hapter 36: Failed Plans
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I’d like to thank brianna-xox, fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved
the story a lot.
the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 36: Failed Plans**
*’The Night of the Dead has been the subject of much speculation among both
historians and the public. Why did the Dark Lord wait until his coup had
failed to cast this curse? Wouldn’t his forces have won the Battle of the
Ministry if they had had the support of the victims of the Withering Curse? If
his spell hadn’t been ready in time, why didn’t he wait a few more days? Some
of my colleagues claim that it was all part of an intricate plan of his to
deal with Dumbledore, the main obstacle to the Dark Lord’s goals. However, I
disagree. None of the theories put forth can explain, at least not in a
satisfactory manner, why he would sacrifice so many of his followers for no
perceptible gain. If he had done so to lull Dumbledore into a false sense of
security, as the most popular theory goes, then why had he struck so hard at
Dumbledore during their duel in Hogsmeade?*
historians and the public. Why did the Dark Lord wait until his coup had
failed to cast this curse? Wouldn’t his forces have won the Battle of the
Ministry if they had had the support of the victims of the Withering Curse? If
his spell hadn’t been ready in time, why didn’t he wait a few more days? Some
of my colleagues claim that it was all part of an intricate plan of his to
deal with Dumbledore, the main obstacle to the Dark Lord’s goals. However, I
disagree. None of the theories put forth can explain, at least not in a
satisfactory manner, why he would sacrifice so many of his followers for no
perceptible gain. If he had done so to lull Dumbledore into a false sense of
security, as the most popular theory goes, then why had he struck so hard at
Dumbledore during their duel in Hogsmeade?*
*No, I am of the opinion that the Dark Lord didn’t want to resort to such a
measure because he was aware of the consequences of using houngan magic. It
was only after his efforts to appeal to the pureblood population had seemingly
failed that he abandoned them and prepared to rule through fear. Undoubtedly,
the Night of the Dead, which itself was an imprecise name based upon a common
misconception of houngan magic, struck fear and horror into the very heart of
Wizarding Britain.’*
measure because he was aware of the consequences of using houngan magic. It
was only after his efforts to appeal to the pureblood population had seemingly
failed that he abandoned them and prepared to rule through fear. Undoubtedly,
the Night of the Dead, which itself was an imprecise name based upon a common
misconception of houngan magic, struck fear and horror into the very heart of
Wizarding Britain.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**Hogwarts, January 19th, 1997**
*Harry Potter had stared at the body, had seen the flames slowly spread, the
hole his Reductor Curse had opened in the boy’s chest bleeding, the stump of
his arm, bleeding as well, his leg, the cursed, leathery one, twitching still.
He had killed Colin Creevey. A boy who had revered him. He had barely noticed
Fleur arriving — had the whole fight been so quick that she hadn’t managed to
reach the room in time to intervene?*
hole his Reductor Curse had opened in the boy’s chest bleeding, the stump of
his arm, bleeding as well, his leg, the cursed, leathery one, twitching still.
He had killed Colin Creevey. A boy who had revered him. He had barely noticed
Fleur arriving — had the whole fight been so quick that she hadn’t managed to
reach the room in time to intervene?*
*Then Luna had screamed, panicking about her father, and he had whirled
around. Xenophilius had been bleeding, hit by a bullet in the chest, Harry
realised, and Luna had been desperately trying to help him, casting spell
after spell while blood continued to flow from the hole in the man’s chest.
She had been trembling, crying, but hadn’t given up. Xenophilius’s breathing
had made a horrible sound, with more blood flowing from his mouth. The man’s
lung had been hit, Harry had thought, and he had rushed to help Luna. His own
spells had worked better, but the wounds had been so extensive — the bullet
had gone through the man, leaving a far larger hole in his back — that
Xenophilius would have died anyway, if not for Pomfrey’s arrival.*
around. Xenophilius had been bleeding, hit by a bullet in the chest, Harry
realised, and Luna had been desperately trying to help him, casting spell
after spell while blood continued to flow from the hole in the man’s chest.
She had been trembling, crying, but hadn’t given up. Xenophilius’s breathing
had made a horrible sound, with more blood flowing from his mouth. The man’s
lung had been hit, Harry had thought, and he had rushed to help Luna. His own
spells had worked better, but the wounds had been so extensive — the bullet
had gone through the man, leaving a far larger hole in his back — that
Xenophilius would have died anyway, if not for Pomfrey’s arrival.*
*He had held Luna while the matron had saved the man’s life with spells and
potions — and Colin’s body had burned behind them. None of them had noticed
the stench. Not until Xenophilius’s wounds had been closed and Pomfrey had
levitated him out of his blood-soaked bed.*
potions — and Colin’s body had burned behind them. None of them had noticed
the stench. Not until Xenophilius’s wounds had been closed and Pomfrey had
levitated him out of his blood-soaked bed.*
*By then, more victims of this attack had arrived, Ron among them! Colin’s
body had been quickly moved to another room, joining two others. And Sirius
had taken him away, to have him checked for injuries and curses.*
body had been quickly moved to another room, joining two others. And Sirius
had taken him away, to have him checked for injuries and curses.*
That was the room in which Harry was now standing as he stared at the blanket
covering the dead boy. He could still smell the burned flesh, and the blood,
despite the spells that had cleaned and preserved the bodies. Or so he
thought.
covering the dead boy. He could still smell the burned flesh, and the blood,
despite the spells that had cleaned and preserved the bodies. Or so he
thought.
The door opened behind him, and he shifted, turning. Just in case.
Hermione stood there, and behind her, Ron.
His friend was looking a bit pale still, Harry noticed, and he sounded just a
bit hesitant: “Sirius told us you were here.”
bit hesitant: “Sirius told us you were here.”
Harry nodded. His godfather hadn’t wanted to leave him, but he was needed, now
more than ever, with the Minister dead. Harry had realised that, even if his
godfather hadn’t.
more than ever, with the Minister dead. Harry had realised that, even if his
godfather hadn’t.
“It wasn’t your fault,” Hermione said, stepping inside.
“I didn’t recognise him. He blinded me with a grenade.”
“Flashbang,” Hermione said.
Harry ignored her correction and went on, looking at the body again. “He was
shooting at me, and at the Lovegoods. He’d have killed us, if I hadn’t stopped
him.” He took a deep breath. “But that doesn’t change the fact that I killed
him. I should have stunned him.” They had stunned Dennis, after all.
shooting at me, and at the Lovegoods. He’d have killed us, if I hadn’t stopped
him.” He took a deep breath. “But that doesn’t change the fact that I killed
him. I should have stunned him.” They had stunned Dennis, after all.
“He’d have taken a few Stunners, mate,” Ron said. “He might have killed you if
you had tried that. Or he might have killed Luna and her father — he came
close, didn’t he?” Harry’s friend rubbed his side, a reminder that he, too,
had had a close call. If the bullet had hit a bit closer…
you had tried that. Or he might have killed Luna and her father — he came
close, didn’t he?” Harry’s friend rubbed his side, a reminder that he, too,
had had a close call. If the bullet had hit a bit closer…
“He was mind-controlled by Voldemort,” Harry said. “It wasn’t his fault.”
“And neither was it yours. You did what you had to. It’s Voldemort’s fault,”
Ron said. “Besides, Hermione is blaming herself.”
Ron said. “Besides, Hermione is blaming herself.”
“What?” Harry frowned at the witch.
“I should have expected something like this. At least thought of the
possibility,” Hermione said.
possibility,” Hermione said.
“Dumbledore didn’t expect it either,” Ron cut in. “No one expected the Dark
Lord to use houngan magic. Which I told you already.”
Lord to use houngan magic. Which I told you already.”
“It’s not quite clear if it actually is houngan magic,” she said.
“Turning people into zombies certainly sounds like it,” Ron said. “It fits the
stories about the war in the Caribbean.”
stories about the war in the Caribbean.”
“They’re not exactly undead,” Harry said, “they’re alive but mind-controlled.”
“With the withered limbs providing the link to the Dark Lord,” Hermione said.
“Creepy,” Ron said. “Dennis’s arm was still moving, even though he was out.”
Harry’s eyes widened. “The snakes!”
“What?” Ron said, drawing his wand. Hermione had already taken a step to the
side and turned, to guard their back.
side and turned, to guard their back.
“The snakes Voldemort sent after me and Dumbledore. I noticed that one of them
had a dried-up tail. I thought it had been the fire, back then, but now…”
Harry trailed off.
had a dried-up tail. I thought it had been the fire, back then, but now…”
Harry trailed off.
“Maybe that had been a test,” Hermione said. “We’re still not certain how
detailed Voldemort’s orders are, or were. But as far as we can tell, all of
his victims started attacking others at the same time. We haven’t been able to
interrogate them, yet.”
detailed Voldemort’s orders are, or were. But as far as we can tell, all of
his victims started attacking others at the same time. We haven’t been able to
interrogate them, yet.”
“Colin and Dennis split up,” Ron said. “Dennis started attacking any student
he saw, and Colin attacked you.”
he saw, and Colin attacked you.”
“He’s been obsessed with me since he started at Hogwarts,” Harry said, and
regretted it at once. Colin had been annoying as a first-year, but he had
grown up.
regretted it at once. Colin had been annoying as a first-year, but he had
grown up.
“If Voldemort had wanted to kill you, wouldn’t he have sent them both together
after you?” Hermione nibbled on her lower lip. “That might indicate that he
can’t actually give such orders.”
after you?” Hermione nibbled on her lower lip. “That might indicate that he
can’t actually give such orders.”
“He could order all of his victims to fight,” Ron said.
“But they attacked without coordination,” she said. “He might have been
limited to blanket orders — like ‘attack the Ministry’.”
limited to blanket orders — like ‘attack the Ministry’.”
“The Creeveys didn’t attack the Ministry, though,” Harry said. “So, he had to
be able to split the orders.”
be able to split the orders.”
Hermione wrinkled her nose, then shook her head. “Not necessarily. He might
have simply ordered them to attack his enemies, and leave them to execute the
order as they saw fit. Colin saw you as Voldemort’s biggest enemy, which might
explain why he attacked you.”
have simply ordered them to attack his enemies, and leave them to execute the
order as they saw fit. Colin saw you as Voldemort’s biggest enemy, which might
explain why he attacked you.”
“Maybe.” Harry thought that was just speculation. “He shot Xenophilius too,
though.”
though.”
“That might have been a stray bullet, or a ricochet,” Hermione said. “I think
if Colin had wanted to kill him, he’d have shot him several times. We
certainly trained for that.”
if Colin had wanted to kill him, he’d have shot him several times. We
certainly trained for that.”
Harry refrained from commenting that that training almost led to his own death
— it hadn’t been her fault. Though his friend would probably not believe it.
— it hadn’t been her fault. Though his friend would probably not believe it.
Not that he could blame her — he couldn’t help feeling guilty himself.
---
Ron Weasley felt like hexing both his girlfriend and his best friend. They
were still blaming themselves! He took a deep breath — he could lose his
temper right now — and rubbed his side. Pomfrey had said he should rest a day
or two.
were still blaming themselves! He took a deep breath — he could lose his
temper right now — and rubbed his side. Pomfrey had said he should rest a day
or two.
“Not even Dumbledore expected this,” he began. “There was no way you could
have expected this. No one ever heard of something like this being possible.”
have expected this. No one ever heard of something like this being possible.”
“There were tales of houngans controlling people,” Hermione said, her jaw set.
“Not like this. Not from afar.” At least Ron thought so.
“Still…” She bit her lower lip.
“You can’t think of everything. No one can. It wasn’t your fault.”
Hermione slowly nodded.
Ron didn’t think she was convinced, but hopefully it helped, he wrapped an arm
around her waist, pulling her close for a moment, Then he turned to his
friend. “And it’s not your fault either, Harry. You were surprised, blinded,
deafened, and almost killed.”
around her waist, pulling her close for a moment, Then he turned to his
friend. “And it’s not your fault either, Harry. You were surprised, blinded,
deafened, and almost killed.”
“I still should have used a Stunner,” Harry said, frowning.
“You know what Moody said about Stunners.”
“That they’re great when facing a single enemy?” Harry snorted.
“You didn’t know there was only one,” Ron shot back. “And you know what
happens if we assume there’s only one.” That had been a very painful lesson.
happens if we assume there’s only one.” That had been a very painful lesson.
“Technically, there were two,” Hermione added. “They just split up.”
“You saved Luna and her dad,” Ron went on. “There was no time for you to wait
until you could recognise him, and make certain there was only one of them.”
until you could recognise him, and make certain there was only one of them.”
“I didn’t actually look for more enemies after he was dead. I went to save
Xenophilius,” Harry said.
Xenophilius,” Harry said.
“And Moody will not be happy about that,” Ron said. “But you did save lives.”
“Doesn’t make killing Colin right,” Harry muttered.
“It wasn’t right, but it wasn’t your fault.” Ron reached out with his free arm
and pulled Harry into a hug with himself and Hermione. His friend stiffened,
but didn’t resist, and Ron could feel him gradually relax.
and pulled Harry into a hug with himself and Hermione. His friend stiffened,
but didn’t resist, and Ron could feel him gradually relax.
They remained like that for some time.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 20th, 1997**
Albus Dumbledore had to hand it to Tom — this curse had been a masterstroke.
Both in the timing of its use, and the effects it would have. It had been bad
enough to see so many Ministry employees and even Wizengamot members struck
with withered, dead limbs. But now, after it had been revealed that they could
be controlled by the Dark Lord and even ordered to attack their own families…
Tom’s leverage on the families of the victims, not to mention on the victims
themselves, was too great.
Both in the timing of its use, and the effects it would have. It had been bad
enough to see so many Ministry employees and even Wizengamot members struck
with withered, dead limbs. But now, after it had been revealed that they could
be controlled by the Dark Lord and even ordered to attack their own families…
Tom’s leverage on the families of the victims, not to mention on the victims
themselves, was too great.
He straightened up from where he had been bent over Bertie’s unconscious form,
which was secured to a bed in the bowels of the Ministry, ignoring the slight
pain that caused to his back, and holstered his wand.
which was secured to a bed in the bowels of the Ministry, ignoring the slight
pain that caused to his back, and holstered his wand.
“Ingenious!” Next to him, Saul Croaker, the Head of the Department of
Mysteries, was still moving his wand through complicated spells. “He used the
dead limb as a conduit to control the body! He found a way to use spells meant
to control the undead to control the living! Even the Thief’s Downfall only
removes an existing compulsion, but will not remove the withering curse that
serves as the base curse, allowing the Dark Lord to retake control of the
victim anytime he chooses!”
Mysteries, was still moving his wand through complicated spells. “He used the
dead limb as a conduit to control the body! He found a way to use spells meant
to control the undead to control the living! Even the Thief’s Downfall only
removes an existing compulsion, but will not remove the withering curse that
serves as the base curse, allowing the Dark Lord to retake control of the
victim anytime he chooses!”
Albus suppressed a sigh. It figured that the Unspeakables couldn’t be bothered
to actually get involved in the war until a new kind of magic had been
discovered. “It is based upon houngan spells.”
to actually get involved in the war until a new kind of magic had been
discovered. “It is based upon houngan spells.”
“Are you certain?” Saul sounded as if he was frowning behind the magic hiding
his face. “I think there are some similarities to the work Grindelwald did on
Inferi.”
his face. “I think there are some similarities to the work Grindelwald did on
Inferi.”
“Trust me,” Albus said, with more tension in his voice than could be blamed on
his lack of sleep, ‘It is not related to Grindelwald’s studies.’ He was quite
familiar with the spells Gellert had created. “It is definitely based upon
houngan magic.”
his lack of sleep, ‘It is not related to Grindelwald’s studies.’ He was quite
familiar with the spells Gellert had created. “It is definitely based upon
houngan magic.”
Saul was cocking his head slightly. He had done that as a student too. “I see.
Your excursion in ’57?”
Your excursion in ’57?”
“Yes. As you deduced, it stems from their ways to control the dead, not the
living.” Albus had had to teach the masters of the Magical Caribbean that
trying to expand their fiefdoms into North America had consequences they
couldn’t afford. Fortunately, he had had a lot of experience dealing with
Inferi from the war with Gellert. “I destroyed enough of their creations to
know that.”
living.” Albus had had to teach the masters of the Magical Caribbean that
trying to expand their fiefdoms into North America had consequences they
couldn’t afford. Fortunately, he had had a lot of experience dealing with
Inferi from the war with Gellert. “I destroyed enough of their creations to
know that.”
“I would have expected them to use their zombies, not their Inferi. They are,
after all, famous for having many muggle villages ready to fight for them when
in need.”
after all, famous for having many muggle villages ready to fight for them when
in need.”
Albus was reminded that for all his brilliance as a spellcrafter and
researcher, Saul was neither a politician nor a strategist. “Using
mind-controlled muggles in such numbers to conquer North American Wizard
Enclaves would have threatened the Statute of Secrecy, in light of the
political situation in the muggle world.” Of which Saul, like so many
purebloods, was ignorant.
researcher, Saul was neither a politician nor a strategist. “Using
mind-controlled muggles in such numbers to conquer North American Wizard
Enclaves would have threatened the Statute of Secrecy, in light of the
political situation in the muggle world.” Of which Saul, like so many
purebloods, was ignorant.
“Ah.” Albus’s friend nodded. “But you did attack their homes too.”
“The homes of a few, select houngans,” Albus said. “And I managed to surprise
them, so they were unable to call upon their zombies.” Those not already
serving them in their homes, at least. The fighting hadn’t been clean, but it
could have been worse. And their practice of kidnapping muggleborn children on
vacation in the Caribbean had, if not ended, at least lessened a great deal.
them, so they were unable to call upon their zombies.” Those not already
serving them in their homes, at least. The fighting hadn’t been clean, but it
could have been worse. And their practice of kidnapping muggleborn children on
vacation in the Caribbean had, if not ended, at least lessened a great deal.
Saul, of course, only cared about the magical aspects. “But still… how could
the Dark Lord control a living, ensouled being, even if one limb was dead,
with a spell controlling dead bodies? And the bodies of wizards, to boot? That
goes against Gunther’s theory.”
the Dark Lord control a living, ensouled being, even if one limb was dead,
with a spell controlling dead bodies? And the bodies of wizards, to boot? That
goes against Gunther’s theory.”
“Yes,” Albus said, nodding, ‘that is the question.’ Gunther’s theory had not
been proven, but neither had it been disproven ever since it had been
formulated, decades ago. “Once we know this, we can cure them. Or at least
prevent the Dark Lord from controlling his victims.”
been proven, but neither had it been disproven ever since it had been
formulated, decades ago. “Once we know this, we can cure them. Or at least
prevent the Dark Lord from controlling his victims.”
“Yes, yes.” Saul was staring at Bertie. “We’ll need to experiment.”
“With the utmost care,” Albus said. His tone carried enough of a threat to
even make Saul, who was caught up in the research already, take notice.
even make Saul, who was caught up in the research already, take notice.
“Of course, of course.” Albus’s friend made a dismissive gesture with his free
hand.
hand.
Albus felt not quite as guilty as he probably should at knowing that Saul’s
research would make Tom consider him an enemy. It might even put the whole
department firmly into the Ministry’s camp, though the Headmaster was quite
certain that the Dark Lord had spies among the Unspeakables as well, and would
know that, as a whole, the Department of Mysteries was still focused only on
research, and safeguarding those magics too dangerous to see the light of day.
research would make Tom consider him an enemy. It might even put the whole
department firmly into the Ministry’s camp, though the Headmaster was quite
certain that the Dark Lord had spies among the Unspeakables as well, and would
know that, as a whole, the Department of Mysteries was still focused only on
research, and safeguarding those magics too dangerous to see the light of day.
A policy Albus doubted Tom would let the Department continue, should he win
the war.
the war.
---
“Acting Minister.” Amelia greeted Albus with a nod when he entered her office.
“Amelia.” He nodded back and sank into the seat in front of her desk. He had
never sought the position, had taken pains to discourage any speculation about
it, even, and yet here he was — as Chief Warlock, he was Cornelius’s successor
until another Minister could be elected. As tragic as the reason was, it also
facilitated certain things. “What’s the situation with the victims of the
withering curse?”
never sought the position, had taken pains to discourage any speculation about
it, even, and yet here he was — as Chief Warlock, he was Cornelius’s successor
until another Minister could be elected. As tragic as the reason was, it also
facilitated certain things. “What’s the situation with the victims of the
withering curse?”
Amelia’s lips formed a slight frown. “As ordered, we have taken those we could
find into custody. As far as we can tell, the majority of them are now
secure.”
find into custody. As far as we can tell, the majority of them are now
secure.”
Most of them would have been captured in the Ministry, attacking it, Albus
knew.
knew.
“But a few have been reported as missing by their families,” Amelia continued.
Her frown deepened.
Her frown deepened.
“I think it is rather unlikely that the Dark Lord has told them to go into
hiding.” He would not call them to his base either.
hiding.” He would not call them to his base either.
“Yes.” Amelia glanced at him. “I suspect that they are being hidden by their
own families.”
own families.”
Out of shame, or because they didn’t trust the Ministry to save them. Or
because they were ready to make a deal with the Dark Lord. Albus didn’t have
to lay that out; Amelia was already aware of that possibility. “That cannot be
helped. But we have the vast majority of them in custody. At least of the
survivors.”
because they were ready to make a deal with the Dark Lord. Albus didn’t have
to lay that out; Amelia was already aware of that possibility. “That cannot be
helped. But we have the vast majority of them in custody. At least of the
survivors.”
“My Aurors and Hit-Wizards were protecting the Ministry. That was their duty,
and I’ll not punish them for choosing not to risk their own lives, and those
of their co-workers, to save the attackers.” Amelia stared at him.
and I’ll not punish them for choosing not to risk their own lives, and those
of their co-workers, to save the attackers.” Amelia stared at him.
“I am not about to condemn them for it, either.” Albus would have been a
hypocrite for doing so, after assuring Harry that he was not to blame. Or more
of a hypocrite — he knew his sins. “I was just remarking on the tragic loss of
life, so close on the heels of the Battle of the Ministry.”
hypocrite for doing so, after assuring Harry that he was not to blame. Or more
of a hypocrite — he knew his sins. “I was just remarking on the tragic loss of
life, so close on the heels of the Battle of the Ministry.”
“Yes. Which has sent morale plummeting. Even my veterans are expecting another
blow to come soon. We can only hope that this was the Dark Lord’s last
surprise.”
blow to come soon. We can only hope that this was the Dark Lord’s last
surprise.”
It was a faint hope, Albus knew — Tom was crafty and cunning. But… “We have
gained a respite, at least, unless I am gravely mistaken. Nevertheless, we
need to sedate the victims of this curse, lest they rise and attack us again
at a most inconvenient time.”
gained a respite, at least, unless I am gravely mistaken. Nevertheless, we
need to sedate the victims of this curse, lest they rise and attack us again
at a most inconvenient time.”
Amelia sighed. “Until we know whether that will actually stop the Dark Lord
from ordering them around, that will tie up more wands. Wands we need
elsewhere.”
from ordering them around, that will tie up more wands. Wands we need
elsewhere.”
Which was, of course, part of the reason Tom had done this — to further reduce
the manpower available to the Ministry. Not to mention that such a large
number of helpless enemies of the Dark Lord was also a very tempting target.
“It is just a temporary setback, Amelia. We will find a cure for this curse.”
They had to.
the manpower available to the Ministry. Not to mention that such a large
number of helpless enemies of the Dark Lord was also a very tempting target.
“It is just a temporary setback, Amelia. We will find a cure for this curse.”
They had to.
The witch didn’t look as if she believed him. “And how long will that take?”
She put the parchment in her hand down on her desk, forcefully enough to
displace the air so much that a few paper aeroplanes were sent flying. “Can we
hold out that long? And while we search for a cure, what will he be doing?”
She put the parchment in her hand down on her desk, forcefully enough to
displace the air so much that a few paper aeroplanes were sent flying. “Can we
hold out that long? And while we search for a cure, what will he be doing?”
“It will not hinder or delay my plans to destroy him,” Albus said. Not by
much, at least. Harry’s training was continuing, and in a pinch, Alastor would
be able to step in.
much, at least. Harry’s training was continuing, and in a pinch, Alastor would
be able to step in.
Amelia still looked doubtful. She needed more reassurances.
“Trust me. I have an… acquaintance in Jamaica.”
“A houngan?” She was frowning, but she didn’t look quite that cynical any
more.
more.
“Yes. I met him during the troubles in the Caribbean. I think he will be able
to provide me with enough information about the houngan spells used by the
Dark Lord to create a cure.”
to provide me with enough information about the houngan spells used by the
Dark Lord to create a cure.”
“You’ll be delving into the Dark Arts.” Amelia didn’t sound disgusted, or
wary, but calculating. She sat straighter, too.
wary, but calculating. She sat straighter, too.
She was likely considering how to use this information at a later date, Albus
thought. If she knew that he had studied the Dark Arts for much less noble
purposes, with Gellert himself… he smiled gently and just a tad patronisingly.
“You cannot find a remedy without understanding the disease, Amelia. Any
Unspeakable will tell you the same.”
thought. If she knew that he had studied the Dark Arts for much less noble
purposes, with Gellert himself… he smiled gently and just a tad patronisingly.
“You cannot find a remedy without understanding the disease, Amelia. Any
Unspeakable will tell you the same.”
“Saul will claim anything to justify his research and experiments.” The witch
scoffed.
scoffed.
“That does not make him wrong.” At least not when it came to his knowledge.
His ethics, on the other hand… “Between myself and the Department of
Mysteries, we should have a cure for this curse in short order.”
His ethics, on the other hand… “Between myself and the Department of
Mysteries, we should have a cure for this curse in short order.”
“I’ll have to take your word for it.” She leaned back in her seat.
He nodded, conceding the point. “Now, there are several positions left vacant
by recent events.”
by recent events.”
“Traditionally, filling such positions is the prerogative of an elected
Minister.” She summoned the paper aeroplanes back with her wand.
Minister.” She summoned the paper aeroplanes back with her wand.
“Given our circumstances, I do not think that we have the time to follow
tradition,” Albus said. “A functional Ministry is now more crucial than ever.”
If a number of other countries thought that Britain had grown too weak…
tradition,” Albus said. “A functional Ministry is now more crucial than ever.”
If a number of other countries thought that Britain had grown too weak…
“Given the urgency, the Wizengamot could certainly convene quickly,” Amelia
shot back.
shot back.
“With so many of their number still either absent since before the battle, and
therefore suspect, or afflicted by the curse? I think not.” Albus shook his
head slowly. “I would not like to taint my successor’s first term by having
them be elected without a properly convened Wizengamot. Certainly you can see
the problems that would cause.”
therefore suspect, or afflicted by the curse? I think not.” Albus shook his
head slowly. “I would not like to taint my successor’s first term by having
them be elected without a properly convened Wizengamot. Certainly you can see
the problems that would cause.”
Foiled by her own principles, Amelia looked like she had bitten into a
particularly disgusting Every Flavour Bean, but she nodded. “Of course. So,
who do you have in mind for the various positions?”
particularly disgusting Every Flavour Bean, but she nodded. “Of course. So,
who do you have in mind for the various positions?”
Albus noted her wording — Amelia didn’t sound as if she considered his choices
final — but let it slide. She couldn’t do much to stop him now, and she knew
it. He almost shook his head. A Minister for Magic needed more than a bit of
flexibility, and Amelia, despite being among the favourites for the position,
might prove to be too stubborn for the office.
final — but let it slide. She couldn’t do much to stop him now, and she knew
it. He almost shook his head. A Minister for Magic needed more than a bit of
flexibility, and Amelia, despite being among the favourites for the position,
might prove to be too stubborn for the office.
He was facing more time spent on politics and even worse, office politics,
when he should be preparing for his visit to Laron. Not for the first time,
Albus deeply regretted Cornelius’s death.
when he should be preparing for his visit to Laron. Not for the first time,
Albus deeply regretted Cornelius’s death.
---
**Hogwarts, January 20th, 1997**
Inside one of the usually unused rooms near the infirmary, Hermione Granger
was staring at Dennis. Sleeping and with his wounds treated, the boy looked
peaceful. He had wanted to cut his withered arm off, she remembered. And she
had persuaded him and his brother to wait for a cure, instead. And now Colin
was dead and Dennis had killed students for the Dark Lord.
was staring at Dennis. Sleeping and with his wounds treated, the boy looked
peaceful. He had wanted to cut his withered arm off, she remembered. And she
had persuaded him and his brother to wait for a cure, instead. And now Colin
was dead and Dennis had killed students for the Dark Lord.
“Are we going to give him Draught of Living Death?” Justin asked next to her.
“Dumbledore said it was the best way to keep them secure until we find a
cure.” That wasn’t an answer. She sighed. ‘The alternative is cutting the arm
off, but it’s not yet known if that will keep the Dark Lord from controlling
him.’ She closed her eyes and clenched her teeth. “I wish we could keep him,
but we don’t have enough people left to take care of him.” With a glance to
her friend, she added: “Even Seamus will understand that.” She snorted. “He
certainly wouldn’t want to be stuck caring for Dennis if he could be fighting
instead.”
cure.” That wasn’t an answer. She sighed. ‘The alternative is cutting the arm
off, but it’s not yet known if that will keep the Dark Lord from controlling
him.’ She closed her eyes and clenched her teeth. “I wish we could keep him,
but we don’t have enough people left to take care of him.” With a glance to
her friend, she added: “Even Seamus will understand that.” She snorted. “He
certainly wouldn’t want to be stuck caring for Dennis if he could be fighting
instead.”
“Probably,” Justin said. “Will we ask him what he wants?” He nodded at Dennis.
“Could we trust it was him and not the puppet of the Dark Lord talking?”
Hermione glanced at Justin and saw him flinch just a bit. “We don’t know
enough about this curse. Dumbledore and the Unspeakables are researching it.”
Hermione glanced at Justin and saw him flinch just a bit. “We don’t know
enough about this curse. Dumbledore and the Unspeakables are researching it.”
“Can we trust them?”
“We are trusting Dumbledore. The Unspeakables?” She shook her head. “But there
are too many purebloods suffering from this curse. They won’t be able to abuse
this to get to us.”
are too many purebloods suffering from this curse. They won’t be able to abuse
this to get to us.”
“Mary-Jane has still not been taken through a Thief’s Downfall,” Justin
pointed out. “Despite Dumbledore’s promises.”
pointed out. “Despite Dumbledore’s promises.”
“The situation at the Ministry was too volatile for him to risk a leak by the
goblins. So he said.” Hermione shrugged. “Now that Dumbledore is the acting
Minister, we can move her through the one at the Ministry.”
goblins. So he said.” Hermione shrugged. “Now that Dumbledore is the acting
Minister, we can move her through the one at the Ministry.”
“Will we recruit her?”
Odds were that the witch would be another Seamus — or worse. After what the
Aurors had done to her, though, it was understandable. Hermione sighed. “I
think so. We can keep an eye on her that way.” She didn’t have to say that
there wouldn’t be another Allan on their watch. Justin had been there with her
when they had interrogated that monster.
Aurors had done to her, though, it was understandable. Hermione sighed. “I
think so. We can keep an eye on her that way.” She didn’t have to say that
there wouldn’t be another Allan on their watch. Justin had been there with her
when they had interrogated that monster.
“Why did he attack the students?” Justin took a few steps towards Dennis, but
stopped a yard away.
stopped a yard away.
“I don’t know.” She shook her head. “I heard that Voldemort ordered the cursed
to ‘strike at his enemies’, but left it up to them how to execute the order.”
to ‘strike at his enemies’, but left it up to them how to execute the order.”
“So, he picked random massacres?” Justin sounded sceptical.
“Or he had some plan. We won’t know until we can talk to him.” She wasn’t
looking forward to that — Dennis would be devastated once he realised what he
had done. “And that will likely be a while. We’re not going to treat him like
a captured enemy.”
looking forward to that — Dennis would be devastated once he realised what he
had done. “And that will likely be a while. We’re not going to treat him like
a captured enemy.”
“If they are really using Draught of Living Death on all of the cursed, then
it won’t be long before half of Wizarding Britain will be in a magical
slumber,” Justin said.
it won’t be long before half of Wizarding Britain will be in a magical
slumber,” Justin said.
“It’s better than the alternative.” Hermione looked at him. “Imagine if the
Dark Lord orders them to kill themselves.”
Dark Lord orders them to kill themselves.”
The words Justin muttered under his breath would have done the Sergeant proud.
---
**Hogwarts, January 20th, 1997**
Albus Dumbledore had barely returned to Hogwarts and eaten the meal the elves
had prepared for him when Severus appeared before the gargoyle guarding the
entrance to the Headmaster’s office. For a moment, Albus was tempted to
pretend he was still at the Ministry, dealing with the aftermath of the recent
events. He had craved some rest, or at least, a bit of quiet. Fawkes, who was
still barely bigger than a freshly burned phoenix, had certainly acted as if
Albus was in dire need of comfort. But needs must, he thought, sighing, and
let the younger wizard enter.
had prepared for him when Severus appeared before the gargoyle guarding the
entrance to the Headmaster’s office. For a moment, Albus was tempted to
pretend he was still at the Ministry, dealing with the aftermath of the recent
events. He had craved some rest, or at least, a bit of quiet. Fawkes, who was
still barely bigger than a freshly burned phoenix, had certainly acted as if
Albus was in dire need of comfort. But needs must, he thought, sighing, and
let the younger wizard enter.
“Good evening, Severus.”
“Albus.” Severus was stiff and tense, Albus saw, when the other man sat down.
The Headmaster knew the reason for this visit. He sighed. “I haven’t been able
to find a volunteer, yet, Severus. The Ministry is in shambles, so many have
been lost… I’ve been dealing with a myriad of things today.”
to find a volunteer, yet, Severus. The Ministry is in shambles, so many have
been lost… I’ve been dealing with a myriad of things today.”
Severus nodded. “I know. But with all those deaths, it shouldn’t be hard to
find a wizard or witch who has lost everyone they care about, and is willing
to risk everything for a chance at revenge.”
find a wizard or witch who has lost everyone they care about, and is willing
to risk everything for a chance at revenge.”
Like Severus himself, Albus knew. His friend was correct, though — and
unlikely to accept excuses. “There are a number of poor souls who lost their
families, yes.”
unlikely to accept excuses. “There are a number of poor souls who lost their
families, yes.”
“Pick the least useful then. Preferably some dunderhead with a smarter
half-blood heir.” The younger wizard’s sneer was full of loathing and
bitterness, and old wounds — his mother had been disinherited by her parents.
“I trust you already have thought about such matters.”
half-blood heir.” The younger wizard’s sneer was full of loathing and
bitterness, and old wounds — his mother had been disinherited by her parents.
“I trust you already have thought about such matters.”
Albus winced — his friend knew him too well. While he had not planned to act
on such calculations, or so he liked to think, he knew a few wizards who,
while firmly opposed to Voldemort, would not be very helpful in the time after
the Dark Lord’s defeat. He hesitated a moment, then slowly inclined his head.
What was another sin, piled up onto his numerous others? “Balthasar Brinden.
His son was cursed in the Ministry, and killed Brinden’s wife before dying at
his father’s hand.”
on such calculations, or so he liked to think, he knew a few wizards who,
while firmly opposed to Voldemort, would not be very helpful in the time after
the Dark Lord’s defeat. He hesitated a moment, then slowly inclined his head.
What was another sin, piled up onto his numerous others? “Balthasar Brinden.
His son was cursed in the Ministry, and killed Brinden’s wife before dying at
his father’s hand.”
The smile on Severus face was so satisfied and cruel, seeing it hurt Albus
almost more than knowing his friend would soon be dead.
almost more than knowing his friend would soon be dead.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 21st, 1997**
The Ministry might officially be an ally now, but Hermione Granger wasn’t
about to trust the Aurors or Hit-Wizards. The Resistance entered the Atrium
with weapons and wands ready, with John levitating the stunned and bound
Mary-Jane Milton in their midst.
about to trust the Aurors or Hit-Wizards. The Resistance entered the Atrium
with weapons and wands ready, with John levitating the stunned and bound
Mary-Jane Milton in their midst.
Two of the guards at the fireplaces confronted them. Hermione thought she
recognised one of them — a Hufflepuff, two years above her. And the Auror
apparently in command didn’t look that much older. At least his voice didn’t
crack when he asked, “What is the meaning of this?”, but he sounded quite
nervous.
recognised one of them — a Hufflepuff, two years above her. And the Auror
apparently in command didn’t look that much older. At least his voice didn’t
crack when he asked, “What is the meaning of this?”, but he sounded quite
nervous.
Hermione used her best ‘command voice’, as the Major called it. “Imperius
victim. We’re taking her through the Thief’s Downfall, on the order of
Minister Dumbledore.”
victim. We’re taking her through the Thief’s Downfall, on the order of
Minister Dumbledore.”
Whether it was her tone, the Resistance’s reputation, or — as she suspected —
the Minister’s name, it did the trick, and the Auror stepped aside. “Ah…
alright.”
the Minister’s name, it did the trick, and the Auror stepped aside. “Ah…
alright.”
She passed the two wizards with a nod and walked up to the Thief’s Downfall,
set up in an empty door frame, like a metal detector. A number of the wizards
and witches working on repairing the damage to the Atrium were staring at her
and the others. A few even fled further into the Ministry. She heard Seamus
chuckle behind her as she stepped through the magical waterfall. Hermione
didn’t share Seamus’s mirth, though. As satisfying as it might feel to see
those who had worked to persecute the muggleborns shy away in fear, it didn’t
bode well for the future — both for the immediate future, when they would have
to work together to defeat the Dark Lord, and for the time after the war.
set up in an empty door frame, like a metal detector. A number of the wizards
and witches working on repairing the damage to the Atrium were staring at her
and the others. A few even fled further into the Ministry. She heard Seamus
chuckle behind her as she stepped through the magical waterfall. Hermione
didn’t share Seamus’s mirth, though. As satisfying as it might feel to see
those who had worked to persecute the muggleborns shy away in fear, it didn’t
bode well for the future — both for the immediate future, when they would have
to work together to defeat the Dark Lord, and for the time after the war.
But she had to focus on their current mission, which was to finally free
Mary-Jane from the Imperius. Which, fortunately, was the work of just a few
seconds. A minute later, and the rest of the Resistance had passed through the
waterfall as well, and cast spells to dry and clean their weapons and
themselves.
Mary-Jane from the Imperius. Which, fortunately, was the work of just a few
seconds. A minute later, and the rest of the Resistance had passed through the
waterfall as well, and cast spells to dry and clean their weapons and
themselves.
“Alright, let’s head back!” Hermione said. There was no reason to linger.
Justin and Sally-Anne were bringing up the rear this time.
Justin and Sally-Anne were bringing up the rear this time.
But before the group reached the closest fireplace, a wizard stepped out of
it, followed by another. She recognised them at once. Arthur Weasley and his
son, Percy.
it, followed by another. She recognised them at once. Arthur Weasley and his
son, Percy.
“Hermione!” The wizard greeted her.
His son nodded at her and the others. “Hermione. Mister Finnigan. Miss
Dennel.”
Dennel.”
“Mister Weasley. Percy.” She nodded at them. ‘I’m glad to see you have
recovered.’ She truly was. She turned to Justin. “Justin, take the rest to
Hogwarts. John can stay with me,” she added, before he could protest.
recovered.’ She truly was. She turned to Justin. “Justin, take the rest to
Hogwarts. John can stay with me,” she added, before he could protest.
“Alright.” Justin didn’t sound too pleased, but he nodded at her.
Mister Weasley’s warm smile turned into a puzzled one when he noticed the
floating and bound Mary-Jane pass him. “What happened?”
floating and bound Mary-Jane pass him. “What happened?”
“She was under the Imperius, so we took her through the Thief’s Downfall,” she
explained.
explained.
“Ah.” He slowly nodded, then blinked. “But why is she still stunned?”
Hermione noticed that Percy winced — he had probably recognised the girl. She
sighed. “She was imperiused by Aurors, some time ago, to trap us. We don’t
want her to wake up in the middle of the Ministry.” The witch deserved privacy
for that.
sighed. “She was imperiused by Aurors, some time ago, to trap us. We don’t
want her to wake up in the middle of the Ministry.” The witch deserved privacy
for that.
“Oh, I remember that. Dreadful affair.” Mister Weasley sighed loudly. “That
Amelia would allow that…” He shook his head.
Amelia would allow that…” He shook his head.
Percy scoffed. “Why wouldn’t she? As long as the Wizengamot says it’s legal,
it’s good enough for her. I do not think she’ll change should she become the
next Minister.”
it’s good enough for her. I do not think she’ll change should she become the
next Minister.”
That was an alarming thought. “How likely is that?” Hermione said.
“We haven’t heard much news during our convalescence,” Percy said, pursing his
lips, ‘but before the recent events happened, she was considered the most
likely successor to Minister Fudge.’ He lowered his voice a bit. “Things might
have changed with all the dead. Both of us have been promoted. Father’s now
heading the new Office of Anti-Curse Measures and Research, and I’ve been
promoted to the position of Deputy-Head of the Department of Magical
Transportation.”
lips, ‘but before the recent events happened, she was considered the most
likely successor to Minister Fudge.’ He lowered his voice a bit. “Things might
have changed with all the dead. Both of us have been promoted. Father’s now
heading the new Office of Anti-Curse Measures and Research, and I’ve been
promoted to the position of Deputy-Head of the Department of Magical
Transportation.”
“Congratulations.” Hermione smiled. Dumbledore was stacking the Ministry with
his people, then.
his people, then.
“Thank you.” Mister Weasley was beaming at her.
“Thank you.” Percy’s smile looked a bit cynical to Hermione.
“Oh, that reminds me: We’ll have to have dinner together, you, Ron and us!”
Mister Weasley chuckled. “We should have asked you before, but with all the
troubles, there never seemed to be a good occasion. And Molly wanted to invite
you to a proper home — we’re currently just guests of Sirius. But we can eat
dinner at a muggle restaurant!”
Mister Weasley chuckled. “We should have asked you before, but with all the
troubles, there never seemed to be a good occasion. And Molly wanted to invite
you to a proper home — we’re currently just guests of Sirius. But we can eat
dinner at a muggle restaurant!”
A family dinner with her boyfriend’s parents — in the middle of a civil war.
Hermione certainly hadn’t expected that.
Hermione certainly hadn’t expected that.
---
Mary-Jane didn’t scream when they woke her up, back in a private room at
Hogwarts. The muggleborn witch simply started to sob and cry, curled up on her
bed. Hermione raised her hand and took a step closer, then hesitated,
uncertain if she should touch the girl, or if that would make things worse.
Sally-Anne apparently had no such doubts, and moved to hug the other witch.
Hogwarts. The muggleborn witch simply started to sob and cry, curled up on her
bed. Hermione raised her hand and took a step closer, then hesitated,
uncertain if she should touch the girl, or if that would make things worse.
Sally-Anne apparently had no such doubts, and moved to hug the other witch.
Hermione exchanged a glance with Justin, and left the room. Once outside, she
leaned against the wall and closed her eyes for a moment. She remembered the
time she had been under the Imperius herself, in her fourth year. She had been
lost in a haze, utterly relaxed. No worries, no doubts, no thoughts of her own
had crossed her mind. As if she had been drugged. And just as with drugs, once
the curse had been lifted, all her doubts and fears had returned, worse than
before, joined with embarrassment, shame, and the horror of remembering how
helpless she had been. And she hadn’t been forced to betray her friends, and
work for their murderers. She could only imagine what Mary-Jane was feeling
right now.
leaned against the wall and closed her eyes for a moment. She remembered the
time she had been under the Imperius herself, in her fourth year. She had been
lost in a haze, utterly relaxed. No worries, no doubts, no thoughts of her own
had crossed her mind. As if she had been drugged. And just as with drugs, once
the curse had been lifted, all her doubts and fears had returned, worse than
before, joined with embarrassment, shame, and the horror of remembering how
helpless she had been. And she hadn’t been forced to betray her friends, and
work for their murderers. She could only imagine what Mary-Jane was feeling
right now.
And yet she was considering using that spell herself, if it was needed to win
the war or save one of her friends.
the war or save one of her friends.
---
**Hogwarts, January 21st, 1997**
Harry Potter ground his teeth and gripped his wand so tightly, he thought he
could hear the holly crack between his fingers. He had already entered the
Headmaster’s mind once this evening, and now he had to do it again — without a
day to recover. His head was hurting, pain flaring up in step with his
heartbeat.
could hear the holly crack between his fingers. He had already entered the
Headmaster’s mind once this evening, and now he had to do it again — without a
day to recover. His head was hurting, pain flaring up in step with his
heartbeat.
He wanted to close his eyes and rest. Sleep. Give his mind time to sort out
what were his memories, and what were glimpses he had caught from the
Headmaster’s. But that would be giving up. And he wouldn’t do that. Everyone
was counting on him to master this spell, so he could defeat — no, destroy —
Voldemort once and for all. He wouldn’t, couldn’t let them down.
what were his memories, and what were glimpses he had caught from the
Headmaster’s. But that would be giving up. And he wouldn’t do that. Everyone
was counting on him to master this spell, so he could defeat — no, destroy —
Voldemort once and for all. He wouldn’t, couldn’t let them down.
He raised his wand, pointed it at the Headmaster’s forehead, and spat the
incantation out.
incantation out.
“Legilimens!”
Once more the world shrank to pinpoint of light, then expanded, and Harry
found himself floating in a room full of spheres of all sizes. They were
moving around, some growing, some shrinking, and each was filling his ears
with words and noise and sometimes music, forming a cacophony that made just
thinking hard and painful.
found himself floating in a room full of spheres of all sizes. They were
moving around, some growing, some shrinking, and each was filling his ears
with words and noise and sometimes music, forming a cacophony that made just
thinking hard and painful.
But this was not his first time. He focused his mind, and concentrated on one
of the spheres, until the rest had faded — pushed away, even. Until this
sphere was all he could see, until it was large enough to swallow him, close
enough to touch… and he was inside.
of the spheres, until the rest had faded — pushed away, even. Until this
sphere was all he could see, until it was large enough to swallow him, close
enough to touch… and he was inside.
He found himself in the middle of a field with strange plants. Sugar cane, he
realised, after a second. He could see a white mansion in the distance. It
looked as if he was on a plantation — and an ancient one. Or at least an
old-fashioned one. As he made his way through the field, he could see no signs
of modern appliances — no antennas, no cars, no machines.
realised, after a second. He could see a white mansion in the distance. It
looked as if he was on a plantation — and an ancient one. Or at least an
old-fashioned one. As he made his way through the field, he could see no signs
of modern appliances — no antennas, no cars, no machines.
How old was Dumbledore?, he asked himself, as he stepped on a lawn — perfectly
maintained, he noted with a brief glance — and started walking towards the
mansion’s main entrance. He had barely covered half the distance when the
massive door was blown off its hinges. A body flew out of the dust cloud the
explosion had left, landing hard on the lawn. Another figure ran out of the
cloud. A young man, just a few years older, at most, than Harry himself.
maintained, he noted with a brief glance — and started walking towards the
mansion’s main entrance. He had barely covered half the distance when the
massive door was blown off its hinges. A body flew out of the dust cloud the
explosion had left, landing hard on the lawn. Another figure ran out of the
cloud. A young man, just a few years older, at most, than Harry himself.
“Master!” the man cried, rushing to the fallen figure’s side.
“Step away from him, boy!”
Harry blinked. That was Dumbledore! But younger. And his expression… Cold and
distant. He had never seen the Headmaster looking like that.
distant. He had never seen the Headmaster looking like that.
The young wizard was trembling, but raised his wand. An almost casual swish of
Dumbledore’s wand disarmed him with so much force, he was thrown very nearly
on top of Harry, a dozen yards back.
Dumbledore’s wand disarmed him with so much force, he was thrown very nearly
on top of Harry, a dozen yards back.
“You have a loyal apprentice, Mister Francis. Although I wonder just how
deserving of his loyalty you are,” Dumbledore said, stepping closer to the
older man, who was now feebly moving. “Did you kidnap him as well, years ago?”
deserving of his loyalty you are,” Dumbledore said, stepping closer to the
older man, who was now feebly moving. “Did you kidnap him as well, years ago?”
Harry saw that the young man in front of him, who had been trying to get up
despite a broken leg, froze when he heard that.
despite a broken leg, froze when he heard that.
The other wizard — Mister Francis, Harry presumed — muttered something he
couldn’t understand, then spat. He had skin darker than Dean’s, and was
wearing the shredded remains of what might have been a white suit.
couldn’t understand, then spat. He had skin darker than Dean’s, and was
wearing the shredded remains of what might have been a white suit.
Dumbledore shook his head. “I told you that the times of enslaving muggleborns
in the Caribbean were past. But you and your friends didn’t want to listen.
People like you seldom do listen to mere words. You usually need a
demonstration — or a lesson.”
in the Caribbean were past. But you and your friends didn’t want to listen.
People like you seldom do listen to mere words. You usually need a
demonstration — or a lesson.”
Francis yelled something, and the young man flinched. Dumbledore looked at him
and shook his head. “Do not waste your life trying to protect this man, boy.
He’s not worth it.” Turning back to the prone wizard — houngan, Harry
corrected himself — Dumbledore went on, talking in a tone as if he was
discussing the weather, “I do think you and a few others of your friends will
have to serve as an object lesson. To encourage, as the French are fond of
saying, the rest of you to rethink your policies.”
and shook his head. “Do not waste your life trying to protect this man, boy.
He’s not worth it.” Turning back to the prone wizard — houngan, Harry
corrected himself — Dumbledore went on, talking in a tone as if he was
discussing the weather, “I do think you and a few others of your friends will
have to serve as an object lesson. To encourage, as the French are fond of
saying, the rest of you to rethink your policies.”
The panting, bleeding houngan spat again, then started to yell — but
Dumbledore interrupted him at once with a spell that smashed into his head
with a loud crack.
Dumbledore interrupted him at once with a spell that smashed into his head
with a loud crack.
“There won’t be any dying curses either, Mister Francis,” the Headmaster said.
“Diffindo.”
“Diffindo.”
Harry saw the head of the man roll over the lawn, trailing blood, and
Dumbledore slowly picking up a wand. Behind the Headmaster, the mansion was
burning. Harry blinked. That looked very familiar. He had seen that scene
before, just… different. He started to walk towards the burning building,
taking in the details. It looked right, and yet… it didn’t fit. The scene
didn’t fit.
Dumbledore slowly picking up a wand. Behind the Headmaster, the mansion was
burning. Harry blinked. That looked very familiar. He had seen that scene
before, just… different. He started to walk towards the burning building,
taking in the details. It looked right, and yet… it didn’t fit. The scene
didn’t fit.
The closer he got, the more certain he was. The burning mansion was not real.
Or had not been real. Just when he was about to touch it, it collapsed, and
for a moment, Harry was floating in a dark, empty space.
Or had not been real. Just when he was about to touch it, it collapsed, and
for a moment, Harry was floating in a dark, empty space.
Then he was back in the Headmaster’s office, kneeling on the floor, and his
head hurt worse than ever. He hissed, clenching his jaw, so he wouldn’t
scream, and sucked in as much air as he could.
head hurt worse than ever. He hissed, clenching his jaw, so he wouldn’t
scream, and sucked in as much air as he could.
“Very good, Harry. You saw through one of my altered memories, and for a
moment, you broke through my defences.” Dumbledore sounded as tired as Harry
felt, but he was smiling.
moment, you broke through my defences.” Dumbledore sounded as tired as Harry
felt, but he was smiling.
“It was an altered memory?” Harry managed to say while Ron helped him up and
eased him back into his seat.
eased him back into his seat.
“Yes, it was. Inspired, so to speak, by a visit I paid to Jamaica, almost
forty years ago.” Dumbledore leaned back in his seat, his gaze rising to the
ceiling. “I have been thinking a lot about that visit lately, so it is not
surprising that it ended up being used for your training.”
forty years ago.” Dumbledore leaned back in his seat, his gaze rising to the
ceiling. “I have been thinking a lot about that visit lately, so it is not
surprising that it ended up being used for your training.”
“Ah.” Harry closed his eyes and rubbed his temples. It didn’t help much.
“You have made a lot of progress. You will soon be able to penetrate the Dark
Lord’s defences. But I think you need to rest now.”
Lord’s defences. But I think you need to rest now.”
Harry started to nod in agreement, but stopped when that caused his headache
to grow even worse. He couldn’t help wondering what exactly, other than the
mansion, the Headmaster had altered in the memory he had seen.
to grow even worse. He couldn’t help wondering what exactly, other than the
mansion, the Headmaster had altered in the memory he had seen.
---
**Hogwarts, January 22nd, 1997**
“Are you certain of this course of action?” Albus Dumbledore had to ask, even
though he knew the answer. The two men standing in front of him had made up
their minds, and nothing would deter them. Neither thought he had anything to
live for, not any more. Albus thought that he might be able to make Balthasar
change his mind, given enough time — but then, he hadn’t been able to change
Severus’s, not in almost twenty years.
though he knew the answer. The two men standing in front of him had made up
their minds, and nothing would deter them. Neither thought he had anything to
live for, not any more. Albus thought that he might be able to make Balthasar
change his mind, given enough time — but then, he hadn’t been able to change
Severus’s, not in almost twenty years.
Predictably, both shook their heads, Balthasar with a grim expression, Severus
with a faint sneer.
with a faint sneer.
“Very well. I have prevailed upon Miss Granger and her friends to be ready to
take down the wards, and our French friends, as well as some Order members
suited for such a mission, will be joining us once we have a location.”
Severus was without a doubt aware that Sirius and the Weasleys were the
obvious choice, but Albus was not about to rub it in. He could do that much,
at least, for his friend.
take down the wards, and our French friends, as well as some Order members
suited for such a mission, will be joining us once we have a location.”
Severus was without a doubt aware that Sirius and the Weasleys were the
obvious choice, but Albus was not about to rub it in. He could do that much,
at least, for his friend.
The potioneer produced a vial, and a small envelope. “A bit of hair from a
first year Slytherin student.” He handed it to Balthasar, who took it almost
eagerly. A bundle of school robes lay on Albus’s desk.
first year Slytherin student.” He handed it to Balthasar, who took it almost
eagerly. A bundle of school robes lay on Albus’s desk.
Albus refrained from sighing. The two had made their choice; now all he could
do was honour it — and try his best to make certain they wouldn’t die in vain.
do was honour it — and try his best to make certain they wouldn’t die in vain.
Balthasar chuckled as he raised the vial. “Martha always used to say that I
never grew up. She’d be very amused to see me change into a young boy.”
never grew up. She’d be very amused to see me change into a young boy.”
Albus forced himself to laugh at the joke.
---
“By using shaped charges, we can target the wards without doing much damage to
the building. Planting them in the ground, and at an angle, will further help
keep the building intact,” Hermione Granger explained. “They can be used to
breach doors and walls too, during the assault.” She looked at the three men
in the Headmaster’s office.
the building. Planting them in the ground, and at an angle, will further help
keep the building intact,” Hermione Granger explained. “They can be used to
breach doors and walls too, during the assault.” She looked at the three men
in the Headmaster’s office.
“Did you test these ‘charges’?” Snape was wearing his usual scowl. “I do not
intend to risk my life only for some untested muggle contraption to fail at
such a crucial time.”
intend to risk my life only for some untested muggle contraption to fail at
such a crucial time.”
“We have used similar charges before, and I trust my calculations.”
“You haven’t tested them, then. You have bombs you already used on other
targets. Use those!” Snape spat.
targets. Use those!” Snape spat.
“Those bombs destroyed the buildings as well as the wards. If we use them
here, then…”
here, then…”
“Did I stutter, Miss Granger? Or do you think I’m fool? I said I will not
allow this mission to be put in jeopardy by using untested bombs.” Snape
sneered at her.
allow this mission to be put in jeopardy by using untested bombs.” Snape
sneered at her.
Hermione bit her lower lip so that she would not yell at the impossible man.
Didn’t he understand that he would die if they used the same type of bomb that
the Resistance had dropped on Malfoy Manor? She glanced at the Headmaster,
surely he would be able to make Snape understand what he was demanding. But
Dumbledore was looking sad and grim. And not saying anything. That meant…
Didn’t he understand that he would die if they used the same type of bomb that
the Resistance had dropped on Malfoy Manor? She glanced at the Headmaster,
surely he would be able to make Snape understand what he was demanding. But
Dumbledore was looking sad and grim. And not saying anything. That meant…
Hermione gasped when she realised that Snape was very much aware of what he
was asking for. “We will be using the bombs then,” she pressed out, staring at
him.
was asking for. “We will be using the bombs then,” she pressed out, staring at
him.
“Good.” He turned away, to the Headmaster. “With that settled, I think we are
ready.”
ready.”
“Indeed,” Dumbledore slowly stood up. “The others have gathered as well. Let
us be on our way then.”
us be on our way then.”
---
“I don’t like this,” Hermione Granger muttered ten minutes later. “We’re not
prepared for this.”
prepared for this.”
“But it’s an opportunity we can’t afford to let slip by,” Justin said. “And
they wouldn’t let us, anyway.” He nodded at the rest of the Resistance in the
room.
they wouldn’t let us, anyway.” He nodded at the rest of the Resistance in the
room.
“I know.” Hermione didn’t quite frown. But she pursed her lips. Seamus, Tania
and Louise, even John and Sally-Anne, all were eager to kill the Dark Lord. To
end this war before more people died. And so they were off to another
ill-prepared mission on Dumbledore’s behalf. And once more with the Delacours,
the d’Aigles, and the Weasleys at their side. If Hermione were superstitious,
she would consider this a bad omen. But there was a reason she had walked out
of Divination.
and Louise, even John and Sally-Anne, all were eager to kill the Dark Lord. To
end this war before more people died. And so they were off to another
ill-prepared mission on Dumbledore’s behalf. And once more with the Delacours,
the d’Aigles, and the Weasleys at their side. If Hermione were superstitious,
she would consider this a bad omen. But there was a reason she had walked out
of Divination.
Still, she would have prefered more time to rest and recover. She didn’t like
leaving Mary-Jane and Jeremy alone either. But it couldn’t be helped — they’d
need everyone able to fight for this. Even with the Headmaster leading the
attack.
leaving Mary-Jane and Jeremy alone either. But it couldn’t be helped — they’d
need everyone able to fight for this. Even with the Headmaster leading the
attack.
“At least there won’t be much left once the bomb goes off,” she muttered.
“Provided they are not meeting the Dark Lord in the middle of a village or
town,” Justin said in a low ’d have to use the shaped charges then. “Snape’s
braver than I thought.”
town,” Justin said in a low ’d have to use the shaped charges then. “Snape’s
braver than I thought.”
“Yes.” And more suicidal too, she added to herself. She glanced at Ron, and at
Harry, who were standing with Sirius’s group. She wanted to be with him, with
them, but she had a responsibility to her own group. A leader couldn’t leave
her troops, not in this situation. And not to hug her boyfriend. The Major had
been clear on that. And Hermione understood that. Intellectually.
Harry, who were standing with Sirius’s group. She wanted to be with him, with
them, but she had a responsibility to her own group. A leader couldn’t leave
her troops, not in this situation. And not to hug her boyfriend. The Major had
been clear on that. And Hermione understood that. Intellectually.
She still wanted to rush over and hug Ron. Just once, before this battle.
---
**Outside Withernsea, Yorkshire, Britain, January 22nd, 1997**
Harry Potter could feel the Dark Lord’s presence the moment he arrived at the
location Dumbledore had directed them to. Without a Supersensory Charm, it was
not too bad, just a faint pain. But the Dark Lord definitely was in the area.
He tried to catch Dumbledore’s attention, but the Headmaster was furiously
casting jinxes to block magical travel.
location Dumbledore had directed them to. Without a Supersensory Charm, it was
not too bad, just a faint pain. But the Dark Lord definitely was in the area.
He tried to catch Dumbledore’s attention, but the Headmaster was furiously
casting jinxes to block magical travel.
“Mate?” Ron asked at his side, wand out.
“I can feel him,” Harry whispered. “He’s nearby.” He stared at the building in
front of them. It was too close to the muggle village for the kind of bomb
used on Malfoy Manor, so the Resistance was already racing ahead to place the
other bombs. The French were spreading out as well — they’d attack from the
rear. Brave as usual, Harry thought — Sirius’s group and the Resistance would
follow Dumbledore in.
front of them. It was too close to the muggle village for the kind of bomb
used on Malfoy Manor, so the Resistance was already racing ahead to place the
other bombs. The French were spreading out as well — they’d attack from the
rear. Brave as usual, Harry thought — Sirius’s group and the Resistance would
follow Dumbledore in.
“We can get him!” Ron said.
Both knew that Voldemort wouldn’t be killed today, but if his body was
destroyed, he’d be reduced to a shade. And by the time he returned, the war
would be over, and Harry would be ready for him.
destroyed, he’d be reduced to a shade. And by the time he returned, the war
would be over, and Harry would be ready for him.
Suddenly, he blinked. The faint pain was growing a bit stronger… was the Dark
Lord moving? They had been checking for tunnels and buried bombs too, so…
Harry closed his eyes and tried to concentrate on his connection to the Dark
Lord. Where was he?
Lord moving? They had been checking for tunnels and buried bombs too, so…
Harry closed his eyes and tried to concentrate on his connection to the Dark
Lord. Where was he?
“Mate?”
“Shh.” He had to focus. Where was Voldemort? He was near, but… there! To his
right. Harry turned, then opened his eyes. “He’s not inside! He’s on our
flank!” he yelled.
right. Harry turned, then opened his eyes. “He’s not inside! He’s on our
flank!” he yelled.
“Retreat!” Dumbledore’s voice was so loud — Amplifying Charm, Harry knew — the
muggles probably heard him.
muggles probably heard him.
“Hermione!” Ron yelled.
Harry whirled around, expecting the worst. But the Resistance members were
already in the air, on their brooms, and speeding away from the building. As
were the two Veela and the other French.
already in the air, on their brooms, and speeding away from the building. As
were the two Veela and the other French.
Ron let out a relieved sigh.
Harry turned his attention back to Voldemort. What was the Dark Lord doing?
Where was he? He gasped. The pain was gone!
Where was he? He gasped. The pain was gone!
“He’s gone,” Harry said, “He’s left.”
“Blimey! It’s burning!” Ron pointed at the building.
Green flames were shooting out of the windows. Harry was familiar with them.
“Fiendfyre!”
---
**Outside Stamford, Lincolnshire, Britain, January 23rd, 1997**
So, Snape had been a traitor, the Dark Lord Voldemort thought when he returned
to his home hours later. A brave, but dumb traitor — as if such a simple plan
would have worked against the heir of Slytherin. Dumbledore must be slipping,
he thought, to have allowed that. Unless it had been a ruse.
to his home hours later. A brave, but dumb traitor — as if such a simple plan
would have worked against the heir of Slytherin. Dumbledore must be slipping,
he thought, to have allowed that. Unless it had been a ruse.
Voldemort pondered this while he summoned a glass and a bottle of wine. If
this had been a ruse, what had been his old enemy’s true plan? Potter had been
there, and had sensed his own presence. Had that just been a test to see how
well the boy could track him?
this had been a ruse, what had been his old enemy’s true plan? Potter had been
there, and had sensed his own presence. Had that just been a test to see how
well the boy could track him?
If it had been a test, then the boy had failed. No one had followed the Dark
Lord, not to his first, nor to his second decoy safe house. And Dumbledore
wouldn’t have sacrificed even a useless spy like Snape for a mere test. Not
when he could have used the traitor still — there were few potioneers of
Snape’s skill.
Lord, not to his first, nor to his second decoy safe house. And Dumbledore
wouldn’t have sacrificed even a useless spy like Snape for a mere test. Not
when he could have used the traitor still — there were few potioneers of
Snape’s skill.
No, it had not been a test. A gamble then? Was Dumbledore ruthless enough to
sacrifice Snape for a small chance to hurt him? The Dark Lord filled his
glass, then nodded. Yes, he would be. Snape was a good potioneer, but
Dumbledore was an alchemist. And the old wizard had had almost twenty years to
use Snape as a brewer. The spy had been expendable. Doubly so since his enemy
must have known what Snape had done to earn his Dark Mark.
sacrifice Snape for a small chance to hurt him? The Dark Lord filled his
glass, then nodded. Yes, he would be. Snape was a good potioneer, but
Dumbledore was an alchemist. And the old wizard had had almost twenty years to
use Snape as a brewer. The spy had been expendable. Doubly so since his enemy
must have known what Snape had done to earn his Dark Mark.
Well, the gamble had not paid off. The Dark Lord almost regretted not having
prepared a more lethal trap. If he had placed a few bombs nearby… but his
enemies would have checked for that, after his ambush in Sussex. He would have
to console himself with the thought that at least Snape and whoever had been
posing as the child Voldemort had demanded would have suffered before their
deaths. A result well worth a little Polyjuice, an Imperius, and a short
lesson in conjuring Fiendfyre.
prepared a more lethal trap. If he had placed a few bombs nearby… but his
enemies would have checked for that, after his ambush in Sussex. He would have
to console himself with the thought that at least Snape and whoever had been
posing as the child Voldemort had demanded would have suffered before their
deaths. A result well worth a little Polyjuice, an Imperius, and a short
lesson in conjuring Fiendfyre.
---
**Cokeworth, Midlands, England, January 24th, 1997**
Albus Dumbledore entered the small park and looked around. It wasn’t a pretty
sight. Dirty snow covered the playground in the centre, and the bushes and
trees were mostly bare, naked branches sticking out and up. He wouldn’t have
chosen such a spot, but it wasn’t his decision.
sight. Dirty snow covered the playground in the centre, and the bushes and
trees were mostly bare, naked branches sticking out and up. He wouldn’t have
chosen such a spot, but it wasn’t his decision.
Sighing, he cast a quick Muggle-Repelling Charm, then reached into one of the
pockets of his robes and pulled out a small urn. A quick tap of his wand
enlarged it. There was no name on the urn, as per the instructions left to
him. None was needed, either.
pockets of his robes and pulled out a small urn. A quick tap of his wand
enlarged it. There was no name on the urn, as per the instructions left to
him. None was needed, either.
He flicked his wand, and the lid of the urn floated up, followed by a thin
trail of the ashes contained within. A swish, and the ashes started to spread
through the park, between the bushes, quickly sinking into the soil thanks to
a small charm.
trail of the ashes contained within. A swish, and the ashes started to spread
through the park, between the bushes, quickly sinking into the soil thanks to
a small charm.
The Fiendfyre had burned for hours, and hadn’t left much of either Severus or
Balthasar, nor of whoever had played the role of the Dark Lord. It had taken
Albus some effort, even, to ensure that he would not take the wrong body to be
cremated — Balthasar had wished to be buried with his family. They wouldn’t
mind that their father and husband had not been in his own body at his death,
Albus thought.
Balthasar, nor of whoever had played the role of the Dark Lord. It had taken
Albus some effort, even, to ensure that he would not take the wrong body to be
cremated — Balthasar had wished to be buried with his family. They wouldn’t
mind that their father and husband had not been in his own body at his death,
Albus thought.
The urn had emptied in the time he had let his thoughts wander, and the
floating trail of ashes was dispersing.
floating trail of ashes was dispersing.
Albus shook his head at the sight. It was sad to think that, as far as he
knew, this was the only place Severus had ever been truly happy in his life.
The place he had met Lily Evans as a child. The Headmaster liked to think that
as a student, his friend had been happy at Hogwarts as well, but he knew that
for Severus, his time at school had been forever tainted by the end of his
friendship with Lily.
knew, this was the only place Severus had ever been truly happy in his life.
The place he had met Lily Evans as a child. The Headmaster liked to think that
as a student, his friend had been happy at Hogwarts as well, but he knew that
for Severus, his time at school had been forever tainted by the end of his
friendship with Lily.
He closed the urn, and vanished it, then checked his watch. There would be a
wake for his friend, at Hogwarts. It would be a very small affair. Apart from
Albus himself, Severus hadn’t had any friends, only colleagues and
acquaintances. Duty and custom would make them attend, nothing more.
wake for his friend, at Hogwarts. It would be a very small affair. Apart from
Albus himself, Severus hadn’t had any friends, only colleagues and
acquaintances. Duty and custom would make them attend, nothing more.
Albus shook his head. In a way, that was even more tragic than Severus’s
death.
death.
---
**North of Santa Cruz, Jamaica, January 25th, 1997**
The area of the Black River hadn’t changed much since he had last visited the
island, Albus Dumbledore thought. Nor had the hidden enclave of the late
Jevaun Francis. The swamp outside looked the same, the fields looked the same,
and the mansion looked the same. Albus hoped that the workers tending to the
fields were not enslaved muggles, though. He would hate to have to repeat the
lesson he had taught Francis.
island, Albus Dumbledore thought. Nor had the hidden enclave of the late
Jevaun Francis. The swamp outside looked the same, the fields looked the same,
and the mansion looked the same. Albus hoped that the workers tending to the
fields were not enslaved muggles, though. He would hate to have to repeat the
lesson he had taught Francis.
As he approached the main entrance, the door was opened and a young woman in a
thin, short linen robe bowed to him. “The Master awaits you in his parlour,
sir.”
thin, short linen robe bowed to him. “The Master awaits you in his parlour,
sir.”
“Thank you.” She didn’t look like an apprentice, but looks could be deceiving,
Albus thought. He knew that very well. Still, he doubted that the current
owner of the mansion, Bedard Laron, would try to ambush him. He wouldn’t
consider Bedard a friend, but they were not enemies. And the man owed him for
letting him not just live, but succeed his old master — and for keeping quiet
about just how cooperative Bedard had been when it came to helping with
Dumbledore’s lessons for the houngan rulers of Magical Jamaica.
Albus thought. He knew that very well. Still, he doubted that the current
owner of the mansion, Bedard Laron, would try to ambush him. He wouldn’t
consider Bedard a friend, but they were not enemies. And the man owed him for
letting him not just live, but succeed his old master — and for keeping quiet
about just how cooperative Bedard had been when it came to helping with
Dumbledore’s lessons for the houngan rulers of Magical Jamaica.
The mansion hadn’t changed much inside either, apart from the repairs.
Jamaican houngans seemed to be as conservative as the Old Families in Britain.
Bedard, as Albus saw when the girl opened the door to the parlour, was even
wearing the same suit his predecessor had worn when Albus had killed him over
thirty years ago.
Jamaican houngans seemed to be as conservative as the Old Families in Britain.
Bedard, as Albus saw when the girl opened the door to the parlour, was even
wearing the same suit his predecessor had worn when Albus had killed him over
thirty years ago.
“Good day, Bedard.” He nodded at the houngan.
“Mister Dumbledore.” The man’s smile was thin, and just this side of polite.
“I am honoured to have you visit my humble abode. Very honoured, even, in
light of the current situation in Britain, which no doubt requires your
constant presence.”
“I am honoured to have you visit my humble abode. Very honoured, even, in
light of the current situation in Britain, which no doubt requires your
constant presence.”
The boy he had left back then had grown some teeth, Albus thought. His own
smile widened a bit. “It is exactly due to that situation that I have come to
visit.”
smile widened a bit. “It is exactly due to that situation that I have come to
visit.”
“I can assure you that neither myself, nor my colleagues, have had anything to
do with this ‘withering curse’, as the newspapers call it.” Bedard said
quickly — too quickly. “We have kept the agreement.”
do with this ‘withering curse’, as the newspapers call it.” Bedard said
quickly — too quickly. “We have kept the agreement.”
Albus sighed loudly. “I did not doubt that. But the curse is of houngan
origin. That I am certain of.”
origin. That I am certain of.”
“That doesn’t mean any one of us was responsible. As much as we strive to keep
our secrets, there are always dissidents and spies.” Bedard sighed. “A plague
Britain is familiar with as well, I believe. But where are my manners? Please,
have a seat.” He gestured to the couch.
our secrets, there are always dissidents and spies.” Bedard sighed. “A plague
Britain is familiar with as well, I believe. But where are my manners? Please,
have a seat.” He gestured to the couch.
“Indeed. I think it’s very likely that the Dark Lord currently making trouble
in Britain stole your secrets, and then improved upon them.” Albus sat down,
after a quick and subtle check of the couch. “If one of your colleagues had
created such a curse, then I think we would have heard of it.” The infighting
on the island would have rivaled the current war in Britain, Albus was
certain.
in Britain stole your secrets, and then improved upon them.” Albus sat down,
after a quick and subtle check of the couch. “If one of your colleagues had
created such a curse, then I think we would have heard of it.” The infighting
on the island would have rivaled the current war in Britain, Albus was
certain.
Bedard’s expression soured some more. No houngan would like to hear that a
British wizard had not just taken their own spells, but improved them. “A
compelling argument, I have to admit.”
British wizard had not just taken their own spells, but improved them. “A
compelling argument, I have to admit.”
The girl returned, carrying a tray with glasses and a bottle on it. Albus
passed. He didn’t think Bedard would try to poison him, but there was no need
to take a risk. And he would be needing all his wits. He did use the
distraction, though, to silently dispel a few enchantments in the room. Bedard
was not quite as subtle as he thought — nor as skilled. But then, few could
stand against Albus wielding the wand he had won from Gellert.
passed. He didn’t think Bedard would try to poison him, but there was no need
to take a risk. And he would be needing all his wits. He did use the
distraction, though, to silently dispel a few enchantments in the room. Bedard
was not quite as subtle as he thought — nor as skilled. But then, few could
stand against Albus wielding the wand he had won from Gellert.
Bedard didn’t seem to have noticed that his defences had been rendered far
less effective than they had been. Sipping from his drink, he looked at Albus.
“But even if that were true, how could I help you? I am ignorant of whatever
spell might have formed the base for this curse.” His smile returned.
less effective than they had been. Sipping from his drink, he looked at Albus.
“But even if that were true, how could I help you? I am ignorant of whatever
spell might have formed the base for this curse.” His smile returned.
“Indeed,” Albus said, “but as a houngan of your stature, you have access to
the Library of Souls.”
the Library of Souls.”
Bedard jumped up, letting his glass shatter on the floor. “How do you know
about that?” he hissed, drawing his wand. When he found Albus’s wand pointed
straight at him, though, he froze. His eyes widened even further when nothing
else happened.
about that?” he hissed, drawing his wand. When he found Albus’s wand pointed
straight at him, though, he froze. His eyes widened even further when nothing
else happened.
“Please,” Albus said, smiling.
Trembling, the man slowly stashed his wand again. “Everyone has sworn an Oath
to the Loa! They’d die rather than betray our most sacred secret!”
to the Loa! They’d die rather than betray our most sacred secret!”
“Death, sadly, is no bar to betrayal,” Albus said. ‘I would rather visit with
you as my guide than find my own way there. I might have to break a few things
to enter, and would not know where to start looking for what I seek.’ He
didn’t move his wand. He had hoped that Bedard would be less hostile. But the
man’s reaction to the mere mention of the library had been enough to convince
Albus that some rather disreputable measures would have to be taken. He
sighed. “I am truly sorry about this. Imperio.”
you as my guide than find my own way there. I might have to break a few things
to enter, and would not know where to start looking for what I seek.’ He
didn’t move his wand. He had hoped that Bedard would be less hostile. But the
man’s reaction to the mere mention of the library had been enough to convince
Albus that some rather disreputable measures would have to be taken. He
sighed. “I am truly sorry about this. Imperio.”
---
**Dry Harbour Mountains, Jamaica, January 25th, 1997**
The Library of Souls, hidden in the mountains of Jamaica since the time of the
Maroon Rebellion, was, as with so many things in the Magical World, a bit of a
misnomer, Albus knew. While it did contain the knowledge of many dead
houngans, their souls were not actually bound to it. No, the library was built
with enchantments not unlike those used to create magical portraits, although
these were significantly more thorough, Albus had to admit. And using the
actual skulls of the dead houngans, instead of canvas and paint.
Maroon Rebellion, was, as with so many things in the Magical World, a bit of a
misnomer, Albus knew. While it did contain the knowledge of many dead
houngans, their souls were not actually bound to it. No, the library was built
with enchantments not unlike those used to create magical portraits, although
these were significantly more thorough, Albus had to admit. And using the
actual skulls of the dead houngans, instead of canvas and paint.
As he followed Bedard on the small path winding through a dense forest, he
kept an eye out for the defences he knew were there. The enchanted plants and
animals were not supposed to attack Bedard or anyone in his company, but that
didn’t mean too much given the often bloody nature of Magical Jamaica’s
politics. Thanks to the expertise of Rubeus and Pomona, though, he was
well-warded against both dangers.
kept an eye out for the defences he knew were there. The enchanted plants and
animals were not supposed to attack Bedard or anyone in his company, but that
didn’t mean too much given the often bloody nature of Magical Jamaica’s
politics. Thanks to the expertise of Rubeus and Pomona, though, he was
well-warded against both dangers.
As was to be expected for a location containing so much secret knowledge,
there were more defences than just guards. They had passed through several
wards already — which wouldn’t stop Bedard or a guest of his. Overall, Albus
expected the library to be at least as well protected against intruders as the
vaults of Gringotts. Which meant that a wizard of his skill and experience
could break in. Especially with the — albeit unwilling — help of one of the
houngan leaders of the island. Every system had a weakness, and the library’s
main weakness was that the ruling houngans did not trust each other enough to
require more than one of them to grant access to their apprentices. That
didn’t mean that the library’s defences were easy to defeat, of course. The
houngans had improved on them for more than two centuries, after all — ever
since Magical Jamaica had won its independence from Wizarding Britain in 1752.
there were more defences than just guards. They had passed through several
wards already — which wouldn’t stop Bedard or a guest of his. Overall, Albus
expected the library to be at least as well protected against intruders as the
vaults of Gringotts. Which meant that a wizard of his skill and experience
could break in. Especially with the — albeit unwilling — help of one of the
houngan leaders of the island. Every system had a weakness, and the library’s
main weakness was that the ruling houngans did not trust each other enough to
require more than one of them to grant access to their apprentices. That
didn’t mean that the library’s defences were easy to defeat, of course. The
houngans had improved on them for more than two centuries, after all — ever
since Magical Jamaica had won its independence from Wizarding Britain in 1752.
Aided by his enchanted spectacles, he spotted the Thief’s Downfall, concealed
as a natural waterfall, ahead of them. A flick of his wrist, and a spell
covered Bedard, letting the enchanted fluid wash over him without affecting
the spells controlling the man — Albus had had ample time to study this
particular enchantment, and ways to deal with it.
as a natural waterfall, ahead of them. A flick of his wrist, and a spell
covered Bedard, letting the enchanted fluid wash over him without affecting
the spells controlling the man — Albus had had ample time to study this
particular enchantment, and ways to deal with it.
They entered a cave behind an actual waterfall — though Albus kept his
counter-measures up, just to be safe — and reached a massive door carved from
the same stone as the cave itself. Bedard slit his palm and smeared blood on
the stone surface in a complicated pattern, then took a step back as the door
started to retreat, almost flowing into the walls, revealing the antechamber
of the Library of Souls. Albus frowned when he saw the silent, undead
guardians arrayed there. He had known to expect such from his glimpses into
the minds of Francis and his colleagues decades ago, but to see them with his
own eyes…
counter-measures up, just to be safe — and reached a massive door carved from
the same stone as the cave itself. Bedard slit his palm and smeared blood on
the stone surface in a complicated pattern, then took a step back as the door
started to retreat, almost flowing into the walls, revealing the antechamber
of the Library of Souls. Albus frowned when he saw the silent, undead
guardians arrayed there. He had known to expect such from his glimpses into
the minds of Francis and his colleagues decades ago, but to see them with his
own eyes…
But those abominations were not a threat to him. The spells layered on the
entrance to the library proper were. Not even Bedard could get him through all
of them. But Albus had come well-prepared for traps and curses. His wand made
short work of the more obvious spells, and the more subtle ones were no match
for his experience — he had broken into a few sanctums of houngans in his day,
after all. And dealt with many more cursed tombs. And even if he should make a
mistake, thanks to his skill as an alchemist and his friendship with a
phoenix, he had the means to save himself which no others could count upon.
Himself only, though — as the battle at Hogsmeade had shown, trying to protect
another could be fatal, which was why Albus had traveled alone to Jamaica.
entrance to the library proper were. Not even Bedard could get him through all
of them. But Albus had come well-prepared for traps and curses. His wand made
short work of the more obvious spells, and the more subtle ones were no match
for his experience — he had broken into a few sanctums of houngans in his day,
after all. And dealt with many more cursed tombs. And even if he should make a
mistake, thanks to his skill as an alchemist and his friendship with a
phoenix, he had the means to save himself which no others could count upon.
Himself only, though — as the battle at Hogsmeade had shown, trying to protect
another could be fatal, which was why Albus had traveled alone to Jamaica.
Soon, the doors opened, and the Library of Souls was revealed. It was far
smaller than someone not familiar with Jamaica would expect. Less than a
hundred skulls, each on a pedestal displaying the houngan’s name and deeds,
gathered in a natural cavern, expanded with magic. Far more modest than
anything similar in Britain, and yet containing so much knowledge… Albus was
both tempted to peruse it, and to destroy it. But he had not come here for
either.
smaller than someone not familiar with Jamaica would expect. Less than a
hundred skulls, each on a pedestal displaying the houngan’s name and deeds,
gathered in a natural cavern, expanded with magic. Far more modest than
anything similar in Britain, and yet containing so much knowledge… Albus was
both tempted to peruse it, and to destroy it. But he had not come here for
either.
“Please fetch me the skull of Lawrence Gayle,” he said. That houngan was
almost unknown outside Jamaica, but the man had done more research into both
Necromancy and Mind Magic than any other on the island. If he hadn’t been
assassinated by a rival before he could turn his research into actual rituals
and spells, he might have become more famous — or infamous. As it was, his
contemporaries and successors had taken his death as proof that his work had
little value. An opinion the Headmaster didn’t share.
almost unknown outside Jamaica, but the man had done more research into both
Necromancy and Mind Magic than any other on the island. If he hadn’t been
assassinated by a rival before he could turn his research into actual rituals
and spells, he might have become more famous — or infamous. As it was, his
contemporaries and successors had taken his death as proof that his work had
little value. An opinion the Headmaster didn’t share.
Compelled by Albus’s magic, Bedard stepped forward. The oldest skulls were
furthest back, but Gayle had lived in the 19th century, so his skull was far
closer to the entrance, just a few yards away.
furthest back, but Gayle had lived in the 19th century, so his skull was far
closer to the entrance, just a few yards away.
Bedard mumbled the appropriate prayer and picked the skull up. He had just
started to turn towards Albus when the skull’s eyes lit up and fire shot out
of its mouth, engulfing the man.
started to turn towards Albus when the skull’s eyes lit up and fire shot out
of its mouth, engulfing the man.
Bedard started to scream, his whole body on fire. Fiendfyre, Albus realised,
as it formed a snake and dived at him. No, not at him — at the entrance! Albus
hastily conjured a wall between himself and the flames, and retreated to the
side, away from both the still burning and screaming Bedard and the flames
sealing the entrance. The skull’s mouth was now spewing billowing clouds of
green mist that ate through both arms of Bedard, leaving the skull floating in
the air, while the eyes released curses in all directions.
as it formed a snake and dived at him. No, not at him — at the entrance! Albus
hastily conjured a wall between himself and the flames, and retreated to the
side, away from both the still burning and screaming Bedard and the flames
sealing the entrance. The skull’s mouth was now spewing billowing clouds of
green mist that ate through both arms of Bedard, leaving the skull floating in
the air, while the eyes released curses in all directions.
“Fawkes!” Albus cried out, flicking his wand to banish the approaching acid
back with a gust of wind. Then he saw that the curses were not flying off in
all directions, but curving back — to strike at him!
back with a gust of wind. Then he saw that the curses were not flying off in
all directions, but curving back — to strike at him!
He conjured slabs of metal and stone to block them, but the skull was still
sending out more, and the cursed fire was spreading. Fawkes appeared —
straight in the path of one of the curses, and Albus acted without thinking,
sending one slab up to block the curse, leaving himself open. If Fawkes was
quick enough…
sending out more, and the cursed fire was spreading. Fawkes appeared —
straight in the path of one of the curses, and Albus acted without thinking,
sending one slab up to block the curse, leaving himself open. If Fawkes was
quick enough…
His companion wasn’t. Albus felt the curse strike his side an instant before
they vanished in a flash of fire.
they vanished in a flash of fire.
When they reappeared, he fell down on the floor of his office, unable to
breathe. Unable to say anything. He rolled on his back, flicking his wand,
casting silently, trying to break the curse eating into his lungs. He failed.
Fawkes was crying, his tears falling on Albus’s chest, but they didn’t help —
this dark curse had to be beyond even their power to cure. It had been a trap,
he realised. For anyone researching that particular curse. He swished his
wand, summoning a vial from his pocket. A last gift from his mentor. With
fumbling fingers, he opened it, swallowing the liquid even while he felt as if
his heart was bursting.
breathe. Unable to say anything. He rolled on his back, flicking his wand,
casting silently, trying to break the curse eating into his lungs. He failed.
Fawkes was crying, his tears falling on Albus’s chest, but they didn’t help —
this dark curse had to be beyond even their power to cure. It had been a trap,
he realised. For anyone researching that particular curse. He swished his
wand, summoning a vial from his pocket. A last gift from his mentor. With
fumbling fingers, he opened it, swallowing the liquid even while he felt as if
his heart was bursting.
Relief filled him as the pain receded.
Then he realised that he still couldn’t breathe. That he was still
asphyxiating. But he had gained the time to cast a complex spell that drew
oxygen directly into his blood. His vision, which had been fading, returned to
normal. He still couldn’t breathe or speak, but he was able to sit up. The
pain was growing stronger again. He vanished the robe covering his chest, and
shuddered.
asphyxiating. But he had gained the time to cast a complex spell that drew
oxygen directly into his blood. His vision, which had been fading, returned to
normal. He still couldn’t breathe or speak, but he was able to sit up. The
pain was growing stronger again. He vanished the robe covering his chest, and
shuddered.
His chest was rotting. He could see the ribs poking through the parting skin,
could see the flesh shrivel up, blood and other fluids forming a pool under
him. Fawkes was still crying, frantically flapping around.
could see the flesh shrivel up, blood and other fluids forming a pool under
him. Fawkes was still crying, frantically flapping around.
Shaking his head, he smiled at his oldest friend. He wanted to tell the
phoenix that it was alright, that he was just going on the next Great
Adventure, but without lungs all he could do was hope that his companion would
understand.
phoenix that it was alright, that he was just going on the next Great
Adventure, but without lungs all he could do was hope that his companion would
understand.
Then the rot reached his spine, and he started to fall back.
The last thing he saw, before the world turned dark, was Fawkes, crying above
him. And the last thing he heard before death claimed him was the mourning
song of his friend.
him. And the last thing he heard before death claimed him was the mourning
song of his friend.
Chapter 37: Legacies
====================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox, fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved
the story a lot.
the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 37: Legacies**
*’The death of Albus Dumbledore would have shaken Wizarding Britain to the
core under any circumstances. But following so closely after the Battle of the
Ministry, and the Night of the Dead, the effect was devastating. The
Ministry’s morale, flagging after the crippling losses it had taken in the
recent battles, plummeted. Albus Dumbledore had not only been Wizarding
Britain’s protector, seen by most as the only wizard able to stop the Dark
Lord, but he had also been its most important leader. Even more important,
though, he had been the Headmaster of Hogwarts for decades. The majority of
wizards and witches had attended Hogwarts during his tenure there as a
professor and later Headmaster, and had spent their formative years under his
authority. They had not just lost a leader and protector, they had lost a
member of their family.*
core under any circumstances. But following so closely after the Battle of the
Ministry, and the Night of the Dead, the effect was devastating. The
Ministry’s morale, flagging after the crippling losses it had taken in the
recent battles, plummeted. Albus Dumbledore had not only been Wizarding
Britain’s protector, seen by most as the only wizard able to stop the Dark
Lord, but he had also been its most important leader. Even more important,
though, he had been the Headmaster of Hogwarts for decades. The majority of
wizards and witches had attended Hogwarts during his tenure there as a
professor and later Headmaster, and had spent their formative years under his
authority. They had not just lost a leader and protector, they had lost a
member of their family.*
*And yet, despite the man’s importance, to this day the question of who killed
Albus Dumbledore has not been answered in a satisfactory manner. Both the Dark
Lord as well as various houngans of Jamaica have claimed responsibility for
his death, with convincing although mutually exclusive arguments and
evidence.’*
Albus Dumbledore has not been answered in a satisfactory manner. Both the Dark
Lord as well as various houngans of Jamaica have claimed responsibility for
his death, with convincing although mutually exclusive arguments and
evidence.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**Hogwarts, January 26th, 1997**
The Headmaster was dead. Harry Potter still had trouble believing it, even
after he had seen the body in the infirmary. Dumbledore had been a fixture in
his life, not just at Hogwarts. Harry had known that the old wizard was not
immortal, but even after the fight in Hogsmeade, part of him had felt so. And
now Dumbledore was gone, and Harry felt as if part of Hogwarts, part of
himself, had died with the Headmaster.
after he had seen the body in the infirmary. Dumbledore had been a fixture in
his life, not just at Hogwarts. Harry had known that the old wizard was not
immortal, but even after the fight in Hogsmeade, part of him had felt so. And
now Dumbledore was gone, and Harry felt as if part of Hogwarts, part of
himself, had died with the Headmaster.
He was walking past the hallway leading to the Great Hall. A few crouching
figures drew his attention, and his wand rose, until he realised that it was
just a Hufflepuff prefect trying to console three first-years, all four of
them crying. He still kept them in his sights until he had turned the corner.
figures drew his attention, and his wand rose, until he realised that it was
just a Hufflepuff prefect trying to console three first-years, all four of
them crying. He still kept them in his sights until he had turned the corner.
Most students were in their dorms or on the way back there after the meal, but
he couldn’t stand being cooped up right now. Couldn’t stand the gazes, the
whispers he expected as the Boy-Who-Lived. He longed to go flying, take to the
skies and let the cold air numb him, but that would bring back memories of
Hogsmeade. And he’d rather not think of that fight, not right now.
he couldn’t stand being cooped up right now. Couldn’t stand the gazes, the
whispers he expected as the Boy-Who-Lived. He longed to go flying, take to the
skies and let the cold air numb him, but that would bring back memories of
Hogsmeade. And he’d rather not think of that fight, not right now.
He didn’t want to think at all. He’d rather do something, anything to not feel
so helpless. Which was why he was headed to the training room Moody used for
his lessons. The old Auror wasn’t around, and Ron was busy with Hermione,
probably, but Harry would be able to practise some spells, at least.
so helpless. Which was why he was headed to the training room Moody used for
his lessons. The old Auror wasn’t around, and Ron was busy with Hermione,
probably, but Harry would be able to practise some spells, at least.
---
Harry had been training in silent casting more or less effectively for five
minutes when the door to the training room was opened. He turned slightly
until he was presenting his right side to the door, wand pointed not quite at
the entrance.
minutes when the door to the training room was opened. He turned slightly
until he was presenting his right side to the door, wand pointed not quite at
the entrance.
“There you are!”
Seeing Sirius, Harry relaxed. It felt good to see his godfather. Comforting.
Doubt quickly filled him, though. “Shouldn’t you be in the Ministry?” With
Dumbledore dead, the Ministry would be panicking, from what Harry had
gathered. His godfather was needed there, to keep it from rolling over for
Voldemort.
Doubt quickly filled him, though. “Shouldn’t you be in the Ministry?” With
Dumbledore dead, the Ministry would be panicking, from what Harry had
gathered. His godfather was needed there, to keep it from rolling over for
Voldemort.
Sirius shrugged. “I’ll head there in a bit. Once I’m certain that you’re
holding up.” He frowned. “You practically ran away from there.” The infirmary,
where they had seen Dumbledore’s body.
holding up.” He frowned. “You practically ran away from there.” The infirmary,
where they had seen Dumbledore’s body.
Harry suddenly felt guilty. He was keeping Sirius from more important matters.
His godfather sighed. “Don’t be like that, Harry.” The older wizard walked up
to him and put a hand on his shoulder. “You are the most important person, for
me.”
to him and put a hand on his shoulder. “You are the most important person, for
me.”
A weird mix of warmth and guilt filled Harry. Then he frowned. With Dumbledore
dead, he was the most important person in the war against Voldemort. He was
the one prophesied to defeat the Dark Lord — for good this time. “Sorry,” he
mumbled.
dead, he was the most important person in the war against Voldemort. He was
the one prophesied to defeat the Dark Lord — for good this time. “Sorry,” he
mumbled.
“For what?” Sirius sounded honestly puzzled.
“For worrying you.” For letting down everyone who was depending on him to be
strong.
strong.
“I’d worry about you no matter what you did, Harry. That’s what a godfather
does.” There was a slight hitch in Sirius’s voice before ‘godfather’.
does.” There was a slight hitch in Sirius’s voice before ‘godfather’.
“Well, I’m training.” Harry pointed at the conjured block of stone. It was
sporting several small holes.
sporting several small holes.
“Piercing Curses?” Sirius peered at them.
“Silent casting, mostly,” Harry clarified. His normal Piercing Curses did
better than that.
better than that.
“Ah.” Sirius nodded. “Show me?”
Harry took a step away, then jabbed his wand at the stone. Another hole
appeared, in a small cloud of dust. He repeated the spell. Again and again.
appeared, in a small cloud of dust. He repeated the spell. Again and again.
“You’ve got it figured out I think,” Sirius said. “Just need more practice.”
“Not just with silent casting,” Harry said. He shrugged. He needed more
training in Legilimency, more than anything else. But with the Headmaster
gone… “I didn’t think he’d ever die. Not really.”
training in Legilimency, more than anything else. But with the Headmaster
gone… “I didn’t think he’d ever die. Not really.”
“No one lives forever.” Sirius frowned. “I didn’t think he’d die to a curse,
though.”
though.”
“Did he duel Voldemort?” Dumbledore had known he couldn’t kill Voldemort, but
had he gone and faced the Dark Lord in an attempt to gain more time for
Harry’s training?
had he gone and faced the Dark Lord in an attempt to gain more time for
Harry’s training?
“No one knows so far. As far as we know, he was visiting the Caribbean, to
search for a cure for the curse, but we don’t know if he actually went there,
or was ambushed on the way, or if it was all a ruse.” Harry’s godfather
sighed. “McGonagall found him in his office, dead. That’s all we really know,
for now.”
search for a cure for the curse, but we don’t know if he actually went there,
or was ambushed on the way, or if it was all a ruse.” Harry’s godfather
sighed. “McGonagall found him in his office, dead. That’s all we really know,
for now.”
Harry had known that already. “Is Fawkes still singing?” He thought he could
hear the song, a sad one, faintly, as if in the back of his mind, but that
could just be his imagination — his Legilimency training had taught him just
how easily such a thing could happen.
hear the song, a sad one, faintly, as if in the back of his mind, but that
could just be his imagination — his Legilimency training had taught him just
how easily such a thing could happen.
“Yes.” Sirius conjured a chair for himself and sat down. He looked tired,
Harry thought. ‘He hasn’t stopped since… well, we think it started at the time
of death.’ He snorted. “Moody’s leading the investigation, you know. Or at
least claiming to. We didn’t want other Aurors poking around, but that won’t
stop them.”
Harry thought. ‘He hasn’t stopped since… well, we think it started at the time
of death.’ He snorted. “Moody’s leading the investigation, you know. Or at
least claiming to. We didn’t want other Aurors poking around, but that won’t
stop them.”
Harry cursed. “Do they even have enough Aurors left to guard the school and
everything else?”
everything else?”
“If they scratch together everything, probably. Many of them won’t be any
better than seventh-years, but… they can’t leave Hogwarts unguarded. No matter
how effective they will be.” Sirius scoffed. “Politics.”
better than seventh-years, but… they can’t leave Hogwarts unguarded. No matter
how effective they will be.” Sirius scoffed. “Politics.”
“Hermione will leave.” Harry’s friend wouldn’t stay. Not with the Ministry
moving in and Dumbledore dead.
moving in and Dumbledore dead.
“Yes.” Sirius shook his head, rubbing his forehead. “Can’t trust the Ministry,
even though they need her and her friends now more than ever.”
even though they need her and her friends now more than ever.”
Harry’s eyes widened. “Do you think they’d attack her to make a deal with
Voldemort?”
Voldemort?”
“Bones wouldn’t make a deal with him. She’ll fight him to the last breath. But
she won’t make a deal with the Resistance either. Not the kind of deal they
need. We can but hope that she’ll keep the deal Fudge made.” Sirius snorted.
“Not that it matters much until we beat the Dark Lord.”
she won’t make a deal with the Resistance either. Not the kind of deal they
need. We can but hope that she’ll keep the deal Fudge made.” Sirius snorted.
“Not that it matters much until we beat the Dark Lord.”
Which, Harry knew, all hinged on him. And his training. “I’ll need a new
teacher.”
teacher.”
His godfather slowly nodded. “There’s something else.”
---
The Headmaster had looked quite peaceful, laid out in the small room in the
infirmary of Hogwarts, in Hermione Granger’s opinion. The robes had hidden the
sickening sight of the remains of his chest, eaten away by some rotting curse
Madam Pomfrey hadn’t identified so far. What a horrible end for a great man!
infirmary of Hogwarts, in Hermione Granger’s opinion. The robes had hidden the
sickening sight of the remains of his chest, eaten away by some rotting curse
Madam Pomfrey hadn’t identified so far. What a horrible end for a great man!
She hadn’t stayed long in there. Just enough to see for herself that he was
really dead. Barely enough to pay her respects. With Dumbledore dead, things
in Britain had changed, and not for the better.
really dead. Barely enough to pay her respects. With Dumbledore dead, things
in Britain had changed, and not for the better.
Schooling her features, she addressed the rest of the Resistance gathered in
Dennis’s room, where they had pushed the bed of the comatose boy into the
corner: “The Headmaster is dead.”
Dennis’s room, where they had pushed the bed of the comatose boy into the
corner: “The Headmaster is dead.”
They already knew that, but Sally-Anne, pressed into Justin’s side in a
conjured armchair, gasped anyway, as if there had been any hope that this was
just a mistake. Most nodded grimly — they knew what this meant for the group.
conjured armchair, gasped anyway, as if there had been any hope that this was
just a mistake. Most nodded grimly — they knew what this meant for the group.
“Aurors and Hit-Wizards will be arriving soon, to ‘guard’ the school,”
Hermione went on. “We’re not needed here any more, and we’ll be returning to a
safe house.” Better safe than sorry.
Hermione went on. “We’re not needed here any more, and we’ll be returning to a
safe house.” Better safe than sorry.
“You don’t trust the Ministry?” Seamus said as much as he asked.
“I trust Bones not to turn on us in the middle of the war,” she said. The
witch was too competent for that. ‘But afterwards?’ She shook her head. “I’d
rather not reveal anything about us to them if we can help it. Just in case.”
witch was too competent for that. ‘But afterwards?’ She shook her head. “I’d
rather not reveal anything about us to them if we can help it. Just in case.”
“Damn bitch will stab us in the back before the Dark Lord’s body hits the
ground!” Seamus growled.
ground!” Seamus growled.
“I don’t think that’s likely,” Hermione said, “but from what I heard, she’s
almost fanatical about upholding law and order.”
almost fanatical about upholding law and order.”
Louise, the former Hit-Wizard, nodded. “Bones is a hard ass about justice.
Incorruptible. Stubborn. Unyielding.” She was sitting on the conjured bed for
Jeremy, holding his hand.
Incorruptible. Stubborn. Unyielding.” She was sitting on the conjured bed for
Jeremy, holding his hand.
“Didn’t see much of that love of justice when the Ministry was hunting
muggleborns.” Tania sneered, leaning back in her conjured seat.
muggleborns.” Tania sneered, leaning back in her conjured seat.
“She doesn’t have the same view of justice as we do,” Hermione said. “If the
Wizengamot passes a law, she’ll enforce it. No matter what.”
Wizengamot passes a law, she’ll enforce it. No matter what.”
“Like a Nazi,” John added.
Hermione wasn’t quite certain she’d go that far, but she couldn’t really
disagree with the assessment. That was how a number of Nazis had tried to
defend themselves when they had been put on trial: That what they had done had
been legal in the Third Reich. “In any case, we need to move. We can care for
Jeremy at our safe house. Dennis, though… I’ll ask a few friends to care for
him.” They couldn’t spare the manpower, nor could they leave him to fall into
the hands of the Ministry.
disagree with the assessment. That was how a number of Nazis had tried to
defend themselves when they had been put on trial: That what they had done had
been legal in the Third Reich. “In any case, we need to move. We can care for
Jeremy at our safe house. Dennis, though… I’ll ask a few friends to care for
him.” They couldn’t spare the manpower, nor could they leave him to fall into
the hands of the Ministry.
“Who are these friends?” Seamus asked, staring at her.
“I’ll tell you if they can take him in,” Hermione said. She looked at him
until he frowned and let his gaze drop. ‘Anything else?’ she addressed the
room again. When no one spoke up for a few seconds, she nodded. “Alright,
let’s move!”
until he frowned and let his gaze drop. ‘Anything else?’ she addressed the
room again. When no one spoke up for a few seconds, she nodded. “Alright,
let’s move!”
---
Ron Weasley felt helpless and useless. The Headmaster was dead, Hermione was
with the Resistance, already preparing for the new situation, and Harry was
off with Sirius, probably dealing with the Wizengamot — the Boy-Who-Lived
would be the ray of hope Britain needed right now. His dad and Percy were at
the Ministry, working to keep it from collapsing, no doubt. Bill was with the
French, the twins in their shop… everyone was doing something useful. But for
Ron, who was stuck at Hogwarts. And Ginny, though his sister was probably
watching the map in their dorms.
with the Resistance, already preparing for the new situation, and Harry was
off with Sirius, probably dealing with the Wizengamot — the Boy-Who-Lived
would be the ray of hope Britain needed right now. His dad and Percy were at
the Ministry, working to keep it from collapsing, no doubt. Bill was with the
French, the twins in their shop… everyone was doing something useful. But for
Ron, who was stuck at Hogwarts. And Ginny, though his sister was probably
watching the map in their dorms.
He leaned against the wall, a hallway away from the infirmary. Dumbledore’s
death meant the loss of the one wizard able to counter Voldemort. Maybe they
should have tried to keep it a secret, even if only for a few days. He shook
his head. No, the news would have spread anyway, and if the Dark Lord had been
able to prepare for the shock of the revelation, or reveal it at a time of his
choosing…
death meant the loss of the one wizard able to counter Voldemort. Maybe they
should have tried to keep it a secret, even if only for a few days. He shook
his head. No, the news would have spread anyway, and if the Dark Lord had been
able to prepare for the shock of the revelation, or reveal it at a time of his
choosing…
Dumbledore’s death wasn’t something Ron liked to think about. The consequences
were too grim. Too many would now consider the war lost, even among the Order.
Not his family, of course. They were Gryffindors to the core, and they knew
the Headmaster would have made plans even for his death. They’d fight on. In
the Ministry, and everywhere else. Sirius wouldn’t give up either, knowing
that Voldemort wouldn’t rest until Harry was dead. Everyone knew that the
French wouldn’t stop fighting until either they or their enemy were dead. Or
both, as had happened a few times.
were too grim. Too many would now consider the war lost, even among the Order.
Not his family, of course. They were Gryffindors to the core, and they knew
the Headmaster would have made plans even for his death. They’d fight on. In
the Ministry, and everywhere else. Sirius wouldn’t give up either, knowing
that Voldemort wouldn’t rest until Harry was dead. Everyone knew that the
French wouldn’t stop fighting until either they or their enemy were dead. Or
both, as had happened a few times.
The Ministry would keep fighting too, as long as Bones was at the helm. That
witch would not give up, and her Aurors and Hit-Wizards, those who were left
anyway, would want revenge. And the Wizengamot members who knew that they
would be killed if the Dark Lord won.
witch would not give up, and her Aurors and Hit-Wizards, those who were left
anyway, would want revenge. And the Wizengamot members who knew that they
would be killed if the Dark Lord won.
But the public? They’d be shaking in their boots, and either fleeing or
begging for mercy soon enough. Ron knew that. Just as he knew that the odds of
his family surviving were low. Not that that would stop them. Even Mum would
know that. He closed his eyes. This would be hardest for her. But they had no
choice, not really. As long as there was a chance to win, they’d keep
fighting. And as long as Harry was alive, there was a chance to win.
begging for mercy soon enough. Ron knew that. Just as he knew that the odds of
his family surviving were low. Not that that would stop them. Even Mum would
know that. He closed his eyes. This would be hardest for her. But they had no
choice, not really. As long as there was a chance to win, they’d keep
fighting. And as long as Harry was alive, there was a chance to win.
He muttered a few curses under his breath and pushed off the wall. He couldn’t
just do nothing. Maybe Hermione needed help. Or Harry. Or Luna. He’d do
anything to stop feeling so helpless.
just do nothing. Maybe Hermione needed help. Or Harry. Or Luna. He’d do
anything to stop feeling so helpless.
---
Ron ran into the Resistance at the infirmary. Or rather, he ran into Seamus,
standing at the door there. For a moment, they stared at each other, Ron’s
wand pointed at the other wizard, and Seamus’s muggle gun pointed at his
chest. Then Ron lowered his wand, chuckling, although he had to force himself
to do so. “Sorry, Moody’s training left me rather jumpy.”
standing at the door there. For a moment, they stared at each other, Ron’s
wand pointed at the other wizard, and Seamus’s muggle gun pointed at his
chest. Then Ron lowered his wand, chuckling, although he had to force himself
to do so. “Sorry, Moody’s training left me rather jumpy.”
After a second, Seamus lowered his gun, then snorted. “Can’t trust anyone.”
“Constant vigilance.” Ron shrugged. “Is Hermione inside?”
Once more Seamus hesitated for a moment, then nodded, turned his head and
yelled: “Hermione! Your boyfriend’s looking for you!”
yelled: “Hermione! Your boyfriend’s looking for you!”
Ron chuckled again, without forcing himself to this time. That had sounded
just like… as if Seamus hadn’t left. He ignored the other wizard’s slightly
confused glance. Hermione arrived. She was wearing her uniform, and a rifle
was dangling from a sling at her side.
just like… as if Seamus hadn’t left. He ignored the other wizard’s slightly
confused glance. Hermione arrived. She was wearing her uniform, and a rifle
was dangling from a sling at her side.
“Ron.” She bit her lower lip in that manner he found so adorable, and once
more Ron was reminded of the time before this mess started.
more Ron was reminded of the time before this mess started.
He spread his arms and took a step forward, then another, until he could pull
her into a hug, wrapping his arms around her, above the gun. He ignored the
snickering in the background. His girlfriend was leaving, and he didn’t know
when he would see her again. Or — though he buried that thought quickly — if
he would see her again. Then he felt her grow tense in his embrace, and pull
back.
her into a hug, wrapping his arms around her, above the gun. He ignored the
snickering in the background. His girlfriend was leaving, and he didn’t know
when he would see her again. Or — though he buried that thought quickly — if
he would see her again. Then he felt her grow tense in his embrace, and pull
back.
“The mirror,” she said, casting a privacy spell while she pulled it out.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 26th, 1997**
When her door was opened, Amelia Bones had her wand ready. The Ministry’s
defences had been mostly repaired, some had even been improved, but she hadn’t
forgotten about Fudge’s death, and she was not about to let herself grow
complacent.
defences had been mostly repaired, some had even been improved, but she hadn’t
forgotten about Fudge’s death, and she was not about to let herself grow
complacent.
“Bones.” Moody nodded at her, closed her door behind him, then started casting
privacy spells.
privacy spells.
She waited, not quite patiently, but trying to hurry the paranoid Auror would
be useless, and given recent events, he was probably right in taking
additional measures. If she fully trusted her security, she would have used
the time to read another page of the latest report on her desk.
be useless, and given recent events, he was probably right in taking
additional measures. If she fully trusted her security, she would have used
the time to read another page of the latest report on her desk.
Finally, Moody finished, and turned to her. “Albus is dead.”
Amelia felt as if she had been hexed in the gut. She almost blurted out a
‘What?’ as if she was a rookie. “How did he die?” she asked instead.
Dumbledore dead…
‘What?’ as if she was a rookie. “How did he die?” she asked instead.
Dumbledore dead…
“McGonagall found him on the floor of his office, chest rotted away by a dark
curse, with his phoenix crying over the body. Died during the night, as far as
I can tell.” Moody took a seat, his artificial eye spinning madly.
curse, with his phoenix crying over the body. Died during the night, as far as
I can tell.” Moody took a seat, his artificial eye spinning madly.
Amelia felt a cold shiver run down her spine. Someone had managed to kill the
greatest wizard of Britain. There was just one man she knew was able to do
such a deed. “Was he killed in the middle of his office?” No one would be safe
in that case. Hogwarts had the best wards and defences in Britain.
greatest wizard of Britain. There was just one man she knew was able to do
such a deed. “Was he killed in the middle of his office?” No one would be safe
in that case. Hogwarts had the best wards and defences in Britain.
“I saw no sign of any fight, or any trap being triggered there,” Moody said.
“Best guess? He managed to escape whatever or whoever did this to him, but
died in his office before he could get help.”
“Best guess? He managed to escape whatever or whoever did this to him, but
died in his office before he could get help.”
That made sense. Not that it improved the Ministry’s situation much. With
Dumbledore gone the Dark Lord would be able to attack almost anything at will,
especially if he himself had killed the wizard. Only wards would be able to
stop him — if he tried to take them down himself, he’d be vulnerable. But if
he hired Curse-Breakers… She shook her head. Normally, she’d cancel all leave,
but that had already been done. Everyone able was already on duty, usually on
double-shifts. “What is Hogwarts’ status?” Moody would know that; the old
Auror was one of Dumbledore’s men.
Dumbledore gone the Dark Lord would be able to attack almost anything at will,
especially if he himself had killed the wizard. Only wards would be able to
stop him — if he tried to take them down himself, he’d be vulnerable. But if
he hired Curse-Breakers… She shook her head. Normally, she’d cancel all leave,
but that had already been done. Everyone able was already on duty, usually on
double-shifts. “What is Hogwarts’ status?” Moody would know that; the old
Auror was one of Dumbledore’s men.
“The wards are as strong as ever, but with Albus and Snape gone, the only ones
left who would be of any use in a battle are McGonagall and Flitwick.” Moody
scoffed. “The rest are barely up to scratch. Better than your average Auror,
though. Heh, some of the kids there would probably do better than half your
people.”
left who would be of any use in a battle are McGonagall and Flitwick.” Moody
scoffed. “The rest are barely up to scratch. Better than your average Auror,
though. Heh, some of the kids there would probably do better than half your
people.”
Amelia wanted to tell the old Auror off, but he was probably correct — they
were scraping the bottom of the cauldron for recruits. Had been for some time.
“I’ll send a squad then.” They could rotate. Enough to show the flag, and to
keep an eye on the school.
were scraping the bottom of the cauldron for recruits. Had been for some time.
“I’ll send a squad then.” They could rotate. Enough to show the flag, and to
keep an eye on the school.
“Don’t send idiots. And don’t send bigots,” Moody said.
She knew what he really meant. “I’m not about to renege on the Minister’s
deal.” Even though it grated on her pride to admit it, working with those
murderers was the Ministry’s — and her — only hope now.
deal.” Even though it grated on her pride to admit it, working with those
murderers was the Ministry’s — and her — only hope now.
“Good. You’re finally learning. You’ll still be a terrible Minister.” Moody
cackled, then coughed and took a sip from his flask.
cackled, then coughed and took a sip from his flask.
She adjusted her monocle. It wasn’t quite as good as Moody’s eye, but it let
her see far more than even trained eyes like hers normally could.
her see far more than even trained eyes like hers normally could.
“I’m not about to keel over, Bones. I’ll not quit until the Dark Lord’s done
for.” Moody grinned, which twisted his scarred face into something fit to
curdle milk. ‘But I’m not getting any younger.’ He paused. “Who’s the acting
Minister now?”
for.” Moody grinned, which twisted his scarred face into something fit to
curdle milk. ‘But I’m not getting any younger.’ He paused. “Who’s the acting
Minister now?”
Amelia knew this by heart, of course. “Philius Runcorn.” The oldest member of
the Wizengamot. Who had been missing since the Battle of the Ministry.
the Wizengamot. Who had been missing since the Battle of the Ministry.
“Death Eater,” Moody said.
“I’ll call for an emergency session to elect a new Minister,” Amelia said.
“To elect yourself, you mean.” Moody cackled again.
“Is there anyone else who can do what needs to be done?” There wasn’t; she had
looked. Rufus might have been able to, but he was one of the cursed.
looked. Rufus might have been able to, but he was one of the cursed.
“Arthur Weasley might surprise you.”
Amelia shook her head. “He has no support among the moderates, and the
traditional Old Families hate him. And with Albus dead, even some of his own
faction might not vote for him.”
traditional Old Families hate him. And with Albus dead, even some of his own
faction might not vote for him.”
“You could convince them.” Moody took another sip from his flask.
“Weasley’s not the wizard we need. He’s too radical.” And he’d bend too many
rules and break too many laws. He’d focus on winning the war, and wouldn’t
care about the consequences of such a stance. What good was winning the war if
it meant turning the country into a dictatorship where the rule of law had
been sacrificed on the battlefield, and the strong ruled the weak in the name
of expediency?
rules and break too many laws. He’d focus on winning the war, and wouldn’t
care about the consequences of such a stance. What good was winning the war if
it meant turning the country into a dictatorship where the rule of law had
been sacrificed on the battlefield, and the strong ruled the weak in the name
of expediency?
“Might be that’s what needed.” Moody shrugged, as if he wasn’t concerned.
Amelia knew him better, though.
Amelia knew him better, though.
“Hardly. Allying with the muggleborns, and electing a wizard who’s not only
fascinated by all things muggle, but whose son is going out with the leader of
the Resistance? Too many will feel as if that would be handing the country
over to the muggleborns.” Amelia scoffed. Susan had told her about that
particular couple. Weasley would make for a good scare though — the moderates
would rally behind her, as would some of Dumbledore’s friends who had trusted
him to keep the muggleborns from getting out of control. Whether the old
wizard would have done that was another matter — he had sounded far too
radical for Amelia’s taste, in their last talks. As much as it shamed her to
admit it, if Dumbledore had died right after the Dark Lord, it would have been
better for Britain.
fascinated by all things muggle, but whose son is going out with the leader of
the Resistance? Too many will feel as if that would be handing the country
over to the muggleborns.” Amelia scoffed. Susan had told her about that
particular couple. Weasley would make for a good scare though — the moderates
would rally behind her, as would some of Dumbledore’s friends who had trusted
him to keep the muggleborns from getting out of control. Whether the old
wizard would have done that was another matter — he had sounded far too
radical for Amelia’s taste, in their last talks. As much as it shamed her to
admit it, if Dumbledore had died right after the Dark Lord, it would have been
better for Britain.
“His eldest is the fiancé of one of the Delacours.”
“The fiancé of a Veela. People will assume that she controls him.” And as
welcome as the Delacours’ help was, Amelia knew she wasn’t the only one who
was wary of France meddling in Britain’s politics. If the French would commit
to more than just tolerating a private initiative, things might be different,
but such a commitment was very unlikely.
welcome as the Delacours’ help was, Amelia knew she wasn’t the only one who
was wary of France meddling in Britain’s politics. If the French would commit
to more than just tolerating a private initiative, things might be different,
but such a commitment was very unlikely.
“Just remember, Bones: The muggleborns don’t trust you. Your Aurors spent too
much time hunting them. You’ll have to tread very carefully with them.” Moody
grinned again.
much time hunting them. You’ll have to tread very carefully with them.” Moody
grinned again.
“I’ve spoken with their leader. The Resistance know that we need to work
together to beat the Dark Lord.” Granger was young, but she wasn’t that
foolish. And she had not even a dozen wands left — with a bit of luck, even
more of them would die before the war was over.
together to beat the Dark Lord.” Granger was young, but she wasn’t that
foolish. And she had not even a dozen wands left — with a bit of luck, even
more of them would die before the war was over.
“I’m not talking about just the Resistance, Bones.”
Amelia narrowed her eyes at him. “The rest of them fled and hid.” Unorganised
rabble, on the level of the scum in Knockturn Alley — a persistent nuisance,
but no real threat.
rabble, on the level of the scum in Knockturn Alley — a persistent nuisance,
but no real threat.
“That was before they had an example to follow.” Moody stood up, coughing
again. “I’ll head back to Hogwarts, to continue the investigation. Have
whoever you send to Hogwarts report to me. I’ll keep them from getting
embarrassed by the students there.”
again. “I’ll head back to Hogwarts, to continue the investigation. Have
whoever you send to Hogwarts report to me. I’ll keep them from getting
embarrassed by the students there.”
She didn’t let herself to react to Moody’s last jibe and simply nodded while
the old Auror left. She had an election to organise, and quickly.
the old Auror left. She had an election to organise, and quickly.
---
**Outside Stamford, Lincolnshire, Britain, January 26th, 1997**
The Dark Lord Voldemort stared at the note that had just reached him. His
greatest enemy, dead? In the middle of the Headmaster’s office, even? Who but
Voldemort himself could have achieved such a thing?
greatest enemy, dead? In the middle of the Headmaster’s office, even? Who but
Voldemort himself could have achieved such a thing?
It could be a ruse, of course. A trap, meant to draw him out, overextend
himself, so the Headmaster could ambush him. For a wizard of Dumbledore’s
power and experience, faking his death would not be difficult. And yet… Would
his enemy actually go that far? Shake the faith of Britain’s sheep in himself?
Of course Dumbledore would do it — hadn’t he sacrificed two of his friends in
an attempted ambush already?
himself, so the Headmaster could ambush him. For a wizard of Dumbledore’s
power and experience, faking his death would not be difficult. And yet… Would
his enemy actually go that far? Shake the faith of Britain’s sheep in himself?
Of course Dumbledore would do it — hadn’t he sacrificed two of his friends in
an attempted ambush already?
The Dark Lord shook his head. No, he would have to stick to his plan, at least
for now. See how long Dumbledore was willing to let this go on. Prepare to
denounce the old man as a cruel manipulator, once he had revealed his
deception. And if this was true, if someone had actually managed to kill his
greatest foe, then the Dark Lord might even be able to exploit that. It would
have been a foreigner, and Voldemort would be able to offer Britain his
protection against this new threat.
for now. See how long Dumbledore was willing to let this go on. Prepare to
denounce the old man as a cruel manipulator, once he had revealed his
deception. And if this was true, if someone had actually managed to kill his
greatest foe, then the Dark Lord might even be able to exploit that. It would
have been a foreigner, and Voldemort would be able to offer Britain his
protection against this new threat.
But who could have done this? There was no wizard equal to Dumbledore, much
less himself, in Europe. That Voldemort knew for certain. And what other part
of the world would have a stake in British affairs? The Ottoman Empire might
carry a grudge — Dumbledore had been the driving force behind the coalition
that had forced them to end their slave raids against the Mediterranean
enclaves, but that had been decades ago, and they’d risk a new coalition
forming in response. Although… Dumbledore’s ‘visit’ to the Caribbean had been
over thirty years ago as well, and the houngans were even better at keeping
grudges. Voldemort had managed to exploit that when he had traveled through
the area himself, a few years later…
less himself, in Europe. That Voldemort knew for certain. And what other part
of the world would have a stake in British affairs? The Ottoman Empire might
carry a grudge — Dumbledore had been the driving force behind the coalition
that had forced them to end their slave raids against the Mediterranean
enclaves, but that had been decades ago, and they’d risk a new coalition
forming in response. Although… Dumbledore’s ‘visit’ to the Caribbean had been
over thirty years ago as well, and the houngans were even better at keeping
grudges. Voldemort had managed to exploit that when he had traveled through
the area himself, a few years later…
His gaze fell on the skull on his desk. The skull he had taken from the
Library of Souls, replaced with a trapped decoy. The skull anyone researching
his Withering Curse would try to use. He had tied the trap to the wards of the
place. Not something that was done often, since most intruders or attackers
would take down the wards of a location before entering. Of course, the owners
of the place would not have done that. But if instead of some houngan
Dumbledore had managed to enter with the wards still active… Voldemort’s
curses would have been empowered by protections which had been growing in
power for centuries…
Library of Souls, replaced with a trapped decoy. The skull anyone researching
his Withering Curse would try to use. He had tied the trap to the wards of the
place. Not something that was done often, since most intruders or attackers
would take down the wards of a location before entering. Of course, the owners
of the place would not have done that. But if instead of some houngan
Dumbledore had managed to enter with the wards still active… Voldemort’s
curses would have been empowered by protections which had been growing in
power for centuries…
He summoned some parchment. He had inquiries to make.
---
**Hogwarts, January 26th, 1997**
While his godfather talked into an enchanted mirror, Harry Potter looked
around the Headmaster’s office with some trepidation. Dumbledore had died
here, in this very room. He wondered if the faint rotten smell was just his
imagination, or a lingering reminder of the Headmaster’s death — a curse
powerful enough to kill Dumbledore, despite Fawkes’s help, might also
withstand a cleaning charm. It would fit the Dark Lord’s style to curse the
Headmaster’s office that way — he had cursed the DADA teacher’s position,
after all.
around the Headmaster’s office with some trepidation. Dumbledore had died
here, in this very room. He wondered if the faint rotten smell was just his
imagination, or a lingering reminder of the Headmaster’s death — a curse
powerful enough to kill Dumbledore, despite Fawkes’s help, might also
withstand a cleaning charm. It would fit the Dark Lord’s style to curse the
Headmaster’s office that way — he had cursed the DADA teacher’s position,
after all.
Harry was studying the various trinkets on the shelves when the door to the
office was opened and Hermione and Ron walked in.
office was opened and Hermione and Ron walked in.
“What’s the emergency?” Hermione asked as soon as Ron had closed the door. She
looked quite tense — understandably, in Harry’s opinion. ‘Sirius didn’t want
to tell us through the mirror.’ She looked around. “Where is he anyway?”
looked quite tense — understandably, in Harry’s opinion. ‘Sirius didn’t want
to tell us through the mirror.’ She looked around. “Where is he anyway?”
“He’s in the back,” Harry said, nodding gesturing towards the door behind the
Headmaster’s seat, “preparing the Pensieve.”
Headmaster’s seat, “preparing the Pensieve.”
He saw her eyes widen, and he nodded slowly. “Apparently, Dumbledore left us a
message.”
message.”
“Us three?” Ron asked.
“Yes, you three!”
Harry turned and saw that Sirius had entered the office. “Albus gave me a vial
with a memory, and was quite clear that you three — and only you three — were
to see it.”
with a memory, and was quite clear that you three — and only you three — were
to see it.”
“Blimey.” Ron sounded more surprised than Harry had expected — the two of them
had been training with the Headmaster, after all.
had been training with the Headmaster, after all.
“Come on, you three — everything’s ready.” Sirius waved them forward.
Harry exchanged a glance with his friends, and the three stepped into the
Headmaster’s quarters.
Headmaster’s quarters.
Sirius closed the door behind them, then cast a charm on it. “Moody should
keep eavesdroppers out, but we shouldn’t waste time.”
keep eavesdroppers out, but we shouldn’t waste time.”
“Aurors will be arriving soon, I assume,” Hermione said.
“Probably. Wizards and witches in red robes, at least.” Sirius scoffed.
“They’re as useless as the curse-fodder the Ministry was recruiting in the
last war.”
“They’re as useless as the curse-fodder the Ministry was recruiting in the
last war.”
“There are still veterans left among the Ministry’s forces,” Ron pointed out.
“They won’t send them here, though.” Sirius snorted. “The Wizengamot and the
Ministry want the best Aurors and Hit-Wizards right at their side — protecting
them.”
Ministry want the best Aurors and Hit-Wizards right at their side — protecting
them.”
Hermione muttered something Harry didn’t catch, but before he could ask her
what she had said, they reached an alcove in the Headmaster’s quarters, where
a stone basin stood. It looked like it was marble — and covered with runes.
Dumbledore’s Pensieve. Above it was a small cloud — mist or smoke.
what she had said, they reached an alcove in the Headmaster’s quarters, where
a stone basin stood. It looked like it was marble — and covered with runes.
Dumbledore’s Pensieve. Above it was a small cloud — mist or smoke.
“You know how to use it?” Sirius asked. Hermione was about to answer, Harry
saw her open her mouth, but his godfather went on anyway: “Just push your head
into the mist above the basin. Get comfortable first — you might not feel
anything while you’re watching the memory, but afterwards you’ll feel it if
you were cramped.”
saw her open her mouth, but his godfather went on anyway: “Just push your head
into the mist above the basin. Get comfortable first — you might not feel
anything while you’re watching the memory, but afterwards you’ll feel it if
you were cramped.”
Harry didn’t care about that — he wanted to know what message Dumbledore had
left them — and simply leaned forward until his head entered the mist.
left them — and simply leaned forward until his head entered the mist.
He found himself in a very familiar scene. He was standing in front of the
Headmaster’s desk, with Dumbledore seated behind it. The old wizard was
smiling gently.
Headmaster’s desk, with Dumbledore seated behind it. The old wizard was
smiling gently.
“Harry, Mister Weasley, Miss Granger. If you are watching this memory, then I
am dead.” He smiled. “Or, as I prefer, I have gone on the next great
adventure. I cannot tell you how I died — if I knew that I would have avoided
it, of course — but since I came very close to dying in the fight with Tom
Riddle in Hogsmeade, I think it is a safe assumption that he proved to be more
devious than I thought.” He sighed.
am dead.” He smiled. “Or, as I prefer, I have gone on the next great
adventure. I cannot tell you how I died — if I knew that I would have avoided
it, of course — but since I came very close to dying in the fight with Tom
Riddle in Hogsmeade, I think it is a safe assumption that he proved to be more
devious than I thought.” He sighed.
“In any case, unless I managed to at least destroy his body before I died, Tom
will jump at the opportunity my death offers him, and move against the
Ministry and Hogwarts, which he will perceive as defenceless. A not altogether
wrong assumption, to be honest. Without any false modesty, I have to say that
with me gone, there is no wizard or witch left in Britain who can fight him as
an equal on the battlefield. And while that is a grim truth, even worse is the
fact that most wizards and witches will know this. While I do not expect the
Ministry or my friends to surrender, I have to assume that they will fight
with the courage born out of desperation, expecting to lose. Which is often a
self-fulfilling prophecy.”
will jump at the opportunity my death offers him, and move against the
Ministry and Hogwarts, which he will perceive as defenceless. A not altogether
wrong assumption, to be honest. Without any false modesty, I have to say that
with me gone, there is no wizard or witch left in Britain who can fight him as
an equal on the battlefield. And while that is a grim truth, even worse is the
fact that most wizards and witches will know this. While I do not expect the
Ministry or my friends to surrender, I have to assume that they will fight
with the courage born out of desperation, expecting to lose. Which is often a
self-fulfilling prophecy.”
The Headmaster sighed once again, and his smile slipped just a bit. “And yet,
you, you three, you know that the situation, dire as it may appear, is far
from hopeless. Harry, you have made much progress in your training. I hope
that between this message and my death, I have managed to teach you a bit
more, but that does not matter that much. You know what you need to know, and
more training will be helpful, but not crucial.”
you, you three, you know that the situation, dire as it may appear, is far
from hopeless. Harry, you have made much progress in your training. I hope
that between this message and my death, I have managed to teach you a bit
more, but that does not matter that much. You know what you need to know, and
more training will be helpful, but not crucial.”
Harry didn’t think so. “I can barely catch a glimpse of a fake memory,” he
muttered.
muttered.
“You might not think that you are ready, of course,” the Headmaster’s memory
continued, as if it had heard Harry, “which is only natural — facing the Dark
Lord in single combat, even, or especially, in your mind, is quite daunting.”
continued, as if it had heard Harry, “which is only natural — facing the Dark
Lord in single combat, even, or especially, in your mind, is quite daunting.”
The old wizard had a gift for understatement, Harry thought.
“Which is why we will be cheating.”
“What?” Harry thought all three of them had said the same thing in response to
this statement.
this statement.
Dumbledore, smiling widely now, raised his wand. “With this, to be exact. You
have heard the saying ‘the wand chooses the wizard’, I assume — Garrick is
quite fond of quoting it. It is true as well — each wand is suited best for a
single wizard or witch. If they use another wand, one less suited for them,
their spellcasting suffers. Mister Weasley has experienced this personally, as
you may recall.”
have heard the saying ‘the wand chooses the wizard’, I assume — Garrick is
quite fond of quoting it. It is true as well — each wand is suited best for a
single wizard or witch. If they use another wand, one less suited for them,
their spellcasting suffers. Mister Weasley has experienced this personally, as
you may recall.”
“Yes,” Harry heard Ron mutter, before Hermione shushed him.
“And yet, there is one known exception — although there might be more; we can
hardly be certain where magic is concerned — a wand that will serve anyone
wielding it, and better than any other wand: The Elder Wand.”
hardly be certain where magic is concerned — a wand that will serve anyone
wielding it, and better than any other wand: The Elder Wand.”
“Blimey!” Ron said.
Harry glaced at him and saw that Hermione was doing the same. Obviously, their
friend knew what this meant.
friend knew what this meant.
“Thought by most wizards to be a legend, and sought by those who think it is
real, the Elder Wand is said to have been crafted by Death itself.” Dumbledore
slowly shook his head. ‘I do not believe this. I think it is far more likely
that its first wielder, Antioch Peverell, made that up to conceal the wand’s
origin — either because he killed its former wielder, or because he had
crafted it himself using the Dark Arts. Although seeing as I am dead, I might
have been proven incorrect by now.’ He smiled again. “No matter its origin,
the Elder Wand will allow you, Harry, to penetrate the Dark Lord’s defences,
and face him in his own mind. It will not grant you victory, though. No wand,
no spell will affect the struggle between you and Tom. All the Elder Wand will
allow you to do is to reach his mind; the rest will be up to you.”
real, the Elder Wand is said to have been crafted by Death itself.” Dumbledore
slowly shook his head. ‘I do not believe this. I think it is far more likely
that its first wielder, Antioch Peverell, made that up to conceal the wand’s
origin — either because he killed its former wielder, or because he had
crafted it himself using the Dark Arts. Although seeing as I am dead, I might
have been proven incorrect by now.’ He smiled again. “No matter its origin,
the Elder Wand will allow you, Harry, to penetrate the Dark Lord’s defences,
and face him in his own mind. It will not grant you victory, though. No wand,
no spell will affect the struggle between you and Tom. All the Elder Wand will
allow you to do is to reach his mind; the rest will be up to you.”
Harry pressed his lips together. When the Headmaster’s memory had mentioned
cheating, he had hoped for something more. He should have known it wouldn’t be
that simple.
cheating, he had hoped for something more. He should have known it wouldn’t be
that simple.
“As you already know, you will have to be rather close to Voldemort to use
Legilimency. Unlike before, finding him will not be the main challenge any
more — after my death, the Dark Lord will grow quite bold. But you will have
to brave his followers, and himself, without my protection. Ideally, he would
seek you out to duel, to prove his own superiority, but I fear that after
killing me, he will not feel the need for such a gesture.” Dumbledore’s smile
disappeared. “A situation that can be laid at my feet, and for which I hope
you will be able to forgive me.”
Legilimency. Unlike before, finding him will not be the main challenge any
more — after my death, the Dark Lord will grow quite bold. But you will have
to brave his followers, and himself, without my protection. Ideally, he would
seek you out to duel, to prove his own superiority, but I fear that after
killing me, he will not feel the need for such a gesture.” Dumbledore’s smile
disappeared. “A situation that can be laid at my feet, and for which I hope
you will be able to forgive me.”
The old wizard’s memory took a deep breath. “Mister Weasley, Miss Granger, it
will be up to you and your friends and allies to protect Harry in my place,
against the Dark Lord’s followers and Voldemort himself.”
will be up to you and your friends and allies to protect Harry in my place,
against the Dark Lord’s followers and Voldemort himself.”
Harry was about to protest — he didn’t want his friends to take such risks for
him — but Hermione shushed him and Ron glared at him.
him — but Hermione shushed him and Ron glared at him.
“I wish I could give you more advice on how to face the Dark Lord and his
followers, but as my death proved, my plans were not as well-made as I
thought.”
followers, but as my death proved, my plans were not as well-made as I
thought.”
Harry heard Ron snort in response, and Hermione whisper something he didn’t
quite catch. Before he could say anything, though, the Headmaster’s memory
spoke up again: “However, I can leave you, Mister Weasley, Miss Granger,
something more tangible than mere advice. Miss Granger, I leave you a quite
exclusive collection of tomes you should find useful for dealing with the Dark
Arts. I will caution you, though: It is very easy to think that the best
counter to a dark curse is another dark curse. While that may be true in some
cases, such ‘solutions’ are often more dangerous than the problems they are
meant to solve. Do not succumb to such temptation — you will regret it, trust
me.”
quite catch. Before he could say anything, though, the Headmaster’s memory
spoke up again: “However, I can leave you, Mister Weasley, Miss Granger,
something more tangible than mere advice. Miss Granger, I leave you a quite
exclusive collection of tomes you should find useful for dealing with the Dark
Arts. I will caution you, though: It is very easy to think that the best
counter to a dark curse is another dark curse. While that may be true in some
cases, such ‘solutions’ are often more dangerous than the problems they are
meant to solve. Do not succumb to such temptation — you will regret it, trust
me.”
Harry glanced to Hermione and saw that the witch was tense, trembling even, as
she slowly nodded.
she slowly nodded.
“Mister Weasley, you may think you are just an average wizard doing what he
can to help his friends, but you have proven yourself both courageous and able
to think on your feet, facing dangers experienced Aurors would run from, or
fail to deal with. I leave you a number of trinkets I have collected over the
years which you should find useful. As with Miss Granger, I have to caution
you, though — they can be quite dangerous, if used improperly. And sometimes
even if used properly.” With a faint smile, the memory added: “I trust your
experience with your brothers will serve you well there.”
can to help his friends, but you have proven yourself both courageous and able
to think on your feet, facing dangers experienced Aurors would run from, or
fail to deal with. I leave you a number of trinkets I have collected over the
years which you should find useful. As with Miss Granger, I have to caution
you, though — they can be quite dangerous, if used improperly. And sometimes
even if used properly.” With a faint smile, the memory added: “I trust your
experience with your brothers will serve you well there.”
“Merlin’s balls!” Ron exclaimed, only to be shushed again by Hermione.
“You may wonder why you three are hearing this, and not others, such as
Alastor, Sirius and my brother, people who will fight at your side, risking
their lives to defeat the Dark Lord.”
Alastor, Sirius and my brother, people who will fight at your side, risking
their lives to defeat the Dark Lord.”
Now that the Headmaster’s image was mentioning it, Harry wondered why Sirius
wasn’t in there with them.
wasn’t in there with them.
“The reason for singling you three out is that Voldemort’s legacy will
continue to threaten Wizarding Britain even after his final death. I am not
talking about his surviving followers, but the hatred and fear his
manipulations and ploys have caused.”
continue to threaten Wizarding Britain even after his final death. I am not
talking about his surviving followers, but the hatred and fear his
manipulations and ploys have caused.”
Harry saw that the Headmaster looked more serious than ever before in this
memory.
memory.
“War brutalises people. As their friends and kin are killed, each side feels
justified in retaliating — and escalating. Especially when fighting an enemy
as vile as the Dark Lord and his followers. Violence often comes easier to
those who have fought in a war. I have seen this in several wars myself.
Experienced it, even, to my great shame.”
justified in retaliating — and escalating. Especially when fighting an enemy
as vile as the Dark Lord and his followers. Violence often comes easier to
those who have fought in a war. I have seen this in several wars myself.
Experienced it, even, to my great shame.”
Harry’s eyes widened. He hadn’t expected that. The Headmaster, doing…
“The Dark Lord’s actions have discredited his cause, and his followers. I do
not doubt that the surviving Death Eaters will be brought to justice.”
Dumbledore took a deep breath. “But many pureblood wizards and witches will
not see justice being done. They will see revenge being taken by the victors.
They have been told for over a year how dangerous the muggleborns are, and how
brutal. Even if they have not taken any action against muggleborns, even if
they have not abused the laws passed by the Ministry, they will be afraid of
being punished just for being purebloods. Those who have been raised in the
belief that blood matters will expect others — the muggleborns — to act
accordingly, and judge people by their blood, not their deeds.
not doubt that the surviving Death Eaters will be brought to justice.”
Dumbledore took a deep breath. “But many pureblood wizards and witches will
not see justice being done. They will see revenge being taken by the victors.
They have been told for over a year how dangerous the muggleborns are, and how
brutal. Even if they have not taken any action against muggleborns, even if
they have not abused the laws passed by the Ministry, they will be afraid of
being punished just for being purebloods. Those who have been raised in the
belief that blood matters will expect others — the muggleborns — to act
accordingly, and judge people by their blood, not their deeds.
“On the other hand, the muggleborns have been persecuted for a year, forced to
leave their homes and go into hiding. They have seen friends and family
arrested, killed even, for no other reason than having been born to muggles.
They have seen their homes, their businesses, taken over by purebloods
profiteering from the Ministry’s laws. Many of them will not want mere
justice, but revenge. And some will not care who they hurt, as long as it is a
pureblood.”
leave their homes and go into hiding. They have seen friends and family
arrested, killed even, for no other reason than having been born to muggles.
They have seen their homes, their businesses, taken over by purebloods
profiteering from the Ministry’s laws. Many of them will not want mere
justice, but revenge. And some will not care who they hurt, as long as it is a
pureblood.”
Harry heard Hermione draw a hissing breath, and knew what she was thinking.
And remembering.
And remembering.
“Britain will be a cauldron ready to boil over after Voldemort’s defeat. And I
fear that many of my oldest friends and allies will not be able to do what
needs to be done to avoid a bloodbath — or another war in ten or twenty
years.”
fear that many of my oldest friends and allies will not be able to do what
needs to be done to avoid a bloodbath — or another war in ten or twenty
years.”
“What?” Harry almost forgot that he was watching a memory. What was the
Headmaster saying?
Headmaster saying?
“Sirius has spent over a decade unjustly imprisoned in Azkaban, surrounded by
monsters forcing him to relive his worst memories. His opinion of the Ministry
is as biased as one would expect after such an ordeal. Alastor has spent
decades hunting dark wizards, and has been crippled for his efforts — and left
unable to trust anyone. My brother… it is not my story to tell, but he has
been deeply wronged by this country, and hasn’t been the same since. Arthur is
a good man, but he has been scorned and belittled by many in the Ministry, and
like Molly, family comes first for him. Amelia is too rooted in the status
quo, too convinced of her own principles, too unwilling to question herself or
to bend when needed. Cornelius is too quick to bow to pressure, too easy to
influence.
monsters forcing him to relive his worst memories. His opinion of the Ministry
is as biased as one would expect after such an ordeal. Alastor has spent
decades hunting dark wizards, and has been crippled for his efforts — and left
unable to trust anyone. My brother… it is not my story to tell, but he has
been deeply wronged by this country, and hasn’t been the same since. Arthur is
a good man, but he has been scorned and belittled by many in the Ministry, and
like Molly, family comes first for him. Amelia is too rooted in the status
quo, too convinced of her own principles, too unwilling to question herself or
to bend when needed. Cornelius is too quick to bow to pressure, too easy to
influence.
“Britain needs justice and reforms, but most of all, it needs people who will
do what’s right, not what’s easy. People who will side with the innocents,
even against their friends and family.” The Headmaster pulled his half-moon
glasses off and seemed to stare straight at Harry.
do what’s right, not what’s easy. People who will side with the innocents,
even against their friends and family.” The Headmaster pulled his half-moon
glasses off and seemed to stare straight at Harry.
“People like you.”
The Headmaster sighed again, and folded his hands. “You must not just win the
war, but the peace as well. I hate placing this burden upon you, especially
seeing what else you already have to shoulder, but I do not see any
alternative. You’re young, but you’ve proven yourselves since your first year
at Hogwarts. You have earned my trust again and again. Rest assured that no
matter where I am, my thoughts are with you.”
war, but the peace as well. I hate placing this burden upon you, especially
seeing what else you already have to shoulder, but I do not see any
alternative. You’re young, but you’ve proven yourselves since your first year
at Hogwarts. You have earned my trust again and again. Rest assured that no
matter where I am, my thoughts are with you.”
---
“Blimey, the man’s barmy! Was barmy.”
Harry chuckled at hearing Ron’s expression, though he felt like crying in
frustration. Dumbledore expected him to not only defeat the Dark Lord, in
single combat, but to reform the country? Three teenagers? “We haven’t even
finished school!” he said, as the memory started to fade.
frustration. Dumbledore expected him to not only defeat the Dark Lord, in
single combat, but to reform the country? Three teenagers? “We haven’t even
finished school!” he said, as the memory started to fade.
Then he was back in the Headmaster’s alcove, rubbing his temple. His back hurt
from being bent for such a long time, and he stretched to relieve some of the
pain.
from being bent for such a long time, and he stretched to relieve some of the
pain.
“Told you, but did you listen?” Sirius was shaking his head at him with a
rueful grin.
rueful grin.
Harry scoffed at him.
“So, what did the Headmaster tell you?”
Harry hesitated. He didn’t want to lie to Sirius, but he didn’t know how his
godfather would take the Headmaster’s words.
godfather would take the Headmaster’s words.
“He explained how Harry can defeat the Dark Lord,” Ron said. “With our help.”
“And he left us quite a few things to help us,” Hermione added.
“And he told us not to lose the peace,” Harry added. He trusted his godfather.
He saw his two friends glancing at him, then at each other.
He saw his two friends glancing at him, then at each other.
“That’s kind of comforting to hear,” Sirius said, grinning, “that Dumbledore
already thought about the time after the war.”
already thought about the time after the war.”
“It was anything but comforting,” Harry said, snorting. “Trust me, killing
Voldemort is the easy part.”
Voldemort is the easy part.”
“What?” Sirius was now staring at them.
Hermione spoke up. “According to the Headmaster, Voldemort’s death might start
a bloodbath as muggleborns take revenge, and purebloods retaliate.”
a bloodbath as muggleborns take revenge, and purebloods retaliate.”
“We can’t let any Death Eaters escape justice, or we’ll have to fight them
again ten years from now!” Sirius said.
again ten years from now!” Sirius said.
That sounded familiar, Harry thought.
“We won’t let any Death Eaters escape. But the Headmaster is, was, concerned
about muggleborns attacking purebloods indiscriminately,” Hermione countered.
“He’s correct, too — we’ve seen that happen.”
about muggleborns attacking purebloods indiscriminately,” Hermione countered.
“He’s correct, too — we’ve seen that happen.”
“Bloody berk,” Ron muttered. Louder, he added: “And he doesn’t think you and
the rest of the Order will be able to keep the muggleborns in check in that
case.”
the rest of the Order will be able to keep the muggleborns in check in that
case.”
Sirius frowned. “How bad could it be?”
Hermione looked at him. “Purebloods and muggleborns starting to kill each
other, like Death Eaters — attacking homes, starting riots, trying to drive
their neighbours out…”
other, like Death Eaters — attacking homes, starting riots, trying to drive
their neighbours out…”
Sirius cursed. “They’re not Death Eaters!”
“No, but it won’t be too long before people on both sides start acting like
them,” Hermione said. “As long as everyone thinks they’re doing the right
thing…”
them,” Hermione said. “As long as everyone thinks they’re doing the right
thing…”
Sirius was silent for a moment. Then he spoke up again: “But what if they are
attacking Death Eaters, like the Resistance?”
attacking Death Eaters, like the Resistance?”
“How would they know who’s a Death Eater? We have had a lot of trouble finding
them, even with all the spying and other help we received,” Hermione said. “We
cannot tolerate vigilante justice, certainly not once Voldemort is dead and
the war won.”
them, even with all the spying and other help we received,” Hermione said. “We
cannot tolerate vigilante justice, certainly not once Voldemort is dead and
the war won.”
“But who will take over hunting the Death Eaters down? The muggleborns don’t
trust the Ministry, and many of the purebloods don’t trust the muggleborns,”
Ron asked.
trust the Ministry, and many of the purebloods don’t trust the muggleborns,”
Ron asked.
“Hah!” Sirius sneered. “Trust the Ministry with hunting the Death Eaters? They
couldn’t hunt down a bunch of dead flobberworms in an empty room!”
couldn’t hunt down a bunch of dead flobberworms in an empty room!”
“We can’t just take over the country and replace the Old Families with
ourselves. We need to reform the Ministry and Wizarding Britain,” Hermione
said. “And we need the trust of the purebloods too — those who did not support
the Dark Lord, at least.”
ourselves. We need to reform the Ministry and Wizarding Britain,” Hermione
said. “And we need the trust of the purebloods too — those who did not support
the Dark Lord, at least.”
“Those are either already on our side, or too cowardly to do anything, no
matter who’s ruling them.” Sirius shrugged. “But let’s get you your
inheritances, and then let’s focus on killing the Dark Lord. We can worry
about the rest once we have won the war.”
matter who’s ruling them.” Sirius shrugged. “But let’s get you your
inheritances, and then let’s focus on killing the Dark Lord. We can worry
about the rest once we have won the war.”
Harry nodded in agreement.
---
“Here, Harry!”
Ron Weasley watched as Sirius handed Harry Dumbledore’s wand. The Elder Wand.
He saw Harry take it, then give it a wave, and saw his friend’s eyes widen
when Harry gasped. “Whoa!”
He saw Harry take it, then give it a wave, and saw his friend’s eyes widen
when Harry gasped. “Whoa!”
Ron had never been as jealous of his best friend as in that moment. Harry had
just been handed the legendary wand of Death himself. One of the three Deathly
Hallows. According to legend, people had fought and killed for that wand,
risked their lives for it — and Harry just received it as if it was a
seven-Galleon wand in Ollivander’s. Or, worse, a hand-me-down from another
family member, like Ron’s first wand.
just been handed the legendary wand of Death himself. One of the three Deathly
Hallows. According to legend, people had fought and killed for that wand,
risked their lives for it — and Harry just received it as if it was a
seven-Galleon wand in Ollivander’s. Or, worse, a hand-me-down from another
family member, like Ron’s first wand.
Then he remembered why Harry had received the Elder Wand. His friend would
have to face Voldemort in a fight to the death, and needed it just to have a
chance. Just to be able to challenge the Dark Lord, according to Dumbledore —
the wand wouldn’t help him in the actual fight.
have to face Voldemort in a fight to the death, and needed it just to have a
chance. Just to be able to challenge the Dark Lord, according to Dumbledore —
the wand wouldn’t help him in the actual fight.
Ron had never felt so ashamed of himself. Not since their fourth year, at
least.
least.
“Here, Ron!”
He saw Sirius hold out a package to him, about the size of a muggle shoe
carton his dad had once brought home, and remembered that Dumbledore had left
him something as well — a few ‘trinkets’. Hermione received a library, Harry a
legendary wand, and he was left with some toys. “Thanks,” he said.
carton his dad had once brought home, and remembered that Dumbledore had left
him something as well — a few ‘trinkets’. Hermione received a library, Harry a
legendary wand, and he was left with some toys. “Thanks,” he said.
He almost didn’t want to open it, but the sight of Hermione’s eyes lighting up
when she was presented with a trunk full of books and Sirius commented that he
had ‘spent an hour collecting them in Albus’s flat’ made him look for any
distraction, before he started to be jealous of his own girlfriend.
when she was presented with a trunk full of books and Sirius commented that he
had ‘spent an hour collecting them in Albus’s flat’ made him look for any
distraction, before he started to be jealous of his own girlfriend.
There were half a dozen… ‘trinkets’ was a good description, Ron decided, since
he didn’t recognise any of them, inside the package. And a letter. He opened
the letter, started to read the descriptions of the different items, and then
chuckled, ruefully, at the last line.
he didn’t recognise any of them, inside the package. And a letter. He opened
the letter, started to read the descriptions of the different items, and then
chuckled, ruefully, at the last line.
*I leave you with not just these devices, which should prove to be quite
useful in your hands, but also with the counsel that even seemingly modest
trinkets can turn out to be crucial and important at the right moment. Just
like wizards.*
useful in your hands, but also with the counsel that even seemingly modest
trinkets can turn out to be crucial and important at the right moment. Just
like wizards.*
The Headmaster had known him well enough for one last lesson, or so it seemed.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 27th, 1997**
She was Minister for Magic. The Wizengamot — those who had dared to attend the
emergency session she had called for, at least — had elected her but half an
hour before. Everything had been in accordance with the law. Amelia Bones told
herself this as she stepped inside the Minister’s office. Her office, now.
emergency session she had called for, at least — had elected her but half an
hour before. Everything had been in accordance with the law. Amelia Bones told
herself this as she stepped inside the Minister’s office. Her office, now.
It had been repaired since Cornelius’s death, but nothing had been changed.
She wasn’t about to change much herself. Cornelius’s personal belongings had
been sent to his family already, and the office would suffice for her needs.
She wasn’t about to change much herself. Cornelius’s personal belongings had
been sent to his family already, and the office would suffice for her needs.
It wasn’t as if she would be starting her term in the shadow of her
predecessor, as other Ministers had had to. Cornelius would not be counted
among the great Ministers. No, she thought, looking at the lead article of the
Daily Prophet placed on her desk by her secretary, at the big letters spelling
‘DUMBLEDORE DEAD!’, if anyone was to overshadow her, it was Dumbledore. Even
dead his presence lingered. There had already been talks of placing a portrait
of him in her office, so it’d be able to advise her once it was activated.
predecessor, as other Ministers had had to. Cornelius would not be counted
among the great Ministers. No, she thought, looking at the lead article of the
Daily Prophet placed on her desk by her secretary, at the big letters spelling
‘DUMBLEDORE DEAD!’, if anyone was to overshadow her, it was Dumbledore. Even
dead his presence lingered. There had already been talks of placing a portrait
of him in her office, so it’d be able to advise her once it was activated.
She had not decided to become Minister for Magic to be famous, she told
herself as she sat down. She had become Minister because no one else was able
to do what was needed to save the country. If she was to be seen as the
mouthpiece of a portrait, then that was a small price to pay, as long as she
could save Britain.
herself as she sat down. She had become Minister because no one else was able
to do what was needed to save the country. If she was to be seen as the
mouthpiece of a portrait, then that was a small price to pay, as long as she
could save Britain.
From all threats, she added to herself, looking at her calendar, where the
entry of her upcoming meeting with Black, Potter and Granger was quite
prominently placed.
entry of her upcoming meeting with Black, Potter and Granger was quite
prominently placed.
---
**Outside Stamford, Lincolnshire, Britain, January 27th, 1997**
The Dark Lord Voldemort sneered at the missive he had just received from his
agent. The houngans of Jamaica had heard of Dumbledore’s death, and claimed
that he had been killed while breaking into their holy library — not that they
had called it that. If they thought that such a claim would impress anyone who
mattered, then they were fools. Although they might just be trying to cow
their own subjects. And some of the houngans might even honestly believe that
their pitiful defences had managed to fell his greatest foe, Voldemort
thought.
agent. The houngans of Jamaica had heard of Dumbledore’s death, and claimed
that he had been killed while breaking into their holy library — not that they
had called it that. If they thought that such a claim would impress anyone who
mattered, then they were fools. Although they might just be trying to cow
their own subjects. And some of the houngans might even honestly believe that
their pitiful defences had managed to fell his greatest foe, Voldemort
thought.
Fortunately, Dumbledore had died in Hogwarts, so the houngans’ claims would
look foolish once he took responsibility.
look foolish once he took responsibility.
He smiled, his slight anger fading quickly. His greatest, his only foe, was
dead. Killed by a clever trap of his, even! A fitting end for Dumbledore, laid
low by a Slytherin’s cunning and his mastery of the Dark Arts!
dead. Killed by a clever trap of his, even! A fitting end for Dumbledore, laid
low by a Slytherin’s cunning and his mastery of the Dark Arts!
Wizarding Britain was his now. No one could stand against him now, not for any
length of time. All that was left were some minor obstacles: the mudbloods
still fighting against their betters, those blindly following Dumbledore even
after his death — and the Boy-Who-Lived.
length of time. All that was left were some minor obstacles: the mudbloods
still fighting against their betters, those blindly following Dumbledore even
after his death — and the Boy-Who-Lived.
And he had plans to deal with those obstacles.
Chapter 38: Politics
====================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox, fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved
the story a lot.
the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 38: Politics**
*’Amelia Bones was the obvious choice to succeed Cornelius Fudge. The witch
had been leading the Department of Magical Law Enforcement throughout the
Second Blood War, and was widely seen as both competent and incorruptible —
and willing to die rather than surrender to the Dark Lord. Those who had tied
their fates to Dumbledore saw her as their last hope to survive the war after
the Chief Warlock had been killed.*
had been leading the Department of Magical Law Enforcement throughout the
Second Blood War, and was widely seen as both competent and incorruptible —
and willing to die rather than surrender to the Dark Lord. Those who had tied
their fates to Dumbledore saw her as their last hope to survive the war after
the Chief Warlock had been killed.*
*However, Amelia Bones also had the reputation of a witch who scorned
politics. More than a few members of the Wizengamot must have been privately
wondering — and worrying — about how she would handle issues that required
compromises and deals, instead of a firm dedication to upholding the law.*
politics. More than a few members of the Wizengamot must have been privately
wondering — and worrying — about how she would handle issues that required
compromises and deals, instead of a firm dedication to upholding the law.*
*Her biggest problem, though, was the fact that for many muggleborns, Amelia
Bones had been the face of the Ministry’s oppression. It had been she who
commanded the Aurors and Hit-Wizards harassing and arresting them, she who led
the Ministry’s efforts to enforce the muggleborn laws, and she who had
authorised the undercover mission against the Muggleborn Resistance. Some of
the muggleborns who had not lived through the First Blood War even considered
her a worse enemy than Voldemort himself.’*
Bones had been the face of the Ministry’s oppression. It had been she who
commanded the Aurors and Hit-Wizards harassing and arresting them, she who led
the Ministry’s efforts to enforce the muggleborn laws, and she who had
authorised the undercover mission against the Muggleborn Resistance. Some of
the muggleborns who had not lived through the First Blood War even considered
her a worse enemy than Voldemort himself.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Diagon Alley, January 27th, 1997**
Hermione Granger entered Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes wearing a wig, large
old-fashioned glasses, and slightly shabby robes. None of which were affected
by the door’s variant of the Thief’s Downfall. One of the twins was behind the
counter, sorting through a box of various enchanted sour drops with his wand —
which was pointed in her direction when she stepped closer. She suppressed the
urge to draw her own. No one else was around.
old-fashioned glasses, and slightly shabby robes. None of which were affected
by the door’s variant of the Thief’s Downfall. One of the twins was behind the
counter, sorting through a box of various enchanted sour drops with his wand —
which was pointed in her direction when she stepped closer. She suppressed the
urge to draw her own. No one else was around.
She put her hands on the counter and leaned forward, ignoring the way his wand
was almost touching her chest. “Hi Forge,” she said.
was almost touching her chest. “Hi Forge,” she said.
His eyes widened when he — finally — recognised her. “Using muggle disguises
is cheating,” he mock-complained.
is cheating,” he mock-complained.
“Think of it as pointing out a weakness in your defences.” Hermione smiled for
a moment, then grew serious again. “Do you have a moment?”
a moment, then grew serious again. “Do you have a moment?”
“Of course.” A flick of his wand flipped the sign on the door to ‘closed’, and
a swish opened the door to the backroom. “After you, milady!” he said,
grinning exaggeratedly.
a swish opened the door to the backroom. “After you, milady!” he said,
grinning exaggeratedly.
Hermione snorted. When she stepped through the door, she felt a slight
tingling sensation running over her. More enchantments. And the door had been
reinforced as well. She glanced at the twin behind her.
tingling sensation running over her. More enchantments. And the door had been
reinforced as well. She glanced at the twin behind her.
He shrugged. “Can’t be too cautious, with Dumbledore gone.”
She nodded. The shop had been attacked during the riot in Diagon Alley, and
later Davis and Greengrass had tried to infiltrate it. The Death Eaters would
certainly try again soon. “You’re not planning to stay and fight.” She didn’t
make it sound as a question, but she wasn’t quite as certain as she tried to
appear. The twins had been quite reckless in the past. They hadn’t been in a
war back then, though.
later Davis and Greengrass had tried to infiltrate it. The Death Eaters would
certainly try again soon. “You’re not planning to stay and fight.” She didn’t
make it sound as a question, but she wasn’t quite as certain as she tried to
appear. The twins had been quite reckless in the past. They hadn’t been in a
war back then, though.
“No. Just long enough to make them pay for attacking us.” The wizard grinned.
“We have prepared our escape routes, and a nasty surprise. After this and the
Burrow, they will never dare to attack a Weasley home again!”
“We have prepared our escape routes, and a nasty surprise. After this and the
Burrow, they will never dare to attack a Weasley home again!”
Hermione doubted that — the Dark Lord would want to demonstrate that the
Weasleys could not stand up to him and his followers. “Are you prepared for
the Dark Lord walking down Diagon Alley too?”
Weasleys could not stand up to him and his followers. “Are you prepared for
the Dark Lord walking down Diagon Alley too?”
Fred — or George, she still couldn’t tell them apart — winced. “We could be
prepared… if we were willing to destroy most of Diagon Alley and probably
break the Statute of Secrecy.”
prepared… if we were willing to destroy most of Diagon Alley and probably
break the Statute of Secrecy.”
Hermione nodded. Apparently, they had acquired their own explosives. “Yes.
That is a concern.”
That is a concern.”
“Hopefully the Dark Lord will think we are prepared to do so.” The wizard was
looking at her quite peculiarly.
looking at her quite peculiarly.
Hermione nodded again. “We could probably prepare a shaped charge that would
not do too much collateral damage, but the odds of the Dark Lord walking on
top of such a bomb…” she shrugged. “He has used explosives himself, so he’ll
be watching out for them. There are ways around the common detection spells,
but…”
not do too much collateral damage, but the odds of the Dark Lord walking on
top of such a bomb…” she shrugged. “He has used explosives himself, so he’ll
be watching out for them. There are ways around the common detection spells,
but…”
“Which means you’ll have to drop a bomb on him, if you want to kill him. One
of those that destroyed Malfoy Manor.” He wasn’t dropping the topic.
of those that destroyed Malfoy Manor.” He wasn’t dropping the topic.
“I think he’ll be prepared for that as well. We’d need to prevent all sorts of
magical travel right before the bomb is dropped…” she trailed off.
magical travel right before the bomb is dropped…” she trailed off.
“And that means whoever is casting the jinxes will not escape either.”
“Yes.” And coordinating such an attack would require a lot of planning, and
probably some luck as well.
probably some luck as well.
“You’d still try it if you saw an opportunity, right?” He leaned against a
workbench, crossing his arms.
workbench, crossing his arms.
“As a desperate measure, yes. But we’ve made other plans.” Hermione smiled.
“Dumbledore’s been preparing a surprise for the Dark Lord for a while, and his
death hasn’t stopped the preparations.”
“Dumbledore’s been preparing a surprise for the Dark Lord for a while, and his
death hasn’t stopped the preparations.”
“Oh?”
“Yes.” She wasn’t about to tell him anything else. She probably shouldn’t have
told him as much as she had, Hermione thought. But he deserved to know that
not all hope was lost. Especially since the twins might try something brave
but desperate themselves otherwise.
told him as much as she had, Hermione thought. But he deserved to know that
not all hope was lost. Especially since the twins might try something brave
but desperate themselves otherwise.
“I don’t suppose that you are visiting our humble abode because you need help
with that?”
with that?”
She shook her head. “No. I’m here because of Dennis Creevey. He’s a victim of
the Withering Curse, and we don’t want to leave him in the Ministry’s care,
but we also can’t spare the people to take care of him ourselves. We’d like to
let those who take care of Greengrass and Davis take over.”
the Withering Curse, and we don’t want to leave him in the Ministry’s care,
but we also can’t spare the people to take care of him ourselves. We’d like to
let those who take care of Greengrass and Davis take over.”
“It’s not us,” he said, frowning for a second.
“But you know them.” She kept looking straight at him.
“Yes.”
“And the Headmaster organised them.”
“Yes.”
“So, they can be trusted.” Or so Hermione assumed. Dumbledore’s death had
changed a lot, but many would simply try to go on as usual.
changed a lot, but many would simply try to go on as usual.
“Yes.” The twin sighed. “I’ll contact them.”
“Thank you. With a bit of luck, it won’t be needed for long.” But longer than
he’d expect, Hermione thought. Once Voldemort was dead, the Ministry would be
taking another look at their alliance. Tomorrow’s meeting with Bones would be
crucial to lay the groundwork for the time after the war.
he’d expect, Hermione thought. Once Voldemort was dead, the Ministry would be
taking another look at their alliance. Tomorrow’s meeting with Bones would be
crucial to lay the groundwork for the time after the war.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 27th, 1997**
Brenda Brocktuckle pushed the meal that had been floated into her cell around
on the tray. She had been hungry, until she’d overheard the guards’
conversation through the slit in her cell’s door while they distributed the
meals. Dumbledore was dead! Killed by a dark curse!
on the tray. She had been hungry, until she’d overheard the guards’
conversation through the slit in her cell’s door while they distributed the
meals. Dumbledore was dead! Killed by a dark curse!
A few months ago, such news would have shocked and saddened Brenda
Brocktuckle. But now, sitting in a cell in the Ministry, she smiled. With the
Headmaster dead, the Dark Lord was certain to win the war. And without
Dumbledore, the Ministry wouldn’t be able to resist — they certainly wouldn’t
dare to sentence her or the other prisoners to death!
Brocktuckle. But now, sitting in a cell in the Ministry, she smiled. With the
Headmaster dead, the Dark Lord was certain to win the war. And without
Dumbledore, the Ministry wouldn’t be able to resist — they certainly wouldn’t
dare to sentence her or the other prisoners to death!
She knew that the Dark Lord didn’t care that much about his followers,
especially not those who had failed him, but executing them would be a slight
he’d have to repay with blood. Lots of blood. And, she told herself, not for
the first time, she hadn’t failed him. She had done what she had been ordered
to — she had planted the cursed paper aeroplanes and had struck down the
traitors in the Auror Corps. That the Dark Lord’s forces had failed to take
over the Ministry hadn’t been her fault; others had failed to stop the
mudbloods and French from breaching their lines. If anyone was to blame, then
it would be Bellatrix Lestrange. The dark witch had been in command. Brenda
had only followed orders.
especially not those who had failed him, but executing them would be a slight
he’d have to repay with blood. Lots of blood. And, she told herself, not for
the first time, she hadn’t failed him. She had done what she had been ordered
to — she had planted the cursed paper aeroplanes and had struck down the
traitors in the Auror Corps. That the Dark Lord’s forces had failed to take
over the Ministry hadn’t been her fault; others had failed to stop the
mudbloods and French from breaching their lines. If anyone was to blame, then
it would be Bellatrix Lestrange. The dark witch had been in command. Brenda
had only followed orders.
She just hoped the Dark Lord would see it that way. At least she had been
under Malcolm’s command as well, so if the Dark Lord was looking for a
scapegoat, and unwilling to let Lestrange be blamed — rumours claimed she had
been his lover — maybe Malcolm would be the one to get tortured as a
punishment.
under Malcolm’s command as well, so if the Dark Lord was looking for a
scapegoat, and unwilling to let Lestrange be blamed — rumours claimed she had
been his lover — maybe Malcolm would be the one to get tortured as a
punishment.
