Disclaimer: I own nothing apart from the plot and any characters I invent. Everything else belongs to J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling.
A/N: Hello! Here’s the next reworked chapter! I really hope it has been to your liking so far! Please leave me a review and let me know what you think!
A Death Eater, voice uncertain, hesitantly inquired, ‘Is he dead?’ as they moved cautiously toward Harry Potter’s motionless and silent figure, the tense atmosphere thick with the question.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡunzSpIN5wS
From his hidden vantage point, Draco watched in shock as the scene unfolded before him. He could hardly believe that Potter had willingly sacrificed himself, seemingly in a desperate move. The situation unnervingly reminded Draco of one of those Muggle movies he had secretly seen, where the hero fakes death only to return at the crucial moment. Despite everything, Draco refused to accept that Potter was truly gone. Come on, Potter, you can’t be dead, he thought, shaking his head silently in denial. Not that he would ever admit, even to himself, that he preferred Potter to survive.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbyXN3pqqcn
Bellatrix weaved her way through the other Death Eaters, her movements confident and unhurried as she approached Potter. She paused once she was above him, looking down at his still figure with evident delight. A nervous giggle slipped from her, revealing a mix of excitement and nervousness as she savoured the moment.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrHO876X0bK
Snape’s frown deepened as he moved closer to the scene, carefully staying hidden in the shadows. A feeling of unease grew within him, and he immediately thought of Dumbledore. Surely, this isn’t what you envisioned, Albus? Snape’s mind whirled with the potential consequences of Potter’s supposed death, each more alarming than the previous.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFoU05vSBE
Bellatrix leaned in, a sneer of disgust contorting her face as she checked Harry Potter’s pulse. At that moment, as her fingers touched his skin, the Boy Who Lived suddenly vanished, leaving Bellatrix and the Death Eaters nearby shocked by his sudden disappearance.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRn4HgET3N8
Draco slowly rose; his posture filled with disbelief as he struggled to understand what had just happened. The scene felt too unreal for him to accept, and he briefly stared, mouth slightly open, at the place where Harry Potter had been just moments earlier.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡokjutUY3tK
Nearby, Snape’s eyes widened, and his typically composed demeanour shifted to one of rare surprise. The unexpected events left him stunned, his mind racing as he tried to understand Potter’s sudden disappearance. 313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ06ZDjw2uQ3
Chaos erupted in the clearing as Voldemort, overwhelmed by rage, pushed aside his followers and fixed his eyes on the empty patch of ground where Harry Potter’s body had just been. Unable to hold back his fury, Voldemort let out a sharp scream that echoed among the trees. ‘Where did he go!?’ he shouted, his anger causing a cold shiver among the Death Eaters. Fearing his wrath, the Death Eaters quickly stepped back from him, each one eager to stay out of his line of sight in case he decided to take his anger out on them.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsH8SolSfPW
Voldemort’s eyes blazed with a fierce red glow, his anger thick in the tense silence of the clearing. Without warning, he pointed his wand at the closest tree and fired a powerful blast, turning it into splinters instantly. This sudden act of destruction caused shockwaves among the Death Eaters, who froze in place, each silently holding their breath and praying they would avoid his fury.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6rSB7i6bj7
After a tense moment, Voldemort tilted his head, staring intently at the ground where Potter disappeared. A low, eerie laugh started to escape him, escalating into uncontrollable laughter. The Death Eaters, unsettled by their Master’s unpredictable reaction, exchanged worried glances, their faces showing confusion and fear as they tried to decipher the reason for his manic amusement.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVqWANmJEuV
Voldemort’s eyes sharpened with suspicion as he tried to understand Potter’s sudden disappearance. His voice became a venomous whisper, tinged with doubt. ‘Have I been deceived?’ he murmured, his gaze intense as he scanned the empty ground. The thought that his enemies might have deceived him fuelled his anger even more.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡan897xGHVd
Overwhelmed by his fury, Voldemort’s temper flared. He yelled in rage and shot a fierce blast from his wand, causing earth and debris to scatter as he created a gaping hole in the ground where Harry Potter’s body had recently been. The intensity of his anger resonated through the clearing, causing the Death Eaters to feel shaken and uncertain.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDvrYrndq5M
Out of the tense silence, a faint, almost imperceptible voice seemed to whisper into Voldemort’s ear: ‘Leave… now…’ 313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1sNPLkZxA1
He remained still for a moment, the command ringing in his mind. Gradually, Voldemort’s expression of anger softened into a cold, calculated calm. Finally, he gave a short nod, silently accepting the order amid the chaos. ‘My friends, for now, we will leave. I will exterminate Harry Potter and every one of those wretched blood-traitors, but it can wait… for now,’ Voldemort commanded, and his followers looked at him in shock.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEtYAwbqs9
