Shattering the Mirror Chapter 31

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Authors note: This last chapter is being published without being Betad. So any mistakes are mine and not the work of those that have worked as Beta readers for this story.

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Last time:

Each had once been a mutants or wizards and witches, but now they were closer to inferni than living creatures. Through his spellwork, each retained its abilities but their minds were broken things controlled by the ring he wore on his hand.

He had hoped to make more, but these would have to suffice thought Voldemort as he smiled coldly at the sight of his abominations looking up at their master for orders.

"Soon they shall know fear once Hogwarts is mine I will have what I need to wrest control from those weak fools in the Ministry," he looked down at the things that his magic had twisted and remade. "And you shall be my vanguard."

Chapter 31

Marauders Base – North Queensland

Luna awoke to see one of her 'sisters' sitting on the edge of her bed.

"Ah, sorry didn't mean to wake you…I'm just a bit tired right now."

"That's fine, are you okay?"

The other Luna smiled sadly, "No…no, I'm not okay, but I'm recovering."

The other Luna did look tired and worn out, "Can I ask what happened?"

"We beat Voldemort, but we took too long. In the end, it took thousands of lives to bring him down."

Luna raised an eyebrow, "And we want to fix that?"

"Only we can fix it, we'll have a chance but there will be a price. I've looked at every possibility I can find, looking at every point we can intervene."

"You found something?"

"Yes, I have. A spell that will bind his power for a few moments but there will be a cost that I'm not sure you want to pay."

Luna studied her counterpart seeing the sadness in her eyes and took a deep breath, "Tell me what we can do."

oOoOo

Thames House

Deputy Commissioner Edward Streven and Police Commissioner David Coleman were growing used to the commute to Thames house. Once again a military officer met them and escorted them to a meeting room.

Smyth nodded to the two policemen, "Thank you for coming. That will be all Lieutenant Commander."

Once the door was gently pulled closed Smyth handed both men folders, "Our analysts have been working overtime going through what we managed to get from the Louth operation. It looks like we have enough to hit any of three different targets with a reasonable amount of confidence. Once we have our next locations we will, of course, liaise with your people."

"Will we see any of those captured going before the courts?" asked Coleman.

Smyth nodded without hesitation, "Once news of their arrest doesn't compromise further missions we will hand their files straight to you. I suspect that we may want an official trial rather than a military tribunal."

Streven frowned as he read through the information. "We've not had the best luck putting terrorists in front of a judge."

Smyth gave the two policemen a cold smile, "We will make the case airtight. They will not be walking away."

Coleman tucked his file into his briefcase, "Thank you, Geoffrey, please keep us informed."

oOoOo

The Ministry of Magic – London

"It is a pleasure to see you again Minister."

Pius Thicknesse gave the Senior French Auror a polite smile as he shook first his hand and then his subordinates. "I cannot adequately express our thanks to your people."

Senior Auror Thierry Le Roux looked over at his second, Ruth Lydsey who gave him a small nod before replying. "I think Minister that I can speak for all our people when I say that we are ready for action. I think we can leave the politics for later."

Thicknesse sighed and nodded, "I think you are right…there are more important things we need to discuss."

Lydsey gave the Minister a respectful nod in reply before asking the question the French Aurors had been wondering since arriving, "Will our Irish colleagues being joining us?"

"They have already arrived Madame Lydsey, ah in fact we could sit in on their briefing if you wish. I did have one scheduled for you later if you prefer."

Le Roux nodded, "Now would be excellent Minister."

oOoOo

Multi-Service Response Team – UK

The intelligence officers delivered their briefing and with that the team started work. Given the time-sensitive nature of their intelligence they had to move quickly. Indeed more quickly than most of them were used to.

A second and third operation in as many days was pushing it from a planning point of view but if they wanted any chance of a successful mission they needed to move fast and they needed to hit simultaneously to stop any chance of a warning going out.

The strike team was to be supported by Captain Britain and his Excalibur team. The second raid, however, was being conducted by another team under the control of Thames House. It was unusual enough to raise a few eyebrows although with simultaneous raids a second team made sense.

oOoOo

Michael Hayes, Harry, Hannah and Severus listened to the voice of Geoffrey Smyth as he outlined the upcoming move against the Death Eaters.

"So you want us to hit one of the targets?" asked Hannah.

"The strike team is going to hit the larger target; it needs more boots on the ground. I need you to hit the harder target."

"Are your sure about the numbers?" asked Harry.

"As reasonably confident as we can be given how we got the intelligence," replied Smyth.

Snape frowned as he considered the names that had been given, "Some of these people will be dangerous once we corner them. They'll fight to the end so I don't think prisoners are an option here unless we get very lucky."

Smyth was silent for a moment before replying, "Understood Severus."

Harry looked to Hannah who nodded followed by Hayes and Snape. "Right we are in."

"How soon can you get to London? We have some of the architectural plans and some more detailed intelligence that we need to walk you through."

"Give us an hour or two and then we'll get Luna to bring us."

"Thank you Harry, I will see you then."

oOoOo

The marauders along with Michael Hayes and his men, Snape and Deathstryke were fully armed and armoured when Luna dropped them all in the main meeting room of Thames house.

Geoffrey Smyth shook his head as his heart rate returned to normal, "Ahh…perhaps a little warning next time Miss Lovegood."

"Sorry," apologised Luna.

"Quite all right, I have the briefing information so we might as well start."

The Marauders gathered around the large table where maps, diagrams and photos were soon laid out.

"As you can see this group has managed to create an impressive number of defences. The building is old but from what we can establish apparent it is still in good repair. We managed to get a reasonably detailed floor plan for the main areas but our source had only been there once and that was around the time it was established so the internal layout may have changed. According to his memories there are between six and nine senior Death Eaters living there when they are not overseeing the junior Death Eaters or the foreign mercenaries Voldemort seem to be favouring."

"He can't have that many senior Death Eaters left can he?" asked Lavender.

Snape considered the list of names on the table, "No, probably not. These are people promoted to replace those that fell. Given some of the names here were recruits six months ago…well it shows why he's using so many mercenaries."

Smyth considered the list, "So why hasn't he changes his operational patterns? I mean given his loses surely he would consider some changes."

Snape shrugged as his expression turned sour. "He is unstable. Brilliant and a powerful wizard but he has always been obsessive and extremely arrogant. He is sure that he's going to win."

"Why would they stay? I mean given what you are saying…"

"Power, the belief that their own desires will be granted. By the time they realise what the Dark Lord is, well it's either too late or they no longer care," explained Snape.

Harry studied the layout again mentally envisioning the layout and possible assault options, "I don't like the odds of taking on either entrance. If they react quickly they have us caught in the open. The upstairs balcony gives them a nice tactical advantage as well."

"What about the roof?" asked Hannah. "There are skylights we could be in the living areas before they knew it."

