Alastor 'Mad-Eye'Moody

ALASTOR MOODY | 1979 (AGAIN) | THE PATH THUS FAR

"There are spots that don’t come off...” 

REBIRTH: bell tolls & clock strikes (01.01.1979)

SHARED PERILS: conversations with The Order members and living out their second chances & learns of horcruxes (01.16.1979)

INTERROGATION: auld habits die hard [after learning of Narcissa’s arrest & wanting more info on the previous lifetime] (01.31.1979)

VALENTINE’S DAY BALL: Mission & Moody loses his leg (02.14.1979)

PRE-ELECTION: Moody discusses Amelia’s campaign (04.02.1979)

ELECTION DAY: Alice & Moody are attacked in the Ministry by Bellatrix - to which Moody loses his eye (04.22.1979)

Amelia had almost seemed confused for a moment at the sneakoscope that was handed to her, but quickly understood and took it without hesitation. It was helpful; repetitive motions for her hands to stay moving, and it was keeping her calmer and focused. Perhaps she felt slightly like a child being given a toy to calm down, but she wasn’t going to argue, because clearly it helped.

“Really?” Amelia looked up at Alastor, unable to help but grin softly at hearing that. If he thought she would do a great job, well, then that clearly meant something, even if only to her. Then he spoke the rest of his words, and she let out a sigh, hunching her shoulders a little in the chair. “I understand that,” She spoke slowly, “Not just on me, but The Order, and my family… But we know what’s going on this time. We can do better, and be safer, and have an inside scoop that we didn’t have before! Isn’t that worth trying?”

It was his words of civil disputes that made her snort and let out a laugh at that. “I’m sorry, but civil disputes?” She sat up more, putting the sneekoscope down before she broke it, “How exactly are we supposed to trust in Dumbledore after all that we’ve learned? After he lied about not remembering? About all his plans from before? About the new spy? How exactly is any of that helpful?”

.

As Amelia seemed to focus her energy on the sneakoscope, Alastor took a mental note. He hoped it didn’t come off condescending, but more as a way of helping one of the people he cared for. In any way he could. And right now, it was being a friend and listening. To everything she had to say. And when she perked up at hearing that he thought she would do a great job, he doubled-down on the sentiment with a nod, saying, “Of course. What we need right now isn’t a politician, per say, but a leader. Someone who can guide this front of the war without any agenda of their own.”

When he saw ow much Amelia understood the target she was placing on herself and those she loved, Moody stood from his desk. Turning slightly, he pointed to the sneakoscope, “You’re going to need that then. Along with a few others...” his voice lingered as he looked through his shelves for other items that had helped him over the years. Now that he knew getting captured was inevitable for him, no matter the precautions he took, then Alastor could help prevent as much danger as he could for Miss Bones. Gathering the Secrecy Sensor in his hands, Moody brought the squiggly object on the desk in front of her, “Might wan’ to stockpile up on a few dark detectors.”

The laugh didn’t catch him quite off-guard as it would have in that previous lifetime. Now, standing here - having to do it all over again - Moody found himself unable to trust his old friend completely either. Sitting down, Alator rubbed his temple before saying, “Whether he’s our leader or not, it doesn’t change that right now we’re fighting to survive. Until we can all come up with a plan together, we need to trust that we’re all aiming towards the same goal.”

who: @amphibianfrank​

when: may 15th, 1979

where: the ministry - auror offices

Ever since election day, Alastor had made a point not to go into the Ministry. At first, it was easy. Shacking-up in St. Mungo’s to heal. Then, it became a silent protest; a subtle hint to those in his office and above him that Moody was not content with the outcome. But then, the announcement of Hogwarts closing abruptly sent off alarms in Moody’s memories. To a time where darkness had encased all around him for months... 

Sighing, Alastor made his way back to the auror offices, still being cleaned up from the attack less than a few weeks prior. In his own private office, there hadn’t been any destruction; wondering if any of them had dared to sneak into his office during the chaos. Paranoid, Moody began casting revealing spells for answers - accompanied by protection charms to keep those fools away - but stopped when he heard a knock at the door. Turning, Moody’s new magical eye adjusted, seeing through the large wooden slab of the door to see none other than Frank Longbottom.

“Finally come to see m’ ugly mug, Longbottom?”

—

It was as if the world around her was frozen. And she wasn’t even sure where she was right now. All she knew was that this woman in front of her had caused so much misery and harm in her life. Or well, her future life. She couldn’t let it happen. Not that it would happen now. Frank was not here. Or maybe that would be better. Maybe he would be saved this time. Alice was aware though, that although she felt a million miles away, she wasn’t on her own facing Bellatrix. Moody was here too.

Him yelling her name brought her out of the frozen state she was in. And she knew she had to listen to him this time. She knew she’d be no use right now, even though she felt bad for leaving him. They’d probably both get hurt if she stayed, and she couldn’t let that happen.