Brenda put the tray down on her bed, drew her legs up and wrapped her arms
around her knees. And even if that didn’t work out… she didn’t want to get
tortured, but anything was better than dying. At least the Ministry couldn’t
get a Dementor to suck out her soul. And, she thought with a cynical smile,
they couldn’t send her to Azkaban to be guarded by Dementors either.
around her knees. And even if that didn’t work out… she didn’t want to get
tortured, but anything was better than dying. At least the Ministry couldn’t
get a Dementor to suck out her soul. And, she thought with a cynical smile,
they couldn’t send her to Azkaban to be guarded by Dementors either.
She snorted, almost against her will. Who would have thought that there’d be a
day she’d be glad that the Ministry had lost control of the Dementors? She was
an Auror, she shouldn’t be imprisoned in the very cells to which she had sent
so many criminals! It was all the fault of those mudbloods, and of the blood
traitors!
day she’d be glad that the Ministry had lost control of the Dementors? She was
an Auror, she shouldn’t be imprisoned in the very cells to which she had sent
so many criminals! It was all the fault of those mudbloods, and of the blood
traitors!
She hissed through her clenched teeth. They’d pay. Brenda would get out of
these cells, and she’d make all of them pay!
these cells, and she’d make all of them pay!
---
**London, East End, January 27th, 1997**
“Home, sweet home,” Hermione Granger whispered when she entered the safe house
in London to which the Resistance had returned. It wasn’t quite the joke she
would have liked it to be — after months of living here, moving back from
Hogwarts felt like coming home.
in London to which the Resistance had returned. It wasn’t quite the joke she
would have liked it to be — after months of living here, moving back from
Hogwarts felt like coming home.
And wasn’t that sad.
“How did it go?” Sally-Anne stepped out of the kitchen as soon as Hermione
drew near — the other witch must have waited for her.
drew near — the other witch must have waited for her.
“We can move Dennis later today,” Hermione said.
Sally-Anne smiled. “Thank God!” She sighed. “I mean, I’d like to care for him,
and it wouldn’t take much, but…”
and it wouldn’t take much, but…”
“We can’t spare a permanent guard for him, and if anything happened, no one
would know how to find him,” Hermione finished for her friend. She didn’t
mention that should all of the Resistance perish, then the odds of Dennis ever
being woken up, much less getting cured, would be very, very low.
would know how to find him,” Hermione finished for her friend. She didn’t
mention that should all of the Resistance perish, then the odds of Dennis ever
being woken up, much less getting cured, would be very, very low.
“Yes. But I still feel guilty about moving him out from here.” Sally-Anne
grimaced.
grimaced.
“Me too,” Hermione said. She wasn’t quite lying, but she felt rather more
guilty about failing him in the first place. Besides, Dennis would understand
that they couldn’t spare anyone to care for him, not if they wanted to win
this war.
guilty about failing him in the first place. Besides, Dennis would understand
that they couldn’t spare anyone to care for him, not if they wanted to win
this war.
“Have you heard anything from the Ministry?” Sally-Anne asked.
Hermione saw that the other girl was fidgeting with her hands. Not quite
wringing them, but close. She shook her head. “No. Tomorrow’s meeting hasn’t
been rescheduled, though.”
wringing them, but close. She shook her head. “No. Tomorrow’s meeting hasn’t
been rescheduled, though.”
“I don’t like that you’re going there alone.” Sally-Anne was frowning, though
it looked more like a pout.
it looked more like a pout.
“If it’s a trap, then I’d rather have everyone else safe. Your chances of
saving me are much greater that way.” Hermione had used that argument quite
often in the discussion. “I won’t be alone, anyway. And Ron will not be at the
meeting either.” Although he’d be in the Ministry, visiting his father and
brother.
saving me are much greater that way.” Hermione had used that argument quite
often in the discussion. “I won’t be alone, anyway. And Ron will not be at the
meeting either.” Although he’d be in the Ministry, visiting his father and
brother.
Sally-Anne blinked. “Why not? Everyone at Hogwarts knows about your
relationship after you spilled the beans to Brown and Patil.” There was a
slight sneer in her voice when she mentioned the two Gryffindors.
relationship after you spilled the beans to Brown and Patil.” There was a
slight sneer in her voice when she mentioned the two Gryffindors.
“I’m attending for the Resistance, Sirius will represent the Order, and Harry
is the Boy-Who-Lived,” Hermione said.
is the Boy-Who-Lived,” Hermione said.
“Ah. No place for the Resistance leader’s pureblood boyfriend?” Sally-Anne was
smiling now, teasing.
smiling now, teasing.
“We’d actually considered that,” Hermione said. ‘To show that we don’t care
about blood.’ She smiled cynically when she saw the other witch wince slightly
— lately, some of the Resistance seemed to care greatly about someone’s blood
— and continued: “But I think Bones would not think highly of me should I show
up with a boyfriend to a meeting.”
about blood.’ She smiled cynically when she saw the other witch wince slightly
— lately, some of the Resistance seemed to care greatly about someone’s blood
— and continued: “But I think Bones would not think highly of me should I show
up with a boyfriend to a meeting.”
“She’d underestimate you, though.”
“She might — and as a result, she might betray us.” Hermione knew that the
Resistance was not quite as strong as many, including some of their own
members, thought they were. The Ministry would regret it, deeply, but that
wouldn’t help those killed in an ambush, or in retaliation.
Resistance was not quite as strong as many, including some of their own
members, thought they were. The Ministry would regret it, deeply, but that
wouldn’t help those killed in an ambush, or in retaliation.
“What? Do you think Bones will sell us out to the Dark Lord?” Sally-Anne was
gaping at her.
gaping at her.
“No. She’s too smart to stab us in the back during the war, either. But once
the war is over the Ministry won’t need us any more. If the Minister sees us
as a bunch of kids led by a stupid teenager she’ll be unlikely to work with
us.” Quite the contrary, actually.
the war is over the Ministry won’t need us any more. If the Minister sees us
as a bunch of kids led by a stupid teenager she’ll be unlikely to work with
us.” Quite the contrary, actually.
Sally-Anne exhaled loudly. “We are rather young. Especially for wizards and
witches.”
witches.”
“Yes.” And if they acted their age, they’d invite trouble. Hermione snorted —
she had spent a big part of her time at Hogwarts trying to get Harry and Ron
to act more maturely. This wasn’t that different.
she had spent a big part of her time at Hogwarts trying to get Harry and Ron
to act more maturely. This wasn’t that different.
Far more was at stake this time, though.
---
**Hogwarts, January 27th, 1997**
“Harry! Harry!”
Harry Potter knew that voice. He had heard it often enough in the last few
days — both cheerful, and desperate. Luna was definitely sounding cheerful
today. She was about the only one in Hogwarts, with the possible exception of
some secret pureblood bigots, he thought. He turned around and saw Luna and
Ginny walking towards Ron and him. They must have just left the infirmary.
days — both cheerful, and desperate. Luna was definitely sounding cheerful
today. She was about the only one in Hogwarts, with the possible exception of
some secret pureblood bigots, he thought. He turned around and saw Luna and
Ginny walking towards Ron and him. They must have just left the infirmary.
“Hi, Luna, hi, Ginny,” he said.
“Hi.” Ginny’s greeting was not as enthusiastic as Luna’s.
Ron simply nodded at them. Harry’s friend seemed to either miss or ignore his
sister’s resulting frown — he had been quite distracted, after Dumbledore’s
message.
sister’s resulting frown — he had been quite distracted, after Dumbledore’s
message.
“How is your father?” Harry asked, before a sibling row could break out.
Tempers were frayed enough.
Tempers were frayed enough.
“He’s already writing and researching again!” Luna said, beaming at him.
‘Madam Pomfrey released him a few days ago.’ Scrunching her nose, she added:
“Although he might be a carrier for some illness — she said he’d drive the
other patients crazy if he were to stay longer. I’ll have to ask her for
treatment for that.”
‘Madam Pomfrey released him a few days ago.’ Scrunching her nose, she added:
“Although he might be a carrier for some illness — she said he’d drive the
other patients crazy if he were to stay longer. I’ll have to ask her for
treatment for that.”
Harry didn’t quite know how to answer that. He settled on nodding. “How are
you two doing?”
you two doing?”
“With Daddy healthy again, I’m doing fine!” Luna said with a wide smile.
“Shouldn’t we ask you that?” Ginny said. “You were very close to Dumbledore.”
She bit her lip right afterwards.
She bit her lip right afterwards.
Before Harry could assure the girl that this wasn’t exactly a secret, Luna
piped up. “Oh, yes. I think Harry holds the record for being called to the
Headmaster’s office. I’d have to ask Hermione to check.”
piped up. “Oh, yes. I think Harry holds the record for being called to the
Headmaster’s office. I’d have to ask Hermione to check.”
“It wasn’t quite like that,” Harry said.
Ron chuckled. “Close enough, in our early years.”
Harry realised that they were correct — he couldn’t remember any students who
had met Dumbledore as often. The Headmaster had been quite distant, for all
his friendly manner.
had met Dumbledore as often. The Headmaster had been quite distant, for all
his friendly manner.
“Will you be OK?”
Ginny’s question shook Harry out of his thoughts. The witch was staring at
him.
him.
She was probably worried about the war, with her family so prominently
involved. Harry slowly nodded. “The Headmaster was prepared for such an…
eventuality, I think he’d say.”
involved. Harry slowly nodded. “The Headmaster was prepared for such an…
eventuality, I think he’d say.”
“I don’t doubt that,” Ginny said with a frown, “but what about you?”
“Me?”
“Yes, you.” Ginny was still staring at him. “And don’t say you’re fine!”
Harry was tempted to say it anyway. He sighed instead. “I’ll be alright.” Once
Voldemort was dead.
Voldemort was dead.
“Don’t nag him, Ginny,” Ron said.
The two siblings stared at each other for a moment, then Ginny looked away.
“Sorry.”
“Sorry.”
“No problem,” Harry said. It was nice to see that she cared. And he was used
to ‘interventions’, as Hermione called them, that were a bit more pushy.
to ‘interventions’, as Hermione called them, that were a bit more pushy.
Which reminded him of tomorrow’s meetings, and his good mood vanished. If the
Ministry tried to double-cross them… He shook his head. “We have to go. More
training.” That was no secret either.
Ministry tried to double-cross them… He shook his head. “We have to go. More
training.” That was no secret either.
“Oh! Good luck!” Luna said, brightly.
“We should get training as well,” Ginny said. “It’s not safe here, not any
more.” She looked at Harry, her chin slightly raised, before glancing at Ron.
more.” She looked at Harry, her chin slightly raised, before glancing at Ron.
She wasn’t wrong, Harry thought, but the kind of training he and Ron were
doing tonight wouldn’t help the girl. “We’ll talk to Moody,” he said after a
moment.
doing tonight wouldn’t help the girl. “We’ll talk to Moody,” he said after a
moment.
Ron glanced at him, but didn’t say anything while Ginny smiled. Luna nodded,
though Harry couldn’t tell if the blonde Ravenclaw actually knew what they
were talking about.
though Harry couldn’t tell if the blonde Ravenclaw actually knew what they
were talking about.
---
A few minutes after they had left the girls, Harry and Ron were in the room
Moody used for their lesson. They were alone, though. Dumbledore was dead,
Sirius was busy at the Ministry, Remus was still in Albania, and Moody
wouldn’t trust anyone to enter his mind.
Moody used for their lesson. They were alone, though. Dumbledore was dead,
Sirius was busy at the Ministry, Remus was still in Albania, and Moody
wouldn’t trust anyone to enter his mind.
That left just one person to practise on.
Harry aimed his wand — the Elder Wand — at Ron.
“Remember: No embarrassing scenes,” his friend said, flinching a tiny bit.
“Promise,” Harry said. He had no plans to delve into Ron’s childhood memories.
He had other plans, though. “Legilimens!”
He had other plans, though. “Legilimens!”
Harry entered Ron’s mind as if his friend had no Occlumency shields at all. A
second after he had cast, he was amidst spheres containing memories, drifting
around, changing sizes as they floated by in a cacophony of words and sounds.
Harry focused his mind, his will. He wanted specific memories. They wouldn’t
be embarrassing, he knew that already, Harry told himself to ease the guilt he
felt.
second after he had cast, he was amidst spheres containing memories, drifting
around, changing sizes as they floated by in a cacophony of words and sounds.
Harry focused his mind, his will. He wanted specific memories. They wouldn’t
be embarrassing, he knew that already, Harry told himself to ease the guilt he
felt.
It was hard to find the memory he wanted, so many other memories were swirling
around him. Some he just needed to catch a glimpse of, or a word, to remember
them himself… there! He grit his teeth and dived in.
around him. Some he just needed to catch a glimpse of, or a word, to remember
them himself… there! He grit his teeth and dived in.
He was in a small restaurant. A French one, judging by the menus and the
accents. Looking around, he spotted his two best friends at a table. Hermione
was wearing a short black dress. Not an evening gown. Ron was wearing a
jacket, though. But the whole set up of the date seemed… less expensive,
certainly less formal than Harry’s own date with the witch. They were talking
about France, about Ron’s family. And about Allan Baker. And the Yule Ball.
Ron was quite open. Brutally honest, even, Harry would say. No pretenses.
accents. Looking around, he spotted his two best friends at a table. Hermione
was wearing a short black dress. Not an evening gown. Ron was wearing a
jacket, though. But the whole set up of the date seemed… less expensive,
certainly less formal than Harry’s own date with the witch. They were talking
about France, about Ron’s family. And about Allan Baker. And the Yule Ball.
Ron was quite open. Brutally honest, even, Harry would say. No pretenses.
He dropped out of the scene when Ron reached out to hold Hermione’s hand.
He floated for a while — how long he couldn’t say — pondering if he should
check another memory of them together. To find out what Ron had done
differently. What had made Hermione choose Harry’s friend over him.
check another memory of them together. To find out what Ron had done
differently. What had made Hermione choose Harry’s friend over him.
He decided against it, though. He felt guilty — and stupid — enough about this
already. She had made her choice.
already. She had made her choice.
He opened his eyes again and saw Ron sitting down on a bench, rubbing his
temples. “Blimey! I didn’t even notice you, not even when you were inside!”
temples. “Blimey! I didn’t even notice you, not even when you were inside!”
“It’s the wand,” Harry said, hefting it. “Let’s try it with a Shield Charm,”
he added. Ron wasn’t exactly Voldemort. The Dark Lord wouldn’t be that easy.
he added. Ron wasn’t exactly Voldemort. The Dark Lord wouldn’t be that easy.
“Alright. Protego!”
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, January 27th, 1997**
“Trust me, Albus had plans for all eventualities. This war is far from lost.”
Sirius Black was smiling as confidently as he could at Elphias Doge while he
sat in his preferred armchair in the living room of Grimmauld Place.
Sirius Black was smiling as confidently as he could at Elphias Doge while he
sat in his preferred armchair in the living room of Grimmauld Place.
The old wizard — almost as old as Dumbledore had been, but not nearly as wise
— didn’t look convinced, though. He took a deep breath. “But what can we do,
without Albus? No one else could stand against the Dark Lord. His forces
barely failed to take the Ministry before, and that was without him being
present.” Shaking his almost bald head, he went on: “No. We best flee the
country. Gather support on foreign shores.”
— didn’t look convinced, though. He took a deep breath. “But what can we do,
without Albus? No one else could stand against the Dark Lord. His forces
barely failed to take the Ministry before, and that was without him being
present.” Shaking his almost bald head, he went on: “No. We best flee the
country. Gather support on foreign shores.”
Sirius was tempted to tell the man about the prophecy, and the plan to kill
Voldemort. That had to remain a secret, though. Instead he snorted. “And what
kind of support do you think we’ll be able to gather, as refugees? If a
country even takes us in, knowing the Dark Lord will want us dead. How long
will we last, bereft of our ancestral homes, and their protections, when he
sends out his assassins after us?” He leaned forward, lowering his voice
slightly. “We could flee to muggle Britain, of course. Abandon magic and live
like muggles.”
Voldemort. That had to remain a secret, though. Instead he snorted. “And what
kind of support do you think we’ll be able to gather, as refugees? If a
country even takes us in, knowing the Dark Lord will want us dead. How long
will we last, bereft of our ancestral homes, and their protections, when he
sends out his assassins after us?” He leaned forward, lowering his voice
slightly. “We could flee to muggle Britain, of course. Abandon magic and live
like muggles.”
Elphias gasped at him. “Surely not!”
“That’s the only alternative. How many enemies did Albus make since he
defeated Grindelwald? And how many of them will want to take revenge, with him
dead?” Sirius scoffed. “We can hide among muggles, or we can stand and fight.”
defeated Grindelwald? And how many of them will want to take revenge, with him
dead?” Sirius scoffed. “We can hide among muggles, or we can stand and fight.”
“And die,” Elphias added. He sounded more resigned than afraid now, though. At
least Sirius thought so.
least Sirius thought so.
“We may very well die. Like so many of us in the last war. Did we let that
hold us back, or make us back down?” Sirius shook his head. “And trust me, the
Dark Lord hasn’t won yet.”
hold us back, or make us back down?” Sirius shook his head. “And trust me, the
Dark Lord hasn’t won yet.”
“But what can we do against him? He even killed Albus!”
“Albus made plans, Elphias. That’s all I can say.”
Suddenly, the man’s eyes seemed to light up. “It’s the Boy-Who-Lived, isn’t
it? Harry Potter is the only one who has ever defeated the Dark Lord!”
it? Harry Potter is the only one who has ever defeated the Dark Lord!”
Sirius didn’t wince or frown. He didn’t obliviate Doge either, although he
wanted to. He knew it would be futile, though — with Albus dead, people would
be turning to Harry as their only hope. It was a sign of how shaken up Doge
was over Albus’s death that the wizard hadn’t thought of Harry until now. He
wasn’t wrong, of course — Harry was the key to defeating Voldemort for good,
although Sirius wouldn’t mind blowing the bastard’s body to dust if given the
opportunity. And even without him knowing about the plan, Voldemort wanted to
kill Harry anyway. Having him come after Sirius’s godson would only help their
plans.
wanted to. He knew it would be futile, though — with Albus dead, people would
be turning to Harry as their only hope. It was a sign of how shaken up Doge
was over Albus’s death that the wizard hadn’t thought of Harry until now. He
wasn’t wrong, of course — Harry was the key to defeating Voldemort for good,
although Sirius wouldn’t mind blowing the bastard’s body to dust if given the
opportunity. And even without him knowing about the plan, Voldemort wanted to
kill Harry anyway. Having him come after Sirius’s godson would only help their
plans.
Sirius told himself all that, and still wanted to take Harry and run. Far
away. Despite his own words. But he knew that his godson would never run. Even
if he might want to, Harry would never leave his friends, and they would never
leave either. Gryffindors! He slowly shook his head. “I can’t tell you
anything. You know that.”
away. Despite his own words. But he knew that his godson would never run. Even
if he might want to, Harry would never leave his friends, and they would never
leave either. Gryffindors! He slowly shook his head. “I can’t tell you
anything. You know that.”
“I know, I know.” The old wizard was grinning now. “I should have realised it
before. All the rumours of special treatment… I won’t tell the others, but
I’ll tell them not to give up hope.”
before. All the rumours of special treatment… I won’t tell the others, but
I’ll tell them not to give up hope.”
Which was what Sirius had wanted him to do. “Good. We need to stand firm in
the Wizengamot. Until…”
the Wizengamot. Until…”
“Yes, until.”
---
Once he had seen his guest out, Sirius leaned back against the wall next to
the fireplace, and closed his eyes. Merlin’s balls, he was exhausted! But at
least now it seemed as if the Order’s supporters in the Wizengamot would hold
together for a bit longer. Which would help in tomorrow’s meeting.
the fireplace, and closed his eyes. Merlin’s balls, he was exhausted! But at
least now it seemed as if the Order’s supporters in the Wizengamot would hold
together for a bit longer. Which would help in tomorrow’s meeting.
“Did you succeed in stiffening their backbones?”
The familiar accent, and the slightly teasing tone, had him smiling before he
opened his eyes and looked at Vivienne d’Aigle. “I hope so.”
opened his eyes and looked at Vivienne d’Aigle. “I hope so.”
The witch was wearing her duelling robes. Cut to not impede her movements, and
tight enough to prevent them from snagging on anything — or from providing an
enemy with an easy hold — they emphasised her figure as well. An effect she
claimed was coincidental. Sirius didn’t think so — duelling was a sport, after
all, and that meant spectators. Not that he minded. Although he hadn’t missed
that prior to the Battle of the Ministry, and the horrible losses her family
had suffered, she hadn’t been wearing these robes quite as often.
tight enough to prevent them from snagging on anything — or from providing an
enemy with an easy hold — they emphasised her figure as well. An effect she
claimed was coincidental. Sirius didn’t think so — duelling was a sport, after
all, and that meant spectators. Not that he minded. Although he hadn’t missed
that prior to the Battle of the Ministry, and the horrible losses her family
had suffered, she hadn’t been wearing these robes quite as often.
“Is there any news from Marcel?” he asked, pushing off the wall.
She shook her head, her smile fading. “The recent news ’as not been received
well at ’ome.”
well at ’ome.”
If he hadn’t come to know the Delacours well in their time at his home,
especially the witch in front of him, Sirius would have been surprised by how
the famous French élan seemed to vanish in the wake of Dumbledore’s death. As
it was, he knew better. “The Duc’s having trouble?”
especially the witch in front of him, Sirius would have been surprised by how
the famous French élan seemed to vanish in the wake of Dumbledore’s death. As
it was, he knew better. “The Duc’s having trouble?”
She nodded. “They are trying to use the opportunity to attack the Duc’s
‘apparent support for violent muggleborns following in Grindelwald’s
footsteps’. Dubois and ’er ilk. Fools,” she added with obvious disgust.
‘apparent support for violent muggleborns following in Grindelwald’s
footsteps’. Dubois and ’er ilk. Fools,” she added with obvious disgust.
She was looking lovely even with her face stuck in a frown. Sirius didn’t know
if it was her Veela beauty, or that French je ne sais quoi that was almost as
famous as their élan. He took a step forward and gathered her in his arms. The
smell of her long blonde hair, hanging loosely down to the small of her back,
was both familiar and enticing. “Your family’s sending help, though, right?”
if it was her Veela beauty, or that French je ne sais quoi that was almost as
famous as their élan. He took a step forward and gathered her in his arms. The
smell of her long blonde hair, hanging loosely down to the small of her back,
was both familiar and enticing. “Your family’s sending help, though, right?”
“Of course!” she answered, indignantly. ‘Our blood will be avenged.’ As he had
expected — the French were like that. In a lower voice, though, she added:
“But they’ll ’ave to be careful. Marcel cannot appear to defy the Duc. That
would force ’im to demonstrate that ’e ’as not lost control of ’is
supporters.”
expected — the French were like that. In a lower voice, though, she added:
“But they’ll ’ave to be careful. Marcel cannot appear to defy the Duc. That
would force ’im to demonstrate that ’e ’as not lost control of ’is
supporters.”
“Politics.” Sirius spat the word out.
“You are a politician, you’d know all about it.” Her tone was teasing, but he
knew what she meant. He had responsibilities. Duties. To Harry, of course. And
to Britain.
knew what she meant. He had responsibilities. Duties. To Harry, of course. And
to Britain.
“I’m also — and foremost — a brave and dashing wizard,” he retorted, pulling
his head back to meet her eyes with his best smirk. “And I’ve had a very long
day.”
his head back to meet her eyes with his best smirk. “And I’ve had a very long
day.”
“Oh?” Her smile grew more pronounced, more teasing. “You’re too exhausted for
anything but rest, then?”
anything but rest, then?”
That was a challenge to which Sirius had never — almost never — failed to
rise.
rise.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 28th, 1997**
Amelia Bones didn’t shake her head at the Daily Prophet’s headline article,
but her mouth formed a thin line as she read it. According to the article —
Skeeter was at it, again — Dumbledore had died fighting dozens of houngans to
save the victims of the Withering Curse in Britain, ‘taking them with him into
death’s embrace’. A load of drivel, she thought, that would fit much better in
The Quibbler. Which had brought out an ‘Albus Dumbledore Memorial Special
Issue’, and blamed the man’s death on a curse cast by Grindelwald in their
famous duel fifty years ago, which had been held at bay by phoenix tears until
now.
but her mouth formed a thin line as she read it. According to the article —
Skeeter was at it, again — Dumbledore had died fighting dozens of houngans to
save the victims of the Withering Curse in Britain, ‘taking them with him into
death’s embrace’. A load of drivel, she thought, that would fit much better in
The Quibbler. Which had brought out an ‘Albus Dumbledore Memorial Special
Issue’, and blamed the man’s death on a curse cast by Grindelwald in their
famous duel fifty years ago, which had been held at bay by phoenix tears until
now.
She sighed. More trouble for Britain. The Jamaican houngans had already sent a
complaint to the ICW. It wouldn’t go anywhere — apart from some sympathetic
North American wizard enclaves, they had no allies — but some other countries
might use the opportunity to put some pressure on Britain when Amelia’s
country was weakened. Payback for some of Dumbledore’s less popular policies
as Supreme Mugwump.
complaint to the ICW. It wouldn’t go anywhere — apart from some sympathetic
North American wizard enclaves, they had no allies — but some other countries
might use the opportunity to put some pressure on Britain when Amelia’s
country was weakened. Payback for some of Dumbledore’s less popular policies
as Supreme Mugwump.
“Madam Minister?” Her secretary’s voice coming through the mirror on her desk
interrupted her reading. “Auror Moody is here.”
interrupted her reading. “Auror Moody is here.”
“Send him in.”
“So, how’s it feel, being Minister?” the old Auror asked, in lieu of a
greeting.
greeting.
“It’s just like my old job, just with more stress,” she shot back. It wasn’t
quite true, of course. And his laughter told her he didn’t believe her.
quite true, of course. And his laughter told her he didn’t believe her.
“You wanted it.” He conjured a seat for himself and sat down, his artificial
eye spinning madly. “Why’d you send for me? I was about to whip some of our
better curse-fodder into shape. Make them more likely to hit the enemy with
their spells than their own feet.” He tapped his peg leg for emphasis.
eye spinning madly. “Why’d you send for me? I was about to whip some of our
better curse-fodder into shape. Make them more likely to hit the enemy with
their spells than their own feet.” He tapped his peg leg for emphasis.
“I’ve picked Dawlish as Head Auror.” She steeled herself for Moody’s reaction
— his opinion of that Auror was well-known. But Moody wouldn’t make a good
Head Auror. He was far too paranoid. And he had been Dumbledore’s friend.
— his opinion of that Auror was well-known. But Moody wouldn’t make a good
Head Auror. He was far too paranoid. And he had been Dumbledore’s friend.
“As expected. You don’t really have many decent choices left.” Moody snorted.
“At least he’s not one to rock the boat. Who’ll be your successor?
Thicknesse?”
“At least he’s not one to rock the boat. Who’ll be your successor?
Thicknesse?”
“Yes.” Amelia wasn’t certain what annoyed her more — that Moody hadn’t reacted
as she had expected, or that he had predicted her decisions so easily.
as she had expected, or that he had predicted her decisions so easily.
“Decent man. Useless in a fight, but he won’t screw up paperwork or hinder his
Aurors. That’s more than most of the Ministry employees.” Moody chuckled.
Aurors. That’s more than most of the Ministry employees.” Moody chuckled.
Amelia didn’t think that the current state of the Ministry was funny, and
didn’t react to the comment.
didn’t react to the comment.
“Was that all? Or did you want to pick my brain before the meeting with Black,
Potter and Granger?”
Potter and Granger?”
“Would you tell me anything?” She narrowed her eyes at him. The scarred Auror
had been an old friend of Dumbledore’s, and a member of the Order of the
Phoenix. Probably one of the leaders now, unless Amelia’s estimate of the
organisation’s strength was mistaken.
had been an old friend of Dumbledore’s, and a member of the Order of the
Phoenix. Probably one of the leaders now, unless Amelia’s estimate of the
organisation’s strength was mistaken.
“Of course I would. Don’t want you to make a fatal blunder, after all.”
Another wide and ugly grin appeared on Moody’s face.
Another wide and ugly grin appeared on Moody’s face.
Amelia wasn’t quite certain if he was trying to rile her up, or if he had
become even more abrasive and uncouth lately. Her long experience with him and
others in the Ministry allowed her not to show her annoyance, though. “Can we
beat the Dark Lord?”
become even more abrasive and uncouth lately. Her long experience with him and
others in the Ministry allowed her not to show her annoyance, though. “Can we
beat the Dark Lord?”
“Yes. Plans are in motion.”
Which meant that the Order was doing the planning. She would have to ask the
others, then. “Centred on the Boy-Who-Lived?” Dumbledore had showed far more
interest in Potter than would have been normal even for such a celebrity.
others, then. “Centred on the Boy-Who-Lived?” Dumbledore had showed far more
interest in Potter than would have been normal even for such a celebrity.
“Mh.” Moody grunted noncommittally.
“Can the Ministry trust them? All of them?”
“If you don’t act like the idiots who got us into this mess, yes.” The old
Auror leaned forward. “They don’t trust you, Bones. Granger’s been the most
wanted witch in Britain for months, and she hasn’t forgotten that. And Potter
and Black owe her their lives. If you try to play games, it’ll end badly. For
all of us. But mostly for you.”
Auror leaned forward. “They don’t trust you, Bones. Granger’s been the most
wanted witch in Britain for months, and she hasn’t forgotten that. And Potter
and Black owe her their lives. If you try to play games, it’ll end badly. For
all of us. But mostly for you.”
Granger had killed dozens of Aurors, Amelia thought. Not all of them, not even
the majority of them had been Death Eaters. And the attack on Malfoy Manor…
that muggleborn witch was a mass murderer! She controlled herself, though.
“Cornelius has made an alliance with the Muggleborn Resistance. We’re all
fighting the Dark Lord.”
the majority of them had been Death Eaters. And the attack on Malfoy Manor…
that muggleborn witch was a mass murderer! She controlled herself, though.
“Cornelius has made an alliance with the Muggleborn Resistance. We’re all
fighting the Dark Lord.”
“The Resistance will want a pardon, Bones. A full pardon. No ifs or buts or
clauses.”
clauses.”
“Carte blanche?” Legitimise their murders? Amelia pressed her lips together. A
country that sacrificed law and order to survive doomed itself. If she let the
Resistance — or the Order — run rampant, kill at will…
country that sacrificed law and order to survive doomed itself. If she let the
Resistance — or the Order — run rampant, kill at will…
“Call it what you want. We’re at war, and they’ll want assurances that you’ll
not stab them in the back once it’s over.”
not stab them in the back once it’s over.”
“You know how easily that would be abused. If they have nothing to fear from
the law, what will keep them from settling accounts with their wands?” That
was how the Death Eaters worked, Amelia thought.
the law, what will keep them from settling accounts with their wands?” That
was how the Death Eaters worked, Amelia thought.
“They don’t have much to fear from the law anyway. You haven’t been able to
catch them in months.” Moody scoffed.
catch them in months.” Moody scoffed.
“They’ve had help from Dumbledore. And his agents.” She stared at Moody.
“I was retired.” He shrugged, then twisted his scarred face into a grin. “But
I think you’d be making a mistake if you blame their successes on Dumbledore’s
meddling. They’re good. You don’t want to start a war with them. Not now, and
not later. There won’t be much left of the country if you do.”
I think you’d be making a mistake if you blame their successes on Dumbledore’s
meddling. They’re good. You don’t want to start a war with them. Not now, and
not later. There won’t be much left of the country if you do.”
“They will know that as well.” Two could play that game, Amelia thought. She
wouldn’t let the Ministry be pushed around either.
wouldn’t let the Ministry be pushed around either.
“But do you think they’ll care much?” Moody leaned forward, baring his teeth.
For a moment, his enchanted eye stopped rolling around and fixated on her. ‘It
takes a lot for people to take up wands. A lot of guts, a lot of stupidity
most often. Or a lot of desperation. You don’t want to push desperate people,
Bones. You should remember how desperate people react — you were an Auror
once.’ He stood up. “I’ll return to whipping the latest recruits into shape.”
For a moment, his enchanted eye stopped rolling around and fixated on her. ‘It
takes a lot for people to take up wands. A lot of guts, a lot of stupidity
most often. Or a lot of desperation. You don’t want to push desperate people,
Bones. You should remember how desperate people react — you were an Auror
once.’ He stood up. “I’ll return to whipping the latest recruits into shape.”
That dig hurt. But the rest of his words… Amelia nodded jerkily as he left her
office. Moody was a member of Dumbledore’s Order. Of course he’d say that.
Although he was correct about Granger’s ties to Potter and Black. And to the
Weasleys. As much as she hated to admit it, if push came to shove, and if the
Order sided with the Resistance, things would turn out even uglier than the
Battle of the Ministry.
office. Moody was a member of Dumbledore’s Order. Of course he’d say that.
Although he was correct about Granger’s ties to Potter and Black. And to the
Weasleys. As much as she hated to admit it, if push came to shove, and if the
Order sided with the Resistance, things would turn out even uglier than the
Battle of the Ministry.
But that didn’t have to happen. Black was the key. He was another of
Dumbledore’s men, but he was from an Old Family. The Blacks were proud — too
proud, at times. He knew the forms, and the customs. And he held a seat in the
Wizengamot. He had a lot to lose, should Britain descend into anarchy, like
several wizard enclaves in the New World had in the past. And Black had shown
that he knew his way around the Wizengamot, since his exoneration. He was also
Potter’s godfather, and as far as Amelia knew, they were very close. If she
could convince Black, Potter would likely follow. The Weasleys were numerous,
but poor — they were not part of the Old Families.
Dumbledore’s men, but he was from an Old Family. The Blacks were proud — too
proud, at times. He knew the forms, and the customs. And he held a seat in the
Wizengamot. He had a lot to lose, should Britain descend into anarchy, like
several wizard enclaves in the New World had in the past. And Black had shown
that he knew his way around the Wizengamot, since his exoneration. He was also
Potter’s godfather, and as far as Amelia knew, they were very close. If she
could convince Black, Potter would likely follow. The Weasleys were numerous,
but poor — they were not part of the Old Families.
If she could get Black to see reason, this whole problem could be solved.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, January 28th, 1997**
Harry Potter raised his eyebrows in surprise when he saw Hermione in the
entrance hall of Grimmauld Place. She was wearing her uniform — her fatigues.
entrance hall of Grimmauld Place. She was wearing her uniform — her fatigues.
She must have noticed his reaction, since she frowned at him. “What’s wrong?”
“I’d have expected you to wear something else,” he said. She looked like a
guerilla fighter. Which she was, he guessed.
guerilla fighter. Which she was, he guessed.
“Why? I’m not about to wear robes. I represent the Resistance. And the
purebloods wouldn’t be able to tell one style of muggle clothes from the
other.” With a grin, she added: “But every one of them knows this uniform. It
sends a message.”
purebloods wouldn’t be able to tell one style of muggle clothes from the
other.” With a grin, she added: “But every one of them knows this uniform. It
sends a message.”
Harry nodded. It would certainly be a not too subtle reminder that Hermione
and her friends were no pushovers. Quite the contrary.
and her friends were no pushovers. Quite the contrary.
She looked around.
“Ron’s gone ahead already,” Harry said, answering her question before she
could ask. ‘Scouting for an ambush, I think.’ He shrugged. “Even though his
dad, Percy, Tonks and Moody are in the Ministry as well.” Ron could have
waited for Hermione here.
could ask. ‘Scouting for an ambush, I think.’ He shrugged. “Even though his
dad, Percy, Tonks and Moody are in the Ministry as well.” Ron could have
waited for Hermione here.
“Another pair of eyes and a wand can’t hurt,” Hermione said.
“Indeed!” Sirius said loudly, appearing on top of the stairs. He was wearing
his best robes, though. “Can’t be too careful when dealing with politicians.
They’re worse than goblins — they’ll stab you in the back as soon as you turn
around.”
his best robes, though. “Can’t be too careful when dealing with politicians.
They’re worse than goblins — they’ll stab you in the back as soon as you turn
around.”
“Aren’t you a politician as well?” Harry asked.
“I’m just posing as one. Temporarily, until this mess is over.” Harry’s
godfather walked down the stairs.
godfather walked down the stairs.
“That could be a long while,” Harry said. Dumbledore’s message hadn’t sounded
too promising.
too promising.
“Yes.” Sirius coughed. “So… everyone’s on the same page with regards to our
goals?”
goals?”
“A full pardon for the Resistance covering the whole war, all the muggleborn
laws gone, all Death Eaters and their supporters tried and punished,” Hermione
started. ‘Those are just the short-term goals, of course. Wizarding Britain
needs far more than merely a change in government and a return to the status
quo. The idea that blood defines a wizard’s worth needs to disappear — and
that will necessitate far-reaching reforms. Too many laws have been passed
with that thought in mind, too much has been built upon that sick ideology.
The current Wizengamot is composed of hereditary seats, held by the Old
Families, and appointed seats — granted by the Minister for the duration of
his term. As long as that remains the case, as long as the Wizengamot is
controlled by rich, old pureblood families, we’ll always risk a resurgence of
the blood bigots.’ With a grin, she added: “I’m not telling the Minister that,
of course.”
laws gone, all Death Eaters and their supporters tried and punished,” Hermione
started. ‘Those are just the short-term goals, of course. Wizarding Britain
needs far more than merely a change in government and a return to the status
quo. The idea that blood defines a wizard’s worth needs to disappear — and
that will necessitate far-reaching reforms. Too many laws have been passed
with that thought in mind, too much has been built upon that sick ideology.
The current Wizengamot is composed of hereditary seats, held by the Old
Families, and appointed seats — granted by the Minister for the duration of
his term. As long as that remains the case, as long as the Wizengamot is
controlled by rich, old pureblood families, we’ll always risk a resurgence of
the blood bigots.’ With a grin, she added: “I’m not telling the Minister that,
of course.”
Sirius chuckled. “If you tell Bones that she’ll draw her wand on you. She’d
fear a revolution.”
fear a revolution.”
“If we can’t reform Wizarding Britain there will be a revolution,” Hermione
said. “Things cannot continue as they are. Not after this war. There’s too
much wrong with the country.”
said. “Things cannot continue as they are. Not after this war. There’s too
much wrong with the country.”
“Might need another war to change it,” Sirius said, almost casually.
“That’s what Dumbledore was afraid of,” Harry said. “Can Wizarding Britain
survive another war?” Or the current one, if it went on for much longer, he
added to himself.
survive another war?” Or the current one, if it went on for much longer, he
added to himself.
“Should it survive, if it can’t be reformed into a country that’s not a
corrupt cesspit of bigots and murderers?” Sirius scoffed. “I’d rather see the
Ministry burn, than let it go on like this.”
corrupt cesspit of bigots and murderers?” Sirius scoffed. “I’d rather see the
Ministry burn, than let it go on like this.”
When Harry saw the expression on his godfather’s face, he shivered. Sirius
certainly hadn’t forgotten who sent him to Azkaban. He glanced at Hermione,
but his friend simply nodded.
certainly hadn’t forgotten who sent him to Azkaban. He glanced at Hermione,
but his friend simply nodded.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 28th, 1997**
His brother’s office was a nice one, Ron Weasley thought, looking around. Much
bigger than Dad’s old office. Furnished better, too. Percy could be proud. Ron
hadn’t seen him that often since his brother had graduated from Hogwarts. It
wasn’t as if they had grown apart, well, there was the mess during the
Triwizard Tournament, but Ron couldn’t really cast hexes there, not with
himself having been a right stupid git for most of that year too. They hadn’t
grown apart, but their paths hadn’t crossed often. Just like with Charlie and
Bill.
bigger than Dad’s old office. Furnished better, too. Percy could be proud. Ron
hadn’t seen him that often since his brother had graduated from Hogwarts. It
wasn’t as if they had grown apart, well, there was the mess during the
Triwizard Tournament, but Ron couldn’t really cast hexes there, not with
himself having been a right stupid git for most of that year too. They hadn’t
grown apart, but their paths hadn’t crossed often. Just like with Charlie and
Bill.
“So… you’re now the Deputy-Head of the Department of Magical Transportation,”
Ron read from the small plaque on the door to Percy’s office.
Ron read from the small plaque on the door to Percy’s office.
His brother nodded. A year ago, he’d probably have straightened up and acted
all proud, like when he had received his Head Boy badge, Ron thought. Not any
more, though. “Yes,” Percy said. “I was the most qualified left, after the
battle. And the most trusted.”
all proud, like when he had received his Head Boy badge, Ron thought. Not any
more, though. “Yes,” Percy said. “I was the most qualified left, after the
battle. And the most trusted.”
Ron nodded. “You have access to the Floo Network then.” Which was very useful.
“Yes, I do. Although all manipulations are logged. Or should be.” With a wry
grin, he added: “Our workers are not always as diligent as they should be.”
grin, he added: “Our workers are not always as diligent as they should be.”
“As long as the enemy can’t sabotage it.”
“I’ve taken measures to prevent that.” Percy sat down behind his desk. “How
are things with Hermione?”
are things with Hermione?”
Ron tensed slightly. “Fine. As fine as they can be, in the middle of a war.”
Merlin’s balls, he sounded like Harry! “Have you heard anything about the
meeting later?”
Merlin’s balls, he sounded like Harry! “Have you heard anything about the
meeting later?”
“The meeting with the Minister?” Percy shuffled some parchment around.
“There’s a lot of speculation, but no bigger security effort than normal.”
“There’s a lot of speculation, but no bigger security effort than normal.”
That meant Percy hadn’t heard anything about an ambush.
“Some of the older employees are concerned, of course,” Percy went on. “Father
mentioned that during lunch yesterday. There aren’t that many left of the more
extreme ones, of course.”
mentioned that during lunch yesterday. There aren’t that many left of the more
extreme ones, of course.”
Ron sighed. “The muggleborns save their lives, and these purebloods still
don’t want them around. Damn wankers!”
don’t want them around. Damn wankers!”
Percy’s mouth formed a thin line and for a moment, Ron’s brother looked like
that time he had deducted points from Harry and Ron in their second year. “I
see that even your relationship with Hermione hasn’t influenced you to correct
your language. You might truly be hopeless.”
that time he had deducted points from Harry and Ron in their second year. “I
see that even your relationship with Hermione hasn’t influenced you to correct
your language. You might truly be hopeless.”
Ron chuckled. “I don’t curse when I’m with her, so I have to curse more when
we’re apart, to even it out.”
we’re apart, to even it out.”
Percy snorted. “Returning to the matter at hand, I do not think that those who
have concerns about Hermione’s goals would have suffered much under the Dark
Lord. They are the type to simply do as they are told, and close their eyes
when they see something disturbing.”
have concerns about Hermione’s goals would have suffered much under the Dark
Lord. They are the type to simply do as they are told, and close their eyes
when they see something disturbing.”
“Ah. No trouble then?” Ron knew that type.
“Not as far as I can see. Although I’m not a trained Auror, so I’m not that
well-versed in spotting spies.”
well-versed in spotting spies.”
“Well, as long as the Minister is not trying anything sinister…” Ron shrugged.
“I doubt that. Though it would be a good opportunity for the Dark Lord to
sabotage the alliance, if his spies could attack her and frame the Ministry.”
sabotage the alliance, if his spies could attack her and frame the Ministry.”
Ron cursed again. “Maybe I should be in the Atrium when they arrive.”
“Bones will have the Aurors and Hit-Wizards there vetted. She’s not dumb,”
Percy said.
Percy said.
“She’s not perfect either,” Ron shot back, already on his way out. “Thanks!”
he called over his shoulder.
he called over his shoulder.
He knew he couldn’t attend the meeting, but damned if he wouldn’t make every
effort to protect his friends. He wasn’t useless.
effort to protect his friends. He wasn’t useless.
---
When Hermione Granger entered the Ministry’s Atrium through the Floo Network,
she did her best to appear confident and unconcerned. It wouldn’t do to show
any weakness before such an important meeting. For all her faults, Bones
wasn’t stupid.
she did her best to appear confident and unconcerned. It wouldn’t do to show
any weakness before such an important meeting. For all her faults, Bones
wasn’t stupid.
Half a dozen Aurors and Hit-Wizards were present in the Atrium, and Hermione
tensed up slightly when she saw two of them stare at her a bit too intently.
She relaxed a bit when she spotted Ron in the background, and almost smiled at
him. Arthur Weasley was present as well, nearby.
tensed up slightly when she saw two of them stare at her a bit too intently.
She relaxed a bit when she spotted Ron in the background, and almost smiled at
him. Arthur Weasley was present as well, nearby.
“You’re drawing more attention than I do,” Harry whispered next to her.
She glanced at him and saw that he was grinning. She shook her head. There
were probably too many wizards and witches in the Ministry who had a guilty
conscience, or they’d focus on the Boy-Who-Lived as their best hope against
Voldemort.
were probably too many wizards and witches in the Ministry who had a guilty
conscience, or they’d focus on the Boy-Who-Lived as their best hope against
Voldemort.
To her surprise, no one tried to stop them for a quick chat before they
reached the lift. Five minutes later, they were in front of Bones’s office,
and the Minister’s nervous secretary waved them through.
reached the lift. Five minutes later, they were in front of Bones’s office,
and the Minister’s nervous secretary waved them through.
Bones wasn’t alone, of course. She was there with Dawlish and Thicknesse, Head
Auror and Head of the DMLE, respectively. It made the meeting look more like a
parlay than a gathering of allies — there was even a table with three seats on
each side.
Auror and Head of the DMLE, respectively. It made the meeting look more like a
parlay than a gathering of allies — there was even a table with three seats on
each side.
“Thank you for coming, Sirius, Mister Potter, Miss Granger. Please have a
seat,” Bones said, gesturing at the table. Conjured, Hermione thought, with
possibly an expansion charm to fit it in without the office appearing cramped.
seat,” Bones said, gesturing at the table. Conjured, Hermione thought, with
possibly an expansion charm to fit it in without the office appearing cramped.
Sirius took the seat in the middle, with Harry at his right side, and Hermione
on his left side. If Bones thought that their seating arrangements would tell
her anything about their group she would be mistaken.
on his left side. If Bones thought that their seating arrangements would tell
her anything about their group she would be mistaken.
“Thank you, Amelia.” Sirius smiled at the witch, all grace and politeness.
Bones presented her two underlings, and there was some polite exchanging of
greetings and even more polite refusing of refreshments. Hermione didn’t think
the Ministry would try to poison her, but better safe than sorry.
greetings and even more polite refusing of refreshments. Hermione didn’t think
the Ministry would try to poison her, but better safe than sorry.
“Well, let us get to the point of this meeting,” Bones started. ‘Since the
last meeting eleven days ago, the situation has changed a great deal. Where we
could be confident of our impending victory, we must now just hope that
Dumbledore’s last plan — whatever that is — will work before the Dark Lord
takes the Ministry. I assume,’ she added with a glance towards Harry, “that it
depends on the Boy-Who-Lived.”
last meeting eleven days ago, the situation has changed a great deal. Where we
could be confident of our impending victory, we must now just hope that
Dumbledore’s last plan — whatever that is — will work before the Dark Lord
takes the Ministry. I assume,’ she added with a glance towards Harry, “that it
depends on the Boy-Who-Lived.”
That hadn’t taken a lot to deduce, Hermione thought. Harry’s presence alone
confirmed it. It wasn’t as if it was a secret either — Voldemort knew that
Harry could sense him. The Dark Lord couldn’t be allowed to know the real
plan, though.
confirmed it. It wasn’t as if it was a secret either — Voldemort knew that
Harry could sense him. The Dark Lord couldn’t be allowed to know the real
plan, though.
Sirius smiled politely. “Harry has been instrumental in the war so far.”
Dawlish was about to say something, but a glance from Thicknesse shut him up.
Interesting, Hermione thought. She hadn’t heard good things about the new Head
Auror — he certainly hadn’t managed to make trouble for the Resistance in the
past, so she wondered why he had been promoted. Probably because he was the
one with the most time in the department, and a pureblood, she thought with no
small amount of cynicism.
Interesting, Hermione thought. She hadn’t heard good things about the new Head
Auror — he certainly hadn’t managed to make trouble for the Resistance in the
past, so she wondered why he had been promoted. Probably because he was the
one with the most time in the department, and a pureblood, she thought with no
small amount of cynicism.
“And you’re not going to tell us what the plan is,” Bones said with a
pronounced frown.
pronounced frown.
Sirius shrugged. “No offence, but the Ministry’s still riddled with spies. And
with Albus dead, a number of people will consider turning traitor to save
themselves.”
with Albus dead, a number of people will consider turning traitor to save
themselves.”
“We can keep a secret. We have done so in the war,” Dawlish said.
Harry snorted. He, like Hermione, had to be thinking about the spying
operation they had set up in Diagon Alley. Neither said anything about it,
though.
operation they had set up in Diagon Alley. Neither said anything about it,
though.
“Better safe than sorry,” Sirius said.
“We’re doing our best,” Harry threw in. “I’ve faced the Dark Lord a few times
already.”
already.”
“And the last time, Dumbledore had to save you,” Dawlish spat out. “He’s not
around any more.”
around any more.”
“That has been taken into account,” Hermione cut in. They had made plans. Ones
not as concrete as she’d have liked, but they were preparing to face
Voldemort.
not as concrete as she’d have liked, but they were preparing to face
Voldemort.
“In any case, you can’t deal with the Dark Lord, and you know it, so just let
us handle him,” Sirius said with a not-quite-smirk. “There are plenty of his
followers still around for you to face. Recruiting will be easier for him with
Albus dead.”
us handle him,” Sirius said with a not-quite-smirk. “There are plenty of his
followers still around for you to face. Recruiting will be easier for him with
Albus dead.”
Thicknesse winced at that. “Our own recruitment efforts have suffered in the
last few days.”
last few days.”
“The cowards are reconsidering their decisions,” Sirius said. “The Order and
our French friends are ready, though, and won’t falter.”
our French friends are ready, though, and won’t falter.”
“We’ve recovered as well, and we’re ready for battle,” Hermione said. It was
technically true. “But we have concerns which need to be addressed first,
before we can deploy. Both the Minister and the Chief Warlock, who have been
the driving forces behind the recent alliance between the Ministry and the
Muggleborn Resistance, have been killed. While the muggleborn laws have been
repealed already, there are certain fears that you might not uphold their
other promises.”
technically true. “But we have concerns which need to be addressed first,
before we can deploy. Both the Minister and the Chief Warlock, who have been
the driving forces behind the recent alliance between the Ministry and the
Muggleborn Resistance, have been killed. While the muggleborn laws have been
repealed already, there are certain fears that you might not uphold their
other promises.”
Bones didn’t show much of a reaction. “I’m aware that a pardon for past crimes
has been promised.”
has been promised.”
“A pardon covering any action during the war,” Hermione corrected her. “From
the day the Dark Lord returned to the day the war ends.”
the day the Dark Lord returned to the day the war ends.”
Bones’s face seemed to freeze up. “Impossible. That would give you carte
blanche. You could commit any crime without repercussion.”
blanche. You could commit any crime without repercussion.”
“No. We would still police ourselves,” Hermione said. “Just like muggle
military forces do.” Which had far more than a dozen members, of course.
military forces do.” Which had far more than a dozen members, of course.
Bones seemed to be aware of that, judging by how she scoffed. “Miss Granger,
the Ministry is the lawful government of Wizarding Britain. We’re not a secret
organisation created by private citizens. We represent our country.”
the Ministry is the lawful government of Wizarding Britain. We’re not a secret
organisation created by private citizens. We represent our country.”
“After our experiences with your law enforcement practices, we will not grant
you any jurisdiction over us. Not during the war, at least,” Hermione shot
back. “As a courtesy, we can inform you should a case concern you. But unless
we have a full pardon as promised, there will not be any alliance.”
you any jurisdiction over us. Not during the war, at least,” Hermione shot
back. “As a courtesy, we can inform you should a case concern you. But unless
we have a full pardon as promised, there will not be any alliance.”
“I have to agree with Hermione. The Order and our French friends needs the
same reassurances as the Resistance.” Sirius smiled widely and leaned forward.
“My personal experiences after the last war have taught me not to trust the
Ministry when it comes to justice.”
same reassurances as the Resistance.” Sirius smiled widely and leaned forward.
“My personal experiences after the last war have taught me not to trust the
Ministry when it comes to justice.”
Bones, who had a reputation as a stone-cold witch, actually hissed, while
Dawlish growled. Thicknesse, though, simply nodded.
Dawlish growled. Thicknesse, though, simply nodded.
“Nor do we trust the Wizengamot when it comes to trying Death Eaters. The
track record of our esteemed parliament is abysmal,” Harry’s godfather added.
track record of our esteemed parliament is abysmal,” Harry’s godfather added.
“Your want to be untouchable and demand to judge others? That would undermine
our entire judicial system!” Bones was leaning forward as well. “No one is
above the law!”
our entire judicial system!” Bones was leaning forward as well. “No one is
above the law!”
“We don’t trust the law,” Hermione said. “Not any more.”
“If the law doesn’t apply to you, then you might as well take over the
country,” Bones said.
country,” Bones said.
That wouldn’t be a bad idea, Hermione thought. She held her tongue, though.
“I can’t see myself and my friends fighting Voldemort effectively if we are
worried that we’ll be punished for what we had to do afterwards,” Harry said.
worried that we’ll be punished for what we had to do afterwards,” Harry said.
“No Auror has a problem with fighting the Death Eaters without breaking the
law,” Dawlish said.
law,” Dawlish said.
“Your muggleborn Aurors might have. Oh, wait — you fired all of them a year
ago.” Harry snorted.
ago.” Harry snorted.
“It’s quite simple, Amelia.” Sirius shook his head. “You need us more than we
need you. If you want this alliance to work, you need to trust us to police
ourselves. The Ministry and the Wizengamot have done too much harm to us to
let us trust them.”
need you. If you want this alliance to work, you need to trust us to police
ourselves. The Ministry and the Wizengamot have done too much harm to us to
let us trust them.”
“Will you grant the Aurors the same protection?” Thicknesse asked.
“For actions taken against Death Eaters, yes. Not for actions taken against
muggleborns,” Hermione said. The Resistance would not let those murderers
walk.
muggleborns,” Hermione said. The Resistance would not let those murderers
walk.
“They have acted in accordance with duly passed laws,” Bones said. “They
cannot be punished for doing their lawful duty.”
cannot be punished for doing their lawful duty.”
“Leaving aside the validity of such laws, Aurors and Hit-Wizards who have
abused even those laws can and will be punished.” Hermione stared at Bones.
“How many muggleborns were killed while resisting arrest? Compared to how many
purebloods?”
abused even those laws can and will be punished.” Hermione stared at Bones.
“How many muggleborns were killed while resisting arrest? Compared to how many
purebloods?”
Bones frowned; the Minister obviously knew what her employees had done.
“We want justice. Real justice, not some corrupt play by the Wizengamot where
murderers are let go because they are related to half the members!” Hermione
said. Her voice had grown louder, and she forced herself to stop.
murderers are let go because they are related to half the members!” Hermione
said. Her voice had grown louder, and she forced herself to stop.
“Many Death Eaters were sentenced after the last war, despite their blood
ties,” Thicknesse said calmly.
ties,” Thicknesse said calmly.
“The fanatics who loudly proclaimed their allegiance were judged,” Sirius
said. ‘But their helpers? And those ‘imperiused victims’?’ He scoffed. “We’ve
seen how that works when the Greengrass girl tried to kill students at
Hogwarts.”
said. ‘But their helpers? And those ‘imperiused victims’?’ He scoffed. “We’ve
seen how that works when the Greengrass girl tried to kill students at
Hogwarts.”
Bones hadn’t an answer to that, Hermione noticed. Frowning, the older witch
pressed out: “Who decides when the war is over?”
pressed out: “Who decides when the war is over?”
Hermione suppressed a smile. They were arguing over the details now. That
meant they had already succeeded.
meant they had already succeeded.
---
**Outside Stamford, Lincolnshire, Britain, January 28th, 1997**
The Dark Lord Voldemort frowned, going over the numbers again. While
recruitment was starting to pick up, he was still far from having replaced his
losses. He wanted to storm the Ministry, but until he had sufficient numbers
to take it over and keep it going, that would not do him much good in the long
run.
recruitment was starting to pick up, he was still far from having replaced his
losses. He wanted to storm the Ministry, but until he had sufficient numbers
to take it over and keep it going, that would not do him much good in the long
run.
And yet he couldn’t let this opportunity to cow Wizarding Britain pass. After
the death of his greatest foe, the sheep would be frozen with terror. Another
demonstration of his power should be enough to teach them not to resist, and
lead to the isolation of his remaining enemies.
the death of his greatest foe, the sheep would be frozen with terror. Another
demonstration of his power should be enough to teach them not to resist, and
lead to the isolation of his remaining enemies.
He leaned back. Even so, he needed more people. More competent people.
Rodolphus and Rabastan had returned from abroad, and they would show no mercy
to the murderers of Bellatrix. But Travers, Macnair, Rosier and Mulciber had
died in the Ministry, and Flint in Hogsmeade. Rookwood was still busy with
research — though he hadn’t produced any results so far — and Dolohov was on
the continent, recruiting. As were Pettigrew and Yaxley.
Rodolphus and Rabastan had returned from abroad, and they would show no mercy
to the murderers of Bellatrix. But Travers, Macnair, Rosier and Mulciber had
died in the Ministry, and Flint in Hogsmeade. Rookwood was still busy with
research — though he hadn’t produced any results so far — and Dolohov was on
the continent, recruiting. As were Pettigrew and Yaxley.
He needed at least a dozen to make a good showing. That would take a few days.
Time enough for his spies to scout Diagon Alley.
Time enough for his spies to scout Diagon Alley.
Chapter 39: Reflections
=======================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox, fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved
the story a lot.
the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 39: Reflections**
*’In any other war, the death of Albus Dumbledore would have marked the end of
the conflict. That had been the case in both Grindelwald’s War and the First
Blood War — without their leaders, neither Grindelwald’s armies nor the Dark
Lord’s followers were able to oppose Dumbledore any longer, and accordingly,
the vast majority of them fled or surrendered. In both conflicts, only a
handful of fanatical wizards and witches kept fighting. And, as one would
expect, they were swiftly defeated.*
the conflict. That had been the case in both Grindelwald’s War and the First
Blood War — without their leaders, neither Grindelwald’s armies nor the Dark
Lord’s followers were able to oppose Dumbledore any longer, and accordingly,
the vast majority of them fled or surrendered. In both conflicts, only a
handful of fanatical wizards and witches kept fighting. And, as one would
expect, they were swiftly defeated.*
*In the Second Blood War, however, the Ministry leadership did not even
contemplate surrendering or exile. Even though their situation should have
appeared objectively hopeless, they fought on.*
contemplate surrendering or exile. Even though their situation should have
appeared objectively hopeless, they fought on.*
*Why would they choose such a seemingly suicidal course of action? Some might
have put their trust into Harry Potter, the famous Boy-Who-Lived. He had
survived the Dark Lord’s Killing Curse as a mere toddler, and he had been
Dumbledore’s protege. Though while he had already shown quite remarkable
talents for his age, most notably in the Triwizard Tournament, he certainly
was no equal of Dumbledore or the Dark Lord. The Muggleborn Resistance had
suffered critical losses, as had the Order of the Phoenix, and neither could
stand up to the Dark Lord in open battle or match his guile. But they did not
give up either.*
have put their trust into Harry Potter, the famous Boy-Who-Lived. He had
survived the Dark Lord’s Killing Curse as a mere toddler, and he had been
Dumbledore’s protege. Though while he had already shown quite remarkable
talents for his age, most notably in the Triwizard Tournament, he certainly
was no equal of Dumbledore or the Dark Lord. The Muggleborn Resistance had
suffered critical losses, as had the Order of the Phoenix, and neither could
stand up to the Dark Lord in open battle or match his guile. But they did not
give up either.*
*In my opinion, this shows that all factions of the Second Blood War had
become so fanatical during the conflict that they preferred death to defeat
and would keep fighting even when there was but a faint hope of victory.’*
become so fanatical during the conflict that they preferred death to defeat
and would keep fighting even when there was but a faint hope of victory.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, January 28th, 1997**
Harry Potter sighed with relief as soon as he, Sirius and Hermione entered
Grimmauld Place. He hadn’t really thought that the Ministry would try to
ambush them on the way out, or that Death Eaters would manage to infiltrate
the Ministry, but the meeting had certainly become quite tense at the end…
Grimmauld Place. He hadn’t really thought that the Ministry would try to
ambush them on the way out, or that Death Eaters would manage to infiltrate
the Ministry, but the meeting had certainly become quite tense at the end…
“Did you see her face at the end? As if she had eaten a basket full of
lemons!” Sirius chuckled while he cast a few quick cleaning charms on the
group.
lemons!” Sirius chuckled while he cast a few quick cleaning charms on the
group.
His godfather was taking this a bit too lightly, Harry thought. “That’s not a
good thing,” he said. “She seemed to really hate our demands.”
good thing,” he said. “She seemed to really hate our demands.”
Sirius scoffed. “It’s all about power and control with her. She is obsessed
with it. In her eyes the idea that we wouldn’t submit to the DMLE and let her
judge us is almost as bad as Voldemort taking over.” He stepped forward and
opened the door to the hallway with a flick of his wand.
with it. In her eyes the idea that we wouldn’t submit to the DMLE and let her
judge us is almost as bad as Voldemort taking over.” He stepped forward and
opened the door to the hallway with a flick of his wand.
“The Minister’s focusing on the rule of law,” Hermione said, hesitating for a
moment when Sirius bowed slightly in a ‘ladies first’ gesture. ‘She isn’t
completely wrong, actually. Vigilante organisations and paramilitary groups
are generally not a good thing for a country. And no one should be above the
law.’ She shook her head and ran a hand through her short hair as she stepped
through the door. “But if the law was passed by a fascist government catering
to mass-murdering bigots… The legal basis of Wizarding Britain is just one
step removed from ‘might makes right’.”
moment when Sirius bowed slightly in a ‘ladies first’ gesture. ‘She isn’t
completely wrong, actually. Vigilante organisations and paramilitary groups
are generally not a good thing for a country. And no one should be above the
law.’ She shook her head and ran a hand through her short hair as she stepped
through the door. “But if the law was passed by a fascist government catering
to mass-murdering bigots… The legal basis of Wizarding Britain is just one
step removed from ‘might makes right’.”
“If Amelia didn’t know for certain that, without us, Voldemort would kill her
and her family, and take over her precious Ministry, she’d never have accepted
our terms.” Sirius muttered a curse under his breath Harry didn’t catch as
both followed Hermione. “If only she had shown such dedication to upholding
the law when I was unjustly imprisoned without a trial!”
and her family, and take over her precious Ministry, she’d never have accepted
our terms.” Sirius muttered a curse under his breath Harry didn’t catch as
both followed Hermione. “If only she had shown such dedication to upholding
the law when I was unjustly imprisoned without a trial!”
Harry was a bit concerned how quickly Sirius had switched from chuckling to
scowling. But then, all of them were suffering from a great deal of stress.
Himself as well, he thought.
scowling. But then, all of them were suffering from a great deal of stress.
Himself as well, he thought.
“Was that actually illegal?” Hermione asked. When Harry and Sirius stared at
her, she winced. “I meant, didn’t they pass a law that made it possible to
hold people without trial?”
her, she winced. “I meant, didn’t they pass a law that made it possible to
hold people without trial?”
“Not for so long after the war,” Sirius said. “But no one really cared. I was
just another Death Eater in Azkaban.” He clenched his jaw and stared ahead —
no, at the wall, Harry realised.
just another Death Eater in Azkaban.” He clenched his jaw and stared ahead —
no, at the wall, Harry realised.
“Cherie?”
Sirius’s face broke out in a wide smile. “Vivienne!” He stepped forward and
embraced the Veela, almost sweeping her off her feet.
embraced the Veela, almost sweeping her off her feet.
“’Ow did the meeting go?” the French witch asked when Sirius released her.
“Bones had to give in. But she really didn’t want to.” Sirius grinned. “The
Ministry, depending on muggleborns and vigilantes! She’s probably drinking a
Calming Draught right now.”
Ministry, depending on muggleborns and vigilantes! She’s probably drinking a
Calming Draught right now.”
“There’ll be trouble after the war,” Hermione said.
“We already knew that.” Harry’s godfather made a dismissive gesture with his
hand. The one that was not holding onto Vivienne’s waist. “She’ll oppose our
plans every step of the way. But if we can deal with Voldemort, then we can
deal with her easily.”
hand. The one that was not holding onto Vivienne’s waist. “She’ll oppose our
plans every step of the way. But if we can deal with Voldemort, then we can
deal with her easily.”
Harry exchanged a glance with Hermione. He wasn’t quite that optimistic. And,
as far as he could tell, neither was she.
as far as he could tell, neither was she.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 28th, 1997**
Ron Weasley saw his friends leave the Ministry, and let out a breath he hadn’t
realised he was holding. They had made it out safely without incident.
realised he was holding. They had made it out safely without incident.
“You can relax now.”
His dad’s comment made him flinch. “Was it that obvious?” he asked in a low
voice. He had cast a privacy charm, but some habits were hard to break — Moody
had drilled into Harry and him that all it took was one Supersensory Charm,
and an enemy could listen from afar.
voice. He had cast a privacy charm, but some habits were hard to break — Moody
had drilled into Harry and him that all it took was one Supersensory Charm,
and an enemy could listen from afar.
“No. But I know you.” His dad smiled and put a hand on Ron’s shoulder. “And
it’s good to see that you haven’t changed that much.”
it’s good to see that you haven’t changed that much.”
Ron was confused. “What do you mean?”
His dad sighed. “You’ve changed. All of you have changed. You’re not just
growing up, you’re fighting in a war.”
growing up, you’re fighting in a war.”
Ron stiffened. “Is this about the Death Eaters I killed?” He hadn’t had a
choice. They had been trying to kill him, and Harry, and would have killed
anyone else Voldemort wanted dead. Like Hermione, or Ron’s family.
choice. They had been trying to kill him, and Harry, and would have killed
anyone else Voldemort wanted dead. Like Hermione, or Ron’s family.
“In part only.” Ron’s dad closed his eyes for a second. “I know that people
change in a war. And not just because they kill.”
change in a war. And not just because they kill.”
Ron nodded. His family had fought in the last war. Gryffindors to the core.
Mum’s brothers had been killed in the last year of the war, as members of the
Order.
Mum’s brothers had been killed in the last year of the war, as members of the
Order.
“If you know you could die in the next battle, it makes you look at things
differently. You gain a new perspective. You tend to live more passionately, a
friend once put it. Things you considered very important suddenly seem
frivolous.” His dad pulled his hand away from Ron’s shoulder. “It’s partially
why you’re here, today.”
differently. You gain a new perspective. You tend to live more passionately, a
friend once put it. Things you considered very important suddenly seem
frivolous.” His dad pulled his hand away from Ron’s shoulder. “It’s partially
why you’re here, today.”
“Huh?” Ron was confused again. What would have been more important than his
friends’ safety?
friends’ safety?
“Hogwarts has strict rules. You’re not even allowed to visit Hogsmeade until
your third year. Outside family emergencies, you don’t leave the school
outside Hogsmeade weekends and vacations.”
your third year. Outside family emergencies, you don’t leave the school
outside Hogsmeade weekends and vacations.”
Ron blinked. That was true, but he had been so used to leaving with
Dumbledore’s blessing that… “Ah.”
Dumbledore’s blessing that… “Ah.”
“Even if the war was over, do you think you’d easily adjust to being confined
to Hogwarts again?” His dad chuckled when Ron winced. “You’re not the only
one. Your friends too. And Ginny, of course.”
to Hogwarts again?” His dad chuckled when Ron winced. “You’re not the only
one. Your friends too. And Ginny, of course.”
“She’s been sneaking out?” Ron asked. That was dangerous, she… he clenched his
teeth together.
teeth together.
“I hope not. But I bet she will, if she thinks it’s important.” He sighed.
“Molly hates it. And she hates even more that we cannot protect you. I do as
well, of course, but I can handle it better. Molly… her two brothers were
killed in the last war. To know you and your brothers are fighting is…” He
trailed off.
“Molly hates it. And she hates even more that we cannot protect you. I do as
well, of course, but I can handle it better. Molly… her two brothers were
killed in the last war. To know you and your brothers are fighting is…” He
trailed off.
Ron felt guilty for putting his mum through this, but some things were more
important. He was needed. He opened his mouth, but his dad held his hand up.
important. He was needed. He opened his mouth, but his dad held his hand up.
“I know, and your mother knows it as well. That doesn’t mean we don’t hate it.
But we understand.” He sighed again. “I just wish we had done a better job in
the last war, so this wouldn’t have happened.”
But we understand.” He sighed again. “I just wish we had done a better job in
the last war, so this wouldn’t have happened.”
“Not even Dumbledore managed it, dad,” Ron said.
“Yes. So, how are we supposed to achieve that this time?”
Ron didn’t know, but he trusted his friends. “We’ll manage.” He looked at the
lift where his friends had left.
lift where his friends had left.
His dad chuckled. “Go. I know they’re waiting for you.”
Ron nodded, and left.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, January 28th, 1997**
“Ron!” Hermione Granger jumped up from her seat when her boyfriend entered the
library in Grimmauld Place. She quickly crossed the space to where he was
closing the door and embraced him. She heard Harry chuckling behind her,
probably because she was doing exactly what Sirius had done before, but didn’t
care.
library in Grimmauld Place. She quickly crossed the space to where he was
closing the door and embraced him. She heard Harry chuckling behind her,
probably because she was doing exactly what Sirius had done before, but didn’t
care.
“I wasn’t the one in danger,” Ron said, wrapping his arms around her.
She didn’t answer that. She simply enjoyed his embrace for a moment. Or a few
moments.
moments.
Then they pulled apart again.
“So… how did the meeting go?”
“Bones accepted our demands, but she wasn’t happy. Not at all,” Harry said,
standing up to greet Ron himself.
standing up to greet Ron himself.
“As expected, then.”
“More or less. She’ll be trouble once Voldemort is dead,” Hermione said. She
tried to sound as matter-of-fact about that event as possible. Harry still
winced, as she saw with a glance. “How are things?” she said, turning to her
friend.
tried to sound as matter-of-fact about that event as possible. Harry still
winced, as she saw with a glance. “How are things?” she said, turning to her
friend.
“He’s got the Legilimency down,” Ron said before Harry could answer. “His new
wand works great. Even got through my Shield Charm.”
wand works great. Even got through my Shield Charm.”
Harry winced again. “I can’t really test it on anyone close to Voldemort’s
skill, though. Dumbledore said that Tom’s mastered Occlumency and Legilimency,
but that my link to him would negate that. Somewhat at least.”
skill, though. Dumbledore said that Tom’s mastered Occlumency and Legilimency,
but that my link to him would negate that. Somewhat at least.”
So, they were counting on the Elder Wand to make up the difference. Hermione
nodded. As with the meeting, it was what she had expected. It was better than
expected, actually.
nodded. As with the meeting, it was what she had expected. It was better than
expected, actually.
“I have an idea for the actual fighting too, but… I couldn’t test it.
Dumbledore said it was too dangerous.” Harry sat down again and stared at the
next shelf.
Dumbledore said it was too dangerous.” Harry sat down again and stared at the
next shelf.
That wasn’t a good sign, Hermione thought. She glanced at Ron, but her
boyfriend was staring at Harry. So, their friend hadn’t told him either. And
knowing how many risks Harry took in that stupid game, and if the Headmaster
had said it was too dangerous… she took a deep breath. She didn’t like prying,
or pushing — at least she had tried not to do either as much as she used to —
but this was too important. “What are you planning, Harry?” she asked.
boyfriend was staring at Harry. So, their friend hadn’t told him either. And
knowing how many risks Harry took in that stupid game, and if the Headmaster
had said it was too dangerous… she took a deep breath. She didn’t like prying,
or pushing — at least she had tried not to do either as much as she used to —
but this was too important. “What are you planning, Harry?” she asked.
“Well… it’s basically a fight between our two minds. Or wills.” Harry slowly
turned his head to look at them. “So… I remembered a similar situation.” He
grinned, though weakly, and told them.
turned his head to look at them. “So… I remembered a similar situation.” He
grinned, though weakly, and told them.
Hermione blinked. It was dangerous. And unprecedented. She wasn’t certain if
it would even work. But if it did… She sighed and nodded. “It would be a good
last resort.” Better to risk it, than dying.
it would even work. But if it did… She sighed and nodded. “It would be a good
last resort.” Better to risk it, than dying.
Harry’s grin turned a bit more wry. He had to know that already.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 28th, 1997**
Amelia Bones was livid. The nerve of those… those… impudent upstarts! She
clenched her teeth together and did her best to keep her anger from turning
into rage — or showing on her face. To grant such criminals a full pardon was
bad enough, but carte blanche for the rest of the war? She felt as if she had
betrayed everything the Ministry stood for. And Black! Acting as if he was a
muggleborn upstart himself, instead of the head of one of the oldest families
in Britain!
clenched her teeth together and did her best to keep her anger from turning
into rage — or showing on her face. To grant such criminals a full pardon was
bad enough, but carte blanche for the rest of the war? She felt as if she had
betrayed everything the Ministry stood for. And Black! Acting as if he was a
muggleborn upstart himself, instead of the head of one of the oldest families
in Britain!
Dawlish was not as restrained. “Those cursed…” he caught himself before he
used Death Eater vocabulary. “How dare they treat the Ministry like this!
Dictating terms as if they were anything but a bunch of…”
used Death Eater vocabulary. “How dare they treat the Ministry like this!
Dictating terms as if they were anything but a bunch of…”
“We had no choice. We need their help, and they know that,” Thicknesse said,
in his usual measured manner. ‘As much as it pains me to admit it, we cannot
hope to resist the Dark Lord by ourselves.’ He frowned. “Though the
consequences of this agreement could be dire.”
in his usual measured manner. ‘As much as it pains me to admit it, we cannot
hope to resist the Dark Lord by ourselves.’ He frowned. “Though the
consequences of this agreement could be dire.”
Dawlish shook his head. “We don’t even know what that apparent plan of
Dumbledore’s is. Only that it involves the Boy-Who-Lived.” He sneered. “The
same boy who had to be saved from the Dark Lord by Dumbledore in Hogsmeade.”
Dumbledore’s is. Only that it involves the Boy-Who-Lived.” He sneered. “The
same boy who had to be saved from the Dark Lord by Dumbledore in Hogsmeade.”
Thicknesse spread his hands. “It’s not as if we have alternatives at our
disposal. They did seem confident, though. Confident enough to pressure us
like they did. They must know that if they fail, such arrogance will come back
to bite them.”
disposal. They did seem confident, though. Confident enough to pressure us
like they did. They must know that if they fail, such arrogance will come back
to bite them.”
Amelia nodded. It was vexing enough to have to accede to such demands, but if
Black and the muggleborns failed to deliver…
Black and the muggleborns failed to deliver…
“The muggleborns might simply use a bomb on the Dark Lord,” Dawlish said.
“Blow up the Ministry or Diagon Alley with him.”
“Blow up the Ministry or Diagon Alley with him.”
Amelia shook her head. “That is unlikely.” She saw both wizards seemed to be
sceptical, though Thicknesse was hiding it better, and elaborated. “They used
one bomb in Knockturn Alley, but it was a rather weak one. They did not use
more powerful bombs on Diagon Alley or the Ministry.”
sceptical, though Thicknesse was hiding it better, and elaborated. “They used
one bomb in Knockturn Alley, but it was a rather weak one. They did not use
more powerful bombs on Diagon Alley or the Ministry.”
“They might simply not have wished to harm muggles,” Thicknesse said, “or they
did not want to risk breaking the Statute of Secrecy.”
did not want to risk breaking the Statute of Secrecy.”
Amelia nodded. The Resistance had not cared about innocent bystanders when
they attacked Malfoy Manor, but those had been wizards, not muggles, and the
muggleborns hadn’t risked the Statute. So far. “But even if the Dark Lord
might be a tempting enough target for them to change their modus operandi, he
is aware of bombs. Granger is not stupid, she’ll know that he’ll be ready for
such an attack.” That would, hopefully, curb such attempts.
they attacked Malfoy Manor, but those had been wizards, not muggles, and the
muggleborns hadn’t risked the Statute. So far. “But even if the Dark Lord
might be a tempting enough target for them to change their modus operandi, he
is aware of bombs. Granger is not stupid, she’ll know that he’ll be ready for
such an attack.” That would, hopefully, curb such attempts.
Dawlish was still scowling.
Thicknesse sighed — whether at their situation, or at Dawlish, Amelia couldn’t
tell. “While the Dark Lord’s defeat is of the utmost importance, it would be
better, I think, if it came about at the hands of the Boy-Who-lived, and not
through muggleborn means.”
tell. “While the Dark Lord’s defeat is of the utmost importance, it would be
better, I think, if it came about at the hands of the Boy-Who-lived, and not
through muggleborn means.”
Amelia nodded. The wizard was correct. If the muggleborns defeated the Dark
Lord, they’d be impossible to handle afterwards. Were that to occur, the
Ministry simply wouldn’t stand up to them. Potter, though, while not ideal by
any means, should be easier to handle. Not much easier, sadly — he seemed
quite attached to Granger, even though she had apparently dumped him for his
best friend. Amelia almost snorted — who’d have thought that she’d consider
the teenage rumours her niece was passing along in her letters when deciding
the future policies of the Ministry!
Lord, they’d be impossible to handle afterwards. Were that to occur, the
Ministry simply wouldn’t stand up to them. Potter, though, while not ideal by
any means, should be easier to handle. Not much easier, sadly — he seemed
quite attached to Granger, even though she had apparently dumped him for his
best friend. Amelia almost snorted — who’d have thought that she’d consider
the teenage rumours her niece was passing along in her letters when deciding
the future policies of the Ministry!
Her mirth was short-lived, of course — the threat of the Dark Lord, and of the
muggleborns’ arrogance, made certain of that. And Black. “Marginally better,
at most. Black is Potter’s godfather, and he’ll be as willing to use the boy’s
reputation as Dumbledore was.” And given Black’s apparent radical notions,
that would be trouble. But there were other, more urgent concerns. “We’ll
focus on shoring up our defences. We’ll protect Diagon Alley and the Ministry.
Let Dumbledore’s Order and the muggleborns take the fight to the Dark Lord.”
It would serve them right to bear the brunt of the fighting, after they
threatened to watch the Ministry fall without doing anything. And with some
luck, a few of her problems might even get solved in the fighting.
muggleborns’ arrogance, made certain of that. And Black. “Marginally better,
at most. Black is Potter’s godfather, and he’ll be as willing to use the boy’s
reputation as Dumbledore was.” And given Black’s apparent radical notions,
that would be trouble. But there were other, more urgent concerns. “We’ll
focus on shoring up our defences. We’ll protect Diagon Alley and the Ministry.
Let Dumbledore’s Order and the muggleborns take the fight to the Dark Lord.”
It would serve them right to bear the brunt of the fighting, after they
threatened to watch the Ministry fall without doing anything. And with some
luck, a few of her problems might even get solved in the fighting.
Dawlish grinned — he knew what she was thinking.
Thicknesse nodded, but spoke up: “Our nominal allies might not take it well if
we’re not doing anything in the war.”
we’re not doing anything in the war.”
The Head Auror scoffed. “They got what they wanted, so they’ll have to fight
now — or renege on the deal.”
now — or renege on the deal.”
“We’ll offer them something to placate them,” Amelia said.
What she had in mind would both show the Order and the muggleborns that the
Ministry was dedicated to the war against the Dark Lord, and shore up the
morale of her forces — and it would keep Black busy as well.
Ministry was dedicated to the war against the Dark Lord, and shore up the
morale of her forces — and it would keep Black busy as well.
Granger and her friends might have won a victory today, but Amelia wouldn’t
give up. She’d uphold the law against any criminal — even against the Dark
Lord, or the muggleborns.
give up. She’d uphold the law against any criminal — even against the Dark
Lord, or the muggleborns.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, January 29th, 1997**
Sirius Black rubbed the bridge of his nose while his two guests glared at each
other. At least their wands had been lowered. Lowered, not stashed — ready to
be raised at a moment’s notice. He mentally cursed Dumbledore for not warning
him about this. Or rather, for not making it crystal clear that when the
Headmaster had talked about ‘old grudges’ he had meant something akin to a
blood feud between Aberforth Dumbledore and Mad-Eye.
other. At least their wands had been lowered. Lowered, not stashed — ready to
be raised at a moment’s notice. He mentally cursed Dumbledore for not warning
him about this. Or rather, for not making it crystal clear that when the
Headmaster had talked about ‘old grudges’ he had meant something akin to a
blood feud between Aberforth Dumbledore and Mad-Eye.
Sirius cleared his throat, and tried not to flinch when Moody’s wand flicked
up to point at him. “We’re here to discuss how to handle the war against the
Dark Lord, not to settle old grudges.” If Remus were here, he’d be be
chuckling at the irony of Sirius saying this, he thought. “We need to work
together to win this war.”
up to point at him. “We’re here to discuss how to handle the war against the
Dark Lord, not to settle old grudges.” If Remus were here, he’d be be
chuckling at the irony of Sirius saying this, he thought. “We need to work
together to win this war.”
“With him and his criminals? Fletcher’s bad enough, but his sort?” Moody
scoffed, and his face contorted into a grimace. “They’ll sell us out as soon
as they get the chance.”
scoffed, and his face contorted into a grimace. “They’ll sell us out as soon
as they get the chance.”
“Says the Ministry’s enforcer,” Aberforth retorted, sneering worse than
Snivellus ever had. “Did you jump to enforce the law against muggleborns as
well?”
Snivellus ever had. “Did you jump to enforce the law against muggleborns as
well?”
“They weren’t robbing people blind. Unlike your friends.”
“You have no idea why they did it!” Aberforth was standing, but he wasn’t
raising his wand.
raising his wand.
“And I don’t care,” Moody said. “They weren’t in a war either. And if they
were skilled enough to break through wards, they were skilled enough to earn
honest gold. No excuses.”
were skilled enough to break through wards, they were skilled enough to earn
honest gold. No excuses.”
“Shut up!” Sirius yelled. ‘You can kill each other once the Dark Lord and his
followers are dead!’ In a more normal voice, he continued: “But if you don’t
manage to drop this, we’ll lose.” He took a deep breath. “Albus’s death has
fragmented the Order. I’m certain there are a number of members he was the
only one to know.”
followers are dead!’ In a more normal voice, he continued: “But if you don’t
manage to drop this, we’ll lose.” He took a deep breath. “Albus’s death has
fragmented the Order. I’m certain there are a number of members he was the
only one to know.”
“I’m not part of his Order,” Aberforth said through clenched teeth.
“Not any more, at least,” Moody added.
“Well, you’re a member now,” Sirius said. ‘Of the Order, or of a new Order.
Whatever.’ That seemed to surprise both older wizards. Before they could say
anything, Sirius pressed on. “But we don’t have time for old grudges. With
Albus dead, the Dark Lord will not wait much longer before he’ll strike. We
need to be ready. And we need every wand we can get.”
Whatever.’ That seemed to surprise both older wizards. Before they could say
anything, Sirius pressed on. “But we don’t have time for old grudges. With
Albus dead, the Dark Lord will not wait much longer before he’ll strike. We
need to be ready. And we need every wand we can get.”
“We don’t need thieves who will run at the first sign of danger and sell us
out at the first opportunity,” Moody spat.
out at the first opportunity,” Moody spat.
“Enough!” Sirius yelled, drowning out Aberforth’s angry reply. ‘You don’t need
to work with each other! You don’t even need to see each other!’ He wondered
how Albus had managed to stay sane while dealing with this sort of stupidity
for so long. “All you need to do is to wait with killing each other until the
Dark Lord’s dead!” Both men stared at him, then Mad-Eye chuckled. Aberforth
was still scowling, but as long as he wasn’t leaving or cursing anyone, Sirius
would take what he could get. “Now… Moody, we need all the Order members you
know who can and will fight ready.”
to work with each other! You don’t even need to see each other!’ He wondered
how Albus had managed to stay sane while dealing with this sort of stupidity
for so long. “All you need to do is to wait with killing each other until the
Dark Lord’s dead!” Both men stared at him, then Mad-Eye chuckled. Aberforth
was still scowling, but as long as he wasn’t leaving or cursing anyone, Sirius
would take what he could get. “Now… Moody, we need all the Order members you
know who can and will fight ready.”
The scarred wizard nodded, grinning. “I’ll get them ready, even if I have to
curse them until they shape up. Been doing that with the Ministry’s recruits
already.”
curse them until they shape up. Been doing that with the Ministry’s recruits
already.”
Sirius turned to Aberforth, who had been scoffing. “Aberforth, your friends
need to keep their eyes and ears open. The Dark Lord will try something soon,
if he’s not already doing it. We need to know what he’s planning. Even a few
minutes of advance warning will save lives.” Like Harry’s.
need to keep their eyes and ears open. The Dark Lord will try something soon,
if he’s not already doing it. We need to know what he’s planning. Even a few
minutes of advance warning will save lives.” Like Harry’s.
Moody mumbled something, probably another insult, but Dumbledore’s brother
nodded, if still reluctantly. “I’ll get the word out.”
nodded, if still reluctantly. “I’ll get the word out.”
Sirius smiled. “Good. It goes without saying that we also need your wand, once
the Dark Lord makes his move.”
the Dark Lord makes his move.”
Aberforth’s scowl deepened. “I’ll work with the Resistance.” With a glance at
Moody, he added: “They won’t curse me in the back.”
Moody, he added: “They won’t curse me in the back.”
Sirius sighed. How had the Headmaster kept the Order from tearing itself
apart? “Also, if you know any members of the Order in the Wizengamot, or close
to it… I need to talk to them.”
apart? “Also, if you know any members of the Order in the Wizengamot, or close
to it… I need to talk to them.”
“Ah. Bones’s throwing you a bone?” Moody laughed at his own remark.
Sirius shrugged. Since the old Auror was working in the Ministry, he’d already
know about it, of course. “It’s better than nothing, and it’ll help the war.”
know about it, of course. “It’s better than nothing, and it’ll help the war.”
And he’d enjoy seeing it, too. Even if he was not looking forward to shoring
up a quorum in the Wizengamot.
up a quorum in the Wizengamot.
---
**Dover, Kent, Britain, January 29th, 1997**
“Do you understand your task, Pettigrew?”
The Dark Lord Voldemort, wearing the guise of a random Albanian wizard whose
hair he had collected years ago, stared at the pudgy wizard in front of him.
They were seated in a muggle pub, the last place anyone would expect him to
spend any time.
hair he had collected years ago, stared at the pudgy wizard in front of him.
They were seated in a muggle pub, the last place anyone would expect him to
spend any time.
“Yes, Master!” Pettigrew nodded eagerly, smiling too widely. He was rubbing
his gloved left hand, though.
his gloved left hand, though.
Voldemort knew that the other wizard was a coward, despite his sorting, but he
was skilled. No talentless wizard would have managed to become an animagus
while still a teenager — or to conduct the ritual that gave Voldemort a new
body. He would do. The Dark Lord pulled out a small bag from his pocket and
handed it over.
was skilled. No talentless wizard would have managed to become an animagus
while still a teenager — or to conduct the ritual that gave Voldemort a new
body. He would do. The Dark Lord pulled out a small bag from his pocket and
handed it over.
Pettigrew fingered it, and Voldemort saw the man’s eyes widen. “Three,
Master?”
Master?”
“Yes. Just in case.” He had two hundred more bones of his father’s skeleton,
safely hidden in many places. He could easily spare three. A bag with three
vials followed. Madam Longbottom hadn’t any use for the blood, not any more,
and she had definitely been an enemy of his. ‘Find a safe place, and if a day
passes without my mark burning, conduct the ritual.’ With a smirk, he added.
“Don’t use a whole limb this time. A toe or two will do.”
safely hidden in many places. He could easily spare three. A bag with three
vials followed. Madam Longbottom hadn’t any use for the blood, not any more,
and she had definitely been an enemy of his. ‘Find a safe place, and if a day
passes without my mark burning, conduct the ritual.’ With a smirk, he added.
“Don’t use a whole limb this time. A toe or two will do.”
Pettigrew gaped at him for a moment before closing his mouth and glancing at
his left hand. He was a talented wizard, but his mastery of the Dark Arts was
lacking.
his left hand. He was a talented wizard, but his mastery of the Dark Arts was
lacking.
“Don’t tell anyone about this. And don’t let that werewolf find you,”
Voldemort added.
Voldemort added.
Pettigrew shuddered. “Yes, Master.”
“Now go!”
Voldemort watched as the man got up and hurried out of the pub. Others of his
followers would try to exploit this, or would start to doubt him, should they
know about this. Not Pettigrew, though. That wizard valued his survival more
than anything else, even ambition, and understood the value of precautions.
followers would try to exploit this, or would start to doubt him, should they
know about this. Not Pettigrew, though. That wizard valued his survival more
than anything else, even ambition, and understood the value of precautions.
A trait that had served Voldemort well in the past, and would serve him well
again.
again.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, January 30th, 1997**
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! We have gathered here to pass judgement
over two accused of that most serious of crimes, treason.”
over two accused of that most serious of crimes, treason.”
Brenda Brocktuckle forced herself not to pull on the chains securing her to
the seat. She wouldn’t show such weakness. She hadn’t much left, but she still
had her pride. She glanced at the Chief Warlock. Or the man in place of the
Chief Warlock. It should have been Philius Runcorn, the most senior member of
the Wizengamot. But it wasn’t. Had the blood traitors done away with him too?
He certainly wouldn’t have been party to this farce, Brenda thought as she
listened to the accusations leveled at her and Malcolm by Thicknesse.
the seat. She wouldn’t show such weakness. She hadn’t much left, but she still
had her pride. She glanced at the Chief Warlock. Or the man in place of the
Chief Warlock. It should have been Philius Runcorn, the most senior member of
the Wizengamot. But it wasn’t. Had the blood traitors done away with him too?
He certainly wouldn’t have been party to this farce, Brenda thought as she
listened to the accusations leveled at her and Malcolm by Thicknesse.
It was a long list. They even brought up the Imperius she had used in the
Ministry, citing that it hadn’t been a lawful use. It wasn’t as if it
mattered. Brenda had brought the cursed paper aeroplanes into the Ministry and
had fought and killed the blood traitors in the Corps. That would be enough to
damn her.
Ministry, citing that it hadn’t been a lawful use. It wasn’t as if it
mattered. Brenda had brought the cursed paper aeroplanes into the Ministry and
had fought and killed the blood traitors in the Corps. That would be enough to
damn her.
Especially, she added, glancing over the half-empty Wizengamot, with only
blood traitors and their proxies present. She wouldn’t have thought that there
were so many fools willing to defy the Dark Lord.
blood traitors and their proxies present. She wouldn’t have thought that there
were so many fools willing to defy the Dark Lord.
“What a farce!” Malcolm muttered, next to her. She glanced over at him, and he
grinned at her. “They’ll pay for this, once the Dark Lord takes over.”
grinned at her. “They’ll pay for this, once the Dark Lord takes over.”
That wouldn’t help either of them, Brenda thought.
“Brenda Brocktuckle, how do you plead?”
For a moment, she was tempted to plead guilty, just to get it over with. But
she wouldn’t give them the satisfaction. She was no criminal! Brenda raised
her head and looked at Bones. Her former boss stared back at her without
showing any emotion. “Not guilty!” Brenda announced loudly. “I fought blood
traitors and mass murdering mudbloods to save Britain!”
she wouldn’t give them the satisfaction. She was no criminal! Brenda raised
her head and looked at Bones. Her former boss stared back at her without
showing any emotion. “Not guilty!” Brenda announced loudly. “I fought blood
traitors and mass murdering mudbloods to save Britain!”
That started yells and murmurs among the members of the Wizengamot present.
“No self-control,” Malcolm said in a low voice. “How far have they fallen!”
“Take note that the accused Brocktuckle pleads ‘not guilty’,” Thicknesse told
the court scribe. “Malcolm Parkinson, how do you plead?”
the court scribe. “Malcolm Parkinson, how do you plead?”
“Not guilty!” Malcolm scoffed. “My only crime is having failed in my task.”
Which was, Brenda noted, very much true. If they had won, they’d certainly not
be treated as criminals, but would be hailed as heroes. She chuckled at the
thought while she watched an Unspeakable approach.
be treated as criminals, but would be hailed as heroes. She chuckled at the
thought while she watched an Unspeakable approach.
She knew the procedure. They’d check her for potions and spells, before
administering the Veritaserum. “Let’s get this over with,” Brenda said and
opened her mouth.
administering the Veritaserum. “Let’s get this over with,” Brenda said and
opened her mouth.
---
“Those in favour of conviction, raise your wands!”
Brenda Brocktuckle had known the outcome in advance, but she had had a sliver
of irrational hope anyway that the Wizengamot would not dare to challenge the
Dark Lord. Would falter at the last moment. Malcolm certainly had reminded
them of the consequences of a guilty verdict when he had spoken in his
defence.
of irrational hope anyway that the Wizengamot would not dare to challenge the
Dark Lord. Would falter at the last moment. Malcolm certainly had reminded
them of the consequences of a guilty verdict when he had spoken in his
defence.
But it seemed that Bones and Black had picked their tools well — the vast
majority of the members present lit their wands, sealing Brenda’s fate.
majority of the members present lit their wands, sealing Brenda’s fate.
“Brenda Brocktuckle, the Wizengamot has judged you guilty of treason,
conspiracy to treason, murder, conspiracy to murder, unlawful use of an
unforgivable curse and partaking in a dark ritual.”
conspiracy to treason, murder, conspiracy to murder, unlawful use of an
unforgivable curse and partaking in a dark ritual.”
While the replacement Chief Warlock read the sentence, Brenda closed her eyes
for a moment, composing herself. The Ministry had no Dementors, so they
couldn’t give her the kiss. Maybe they’d imprison her…
for a moment, composing herself. The Ministry had no Dementors, so they
couldn’t give her the kiss. Maybe they’d imprison her…
“As punishment, you will be sent through the Veil. The sentence will be
carried out immediately.”
carried out immediately.”
She clenched her teeth. She wouldn’t give them the satisfaction of seeing her
lose her composure. She’d die with her head held high. The Veil wasn’t bad,
she told herself while the Wizengamot rendered their judgement on Malcolm. It
was supposed to be quick and painless. And she wouldn’t lose her soul. She
still flinched when her wand was snapped in front of her, but any witch would,
in her place. Malcolm flinched as well when his turn came.
lose her composure. She’d die with her head held high. The Veil wasn’t bad,
she told herself while the Wizengamot rendered their judgement on Malcolm. It
was supposed to be quick and painless. And she wouldn’t lose her soul. She
still flinched when her wand was snapped in front of her, but any witch would,
in her place. Malcolm flinched as well when his turn came.
Then the Aurors guarding her stepped up, contempt in their faces. She sneered
at the traitors. They’d get theirs when the Dark Lord came for the Ministry.
at the traitors. They’d get theirs when the Dark Lord came for the Ministry.
Maybe he was already on the way. If the wards came under attack, they’d need
every Auror and wouldn’t be able to spare the time to execute her…
every Auror and wouldn’t be able to spare the time to execute her…
She knew it was stupid, irrational, but she kept hoping, kept watching,
listening for any sign that the Ministry was under attack. Right until she
reached the Death Chamber, and saw the Veil standing there. And heard its
whispers. Alien. Wrong.
listening for any sign that the Ministry was under attack. Right until she
reached the Death Chamber, and saw the Veil standing there. And heard its
whispers. Alien. Wrong.
She faltered in her steps, then, and shook her head. “No!” she muttered.
Anything but that.
Anything but that.
But her hands were bound, and she had no wand. The Aurors escorting her
grabbed her arms, and pushed her forward. Towards that thing.
grabbed her arms, and pushed her forward. Towards that thing.
It was quick, but it wasn’t painless. Not at all.
---
**London, East End, January 30th, 1997**
“They executed Brocktuckle and Parkinson,” Hermione Granger announced to the
rest of the Resistance gathered in the living room of their base. “Sirius just
told me.”
rest of the Resistance gathered in the living room of their base. “Sirius just
told me.”
“Good riddance to bad rubbish,” Seamus muttered. “Did anything important
happen?”
happen?”
Hermione suppressed the annoyance she felt upon hearing his comment. “The ones
who imperiused you are dead,” she said, looking at Mary-Jane, then glancing at
Seamus.
who imperiused you are dead,” she said, looking at Mary-Jane, then glancing at
Seamus.
The wizard at least had the grace to look embarrassed when Mary-Jane closed
her eyes and took a few deep breaths. The witch recovered before Sally-Anne
reached her, and looked at Hermione. “Thank you.”
her eyes and took a few deep breaths. The witch recovered before Sally-Anne
reached her, and looked at Hermione. “Thank you.”
Hermione hoped that this information would help the girl. She had been under
the Imperius for so long, mind-controlled, her very emotions manipulated… it
was as bad or worse as being roofied, Hermione thought.
the Imperius for so long, mind-controlled, her very emotions manipulated… it
was as bad or worse as being roofied, Hermione thought.
But she couldn’t dwell on the matter. They had a war to fight. She cleared her
throat and leaned forward, putting her hands on the dining table. “That said,
Sirius also told me that the Order has mobilised, so to speak, and is ready to
react to any sighting of the Dark Lord.” She looked at the others. “And so are
we.”
throat and leaned forward, putting her hands on the dining table. “That said,
Sirius also told me that the Order has mobilised, so to speak, and is ready to
react to any sighting of the Dark Lord.” She looked at the others. “And so are
we.”
“And the Ministry?” Tania asked. “What are they doing?”
“Guarding the Ministry, mostly,” Hermione said, scoffing.
“They’d only get in our way anyway.” John grinned in his seat.
“Or stab us in the back,” Seamus added.
“That’s unlikely,” Hermione said, “but not impossible. Bones really didn’t
like our demands.” Once the Dark Lord was gone, the witch would try to
renegotiate their deal. Or renege.
like our demands.” Once the Dark Lord was gone, the witch would try to
renegotiate their deal. Or renege.
“And so they’ll let us bleed against the Death Eaters while they guard the
Ministry?” Justin shook his head.
Ministry?” Justin shook his head.
“It’s not as if we have a choice. The Aurors and Hit-Wizards left certainly
won’t be very effective against Voldemort. Even if we could trust them
completely, they wouldn’t be much of a help.” Hermione sighed.
won’t be very effective against Voldemort. Even if we could trust them
completely, they wouldn’t be much of a help.” Hermione sighed.
“But we could blow them up together with the Dark Lord!” Seamus grinned
widely. “Kill two birds with one stone!”
widely. “Kill two birds with one stone!”
He wasn’t just joking, Hermione knew. She was tempted to agree — she wasn’t
looking forward to dealing with the Ministry once the common enemy was gone —
but she shook her head at the proposal. “It’s very unlikely that we’d
encounter such a situation.”
looking forward to dealing with the Ministry once the common enemy was gone —
but she shook her head at the proposal. “It’s very unlikely that we’d
encounter such a situation.”
“Because the Dark Lord would kill them all easily before we’d arrive!” Tania
said, balancing her chair on the two back legs.
said, balancing her chair on the two back legs.
“Yes.” Hermione smiled at the witch, though she was tempted to tell her to
stop fidgeting with her chair.
stop fidgeting with her chair.
“We have a bomb or two ready with Voldemort’s name on it,” Seamus said. “If he
shows up, he’s history. As long as we are informed in time,” he added with a
frown.
shows up, he’s history. As long as we are informed in time,” he added with a
frown.
“We will.” Bones would want them to engage quickly, Hermione thought. “But
deploying the bomb will be very difficult. Voldemort will be prepared.”
deploying the bomb will be very difficult. Voldemort will be prepared.”
“If we make it big enough then whatever he’s planning won’t help,” Seamus
said.
said.
“You’ll also run the risk of killing yourself with it.” Hermione looked at
him. “The bigger it is, the bigger the height you’ll need to drop it from —
and the longer he has to react to it. And the collateral damage would be far
too great.”
him. “The bigger it is, the bigger the height you’ll need to drop it from —
and the longer he has to react to it. And the collateral damage would be far
too great.”
“What can he do?” Seamus stood up, staring at her. ‘If wards can’t stand up to
it, what can Voldemort do? Unless you care more about some stupid purebloods
than winning the war.’ He sneered. “You didn’t have such issues when we bombed
Malfoy Manor.”
it, what can Voldemort do? Unless you care more about some stupid purebloods
than winning the war.’ He sneered. “You didn’t have such issues when we bombed
Malfoy Manor.”
“Malfoy Manor was isolated and full of Death Eaters and sympathisers, not in
the middle of London,” Hermione retorted. And, a small voice in the back of
her head added, their kids. ‘What can the Dark Lord do? Fly away before it
hits. Conjure a bunker. Vanish it before it explodes. Use a decoy to make us
kill innocents.’ She shrugged. “These are just the obvious counters.”
the middle of London,” Hermione retorted. And, a small voice in the back of
her head added, their kids. ‘What can the Dark Lord do? Fly away before it
hits. Conjure a bunker. Vanish it before it explodes. Use a decoy to make us
kill innocents.’ She shrugged. “These are just the obvious counters.”
“So, what can we do then? Lestrange was bad enough, and the Dark Lord is
worse,” Tania said. She wasn’t balancing on her chair any more.
worse,” Tania said. She wasn’t balancing on her chair any more.
“We have a plan,” Hermione started. “The key is Harry. He needs to get close
enough to Voldemort to take him out. Which means we’ll have to clear the way
for him, and protect him.”
enough to Voldemort to take him out. Which means we’ll have to clear the way
for him, and protect him.”
“What? Are we supposed to die so he can play the hero?” Seamus shook his head
as if he couldn’t believe what he had heard.
as if he couldn’t believe what he had heard.
“We’re not supposed to die,” Justin quoted the Sergeant. “We’re supposed to
make the enemy die.”
make the enemy die.”
“Easier said than done,” Tania muttered. She would be remembering Mary. “But
what can Harry do? And why hasn’t he done it in Hogsmeade, when the Dark Lord
was chasing him?”
what can Harry do? And why hasn’t he done it in Hogsmeade, when the Dark Lord
was chasing him?”
Hermione hated to keep secrets from her friends, but they didn’t need to know
the exact details. “He wasn’t ready then. There’s a prophecy about him and the
Dark Lord. Dumbledore has been training him.”
the exact details. “He wasn’t ready then. There’s a prophecy about him and the
Dark Lord. Dumbledore has been training him.”
“Dumbledore’s dead!” John said.
“Yes, he is. But Harry’s ready now.” She was frowning, which wouldn’t help
her.
her.
“Ready for what?” Seamus gesticulated with his arms. “You can’t expect us to
risk our lives without knowing what the plan is!”
risk our lives without knowing what the plan is!”
“You know the plan. Telling you what Harry will be doing will not change
anything except for putting the entire plan at risk.” Hermione glared at him.
anything except for putting the entire plan at risk.” Hermione glared at him.
“So it’s OK to tell your pureblood boyfriends everything about us, but we’re
not to be trusted?” Seamus straightened up, then looked at the rest of the
Resistance.
not to be trusted?” Seamus straightened up, then looked at the rest of the
Resistance.
She resisted the urge to correct him about Harry’s blood status. That didn’t
matter. She glanced at the others too, though, trying to guess where they
stood. Justin and Sally-Anne would support her. But the others? “Are you
willing to risk our best shot to kill the Dark Lord for good, just to feed
your ego?” She took a step around the table. “Do you think everyone should
know everything, so the enemy just has to take one prisoner, and we’re all
lost?”
matter. She glanced at the others too, though, trying to guess where they
stood. Justin and Sally-Anne would support her. But the others? “Are you
willing to risk our best shot to kill the Dark Lord for good, just to feed
your ego?” She took a step around the table. “Do you think everyone should
know everything, so the enemy just has to take one prisoner, and we’re all
lost?”
“You tell Weasley everything!” Seamus shot back. “And we’re protected against
spilling secrets!”
spilling secrets!”
“I don’t tell Ron everything.” Hermione pressed her lips together. She
couldn’t get angry about this. “We’re protected against betraying the
Resistance. Other secrets are not safe.”
couldn’t get angry about this. “We’re protected against betraying the
Resistance. Other secrets are not safe.”
“We know enough. I trust Hermione,” Justin said.
“Me too!” Sally-Anne added.
“Keeping information classified is basic procedure,” Louise chimed in. Next to
the former Hit-Witch, Jeremy nodded.
the former Hit-Witch, Jeremy nodded.
Hermione started to relax. John wasn’t a hothead. That left Seamus, and
possibly Tania.
possibly Tania.
“I just want the Dark Lord and all the Death Eaters dead. If you say this is
our best shot, then I’ll trust you,” Tania said.
our best shot, then I’ll trust you,” Tania said.
Seamus flinched. Hermione could see him glance around, then meet her eyes with
clenched teeth. “Alright. We’ll play bodyguard for Harry,” he pressed out,
then sat down. Tania reached out to put her hand on his shoulder, but he
shrugged it off and looked away.
clenched teeth. “Alright. We’ll play bodyguard for Harry,” he pressed out,
then sat down. Tania reached out to put her hand on his shoulder, but he
shrugged it off and looked away.
Hermione took a deep breath and forced herself to relax. If she hadn’t had the
trust of her friends… She returned to her seat and pulled out maps. “So… we’re
expecting an attack on the Ministry, Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade or Hogwarts.
Here’s what we’ll do in each case…”
trust of her friends… She returned to her seat and pulled out maps. “So… we’re
expecting an attack on the Ministry, Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade or Hogwarts.
Here’s what we’ll do in each case…”
---
An hour later, Hermione was lying on her bed and staring at the ceiling. What
was Seamus thinking? He hadn’t said anything questionable after their
confrontation, but she was certain that he hadn’t changed his views. At least
Tania hadn’t supported him. The two had grown close, after all. Hopefully, the
witch would be a good influence on Seamus. Hermione didn’t know what he’d do
if he felt that he was completely alone. If he decided to follow in Allan’s
footsteps…
was Seamus thinking? He hadn’t said anything questionable after their
confrontation, but she was certain that he hadn’t changed his views. At least
Tania hadn’t supported him. The two had grown close, after all. Hopefully, the
witch would be a good influence on Seamus. Hermione didn’t know what he’d do
if he felt that he was completely alone. If he decided to follow in Allan’s
footsteps…
She closed her eyes. She hoped she was worried over nothing. So far, Seamus
had just been talking about attacking purebloods — or rather, had tried to
change the Resistance’s definition of acceptable collateral damage. He hadn’t
actually done anything.
had just been talking about attacking purebloods — or rather, had tried to
change the Resistance’s definition of acceptable collateral damage. He hadn’t
actually done anything.
Nothing she knew about, Hermione corrected herself. It wasn’t as if she had
been keeping track of what he was doing when he went out. She sighed and shook
her head. No, she couldn’t assume the worst of Seamus. He hadn’t let her down
so far, and he had had her back in every battle.
been keeping track of what he was doing when he went out. She sighed and shook
her head. No, she couldn’t assume the worst of Seamus. He hadn’t let her down
so far, and he had had her back in every battle.
And yet… Allan had said the same things.
---
**Hogwarts, January 31st, 1997**
Attending lessons while there was a war going on was becoming more and more
tedious, Harry Potter thought. How could he care about Herbology, or History
of Magic, when he was fated to face Voldemort? At least Charms and
Transfiguration had some use in battle. Potions on the other hand…
tedious, Harry Potter thought. How could he care about Herbology, or History
of Magic, when he was fated to face Voldemort? At least Charms and
Transfiguration had some use in battle. Potions on the other hand…
But it was over for now, at least. Harry smiled while packing his potions kit
into his cauldron. No more lessons until Monday. No more useless lessons, at
least — there was a training session in the evening, as usual.
into his cauldron. No more lessons until Monday. No more useless lessons, at
least — there was a training session in the evening, as usual.
Ron had already finished, and was waiting for him at the door. “Finally done!
Come on, mate! Let’s get out of here before we start wearing green and
silver!”
Come on, mate! Let’s get out of here before we start wearing green and
silver!”
They made their way up to the Gryffindor dorms with their wands ready. Without
Dumbledore, Hogwarts was not as safe as it had been. McGonagall was doing her
best, but she wasn’t the Headmaster. Harry shook his head. It was a good thing
that McGonagall was a witch and would be the Headmistress of Hogwarts —
Dumbledore would probably always be the Headmaster for Harry, and for many
others.
Dumbledore, Hogwarts was not as safe as it had been. McGonagall was doing her
best, but she wasn’t the Headmaster. Harry shook his head. It was a good thing
that McGonagall was a witch and would be the Headmistress of Hogwarts —
Dumbledore would probably always be the Headmaster for Harry, and for many
others.
He smiled at his whimsical thought.
“Today there’s another broadcast, isn’t there?” Ron said as they stepped
through the Fat Lady’s painting.
through the Fat Lady’s painting.
“If they stick to their schedule, yes,” Harry said. And knowing Hermione, the
Resistance would stick to their schedule.
Resistance would stick to their schedule.
“Oh, they will,” Ron said. Probably thinking the same thing.
Neville was in their dorm room, peering at the Marauder’s Map. “Hello, you
two,” he said, without looking up.
two,” he said, without looking up.
“Hello, Neville.” Harry hesitated for an awkward moment. “How are you doing?”
“All’s clear.” The boy still was staring at the map with an expression of
intense concentration on his face. “Do you have any news about the war?”
intense concentration on his face. “Do you have any news about the war?”
Neville sounded eager, Harry noticed, not scared or nervous like most of the
students. He didn’t know what to tell the other boy — Harry doubted that he
wanted to hear some empty words about being ready.
students. He didn’t know what to tell the other boy — Harry doubted that he
wanted to hear some empty words about being ready.
“No, mate. The Ministry’s still sorting things out, and the Resistance and the
Order are picking up the slack.” Ron apparently had no such compunction,
although he was telling the truth.
Order are picking up the slack.” Ron apparently had no such compunction,
although he was telling the truth.
Neville grunted something unintelligible. Then he looked up, staring at the
two of them. “Do you think he’ll attack Hogwarts?”
two of them. “Do you think he’ll attack Hogwarts?”
“I doubt it,” Harry said. “The wards are too strong. He wouldn’t be able to
break through them quickly enough to avoid getting attacked while he’s tied up
and vulnerable. And I doubt that he has competent curse-breakers left.”
break through them quickly enough to avoid getting attacked while he’s tied up
and vulnerable. And I doubt that he has competent curse-breakers left.”
“Have you heard anything about the Lestrange brothers?” Neville was splitting
his attention between the map and Harry and Ron now, his eyes darting around.
his attention between the map and Harry and Ron now, his eyes darting around.
“No, nothing. They haven’t been seen as far as I know.” Harry shook his head.
“Like Pettigrew,” he added. The traitor hadn’t been seen by anyone since
Voldemort’s return.
“Like Pettigrew,” he added. The traitor hadn’t been seen by anyone since
Voldemort’s return.
Neville nodded. “If they do appear, tell me.” He stared at them again.
“Of course, mate,” Ron said, smiling a bit weakly.
“He’s become even more fanatical about this than Moody,” Ron whispered,
sitting down on Harry’s bed and kicking his cauldron under his own bed.
sitting down on Harry’s bed and kicking his cauldron under his own bed.
“Yeah,” Harry said, stowing his own cauldron in his trunk. Moody’s training
didn’t help, of course. Part of him was glad for another wand fighting
Voldemort. But he couldn’t help wondering if Neville was fighting to win, or
trying to die fighting. Especially now, with Dumbledore dead.
didn’t help, of course. Part of him was glad for another wand fighting
Voldemort. But he couldn’t help wondering if Neville was fighting to win, or
trying to die fighting. Especially now, with Dumbledore dead.
---
“…and while Dumbledore has died, the fight goes on! The Muggleborn Resistance
will never surrender! We’ve fought both the Ministry and the Death Eaters
together, and we’ll fight the Death Eaters and the Dark Lord by ourselves, if
we have to.
will never surrender! We’ve fought both the Ministry and the Death Eaters
together, and we’ll fight the Death Eaters and the Dark Lord by ourselves, if
we have to.
“But we’re not alone! The Order of the Phoenix is with us! The Ministry’s
fighting the Dark Lord too — just a day ago, they tried and executed several
Death Eater spies. The French have sent help!
fighting the Dark Lord too — just a day ago, they tried and executed several
Death Eater spies. The French have sent help!
“And the Dark Lord’s forces were almost wiped out in the Battle of the
Ministry and in Hogsmeade! He hasn’t shown his face since he was driven out of
the village, either!
Ministry and in Hogsmeade! He hasn’t shown his face since he was driven out of
the village, either!
“Dumbledore is dead, but we’re not beaten — far from it! We’re ready to deal
with the Dark Lord himself, should he dare to attack us, or anyone else in
Britain! We will not rest until the last follower of his ideology has been
defeated!”
with the Dark Lord himself, should he dare to attack us, or anyone else in
Britain! We will not rest until the last follower of his ideology has been
defeated!”
Harry turned away from the wireless when Hermione’s voice was replaced with
some rock music and shifted in his armchair. He, Ron and Ginny were sitting in
their usual corner in the Gryffindor common room. He glanced at the witch. It
had been his, Ron’s and Hermione’s corner last year and seeing Ginny sitting
in Hermione’s usual seat was still somewhat disconcerting.
some rock music and shifted in his armchair. He, Ron and Ginny were sitting in
their usual corner in the Gryffindor common room. He glanced at the witch. It
had been his, Ron’s and Hermione’s corner last year and seeing Ginny sitting
in Hermione’s usual seat was still somewhat disconcerting.
“That was pretty intense,” Ron said. He had a wistful smile on his face.
Ginny nodded.
“Yes,” Harry said, “but it doesn’t change the fact that Dumbledore’s death hit
us hard.”
us hard.”
“Well, it’s a good sign that everyone’s working together,” Ginny went on. “I
was afraid that with the Headmaster gone, everyone would turn on each other,
again.”
was afraid that with the Headmaster gone, everyone would turn on each other,
again.”
“According to Sirius, the Order almost did. Or some of them, at least. He
didn’t name names, but apparently, some of the Order members really hate each
other,” Harry said.
didn’t name names, but apparently, some of the Order members really hate each
other,” Harry said.
“Fred and George told me about that thief, who tried to swindle them out of
stock, claiming Dumbledore sent him. Fletcher,” Ron said, nodding. “They drove
him off with a few product demonstrations.” He grinned.
stock, claiming Dumbledore sent him. Fletcher,” Ron said, nodding. “They drove
him off with a few product demonstrations.” He grinned.
“Stupid. Why’s Dumbledore been recruiting such people?” Ginny frowned and
pulled her legs up, hugging her knees in her seat.
pulled her legs up, hugging her knees in her seat.
“Probably as spies.” Ron shrugged. “Can’t fight a war without doing some shady
stuff.”
stuff.”
“Did you do some ‘shady stuff’?” She was looking from one of them to the other
with her chin resting on her knees. Harry was surprised how small she looked
like that. Tiny, even.
with her chin resting on her knees. Harry was surprised how small she looked
like that. Tiny, even.
“No.”
“No.”
The witch didn’t look convinced, but didn’t pry either. For a moment, none of
them said anything. Judging by his expression, Ron was probably thinking of
Hermione again, Harry thought. He couldn’t tell what Ginny was thinking about.
Hopefully, she wasn’t remembering Voldemort possessing her in second year.
them said anything. Judging by his expression, Ron was probably thinking of
Hermione again, Harry thought. He couldn’t tell what Ginny was thinking about.
Hopefully, she wasn’t remembering Voldemort possessing her in second year.
“Why can’t they see that we all have the same enemy?” Ginny huffed, and blew
at a strand of her hair that had fallen on her face.
at a strand of her hair that had fallen on her face.
“They do. But everyone’s already planning for the time after the war. And that
won’t be pretty.” Ron leaned back in his own seat and folded his hands on his
stomach.
won’t be pretty.” Ron leaned back in his own seat and folded his hands on his
stomach.
“They should win the war first!” Ginny said, snorting. She was clenching her
teeth and staring at the floor. “Why’s everyone acting like idiots?”
teeth and staring at the floor. “Why’s everyone acting like idiots?”
She had a point, of course. But simply focusing on beating Voldemort was not
that smart either. “The aftermath will be chaotic enough, it’s better to
prepare in advance.” Harry stretched. He had another training session planned
for this evening.
that smart either. “The aftermath will be chaotic enough, it’s better to
prepare in advance.” Harry stretched. He had another training session planned
for this evening.
“That would be a good thing, if the Ministry wouldn’t be preparing to
double-cross the Resistance as soon as Voldemort’s dead.” Ron shook his head,
glaring at the wall.
double-cross the Resistance as soon as Voldemort’s dead.” Ron shook his head,
glaring at the wall.
Ginny whipped her head round and stared at her brother with wide eyes. “Did
you hear anything from Dad or Percy about that?”
you hear anything from Dad or Percy about that?”
“No. But that’s no surprise. Bones knows that we’re blood traitors. She
wouldn’t tell us anything. Especially not with people knowing about Hermione
and I dating.” Ron glared at the Daily Prophet on the table nearby.
wouldn’t tell us anything. Especially not with people knowing about Hermione
and I dating.” Ron glared at the Daily Prophet on the table nearby.
“It was a nice article,” his sister tried to console him. “Nothing like the
Skeeter ones in third year.”
Skeeter ones in third year.”
“Fourth year you mean,” Ron corrected her.
“It was my third.”
“So? It was Harry’s, mine and Hermione’s fourth!”
Harry chuckled while the two redheads bickered. The Legilimency training could
wait a bit longer.
wait a bit longer.
---
**London, Greenwich, February 1st, 1997**
The Dark Lord Voldemort looked at the building, and suppressed the rage rising
inside him. He wasn’t seeing the modern muggle house in front of him, but the
dark walls of Wool’s Orphanage. Memories appeared in his mind, unbidden,
unwelcome. Hunger, pain, shivering in the cold, living amongst muggle filth.
Stupid children, mocking him for being different, until he taught them better.
Dumbledore, visiting, and showing off his power.
inside him. He wasn’t seeing the modern muggle house in front of him, but the
dark walls of Wool’s Orphanage. Memories appeared in his mind, unbidden,
unwelcome. Hunger, pain, shivering in the cold, living amongst muggle filth.
Stupid children, mocking him for being different, until he taught them better.
Dumbledore, visiting, and showing off his power.
He didn’t like to remember his childhood. He had been weak. Weak and ignorant.
Barely better than the muggles around him… No! He had always known that he was
destined for greater things. That he’d one day rule over all of those who had
looked down on him. And he had risen far, far above this.
Barely better than the muggles around him… No! He had always known that he was
destined for greater things. That he’d one day rule over all of those who had
looked down on him. And he had risen far, far above this.
He shook his head. This wasn’t Wool’s Orphanage, and he wasn’t here to
remember his childhood. It was an unpleasant task, but a necessary one, and
one he could not entrust to any of his followers.
remember his childhood. It was an unpleasant task, but a necessary one, and
one he could not entrust to any of his followers.
He put a smile on his face and entered the building. There was a desk at the
entrance, a reception. As if this was a hotel. A young muggle was sitting
behind it. “Hello, sir. How may I help you?”
entrance, a reception. As if this was a hotel. A young muggle was sitting
behind it. “Hello, sir. How may I help you?”
He smiled at her, once again disguised as an average man, and pointed his wand
at her. “I have an appointment with the director.”
at her. “I have an appointment with the director.”
She blinked as the spell took hold. “Of course, sir! She’s expecting you. If
you’ll follow me.”
you’ll follow me.”
Voldemort’s smile deepened when he spotted a few children peering at him from
around a corner. Perfect.
around a corner. Perfect.
---
Half an hour later, two dozen children, all between five and eight years old,
had gathered in the orphanage’s courtyard. Most were smiling, and staring at
the bus parked there. One, though, was frowning. “I didn’t hear about a trip.
Those are usually announced in advance. Where are we going, anyway?”
had gathered in the orphanage’s courtyard. Most were smiling, and staring at
the bus parked there. One, though, was frowning. “I didn’t hear about a trip.
Those are usually announced in advance. Where are we going, anyway?”
Voldemort sighed. He knew the type. And hated them. He bent down and smiled
widely at the annoying muggle boy, showing his teeth.
widely at the annoying muggle boy, showing his teeth.
“Somewhere magical!”
Chapter 40: Battle of Diagon Alley
==================================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox, fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved
the story a lot.
the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 40: Battle of Diagon Alley**
*’Many of my colleagues have described the meeting on January 28th 1997 in the
Ministry as an event involving the leaders of all the factions opposing the
Dark Lord — effectively, a meeting of Wizarding Britain’s leadership. In my
opinion, that is not quite correct. While it is true that the Minister for
Magic and the leaders of both the Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn
Resistance were present, it has to be noted that none of them had the degree
of control over the sides they nominally represented which many attribute to
them.*
Ministry as an event involving the leaders of all the factions opposing the
Dark Lord — effectively, a meeting of Wizarding Britain’s leadership. In my
opinion, that is not quite correct. While it is true that the Minister for
Magic and the leaders of both the Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn
Resistance were present, it has to be noted that none of them had the degree
of control over the sides they nominally represented which many attribute to
them.*
*Amelia Bones was the Minister for Magic, but she was dependent on the support
of the Wizengamot for crucial issues, and was far from having the same degree
of influence on its members that Dumbledore had commanded. Likewise, she had
the personal loyalty of most of the surviving members of the DMLE, but other
Ministry employees were not quite as reliable.*
of the Wizengamot for crucial issues, and was far from having the same degree
of influence on its members that Dumbledore had commanded. Likewise, she had
the personal loyalty of most of the surviving members of the DMLE, but other
Ministry employees were not quite as reliable.*
*Sirius Black was the leader of a cell of the Order of the Phoenix and didn’t
know all of the other cells and agents — some information Dumbledore had taken
with him to his grave, apparently trusting his more discreet friends to
contact his successors on their own. Black also had contacts in the
Wizengamot, but these were not very extensive.*
know all of the other cells and agents — some information Dumbledore had taken
with him to his grave, apparently trusting his more discreet friends to
contact his successors on their own. Black also had contacts in the
Wizengamot, but these were not very extensive.*
*Harry Potter was the famous Boy-Who-Lived, known by everyone in the country,
but he was still a student, and for all his famous deeds, not many adults
would follow him.*
but he was still a student, and for all his famous deeds, not many adults
would follow him.*
*Hermione Granger was the undisputed leader of the Muggleborn Resistance, and,
at that point, as well-known as Harry Potter in Britain, but that did not
translate into being a leader of all muggleborns — or even most of them.*
at that point, as well-known as Harry Potter in Britain, but that did not
translate into being a leader of all muggleborns — or even most of them.*
*Knowing this, the events that followed should be far less surprising than
they have been made out to be by some.*
they have been made out to be by some.*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 1st, 1997**
“A fine day for a little stroll, don’t you agree, Ackerly? You’re quite
familiar with such outings, aren’t you?” The Dark Lord Voldemort smiled when
he saw Nott cringe — the man hadn’t forgotten what Voldemort had done to him
as punishment for organising the riot last summer that had disrupted his
plans. Nott hadn’t been able to walk without the help of magic for months.
familiar with such outings, aren’t you?” The Dark Lord Voldemort smiled when
he saw Nott cringe — the man hadn’t forgotten what Voldemort had done to him
as punishment for organising the riot last summer that had disrupted his
plans. Nott hadn’t been able to walk without the help of magic for months.
“Yes, milord.” Nott was probably glancing around behind his mask — the man’s
posture betrayed how nervous he was.
posture betrayed how nervous he was.
Rabastan chuckled at the sight, twirling his wand. “Not losing your nerve
already, I hope?” He nodded at the two dead bodies that lay sprawled on the
floor, victims of Killing Curses. “We haven’t spilled any mudblood yet.”
already, I hope?” He nodded at the two dead bodies that lay sprawled on the
floor, victims of Killing Curses. “We haven’t spilled any mudblood yet.”
The man’s wit had suffered during his time in Azkaban, though not many had the
courage to tell him that to his face, but he was otherwise as capable as he
had been. He had secured the clothes shop the Dark Lord was using to stage his
forces without any problems.
courage to tell him that to his face, but he was otherwise as capable as he
had been. He had secured the clothes shop the Dark Lord was using to stage his
forces without any problems.
Rabastan had been pleased when he had been given the honour of being the
vanguard for this mission. Unlike Nott, who had been nervous even when he was
walking at the Dark Lord’s side. He’d do his duty, though, if he didn’t want
to be punished even worse than before.
vanguard for this mission. Unlike Nott, who had been nervous even when he was
walking at the Dark Lord’s side. He’d do his duty, though, if he didn’t want
to be punished even worse than before.
Voldemort looked around to make certain that they were hidden from the street
by the shelves inside the shop and flicked his wand.
by the shelves inside the shop and flicked his wand.
The fireplace flared up, and Rodolphus stepped out.
“Milord.” The man nodded at Voldemort and took up a position at the door. He
hadn’t talked much since Voldemort had broken him out of Azkaban and only
seemed to display his old savage temper in battle.
hadn’t talked much since Voldemort had broken him out of Azkaban and only
seemed to display his old savage temper in battle.
Today would accommodate that, Voldemort thought, as the fireplace flared up
again, and a young boy fell out of it, rolling over the floor. Rabastan didn’t
bother waiting until the muggle could stand up. Two spells had the child stuck
to the wall while the rest of the urchins arrived through the Floo, none of
them displaying even the least hint of grace. It was very fortunate that
Silencing Charms prevented their crying from being annoying.
again, and a young boy fell out of it, rolling over the floor. Rabastan didn’t
bother waiting until the muggle could stand up. Two spells had the child stuck
to the wall while the rest of the urchins arrived through the Floo, none of
them displaying even the least hint of grace. It was very fortunate that
Silencing Charms prevented their crying from being annoying.
By the time Dolohov stepped through the Floo, two dozen of the little animals
were covering the walls and floors of the shop, some of them still futilely
trying to free themselves as if their weak limbs could overcome magic.
were covering the walls and floors of the shop, some of them still futilely
trying to free themselves as if their weak limbs could overcome magic.
A dozen of the recruits Dolohov and Yaxley had brought with them from the
continent followed, a number of them shifting around, obviously unfamiliar
with the robes they were wearing. Then came Yaxley himself, carrying four
rolled-up carpets.
continent followed, a number of them shifting around, obviously unfamiliar
with the robes they were wearing. Then came Yaxley himself, carrying four
rolled-up carpets.
Voldemort smiled. All was ready.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 1st, 1997**
“Not much going on,” Ron Weasley said, looking around the twins’ shop.
“I know.” Fred, sitting behind the counter, sighed, spreading his hands.
“People need to laugh more, especially right now, but they’re too scared. We
have products that can make anyone laugh!”
“People need to laugh more, especially right now, but they’re too scared. We
have products that can make anyone laugh!”
Family loyalty, and the desire to avoid serving as a test subject for his
brothers’ next product, kept Ron from pointing out that many of the twins’
products were not that funny for the victim. “With Dumbledore dead, people are
expecting the Dark Lord to attack any day now. The Alley looks almost
deserted,” he added, looking out through one of the store’s windows.
brothers’ next product, kept Ron from pointing out that many of the twins’
products were not that funny for the victim. “With Dumbledore dead, people are
expecting the Dark Lord to attack any day now. The Alley looks almost
deserted,” he added, looking out through one of the store’s windows.
“It hasn’t changed that much,” Fred said, standing up and joining him at the
forefront of the shop’s main room. ‘People have been avoiding walking in the
Alley for a while — noticeably since summer, and even more so since some
muggleborns dropped fire bombs on people.’ He chuckled. “We’ve had customers
who wanted to use the Floo to enter, and to move to the next shop.”
forefront of the shop’s main room. ‘People have been avoiding walking in the
Alley for a while — noticeably since summer, and even more so since some
muggleborns dropped fire bombs on people.’ He chuckled. “We’ve had customers
who wanted to use the Floo to enter, and to move to the next shop.”
“That’d be a terrible idea,” Ron said, shaking his head. “All your protections
could be bypassed like that. Did you check who made such a request? It could
have been an agent of the Dark Lord.”
could be bypassed like that. Did you check who made such a request? It could
have been an agent of the Dark Lord.”
Fred laughed, briefly. “Is that Hermione’s influence? You didn’t use to be
so…”
so…”
“… suspicious?” Ron shrugged. “It’s Moody’s training, actually. He encourages
paranoia.”
paranoia.”
Fred winced. “I’ve met him.”
Ron snorted. “You haven’t really met him until he’s been training you. If
Pomfrey knew how often Harry and I were hurt in his lessons, she’d curse him
so bad, he’d need another peg leg.” He noticed Fred was staring at him in a
weird way. “What?”
Pomfrey knew how often Harry and I were hurt in his lessons, she’d curse him
so bad, he’d need another peg leg.” He noticed Fred was staring at him in a
weird way. “What?”
“You’ve changed.”
Ron waited, but Fred didn’t go on. “Well, we’re in a war. Everyone changes.”
He didn’t have to say that he had killed; his brother was well aware of that
fact, as was his entire family.
He didn’t have to say that he had killed; his brother was well aware of that
fact, as was his entire family.
Once the silence had grown uncomfortable, Fred spoke up again. “So, what
brings you to us when you should be at Hogwarts?”
brings you to us when you should be at Hogwarts?”
Ron laughed. “Dad said that he doesn’t think we’ll get used to Hogwarts’ rules
again, even once the war ends.” Strangely, his brother didn’t seem to think
that that was funny. Ron cleared his throat. “Anyway, I’m here because I need
some of your inventions. We want to improve security at Hogwarts.” Some of the
twins’ products, like the Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder, would give even a
First Year a chance to escape a Death Eater. And Ron knew his brothers had
created things that were not quite as harmless. Of course, he was planning to
see Hermione before returning to the school, too.
again, even once the war ends.” Strangely, his brother didn’t seem to think
that that was funny. Ron cleared his throat. “Anyway, I’m here because I need
some of your inventions. We want to improve security at Hogwarts.” Some of the
twins’ products, like the Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder, would give even a
First Year a chance to escape a Death Eater. And Ron knew his brothers had
created things that were not quite as harmless. Of course, he was planning to
see Hermione before returning to the school, too.
“For free, I suppose?”
Fred was smiling, though Ron didn’t think he was entirely joking — no
customers was a bad thing for any shop. So he shook his head. “Harry’ll cover
it.” Or Sirius.
customers was a bad thing for any shop. So he shook his head. “Harry’ll cover
it.” Or Sirius.
“Where is our illustrious Boy-Who-Lived, anyway?”
Ron sighed. “He’s showing the flag at Hogwarts.”
“Really?” Fred looked doubtful.
“Well, he has a harder time sneaking away, with the rumour that he’ll defeat
the Dark Lord going around.” Ron shrugged. “And Sirius likes him safe at
Hogwarts.”
the Dark Lord going around.” Ron shrugged. “And Sirius likes him safe at
Hogwarts.”
Fred laughed. “I bet he hates that.”
“He does, but what can you do?” Ron shrugged. Harry was crucial for the plan
to defeat Voldemort.
to defeat Voldemort.
Something moved on the street outside, and Ron turned around. That was… “A
flying carpet?” He stared. “Aren’t they banned?”
flying carpet?” He stared. “Aren’t they banned?”
“There’s another one, behind it,” Fred said, “And… there are children on it.”
Children who, Ron noticed, were looking far too frightened for this to be
harmless. And they were wearing muggle clothes too.
harmless. And they were wearing muggle clothes too.
He was already sprinting to the fireplace when Fred yelled: “Death Eaters in
the Alley!”
the Alley!”
Ron grabbed some Floo powder and threw it inside. “Grimmauld Place!” he
yelled, but the flames didn’t turn green. “Floo travel’s blocked!” he shouted
to Fred. The door to the backroom was thrown open, and Ron almost hexed George
before he recognised him.
yelled, but the flames didn’t turn green. “Floo travel’s blocked!” he shouted
to Fred. The door to the backroom was thrown open, and Ron almost hexed George
before he recognised him.
“Apparition’s blocked too… and the wards are under attack!”
“They’ll hold them back long enough… Merlin’s balls! That’s the Dark Lord out
there!”
there!”
Ron felt a cold shiver run down his spine. Voldemort, here in the Alley —
there were not many targets for him, and the twins’ shop was the most
prominent one.
there were not many targets for him, and the twins’ shop was the most
prominent one.
“Alright, don’t panic!” George yelled, sounding quite panicked himself. “We’ve
prepared for this.”
prepared for this.”
While his brothers ran around, pulling all sorts of things from shelves, Ron
pulled out Hermione’s mirror. They needed to get the word out. Harry had to
know.
pulled out Hermione’s mirror. They needed to get the word out. Harry had to
know.
---
**London, East End, February 1st, 1997**
“Hermione! The Dark Lord’s attacking Diagon Alley! Call Sirius and inform
Harry!”
Harry!”
Hermione Granger gasped, her smile at seeing Ron in the mirror dying on her
lips when she heard his words. Her first thought was that the attack they had
been waiting for had finally come. Her second was that this could be a trap.
But they had to react anyway. A flick of her wand opened her door, and
assisted by an Amplifying Charm, she alerted the rest of the Resistance.
“Voldemort’s attacking Diagon Alley! Get ready to move out at once!”
lips when she heard his words. Her first thought was that the attack they had
been waiting for had finally come. Her second was that this could be a trap.
But they had to react anyway. A flick of her wand opened her door, and
assisted by an Amplifying Charm, she alerted the rest of the Resistance.
“Voldemort’s attacking Diagon Alley! Get ready to move out at once!”
She dropped the mirror on the bed and pulled out Sirius’s mirror. “Sirius!”
she yelled while she hastily changed into fatigues. Fortunately, Harry’s
godfather didn’t take long to answer.
she yelled while she hastily changed into fatigues. Fortunately, Harry’s
godfather didn’t take long to answer.
“Hermione?”
“Voldemort’s attacking the twins’ shop!” Hermione yelled. “Ron’s there and
talking through his mirror.”
talking through his mirror.”
“… about a dozen of them, and the Dark Lord. The wards are holding, but they
won’t last forever,” Hermione heard Ron go on. “Blimey! He’s got hostages,
kids on flying carpets! Over a dozen!”
won’t last forever,” Hermione heard Ron go on. “Blimey! He’s got hostages,
kids on flying carpets! Over a dozen!”
Hermione froze for a moment. Hostages? Children? Where had the Dark Lord found
so many… Muggles! “Are they wearing muggle clothes?” she asked, pulling on her
boots and tying the laces with a quick charm. They had to be muggles — just
about all of the wizard children were either at Hogwarts, or hiding with their
families.
so many… Muggles! “Are they wearing muggle clothes?” she asked, pulling on her
boots and tying the laces with a quick charm. They had to be muggles — just
about all of the wizard children were either at Hogwarts, or hiding with their
families.
“Let me check… Yes. Looks like they’re muggles. Blimey! He’s torn up the
street across from us!”
street across from us!”
“Don’t linger!” Hermione yelled, grabbing her rifle and the mirrors. “Sirius!
We’re apparating to Grimmauld Place at once!”
We’re apparating to Grimmauld Place at once!”
She rushed out of her room. Justin met her outside, just slipping into his
rifle’s sling. Behind him, Sally-Anne left his room, struggling with her
harness. “Where are we going?” he asked.
rifle’s sling. Behind him, Sally-Anne left his room, struggling with her
harness. “Where are we going?” he asked.
“Grimmauld Place. We’re linking up with the Order and the French.”
---
**Hogwarts, February 1st, 1997**
“Harry! Death Eaters are attacking Diagon Alley. Hermione called me.” Harry
Potter stared at Sirius’s image in the communication mirror. And to think he
had been glad for the distraction just a moment ago, when he had felt the
communication mirror vibrate in his pocket and had slipped out of the common
room to activate it.
Potter stared at Sirius’s image in the communication mirror. And to think he
had been glad for the distraction just a moment ago, when he had felt the
communication mirror vibrate in his pocket and had slipped out of the common
room to activate it.
“We’re gathering at Grimmauld Place!” Sirius said. “Hurry!”
Harry was already running. The next Floo connection was in McGonagall’s
office, but… he sprinted through the common room.
office, but… he sprinted through the common room.
“Harry! What’s happening?”
He ignored Neville’s yell. The infirmary’s Floo connection was not as close as
McGonagall’s, but if she wasn’t in her office he wouldn’t be able to enter.
McGonagall’s, but if she wasn’t in her office he wouldn’t be able to enter.
“Harry!”
Neville was running after him, but Harry had no time to explain, much less
argue with the boy why he wasn’t ready to come with him. He pulled out his
shrunken broom without stopping. A few seconds later, he was flying through
the hallways — close to the ceiling, so he wouldn’t ram anyone in his path.
argue with the boy why he wasn’t ready to come with him. He pulled out his
shrunken broom without stopping. A few seconds later, he was flying through
the hallways — close to the ceiling, so he wouldn’t ram anyone in his path.
An Auror was standing guard outside the infirmary. Harry thought he had been a
Hufflepuff two years above him. Maybe one of Cedric’s friends. He couldn’t
remember his name, though.
Hufflepuff two years above him. Maybe one of Cedric’s friends. He couldn’t
remember his name, though.
“Stop!” The wizard was was belatedly drawing his wand.
If this had been an attack, Harry could have cursed the man twice over. Moody
would have fun training that one, Harry thought, jumping off the broom right
in front of the man. “Medical emergency!” he yelled.
would have fun training that one, Harry thought, jumping off the broom right
in front of the man. “Medical emergency!” he yelled.
The Auror blinked, gaping at him while he slipped through the door. Moody
wouldn’t have fun, Harry corrected himself. He’d be spitting mad.
wouldn’t have fun, Harry corrected himself. He’d be spitting mad.
He reached the fireplace and grabbed some Floo Powder. “Sirius! I’m coming
through!” he said to the mirror. “Grimmauld Place!”
through!” he said to the mirror. “Grimmauld Place!”
A moment later, he stumbled out of the fireplace into the entrance hall of
Grimmauld Place. Sirius was in the centre of the room, next to Delacour,
surrounded by Order members — mostly the Weasleys — and French wizards and
witches. Moody was there, too. And Aberforth Dumbledore. As far as he could
tell, pretty much all of the Order members left — at least those able to fight
— were present. But where was…? Harry looked around. He couldn’t spot… there!
Hermione and the rest of the Resistance entered through the door. They must
have apparated, he thought. He couldn’t spot Ron, though. Hadn’t he planned to
meet Hermione? Then he hissed — Ron had said he’d visit the twins first!
Grimmauld Place. Sirius was in the centre of the room, next to Delacour,
surrounded by Order members — mostly the Weasleys — and French wizards and
witches. Moody was there, too. And Aberforth Dumbledore. As far as he could
tell, pretty much all of the Order members left — at least those able to fight
— were present. But where was…? Harry looked around. He couldn’t spot… there!
Hermione and the rest of the Resistance entered through the door. They must
have apparated, he thought. He couldn’t spot Ron, though. Hadn’t he planned to
meet Hermione? Then he hissed — Ron had said he’d visit the twins first!
“Harry!”
That was Sirius calling him. Harry went to his godfather while the wizard
addressed the room. “Alright. The Dark Lord’s attacking Diagon Alley — focused
on Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. He has about a dozen Death Eaters with him, and
twice that number of hostages — children stuck to flying carpets.”
addressed the room. “Alright. The Dark Lord’s attacking Diagon Alley — focused
on Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes. He has about a dozen Death Eaters with him, and
twice that number of hostages — children stuck to flying carpets.”
Harry wasn’t the only one who gasped upon hearing that. Molly Weasley was
particularly loud.
particularly loud.
“Aurors are engaging them already, and the shop’s wards are holding — the Dark
Lord hasn’t risked taking them down himself so far — but neither the Aurors
nor the wards will last that long. We’ll take the Floo to the Leaky Cauldron,
and then hit them from the air and from the ground, from all directions. With
the hostages, we can’t just blow them up, so we’ll have to be careful. Unless
you’re ordered to, don’t engage the Dark Lord — leave that to those who have
been preparing for this. Stick with your group, and stay alive!”
Lord hasn’t risked taking them down himself so far — but neither the Aurors
nor the wards will last that long. We’ll take the Floo to the Leaky Cauldron,
and then hit them from the air and from the ground, from all directions. With
the hostages, we can’t just blow them up, so we’ll have to be careful. Unless
you’re ordered to, don’t engage the Dark Lord — leave that to those who have
been preparing for this. Stick with your group, and stay alive!”
Harry swallowed, trying not to show how nervous he was. This was it. He’d face
Voldemort. All he had to do was get close enough to use Legilimency.
Voldemort. All he had to do was get close enough to use Legilimency.
The French were already at the fireplace, taking the vanguard, as usual,
followed by the Order members. The Resistance would apparently be the last to
leave. While a short line was forming, Harry walked over to Hermione. She was
glancing at a mirror. At Ron. He was alive and well!
followed by the Order members. The Resistance would apparently be the last to
leave. While a short line was forming, Harry walked over to Hermione. She was
glancing at a mirror. At Ron. He was alive and well!
“Hurry up!” he heard his friend yell. “The building’s shaking already.”
“We’re coming,” Hermione said, staring at the mirror with a grim expression.
Harry wanted to hug her, wanted to talk to Ron, but Sirius started to usher
the Resistance through the fireplace before he could do either. All he managed
was to briefly squeeze Hermione’s hand.
the Resistance through the fireplace before he could do either. All he managed
was to briefly squeeze Hermione’s hand.
Then they stepped through the fireplace.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 1st, 1997**
Ron Weasley stopped casting, horrified, when a Blasting Curse struck a flying
carpet, shredding it and the six children stuck to it. Who had… there! The
curse had been cast by an Auror advancing on the Death Eater position.
carpet, shredding it and the six children stuck to it. Who had… there! The
curse had been cast by an Auror advancing on the Death Eater position.
Ron wasn’t the only one to spot him — before he could say anything, the man
was banished into a wall next to the shop with so much force, he left a
bloodstain on the bricks when he slid down to the ground. A second later, the
man’s chest exploded, blood and gore splattering the cobblestones.
was banished into a wall next to the shop with so much force, he left a
bloodstain on the bricks when he slid down to the ground. A second later, the
man’s chest exploded, blood and gore splattering the cobblestones.
Fred, crouching at the door, cast a curse at the Death Eater who had killed
the man, but missed as the dark wizard stepped behind an overturned cart.
Ron’s own Reductor Curse hit the cart, but didn’t do much damage — it had been
turned into solid stone, he noticed. He was tempted to use a Blasting Curse,
turn the thing into deadly shrapnel, but… he glanced at another floating
carpet nearby. He couldn’t.
the man, but missed as the dark wizard stepped behind an overturned cart.
Ron’s own Reductor Curse hit the cart, but didn’t do much damage — it had been
turned into solid stone, he noticed. He was tempted to use a Blasting Curse,
turn the thing into deadly shrapnel, but… he glanced at another floating
carpet nearby. He couldn’t.
George arrived, with two floating stacks of rockets trailing behind him.
“Let’s see how they like this!” he yelled, lining them up with a flick of his
wand.
“Let’s see how they like this!” he yelled, lining them up with a flick of his
wand.
“No! You’ll hurt the hostages!” Ron yelled. The children were stuck to the
carpets and couldn’t flee — and couldn’t be summoned to safety either.
carpets and couldn’t flee — and couldn’t be summoned to safety either.
“Don’t worry,” his brother bared his teeth, lighting the fuses. “It’s not
going to hurt anyone… technically.”
going to hurt anyone… technically.”
What good would they do then? Ron thought, then ducked as the rockets shot out
of the shop, towards the stone bunker shielding the Death Eaters attacking the
wards. A second later, he saw the rockets blow up into thick, fluorescent
smoke.
of the shop, towards the stone bunker shielding the Death Eaters attacking the
wards. A second later, he saw the rockets blow up into thick, fluorescent
smoke.
“Poison?” he asked, glancing at George. That would certainly harm the
hostages.
hostages.
“Not the deadly kind!” George grinned. “I loaded them with our puking
pastilles!”
pastilles!”
All of them knew that the odds of catching a Death Eater without a Bubble-Head
Charm up were slim, but the enemy wouldn’t know what the rockets did, so it
should at least distract them. It was quite ironic, Ron thought — the twins
had spent a long time weaponising their products, turning pranks into lethal
devices in preparation for such an attack, and now they were forced to rely on
their harmless products, or they’d kill the muggle hostages. Of course, used
correctly, even pranks could be deadly, he added to himself, with a glance at
the corpse of a Death Eater who had been caught out of cover with a Freezing
Frisbee. The ten seconds he had been held immobile had been more than enough
to kill the dark wizard with Piercing Curses.
Charm up were slim, but the enemy wouldn’t know what the rockets did, so it
should at least distract them. It was quite ironic, Ron thought — the twins
had spent a long time weaponising their products, turning pranks into lethal
devices in preparation for such an attack, and now they were forced to rely on
their harmless products, or they’d kill the muggle hostages. Of course, used
correctly, even pranks could be deadly, he added to himself, with a glance at
the corpse of a Death Eater who had been caught out of cover with a Freezing
Frisbee. The ten seconds he had been held immobile had been more than enough
to kill the dark wizard with Piercing Curses.
But that was just one of the attackers, and there were too many left. And the
Dark Lord. If not for a handful of Aurors attacking, the wards would probably
have been shredded already. Instead, the Aurors had been shredded — Ron could
see three more red-robed corpses on the street.
Dark Lord. If not for a handful of Aurors attacking, the wards would probably
have been shredded already. Instead, the Aurors had been shredded — Ron could
see three more red-robed corpses on the street.
He wasn’t feeling too sorry for them, though — not after that Blasting Curse.
Ron shivered, glancing at the grisly remains.
Ron shivered, glancing at the grisly remains.
Then he ducked, involuntarily, when another Blasting Curse hit the street
right in front of the shop, at the wardline, and the building shook again.
right in front of the shop, at the wardline, and the building shook again.
“We should retreat,” George said. “The wards won’t hold much longer.”
They had reinforced the walls and door, but that would not offer much
protection. Not against a dozen Death Eaters, much less against Voldemort. Ron
shook his head anyway. “No. We need to keep them here, attacking us. Help is
on the way.”
protection. Not against a dozen Death Eaters, much less against Voldemort. Ron
shook his head anyway. “No. We need to keep them here, attacking us. Help is
on the way.”
“You’ve been telling us that for a long time now!” Fred said, casting a few
more curses.
more curses.
“Just a few minutes,” Ron corrected him while his own curse drove a Death
Eater back into cover.
Eater back into cover.
“We might not have that much longer!” George said, summoning a bundle of
Screaming Screwdrivers from a shelf in the back.
Screaming Screwdrivers from a shelf in the back.
“They’re coming!” Ron said. Hermione had told him through the mirror. They
were not yet in the Alley, though. He reached into his enchanted pocket and
pulled out a small flask, another trinket left to him by the Headmaster. It
wasn’t quite harmless, but if he used it correctly, then it shouldn’t harm the
hostages. Or himself. And it would buy them time. But if he made a mistake… he
took a deep breath. He should have used it right away, when no one but the
Death Eaters had been in the Alley.
were not yet in the Alley, though. He reached into his enchanted pocket and
pulled out a small flask, another trinket left to him by the Headmaster. It
wasn’t quite harmless, but if he used it correctly, then it shouldn’t harm the
hostages. Or himself. And it would buy them time. But if he made a mistake… he
took a deep breath. He should have used it right away, when no one but the
Death Eaters had been in the Alley.
“Brace yourself!” he said. Then he broke the seal.
---
The Dark Lord Voldemort was growing impatient. Even without his help, his
Death Eaters should have taken down the wards of that blood traitor shop by
now. This was taking too long! At least, though, he had only lost one of his
followers to the defenders’ curses — given the competency the new recruits had
displayed, that was already a success, even with those boys hampered by the
hostages.
Death Eaters should have taken down the wards of that blood traitor shop by
now. This was taking too long! At least, though, he had only lost one of his
followers to the defenders’ curses — given the competency the new recruits had
displayed, that was already a success, even with those boys hampered by the
hostages.
They’d learn, though, or they’d die.
A speck of red caught his attention — another Auror? He waved his wand, and
the street corner the figure had dashed behind vanished. The Auror stared at
him, gaping, instead of moving, and Voldemort’s Killing Curse struck him in
the chest.
the street corner the figure had dashed behind vanished. The Auror stared at
him, gaping, instead of moving, and Voldemort’s Killing Curse struck him in
the chest.
That was the sixth dead Auror — they were displaying an appalling lack of
skill. He was wondering if the one who had killed half a dozen of the muggle
children had done so to strip him of the protection the hostages granted, or
had simply mistaken them for Death Eaters. Once he was ruling Britain,
standards for Aurors would be raised considerably.
skill. He was wondering if the one who had killed half a dozen of the muggle
children had done so to strip him of the protection the hostages granted, or
had simply mistaken them for Death Eaters. Once he was ruling Britain,
standards for Aurors would be raised considerably.
He glanced at the stone bunker protecting his Curse-Breakers — or rather,
those of his followers claiming to be Curse-Breakers. The three wizards had
clearly overstated their experience. He told himself that it didn’t matter —
the wards would not last forever, and the shop was, ultimately, not that
important, as long as it served to attract his enemies so they could be
slaughtered. And with two buildings burning, and the blood traitors trapped,
his enemies had to react.
those of his followers claiming to be Curse-Breakers. The three wizards had
clearly overstated their experience. He told himself that it didn’t matter —
the wards would not last forever, and the shop was, ultimately, not that
important, as long as it served to attract his enemies so they could be
slaughtered. And with two buildings burning, and the blood traitors trapped,
his enemies had to react.
He checked the sky, still obscured by thick clouds of smoke, and smiled. That
would hinder his enemies, too. More than they believed — they wouldn’t be able
to see through it either, unlike himself.
would hinder his enemies, too. More than they believed — they wouldn’t be able
to see through it either, unlike himself.
A loud roar made him whirl around in time to see a huge blue figure shoot out
from the joke shop. A Marid, here? He definitely had underestimated those
blood traitors. To use a bound genie showed both their skill and nerve. Genies
served only if forced to, and would take any opportunity to betray their
master.
from the joke shop. A Marid, here? He definitely had underestimated those
blood traitors. To use a bound genie showed both their skill and nerve. Genies
served only if forced to, and would take any opportunity to betray their
master.
They were fierce fighters, though, and hard to hurt with magic. A swish with
his wand reinforced the defences of his followers, just in time to absorb a
crushing wave of water slamming into them. The mass of water rebounded, then
formed deceptively slim tendrils which struck at the stone walls with enough
force to send splinters flying. And they were making their way around the
obstacles, probing for weaknesses. A shriek told him that one had found a gap,
and struck a Death Eater. He sneered — as weak as his new recruits were, he
needed them.
his wand reinforced the defences of his followers, just in time to absorb a
crushing wave of water slamming into them. The mass of water rebounded, then
formed deceptively slim tendrils which struck at the stone walls with enough
force to send splinters flying. And they were making their way around the
obstacles, probing for weaknesses. A shriek told him that one had found a gap,
and struck a Death Eater. He sneered — as weak as his new recruits were, he
needed them.
“Avada Kedavra! Avada Kedavra!”
Water conjured and controlled by the genie intercepted his curses, exploding
into clouds of steam and obscuring the Marid from Voldemort’s view — and
himself from the genie’s. Long enough to send another volley of curses at it.
into clouds of steam and obscuring the Marid from Voldemort’s view — and
himself from the genie’s. Long enough to send another volley of curses at it.
Those two were blocked by water tendrils, but the genie was now on the
defensive. Voldemort glanced at Rabastan, but his follower had anticipated his
plan, and was already flanking the creature with his brother.
defensive. Voldemort glanced at Rabastan, but his follower had anticipated his
plan, and was already flanking the creature with his brother.
The genie managed to dodge and block their curses as well — a truly formidable
example of its kind — but in doing so, it spent more of the water it
controlled. And to conjure more, it would have to focus — and greatly reduce
its ability to block more curses. It had to know this as well, since it
suddenly struck out with all its tendrils at the Lestranges, obviously trying
to overwhelm them. Rabastan was struck, but his Shield Charm held, even while
he was thrown back, while Rodolphus managed to roll away, but had to take
cover.
example of its kind — but in doing so, it spent more of the water it
controlled. And to conjure more, it would have to focus — and greatly reduce
its ability to block more curses. It had to know this as well, since it
suddenly struck out with all its tendrils at the Lestranges, obviously trying
to overwhelm them. Rabastan was struck, but his Shield Charm held, even while
he was thrown back, while Rodolphus managed to roll away, but had to take
cover.
But in doing so, the genie had offered an opening to Voldemort — and he didn’t
lose any time exploiting it. He sent a volley of curses at it, striking the
remaining water tendrils, disrupting them long enough for another curse to hit
the genie. It started to shriek at once, writhing in pain, arms clawing at its
back, where a dark stain was spreading.
lose any time exploiting it. He sent a volley of curses at it, striking the
remaining water tendrils, disrupting them long enough for another curse to hit
the genie. It started to shriek at once, writhing in pain, arms clawing at its
back, where a dark stain was spreading.
Voldemort was almost disappointed that the Lestrange brothers killed the genie
before he could see his curse run its course, but he couldn’t fault them for
being efficient. They were his most effective followers.
before he could see his curse run its course, but he couldn’t fault them for
being efficient. They were his most effective followers.
Despite the victory over the creature, he was annoyed. After seeing such magic
used against him, it was clear that he could not afford to leave the shop and
move on towards the Leaky Cauldron. He had to keep the shop bottled up. On the
other hand… He turned his attention to the Alley again. The Ministry forces
should arrive any moment, provided they had deployed as quickly as possible.
If he could decimate their best, those who’d never surrender anyway, and rout
the remaining forces, then the Ministry would be too weakened to further
resist him.
used against him, it was clear that he could not afford to leave the shop and
move on towards the Leaky Cauldron. He had to keep the shop bottled up. On the
other hand… He turned his attention to the Alley again. The Ministry forces
should arrive any moment, provided they had deployed as quickly as possible.
If he could decimate their best, those who’d never surrender anyway, and rout
the remaining forces, then the Ministry would be too weakened to further
resist him.
---
The Leaky Cauldron was full of panicking wizards and witches, Hermione Granger
noticed when she walked out of the fireplace. Two Aurors were herding them
through the exit to muggle London. They could have simply apparated, she
thought — magical travel wasn’t blocked in this part of the Alley. Yet. But
then, they’d probably splinch themselves in their state.
noticed when she walked out of the fireplace. Two Aurors were herding them
through the exit to muggle London. They could have simply apparated, she
thought — magical travel wasn’t blocked in this part of the Alley. Yet. But
then, they’d probably splinch themselves in their state.
It wasn’t her problem, anyway. The French were already out of the pub — she
had tried to tell them not to be quite as aggressive, but even after the
horrific casualties they had taken in the Ministry, the Delacours had not been
willing ‘to abandon two centuries of tradition’.
had tried to tell them not to be quite as aggressive, but even after the
horrific casualties they had taken in the Ministry, the Delacours had not been
willing ‘to abandon two centuries of tradition’.
The Order members were moving as well, Ron’s parents leading them — with some
exceptions. She saw Aberforth and Moody waiting to the side, together with
Sirius and Harry.
exceptions. She saw Aberforth and Moody waiting to the side, together with
Sirius and Harry.
Hermione turned to the Resistance. “We’ll use the brooms to fly around them
and hit them from the other side. Louise, Jeremy — you’re front. Tania, John,
fire support. Seamus, you’re with me behind them. Justin and Sally-Anne,
you’re bringing up the rear. Mary-Jane, you’re on evac duty — summon and
levitate the wounded.” The witch would be most useful in that function — she
lacked the training to fight effectively.
and hit them from the other side. Louise, Jeremy — you’re front. Tania, John,
fire support. Seamus, you’re with me behind them. Justin and Sally-Anne,
you’re bringing up the rear. Mary-Jane, you’re on evac duty — summon and
levitate the wounded.” The witch would be most useful in that function — she
lacked the training to fight effectively.
This wouldn’t be like the Ministry, she told herself. They had trained for
such missions. And they knew the area. But a small voice in the back of her
head kept reminding her that they were once again rushing into a battle
without proper planning.
such missions. And they knew the area. But a small voice in the back of her
head kept reminding her that they were once again rushing into a battle
without proper planning.
“We’re at the Leaky Cauldron,” she said to the mirror. “We’re taking off now!
In a lower voice, barely more than a whisper, she added:” Love you.”
In a lower voice, barely more than a whisper, she added:” Love you.”
She saw Ron smile for a moment, but she stashed the mirror before she could
hear his answer.
hear his answer.
Then she stepped into the yard behind the pub, and pulled out her broom from
her pocket. A tap with her wand unshrank it, and she straddled it. “Let’s go!”
her pocket. A tap with her wand unshrank it, and she straddled it. “Let’s go!”
Louise and Jeremy were already in the air, taking the lead. Hermione saw smoke
rising from a burning building — not the twins’ shop, but close. A lot of
smoke, actually — she couldn’t see the ground in the area. They wouldn’t be
able to take advantage of their rifles’ range, she thought, unless they
managed to clear the smoke.
rising from a burning building — not the twins’ shop, but close. A lot of
smoke, actually — she couldn’t see the ground in the area. They wouldn’t be
able to take advantage of their rifles’ range, she thought, unless they
managed to clear the smoke.
But that would take too long with the spells she knew. The two former
Hit-Wizards were already half-way to the landing zone. Too eager, she thought,
especially Jeremy, who should still be resting. But they needed everyone.
Hit-Wizards were already half-way to the landing zone. Too eager, she thought,
especially Jeremy, who should still be resting. But they needed everyone.
She swerved to the side, giving the area where she could see spells flashing
through the smoke a wider berth. They weren’t the only ones in the air, she
noticed. An Auror was ahead of them, sending a spell at the ground. She hoped
he could see his target, and wasn’t just casting blindly.
through the smoke a wider berth. They weren’t the only ones in the air, she
noticed. An Auror was ahead of them, sending a spell at the ground. She hoped
he could see his target, and wasn’t just casting blindly.
The man banked to the left, avoiding a green curse that shot up from the
ground, and disappeared into the smoke. Then he reappeared — flailing on his
broom, which was descending rapidly.
ground, and disappeared into the smoke. Then he reappeared — flailing on his
broom, which was descending rapidly.
“The smoke’s enchanted!” Hermione yelled, watching the man crash into a roof.
“Don’t touch it!”
“Don’t touch it!”
Ahead of her, Louise and Jeremy were pulling away sharply, putting more
distance between them and the smoke. It could be poison, she thought. Or maybe
a cursed mist or fog — she had read about such spells, but usually they were
used in traps.
distance between them and the smoke. It could be poison, she thought. Or maybe
a cursed mist or fog — she had read about such spells, but usually they were
used in traps.
In any case, they had no time to examine it. She pulled her mirror out again —
she had to warn Sirius and Harry.
she had to warn Sirius and Harry.
---
“…the smoke is a trap, don’t touch it!”
Harry Potter flinched, hearing Hermione’s voice from Sirius’s mirror. He
hadn’t been planning to simply rush in on his Firebolt, straight at the Dark
Lord, but he had kept it in mind as a last resort. And he had thought about
using the smoke as cover…
hadn’t been planning to simply rush in on his Firebolt, straight at the Dark
Lord, but he had kept it in mind as a last resort. And he had thought about
using the smoke as cover…
“Don’t touch the smoke!” Sirius’s voice rang out over the Alley, thanks to an
Amplifying Charm. Of course, Harry thought, Vivienne and her cousin would be
flying!
Amplifying Charm. Of course, Harry thought, Vivienne and her cousin would be
flying!
They were running towards the twins’ shop, right behind Moody and Aberforth.
Ahead of them, Harry saw flashes of spells coming from the roofs — the French
were already engaging the Death Eaters. And the Dark Lord.
Ahead of them, Harry saw flashes of spells coming from the roofs — the French
were already engaging the Death Eaters. And the Dark Lord.
In front of them, Moody stopped at the last corner before the twins’ shop.
“They’ve dug in!” he said, without looking around the corner — his enchanted
eye could see through it, Harry knew — “and they’re covering the approaches!”
“They’ve dug in!” he said, without looking around the corner — his enchanted
eye could see through it, Harry knew — “and they’re covering the approaches!”
Harry saw a red-robed corpse on the ground, close to the corner, and nodded.
They couldn’t get close enough. Not without cover — or a distraction. Or… he
looked up, to the roof. They would provide some cover, and they could…
They couldn’t get close enough. Not without cover — or a distraction. Or… he
looked up, to the roof. They would provide some cover, and they could…
A gargling scream made him look at the next building, and he saw one of the
Delacours stumble and slip on the shingles, sliding down the slope, then
falling off. A Cushioning Charm cast by Sirius stopped him from crashing on
the cobblestones, but the man kept flailing and thrashing around, then
suddenly grew still.
Delacours stumble and slip on the shingles, sliding down the slope, then
falling off. A Cushioning Charm cast by Sirius stopped him from crashing on
the cobblestones, but the man kept flailing and thrashing around, then
suddenly grew still.
The smoke was touching the roof above them, Harry realised. Before he could
react, though, Aberforth raised his wand and a gust of wind shot up, pushing
the billowing cloud back up.
react, though, Aberforth raised his wand and a gust of wind shot up, pushing
the billowing cloud back up.
“Can you get rid of it?” Moody asked.
“Would take too long,” the old wizard answered.
“Too dangerous to go over the roofs, then,” Moody said. For the first time
since they had reached the corner, he turned his head to look at them. At
Harry. “They’re covering the side-alleys too. The French have already lost
half their number, and with the smoke, the muggleborns can’t shoot them from
afar. This’ll be messy.”
since they had reached the corner, he turned his head to look at them. At
Harry. “They’re covering the side-alleys too. The French have already lost
half their number, and with the smoke, the muggleborns can’t shoot them from
afar. This’ll be messy.”
“We can go through the buildings,” Sirius said.
“Three of them are burning,” Moody said, “and two more have collapsed. But
it’s the best option.”
it’s the best option.”
“He’ll be expecting that,” Aberforth said.
“We’ll go first,” Moody said, staring at the other wizard.
After a moment, Aberforth nodded.
---
A frontal assault was the worst way to attack an enemy position, Hermione
Granger knew that. But between the deadly smoke and the burning buildings, the
Resistance didn’t have any other option. And they couldn’t wait — the Order
and, of course, the French were already fighting. And dying.
Granger knew that. But between the deadly smoke and the burning buildings, the
Resistance didn’t have any other option. And they couldn’t wait — the Order
and, of course, the French were already fighting. And dying.
“Watch your fire — they are using children as human shields!” she said into
her radio, sprinting after Louise and Jeremy, with Seamus close on her heels.
She flicked her wand, raising walls and boulders in the street to provide them
with cover.
her radio, sprinting after Louise and Jeremy, with Seamus close on her heels.
She flicked her wand, raising walls and boulders in the street to provide them
with cover.
Behind her, Tania started firing her machine gun from the first floor of a
shop. Justin had entered the building across from her, but hadn’t reached a
firing spot yet. John was crouching behind a low wall, providing covering
fire. She couldn’t see Sally-Anne or Mary-Jane — they were preparing a safe
spot to treat the wounded.
shop. Justin had entered the building across from her, but hadn’t reached a
firing spot yet. John was crouching behind a low wall, providing covering
fire. She couldn’t see Sally-Anne or Mary-Jane — they were preparing a safe
spot to treat the wounded.