Hayes nodded as he scrutinized the images, "That's a good idea Flame, what about a distraction? We send a team through the skylights while the distraction team hit's both doors."

Smyth studied the layout and the aerial photo of the building comparing even though his analysts had already done so. You never knew when you would spot something new. "The door team would have good cover for the approach. Could you get to the roof unaided?."

Harry looked over at Luna, "Luna?"

"Easy," replied Luna.

"When is the other raid kicking off?" asked Deathstryke.

"Three hours."

oOoOo

Bedfordshire - England

The Death Eater safe house had once been the grand country estate of a minor noble before the family fell in to debt and the majority of the estate was sold off. The manor house and many of the out buildings were still standing and the dilapidated buildings had been playing host to almost a dozen Death Eaters and a large group of mercenaries mainly from Eastern Europe and South America.

The group was one of two safe houses harbouring what was left of the Dark Lord's followers (not that any of the Death Eaters knew just how few senior Death Eaters were left). They had been ordered to prepare an attack on the Ministry of Magic. A glorious prospect and one that, if successful would see them rewarded handsomely.

The first inkling that anything was wrong was when a loud crashing noise like a huge sheet of glass being shattered announced that the wards had fallen.

"The wards are down, get ready to take as many down as you can," ordered Reginald Fern, the senior Death Eater as he fired a blasting hex out the window. "The ministry will fall toni..."

SPLAT

Fern's head exploded as a SAS snipper picked him off.

The remaining Death Eater and his three hired thugs quickly realised that they were in trouble as their spell fire attracted return fire, both magical and mundane.

Outside Major Peter Faulks cursed under his breath before addressing his men over his tactical radio, "This is Salamander one, looks like they want a fight. We've blocked any magical escape routes so let's prepare plan Beta two."

"Acknowledged," came the reply.

"I would like to speak to them Major," said Captain Britain from behind the Major. The military lead for the mission nodded.

"Sir," acknowledged Faulks as he gestured to the man at his side then at the superhero.

The soldier, a muggle born wizard gestured with his wand casting a voice projection charm.

"We have you surrounded and have blocked any form of magical travel. If you surrender you will not be harmed."

The answer was a flash of green light directed at the Captain. Before it could hit him it struck an invisible barrier. Captain Britain nodded his thanks to his Excalibur team mate Cerise whose hands were raised as she maintained her force shield. "You have two minutes to comply."

Another burst of spells lashed out at the SAS men.

Captain Britain gestured to the wizard who removed the spell. "I suspect that we will have to force matters Major."

oOoOo

The house was as the images had shown it and the lights were on. Twenty minutes before the raid was to begin plain clothes police quietly evacuated the neighbours before setting up road blocks to decrease the chance of innocent bystanders wandering in. As they worked the SAS team led by Michael Hayes prepared for an assault on the main door. Harry had added Snape and Deathstryke to Michael's team in case magical or mutant 'firepower' was needed.

"Go," ordered Harry as Luna teleported them to the roof. At the same time flash bangs were thrown through the window by the door.

Harry and Hannah were the first through the skylight landing on the floor in what was the main upstairs hallway. Seeing nothing they stepped sideways allowing Luna and Lavender to drop to the floor beside them. The sounds of gunfire and yelling indicated the other part of their team was doing their job.

"Room by room," ordered Harry.

Working as a team Harry opened a door with Hannah and Lavender covering him. Luna kept watch for potential threats from outside the room.

"Clear, next door."

The next room was empty as well as was the last 'bedroom' room and the bathroom.

"Downstairs, Fury, Oracle cover us."

Moving quietly but quickly they moved to the stairwell only to see Michael Hayes and Snape looking up at them. Hayes gave the hand signal for all clear.

"Where are they then?" asked Hannah.

oOoOo

Captain Britain kicked in the door as two SAS troopers did the same on the rear door.

A figure was turning toward him raising a wand but was too slow for the British Superhero. With a punch the wizard was down and out. A second figure raised his hands dropping his wand.

"I surrender."

Captain Britain frowned hearing the man's accent, German or at least a German speaker.

"Where are the others?" he asked as a SAS trooper covered a second man who used zip ties to secure their prisoners hands before giving him a thorough search.

"Dieter is dead and the two English are dead as well."

Captain Britain shared a look with the Major both thinking the same thing.

'Where were they?'

oOoOo

Ministry of Magic The atrium Level 8

A loud klaxon sounded announcing a portkey being used. Not an unusual sound in the ministry atrium but given the current warnings the two British Aurors moved toward the portkey arrival point. It was most likely a ministry worker…seconds later all hell broke loose.

The Aurors on duty in the Ministry entrance foyer were confronted with dozens or black robed figures appearing, apparently by portkey. Both immediately snapped the wooden disks they held sounding the alarm.

The first Auror managed to get off a spell as well before both were cut down by a hail of spell fire.

Arnold Campbell checked the atrium for any sign that more Aurors were present but saw nothing. Good our information was correct. "We have an hour, at most before the dark Lord arrives. Our orders are to secure the Ministry. Brookes you take your squad to secure the Ministerial level. I'll take the MLE."

Campbell knew what his punishment would be if he failed his Lord so he intended to follow his orders to the letter.

oOoOo

Thames House

"Captain Britain, sir," reported an aide.

Geoffrey Smyth took the secure radio with a frown; the call had come in quickly, "Smyth here."

"Bad news Geoffrey," our targets have already moved out. Major Faulks is still questioning our prisoner but he appears to be little more than hired muscle."

"I see, any civilian prisoners captain?"

"None here, our prisoner who is apparently a German national, claims they were taken a day ago. He doesn't know where."

"So bad timing, we can hopefully…"

"Hold on a moment GeoffreyMajor Faulks believes that there may be an attack on the Ministry of Magic underway as we speak."

Smyth looked up at the mission clock and noted the time; it hadn't taken long for the mission to go to hell. "I'll try and confirm Captain, get back here as soon as you can; I suspect that we are going to need you."

Handing the radio back to his aide he turned to another aide, "James please get Beatrice Hampton on the phone. Commander, contact Hayes and get a mission check."

Smyth straightened and squared his shoulders. Things we escalating and if the Ministry of Magic was under attack then he needed to inform the Prime Minister and he would have to inform Her Majesty.

"Alice, please get me the Prime minister's residence."

oOoOo

The Marauders and their team mates appeared in the Thames House conference room amid a scene of controlled chaos. Standing in the centre of it was Geoffrey Smyth.

"What happened?" asked Smyth without preamble.

"There were only two wizards in the house and only one was a Death Eater, well only one had the dark mark," replied Hannah.

Smyth frowned, "I see, much the same as the other team. We can debrief later, right now we have another problem. It looks like we might know where they are and if we are right then the Ministry of Magic is under attack."

The Marauders exchanged glances.