“Hurry….” Was all she said, before she spun on her heels, and ran back down the hall, searching for another escape route.

.

Hurry...Alice said and Alastor nodded and watched her go, even through all the frenzy, to make sure she got out. That she was safe. Moody wanted to see the day that she and Frank would get there revenge together. Yet, today was not that dy. A screeching laughter brought Alastor back to the reality he was in, facing down the wicked witch that was Bellatrix. Back to her full mind before dementors and isolation had driven her to insanity - only focused on the Dark Lord and bringing death.

Immediately, she sent down hex after hex; curse after curse; a green light even flickered his way. Moody was quick enough to keep up with her, frantically blocking and shielding the curses from hurting him or rebounding and hurting others. Her cackle echoed through the dark hallway, making it more haunting as she backed him further and further to the main area of the Ministry, likely to get help from one of those masked comrades. The duel was quickly becoming a means of survival as Alastor and Bellatrix were able to send a few hexes that landed - causing each other to fly backward, and Moody a large cut on his arm. As he stood, the experienced Auror looked for an escape to a nearby floo as Bellatrix composed herself. Finding it, Moody smirked.

"Confringo!” Moody shouted, watching as the blast ignited a fire and sent large chunks of rubble tumbling over the damned witch. Hearing the screech, Alastor ran as fast as he could with his new leg to the floo, clutching his bleeding arm desperately, “St. Mungo’s,” he said, as not to give away any Order location. Yet, the flames weren’t fast enough. Just as he said where to go, Bellatrix hurled another hex his way - straight to his face - one that he knew the incantation well: transmogrifian torture...

Screaming out in utter pain, the flames engulfed Alastor, transporting him the the hospital. Every fiber of his being felt as though it were being stretched and burnt; his left eye as taking the brunt of it all, landing on the cold stone with a large thud. Thankfully, Moody knew the counter-curse, shouting it through the pain with his wand pointed directly at his eye. And while the pain slowly subsided...a familiar darkness encased his sight...

⚖️

Amelia was anxious and antsy; she didn’t truly want to sit down, but she also felt it would be rude to just start pacing in Alastor’s office as she spoke to him. Merlin knew she’d paced enough in her own office that she was almost certain there would be a path worn in the floor at this point. Instead, she smiled softly, moving to sit at the chair across from him, taking a deep breath.

“Thank you,” She added then, fidgeting with her hands a little, as she thought of how to start this. “I… I may be considering running for Minister of Magic,” She finally spoke, “I understand that at this point, I’m not technically qualified, but… with everything else going on, something has to be done. And I don’t feel like there’s much I can do in the way of Dumbledore being around, and so I just…”

She tapped her foot, trying to keep from getting up and getting angry, “Part of me wants to march up to him again and punch him in the face, and I’m trying my best to just be good, but… Seeing that letter from him, and knowing that he’s put someone in danger again…” She trailed off, frowning.

.

Alastor caught onto Amelia’s nervousness almost immediately. Not that he blamed her. Moody was equally as antsy but was used to masking it with anger. Each day seemed to bring them further and further away from their goal, with dark storm clouds over their heads. Whether that was due to the memories they now harbored of their fates and the future, or re-living the events. The later almost seemed worse.

When Amelia began fidgeting with her hands, Alastor reached into a drawer of his desk. In it, he retrieved his sneakoscope, giving it to her to concentrate her fidgets and hands movements to that with her nerves. Plus, it would help her with what was to come, if this truly was the path she was taking, “Qualified or not, I think you would do a Hell of a job, Bones,” he said simply with a smile before his eyes faltered, “but...you’d be putting a target right on your back for the whole Wizarding World to see.”

Leaning back, Moody nodded, “Civil disputes will be our downfall, Amelia. If we can’t trust each other to do our part in ending this war...we’ll never see the end of it,” he warned.

—

In any other situation Alice might have been scared of Moody, and his tone of voice. But in her years of becoming an auror, she’d gotten used to him. He was like a big brother to her. He could never scare her. Of course, she wasn’t surprised that he wanted her to go, and she did kind of like how he wanted to protect her. But Alice would never forgive herself if she went and something happened to him. They needed him. Alice was pretty confident that even with their memories of the future, that they couldn’t win the war without him.

“You act like I’d not be impacted if something happened to you.” Alice pointed out as she looked at him. Of course, this was not the time to get locked in sentimental talk. “Which, for the record. It would. You’re my brother.” He was. And she didn’t know if she’d ever told him that. So he needed to know. Just incase.

There was no more time for talk though, because the death eater, had managed to pull them selves to their feet, and was once again coming towards them. This time, rather than being silent, the death eater was slewing words as well as spells at them. Alice blinked, casting a stunning spell at the death eater, trying to work out why the voice was familiar.

