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dansnaturepictures · 4 years ago

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My eighth wildlife and wildlife and photography highlights of 2020 blog-Our trip to Devon and Cornwall in August

Dipper, Chough, Manx Shearwater and more

You may recall that a permanent fixture in these highlights blogs every year has been our trips to Rutland Water to attend the British Birdwatching Fair. The organisers took a correct, timely and classy decision to cancel it this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It would have not been possible to do safely this year given the nature, popularity and international scope of the event. I did miss going to Rutland it was my first summer since 2007 I didn’t go to Rutland or the wider East Midlands, but I enjoyed where I could getting involved and also donating to the virtual Bird Fair they held instead which by checking the schedules and watching talks and things I felt very much the same exciting vibes I got going to the Bird Fair every year since I was kid.

But I still had the Friday and Monday booked off work for when it would have been on. So as restrictions allowed us at that stage we booked to go to Devon for three nights to visit certain West Country wildlife rich and beautiful locations we knew. Something I felt very excited about I do love this area of the country what a bonus to get to go back after doing so last September going to Cornwall and this and last January in Gloucestershire my last trip away. It was nice to just stay somewhere else other than home for the first time in five months for me safely. On the way on the Friday in and out of sunshine we took in wonderful views of the countryside, most notably seeing the famous Stonehenge in Wiltshire a place I had seen before from the car but I had never managed or even really tried to photograph it so I did that that day I just managed to get my camera ready in time to take pictures of it through the car window including the first in this photoset a fun moment making me excited for my next West Country adventure it’s such a great staging post in any journey there.

When we arrived and settled into the lovely cottage we stayed in in a working farm environment, we ventured to three lovely lakes in a nice light evening they have here. It was such a beautiful walk, I took in brilliant views over this typical Devon countryside which I love. It was particularly a very nice night of flowers and insects a botanist’s dream a little bit, we saw so many wonderful flowers including late foxgloves in the rain, lovely rosebay willowherb, some striking orange and pink ones nice to see them with raindrops on and insects flying around. The orange ones I found out later on were montbretia. As we drove in on a day that had its fair share of rain it was comical to see little makeshift “rivers” flowing along the roads and lanes so it was nice to capture this in a photo too. During the walk it rained that night just a bit and the sun shone, I looked over the fields seeing the dark clouds behind and thought to myself that’s where the rainbow will go and I said that to my Mum and like happened earlier this year surely enough a rainbow did then appear right on that patch and it looked glorious I took the second picture in this photoset of it. A nice addition to my best ever year of rainbows fittingly given what they came to mean in 2020 and a beautiful start to the holiday I felt very relaxed that day especially compared to weeks that proceeded it. I also saw a couple of Wrens that night which was very nice as I felt in the heart of Devon countryside I really tasted that in a sense and embraced by it. A lovely moth a Yellow-barred Brindle came in that night showing good continuity from them coming in at home the weeks leading up to the trip away.

We started the Saturday away with a walk up the lane from where we’re staying, it started rainy and then got sunny, we enjoyed some stunning Devonshire views of lovely countryside which was a great start to the day alongside being very relaxed at being away and excited. On this walk like I did throughout the day I saw more rosebay willowherb. As the sun really came out I was delighted to see beautiful Swallows flying very close overhead and landing on the wire, a special moment with a great bird. A young Robin outside the cottage was very lovely to see and I saw and photographed one at Fingle Bridge later on that day which was memorable. I also saw nice butterflies Speckled Wood and Large White on this walk. I took third picture in this photoset of a view on this walk.

We then went to Fingle Bridge the main place we wanted to come this trip away to search for one of my favourite birds the Dipper. Here it was nice to see Grey Wagtail, Red Admiral, Large White and Southern Hawker as we took in stunning views of a beautiful habitat I love so much gushing water flowing over rocks through a valley in the woods a habitat I find very delicious. I also felt I went back in time and saw some Silver-washed Fritillaries strong butterflies for the habitat one who’s season had long since ended at home in Hampshire. Whilst in Hampshire as I said in my last highlights blog at this stage I was taking in lots of sights and signs of autumn there were only some with one tree in autumn colour here. The flower sightings the night before and that day showed the season in Devon was slightly behind and a little more how the year normally unfolds actually.

Our quest to see a Dipper at Fingle Bridge after walking around was beginning to look a bit fruitless, but I kept saying we must never give up and all we needed was a moment of magic to see one. Luck changes in seconds with these birds. We came across an angler who we spoke to at a safe social distance as we were eating one or two wild raspberries and he had some too and I had some blackberries further on. We asked if he’d seen a Dipper on his travels and he had as well as Kingfisher too the Dipper recently and he told us roughly how far along. It was a very pleasant chat. We walked on checking the river at all times and we saw a Dipper! Very likely the same one. That one moment had happened and I felt so happy. We got brilliant views of it on the rocks in the water and it was very interesting to see it flying as I had done before and see it swimming a bit which I never had before really in the flesh. I got my first photo of an adult Dipper since 2014 the fourth in this photoset, we had seen the bird we had come for as we had here in 2015 which meant it was mission accomplished and we could feel anything that happened on the trip now was a bonus and it was a relief to see this my 12th ever occasion of seeing a Dipper.