"I know you have no reason to help the Ministry but I'm going to ask anyway."

Harry felt his nail extend into talons as he began to transform as anger surged through him. His words as he spoke were almost a hiss, "You want us to save the ministry?"

"No I want you to help me save lives, some of whom are wizards."

"No, we won't," ground out Hannah through clenched teeth as she glared at Smyth.

Smyth didn't back down, "I understand Hannah, as much as anyone who didn't live through what you had to. But this is bigger than you, bigger than me. This is about trying to preserve lives. If we don't stop Voldemort then innocent people are going to die. If we can't stop him now then we will, inevitably be facing him across a battlefield later."

"I don't give a shit," retorted Hannah.

"Hannah," Harry warned as he laid a hand on her shoulder before turning his attention back to Smyth. "We understand Voldemort has to be stopped but from our viewpoint the ministry being pulled down is one of our objectives."

"I think we need to do this," offered Luna. "Thicknesse is saying he wants to do the right thing, maybe he does but if we want mutants to be treated like citizens of magical Britain then we need to do this." Luna could almost feel the anger rolling off Harry, Hannah and Lavender. "I've seen what they've done and I'm not saying forgive or forget but I won't condemn more mutants to dealing with a mutant hating Ministry or worse Voldemort. This is a chance to make a difference for our people."

Harry seethed as he listened to Luna he wanted the ministry to burn…but if Luna was right and he condemned more mutants to what he had endured then he didn't really have a choice.

"Damn it…we'll do it but if they turn on us I'll tear the ministry down myself."

Michael Hayes who had been watched with a worried expression breathed a small sigh of relief. "We'll need more people and people who know the ministry."

"I'll call everyone in," acknowledged Harry.

Smyth began his own preparations dialling a number from memory, "Commissioner Coleman we have a developing situation…"

oOoOo

Ministry of Magic – Level 2 Auror Headquarters

"We have Death Eaters in the atrium," shouted an Irish Auror as several loud explosions sounded in the distance. "It looks like they are making a push in this direction."

Before answering Rudyard Collins pulled on his dragonhide vest before checking his back up wand was in its holster. "Right we need to get everyone who doesn't need to be here out of the way." Spotting a familiar face he waved a British Auror over. "Take two men and let the Minister know the ministry is under attack. We'll be working to stop them getting out of the atrium and securing the other levels."

"Auror Collins, I'm looking for Auror Collins."

Rudyard turned to see Beatrice Hampton, "I'm afraid this level isn't safe Miss Hampton."

"I have a message from Thames House, the muggle military and police are aware we are under attack and are sending reinforcements."

Rudyard didn't know what to say to that but that didn't stop him calling his Auror back, "Stan make sure Miss Hampton gets to the Minister."

Another loud explosion followed and the sound of French Aurors calling out spells in their native tongue followed.

oOoOo

Pius Thicknesse was already organising his own people, "Right well it's bloody obvious that we've got some uninvited guests. Anthony can you please see who else is on this level. Adelle can you get a message to Auror command and find out what is happening."

"Minister?"

Thicknesse turned to see three Aurors and Beatrice Hampton, "Yes?"

Stan reported to the minister who nodded as he silently thanked Merlin for Rudyard Collins. When the Auror finished he turned his attention to Miss Hampton.

"Minister, Geoffrey Smyth contacted me; it would appear that we have reinforcements on the way." She held up a muggle radio. "I believe that you should be able to contact him on this."

Thicknesse stared at the Ministry worker come Muggle Government agent. "Explain to me how it works Miss Hampton."

oOoOo

Outside the Ministry of Magic – Maiden Lane Entrance

"We have officers in an area car and an incident response vehicle clearing the area right now and barricades are on their way, "explained the Metropolitan Police Sergeant who was, temporarily the officer in charge of the scene. "The Chief Superintendent is on the way as well sir."

Commander Hamilton gave the Police man a grateful nod, "Excellent, thank you Sergeant, we have some specialists on their way to deal with the situation until then it might be wise to keep our distance."

Sergeant Peirce's attention shifted slightly as he spotted a Senior Uniformed police officer, "Ah Sir, the Chief Superintendent has just arrived."

"We'll hopefully he's been briefed in," offered Hamilton with a wry smile. He was not looking forward to explaining the situation to someone not in the know.

Chief Superintendent Margret O'Donnell spotted Peirce and the man in a suit that she hoped was the representative from Thames House given his military bearing. "Sergeant," she gave Peirce a nod. "And would you be Thomas Hamilton?"

"Yes I am Ma'am. Have you been briefed in?" asked Hamilton.

"Yes, Commander I have. I understand that we have some contact from within the building?"

"Yes Ma'am, The minister has an encrypted military radio. I believe Thames House has been talking to him, getting a sitrep."

"Very good, and what are we facing Commander, do we need to expand our safe zone?"

"Apparently between eighteen and twenty-four armed terrorists who are attempting to secure the location. Right now there are nineteen armed friendlies on sight."

Peirce swore softly when he heard the word terrorist and grabbed a Senior Constable who was overseeing the barriers being unloaded. "We've got armed men in the building, spread the word on the quiet and make damn sure everyone knows." The Met Police had been caught flat footed by terrorists in the past and there was now an institutional awareness at all levels of the potential dangers.

As he finished speaking to the junior man there was a muted flash of light and an odd noise. When he turned back there was a group dressed in military uniforms gathering around Commander Hamilton and Chief Superintendent O'Donnell.

"Where the hell did they come from?" he muttered before his attention was pulled away to where a van pulled up and six uniformed officers climbed out.

O'Donnell had been a police woman for eighteen years and seen a lot of odd things. She'd met Captain Britain and as a young PC worked a very special case with Union Jack. However a special operations team that appeared to contain at least three teenagers, one of whom was obviously a mutant was something new.

Before she could frame up any questions there was a second flash of light and a much larger group appeared along with a fourth teenager.

"We need to get moving," said one of the teenagers, the mutant with the scar on his face and claws, actually more like talons, she noted. "I have no idea how bad this is going to get but it would be a good idea to clear the area."

"We already have that underway," reported O'Donnell.

The mutant nodded and turned to a middle aged man who looked uncomfortable in his black combat gear. "Arthur you know the building what is our best bet?"

"The phone box would be the easiest but from what we heard the atrium is most likely still being held by Death Eaters. There are some charmed windows," he looked around before pointing out a window two stories up. "That one I think but Ha…sorry I mean Raptor we would need to bring down the wards to use them."

"I could do it," added Bill Weasley, "But it will take time."

Luna jumped in, "I've been to the minister's secretary's office and wards won't stop me."