And then it hit her. She knew who it was. Suddenly all she could think of was that voice torturing her. It was as if, even though it had not happened yet, that she was in that very moment. Alice stumbled back, forgetting that she needed to at least try to protect herself, forgetting all what her auror training would have told her to do in this situation. Because right now, whilst she might physically be in that Ministry corridor, her mind was in Longbottom Cottage, on the night she was lost forever.

.

In that previous lifetime, Alastor would have sent her on her way and had been done with it. However, after the years of training Tonks, Moody’s sour attitude and refusal to get close to others waned. Now, he was trying his damndest to get one of the people - who could be saved from such a dark fate - he cared about most to safety. Even if it cost him another chance with this new reality.

“They may be chippin’ away at me,” Moody countered, looking to signify his new leg briefly, “but I’m no’ that easy to kill,” he smirked slightly. Perhaps a confidence in his abilities would help Alice see that it would be fine. Afterall, Alastor had survived and conquered his fears before. And it took The Dark Lord to finally finish him off.

As she stated how he was like her brother, Moody appreciated the sentiment. Yet, there was no time for that now. The bloody Death Eater was already back up, spouting off new curses. Quickly, Alastor fended them off with shield charms and glanced to see if his comrade was unhurt. Although, as Alice stood there frozen, Moody feared the worst. 

“Alice, go!” he yelled loudly, trying desperately to get her out of that trance. In an instant, Moody knew who the moving figure was. Before Bellatrix could cast another spell, Alastor saw the fallen rubble around the Ministry halls and flicked his wand to conjure the oppugno jinx. Suddenly, all the cracked pipes and stone maneuvered around them and hurtled towards Lestrange as fast as bullets. Utilizing the time he bought them, Moody brought Longbottom to her feet, “I’ll meet you back at the safe house.” He then shoved her away with a small banishing charm to get her feet moving as he turned to face Bellatrix.

—

Alice had prided herself on being a person that didn’t scare easily. She couldn’t do the job that she did if she got scared easily. Of course, it had changed more recently. These memories of the future dind’t help. And, they did scare her. But she was trying to not let it impact her. She wanted to change her future, and she couldn’t do that if she was scared of it. Alice didn’t want that future. She didn’t want her little boy to grow up without her. She didn’t want to not recognise Frank. That meant that however much it scared and confused her, she had to carry on.

Of course, coming face to face with a death eater didn’t help. She supposed she was grateful she was with Moody. But he was still getting over losing his leg. And so, when he suggested, or well more like ordered her to go, she didn’t want to obey. She was an auror. it was her job to fight these people. She didn’t run away, and she certainly didn’t want to leave Moody too it. Not by himself. She couldn’t do that. She was a team player.

“No…” She murmured, shaking her head, as she threw another stunning spell at the approaching death eater, before throwing a shield charm around herself. “I’m not leaving you Alastor.” That was almost like leaving him to face his potential death. She couldn’t do that. Alice wasn’t that kind of person. She didn’t run away from her problems. Even if maybe sometimes she should

.

“No?!” Moody yelled his thoughts aloud in frustration. Not so much from Alice herself, but the entire situation. Witches and wizards of all ages and capabilities were running in hysterics for the slim chance to survive, that would give anything for a distraction or an extra bit of time. Alastor was hardened by decades of war, far too experienced with the Death Eater attacks such as the one they were fighting through now. And Alice, as brave as she was, Moody knew all too well of her fate - wanting to buy her as much time as possible so that she and her husband could get their revenge. Together.

Alastor glanced to the masked figure as it approached them, nearly growling in annoyance. Wordlessly, Moody casted a banishing charm by stomping his newly-goblin-fashioned metal leg to the ground as hard as he could. A loud clang echoed the hall as ripples of cascading white light traveled quickly to the approaching figure, sending them flying backwards until they hit the wall and crashed to the floor beneath them.

Turning back to Alice, Alastor’s eyes showed an unusual expression of pain behind them as he said, “Don’t waste this new chance on an ol’ bugger like me, Longbottom.”

When: April 22nd, 1979 

Where: Ministry of Magic

Who: Alice and @madeye-mccdy​

Alice hadn’t really wanted to be at the ministry on the day of the election. Even more so when she knew that Rodolphus Lestrange would be there. Of course, she had no real reason to dislike him yet, but she had those memories of knowing that he would be the reason she ended up in St. Mungos. She couldn’t shake that, even if she hadn’t allowed herself to think about that event. Maybe if she didn’t think about it, it wouldn’t happen this time?

But, all of the aurors had been needed. And she did like to feel like she did a good job. Alastor also liked to remind her of how good she was at her job. It had felt hard to say no. And she also hadn’t wanted to explain to him why she hadn’t wanted to be there. That was how she had ended up at the ministry that day. She should have known something was going to happen. It was inevitable. She just hadn’t thought it would be this. They didn’t seem to be doing anything, not killing like she’d have expected. They just seemed to be enjoying the people running. It confused her. This was not how she expected them to be.