Snape observed this with curiosity before shifting his attention to the crater Voldemort blasted into the ground. What is going on, Albus? he asked mentally, knowing his mentor would never be able to answer.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVFXmiGiBY3
Voldemort walked purposefully toward the trees, but then stopped and looked back. ‘Ah, I almost forgot…’ he muttered, his anger rising as he focused on Hagrid.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZp6SBe59E
‘‘arry,’ the half-giant whimpered despairingly, grief-stricken, tears running down his face as he mourned Harry.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkMUDj5hAtt
Without hesitation, Voldemort lifted his wand and spoke the deadly spell, ‘Avada Kedavra!’ A stream of green light erupted from the wand’s tip, hitting Hagrid directly and making the half-giant fall abruptly, his large body hitting the ground with a loud thump. The Death Eaters remained silent in shock as Voldemort’s ruthless action confirmed his reputation for cruelty, making his intentions unmistakable.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYzoHpsklsP
Snape looked away, his face showing a rare sorrow. Although he never truly liked Hagrid, he wouldn’t wish this fate upon him. As the last of the Death Eaters departed, Snape crept to Hagrid’s still body. He picked a leaf from the ground and subtly transformed it into a blanket with his wand. Carefully, he covered Hagrid with it, trying to offer some comfort and dignity. ‘I’ll be back, Rubeus,’ Snape whispered, his eyes narrowing in anger as he glared at the retreating Death Eaters.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRnhwUF5dgX
oOoOo313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡo7YDukx2js
Snape moved cautiously behind the departing Death Eaters, staying concealed by silently flitting from tree to tree. He kept a deliberate distance to avoid attracting attention as the group headed toward the edge of the Forbidden Forest. Upon reaching the forest’s boundary, Snape paused in the shadows and listened carefully. From his concealed position, he overheard Voldemort giving instructions to some of his most trusted followers. Bellatrix and Lucius were among those told to stay behind, assigned the grim task of eliminating anyone trying to escape the castle. Snape noted these orders carefully, recognising the increased risk for anyone attempting to leave the grounds.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLEvNeFiFH3
Snape muttered a curse under his breath, realising just how unfavourable their situation had become. He doubted Hermione and Ron could reach the safety of the Forbidden Forest unnoticed. The Death Eaters, no longer gathered in one group, had split into pairs, each heading in different directions across the grounds. Some moved toward the castle, others toward the lake, and two doubled back into the forest’s depths. This extensive dispersal meant all escape routes were now monitored, making a stealthy escape seem even more unlikely.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡusJezF2475
Snape smoothly shifted into a bat, swiftly darting through the night sky towards the castle. His keen eyes immediately spotted Ron and Hermione rushing toward the remains of the fallen bridge. Muttering a curse about their recklessness, Snape adjusted his course, swooping down to intercept them before they progressed further.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ0ee1oT9RO
As Snape landed, he transformed back into his human form, with his robes settling quietly around him. He appeared directly in front of Ron and Hermione, making them stop suddenly. Snape held out his arm, silently signalling them not to go further. Breathing heavily from their quick dash across the grounds, Hermione and Ron instinctively followed the warning, their eyes nervously shifting between each other and Snape’s stern face.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCBGm2Gi6EB
‘Snape! What the hell-’313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ5ysRRrwJZ
‘Shut up, Weasley!’ Snape snapped, his patience exhausted as he pointed a finger toward Hagrid’s Hut. ‘Look,’ he emphasised in a quiet, urgent voice. Ron and Hermione followed his gesture, looking through the darkness. Below, a group of Death Eaters had gathered, their laughter echoing ominously across the grounds. Suddenly, one of them raised their wand and cast a jet of fire at Hagrid’s Hut, setting it ablaze within seconds. Flames rapidly consumed the familiar building as the Death Eaters stepped back, celebrating their destructive act.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZMBQKjMmB
Ron and Hermione stood helplessly, tears in their eyes, as they watched Hagrid’s cherished hut burn rapidly. The flames devoured the wooden building in seconds, leaving behind a blazing ruin. Snape watched the scene with a grimace, showing his discomfort at the pointless destruction. He stayed silent, not commenting, while keeping a close eye on the Death Eaters.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoeFcV7l4up
After a few moments, the Death Eaters started to disperse from the immediate area, allowing Snape to assess the terrain between their location and the Forbidden Forest’s edge. He contemplated guiding Ron and Hermione toward Hagrid’s Hut, taking advantage of the cover provided by the large pumpkins and the scattered trees. However, the risk was too great; Death Eaters were positioned across the grounds, making it highly dangerous to cross unnoticed.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnkhKztB1hh