Harry shared a look with Hannah who was still looking far from happy. He could understand her thought about it for a few moments. There were not a lot of options if they didn't want the Death Eaters digging in, "Right get word to the minister, we are going in."

oOoOo

Pius Thicknesse listened to his radio intently before he gestured for his people to move outside his office. It was not an issue of trust concerning his new Muggle allies, but Potter and his people were a wild card. It was worrying that one of the mutants had the ability to bypass the Ministries wards but right now he'd take any help he could get. Still to be safe he kept his wand in hand.

The group that arrived were dressed as muggle soldiers and carried a mix of firearms and wands. He recognised Potter and Arthur Weasley; the red heads were probably Weasleys as well. Before he could study the group any further they were moving forward.

"Minister," offered Arthur Weasley.

"Arthur, I was wondering where you ended up," seeing the flat, unfriendly looks he quickly qualified his words. "You were always a good department head Arthur and given events I don't blame you in the least for getting to safety. I'll speeches for later right now we have twenty-four armed wizards, most likely Death Eaters in the atrium. They tried to get to the upper levels but our onsite Aurors held them back. The trouble is we can't get reinforcements in until our guests are dealt with. We could drop the wards but that would allow them to flee or bring in their own reinforcements." Thicknesse's expression hardened, "Personally I want this lot dealt with."

Arthur nodded in acknowledgement as he reminded himself that Pius Thicknesse had once been a well-respected Auror himself. "Minister, it might be best if you spoke with Harry, it's his team."

Thicknesse turned to Potter who was watching him impassively.

"As I said Harry let's save the speeches until later, given the situation I need to ask if you are willing to help us secure the ministry?"

Harry nodded, "That's why we are here."

Thicknesse looked like he wanted to say more but instead he turned to a uniformed Auror. "We have locked down the lifts and magical transport so we both will have to use the stairs. If we move quickly we'll hopefully catch the bastards unawares." Pointing to a map on the wall he showed the stairs leading down and where the Death Eaters were situated. "Even if one of them knows the building, most workers forget about the old stairs."

Thicknesse locked over the map taking a moment to re-familiarizing himself with the layout of the stair wells. "So we have two staircases?"

Collins nodded, "Yes and I've stationed Aurors at both entrances on level seven. At the moment they are only trying to force their way on to the grand stairs. We are holding but if I lose any more people I won't have the numbers to hold both."

"So we could catch them at unawares," asked Thicknesse.

"I hope so, if we move quickly enough," replied Collins.

"So if we split into two groups we can reinforce the main stairs and attack them from the others?" asked Harry.

Thicknesse looked at Collins who nodded, "It sounds like a workable plan Mister Potter."

"Then we'll take the back stairs while you reinforce your Aurors. You keep them tied up and we'll take them out. That is of course if we can use deadly force, most of our weapons are not designed to stun."

Thicknesse paused as he quickly thought through his options. Could he give the order, should he give it? Once he did then he was committed. He took a deep breath, "Do what you have to Mister Potter."

Harry nodded.

"We need to catch at least one of them," added Fred Weasley whose expression showed none of his usual humour. "If we can get one of them with a portkey I have a little surprise for them and whoever is at home."

"We'll do our best Fred," replied Lavender.

"Right, let's go," ordered Harry. "We'll get in to position and then signal you that we are ready. Michael can you and your boys support the Aurors?." Harry lowered his voice, "I'm not sure I trust the ministry but regardless they need help."

"Right-o Raptor," acknowledged Hayes with a cold smile.

"Deathstryke you and Severus are with me. Arthur you and the boys stay back with Michael and speak up if you notice anything. Minister I suggest that you might want to secure the MLE offices."

Thicknesse had to agree. The MLE offices were where the wards were controlled from and it was one of the most defensible locations in the ministry building.

"Oh and keep the radio on Minister," explained Hayes. "We'll be giving updates on it."

"I'll send a runner with you anyway, just so my lads know to leave you to it," said Collins.

The stairwell was old but clean and it was deserted save for two Aurors who were guarding the closed door.

"Nothing, so far anyway, this door comes out just behind the fountain, so be careful or some Death Eater might pick you off as you open it if they are looking this way." The Auror shook his head in frustration. "As things stand there is no way they will get off the floor now. If we had ten more trained Aurors we've have had them already."

"No sign of Voldemort?" asked Harry who ignored the shudder and pained look on Aurors face.

"No," nothing."

"That's odd, I mean I would think he'd want to be here for his victory, wouldn't he?" asked Lavender.

Snape frowned as he fingered his wand, "That's actually a very good question."

Harry glanced at Luna who shook her head, okay so no Luna's helping us out this time. Why wouldn't Voldemort be here? If these were some of his last marked supporters why risk them if he wasn't here to lend the 'fire power'? He was their big hitter after all.

Hannah stiffened as she realised what might be happening, "It's another decoy, and he's somewhere else."

Harry swore softly before addressing the others, "I fear you may be right. It certainly explains why we've not seen him. If this is a feint…bloody hell he could be anywhere! Feint or not we need to deal with this lot first."

oOoOo

"Auror Collins!" called a voice from down the corridor as Collins and his remaining Aurors headed down the stairs.

A young Auror ran up holding a message, "Sir we just got an owl from a wizard in Kent, he claims his daughter just came through the floo badly injured."

Collins and Thicknesse moved over to the messenger, "And?"

"Ah…Minister, sorry sir…his daughter sir she's a student at Hogwarts."

oOoOo

Voldemort laughed as his mutant inferni tore through Hogwarts. The schools much publicised wards had easily been bypassed courtesy of one of his newest weapons. The accumulated learning and secrets of a thousand years were at his fingertips.

There seemed to be only a few hold outs, older students or teachers no doubt but they would soon perish and then they too would serve to swell the ranks of his inferni army.

oOoOo

Collin's conjured a map of the Ministry on to the wall, "We need to finish this, quickly."

Arthur Weasley pointed to a map on the wall," Harry won't muck around and his team and weapons are very effective, even more so now they've integrated magic and muggle firearms. If his plan works it will be over pretty quickly."

Thicknesse thought about what he heard about Potter and his group and nodded, "Right then we can more to support Hogwarts."

oOoOo

Ministry Atrium

The first mistake the Death Eaters made was to focus their attention on the areas they thought posed the greatest threat. This left large sections of the atrium out of their line of sight.

The second mistake was their belief that their mission only pitted them against wizards.

Within minutes the marauders had the Death Eaters covered.

"Oracle, Severus you take out the two near the wall of floo's. Try and take them alive if you can. The rest of us will hit the centre group. Target from the left and number off."

The Marauders each chose a target and quietly reported once they had theirs covered. As they did Oracle and Snape lined their targets up with their wands.

"Right stunners then flash bangs," ordered Harry as he pulled the pin on his flash bang noting that the others did the same. "On a three count…. one, two, three!"

There were two flashes of red light just as the others through a half dozen 'noise makers" toward the Death Eaters.