Rolling behind some conjured cover, a bit too close to a burning building for
her comfort, she glanced up. If the smoke started to sink down, they’d have to
react at once. She sent a gust of wind at it, just in case. “Keep casting at
the smoke, to prevent it from setting down on us!” she said into the radio.
One of the boulders she had conjured exploded, and she pressed herself into
the ground when splinters rained down on her. Seamus grunted, next to her.
her comfort, she glanced up. If the smoke started to sink down, they’d have to
react at once. She sent a gust of wind at it, just in case. “Keep casting at
the smoke, to prevent it from setting down on us!” she said into the radio.
One of the boulders she had conjured exploded, and she pressed herself into
the ground when splinters rained down on her. Seamus grunted, next to her.
“Are you hurt?” she yelled.
“No!”
She stood up and flicked her wand, raising more walls ahead of them. “Go!”
Seamus hadn’t waited for her signal and was already running. She followed him,
raising another wall on the side — mostly as a distraction and to conceal
their movements. It wouldn’t stand up to the Dark Lord’s spells for long.
raising another wall on the side — mostly as a distraction and to conceal
their movements. It wouldn’t stand up to the Dark Lord’s spells for long.
And it didn’t. It started to explode behind her, the last parts blowing up
while she slid behind the rubble from a collapsed house. A few yards away she
saw the body of an Auror, chest torn open.
while she slid behind the rubble from a collapsed house. A few yards away she
saw the body of an Auror, chest torn open.
Louise and Jeremy were working their way even closer to the Death Eaters,
through the rubble strewn around. Even from her spot, she could see three
floating carpets full of terrified children. Some of them were bleeding, she
realised.
through the rubble strewn around. Even from her spot, she could see three
floating carpets full of terrified children. Some of them were bleeding, she
realised.
She could see the positions of the Death Eaters as well — it looked like they
were behind solid cover too. And smoke from burning houses obscured them — she
couldn’t tell where that smoke ended and the deadly one started, though the
Dark Lord wouldn’t use such a dangerous spell too close to his men, or to the
hostages.
were behind solid cover too. And smoke from burning houses obscured them — she
couldn’t tell where that smoke ended and the deadly one started, though the
Dark Lord wouldn’t use such a dangerous spell too close to his men, or to the
hostages.
Another reason to get closer, she thought. Seamus stood up, firing a short
burst. She leaned around the edge of their cover, trying to summon the closest
flying carpet. It didn’t move towards her, though. Her
Human-presence-revealing Charm showed her where people were hiding — but the
presence of so many children made spotting the Death Eaters harder than usual.
But there was a group of two people moving towards them. Death Eaters! She
tapped her headset. “Two moving through the ruined house on the other side.
Marking them for you.”
burst. She leaned around the edge of their cover, trying to summon the closest
flying carpet. It didn’t move towards her, though. Her
Human-presence-revealing Charm showed her where people were hiding — but the
presence of so many children made spotting the Death Eaters harder than usual.
But there was a group of two people moving towards them. Death Eaters! She
tapped her headset. “Two moving through the ruined house on the other side.
Marking them for you.”
“Alright,” she heard Tania acknowledge while she switched to tracer bullets in
her rifle. The markers were moving faster than she expected — disillusioned
then. She waited until the first broke cover, then fired two bursts at it.
her rifle. The markers were moving faster than she expected — disillusioned
then. She waited until the first broke cover, then fired two bursts at it.
Tania and Justin immediately fired at the same location, a long burst from the
machine gun tearing up the area. The marker dropped, and Hermione shifted her
aim, firing two more bursts. Next to her, Seamus was firing as well, and under
the combined weight of fire, the Death Eater’s Shield Charm shattered. The
Disillusionment Charm followed when more bullets found their mark, revealing a
wizard missing half his head.
machine gun tearing up the area. The marker dropped, and Hermione shifted her
aim, firing two more bursts. Next to her, Seamus was firing as well, and under
the combined weight of fire, the Death Eater’s Shield Charm shattered. The
Disillusionment Charm followed when more bullets found their mark, revealing a
wizard missing half his head.
The other marker was moving back, towards the Death Eaters’ position. He was
running. “Marking the other,” Hermione announced on their channel, “he’s
running!” She started to fire single shots, the tracer bullets following the
running Death Eater.
running. “Marking the other,” Hermione announced on their channel, “he’s
running!” She started to fire single shots, the tracer bullets following the
running Death Eater.
Tania was firing as well, hosing down the area with long bursts, but the
marker kept running — until right in front of him, a wall rose, courtesy of
Louise. It didn’t last long, but long enough for Seamus and Tania to drop that
Death Eater as well.
marker kept running — until right in front of him, a wall rose, courtesy of
Louise. It didn’t last long, but long enough for Seamus and Tania to drop that
Death Eater as well.
That meant the flank of the enemy was open now. With the Delacours keeping
them busy, the Resistance could hit them hard. There was just one problem. She
keyed her radio again.
them busy, the Resistance could hit them hard. There was just one problem. She
keyed her radio again.
“Louise, Jeremy — once you can see the hostages, start conjuring walls around
them!”
them!”
Next to her, Seamus chuckled. “Then we can blow them up!”
She didn’t answer him. Instead she stood up and laid down some covering fire.
Or tried to — a Cutting Curse almost took her head off before she could duck
down again. “Too close,” she muttered.
Or tried to — a Cutting Curse almost took her head off before she could duck
down again. “Too close,” she muttered.
But Louise and Jeremy were in a flanking position now. And Seamus was getting
his bombs out.
his bombs out.
“No bombs! Use grenades!” she told him.
Seamus shook his head. “We have to take that risk.”
“Risking children?”
She stared at him. Was he really willing to go that far? A second passed.
Another. Then he cursed, and started to collect the bombs.
Another. Then he cursed, and started to collect the bombs.
Hermione let out the breath she had been holding and stood up again to cast
once more at the enemy.
once more at the enemy.
“I barely see them long enough to shoot!” Justin’s voice sounded through the
radio.
radio.
Hermione had expected that. She tried to clear the smoke with a gust of wind,
but it barely moved the thick clouds. At least Louise and Jeremy were making
headway with the walls around the children. Just a few more, and…
but it barely moved the thick clouds. At least Louise and Jeremy were making
headway with the walls around the children. Just a few more, and…
The rubble the two former Hit-wizards were moving through suddenly exploded,
and both disappeared in a cloud of dust. Seamus cursed.
and both disappeared in a cloud of dust. Seamus cursed.
Hermione pointed her wand at the cloud. “Accio Louise’s uniform!”
“Accio Jeremy’s uniform!” Seamus was slower to react.
Two bodies flew towards them. “Catch them!” Hermione yelled, already casting
to raise another wall, so they wouldn’t share the fate of their friends.
to raise another wall, so they wouldn’t share the fate of their friends.
Not a second too soon — another explosion made the ground shake, tearing
through her obstacles as if they were made of cardboard. That had never
happened before — it had to be the Dark Lord. “Voldemort’s engaging us!” she
shouted, hoping Sirius or Harry were paying attention to the mirror.
through her obstacles as if they were made of cardboard. That had never
happened before — it had to be the Dark Lord. “Voldemort’s engaging us!” she
shouted, hoping Sirius or Harry were paying attention to the mirror.
“Jeremy’s dead!” Seamus yelled. “Louise’s badly wounded!”
“Sally-Anne, Louise needs help!” Hermione said, tapping her radio again. For a
moment, she debated staying. If they managed to keep the Dark Lord busy, it
would allow Harry and the others to get close. But the smoke was covering the
entire area now, obscuring the street — not even tracer bullets would allow
her to direct the fire from Tania and Justin — and more obstacles were growing
from the ground. And she had to keep casting to prevent the smoke from
reaching her — it was probably harmless, but they couldn’t risk being wrong.
If Voldemort reached their position in the middle of this…
moment, she debated staying. If they managed to keep the Dark Lord busy, it
would allow Harry and the others to get close. But the smoke was covering the
entire area now, obscuring the street — not even tracer bullets would allow
her to direct the fire from Tania and Justin — and more obstacles were growing
from the ground. And she had to keep casting to prevent the smoke from
reaching her — it was probably harmless, but they couldn’t risk being wrong.
If Voldemort reached their position in the middle of this…
No, she thought — they’d die too quickly. It was better to make him chase
them. “Fall back!” she shouted, levitating Louise and starting to run.
them. “Fall back!” she shouted, levitating Louise and starting to run.
Seamus dropped a smoke grenade behind them, then sprinted after her. Behind
them, their old position vanished in a green cloud — acid, she thought. Or
poison. Or both. They were almost out of the ruins when she saw the body of
the Auror she had noticed before standing up — despite his chest sporting a
hole she could see through.
them, their old position vanished in a green cloud — acid, she thought. Or
poison. Or both. They were almost out of the ruins when she saw the body of
the Auror she had noticed before standing up — despite his chest sporting a
hole she could see through.
And it was charging her! She couldn’t use her wand without dropping Louise,
not could she use her rifle. She fumbled for her pistol, but Seamus was
quicker, firing several bursts from his rifle at the walking corpse.
not could she use her rifle. She fumbled for her pistol, but Seamus was
quicker, firing several bursts from his rifle at the walking corpse.
The body shook under the impact of the bullets, but didn’t stop advancing.
“Use your wand!” Hermione yelled, backpedaling.
A Reductor Curse blew the thing’s head off, but it took two more to make it
stop moving.
stop moving.
And Hermione had seen more corpses around.
“Zombies!” she heard Tania yell through the radio.
---
The Dark Lord Voldemort snarled, lowering his wand. The cowardly mudbloods had
killed Rabastan and Yaxley, then ran from him! But he had paid them back. They
had lost more people, and dealing with a few dozen animated corpses would
shatter his enemies’ cohesion as they defended themselves against the walking
dead. It wasn’t actually necromancy, but a mere charm, the results far from a
true undead like an Inferius, but the mudbloods and fools opposing him
wouldn’t know that.
killed Rabastan and Yaxley, then ran from him! But he had paid them back. They
had lost more people, and dealing with a few dozen animated corpses would
shatter his enemies’ cohesion as they defended themselves against the walking
dead. It wasn’t actually necromancy, but a mere charm, the results far from a
true undead like an Inferius, but the mudbloods and fools opposing him
wouldn’t know that.
Not until it was too late. He raised his wand, blowing up a roof nearby and
sending another fool to their death. The mudbloods were running, their nerve
lost when their muggle weapons had been rendered ineffective and their plan to
save the hostages had been foiled. All they had managed to achieve was drawing
him away from finishing the blood traitors. A meaningless delay, since they
were trapped inside their shop. And the majority of the Ministry forces had
been driven off or killed already. That left Dumbledore’s Order, and what was
left of their brave but foolish French friends. His Death Eaters had taken
losses too, and three were still tied up taking down the blood traitors’
wards, but that didn’t matter now — the remaining enemies wouldn’t be able to
withstand a charge led by himself. He could feel Potter out there as well —
close, even. Killing the Boy-Who-Lived at the same time as he shattered his
enemies would make the day perfect.
sending another fool to their death. The mudbloods were running, their nerve
lost when their muggle weapons had been rendered ineffective and their plan to
save the hostages had been foiled. All they had managed to achieve was drawing
him away from finishing the blood traitors. A meaningless delay, since they
were trapped inside their shop. And the majority of the Ministry forces had
been driven off or killed already. That left Dumbledore’s Order, and what was
left of their brave but foolish French friends. His Death Eaters had taken
losses too, and three were still tied up taking down the blood traitors’
wards, but that didn’t matter now — the remaining enemies wouldn’t be able to
withstand a charge led by himself. He could feel Potter out there as well —
close, even. Killing the Boy-Who-Lived at the same time as he shattered his
enemies would make the day perfect.
“Ackerly! Rodolphus! Follow me!” he commanded, striding out from their
position. It was time to end this battle — and this war.
position. It was time to end this battle — and this war.
Nott rushed after him, almost stumbling over some rubble left in the street,
while Rodolphus showed the awareness of a true fighter, moving over the uneven
ground as if it was a smooth street. He vanished the pitiful walls the fools
had tried to raise around his hostages, and summoned one of the carpets.
while Rodolphus showed the awareness of a true fighter, moving over the uneven
ground as if it was a smooth street. He vanished the pitiful walls the fools
had tried to raise around his hostages, and summoned one of the carpets.
Something moved in the ruins ahead, and he sent a Blasting Curse their way,
then turned the dust thrown up by it into acid. A grey-robed Hit-Wizard
stumbled out of it, screaming as the acid ate away at his skin. Rodolphus
added to the man’s agony by hitting him with an Entrail-expelling Curse.
then turned the dust thrown up by it into acid. A grey-robed Hit-Wizard
stumbled out of it, screaming as the acid ate away at his skin. Rodolphus
added to the man’s agony by hitting him with an Entrail-expelling Curse.
Voldemort frowned — without any enemy to frighten with it, such a display
served no purpose. A Killing Curse would have been better. But he had to
indulge his most loyal followers.
served no purpose. A Killing Curse would have been better. But he had to
indulge his most loyal followers.
He spotted movement ahead, and his Human-presence-revealing Spell marked them.
Were the fools actually attacking still? With just two of them? He smirked,
covering the street ahead of the two enemies in a cloud of acidic poison that
looked just like the smoke from the burning house next to it.
Were the fools actually attacking still? With just two of them? He smirked,
covering the street ahead of the two enemies in a cloud of acidic poison that
looked just like the smoke from the burning house next to it.
To his surprise, the cloud was blown away — towards him, even! — by a single
spell. His eyes widened slightly. There were not many wizards skilled enough
to do such a thing. Then he grinned. It looked like he’d be able to avenge
another slight today!
spell. His eyes widened slightly. There were not many wizards skilled enough
to do such a thing. Then he grinned. It looked like he’d be able to avenge
another slight today!
As expected, it was Mad-Eye Moody who jumped out from the corner, sending a
Killing Curse at Voldemort. No, at Nott. The fool had moved away, too far for
the floating metal shields protecting Voldemort to intercept the curse. He
fell, dead, with a surprised expression on his face.
Killing Curse at Voldemort. No, at Nott. The fool had moved away, too far for
the floating metal shields protecting Voldemort to intercept the curse. He
fell, dead, with a surprised expression on his face.
Good riddance to the coward, Voldemort thought, returning fire with a few
Killing Curses of his own. His enemy showed surprising agility for a cripple,
moving far quicker than expected. Had he enhanced himself with spells or
potions?
Killing Curses of his own. His enemy showed surprising agility for a cripple,
moving far quicker than expected. Had he enhanced himself with spells or
potions?
Rodolphus was moving to the side now, to catch the enemy in a crossfire, but a
volley of curses from the corner drove him back — Aberforth Dumbledore had
entered the fray.
volley of curses from the corner drove him back — Aberforth Dumbledore had
entered the fray.
Voldemort smiled. A flick of his wand started to draw the Cursed Cloud above
them down towards the street. When Dumbledore’s brother began to counter that,
Rodolphus started to press him hard. Which left Voldemort free to deal with
Moody.
them down towards the street. When Dumbledore’s brother began to counter that,
Rodolphus started to press him hard. Which left Voldemort free to deal with
Moody.
The old Auror was casting rapidly, Killing Curses mixed with Cutting and
Piercing Curses. Efficient, but hardly surprising — but then, few could
surprise a man who had delved further into the Dark Arts than anyone else, so
it stood to reason that Moody wouldn’t try.
Piercing Curses. Efficient, but hardly surprising — but then, few could
surprise a man who had delved further into the Dark Arts than anyone else, so
it stood to reason that Moody wouldn’t try.
Voldemort’s defences and protections weathered the assault, if not without
some effort, a number of his shields exploding as they intercepted the Killing
Curses, his Shield Charm straining to handle the rest. But he was sending
Killing Curses of his own at the Auror. They too were met with conjured
obstacles. Voldemort frowned — it was rare to find an opponent able to match
his speed at casting the Killing Curse. He raised his estimate of Moody
accordingly. It wouldn’t save the Auror, of course — Voldemort had far more
spells at his disposal than the Killing Curse, even though he liked its power
and simplicity. And thanks to Barty Jr., he knew a lot about the Auror’s
enchanted eye — and its weaknesses.
some effort, a number of his shields exploding as they intercepted the Killing
Curses, his Shield Charm straining to handle the rest. But he was sending
Killing Curses of his own at the Auror. They too were met with conjured
obstacles. Voldemort frowned — it was rare to find an opponent able to match
his speed at casting the Killing Curse. He raised his estimate of Moody
accordingly. It wouldn’t save the Auror, of course — Voldemort had far more
spells at his disposal than the Killing Curse, even though he liked its power
and simplicity. And thanks to Barty Jr., he knew a lot about the Auror’s
enchanted eye — and its weaknesses.
He ducked beneath a decidedly illegal curse — Moody was using more exotic
spells now, too, he noticed — and swished his wand, then stabbed it at the
Auror’s position. Mixed with three Fire-Dart Spells, a few charms greased the
ground beneath his enemy, but without any effect — Moody showed no trouble in
avoiding the darts, having enchanted his peg leg to avoid slipping — another
piece of information Voldemort’s late follower had acquired a few years ago.
spells now, too, he noticed — and swished his wand, then stabbed it at the
Auror’s position. Mixed with three Fire-Dart Spells, a few charms greased the
ground beneath his enemy, but without any effect — Moody showed no trouble in
avoiding the darts, having enchanted his peg leg to avoid slipping — another
piece of information Voldemort’s late follower had acquired a few years ago.
Having known all this, Voldemort had cast those spells to distract his enemy,
and keep the man’s enchanted eye from noticing the other spell he had cast at
the street. He smiled when the ground suddenly opened beneath the Auror, the
stone and earth forming a sphere around his enemy. Too quickly to let the man
react and escape, but not quick enough for Voldemort to miss with the
Fiendfyre he sent into it right before it closed.
and keep the man’s enchanted eye from noticing the other spell he had cast at
the street. He smiled when the ground suddenly opened beneath the Auror, the
stone and earth forming a sphere around his enemy. Too quickly to let the man
react and escape, but not quick enough for Voldemort to miss with the
Fiendfyre he sent into it right before it closed.
That left Dumbledore’s brother. Voldemort turned just in time to save
Rodolphus from being overwhelmed.
Rodolphus from being overwhelmed.
---
Ron Weasley was staring at the smoke above Diagon Alley. He had heard
Hermione’s warning — it was a trap. And he had seen an Auror fall from the sky
after flying through it. They had to get rid of it, but he had seen how
quickly the Marid he had released had been dealt with by the Dark Lord. A
Djinn would come in very handy now. But he didn’t have another genie bottle.
Hermione’s warning — it was a trap. And he had seen an Auror fall from the sky
after flying through it. They had to get rid of it, but he had seen how
quickly the Marid he had released had been dealt with by the Dark Lord. A
Djinn would come in very handy now. But he didn’t have another genie bottle.
“What are you doing, Ron? We need to kill those Death Eaters before they break
down our wards!” Fred yelled at him.
down our wards!” Fred yelled at him.
“We need to deal with this smoke!” Ron yelled back. “Before it settles in the
Alley and kills everyone.”
Alley and kills everyone.”
“The others are keeping it at bay with spells.”
They were — but every spell cast at the smoke was one spell less cast at the
enemy. You couldn’t fight under such conditions. Ron ground his teeth. The
trinkets he had received from Dumbledore were of no use here. And the pranking
items wouldn’t help either. Unless… His eyes widened. He dug out the
‘Everlasting Evaporator’ from his enchanted pocket, then grabbed a bezoar from
another pocket. “George! I need a mortar!”
enemy. You couldn’t fight under such conditions. Ron ground his teeth. The
trinkets he had received from Dumbledore were of no use here. And the pranking
items wouldn’t help either. Unless… His eyes widened. He dug out the
‘Everlasting Evaporator’ from his enchanted pocket, then grabbed a bezoar from
another pocket. “George! I need a mortar!”
“What?”
“A mortar! Now!”
“The wards are about to fall, and you want a mortar?”
“Yes! Hurry up!”
His brother arrived, with a mortar in hand.
Ron grabbed it and put the bezoar inside, then started the mortar. “Come on,
grind grind grind!” he mumbled.
grind grind grind!” he mumbled.
“What are you planning?” Fred asked.
“Dealing with the smoke,” Ron said, stopping the mortar and pouring the dust
into the Evaporator.
into the Evaporator.
“The wards will fall any minute now! We have to get out!” George said.
“Not yet!” Ron started the Evaporator. Thick, brown smoke poured out of it. He
cast a Doubling Charm on the smoke, and the shop rapidly started to fill with
it.
cast a Doubling Charm on the smoke, and the shop rapidly started to fill with
it.
“Ron! What did you do?” George yelled.
“Neutralising the smoke!” Ron yelled, before coughing. He picked the
Evaporator up and pushed it outside.
Evaporator up and pushed it outside.
“At least it’ll hide us from them once the wards fall,” Fred muttered,
coughing. “Unless we suffocate in here.”
coughing. “Unless we suffocate in here.”
Ron was ignoring him, staring at the sky. The magically multiplying smoke was
rising, and mixing with the other smoke. If he had guessed correctly… he
conjured a small bird and sent it up. Right into the thickest smoke. It didn’t
die.
rising, and mixing with the other smoke. If he had guessed correctly… he
conjured a small bird and sent it up. Right into the thickest smoke. It didn’t
die.
He pulled out his mirror. “The smoke’s neutralised where it’s brown!” he
yelled into it.
yelled into it.
He was repeating himself when the shop suddenly shook violently. He knew what
that meant — the wards had fallen. He turned around, and saw a wall of flames
rush towards him.
that meant — the wards had fallen. He turned around, and saw a wall of flames
rush towards him.
---
Harry Potter saw Sirius suddenly stop, ducking into a broken door instead of
continuing through the side alley.
continuing through the side alley.
“Ron said the smoke has been neutralised ‘where it’s brown’,” Sirius said.
Harry gasped. That meant… He stuck his hand into his pocket, feeling around
for his shrunken Firebolt.
for his shrunken Firebolt.
“Harry!”
He met his godfather’s eyes. “It’s the best way. I can reach him in a few
seconds.”
seconds.”
Sirius muttered a curse under his breath, but he was pulling his own broom
out.
out.
Harry opened his mouth to tell him not to follow him, but a glare from Sirius
shut him up.
shut him up.
A few seconds later, they were in the air. The faint pain Harry had felt ever
since arriving in the Alley grew stronger — Voldemort was close. He pushed his
broom down, skimming the edge of the next roof, then shot across the Alley.
Where was the Dark Lord?
since arriving in the Alley grew stronger — Voldemort was close. He pushed his
broom down, skimming the edge of the next roof, then shot across the Alley.
Where was the Dark Lord?
A slew of curses missed him, and he banked, then corkscrewed. There were the
Death Eaters, and there was… He gasped — the twins’ shop was on fire. Flames
shot out of the windows. As he stared, the roof was blown off — from the
inside — and three brooms shot out of the burning building, chased by a giant
snake made of flames. Fiendfyre!
Death Eaters, and there was… He gasped — the twins’ shop was on fire. Flames
shot out of the windows. As he stared, the roof was blown off — from the
inside — and three brooms shot out of the burning building, chased by a giant
snake made of flames. Fiendfyre!
The three broom riders disappeared in the brown smoke while the snake broke
apart into tendrils of fire.
apart into tendrils of fire.
“There’s the Dark Lord!” Sirius shouted, before Harry could change course.
He glanced down. There was Voldemort — looking at him. Harry snarled, and
dived down.
dived down.
The Dark Lord was casting rapidly, and Harry had to corkscrew and break off
his dive to avoid the slew of curses flying at him. Even so, the curses came
very close. He couldn’t reach him by flying straight at him, Harry knew — he
would be too easy to hit that way. He had to approach from the side, while
circling. Just like in the tournament with the dragon.
his dive to avoid the slew of curses flying at him. Even so, the curses came
very close. He couldn’t reach him by flying straight at him, Harry knew — he
would be too easy to hit that way. He had to approach from the side, while
circling. Just like in the tournament with the dragon.
Only Voldemort could cast faster than the dragon had been able to breathe
fire. And the Dark Lord had better aim as well. Harry had to use all his skill
at flying to avoid getting killed — and was still driven away, rather than
closing in.
fire. And the Dark Lord had better aim as well. Harry had to use all his skill
at flying to avoid getting killed — and was still driven away, rather than
closing in.
Then Sirius dived at the Dark Lord, his wand spitting curses. That gave Harry
an opening. He pulled his broom around and closed in again on the distracted
enemy. Before he could finish his manoeuvre, though, a curse hit Sirius’s
broom, sending him spinning away. Harry had to pull up again to avoid the next
barrage of curses. He glanced around — he couldn’t spot Sirius. He hesitated.
Should he press on, or go help his godfather?
an opening. He pulled his broom around and closed in again on the distracted
enemy. Before he could finish his manoeuvre, though, a curse hit Sirius’s
broom, sending him spinning away. Harry had to pull up again to avoid the next
barrage of curses. He glanced around — he couldn’t spot Sirius. He hesitated.
Should he press on, or go help his godfather?
He clenched his jaw and bent low over his broom. He had to get the Dark Lord.
“Harry!”
That was Ron! Harry glanced over his shoulder and saw his friend approach, on
his broom, wand out. Another Death Eater stepped up next to the Dark Lord,
wand raised, but before he could cast, a spell hit him in the back and he
crumpled. Was that Aberforth? Before Harry could take another look, the man
vanished in a cloud of smoke when Voldemort unleashed more curses.
his broom, wand out. Another Death Eater stepped up next to the Dark Lord,
wand raised, but before he could cast, a spell hit him in the back and he
crumpled. Was that Aberforth? Before Harry could take another look, the man
vanished in a cloud of smoke when Voldemort unleashed more curses.
That was an opening! Harry banked left, approaching the Dark Lord at an angle,
in a shrinking circle. Ron, however, flew straight, raining spells down on
Voldemort. Distracting him further, Harry knew.
in a shrinking circle. Ron, however, flew straight, raining spells down on
Voldemort. Distracting him further, Harry knew.
Harry rolled, narrowly avoiding a Killing Curse. He was almost close enough.
He drew the Elder Wand as the ground suddenly rose, and rose, forming a wall.
Harry pulled on his broom with all his strength, hampered by his grip on the
wand, but he managed to swing around, enough to scrape along the wall, rather
than crash into it.
He drew the Elder Wand as the ground suddenly rose, and rose, forming a wall.
Harry pulled on his broom with all his strength, hampered by his grip on the
wand, but he managed to swing around, enough to scrape along the wall, rather
than crash into it.
Ron flew over it — but the Dark Lord must have been waiting for that — Harry’s
friend flew straight into a curse. He screamed as he crashed.
friend flew straight into a curse. He screamed as he crashed.
But that curse had cost Voldemort. Harry was close enough now, and the Dark
Lord was facing away from him. Voldemort was still turning towards him, his
wand rising, when Harry pointed the Elder Wand at him, just a few yards away
from crashing into him.
Lord was facing away from him. Voldemort was still turning towards him, his
wand rising, when Harry pointed the Elder Wand at him, just a few yards away
from crashing into him.
“Legilimens!”
His scar flared up in sudden, excruciating pain, and time seemed to stop.
---
Harry found himself floating in empty space, the pain gone. There were spheres
containing memories, but they were distant, their sounds barely audible.
containing memories, but they were distant, their sounds barely audible.
“Potter!”
He whirled around.
Voldemort was floating there, his inhuman face sneering at him. “What did you
do? Did you try to read my mind?” The Dark Lord blinked. “No, that’s not it.
You used the link between us. I see. Clever, boy. But not clever enough.”
do? Did you try to read my mind?” The Dark Lord blinked. “No, that’s not it.
You used the link between us. I see. Clever, boy. But not clever enough.”
Harry clenched his jaw, rage filling him. That monster had murdered his
parents. Had hurt, possibly killed his godfather and his best friend, and so
many others. He aimed his wand at the Dark Lord. He couldn’t cast spells here,
but it would serve as a focus for his will. His rage.
parents. Had hurt, possibly killed his godfather and his best friend, and so
many others. He aimed his wand at the Dark Lord. He couldn’t cast spells here,
but it would serve as a focus for his will. His rage.
Voldemort hissed, twitching, and floated back a foot, before steadying
himself. “You think you can defeat me, in my own mind? You, a mere boy, not
even out of school?” Voldemort laughed, raising his own wand. And Harry felt
the pressure against his own mind. Like in the graveyard.
himself. “You think you can defeat me, in my own mind? You, a mere boy, not
even out of school?” Voldemort laughed, raising his own wand. And Harry felt
the pressure against his own mind. Like in the graveyard.
“I’ve beaten you before,” Harry spat back. “As a toddler. As a first year. As
a second year. I almost beat you in my fourth year, too.” He had forced the
Dark Lord’s spell back when they had been caught in that golden cage. He could
do it again.
a second year. I almost beat you in my fourth year, too.” He had forced the
Dark Lord’s spell back when they had been caught in that golden cage. He could
do it again.
“You never beat me. Dumbledore and your parents protected you. But they are
dead. As are your friends. They sacrificed themselves, so you could fail. All
those deaths, all that suffering, for naught! Because of you!” He laughed
again, then smiled. “You will die here, and then Britain will be mine.”
dead. As are your friends. They sacrificed themselves, so you could fail. All
those deaths, all that suffering, for naught! Because of you!” He laughed
again, then smiled. “You will die here, and then Britain will be mine.”
The pain grew stronger. Harry let out an involuntary hiss before rallying. He
wouldn’t let this monster defeat him! He’d crush him, and avenge everyone!
Save everyone! And yet, little by little, he felt himself being pushed back.
Felt the pain grow inside his head. Harry tried to focus his rage, but to no
avail. He was driven back, beaten. He was about to die, he realised. Killed by
Voldemort.
wouldn’t let this monster defeat him! He’d crush him, and avenge everyone!
Save everyone! And yet, little by little, he felt himself being pushed back.
Felt the pain grow inside his head. Harry tried to focus his rage, but to no
avail. He was driven back, beaten. He was about to die, he realised. Killed by
Voldemort.
Voldemort was smiling now. “Who had this foolish idea? Did Dumbledore truly
believe that a mere boy, without any experience in the Dark Arts, could be a
match for me? Die!”
believe that a mere boy, without any experience in the Dark Arts, could be a
match for me? Die!”
Harry heard someone groan, and realised it was himself. The pressure was
growing even worse. His head felt as if a red-hot poker was being driven
through it — through his scar. He thought of his friends, his family, and
closed his eyes. He couldn’t beat the Dark Lord with rage. He should have
known that. Had known it. But to see Sirius, and Ron, fall…
growing even worse. His head felt as if a red-hot poker was being driven
through it — through his scar. He thought of his friends, his family, and
closed his eyes. He couldn’t beat the Dark Lord with rage. He should have
known that. Had known it. But to see Sirius, and Ron, fall…
“Think of your loved ones, and their deaths! You’ll be joining them now!”
His head felt as if it was bursting. His heart was racing. His body was
shaking. He remembered his parents dying, Sirius crashing, Ron screaming,
Hermione… he blinked. He had felt like this before. At the Black Lake. In
third year. He focused on that memory. On the memory inside the memory. The
happiness he had felt then, and remembered. Love.
shaking. He remembered his parents dying, Sirius crashing, Ron screaming,
Hermione… he blinked. He had felt like this before. At the Black Lake. In
third year. He focused on that memory. On the memory inside the memory. The
happiness he had felt then, and remembered. Love.
He opened his eyes, facing Voldemort. The pain was fading, his rage and
frustration and fear receding. He saw a glimpse of surprise, of fear, in his
enemy’s eyes, and smiled.
frustration and fear receding. He saw a glimpse of surprise, of fear, in his
enemy’s eyes, and smiled.
“Expecto Patronum!”
No stag appeared, not here. But Harry started to glow, glow so brightly that
Voldemort had to shield his eyes with his free hand. The Dark Lord looked
afraid, Harry realised. And he smiled again.
Voldemort had to shield his eyes with his free hand. The Dark Lord looked
afraid, Harry realised. And he smiled again.
This time Voldemort was shaking, hissing, his smile gone, replaced by fear and
hatred.
hatred.
Harry’s pain was gone now. He focused on his enemy, and pushed. And Voldemort
faltered.
faltered.
“No! No!” The Dark Lord was stammering now, panting. Sweating.
Harry was still glowing, the light seemingly reaching out, travelling from his
wand to Voldemort’s. Like in the graveyard, almost two years ago.
wand to Voldemort’s. Like in the graveyard, almost two years ago.
But unlike back then, Voldemort couldn’t flee. Couldn’t break the
confrontation off. He would die here.
confrontation off. He would die here.
And that realisation was, Harry suddenly knew, too much for a man who had
sacrificed everything to avoid death.
sacrificed everything to avoid death.
“No! No! NOOOOO!”
When the light reached Voldemort’s wand, it started to crumble, turning to
ashes that faded as they fell. His hand followed, then his arm. Behind him,
the memory spheres started to fade as well.
ashes that faded as they fell. His hand followed, then his arm. Behind him,
the memory spheres started to fade as well.
The Dark Lord kept screaming until his head disintegrated and Harry found
himself alone.
himself alone.
Voldemort was gone.
Chapter 41: Hanging in the Balance
==================================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox, fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved
the story a lot.
the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 41: Hanging in the Balance**
*’In many ways, the Battle of Diagon Alley was a repeat of the Battle of the
Ministry. Ministry forces, members of the Order of the Phoenix, French
volunteers and the Muggleborn Resistance fought the followers of the Dark Lord
in the middle of a location full of civilians, ultimately defeating them at
great cost.*
Ministry. Ministry forces, members of the Order of the Phoenix, French
volunteers and the Muggleborn Resistance fought the followers of the Dark Lord
in the middle of a location full of civilians, ultimately defeating them at
great cost.*
*And yet there were crucial differences. Unlike the Battle of the Ministry,
where Bellatrix Lestrange was overcome by sheer force of numbers, this battle
— and with it, the Second Blood War — was decided by a duel between two
wizards. The Dark Lord and the Boy-Who-Lived met on the battlefield in single
combat, just as Grindelwald and Dumbledore had, fifty years before them. Many
consider it ironic that a war fought over muggleborns was decided in such a
traditional manner. It is not a surprise, however, once one considers that
Dumbledore must have planned this. While the duel between the Dark Lord and
Harry Potter has been the subject of so many books, each revealing its
author’s bias, that it is hard to find the truth, it goes without saying that
the only way Harry Potter could have managed to defeat the Dark Lord was if he
had been personally trained by Dumbledore for such a confrontation. In fact,
some even go as far as to credit Dumbledore with the victory over the Dark
Lord, claiming that the Boy-Who-Lived was nothing more than his tool and
citing as proof the Dark Lord’s defeat in Godric’s Hollow in 1981 at the hands
of a toddler.*
where Bellatrix Lestrange was overcome by sheer force of numbers, this battle
— and with it, the Second Blood War — was decided by a duel between two
wizards. The Dark Lord and the Boy-Who-Lived met on the battlefield in single
combat, just as Grindelwald and Dumbledore had, fifty years before them. Many
consider it ironic that a war fought over muggleborns was decided in such a
traditional manner. It is not a surprise, however, once one considers that
Dumbledore must have planned this. While the duel between the Dark Lord and
Harry Potter has been the subject of so many books, each revealing its
author’s bias, that it is hard to find the truth, it goes without saying that
the only way Harry Potter could have managed to defeat the Dark Lord was if he
had been personally trained by Dumbledore for such a confrontation. In fact,
some even go as far as to credit Dumbledore with the victory over the Dark
Lord, claiming that the Boy-Who-Lived was nothing more than his tool and
citing as proof the Dark Lord’s defeat in Godric’s Hollow in 1981 at the hands
of a toddler.*
*While I share the view that it wasn’t a toddler’s accidental magic, but a
well-prepared trap that decided the First Blood War — as I have already
discussed earlier — I do think that Harry Potter’s subsequent actions show
that he was far from a mere tool of Dumbledore.’*
well-prepared trap that decided the First Blood War — as I have already
discussed earlier — I do think that Harry Potter’s subsequent actions show
that he was far from a mere tool of Dumbledore.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 1st, 1997**
His distraction had worked well — too well, Ron Weasley thought when he
realised that he couldn’t avoid all the curses sent his way by Voldemort. He
still tried his best, of course. He rolled and banked to the left, sliding
between a green and a brown curse, then pulled up, as sharply as he could. The
third curse hit his broom, shattering it between his hands and knees. The
broom didn’t block the curse completely, though — it hit Ron anyway, and his
right side erupted in pain.
realised that he couldn’t avoid all the curses sent his way by Voldemort. He
still tried his best, of course. He rolled and banked to the left, sliding
between a green and a brown curse, then pulled up, as sharply as he could. The
third curse hit his broom, shattering it between his hands and knees. The
broom didn’t block the curse completely, though — it hit Ron anyway, and his
right side erupted in pain.
With his broom destroyed, he instantly started to fall. Desperate, he waved
his wand, casting a Cushioning Charm straight down. Hindered by his injuries,
he barely managed to finish the spell before he hit the roof. Even so, the
charm worked enough to keep him both alive and conscious, though his battered,
bleeding body erupted in even more pain as he slid down the sloped roof. Ron
grabbed for the edge of the roof, but didn’t find any purchase, and fell
another storey. He did manage to land feet first, but his left ankle snapped,
and he collapsed.
his wand, casting a Cushioning Charm straight down. Hindered by his injuries,
he barely managed to finish the spell before he hit the roof. Even so, the
charm worked enough to keep him both alive and conscious, though his battered,
bleeding body erupted in even more pain as he slid down the sloped roof. Ron
grabbed for the edge of the roof, but didn’t find any purchase, and fell
another storey. He did manage to land feet first, but his left ankle snapped,
and he collapsed.
He had broken his leg before though, in training with Moody, so he rolled on
to his side and numbed his ankle. But his side still hurt — and bled — and
with the shock receding, he noticed that dozens of splinters had peppered his
limbs and body as well. And they hurt. At least he was in a side alley, a bit
away from his brothers’ shop, so he should be safe for a few more moments.
to his side and numbed his ankle. But his side still hurt — and bled — and
with the shock receding, he noticed that dozens of splinters had peppered his
limbs and body as well. And they hurt. At least he was in a side alley, a bit
away from his brothers’ shop, so he should be safe for a few more moments.
Clenching his teeth together, Ron tried to stop the bleeding of the curse
wound in his side, but his spell had no effect, other than closing a few cuts
over some of the splinters. Muttering a few more curses, he pulled out a
bandage from his pocket, pressed it to his side and cast a Sticking Charm to
hold it in place. It wouldn’t help in the long run, but he wouldn’t bleed out
that quickly. He’d last long enough to help Harry.
wound in his side, but his spell had no effect, other than closing a few cuts
over some of the splinters. Muttering a few more curses, he pulled out a
bandage from his pocket, pressed it to his side and cast a Sticking Charm to
hold it in place. It wouldn’t help in the long run, but he wouldn’t bleed out
that quickly. He’d last long enough to help Harry.
Groaning, he stood up, falling into a limping gait — his ankle didn’t hurt any
more, but he couldn’t move it well either. He had barely taken a few steps
when a figure appeared at the end of the alley. A figure missing half its head
and most of one arm, wearing the shredded remains of red robes.
more, but he couldn’t move it well either. He had barely taken a few steps
when a figure appeared at the end of the alley. A figure missing half its head
and most of one arm, wearing the shredded remains of red robes.
Ron gasped — it was an Inferius! Like in Paris! And he was hobbled by his
ankle! He snarled and flicked his wand. “Incendio!”
ankle! He snarled and flicked his wand. “Incendio!”
The walking corpse was set alight. It still kept coming at him, as expected —
Inferi weren’t easy to destroy. Ron started to fall back, but his leg wasn’t
cooperating. He stumbled, and jarred his shoulder against the wall next to
him. And the burning undead creature was advancing!
Inferi weren’t easy to destroy. Ron started to fall back, but his leg wasn’t
cooperating. He stumbled, and jarred his shoulder against the wall next to
him. And the burning undead creature was advancing!
He moved his wand without caring about his hurt side. “Depulso! Confringo!
Reducto!”
Reducto!”
To his surprise, the first spell pushed the undead back, and the next two blew
its torso into chunks, causing it to collapse on the street. He blinked. An
Inferius shouldn’t be that easy to destroy. It must be a zombie! Either the
Dark Lord’s work, or a houngan he had recruited.
its torso into chunks, causing it to collapse on the street. He blinked. An
Inferius shouldn’t be that easy to destroy. It must be a zombie! Either the
Dark Lord’s work, or a houngan he had recruited.
Ron shivered, and pushed himself off the wall, limping forward. He hoped that
it was Voldemort. The thought of facing a houngan Death Eater… He patted his
side, and winced when his hand came away covered with blood.
it was Voldemort. The thought of facing a houngan Death Eater… He patted his
side, and winced when his hand came away covered with blood.
And yet he pushed on. His friends, his family needed him. He drank a
Blood-Replenishing Potion, which would keep him going.
Blood-Replenishing Potion, which would keep him going.
Another zombie appeared, a small one. In shredded muggle clothes — one of the
hostages, he realised. He pressed his lips together with revulsion and
frustration, then blew that one up as well.
hostages, he realised. He pressed his lips together with revulsion and
frustration, then blew that one up as well.
The Dark Lord and his followers would pay for this, he vowed, as he made his
way to the mouth of the alley. Voldemort had been in that area when he had hit
Ron with the curse. Harry would be there as well. He had to get there!
way to the mouth of the alley. Voldemort had been in that area when he had hit
Ron with the curse. Harry would be there as well. He had to get there!
---
Amelia Bones frowned while she watched the throngs of wizards and witches
rushing into the Leaky Cauldron. Some headed to the pub’s fireplace, but most
fled straight through the door to muggle London. Hopefully, the Obliviators
were on the job — not even the muggles could miss dozens of panicking people
wearing robes streaming out of a pub that they couldn’t see.
rushing into the Leaky Cauldron. Some headed to the pub’s fireplace, but most
fled straight through the door to muggle London. Hopefully, the Obliviators
were on the job — not even the muggles could miss dozens of panicking people
wearing robes streaming out of a pub that they couldn’t see.
“Dawlish! Focus on evacuating these people!” she snapped.
“Yes, ma’am.”
“You shouldn’t be here, Madam Minister,” Pius said in a low voice next to her.
He’d know what she was thinking, of course.
He’d know what she was thinking, of course.
Amelia frowned at him. He should have known better than to propose, even
indirectly, that she retreat to the Ministry. “I won’t cower in my office
while my people fight and die.” She had been an Auror, and she was still among
the best in the Corps. Especially considering the horrible losses the Corps
had taken in this damned war.
indirectly, that she retreat to the Ministry. “I won’t cower in my office
while my people fight and die.” She had been an Auror, and she was still among
the best in the Corps. Especially considering the horrible losses the Corps
had taken in this damned war.
She stepped behind the bar, ignoring Tom’s glare, while Dawlish and the half a
dozen Aurors with him started to herd the fleeing people into some semblance
of order and the Hit-Wizards took up positions at the entrance to Diagon
Alley.
dozen Aurors with him started to herd the fleeing people into some semblance
of order and the Hit-Wizards took up positions at the entrance to Diagon
Alley.
They couldn’t really move into Diagon Alley, not when all of its inhabitants
were trying to flee through this pub. Well, she amended in her mind, they
could — but they would be split up, and the reinforcements from Hogsmeade and
Hogwarts, as well as the ones recalled from their homes, wouldn’t be able to
reach them quickly enough.
were trying to flee through this pub. Well, she amended in her mind, they
could — but they would be split up, and the reinforcements from Hogsmeade and
Hogwarts, as well as the ones recalled from their homes, wouldn’t be able to
reach them quickly enough.
And attacking piecemeal was a recipe for disaster, anyone with some experience
knew that. The fate of the Aurors on duty in Diagon Alley had demonstrated
that. No, they’d wait until they had assembled all available wands before
moving to engage the enemy. That the Order and the Resistance would have to
fight the Death Eaters and the Dark Lord alone for a bit longer couldn’t be
helped.
knew that. The fate of the Aurors on duty in Diagon Alley had demonstrated
that. No, they’d wait until they had assembled all available wands before
moving to engage the enemy. That the Order and the Resistance would have to
fight the Death Eaters and the Dark Lord alone for a bit longer couldn’t be
helped.
Amelia smiled grimly while a witch carried a crying girl towards the door and
didn’t even glance at Pius and the two Aurors assigned as her Bodyguards, who
had followed her to the only space in the room which was not threatened with
being overrun by the panicking mob.
didn’t even glance at Pius and the two Aurors assigned as her Bodyguards, who
had followed her to the only space in the room which was not threatened with
being overrun by the panicking mob.
The Order and the muggleborns had forced her to grant them carte blanche by
threatening to withdraw from the war. Turnabout was only fair — she certainly
hadn’t promised to sacrifice her own people for them.
threatening to withdraw from the war. Turnabout was only fair — she certainly
hadn’t promised to sacrifice her own people for them.
---
Hermione Granger was in a bind. They were barely out of the line of fire of
the Dark Lord and Justin and Tania couldn’t support them due to the smoke
covering the Alley — she glanced up to check if it was coming too close again.
It wasn’t, not yet. But Louise was still unconscious, and Apparition wouldn’t
work — the Death Eaters or the Aurors or both would be layering
Anti-Apparition and Anti-Portkey Jinxes all over the Alley. So Seamus and
Hermione would either have to carry their friend, or levitate her. Either way,
one of them wouldn’t be able to effectively deal with those zombies. And
Hermione was better with a wand than Seamus.
the Dark Lord and Justin and Tania couldn’t support them due to the smoke
covering the Alley — she glanced up to check if it was coming too close again.
It wasn’t, not yet. But Louise was still unconscious, and Apparition wouldn’t
work — the Death Eaters or the Aurors or both would be layering
Anti-Apparition and Anti-Portkey Jinxes all over the Alley. So Seamus and
Hermione would either have to carry their friend, or levitate her. Either way,
one of them wouldn’t be able to effectively deal with those zombies. And
Hermione was better with a wand than Seamus.
“Seamus! Levitate her!” she yelled, lowering Louise to the ground. “I’ll cover
you!”
you!”
The wizard looked at her, and for a moment, she was uncertain whether he’d
follow her orders, but then he nodded.
follow her orders, but then he nodded.
Hermione sent another gust of wind up at the smoke above them, just in case,
and then started moving towards the rest of the Resistance. “We’re coming
back!” she said into her radio.
and then started moving towards the rest of the Resistance. “We’re coming
back!” she said into her radio.
“We’ve killed three of those zombies, but there are more lurking around,”
Justin answered on the radio. “But watch out — smoke’s very low between our
position and yours.”
Justin answered on the radio. “But watch out — smoke’s very low between our
position and yours.”
He didn’t report anyone getting hurt, Hermione noted with relief. She checked
their rear — no one seemed to pursuing them. No marker was floating nearby.
The Dark Lord must be fighting someone else, she thought. Ron, or Harry. She
hissed — she wanted to go back and help them, but she couldn’t leave Seamus
alone with Louise. She clenched her teeth and sprinted past Seamus, taking
cover behind the remains of a cart before peering around the corner into the
Alley.
their rear — no one seemed to pursuing them. No marker was floating nearby.
The Dark Lord must be fighting someone else, she thought. Ron, or Harry. She
hissed — she wanted to go back and help them, but she couldn’t leave Seamus
alone with Louise. She clenched her teeth and sprinted past Seamus, taking
cover behind the remains of a cart before peering around the corner into the
Alley.
As Justin had warned her, thick dark smoke was covering the street there. She
pressed her lips together and cast a wind spell. The cloud started to slowly
give away, making her wonder what kind of spells Voldemort had used to make
the cloud that resistant to other spells.
pressed her lips together and cast a wind spell. The cloud started to slowly
give away, making her wonder what kind of spells Voldemort had used to make
the cloud that resistant to other spells.
But even so, her spell was slowly opening a passage to the rest of the
Resistance. She clenched her teeth — the longer she took here, the longer
Harry and Ron spent fighting Voldemort without her help.
Resistance. She clenched her teeth — the longer she took here, the longer
Harry and Ron spent fighting Voldemort without her help.
“Zombies behind us!” Seamus yelled.
Hermione whirled around. Half a dozen small figures were walking — shambling —
towards them. Dead children, the hostages the Death Eaters had taken, she
realised, horrified. Her wand was already aimed at them, though, and she cast
a volley of Reductor Curses a moment later. It didn’t take long to destroy the
zombies.
towards them. Dead children, the hostages the Death Eaters had taken, she
realised, horrified. Her wand was already aimed at them, though, and she cast
a volley of Reductor Curses a moment later. It didn’t take long to destroy the
zombies.
“Shite!” Seamus cursed, staring at the gory remains.
Hermione nodded, pressing her lips together. She knew that she’d remember the
sight of exploding children for a long time. “Let’s go!” she said, starting
again to open a passage through the smoke.
sight of exploding children for a long time. “Let’s go!” she said, starting
again to open a passage through the smoke.
“Voldemort just shot down a broom rider!”
Justin’s report made her feel even worse. She told herself that it could have
been anyone, an Auror or a Hit-Wizard. But she knew that, if they could, both
Harry and Ron would use their brooms to fight Voldemort.
been anyone, an Auror or a Hit-Wizard. But she knew that, if they could, both
Harry and Ron would use their brooms to fight Voldemort.
It took her about a minute to push the cursed or poisonous cloud far enough
away that they could safely move through the street. Far too long for her
friends. At least Sally-Anne and John were waiting for them — behind cover —
when they finally cleared the smoke.
away that they could safely move through the street. Far too long for her
friends. At least Sally-Anne and John were waiting for them — behind cover —
when they finally cleared the smoke.
“Take care of Louise!” Hermione shouted. “I have to return to the battle!”
“Alright,” John said, hefting his rifle.
Seamus nodded, setting Louise down for Sally-Anne to work on her.
Hermione looked at them, then nodded. They knew what they were facing.
She turned around and cast two more spells to keep the passage open, then ran
through it. Ron and Harry needed her help.
through it. Ron and Harry needed her help.
---
Harry Potter found himself back in his body, on his speeding broom.
Disoriented, he barely managed to keep his grip on the shaft before he crashed
into Voldemort. If not for the Sticking Charm, he’d have been thrown off his
broom. As it was, he spun around, scraping over the cobblestones until he
slammed into the remains of a wall.
Disoriented, he barely managed to keep his grip on the shaft before he crashed
into Voldemort. If not for the Sticking Charm, he’d have been thrown off his
broom. As it was, he spun around, scraping over the cobblestones until he
slammed into the remains of a wall.
His shoulder hurt, but he’d had worse in training. Much worse.
He ended the charm and rolled off his broom, wand pointed at the Dark Lord. Or
rather, at Voldemort’s corpse. The inhuman face seemed frozen in a grimace,
sightless eyes staring at nothing. It appeared that Dumbledore had been
correct — without his soul, the body the Dark Lord had created for his revival
would not keep breathing.
rather, at Voldemort’s corpse. The inhuman face seemed frozen in a grimace,
sightless eyes staring at nothing. It appeared that Dumbledore had been
correct — without his soul, the body the Dark Lord had created for his revival
would not keep breathing.
Harry thought that he should feel bad — he had destroyed Voldemort. Had
crushed the man’s mind, just like the prophecy had foretold and Dumbledore had
planned. He might even have destroyed the Dark Lord’s soul — Dumbledore hadn’t
really explained the exact consequences, past telling him that it would mean
the end of Voldemort despite his soul anchors.
crushed the man’s mind, just like the prophecy had foretold and Dumbledore had
planned. He might even have destroyed the Dark Lord’s soul — Dumbledore hadn’t
really explained the exact consequences, past telling him that it would mean
the end of Voldemort despite his soul anchors.
But there was no time to think about all that. He had to find Ron and Sirius!
They had crashed, and should be nearby. Somewhere.
They had crashed, and should be nearby. Somewhere.
Harry turned around, trying to orient himself. Sirius had crashed… about
there. And Ron… there. For a moment, he didn’t know who he should be looking
for first. Ron, he decided. He should be closer. He grabbed his broom, then
looked up. The smoke was settling, it seemed. He didn’t know if it was still
dangerous — Ron had flown through a cloud without being hurt — but he decided
not to risk it, and sent a gust of wind upward before setting out on foot.
there. And Ron… there. For a moment, he didn’t know who he should be looking
for first. Ron, he decided. He should be closer. He grabbed his broom, then
looked up. The smoke was settling, it seemed. He didn’t know if it was still
dangerous — Ron had flown through a cloud without being hurt — but he decided
not to risk it, and sent a gust of wind upward before setting out on foot.
After a few steps he stopped, and turned around.
“Accio Voldemort’s wand!”
Harry didn’t try to catch the wand flying at him, but blew it up before it
reached him. This time, no follower of the Dark Lord would pick up his wand.
reached him. This time, no follower of the Dark Lord would pick up his wand.
Movement on his right side made him jump behind the closest cover and aim his
wand before he checked who it was.
wand before he checked who it was.
“Don’t curse, it’s me!”
Aberforth Dumbledore was standing there, leaning against the wall. The old
wizard was breathing heavily, and his left arm hung down at his side, covered
with blood. He coughed, then made a motion towards the body with his head. “Is
he dead?”
wizard was breathing heavily, and his left arm hung down at his side, covered
with blood. He coughed, then made a motion towards the body with his head. “Is
he dead?”
“Yes,” Harry said. “He’s dead. Did you see the others? Ron? Sirius?”
“No.” Aberforth shook his head. “Moody’s dead,” he added, pointing at a stone
sphere nearby.
sphere nearby.
“Are you alright?” Harry asked. It was a stupid question — the man was
obviously hurt.
obviously hurt.
But Aberforth seemed to know what he had really been asking. “I’m not about to
fall over dead. You arrived just in time.” Harry was about to move when the
old wizard added: “But there’re still Death Eaters around. Be careful. They
might not even have realised that their master has fallen.”
fall over dead. You arrived just in time.” Harry was about to move when the
old wizard added: “But there’re still Death Eaters around. Be careful. They
might not even have realised that their master has fallen.”
“I need to find Ron and Sirius,” Harry said. Mopping up the last Death Eaters
could wait.
could wait.
And, he added to himself, if either his best friend or his godfather had died,
he wouldn’t take any prisoners.
he wouldn’t take any prisoners.
---
Ron Weasley glanced around the corner, wincing when his wounded side touched
the wall, and spotted two Death Eaters running towards him. They seemed to be
fleeing, paying more attention to their rear than their front. Unfortunately,
if he tried to cast from around the corner, he’d have to expose himself since
he was right-handed. Taking a deep breath, he leaned with his back against the
wall, wand out, and waited. And hoped they ran past the side alley so he could
curse them in the back.
the wall, and spotted two Death Eaters running towards him. They seemed to be
fleeing, paying more attention to their rear than their front. Unfortunately,
if he tried to cast from around the corner, he’d have to expose himself since
he was right-handed. Taking a deep breath, he leaned with his back against the
wall, wand out, and waited. And hoped they ran past the side alley so he could
curse them in the back.
Sadly, they rounded the corner and came straight at him. His Bludgeoning Curse
smashed into the first Death Eater, shattering his mask and probably his
skull, and sending the man tumbling towards the other Death Eater. That one
dodged to the side, though, and whipped his wand around.
smashed into the first Death Eater, shattering his mask and probably his
skull, and sending the man tumbling towards the other Death Eater. That one
dodged to the side, though, and whipped his wand around.
Ron dropped to the ground, then rolled to the side, gasping at the pain this
caused to his bleeding side, and the Death Eater’s curse hit the wall behind
him. No splinters or fragments rained down on him, so it hadn’t blown up, Ron
noted as he came up in a crouch and sent two Piercing Curses at his enemy.
caused to his bleeding side, and the Death Eater’s curse hit the wall behind
him. No splinters or fragments rained down on him, so it hadn’t blown up, Ron
noted as he came up in a crouch and sent two Piercing Curses at his enemy.
The Death Eater took a step to the side — a duellist move, Ron realised — but
one curse still hit his shield, shattering it. A weak duellist, Ron added. His
own Shield Charm withstood the man’s next curse, and another Bludgeoning Curse
hit the Death Eater in the stomach, doubling him over before Ron hit the man
with a Cutting Curse in the throat. A Piercing Curse to the head killed him
before he drowned in his own blood, and Ron sent another into the first Death
Eater. ‘Never leave an enemy where he could be saved by others’, as Moody
always said.
one curse still hit his shield, shattering it. A weak duellist, Ron added. His
own Shield Charm withstood the man’s next curse, and another Bludgeoning Curse
hit the Death Eater in the stomach, doubling him over before Ron hit the man
with a Cutting Curse in the throat. A Piercing Curse to the head killed him
before he drowned in his own blood, and Ron sent another into the first Death
Eater. ‘Never leave an enemy where he could be saved by others’, as Moody
always said.
A quick glance told Ron that his bandage was soaked through. He downed another
Blood-Replenishing Potion, his last, and took a few deep breaths. Moving his
wand arm was even more painful now than before, but he wasn’t about to
collapse. Not yet.
Blood-Replenishing Potion, his last, and took a few deep breaths. Moving his
wand arm was even more painful now than before, but he wasn’t about to
collapse. Not yet.
Some of the dark smoke was drifting too close, and he sent it away with a
quick spell. The bezoar powder should have neutralised it, but Ron didn’t know
how far his dust had spread. He pressed his teeth together and forced himself
to go on.
quick spell. The bezoar powder should have neutralised it, but Ron didn’t know
how far his dust had spread. He pressed his teeth together and forced himself
to go on.
---
Hermione Granger whipped her wand around in a semi-circle, transfiguring the
cobblestones in front of her into a makeshift barrier while ducking behind it.
Just in time to absorb the shards from the conjured wall she had placed
further ahead. “Death Eaters ahead!” she yelled, reinforcing the barrier. They
were out of the range of her Human-presence-revealing Spell, but from the
volume of curses hitting her cover, there had to be at least two.
cobblestones in front of her into a makeshift barrier while ducking behind it.
Just in time to absorb the shards from the conjured wall she had placed
further ahead. “Death Eaters ahead!” she yelled, reinforcing the barrier. They
were out of the range of her Human-presence-revealing Spell, but from the
volume of curses hitting her cover, there had to be at least two.
A moment later, she heard Seamus and John open fire. Long bursts. Covering
fire. She transfigured the cobblestones nearby into another wall, leading to
the ruins of the closest building, then sprinted.
fire. She transfigured the cobblestones nearby into another wall, leading to
the ruins of the closest building, then sprinted.
“Got one!” Seamus yelled.
“The other ducked inside the collapsed building,” John reported.
Hermione keyed her radio. “Keep firing, I’m going closer.”
Once they started to shoot again — slower, semi-automatic fire now — she took
a deep breath, disillusioned herself, then ran towards the enemy position in a
crooked, weaving path. She was panting heavily when she dropped behind the
remains of a wall and could spot a marker floating above the corner.
a deep breath, disillusioned herself, then ran towards the enemy position in a
crooked, weaving path. She was panting heavily when she dropped behind the
remains of a wall and could spot a marker floating above the corner.
“Avis!” she whispered, and sent a flock of birds at the Death Eater. They
wouldn’t hurt him, but he wouldn’t know that, and they’d distract him. Then
she rose from behind her cover, to cast two Blasting Curses at the base of the
corner — and barely managed to drop down to avoid a barrage of curses,
scraping her chin on some rubble in the process.
wouldn’t hurt him, but he wouldn’t know that, and they’d distract him. Then
she rose from behind her cover, to cast two Blasting Curses at the base of the
corner — and barely managed to drop down to avoid a barrage of curses,
scraping her chin on some rubble in the process.
The enemy wizard was good. She rolled to the side and scrambled away on all
fours. Behind her, a dark cloud appeared over her former position, followed by
an explosion that pelted her Shield Charm with fragments — he must have
banished a rock in the air before hitting it with a Blasting Curse, she
realised. Definitely an experienced wizard.
fours. Behind her, a dark cloud appeared over her former position, followed by
an explosion that pelted her Shield Charm with fragments — he must have
banished a rock in the air before hitting it with a Blasting Curse, she
realised. Definitely an experienced wizard.
John and Seamus were still providing covering fire, but if the enemy was this
skilled, then he’d know his shield would stand up to several single shots. She
dived around a corner, and pushed her radio’s button. “John, Seamus — his
shield’s too strong. Move closer and flank him. But be careful — he’s very
good.”
skilled, then he’d know his shield would stand up to several single shots. She
dived around a corner, and pushed her radio’s button. “John, Seamus — his
shield’s too strong. Move closer and flank him. But be careful — he’s very
good.”
She kept moving — the unknown Death Eater, probably a member of Voldemort’s
Inner Circle, had a Human-presence-revealing spell of his own active. And he’d
anticipate her course as well.
Inner Circle, had a Human-presence-revealing spell of his own active. And he’d
anticipate her course as well.
She stopped, then rushed back from where she had come. Behind her the area
vanished in a dark cloud, followed by another explosion in the air. Almost
predictable. She dived behind some rubble, then changed directions again,
moving further into the building. That would hamper his casting.
vanished in a dark cloud, followed by another explosion in the air. Almost
predictable. She dived behind some rubble, then changed directions again,
moving further into the building. That would hamper his casting.
“Avis!”
More birds sped towards the Death Eater. Would he expect them to be harmless
still, or suspect a trap? She hoped for the latter.
still, or suspect a trap? She hoped for the latter.
Nearby, part of the wall blew up. She recast her Shield Charm after weathering
the resulting hail of splinters. Where were Seamus and John? There! She
spotted their markers appearing within range. The enemy was now flanked. Which
meant he would either fall back, or charge towards her. And since he had been
moving towards her when they met, trying to escape the Alley… Her eyes
widened. Two Death Eaters, moving away from the twins’ shop, and no sign of
the Dark Lord? Harry must have killed him!
the resulting hail of splinters. Where were Seamus and John? There! She
spotted their markers appearing within range. The enemy was now flanked. Which
meant he would either fall back, or charge towards her. And since he had been
moving towards her when they met, trying to escape the Alley… Her eyes
widened. Two Death Eaters, moving away from the twins’ shop, and no sign of
the Dark Lord? Harry must have killed him!
Smiling, she moved to the side, reaching into her enchanted pocket. A quick
Doubling Charm later, several bricks of Semtex were spread on the ground. She
moved further away, to flank the enemy — and opening a path to escape at the
same time. Straight through her former spot.
Doubling Charm later, several bricks of Semtex were spread on the ground. She
moved further away, to flank the enemy — and opening a path to escape at the
same time. Straight through her former spot.
Suddenly, several explosions shook the ruins, forcing her to drop to the
ground. She looked up even as her shield was hit by dozens of rock fragments,
and saw the floating marker move — right towards her trap. Grinning, she
yelled “Take cover!” into her radio, then pushed the button of the emitter in
her hand.
ground. She looked up even as her shield was hit by dozens of rock fragments,
and saw the floating marker move — right towards her trap. Grinning, she
yelled “Take cover!” into her radio, then pushed the button of the emitter in
her hand.
Part of the ruins disappeared in a huge fireball while she pressed herself
into the ground, mouth open and hands pressed over her ears. A wave of heat
washed over her, and a rock the size of her head bounced off her shield. Then
everything vanished in a cloud of dust and smoke.
into the ground, mouth open and hands pressed over her ears. A wave of heat
washed over her, and a rock the size of her head bounced off her shield. Then
everything vanished in a cloud of dust and smoke.
---
Harry Potter crept forward, forcing himself to move slowly, cautiously,
instead of rushing. He wouldn’t be able to help either Ron or Sirius if he got
himself killed by stumbling into an ambush. And Aberforth was not able to move
that quickly either — the old wizard was certainly more hurt than he admitted.
And splitting up would be a bad idea, with an unknown number of enemies in the
area. But still… “Why are you taking the body with you?” he asked when he
couldn’t contain himself any more, nodding at the corpse of Voldemort floating
behind them.
instead of rushing. He wouldn’t be able to help either Ron or Sirius if he got
himself killed by stumbling into an ambush. And Aberforth was not able to move
that quickly either — the old wizard was certainly more hurt than he admitted.
And splitting up would be a bad idea, with an unknown number of enemies in the
area. But still… “Why are you taking the body with you?” he asked when he
couldn’t contain himself any more, nodding at the corpse of Voldemort floating
behind them.
“I don’t want anyone to take it. You never know what they’d try to do with
it,” Aberforth answered.
it,” Aberforth answered.
Harry didn’t think there was much that anyone could do with the carcass. A
zombie-Voldemort might scare the Ministry forces, if there were any left, but
that wouldn’t really do much. He pushed the thought away. He had to focus on
saving Sirius and Ron.
zombie-Voldemort might scare the Ministry forces, if there were any left, but
that wouldn’t really do much. He pushed the thought away. He had to focus on
saving Sirius and Ron.
He quickly glanced around the corner, even though his Human-presence-revealing
Spell didn’t show anyone close by. Moody’s training had emphasised not to
trust any spell — someone, somewhere, would have a counter. The alley was
clear. Or not exactly clear — there were the remains of a broom on the ground,
the remains of a burned body further away, and some scattered body parts at
the mouth of the alley.
Spell didn’t show anyone close by. Moody’s training had emphasised not to
trust any spell — someone, somewhere, would have a counter. The alley was
clear. Or not exactly clear — there were the remains of a broom on the ground,
the remains of a burned body further away, and some scattered body parts at
the mouth of the alley.
Harry moved forward, barely covering the various broken windows and smashed
doors with his wand. It was Ron’s broom. And his blood, he added to himself,
spotting the stains on the ground. But the body… he stepped closer, then saw
the burned fragments of Auror robes. It wasn’t Ron! And the other body parts
were too small. His friend was still alive.
doors with his wand. It was Ron’s broom. And his blood, he added to himself,
spotting the stains on the ground. But the body… he stepped closer, then saw
the burned fragments of Auror robes. It wasn’t Ron! And the other body parts
were too small. His friend was still alive.
Unless, Harry thought, he had been turned into a zombie. Like the kid who had
been blown apart here. He pressed his lips together. Ron had to still be
alive! He looked around, but he didn’t spot any other blood stains on the
ground. Where had Ron gone?
been blown apart here. He pressed his lips together. Ron had to still be
alive! He looked around, but he didn’t spot any other blood stains on the
ground. Where had Ron gone?
“We need to move on,” Aberforth said behind him. “Nothing left here.”
Harry knew that, but refrained from angrily pointing out that he had just been
thinking where to move. Instead he nodded, and moved past the corpse, into the
Alley. Then he heard the explosions, and his eyes widened.
thinking where to move. Instead he nodded, and moved past the corpse, into the
Alley. Then he heard the explosions, and his eyes widened.
“Blasting Curses!” Aberforth muttered next to him.
Harry nodded. “Someone’s fighting.” Which meant someone needed help. Maybe
Ron, or Sirius. He started to move towards the direction of the noise when a
much louder explosion made him stop. A fireball erupted further ahead, far too
big for a Blasting Curse or even a Bombarda.
Ron, or Sirius. He started to move towards the direction of the noise when a
much louder explosion made him stop. A fireball erupted further ahead, far too
big for a Blasting Curse or even a Bombarda.
That had to be a bomb! Hermione!
He sped up. If the Resistance was using explosives on that scale, they had to
be in a bad situation.
be in a bad situation.
---
When he opened his eyes and didn’t feel much pain, Sirius Black first feared
that he had died, and had become a ghost. Then he realised that someone was
moving a wand over his face. He knew that wand.
that he had died, and had become a ghost. Then he realised that someone was
moving a wand over his face. He knew that wand.
“You’ve been very lucky.”
He knew that voice.
“I know,” he said, turning his head to look at Vivienne. The French witch
looked radiant, even with her face smudged with soot and dirt, and her robes
torn — and not in a sexy way.
looked radiant, even with her face smudged with soot and dirt, and her robes
torn — and not in a sexy way.
“I saw you fall, but with all the cursed smoke around, I couldn’t fly to you.
You were seriously ’urt.” The Veela stared at him with an unreadable
expression.
You were seriously ’urt.” The Veela stared at him with an unreadable
expression.
He smiled. “Any curses?”
“No. But you’ll need Skele-Gro. I numbed your arm, but…”
He glanced at his arm. The arm he couldn’t feel, he realised. The arm that
looked rather… floppy. “You vanished my bones?” He looked at her. Harry had
told him how much Skele-Gro that would take. And how much it would hurt.
looked rather… floppy. “You vanished my bones?” He looked at her. Harry had
told him how much Skele-Gro that would take. And how much it would hurt.
“It was that, or let the splinters tear you up from the inside.” She smiled.
“I mended the ribs, though, and your leg.”
“I mended the ribs, though, and your leg.”
He had been hurt worse than he had thought, Sirius realised. Of course, unlike
a Quidditch pitch, the streets lacked Cushioning Charms. And he hadn’t managed
to cast one in time himself. Or had missed the spot he was falling towards —
his memory was a bit vague.
a Quidditch pitch, the streets lacked Cushioning Charms. And he hadn’t managed
to cast one in time himself. Or had missed the spot he was falling towards —
his memory was a bit vague.
“It’s not my wand arm,” he said, and sat up — only to hiss in pain.
“You’re still hurt.”
“Now you tell me.” He had suffered worse, of course. Compared to losing your
best friends, and suffering in Azkaban, a bit of physical pain was nothing.
And Harry needed him. Harry!
best friends, and suffering in Azkaban, a bit of physical pain was nothing.
And Harry needed him. Harry!
He stood up, grunting in pain. “I’ll need to help Harry.” He looked around.
Where was he? And where was Harry?
Where was he? And where was Harry?
A huge fireball erupted a few houses away. He glanced at Vivienne. “Where are
the others?” Where were the rest of the Delacours and d’Aigles?
the others?” Where were the rest of the Delacours and d’Aigles?
She pressed her lips together for a moment, then shook her head. “I was
separated from the ones on the ground.”
separated from the ones on the ground.”
He didn’t ask about the others who had been in the air. Her expression told
him enough. But people were still fighting. They were still needed. He ignored
her hand — even short one arm, he didn’t need help to walk.
him enough. But people were still fighting. They were still needed. He ignored
her hand — even short one arm, he didn’t need help to walk.
“Let’s go!”
---
Ron Weasley almost fell over when he heard the explosion, and saw the fireball
rise above the roofs — those left standing — of the buildings nearby. Close
by, someone was fighting, and fighting hard. Harry, or Hermione, probably. Or
if they weren’t, they’d be attracted to the explosion.
rise above the roofs — those left standing — of the buildings nearby. Close
by, someone was fighting, and fighting hard. Harry, or Hermione, probably. Or
if they weren’t, they’d be attracted to the explosion.
He snorted, and steadied himself. His side was still hurting, and he was now
leaving a trail of blood, but he could still go on. Could still fight, if not
for long, he added to himself. But staying where he was wouldn’t help him
either.
leaving a trail of blood, but he could still go on. Could still fight, if not
for long, he added to himself. But staying where he was wouldn’t help him
either.
Limping, he started towards the closest alley leading to the explosion. He
felt a twinge in his ankle, and numbed it again before the pain grew too
strong. If only he still had his broom! Or a replacement. Or another
Blood-Replenishing Potion. Moody would simply tell him that he hadn’t been
prepared enough.
felt a twinge in his ankle, and numbed it again before the pain grew too
strong. If only he still had his broom! Or a replacement. Or another
Blood-Replenishing Potion. Moody would simply tell him that he hadn’t been
prepared enough.
While he stumbled through the narrow alley, he wondered where everyone was. He
hadn’t met a single soul in minutes. Had everyone fled? Or had they died in
the smoke? Had they forgotten him, and evacuated the area? Or had he died, and
was now stumbling through the afterlife?
hadn’t met a single soul in minutes. Had everyone fled? Or had they died in
the smoke? Had they forgotten him, and evacuated the area? Or had he died, and
was now stumbling through the afterlife?
He snorted at the thought. He was quite certain that the afterlife didn’t look
like the burning remains of a part of Diagon Alley. Another corner — he hurt
himself some more when he lost his balance and had to catch himself against
the wall — and he was in the main Alley again. The explosion had to be close…
but so many ruins were burning.
like the burning remains of a part of Diagon Alley. Another corner — he hurt
himself some more when he lost his balance and had to catch himself against
the wall — and he was in the main Alley again. The explosion had to be close…
but so many ruins were burning.
Movement at his flank drew his attention, and he whirled around, wand raised,
then blinked when he recognised the clothes — the uniform — of the Resistance.
He lowered his wand, staring at the firearm — the rifle — aimed at him.
then blinked when he recognised the clothes — the uniform — of the Resistance.
He lowered his wand, staring at the firearm — the rifle — aimed at him.
“Ron?”
He knew that voice. “Seamus?”
“Hermione! I’ve found one of your boyfriends!”
Ron snorted, then winced at the pain that caused. He was the boyfriend of
Hermione, singular. And he hadn’t been found — they had met each other.
Hermione, singular. And he hadn’t been found — they had met each other.
He saw Hermione appear behind a heap of rubble. She was alive. And unhurt. He
started to smile, and wave… then winced again when he felt a stabbing pain in
his side. He saw her eyes widen, saw her rush towards him, her mouth was
opening, but he couldn’t hear her words, and why was she turning sideways? Oh,
he was falling.
started to smile, and wave… then winced again when he felt a stabbing pain in
his side. He saw her eyes widen, saw her rush towards him, her mouth was
opening, but he couldn’t hear her words, and why was she turning sideways? Oh,
he was falling.
Then everything went dark.
---
“Ron!” Hermione Granger yelled, rushing towards her collapsing boyfriend. She
flicked her wand, casting a Cushioning Charm just in time to prevent him from
falling onto the rubble next to him.
flicked her wand, casting a Cushioning Charm just in time to prevent him from
falling onto the rubble next to him.
Behind her, Seamus was cursing, but she had only eyes for Ron. She reached
him, dropping to her knees, heedless of the sharp rocks hurting her legs while
she ran her wand over his body. When she discovered the wound in his side,
bleeding through a bandage, she hissed. And when her Charm failed to close it,
she cursed herself. Of course, she should have expected that — Ron would have
closed it himself, if that had been possible.
him, dropping to her knees, heedless of the sharp rocks hurting her legs while
she ran her wand over his body. When she discovered the wound in his side,
bleeding through a bandage, she hissed. And when her Charm failed to close it,
she cursed herself. Of course, she should have expected that — Ron would have
closed it himself, if that had been possible.
But… he was pale. Gasping, she reached into her potion pocket and pulled out a
Blood-Replenishing Potion. While she flicked the stopper off and grabbed Ron’s
head to pour it into his mouth, she yelled to Seamus. “I need more
Blood-Replenishing Potions! And we need to get him to St Mungo’s!”
Blood-Replenishing Potion. While she flicked the stopper off and grabbed Ron’s
head to pour it into his mouth, she yelled to Seamus. “I need more
Blood-Replenishing Potions! And we need to get him to St Mungo’s!”
“The jinxes are still up,” John said, running towards her and pressing two
vials into her hand. “And the explosion will attract some company.”
vials into her hand. “And the explosion will attract some company.”
Hermione forced herself to calm down. She couldn’t panic. She had a
responsibility for her group. “Seamus, cover the north! John, cover the south
approach. I’ll stabilise him, and then we’ll fall back to Sally-Anne, to
evacuate him.” Ron would be safe at St Mungo’s. He was a pureblood, and not a
member of the Resistance.
responsibility for her group. “Seamus, cover the north! John, cover the south
approach. I’ll stabilise him, and then we’ll fall back to Sally-Anne, to
evacuate him.” Ron would be safe at St Mungo’s. He was a pureblood, and not a
member of the Resistance.
To their credit, neither wizard asked if she could stabilise Ron as they took
up positions nearby. She focused on her friend again, trusting the two to do
their job. The bandage was soaked through, but a Cleaning Charm solved that.
And yet… she bit her lower lip, then tried to pull the edge of the bandage
off. She didn’t manage — Ron had used a Sticking Charm.
up positions nearby. She focused on her friend again, trusting the two to do
their job. The bandage was soaked through, but a Cleaning Charm solved that.
And yet… she bit her lower lip, then tried to pull the edge of the bandage
off. She didn’t manage — Ron had used a Sticking Charm.
“Finite!”
When she saw the wound, and the amount of blood flowing from it, she felt as
if she had been punched in the gut. A cursed wound, of this size… she hastily
poured another potion into Ron’s mouth. She had to stop the bleeding, slow it
down at least. And magic wouldn’t work. She did what she could using her first
aid training. She really needed Sally-Anne. But if she moved Ron like that…
she wiped some tears from her eyes, then put the bandage back on, doing her
best to put pressure on the wound.
if she had been punched in the gut. A cursed wound, of this size… she hastily
poured another potion into Ron’s mouth. She had to stop the bleeding, slow it
down at least. And magic wouldn’t work. She did what she could using her first
aid training. She really needed Sally-Anne. But if she moved Ron like that…
she wiped some tears from her eyes, then put the bandage back on, doing her
best to put pressure on the wound.
Then she had a thought. If St Mungo’s couldn’t counter the curse, and with
Voldemort having cast it, that was far too likely, then they wouldn’t be able
to do anything for Ron. It might be best if she took him to a muggle hospital…
but they’d be unable to do anything about the curse either. And they wouldn’t
be able to use potions to keep him alive.
Voldemort having cast it, that was far too likely, then they wouldn’t be able
to do anything for Ron. It might be best if she took him to a muggle hospital…
but they’d be unable to do anything about the curse either. And they wouldn’t
be able to use potions to keep him alive.
She bit her lower lip so hard it started to bleed. What should she do?
---
“Thicklestone! Take your squad and move ahead!”
Amelia Bones nodded in silent approval of Pius’s orders. The Hit-Wizards’
training focused on combat and they were therefore the best choice for such a
task. Of course, given the casualties the Hit-Wizards had taken in this war,
and how the training of the new recruits had been rushed, the differences
between rookie Aurors and Hit-Wizards were negligible, but that wouldn’t stay
that way, and it was best to do things as they should be done from the start.
training focused on combat and they were therefore the best choice for such a
task. Of course, given the casualties the Hit-Wizards had taken in this war,
and how the training of the new recruits had been rushed, the differences
between rookie Aurors and Hit-Wizards were negligible, but that wouldn’t stay
that way, and it was best to do things as they should be done from the start.
A minute after Thicklestone had moved into the Alley, the main force followed,
including Amelia, Pius and Dawlish. Amelia pressed her lips together to avoid
cursing when she saw the smoke covering the lower parts of Diagon Alley.
including Amelia, Pius and Dawlish. Amelia pressed her lips together to avoid
cursing when she saw the smoke covering the lower parts of Diagon Alley.
“The Obliviators stated that the smoke is no threat to the Statute,” Pius
said. “Not any more, at least.”
said. “Not any more, at least.”
Amelia hoped that meant it wasn’t dangerous any more either. Not that she
could do much about it — the broom riders in the air were needed to spot
ambushes, and attack from above. They couldn’t be sent to chase smoke clouds.
Not while there was still fighting in the Alley. Or what was left of the
Alley, she silently amended when they reached the first ruin.
could do much about it — the broom riders in the air were needed to spot
ambushes, and attack from above. They couldn’t be sent to chase smoke clouds.
Not while there was still fighting in the Alley. Or what was left of the
Alley, she silently amended when they reached the first ruin.
“The Death Eaters focused on Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes,” Dawlish repeated an
earlier report. “But obviously, the fighting and the damage has spread out.”
earlier report. “But obviously, the fighting and the damage has spread out.”
“Obviously,” Amelia said, and Dawlish flinched slightly.
They had reached the first body — a French wizard, Amelia thought. Or someone
else in a fancy robe. More corpses followed, most of them torn or blown apart,
or burned horribly. One of the rookies vomited right next to a burned corpse
small enough to be a child.
else in a fancy robe. More corpses followed, most of them torn or blown apart,
or burned horribly. One of the rookies vomited right next to a burned corpse
small enough to be a child.
Amelia didn’t flinch. She had seen worse. And she had expected worse. They
were facing the Dark Lord, after all. An alley further, they met the first
survivors — two wounded French wizards, a Veela and a member of Dumbledore’s
Order — Bill Weasley, Amelia recognised him. A former head boy of Hogwarts
hiring on with Gringotts, instead of with the Ministry had been a small
scandal, a few years ago. In hindsight, Amelia was glad that he hadn’t joined
her department. He would have been trouble. Like Nymphadora Tonks, who hadn’t
reported in when called upon. That Auror had better have been already engaged
in the Alley, Amelia thought. She loathed deserters.
were facing the Dark Lord, after all. An alley further, they met the first
survivors — two wounded French wizards, a Veela and a member of Dumbledore’s
Order — Bill Weasley, Amelia recognised him. A former head boy of Hogwarts
hiring on with Gringotts, instead of with the Ministry had been a small
scandal, a few years ago. In hindsight, Amelia was glad that he hadn’t joined
her department. He would have been trouble. Like Nymphadora Tonks, who hadn’t
reported in when called upon. That Auror had better have been already engaged
in the Alley, Amelia thought. She loathed deserters.
They left the rookie who had lost his lunch with the wounded and orders to
help get them to St Mungo’s and moved on — through ruined houses, some of them
barely more than patches of rubble, others still burning. As Mr Weasley had
informed them, his parents had pushed on to reach his brothers’ shop.
help get them to St Mungo’s and moved on — through ruined houses, some of them
barely more than patches of rubble, others still burning. As Mr Weasley had
informed them, his parents had pushed on to reach his brothers’ shop.
Houses were not the only thing burning — a lot of corpses were burned as well,
Amelia noticed. She didn’t smell the stench, fortunately, since she had cast a
Bubble-Head Charm when they had set out, but once again, a few Aurors and
Hit-Wizards either had forgotten to take the bare minimum of precautions
against poison, or couldn’t cast the spell, and were now emptying their
stomachs. They really were scraping the bottom of the cauldron here, Amelia
thought.
Amelia noticed. She didn’t smell the stench, fortunately, since she had cast a
Bubble-Head Charm when they had set out, but once again, a few Aurors and
Hit-Wizards either had forgotten to take the bare minimum of precautions
against poison, or couldn’t cast the spell, and were now emptying their
stomachs. They really were scraping the bottom of the cauldron here, Amelia
thought.
She really hoped that the Order and the Resistance had managed to defeat the
Dark Lord, or this would turn ugly.
Dark Lord, or this would turn ugly.
They passed more burning houses, and reached the remains of the Weasleys’
shop.
shop.
“Looks like their wards didn’t hold,” Dawlish commented. “Fiendfyre, I think.”
Amelia didn’t say ‘obviously’ again. It wouldn’t do to undermine Dawlish’s
authority. She studied the crushed walls in the middle of the street instead.
“Conjured cover,” Pius said. “Would have been the Curse-Breakers’ position.”
authority. She studied the crushed walls in the middle of the street instead.
“Conjured cover,” Pius said. “Would have been the Curse-Breakers’ position.”
Amelia nodded in agreement. A few bodies in dark robes were strewn around the
area, but there was no sign of either the Weasley twins, or their parents.
area, but there was no sign of either the Weasley twins, or their parents.
“Where are they?” an Auror asked near them. “Where is everyone?”
“Shut up, Baker!” Dawlish yelled, “And keep your eyes open!”
One of their broom riders descended. “There’s a group of people two alleys
down! Didn’t look like Death Eaters. No masks or robes.”
down! Didn’t look like Death Eaters. No masks or robes.”
Amelia nodded. Probably the survivors of the Resistance, then. Time to meet
them.
them.
---
Harry Potter turned around the corner, wand out, expecting a fight — but there
was no one fighting. That Ravenclaw, Emmet, was behind some rubble, aiming his
assault rifle at him.
was no one fighting. That Ravenclaw, Emmet, was behind some rubble, aiming his
assault rifle at him.
“Harry Potter?” The other wizard didn’t stand up, and his rifle didn’t waver.
“Yes.” Harry wasn’t that worried — his Shield Charm should stand up to a few
bullets, at least. He hadn’t tested it, but Hermione had.
bullets, at least. He hadn’t tested it, but Hermione had.
“Hermione! Potter’s here!” Emmet yelled.
“Harry?”
That was Hermione’s voice. Harry rushed past Emmet, around the corner hiding
Hermione from view, then stopped, horrified. She was covered in blood! And
kneeling next to Ron. It was Ron’s blood!
Hermione from view, then stopped, horrified. She was covered in blood! And
kneeling next to Ron. It was Ron’s blood!
Harry muttered a curse under his breath while he moved to them. “Ron! What the
hell happened?” Of course, he knew what had happened — Voldemort had cursed
his friend.
hell happened?” Of course, he knew what had happened — Voldemort had cursed
his friend.
“It’s a dark curse — healing spells have no effect. I think we better take him
to a muggle hospital, they’ll be able to do something… but I am not sure if we
can apparate him in his state.” Hermione sounded as desperate as she looked.
“Do you have a Blood-Replenishing Potion?”
to a muggle hospital, they’ll be able to do something… but I am not sure if we
can apparate him in his state.” Hermione sounded as desperate as she looked.
“Do you have a Blood-Replenishing Potion?”
Harry dug the three he carried out from his enchanted pocket and handed them
over.
over.
“Blimey! That’s the Dark Lord!”
Emmet’s shout made Hermione jump up. She had drawn a pistol with blood-soaked
hands before Harry managed to speak up. “He’s dead. I killed him.”
hands before Harry managed to speak up. “He’s dead. I killed him.”
She whipped her head around, staring at him. He nodded. For a moment, she
seemed frozen, staring at the corner where Emmet was, then she turned back to
Ron.
seemed frozen, staring at the corner where Emmet was, then she turned back to
Ron.
“The Dark Lord’s dead?” That was Seamus’s voice, through the radio.
“He’s dead?”
And that was Justin, probably, Harry thought, as more voices filled the air.
Aberforth turned around the corner, followed by the floating corpse of
Voldemort. Even Hermione stared at it, for a second or two, as the wizard set
it down in the middle of the street.
Aberforth turned around the corner, followed by the floating corpse of
Voldemort. Even Hermione stared at it, for a second or two, as the wizard set
it down in the middle of the street.
No one said anything. Hermione made Ron drink another potion, and called for
Perks on the radio. Apparently, that witch was their designated medic, or
Healer.
Perks on the radio. Apparently, that witch was their designated medic, or
Healer.
“Harry!”
He whirled around. Sirius was there! Alive! And standing. Leaning on Vivienne,
who looked rather battered herself, but he was standing. But his arm! Harry
felt as if his blood had frozen when he saw his godfather’s left arm dangling
uselessly.
who looked rather battered herself, but he was standing. But his arm! Harry
felt as if his blood had frozen when he saw his godfather’s left arm dangling
uselessly.
He rushed forward. “Sirius! Your arm!”
His godfather smiled. “Oh, that? Vivienne had to vanish my bones.”
Harry sighed with relief. It wasn’t the Withering Curse, then. He went and
hugged his godfather. Sirius was alive. Not too badly hurt, either. The Dark
Lord was dead, and Harry’s friends and family were alive. He had done it!
hugged his godfather. Sirius was alive. Not too badly hurt, either. The Dark
Lord was dead, and Harry’s friends and family were alive. He had done it!
“Sirius! Do you have Blood-Replenishing Potions? I need them! Ron needs them!”
Hermione’s voice reminded him that not all of his friends were safe yet, and
he felt guilty for forgetting, even for an instant, about Ron.
Hermione’s voice reminded him that not all of his friends were safe yet, and
he felt guilty for forgetting, even for an instant, about Ron.
Then he felt like slapping himself, and hurried back to Ron, drawing the Elder
Wand.
Wand.
---
Hermione Granger saw Harry kneel next to Ron, and aim his wand at the wound.
She was about to tell him that they had tried that already, then she
remembered just what wand Harry was using. Of course!
She was about to tell him that they had tried that already, then she
remembered just what wand Harry was using. Of course!
Harry was already casting, waving his wand above Ron’s wound.
Hermione bit her lower lip and stared at the wound. The wound hadn’t closed,
but the bleeding had slowed.
but the bleeding had slowed.
“Best I can do,” Harry said, sounding desperate.
“It’ll be enough,” she said, forcing herself to smile. “Until we can get him
to a hospital.”
to a hospital.”
He nodded, then got up, standing there for a moment.
Then Justin and the others arrived, and Hermione felt like hexing her friends
— they were staring at the Dark Lord’s corpse, even though it wasn’t going
anywhere. Ron still needed help right now! “Sally-Anne! I need those potions!”
— they were staring at the Dark Lord’s corpse, even though it wasn’t going
anywhere. Ron still needed help right now! “Sally-Anne! I need those potions!”
Her friend jerked, then gasped: “Sorry!” She hurried towards them. “Sorry! I
just saw the Dark Lord…”
just saw the Dark Lord…”
Hermione nodded, restraining herself from yelling at Sally-Anne. It wouldn’t
help Ron. “He’s been cursed with a wound that resists magical healing. It’s
still bleeding, so we might need to transport him to a muggle hospital, but he
can’t be apparated in that state.”
help Ron. “He’s been cursed with a wound that resists magical healing. It’s
still bleeding, so we might need to transport him to a muggle hospital, but he
can’t be apparated in that state.”
Sally-Anne nodded, her attention already on the wounded wizard, and started to
remove the bandages entirely. Hermione almost grabbed her hand, but controlled
herself — Sally-Anne had trained for this more than she had. Hermione had to
trust her. As hard as it was. Ron would live, she told herself — muggles
survived such wounds without magic. And the potions would replenish his blood.
He wouldn’t die.
remove the bandages entirely. Hermione almost grabbed her hand, but controlled
herself — Sally-Anne had trained for this more than she had. Hermione had to
trust her. As hard as it was. Ron would live, she told herself — muggles
survived such wounds without magic. And the potions would replenish his blood.
He wouldn’t die.
“We’ve got company!”
Seamus’s alert made her look up. She saw the rest of the Resistance grow
tense. Aberforth as well. That told her who had arrived even before she saw
them.
tense. Aberforth as well. That told her who had arrived even before she saw
them.
The Ministry.
---
Amelia Bones stared at the corpse on the ground. It was the Dark Lord. She had
seen his face in a Pensieve before. Potter had done it. Like Dumbledore had
planned, and the Order had promised. The Boy-Who-Lived was standing right
behind the corpse, watching her. Next to him were Black, his Veela lover, and
the muggleborns in their weird clothes. Granger wasn’t present, though.
seen his face in a Pensieve before. Potter had done it. Like Dumbledore had
planned, and the Order had promised. The Boy-Who-Lived was standing right
behind the corpse, watching her. Next to him were Black, his Veela lover, and
the muggleborns in their weird clothes. Granger wasn’t present, though.
For a moment, Amelia thought, hoped, that the other witch had been killed in
the battle, then she spotted her, kneeling behind Potter, next to another body
lying on the ground. Potter, Black, Granger. And what was left of the
Resistance. All gathered in front of her. Wounded and outnumbered. Amelia
doubted that there were many Death Eaters left either. Britain didn’t need the
Resistance any more, nor the Order. Even weakened as it was, the Ministry
could handle things from this point on. And she knew they’d cause trouble or
worse for the country — that they extorted a blanket pardon from her proved
that. Amelia had but to give the order and things would be settled once and
for all. She wouldn’t be breaking any deals either — technically, with the
Dark Lord dead, the war was over. And she had taken an oath to uphold the law
and defend Britain against any danger.
the battle, then she spotted her, kneeling behind Potter, next to another body
lying on the ground. Potter, Black, Granger. And what was left of the
Resistance. All gathered in front of her. Wounded and outnumbered. Amelia
doubted that there were many Death Eaters left either. Britain didn’t need the
Resistance any more, nor the Order. Even weakened as it was, the Ministry
could handle things from this point on. And she knew they’d cause trouble or
worse for the country — that they extorted a blanket pardon from her proved
that. Amelia had but to give the order and things would be settled once and
for all. She wouldn’t be breaking any deals either — technically, with the
Dark Lord dead, the war was over. And she had taken an oath to uphold the law
and defend Britain against any danger.
But before she could make up her mind, her Aurors and Hit-Wizards realised
what had happened and started to cheer, and the opportunity to secure
Britain’s future had passed.
what had happened and started to cheer, and the opportunity to secure
Britain’s future had passed.
---
Hermione Granger stood up as the arrivals started to fan out. There were more
than two dozen Aurors and Hit-Wizards, in their red and grey robes. Half a
dozen more on brooms in the air. And in the centre was the Minister herself.
Bones.
than two dozen Aurors and Hit-Wizards, in their red and grey robes. Half a
dozen more on brooms in the air. And in the centre was the Minister herself.
Bones.
Hermione snorted — all of them were staring at Voldemort’s body. She stood up
and took a few steps forward, standing next to Harry, right near the Dark
Lord’s corpse, and stared at the Minister. She knew how she looked — covered
in blood — but she didn’t care. Not any more. They had done it. Harry had done
it. Had killed Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Without the Ministry. She saw
Justin step up as well, followed by Tania, both holding their guns at the
ready. Seamus and John were not quite aiming at the Ministry forces, but would
be able to open fire within seconds.
and took a few steps forward, standing next to Harry, right near the Dark
Lord’s corpse, and stared at the Minister. She knew how she looked — covered
in blood — but she didn’t care. Not any more. They had done it. Harry had done
it. Had killed Voldemort and his Death Eaters. Without the Ministry. She saw
Justin step up as well, followed by Tania, both holding their guns at the
ready. Seamus and John were not quite aiming at the Ministry forces, but would
be able to open fire within seconds.
Bones met her eyes, frowning, but the bulk of the Ministry wizards and witches
started to talk loudly and excitedly, apparently unaware of the tension.
started to talk loudly and excitedly, apparently unaware of the tension.
“It’s him!”
“He’s dead!”
“They killed him!”
“The Dark Lord’s gone!”
“It’s over!”
“The war’s over!”
Hermione snorted. The Dark Lord’s death might signal the end of the war. But,
meeting Bones’s eyes, she knew that the real struggle had just begun.
meeting Bones’s eyes, she knew that the real struggle had just begun.
Chapter 42: Repositioning
=========================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox and fredfred for betaing. They improved the
story a lot.
story a lot.
---
**Chapter 42: Repositioning**
*‘Just as with the start of the Second Blood War, there is a considerable
difference of opinion among scholars concerning its end. Some consider the
death of the Dark Lord in the Battle of Diagon Alley the end of the war. I do
not share this view. Leaving aside the fact that there were still several
Death Eaters alive and free, the war had been about more than defeating the
Dark Lord, and the underlying conflict that had led to the war, the blood
status question, had not been at all resolved with the death of the Dark Lord.
Quite the contrary. With their common enemy dead, the Ministry and the
muggleborns were set on a collision course with each other as both struggled
to shape the country’s future.’*
difference of opinion among scholars concerning its end. Some consider the
death of the Dark Lord in the Battle of Diagon Alley the end of the war. I do
not share this view. Leaving aside the fact that there were still several
Death Eaters alive and free, the war had been about more than defeating the
Dark Lord, and the underlying conflict that had led to the war, the blood
status question, had not been at all resolved with the death of the Dark Lord.
Quite the contrary. With their common enemy dead, the Ministry and the
muggleborns were set on a collision course with each other as both struggled
to shape the country’s future.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 1st, 1997**
Amelia Bones kept smiling as she walked through the throng of celebrating
people filling the Ministry’s Atrium. She had to make an effort, though — she
wasn’t feeling like celebrating herself. Half a dozen Aurors and Hit-Wizards
had died in Diagon Alley fighting the Dark Lord but everyone just seemed to be
talking about the Boy-Who-Lived. Just like fifteen years ago. Even her own
people were caught up in it.
people filling the Ministry’s Atrium. She had to make an effort, though — she
wasn’t feeling like celebrating herself. Half a dozen Aurors and Hit-Wizards
had died in Diagon Alley fighting the Dark Lord but everyone just seemed to be
talking about the Boy-Who-Lived. Just like fifteen years ago. Even her own
people were caught up in it.
Once inside her office, she dropped the pretence. As relieved as she was about
the Dark Lord’s death, she knew her and Britain’s troubles hadn’t ended. That
Potter had killed the Dark Lord with the help of the Muggleborn Resistance and
the remnants of Dumbledore’s Order made things worse.
the Dark Lord’s death, she knew her and Britain’s troubles hadn’t ended. That
Potter had killed the Dark Lord with the help of the Muggleborn Resistance and
the remnants of Dumbledore’s Order made things worse.
If only she had dared to give the order to arrest the lot of them… but Amelia
was aware that the majority of her Aurors and Hit-Wizards might not have
obeyed, being far too inexperienced to understand the situation. They’d only
see a hero who had taken down the Dark Lord, and not the danger Potter
represented.
was aware that the majority of her Aurors and Hit-Wizards might not have
obeyed, being far too inexperienced to understand the situation. They’d only
see a hero who had taken down the Dark Lord, and not the danger Potter
represented.
A danger of which Amelia was all too aware, even more so after she had seen
the reaction of the public to the spreading news.
the reaction of the public to the spreading news.
Her secretary — that one was reliable, at least, and hadn’t left her post like
so many other Ministry employees — informed her that Pius had arrived. The
Head of the DMLE lost his own smile as soon as the door closed behind him.
so many other Ministry employees — informed her that Pius had arrived. The
Head of the DMLE lost his own smile as soon as the door closed behind him.
“What’s the status of Diagon Alley?” Amelia asked, seating herself behind her
desk.
desk.
“The affected areas are still cordoned off while we wait for the Unspeakables
to finish investigating the lingering smoke,” he answered, taking a seat of
his own. “But the fires are under control. Dawlish is handling the situation.”
to finish investigating the lingering smoke,” he answered, taking a seat of
his own. “But the fires are under control. Dawlish is handling the situation.”
Amelia knew better than to ask for an estimate of how long they’d have to
carry on waiting. The Unspeakables didn’t care about anything but their own
interests. And Dawlish could handle the rest. “How’s the population taking
that?”
carry on waiting. The Unspeakables didn’t care about anything but their own
interests. And Dawlish could handle the rest. “How’s the population taking
that?”
Pius snorted softly. “They seem too busy celebrating the Dark Lord’s demise to
care.” Shrugging, he added: “Those who lost their homes might feel
differently, but I didn’t see any of them making a scene.”
care.” Shrugging, he added: “Those who lost their homes might feel
differently, but I didn’t see any of them making a scene.”
They might have been killed in the fighting, Amelia knew. Or simply have been
caught up in the celebrations as well. They were not a pressing problem either
way. “What about Potter, Black and Granger?”
caught up in the celebrations as well. They were not a pressing problem either
way. “What about Potter, Black and Granger?”
“They have left the area, presumably to treat their wounds,” Pius said, with a
faint smile. “Although none of them have been seen in St Mungo’s according to
my information.”
faint smile. “Although none of them have been seen in St Mungo’s according to
my information.”
“Not even Granger’s lover?” That wizard had been seriously hurt. Probably
fatally.
fatally.
He shook his head. “It’s possible that their wounded were moved to France.
With the Dark Lord dead, there would be no need any more for the Duc to
maintain the fiction that this was an unsanctioned private affair by the
Delacours.”
With the Dark Lord dead, there would be no need any more for the Duc to
maintain the fiction that this was an unsanctioned private affair by the
Delacours.”
Amelia nodded. “If the muggleborns have access to a hospital with the
capability to handle dark curses then they are far more self-reliant than we
assumed.” Which would affect politics in a way Amelia didn’t like.
capability to handle dark curses then they are far more self-reliant than we
assumed.” Which would affect politics in a way Amelia didn’t like.
“Since they went to war I think they either have such support, or don’t care
about it,” Pius said. “Although I doubt that the Duc d’Orléans would support
the muggleborns. The influence he’d gain in Britain’s politics would not be
worth the trouble it could cause in his own country.”
about it,” Pius said. “Although I doubt that the Duc d’Orléans would support
the muggleborns. The influence he’d gain in Britain’s politics would not be
worth the trouble it could cause in his own country.”
She nodded. “While it’s not impossible that he would want to gain some
concessions from us in exchange for dropping his support for the muggleborns,
I do agree that it seems unlikely.” But you couldn’t trust the French; not
with Britain so weakened. With Dumbledore and the Dark Lord dead, Britain had
lost a lot of its power and prestige. “But no matter where they are, if they
are currently getting treatment, it means we have an opportunity here.” The
Weasleys would be occupied with their wounded as well, at least temporarily
removing another thorn in her side.
concessions from us in exchange for dropping his support for the muggleborns,
I do agree that it seems unlikely.” But you couldn’t trust the French; not
with Britain so weakened. With Dumbledore and the Dark Lord dead, Britain had
lost a lot of its power and prestige. “But no matter where they are, if they
are currently getting treatment, it means we have an opportunity here.” The
Weasleys would be occupied with their wounded as well, at least temporarily
removing another thorn in her side.
Pius nodded. “That is true. What are you planning?”
He was playing it safe, as expected. “We need to control how the country will
be informed about the battle.”
be informed about the battle.”
“News of the Boy-Who-Lived defeating the Dark Lord has already spread,” Pius
pointed out.
pointed out.
“Yes,” Amelia admitted. They’d never be able to suppress that — after
Dumbledore’s death, people had put their hope in the Boy-Who-Lived. “But we
can use that. The more people focus on him, the less they care about his
friends. And we can emphasise the Aurors and Hit-Wizards who fought and died
today.” The Daily Prophet knew to listen to the Ministry.
Dumbledore’s death, people had put their hope in the Boy-Who-Lived. “But we
can use that. The more people focus on him, the less they care about his
friends. And we can emphasise the Aurors and Hit-Wizards who fought and died
today.” The Daily Prophet knew to listen to the Ministry.
Pius’s smile widened. “And later, we can point out, subtly of course, that
Dumbledore had to save Potter from Voldemort just two weeks ago.”
Dumbledore had to save Potter from Voldemort just two weeks ago.”
She nodded. Even Dawlish had noticed that. “They said themselves that
Dumbledore had planned this.” And people still associated Dumbledore with the
Ministry; few knew just how radical the man had actually been. Revealing the
Muggleborn Resistance as the dangerous criminals they were would be easy as
well, once Potter’s influence had lessened. They just had to point at the
innocent victims of their attacks. And that would also affect Arthur Weasley
and Sirius Black, thanks to their close ties to Granger.
Dumbledore had planned this.” And people still associated Dumbledore with the
Ministry; few knew just how radical the man had actually been. Revealing the
Muggleborn Resistance as the dangerous criminals they were would be easy as
well, once Potter’s influence had lessened. They just had to point at the
innocent victims of their attacks. And that would also affect Arthur Weasley
and Sirius Black, thanks to their close ties to Granger.
“However, we might need the reputation of the Boy-Who-Lived, who has now twice
defeated the Dark Lord, to keep other countries from getting ideas,” Pius cut
in.
defeated the Dark Lord, to keep other countries from getting ideas,” Pius cut
in.
Amelia shook her head. “The muggleborns know that no other country would
support them. They’d have to oppose international pressure.” The only
countries — and Amelia was using the term quite loosely here — who cared for
muggleborns were some of the warring enclaves in the New World. And those
mattered about as much as muggle countries.
support them. They’d have to oppose international pressure.” The only
countries — and Amelia was using the term quite loosely here — who cared for
muggleborns were some of the warring enclaves in the New World. And those
mattered about as much as muggle countries.
“That is true. But can we trust the muggleborns to realise that? Granger is
still a student, after all.”
still a student, after all.”
“She’s quite smart and it’s obvious that Black’s been supporting her.” And
influencing the girl. “He’d tell her.”
influencing the girl. “He’d tell her.”
“We still might need to grant them some concessions, to present the ICW with a
unified front,” Pius said.
unified front,” Pius said.
Amelia pressed her lips together. Grant those criminals anything? After they
had used the dire straits the country had been in to extort a pardon for their
crimes from her? “If needed we can throw them some bone. Maybe another
pardon.”
had used the dire straits the country had been in to extort a pardon for their
crimes from her? “If needed we can throw them some bone. Maybe another
pardon.”
Pius inclined his head, but didn’t comment.
“What about the flying carpets with the muggles the Dark Lord had kidnapped?”
Amelia asked. She hated loose ends.
Amelia asked. She hated loose ends.
“The Obliviators told me that they have arranged a cover story for the
muggles. A ‘bus accident’, or so I was told.” Pius shrugged. “There weren’t
that many survivors.”
muggles. A ‘bus accident’, or so I was told.” Pius shrugged. “There weren’t
that many survivors.”
“Have them checked for curses before releasing them. I don’t want any other
‘surprises’ like the Withering Curse,” Amelia said.
‘surprises’ like the Withering Curse,” Amelia said.
“Yes, Minister.”
When Pius had left her office, Amelia called her secretary. “Inform the
Prophet that the Ministry is releasing information about the battle in Diagon
Alley.”
Prophet that the Ministry is releasing information about the battle in Diagon
Alley.”
---
**London, London Bridge Hospital, February 2nd, 1997**
Ron Weasley woke up, looked around, and started to panic — he was in an
unfamiliar room. Not St Mungo’s, nor the Hogwarts infirmary. And his wand was
missing! And his side… he glanced down, craning his neck. His wound was
bandaged. And it didn’t hurt that much. Someone had healed him, then. Mostly,
at least.
unfamiliar room. Not St Mungo’s, nor the Hogwarts infirmary. And his wand was
missing! And his side… he glanced down, craning his neck. His wound was
bandaged. And it didn’t hurt that much. Someone had healed him, then. Mostly,
at least.
Then he realised that he was in a muggle hospital. The telly hanging on the
wall opposite his bed was a dead giveaway. He should have realised that
sooner. And his throat hurt, it felt parched. For a moment, he imagined his
neck having been struck by the withering curse, and shuddered.
wall opposite his bed was a dead giveaway. He should have realised that
sooner. And his throat hurt, it felt parched. For a moment, he imagined his
neck having been struck by the withering curse, and shuddered.
He tried to call for a nurse or Healer, but his throat didn’t want to
cooperate. While he was looking for a rope to pull or something, the door
opened.
cooperate. While he was looking for a rope to pull or something, the door
opened.
“Hey!”
There she was. Hermione. He felt better at once. Warm. Safe. He smiled.
“Hello,” he managed to say, mostly at least. She understood him, of course.
She was smart.
“Hello,” he managed to say, mostly at least. She understood him, of course.
She was smart.
She sat down on his bed, smiling at him. “I heard you wake up. I left a
spell.” She picked up a glass from the table next to the bed. “Here, drink!”
spell.” She picked up a glass from the table next to the bed. “Here, drink!”
She must have been right outside. Wherever that was. The water helped a lot.
He managed to speak mostly normally after a few tries. “What happened? Where
are we?”
He managed to speak mostly normally after a few tries. “What happened? Where
are we?”
“We’re in London Bridge Hospital. A private muggle hospital,” she said,
refilling the glass from a bottle he had missed until then. “The wound was
resistant to magic.”
refilling the glass from a bottle he had missed until then. “The wound was
resistant to magic.”
“I noticed,” he said, snorting, then winced at the pain that caused.
“Ron!” She had her wand out at once, running it over his body.
“I’m alright,” he said. He thought so, at least. But he had heard that some
curses, you felt fine until you died. But he had been in too much pain for
such a curse, he thought. “What happened? Did we… did Harry…?”
curses, you felt fine until you died. But he had been in too much pain for
such a curse, he thought. “What happened? Did we… did Harry…?”
“Voldemort’s dead. Harry did it,” Hermione said.
He closed his eyes, sighing. The Dark Lord was dead. They had won the war.
Then he jerked his head around, staring at her. “And Harry? And the others?”
Then he jerked his head around, staring at her. “And Harry? And the others?”
“He’s fine,” Hermione said, then, noticing his expression, added: “Really
fine.”
fine.”
He chuckled, trying not to react to the pain that caused.
“Fred and George are fine as well,” she continued. ‘Bit ‘banged up’, as they
put it, but they’re out and about. Bill and Fleur made it too. Your parents
and Percy came through unscathed, as far as I know — they were looking for you
in the ruins of the shop, after getting the twins out, so they missed us.
Sirius was hurt when his broom crashed, but he survived, as did most of the
Resistance. Tonks was cursed, and is currently in St Mungo’s.’ Her smile
vanished. “Moody died, though, as did Jeremy. Both were killed by Voldemort.”
put it, but they’re out and about. Bill and Fleur made it too. Your parents
and Percy came through unscathed, as far as I know — they were looking for you
in the ruins of the shop, after getting the twins out, so they missed us.
Sirius was hurt when his broom crashed, but he survived, as did most of the
Resistance. Tonks was cursed, and is currently in St Mungo’s.’ Her smile
vanished. “Moody died, though, as did Jeremy. Both were killed by Voldemort.”
Ron closed his eyes, relieved. His brothers were fine! But Moody was dead… he
wouldn’t have thought that possible. The old Auror had seemed so tough, and
always one step ahead of them in training… of course, he had been facing
Voldemort. Ron himself had only survived through luck, and muggle Healers,
apparently. “Jeremy?” Who did he know with that name?
wouldn’t have thought that possible. The old Auror had seemed so tough, and
always one step ahead of them in training… of course, he had been facing
Voldemort. Ron himself had only survived through luck, and muggle Healers,
apparently. “Jeremy?” Who did he know with that name?
“Former Hit-Wizard. A few years older than us.” Hermione smiled thinly.
“Ah.” He tried to keep his relief that it had been no one he had known out of
his voice. He felt guilty too, for caring more about his brothers’ survival
than the man’s death.
his voice. He felt guilty too, for caring more about his brothers’ survival
than the man’s death.
“The surviving muggle children the Death Eaters had used as human shields were
taken to St Mungo’s. But too many of them died.”
taken to St Mungo’s. But too many of them died.”
He could see that she was biting her lower lip and didn’t pry further. He
reached out to pat her hand, and she gripped his.
reached out to pat her hand, and she gripped his.
“Anyway,” Hermione went on after a moment. “Your wound resisted healing
spells. Harry managed to slow down the bleeding, but that was all he could do.
So, we took you to a muggle hospital, where they treated your wound, before we
had you transferred here.”
spells. Harry managed to slow down the bleeding, but that was all he could do.
So, we took you to a muggle hospital, where they treated your wound, before we
had you transferred here.”
“Did they sew me up?” Ron had heard his dad talk about that, once. He shivered
— to think that he had threads inside him, like a ragdoll…
— to think that he had threads inside him, like a ragdoll…
“It’s a bit more complicated, but effectively, yes.”
He stared at the bandages hiding the wound. He had stitches there!
“They’ll come out soon enough,” Hermione said.
He looked at her — she was frowning at him, but with an amused air. “Is my
family here?”
family here?”
Now she winced, and Ron gasped. Hadn’t she said that they were fine? Had
something happened after the battle? She would have mentioned that earlier,
wouldn’t she?
something happened after the battle? She would have mentioned that earlier,
wouldn’t she?
“They’re fine, but…” She sighed. “Your parents were asked to leave the
hospital. They made a scene when they weren’t allowed to see you right away.”
hospital. They made a scene when they weren’t allowed to see you right away.”
“Oh.” He could imagine that. Mum would have been going spare at the thought of
him in that state, and depending on muggle Healers. And Dad… he’d have asked
all sorts of questions, both to distract himself and out of open curiosity.
him in that state, and depending on muggle Healers. And Dad… he’d have asked
all sorts of questions, both to distract himself and out of open curiosity.
“Yes.” Hermione shrugged. “They’ll be here as soon as they hear you’re awake,
though. The muggle doctors thought it was just the shock of you having been
wounded so seriously.”
though. The muggle doctors thought it was just the shock of you having been
wounded so seriously.”
“Good.” The last thing his family needed was the Obliviators on their case
right when the war was over. ‘How long do I have to stay here?’ Come to think
of it… “How long have I been here already?”
right when the war was over. ‘How long do I have to stay here?’ Come to think
of it… “How long have I been here already?”
“You’ve been unconscious for a day.” She sighed. “You’ll be here for at least
a week — it depends on how well the wound is healing.”
a week — it depends on how well the wound is healing.”
“A week.” He nodded slowly. Could have been worse.
Much worse.
---
Harry Potter arrived at London Bridge Hospital ten minutes after he had heard
from Hermione that Ron had woken up. One minute to excuse himself from Sirius
and nine minutes to reach the hospital from the closest Apparition spot he was
familiar with. It took five minutes to reach his friend’s room.
from Hermione that Ron had woken up. One minute to excuse himself from Sirius
and nine minutes to reach the hospital from the closest Apparition spot he was
familiar with. It took five minutes to reach his friend’s room.
He knocked. After a second, he heard a muffled “Come in!” and opened the door.
Ron was lying in the bed, as expected, and Hermione was sitting at his side.
Both had their wands ready, but stashed them when they recognised him. Moody
would have told them off for not suspecting Polyjuice, he thought. But Moody
was dead.
Ron was lying in the bed, as expected, and Hermione was sitting at his side.
Both had their wands ready, but stashed them when they recognised him. Moody
would have told them off for not suspecting Polyjuice, he thought. But Moody
was dead.
“Hi,” Harry said, entering.
“Our hero!” Ron said, chuckling, then wincing.
Hermione frowned at Ron, and Harry saw her draw and flick her wand, aimed at
Ron.
Ron.
Ron had noticed it as well. “I’m fine!” he said.
“You have a cut in your side eight inches long,” Hermione retorted. “With
stitches,” she added with a fake smile.
stitches,” she added with a fake smile.
Ron shuddered.
Harry chuckled. “So, how is he?” he asked, looking at Hermione.
“The wound seems to be healing as expected. Without magic, that is,” she said,
glancing at Ron, who had been about to say something, or so it looked, but
then closed his mouth without a word. “It appears that you managed to weaken
the curse so that natural healing is now possible. Fortunately, we could
remove the splinters under his skin with magic. That would have been a bit
difficult to explain.”
glancing at Ron, who had been about to say something, or so it looked, but
then closed his mouth without a word. “It appears that you managed to weaken
the curse so that natural healing is now possible. Fortunately, we could
remove the splinters under his skin with magic. That would have been a bit
difficult to explain.”
“What was it, anyway? It wasn’t Sectumsempra.” Harry had been taught the
counter-curse to that spell, as had, he presumed, all of the Order thanks to
Snape.
counter-curse to that spell, as had, he presumed, all of the Order thanks to
Snape.
“I don’t know.” Hermione frowned. “The wound would have to be investigated
thoroughly to find out what spell caused it, and that would interfere with the
recovery.”
thoroughly to find out what spell caused it, and that would interfere with the
recovery.”
And, Harry added to himself, it might reveal what wand he had been using.
“I’d rather not keep bleeding so the Unspeakables can do their research,” Ron
said. “Staying in bed is only fun if you’re not wounded.”
said. “Staying in bed is only fun if you’re not wounded.”
Hermione actually blushed, Harry noticed with some surprise, and more than a
bit of jealousy. Had they gone that far, yet? He didn’t really want to know.
bit of jealousy. Had they gone that far, yet? He didn’t really want to know.
“So, what’s been going on while I was out?” Ron asked. ‘Hermione told me who
died,’ he added, “but not much else yet. How’s Sirius?”
died,’ he added, “but not much else yet. How’s Sirius?”
“Well… Sirius is resting. He had to take Skele-Gro.” Harry winced, remembering
just how painful that potion was. ‘Wizarding Britain is celebrating,’ he
continued. “Like in 1981. Fireworks, and all. I bet the Obliviators are
getting overworked.” He was a bit bitter about the fact that the vast majority
of those celebrating hadn’t done anything to fight Voldemort, and many of
those who had couldn’t celebrate, being dead or in a magical sleep.
just how painful that potion was. ‘Wizarding Britain is celebrating,’ he
continued. “Like in 1981. Fireworks, and all. I bet the Obliviators are
getting overworked.” He was a bit bitter about the fact that the vast majority
of those celebrating hadn’t done anything to fight Voldemort, and many of
those who had couldn’t celebrate, being dead or in a magical sleep.
“You don’t sound like you are celebrating,” Ron said, glancing from Harry to
Hermione.
Hermione.
“With you in surgery?” Harry snorted. And then there were the dead. He was
pretty sure that Moody would have wanted them to celebrate, but… if he closed
his eyes he still saw the battle, scenes mixing and overlapping. Voldemort
turning to dust, Ron bleeding, the dead stumbling around, Sirius crashing,
corpses of children strewn about…
pretty sure that Moody would have wanted them to celebrate, but… if he closed
his eyes he still saw the battle, scenes mixing and overlapping. Voldemort
turning to dust, Ron bleeding, the dead stumbling around, Sirius crashing,
corpses of children strewn about…
Ron grumbled something Harry didn’t catch. Hermione, who was sitting next to
their friend, frowned. “We’ve been busy getting the word out to the
muggleborns. John has set up a recording for the Resistance Radio, and we’ve
mailed to all our contacts. But it’ll take some time for everyone to hear the
news. And even longer for them to believe it.” She sighed. “We really need
them to return quickly.”
their friend, frowned. “We’ve been busy getting the word out to the
muggleborns. John has set up a recording for the Resistance Radio, and we’ve
mailed to all our contacts. But it’ll take some time for everyone to hear the
news. And even longer for them to believe it.” She sighed. “We really need
them to return quickly.”
Ron blinked. “What’s wrong?”
Harry pulled out the Daily Prophet and showed it to Ron. “According to the
Prophet, I killed Voldemort by myself. With the help of the brave Aurors and
Hit-Wizards killed in Diagon Alley.” Not that they were using the Dark Lord’s
name. Not even now. “The Order and the Resistance are barely mentioned.”
Prophet, I killed Voldemort by myself. With the help of the brave Aurors and
Hit-Wizards killed in Diagon Alley.” Not that they were using the Dark Lord’s
name. Not even now. “The Order and the Resistance are barely mentioned.”
“It’s a blatant attempt to marginalise the Resistance and the Order,” Hermione
said. “But you’re no toddler any more, nor will you vanish from Wizarding
Britain for a decade.”
said. “But you’re no toddler any more, nor will you vanish from Wizarding
Britain for a decade.”
Harry shook his head. He didn’t like being treated like this, but vanishing
from Wizarding would mean letting his friends down. And that he’d never do.
from Wizarding would mean letting his friends down. And that he’d never do.
Ron muttered a curse while he read the front page. Then he looked up. “They’re
praising you, though. They’re almost calling you a second Dumbledore.”
praising you, though. They’re almost calling you a second Dumbledore.”
“For now,” Harry said. Fourth year had taught him how quickly that could
change. “There are also several articles about how the war’s over, and things
will go back to normal.”
change. “There are also several articles about how the war’s over, and things
will go back to normal.”
“Oh.” Ron’s expression told Harry that even on pain medication, he hadn’t
forgotten about their talks.
forgotten about their talks.
“It’s 1981 again. At least if Bones has her way,” Hermione said. “Celebrate,
and then forget, and do business as usual. Which is why we need the
muggleborns to return to Wizarding Britain and make themselves heard. The
Ministry needs to realise that they can’t simply go back to the status quo
ante.”
and then forget, and do business as usual. Which is why we need the
muggleborns to return to Wizarding Britain and make themselves heard. The
Ministry needs to realise that they can’t simply go back to the status quo
ante.”
“The what?”
Harry was glad Ron had asked the question before he had to.
“The state things were before the war,” Hermione explained. “I’ve been reading
about peace treaties lately. Not that it is entirely applicable in our
situation, of course. We’ve never really declared war on the Ministry.”
about peace treaties lately. Not that it is entirely applicable in our
situation, of course. We’ve never really declared war on the Ministry.”
“They certainly hunted you,” Harry said. He was still mad at Tonks for that.
“Which is part of the problem. The Ministry wants to consider us as pardoned
criminals, not as a legitimate faction in a civil war.” Hermione was clenching
her teeth, Harry could tell.
criminals, not as a legitimate faction in a civil war.” Hermione was clenching
her teeth, Harry could tell.
“Sirius will support you in the Wizengamot,” Harry said. Once his godfather
was back on his feet, at least.
was back on his feet, at least.
“That will help, but we need more support. We need to show the Ministry that
they can’t ignore the muggleborns, not any more,” Hermione said. She didn’t
have to say that there would be another war if the Ministry tried — Harry knew
that.
they can’t ignore the muggleborns, not any more,” Hermione said. She didn’t
have to say that there would be another war if the Ministry tried — Harry knew
that.
“What happened to Voldemort, exactly?” Ron asked, looking at him.
“What Dumbledore planned,” Harry answered, after a moment’s hesitation. He
didn’t want to talk about that fight in their minds. Not even to his friends.
“We met, we fought, I won.”
didn’t want to talk about that fight in their minds. Not even to his friends.
“We met, we fought, I won.”
To his surprise, Hermione snorted in response to that report, instead of
demanding more details. He went on: “I’m feeling well, though, with this
gone.” He tapped his scar. It was if a weight that he had carried all his life
had vanished.
demanding more details. He went on: “I’m feeling well, though, with this
gone.” He tapped his scar. It was if a weight that he had carried all his life
had vanished.
Then the door was opened without knocking. Harry had cast a shield and stepped
in front of Ron, next to Hermione, before he recognised who had arrived. Ron’s
family. Who had frozen at the sight of three wands aimed at them.
in front of Ron, next to Hermione, before he recognised who had arrived. Ron’s
family. Who had frozen at the sight of three wands aimed at them.
“I bet Moody’s laughing right now in the afterlife,” Ron muttered behind him.
---
**London, East End, February 2nd, 1997**
Hermione Granger entered the Resistance’s safe house, and for a moment, she
felt as if she had come home. The sights and smells and even sounds had become
familiar over the last few months. Even comforting. And yet, she added,
looking at the stairs leading up to far too many empty rooms, it was also
saddening.
felt as if she had come home. The sights and smells and even sounds had become
familiar over the last few months. Even comforting. And yet, she added,
looking at the stairs leading up to far too many empty rooms, it was also
saddening.
“How’s Ron?”
Sally-Anne was peeking out of the kitchen, Hermione noticed. She looked quite
apprehensive.
apprehensive.
“He’ll live. The wound’s healing naturally,” Hermione said, stepping into the
kitchen herself. She noticed that Sally-Anne was brewing tea. Quite cliched,
but she liked to take care of her friends, so Hermione wouldn’t say anything.
“But he loathes the stitches. His dad was fascinated, though. He wanted to
remove the bandages to take a look, even.” And that had almost led to the
Weasleys getting thrown out of the hospital again. At that rate, Sirius would
have to make a donation to the hospital to smooth things over. Or, she added
to herself, use a few spells.2q3
kitchen herself. She noticed that Sally-Anne was brewing tea. Quite cliched,
but she liked to take care of her friends, so Hermione wouldn’t say anything.
“But he loathes the stitches. His dad was fascinated, though. He wanted to
remove the bandages to take a look, even.” And that had almost led to the
Weasleys getting thrown out of the hospital again. At that rate, Sirius would
have to make a donation to the hospital to smooth things over. Or, she added
to herself, use a few spells.2q3
Her friend shook her head and sighed.
“He’ll have to stay there for about a week,” Hermione went on. Which was
better than she had feared, but even after getting released, Ron wouldn’t be
able to do anything strenuous for a while. But he was alive, and that was all
that counted!
better than she had feared, but even after getting released, Ron wouldn’t be
able to do anything strenuous for a while. But he was alive, and that was all
that counted!
“Are you going to play nurse for him?” Sally-Anne’s tone was teasing, but she
didn’t seem to be happy. There was a hint of concern in her face.
didn’t seem to be happy. There was a hint of concern in her face.
Hermione frowned. Had something happened to their wounded? “How’s Louise?”
“She’s asleep. She was awake for a bit earlier today, and I filled her in
about what had happened after she was hurt. She’ll be fine once she has
rested. But the news…” Sally-Anne shook her head. “Have you read the Daily
Prophet? Seamus wanted to go and blow up their office. We managed to get him
to calm down.”
about what had happened after she was hurt. She’ll be fine once she has
rested. But the news…” Sally-Anne shook her head. “Have you read the Daily
Prophet? Seamus wanted to go and blow up their office. We managed to get him
to calm down.”
Hermione hoped that he hadn’t been serious. But she could understand his
reaction — she had been livid herself when she had read the articles.
Voldemort hadn’t been dead for a day, and the Ministry was already making a
move. Though she had to admit that they were smart to do this while Sirius was
recovering. She sighed. “We’ll have to counter that. Is John here?”
reaction — she had been livid herself when she had read the articles.
Voldemort hadn’t been dead for a day, and the Ministry was already making a
move. Though she had to admit that they were smart to do this while Sirius was
recovering. She sighed. “We’ll have to counter that. Is John here?”
“Yes. Everyone’s in the living room.” Sally-Anne sighed. “I know it wasn’t
likely, but… I thought with the Dark Lord dead, we’d have won. That it was
over. So many of us died. And now…” She didn’t quite sob, but her sigh came
close.
likely, but… I thought with the Dark Lord dead, we’d have won. That it was
over. So many of us died. And now…” She didn’t quite sob, but her sigh came
close.
Hermione reached out to pat her on the shoulder. “We’ll win. Trust me.” She
smiled when her friend slowly nodded.
smiled when her friend slowly nodded.
But as Hermione went upstairs to her room to drop off her coat before heading
to the living room, she wished she was as confident as she had sounded.
to the living room, she wished she was as confident as she had sounded.
By the time she reached the living room, Sally-Anne had joined the rest of the
Resistance there.
Resistance there.
“Hermione!” Seamus jumped up from the couch. “Have you read the Prophet?” He
waved a crumpled issue around.
waved a crumpled issue around.
“Yes, I have.”
“And what are we going to do about it?”
She looked around. Justin looked grim, but then smiled at Sally-Anne. Tania
looked as angry as Seamus, but remained seated on the couch. John was
frowning, a notepad in front of him. And Louise was still recovering. They had
lost half their numbers, Hermione thought, in this war.
looked as angry as Seamus, but remained seated on the couch. John was
frowning, a notepad in front of him. And Louise was still recovering. They had
lost half their numbers, Hermione thought, in this war.
“We’ll tell the truth in our radio broadcast — and we’ll drop leaflets in
Diagon Alley again.” She looked at John. “We’ll have to address not just
muggleborns, but everyone — including the poorer purebloods. The more support
we have, the sooner the Ministry will give in.”
Diagon Alley again.” She looked at John. “We’ll have to address not just
muggleborns, but everyone — including the poorer purebloods. The more support
we have, the sooner the Ministry will give in.”
“Do you really think they’ll just surrender?” Seamus scoffed. “The purebloods
won’t give up their power.”
won’t give up their power.”
“The Old Families are the ones controlling the Wizengamot, and through it, the
Ministry. But they are a tiny minority. We’ll have to persuade the muggleborns
to return, and the half-bloods and as many of the purebloods as we can to
support us.” Hermione said. “If we manage that, then we can force the Ministry
to reform, and change the Wizengamot into an elected parliament.”
Ministry. But they are a tiny minority. We’ll have to persuade the muggleborns
to return, and the half-bloods and as many of the purebloods as we can to
support us.” Hermione said. “If we manage that, then we can force the Ministry
to reform, and change the Wizengamot into an elected parliament.”
“We can demand trials for those who supported the Death Eaters and abused
their power during the war. That will weaken the Ministry and the Wizengamot
further,” John said.
their power during the war. That will weaken the Ministry and the Wizengamot
further,” John said.
“Unless the Wizengamot acquits them. They did so in 1981, after all.” Hermione
didn’t trust the Wizengamot’s justice.
didn’t trust the Wizengamot’s justice.
“If they do that…” Seamus clenched his teeth.
“Would they dare? There’d be riots in Diagon Alley,” Tania said.
Hermione couldn’t tell if either of the two was looking forward to such a
crisis. She shrugged. “We’ll need to know how the Wizengamot stands on such
trials, before we ask for them.”
crisis. She shrugged. “We’ll need to know how the Wizengamot stands on such
trials, before we ask for them.”
“We can deal with the worst criminals ourselves,” Seamus said.
“The Ministry knows that. But they might just be waiting for a pretext to move
against us. And they’ll blame us for any such action, whether we were involved
or not.” Hermione didn’t want to deal with another Allan. “We need to focus on
getting support from the population, not start a war.”
against us. And they’ll blame us for any such action, whether we were involved
or not.” Hermione didn’t want to deal with another Allan. “We need to focus on
getting support from the population, not start a war.”
“But even if we do that, the Wizengamot might decide to fight rather than
surrender their power,” Justin said.
surrender their power,” Justin said.
“If they wish to die rather than enact reforms we’ll oblige them,” Hermione
said. They had fought a war against a far stronger foe already; they wouldn’t
give up now.
said. They had fought a war against a far stronger foe already; they wouldn’t
give up now.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 2nd, 1997**
Sirius Black was suffering. It wasn’t just the pain from the Skele-Gro he had
had to take, though that certainly played a big part. Skele-Gro made you feel
as if you had hundreds of splinters in your limbs and you couldn’t get them
out! The Torture Curse was said to be worse, but Merlin’s Balls, he was
certain the two were related, somehow — you couldn’t use magic to deal with
the pain in either case. And to think Harry had suffered through this in his
second year!
had to take, though that certainly played a big part. Skele-Gro made you feel
as if you had hundreds of splinters in your limbs and you couldn’t get them
out! The Torture Curse was said to be worse, but Merlin’s Balls, he was
certain the two were related, somehow — you couldn’t use magic to deal with
the pain in either case. And to think Harry had suffered through this in his
second year!
But worse than the pain was the knowledge that he had let his godson down.
While he was being treated for his wounds, laid up, the Ministry had moved.
Who’d have thought stubborn, rigid — and frigid — Bones would be as cunning as
a Slytherin? He glared at the Daily Prophet on the floor next to his bed. The
figures in the picture of an Auror group glared back at him, bunched together
in the corner of the picture he hadn’t burned.
While he was being treated for his wounds, laid up, the Ministry had moved.
Who’d have thought stubborn, rigid — and frigid — Bones would be as cunning as
a Slytherin? He glared at the Daily Prophet on the floor next to his bed. The
figures in the picture of an Auror group glared back at him, bunched together
in the corner of the picture he hadn’t burned.
A pack of lies, spread on the orders of the Ministry to fool the people and
further the Minister’s agenda — and the Wizengamot’s, of course. That cesspit
of bigots and scum! He hissed with anger and frustration, hitting the mattress
he was lying on with his fist. If not for his wounds — more extensive than he
had thought — he could have done something. But now half of Britain would
already have heard and believed that Harry and the Ministry had saved them
all.
further the Minister’s agenda — and the Wizengamot’s, of course. That cesspit
of bigots and scum! He hissed with anger and frustration, hitting the mattress
he was lying on with his fist. If not for his wounds — more extensive than he
had thought — he could have done something. But now half of Britain would
already have heard and believed that Harry and the Ministry had saved them
all.
He took a deep breath. Harry had saved them all. He had destroyed the Dark
Lord’s mind. And his soul, or so Sirius suspected. Albus hadn’t gone into much
detail past the necessity of defeating Voldemort in their minds, but Sirius
had read up on the topic in his family’s library. He did not know for sure,
though — and he’d certainly never tell Harry his suspicions. That sort of
burden no one should have to bear.
Lord’s mind. And his soul, or so Sirius suspected. Albus hadn’t gone into much
detail past the necessity of defeating Voldemort in their minds, but Sirius
had read up on the topic in his family’s library. He did not know for sure,
though — and he’d certainly never tell Harry his suspicions. That sort of
burden no one should have to bear.
Sirius sighed. He felt so useless, stuck in his bed while the cowards who had
hidden during the war were crawling out of their holes, eager to take the
reins of the country. Amos had informed him that the only reason they hadn’t
managed to organise an emergency session of the Wizengamot was that the
majority of them had not trusted the news enough to leave their safe houses
right away.
hidden during the war were crawling out of their holes, eager to take the
reins of the country. Amos had informed him that the only reason they hadn’t
managed to organise an emergency session of the Wizengamot was that the
majority of them had not trusted the news enough to leave their safe houses
right away.
But they’d gather tomorrow, and Sirius already knew what would be on the
agenda: They’d try to save as many of their family members who had been
involved with Voldemort as they could. He snorted. He would be able to move
again tomorrow.
agenda: They’d try to save as many of their family members who had been
involved with Voldemort as they could. He snorted. He would be able to move
again tomorrow.
The door opened and Vivienne entered, smiling at him. Next to her floated a
tray with food. She left it hovering next to his bed, then bent down to kiss
him. For a moment, he forgot all about his troubles and pain.
tray with food. She left it hovering next to his bed, then bent down to kiss
him. For a moment, he forgot all about his troubles and pain.
“’ow are you doing?” she asked when they broke off.
“I’m feeling better now.” He shot her a smile. “How is your family doing?”
Vivienne hadn’t been hurt much, but her family hadn’t been as lucky. The
Blacks, on the other hand, had fared better — Nymphadora was expected to make
a full recovery, even though she was still at St Mungo’s so the Healers could
keep an eye on her. Andromeda suspected that they were keeping her daughter
for a few days longer just to be able to study her body, but after the
Withering Curse, no one could blame them for being cautious.
Vivienne hadn’t been hurt much, but her family hadn’t been as lucky. The
Blacks, on the other hand, had fared better — Nymphadora was expected to make
a full recovery, even though she was still at St Mungo’s so the Healers could
keep an eye on her. Andromeda suspected that they were keeping her daughter
for a few days longer just to be able to study her body, but after the
Withering Curse, no one could blame them for being cautious.
She smiled, then sighed. “They’ve already returned to France.” Those who had
survived.
survived.
“All of them?” He was surprised. That… it wasn’t quite rude, but he would have
expected the French to stay and celebrate a bit longer. And wait until he was
well enough to join in — he was their host, after all.
expected the French to stay and celebrate a bit longer. And wait until he was
well enough to join in — he was their host, after all.
“The Duc sent a message, calling them back to the Court.” Onour has been
satisfied, and blood has been avenged’.”
satisfied, and blood has been avenged’.”
“Ah.” That explained it. The Duc d’Orléans had quite a bit more power than the
British Minister for Magic — and he wasn’t elected by a parliament. “You
stayed, though.”
British Minister for Magic — and he wasn’t elected by a parliament. “You
stayed, though.”
“Of course.” She ran a hand over his cheek. “I’m not a Delacour, but a
d’Aigle. I’m not a member of the Court.”
d’Aigle. I’m not a member of the Court.”
Sirius wanted to ask if she would have stayed anyway, but didn’t. Some things
you did not ask. Not at the current stage of their relationship. Not when the
reason she had come to Britain was no more. So he simply nodded. “Does that
mean that the Duc will no longer support French involvement in Britain’s
affairs?”
you did not ask. Not at the current stage of their relationship. Not when the
reason she had come to Britain was no more. So he simply nodded. “Does that
mean that the Duc will no longer support French involvement in Britain’s
affairs?”
“I think so. Though ’e might be concerned about the muggleborns.”
“Oh?” The pain was just a dull ache now. Focusing on talking helped.
Vivienne sighed again. She smiled, but he could see that it was forced. “The
Court of Magical France has long been concerned about muggleborns. They fear
that they might try to emulate the French muggles, and rebel.”
Court of Magical France has long been concerned about muggleborns. They fear
that they might try to emulate the French muggles, and rebel.”
Sirius nodded. “And the Duc’s concerned about the British muggleborns.”
“Yes.” Vivienne nodded. “’Onour demanded that we took revenge for the attack
on us, and the Duc wouldn’t ’ave denied us that. But now… ’E is the Duc, but
some things even our ruler cannot do, or seem to support, without inviting
trouble.”
on us, and the Duc wouldn’t ’ave denied us that. But now… ’E is the Duc, but
some things even our ruler cannot do, or seem to support, without inviting
trouble.”
Having seen the élan of the French, Sirius understood that perfectly. People
who were willing to lose a dozen family members to avenge a single one would
certainly pose a problem, should they feel their ruler was betraying them. And
yet… “There might be trouble, though. The British Ministry is in dire need of
reforms.” Reforms that would only happen at wand-point.
who were willing to lose a dozen family members to avenge a single one would
certainly pose a problem, should they feel their ruler was betraying them. And
yet… “There might be trouble, though. The British Ministry is in dire need of
reforms.” Reforms that would only happen at wand-point.
“It’s a country’s prerogative to organise itself. A peaceful change would
certainly not be any cause for concern,” Vivienne said.
certainly not be any cause for concern,” Vivienne said.
Sirius doubted that — Dumbledore’s changes would have certainly been a topic
in the ICW if he hadn’t been so powerful — but he nodded anyway. There was no
reason to poke this particular dragon, yet.
in the ICW if he hadn’t been so powerful — but he nodded anyway. There was no
reason to poke this particular dragon, yet.
---
**London, London Bridge Hospital, February 2nd, 1997**
“Voldemort is dead and his followers shattered, but his ideology still lives.
The Ministry still believes that blood matters — that purebloods are better
than half-bloods and muggleborns. The Wizengamot is still composed of people
born into it, not elected, and they don’t just elect the Minister, but they
also serve as both parliament and court of law. This cannot continue! The past
year has shown just how easily such a system is abused!
The Ministry still believes that blood matters — that purebloods are better
than half-bloods and muggleborns. The Wizengamot is still composed of people
born into it, not elected, and they don’t just elect the Minister, but they
also serve as both parliament and court of law. This cannot continue! The past
year has shown just how easily such a system is abused!
“The privileges of the Old Families have to go! It doesn’t matter if you’re a
pureblood, a half-blood or a muggleborn — we are all equal, and should be
equal before the law! And together, we can change Britain for the better! We
can and will win!”
pureblood, a half-blood or a muggleborn — we are all equal, and should be
equal before the law! And together, we can change Britain for the better! We
can and will win!”
Ron Weasley sighed and leaned back in his bed as Hermione’s voice faded and
was replaced with muggle music. His girlfriend was correct, but her delivery
needed some work. If that had been Lee on the wireless…
was replaced with muggle music. His girlfriend was correct, but her delivery
needed some work. If that had been Lee on the wireless…
He resisted the urge to scratch the bandages on his side, even though the
stitches were itching. The sooner he was healed, the sooner he could help his
friends. And the sooner the stitches would be removed.
stitches were itching. The sooner he was healed, the sooner he could help his
friends. And the sooner the stitches would be removed.
He didn’t know how many would be listening to the Resistance Radio anyway —
not everyone might have noticed that the wireless was now broadcasting every
day. And the muggleborns listening to it might hesitate to return. He couldn’t
blame them — not with three horrible battles fought in the last month alone.
not everyone might have noticed that the wireless was now broadcasting every
day. And the muggleborns listening to it might hesitate to return. He couldn’t
blame them — not with three horrible battles fought in the last month alone.
He sighed. He wished Hermione was here with him. Or his family. But visiting
hours were over. And he was stuck in the muggle hospital. He glanced at the
enchanted mirror Harry had left him. He could call her, but… she had a lot to
do. A lot of important work. And he didn’t want to disturb her. She’d call at
her usual time.
hours were over. And he was stuck in the muggle hospital. He glanced at the
enchanted mirror Harry had left him. He could call her, but… she had a lot to
do. A lot of important work. And he didn’t want to disturb her. She’d call at
her usual time.
Ron pulled out the brochures Harry had brought from Quality Quidditch
Supplies. Their latest broom line up. Harry had told him to pick one — any one
— as replacement for the broom Voldemort had destroyed. Sirius would pay for
it.
Supplies. Their latest broom line up. Harry had told him to pick one — any one
— as replacement for the broom Voldemort had destroyed. Sirius would pay for
it.
Ron didn’t like receiving charity. He had his pride — as did his family. But
was this charity? He would need a broom, if things turned bad again. And
judging by what he had read in the Prophet, that didn’t seem to be that
unlikely. And Sirius was rich — he could afford it easily.
was this charity? He would need a broom, if things turned bad again. And
judging by what he had read in the Prophet, that didn’t seem to be that
unlikely. And Sirius was rich — he could afford it easily.
But that left him with the question of which model he should choose. The
Firebolt would be the obvious choice — it was the best broom on the market,
bar none. But to fly one of them, knowing that it had been a gift…
Firebolt would be the obvious choice — it was the best broom on the market,
bar none. But to fly one of them, knowing that it had been a gift…
There was another thing, of course. The Firebolt was ideal for Seekers,
Chasers and Beaters. But Ron was a Keeper. He didn’t need speed, he needed
manoeuvrability, and there were better brooms for that. At least for the
Quidditch pitch. If he wanted to go pro after Hogwarts, he would have to pick
a Keeper’s broom.
Chasers and Beaters. But Ron was a Keeper. He didn’t need speed, he needed
manoeuvrability, and there were better brooms for that. At least for the
Quidditch pitch. If he wanted to go pro after Hogwarts, he would have to pick
a Keeper’s broom.
If he wanted to go pro. Ron knew he wasn’t a Quidditch prodigy. Not like
Harry. But he was good. Not as good as Wood, but Wood was among the best in
the current league. So, coupled with his — small as it was — fame, Ron had a
decent chance at a career in Quidditch.
Harry. But he was good. Not as good as Wood, but Wood was among the best in
the current league. So, coupled with his — small as it was — fame, Ron had a
decent chance at a career in Quidditch.
But did he want such a career? It had been his dream to play professionally
since he had first flown a broom. To win a game while thousands of fans
cheered. But that had been before the war. It didn’t feel like such a great
thing any more. It was a game, the best game in the world, but… there were
more important things. The war had taught him that.
since he had first flown a broom. To win a game while thousands of fans
cheered. But that had been before the war. It didn’t feel like such a great
thing any more. It was a game, the best game in the world, but… there were
more important things. The war had taught him that.
And he didn’t fancy looking and acting like Ludo Bagman in twenty years.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 3rd, 1997**
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! We have gathered here for a special
session in order to decide the best course of action to lead our country
through these trying times.”
session in order to decide the best course of action to lead our country
through these trying times.”
Sirius Black scowled at the man. Philius Runcorn was the acting Chief Warlock
by virtue of being the most senior member of the Wizengamot. And he was a
blood purist who had been ‘missing’ since right before the Battle of the
Ministry. Probably a Death Eater too.
by virtue of being the most senior member of the Wizengamot. And he was a
blood purist who had been ‘missing’ since right before the Battle of the
Ministry. Probably a Death Eater too.
“With the Dark Lord having been defeated by the Boy-Who-Lived, the war is over
and it is time to mend the wounds it has caused our country! Far too many good
wizards and witches have died in the war! Far too many good families have
suffered greatly!”
and it is time to mend the wounds it has caused our country! Far too many good
wizards and witches have died in the war! Far too many good families have
suffered greatly!”
Sirius was certain that Runcorn didn’t meant anyone outside the Old Families
with his words.
with his words.
“It is time to restore order to Britain. The necessities of war no longer hold
sway over us, we can once again conduct our business according to our laws and
traditions.”
sway over us, we can once again conduct our business according to our laws and
traditions.”
Sirius glanced to Bones. The witch was nodding — she didn’t seem to mind that
Runcorn had all but admitted to be working for Voldemort when he had fled the
Wizengamot shortly before the Withering Curse had struck. And she was standing
up.
Runcorn had all but admitted to be working for Voldemort when he had fled the
Wizengamot shortly before the Withering Curse had struck. And she was standing
up.
“The chair recognises the Minister for Magic.”
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot!” Bones started to speak, “You all know
how many casualties the Ministry forces suffered during the war. With our
current numbers, we can barely patrol Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. We need more
recruits to provide Britain with the protection it needs. I therefore propose
to extend the emergency funds allocated to the recruitment and training of
Aurors and Hit-Wizards until we have restored our normal numbers and
competency. The war has disrupted the social order, and in order to prevent
unscrupulous elements from taking advantage of that, we need more wands in the
Ministry’s service.”
how many casualties the Ministry forces suffered during the war. With our
current numbers, we can barely patrol Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade. We need more
recruits to provide Britain with the protection it needs. I therefore propose
to extend the emergency funds allocated to the recruitment and training of
Aurors and Hit-Wizards until we have restored our normal numbers and
competency. The war has disrupted the social order, and in order to prevent
unscrupulous elements from taking advantage of that, we need more wands in the
Ministry’s service.”
Sirius saw many members of the Wizengamot nod in agreement. There was no point
in trying to oppose this. But even with extended funding, the Ministry would
remain weak for quite some time.
in trying to oppose this. But even with extended funding, the Ministry would
remain weak for quite some time.
It didn’t take long for the proposal to be discussed, and it was passed with
an overwhelming majority. Another proposal to allocate more funds to the DoM
to research a cure for the Withering Curse passed as well.
an overwhelming majority. Another proposal to allocate more funds to the DoM
to research a cure for the Withering Curse passed as well.
“The chair recognises Mister Greengrass.”
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! I’ve heard people claim that the war is
over, but my niece and others are still held in captivity by the muggleborns.
What is the Ministry doing to save them?”
over, but my niece and others are still held in captivity by the muggleborns.
What is the Ministry doing to save them?”
Amos scoffed loudly, and said: “They were fighting for the Dark Lord! They
don’t need to be saved — they need to be executed!” It took a while for the
excitement and outrage that this caused to die down.
don’t need to be saved — they need to be executed!” It took a while for the
excitement and outrage that this caused to die down.
“The chair recognises the Minister for Magic.”
“Mister Greengrass, the Ministry couldn’t take action previously since we had
an agreement with the Muggleborn Resistance for the duration of the war. With
the war over, the Resistance is obligated to hand their prisoners over to the
Ministry, or they’ll be guilty of kidnapping.”
an agreement with the Muggleborn Resistance for the duration of the war. With
the war over, the Resistance is obligated to hand their prisoners over to the
Ministry, or they’ll be guilty of kidnapping.”
“And do you think they’ll listen to you?” Greengrass gestured with his wand.
“They have murdered my family and started this war in the first place.
Something far too many here seem to have forgotten!”
“They have murdered my family and started this war in the first place.
Something far too many here seem to have forgotten!”
“The Death Eaters started this war when they murdered my son!” Amos yelled.
“People like your family!”
“People like your family!”
“How dare you!” Greengrass stared at Amos, baring his teeth.
Runcorn called for order, but was mostly ignored. Bones’s face could have
curdled milk. Sirius leaned back and enjoyed the show. It didn’t look like the
Ministry would be able to easily push their proposals through. And he hadn’t
yet had to stir the pot up himself.
curdled milk. Sirius leaned back and enjoyed the show. It didn’t look like the
Ministry would be able to easily push their proposals through. And he hadn’t
yet had to stir the pot up himself.
Finally, the Wizengamot settled down again, and Bones continued: “The
Ministry, as the only legal authority in Britain, will do its utmost to
restore law and order. We will not let this country descend into anarchy.”
Ministry, as the only legal authority in Britain, will do its utmost to
restore law and order. We will not let this country descend into anarchy.”
Sirius raised his wand.
“The chair recognises Mister Black.”
“Those are brave words, Minister,” Sirius said, smirking. “Even more so since
the Dark Lord was not defeated by your forces, but by the Order of the Phoenix
and the Muggleborn Resistance.”
the Dark Lord was not defeated by your forces, but by the Order of the Phoenix
and the Muggleborn Resistance.”
“He was defeated by the Boy-Who-Lived!” Weatherby yelled.
“Yes. With the help of the Order and the Resistance,” Sirius said, sneering at
the man. ‘I was there. I fought the Dark Lord myself. I know what happened,
unlike everyone else who believes the Daily Prophet’s lies.’ Bones’s face
looked like it had been petrified, Sirius noted with some satisfaction. “And I
think some of my esteemed colleagues are a bit too quick to consider the war
over.”
the man. ‘I was there. I fought the Dark Lord myself. I know what happened,
unlike everyone else who believes the Daily Prophet’s lies.’ Bones’s face
looked like it had been petrified, Sirius noted with some satisfaction. “And I
think some of my esteemed colleagues are a bit too quick to consider the war
over.”
“What do you mean?” Rowle asked.
“Did you forget how this war started?” Sirius grinned widely. “It started when
the Muggleborn Resistance struck back after the muggleborns had suffered a
year of persecution at the hands of the Ministry. Do you honestly think they
will simply go back to how things were, and let you rule them again as you
please?”
the Muggleborn Resistance struck back after the muggleborns had suffered a
year of persecution at the hands of the Ministry. Do you honestly think they
will simply go back to how things were, and let you rule them again as you
please?”
“Most of them died in the war!” Greengrass yelled.
“More than enough are left,” Sirius retorted. He let his gaze sweep through
the chamber. “Some of my esteemed colleagues here seem to think that you can
simply ignore those who have killed the Dark Lord and go on as you used to.
You are wrong. No amount of lies published in the Daily Prophet will make them
go away. Before you try to make any decisions about Britain’s future, you
should ensure that you actually have the power to make such decisions.”
the chamber. “Some of my esteemed colleagues here seem to think that you can
simply ignore those who have killed the Dark Lord and go on as you used to.
You are wrong. No amount of lies published in the Daily Prophet will make them
go away. Before you try to make any decisions about Britain’s future, you
should ensure that you actually have the power to make such decisions.”
“Are you threatening the Ministry, Mister Black?” Bones was glaring at him.
Sirius snorted. “I’m pointing out that you’re trying to treat those who killed
the Dark Lord as if they do not matter. That’s not just stupid, that’s
dangerous as well. They might think you’re planning to follow in his
footsteps. The muggleborns certainly haven’t forgotten how quickly the
Ministry turned on them a year and a half ago. And they do not think that just
because you’ve been born into an Old Family, you should be able to rule them.”
the Dark Lord as if they do not matter. That’s not just stupid, that’s
dangerous as well. They might think you’re planning to follow in his
footsteps. The muggleborns certainly haven’t forgotten how quickly the
Ministry turned on them a year and a half ago. And they do not think that just
because you’ve been born into an Old Family, you should be able to rule them.”
“What do you want, Black?”
Sirius smiled. “You should ask that question to the muggleborns. Before they
show you what they want.”
show you what they want.”
---
**Hogwarts, February 3rd, 1997**
“There he is!”
“The Boy-Who-Lived!”
“Harry Potter!”
Harry Potter almost cringed when he passed the group of Hufflepuffs in the
hallway. He wanted to yell at them that he hadn’t done it alone, that without
his friends, he’d have been dead before he reached the Dark Lord. But that
wouldn’t help — he had tried earlier today.
hallway. He wanted to yell at them that he hadn’t done it alone, that without
his friends, he’d have been dead before he reached the Dark Lord. But that
wouldn’t help — he had tried earlier today.
The latest Prophet had made things even worse, making it look as if Harry and
Voldemort had duelled in the middle of the street, displaying unmatched skill
at magic, houses tumbling and blowing up while they fought. Someone at the
Prophet had had a really fertile imagination, and some talent with a brush,
and the students — who really should have known, and known him, better —
lapped it up.
Voldemort had duelled in the middle of the street, displaying unmatched skill
at magic, houses tumbling and blowing up while they fought. Someone at the
Prophet had had a really fertile imagination, and some talent with a brush,
and the students — who really should have known, and known him, better —
lapped it up.
If that was what the rest of his time at Hogwarts would be like he had better
quit…
quit…
Harry stopped walking. Quitting Hogwarts sounded horrible, at first. The
school had been his home for years. The first place he could remember where he
could be happy. But he had a real home, now, at Grimmauld Place. With Sirius.
And he might have to quit Hogwarts anyway. If the Ministry decided to fight
the Resistance rather than change, Harry would fight as well. And he couldn’t
stay at Hogwarts in that case — the Aurors would come for him.
school had been his home for years. The first place he could remember where he
could be happy. But he had a real home, now, at Grimmauld Place. With Sirius.
And he might have to quit Hogwarts anyway. If the Ministry decided to fight
the Resistance rather than change, Harry would fight as well. And he couldn’t
stay at Hogwarts in that case — the Aurors would come for him.
And even without another war, Harry wasn’t quite certain how he’d handle it if
McGonagall tried to make him behave like a normal student again, with a
curfew, detentions, and listening to prefects…
McGonagall tried to make him behave like a normal student again, with a
curfew, detentions, and listening to prefects…
“Harry Potter! Finally!”
He looked up and saw Luna Lovegood walk straight towards him. Or stalk towards
him. “Luna?”
him. “Luna?”
“Yes?” She stopped and cocked her head sideways, looking at him.
For a moment, he was tempted to use Legilimency, but he controlled himself. He
would respect her privacy. He blinked. “Ah… how can I help you?”
would respect her privacy. He blinked. “Ah… how can I help you?”
She beamed at him. “I need your help with an interview!”
“Ah…” It wasn’t a bad idea. The Quibbler had covered the war quite decently.
Harry could use this to set the record straight. “Of course, Luna. With
pleasure.”
Harry could use this to set the record straight. “Of course, Luna. With
pleasure.”
“Good! When can you take me to Hermione’s lair?” Her head bobbed up as she
spoke, smiling widely.
spoke, smiling widely.
“What?”
“Hermione’s lair. She’s become the Boggart for so many purebloods, especially
in the Wizengamot, that she might have become a new magical species from sheer
sympathetic magic. And I think a lair sounds better than a home. More exotic.”
in the Wizengamot, that she might have become a new magical species from sheer
sympathetic magic. And I think a lair sounds better than a home. More exotic.”
“Ah.” Harry stared at her. Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea. On the other
hand… it gave him an excuse to leave Hogwarts, and it might help counter the
Ministry’s lies. “Let me check…”
hand… it gave him an excuse to leave Hogwarts, and it might help counter the
Ministry’s lies. “Let me check…”
He just hoped Hermione was in a good mood.
---
**Walney Island, Cumbria, Britain, February 3rd, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood looked around the old house, flicks of his wand clearing
dust and dirt. It was quite small, but nothing a few Extension Charms couldn’t
fix. More important was that the small cottage was unplottable, hidden in a
nature reserve on the island. No one would find him here — not even the Dark
Lord had known about this cottage.
dust and dirt. It was quite small, but nothing a few Extension Charms couldn’t
fix. More important was that the small cottage was unplottable, hidden in a
nature reserve on the island. No one would find him here — not even the Dark
Lord had known about this cottage.
He glanced at his left arm. He still had trouble accepting that the Dark Mark
was gone. That the Dark Lord had actually died, despite his numerous
Horcruxes. Augustus didn’t know how Dumbledore had managed to kill the Dark
Lord — after dying himself, even — but he was determined to find out. He had
to, to avoid the same fate. Augustus knew that there had been a special
connection between the Dark Lord and the Boy-Who-Lived, and he hoped that this
had been the cause of the Dark Lord’s defeat. It would make it less of a
concern.
was gone. That the Dark Lord had actually died, despite his numerous
Horcruxes. Augustus didn’t know how Dumbledore had managed to kill the Dark
Lord — after dying himself, even — but he was determined to find out. He had
to, to avoid the same fate. Augustus knew that there had been a special
connection between the Dark Lord and the Boy-Who-Lived, and he hoped that this
had been the cause of the Dark Lord’s defeat. It would make it less of a
concern.
He was alone, of course. The other survivors had split up — it had been every
wizard for himself. Augustus expected at least one of them to turn traitor
like Karkaroff any day now. He wasn’t bothered by that thought, though — he
was already known as a Death Eater, so he had no cover to lose.
wizard for himself. Augustus expected at least one of them to turn traitor
like Karkaroff any day now. He wasn’t bothered by that thought, though — he
was already known as a Death Eater, so he had no cover to lose.
He also was the last member of the Dark Lord’s Inner Circle, not counting that
pathetic Pettigrew, who had disappeared even before the Dark Lord’s death, and
he knew that the Ministry would hunt him. Their Aurors were not much of a
threat, but his former colleagues… with the fall of the Dark Lord, he had lost
his protection against them, and they had the means to find him, or any other
wayward Unspeakable.
pathetic Pettigrew, who had disappeared even before the Dark Lord’s death, and
he knew that the Ministry would hunt him. Their Aurors were not much of a
threat, but his former colleagues… with the fall of the Dark Lord, he had lost
his protection against them, and they had the means to find him, or any other
wayward Unspeakable.
He needed some leverage to cut a deal with them before his own precautions
failed. And, he added to himself, looking at the notes he had gathered, he
just knew what his leverage would be.
failed. And, he added to himself, looking at the notes he had gathered, he
just knew what his leverage would be.
The lives of all the victims of the Withering Curse would make for a powerful
bargaining chip. Once he had discovered its secrets, which shouldn’t take that
long.
bargaining chip. Once he had discovered its secrets, which shouldn’t take that
long.
Chapter 43: Interviews and Funerals
===================================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox and fredfred for betaing. They improved the
story a lot.
story a lot.
---
**Chapter 43: Interviews and Funerals**
*‘Without a doubt, Amelia Bones’s term of office occurred during the most
critical and dangerous period of the 20th century for Wizarding Britain — she
took the office of Minister for Magic at the height of the Second Blood War.
Her predecessor, Cornelius Fudge, had been murdered, on the orders of the Dark
Lord, and soon afterwards Albus Dumbledore himself fell victim to a dark
curse. With the only wizard feared by both the Dark Lord and the Muggleborn
Resistance dead and the Ministry’s forces depleted, Bones’s prospects were
dire. And yet, Bones did not even think of surrendering Wizarding Britain to
either faction — instead, she did what she felt was her duty to the Ministry
and to the Wizengamot, no matter the opposition she faced.’*
critical and dangerous period of the 20th century for Wizarding Britain — she
took the office of Minister for Magic at the height of the Second Blood War.
Her predecessor, Cornelius Fudge, had been murdered, on the orders of the Dark
Lord, and soon afterwards Albus Dumbledore himself fell victim to a dark
curse. With the only wizard feared by both the Dark Lord and the Muggleborn
Resistance dead and the Ministry’s forces depleted, Bones’s prospects were
dire. And yet, Bones did not even think of surrendering Wizarding Britain to
either faction — instead, she did what she felt was her duty to the Ministry
and to the Wizengamot, no matter the opposition she faced.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, Greenwich, February 5th, 1997**
“Hello,” Hermione Granger said with a smile when Harry led Luna into the
one-room flat in Greenwich the Resistance had rented as an emergency safe
house months ago.
one-room flat in Greenwich the Resistance had rented as an emergency safe
house months ago.
“Hi,” Harry said.
“This doesn’t look like a proper lair,” Luna said with a pout. She was looking
at the muggle furniture, and not at her.
at the muggle furniture, and not at her.
“A lair?” Hermione glanced at Harry, who looked slightly guilty.
“As the purebloods’ Boggart, you need a lair!” Before Hermione could ask what
she meant, Luna went on: ‘Although I guess the amount of muggleness here would
serve well enough to scare most purebloods.’ Luna nodded at her own words,
cocking her head to study the microwave in the kitchenette. “A lair, hidden in
plain sight, yes.” And she started scribbling down notes on what looked like a
scroll of parchment stuck to a noteboard almost as big as her torso. Then she
looked up with a hopeful expression. “I don’t suppose you’ll show me the
dungeons where you keep the prisoners taken during the war? No?”
she meant, Luna went on: ‘Although I guess the amount of muggleness here would
serve well enough to scare most purebloods.’ Luna nodded at her own words,
cocking her head to study the microwave in the kitchenette. “A lair, hidden in
plain sight, yes.” And she started scribbling down notes on what looked like a
scroll of parchment stuck to a noteboard almost as big as her torso. Then she
looked up with a hopeful expression. “I don’t suppose you’ll show me the
dungeons where you keep the prisoners taken during the war? No?”
Hermione blinked, then glanced at Harry again, who was very busy studying the
fridge’s contents. Which consisted of food that wouldn’t perish for a few
months. She cleared her throat.
fridge’s contents. Which consisted of food that wouldn’t perish for a few
months. She cleared her throat.
“Yes?” Harry looked over his shoulder.
“If you are done inspecting our store of emergency rations…” She couldn’t tell
if he was embarrassed or amused, or both. Probably both — her friend would
give an interview himself, supporting the Resistance’s goals.
if he was embarrassed or amused, or both. Probably both — her friend would
give an interview himself, supporting the Resistance’s goals.
“Oh! Muggle food! Is it true that you eat stylised effigies of the god of war
to prepare for battle?” Luna moved behind Harry and looked over his shoulder
into the fridge.
to prepare for battle?” Luna moved behind Harry and looked over his shoulder
into the fridge.
“Effigies of the… do you mean Mars Bars?”
“Yes.” Luna nodded, hitting Harry’s shoulder with her chin a few times. ‘The
Rotfang Conspiracy is fond of using them since they are so gooey that they
easily adhere to teeth.’ Turning around so fast that her long hair hit Harry
in the face she stared at Hermione. “Are you allied with them? They, too, plan
the subjugation of the Ministry! Or was it just an alliance of convenience,
and now you are rivals for control of Wizarding Britain?”
Rotfang Conspiracy is fond of using them since they are so gooey that they
easily adhere to teeth.’ Turning around so fast that her long hair hit Harry
in the face she stared at Hermione. “Are you allied with them? They, too, plan
the subjugation of the Ministry! Or was it just an alliance of convenience,
and now you are rivals for control of Wizarding Britain?”
“I’m not aware of this Rotfang Conspiracy,” Hermione said, with a forced
smile. She wanted to mention that her parents were dentists, but then Luna
might mention them in an article. And she’d prefer it if her family were
forgotten by Wizarding Britain. At least until things had changed.
smile. She wanted to mention that her parents were dentists, but then Luna
might mention them in an article. And she’d prefer it if her family were
forgotten by Wizarding Britain. At least until things had changed.
“Oh? I’d have expected you to be aware of such threats. Or… are you trying to
fool them into thinking that you don’t know about them? That won’t work since
we’ve covered them in The Quibbler extensively. Or is this a double-bluff? You
know that they know that you know…” Luna’s slightly protuberant eyes seemed to
lose focus.
fool them into thinking that you don’t know about them? That won’t work since
we’ve covered them in The Quibbler extensively. Or is this a double-bluff? You
know that they know that you know…” Luna’s slightly protuberant eyes seemed to
lose focus.
Hermione realised that her plan to oppose the Ministry’s quasi-monopoly in the
press by using The Quibbler wouldn’t be quite as easy as she had thought.
Apparently, Ron had been understating things a great deal when he had
described the Lovegoods as ‘eccentric’. And it seemed that the rumours that
her father printed stories accusing Fudge of butchering and cooking goblins
were true as well.
press by using The Quibbler wouldn’t be quite as easy as she had thought.
Apparently, Ron had been understating things a great deal when he had
described the Lovegoods as ‘eccentric’. And it seemed that the rumours that
her father printed stories accusing Fudge of butchering and cooking goblins
were true as well.
---
“What are your thoughts on the end of the war?” Luna asked, leaning forward on
the couch, her notepad balanced on her knees. The scroll of parchment stuck to
it seemed to never end and it could float in the air as if it was on a table.
Hermione was very curious as to which spells had been used to create it, but
now that Luna had finally started to act like a professional reporter and not
a conspiracy nut, it was time to focus on the interview.
the couch, her notepad balanced on her knees. The scroll of parchment stuck to
it seemed to never end and it could float in the air as if it was on a table.
Hermione was very curious as to which spells had been used to create it, but
now that Luna had finally started to act like a professional reporter and not
a conspiracy nut, it was time to focus on the interview.