Snape exhaled heavily, drawing Hermione and Ron’s attention. His eyes narrowed as he warned, ‘We need to stay vigilant,’ his tone tinged with irritation from Mad-Eye Moody’s constant warnings. Frowning, Snape looked sternly at both students. ‘Proceed carefully towards the greenhouses and find cover,’ he advised, emphasising the seriousness of the situation. Ron and Hermione nodded in understanding, ready to creep through the perilous grounds. ‘I’ll join you there,’ Snape added softly, making it clear he would follow and regroup once it was safe.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ92qtTGXhc1
Ron looked worried as he nervously watched the Death Eaters patrolling. ‘And you?’ he asked Snape, his face showing concern.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZ7AJoWvhV
Snape gave a curt nod, his eyes narrowing with resolve. ‘I’ll clear a path,’ he whispered. Without hesitation, he shifted smoothly into a bat—his change quick and silent. His small, dark form rose into the cool night sky, wings flapping rapidly as he flew ahead towards the greenhouses. Flying low over the grass, Snape moved through the shadows, focused on making sure the route was safe for Ron and Hermione to follow undetected.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuCa8mPCZQw
Ron and Hermione watched Snape intently, hesitant but determined to follow his instructions. After a brief exchange, Hermione gently squeezed Ron’s arm, her voice steady but low. ‘We’ll just have to do as he says,’ she said, encouraging Ron to focus on their escape. Together, they cautiously descended the slope, watching each step as they aimed for cover behind a cluster of large boulders near the ruined bridge. The rocks provided temporary shelter, hiding them from view. From their vantage point, the route to the greenhouses seemed simple, but the path was actually risky; several Death Eaters blocked their way, making the idea of a quick escape seem even more daunting.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaceTplKgsI
Ron held his wand firmly, controlling his breath as he cautiously peeked around the boulder. Hermione did the same, her face tense as she looked out from their hiding spot. Only a few metres away, two Death Eaters stood with their backs to them, unaware of the young Gryffindors hidden nearby.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡO4HjeBuCg5
Ron shared a determined glance with Hermione, inhaled deeply, and nodded, signalling readiness. Quietly, they separated, each moving around the boulder from opposite sides in perfect harmony. They stealthily approached their unaware enemies. At the same time, Ron and Hermione raised their wands and whispered, ‘Stupefy.’ Twin streams of red light erupted, hitting the Death Eaters directly. The dark-robed figures collapsed to the ground, knocked out before they could do anything.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNNO2NHWUE
As they hid in the shadows, Ron and Hermione’s eyes caught flashes of light ahead—rapid bursts of spells lighting up the darkness. Though the source of the magic was unseen, its impact was clear; Death Eaters near the greenhouses suddenly collapsed, struck down by skilfully cast spells from an unknown origin. Seeing their enemies fall, Ron and Hermione shared a relieved glance, silently recognising how lucky they were to have Snape protecting them during this dangerous moment.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrR1B0w3tVt
They quickly looked around to make sure the way was clear before proceeding. Staying low, they hurried up the trail toward the greenhouses, using the bushes and trees along the path as cover. Every few steps, they paused to scan for any sign of the Death Eaters, their hearts pounding. As they reached the greenhouses, Ron and Hermione pressed against the back wall, hidden by shadows and thick foliage. They remained silent, waiting for Snape to catch up, staying as concealed as possible until he joined them.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxhGEsYQqni
From his hidden perch above, Snape watched Ron and Hermione with a smirk. Without delay, he shapeshifted into a bat, gliding silently to their side. When he returned to human form, he smiled slightly as they jumped at his unexpected appearance. ‘We’re nearly there,’ Snape whispered. The two nodded, their nerves tense.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgIFF2osQVI
Snape cautiously looked around the edge of the greenhouse, searching for any movement. His face darkened as he saw figures approaching. ‘They’re coming this way,’ he said urgently, signalling Ron and Hermione to follow him inside the greenhouse. They slipped in just as shouts erupted outside; the noise indicated that the unconscious Death Eaters had been found. ‘That could be problematic,’ Snape noted grimly, understanding that the shouting would probably alert more Death Eaters nearby.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOJtDegHT9
Hermione crouched between a large plant pot and the worktop, her face pale. She took a shaky breath and looked at Ron with wide eyes. ‘What now?’ she whispered, her voice trembling as she struggled to calm her nerves.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5drSyNwJep
Snape quietly offered, ‘I’ll take a look,’ glancing cautiously at Ron and Hermione. He slowly moved out of their hiding spot, carefully heading toward the door on the other side of the greenhouse. At the entrance, he pushed the plastic sheet slightly aside to peek through, ensuring he stayed hidden.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnddVszcgk4
Outside, the Death Eaters’ presence was unmistakably clear. Snape’s keen eyes spotted Bellatrix Lestrange and Lucius Malfoy walking purposefully up the hill toward them. He noticed that the others were also gathering in that spot, their focus on the disturbance. With the main group engaged and distracted, Snape considered their odds of escaping, realising this fleeting moment might be their only chance to get away quietly.