It was quite an emotional moment really. 2020 looked like a year we could possibly see a Dipper when we went to North Wales in June we had the right habitat and had locations where we looked for them there in 2016 but that was rightly postponed due to the virus at that stage. I then thought and even said I would not see a Dipper this year and I accepted that. But then the Bird Fair was also cancelled and we managed to sneak a staying-away trip in to this area we love so much and Dipper was the bird we’d come for and we’d managed it which I loved. It was very thrilling to see this bird. 10 years on in very similar habitat (My first ever Dipper was at Exmoor’s Watersmeet which Fingle Bridge is like a Dartmoor version of) from seeing my first Dipper I was reminded why they are one of my favourite birds and how much I love it. Interestingly during my last time off work for more than one day before this my hot week off of day trips in Hampshire and most notably surrounding counties to it in June, on the Friday I watched Julia Bradbury’s ‘Walks with a View’ programme I think repeated where she walked Lynmouth to Watersmeet as part of her walk that episode and saw Dippers which made me very nostalgic this before I knew we’d get to go to Devon so it just made me feel very nice that. Year list wise it was a very important milestone being my 170th bird of 2020. A worthy bird to be the milestone which made me very happy. Equally I didn’t know if I’d reach 170 birds this year it’s been a crazy and restrictive (for the best for us all of course) year a figure it always feels smashing and I am proud to reach I’ve only achieved it six times so I felt happy. I came away once again with a very good impression of Fingle Bridge what a fantastic place it is, the woods and river habitat I just love so much. There’s also lots of nice picnic areas it’s a typical National Trust place so it was nice to see lots of people safely enjoying time outside this August it gave me great holiday vibes.

We then moved into Meldon Reservoir. At Fingle Bridge I had some therapeutic moments listening to and watching the water gush over rocks and falls, and I had very much the same here but in a different more open setting perhaps. Here I simply took in some of the greatest views I’ve seen this trip and this year so far it was exceptional. Typical national park views within Dartmoor. I had never seen anything like it being at a reservoir and dam really and walking along it. It was a wonderful walk through breathtaking countryside. I took the fifth picture in this photoset from here I enjoyed taking pictures there so much. I even managed a dip in the river myself when it turned out the circular route we did meant we had to cross a tributary to the stream a lovely holiday moment for the weekend. I saw Dartmoor ponies here and some Jackdaws which was nice. Being at a dam was so good also as I have seen in my previous visits especially north/mid Devon ones we can learn a lot from the South West about how to use renewable energy and put it into the landscape a wind turbine was visible in the distance too. Its landscape features so good for this. I know there are other uses for the reservoir obviously. So I really saw that up close and personal it’s something that has interested me since school renewable energy use and obviously we should all be interested in so I found that great that day. This was a walk at Meldon reservoir that really allowed me to take in great views and absolutely tire myself out which is what it’s all about for me. That day I also set my record for photos produced in one day producing over 60 which I would emulate the next day and in my Norfolk and Bushy Park trips this year.

On the Sunday we did something that was a surprise idea and something we did not expect to at all this long weekend, and made the trek from where we’re staying near to Oakhampton, Devon to Cape Cornwall and Botallack in the vicinity of Land’s End in Cornwall two standout locations of our wild Cornish September 2019 holiday to see if we could see two star birds there that we did last year which I wouldn’t see anywhere else this year another of my favourites the Chough and a favourite bird B lister for me the Manx Shearwater. Since 2016 the beginning of my working life holidays particularly as well as all time off have increased in importance for me with long summer holidays and the like no longer something I can enjoy. And the lineups in each year since, particularly 2018 and 2019 although 2017 taking in locations we already know well was good too have been amazing with so many memorable trips away from home and smashing stuff happening in them wildlife and landscape dominated and mostly both. In my 2019 holidays particularly the last to Cornwall I really realised how content I was going away to different locations in my own country and doing what I love wildlife watching and photography. So places like these I took to my heart. When we left Cornwall, doing a second trip to Cape Cornwall mostly to walk the dogs before we left due to practicalities and because we loved it so much, I sort of thought I treasured these places so much and I wouldn’t see them again for another three or four years if I was lucky. I said to my Dad before coming away at the possibility of if we didn’t see a Dipper the day before which we did in the end at Fingle Bridge in Devon our main bird target, maybe crossing the Cornish border to go to Boscastle where we’ve seen them before a little bit into Cornwall that would feel strange in a good way returning to Cornwall so soon. But to actually be going to the places we were at last year right at the end of Cornwall, in this crazy rollercoaster of a year was something else.

The day started in a wild way as I saw and photographed a spider in the bath in the cottage we stayed in a similar one to one I got a memorable photo of in my en suite at home on the second May bank holiday Monday. After a nice journey there as the sun came out which felt like going to Anglesey when we stayed in Snowdonia in 2016 for scale of a big journey within time away, in which we saw lots of birds of prey like Buzzard, Kestrel and maybe a Peregrine, we got here and took in stunning views of the dramatic coast in the sun and peak purple heather everywhere and reacquainted ourselves with the beautiful place Cape Cornwall. We did the same with the wildlife, seeing scores of Gannets young and old, Fulmar, Shag, Oystercatcher, Turnstone, get intimate moments with Herring and Great Black Backed Gulls, see another Buzzard and also see a little moth and a cricket which was nice. I enjoyed nice flowers there that day too.

I also saw a decent few butterflies at Cape Cornwall in perhaps the hottest weather we had all trip. It was nice for it to be and feel so hot and sunny after a wet start in Devon for us that day. This included Small Tortoiseshell, some Common Blues and most notably a smashing view of a Wall Brown. I finally got to see one and really make out its features this year one I had had two occasions of quick and flighty and quite distant views of prior to this point in 2020. I very much enjoyed seeing this beautiful mostly coastal butterfly for us up close and I liked taking a picture of it with my big lens with its wings closed.

At this stage in the walk like the Dipper the day before we had not seen a Chough and we were rather making hard work of doing so. I joked we were chuffed to see a Dipper that day’s yesterday but were we going to dip (out) on Chough today (to those who don’t know, “dip out” is a birdwatching term to mean you have missed seeing the bird you are looking for). But I kept the same motto as the day before, we must stay positive and focused as it only took one moment for it to happen.

