The Aftermath of Voldemort's First Downfall: The Fate of Nagini

Since the first downfall of Voldemort, the story of his titular pet, the basilisk, Nagini, has intrigued many. After Voldemort’s first defeat, Nagini’s fate was marked by a series of events that contributed to her transformation and, ultimately, her demise.

Transformation and Life as a Snake

Following Voldemort's first defeat, Nagini was transformed into a permanent snake due to the influence of the Dark Magic used by one of the death knights. This transformation left her with a permanent, snake-like existence, though it also led to a significant change in her mental state.

For decades, Nagini lived in an Albanian forest, far from human contact. This isolation likely did not bode well for her sanity. Over time, she became increasingly isolated, and her moral compass began to deteriorate. Her former human traits and memories began to fade, and she became a loyal, albeit unquestioning, follower of Voldemort.

When Voldemort resurfaced during his absence, he found Nagini, who had been living in seclusion for many years. She recognized him and, as a snake, was eager to serve her former master. Understanding her new form and the futility of her former life, Nagini became a formidable ally, helping Voldemort in his quest for immortality.

Nagini’s Role in Voldemort's Immortality

One of the most significant roles Nagini played in Voldemort’s plans was in aiding him in his quest for immortality. As a snake, she understood the intricacies of the Horcruxes and how they could be used to achieve this goal. Nagini, having shared her human memories and knowledge with Voldemort, helped him fully understand the concept and prepare for the proper construction and safeguarding of his own Horcruxes.

However, Nagini’s contribution to Voldemort’s immortality was twofold. First, she acted as a valuable advisor and loyal follower, always by his side. Second, she provided the critical link between Voldemort and the concept of immortality, ensuring that the process was continuously refined and perfected.

Death and Legacy

Nagini’s journey came to an abrupt end during the battle at Hogwarts. Neville Longbottom, a Gryffindor member of the Order of the Phoenix, played a pivotal role in her demise with the Sword of Gryffindor. The Sword of Gryffindor, magical and powerful, was precisely the weapon needed to defeat a snake. Neville, with the help of the sword, successfully decapitated Nagini, ending her life as a servant to Voldemort.

Interestingly, many fans wonder why Neville was able to kill Nagini while Harry Potter, who was carrying one of Voldemort’s Horcruxes, was not. In my headcanon, it is theorized that Aberforth Dumbledore spiked their mead with Felix Felicis, Liquid Luck. By doing so, he ensured that the Killing Curse would only hit the Horcrux within Harry and not Harry himself, thereby allowing Neville to kill Nagini without harming Harry.

The death of Nagini marked the end of a period of servitude and transformation. Her life, once filled with human companions and a semblance of morality, ended with a swift and decisive strike. The aftermath of her death left a lingering impact on the war and the plans of the Death Eaters.