It became clear a fight would not work today. They just needed to get out of here. But Alice knew she couldn’t leave without knowing where her husband was. That was how she ended up in the corridor, and that was how she’d bumped into Alastor. The older man had been scolding her as they turned the corner, and practically walked into a death eater coming the other way.

“Shit.”

.

As fate would have it, Election Day finally came. Despite the eerie atmosphere surrounding the Ministry, Alastor still had to cast his vote. And, if that sense of dread and foreboding came to fruition, he would be there to defend his allies tooth and nail until the very end. Even with Moody knowing his demise, it never deterred him from their goal of defeating The Dark Lord. If anything, it made him more determined and dangerous to finish their objective sooner. Before more lives were lost; or prophecies uttered.

Still, as masked figures apparated into their lobby and halls, Moody stood his ground. No leg injury would keep him from protecting innocents. It was odd though, how volatile they all seemed. As if there to merely scare them all out; violence for the sake of violence. However, that wasn’t the only reason that came to mind. Watching as they attacked and took pleasure in the chaos, Alastor couldn’t help but wonder if they were after something within the Ministry. Something that not even control of their government would allow them to have...

With a sneer, Moody kept on the heels of one in particular to watch where they were going, keeping a stealth about him until a familiar face came into his eyeline. Furious that Alice hadn’t already gotten out of there, Moody ran to her and chatisized her for it. Until the curse left her lips. Furrowing his brows, Alastor turned to see the figure. Frowning, he immediately sent a stunning spell and then turned to his comrade, wanting nothing but to protect her, “Alice, out! Now! Send a patronus to Frank once yer safe, but leave this to me.”

When: April 2nd, 1979 Where: The Ministry Who: @madeye-mccdy​

Amelia still had that feeling of frustration boiling under her skin, and all the things she’d been working on, she couldn’t help feeling like there had to be something else, there had to be something else they could do. Truthfully, she was worried and hated not knowing the next step or solution. Could they get rid of Dumbledore out of The Order? Could they back someone who would make more sense for Minister?

Deciding that maybe Alastor Moody would have some advice, or at least some words for her, Amelia made her way down the hall. She knew that even if he didn’t like her questions or her frustration, at least maybe he could tell her what options there might be, or even just tell her to shut up. Either way, it was better than just letting the thoughts roll around in her head.

Knocking on his door, Amelia didn’t even wait more than a beat before she opened it, clearing her throat. “Is it okay if I come in?” She asked, “I have some questions and I need some advice, and I think you might be able to at least, well, humor me in this, please.”

.

After the Valentine’s Ball fiasco, Moody had been juggling a balance of recovery and fulfilling his role within the Aurors, as many were injured and the Minister lay on his deathbed. Not only this, but there were various tensions within The Order. Some, including himself (albeit not as grand), were guilty of not completely trusting Dumbledore as their leader; some, desired a way out of their alliance completely due to their newfound chance at life.

While an upcoming election loomed over their heads, there were all of these aspects in the air as well. Thus, after making his way from the hospital and getting a new leg fashioned by goblins, Alastor threw himself into his work. As the world grew more chaotic around them, there needed to be a thread of calm and collectivism. Perhaps it was because Moody knew much of their fates, therefore, could keep a level head and continue his work. Or perhaps, it was all he could think to do.

That is, until Amelia Bones made her way into his office without even a beat between her knocking and the door opening, “Make yerself at home,” Moody commented lightly before giving a nod, “At least,” he made himself comfortable at his desk.

´ ･ .  ✶ –––––––––––––––

“Who said I had to dress up for anyone?” she bit back with a snarky grin. “Or should I ask you who you’re all pretty and kilted up for in return? Showing all that leg like a right harlot.” Emmeline had always had a special bond with Alastor ––– one that she held dear to her heart. In certain ways, he was almost like the father figure she’d always wanted and needed in her life. Well, a scar-addled father figure that grumped and grumbled like a disgruntled grizzly bear, but cared immensely, nevertheless. “I know a number of us that would do a far better job than that joke.” Not herself, of course, Merlin fucking forbid. 

“Aw. Was that a compliment? Just wait until I tell the other two, they’ll be tickled pink over that.” Though, really, she knew exactly what her boss was saying. He, more than anyone, knew what a cohesive unit could achieve, especially in matters such as their current operation.

The coded mention of Snape had her raising her brow, however. “When you say words, do you really mean it, or did you toss the sod around a bit?” Biting at her bottom lip for a spell, she turned her gaze back toward Alastor. “Should we even be trusting Dumbledore at this point?” It was a bold claim to make, both in public and in front of her fellow auror. He and Dumbledore were friends, after all. Good ones, at that. 