On the way back to the car at Cape Cornwall that day we got that moment. The one thing had concerned me compared to two visits here last September was we had not heard the distinctive call of this scarlet-billed crow at all which we had a lot here last year. The Chough is a bird you’ve really got to be hearing before you can even think about seeing one. As we walked up the hill I heard two finally, and turned around and there were two black birds flying from where the call was made. I got them in the binoculars but could not quite see their beaks properly. My Mum had just about seen the shape of them but not the red colour and thought Chough. I needed that little bit more convincing as similarly sounding Jackdaws were by the shore to the left of where we were looking moments before so could have easily rose up. They looked more right for Choughs though and we walked back in the direction of the lower reaches of the hill where we’d seen them last year. Here we managed to see them again sitting on the cliff and the pair flew frequently, but we saw their red beaks and were in no doubt now they were Choughs. We enjoyed a glorious few minutes with these precious birds we really did get so close to them, I felt very happy to see and hear them. Once again this weekend away patience had paid off. I took the sixth picture in this photoset of one of the Choughs at Cape Cornwall that day.

As bird 171 in my year it did make me happy and made my year list at that stage my third highest compared to what I had seen on this date in previous years behind 2018 and 2019 my two highest ever year lists. It also marked the first time I saw one as one of my favourite birds which was nice, I had always been fond of them throughout my birdwatching but last September after the holiday I added it to my list of favourites. There’s was only at that stage six of my current list of favourite birds I was yet to see as I mentioned in my favourite birds highlights post in this thread, six I know I have not visited any locations I could see them or are just very hard ones to see so I did very well for seeing them this year. We left Cape Cornwall once more feeling very satisfied indeed. I also enjoyed seeing more great rock samphire at Cape Cornwall that day alongside other nice flowers.

We then moved onto Botallack and had a lovely covid-secure takeaway cream tea to eat on benches I always say you have got to have a cream tea if you come to the West Country and between this and a Devonshire one waiting for us when we arrived at this cottage on the Friday we had a Devon and Cornwall one ultimately. It was amazing how the National Trust made it so safe to enjoy their facilities in terms of the pandemic I was impressed. At Botallack it started to cloud over as the weather forecast suggested but as the visit went on we saw quite a bit of the sun as well. It also looked very purple here perhaps compared to when we came last a few weeks later in the year last year into September thanks to the flowering heather. This meant three of favourite habitats were combined this weekend away, heather, coast and water flowing through a rocky valley in woods over steep gradients and three of my most beautiful places to be. It was more of the same bird wise at Botallack with Choughs delightfully seen again over the café’s area and over the sea, Jackdaws, Buzzard again showing well and a Raven seen sitting on the central chimney for a very long time which was great to see it’s always a great spot for different types of crows here. I took the seventh picture in this photoset of a nice heather and coastal view here today.

We were here mostly to try and sneak in seeing a Manx Shearwater as we did last year and my Mum and her partner has the last two years here, a bird we did not expect to see at all this year. We studied Gannets flying right to left across the sea as the day rolled on; we did wonder if we were too early to see a Manx Shearwater and we would have had more luck in September as we did all across this part of Cornwall las year. But we did just manage to see a few Manx Shearwaters flying over with the Gannets, making out their features. It was not my best ever views of this bird but it was good enough and meant I could tick them and enjoy seeing them a little. Whilst looking at the Buzzard and more Choughs it was a really nice atmosphere of arriving here and waiting until a point in early evening to see if we could see any quite magical really. The sea remained calm but perhaps the day got a little rougher and it was a weird sensation after weather at this stage after hot days being a bit cold this evening. I ended the day on 172 birds seen in 2020 something I reached in July the last two years so I am not too far behind really. I took some interesting photos of the views of the sea and cliffs through a makeshift window which stood out– a gap in the buildings of the distinctive old tin mine fixtures which define this area and make it quite charming.

I took the eighth picture in this photoset of a lowering sun behind trees visible from the cottage when we returned that evening. This ended two really packed full days away that weekend and I loved being away so much. A perfect substitution to being at the Bird Fair, what a way to spend a summer weekend it did feel so hot and summery that weekend with okay some rain in places and I felt very happy and relaxed. I saw some top-class wildlife birds especially but butterflies and flowers too alongside other things and took in some varied and breathtaking views. Meeting some great people at a safe social distance along the way! So many photos produced again possibly some of my highest amounts ever each day and so many top memories made little and big.

With these memories strongly in my mind as we prepared to return home on the Monday I took one last walk around the area the cottage was in that had three lovely lakes where we had walked on the Friday evening. Like that walk I enjoyed seeing flowers (Yellow dahlias different colour to the ones I enjoyed in our garden so much this year, foxgloves, rosebay willowherb and some other lovely orange summer flowers we saw all over the south west that weekend I believe montbretia), insects some horsefly type things and a common blue damselfly and a nice view of a Wren and Swallow before we left.

We had a bit of a disaster leaving when the roof box for our luggage on the car’s key section broke so it could not be locked. With the help and advice of some very kind people at the farm we stayed, the postman who happened to come by quite charming for a rural area and in the post office at Bridestowe a local village we managed to arrange a makeshift tie down of the box using some rope ties and some newspaper ties and parcel tape from the post office shop there. We had to be resourceful but this type of thing can be what holidays are all about in terms of memories. I took in some views of this picturesque village of Bridestowe and saw a Woodpigeon, Collated Dove, Jackdaws and House Martins whilst there. Quite an adventure.

What followed was effectively a safari through the beautiful Dartmoor National Park as it was one of those sunny and rainy days getting a fair amount of each. We took in the stunning and uniquely carved out landscape, I took pictures of it from the car and at a little stop. On the stop we saw some of the hardy Dartmoor ponies of different colours too which was great I took the ninth photo in this set of one I enjoyed this. We then arrived at a planned stopover point to have a little walk from before travelling home, Dartmeet on the banks of the dart where we’d come in 2015 another very nice river through woods habitat similar to Fingle Bridge where went on the Saturday. We walked one way through rain and sun taking in stunning views along the river and were happy to find Dart Valley nature reserve and we walked along there. I took the tenth and final picture in this photoset there.

