C116 New Leadership

*Only one today :(*

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"Steve!/Captain!" Bucky and the Howling Commandos exclaimed.

They had no idea how they didn't notice Steve standing there. It was like they were incapable of recognizing him.

Although they were confused, everyone was ecstatic to see the Captain's return. None were more relieved than Bucky. He rushed forward and brought Steve into a brotherly hug.

"It's good to have you back, Steve." He says as he steps back.

"I didn't really go anywhere, but it's good to be back, I guess." Steve replies with a happy smile.

He was glad that those closest to him wouldn't go on thinking he's dead for the rest of their lives. After Tom revealed the secret, it felt like a weight lifted from his shoulders.

All of the Commandos gave Steve their best wishes and celebrated the return of their leader.

"How come we couldn't recognize you before? I mean, you were standing right in front of us." Bucky asks causing the curious Commandos to listen closely.

"Tom did a spell to make everyone think I'm dead. If he doesn't reveal it himself, no one will be able to recognize me." Steve informs them.

"Huh?/What?/Why?" The Howling Commandos voice their confusion.

"Yeah, why do you want to fake your death?" Bucky asks.

"Well, it's a long story..." Steve begins to explain everything.

Once it was explained, everyone agreed with the decision. They just want what's best for their friend and leader.

Of course, he only told them what they needed to know. Nothing about the team or the future threats were said.

Every single one of them was deeply touched that Steve prioritized telling them. If he didn't and they found out, later on, they would've no doubt been hurt and angry about it.

"So, does that mean you're leaving the Howling Commandos?" One of Steve's men asked.

"Yes, I'm afraid so." Steve answers with a sad smile.

"Oh..." Many of the Commandos become dejected.

"Hey, it's not like we won't see each other again! We're still brothers in arms. You guys can still fight the good fight, and if you ever need a helping hand, call me and I'll be there to back you up!" Steve tries his best to brighten the mood.

Hearing Steve's speech, everyone's mood became a lot lighter. The Howling Commandos isn't something you can leave behind. No matter what he does or where he goes, Steve would always be their Captain.

Although the mood became better, there was one question on everyone's minds.

"Who will lead us now?" A soldier voices what everyone was thinking.

Upon hearing the question, Steve smiled and looked over at his long time friend. As soon as this friend saw Steve's smile, he wanted to run away.

"No, absolutely not happening!" Bucky voices his displeasure with what Steve was thinking.

"What? I haven't even said anything yet." Steve smirks at his friend's behavior.

"You don't have to say anything. I already know what it is and the answer is no." Bucky says resolutely.

"Bucky will you..." Steve starts.

"No, don't say it!" Bucky interrupts.

"Will you lead the Howling Commandos in my place?" Steve continues with an evil smirk on his face.

The second Steve voices his choice on who to lead the Howling Commandos, every soldier agreed with him. Bucky is already the second in command and Steve's right-hand man. He helped Steve with everything, so he would be the best person to take the captain's place.

The soldiers could also see how much he hated the idea, but that just made them want him as the leader even more. Matching evil smirks formed on their faces as they all voiced their agreement.

"Then it's decided. Bucky will lead the Howling Commandos from here on out!" Steve announces and everyone cheers and congratulated poor Bucky.

The second Steve announced his rank change, Bucky just stood there shocked. He didn't want to lead this band of misfits. It's already annoying being the second in command. Now he has to deal with even more paperwork and responsibilities.

"*sigh* I hate all of you..." Bucky says, resigned to his fate.

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After informing the Howling Commandos of Steve's well-being, Tom, Peggy, and Steve left via a portal. Mimsy returned to her duty's as well.

Steve told them that he would give them his phone number when he had one. They needed some way to keep in contact, and letters wouldn't be the best idea.

When they returned to Slytherin Manor, Tom told Steve and Peggy that he would get them their own residence. They can't stay in Slytherin Manor forever after all.

After dropping the couple off at the manor, Tom opened a portal and left immediately. He's been getting a lot of communications from his followers. All of them giving information about what's been happening in the wizarding world.

Many of the Slytherin parents have started becoming suspicious, and started looking into Toms background. He needs to figure out how to deal with this.

'Maybe it's time I bring all of the parents into the fold?' Tom thought as he stepped through a portal and into Rosier Manor. 'I should be more than strong enough by now.'

"My Lord, it's good to see you again." Francesca Rosier says as she greets Tom.

"You as well, Lady Rosier." Tom greets back and takes a seat on the sofa. "So, you said you were having a problem?"

She sent a message through the mark earlier saying there were some complications.

"Yes, because of your newfound fame, many have been investigating into your background." Lady Rosier reveals.

"I'm aware of this. What's the problem?" Tom asks.

"Well, you're very well known for being close to Druella. Many Lords and Lady's are asking questions." She says with annoyance in her voice.

She's received more owls that she could count. All of them asking about Tom Riddle, stating his close relationship with her daughter.

Her husband, Lord Rosier is currently sifting through the mountain of letters. While more letters keep arriving in droves.

"Have you answered their questions?" Tom asks.

"No, I was waiting to talk to you, my Lord." She denies it as she looks to Tom for what to do.

"Good, this is what you'll do..."