Ch. 681Gaunt House
Key Plot Points and Events
- Umbridge encounters Bellatrix, who tortures her with the Cruciatus Curse. The Daily Prophet publishes a photo of the event, but not the one showing Umbridge's agony.
- Kyle visits Umbridge at St. Mungo's with Fudge. Umbridge is sedated due to her distressed state.
- Hogwarts students discuss the newspaper's report and upcoming exams. Quidditch finals are postponed.
- Dumbledore and Snape visit Gaunt House, where they find a Horcrux ring. Dumbledore is temporarily controlled by the ring's magic, and Snape kicks him away from it.
Character Developments
- Umbridge's opposition to Death Eaters puts her in danger. She is tortured by Bellatrix and becomes a target for Voldemort.
- Fudge remains calm about Voldemort's return and Bellatrix's actions, accepting them as inevitable.
- Dumbledore's obsession with finding Horcruxes leads him to Gaunt House. He is briefly controlled by the magic of the Horcrux ring.
- Snape, despite his loyalty to Voldemort, protects Dumbledore from the Horcrux's influence.
Significant Themes
- The consequences of Umbridge's defiance against Voldemort and Death Eaters.
- Dumbledore's single-minded pursuit of Horcruxes and its potential dangers.
- The complex loyalty of Snape, who protects Dumbledore despite their differing allegiances.
Character Interactions
- Kyle learns about Umbridge's encounter with Bellatrix from Chris.
- Fudge and Kyle visit Umbridge at St. Mungo's, where she is sedated due to distress.
- Dumbledore and Snape work together to find Horcruxes, with Snape ultimately protecting Dumbledore from a Horcrux's influence.