After eating lunch in the car park area through sun and rain once more we walked the other way through a heath. More stunning views were on offer here and then the walk came alive for wildlife sightings. We saw a Sparrowhawk chasing a Swallow which noisily tried to see it off, when looking at it I noticed a lovely common lizard sat on a little rockface it gave a great view but I was not quite fast enough for a picture. I noticed loads more of the little things of nature on the walk like a lovely spider on a hard to see web that looked as though it was skating in the air to get from bit of heather to heather therefore. Bees and Beautiful Demoiselles as we had seen the other side of the river completed this. Perhaps the stage was stolen though by another of my favourite dragon and damselflies when a Golden-ringed Dragonfly flew along flying right at us and then along we got a cracking view of this. Then a Buzzard a star bird of our weekend flew over too. On the way home we drove past the beautiful Postbridge in Dartmoor in the lovely cottage we stayed in there was a homely picture of this hung up.

This made a pleasant end to the journey of this weekend away for us taking in some of the key habitat of this weekend that breathtaking river through woods over steep gradients in the land area and the Dartmoor landscape. What a fantastic weekend away we had, some of the best, most enjoyable and memorable times this summer and year for me for relaxing, walking, wildlife watching and photography. As I said we did and saw so much and I loved every minute of it well worth how excited I was for the weekend away it lived up to it well.

We had a fun moment on the way home still in Devon seeing some lovely Cattle Egrets in a field! A year tick on my birthday at WWT Slimbridge the last time we came to the West Country so this was very nice. In Dorset on the way home we went a different way to when we came we had a smashing view of some adorable Roe Deers on the roadside so the journey there and back had great points of interest.

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hufflepuffg · 3 years ago

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EX-AUROR MANNANAN & The Tear of RA

Chapter One - AN AUROR RECRUITED

Oliver Logan Manannán of Postbridge Manner never considered himself to be normal, he, as did many others, believed he was quite extraordinary. He took immense pride in his remarkable career, and now retired, he was judged by many, to be one of the most successful and famed Aurors to ever have enlisted in the service. In fact, he was regarded by many witches and wizards of the age, to be the most gifted and notable wizard to have left the profession with a pulse or with all their limbs intact. Oliver was an audacious wizard who enjoyed taking risks, often electing to take the dangerous and more unpredictable course, over the safer, less thrilling one. It was a trait he had long possessed, a part of him since his school days. In truth, it was the very characteristic that got him expelled from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, at the start of his second year.

Oliver was now a young man, just turned twenty-eight; and the memory of his expulsion from Hogwarts had long since faded. That episode in his life had been completely eclipsed by nine years of an intrepid Auror career, one filled with almost unfathomable and hair-raising experiences. He was six foot one, with dark blond hair and deep brown eyes. He was built like a Beater, although he never really played Quidditch; he much preferred to be a spectator of games, as opposed to an actual player.

Having nearly everything he desired in his life, Oliver was the honoured owner of Postbridge Manner, a small holding of six acres with a modest but spacious cottage at the centre. The land was situated on the outer edge of Dartmoor, in Devon. It was a mixture of open fields and compact woodlands; perfect for a young wizard to conceal himself from the muggle world. It was home to just him and his three beagles, Galahad, Gawain and Gaheris.

Although Oliver was more than content with his current lot, there was a truth he concealed. One that was once just hidden from his mother, but now vehemently obscured from the world. For the wizarding community was currently in a most perilous place; so easily could times change for the worst. For what was once finally deemed acceptable, could, in a short period of time, become prohibited, criminal even.

It was not long after his twelfth birthday that things in the world appeared to change dramatically and quickly. For his childhood before then, was completely overshadowed by the ominous threat of the Dark Lord. Until that birthday, he had only ever known of the magical world being gripped by fear. Even as a small child he was profoundly aware of the dangers that Voldemort's movement posed. He was also very conscious that after that fateful night, when the Dark Lord attempted to murder, the now world-famous Harry Potter, that things greatly improved; the wizarding world changed for the better.

When Oliver set out on the clear blue-sky Monday morning, he did not know that an unexpected visitor would soon arrive. Walking through the woodland on his typical early sunrise stroll, with his canine knight's close by, his mind raced with the stories of what he had been told by his former colleagues at the Ministry of Magic. Thoughts of ending his private endeavours and returning to the Auror service, at the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, plagued his thoughts and his dreams. A profound sense of duty permeated his consciousness, he could not eliminate the desire to return; although he had, to date, made no official efforts to reenlist.

Oliver continued with his dog walk, trying to clear his mind of those troubling thoughts. Wrapped up in his green Barbour jacket, which he wore, rain or shine, he whistled away, calming his mind. It approached just before eight, when Oliver flicked his right hand as a reddish-white wand fell into his grip. With a long swipe of his arm, he sent three large branches that rested on the ground hurtling through the air. All three hounds darted off to give chase.

'Little cavaliers,' he chortled to himself, as he concealed his wand into his jacket's sleeve just before he quickened his pace in their direction.

It was on a small steep verge where the woodland ended and an open flat field began, that he first sensed something unusual. Moments later, he saw the open air on the horizon distort. Squinting, Oliver focussed on the twisted sky, he intuitively knew what it meant. In his view he could see all three of his beagles returning, racing towards him, it was then a sense of urgency fell upon him. His wand quickly returned to his right hand, falling again from underneath his sleeve. He slashed the air in the direction of his dogs, which gave out a bright white flash, they all instantly froze on the spot. It was milliseconds after that that a loud thundering crack rang out. It was so deafening that it would have been heard miles away. His right leg jerked slightly, although uncontrollable, for Oliver it was expected; it was a sign of his heightened state. The involuntary shudder in his lower right limb, was a by-product of the only injury he had ever suffered whilst working as an Auror.

The space directly behind him now warped, someone was apparating there, he could feel it! It terrified him, which was very unusual, as he was an extremely stoic and case-hardened man. The fear stemmed from his belief that there were only two people alive that could breach the protective shield around his home: one of them, being the Dark Lord himself.

The dread quickly turned to relief and astonishment. As Oliver turned, his gaze now fell upon the only other individual who was capable off such powerful magic. 'Professor.'

