Ouch! Bloody hell, grumbled Dirk Cresswell.

The five runaways trudged through a forest, wearily looking for a place to rest for the day. I suppose here will be a good enough place, if any, sighed Ted, dropping his bags. His companions did the same, and Dean stretched his aching back muscles. The goblins and Dirk set up tents, as Ted and Dean went to find some food. Watch your step there, lad, warned Ted, pointing at a tree root. Dean looked down and thanked the older man, and continued walking. Hows your family, sir? asked Dean politely, having known Tonks and Remus himself. Ted paled slightly, looking sad. He stuffed his hands in his trouser pockets. I dont know Andromeda she told me to go on the run once she caught wind that they were looking for me said Id be safer this way, he mumbled, barely loud enough for Dean to hear. Tonks shes having a baby, andMerlin, I had to leave to keep them out of danger its bad enough Tonks and Remus were in the Order, butme being Muggle-born Dean nodded, scanning the forest ground for any animals that might be around. He spotted a rabbit, and whipped out his wand, shooting a spell towards it. The little animal was too quick, and easily outrun his Stunning spell. Bloody hell, Dean cursed. Its okay, son. Theres ought to be more around here somewhere. Youve just got to started Ted, shooting a spell at another rabbit, catching it squarely in the chest. Look carefully, he finished, grinning broadly. The two of them went back to camp. Ah, youre back, Ted, said Gornuk. With food, I hope? Yes, with food, Gornuk, replied Ted, smiling. The five of them sat around a campfire, eating. Dirk talked quietly to Gornuk as Ted, Dean, and Griphook continued eating. And so bloody Voldemor DIRK, NO! roared Gornuk. Ted and Dean jumped up, wands at the ready. Dirks eyes widened at his mistake, and took out his own wand. Oh Merlin, Im sorry, mates, he apologized. Shut it! hissed Ted, his eyes scanning the trees around them. It was unnervingly quiet, until there was a faint pop. Dean looked nervously at Ted, who returned the gaze. Something caught the younger mans eye, and he turned around to find Scabior standing behind the five of them, bearing a sneering grin. Boo.

Suddenly, Snatchers appeared around them, wearing the same nasty grin. Dirk, Dean, and Ted shot several curses at their enemies. STUPEFY! yelled Dirk, throwing a Stunning spell at a nearby Snatcher. Out of the corner of his eye, Dean saw Griphook and Gornuk jumping at another Snatcher, who he recognized as Roukin. Transmorgi started Ted, but was cut off. Two burly looking men grabbed hold of Dean, pushing him against the ground. Dirt got into the boys eyes, and he squinted to see the wellbeing of his companions. He saw Ted Tonkss body laying a few feet away, and Dean felt a pang in his chest. TED! he cried, before one of the men holding him down covered his mouth. Dirk was being held as well, but was attempting to resist capture. You cant take me! he roared. Scabior turned on him, pointing his wand at Cresswell. Avada Kedavra! he shouted. Suddenly, Dirks body went limp, his eyes rolling upward. He slumped onto the ground, mouth slightly open. Dean looked on in shock. Beside him, Gornuk was also laying still on the ground. Dean could tell that the goblin was deadhe showed no signs of life. Griphook looked at his fellow goblin with the slightest hint of remorse, and gave into his capturers. Scabior looked menacingly at the two survivors, and kneeled down next to Dean, who was still being held to the ground. Whats your name, boy? he snapped. For a minute, Dean didnt reply. Griphook whispered to him quietly, Give in, boy. Being rebellious wont help you. Thomas. Dean Thomas, Dean finally said. Scabior turned to one of his goons. Check im on the list, Roukin. The Snatcher obediently did so, and scanned their long list of wizards. It says ere that is mums a witch, but no one know bout the father, said the Snatcher. Scabiors beady eyes narrowed, and he crossed his arms. Well deal with him in a second. What about you, goblin? Whas your name? Griphook looked at the man with narrowed eyes. Griphook. Scabior regarded the goblin with a menacing gaze. And what might you be doin out ere with all these runaways, instead o back in your safe little bank, eh? he sneered. Why Im here is none of your concern, human.

The Snatcher looked angrily at the short creature. You dare speak to me like that?! he screeched, before slapping Griphook. Dean winced, but saw no emotion on the goblins face. Well take care of you, scum!