Emmeline gripped her drink tighter in her fingers, let out another short sigh, and gave a swift nod of agreement after a beat. Truthfully, she didn’t trust Snape either. It was a good call, and she knew it. “Yeah, ‘course. You got it. I’ll watch him like a hawk. Anything else?” 

.

The snarky grin Emmeline gave Alastor in return made him chuckle. Throughout the years, Moody had seen and caught on to a lot more than he let others know - even before the magical eye. And while he held back on outright acting on his admiration and care for others out of preservation, the truth was, he cared quite deeply. And Emmeline was no exception. Before Tonks, Emmeline was one of the first he took under his wing as though a family member, “Harlot?” he laughed outright, “Nothing wrong with a bit o’ Scotts pride now, eh?” the Auror let the giddiness pass as quick as it came, folding his arms across his chest as he looked over to her, “Lucky for us, things can be different this go ‘round.”

“Tickled pink!” the joy in Moody’s voice returned, laughing a bit more at that. This new reality pushed him back into not only familiar territory with all of his prior pupils, but as well as a second chance to live that life a little more happily than before. And, for once, Moody thought it would be good to let those war-trodden walls fall for better moments such as these, “As if they’d believe it.”

As Emmeline caught onto his coded mention of Severus and ow quickly she saw through his meaning, Alastor shrugged with a hint of a smirk, “Might’ve given him a good toss or two - and it may not be the only time I do,” his eyes then went to meet hers, sighing slightly. Emmeline wasn’t wrong; and many were thinking just as she was. And while the Headmaster was his friend, there was also a bit of doubt in himself, “We can trust the goal he’s always aiming towards...but maybe not the path he has in mind to get there...”

Moody was proud of Emmeline for taking on the task, shaking his head, “Not unless there’s anything else on your mind. You can come to me about anything, eh?”

★

“I don’t think there’s more fire, just nothing tempering it. She can’t imagine anything I can’t protect her from or any hurt her Daddy can’t fix in a heartbeat.” Andromeda’s smile was bittersweet. It was that innocence she wanted to fight to protect, but the same innocence that made parenting in general so terrifying. She gave him a small smile and nod of thanks for the sympathy. It was clear that it wasn’t something either of them was comfortable with, though, “I don’t know. It’s possible. There weren’t that many people left on our side, in the end. Not outside of the children.” And wasn’t that a heavy thought?

“Seven,” She confirmed with a heavy sigh. “I have to assume for the power of the number.” she couldn’t fully wrap her head around what splitting one’s soul really meant, but if it sickened someone as experienced as Alastor, she didn’t want to understand. She stumbled over her words slightly when Alastor got to his feet, but after seeing what he was doing she understood and kept going. It felt like a weight off her shoulders, telling this to someone who might be able to do something about it.

“Just Emmeline. And a bit to Remus, but not everything and I genuinely thought he already knew. But not to Dumbledore, no.” She chewed on the inside of her cheek, not sure how to ask her next question. “Alastor…a few people I’ve spoken to have been…less than positive about their faith in Dumbledore. I was never close enough to know what was going on behind the scenes. Should I bring this all to him, or…?”

.

With such loving parents, Alastor had no doubt that Tonks felt that was as a child. It was almost a reassurance to hear that, while they had lost a valuable Order member with being thrusted unexpectedly back into this time, at least she was happy, “I’m sure on many levels, that still holds true. Even when she was an Auror,” he was grateful when Andromeda didn’t linger on his sympathies. Alastor was still relatively new to all of that. And it didn’t help that Andromeda confirmed his suspicions that not any were left after the war. Even weeks prior to his own death, Moody recognized the sheer decline in their own numbers and support compared to the other side with Death Eaters and dark creatures alike, “What of the Weasley clan?”

“Splitting your soul that many times...” Alastor lingered on such a terrible thought. In all his years, he knew Voldemort was capable of horrible spells and curses, but nothing that would detriment his own power, “No wonder the ugly git didn’t have a nose,” he practically spat, remembering that bolt of green light seconds before his own fall. “Those two are a good pair to trust - and I’m sure they’ll keep that information to themselves, no matter the cost,” he nodded, completely understanding their views, but paused heavily before continuing in a grave tone, “Would you mind keeping it to those few until we get a fair few more answers? Dumbledore’s been vague, even with me, and I’m not sure how I feel about that this time ‘round...”

***

“Are you really going to crack a joke when your fucking leg is hanging off?” Caradoc said and took his eyes off of Moody’s injury to look the older man in his face. Shame suddenly flooded through Caradoc as he did. He doubted that the Order would have predicted an attack such as this but if he had gone to meetings maybe he would have been more prepared. He would at least know where the others were. Had they all been in this room or had they been planning something to do with the Ministry? He hated being in the dark. But that had been his own stubbornness that caused it.

And his guilt only worsened when Alastor seemed more worried about him then the fact he was laying there bleeding. He didn’t deserve concern. Especially when he has been avoiding anyone to do with the Order as if his life depended on it. Which, he supposed, it did in a way. But was his life worth more than what he felt was his duty? He knew the answer. But fear kept clouding his mind everytime he tried to think of it.