The famous Hogwarts Headmaster, Professor Albus Dumbledore stood tall and imposing, dressed in a long purple cloak, his long grey beard shimmered in the sunlight.

'Mr Manannán.' His blue eyes looked down through his half-moon spectacles, fixed on Oliver's wand.

'Apologies, sir. I mean no disrespect.' Said Oliver, as he once again concealed his wand.

'None taken. In fact, it is I who should apologise, for my unannounced and uninvited visit. I hope you don't think of me too rude.'

'Not too... rude Sir. You've been harsh and direct with me in the past. Which could be described as being more rude!' Joked Oliver.

Dumbledore smirked; it was slightly refreshing to be spoken to in such a way. A way that was not filled with blind reverence or admiration, but in a more mortal way, from one person to another.

'I have, haven't I, but for that I do not apologise. As I have always said, the greatest lessons are rarely taught in the classroom.'

Oliver smiled back; he knew the old wizard was right. He did not feel any bitterness or malice towards his former headmaster, not even for being the very person who had expelled him. At the time, when he left Hogwarts, the young Manannán was full of rage. However, he now knew well that he would not have become the man he was today, without that most important life lesson.

'I would not ask you too either. It was the inevitable outcome. I knew the risks at the time. I was far too overconfident and reckless with my magic back then.'

'Very wise Young Manannán. Now, you're most likely wondering why I have come here this morning.' Said Dumbledore, as he peered over Oliver's Shoulder. 'And please release them. They'll get crooked necks if they're stilled for much longer.'

Oliver turned and released his spell, mobilising his dogs as they instantly continued their race back towards him, each with branches in their mouths.

'I must confess that getting past your shield, was particularly bothersome. The only one to require more endeavour to contravene is the one around Hogwarts. I commend you on your casting.' Said Dumbledore, as he readjusted his cloak as though the complex apparition had ruffled his clothes.

The old Professor signalled with a subtle expression and an angle of his body, that the two men should continue their conversation shrouded by the woodland. Oliver instantly picked up on the old wizard's body language, and the two made their way in amongst the trees. The three dogs entered closely behind dropping their drool covered logs at their human companion's feet.

'I think we need to ensure less distractions whilst we talk.' Uttered Dumbledore, as he took out his wand and effortlessly cast a spell upon the branches, which sprung into life. Lifting into the air, they jerked as they floated. The three dogs glared at the enchanted sticks; Galahad barked inquisitively. The branches then flew off in the direction of the open field, all three dogs gave chase. 'That shall keep them busy.'

'Maybe Gawain and Gaheris, but Galahad often surprises.' Said Oliver.

'You seem to have a lovely home here. Not missing the Auror life are you?' Asked Dumbledore, as he smiled looking at the dogs.

'Not really. Don't get me wrong. An Auror is not just a career it's a way of being. I just enjoy the freedom now, picking the jobs I want. Deciding for myself what cases to undertake. I've thought of going back, ever since...' Oliver paused.

'Since his return?'

'Sort of. Over the last year it's been on my mind. More so since I heard about the events in the Ministry.'

'It must be clear to you then, why I have come?' Asked Dumbledore.

'Well, it's expected. I've been waiting a while for either someone to attempt to recruit me or to at least make an attempt on my life. I'm surprised that it's yourself who came to me first.' Said Oliver, he was truly surprised that the great Albus Dumbledore would take the time to come to see him.

'Death Eaters haven't come calling, yet? That does surprise me.'

'No. Which I find insulting. I thought I would've been at least on some list to be taken out. But not even a whisper of a threat. I guess my efforts back when I first joined the Department, and started hunting down Death Eaters that got away, has seemingly gone unnoticed.' Replied Oliver, sounding genuinely disappointed he was not a target.

'Possibly. I think it's more likely that as you're no longer in the Ministry, you're for now, less of a threat or more probable, you're less valuable as an asset to their cause; for the moment.' Said Dumbledore, before perching on a waist high tree stump. 'If they did come calling however, to seek your support, how would they find you?'

Oliver grinned at the magnificent wizard, he knew that the question was academic, Dumbledore surely knew where his true allegiances would lie. He wouldn't be there if he didn't. However, Oliver knew, he needed to confirm it with words.

'I'm aware it's well known that my methods can be unconventional, that I'm not one for the rules or authority. Also, my noble blood and the fact, that although my mother was not a Death Eater, she was however old, cantankerous, and publicly shared outdated views. Therefore, someone might think, I harboured similar beliefs.'

'And you do not?'

'No. Not at all Professor. You see, I loved someone who is not of noble blood, whose parents are not wizards. I don't let that fact be well known, but it's true. I held a love that the Dark Lord would seek to prohibit and destroy. Which is one of many reasons why I'd never support the return to the old ways.' Replied Oliver, his eyes showed a deeper emotion beyond his words.

'Would you actively oppose it though?'

'Ha.' Oliver paused, he knew that Dumbledore was not contesting his honour or his bravery with the question, but it cut him like he had. 'Of course I would. If only it was just my life I risked. But the choice is not that simple. It's not cowardice to say that that scares me.'

'No. In fact it's the opposite. It takes courage to understand and confront the fears we keep within. However, it probably goes without me saying. You know you don't have that choice to make. Unfortunately, Voldemort has made it for you.'

Oliver knew that Dumbledore was right. If he did not take a stand and oppose the tyranny, he would lose the very thing he feared he would, if he did take a stand. The only difference being, if he took up the fight, he could possibly make a difference, and potentially, save the thing he held most dear.

'You've come to recruit me for your Order?' Asked Oliver.

'The Order of the Phoenix would be honoured if you would join. However, I was thinking that you could help me directly, in other ways. You see, things are potentially a lot darker than most are aware of.'

'Really. That can't be true. I heard of an increase in arrests of late. And if it's true what I heard about what occurred in the Ministry, between yourself and He Who... Then we will succeed in the end.'