Snape quickly returned to where Ron and Hermione were waiting. He whispered softly and urgently, ‘This is our chance,’ making sure only they could hear him. 313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNRSTlAoPws
Snape carefully led them back to the entrance they originally used to sneak into the greenhouse, his eyes scanning the surroundings to ensure no one was nearby. He moved cautiously, aware that any abrupt action or sound could attract attention.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDF6Bio2J4P
When Snape arrived at the entrance, he paused, tense and alert as he swiftly looked around to spot any threats. He carefully surveyed the area to make sure no Death Eaters were nearby or advancing. Confident that the area was clear, he signalled Ron and Hermione to catch up, giving a quiet gesture for them to move quickly but silently.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ902n7hdeAr
Ron and Hermione hesitated briefly, their faces showing fear, but they obeyed and moved closer to Snape. Seeing their unease, Snape took out his wand and lightly tapped each of their heads. Immediately, a cold feeling surrounded them as they understood Snape had cast a Disillusionment Charm. He then cast the same spell on himself, allowing them to remain unseen.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ6ADPWHSIM
‘That should buy us some time,’ Snape murmured, glancing around the corner once more to ensure their route ahead was safe. His eyes swept the path, looking for any movement or signs of danger lurking nearby. Convinced that the immediate area was clear, he turned back to Ron and Hermione, his face serious but resolute. Time was crucial, and he understood they had to move quickly before the Death Eaters regrouped or shifted their plans.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugDOa97f8W
Finding nothing at his first vantage point, Snape quickly moved to the other end of the greenhouse and cautiously looked around the corner. He saw the Death Eaters, now actively searching the area, clearly determined to find out what happened to their fallen comrades. Their increased alertness was obvious, and Snape understood that even with the Disillusionment Charm, they might not stay hidden for much longer.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzbE9gsjKPd
Snape gave a final nod, signalling that it was time to go. He silently gestured for Ron and Hermione to advance as they geared up to proceed, using the Disillusionment Charm for concealment. 313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQoSOeQzpbu
‘We need to make a run for it. Stay alert, and follow my lead,’ Snape said softly and urgently. Without waiting for anyone’s reply, he quickly moved, sprinting down the hill with confident, practised speed. His actions were deliberate and quiet, each step showing his many years of skill in avoiding notice.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuKkyxD67rG
Hearts pounding, Ron and Hermione hurried after Snape, staying low and close to each other. They moved cautiously and deliberately, trying their best to remain hidden while they followed Snape closely in their desperate attempt to escape.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAwmn0mQqqj
As they continued, Hermione’s foot unexpectedly caught on a hidden root beneath the undergrowth. She yelped sharply, breaking the tense silence as she tumbled and fell hard to the ground. Ron, just ahead, turned around at her cry, worry evident on his face. ‘Hermione!’ he said anxiously, and quickly hurried back to where he heard her fall.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgrGXR4xo4v
‘My ankle,’ Hermione whimpered, tears streaming down her face. The pain was sudden and intense, making it hard to keep her sobs in as she grasped her injured leg. Her distress sounded alarmingly loud in the tense silence.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ99MkEKZpsB
Snape, drawn by the sound of their voices, hurried over to Ron and Hermione. Maintaining a low, urgent tone, he whispered, ‘What happened?’ His tone was tense, and his eyes darted nervously between the two, looking for any signs of danger. He crouched down beside them, concentrating intently to understand the situation without revealing their position.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZNubC0OPjc
‘She tripped,’ Ron said, his voice filled with concern as he instinctively reached out for Hermione, who was still hidden beneath the shimmering Disillusionment Charm. His hands reached through the air until they found her, gently steadying her as she worked to regain her composure.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSA5lqdzbtx
Snape moved quickly, carefully surveying their surroundings with keen eyes, checking every shadow and patch of undergrowth to ensure they stayed concealed. Satisfied that there was no imminent threat, he drew his wand and tapped each of them on the head one by one. Immediately, the Disillusionment Charm’s shimmering concealment faded, revealing the three of them in full view.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWs5Fngzg5j