“I am relieved that Voldemort’s attempt to violently overthrow the Ministry
and murder all muggleborns and so-called ‘blood traitors’ has been stopped,”
Hermione answered. She was sitting on one of the two seats in the flat. Harry
was in the other, reading through the stack of The Quibblers covering the low
table between them. “But the Ministry is trying to ignore the fact that
Voldemort wasn’t the only reason this war started. That is understandable, of
course — the Ministry would rather not remind the people of its own guilt.”
and murder all muggleborns and so-called ‘blood traitors’ has been stopped,”
Hermione answered. She was sitting on one of the two seats in the flat. Harry
was in the other, reading through the stack of The Quibblers covering the low
table between them. “But the Ministry is trying to ignore the fact that
Voldemort wasn’t the only reason this war started. That is understandable, of
course — the Ministry would rather not remind the people of its own guilt.”
“So, will you be continuing the war until the Ministry surrenders?” Neither
Luna’s tone nor her expression changed when she asked this question.
Luna’s tone nor her expression changed when she asked this question.
“I do not think that the Ministry is willing to fight a war in defence of the
very ideology of the Dark Lord they just fought,” Hermione said. “The Death
Eaters thought that blood mattered, that purebloods were superior to
half-bloods and muggleborns simply by the virtue of their birth. That sick
idea has cost so many lives in the last two wars, who in their right mind
would be willing to fight another war for it?”
very ideology of the Dark Lord they just fought,” Hermione said. “The Death
Eaters thought that blood mattered, that purebloods were superior to
half-bloods and muggleborns simply by the virtue of their birth. That sick
idea has cost so many lives in the last two wars, who in their right mind
would be willing to fight another war for it?”
“The Ministry hasn’t always acted in a rational manner in the past,” Luna
pointed out — which meant a lot coming from a Lovegood as Hermione now knew
only too well — she had tried to convince Luna that she really did not know
anything about a Rotfang Conspiracy, which had resulted in a lengthy
explanation that had strained Hermione’s self-control until she remembered
that, not counting the insanity of the topic, this was how she had often acted
in the past. Harry’s smile told her that he had made the connection as well.
pointed out — which meant a lot coming from a Lovegood as Hermione now knew
only too well — she had tried to convince Luna that she really did not know
anything about a Rotfang Conspiracy, which had resulted in a lengthy
explanation that had strained Hermione’s self-control until she remembered
that, not counting the insanity of the topic, this was how she had often acted
in the past. Harry’s smile told her that he had made the connection as well.
“That is true.” Hermione nodded. Some of the past decisions she had read about
boggled the mind, “But in this case, the decision lies not with the Ministry,
but with the Wizengamot. And so many members of the Wizengamot have died in
the last war, I do hope that the rest are fully aware of what would they
unleash, should they attempt to keep oppressing muggleborns, half-bloods, and
basically anyone who is not a member of the so-called ‘Old Families’.”
boggled the mind, “But in this case, the decision lies not with the Ministry,
but with the Wizengamot. And so many members of the Wizengamot have died in
the last war, I do hope that the rest are fully aware of what would they
unleash, should they attempt to keep oppressing muggleborns, half-bloods, and
basically anyone who is not a member of the so-called ‘Old Families’.”
“Weren’t the muggleborn laws repealed?” Luna asked. She cocked her head
sideways until her ear touched her shoulder, then straightened up. “Even
though I looked at it from another angle, your statement didn’t change.”
sideways until her ear touched her shoulder, then straightened up. “Even
though I looked at it from another angle, your statement didn’t change.”
“Those laws were just the most outrageous result of the oppressive autocratic
nature of the current system,” Hermione said, then bit her lip to avoid
starting a rant. “They could be passed because, except for a few families, no
wizard or witch, no matter their blood status, has any say in how Wizarding
Britain is governed. The Wizengamot is composed of hereditary seats with a few
seats appointed by the Minister — who in turn is elected by the Wizengamot.
Why should a few purebloods have the power to decide how the rest of us have
to live?”
nature of the current system,” Hermione said, then bit her lip to avoid
starting a rant. “They could be passed because, except for a few families, no
wizard or witch, no matter their blood status, has any say in how Wizarding
Britain is governed. The Wizengamot is composed of hereditary seats with a few
seats appointed by the Minister — who in turn is elected by the Wizengamot.
Why should a few purebloods have the power to decide how the rest of us have
to live?”
“I think they derive their power from the way the Wizengamot was set up,” Luna
said.
said.
“That was before even the Statute of Secrecy and many of the most common
spells we use every day had been created,” Hermione countered. “Wizarding
Britain has changed drastically in the past centuries, and it is high time to
adjust its government to reflect that. The last war has clearly demonstrated
that it isn’t working any more.”
spells we use every day had been created,” Hermione countered. “Wizarding
Britain has changed drastically in the past centuries, and it is high time to
adjust its government to reflect that. The last war has clearly demonstrated
that it isn’t working any more.”
“Does that mean that if the Wizengamot does not relinquish its power, the
Resistance will go to war?” Luna still didn’t bat an eye. Hermione didn’t know
if Luna was simply far more professional than she had acted so far, or if she
didn’t quite realise what that would mean.
Resistance will go to war?” Luna still didn’t bat an eye. Hermione didn’t know
if Luna was simply far more professional than she had acted so far, or if she
didn’t quite realise what that would mean.
Nevertheless, she had to answer that. “No. We do not want the Wizengamot to
relinquish its power.” Not all of it, at least. “But we want the Wizengamot to
be composed of members elected for a term by the population.”
relinquish its power.” Not all of it, at least. “But we want the Wizengamot to
be composed of members elected for a term by the population.”
“Like the Minister?”
“In a similar way. Everyone would be able to vote for the candidates, and
those with the most votes would form the Wizengamot until the next election.”
Since the population of Wizarding Britain couldn’t be split into districts
easily, they’d need a system of proportional representation, not the First
Past the Post system used in muggle Britain.
those with the most votes would form the Wizengamot until the next election.”
Since the population of Wizarding Britain couldn’t be split into districts
easily, they’d need a system of proportional representation, not the First
Past the Post system used in muggle Britain.
“But the Minister is usually chosen beforehand, and the election is just a
formality,” Luna pointed out.
formality,” Luna pointed out.
Hermione frowned, then forced herself to smile. It wasn’t Luna’s fault, and it
wasn’t as if such things didn’t happen in the United Kingdom either. “That
wouldn’t happen since you’d have to convince the entirety of Wizarding
Britain.”
wasn’t as if such things didn’t happen in the United Kingdom either. “That
wouldn’t happen since you’d have to convince the entirety of Wizarding
Britain.”
“Oh. But wouldn’t that make any decision impossible? You can’t convince
everyone all the time, unless you’re using the Imperius. You’re not, are you?”
everyone all the time, unless you’re using the Imperius. You’re not, are you?”
“No, there’s no plan to use the Imperius in politics. Not on the Resistance’s
side, at least. I can’t speak for the Old Families, of course — many of them
have been involved in such abuse in the past.” That kind of rumour Hermione
and the Resistance could do without. “And the Ministry used the Imperius Curse
on muggleborns, in an attempt to force them to spy on us.”
side, at least. I can’t speak for the Old Families, of course — many of them
have been involved in such abuse in the past.” That kind of rumour Hermione
and the Resistance could do without. “And the Ministry used the Imperius Curse
on muggleborns, in an attempt to force them to spy on us.”
“Oh!” Luna paused her scribbling. “How did you deal with that?”
“We were forced to kill one of them, but we saved the other, keeping her safe
until we could get her to a Thief’s Downfall.” Hermione pressed her lips
together before she went into another rant about the Ministry’s tactics.
until we could get her to a Thief’s Downfall.” Hermione pressed her lips
together before she went into another rant about the Ministry’s tactics.
“Oh. So, are you concerned about the Ministry using the Imperius to win an
election?” Luna asked, leaning forward.
election?” Luna asked, leaning forward.
“They haven’t yet withdrawn the special authorisation granted to Aurors and
Hit-Wizards to use the Imperius Curse and the Killing Curse,” Hermione said.
‘They said there were still Death Eaters unaccounted for — Rookwood and
Pettigrew, to name the two most prominent — but they also claim the war is
over and everyone should go back to normal.’ She shrugged. “A tiny
contradiction, I’d say.”
Hit-Wizards to use the Imperius Curse and the Killing Curse,” Hermione said.
‘They said there were still Death Eaters unaccounted for — Rookwood and
Pettigrew, to name the two most prominent — but they also claim the war is
over and everyone should go back to normal.’ She shrugged. “A tiny
contradiction, I’d say.”
“Will you be returning to Hogwarts?”
“No.” Hermione shook her head, frowning. “It would be quite irresponsible in
the current situation.”
the current situation.”
“And after this has been resolved? And will you restart your sixth year, or
enter seventh?”
enter seventh?”
“I do not know how long it’ll take to reform Wizarding Britain. I’m planning
to take my N.E.W.T.s after self-study.” She also didn’t want to study with
people whose family she might have killed during the war. The potential for
violence was just too great, and Hermione didn’t know if she could abstain
from lethal measures when defending herself against an attacker at school. Or
if she wanted to, in the first place.
to take my N.E.W.T.s after self-study.” She also didn’t want to study with
people whose family she might have killed during the war. The potential for
violence was just too great, and Hermione didn’t know if she could abstain
from lethal measures when defending herself against an attacker at school. Or
if she wanted to, in the first place.
Harry lowered his magazine and looked at her, sighing. Hermione knew that he
had to deal with this as well, though his situation was not quite as serious.
Unlike Hermione and the other members of the Resistance, he hadn’t killed
quite as many Death Eaters and their, misguided or not, supporters. Still, she
wondered if either Harry or Ron would end up maiming some of the purebloods
who had fled Hogwarts, should they return. Moody’s training certainly wouldn’t
help them to avoid killing an attacker.
had to deal with this as well, though his situation was not quite as serious.
Unlike Hermione and the other members of the Resistance, he hadn’t killed
quite as many Death Eaters and their, misguided or not, supporters. Still, she
wondered if either Harry or Ron would end up maiming some of the purebloods
who had fled Hogwarts, should they return. Moody’s training certainly wouldn’t
help them to avoid killing an attacker.
She had planned to organise some PTSD treatment for the Order and the
Resistance for a while now, but she hadn’t yet found a psychiatrist who knew
about magic. Maybe one of the parents of a muggleborn was a licensed
therapist.
Resistance for a while now, but she hadn’t yet found a psychiatrist who knew
about magic. Maybe one of the parents of a muggleborn was a licensed
therapist.
“How will that influence your relationship with Ron Weasley? If he’s at
Hogwarts for another year and a half, and you’ll only be able to see each
other during the Hogsmeade weekends, that would put a strain on it, wouldn’t
it?”
Hogwarts for another year and a half, and you’ll only be able to see each
other during the Hogsmeade weekends, that would put a strain on it, wouldn’t
it?”
Hermione blinked. That was a rather personal question. A glance told her that
Harry was focusing on his magazine again. She cleared her throat. “We’ll
manage.” Neither she nor Ron cared about the curfew and other rules of
Hogwarts any more, and would meet whenever they pleased, but she wasn’t about
to announce that. It was one thing to ignore the rules, another to flaunt that
fact.
Harry was focusing on his magazine again. She cleared her throat. “We’ll
manage.” Neither she nor Ron cared about the curfew and other rules of
Hogwarts any more, and would meet whenever they pleased, but she wasn’t about
to announce that. It was one thing to ignore the rules, another to flaunt that
fact.
Luna nodded. Hermione expected her to pursue the topic further, but the other
witch changed the topic. “Now, let’s address the most important question for
our readers: How do you handle your new status as a magical creature?”
witch changed the topic. “Now, let’s address the most important question for
our readers: How do you handle your new status as a magical creature?”
Hermione blinked.
“What?”
“You are widely known as the worst fear of Britain’s purebloods — their
Boggart. Just as the Dark Lord was, before his death. It’s quite likely that
you will be transforming into a magical creature as well.”
Boggart. Just as the Dark Lord was, before his death. It’s quite likely that
you will be transforming into a magical creature as well.”
“What?”
---
At first, watching Luna interview Hermione had been amusing, Harry Potter
thought. But towards the end… He couldn’t tell if Luna had been serious, or
simply used her magical creature speculation to discreetly ask more
uncomfortable questions. And neither could Hermione, or so he thought.
thought. But towards the end… He couldn’t tell if Luna had been serious, or
simply used her magical creature speculation to discreetly ask more
uncomfortable questions. And neither could Hermione, or so he thought.
And now it was his turn. Fortunately, she didn’t think he was turning into a
magical creature, and he’d told her in advance that he wouldn’t go into the
details of his fight with Voldemort.
magical creature, and he’d told her in advance that he wouldn’t go into the
details of his fight with Voldemort.
“You have defeated the Dark Lord in single combat, saving Wizarding Britain.
But at the same time, you also killed a unique magical creature — a
human-snake-hybrid. How do you feel about that?”
But at the same time, you also killed a unique magical creature — a
human-snake-hybrid. How do you feel about that?”
Harry didn’t think that ‘I don’t give a damn’ would be a polite answer. “I’m
relieved that this threat to us all is finally over. Anything else is, at
best, a secondary concern.” He had dealt with several magical creatures over
the last few years, after all, and it was hard to feel sympathetic for
anything that wanted to kill him.
relieved that this threat to us all is finally over. Anything else is, at
best, a secondary concern.” He had dealt with several magical creatures over
the last few years, after all, and it was hard to feel sympathetic for
anything that wanted to kill him.
Hermione nodded approvingly. Harry felt like a politician already — they had
talked about his statements in advance. He had drawn the line when Hermione
had talked about a magical version of a teleprompter, though — he was no
mouthpiece.
talked about his statements in advance. He had drawn the line when Hermione
had talked about a magical version of a teleprompter, though — he was no
mouthpiece.
Luna frowned slightly, or so he thought — her face was mostly hidden behind
her pad. “You were personally trained by Dumbledore for your confrontation
with the Dark Lord. Did he have an opinion on the impact of this conflict on
the magical environment?”
her pad. “You were personally trained by Dumbledore for your confrontation
with the Dark Lord. Did he have an opinion on the impact of this conflict on
the magical environment?”
“That wasn’t a topic during my lessons,” Harry said. “Dumbledore was far more
focused on the effect the war had on the people. He was quite adamant about
the need to reform Wizarding Britain, and he warned us about the dangers of
taking revenge for what happened in the war.”
focused on the effect the war had on the people. He was quite adamant about
the need to reform Wizarding Britain, and he warned us about the dangers of
taking revenge for what happened in the war.”
Luna blinked at him. “You said ‘us’, not ‘me’.”
“The Headmaster spoke to me, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger.” In a message
after his death, but that wasn’t important, Harry thought. “He also talked to
Sirius Black, of course. He cautioned us against making the same mistakes that
were made in the past.”
after his death, but that wasn’t important, Harry thought. “He also talked to
Sirius Black, of course. He cautioned us against making the same mistakes that
were made in the past.”
“Would those have been his own mistakes?”
“Yes.” Harry nodded. “Which is why I support Hermione’s proposal for reforming
the Wizengamot. Wizarding Britain is currently a country divided against
itself. In order to mend the rifts the war has torn open, we need a Wizengamot
and Ministry that represent all of us, not just a few of us.”
the Wizengamot. Wizarding Britain is currently a country divided against
itself. In order to mend the rifts the war has torn open, we need a Wizengamot
and Ministry that represent all of us, not just a few of us.”
“And what will you do if the Wizengamot is infected by Wrackspurts and will
not agree with this?” Luna looked straight at him with an unreadable
expression.
not agree with this?” Luna looked straight at him with an unreadable
expression.
“The Wizengamot members claim that they have the right to rule us because they
were born to the right families. The Dark Lord thought the same — he just
thought that his own family was the only ‘right family’. That idea should have
died with him.”
were born to the right families. The Dark Lord thought the same — he just
thought that his own family was the only ‘right family’. That idea should have
died with him.”
“Would you go to war over this?” Luna asked.
“We don’t want a war. But if we have the choice between a war and being
oppressed… We fought the Dark Lord and his followers already, and we’ll fight
against anyone else trying to oppress us.”
oppressed… We fought the Dark Lord and his followers already, and we’ll fight
against anyone else trying to oppress us.”
“Have you considered a remedy against Wrackspurts first? Teaching the infected
to think positive thoughts would certainly avoid such a war.”
to think positive thoughts would certainly avoid such a war.”
“I’m not certain that all of the Wizengamot members are in the habit of
thinking at all.”
thinking at all.”
Judging by Hermione’s expression, she didn’t think that was as funny as Harry
thought.
thought.
---
**Outside Hogsmeade, February 5th, 1997**
“So, what’s your impression of Hermione’s lair?” Harry Potter asked Luna while
they were walking back to Hogwarts from Hogsmeade. He wasn’t looking at her,
but at their surroundings, wand in hand, and had cast a
Human-presence-revealing Charm, just in case there was an ambush ahead of
them. There were still a few Death Eaters left unaccounted for, after all, and
once his interview was published, some of the Wizengamot members might be
stooping to such measures as well. If they weren’t already.
they were walking back to Hogwarts from Hogsmeade. He wasn’t looking at her,
but at their surroundings, wand in hand, and had cast a
Human-presence-revealing Charm, just in case there was an ambush ahead of
them. There were still a few Death Eaters left unaccounted for, after all, and
once his interview was published, some of the Wizengamot members might be
stooping to such measures as well. If they weren’t already.
“I hoped for something more fitting. Looming shadows, dark creatures moving
beneath the floorboards, ready to jump up and devour unsuspecting visitors,
swarms of Heliopaths looted from the Minister’s secret office during the war.
There wasn’t even a trapdoor to drop people into a dark pit or reach an escape
tunnel. Or was there?”
beneath the floorboards, ready to jump up and devour unsuspecting visitors,
swarms of Heliopaths looted from the Minister’s secret office during the war.
There wasn’t even a trapdoor to drop people into a dark pit or reach an escape
tunnel. Or was there?”
He glanced at her. She was looking at him with wide, hopeful eyes. Harry hated
to disappoint her, but lying to her would be even worse. “I don’t think so.
You don’t usually find such things in a muggle flat.” Hermione might have a
secret way out of the flat, for emergencies, but that wasn’t something to
spread around. “Are you satisfied with how the interviews turned out?”
to disappoint her, but lying to her would be even worse. “I don’t think so.
You don’t usually find such things in a muggle flat.” Hermione might have a
secret way out of the flat, for emergencies, but that wasn’t something to
spread around. “Are you satisfied with how the interviews turned out?”
“They were a bit light on the information about magical creatures. Politics is
not usually a topic that interests the majority of our readers,” Luna said.
The witch didn’t seem to pay any attention to the patch of forest they were
walking through, but it was hard to tell.
not usually a topic that interests the majority of our readers,” Luna said.
The witch didn’t seem to pay any attention to the patch of forest they were
walking through, but it was hard to tell.
“Maybe not usually — but I think there’s a lot of interest in politics right
now,” Harry said.
now,” Harry said.
Luna sighed. “I guess so.”
Harry glanced at her. She looked concerned, even sad. A stark contrast to her
attitude during the interviews. Or to her attitude at school, where nothing
seemed to faze her. “You were quite calm and collected during the interview.”
It wasn’t quite a question. More of an opening.
attitude during the interviews. Or to her attitude at school, where nothing
seemed to faze her. “You were quite calm and collected during the interview.”
It wasn’t quite a question. More of an opening.
Luna nodded. “Daddy taught me that a good journalist will not influence the
interviewee. We’re reporting the news, we don’t make it. So I did my best not
to react.”
interviewee. We’re reporting the news, we don’t make it. So I did my best not
to react.”
“Ah.” That was a far more professional attitude than Harry had expected from
the Lovegoods, he thought with no small amount of shame.
the Lovegoods, he thought with no small amount of shame.
“But I am afraid of another war. So many have died already, and so many
friendships have been torn up by the war. Or prevented.” Luna took a deep
breath.
friendships have been torn up by the war. Or prevented.” Luna took a deep
breath.
Harry was glancing back at her, but then focused on a particularly dense patch
of underwood on their right side before he could tell if there were tears in
her eyes, or just a trick of the light. He should have waited to ask her until
they were safely back at Hogwarts, he thought. “But if we simply go back to
how things were before, then they will have died for nothing. We did that once
already, fifteen years ago.”
of underwood on their right side before he could tell if there were tears in
her eyes, or just a trick of the light. He should have waited to ask her until
they were safely back at Hogwarts, he thought. “But if we simply go back to
how things were before, then they will have died for nothing. We did that once
already, fifteen years ago.”
“You were a toddler back then,” Luna said. “And not active in politics.”
“Yes. I meant Britain, as a whole,” Harry explained.
“Isn’t trying to justify more deaths with previous deaths what revenge is
about?”
about?”
They were leaving the forest, and Harry kept looking at the sky now — a
disillusioned attacker on a fast broom could surprise him despite his spell,
if he was caught unawares. “It’s not exactly the same. It’s…” He sighed. “It’s
about preventing more deaths in the future. If we don’t change Britain, then
we’ll have a Third Blood War in ten or twenty years. The Dark Lord is dead,
but he was just part of the problem. The real problem is the belief in blood
purity. As long as the government sees muggleborns and half-bloods as being
worth less than purebloods we’ll always be just a step away from another war.
The muggleborns will not accept that. Not any more.”
disillusioned attacker on a fast broom could surprise him despite his spell,
if he was caught unawares. “It’s not exactly the same. It’s…” He sighed. “It’s
about preventing more deaths in the future. If we don’t change Britain, then
we’ll have a Third Blood War in ten or twenty years. The Dark Lord is dead,
but he was just part of the problem. The real problem is the belief in blood
purity. As long as the government sees muggleborns and half-bloods as being
worth less than purebloods we’ll always be just a step away from another war.
The muggleborns will not accept that. Not any more.”
“But are equal rights worth another war? Worth more deaths?”
Harry didn’t look at her when he answered. He didn’t want to see her reaction.
“Yes.”
They walked the rest of the way in silence.
---
**Hogwarts, February 5th, 1997**
Someone was waiting for them. Harry Potter could see a marker floating there
as Luna and he approached the side entrance to Hogwarts near the greenhouses.
They were inside Hogwarts’ wards, but even after the flight of the Slytherins
and the other blood purists, you couldn’t be certain that there were no
enemies left at school. And with Voldemort dead, some former allies might be
reconsidering their views of him.
as Luna and he approached the side entrance to Hogwarts near the greenhouses.
They were inside Hogwarts’ wards, but even after the flight of the Slytherins
and the other blood purists, you couldn’t be certain that there were no
enemies left at school. And with Voldemort dead, some former allies might be
reconsidering their views of him.
Luna was about to go on, but he held her back with a raised hand. “Maybe we
should take the main entrance.”
should take the main entrance.”
“What’s wrong?” Luna asked.
“Someone’s waiting for us.” Harry motioned with his head towards the door.
“Oh? Who is it?”
“I can’t tell from here.” He wasn’t pointing his wand at the door. Not yet.
“Maybe it’s a prefect. Or a teacher — we left Hogwarts without permission,
didn’t we?”
didn’t we?”
“That would be nice.” Though Harry was mentally going through the prefects he
knew. Could there be an enemy among them? The teachers should be safe, but
then again… he didn’t know all of them well, and who could tell which side
they’d pick, with both Dumbledore and Voldemort dead?
knew. Could there be an enemy among them? The teachers should be safe, but
then again… he didn’t know all of them well, and who could tell which side
they’d pick, with both Dumbledore and Voldemort dead?
“Why would it be nice? We’d get detention. And our houses would lose points.”
Luna made a humming noise. “Although we’re on school grounds now, so how would
they know that we were away? They might have searched the school, but we could
have been in the forest… no, that’d break a rule as well.”
Luna made a humming noise. “Although we’re on school grounds now, so how would
they know that we were away? They might have searched the school, but we could
have been in the forest… no, that’d break a rule as well.”
Harry didn’t give a damn about that. Reforming Wizarding Britain, preferably
without another war, was far more important than school rules. If the teachers
wanted to make a fuss he could always leave Hogwarts. But he didn’t want to
enter a fight and endanger Luna.
without another war, was far more important than school rules. If the teachers
wanted to make a fuss he could always leave Hogwarts. But he didn’t want to
enter a fight and endanger Luna.
Before they could leave, though, the door was opened from the inside, and a
figure peered out. Harry recognised her just before his wand was pointing at
her. Ginny. She must have used the map, he realised, to find them.
figure peered out. Harry recognised her just before his wand was pointing at
her. Ginny. She must have used the map, he realised, to find them.
“What are you waiting for? Get inside before a teacher spots you!” She waved
at them.
at them.
Harry hesitated another second — she could be an impostor, or under a spell,
Moody would say — but Luna was already moving, so he followed her.
Moody would say — but Luna was already moving, so he followed her.
“How did it go?” Ginny asked as soon as they were inside.
Harry recalled that she had been very interested in the interviews as soon as
she had heard of them. He cast a privacy spell just in time — Luna was already
talking.
she had heard of them. He cast a privacy spell just in time — Luna was already
talking.
“Hermione’s lair was not very impressive, visually at least. Although the high
muggle content might be scary for some purebloods. I didn’t get to see the
dungeons, for security reasons, I suppose. She also faked ignorance about the
Rotfang Conspiracy. I think she didn’t trust me with her knowledge.” Luna
shook her head with a sad expression. “I was disappointed, though, that she
didn’t reveal much about the changes she is going through as she transforms
into a new magical creature. In fact, she said I’m not to print anything about
that until the changes were complete.”
muggle content might be scary for some purebloods. I didn’t get to see the
dungeons, for security reasons, I suppose. She also faked ignorance about the
Rotfang Conspiracy. I think she didn’t trust me with her knowledge.” Luna
shook her head with a sad expression. “I was disappointed, though, that she
didn’t reveal much about the changes she is going through as she transforms
into a new magical creature. In fact, she said I’m not to print anything about
that until the changes were complete.”
Ginny raised both eyebrows at Harry, who shrugged. Hermione hadn’t exactly
said that, but as long as there was no article describing her as a creature,
dark or otherwise…
said that, but as long as there was no article describing her as a creature,
dark or otherwise…
“It was mostly about politics,” Luna finished, pouting. “And most of it is
already known from the wireless broadcasts.”
already known from the wireless broadcasts.”
“I haven’t been on the wireless,” Harry pointed out.
Luna nodded. “I suppose that’s true. And while people wrote and talked a lot
about you, you haven’t been interviewed yet. Not by a competent and honest
journalist, at least. And neither has Hermione.” She perked up. ‘That’s two
scoops for The Quibbler!’ Wrinkling her nose, she added: “It might be three,
if I could interview Ron.”
about you, you haven’t been interviewed yet. Not by a competent and honest
journalist, at least. And neither has Hermione.” She perked up. ‘That’s two
scoops for The Quibbler!’ Wrinkling her nose, she added: “It might be three,
if I could interview Ron.”
“Ron?” Ginny looked surprised.
“Yes. He’s Hermione’s boyfriend — or would that be mate?” Luna cocked her head
sideways, nibbling on her lip while she seemed to consider that.
sideways, nibbling on her lip while she seemed to consider that.
“He always says that he is Harry’s best mate,” Ginny said.
She sounded earnest, but when Harry shot her a glare, she giggled.
Luna’s head whipped around, staring at him. “Really?”
“He means ‘best friend’,” Harry clarified.
“Oh.” Luna pouted. “That makes more sense.”
Harry wasn’t quite certain if he liked hearing Luna say that.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 7th, 1997**
“Mister Thicknesse to see you, Ma’am.”
“Thank you.”
Pius looked concerned, Amelia Bones thought when she saw him enter her office.
At least he looked more tense than usual — the man was good, maybe too good,
at hiding his emotions.
At least he looked more tense than usual — the man was good, maybe too good,
at hiding his emotions.
“Granger’s making her move,” he said, putting down a magazine on her desk.
“The Quibbler?” Amelia raised an eyebrow.
“Granger and Potter gave interviews to Lovegood’s daughter.”
Amelia frowned. That wasn’t a periodical so much as a collection of delusions.
Most who had a subscription probably read it for laughs. The muggleborns had
to be desperate if they were stooping that low. But then again, it would let
them reach more people than with their leaflets, or their wireless broadcasts
— which, she reminded herself, were illegal. And far too many would buy this
issue just to read what the Boy-Who-Lived had to say.
Most who had a subscription probably read it for laughs. The muggleborns had
to be desperate if they were stooping that low. But then again, it would let
them reach more people than with their leaflets, or their wireless broadcasts
— which, she reminded herself, were illegal. And far too many would buy this
issue just to read what the Boy-Who-Lived had to say.
She skimmed over an article on imaginary animals — including an Australian
chimera made up of a beaver, a duck, and a venomous snake which Lovegood
claimed was breeding true by laying eggs — and several outrageous rumours
until she reached the interviews.
chimera made up of a beaver, a duck, and a venomous snake which Lovegood
claimed was breeding true by laying eggs — and several outrageous rumours
until she reached the interviews.
They weren’t overly long, but their contents… She was livid when she put down
the magazine, but she tried not to show it when she looked at Pius. That
cursed muggleborn was all but calling for a revolution, and Potter was
threatening war should the Wizengamot and the Ministry not cave in and
surrender. They wanted to rule Britain, just like the Dark Lord had wanted to!
At least Dumbledore, for all his radical notions, had not tried to raze
Wizarding Britain’s institutions and traditions.
the magazine, but she tried not to show it when she looked at Pius. That
cursed muggleborn was all but calling for a revolution, and Potter was
threatening war should the Wizengamot and the Ministry not cave in and
surrender. They wanted to rule Britain, just like the Dark Lord had wanted to!
At least Dumbledore, for all his radical notions, had not tried to raze
Wizarding Britain’s institutions and traditions.
“It seems our strategy to credit Potter with the lion’s share of Voldemort’s
defeat has backfired,” he said. “We counted on the fact that the Daily Prophet
wouldn’t print anything seditious, and that most people wouldn’t listen to the
Resistance broadcasts.” He was talking as if it was their fault, but Amelia
knew that she’d be the one blamed. And so did he. He wasn’t wrong, though —
they were facing a serious threat.
defeat has backfired,” he said. “We counted on the fact that the Daily Prophet
wouldn’t print anything seditious, and that most people wouldn’t listen to the
Resistance broadcasts.” He was talking as if it was their fault, but Amelia
knew that she’d be the one blamed. And so did he. He wasn’t wrong, though —
they were facing a serious threat.
She nodded. “With Potter’s support, Granger’s proposal will garner a much
better reception than anticipated among the half-bloods and the purebloods.”
Amelia didn’t think that the economic clout of the Old Families would be
enough to counter that. Not after a bloody war. Too many of the ambitious
purebloods who were too distantly related to the Old Families to be counted
among them would see an opportunity to raise their status. And the half-bloods
were always a potential source of unrest — many of them were too close to
their muggleborn or muggle relatives, and their muggle ideas.
better reception than anticipated among the half-bloods and the purebloods.”
Amelia didn’t think that the economic clout of the Old Families would be
enough to counter that. Not after a bloody war. Too many of the ambitious
purebloods who were too distantly related to the Old Families to be counted
among them would see an opportunity to raise their status. And the half-bloods
were always a potential source of unrest — many of them were too close to
their muggleborn or muggle relatives, and their muggle ideas.
“It’s a problem, but not an insurmountable one. We’ve already emphasised just
how young Potter is,” Pius said, smiling thinly. “And everyone knows that
young wizards lose all sense when they are in love.”
how young Potter is,” Pius said, smiling thinly. “And everyone knows that
young wizards lose all sense when they are in love.”
“Granger’s with one of Arthur’s kids, not Potter,” Amelia retorted. Susan had
been quite clear about that.
been quite clear about that.
But Pius knew how to play politics. “It’s also known that muggleborn witches
are very free with their affections. Granger is notorious for seducing
important wizards, isn’t she?” His smile widened a tiny bit.
are very free with their affections. Granger is notorious for seducing
important wizards, isn’t she?” His smile widened a tiny bit.
Amelia knew that he was referring to that article by Rita Skeeter during the
Triwizard Tournament. There had been rumours about love potions being used as
well. It wouldn’t do that much to damage Granger’s reputation — anyone who
didn’t loathe her for her murders would not care about other moral failures —
but Potter’s credibility would suffer. She nodded. “Talk to the Prophet. See
if Skeeter might reconsider her refusal to write about Granger.” That witch
was odious, but she was the best the Prophet had when it came to tearing down
famous people.
Triwizard Tournament. There had been rumours about love potions being used as
well. It wouldn’t do that much to damage Granger’s reputation — anyone who
didn’t loathe her for her murders would not care about other moral failures —
but Potter’s credibility would suffer. She nodded. “Talk to the Prophet. See
if Skeeter might reconsider her refusal to write about Granger.” That witch
was odious, but she was the best the Prophet had when it came to tearing down
famous people.
“We’ll need to focus on Granger, and make Potter out to be the victim
manipulated by her. If we attack Potter some will want to defend him, but if
we act as if we want to save him from Granger’s influence…” Pius’s smile was
showing his teeth now.
manipulated by her. If we attack Potter some will want to defend him, but if
we act as if we want to save him from Granger’s influence…” Pius’s smile was
showing his teeth now.
“We’ll need to shut down those broadcasts too.” Amelia might not be the
politician Pius was, but she knew that they needed to keep the muggleborns and
their misguided allies from poisoning the minds of the population.
politician Pius was, but she knew that they needed to keep the muggleborns and
their misguided allies from poisoning the minds of the population.
“That might be difficult. We weren’t able to stop them during the war, after
all. I contacted the Obliviators, but they said that since Granger’s using the
same channels the Wizarding Wireless Network is using, the Statute of Secrecy
is not endangered.” Pius sighed.
all. I contacted the Obliviators, but they said that since Granger’s using the
same channels the Wizarding Wireless Network is using, the Statute of Secrecy
is not endangered.” Pius sighed.
Amelia stared at him. “Be glad about that. The ICW is already pressuring us.
If they had the slightest notion that we were facing a threat to the Statute…”
She shook her head. So far, the ICW’s attempts to meddle in Britain had been
limited — they had no mandate to intervene in the internal affairs of a
Magical Country. Threats to the International Statute of Secrecy, on the other
hand, fell within the ICW’s purview. And Amelia really didn’t want any
foreigners ‘helping to rebuild’ Britain. Too many countries had been bullied
by Dumbledore and were looking to pay Britain back.
If they had the slightest notion that we were facing a threat to the Statute…”
She shook her head. So far, the ICW’s attempts to meddle in Britain had been
limited — they had no mandate to intervene in the internal affairs of a
Magical Country. Threats to the International Statute of Secrecy, on the other
hand, fell within the ICW’s purview. And Amelia really didn’t want any
foreigners ‘helping to rebuild’ Britain. Too many countries had been bullied
by Dumbledore and were looking to pay Britain back.
Pius nodded. He looked chastised, but Amelia couldn’t help wondering if he had
counted on the ICW increasing its pressure — and her getting blamed for it.
“We’ll call on the Resistance to stop their illegal broadcasting, and to apply
for a license.” If they sent in an application, it would take a long time to
be processed, given the current state of the Ministry. And if they didn’t, the
muggleborns would reveal their contempt for the law.
counted on the ICW increasing its pressure — and her getting blamed for it.
“We’ll call on the Resistance to stop their illegal broadcasting, and to apply
for a license.” If they sent in an application, it would take a long time to
be processed, given the current state of the Ministry. And if they didn’t, the
muggleborns would reveal their contempt for the law.
Not that they hadn’t done so already in those interviews, of course. “We’ll
also push them to release the prisoners they have taken during the war into
our custody so they can be tried.” Nott, Davis and Greengrass were still
alive, according to their families.
also push them to release the prisoners they have taken during the war into
our custody so they can be tried.” Nott, Davis and Greengrass were still
alive, according to their families.
“That might cause the muggleborns to kill them, and claim they tried to
escape,” Pius said.
escape,” Pius said.
“Either way, the Resistance will lose its leverage over those families,”
Amelia said. She didn’t care much about them — they had been fighting for the
Dark Lord, after all.
Amelia said. She didn’t care much about them — they had been fighting for the
Dark Lord, after all.
Pius nodded. “They will be publicly associated with Death Eaters, though,
which will weaken their influence.”
which will weaken their influence.”
That wasn’t a bad thing, as far as Amelia was concerned.
Once Pius had left, she leaned back in her chair and closed her eyes. She had
sworn to defend Britain against all threats, and to uphold the law. It seemed
that those two goals had come into conflict with each other.
sworn to defend Britain against all threats, and to uphold the law. It seemed
that those two goals had come into conflict with each other.
---
**Hogsmeade, February 8th, 1997**
Hogsmeade’s cemetery was bigger than the spot of land it occupied, Harry
Potter noticed when he entered through the wrought-iron gate. The small lot
between the old church and the temple expanded into a wide field covered with
various tombstones and statuary, and several crypts. Even after almost six
years spent at Hogwarts, seeing such magic still surprised him.
Potter noticed when he entered through the wrought-iron gate. The small lot
between the old church and the temple expanded into a wide field covered with
various tombstones and statuary, and several crypts. Even after almost six
years spent at Hogwarts, seeing such magic still surprised him.
Passing so many fresh graves on the way to the open grave at the back was a
sobering sight. Even counting the fact that many wizards and witches who
didn’t live in Hogsmeade chose to be interred here instead of in muggle
cemeteries, it showed just how devastating the war had been, for all that it
hadn’t been waged for even a year.
sobering sight. Even counting the fact that many wizards and witches who
didn’t live in Hogsmeade chose to be interred here instead of in muggle
cemeteries, it showed just how devastating the war had been, for all that it
hadn’t been waged for even a year.
For a moment, Harry doubted himself. Could he really risk another war, knowing
its cost? Could he cause more death and destruction, even if it was for a good
cause? While the houses destroyed in the attacks on Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley
had yet to be rebuilt?
its cost? Could he cause more death and destruction, even if it was for a good
cause? While the houses destroyed in the attacks on Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley
had yet to be rebuilt?
He shook his head. Hermione was correct — they had to push on, to turn this
into 1945, instead of 1918. If the Ministry and Wizengamot were left in power,
then it would just be a question of time until the next war started. Too much
had happened, and yet too little — neither side could tolerate the current
situation.
into 1945, instead of 1918. If the Ministry and Wizengamot were left in power,
then it would just be a question of time until the next war started. Too much
had happened, and yet too little — neither side could tolerate the current
situation.
“There aren’t many mourners,” Harry commented, mostly to say something.
“Yes.” Neville, who had insisted on coming as well, even though he hadn’t
known the real Moody for longer than a few lessons, shrugged. “But any funeral
needs to have at least seven people in attendance, or it’s not decent. One to
give the eulogy, six to levitate the casket.”
known the real Moody for longer than a few lessons, shrugged. “But any funeral
needs to have at least seven people in attendance, or it’s not decent. One to
give the eulogy, six to levitate the casket.”
“Moody hadn’t many friends left,” Sirius, walking behind them, Vivienne at his
side, said. “He lost most of them in the first war, and after the war he
didn’t make many new ones.”
side, said. “He lost most of them in the first war, and after the war he
didn’t make many new ones.”
His godfather didn’t have to tell him why — Harry had been trained by the old
Auror, after all. “And most of those he had trained were killed in this war,”
Harry added. It felt weird to talk about the war as if it was over, knowing
that it could restart any day, should the Wizengamot or the Ministry do
something foolish.
Auror, after all. “And most of those he had trained were killed in this war,”
Harry added. It felt weird to talk about the war as if it was over, knowing
that it could restart any day, should the Wizengamot or the Ministry do
something foolish.
Such as attacking a funeral, he thought. He wished that Hermione were there as
well, but she hadn’t really known Moody and was with Ron, who was still stuck
in the hospital. He spotted a red robe — an Auror — in the small gathering
around the casket — closed, of course — as they stepped closer. Tonks.
well, but she hadn’t really known Moody and was with Ron, who was still stuck
in the hospital. He spotted a red robe — an Auror — in the small gathering
around the casket — closed, of course — as they stepped closer. Tonks.
The metamorphmagus was talking to a middle-aged wizard, who Harry didn’t
recognise, next to a familiar-looking older wizard. He also noticed Aberforth,
standing apart from the others, and a shady looking wizard on the other side.
recognise, next to a familiar-looking older wizard. He also noticed Aberforth,
standing apart from the others, and a shady looking wizard on the other side.
“Elphias. Nymphadora.” Sirius nodded at the two, then looked at the wizard.
Tonks had narrowed her eyes, probably at hearing her given name, but then
flushed. “This is Auror Cyril Selwyn. Cyril, this is Sirius Black. You know
Harry Potter. Neville Longbottom. And this is Vivienne d’Aigle.” They shook
hands. “He’s the only other trainee of Moody’s who made it through the war,”
Tonks explained.
flushed. “This is Auror Cyril Selwyn. Cyril, this is Sirius Black. You know
Harry Potter. Neville Longbottom. And this is Vivienne d’Aigle.” They shook
hands. “He’s the only other trainee of Moody’s who made it through the war,”
Tonks explained.
“And only because I was cursed early on, and missed most of the fighting,”
Selwyn said, chuckling briefly.
Selwyn said, chuckling briefly.
Sirius nodded in a polite, but distant manner. Selwyn wasn’t an Order member,
then. Harry excused himself and went over to Aberforth.
then. Harry excused himself and went over to Aberforth.
“Potter,” the old wizard grumbled before Harry could greet him.
“Mister Dumbledore.”
“Call me Abe. Albus was Mister Dumbledore. Until he was the Headmaster.”
Harry nodded. “Not many mourners,” he said.
“Even fewer than you think,” Aberforth said, snorting. “I’m just here to pay
my respects since he was killed fighting at my side, but I certainly don’t
mourn the bastard. And Fletcher over there is probably just here to be certain
that Moody’s truly dead. He’s been arrested a few times by him, and never too
gently.”
my respects since he was killed fighting at my side, but I certainly don’t
mourn the bastard. And Fletcher over there is probably just here to be certain
that Moody’s truly dead. He’s been arrested a few times by him, and never too
gently.”
“Ah.” Harry didn’t know how to comment on that. He was not privy to the
reasons for the hatred between Moody and Aberforth, and he didn’t want to
start a row or rant by saying the wrong thing. So he nodded and returned to
Sirius’s side.
reasons for the hatred between Moody and Aberforth, and he didn’t want to
start a row or rant by saying the wrong thing. So he nodded and returned to
Sirius’s side.
Tonks was reading a scroll of parchment, mumbling under her breath. Harry
looked at his godfather and raised an eyebrow.
looked at his godfather and raised an eyebrow.
Sirius shrugged. “She’s been picked to say a few words since Moody didn’t want
a priest at his funeral.”
a priest at his funeral.”
“It’s a tradition in the Corps that the duties no one wants go to the youngest
Aurors,” Selwyn added. “And since I have seniority on her…” He chuckled again.
Harry was starting dislike the man.
Aurors,” Selwyn added. “And since I have seniority on her…” He chuckled again.
Harry was starting dislike the man.
Fortunately, it was time to start the ceremony, so Harry didn’t have to make
polite conversation with the man.
polite conversation with the man.
“We have gathered here to pay our respects to Alastor Moody, known among his
friends and acquaintances as ‘Mad-Eye’,” Tonks started her eulogy. She briefly
covered his career, and his exploits in the last war, then finished with: “He
gave his life fighting the Dark Lord, undoubtedly saving others. May he
finally be able to rest in peace.”
friends and acquaintances as ‘Mad-Eye’,” Tonks started her eulogy. She briefly
covered his career, and his exploits in the last war, then finished with: “He
gave his life fighting the Dark Lord, undoubtedly saving others. May he
finally be able to rest in peace.”
Harry had expected a better speech, something more personal — but then, this
was Moody. The Headmaster had probably been the last person who had really
known him.
was Moody. The Headmaster had probably been the last person who had really
known him.
He drew his wand together with the others — not counting Aberforth and
Fletcher, they had just the right number for the ceremony — and pointed it at
the casket.
Fletcher, they had just the right number for the ceremony — and pointed it at
the casket.
“Wingardium Leviosa.”
The casket floated up, trembling slightly due to the six different spells
affecting it, and then was lowered into the ground. Tonks mumbled something,
then used her wand to fill the grave with earth.
affecting it, and then was lowered into the ground. Tonks mumbled something,
then used her wand to fill the grave with earth.
As funerals went, this was one of the saddest Harry had attended. As morbid as
the thought was, he really hoped that when he died, he wouldn’t be as lonely
and isolated as Moody had been.
the thought was, he really hoped that when he died, he wouldn’t be as lonely
and isolated as Moody had been.
Tonks walked with them on the way out of the cemetery. “Merlin’s balls! That
was horrible!” she complained.
was horrible!” she complained.
“You were the one in charge,” Sirius said.
Tonks glared at him, but didn’t retort. She sighed instead, then looked at
Harry. “I’ve read The Quibbler.”
Harry. “I’ve read The Quibbler.”
Harry tensed slightly. “Yes?”
“Are you really willing to go to war?”
Harry rolled his eyes. He had said so in the interview; why was everyone
asking the same question? It had been bad enough at Hogwarts. At least Neville
hadn’t mentioned it — though that might not be a good sign, now that he
thought about it. “I wouldn’t have said it if it wasn’t true.”
asking the same question? It had been bad enough at Hogwarts. At least Neville
hadn’t mentioned it — though that might not be a good sign, now that he
thought about it. “I wouldn’t have said it if it wasn’t true.”
“But…” Tonks hesitated.
Harry sighed. “It’s quite simple: We won’t accept any rule based on blood
status. All wizards and witches are equal, and should have an equal vote in
how our country is run.”
status. All wizards and witches are equal, and should have an equal vote in
how our country is run.”
“But the Dark Lord is dead, his followers fled, and the Muggleborn Laws were
repealed,” Tonks said. Her lips were trembling, Harry noted.
repealed,” Tonks said. Her lips were trembling, Harry noted.
“And yet the same people who passed those laws are still in power,” he said.
“Well, not the exact same people — Hermione blew up a lot of them, and we
killed a few more during the war,” Sirius cut in, grinning coldly. Then he
glanced at Neville, and flinched.
killed a few more during the war,” Sirius cut in, grinning coldly. Then he
glanced at Neville, and flinched.
Neville seemed to ignore Sirius’s comment, though he wasn’t looking at any of
them. “I wouldn’t mind losing my seat on the Wizengamot. It hasn’t done me or
my family any good.”
them. “I wouldn’t mind losing my seat on the Wizengamot. It hasn’t done me or
my family any good.”
Tonks didn’t give up. “And how democratic is it to fight a war to change the
system?”
system?”
“A war is the last resort. We hope that the Wizengamot will see reason.” At
least Harry did — he wasn’t quite certain if Sirius shared his views.
least Harry did — he wasn’t quite certain if Sirius shared his views.
“Fat chance of that,” Tonks mumbled. “Hasn’t there been enough death?”
“That’s a question you have to ask the Minister, and the Wizengamot,” Sirius
said. “Though I think it’s telling that neither Bones nor anyone from the
Wizengamot showed up today.”
said. “Though I think it’s telling that neither Bones nor anyone from the
Wizengamot showed up today.”
Tonks flinched, but then schooled her features. “They’ll say that it’s you who
need to see reason to avoid a war.”
need to see reason to avoid a war.”
Sirius scoffed. “They’re fools. Even if Hermione gave in, and accepted
pureblood rule, do you think the rest of the muggleborns would follow her
lead? I doubt that even the rest of the Resistance would follow her lead, if
she did that.” He shook his head. “No, the Ministry and the Wizengamot are the
only ones who can avoid a war now.”
pureblood rule, do you think the rest of the muggleborns would follow her
lead? I doubt that even the rest of the Resistance would follow her lead, if
she did that.” He shook his head. “No, the Ministry and the Wizengamot are the
only ones who can avoid a war now.”
He didn’t have to say that they could only do so by giving in to the demands
of the muggleborns.
of the muggleborns.
Tonks muttered a curse under her breath. “We’re doomed then.”
Harry hoped that she was wrong.
---
**London, Greenwich, February 8th, 1997**
“Merlin! Those muggle doctors were worse than Pomfrey! I thought they wanted
to keep me there for a month!”
to keep me there for a month!”
Hermione Granger chuckled at Ron’s exclamation. “The longer you stay, the more
the hospital gets paid,” she said, flagging down a cab.
the hospital gets paid,” she said, flagging down a cab.
“What?” He turned to stare at her with his mouth open. “Don’t they get a fixed
salary like in St Mungo’s?”
salary like in St Mungo’s?”
“The staff probably does, but the hospital gets paid by the patients.” She
didn’t want to delve into the details of private health insurance and the NHS.
didn’t want to delve into the details of private health insurance and the NHS.
“But…” He blinked. “Sirius paid for it, didn’t he?”
“Yes.”
“First the broom, now this…” Ron sighed, then held his side, wincing.
Hermione gasped. “Are you alright?” It was a silly question — he was obviously
in pain. She pressed her lips together. She shouldn’t have helped him get
released, no matter how much he, and she, wanted it.
in pain. She pressed her lips together. She shouldn’t have helped him get
released, no matter how much he, and she, wanted it.
“I’m fi… I’m alright. Just a bit of pain. I’ve had worse.”
She glared at him, but he kept smiling at her, and then a cab stopped, and she
couldn’t argue further. Hermione noticed that he did wince again, though, as
he was getting into the car. “I should tell the driver to turn around and take
you back to the hospital.”
couldn’t argue further. Hermione noticed that he did wince again, though, as
he was getting into the car. “I should tell the driver to turn around and take
you back to the hospital.”
“I’ll manage. I’m not going back to Hogwarts yet, so I’ll be able to recover
at Grimmauld Place for another week or two.” He slowly wrapped an arm around
her — she was sitting on his good side. “I don’t know m… this part of London
very well, but we’re not going to Grimmauld Place, are we?”
at Grimmauld Place for another week or two.” He slowly wrapped an arm around
her — she was sitting on his good side. “I don’t know m… this part of London
very well, but we’re not going to Grimmauld Place, are we?”
“No. I’ve made reservations at a restaurant for dinner.” She sighed. “But I
should cancel. You need more rest than you said.”
should cancel. You need more rest than you said.”
He shook his head wildly. “Certainly not! The doctors might have been
competent, but the food…”
competent, but the food…”
“Alright.” Hermione sighed, then laid her head on his shoulder, taking a deep
breath, smelling him, feeling his warmth.
breath, smelling him, feeling his warmth.
As selfish and stupid as it was, given his wound, she really wanted to have
dinner with him. Just the two of them. With no talk of war.
dinner with him. Just the two of them. With no talk of war.
---
**London, East End, February 8th, 1997**
It was almost midnight when Hermione Granger reached the Resistance’s home,
but judging by the lights and what she could hear, most of her friends were
still up.
but judging by the lights and what she could hear, most of her friends were
still up.
“There you are!” to her surprise, Seamus greeted her in the hallway with a
wide smile. He was carrying a pack of beers, so he had probably just come from
the kitchen. ‘We’ve been waiting for you!’ He grinned at her. “You didn’t do
anything with Ron that made his wound worse?”
wide smile. He was carrying a pack of beers, so he had probably just come from
the kitchen. ‘We’ve been waiting for you!’ He grinned at her. “You didn’t do
anything with Ron that made his wound worse?”
She knew what he meant, even though he was technically correct — Ron had been
in more pain after the dinner, although he had tried to hide it. So she shook
her head. “No.” She almost added something about not wanting to see Ron bleed,
but Seamus would make horrible and tasteless jokes about such a slip. “We just
had dinner.”
in more pain after the dinner, although he had tried to hide it. So she shook
her head. “No.” She almost added something about not wanting to see Ron bleed,
but Seamus would make horrible and tasteless jokes about such a slip. “We just
had dinner.”
“Ah!” He sighed in an exaggerated manner. “Come to the living room! We’ve got
good news!”
good news!”
“Oh?” What had she missed?
“Tania and I were in Diagon Alley this afternoon, distributing more leaflets,
when we noticed a dispute. Witch in normal clothes was having a screaming row
with a man in robes, so we took a closer look. Turns out the witch was Camille
Linnecker, a muggleborn who wanted her shop back from the pureblood who had
bought it for a pittance when she had been forced to hide. The idiot fled
quickly when we showed up, though!”
when we noticed a dispute. Witch in normal clothes was having a screaming row
with a man in robes, so we took a closer look. Turns out the witch was Camille
Linnecker, a muggleborn who wanted her shop back from the pureblood who had
bought it for a pittance when she had been forced to hide. The idiot fled
quickly when we showed up, though!”
Hermione clenched her teeth to avoid an outburst.
Seamus didn’t seem to notice as we went on: “She won’t be the only one to
return, either — after the interviews and the broadcast, and the e-mails, most
should now know that the war’s over and we’ve won! The Ministry’ll cave as
well!”
return, either — after the interviews and the broadcast, and the e-mails, most
should now know that the war’s over and we’ve won! The Ministry’ll cave as
well!”
“Let’s hope so,” Hermione said. She smiled when she greeted the rest of the
Resistance, even though she felt like cursing. That kind of scene could cause
a lot of trouble in the current climate. But she wasn’t about to ruin her
friends’ mood.
Resistance, even though she felt like cursing. That kind of scene could cause
a lot of trouble in the current climate. But she wasn’t about to ruin her
friends’ mood.
---
**Hogwarts, February 9th, 1997**
Ron Weasley was walking slowly through the gates of Hogwarts — his wound
hadn’t fully healed yet. The stitches were still in, even — he could feel them
when he moved, he was certain, even though the muggle doctors had told him
that it was just his imagination. But he couldn’t have stayed a day longer in
the hospital. He couldn’t miss this. Dumbledore’s funeral.
hadn’t fully healed yet. The stitches were still in, even — he could feel them
when he moved, he was certain, even though the muggle doctors had told him
that it was just his imagination. But he couldn’t have stayed a day longer in
the hospital. He couldn’t miss this. Dumbledore’s funeral.
“Tell me at once if you can’t handle it any more,” Hermione whispered next to
him. She had her arm hooked into his, allowing him to lean on her.
him. She had her arm hooked into his, allowing him to lean on her.
Ron nodded, though he was determined to tough it out. He owed it to the
Headmaster. They all did.
Headmaster. They all did.
“I mean it. Your health is more important!” she hissed. In a softer voice, she
added: “Please.”
added: “Please.”
“I promise,” he said, feeling guilty. But he had missed Moody’s funeral
already. And he didn’t want to know what rumours would start if he left in the
middle of this one. He heard Harry snort, and glanced at his friend walking on
his other side.
already. And he didn’t want to know what rumours would start if he left in the
middle of this one. He heard Harry snort, and glanced at his friend walking on
his other side.
“Better you than me,” Harry whispered, with a grin.
They slowly walked over to the fields overlooking the Black Lake. Ron had
heard that the Ministry had wanted to erect a statue, maybe even a mausoleum,
but Dumbledore had been quite clear in the instructions he had left. A modest
tombstone, a plain grave. Ron also knew about the secret instructions —
Dumbledore had wanted his body cremated and the ashes vanished, so there
wouldn’t be any remains left that could be used for dark rituals. The ashes in
the urn were actually from Fawkes’ last burning day.
heard that the Ministry had wanted to erect a statue, maybe even a mausoleum,
but Dumbledore had been quite clear in the instructions he had left. A modest
tombstone, a plain grave. Ron also knew about the secret instructions —
Dumbledore had wanted his body cremated and the ashes vanished, so there
wouldn’t be any remains left that could be used for dark rituals. The ashes in
the urn were actually from Fawkes’ last burning day.
The area was packed, all of the students and what looked like most of
Wizarding Britain had gathered to pay their respect to the great Dumbledore.
If not for the wards of Hogwarts, security would be impossible. And even so,
they had delayed the funeral until the war had been over, and just about every
Auror and Hit-Wizard the Ministry had left was here. A fact that didn’t make
Ron feel as safe as others would expect. Part of the reason all of them had
cast Shield Charms.
Wizarding Britain had gathered to pay their respect to the great Dumbledore.
If not for the wards of Hogwarts, security would be impossible. And even so,
they had delayed the funeral until the war had been over, and just about every
Auror and Hit-Wizard the Ministry had left was here. A fact that didn’t make
Ron feel as safe as others would expect. Part of the reason all of them had
cast Shield Charms.
“Where’s Hagrid?” he asked in a low voice. The half-giant should have been
easily visible in the crowd.
easily visible in the crowd.
“He’s in the forest with the centaurs,” Hermione answered in an equally low
voice. “They and the merpeople wanted to pay their respects as well.”
voice. “They and the merpeople wanted to pay their respects as well.”
“Ah.” Ron nodded. That made sense — Dumbledore had done a lot for the magical
beings as well.
beings as well.
They had seats in the first row assigned to them, once again on Dumbledore’s
instructions, and people parted to let them pass. They also whispered a lot.
About Harry, about Hermione, and about himself. And probably their
relationship. By the time they reached their seats, Ron was not just tired,
but annoyed as well.
instructions, and people parted to let them pass. They also whispered a lot.
About Harry, about Hermione, and about himself. And probably their
relationship. By the time they reached their seats, Ron was not just tired,
but annoyed as well.
“Welcome to fame,” Harry said, taking his own seat. Both of them were subtly
casting a few spells to check for traps and curses while Hermione put down a
few transparent walls around them — they wouldn’t last long, but they’d stop
curses long enough for them to react.
casting a few spells to check for traps and curses while Hermione put down a
few transparent walls around them — they wouldn’t last long, but they’d stop
curses long enough for them to react.
“It’s like sitting in a glasshouse,” Harry whispered, “even literally.”
Hermione huffed, but she didn’t seem to be angry. At least not at Harry or
Ron.
Ron.
He sighed and turned to Harry. “Mate, remember how I was jealous of your
fame?”
fame?”
“Yes?”
“I should have known better,” Ron said, “and appreciated what I had.”
“The fame we have also allows us to influence Britain. A bit of unwelcome
attention is a small price to pay for that,” Hermione said. “It’s better to be
stared at and gossiped about than to be cursed.”
attention is a small price to pay for that,” Hermione said. “It’s better to be
stared at and gossiped about than to be cursed.”
She wasn’t wrong. Ron chuckled, then fought not to wince when he felt his side
hurt.
hurt.
“Ron? Are you alright?”
Of course, Hermione hadn’t missed that. He shook his head when she leaned over
in an attempt to check up on him. “It’s OK. I’m not bleeding.”
in an attempt to check up on him. “It’s OK. I’m not bleeding.”
She huffed, but relented. He distracted himself by studying the other guests
of honour. There was his own family and the other surviving Order members, at
least those he knew, which were not too many. The entire staff of Hogwarts.
And the delegation from the Ministry and the Wizengamot. Who didn’t look happy
to be here. Not that people should look happy at a funeral, of course. But
Bones looked like she wanted to curse the tombstone. And the glare she leveled
at Ron and his friends…
of honour. There was his own family and the other surviving Order members, at
least those he knew, which were not too many. The entire staff of Hogwarts.
And the delegation from the Ministry and the Wizengamot. Who didn’t look happy
to be here. Not that people should look happy at a funeral, of course. But
Bones looked like she wanted to curse the tombstone. And the glare she leveled
at Ron and his friends…
“We might keep an eye on Luna and her father,” Ron said. “In case the Ministry
wants to punish them for helping us.”
wants to punish them for helping us.”
“We’re on it,” Harry said. “Luna’s usually with Ginny or me at Hogwarts.”
“And we’re in contact with her father,” Hermione added, ‘If anyone attacks
him, we can move very quickly. Although,’ she went on, “I think the Ministry
will try to hassle them rather than directly hurt them.”
him, we can move very quickly. Although,’ she went on, “I think the Ministry
will try to hassle them rather than directly hurt them.”
Ron nodded, then realised that he was already thinking the worst of the
Ministry. That wasn’t a good sign for the future.
Ministry. That wasn’t a good sign for the future.
---
An hour into the funeral ceremony, Harry Potter had found a new appreciation
for short, impersonal speeches like Tonks’s at Moody’s funeral. McGonagall’s
speech had been good — touching, honest, and not overly long. But Philius
Runcorn, the acting Chief Warlock… Harry didn’t think even a single word of
the praise the man had heaped on Dumbledore had been honest. And the man had
gone on and on and on, in a manner that made Binns’s lessons about Goblin
Rebellions sound exciting. Bones’s speech hadn’t been much better, but had at
least been shorter.
for short, impersonal speeches like Tonks’s at Moody’s funeral. McGonagall’s
speech had been good — touching, honest, and not overly long. But Philius
Runcorn, the acting Chief Warlock… Harry didn’t think even a single word of
the praise the man had heaped on Dumbledore had been honest. And the man had
gone on and on and on, in a manner that made Binns’s lessons about Goblin
Rebellions sound exciting. Bones’s speech hadn’t been much better, but had at
least been shorter.
The only good thing about this ordeal was that Harry was too bored to be
nervous about his own upcoming speech — he would be speaking after the Supreme
Mugwump, a wizard from one of the Princely States of India whose name Harry
had already forgotten again, together with most of his speech about
Dumbledore’s international career.
nervous about his own upcoming speech — he would be speaking after the Supreme
Mugwump, a wizard from one of the Princely States of India whose name Harry
had already forgotten again, together with most of his speech about
Dumbledore’s international career.
Then, finally, it was his turn. He stood up and walked to small pedestal
behind the urn.
behind the urn.
When he saw the sea of people watching him, he felt nervous again. But he
couldn’t show such weakness, or people would be more likely to dismiss his
words about Wizarding Britain’s need for reform. “Albus Dumbledore was a great
Wizard,” he began. “Like many of us, I knew him as the Headmaster of Hogwarts.
I think I am not wrong when I say that for many of us, he was a part of
Hogwarts, like the Great Hall. Maybe he even was Hogwarts — old, friendly,
full of knowledge and lessons, and more than a bit quirky.
couldn’t show such weakness, or people would be more likely to dismiss his
words about Wizarding Britain’s need for reform. “Albus Dumbledore was a great
Wizard,” he began. “Like many of us, I knew him as the Headmaster of Hogwarts.
I think I am not wrong when I say that for many of us, he was a part of
Hogwarts, like the Great Hall. Maybe he even was Hogwarts — old, friendly,
full of knowledge and lessons, and more than a bit quirky.
“But he was more than just the Headmaster. More than the Chief Warlock, or the
Supreme Mugwump. He was, first and foremost, the greatest wizard of his time.
Not just because of his vast knowledge of magic, including Alchemy, or because
of his famous duel with Grindelwald. No, what made him the greatest wizard was
his compassion. He cared about all his students, all his teachers, about all
of us.
Supreme Mugwump. He was, first and foremost, the greatest wizard of his time.
Not just because of his vast knowledge of magic, including Alchemy, or because
of his famous duel with Grindelwald. No, what made him the greatest wizard was
his compassion. He cared about all his students, all his teachers, about all
of us.
“And he cared about Britain. He fought, he struggled, and he died for this,
our country. For us all. But while he has finally gone to his next adventure,
as he called death, his ideals live on. His legacy will not be forgotten.”
our country. For us all. But while he has finally gone to his next adventure,
as he called death, his ideals live on. His legacy will not be forgotten.”
He was about to step down from the pedestal when he suddenly heard a familiar
trill. Looking up, he saw Fawkes hover over him, wings flapping slowly, as the
phoenix broke into song.
trill. Looking up, he saw Fawkes hover over him, wings flapping slowly, as the
phoenix broke into song.
No one seemed to move while Fawkes sang, circling above the tombstone. Harry
couldn’t have described the song afterwards, but it conveyed the phoenix’s
feelings of love and loss. Then, the song fading, Fawkes rose in the sky,
trailing motes of fire, until he disappeared in the sun.
couldn’t have described the song afterwards, but it conveyed the phoenix’s
feelings of love and loss. Then, the song fading, Fawkes rose in the sky,
trailing motes of fire, until he disappeared in the sun.
Harry took a deep breath and resumed making his way back to his seat. Bones’s
face seemed frozen, Harry noticed, while he returned to his seat. He hadn’t
been too blatant, he thought — but she’d know what he had meant.
face seemed frozen, Harry noticed, while he returned to his seat. He hadn’t
been too blatant, he thought — but she’d know what he had meant.
And, he added mentally while Madam Maxime, the first of the representatives of
the other Magical Schools, walked up to the pedestal, so would others.
the other Magical Schools, walked up to the pedestal, so would others.
Just as, he was certain, Dumbledore would have wanted.
Chapter 44: Trials
==================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox and fredfred for betaing. They improved the
story a lot.
story a lot.
---
**Chapter 44: Trials**
*In a noticeable difference to other civil wars, such as the third succession
war in the Kingdom of Magical Florida, public order did not break down during
the Second Blood War. While the combatants fought without regard for law and
order, the common wizard or witch did obey the law. With the exception of the
riot in Diagon Alley, there were no widespread incidents of looting or
robberies. Even stretched past their breaking point, the Aurors managed to
enforce the law.*
war in the Kingdom of Magical Florida, public order did not break down during
the Second Blood War. While the combatants fought without regard for law and
order, the common wizard or witch did obey the law. With the exception of the
riot in Diagon Alley, there were no widespread incidents of looting or
robberies. Even stretched past their breaking point, the Aurors managed to
enforce the law.*
*This changed after the Dark Lord’s death, when the muggleborns who had been
hiding in muggle Britain started to return. They generally did not rely on the
authorities to retake possession of whatever shops and homes they had left
months ago, but preferred to simply drive away whoever had taken over the
locations with threats and even violence.*
hiding in muggle Britain started to return. They generally did not rely on the
authorities to retake possession of whatever shops and homes they had left
months ago, but preferred to simply drive away whoever had taken over the
locations with threats and even violence.*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 10th, 1997**
Amelia Bones folded the Daily Prophet and dropped it on her desk. At least the
press was acting in a responsible manner and following ministerial directions,
she thought. And in hindsight, it had been a good thing that Skeeter had
refused to help them — the author of the article covering Dumbledore’s funeral
had been far more subtle than she would have been, and had simply mentioned
how close Granger was to the Boy-Who-Lived, together with pointing out just
how young Harry was, still at Hogwarts even. That would hopefully be subtle
enough to keep the Resistance from recognising their strategy.
press was acting in a responsible manner and following ministerial directions,
she thought. And in hindsight, it had been a good thing that Skeeter had
refused to help them — the author of the article covering Dumbledore’s funeral
had been far more subtle than she would have been, and had simply mentioned
how close Granger was to the Boy-Who-Lived, together with pointing out just
how young Harry was, still at Hogwarts even. That would hopefully be subtle
enough to keep the Resistance from recognising their strategy.
If only everyone else would care more for Britain than themselves! But not
even Hogwarts’ staff saw just how much Britain needed to be united right now.
Although that was no surprise, given that Dumbledore had handpicked all of the
teachers and other staff members.
even Hogwarts’ staff saw just how much Britain needed to be united right now.
Although that was no surprise, given that Dumbledore had handpicked all of the
teachers and other staff members.
Dumbledore. Even after his death, the man’s machinations continued. Potter was
his creature, down to sharing the man’s ideals — no wonder, since the boy had
been raised by muggles. And yet, without Dumbledore, Britain would have fallen
to the Dark Lord — or Grindelwald. He truly had been the greatest wizard in
Britain. If only he hadn’t been so radical!
his creature, down to sharing the man’s ideals — no wonder, since the boy had
been raised by muggles. And yet, without Dumbledore, Britain would have fallen
to the Dark Lord — or Grindelwald. He truly had been the greatest wizard in
Britain. If only he hadn’t been so radical!
She sighed through clenched teeth. At the start of this mess, right after the
return of the Dark Lord, Dumbledore and she had been working quite well
together, pushing for increased recruiting of Aurors and Hit-Wizards and
trying to convince Cornelius to move against the Dark Lord before he could
amass more power and influence. They had made progress as well, especially
after the Dark Lord’s attack on the Ministry.
return of the Dark Lord, Dumbledore and she had been working quite well
together, pushing for increased recruiting of Aurors and Hit-Wizards and
trying to convince Cornelius to move against the Dark Lord before he could
amass more power and influence. They had made progress as well, especially
after the Dark Lord’s attack on the Ministry.
But then, Dumbledore’s reaction to the massacre at Malfoy Manor had shown the
key differences between Amelia and the Chief Warlock. He was a politician, and
for him, the end — the defeat of the Dark Lord — justified the means. In this
case, mass murder. He didn’t care about the law at all, something Amelia
couldn’t bear. If you started breaking the law in the name of expediency, you
eroded the very foundation of civilisation. It would lead to ‘might makes
right’ — exactly what Grindelwald and the Dark Lord had stood for. She
remembered how Dumbledore had openly threatened Britain, later, in order to
force them to accede to his demands, and ground her teeth. No, she didn’t
mourn Dumbledore’s passing. For all his great power, he had been a threat to
her country.
key differences between Amelia and the Chief Warlock. He was a politician, and
for him, the end — the defeat of the Dark Lord — justified the means. In this
case, mass murder. He didn’t care about the law at all, something Amelia
couldn’t bear. If you started breaking the law in the name of expediency, you
eroded the very foundation of civilisation. It would lead to ‘might makes
right’ — exactly what Grindelwald and the Dark Lord had stood for. She
remembered how Dumbledore had openly threatened Britain, later, in order to
force them to accede to his demands, and ground her teeth. No, she didn’t
mourn Dumbledore’s passing. For all his great power, he had been a threat to
her country.
If only… Amelia shook her head. She couldn’t afford to dwell on fantasies. She
had a country to rebuild. And she’d do her duty — even if half the Ministry
seemed to be conspiring against her. She checked her watch. Especially the
wizard she was about to meet, Arthur Weasley.
had a country to rebuild. And she’d do her duty — even if half the Ministry
seemed to be conspiring against her. She checked her watch. Especially the
wizard she was about to meet, Arthur Weasley.
---
“Have a seat, Arthur.”
“Thank you, Amelia.” The wizard sat down with that easy, almost shy smile he
usually wore.
usually wore.
Amelia wouldn’t be fooled, though — Arthur had shown his true colours in the
war, fighting for Dumbledore. He was far smarter and more cunning than he
acted. Fortunately, as the Head of the Office of Anti-Curse Measures and
Research, he was also far more vulnerable than he might have thought.
war, fighting for Dumbledore. He was far smarter and more cunning than he
acted. Fortunately, as the Head of the Office of Anti-Curse Measures and
Research, he was also far more vulnerable than he might have thought.
“How goes the search for a cure for the Withering Curse?” she asked. “The
families of those afflicted are hounding me about this — with the Dark Lord
dead, they expect the curse to be lifted.”
families of those afflicted are hounding me about this — with the Dark Lord
dead, they expect the curse to be lifted.”
Arthur sighed. “Unfortunately, the Dark Lord’s death did not end his curses.”
Amelia interrupted him. “Dark Curses do not vanish because their caster dies.
I have a number of scarred Aurors who can attest to that.”
I have a number of scarred Aurors who can attest to that.”
Arthur coughed. “Yes. That’s because dark curses are tied into the very soul
of those afflicted, sustaining themselves with the victims’ magic. Although
the death of the caster usually lessens their power.”
of those afflicted, sustaining themselves with the victims’ magic. Although
the death of the caster usually lessens their power.”
“I did pass my Defence N.E.W.T., Arthur.” She was growing annoyed.
“I’m sorry!” He smiled in his usual, seemingly self-effacing, way, which
annoyed her even more. “Many of the people assigned to my department didn’t.
Pass their Defence Against the Dark Arts N.E.W.T., I mean. So I had to explain
the theory so often, it became a habit.”
annoyed her even more. “Many of the people assigned to my department didn’t.
Pass their Defence Against the Dark Arts N.E.W.T., I mean. So I had to explain
the theory so often, it became a habit.”
Of course Arthur’s department wouldn’t get anyone even remotely capable in
Defence Against the Dark Arts! Those were desperately needed in the Auror and
Hit-Wizards Corps! “I distinctly recall that you received several
Curse-Breakers.” She wouldn’t let him blame his own failures on her.
Defence Against the Dark Arts! Those were desperately needed in the Auror and
Hit-Wizards Corps! “I distinctly recall that you received several
Curse-Breakers.” She wouldn’t let him blame his own failures on her.
“I did. Although they were not among the most experienced,” he said.
“We don’t have that many experienced Curse-Breakers left.” Nor many other
experienced wizards and witches.
experienced wizards and witches.
“I know.” He kept smiling. “Hopefully, this will change with the muggleborns
returning. A number of skilled Curse-Breakers were let go or left because of
the Muggleborn Laws.”
returning. A number of skilled Curse-Breakers were let go or left because of
the Muggleborn Laws.”
Hiring muggleborns? The very people who had not only defied the Ministry’s
authority and cheered the mass-murderers of the Resistance, but were now
taking the properties they had left or sold back at wand-point? Amelia managed
to hide her first reaction to that proposal. “That presumes that they want to
return to the employ of the Ministry,” she said, carefully controlling her
voice.
authority and cheered the mass-murderers of the Resistance, but were now
taking the properties they had left or sold back at wand-point? Amelia managed
to hide her first reaction to that proposal. “That presumes that they want to
return to the employ of the Ministry,” she said, carefully controlling her
voice.
“I think that once they realise that most of those who forced them out are
gone, they will at least consider it,” Arthur said. ‘The current Ministry
should prove to be a far more welcoming place for muggleborns.’ With a short
chuckle, he added: “It’s not as if there are many other skilled wizards and
witches left to hire.”
gone, they will at least consider it,” Arthur said. ‘The current Ministry
should prove to be a far more welcoming place for muggleborns.’ With a short
chuckle, he added: “It’s not as if there are many other skilled wizards and
witches left to hire.”
That was true, unfortunately. There were capable people left, but most of
those already had well-paying positions in private businesses. Like the
Quidditch League. And patriotism wouldn’t make many, if any, of them quit. But
to hire muggleborns en masse… it was a transparent ploy of Arthur and Black to
subvert the Ministry. “We shall see,” she said.
those already had well-paying positions in private businesses. Like the
Quidditch League. And patriotism wouldn’t make many, if any, of them quit. But
to hire muggleborns en masse… it was a transparent ploy of Arthur and Black to
subvert the Ministry. “We shall see,” she said.
“Well, there’s not much I can do about the Withering Curse until I have
experienced people working on it. The Department of Mysteries is working on
the issue as well, but they have refused to coordinate our efforts, citing a
need for secrecy,” Arthur said. He snorted. “Unless they’re dabbling in the
houngan arts themselves, I don’t really see any secrets being endangered, but
you know how the Unspeakables are.” He sighed and shrugged.
experienced people working on it. The Department of Mysteries is working on
the issue as well, but they have refused to coordinate our efforts, citing a
need for secrecy,” Arthur said. He snorted. “Unless they’re dabbling in the
houngan arts themselves, I don’t really see any secrets being endangered, but
you know how the Unspeakables are.” He sighed and shrugged.
Amelia knew that better than anyone else outside the Department of Mysteries.
If she had had their cooperation during the war… She forced herself to focus
on her current situation. “You’re not the only one in this situation. All
departments are understaffed and bereft of experienced employees. And yet
everyone is doing what they can to do their duty.” Everyone else, at least,
she thought, but did not say out loud.
If she had had their cooperation during the war… She forced herself to focus
on her current situation. “You’re not the only one in this situation. All
departments are understaffed and bereft of experienced employees. And yet
everyone is doing what they can to do their duty.” Everyone else, at least,
she thought, but did not say out loud.
“We’re doing what we can, but until Hogwarts starts offering courses in dark
curses and necromancy, recent graduates won’t be able to do much about
either.” Arthur didn’t lose his smile, but his eyes seemed to glint when he
leaned forward. “We’re talking about a curse cast by the Dark Lord himself.
Remember the curse he placed on the position of Defence Against the Dark Arts
professor? Not even Dumbledore could break that one.”
curses and necromancy, recent graduates won’t be able to do much about
either.” Arthur didn’t lose his smile, but his eyes seemed to glint when he
leaned forward. “We’re talking about a curse cast by the Dark Lord himself.
Remember the curse he placed on the position of Defence Against the Dark Arts
professor? Not even Dumbledore could break that one.”
Amelia hadn’t been aware that such a curse had ever been proven to exist, but
this was not the time to debate that. “As you said yourself: With the Dark
Lord’s death, the curse was weakened. You have the best employees we can
spare, so I expect results.” It was technically true, even. But with the
current situation, they needed every wand for more urgent tasks. There were
the Dementors to deal with too — another task for the Unspeakables. And if
public order or the Ministry itself fell, then the fate of the Withering
Curse’s victims would be sealed as well. “Is there anything else?”
this was not the time to debate that. “As you said yourself: With the Dark
Lord’s death, the curse was weakened. You have the best employees we can
spare, so I expect results.” It was technically true, even. But with the
current situation, they needed every wand for more urgent tasks. There were
the Dementors to deal with too — another task for the Unspeakables. And if
public order or the Ministry itself fell, then the fate of the Withering
Curse’s victims would be sealed as well. “Is there anything else?”
Arthur shook his head and rose. Just before he reached the door, he turned
around, though. “If fresh Hogwarts graduates and inexperienced Curse-Breakers
were a match even for a weakened Dark Lord’s curse, then the Muggleborn
Resistance and the Order of the Phoenix wouldn’t have had to save the
Ministry.”
around, though. “If fresh Hogwarts graduates and inexperienced Curse-Breakers
were a match even for a weakened Dark Lord’s curse, then the Muggleborn
Resistance and the Order of the Phoenix wouldn’t have had to save the
Ministry.”
Amelia managed to keep from snarling until the door had closed behind him.
---
**London, East End, February 10th, 1997**
At breakfast, Hermione Granger put her cup of tea down next to the plate with
her croissants and pressed her lips together to avoid muttering the sort of
curses under her breath for which she used to chide others. The Daily
Prophet’s coverage of Dumbledore’s funeral was, on the face of it, acceptable,
but the details…
her croissants and pressed her lips together to avoid muttering the sort of
curses under her breath for which she used to chide others. The Daily
Prophet’s coverage of Dumbledore’s funeral was, on the face of it, acceptable,
but the details…
*…The Boy-Who-Lived spoke touching words about his teacher, who had left him
and his entire generation of students far too soon, in the middle of their
education. The young student’s brief speech provided a moving contrast to the
words from all the dignitaries and friends of the late Chief Warlock…*
and his entire generation of students far too soon, in the middle of their
education. The young student’s brief speech provided a moving contrast to the
words from all the dignitaries and friends of the late Chief Warlock…*
*…Hermione Granger was seated between Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley. The
muggleborn witch had been close to the two younger boys for their entire time
at Hogwarts, and so it is only logical that more developed from their
friendship. Though given what the Boy-Who-Lived went through, he will
hopefully receive support from experienced staff at Hogwarts. They’ll have
enough time, at least, since he has not yet finished his sixth year…*
muggleborn witch had been close to the two younger boys for their entire time
at Hogwarts, and so it is only logical that more developed from their
friendship. Though given what the Boy-Who-Lived went through, he will
hopefully receive support from experienced staff at Hogwarts. They’ll have
enough time, at least, since he has not yet finished his sixth year…*
…Sirius Black seemed to have fully recovered from his ordeal during the war.
More than one Healer had been worried about his mental state as he had spent
more than a decade in Azkaban…
More than one Healer had been worried about his mental state as he had spent
more than a decade in Azkaban…
The Ministry was obviously trying to be subtle, coating their poison in sweet,
caring drivel instead of the sharp attacks Skeeter was so fond of. But if you
knew what to look for, it was plain as day.
caring drivel instead of the sharp attacks Skeeter was so fond of. But if you
knew what to look for, it was plain as day.
Hermione took a deep breath, closing her eyes for a moment, then blew at a
lock of hair that had fallen on to her face. She needed a haircut too, she
thought with a snort, then brushed the lock back.
lock of hair that had fallen on to her face. She needed a haircut too, she
thought with a snort, then brushed the lock back.
She had expected such an attack, even predicted it, but still… The question
was: How should they respond? She had blackmailed Skeeter, which had put an
end to the slander from that witch, but to try and blackmail the Daily
Prophet… she didn’t exactly have much leverage, and even if she had, such an
attempt might backfire. The Ministry might very well decide to get directly
involved, and use the opportunity to take the newspaper over. Threatening the
newspaper’s office and owners ran the same risk. Bones might even be expecting
that, and be ready to denounce them as criminals.
was: How should they respond? She had blackmailed Skeeter, which had put an
end to the slander from that witch, but to try and blackmail the Daily
Prophet… she didn’t exactly have much leverage, and even if she had, such an
attempt might backfire. The Ministry might very well decide to get directly
involved, and use the opportunity to take the newspaper over. Threatening the
newspaper’s office and owners ran the same risk. Bones might even be expecting
that, and be ready to denounce them as criminals.
But they had to react to that attack, before the British public saw Harry as a
naive boy and her as some manipulative slag. She bit her lower lip. The
Quibbler wouldn’t work well — it was a magazine, not a daily newspaper. And
she doubted that the Lovegoods wanted to turn it into a militant newspaper.
naive boy and her as some manipulative slag. She bit her lower lip. The
Quibbler wouldn’t work well — it was a magazine, not a daily newspaper. And
she doubted that the Lovegoods wanted to turn it into a militant newspaper.
Lacking television, that left the wireless. It was even better for propaganda,
provided you could reach the majority of the population, and had a good
orator. Which, she thought with a sigh, Harry wasn’t. Yet. And listening to
speeches could get boring. They needed something new, something to catch the
people’s attention. Apart from muggle music. Maybe a discussion show, or
something… She’d have to take a closer look at what the BBC was broadcasting.
provided you could reach the majority of the population, and had a good
orator. Which, she thought with a sigh, Harry wasn’t. Yet. And listening to
speeches could get boring. They needed something new, something to catch the
people’s attention. Apart from muggle music. Maybe a discussion show, or
something… She’d have to take a closer look at what the BBC was broadcasting.
She sighed again. There was something more urgent to deal with. And she wasn’t
looking forward to it.
looking forward to it.
---
“I assume you have heard about the Ministry’s demand to release our prisoners
into their custody so they can be tried in front of the Wizengamot,” Hermione
said an hour later in the living room.
into their custody so they can be tried in front of the Wizengamot,” Hermione
said an hour later in the living room.
Seamus snorted. “As if! Releasing Death Eaters into the care of the Ministry,
so they can let them go? Are they delusional?”
so they can let them go? Are they delusional?”
Tania and John nodded in agreement, Hermione noted. She took a deep breath.
“Not quite.”
“Not quite.”
“What? You know they’ll let them go!” Seamus said, standing up.
“That’s quite likely,” she agreed. “But if the Wizengamot acquits them, then
that will demonstrate to everyone just how corrupt the system is. Such a
travesty of justice would serve as a perfect example of the need to reform
Wizarding Britain.”
that will demonstrate to everyone just how corrupt the system is. Such a
travesty of justice would serve as a perfect example of the need to reform
Wizarding Britain.”
“You want to use that to generate more support.” Justin nodded. He didn’t look
quite convinced, though.
quite convinced, though.
“Yes,” she said. “On the other hand, if we keep them, or if we try them
ourselves, then we’ll be portrayed as criminals.”
ourselves, then we’ll be portrayed as criminals.”
“They’ll do that anyway,” Louise said. The former Hit-Wizard was sneering.
“We’d make it easier for them, though. The Ministry is claiming that with the
war over, there is no reason for vigilantes any more.” Hermione scoffed.
“Unfortunately, I think that a lot of the purebloods, and even many
half-bloods, would agree with them, believing that things have returned to
normal. If we let the Ministry portray us as a bunch of kidnappers in defiance
of the law, we’d be playing into their hands. On the other hand, if we let
them acquit captured Death Eaters, we can build on that.”
war over, there is no reason for vigilantes any more.” Hermione scoffed.
“Unfortunately, I think that a lot of the purebloods, and even many
half-bloods, would agree with them, believing that things have returned to
normal. If we let the Ministry portray us as a bunch of kidnappers in defiance
of the law, we’d be playing into their hands. On the other hand, if we let
them acquit captured Death Eaters, we can build on that.”
“I see.” Seamus sat down and slowly nodded, then started to grin. “Give them
enough rope to hang themselves, eh?”
enough rope to hang themselves, eh?”
“Yes.” Hermione nodded at him. “And you know that our prisoners are not
exactly hard-core Death Eaters.” Otherwise Nott, Davis and Greengrass would
have shared Malfoy’s fate.
exactly hard-core Death Eaters.” Otherwise Nott, Davis and Greengrass would
have shared Malfoy’s fate.
“That is true. But it also means that the Wizengamot will have an easier time
justifying their acquittal,” Justin said, looking at her. “A group of
teenagers who joined the Dark Lord because they were afraid for their lives
and wanted to avenge their parents… It wouldn’t be that hard to portray them
in a sympathetic way to the public.”
justifying their acquittal,” Justin said, looking at her. “A group of
teenagers who joined the Dark Lord because they were afraid for their lives
and wanted to avenge their parents… It wouldn’t be that hard to portray them
in a sympathetic way to the public.”
“Bloody Slytherins!” Seamus muttered.
“I agree. But on the other hand, we can point out how they tried to murder
children at Hogwarts, then fled when their plan failed, only to attack
pureblood supporters of Dumbledore.” Hermione grinned. ‘Not exactly the
actions of innocents kids afraid of the Resistance.’ Appearances mattered more
in politics than the truth; that much she knew. She let the others consider
that for a moment. “Besides, they’re not exactly our prisoners any more — we
handed them over to the Order.”
children at Hogwarts, then fled when their plan failed, only to attack
pureblood supporters of Dumbledore.” Hermione grinned. ‘Not exactly the
actions of innocents kids afraid of the Resistance.’ Appearances mattered more
in politics than the truth; that much she knew. She let the others consider
that for a moment. “Besides, they’re not exactly our prisoners any more — we
handed them over to the Order.”
“What does the Order want?” Sally-Anne asked.
“The ones who care for the prisoners want to hand them over to the Ministry.”
So Sirius had told her. She shrugged. “Some of them might hope that the
conflict is now over, and they can return to their normal lives.”
So Sirius had told her. She shrugged. “Some of them might hope that the
conflict is now over, and they can return to their normal lives.”
“Cowards!” Seamus muttered, then clenched his teeth. He probably wanted to
call them even worse names.
call them even worse names.
“They fought bravely against the Dark Lord, but not all of them have realised
just how bad the Wizengamot is,” Hermione said. “If they see the three
prisoners get released, they might change their opinion.” Sirius and the
Weasleys could work on them, she thought.
just how bad the Wizengamot is,” Hermione said. “If they see the three
prisoners get released, they might change their opinion.” Sirius and the
Weasleys could work on them, she thought.
“It’s still a risk we’re taking,” Justin said, “but I don’t see a better
alternative.”
alternative.”
“Could always kill them,” Seamus said. “Now or later.”
Hermione stared at him. That sounded too close to Allan’s words for her
comfort.
comfort.
She wasn’t the only one staring at him. Seamus noticed, and frowned. “I’m just
pointing out options!”
pointing out options!”
“They’re not good ideas,” Justin said. “It’s widely known that we captured
them. If they suddenly disappear, we’ll be blamed as murderers.”
them. If they suddenly disappear, we’ll be blamed as murderers.”
Hermione cut in. “Yes. Remember all those lies about us wanting to murder all
purebloods? The Ministry would spread them all over Wizarding Britain, calling
us as bad as the Death Eaters.”
purebloods? The Ministry would spread them all over Wizarding Britain, calling
us as bad as the Death Eaters.”
Seamus seemed to understand the danger, since he winced and didn’t say
anything else.
anything else.
Hermione nodded. “So… all in favour of telling the Order to release the
prisoners into the custody of the Ministry?”
prisoners into the custody of the Ministry?”
The group agreed, some more slowly than others, though.
“Good. I’ll tell them.” She took a breath. “Now… we need to discuss
recruitment for the Resistance. We need more people.” She didn’t have to point
out that they had lost half their number during the war against Voldemort.
recruitment for the Resistance. We need more people.” She didn’t have to point
out that they had lost half their number during the war against Voldemort.
“Do you expect that we’ll have to fight the Ministry?” Sally-Anne asked,
twisting her ponytail around her finger in that nervous habit she had.
twisting her ponytail around her finger in that nervous habit she had.
“I’d rather be prepared for such a conflict than caught flat-footed,” Hermione
said.
said.
Justin nodded in agreement. “We’ll need to be careful when recruiting,
though.” Hermione knew he was not just talking about Ministry spies, but
people like Allan too. “And it’ll take time to train them.”
though.” Hermione knew he was not just talking about Ministry spies, but
people like Allan too. “And it’ll take time to train them.”
“And money,” Louise added.
“Money’s not an issue,” Hermione said. “Unless we want to recruit so many
people that we couldn’t train them all, our finances are covered.”
people that we couldn’t train them all, our finances are covered.”
“I don’t like depending on Black,” Seamus muttered. “He’s a pureblood.”
“He’s also an innocent wizard who was sent to Azkaban and spent a decade
there,” Hermione countered. ‘He has no love for the Ministry.’ Quite the
contrary. He joked a bit too often about blowing up the Ministry. “But we
digress. We need more people — at least half a dozen, though I’d prefer a
dozen.”
there,” Hermione countered. ‘He has no love for the Ministry.’ Quite the
contrary. He joked a bit too often about blowing up the Ministry. “But we
digress. We need more people — at least half a dozen, though I’d prefer a
dozen.”
“So many?” Tania frowned. “They would outnumber us.”
“Yes.” Hermione was well-aware that increasing the Resistance’s ranks by that
many would change the dynamics of the group. “We’ll have to make sure that all
recruits fit in.”
many would change the dynamics of the group. “We’ll have to make sure that all
recruits fit in.”
“We’re the veterans who fought in the war. They’d better listen to us,” Seamus
said.
said.
Mary-Jane spoke up for the first time. “I’m not exactly a veteran.” She wasn’t
looking at anyone, Hermione noticed. “And I’m not exactly a member of the
Resistance.”
looking at anyone, Hermione noticed. “And I’m not exactly a member of the
Resistance.”
“You’ve fought in the war,” Sally-Anne said, reaching out to pat the girl’s
hand. “And you just need training.”
hand. “And you just need training.”
Louise cleared her throat. “I can contact a few of my friends from school; now
that they are returning to Wizarding Britain owl post should be working again.
They won’t be enough, though.”
that they are returning to Wizarding Britain owl post should be working again.
They won’t be enough, though.”
“And if we pass out a general recruitment notice, we’ll get swamped — and
alert the Ministry,” Justin said.
alert the Ministry,” Justin said.
“I have a solution for that.” Hermione grinned. “We need to organise the
returning muggleborns anyway. We can use that to find suitable recruits.”
returning muggleborns anyway. We can use that to find suitable recruits.”
“You want to hold a rally?” John looked at her.
“Yes.” Hermione nodded at him. “We’ll need to be careful about what we say —
there’ll be spies from the Ministry at any public event — but we have to put
pressure on the Wizengamot and the Ministry.”
there’ll be spies from the Ministry at any public event — but we have to put
pressure on the Wizengamot and the Ministry.”
“They’ll not cave in to a few demonstrations,” Seamus said. “Not the kind that
involve waving banners around, at least,” he added with a snort.
involve waving banners around, at least,” he added with a snort.
“I’d rather not start a war,” Hermione said, pursing her lips. Not when they
were not ready for it, and certainly not when there was still hope that the
Ministry would give in.
were not ready for it, and certainly not when there was still hope that the
Ministry would give in.
“Such rallies and demonstrations can easily get out of control,” Justin said.
“Imagine if someone sent a curse into the crowd. Or if someone starts shouting
about hunting down the Death Eaters and their supporters on our list.”
“Imagine if someone sent a curse into the crowd. Or if someone starts shouting
about hunting down the Death Eaters and their supporters on our list.”
“Most of those who were not killed in the war are still in hiding,” she said.
And the Ministry wasn’t exactly working hard to hunt them down, according to
Sirius. ‘But I know we’re risking a riot.’ Security would have to be very
tight, Hermione knew. They might even have to hold the rally in a warded
building, even though that would lessen its impact. “We have to do this,
though, or people will get used to the Ministry being in charge of their lives
again. We have to show that we have the support of the population.”
And the Ministry wasn’t exactly working hard to hunt them down, according to
Sirius. ‘But I know we’re risking a riot.’ Security would have to be very
tight, Hermione knew. They might even have to hold the rally in a warded
building, even though that would lessen its impact. “We have to do this,
though, or people will get used to the Ministry being in charge of their lives
again. We have to show that we have the support of the population.”
Justin sighed. “There goes our spare time!” He was joking, Hermione thought,
but the glance he exchanged with Sally-Anne showed that he knew what it meant
for the couple’s relationship.
but the glance he exchanged with Sally-Anne showed that he knew what it meant
for the couple’s relationship.
She didn’t feel too guilty about it, though — she wouldn’t have much time to
spend with Ron either, and her boyfriend wasn’t living with her. And she
needed to make time for studying the books Dumbledore had left her. And look
into finding a cure for the Withering Curse. She sighed. “Unfortunately, we
all will be very busy for the foreseeable future. In addition to recruiting,
we need to contact the Major and the Sergeant, organise a training camp,
continue and expand our broadcasts, and keep an eye on the Ministry’s
actions.” She pointed at the Daily Prophet. “They already started their smear
campaign against Harry.”
spend with Ron either, and her boyfriend wasn’t living with her. And she
needed to make time for studying the books Dumbledore had left her. And look
into finding a cure for the Withering Curse. She sighed. “Unfortunately, we
all will be very busy for the foreseeable future. In addition to recruiting,
we need to contact the Major and the Sergeant, organise a training camp,
continue and expand our broadcasts, and keep an eye on the Ministry’s
actions.” She pointed at the Daily Prophet. “They already started their smear
campaign against Harry.”
While the rest of the Resistance, except for Justin, Sally-Anne and John, who
had read the issue already, gathered around the newspaper, Hermione leaned
back in her seat and wondered how she would find the time to do all that
needed doing.
had read the issue already, gathered around the newspaper, Hermione leaned
back in her seat and wondered how she would find the time to do all that
needed doing.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 10th, 1997**
Ron Weasley raised his wand and banished the Daily Prophet towards the corner
of the kitchen. The newspaper hit the wall, then fell to the ground. He saw
the dignitaries on the big picture of the front page stumble around, before
realigning themselves, and briefly chuckled.
of the kitchen. The newspaper hit the wall, then fell to the ground. He saw
the dignitaries on the big picture of the front page stumble around, before
realigning themselves, and briefly chuckled.
“Ronald!”
His mum was standing in the doorway, shaking her head.
“Sorry, Mum,” he said. “I just got fed up with the drivel in it. I didn’t know
you hadn’t read it yet.”
you hadn’t read it yet.”
“That’s not what I meant!” she said. “You shouldn’t be using your wand. You’re
not yet of age.”
not yet of age.”
He stared at her, then laughed — and hissed through clenched teeth when his
side hurt again. Laughing wasn’t a good idea.
side hurt again. Laughing wasn’t a good idea.
“Ron!” Mum had gone from angry to concerned in a heartbeat, her wand flashing
while she cast a spell on his side.
while she cast a spell on his side.
“I’m alright,” he protested. “It’s just a bit of pain. The muggle Healer said
it wasn’t dangerous.”
it wasn’t dangerous.”
She scoffed. “They don’t know anything about magic.” But she stopped casting,
apparently satisfied that he wouldn’t bleed out.
apparently satisfied that he wouldn’t bleed out.
Ron sighed. “They saved me. And the wound’s not that bad. It can’t be healed
with magic, but the muggles didn’t have trouble with it.”
with magic, but the muggles didn’t have trouble with it.”
“That was caused by a curse cast by the Dark Lord himself! You almost…” She
shook her head, pressing her lips together. He could see some tears in her
eyes.
shook her head, pressing her lips together. He could see some tears in her
eyes.
“But I didn’t, Mum. I’m alright. Everyone is alright.” Everyone in his family,
at least.
at least.
She sighed and sat down on the chair next to him. He gingerly reached over and
laid his arm around her shoulders.
laid his arm around her shoulders.
“You still shouldn’t use magic outside Hogwarts. It’s illegal,” she said after
a while.
a while.
He snorted. “No one cared about that when I was fighting Death Eaters and the
Dark Lord.”
Dark Lord.”
“But they’ll care now. Percy told me that Amelia Bones is just waiting for any
opportunity to hurt Arthur’s standing in the Ministry.”
opportunity to hurt Arthur’s standing in the Ministry.”
Oh. Of course Bones would do that. That b… He pressed his lips together, not
wanting to upset his mum by cursing, then shrugged. “They’ll not detect
anything while we’re in this house. And I’ll be back at Hogwarts soon enough.”
wanting to upset his mum by cursing, then shrugged. “They’ll not detect
anything while we’re in this house. And I’ll be back at Hogwarts soon enough.”
“And when you’re out with Hermione?”
“Ah…” He stared at her.
She smiled, though she also looked a bit sad. “Did you think I wouldn’t know
what my children are up to?”
what my children are up to?”
“Well… you didn’t catch the twins that often when they were up to something.”
At least as far as he could tell.
At least as far as he could tell.
His mum sighed. “They were a handful. Worse than anyone else. But this is
different. Of course you’ll sneak out to meet your girlfriend. You’d do that
even if you hadn’t been…” She trailed off, but he knew what she meant.
different. Of course you’ll sneak out to meet your girlfriend. You’d do that
even if you hadn’t been…” She trailed off, but he knew what she meant.
“Yes.” He looked at the crumpled Prophet again.
“Will she be returning to Hogwarts?”
“I don’t know. I don’t think so.” He shook his head, slowly.
“That’s… surprising. She was always so dedicated to her education.”
“More like fanatical,” Ron said, chuckling as he remembered her parting words
after their first encounter with Fluffy.
after their first encounter with Fluffy.
“Did she change that much?” His mum sounded more concerned than he expected.
He thought it over. “It’s not so much that she changed — though she did, too —
but that things changed. She’s just got too much to do to go back to school.
Important things. She’ll pass her N.E.W.T.s anyway.” And with the highest
marks, he’d bet on it.
but that things changed. She’s just got too much to do to go back to school.
Important things. She’ll pass her N.E.W.T.s anyway.” And with the highest
marks, he’d bet on it.
His mum didn’t seem to approve. “And what about you?”
“I haven’t left Hogwarts, have I?” He smiled at her.
It didn’t impress her. She knew him too well. “And if you think you have more
important things to do than go to school?”
important things to do than go to school?”
He didn’t answer. He didn’t have to.
She sighed.
They sat in silence for a while longer, until she spoke up again. “Why did you
hex the newspaper? You were in a number of the pictures, even.”
hex the newspaper? You were in a number of the pictures, even.”
He frowned. “They made it sound as if Hermione is sleeping with both Harry and
me.”
me.”
“Oh!” She hugged him, a bit too forcefully — his side hurt again, but he
didn’t react. “You know she isn’t doing anything of that sort!”
didn’t react. “You know she isn’t doing anything of that sort!”
“I know. But it’s part of the Ministry’s plan. They want to discredit us. Make
us look like children so we’re not taken seriously.” Hermione had predicted
that.
us look like children so we’re not taken seriously.” Hermione had predicted
that.
“You are not yet adults.”
“I’ll be seventeen in less than three weeks, Mum.” And that made him sound
like a child indeed. “And Hermione’s already seventeen.” Harry though would
have to wait a few months more.
like a child indeed. “And Hermione’s already seventeen.” Harry though would
have to wait a few months more.
“I know. But you’ll always be my boy.”
He nodded, even though he thought he hadn’t been a boy since he had started
taking part in the war.
taking part in the war.
---
**Outside Rawtenstall, Lancashire, Britain, February 11th, 1997**
The first thing Daphne Greengrass saw when she woke up was the grey ceiling of
her prison. The second thing she saw was the sleeping form of Tracey.
her prison. The second thing she saw was the sleeping form of Tracey.
“Good afternoon.”
She knew that voice. She was tempted to ignore the speaker. Defy her captors.
But she wasn’t a Gryffindor. She was a Slytherin. So she turned her head to
look at the Weasley twins standing in the door of her cell, wands in hand.
“Why did you wake me up?” she asked, making an effort to sound as calm as she
could. “Do you want to extort more gold from my family?”
But she wasn’t a Gryffindor. She was a Slytherin. So she turned her head to
look at the Weasley twins standing in the door of her cell, wands in hand.
“Why did you wake me up?” she asked, making an effort to sound as calm as she
could. “Do you want to extort more gold from my family?”
Fred snorted. “No. We woke you up to tell you what happened while you slept.”
She stifled a gasp. She couldn’t afford to let them know how much she hungered
to know what happened to her family. “Ah.”
to know what happened to her family. “Ah.”
Next to her, Tracey stirred, groaning as she woke up. Daphne saw her friend
blink, then heard her mutter a curse.
blink, then heard her mutter a curse.
“Ah, the other sleeping beauty is awake!” George said, with mocking
cheerfulness.
cheerfulness.
Daphne looked around. “Where’s Theo?”
Fred shrugged. “He wasn’t cooperative, so we didn’t bother waking him up.”
“Why did you wake us up?” Tracey asked, sitting up, then falling back on her
bed with another curse.
bed with another curse.
“To tell you what happened while you slept,” George said, grinning widely.
Daphne glanced at Tracey. The two wizards were entirely too cheerful. That
didn’t bode well. She kept watching him. He wanted to tell them; she wouldn’t
lower herself to ask.
didn’t bode well. She kept watching him. He wanted to tell them; she wouldn’t
lower herself to ask.
“So talk!” Tracey spat.
Fred chuckled. “It’s actually good news. The war is over.”
“What?” Daphne gasped, staring at the twins.
“The Dark Lord’s dead. Harry killed him in a duel.” Fred grinned.
“Potter? Potter killed the Dark Lord in a duel?” They had to be lying. No one
but Dumbledore could match the Dark Lord. Certainly not Potter — he was in the
same year as Daphne!
but Dumbledore could match the Dark Lord. Certainly not Potter — he was in the
same year as Daphne!
“Yes. The Boy-Who-Lived defeated the Dark Lord again, and this time for good,”
Fred said.
Fred said.
“You’re lying!” Tracey said.
“I’m not. It happened outside our shop. Or what’s left of it. The Dark Lord
burned it down trying to kill us, you know.” Fred shrugged. “He failed.”
burned it down trying to kill us, you know.” Fred shrugged. “He failed.”
“Good riddance,” Tracey whispered next to her.
Daphne wasn’t really listening to her friend, though. She was staring at the
twins. Were they telling the truth? Why would they lie? To torment them?
“What’s the date?”
twins. Were they telling the truth? Why would they lie? To torment them?
“What’s the date?”
“February 11th.”
Two months. Exactly two months since she had been captured. And the war was
over? The last war had gone on for years!
over? The last war had gone on for years!
“That can’t be! Potter is just a kid!” Tracey was shaking her head wildly.
George laughed. “Did you forget why he is the Boy-Who-Lived? He defeated the
Dark Lord as a toddler! And in his first year. And in his second year. And
then again in his fourth year.”
Dark Lord as a toddler! And in his first year. And in his second year. And
then again in his fourth year.”
“Technically, that one was a draw,” Fred cut in. “Anyway. Dumbledore had
trained Harry for this, planned it all out. And the Dark Lord fell for it.”
trained Harry for this, planned it all out. And the Dark Lord fell for it.”
Tracey hissed. “So, you don’t need us any more, and will kill us now?”
Daphne froze. Was her friend correct? Would they murder them now? They had
murdered her family. What had happened to her sister? Astoria wouldn’t have
joined the Dark Lord, not if only two months had passed. And if she had been
killed, wouldn’t the twins have told her right away?
murdered her family. What had happened to her sister? Astoria wouldn’t have
joined the Dark Lord, not if only two months had passed. And if she had been
killed, wouldn’t the twins have told her right away?
Fred frowned. “No. We’ll hand you over to the Ministry so you can be tried in
front of the Wizengamot.”
front of the Wizengamot.”
“Once they get around to it,” George added. “Between rebuilding the Ministry
and Diagon Alley, the Ministry might be too busy to bother with you. But
that’s their problem. Ours is how to transport you two. And that’s easier if
you’re not awake. So…” He aimed his wand at her.
and Diagon Alley, the Ministry might be too busy to bother with you. But
that’s their problem. Ours is how to transport you two. And that’s easier if
you’re not awake. So…” He aimed his wand at her.
“Wait! What happened to my family? To Astoria?” Daphne asked quickly, staring
at the tip of his wand. She needed to know!
at the tip of his wand. She needed to know!
Fred shrugged. “I don’t know. Probably still in hiding.”
“Unless she was in Diagon Alley when the Death Eaters started to burn it
down,” George added, raising his own wand. “Your friends didn’t really care
about bystanders, you know.”
down,” George added, raising his own wand. “Your friends didn’t really care
about bystanders, you know.”
“Wait!” she yelled, raising her hands.
“Stupefy!”
“Stupefy!”
Everything went black.
---
When Daphne woke up again the first thing she saw was an unfamiliar ceiling.
It was a lighter grey. She was alive! They hadn’t killed her! The second thing
she saw was her uncle.
It was a lighter grey. She was alive! They hadn’t killed her! The second thing
she saw was her uncle.
“Daphne.” He smiled at her.
“Uncle Eric!” She sat up — she was on a small bed, barely more than a cot —
reaching out for him, but suddenly felt dizzy.
reaching out for him, but suddenly felt dizzy.
He rushed to catch her, before she fell, and held her while he gently lowered
her back on to the bed. “Careful! The Healers said you might be disoriented.
Stunned, after spending months under the influence of the Draught of Living
Death…”
her back on to the bed. “Careful! The Healers said you might be disoriented.
Stunned, after spending months under the influence of the Draught of Living
Death…”
She closed her eyes, trying to stop the room from spinning. “Where am I?”
“In the Ministry. In a holding cell.”
She pulled back, out of his embrace, and stared at him.
He winced. “I’m sorry. The Aurors insisted.”
She was still a prisoner, then. The twins hadn’t lied about that. “Is it true?
Is the Dark Lord dead?”
Is the Dark Lord dead?”
“Yes.” Her uncle nodded, then glanced at the door.
She understood — she had to watch what she was saying. “Astoria?”
“She’s safe as far as I know,” he said. But he was smiling. So he did know,
but couldn’t say more.
but couldn’t say more.
She sighed with relief. Her sister was safe. Her smile didn’t last long,
though — she was a prisoner, and she remembered what the twins had told her.
Taking a deep breath, she said: “They mentioned I would be put on trial.”
though — she was a prisoner, and she remembered what the twins had told her.
Taking a deep breath, she said: “They mentioned I would be put on trial.”
“Yes. The Minister was adamant about that.” He must have seen her reaction,
since he added: “Amelia Bones is the current Minister. Fudge was killed by the
Dark Lord.”
since he added: “Amelia Bones is the current Minister. Fudge was killed by the
Dark Lord.”
She stared at him. “What happened? What happened since I was taken prisoner?”
He told her.
---
Dumbledore dead. The Minister dead. Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade in ruins.
Dozens of Ministry employees cursed so they had to be dosed with Draught of
the Living Death — she shuddered at the memories that brought up. The Ministry
allied with the mudbloods. Mudbloods forcing purebloods out of their homes!
Had Britain gone mad during her captivity?
Dozens of Ministry employees cursed so they had to be dosed with Draught of
the Living Death — she shuddered at the memories that brought up. The Ministry
allied with the mudbloods. Mudbloods forcing purebloods out of their homes!
Had Britain gone mad during her captivity?
“I can’t believe it…” She shook her head, sending her hair flying back and
forth.
forth.
“It’s true,” he said. “A lot has happened.”
“So much death… I thought Malfoy Manor was the worst that could happen…” She
shivered, remembering how her parents had died, then sobbed.
shivered, remembering how her parents had died, then sobbed.
He held her again, rubbing her back.
“But… if the mu… muggleborns are allies with the Ministry…” She bit her lips.
How could she receive a fair trial under those conditions? The twins would
have known that!
How could she receive a fair trial under those conditions? The twins would
have known that!
“Do not worry,” her uncle said. “The Wizengamot has lost a lot of its members,
but it won’t bend to pressure from… them, and neither will the Minister.”
but it won’t bend to pressure from… them, and neither will the Minister.”
She slowly nodded, taking a few deep breaths.
“But,” he continued, “I need to know what you did. So I can speak in your
defence.”
defence.”
He was looking at her with apprehension, she realised. “I haven’t killed
anyone. And I didn’t join the Death Eaters.” She hadn’t been marked, at least.
anyone. And I didn’t join the Death Eaters.” She hadn’t been marked, at least.
“But you fought for the Dark Lord.”
“I joined a group led by Draco Malfoy with the goal of protecting our families
against the mudbloods trying to murder us. He didn’t mention the Dark Lord.”
Not at the start.
against the mudbloods trying to murder us. He didn’t mention the Dark Lord.”
Not at the start.
Her uncle stared at her for a moment, then nodded slowly and smiled. “Good.
I’m certain that the Wizengamot will understand that.”
I’m certain that the Wizengamot will understand that.”
Daphne hoped he was correct. She didn’t think that the Wizengamot would show
much mercy to Death Eaters. Not after what they had done. “What about
Astoria?”
much mercy to Death Eaters. Not after what they had done. “What about
Astoria?”
“She hasn’t been accused of anything.” He smiled. “My colleagues, and the
Ministry, understood her situation very well.”
Ministry, understood her situation very well.”
“Ah.” Daphne felt more optimistic. If the Ministry didn’t go after Astoria,
then her own chances were good as well. “Can she visit?”
then her own chances were good as well. “Can she visit?”
Her uncle winced. “I would rather she stay safely wherever she is. The
Ministry is… some of them might carry grudges.” He patted her shoulder as he
rose. “I’ll coordinate with Cressida and Thaddeus.”
Ministry is… some of them might carry grudges.” He patted her shoulder as he
rose. “I’ll coordinate with Cressida and Thaddeus.”
So Tracey and Theo were here as well. Daphne hadn’t had any reason to doubt
that, but it felt good to have confirmation. “Thank you.”
that, but it felt good to have confirmation. “Thank you.”
He smiled. “Don’t worry. I’ll push this in the Wizengamot. You’ll be home as
soon as possible.”
soon as possible.”
With that, he left, and Daphne was alone in her cell. But she wasn’t
insensate, at least. And she would be free, and with her sister, soon!
insensate, at least. And she would be free, and with her sister, soon!
---
**Hogwarts, February 12th, 1997**
His fame was useful, Harry Potter told himself when he entered the Great Hall
and heard the whispers start up as most of the students stared at him. Many
people listened to the Boy-Who-Lived. He could help change Britain for the
better thanks to his fame. Even more so than he had already, after killing
Voldemort.
and heard the whispers start up as most of the students stared at him. Many
people listened to the Boy-Who-Lived. He could help change Britain for the
better thanks to his fame. Even more so than he had already, after killing
Voldemort.
But as much as he told himself that, he still didn’t like being the centre of
so much attention. At least it wasn’t as bad as it had been right after the
battle. Even people he went to classes with had been looking at him as if he
was Dumbledore.
so much attention. At least it wasn’t as bad as it had been right after the
battle. Even people he went to classes with had been looking at him as if he
was Dumbledore.
It wasn’t quite that bad now, though the Daily Prophet’s articles covering the
Headmaster’s funeral hadn’t helped matters, despite the subtle dismissive
comments sprinkled throughout the praise heaped on him. He shook his head — he
didn’t want to think about that article. The things they had implied about
Hermione, Ron and himself…
Headmaster’s funeral hadn’t helped matters, despite the subtle dismissive
comments sprinkled throughout the praise heaped on him. He shook his head — he
didn’t want to think about that article. The things they had implied about
Hermione, Ron and himself…
Harry wished his friends were here. But Ron was still recovering at Grimmauld
Place, and Hermione was with the Resistance, wherever they were. He felt
rather alone, especially since if there was an assassin hiding among the
crowd, he wouldn’t spot them until it was almost too late… He shook his head.
He was at Hogwarts, which was among the safest locations in Britain. And if a
student attacked they’d regret it dearly.
Place, and Hermione was with the Resistance, wherever they were. He felt
rather alone, especially since if there was an assassin hiding among the
crowd, he wouldn’t spot them until it was almost too late… He shook his head.
He was at Hogwarts, which was among the safest locations in Britain. And if a
student attacked they’d regret it dearly.
He noticed Luna was waving at him, and he smiled and waved back before he took
a seat opposite Neville, next to Ginny.
a seat opposite Neville, next to Ginny.
“There you are!” the witch said, smiling at him. “Been on a walk again?”
Harry nodded. He had been flying, disillusioned, but it amounted to the same
thing, in his opinion. And while he trusted Ginny, she didn’t know Occlumency,
so her mind wasn’t protected against Legilimency. Though if she had used the
map, then she would already know what he had been doing.
thing, in his opinion. And while he trusted Ginny, she didn’t know Occlumency,
so her mind wasn’t protected against Legilimency. Though if she had used the
map, then she would already know what he had been doing.
She nodded, then pushed a plate with roasted chicken towards him. “These are
really good.”
really good.”
“Thanks.” She beamed at him, then turned back to her own meal.
Neville hadn’t said anything, just nodded at him when he had sat down.
“Is everything alright?” Harry asked.
Neville shrugged.
“I’ll take that as a ‘no’,” Harry said, snorting.
“I’m just thinking,” Neville said. “Lots to think about, right?” He glanced at
Harry, then looked down at his plate again.
Harry, then looked down at his plate again.
“Yes.” Though Harry couldn’t help wondering what Neville was thinking so hard
about. He had inherited a seat on the Wizengamot, and while he wasn’t yet old
enough to take it himself, his proxy would likely ask his opinion before
voting.
about. He had inherited a seat on the Wizengamot, and while he wasn’t yet old
enough to take it himself, his proxy would likely ask his opinion before
voting.
It wouldn’t take much to use Legilimency. Harry wouldn’t even need to make eye
contact. Not with the Elder Wand. He frowned and shook his head. He wouldn’t
do that to Neville. Nor to anyone else.
contact. Not with the Elder Wand. He frowned and shook his head. He wouldn’t
do that to Neville. Nor to anyone else.
“What’s wrong?” Ginny asked. “You both are looking so…” she made a gesture
with her hand, instead of continuing.
with her hand, instead of continuing.
“Nothing,” Harry said.
“Just thinking,” Neville said at the same time.
Ginny frowned, pouting. It was a cute expression, Harry thought, and he almost
chuckled in response. She must have noticed anyway, since he saw her eyes
narrowing.
chuckled in response. She must have noticed anyway, since he saw her eyes
narrowing.
“I was thinking of the battle,” he said.
“Oh.”
And now she looked ashamed for having brought that up. Harry felt guilty for
lying to her, but he didn’t think telling her that he was pondering whether or
not to invade their minds would be a good idea.
lying to her, but he didn’t think telling her that he was pondering whether or
not to invade their minds would be a good idea.
“They handed Greengrass, Davis and Nott over to the Ministry,” Neville said
suddenly.
suddenly.
“Ah.” Harry had known of that in advance.
“They’ll be tried in front of the Wizengamot,” Neville went on. “Next Monday.”
Harry hadn’t known that. “That’s quick.”
“Their relatives are pushing for a quick trial.” His friend frowned. “I wonder
how we should vote.”
how we should vote.”
“In the trial?” Harry asked.
“Yes.”
“Shouldn’t you — your proxy — decide that during the trial?” Harry couldn’t
quite hide his reaction to Neville’s words.
quite hide his reaction to Neville’s words.
“We already know that they’re Death Eaters. They were caught with Malfoy,”
Ginny said.
Ginny said.
Neville nodded.
“They weren’t killed like Malfoy, though,” Harry said.
“Did Hermione tell you anything about that?” Neville was looking at him now.
Harry’s first impulse was to deny having spoken to her, as he had done for
months. But the war was over, and everyone had seen her with him and Ron at
the funeral. “We didn’t talk much about it. She said that they weren’t as bad
as Malfoy had been.”
months. But the war was over, and everyone had seen her with him and Ron at
the funeral. “We didn’t talk much about it. She said that they weren’t as bad
as Malfoy had been.”
“Not exactly a rousing endorsement,” Neville said.
“They tried to kill my family,” Ginny said through clenched teeth. “It was
Malfoy’s group who attacked the Burrow. They should be executed!”
Malfoy’s group who attacked the Burrow. They should be executed!”
Neville nodded, no doubt thinking about his dead gran.
Harry made a vague noise. While he didn’t want a repeat of what had happened
after the last war, when Death Eaters had gone free claiming they had been
under the Imperius, he couldn’t help thinking that this was part of what
Dumbledore had warned him about. And a good reason to replace the Wizengamot
with real judges.
after the last war, when Death Eaters had gone free claiming they had been
under the Imperius, he couldn’t help thinking that this was part of what
Dumbledore had warned him about. And a good reason to replace the Wizengamot
with real judges.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 17th, 1997**
Sirius Black made certain to show a neutral expression while he made his way
to his seat in the Wizengamot Chamber. He and his ‘esteemed colleagues’ were
gathering for a trial, after all, and would decide the fate of three accused.
And Sirius knew better than anyone else how important a trial was.
to his seat in the Wizengamot Chamber. He and his ‘esteemed colleagues’ were
gathering for a trial, after all, and would decide the fate of three accused.
And Sirius knew better than anyone else how important a trial was.
He sat down and watched the others file in. Not everyone showed the proper
decorum. Some joked, some glared. Most were chatting. Eric Greengrass was
talking with Cressida Davis. They were smiling.
decorum. Some joked, some glared. Most were chatting. Eric Greengrass was
talking with Cressida Davis. They were smiling.
Sirius frowned for a moment. They had not just pushed for a quick trial, they
had also worked on their allies and acquaintances. Were they truly confident
that the Wizengamot would acquit the three? Three Death Eaters, who had
attacked not just the Burrow, but also a member of the Wizengamot? Barely two
weeks after the death of the Dark Lord himself? And with half the Wizengamot
afraid that the Resistance would start a war against them?
had also worked on their allies and acquaintances. Were they truly confident
that the Wizengamot would acquit the three? Three Death Eaters, who had
attacked not just the Burrow, but also a member of the Wizengamot? Barely two
weeks after the death of the Dark Lord himself? And with half the Wizengamot
afraid that the Resistance would start a war against them?
Would they claim they were under the Imperius? He wouldn’t let them get away
with that. Not after what had happened in 1981.
with that. Not after what had happened in 1981.
Thicknesse, who was once again filling in for the acting Chief Warlock,
entered, and called the chamber to order. As usual, it took a while for
everyone to quiet down. Then whispers and murmuring broke out again once the
three accused were brought in and chained to their chairs. They looked
nervous, at least. Though not shaking quite as much as Sirius had expected —
but then, they were Death Eaters.
entered, and called the chamber to order. As usual, it took a while for
everyone to quiet down. Then whispers and murmuring broke out again once the
three accused were brought in and chained to their chairs. They looked
nervous, at least. Though not shaking quite as much as Sirius had expected —
but then, they were Death Eaters.
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! We have gathered here to pass judgement
over three accused,” Thicknesse started the trial.
over three accused,” Thicknesse started the trial.
Bones’s successor was as diligent as the Minister had been, and the list of
the crimes of which the three Slytherins were accused took a long time to be
read. Multiple counts of attempted murder, conspiracy, treason — all of them
were members of the Wizengamot, even if they were too young to actually hold
the seat — and even underage magic. Sirius didn’t laugh or chuckle at that
accusation, but he was in the minority. That wasn’t a good sign.
the crimes of which the three Slytherins were accused took a long time to be
read. Multiple counts of attempted murder, conspiracy, treason — all of them
were members of the Wizengamot, even if they were too young to actually hold
the seat — and even underage magic. Sirius didn’t laugh or chuckle at that
accusation, but he was in the minority. That wasn’t a good sign.
“Daphne Greengrass, how do you plead?”
“Not guilty!”
Sirius’s eyebrows rose in surprise. He had heard firmer voices, but not many
in that chair.
in that chair.
“Take note that the accused Greengrass pleads ‘not guilty’,” Thicknesse told
the court scribe. “Tracey Davis, how do you plead?”
the court scribe. “Tracey Davis, how do you plead?”
“Not guilty!”
That one spoke firmly as well. Her plea was noted down.
“Theodore Nott, how do you plead?”
“Not guilty!”
And the boy sounded almost defiant.
While the accused were checked for spells and potions, Sirius watched them.
They were putting up a proper facade. That would impress many of his
colleagues. Sirius scoffed. That all of them were purebloods of Old Families,
heads even, was far more important for many of the members. Wouldn’t do to set
a precedent for a case against a member of the Wizengamot, would it?
They were putting up a proper facade. That would impress many of his
colleagues. Sirius scoffed. That all of them were purebloods of Old Families,
heads even, was far more important for many of the members. Wouldn’t do to set
a precedent for a case against a member of the Wizengamot, would it?
“Since all of the accused are still minors, their guardians will speak up in
their defence,” Thicknesse announced. “The chair recognises Mister
Greengrass.”
their defence,” Thicknesse announced. “The chair recognises Mister
Greengrass.”
Sirius saw Eric step down, to stand next to his niece. “Honoured members of
the Wizengamot! My niece here stands accused of many crimes. Heinous crimes,
even! But I tell you: All she has done is what anyone would have done in her
situation. While it is true that she fought for the Dark Lord, she did so
unknowingly, and later unwillingly, a victim of cruel circumstances.”
the Wizengamot! My niece here stands accused of many crimes. Heinous crimes,
even! But I tell you: All she has done is what anyone would have done in her
situation. While it is true that she fought for the Dark Lord, she did so
unknowingly, and later unwillingly, a victim of cruel circumstances.”
“Lies!” one member yelled — Sirius hadn’t seen who.
Greengrass didn’t ignore the shout, but took it up, to Sirius’s surprise.
“Lies? No, it’s the truth! Do you remember the brutal attack on Malfoy Manor?
Among the dozens murdered there were Daphne’s parents — my brother and his
wife. My niece saw the attack, and only survived due to chance, being in the
manor’s garden with her sister and friends at the time the muggleborns
struck.”
“Lies? No, it’s the truth! Do you remember the brutal attack on Malfoy Manor?
Among the dozens murdered there were Daphne’s parents — my brother and his
wife. My niece saw the attack, and only survived due to chance, being in the
manor’s garden with her sister and friends at the time the muggleborns
struck.”
He took a deep breath. “Having lost her parents, my nieces returned, grieving,
to Hogwarts, thinking they were safe there. But they weren’t! Both of them
almost died in that cowardly attack on House Slytherin!”
to Hogwarts, thinking they were safe there. But they weren’t! Both of them
almost died in that cowardly attack on House Slytherin!”
Greengrass ignored the murmurs this time, and went on: “Imagine their
situation: Bereft of their parents, under attack in the school, with the
authorities unable to find the attackers… what would you have done in that
situation? Begged for mercy? Or would you have fought back to defend your
family?
situation: Bereft of their parents, under attack in the school, with the
authorities unable to find the attackers… what would you have done in that
situation? Begged for mercy? Or would you have fought back to defend your
family?
“My niece didn’t know that the group of students she joined was working for
the Dark Lord! All she knew was that muggleborns were attacking her family,
and herself, and she wanted to fight back. Misguided? Naive? Perhaps. But what
kind of wizards and witches would we be, if we did not take up wands when
under attack? Who among us would rather cower then stand up for their family?
the Dark Lord! All she knew was that muggleborns were attacking her family,
and herself, and she wanted to fight back. Misguided? Naive? Perhaps. But what
kind of wizards and witches would we be, if we did not take up wands when
under attack? Who among us would rather cower then stand up for their family?
“What else could she have done? She was a student, she couldn’t have joined
the Aurors or Hit-Wizards. And when she realised just who the group’s leader
was following, it was already too late — we all know what happened to those
who defied the Dark Lord!”
the Aurors or Hit-Wizards. And when she realised just who the group’s leader
was following, it was already too late — we all know what happened to those
who defied the Dark Lord!”
“Like the Boy-Who-Lived?” Doge yelled.
Greengrass glared at the older wizard. “He is an exception. Even Dumbledore
fell to the Dark Lord’s curses. My niece, once she knew who commanded her
group, was trapped. Deserting the Dark Lord would not have just doomed
herself, but her family as well. So she fought on. And yet she neither took
the Dark Mark, nor did she kill anyone. All she did was follow the orders
given to her — orders I doubt many among us would have dared to refuse, had
they been in her place.
fell to the Dark Lord’s curses. My niece, once she knew who commanded her
group, was trapped. Deserting the Dark Lord would not have just doomed
herself, but her family as well. So she fought on. And yet she neither took
the Dark Mark, nor did she kill anyone. All she did was follow the orders
given to her — orders I doubt many among us would have dared to refuse, had
they been in her place.
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! All the crimes my niece has been accused
of were either done with the aim of protecting herself and her sister, or
committed under duress of the highest order. She did nothing anyone else
wouldn’t have done in her place. I urge you to acquit her, so she may, after
two months spent as a prisoner of the Muggleborn Resistance, finally return to
her family!”
of were either done with the aim of protecting herself and her sister, or
committed under duress of the highest order. She did nothing anyone else
wouldn’t have done in her place. I urge you to acquit her, so she may, after
two months spent as a prisoner of the Muggleborn Resistance, finally return to
her family!”
So that was their tactic, Sirius noted. And it was working, as he could tell
from the reactions of the other members. He could have mentioned the fact that
they had used a dark curse on Nigel Nye, a member of the Wizengamot… but then,
that might lead to the revelation that that attack had been set up by
Dumbledore, with the cooperation of Nye himself. Still, the Wizengamot had to
know that letting a Death Eater go would enrage the muggleborns. He rose.
“That’s a fair tale, Mister Greengrass, but there were a lot of tales told
after the last war as well, and we all know how many of those were true.”
from the reactions of the other members. He could have mentioned the fact that
they had used a dark curse on Nigel Nye, a member of the Wizengamot… but then,
that might lead to the revelation that that attack had been set up by
Dumbledore, with the cooperation of Nye himself. Still, the Wizengamot had to
know that letting a Death Eater go would enrage the muggleborns. He rose.
“That’s a fair tale, Mister Greengrass, but there were a lot of tales told
after the last war as well, and we all know how many of those were true.”
“My niece is ready to affirm the truth of her claims with Veritaserum. Though
given her age, and her status as head of my family, she will only do so under
the condition that I am the one to question her, lest others abuse the
opportunity to expose my family’s secrets.”
given her age, and her status as head of my family, she will only do so under
the condition that I am the one to question her, lest others abuse the
opportunity to expose my family’s secrets.”
Sirius had not expected that. Usually, the accused tended to try to use any
excuse to avoid being questioned under Veritaserum. At least those who had not
been prepared for it — but the girl was too young for that; not even Harry,
who had been trained by Dumbledore himself, would be able to withstand
Veritaserum. Was the story Sirius had heard actually true? He doubted it,
still. And yet… would Greengrass dare to offer this, otherwise?
excuse to avoid being questioned under Veritaserum. At least those who had not
been prepared for it — but the girl was too young for that; not even Harry,
who had been trained by Dumbledore himself, would be able to withstand
Veritaserum. Was the story Sirius had heard actually true? He doubted it,
still. And yet… would Greengrass dare to offer this, otherwise?
And the offer alone would impress many, and make others doubt themselves. If
Sirius was allowed to word the questions… but he wasn’t. And Thicknesse wasn’t
even trying to add that caveat. Greengrass must have been expecting this. They
might have made a deal, even.
Sirius was allowed to word the questions… but he wasn’t. And Thicknesse wasn’t
even trying to add that caveat. Greengrass must have been expecting this. They
might have made a deal, even.
Well-played, Sirius thought. Well-played indeed.
---
“Did you know for certain that Draco Malfoy was a Death Eater when you joined
him at Hogwarts?”
him at Hogwarts?”
Daphne Greengrass found it hard to think. Too hard. Everyone had known that
Draco’s father was a follower of the Dark Lord — and Draco had followed his
father blindly. But had she known for certain? He hadn’t come out and said it
until they had left Hogwarts… “No.”
Draco’s father was a follower of the Dark Lord — and Draco had followed his
father blindly. But had she known for certain? He hadn’t come out and said it
until they had left Hogwarts… “No.”
“Is it true that you wanted to leave, but couldn’t, since you feared what the
Dark Lord would do to you?”
Dark Lord would do to you?”
“Yes.”
“There you have it, honoured members of the Wizengamot!”
Daphne felt someone grab her head. “Open your mouth.”
She did — there was no reason not to, was there? Then she swallowed whatever
they had just dropped in her mouth. It tasted terrible. It tasted like…
they had just dropped in her mouth. It tasted terrible. It tasted like…
Daphne shivered when she recovered her wits. That had been a dreadful
experience, her mind clouded by the potion, unable to refuse anything. She
wanted to hug herself, but she was still chained to the chair. She looked up.
Was it over already? Her uncle was smiling at her, but Thicknesse was talking…
experience, her mind clouded by the potion, unable to refuse anything. She
wanted to hug herself, but she was still chained to the chair. She looked up.
Was it over already? Her uncle was smiling at her, but Thicknesse was talking…
“Those in favour of acquittal, raise your wands!”
The chamber brightened as wands were lit. Daphne strained her neck, trying to
count the wands. Was it enough? She couldn’t see the whole chamber from her
seat, the backrest blocked her view. But her uncle was smiling. Did that mean…
count the wands. Was it enough? She couldn’t see the whole chamber from her
seat, the backrest blocked her view. But her uncle was smiling. Did that mean…
“Daphne Greengrass, the Wizengamot has judged you not guilty. Aurors, release
her.”
her.”
She was free. She was free! As soon as her chains were loosened, she rushed to
hug her uncle.
hug her uncle.
Chapter 45: Reactions
=====================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox and fredfred for betaing. Their help has
improved the story a lot.
improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 45: Reactions**
*‘Despite the vocal criticism of Wizarding Britain’s judicial system, mostly
by muggleborns, an unbiased examination of the Wizengamot’s record as
Wizarding Britain’s court would come to the conclusion that it worked very
well. Of course, mistakes were made — although contrary to popular opinion,
the imprisonment of Sirius Black wasn’t the fault of the Wizengamot since he
did not receive a trial — but no system is perfect. Composed of experienced,
educated members, the Wizengamot was not quite as easily swayed as a single
judge, or a small group of judges, nor as prone to forget that a court case
might have ramifications past the immediately obvious ones, unlike those
wizards and witches focused on law enforcement. Some point at the trials
following the Dark Lord’s death as ’proof’ that the system was inherently
corrupt by allowing the Wizengamot to render judgment over its own members. To
that criticism I point at the muggle jury system, which explicitly demands
that an accused be judged by a jury of their peers.’*
by muggleborns, an unbiased examination of the Wizengamot’s record as
Wizarding Britain’s court would come to the conclusion that it worked very
well. Of course, mistakes were made — although contrary to popular opinion,
the imprisonment of Sirius Black wasn’t the fault of the Wizengamot since he
did not receive a trial — but no system is perfect. Composed of experienced,
educated members, the Wizengamot was not quite as easily swayed as a single
judge, or a small group of judges, nor as prone to forget that a court case
might have ramifications past the immediately obvious ones, unlike those
wizards and witches focused on law enforcement. Some point at the trials
following the Dark Lord’s death as ’proof’ that the system was inherently
corrupt by allowing the Wizengamot to render judgment over its own members. To
that criticism I point at the muggle jury system, which explicitly demands
that an accused be judged by a jury of their peers.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 17th, 1997**
“Innocent? They attacked the Burrow! They tried to kill us all! What is the
Wizengamot thinking, releasing those murderers! I’ll go and kill them myself
before they attack us or anyone else again!”
Wizengamot thinking, releasing those murderers! I’ll go and kill them myself
before they attack us or anyone else again!”
Ron Weasley gasped at hearing his mum’s reaction to the news of the trial.
“Mum!” He was angry himself, but he had expected such a result. Hermione had
told him the Resistance was prepared for it.
“Mum!” He was angry himself, but he had expected such a result. Hermione had
told him the Resistance was prepared for it.
“Molly!” Dad grabbed her arms with both hands. “Calm down! You can’t just go
and curse them!”
and curse them!”
“Of course I can! They tried to kill my children! I’ll hex their heads off!”
Ron winced. Mum wasn’t quite shaking Dad off, but he was having trouble
holding on to her. He had rarely seen her like this. Not even when Ginny had
been missing.
holding on to her. He had rarely seen her like this. Not even when Ginny had
been missing.
“You won’t find them. They’ll be cowering in their hidden mansions,” Sirius
cut in. “I doubt they’ll be walking down Diagon Alley any time soon; not with
so many muggleborns back.”
cut in. “I doubt they’ll be walking down Diagon Alley any time soon; not with
so many muggleborns back.”
Ron’s mum turned to glare at Sirius, and for a moment, Ron was afraid she’d
lose her temper at their host. But instead, she closed her eyes and made a
sound somewhere between a sigh and a strangled cry.
lose her temper at their host. But instead, she closed her eyes and made a
sound somewhere between a sigh and a strangled cry.
“How can they do this? It’s a travesty of justice!”
“It’s the Wizengamot,” Ron said. Everyone turned to look at him, and he fought
the urge to flinch. ‘They’ll not condemn their own.’ He shrugged. “We expected
this.”
the urge to flinch. ‘They’ll not condemn their own.’ He shrugged. “We expected
this.”
“I expected a more blatant farce, actually,” Sirius said. “The Veritaserum was
a rather accomplished move that might even convince quite a few people.”
a rather accomplished move that might even convince quite a few people.”
Ron snorted. “Not the muggleborns, and not many of the half-bloods either.
They know better.”
They know better.”
“But many of the purebloods will believe the Wizengamot’s verdict was just,”
his dad said, looking far more tired than Ron had expected. “Veritaserum is a
powerful argument.”
his dad said, looking far more tired than Ron had expected. “Veritaserum is a
powerful argument.”
“It’s all in the wording.” Sirius’s smile lacked any humour. “And that’s
something you can bet the Prophet will not report accurately. Word of mouth
will simplify it to ‘Veritaserum confirmed their innocence’.”
something you can bet the Prophet will not report accurately. Word of mouth
will simplify it to ‘Veritaserum confirmed their innocence’.”
“That’s… that’s…” Ron’s mum was fuming again. “How could they do this?”
Sirius shrugged. “They played the Wizengamot almost perfectly. Although I
think Thicknesse was in on it — he was remarkably agreeable to Greengrass’s
demands. On the other hand, he is a shrewd politician, so he probably just saw
which way the wind was blowing.”
think Thicknesse was in on it — he was remarkably agreeable to Greengrass’s
demands. On the other hand, he is a shrewd politician, so he probably just saw
which way the wind was blowing.”
“The Resistance will still spread the truth about this,” Ron said.
“Oh, yes.” Sirius grinned. “I’ll be sending her an exact transcript of the
session.”
session.”
“You have a Pensieve?” Ron’s dad looked surprised.
“Dumbledore left his to us,” Sirius said. “We can certainly use it more than
Hogwarts.”
Hogwarts.”
“As long as something is being done!” Mum was shaking her head. “This cannot
continue! They’ll let all those murderers go, just like last time!”
continue! They’ll let all those murderers go, just like last time!”
“If they do, there’ll be another war,” Sirius said. “Or rather, they’ll find
out that the war’s not over yet,” he added with a grin.
out that the war’s not over yet,” he added with a grin.
Ron thought that Sirius sounded as if he would prefer that.
---
**Hogwarts, February 17th, 1997**
“… thank you, Sirius. Goodbye.”
Harry Potter, sitting on his bed in the Gryffindor dorms, sighed while he
stashed the mirror in his pocket again. The three Slytherins had been
acquitted. It wasn’t exactly a surprise, but… part of him had hoped that the
Wizengamot would finally show some sense and not fall for their stories. It
looked like the Old Families were still refusing to see reason.
stashed the mirror in his pocket again. The three Slytherins had been
acquitted. It wasn’t exactly a surprise, but… part of him had hoped that the
Wizengamot would finally show some sense and not fall for their stories. It
looked like the Old Families were still refusing to see reason.
He heard yelling from the common room and realised that the wireless had to
have broadcast the news as well. Even if he stayed in his room, others would
come and ask him about the trials. Better to set the record straight right
away — he was all too familiar with Hogwarts’ rumour mill.
have broadcast the news as well. Even if he stayed in his room, others would
come and ask him about the trials. Better to set the record straight right
away — he was all too familiar with Hogwarts’ rumour mill.
He was barely halfway down the stairs when he met Ginny coming up. “Harry! I
was just coming to get you! They announced that Greengrass, Davies and Nott
have been acquitted!”
was just coming to get you! They announced that Greengrass, Davies and Nott
have been acquitted!”
“I heard.” He smiled. “It’s no surprise.”
She pouted. “I know, but still… do you think they’ll return to Hogwarts?”
He shook his head. “I doubt it.” Unless they were so delusional that they
thought everyone would follow the Wizengamot’s lead. Or the Ministry took
control of Hogwarts and stuffed it full of Aurors. Pureblood Aurors.
thought everyone would follow the Wizengamot’s lead. Or the Ministry took
control of Hogwarts and stuffed it full of Aurors. Pureblood Aurors.
They reached the common room, and as soon as Harry entered, it seemed everyone
present wanted to tell him about the verdicts. He raised his arms. “Calm down,
everyone! I already heard about it!” To his slight surprise, the room quieted
down after a few moments.
present wanted to tell him about the verdicts. He raised his arms. “Calm down,
everyone! I already heard about it!” To his slight surprise, the room quieted
down after a few moments.
“What do you think of this?” Neville asked.
The boy looked very tense, but seemed to control himself, Harry thought.
Although he couldn’t tell what Neville was thinking. Not without using
Legilimency… he buried that thought quickly, then took a deep breath. “Did
anyone really expect that the Wizengamot would find those three guilty? They
haven’t even tried to prosecute Astoria Greengrass, despite her attack on our
third years.” He saw a few of the Gryffindors of that year shudder.
Although he couldn’t tell what Neville was thinking. Not without using
Legilimency… he buried that thought quickly, then took a deep breath. “Did
anyone really expect that the Wizengamot would find those three guilty? They
haven’t even tried to prosecute Astoria Greengrass, despite her attack on our
third years.” He saw a few of the Gryffindors of that year shudder.
“But they were questioned under Veritaserum!” Romilda said.
“The questions were asked by their proxies and guardians,” Harry answered.
‘And carefully worded. But even if it were true that they had been afraid for
their lives, they could have run away from the Dark Lord and gone into hiding.
You know how well that worked for so many others. They were not forced to
fight.’ He scoffed. “They almost died attacking the Weasleys’ home” — he heard
Ginny almost growl next to him — “so they knew that staying with the Dark Lord
and fighting was dangerous as well, but did they flee then? No.” He shook his
head. “They were acquitted because they were the heirs of their families and
members of the Wizengamot.”
‘And carefully worded. But even if it were true that they had been afraid for
their lives, they could have run away from the Dark Lord and gone into hiding.
You know how well that worked for so many others. They were not forced to
fight.’ He scoffed. “They almost died attacking the Weasleys’ home” — he heard
Ginny almost growl next to him — “so they knew that staying with the Dark Lord
and fighting was dangerous as well, but did they flee then? No.” He shook his
head. “They were acquitted because they were the heirs of their families and
members of the Wizengamot.”
That caused more yelling. Neville was one of the few who didn’t say anything,
pressing his lips together.
pressing his lips together.
“Will they let all of the Death Eaters go?” A third year asked, trembling. Her
friends hugged her.
friends hugged her.
“Most of the Death Eaters are dead,” Harry said. Belatedly, he realised that
smiling encouragingly while saying such a thing might look a bit… odd.
smiling encouragingly while saying such a thing might look a bit… odd.
“But not all of them!” The little witch — a muggleborn, Harry thought, she was
wearing jeans under her robes — tried to compose herself. “And the Slytherins?
Will they return to Hogwarts?”
wearing jeans under her robes — tried to compose herself. “And the Slytherins?
Will they return to Hogwarts?”
Ginny snorted, and mumbled something under her breath that Harry was certain
would earn her a chore should her mum overhear it. He shrugged. “I doubt it.”
Some had been killed, like Malfoy and his friends. “But even if some do, we’re
prepared. They’ll not be able to do anything to us.”
would earn her a chore should her mum overhear it. He shrugged. “I doubt it.”
Some had been killed, like Malfoy and his friends. “But even if some do, we’re
prepared. They’ll not be able to do anything to us.”
“What if they send Aurors?” Will Banks asked.
Harry knew that the muggleborn third year had been afraid of the Ministry ever
since he had been used to sabotage the Slytherin Quidditch Pitch stands. With
good reason, he thought — if not for Dumbledore, the boy would have likely
been punished for it. Harry smiled confidently. “They don’t have many Aurors
left, and they need them elsewhere. And they have even less skilled Aurors
left. If they try to take over Hogwarts… well, there are a lot of people who
would object to that.”
since he had been used to sabotage the Slytherin Quidditch Pitch stands. With
good reason, he thought — if not for Dumbledore, the boy would have likely
been punished for it. Harry smiled confidently. “They don’t have many Aurors
left, and they need them elsewhere. And they have even less skilled Aurors
left. If they try to take over Hogwarts… well, there are a lot of people who
would object to that.”
“Like the Resistance!” The third year witch wasn’t trembling any more.
“Yes,” Harry said. “And many more. We won’t let the Ministry push us around
any more!”
any more!”
The yells and shouts filling the common room were even louder this time. Harry
kept smiling, though for all he believed his words, he hoped that the
Wizengamot would cave in, and soon.
kept smiling, though for all he believed his words, he hoped that the
Wizengamot would cave in, and soon.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 17th, 1997**
Hermione Granger walked along Diagon Alley with her wand in hand and her rifle
slung on her back. Justin was behind her, his rifle in hand, while Sally-Anne
was in front, pulling a rolled up paper out of her enchanted bag. A flick of
her wand later, a poster was stuck to the wall next to the entrance to
‘Jamie’s Jellies’.
slung on her back. Justin was behind her, his rifle in hand, while Sally-Anne
was in front, pulling a rolled up paper out of her enchanted bag. A flick of
her wand later, a poster was stuck to the wall next to the entrance to
‘Jamie’s Jellies’.
*Wizengamot lets Death Eaters go unpunished!* was followed by a picture of
Lucius Malfoy, with *‘1981: I was under the Imperius!’* superimposed over it
on the left side, and a picture of the laughing Theo Nott with the caption
*‘1997: I was too afraid to stop fighting’* on the right side. And at the
bottom: *‘They persecute muggleborns, and protect Death Eaters! It’s time for
a change!’*
Lucius Malfoy, with *‘1981: I was under the Imperius!’* superimposed over it
on the left side, and a picture of the laughing Theo Nott with the caption
*‘1997: I was too afraid to stop fighting’* on the right side. And at the
bottom: *‘They persecute muggleborns, and protect Death Eaters! It’s time for
a change!’*
Sally-Anne stuck a leaflet with a more detailed — but not too detailed, just
enough to counter the Veritaserum excuse — description of the trial next to it
right when a man stepped out of the shop.
enough to counter the Veritaserum excuse — description of the trial next to it
right when a man stepped out of the shop.
“Hey, what are…” he broke off and closed his mouth when he saw their uniforms,
then turned around and disappeared back into the shop without a further word.
then turned around and disappeared back into the shop without a further word.
Hermione shook her head, wondering if the man had a guilty conscience, or was
just afraid of the Resistance because he believed the Prophet. Another poster
and leaflet later, they turned around a corner and entered the main part of
Diagon Alley. Their appearance was noticed almost at once by the people on the
street.
just afraid of the Resistance because he believed the Prophet. Another poster
and leaflet later, they turned around a corner and entered the main part of
Diagon Alley. Their appearance was noticed almost at once by the people on the
street.
“It’s the Resistance!”
The crowd started to move towards them, eager faces and muggle clothes
revealing them as muggleborns.
revealing them as muggleborns.
“They’re here!”
“Look at them!”
Hermione forced herself to keep smiling, even though she felt rather tense —
it would be easy for someone to hide in the crowd and send a curse at her or
the others, and their Shield Charms wouldn’t stop everything. Tania and
Seamus, both disillusioned, were flying above them, keeping an eye out, but
they too would not be perfect. And the Human-presence-revealing Spell was
pretty much useless in a crowd.
it would be easy for someone to hide in the crowd and send a curse at her or
the others, and their Shield Charms wouldn’t stop everything. Tania and
Seamus, both disillusioned, were flying above them, keeping an eye out, but
they too would not be perfect. And the Human-presence-revealing Spell was
pretty much useless in a crowd.
She held up a hand. “Please give us some space.” She pulled a leaflet out of
her own pocket and cast a Doubling Charm, then sent the leaflets up in the
air, and above the gathering people. The people stopped crowding the
Resistance in favour of grabbing the leaflets, but that relief didn’t last
long — as soon as they had skimmed the contents, they turned towards them
again.
her own pocket and cast a Doubling Charm, then sent the leaflets up in the
air, and above the gathering people. The people stopped crowding the
Resistance in favour of grabbing the leaflets, but that relief didn’t last
long — as soon as they had skimmed the contents, they turned towards them
again.
“This is an outrage!” one man, about thirty years old — it was harder to tell
with wizards — yelled. “We need to do something!” His next words were drowned
out by the crowd.
with wizards — yelled. “We need to do something!” His next words were drowned
out by the crowd.
Hermione cast an Amplifying Charm to be heard over the shouting. “We are doing
something!”
something!”
She had to repeat herself twice before the noise died down. “It’s time to show
the Ministry and the Wizengamot that we will not accept being ruled by an
aristocracy! We didn’t beat the Death Eaters just to bow to the very
Wizengamot that persecuted us! We demand a democratically elected Wizengamot!”
She took a deep breath. “We’ll be holding protests and rallies soon, as more
and more muggleborns return to Wizarding Britain! Watch out for leaflets and
listen to the Resistance Radio! Spread the news — we will not submit! Blood
doesn’t matter!” she yelled at the end, the spell carrying her voice over the
Alley.
the Ministry and the Wizengamot that we will not accept being ruled by an
aristocracy! We didn’t beat the Death Eaters just to bow to the very
Wizengamot that persecuted us! We demand a democratically elected Wizengamot!”
She took a deep breath. “We’ll be holding protests and rallies soon, as more
and more muggleborns return to Wizarding Britain! Watch out for leaflets and
listen to the Resistance Radio! Spread the news — we will not submit! Blood
doesn’t matter!” she yelled at the end, the spell carrying her voice over the
Alley.
The crowd took up the words. “Blood doesn’t matter! Blood doesn’t matter!”
For a moment, Hermione basked in the crowd’s approval, more certain than ever
that they would win, that they would reform Wizarding Britain. Then she heard
Seamus over the radio: “Watch out, Aurors closing in from the North!”
that they would win, that they would reform Wizarding Britain. Then she heard
Seamus over the radio: “Watch out, Aurors closing in from the North!”
“Hold fire!” she said through the throat microphone, moving forward.
The crowd parted in front of her, to her own surprise, and she saw two — no,
four — Aurors approach, wands out. The crowd noticed them too — they hadn’t
posted rear guards — and the mood quickly grew worse, with wands being drawn
and even aimed.
four — Aurors approach, wands out. The crowd noticed them too — they hadn’t
posted rear guards — and the mood quickly grew worse, with wands being drawn
and even aimed.
The Aurors — all of them so young, Hermione recognised three of them who had
been two years above her at Hogwarts — stopped about ten yards away. They
looked nervous, no, afraid even. Their leader, barely older than the rest,
took a step forward. “What’s going on here?”
been two years above her at Hogwarts — stopped about ten yards away. They
looked nervous, no, afraid even. Their leader, barely older than the rest,
took a step forward. “What’s going on here?”
Hermione held up her left hand, quieting the crowd down, as she met his eyes.
“We’re passing out leaflets and putting up posters.” She didn’t want to
escalate matters, but she would not budge if the Aurors tried to stop them.
She couldn’t — she’d lose all the influence she had over the crowd if she did
that.
“We’re passing out leaflets and putting up posters.” She didn’t want to
escalate matters, but she would not budge if the Aurors tried to stop them.
She couldn’t — she’d lose all the influence she had over the crowd if she did
that.
Sally-Anne stepped closer to Hermione. She had stashed her posters and
leaflets, and her wand was out, but at her side. Out of the corner of her eye,
Hermione saw Justin step to the side so he’d have a clear line of fire.
Fortunately, the crowd was not moving forward, but holding where they stood.
As riled up as the muggleborns were, it wouldn’t take much to start a fight.
leaflets, and her wand was out, but at her side. Out of the corner of her eye,
Hermione saw Justin step to the side so he’d have a clear line of fire.
Fortunately, the crowd was not moving forward, but holding where they stood.
As riled up as the muggleborns were, it wouldn’t take much to start a fight.
Fortunately, the leader of the Aurors must have realised that as well, since
he pressed his lips together and turned around. “Let’s go!”
he pressed his lips together and turned around. “Let’s go!”
The rest of the group followed him, but Hermione saw that they were looking
over their shoulders, as if they expected an attack any moment. And yet they
were not in a defensive formation — though she suspected that this was due to
lack of training and experience, and not a deliberate decision.
over their shoulders, as if they expected an attack any moment. And yet they
were not in a defensive formation — though she suspected that this was due to
lack of training and experience, and not a deliberate decision.
Once they had turned around the next corner, Hermione relaxed. If that had
gone wrong… She turned to address the crowd again. “Spread the word! We’re not
submitting! We’re not going away! We demand democracy! Blood doesn’t matter!”
gone wrong… She turned to address the crowd again. “Spread the word! We’re not
submitting! We’re not going away! We demand democracy! Blood doesn’t matter!”
“Blood doesn’t matter!”
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 17th, 1997**
Amelia Bones checked the clock on the wall of her office and frowned. It was
getting too late again. She had worse hours as Minister than she had had as
Head of the DMLE. It couldn’t be helped, though. Not with the situation the
Ministry found itself in following the trials of Greengrass, Davis and Nott.
The acquittal of those three hadn’t been received well by everyone.
getting too late again. She had worse hours as Minister than she had had as
Head of the DMLE. It couldn’t be helped, though. Not with the situation the
Ministry found itself in following the trials of Greengrass, Davis and Nott.
The acquittal of those three hadn’t been received well by everyone.
Amelia knew that the questions asked while the three were under the influence
of Veritaserum had been very carefully phrased. If she had conducted the
questioning, then she would have asked more and different questions.
Nevertheless, the trial had been conducted correctly, and if the Wizengamot
ruled that the accused had acted under duress, and were not to be punished for
what they had done and admitted to, then that was the verdict people would
have to accept. She would never let public opinion, much less a vocal
minority, dictate sentences. Even though she couldn’t help feeling that
Britain’s situation wouldn’t be as dire as it currently was if the Wizengamot
had taken a harsher stance towards Death Eaters after the last war, she would
never condone vigilante ‘justice’.
of Veritaserum had been very carefully phrased. If she had conducted the
questioning, then she would have asked more and different questions.
Nevertheless, the trial had been conducted correctly, and if the Wizengamot
ruled that the accused had acted under duress, and were not to be punished for
what they had done and admitted to, then that was the verdict people would
have to accept. She would never let public opinion, much less a vocal
minority, dictate sentences. Even though she couldn’t help feeling that
Britain’s situation wouldn’t be as dire as it currently was if the Wizengamot
had taken a harsher stance towards Death Eaters after the last war, she would
never condone vigilante ‘justice’.
A knock at the door interrupted her thoughts.
“Yes?”
Her secretary opened the door and peered inside. “Mister Thicknesse and Head
Auror Dawlish are here, ma’am.”
Auror Dawlish are here, ma’am.”
Amelia suppressed a sigh. They wouldn’t bother her, not at this hour, if it
wasn’t important. “Send them in.”
wasn’t important. “Send them in.”
The two wizards entered, and she waved at the chairs in front of her desk.
“Please have a seat.”
“Please have a seat.”
“Thank you, Amelia,” Pius said. “There was an incident today, in Diagon
Alley.”
Alley.”
Amelia sat straighter. “What happened?”
Dawlish handed over a scroll of parchment and a roll of paper. “An Auror
patrol encountered a group of Resistance members putting up posters and
handing out leaflets. There was a crowd of muggleborns with them.”
patrol encountered a group of Resistance members putting up posters and
handing out leaflets. There was a crowd of muggleborns with them.”
She quickly read the parchment, her anger growing, then looked at the poster
and leaflet. “They were prepared for this. They expected the verdict.” Granger
had been ready to plaster this filth all over the Alley.
and leaflet. “They were prepared for this. They expected the verdict.” Granger
had been ready to plaster this filth all over the Alley.
Pius, ever the politician, nodded. “I’d even say that they wanted the
Wizengamot to acquit the three.”
Wizengamot to acquit the three.”
He was correct. “They’ll use this to rile up the muggleborns.” Amelia clenched
her teeth.
her teeth.
“They didn’t attack the patrol,” Dawlish said.
“They were probably hoping that the Aurors would attack them.” Pius was
smiling faintly.
smiling faintly.
“I don’t think so.” Amelia shook her head. “They are not yet ready for an open
conflict. The muggleborns who left Wizarding Britain last year are still in
the process of returning. Granger will want to recruit more of them to replace
her losses too.” And today’s verdict would help them — the muggleborns didn’t
trust the Ministry, and would believe the Resistance’s propaganda over anyone
else.
conflict. The muggleborns who left Wizarding Britain last year are still in
the process of returning. Granger will want to recruit more of them to replace
her losses too.” And today’s verdict would help them — the muggleborns didn’t
trust the Ministry, and would believe the Resistance’s propaganda over anyone
else.
“Should we let them do this?” Dawlish asked. “How’s our own recruiting?”
Pius lost his smile. “We haven’t been able to recruit as many suitable wizards
and witches as we’d like. I’ve spoken with a few members of the Wizengamot,
asking them to impress upon their extended family just how much the Ministry
needs trusted employees. The situation should improve in the summer, when the
current seventh years graduate, but until then…” He sighed and spread his
hands.
and witches as we’d like. I’ve spoken with a few members of the Wizengamot,
asking them to impress upon their extended family just how much the Ministry
needs trusted employees. The situation should improve in the summer, when the
current seventh years graduate, but until then…” He sighed and spread his
hands.
Dawlish frowned. “What about hiring more muggleborns and half-bloods?”
Amelia raised her eyebrows and exchanged a glance with Pius. Dawlish knew what
Pius had meant by ‘suitable candidates’ — loyal purebloods. Had he talked with
Weasley? Was this another plot? “Their loyalty is a concern,” she said.
Pius had meant by ‘suitable candidates’ — loyal purebloods. Had he talked with
Weasley? Was this another plot? “Their loyalty is a concern,” she said.
Dawlish nodded. “I know. But on the other hand, having muggleborns in the
Corps would improve our reputation among the other muggleborns, and defuse the
tension somewhat. The Resistance would also have to worry about their loyalty,
and any talented muggleborn joining the Corps is one the Resistance can’t
train.”
Corps would improve our reputation among the other muggleborns, and defuse the
tension somewhat. The Resistance would also have to worry about their loyalty,
and any talented muggleborn joining the Corps is one the Resistance can’t
train.”
“Would you trust them?” Pius asked, sneering slightly at his subordinate.
“It’s not as if we can require an Unbreakable Vow from them, and we all know
how many traitors we had within our ranks. And how that turned out.”
“It’s not as if we can require an Unbreakable Vow from them, and we all know
how many traitors we had within our ranks. And how that turned out.”
Dawlish flushed, but didn’t give in. “We aren’t at war with the muggleborns.
The situation is tense, especially with the way they are retaking their old
homes, but we just fought together against the Dark Lord, and they haven’t
attacked the Ministry or the Aurors.”
The situation is tense, especially with the way they are retaking their old
homes, but we just fought together against the Dark Lord, and they haven’t
attacked the Ministry or the Aurors.”
“Not yet,” Pius said. “But once they are ready…”
“We’re not ready for a war either,” Dawlish said. “And if it comes to a war,
it’s not just the loyalty of muggleborns we would have to worry about.”
it’s not just the loyalty of muggleborns we would have to worry about.”
Dawlish was showing more political awareness than Amelia had expected. He
probably was talking to some of Dumbledore’s old friends and followers. Maybe
Weasley, or even Black, she thought. “The muggleborns are breaking the law by
forcing people out of their homes. That is something the Ministry cannot
ignore.”
probably was talking to some of Dumbledore’s old friends and followers. Maybe
Weasley, or even Black, she thought. “The muggleborns are breaking the law by
forcing people out of their homes. That is something the Ministry cannot
ignore.”
“If we intervene, we might start a war. And we don’t have the wands to
intervene, much less fight a war,” Dawlish said.
intervene, much less fight a war,” Dawlish said.
“Our duty is to enforce the law. If you feel you are incapable or unwilling to
do your duty, then I’ll accept your resignation,” Amelia said in a clipped
tone. The Ministry had no need for cowards or traitors. Especially not in the
current situation.
do your duty, then I’ll accept your resignation,” Amelia said in a clipped
tone. The Ministry had no need for cowards or traitors. Especially not in the
current situation.
“If you wish that we intervene against the muggleborns taking over shops in
Diagon Alley with our current strength, then we will have to strip the
Ministry and Hogsmeade details of almost everyone. Otherwise, we will not have
the numbers to do anything,” Dawlish said, staring at her. “I’ll need a direct
order to prioritise this task above guarding the Ministry and the Wizengamot.”
Diagon Alley with our current strength, then we will have to strip the
Ministry and Hogsmeade details of almost everyone. Otherwise, we will not have
the numbers to do anything,” Dawlish said, staring at her. “I’ll need a direct
order to prioritise this task above guarding the Ministry and the Wizengamot.”
Amelia glared at him. He was well aware that she couldn’t give that order. The
Wizengamot would never allow it. He was undermining her, she realised. Was he
working with Pius? She glanced at the Head of the DMLE. He was frowning as
well. She knew that they didn’t have the numbers to do this, but they couldn’t
let it go either. “If we don’t enforce the law, then that will encourage the
muggleborns to push further.”
Wizengamot would never allow it. He was undermining her, she realised. Was he
working with Pius? She glanced at the Head of the DMLE. He was frowning as
well. She knew that they didn’t have the numbers to do this, but they couldn’t
let it go either. “If we don’t enforce the law, then that will encourage the
muggleborns to push further.”
“They’re already demanding changes in the Wizengamot,” Pius said. “Unless the
Wizengamot agrees to their demands, a confrontation is unavoidable.”
Wizengamot agrees to their demands, a confrontation is unavoidable.”
“If the Ministry is to go to war against the muggleborns, then we can’t count
on all our Aurors and Hit-Wizards,” Dawlish said.
on all our Aurors and Hit-Wizards,” Dawlish said.
“You don’t trust all of your Aurors, and yet you want to recruit more whose
loyalty is questionable?” Pius asked. He was acting a bit too offended, Amelia
thought — it was his department, and ultimately his responsibility, after all.
loyalty is questionable?” Pius asked. He was acting a bit too offended, Amelia
thought — it was his department, and ultimately his responsibility, after all.
“If all we can recruit are fresh graduates from Hogwarts while the muggleborns
get the pick of the experienced Aurors and Hit-Wizards that left the Corps as
well as their share of the fresh graduates, then the Ministry’s situation will
not improve over time.” Dawlish winced. “My people aren’t too happy about the
Wizengamot’s judgement either.”
get the pick of the experienced Aurors and Hit-Wizards that left the Corps as
well as their share of the fresh graduates, then the Ministry’s situation will
not improve over time.” Dawlish winced. “My people aren’t too happy about the
Wizengamot’s judgement either.”
“Aurors never are happy when someone they arrested gets acquitted,” Amelia
said. She knew that from personal experience.
said. She knew that from personal experience.
“That is true, but this goes beyond the usual grumbling. And these aren’t
helping matters,” Dawlish pointed at the poster and leaflet on Amelia’s desk.
“The Corps knows that the trial wasn’t exactly…” he trailed off.
helping matters,” Dawlish pointed at the poster and leaflet on Amelia’s desk.
“The Corps knows that the trial wasn’t exactly…” he trailed off.
“Exactly what?” Amelia asked. “The Wizengamot conducted the trial according to
the law. Pius can confirm that.”
the law. Pius can confirm that.”
Pius nodded.
Dawlish held his tongue, but she thought it took him some effort. “Do you have
anything else to add?” she asked, staring at him.
anything else to add?” she asked, staring at him.
“No, ma’am.”
“Very well. I have a few things to discuss with Pius that do not concern you.”
She dismissed him with a nod.
She dismissed him with a nod.
Dawlish glanced at Pius for a moment, then nodded and left her office. Once
the door had closed behind him, Amelia sighed. “We not only do not have enough
Aurors and Hit-Wizards to do our duty, but those we have are unreliable. And
our long-term prospects are worse.”
the door had closed behind him, Amelia sighed. “We not only do not have enough
Aurors and Hit-Wizards to do our duty, but those we have are unreliable. And
our long-term prospects are worse.”
“That is an accurate summary of the situation,” Pius said, his face a polite
facade.
facade.
“Did you explain this to the Wizengamot members you talked with?” Amelia
asked.
asked.
“I mentioned my concerns about the lack of trusted Aurors and Hit-Wizards,”
Pius said. He was smiling faintly again.
Pius said. He was smiling faintly again.
“And what did they say?” Amelia knew that Pius wouldn’t have talked to those
too stupid to understand the situation; even if he wanted her to fail so he
could succeed her he knew that they were likely to lose a war should it start
now.
too stupid to understand the situation; even if he wanted her to fail so he
could succeed her he knew that they were likely to lose a war should it start
now.
“They acknowledged the problems we are facing.” Pius’s smile vanished again.
“But they couldn’t offer much to the Ministry. There aren’t that many capable
purebloods left.”
“But they couldn’t offer much to the Ministry. There aren’t that many capable
purebloods left.”
“Enough to matter,” Amelia said. “They’re not willing to risk their heirs and
close family.”
close family.”
“Yes.” He hesitated for a moment, then went on: “But there’s more. They hinted
at looking for help abroad.”
at looking for help abroad.”
Amelia hissed. “Mercenaries?” The Wizengamot was unlikely to ask another
country for help; too many countries would jump at the opportunity to squeeze
concessions out of Britain after decades of Dumbledore pushing them around.
country for help; too many countries would jump at the opportunity to squeeze
concessions out of Britain after decades of Dumbledore pushing them around.
“Yes. Ostensibly to protect their families, but…” he shook his head.
“More vigilantes.” She pressed her lips together.
“The French created a precedent when they arrived to help Dumbledore.”
“But the muggleborns will jump on that.” Amelia could imagine the leaflets
they’d print. “Will they be able to hire enough to even the odds?”
they’d print. “Will they be able to hire enough to even the odds?”
“I don’t think so. The Dark Lord himself had trouble recruiting mercenaries.
With the record of the Resistance in the war, most of the experienced
mercenaries would demand a lot of gold to risk their lives going up against
them.”
With the record of the Resistance in the war, most of the experienced
mercenaries would demand a lot of gold to risk their lives going up against
them.”
Too much even for most of the Old Families, Amelia thought. “There’ll still be
enough to cause trouble.”
enough to cause trouble.”
“Yes.” Pius seemed to hesitate, then straightened. “Other countries might try
to use this to meddle in Britain. Many of them are concerned about the
muggleborns.”
to use this to meddle in Britain. Many of them are concerned about the
muggleborns.”