“Can you stand? The floo might be a better option. Apparating it…it’ll hurt like a bitch but if you can’t stand it’s the only option we have.” He couldn’t keep the worry from his voice while he tried his best to stop the bleeding but he had a feeling it was useless. He wasn’t a healer. And he needed to get Alastor to one quickly. 

.

“Well, I’m not going to sit here in a puddle of my own tears, now am I?” Alastor laughed, his teeth gritting through the pain. This was nothing new to him. War. Violence. Secrets. Meddling wizards. It was as though he was born for it, raised in such an Auror-prevalent family. It made situations like this easier to digest and figure to what to do to either get out, or get the mission done. And now, looking up at Caradoc, Moody shook his head, gripping the other’s arm, “I’d rather get the chance to hex one of those damned masked cowards on my way out,” he grinned, almost wanting any bit of small revenge he could in the chaos.

However, knowing full-well of Caradoc’s demise, Moody thought better of it. For today, at least. The young man had gone through such trauma in that other lifetime, with a fall that was unworthy of such a wonderful young wizard. Cradoc deserved this second chance to live how he wanted. Wincing, Alastor took a sharp inhale of a breath  as he tried to stand, “If you think you can carry my heavy ass with me leaning on ye, then I can,” Moody laughed behind the pain, leaning on Caradoc heavily as he balanced on his one good leg, “Let’s find a working floo then, Dearborn. Then get the Hell out of Saint Mungo’s, ye hear me?”

***

“And how does he have skin in the game? Last time I saw him we were at school together and he was in with that awful Slytherin crowd.” It was frustrating to Marlene to be so out of the loop. It felt like everyone knew more than her and had a future she was not privy to. She didn’t know who had changed sides or who hadn’t, except for the information she’d extracted from Peter. “Peter told me what he knows but I can’t piece it all together. I know Snape was a doubt agent but-” she stopped talking, frustration come through “-none of it makes sense! It feels like everyone has changed. And they’ve left me behind.” It was the first time she’d expressed those feelings to anyone, but she knew Moody would understand. That was if he was still the same man she’d known. She wondered how much longer he’d lived past her death. 

“Dedication and a scowl I can work with. Sounds like me actually. The greasy hair on the other hand… I hope I can’t be accused of that.”

.

How did Severus come to have skin in the game of being on their side, working with The Order? Moody had to admit, that was not a question he knew the answer to and something that echoed in his mind quite often whenever the Auror spotted the snake - even in that prior lifetime, “With this mission at least, he and the Malfoys were close. It’d be safe to a’ume that he was cordial with Narcissa, if not friends,” Alastor’s eyes flickered over the crowd to see if he could spot him, but sighed when he didn’t, “As for everything else, he was an integral member in the Order, according to Dumbledore. And, from what he told me in my interrogation of him, it was justified,” even if he had no idea why the snake had changed sides.

“Indeed, he was. Proven to be more effective than others as well,” he said smugly, remembering when he found out how Peter had betrayed his friends and their cause during the first war. Alastor sighed, putting a hand on her shoulder, “Unfortunately, the world doesn’t stop turning, even if we’ve met an untimely death,” it sounded harsher than Moody wanted it to be, amending the statement with, “Your feelings are completely valid, McKinnon. It seems we have to play catch up or push forward without them. Unfair, really. But no matter what, I’ll be here to help ye.”

“Not in the slightest,” he chuckled lightly and continued, “Out of everyone, I think you’d be best to keep him focused without dredging up the past.”

´ ･ .  ✶ –––––––––––––––

“Please. Don’t make me vomit, Alastor,” she drawled ––– her nose scrunching up at the sight of Minchium himself a safe distance away from them, mingling as though he had not a care in the world. “He’s really laying it on thick, huh? I’m so tired of this bullshit Ministry pandering.” They’d dealt with more than enough with Fudge. When was it going to end? When were Ministry officials going to take things seriously? 

“Yeah. I’ve got it. To be honest, I’m glad I’m with them both.” She didn’t want to outright add ‘over anyone else in the Order,’ though it was heavily implied. It wasn’t that she didn’t trust them or their abilities, because she did ––– she knew how bloody strong and capable the lot of them were ––– it was just easier with Remus and Sirius. To be with people who had been through the same tragedies and fights and hurt she had on top of everything else. And she also knew if anyone understood that, it’d be Alastor. He’d been through it all too, just as they had. 

When he began to whisper, Emmeline was sure to only look at him out of the corner of her eye ––– the rest of her body relaxed and casual as she listened to his every word. “I know what you mean,” she agreed quietly. “You got anything in particular you want me watching out for?” 

.