Snape knelt beside Hermione, swiftly aiming his wand at her injured ankle and murmuring a spell. A subtle red light flickered around her foot, helping him evaluate the damage. Frustration etched on his face, Snape sighed as he understood the severity. Turning to Ron and Hermione, he spoke softly but urgently, ensuring no unwanted ears overheard. ‘Her ankle is broken,’ he said, concern evident in his voice. ‘A full healing spell isn’t safe to perform here.’ Meanwhile, Ron did his best to soothe Hermione, gently trying to quiet her pained whimpers and reassure her amid the tense situation.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy0Hg0r5fcB
Ron, noticing Hermione’s pain, quickly decided, ‘I’ll carry her,’ with resolve in his voice. He carefully bent down and slid his arms underneath Hermione, lifting her gently and avoiding her injured ankle. Still shaken from her fall, Hermione held onto Ron’s shoulders, thankful for his support.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr5nWhQicWX
Snape nodded, his dark eyes scanning the surroundings one last time to check for any threats. Once he was assured it was safe, he spoke in a quiet, urgent tone, ‘Good, let’s go!’ Without delay, he moved quickly, weaving through the undergrowth with purpose as he led the way to the edge of the Forbidden Forest.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0xLiI7k2bw
Ron kept a careful pace, avoiding tripping on the uneven ground as he moved through it. Once they were fully in view, he stayed alert, carefully observing his environment for potential threats.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRoZJURreGu
Hermione, her voice subdued by pain and fatigue, looked up at Ron and gently inquired, ‘Are you alright, Ron?’ Her worry was clear. As she watched him, she observed the sharp contrast between his pallid skin and the familiar spray of freckles dotting his face.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkz4xP4a0kT
Ron offered a faint smile as he gazed at Hermione, attempting to reassure her despite the fear and exhaustion visible on his face. ‘Yeah, I just have to keep going,’ he said, though his voice trembled, revealing his underlying anxiety and doubt. He held onto Hermione a little more firmly, silently vowing to himself that he would not let her down, no matter how daunting the path ahead seemed.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkE0uNtRfW
Hermione shifted a little in Ron’s embrace, her forehead creased with worry as she struggled to concentrate amid the pain shooting from her ankle. ‘Do you think Snape helped Harry too?’ she inquired, voice trembling as a sudden, sharp pain made her wince.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡni6mlV3RCv
Ron took a shaky breath, trying to steady himself. ‘Merlin, I hope so,’ he whispered, almost inaudibly. The thought of Harry surviving was his greatest hope, but he couldn’t shake the fear that the odds might not be in their favour. He looked down at Hermione, whose worried face reflected his own fears. Ron tried to give her a reassuring smile, but it came out more like a grimace. Still, he kept his tone steady as he said, ‘We’ll soon see.’ Determined to stay strong, Ron committed to holding himself together—not just for himself, but especially for Hermione, who needed him now more than ever.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU41ZN3d7Rs
Hermione rested her head against Ron’s shoulder, her eyes closing in exhaustion and pain. Determined to keep her safe and catch up with Snape, Ron increased his speed as much as he could without losing his footing. The thick underbrush and uneven ground made each step difficult, but Ron kept going, holding Hermione securely. After what felt like an eternity, Ron finally arrived at the edge of the Forbidden Forest, where Snape waited for them. Snape’s eyes carefully scanned the surroundings, alert for any signs of nearby Death Eaters, his stance tense and watchful.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7IBjDQgWBV
As they advanced into the thick forest, Snape paused briefly and spoke to Ron and Hermione in a calm, measured tone. ‘We only need to stop once on our way to safety,’ he stated, voice tinged with quiet urgency. He hesitated before softly adding, ‘There’s something I… we need to do.’ The sorrowful tone of his words sent a ripple of unease through both Hermione and Ron. They exchanged anxious glances, each silently wondering what could cause such a reaction from the usually stern Potions Master.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZCWZnrPooT
Ron’s voice quivered as he finally voiced the question weighing on his mind. ‘Sir, what happened to Harry?’ he asked, his words barely above a whisper, revealing his fear of the answer he might get.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhauHm6MSo3
