Dawn was about to break when a smear of sickly green light appeared at the edge of the horizon, slowly devouring the still-dark sky.
A vicious wind howled over Malfoy Manor, yet it could not sweep away the thin gray mist hanging in the air.
On the terrace atop the manor, Voldemort narrowed his eyes as he gazed toward the breaking dawn, his voluminous black robes snapping in the wind.
"It is time—"
Not even the roaring wind could drown out Voldemort's murmured words. He turned and looked behind him—
Lucius Malfoy and his wife Narcissa, Old Nott, Crabbe, Goyle, McNeil, Everly, Greengrass.
His most loyal Death Eaters had all gathered here.
"Fourteen years ago, we suffered defeat. That defeat forced me—and you, my friends—to pay a terrible price."
A slight stir ran through the Death Eaters. They lowered their heads, not daring to meet the Dark Lord's scarlet gaze.
"Our great cause suffered a setback. Those despicable, hypocritical, incompetent wizards seized the stage through our failure and freely mocked our glorious dream."
Voldemort's lipless mouth moved. His voice was soft, as though he were mourning something.
"But those cowards will ultimately come to understand that Voldemort cannot be defeated. He will lead those unyielding people who dare resist to reclaim the glory that belongs to pure-bloods. Now—"
Voldemort's voice suddenly rose, overpowering the wind. In an instant, the air was filled with chilling murderous intent.
"Go, my friends. It is time to make people feel fear once more. I will wait here for you to bring me good news!"
The Death Eaters said nothing. After Lucius, at their head, bowed to Voldemort, his figure vanished into thin air.
"Now—"
Voldemort smiled at the remaining Death Eaters.
"You need to wait a while."
Pop!
With a crisp crack, Lucius arrived