The four second fuses gave just enough time for everyone to cover their ears and shut their eyes. It also gave the Death Eaters time to realise that something was wrong. Not that it helped very much as their alarmed yells were drowned out by explosions of almost painful noise and bursts of bright blinding light.

Before the echoes had died away the Marauders were up and re-acquiring their targets.

oOoOo

Somehow Jorgen White-Carrow had managed to get a duellers shield up to protect himself from whatever had just hit them. Deafened he quickly moved sideways just as one of his stunned looking comrades dropped as a spray of blood exited the back of his head.

'What was happening?'

Desperate to avoid the fate of the Death Eaters falling all around him he moved backwards as he maintained his shield spell. There were muggle weapons being used…so his shield should hold as long as he kept if faced toward his attackers. Raising his hand to touch his portkey he suddenly felt a burst of pain and then nothing.

He never saw the bullet that killed him or the SAS soldier who fired it from the landing above.

oOoOo

Three minutes, all this only took three minutes from start to finish. Pius Thicknesse could barely take it in. Potter and his muggle allies had killed all but two of the Death Eaters without a single casualty!

"Dear Merlin," he whispered to himself as he looked over the body of a Death Eater who was missing the front of his head.

"It's not pretty is it?" said Arthur Weasley as he appeared followed by his sons.

Thicknesse shook his head, "No. no it isn't but then again I hadn't expected it to be. So you are with Potter?"

Arthur was about to reply when the Minister cut him off with a raised hand, "I'm not fishing Arthur. I am just asking because I think I could use some good, decent men back in the ministry once all this is over."

"Dad we've got one," crowed Fred as he held up a coin on a chain. "Ha now we've got the bastards! One of this sorry lot tells me that this was used from their base in Scotland, some Purebloods manor house."

Thicknesse raised an eyebrow in enquiry as Collins and Potter joined them.

"Reverse engineered portkey bomb," explained George with a grin.

"We are going to send old snake face a present," added Fred.

Collins managed to keep the shock off his face, "Are you saying you've managed to find a way to track a portkey destination?"

George grinned, "Yes, brilliant hey?"

"I…I didn't think that was possible."

"I won't say it was easy but it does work, hey catch Fred," said George as he threw his brother four silvery rods.

"Ta George," Fred attached the silver rods to the portkey with a sticking charm. "We are going to give them back their portkey with a little present." He mumbled out a long chant before taping the portkey which disappeared, "And Viola!"

"What….hang on where did it go?" asked Collins.

"Back to wherever they left from," replied Fred with a shrug. "Hopefully it arrived at Snakey's location."

Harry grinned at the image but his grin faded as he realised that both Thicknesse and Collins still looked rather worried.

Thicknesse cleared his throat, "We've had a report, via owl that there may have been an incident at Hogwarts."

oOoOo

Hogwarts – Great Hall

How deliciously right that his road to supremacy should finally begin here where it all started, Hogwarts.

His gaze turned to the tabletop where several broken artefacts lay strewn. They had been his first foray in to power and immortality but they had ultimately been a failure. Oh they had allowed him to regain a physical form after that wretched Potter woman had used an old piece of protective magic against him and destroyed his original body. In that at least he had succeeded but the cost had been high. His power had been split apart, trapped in his horcrux. They were a constant drain on his magic, parasites that weakened him. Now that they were gone he felt whole again, his magic once more flowed as it had at the height of his power. And it felt good. Power coursed through his veins. He had laughed allowed when he realised that he finally had a fully functioning body. He could finally indulge in something that he had long since been denied. The screams of the witch that had been bought to him for his use had been like music in is ears.

Dumbledore had been a genius but still a fool. He had manipulated and lied in his attempts to crystallise his own legend…had the 'leader of the light' also delved in to forbidden magic seeking immortality…perhaps he had but ultimately he had failed. Potter had turned against his mentor. The faithful dog had bitten the hand that held its leash.

Voldemort smiled as he imagined Albus at the moment he realised his grand plan to use Potter had failed. Potter the mutant wizard had eluded his former controller; he had eluded the Death Eaters that sought him out. It had his first glimpse of the potential of mutants, how potent a weapon they might be.

His mortal servants had seemingly been unable to carry out his plans so he had looked elsewhere. This moment of clarity had been the turning point.

These wonderful weapons had allowed him to take Hogwarts in one day. The castle was now his and it would remain his.

The inferni that formed his new army had barely suffered any losses and those that had been destroyed would soon be replaced. Soon they would be ready to move against Hogsmeade. Securing the wizarding town and expanding the ranks of his inferni once more.

Once that was done he could begin work on the second part of his plan; building a newer, stronger and far more resilient body.

Yes these mutants were useful indeed.

oOoOo

Hogsmeade

Gerwin Stoat cursed as he realised he was facing an inferni. As a former MLE investigator and prosecutor he had survived the war against He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named and lived to retire. Although if there were more cursed inferni about then…well he might not be enjoying his retirement for much longer.

He cast a fire hex setting the cursed thing alight before blasting it with the most powerful blasting hex he knew. Thankfully it stayed down here it had landed as the magical fire consumer it's still thrashing form.

"Gerwin?"

Jonathon Moon, the farmer who supplied a lot of the towns milk appeared out of the trees with his own wand in hand. "What in Merlin's name is going on?"

"Inferni," warned Gerwin.

"Inferni…what?"

"I just killed a bloody inferni," Gerwin took a deep breath. "Get Zoe and Liam and everyone else you know out of bed and armed. If there are more of them…."

"R…right damned Dark Wizards."

Gerwin cast his Patronus, a small beagle and sent it off to the small Auror station in town. There were two Aurors posted there who would be able to call for assistance. Turning to Jonathon he saw the other man's face pale as more shambling figures appeared.

oOoOo

Ministry of Magic

"Minister, we have reports coming in of an attack on Hogsmeade by inferni!"

"Gods," whispered Collins.

Thicknesse took a deep breath, "Rudyard, find the Senior Aurors for the French and the Irish. We need people in Hogsmeade and at Hogwarts now."

"Minister, we don't have the people to guard the ministry and defend Hogsmeade and Hogwarts," complained one of the older Aurors.

"Bugger the ministry building we need to get to Hogsmeade! Leave a damned skeleton crew here and get people moving," ordered Thicknesse. He looked around and spotted Potter and Arthur Weasley. "Potter, Weasley we've got word of inferni in Hogsmeade and an attack on Hogwarts…we could use your help."

Harry's expression hardened, "The students?"

"We don't know but I have to assume the worst," answered Thicknesse.

Collins was trying to not make it obvious but he was keeping a close eye on Potter's people, considering that they were all still armed to the teeth. As he observed them he could see the blonde girl, Abbott doing the same with the Aurors.

Harry knew what Smyth would want and while he was no fan of the Ministry he didn't want innocents to suffer to see it burn, "We can scout Hogwarts while you deal with the town. Once you are free there make for Hogwarts."