'Interesting. What did you hear?' Asked Dumbledore, genuinely fascinated.

'Well, just about the arrests and that you duelled with the Dark Lord. I heard that he attempted every spell and charm he could muster, and you, well, you countered everything. Effortlessly I hear. As though he was merely an annoyance, rather than an equal.'

'Ha-ha,' Dumbledore roared. 'The reports on the events paint me too kindly. The duel was not as one sided as you have heard. I promise you. The Dark Lord cast spells so mysterious and deathly, some that I had not come across before, and struggled to dispel or defend against. Also, I believe that he has developed a way to combine Fiendfyre with an evener darker form of magic.'

'Really?' Said Oliver, his thoughts quickly focussed on how that could be achieved.

'He is an extremely gifted, powerful wizard, who has spent years researching the darkest magic's, in the most perverse places in the world. He is the most dangerous wizard... I have ever faced.'

Oliver watched as Dumbledore spoke, every word was conveyed in a way that indicated that a memory was alive in the old wizard's mind.

'So, scaring me to sign up is your plan?' Chortled Oliver.

'At times like these, the truth is often the scariest thing to speak. However, it is the right thing to speak.' Dumbledore rose from his perch. 'I need you to understand one more truth. This might make little sense now, but I promise in time, you will soon comprehend fully. You see, the Dark Lord will be made mortal again, and when that happens, he will need to be bested. There are only a handful of wizards alive, who have both the gift and the skill to have a chance at defeating him.'

'Shacklebolt? Moody?' Asked Oliver. He had worked under Shacklebolt as an Auror and whilst in his Auror training, was taught by Alastor Moody. Oliver didn't know what Dumbledore meant by being made mortal again, he assumed it was an allegory for being beatable.

'They are both powerful wizards. But I am not sure they have what is needed.' Dumbledore paused. 'You, however, might.'

'Me?' Responded Oliver, flabbergasted.

'Not many twelve-year-old wizards get expelled for sneaking off into the forbidden forest to practice illegal spells. And even fewer of them manage to complete an education abroad and eventually become an Auror.' After talking Dumbledore stood silently for a moment, his facial expression changed, showing a hint of respect, 'You remind me greatly of a wizard I once knew.'

'I'm not sure what to say. Thank you, I guess.'

'No need. Just come to Hogwarts tonight. There is something I need you present for. I wish to share something with you. And I'd also like you to meet the other wizard who I feel could face the Dark Lord, when the time is right.'

It was at that moment that Oliver's eyes fell upon the Professors right hand. It was withered, blackened and it appeared contaminated somehow. Oliver quickly diverted his gaze, but Dumbledore noticed the young wizard's recognition.

'Are you in?'

'Yes. I'll be there tonight.' Replied Oliver, genuinely and confidently.

Oliver's day raced by, unlike the Auror's who was stationed at the main gates of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The Auror had been standing on the spot like a statue for hours, his eyes unblinkingly scanned the darkness for any hint of a threat. He had been there, almost on the exact point, since two o'clock that day. Seven long hours later, he yearned for his duty to be over. As tired and as heavy as his legs felt, he stayed sharp. He did not flinch at all when Oliver apparated in the distance, he merely raised his wand, 'Who goes there?'

Mr Mannanán slowly walked towards his ex-colleague, Oliver had recognised him almost immediately, however, it was clear to him that it was not reciprocated.

'Stanley, it's me Oliver.'

'Tori?' The Auror shouted. A nickname that Oliver had not been called for years. Straining his eyes to make Oliver out, the Auror continued. 'Ah, it is you. Long time. I was told to expect someone tonight, but they didn't tell me it was going to be you.'

Stanley had been stationed at Hogwarts for just shy of three weeks. He was one of many Aurors posted there since the start of the summer break. He was there to support the school with its security measures. Students had yet to return, and most of the teachers were tasked with duties inside the castle. Stanley rarely saw anyone else whilst at the gates, other than his shift relief, he would occasionally see the odd teacher. The Professor that came earlier that day to inform him that a visitor would arrive that night, was pale skinned, greasy haired with a strikingly hooked nose.

'Where have you been?' The Auror bellowed as Oliver came to stop just in front of him.

'You know, helping the ordinary wizard, the occasional muggle. Being an Auror for hire, so to speak.' Replied Oliver.

'Are you being hired to lend a hand to the cause then?' Chortled Stanley.

'Something like that. I've been convinced that my time might be better spent hunting Death Eaters again. As opposed to enforcing warrants, looking for missing magical beasts, or settling family disputes.'

'Good. We could do with you around. I've never seen anyone take down a giant as quick as you.' Replied Stanley. He kept his wand pointed throughout the exchange. He was confident it was his ex-colleague, but Auror training always left the witch or wizard slightly apprehensive.

'That was a mental stake out. I'm glad it all worked out in the end. Times have certainly changed.' Said Oliver, not at all offended by the wand pointed at him.

'That they have.' Stanley replied. 'Just need to do the check before opening the threshold.'

Oliver stood straight; he knew what was coming. It was uncomfortable for anyone Witch or Wizard to willingly allow another to use a wand upon them and to cast a spell.

'Revelio.' Said Stanley.

A sensation rushed through Oliver's body; it made his entire being tingle. The feeling soon disappeared, and to no one's surprise, nothing changed. The Revelio Charm established that there was no magic disguise or concealment in place; Oliver was, who he appeared and presented to be.

'I'll let you in. Then I'll let them know you hear.' The Auror turned, whispered a spell, and an opening appeared within the shield. He then lifted his wand and aimed it into the air.

'Lower your wand. I don't require summoning like some house elf.' The cold gloomy voice came from the darkness. As Professor Snape stepped forward, he was illuminated by the floating lanterns. His deep dark eyes glistened.

'Professor.' Said Stanley.

Severus Snape ignored the Auror and moved directly towards Oliver. His eyes examined Dumbledore's mysterious guest. He was eager to know why this young man had been invited tonight, what other mysterious plan, did Albus have in mind? He wondered.