Amelia narrowed her eyes. “That would likely push the muggleborns to return
the favour.” She considered how fanatical Granger was. “They might already be
planning to do that.” And that could start another war on the scale of
Grindelwald’s War.
the favour.” She considered how fanatical Granger was. “They might already be
planning to do that.” And that could start another war on the scale of
Grindelwald’s War.
“They focused on the Death Eaters during the war, not the Ministry. And they
haven’t attacked the Ministry. Not directly. I don’t think that they want
another war.”
haven’t attacked the Ministry. Not directly. I don’t think that they want
another war.”
“Do you think that they’ll back down if the Wizengamot stands firm?” Amelia
watched him. He hadn’t seemed to support his Head Auror, but the two had
arrived together, and he was Dawlish’s superior. If Pius was leaning towards
making a deal with the Resistance…
watched him. He hadn’t seemed to support his Head Auror, but the two had
arrived together, and he was Dawlish’s superior. If Pius was leaning towards
making a deal with the Resistance…
“I don’t know. Would they really rather start another war instead of accepting
the status quo ante?”
the status quo ante?”
That was a question Amelia didn’t think anyone but the Resistance could
answer. And there was another question. “If they did, would the Wizengamot
believe it?”
answer. And there was another question. “If they did, would the Wizengamot
believe it?”
Pius didn’t look like he’d be smiling again any time soon.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 17th, 1997**
Ron Weasley was about to eat a sandwich in Sirius’s kitchen when he heard a
crash from the hallway, followed by hissed curses. He had drawn his wand
before he recognised the voice. “Tonks?”
crash from the hallway, followed by hissed curses. He had drawn his wand
before he recognised the voice. “Tonks?”
“Shh!” The young Auror entered, limping slightly. “Nothing happened. The pot
wasn’t damaged.”
wasn’t damaged.”
“If you say so.” Ron shook his head. He checked his watch. It was close to
midnight. “Late shift?”
midnight. “Late shift?”
“I wish! Dawlish made me do overtime by burying me in orders!” Tonks frowned,
taking a seat at the table. “Where’s Kreacher?”
taking a seat at the table. “Where’s Kreacher?”
“Probably off cleaning or something,” Ron said. The house-elf was remarkably
apt at avoiding guests he didn’t like — which included both ‘blood traitors’
and half-bloods — unless specifically ordered to assist by Sirius.
apt at avoiding guests he didn’t like — which included both ‘blood traitors’
and half-bloods — unless specifically ordered to assist by Sirius.
Tonks snorted. “As if!” She summoned some bread and then raided the dishes Ron
had taken from the icebox to make her own sandwich. “Third time in a row I get
a cold midnight dinner thanks to that b… Bones.”
had taken from the icebox to make her own sandwich. “Third time in a row I get
a cold midnight dinner thanks to that b… Bones.”
“You could get some muggle money and get takeout,” Ron said, finishing his
sandwich.
sandwich.
Tonks narrowed her eyes at him, then focused on her sandwich.
He shrugged. She probably just wanted to vent a bit. “Was Bones mad about the
verdict?”
verdict?”
“Hard to tell,” Tonks said between bites. “We don’t exactly see her much since
she’s not the Head of the DMLE any more. But she’s been an Auror; I can’t see
any Auror being happy about the verdict.”
she’s not the Head of the DMLE any more. But she’s been an Auror; I can’t see
any Auror being happy about the verdict.”
“Really?” Ron was sceptical.
She rolled her eyes. “I mean, not any current Auror.”
“Ah.”
The eye-rolling turned into a glare. “The Corps has lost a lot of Aurors
fighting the Dark Lord. They don’t like to see any of his followers get off.”
fighting the Dark Lord. They don’t like to see any of his followers get off.”
The Ministry had lost a lot of Aurors fighting the Resistance too, Ron knew.
He didn’t mention that, though. It was a sensitive subject. “They won’t be too
happy with the Wizengamot then — they aren’t finished yet.”
He didn’t mention that, though. It was a sensitive subject. “They won’t be too
happy with the Wizengamot then — they aren’t finished yet.”
“There aren’t many prisoners left,” Tonks said, glancing at him before she
grabbed some pumpkin juice.
grabbed some pumpkin juice.
“But quite a lot of Wizengamot members who were supporters of the Dark Lord.”
That earned him another glare. “You can’t arrest a member of the Wizengamot
without permission from the Wizengamot. Not unless you catch them in
flagrante.”
without permission from the Wizengamot. Not unless you catch them in
flagrante.”
“Huh?”
“Not unless you catch them while they are committing a crime.”
“That doesn’t sound like a good system,” Ron said.
“It’s better than the Minister being able to have any Wizengamot member they
want arrested,” Tonks said.
want arrested,” Tonks said.
Not by much, he thought. He shrugged and refilled his glass with juice. “Looks
like changes are needed.”
like changes are needed.”
“I saw the leaflets. Thicknesse wasn’t happy about them.”
“Well, it’s true. If the Wizengamot continues with this, there’ll be trouble.”
Ron put the juice down and looked straight at her.
Ron put the juice down and looked straight at her.
“Another war?” She scoffed. “I’m just about the last Auror of my year. Do you
really want more deaths?”
really want more deaths?”
He shrugged. “It’s only a war if the Wizengamot can find enough idiots to die
for them.”
for them.”
She stared at him, her lips forming a thin line. “I get enough of that from
your father. I’m not about to fight the Resistance, unless they turn into
crazy murderers. But I’m not about to stab my friends in the back — none of my
friends.”
your father. I’m not about to fight the Resistance, unless they turn into
crazy murderers. But I’m not about to stab my friends in the back — none of my
friends.”
“Good enough,” Ron said.
They finished their midnight snacks in silence.
---
**Hogwarts, February 18th, 1997**
Harry Potter was in the middle of breakfast in the Great Hall when the owls
arrived with the morning post — and with the latest issues of the Daily
Prophet. Soon, owls carrying rolled up newspapers and letters were landing on
the tables, and hands reached for purses. One brown owl almost crashed into
his plate, avoiding his tea cup with an awkward hop, before Neville reached
over from his side of the table, grabbed it and pulled the newspaper off.
arrived with the morning post — and with the latest issues of the Daily
Prophet. Soon, owls carrying rolled up newspapers and letters were landing on
the tables, and hands reached for purses. One brown owl almost crashed into
his plate, avoiding his tea cup with an awkward hop, before Neville reached
over from his side of the table, grabbed it and pulled the newspaper off.
“They’re worse than Errol,” he heard Ginny, sitting next to Neville, mumble.
Harry didn’t comment — he was watching Neville skim over the article. It
didn’t take long until Neville threw the newspaper down on the table, sending
a breadbasket sliding, and grinding his teeth. “They let them go!”
didn’t take long until Neville threw the newspaper down on the table, sending
a breadbasket sliding, and grinding his teeth. “They let them go!”
“We already knew that from the wireless,” Ginny said, then flinched when
Neville glared at her.
Neville glared at her.
He grabbed the newspaper again, and stabbed the front page with his finger.
“We didn’t see them smile! Look at them, acting as if they were innocent!
That’s… that’s…” Neville shook his head, apparently at a loss for words.
“We didn’t see them smile! Look at them, acting as if they were innocent!
That’s… that’s…” Neville shook his head, apparently at a loss for words.
“That’s outrageous,” Ginny finished for him. “They attacked our third years,
then the Burrow, and the Wizengamot treats them as if they were victims?” The
witch muttered a few expressions that would have upset Molly Weasley, in
Harry’s opinion.
then the Burrow, and the Wizengamot treats them as if they were victims?” The
witch muttered a few expressions that would have upset Molly Weasley, in
Harry’s opinion.
“It’s the Wizengamot — they take care of each other, and of no one else,”
Harry said.
Harry said.
He caught a glimpse of a familiar white owl entering the Great Hall, and
smiled. Hedwig. The snowy owl dived at him, a few beats of her powerful wings
stopping her descent just in time so she could land lightly on the table. She
barked and held out her leg to which a small package had been strapped.
smiled. Hedwig. The snowy owl dived at him, a few beats of her powerful wings
stopping her descent just in time so she could land lightly on the table. She
barked and held out her leg to which a small package had been strapped.
Harry chuckled. “I know it’s Hermione’s fault, Hedwig. You’d never be late
otherwise,” he said while he pulled the package off. “Have some bacon.”
otherwise,” he said while he pulled the package off. “Have some bacon.”
The owl started to feed from his plate while he tapped the package with his
wand, unshrinking it.
wand, unshrinking it.
“Hermione sent you something?” Ginny asked, leaning forward and craning her
neck, trying to see what he had received. Neville, too, was watching intently.
neck, trying to see what he had received. Neville, too, was watching intently.
“She did,” Harry said, pulling out the posters and leaflets. He grinned as he
handed out a number to Neville, Ginny and the other Gryffindors. “Something to
counter the Prophet’s lies.”
handed out a number to Neville, Ginny and the other Gryffindors. “Something to
counter the Prophet’s lies.”
The leaflets were quickly passed on to the other tables — including the
Slytherin table, he noted. He also saw McGonagall grab one herself, then walk
over towards him.
Slytherin table, he noted. He also saw McGonagall grab one herself, then walk
over towards him.
The Gryffindor table fell silent when the witch arrived.
“Is this yours, Mister Potter?”
Harry was tempted to say that no, she could keep it, but he didn’t. Instead he
nodded. “Hermione sent them to me. We want to let the students know the
truth.”
nodded. “Hermione sent them to me. We want to let the students know the
truth.”
“And not the Prophet’s lies!” Neville said.
McGonagall looked surprised at the outburst from the usually quiet student,
but she soon schooled her features. “I see.” Looking the rest of the table
over, she raised her voice slightly. “While it’s laudable to counter lies, I
have to remind you that this is a school, not the Wizengamot, or Diagon Alley.
You’re here to study and learn, not to wage war.”
but she soon schooled her features. “I see.” Looking the rest of the table
over, she raised her voice slightly. “While it’s laudable to counter lies, I
have to remind you that this is a school, not the Wizengamot, or Diagon Alley.
You’re here to study and learn, not to wage war.”
“We’re not starting a war,” Banks said. ‘But if someone else does, we’ll
finish it!’ The young Gryffindor flinched when everyone, including McGonagall,
stared at him, but then he thrust his chin out. “It’s the truth!”
finish it!’ The young Gryffindor flinched when everyone, including McGonagall,
stared at him, but then he thrust his chin out. “It’s the truth!”
McGonagall looked like she was torn between pride and disapproval, or so Harry
thought — he didn’t know the witch that well, anyway. “Not you, Mister Banks.
Not even the Resistance recruited third years.”
thought — he didn’t know the witch that well, anyway. “Not you, Mister Banks.
Not even the Resistance recruited third years.”
Banks’s pouting expression made Harry chuckle — but then he remembered the
Creeveys, who had joined the Resistance when Dennis had been barely older than
Banks. And now Dennis was cursed and in a coma, and Colin was dead.
Creeveys, who had joined the Resistance when Dennis had been barely older than
Banks. And now Dennis was cursed and in a coma, and Colin was dead.
He didn’t say much for the rest of the meal.
---
“I want to train again,” Neville said when they were on their way to their
dorms, to fetch the books and other supplies for the first lesson.
dorms, to fetch the books and other supplies for the first lesson.
“Me too!” Ginny added, before Harry could respond.
He slowed down and looked at the two. “Moody’s dead.”
“So?” Neville scoffed.
“If the Slytherins return, I want to be prepared,” Ginny added. “Or if the
Ministry tries anything.”
Ministry tries anything.”
“Ah.” Harry was wondering what to say. Sirius was busy in the Wizengamot, and
Remus was still in Europe, hunting Wormtail. Nymphadora… well, she was in the
Ministry, and busy as well. Sirius would probably make time, though, to train
with Harry.
Remus was still in Europe, hunting Wormtail. Nymphadora… well, she was in the
Ministry, and busy as well. Sirius would probably make time, though, to train
with Harry.
“It’s not as if we haven’t been training, you know. Just not as hard as you
with Moody,” Ginny added. She was not quite fidgeting, but she looked, if
still stubborn, a bit more insecure than before.
with Moody,” Ginny added. She was not quite fidgeting, but she looked, if
still stubborn, a bit more insecure than before.
It wasn’t as if it would do any harm, Harry thought. At least not permanently,
he corrected himself — Moody’s lessons regularly left him hurting. And with
things so tense, and the Wizengamot unwilling to do the right thing… He
nodded. “Alright. Pass the word to the others — we’ll train in Defence. I’ll
look for an instructor or two, but even without one, we can train.”
he corrected himself — Moody’s lessons regularly left him hurting. And with
things so tense, and the Wizengamot unwilling to do the right thing… He
nodded. “Alright. Pass the word to the others — we’ll train in Defence. I’ll
look for an instructor or two, but even without one, we can train.”
“Yes!” Ginny smiled widely.
Neville, though, simply nodded, his expression unchanging.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 19th, 1997**
Sirius Black shook his head while he stared at the burned out ruins of the
twins’ shop in Diagon Alley and the neighbouring houses. So much destruction…
and the Wizengamot was dragging its feet about funding rebuilding efforts. He
pressed his lips together so he wouldn’t bare his teeth as if he was Padfoot.
Of course, the longer the Wizengamot delayed allocating funds to support those
in need, the more those businesses that were being rebuilt by the Old Families
on their own would profit.
twins’ shop in Diagon Alley and the neighbouring houses. So much destruction…
and the Wizengamot was dragging its feet about funding rebuilding efforts. He
pressed his lips together so he wouldn’t bare his teeth as if he was Padfoot.
Of course, the longer the Wizengamot delayed allocating funds to support those
in need, the more those businesses that were being rebuilt by the Old Families
on their own would profit.
In a way, he was doing the same, loaning the twins money to rebuild their
shop. He snorted — he wanted to simply give them the gold; as far as he was
concerned, they had earned it playing bait for the Dark Lord, but they were
too proud to accept. Just like their parents, already talking about rebuilding
the Burrow on their own, with the help of some muggle ‘blueprints’, whatever
that was — Arthur’s explanation at dinner last evening had been enthusiastic,
but not entirely clear.
shop. He snorted — he wanted to simply give them the gold; as far as he was
concerned, they had earned it playing bait for the Dark Lord, but they were
too proud to accept. Just like their parents, already talking about rebuilding
the Burrow on their own, with the help of some muggle ‘blueprints’, whatever
that was — Arthur’s explanation at dinner last evening had been enthusiastic,
but not entirely clear.
He checked his watch. He had plenty of time left for a stroll through Diagon
Alley to see how the people were faring before heading to the Wizengamot for
today’s session. He chuckled — that sounded like what a politician would say.
Alley to see how the people were faring before heading to the Wizengamot for
today’s session. He chuckled — that sounded like what a politician would say.
The parts of the Alley further away were looking fine, he thought. It was no
surprise — the fighting had not spread that far from the twins’ shop. It made
the destruction stand out even more, though — and seeing a café open next to
ruins was more than a bit weird.
surprise — the fighting had not spread that far from the twins’ shop. It made
the destruction stand out even more, though — and seeing a café open next to
ruins was more than a bit weird.
Sirius had bought chocolates from a shop on the way — not quite as good as
those from Honeydukes, but by no means bad — and started eating them while
walking towards the Leaky Cauldron when he heard yelling from a side alley.
those from Honeydukes, but by no means bad — and started eating them while
walking towards the Leaky Cauldron when he heard yelling from a side alley.
He didn’t hesitate — he was a Gryffindor, after all — and entered the narrower
alley. There was a group of people — muggleborns, he could tell from their
clothes, half a dozen of them — standing in front of a small shop, wands out.
A wizard in robes was facing them in the entrance.
alley. There was a group of people — muggleborns, he could tell from their
clothes, half a dozen of them — standing in front of a small shop, wands out.
A wizard in robes was facing them in the entrance.
“This is my shop! It was stolen from me when I had to hide from the Ministry!”
a burly middle-aged wizard was yelling. “Get lost!” The others near him yelled
their agreement.
a burly middle-aged wizard was yelling. “Get lost!” The others near him yelled
their agreement.
The wizard standing in the door flinched and was obviously scared, but he
stood his ground. “I didn’t steal it — I bought it from Matthias Selwyn!”
stood his ground. “I didn’t steal it — I bought it from Matthias Selwyn!”
“So? It wasn’t his to sell! I’m taking my shop back!” The muggleborn snarled.
“You can take it up with the thief!”
“You can take it up with the thief!”
“But…” The wizard was trembling now, and took a step back. “You can’t do
this!”
this!”
“Of course we can!”
Wands rose.
“That’s enough!” Sirius yelled.
The muggleborns whirled around, all of them. Sloppy, Sirius thought — the
shop’s occupant could have cursed them in the back easily right then, not that
the man looked as if he could do that; it seemed as if he was as surprised as
the others.
shop’s occupant could have cursed them in the back easily right then, not that
the man looked as if he could do that; it seemed as if he was as surprised as
the others.
The leader of the muggleborns glared at Sirius. “What do you…” Sirius saw the
man’s eyes widen when he trailed off — he must have recognised him.
man’s eyes widen when he trailed off — he must have recognised him.
“Sirius Black.” Sirius inclined his head. “I was just passing by when I heard
the yelling.” He popped the last piece of chocolate into his mouth.
the yelling.” He popped the last piece of chocolate into his mouth.
The shop owner walked around the group, towards Sirius. “Sir! I’m Melvyn
Gibbons. They’re trying to force me out of the shop! I paid for it — I even
took out a loan — and now they are threatening me!”
Gibbons. They’re trying to force me out of the shop! I paid for it — I even
took out a loan — and now they are threatening me!”
“The shop was stolen from me!” came the angry retort.
“Not by me!”
Sirius sighed. That looked too complicated for his taste. “Calm down,
everyone. Now, you bought the shop from Mattias Selwyn, you said?”
everyone. Now, you bought the shop from Mattias Selwyn, you said?”
“Yes! Just three months ago!”
The man obviously hadn’t been too smart, Sirius thought. He turned to the
muggleborn. “Did you sell the shop?”
muggleborn. “Did you sell the shop?”
“No! I simply locked it up and left!”
“Were you the owner, or were you a tenant?”
“I wouldn’t be trying to take it back if I weren’t the owner!” the man
exclaimed. “I’m John Carrigan. Muggleborn,” he added unnecessarily.
exclaimed. “I’m John Carrigan. Muggleborn,” he added unnecessarily.
Sirius showed his teeth. He thought he knew what had happened. “That means the
building probably was deemed abandoned, and Selwyn bought it up from the
Ministry.” For a pittance, Sirius assumed — that was how such things were
handled, after all.
building probably was deemed abandoned, and Selwyn bought it up from the
Ministry.” For a pittance, Sirius assumed — that was how such things were
handled, after all.
“I didn’t abandon it! I had to hide from the Ministry!”
“Yes.” Sirius nodded. He addressed the shop’s current owner again. “I’m sorry,
but I think your best course of action is to demand your gold back from
Selwyn. Provided he’s telling the truth.” He nodded at Carrigan.
but I think your best course of action is to demand your gold back from
Selwyn. Provided he’s telling the truth.” He nodded at Carrigan.
“Of course I am!”
“But he’ll not pay me back — he’s the son of a member of the Wizengamot!”
Gibbons said. “That was all I had!”
Gibbons said. “That was all I had!”
“Well, I’m a member of the Wizengamot myself. I’ll talk to him.” Sirius
smiled.
smiled.
“Thank you, sir!”
“That doesn’t mean you can stay in the shop, though,” Sirius said. He ignored
how the man’s face fell — Gibbons should have known better than to buy a
muggleborn’s shop.
how the man’s face fell — Gibbons should have known better than to buy a
muggleborn’s shop.
He nodded at the men, then turned around and left, shaking his head. Another
sign of just how corrupt the Wizengamot was.
sign of just how corrupt the Wizengamot was.
---
Twenty minutes later, Sirius entered the Wizengamot’s floor in the Ministry.
The session wouldn’t start for another fifteen minutes, but many members and
their entourages were already present, either talking inside the chamber to
other members, or gathered in small groups outside the chamber. He didn’t see
Maximilian Selwyn, though.
The session wouldn’t start for another fifteen minutes, but many members and
their entourages were already present, either talking inside the chamber to
other members, or gathered in small groups outside the chamber. He didn’t see
Maximilian Selwyn, though.
“Sirius!”
He turned around and saw Doge was heading towards him. “Elphias.”
“Good to see you… I need to talk to you.” Doge flicked his wand, and a privacy
spell surrounded them. “We need to elect a new Chief Warlock. We can’t let
this linger any longer.”
spell surrounded them. “We need to elect a new Chief Warlock. We can’t let
this linger any longer.”
“We certainly can’t let Runcorn continue.” The oldest member of the Wizengamot
was acting Chief Warlock by default, but he was a known blood purist.
was acting Chief Warlock by default, but he was a known blood purist.
Elphias made a dismissive gesture. “He’s irrelevant. But we need to find a
candidate we can push through. If we leave that office to the purists…”
candidate we can push through. If we leave that office to the purists…”
Sirius nodded. The Chief Warlock was in theory primus inter pares — the first
among equal members — and could act as a tiebreaker. But more important was
their control over the schedules, and how the sessions were run. While they
couldn’t stop a proposal from a member, they could delay it quite effectively
— or push another. “Are you volunteering?” he asked. Doge was known to have
been a close friend of Dumbledore, and he had had quite a career in the
Ministry as well, before he had succeeded his father in the Wizengamot.
among equal members — and could act as a tiebreaker. But more important was
their control over the schedules, and how the sessions were run. While they
couldn’t stop a proposal from a member, they could delay it quite effectively
— or push another. “Are you volunteering?” he asked. Doge was known to have
been a close friend of Dumbledore, and he had had quite a career in the
Ministry as well, before he had succeeded his father in the Wizengamot.
“Unless you are,” Doge said.
Sirius chuckled. “Me? Merlin’s balls, Amelia would be frothing at the mouth!”
“I’ve heard about her opinion of you,” Doge said, shaking his head.
Sirius shrugged. “Albus would have done the same.”
“That he would.” Doge snorted.
“How are your chances?” Doge would have sounded out the other members already,
Sirius knew.
Sirius knew.
“Unless most of the members who are still hiding return, I should have a
simple majority.”
simple majority.”
Sirius nodded. “But they might return once they hear about your running for
the office.”
the office.”
“If they are brave enough. That trial didn’t help,” Doge said. “They might
expect to get off as well.”
expect to get off as well.”
“Not all of them. Our esteemed members haven’t forgotten just how many blood
purists had left the chamber right before the attack started.” Sirius bared
his teeth.
purists had left the chamber right before the attack started.” Sirius bared
his teeth.
“Enough to affect the result. Best would be if they were split among
themselves, but…”
themselves, but…”
Sirius nodded. He hadn’t been a member of the Wizengamot for that long, but
long enough to know that you couldn’t count on your opponent making a mistake.
“Let’s get more votes then!” With Doge’s friendship with Dumbledore, and
Harry’s approval, they should get the support of a number of the more
impressionable members.
long enough to know that you couldn’t count on your opponent making a mistake.
“Let’s get more votes then!” With Doge’s friendship with Dumbledore, and
Harry’s approval, they should get the support of a number of the more
impressionable members.
And, Sirius added to himself, he might also convince some members that
electing a friend of Albus Dumbledore would help appeasing the muggleborns. He
would have to ask Hermione if she could increase the pressure some.
electing a friend of Albus Dumbledore would help appeasing the muggleborns. He
would have to ask Hermione if she could increase the pressure some.
He checked his watch. It was too late to hunt down Selwyn. Maybe he’d have
more luck after the session.
more luck after the session.
---
“…and therefore I believe that the Order of Merlin, First Class, is an
appropriate reward for the Boy-Who-Lived.”
appropriate reward for the Boy-Who-Lived.”
Sirius was one among many who applauded when Chastity Milbrand finished, and
probably not the only one who was as happy about the proposal as he was about
the fact that Milbrand had finally finished — that witch could go on and on;
she had started with a detailed if not quite factual account of Harry’s first
defeat of Voldemort.
probably not the only one who was as happy about the proposal as he was about
the fact that Milbrand had finally finished — that witch could go on and on;
she had started with a detailed if not quite factual account of Harry’s first
defeat of Voldemort.
“The chair recognises Mister Diggory.”
Amos Diggory rose. “While I agree with my honoured colleague Madam Milbrand
that Harry Potter deserves an Order of Merlin, First Class, I think this is
not enough. The Boy-Who-Lived has saved Wizarding Britain twice now, and I
think that we all know just how many of us here are only alive now because he
stopped the Dark Lord before he could take the Ministry.”
that Harry Potter deserves an Order of Merlin, First Class, I think this is
not enough. The Boy-Who-Lived has saved Wizarding Britain twice now, and I
think that we all know just how many of us here are only alive now because he
stopped the Dark Lord before he could take the Ministry.”
Sirius glanced at Bones and Thicknesse; both showed no reaction while others
loudly agreed.
loudly agreed.
“Therefore I think an Order of Merlin is not enough; the Boy-Who-Lived also
deserves a seat on the Wizengamot!”
deserves a seat on the Wizengamot!”
Now Amelia was showing a reaction, Sirius noticed — her lips were pressed
together and her eyes had narrowed. The Minister for Magic didn’t share that
view.
together and her eyes had narrowed. The Minister for Magic didn’t share that
view.
To his surprise the proposal was supported by several members of the
Wizengamot Sirius knew for quite the bigots — if not followers of the Dark
Lord. Were they actually hoping to bribe Harry into supporting the Wizengamot
with this?
Wizengamot Sirius knew for quite the bigots — if not followers of the Dark
Lord. Were they actually hoping to bribe Harry into supporting the Wizengamot
with this?
He mulled this over while Augustus Malfoy stood up and spent five minutes
trying to convince the Wizengamot that Harry was immature and unfit without
actually saying anything that could be construed as an insult towards the
Boy-Who-Lived.
trying to convince the Wizengamot that Harry was immature and unfit without
actually saying anything that could be construed as an insult towards the
Boy-Who-Lived.
Some members might be naive enough to think that this could work. Sirius knew
better, of course — Harry wouldn’t feel indebted to the Wizengamot, nor
duty-bound to support their policies. And it wasn’t as if they could silence
Harry, or pick his proxy for him. Unless… if they actually believed what the
Prophet hinted at, then they might think they could influence Harry through a
witch.
better, of course — Harry wouldn’t feel indebted to the Wizengamot, nor
duty-bound to support their policies. And it wasn’t as if they could silence
Harry, or pick his proxy for him. Unless… if they actually believed what the
Prophet hinted at, then they might think they could influence Harry through a
witch.
Sirius sighed. He’d have to warn Harry about that. He raised his wand.
“The chair recognises Mister Black.”
He stood up. “Honoured members of the Wizengamot! While I’m the first to
support all accolades awarded to my godson, I have to point out that he was
not alone when he faced the Dark Lord. I have no doubt that trying to honour
him, but not his friends, will not endear you to him.” He smiled when he saw
the expression on Amelia’s face. She knew what was coming. “Numerous brave
people helped him, but foremost among them were his best friends Ron Weasley
and Hermione Granger, and the members of the Resistance and the Order of the
Phoenix.”
support all accolades awarded to my godson, I have to point out that he was
not alone when he faced the Dark Lord. I have no doubt that trying to honour
him, but not his friends, will not endear you to him.” He smiled when he saw
the expression on Amelia’s face. She knew what was coming. “Numerous brave
people helped him, but foremost among them were his best friends Ron Weasley
and Hermione Granger, and the members of the Resistance and the Order of the
Phoenix.”
His smile widened at the reaction that caused in the Wizengamot.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 19th, 1997**
Ron Weasley jumped up from his seat when Hermione entered the living room in
Sirius’s home and opened his arms wide. “Hermione!”
Sirius’s home and opened his arms wide. “Hermione!”
“Hello!” She smiled, but she didn’t jump into his arms, as he had expected —
and hoped. Instead she approached slowly and hugged him rather tenderly,
compared to her usual embrace.
and hoped. Instead she approached slowly and hugged him rather tenderly,
compared to her usual embrace.
“Is something… I’m alright, now,” he said. He wasn’t hurting any more, not
much at least. “I’m returning to Hogwarts tomorrow.”
much at least. “I’m returning to Hogwarts tomorrow.”
From the way she pursed her lips, he could tell that she had some doubts.
Rolling his eyes, he pulled his sweater up, then pulled his bandage away.
“See? Almost completely healed.”
“See? Almost completely healed.”
“Almost doesn’t mean fully,” Hermione said, narrowing her eyes as she bent
down to inspect his wound with her wand.
down to inspect his wound with her wand.
“It doesn’t hurt any more,” he said, shaking his head while she cast several
spells. He was smiling, though — she cared, and had cared ever since their
first year.
spells. He was smiling, though — she cared, and had cared ever since their
first year.
Finally she seemed satisfied and straightened up. “It looks good, but it’s not
yet healed. No strenuous activity. No Quidditch.”
yet healed. No strenuous activity. No Quidditch.”
He pouted, then smiled. “I wasn’t planning to. I lost my broom.” And they
weren’t going out this evening, anyway — they would be eating dinner with his
family.
weren’t going out this evening, anyway — they would be eating dinner with his
family.
“Sirius’s planning to buy you a new one.”
“Well…”
She shook her head, and once again he missed her long hair. “Typical.” But she
was smiling.
was smiling.
He gathered her in his arms again, and kissed her.
“So, what have you been doing while I was doing nothing?” Ron asked, once they
were both sitting on the couch.
were both sitting on the couch.
“Same as yesterday — organising,” she said, sighing. “The plans for the rally
tomorrow are keeping me busy, and John’s been trying to copy some BBC
programmes, but… we don’t have the manpower to produce them, and simply
copying them…”
tomorrow are keeping me busy, and John’s been trying to copy some BBC
programmes, but… we don’t have the manpower to produce them, and simply
copying them…”
He knew what the BBC was. “Magic can’t help there?”
“No.” She was frowning again. “We need more people.”
“Ah.” He felt guilty for making her think about the friends she had lost.
“Have you heard about the Wizengamot’s offer to Harry?”
“Have you heard about the Wizengamot’s offer to Harry?”
She snorted. “Yes. What a transparent ploy! And so stupid — first they start
hinting that he was immature and easily manipulated, and now they want him to
become a member of the Wizengamot?” She shook her head. “That doesn’t make
much sense.”
hinting that he was immature and easily manipulated, and now they want him to
become a member of the Wizengamot?” She shook her head. “That doesn’t make
much sense.”
“That pretty much sums up the Wizengamot.” Ron snorted. “Still, I’m a bit
worried about what Sirius said.”
worried about what Sirius said.”
“What did he say?” She stopped leaning into him and pulled back to look into
his eyes.
his eyes.
“He’s afraid… well, concerned, that they’ll try to manipulate Harry through a
witch.” And if that hurt Harry, it would be, partially at least, Ron’s fault
for being with Hermione.
witch.” And if that hurt Harry, it would be, partially at least, Ron’s fault
for being with Hermione.
“Do you think they’ll try love potions?”
“No. That would be easily detected, and can you imagine the reaction?” They’d
have to form a line so everyone could get their curse in. Ginny would go
ballistic as well, Ron knew.
have to form a line so everyone could get their curse in. Ginny would go
ballistic as well, Ron knew.
“Well, he was famous before this. He’d have to deal with that anyway,”
Hermione said. “I know that a number of witches would love to be the
girlfriend of the Boy-Who-Lived.”
Hermione said. “I know that a number of witches would love to be the
girlfriend of the Boy-Who-Lived.”
Among them Ginny, Ron knew, but didn’t say. His sister, going after his best
friend… he sighed.
friend… he sighed.
“Hm?” Hermione was resting her head against his chest again.
“Just thinking. And wondering why I’m so lucky to be your boyfriend.”
“Because you’re a great boy and a wonderful friend.”
He didn’t think so, but he would not argue. He just enjoyed the moment with
her.
her.
---
**Walney Island, Cumbria, Britain, February 19th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood rolled his wand between his fingers while he stared at the
wireless without seeing it. The mudbloods were holding a rally in Diagon Alley
tomorrow to demand the Wizengamot be ‘democratically elected’. Whatever they
meant by that.
wireless without seeing it. The mudbloods were holding a rally in Diagon Alley
tomorrow to demand the Wizengamot be ‘democratically elected’. Whatever they
meant by that.
But he knew what that rally was: an opportunity for him. The Resistance would
be there, leading the rabble. If he could eliminate Granger, then the
Resistance would likely collapse. The Ministry would have the upper hand, once
the rioting was over. And the Wizengamot would be more likely to make a deal
with him without the pressure from the mudbloods. He might not even have to
procure a cure for the Withering Curse; the mere prospect of finding one might
be enough.
be there, leading the rabble. If he could eliminate Granger, then the
Resistance would likely collapse. The Ministry would have the upper hand, once
the rioting was over. And the Wizengamot would be more likely to make a deal
with him without the pressure from the mudbloods. He might not even have to
procure a cure for the Withering Curse; the mere prospect of finding one might
be enough.
But eliminating Granger would not be easy — and quite dangerous. And, as much
as he hated to admit it, he wasn’t certain that he could do it. Not without
taking risks that were far too great. Something he was not fond of.
as he hated to admit it, he wasn’t certain that he could do it. Not without
taking risks that were far too great. Something he was not fond of.
On the other hand, disrupting the rally would be easy — and safer. An Imperius
on the right target, and a fragile vial of Exploding Fluid would turn the
rally into a cull. He might not get Granger and the rest of the Resistance,
but the mudblood rabble would yell for blood, and blame the Ministry. Which
would keep them too busy to hunt him.
on the right target, and a fragile vial of Exploding Fluid would turn the
rally into a cull. He might not get Granger and the rest of the Resistance,
but the mudblood rabble would yell for blood, and blame the Ministry. Which
would keep them too busy to hunt him.
But the Unspeakables wouldn’t care, and would likely continue hunting him. And
they were the real danger.
they were the real danger.
So, should he take a risk, or just take a bit of revenge on both the Ministry
and the mudbloods?
and the mudbloods?
Chapter 46: Vacillation
=======================
I’d like to thank fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved the story a
lot.
lot.
---
**Chapter 46: Vacillation**
*’The acquittal of Daphne Greengrass, Tracey Davis and Theodore Nott remains a
controversial event to this day. From a legal standpoint, the trial was
conducted in complete accord with the laws then in force. Further, the
Wizengamot’s judgment was by no means out of line with the results of the
questioning. And yet, it is also one of the most obvious examples of the many
faults of the judicial system of that time.*
controversial event to this day. From a legal standpoint, the trial was
conducted in complete accord with the laws then in force. Further, the
Wizengamot’s judgment was by no means out of line with the results of the
questioning. And yet, it is also one of the most obvious examples of the many
faults of the judicial system of that time.*
*More important, though, was the effect the trial had on the population of
Wizarding Britain, who did not, as a rule, much care about the trial’s legal
details. They either believed that the accused had been exonerated under
Veritaserum, or that the Wizengamot had bent the law to set Death Eaters free
after they had admitted their crimes. The muggleborns and most of the
half-bloods, as well as a significant proportion of the purebloods, adhered to
the latter view. Since the war had, owing to the timely exodus of the
muggleborn and the subsequent focus of the Dark Lord’s attacks on so-called
‘blood traitors’, struck the purebloods the hardest, that meant that the solid
majority of the population of Wizarding Britain was now convinced that the
Wizengamot was corrupt and only concerned with protecting the interests of the
Old Families.’*
Wizarding Britain, who did not, as a rule, much care about the trial’s legal
details. They either believed that the accused had been exonerated under
Veritaserum, or that the Wizengamot had bent the law to set Death Eaters free
after they had admitted their crimes. The muggleborns and most of the
half-bloods, as well as a significant proportion of the purebloods, adhered to
the latter view. Since the war had, owing to the timely exodus of the
muggleborn and the subsequent focus of the Dark Lord’s attacks on so-called
‘blood traitors’, struck the purebloods the hardest, that meant that the solid
majority of the population of Wizarding Britain was now convinced that the
Wizengamot was corrupt and only concerned with protecting the interests of the
Old Families.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 19th, 1997**
Amelia Bones was livid — a state which had become, unfortunately, all too
common since she had taken the office of Minister for Magic. The focus and
cause of her anger was also a bit too common these days, namely Sirius Black.
To tell the Wizengamot to grant a seat and an Order of Merlin to a pardoned
criminal like Granger! And to one of the sons of Arthur — the wizard who was
steadily trying to undermine her authority within the Ministry! The nerve of
the man!
common since she had taken the office of Minister for Magic. The focus and
cause of her anger was also a bit too common these days, namely Sirius Black.
To tell the Wizengamot to grant a seat and an Order of Merlin to a pardoned
criminal like Granger! And to one of the sons of Arthur — the wizard who was
steadily trying to undermine her authority within the Ministry! The nerve of
the man!
She wasn’t the only one his comments — he hadn’t made a formal proposal, of
course, just delayed Milbrand’s proposal until the session had ended without a
vote being called — had angered, though she hadn’t expected acting Chief
Warlock Runcorn and Augustus Malfoy to request a private meeting with her this
late — it was past eight already — over this. The two had arrived on schedule,
though, and taken their seats in her office.
course, just delayed Milbrand’s proposal until the session had ended without a
vote being called — had angered, though she hadn’t expected acting Chief
Warlock Runcorn and Augustus Malfoy to request a private meeting with her this
late — it was past eight already — over this. The two had arrived on schedule,
though, and taken their seats in her office.
“You need to do something about Black! He’s sabotaging our efforts to rebuild
Britain!” Runcorn said. The old wizard was trembling so much, Amelia was
almost afraid he’d collapse on her carpet.
Britain!” Runcorn said. The old wizard was trembling so much, Amelia was
almost afraid he’d collapse on her carpet.
Augustus Malfoy nodded. “He is disrupting our sessions and his fear-mongering
is unsettling some of our more inexperienced members.”
is unsettling some of our more inexperienced members.”
By which he meant those members of the Wizengamot who were not part of either
the ‘blood traitors’ or the ‘blood purists’, as they called each other, Amelia
knew. The numbers of those ‘fence-sitters’ had grown a bit during the war,
some of the heirs of members killed by either faction being less focused on
vengeance, and more concerned with their own survival.
the ‘blood traitors’ or the ‘blood purists’, as they called each other, Amelia
knew. The numbers of those ‘fence-sitters’ had grown a bit during the war,
some of the heirs of members killed by either faction being less focused on
vengeance, and more concerned with their own survival.
“And Doge! He’s trying to get elected as Chief Warlock!” Runcorn shook his
head almost violently.
head almost violently.
Judging by the glance Malfoy sent to Runcorn, the younger wizard was put off
by this outburst.
by this outburst.
Amelia narrowed her eyes. “So far I haven’t heard of anything either of the
two have done that would break the law.” She wasn’t about to police the
Wizengamot’s politics.
two have done that would break the law.” She wasn’t about to police the
Wizengamot’s politics.
“They are both members of a vigilante group,” Malfoy said. “I’m certain that
they both committed heinous crimes during the war, given who they associate
with.”
they both committed heinous crimes during the war, given who they associate
with.”
“They were pardoned for that,” Amelia said.
“That was granted under duress, during the panic following Dumbledore’s death
— who was a member of that group himself. I do not think that such an act is
legally binding,” Malfoy said.
— who was a member of that group himself. I do not think that such an act is
legally binding,” Malfoy said.
Runcorn nodded. “Otherwise we’d have to enforce agreements made while under
the Imperius.”
the Imperius.”
“In my opinion, annulling such a pardon would need an act of the Wizengamot,”
Pius said.
Pius said.
Amelia glanced at him. He was wearing his polite smile again, but she knew he
was not quite as calm as he appeared. He had to know as well as she did that
annulling the pardon would push the muggleborns to war. She nodded. “I agree
with the opinion of the Head of the DMLE.”
was not quite as calm as he appeared. He had to know as well as she did that
annulling the pardon would push the muggleborns to war. She nodded. “I agree
with the opinion of the Head of the DMLE.”
“You granted the pardon, therefore you can annul it as well,” Malfoy said.
“No. The law says otherwise.”
“That is a matter of debate. If you were under the Imperius such a pardon
would not be legal.”
would not be legal.”
“I wasn’t.” Amelia sat a bit straighter. What were they insinuating?
“Are you certain?” Malfoy leaned forward, his hands on his knees. “Can you
explain why else you would agree to such a travesty of justice?”
explain why else you would agree to such a travesty of justice?”
“Because the Ministry couldn’t afford to break the alliance Dumbledore and
Fudge had made with the muggleborns.” Amelia remembered that meeting very
well.
Fudge had made with the muggleborns.” Amelia remembered that meeting very
well.
“They exploited the Ministry’s weak position as soon as it was possible.
That’s a sign that they did not enter the alliance in good faith in the first
place,” Malfoy said, a hint of a sneer on his face.
That’s a sign that they did not enter the alliance in good faith in the first
place,” Malfoy said, a hint of a sneer on his face.
Runcorn nodded. “Exactly. They broke the alliance by renegotiating the
conditions.”
conditions.”
“While we were not in an advantageous position during the negotiations, they
did deliver, so to speak — they killed the Dark Lord a few days afterwards, at
the first opportunity.” Pius sounded as if he was talking about the weather.
did deliver, so to speak — they killed the Dark Lord a few days afterwards, at
the first opportunity.” Pius sounded as if he was talking about the weather.
“I decided to grant the pardon, and I won’t withdraw it. Should any of the
pardoned, no matter their blood status, commit a crime now, I’ll do my utmost
to bring them to justice,” Amelia said. She didn’t like it — they were correct
that Black and the muggleborns had forced her to grant them a pardon — but the
law was the law; a pardon once granted couldn’t easily be annulled.
pardoned, no matter their blood status, commit a crime now, I’ll do my utmost
to bring them to justice,” Amelia said. She didn’t like it — they were correct
that Black and the muggleborns had forced her to grant them a pardon — but the
law was the law; a pardon once granted couldn’t easily be annulled.
“Well, you need to investigate to determine if a crime was committed, don’t
you?” Malfoy said with a thin smile.
you?” Malfoy said with a thin smile.
“To start an investigation the DMLE needs sufficient reason,” Amelia said,
staring at the man. She ignored the glance from Pius. She was not about to let
the DMLE become the tool of politicians wanting to deal with a rival.
“Political differences are not a sufficient reason.”
staring at the man. She ignored the glance from Pius. She was not about to let
the DMLE become the tool of politicians wanting to deal with a rival.
“Political differences are not a sufficient reason.”
“We know you’re not any more content with the way the muggleborns act above
their station than we are,” Malfoy said, glaring at her. “They are trying to
take over Britain at wand point, and Black and Doge are their willing tools in
the Wizengamot. Something needs to be done, or they might scare the more
weak-willed members into surrendering — something the Dark Lord tried as well,
as you know!”
their station than we are,” Malfoy said, glaring at her. “They are trying to
take over Britain at wand point, and Black and Doge are their willing tools in
the Wizengamot. Something needs to be done, or they might scare the more
weak-willed members into surrendering — something the Dark Lord tried as well,
as you know!”
“So far they haven’t attacked the Ministry,” Amelia answered.
“But they are attacking purebloods in the streets! Forcing them out of their
homes!” Runcorn gasped. “Imagine that!”
homes!” Runcorn gasped. “Imagine that!”
Amelia had heard about that. Pius spoke before she could answer, though.
“We’re investigating those complaints.”
“We’re investigating those complaints.”
“Investigating? What’s there to investigate?” Runcorn was panting. “They are
robbing good pureblood families of their homes and shops!”
robbing good pureblood families of their homes and shops!”
“The circumstances that led to those pureblood families taking up residences
there are currently under review,” Pius said. “Allegations that the properties
were unlawfully acquired during the war were made.”
there are currently under review,” Pius said. “Allegations that the properties
were unlawfully acquired during the war were made.”
“What? Rubbish!” Runcorn scoffed.
“I fail to see how a sale made under duress would be in any way different from
a pardon granted under such circumstances,” Malfoy said with a sly smile.
a pardon granted under such circumstances,” Malfoy said with a sly smile.
He almost sounded like Lucius, Amelia thought. He had a point — though less of
one than he thought. “That’s what we are investigating,” she said.
one than he thought. “That’s what we are investigating,” she said.
Pius nodded. “There are several things to consider — not the least of them the
fact that the Wizengamot didn’t just repeal the Muggleborn Laws, but also
passed a bill to compensate those who were hurt due to those laws.”
fact that the Wizengamot didn’t just repeal the Muggleborn Laws, but also
passed a bill to compensate those who were hurt due to those laws.”
Dumbledore had snuck that in, Amelia knew. Probably planned for this
situation. “As you can see, the Ministry is investigating.” She didn’t smile —
she knew as well as they did that the muggleborns would never accept any
outcome of this investigation that did not favour them.
situation. “As you can see, the Ministry is investigating.” She didn’t smile —
she knew as well as they did that the muggleborns would never accept any
outcome of this investigation that did not favour them.
“I see.” Malfoy’s smile had grown quite thin. Almost like Pius’s.
“What?” Runcorn was shaking his head. “You’re leaving purebloods to be
attacked by mudbloods?”
attacked by mudbloods?”
“If they own the properties, then this is not an attack, but an act of
self-defence, as stated in a ruling of the Wizengamot in 1824, when Dalia
Shafiq attacked a group of wizards who had taken over one of her hunting
lodges and were unwilling to leave,” Pius said.
self-defence, as stated in a ruling of the Wizengamot in 1824, when Dalia
Shafiq attacked a group of wizards who had taken over one of her hunting
lodges and were unwilling to leave,” Pius said.
“That was different!” Runcorn yelled. “It was her lodge, and they were
thieves!”
thieves!”
Malfoy put his hand on the old wizard’s arm. “I see that we do not agree on
how to react to such events. Maybe we all should sleep on this, and consider
our stances?”
how to react to such events. Maybe we all should sleep on this, and consider
our stances?”
Amelia nodded. Runcorn grumbled, but Malfoy pushed him out of her office.
Once the door closed behind the two, she sighed. “I can’t help but blame
Cornelius for this.”
Cornelius for this.”
“He was known to be rather accommodating to the requests of the Wizengamot,”
Pius said.
Pius said.
“That’s putting it very mildly,” Amelia said, then snorted. “But I’m not him;
the times of bending the law for the Wizengamot are over. They can change the
laws, if they feel it’s needed.”
the times of bending the law for the Wizengamot are over. They can change the
laws, if they feel it’s needed.”
“I assume that, in the current situation, the Wizengamot would find it rather
difficult to pass those particular changes,” he said.
difficult to pass those particular changes,” he said.
Amelia shrugged. “As long as they are sticking to politics it’s none of our
business.”
business.”
“And if they are looking for more direct solutions to their problem?”
She glared at him. “If they resort to committing crimes we’ll deal with them.”
If they could — the Blacks had a reputation, and while Black abhorred his
family’s views, Amelia didn’t doubt for a second that he was willing to use
whatever secrets and items and spells they had gathered over the centuries to
deal with a threat to himself.
If they could — the Blacks had a reputation, and while Black abhorred his
family’s views, Amelia didn’t doubt for a second that he was willing to use
whatever secrets and items and spells they had gathered over the centuries to
deal with a threat to himself.
“An attack on Black might cause the Resistance to get involved as well.”
She briefly closed her eyes. “Yes. We’ll deal with that if it happens.”
“Very well.”
“What are your dispositions for that muggleborn rally tomorrow?” Amelia hadn’t
liked it when Cornelius had tried to meddle in her business when she had been
the Head of the DMLE, but this was too important.
liked it when Cornelius had tried to meddle in her business when she had been
the Head of the DMLE, but this was too important.
“With the numbers of qualified Aurors at my disposal, I can’t do more than
send four of them to observe,” Pius said.
send four of them to observe,” Pius said.
Amelia nodded — ‘qualified’ didn’t mean as much as it had once meant either.
Moody had called it ‘able to cast a curse without hitting themselves’, in his
last report before his death. “Keep an eye out for malcontents trying to
disrupt the rally.” The last thing Britain needed was a clash between
purebloods and muggleborns during such a public occasion.
Moody had called it ‘able to cast a curse without hitting themselves’, in his
last report before his death. “Keep an eye out for malcontents trying to
disrupt the rally.” The last thing Britain needed was a clash between
purebloods and muggleborns during such a public occasion.
Pius nodded at her, then left.
Amelia rubbed her temples once he was gone. Why couldn’t everyone simply
follow the law?
follow the law?
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, February 19th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass stared at the leaflet her uncle had brought with him. She
had known that the mudbloods wouldn’t be pleased about her acquittal, but
this?
had known that the mudbloods wouldn’t be pleased about her acquittal, but
this?
She dropped the sheet of paper on the low table and looked at her uncle, who
was sitting on the armchair across from her. “What’s the Ministry doing about
this?”
was sitting on the armchair across from her. “What’s the Ministry doing about
this?”
Astoria, who had tried to read over her shoulder, snatched it up. She barely
glanced at it before gasping.
glanced at it before gasping.
“Nothing.” Uncle Eric shook his head.
“What? They’re all but calling for my murder! Our murders!” She stood up,
taking deep breaths.
taking deep breaths.
“Technically, they’re just criticising the trial’s verdict,” he said. “They’re
smart. They want to use your acquittal to pressure the Wizengamot into
granting them political concessions. Given the speed with which those things
appeared, I’ve no doubt that they expected the verdict and prepared in
advance.”
smart. They want to use your acquittal to pressure the Wizengamot into
granting them political concessions. Given the speed with which those things
appeared, I’ve no doubt that they expected the verdict and prepared in
advance.”
“But…” She sank back on to the couch, shaking her head slowly, barely noticing
Astoria gripping her hand. She briefly closed her eyes, forcing herself to
calm down. She was the head of the Greengrass family. She had to keep her
composure, for her and Astoria’s sake. “Will they succeed?”
Astoria gripping her hand. She briefly closed her eyes, forcing herself to
calm down. She was the head of the Greengrass family. She had to keep her
composure, for her and Astoria’s sake. “Will they succeed?”
“As expected, Black supports them,” her uncle said. She hadn’t missed his
slight wince, though.
slight wince, though.
“And how much support does he have?”
He sighed. “Some of the… more impressionable members of the Wizengamot are
faltering, and talking about making concessions to the rabble.”
faltering, and talking about making concessions to the rabble.”
Daphne pressed her lips together. “What concessions?”
“There was a proposal today to grant Potter both an Order of Merlin, First
Class, and a seat on the Wizengamot.”
Class, and a seat on the Wizengamot.”
She nodded. That was to be expected — the vanquisher of Voldemort could hardly
be rewarded with anything less.
be rewarded with anything less.
“Appointed for his lifetime, of course. He is a half-blood, after all,” he
went on.
went on.
“Yes.” Everyone knew that. “One seat won’t make much of a difference.” Potter
wasn’t Dumbledore. He was the same age as herself, and apart from Black, he
lacked any blood ties to the Old Families. And, she thought, he wasn’t even
nearly as powerful as Dumbledore.
wasn’t Dumbledore. He was the same age as herself, and apart from Black, he
lacked any blood ties to the Old Families. And, she thought, he wasn’t even
nearly as powerful as Dumbledore.
“Black said that Weasley and Granger should receive the same honours.” Her
uncle’s wince was more pronounced this time, but that could be a reaction to
Astoria’s shrill “What?”
uncle’s wince was more pronounced this time, but that could be a reaction to
Astoria’s shrill “What?”
“Three seats…” It still wouldn’t make that much of a difference, but the
Weasleys were a pureblood family — technically, as the twins had emphasised —
and both Weasley’s father and brother were in the Ministry.
Weasleys were a pureblood family — technically, as the twins had emphasised —
and both Weasley’s father and brother were in the Ministry.
“Of course, the mere suggestion of Granger in the Wizengamot spelled the end
of that proposal,” he said, “but I fear that some of your esteemed colleagues
might believe granting Granger such a reward would defuse the situation with
the mudbloods.”
of that proposal,” he said, “but I fear that some of your esteemed colleagues
might believe granting Granger such a reward would defuse the situation with
the mudbloods.”
Daphne snorted. That witch wouldn’t understand what an honour such an offer
would be. She was far too radical even for a mudblood. Although, Daphne
amended mentally, if those leaflets were any indication, then the mudbloods
might have grown far more radical than she had previously thought. Or feared.
would be. She was far too radical even for a mudblood. Although, Daphne
amended mentally, if those leaflets were any indication, then the mudbloods
might have grown far more radical than she had previously thought. Or feared.
“You do not think that she would accept such a compromise?”
Daphne shook her head. “I don’t know.” She didn’t know how much Granger had
changed in the war. Or Potter.
changed in the war. Or Potter.
Looking at the leaflet, and at Astoria, who was now crying, she realised that
there was a lot she didn’t know any more.
there was a lot she didn’t know any more.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 20th, 1997**
Hermione Granger felt as tense as before a battle, watching the crowd starting
to gather. She wasn’t too nervous about the speech she would make, though,
despite the potential danger of the crowd getting out of control — she worried
about the rally’s security.
to gather. She wasn’t too nervous about the speech she would make, though,
despite the potential danger of the crowd getting out of control — she worried
about the rally’s security.
They had chosen to temporarily erect a hall near the remains of the twins’
shop, close to the location where Voldemort had been killed. Thanks to
Sirius’s help, they had a Thief’s Downfall installed at the entrance, which
would take care of imperiused attendants, but the spells on the conjured walls
were far weaker than she was comfortable with, and they would not hold up to a
dedicated assault for long.
shop, close to the location where Voldemort had been killed. Thanks to
Sirius’s help, they had a Thief’s Downfall installed at the entrance, which
would take care of imperiused attendants, but the spells on the conjured walls
were far weaker than she was comfortable with, and they would not hold up to a
dedicated assault for long.
Even with Seamus and Tania up in the sky, providing cover and surveillance,
and Louise and Justin manning the checkpoint, and the fact that most Death
Eaters were accounted for, she didn’t feel very safe.
and Louise and Justin manning the checkpoint, and the fact that most Death
Eaters were accounted for, she didn’t feel very safe.
Most didn’t mean all. Remus hadn’t found Pettigrew, and no one had any idea of
Rookwood’s whereabouts. He could have fled Britain, of course — indeed,
Pettigrew had, last they knew — but she couldn’t afford to assume so. And even
if neither was around, there were bound to be some sympathisers left. Or some
of the purebloods forced out of the buildings the returning muggleborns took
back. Although she doubted that an attack by those would amount to much.
Rookwood’s whereabouts. He could have fled Britain, of course — indeed,
Pettigrew had, last they knew — but she couldn’t afford to assume so. And even
if neither was around, there were bound to be some sympathisers left. Or some
of the purebloods forced out of the buildings the returning muggleborns took
back. Although she doubted that an attack by those would amount to much.
She worried anyway. There was always the question of whether or not the
Ministry, or elements of it, would try something. The Resistance had also
taken other precautions, of course. Everyone was maintaining a Shield Charm.
Transparent walls — she needed to procure some armored glass to study, so she
could conjure a better variant — protected the stage on which she would be
making her speech against curses cast from the audience. They had emergency
exits prepared, and they were ready to conjure walls to contain Fiendfyre, for
a time at least.
Ministry, or elements of it, would try something. The Resistance had also
taken other precautions, of course. Everyone was maintaining a Shield Charm.
Transparent walls — she needed to procure some armored glass to study, so she
could conjure a better variant — protected the stage on which she would be
making her speech against curses cast from the audience. They had emergency
exits prepared, and they were ready to conjure walls to contain Fiendfyre, for
a time at least.
Still, she couldn’t help feeling that it wasn’t enough. Not if something
happened.
happened.
She watched another group of muggleborns enter, drying themselves off after
passing through the Thief’s Downfall. The idle thought that they hadn’t yet
adapted the twins’ self-drying formula to the original crossed her mind, and
she forced herself to focus on the matter at hand.
passing through the Thief’s Downfall. The idle thought that they hadn’t yet
adapted the twins’ self-drying formula to the original crossed her mind, and
she forced herself to focus on the matter at hand.
The makeshift hall was rapidly filling, faster than expected. She either had
miscalculated the number of returning muggleborns, or their timing.
miscalculated the number of returning muggleborns, or their timing.
“This is a good turnout!”
She turned around and saw that John had stepped on to the stage without her
noticing — sloppy of her. She smiled, though a bit weakly. “Yes. We should be
able to gain enough support for the next steps.” If the muggleborns attending
wanted to join a group mostly made up of teenagers and led by a teenager, she
added to herself.
noticing — sloppy of her. She smiled, though a bit weakly. “Yes. We should be
able to gain enough support for the next steps.” If the muggleborns attending
wanted to join a group mostly made up of teenagers and led by a teenager, she
added to herself.
John didn’t show any such doubts. “Oh, of course we will! We’ve beaten the
Dark Lord, and we’ve made the Ministry change course. Who else has done even
nearly as much?”
Dark Lord, and we’ve made the Ministry change course. Who else has done even
nearly as much?”
“Dumbledore,” she said.
“Well… he’s dead, and he’s known to have been with us.” John grinned. “Don’t
worry — they love us. And you especially.”
worry — they love us. And you especially.”
“Some of them might also have been hurt by our attacks,” Hermione said.
“Knockturn Alley, for example.” That mistake still made her feel ashamed. To
have missed that the explosion would throw up so much dust mixed with potions
ingredients…
“Knockturn Alley, for example.” That mistake still made her feel ashamed. To
have missed that the explosion would throw up so much dust mixed with potions
ingredients…
“I doubt that.” He shrugged. ‘That place has been neglected and the
inhabitants harassed by the Ministry’s Aurors for decades. Compared to that,
what we did didn’t really register much.’ He grinned widely. “The e-mails we
receive certainly don’t mention it.”
inhabitants harassed by the Ministry’s Aurors for decades. Compared to that,
what we did didn’t really register much.’ He grinned widely. “The e-mails we
receive certainly don’t mention it.”
Hermione doubted that anyone who was living in Knockturn Alley would even know
what e-mail was, muggleborn or not. “Those who lost their lives or limbs would
probably disagree,” she remarked.
what e-mail was, muggleborn or not. “Those who lost their lives or limbs would
probably disagree,” she remarked.
Once again he shrugged. “Those are just a handful, at most. I don’t think many
would support them even if they tried to raise a stink. Such things happen in
war.”
would support them even if they tried to raise a stink. Such things happen in
war.”
That Hermione knew very well, though she still felt bad about her mistake.
Nevertheless, she nodded — they had important tasks to do. “Alright.” She
checked her watch. It would soon be time to start.
Nevertheless, she nodded — they had important tasks to do. “Alright.” She
checked her watch. It would soon be time to start.
Then she heard shots being fired outside — a light machine gun and a rifle,
both firing long bursts. Seamus and Tania, she thought.
both firing long bursts. Seamus and Tania, she thought.
Hermione was just turning to face the entrance, her wand in hand, when an
explosion shook the hall, blowing one of the big doors open. The crowd started
screaming — panicking, she realised. Wands were raised and waved around, and
some were rushing to the exits on the sides of the halls. Others pressed
against the transparent walls surrounding the stage.
explosion shook the hall, blowing one of the big doors open. The crowd started
screaming — panicking, she realised. Wands were raised and waved around, and
some were rushing to the exits on the sides of the halls. Others pressed
against the transparent walls surrounding the stage.
She tapped her radio button, cupping her hand over her ear to be able to hear
a transmission over the noise. “What’s going on?”
a transmission over the noise. “What’s going on?”
“Suspicious couple approached, and when stopped, threw a vial at us. They’re
down, but Louise has been hurt,” Justin said over the radio. “As have others.
About a dozen.”
down, but Louise has been hurt,” Justin said over the radio. “As have others.
About a dozen.”
“I don’t see anyone else approaching — the purebloods watching us have fled,”
Seamus chimed in.
Seamus chimed in.
Sally-Anne, who had been at the back of the hall, was already rushing outside.
For a moment, Hermione was paralysed — should she end the jinxes preventing
magical transportation, and send the crowd home? Send them out, possibly into
an ambush? The first attendees were already opening the emergency exits.
For a moment, Hermione was paralysed — should she end the jinxes preventing
magical transportation, and send the crowd home? Send them out, possibly into
an ambush? The first attendees were already opening the emergency exits.
She clenched her teeth and cast an Amplifying Charm. “Stay calm! Someone has
attacked the checkpoint outside and there are several wounded. Don’t panic —
we have the matter in hand. Calmly leave the hall, and apparate home.”
attacked the checkpoint outside and there are several wounded. Don’t panic —
we have the matter in hand. Calmly leave the hall, and apparate home.”
People kept leaving, though not particularly calmly. Not all of them, though.
One wizard waved his wand wildly and shouted: “Where are the bastards? Let’s
kill them!” Others agreed, equally loudly.
One wizard waved his wand wildly and shouted: “Where are the bastards? Let’s
kill them!” Others agreed, equally loudly.
The situation was rapidly getting out of control. She had to do something!
Hermione pointed at the first wizard. “You! Go to that emergency exit! Once
all who want to have left, close the door and watch it!” Stepping down from
the stage at the side, where the walls had an opening, she pointed at two
more. ‘You and you — help him!’ She turned towards John. “Grab half a dozen
and secure the other exits!”
Hermione pointed at the first wizard. “You! Go to that emergency exit! Once
all who want to have left, close the door and watch it!” Stepping down from
the stage at the side, where the walls had an opening, she pointed at two
more. ‘You and you — help him!’ She turned towards John. “Grab half a dozen
and secure the other exits!”
“You!” She addressed the rest. “Follow me! People need help outside!”
Belatedly, she realised that she should have asked for those with Healer or
medical training first. But as the Major had told her — in such a situation,
it was more important to give some orders at once, to regain control, than to
worry about the best orders.
Belatedly, she realised that she should have asked for those with Healer or
medical training first. But as the Major had told her — in such a situation,
it was more important to give some orders at once, to regain control, than to
worry about the best orders.
She reached the entrance, a flick of her wand pushing the half-open door out
of the way, then winced at the sight. Behind her, others made gagging noises.
of the way, then winced at the sight. Behind her, others made gagging noises.
There was no crater in the street, so the explosion hadn’t been that powerful.
But about a dozen were strewn around, most of them bleeding and choking.
Justin looked a bit banged up. And there were two bodies riddled with bullets,
on the ground in a pool of blood.
But about a dozen were strewn around, most of them bleeding and choking.
Justin looked a bit banged up. And there were two bodies riddled with bullets,
on the ground in a pool of blood.
Sally-Anne was bent over Louise, frantically weaving her wand around, then
stuffed a bezoar into the former Hit-Witch’s mouth. “I’ve stilled the
bleeding, but there was some poison too… and I don’t have enough bezoars for
everyone!” the witch yelled.
stuffed a bezoar into the former Hit-Witch’s mouth. “I’ve stilled the
bleeding, but there was some poison too… and I don’t have enough bezoars for
everyone!” the witch yelled.
Hermione cursed under her breath before turning to the wizards and witches
behind her. “Everyone, grab one of the wounded and apparate with them to St
Mungo’s!”
behind her. “Everyone, grab one of the wounded and apparate with them to St
Mungo’s!”
Two moved forward, each grabbing one of the screaming wounded. The others,
though, hesitated.
though, hesitated.
“Move!” she yelled at them. Another witch obeyed, but one was shaking his
head. “I never really got the hang of Side-Along-Apparition!”
head. “I never really got the hang of Side-Along-Apparition!”
He wasn’t the only one, judging by the expressions of the others near him.
Hermione refrained from following the Sergeant’s example and cursing them out.
Instead, she ordered in a clipped tone: “You! Go inside and ask for anyone
able to provide first aid or side-along-apparate someone to St Mungo’s to rush
to us here! Go!” With any luck, those who had evacuated wounded would return.
She shook her head and pointed at a witch. “You! Head to the next shop and use
the Floo Network to go to St Mungo’s. Tell them to send more help here!” She
dug into her pocket to pull out her own spare bezoars, handing them to
Sally-Anne.
Hermione refrained from following the Sergeant’s example and cursing them out.
Instead, she ordered in a clipped tone: “You! Go inside and ask for anyone
able to provide first aid or side-along-apparate someone to St Mungo’s to rush
to us here! Go!” With any luck, those who had evacuated wounded would return.
She shook her head and pointed at a witch. “You! Head to the next shop and use
the Floo Network to go to St Mungo’s. Tell them to send more help here!” She
dug into her pocket to pull out her own spare bezoars, handing them to
Sally-Anne.
“Aurors coming!” Seamus interrupted her through the radio. “From the northern
part.”
part.”
Hermione’s first impulse was to take cover and prepare an ambush. She managed
to restrain herself, though, and strode towards them.
to restrain herself, though, and strode towards them.
“Hermione?” Tania said over the radio, just when Hermione spotted the red
robes.
robes.
She pushed the button on her radio so the rest would hear and spoke before the
apparent leader of the Aurors could say anything: “Someone attacked the rally.
There are wounded and poisoned there. Give the poisoned your bezoars, and use
Side-Along-Apparition to get them to St Mungo’s!” The Auror blinked at her,
mouth half-open. Hermione didn’t give her any time to think. “What are you
waiting for? There are wounded in need of help! Move!”
apparent leader of the Aurors could say anything: “Someone attacked the rally.
There are wounded and poisoned there. Give the poisoned your bezoars, and use
Side-Along-Apparition to get them to St Mungo’s!” The Auror blinked at her,
mouth half-open. Hermione didn’t give her any time to think. “What are you
waiting for? There are wounded in need of help! Move!”
To Hermione’s relief, the Aurors — none of them looked much older than herself
— didn’t question her and started to run forward. She heard Seamus chuckle
over the radio. “First time the idiots are doing something helpful.”
— didn’t question her and started to run forward. She heard Seamus chuckle
over the radio. “First time the idiots are doing something helpful.”
She frowned, not that he could see it. “Keep an eye out for more suspicious
people. We need to clear the perimeter.” Unless this was just an ill-planned
or spontaneous attack, there would be another.
people. We need to clear the perimeter.” Unless this was just an ill-planned
or spontaneous attack, there would be another.
---
**Hogwarts, February 20th, 1997**
“While we were peacefully assembling to make ourselves heard, they tried to
silence us with violence. They failed! We will not be silenced! We will not
accept being ruled by an aristocracy based upon the very ideas the Dark Lord
embraced! We fought for our lives, we fought for our freedom, and if needed,
we will fight for our rights! Democracy now! Blood doesn’t matter!”
silence us with violence. They failed! We will not be silenced! We will not
accept being ruled by an aristocracy based upon the very ideas the Dark Lord
embraced! We fought for our lives, we fought for our freedom, and if needed,
we will fight for our rights! Democracy now! Blood doesn’t matter!”
Harry Potter closed his eyes, sighing, while on the wireless, Hermione’s
speech was followed by music. The news had spread quickly, over the wireless,
and then through word of mouth, but not many knew just how close they had come
to a riot in Diagon Alley. Hermione had filled him in through their mirror. If
the Aurors had shown more backbone, if more muggleborns had wanted to fight,
if Hermione hadn’t been listened to, or if there had been another attack…
speech was followed by music. The news had spread quickly, over the wireless,
and then through word of mouth, but not many knew just how close they had come
to a riot in Diagon Alley. Hermione had filled him in through their mirror. If
the Aurors had shown more backbone, if more muggleborns had wanted to fight,
if Hermione hadn’t been listened to, or if there had been another attack…
“Merlin’s beard! We need to do something about the remaining Death Eaters!”
Ginny, sitting in the seat next to him, said. “Not even the death of the Dark
Lord stopped them — they’re still trying to kill everyone who opposes them!”
Ginny, sitting in the seat next to him, said. “Not even the death of the Dark
Lord stopped them — they’re still trying to kill everyone who opposes them!”
Harry started to shrug, then stopped. “We can’t do much about them. Those
still alive are in hiding.”
still alive are in hiding.”
“All of those on the Resistance’s list?” Ginny frowned. “Some of them are in
the Wizengamot, like Runcorn.”
the Wizengamot, like Runcorn.”
“That list included sympathisers too, not just Death Eaters.”
“Same thing,” Ginny said, scoffing.
“All of them will pay,” Neville added in a voice so low, even with the privacy
spell active, Harry almost missed it.
spell active, Harry almost missed it.
“I think it’s more important to reform the Wizengamot,” Harry said. He wasn’t
quite certain how he felt about Neville’s attitude, lately. He preferred it to
Neville’s view of Hermione at the start of the war, but this felt like what
what Dumbledore’s last message had been talking about to Harry and his
friends.
quite certain how he felt about Neville’s attitude, lately. He preferred it to
Neville’s view of Hermione at the start of the war, but this felt like what
what Dumbledore’s last message had been talking about to Harry and his
friends.
“Well, I can’t do anything about that,” Ginny said.
“I told my proxy that he’s to support your godfather,” Neville said.
“Dad and Percy are doing their part in the Ministry,” Ginny added, glancing
first at Neville, then at Harry.
first at Neville, then at Harry.
“We use the Easter break,” Neville said. “We’ll be ready then. And the Death
Eaters might have grown complacent.”
Eaters might have grown complacent.”
Harry thought that the Resistance would probably do something before that, if
these attacks continued, which would drive most of the listed blood purists
into hiding again, but simply nodded. Maybe the whole affair would be over by
then, he thought, though he knew that was unlikely.
these attacks continued, which would drive most of the listed blood purists
into hiding again, but simply nodded. Maybe the whole affair would be over by
then, he thought, though he knew that was unlikely.
“Will you be getting your own seat in the Wizengamot?” Ginny asked after a
brief lull in their talk.
brief lull in their talk.
Harry took a deep breath. “I don’t actually know. Sirius said that his remarks
prevented a vote, and pretty much sent the whole proposal back to the drawing
board.”
prevented a vote, and pretty much sent the whole proposal back to the drawing
board.”
“The what?” Neville asked.
“He means that those who proposed it have to redo it,” Ginny said.
Harry nodded. “Sirius’s demand that Ron and Hermione be honoured too wasn’t
received well. They might decide that they’d rather not grant me anything if
it means the others get it as well.” It would be quite typical, he thought.
received well. They might decide that they’d rather not grant me anything if
it means the others get it as well.” It would be quite typical, he thought.
“Yes. That’s a common tactic in the Wizengamot,” Neville said. “If a proposal
is popular, people try to add things that are not quite as popular to it —
either to push them through as well, or to stop the proposal.”
is popular, people try to add things that are not quite as popular to it —
either to push them through as well, or to stop the proposal.”
Harry shrugged. “Well, it doesn’t matter much. The Wizengamot will be
democratically elected soon anyway.” Or there would be war.
democratically elected soon anyway.” Or there would be war.
“Will you run for a seat then?” Ginny asked.
“Probably,” Harry said. He thought the idea of being a member of parliament
while he was still at Hogwarts was weird, but given his popularity, he could
do a lot of good there.
while he was still at Hogwarts was weird, but given his popularity, he could
do a lot of good there.
And he didn’t trust many others. Not any more.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 20th, 1997**
Sirius Black looked up from his book on dark curses when the fireplace in his
home flared up. A moment later, Nymphadora stepped out of it, stumbling, but
managing to catch herself before she fell. Sirius shook his head — the girl
was still too clumsy.
home flared up. A moment later, Nymphadora stepped out of it, stumbling, but
managing to catch herself before she fell. Sirius shook his head — the girl
was still too clumsy.
She blinked, then stared at him. “Have you been waiting in the entrance hall
for me?” she asked.
for me?” she asked.
“The kitchen is occupied by Molly,” he said. The older witch was baking,
mainly to keep herself busy, in his opinion — the news of the attack on the
muggleborn rally had shaken her. She feared another war was about to start.
“Let’s head to the living room. We need to talk.”
mainly to keep herself busy, in his opinion — the news of the attack on the
muggleborn rally had shaken her. She feared another war was about to start.
“Let’s head to the living room. We need to talk.”
The metamorphmagus sighed. “I would have found you anyway — I have a message
for you. Send for some food, though — I haven’t eaten since lunch.”
for you. Send for some food, though — I haven’t eaten since lunch.”
Sirius ordered Kreacher to fetch some leftovers from dinner — Molly had been
cooking, and she always made too much — while the two entered the living room.
No one else was there — Remus hadn’t returned yet, Arthur was still at the
Ministry, Nymphadora’s parents had retired for the night already, and Ron was
using the communication mirror to talk to Hermione in his room. “What kind of
message?” he asked, taking a seat.
cooking, and she always made too much — while the two entered the living room.
No one else was there — Remus hadn’t returned yet, Arthur was still at the
Ministry, Nymphadora’s parents had retired for the night already, and Ron was
using the communication mirror to talk to Hermione in his room. “What kind of
message?” he asked, taking a seat.
“Thicknesse took me aside, told me to tell you that Malfoy and Runcorn wanted
to annul your pardon. Bones refused, apparently.”
to annul your pardon. Bones refused, apparently.”
“That sounds like Amelia.” Sirius shook his head. “I don’t suppose she knows
that he told you?”
that he told you?”
She shrugged. “I don’t know.”
“Hm.” Amelia was unlikely to be playing such games. The witch had been a good
Department Head, but Sirius didn’t think she was a good Minister. Far too
strict and inflexible. “It looks like he’s hedging his bets.” Amelia wouldn’t
like that.
Department Head, but Sirius didn’t think she was a good Minister. Far too
strict and inflexible. “It looks like he’s hedging his bets.” Amelia wouldn’t
like that.
“I wouldn’t know. Bones was unhappy about the fact that Hermione ordered an
Auror patrol around. And that they listened to her.” She shrugged. “At least
that’s what the rumours claim. Dawlish didn’t chew them out, though — he just
told them not to take orders, but at the same time said they had reacted well
to the situation.”
Auror patrol around. And that they listened to her.” She shrugged. “At least
that’s what the rumours claim. Dawlish didn’t chew them out, though — he just
told them not to take orders, but at the same time said they had reacted well
to the situation.”
That sounded as if Dawlish was looking to reposition himself as well, Sirius
thought. Unless it was a ploy. “What about the attack itself?”
thought. Unless it was a ploy. “What about the attack itself?”
She sighed. “The couple who attacked were killed, so we can’t interrogate
them, but from what we know they had not been known as Death Eaters, or even
blood purists. They hadn’t lost any family to the muggleborns either.”
them, but from what we know they had not been known as Death Eaters, or even
blood purists. They hadn’t lost any family to the muggleborns either.”
“Imperiused?”
“It’s a possibility. We can’t tell for certain. But if they hadn’t been
mind-controlled, wouldn’t they have waited to attack until they were inside
the hall?” Nymphadora said.
mind-controlled, wouldn’t they have waited to attack until they were inside
the hall?” Nymphadora said.
“Not if they were spotted on the way,” Sirius said.
“How did they spot the couple anyway?”
He grinned. “They were dressed like purebloods trying to pass as muggles.” He
had heard that from Hermione.
had heard that from Hermione.
“Seriously?” Nymphadora stared at him again.
His grin widened, but before he could answer, she held up her hand. “No puns!”
He pouted. “It’s my house.”
“But it’s my sanity.”
“You’re not exactly a picture of mental health if a few puns endanger your
sanity.” Good puns too!
sanity.” Good puns too!
“I’m half-Black, what do you expect?”
“Touché.” She had a point there — his family had a history of
‘eccentricities’. Like his late mother, and Bellatrix.
‘eccentricities’. Like his late mother, and Bellatrix.
Kreacher arrived with the food. The little bugger was grumbling about having
to serve a half-blood, or at least so Sirius assumed — the elf had quickly
learned to keep his mutterings from being overheard.
to serve a half-blood, or at least so Sirius assumed — the elf had quickly
learned to keep his mutterings from being overheard.
“So,” he asked while she was starting to eat, “What’s the view in the Corps?”
He saw she frowned, briefly, before putting down her fork. “No one supports
the attack. Everyone I have talked to knows that this could lead to another
war.”
the attack. Everyone I have talked to knows that this could lead to another
war.”
“And how many support the Wizengamot?”
She seemed to shrink a bit. “Bones is quite firmly stressing that we have a
duty to the Ministry, and to Britain. The new Aurors seem to believe that
too.”
duty to the Ministry, and to Britain. The new Aurors seem to believe that
too.”
“Would they fight for the Wizengamot?”
“No one wants a war!” She glanced at him, then stared at her food, stabbing it
with her fork.
with her fork.
“But would they blame the Wizengamot or the muggleborns if a war happens?”
“Those with family ties to the Wizengamot would support it, but there’s not
that many of them left. The others… hard to say. It’s not something we talk
about.” She shook her head. “At least not many talk about that with me.”
that many of them left. The others… hard to say. It’s not something we talk
about.” She shook her head. “At least not many talk about that with me.”
That wasn’t a good sign. But maybe that would change, if Dawlish and
Thicknesse were any indication. He nodded. “Try to talk to the ones who aren’t
related to the Old Families. Well, not closely related.” A lot of purebloods
and half-bloods were distant relatives of the Old Families. Relatives usually
ignored, but in the current situation, even the biggest snobs would be trying
to use that tie. Anything to remain in power.
Thicknesse were any indication. He nodded. “Try to talk to the ones who aren’t
related to the Old Families. Well, not closely related.” A lot of purebloods
and half-bloods were distant relatives of the Old Families. Relatives usually
ignored, but in the current situation, even the biggest snobs would be trying
to use that tie. Anything to remain in power.
Nymphadora tensed, then sighed. “I’ll try.”
He hid his smile. His cousin’s daughter was coming along, at last.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, February 20th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass stared at the wireless receiver. Someone had attacked the
mudblood rally. She wasn’t certain if she should be happy, or terrified. That
not everyone was rolling over in the face of their outrageous demands was a
good thing, but if the war started again… she was certain that she and her
family would be among the first targets.
mudblood rally. She wasn’t certain if she should be happy, or terrified. That
not everyone was rolling over in the face of their outrageous demands was a
good thing, but if the war started again… she was certain that she and her
family would be among the first targets.
“That should teach them that they can’t act so uppity!” Theo said, grinning
widely. He either didn’t see, or ignored, the glance that earned him from
Tracey.
widely. He either didn’t see, or ignored, the glance that earned him from
Tracey.
“They died,” Daphne’s friend said. “Cut down by the mudbloods. And all they
achieved was sending a few of them to St Mungo’s.”
achieved was sending a few of them to St Mungo’s.”
“And they made the Resistance angry,” Daphne added.
Astoria, sitting next to her in their living room, lost her smile, and Daphne
felt a pang of guilt. She suppressed it, though — her little sister needed to
realise just how dangerous this could become. Before she did something
foolish. Like Daphne.
felt a pang of guilt. She suppressed it, though — her little sister needed to
realise just how dangerous this could become. Before she did something
foolish. Like Daphne.
Theo, though, scoffed. “There aren’t many of the Resistance left, and the rest
of the mudbloods cowered in hiding until Potter killed the Dark Lord. Many of
them will flee again after this.”
of the mudbloods cowered in hiding until Potter killed the Dark Lord. Many of
them will flee again after this.”
Daphne refrained from scowling at the boy. She didn’t particularly like him,
and she wouldn’t have invited him, if not for the fact that the three of them
hadn’t many friends or acquaintances left. At least none who wanted to
associate with them right now. That didn’t mean that she wanted Astoria to
listen to that sort of drivel. It sounded like what Draco had said. “They fled
when the Ministry and the Dark Lord were after them. I don’t know if they will
be that afraid of a few idiots with some Exploding Fluid.”
and she wouldn’t have invited him, if not for the fact that the three of them
hadn’t many friends or acquaintances left. At least none who wanted to
associate with them right now. That didn’t mean that she wanted Astoria to
listen to that sort of drivel. It sounded like what Draco had said. “They fled
when the Ministry and the Dark Lord were after them. I don’t know if they will
be that afraid of a few idiots with some Exploding Fluid.”
Theo’s grin widened. “They should be afraid. Now that they have crawled out of
their holes, they are vulnerable to the same tactics they used against us.”
their holes, they are vulnerable to the same tactics they used against us.”
“What do you mean?” Tracey asked. Her friend had tensed up, Daphne noticed.
Theo glanced around, then bent forward, his elbows on his knees. “If the
mudbloods can do it, we can do it better. Strike at exposed targets, then
disappear. Sow terror until the mudbloods have been driven out of Britain
again.”
mudbloods can do it, we can do it better. Strike at exposed targets, then
disappear. Sow terror until the mudbloods have been driven out of Britain
again.”
“‘We’?” Tracey raised an eyebrow. “I’m not too keen on ending up dead like
those two fools.”
those two fools.”
Theo snorted. “We’ll be smarter. We’ll use mudbloods to attack.”
Daphne glanced at Astoria. Her sister was staring at Theo with rapt attention.
Daphne frowned. “Have you forgotten what happened when we tried that with
Draco?”
Daphne frowned. “Have you forgotten what happened when we tried that with
Draco?”
Theo glared at her for a moment, then started to smile again. “Draco was a
fool. We’ll be more careful this time.”
fool. We’ll be more careful this time.”
“Really? So you know how we were found, and how to prevent that from happening
again?” Tracey shook her head. “I don’t think so.”
again?” Tracey shook her head. “I don’t think so.”
Theo was frowning at her. “Someone must have slipped up. That won’t happen if
we’re more careful. And we won’t even go near the mudbloods ourselves. We’ll
send others.”
we’re more careful. And we won’t even go near the mudbloods ourselves. We’ll
send others.”
“Mudbloods?” Daphne asked.
“Or half-bloods, or blood traitors.” He shrugged. “Who cares about them?”
“The Ministry does,” Daphne said. At least they did now.
“They couldn’t find either the Dark Lord or the mudbloods; they are no
threat.” Theo made a dismissive gesture with his left hand.
threat.” Theo made a dismissive gesture with his left hand.
“I see that you have this all planned out perfectly,” Tracey said, sneering.
“Like Draco.”
“Like Draco.”
“And I see that you’ve become a coward who’d rather hide than fight for our
rights!” Theo stood up, snarling.
rights!” Theo stood up, snarling.
“Theo! Tracey!” Daphne snapped.
The two turned towards her, and then sat down again. “Sorry,” Tracey mumbled.
Theo simply nodded.
Theo simply nodded.
Daphne frowned. “Are you really willing to start a war? With the three of us?”
She ignored Astoria’s “Four!”
She ignored Astoria’s “Four!”
“What choice do we have?” Theo said. “The Dark Lord is dead, the Ministry
spent, and the mudbloods are trying to take over. Who else can stop them?”
spent, and the mudbloods are trying to take over. Who else can stop them?”
“Do you really think you can stop them?” Tracey said. Daphne could almost see
the scorn dripping from her words. “All you’ll do is make them hunt you down.”
the scorn dripping from her words. “All you’ll do is make them hunt you down.”
“They’ll do that anyway,” Theo said. “Do you remember what happened after
Grindelwald was defeated? What they did to his followers?”
Grindelwald was defeated? What they did to his followers?”
Daphne had heard about that. France and the other countries had been quite
thorough in their efforts to ensure that there wouldn’t be anyone left to
continue in Grindelwald’s footsteps. Especially none of the mudbloods who had
fought for him.
thorough in their efforts to ensure that there wouldn’t be anyone left to
continue in Grindelwald’s footsteps. Especially none of the mudbloods who had
fought for him.
“Do you think the mudbloods have forgotten?” Theo scoffed again. “If we don’t
stop them, they’ll kill us.”
stop them, they’ll kill us.”
Tracey sneered at him. “And you think you can stop them? Granger will kill
you. Like she killed Draco. And the rest of our group.”
you. Like she killed Draco. And the rest of our group.”
“The other countries won’t let the mudbloods take over Britain,” Theo said.
“They didn’t do anything about the Dark Lord, did they?” Tracey bared her
teeth. “Do you honestly think they’ll dare go after Potter? The wizard who
defeated the Dark Lord?”
teeth. “Do you honestly think they’ll dare go after Potter? The wizard who
defeated the Dark Lord?”
“Potter’s no Dumbledore,” Theo shot back. “He’s just a boy.”
“The Boy-Who-Lived,” Daphne cut in. “The boy who survived the Killing Curse,
won the Triwizard Tournament and was personally trained by Dumbledore to kill
the Dark Lord — something Dumbledore himself couldn’t do.”
won the Triwizard Tournament and was personally trained by Dumbledore to kill
the Dark Lord — something Dumbledore himself couldn’t do.”
“That’s just propaganda!” Theo said, but his dismissive tone rang hollow in
Daphne’s opinion.
Daphne’s opinion.
“And he’s best friends with Granger, the purebloods’ bane,” Tracey added.
“That’s why other countries will support us. They don’t want another
Grindelwald recruiting mudbloods to wage war against purebloods,” Theo said.
Grindelwald recruiting mudbloods to wage war against purebloods,” Theo said.
“As long as Granger’s not calling for mudbloods to rise up in Europe, the
other countries will do nothing. The risks are too great.” Tracey sneered at
him. “At most, they’ll send us some gold so we can fight and die for them.”
other countries will do nothing. The risks are too great.” Tracey sneered at
him. “At most, they’ll send us some gold so we can fight and die for them.”
Theo flinched, and Daphne narrowed her eyes. “That’s it, right? Someone did
talk to you!”
talk to you!”
“Some people are concerned,” Theo said, glaring at her. “But they can’t
intervene without causing an international incident. Not directly.”
intervene without causing an international incident. Not directly.”
She snorted. “How convenient.” Leaning forward, she met his eyes. “Did they
ask you to ‘test’ Potter too?”
ask you to ‘test’ Potter too?”
He flinched again. “Potter’s not our enemy, the mudbloods are.”
“They did,” Daphne said, looking at Tracey.
Her friend nodded, then turned to Theo. “You’re a fool.”
“At least I’m doing something, instead of waiting until they come to kill us
all!” Theo stood up. “They’ll come for you, all of you!”
all!” Theo stood up. “They’ll come for you, all of you!”
Astoria started to cry. Theo stared at her, then abruptly nodded. “I’ll take
my leave. Think about this!”
my leave. Think about this!”
He left while Daphne hugged her sister, trying to calm her down. Tracey busied
herself by reading the latest Prophet until Astoria had stopped crying.
herself by reading the latest Prophet until Astoria had stopped crying.
“What can we do? I don’t want to die!” Astoria said, sniffling.
Daphne caressed her head. “If things get worse we can move out of Britain.”
“And hope whatever country we’ll go to won’t send us back to appease Potter or
the mudbloods after they take over Britain,” Tracey said.
the mudbloods after they take over Britain,” Tracey said.
Astoria started to sob again, and Daphne shot her friend a glare. Tracey
flinched, and mouthed ‘sorry’. Daphne shook her head. They were all under a
lot of stress, with the mudbloods crying for their blood, and the Ministry and
Wizengamot wavering.
flinched, and mouthed ‘sorry’. Daphne shook her head. They were all under a
lot of stress, with the mudbloods crying for their blood, and the Ministry and
Wizengamot wavering.
Unfortunately, Tracey was correct — if Potter and Granger took over, Daphne,
her family and her friends would suffer.
her family and her friends would suffer.
And she couldn’t see a way out.
---
**London, East End, February 20th, 1997**
“How is Louise?” Hermione asked as soon as she saw Sally-Anne enter the living
room in their safe house.
room in their safe house.
Her friend looked tired, and smiled rather weakly. “She should be fine in a
few days — the poison has been neutralised, and her wounds treated.” After
sitting down next to Justin, and leaning against her boyfriend, she added:
“She would be fine tomorrow, if we had taken her to St Mungo’s.”
few days — the poison has been neutralised, and her wounds treated.” After
sitting down next to Justin, and leaning against her boyfriend, she added:
“She would be fine tomorrow, if we had taken her to St Mungo’s.”
Hermione knew that as well — or had expected it. “The risk that there’s some
Death Eater or sympathiser left among the Healers is too great.”
Death Eater or sympathiser left among the Healers is too great.”
“We took the other victims there,” Sally-Anne said.
“We couldn’t treat them all, and they’re not members of the Resistance,”
Hermione answered. “I don’t think a spy would risk their cover to attack a
random muggleborn.” Or so she hoped — Death Eaters were not always logical. Or
sane.
Hermione answered. “I don’t think a spy would risk their cover to attack a
random muggleborn.” Or so she hoped — Death Eaters were not always logical. Or
sane.
Sally-Anne nodded, though probably more because she was exhausted than because
she agreed. “Did you find out who attacked us?”
she agreed. “Did you find out who attacked us?”
“The Ministry identified the dead. Purebloods, though they were not known as
blood purists,” Hermione said. “They could have been imperiused — they
certainly didn’t act like experienced Death Eaters. And Exploding Fluid mixed
with poison is not exactly something normal wizards and witches have on hand.”
blood purists,” Hermione said. “They could have been imperiused — they
certainly didn’t act like experienced Death Eaters. And Exploding Fluid mixed
with poison is not exactly something normal wizards and witches have on hand.”
Sally-Anne sighed. “How did Mary-Jane react when she heard?”
Hermione winced. “Not well.” She glanced at Justin, but he was studying the
papers in front of him.
papers in front of him.
Sally-Anne looked at her. “What happened?”
“She hasn’t left her room since she heard about this,” Hermione admitted.
“And no one went after her?” Sally-Anne sounded exasperated.
Hermione flinched. “We were busy. We had to talk to the other muggleborns who
helped, make certain there wouldn’t be a riot — the Aurors obviously couldn’t
handle one — and prepare the wireless broadcast.” And talk to Ron and assure
him that she was fine, she added to herself, feeling guilty about being so
selfish.
helped, make certain there wouldn’t be a riot — the Aurors obviously couldn’t
handle one — and prepare the wireless broadcast.” And talk to Ron and assure
him that she was fine, she added to herself, feeling guilty about being so
selfish.
Justin nodded, then winced under Sally-Anne’s glare. “I’ll go talk to her,”
she announced and stood up.
she announced and stood up.
Hermione didn’t stop her, and focused on her notes again while her friend
left. She had a contract to prepare so they could recruit more people without
putting themselves at risk.
left. She had a contract to prepare so they could recruit more people without
putting themselves at risk.
“You can’t do everything, you know.”
She looked up. John, the only other member of the Resistance in the room, was
smiling at her. She shrugged. “I know that.”
smiling at her. She shrugged. “I know that.”
“But you still feel you should.”
“Yes.” She should have sent someone after Mary-Jane. And been prepared better
for such an attack. And have organised the response better. It certainly
hadn’t been thanks to her that no one had died today. No one but the two
attackers, who were likely victims themselves. John shook his head, and she
frowned at him. “We need to learn from our mistakes.”
for such an attack. And have organised the response better. It certainly
hadn’t been thanks to her that no one had died today. No one but the two
attackers, who were likely victims themselves. John shook his head, and she
frowned at him. “We need to learn from our mistakes.”
“Of course. But we shouldn’t wallow in guilt.”
She wasn’t. A good officer was most critical with herself, the Major had told
her. “Did you set up a mailing list?” she asked, more to change the topic than
because she needed to know.
her. “Did you set up a mailing list?” she asked, more to change the topic than
because she needed to know.
“Yes. Though it will be of limited use, seeing as we’re about to recruit those
on the list.”
on the list.”
“It’s not certain yet that we’ll recruit all of them. They might have stayed
to fight, but that doesn’t mean they will make good recruits,” she said.
to fight, but that doesn’t mean they will make good recruits,” she said.
“If we don’t recruit them, will we keep them on the mailing list?”
“Probably not,” she admitted. Being refused entry to the Resistance could
cause ill feeling — and potential spies or traitors.
cause ill feeling — and potential spies or traitors.
“Did you manage to reach the Major and the Sergeant?”
“I did,” Justin said. “They should be back in Britain in a week.” Thanks to a
generous offer of gold, Hermione knew.
generous offer of gold, Hermione knew.
“Should be fun, seeing others suffer,” John said, smirking.
She frowned. “We won’t haze them. And some of us will be joining them, to
build trust and to help train them.”
build trust and to help train them.”
He chuckled. “Then I guess we’ll get to see how much of a difference our
experience makes.” He continued with a more serious expression: “Though
they’ll be wondering just where we acquired such experience. And where the
others are.” Those who had died in the war.
experience makes.” He continued with a more serious expression: “Though
they’ll be wondering just where we acquired such experience. And where the
others are.” Those who had died in the war.
Hermione nodded. “In a pinch we can wipe their memories.” It would be easier
if she could read their minds, but she wouldn’t be able to learn Legilimency
in that time. She could ask Ron, of course, but…
if she could read their minds, but she wouldn’t be able to learn Legilimency
in that time. She could ask Ron, of course, but…
“What about Ron and Harry?” John asked.
“What?” Had she spoken out loud?
“Are we going to recruit them as well?” John asked.
She bit her lower lip. Both of them would happily drop out of Hogwarts, if she
asked, or offered — she knew that. But could she ask, knowing that?
asked, or offered — she knew that. But could she ask, knowing that?
“It would help with reaching out to the purebloods,” Justin said.
“Definitely,” John agreed.
“It might also damage Harry’s reputation,” Hermione pointed out. “They already
claim that I control him with ‘my feminine wiles’,” she quoted the latest
article.
claim that I control him with ‘my feminine wiles’,” she quoted the latest
article.
Both boys snorted, and she frowned at them — she knew they didn’t mean it like
that, and she knew she wasn’t ugly, but she certainly wasn’t a Veela, and she
couldn’t help but have some doubts.
that, and she knew she wasn’t ugly, but she certainly wasn’t a Veela, and she
couldn’t help but have some doubts.
“They’ll try to wreck his reputation anyway, since he and Sirius support us,”
Justin said.
Justin said.
“I know.” She sighed. “There’s something else, though. Chain of command.”
“Oh.” Justin rubbed his chin. “I hadn’t thought about that.”
John looked confused. “Huh?”
She sighed. “If they join the Resistance, then where would they fit in? Would
they be like new recruits? I’d have to give them orders, too.” She wasn’t
certain how that would work out, with either boy.
they be like new recruits? I’d have to give them orders, too.” She wasn’t
certain how that would work out, with either boy.
“I see,” John said.
“They don’t have to join us to train with us,” Justin said.
“If they don’t join, then how would it help us with the purebloods?” she
asked.
asked.
“We’d still be working closely together,” John said.
“And it would help in a battle if we had trained together,” Justin pointed
out.
out.
Hermione wasn’t convinced that it would help against the Prophet’s lies, but
if it came to a war, she’d prefer her best friend and her boyfriend to be as
prepared as possible. Even if that meant neglecting their education for a bit.
“I’ll have to sound out the others, though.”
if it came to a war, she’d prefer her best friend and her boyfriend to be as
prepared as possible. Even if that meant neglecting their education for a bit.
“I’ll have to sound out the others, though.”
“Seamus won’t mind,” John said. ‘Not after Diagon Alley.’ She looked at him,
and he nodded. “Trust me.”
and he nodded. “Trust me.”
She bit her lower lip, thinking, then sighed. “Alright. I’ll talk to them.”
She would make certain that they wouldn’t slack off their schooling, though.
They could study with her for their exams.
They could study with her for their exams.
Just like they used to, she thought, smiling.
---
**Dorset, Britain, February 20th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood flicked the wireless off when music followed the news. To
think such noise was considered a hit these days!
think such noise was considered a hit these days!
He shook his head. His plan had worked, after a fashion. A dozen mudbloods in
St Mungo’s, but the only fatalities had been his two tools, and there hadn’t
been a riot, as he had hoped. Maybe he should have had more attackers, but two
had already been pushing it with the Imperius. Or maybe he should have used a
more effective poison. But if he had used some of his special stash, then
Bones would have known that this had been a setup. Like this, she would at
best have some suspicion — Exploding Fluid and Amazonian Flying Viper venom
weren’t exactly rare among those who brewed their own potions.
St Mungo’s, but the only fatalities had been his two tools, and there hadn’t
been a riot, as he had hoped. Maybe he should have had more attackers, but two
had already been pushing it with the Imperius. Or maybe he should have used a
more effective poison. But if he had used some of his special stash, then
Bones would have known that this had been a setup. Like this, she would at
best have some suspicion — Exploding Fluid and Amazonian Flying Viper venom
weren’t exactly rare among those who brewed their own potions.
No, it was better if the Ministry didn’t know he was behind this — it would
make it easier to make a deal, later. He could claim he had been afraid of the
Dark Lord, and not in his right state of mind after Azkaban. It would be
enough to serve as an excuse to grant him a pardon, provided he could create a
cure for the Withering Curse.
make it easier to make a deal, later. He could claim he had been afraid of the
Dark Lord, and not in his right state of mind after Azkaban. It would be
enough to serve as an excuse to grant him a pardon, provided he could create a
cure for the Withering Curse.
Which might be a bit more difficult than he had expected, lacking the Dark
Lord’s information. He might have to travel abroad to acquire the right tomes.
Not that he minded that very much — it would throw the Unspeakables off his
trail as well.
Lord’s information. He might have to travel abroad to acquire the right tomes.
Not that he minded that very much — it would throw the Unspeakables off his
trail as well.
Chapter 47: International Complications
=======================================
I’d like to thank brianna-xox and fredfred for betaing. Their help has
improved the story a lot.
improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 47: International Complications**
‘*The attack on the muggleborns’ rally was condemned by many as a despicable
act and a blatant attempt to restart the war, although opinions differed as to
whether or not the two conducting the attack had acted of their own free will.
Whether or not the assailants had been victims of the Imperius Curse
ultimately didn’t matter a great deal for it was certain that someone was
willing to attack the muggleborns.*
act and a blatant attempt to restart the war, although opinions differed as to
whether or not the two conducting the attack had acted of their own free will.
Whether or not the assailants had been victims of the Imperius Curse
ultimately didn’t matter a great deal for it was certain that someone was
willing to attack the muggleborns.*
*Their motivation, though, was not, at this point, as certain. Were they
remnants of the Dark Lord’s followers? Or simply purebloods who’d rather fight
than let the muggleborns take over Wizarding Britain? Or even agent
provocateurs, to create an excuse for the Resistance to openly attack the
Wizengamot? Many wizards and witches must have asked themselves such questions
during those days when the country seemed to be on the brink of another war.’*
remnants of the Dark Lord’s followers? Or simply purebloods who’d rather fight
than let the muggleborns take over Wizarding Britain? Or even agent
provocateurs, to create an excuse for the Resistance to openly attack the
Wizengamot? Many wizards and witches must have asked themselves such questions
during those days when the country seemed to be on the brink of another war.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, Greenwich, February 21st, 1997**
“You want me to train with the Resistance?”
Ron Weasley didn’t quite stare at Hermione, though his surprise must have been
obvious, since she bit her lower lip before nodding. “It’s an offer to you and
Harry. We’re recruiting more members for the Resistance, and it’d be a good
opportunity for you two to get some training as well.”
obvious, since she bit her lower lip before nodding. “It’s an offer to you and
Harry. We’re recruiting more members for the Resistance, and it’d be a good
opportunity for you two to get some training as well.”
Of course, it was an offer for both of us, Ron thought. “You want us to join
the Muggleborn Resistance?” he asked, to focus on something else while he took
another sip from the hot chocolate he had ordered in the café.
the Muggleborn Resistance?” he asked, to focus on something else while he took
another sip from the hot chocolate he had ordered in the café.
“Not exactly.” Hermione sighed and put down her own cup of tea. “If you two
joined, the Prophet would write even worse articles about how I’m controlling
you.”
joined, the Prophet would write even worse articles about how I’m controlling
you.”
“That’s just about Harry.” Ron knew that the only reason he was mentioned in
those articles was because he was the one going out with Hermione — it added a
scandalous note to the drivel.
those articles was because he was the one going out with Hermione — it added a
scandalous note to the drivel.
“It’s not just about him,” Hermione corrected him. “It’s also an attack,
although indirectly, against your father.”
although indirectly, against your father.”
He hadn’t really thought about that. After a moment, he slowly nodded. Such
‘scandals’ affected the whole family, after all.
‘scandals’ affected the whole family, after all.
“So, joining the Resistance might not be the best course of action. But if it
comes to a battle, it’d be better if you knew how we fight,” she continued.
“Safer.”
comes to a battle, it’d be better if you knew how we fight,” she continued.
“Safer.”
That was correct, though Ron wasn’t about to drop the topic yet. “But me
joining you would also show that you’re not just about muggleborns, wouldn’t
it?”
joining you would also show that you’re not just about muggleborns, wouldn’t
it?”
He noticed that she hesitated for a moment. “It might. But the purebloods we
are trying to reach are those who believe the Prophet’s lies. And they are not
likely to see it like that — they would probably see it as me ordering you
around.”
are trying to reach are those who believe the Prophet’s lies. And they are not
likely to see it like that — they would probably see it as me ordering you
around.”
He hadn’t thought about that, Ron realised. Hermione was the leader of the
Resistance. If he joined her group, she’d be giving him orders. Not that that
would be something new, of course, but still… “Well, it’d be like revision
times for exams,” he said, with a slight grin.
Resistance. If he joined her group, she’d be giving him orders. Not that that
would be something new, of course, but still… “Well, it’d be like revision
times for exams,” he said, with a slight grin.
That earned him a glare and a frown, though he thought she was blushing a
little as well. “It’s not quite like that!” she said, with a huff, before
growing serious. “It’s… giving orders in battle…” she shook her head.
little as well. “It’s not quite like that!” she said, with a huff, before
growing serious. “It’s… giving orders in battle…” she shook her head.
He understood, or thought he did.
“It’s also that even if I don’t treat you any differently, people might not
believe that. Others in the Resistance, I mean,” she went on. With a frown,
she added: “Some people think a girl will do anything for a boy.”
believe that. Others in the Resistance, I mean,” she went on. With a frown,
she added: “Some people think a girl will do anything for a boy.”
“They don’t know you, then.”
“Yes.” She took a sip from her tea, then frowned, and used her wand to reheat
it.
it.
Ron glanced around out of reflex — his mum had drilled into him and his
siblings how to hide magic since they could walk — but their privacy spells
were working perfectly.
siblings how to hide magic since they could walk — but their privacy spells
were working perfectly.
“But our new recruits won’t know me,” Hermione said after another, apparently
more satisfying, sip. ‘I’d rather not have them trying to curry favour like
that.’ She pressed her lips together before continuing. “Allan was bad
enough.”
more satisfying, sip. ‘I’d rather not have them trying to curry favour like
that.’ She pressed her lips together before continuing. “Allan was bad
enough.”
Ron scowled. He hadn’t liked that… scumbag… since their first meeting, but to
know what the git had done… He shook his head.
know what the git had done… He shook his head.
“But there’s also your education to consider,” Hermione said after a brief
moment of silence. “Taking off for a few weeks…” she winced.
moment of silence. “Taking off for a few weeks…” she winced.
He chuckled. “We’re in our sixth year. That’s just the breather between
O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s.” When he saw her frown, he reached out and took her
hand. ‘Besides, you can make us study better than most teachers.’ She snorted.
“And,” he said, smiling, “you’re not going back to Hogwarts at all.”
O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s.” When he saw her frown, he reached out and took her
hand. ‘Besides, you can make us study better than most teachers.’ She snorted.
“And,” he said, smiling, “you’re not going back to Hogwarts at all.”
She winced again. “There’s too much to do. Voldemort’s dead, but the
Wizengamot hasn’t really changed. The Ministry’s set on rebuilding a flawed,
failed system…”
Wizengamot hasn’t really changed. The Ministry’s set on rebuilding a flawed,
failed system…”
He nodded. “I know. School feels… less important.”
“It is important. Education is important for your future. Our future.”
He cocked his head sideways, then smiled again. She didn’t sound quite as
passionate as she used to when talking about homework. “Not as important as
saving the country.” He paused for a moment. “We can study and learn outside
Hogwarts, can’t we?” They hadn’t learned most of what had saved their lives
and helped win the war in school, after all.
passionate as she used to when talking about homework. “Not as important as
saving the country.” He paused for a moment. “We can study and learn outside
Hogwarts, can’t we?” They hadn’t learned most of what had saved their lives
and helped win the war in school, after all.
He shook his head. “It might be better, even. It’s hard to take Hogwarts that
seriously, at least the rules, after we fought a war. Imagine getting
detention for breaking curfew… We have fought Death Eaters, we have killed,
and they expect us to care about some silly school rules made for kids?”
seriously, at least the rules, after we fought a war. Imagine getting
detention for breaking curfew… We have fought Death Eaters, we have killed,
and they expect us to care about some silly school rules made for kids?”
She looked guilty for a moment, but also wistful, then nodded. “Yes. It would
feel weird, being a student again. At school, at least. It might be different
if it was a university.”
feel weird, being a student again. At school, at least. It might be different
if it was a university.”
“University?” Ron had heard the term before.
“The muggle… well, it’s a sort of school after school. For adults. You only
visit it for the lessons, and for the library, but you live on your own, or
with your family.”
visit it for the lessons, and for the library, but you live on your own, or
with your family.”
That sounded, well, like a school. He said so.
She sighed. “It’s ‘higher education’, needed to get the qualifications for the
best-paid positions. Wizarding Britain doesn’t have anything like it. Most
graduates from Hogwarts become apprentices, or learn on the job.”
best-paid positions. Wizarding Britain doesn’t have anything like it. Most
graduates from Hogwarts become apprentices, or learn on the job.”
“Well, N.E.W.T.s are what you need to get the best jobs.” At least everyone
said that. “So, muggles need longer to get their N.E.W.T.s?”
said that. “So, muggles need longer to get their N.E.W.T.s?”
She frowned, then sighed. “In a way.”
He tried not to grin. “Anyway. I want to join your training. I can find an
excuse for Hogwarts.”
excuse for Hogwarts.”
“And your family?”
Now he winced.
“I don’t want to cause trouble between you and your family,” Hermione said.
He sighed. “I think with Harry’s and Sirius’s help, they’ll accept it. It’ll
help keep me safe, after all. And I’ll be seventeen in less than two weeks.”
help keep me safe, after all. And I’ll be seventeen in less than two weeks.”
Hermione didn’t look like she was convinced, but she nodded.
And, Ron thought, if everything else failed, he was certain Sirius would help
him out. Harry’s godfather knew what it felt like, splitting from your family.
Ron wouldn’t like depending on charity, but he knew that he would like feeling
weak and useless, staying at Hogwarts while his friend and his girlfriend
risked their lives again, even less.
him out. Harry’s godfather knew what it felt like, splitting from your family.
Ron wouldn’t like depending on charity, but he knew that he would like feeling
weak and useless, staying at Hogwarts while his friend and his girlfriend
risked their lives again, even less.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 21st, 1997**
Harry Potter stumbled out of the fireplace in Sirius’s — his — home covered
with soot, but he didn’t fall down. He was getting used to Floo travel — he
was better at it than Tonks, these days.
with soot, but he didn’t fall down. He was getting used to Floo travel — he
was better at it than Tonks, these days.
Sirius was still chuckling, though, and the way Harry’s godfather made a point
of vanishing the mattresses he had conjured only added insult to injury.
of vanishing the mattresses he had conjured only added insult to injury.
“Not everyone’s been using Floo powder since they were born,” Harry grumbled,
cleaning the soot from his robes with a flick of his wrist.
cleaning the soot from his robes with a flick of his wrist.
“Hermione doesn’t stumble like that,” Sirius said, still smirking. “They’re in
the living room.”
the living room.”
Harry glared at him as they left the entrance hall. At least he was the best
flier!
flier!
“Harry!” Hermione stood up from the couch, where she had been sitting with Ron
— not quite on his lap, Harry noticed — and moved to hug him.
— not quite on his lap, Harry noticed — and moved to hug him.
“Hey!” Ron waved. He didn’t get up, though.
Feeling Hermione’s arms wrapped around him made Harry feel rather
self-conscious. And jealous. But pushing her away would have made it awkward,
so he did his best to return the hug until she pulled away. Which, he thought,
happened a bit faster than usual. Or he was imagining it.
self-conscious. And jealous. But pushing her away would have made it awkward,
so he did his best to return the hug until she pulled away. Which, he thought,
happened a bit faster than usual. Or he was imagining it.
“So,” Harry said, taking a seat in an armchair while Sirius yelled for
Kreacher, “What’s up? Not that I don’t appreciate the excuse to leave
Hogwarts.”
Kreacher, “What’s up? Not that I don’t appreciate the excuse to leave
Hogwarts.”
“What’s happening at school?” Ron asked.
Harry shrugged. “Neville’s pushing for training, and half of our house is
trying to join.” It was getting annoying, even though it was sensible, or
should be, given the tense situation.
trying to join.” It was getting annoying, even though it was sensible, or
should be, given the tense situation.
“Ah.” Ron nodded, then glanced at Hermione, who was biting her lip.
Harry narrowed his eyes — he didn’t like not knowing what they were up to,
even though that felt petty and stupid.
even though that felt petty and stupid.
Hermione took a deep breath — she was stalling, he realised, wondering why.
“Well, we — that is the Resistance — wanted to invite you to train with us,
and our new recruits, once our next training camp starts. Which should be
soon.”
“Well, we — that is the Resistance — wanted to invite you to train with us,
and our new recruits, once our next training camp starts. Which should be
soon.”
“Oh.” He blinked. “Boot camp?”
“Yes.” Hermione nodded. “We thought it might be good for you and Ron to have
trained with us, in case there’s another battle.”
trained with us, in case there’s another battle.”
“Should be fun!” Ron cut in, grinning. “Better than school, right?”
Harry chuckled while Hermione glared at their friend. Ron obviously didn’t
know what boot camp was. Although, Harry thought, compared to training with
Moody, it should be rather fun. However… “We can’t use magic during the
training, right?”
know what boot camp was. Although, Harry thought, compared to training with
Moody, it should be rather fun. However… “We can’t use magic during the
training, right?”
Hermione nodded. “Yes. The two trainers will be muggle soldiers. Mercenaries.
The same ones who trained us before.”
The same ones who trained us before.”
“Ah.” Harry didn’t have to think about it for long. ‘I’d like to,’ he said.
“Does that mean we’re joining the Resistance?”
“Does that mean we’re joining the Resistance?”
His friends exchanged a glance again, and Hermione sighed and bit her lip.
That didn’t look good in Harry’s opinion.
That didn’t look good in Harry’s opinion.
---
“So, you’re going to be a muggle Hit-Wizard!” Sirius said once Harry’s friends
had left — they were going on a date, before Ron had to return to Hogwarts and
Hermione had to go back to planning the takeover of Wizarding Britain. By any
means possible, Harry thought.
had left — they were going on a date, before Ron had to return to Hogwarts and
Hermione had to go back to planning the takeover of Wizarding Britain. By any
means possible, Harry thought.
“Not exactly Hit-Wizards,” he said.
His godfather shrugged. “They fight and guard stuff. Sounds like Hit-Wizards
to me, just muggle ones.”
to me, just muggle ones.”
Harry sighed — he was right, in a way. “Yes. It should be useful training.”
“In case we have to fight the Ministry and the Wizengamot,” Sirius agreed.
“Not that either will be able to put up much of a fight.”
“Not that either will be able to put up much of a fight.”
“Didn’t you say that the Old Families are hiring mercenaries?” Harry asked.
“According to Thicknesse and a few others, they are trying to hire
mercenaries.” Sirius didn’t look concerned. “But they’re not going to be able
to hire many good ones. Those who didn’t join the Dark Lord certainly wouldn’t
join the Old Families. Or they’ll run should things turn ugly.”
mercenaries.” Sirius didn’t look concerned. “But they’re not going to be able
to hire many good ones. Those who didn’t join the Dark Lord certainly wouldn’t
join the Old Families. Or they’ll run should things turn ugly.”
“They could be hiring former followers of Voldemort,” Harry said.
“Certainly. But once again — the Dark Lord would have used his best wands
himself. What’s left should be the dregs. Probably disgraced relatives of the
Old Families, or similar.”
himself. What’s left should be the dregs. Probably disgraced relatives of the
Old Families, or similar.”
Harry wasn’t entirely convinced, but let the matter slide. He could ask
Hermione for her thoughts on the matter later. Or rather, tomorrow — he
wouldn’t want to disturb his friends during their date. Especially since he
didn’t know how long they’d be out in London. Or if they’d be spending the
night together. “So… how was the Wizengamot today?”
Hermione for her thoughts on the matter later. Or rather, tomorrow — he
wouldn’t want to disturb his friends during their date. Especially since he
didn’t know how long they’d be out in London. Or if they’d be spending the
night together. “So… how was the Wizengamot today?”
Sirius scowled. “Infuriating. A dozen idiots were trying to explain why you
deserve a reward, but not your friends, without sounding like the bigots they
are.” He scoffed. “And others think that it’s better to reward you than no
one, not realising that this would just play into the hands of the bigots who
want to split you up.”
deserve a reward, but not your friends, without sounding like the bigots they
are.” He scoffed. “And others think that it’s better to reward you than no
one, not realising that this would just play into the hands of the bigots who
want to split you up.”
“Even though, according to the Prophet, I’m being led by the nose by Hermione,
and would therefore be her mouthpiece on the Wizengamot?” Harry shook his
head.
and would therefore be her mouthpiece on the Wizengamot?” Harry shook his
head.
“They don’t really believe that themselves. It’s just another lie for the
gullible purebloods who still think the Old Families are better than everyone
else.” Sirius snorted.
gullible purebloods who still think the Old Families are better than everyone
else.” Sirius snorted.
Harry frowned. “Don’t they realise that Hermione’s demands would grant them
more power as well?”
more power as well?”
“They’re too afraid of change — and many would rather be ruled by the Old
Families, without any say, than see muggleborns on the Wizengamot.” Sirius
snorted. “Small-minded bigots ruled by fear.”
Families, without any say, than see muggleborns on the Wizengamot.” Sirius
snorted. “Small-minded bigots ruled by fear.”
That described a lot of people, Harry thought. Not just wizards — his
relatives as well. “So… do you think you can make the Wizengamot see reason?”
relatives as well. “So… do you think you can make the Wizengamot see reason?”
Sirius shook his head, dashing Harry’s hopes. “It doesn’t look like it. Too
many want to see you on the Wizengamot, for a variety of reasons, most of them
stupid.”
many want to see you on the Wizengamot, for a variety of reasons, most of them
stupid.”
“Great.” Harry scowled. “Now I have to consider how best to turn them down.”
“You might not want to turn them down,” Sirius said. “As the Boy-Who-Lived,
and the wizard who defeated Voldemort in a duel, you could influence a number
of the Wizengamot members.”
and the wizard who defeated Voldemort in a duel, you could influence a number
of the Wizengamot members.”
“It wasn’t exactly the kind of duel they think it was,” Harry grumbled.
“They don’t know that. Many see you as a second Dumbledore. We can use that to
achieve our goals.” Sirius grinned.
achieve our goals.” Sirius grinned.
Harry didn’t like it — it felt like lying to everyone, a bit like Lockhart —
but if it avoided another war… He shrugged. “It’s not as if I could actually
vote myself until I’m seventeen, anyway. It wouldn’t be much of a change to
how things are — everyone knows you are my godfather.” Not to mention that it
wasn’t as if he had any experience with politics, either.
but if it avoided another war… He shrugged. “It’s not as if I could actually
vote myself until I’m seventeen, anyway. It wouldn’t be much of a change to
how things are — everyone knows you are my godfather.” Not to mention that it
wasn’t as if he had any experience with politics, either.
His godfather smiled. “Oh, it would be different. It would be more difficult
for the bigots to claim you’re misunderstood, or manipulated if you have a
proxy of your own.”
for the bigots to claim you’re misunderstood, or manipulated if you have a
proxy of your own.”
“Really?” Harry didn’t think so.
“Well… somewhat more difficult. After all, I have a certain reputation as a
troublemaker and rogue myself.” Sirius grinned.
troublemaker and rogue myself.” Sirius grinned.
“Great. I have to enter politics because you’re not respectable enough?” Harry
snorted.
snorted.
His godfather laughed and slapped him on the shoulder. “Chin up! Just about
every member of the Old Families would love to be you!”
every member of the Old Families would love to be you!”
“Really?” He narrowed his eyes at Sirius. “As much as you complain about the
Wizengamot, I somehow doubt that.”
Wizengamot, I somehow doubt that.”
“Well, I know better than them, of course.” His godfather grinned. “Though to
be honest, it’s not that bad. We might even win without having to kill them
all.”
be honest, it’s not that bad. We might even win without having to kill them
all.”
Not for the first time, Harry wondered if Sirius was joking or not.
---
**Hogwarts, February 21st, 1997**
Harry Potter returned to Hogwarts in a rather pensive mood. Taking a seat on
the Wizengamot, joining the Resistance — though for training, only… He sighed
as he entered into the castle proper through a side entrance. There was a lot
to think about.
the Wizengamot, joining the Resistance — though for training, only… He sighed
as he entered into the castle proper through a side entrance. There was a lot
to think about.
On the way to the Gryffindor dorms, he suddenly heard steps coming closer from
ahead, around the corner, and drew his wand while moving closer to the shadows
behind a suit of armour standing in an alcove. Not quite hiding — he wasn’t
paranoid, after all. Just prepared.
ahead, around the corner, and drew his wand while moving closer to the shadows
behind a suit of armour standing in an alcove. Not quite hiding — he wasn’t
paranoid, after all. Just prepared.
The steps were odd, too — whoever it was wasn’t walking normally. More like…
skipping?
skipping?
A familiar blonde witch turned around the corner, and Harry relaxed, lowering
his wand. “Hello, Luna.”
his wand. “Hello, Luna.”
Others would have jumped, startled, Harry thought. Luna, though, simply
stopped in mid-stride, her left foot raised, and turned her head towards him.
“Hello, Harry,” she said in her usual tone.
stopped in mid-stride, her left foot raised, and turned her head towards him.
“Hello, Harry,” she said in her usual tone.
“Have you already eaten?” he asked. It was dinner time, after all, and most
students and staff would be in the Great Hall.
students and staff would be in the Great Hall.
She shook her head. “I’m hunting Blibbering Humdingers. Today’s meal includes
garlic and onions — and since they love garlic, but hate onions, I expect them
to travel back and forth between the entrance and the Great Hall. If you skip
in step with a goblin march, they get confused and lose their train of thought
for a few minutes.”
garlic and onions — and since they love garlic, but hate onions, I expect them
to travel back and forth between the entrance and the Great Hall. If you skip
in step with a goblin march, they get confused and lose their train of thought
for a few minutes.”
“Ah.” Harry didn’t know what else to say — he had no idea if there even were
such creatures, though he wouldn’t discount the possibility — he had seen
weirder creatures and plants in school. “And have you had any luck?”
such creatures, though he wouldn’t discount the possibility — he had seen
weirder creatures and plants in school. “And have you had any luck?”
She shook her head. “No. You must have driven them off.” She put her left foot
down carefully, then moved towards him, leaning forward and… was she sniffing
him? Harry stared at her.
down carefully, then moved towards him, leaning forward and… was she sniffing
him? Harry stared at her.
“Yes, as I thought.” Luna straightened up and nodded several times. “You smell
like onions.”
like onions.”
He blinked. He had eaten some stew at Sirius’s — his — home, but did he really
smell like that? “Ah… I’m sorry,” he said.
smell like that? “Ah… I’m sorry,” he said.
“It happens.” She shrugged, then smiled. ‘I’ll catch one next time. You didn’t
know, after all.’ She cocked her head to the side, her long hair falling over
her shoulder. “What did you eat? It smells delicious, and I might like to eat
it myself.”
know, after all.’ She cocked her head to the side, her long hair falling over
her shoulder. “What did you eat? It smells delicious, and I might like to eat
it myself.”
“Ah…” he was repeating himself a bit much, Harry thought, but Luna had that
effect on him. “I ate at… home.”
effect on him. “I ate at… home.”
“Oh.” She pouted. “That’s a bit far to go to eat. And I fear I won’t get that
meal at home. And I think the teachers wouldn’t be as understanding of such a
trip if I undertook it. I’m not the Boy-Who-Lived, you know.” She nodded
sagely, as if he hadn’t known that.
meal at home. And I think the teachers wouldn’t be as understanding of such a
trip if I undertook it. I’m not the Boy-Who-Lived, you know.” She nodded
sagely, as if he hadn’t known that.
Although… Harry did feel a bit guilty — as the Boy-Who-Lived, and the
Vanquisher of Voldemort, or whatever Wizarding Britain would settle for his
new title, he was getting special treatment. And he hadn’t thought about how
that would look to others. “I’m sorry,” he said — again. “I had to talk to
Sirius. The Wizengamot might offer me a seat.”
Vanquisher of Voldemort, or whatever Wizarding Britain would settle for his
new title, he was getting special treatment. And he hadn’t thought about how
that would look to others. “I’m sorry,” he said — again. “I had to talk to
Sirius. The Wizengamot might offer me a seat.”
“Oh? I hope it’s a comfortable one. Ask for a purple leather armchair, I hear
they are the best!” Luna said. He blinked again, at a loss for words, until
she giggled.
they are the best!” Luna said. He blinked again, at a loss for words, until
she giggled.
Shaking his head, he chuckled. “It’s just a farce anyway — I can’t vote until
my next birthday, so I can’t even be a good mouthpiece.”
my next birthday, so I can’t even be a good mouthpiece.”
“I wouldn’t say that! I’m certain you’d be an excellent mouthpiece!” Luna
said, nodding rapidly. “You did well in the interview, after all.”
said, nodding rapidly. “You did well in the interview, after all.”
Harry forced himself to smile — as might be expected, he had been coached by
Hermione, but he hadn’t thought it was that obvious. And he hadn’t just
repeated her lines, of course! “You know, I didn’t just read a script.”
Hermione, but he hadn’t thought it was that obvious. And he hadn’t just
repeated her lines, of course! “You know, I didn’t just read a script.”
“Mm.” She smiled.
“Anyway,” he said, snorting, “I’ll probably accept, if they actually make the
offer. One more vote in the Wizengamot can only help things.”
offer. One more vote in the Wizengamot can only help things.”
“Yes,” Luna agreed. “Small things add up. Small minds as well, unfortunately.”
That summed up the Wizengamot perfectly, Harry thought. “I just hope it’ll be
enough. The Wizengamot is proving to be rather stubborn.” And stupid.
enough. The Wizengamot is proving to be rather stubborn.” And stupid.
“They are harboring the greatest Wrackspurt swarm in Britain,” Luna said.
“Yes.” Wrackspurts were the invisible creatures who entered people’s brains,
if he remembered Luna’s descriptions correctly.
if he remembered Luna’s descriptions correctly.
“Unfortunately, they won’t listen to us, and will not install Wrackspurt
siphons in the Wizengamot Chamber,” Luna shook her head, looking rather sad.
Then she brightened up and beamed at him. “But you can set an example, can’t
you?”
siphons in the Wizengamot Chamber,” Luna shook her head, looking rather sad.
Then she brightened up and beamed at him. “But you can set an example, can’t
you?”
Harry was quite tempted to ask his future proxy — he didn’t yet know whom he’d
choose — to carry some siphons with them into the Wizengamot. But that
wouldn’t help him change people’s minds on the more important matter of
reforming the Wizengamot. On the contrary. Even if it would be very funny. “I
don’t think it would help. We might have to wait with that until the
Wizengamot is no longer composed of such narrow-minded people,” he said.
choose — to carry some siphons with them into the Wizengamot. But that
wouldn’t help him change people’s minds on the more important matter of
reforming the Wizengamot. On the contrary. Even if it would be very funny. “I
don’t think it would help. We might have to wait with that until the
Wizengamot is no longer composed of such narrow-minded people,” he said.
“Oh.” Her face fell, and Harry felt surprisingly guilty. “That could take
years!”
years!”
“Hopefully not.” If the Wizengamot proved to be too stubborn, the Resistance
would take matters into their own hands, Harry knew. On impulse, he offered
her his arm. “Well, let’s go ask the elves in the kitchen to make some stew
with onions, shall we?”
would take matters into their own hands, Harry knew. On impulse, he offered
her his arm. “Well, let’s go ask the elves in the kitchen to make some stew
with onions, shall we?”
“Haven’t you eaten already?” she asked — though she slipped her arm into his.
“I have. But I can keep you company while you eat, can’t I? A meal is more fun
if you’re not alone.”
if you’re not alone.”
She looked at him for a moment, then nodded, and the two made their way to the
kitchen.
kitchen.
---
**London, Soho, February 21st, 1997**
Hermione Granger felt a bout of nostalgia as Ron and she entered the nightclub
where he had taken her on their first date. Which had been back in November —
barely more than four months ago, she realised. So much had happened since
then! The Ministry wrecked, the Auror Corps bled dry, Voldemort defeated… She
was glad the club hadn’t changed at all. Same decor, same prices, same music.
Even the guests looked alike — as far as she could tell in the dim light.
where he had taken her on their first date. Which had been back in November —
barely more than four months ago, she realised. So much had happened since
then! The Ministry wrecked, the Auror Corps bled dry, Voldemort defeated… She
was glad the club hadn’t changed at all. Same decor, same prices, same music.
Even the guests looked alike — as far as she could tell in the dim light.
They managed to get a small table — or half of it, the other half being
occupied by two rather posh-looking girls who gave them the once-over when
they sat down, then returned to watching the dancing crowd. Hermione felt
slightly annoyed at the apparent dismissal, but then told herself to enjoy the
evening. Who cared what two strangers thought!
occupied by two rather posh-looking girls who gave them the once-over when
they sat down, then returned to watching the dancing crowd. Hermione felt
slightly annoyed at the apparent dismissal, but then told herself to enjoy the
evening. Who cared what two strangers thought!
While Ron fetched their drinks at the bar, she cast a few privacy spells and
studied the crowd herself. She found her feet tapping in time with the music,
to her surprise, before her boyfriend returned.
studied the crowd herself. She found her feet tapping in time with the music,
to her surprise, before her boyfriend returned.
“Here!” he said, handing her a glass.
“Thank you.” She refrained from making a comment about how this time, they
wouldn’t be interrupted by news of the attack on the Burrow. That too, was in
the past. Although… “How goes the reconstruction?”
wouldn’t be interrupted by news of the attack on the Burrow. That too, was in
the past. Although… “How goes the reconstruction?”
He shrugged. “They’re making progress, but it’ll take a while. Mostly because
Bill needs to plan and set the wards — no point in building something just for
the Death Eaters to tear it down again.”
Bill needs to plan and set the wards — no point in building something just for
the Death Eaters to tear it down again.”
Especially not with people inside, Hermione thought as she nodded. You
couldn’t be too careful. It would have been different if they had chosen to
relocate, but… the Weasleys had been living in Ottery St Catchpole for
generations. They wouldn’t move. “Good.”
couldn’t be too careful. It would have been different if they had chosen to
relocate, but… the Weasleys had been living in Ottery St Catchpole for
generations. They wouldn’t move. “Good.”
“How about your folks?” he asked, slipping an arm around her shoulders.
She leaned into him, enjoying the warmth of his body and the feel of his
muscles. “It’s too soon yet to return to our home.” If things went wrong, if
the Wizengamot wouldn’t give in…
muscles. “It’s too soon yet to return to our home.” If things went wrong, if
the Wizengamot wouldn’t give in…
He nodded. “Yes.”
Hermione sighed. As much as she hadn’t wanted to, they were talking about the
war again. “Let’s dance!” she said, standing up and holding out her hand to
him. He smiled as he took it.
war again. “Let’s dance!” she said, standing up and holding out her hand to
him. He smiled as he took it.
She didn’t know the song that was playing as they stepped on to the dance
floor, but it didn’t matter. It was fast, and loud, and had a decent rhythm.
And she felt good, dancing. She was too self-conscious to dance as if nobody
was watching, especially since she knew that Ron was watching, but she gave it
a good try. Good enough that she was feeling quite hot when the music changed
to a slow song, and she found herself in his arms, gently swaying, her body
pressed into his. She looked up into his face, smiling, and moved her arms up,
around his neck, before their lips met.
floor, but it didn’t matter. It was fast, and loud, and had a decent rhythm.
And she felt good, dancing. She was too self-conscious to dance as if nobody
was watching, especially since she knew that Ron was watching, but she gave it
a good try. Good enough that she was feeling quite hot when the music changed
to a slow song, and she found herself in his arms, gently swaying, her body
pressed into his. She looked up into his face, smiling, and moved her arms up,
around his neck, before their lips met.
She was feeling even hotter when they returned to their seats. Or their seat,
as it turned out that they didn’t need more than one.
as it turned out that they didn’t need more than one.
---
Ron Weasley was both glad and sad that they were in a nightclub. It was great
to see Hermione loosen up and enjoy herself, see her dancing and hear her talk
about muggle drinks and fashion — though she could be quite waspish when
discussing some of the girls’ dresses. Not as bad as Ginny, though. But when
she was in his lap and he felt her body move while she grabbed her drink, when
they kissed, when he smelled her, then he wished they were somewhere more
private. Much more private.
to see Hermione loosen up and enjoy herself, see her dancing and hear her talk
about muggle drinks and fashion — though she could be quite waspish when
discussing some of the girls’ dresses. Not as bad as Ginny, though. But when
she was in his lap and he felt her body move while she grabbed her drink, when
they kissed, when he smelled her, then he wished they were somewhere more
private. Much more private.
He shifted his own body a bit, trying to get more comfortable, when he caught
her smirking. Of course she’d know! He was tempted to pinch her rump in
revenge, but refrained. As much fun as it was to tease her, he didn’t know
when they would be able to go out again, and he wanted to enjoy the evening as
much as possible.
her smirking. Of course she’d know! He was tempted to pinch her rump in
revenge, but refrained. As much fun as it was to tease her, he didn’t know
when they would be able to go out again, and he wanted to enjoy the evening as
much as possible.
If only the Wizengamot would give up! Then they would be able to do this every
weekend.
weekend.
“Stupid Wizengamot.”
“Hm?” Hermione pulled her head back and looked at him.
He realised that he had said the last words out loud, and winced. “Just… you
know.” He shrugged. He didn’t want to put his thoughts into words. Wishing
that the war, the conflict, was over so they could go out as often as they
wanted? That felt rather petty.
know.” He shrugged. He didn’t want to put his thoughts into words. Wishing
that the war, the conflict, was over so they could go out as often as they
wanted? That felt rather petty.
She nodded, but didn’t say anything. But she leaned her head against his
shoulder again. A year ago, that would have meant a faceful of hair for him.
Not now, though — she still kept her hair rather short. He kind of missed her
wild mane. Another casualty of the damned war.
shoulder again. A year ago, that would have meant a faceful of hair for him.
Not now, though — she still kept her hair rather short. He kind of missed her
wild mane. Another casualty of the damned war.
He snorted. Now that was truly petty.
“Hm?”
“Nothing.” He smiled.
She narrowed her eyes, but once again let it slide.
She wouldn’t have done that a year or two ago — she hated not knowing
something, anything. She had changed. They all had.
something, anything. She had changed. They all had.
Fortunately, not always for the worse, he thought, as he held her and they
started kissing again.
started kissing again.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 24th, 1997**
Sirius Black caught his prey — not literally, even though it would feel good
to change and bite the man — right after the session in the Wizengamot Chamber
had ended. “Mister Selwyn, do you have a minute?”
to change and bite the man — right after the session in the Wizengamot Chamber
had ended. “Mister Selwyn, do you have a minute?”
The older wizard obviously didn’t want to talk to him, but forced a smile. “Of
course.”
course.”
“I’ve been wanting to talk to you for a while, now,” Sirius said. “But this is
the first session in a week you’ve attended.”
the first session in a week you’ve attended.”
“Ah…” The man’s smile grew even thinner. “I was unfortunately busy at home.
Family matters, you understand.”
Family matters, you understand.”
Sirius nodded, though his smile was now closer to baring his teeth. “I do. In
fact, I need to talk to you about a family matter.”
fact, I need to talk to you about a family matter.”
“Oh?” He seemed intrigued, but wary as well.
“Your son, Matthias, has apparently sold a shop in Diagon Alley to Melvyn
Gibbons.” In fact, Sirius had seen the transaction papers in the Ministry
archives. “A shop he acquired after it was judged derelict a few months ago
and auctioned off.” Though, judging by the price the shop went for, the
auction hadn’t exactly been a public one.
Gibbons.” In fact, Sirius had seen the transaction papers in the Ministry
archives. “A shop he acquired after it was judged derelict a few months ago
and auctioned off.” Though, judging by the price the shop went for, the
auction hadn’t exactly been a public one.
“I’m sorry, but I’m not familiar with my son’s business,” Selwyn said.
Sirius ignored his remark. “Strangely, despite being deemed derelict, it was
sold for quite a tidy sum as a fully furnished shop to Mister Gibbons.” He
smiled again. “It turns out the owner, a muggleborn named John Carrigan, had
simply left it for a while, to go on a vacation.”
sold for quite a tidy sum as a fully furnished shop to Mister Gibbons.” He
smiled again. “It turns out the owner, a muggleborn named John Carrigan, had
simply left it for a while, to go on a vacation.”
The other wizard was sweating now. “If there was a mistake in procedure, then
that would seem to be a matter for the Ministry to correct.”
that would seem to be a matter for the Ministry to correct.”
He was not wrong — but both of them knew that the Ministry wasn’t in a shape
to handle such claims in a swift and thorough manner. And if the dispute went
in front of the Wizengamot… Sirius’s smile widened. “Oh, yes. I already set
things in motion. But I feel that it would be best, for the time being, to
have all transactions involving that particular shop be reversed.” He leaned
forward. “We both know what happened. In this regrettably tense situation in
which we find ourselves, a conciliatory gesture would garner much goodwill
from the returning muggleborns. Albus told me that you could be counted upon
to do the right thing.”
to handle such claims in a swift and thorough manner. And if the dispute went
in front of the Wizengamot… Sirius’s smile widened. “Oh, yes. I already set
things in motion. But I feel that it would be best, for the time being, to
have all transactions involving that particular shop be reversed.” He leaned
forward. “We both know what happened. In this regrettably tense situation in
which we find ourselves, a conciliatory gesture would garner much goodwill
from the returning muggleborns. Albus told me that you could be counted upon
to do the right thing.”
Selwyn froze, taking a deep breath. “You…”
“Albus left me extensive notes,” Sirius said. “He used to say that for a
well-prepared mind, death was but the next great adventure.”
well-prepared mind, death was but the next great adventure.”
The other wizard looked like someone had cast a Wasting Curse on him. He was
pale and trembling. “I understand. I will talk to my son.”
pale and trembling. “I understand. I will talk to my son.”
“Thank you.” Sirius smiled, and handed him a slip of parchment. “This should
allow you to reach Mister Gibbons.”
allow you to reach Mister Gibbons.”
Selwyn took the small scroll as if he suspected it to be cursed, but nodded.
“Of course.”
“Of course.”
“I won’t hold you up any longer, my dear friend. I know you’re anxious to
return home to your family,” Sirius said with faked joviality. “Good day.”
return home to your family,” Sirius said with faked joviality. “Good day.”
He kept smiling while Selwyn curtly nodded and walked away. One good deed
done.
done.
---
**Hogwarts, February 24th, 1997**
Returning to school hadn’t been as bad as Ron Weasley had feared. At least not
the lessons. After a few weeks of convalescence, he was behind in some of his
courses — not in Defence, of course, and some related areas in Transfiguration
and Charms — but it was nothing he couldn’t make up in a week or two, if he
applied himself. Or so he thought. In any case, it kept him busy enough not to
be bored.
the lessons. After a few weeks of convalescence, he was behind in some of his
courses — not in Defence, of course, and some related areas in Transfiguration
and Charms — but it was nothing he couldn’t make up in a week or two, if he
applied himself. Or so he thought. In any case, it kept him busy enough not to
be bored.
He wasn’t attracting too much attention either, not that he would had expected
that anyway — he might have faced off against Voldemort, but Harry had
defeated the Dark Lord in a duel, and Ron’s friend had been back at Hogwarts
for a few weeks already. And he had been asked to tell his story a few times,
both in the Gryffindor dorms, and outside.
that anyway — he might have faced off against Voldemort, but Harry had
defeated the Dark Lord in a duel, and Ron’s friend had been back at Hogwarts
for a few weeks already. And he had been asked to tell his story a few times,
both in the Gryffindor dorms, and outside.
Strangely, though, he missed the privacy and the quiet most of all. Sirius’s
house was far smaller than Hogwarts, but he had had his own room there. And,
most importantly, he had been reasonably safe there. Had felt so, at least.
Here, though, he still drew his wand each time someone approached him.
house was far smaller than Hogwarts, but he had had his own room there. And,
most importantly, he had been reasonably safe there. Had felt so, at least.
Here, though, he still drew his wand each time someone approached him.
Like right now, when he saw a witch walking towards the corner of the library
where his table was. She might just be headed to the shelves nearby to grab a
book, of course, but you never knew, so he tracked her with his wand under the
table as she passed the shelves until she turned the corner.
where his table was. She might just be headed to the shelves nearby to grab a
book, of course, but you never knew, so he tracked her with his wand under the
table as she passed the shelves until she turned the corner.
“Hello, Ron!” she smiled at him. “Fancy finding you here.”
“Hello, Lavender,” he answered after just a moment’s hesitation, slowly
pulling his wand out from under the table.
pulling his wand out from under the table.
She didn’t seem to notice as she stepped closer. “You’re studying hard.”
He nodded, twirling his wand in the manner Moody had taught them, to make it
appear as if he was just keeping his hand busy. “I’ve missed a lot of
lessons.” He smiled politely at her.
appear as if he was just keeping his hand busy. “I’ve missed a lot of
lessons.” He smiled politely at her.
“When you were healing from the Dark Lord’s curse.” She nodded gravely, as if
that had been an impressive feat. Harry and Hermione and the muggle Healers
had saved him. Ron had done nothing.
that had been an impressive feat. Harry and Hermione and the muggle Healers
had saved him. Ron had done nothing.
But that wasn’t something he felt like sharing, so he agreed. “Yes. It
couldn’t be healed with magic.” The Healers were not certain if the area
around the wound would stay resistant to magic, but that was none of her
business.
couldn’t be healed with magic.” The Healers were not certain if the area
around the wound would stay resistant to magic, but that was none of her
business.
“Did it leave a scar?” Lavender sat down on the table and leaned towards him.
“Like Harry’s?”
“Like Harry’s?”
He snorted. He had a scar, but it wasn’t like Harry’s. “It’s a normal scar.
Many muggles have one like it.” So he had been informed by Hermione.
Many muggles have one like it.” So he had been informed by Hermione.
“Oh.” She sounded taken aback, then smiled again. “Still, it’s like you were
marked by the Dark Lord.”
marked by the Dark Lord.”
Ron almost frowned. He wasn’t Harry. And he didn’t want to be Harry. He
shrugged. “Not quite like that. I’m glad it’s healed, though.”
shrugged. “Not quite like that. I’m glad it’s healed, though.”
“And glad to be back at Hogwarts?” Lavender’s smile grew. “We missed you.”
“Yes,” he said. It wasn’t quite a lie. Though he would rather be with
Hermione. Which he’d be, soon enough, once training started. Provided he was
fully healed by then. Which was why he wouldn’t be playing Quidditch yet.
Hermione. Which he’d be, soon enough, once training started. Provided he was
fully healed by then. Which was why he wouldn’t be playing Quidditch yet.
“Will…” She licked her lips. “Will Hermione return to Hogwarts as well? For
the next year? Or Seamus?” she added.
the next year? Or Seamus?” she added.
“It’s not certain,” he said. “Things have changed. People have changed.
There’s so much to do still.” He smiled, remembering Hermione’s face when she
had talked about her plans. So passionate.
There’s so much to do still.” He smiled, remembering Hermione’s face when she
had talked about her plans. So passionate.
“Ah.”
“Hm?” He looked at her and noticed that Lavender’s smile had slipped some.
“Nothing.” She smiled again, but it looked rather forced. “You two are still
together?”
together?”
“Yes.”
“I could tell from the way you looked when you were thinking of her.”
“Oh.” He needed to work on that, then — what good was Occlumency if people
could read him like that?
could read him like that?
“It’s not a bad thing, it’s romantic!” Lavender pouted. She must have read him
again.
again.
He really needed to work on that.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 25th, 1997**
“Moony! You’ve finally returned home!” Sirius Black didn’t quite tackle his
best friend as soon as he stepped out of the fireplace in the entrance hall,
but he certainly came close. After slapping him on the back a few times — as
usual Moony didn’t stumble — he drew back and looked his friend over. Remus
was looking… a bit worse for wear, but that was to be expected. It had just
been three days since the full moon, after all. He was looking more depressed
than usual, though.
best friend as soon as he stepped out of the fireplace in the entrance hall,
but he certainly came close. After slapping him on the back a few times — as
usual Moony didn’t stumble — he drew back and looked his friend over. Remus
was looking… a bit worse for wear, but that was to be expected. It had just
been three days since the full moon, after all. He was looking more depressed
than usual, though.
“Hello, Padfoot.” Remus was shaking his head with a faint smile, before he
grew serious — too serious, in Sirius’s opinion — again.
grew serious — too serious, in Sirius’s opinion — again.
“Kreacher! Get Remus’s luggage to his room!” Sirius yelled, then started to
drag his friend to the living room. ‘You’ll need a drink while I fill you in
on what has happened in your absence!’ Remus flinched, which Sirius ignored —
his friend probably felt guilty for not being there to help. He was too
responsible for his own good. “You’ve heard about the Dark Lord’s death, I
hope.”
drag his friend to the living room. ‘You’ll need a drink while I fill you in
on what has happened in your absence!’ Remus flinched, which Sirius ignored —
his friend probably felt guilty for not being there to help. He was too
responsible for his own good. “You’ve heard about the Dark Lord’s death, I
hope.”
“Of course. It made the news in Europe.” Remus sat down in the closest seat.
“How many of our friends died?”
“How many of our friends died?”
Sirius hadn’t wanted to start with their losses — Remus would feel even
guiltier — but he wasn’t about to deflect his best friend. He told him who had
died.
guiltier — but he wasn’t about to deflect his best friend. He told him who had
died.
“Moody died?” Remus was shaking his head, holding his second drink.
“Killed by the Dark Lord himself. Voldemort took me and Ron out as well,
before Harry killed him.” Sirius winced slightly — he had been very lucky.
“All in all, it wasn’t as bad as it could have been.”
before Harry killed him.” Sirius winced slightly — he had been very lucky.
“All in all, it wasn’t as bad as it could have been.”
“Too many died,” Remus said. “If I had been there…”
“You don’t know what would have happened. And you were hunting Wormtail.”
“I failed.” Remus put his glass down. “I lost his trail a week ago. I only
found the remains of a ritual he had been preparing in Magical Bavaria.”
found the remains of a ritual he had been preparing in Magical Bavaria.”
“A ritual?” Sirius leaned forward.
“Failed ritual, as far as I could tell from the remains,” Remus said.
“Necromancy.”
“Necromancy.”
“Oh. Failed as in…?” Sirius made a gesture mimicking an explosion with his
hands.
hands.
“No. It looked like he didn’t really start it. He’s definitely still alive.
But the trail went cold in Hohenschwangau.”
But the trail went cold in Hohenschwangau.”
“Gesundheit,” Sirius said. His friend just rolled his eyes, though. “So, what
are you planning to do now?”
are you planning to do now?”
“Find out in which country he is hiding, then go huntîng again,” he answered
promptly.
promptly.
“Through a Seer again?” Sirius raised his eyebrows.
“Yes. It worked the first time,” Remus said, though he sounded quite
defensive.
defensive.
“You were told that he was ‘near the Mad King’s Castle’. That’s not exactly
helpful.” Sirius wouldn’t have known which mad king the Seer had meant.
helpful.” Sirius wouldn’t have known which mad king the Seer had meant.
“It was helpful enough.” Remus narrowed his eyes.
Sirius sighed. “And if he’s hiding as a rat again? He spent a decade as a rat,
remember? Odds are, he’ll do the same thing now, with the Dark Lord dead.”
remember? Odds are, he’ll do the same thing now, with the Dark Lord dead.”
Remus didn’t say anything, just refilled his glass.
“That wouldn’t be that bad, actually. Wormtail living as a rat — not as
comfortable as he had done with the Weasleys, of course, since now people know
about him missing a toe — hiding from us, and from any cats in the area…”
Sirius forced himself to smile.
comfortable as he had done with the Weasleys, of course, since now people know
about him missing a toe — hiding from us, and from any cats in the area…”
Sirius forced himself to smile.
“He deserves death,” Remus spat.
Sirius would have agreed, actually — he wanted Wormtail dead, preferably at
his own hand. That traitor had done too much to Sirius’s friends, and to
Sirius himself. But neither he nor Remus could afford to waste their lives
hunting Wormtail across the world. They were needed in Britain. So Sirius
shook his head. “Death is too good for him. And we need you here.”
his own hand. That traitor had done too much to Sirius’s friends, and to
Sirius himself. But neither he nor Remus could afford to waste their lives
hunting Wormtail across the world. They were needed in Britain. So Sirius
shook his head. “Death is too good for him. And we need you here.”
His friend looked at him. “Me? I’m just a werewolf without work.”
“Yes, you.” Sirius nodded at him and refilled his own glass. ‘Things are
changing. Britain’s changing. And we need every good wizard to ensure that
it’s changing for the better.’ He stood up. “Think of the children.
Muggleborns, half-bloods, purebloods, werewolves,” he added. “They deserve to
grow up in a better country than we did.”
changing. Britain’s changing. And we need every good wizard to ensure that
it’s changing for the better.’ He stood up. “Think of the children.
Muggleborns, half-bloods, purebloods, werewolves,” he added. “They deserve to
grow up in a better country than we did.”
Remus stared at him for a moment, then shook his head. “I can’t tell if you’re
serious.”
serious.”
He grinned widely. “I’m always…”
Remus’s Silencing Charm cut him off before he could finish his favourite pun.
Sirius made a show of pouting while he dispelled the charm. “That was uncalled
for.” Contrary to his words, he was glad, though — Remus seemed to be feeling
better.
for.” Contrary to his words, he was glad, though — Remus seemed to be feeling
better.
“It was very much called for,” Remus said, grinning slightly, then raising his
glass. “I’ll be staying then, for a while at least.”
glass. “I’ll be staying then, for a while at least.”
“Good!”
“So… did all the French return to France?” Remus asked once both were seated
again.
again.
Sirius knew what he was really asking. “Vivienne stayed.”
“Ah.” His friend smiled. “Where is she then?”
“Learning how to cook British meals,” Sirius said. His friend looked
surprised. ‘That’s what she said.’ He shrugged. He suspected — and hoped —
that his lover felt a bit territorial, and didn’t want to leave the kitchen to
Molly. He noticed Remus turning his head towards the door. “Did you hear
something?”
surprised. ‘That’s what she said.’ He shrugged. He suspected — and hoped —
that his lover felt a bit territorial, and didn’t want to leave the kitchen to
Molly. He noticed Remus turning his head towards the door. “Did you hear
something?”
The door was opened a second later, and he saw Nymphadora enter. The
metamorphmagus’s frown turned into a smile. “Remus! You’re back!” She nodded
at Sirius. “Sirius.”
metamorphmagus’s frown turned into a smile. “Remus! You’re back!” She nodded
at Sirius. “Sirius.”
“Nymphadora.” Remus stood to greet her.
Sirius simply waved. “How’re the Ministry’s finest doing?”
She frowned at him, then grabbed a drink herself and sat down in the seat next
to Remus. “Overworked as usual.”
to Remus. “Overworked as usual.”
“That explains why you seek solace in alcohol,” Sirius said, nodding sagely.
Neither Remus nor Nymphadora laughed. If he had less confidence in himself, he
would have thought he were not quite as witty as he was.
Neither Remus nor Nymphadora laughed. If he had less confidence in himself, he
would have thought he were not quite as witty as he was.
She sighed. “Bones has a meeting with Aubrey Fawley tomorrow.”
“Britain’s delegate at the ICW?” Sirius rubbed his chin. “I wonder what they
are talking about.”
are talking about.”
“I can’t help you there — it’ll be a private meeting,” she said.
Remus looked concerned as well. “Is it a routine meeting?”
The witch shook her head. “No.”
“Great. The last thing we need is international trouble.” Sirius shook his
head. It could be nothing, of course. But he didn’t think so. Maybe he should
ask Vivienne if she had heard anything from her family.
head. It could be nothing, of course. But he didn’t think so. Maybe he should
ask Vivienne if she had heard anything from her family.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, February 26th, 1997**
“Mister Fawley has arrived,” Amelia Bones’s secretary announced.
“Send him in,” Amelia said, putting the latest report from Pius away.
Britain’s delegate at the ICW entered. “Hello, Madam Minister.” His smile was
too wide for her taste. It fit a man who had been a diplomat and politician
for most of his life.
too wide for her taste. It fit a man who had been a diplomat and politician
for most of his life.
“Mister Fawley. Please take a seat.” She gestured at the chairs in front of
her desk. Once he was sitting, she continued: “You asked for a meeting.”
her desk. Once he was sitting, she continued: “You asked for a meeting.”
“Straight to the point? You haven’t changed.” He smiled, a bit patronisingly,
or so she thought. He quickly grew serious, though. ‘There have been… concerns
raised at the ICW that Britain could become unable to fulfill its obligations
to maintain the International Statute of Secrecy.’ He spread his hands. “Many
seem very concerned about the horrible toll the war took on the Ministry.”
or so she thought. He quickly grew serious, though. ‘There have been… concerns
raised at the ICW that Britain could become unable to fulfill its obligations
to maintain the International Statute of Secrecy.’ He spread his hands. “Many
seem very concerned about the horrible toll the war took on the Ministry.”
Amelia refrained from scowling. “The Obliviators were unaffected by the war
and have continued to operate as efficiently as always. The ICW should know
that.” Neither the muggleborns nor the Dark Lord had been so insane as to
attack or hinder the Obliviators. Everyone knew how important their work was.
and have continued to operate as efficiently as always. The ICW should know
that.” Neither the muggleborns nor the Dark Lord had been so insane as to
attack or hinder the Obliviators. Everyone knew how important their work was.
“They do.” Fawley smiled weakly.
“So, what’s this about then?” He hesitated, and she added: “Don’t tell me the
official excuses and pretexts.”
official excuses and pretexts.”
He sighed as if it pained him to be frank and direct, for a change. “A number
of countries want to test us. They want to know just how much we were weakened
by Dumbledore’s death and the entire war.”
of countries want to test us. They want to know just how much we were weakened
by Dumbledore’s death and the entire war.”
“As long as we fulfill our obligations the ICW has no mandate to intervene,”
Amelia said.
Amelia said.
“But they are allowed to inspect countries if they suspect that they are
endangering the Statute of Secrecy.”
endangering the Statute of Secrecy.”
“A pretext to spying, then.” She pressed her lips together. The carrion eaters
were starting to gather, hoping for an easy meal.
were starting to gather, hoping for an easy meal.
“That would likely be the main motivation, yes.” He winced, and shifted on his
seat. Amelia hoped that he was more composed at the ICW.
seat. Amelia hoped that he was more composed at the ICW.
“And who are the countries behind this?”
“Well, I haven’t been at the ICW for very long yet,” Fawley said. “So, my
contacts are not as extensive as they could be.”
contacts are not as extensive as they could be.”
She rolled her eyes at his excuses. “Just tell me what you know.”
“France, Prussia, and Jamaica seem to be pushing for an inspection.”
“Jamaica?” Both France and Prussia had various ties to Britain, and the two
countries had been the main participants in Grindelwald’s War.
countries had been the main participants in Grindelwald’s War.
“Yes, they are still blaming us, Britain that is, for the incident in their
‘Library of Souls’.” He grimaced.
‘Library of Souls’.” He grimaced.
“I wouldn’t have expected many other countries to support them.” Houngans were
not popular outside their own countries, to say the least.
not popular outside their own countries, to say the least.
“I fear that most countries are unwilling to antagonise them for our sake.
Some might even look forward to see how we’re handling them.”
Some might even look forward to see how we’re handling them.”
Bloody cowards. “So, is there any chance to stop this inspection?”
“Not unless Dumbledore rises from the dead, Madam Minister.” He chuckled at
his tasteless joke, then cringed when she glared at him. “Our influence has
been greatly diminished by Dumbledore’s passing, and the news of the
devastation the war has caused…”
his tasteless joke, then cringed when she glared at him. “Our influence has
been greatly diminished by Dumbledore’s passing, and the news of the
devastation the war has caused…”
“I am quite aware of this.” Although she hadn’t been as aware of how Britain’s
international reputation had suffered. “Stall them as long as you can. We need
more time to prepare for this ‘inspection’.” The last thing Britain needed was
meddling foreigners.
international reputation had suffered. “Stall them as long as you can. We need
more time to prepare for this ‘inspection’.” The last thing Britain needed was
meddling foreigners.
“Yes, ma’am.”
At least he could take orders, she thought when she dismissed him.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, February 26th, 1997**
Lying on her bed and staring at the ceiling, Daphne Greengrass was starting to
feel like a prisoner again. Apart from visiting Tracey and family, she hadn’t
left her family’s mansion since her acquittal. It was just too dangerous,
according to her uncle — mudbloods were crowding Diagon Alley, and forcing
purebloods out of their homes under the eyes of the Aurors. It was a miracle
that no one had been killed yet. Officially, at least — Daphne didn’t know how
many had simply disappeared, either captured or killed. Like her.
feel like a prisoner again. Apart from visiting Tracey and family, she hadn’t
left her family’s mansion since her acquittal. It was just too dangerous,
according to her uncle — mudbloods were crowding Diagon Alley, and forcing
purebloods out of their homes under the eyes of the Aurors. It was a miracle
that no one had been killed yet. Officially, at least — Daphne didn’t know how
many had simply disappeared, either captured or killed. Like her.
Would they come for her? Would the Resistance blow up the manor, as they had
blown up Malfoy Manor? Her uncle didn’t think they would, but… maybe they
should move to the hunting lodge? Or to a house no one else knew? But that
would mean abandoning what friends she had left.
blown up Malfoy Manor? Her uncle didn’t think they would, but… maybe they
should move to the hunting lodge? Or to a house no one else knew? But that
would mean abandoning what friends she had left.
A knock on her door interrupted her thoughts. “Yes?” she called out.
“It’s me.” Astoria.
“Come in,” she said.
Her sister opened the door, then slipped inside, quickly closing it behind
her. Daphne was struck by how furtive it looked — as if her sister was hiding
from someone. She sat up and looked at her.
her. Daphne was struck by how furtive it looked — as if her sister was hiding
from someone. She sat up and looked at her.
Astoria fidgeted with her hands folded behind her back. “Daphne?”
“Yes?” Whatever it was her sister wanted to talk about, it must be important.
At least for Astoria.
At least for Astoria.
“Why don’t you want to help Theo?” Astoria ducked her head slightly.
Daphne felt anger well up inside her. “Has he been talking to you?” Her
sister’s flinch was all the answer she needed. “That… that…” she spat out,
seeking for the right word.
sister’s flinch was all the answer she needed. “That… that…” she spat out,
seeking for the right word.
“I called him!” Astoria said.
Daphne gasped. “Why did you do that?”
Astoria bit her lower lip. “I am sick of being afraid. And he is the only one
I know who’ll fight for us.”
I know who’ll fight for us.”
Daphne controlled herself. It wouldn’t do to snap at her sister — Astoria
didn’t know better. Even if she should. “He is a fool.”
didn’t know better. Even if she should. “He is a fool.”
“Why? Because he wants to fight the mudbloods?”
“Yes.”
Astoria gaped at her. “But…”
“I have fought them, as you know. And I was lucky to survive.” Daphne
shivered, remembering the disastrous attack on the Weasley’s home. And the
fight in the twins’ shop. And, worst of all, the Resistance’s attack on
Draco’s home. “Theo is an idiot. The Resistance will kill him, and anyone who
helps him.” The mudbloods were likely to kill anyone even remotely connected
to the fool — like they had murdered Daphne’s parents for attending Malfoy’s
ball.
shivered, remembering the disastrous attack on the Weasley’s home. And the
fight in the twins’ shop. And, worst of all, the Resistance’s attack on
Draco’s home. “Theo is an idiot. The Resistance will kill him, and anyone who
helps him.” The mudbloods were likely to kill anyone even remotely connected
to the fool — like they had murdered Daphne’s parents for attending Malfoy’s
ball.
“He says he’ll be more cautious. More careful.”
“He says a lot.” Daphne scoffed. “He thinks that if he stays back and uses
others he’ll be safe.”
others he’ll be safe.”
“Yes. If he doesn’t fight himself, and only uses pawns, he won’t get caught,”
Astoria said, nodding.
Astoria said, nodding.
“He doesn’t understand the mudbloods. They won’t care if they have proof or
not — they’ll kill him. Or they’ll capture him and interrogate him.” She
stared at Astoria. “They might do the same to us, since they know we were
working with him.”
not — they’ll kill him. Or they’ll capture him and interrogate him.” She
stared at Astoria. “They might do the same to us, since they know we were
working with him.”
“But… they can’t know who is doing it!”
She snorted. “They’re not stupid. They’ll suspect him. And us.” The mudbloods
might already think that Daphne and her friends had been behind the attack on
the rally.
might already think that Daphne and her friends had been behind the attack on
the rally.
“But that’s not fair! We haven’t done anything wrong!”
“Of course it’s not fair!” Daphne reined in her temper when she saw her sister
was crying. Standing up, she went and hugged Astoria. ‘We’ll get through this.
I promise.’ She suddenly had a thought. “Did he tell you who was helping him?”
was crying. Standing up, she went and hugged Astoria. ‘We’ll get through this.
I promise.’ She suddenly had a thought. “Did he tell you who was helping him?”
“No…” Astoria shook her head, her chin brushing Daphne’s shoulder. “He just
mentioned old family friends who knew how dangerous mudbloods were.”
mentioned old family friends who knew how dangerous mudbloods were.”
That could be any pureblood family from the continent, Daphne knew —
Grindelwald had used a lot of mudbloods in his war. “Promise me not to talk to
Theo without telling me beforehand, alright?”
Grindelwald had used a lot of mudbloods in his war. “Promise me not to talk to
Theo without telling me beforehand, alright?”
Astoria sniffled, then nodded. “I promise.”
“Thank you.” Daphne rubbed her sister’s back. She had to talk to Tracey about
this.
this.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 26th, 1997**
Sirius Black knew something was wrong the moment Vivienne stepped into his,
their bedroom. The Veela moved with her usual grace, but she was still wearing
her dress robes, and her expression… “What’s wrong, cherie? Trouble with your
family?” he asked. She had been out to meet her aunt for dinner. Without him.
their bedroom. The Veela moved with her usual grace, but she was still wearing
her dress robes, and her expression… “What’s wrong, cherie? Trouble with your
family?” he asked. She had been out to meet her aunt for dinner. Without him.
Vivienne sighed, then nodded.
He drew a deep breath. “They don’t like our relationship, I guess.” Sirius was
proud of his reputation as a rogue in Britain’s society, but the D’Aigles
might see things differently.
proud of his reputation as a rogue in Britain’s society, but the D’Aigles
might see things differently.
She shook her head. “Non. Not particularly, at least. They ’ave some concerns
about your past, and your political views, but overall…” She shrugged. “You’re
rich, and from an Old Family. Ma mére said I could ’ave done worse, and mon
pére knows better than to try to meddle in our lives without a very good
reason.”
about your past, and your political views, but overall…” She shrugged. “You’re
rich, and from an Old Family. Ma mére said I could ’ave done worse, and mon
pére knows better than to try to meddle in our lives without a very good
reason.”
Sirius wasn’t quite certain if he should be flattered. Her parents sounded a
bit too much like his own. He shelved the thought, though. He still didn’t
know what had upset her. “But?”
bit too much like his own. He shelved the thought, though. He still didn’t
know what had upset her. “But?”
She took a deep breath — he was briefly distracted by what that did to her
chest — and went on: “I was informed by my aunt that the Duc is interested in
British politics.”
chest — and went on: “I was informed by my aunt that the Duc is interested in
British politics.”
Sirius frowned. “Yes? I thought that was clear when he allowed the Delacours
to help us.”
to help us.”
“That was a family matter.” She winced. “This time, it seems it is a political
matter. There ’ave been concerns at the court about the direction Britain is
taking.”
matter. There ’ave been concerns at the court about the direction Britain is
taking.”
He blinked. “They are afraid of what the muggleborns will do?”
She nodded. “They trusted Dumbledore to, ah, ’andle them. But since ’e is
dead, they fear that the muggleborns will become too radical. The Duc ’as
mentioned Grindelwald, or so I was told.”
dead, they fear that the muggleborns will become too radical. The Duc ’as
mentioned Grindelwald, or so I was told.”
“Ah.” Sirius winced. That wasn’t good news. If France decided to support the
Old Families…
Old Families…
“They want me to spy on the Resistance.”
Sirius drew a hissing breath. That was even worse.
Vivienne nodded.
“What did you tell them?”
“I told them that I won’t betray your trust, or your friends’, but… I will not
be the only one they’ll ask.”
be the only one they’ll ask.”
Which meant Fleur would be contacted as well. And maybe others.
He sighed. “We’ll need to discuss this with the others.” The Order. And the
Resistance. Or rather, Hermione. And Harry.
Resistance. Or rather, Hermione. And Harry.
She was still standing in front of the bed, but when he held out his hand, she
took it and joined him on the bed.
took it and joined him on the bed.
That, at least, hadn’t changed.
---
**Dover, Britain, February 26th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood stared into the night, towards the coast of France. Less
than forty miles. A short trip with a broom. Disillusioned, there would be
almost no risk of being detected, especially if he made landfall a bit further
to the north or south. It was the easiest way to leave Britain as a fugitive
from the law. And the most logical.
than forty miles. A short trip with a broom. Disillusioned, there would be
almost no risk of being detected, especially if he made landfall a bit further
to the north or south. It was the easiest way to leave Britain as a fugitive
from the law. And the most logical.
Which was why he wouldn’t do it, of course. But the Ministry would assume he
had left for France, once they received his offer and tracked the owl back.
And even if they didn’t fall for his ruse, they couldn’t ignore the
possibility. Which meant there would be a few more of the Ministry’s resources
wasted on a pointless endeavour.
had left for France, once they received his offer and tracked the owl back.
And even if they didn’t fall for his ruse, they couldn’t ignore the
possibility. Which meant there would be a few more of the Ministry’s resources
wasted on a pointless endeavour.
He levitated the cage containing the owl he had acquired up and stared at the
bird. “Take this missive to the Ministry of Magic. Do you understand?”
bird. “Take this missive to the Ministry of Magic. Do you understand?”
The owl hooted and managed to sound indignant. He chuckled — post owls could
be quite prickly — while he shrunk the scroll and tied it to the bird’s leg.
be quite prickly — while he shrunk the scroll and tied it to the bird’s leg.
“Off you go!”
He mounted his broom and disillusioned himself while the owl circled around
him, then flew away. As soon as the owl was out of sight, he apparated. It
would take too long to fly to the port on a broom — he had a ship to catch
after all.
him, then flew away. As soon as the owl was out of sight, he apparated. It
would take too long to fly to the port on a broom — he had a ship to catch
after all.