Moody couldn’t help but chuckle at Emmeline’s retort, “Well, if not for Minchium, and certainly not my handsome face, who for then?” he teased only slightly. Emmeline had every reason to disregard the question, but it was pleasant to be back in his prior role, being beside his pupils on missions once again. When she turned her attention to the Minister, Alastor nodded “I think we all are...but, what would be your solution, Emmeline? One of us in their place?” and if so...who? Alastor pondered silently.

“Good,” Moody began. If there was anyone he was glad had been paired up, it was this trio. The three had a long history, even into that previous lifetime. Above all else, Moody understood that success in a mission like the one they were tasked with only worked in their favor with comradery, “You’ll need that familiar and good dynamic to pull everything off. Out of everyone, I’m glad it’s the three of you matched up for such a task.”

“A certain snake...” Alasor replied simply, expecting she would know he meant Severus by that term, “While I may have had my wods with him, nothing about this new reality sits right,” he confessed, “Make sure he stays in line with our objectives....especially if Dumbledore entrusts him with his old role again,” Moody sighed. While he knew his old friend had good intentions with only wanting to rid their world of Voldemort, some of the steps he’d taken in that previous life could be prevented now, if they could help it, “There’s no one I trust more than you with this, Emmeline.”

Gideon didn’t want to meet with Moody. Or rather he was nervous to meet with the man. He had heard about what happened to Moody and had even had a hand in helping him after the explosion a few days ago but he doubted that injuries were what Moody wanted from him. He was deep in the Order and Gideon used to be right there with him. He had been devoted entirely to the Order and he should have been right there with Moody once more but he held back. Thoughts of the life he could have had had he left before kept flooding his mind. 

He didn’t consider himself a coward. He thought he stood for what was right. He helped where he could. Still he wasn’t doing all he could for the cause. He had been decidedly distant from life since coming back. Almost as if he were afraid to rejoin it. It wasn’t like him but the continued absence of Fabian weighed heavily on his mind and some part of him wanted to run away and find whatever happiness he could before fate caught up with him once more and righted the wrong of whatever magic had brought him back. 

He almost didn’t walk into the cafe upon arriving and he was almost twenty minutes late before taking the seat across from Moody. “Forgive my lateness. I got caught up.” He gave no further excuse as he glanced down at the menu. “What did you want to talk about?”

.

It was the first time in this new reality that Alastor felt any semblance of normality - all stemming from the fact that he was without a limb, once again, and limping on a new prosthetic. He had to admit, before, his balance had been off after so many years of relying on such a device. Yet, it still wasn’t the crutch he was used to. Bitter about the Ball, and the state of the Minister, Moody knew he needed a good cuppa and conversation with his pupils from so long ago. One of them, was Gideon; ever thankful for his help after that damned explosion.

Although, Moody couldn’t say he was surprised to find himself waiting on the young man. This new life was taking its toll on many of The Order members. Many wishing not to return. While Moody couldn’t convince everyone, nor had the right to, he could at least do his due diligence as a leader and help those who weren’t rejoining the cause by assuring the firm hands he’d have in it and alleviate any guilt. This may not have been his tactic previously, but now, seeing the lives of so many he admired returned, Alastor could empathize with taking the second chance they were given, and running with it.

Stretching his leg, Moody caught on quickly to that familiar phantom pain, gazing at it and not looking up as Gideon finally made his way in until his voice brokw his concentration. Giving the other a moment to relax, Moody sat forward in his chair, folding his hands together, “Just to check up on ya lad. Surely, there ought to be thought plaguin’ yer mind.” 

***

Marlene was glad to have gotten away with her joke, grinning when he laughed instead of chastising her - not that she had expected any differently. “No, we wouldn’t want that, our fearless leader blushing like a child.” Although Moody wasn’t technically the leader of the Order, now that seeds of doubt in Dumbledore had been planted in Marlene’s mind by Peter, she was starting to think of him as such. She certainly trusted Moody more than she trusted Dumbledore after what she’d learnt. And while Alastor couldn’t always tell her everything, she knew when he didn’t he had good reason not to. Sometimes it felt like Dumbledore was just playing games with all of them. 

“No, not playing distraction, just needed to blend in and as you say - a mission is a mission.” It was nice to dress up though. It wasn’t something she did often, and having an excuse to get together with her friends and do their hair and clothes nicely wasn’t something they often had nowadays. It felt like being back at Hogwarts. There always seemed to be big parties back then, or at least something to dress up for at Christmas. “I will still be keeping the snake in line though don’t you worry. I’m not going to lie, I feel a little bit uneasy being with him and Narcissa. I never like to be outnumbered. But I’m sure its nothing I can’t handle. I guess I just have to trust Dumbledore that he’s not setting me up… again.” She still hadn’t been able to forget what Peter had told her, that Dumbledore had been the one to instruct him to inform Voldemort on her and her family’s whereabouts. 

.