'So, you are Mr Mannanán, the infamous ex-Auror?'

'Well, I wouldn't say infamous. But the rest is correct.' Replied Oliver, clearly taken aback.

Snape's lip curled displaying his disapproval.

'Fascinating.' Snape turned back towards the castle. 'We need to move. The hour is late and headmaster doesn't want anyone else seeing you on school grounds.'

Oliver turned to smile at Stanley, who looked rather bemused by the Professors egotism. Snape deliberately ignored the unspoken conversation, he could feel the silent exchange; it was something many people participated in, within in his presence. He cared little for the judgment of others. Snape paced quickly back through the entrance in the shield, Oliver followed not too far behind. The visitor took a quick glance back to see the field edges stretch inward as Stanley closed the shield behind them.

'Security is totally maxed out here then?' Said Oliver, a statement more than a question.

'Obviously.' Sneered Snape.

'Understandable, I guess. Every Death Eater in the country, with a desire to stand out and impress you Know Who, will try and kill Harry Potter. He's got to be their target number one.' Said Oliver as he quickened his pace to keep up. 'Well, I guess you'd know. You were one once.'

Snape jerked his head back at the ex-Auror, 'Was I?' Not waiting for a reply, he faced away and carried on.

'Well, it's what I heard. I guess we all make mistakes in our lives.'

'That we do.' Snape whispered irritably. He threw another sharp backwards glance at Oliver, as though he was about to divulge more, but he didn't.

'Sorry to Pry. I can't help it. Part of the training, make every contact count. You probably don't remember, but you were my potions teacher in my first year. Before I got kicked out.' Oliver spoke at the Professor who did not turn. It was hard for him to gauge his current companion; he was struggling to work him out.

'I don't.' Said Snape, coldly.

'I would be surprised if you did. You know, I hear the schools looking for a new Defence against the Dark Arts teacher this year. Do you think that's what Dumbledore wants to speak to me about?'

'Please. You talk too much and talk too loudly. He wants as few people as possible, knowing you are here. So how about silence as we head towards his office.' Said Snape, sounding even more irritable.

'Sorry, I'll turn the volume down a notch.' Whispered Oliver.

Snape sniffed angrily.

'Maybe it's not that. Maybe it's something else. Like his hand! You would've noticed that surely. If you've been in his presence.'

The two men had just reached a side door to a part of the castle, one that led towards the Kitchens. It was a concealed entrance, and before Snape could lift the charm, he abruptly stopped on the spot and turned to face Oliver. He threw a menacing and immensely piercing gaze towards the headmaster's guest.

'What do you know of such things?' Asked Snape.

Oliver instantly sensed his statement was pertinent, it revealed much more about Snape, more than he had ever conveyed to anyone else in his life - apart from Dumbledore.

'Well, I only saw it the once. But to me it looked like the presentation of a curse. A powerful and potentially deadly one. Without examining it magically, I cannot comment further, although it appeared to me mostly contained. Maybe it was the Gravraxx.'

Both men stood staring at one another, each intensely assessing the other. Oliver waited for Snape to respond to his appraisal, but his face remained indifferent, it revealed nothing. It did not answer the concealed question within Oliver's words.

Without speaking another word, Snape turned on his heels faced the wall, took out his wand and sent blue sparks at it. The door opened with a loud grinding noise, like it had not been opened for some time.

Snape led the way and Oliver followed. The two wizards walked through many back passages in the castle before finally reaching the stairway to the Headmasters Office. Whilst walking through the school castle itself, the two did not speak. Oliver was trying to work out how accurate his evaluation of Dumbledore's injured hand was, from Snape's none offered response. Snape's thoughts dwelled on the character of this inquisitive stranger.

'Gentleman, come in.' Said Dumbledore, as he opened his office door.

The two entered without hesitation. 'Would either of you care for a sherbet lemon?'

'I would.' Said Oliver, with a hint of surprise. 'I do enjoy the odd muggle treat from time to time.

'No, thank you headmaster.' Replied Snape, with a hint of annoyance at Oliver's eagerness.

'Help yourself Mr Manannán, they're on my desk. And please take the seat.' Dumbledore gestured towards his desk, where two seats had been placed in front of it.

Snape and Oliver walked over and sat down on the chairs, Oliver grabbed a sherbet lemon before he perched.

Dumbledore moved to take up his seat, as he did, he placed his wand on the desk with his right hand – the awful condition of which was clear to see to his two guests. Snape glanced over and clocked Oliver assessing the malady again.

'Thank you for coming tonight.' Said Dumbledore, directed at his guest. 'You must be wondering exactly why I have asked you to come here?'

'Well, my first thought might be to offer me the post of Defence Against the Dark Arts. Although Snape put that one to bed.' Replied Oliver, smiling wide.

'Oh, he told you I have offered it to him, did he?' Enquired Dumbledore.

Oliver's face grinned wider. 'Not directly.' He turned to face the extremely unimpressed teacher, 'congratulations.'

'Thank you.' Replied Snape, sounding frostier than ever.

'No. I require your talents to be directed elsewhere. Not academic. Something more suited to your particular set of skills.' Said Dumbledore, as he opened his draw. 'Can I ask you something Mr Manannán? I believe you to be a decent man. A man of honour. There are things I am willing to share with you tonight. Things that would frighten many wizards and corrupt many others. However, I sense you have the particular disposition to take this dark knowledge, to a place of good. That being said, I would like your word, that whatever is discussed here tonight, stays between the three of us. No one outside of this room, should know.' Both Dumbledore and Snape gazed at the ex-Auror, waiting to study every detail of his response.

'That's very kind of you to say. I've always treated my word and my honour with the highest regard. I understand what you're asking of me. If it helps bring an end to the Dark Lord, then yes, you have my word.'

'Thank you.' Said Dumbledore, as his hand reached down into his desk before continuing, bluntly. 'Have you ever heard of a Horcrux?'