"Harry the lad's and I need to re-arm and resupply if you want us along," warned Hayes.

Harry considered the effectiveness of modern weapons and magic combined, "I think you had better stay with the Aurors. Deathstryke, Severus you go with them as well they will need help if they have inferni to deal with," he glanced at Hannah who shook her head non-verbally making it clear that she was staying with him. "Oracle can get you to where you need to go."

Hayes was pulled aside by one of his men, "Actually there appears to be no need Raptor, we have a full reload waiting outside courtesy of Thames House."

"Oracle can you get us to Hogwarts?" asked Hannah.

"Harry," Harry caught the satchel from Hayes. "That's our spare clips and four flash-bangs."

"Right, thanks."

"Be careful, all of you. We'll be there with some help as soon as we can."

oOoOo

Ravenclaw Study Room – Ravenclaw Tower Hogwarts

The small room lined with book cases was deserted and had overturned chairs.

"It looks like they left in a hurry," said Hannah.

"There is blood here as well as some charring by the window," reported Luna.

"Right so something has happened here, doubt it's good. Game faces people," said Lavender causing her three companions to give her odd looks.

"Game faces?" asked Hannah.

Lavender blushed, "Err I saw it on television with Renee…I thought it sounded cool."

Harry grinned, "I like it."

"You would," mumbled Luna.

"Right we need to find out if Voldemort is here or not and where the students are," stated Harry.

Luna shook her head, "I don't know if there are any Luna's that have…oh hello Luna."

The new Luna was dressed in what appeared to be red dragon leather with a red hooded robe over the top and was holding a staff that ended in a claw clutching a glowing red crystal.

"The remaining students are hiding in the forbidden forest and right now Voldie's in the great hall with only a few of his new toys…I suggest you get moving because once he realises there is fighting in Hogsmeade he'll head there. You don't want to let that happen."

"Thanks Luna, oh and nice outfit," replied Luna.

"You caught me on role playing night," Luna's voice dropped to a whisper. "I am Luna of the red robes."

Not even Luna knew what to say to that.

The Luna in red suddenly turned serious as she turned her attention to her dimensional twin. "Are you sure you want to do this?"

Luna nodded.

"Then good luck sister," replied Luna as she raised her staff and disappeared in a flash of red light.

Hannah grinned at her team mates, "You know I am surprised that I am surprised anymore."

Harry smiled but sobered as he once more saw the blood on the floor, "So this is it then. Weapons check."

Hannah didn't reply save to check her weapons and nod, followed by Luna and Lavender.

"Right, Luna can you get us to the room just behind the teachers table?"

"I can," confirmed Luna.

"As one we throw all the flash bangs we have then I we hit him hard with everything we have. Fury, Flame everything. I'll engage Voldemort if he's still going Oracle you keep at him. If his flunkies are a problem then Oracle switch fire to them." Harry tossed Luna his gun. "It's got a full clip."

Hannah pulled Harry in for a kiss that lasted far too short a time, "Be careful love."

"I will," Harry transformed in to his winged form letting his talons extend as he took out two flash bangs. "Hit them hard guys, let's do this right."

oOoOo

Hogsmeade

The residents of Hogsmeade were in a state of panic as the line of defenders trying to hold back the approaching inferni was overrun by Voldemorts mutant inferni.

One inferni simply caught a screaming wizard and tore him in half while another released a bolt of sickly yellow light that left a witch a dried out husk. Another teleported behind another defender and snapped the wizards neck.

Rosmerta O'Brien cast the strongest fire based curse she knew directly into the face of one of the approaching inferni only to have it seeming catch the spell and hurl it back at her. Before she could react someone pulled her to the side.

"Careful there Rosie," said Bill Weasley as he pulled her behind a building.

"Bill?"

Bill Weasley looked the older witch over seeing that beside a torn shirt she appeared unharmed. "I'm here with the Aurors and a few reinforcements. Probably best you get to the well; they are port keying people out of here."

"Bugger that William," she growled out and brandished her wand. "I've lived here all my sodding life. I am not running out now."

Bill smiled, "As a student I always had a crush on you Rosie."

Whatever else he was going to say was lost amid the sounds of magical battle and muggle gun fire. "Well then Madam Rosmerta, shall we?"

They leapt out from behind the building just in time to see Captain Britain slam an inferni into the ground where an Auror set it on fire.

Rosmerta look on in a state of confusion, "What…who?"

"We brought some friends," explained Bill as a woman with long black hair made a slashing gesture at a inferni blasting it backwards.

"Rose behind you," warned…was it Charlie Weasley?

The young woman spun and sent a blasting hex at another inferni as a second inferni shot what appeared to be lightning at an Auror.

Rosmerta cast a blasting hex of her own at the inferni as the battle for Hogsmeade intensified.

oOoOo

Hogwarts

Harry gestured to the door as he raised three fingers. He counted silently to three and as Luna kicked the door open he threw them through the door followed by Hannah and Lavender.

"Go," he ordered as he charged through the door ignoring the stream of fire and the scything blue light that shot past him.

Harry slammed into a tall figure in a black cloak sending both of them to the floor. Harry quickly rolled to his feet and leapt back at the rising figure that jerked as bullets struck it in the back sending it stumbling in to a stream of almost liquid fire.

Harry raised his hand when something struck him in the back sending him crashing into the heavy teachers table. Again he rolled to his feet to confront a second figure; no he corrected himself, to confront Voldemort.

Voldemort sent a spell at Harry that looked like purple water but he manager to dance out of its path. Before he could cast again Fury's fire forced Voldemort to disapparate.

"Watch out," warned Luna as Voldemort appeared behind four figures dressed in matching black and green outfits with the black dark mark on their chests.

Flame sent a burst of flame at the group but one of the figures raised its hands and the flames were pushed toward the ceiling.

The four showed no expression, simply standing glassy eyed and staring impassively at the Marauders. The first, a woman with a long scar across her face had clawed hands and a long tail. The second figure was a young man with silvery eyes and odd looking skin that looked almost like snake skin. The third, which had deflected Flame's attack, had glowing red eyes and he had a shaven head. The last one was nearly seven feet tall with corded muscle and pale white skin with colourless eyes.

Voldemort smiled as he studied the four arranged against him, "Ahh Harry Potter and your team mates, how…expected. I have been thinking about you and your fellow mutants so much in fact that I decided to form my own team. Meet my newest servants and the next evolution of inferni. They don't really have names yet but their skills speak for them…in fact let's test them shall we," he pointed at the marauders. "Bring me their heads."

The largest inferni launched itself forward at Raptor as the other three followed.

Raptor spun away from the charging figure but even with his enhanced speed he wasn't quick enough to avoid the punch that sent him flying across the room.

