Dark Ascendancy | Tomarry

| Shadows of the Past

The aftermath of the battle with the rebels weighed heavily on Harry. Although he had become an integral part of Tom's regime, the faces of his old friends haunted him. He could see them in his dreams, their expressions of betrayal and sadness a constant reminder of the path he had chosen.

Despite this, Harry continued to work tirelessly. He spent long hours at the Ministry, ensuring that their new laws and policies were enforced. The wizarding world was slowly, but surely, adapting to their rule. However, there were still whispers of dissent, murmurs of rebellion.

One evening, Tom summoned Harry to a private meeting in his chambers. Harry arrived to find Tom standing by the window, gazing out at the darkening sky.

"Harry," Tom said without turning, his voice thoughtful. "I sense a restlessness in you."

Harry hesitated. "I've been... thinking about the past. About the people we've lost."

Tom turned to face him, his eyes piercing. "The past is a weight that can drag us down. You must let it go."

"I know," Harry replied, his voice filled with determination. "But it's not always easy."

Tom approached him, placing a hand on his shoulder. "You have done what was necessary. You have proven your loyalty and your strength. Do not doubt yourself."

Harry nodded, feeling a renewed sense of resolve. "You're right. I won't let the past hinder our future."

Tom's expression softened slightly. "Good. Because I have a new task for you."

Harry listened as Tom outlined their next move: a mission to secure a powerful magical artifact rumored to be hidden in the Forbidden Forest. The artifact, if acquired, would solidify their power and eliminate any remaining threats.

"You will lead a team into the forest," Tom instructed. "Retrieve the artifact and bring it back to me."

Harry nodded. "I will. We won't fail."

That night, Harry gathered a team of trusted Death Eaters, including Bellatrix, and set out for the Forbidden Forest. As they entered the dense, dark woods, Harry felt a sense of unease. The forest was filled with dangers, both known and unknown.

They navigated through the twisting paths, using their wands to light the way. Harry's mind was focused on the mission, but he couldn't shake the feeling of being watched.

Suddenly, a group of centaurs emerged from the shadows, blocking their path. Their leader, a tall and imposing figure, stepped forward.

"Why have you come here, dark wizards?" the centaur demanded.

Harry stepped forward, his wand at the ready. "We seek an artifact. We have no quarrel with you."

The centaur's eyes narrowed. "This forest is not yours to plunder. Leave now, or face the consequences."

Harry felt a surge of frustration. They couldn't afford any delays. "We will not leave without what we came for."

Bellatrix cackled, raising her wand. "Let's teach these creatures a lesson."

Before she could act, Harry raised his hand to stop her. "Wait. Let me speak."

He turned back to the centaur leader. "We have no desire to harm you or your kind. We seek only the artifact. Allow us to take it, and we will leave in peace."

The centaur regarded him for a long moment before nodding. "Very well. But know this: if you betray our trust, there will be no mercy."

Harry inclined his head in agreement. "We understand."

The centaurs led them deeper into the forest, to a hidden grove where the artifact was said to be kept. As they approached, Harry could feel the powerful magic emanating from it.

The artifact was a small, intricately carved chest, glowing with a faint, otherworldly light. Harry stepped forward, carefully lifting it from its resting place. The moment he touched it, he felt a surge of power, almost overwhelming in its intensity.

With the artifact secured, they made their way back to the Ministry. Harry could sense the significance of their find and knew it would play a crucial role in their plans.

When they returned, Tom was waiting for them. His eyes gleamed with approval as Harry presented the artifact.

"Well done, Harry," Tom said, his voice filled with satisfaction. "This will ensure our dominance."

Harry felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. "What is our next move?"

Tom's gaze was intense. "Now, we use this power to crush any remaining opposition and solidify our rule once and for all."