Chapter 48: Unlikely Alliances
==============================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 48: Unlikely Alliances**
’*To understand the actions of Magical France, Magical Jamaica and the other
wizarding countries following the final defeat of the Dark Lord, one has to
understand the effect Albus Dumbledore had had on the Magical World. For more
than five decades, following his defeat of Grindelwald, he had been been
acknowledged as the most powerful wizard alive. In addition to that, he was
the Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards for a
significant part of that time — as well as the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot
in Wizarding Britain. And unlike others who had held those offices before him,
he had been willing to use his power to change the Magical World. While he
hadn’t advocated his views concerning muggleborn rights quite as openly on the
international stage as he had in Britain itself, he hadn’t left any doubt as
to where he stood. Those countries who had taken harsh measures against
muggleborns following Grindelwald’s defeat had soon reconsidered their
policies, none of their governments being willing to risk provoking Dumbledore
into taking action himself. For they, especially those countries which had
been ravaged by Grindelwald, had been all too aware of what Dumbledore could
have unleashed, should he have felt the need.*
wizarding countries following the final defeat of the Dark Lord, one has to
understand the effect Albus Dumbledore had had on the Magical World. For more
than five decades, following his defeat of Grindelwald, he had been been
acknowledged as the most powerful wizard alive. In addition to that, he was
the Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards for a
significant part of that time — as well as the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot
in Wizarding Britain. And unlike others who had held those offices before him,
he had been willing to use his power to change the Magical World. While he
hadn’t advocated his views concerning muggleborn rights quite as openly on the
international stage as he had in Britain itself, he hadn’t left any doubt as
to where he stood. Those countries who had taken harsh measures against
muggleborns following Grindelwald’s defeat had soon reconsidered their
policies, none of their governments being willing to risk provoking Dumbledore
into taking action himself. For they, especially those countries which had
been ravaged by Grindelwald, had been all too aware of what Dumbledore could
have unleashed, should he have felt the need.*
*And so his influence had been quite keenly felt, even though he had rarely
taken action himself — his actions against the Caribbean houngans as well as
the Barbary Coast raiders being notable exceptions — and had equally seldom
used the threat of force. Therefore, even those countries sympathetic to the
Blood purist cause had restrained from providing support, much less
intervening in the First Blood War. They followed that policy in the Second
Blood War as well, although France semi-officially intervened on the side of
Dumbledore’s Order of the Phoenix following the incident in the Bastille in
1996.*
taken action himself — his actions against the Caribbean houngans as well as
the Barbary Coast raiders being notable exceptions — and had equally seldom
used the threat of force. Therefore, even those countries sympathetic to the
Blood purist cause had restrained from providing support, much less
intervening in the First Blood War. They followed that policy in the Second
Blood War as well, although France semi-officially intervened on the side of
Dumbledore’s Order of the Phoenix following the incident in the Bastille in
1996.*
*Therefore, it wasn’t surprising that after Dumbledore’s death a number of
countries re-evaluated their policies — only to discover that while Dumbledore
had been killed, Britain had not been left powerless.’*
countries re-evaluated their policies — only to discover that while Dumbledore
had been killed, Britain had not been left powerless.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Bexley, February 28th, 1997**
Hermione Granger had dressed up again, even though her cover as Justin’s
girlfriend, weak to begin with, was obsolete now that Justin and Sally-Anne
were a couple. But as Justin had said, it wouldn’t do to appear poor when
hiring mercenaries.
girlfriend, weak to begin with, was obsolete now that Justin and Sally-Anne
were a couple. But as Justin had said, it wouldn’t do to appear poor when
hiring mercenaries.
So she stuffed her hands into the pockets of an expensive and fashionable
jacket while she and her friend made their way through the park. She gripped
her wand with one hand, and a pistol with the other, of course — just in case.
jacket while she and her friend made their way through the park. She gripped
her wand with one hand, and a pistol with the other, of course — just in case.
When the two reached the meeting spot, a small café, she spotted the two
mercenaries seated inside. Her Human-presence-revealing Spell didn’t show any
hidden observers, and the other guests seemed harmless — a few teenagers,
probably out of school a little early. Not quite as early as the beers the
soldiers were drinking.
mercenaries seated inside. Her Human-presence-revealing Spell didn’t show any
hidden observers, and the other guests seemed harmless — a few teenagers,
probably out of school a little early. Not quite as early as the beers the
soldiers were drinking.
Justin held the door open for her as they entered, but then took the lead as
they approached the two men. “Good afternoon, Major, Sergeant.”
they approached the two men. “Good afternoon, Major, Sergeant.”
“Good afternoon, Mister, Miss,” The Major answered while the Sergeant grunted.
Hermione nodded at them, then took her seat and cast a privacy spell under the
table. She noticed the Major tensing up before he seemed to force himself to
relax. So, he hadn’t forgotten. The Sergeant simply scowled, but that was his
usual expression, as far as Hermione could tell.
table. She noticed the Major tensing up before he seemed to force himself to
relax. So, he hadn’t forgotten. The Sergeant simply scowled, but that was his
usual expression, as far as Hermione could tell.
After she and Justin had ordered — tea for both of them — the Major leaned
forward. “You paid us quite generously to meet you.”
forward. “You paid us quite generously to meet you.”
“Had to cancel another contract,” the Sergeant muttered before drinking from
his beer again.
his beer again.
“Yes.” Justin nodded at them. ‘We would like to hire you as instructors again.
Like last time.’ He smiled. “We are quite satisfied with the training you
provided.”
Like last time.’ He smiled. “We are quite satisfied with the training you
provided.”
“The same group as before?” The Major set his glass down.
“No. Some of them will attend as well, but mostly to supervise the others,”
Hermione said. “You will be teaching fresh recruits.” Justin glanced at her,
but didn’t comment.
Hermione said. “You will be teaching fresh recruits.” Justin glanced at her,
but didn’t comment.
“The next year’s out of school already?” The Sergeant scoffed.
Justin shook his head. “No.”
As Hermione knew, they had recruited all the suitable students in their years.
And some they shouldn’t have recruited, like the Creevey brothers. If she
hadn’t let them into the Resistance… but they had fought well, too.
And some they shouldn’t have recruited, like the Creevey brothers. If she
hadn’t let them into the Resistance… but they had fought well, too.
“The new recruits are generally a bit older,” Justin went on.
Not that much older, though, Hermione knew. They had picked younger recruits.
Less set in their ways, or so they hoped. And also, more willing to follow her
lead.
Less set in their ways, or so they hoped. And also, more willing to follow her
lead.
“How many?”
“About one-and-a-half dozen,” Justin replied.
Hermione nodded. They had contacted a number, and would look up a few more,
but she didn’t expect to find many more she’d trust. Even with the amendments
to the contract for the Resistance she had prepared. There wouldn’t be another
Allan on her watch.
but she didn’t expect to find many more she’d trust. Even with the amendments
to the contract for the Resistance she had prepared. There wouldn’t be another
Allan on her watch.
“That’s more than your first batch. You’re expanding.” The Major was glancing
at her, Hermione noticed.
at her, Hermione noticed.
She inclined her head. “Expanding and replacing.”
“Haven’t heard anything about a bunch of English kids fightin’ a war.” The
Sergeant had placed his beer down as well. “Not in Ulster, and not anywhere
else. Not even from the cartels.”
Sergeant had placed his beer down as well. “Not in Ulster, and not anywhere
else. Not even from the cartels.”
“You wouldn’t have heard of it,” Justin said. He wasn’t quite admitting that
they had been fighting, but he might as well have. But this way, they’d not be
breaking the Statue of Secrecy.
they had been fighting, but he might as well have. But this way, they’d not be
breaking the Statue of Secrecy.
The Sergeant scoffed again, louder, and drained his glass. “As long as the
money’s good, and no one comes after me…”
money’s good, and no one comes after me…”
“They won’t.” Justin smiled slightly.
“You mean, they haven’t so far,” the Major said, staring at him.
“They’re not in any state to come after you.” Justin’s smile was more feral
than friendly.
than friendly.
The Sergeant snorted, but the Major nodded. “Why are you expanding then?”
“It’s better to be prepared,” Hermione said. “If all goes well, there won’t be
any action.” She shrugged.
any action.” She shrugged.
She thought that the Major really wanted to ask what they had done, but the
man simply nodded. “Same place as before?”
man simply nodded. “Same place as before?”
“Yes. We’ll send you a note when the camp’s ready. It shouldn’t take longer
than a week or two. You’ll be compensated for the time spent waiting as well,
of course,” Justin said, his upper-class accent in full force.
than a week or two. You’ll be compensated for the time spent waiting as well,
of course,” Justin said, his upper-class accent in full force.
“Alright.”
Hammering out the details, especially the compensation the mercenaries would
receive, took a little longer, but the deal was done.
receive, took a little longer, but the deal was done.
The Resistance would be able to replenish their ranks.
Just in case they should be needed.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, February 28th, 1997**
“You want to what?”
Ron Weasley didn’t flinch at the volume of his mum’s yell. He didn’t take a
step back, either — he had faced the Dark Lord, after all. His mum’s temper
didn’t really measure up. And he had expected that reaction.
step back, either — he had faced the Dark Lord, after all. His mum’s temper
didn’t really measure up. And he had expected that reaction.
“I said I’ll be training with the Resistance for a month or so.” He folded his
arms and leaned against the counter in Sirius’s kitchen.
arms and leaned against the counter in Sirius’s kitchen.
His mum stared at him, while behind her, the ladles kept stirring the pots on
the stove. “You want to leave Hogwarts for that?” she asked after a second,
not quite yelling anymore. “For her?”
the stove. “You want to leave Hogwarts for that?” she asked after a second,
not quite yelling anymore. “For her?”
“It’s just a month.” Maybe he should have asked Harry and Sirius to be there
as well, but… he would be seventeen tomorrow. He wouldn’t hide behind others
when talking to his mum.
as well, but… he would be seventeen tomorrow. He wouldn’t hide behind others
when talking to his mum.
“That’s a long time, so close to the exams.” She shook her head.
“I’ll be able to study with Hermione. And it’s just the sixth year, not the
N.E.W.T.s.”
N.E.W.T.s.”
“You’ll also be joining the Resistance.” Her wand twitched, and she pointed it
at the floor.
at the floor.
“No. Just training with them, in case the Old Families try something.”
“They won’t care about the difference.” His mum was no longer speaking loudly.
“They don’t care about the difference anyway. Thanks to the Prophet, everyone
knows that me and Hermione are a couple.” He couldn’t help smiling when he
said it. “Someone’s bound to come after me to get her.”
knows that me and Hermione are a couple.” He couldn’t help smiling when he
said it. “Someone’s bound to come after me to get her.”
She drew a hissing breath. “They can’t get you at Hogwarts.”
“I wouldn’t stay at Hogwarts if there’s fighting.” He met her eyes and didn’t
look away. Not even when he spotted the tears. “And the training will help
keep me safe, if there is another battle.”
look away. Not even when he spotted the tears. “And the training will help
keep me safe, if there is another battle.”
She turned away, checking on the pots. Or acting like she was. When she spoke
again, it was in a rather small voice — for his mum — and with her back turned
to him. “Just like my brothers…”
again, it was in a rather small voice — for his mum — and with her back turned
to him. “Just like my brothers…”
He was tempted to say ‘and mine’, but pressed his lips together instead. He
didn’t want to hurt his mum, but he wouldn’t let Hermione down.
didn’t want to hurt his mum, but he wouldn’t let Hermione down.
For a little while, neither said anything while she kept checking the pots and
seasoning the meal. Finally, she turned around again. “I know I can’t dissuade
you from this.” She took a deep breath. “But I doubt that your teachers will
be pleased.”
seasoning the meal. Finally, she turned around again. “I know I can’t dissuade
you from this.” She took a deep breath. “But I doubt that your teachers will
be pleased.”
He shrugged. “What can they do? They won’t expel me for helping Harry and
Hermione.” Well, they could, but they wouldn’t. Not after Harry had defeated
Voldemort for good. He tried not to be too blatant about it, but they had to
know he left the school whenever he wanted these days.
Hermione.” Well, they could, but they wouldn’t. Not after Harry had defeated
Voldemort for good. He tried not to be too blatant about it, but they had to
know he left the school whenever he wanted these days.
She was frowning, but didn’t contradict him. “If I didn’t know you’d do it
anyway…”
anyway…”
Ron fought not to smile. He knew that tone.
“At least she’ll make certain that you keep up your studies.” His mum sighed.
He nodded. He had done it. If his mum agreed, his dad wouldn’t raise a fuss.
Suddenly, her eyes narrowed again. “But I don’t want any grandchildren yet.
Not from you, at least. So you better make certain you’re…” She made a vague
motion with her hand. “You know, use the potion.”
Not from you, at least. So you better make certain you’re…” She made a vague
motion with her hand. “You know, use the potion.”
Ron blushed — he hadn’t thought that topic would come up. He coughed. It
wasn’t as if they had made plans, but… there was a sort of understanding. “Of
course,” he mumbled.
wasn’t as if they had made plans, but… there was a sort of understanding. “Of
course,” he mumbled.
“Good.”
When she returned to preparing the meal, he all but fled the kitchen.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 1st, 1997**
The tension in Diagon Alley had grown worse again, Sirius Black thought while
he walked towards the Leaky Cauldron. There were fewer people out and about
than during his last stroll, and many passers-by seemed to be in a rush to get
where they were going.
he walked towards the Leaky Cauldron. There were fewer people out and about
than during his last stroll, and many passers-by seemed to be in a rush to get
where they were going.
It was, he realised with a start, about as bad as during the worst days of the
war after Dumbledore’s death. Even the muggleborns were not out in force, and
the groups he saw looked quite tense, as if they expected to be attacked any
moment. Which was probably true, he thought — all it took was one Imperius
Curse, and anyone could be forced to attack them. And that spell was quite
popular among Death Eaters.
war after Dumbledore’s death. Even the muggleborns were not out in force, and
the groups he saw looked quite tense, as if they expected to be attacked any
moment. Which was probably true, he thought — all it took was one Imperius
Curse, and anyone could be forced to attack them. And that spell was quite
popular among Death Eaters.
He suddenly noticed that he had passed Quality Quidditch Supplies without
checking the displays — he was hurrying towards his destination as well!
Sirius cursed under his breath, then turned around and took care to study the
line of discounted brooms. Or at least act as if he was doing so — he kept an
eye on the Alley, of course, lest he fall victim to an attack.
checking the displays — he was hurrying towards his destination as well!
Sirius cursed under his breath, then turned around and took care to study the
line of discounted brooms. Or at least act as if he was doing so — he kept an
eye on the Alley, of course, lest he fall victim to an attack.
No one else followed his example, though. Not even the shop’s owner stepped
out to praise his wares.
out to praise his wares.
---
Upon stepping out of the fireplace in the Ministry’s Atrium and passing
through the Thief’s Downfall there, he was greeted by Arthur. “Good afternoon,
Sirius.”
through the Thief’s Downfall there, he was greeted by Arthur. “Good afternoon,
Sirius.”
Sirius raised his eyebrows. “Have you been waiting for me?”
The other wizard nodded. “I heard you’re meeting with Amelia.”
It seemed that the rumour mill was still the most efficient part of the
Ministry, Sirius thought. He nodded and cast a privacy spell. “You are
correct. Do you know what this is about?” It would have to be important to be
called to the Ministry on a Saturday afternoon, and he hadn’t heard about any
emergency.
Ministry, Sirius thought. He nodded and cast a privacy spell. “You are
correct. Do you know what this is about?” It would have to be important to be
called to the Ministry on a Saturday afternoon, and he hadn’t heard about any
emergency.
“Only rumours. Amelia has met with Fowley again,” Arthur said as they walked
to the lift.
to the lift.
“That means trouble with the ICW.” Sirius frowned. That body was dominated by
pureblood governments.
pureblood governments.
“Not necessarily,” Arthur said as the lift arrived.
“Maybe it’s about the general mood on the street.” Sirius shook his head. ‘One
attack on a rally, and everyone is back in the war.’ He was, as well, though
he was making an effort not to be. “I hope we can get more Thief’s Downfalls
installed — or whatever the twins are cooking up. The people on the street
need to feel safer.”
attack on a rally, and everyone is back in the war.’ He was, as well, though
he was making an effort not to be. “I hope we can get more Thief’s Downfalls
installed — or whatever the twins are cooking up. The people on the street
need to feel safer.”
“Indeed. Though they won’t be completely safe, not ever. All it takes is one
wizard in the Alley casting one spell and then leaving, and we could have a
war on our hands, if worst comes to worst.”
wizard in the Alley casting one spell and then leaving, and we could have a
war on our hands, if worst comes to worst.”
“It’ll help some,” Sirius said.
“It’ll be expensive as well.”
“I’m certain the Wizengamot will finance it,” Sirius said. Skimping on public
safety wouldn’t go over well with the public, and he knew how to spread the
word about that.
safety wouldn’t go over well with the public, and he knew how to spread the
word about that.
Before they could talk more, though, they arrived on the Minister’s floor and
Sirius had to leave the lift while Arthur travelled on.
Sirius had to leave the lift while Arthur travelled on.
---
Amelia looked like always — tense, frowning and far too stuck up, Sirius
thought as he entered the Minister’s office. He smiled widely at her anyway.
“Good afternoon, Amelia!”
thought as he entered the Minister’s office. He smiled widely at her anyway.
“Good afternoon, Amelia!”
“Good afternoon, Sirius.”
Amelia’s smile was about as honest as a Malfoy, in Sirius’s opinion. But, as
he nodded at Thicknesse, he had to admit, if only to himself, that she was
brave — he wouldn’t have allowed a snake like the current Head of the DMLE to
stand behind him.
he nodded at Thicknesse, he had to admit, if only to himself, that she was
brave — he wouldn’t have allowed a snake like the current Head of the DMLE to
stand behind him.
Sirius sat down and leaned back in his seat. “I don’t suppose you called me
here on a Saturday just to exchange pleasantries.”
here on a Saturday just to exchange pleasantries.”
Amelia’s smile vanished. “Everyone is working overtime in the Ministry to
rebuild the country. Over the weekend as well.”
rebuild the country. Over the weekend as well.”
“Everyone but the Wizengamot,” Sirius said, baring his teeth. “Isn’t that
interesting?”
interesting?”
She didn’t take the bait. “I’m not about to comment on the work of the
Wizengamot.” She smiled thinly. “The ICW has decided to send a delegation to
Britain, to ‘determine if the current state of Britain’s Ministry endangers
the International Statute of Secrecy’,” she quoted, handing a scroll to
Sirius.
Wizengamot.” She smiled thinly. “The ICW has decided to send a delegation to
Britain, to ‘determine if the current state of Britain’s Ministry endangers
the International Statute of Secrecy’,” she quoted, handing a scroll to
Sirius.
Sirius skimmed it. It was full of the usual drivel from politicians, taking
far too many words to say very little. “That’s the proposal.”
far too many words to say very little. “That’s the proposal.”
“We haven’t received the official note yet,” Amelia said, “but our delegate
informed me that it was passed.”
informed me that it was passed.”
“With how many votes?” he asked.
“It was a comfortable margin,” Thicknesse threw in. Sirius caught Amelia
frowning briefly. “The European countries pushed for it, mainly France and
Prussia. But Jamaica supported it as well.”
frowning briefly. “The European countries pushed for it, mainly France and
Prussia. But Jamaica supported it as well.”
Which usually meant that many of the American Enclaves would have opposed it
on principle, Sirius knew. But the proposal had been passed. He shrugged.
“Payback for Dumbledore’s policies?”
on principle, Sirius knew. But the proposal had been passed. He shrugged.
“Payback for Dumbledore’s policies?”
“In part,” Amelia said. “Fowley told me that there’s widespread interest in
the state of Wizarding Britain now that the war has ended.”
the state of Wizarding Britain now that the war has ended.”
“The vultures want to know what we have left after Dumbledore’s death,” Sirius
said, scoffing.
said, scoffing.
“Yes.” Amelia folded her hands and rested her chin on them. “I’m very much
aware of the state of the Ministry, as I know you are, also.”
aware of the state of the Ministry, as I know you are, also.”
Sirius shrugged. She knew that the Order had quite a number of members and
friends inside the Ministry. “So, the ICW wants to spy on Britain, and you
want to spy on us.”
friends inside the Ministry. “So, the ICW wants to spy on Britain, and you
want to spy on us.”
Amelia’s lips almost disappeared when she pressed them together before
answering. “The ICW’s mandate covers the Statute of Secrecy, but you know that
many countries are concerned about Britain’s muggleborns. If they think
Britain’s weak, they’ll start to meddle in our affairs.” She smiled toothily
at him. “I don’t think either you or the Resistance want foreign countries
involved in our politics.”
answering. “The ICW’s mandate covers the Statute of Secrecy, but you know that
many countries are concerned about Britain’s muggleborns. If they think
Britain’s weak, they’ll start to meddle in our affairs.” She smiled toothily
at him. “I don’t think either you or the Resistance want foreign countries
involved in our politics.”
She was correct, of course — apart from some small enclaves in North America
there weren’t any countries dominated by muggleborns. And those were usually
too busy fighting wars with other enclaves and some of the native tribes to
get involved in international politics. Most countries were dominated by
purebloods and not particularly friendly towards muggleborns.
there weren’t any countries dominated by muggleborns. And those were usually
too busy fighting wars with other enclaves and some of the native tribes to
get involved in international politics. Most countries were dominated by
purebloods and not particularly friendly towards muggleborns.
Sirius stared at her. “And why would you oppose them? I’m certain that the Old
Families wouldn’t mind foreign help.”
Families wouldn’t mind foreign help.”
Once again, Thicknesse cut in. “Foreign intervention could cause the conflict
between the different factions of the Wizengamot to escalate into another
war.” He spread his hands. “There’s not much popular support for foreign
Aurors and Hit-Wizards.”
between the different factions of the Wizengamot to escalate into another
war.” He spread his hands. “There’s not much popular support for foreign
Aurors and Hit-Wizards.”
“What you mean is that if the Old Families call for foreign intervention,
they’ll lose what support they have among the gullible purebloods,” Sirius
said, “while the war turns into a war against foreign invaders and the
traitorous regime that called them.”
they’ll lose what support they have among the gullible purebloods,” Sirius
said, “while the war turns into a war against foreign invaders and the
traitorous regime that called them.”
Amelia’s expression told him he was on the mark. The Minister glared at him.
“Britain cannot afford another war, no matter what kind.”
“Britain cannot afford another war, no matter what kind.”
“Tell that to the idiots in the Wizengamot,” Sirius shot back. “They’re trying
very hard to start another war.”
very hard to start another war.”
“They’re not the ones threatening violence if their demands are not met.”
Amelia gripped the edge of her desk with her hands.
Amelia gripped the edge of her desk with her hands.
“I think that this current crisis is an opportunity to demonstrate just how
damaging a war would be to both the ICW and the Wizengamot,” Thicknesse said,
smiling faintly.
damaging a war would be to both the ICW and the Wizengamot,” Thicknesse said,
smiling faintly.
Amelia glared at him, and for a moment, Sirius thought the witch would curse
her subordinate. She controlled herself, though. “That’s a point to consider,”
she said.
her subordinate. She controlled herself, though. “That’s a point to consider,”
she said.
Sirius almost rolled his eyes. “I fear some among our esteemed members of the
Wizengamot do not realise how much Britain has been changed by the war.” He
chuckled. ‘They might not even be aware how much the Ministry has changed due
to the losses during the war. So, what exactly do you want? A demonstration by
the Resistance? They could blow up another manor.’ When he saw the glares from
the others, he grinned. “Consider it a last resort. Though I have to point out
that I cannot speak for the Resistance.”
Wizengamot do not realise how much Britain has been changed by the war.” He
chuckled. ‘They might not even be aware how much the Ministry has changed due
to the losses during the war. So, what exactly do you want? A demonstration by
the Resistance? They could blow up another manor.’ When he saw the glares from
the others, he grinned. “Consider it a last resort. Though I have to point out
that I cannot speak for the Resistance.”
“I believe it would be sufficient to show the delegation that while we have
our differences, Britain is not as divided as it may look to outsiders.”
Thicknesse smiled. “It might be better if we let them wonder about exactly
what the Resistance is capable of.”
our differences, Britain is not as divided as it may look to outsiders.”
Thicknesse smiled. “It might be better if we let them wonder about exactly
what the Resistance is capable of.”
Such a demonstration of unity would also undermine the position of the
Resistance among the rest of the muggleborns, Sirius knew. That would have to
be carefully handled. “That is true, but in the current situation, the
muggleborns would need a few concessions, or they could cause trouble.”
Resistance among the rest of the muggleborns, Sirius knew. That would have to
be carefully handled. “That is true, but in the current situation, the
muggleborns would need a few concessions, or they could cause trouble.”
“Are you trying to use this crisis to coerce the Wizengamot into giving in to
your demands, risking a war?” Amelia sounded scandalised.
your demands, risking a war?” Amelia sounded scandalised.
He was, actually — but it wasn’t as if he had a choice. “Have you walked
through Diagon Alley lately?” Sirius snorted. “It feels like a cauldron on the
verge of boiling over. The Resistance won’t be able to control everyone, and
it only takes one idiot at the wrong place to start something.”
through Diagon Alley lately?” Sirius snorted. “It feels like a cauldron on the
verge of boiling over. The Resistance won’t be able to control everyone, and
it only takes one idiot at the wrong place to start something.”
“The Wizengamot will not agree to the radical changes that the muggleborns
demand,” Thicknesse said. “Not at the moment, at least.”
demand,” Thicknesse said. “Not at the moment, at least.”
“Further, the Muggleborn Laws were repealed already, and the Ministry’s
working on determining the compensation owed to the victims of those laws, or
their abuse,” Amelia said.
working on determining the compensation owed to the victims of those laws, or
their abuse,” Amelia said.
“That’s simply the restoration of the status quo ante anyway.” And the
muggleborns wanted more. ‘Of course, refusing to reward the Resistance for
their actions in the war against the Dark Lord didn’t help.’ Sirius grinned.
“I believe I made a proposal to that effect, which was, unfortunately, not
accepted by the Wizengamot.”
muggleborns wanted more. ‘Of course, refusing to reward the Resistance for
their actions in the war against the Dark Lord didn’t help.’ Sirius grinned.
“I believe I made a proposal to that effect, which was, unfortunately, not
accepted by the Wizengamot.”
“You want the Wizengamot to award Granger an Order of Merlin,” Amelia spat.
“And a seat on the Wizengamot. For her, and for Ron Weasley.” Sirius’s grin
widened. “A fine gesture, showing that the Dark Lord was defeated by
purebloods and muggleborns and half-bloods, all working together. Something to
celebrate as well.”
widened. “A fine gesture, showing that the Dark Lord was defeated by
purebloods and muggleborns and half-bloods, all working together. Something to
celebrate as well.”
Amelia looked like she had just discovered bubotuber pus in her tea.
Thicknesse, though, was nodding. “I think with the added factor of the ICW’s
inspection, and the damage and loss of face a riot would cause to Britain,
those concessions would be acceptable to the more pragmatic members of the
Wizengamot.”
Thicknesse, though, was nodding. “I think with the added factor of the ICW’s
inspection, and the damage and loss of face a riot would cause to Britain,
those concessions would be acceptable to the more pragmatic members of the
Wizengamot.”
“Great. I have to discuss this with Hermione, of course.” Sirius smiled.
Amelia clearly didn’t like that either — she would have to know Hermione would
have a few more things to say — but she didn’t comment further. “There’s the
matter of Harry Potter as well.”
have a few more things to say — but she didn’t comment further. “There’s the
matter of Harry Potter as well.”
Sirius narrowed his eyes. “Yes?”
“He defeated the Dark Lord in a duel and was personally trained by Dumbledore.
That leads to certain assumptions,” Thicknesse said.
That leads to certain assumptions,” Thicknesse said.
Amelia glanced at the wizard, frowning, then stared at Sirius. “How powerful
is the Boy-Who-Lived?”
is the Boy-Who-Lived?”
Sirius had expected that. “You want to know if he can serve as the next
Dumbledore, scaring the rest of the world into leaving Britain alone.”
Dumbledore, scaring the rest of the world into leaving Britain alone.”
“Yes,” Amelia said.
And that also would tell her if Harry could scare the Wizengamot as well,
Sirius knew. He shrugged. “He received special training to defeat the Dark
Lord, but he doesn’t have Dumbledore’s experience.”
Sirius knew. He shrugged. “He received special training to defeat the Dark
Lord, but he doesn’t have Dumbledore’s experience.”
Amelia seemed to grind her teeth. “I know that. Everyone knows that. But can
he stand up to the ICW?”
he stand up to the ICW?”
Sirius chuckled. “Anyone can stand up to the ICW. But making it stick?” He
shrugged. ‘Harry’s very talented in Defence. He faced the Dark Lord multiple
times in the past. He drove away dozens of Dementors with a single corporeal
Patronus Charm when he was fourteen years old.’ Sirius managed not to shiver
when the memories of that night flashed before his eyes. He had come so close
to losing his soul… He shook his head. “I think his Patronus Charm should
impress the ICW delegation enough.”
shrugged. ‘Harry’s very talented in Defence. He faced the Dark Lord multiple
times in the past. He drove away dozens of Dementors with a single corporeal
Patronus Charm when he was fourteen years old.’ Sirius managed not to shiver
when the memories of that night flashed before his eyes. He had come so close
to losing his soul… He shook his head. “I think his Patronus Charm should
impress the ICW delegation enough.”
“Could he duel some of them? An exhibition, perhaps?” Thicknesse smiled as if
he wasn’t trying to find any weaknesses of Sirius’s godson.
he wasn’t trying to find any weaknesses of Sirius’s godson.
He scoffed and deflected the question. “He’s no duellist. That’s not what he
was trained for. He certainly didn’t kill the Dark Lord using tournament
rules.” Sirius couldn’t tell if Amelia and Thicknesse believed his bluff, but
they nodded. So he decided to throw a curving Quaffle at them. “You should
also contact Aberforth Dumbledore.”
was trained for. He certainly didn’t kill the Dark Lord using tournament
rules.” Sirius couldn’t tell if Amelia and Thicknesse believed his bluff, but
they nodded. So he decided to throw a curving Quaffle at them. “You should
also contact Aberforth Dumbledore.”
“Aberforth Dumbledore?” Thicknesse sounded doubtful. “The owner of the Hog’s
Head Inn?”
Head Inn?”
Sirius grinned. Aberforth wouldn’t be happy about this, but he had to deflect
the attention away from Harry. If others learned about the Elder Wand… “He
faced the Dark Lord multiple times and lived as well. He might not be as
famous as his brother, but he certainly has far more experience than most
people know.”
the attention away from Harry. If others learned about the Elder Wand… “He
faced the Dark Lord multiple times and lived as well. He might not be as
famous as his brother, but he certainly has far more experience than most
people know.”
“I see,” Amelia said.
Sirius wasn’t certain what she was thinking, but he nodded anyway. “Good. How
much time do we have until the delegation arrives?”
much time do we have until the delegation arrives?”
“We need to be officially contacted, and then have to make arrangements. One
week, maybe two if they’re not as prepared as they could be,” Thicknesse said.
‘Having a houngan among the delegation might cause some delays.’ He smiled.
“That’s another possible spot of trouble.”
week, maybe two if they’re not as prepared as they could be,” Thicknesse said.
‘Having a houngan among the delegation might cause some delays.’ He smiled.
“That’s another possible spot of trouble.”
Amelia scoffed. “We don’t know anything about what Dumbledore was doing before
he died. And we certainly will not let a houngan roam Britain.”
he died. And we certainly will not let a houngan roam Britain.”
Thicknesse didn’t look quite certain, but nodded.
“If that’s all…” Sirius stood up. “I’ll have to talk to Hermione.”
“No, there’s nothing else to be discussed right now,” Amelia said. Thicknesse
glanced at the witch again, so he had probably expected her to mention
something else. Sirius made a mental note to look into that.
glanced at the witch again, so he had probably expected her to mention
something else. Sirius made a mental note to look into that.
“I’ll be off then.” He smiled and waved before leaving.
---
Arthur’s office wasn’t as large as Amelia’s, but far bigger than his last one,
Sirius noticed when he leaned on the doorway and looked inside. There were
quite a number of muggle items spread around the office as well, but not as
many as there had been. “Still working?” he asked as Arthur looked up.
Sirius noticed when he leaned on the doorway and looked inside. There were
quite a number of muggle items spread around the office as well, but not as
many as there had been. “Still working?” he asked as Arthur looked up.
The other wizard smiled. “As the Head of the Office of Anti-Curse Measures and
Research, I’m expected to work hard on finding a cure for the Withering
Curse.”
Research, I’m expected to work hard on finding a cure for the Withering
Curse.”
“I thought the Unspeakables had taken the lead there.” Sirius stepped inside
and closed the door.
and closed the door.
“They have.” Arthur sighed. “And my own resources are rather limited compared
to theirs. I have set the researchers I can spare on it, for all the good
it’ll do.”
to theirs. I have set the researchers I can spare on it, for all the good
it’ll do.”
“You don’t sound too optimistic.” Sirius leaned against the door and crossed
his arms.
his arms.
“Even though it sounds callous, the Withering Curse is not an urgent problem.
Unlike the Imperius Curse. We should focus our efforts on improving our
defences against that danger.” Arthur shook his head. “But the Wizengamot
doesn’t share my opinion, not when they are safely behind Thief’s Downfall
already.”
Unlike the Imperius Curse. We should focus our efforts on improving our
defences against that danger.” Arthur shook his head. “But the Wizengamot
doesn’t share my opinion, not when they are safely behind Thief’s Downfall
already.”
“I’m certain that the public will not be as understanding. They are afraid to
step outside their homes and shops.” Sirius grinned. “Not even the Prophet
might be able to keep a lid on that, if we present it just right.”
step outside their homes and shops.” Sirius grinned. “Not even the Prophet
might be able to keep a lid on that, if we present it just right.”
“We can reroute Floo Network traffic through checkpoints,” Arthur said. “That
will make travel to and from shops take more time, but it’ll be safer.”
will make travel to and from shops take more time, but it’ll be safer.”
“Provided there isn’t a traitor inside the Ministry,” Sirius pointed out. That
was one of the reasons they hadn’t instituted such a measure during the war.
The other was that the traitors had opposed it as well.
was one of the reasons they hadn’t instituted such a measure during the war.
The other was that the traitors had opposed it as well.
“I think we’re rather safe in that regard, now at least.” Arthur smiled wryly.
Sirius wasn’t quite that optimistic, but most spies and traitors left would
think twice about taking any risks with the Dark Lord dead. “I certainly hope
so.”
think twice about taking any risks with the Dark Lord dead. “I certainly hope
so.”
“What did Amelia want from you?”
“She wants to present the upcoming ICW inspection with a united front — the
Ministry, the Order and the Resistance,” Sirius said. “I told her that more
concessions for the muggleborns are needed for that to work. Like rewarding
Hermione and Ron with an Order of Merlin and a seat on the Wizengamot.”
Ministry, the Order and the Resistance,” Sirius said. “I told her that more
concessions for the muggleborns are needed for that to work. Like rewarding
Hermione and Ron with an Order of Merlin and a seat on the Wizengamot.”
Arthur seemed surprised. “I thought you just did that to annoy the
Wizengamot.”
Wizengamot.”
“Well, not just.” Sirius chuckled. “But every vote in the Wizengamot counts.”
“But…” Arthur closed his mouth.
“If Harry can have a seat, then Ron can have one as well.” It went without
saying that Hermione should have one; the witch had clearly defined political
goals.
saying that Hermione should have one; the witch had clearly defined political
goals.
“Today is Ron’s seventeenth birthday,”
Sirius remembered his own seventeenth birthday, and smiled. “An important date
for a wizard.”
for a wizard.”
“Yes. They’ll be celebrating in the evening, at Hogwarts.” Arthur smiled as
well, though his expression seemed a bit off. “For a change.”
well, though his expression seemed a bit off. “For a change.”
“Ah.” Sirius nodded. That was what Arthur wanted to talk about. “He told you
about the training.”
about the training.”
“He told Molly,” Arthur said as they entered the lift. “And she told me.”
Those would have been interesting conversations, Sirius thought. He had heard
about the former, but not the latter. “I see.”
about the former, but not the latter. “I see.”
“Harry’s going as well, or so I heard.”
“Can’t separate them.” Sirius grinned. With a more serious expression, he
added: “It’ll keep them safer than staying at Hogwarts.”
added: “It’ll keep them safer than staying at Hogwarts.”
“I know. But I worry anyway. And not just about possible battles.”
Sirius frowned. “Harry’s not going to be joining the Resistance. And everyone
already knows that he’s very close to Hermione.” The idiots reading the
Prophet thought he was even closer to the witch.
already knows that he’s very close to Hermione.” The idiots reading the
Prophet thought he was even closer to the witch.
“I didn’t mean that either,” Arthur said. ‘We’re pretty much united in our
desire to reform the Wizengamot.’ He took a deep breath. “Are you certain that
there won’t be trouble with the three staying together for a month?”
desire to reform the Wizengamot.’ He took a deep breath. “Are you certain that
there won’t be trouble with the three staying together for a month?”
Ah! Sirius understood, finally. He shook his head. “I doubt it. They are
friends, and they’ve never had trouble being together at Hogwarts.” And there
were plenty of witches around to take Harry’s mind off his best friends’
relationship.
friends, and they’ve never had trouble being together at Hogwarts.” And there
were plenty of witches around to take Harry’s mind off his best friends’
relationship.
Arthur nodded, but didn’t look completely convinced.
“So, do you think Amelia can push those concessions through?” Sirius asked.
Arthur rubbed his chin, then fiddled with a muggle pen. “Amelia? I doubt it.
But Thicknesse can probably achieve it. He’s been cultivating his contacts in
the Wizengamot, and as far as I know, he’s trying to keep his options open in
case the Wizengamot surrenders.”
But Thicknesse can probably achieve it. He’s been cultivating his contacts in
the Wizengamot, and as far as I know, he’s trying to keep his options open in
case the Wizengamot surrenders.”
“Smart of him.” Sirius still wouldn’t trust the man. He was a typical
Slytherin.
Slytherin.
“And Dawlish is doing all he can to avoid any conflict between the Aurors and
the muggleborns.”
the muggleborns.”
“I’ve heard that as well.” Sirius grinned. “It looks like the rats are getting
ready to jump ship.”
ready to jump ship.”
“Yes. But they won’t take sides until they are certain who’s winning.”
“Well… then we just have to make sure that they are certain.” Sirius grinned
widely.
widely.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 1st, 1997**
“Stay a moment, Pius,” Amelia Bones said after Black had left her office.
“Of course.” He nodded, and moved in front of her desk.
She stared at him without saying anything, but his polite expression didn’t
waver. “What is your game?” she finally said.
waver. “What is your game?” she finally said.
To his credit, he neither flinched nor tried to act surprised.
“We need Black’s support, and we need the muggleborns to be at least neutral,”
he said.
he said.
“Not at any cost!” she spat. “They don’t want foreigners meddling in Britain
either!”
either!”
“Black has less to lose. He has Potter, he has the Resistance, and he has half
the Ministry and more than a third of the Wizengamot in his pocket. He can
afford to make the Ministry look weak since the delegation will still be
impressed by any show of force he can put up.” Pius shook his head. “I don’t
like it either, but we’re in the weaker position.”
the Ministry and more than a third of the Wizengamot in his pocket. He can
afford to make the Ministry look weak since the delegation will still be
impressed by any show of force he can put up.” Pius shook his head. “I don’t
like it either, but we’re in the weaker position.”
“He’s bluffing! If Potter was as powerful as the Dark Lord, Black would have
used that already to take over the Ministry,” Amelia said. “You heard how
evasive he was.”
used that already to take over the Ministry,” Amelia said. “You heard how
evasive he was.”
“He might be bluffing — we don’t know for certain. And the ICW is unlikely to
call his bluff.” Pius sighed. “Potter did defeat the Dark Lord. That is
certain.”
call his bluff.” Pius sighed. “Potter did defeat the Dark Lord. That is
certain.”
“He was just Dumbledore’s tool!” Amelia had seen Potter right after the battle
in Diagon Alley. That hadn’t been the equal of the Dark Lord, but a kid.
in Diagon Alley. That hadn’t been the equal of the Dark Lord, but a kid.
“Perhaps. But who can tell if he hasn’t retained whatever power or means
allowed him to defeat the Dark Lord?” Pius shook his head. ‘And even if we
could safely discount Potter, that still leaves the Resistance and the
muggleborns on the street.’ He placed his hands on her desk and leaned towards
her. “We can’t take them. Not in our current state. Dawlish knows it, and you
know it as well.”
allowed him to defeat the Dark Lord?” Pius shook his head. ‘And even if we
could safely discount Potter, that still leaves the Resistance and the
muggleborns on the street.’ He placed his hands on her desk and leaned towards
her. “We can’t take them. Not in our current state. Dawlish knows it, and you
know it as well.”
Was Dawlish on Pius’s side as well? Ready to betray the Ministry? How deep did
the rot go? She met his eyes. “We don’t determine the Wizengamot’s policies.
We enforce them.”
the rot go? She met his eyes. “We don’t determine the Wizengamot’s policies.
We enforce them.”
“The Wizengamot depends on the Ministry. Without our support, they are
nothing.”
nothing.”
“That’s coming close to treason.”
“It’s the truth, not treason. If the Wizengamot wants to wage war, half the
Ministry will refuse orders and either hide or join the muggleborns. And the
other half won’t last long against those odds.” He shook his head. “You have
to face reality, Amelia: We are in no shape to win this conflict.”
Ministry will refuse orders and either hide or join the muggleborns. And the
other half won’t last long against those odds.” He shook his head. “You have
to face reality, Amelia: We are in no shape to win this conflict.”
“They’re weakened as well, and we’re rebuilding.”
“So are they. The muggleborns are recruiting and Black and Weasley are busy
suborning the Ministry and the Wizengamot.”
suborning the Ministry and the Wizengamot.”
“And you’re helping them!”
“I’m trying to save the Ministry from being destroyed in a war we cannot win.
If that means making compromises and concessions, then so be it.”
If that means making compromises and concessions, then so be it.”
“You’re trying to save your career.”
He shrugged. “I’m not about to sacrifice myself for fools who try to ignore
reality.”
reality.”
She knew he included her as well in that description and snarled at him. “The
law is not something that can be bent and broken for your convenience. It’s
the foundation of our country. If we choose which laws to enforce, and how, we
might as well not have any.”
law is not something that can be bent and broken for your convenience. It’s
the foundation of our country. If we choose which laws to enforce, and how, we
might as well not have any.”
“If we don’t adapt, we’ll be swept away — including our laws. Which would
render the whole point of enforcing them moot.”
render the whole point of enforcing them moot.”
She shook her head. “You should be on the Wizengamot with that view, not in
the Ministry.”
the Ministry.”
“My family’s not old enough for that,” he said, smiling faintly.
“Is that the reason for your insubordination? Do you hope to become a member
of the Wizengamot as a reward?” She leaned forward. “Was that your price? Or
do you intend to become the next Minister?”
of the Wizengamot as a reward?” She leaned forward. “Was that your price? Or
do you intend to become the next Minister?”
“I intend to survive this conflict, unlike so many others.”
He was lying through his teeth. She knew it. “Get out!”
He left, and she fell back into her seat and closed her eyes. Merlin, where
had things gone so wrong? Pius a traitor, Dawlish in cahoots with him, or with
Weasley… the Wizengamot split, and the Ministry suborned. Everything she had
fought so hard to protect was being swept away by greed and opportunism. And
everyone she had counted on was betraying her, or dead.
had things gone so wrong? Pius a traitor, Dawlish in cahoots with him, or with
Weasley… the Wizengamot split, and the Ministry suborned. Everything she had
fought so hard to protect was being swept away by greed and opportunism. And
everyone she had counted on was betraying her, or dead.
She stared at the message on her desk. It wasn’t the original, of course —
only a fool would touch a missive from a Death Eater — but a transcription. An
offer, from Augustus Rookwood.
only a fool would touch a missive from a Death Eater — but a transcription. An
offer, from Augustus Rookwood.
---
**London, Newham, March 1st, 1997**
“Hello, Tim.” Hermione Granger smiled at the young man sitting down across
from her. The small pub they were in — one chosen at random — didn’t have that
many guests yet, not that early on a Saturday. It wasn’t quite perfect for a
recruitment meeting, but it’d do.
from her. The small pub they were in — one chosen at random — didn’t have that
many guests yet, not that early on a Saturday. It wasn’t quite perfect for a
recruitment meeting, but it’d do.
“Hello,” Timothy Meyers, muggleborn Gryffindor, graduated in 1991, said. “I
usually tell people to call me Tim, but you already did.”
usually tell people to call me Tim, but you already did.”
“Tania remembered you,” Hermione answered the implied question. “You were the
prefect who introduced her to Hogwarts.”
prefect who introduced her to Hogwarts.”
“Ah!” He smiled. “I forgot how young you all are.”
She had expected such a remark, and let her smile slip a little. “We’ve been
through so much, we tend to forget it as well.”
through so much, we tend to forget it as well.”
He nodded, acknowledging the point. Or at least acting like he did.
“Why are you here?” She watched his reaction. He seemed confused by the
question for a moment.
question for a moment.
“To join the Resistance,” he said.
“And why do you want to join us?” She leaned forward, her arms folded with her
elbows resting on the table.
elbows resting on the table.
“Because you’re the ones who beat the Ministry and the Death Eaters!”
She hid her frown. “Do you want to fight?”
He hesitated for just an instant, licking his lips. That could be a good sign.
“I don’t want to hide again, if things turn out badly.”
“I don’t want to hide again, if things turn out badly.”
He either wasn’t bent on revenge, or was smart enough to hide it. She couldn’t
tell either way. Justin… or Allan? She couldn’t tell. But she hoped to find
out at the training camp. People had trouble keeping up a facade when pushed
to their limits. She made a mark on her pad. “Can you fight?”
tell either way. Justin… or Allan? She couldn’t tell. But she hoped to find
out at the training camp. People had trouble keeping up a facade when pushed
to their limits. She made a mark on her pad. “Can you fight?”
“I got an E in my Defence N.E.W.T.,” he replied, somewhat defensively.
“That doesn’t mean that much, given how much time has passed since then.” He
hadn’t been an Auror or Hit-Wizard, but a clerk.
hadn’t been an Auror or Hit-Wizard, but a clerk.
“I’ve been training since I went into hiding.” He had completely lost his
slightly patronising attitude by now. “Just normal spells, though.”
slightly patronising attitude by now. “Just normal spells, though.”
“Normal spells?” She narrowed her eyes slightly.
Tim shrugged, the action a bit too staged to be honest. “Stunner, Shield
Charm, Reductor Curse… no dark curses. No Unforgivables.”
Charm, Reductor Curse… no dark curses. No Unforgivables.”
“We’re not using the Unforgivables,” she said.
“Oh.” He bit his lip.
“The tactical advantages do not justify the strategic disadvantages their use
would cause,” she explained.
would cause,” she explained.
“I see.” He nodded.
She hoped he did. The last thing they needed was another wizard who thought
you had to be as ruthless and brutal as possible in a civil war. “We’ll be
training a lot. Military weapons and tactics. Boot camp,” she added, with a
grin as close to the Sergeant’s as she could manage.
you had to be as ruthless and brutal as possible in a civil war. “We’ll be
training a lot. Military weapons and tactics. Boot camp,” she added, with a
grin as close to the Sergeant’s as she could manage.
His own smile was looking a bit forced by now.
“You’ll be expected to comply with the Geneva Conventions.” At least the core
parts, Hermione amended in her mind.
parts, Hermione amended in her mind.
“I’ll have to read up on them.” Tim smiled rather weakly.
“Here is a summary of the rules we adhere to.” She handed him a sheet of
paper. “Also, we’re not a democracy. We don’t hold votes during a battle. If
your leader gives an order, you’ll be expected to obey.”
paper. “Also, we’re not a democracy. We don’t hold votes during a battle. If
your leader gives an order, you’ll be expected to obey.”
He nodded. “Of course.”
“That doesn’t mean you’re expected to blindly obey.” An imperiused leader — or
an Allan, she added — could do far too much damage otherwise.
an Allan, she added — could do far too much damage otherwise.
Tim nodded again.
“Good.” Hermione considered the man across from her for a moment. “I think
you’ll do. Drink up.” She checked her watch. If the next interview went as
quickly, they could sign the contract early this evening.
you’ll do. Drink up.” She checked her watch. If the next interview went as
quickly, they could sign the contract early this evening.
---
**Hogwarts, March 1st, 1997**
“Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy Birthday to you! Happy
Birthday to y…”
Birthday to y…”
“Finite!” Ron Weasley spat while he flicked his wand. The enchanted snitch,
caught by a spell, finally stopped its loud shouting and fell down to the
ground, barely missing the bowl of punch on the table in the back of the
Gryffindor common room. He shook his head. Trust the twins to manage to prank
him even when they were no longer at Hogwarts themselves! At least it hadn’t
been too embarrassing. And if they could take the time to prank him, they were
doing well, which was a good thing.
caught by a spell, finally stopped its loud shouting and fell down to the
ground, barely missing the bowl of punch on the table in the back of the
Gryffindor common room. He shook his head. Trust the twins to manage to prank
him even when they were no longer at Hogwarts themselves! At least it hadn’t
been too embarrassing. And if they could take the time to prank him, they were
doing well, which was a good thing.
“Moody would say you deserved that for being careless,” Harry said, handing
him a wrapped package.
him a wrapped package.
“I wasn’t careless; the twins were just too sneaky. Transfiguring the snitch
into wrapping paper, counting on me to dispel it…” Ron eyed the gift.
into wrapping paper, counting on me to dispel it…” Ron eyed the gift.
“As I said, too careless for Moody.” Harry grinned. “Open it! It’s safe!”
“It’s from you and Sirius,” Ron said. ‘That’s not really safe.’ He tore the
wrapping paper away and opened it anyway — another prank wouldn’t hurt him.
Then he stared, openmouthed. “A Firebolt?” he managed to say, looking at
Harry, as he pulled it out of the enchanted box.
wrapping paper away and opened it anyway — another prank wouldn’t hurt him.
Then he stared, openmouthed. “A Firebolt?” he managed to say, looking at
Harry, as he pulled it out of the enchanted box.
His friend looked almost embarrassed while the rest of the Gryffindors
cheered. “Sirius said that you should have the best broom on the market, just
in case.” He shrugged. “I know you might have wanted a Keeper’s broom, but…”
cheered. “Sirius said that you should have the best broom on the market, just
in case.” He shrugged. “I know you might have wanted a Keeper’s broom, but…”
Ron shook his head, interrupting him. “No, no. A Firebolt is more useful. And
I can play Keeper with it as well. It’s still better than most brooms.”
I can play Keeper with it as well. It’s still better than most brooms.”
“But if you want to go pro…”
“I doubt I will,” Ron said. “It… doesn’t seem to be that important, any more,
you know.”
you know.”
“What?” Ginny sounded almost shocked. She wasn’t the only one, Ron noticed.
“But you’re an excellent Keeper!” his sister said, loud enough to be heard
over the murmurs filling the room.
“But you’re an excellent Keeper!” his sister said, loud enough to be heard
over the murmurs filling the room.
“Not as good as Wood,” Ron said reflexively. That summed up his Quidditch
career so far.
career so far.
“No one is as good as Ollie,” Harry said. “But I know what you mean.”
He would, Ron thought. They had lived through the war together, after all.
Ginny, though, was looking from him to Harry and back, before pouting. He was
about to ask her what was wrong, maybe tease her a bit — she was the one who
had helped the twins prank him, he was certain — but right then the door
nearby started open, and he flicked his wand up in response while Harry took a
step to the side, his own wand in hand. It was probably McGonagall, here to
check up on them. They still hadn’t picked a new Head of House.
Ginny, though, was looking from him to Harry and back, before pouting. He was
about to ask her what was wrong, maybe tease her a bit — she was the one who
had helped the twins prank him, he was certain — but right then the door
nearby started open, and he flicked his wand up in response while Harry took a
step to the side, his own wand in hand. It was probably McGonagall, here to
check up on them. They still hadn’t picked a new Head of House.
It wasn’t McGonagall, or any other teacher. It was Hermione, clad in jeans,
sweater and a short jacket. Ron blinked and lowered his wand while she looked
around, a faint, almost shy, smile on her face for the few seconds until she
spotted him. Then he was hugging her, and kissing her.
sweater and a short jacket. Ron blinked and lowered his wand while she looked
around, a faint, almost shy, smile on her face for the few seconds until she
spotted him. Then he was hugging her, and kissing her.
“What are you doing here?” he asked when they broke the kiss. It was a stupid
question, he realised as soon as he had spoken.
question, he realised as soon as he had spoken.
She didn’t laugh. “You told me about the party, remember?”
He did. And he remembered saying that he’d rather spend the evening with her.
“You said you’d be busy when I proposed skipping the party.”
“You said you’d be busy when I proposed skipping the party.”
She grinned. “I also said it wouldn’t be fair to your friends at Hogwarts to
ditch them. Happy birthday!” she whispered, handing him a gift.
ditch them. Happy birthday!” she whispered, handing him a gift.
“Thanks. Did you plan this?”
She shook her head, then brushed back a lock of hair that had fallen into her
face. “Not exactly. I finished earlier than I had planned.”
face. “Not exactly. I finished earlier than I had planned.”
“Well, I’m happy you’re here.”
Her smile grew wider. He lifted his hand to cup her cheek when he noticed that
Harry and Ginny were standing next to them. And that the rest of the room was
right behind them.
Harry and Ginny were standing next to them. And that the rest of the room was
right behind them.
---
Sitting in an armchair in the corner of the common room, Harry Potter watched
his two best friends dancing in the middle of the room, next to a few other
couples. They looked happy. They were happy, he corrected himself. And he was
happy for them. Mostly. It still hurt a bit, seeing them so close. Seeing her
with his friend, and not with him.
his two best friends dancing in the middle of the room, next to a few other
couples. They looked happy. They were happy, he corrected himself. And he was
happy for them. Mostly. It still hurt a bit, seeing them so close. Seeing her
with his friend, and not with him.
He summoned another butterbeer from the now quite plundered drinks table and
frowned. He should be happy for his friends, not jealous. Hermione had made
her choice. There were other witches, as Sirius had said to him numerous
times. Well, Sirius had also said to him that teenage relationships might not
last forever.
frowned. He should be happy for his friends, not jealous. Hermione had made
her choice. There were other witches, as Sirius had said to him numerous
times. Well, Sirius had also said to him that teenage relationships might not
last forever.
He shook his head and opened the bottle. He didn’t want to dwell on that. He
was better than that. Or he should be.
was better than that. Or he should be.
“Hey!” Ginny sat down, or rather, threw herself in the seat next to him.
He nodded at her, glad for the distraction. “Hey. Nice party.” Merlin, he
sounded lame.
sounded lame.
She didn’t seem to notice, though, and simply nodded in agreement. “Yes.”
After a pause, she went on. “Did you see how quickly the chocolate cake
disappeared? It was one of Mum’s.”
After a pause, she went on. “Did you see how quickly the chocolate cake
disappeared? It was one of Mum’s.”
That explained the second cake the house elves had brought up, he thought. He
had at first assumed there had been a mistake, but the little creatures were
quite territorial.
had at first assumed there had been a mistake, but the little creatures were
quite territorial.
“I’m glad Hermione made it. I think Ron would have moped, or even snuck out
otherwise.” Ginny was looking at the couple, Harry noticed. Or in their
direction.
otherwise.” Ginny was looking at the couple, Harry noticed. Or in their
direction.
“Yes,” he said. “I would have expected him to sneak out to test his new
broom.”
broom.”
She snorted. “That’s love for you. Even Quidditch takes a backseat.” Then she
winced and looked at him.
winced and looked at him.
He didn’t react to her words and took another sip from his bottle. “He’ll
spend tomorrow on the broom, I guess.”
spend tomorrow on the broom, I guess.”
After a moment, Ginny relaxed. “You weren’t surprised when Ron said he didn’t
want to go pro any more.”
want to go pro any more.”
Harry nodded. “I didn’t know that, but I understand him.”
“You’re not going pro either, are you?” She narrowed her eyes at him.
“No, I don’t think so.”
“It’s the war, right?” She looked very serious, even anxious.
He sighed. He didn’t really want to talk about the war. But he didn’t want to
watch Ron and Hermione kiss, either. “More or less, yes.”
watch Ron and Hermione kiss, either. “More or less, yes.”
“What…” She trailed off, biting her lower lip. Not like Hermione, just a quick
nibble. “What do you want to do instead?”
nibble. “What do you want to do instead?”
He shrugged. “I don’t know yet. It depends on how things go at the Ministry.”
He didn’t really have any concrete plans for the time after the Wizengamot had
been reformed. But that would take quite some time anyway, even if everything
went perfectly. Which wouldn’t be the case.
He didn’t really have any concrete plans for the time after the Wizengamot had
been reformed. But that would take quite some time anyway, even if everything
went perfectly. Which wouldn’t be the case.
She huffed. “Like Charlie…” Shaking her head, she went on. “I’ll have to make
up for all of you then.”
up for all of you then.”
“You want to go pro?”
“Any reason I shouldn’t?” She was glaring at him.
He shouldn’t have been surprised, he realised too late — Ginny was a very good
flyer. “No, no!” he quickly said. “I just… you never mentioned that.”
flyer. “No, no!” he quickly said. “I just… you never mentioned that.”
“We never talked about our plans for the future,” she said, then blushed
slightly. “I mean, our professional futures.”
slightly. “I mean, our professional futures.”
“Yes.” They hadn’t talked that often at all, he realised. The silence between
them started to stretch again. “How’s Neville doing?” he asked.
them started to stretch again. “How’s Neville doing?” he asked.
“Brooding,” she answered. “I’ve tried to get him to loosen up some, but…” She
shrugged, frowning. “He hasn’t moved from his seat in an hour or so.” She
motioned with her head to the corner opposite them, where Neville was sitting,
alone, a bottle of what Harry thought didn’t look quite like butterbeer in his
hands.
shrugged, frowning. “He hasn’t moved from his seat in an hour or so.” She
motioned with her head to the corner opposite them, where Neville was sitting,
alone, a bottle of what Harry thought didn’t look quite like butterbeer in his
hands.
“He doesn’t look very happy,” Harry said.
“No. But then, you didn’t look that happy either.”
He turned his head back to her. She flinched slightly, then raised her chin
and stared at him. “You didn’t.”
and stared at him. “You didn’t.”
“I wasn’t.” He shrugged.
“Well, are you feeling a bit better now? Or did I fail twice today at helping
others feel better?” She pouted in an exaggerated manner.
others feel better?” She pouted in an exaggerated manner.
He chuckled at her expression, and after a moment, she joined him.
---
It was past midnight when Hermione Granger left the Gryffindor dorm with Ron.
The party was still going on, but had quieted down a lot, with most of the
younger students already in bed, and a number of the older ones having
retreated for some privacy with their boyfriend or girlfriend.
The party was still going on, but had quieted down a lot, with most of the
younger students already in bed, and a number of the older ones having
retreated for some privacy with their boyfriend or girlfriend.
Like Ron and her. Even if he didn’t know it yet — she had asked him to escort
her to the tunnel that led to Hogsmeade.
her to the tunnel that led to Hogsmeade.
“I’m happy you could come to my party,” he said, taking her hand as they
passed a hallway. “Even though you have to leave early.”
passed a hallway. “Even though you have to leave early.”
She bit her lower lip, then cleared her throat. “I don’t actually have to
leave that early.” That hadn’t sounded as smooth as she had planned.
leave that early.” That hadn’t sounded as smooth as she had planned.
Ron slowed down and looked at her, puzzled, before his eyes widened. “Oh.”
She nodded. “I just wanted some privacy.” Snogging in a dark corner in the
common room wasn’t really private.
common room wasn’t really private.
“Ah.” He smiled, then wrapped his arm around her waist. “And where should we
go?”
go?”
She wanted to go to the Prefects’ Bathroom on the fifth floor. From what she
had heard, it was a luxurious place, perfect for a rendezvous with your lover.
And it would be empty at this time. But if they went there, Hermione wasn’t
certain they’d stick to snogging. The temptation would be too great. At least
hers — she wanted more. But she’d rather do that where no prefect patrols
could stumble upon them, and where no others could track her on an enchanted
map. Not for her first time, at least.
had heard, it was a luxurious place, perfect for a rendezvous with your lover.
And it would be empty at this time. But if they went there, Hermione wasn’t
certain they’d stick to snogging. The temptation would be too great. At least
hers — she wanted more. But she’d rather do that where no prefect patrols
could stumble upon them, and where no others could track her on an enchanted
map. Not for her first time, at least.
She almost shook her head at where her thoughts had strayed. “Let’s go to an
empty classroom.” She knew that such things were traditionally done in a broom
cupboard, but she didn’t fancy hitting her elbows and knees on the walls while
groping around in a narrow space.
empty classroom.” She knew that such things were traditionally done in a broom
cupboard, but she didn’t fancy hitting her elbows and knees on the walls while
groping around in a narrow space.
He nodded, and guided her towards the closest one. A few spells later, the
door was locked, and a desk in the last row had been transfigured into a
loveseat.
door was locked, and a desk in the last row had been transfigured into a
loveseat.
When she left Hogwarts, it was closer to sunrise than midnight. And she had
come very close to giving in to temptation. Several times, despite the
somewhat lacklustre surroundings. Next time, she thought, there’d be no
resisting.
come very close to giving in to temptation. Several times, despite the
somewhat lacklustre surroundings. Next time, she thought, there’d be no
resisting.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, March 2nd, 1997**
“Hello, Tracey!” Daphne Greengrass greeted her friend in the entrance hall of
her home. “I’m glad you could come visit.”
her home. “I’m glad you could come visit.”
The witch snorted while she brushed soot off her robes with a flick of her
wand. “It’s not as if I have a full social calendar these days. And I can
stand my relatives for only so long before I get the urge to hex them.” She
sneered. “All those sycophants, acting as if they feel sorry for me. They just
want my gold.”
wand. “It’s not as if I have a full social calendar these days. And I can
stand my relatives for only so long before I get the urge to hex them.” She
sneered. “All those sycophants, acting as if they feel sorry for me. They just
want my gold.”
Daphne nodded. She knew what Tracey meant. “It’s still better than the
alternative, though.”
alternative, though.”
“Which would be? Poor and begging myself?” Tracey snorted.
“Dead.”
Tracey flinched, then scoffed. “Anything is better than that.”
Daphne opened the door to her room. “I agree.”
Once inside, she cast a privacy spell, which caused her friend’s eyebrows to
rise. “Don’t you trust your own family?”
rise. “Don’t you trust your own family?”
Daphne shrugged and sat down on her bed, cross-legged. “I’d rather be safe
than sorry.”
than sorry.”
Her friend joined her, facing her. “Words to live by. So… what secret are you
about to share with me that your sister can’t know? Do you have a suitor,
maybe?” she added in a fake joking tone.
about to share with me that your sister can’t know? Do you have a suitor,
maybe?” she added in a fake joking tone.
“No.” Daphne shook her head. “It’s about Theo.”
Tracey closed her eyes and sighed. “Damn. I won’t like this, will I?” she
asked, looking at Daphne.
asked, looking at Daphne.
“He’s a tool, and doesn’t realise it. An expendable tool. And he’ll drag us
down with him, if we’re not careful.”
down with him, if we’re not careful.”
“Tell me something new. It’s not as if I’m about to join him in his
suicide-by-Resistance plan.” Tracey scoffed.
suicide-by-Resistance plan.” Tracey scoffed.
“It won’t really matter if we help him or not; we’re linked to him, and once
he is caught, they’ll come for us,” Daphne said.
he is caught, they’ll come for us,” Daphne said.
Tracey balled her hands into fists. “I’m aware of that possibility. But what
can we do? Hide? Emigrate?”
can we do? Hide? Emigrate?”
“Report him.”
There, she had said it. Daphne watched her friend’s reactions. Tracey’s eyes
widened, she opened her mouth, then closed it again, and drew a hissing breath
through clenched teeth. “That won’t go over well with the other families,” she
finally said.
widened, she opened her mouth, then closed it again, and drew a hissing breath
through clenched teeth. “That won’t go over well with the other families,” she
finally said.
“They’re not exactly lining up to visit us, are they? They avoid us already.”
Daphne sneered. “We won’t lose anything on that front.”
Daphne sneered. “We won’t lose anything on that front.”
“True. But going to the Ministry? Someone will warn Theo.” Tracey looked
doubtful.
doubtful.
Daphne shook her head. There were too many spies inside the Ministry, both for
the Dark Lord, and for the mudbloods. “No. I was thinking of Dumbledore’s
Order.”
the Dark Lord, and for the mudbloods. “No. I was thinking of Dumbledore’s
Order.”
Tracey gaped at her, but it didn’t take her friend long to realise what Daphne
was proposing. And even less time to agree.
was proposing. And even less time to agree.
---
**Atlantic Ocean, March 3rd, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood flicked the wireless receiver off. So, the ICW was making
its move. He stood up and started to pace — even with the help of Extension
Charms, the cabin he had secured for himself on this muggle ship was small,
and staying inside so he didn’t have to keep obliviating the muggles who saw
him was proving to be a bit more stressful than he had anticipated. He hadn’t
fully recovered from his ordeal in Azkaban, he had realised.
its move. He stood up and started to pace — even with the help of Extension
Charms, the cabin he had secured for himself on this muggle ship was small,
and staying inside so he didn’t have to keep obliviating the muggles who saw
him was proving to be a bit more stressful than he had anticipated. He hadn’t
fully recovered from his ordeal in Azkaban, he had realised.
Fortunately, this news proved to be a good distraction. How could he best use
this development for his own goals? He had left a couple of tools under the
Imperius back in Britain which he would be able to order around with a simple
message, so he had a number of options. But this would require careful
planning. If the Ministry collapsed and the ICW moved in, he’d lose all his
leverage — foreigners wouldn’t care about the victims of the Withering Curse.
this development for his own goals? He had left a couple of tools under the
Imperius back in Britain which he would be able to order around with a simple
message, so he had a number of options. But this would require careful
planning. If the Ministry collapsed and the ICW moved in, he’d lose all his
leverage — foreigners wouldn’t care about the victims of the Withering Curse.
On the other hand, this might be an opportunity to find out how the
Boy-Who-Lived had defeated the Dark Lord. Augustus still had no idea how
Dumbledore had managed to orchestrate that, despite all the precautions the
Dark Lord had taken. And as long as he didn’t know what had happened he
couldn’t defend himself against it either.
Boy-Who-Lived had defeated the Dark Lord. Augustus still had no idea how
Dumbledore had managed to orchestrate that, despite all the precautions the
Dark Lord had taken. And as long as he didn’t know what had happened he
couldn’t defend himself against it either.
A quite intolerable situation.
Chapter 49: Resolutions
=======================
I’d like to thank fredfred and brianna-xox for betaing. Their help has
improved the story a lot.
improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 49: Resolutions**
’*The Second Blood War is often cited as a defining moment for muggleborns in
Wizarding Britain, giving them the impetus to organise and militarise as a
group. However, most muggleborns only started to band together and prepare for
war after the Dark Lord had been defeated and the Ministry’s forces were in no
shape to credibly threaten the Order of the Phoenix and the Resistance. For
all the myth of the brave Resistance fighters facing overwhelming odds that
some of my colleagues still propagate, joining after the Battle of Diagon
Alley was a rather opportunistic move.*
Wizarding Britain, giving them the impetus to organise and militarise as a
group. However, most muggleborns only started to band together and prepare for
war after the Dark Lord had been defeated and the Ministry’s forces were in no
shape to credibly threaten the Order of the Phoenix and the Resistance. For
all the myth of the brave Resistance fighters facing overwhelming odds that
some of my colleagues still propagate, joining after the Battle of Diagon
Alley was a rather opportunistic move.*
*But even among purebloods there were also a fair number of opportunists who
abandoned their ideals once the numbers no longer favoured them — even among
the Old Families. That the Second Blood War left Britain with only so-called
‘blood traitors’ and muggleborns is not quite the hyperbole one might think.’*
abandoned their ideals once the numbers no longer favoured them — even among
the Old Families. That the Second Blood War left Britain with only so-called
‘blood traitors’ and muggleborns is not quite the hyperbole one might think.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**Hogwarts, March 4th, 1997**
Sitting on his bed, Harry Potter stared at the wand in his hand. The Elder
Wand. It wasn’t his wand, and yet it felt like it. Warm. Almost eager, even,
as much as a wand could be eager. And using it felt… he took a deep breath. He
knew the legends about the Deathly Hallows. About the Elder Wand, in
particular. How it changed hands through violence and death. To wield the wand
was to court death, as one sage had put it. Harry wouldn’t go that far — but
casting spells with it felt a bit like cheating. Too easy by far. It was a
tool that he shouldn’t use outside of emergencies, if he didn’t want to grow
dependent on it.
Wand. It wasn’t his wand, and yet it felt like it. Warm. Almost eager, even,
as much as a wand could be eager. And using it felt… he took a deep breath. He
knew the legends about the Deathly Hallows. About the Elder Wand, in
particular. How it changed hands through violence and death. To wield the wand
was to court death, as one sage had put it. Harry wouldn’t go that far — but
casting spells with it felt a bit like cheating. Too easy by far. It was a
tool that he shouldn’t use outside of emergencies, if he didn’t want to grow
dependent on it.
But what if he used it for training, to learn new spells more easily, and then
used his own, real, wand to train with them? Wouldn’t that be a safe way to
wield the wand? He took a deep breath and shook his head, then threw the wand
on his bed. Was it influencing his thoughts? Or was that just his imagination
and insecurities talking?
used his own, real, wand to train with them? Wouldn’t that be a safe way to
wield the wand? He took a deep breath and shook his head, then threw the wand
on his bed. Was it influencing his thoughts? Or was that just his imagination
and insecurities talking?
Sirius had warned him about showing off the wand. If the news that that he
owned the Elder Wand got out, far too many wizards and witches would try to
take it from him — by any means possible. And that wouldn’t help with the
current crisis: the ICW inspection. Or the spies, as Sirius called them.
owned the Elder Wand got out, far too many wizards and witches would try to
take it from him — by any means possible. And that wouldn’t help with the
current crisis: the ICW inspection. Or the spies, as Sirius called them.
Harry clenched his teeth. He didn’t like having to put on an act, but casting
a Patronus Charm to impress their ‘visitors’ was a small price to pay if it
served to make the other countries — countries ruled by purebloods who did not
hold muggleborns in high regard — back off. Even if the whole act reminded him
of the Tournament.
a Patronus Charm to impress their ‘visitors’ was a small price to pay if it
served to make the other countries — countries ruled by purebloods who did not
hold muggleborns in high regard — back off. Even if the whole act reminded him
of the Tournament.
At least his corporeal Patronus should impress them — it certainly had made an
impression on dozens of Dementors, three years ago, and he had improved since
then. And, he added, with a glance to the wand lying on his bed, there were
ways to make it even more impressive…
impression on dozens of Dementors, three years ago, and he had improved since
then. And, he added, with a glance to the wand lying on his bed, there were
ways to make it even more impressive…
Once again he shook his head. The wand was known as Dumbledore’s wand. If he
used it in public, rumours would start, some of them quite close to the truth.
Sighing, he turned and sank on to his bed, the impact of his back making the
Elder Wand bounce a little. How had Dumbledore managed this?
used it in public, rumours would start, some of them quite close to the truth.
Sighing, he turned and sank on to his bed, the impact of his back making the
Elder Wand bounce a little. How had Dumbledore managed this?
He snorted. Maybe he should destroy the wand. Then he wouldn’t be tempted to
use it recklessly any more. But then he wouldn’t be able to use it to save his
friends either.
use it recklessly any more. But then he wouldn’t be able to use it to save his
friends either.
And that was a price far too high for his peace of mind. He looked at the
clock on the wall. Almost time for dinner. Sighing, he sat up and grabbed the
Elder Wand, slipping it into his enchanted pocket, before heading downstairs.
clock on the wall. Almost time for dinner. Sighing, he sat up and grabbed the
Elder Wand, slipping it into his enchanted pocket, before heading downstairs.
---
“Hey, Harry!”
Harry stopped on the way to the portrait hole out of the Gryffindor common
room when he heard Neville call out to him from the corner opposite the
entrance. “Yes?”
room when he heard Neville call out to him from the corner opposite the
entrance. “Yes?”
“Do you have a moment?” The other wizard made a gesture with his hand towards
the seat next to him.
the seat next to him.
For a moment, he hesitated. He wasn’t really in the mood to talk with Neville
about training sessions. His friend had grown worse than Wood had been about
Quidditch. On the other hand, he understood why Neville was so set on this,
and Harry would probably not do anything differently in his place. “Sure.” He
walked over while Neville cast a privacy spell, and sat down.
about training sessions. His friend had grown worse than Wood had been about
Quidditch. On the other hand, he understood why Neville was so set on this,
and Harry would probably not do anything differently in his place. “Sure.” He
walked over while Neville cast a privacy spell, and sat down.
Neville pointed at a sheet of parchment on the low table between their seats.
“I’ve been going over the list.”
“I’ve been going over the list.”
“The list?” Harry picked it up. There were dozens of names on it, many of them
crossed out. But a large number were still legible. What… “Ah.” He recognised
it. The list of Death Eaters and their supporters the Resistance had
distributed a few months ago.
crossed out. But a large number were still legible. What… “Ah.” He recognised
it. The list of Death Eaters and their supporters the Resistance had
distributed a few months ago.
“Yes. I was thinking…” Neville paused, then took a deep breath. ‘I was
thinking that there are too many of those people still around. Free, I mean,’
he added. “If they haven’t fled Britain, then they’re in hiding. But I doubt
that they have cut off contact with their families.”
thinking that there are too many of those people still around. Free, I mean,’
he added. “If they haven’t fled Britain, then they’re in hiding. But I doubt
that they have cut off contact with their families.”
Harry nodded. Neville was a member of an Old Family; he would know that better
than Harry himself. And Sirius had mentioned tracking the Death Eaters through
their less incriminated family members — though it hadn’t worked out that
well.
than Harry himself. And Sirius had mentioned tracking the Death Eaters through
their less incriminated family members — though it hadn’t worked out that
well.
“So… Easter vacation is coming up at the end of the month. I was thinking we
could be doing something about this.” Neville pointed at the list in Harry’s
hand.
could be doing something about this.” Neville pointed at the list in Harry’s
hand.
Harry licked his lips, glancing at Neville. His friend looked eager, but also
nervous. Fidgeting in his seat.
nervous. Fidgeting in his seat.
“What do you think?” Neville asked, looking as if he was pleading. It was
quite a change compared to his attitude during training. It made him look more
like he had been before the war, Harry thought.
quite a change compared to his attitude during training. It made him look more
like he had been before the war, Harry thought.
Easter vacation would fall right in the middle of the training with the
Resistance, Harry knew. He wouldn’t be able to help Neville with that, even if
he wanted to — and he wasn’t certain he did. Neither did he want to let his
friend down, though. And if they were working together, then Harry would be
able to prevent Neville from doing something they would all regret… He nodded.
“I’m not certain that I can help you — there are things coming up I need to do
— but I’ll put you in touch with others who have some experience with this.”
Sirius, and the twins.
Resistance, Harry knew. He wouldn’t be able to help Neville with that, even if
he wanted to — and he wasn’t certain he did. Neither did he want to let his
friend down, though. And if they were working together, then Harry would be
able to prevent Neville from doing something they would all regret… He nodded.
“I’m not certain that I can help you — there are things coming up I need to do
— but I’ll put you in touch with others who have some experience with this.”
Sirius, and the twins.
Neville smiled. “Thank you, Harry.”
“No problem,” Harry said, getting up. Despite his own smile, though, he felt
guilty.
guilty.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 4th, 1997**
Amelia Bones stared at the crater left in the middle of the Alley. It wasn’t
much to look at — barely deeper than the height of the cobblestones they had
blown away. “Report!” she snapped at the closest Auror — a witch who looked as
if she was barely out of Hogwarts.
much to look at — barely deeper than the height of the cobblestones they had
blown away. “Report!” she snapped at the closest Auror — a witch who looked as
if she was barely out of Hogwarts.
“Ah!” The witch straightened up, almost coming to attention. “At half past six
explosions were heard from this area, and the patrol on duty responded. By the
time they arrived on scene, the perpetrators had already fled, and the wounded
were being cared for by bystanders. From the witnesses available, we have
concluded that the attackers were on brooms.”
explosions were heard from this area, and the patrol on duty responded. By the
time they arrived on scene, the perpetrators had already fled, and the wounded
were being cared for by bystanders. From the witnesses available, we have
concluded that the attackers were on brooms.”
Amelia nodded, forcing herself to smile at the Auror. For such a hasty
deployment, it was a decent report. Especially in an area taken over by
muggleborns. They wouldn’t be too cooperative with the Aurors, to say the
least. “How many wounded?”
deployment, it was a decent report. Especially in an area taken over by
muggleborns. They wouldn’t be too cooperative with the Aurors, to say the
least. “How many wounded?”
“That is unclear… we’re awaiting a notice from St Mungo’s, Ma’am.” Now the
Auror sounded uncertain, nervous. “There were no fatalities as far as we can
tell.”
Auror sounded uncertain, nervous. “There were no fatalities as far as we can
tell.”
Amelia nodded, then pointed her wand at the nearest crater and cast a few
detection spells. “No spell residue… this wasn’t a curse,” she said, more to
herself than anyone else. A few more spells. “Traces of explosive fluid.”
detection spells. “No spell residue… this wasn’t a curse,” she said, more to
herself than anyone else. A few more spells. “Traces of explosive fluid.”
“Like the attack on the rally, Ma’am?”
Amelia turned to the Auror, who was still standing at near-attention. So, she
was paying attention, although Amelia couldn’t tell if the witch was still
keeping an eye on her surroundings. “There is a possible link.” Same means,
same targets. Same lackadaisical execution. But there was one difference. “The
attack on the rally was done by imperiused victims. They didn’t try to get
away. This, though…” She looked up at the angled roofs overhead. “They cared
more for getting away than hitting their targets. That doesn’t match. Analyse
the fluid remains, and compare it to the samples taken from the rally.”
was paying attention, although Amelia couldn’t tell if the witch was still
keeping an eye on her surroundings. “There is a possible link.” Same means,
same targets. Same lackadaisical execution. But there was one difference. “The
attack on the rally was done by imperiused victims. They didn’t try to get
away. This, though…” She looked up at the angled roofs overhead. “They cared
more for getting away than hitting their targets. That doesn’t match. Analyse
the fluid remains, and compare it to the samples taken from the rally.”
“Yes, Ma’am!” The Auror saluted, and Amelia chuckled. “Relax a little. We’re
in the field.”
in the field.”
The young witch nodded, with a smile. “Yes, Ma’am!”
Amelia stepped around the crater and looked around. There had been multiple
explosions, but there was only the one crater. Which meant that the other
bottles had hit the roofs. She couldn’t spot any damage, though — it looked
like the wards had held. Rubbing her chin, she pondered the issue.
explosions, but there was only the one crater. Which meant that the other
bottles had hit the roofs. She couldn’t spot any damage, though — it looked
like the wards had held. Rubbing her chin, she pondered the issue.
After the early bomb attacks by the Resistance, all house-owners who could
afford it had strengthened their wards. It wouldn’t have stopped the
Resistance — it hadn’t stopped them, as their following actions had proven —
but it had been enough to foil this attack. Lackadaisical indeed. It might
have been a pureblood lashing out at muggleborns without much of a plan, just
copying what had been done before. Or it could have been someone smarter,
faking it. Maybe…
afford it had strengthened their wards. It wouldn’t have stopped the
Resistance — it hadn’t stopped them, as their following actions had proven —
but it had been enough to foil this attack. Lackadaisical indeed. It might
have been a pureblood lashing out at muggleborns without much of a plan, just
copying what had been done before. Or it could have been someone smarter,
faking it. Maybe…
“Minister? Should you be at the scene of the crime?” Dawlish’s voice
interrupted her thoughts, and she was frowning when she turned around to face
the Head Auror.
interrupted her thoughts, and she was frowning when she turned around to face
the Head Auror.
“Is there any reason I shouldn’t be?” She stared at him, daring him to
contradict her.
contradict her.
He didn’t cave. “There is your safety to consider.”
“I trust the Aurors securing the scene.” Her tone implied that he might not
trust them. Judging by his expression, he had realised that as well. And so
had the Aurors nearby.
trust them. Judging by his expression, he had realised that as well. And so
had the Aurors nearby.
He schooled his features quickly, though, and nodded curtly. “Of course,
Minister.”
Minister.”
She was tempted to take over the investigation. Show up Dawlish and cut out
Pius at the same time. It wouldn’t have been the first time a Minister had
done such a thing. And she certainly would do a better job than anyone else.
Pius at the same time. It wouldn’t have been the first time a Minister had
done such a thing. And she certainly would do a better job than anyone else.
But she was better than that. And she had hated it when Cornelius had tried to
meddle in her department. So she nodded, and left. At least the Aurors would
know she could be counted upon. She had a feeling that she could use any
allies, no matter how low they were placed in the Ministry.
meddle in her department. So she nodded, and left. At least the Aurors would
know she could be counted upon. She had a feeling that she could use any
allies, no matter how low they were placed in the Ministry.
A quick apparition had her back in front of the Auror post in Diagon Alley,
and a brief trip through the Floo Network later she was back in the Ministry.
Back in the snake pit, she corrected herself, surrounded by schemers and
plotters and criminals of all kinds, and most of them untouchable due to deals
made under duress.
and a brief trip through the Floo Network later she was back in the Ministry.
Back in the snake pit, she corrected herself, surrounded by schemers and
plotters and criminals of all kinds, and most of them untouchable due to deals
made under duress.
She kept a confident but polite facade up until she was in her office, then
cursed under her breath while she sank into her seat. The stack of parchment
on her desk had grown taller in her absence, but most of it didn’t matter and
would not take much time to deal with.
cursed under her breath while she sank into her seat. The stack of parchment
on her desk had grown taller in her absence, but most of it didn’t matter and
would not take much time to deal with.
Unlike the parchment in her pocket. Rookwood’s offer. She shouldn’t even
consider it. He was a Death Eater, a wanted criminal — one of two members of
the Dark Lord’s Inner Circle still at large. She wasn’t corrupt, unlike
others. She wasn’t bending the law as she pleased. She should pass the message
on to the Unspeakables, so they could try to find him through it.
consider it. He was a Death Eater, a wanted criminal — one of two members of
the Dark Lord’s Inner Circle still at large. She wasn’t corrupt, unlike
others. She wasn’t bending the law as she pleased. She should pass the message
on to the Unspeakables, so they could try to find him through it.
Of course, as a former Unspeakable, Rookwood would have anticipated that, and
would have guarded against it. So, she wasn’t hindering the investigation or
protecting a criminal. She wasn’t doing anything illegal, or wrong. And his
offer — the cure for the Withering Curse in exchange for a pardon — wasn’t
really different from the way in which the Resistance obtained their pardons.
Britain needed help, and the price for said help was a pardon.
would have guarded against it. So, she wasn’t hindering the investigation or
protecting a criminal. She wasn’t doing anything illegal, or wrong. And his
offer — the cure for the Withering Curse in exchange for a pardon — wasn’t
really different from the way in which the Resistance obtained their pardons.
Britain needed help, and the price for said help was a pardon.
But she didn’t want to let another criminal go free just for expediency’s
sake. She ground her teeth. It was bad enough that that mass-murdering Granger
would probably be sitting on the Wizengamot in less than a week!
sake. She ground her teeth. It was bad enough that that mass-murdering Granger
would probably be sitting on the Wizengamot in less than a week!
Besides, the Unspeakables were working on finding a cure. Arthur’s department
as well, and while she didn’t expect much from his people, if she put some
pressure on him, he might get help from his friends in order to keep his
position.
as well, and while she didn’t expect much from his people, if she put some
pressure on him, he might get help from his friends in order to keep his
position.
She shook her head. No, there was no reason to make another deal with a
criminal.
criminal.
She didn’t vanish the missive, though.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 4th, 1997**
Ron Weasley sighed as he refilled his glass with some pumpkin juice in
Sirius’s kitchen. The news that there had been another attack on muggleborns
in Diagon Alley had put his family on edge, what with the twins having started
to rebuild their shop. At least, he added with a guilty feeling, Mum was
focusing on them for now. Which meant he and Harry were not being bothered yet
about Sirius’s other news. That he could expect to be awarded an Order of
Merlin, First Class. And a seat on the Wizengamot.
Sirius’s kitchen. The news that there had been another attack on muggleborns
in Diagon Alley had put his family on edge, what with the twins having started
to rebuild their shop. At least, he added with a guilty feeling, Mum was
focusing on them for now. Which meant he and Harry were not being bothered yet
about Sirius’s other news. That he could expect to be awarded an Order of
Merlin, First Class. And a seat on the Wizengamot.
Ron still didn’t know how he felt about that. It was nice, no, more than nice,
to be recognised as more than Harry’s friend. Or sidekick. An Order of Merlin.
First Class, even. None of his brothers had ever achieved that. Of course, he
had thought about that when he had heard about how Sirius had derailed that
Wizengamot session. But he had known it was just a political ploy. Now,
though, knowing that it was almost certain that there would be a majority
supporting the proposal… well, it still was a political ploy. But one that
would lead to him sitting on the Wizengamot. Right after his seventeenth
birthday. He sighed. He, Ron Weasley, sitting on the Wizengamot with an Order
of Merlin, First Class before he had even graduated from Hogwarts! He
chuckled. It made the dreams he had had in his first year of being Head Boy
and Quidditch Captain look humble.
to be recognised as more than Harry’s friend. Or sidekick. An Order of Merlin.
First Class, even. None of his brothers had ever achieved that. Of course, he
had thought about that when he had heard about how Sirius had derailed that
Wizengamot session. But he had known it was just a political ploy. Now,
though, knowing that it was almost certain that there would be a majority
supporting the proposal… well, it still was a political ploy. But one that
would lead to him sitting on the Wizengamot. Right after his seventeenth
birthday. He sighed. He, Ron Weasley, sitting on the Wizengamot with an Order
of Merlin, First Class before he had even graduated from Hogwarts! He
chuckled. It made the dreams he had had in his first year of being Head Boy
and Quidditch Captain look humble.
“Someone’s in a good mood.”
Ron whirled around, raising his wand before he recognised Harry standing in
the doorway. “Ah.”
the doorway. “Ah.”
His friend shook his head. “Must have been a really funny thought if you
didn’t notice me arriving.”
didn’t notice me arriving.”
Was there a hint of jealousy? Ron wondered. Harry hadn’t really said anything,
but maybe he thought that more had happened during Hermione’s visit to
Hogwarts than what the two had done after leaving Ron’s party. It wasn’t as if
Ron could just say ‘Hey, Hermione and I haven’t slept together’, out of the
blue. He and Harry didn’t talk about that kind of thing. Not since Hermione
had made her choice.
but maybe he thought that more had happened during Hermione’s visit to
Hogwarts than what the two had done after leaving Ron’s party. It wasn’t as if
Ron could just say ‘Hey, Hermione and I haven’t slept together’, out of the
blue. He and Harry didn’t talk about that kind of thing. Not since Hermione
had made her choice.
And they wouldn’t be talking about it this evening either. Ron shook his head.
“Just thinking about the Wizengamot and the Order of Merlin. It feels…” he
trailed off, grimacing.
“Just thinking about the Wizengamot and the Order of Merlin. It feels…” he
trailed off, grimacing.
Harry nodded. “I know what you mean.” He stepped up to the ice box and pulled
out a soft drink — a Coca-Cola, Ron noted — from the stack Sirius kept for
them. “Welcome to being famous!” he added, with a wide grin.
out a soft drink — a Coca-Cola, Ron noted — from the stack Sirius kept for
them. “Welcome to being famous!” he added, with a wide grin.
Ron scoffed. “Welcome to being a tool for politics, you mean.”
“That too.” Harry popped the can open and took a sip.
Ron emptied his own glass and refilled it. He had a feeling that there
wouldn’t be much pumpkin juice in the future for him, not while training with
the Resistance. He didn’t mind, much — muggle beverages were tasty too. He
sighed. “I just feel… you know, like a fake.”
wouldn’t be much pumpkin juice in the future for him, not while training with
the Resistance. He didn’t mind, much — muggle beverages were tasty too. He
sighed. “I just feel… you know, like a fake.”
“You risked your life and earned that Order,” Harry said.
“Others risked their lives as well.”
“Not many of them faced Voldemort himself.” Harry didn’t have to add ‘and
lived’, Ron was aware how many had died.
lived’, Ron was aware how many had died.
“Sirius and Aberforth did,” Ron said.
“And neither wants an Order of Merlin.” Harry shrugged. “I’m glad I’m not
singled out.”
singled out.”
Ron chuckled. “You would be.” He quickly grew serious again, though. “But I’m
still not looking forward to sessions. And I feel like a hypocrite, with the
Resistance demanding an elected Wizengamot, and me getting appointed.”
still not looking forward to sessions. And I feel like a hypocrite, with the
Resistance demanding an elected Wizengamot, and me getting appointed.”
“Hermione is getting appointed as well,” his friend pointed out. “And once the
reforms are done we’re off the Wizengamot anyway — unless you want to run for
a seat in the election.”
reforms are done we’re off the Wizengamot anyway — unless you want to run for
a seat in the election.”
“Yeah, right.” Ron snorted.
“Hermione will probably run for a seat,” Harry said.
“Probably.” They hadn’t talked about that, but he agreed with Harry. That was
just like Hermione. She wasn’t the type to leave others to do what she felt
she could do. At least she wouldn’t… he blinked. “Merlin’s beard! She’s so
going to make us run as well, so there’ll be two more votes for her
proposals!”
just like Hermione. She wasn’t the type to leave others to do what she felt
she could do. At least she wouldn’t… he blinked. “Merlin’s beard! She’s so
going to make us run as well, so there’ll be two more votes for her
proposals!”
Harry stared at him, then muttered something that would have earned them a
scolding from Hermione.
scolding from Hermione.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 5th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass had to struggle to control herself as she walked down Diagon
Alley. It felt as if everyone on the street was staring at her. At any moment,
she expected someone to point their wand at them and cast a curse.
Alley. It felt as if everyone on the street was staring at her. At any moment,
she expected someone to point their wand at them and cast a curse.
“We’re attracting too much attention,” Tracey, walking at her side, said. She
was whispering despite their privacy spell. “They know.”
was whispering despite their privacy spell. “They know.”
“If they knew they’d attack us,” Daphne whispered back. “We look like
muggleborns.”
muggleborns.”
At least they should look like muggleborns. They had carefully transfigured
their robes into muggle clothes, dyed their hair and even wore those weird
colored glasses. They looked like the muggle girls in the magazine that they
had bought in Buxton.
their robes into muggle clothes, dyed their hair and even wore those weird
colored glasses. They looked like the muggle girls in the magazine that they
had bought in Buxton.
“No one else is wearing the same clothes as us,” Tracey insisted.
“Of course not, that would be a gaffe,” Daphne shot back.
“Muggles mass-produce their clothes.”
Her friend was correct, Daphne had to admit — they had seen a number of people
wearing the same jackets. “Just act naturally. We’re doing fine,” she said. At
least with the recent attack, there were other people out on the street who
looked nervous as well.
wearing the same jackets. “Just act naturally. We’re doing fine,” she said. At
least with the recent attack, there were other people out on the street who
looked nervous as well.
And that reminded her that currently, she and Tracey would look like just
another pair of muggleborns to someone like Theo. She glanced at the sky above
them, and started to walk a bit faster.
another pair of muggleborns to someone like Theo. She glanced at the sky above
them, and started to walk a bit faster.
---
The Weasleys had been busy, Daphne thought. According to the Daily Prophet,
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes had been utterly destroyed by Fiendfyre in the Battle
of Diagon Alley five weeks ago. The building in front of her showed no trace
of that. It wasn’t yet finished — part of the uppermost floor and the roof
were missing — but they had already replaced the gaudy shop sign, and started
to furnish the interior.
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes had been utterly destroyed by Fiendfyre in the Battle
of Diagon Alley five weeks ago. The building in front of her showed no trace
of that. It wasn’t yet finished — part of the uppermost floor and the roof
were missing — but they had already replaced the gaudy shop sign, and started
to furnish the interior.
Next to her, Tracey hissed. “They’re here.”
Spotting a few bricks sliding into place on the upper floor, Daphne refrained
from stating that they had expected the twins to be here — that was why they
had come to Diagon Alley, after all. They didn’t know where the Weasleys were
currently living, and Daphne would rather not meet the rest of the family
anyway — not after she had almost been killed by the trap at The Burrow. She
shivered, remembering how the others had died. “Let’s go,” she said, walking
towards the door.
from stating that they had expected the twins to be here — that was why they
had come to Diagon Alley, after all. They didn’t know where the Weasleys were
currently living, and Daphne would rather not meet the rest of the family
anyway — not after she had almost been killed by the trap at The Burrow. She
shivered, remembering how the others had died. “Let’s go,” she said, walking
towards the door.
In front of the door, she hesitated for a moment. She remembered the fight
inside the shop. They were once again here in disguise. If the twins thought
this was an attack… or wanted to claim they thought so… But there was no
choice. If Theo had started to attack muggleborns, Daphne needed to do this,
or she’d perish with the fool.
inside the shop. They were once again here in disguise. If the twins thought
this was an attack… or wanted to claim they thought so… But there was no
choice. If Theo had started to attack muggleborns, Daphne needed to do this,
or she’d perish with the fool.
She took a deep breath and touched the door knocker with her wand — only to
jump back in fright when she heard a wailing scream. It sounded as if a poor
beast was being tortured inside the shop.
jump back in fright when she heard a wailing scream. It sounded as if a poor
beast was being tortured inside the shop.
“Merlin’s arse!” Tracey cursed next to her.
Daphne muttered a curse of her own when the door was opened and one of the
twins appeared. “Hello. How can I help you?” He was staying behind the
threshold, of course — and therefore behind the wards — and his right arm was
hidden behind the door — probably holding his wand.
twins appeared. “Hello. How can I help you?” He was staying behind the
threshold, of course — and therefore behind the wards — and his right arm was
hidden behind the door — probably holding his wand.
Daphne carefully stashed her wand and pulled off her glasses. “It’s us.”
He recognised her at once — his smile vanished, replaced by a hard stare, and
his wand appeared, as expected. “What do you want?”
his wand appeared, as expected. “What do you want?”
He was probably Fred, Daphne thought. George hadn’t been that hostile the last
time they had talked. Really talked. But that had been before their trial,
too. She wet her lips. “We need to talk to you.”
time they had talked. Really talked. But that had been before their trial,
too. She wet her lips. “We need to talk to you.”
His eyes narrowed. “We don’t want to talk to you.”
Daphne looked around, then said in a low voice. “It’s important. Please cast a
privacy spell.” She was quite certain that if she drew her wand, it wouldn’t
end well for her.
privacy spell.” She was quite certain that if she drew her wand, it wouldn’t
end well for her.
Probably-Fred didn’t react for a second, and Daphne feared that she had
botched it. Then he pointed his wand at her, and she flinched. Was he…
botched it. Then he pointed his wand at her, and she flinched. Was he…
The tip of his wand swung away, and she recognised the movements of a privacy
spell before she sighed with relief.
spell before she sighed with relief.
“Talk,” he spat out.
“Theo Nott plans to attack muggleborns and their friends. Someone’s backing
him. He tried to recruit us, but we declined,” she said, talking quickly.
him. He tried to recruit us, but we declined,” she said, talking quickly.
“He might have been behind yesterday’s attack in the Alley,” Tracey added.
“Aha.” Fred — she was now convinced it was him — didn’t look any friendlier.
“And why are you telling us this?”
“And why are you telling us this?”
“We don’t know who’s backing him. If they have spies in the Ministry…” Daphne
shrugged.
shrugged.
He stared at her, then at Tracey without saying anything.
“Who’s at the door? Did they deliver the shelves?” Daphne heard his brother
ask from somewhere behind Fred.
ask from somewhere behind Fred.
“Just two snakes disguised as muggleborns,” Fred yelled back without taking
his eyes off them. At least he had extended the privacy spell beforehand,
Daphne noticed with relief. She still felt terribly exposed, standing in the
street in front of the shop.
his eyes off them. At least he had extended the privacy spell beforehand,
Daphne noticed with relief. She still felt terribly exposed, standing in the
street in front of the shop.
“What?” A few seconds later, George appeared next to his brother. “Oh.”
“They claim Nott was trying to recruit them to attack muggleborns and blood
traitors,” Fred said.
traitors,” Fred said.
“It’s the truth.” Tracey crossed her arms and raised her chin slightly.
Daphne fought the urge to fidget when George looked her over. “That’s a new
look.”
look.”
“It’s a disguise,” his brother said.
“We couldn’t walk over as we are, could we?” Daphne said. “Someone would
either attack us, or warn Theo.”
either attack us, or warn Theo.”
“Or both,” Tracey added.
“It’s probably a trap,” Fred said. “Like before.”
“It’s not a trap,” Daphne insisted, shaking her head. “We’re done with the
war. We don’t want any more trouble.” She hated how desperate she sounded, but
if the twins didn’t believe them…
war. We don’t want any more trouble.” She hated how desperate she sounded, but
if the twins didn’t believe them…
“And what do you expect us to do?” George asked. “If this is true,” he added.
“To deal with Theo before he kills anyone and gets us killed by an angry mob,”
Tracey said. She was staring at the twins as if she was daring them to curse
her.
Tracey said. She was staring at the twins as if she was daring them to curse
her.
“Of course they’re worried about their own skin,” Fred said, with a sneer.
George, though, chuckled. “Well, you’re honest.” Daphne saw him glance at his
brother. “I think we should pass this on.”
brother. “I think we should pass this on.”
He had to mean the Order, Daphne knew.
“Good. Tell them that we warned you. Please,” Tracey said. She was smiling a
little.
little.
It looked like they had succeeded. Daphne started to smile.
“Come back here tomorrow, same time,” George said.
“What?” Daphne stared at him, her smile gone.
He grinned. “Someone else might want to talk to you.”
Black. It had to be Black. The twin’s backer. Daphne had considered that
possibility. It wasn’t a bad thing, actually — Black had a lot of influence.
If they could make a deal with him… But Black also had a certain reputation.
Both due to his family, and his personal history. He was not a wizard anyone
wanted to cross. She and Tracey had no choice, though — they were committed
now.
possibility. It wasn’t a bad thing, actually — Black had a lot of influence.
If they could make a deal with him… But Black also had a certain reputation.
Both due to his family, and his personal history. He was not a wizard anyone
wanted to cross. She and Tracey had no choice, though — they were committed
now.
So she nodded with a faint smile. “Alright.”
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 5th, 1997**
“So, Greengrass and Davis don’t want to fight for blood purity any more.”
Sirius Black rubbed his beard while he leaned back in his favourite armchair.
“And they’re willing to betray their friend — former friend, now, I think — to
save themselves.”
Sirius Black rubbed his beard while he leaned back in his favourite armchair.
“And they’re willing to betray their friend — former friend, now, I think — to
save themselves.”
“That’s what they claim,” Fred said.
Those girls were typical Slytherins, Sirius thought. Always thinking of
themselves. Although if that meant that the perpetrators behind the latest
attacks could be caught, then that was a good thing. If they were honest.
“What do you think?” He looked at George.
themselves. Although if that meant that the perpetrators behind the latest
attacks could be caught, then that was a good thing. If they were honest.
“What do you think?” He looked at George.
“I think they’re telling the truth,” the younger wizard said. “We know from
when we interrogated them that one reason that they joined the Dark Lord was
because they were afraid of muggleborns. Now with the Dark Lord dead and the
Ministry in shambles, there’s no one left who could offer them protection
except for us.”
when we interrogated them that one reason that they joined the Dark Lord was
because they were afraid of muggleborns. Now with the Dark Lord dead and the
Ministry in shambles, there’s no one left who could offer them protection
except for us.”
“Protect them?” Fred scoffed, waving his empty glass around. “They’re Death
Eaters! They’ll betray us as quickly as they are betraying Nott if they see an
opportunity.”
Eaters! They’ll betray us as quickly as they are betraying Nott if they see an
opportunity.”
That, too, was typical for Slytherins, Sirius thought. You couldn’t trust
them. But you could take precautions. He grinned. “Well, if Nott gets caught
thanks to them, and this becomes known, they’ll never be trusted again by the
other Death Eaters,” Sirius said. It went without saying that it would become
known. “They’d have to fear reprisals, instead.”
them. But you could take precautions. He grinned. “Well, if Nott gets caught
thanks to them, and this becomes known, they’ll never be trusted again by the
other Death Eaters,” Sirius said. It went without saying that it would become
known. “They’d have to fear reprisals, instead.”
“That’s true,” George said, glancing at his brother. “So, are you planning to
meet them?”
meet them?”
“Yes, I think so,” Sirius said. “Although not in your shop. A safe house with
good wards and a few emergency exits, just in case, would be best.” He didn’t
think the two witches were trying to set them up, but they could be the
unwitting tools of someone else. Someone smarter.
good wards and a few emergency exits, just in case, would be best.” He didn’t
think the two witches were trying to set them up, but they could be the
unwitting tools of someone else. Someone smarter.
“Is the Thief’s Downfall installed already?” Remus asked. Sirius’s best
remaining friend had been quiet so far — too quiet, for Sirius’s taste. Remus
was taking his failure to capture Wormtail too hard.
remaining friend had been quiet so far — too quiet, for Sirius’s taste. Remus
was taking his failure to capture Wormtail too hard.
“Our version of it,” Fred said, “will be ready tomorrow.”
“Good,” Sirius nodded in approval.
“And what are you planning to do about Nott?”
“Well… we need him to find his backer. And they’ll be careful, and aware of
the risk of him getting captured. That limits our options somewhat.” Sirius
said. He grinned. ‘I think we will have to prevail upon those two witches of
your acquaintance to lend us a hand.’ He checked his watch. “We can discuss
the details after dinner. Molly will be calling us soon.”
the risk of him getting captured. That limits our options somewhat.” Sirius
said. He grinned. ‘I think we will have to prevail upon those two witches of
your acquaintance to lend us a hand.’ He checked his watch. “We can discuss
the details after dinner. Molly will be calling us soon.”
“Ah… another meal where ickle Ronnie’s praises are sung,” George said, though
with a smile.
with a smile.
“You know, I thought Ron was the safe brother. No Head Boy, no Ministry
employee, no star Seeker. The one Weasley Mum wouldn’t be able to compare us
to, and find us wanting,” Fred added with a mock-pout. “And then he goes and
not only earns an Order of Merlin, but a seat on the Wizengamot as well! So
much for family loyalty!”
employee, no star Seeker. The one Weasley Mum wouldn’t be able to compare us
to, and find us wanting,” Fred added with a mock-pout. “And then he goes and
not only earns an Order of Merlin, but a seat on the Wizengamot as well! So
much for family loyalty!”
“It’s not certain, yet,” Sirius said, chuckling. “It’ll be decided on Friday.
Although it is looking very likely that the proposal will be accepted.”
Although it is looking very likely that the proposal will be accepted.”
“Your proposal, you mean!” Fred said. “It was all your idea!”
Sirius grinned. “Yes.”
“Although I can assure you that Sirius never thought his idea would amount to
anything, nor did he plan this,” Remus cut in. “It was pure, dumb luck.”
anything, nor did he plan this,” Remus cut in. “It was pure, dumb luck.”
Sirius shot his friend a hurt look, but he wasn’t mad — it was good to see
Remus ribbing him. Hopefully, his friend would get over his issues. At least
he had accepted some money ‘for expenses’, and was now dressed nicely.
Remus ribbing him. Hopefully, his friend would get over his issues. At least
he had accepted some money ‘for expenses’, and was now dressed nicely.
Remus was correct, of course — Sirius hadn’t expected his spur of the moment
proposal to bear such fruits.
proposal to bear such fruits.
Not that he minded being proven wrong. Harry and his friends deserved this.
And who knew? Their votes might prove decisive as well.
And who knew? Their votes might prove decisive as well.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 6th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass wasn’t as nervous when she and Tracey approached the twins’
shop as she had been the day before, but she came close. Meeting Sirius Black
wasn’t something to take lightly. He was the only wizard, ever, to escape from
Azkaban without outside help, and he had broken into Hogwarts several times
while it had been guarded by hordes of Dementors. Some people even claimed he
had sold his soul for revenge, and this was why the Dementors wouldn’t touch
him any more. That was rubbish, of course, but there was no doubt that he was
a very powerful wizard. And he was a Black.
shop as she had been the day before, but she came close. Meeting Sirius Black
wasn’t something to take lightly. He was the only wizard, ever, to escape from
Azkaban without outside help, and he had broken into Hogwarts several times
while it had been guarded by hordes of Dementors. Some people even claimed he
had sold his soul for revenge, and this was why the Dementors wouldn’t touch
him any more. That was rubbish, of course, but there was no doubt that he was
a very powerful wizard. And he was a Black.
The building was still lacking a roof, but the floor seemed to be completed
now. They had worked quickly. This time, there was no howling when she touched
the door knocker with her wand, but some infernal noise — muggle music, she
realised after a second. She had heard it before, when she had listened to the
Resistance on the wireless.
now. They had worked quickly. This time, there was no howling when she touched
the door knocker with her wand, but some infernal noise — muggle music, she
realised after a second. She had heard it before, when she had listened to the
Resistance on the wireless.
Once more it was Fred who opened the door. He stared at them for a moment,
then stepped to the side, motioning with his head for them to enter while he
kept his wand trained on them.
then stepped to the side, motioning with his head for them to enter while he
kept his wand trained on them.
Daphne refrained from glaring at him, and stepped through the door. Cool
liquid splashed over her. Thief’s Downfall, she realised, gasping and freezing
up for a moment while she remembered the last time she had been inside this
shop, when the Polyjuice-granted disguises had been stripped off her and
Tracey, and they had barely managed to escape the twins.
liquid splashed over her. Thief’s Downfall, she realised, gasping and freezing
up for a moment while she remembered the last time she had been inside this
shop, when the Polyjuice-granted disguises had been stripped off her and
Tracey, and they had barely managed to escape the twins.
She controlled herself, though, and kept walking as the liquid dried off in
less than a second. She wouldn’t give Fred the satisfaction of seeing her
tremble. She noticed George as well, a bit further in the back, behind the
counter, his wand pointed at her as well, though he seemed more amused than
angry.
less than a second. She wouldn’t give Fred the satisfaction of seeing her
tremble. She noticed George as well, a bit further in the back, behind the
counter, his wand pointed at her as well, though he seemed more amused than
angry.
Behind her, Tracey hissed when she stepped through the door, and Fred snorted.
“Too cold? We improved on the formula some. Unlike goblins, we don’t have a
monopoly, so we prefer our customers not to be inconvenienced.”
“Too cold? We improved on the formula some. Unlike goblins, we don’t have a
monopoly, so we prefer our customers not to be inconvenienced.”
Daphne didn’t deign to answer the mocking comment. Instead, she turned towards
George, then looked around to see if she could spot Black.
George, then looked around to see if she could spot Black.
George tapped the counter. “Your wands, please.”
Daphne clenched her teeth. Being told to hand over her wand was not just an
insult, it would also leave her defenceless. But she had no choice. “Of
course,” she said. She noted with a small amount of satisfaction that the
twins tensed up when she drew her wand. At least they took her seriously.
insult, it would also leave her defenceless. But she had no choice. “Of
course,” she said. She noted with a small amount of satisfaction that the
twins tensed up when she drew her wand. At least they took her seriously.
She dropped the wand on the counter, with Tracey following her example. George
cast a few spells at them and put them away in one of his robes’ pockets. That
done he smiled and offered her his arm.
cast a few spells at them and put them away in one of his robes’ pockets. That
done he smiled and offered her his arm.
Daphne blinked, then understood. They’d apparate from here. “Are you that
afraid of us?” she asked, stepping closer to the wizard.
afraid of us?” she asked, stepping closer to the wizard.
“Not really,” Fred butted in. “You can be handled, easily. But you might have
friends waiting to attack us.”
friends waiting to attack us.”
Tracey was frowning at Fred. Daphne couldn’t fault her — her friend would have
to apparate with him.
to apparate with him.
“Not that we’re afraid of whatever friends you might have brought, mind you,”
George said. “We’ve faced the Dark Lord himself, after all. But it’d be a
bother to deal with another set of fools.”
George said. “We’ve faced the Dark Lord himself, after all. But it’d be a
bother to deal with another set of fools.”
Such arrogance! Daphne glared at him, but he didn’t seem to be impressed. His
smile widened. Pressing her lips together, she slipped her arm into his. A
moment later, she felt the familiar and unwelcome sensation of
Side-Along-Apparition.
smile widened. Pressing her lips together, she slipped her arm into his. A
moment later, she felt the familiar and unwelcome sensation of
Side-Along-Apparition.
She pulled her arm back as soon as they appeared at their destination, then
looked around. They were in a muggle flat; the furniture was telling. And
there was Black, just rising from an ugly armchair in a corner.
looked around. They were in a muggle flat; the furniture was telling. And
there was Black, just rising from an ugly armchair in a corner.
“Good morning, Miss Greengrass,” he said, bowing with the grace expected of a
Black. “Miss Davis.” He was wearing robes, she noted. Expensive ones.
Black. “Miss Davis.” He was wearing robes, she noted. Expensive ones.
“Good morning.” Another man had stood up from the couch.
Daphne looked at him, and froze. She knew that man. No, that creature — Lupin.
A werewolf. She was in the same room as a werewolf, and without any means to
defend herself!
A werewolf. She was in the same room as a werewolf, and without any means to
defend herself!
“Good morning, Mister Black, Mister Lupin.” Tracey inclined her head.
Tracey was handling the situation much better than herself, Daphne realised.
But then, her friend had had a crush on their third year Defence teacher.
Until he had been revealed as a werewolf, of course. “Good morning,” Daphne
added, with a slight bow. She told herself that the full moon was still almost
three weeks away. Lupin couldn’t transform. That didn’t mean he wasn’t
dangerous, of course.
But then, her friend had had a crush on their third year Defence teacher.
Until he had been revealed as a werewolf, of course. “Good morning,” Daphne
added, with a slight bow. She told herself that the full moon was still almost
three weeks away. Lupin couldn’t transform. That didn’t mean he wasn’t
dangerous, of course.
“Please have a seat.” Black flicked his wand, and two seats appeared opposite
his own.
his own.
Daphne exchanged a glance with Tracey, then sat down.
Black sat down, rubbing his beard with his free hand. “Would you like some
refreshments?”
refreshments?”
It would be rude to turn the offer down, Daphne knew, and nodded. “Yes,
please. Thank you.” Her smile froze for a second when Lupin stood up and
headed to where she assumed the muggles had placed the kitchen. To eat and
drink anything touched by a werewolf… she managed not to shudder by focusing
on her anger. Black was deliberately making a mockery out of pureblood
courtesy! And she couldn’t call him on it because she needed his help. She
took a deep breath and reminded herself that she was doing this for her
sister, and her family.
please. Thank you.” Her smile froze for a second when Lupin stood up and
headed to where she assumed the muggles had placed the kitchen. To eat and
drink anything touched by a werewolf… she managed not to shudder by focusing
on her anger. Black was deliberately making a mockery out of pureblood
courtesy! And she couldn’t call him on it because she needed his help. She
took a deep breath and reminded herself that she was doing this for her
sister, and her family.
Lupin returned with a floating tray full of snacks, putting it down on the low
table between them and Black. Daphne hid her revulsion and grabbed a small
sandwich and a butterbeer, then watched as Tracey, followed by Black and the
others grabbed or summoned snacks for themselves. She didn’t want to eat, she
wanted to get this over with and leave, get her wand back and go home. Instead
she had to make brainless conversation about the food and drink.
table between them and Black. Daphne hid her revulsion and grabbed a small
sandwich and a butterbeer, then watched as Tracey, followed by Black and the
others grabbed or summoned snacks for themselves. She didn’t want to eat, she
wanted to get this over with and leave, get her wand back and go home. Instead
she had to make brainless conversation about the food and drink.
“So… your friend Theo Nott is attacking muggleborns,” Black said, finally.
“He wanted to recruit us and hinted at receiving support from others. We don’t
know for certain if he’s behind the attacks on muggleborns, but it might have
been him,” Daphne said.
know for certain if he’s behind the attacks on muggleborns, but it might have
been him,” Daphne said.
“Yes. He said he’d be more cautious. Using the Imperius to command others, and
cursing people from a broom, then flying away before they can react would fit
that,” Tracey added.
cursing people from a broom, then flying away before they can react would fit
that,” Tracey added.
Black nodded, a faint, cruel smile appearing on his lips. “But you’re certain
that he at the very least plans to attack muggleborns.”
that he at the very least plans to attack muggleborns.”
“And blood traitors,” Tracey added.
Daphne glared at her friend. They had no wands! If they angered Black and the
others…
others…
Their host snorted, though, apparently amused. “Of course.” He shrugged.
‘Well, it’s enough to take action.’ Leaning forward, his smile widened. “But
you’ll be helping us with that.”
‘Well, it’s enough to take action.’ Leaning forward, his smile widened. “But
you’ll be helping us with that.”
Daphne wanted to refuse. She didn’t want to be involved in the war any more.
She certainly didn’t want to risk her own and her sister’s life to catch Theo.
But she had no choice if she wanted to weather this. “Of course,” she said,
with a weak smile.
She certainly didn’t want to risk her own and her sister’s life to catch Theo.
But she had no choice if she wanted to weather this. “Of course,” she said,
with a weak smile.
---
**London, Soho, March 6th, 1997**
Waiting in the café, Hermione Granger was nervous. Even though she shouldn’t
be, since she had planned this thoroughly. She had done extensive research,
with multiple muggle and wizard sources. She bought everything they might
need, for any eventuality, and had placed it all in the hotel room she had
rented for easy access. She had warded the room as well, just so they’d be
safe. She knew she was ready, too — had been ready for a while, in fact. She
was as prepared as she could be.
be, since she had planned this thoroughly. She had done extensive research,
with multiple muggle and wizard sources. She bought everything they might
need, for any eventuality, and had placed it all in the hotel room she had
rented for easy access. She had warded the room as well, just so they’d be
safe. She knew she was ready, too — had been ready for a while, in fact. She
was as prepared as she could be.
And yet, she was nervous. It didn’t make any sense. Ron wanted it as well. She
knew that. She was certain that it would have happened last weekend, at
Hogwarts, if she had asked him to. Or if she had transfigured the desk into a
bed instead of a love seat. Or maybe just a larger couch — they certainly had
come very close.
knew that. She was certain that it would have happened last weekend, at
Hogwarts, if she had asked him to. Or if she had transfigured the desk into a
bed instead of a love seat. Or maybe just a larger couch — they certainly had
come very close.
She blushed, remembering the night of his birthday. She had thought about
going all the way, but it wouldn’t have been right. She didn’t want to make
this into something she gave Ron, as if it was a gift. They would do this
together. She nodded at herself, reaffirming her resolve, then checked her
watch. Fifteen minutes left. And no Ron yet.
going all the way, but it wouldn’t have been right. She didn’t want to make
this into something she gave Ron, as if it was a gift. They would do this
together. She nodded at herself, reaffirming her resolve, then checked her
watch. Fifteen minutes left. And no Ron yet.
Of course, Ron might have been held up. She hadn’t told him what she was
planning, just that she would be surprising him, and that might have been too
subtle a hint. With the Wizengamot session tomorrow deciding about their Order
of Merlins and their seats on the Wizengamot, things might have come up that
required him. Although Sirius would have informed her as well, wouldn’t he?
She bit her lower lip and twisted a lock of her hair around her finger. Or
tried to — her hair was so short, now, she didn’t really manage. But it was
more practical, especially with the training camp starting in two days.
planning, just that she would be surprising him, and that might have been too
subtle a hint. With the Wizengamot session tomorrow deciding about their Order
of Merlins and their seats on the Wizengamot, things might have come up that
required him. Although Sirius would have informed her as well, wouldn’t he?
She bit her lower lip and twisted a lock of her hair around her finger. Or
tried to — her hair was so short, now, she didn’t really manage. But it was
more practical, especially with the training camp starting in two days.
Fourteen minutes left until the scheduled time for their date. They’d have
plenty of time for what she had planned. The whole evening. And discreet as
well, since they would not stay the night. Not that there would be anything
wrong if they did — both of them were adults according to Wizarding Britain,
and above the age of consent in Britain. And her parents wouldn’t disapprove,
if they knew. She was pretty certain of that. Ron was a fine boy. Man. Brave,
handsome, attentive, talented… she almost sighed.
plenty of time for what she had planned. The whole evening. And discreet as
well, since they would not stay the night. Not that there would be anything
wrong if they did — both of them were adults according to Wizarding Britain,
and above the age of consent in Britain. And her parents wouldn’t disapprove,
if they knew. She was pretty certain of that. Ron was a fine boy. Man. Brave,
handsome, attentive, talented… she almost sighed.
Thirteen minutes. If Ron wanted to be certain to be on time and had taken an
earlier bus, then he could arrive any second now, according to the schedules
she had memorised. Unless there had been a traffic jam, of course.
earlier bus, then he could arrive any second now, according to the schedules
she had memorised. Unless there had been a traffic jam, of course.
She caught herself tapping her fingers on the table, and clenched her fist.
There was no reason to be nervous. She was as ready for this as she could be.
She knew it wouldn’t be the stuff of romance novels, too — their first time
wouldn’t be a mind-blowing event. They had no experience, well, as far as she
knew. Not with sex. Real sex, at least. They had come close, and that had
been… this time she did sigh.
There was no reason to be nervous. She was as ready for this as she could be.
She knew it wouldn’t be the stuff of romance novels, too — their first time
wouldn’t be a mind-blowing event. They had no experience, well, as far as she
knew. Not with sex. Real sex, at least. They had come close, and that had
been… this time she did sigh.
And almost missed Ron’s arrival. “Ron!” She raised her hand while he stood in
the door, looking for her. And she saw his face lit up with a smile when he
spotted her, matching her own.
the door, looking for her. And she saw his face lit up with a smile when he
spotted her, matching her own.
“Hi there!” he said, kissing her — on the cheek. He smelled nice, just a hint
of aftershave. “Have you been waiting long?”
of aftershave. “Have you been waiting long?”
“No. You’re early.” She was telling the truth — it hadn’t been that long.
The waitress didn’t take long to bring his order — a soft drink he hadn’t
tried before, as he told her. “So,” he said, after taking a sip, and frowning
at the taste, “You mentioned a surprise?”
tried before, as he told her. “So,” he said, after taking a sip, and frowning
at the taste, “You mentioned a surprise?”
She licked her lips, suddenly nervous again. “Yes.” She nodded. “I’ve rented a
room. In a hotel nearby.”
room. In a hotel nearby.”
His eyes widened, and suddenly, he looked nervous too. “Oh.”
“Unless you…” she trailed off. If he didn’t want to, she wouldn’t pressure
him; all the good books said that that would ruin it.
him; all the good books said that that would ruin it.
“No, no!” He blinked again. “I mean, yes, I want to. I’m just…”
“Me too,” she said.
---
Ron Weasley was nervous, and grew more nervous the closer they got to the inn
Hermione had picked. For their first time. He hadn’t expected this. He had
dreamed of it, of course. But in his dreams, he hadn’t been nervous. He had
known what to do, and it had been perfect, and Hermione had been all over him,
and…
Hermione had picked. For their first time. He hadn’t expected this. He had
dreamed of it, of course. But in his dreams, he hadn’t been nervous. He had
known what to do, and it had been perfect, and Hermione had been all over him,
and…
He took a deep breath. They were walking arm in arm, and he could feel her
warmth through his jacket when she leaned into him and explained that she had
rented the room for the night, that she had arranged for room service —
apparently, the inn would bring a meal to their room — and that she had
prepared everything in advance.
warmth through his jacket when she leaned into him and explained that she had
rented the room for the night, that she had arranged for room service —
apparently, the inn would bring a meal to their room — and that she had
prepared everything in advance.
She was as nervous as he was, he realised — a thought that felt strangely
comforting. He slipped his arm around her waist, pulling her close, and she
fell silent for a moment, smiling at him.
comforting. He slipped his arm around her waist, pulling her close, and she
fell silent for a moment, smiling at him.
They kissed, properly this time, no mere peck on her lips, before entering the
lobby. He let her handle the muggle clerk while he looked around, taking in
the muggle decor. And the other guests, sitting at the low tables. It all
looked very expensive, but since Hermione had already paid for the room, he
didn’t know how expensive.
lobby. He let her handle the muggle clerk while he looked around, taking in
the muggle decor. And the other guests, sitting at the low tables. It all
looked very expensive, but since Hermione had already paid for the room, he
didn’t know how expensive.
The room itself was larger than he expected — larger than his own room at
Sirius’s home, even, and that had been the largest room he had ever slept in.
The largest bed as well. There was a muggle wireless too, and the biggest
telly he had ever seen. “If that thing was any bigger, it’d be a cinema,” he
said, shaking his head.
Sirius’s home, even, and that had been the largest room he had ever slept in.
The largest bed as well. There was a muggle wireless too, and the biggest
telly he had ever seen. “If that thing was any bigger, it’d be a cinema,” he
said, shaking his head.
“I told them to bring the food up right away,” Hermione said. ‘Unfortunately,
we can’t watch TV since I warded the room. And that means electronics won’t
work in here.’ She blushed slightly. “It’s not as if we’re going to be
watching TV tonight.”
we can’t watch TV since I warded the room. And that means electronics won’t
work in here.’ She blushed slightly. “It’s not as if we’re going to be
watching TV tonight.”
Ron nodded. He wasn’t disappointed — safety came first. The Death Eaters and
their supporters would like to kill both of them, especially in light of
tomorrow’s vote in the Wizengamot. Fortunately, room service arrived quickly.
their supporters would like to kill both of them, especially in light of
tomorrow’s vote in the Wizengamot. Fortunately, room service arrived quickly.
“I told the reception not to disturb us,” Hermione explained while they ate.
Ron nodded. He didn’t want anyone interrupting them either, of course. Or
watching them.
watching them.
Sighing, she stared at the telly and the wireless: “I don’t miss the telly,
but I had picked out the best romantic songs I could think of too. But I
haven’t yet figured out how to get reception inside a warded area.” She shook
her head. “Of course, the muggles don’t know the reason for the unexplainable
trouble with TV reception in London — it started when the purebloods began to
hide.”
but I had picked out the best romantic songs I could think of too. But I
haven’t yet figured out how to get reception inside a warded area.” She shook
her head. “Of course, the muggles don’t know the reason for the unexplainable
trouble with TV reception in London — it started when the purebloods began to
hide.”
Oh. His own eyes widened when he made the connection. “The wards.”
She nodded. “Once we have the time to spare, we can use this to find the
purebloods’ hideouts in London!”
purebloods’ hideouts in London!”
He didn’t want to talk about the war. “But not right now, I think,” he said,
looking pointedly at her, then at the bed.
looking pointedly at her, then at the bed.
She smiled, again blushing a little. “Of course not right now. And not
tomorrow. But we’ll find the missing Death Eaters.”
tomorrow. But we’ll find the missing Death Eaters.”
---
Almost too soon, they were finished with the meal and standing in front of the
bed.
bed.
“So…” Hermione said, biting her lower lip.
“So…” Ron repeated, licking his own.
For a moment, they stared at each other, neither of them moving. Then Hermione
took a step closer, and Ron opened his arms, and they were kissing, and
neither was hesitating any more. They were on the bed, now. Hands started to
slip under clothes, opening buttons and pulling on zippers, like they had done
before, at Hogwarts.
took a step closer, and Ron opened his arms, and they were kissing, and
neither was hesitating any more. They were on the bed, now. Hands started to
slip under clothes, opening buttons and pulling on zippers, like they had done
before, at Hogwarts.
Only this time, they didn’t stop with touching, and didn’t leave the clothes
on. And Ron found himself on his back, with Hermione on top of him. And then…
on. And Ron found himself on his back, with Hermione on top of him. And then…
It wasn’t perfect, of course. It was their first time. And their second. But
it certainly was far better than what he had dreamed of, Ron found out.
it certainly was far better than what he had dreamed of, Ron found out.
---
Later they lay on the bed, with Hermione cuddled to his side. Resting,
enjoying each other’s presence.
enjoying each other’s presence.
“I spent two hours picking out my lingerie,” she said, pointing at a crumpled
piece of fabric on the edge of the bed. “Did you even see it?”
piece of fabric on the edge of the bed. “Did you even see it?”
“Ah…” He didn’t know what to say — he remembered pulling it off, but not much
else about it.
else about it.
She chuckled. “Well, I can model it for you later. If you want me to.”
“Of course!” He gently squeezed her shoulder. “Anything you want.”
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 7th, 1997**
Some people were more boring than Binns, Sirius Black thought, listening to
Melvin Burke drone on about how you needed the kind of wisdom that came with
age to become a member of the Wizengamot, and how teenagers, no matter their
heroic deeds, lacked that. The hypocrite didn’t seem to realise how many of
the members backing him were either barely older than Harry, or the proxies of
even younger wizards and witches.
Melvin Burke drone on about how you needed the kind of wisdom that came with
age to become a member of the Wizengamot, and how teenagers, no matter their
heroic deeds, lacked that. The hypocrite didn’t seem to realise how many of
the members backing him were either barely older than Harry, or the proxies of
even younger wizards and witches.
Of course, he should have expected this. Even though his proposal had the
support of the majority of the Wizengamot, the Death Eater sympathisers
wouldn’t be giving in and letting them take a vote without making them suffer
through as many stupid speeches as possible.
support of the majority of the Wizengamot, the Death Eater sympathisers
wouldn’t be giving in and letting them take a vote without making them suffer
through as many stupid speeches as possible.
Well, their time was running out as well, Sirius knew. People were already
starting to ‘reconsider’ their views — the fact that Thicknesse was supporting
Sirius’s proposal had made quite the impact on those members of the Wizengamot
who lacked a spine. Still not enough to pass the reforms Britain needed, but
they were making progress.
starting to ‘reconsider’ their views — the fact that Thicknesse was supporting
Sirius’s proposal had made quite the impact on those members of the Wizengamot
who lacked a spine. Still not enough to pass the reforms Britain needed, but
they were making progress.
And so was Arthur. Sirius glanced at Bones, whose face was so devoid of any
expression, it seemed like it had been transfigured into stone. She hated
this, but couldn’t stop it. The stupid witch still hadn’t realised that
Britain was changing, had changed too much for the Old Families to keep their
power.
expression, it seemed like it had been transfigured into stone. She hated
this, but couldn’t stop it. The stupid witch still hadn’t realised that
Britain was changing, had changed too much for the Old Families to keep their
power.
Burke had finished, and Longbottom’s proxy was now busy refuting his points.
As if anyone cared! At least Elphias had been elected as Chief Warlock and
would keep things on track — if Runcorn had still been acting Chief Warlock,
the debate would never end.
As if anyone cared! At least Elphias had been elected as Chief Warlock and
would keep things on track — if Runcorn had still been acting Chief Warlock,
the debate would never end.
Sirius sighed. Sometimes, he understood why Voldemort had used force to try to
take over Britain, instead of politics.
take over Britain, instead of politics.
---
**Florida, Key West, March 7th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood studied the small cove in front of him. Strong wards covered
it, hiding it from muggles. Even wizards unfamiliar with the area might miss
it — the cove was so small, there didn’t seem to be enough room for anything
bigger than a hut and a canoe.
it, hiding it from muggles. Even wizards unfamiliar with the area might miss
it — the cove was so small, there didn’t seem to be enough room for anything
bigger than a hut and a canoe.
That was wrong, of course. The cove was known as ‘Smuggler’s Bay’ and one of
the oldest magical enclaves in the Americas, older than the Statute of
Secrecy. As the name indicated, it had been founded to provide pirates and
smugglers with a safe harbour. And it had done well during all the wars in the
region.
the oldest magical enclaves in the Americas, older than the Statute of
Secrecy. As the name indicated, it had been founded to provide pirates and
smugglers with a safe harbour. And it had done well during all the wars in the
region.
The times had changed since, but the business hadn’t. With all the North
American magical enclaves starting wars with each other at the drop of a hat,
the tensions in the Caribbean and the various countries in Central and South
America vying for dominance on the continent, there was always demand for
those who were able to transport cargo and people unseen from one place to
another.
American magical enclaves starting wars with each other at the drop of a hat,
the tensions in the Caribbean and the various countries in Central and South
America vying for dominance on the continent, there was always demand for
those who were able to transport cargo and people unseen from one place to
another.
He glanced around, checked that his clothes looked like those of a local, took
another sip from his vial of Polyjuice, and crossed the wardline, walking
through a bush. He arrived at a busy, if still small, port, with a smattering
of small boats and ships, of all kinds of builds and ages, swaying at their
anchors. He paid them no mind, though — he knew nothing about ships or boats.
He knew a lot about the kind of wizards who used such ships, though. And where
to find them.
another sip from his vial of Polyjuice, and crossed the wardline, walking
through a bush. He arrived at a busy, if still small, port, with a smattering
of small boats and ships, of all kinds of builds and ages, swaying at their
anchors. He paid them no mind, though — he knew nothing about ships or boats.
He knew a lot about the kind of wizards who used such ships, though. And where
to find them.
Smiling faintly, he walked towards the biggest building in the port. The kind
of wizards he needed would be there, drinking and whoring. A man was leaning
on the wall next to the entrance, clad in tribal garments. Augustus didn’t
care if the man was a survivor of the Seminole Shamans or a deserter from the
surviving tribal nations west of the Mississippi. Here, in Smuggler’s Cove,
pretty much everyone had something to hide — like himself.
of wizards he needed would be there, drinking and whoring. A man was leaning
on the wall next to the entrance, clad in tribal garments. Augustus didn’t
care if the man was a survivor of the Seminole Shamans or a deserter from the
surviving tribal nations west of the Mississippi. Here, in Smuggler’s Cove,
pretty much everyone had something to hide — like himself.
He nodded at the man, and entered. Inside, he found the expected mix of shady
elements from all parts of the Americas and the wizards and witches of ill
repute catering to their urges. One of them was already walking towards him,
the smile on her face as fake as her Parisian robes. A slight shake of his
head made her veer off, looking for another customer. He was here to hire a
smuggler who would transport him to Jamaica, and he had no interest in such
base pursuits.
elements from all parts of the Americas and the wizards and witches of ill
repute catering to their urges. One of them was already walking towards him,
the smile on her face as fake as her Parisian robes. A slight shake of his
head made her veer off, looking for another customer. He was here to hire a
smuggler who would transport him to Jamaica, and he had no interest in such
base pursuits.
While he made his way to the bar, he looked the crowd over. There were no
obvious houngans, of course — but that didn’t mean anything. Plenty of people
were disguised. Fortunately, the witch he was looking for wasn’t one of those.
Mirabel Duchamp, allegedly from New Orleans, wouldn’t be one of the most
infamous smugglers plying her trade in the Caribbean if she had the habit of
hiding her identity. Of course, that just meant that when she did use a
disguise, fewer men would suspect her.
obvious houngans, of course — but that didn’t mean anything. Plenty of people
were disguised. Fortunately, the witch he was looking for wasn’t one of those.
Mirabel Duchamp, allegedly from New Orleans, wouldn’t be one of the most
infamous smugglers plying her trade in the Caribbean if she had the habit of
hiding her identity. Of course, that just meant that when she did use a
disguise, fewer men would suspect her.
He spotted her in a corner booth, wearing a loose shirt and breeches like many
of the Caribbean wizards and witches, her long, red hair held tied back in a
ponytail, and her left arm wrapped around a well-built, shirtless man. He
started walking towards her.
of the Caribbean wizards and witches, her long, red hair held tied back in a
ponytail, and her left arm wrapped around a well-built, shirtless man. He
started walking towards her.
She spotted him before he had covered half the distance, and he saw her right
hand disappear under the table. She had kept her wits, then, despite the large
number of empty glasses on the table in front of her.
hand disappear under the table. She had kept her wits, then, despite the large
number of empty glasses on the table in front of her.
“That’s far enough!” she yelled when he was about to reach her booth. “I don’t
like craning my neck to look someone in the eyes, and I’m not about to push my
pretty boy here away just so I can sit up. What do you want?”
like craning my neck to look someone in the eyes, and I’m not about to push my
pretty boy here away just so I can sit up. What do you want?”
He slowly pulled out a purse from his pocket and dropped it on the table.
“Business.”
“Business.”
Her wand hand was still under the table, but he saw her arm twitch. She was
casting something. Probably at the purse. After a moment, she grinned, and
addressed the man at her side. “Get lost, Julio! Business calls.”
casting something. Probably at the purse. After a moment, she grinned, and
addressed the man at her side. “Get lost, Julio! Business calls.”
The young man stood up with a pout, but didn’t try to linger, or draw it out.
If he had been a gambling man, Augustus would have bet a dozen galleons that
Julio would find someone else to pay for his drinks in a few minutes. It
didn’t matter.
If he had been a gambling man, Augustus would have bet a dozen galleons that
Julio would find someone else to pay for his drinks in a few minutes. It
didn’t matter.
“Take a seat, Mister…?” Mirabel said, gesturing at the table.
“Mister will do,” Augustus said as he sat down. He raised his wand. “If you’ll
allow me to ensure some privacy?” She probably had some spells up herself, but
he didn’t trust her, or anyone else.
allow me to ensure some privacy?” She probably had some spells up herself, but
he didn’t trust her, or anyone else.
At her nod he cast a few spells, and the noise of the other guests notably
dimmed. There was no need to make chit-chat; he already knew her reputation,
so he came straight to the point of his visit.
dimmed. There was no need to make chit-chat; he already knew her reputation,
so he came straight to the point of his visit.
“I need a passage to Jamaica.”
Her eyes widened briefly, but she was smiling when she nodded. “That won’t be
cheap.”
cheap.”
He pulled another purse out from his pocket. “That’s no problem.”
She opened the first purse. “British coin?”
“Yes.” He had no accent so she wouldn’t be able to tell if that was just some
misdirection, or if he was actually British. And even if she did, she wouldn’t
know if he was a fugitive, or someone hired by the Ministry. And this
uncertainty would make her cautious, and lessen the chance of a double-cross.
misdirection, or if he was actually British. And even if she did, she wouldn’t
know if he was a fugitive, or someone hired by the Ministry. And this
uncertainty would make her cautious, and lessen the chance of a double-cross.
“Gold is gold,” she said, twirling a galleon in her hand. “Will you require a
passage off the island as well?”
passage off the island as well?”
He shook his head. He didn’t know how long this would take.
“Good. Makes things simpler. It won’t be easy, mind you. The houngans keep a
tight watch.”
tight watch.”
And the haggling began.
Chapter 50: Diplomatic Entanglements
====================================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 50: Diplomatic Entanglements**
‘*The fact that the International Confederation of Wizards issued a mandate
for an inspection of Britain’s ability to uphold the International Statute of
Secrecy shows quite clearly how much the Second Blood War affected not just
Britain, but the magical world as a whole. The stated reason for the
inspection was not just ’a thin excuse’, as is often claimed. While it is true
that no inspections had been sent to Magical Prussia after Grindelwald’s War,
in that case, as with the other countries which had been devastated in that
conflict, forces from the coalition opposing Grindelwald were acting as
occupying forces and upholding the Statute of Secrecy until local government
could be restored. Several wars between the various magical enclaves in North
America ended with similar results. In contrast to those cases, Britain’s
Ministry had been all but wiped out, and neither the Order of the Phoenix nor
the Muggleborn Resistance were internationally recognised governments.*
for an inspection of Britain’s ability to uphold the International Statute of
Secrecy shows quite clearly how much the Second Blood War affected not just
Britain, but the magical world as a whole. The stated reason for the
inspection was not just ’a thin excuse’, as is often claimed. While it is true
that no inspections had been sent to Magical Prussia after Grindelwald’s War,
in that case, as with the other countries which had been devastated in that
conflict, forces from the coalition opposing Grindelwald were acting as
occupying forces and upholding the Statute of Secrecy until local government
could be restored. Several wars between the various magical enclaves in North
America ended with similar results. In contrast to those cases, Britain’s
Ministry had been all but wiped out, and neither the Order of the Phoenix nor
the Muggleborn Resistance were internationally recognised governments.*
*However, it was obvious that the main reasons for the ICW’s decision were to
find out just how powerful Britain was after Dumbledore’s death and to check
the effects of the growing influence of muggleborns on Britain’s politics.
Dumbledore’s death had changed the balance of power, but no one yet knew how
much, and many countries were afraid that their own muggleborn minorities
might follow the example given by Britain’s Muggleborn Resistance.*
find out just how powerful Britain was after Dumbledore’s death and to check
the effects of the growing influence of muggleborns on Britain’s politics.
Dumbledore’s death had changed the balance of power, but no one yet knew how
much, and many countries were afraid that their own muggleborn minorities
might follow the example given by Britain’s Muggleborn Resistance.*
*Within Wizarding Britain, the authorities were very much aware that these
circumstances meant that even an intervention was not out of the question
should the inspection find sufficient grounds for one. And, as Britain had
taken part in the last ICW intervention during the previous century, which had
resulted in the extermination of a large part of the magical nations of
Sub-Saharan Africa, they were also all too aware of the possible consequences
of such an intervention. It goes without saying that this only made an already
tense situation worse.’*
circumstances meant that even an intervention was not out of the question
should the inspection find sufficient grounds for one. And, as Britain had
taken part in the last ICW intervention during the previous century, which had
resulted in the extermination of a large part of the magical nations of
Sub-Saharan Africa, they were also all too aware of the possible consequences
of such an intervention. It goes without saying that this only made an already
tense situation worse.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 8th, 1997**
“You’re the sorriest lot of recruits I’ve ever seen! A bunch of spoiled
yuppies who’ve never gotten sweaty outside the fitness centre! You’ve never
even touched anything more dangerous than your cutlery! And you want to be
soldiers?”
yuppies who’ve never gotten sweaty outside the fitness centre! You’ve never
even touched anything more dangerous than your cutlery! And you want to be
soldiers?”
Harry Potter was torn between grinning and wincing. Hermione hadn’t been
exaggerating when she had said that their instructor reminded her of ‘Full
Metal Jacket’ — Sergeant Boones sounded like a muggle version of Moody. Which
reminded him how Moody had died, making him wince.
exaggerating when she had said that their instructor reminded her of ‘Full
Metal Jacket’ — Sergeant Boones sounded like a muggle version of Moody. Which
reminded him how Moody had died, making him wince.
“You there, with the hair that looks like it should be on a horse’s arse!” The
sergeant pointed at one of the taller recruits, Eric Ballantine, if Harry
remembered his name correctly. “Do you think you can crawl through mud and
live without shampoo and conditioner and perfume for a whole month?” The
mercenary was slightly smaller than Ballantine, but had him cowed.
sergeant pointed at one of the taller recruits, Eric Ballantine, if Harry
remembered his name correctly. “Do you think you can crawl through mud and
live without shampoo and conditioner and perfume for a whole month?” The
mercenary was slightly smaller than Ballantine, but had him cowed.
“Yes, Sergeant!” Ballantine said loudly.
“What was that? Did a mouse just squeak? Do you think anyone can hear you cry
for your mum on a battlefield like that? I’ve heard babies yell louder than
you!”
for your mum on a battlefield like that? I’ve heard babies yell louder than
you!”
“Yes, Sergeant!” Ballantine yelled.
Boones snorted and stepped away, glaring at the line of almost twenty recruits
— including Harry and Ron — again. He pointed at a witch Harry readily
recognised — Mary-Jane Wilton, the survivor of the ‘Avengers plot’. “You,
girlie! You ready to risk your life on the battlefield? Ready to kill? Huh?”
— including Harry and Ron — again. He pointed at a witch Harry readily
recognised — Mary-Jane Wilton, the survivor of the ‘Avengers plot’. “You,
girlie! You ready to risk your life on the battlefield? Ready to kill? Huh?”
“Yes, Sergeant!” the witch yelled, her expression furious.
Boones snorted again, but didn’t press her further. He looked at Harry and
squinted. “You there, with the scar! You look like you’d rather be in a warm
café discussing politics with your mates and fantasising about the Spice
Girls!”
squinted. “You there, with the scar! You look like you’d rather be in a warm
café discussing politics with your mates and fantasising about the Spice
Girls!”
Harry heard Ron snort next to him and set his jaw, meeting the Sergeant’s
eyes.
eyes.
“Did you lose your voice, or just your nerve?” The Sergeant was now looming
over him.
over him.
“No, Sergeant!” Harry bellowed straight into the man’s face.
Boones narrowed his eyes, but nodded. “Looks like there’s someone here with
more spine than a snail.” Then he turned to Ron.
more spine than a snail.” Then he turned to Ron.
“And you there, Ginger! You think this is funny? It’s all one big joke, huh?”
Out of the corner of his eye, Harry saw Ron wince, and had to struggle not to
grin himself while Ron got yelled at.
grin himself while Ron got yelled at.
The mercenary took a step back. “Well, I’d say you lot are hopeless, but a few
among you sorry excuses for recruits might prove me wrong — if you don’t puke
your guts out after a bit of light exercise! Three laps on that course! Move!”
among you sorry excuses for recruits might prove me wrong — if you don’t puke
your guts out after a bit of light exercise! Three laps on that course! Move!”
Harry took a deep breath while he started to run, Ron right on his heels, and
tried not to glare at the smirking Resistance members watching the new
recruits file past them. At least when Moody had drilled them, there hadn’t
been a peanut gallery.
tried not to glare at the smirking Resistance members watching the new
recruits file past them. At least when Moody had drilled them, there hadn’t
been a peanut gallery.
---
Hermione Granger forced herself to look impassive while the Sergeant put the
Resistance’s new recruits through their paces. They deserved respect,
especially from their new leader.
Resistance’s new recruits through their paces. They deserved respect,
especially from their new leader.
Unfortunately, not all Resistance members were as restrained. Seamus was
chuckling loudly, and Tania was smirking. Poor form, in Hermione’s opinion,
especially with both Mary-Jane and Louise among the new recruits, since
neither had received the original training from the two mercenaries. At least
Justin, Sally-Anne and John weren’t joining in.
chuckling loudly, and Tania was smirking. Poor form, in Hermione’s opinion,
especially with both Mary-Jane and Louise among the new recruits, since
neither had received the original training from the two mercenaries. At least
Justin, Sally-Anne and John weren’t joining in.
“We’re doing the course as well, once they’re done,” she reminded them. Seamus
groaned. “We can’t let the new recruits show up the veterans, can we?” she
added.
groaned. “We can’t let the new recruits show up the veterans, can we?” she
added.
The Irish wizard snorted. “We’re in better shape than the lot of them.”
“Right now. Might be different at the end of the month,” Hermione answered.
Especially with Louise and Mary-Jane, who had been exercising with the group
since they had joined. And Harry and Ron were certainly very fit — Ron had
demonstrated that quite thoroughly, Hermione thought to herself, smiling
faintly despite her efforts to remain impassive.
Especially with Louise and Mary-Jane, who had been exercising with the group
since they had joined. And Harry and Ron were certainly very fit — Ron had
demonstrated that quite thoroughly, Hermione thought to herself, smiling
faintly despite her efforts to remain impassive.
She clapped her hands. “Now, check the camp and ensure that all tents are
properly set up and the supplies stashed correctly!” she ordered. Since the
Major was standing near them, she couldn’t directly tell them to check if the
anti-muggle wards on the tents were done, and the camp itself was protected
against intruders.
properly set up and the supplies stashed correctly!” she ordered. Since the
Major was standing near them, she couldn’t directly tell them to check if the
anti-muggle wards on the tents were done, and the camp itself was protected
against intruders.
Once everyone was busy doing something, Kolen stepped up next to her and
watched the activity in the camp, and the glimpses of the recruits’ run they
caught through the trees. “You’re missing some people,” he said after a few
minutes, in a low tone.
watched the activity in the camp, and the glimpses of the recruits’ run they
caught through the trees. “You’re missing some people,” he said after a few
minutes, in a low tone.
“Yes,” she said.
“About half of you. Will they be joining us later?”
“No.” She couldn’t completely keep her emotions out of her answer.
He nodded. “I see.”
Hermione didn’t know why, but she added: “One’s in a coma, the rest are dead.”
She thought she heard him hiss through his teeth, but she wasn’t certain.
“That’s a lot of casualties.”
“That’s a lot of casualties.”
“We had a lot of engagements.” She tried to sound professional. Distant. “We
won, but there could be trouble in the future.”
won, but there could be trouble in the future.”
“So your second in command said.”
Hermione nodded and made an agreeing noise while she watched Sally-Anne check
the supplies they had stashed in the open for the benefit of the two
instructors.
the supplies they had stashed in the open for the benefit of the two
instructors.
“Mick’s wondering about your group. He can’t place you. It nags at him — a
bunch of soft rich kids, waging war, and he doesn’t know where, or why. You
don’t fit his experiences.”
bunch of soft rich kids, waging war, and he doesn’t know where, or why. You
don’t fit his experiences.”
She turned her head to look at him, but didn’t answer.
“I’ve seen things in Africa,” he went on, meeting her eyes. “Weird things,
unnatural even — but that’s Africa. I wouldn’t have expected to encounter such
things in England.”
unnatural even — but that’s Africa. I wouldn’t have expected to encounter such
things in England.”
She watched him. He hadn’t said that he knew about magic. But he certainly had
his suspicions. She should obliviate him. On the other hand, many people
believed in magic, though no one would believe a few tall tales from the bush,
told over a drink or three.
his suspicions. She should obliviate him. On the other hand, many people
believed in magic, though no one would believe a few tall tales from the bush,
told over a drink or three.
“Every place on Earth has legends and myths,” she said. She didn’t add ‘with
the exception of Antarctica’, even though that would have been correct.
the exception of Antarctica’, even though that would have been correct.
“Those are just that, myth and legends,” the Major said. He didn’t sound
certain, though.
certain, though.
“Perhaps. ‘There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt
of in your philosophy’,” she quoted Shakespeare — or what muggles thought he
had written, after the ICW had instituted the Statute of Secrecy and had
removed most knowledge of magic from them.
of in your philosophy’,” she quoted Shakespeare — or what muggles thought he
had written, after the ICW had instituted the Statute of Secrecy and had
removed most knowledge of magic from them.
The soldier snorted. “So, should I watch out for three witches trying to curse
us?”
us?”
“I wouldn’t be worried about three witches,” she said, “but a dozen of them
could be trouble.” She chuckled, but she could see that he took her comment
seriously.
could be trouble.” She chuckled, but she could see that he took her comment
seriously.
---
Ron Weasley winced when he sat down on the log facing the campfire, balancing
the tray of his ‘mess kit’ containing his dinner on his knees. The Sergeant —
he had quickly started to think of Sergeant Boones as simply ‘the Sergeant’ —
wasn’t as brutal as Moody, but the lack of broken bones was more than made up
for by the fact that Ron and the others couldn’t use magic to remove bruises.
Hermione had been very clear about that.
the tray of his ‘mess kit’ containing his dinner on his knees. The Sergeant —
he had quickly started to think of Sergeant Boones as simply ‘the Sergeant’ —
wasn’t as brutal as Moody, but the lack of broken bones was more than made up
for by the fact that Ron and the others couldn’t use magic to remove bruises.
Hermione had been very clear about that.
At least Ron hadn’t fared too badly — thanks to Moody’s training regime and
the Quidditch training sessions, he wasn’t as exhausted as the majority of the
recruits. A bit of ointment would prevent any aching muscles tomorrow, and he
had only fallen down twice on the obstacle course, and into mud. Others hadn’t
been so lucky. He glanced at Emily, a twenty-something witch who was nursing a
‘sprained ankle’ — a broken leg actually, healed by Sally-Anne — and various
bruises that hadn’t been treated and which would have Luna write an article
about ‘spotted humans’, should she see the poor witch.
the Quidditch training sessions, he wasn’t as exhausted as the majority of the
recruits. A bit of ointment would prevent any aching muscles tomorrow, and he
had only fallen down twice on the obstacle course, and into mud. Others hadn’t
been so lucky. He glanced at Emily, a twenty-something witch who was nursing a
‘sprained ankle’ — a broken leg actually, healed by Sally-Anne — and various
bruises that hadn’t been treated and which would have Luna write an article
about ‘spotted humans’, should she see the poor witch.
“Hey!”
He whipped his head around at the whispered word, hand going to his wand,
before he recognised Hermione and smiled. He had almost dropped his tray, but
the noodles were quite firmly stuck to it and hadn’t spilled. He wasn’t
certain if that was a good sign.
before he recognised Hermione and smiled. He had almost dropped his tray, but
the noodles were quite firmly stuck to it and hadn’t spilled. He wasn’t
certain if that was a good sign.
She held out a mug to him. “Fancy some hot tea?”
He eagerly took it. “Thanks!”
She sat down next to him, on the log. “How was your day?” She had the same
tray from a mess kit, though not quite as full as his.
tray from a mess kit, though not quite as full as his.
He shrugged, tasting his first forkful of noodles. Edible, but nothing beyond
that. “I’m a bit disappointed that we haven’t even touched a muggle weapon
yet.” Instead, they had ran and jumped and climbed and swung from ropes over a
muddy creek — or tried to. They had been allowed to use cleaning charms behind
the curtains of the ‘shower stall’ the Resistance had rigged, and warming
charms had taken care of the cold, but just about everyone, even Harry, had
spent the day wet, covered in mud, or both, and Ron hadn’t been any exception.
that. “I’m a bit disappointed that we haven’t even touched a muggle weapon
yet.” Instead, they had ran and jumped and climbed and swung from ropes over a
muddy creek — or tried to. They had been allowed to use cleaning charms behind
the curtains of the ‘shower stall’ the Resistance had rigged, and warming
charms had taken care of the cold, but just about everyone, even Harry, had
spent the day wet, covered in mud, or both, and Ron hadn’t been any exception.
She snorted. “That’ll start tomorrow.” Leaning into his shoulder, she added:
“You held up well today.”
“You held up well today.”
“I did my best,” he said — he couldn’t afford to look bad in front of
everyone, not as the only pureblood in the camp, and the boyfriend of their
leader. “Thanks for the lesson about guns, by the way,” he added, switching
his mug to his left hand so he could wrap his right arm around her shoulder.
He took a look around as well — he couldn’t let anyone else sneak up on him in
the middle of the forest. To think that Justin’s family owned all of this
land…
everyone, not as the only pureblood in the camp, and the boyfriend of their
leader. “Thanks for the lesson about guns, by the way,” he added, switching
his mug to his left hand so he could wrap his right arm around her shoulder.
He took a look around as well — he couldn’t let anyone else sneak up on him in
the middle of the forest. To think that Justin’s family owned all of this
land…
“It wasn’t a lesson, but just an overview. Pretty much every muggleborn knows
that much about guns,” Hermione said. ‘Although pretty much every muggleborn
has some serious misconceptions about guns as well,’ she added, and he knew
she was smiling. “You’ll have the advantage of not having to unlearn all the
stupid things they do in the movies.”
that much about guns,” Hermione said. ‘Although pretty much every muggleborn
has some serious misconceptions about guns as well,’ she added, and he knew
she was smiling. “You’ll have the advantage of not having to unlearn all the
stupid things they do in the movies.”
Ron smiled. “I’m not calling them firelegs, either.”
She chuckled. “Good. The instructors are already a little suspicious.” She
started to eat as well and he could see her frown slightly at the taste.
started to eat as well and he could see her frown slightly at the taste.
“Not Mum’s cooking,” he said.
“No. Although I’ve been told by the Sergeant that it’s very good for camp
food.”
food.”
He raised his eyebrows at that. “I would pity him, if he hadn’t tried to kill
me today.”
me today.”
That made her chuckle again. “It’s going to get worse, you know.”
“How?”
“In the exercises, he’ll be able to shoot at you. With paintballs, not real
bullets, but they hurt anyway. Worse than a Stinging Hex.”
bullets, but they hurt anyway. Worse than a Stinging Hex.”
“Just like Moody,” Ron mumbled under his breath. “At least he’ll have to share
his abuse between twenty of us.”
his abuse between twenty of us.”
“More than that,” she corrected him. “We’ll be training as well.”
“Let me say that I fully approve of your sacrifice!” he said, grinning widely.
She snorted in response, took a few more bites of her noodles, then put the
tray on the ground. After a brief glance around, she vanished the remaining
noodles, and then followed up with a Cleaning Charm.
tray on the ground. After a brief glance around, she vanished the remaining
noodles, and then followed up with a Cleaning Charm.
“I thought we weren’t supposed to use magic,” he said.
“That’s just so the muggles don’t see anything. We’re still wizards and
witches, after all, and we’ll be using magic in the field.” She grinned. “The
Major himself said we should train as we plan to fight. Don’t tell the others,
though — I want to see how they handle the basic training first, before
putting the Statute of Secrecy at risk.”
witches, after all, and we’ll be using magic in the field.” She grinned. “The
Major himself said we should train as we plan to fight. Don’t tell the others,
though — I want to see how they handle the basic training first, before
putting the Statute of Secrecy at risk.”
Ron nodded, and finished his own meal. It wasn’t all that bad and he had been
hungry, but he really missed his mum’s cooking. “We’re not going to eat like
this all the time, then?” He could stomach it, but he wouldn’t mind better
food.
hungry, but he really missed his mum’s cooking. “We’re not going to eat like
this all the time, then?” He could stomach it, but he wouldn’t mind better
food.
“Only during boot camp,” she said.
When he pouted at her she chuckled again, then leaned into him once more.
“At least we’re sleeping in wizard tents, and not some muggle contraption,” he
said, sighing. “It’s like being back at the Quidditch World Cup.”
said, sighing. “It’s like being back at the Quidditch World Cup.”
“Not quite,” she said.
“Well, without the Death Eater attack,” he amended.
She moved her head and he could feel her breath on his ear when she whispered:
“We didn’t sleep together in the same bed back then, either.”
“We didn’t sleep together in the same bed back then, either.”
He stiffened for a moment, then nodded with a wide smile before kissing her.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 9th, 1997**
Ron Weasley stared at the muggle firearm. He had seen them before, of course.
The Resistance had carried them at Hogwarts, and in Diagon Alley. But this was
the first time he had held one.
The Resistance had carried them at Hogwarts, and in Diagon Alley. But this was
the first time he had held one.
“This is an SG 550. It’s a very precise and very expensive and very finicky
assault rifle,” the Major said, holding another one up. ‘If you don’t take
proper care of it, it’ll soon not be that precise any more, nor quite as
reliable either.’ He set his jaw and stared at them. “And if you can’t rely on
your weapon, your friends can’t rely on you.”
assault rifle,” the Major said, holding another one up. ‘If you don’t take
proper care of it, it’ll soon not be that precise any more, nor quite as
reliable either.’ He set his jaw and stared at them. “And if you can’t rely on
your weapon, your friends can’t rely on you.”
Ron nodded. Moody had said similar things about wands.
The Major went on. “It uses a Swiss GP90, a heavier variant of the standard
5.56 mm NATO cartridge.” He held one of the cartridges up. “It may look tiny,
but those things can go through half a yard of wood, and still kill you. If I
ever catch any one of you pointing this weapon at me or at anyone else, you’ll
regret it. Do you understand?”
5.56 mm NATO cartridge.” He held one of the cartridges up. “It may look tiny,
but those things can go through half a yard of wood, and still kill you. If I
ever catch any one of you pointing this weapon at me or at anyone else, you’ll
regret it. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir!” Ron yelled, together with the others. The Sergeant and Hermione
had been quite emphatic about that, even more so than Moody had been about the
risks of blowing your buttock off with a broken wand. It was quite surprising,
he thought as they lined up on the ‘shooting range’, how similar this muggle
military training was to Moody’s training.
had been quite emphatic about that, even more so than Moody had been about the
risks of blowing your buttock off with a broken wand. It was quite surprising,
he thought as they lined up on the ‘shooting range’, how similar this muggle
military training was to Moody’s training.
“Lay down on the ground, get the bipod out, and make sure that you’re aiming
at your assigned target!” the Major yelled.
at your assigned target!” the Major yelled.
Ron quickly obeyed, taking up his position near Harry. Both of the muggles
seemed to yell all the time. They probably were half-deaf from all the noise
all the firearms made, Ron thought, checking that his ‘ear plugs’ hadn’t
fallen out. Hermione had warned Harry and him about that danger, though she
hadn’t said who among the Resistance had had that happen to them.
seemed to yell all the time. They probably were half-deaf from all the noise
all the firearms made, Ron thought, checking that his ‘ear plugs’ hadn’t
fallen out. Hermione had warned Harry and him about that danger, though she
hadn’t said who among the Resistance had had that happen to them.
“Ready! Aim! Fire!”
Ron’s first shot didn’t hit, unlike Harry’s. Neither did his second.
Fortunately, he didn’t take too long to realise what he was doing wrong — he
had to ‘gently squeeze the trigger’, as Harry explained. It was quite easy, he
thought, if done right.
Fortunately, he didn’t take too long to realise what he was doing wrong — he
had to ‘gently squeeze the trigger’, as Harry explained. It was quite easy, he
thought, if done right.
Then they switched to shooting while standing and sitting, and then to moving
targets, and things stopped being easy. At least, he told himself, he wasn’t
breaking any limbs on the shooting range, though his shoulder felt quite sore
when they finally stopped.
targets, and things stopped being easy. At least, he told himself, he wasn’t
breaking any limbs on the shooting range, though his shoulder felt quite sore
when they finally stopped.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 9th, 1997**
Sirius Black had gone through half a bottle of port when Vivienne entered the
living room in his — their — home. He handed her a glass before she could say
anything. “I take it that the meeting with your father wasn’t…” He trailed
off, not certain how to word it.
living room in his — their — home. He handed her a glass before she could say
anything. “I take it that the meeting with your father wasn’t…” He trailed
off, not certain how to word it.
“No, it wasn’t,” she said, sniffing at the glass, then wrinkling her nose and
putting it down. “’Ow you can drink this I’ll never know.”
putting it down. “’Ow you can drink this I’ll never know.”
He chuckled. “How you can eat snails and frog legs I’ll never know.”
“You’ve never tried them,” she retorted, falling back into familiar territory.
“I did, actually. Once. On a dare in third year,” he said. “Tasted horrible.”
Granted, they had been raw, fresh out of McKinnon’s potion kit, but he didn’t
think he had to mention that.
Granted, they had been raw, fresh out of McKinnon’s potion kit, but he didn’t
think he had to mention that.
“You have no taste, then,” Vivienne said, shaking her head. “Though I should
’ave known that already considering your taste in beverages.” She sighed and
pushed the glass away. Their brief banter obviously hadn’t lifted her mood
much.
’ave known that already considering your taste in beverages.” She sighed and
pushed the glass away. Their brief banter obviously hadn’t lifted her mood
much.
“So, what did your father say?” He summoned the glass — it was a really good,
expensive port. No reason to let it go to waste. A flick of his wand sent a
bottle of a ‘proper wine’, as she’d call it, towards her.
expensive port. No reason to let it go to waste. A flick of his wand sent a
bottle of a ‘proper wine’, as she’d call it, towards her.
“Mon père was, as you might say, diplomatic, but ‘e was quite clear that the
Duc ’imself ’ad asked ’im to contact me. Apparently, the Duc expects me to ’do
my duty for France’.” Vivienne set her jaw while she filled a glass.
Duc ’imself ’ad asked ’im to contact me. Apparently, the Duc expects me to ’do
my duty for France’.” Vivienne set her jaw while she filled a glass.
Sirius frowned. First her aunt, and now her father. “Was that a warning, or an
order?”
order?”
“Eh?” She looked confused.
“I mean, did your father tell you that so you’d be warned of the Duc’s
intentions, or did he tell you to obey?” Sirius clarified.
intentions, or did he tell you to obey?” Sirius clarified.
“Ah!” She shook her head and grinned. “No, no. ’E knows better than to try to
order me around.”
order me around.”
That didn’t really reassure him. He knew that he was biased due to his own
upbringing, but it sounded like Vivienne’s family was cut from the same cloth
as the Blacks.
upbringing, but it sounded like Vivienne’s family was cut from the same cloth
as the Blacks.
“‘E did tell me that Fleur’s also being ’stubborn’,” she went on.
That could just be a cover, of course, Sirius knew. Although he didn’t think
Fleur would be betraying them either. He slowly nodded. “Do you think they’ll
increase the pressure?” If they threatened her family…
Fleur would be betraying them either. He slowly nodded. “Do you think they’ll
increase the pressure?” If they threatened her family…
She took a deep breath and shrugged, which had an interesting effect on her
chest. “Not my family. It’s not as if France and Britain are at war. But the
Duc will ’ave other agents working in Britain.”
chest. “Not my family. It’s not as if France and Britain are at war. But the
Duc will ’ave other agents working in Britain.”
“And the delegation from the ICW,” Sirius added.
“Oui! Sabine Beaumont is representing France in the delegation!” Vivienne
sneered. “She’s a serpent. And she ’ates Veela — she was in the same year as
my aunt at Beauxbatons.”
sneered. “She’s a serpent. And she ’ates Veela — she was in the same year as
my aunt at Beauxbatons.”
It sounded as if they had Slytherins in France too, Sirius thought. “Well, I’m
more concerned about the spies we don’t know.”
more concerned about the spies we don’t know.”
“Don’t underestimate ’er! She is very good at plotting.” Vivienne scoffed.
“Good at leading men around, and making friends with naive people, until she
curses them in the back.”
“Good at leading men around, and making friends with naive people, until she
curses them in the back.”
“Literally?” That sounded like his own aunt Lucretia.
“No. She would leave that to others. She’s quite influential at the court —
some rumours claim that she was the Duc’s mistress.”
some rumours claim that she was the Duc’s mistress.”
And he had thought that the Jamaican delegate would be the most dangerous.
“For someone who all but sent your family to help us, the Duc’s being quite
hostile.”
“For someone who all but sent your family to help us, the Duc’s being quite
hostile.”
“The Duc’s still keeping ’is options open, or so père said. But if ’e thinks
that Britain’s too weak too keep the muggleborns in line…”
that Britain’s too weak too keep the muggleborns in line…”
Sirius muttered a curse under his breath. “Great. And if we play down the
power of the muggleborns, Jamaica and others will think we’re too weak to
resist them.” He shook his head.
power of the muggleborns, Jamaica and others will think we’re too weak to
resist them.” He shook his head.
“The Duc’s been talking about improving the situation of the French
muggleborns himself,” Vivienne said, finishing her glass. ‘Apparently, he
plans to give them a voice at court.’ She stood up and sat down on the armrest
of Sirius’s own seat. “He might see Hermione’s appointment in a similar way.”
muggleborns himself,” Vivienne said, finishing her glass. ‘Apparently, he
plans to give them a voice at court.’ She stood up and sat down on the armrest
of Sirius’s own seat. “He might see Hermione’s appointment in a similar way.”
“Let’s hope so,” he said, wrapping an arm around her waist. He was well aware
that a number of Wizengamot members had supported his proposal in the hope
that this would placate the Resistance and the other muggleborns and forestall
further concessions. If they thought that making her a member of the
Wizengamot would stop Hermione’s push for reforms, then they didn’t know her
at all, of course. The smarter members of the Old Families, at least, were
doing this to curry favour with her, in order to make the best deal possible
for them once the Wizengamot bowed to the — in his opinion — inevitable. He
didn’t think they had a great chance of success, but a vote was a vote.
that a number of Wizengamot members had supported his proposal in the hope
that this would placate the Resistance and the other muggleborns and forestall
further concessions. If they thought that making her a member of the
Wizengamot would stop Hermione’s push for reforms, then they didn’t know her
at all, of course. The smarter members of the Old Families, at least, were
doing this to curry favour with her, in order to make the best deal possible
for them once the Wizengamot bowed to the — in his opinion — inevitable. He
didn’t think they had a great chance of success, but a vote was a vote.
And vote by vote, they’d change Britain — once they had weathered this latest
crisis.
crisis.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 10th, 1997**
Amelia Bones forced herself to keep smiling, even though she didn’t want to.