"Burn," screamed Flame as she sent a ball of flame shooting toward the figure that had blocked her attack only for the figure to once again block her attack.

Fury had better luck as the wave of destructive energy she released sent her target flying although it didn't appear to do any other damage.

Oracle disappeared as her attacker reached her reappearing behind her and sending a blasting hex toward her opponent that had no effect save causing him to stumble.

Their training with Wolverine had covered just this situation. When facing an adversary where your powers didn't work, switch.

"Switch targets," ordered Flame.

Fury sent a focused energy strike against the inferni that attacked Oracle and was rewarded when the silver skinned being was blasted apart.

Flame shifted her attack to the figure that was now lifting a stunned Raptor up by his hair. The ball of fire struck the creature in the back setting its clothes on fire and causing it to drop Raptor.

Unfortunately that left one of the inferni free to act. The third inferni rushed forward and lashed out at Fury with her tail striking the blond in her shoulder as she tried to dodge the blow. Hissing the inferni raised its tail again but staggered as Oracle struck it with a blasting hex. The inferni tried to turn and face Oracle before it could its head suddenly blew apart. As it fell Fury's arm's lowered and she slumped to the ground.

Raptor shook off the effects of the attacks and drove his talons in to the chest of the white skinned inferni, capturing it as he drove his other hand into its throat. Normally suck an attack would disable if not kill an opponent but the huge inferni seemed to shrug off the attack that had left gaping holes in its chest and throat as it backhanded Raptor sending him to the floor again.

Oracle raised her wand again but was forced to dive for cover as a killing curse was fired at her by Voldemort.

Flame sent another burst of flame toward Voldemort as Oracle sent a cascade of spell at the inferni by his side blasting it to the floor.

Voldemort apparated again before Flame and Oracle could do attack again.

Taking advantage of his disappearance Flame sent another attack at the white inferni and Oracle followed suit with the most powerful attacking spells she knew. The inferni staggered falling to one knee as Raptor rolled to his feet and pulled one of Fred and George's incendiary grenades from his belt and shoving it into its chest as he pulled the pin and kicked the inferni on to its back.

The blast knocked Raptor off his feet again and reduced the inferni to a burning husk.

Voldemort reappeared lashing out with a spell that struck the floor before apparating away again. The powerful explosion of magic sent the Marauders flying.

When Raptor regained his wits he found himself lying against the stone wall of the great hall. Standing in the centre of the nearly destroyed room was Voldemort.

"A gallant try Harry Potter, much better than your previous attempts. But alas you have failed and this time you won't be walking away Harry."

As Raptor struggled to stand a smile crossed Voldemort's face, "Ah now Harry I can't have you running away, not that you and your little friends can. The spell is called the disruptor. Chinese battle magic in case you are interested." Voldemort gestured and a sword appeared in his hand, with a sinister smile he saluted Raptor and casually walked over to where Flame lay unmoving with her eyes locked on Raptor. Smile growing wider he drove the sword in to Flames stomach pining her to the floor. "Can't have her running away can we Harry?"

Flames eyes still locked on his as rage and fear burned through Raptor. With everything he had he struggled to get his body moving.

Voldemort summoned another sword and kicked Fury on to her side before driving it through her.

He summoned another sword, "Only you and Miss Lovegood left now Harry…now where could she be?"

As Voldemort turned to where Oracle had been she appeared, bloody and battered but still standing, right behind him, stumbling slightly as she took a step forward raising her wand.

Voldemort spun and stabbed at Oracle stabbing her in the side.

Oracle screamed as the sword came out her back. Voldemort twisted the blade viciously before she shocked the dark wizard by grabbing his hand and pulling herself on to the blade almost willingly as she called out a spell.

"Cum victimam meam: Adiuro vos."

Voldemort screamed in pain as Oracle kept a hold of his hand her bloody teeth showing in a smile as she turned to look at Harry.

"We win," whispered Oracle as she and Voldemort disappeared.

Raptor tried to move and kept trying even as the blackness closed in.

oOoOo

Alternate Earth – 2149

Luna slumped to the ground, sliding off Voldemort's sword as the dark wizard staggered backwards.

With a sigh she used nearly the last of her strength forcing herself to her knees as Voldemort staggered toward her.

"You fool girl, your binding spell will only last until you die and then I will be free of you."

"You are done Tom Riddle," send another Luna as she appeared behind Luna.

"Never, the world will be mine."

Luna looked sadly at the other Luna whose blood was staining the snow. "True this world will be yours. In fact my sister sacrificed herself so that she could lower your magical defences for just a moment...just long enough to bring you here."

Voldemort looked around the deserted snow covered street, trying to glean some hint of where he was.

Luna sighed as her sister slumped to the ground and lay unmoving.

"Her spell will break soon and I will be back as strong as ever," hissed Voldemort.

"Yes it will but it will not help you Tom, this is your new kingdom."

Something in her words and demeanour sent a chill through the dark wizard.

"What do you know of what she has done where are we?" he demanded.

Luna laughed and pulled up her shirt showing him a newly healed scar on her abdomen, "I survived being pinned to the floor and helped bring you down Tom…muggles, wizards and mutants pulled your kingdom down in less than three months. Too many good people died to feed your ego so I found another way and Luna helped me."

Voldemort raised his sword and his wand, "What have you done?"

Luna knelt and took Luna's hand, "I gave you a world that suits you."

With that Luna and Oracle disappeared.

Voldemort felt a twinge of fear before sneering at the bloody patch in the snow. His magic was slowly returning. With a practiced turn, he apparated to Hogsmeade to gather his inferni. He staggered as he landed feeling the drain on his magic. He reserves were incredibly low thanks to Lovegood's cursed spell. Looking around he could see that the burned out village was deserted.

With a frown he apparated to the home of a former Death Eater and found the building standing but heavily damaged.

What was going on, with another twist he apparated to a back alley in London.

Here at least were people. Amid the falling snow people could be seen moving around. Muggles no doubt but….there was something wrong.

The figures were corpse like with decomposing bodies.

"Fresh meat at last," hissed a voice behind him.

Turning he saw a figure in stained and rotted leather. A union jack still visible amid the stains as the zombie who had once been Captain Britain lunged forward as Voldemort tried to raise his wand.

oOoOo

Hogsmeade

The response was really starting to ramp up now.

British, French and Irish Aurors were fighting alongside wizarding civilians and non-magical forces led Captain Britain and his Excalibur team mates.

Pius Thicknesse slumped in exhaustion as the inferni were again driven back beyond the outskirts of Hogsmeade. These new inferni had been a horrible shock to the defenders. It was accepted belief that inferni lost all magical abilities. Some of these new inferni, perhaps one in ten seemed to have extraordinary abilities.

The so called Captain Britain had solved the mystery when he suggested that the inferni had once been mutants. If he was honest with himself it was only the arrival of the muggle superheros that had saved the town, turning back the tide of undead.