‘I will tell you everything soon enough, but we need to get out of danger first,’ Snape said, quickening his pace through the trees.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp9M6U1M3BF
Hermione’s voice trembled as she asked, barely able to say, ‘Is he… dead?’313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡH8PKkGXE7g
Snape stopped and faced them, appearing tired and strained. After a brief pause, he swallowed hard and honestly admitted, ‘I don’t know,’ with a nervous shrug. Then, without saying anything else, Snape turned back and continued walking through the trees.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡATcxR2hCCW
They hurried through the trees, following Snape as he led them quickly and quietly to the clearing where Voldemort and the Death Eaters had recently gathered. As the thick underbrush cleared to reveal the open space, Ron suddenly stopped, his breath hitching as he took in the scene before him. The large, jagged hole in the ground loomed ominously, a stark sign of the violence that had taken place. Next to the crater, a body was covered with a cloth but was clearly identifiable. 313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVJsbtNgW3R
Ron’s steps faltered as he moved closer, his voice nearly inaudible as shock and dread overwhelmed him. ‘Who…?’ he started to say, but the words escaped him.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIcFA3Dqzvl
Snape exhaled deeply and stepped nearer to the covered body. He carefully pulled back the blanket to reveal the unmistakable features of Hagrid. Seeing this, Hermione couldn’t hold back her tears and started crying openly. Ron, in contrast, looked on in shock and anger, tears welling up in his eyes and almost spilling over.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡviFmhtS7Sn
Snape shook his head and gently covered Hagrid again. In a soft, regretful tone, he said, ‘The Dark Lord murdered him before they left the clearing.’ He paused heavily, gazing at the two devastated Gryffindors with a sorrowful expression. ‘I did not want to abandon him here,’ he whispered, genuinely remorseful as he looked at their grief-stricken faces.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6Ad4Spli5v
Ron nodded and carefully kneeled to place Hermione on the ground gently. The moment her foot made contact with the earth, Hermione cried out sharply, pain evident from her injured ankle. Ron flinched at her cry, his face showing concern and guilt. ‘Sorry, Hermione,’ he whispered, nervously looking toward Snape for help.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtKq4CuaXc
Snape approached them and aimed his wand at Hermione’s ankle. ‘Ferula,’ he said, causing Hermione to cry out as her bones realigned, securing her ankle with a splint and bandages. He then uttered another spell, which lessened the pain, though it didn’t disappear. ‘I’m not very skilled at healing spells,’ Snape murmured, withdrawing and heading toward Hagrid’s prone body.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qFSAeUuzG
Ron carefully helped Hermione to her feet, avoiding putting too much pressure on her injured ankle. She winced but managed to stand, using Ron’s support for balance. ‘I think I’ll be okay,’ she whispered, her voice uncertain as she gently tested her weight on the injured ankle. After confirming the pain was manageable, Hermione let go of Ron and stood on her own.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡphCQo4eWO6
Ron nodded at her before turning to approach Snape, who was gazing at the gaping hole in the ground. Hermione, still limping but determined despite her pain, made her way over to join them. Ron looked from Snape to the crater, concern clear on his face as he tried to grasp the extent of the devastation before them.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4uT5y7mwBn
‘What happened?’ he asked quietly, gesturing towards the crater that marked the aftermath of the recent chaos.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxOOLKSViKR
Snape took a steady breath, slightly shaking his head as he tried to piece together the events concerning Potter’s fate. ‘The Dark Lord...’ he started, his voice tinged with doubt, ‘he killed Potter. Or at least, he thought he did.’ Snape looked troubled, recalling the chaos of that moment. ‘But when the Death Eaters went to confirm Potter’s death, he simply vanished without a trace, as if he had never been there.’ He grimaced and looked at the others.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBScQiMU6tF
Hermione’s calm finally shattered, tears streaming down her face. Her voice, trembling and fragile, struggled to speak. ‘So, he’s…’ she faltered, overwhelmed by emotion. She leaned on Ron for support and sobbed into his shoulder, her grief intense.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWKjcYmubn
