Chapter 1 - "The Other Minister" - In which the Muggle Prime Minister recounts his encounters with Cornelius Fudge, Fudge visits him again with Scrimgeour, and we learn that Scrimgeour is the new Minister for Magic. We also hear of the wizarding world's open war with Voldemort - dozens of Muggles have been killed along with Amelia Bones and Emmeline Vance, the Dementors and giants have joined Voldemort, and the Ministry is struggling to fight.

CHapter 2 - "Spinner's End" - In which Narcissa calls on Snape in secret against Voldemort's orders, while Bellatrix tries to stop her but joins her at Snape's house anyway. Snape prevents Wormtail's eavesdropping and tells Bellatrix his story, though she still refuses to trust him; Narcissa then reveals that Voldemort has ordered Draco to do something difficult, and asks Snape to make an Unbreakable Vow - which he then does, saying that he will help Draco carry out the deed, and perform the deed himself if Draco fails.