She didn’t like having to wait in the Atrium for the arrival of the ICW
delegation. Not only was it wasting time, but it made her feel as if she was
their subordinate. But if she were not present when the delegation stepped
through the International Floo connection, it would be a diplomatic faux pas.
It would feel good, though.
She didn’t like having to wait in the Atrium for the arrival of the ICW
delegation. Not only was it wasting time, but it made her feel as if she was
their subordinate. But if she were not present when the delegation stepped
through the International Floo connection, it would be a diplomatic faux pas.
It would feel good, though.
She wasn’t the only one waiting, of course — Pius was there as well, as were
the other Department Heads. And Chief Warlock Doge, with Black, Malfoy, and
Runcorn. The tension between those four made her relationship with Pius look
downright cordial. At least she was reasonably certain that they wouldn’t
curse each other in public.
the other Department Heads. And Chief Warlock Doge, with Black, Malfoy, and
Runcorn. The tension between those four made her relationship with Pius look
downright cordial. At least she was reasonably certain that they wouldn’t
curse each other in public.
Dawlish was inspecting the honour guard of Hit-Wizards lined up along the
carpet leading to the fireplace. For appearance’s sake, they looked impressive
enough in their grey robes, but their presence meant that Dawlish had lost all
of his reserves. Since a number of Aurors had to provide security for — and
surveillance of — the delegation, that left most of Britain bare of the
Ministry’s presence. That wasn’t impressive at all, and Amelia didn’t doubt
that the delegation would be aware of that in short order.
carpet leading to the fireplace. For appearance’s sake, they looked impressive
enough in their grey robes, but their presence meant that Dawlish had lost all
of his reserves. Since a number of Aurors had to provide security for — and
surveillance of — the delegation, that left most of Britain bare of the
Ministry’s presence. That wasn’t impressive at all, and Amelia didn’t doubt
that the delegation would be aware of that in short order.
She gazed at the gathered Ministry employees who had come to watch the whole
thing. Another drain on the Ministry’s resources, from both the time lost at
work and the Aurors needed to keep an eye on the crowd. She caught herself
frowning at the effort the Ministry had to make for this farce, and forced
herself to smile again. She had to keep up appearances as well, after all, and
the foreign reporters present were not beholden to the Ministry, unlike those
from the Daily Prophet.
thing. Another drain on the Ministry’s resources, from both the time lost at
work and the Aurors needed to keep an eye on the crowd. She caught herself
frowning at the effort the Ministry had to make for this farce, and forced
herself to smile again. She had to keep up appearances as well, after all, and
the foreign reporters present were not beholden to the Ministry, unlike those
from the Daily Prophet.
Finally, the fireplace lit up, and the delegation started to arrive. Two
French Gendarmes Magiques were first — Amelia immediately recognised their
robes — and took up positions next to the fireplace. She narrowed her eyes. If
the Ministry couldn’t guarantee the delegation’s safety, then two more wands
wouldn’t make a difference. So, it was a planned affront, if a small one.
French Gendarmes Magiques were first — Amelia immediately recognised their
robes — and took up positions next to the fireplace. She narrowed her eyes. If
the Ministry couldn’t guarantee the delegation’s safety, then two more wands
wouldn’t make a difference. So, it was a planned affront, if a small one.
The next person to step out of the fireplace was Sabine Beaumont, the French
delegate. The witch was wearing robes meant for someone half her age, Amelia
thought, but then, according to rumour, she was the mistress of the Duc
d’Orléans. Or had been. She certainly had his trust, and she was known to be
quite ambitious. Two ‘assistants’ followed her — probably spies.
delegate. The witch was wearing robes meant for someone half her age, Amelia
thought, but then, according to rumour, she was the mistress of the Duc
d’Orléans. Or had been. She certainly had his trust, and she was known to be
quite ambitious. Two ‘assistants’ followed her — probably spies.
Then the Prussian delegate arrived, Herbert Steiner, cousin of the Chancellor,
followed by four assistants of his own. He was a heavyset wizard in his
seventies and wore the robes of the Prussian Feldjäger — another statement,
Amelia thought. The man had been quite the fighter during the purges his
cousin had launched following Grindelwald’s defeat. Four more Feldjäger
followed him.
followed by four assistants of his own. He was a heavyset wizard in his
seventies and wore the robes of the Prussian Feldjäger — another statement,
Amelia thought. The man had been quite the fighter during the purges his
cousin had launched following Grindelwald’s defeat. Four more Feldjäger
followed him.
And then the last delegate stepped through the fireplace, and Amelia tensed
up. John Reid was a houngan, rail-thin, and over a hundred years old — no one
in Britain seemed to know his exact age. At least his four ‘assistants’ or
guards didn’t look like zombies — Amelia wasn’t certain the Thief’s Downfall
would remove that particular enchantment.
up. John Reid was a houngan, rail-thin, and over a hundred years old — no one
in Britain seemed to know his exact age. At least his four ‘assistants’ or
guards didn’t look like zombies — Amelia wasn’t certain the Thief’s Downfall
would remove that particular enchantment.
She wasn’t the only one eyeing the houngan with suspicion, of course — even
the other two delegates looked as if they wanted to keep their distance. But
protocol was clear — officially, they arrived together. Amelia stepped
forward. “Welcome to Britain,” she said, bowing, “we’re honoured to host a
delegation from the International Confederation of Wizards.” The words were a
lie, of course, as was her smile.
the other two delegates looked as if they wanted to keep their distance. But
protocol was clear — officially, they arrived together. Amelia stepped
forward. “Welcome to Britain,” she said, bowing, “we’re honoured to host a
delegation from the International Confederation of Wizards.” The words were a
lie, of course, as was her smile.
And the smiles of the three delegates. Beaumont bowed — a shade less deeply
than she had, Amelia noticed — and said: “We’re honoured to be here.” A snap
of her fingers had one of her assistants hand over their credentials.
than she had, Amelia noticed — and said: “We’re honoured to be here.” A snap
of her fingers had one of her assistants hand over their credentials.
Amelia passed them to her secretary to check. It was just a formality, of
course. “Mademoiselle Beaumont, Herr Steiner, Mister Reid — may I present
Chief Warlock Doge, and Wizengamot members Runcorn, Black and Malfoy.”
course. “Mademoiselle Beaumont, Herr Steiner, Mister Reid — may I present
Chief Warlock Doge, and Wizengamot members Runcorn, Black and Malfoy.”
“Enchantée, Chief Warlock.” Beaumont raised one perfectly styled eyebrow. “I
am glad to hear that you have finally chosen Dumbledore’s successor.”
am glad to hear that you have finally chosen Dumbledore’s successor.”
Amelia forced herself to keep smiling. If not for the delay caused by the
stubborn refusal of Runcorn and his allies to let the Wizengamot hold an
election, they’d have had a new Chief Warlock weeks ago. And Beaumont was
acting as if she hadn’t been aware of that particular struggle.
stubborn refusal of Runcorn and his allies to let the Wizengamot hold an
election, they’d have had a new Chief Warlock weeks ago. And Beaumont was
acting as if she hadn’t been aware of that particular struggle.
Black smiled widely. “Ah, I can understand your confusion, Mademoiselle.
Coming from a country ruled by a monarch, you would not be familiar with
democratic customs. Choosing the next Chief Warlock is not something that
should be rushed. Our system takes that into account,” he said, his tone of
voice just shy of patronising.
Coming from a country ruled by a monarch, you would not be familiar with
democratic customs. Choosing the next Chief Warlock is not something that
should be rushed. Our system takes that into account,” he said, his tone of
voice just shy of patronising.
Amelia glanced at the wizard. While she appreciated him rebuking the French
witch, she didn’t like him taking the initiative. Not that she could do much
about it — they were supposed to present a united front. She spoke up again.
“I think such details can wait until later.” At her nod, the Hit-Wizards
snapped to attention and raised their wands in front of their faces.
witch, she didn’t like him taking the initiative. Not that she could do much
about it — they were supposed to present a united front. She spoke up again.
“I think such details can wait until later.” At her nod, the Hit-Wizards
snapped to attention and raised their wands in front of their faces.
“They all look quite young,” Steiner remarked as they walked past the
formation.
formation.
“Yes,” Amelia said. “But all of them are veterans of the war.”
Steiner grunted something Amelia didn’t catch. Beaumont smiled with just a
hint of condescension, but didn’t comment. Reid remained expressionless —
until he caught sight of the Head of the Department of Mysteries, at which
point he started glaring. Which, in turn, added to the tension already
present.
hint of condescension, but didn’t comment. Reid remained expressionless —
until he caught sight of the Head of the Department of Mysteries, at which
point he started glaring. Which, in turn, added to the tension already
present.
The inspection wasn’t off to a good start, Amelia thought. At least no one had
cursed anyone.
cursed anyone.
Yet.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 11th, 1997**
Harry Potter was eyeing the Auror guards standing at the entrance of the
Wizengamot Chamber with some suspicion. He didn’t trust them. Not fully. And,
he added, glancing at Hermione and Ron, neither did his best friends. Not that
Harry thought that anyone in the Ministry or the Wizengamot would be so stupid
as to attack them. Not with half the Resistance — the veterans, at least — and
half the Order, among them all of the Weasleys, present.
Wizengamot Chamber with some suspicion. He didn’t trust them. Not fully. And,
he added, glancing at Hermione and Ron, neither did his best friends. Not that
Harry thought that anyone in the Ministry or the Wizengamot would be so stupid
as to attack them. Not with half the Resistance — the veterans, at least — and
half the Order, among them all of the Weasleys, present.
He watched another Ministry employee walk past them so quickly that the wizard
was almost running. That wasn’t a good sign for the proposed reforms. Sighing,
he leaned back. At least their three new seats would mean three more votes for
reforms. More, if people followed Harry’s example. Sirius thought that they
would, even though Harry was of the opinion that killing a Dark Lord was not
exactly proof of a talent for politics. On the other hand, that was how
Dumbledore had become a politician, and the Headmaster had certainly changed
Britain. In Harry’s opinion, he had set a good example for them to follow.
was almost running. That wasn’t a good sign for the proposed reforms. Sighing,
he leaned back. At least their three new seats would mean three more votes for
reforms. More, if people followed Harry’s example. Sirius thought that they
would, even though Harry was of the opinion that killing a Dark Lord was not
exactly proof of a talent for politics. On the other hand, that was how
Dumbledore had become a politician, and the Headmaster had certainly changed
Britain. In Harry’s opinion, he had set a good example for them to follow.
After checking his watch for the sixth time — there were a few more minutes
until the award ceremony would start — he glanced at Hermione. “You know, we
didn’t have to arrive so early…” He grinned.
until the award ceremony would start — he glanced at Hermione. “You know, we
didn’t have to arrive so early…” He grinned.
She narrowed her eyes at him. “It’s better to be early than late.”
“They wouldn’t have started without us,” Ron cut in, “but we couldn’t look bad
in front of the foreigners, could we?”
in front of the foreigners, could we?”
It didn’t seem as if Hermione agreed, but neither did she contradict him. She
did frown, though, looking down at her dress. “It’s the only reason I’m
wearing this gown,” she said.
did frown, though, looking down at her dress. “It’s the only reason I’m
wearing this gown,” she said.
“You look great!” Ron said, smiling widely at her.
“I meant that it’s the best, or rather, the most acceptable compromise between
bowing to pureblood customs and wearing dress robes, and wearing a dress
uniform, even if it’s also a bit sexist,” Hermione said.
bowing to pureblood customs and wearing dress robes, and wearing a dress
uniform, even if it’s also a bit sexist,” Hermione said.
“I wasn’t aware the Resistance had dress uniforms,” Harry cut in. Not that
anyone would have worn them in boot camp.
anyone would have worn them in boot camp.
“We haven’t actually made them, but Justin, Sally-Anne and I have thought
about designs. Patterned after a British Army dress uniform, but in black.”
about designs. Patterned after a British Army dress uniform, but in black.”
Harry wasn’t sure what uniform she meant, but he nodded. Three more minutes
were left until the ceremony started. “It would have sent a message to the
delegation,” he said, “but maybe the wrong kind.”
were left until the ceremony started. “It would have sent a message to the
delegation,” he said, “but maybe the wrong kind.”
“Playing nice with the likes of Malfoy…” Ron scoffed. “They might have asked
for this just so we have to unite against the foreigners, instead of kicking
our Death Eaters out.”
for this just so we have to unite against the foreigners, instead of kicking
our Death Eaters out.”
“I doubt their influence goes that far.” Hermione shook her head. “Sirius said
that the Malfoys were not well-liked in France. Some old feud with the Duc’s
family going back to before the Statute of Secrecy.”
that the Malfoys were not well-liked in France. Some old feud with the Duc’s
family going back to before the Statute of Secrecy.”
“Well, the French have some sense, then,” Ron said. “They did help us against
Voldemort, too.”
Voldemort, too.”
“But they don’t like muggleborns,” Harry added. “Not since Grindelwald.”
“They didn’t like muggleborns before Grindelwald either.” Hermione sniffed.
“But they didn’t fear them until that war.”
“But they didn’t fear them until that war.”
“It’s a bloody mess,” Ron grumbled. “And we have to deal with it.”
Before Harry could agree with his friend, the doors to the Wizengamot Chamber
were opened, and a pompous-looking wizard Harry didn’t recognise walked
towards them.
were opened, and a pompous-looking wizard Harry didn’t recognise walked
towards them.
“Show time,” Harry mumbled, getting up.
“‘Show time’?” Ron whispered.
“Muggle idiom,” Hermione answered. “I’ll explain later.”
“Mister Potter, Mister Weasley, Miss Granger,” the wizard nodded at them,
tensing up just a bit before addressing Hermione, “the award ceremony will
start now. Please follow me.”
tensing up just a bit before addressing Hermione, “the award ceremony will
start now. Please follow me.”
---
“… and you have personally faced the Dark Lord several times in single combat
until you finally defeated him for good in the Battle of Diagon Alley. In
recognition of this extraordinary feat, Wizarding Britain awards you the Order
of Merlin, First Class!”
until you finally defeated him for good in the Battle of Diagon Alley. In
recognition of this extraordinary feat, Wizarding Britain awards you the Order
of Merlin, First Class!”
For being awarded the highest honour of Wizarding Britain, the ceremony was
remarkably short, Ron Weasley thought while he watched Minister Bones pick up
the medal from a floating cushion and drape it around Harry’s neck. But then,
that might just be Bones — he knew that the witch loathed having to award them
anything. As soon as Bones took a step back, the Wizengamot erupted in
applause.
remarkably short, Ron Weasley thought while he watched Minister Bones pick up
the medal from a floating cushion and drape it around Harry’s neck. But then,
that might just be Bones — he knew that the witch loathed having to award them
anything. As soon as Bones took a step back, the Wizengamot erupted in
applause.
“Thank you, Minister.” Harry bowed slightly to her, and, once the noise had
settled down, turned to face the Wizengamot. “I hope I will continue to prove
myself worthy of this honour. Albus Dumbledore taught me to do what’s right,
not what’s easy, and I intend to heed those words in the future.”
settled down, turned to face the Wizengamot. “I hope I will continue to prove
myself worthy of this honour. Albus Dumbledore taught me to do what’s right,
not what’s easy, and I intend to heed those words in the future.”
More applause — though not as enthusiastic as before — followed while Harry
took a few steps back to stand next to Ron and Hermione. Then Ron saw Bones
turn towards him. He stiffened and raised his chin slightly. This was it.
took a few steps back to stand next to Ron and Hermione. Then Ron saw Bones
turn towards him. He stiffened and raised his chin slightly. This was it.
“Mister Ronald Weasley. You have been instrumental in the war against the Dark
Lord, several times facing multiple Death Eaters and the Dark Lord himself, at
the side of Harry Potter, at the risk of your own life. In recognition of
this, Wizarding Britain awards you the Order of Merlin, First Class!”
Lord, several times facing multiple Death Eaters and the Dark Lord himself, at
the side of Harry Potter, at the risk of your own life. In recognition of
this, Wizarding Britain awards you the Order of Merlin, First Class!”
Ron bowed his head slightly so the witch could reach his neck more easily. To
his surprise, he felt rather unmoved. A year and a half ago, he would have
felt elated. The first Weasley ever to receive such an honour. The first
Prewett in generations. But it was just politics — he wasn’t really being
honoured, he was being used to impress the delegation from the ICW. The
Wizengamot might be applauding him, but outside his family, and Sirius’s
faction, they didn’t mean it.
his surprise, he felt rather unmoved. A year and a half ago, he would have
felt elated. The first Weasley ever to receive such an honour. The first
Prewett in generations. But it was just politics — he wasn’t really being
honoured, he was being used to impress the delegation from the ICW. The
Wizengamot might be applauding him, but outside his family, and Sirius’s
faction, they didn’t mean it.
Nevertheless, he smiled at the witch. “Thank you, Minister.” Turning to the
Wizengamot, he smiled at his family, sitting in the wings, and bowed once
more. “I can but repeat what Harry said before me: I intend to prove myself
worthy of his honor, and of the trust Albus Dumbledore put in us.”
Wizengamot, he smiled at his family, sitting in the wings, and bowed once
more. “I can but repeat what Harry said before me: I intend to prove myself
worthy of his honor, and of the trust Albus Dumbledore put in us.”
He wasn’t certain, but he thought Bones twitched when he mentioned the
Headmaster. His smile grew a bit while he retook his old spot, and Hermione
stepped forward. He glanced at the rows in the audience where the delegation
was seated, and saw that all of them were staring intently at his friend.
Headmaster. His smile grew a bit while he retook his old spot, and Hermione
stepped forward. He glanced at the rows in the audience where the delegation
was seated, and saw that all of them were staring intently at his friend.
Bones’s smile grew thinner as she picked up the last medal from the cushion.
“Miss Hermione Granger. You have fought bravely against the followers of the
Dark Lord, those who openly fought for him as well as those who supported him
in secret. Without your efforts, the war might have been lost before the Dark
Lord fell to Harry Potter. For your deeds, Wizarding Britain awards you Order
of Merlin, First Class.”
“Miss Hermione Granger. You have fought bravely against the followers of the
Dark Lord, those who openly fought for him as well as those who supported him
in secret. Without your efforts, the war might have been lost before the Dark
Lord fell to Harry Potter. For your deeds, Wizarding Britain awards you Order
of Merlin, First Class.”
The applause was noticeably less loud this time, but Hermione beamed as the
medal was hung around her neck. “Thank you, Minister. I accept this honour for
all the brave muggleborns who joined the Resistance, and fought for their
rights, and the rights of every witch and wizard in Britain. Many of them died
in the war, but rest assured that many more stand ready to take their place,
should this be needed.”
medal was hung around her neck. “Thank you, Minister. I accept this honour for
all the brave muggleborns who joined the Resistance, and fought for their
rights, and the rights of every witch and wizard in Britain. Many of them died
in the war, but rest assured that many more stand ready to take their place,
should this be needed.”
Bones’s expression reminded Ron of Snape’s, back when they had snatched the
House Cup from Slytherin right at the Leaving Feast. His own smile grew in
response. They might have to put on an act, but that didn’t mean that they
couldn’t remind the Wizengamot just why they were here.
House Cup from Slytherin right at the Leaving Feast. His own smile grew in
response. They might have to put on an act, but that didn’t mean that they
couldn’t remind the Wizengamot just why they were here.
---
Muggles and wizards were not that different, Hermione Granger thought while
looking around the area of the Atrium that had been cordoned off for the
reception following the award ceremony. Self-important politicians were
mingling, trading barbed remarks and veiled insults while wearing false
smiles. Like hers right now, as she nodded at Callista Shacklebolt, one of the
less staunch allies of Sirius in the Wizengamot, despite her being related to
the late Kingsley Shacklebolt.
looking around the area of the Atrium that had been cordoned off for the
reception following the award ceremony. Self-important politicians were
mingling, trading barbed remarks and veiled insults while wearing false
smiles. Like hers right now, as she nodded at Callista Shacklebolt, one of the
less staunch allies of Sirius in the Wizengamot, despite her being related to
the late Kingsley Shacklebolt.
“I wish they’d start serving the food,” Ron muttered next to her, when the old
witch had left them. “It’s been hours since lunch.”
witch had left them. “It’s been hours since lunch.”
She raised her eyebrows. “You don’t plan to actually eat anything here, do
you?” She did not think an attempt to poison them would be likely, but it was
better to be safe than sorry.
you?” She did not think an attempt to poison them would be likely, but it was
better to be safe than sorry.
“Of course not!” he said. ‘Moody’s ghost would come back to haunt me for that!
But if I start eating the food we brought with us before dinner is served,
everyone will know just how much trust there is between us and the Ministry.’
Ron snorted. “At least we’ll be eating Mum’s cooking, not the Ministry’s. Even
using their recipes, it’ll be much better.”
But if I start eating the food we brought with us before dinner is served,
everyone will know just how much trust there is between us and the Ministry.’
Ron snorted. “At least we’ll be eating Mum’s cooking, not the Ministry’s. Even
using their recipes, it’ll be much better.”
Hermione nodded. After the camp food, Molly’s cooking seemed to taste twice as
good. Briefly, she wondered if she’d ever trust the food and drink at such a
reception — wizards and witches had long memories. Maybe she should work on a
subtle way to detect poison.
good. Briefly, she wondered if she’d ever trust the food and drink at such a
reception — wizards and witches had long memories. Maybe she should work on a
subtle way to detect poison.
“Harry’s still getting swamped,” Ron remarked, nodding towards the gaggle of
wizards and witches surrounding their friend and his godfather.
wizards and witches surrounding their friend and his godfather.
“He is the Boy-Who-Lived,” she said. “Vanquisher of Voldemort.” Not that many
used that title — people still feared to say the Dark Lord’s name.
used that title — people still feared to say the Dark Lord’s name.
“Should we head over to him and drive the crowd away with the power of the
Purebloods’ Boggart?” Ron was grinning at her.
Purebloods’ Boggart?” Ron was grinning at her.
She scowled at him — she didn’t like that nickname. Not at all. It made her
remember that lesson in their third year, when she had run from a Boggart.
That failure still vexed her — and that she had had such a silly fear was
doubly embarrassing.
remember that lesson in their third year, when she had run from a Boggart.
That failure still vexed her — and that she had had such a silly fear was
doubly embarrassing.
Before she could voice her displeasure, though, his smile grew slightly
vacant. “Heads up! French witch coming towards us.”
vacant. “Heads up! French witch coming towards us.”
Hermione turned slightly, and saw that Beaumont was walking towards them. The
delegate was wearing quite daring robes, showing quite a bit more skin than
Hermione’s own gown.
delegate was wearing quite daring robes, showing quite a bit more skin than
Hermione’s own gown.
“Miss Granger, Mister Weasley.” The French witch smiled widely and nodded at
them. One of her bodyguards was standing nearby, but too far away to be
included in the conversation, even though he’d certainly hear every word.
them. One of her bodyguards was standing nearby, but too far away to be
included in the conversation, even though he’d certainly hear every word.
“Miss Beaumont.” Hermione briefly inclined her head. Ron followed her example.
The other witch didn’t react to the slight snub — or, to be precise, the
refusal to acknowledge her supposed higher status as a pureblood. “Your
reputation precedes you, Miss Granger. While Mister Weasley is known as the
stalwart friend of the Boy-Who-Lived, it is said that you parted ways with him
to build your own organisation.” Unlike Fleur, Beaumont had a very faint
accent, Hermione noted.
refusal to acknowledge her supposed higher status as a pureblood. “Your
reputation precedes you, Miss Granger. While Mister Weasley is known as the
stalwart friend of the Boy-Who-Lived, it is said that you parted ways with him
to build your own organisation.” Unlike Fleur, Beaumont had a very faint
accent, Hermione noted.
“That is not exactly true. ‘Parting ways’ implies that it happened
voluntarily,” Hermione said. “I was expelled from Hogwarts by bigoted laws, it
wasn’t my choice to leave Harry and Ron.”
voluntarily,” Hermione said. “I was expelled from Hogwarts by bigoted laws, it
wasn’t my choice to leave Harry and Ron.”
“I doubt any witch would have chosen to leave such brave young wizards,”
Beaumont said. “But you were not left alone, were you? You formed the
Resistance.”
Beaumont said. “But you were not left alone, were you? You formed the
Resistance.”
Hermione couldn’t tell if the older witch was insinuating that the Resistance
had been more than friends and comrades with her remark. “Faced with mortal
danger, and bereft of help from others, it was only natural that we banded
together.” She almost said that she followed French examples when forming the
Resistance, but that could have been mistaken for a threat.
had been more than friends and comrades with her remark. “Faced with mortal
danger, and bereft of help from others, it was only natural that we banded
together.” She almost said that she followed French examples when forming the
Resistance, but that could have been mistaken for a threat.
“You are too modest, Miss Granger. No one achieves what you did by simply
reacting to danger.” Her smile never lost its veneer of politeness even while
her words and tone grew a bit sharper. “You brought the Ministry to its knees,
after all, with a small group of muggleborns. That is a cause for concern for
some parties.”
reacting to danger.” Her smile never lost its veneer of politeness even while
her words and tone grew a bit sharper. “You brought the Ministry to its knees,
after all, with a small group of muggleborns. That is a cause for concern for
some parties.”
Hermione acted as if she was puzzled. “Really? I’m surprised to hear that. As
far as I know, there are but a few Death Eaters left, and I can’t think of
anyone else who’d have a reason to be concerned about the Resistance; the war
is over, after all, and I doubt anyone is eager to start another one. We’re at
peace.”
far as I know, there are but a few Death Eaters left, and I can’t think of
anyone else who’d have a reason to be concerned about the Resistance; the war
is over, after all, and I doubt anyone is eager to start another one. We’re at
peace.”
“Nominally. Weren’t there riots in the streets?”
Hermione plastered a fake smile on her face, hiding her growing annoyance. “A
few holdouts launched attacks — nuisances, really, compared to the war’s
battles.”
few holdouts launched attacks — nuisances, really, compared to the war’s
battles.”
Ron nodded. “Between the veterans of the war and the new recruits, we could
handle Voldemort at the peak of his strength right now. The real challenge is
the restoration of the country. My father’s working hard to restore the
Ministry — we have the essential services covered, of course, especially the
Obliviators, who were not affected by the war at all, but there are a growing
number of new employees who need to be instructed and guided.”
handle Voldemort at the peak of his strength right now. The real challenge is
the restoration of the country. My father’s working hard to restore the
Ministry — we have the essential services covered, of course, especially the
Obliviators, who were not affected by the war at all, but there are a growing
number of new employees who need to be instructed and guided.”
Hermione couldn’t tell if the French delegate believed Ron’s words — they were
in a far weaker position than he insinuated, and they would only be able to
defeat Voldemort if Harry had his special connection still — but Beaumont
nodded. “I see. You say you will be focused inwards, then, for the foreseeable
future? Britain, that is,” she asked.
in a far weaker position than he insinuated, and they would only be able to
defeat Voldemort if Harry had his special connection still — but Beaumont
nodded. “I see. You say you will be focused inwards, then, for the foreseeable
future? Britain, that is,” she asked.
“Yes,” Hermione said. “It will take some time to remove the last remains of
Voldemort’s influence, and rebuild Britain into a country of which every one
of its citizens can be proud.”
Voldemort’s influence, and rebuild Britain into a country of which every one
of its citizens can be proud.”
“As Dumbledore envisioned,” Ron added.
“Ah. He was your mentor, wasn’t he?”
Ron nodded. “He trained Harry and me, and he asked all three of us to continue
his work.”
his work.”
“We’ll do our best to follow in his footsteps,” Hermione added, “to prove that
his trust in us wasn’t misplaced.” She didn’t like invoking the Headmaster
this much, but the goal of this whole ceremony and reception was to impress on
the ICW delegation how much of a mistake it would be to intervene.
his trust in us wasn’t misplaced.” She didn’t like invoking the Headmaster
this much, but the goal of this whole ceremony and reception was to impress on
the ICW delegation how much of a mistake it would be to intervene.
“Ah, Dumbledore, one of the greatest wizards who ever lived! His death is the
loss of the entire Magical World. I doubt we will see another one like him in
our lifetimes,” Beaumont said, with a slightly theatrical sigh.
loss of the entire Magical World. I doubt we will see another one like him in
our lifetimes,” Beaumont said, with a slightly theatrical sigh.
“I wouldn’t be that certain,” Hermione said, looking pointedly at Harry.
The French witch’s expression grew slightly condescending. “The Boy-Who-Lived
is a talented wizard, we saw that at the Triwizard Tournament, but Dumbledore
had decades of experience. Wisdom comes with age, after all.”
is a talented wizard, we saw that at the Triwizard Tournament, but Dumbledore
had decades of experience. Wisdom comes with age, after all.”
“Well,” Ron drawled, “Harry defeated Voldemort, a wizard who could stand up to
Dumbledore and his decades of experience. He might not be as experienced as
Dumbledore was, but I think we all have proven that that doesn’t matter too
much in a war, does it?”
Dumbledore and his decades of experience. He might not be as experienced as
Dumbledore was, but I think we all have proven that that doesn’t matter too
much in a war, does it?”
“As the muggle wars have demonstrated, innovation often trumps experience in a
violent conflict,” Hermione added. ‘Although we all have gained enough
experience to know that we don’t want another war. But,’ she said, baring her
teeth for a moment, “should anyone start a war, we will finish it.”
violent conflict,” Hermione added. ‘Although we all have gained enough
experience to know that we don’t want another war. But,’ she said, baring her
teeth for a moment, “should anyone start a war, we will finish it.”
Beaumont was too experienced as a diplomat and courtier to show much of a
reaction, but Hermione thought that they had rattled the witch somewhat. If
they were lucky, enough to make her stop trying to meddle in Britain.
reaction, but Hermione thought that they had rattled the witch somewhat. If
they were lucky, enough to make her stop trying to meddle in Britain.
---
Awarding a mass-murderer an Order of Merlin, First Class! More than an hour
after that sham of a ceremony where she had been forced to decorate that witch
herself, Amelia Bones was still furious. And she couldn’t even show, much less
vent, her anger — she had to keep smiling politely at sycophants, traitors and
criminals! And at the foreigners who were the reason for her situation. Like
Steiner, who was currently talking to her. At least the wizard was a former
Feldjäger of Magical Prussia, so they had a number of things in common.
after that sham of a ceremony where she had been forced to decorate that witch
herself, Amelia Bones was still furious. And she couldn’t even show, much less
vent, her anger — she had to keep smiling politely at sycophants, traitors and
criminals! And at the foreigners who were the reason for her situation. Like
Steiner, who was currently talking to her. At least the wizard was a former
Feldjäger of Magical Prussia, so they had a number of things in common.
“My compliments to the cook,” the Prussian said, holding up a canapé.
“Thank you, I will pass them on.” Amelia had no intention of mentioning that
the food had been prepared by elves on loan from Hogwarts. The more capable
the delegation believed that Britain was, in all areas, the better. Maybe it
would even be worth rewarding that… muggleborn and her traitorous friends.
the food had been prepared by elves on loan from Hogwarts. The more capable
the delegation believed that Britain was, in all areas, the better. Maybe it
would even be worth rewarding that… muggleborn and her traitorous friends.
“I was impressed by the youth of Britain’s latest heroes,” Steiner went on.
“Barely out of school, and yet able to win the bloodiest war in Europe since
Grindelwald.”
“Barely out of school, and yet able to win the bloodiest war in Europe since
Grindelwald.”
Not counting the ongoing troubles in the Balkans, Amelia thought. Out loud,
she said, “He’s the Boy-Who-Lived,” picking up a canapé herself. “His whole
life has been exceptional.”
she said, “He’s the Boy-Who-Lived,” picking up a canapé herself. “His whole
life has been exceptional.”
“I would have dismissed most of what I heard about him as exaggerations,”
Steiner said, “or luck. But you do not defeat Voldemort through luck, do you?”
Steiner said, “or luck. But you do not defeat Voldemort through luck, do you?”
And there was the attempt to gather information! Amelia kept smiling
pleasantly, even though she was more than annoyed at the fact that Steiner
thought she was so naïve as to fall for that. “He was trained by Dumbledore
himself to face and defeat the Dark Lord. A task he completed as planned.”
pleasantly, even though she was more than annoyed at the fact that Steiner
thought she was so naïve as to fall for that. “He was trained by Dumbledore
himself to face and defeat the Dark Lord. A task he completed as planned.”
“Indeed! What a duel it must have been — akin to Grindelwald’s legendary
defeat! I assume that there isn’t a memory available to be visited in a
Pensieve?”
defeat! I assume that there isn’t a memory available to be visited in a
Pensieve?”
“Mister Potter hasn’t provided us with one, and we respect his decision and
privacy.” Not that the Boy-Who-Lived would share Dumbledore’s secrets with
them, Amelia thought. In that, he might be the Headmaster’s successor indeed.
privacy.” Not that the Boy-Who-Lived would share Dumbledore’s secrets with
them, Amelia thought. In that, he might be the Headmaster’s successor indeed.
“A shame. But maybe he’ll change his opinion once he realises just how
important this duel was — the memory of such events should be preserved for
posterity, lest history repeats itself.” Steiner looked as if he believed his
own drivel.
important this duel was — the memory of such events should be preserved for
posterity, lest history repeats itself.” Steiner looked as if he believed his
own drivel.
“Dumbledore never shared his memory of his duel with Grindelwald, either, so I
fear the historical precedent has been set,” Amelia said. “It will only add to
the myth, I think.”
fear the historical precedent has been set,” Amelia said. “It will only add to
the myth, I think.”
Steiner sighed. “Alas, you may be correct. I must confess that I am very
curious about the battles fought in this war. I’ve heard about very
unconventional tactics — by the Muggleborns, I believe.”
curious about the battles fought in this war. I’ve heard about very
unconventional tactics — by the Muggleborns, I believe.”
Refraining from grinding her teeth, she nodded. “Miss Granger has proven to be
very innovative, and very effective in the war.” She put the canapé down;
praising that criminal made her lose her appetite.
very innovative, and very effective in the war.” She put the canapé down;
praising that criminal made her lose her appetite.
“She worked closely with the Boy-Who-Lived and Dumbledore’s Order, but I heard
there were some issues with the Ministry.”
there were some issues with the Ministry.”
She narrowed her eyes before she could help it. “Issues related to traitors
within the Ministry’s ranks. Who have since been purged. Dumbledore himself
ensured that there aren’t any such issues left.”
within the Ministry’s ranks. Who have since been purged. Dumbledore himself
ensured that there aren’t any such issues left.”
And damn the man for sacrificing justice for convenience!, she thought while
Steiner wound up his next probing question.
Steiner wound up his next probing question.
---
“It was a mistake to attend this reception,” Tracey whispered behind the flute
of champagne she was raising to her lips.
of champagne she was raising to her lips.
Daphne Greengrass rolled her eyes. “It would have been an even bigger mistake
not to attend, after Black asked us to.”
not to attend, after Black asked us to.”
Tracey scoffed. “They look as if they were about to curse us.”
There was no need to ask who she meant — the Resistance members present were
openly glaring at them. But not even mudbloods would attack them in the middle
of the Ministry, at a reception to honour their leader. “They won’t,” Daphne
said.
openly glaring at them. But not even mudbloods would attack them in the middle
of the Ministry, at a reception to honour their leader. “They won’t,” Daphne
said.
“There’s just one person here people avoid more than us, and that’s the
houngan,” Tracey said.
houngan,” Tracey said.
As if to prove her friend wrong, two wizards approached them right then —
Augustus Malfoy and Philius Runcorn. “There you are!” Runcorn said, as if they
had been hiding.
Augustus Malfoy and Philius Runcorn. “There you are!” Runcorn said, as if they
had been hiding.
Malfoy was more polite. “Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis.” He bowed to them.
“Mister Runcorn, Mister Malfoy.” Long habit made it easy for Daphne to smile
at the two men.
at the two men.
“I’m happy to see you return to your rightful place,” Runcorn went on. ‘Even
in the Wizengamot too many fine purebloods seem scared of the rabble in the
streets.’ The old wizard shook his head. “And that leads to such travesties as
today’s. At least you showed the spirit and conviction of an Old Family and
voted against this farce. Your parents would be proud of you!”
in the Wizengamot too many fine purebloods seem scared of the rabble in the
streets.’ The old wizard shook his head. “And that leads to such travesties as
today’s. At least you showed the spirit and conviction of an Old Family and
voted against this farce. Your parents would be proud of you!”
They had had their proxies vote, but Daphne wasn’t about to correct the man.
Nor would she tell him that Black had all but ordered them to. She nodded, and
had no trouble faking the small tremble in her voice — thinking of her
murdered parents was still painful. “Thank you, Mister Runcorn.”
Nor would she tell him that Black had all but ordered them to. She nodded, and
had no trouble faking the small tremble in her voice — thinking of her
murdered parents was still painful. “Thank you, Mister Runcorn.”
Tracey, being a little less diplomatic, mumbled her agreement.
While the old wizard beamed at them, Malfoy spoke up. “It is indeed a pleasure
to see young wizards and witches stand up for what is right, even though it
might currently be unpopular. In these troubled times those among us who still
hold on to our heritage and traditions need to work together.”
to see young wizards and witches stand up for what is right, even though it
might currently be unpopular. In these troubled times those among us who still
hold on to our heritage and traditions need to work together.”
Daphne kept smiling, even though she felt as if her stomach was turning to
lead. This was supposed to be a simple ploy to gain Theo’s trust. But judging
by the look she caught from Black, who was standing next to Potter, some
distance apart from them, this whole affair had just grown past catching a
stupid teenager. And so far more dangerous.
lead. This was supposed to be a simple ploy to gain Theo’s trust. But judging
by the look she caught from Black, who was standing next to Potter, some
distance apart from them, this whole affair had just grown past catching a
stupid teenager. And so far more dangerous.
---
“Cheer up! We’re halfway done!” Sirius said under his voice, and Harry Potter
didn’t have to glance at his godfather to know that he was grinning. They had
finally managed to excuse themselves from the people crowding them, for a
moment at least, under the pretext having to meet Doge near the buffet.
didn’t have to glance at his godfather to know that he was grinning. They had
finally managed to excuse themselves from the people crowding them, for a
moment at least, under the pretext having to meet Doge near the buffet.
“I think I have already shaken the hand of every Wizengamot member,” Harry
said in a low voice as they made their way through the crowd. “How many more
can be left?”
said in a low voice as they made their way through the crowd. “How many more
can be left?”
“Enough to keep us busy for a little while longer,” Sirius said.
“You said I wouldn’t have to do much, just vote and maybe give a speech
written for me,” Harry mumbled. “No one said anything about being mobbed like
this.”
written for me,” Harry mumbled. “No one said anything about being mobbed like
this.”
“It’s just for today,” his godfather said. “All the people who voted to grant
you and your friends those awards want to be assured that their help will not
be forgotten.”
you and your friends those awards want to be assured that their help will not
be forgotten.”
“I’ve already forgotten most of their names,” Harry said. And those he hadn’t
forgotten were mostly those he considered enemies.
forgotten were mostly those he considered enemies.
“Fortunately, you have me to keep track of them.”
“You better handle them,” Harry said. “I don’t like this at all.” He grabbed a
tray and loaded it with a few choice snacks, then cast a Switching Spell to
replace them with the food he had brought with him.
tray and loaded it with a few choice snacks, then cast a Switching Spell to
replace them with the food he had brought with him.
“You handled our dear Prussian Feldjäger just fine,” Sirius said, picking up a
few small sandwiches.
few small sandwiches.
“He was just interested in details about the battles.” Harry had been able to
talk about the different battles without revealing anything critical until the
Prussian delegate had to end their talk or he’d have been rude to his hosts.
“Unlike our own wizards and witches.” Whose questions were often far too
personal for his taste. Too many had asked about his temporary absence from
Hogwarts — and his ‘personal, private reasons’ had only seemed to fuel the
rumours going around.
talk about the different battles without revealing anything critical until the
Prussian delegate had to end their talk or he’d have been rude to his hosts.
“Unlike our own wizards and witches.” Whose questions were often far too
personal for his taste. Too many had asked about his temporary absence from
Hogwarts — and his ‘personal, private reasons’ had only seemed to fuel the
rumours going around.
“Let’s grab our own Pureblood Boggart then — she should keep some of the
cowards from bothering us.” Sirius had a waitress refill his glass and nodded
towards Hermione and Ron.
cowards from bothering us.” Sirius had a waitress refill his glass and nodded
towards Hermione and Ron.
“She hates that nickname,” Harry muttered.
“I know. Like Nymphadora hates her name.” Sirius’s grin widened.
Harry shook his head. Sometimes, he wondered if his godfather had a death
wish.
wish.
They reached his friends, and to Harry’s relief, one of the Wizengamot members
who had been about to intercept them actually veered off. Their Boggart was
working, he thought, then corrected himself.
who had been about to intercept them actually veered off. Their Boggart was
working, he thought, then corrected himself.
“Finally finished?” Ron said, one hand holding a bottle of Butterbeer.
“Not yet,” Harry grumbled.
“Ah, you came to Hermione so you could have a short break! Smart move, mate!”
His grin vanished for a moment when Hermione elbowed him in the side.
His grin vanished for a moment when Hermione elbowed him in the side.
“Indeed,” Sirius said, sighing and shaking his head. “My poor godson can
defeat Dark Lords, but a few politicians are too much for him.”
defeat Dark Lords, but a few politicians are too much for him.”
Harry scoffed in response. “You should talk — you complain all the time about
the Wizengamot when we’re at home!”
the Wizengamot when we’re at home!”
“Ah, but the best remedy against that kind of pain is seeing someone suffer
even more!” Sirius’s wide grin suddenly vanished. “Reid’s heading towards us.”
even more!” Sirius’s wide grin suddenly vanished. “Reid’s heading towards us.”
Harry turned around, and he saw the old, thin Jamaican wizard — houngan —
walking towards them, flanked by two of his assistants and possible zombies.
If Hermione was the Wizengamot’s Boggart, then Reid was a Dementor; the crowd
parted in front of him. He didn’t seem to care, though.
walking towards them, flanked by two of his assistants and possible zombies.
If Hermione was the Wizengamot’s Boggart, then Reid was a Dementor; the crowd
parted in front of him. He didn’t seem to care, though.
Ron muttered a curse, and Hermione said something under her breath that Harry
missed.
missed.
“Mister Potter, Miss Granger, Mister Weasley, Mister Black.” The old man
bowed. “A pleasure to finally meet you.” His voice sounded raspy, as if his
vocal cords were about to fail — or had been replaced with something else.
Harry almost shook his head, trying to banish the silly thoughts.
bowed. “A pleasure to finally meet you.” His voice sounded raspy, as if his
vocal cords were about to fail — or had been replaced with something else.
Harry almost shook his head, trying to banish the silly thoughts.
“Likewise, Mister Reid,” Sirius said.
Harry simply bowed his head. His friends followed his example.
“I’ve been following your exploits with a lot of interest,” the houngan
continued. “Especially after the death of your mentor. I was hoping for a
private talk.”
continued. “Especially after the death of your mentor. I was hoping for a
private talk.”
“Oh?” Harry didn’t like that. Not at all. He saw Sirius tense up as well, then
slowly raise his wand and cast a privacy spell.
slowly raise his wand and cast a privacy spell.
“Yes. You are without a doubt aware that Albus Dumbledore died after breaking
into the most sacred part of my home country.”
into the most sacred part of my home country.”
“That is what was claimed. No one actually knows how he died,” Sirius said.
The houngan laughed — an eerie, rattling sound. “Please don’t play the fool,
Mister Black. We all know that Dumbledore broke into the Library of Souls
searching for a cure for that ‘Withering Curse’ the Dark Lord used on so many
of your compatriots.” He sighed. “He was not successful, of course — and it
cost him his life.”
Mister Black. We all know that Dumbledore broke into the Library of Souls
searching for a cure for that ‘Withering Curse’ the Dark Lord used on so many
of your compatriots.” He sighed. “He was not successful, of course — and it
cost him his life.”
“The Dark Lord claimed that it was his curse that struck Dumbledore down,”
Sirius said.
Sirius said.
“A claim likely made to boost the flagging morale of his followers,” Reid
said. ‘But ultimately of no consequence. What matters is that something was
taken from the Library. Something my nation wants back.’ He leaned forward,
and Harry had to struggle not to take a step back, away from that old,
shriveled face. “And as the one wizard who was taught personally by Dumbledore
and defeated the Dark Lord Voldemort, we believe that you can help us.”
said. ‘But ultimately of no consequence. What matters is that something was
taken from the Library. Something my nation wants back.’ He leaned forward,
and Harry had to struggle not to take a step back, away from that old,
shriveled face. “And as the one wizard who was taught personally by Dumbledore
and defeated the Dark Lord Voldemort, we believe that you can help us.”
“And why should I?” Harry spat out before he could control himself. “We’re
busy rebuilding our country, and Jamaica hasn’t exactly been friendly towards
us, last I heard.” Otherwise, Dumbledore wouldn’t have had to break into their
library.
busy rebuilding our country, and Jamaica hasn’t exactly been friendly towards
us, last I heard.” Otherwise, Dumbledore wouldn’t have had to break into their
library.
“And your help could prevent relations between Britain and Jamaica from
deteriorating further.” The houngan smiled, thin, leathery lips revealing
yellowed teeth. “As your friend here said earlier — no one wants another war.”
deteriorating further.” The houngan smiled, thin, leathery lips revealing
yellowed teeth. “As your friend here said earlier — no one wants another war.”
---
**Caribbean Sea, North of Jamaica, March 11th, 1997**
Duchamp’s reputation was well-earned, Augustus Rookwood had to admit after a
few days on her ship — or boat; he wasn’t quite certain what the muggle
contraption was called. She was professional, discreet — she didn’t bother him
at all with questions — and her spells had made the trip through heavy seas
feel as if they had been traveling on a calm lake.
few days on her ship — or boat; he wasn’t quite certain what the muggle
contraption was called. She was professional, discreet — she didn’t bother him
at all with questions — and her spells had made the trip through heavy seas
feel as if they had been traveling on a calm lake.
Although he was getting a bit impatient — they had been cruising close enough
to see the Jamaican coast for two days now, without even trying to make
landfall, as Duchamp called it. And the weather was changing — clouds were
gathering. He didn’t like the look of that; not on a small boat in the middle
of the ocean.
to see the Jamaican coast for two days now, without even trying to make
landfall, as Duchamp called it. And the weather was changing — clouds were
gathering. He didn’t like the look of that; not on a small boat in the middle
of the ocean.
Duchamp, on the other hand, seemed pleased. “Finally!” the witch exclaimed.
“Pardon?” He raised his eyebrows at her.
“Storm’s brewing, at last.” She grinned, then must have noticed his slightly
curious expression. “Ah, you wouldn’t know. The houngans are not like the
other island rulers; they don’t just have wizards patrolling the borders. They
have zombies planted among the muggle patrols, and that allows them to cast a
much tighter net around their island. But with that storm? The muggles will
head to the muggle ports, and even the magical patrols will be hindered. My
ship’s going to hit the beach without anyone the wiser.”
curious expression. “Ah, you wouldn’t know. The houngans are not like the
other island rulers; they don’t just have wizards patrolling the borders. They
have zombies planted among the muggle patrols, and that allows them to cast a
much tighter net around their island. But with that storm? The muggles will
head to the muggle ports, and even the magical patrols will be hindered. My
ship’s going to hit the beach without anyone the wiser.”
He nodded. He wasn’t about to ask if they were safe — she had a reputation as
a skilled smuggler, and if she trusted her spells to keep her ship safe, then
that was good enough for him. Soon he’d be on Jamaica, beyond the reach of the
Department of Mysteries or anyone else who was after him.
a skilled smuggler, and if she trusted her spells to keep her ship safe, then
that was good enough for him. Soon he’d be on Jamaica, beyond the reach of the
Department of Mysteries or anyone else who was after him.
He stuck his hand into his enchanted pocket, caressing the skull inside. Soon
he’d be able to find the help he needed to extract the secrets contained
within.
he’d be able to find the help he needed to extract the secrets contained
within.
Chapter 51: Inspections
=======================
I’d like to thank fredfred and brianna-xox for betaing. Their help has
improved the story a lot.
improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 51: Inspections**
’*At first glance, it seems difficult to understand why the Wizengamot, a
bastion of pureblood traditions and values, would bestow seats on three young
people from such atypical backgrounds — a pureblood from a family well-known
for its abandonment of the customs of the Old Families, a half-blood and a
muggleborn. Some of my colleagues claim that the Wizengamot acted out of fear,
or in an attempt to placate the muggleborns, who were demanding more rights.
This view fails to take into account that the Wizengamot was deeply split over
the issue, and there was no one decisive reason, but rather a multitude of
contributory reasons.*
bastion of pureblood traditions and values, would bestow seats on three young
people from such atypical backgrounds — a pureblood from a family well-known
for its abandonment of the customs of the Old Families, a half-blood and a
muggleborn. Some of my colleagues claim that the Wizengamot acted out of fear,
or in an attempt to placate the muggleborns, who were demanding more rights.
This view fails to take into account that the Wizengamot was deeply split over
the issue, and there was no one decisive reason, but rather a multitude of
contributory reasons.*
*There were those who, afraid for their very lives, truly voted in an attempt
to placate, by any means possible, the muggleborns. Next to them were those
who simply followed tradition as those who had received the highest honour of
Wizarding Britain, an Order of Merlin, First Class, were regarded as having
proven themselves as both able and worthy to also lead Britain — a view more
suited to a time when Order of Merlins were not awarded for political reasons,
of course. Then there were those who followed the lead of Sirius Black —
members of the Order of the Phoenix and old allies of Albus Dumbledore. They
either simply voted as they were told, or came to the conclusion that three
more seats for their faction were a good thing no matter who held them.
Another group was those who naively thought that, as a member of the
Wizengamot, the leader of the Muggleborn Resistance could be controlled or at
least prevented from attacking that very institution. Others acted for more
selfish reasons — they expected the Ministry and Wizengamot to fall, and hoped
to attach themselves to the upcoming rulers in advance. And finally, there
were those who were forced, through blackmail and other means, to support the
proposal — Sirius Black was, in that aspect at least, a true scion of his
family.’*
to placate, by any means possible, the muggleborns. Next to them were those
who simply followed tradition as those who had received the highest honour of
Wizarding Britain, an Order of Merlin, First Class, were regarded as having
proven themselves as both able and worthy to also lead Britain — a view more
suited to a time when Order of Merlins were not awarded for political reasons,
of course. Then there were those who followed the lead of Sirius Black —
members of the Order of the Phoenix and old allies of Albus Dumbledore. They
either simply voted as they were told, or came to the conclusion that three
more seats for their faction were a good thing no matter who held them.
Another group was those who naively thought that, as a member of the
Wizengamot, the leader of the Muggleborn Resistance could be controlled or at
least prevented from attacking that very institution. Others acted for more
selfish reasons — they expected the Ministry and Wizengamot to fall, and hoped
to attach themselves to the upcoming rulers in advance. And finally, there
were those who were forced, through blackmail and other means, to support the
proposal — Sirius Black was, in that aspect at least, a true scion of his
family.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 11th, 1997**
“Did Jamaica really just threaten us with war?”
Harry sounded as if he couldn’t believe it, Ron Weasley thought. That sort of
thing reminded him that his friend had grown up among muggles, and not in
Wizarding Britain.
thing reminded him that his friend had grown up among muggles, and not in
Wizarding Britain.
“Well… a diplomat would call it ‘voicing their concern about a possible
conflict’,” Sirius said, “but, yes, they did.”
conflict’,” Sirius said, “but, yes, they did.”
“Why would they go that far over a theft?” Hermione sounded doubtful too, in
Ron’s opinion. But her expression — lips pressed together, eyes narrowed, a
few wrinkles on her forehead — told him that she was already considering the
implications.
Ron’s opinion. But her expression — lips pressed together, eyes narrowed, a
few wrinkles on her forehead — told him that she was already considering the
implications.
Sirius snorted. “Given the relations between Jamaica and us, it doesn’t take
much to start a war. We’ve had half a dozen wars with that island, not
counting the war that won them their independence in 1752. It took a while for
our ancestors to accept that the houngans hadn’t just beaten the British
garrison there because most of our forces were tied up in a Goblin Rebellion
at the time, and Jamaica hasn’t ever forgotten our attempts to reconquer it.
It wasn’t until Dumbledore taught the houngans a lesson in the early 60s that
relations with Jamaica improved somewhat. They knew that Britain could beat
them thanks to Dumbledore, and so they played nice with the rest of the
Magical World. And with him gone…” The animagus shrugged.
much to start a war. We’ve had half a dozen wars with that island, not
counting the war that won them their independence in 1752. It took a while for
our ancestors to accept that the houngans hadn’t just beaten the British
garrison there because most of our forces were tied up in a Goblin Rebellion
at the time, and Jamaica hasn’t ever forgotten our attempts to reconquer it.
It wasn’t until Dumbledore taught the houngans a lesson in the early 60s that
relations with Jamaica improved somewhat. They knew that Britain could beat
them thanks to Dumbledore, and so they played nice with the rest of the
Magical World. And with him gone…” The animagus shrugged.
“Wouldn’t the fact that Britain could have beaten them with Dumbledore, yet
didn’t start a war, have shown the houngans that Britain has no intention of
attacking them again?” Harry asked.
didn’t start a war, have shown the houngans that Britain has no intention of
attacking them again?” Harry asked.
“Not really,” Sirius answered. “They probably assumed that this was all
Dumbledore’s doing.”
Dumbledore’s doing.”
“They wouldn’t be that wrong,” Ron cut in. Houngans were evil, everyone knew
that. “If not for the Headmaster, they’d have continued kidnapping and
enslaving people. Which they might pick up again.”
that. “If not for the Headmaster, they’d have continued kidnapping and
enslaving people. Which they might pick up again.”
Sirius nodded. “While I’d not go as far as to claim that all houngans are evil
— unlike Slytherins — there are more than a few reasons why they are pariahs
in the Magical World. Well, in the parts of the Magical World that don’t
support slavery.”
— unlike Slytherins — there are more than a few reasons why they are pariahs
in the Magical World. Well, in the parts of the Magical World that don’t
support slavery.”
“But… the houngans are descendants of the Maroons, escaped slaves,” Hermione
said. “Did they go and become slavers themselves after they won their
independence?”
said. “Did they go and become slavers themselves after they won their
independence?”
“Yes,” Sirius replied.
Ron nodded. “They went after muggles and muggleborns, mainly. Or so Dad said.
Of course, that ended after Dumbledore became the Supreme Mugwump.”
Of course, that ended after Dumbledore became the Supreme Mugwump.”
Hermione muttered something about ‘bloody hypocrites’. Ron pondered if he
should call her on her language, but thought better of it.
should call her on her language, but thought better of it.
“Let’s focus on the threat, please,” Harry said. “The delegate mentioned a
‘Library of Souls’, from which something was stolen.”
‘Library of Souls’, from which something was stolen.”
“Careful with that name,” Sirius said. “The houngans killed to keep that a
secret.”
secret.”
“What?” Ron, Harry and Hermione asked in unison.
“Dumbledore left me some information. The Library of Souls is considered the
houngans’ most sacred secret. It contains the secrets of their ancestors and
predecessors — spells, rituals, dark knowledge of all kinds.” Sirius looked
grim. “Do not tell anyone about this. Don’t even mention the name.”
houngans’ most sacred secret. It contains the secrets of their ancestors and
predecessors — spells, rituals, dark knowledge of all kinds.” Sirius looked
grim. “Do not tell anyone about this. Don’t even mention the name.”
Ron hissed through his teeth. That sounded very serious. “Why did he tell us
the name then?”
the name then?”
Sirius cleared his throat. “I fear that our attempt to portray Harry — and by
extension you two as well — as Dumbledore’s heir has had some unintended
consequences. Since Dumbledore knew about their secret, they probably assume
that he told you as well.”
extension you two as well — as Dumbledore’s heir has had some unintended
consequences. Since Dumbledore knew about their secret, they probably assume
that he told you as well.”
“Great.” Harry rubbed his forehead. “I’d like to get it on record that I
wasn’t the one who proposed that plan.”
wasn’t the one who proposed that plan.”
“Well, since they already think we know about it… what exactly is it, and what
was stolen?” Ron asked. He saw Hermione perk up as well.
was stolen?” Ron asked. He saw Hermione perk up as well.
“According to Dumbledore, it’s a cave in the middle of Jamaica, where the
skulls of dead houngans, containing all their knowledge, are stored.”
skulls of dead houngans, containing all their knowledge, are stored.”
Ron winced. That sounded like the Dark Arts. Necromancy. But then — what else
could you expect from wizards who created zombies?
could you expect from wizards who created zombies?
“Do you mean their minds, like ghosts, or are their souls literally bound
there?”
there?”
Trust Hermione to think of an even worse possibility, Ron thought.
“I don’t know,” Sirius said. “Since the houngans apparently choose this, I
wouldn’t think they allowed their souls to be bound for eternity, but…” he
shrugged.
wouldn’t think they allowed their souls to be bound for eternity, but…” he
shrugged.
“I’ve heard that a rumour that they sacrifice their souls for power,” Ron
said. “And we know that some dark wizards risk spending eternity between life
and the afterlife when they create a Horcrux.” He blinked. What if…
said. “And we know that some dark wizards risk spending eternity between life
and the afterlife when they create a Horcrux.” He blinked. What if…
“Dear Lord!” Hermione gasped. “What if it is literally a library of souls,
able to possess people? We know Horcruxes can do that, and voodoo has a
tradition of the faithful letting themselves be possessed…”
able to possess people? We know Horcruxes can do that, and voodoo has a
tradition of the faithful letting themselves be possessed…”
Ron felt like vomiting. If that was true…
“We shouldn’t get too far ahead of ourselves,” Sirius said — though he looked
queasy as well, Ron noticed. “But I think it’s very clear that we cannot treat
this lightly. It doesn’t matter if there’s a Horcrux with the soul of a
houngan missing, or just a skull containing their dark knowledge; either way,
it is not something we can leave in the hands of a Death Eater — especially
not someone like Rookwood.”
queasy as well, Ron noticed. “But I think it’s very clear that we cannot treat
this lightly. It doesn’t matter if there’s a Horcrux with the soul of a
houngan missing, or just a skull containing their dark knowledge; either way,
it is not something we can leave in the hands of a Death Eater — especially
not someone like Rookwood.”
“We don’t know if it’s in his hands,” Harry pointed out.
“We can assume that it was in Voldemort’s hands, and that he used it to either
learn or create his Withering Curse,” Hermione cut in. She looked at Harry and
seemed to hesitate a moment. “You didn’t notice any sign of possession when
you fought him, did you?”
learn or create his Withering Curse,” Hermione cut in. She looked at Harry and
seemed to hesitate a moment. “You didn’t notice any sign of possession when
you fought him, did you?”
Ron’s best friend shook his head. “No. That was just Voldemort.”
Ron was relieved — until he had another worrying thought. “We don’t know where
the skull is. But will the houngans believe us?”
the skull is. But will the houngans believe us?”
Sirius drew a hissing breath. “They won’t. I think the best course of action
is for us to help them search for that skull.” He sighed. “Which might be
exactly what they want, since it’ll give them ample opportunity to find out
just what we can do without Dumbledore.”
is for us to help them search for that skull.” He sighed. “Which might be
exactly what they want, since it’ll give them ample opportunity to find out
just what we can do without Dumbledore.”
“Great. And I thought working with the Ministry was bad.” Harry sighed. “Do
you think the houngans have the counter-curse for the Withering Curse?”
you think the houngans have the counter-curse for the Withering Curse?”
Hermione frowned. “Wouldn’t they have mentioned that and offered it in
exchange for our help instead of threatening us?”
exchange for our help instead of threatening us?”
Sirius shook his head. “They might simply prefer to see if they can force us
to help them first, before offering us something in return.”
to help them first, before offering us something in return.”
“And we still plan to help them?” Harry sounded like he would prefer a fight
right then, Ron thought.
right then, Ron thought.
Sirius shrugged. “We’re not in a good position to refuse them. Not with the
ICW’s inspection hanging over us.” He bared his teeth, and Ron thought he
heard him growl. “We’ll just have to be subtle, then, to turn the tables on
them.”
ICW’s inspection hanging over us.” He bared his teeth, and Ron thought he
heard him growl. “We’ll just have to be subtle, then, to turn the tables on
them.”
“Like Slytherins,” Harry said.
Sirius nodded. “Exact… what? No!”
Harry’s comment wasn’t that funny, but Ron chuckled anyway, if only to mask
his fear. He glanced at Hermione, who was biting her lower lip so hard, he
feared she’d draw blood soon. Reaching out, he gripped her hand and smiled at
her. “We’ll get through this,” he whispered. “We beat the Dark Lord, after
all.”
his fear. He glanced at Hermione, who was biting her lower lip so hard, he
feared she’d draw blood soon. Reaching out, he gripped her hand and smiled at
her. “We’ll get through this,” he whispered. “We beat the Dark Lord, after
all.”
Her own smile was weak, but she nodded.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 12th, 1997**
“What went wrong at the Daily Prophet?” Amelia Bones asked as soon as Pius had
closed the door to her office behind him. She banished the latest issue of the
newspaper towards him. “They were supposed to cover yesterday’s awards and the
reception, not stab the country in the back by promoting rumours about Potter,
Granger and Weasley.”
closed the door to her office behind him. She banished the latest issue of the
newspaper towards him. “They were supposed to cover yesterday’s awards and the
reception, not stab the country in the back by promoting rumours about Potter,
Granger and Weasley.”
“I assume you mean this line: ‘According to sources at Hogwarts, Harry Potter
and Ronald Weasley left the school to spend time with Hermione Granger in
their love nest’.” Pius acted as if he hadn’t read the article before he
arrived in her office.
and Ronald Weasley left the school to spend time with Hermione Granger in
their love nest’.” Pius acted as if he hadn’t read the article before he
arrived in her office.
She glared at him. “How exactly can anyone think that speculation about a
ménage à trois between those three is acceptable right now?” She stood up. “I
hate how we had to treat those three, especially Granger, as the greatest
heroes of Britain since Dumbledore, but it was the price for presenting a
united front to the ICW. Now, who is pulling strings to sabotage us?”
ménage à trois between those three is acceptable right now?” She stood up. “I
hate how we had to treat those three, especially Granger, as the greatest
heroes of Britain since Dumbledore, but it was the price for presenting a
united front to the ICW. Now, who is pulling strings to sabotage us?”
“I don’t know,” Pius said, “but I will find out.”
“You better,” Amelia snapped. There weren’t too many people who could
influence the Prophet, and even fewer of those had any motive to betray the
Ministry. “Now, what are the delegates doing?”
influence the Prophet, and even fewer of those had any motive to betray the
Ministry. “Now, what are the delegates doing?”
“The Aurors and Hit-Wizards providing security for our guests haven’t observed
any meetings so far,” Pius answered. “Although given our forces’ current lack
of experience…” He trailed off and spread his hands.
any meetings so far,” Pius answered. “Although given our forces’ current lack
of experience…” He trailed off and spread his hands.
Amelia shook her head. “Get some competent Aurors on that. If whoever is
behind this article meets Beaumont or Steiner, it could be a disaster.” Those
two could influence the ICW, and were backed by powerful countries.
behind this article meets Beaumont or Steiner, it could be a disaster.” Those
two could influence the ICW, and were backed by powerful countries.
“Reid spoke with Potter and his friends at the reception,” Pius said, his
expression bland.
expression bland.
“I expect that you have competent Aurors on his detail,” Amelia said. Leaving
a houngan on his own in Britain was out of the question, after all.
a houngan on his own in Britain was out of the question, after all.
“The best I could spare.”
Who might not be good enough, Amelia knew. She would have to ask Black to find
out if the houngan had said anything important. And that article wouldn’t
help.
out if the houngan had said anything important. And that article wouldn’t
help.
---
An hour later, Amelia was walking with Beaumont and Steiner through the
offices of the Obliviators. Arlene Abbott, the head of the Obliviators, was
all smiles and confidence.
offices of the Obliviators. Arlene Abbott, the head of the Obliviators, was
all smiles and confidence.
“As you can see, we are ready to deal with any threats to the Statute of
Secrecy,” she said, pointing at a group of wizards and witches in their
distinctive robes. “Our Seers are under constant surveillance, and we are
poised to react at once to their visions.”
Secrecy,” she said, pointing at a group of wizards and witches in their
distinctive robes. “Our Seers are under constant surveillance, and we are
poised to react at once to their visions.”
The French delegate smiled politely. “I see. It does look in order — though,
please, tell me: How did you deal with the additional strain that the recent
war put on your department?”
please, tell me: How did you deal with the additional strain that the recent
war put on your department?”
Abbott wasn’t fazed. “Ah, it wasn’t actually much of a strain, was it,
Oliver?” She turned to a middle-aged wizard sitting at a massive desk and
sorting scrolls.
Oliver?” She turned to a middle-aged wizard sitting at a massive desk and
sorting scrolls.
The man shook his head. “Not at all. In fact, we had less work during the war,
since so many wizards were hiding, and children were much better supervised
than usual. There were a few major events, but those were easily contained —
all the factions took care to avoid bothering the muggles too much.”
since so many wizards were hiding, and children were much better supervised
than usual. There were a few major events, but those were easily contained —
all the factions took care to avoid bothering the muggles too much.”
“So, do you expect things to grow worse then, with the war being over?”
Beaumont quickly said.
Beaumont quickly said.
Abbott raised her hand and made a dismissive gesture. “Oh, no! Compared to the
end of the last war, this was easy to handle. It was all in the report I sent
to the ICW, too,” she added. “You’ve read it, I trust?”
end of the last war, this was easy to handle. It was all in the report I sent
to the ICW, too,” she added. “You’ve read it, I trust?”
“Of course.” Beaumont’s smile slipped a tiny bit, Amelia thought. “But the ICW
was worried that the report might have been a bit too optimistic, given the
wide-spread devastation that the Ministry suffered during the war.”
was worried that the report might have been a bit too optimistic, given the
wide-spread devastation that the Ministry suffered during the war.”
“Are you accusing me of falsifying a report for political reasons?” Amelia
refrained from smiling when Abbott suddenly glared at the French witch. She
didn’t know Abbott well — the witch wasn’t that closely related to Susan’s
best friend at Hogwarts — but she knew her reputation. “We only answer to the
ICW!”
refrained from smiling when Abbott suddenly glared at the French witch. She
didn’t know Abbott well — the witch wasn’t that closely related to Susan’s
best friend at Hogwarts — but she knew her reputation. “We only answer to the
ICW!”
“I am aware of that, of course,” Beaumont said, smiling sweetly. “But you are
still British witches and wizards, are you not? It must be horrible to see all
that devastation, while not being able to help your country.”
still British witches and wizards, are you not? It must be horrible to see all
that devastation, while not being able to help your country.”
Abbott sniffed. “We know our duty.”
“Of course.” The French witch’s tone belied her words.
Steiner stepped in. “Well, it seems you have things well in hand here. But how
are you set for replacements? Just from looking at all the young Aurors and
Hit-Wizards, it’s obvious that many experienced wizards perished.” He sighed.
“It reminds me of the aftermath of Grindelwald’s War.”
are you set for replacements? Just from looking at all the young Aurors and
Hit-Wizards, it’s obvious that many experienced wizards perished.” He sighed.
“It reminds me of the aftermath of Grindelwald’s War.”
“None of us are about to retire for a few years yet. More than enough time to
recruit and train our replacements,” Abbott said. “And while it might appear
cynical, as a neutral department not answering to the Minister, we have an
advantage when it comes to recruiting. There are a number of skilled and
experienced muggleborns who left the Ministry’s employ prior to or during the
war. Not all of them will be willing to return to their old posts to work next
to those who let them go.”
recruit and train our replacements,” Abbott said. “And while it might appear
cynical, as a neutral department not answering to the Minister, we have an
advantage when it comes to recruiting. There are a number of skilled and
experienced muggleborns who left the Ministry’s employ prior to or during the
war. Not all of them will be willing to return to their old posts to work next
to those who let them go.”
Amelia pressed her lips together when she saw Steiner stare at the witch and
Beaumont smile. Abbott was correct, but hiring muggleborns for the Obliviator
Corps wasn’t something those two delegates would consider a good thing. A view
Amelia thought she could understand, after the last war.
Beaumont smile. Abbott was correct, but hiring muggleborns for the Obliviator
Corps wasn’t something those two delegates would consider a good thing. A view
Amelia thought she could understand, after the last war.
Nevertheless, the damage was done. All she could do now was mitigate it. She
felt as if she were back as the Head of the DMLE and faced with some rather
outspoken Aurors talking to the Minister about things Cornelius shouldn’t have
been told. “Until replacements are needed, this is a merely academic
question.” She glared at Abbott, and the witch fortunately took the hint. This
was not the place to talk about on-the-job training and planning ahead. “Now,
how about we take a look at the Seers’ offices?”
felt as if she were back as the Head of the DMLE and faced with some rather
outspoken Aurors talking to the Minister about things Cornelius shouldn’t have
been told. “Until replacements are needed, this is a merely academic
question.” She glared at Abbott, and the witch fortunately took the hint. This
was not the place to talk about on-the-job training and planning ahead. “Now,
how about we take a look at the Seers’ offices?”
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 12th, 1997**
“Mate, those firearms might be useful, but they’re heavy!”
Harry Potter mumbled his agreement while the two were walking back from the
range to the camp. The Sergeant had been drilling them for hours, to ‘make up
for the time missed yesterday’, before it had been their turn at the range
with the Major.
range to the camp. The Sergeant had been drilling them for hours, to ‘make up
for the time missed yesterday’, before it had been their turn at the range
with the Major.
“We’ll be late for dinner, too,” Ron went on.
“Hermione will have kept some food for us,” Harry said.
His friend perked up. “Right! And we’ll have a bit more privacy with everyone
else already done.” He stepped over a root that had sent a number of the
recruits into the mud in the last few days. “Should we take guns with us,
tomorrow?”
else already done.” He stepped over a root that had sent a number of the
recruits into the mud in the last few days. “Should we take guns with us,
tomorrow?”
Harry knew what he meant. “I don’t think we’ll be able to use them that well
against Reid. Should things come to that,” he added after a second. He patted
the thigh pocket of his uniform, enchanted with an extension charm courtesy of
Hermione, which held the Elder Wand. “You know what Hermione said about rifles
being best used from far away.”
against Reid. Should things come to that,” he added after a second. He patted
the thigh pocket of his uniform, enchanted with an extension charm courtesy of
Hermione, which held the Elder Wand. “You know what Hermione said about rifles
being best used from far away.”
“Dunno. He’ll be ready for curses. Bullets might surprise him.”
“A Shield Charm will stop them well enough,” Harry said.
“That’ll stop curses as well,” Ron retorted.
“Most curses.” Harry looked ahead. They were close to the camp now. Ron
glanced at him, but didn’t say anything else until they reached the perimeter.
glanced at him, but didn’t say anything else until they reached the perimeter.
---
As it turned out, Hermione had kept their dinner. Unfortunately, she didn’t
just have dinner waiting for them, but also the latest issue of the Daily
Prophet. “It’s the talk of the camp,” she said with a frown while putting the
newspaper down on the table inside her tent — and Ron’s, Harry thought, given
that his friend hadn’t slept in the tent he shared with Harry for days now.
‘The Prophet’s again claiming that we’re in a sordid ménage à trois.’ She
scoffed. “Nothing about our speeches, but a whole column about our supposed
love life! I’d have expected that from Teen Witch Weekly!”
just have dinner waiting for them, but also the latest issue of the Daily
Prophet. “It’s the talk of the camp,” she said with a frown while putting the
newspaper down on the table inside her tent — and Ron’s, Harry thought, given
that his friend hadn’t slept in the tent he shared with Harry for days now.
‘The Prophet’s again claiming that we’re in a sordid ménage à trois.’ She
scoffed. “Nothing about our speeches, but a whole column about our supposed
love life! I’d have expected that from Teen Witch Weekly!”
Ron frowned. “That’s not a good sign. I would have thought that with the
Ministry playing nice, the Prophet would follow suit.”
Ministry playing nice, the Prophet would follow suit.”
Harry craned his neck, then turned the newspaper around, sending a few of the
Wizengamot members scattering when a bit of his meal landed close to their
picture. There was a big picture of the three of them, on the front page,
smiling with their Orders of Merlin. “We might be overreacting,” he said after
skimming through the article. “It might simply be some journalist trying to
spice up their article.”
Wizengamot members scattering when a bit of his meal landed close to their
picture. There was a big picture of the three of them, on the front page,
smiling with their Orders of Merlin. “We might be overreacting,” he said after
skimming through the article. “It might simply be some journalist trying to
spice up their article.”
“And the Prophet printed it?” Hermione looked doubtful.
“Maybe they’ve decided to demonstrate their independence? And took the muggle
tabloids as their example?” Harry shrugged. ‘Just an idea,’ he added when he
saw the sceptical expressions of his friends. “We have bigger things to worry
about, anyway.”
tabloids as their example?” Harry shrugged. ‘Just an idea,’ he added when he
saw the sceptical expressions of his friends. “We have bigger things to worry
about, anyway.”
“Reid,” Ron said, finishing his meal. Harry’s friend ‘ate like a veteran’, the
Sergeant had told them. They weren’t certain if it had been a compliment or
not.
Sergeant had told them. They weren’t certain if it had been a compliment or
not.
Hermione nodded. “I don’t think he’ll try anything tomorrow, but…”
“… you can’t trust houngans,” Ron said.
That earned him a glare from the witch, Harry noted. She went on: “I meant,
Magical Jamaica might be planning to both take out ‘Dumbledore’s Heir’ and
manufacture a pretext for war at the same time.”
Magical Jamaica might be planning to both take out ‘Dumbledore’s Heir’ and
manufacture a pretext for war at the same time.”
Harry grimaced — the latest title for him that the Prophet had come up with
was the worst so far, in his opinion. “I’m no Dumbledore,” he said through
clenched teeth.
was the worst so far, in his opinion. “I’m no Dumbledore,” he said through
clenched teeth.
“But you’ll have to act the part,” Hermione told him. “We need to win the
purebloods and half-bloods over so the Wizengamot will peacefully step down.”
purebloods and half-bloods over so the Wizengamot will peacefully step down.”
He knew that. But he had thought that being the Boy-Who-Lived would be enough.
“I can’t really act the part either. I’m no prodigy. I don’t have his
knowledge or experience.” He glanced at Hermione. She had all the knowledge.
And she had the experience as a leader.
“I can’t really act the part either. I’m no prodigy. I don’t have his
knowledge or experience.” He glanced at Hermione. She had all the knowledge.
And she had the experience as a leader.
“You’re a prodigy in Defence,” Hermione said.
He shrugged. He hadn’t been good enough to match Voldemort in a duel.
“You have Dumbledore’s wand,” Ron pointed out. “And you can wield it easily.
That’s quite close to being his heir. Or would be, if it wasn’t the, you
know.” He made a gesture with his hand towards Harry.
That’s quite close to being his heir. Or would be, if it wasn’t the, you
know.” He made a gesture with his hand towards Harry.
Harry put his hand on the pocket containing the Elder Wand. “And if I flash it
around, people might realise which wand it is.”
around, people might realise which wand it is.”
“They didn’t notice it when Dumbledore carried it.” Ron shrugged.
“Dumbledore used his own, his other wand, in public, I think,” Hermione said.
“I haven’t looked into that, though.”
“I haven’t looked into that, though.”
“In any case, I don’t want to risk using it,” Harry said. “Unless there’s no
choice. There are still people seeking the wand. And we can’t afford for
everyone to come after me. Trying to win it.”
choice. There are still people seeking the wand. And we can’t afford for
everyone to come after me. Trying to win it.”
His friends winced. “Well, we can’t do much but play along with Reid, and be
ready for trouble,” Ron said. “Or as ready as we can be, given that we don’t
know what he is planning.”
ready for trouble,” Ron said. “Or as ready as we can be, given that we don’t
know what he is planning.”
“In other words, we’re back at square one.” Harry sighed and pushed his tray
away. “I’ll take a walk. Good night.” He stood up and left the tent, ignoring
the glances his friends exchanged. He doubted that Ron would leave the tent
until morning.
away. “I’ll take a walk. Good night.” He stood up and left the tent, ignoring
the glances his friends exchanged. He doubted that Ron would leave the tent
until morning.
Outside, the recruits and Resistance members were still gathered around the
campfire. “Hey, Harry!” he heard Seamus yell. “Come sit with us!”
campfire. “Hey, Harry!” he heard Seamus yell. “Come sit with us!”
He hesitated for a second, then started to walk over to the campfire. It was
better than walking around the forest and trying not to think about what his
best friends were doing inside their tent.
better than walking around the forest and trying not to think about what his
best friends were doing inside their tent.
Seamus scooted away from Tania and patted the free space on the log there.
“Sit down here!”
“Sit down here!”
Harry nodded at the others and sat down. When he saw that they had been
reading the Prophet, he almost stood up right away. “You better not believe
that rag,” he said, grabbing the lone can of Coca-Cola from the cooler filled
with beer next to Seamus.
reading the Prophet, he almost stood up right away. “You better not believe
that rag,” he said, grabbing the lone can of Coca-Cola from the cooler filled
with beer next to Seamus.
Slightly nervous laughter answered him, though Seamus and Tania were
chuckling. “Left the lovebirds in their tent?”
chuckling. “Left the lovebirds in their tent?”
“Yes,” Harry said, a bit sharper than he wanted, and opened the can.
“So… when’s your first session in the Wizengamot?” Another recruit, Matthew
something, asked.
something, asked.
“I’ll only be able to actually vote myself once I’m seventeen,” Harry said.
‘I’ll have a proxy vote for me until then.’ With a grin, he added: “Of course,
I hope that by then, we’ll have general elections, so I can skip that.”
‘I’ll have a proxy vote for me until then.’ With a grin, he added: “Of course,
I hope that by then, we’ll have general elections, so I can skip that.”
Seamus scoffed. “Fat chance of that! The pureblood idiots are too stupid to
realise that they have lost. We’ll have to kick them out.”
realise that they have lost. We’ll have to kick them out.”
Harry glanced at the former fellow Gryffindor. “It’s not the purebloods, it’s
just the Old Families. The majority of the purebloods, like Ron’s family,
haven’t had any say in Wizarding Britain’s government for centuries.”
just the Old Families. The majority of the purebloods, like Ron’s family,
haven’t had any say in Wizarding Britain’s government for centuries.”
Seamus snorted, but the other muggleborns seemed to be listening — he saw a
number of them nod. Harry continued: “And even among the Old Families, things
are changing. Sirius, my godfather, has a lot of allies who follow his lead in
the Wizengamot. And there were a number of others who were starting to switch
sides.”
number of them nod. Harry continued: “And even among the Old Families, things
are changing. Sirius, my godfather, has a lot of allies who follow his lead in
the Wizengamot. And there were a number of others who were starting to switch
sides.”
“We still have to be ready for trouble,” Tania cut in. “Especially with the
ICW’s inspection.”
ICW’s inspection.”
“Of course,” Harry nodded at her. “But we’re close to our goals. Once we have
the Wizengamot, the Ministry follows.”
the Wizengamot, the Ministry follows.”
“That’s what Hermione keeps saying,” Seamus muttered. But once again, the rest
of the Resistance members and recruits nodded.
of the Resistance members and recruits nodded.
“Will you be running for a seat once there are elections?” Mary-Jane wanted to
know.
know.
“Probably,” Harry said. He wasn’t too keen on it, but Hermione was convinced
that they needed him in the Wizengamot even after the reforms.
that they needed him in the Wizengamot even after the reforms.
“You should,” someone else said. “You’ll do fine!”
“Better than the current members for sure,” another added.
“We’ll see. Hermione and Ron will sit in the next session,” Harry said.
“That’ll be a scene!” Tania chuckled, and even Seamus grinned.
Harry knew that Hermione would not make too many waves while the ICW’s
inspectors were still in Britain, but he didn’t tell the others that while
they were speculating about the Wizengamot’s reaction. He simply sipped his
Coca-Cola, and enjoyed the evening.
inspectors were still in Britain, but he didn’t tell the others that while
they were speculating about the Wizengamot’s reaction. He simply sipped his
Coca-Cola, and enjoyed the evening.
Tomorrow would come soon enough.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, March 13th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass was struggling to remain polite and composed. There was a
werewolf in her home! She was standing next to a dark creature, a cursed
beast! And it was all Black’s fault!
werewolf in her home! She was standing next to a dark creature, a cursed
beast! And it was all Black’s fault!
“Do you usually receive your guests, including Nott, in the living room?”
Lupin asked.
Lupin asked.
Daphne wanted to ask where else she’d receive guests, but refrained from doing
so, and nodded instead. “Yes.”
so, and nodded instead. “Yes.”
“Well, sometimes we gathered in the garden,” Tracey cut in, smiling at him.
“We haven’t done that in a while, though. Theo won’t suspect anything if we
meet him in the living room. And we’ll be able to wait comfortably.”
“We haven’t done that in a while, though. Theo won’t suspect anything if we
meet him in the living room. And we’ll be able to wait comfortably.”
Her friend was far too friendly with the werewolf, Daphne thought. She didn’t
know if Tracey was simply putting on an act, or if that crush she’d had on
their third year Defence teacher had survived the revelation that he was a
werewolf.
know if Tracey was simply putting on an act, or if that crush she’d had on
their third year Defence teacher had survived the revelation that he was a
werewolf.
“Remus won’t be in the living room, though,” their other guest spoke up. “Just
me, and you two.” Nymphadora Tonks — ‘Auror Tonks’, as she told them to call
her — smiled a bit too sweetly. The witch was a metamorphmagus, and would be
posing as Astoria during Theo’s visit. She currently looked like a tall and
rather curvy blonde witch. Daphne would have been jealous, if she didn’t know
that it wasn’t Tonks’s natural body.
me, and you two.” Nymphadora Tonks — ‘Auror Tonks’, as she told them to call
her — smiled a bit too sweetly. The witch was a metamorphmagus, and would be
posing as Astoria during Theo’s visit. She currently looked like a tall and
rather curvy blonde witch. Daphne would have been jealous, if she didn’t know
that it wasn’t Tonks’s natural body.
“Well, Theo’s not here yet,” Tracey said. ‘There’s no need to split up.’ She
cocked her head at Tonks. “Although… don’t you need to spend some time with
Astoria, to copy her manners?”
cocked her head at Tonks. “Although… don’t you need to spend some time with
Astoria, to copy her manners?”
“Nott hasn’t even called yet,” Tonks said. “It’s better to get the lay of the
land, first. Just in case there’s trouble coming, I’d rather not get lost in
the mansion during a fight.”
land, first. Just in case there’s trouble coming, I’d rather not get lost in
the mansion during a fight.”
“Of course.” Daphne once again forced herself to smile. It was a reasonable
request — if one didn’t realise that the two would learn far too much about
Daphne’s home and its defences as well. Black had planned this well — every
step of his plan was making Daphne more vulnerable. And some people claimed he
was but a rash Gryffindor!
request — if one didn’t realise that the two would learn far too much about
Daphne’s home and its defences as well. Black had planned this well — every
step of his plan was making Daphne more vulnerable. And some people claimed he
was but a rash Gryffindor!
She led them to the living room of the manor. “Cosy,” Tonks said as she looked
around.
around.
“Thank you,” Daphne answered automatically.
Lupin was studying the walls and windows attentively. Probing for weaknesses,
probably. The man was a good actor, keeping his beastly nature hidden behind a
polite, quiet facade. If she didn’t know better, Daphne would have never
suspected that he was a werewolf.
probably. The man was a good actor, keeping his beastly nature hidden behind a
polite, quiet facade. If she didn’t know better, Daphne would have never
suspected that he was a werewolf.
“I think this is secure enough,” Lupin said. “Provided he doesn’t bring
friends.”
friends.”
Tonks shrugged. “We’re not about to fight them here anyway. That would give
the game away, and warn Runcorn and Malfoy.”
the game away, and warn Runcorn and Malfoy.”
Which wouldn’t be a bad thing, in Daphne’s opinion. Laying a trap for Theo was
far less dangerous than trying to spy on those two, and their co-conspirators.
Which was what Black expected of her and Tracey. “Theo needs to visit, first.
He might consider us a lost cause.”
far less dangerous than trying to spy on those two, and their co-conspirators.
Which was what Black expected of her and Tracey. “Theo needs to visit, first.
He might consider us a lost cause.”
“I think that is unlikely,” Lupin said. “His proxy must have noticed how yours
voted. He is probably simply being cautious.”
voted. He is probably simply being cautious.”
That sounded like Theo, Daphne had to admit. He had a tendency to hesitate,
which he might mistake for being cautious. Not that she was currently acting
very cautiously either.
which he might mistake for being cautious. Not that she was currently acting
very cautiously either.
“Well, if he is not visiting we can meet him at the equinox ceremony on the
twentieth,” Tracey said.
twentieth,” Tracey said.
Daphne glared at her friend. Bringing a spy to that ceremony… they’d be
excluded if that came out. But Black had probably already thought of that.
excluded if that came out. But Black had probably already thought of that.
“Mum told me about the ceremony, but I’ve never seen one,” Tonks said.
For a moment, no one said anything. Daphne knew very well why Tonks had never
attended an equinox or solstice ceremony — her mother had been cast out by her
family for marrying a muggle. “It’s a simple ceremony,” she said. “It’s easy
to learn the rites.”
attended an equinox or solstice ceremony — her mother had been cast out by her
family for marrying a muggle. “It’s a simple ceremony,” she said. “It’s easy
to learn the rites.”
“Ah.” Tonks nodded.
“Astoria can probably teach you,” Tracey said, smiling like she did when she
had been needling Pansy, back at Hogwarts. Before the war.
had been needling Pansy, back at Hogwarts. Before the war.
“Anyway, let me show you your rooms,” Daphne said, gesturing at the door.
“We just need one room,” Tonks said. “For safety.”
“With two beds,” Lupin added.
Daphne saw Tonks frown briefly at that. She wasn’t about to pry, though. “Of
course. Please follow me.”
course. Please follow me.”
A few minutes later, with Lupin and Tonks in the guest room, conjuring
furniture — a not so subtle sign that they didn’t trust her, Daphne thought —
she was finally free of the werewolf’s presence. At least for the moment. She
closed her eyes for a moment and sighed.
furniture — a not so subtle sign that they didn’t trust her, Daphne thought —
she was finally free of the werewolf’s presence. At least for the moment. She
closed her eyes for a moment and sighed.
“We’re in quite a pickle,” Tracey said, her friendly smile replaced by a
cynical expression.
cynical expression.
“Yes, we are. We can but hope that Theo will visit soon, so we can get this
done.” She knew it would likely mean Theo’s death, but she didn’t care. Not
about him, not any more. All she wanted was to protect her family.
done.” She knew it would likely mean Theo’s death, but she didn’t care. Not
about him, not any more. All she wanted was to protect her family.
“That still leaves Runcorn and Malfoy.”
Daphne glared at Tracey. Trust her friend to ruin any silver lining Daphne
might see!
might see!
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 13th, 1997**
“So, who’s pulling the strings of the Prophet?” Amelia Bones snapped as soon
as Pius had closed the door behind him.
as Pius had closed the door behind him.
The Head of the DMLE stiffened very slightly before answering in his usual
calm manner. “I don’t exactly know. The author of the article was struck with
a Confundus Charm, as was the editor.” With a sigh, he added: “The rest of the
staff didn’t notice anything — or they didn’t question the article’s wording.”
calm manner. “I don’t exactly know. The author of the article was struck with
a Confundus Charm, as was the editor.” With a sigh, he added: “The rest of the
staff didn’t notice anything — or they didn’t question the article’s wording.”
“Were the two victims struck at the same time and location?” She had been an
Auror for too long to have lost the mindset.
Auror for too long to have lost the mindset.
He shook his head, the edges of his mouth briefly turning down. “Not as far as
we can tell. Someone manipulated their memories as well.”
we can tell. Someone manipulated their memories as well.”
Amelia pressed her lips together. She had expected to find a short-sighted
member of an Old Family, not something like this. “So, either they’re playing
it safe, or they lack the gold or influence to handle this the ‘traditional
way’.” Which meant bribes or threats. “Or this is the work of our guests.”
member of an Old Family, not something like this. “So, either they’re playing
it safe, or they lack the gold or influence to handle this the ‘traditional
way’.” Which meant bribes or threats. “Or this is the work of our guests.”
Pius had already considered that as well, of course. “The journalist was
talking to the delegates, asking for an interview. It would have been easy for
them to arrange an opportunity to meet her privately.”
talking to the delegates, asking for an interview. It would have been easy for
them to arrange an opportunity to meet her privately.”
“Exactly. Can we exclude Reid from the suspect list?”
Pius hesitated a fraction of a second. That told Amelia enough, and she shook
her head before he could start to explain the failures of his Aurors to keep
an eye on their most dangerous guest. “I know we can’t prevent them from
apparating.” She tapped her chin with the index of her left hand — as Alastor
had taught her, so long ago, she always kept her wand hand free if possible.
“He was talking to Black’s group.”
her head before he could start to explain the failures of his Aurors to keep
an eye on their most dangerous guest. “I know we can’t prevent them from
apparating.” She tapped her chin with the index of her left hand — as Alastor
had taught her, so long ago, she always kept her wand hand free if possible.
“He was talking to Black’s group.”
“Do you wish to track Black?”
She looked at him. As if she would suggest such a futile thing. Black and his
group had evaded the Dark Lord’s assassins during the war. What was left of
the Ministry’s Aurors wouldn’t be able to track them, if they could find them
in the first place. Not least because he had moles inside their force. “Potter
and Weasley have left Hogwarts; that much at least was correct in that
article.” Susan had told her that the two boys were ‘excused from school for
personal reasons’ according to the Hogwarts rumour mill.
group had evaded the Dark Lord’s assassins during the war. What was left of
the Ministry’s Aurors wouldn’t be able to track them, if they could find them
in the first place. Not least because he had moles inside their force. “Potter
and Weasley have left Hogwarts; that much at least was correct in that
article.” Susan had told her that the two boys were ‘excused from school for
personal reasons’ according to the Hogwarts rumour mill.
“Do you think they are with Granger?” Pius asked. She couldn’t tell if he was
amused or appalled by their attempt to use the Prophet as a source of
information.
amused or appalled by their attempt to use the Prophet as a source of
information.
“Yes. Though not for the reasons stated in the article. They’re preparing
something.” Amelia was certain of that. They were close, but not *that* close,
as their behaviour had shown at the award ceremony and the reception. At least
unless all of them were far better actors than their history at Hogwarts would
suggest.
something.” Amelia was certain of that. They were close, but not *that* close,
as their behaviour had shown at the award ceremony and the reception. At least
unless all of them were far better actors than their history at Hogwarts would
suggest.
“The Resistance hasn’t been making that many appearances during the last few
days,” Pius said. “That is helpful with regards to the current international
situation, but it means we don’t know what they are doing. And we lack the
Aurors to find out more.”
days,” Pius said. “That is helpful with regards to the current international
situation, but it means we don’t know what they are doing. And we lack the
Aurors to find out more.”
“We couldn’t find them back when we had the Aurors,” Amelia said.
“Which means they have the initiative,” Pius said. “Should it come to a
fight.”
fight.”
“I am well aware of that,” Amelia said, controlling her temper. ‘Unlike some
of our esteemed members of the Wizengamot, I am not ignorant of just how weak
the Ministry is.’ It galled her to admit this; she had been working for the
Ministry since her graduation from Hogwarts, and to see it reduced like this…
She shook her head. “Our duty doesn’t change, though.”
of our esteemed members of the Wizengamot, I am not ignorant of just how weak
the Ministry is.’ It galled her to admit this; she had been working for the
Ministry since her graduation from Hogwarts, and to see it reduced like this…
She shook her head. “Our duty doesn’t change, though.”
“Until the Wizengamot changes,” Pius said. ‘We just enforce the laws, after
all, we do not make them.’ He didn’t bother to hide his sarcasm when he quoted
her own words back at her. She glared at him, and his expression softened a
little. “You know it’s coming, Amelia. The muggleborns have grown too
powerful, the half-bloods have been alienated by the muggleborn laws, and the
Old Families are losing their grip on the purebloods. Arthur’s busy building
his power base in the Ministry, and Black’s influence in the Wizengamot is
growing. You can’t stop this unless you invite the Europeans to occupy
Britain, and even that might not work.”
all, we do not make them.’ He didn’t bother to hide his sarcasm when he quoted
her own words back at her. She glared at him, and his expression softened a
little. “You know it’s coming, Amelia. The muggleborns have grown too
powerful, the half-bloods have been alienated by the muggleborn laws, and the
Old Families are losing their grip on the purebloods. Arthur’s busy building
his power base in the Ministry, and Black’s influence in the Wizengamot is
growing. You can’t stop this unless you invite the Europeans to occupy
Britain, and even that might not work.”
“It would also be treason,” she said.
“Yes.” He kept looking at her impassively.
She closed her eyes and slowly let out her breath, then looked at him. “I know
that. I’m no fool.”
that. I’m no fool.”
“Then why don’t you join Black?”
“Join Black? Compromise my integrity and abandon my principles? And for what?”
She scoffed. “For whatever bribe he will offer?”
She scoffed. “For whatever bribe he will offer?”
“Influence. Power,” Pius said. “You could even keep your position.”
She snorted. “I’m not *you*.”
“I know.”
She almost cursed him for the pity she noticed in his tone. But he was wrong.
Whatever power he imagined he could gather he’d lose. For all his political
experience, Pius didn’t understand Black — or Granger. They were not
interested in power for power’s sake; they wanted power to change things.
Whatever power he imagined he could gather he’d lose. For all his political
experience, Pius didn’t understand Black — or Granger. They were not
interested in power for power’s sake; they wanted power to change things.
And they didn’t care how much they had to destroy to reach their goals.
---
An hour later, she had another irksome visitor in her office. “Good afternoon,
Madam Beaumont.”
Madam Beaumont.”
“Good afternoon, Madam Minister.” The French witch inclined her head.
“I thought you would be accompanying an Obliviator squad in the field today,”
Amelia said. That had been scheduled, at least.
Amelia said. That had been scheduled, at least.
“Ah, Herbert is with them. He is in his element — I guess Obliviators come
close enough for a man who misses his past as a Feldjäger so much.”
close enough for a man who misses his past as a Feldjäger so much.”
Amelia wasn’t certain if that was a barb aimed at her as well, but she wasn’t
about to discuss the Prussian delegate with the French one. “How can I help
you? As far as I am aware, the goal of your visit is to judge Britain’s
ability to preserve the Statute of Secrecy, which is handled by the Obliviator
Corps.” And she wouldn’t find any fault with them. The Obliviators were about
the only department of the Ministry who had come through the war unscathed.
about to discuss the Prussian delegate with the French one. “How can I help
you? As far as I am aware, the goal of your visit is to judge Britain’s
ability to preserve the Statute of Secrecy, which is handled by the Obliviator
Corps.” And she wouldn’t find any fault with them. The Obliviators were about
the only department of the Ministry who had come through the war unscathed.
“Oh, the British Obliviators certainly seem to be capable of fulfilling their
duties,” Beaumont said with the sort of polite, empty smile Amelia had come to
quickly hate after rising in the Ministry. “But we would be neglecting our
duty if we were simply to inspect the current Obliviators, and not consider
future developments.”
duties,” Beaumont said with the sort of polite, empty smile Amelia had come to
quickly hate after rising in the Ministry. “But we would be neglecting our
duty if we were simply to inspect the current Obliviators, and not consider
future developments.”
“Madam Abbott did explain the future plans and contingencies of her department
quite clearly yesterday,” Amelia said. “Do you doubt her claims?”
quite clearly yesterday,” Amelia said. “Do you doubt her claims?”
“I am certain her proposed policies will be adequate — provided the situation
in Britain does not undergo more changes. A renewal of hostilities, for
example, could endanger the Statute of Secrecy. Especially if muggleborns were
recruited as Obliviators. They might have reservations about obliviating
muggles, after all, being so close to them.”
in Britain does not undergo more changes. A renewal of hostilities, for
example, could endanger the Statute of Secrecy. Especially if muggleborns were
recruited as Obliviators. They might have reservations about obliviating
muggles, after all, being so close to them.”
The French witch hadn’t answered her question, Amelia noted. She narrowed her
eyes slightly. “Madam Abbott mentioned that muggleborns might be able to be
more effective in protecting the Statute since they are so familiar with
muggles.”
eyes slightly. “Madam Abbott mentioned that muggleborns might be able to be
more effective in protecting the Statute since they are so familiar with
muggles.”
“I don’t think that has ever been tried. At least not in France.” Beaumont
dismissed the thought with a wave of her hand. “There’s also the concern about
possible future changes in Britain. A new administration might not understand
the importance of the Obliviators.”
dismissed the thought with a wave of her hand. “There’s also the concern about
possible future changes in Britain. A new administration might not understand
the importance of the Obliviators.”
Amelia stared at her. “That’s rather vague.”
She thought she saw the French witch’s eyes twitch for a moment. “I assume you
are aware of the developments in the Wizengamot. The balance of power is
shifting, is it not?”
are aware of the developments in the Wizengamot. The balance of power is
shifting, is it not?”
“You might not be used to it, coming from a country ruled by hereditary
ruler,” Amelia said, “but that’s not uncommon for the Wizengamot.”
ruler,” Amelia said, “but that’s not uncommon for the Wizengamot.”
Beaumont wrinkled her nose. “I do not think that muggleborns and low-borns
taking over has ever happened before, not even in Britain.”
taking over has ever happened before, not even in Britain.”
If any purebloods overheard the witch talk like this about them, Black’s
support would grow faster than a newly-hatched dragon left in a butcher’s
shop, Amelia thought. She raised her eyebrows. “I can assure you that there is
no danger of a coup.” Even if only because Granger and Black knew that they
were winning anyway.
support would grow faster than a newly-hatched dragon left in a butcher’s
shop, Amelia thought. She raised her eyebrows. “I can assure you that there is
no danger of a coup.” Even if only because Granger and Black knew that they
were winning anyway.
Beaumont snorted. “You’re rather more evasive than your reputation claims. So,
I will be more direct myself: Sirius Black and his muggleborn allies are
taking over. That is a cause of concern for the ICW. Their extremist views are
well-known.”
I will be more direct myself: Sirius Black and his muggleborn allies are
taking over. That is a cause of concern for the ICW. Their extremist views are
well-known.”
She had a source in the Wizengamot or the Ministry, Amelia thought. She
sounded too certain to be trusting an outside source. “There’s no reason for
concern. They didn’t endanger the Statute during the war, after all.”
sounded too certain to be trusting an outside source. “There’s no reason for
concern. They didn’t endanger the Statute during the war, after all.”
“That may be so, but things and views change. It has been decided that in
order to fulfill our mandate, we will have to meet with them.”
order to fulfill our mandate, we will have to meet with them.”
“You already did,” Amelia said. “Mister Reid spoke with Black and his allies
at the reception.”
at the reception.”
“That was simply a courtesy call,” Beaumont said.
“You would know, of course.” Amelia was certain that the French witch didn’t
know what they had been talking about either. She didn’t think either Steiner
or Beaumont talked to Reid much, if at all. “I can inform them that you wish a
meeting.”
know what they had been talking about either. She didn’t think either Steiner
or Beaumont talked to Reid much, if at all. “I can inform them that you wish a
meeting.”
“Thank you.” Beaumont smiled again, and once more nodded politely, if slightly
condescendingly, at Amelia.
condescendingly, at Amelia.
Beaumont could arrange a meeting herself, maybe even more easily than Amelia,
given that Black had apparently taken a French Veela as a mistress. Unless, of
course, there were French politics at work.
given that Black had apparently taken a French Veela as a mistress. Unless, of
course, there were French politics at work.
Amelia was already soured on British and international politics; she really
didn’t want to deal with the domestic policy of foreign nations. And she could
only hope that both Black and Granger would show some restraint when meeting
with a foreign diplomat.
didn’t want to deal with the domestic policy of foreign nations. And she could
only hope that both Black and Granger would show some restraint when meeting
with a foreign diplomat.
---
**London, East End, March 13th, 1997**
Meeting a Jamaican houngan in a muggle safe house in a rather deserted part of
London’s East End — not too close to the home of the Resistance — might not
have seemed the best choice at first glance, Hermione Granger thought while
looking out through the window on the empty street below. But meeting Reid in
Grimmauld Place had been deemed too dangerous by everyone. Despite the claims
of traditionalists, the laws of hospitality were, in reality, more in the
nature of guidelines. She wouldn’t put it past a houngan to exploit the
opportunity for his own purposes. Hogwarts and the Hog’s Head Inn had been
dismissed for the same reasons, and no one wanted to meet Reid in a clearing
in a forest at night.
London’s East End — not too close to the home of the Resistance — might not
have seemed the best choice at first glance, Hermione Granger thought while
looking out through the window on the empty street below. But meeting Reid in
Grimmauld Place had been deemed too dangerous by everyone. Despite the claims
of traditionalists, the laws of hospitality were, in reality, more in the
nature of guidelines. She wouldn’t put it past a houngan to exploit the
opportunity for his own purposes. Hogwarts and the Hog’s Head Inn had been
dismissed for the same reasons, and no one wanted to meet Reid in a clearing
in a forest at night.
So, they had settled for one of the safe houses the Resistance had prepared.
That gave them the advantage of having plans to secure it already — Tania and
Seamus were providing backup outside, with John. They wouldn’t be listening in
since some of the things they might end up talking about were too dangerous
even for her friends in the Resistance to know, but they were ready to act if
given a signal.
That gave them the advantage of having plans to secure it already — Tania and
Seamus were providing backup outside, with John. They wouldn’t be listening in
since some of the things they might end up talking about were too dangerous
even for her friends in the Resistance to know, but they were ready to act if
given a signal.
Hermione felt guilty about excluding them while they were helping her and her
friends, but there were more secrets than her own at stake. And it wasn’t as
if she hadn’t kept important things from them before. Like Allan’s fate.
friends, but there were more secrets than her own at stake. And it wasn’t as
if she hadn’t kept important things from them before. Like Allan’s fate.
She glanced back at the others in the living room of the safe house. Sirius
was twirling his wand between his fingers and kept shifting around on the
couch. Remus was studying the books on the small shelf — Hermione had stacked
it with several useful reference books and a variety of novels meant to
provide some entertainment for the Resistance, should they have to use the
safe house. Harry was sitting in an armchair, tapping his foot on the floor,
and Ron was flipping through the channels of the TV.
was twirling his wand between his fingers and kept shifting around on the
couch. Remus was studying the books on the small shelf — Hermione had stacked
it with several useful reference books and a variety of novels meant to
provide some entertainment for the Resistance, should they have to use the
safe house. Harry was sitting in an armchair, tapping his foot on the floor,
and Ron was flipping through the channels of the TV.
“Should have cast some wards,” she heard Sirius mutter.
Remus paused in his skimming through a copy of Jane Austen, and turned his
head towards the animagus. “Since the intention is to invite Mister Reid,
wards wouldn’t do us any good.”
head towards the animagus. “Since the intention is to invite Mister Reid,
wards wouldn’t do us any good.”
“They’d stop his zombies.”
“I sincerely doubt that he has had the opportunity to create any zombies — of
any type — in Britain. And even if he had, the diplomatic backlash would make
it unlikely that he would do so.” Remus smiled faintly.
any type — in Britain. And even if he had, the diplomatic backlash would make
it unlikely that he would do so.” Remus smiled faintly.
Sirius scoffed. “He’s a houngan; he doesn’t need zombies to attack us.”
“In which case the wards wouldn’t be of any use, as I have pointed out
already.”
already.”
Sirius bared his teeth — Hermione told herself to research whether animagi
took on aspects of their animal form — and hissed. “But we’d be doing
something other than waiting!”
took on aspects of their animal form — and hissed. “But we’d be doing
something other than waiting!”
“You could watch the telly with me,” Ron said.
“We could — if you’d ever stop switching channels,” Harry said.
“Hey — I don’t want to miss anything!” Ron said.
“And that’s why you’re missing everything.” Harry shook his head. “Give me the
remote.”
remote.”
“Get your own!” Ron said.
Hermione’s radio chirped just when it looked as if the two boys would start to
wrestle. “A cab’s driving up the street,” she heard Tania say while everyone
stopped what they were doing, and looked at her. “They’re getting out… it’s
Reid. And two others.”
wrestle. “A cab’s driving up the street,” she heard Tania say while everyone
stopped what they were doing, and looked at her. “They’re getting out… it’s
Reid. And two others.”
“Or someone using polyjuice,” Hermione muttered. She tapped her radio. ‘Keep
them in your sights.’ Looking at the others, she added: “They’re coming.”
them in your sights.’ Looking at the others, she added: “They’re coming.”
“Cab’s leaving,” Tania informed her. Hermione wondered if they had hired the
cab, or simply mind-controlled the driver, then berated herself silently for
assuming the worst of the houngan. Even though Sirius insisted that doing so
was just being prudent.
cab, or simply mind-controlled the driver, then berated herself silently for
assuming the worst of the houngan. Even though Sirius insisted that doing so
was just being prudent.
Then the doorbell rang, and Hermione glanced at Ron, who turned the TV off
while Sirius and Remus went downstairs to open the door. A minute later, the
houngan, in a white suit, stepped into the room, followed by two of his
assistants, and Sirius and Remus.
while Sirius and Remus went downstairs to open the door. A minute later, the
houngan, in a white suit, stepped into the room, followed by two of his
assistants, and Sirius and Remus.
“Good evening, Mister Potter, Mister Weasley, Miss Granger.”
“Good evening,” Harry and Hermione said while Ron nodded. They had spread out
a bit — just in case, with Ron and Hermione flanking Harry.
a bit — just in case, with Ron and Hermione flanking Harry.
Reid took a seat in an armchair while his two assistants — two men who might
be zombies, Hermione thought, given their lack of expressions — took up
positions behind and to the side of him.
be zombies, Hermione thought, given their lack of expressions — took up
positions behind and to the side of him.
Sirius sat down on the couch himself, and Remus leaned against the wall behind
him.
him.
For a moment, no one said anything, then Sirius leaned forward — he wasn’t
holding his wand any more, she noticed — and nodded. “So, you wanted to meet
us. Here we are,” he said in a tone that made Hermione wonder how he managed
not to alienate everyone in the Wizengamot.
holding his wand any more, she noticed — and nodded. “So, you wanted to meet
us. Here we are,” he said in a tone that made Hermione wonder how he managed
not to alienate everyone in the Wizengamot.
Reid seemed to be more amused than offended, though. “Here you are, indeed —
the ones who have defeated Voldemort and are about to take Britain.”
the ones who have defeated Voldemort and are about to take Britain.”
Hermione bit her lower lip to avoid correcting the houngan that it was
Wizarding Britain and that they would be reforming it, not taking it.
Wizarding Britain and that they would be reforming it, not taking it.
Sirius shrugged. “Voldemort thought that he had won when Dumbledore died. He
was wrong.”
was wrong.”
“Ah, yes, Dumbledore’s death. We have talked about it, haven’t we?” Reid had a
faint accent, Hermione realised, but it was hard to notice given how raspy his
voice sounded — and far less of an accent than she’d have expected from a
Jamaican native.
faint accent, Hermione realised, but it was hard to notice given how raspy his
voice sounded — and far less of an accent than she’d have expected from a
Jamaican native.
“You claimed that he had stolen something from your island.” Sirius crossed
his arms.
his arms.
“Indeed, I did.” Reid smiled, and as at their first meeting at the reception,
Hermione fought not to shudder at the state of his yellowed teeth. This time,
though, he must have noticed her reaction since he turned to look at her, and
smiled even more widely. “Do I make you uncomfortable, Miss Granger? Age is
not always kind, and rarely pretty.”
Hermione fought not to shudder at the state of his yellowed teeth. This time,
though, he must have noticed her reaction since he turned to look at her, and
smiled even more widely. “Do I make you uncomfortable, Miss Granger? Age is
not always kind, and rarely pretty.”
“I was just reminded of my parents’ work, Mister Reid,” she said, smiling
tightly.
tightly.
Harry suddenly coughed in his fist, followed a second later by Ron snorting.
“And what do your parents do?” Reid’s smile had grown thin.
“They’re dentists,” Hermione said. She didn’t elaborate, and while he nodded,
she wasn’t certain that he had understood. But he was not smiling at her
anymore.
she wasn’t certain that he had understood. But he was not smiling at her
anymore.
“Let us return to the matter at hand,” Sirius said. “You mentioned something
that was stolen from you, which you want returned.”
that was stolen from you, which you want returned.”
“Yes, I did indeed.” Reid nodded slowly.
“What exactly are you trying to recover?” Sirius still had his arms crossed.
“I think you know what I’m talking about.”
“I certainly do not.”
For the first time, the houngan seemed to frown. “An enchanted skull
containing lore from my country. Stolen from our most sacred place — a crime
we will not let pass.”
containing lore from my country. Stolen from our most sacred place — a crime
we will not let pass.”
“And you suspect Dumbledore. Who is already dead, though. And we didn’t find
any skull among his belongings. No human skull, at least.”
any skull among his belongings. No human skull, at least.”
“Ah.” Reid’s smile was back. “You know about it.”
Denying that they knew more about the Library of Souls wouldn’t serve any
purpose, Hermione thought. Sirius shrugged anyway. “What else could it be? I
doubt you’d use animal skulls for your most sacred place.”
purpose, Hermione thought. Sirius shrugged anyway. “What else could it be? I
doubt you’d use animal skulls for your most sacred place.”
“You would be surprised, indeed.”
“But as I told you — there was no skull with Dumbledore.”
“As a well-known master of Transfiguration, he could have changed it into
anything,” Reid said. “I know a spell to find it, though, no matter its
shape.”
anything,” Reid said. “I know a spell to find it, though, no matter its
shape.”
“I’d have thought that such skulls were protected against spells,” Sirius
said. “But if you know such a spell, then it should be easy for you to find
the skull, wouldn’t it?”
said. “But if you know such a spell, then it should be easy for you to find
the skull, wouldn’t it?”
“The range of the spell is somewhat limited,” Reid admitted. “I will require
entrance to Hogwarts, to verify your claims.”
entrance to Hogwarts, to verify your claims.”
Sirius snorted. “Hogwarts’ wards are rather particular about some visitors.”
Hermione hadn’t read about that in Hogwarts: A History, but the Marauders
would have had to study the wards quite closely to create their map, so she
couldn’t tell if Sirius was lying or not.
would have had to study the wards quite closely to create their map, so she
couldn’t tell if Sirius was lying or not.
“A guest would be admitted, though. Didn’t Karkaroff visit during the
tournament?”
tournament?”
“He wasn’t a houngan. And we don’t control Hogwarts.” Sirius spread his hands
apart.
apart.
“You have a lot of influence there, though.”
“Not really. McGonagall still hasn’t forgiven me for all the rule-breaking we
did in our time.” Sirius grinned.
did in our time.” Sirius grinned.
Reid obviously didn’t appreciate the levity. He scoffed. “I told you how
important this is to my country. You persist in such antics at your own — and
others’ — peril.” His assistants didn’t move an inch, nor show any reaction
despite the tension in the room skyrocketing. The houngan glanced at Harry.
“Many sing your praises, boy, but no one could tell how you did it. Dumbledore
was feared for his power. You ain’t.”
important this is to my country. You persist in such antics at your own — and
others’ — peril.” His assistants didn’t move an inch, nor show any reaction
despite the tension in the room skyrocketing. The houngan glanced at Harry.
“Many sing your praises, boy, but no one could tell how you did it. Dumbledore
was feared for his power. You ain’t.”
“I don’t want to be feared,” Harry said. “I don’t like threats, though.”
Hermione’s finger hovered over the button for her radio. If this was just a
ploy by Reid to create an excuse to attack them…
ploy by Reid to create an excuse to attack them…
Reid didn’t relax, but he didn’t seem to press the threat. “If you refuse to
let me check Hogwarts as a guest, then I will be forced to use other means to
find the skull. Means Britain wouldn’t like, indeed.” He cocked his head. “And
a refusal to let us search for our stolen treasure would make you appear quite
suspicious.”
let me check Hogwarts as a guest, then I will be forced to use other means to
find the skull. Means Britain wouldn’t like, indeed.” He cocked his head. “And
a refusal to let us search for our stolen treasure would make you appear quite
suspicious.”
“What assurances can you give that you won’t use such a visit to cause us or
anyone else harm?” Remus cut in.
anyone else harm?” Remus cut in.
“I would expect the Vanquishers of Voldemort to be able to tell if I did
anything out of bounds while under their eyes.” Reid was smiling again. As if
they’d let him enter the school without iron-clad safeguards in place!
anything out of bounds while under their eyes.” Reid was smiling again. As if
they’d let him enter the school without iron-clad safeguards in place!
“Hogwarts is our Library of Souls,” Sirius said, growling again. “In a manner
of speaking.”
of speaking.”
“Then you should understand our grievances, indeed.”
It was a closer analogy than Sirius might have realised, Hermione thought.
Hogwarts was the heart of Wizarding Britain. Each British wizard or witch
learned magic there, and its library contained the country’s knowledge.
Hogwarts was the heart of Wizarding Britain. Each British wizard or witch
learned magic there, and its library contained the country’s knowledge.
And woe to whoever harmed it.
---
**North of Magical Port Royal, Jamaica, March 13th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood hated posing as a muggle. He might have taken muggle studies
as a student, mostly out of morbid curiosity, but that had been decades ago,
and if he had learned anything, then it was that muggle customs changed all
the time. And he hadn’t kept up with muggle customs since graduating.
as a student, mostly out of morbid curiosity, but that had been decades ago,
and if he had learned anything, then it was that muggle customs changed all
the time. And he hadn’t kept up with muggle customs since graduating.
But acting like a muggle was the safest way for a British wizard to travel to
and around Jamaica. Especially a British wizard with a skull stolen from the
Library of Souls — if the houngans caught him, he would be facing a fate worse
than death. Far worse.
and around Jamaica. Especially a British wizard with a skull stolen from the
Library of Souls — if the houngans caught him, he would be facing a fate worse
than death. Far worse.
Posing as a muggle had one drawback, though, Augustus thought while studying
the muggle town near Magical Port Royal through a telescope — he had no way to
easily enter Jamaica’s capital. Port Royal had been one of Britain’s greatest
accomplishments in recent times. Right after the Statute of Secrecy had gone
into effect, they had hidden the entire town from the muggles by making them
think it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1692. The pearl of the Caribbean,
freed of the muggle filth in one elegant move.
the muggle town near Magical Port Royal through a telescope — he had no way to
easily enter Jamaica’s capital. Port Royal had been one of Britain’s greatest
accomplishments in recent times. Right after the Statute of Secrecy had gone
into effect, they had hidden the entire town from the muggles by making them
think it was destroyed in an earthquake in 1692. The pearl of the Caribbean,
freed of the muggle filth in one elegant move.
And then the mongrels had taken it from Britain, together with the entire
island, when they had revolted right in the middle of a goblin rebellion.
Augustus pressed his lips together. The houngans had a lot to answer for.
island, when they had revolted right in the middle of a goblin rebellion.
Augustus pressed his lips together. The houngans had a lot to answer for.
He sighed. They would, in time, but he had to focus on his immediate needs
first. He needed the knowledge contained in that skull, but without the help
of a houngan, he couldn’t access it — the Dark Lord’s notes hadn’t covered
that secret.
first. He needed the knowledge contained in that skull, but without the help
of a houngan, he couldn’t access it — the Dark Lord’s notes hadn’t covered
that secret.
Fortunately, he didn’t actually have to enter the town. He collapsed the
telescope and stood up.
telescope and stood up.
---
An hour later, his patience and self-control were severely taxed. He was
surrounded by muggles, half-naked muggles even, gathered on a filthy beach.
Loud, noisy children were playing in the sand and the surf while their parents
tried their best to get a sunburn. Fools, the lot of them! If only he could
curse them all, and cleanse the beach.
surrounded by muggles, half-naked muggles even, gathered on a filthy beach.
Loud, noisy children were playing in the sand and the surf while their parents
tried their best to get a sunburn. Fools, the lot of them! If only he could
curse them all, and cleanse the beach.
But Augustus needed the brats for his plan. He raised his wand, hidden behind
one of the nonsensical muggle newspapers, and looked at the father of a
particularly obnoxious brat. “Excuse me, sir.”
one of the nonsensical muggle newspapers, and looked at the father of a
particularly obnoxious brat. “Excuse me, sir.”
“Yes?”
“Legilimens!” Augustus whispered when the muggle looked up and their eyes met.
A minute later, he knew where the family was staying. Now he just needed to
vanish and then wait until the spoiled boy threw his next tantrum.
A minute later, he knew where the family was staying. Now he just needed to
vanish and then wait until the spoiled boy threw his next tantrum.
It took longer than Augustus had expected, and, even with magic, standing
while disillusioned in the middle of a packed beach was wearing. But when the
overweight sprog was refused another ice cream, he finally started to wail.
Augustus smiled and moved his wand, and a miniature sandstorm sprang up around
the brat, hiding him from sight and scaring the muggles nearby. He almost
chuckled at the sight of the fools staring at something incomprehensible to
their limited minds when the local Obliviators appeared.
while disillusioned in the middle of a packed beach was wearing. But when the
overweight sprog was refused another ice cream, he finally started to wail.
Augustus smiled and moved his wand, and a miniature sandstorm sprang up around
the brat, hiding him from sight and scaring the muggles nearby. He almost
chuckled at the sight of the fools staring at something incomprehensible to
their limited minds when the local Obliviators appeared.
Soon, the sandstorm was dispersed and the muggles taken care of. And, as
Augustus had hoped, one of the Obliviators noted the name and address of the
family whose boy had apparently had a bout of accidental magic.
Augustus had hoped, one of the Obliviators noted the name and address of the
family whose boy had apparently had a bout of accidental magic.
He smiled. Dumbledore had forced the houngans to stop their disgusting
practice of kidnapping mudblood children to raise as houngans. But with him
gone, Augustus was certain that the mongrels would start up again. And the
spell on the muggle boy would lead him right to the hideout of whoever wanted
to pollute their bloodline.
practice of kidnapping mudblood children to raise as houngans. But with him
gone, Augustus was certain that the mongrels would start up again. And the
spell on the muggle boy would lead him right to the hideout of whoever wanted
to pollute their bloodline.
And he would acquire the knowledge he needed.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 13th, 1997**
The side alley looked like any other alley, no matter how long Bess Cox stared
at it. It should look different, she thought. Teddy had died there, killed by
an Auror while ‘resisting arrest’. She clenched her teeth — Teddy had been the
first of her friends to die. Now only she was left of their group. Mark and
Ricky had been killed in Hogsmeade, and Felix had been captured and then
executed by the Ministry. Bess had been the only one to escape that day, three
months ago.
at it. It should look different, she thought. Teddy had died there, killed by
an Auror while ‘resisting arrest’. She clenched her teeth — Teddy had been the
first of her friends to die. Now only she was left of their group. Mark and
Ricky had been killed in Hogsmeade, and Felix had been captured and then
executed by the Ministry. Bess had been the only one to escape that day, three
months ago.
She turned away, pushing her hands into the pockets of her jacket — it was
still rather cold, especially in the evening — as she walked down Diagon
Alley. She had thought a lot about their disastrous attack on the Death Eaters
in Hogsmeade while she had been hiding in muggle London. Dumbledore was at
fault — if he and his French friends hadn’t attacked them, Bess’s friends
would still be alive. The old wizard had even called them criminals, just for
fighting the Dark Lord’s followers!
still rather cold, especially in the evening — as she walked down Diagon
Alley. She had thought a lot about their disastrous attack on the Death Eaters
in Hogsmeade while she had been hiding in muggle London. Dumbledore was at
fault — if he and his French friends hadn’t attacked them, Bess’s friends
would still be alive. The old wizard had even called them criminals, just for
fighting the Dark Lord’s followers!
But now Dumbledore was dead, and the Ministry was collapsing. The muggleborns
had returned to Wizarding Britain, too powerful for the Aurors to persecute.
She smiled when she remembered how the purebloods who had profited from the
expulsion and persecution of the muggleborns had run. The same Aurors who had
persecuted muggleborns before hadn’t been able to do anything!
had returned to Wizarding Britain, too powerful for the Aurors to persecute.
She smiled when she remembered how the purebloods who had profited from the
expulsion and persecution of the muggleborns had run. The same Aurors who had
persecuted muggleborns before hadn’t been able to do anything!
She slowed down when she heard music — muggle music — from the reopened
muggle-style bar ‘Winston’s’ ahead, and her smile grew wider. It looked as if
Toby, the owner, had bought a few new records! Bess was about twenty metres
away from the entrance when the half a dozen people arguing with the bouncer
there vanished in an explosion.
muggle-style bar ‘Winston’s’ ahead, and her smile grew wider. It looked as if
Toby, the owner, had bought a few new records! Bess was about twenty metres
away from the entrance when the half a dozen people arguing with the bouncer
there vanished in an explosion.
For a moment, she stood there, frozen with shock and horror as stone fragments
fell down around her and a cloud of dust obscured the scene. She heard people
screaming and saw spells flashing, followed by more explosions.
fell down around her and a cloud of dust obscured the scene. She heard people
screaming and saw spells flashing, followed by more explosions.
She was fumbling for her wand when a figure stepped out of the thinning cloud
of dust, walking slowly towards her. His face was slack, his eyes seemed to
lack focus — but his wand rose, and before Bess could react, the man next to
her was struck by a curse that threw him back several metres.
of dust, walking slowly towards her. His face was slack, his eyes seemed to
lack focus — but his wand rose, and before Bess could react, the man next to
her was struck by a curse that threw him back several metres.
She screamed and jumped to the side, towards the closest side alley. Behind
her, another, smaller explosion threw up cobblestones, one of them clipping
her shoulder and sending her sprawling. Shaking her head, panting, she cried
out when pain lanced through her and clutched her shoulder.
her, another, smaller explosion threw up cobblestones, one of them clipping
her shoulder and sending her sprawling. Shaking her head, panting, she cried
out when pain lanced through her and clutched her shoulder.
Glancing back, she saw her attacker was still walking slowly in her direction,
expressionless eyes staring at her, waving his wand.
expressionless eyes staring at her, waving his wand.
“Protego!”
Just pushing her own wand out to cast a Shield Charm made her shoulder flare
up with more pain, but it stopped the man’s curse and saved her life. She
tried to scramble away, but the pain that caused was too much, and she fell
down, screaming when her wounded shoulder hit the ground. Her shield had
vanished, and she clutched her shoulder, trying to recast it, but failing.
up with more pain, but it stopped the man’s curse and saved her life. She
tried to scramble away, but the pain that caused was too much, and she fell
down, screaming when her wounded shoulder hit the ground. Her shield had
vanished, and she clutched her shoulder, trying to recast it, but failing.
Tears streamed down her cheeks when she saw the man was still advancing, with
slow, measured steps.
slow, measured steps.
“ReductAHH!”
She fumbled the wand movement, and the pain made her mess up the incantation,
and what should have blown the man’s chest open did nothing except push him
back a step. His wand was rising, its tip glowing, but his expression didn’t
change at all.
and what should have blown the man’s chest open did nothing except push him
back a step. His wand was rising, its tip glowing, but his expression didn’t
change at all.
She screamed, and didn’t stop screaming even when the man’s head blew up,
blood and bone fragments splashing against the wall.
blood and bone fragments splashing against the wall.
Chapter 52: Under Pressure
==========================
I’d like to thank fredfred and brianna-xox for betaing. Their help has
improved the story a lot.
improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 52: Under Pressure**
‘*An attack such as the one on ’Winston’s’, a bar in Diagon Alley frequented
by muggleborns, wasn’t unexpected. Both the Ministry and the Muggleborn
Resistance had anticipated such an attack — the opportunity provided by the
ICW’s inspection was simply too great for those trying to destabilise
Wizarding Britain. And yet, even having anticipated such an incident, they had
trouble dealing with its consequences. In that regard, the incident served to
demonstrate quite clearly how the balance of power in Wizarding Britain had
been changed by the Second Blood War.’*
by muggleborns, wasn’t unexpected. Both the Ministry and the Muggleborn
Resistance had anticipated such an attack — the opportunity provided by the
ICW’s inspection was simply too great for those trying to destabilise
Wizarding Britain. And yet, even having anticipated such an incident, they had
trouble dealing with its consequences. In that regard, the incident served to
demonstrate quite clearly how the balance of power in Wizarding Britain had
been changed by the Second Blood War.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 13th, 1997**
Hermione Granger drew a hissing breath when she saw the carnage in Diagon
Alley. An attack on muggleborns, in the economic heart of Wizarding Britain,
right when the country was being inspected by the ICW… this could be
devastating, if things got out of control.
Alley. An attack on muggleborns, in the economic heart of Wizarding Britain,
right when the country was being inspected by the ICW… this could be
devastating, if things got out of control.
Ron wasn’t as restrained. “Bloody hell!”
She didn’t catch what Harry muttered under his breath, but after the better
part of a week in the care of their muggle instructors, she doubted it was
printable. She did catch what Sirius said, and she knew that his comment was
unprintable.
part of a week in the care of their muggle instructors, she doubted it was
printable. She did catch what Sirius said, and she knew that his comment was
unprintable.
Unfortunately, it was justified. There was a crater in the street, part of the
bar’s front was caved in and more debris was strewn across the width of the
Alley. She saw at least half a dozen bodies covered by sheets, laid out next
to the crater. A lot of people were gathered in the Alley. A perfect target
for a follow-up strike, she realised.
bar’s front was caved in and more debris was strewn across the width of the
Alley. She saw at least half a dozen bodies covered by sheets, laid out next
to the crater. A lot of people were gathered in the Alley. A perfect target
for a follow-up strike, she realised.
She tapped her radio’s button. “This is Hermione. We’ve arrived on site.”
Late, unfortunately — they had still been at Grimmauld Place, discussing the
houngans’ demands with Sirius, when the news had reached them.
Late, unfortunately — they had still been at Grimmauld Place, discussing the
houngans’ demands with Sirius, when the news had reached them.
“We’re in the shoe shop nearby,” Justin answered her. “Sally-Anne’s treating
the wounded who don’t want to go to St Mungo’s. Tania and Seamus are up in the
air.”
the wounded who don’t want to go to St Mungo’s. Tania and Seamus are up in the
air.”
She glanced up but couldn’t spot them. They had to be high enough to be out of
the range of her Human-presence-revealing spell.
the range of her Human-presence-revealing spell.
“I’m checking with witnesses,” she heard John over the radio.
“Let’s head to the witnesses,” Hermione said, both into her microphone as well
as to her friends. “Stay with me,” she added when she saw Sirius was about to
move towards the crater.
as to her friends. “Stay with me,” she added when she saw Sirius was about to
move towards the crater.
“Huh?” He turned towards her.
Stepping closer, she whispered: “You’re wearing robes.”
He blinked, then looked at the crowd, all of them wearing muggle clothes. “But
why would that…”
why would that…”
“Not everyone knows you on sight,” Harry cut in.
“Ah.” Sirius shook his head. “Just two years ago, I had to avoid being
recognised to be safe…”
recognised to be safe…”
She snorted while they made their way towards John, whom she had spotted on
the other side of the Alley — close to the shop Justin had mentioned. The
muggleborn was easy to spot thanks to his fatigues — like herself.
the other side of the Alley — close to the shop Justin had mentioned. The
muggleborn was easy to spot thanks to his fatigues — like herself.
“It’s Granger!”
“And Potter!”
The cries quickly spread through the gathered crowd — and the mood rapidly
started to change.
started to change.
“Purebloods attacked us!”
“Hermione, give ’em hell!”
“Kill the bastards!”
“Revenge!”
“They still try to murder us!”
“Kill ’em all!”
“Kill them!”
Cursing under her breath, she stopped trying to reach John. They had to stop
this, at once, before it was too late. A flick of her wand conjured a
pedestal, and a swish enlarged it, pushing a few people who had stepped too
close to their group away. She cast an Amplifying Charm while she climbed on
to the makeshift stage, trying to gather her thoughts. If she messed this up…
this, at once, before it was too late. A flick of her wand conjured a
pedestal, and a swish enlarged it, pushing a few people who had stepped too
close to their group away. She cast an Amplifying Charm while she climbed on
to the makeshift stage, trying to gather her thoughts. If she messed this up…
She shook her head. “Everyone, listen! Those who attacked us here, those who
killed our friends here, they want us to lash out in anger! They want us to
become like them — to attack people just because of their blood! I know you
want revenge — we all lost friends to those monsters — but we can’t just
attack any purebloods!”
killed our friends here, they want us to lash out in anger! They want us to
become like them — to attack people just because of their blood! I know you
want revenge — we all lost friends to those monsters — but we can’t just
attack any purebloods!”
“Of course we can!” Someone yelled from the back. “Enough is enough! Let’s
kill ’em all!”
kill ’em all!”
Some in the crowd yelled back, but others supported the heckler. Hermione bit
her lower lip, then spoke up again: “Do you want to be like the Death Eaters?
Do you want to kill pureblood families? Children?”
her lower lip, then spoke up again: “Do you want to be like the Death Eaters?
Do you want to kill pureblood families? Children?”
For a moment, the crowd grew silent, and Hermione thought she had won them
over. Then the heckler yelled again: “There are no children in the
Wizengamot!”
over. Then the heckler yelled again: “There are no children in the
Wizengamot!”
Another voice rose over the noise — aided by an Amplifying Charm: “There are
no children in the Ministry either!”
no children in the Ministry either!”
“Where’s the Ministry anyway? I don’t see any red robes!” the first heckler
joined in.
joined in.
Hermione had a good idea where the Aurors were — staying out of sight so they
didn’t get lynched. She wanted to curse the damned heckler, but that would
make her a hypocrite. “Many purebloods fought Voldemort,” she said instead.
“Do you want to kill them too?”
didn’t get lynched. She wanted to curse the damned heckler, but that would
make her a hypocrite. “Many purebloods fought Voldemort,” she said instead.
“Do you want to kill them too?”
“Where are those purebloods now?” the man yelled back.
Hermione was livid — so many friends and Order members had died fighting
Voldemort, and that cretin was acting as if they had done nothing! But before
she could yell back and ask where the idiot himself had been during the war,
Harry stepped up on the stage.
Voldemort, and that cretin was acting as if they had done nothing! But before
she could yell back and ask where the idiot himself had been during the war,
Harry stepped up on the stage.
“They’re here,” he said, pointing at Sirius and Ron, who followed him up on to
the now crowded stage. “My godfather, Sirius Black. My best friend, Ron
Weasley. Both purebloods. Both of them fought Voldemort himself here in the
Alley. And so did their families. Purebloods, and half-bloods too. And so did
many more — they fought and died fighting Death Eaters. Like the Resistance.
Like myself. We all fought together. We can’t let a few madmen tear us apart
now.”
the now crowded stage. “My godfather, Sirius Black. My best friend, Ron
Weasley. Both purebloods. Both of them fought Voldemort himself here in the
Alley. And so did their families. Purebloods, and half-bloods too. And so did
many more — they fought and died fighting Death Eaters. Like the Resistance.
Like myself. We all fought together. We can’t let a few madmen tear us apart
now.”
The crowd fell silent, then started to yell their agreement. Hermione sighed
with relief. They had done it. Or rather, Harry had done it, she thought with
a tiny bit of jealousy.
with relief. They had done it. Or rather, Harry had done it, she thought with
a tiny bit of jealousy.
And she had learned two things. She needed to work a little more on her speech
for tomorrow’s Wizengamot session. And Harry was needed in politics.
for tomorrow’s Wizengamot session. And Harry was needed in politics.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 14th, 1997**
The Minister for Magic was not looking well, Sirius Black thought when he
entered Bones’s office. Too tense, too stressed. Alas, her state wasn’t the
result of his and his friends’ efforts to tear the Wizengamot down. Although
she was still too inflexible, of course. Thicknesse was looking as he always
did — unflappable, or as close to it as was humanly possible, in Sirius’s
opinion. “Good morning, Amelia. Good morning, Pius.”
entered Bones’s office. Too tense, too stressed. Alas, her state wasn’t the
result of his and his friends’ efforts to tear the Wizengamot down. Although
she was still too inflexible, of course. Thicknesse was looking as he always
did — unflappable, or as close to it as was humanly possible, in Sirius’s
opinion. “Good morning, Amelia. Good morning, Pius.”
“Good morning, Sirius,” she said, her expression stating that the morning was
anything but good. Thicknesse simply nodded.
anything but good. Thicknesse simply nodded.
She had a point, of course — it was why he was here, in her office, instead of
at home, preparing for today’s session in the Wizengamot. “What did your
people find out about yesterday’s attack in Diagon Alley?” he said, sitting
down and crossing his legs in the slightly too casual manner he knew the witch
hated.
at home, preparing for today’s session in the Wizengamot. “What did your
people find out about yesterday’s attack in Diagon Alley?” he said, sitting
down and crossing his legs in the slightly too casual manner he knew the witch
hated.
She frowned. “None of the attackers survived. According to the few witnesses
we could interrogate, they acted as if they were under the control of the
Withering Curse — blank expression, unfocused eyes.”
we could interrogate, they acted as if they were under the control of the
Withering Curse — blank expression, unfocused eyes.”
He ignored the implied complaint about the fact that not that many muggleborns
had been willing to talk to the Aurors, when the latter had finally dared to
show up, and nodded. “But their limbs were unaffected.” The Order and the
Resistance might not have the same experience and resources as the
Unspeakables, but they had investigated the incident as well — especially the
bodies of the attackers.
had been willing to talk to the Aurors, when the latter had finally dared to
show up, and nodded. “But their limbs were unaffected.” The Order and the
Resistance might not have the same experience and resources as the
Unspeakables, but they had investigated the incident as well — especially the
bodies of the attackers.
“Yes.” Amelia pressed her lips together. “The Department of Mysteries detected
residue of the Imperius Curse on one of the attackers.”
residue of the Imperius Curse on one of the attackers.”
Sirius narrowed his eyes. “Imperiused victims do not look like the attackers
did.” That was what made the curse so dangerous — you usually couldn’t tell if
someone was affected.
did.” That was what made the curse so dangerous — you usually couldn’t tell if
someone was affected.
“Unless they were ordered to act like it,” she retorted with a faint and — in
his opinion — rather bitter smile.
his opinion — rather bitter smile.
“Ah.” His eyebrows rose. That was something he hadn’t thought of — but it
would make sense. “Someone is trying to stir up more trouble than between the
Ministry and the muggleborns.”
would make sense. “Someone is trying to stir up more trouble than between the
Ministry and the muggleborns.”
“Yes,” she spat out.
Sirius caught Thicknesse glance at the witch, before the Head of the DMLE
spoke up. “While we have no leads on the culprits, the fact that someone is
trying to frame the houngans for the attack points at a foreign origin for
this plot.”
spoke up. “While we have no leads on the culprits, the fact that someone is
trying to frame the houngans for the attack points at a foreign origin for
this plot.”
“The French? Or the Prussians?” Sirius asked, although he had his suspicions
already.
already.
“Both are possible,” Thicknesse said.
Amelia snorted. “The French would love to see Britain and Jamaica at war —
especially if it keeps the British muggleborns pointed across the ocean,
instead of across the Channel.”
especially if it keeps the British muggleborns pointed across the ocean,
instead of across the Channel.”
Sirius saw Thicknesse frown for a moment before the man said: “Both countries
have had issues with muggleborns in the past, and both have also opposed
Dumbledore’s policies regarding that area. The Prussian delegate might not be
prone to using such subterfuge, but that doesn’t mean his government — or
another faction in Prussia — wouldn’t attempt such a plot.”
have had issues with muggleborns in the past, and both have also opposed
Dumbledore’s policies regarding that area. The Prussian delegate might not be
prone to using such subterfuge, but that doesn’t mean his government — or
another faction in Prussia — wouldn’t attempt such a plot.”
“Unlike the Prussians, the French have recently meddled in Britain.” Amelia
stared at Sirius.
stared at Sirius.
He stiffened. “That was a response by the Delacours, after Antoine Delacour
had been struck by one of Voldemort’s traps.”
had been struck by one of Voldemort’s traps.”
“And condoned by the Duc d’Orléans,” Amelia said. ‘Who sent his mistress to
Britain as the French delegate.’ She put her elbows on her desk and folded her
hands. “Do you honestly think the Duc hasn’t milked the surviving Delacours
for all they know, after they fought with the Order and the Resistance, and
inside the Ministry?”
Britain as the French delegate.’ She put her elbows on her desk and folded her
hands. “Do you honestly think the Duc hasn’t milked the surviving Delacours
for all they know, after they fought with the Order and the Resistance, and
inside the Ministry?”
Sirius frowned. He didn’t like what he thought Amelia was getting at — his
relationship with Vivienne wasn’t exactly a secret, but neither was it
publicly known. “Of course the French are concerned about our situation, but
that doesn’t mean they’d go so far as to try to start a war between us and the
houngans.”
relationship with Vivienne wasn’t exactly a secret, but neither was it
publicly known. “Of course the French are concerned about our situation, but
that doesn’t mean they’d go so far as to try to start a war between us and the
houngans.”
“They have more to lose. They took more drastic measures than the Prussians
against muggleborns following the end of Grindelwald’s War,” Amelia said.
against muggleborns following the end of Grindelwald’s War,” Amelia said.
“There are still those in Prussia who adhere to at least some of Grindelwald’s
ideals,” Thicknesse said. “While the country is not quite as welcoming towards
muggleborns as it once was, they do have a stronger voice there than anywhere
else.”
ideals,” Thicknesse said. “While the country is not quite as welcoming towards
muggleborns as it once was, they do have a stronger voice there than anywhere
else.”
“Outside Britain, of course,” Sirius cut in.
“Yes.” Thicknesse nodded, acknowledging the point. Amelia, of course, frowned.
The wizard went on. “However, since the muggleborns are more influential in
Prussia, the Chancellor might be inclined to prevent Britain’s muggleborns
from taking over, fearing that this would lead to his own subjects reaching
out for support.”
The wizard went on. “However, since the muggleborns are more influential in
Prussia, the Chancellor might be inclined to prevent Britain’s muggleborns
from taking over, fearing that this would lead to his own subjects reaching
out for support.”
Sirius wasn’t an expert in Prussian politics, but he was leaning towards the
French being behind this plot. Unless someone wanted the British to believe
that. “Would anyone outside the Department of Mysteries have expected the
investigation to uncover evidence of the Imperius?”
French being behind this plot. Unless someone wanted the British to believe
that. “Would anyone outside the Department of Mysteries have expected the
investigation to uncover evidence of the Imperius?”
“It’s not impossible, but it seems rather unlikely,” Thicknesse replied,
appearing to cut off Amelia’s answer. “Not all of the capabilities of the
Unspeakables are secret, but to predict such a result…”
appearing to cut off Amelia’s answer. “Not all of the capabilities of the
Unspeakables are secret, but to predict such a result…”
“It would just need one traitor in the Corps,” Amelia pointed out with a
sneer. “The Aurors are aware of the forensic capabilities of the Department of
Mysteries.”
sneer. “The Aurors are aware of the forensic capabilities of the Department of
Mysteries.”
Sirius sighed, even though he was quite glad about the apparent rift between
the two. “So, we don’t have a real suspect.”
the two. “So, we don’t have a real suspect.”
“Beaumont wants to meet you and Granger,” Amelia said in an apparent
non-sequitur.
non-sequitur.
Another delegate wanting to meet them, in the middle of a crisis, and with
Reid’s ‘request’ hanging over them as well! Sirius had to force himself to
smile politely and nod, instead of curse. “That can be arranged.” The current
crisis could serve as an excuse to delay such a meeting, but that would make
Britain appear weak. Weaker.
Reid’s ‘request’ hanging over them as well! Sirius had to force himself to
smile politely and nod, instead of curse. “That can be arranged.” The current
crisis could serve as an excuse to delay such a meeting, but that would make
Britain appear weak. Weaker.
“Good,” Amelia said. “The sooner that witch is gone from Britain, the better.”
“If she is behind this plot, then her return to France will not stop
hypothetical agents from continuing their work on her behalf,” Thicknesse
remarked in his calm voice.
hypothetical agents from continuing their work on her behalf,” Thicknesse
remarked in his calm voice.
Sirius couldn’t tell if the man was hinting at Vivienne being a suspect. He
wished he could tell them that his lover was not working for the French,
despite the pressure from some of her family, but that would be breaking her
trust — and he doubted that either Amelia or Thicknesse would believe him
anyway. “We will be careful.” He made a show of checking his watch — a
replacement for the one his uncle had gifted him on his seventeenth birthday,
which had been lost following his arrest in 1981. “However, I need to go now —
the Wizengamot session is starting soon. I can’t miss the debut of my godson’s
friends.”
wished he could tell them that his lover was not working for the French,
despite the pressure from some of her family, but that would be breaking her
trust — and he doubted that either Amelia or Thicknesse would believe him
anyway. “We will be careful.” He made a show of checking his watch — a
replacement for the one his uncle had gifted him on his seventeenth birthday,
which had been lost following his arrest in 1981. “However, I need to go now —
the Wizengamot session is starting soon. I can’t miss the debut of my godson’s
friends.”
The expression on Amelia’s face that appeared in response to that comment made
him smile all the way to the lift.
him smile all the way to the lift.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 14th, 1997**
“Thank you again for doing this for me,” Harry Potter said when he saw
Andromeda enter the entrance hall of Sirius’s — and his — home.
Andromeda enter the entrance hall of Sirius’s — and his — home.
“Serving as your proxy is an honour,” she responded. With a grin that reminded
him a lot of his godfather, she added: “My parents must be turning in their
graves.”
him a lot of his godfather, she added: “My parents must be turning in their
graves.”
Harry smiled. He felt a bit guilty for not mentioning that originally he had
planned to ask her husband to serve at his proxy. He had assumed that Ted
Tonks, being a lawyer and a muggleborn, would have been the better choice.
Sirius had corrected his assumptions, though — apparently, Andromeda’s
temperament was far more suited for politics. “It’s just until my birthday,
though,” he said.
planned to ask her husband to serve at his proxy. He had assumed that Ted
Tonks, being a lawyer and a muggleborn, would have been the better choice.
Sirius had corrected his assumptions, though — apparently, Andromeda’s
temperament was far more suited for politics. “It’s just until my birthday,
though,” he said.
She chuckled. “The Wizengamot might not last that long, anyway. But I’ll serve
faithfully in your stead until then.”
faithfully in your stead until then.”
That had the ring of formality to it, and so he nodded. “Well… just support
Sirius. And Hermione.”
Sirius. And Hermione.”
She sniffed. “Who’d have thought that one day, I’d be following my cousin’s
lead in anything.”
lead in anything.”
“You did follow my lead in rebelling against our misguided family,” Sirius
said from the top of the stairs, grinning at them. “Where’s the rest of our
illustrious gang of esteemed members of the Wizengamot and assorted proxies?”
said from the top of the stairs, grinning at them. “Where’s the rest of our
illustrious gang of esteemed members of the Wizengamot and assorted proxies?”
Andromeda snorted while Harry answered: “Hermione was still going over her
speech in the guest room, and Ron went to fetch her.” He shrugged. “I don’t
know why either is nervous. Ron doesn’t have to do anything but read a few
lines, and Hermione is, as always, over prepared and still she worries.”
speech in the guest room, and Ron went to fetch her.” He shrugged. “I don’t
know why either is nervous. Ron doesn’t have to do anything but read a few
lines, and Hermione is, as always, over prepared and still she worries.”
Sirius chuckled. “Well, says the wizard who will be simply watching from the
audience.”
audience.”
Harry sniffed. “I’m not the one who made the Wizengamot elect me at my tender
age.”
age.”
His godfather looked him over, rubbing his beard. “At least you’re dressed for
the occasion.”
the occasion.”
“You picked out my robes,” Harry retorted.
Sirius nodded. “Indeed. Which is why you look so good.”
Andromeda rolled her eyes. “Are you finished lauding yourself?”
“For the moment, yes. I might have to do it again once Hermione gives her
speech and you can see the heads of the old fossils and young bigots explode.”
Sirius beamed at his cousin.
speech and you can see the heads of the old fossils and young bigots explode.”
Sirius beamed at his cousin.
“I doubt that your esteemed colleagues will show such a blatant lack of
decorum,” Andromeda answered. “That would be too tacky for the Old Families.”
decorum,” Andromeda answered. “That would be too tacky for the Old Families.”
“Right. They would rather topple over dead in dignified silence.” Sirius
nodded. “But we all know that they are hypocrites anyway.”
nodded. “But we all know that they are hypocrites anyway.”
The two Blacks shared toothy smiles, while Harry snuck another glance at the
clock on the wall, wondering what Ron and Hermione were doing… he didn’t think
they would actually do anything, not before such an important event, but… Ah!
clock on the wall, wondering what Ron and Hermione were doing… he didn’t think
they would actually do anything, not before such an important event, but… Ah!
Ron and Hermione appeared at the top of the stairs. Harry almost snorted,
remembering how much of a pain it had been to outfit them. Ron hadn’t wanted
to accept charity, and had taken some persuading to accept from Sirius the
expensive dress robes he was now wearing. Hermione, on the other hand, had no
qualms about accepting Sirius’s gold, but the witch had been wavering for days
over whether or not she’d flout the Wizengamot’s dress code, until Andromeda
had found a recently re-opened muggleborn tailor’s making dress robes that
were sufficiently muggle while still being ‘sufficiently wizarding’, as Ron
had called them.
remembering how much of a pain it had been to outfit them. Ron hadn’t wanted
to accept charity, and had taken some persuading to accept from Sirius the
expensive dress robes he was now wearing. Hermione, on the other hand, had no
qualms about accepting Sirius’s gold, but the witch had been wavering for days
over whether or not she’d flout the Wizengamot’s dress code, until Andromeda
had found a recently re-opened muggleborn tailor’s making dress robes that
were sufficiently muggle while still being ‘sufficiently wizarding’, as Ron
had called them.
“Let’s go, or we’ll be late!” the witch in question said, rushing towards the
fireplace. Harry glanced at Ron, who winced — it didn’t look as if he had
succeeded in calming her down.
fireplace. Harry glanced at Ron, who winced — it didn’t look as if he had
succeeded in calming her down.
“We have been waiting for you,” Sirius said, which caused Hermione to huff
right before she stepped into the green flames.
right before she stepped into the green flames.
“Let’s just get going,” Harry said. There was no point in trying to argue with
her when she was like this.
her when she was like this.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 14th, 1997**
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! I’m proud to have been chosen as a member
of the Wizengamot, and I will do my utmost to keep serving Wizarding Britain
and its people to the best of my abilities.”
of the Wizengamot, and I will do my utmost to keep serving Wizarding Britain
and its people to the best of my abilities.”
Ron Weasley took a bow, and sat down again on his seat. As far as first
speeches went, he had been told by a reliable source that his wasn’t the
shortest by far, but after several hours of listening to Hermione practise
hers, he still felt as if he was slacking off.
speeches went, he had been told by a reliable source that his wasn’t the
shortest by far, but after several hours of listening to Hermione practise
hers, he still felt as if he was slacking off.
“The chair recognises Madam Granger.”
Next to him, Hermione stood up. He could see her taking a deep breath, before
she raised her chin. Ron smiled at the sight of the witch he loved facing down
the assembled Wizengamot with the same expression of determination and
conviction he had grown so familiar with in the years he had known her. No one
who saw the confident witch right now would have thought that she had been
very nervous just a little while ago, at Grimmauld Place.
she raised her chin. Ron smiled at the sight of the witch he loved facing down
the assembled Wizengamot with the same expression of determination and
conviction he had grown so familiar with in the years he had known her. No one
who saw the confident witch right now would have thought that she had been
very nervous just a little while ago, at Grimmauld Place.
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot!” she began, ‘I stand here, not just for
myself, not just for my friends who fought against Voldemort at my side, but
without receiving the same recognition I did, and not just for my fellow
muggleborns.’ She shook her head, and once more Ron missed her long mane. “No,
I stand here for all those who have not had a voice in this assembly until
now: Muggleborns, half-bloods and many purebloods, all those who have not been
born into Old Families.”
myself, not just for my friends who fought against Voldemort at my side, but
without receiving the same recognition I did, and not just for my fellow
muggleborns.’ She shook her head, and once more Ron missed her long mane. “No,
I stand here for all those who have not had a voice in this assembly until
now: Muggleborns, half-bloods and many purebloods, all those who have not been
born into Old Families.”
Many Wizengamot members started whispering in response to that, Ron noticed.
Not just the cronies of Malfoy and Runcorn.
Not just the cronies of Malfoy and Runcorn.
Undaunted, Hermione continued: “This last war has brought Wizarding Britain to
the brink of ruin and opened deep rifts within her population. If our country
is to survive, it must change. No longer will we tolerate a few, simply by
accident of birth, deciding for the many! Everyone — muggleborn, half-blood
and pureblood — needs to have a voice in how the country is governed. Everyone
needs to have a stake in this, needs to know that this country is their
country. Our country. Only then will we have a future without yet another war
laying waste to our beloved country.”
the brink of ruin and opened deep rifts within her population. If our country
is to survive, it must change. No longer will we tolerate a few, simply by
accident of birth, deciding for the many! Everyone — muggleborn, half-blood
and pureblood — needs to have a voice in how the country is governed. Everyone
needs to have a stake in this, needs to know that this country is their
country. Our country. Only then will we have a future without yet another war
laying waste to our beloved country.”
That caused even more murmurs. Ron heard an old wizard near him exclaim
“Preposterous!”
“Preposterous!”
“Just as I did my best to defeat Voldemort, so too will I do my best to
achieve a better Britain for everyone.”
achieve a better Britain for everyone.”
Hermione nodded curtly, and sat down again. Ron reached over to squeeze her
thigh in support, and earned a smile. “You did well,” he whispered. “Scared
the lot of them, I bet, too.”
thigh in support, and earned a smile. “You did well,” he whispered. “Scared
the lot of them, I bet, too.”
“I just hope that I scared them enough for them to stop fighting the
inevitable,” she said.
inevitable,” she said.
“You don’t have to scare all of them, just enough to give us a majority.”
And seeing the glares leveled at them by the bigots, Ron was certain that they
were close.
were close.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, March 14th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass sighed with relief when she stepped out of the fireplace in
the entrance hall of her family’s manor, safely behind her wards. Her manor,
she reminded herself — she couldn’t afford to think like the girl she had
been. She was the head of her family now.
the entrance hall of her family’s manor, safely behind her wards. Her manor,
she reminded herself — she couldn’t afford to think like the girl she had
been. She was the head of her family now.
“How did it go? Did Potter make a speech?”
Astoria had apparently been waiting for her to return, Daphne noticed — her
sister was standing in the door to the hallway, hands behind her back — she’d
be wringing her hands, Daphne knew.
sister was standing in the door to the hallway, hands behind her back — she’d
be wringing her hands, Daphne knew.
She shook her head. “No. He’s not seventeen yet, so he had to pick a proxy. I
told you that.”
told you that.”
“But he’s the Boy-Who-Lived.”
Daphne refrained from rolling her eyes. “That doesn’t make him exempt from the
rules.”
rules.”
Astoria pouted. “It did at Hogwarts.”
“The Wizengamot is not Hogwarts.” Daphne started to walk towards the living
room, then reconsidered. Their ‘guests’ would be there. The metamorphmagus,
and the werewolf. She shuddered, and changed direction. The kitchen would do.
room, then reconsidered. Their ‘guests’ would be there. The metamorphmagus,
and the werewolf. She shuddered, and changed direction. The kitchen would do.
“So, how did it go?” Astoria skipped next to her, craning her neck to look at
Daphne. “In the Wizengamot, I mean.”
Daphne. “In the Wizengamot, I mean.”
Daphne sighed. Her sister was being a pain, even though she could understand
how starved Astoria was for news. “As expected,” she said. “Weasley didn’t say
anything more than what was expected, and Granger announced to everyone that
she wants to destroy the Wizengamot.” Of course, that hadn’t come as a
surprise to anyone with a working brain — which, sadly, excluded half of the
Wizengamot, in Daphne’s opinion.
how starved Astoria was for news. “As expected,” she said. “Weasley didn’t say
anything more than what was expected, and Granger announced to everyone that
she wants to destroy the Wizengamot.” Of course, that hadn’t come as a
surprise to anyone with a working brain — which, sadly, excluded half of the
Wizengamot, in Daphne’s opinion.
“And Potter’s proxy?”
Daphne frowned. No complaint about the mudblood murderer of their parents?
“Why are you so interested in Potter?”
“Why are you so interested in Potter?”
Astoria shrugged. “Everyone is interested in him. He’s the Boy-Who-Lived.”
“His proxy was Black’s cousin.” The only one left alive. “She showed more
decorum and class than Black. More wit too, but it’s a facade — she’s
supporting him and Granger.”
decorum and class than Black. More wit too, but it’s a facade — she’s
supporting him and Granger.”
Astoria nodded slowly. “I see.”
“What?” Daphne asked, opening the door to the kitchen. Then she blinked.
Astoria was sitting at the kitchen table, frozen in the act of loading up a
tray with biscuits.
Astoria was sitting at the kitchen table, frozen in the act of loading up a
tray with biscuits.
“Mistress! Young Mistress told Biffy that she was allowed to!” Their house-elf
squeaked while Astoria flushed.
squeaked while Astoria flushed.
Daphne didn’t care. She whirled around, staring at the Astoria who had walked
with her. “Tonks!”
with her. “Tonks!”
The metamorphmagus’s wide grin was very unlike Astoria’s.
---
Tracey, of course, chuckled when Daphne later told her what had happened. “So,
we know she can fool even you. Theo won’t suspect anything.”
we know she can fool even you. Theo won’t suspect anything.”
“Only if she refrains from grinning like that,” Daphne said, pointing at
Tonks.
Tonks.
“I’ll be the picture of a demure pureblood maiden,” the metamorphmagus said.
Daphne wasn’t the only one who snorted in response to that claim. Even the
werewolf coughed into his hand. “Just complain about the mudblood murderers of
our parents, and otherwise stay silent,” she said. “And best leave once you’ve
tagged him.”
werewolf coughed into his hand. “Just complain about the mudblood murderers of
our parents, and otherwise stay silent,” she said. “And best leave once you’ve
tagged him.”
Tonks shook her head. “That would leave you unguarded.” And unsupervised,
Daphne thought. “And the best opportunity to hit him is to do it when he’s
turning his back to us when he’s leaving.”
Daphne thought. “And the best opportunity to hit him is to do it when he’s
turning his back to us when he’s leaving.”
Daphne filed that information away. Not that it would do her much good — she
was committed now. She nodded. “Very well.” She glanced at the clock on the
wall.
was committed now. She nodded. “Very well.” She glanced at the clock on the
wall.
“I’ll be monitoring the meeting from the guest room,” the werewolf said. He
didn’t say how, of course. “If anything suspicious happens…”
didn’t say how, of course. “If anything suspicious happens…”
“…then you’ll charge in and save us?” Tracey cut in, smiling. Daphne really
hoped that her friend was only acting like this to rile up the metamorphmagus.
Even if that wasn’t exactly a smart course of action either. Not for someone
in their position.
hoped that her friend was only acting like this to rile up the metamorphmagus.
Even if that wasn’t exactly a smart course of action either. Not for someone
in their position.
“…then I’ll be ready to intervene, should you need the help,” he went on.
“Which we won’t,” Tonks said. “I can handle Nott.”
“Provided he arrives alone,” Tracey said.
“I doubt he’d be so rude as to bring strangers to you without sending word
ahead. That’s not done in his circles, is it?”
ahead. That’s not done in his circles, is it?”
The mocking undertone of Tonks’s words was more obvious than the subtle hint
in her mother’s speech in the Wizengamot. Daphne knew that the Auror was a
half-blood, born to a pureblood cast out of her family. Of course she’d have
similar views to the twins’. And maybe similar experiences, she added to
herself.
in her mother’s speech in the Wizengamot. Daphne knew that the Auror was a
half-blood, born to a pureblood cast out of her family. Of course she’d have
similar views to the twins’. And maybe similar experiences, she added to
herself.
---
As it turned out, Theo arrived alone. “Daphne! Tracey! You’re looking well!
You too, Astoria,” he added with a smile at the disguised Tonks.
You too, Astoria,” he added with a smile at the disguised Tonks.
Daphne nodded at him. “So do you, Theo.” In fact, he was in a very good mood,
for someone who had just seen the murderer of his parents join the Wizengamot.
for someone who had just seen the murderer of his parents join the Wizengamot.
“You sound far more chipper than I’d have expected.” Tracey cocked her head,
her expression turning the statement into a question.
her expression turning the statement into a question.
“How could I not be, seeing as others have taken up their wands to strike back
at the mudbloods?” Theo smiled widely. “Britain’s noble spirit has not yet
been squashed under the mudbloods’ heels!”
at the mudbloods?” Theo smiled widely. “Britain’s noble spirit has not yet
been squashed under the mudbloods’ heels!”
Daphne blinked — so it hadn’t been him behind the attack on Diagon Alley? Or
was he simply lying to protect himself? Did he distrust them?
was he simply lying to protect himself? Did he distrust them?
“Have you been reading Lockhart again?” Tracey sniffed. “That sounds like
something he’d write.”
something he’d write.”
Daphne shot a glance at her friend. She was being too direct. And too rude.
“You mean the attack in Diagon Alley.”
“You mean the attack in Diagon Alley.”
“Of course!” Theo seemed to ignore Tracey’s comment. “It showed that we’re not
alone.”
alone.”
“It also riled the mudbloods up,” Tracey said. “They could attack others in
revenge.”
revenge.”
“Yes.” Theo nodded. “And so the mudbloods will show the entire world how
dangerous they are. Other purebloods will flock to Britain to deal with them.”
dangerous they are. Other purebloods will flock to Britain to deal with them.”
Tracey opened her mouth, no doubt to deliver another scathing rebuke, but
Daphne cut her off. “With the ICW delegation in Britain, the eyes of the world
are on us.”
Daphne cut her off. “With the ICW delegation in Britain, the eyes of the world
are on us.”
“Exactly!” Theo grinned. “It’s a unique opportunity. For all of us.”
“It could also be a foreign country meddling in Britain for their own
reasons,” Daphne said. “According to what I heard, the attackers acted like
zombies.” She didn’t have to spell out what that meant.
reasons,” Daphne said. “According to what I heard, the attackers acted like
zombies.” She didn’t have to spell out what that meant.
Theo sneered. “The houngans might be hoping to weaken Britain with this ploy,
but this goes beyond our country. Mudbloods are a danger to everyone. And the
other countries are aware of that.”
but this goes beyond our country. Mudbloods are a danger to everyone. And the
other countries are aware of that.”
“You mean your mysterious ‘friends’ who can’t intervene directly without
‘risking an international incident’.” Tracey scoffed.
‘risking an international incident’.” Tracey scoffed.
Theo glared at her. “They have done more for our cause than you. I thought you
had grown a spine when you voted against Potter, Weasley and Granger, but
apparently, you’re still cowering in fear.”
had grown a spine when you voted against Potter, Weasley and Granger, but
apparently, you’re still cowering in fear.”
“I’m not about to serve as a mindless tool for some foreigners with an agenda
of their own,” Tracey said, sneering at him.
of their own,” Tracey said, sneering at him.
“You have to admit that it sounds rather dubious,” Daphne said. “The houngans
would love for Britain to weaken itself further in a civil war.”
would love for Britain to weaken itself further in a civil war.”
Theo snorted. “Even if we couldn’t handle them, the rest of Europe wouldn’t
tolerate the houngans attacking us.”
tolerate the houngans attacking us.”
“You mean France and Prussia would fight the houngans to the last British
wizard,” Tracey said.
wizard,” Tracey said.
Daphne held up a hand before the two butted heads even more. “It was
Dumbledore who cowed the houngans. Without him, Britain either needs help from
foreigners, or from the mudbloods.”
Dumbledore who cowed the houngans. Without him, Britain either needs help from
foreigners, or from the mudbloods.”
“Or from Potter!” ‘Astoria’ piped up.
Daphne glared at the metamorphmagus. “In any case, we’d have to beg for help,
and we’d likely have to make a number of concessions.”
and we’d likely have to make a number of concessions.”
“I told you already: This is bigger than Britain. This is a fight for every
pureblood!”
pureblood!”
“A fight every pureblood wants to see fought by us, so they can stay safe.”
Tracey narrowed her eyes at Theo. “And you are even eager to serve as their
curse fodder.”
Tracey narrowed her eyes at Theo. “And you are even eager to serve as their
curse fodder.”
Theo stood up, shaking his head. “You wouldn’t understand. You’ll end up
murdered by mudbloods if you don’t stand up and fight now.”
murdered by mudbloods if you don’t stand up and fight now.”
“We almost were murdered because we stood and fought,” Tracey snapped.
Daphne shot her friend a glance. She was overdoing it, Daphne thought. “It’s
not as if we like mudbloods, you know that. But we were almost killed several
times in the war. We’re not going to risk our lives recklessly, not when we
don’t even know who is involved in this affair.” She held up a hand again when
Theo opened his mouth. ‘We’re not going to act like obedient little
Hit-Witches. Your ‘friends’ can hire enough ruffians from Knockturn Alley, or
whatever it’s called in Paris, for that.’ She noticed how Theo flinched.
“We’re members of the Wizengamot, not tools.”
not as if we like mudbloods, you know that. But we were almost killed several
times in the war. We’re not going to risk our lives recklessly, not when we
don’t even know who is involved in this affair.” She held up a hand again when
Theo opened his mouth. ‘We’re not going to act like obedient little
Hit-Witches. Your ‘friends’ can hire enough ruffians from Knockturn Alley, or
whatever it’s called in Paris, for that.’ She noticed how Theo flinched.
“We’re members of the Wizengamot, not tools.”
Theo frowned, but nodded. “I see. You think you’ll be more useful in another
capacity. If you have lost your nerve, then that might be for the best.”
capacity. If you have lost your nerve, then that might be for the best.”
Tracey, for once, didn’t respond to the barb, though her glare spoke volumes.
Daphne bowed her head at Theo. “That may be so.”
Daphne bowed her head at Theo. “That may be so.”
The wizard turned to ‘Astoria’. “I hope we didn’t frighten you with our
discussion, my dear. Rest assured, things will work out for all of us in the
end.”
discussion, my dear. Rest assured, things will work out for all of us in the
end.”
The metamorphmagus beamed at him. If Theo had known the real Astoria better,
he’d have realised that she was a double — Daphne’s sister would have bristled
at the patronising tone. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case.
he’d have realised that she was a double — Daphne’s sister would have bristled
at the patronising tone. Fortunately, that wasn’t the case.
Theo bowed to Tracey and Daphne. “I’ll take my leave, then.”
Daphne knew what was about to happen, and she still almost missed it when
Tonks whipped out her wand and sent a spell at Theo’s back, right before he
stepped into the fireplace. The Auror was far quicker than her apparent
clumsiness would suggest.
Tonks whipped out her wand and sent a spell at Theo’s back, right before he
stepped into the fireplace. The Auror was far quicker than her apparent
clumsiness would suggest.
As soon as the flames had change back to their natural colour, Tonks leaned
back in her seat and shook her head. “What a pompous arse!”
back in her seat and shook her head. “What a pompous arse!”
Tracey snickered, then grew serious. “I wonder if he really believes what he
told us, or simply thinks he can manipulate us.”
told us, or simply thinks he can manipulate us.”
“We’ll soon find out,” Tonks said.
Daphne knew what she meant, and told herself that the fool had doomed himself.