Ron, equally devastated, wrapped his arms tightly around Hermione, holding her close as tears quietly fell from his eyes. He tried to provide her with what little comfort he could; their mutual sorrow united them in this shared moment of grief.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7Y48y6cf5
Snape shook his head, a troubled expression clouding his face. ‘I’m not entirely sure what happened,’ he said softly, voice tinged with doubt. ‘The Dark Lord now thinks the whole situation was some trick or deception. He seems convinced he’s been duped somehow.’ Snape stopped for a moment, looking at Ron and Hermione, who still held a glimmer of hope despite their grief. ‘He has gone for now, probably to gather his followers and replan before starting the hunt for Potter anew,’ Snape finished, leaving a heavy silence as they all contemplated what this meant.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnRW2xSHgQA
Ron nodded before turning his eyes to Hagrid’s motionless form. His mouth opened as he tried to speak, his voice heavy with emotion. ‘Maybe we could use this hole to bury—’ he started, but the words got stuck in his throat, and he couldn’t finish, overwhelmed by grief.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cRjttCCCU
Snape nodded in agreement and then turned toward the half-giant. Steadying himself, he raised his wand and carefully levitated Hagrid, still covered by the blanket, into the crater. With a subtle flick, Snape transformed three nearby sticks into durable spades. Together with Ron and Hermione, he began the sombre and challenging task of covering Hagrid’s body with earth. The process was exhausting and respectful, each shovelful of dirt a poignant reminder of their loss. Slowly, the grave was filled, leaving only a gentle mound marking Hagrid’s final resting place.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSr7fNWycqj
Hermione’s voice was barely more than a whisper as she leaned on her spade, overwhelmed with emotion. ‘I’ll miss him,’ she whispered, her voice thick with grief. Tears streamed down her face, showing how deeply she mourned their fallen friend.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQKdXyu8DHe
Ron wiped away his tears, attempting to compose himself. ‘So will I,’ he said quietly, his voice steadier than Hermione’s, yet filled with sorrow in every word.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7nq1NgBQJs
Snape offered no words of comfort, yet his face showed a deep feeling of sadness as he looked at the improvised grave. After a long pause of heavy silence, he finally spoke in a low, firm voice. ‘We should leave,’ he said quietly, breaking the stillness. He looked again at the freshly covered mound before turning away. ‘There’s a small camp not far from here,’ he added, his voice carrying just enough urgency to motivate them. Without waiting for a response, Snape started walking away from the grave.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCEaYgNNIHm
Hermione and Ron stayed by the grave a little longer, their hearts filled with grief. Ron’s voice was soft as he said his last goodbye. ‘Farewell, Hagrid,’ he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrVNpVCu8C4
Beside him, Hermione bent down and retrieved a fallen branch. She then lightly waved her wand, transforming it into a bouquet of roses in soft pink, white, and yellow hues. Carefully, she placed the flowers on the freshly dug ground. Grief overwhelmed her again, and tears welled up as she silently mourned their lost friend.313Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJUWer1rLVP
Ron gently eased Hermione away from the grave, his motions gentle and considerate as he guided her toward Snape, who stood patiently awaiting them. Ron was unexpectedly thankful that Snape chose not to make any biting remarks about their grief, a change in attitude that earned him a bit of respect from Ron. Carefully, Ron helped Hermione ascend the gentle slope away from Hagrid’s grave, and together they followed Snape deeper into the forest, leaving behind the mournful scene and the fresh grave of their fallen friend.
A/N: Firstly, I am really sorry for the wait in getting this chapter up. My computer broke a couple of years ago and I've only just managed to get a new one.
Secondly, I’m so sorry! Please don’t hate me! I cried so much when writing this chapter! I love Hagrid and the thought of him dying is so wrong, but it wouldn’t have made sense for them to keep him captive. As far as Voldemort would know, the Order betrayed the truce and thinks a trick has been played on him. Naturally, he would kill the first Order member he came across for revenge!
I hope you enjoyed it in any case, and please leave me a review to let me know how I’m doing with this rewrite. Any suggestions for what you might want to see is greatly welcome as well. I may not use them, but it may inspire me with other extra scenes!
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