'A Horcrux. I've heard the term. It's an ancient and dark magic. Something around anchoring oneself to life. Though, it's not possible. It's never been achieved. Not that I know of anyway.'

'Oh, but unfortunately, it has.' Said Dumbledore resolutely. 'Voldemort has attained such dark magic. It is fundamental to his malevolence.'

'That's not possible, surely. Are you certain?'

'I am indeed.' As Professor Dumbledore spoke, he took out a worn and heavily damaged book and a ring, from his desk draw. 'These were once Horcruxes of his. Now destroyed. I feel he may have enchanted more, and I am taking the necessary steps to confirm this. The fact that there might be more, is why I need your help.'

'My help?' Exclaimed Oliver.

Snape remained silent throughout the exchange between the two men. Dumbledore had already shared this knowledge to him previously. He was aware that it was going to be discussed tonight, he was there to try to understand if Oliver could be trusted.

'Yes. You see, I have spent most of the past two months hunting down possible objects that Voldemort might have turned into Horcruxes. And there is something that has come to my attention that you have a personal connection to.'

'This is what you meant when you said he would be mortal once more.' Said Oliver, his eyes fixed on the book. 'So, all that flattery was just to make me blush and get me to come here tonight.'

'No. Not just to get you here. I stand by what I said. You are one of only a handful of people that could stand a chance of defeating the Dark Lord, when that becomes an option.' Dumbledore's eyes fell upon his cursed right hand, the sense of his own mortality weighed heavy on his thoughts. 'You see, everything depends on finding the Horcruxes, destroying them all, no matter how many, and whatever they might be.' There was a momentary pause, for the only time in the entire meeting, as Snape's attention was drawn from Oliver towards Dumbledore. The new Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher, displayed a brief fleeting expression, one that conveyed resentment.

Dumbledore quickly drew his thoughts back from the macabre events he knew he was setting into motion. 'And there is an object. One that I know the Dark Lord was once extremely interested in. Do you know the name Antonin Dolohov?'

'Of course. He was one of the Death Eaters Moody arrested during the raid of Galwick mansion. I understand he was arrested again during the raid on the Ministry.'

'That's the one. However, unlike popular belief, and what the Ministry would like most to believe. He was not arrested. In fact, he was the only Death Eater to escape that night, who was not aided by Voldemort himself.' Said Dumbledore.

'Really? Why is the department not correcting that?' Asked Oliver.

'Fear.' Added Snape.

'They are not actively denying anything at this time. They are merely not correcting the record.' Said Dumbledore. 'Anyway. Back to my request. You completed your education at Mahoutokoro?'

'I did. Someone expelled me from this place.' Chortled Oliver.

Dumbledore smiled and ignored the jibe. 'And whilst there, did you make acquaintance with the Archduke Finikis of Bergmane?'

'I'm guessing you know I did.' Said Oliver, continuing to smile. 'We bonded over a shared experience. He was kicked out of Durmstrang.'

'I apologise, I don't want to treat you as though you are still a student. But I have heard only rumour. And I often only give small credence to rumour.'

'It's okay. What's this all got to do with me or Finikis?'

'To keep this short. Dolohov in nineteen-eighty was tasked with obtaining something believed to be in the possession of the Archduke's family. The Domantas Bracelet.'

Oliver's smile dropped and a confused expression crossed his face. 'You give credence to that rumour. That Bracelet, the one believed to contain the Tear of Ra, it's legend only. Surely you don't think it actually exits?'

'The Dark Lord believes it exists. He sent Dolohov to acquire it back then.' Interjected Snape.

'Really? Well, just because he believes, doesn't mean it exists.' Replied Oliver, directing his reply towards Snape.

'I think it does exist. You see, Voldemort has a deep interest in important relics. Ones that have profound magical heritage. He desired the Tear of Ra then. And I fear he now covets it again.' Said Dumbledore, his tone sounded slightly concerned.

'What? You think he doesn't have it then? Therefore, it can't be a Horcrux surely?' Replied Oliver.

'I believe he desired it back then, to make it into one. I do feel he was unsuccessful, however. Dolohov was quite talkative during his time in Azkaban. He divulged that he never found it.' Replied Dumbledore.

'If that's true, why are we all talking about it now?' Asked Oliver.

'We have received intelligence that two Death Eaters have been sent to finally retrieve it for the Dark Lord. And it is something we cannot afford to allow to fall into his possession.' Dumbledore removed the book and ring and placed them back into his draw. 'I am sorry to ask this of you. But would you be willing to see your old friend. Ensure that Voldemort is denied this particular treasure. With whatever it takes?'

'Of course.' Oliver paused, contemplating the whole conversation. The request was something he was willing to undertake, despite the great personal risk. 'I think you're right. This does seem to be something particularly suited to my skills. I can leave tonight.'

'No not tonight. Snape and I will visit you tomorrow evening. To swear you in to the Order of the Phoenix. I can't do that now as I have somewhere else to be. I need to escort a student and reacquaint an old colleague. But tomorrow. With your permission, Snape and myself will come to Postbridge Manor? Said Dumbledore, as he rose from his chair.

'Yes. Of course. Tomorrow.'

'Perfect. We will be there for nine.' Dumbledore took out a large empty whisky bottle and placed it in front of him. Oliver glared, bewildered at the peculiarity.

'Portkey Mr Manannán. One that will get you out of Hogwarts tonight. One of my own creations. It's a one-way pass however.'

There was a weird awkwardness in the room as Oliver felt compelled to take the bottle, the penetrating gaze of both professors bore deep.

'Good night then.' Said Oliver, as he stretched out his hand and touched the bottle. He was instantly whisked away with a snap, reappearing just outside the Three Broomsticks, in Hogsmeade.

'Are you sure he can be trusted Headmaster?' Asked Snape, as he watched Dumbledore make his way for the door.

'I'm Confident Severus. However, I am a little more cautious in my advanced years. Tomorrow however, we will both know for sure. One way, or the other. Goodnight, Severus.'

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