Alastor’s demeanor kept calm as Marlene remained by his side. It had been so long since her untimely death, those good memories had faded into the back, replaced by fear and paranoia. For a moment, it made him wonder how members such as himself, Sirius, Emmeline, and others who had to continue on without them would have been if things had gone differently. If the twins, McKinnons, Caradoc, nearly the whole Bones family, among others, had lived. How differently the outcome of the war would have been. Yet, instead of staying on that train of thought, Moody turned to her as Marlene continued on, “More like a tomato than a child,” his laugh lingered in the air a bit longer.

Although, the ‘fearless leader’ bit did catch his attention. Ever since being dropped into this new reality, many had their qualms with the Headmaster, voicing their concerns and lack of trust to Moody, himself. A deputy, at best. Part of him didn’t know if he wanted that responsibility, yet, another part, desperately wanted a captain that believed their memories and information. Moody was rather done with the riddles, lies, manipulation, vagueness, or simply put: evasion of what needed to be done. But Albus was his friend. One of the few he’d made in that previous lifetime. If anything, they needed him, whether they liked it or not.

Nodding at her explanation, Moody took another sip from his flask. Another soldier, ready to do what needed to be done. At least they had that with this odd of a mission. Even when she’d been set up beforehand, “He’s the only one who’s got skin in this game, McKinnon. And, it takes a lot for Severus to be shocked. He genuinely was when I told him that Narcissa had been arrested,” Alastor sighed, “I think the worst you’ll get from him is his dedication to get this over with, a scowl, and that greasy hair. Still, best to keep him in line.”

★

“She’s perfectly fine. Doesn’t remember a thing. Just a normal five-year-old. Or, well. Her normal anyway. Which is even more of a handful than she was as a young woman.” Andromeda chuckled with a tease. Talking about her now was easy, simple. She shook her head at the offer of tea. “Perhaps in a bit. After we get through all this.” The way Alastor sat down so heavily confirmed for her that it was the right choice. Talking about Teddy stung, but it was something she was growing accustomed to. “They named him after Ted. Teddy, we called him. Metamorphamagus, like her. Such a sweet baby. I wish I’d gotten to see him grow up. There seems to be a cutoff date with these memories. Unless I died in my sleep, everything stopped New Years going into ‘99.”

But she needed to focus. They were talking about Harry. “His stories were definitely a bit darker than I would recommend for a child that could actually understand what he was saying. But an infant? Harry would have read a textbook. The stories were for himself.” She listened intently to Alastor’s explanation of what horcruxes were and her frown deepened. Pieces of Voldemort’s soul? It made sense, but it sent a chill down her spine. “Multiple. I don’t know how many there are now, but Harry said there were seven in all by the end.”

Andromeda fell quiet at the question of specifics. “I don’t know a lot of details, no. He…wasn’t ready to go into it all, and I didn’t press. I more know the questions he asked me. I know he had to break into Bellatrix’s vault to get one, and that Sirius’ brother is somehow tied up in another. And…I know a few don’t exist yet, in this time. That snake of his was one, and…” Andromeda licked her lips. It almost felt wrong, laying out all of Harry’s secrets. “He accidentally made Harry himself one, that night in Godrick’s Hollow.”

.

Hearing that Tonks didn’t remember was a relief for Alastor. Not that he expected someone so young would, but he wanted a better life for Nymphadora that wasn’t filled with war...giving up so much of her life at such a young age. This, as bizarre and seemingly awful some of this new reality was, at least gave many a second chance. A better chance. “I can only imagine. Fitting she had even more of that fire in her when she was younger,” he nodded at Andromeda’s response to the offer, letting himself enjoy these little moments he had more than in that other life. So much so, that he sensed talking about her grandson (how he was so easily taken away from their arms) wasn’t easy, “Sorry fer your loss...” Moody said quietly, retaining the next bit of information Andromeda supplied, “Wonder if there was anyone else we know who has memories up to that point too,” he mused.

When the focus turned to Harry, Alastor became sucked in entirely - lingering on each and every word. The stories were for himself. Ater living through two wars himself, Moody could understand that, “Everyone has different ways of coping,”  he agreed before the color left his face, “Seven?” A hand came up, trying to relax he lines of his face as they furrowed into a scowl. How could someone split their soul seven times? What kind of life was that? Concerned, troubled, and nauseated were a few of the emotions running through the Auror.

As Andromeda began to say the specifics, Moosy got up in a flash to the other side of a room. Finding a parchment and divided the page by thirds. One with a list and spaces between two separate dates. The year they were were in and 1995 - the year of Voldemort’s return. Quickly, he scribbled the info she provided, stopping briefly at the fact that Harry was one. Yet, he pushed those emotions down to process later, sighing heavily, “Damn...” he muttered, knowing this meant that Snape knew much more and that they’d have to speak once again. Turning to Andromeda, curious, Moody asked, “Have you spoken to anyone else about this? To Dumbledore?”