"Minister, there is something happening," reported Collins as he limped over to where the minister stood.

"Should you be here Rudyard?" asked Thicknesse looking at the Aurors bandaged leg.

"It's alright minister, the bleeding has stopped anyway. The inferni seem to have stopped just outside town. They aren't doing anything, just standing there."

Thicknesse's brow furrowed as he tried to think past the exhaustion he was feeling. It had been a long time since he had used so much magic in so short a time. "Well let's keep at them. Let our allies know we are going to move against them."

"Yes minister."

Thicknesse glanced in the direction of his old school, "We need to clear these inferni out so we can get to Hogwarts."

oOoOo

It was a horribly familiar smell that greeted him as his senses returned, the unique smell he associated with hospitals.

"You back with us Harry?" asked a tired looking Rose.

"The others?"

"Hannah and Lavender are going to make it," Rose reassured him. Michael lost two men."

"Luna?" asked Harry.

Rose shook her head, "We don't know."

"And Voldemort?" asked Harry.

"No one has seen him since Luna disappeared with him. From what we can work out his inferni all stopped attacking Hogsmeade pretty much straight afterward."

"Where are we?" asked Harry as he sat up.

"In the spell damage ward of Saint Mungo's," seeing Harry start to get out of bed she put a hand on his shoulder. "It's safe Harry, the Ministry is taking very good care of all the injured."

Harry slowly settled back down, "What did he do to us?"

"Voldemort's spell you mean? Some sort of spell that interrupted how your nerves worked. It's not permanent but the healers are a keeping an eye on the three of you to make sure the spell hasn't left any problems."

Rose gently cupped Harry's chin, "Rest brother and let me do the running around. The healer said the potions they gave you will be out of you system by morning. So get some sleep, I'll keep watch."

oOoOo

Two days later the Marauders were back in Queensland. Hannah and Lavender were well on the way to recovery even if they were still bed bound and, in the case of Lavender receiving very specialised one on one nursing from a very relieved Renee. Thankfully the rest of their allies were almost fully recovered.

Harry had been shocked when he heard that nearly everybody present at the time had portkeyed to Hogsmeade to help fight Voldemort's mutant inferni or had arrived in time to assist the injured. Several brotherhood members had appeared with a mutant healer, even more shocking to him had been the Ministry's reaction.

The Minister had issued orders followed up by press announcements stating that Mutants were no longer under any sort of ministry control order. He also promised to repeal any anti-mutant laws over the next few weeks. Apparently yesterday's Daily Prophet had a fairly accurate account of events.

"Hello Harry Potter."

Harry swung around to see Luna standing behind him.

"Luna…oh thank God," whispered Harry as he pulled his blond team mate into a hug.

Luna hugged him tightly, "It's good to see you too."

Even in his relief he heard the hesitation in her voice.

"Luna, what is it?"

Luna smiled sadly," I'm not your Luna Harry…she died to bind Tom Riddle's powers long enough to defeat him."

"What…no she…" Harry trailed off as Luna watched him with tears falling.

"I'm sorry Harry but when I told her what happened we planned how to do it…there wasn't another way. Believe me, in my world we fought him and one by one you all died until it was just me. She knew what she was risking and she wouldn't let me do it."

Harry could see that Luna was grieving her sister's sacrifice just as he was and indeed would continue to do. "What are you going to do?"

Luna shrugged, "There's nothing left for me there I was going to seek out another world where things are better."

"Stay here, with us."

"I'm not her Harry; I'm not your Luna."

"I know but you are welcome here Luna."

Luna burst into tears, sobbing as Harry embraced her.

oOoOo

Thames House

Geoffrey Smyth gestured at the list of names on the table, "I want that handful still out there in custody."

"We'll get them," Commissioner Coleman assured the Head of Thames House. "The Ministry of Magic are finally cooperating with us. Their new boss Thicknesse has a background in their version of law enforcement and he gets what we are trying to do."

Smyth nodded, "Yes from what my source tells me they've apparently been holding talks with their version of the UN about fixing the mess that was Magical Britain. Thicknesse is promising and has apparently begun the process of repealing all the anti-mutant laws."

"What of Potter and his people?" asked Captain Britain.

"They paid a heavy price Captain. Right now they are out of the game. We'll keep an eye on them."

Captain Britain frowned, "They did well taking down this Voldemort but I'm still worried about their motivations."

Smyth's expression hardened, "If they become an issue then we'll deal with them."

oOoOo

ICW Offices

Douglas Fairbanks frowned at his old friend turned politician, "Scott, I still think we need to talk to Potter. Even with Voldemort's death and the regime change in Britain I don't think he's just going to put down his weapons and go back to study his N.E.W.T's."

Scott Whitebear ran a hand through his hair, "I agree Douglas but the ICW doesn't as far as they are concerned he's done his duty. I really think that they believe that he is going to either live as a wizard or go muggle now that Britain has begun repealing its anti-mutant laws. Alain and I tried but they are not listening, even with Japan and China supporting us."

"Well shit…if we don't keep communications open he could go rogue Scott. He's got training and skills and I can guarantee that he and his team do not think the problem is dealt with. Not with Stryker on the lamb."

"I know, he's meeting with Alain and I hear the Irish are looking to talk as well. I'll speak to Alain and the Irish minister and see what we can do."

Fairbanks sighed, "I hope we can get him on board with the program."

"So do I," agreed the Canadian.

oOoOo

Harry felt Hannah take his hand as they looked down at the stone marker.

Luna Lovegood

Her sacrifice will be forever remembered

"It seems odd to be looking at this knowing Luna, well a Luna is waiting for us back at the house," remarked Hannah.

Harry shook his head, "After everything that has happened I thought it would be me…"

"That made the sacrifice," finished Hannah.

"I know prophecies aren't worth the paper that they are written on but it still feels wrong."

Hannah leaned in putting her arm around Harry's waist, "Does it matter who offed the sick bastard? Because if it does then I think that you can still say you, well we did. The Marauders are your team love."

"Why didn't she tell us what she planned to do, maybe we could have found a better way."

Hannah shook her head sadly, "I don't know but when Luna said that she knew what she was doing I believe her."

Harry looked up at Hannah, "I do too; it's just another lost friend, a friend that shouldn't have died."

"There will be more; the fights not over yet," said Hannah. "It might never be."

Harry turned and looked out over the Marauders base where the rest of his team waited for them, "So be it."

oOoOo

In an underground bunker in rural Hungary William Stryker looked around his new lab.

He'd have to start again but perhaps that wasn't as big a problem as he initially thought. After all he had some truly interesting new specimens to work with.

End of Part 1

Well damn that was years in the making.

That is the end of Shattering the Mirror although I have a second story in the works I am making no promises about when it will be up.

I hope you enjoyed it.