She still felt guilty about selling him out, though.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 14th, 1997**
Bess Cox rubbed her shoulder. It had been healed, but she still could feel a
twinge from time to time when she moved her arm too much. The wizard who had
treated her hadn’t been the most skilled, but she couldn’t go to St. Mungo’s.
She couldn’t risk that.
twinge from time to time when she moved her arm too much. The wizard who had
treated her hadn’t been the most skilled, but she couldn’t go to St. Mungo’s.
She couldn’t risk that.
She kept looking around while she walked through Diagon Alley. Anyone could be
a threat. Imperiused, or disillusioned, or disguised. It would have been safer
to stay in muggle London, she knew, but she wouldn’t let the pureblood scum
drive her out of Wizarding Britain. She wouldn’t betray her dead friends like
that!
a threat. Imperiused, or disillusioned, or disguised. It would have been safer
to stay in muggle London, she knew, but she wouldn’t let the pureblood scum
drive her out of Wizarding Britain. She wouldn’t betray her dead friends like
that!
Not everyone thought like her, though. There were fewer people on the streets,
and most of them were hurrying to wherever they were going. No one was
loitering outside a shop or pub. Bess pressed her lips together. Muggleborns
were afraid again, as if the war had never ended. She couldn’t stand that!
and most of them were hurrying to wherever they were going. No one was
loitering outside a shop or pub. Bess pressed her lips together. Muggleborns
were afraid again, as if the war had never ended. She couldn’t stand that!
She reached the site of the attack. The damage to the street had been repaired
already, unlike the bar. Of course — the bar was owned by a muggleborn. If it
had been a pureblood’s business, then it would have been repaired as well,
Bess knew. She cursed under her breath, then turned to look at the side alley
where she had almost died. Where she had almost been murdered. She hadn’t been
saved by Aurors, of course. She hadn’t even seen them until long after it had
been over. The red robes wouldn’t show themselves to help muggleborns.
already, unlike the bar. Of course — the bar was owned by a muggleborn. If it
had been a pureblood’s business, then it would have been repaired as well,
Bess knew. She cursed under her breath, then turned to look at the side alley
where she had almost died. Where she had almost been murdered. She hadn’t been
saved by Aurors, of course. She hadn’t even seen them until long after it had
been over. The red robes wouldn’t show themselves to help muggleborns.
She wasn’t the only one to visit — the ground in front of the entrance to the
bar was covered with flowers and candles, and she saw half a dozen other
muggleborns standing there. Bess summoned a piece of debris from the bar, then
transfigured it into a rose. Or tried to — McGonagall wouldn’t have rated it
as passable, but it would do for this. She walked up to the entrance, and put
the misshapen flower down next to a flickering candle. None of the others
standing there were saying anything, so she remained silent as well.
bar was covered with flowers and candles, and she saw half a dozen other
muggleborns standing there. Bess summoned a piece of debris from the bar, then
transfigured it into a rose. Or tried to — McGonagall wouldn’t have rated it
as passable, but it would do for this. She walked up to the entrance, and put
the misshapen flower down next to a flickering candle. None of the others
standing there were saying anything, so she remained silent as well.
So many had died here. Murdered by bigots. Just like her friends. Just like so
many other muggleborns. Murdered just for being born to muggles. She ground
her teeth. The war was supposed to be over. They had won! The Dark Lord was
dead, and the Ministry beaten! This shouldn’t be happening any more!
many other muggleborns. Murdered just for being born to muggles. She ground
her teeth. The war was supposed to be over. They had won! The Dark Lord was
dead, and the Ministry beaten! This shouldn’t be happening any more!
She realised that she was crying, and wiped the tears from her cheeks, then
turned and walked away, her hands, stuck in the pockets of her jacket, balled
into fists.
turned and walked away, her hands, stuck in the pockets of her jacket, balled
into fists.
A few minutes later, she had reached Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips, a muggleborn food
shop located in a side-alley, barely big enough for a dozen people. It wasn’t
packed, despite the fact that it was dinner time, but she saw a number of
people waiting for their orders, and stood in line herself.
shop located in a side-alley, barely big enough for a dozen people. It wasn’t
packed, despite the fact that it was dinner time, but she saw a number of
people waiting for their orders, and stood in line herself.
“Does anyone know how many died in the attack?” she asked after a minute. The
Resistance Radio hadn’t gone on air yet, and she didn’t trust the wizarding
media.
Resistance Radio hadn’t gone on air yet, and she didn’t trust the wizarding
media.
The wizard next to her looked her over. Not to check her out, but to check her
clothes. She was wearing jeans, a leather jacket, a sweater, and trainers.
Muggle clothes, used ones. He nodded. “I’ve heard there are a dozen dead,
twice that number wounded.”
clothes. She was wearing jeans, a leather jacket, a sweater, and trainers.
Muggle clothes, used ones. He nodded. “I’ve heard there are a dozen dead,
twice that number wounded.”
She hissed and rubbed her shoulder. “Bastards!”
He cocked his head slightly to the side. “Were you there?”
Bess pulled her hand away from her shoulder. “Yes. One of them almost killed
me, before someone blew his head off. Hit me in the shoulder,” she added.
me, before someone blew his head off. Hit me in the shoulder,” she added.
“Ah.” He slowly nodded again. “Did you lose anyone you knew?”
She shook her head. “Not in that attack, but…” She sighed. “Three friends
during the war. And one was ‘killed while resisting arrest’ before the war.”
during the war. And one was ‘killed while resisting arrest’ before the war.”
“My brother was killed in the riot.”
Before Bess could say anything else, Freddie handed the man his order. A
single portion, she noted, and a beer. “What’ll it be for you?” the owner of
the shop asked her.
single portion, she noted, and a beer. “What’ll it be for you?” the owner of
the shop asked her.
“Same as him,” she answered.
The other man seemed to hesitate, then took a seat at a table. After a moment,
Bess joined him. “The purebloods still haven’t learned their lesson.”
Bess joined him. “The purebloods still haven’t learned their lesson.”
He shook his head, blowing on a chip before biting into it. After swallowing,
he said: “Did you hear Granger and Potter talk?”
he said: “Did you hear Granger and Potter talk?”
“No. In the Wizengamot?”
He shook his head again. “No. Yesterday, at the attack. They don’t want us to
do anything.”
do anything.”
Bess hissed. “What?”
“They don’t want us ‘to act like our enemies’, or some such.” He snorted, then
stuffed a piece of fried fish into his mouth.
stuffed a piece of fried fish into his mouth.
Bess ground her teeth. “They killed dozens of purebloods in the war,” she
pressed out. “And now they want to play nice?”
pressed out. “And now they want to play nice?”
“They’re on the Wizengamot now.”
She muttered a curse under her breath. “Talking won’t help us. They haven’t
even called for another rally. There’s only one language those pureblood
bastards understand.”
even called for another rally. There’s only one language those pureblood
bastards understand.”
He nodded.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 15th, 1997**
“Why are we letting them into our home? We’re not letting Reid into Hogwarts
like that.”
like that.”
Sirius Black smiled despite Harry’s words — knowing that his godson considered
the Black’s ancestral house his home felt very good. “Well, they won’t be
casting any spells here. My family has a reputation, after all.”
the Black’s ancestral house his home felt very good. “Well, they won’t be
casting any spells here. My family has a reputation, after all.”
“So has Hogwarts,” Harry countered. He had stopped fiddling with his new dress
robes, at least.
robes, at least.
“Hogwarts isn’t known for all the dark arts done there. My family, on the
other hand, is known for their mastery of dark curses.” Sirius wasn’t proud of
that legacy, but it was handy at times — both the reputation and the curses.
He doubted that either Beaumont or Steiner would risk both the wards’
response, and the loss of reputation by trying anything while they were guests
in his house.
other hand, is known for their mastery of dark curses.” Sirius wasn’t proud of
that legacy, but it was handy at times — both the reputation and the curses.
He doubted that either Beaumont or Steiner would risk both the wards’
response, and the loss of reputation by trying anything while they were guests
in his house.
“If you say so,” Harry muttered.
Sirius looked at him. “What’s wrong?”
His godson shrugged. “I should be with the rest, training. Not dining here.”
“Ron and Hermione will be joining us soon. And weren’t you pretty much
exhausted when you arrived earlier?”
exhausted when you arrived earlier?”
Harry glared at him. Sirius chuckled. “They want to meet all of us. That way,
we can present a unified front.”
we can present a unified front.”
“Beaumont is a vipère. Don’t trust ’er. She just wants to find out ’ow
powerful you are,” Vivienne was standing in the door, clad in dress robes
straight from Paris that hugged her curves. She looked ravishing.
powerful you are,” Vivienne was standing in the door, clad in dress robes
straight from Paris that hugged her curves. She looked ravishing.
Sirius smiled at her. “We’re aware of that. Our honoured guests will discover
that we’re not to be trifled with, and that should persuade them to leave
Britain alone.”
that we’re not to be trifled with, and that should persuade them to leave
Britain alone.”
“Or they’ll think we’re too dangerous to be left in peace,” Harry muttered.
“They fear the example you’re setting for their muggleborns,” Vivienne said,
walking up to Sirius and wrapping one arm around his waist. “If they think you
are more like Grindelwald than Dumbledore…”
walking up to Sirius and wrapping one arm around his waist. “If they think you
are more like Grindelwald than Dumbledore…”
Sirius twisted around so he was facing her, then planted a kiss on her brow.
“Don’t worry. We’ll be polite and refrain from proclaiming a crusade for
muggleborn rights.” That was the agreed upon plan, at least.
“Don’t worry. We’ll be polite and refrain from proclaiming a crusade for
muggleborn rights.” That was the agreed upon plan, at least.
“I hope you told Hermione that,” Harry said.
“She knows,” Sirius said. The witch was smart; she wouldn’t blurt out her
long-term plans.
long-term plans.
Which, Sirius was certain, did include a campaign for the rights of the
European muggleborns.
European muggleborns.
---
“Madame Beaumont, Herr Steiner, welcome to my humble abode!” Sirius bowed with
all the grace his parents had taught him as soon as Beaumont and Steiner had
cleaned themselves of soot and dust from their trip through the Floo Network.
Since this was technically a private invitation, they hadn’t brought their
assistants along.
all the grace his parents had taught him as soon as Beaumont and Steiner had
cleaned themselves of soot and dust from their trip through the Floo Network.
Since this was technically a private invitation, they hadn’t brought their
assistants along.
Beaumont’s smile was as honest as his own as she curtsied in return. “Thank
you for the invitation, Mister Black.” It slipped a tiny bit, he noted, when
she saw Vivienne standing there. Probably jealous, he thought — the French
witch was beautiful, but she couldn’t hold a candle to Vivienne in his,
entirely objective, opinion.
you for the invitation, Mister Black.” It slipped a tiny bit, he noted, when
she saw Vivienne standing there. Probably jealous, he thought — the French
witch was beautiful, but she couldn’t hold a candle to Vivienne in his,
entirely objective, opinion.
“Thank you,” Steiner said, bowing more stiffly.
“May I present to you my godson, Harry Potter,” Sirius said, gesturing at
Harry, who bowed as well. A bit roughly, of course — he had grown up among
muggles. Sirius suppressed the familiar pain he felt when thinking of James
and Lily. ‘Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger.’ Curt bows. “And Vivienne
d’Aigle.”
Harry, who bowed as well. A bit roughly, of course — he had grown up among
muggles. Sirius suppressed the familiar pain he felt when thinking of James
and Lily. ‘Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger.’ Curt bows. “And Vivienne
d’Aigle.”
“Enchantée.” His lover curtsied with the grace the Veela were famous for.
Sirius thought Beaumont’s smile slipped a tiny bit more.
Sirius thought Beaumont’s smile slipped a tiny bit more.
“We have prepared an aperitif in the living room.” He opened the door behind
him with a flick of his wand, then the one to the living room with another.
“After you.”
him with a flick of his wand, then the one to the living room with another.
“After you.”
---
Kreacher had taken a few bottles from the good selection in the cellar, but
not the best. That was reserved for guests Sirius actually liked, and special
occasions. Steiner would probably not notice it, but Beaumont would.
not the best. That was reserved for guests Sirius actually liked, and special
occasions. Steiner would probably not notice it, but Beaumont would.
Judging by her expression after tasting her drink, she already had. Sirius
raised his glass. “To a successful conclusion of your inspection,” he toasted.
After everyone had taken a sip, he added: “It is pretty much finished, isn’t
it?”
raised his glass. “To a successful conclusion of your inspection,” he toasted.
After everyone had taken a sip, he added: “It is pretty much finished, isn’t
it?”
“Not quite,” Beaumont said. “There’s still Hogwarts to visit, and of course
the current political situation to consider. Which is why we are grateful for
your invitation.”
the current political situation to consider. Which is why we are grateful for
your invitation.”
The witch wasn’t wasting any time, he noted. He’d have expected that from a
Prussian, not a Frenchwoman. “I see.” He slowly inclined his head as the
others gathered around them.
Prussian, not a Frenchwoman. “I see.” He slowly inclined his head as the
others gathered around them.
“You’re the leader of the most influential faction in the Wizengamot, as well
as the leader of the Order of the Phoenix,” Beaumont said.
as the leader of the Order of the Phoenix,” Beaumont said.
“What’s left of it after the war,” Steiner cut in, shaking his head. “I
haven’t heard of such carnage since Grindelwald’s War.”
haven’t heard of such carnage since Grindelwald’s War.”
“The brunt of the losses were borne by the Dark Lord’s forces, and by the
Ministry,” Sirius said. “We didn’t escape unscathed, of course.”
Ministry,” Sirius said. “We didn’t escape unscathed, of course.”
“Neither did the Resistance, but we’re already rebuilding,” Hermione added.
The young witch was a bit too honest for her own good, Sirius thought.
The young witch was a bit too honest for her own good, Sirius thought.
“Ah, yes. The famous Muggleborn Resistance.” Beaumont’s smile grew cold. “Your
deeds in the war made waves at the Court. Quite brutal, and ruthless. Many
wonder what you’ll be doing now that the war is over.”
deeds in the war made waves at the Court. Quite brutal, and ruthless. Many
wonder what you’ll be doing now that the war is over.”
“If the war is actually over. That attack on Diagon Alley…” Steiner shook his
head. “Nasty business, that. Reminds me of the aftermath of the war in
Prussia.”
head. “Nasty business, that. Reminds me of the aftermath of the war in
Prussia.”
“We’ll continue our struggle for equal rights with means adequate for the
situation.” Hermione’s smile showed more than a few teeth.
situation.” Hermione’s smile showed more than a few teeth.
“Those who attack us will regret it,” Harry said. “We beat Voldemort and his
Death Eaters, and we’ll beat whoever is behind these attacks.”
Death Eaters, and we’ll beat whoever is behind these attacks.”
“Do you mean the Ministry, or your own organisations?” Beaumont asked with a
faint smile.
faint smile.
“We’ve been working together during the war,” Sirius said. “There’s no reason
to stop now. Dumbledore wasn’t a Ministry employee either, and did what he
could when he was needed.”
to stop now. Dumbledore wasn’t a Ministry employee either, and did what he
could when he was needed.”
“But that was Dumbledore. Britain’s greatest wizard since Merlin,” Steiner
said. “The one who defeated Grindelwald.” His implication was clear.
said. “The one who defeated Grindelwald.” His implication was clear.
“Harry’s defeated Voldemort,” Ron spoke up. ‘We all fought the Dark Lord —
more than once. And we’re members of the Wizengamot. My family’s working in
the Ministry.’ He shrugged. “Whether you’re a Ministry employee or not doesn’t
matter, as long as you’re doing what’s needed.”
more than once. And we’re members of the Wizengamot. My family’s working in
the Ministry.’ He shrugged. “Whether you’re a Ministry employee or not doesn’t
matter, as long as you’re doing what’s needed.”
“Ah.” Steiner nodded.
Beaumont, though, frowned. “That sounds rather unorganised. Without a clear
hierarchy, responsibilities can be easily neglected.”
hierarchy, responsibilities can be easily neglected.”
“It’s not so different from the Cour de France,” Vivienne said, smiling
innocently. “The Duc often ’as friends and family ’andle issues, instead of
using ’is employees.”
innocently. “The Duc often ’as friends and family ’andle issues, instead of
using ’is employees.”
Beaumont didn’t even bother to hide her frown now. “But Britain lacks a Duc.
They have an elected Minister who answers to the Wizengamot.”
They have an elected Minister who answers to the Wizengamot.”
“The Wizengamot hasn’t taken any steps to dissolve the close relationships
between the Order, the Resistance and the Ministry that were created during
the war,” Sirius said, “and I doubt it will in the future. As you said, I am
the leader of the most influential faction in the Wizengamot.” He spread his
hands.
between the Order, the Resistance and the Ministry that were created during
the war,” Sirius said, “and I doubt it will in the future. As you said, I am
the leader of the most influential faction in the Wizengamot.” He spread his
hands.
“I see.” Beaumont was smiling cynically, but she seemed satisfied.
Sirius looked at his now empty glass, then at the clock on the wall. “Dinner
should be ready now.”
should be ready now.”
---
Sirius sighed with relief and let himself fall into the closest seat when his
guests had finally left. “That was exhausting,” he said, closing his eyes for
a moment.
guests had finally left. “That was exhausting,” he said, closing his eyes for
a moment.
Harry snorted. “They didn’t ask you about the fight with Voldemort.” He badly
imitated Beaumont. “But you ’ave to admit that a boy of your age defeating a
wizard with decades of experience in a duel is unheard of. I cannot even
fathom ’ow that could have been possible.”
imitated Beaumont. “But you ’ave to admit that a boy of your age defeating a
wizard with decades of experience in a duel is unheard of. I cannot even
fathom ’ow that could have been possible.”
“Her accent wasn’t that bad,” Sirius said.
“That’s not the point, Sirius.”
He shrugged. “We knew that they would try to find out just how we killed
Voldemort. Or what exactly the Resistance is capable of.”
Voldemort. Or what exactly the Resistance is capable of.”
“I didn’t expect them to be so blatant about it,” Hermione said, leaning into
Ron. “Steiner sounded as if he was planning to write a book about our
operations.”
Ron. “Steiner sounded as if he was planning to write a book about our
operations.”
“They weren’t ’appy,” Vivienne remarked.
“I don’t care if they’re happy or not.” Sirius scoffed. “All I care about is
whether or not they think that we’re too powerful to provoke into a conflict,
so they’ll leave us be.”
whether or not they think that we’re too powerful to provoke into a conflict,
so they’ll leave us be.”
“Beaumont thinks that you’ll be taking over Britain,” Vivienne said, sitting
down on the armrest of his seat. “At least that’s my impression.”
down on the armrest of his seat. “At least that’s my impression.”
He patted her thigh. “As if I’d be that insane!” The others chuckled, and he
mock-glared at them.
mock-glared at them.
“Actually, we are taking over Britain — we need to, to reform the Wizengamot,”
Hermione said. “And you’re leading the movement in the Wizengamot.”
Hermione said. “And you’re leading the movement in the Wizengamot.”
“If I’m stuck in the Wizengamot, then so are you,” Harry added.
Sirius glared at them both, but they didn’t look as if that impressed them.
The worst thing was that they were correct.
---
**Worcestershire, Nott Manor, March 16th, 1997**
Ron Weasley studied the manor through his omnioculars. It had sturdy walls,
good lines of fire, and while he wasn’t an expert, he could see that the wards
were powerful — and Notts were an Old Family, after all, and their manor’s
protections had been created in a time when sacrificial magic hadn’t yet been
illegal.
good lines of fire, and while he wasn’t an expert, he could see that the wards
were powerful — and Notts were an Old Family, after all, and their manor’s
protections had been created in a time when sacrificial magic hadn’t yet been
illegal.
He turned to his brothers. “Can you sneak your wireless ears inside?”
“Of course!” Fred answered, pouting. “We did it before, after all.”
“With a temporary hideout,” Ron said.
George shrugged. “The principle is the same. Without specific counter-charms,
they can’t stop us. And they’d need to know how our invention works to develop
such charms.”
they can’t stop us. And they’d need to know how our invention works to develop
such charms.”
“And the wards of those old manors are a bitch to work with, or so Bill says,”
Fred added. “So, even if they knew about our wireless ears, they would be
unlikely to manage to protect the manor.”
Fred added. “So, even if they knew about our wireless ears, they would be
unlikely to manage to protect the manor.”
“But they would be casting privacy charms all the time,” Hermione said. She
wasn’t looking at them, but staring at the manor through her own omnioculars,
taking notes about the strength of the wards, Ron knew. She’d have to
calculate how much explosive would be needed to take them down.
wasn’t looking at them, but staring at the manor through her own omnioculars,
taking notes about the strength of the wards, Ron knew. She’d have to
calculate how much explosive would be needed to take them down.
“We should take Nott out,” Fred said. “Before his next attack restarts the
war.”
war.”
Ron could see George rolling his eyes. “And break the cover of our spies? If
Nott gets captured so soon after his visit to Greengrass, his backers will
know they betrayed him.”
Nott gets captured so soon after his visit to Greengrass, his backers will
know they betrayed him.”
Fred shrugged. “Diagon Alley’s a cauldron about to boil over. What good does
it do if we find the traitors after their plans succeeded?”
it do if we find the traitors after their plans succeeded?”
“It’s a risk we have to take,” his brother said.
Ron had heard the argument before. Twice, actually. He wasn’t happy with
letting Nott continue either, but he understood that next to Nott’s allies,
Malfoy and Runcorn were the real targets. And Greengrass and Davis needed to
earn their trust. “Just get your ears into the manor, and we’ll be able to
stop him on the way to his next attack.”
letting Nott continue either, but he understood that next to Nott’s allies,
Malfoy and Runcorn were the real targets. And Greengrass and Davis needed to
earn their trust. “Just get your ears into the manor, and we’ll be able to
stop him on the way to his next attack.”
“Easier said than done — that’s a big manor. Moving them takes a lot of time.”
Fred grumbled.
Fred grumbled.
“Then talk less, and work more,” George said.
Fred shot his brother a glare, but returned to the contraption with which he
was apparently moving the wireless ears to the manor. Adapted from a muggle
toy, or so Ron had heard. As long as it worked, he didn’t care how it worked.
was apparently moving the wireless ears to the manor. Adapted from a muggle
toy, or so Ron had heard. As long as it worked, he didn’t care how it worked.
“I’m done.” Hermione stashed her Omnioculars and turned around. She nodded at
the twins. “Inform us as soon as you’ve installed the ears.”
the twins. “Inform us as soon as you’ve installed the ears.”
“Ma’am, yes, ma’am!” Fred barked, standing up to salute, followed by George.
Hermione shot Ron a glare that had him wince — he really shouldn’t have told
his brothers about muggle boot camp. Even if it was funny.
his brothers about muggle boot camp. Even if it was funny.
---
**Near Morant Bay, Jamaica, March 16th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood frowned. His plan had worked — the muggle boy he had chosen
as bait had been taken an hour ago from his parents, under the cover of an
accident at sea — but the wards protecting the houngan’s hideout were stronger
than he had expected. Breaking through them would take too much time.
as bait had been taken an hour ago from his parents, under the cover of an
accident at sea — but the wards protecting the houngan’s hideout were stronger
than he had expected. Breaking through them would take too much time.
Fortunately, there were other ways to bypass wards, even without the resources
of his former colleagues in the Department of Mysteries. They involved certain
risks, however. But he had no choice — he needed the knowledge this houngan,
whose name he didn’t yet know, could provide.
of his former colleagues in the Department of Mysteries. They involved certain
risks, however. But he had no choice — he needed the knowledge this houngan,
whose name he didn’t yet know, could provide.
He slid down the trunk of the tree from which he had observed the manor and
started towards the fields he had spotted behind it. He hadn’t much time left
— the houngan would quickly notice that the boy he had had kidnapped wasn’t a
wizard, and suspect a trap.
started towards the fields he had spotted behind it. He hadn’t much time left
— the houngan would quickly notice that the boy he had had kidnapped wasn’t a
wizard, and suspect a trap.
He still gave the manor a wide berth — it wouldn’t do to get spotted now —
until he reached a patch of dense forest bordering the fields. A number of
muggles were working there, clearing weeds from what he could tell — he hadn’t
done much herbology since Hogwarts.
until he reached a patch of dense forest bordering the fields. A number of
muggles were working there, clearing weeds from what he could tell — he hadn’t
done much herbology since Hogwarts.
He didn’t spot an overseer, which meant that the muggles were magically
controlled — or zombies. That might even be an advantage for him. It all
depended on how much the houngan valued his muggles.
controlled — or zombies. That might even be an advantage for him. It all
depended on how much the houngan valued his muggles.
For a moment, he hesitated. Then he aimed his wand at the closest muggle
worker.
worker.
“Imperio!”
As ordered, the man stepped closer to the edge of the forest, then suddenly
stumbled, and threw his farming tool into the forest. It wasn’t the best
acting, but the muggles were too stupid to notice anything amiss. Augustus
waited until the man had stepped past the tree he was hiding behind, then
stunned him and quickly stripped him of his clothes before pulling out a vial
from his enchanted pocket. A plucked hair later, the Polyjuice was ready.
stumbled, and threw his farming tool into the forest. It wasn’t the best
acting, but the muggles were too stupid to notice anything amiss. Augustus
waited until the man had stepped past the tree he was hiding behind, then
stunned him and quickly stripped him of his clothes before pulling out a vial
from his enchanted pocket. A plucked hair later, the Polyjuice was ready.
Once more he hesitated, disgusted. To wear the form of a muggle… he shook his
head. It was only temporary, after all. A sip later, he was wearing the man’s
form, and pulling on his dirty clothes. His enchanted pocket went behind the
man’s sash. A Killing Curse and a Vanishing Spell later the muggle was gone.
head. It was only temporary, after all. A sip later, he was wearing the man’s
form, and pulling on his dirty clothes. His enchanted pocket went behind the
man’s sash. A Killing Curse and a Vanishing Spell later the muggle was gone.
A flick of his wand conjured a banana spider, one of the most venomous muggle
spiders of the island. He rubbed some powder on his skin, causing a red
swelling, then took a sip from another vial. At once he started to shiver and
tremble. He managed to put a bezoar into his mouth, but didn’t swallow it,
before crushing the conjured spider and stumbling out of the forest while
waving its carcass around. His screams caught the attention of the other
muggles, and a few minutes after he collapsed, acting as if he was in severe
pain, they carried him to the manor.
spiders of the island. He rubbed some powder on his skin, causing a red
swelling, then took a sip from another vial. At once he started to shiver and
tremble. He managed to put a bezoar into his mouth, but didn’t swallow it,
before crushing the conjured spider and stumbling out of the forest while
waving its carcass around. His screams caught the attention of the other
muggles, and a few minutes after he collapsed, acting as if he was in severe
pain, they carried him to the manor.
Augustus swallowed the bezoar when he passed the wards. When he stopped
trembling and shivering, the muggles started yelling even louder for their
master in their weird dialect.
trembling and shivering, the muggles started yelling even louder for their
master in their weird dialect.
“What is going on?” he heard a rough, harsh voice demand in decent English.
Half of the muggles who had carried him started to explain about his spider
bite. Augustus used the distraction they provided to summon his wand from the
sash in which he had hidden it.
bite. Augustus used the distraction they provided to summon his wand from the
sash in which he had hidden it.
The houngan noticed, but Augustus was already casting when the man swung his
wand up.
wand up.
“Imperio!”
The man’s expression went slack and his wand hand fell down. Augustus opened
his mouth to give his victim his first order when he realised that the houngan
was far too young to be the owner of the manor. And that meant…
his mouth to give his victim his first order when he realised that the houngan
was far too young to be the owner of the manor. And that meant…
He managed to cast a Shield Charm just in time to save his life from a curse
that showered the area with yellow liquid. While the muggles around him
started to scream, covered with poison — acidic poison, he noted — he ran past
the imperiused houngan, towards a stone bench that would provide some cover.
that showered the area with yellow liquid. While the muggles around him
started to scream, covered with poison — acidic poison, he noted — he ran past
the imperiused houngan, towards a stone bench that would provide some cover.
Another spell transfigured the stone bench into a stone snake but he had been
expecting such a move, and slid to the side, moving over the short grass with
his wand waving. The snake was rearing up to strike when his Banishing Charm
smashed it into the porch of the manor, narrowingly missing the houngan
standing there.
expecting such a move, and slid to the side, moving over the short grass with
his wand waving. The snake was rearing up to strike when his Banishing Charm
smashed it into the porch of the manor, narrowingly missing the houngan
standing there.
His enemy — his target — flinched, and Augustus followed up with a Killing
Curse, which drove the houngan into cover behind the next pillar. He was
already rushing forward, two, four, five steps, but then the lawn in front of
him was ripped open as Inferi tore out of the earth. Cursing, he flicked his
wand, a fire whip cutting the undead apart, but stopping his charge.
Curse, which drove the houngan into cover behind the next pillar. He was
already rushing forward, two, four, five steps, but then the lawn in front of
him was ripped open as Inferi tore out of the earth. Cursing, he flicked his
wand, a fire whip cutting the undead apart, but stopping his charge.
And that gave the houngan the time he needed to turn the tables. Augustus saw
a wave move through the lawn, ripples spreading as if the earth was water,
leaving brown, shriveled, dead plants in its wake. Some sort of rotting curse,
but one he hadn’t seen before.
a wave move through the lawn, ripples spreading as if the earth was water,
leaving brown, shriveled, dead plants in its wake. Some sort of rotting curse,
but one he hadn’t seen before.
Two could play that game, though. He sent a volley of quick, exotic but weak
curses at the houngan, just to keep him busy, then turned the earth in front
of himself into a curved stone wall. The wave smashed into it, and was parted,
a trail of dead plants surrounding him. A second later the wall was shattered,
fragments of it bouncing off his shield.
curses at the houngan, just to keep him busy, then turned the earth in front
of himself into a curved stone wall. The wave smashed into it, and was parted,
a trail of dead plants surrounding him. A second later the wall was shattered,
fragments of it bouncing off his shield.
He countered with an explosive curse that blew up most of the porch and — more
importantly — covered the area with dust and smoke. That bought him a few more
seconds. He cast an Amplifying Charm, then yelled “Help me!” at the houngan
under his control.
importantly — covered the area with dust and smoke. That bought him a few more
seconds. He cast an Amplifying Charm, then yelled “Help me!” at the houngan
under his control.
The young man turned around, lifting his wand, but collapsed before he could
cast anything. Either the poison spell had hit him as well, or his master had
taken precautions against betrayal.
cast anything. Either the poison spell had hit him as well, or his master had
taken precautions against betrayal.
Two green curses flew at him, Killing Curses! Augustus jumped to the side,
then rolled back — he didn’t want to touch the rotten grass. He grit his teeth
— his target was proving to be more troublesome than he had expected. And he
wasn’t the duellist he had once been.
then rolled back — he didn’t want to touch the rotten grass. He grit his teeth
— his target was proving to be more troublesome than he had expected. And he
wasn’t the duellist he had once been.
A quick conjuration turned the now rotting grass between him and his enemy
into a forest of stone pillars. He could deal with this, though — his greatest
strength had always been his mind. While the pillars started to rot — that was
a powerful dark curse, he noticed — He filled the area with a cloud of smoke,
then transfigured the remains of his wall into a stone figure in his likeness.
A spell later, it was running away from him, towards the wardline.
into a forest of stone pillars. He could deal with this, though — his greatest
strength had always been his mind. While the pillars started to rot — that was
a powerful dark curse, he noticed — He filled the area with a cloud of smoke,
then transfigured the remains of his wall into a stone figure in his likeness.
A spell later, it was running away from him, towards the wardline.
It wouldn’t fool the houngan, of course — he would have cast a
Human-presence-revealing spell. But it would serve as a distraction from his
real attack. He hadn’t wanted to use it, but there was no choice. And the
houngan might survive it. Or his library would.
Human-presence-revealing spell. But it would serve as a distraction from his
real attack. He hadn’t wanted to use it, but there was no choice. And the
houngan might survive it. Or his library would.
He pulled a small pack out of his pocket and banished it in a high arc towards
his enemy, then started to run towards the wardline at the side of the manor.
The pillars had crumbled by now, and the smoke had thinned so he could see
curses shooting at him. He dove towards a green patch on the ground, his wand
whipping back and forth while his shield shattered under the impact of a
spell. The ground opened just before he touched it, and he fell six feet into
the earth. He managed to take a deep breath before the grave filled up with
earth and rock.
his enemy, then started to run towards the wardline at the side of the manor.
The pillars had crumbled by now, and the smoke had thinned so he could see
curses shooting at him. He dove towards a green patch on the ground, his wand
whipping back and forth while his shield shattered under the impact of a
spell. The ground opened just before he touched it, and he fell six feet into
the earth. He managed to take a deep breath before the grave filled up with
earth and rock.
Then the earth shook as the package he had thrown hit the porch and exploded.
Chapter 53: Missteps
====================
I’d like to thank fredfred and brianna-xox for betaing. Their help has
improved the story a lot.
improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 53: Missteps**
’*The houngans of Jamaica had a fearsome reputation, especially among the
nations of the New World, and certainly were skilled in their arts, especially
sympathetic magic and the creation and control of zombies. However, a thorough
examination of the various wars between Britain and Jamaica clearly reveals
that for all the fear their particular traditions caused in the ignorant, a
houngan was not significantly more powerful on the battlefield than a skilled
British Hit-Wizard. The only reason their 1752 rebellion succeeded was because
they launched it exactly when Britain was occupied fighting the goblins on her
own soil, and if not for the sheer distance between the British Isles and
Jamaica, which presented insurmountable logistical challenges for an invasion
force without muggle support, they would have lost all of the following
conflicts.*
nations of the New World, and certainly were skilled in their arts, especially
sympathetic magic and the creation and control of zombies. However, a thorough
examination of the various wars between Britain and Jamaica clearly reveals
that for all the fear their particular traditions caused in the ignorant, a
houngan was not significantly more powerful on the battlefield than a skilled
British Hit-Wizard. The only reason their 1752 rebellion succeeded was because
they launched it exactly when Britain was occupied fighting the goblins on her
own soil, and if not for the sheer distance between the British Isles and
Jamaica, which presented insurmountable logistical challenges for an invasion
force without muggle support, they would have lost all of the following
conflicts.*
*Of course, at the end of the Second Blood War, skilled British Hit-Wizards
were in very short supply.’*
were in very short supply.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**Near Morant Bay, Jamaica, March 16th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood felt the earth that surrounded him press into his back,
forcing the air out of his lungs. He wouldn’t suffocate right away — his spell
was designed to let the victim suffer as they were buried alive — but it
wasn’t a pleasant feeling. Taking a shallow breath, he moved his wand,
vanishing the earth at its point with a quick motion. That allowed him more
space to cast, and soon, he could roll over inside the space he had cleared of
soil.
forcing the air out of his lungs. He wouldn’t suffocate right away — his spell
was designed to let the victim suffer as they were buried alive — but it
wasn’t a pleasant feeling. Taking a shallow breath, he moved his wand,
vanishing the earth at its point with a quick motion. That allowed him more
space to cast, and soon, he could roll over inside the space he had cleared of
soil.
Another stab of his wand, and the earth above him vanished, transfigured into
a staircase. A few seconds later, he had climbed high enough on the stairs to
peer at the manor, leading with his wand.
a staircase. A few seconds later, he had climbed high enough on the stairs to
peer at the manor, leading with his wand.
The muggle explosives he had thrown had wrecked the porch, shattered the
windows, and caved in part of the wall. Nothing a package of Explosive Fluid
wouldn’t have done just as well, but he hadn’t had enough left, and so had
been forced to resort to using muggle means as if he were a mudblood. That the
Dark Lord himself had used such means to kill his blood traitor enemies and
frame the mudbloods was a small comfort — Augustus hadn’t planned to use a
bomb here.
windows, and caved in part of the wall. Nothing a package of Explosive Fluid
wouldn’t have done just as well, but he hadn’t had enough left, and so had
been forced to resort to using muggle means as if he were a mudblood. That the
Dark Lord himself had used such means to kill his blood traitor enemies and
frame the mudbloods was a small comfort — Augustus hadn’t planned to use a
bomb here.
He recast his Shield Charm and climbed out of the hole. There was a body lying
in the ruins of the porch, half-buried under a fallen pillar. He kept his wand
trained on it as he closed. The houngan could still be alive.
in the ruins of the porch, half-buried under a fallen pillar. He kept his wand
trained on it as he closed. The houngan could still be alive.
He wasn’t, as Augustus saw as soon as he reached the porch — the entire lower
half of the houngan’s body had been crushed. Frowning, he muttered a curse
under his breath. He needed a captive to interrogate, not a corpse. A glance
to the side told him that if the younger houngan hadn’t been killed before the
explosion, he was certainly dead now.
half of the houngan’s body had been crushed. Frowning, he muttered a curse
under his breath. He needed a captive to interrogate, not a corpse. A glance
to the side told him that if the younger houngan hadn’t been killed before the
explosion, he was certainly dead now.
Shaking his head, Augustus entered the manor. He had no use for the corpses of
his enemies, but their library might prove of use.
his enemies, but their library might prove of use.
One way or the other, he would gain the knowledge he needed.
---
**South Downs National Park, Hampshire, Britain, March 16th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass took a deep breath while she cleaned the soot from her robes
in the entrance hall of Augustus Malfoy’s home.
in the entrance hall of Augustus Malfoy’s home.
“Well, it’s a step up from Draco’s home,” Tracey muttered under her breath.
Daphne closed her eyes and clenched her teeth. “Thanks, Tracey,” she muttered,
“for reminding me what happened the last time we visited a Malfoy.” The attack
by the Resistance, the desperate attempt to flee, the deaths of their friends,
their capture… She shook her head, banishing those memories from her mind,
just as she had forced the memories of her dead parents away.
“for reminding me what happened the last time we visited a Malfoy.” The attack
by the Resistance, the desperate attempt to flee, the deaths of their friends,
their capture… She shook her head, banishing those memories from her mind,
just as she had forced the memories of her dead parents away.
She wasn’t in Malfoy Manor, no matter what Augustus Malfoy called it. Everyone
knew that it was originally a summer house of the Malfoys, before Draco’s
grandfather had given it to Augustus. This was no Summer Ball either, just a
dinner for members of the Old Families. Not even two dozen guests, including
her and Tracey. And she wouldn’t die, crushed by falling ceilings or burned
alive. The Resistance wouldn’t attack this gathering. At least she was
reasonably certain they wouldn’t. But not certain enough. She had no doubts
that the mudbloods wanted her dead for fighting them.
knew that it was originally a summer house of the Malfoys, before Draco’s
grandfather had given it to Augustus. This was no Summer Ball either, just a
dinner for members of the Old Families. Not even two dozen guests, including
her and Tracey. And she wouldn’t die, crushed by falling ceilings or burned
alive. The Resistance wouldn’t attack this gathering. At least she was
reasonably certain they wouldn’t. But not certain enough. She had no doubts
that the mudbloods wanted her dead for fighting them.
“Miss Greengrass! Miss Davis! Welcome to my home!”
“Mister Malfoy.” Daphne’s face showed none of her thoughts when she smiled and
bowed to Augustus Malfoy, Tracey doing the same next to her.
bowed to Augustus Malfoy, Tracey doing the same next to her.
“The other guests are already in the salon,” he said, gesturing towards a door
to the side.
to the side.
“Of course he has a ‘salon’,” she heard Tracey mutter while they followed
their host. “Bloody French.”
their host. “Bloody French.”
Daphne didn’t mention that the Malfoys had been British purebloods for almost
a thousand years. Tracey knew that as well. But in the current times,
emphasising such roots sent a message — if it was done deliberately. Which,
seeing as it was Malfoy, would be the case. Whether what that affectation was
hinting at was true was another question, of course.
a thousand years. Tracey knew that as well. But in the current times,
emphasising such roots sent a message — if it was done deliberately. Which,
seeing as it was Malfoy, would be the case. Whether what that affectation was
hinting at was true was another question, of course.
A question Daphne hoped she’d be able to answer after this evening. Hoped, but
did not expect.
did not expect.
Philius Runcorn was surrounded by a group of Wizengamot members — Daphne
recognised most of them. Older ones, who had survived the war. Mainly by
hiding, and fleeing. Not the kind of people she’d expect to support another
civil war. Unless they were desperate — but they didn’t look like it as they
greeted her and Tracey. Did they actually think this was a safe course of
action?
recognised most of them. Older ones, who had survived the war. Mainly by
hiding, and fleeing. Not the kind of people she’d expect to support another
civil war. Unless they were desperate — but they didn’t look like it as they
greeted her and Tracey. Did they actually think this was a safe course of
action?
“Miss Greengrass! Miss Davis!” Runcorn beamed at them. ‘Two heroes are among
us,’ he declared. “Two brave witches who fought for our culture and
traditions.”
us,’ he declared. “Two brave witches who fought for our culture and
traditions.”
“And our very lives,” Malfoy added.
Daphne forced herself to keep smiling. Did they know about her and Tracey’s
meeting with Theo, and this was an attempt to shame them? She didn’t see her —
former now, probably — friend here, but certainly, if Malfoy had invited her
and Tracey, he’d have invited Theo as well. “We were lucky,” she said. “Many
of our friends didn’t survive.”
meeting with Theo, and this was an attempt to shame them? She didn’t see her —
former now, probably — friend here, but certainly, if Malfoy had invited her
and Tracey, he’d have invited Theo as well. “We were lucky,” she said. “Many
of our friends didn’t survive.”
Tracey simply nodded.
Malfoy looked sombre for a moment. “Draco among them. They murdered him like
muggles.”
muggles.”
“And now they are poised to take over our country,” Runcorn added. “Their
leader is now a member of the Wizengamot. To think that a mudblood murderer is
counted among our ranks…” he shook his head, taking a shaky breath. “The fools
following Black have lost their minds.”
leader is now a member of the Wizengamot. To think that a mudblood murderer is
counted among our ranks…” he shook his head, taking a shaky breath. “The fools
following Black have lost their minds.”
“Black has the support of Weasley, Potter and Granger, and through them half
of the Ministry, Dumbledore’s Order as well as the Resistance,” Tracey said.
of the Ministry, Dumbledore’s Order as well as the Resistance,” Tracey said.
“He is powerful,” Malfoy said, “but his power is more fleeting than he — and
others — may think.”
others — may think.”
Daphne didn’t have to fake her sceptical expression. “That isn’t my
impression. He is about to gain a solid majority in the Wizengamot, he already
has more wands behind him than the Ministry can muster, and his influence is
growing.”
impression. He is about to gain a solid majority in the Wizengamot, he already
has more wands behind him than the Ministry can muster, and his influence is
growing.”
Several of the others nodded in agreement with her. Tracey added: “And the
other families can’t match Black’s resources.”
other families can’t match Black’s resources.”
“Oh, but the alliance between the blood traitors and the mudbloods is fragile.
Black is no Dumbledore, and Granger may have Potter twisted around her finger,
but she has trouble controlling her own. The attack in Diagon Alley showed
that. The same tactics that brought the Ministry to its knees are now being
turned on the mudbloods.” Malfoy smiled. “Sooner or later they will go on a
rampage and show everyone that they are but rabid animals. All of the
purebloods, even the blood traitors, will realise that.”
Black is no Dumbledore, and Granger may have Potter twisted around her finger,
but she has trouble controlling her own. The attack in Diagon Alley showed
that. The same tactics that brought the Ministry to its knees are now being
turned on the mudbloods.” Malfoy smiled. “Sooner or later they will go on a
rampage and show everyone that they are but rabid animals. All of the
purebloods, even the blood traitors, will realise that.”
“That will cost a lot of lives,” Tracey pointed out in a flat voice.
“Regrettable, but unavoidable.” Runcorn sighed. “Far more would die if the
mudbloods took over — you know that they want to wipe us all out.”
mudbloods took over — you know that they want to wipe us all out.”
More people voiced their agreement. Daphne slowly nodded. “They want revenge,
and they want the Old Families broken and gone. None of them care for our ways
and traditions. Not even the blood traitors.” She knew that very well from her
talk with Black and the twins.
and they want the Old Families broken and gone. None of them care for our ways
and traditions. Not even the blood traitors.” She knew that very well from her
talk with Black and the twins.
“Exactly. We’re fighting not just for us, but for every pureblood true to our
heritage. We’re fighting for what it means to be a British wizard,” Runcorn
declared. “Or a British witch,” he added, with slightly less pathos.
heritage. We’re fighting for what it means to be a British wizard,” Runcorn
declared. “Or a British witch,” he added, with slightly less pathos.
“Voting in the Wizengamot is not exactly fighting,” Tracey said. She might be
rushing things, Daphne thought, but neither Malfoy nor Runcorn had so far
admitted to being behind the attack.
rushing things, Daphne thought, but neither Malfoy nor Runcorn had so far
admitted to being behind the attack.
“If we lose the Wizengamot, we lose Britain,” Malfoy said. “Our enemies are
aware of that as well.”
aware of that as well.”
“There’s a flaw in your plan.” Daphne shook her head. “You can’t hope to stop
the mudbloods with the Ministry and whatever scared purebloods you can recruit
once the Resistance has started to fight seriously. You need far more wands
for that — and you need them before things escalate.”
the mudbloods with the Ministry and whatever scared purebloods you can recruit
once the Resistance has started to fight seriously. You need far more wands
for that — and you need them before things escalate.”
“We are aware of that,” Malfoy said, “and we’re taking appropriate measures.”
“Better hope that whoever’s doing those attacks doesn’t push the Resistance
too far before you’re ready,” Tracey said.
too far before you’re ready,” Tracey said.
Daphne saw a smile flicker over Malfoy’s face, before he nodded in a solemn
manner, and she was certain that he controlled those attackers, or at least
knew who was controlling them.
manner, and she was certain that he controlled those attackers, or at least
knew who was controlling them.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, March 16th 1997**
“You know that you don’t have to wait here? You could be networking with your
allies in the Wizengamot, or spending time with Harry or Vivienne. I’ll call
you as soon as they return.”
allies in the Wizengamot, or spending time with Harry or Vivienne. I’ll call
you as soon as they return.”
Sirius Black turned his head to his best friend — best friend still alive,
that was — and frowned. Remus sounded honestly concerned, but he was staring
at Sirius’s hands, which were fiddling with some knick-knack he had grabbed
from the shelves in Greengrass’s living room. The animagus scoffed. “Harry is
back at that camp. He said he didn’t want to miss out on any training that he
didn’t have to.” Privately, Sirius thought Harry still wasn’t too comfortable
spending time with Ron and Hermione — he had felt the same, at the start of
James and Lily’s relationship, and he hadn’t been in love with Lily. Not much,
at least. “And technically, I’m networking with my allies.” Not quite willing
allies.
that was — and frowned. Remus sounded honestly concerned, but he was staring
at Sirius’s hands, which were fiddling with some knick-knack he had grabbed
from the shelves in Greengrass’s living room. The animagus scoffed. “Harry is
back at that camp. He said he didn’t want to miss out on any training that he
didn’t have to.” Privately, Sirius thought Harry still wasn’t too comfortable
spending time with Ron and Hermione — he had felt the same, at the start of
James and Lily’s relationship, and he hadn’t been in love with Lily. Not much,
at least. “And technically, I’m networking with my allies.” Not quite willing
allies.
Remus raised an eyebrow, and Sirius sighed. Of course his friend was still as
perceptive as ever. “Vivienne is visiting family, Andromeda and Ted are
spending the evening with some friends, Arthur and Molly are with Bill and
Fleur, and I’d go mad if I stayed alone in the house with Kreacher.”
perceptive as ever. “Vivienne is visiting family, Andromeda and Ted are
spending the evening with some friends, Arthur and Molly are with Bill and
Fleur, and I’d go mad if I stayed alone in the house with Kreacher.”
Sirius half-expected his friend to crack a joke about him being mad already,
but Remus was too serious for that and simply nodded in understanding — he
knew all about being alone, of course.
but Remus was too serious for that and simply nodded in understanding — he
knew all about being alone, of course.
“How’s the little Death Eater doing, by the way?” Sirius asked after a quick
Mending Charm fixed the thing that had suddenly broken for no reason while he
was examining it.
Mending Charm fixed the thing that had suddenly broken for no reason while he
was examining it.
“Astoria” — Remus stressed the name — ‘is behaving.’ With a subtle sigh, he
added: “Although mostly out of fear, I think.”
added: “Although mostly out of fear, I think.”
“It’s a week until the full moon!” Sirius shook his head at the stupidity of
the family. And of everyone else in Britain.
the family. And of everyone else in Britain.
“Fear is not rational,” his friend said, with that sad smile Sirius hated.
“Another point in favour of the muggleborns — they at least have no
*irrational* fear of werewolves,” he grumbled. Most of them did not, at least.
Although that could be because they thought silver was a deadly weapon against
a werewolf.
*irrational* fear of werewolves,” he grumbled. Most of them did not, at least.
Although that could be because they thought silver was a deadly weapon against
a werewolf.
Remus shrugged. “Tonks is keeping an eye on her as well.”
“I don’t trust her. Greengrass’s sister, I mean,” Sirius clarified.
“She’s young and inexperienced.”
“She’s also a risk.” If she spilled what she knew about this… Sirius dropped
the knick-knack on the floor and started to twirl his wand around his fingers.
He had spent months learning how to do that without dropping it, back in third
year.
the knick-knack on the floor and started to twirl his wand around his fingers.
He had spent months learning how to do that without dropping it, back in third
year.
“She knows that her sister’s life is at stake.”
“Wouldn’t have stopped my brother from running to Voldemort.” Regulus had been
a dutiful Death Eater, after all.
a dutiful Death Eater, after all.
Remus sighed. “For one, there is no Dark Lord around any more. Just a bunch of
Old Families. Astoria isn’t likely to bow to them.”
Old Families. Astoria isn’t likely to bow to them.”
“Proud little pureblood, isn’t she?” Sirius chuckled.
“You haven’t met her,” his friend answered, narrowing his eyes slightly.
“I’ve heard about her. Nymphadora was quite vocal about her. And about
Greengrass and Davis.”
Greengrass and Davis.”
“Tonks is not exactly unbiased.” Remus pursed his lips slightly.
“Good! Neither am I!” Sirius grinned briefly, baring his teeth. “Though I
think she has more of an issue with Davis than with the Greengrasses. I think
while she loathes their irrational fear of you, she dislikes the fact that
Davis apparently isn’t afraid of you even more.”
think she has more of an issue with Davis than with the Greengrasses. I think
while she loathes their irrational fear of you, she dislikes the fact that
Davis apparently isn’t afraid of you even more.”
Remus coughed, just like he had when they had teased him about Marietta, back
in their fifth year. “It’s not a crush, just a young girl trying to shock and
tease her friend.”
in their fifth year. “It’s not a crush, just a young girl trying to shock and
tease her friend.”
“She’s just a few years younger than Tonks,” Sirius remarked, in a casual
tone, while he watched his friend.
tone, while he watched his friend.
“Seven years.”
Sirius shrugged. “As I said, just a few years younger.”
Remus sighed and closed his eyes, hunching over while he sagged back in his
seat.
seat.
“So…” Sirius drawled, “Any plans to do anything about the witch with a crush
on you?”
on you?”
“No.”
“Why not?” Sirius shifted in his seat, abandoning his casual pose to lean
forward. ‘And don’t give me that nonsense about your curse making a
relationship too dangerous for her.’ Remus opened his mouth, and Sirius cut
him off. “And no remarks about the age difference. Vivienne is barely a year
older than she is.” He paused for an instant, then went on: “And nothing about
how such a relationship would ruin her life or her career. The muggleborns
don’t care about the prejudices of the purebloods, and you know Hermione’s
plans for anti-discrimination laws.”
forward. ‘And don’t give me that nonsense about your curse making a
relationship too dangerous for her.’ Remus opened his mouth, and Sirius cut
him off. “And no remarks about the age difference. Vivienne is barely a year
older than she is.” He paused for an instant, then went on: “And nothing about
how such a relationship would ruin her life or her career. The muggleborns
don’t care about the prejudices of the purebloods, and you know Hermione’s
plans for anti-discrimination laws.”
Remus glared at him. Sirius smirked in response, until his friend sighed
again.
again.
“You don’t have an argument, do you?” Sirius said.
His friend didn’t answer, which was enough of an answer.
“Well… seems to be a case of irrational fear, in my expert opinion.” Sirius
chuckled at the expression on Remus’s face.
chuckled at the expression on Remus’s face.
“Emotions as a whole are rarely rational.” As an argument, that was weak,
especially for Remus.
especially for Remus.
“And fear is unbecoming for a Gryffindor!” Unlike Sirius’s own reasoning.
Unfortunately, the fireplace flared up and saved Remus from answering.
Greengrass and Davis stepped out of it, soot-stained but well enough.
“Welcome to Greengrass Manor,” Sirius said, idly spinning his wand around his
fingers again.
fingers again.
Greengrass glared at him, probably for the presumption of welcoming her to her
own home. “We have no proof, but it’s obvious that Malfoy and Runcorn are
connected to the latest attack in Diagon Alley,” she stated, before cleaning
her robes with her wand.
own home. “We have no proof, but it’s obvious that Malfoy and Runcorn are
connected to the latest attack in Diagon Alley,” she stated, before cleaning
her robes with her wand.
Sirius thought he saw her jaw clench, and rubbed his beard. “Are you certain?”
“Yes,” Greengrass spat out. “They all but said so.”
“That’s the difference between proof and assumption,” Remus said.
“They insinuated that they can know, or even control when the next attack will
happen, and plan accordingly,” Davis said, smiling at Remus. “They wouldn’t
risk so much if they had no control or at least prior knowledge.”
happen, and plan accordingly,” Davis said, smiling at Remus. “They wouldn’t
risk so much if they had no control or at least prior knowledge.”
Sirius narrowed his eyes at that smile. He wasn’t a Slytherin, but he had
grown up in a family of them, and he didn’t think the little witch could act
well enough to fool him. Maybe she had a weakness for older men, and for the
kind of boys her parents warned her away from. Or would have, in Davis’s case,
since they were dead. He shook his head, focusing on more important matters.
“That means that unless Nott is a better liar than you assume, they also
control him. Or someone controls both of them.”
grown up in a family of them, and he didn’t think the little witch could act
well enough to fool him. Maybe she had a weakness for older men, and for the
kind of boys her parents warned her away from. Or would have, in Davis’s case,
since they were dead. He shook his head, focusing on more important matters.
“That means that unless Nott is a better liar than you assume, they also
control him. Or someone controls both of them.”
“They didn’t act like wizards acting under orders,” Greengrass remarked.
Sirius inclined his head. “They might not realise that they are being
manipulated.” After all, if they had any sense, they wouldn’t try to restart a
war they had already lost once.
manipulated.” After all, if they had any sense, they wouldn’t try to restart a
war they had already lost once.
“Is it enough to question them with Veritaserum?” Davis asked. She didn’t have
to say that she wasn’t talking about an interrogation by the Ministry.
to say that she wasn’t talking about an interrogation by the Ministry.
“Maybe.” Sirius saw the two witches exchange brief smiles. “But we’ll need you
to capture them, should we decide on that course of action.”
to capture them, should we decide on that course of action.”
He grinned when their smiles vanished.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 17th, 1997**
After another hour of waiting, and without company, Sirius Black was ready to
change into Padfoot and chase Kreacher just to vent some of his frustration.
Then Vivienne returned from her family dinner, and his heart lifted. He
stopped his pacing and turned towards her, opening his arms.
change into Padfoot and chase Kreacher just to vent some of his frustration.
Then Vivienne returned from her family dinner, and his heart lifted. He
stopped his pacing and turned towards her, opening his arms.
She slid into his embrace, and he knew things hadn’t gone well — she was
stiff, and tense, and taking deeper breaths than usual while she rested her
chin on his shoulder.
stiff, and tense, and taking deeper breaths than usual while she rested her
chin on his shoulder.
“What happened?” he asked, when he released her.
“My suspicions were confirmed,” she said.
“France is supporting these attacks?” Even though he knew that the French had
asked her to spy on him, Sirius had trouble believing they’d go that far.
asked her to spy on him, Sirius had trouble believing they’d go that far.
“Not officially, of course. But the Duc is turning a blind eye to the
machinations of Beaumont and ’er co-conspirators. Like ’e turned a blind eye
to our intervention in the war.” Vivienne smiled weakly. “Ma mère said that
they do not trust the muggleborns. Not with Dumbledore dead.”
machinations of Beaumont and ’er co-conspirators. Like ’e turned a blind eye
to our intervention in the war.” Vivienne smiled weakly. “Ma mère said that
they do not trust the muggleborns. Not with Dumbledore dead.”
“Your family?”
She shook her head. “The Court, or the majority of it, to be exact. Ma famille
is split as well.”
is split as well.”
“And the Duc supports this?” Magical France was supposed to be a monarchy,
wasn’t it?
wasn’t it?
“That is not known. Some think ’e condones weakening Britain and especially
British muggleborns. Others think ’e wants Beaumont’s faction of the Court
weakened.” Vivienne looked rather dejected.
British muggleborns. Others think ’e wants Beaumont’s faction of the Court
weakened.” Vivienne looked rather dejected.
“And what do you think?” He ran a hand over her cheek, then cupped her chin
when she looked up at him.
when she looked up at him.
“I think ’e prefers to remain ignorant — officially — of what is being done,
so ’e can later claim whatever serves ’is interests best.” Vivienne snorted.
“It wouldn’t be the first time that ’e ’as done something like this, but so
far, it was always internal politics.”
so ’e can later claim whatever serves ’is interests best.” Vivienne snorted.
“It wouldn’t be the first time that ’e ’as done something like this, but so
far, it was always internal politics.”
“So, in order to stop this, we need to convince him that the faction trying to
sabotage us won’t win,” Sirius mused. “Or we threaten him with organising a
rebellion among the French muggleborns.”
sabotage us won’t win,” Sirius mused. “Or we threaten him with organising a
rebellion among the French muggleborns.”
Vivienne hissed. “That would confirm the Court’s fears. And lead to war.” She
shook her head, her long hair whipping around.
shook her head, her long hair whipping around.
“That leaves dealing with the French agents in Britain then. Whom we first
have to find.” Sirius sighed. That meant they couldn’t take out Nott, or
Malfoy and Runcorn. They needed them to find their contacts. But at the same
time, they couldn’t let them start a war with another attack…
have to find.” Sirius sighed. That meant they couldn’t take out Nott, or
Malfoy and Runcorn. They needed them to find their contacts. But at the same
time, they couldn’t let them start a war with another attack…
He sighed. Even with the new information they had gained today, things had
become more, not less complicated.
become more, not less complicated.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 17th, 1997**
Hermione Granger rubbed her wrist, then checked her watch. It was far too late
to continue her attempts to learn a new spell. Especially a houngan spell. But
she had to learn this spell, so she could tell if Reid was trying to
double-cross them at Hogwarts. And with this latest crisis threatening to turn
into another war, she did not have much time.
to continue her attempts to learn a new spell. Especially a houngan spell. But
she had to learn this spell, so she could tell if Reid was trying to
double-cross them at Hogwarts. And with this latest crisis threatening to turn
into another war, she did not have much time.
At least John had done a good job with the radio broadcasts, and the leaflets.
If they were lucky, the muggleborns would take heed and not start
indiscriminately attacking purebloods. She frowned, dropping her wand. Not all
would listen to them. Those hecklers… she ran a hand through her hair,
twisting some strands in frustration. They wouldn’t listen to mere words, or
leaflets. But, or so she hoped, they would stay their hands until the rally in
Hogsmeade next weekend. Although organising and securing that rally would take
a lot of time and effort.
If they were lucky, the muggleborns would take heed and not start
indiscriminately attacking purebloods. She frowned, dropping her wand. Not all
would listen to them. Those hecklers… she ran a hand through her hair,
twisting some strands in frustration. They wouldn’t listen to mere words, or
leaflets. But, or so she hoped, they would stay their hands until the rally in
Hogsmeade next weekend. Although organising and securing that rally would take
a lot of time and effort.
And Hermione knew that the Resistance would need something more than words to
placate the muggleborns by then. If they could catch those behind the attack
on Winston’s, then that should suffice to keep the muggleborns from lashing
out by rioting, or worse. Should.
placate the muggleborns by then. If they could catch those behind the attack
on Winston’s, then that should suffice to keep the muggleborns from lashing
out by rioting, or worse. Should.
She frowned. They didn’t have any clues as to the attackers’ identity, though.
Not yet. Nott wasn’t responsible, or so it appeared, But he was responsible
for other attacks. Probably. And they knew where he lived. If they made no
progress with the investigation into this attack, then he’d have to do. Also,
Nott had escaped justice once; many muggleborns would cheer his capture or
death just for that.
Not yet. Nott wasn’t responsible, or so it appeared, But he was responsible
for other attacks. Probably. And they knew where he lived. If they made no
progress with the investigation into this attack, then he’d have to do. Also,
Nott had escaped justice once; many muggleborns would cheer his capture or
death just for that.
She snorted — this was how Dumbledore must have felt, she thought, weighing
sacrifices and ploys in an attempt to keep the country from destroying itself.
She rubbed her eyes, and went back to studying the notes the houngan had
provided. At first glance, the spell appeared to be a simple detection spell,
not that different from the Human-presence-revealing spell, if more focused.
But something felt wrong — the casting instructions were too complicated for
such a spell. Not something she’d expect from a spell that had undoubtedly
been refined over centuries. And she didn’t think the houngans, who had
stalemated the British wizards in half a dozen conflicts, would have developed
a spell that was more complicated than needed.
sacrifices and ploys in an attempt to keep the country from destroying itself.
She rubbed her eyes, and went back to studying the notes the houngan had
provided. At first glance, the spell appeared to be a simple detection spell,
not that different from the Human-presence-revealing spell, if more focused.
But something felt wrong — the casting instructions were too complicated for
such a spell. Not something she’d expect from a spell that had undoubtedly
been refined over centuries. And she didn’t think the houngans, who had
stalemated the British wizards in half a dozen conflicts, would have developed
a spell that was more complicated than needed.
She finally realised what was bothering her when she used Arithmancy to
cross-check the wand movements and the incantations with similar spells she
knew. It was a ritual. A very efficient ritual, not that much slower to cast
than a regular, if complicated, spell, but a ritual nonetheless.
cross-check the wand movements and the incantations with similar spells she
knew. It was a ritual. A very efficient ritual, not that much slower to cast
than a regular, if complicated, spell, but a ritual nonetheless.
And that changed everything.
Hermione pressed her lips together. Rituals could be varied. Enhanced.
Empowered. Often with sacrifices. With the right sacrifice, this spell could
cover a lot of ground. It wouldn’t need to be cast that many times to cover
the British Isles.
Empowered. Often with sacrifices. With the right sacrifice, this spell could
cover a lot of ground. It wouldn’t need to be cast that many times to cover
the British Isles.
Maybe Reid was so determined to inspect Hogwarts because he had already
checked the areas of Britain that were not as heavily warded as the school?
But that would have cost lives. A lot of them. And Reid wouldn’t have had
enough time since his arrival, even if he had captured enough victims. Unless…
she hissed. Unless he or accomplices had been in Britain already, trying to
track the missing skull with such rituals. Dear Lord — how many people could
have been killed for such an attempt?
checked the areas of Britain that were not as heavily warded as the school?
But that would have cost lives. A lot of them. And Reid wouldn’t have had
enough time since his arrival, even if he had captured enough victims. Unless…
she hissed. Unless he or accomplices had been in Britain already, trying to
track the missing skull with such rituals. Dear Lord — how many people could
have been killed for such an attempt?
She shook her head. She had no proof, not even a shred of evidence — missing
muggles wouldn’t be noticed that quickly if their kidnappers were even a
little skilled — but… if she was correct, then they’d be taking a monster to
Hogwarts.
muggles wouldn’t be noticed that quickly if their kidnappers were even a
little skilled — but… if she was correct, then they’d be taking a monster to
Hogwarts.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 18th, 1997**
Bess Cox glared at the two Aurors she saw walking down Diagon Alley. She
wasn’t the only one — none of the muggleborns out on the street bothered to
hide their disgust at the Ministry’s lackeys. It was telling that they hadn’t
shown up in increased numbers until now.
wasn’t the only one — none of the muggleborns out on the street bothered to
hide their disgust at the Ministry’s lackeys. It was telling that they hadn’t
shown up in increased numbers until now.
She scoffed, and turned away. She walked a bit faster, both because anger
drove her on, and because she was already a bit late. Stuffing her hands in
the pockets of her jacket with a huff, she turned into the next side alley.
drove her on, and because she was already a bit late. Stuffing her hands in
the pockets of her jacket with a huff, she turned into the next side alley.
After three days straight of going to Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips for dinner, the
owner greeted her with a nod and a friendly smile. And so did Randall.
owner greeted her with a nod and a friendly smile. And so did Randall.
“Hi.”
“Hi.”
She took the seat opposite his, at the same table where they had first met.
There was no need to order — Freddie was already frying up their dinner.
“Sorry I’m late.”
There was no need to order — Freddie was already frying up their dinner.
“Sorry I’m late.”
He dismissed her apology with a flick of his hand. “Happens.”
She smiled, then she saw the folded leaflet next to his wand on the table, and
scowled. “Another one?” she asked, nodding towards it. “Did they finally stop
sucking up to the purebloods?” The Resistance had been spreading hundreds of
those, all with the same message as their recent radio broadcasts: Don’t
attack purebloods.
scowled. “Another one?” she asked, nodding towards it. “Did they finally stop
sucking up to the purebloods?” The Resistance had been spreading hundreds of
those, all with the same message as their recent radio broadcasts: Don’t
attack purebloods.
He shook his head. “The Resistance is holding a rally in Hogsmeade this
Sunday. The leaflet is mostly about that.” With a grin, he added: “But they
also stress that it’ll be a peaceful rally.”
Sunday. The leaflet is mostly about that.” With a grin, he added: “But they
also stress that it’ll be a peaceful rally.”
Bess shook her head. Now that Granger was on the Wizengamot, she was
supporting the regime. Just like so many revolutionaries in history. The
Resistance’s soldiers would probably soon do joint patrols with the Aurors.
Maybe they’d dye their uniforms red as well, to better fit in. “They’re
selling us out,” she spat. “The Resistance killed every pureblood they could
get during the war, but suddenly, that’s wrong? I guess shagging Weasley and
Potter is more important to Granger.” She ground her teeth.
supporting the regime. Just like so many revolutionaries in history. The
Resistance’s soldiers would probably soon do joint patrols with the Aurors.
Maybe they’d dye their uniforms red as well, to better fit in. “They’re
selling us out,” she spat. “The Resistance killed every pureblood they could
get during the war, but suddenly, that’s wrong? I guess shagging Weasley and
Potter is more important to Granger.” She ground her teeth.
Randall snorted, but he was shaking his head. “I heard Potter, and he had a
point — purebloods fought for us as well. Not all purebloods are bad.”
point — purebloods fought for us as well. Not all purebloods are bad.”
“Just most of them,” Bess said. “During the war, Dumbledore claimed to fight
for us, but he stabbed us in the back when we fought as well.”
for us, but he stabbed us in the back when we fought as well.”
Before Randall could answer, Freddie called out their orders. “I’ll get them,”
Bess said, and summoned them. She was quite proud that she didn’t lose any
chips on the way — her first attempt two days ago hadn’t been that successful.
Bess said, and summoned them. She was quite proud that she didn’t lose any
chips on the way — her first attempt two days ago hadn’t been that successful.
“You were talking about the attack on Hogsmeade,” Randall said, almost
whispering.
whispering.
Bess tensed. She was still wanted, as far as she knew — the Pardon only
covered the Resistance and the Order of the Phoenix. There was a reason she
hadn’t told Randall her last name.
covered the Resistance and the Order of the Phoenix. There was a reason she
hadn’t told Randall her last name.
“Don’t worry.” Randall smiled. “I often wish I had done something myself.”
Bess slowly nodded and grabbed a few chips to buy some time for her answer.
They were too hot and she hissed before taking a sip from her beer.
They were too hot and she hissed before taking a sip from her beer.
He chuckled. “One thing the Resistance got right, though: We can’t simply lash
out at the first pureblood we see. That would play into our enemies’ hands.”
out at the first pureblood we see. That would play into our enemies’ hands.”
“We can’t let them get away with it either, or they’ll never stop,” Bess
countered. She’d love to find the scum who had killed her friends, but she
couldn’t exactly search the Ministry reports, not as a wanted witch. And
neither could she talk to the French and the Order members who had caught them
at Hogsmeade. At least, she consoled herself, odds were that they were killed
in the later battles anyway.
countered. She’d love to find the scum who had killed her friends, but she
couldn’t exactly search the Ministry reports, not as a wanted witch. And
neither could she talk to the French and the Order members who had caught them
at Hogsmeade. At least, she consoled herself, odds were that they were killed
in the later battles anyway.
“We’d need to find them first. And that might prove a bit difficult.”
“We can at least try,” Bess said. “We’ve got a list.” She didn’t have to say
which list she meant.
which list she meant.
Randall nodded. “They can’t exactly blame us if we catch Death Eaters they are
hunting as well.”
hunting as well.”
Bess nodded. “Won’t be easy, though.”
“It won’t. But I think I have an idea.”
“Oh?”
Randall smiled. “Have you heard about the ‘TV trouble mystery’?”
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 18th, 1997**
“This is torture!” Ron Weasley let himself belly-flop on the bed in his tent
as if he was acting the part of one of the wounded for an exercise.
as if he was acting the part of one of the wounded for an exercise.
He heard Harry chuckle. “It’s still not as bad as Wood’s training.”
“Says you,” Ron grumbled into his pillow.
“And I’m the one who had him as Team Captain for three years, so I would
know.”
know.”
“It’s been three years since, and you were but a boy back then,” Ron said.
“So?”
“You probably misremember it. All those bludgers to the head won’t have
helped.”
helped.”
Harry didn’t answer, but a pillow hit Ron’s head a second later. He counted
that as a win.
that as a win.
Rolling on his back and sitting up, he banished the pillow back to his friend.
“So… when’s dinner?”
“So… when’s dinner?”
“In half an hour.”
“Enough time for a nap then.” The Sergeant had told them that soldiers slept
whenever they could, since they never knew when they could sleep again.
whenever they could, since they never knew when they could sleep again.
“Clean the paintball stains off your fatigues first,” Harry said.
Ron considered arguing that he was protecting the Statute of Secrecy by not
doing it, but decided not to — the two muggle instructors already suspected
something, after all, but everyone was carefully avoiding the subject. He
pointed his wand at his chest. “Scourgify! Now let me nap.”
doing it, but decided not to — the two muggle instructors already suspected
something, after all, but everyone was carefully avoiding the subject. He
pointed his wand at his chest. “Scourgify! Now let me nap.”
He had barely closed his eyes, though, when he heard another voice. “Ron?
Harry? Are you decent?”
Harry? Are you decent?”
“Hermione?” Ron sat up.
“I’ll take that as a ‘yes’,” she said, entering their tent.
He stood up and moved to hug her. “I didn’t expect to see you so soon. Did you
learn the spell already?” He’d have thought that even for her, a houngan spell
might prove more of a challenge.
learn the spell already?” He’d have thought that even for her, a houngan spell
might prove more of a challenge.
“More or less,” she answered when he let her go. “And I found out something
that we need to talk about. With Sirius.”
that we need to talk about. With Sirius.”
“Weren’t you just at Grimmauld Place?” Harry asked.
“Yes. But I want you to be there when we discuss this.” Hermione looked at
Harry and at Ron. “And Sirius was busy in the Ministry today anyway.”
Harry and at Ron. “And Sirius was busy in the Ministry today anyway.”
That didn’t sound good to Ron. He sighed. “Let me guess: We’re in deeper
trouble than we thought.”
trouble than we thought.”
She pursed her lips. “We’ve discussed worse situations.”
“I’ll take that as a yes,” Ron said, glancing at Harry.
Harry snorted, but nodded. “Let’s go home then. We can eat there.”
“Mum’s cooking?” Ron asked. The camp cook, one of the recruits, tried her
best, but his mum beat most professional chefs, in his admittedly biased
opinion.
best, but his mum beat most professional chefs, in his admittedly biased
opinion.
“Yes,” Hermione said, with a faint smile.
“Let’s go then!”
“Don’t you want to take a nap first?” Harry asked.
Ron didn’t bother with a reply.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 18th, 1997**
“So, if my theory is correct then Reid or one of his allies have already
searched most of Britain for the missing skull. Only the most secure places —
Hogwarts, Gringotts, perhaps the Ministry — are left. And they have murdered
people for that. Sacrificed them in dark rituals.” Hermione said in Sirius’s
living room, standing next to her seat with her arms folded over her chest.
searched most of Britain for the missing skull. Only the most secure places —
Hogwarts, Gringotts, perhaps the Ministry — are left. And they have murdered
people for that. Sacrificed them in dark rituals.” Hermione said in Sirius’s
living room, standing next to her seat with her arms folded over her chest.
Sirius nodded, looking rather grim. “How certain are you of this?”
Hermione bit her lower lip. “I haven’t tested it, for obvious reasons, but the
Arithmancy supports it, although some houngan peculiarities might be different
enough to throw the calculations off, but the general principles are universal
for spell crafting, and in this case the indicators are almost identical to
some of the works in your library…” She took a deep breath, then raised her
chin slightly. “We cannot afford not to assume the worst here. I’m certain of
that.”
Arithmancy supports it, although some houngan peculiarities might be different
enough to throw the calculations off, but the general principles are universal
for spell crafting, and in this case the indicators are almost identical to
some of the works in your library…” She took a deep breath, then raised her
chin slightly. “We cannot afford not to assume the worst here. I’m certain of
that.”
Ron Weasley smiled, despite the grave news she had just delivered. He loved
how passionate she was.
how passionate she was.
Harry grumbled a curse under his breath. “Even assuming the worst, what can we
do?”
do?”
Vivienne held up a hand. “Could ’e have given you misleading notes and
information?”
information?”
That was a good question, Ron thought. Judging by Hermione’s frown, she didn’t
share his opinion. “I’ve cross-checked what I could with books from Sirius’s
library. I do not think that Reid could have been aware of all of my
references to anticipate that.”
share his opinion. “I’ve cross-checked what I could with books from Sirius’s
library. I do not think that Reid could have been aware of all of my
references to anticipate that.”
“But ’oungan magic is different, and we don’t know much about it,” Vivienne
said.
said.
“Magic is, essentially, magic. The basic principles are the same for all
spells,” Hermione countered. “Houngans cannot get around the laws of magic
either. Those which have been proven, at least,” she added with a frown.
spells,” Hermione countered. “Houngans cannot get around the laws of magic
either. Those which have been proven, at least,” she added with a frown.
“There aren’t that many of those, though,” Sirius said.
Ron shook his head. “Hermione’s right, though — we can’t afford to dismiss
this.” The smile that support earned him from her made him smile in return.
this.” The smile that support earned him from her made him smile in return.
“And what can we do?” Harry, ever the practical wizard, asked again.
“Watch him, as we planned. And send him on his way as soon as possible,”
Sirius said. “Even if we knew for certain and could prove that he murdered
people, we can’t arrest a delegate from the ICW.”
Sirius said. “Even if we knew for certain and could prove that he murdered
people, we can’t arrest a delegate from the ICW.”
Ron glanced at Harry, then at Hermione. Sirius must have caught it, since he
added: “We can’t kill him either. Or rather,” Sirius held up a hand, “We
could, but the consequences would be devastating. You do not kill a delegate.
That’s about as bad a crime as conspiring to break the Statue of Secrecy. And
as harshly punished.”
added: “We can’t kill him either. Or rather,” Sirius held up a hand, “We
could, but the consequences would be devastating. You do not kill a delegate.
That’s about as bad a crime as conspiring to break the Statue of Secrecy. And
as harshly punished.”
Ron shivered — he had heard about the Intervention in Africa. Every magical
child, except the muggleborns, of course, was taught this, to make them
understand how important it was to keep magic a secret from muggles.
child, except the muggleborns, of course, was taught this, to make them
understand how important it was to keep magic a secret from muggles.
“And what if he tries to kill us? To keep any knowledge about this spell a
secret?” Harry asked.
secret?” Harry asked.
Hermione gasped, and Ron stiffened — the whole problem had started because the
houngans wanted to keep the knowledge in their library secret, hadn’t it?
houngans wanted to keep the knowledge in their library secret, hadn’t it?
“He’ll know we’ll have taken precautions, should something happen to us. And
he’ll know he can’t overcome all of us to control us,” Sirius said.
he’ll know he can’t overcome all of us to control us,” Sirius said.
“Unless he has help,” Hermione countered. “His assistants, and whoever he has
infiltrated into Britain. Or controls.”
infiltrated into Britain. Or controls.”
“The Death Eaters?” Ron blinked. “Do you think they are working with
houngans?” That was impossible — the feud with Jamaica went back for
centuries. The Old Families hated the houngans.
houngans?” That was impossible — the feud with Jamaica went back for
centuries. The Old Families hated the houngans.
Sirius looked rather sceptical as well, but Hermione shrugged. “Why not?
They’re hypocrites anyway. And they don’t even have to know who they are
working for.”
They’re hypocrites anyway. And they don’t even have to know who they are
working for.”
“If they don’t know who they are working for, then that would make any attack
on us dangerous for Reid as well, as long as he is with us. And coordinating
such an attack nigh-impossible.”
on us dangerous for Reid as well, as long as he is with us. And coordinating
such an attack nigh-impossible.”
“And I doubt that the Death Eaters would be so foolish as to attack a
delegate,” Ron pointed out.
delegate,” Ron pointed out.
Hermione looked unconvinced, but that was probably just because she loathed
being proved wrong. She didn’t argue, though she frowned. Then she took a deep
breath. “Speaking of Death Eaters, we need to do something about Nott.”
being proved wrong. She didn’t argue, though she frowned. Then she took a deep
breath. “Speaking of Death Eaters, we need to do something about Nott.”
“What do you mean?” Sirius asked.
Hermione turned to face him. “We’re doing what we can to calm people down, but
you saw the crowd in Diagon Alley, and you heard the hecklers — if we don’t
catch the ones behind the attack, the muggleborns, at least some of them, will
attack purebloods indiscriminately,” Hermione said. “My friends from the
Resistance have been in Diagon Alley regularly, and the mood is growing worse
despite our best efforts.”
you saw the crowd in Diagon Alley, and you heard the hecklers — if we don’t
catch the ones behind the attack, the muggleborns, at least some of them, will
attack purebloods indiscriminately,” Hermione said. “My friends from the
Resistance have been in Diagon Alley regularly, and the mood is growing worse
despite our best efforts.”
Ron nodded. He had seen that crowd, and he could easily see them turning into
a mob and starting a riot. Like the one in Diagon Alley last August. He had
seen the carnage, had fought in it himself. So many had died in it…
a mob and starting a riot. Like the one in Diagon Alley last August. He had
seen the carnage, had fought in it himself. So many had died in it…
“But we need them to find whoever is behind this,” Sirius said. “We need to
put a stop to this.”
put a stop to this.”
“Finding whoever is behind this won’t matter if another war has already broken
out by that point.” Hermione shook her head. “They will have succeeded.”
out by that point.” Hermione shook her head. “They will have succeeded.”
“But if they know we’re on to them, they’ll be on their guard. We won’t get
another good chance to find them.” Sirius stood his ground. “And we would need
to catch him in the act to prove his guilt.”
another good chance to find them.” Sirius stood his ground. “And we would need
to catch him in the act to prove his guilt.”
“We can stage something,” Hermione said. “We know he’s guilty.”
“’E could be just grandstanding,” Vivienne cut in. “I ’ave a ’ard time
believing that French plotters would work with the likes of ’im.”
believing that French plotters would work with the likes of ’im.”
“Why? Do you think they’d be above working with Death Eaters? The French
purebloods don’t really like muggleborns, do they?” Hermione narrowed her eyes
at the Veela, and Ron almost stood up to intervene.
purebloods don’t really like muggleborns, do they?” Hermione narrowed her eyes
at the Veela, and Ron almost stood up to intervene.
“No. But ’e sounds too stupid to be used in a plot.” Vivienne met the younger
witch’s stare.
witch’s stare.
Sirius cleared his throat. “Before we start duelling each other, let’s get
back to plotting how to defeat our enemies. If we truly need a sacrifice — a
success — to placate the muggleborns, then Nott is the best choice. But in
order to stage an attack by him, we need to capture him first. And for that,
we need to break into his manor. Doing that without leaving traces that not
even the Aurors can’t miss will be difficult.”
back to plotting how to defeat our enemies. If we truly need a sacrifice — a
success — to placate the muggleborns, then Nott is the best choice. But in
order to stage an attack by him, we need to capture him first. And for that,
we need to break into his manor. Doing that without leaving traces that not
even the Aurors can’t miss will be difficult.”
“We can stage an attack without him, claim we saw him, then attack his manor
in retaliation,” Harry said. He shrugged. “Anyone who knows him won’t be
surprised that he took a shot at us.”
in retaliation,” Harry said. He shrugged. “Anyone who knows him won’t be
surprised that he took a shot at us.”
“The Ministry won’t be pleased,” Ron said. “Dad said that Bones is growing
worse each day. She’s not cut out to be a Minister.”
worse each day. She’s not cut out to be a Minister.”
“The Ministry is never pleased.” Sirius sniffed. “We can claim that we didn’t
want to risk spies in the Ministry warning Nott. We’ll need a good excuse for
how we identified him, and of course he can’t be allowed to survive. And we
need enough time to interrogate him thoroughly.”
want to risk spies in the Ministry warning Nott. We’ll need a good excuse for
how we identified him, and of course he can’t be allowed to survive. And we
need enough time to interrogate him thoroughly.”
That sounded quite impossible to Ron. Even the current, gutted Ministry with
so many inexperienced Aurors wouldn’t buy that.
so many inexperienced Aurors wouldn’t buy that.
“We don’t need to interrogate him. Just force him to copy all the memories
relating to the attacks he took part in; we can analyse them at leisure in the
Pensieve.” Hermione crossed her arms. “We won’t be able to ask him what he
knows, but he probably won’t know anything important anyway.”
relating to the attacks he took part in; we can analyse them at leisure in the
Pensieve.” Hermione crossed her arms. “We won’t be able to ask him what he
knows, but he probably won’t know anything important anyway.”
Ron nodded. It was a good plan. Even though it meant someone among them would
have to use the Imperius — they had to be certain that Nott wasn’t tricking
them with the wrong memories. Legilimency would be an alternative, but they
would still have to force him to give them his memories — and the means used
for that would likely be illegal as well. That meant the stakes had just risen
even higher.
have to use the Imperius — they had to be certain that Nott wasn’t tricking
them with the wrong memories. Legilimency would be an alternative, but they
would still have to force him to give them his memories — and the means used
for that would likely be illegal as well. That meant the stakes had just risen
even higher.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 19th, 1997**
A muggleborn rally. In Hogsmeade. This weekend. Amelia Bones wanted to curse
and rant, to vent her anger. But she was better than that. Instead, she simply
nodded. “I see.”
and rant, to vent her anger. But she was better than that. Instead, she simply
nodded. “I see.”
Pius hesitated a fraction of a second before continuing. Had he expected her
to lose her composure? “Miss Granger has also requested that the Ministry
refrains from ‘provocative gestures in light of the tension between
muggleborns and the Ministry’.”
to lose her composure? “Miss Granger has also requested that the Ministry
refrains from ‘provocative gestures in light of the tension between
muggleborns and the Ministry’.”
“They want us to stay away from the rally.” Amelia translated.
“Yes.”
“And yet, if something happens, they’ll blame the Ministry for the very
absence they require.” She let some of her frustration leak into her voice.
absence they require.” She let some of her frustration leak into her voice.
“I do not think the Resistance would go that far. Miss Granger strikes me as
being rather concerned with appearing to be fair and a person of integrity,”
Pius said. “Other muggleborns, however, do not seem to share those traits.”
being rather concerned with appearing to be fair and a person of integrity,”
Pius said. “Other muggleborns, however, do not seem to share those traits.”
She scoffed. “She wants to appear fair and honourable, but she’s a murderess
trying to stuff the genie she unleashed back into the bottle she broke.” She
looked at Pius, who was standing in front of her desk, but he was carefully
not saying anything. She shook her head at him. “You know that she’s planning
to do away with the Wizengamot and replace it with a muggle-style parliament.
And the Ministry will follow after that.”
trying to stuff the genie she unleashed back into the bottle she broke.” She
looked at Pius, who was standing in front of her desk, but he was carefully
not saying anything. She shook her head at him. “You know that she’s planning
to do away with the Wizengamot and replace it with a muggle-style parliament.
And the Ministry will follow after that.”
“The Wizengamot is the ultimate authority in Wizarding Britain. Their power
includes ceding their authority.” Pius wasn’t looking at her, but at the wall
behind her seat.
includes ceding their authority.” Pius wasn’t looking at her, but at the wall
behind her seat.
“So, that’s it, then.” Amelia snorted. “I hope you got a good deal for your
‘help’.”
‘help’.”
Pius didn’t say anything, but she saw him tense, and smirked. It was a cheap
and small victory, but she’d take what she could get. “The delegates aren’t
happy about the lack of progress in our hunt for the ones responsible for the
attack on that pub,” she said. Privately, she was certain they were very happy
about having an excuse to stay and keep harassing the Ministry.
and small victory, but she’d take what she could get. “The delegates aren’t
happy about the lack of progress in our hunt for the ones responsible for the
attack on that pub,” she said. Privately, she was certain they were very happy
about having an excuse to stay and keep harassing the Ministry.
He wasn’t thrown by the sudden change in topic. “I have a source investigating
a possible link between the attackers and certain members of the Wizengamot.”
a possible link between the attackers and certain members of the Wizengamot.”
She hissed. “Malfoy and Runcorn?” Since they had failed to gain her help, it
would make sense for them to stoop to such means.
would make sense for them to stoop to such means.
“So far they haven’t found anything incriminating. But the two are in contact
with Greengrass and Davis.”
with Greengrass and Davis.”
The two Death Eater witches who had been acquitted by the Wizengamot. If the
Ministry managed to get them to trial this time, with the changed balance of
power in the Wizengamot… that should placate the muggleborns, at least for a
little. “Put surveillance on both of them! Use only your most trusted wands. I
will not tolerate any leaks. To anyone. We’ll be doing this by the book.”
There would be no warning for the two witches. And there would be no vigilante
action by the Order.
Ministry managed to get them to trial this time, with the changed balance of
power in the Wizengamot… that should placate the muggleborns, at least for a
little. “Put surveillance on both of them! Use only your most trusted wands. I
will not tolerate any leaks. To anyone. We’ll be doing this by the book.”
There would be no warning for the two witches. And there would be no vigilante
action by the Order.
Pius nodded. “I’ll get on it, then.”
Right before he reached the door, she said. “I’ll hold you personally
responsible for this, Pius.”
responsible for this, Pius.”
This time she was certain that he stiffened before nodding.
---
**Near Morant Bay, Jamaica, March 20th, 1997**
It had taken three days for someone to notice his actions, Augustus Rookwood
noted when his spells alerted him to an attack on the wards. The houngans
apparently were as private — or divided — as he had heard from Duchamp.
noted when his spells alerted him to an attack on the wards. The houngans
apparently were as private — or divided — as he had heard from Duchamp.
He would have liked to have more time, of course — he had barely managed to
sort through half the library of the manor, and most of the tomes were still
cursed. And while he had found some fascinating volumes, including a few books
on dark curses thought lost which had to have been looted from a British
wizard during the rebellion in 1752, he hadn’t found much about the skull in
his possession.
sort through half the library of the manor, and most of the tomes were still
cursed. And while he had found some fascinating volumes, including a few books
on dark curses thought lost which had to have been looted from a British
wizard during the rebellion in 1752, he hadn’t found much about the skull in
his possession.
He was tempted to simply summon and shrink the remaining books, but given the
protections on them, that would be foolhardy. And he wasn’t a fool.
protections on them, that would be foolhardy. And he wasn’t a fool.
He would have to try again to capture a houngan. For a moment, he was tempted
to do so right away — the wards of the manor were still effective, and would
hinder the attackers as much as they would himself as soon as he left the
house, and whoever was attacking the wards would certainly be tied up in them.
But they wouldn’t be alone. Unless this was a rival of the houngan he had
killed — Markus Williams, not that he cared — there would be several powerful
wizards waiting for just such an attack. No, discretion was the better part of
valour here. He was a Slytherin, after all, not a Gryffindor.
to do so right away — the wards of the manor were still effective, and would
hinder the attackers as much as they would himself as soon as he left the
house, and whoever was attacking the wards would certainly be tied up in them.
But they wouldn’t be alone. Unless this was a rival of the houngan he had
killed — Markus Williams, not that he cared — there would be several powerful
wizards waiting for just such an attack. No, discretion was the better part of
valour here. He was a Slytherin, after all, not a Gryffindor.
He tried apparating to the door of the library, and, as expected, failed. His
Portkey didn’t work either. He snorted — as if he’d rely on such obvious
methods of evasion. But if the attackers had taken such measures to restrict
magical travel, they would be covering the sky as well. Which would further
stretch their forces.
Portkey didn’t work either. He snorted — as if he’d rely on such obvious
methods of evasion. But if the attackers had taken such measures to restrict
magical travel, they would be covering the sky as well. Which would further
stretch their forces.
He cast a Shield Charm and a Human-presence-revealing Spell before stepping
out of the library and into the dusty hallways of the manor. Except for
vanishing the corpses of the staff, lest they might rise as zombies, he hadn’t
bothered wasting any time on cleaning up. He hadn’t heard the sounds of
breaking wards yet, so they seemed to be holding just fine, despite
Williamson’s death. Good crafting — maybe the original owner of the mansion
had been killed while away, and the wards had never been destroyed?
out of the library and into the dusty hallways of the manor. Except for
vanishing the corpses of the staff, lest they might rise as zombies, he hadn’t
bothered wasting any time on cleaning up. He hadn’t heard the sounds of
breaking wards yet, so they seemed to be holding just fine, despite
Williamson’s death. Good crafting — maybe the original owner of the mansion
had been killed while away, and the wards had never been destroyed?
He had no time to dwell on such matters; the attackers wouldn’t take too much
longer if they truly had come in force. He hadn’t laid many traps. Too
time-consuming, and it only took one trap going off to make an attacker expect
more, and slow their advancement to a crawl anyway. There were other means,
however. A flick of his wand transfigured some of the debris into man-sized
stone statues. A stabbing gesture later, half a dozen stone guardians ambled
towards the back of the manor. At the next intersection, he repeated his
actions, but sent the animated statues to the front. That should buy him more
time.
longer if they truly had come in force. He hadn’t laid many traps. Too
time-consuming, and it only took one trap going off to make an attacker expect
more, and slow their advancement to a crawl anyway. There were other means,
however. A flick of his wand transfigured some of the debris into man-sized
stone statues. A stabbing gesture later, half a dozen stone guardians ambled
towards the back of the manor. At the next intersection, he repeated his
actions, but sent the animated statues to the front. That should buy him more
time.
He opened the door to the cellar, and went down the stairs, his wand swishing
back and forth as he conjured rocks and transfigured them into various
animals, including a few swarms of bees and hornets. A few Colour Charms cast
on them would make them appear more dangerous than they actually were, and
make the attackers even more cautious.
back and forth as he conjured rocks and transfigured them into various
animals, including a few swarms of bees and hornets. A few Colour Charms cast
on them would make them appear more dangerous than they actually were, and
make the attackers even more cautious.
He smiled as he reached the door to the cellar — proper planning and cunning
beat numbers and power, as usual. Inside the cellar, he locked the door with a
charm, then strode straight to the back. A touch of his wand opened the escape
tunnel Williamson — or rather, one of his ancestors — had built there. It
looked pristine, and he could feel a small draft of fresh air. He cast a
Bubble-Head Charm anyway, just in case.
beat numbers and power, as usual. Inside the cellar, he locked the door with a
charm, then strode straight to the back. A touch of his wand opened the escape
tunnel Williamson — or rather, one of his ancestors — had built there. It
looked pristine, and he could feel a small draft of fresh air. He cast a
Bubble-Head Charm anyway, just in case.
Augustus was smiling when he closed the entrance behind him. Everything was
going according to plan.
going according to plan.
Until the tunnel collapsed and buried him under tons of earth.
---
There was something to be said for quick thinking and quick reflexes as well,
he admitted to himself minutes later. His shield had protected him just long
enough to conjure a metal table above him and make it unbreakable. It had held
against the massed earth trying to crush him — long enough to transfigure the
earth and, more importantly, the ground beneath him into stone. That prevented
the legs of the table from sinking into the earth and formed a protective hole
made of stone for him to work in.
he admitted to himself minutes later. His shield had protected him just long
enough to conjure a metal table above him and make it unbreakable. It had held
against the massed earth trying to crush him — long enough to transfigure the
earth and, more importantly, the ground beneath him into stone. That prevented
the legs of the table from sinking into the earth and formed a protective hole
made of stone for him to work in.
He was still buried alive — and this time against his will, and far deeper
than six feet. But he was alive, and had his wand, and enough free room to use
it. And since there hadn’t been a follow-up attack, this hadn’t been an ambush
by the attackers.
than six feet. But he was alive, and had his wand, and enough free room to use
it. And since there hadn’t been a follow-up attack, this hadn’t been an ambush
by the attackers.
But time was running out — this cave-in would be noticeable above ground, and
the attackers would quickly realise what had happened. By that time, he needed
to be gone from this spot. And from the closest path to the wardline.
the attackers would quickly realise what had happened. By that time, he needed
to be gone from this spot. And from the closest path to the wardline.
He started to vanish the earth below him, conjuring metal plates and supports,
while he dug an escape tunnel from the escape tunnel as quickly as he could.
while he dug an escape tunnel from the escape tunnel as quickly as he could.
He would have laughed at the irony, if he hadn’t been so angry at the fact
that he had almost been killed by a dead man’s trap.
that he had almost been killed by a dead man’s trap.
---
**Hogwarts, March 20th, 1997**
“That wasn’t the plan. The plan was for you to cross the edge of the wards,
cast your spell, and then be gone. You cast the spell, so now it’s time to get
gone.”
cast your spell, and then be gone. You cast the spell, so now it’s time to get
gone.”
Harry Potter tensed up while Sirius faced down the houngan. Ron had moved to
his left, Hermione to his right, and Vivienne and Remus were with Sirius. In a
fight, Reid would be in a crossfire that not even Moody would be able to deal
with — they had tested that once.
his left, Hermione to his right, and Vivienne and Remus were with Sirius. In a
fight, Reid would be in a crossfire that not even Moody would be able to deal
with — they had tested that once.
Reid didn’t seem to be impressed, even though he was alone and facing the
‘Vanquishers of Voldemort’, as an article in the Prophet had dubbed Harry and
his friends. He really hoped that Reid simply was a very good actor, and not
actually that confident.
‘Vanquishers of Voldemort’, as an article in the Prophet had dubbed Harry and
his friends. He really hoped that Reid simply was a very good actor, and not
actually that confident.
The houngan shook his head. In the pale light of the moon — it was close
enough to the full moon for Remus to feel it — it looked almost like a skull.
“I did cast the spell, but part of the castle interfered. I will have to be
inside the actual castle walls for the spell to work properly.”
enough to the full moon for Remus to feel it — it looked almost like a skull.
“I did cast the spell, but part of the castle interfered. I will have to be
inside the actual castle walls for the spell to work properly.”
Sirius muttered something too low for Harry to hear, then cocked his head
without letting the houngan out of his sight. “Hermione?”
without letting the houngan out of his sight. “Hermione?”
Harry quickly glanced at Hermione. The witch was biting her lower lip.
“Hogwarts is so old, and has so many enchantments, it’s probable that they’d
interfere with a detection spell.”
“Hogwarts is so old, and has so many enchantments, it’s probable that they’d
interfere with a detection spell.”
Reid smiled, his face looking even more like a skull’s. “I assure you, I have
no ill intentions. Besides, I doubt that a school as old and renowned as
Hogwarts could be threatened by a single wizard.”
no ill intentions. Besides, I doubt that a school as old and renowned as
Hogwarts could be threatened by a single wizard.”
“Voldemort was a threat,” Harry said. “One we dealt with, of course.”
Sadly, Reid didn’t react to the threat. The houngan kept smiling. “Our
agreement was to let me search the school for our stolen… relic.”
agreement was to let me search the school for our stolen… relic.”
“‘Relic’,” Harry heard Ron mutter. “Bloody necromancy.”
“You did not tell us that you’d have to enter the actual castle. We didn’t
agree to that.” Sirius said.
agree to that.” Sirius said.
“That was implied by allowing me to pass through the school’s defenses. Are
you breaking our deal? I wouldn’t feel bound to my concessions if that were
the case…” Reid’s smile showed even more teeth. If he was bluffing, Harry
thought, then he would make a fortune playing poker.
you breaking our deal? I wouldn’t feel bound to my concessions if that were
the case…” Reid’s smile showed even more teeth. If he was bluffing, Harry
thought, then he would make a fortune playing poker.
They had defeated Voldemort, Harry told himself. And they had the houngan
covered from multiple angles. It didn’t make him feel any more confident.
covered from multiple angles. It didn’t make him feel any more confident.
Harry heard Sirius sigh after a few seconds, then say: “Very well. Follow me
then.”
then.”
Reid’s smile widened, and he walked after Sirius, apparently not at all
concerned with the five people trailing behind, wands ready to curse him in
the back.
concerned with the five people trailing behind, wands ready to curse him in
the back.
---
They reached the closest side entrance to Hogwarts in a few minutes. It was
late at night, so the students would be in their dorms, and the patrolling
prefects rarely covered this part of the school. Sirius opened the door with a
quick wave of his wand and the group entered.
late at night, so the students would be in their dorms, and the patrolling
prefects rarely covered this part of the school. Sirius opened the door with a
quick wave of his wand and the group entered.
“We’re here. Now cast the spell and get it over with!” Sirius growled.
“Of course,” Reid said, his tone full of condescension.
Harry took a step back when Reid started to wave his wand around and mutter
the incantation. He was certain that he wasn’t the only one who wanted to
curse the suspected murderer.
the incantation. He was certain that he wasn’t the only one who wanted to
curse the suspected murderer.
“Stop!” Hermione suddenly yelled, her wand raised to point at Reid. “You were
altering the spell!”
altering the spell!”
“Merely an adaptation to indoor areas.” Reid seemed unfazed despite half a
dozen wands being trained on him.
dozen wands being trained on him.
“That makes no sense!” the witch protested.
“Of course it does not — to you. You are ignorant of houngan traditions,” Reid
said.
said.
Harry tensed — his friend was sensitive to having her understanding of magic
disparaged.
disparaged.
“I understand enough to notice a sacrifice,” Hermione spat.
Harry saw Reid’s eyes widen for a moment. “I see. I might have underestimated
you. Slightly.”
you. Slightly.”
“A sacrifice?” Ron asked.
“An animal,” the houngan said, pulling a squirming but strangely silent rat
out of his pocket. “Surely not even British wizards are so squeamish as to
object to sacrificing a rat for a good cause. We all know how many animal
parts are used in common potions, after all.”
out of his pocket. “Surely not even British wizards are so squeamish as to
object to sacrificing a rat for a good cause. We all know how many animal
parts are used in common potions, after all.”
“That makes no sense,” Hermione said. “A rat wouldn’t work for the ritual…”
“And you’ve become an expert in houngan magic based upon the scraps I gave you
so you would not quiver in fear at magic beyond your understanding?” Reid
scoffed. “Do you presume to lecture me?”
so you would not quiver in fear at magic beyond your understanding?” Reid
scoffed. “Do you presume to lecture me?”
Sirius intervened. “Even if it’s a rat, it’s still a sacrifice.”
“We had a pet rat, once,” Ron said.
Harry snorted. That was one rat he’d not mind seeing sacrificed. Then he
blinked. What if…? He turned away, as if listening to something in the hallway
behind him, and stuck his hand into his enchanted pocket, the one containing
the Elder Wand. Switching the wands didn’t take long. When he turned back, his
wand was aimed at the rat.
blinked. What if…? He turned away, as if listening to something in the hallway
behind him, and stuck his hand into his enchanted pocket, the one containing
the Elder Wand. Switching the wands didn’t take long. When he turned back, his
wand was aimed at the rat.
“Finite.”
Before his eyes, the rat turned into a woman, whose screams filled the hallway
when she slipped out of the houngan’s grasp and staggered on the stone floor.
when she slipped out of the houngan’s grasp and staggered on the stone floor.
Harry was already casting, as were his friends, but the woman — a muggle or
muggleborn, he noted, judging by her clothes — was blocking the line of fire
for Sirius and Remus, and Reid was far quicker than expected. Harry’s curse
and a few more splashed against the houngan’s Shield Charm, which had
instantly appeared, and then the houngan’s own curse caught the woman in the
back. She blew up in a cloud of blood and bone and flesh that filled the
entire hallway for a second, blinding everyone. Harry reacted as he had been
trained to, dropping to the ground and rolling away from his position, so he
wasn’t cursed while blinded. A quick Scouring Charm cleaned his face and a
Shield Charm followed.
muggleborn, he noted, judging by her clothes — was blocking the line of fire
for Sirius and Remus, and Reid was far quicker than expected. Harry’s curse
and a few more splashed against the houngan’s Shield Charm, which had
instantly appeared, and then the houngan’s own curse caught the woman in the
back. She blew up in a cloud of blood and bone and flesh that filled the
entire hallway for a second, blinding everyone. Harry reacted as he had been
trained to, dropping to the ground and rolling away from his position, so he
wasn’t cursed while blinded. A quick Scouring Charm cleaned his face and a
Shield Charm followed.
By that time the hallway had cleared, but the group — everyone had spread out
as well, as they had been drilled — was covered in blood and worse, and Reid
had fled through the door. Harry charged after him, but the houngan had sealed
the door with a wall of bones. It took a few seconds to dispel that, but then
a wall of flames blocked their path and line of sight. A few water spells
later, he saw that Reid had used the time to conjure animals and obstacles to
cover his retreat — and gain more distance. He was already too far away to hit
him with a curse. Maybe if Harry used his broom…
as well, as they had been drilled — was covered in blood and worse, and Reid
had fled through the door. Harry charged after him, but the houngan had sealed
the door with a wall of bones. It took a few seconds to dispel that, but then
a wall of flames blocked their path and line of sight. A few water spells
later, he saw that Reid had used the time to conjure animals and obstacles to
cover his retreat — and gain more distance. He was already too far away to hit
him with a curse. Maybe if Harry used his broom…
Shots rang out behind Harry. He glanced over his shoulder while dispelling
another wall of bones — a moving one — and saw Ron was on the ground, firing
an assault rifle, with Hermione about to join him.
another wall of bones — a moving one — and saw Ron was on the ground, firing
an assault rifle, with Hermione about to join him.
“Clear a line of fire for us,” she yelled.
Harry dropped the idea of flying after him. He and the others did what they
could, but he already knew it wouldn’t be enough. Reid was protected by a
shield, and too close to the wardline. A wall sprang up in front of the
fleeing houngan, but was blasted apart right away. Harry was still dispelling
a charging skeleton when the houngan passed through the wards and vanished.
could, but he already knew it wouldn’t be enough. Reid was protected by a
shield, and too close to the wardline. A wall sprang up in front of the
fleeing houngan, but was blasted apart right away. Harry was still dispelling
a charging skeleton when the houngan passed through the wards and vanished.
Chapter 54: Expediency
======================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 54: Expediency**
‘*As already explained, the main goals of the ICW’s inspection were to
discover just how powerful Britain was without Dumbledore and how much of a
factor the British muggleborns would play in national and international
politics. Both questions were answered by the events which occurred during and
following the Houngan Ritual Crisis, although one can state with certainty
that the manner in which those answers were given was not what any member of
the delegation had intended. Not at all.’*
discover just how powerful Britain was without Dumbledore and how much of a
factor the British muggleborns would play in national and international
politics. Both questions were answered by the events which occurred during and
following the Houngan Ritual Crisis, although one can state with certainty
that the manner in which those answers were given was not what any member of
the delegation had intended. Not at all.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**Hogwarts, March 20th, 1997**
“Reducto!”
Another skeleton exploded into bone fragments. Harry Potter turned and looked
for another target, but there weren’t any left. He saw Ron vanish what looked
like the front half of a stone leopard trying to drag itself towards them with
its paws and Sirius had just finished dispelling the last moving bone wall.
for another target, but there weren’t any left. He saw Ron vanish what looked
like the front half of a stone leopard trying to drag itself towards them with
its paws and Sirius had just finished dispelling the last moving bone wall.
“Moody would rip us a new one, if he had seen this,” Harry’s godfather said,
looking at the rest of the group gathered at the side entrance and sighing.
“We had Reid surrounded and at wand point, and he managed to escape anyway.”
looking at the rest of the group gathered at the side entrance and sighing.
“We had Reid surrounded and at wand point, and he managed to escape anyway.”
“The woman appearing in our midst was a distraction,” Ron started. “And he had
a shield up that blocked our curses, and then…” Harry saw his friend wince
when he trailed off. Ron wasn’t the only one. That hadn’t been a Blasting
Curse, but something far worse.
a shield up that blocked our curses, and then…” Harry saw his friend wince
when he trailed off. Ron wasn’t the only one. That hadn’t been a Blasting
Curse, but something far worse.
“Yes.” Remus gestured at himself and Sirius. “We couldn’t cast at him without
hitting her, until he turned her into a cloud of blood and gore.”
hitting her, until he turned her into a cloud of blood and gore.”
“Terrible,” Vivienne said. The Veela was moving her wand over her body,
vanishing the blood and other things stuck to her skin and robes.
vanishing the blood and other things stuck to her skin and robes.
“It might actually have been a Transfiguration spell,” Hermione said. ‘An
explosion, like from a Blasting Curse, wouldn’t have reduced her whole body
like this, not so evenly.’ She shook her head. “Though there would have to be
a blasting component as well, to spread it out. Unless that’s the result of
the effect that rendered the body down to…” she trailed off and closed her
eyes for a moment, taking deep breaths. “Sorry.”
explosion, like from a Blasting Curse, wouldn’t have reduced her whole body
like this, not so evenly.’ She shook her head. “Though there would have to be
a blasting component as well, to spread it out. Unless that’s the result of
the effect that rendered the body down to…” she trailed off and closed her
eyes for a moment, taking deep breaths. “Sorry.”
Harry saw Ron move towards her to hug her, but he pulled back at the last
moment, staring at his blood-covered arms.
moment, staring at his blood-covered arms.
“Let’s get cleaned up,” Sirius said. “Before…”
A loud, piercing shriek from inside the castle interrupted him. Harry was
through the door in an instant, leading with his wand, Ron hot on his heels.
They found Padma Patil and Anthony Goldstein, the Ravenclaw prefects of their
year, staring — and in Padma’s case, shrieking — at the remains of the woman
Reid had killed.
through the door in an instant, leading with his wand, Ron hot on his heels.
They found Padma Patil and Anthony Goldstein, the Ravenclaw prefects of their
year, staring — and in Padma’s case, shrieking — at the remains of the woman
Reid had killed.
“Ah…” Harry began, catching their attention, but before he could explain,
Anthony started to scream as well and wave his wand around. Harry disarmed
them both. “Calm down! No one’s going to hurt you.”
Anthony started to scream as well and wave his wand around. Harry disarmed
them both. “Calm down! No one’s going to hurt you.”
They didn’t seem to listen, though. The others had spread out to cover the
hallway.
hallway.
“Shut up!” Hermione suddenly shouted at the two students. “Or I’ll silence you
two myself!”
two myself!”
They shut up, but didn’t look any less scared.
“Ravenclaws,” he heard Ron mutter under his breath in the sudden silence. “No
wonder Padma’s not in Gryffindor.”
wonder Padma’s not in Gryffindor.”
“Shh!” Sirius said. “Someone’s coming. A group of them.”
Harry stepped behind one of the suits of armour — covered in blood and gore
like the whole area — and aimed his wand. Ron followed suit on the other side
of the hallway, and Hermione took up a position in the open doorway. Sirius
and Remus stepped forward while Vivienne moved the two students — now
silenced, Harry noted — around the next corner.
like the whole area — and aimed his wand. Ron followed suit on the other side
of the hallway, and Hermione took up a position in the open doorway. Sirius
and Remus stepped forward while Vivienne moved the two students — now
silenced, Harry noted — around the next corner.
“Harry?”
He knew that voice. Ginny.
“Ginny?” Ron asked. “Blimey, she brought half the house!”
He was correct, Harry noted. Behind Ginny, who was marching towards them, came
Neville, Parvati, Lavender and several more Gryffindors. And, he noticed, one
lone Ravenclaw. Luna.
Neville, Parvati, Lavender and several more Gryffindors. And, he noticed, one
lone Ravenclaw. Luna.
“We noticed the fight and came as fast as we…” Ginny trailed off when she
caught sight of them and gasped. “What…”
caught sight of them and gasped. “What…”
“It’s not our blood,” Ron quickly said.
Judging by the expressions on the students’ faces, that didn’t reassure them.
But at least no one screamed. And one or two dozen Cleaning Charms took care
of that problem.
But at least no one screamed. And one or two dozen Cleaning Charms took care
of that problem.
It would take a lot more than a few spells to take care of the teachers who
had arrived by then, though.
had arrived by then, though.
---
“I bet McGonagall would be happier if this had been a tasteless prank,” Ron
said, looking over his shoulder. “And if she could give Sirius and Remus
detention.”
said, looking over his shoulder. “And if she could give Sirius and Remus
detention.”
Harry chuckled. The joke wasn’t really funny, but it was better to laugh than
to cry.
to cry.
Hermione shook her head. “I hope they won’t take too long with her. We have
bigger problems to deal with than this.”
bigger problems to deal with than this.”
“Bigger problems than an angry McGonagall?” Ron gasped theatrically.
She rolled her eyes at him. “We had a fight with an ICW delegate. That’s a
major diplomatic incident. We need to get the truth out before Reid accuses us
of trying to kill him.”
major diplomatic incident. We need to get the truth out before Reid accuses us
of trying to kill him.”
“Well,” Ron said, “we did try to kill him — after he murdered that woman.”
“Tried and failed,” Harry added. That hadn’t been one of their best
performances. “We didn’t look too competent there.”
performances. “We didn’t look too competent there.”
“You ended his spell easily easily enough,” Ron remarked. “That surprised him.
And he fled at once.”
And he fled at once.”
“I couldn’t get through his shield, though,” Harry said. “Not with the spell I
hit him with.” Anyone would have fled in that situation, he thought. Anyone
but Voldemort or Dumbledore.
hit him with.” Anyone would have fled in that situation, he thought. Anyone
but Voldemort or Dumbledore.
“There’s nothing we can do about that right now. We need to focus on providing
evidence of Reid’s crime to the Ministry,” Hermione insisted. “We need to find
out who the woman was, but…”
evidence of Reid’s crime to the Ministry,” Hermione insisted. “We need to find
out who the woman was, but…”
Ron snapped his fingers. “The map! Ginny would have seen her name on the map,
when she noticed the fight. We need her memory for the Pensieve.”
when she noticed the fight. We need her memory for the Pensieve.”
Harry nodded. “Let’s take a detour to the Gryffindor dorms.” And then hurry on
to the Headmaster’s — Headmistress’s, he reminded himself — office. They could
use the Floo connection there to return to Grimmauld Place. And take a bath.
Despite the Cleaning Charms, he needed one to feel clean again.
to the Headmaster’s — Headmistress’s, he reminded himself — office. They could
use the Floo connection there to return to Grimmauld Place. And take a bath.
Despite the Cleaning Charms, he needed one to feel clean again.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 20th, 1997**
“Let me see if I have understood you correctly.” Amelia Bones was hoping —
really hoping — that she had misheard. “You took the Jamaican ICW delegate to
Hogwarts, without informing McGonagall, and then fought him there, causing him
to escape and flee?”
really hoping — that she had misheard. “You took the Jamaican ICW delegate to
Hogwarts, without informing McGonagall, and then fought him there, causing him
to escape and flee?”
Black, sitting in her office and looking as if he didn’t know that he had just
caused the biggest crisis with Jamaica since Dumbledore’s visit in the 1950s,
shrugged. “He was trying to sacrifice a woman. Stopping him seemed to be the
right thing to do.”
caused the biggest crisis with Jamaica since Dumbledore’s visit in the 1950s,
shrugged. “He was trying to sacrifice a woman. Stopping him seemed to be the
right thing to do.”
Amelia controlled her temper, even though she longed to hex the idiot. “You
didn’t stop him, though, did you? The woman died — covering a hallway in
Hogwarts with blood and body parts, and traumatising a dozen students,
according to McGonagall — and Reid escaped.”
didn’t stop him, though, did you? The woman died — covering a hallway in
Hogwarts with blood and body parts, and traumatising a dozen students,
according to McGonagall — and Reid escaped.”
“Well, yes. He used the woman as a shield, first, and then as a weapon.” Black
shook his head. “Not our finest hour, I’ll admit that, but at least he
couldn’t sacrifice her for whatever he was planning.”
shook his head. “Not our finest hour, I’ll admit that, but at least he
couldn’t sacrifice her for whatever he was planning.”
“Ah, yes — the reason you were sneaking into Hogwarts in the first place:
Because you were searching for a stolen houngan artifact. Without informing
the Ministry!” Amelia glared at him.
Because you were searching for a stolen houngan artifact. Without informing
the Ministry!” Amelia glared at him.
Black spread his hands. “He insisted on the utmost secrecy. Spreading their
secrets to the Ministry wouldn’t have gone over well with the houngans.”
secrets to the Ministry wouldn’t have gone over well with the houngans.”
“Trying to kill their envoy will not go over well either,” she countered in
the coldest voice she could manage.
the coldest voice she could manage.
“That’s why we need to get the truth out first: That Reid was murdering
muggles under the cover of a mission for the ICW.” Black showed his teeth and
dropped a few pictures on her desk. “We took them from a Pensieve. Evil
houngan murdering a poor muggle with dark magic, and this in Hogwarts — that
will stop the ICW from complaining too much about this.”
muggles under the cover of a mission for the ICW.” Black showed his teeth and
dropped a few pictures on her desk. “We took them from a Pensieve. Evil
houngan murdering a poor muggle with dark magic, and this in Hogwarts — that
will stop the ICW from complaining too much about this.”
“They would do much more than simply ‘complain’,” Amelia spat out.
“Not now, though. The houngans have few friends in the ICW, and far more
enemies. And even some who supported their demands to join the inspection will
now feel betrayed.”
enemies. And even some who supported their demands to join the inspection will
now feel betrayed.”
“If they believe our claims.”
“They will. Half of them would believe them even if they were not true.” He
shrugged, acting unconcerned. “The fruits of a thoroughly tarnished
reputation.”
shrugged, acting unconcerned. “The fruits of a thoroughly tarnished
reputation.”
He would know about that, Amelia thought — the Blacks had a somewhat similar
reputation in Britain, in certain circles, at least. “Even if the ICW accepts
this, the houngans won’t.” They couldn’t admit to their envoy committing such
crimes — endangering the Statute of Secrecy by sacrificing muggles, even! — on
a mission for the ICW.
reputation in Britain, in certain circles, at least. “Even if the ICW accepts
this, the houngans won’t.” They couldn’t admit to their envoy committing such
crimes — endangering the Statute of Secrecy by sacrificing muggles, even! — on
a mission for the ICW.
Black shrugged again. “I doubt that they’ll start a war over this. Reid
escaped, after all.” He cocked his head to the side. “Unless your Aurors
managed to capture him?”
escaped, after all.” He cocked his head to the side. “Unless your Aurors
managed to capture him?”
Amelia stared at him. “The Jamaican delegation has left their quarters.”
“Lost track of them?”
“It looks like they have already left Britain.” She didn’t snap at him, even
though she hated his flippant tone.
though she hated his flippant tone.
“I wouldn’t bet on that,” Black said with a grin, “and anyone who knows me
could tell you that I like betting. They really want that missing artifact.”
could tell you that I like betting. They really want that missing artifact.”
“They’ll need Reid back in Jamaica to present their own spin on this,” Amelia
said.
said.
“Unless he is expendable. Either he gets their artifact back, or he dies — and
they’ll blame us for ‘silencing the victim’ or whatever they’ll claim.” Black
snorted.
they’ll blame us for ‘silencing the victim’ or whatever they’ll claim.” Black
snorted.
“From what we know, the houngan leaders are not the kind to sacrifice
themselves like that — nor the kind to let their peers sacrifice them,
either.”
themselves like that — nor the kind to let their peers sacrifice them,
either.”
“Of course not. Leaders seldom are.” Black smiled at her, and she ground her
teeth at his accusation. “But who says he’d stay dead?”
teeth at his accusation. “But who says he’d stay dead?”
Amelia felt a cold shiver run down her spine. “Are you serious?” Was Reid able
to return from death, as the Dark Lord had been?
to return from death, as the Dark Lord had been?
“Yes, I am,” Black said. ‘And serious as well. We have to expect the worst
from them.’ He leaned back. “Speaking of — you need to check with the muggles
when ‘Carrie Brown’ went missing. Reid might have kidnapped and sacrificed as
many as a dozen people for his spells. If you find out about the woman he just
murdered, and perhaps any others, then we will know just how long the houngans
have been active in Britain.”
from them.’ He leaned back. “Speaking of — you need to check with the muggles
when ‘Carrie Brown’ went missing. Reid might have kidnapped and sacrificed as
many as a dozen people for his spells. If you find out about the woman he just
murdered, and perhaps any others, then we will know just how long the houngans
have been active in Britain.”
“How did you know her name?” She narrowed her eyes. Even if they had taken
pictures from a Pensieve, how could they have found a muggle that quickly?
pictures from a Pensieve, how could they have found a muggle that quickly?
“Hogwarts has ways to track visitors, if they are expected.”
So, Draco Malfoy hadn’t been lying when he claimed that the Gryffindors could
track the Slytherins. But Dumbledore had lied to her. She waited, but Black
didn’t elaborate on just how visitors could be tracked, and she wouldn’t ask
only to be refused. Taking a deep breath to control her temper, she said:
“Pius will have someone look into that.” She didn’t think that it would amount
to much — the other kidnapped muggles were already dead, and their bodies had
probably been vanished anyway. “Is there anything else?” She glanced at the
clock on her wall; most of the Ministry staff would have left for home long
ago. Not even her secretary had still been around when Black had called.
track the Slytherins. But Dumbledore had lied to her. She waited, but Black
didn’t elaborate on just how visitors could be tracked, and she wouldn’t ask
only to be refused. Taking a deep breath to control her temper, she said:
“Pius will have someone look into that.” She didn’t think that it would amount
to much — the other kidnapped muggles were already dead, and their bodies had
probably been vanished anyway. “Is there anything else?” She glanced at the
clock on her wall; most of the Ministry staff would have left for home long
ago. Not even her secretary had still been around when Black had called.
“Yes. You’ll need to increase security at Hogwarts. Reid might try again, as
long as he thinks we are hiding the artifact there. Can you handle that, or
should I send a few Order members there?”
long as he thinks we are hiding the artifact there. Can you handle that, or
should I send a few Order members there?”
She wanted to hex the smug smile off his face, but she had no choice other
than to accept his offer. She didn’t have to do so gracefully, though. “That
is a good idea.” She matched Black’s smile with her own. “I would not want to
waste Aurors on guard duty when there are houngans and criminals to hunt.
Provided, of course, that your people can manage that much.” Half of the
teachers at Hogwarts were part of Dumbledore’s Order anyway, as far as she
knew.
than to accept his offer. She didn’t have to do so gracefully, though. “That
is a good idea.” She matched Black’s smile with her own. “I would not want to
waste Aurors on guard duty when there are houngans and criminals to hunt.
Provided, of course, that your people can manage that much.” Half of the
teachers at Hogwarts were part of Dumbledore’s Order anyway, as far as she
knew.
Black’s smile slipped for a moment. “Of course they can. Good evening,
Amelia.”
Amelia.”
“Good evening.”
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 21st, 1997**
Sirius Black cocked his head to the side. “Pardon?” Not only had he been
called into Amelia’s office right after a bothersome meeting with some of
Elphias’s less stalwart friends, but she was accusing him of trying to start a
war?
called into Amelia’s office right after a bothersome meeting with some of
Elphias’s less stalwart friends, but she was accusing him of trying to start a
war?
“I said: What do you know about this attack on a houngan in Jamaica?” Amelia
was glaring at him, worse than McGonagall had yesterday evening.
was glaring at him, worse than McGonagall had yesterday evening.
“I have no idea what you are talking about,” he answered honestly.
“Jamaica complained to the ICW that one of their leaders was attacked and
murdered in his home with muggle explosives. Apparently, the culprit escaped.”
She leaned forward and bared her teeth. “What have the Resistance been doing
over there?”
murdered in his home with muggle explosives. Apparently, the culprit escaped.”
She leaned forward and bared her teeth. “What have the Resistance been doing
over there?”
Sirius frowned. “They haven’t left Britain.” Hermione hadn’t mentioned
anything, and Sirius doubted that she’d attack Jamaica on her own — and if she
did, she’d lead the attack herself; she wouldn’t leave that task to others.
And Harry and Ron had met most, if not all, of the veteran Resistance members,
according to their tales from training.
anything, and Sirius doubted that she’d attack Jamaica on her own — and if she
did, she’d lead the attack herself; she wouldn’t leave that task to others.
And Harry and Ron had met most, if not all, of the veteran Resistance members,
according to their tales from training.
“Really? Who else would use muggle bombs to attack manors and murder
houngans?” Amelia scoffed.
houngans?” Amelia scoffed.
“There are a few muggleborn-led enclaves in America. They never got along with
the houngans…” He shrugged. Deflect, without accusing anyone specific. What
worked for pranks worked in politics as well, he had found.
the houngans…” He shrugged. Deflect, without accusing anyone specific. What
worked for pranks worked in politics as well, he had found.
“Do you honestly believe that?”
“It’s possible.” He didn’t doubt that the muggleborns in Europe had been
following the news of the war, and given the volatile situation on the East
Coast of North America, the muggleborns there would likely have done the same.
But would they attack Jamaica? That wasn’t likely. No country in the Americas
would risk a war with Jamaica without a very good, and usually well-known,
reason. But who else would? Would the French go that far to start a war
between Britain and Jamaica? “Although this could be a cover-up for an
internal dispute, and they are using it to attack us.”
following the news of the war, and given the volatile situation on the East
Coast of North America, the muggleborns there would likely have done the same.
But would they attack Jamaica? That wasn’t likely. No country in the Americas
would risk a war with Jamaica without a very good, and usually well-known,
reason. But who else would? Would the French go that far to start a war
between Britain and Jamaica? “Although this could be a cover-up for an
internal dispute, and they are using it to attack us.”
“I don’t believe that.” Amelia’s expression told him that she didn’t believe
the Resistance’s innocence either. “I don’t have to tell you that this
significantly weakens our position with the ICW.”
the Resistance’s innocence either. “I don’t have to tell you that this
significantly weakens our position with the ICW.”
“They need to provide proof of such an accusation,” he said. He didn’t have to
add that the houngans wouldn’t be able to, not unless they let outsiders into
their country. Which wouldn’t happen.
add that the houngans wouldn’t be able to, not unless they let outsiders into
their country. Which wouldn’t happen.
“Britain has enough enemies, or rather, certain factions in Britain do, that
the ICW will not easily dismiss this.”
the ICW will not easily dismiss this.”
“The houngans have even more enemies; especially in the Americas.” Sirius made
a dismissive gesture. He wasn’t as confident as he acted, though — if this
wasn’t just a lie to cover up some internal power struggle, then someone was
framing the Resistance. “I’ll look into the matter, though.”
a dismissive gesture. He wasn’t as confident as he acted, though — if this
wasn’t just a lie to cover up some internal power struggle, then someone was
framing the Resistance. “I’ll look into the matter, though.”
“I expect to be informed of anything you find,” Amelia said.
“Of course.” He stood up and nodded at her.
But after the fact, he added to himself. It was always better to ask for
forgiveness instead of permission. Pranking had taught him that as well.
forgiveness instead of permission. Pranking had taught him that as well.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 21st, 1997**
“We didn’t send anyone to Jamaica!” Hermione Granger stood in Sirius’s living
room, hands on her hips. “In the current situation, with the new recruits to
get up to speed, the rally to keep safe, and possible attacks by Death Eaters
to guard against, attacking the houngans on their home ground would be
foolish.” And she prided herself on not acting like a fool.
room, hands on her hips. “In the current situation, with the new recruits to
get up to speed, the rally to keep safe, and possible attacks by Death Eaters
to guard against, attacking the houngans on their home ground would be
foolish.” And she prided herself on not acting like a fool.
Sirius held up his hands. “I didn’t say you did. I’m just relaying what the
houngans are claiming — that someone using muggle explosives attacked and
killed one of their leaders.”
houngans are claiming — that someone using muggle explosives attacked and
killed one of their leaders.”
“Why would they claim that, anyway?” Ron cut in.
“They could be lying about it, to make it appear as if we attacked both Reid
and this other houngan,” Sirius said. “But I think someone else did attack
them in Jamaica. I doubt they would make up such a story — it makes them
appear weak and vulnerable.”
and this other houngan,” Sirius said. “But I think someone else did attack
them in Jamaica. I doubt they would make up such a story — it makes them
appear weak and vulnerable.”
“But…” Hermione trailed off. Who could, who would do such a thing? “Do you
think they were American?”
think they were American?”
“So far, no one’s claimed responsibility,” Sirius said.
“Why would they?” Ron asked. “That would invite the houngans’ vengeance. Which
is now aimed at us.”
is now aimed at us.”
“They already hated Britain anyway.” Sirius shrugged. “It could be someone
from the Americas, taking revenge for what the houngans did to them in the
past while framing us. But there’s another possibility. It could be a Death
Eater. We haven’t found Rookwood yet. Or Wormtail — but the traitor is too
much of a coward for this.”
from the Americas, taking revenge for what the houngans did to them in the
past while framing us. But there’s another possibility. It could be a Death
Eater. We haven’t found Rookwood yet. Or Wormtail — but the traitor is too
much of a coward for this.”
Hermione blinked. “Rookwood? Do you think he’d risk attacking houngans?” Would
anyone be that bold?
anyone be that bold?
“If he could frame the Resistance for it, yes. That puts more pressure on
Britain, and makes any knowledge he acquired from Voldemort more valuable.”
Sirius leaned back in his seat and crossed his legs.
Britain, and makes any knowledge he acquired from Voldemort more valuable.”
Sirius leaned back in his seat and crossed his legs.
“You think he’s trying to make a deal with the Ministry.” Harry shook his
head. “They wouldn’t stoop that low.”
head. “They wouldn’t stoop that low.”
“Amelia wouldn’t. But there are a lot of victims of the Withering Curse. Their
families expect the Ministry to find a cure,” Sirius said.
families expect the Ministry to find a cure,” Sirius said.
“Yes. Dad’s under a lot of pressure, even though the Ministry hasn’t really
given him enough help to do anything,” Ron said. “He says it’s a ploy from
Bones to make him look bad.”
given him enough help to do anything,” Ron said. “He says it’s a ploy from
Bones to make him look bad.”
“He’s right.” Sirius nodded at Ron.
“Even if the Ministry were willing to make a deal with him, would he actually
head to Jamaica? That’s far more dangerous than trying to hide in Europe.”
Like Pettigrew, Hermione thought, who was probably spending the rest of his
life as a rat, if his past actions were any indication.
head to Jamaica? That’s far more dangerous than trying to hide in Europe.”
Like Pettigrew, Hermione thought, who was probably spending the rest of his
life as a rat, if his past actions were any indication.
“He’s desperate,” Sirius replied. “And he’s about the only one among the
remaining Death Eaters who has the skill and talent to pull this off. And
unlike Wormtail, he probably would rather take such risks than settle for a
life as a fugitive.”
remaining Death Eaters who has the skill and talent to pull this off. And
unlike Wormtail, he probably would rather take such risks than settle for a
life as a fugitive.”
Sirius had lived that life for over two years, Hermione reminded herself. And
before that, he had spent over ten years in Azkaban. Like Rookwood. The
animagus would know what he was talking about. “Did you, ah… talk to him?”
before that, he had spent over ten years in Azkaban. Like Rookwood. The
animagus would know what he was talking about. “Did you, ah… talk to him?”
“There wasn’t an opportunity to talk, *there*,” Sirius said. “Not really. But
I heard things.”
I heard things.”
His expression made Hermione regret asking. But they needed to know as much as
possible to deal with this.
possible to deal with this.
“But traveling to Jamaica, and attacking houngans there… if he has the cure
for the Withering Curse, he wouldn’t need to take that many risks. He could
simply wait.” Ron voiced some of the same doubts Hermione had.
for the Withering Curse, he wouldn’t need to take that many risks. He could
simply wait.” Ron voiced some of the same doubts Hermione had.
“If he has the cure,” Sirius said. “I think he would have let the public know,
to put pressure on the Ministry, if he actually had a cure.”
to put pressure on the Ministry, if he actually had a cure.”
“Could he be trying to get the cure in Jamaica?” Hermione bit her lower lip.
It was a little far-fetched, but… “Starting a war between Jamaica and Britain
wouldn’t do that much. There are no friendly staging areas for the houngans in
Europe. And Britain’s not in any shape to launch another invasion.” The past
wars had always been attacks by Britain against Jamaica, usually from friendly
islands, like the Bermudas.
It was a little far-fetched, but… “Starting a war between Jamaica and Britain
wouldn’t do that much. There are no friendly staging areas for the houngans in
Europe. And Britain’s not in any shape to launch another invasion.” The past
wars had always been attacks by Britain against Jamaica, usually from friendly
islands, like the Bermudas.
“It is just a possibility,” Sirius said. “But something we should be looking
into.”
into.”
“And how would we do that? Ask the houngans to send us their evidence? While
we’re hunting Reid?” Harry scoffed.
we’re hunting Reid?” Harry scoffed.
“If it is Rookwood, then he likely has the skull, and the houngans could find
him using their ritual,” Hermione said. “We could tell them, but they’d
sacrifice people to find him.” She saw Harry and Ron wince at hearing that.
him using their ritual,” Hermione said. “We could tell them, but they’d
sacrifice people to find him.” She saw Harry and Ron wince at hearing that.
“They will be sacrificing people anyway, if it comes to a war,” Sirius pointed
out. He looked grim, but not quite as appalled as the others. “And it would
mean the Resistance would not get the blame any more.”
out. He looked grim, but not quite as appalled as the others. “And it would
mean the Resistance would not get the blame any more.”
Hermione wasn’t quite willing to sacrifice — even indirectly — innocents for
that. Certainly not when war, and with it their deaths, was not yet certain.
She shook her head. “That goes too far. We’re not at war with Jamaica, and
might avoid it altogether, and even if Reid hasn’t already left Britain, he
won’t manage to enter Hogwarts again, so further sacrifices would be useless.
And on the other hand, if we do spread this news, then others could accuse us
of working with the houngans.” The Old Families would love that.
that. Certainly not when war, and with it their deaths, was not yet certain.
She shook her head. “That goes too far. We’re not at war with Jamaica, and
might avoid it altogether, and even if Reid hasn’t already left Britain, he
won’t manage to enter Hogwarts again, so further sacrifices would be useless.
And on the other hand, if we do spread this news, then others could accuse us
of working with the houngans.” The Old Families would love that.
“Amelia would do that. She was very angry about us keeping the visit to
Hogwarts a secret.” Sirius suddenly chuckled, though without much humour. “The
ironic twist to all of this is that unless we catch Reid and interrogate him,
we might actually have to go to Jamaica to get the cure.”
Hogwarts a secret.” Sirius suddenly chuckled, though without much humour. “The
ironic twist to all of this is that unless we catch Reid and interrogate him,
we might actually have to go to Jamaica to get the cure.”
“If he’s even still in Britain.” Ron looked grim.
Harry snorted. “Since he escaped so easily from us, he might think he is safe
even if we find him.”
even if we find him.”
Hermione winced. That hadn’t been their finest hour, to say the least. She had
spent a lot of time going over all the mistakes they had made. That she had
made. She didn’t like to, but the Major had taught her that a good officer
needed to be honest in their appraisal of a failed mission in order to learn
from their mistakes. Sighing, she said: “We will do better next time. It was a
rather unusual situation.”
spent a lot of time going over all the mistakes they had made. That she had
made. She didn’t like to, but the Major had taught her that a good officer
needed to be honest in their appraisal of a failed mission in order to learn
from their mistakes. Sighing, she said: “We will do better next time. It was a
rather unusual situation.”
“We were six versus one, and failed to get him. That’s as bad as it gets,”
Harry retorted.
Harry retorted.
“We made many mistakes, yes,” Hermione admitted, forcing her annoyance down.
“We didn’t expect him to do anything like that, not after he provided us with
the information about his spell and since we were certain that the skull
wasn’t in Hogwarts. We should have had more people there too, ready to stop
him.” They had been set up to defend the school, not to prevent him from
fleeing.
“We didn’t expect him to do anything like that, not after he provided us with
the information about his spell and since we were certain that the skull
wasn’t in Hogwarts. We should have had more people there too, ready to stop
him.” They had been set up to defend the school, not to prevent him from
fleeing.
“We didn’t want to tell too many people about it,” Sirius said. “And with good
reason. Dealing with houngans is not a thing done lightly. Or openly.”
reason. Dealing with houngans is not a thing done lightly. Or openly.”
Harry snorted. “And yet, now everyone knows we did.”
“Everyone knows that an official ICW delegate tried to sacrifice a woman in
Hogwarts, and we stopped him,” Sirius said.
Hogwarts, and we stopped him,” Sirius said.
“We didn’t stop him from murdering her.” Harry apparently wasn’t seeing any
silver lining. “We weren’t prepared enough.”
silver lining. “We weren’t prepared enough.”
“What could we have done?” Ron asked, his tone already indicating that he
didn’t think there had been anything they could have done. “When he turned the
woman into a cloud of blood and gore, we couldn’t see a thing and had to
quickly scatter so he wouldn’t be able to attack us while we were blind. And
since he didn’t stay and fight, but ran, he had a head start. Enough to delay
us further, so he was out of effective wand range when we got through the
door.”
didn’t think there had been anything they could have done. “When he turned the
woman into a cloud of blood and gore, we couldn’t see a thing and had to
quickly scatter so he wouldn’t be able to attack us while we were blind. And
since he didn’t stay and fight, but ran, he had a head start. Enough to delay
us further, so he was out of effective wand range when we got through the
door.”
“We could have used our brooms; he wasn’t that far away,” Harry said.
“We could have,” Sirius said. “But that would have put us in range of his
spells as well. He probably would have hit one of us before we took him down.”
spells as well. He probably would have hit one of us before we took him down.”
“Rifles were the safer option,” Ron added. “But his Shield Charm shrugged off
our bullets anyway, so ‘snipers’ wouldn’t have done any good.”
our bullets anyway, so ‘snipers’ wouldn’t have done any good.”
“And if we had had snipers ready then we would have needed to use
communication mirrors to inform them so they would have known to fire at him
once he ran out of the castle,” she pointed out, “since radios don’t work
inside Hogwarts.” That would have cost some more time. They wouldn’t have
gotten through his shield even with two snipers, or so she thought, unless
they had managed to hit him with every shot, and that was unlikely — hitting a
running man was not that easy, even for the experienced shooters of the
Resistance. Although maybe a machine gun or two would have done the job…
communication mirrors to inform them so they would have known to fire at him
once he ran out of the castle,” she pointed out, “since radios don’t work
inside Hogwarts.” That would have cost some more time. They wouldn’t have
gotten through his shield even with two snipers, or so she thought, unless
they had managed to hit him with every shot, and that was unlikely — hitting a
running man was not that easy, even for the experienced shooters of the
Resistance. Although maybe a machine gun or two would have done the job…
“In other words, our main mistake was trusting a houngan to act like a
civilised wizard,” Sirius said. “But if we had treated him like the scum he
is, he’d have used that against us.”
civilised wizard,” Sirius said. “But if we had treated him like the scum he
is, he’d have used that against us.”
“Well, we don’t have to play nice any more,” Ron said. “Next time, we can do
better.”
better.”
“We can hardly do worse,” Harry said.
“It’s not that bad.” Sirius frowned at Harry. “While we didn’t look our best,
I think you surprised and maybe even scared him when you dispelled his
transfiguration.”
I think you surprised and maybe even scared him when you dispelled his
transfiguration.”
“I also used my other wand for that, which he saw.” Harry looked down. He was
really taking this hard, Hermione thought.
really taking this hard, Hermione thought.
“I doubt he knows what the Elder Wand looks like. At worst, he knows you’re
using Dumbledore’s wand.” At least Sirius didn’t sound that concerned. “So,
next time we meet him, we’ll deal with him.”
using Dumbledore’s wand.” At least Sirius didn’t sound that concerned. “So,
next time we meet him, we’ll deal with him.”
Hermione nodded with the others, but she knew that even if they found Reid,
catching him alive would be difficult. And, as she had told Sirius, they
couldn’t afford to send anyone to Jamaica, not with all the problems they had
to deal with in Britain.
catching him alive would be difficult. And, as she had told Sirius, they
couldn’t afford to send anyone to Jamaica, not with all the problems they had
to deal with in Britain.
And yet she couldn’t help thinking that sooner or later, they might have to
anyway.
anyway.
---
**Hogsmeade, March 21st, 1997**
Hermione Granger slowly turned around as she studied her surroundings. She was
standing in a wide open field, close to Hogsmeade. Good lanes of fire, little
cover for attackers, and enough space to put up a hall large enough for the
expected crowd. “It’ll do,” she said.
standing in a wide open field, close to Hogsmeade. Good lanes of fire, little
cover for attackers, and enough space to put up a hall large enough for the
expected crowd. “It’ll do,” she said.
“Are you certain?” Seamus asked. “An open air area would look more impressive
to the purebloods. Pictures from inside won’t be enough.”
to the purebloods. Pictures from inside won’t be enough.”
“It would also be far more vulnerable to someone dropping vials of explosive
fluid from a broom,” Justin said, shaking his head.
fluid from a broom,” Justin said, shaking his head.
“Which has happened before,” Hermione added. “And the point of the rally is to
reach the muggleborns, to keep them from starting a riot, or worse. We could
use transparent walls and roofs with the Unbreakable Charm, but that charm’s
not truly unbreakable, and then any attacker could also see exactly where we
were inside it.”
reach the muggleborns, to keep them from starting a riot, or worse. We could
use transparent walls and roofs with the Unbreakable Charm, but that charm’s
not truly unbreakable, and then any attacker could also see exactly where we
were inside it.”
“I know, I know.” Seamus sighed, and Hermione knew without having to look that
he was rolling his eyes. They had gone over this before.
he was rolling his eyes. They had gone over this before.
She refrained from telling him that they were already winning, and didn’t need
masses of muggleborns marching through Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade. They just
needed to keep a lid on the violence until a few more members of the
Wizengamot caved and joined Sirius. “Alright,” she said, “This is a decent
place. We can set up here tomorrow, and throw enough wards on the hall so it
can withstand an attack long enough to deal with the attackers.”
masses of muggleborns marching through Diagon Alley or Hogsmeade. They just
needed to keep a lid on the violence until a few more members of the
Wizengamot caved and joined Sirius. “Alright,” she said, “This is a decent
place. We can set up here tomorrow, and throw enough wards on the hall so it
can withstand an attack long enough to deal with the attackers.”
“And we have good sniping positions in range,” Tania added over the radio. The
witch was flying above them, disillusioned.
witch was flying above them, disillusioned.
“We’re also close to Aberforth’s inn.” Justin nodded towards the Hog’s Head
Inn. “He’ll provide both another pair of eyes, and a nearby Floo connection.”
Inn. “He’ll provide both another pair of eyes, and a nearby Floo connection.”
“Alright,” Hermione said. “Let’s place a few cameras, and then check another
spot or two.” That way, an attacker observing them wouldn’t know where they’d
set up and might be spotted if they scouted the field after they left.
spot or two.” That way, an attacker observing them wouldn’t know where they’d
set up and might be spotted if they scouted the field after they left.
---
They were studying the second alternate spot, a field too close to the forest,
when they heard the explosion. Hermione and the others were on the ground,
with their wands out and protected by Shield Charms, before the smoke rose
over the roofs of the village.
when they heard the explosion. Hermione and the others were on the ground,
with their wands out and protected by Shield Charms, before the smoke rose
over the roofs of the village.
“Someone blew up a shop in Hogsmeade,” Tania informed them over the radio.
“I’m going in.”
“I’m going in.”
“Be careful,” Hermione said, pushing the button of her radio. “Everyone else,
move to the edge of the village!”
move to the edge of the village!”
They made their way over the field, covering each other with their rifles and
moving one after the other, until they reached the first houses.
moving one after the other, until they reached the first houses.
“One house is damaged, forefront caved in, small crater in the street. Looks
like a Blasting Curse — or explosives,” Tania said. “The Auror patrol just
arrived… there’s a crashed broom nearby. Lots of wounded, too.”
like a Blasting Curse — or explosives,” Tania said. “The Auror patrol just
arrived… there’s a crashed broom nearby. Lots of wounded, too.”
Hermione stood up behind the low wall she had been using as cover. “Seamus,
take to the roofs! Justin, with me!” She started to walk towards the still
rising smoke. “Which building was hit?” She asked over the radio.
take to the roofs! Justin, with me!” She started to walk towards the still
rising smoke. “Which building was hit?” She asked over the radio.
“Looks like… ‘Flint’s Fine Finery’,” Hermione heard Tania report.
A pureblood tailor? She clenched her teeth. If this had been an attack by
muggleborns… “We really need to get Nott as soon as possible,” she muttered
under her breath as she spotted the first Auror trying to hold back villagers
from rushing to the burning house.
muggleborns… “We really need to get Nott as soon as possible,” she muttered
under her breath as she spotted the first Auror trying to hold back villagers
from rushing to the burning house.
The villagers fell back as soon as they spotted the Resistance, Hermione noted
— many of them glaring at them, or disappearing into their houses. It wasn’t
that much of a surprise — Hogsmeade, as the only pure wizarding settlement in
Britain, was an almost entirely pureblood village. And one which had been
attacked by muggleborns during the war.
— many of them glaring at them, or disappearing into their houses. It wasn’t
that much of a surprise — Hogsmeade, as the only pure wizarding settlement in
Britain, was an almost entirely pureblood village. And one which had been
attacked by muggleborns during the war.
She ignored their reaction, as she ignored the Aurors’ half-hearted attempt to
stop her, and pushed through to the downed broom rider, Justin following in
her wake. “What happened?” she asked as soon as she was close to the Aurors
there.
stop her, and pushed through to the downed broom rider, Justin following in
her wake. “What happened?” she asked as soon as she was close to the Aurors
there.
They stiffened, and looked around.
“The rest of us are securing the village,” Hermione said. Just in case they
wanted to start trouble.
wanted to start trouble.
“Someone blew up the tailor’s,” the Aurors’ apparent leader, a wizard barely
older than Hermione, said. “A witness saw the broom fall from the sky right
after the explosion.”
older than Hermione, said. “A witness saw the broom fall from the sky right
after the explosion.”
The wizard on the ground was unconscious, and wearing singed robes. He could
have been simply flying above the house just as the explosion happened, of
course. But Hermione doubted that.
have been simply flying above the house just as the explosion happened, of
course. But Hermione doubted that.
One of the Aurors treating the man’s wounds pulled something out of the man’s
pockets and Hermione gasped — it was several sticks of dynamite bundled
together.
pockets and Hermione gasped — it was several sticks of dynamite bundled
together.
Muggle explosives. Just what she had feared.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 21st, 1997**
“… the DMLE has declined to comment, citing an ongoing investigation.”
Someone had actually done it, Bess Cox thought after hearing the report on the
wireless in Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips. They had blown up Flint’s shop in
Hogsmeade. The report hadn’t named any dead, but if the shop was destroyed,
then odds were that the bigot had been killed. Someone had completed the
mission that had cost Felix, Ricky and Mark their lives.
wireless in Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips. They had blown up Flint’s shop in
Hogsmeade. The report hadn’t named any dead, but if the shop was destroyed,
then odds were that the bigot had been killed. Someone had completed the
mission that had cost Felix, Ricky and Mark their lives.
She clenched her teeth as memories of that night filled her mind. The flight
at night, carrying the bombs, almost getting lost near Hogwarts. Trying to
find their targets from the air, among the many roofs. Ricky yelling to just
drop the bombs, before the Aurors saw them. Mark going lower, then dropping
his. Hearing the screams from below, seeing the spells flashing in the air.
Dropping her own fire bombs, seeing Felix crash, the winged monsters suddenly
appearing in their midst, slashing at them…
at night, carrying the bombs, almost getting lost near Hogwarts. Trying to
find their targets from the air, among the many roofs. Ricky yelling to just
drop the bombs, before the Aurors saw them. Mark going lower, then dropping
his. Hearing the screams from below, seeing the spells flashing in the air.
Dropping her own fire bombs, seeing Felix crash, the winged monsters suddenly
appearing in their midst, slashing at them…
“Hey? Hey? Bess?”
Randall’s voice and his hand on her arm broke the spell. She shuddered and
shook her head, closing her eyes and taking deep breaths. She wasn’t in
Hogsmeade, wasn’t fleeing for her life, didn’t hear her friends dying…
shook her head, closing her eyes and taking deep breaths. She wasn’t in
Hogsmeade, wasn’t fleeing for her life, didn’t hear her friends dying…
“Sorry,” she said, “I just remembered…” She trailed off, then glanced at him.
He knew what she had done in the war.
He knew what she had done in the war.
Randall looked around and lowered his voice. “Do you want to talk about it?”
She didn’t want to. Not now, not ever. Remembering was already too painful.
Ricky had been killed quickly while facing the Veela, but she and Mark had
evaded the first attack, only to find themselves caught between the harpies
and purebloods on brooms. They had turned to flee, but Mark’s broom had been a
Keeper’s model, very agile, but not as fast as her own broom. Not nearly fast
enough to escape their pursuers. He had yelled at her to flee, then had veered
off, to delay the enemies after them.
Ricky had been killed quickly while facing the Veela, but she and Mark had
evaded the first attack, only to find themselves caught between the harpies
and purebloods on brooms. They had turned to flee, but Mark’s broom had been a
Keeper’s model, very agile, but not as fast as her own broom. Not nearly fast
enough to escape their pursuers. He had yelled at her to flee, then had veered
off, to delay the enemies after them.
Bess shook her head. “No, sorry.”
He didn’t push, simply nodded, took a sip from his beer and waited for her to
recover her composure.
recover her composure.
After a while, she sighed and pushed the uneaten remains of her dinner away.
“I don’t know how to feel about this,” she finally said, nodding towards the
wireless.
“I don’t know how to feel about this,” she finally said, nodding towards the
wireless.
Randall hesitated a moment, then said: “I think it was a mistake.”
“What? Why?” she blurted out before she could stop herself.
“Bombing a shop in broad daylight?” He shook his head. “Too much collateral
damage. Exactly what the Resistance has told people not to do.”
damage. Exactly what the Resistance has told people not to do.”
“Granger just wants to suck up to her ‘peers’ in the Wizengamot,” Bess spat
out.
out.
“She’s right about the purebloods, though. We need to divide them, so they
don’t unite against us. That won’t work if they fear we will go after all of
them.”
don’t unite against us. That won’t work if they fear we will go after all of
them.”
Bess remembered the sneer on Flint’s face when he had told her friends to get
out of his shop. The damn bigot deserved this, and his friends as well.
out of his shop. The damn bigot deserved this, and his friends as well.
Randall sighed. “I don’t like them either, but we can’t simply lash out at
every pureblood. Let’s stick to the list.” He grinned. “I’ve been looking into
the telly troubles, and I’ve found a few addresses to check.”
every pureblood. Let’s stick to the list.” He grinned. “I’ve been looking into
the telly troubles, and I’ve found a few addresses to check.”
Bess slowly nodded. She still disagreed about Hogsmeade — her friends’ deaths
hadn’t been in vain! — but as long as they were hitting back at the pureblood
bigots she’d go along with Randall’s plans.
hadn’t been in vain! — but as long as they were hitting back at the pureblood
bigots she’d go along with Randall’s plans.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 21st, 1997**
“What have you found out?” Amelia Bones asked as soon as Pius entered her
office. She expected results — they had captured the suspect alive, and could
use Veritaserum, after all.
office. She expected results — they had captured the suspect alive, and could
use Veritaserum, after all.
Pius nodded. “Oliver Nye. Pureblood,” he added.
“With muggle explosives?” She frowned. “Was he trying to frame the
Resistance?”
Resistance?”
“That’s our best guess. He was under the Imperius, and has been obliviated. He
remembers being given the explosives a month ago, with the instructions on how
and where to use them. He can’t remember who gave them to him, though.” Pius
looked apologetic, even though such precautions were to be expected. It wasn’t
worth trying to reconstruct the memories, hoping that the culprit had been
both sloppy with the Obliviation and not otherwise disguised his identity. The
Unspeakables with experience in such difficult magic had more important tasks
to perform. Pius went on: ‘He received the signal to strike yesterday.’ Which
meant the owl had already left, and couldn’t be traced any more.
“International owl post, according to the memories we gathered.”
remembers being given the explosives a month ago, with the instructions on how
and where to use them. He can’t remember who gave them to him, though.” Pius
looked apologetic, even though such precautions were to be expected. It wasn’t
worth trying to reconstruct the memories, hoping that the culprit had been
both sloppy with the Obliviation and not otherwise disguised his identity. The
Unspeakables with experience in such difficult magic had more important tasks
to perform. Pius went on: ‘He received the signal to strike yesterday.’ Which
meant the owl had already left, and couldn’t be traced any more.
“International owl post, according to the memories we gathered.”
That didn’t mean that much — France was just a short trip away, after all. But
the planning in advance… Amelia frowned. “He wasn’t a Ministry employee, or
the Imperius would have been broken when he passed through the Thief’s
Downfall.”
the planning in advance… Amelia frowned. “He wasn’t a Ministry employee, or
the Imperius would have been broken when he passed through the Thief’s
Downfall.”
“He worked at a shop in Diagon Alley,” Pius confirmed. ‘And he had been
ordered to avoid the Ministry.’ He paused for a moment, looking grim. “I doubt
that Nye was the only one. His orders included blowing himself up after the
attack. It was pure luck that he misjudged the force of the explosion and was
blown off his broom before he could obey that order.”
ordered to avoid the Ministry.’ He paused for a moment, looking grim. “I doubt
that Nye was the only one. His orders included blowing himself up after the
attack. It was pure luck that he misjudged the force of the explosion and was
blown off his broom before he could obey that order.”
Amelia muttered a curse.
“It looks like whoever set this up wanted to frame the Resistance,” Pius went
on.
on.
“They would have picked a muggleborn for that,” Amelia said. Could this be a
convoluted attempt by the Resistance to frame purebloods?
convoluted attempt by the Resistance to frame purebloods?
“They might not have had the time or opportunity to find a muggleborn. But Nye
was known to be rather… critical of muggleborns.”
was known to be rather… critical of muggleborns.”
“He was a bigot, you mean.” Not a Death Eater, though — or Pius would have
told her.
told her.
“Yes.”
“Our culprit set this up a month ago. They didn’t pick a muggleborn, even
though they were no longer hiding back then.” Amelia shook her head. Either
they had not wanted to kill a muggleborn, which would point towards the
Resistance, or, as Pius had said, they hadn’t had the time or opportunity to
find a muggleborn victim. International owl post. Either a foreigner, or
someone who had fled Britain. “If we knew whether the explosive used was the
same as was used in Jamaica…”
though they were no longer hiding back then.” Amelia shook her head. Either
they had not wanted to kill a muggleborn, which would point towards the
Resistance, or, as Pius had said, they hadn’t had the time or opportunity to
find a muggleborn victim. International owl post. Either a foreigner, or
someone who had fled Britain. “If we knew whether the explosive used was the
same as was used in Jamaica…”
Pius actually snorted. He knew as well as she did that the houngans would
rather fight a war than let anyone investigate on their island. “You think
that the culprit set up these attacks, then left for Jamaica?” He sounded
doubtful.
rather fight a war than let anyone investigate on their island. “You think
that the culprit set up these attacks, then left for Jamaica?” He sounded
doubtful.
She raised her shoulders slightly, not quite a shrug. “It’s a possibility.”
Her gut told her that she was right, but that was not proof. “Inform Black and
Granger of this.”
Her gut told her that she was right, but that was not proof. “Inform Black and
Granger of this.”
Pius’s eyebrows rose slightly before he nodded, and she wondered if she might
have actually surprised him. Given the current troubles, they needed all the
help they could get to keep the peace. Even the help of mass murderers and
their friends.
have actually surprised him. Given the current troubles, they needed all the
help they could get to keep the peace. Even the help of mass murderers and
their friends.
“Is there any news about the search for Reid? The other two delegates have
been making repeated inquiries about the incident.”
been making repeated inquiries about the incident.”
He shook his head. She frowned at him, even though she hadn’t expected
anything else. At least the delegates couldn’t exploit this debacle too much,
not unless they wanted to appear far too sympathetic to a houngan caught in
the act of sacrificing people.
anything else. At least the delegates couldn’t exploit this debacle too much,
not unless they wanted to appear far too sympathetic to a houngan caught in
the act of sacrificing people.
It was a small consolation, but Amelia was grateful for anything that didn’t
make Britain’s situation even worse than it already was.
make Britain’s situation even worse than it already was.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, March 21st, 1997**
“Stop staring out the front, Ronniekins! We’re supposed to not know what’s
coming.”
coming.”
Ron Weasley turned away from the entrance of the twins’ rebuilt shop and
rolled his eyes at George. “We’re also supposed to act natural — and it is
natural to be worried about a possible attack, seeing as this shop was at the
heart of Voldemort’s final battle, and we’re about the most famous blood
traitor family in Britain. And do I have to remind you that there are at least
two groups out there that have attacked muggleborns?” Nott was the less
dangerous one, in his opinion, compared to the group who had tried to frame
the Resistance.
rolled his eyes at George. “We’re also supposed to act natural — and it is
natural to be worried about a possible attack, seeing as this shop was at the
heart of Voldemort’s final battle, and we’re about the most famous blood
traitor family in Britain. And do I have to remind you that there are at least
two groups out there that have attacked muggleborns?” Nott was the less
dangerous one, in his opinion, compared to the group who had tried to frame
the Resistance.
George shrugged. “I trust our wards.”
“I don’t,” Ron spat out. “They used muggle explosives, remember? That means
they could duplicate them until they have enough to blow up all of Diagon
Alley!”
they could duplicate them until they have enough to blow up all of Diagon
Alley!”
“No, they couldn’t!” George was grinning. “We’re too close to muggle London.
An explosion of that size would endanger the Statute of Secrecy, and the
Obliviators’ Seers would foresee it. Dad told us that.”
An explosion of that size would endanger the Statute of Secrecy, and the
Obliviators’ Seers would foresee it. Dad told us that.”
Ron scoffed. “That only works if there’s no possible muggle-worthy excuse. And
muggle London has a number of bombs buried in the ground.” Hermione had told
him that.
muggle London has a number of bombs buried in the ground.” Hermione had told
him that.
“Are they crazy? Why would they do that?” George was frowning at him. “You’re
taking the mickey!”
taking the mickey!”
“I’m not!” Ron protested. “They had a war a while ago, and so many bombs were
dropped on London, a great number of them didn’t explode and were buried. Some
of them still explode from time to time — that’s what the muggles think
happened to Shacklebolt and his team.” Which only proved that even Death
Eaters knew about it.
dropped on London, a great number of them didn’t explode and were buried. Some
of them still explode from time to time — that’s what the muggles think
happened to Shacklebolt and his team.” Which only proved that even Death
Eaters knew about it.
“Bloody hell!” George was shaking his head as if he had trouble believing it.
“Not so confident any more?” Ron asked, smirking slightly.
His brother glared at him. “Just keep an eye out. I’ll think of some counters
to that.”
to that.”
“Good luck,” Ron said, turning his attention back to the Alley. It was almost
time anyway.
time anyway.
A few minutes later, right on time, the street in front of the new Weasleys’
Wizard Wheezes blew up, throwing up cobblestones and dirt in a big cloud of
dust. Ron unshrank his new broom and cast a Human-presence-revealing Charm,
followed by a Disillusionment Charm while rushing to the top floor, where he
jumped out of the window.
Wizard Wheezes blew up, throwing up cobblestones and dirt in a big cloud of
dust. Ron unshrank his new broom and cast a Human-presence-revealing Charm,
followed by a Disillusionment Charm while rushing to the top floor, where he
jumped out of the window.
He fell a story before he caught himself, and then he shot up towards the
marker his spell showed him. Below him, another explosion shook the street. As
planned.
marker his spell showed him. Below him, another explosion shook the street. As
planned.
He drew his wand and urged his broom on. “Finite!” A robed figure on a broom
became visible — the attacker. The figure waved their wand, and a green spell
shot towards him. Ron rolled to the side, letting the spell shoot past, and
gave chase. A few tight turns later, he had the fleeing figure lined up and
cast himself. His spell shattered their shield, and their hood was torn away,
revealing their face when they suddenly veered off sharply.
became visible — the attacker. The figure waved their wand, and a green spell
shot towards him. Ron rolled to the side, letting the spell shoot past, and
gave chase. A few tight turns later, he had the fleeing figure lined up and
cast himself. His spell shattered their shield, and their hood was torn away,
revealing their face when they suddenly veered off sharply.
“Nott!” Ron spat, then sent a Reductor Curse at the fleeing attacker, followed
by a Bludgeoning Curse.
by a Bludgeoning Curse.
His target apparated away, though, before the spells hit, and Ron forced
himself to curse — and not sigh with relief.
himself to curse — and not sigh with relief.
If he had actually hit Tonks…
---
**Worcestershire, Nott Manor, March 21st, 1997**
Ron Weasley appeared inside the ‘listening post’, as the twin’s hidden camp
had been dubbed by the Resistance, a few minutes after his ‘fight’. Hermione
and the rest of the experienced Resistance members were already present, and
he went to hug her.
had been dubbed by the Resistance, a few minutes after his ‘fight’. Hermione
and the rest of the experienced Resistance members were already present, and
he went to hug her.
“Oh, how romantic!”
He released the witch and turned to glare at Tonks, who no longer looked like
Nott. The metamorphmagus was faking a swoon. “I should have hit you with a
spell or two,” he grumbled.
Nott. The metamorphmagus was faking a swoon. “I should have hit you with a
spell or two,” he grumbled.
“You were cutting it a bit close, weren’t you?” She was grinning widely. “You
sold the chase, though.”
sold the chase, though.”
Ron shrugged. That had been more stressful than he had expected, but it had
all gone down as planned.
all gone down as planned.
Fred snorted. “Our products work perfectly fine. We tested them often enough.”
“Your first version tore off more than my hood,” Tonks said with a frown.
Ron’s brother shrugged. “That’s what tests are for.”
Hermione cleared her throat. “Everyone, get ready! We strike in one minute!”
She looked at Justin, who was monitoring the wireless ears they had placed
inside the manor.
She looked at Justin, who was monitoring the wireless ears they had placed
inside the manor.
“No change there — he hasn’t heard about the attack yet,” the former
Hufflepuff said.
Hufflepuff said.
Hermione nodded. “Seamus?”
“Bomb’s ready!” Seamus sounded far too eager to handle so many explosives for
Ron’s taste — but better the Irish wizard risk his life than Ron himself.
Ron’s taste — but better the Irish wizard risk his life than Ron himself.
“Alright. Currently, Nott and his aunt and uncle are in the manor, as well as
two house-elves. You know the plan.” They did, but Hermione repeated it anyway
— not for the first time. “Tania and Seamus are providing air cover — they’ll
shoot down anyone trying to flee. Justin will keep monitoring the ears and
track Nott if possible.”
two house-elves. You know the plan.” They did, but Hermione repeated it anyway
— not for the first time. “Tania and Seamus are providing air cover — they’ll
shoot down anyone trying to flee. Justin will keep monitoring the ears and
track Nott if possible.”
Ron doubted that that would work — the ears were sending transcripts, after
all, and couldn’t cover the entire manor.
all, and couldn’t cover the entire manor.
“Sally-Anne will stay with him, and this will double as our first aid
station,” Hermione continued. “We’ve already filled up the escape tunnel they
prepared, and we’ll cover the entire area with jinxes to keep them from
fleeing before the bomb goes off. Ron, Harry, John, Louise and I will enter
from the back, Sirius and the rest from the front.”
station,” Hermione continued. “We’ve already filled up the escape tunnel they
prepared, and we’ll cover the entire area with jinxes to keep them from
fleeing before the bomb goes off. Ron, Harry, John, Louise and I will enter
from the back, Sirius and the rest from the front.”
His brothers had tried to argue about that, but Harry and Ron were the ones
who had actually trained with the Resistance, and so were the best choice to
work with them closely. Ron still smiled, remembering Fred’s face when he had
pulled out his assault rifle and loaded it.
who had actually trained with the Resistance, and so were the best choice to
work with them closely. Ron still smiled, remembering Fred’s face when he had
pulled out his assault rifle and loaded it.
“Alright. Get into position!”
They split up and moved out. Seamus would drop the bomb at the front of the
house, so Ron’s group could move closer to the wardline in the back than
Sirius’s group. Ron was still rather nervous about the whole thing — he had
seen what a tiny bit of explosives did in training, and Seamus was carrying
far, far more.
house, so Ron’s group could move closer to the wardline in the back than
Sirius’s group. Ron was still rather nervous about the whole thing — he had
seen what a tiny bit of explosives did in training, and Seamus was carrying
far, far more.
Right after finishing his Anti-Apparition Jinxes, he heard Seamus on the
radio. “Dropping in five, four, three, two, one…”
radio. “Dropping in five, four, three, two, one…”
Ron gripped his rifle tightly and pressed himself into the ground, behind a
fallen tree trunk at the edge of the forest. A second later, he heard the
third explosion that day — and by far the loudest. And most powerful. Dirt and
rocks rained down on him, hitting his Shield Charm.
fallen tree trunk at the edge of the forest. A second later, he heard the
third explosion that day — and by far the loudest. And most powerful. Dirt and
rocks rained down on him, hitting his Shield Charm.
“Wards are down,” Bill reported, “and so is the front wall.” He sounded
slightly off — though Ron didn’t know if that was because his brother was
using a muggle radio, or because he had been closer to the explosion.
slightly off — though Ron didn’t know if that was because his brother was
using a muggle radio, or because he had been closer to the explosion.
It didn’t matter anyway — his group was already moving, racing towards the
back of Nott’s manor. He didn’t bother keeping his rifle pointed, much less
aimed at the manor — Seamus and Tania would be covering them from above.
back of Nott’s manor. He didn’t bother keeping his rifle pointed, much less
aimed at the manor — Seamus and Tania would be covering them from above.
Harry was the first to reach the manor, but Ron was right behind him, and the
two crouched down at the porch, wand and rifle aimed at the door there. He
couldn’t see anyone through the windows, and his Human-presence-revealing
spell showed no marker in range either, so Nott wasn’t yet making a break for
it.
two crouched down at the porch, wand and rifle aimed at the door there. He
couldn’t see anyone through the windows, and his Human-presence-revealing
spell showed no marker in range either, so Nott wasn’t yet making a break for
it.
Louise pointed her wand at the door, and blew it open with a spell. ‘Standard
Hit-Wizard Door Knocker’, she had called it when she had shown them at the
camp. It certainly worked well — the entire door was ripped off its hinges.
Hit-Wizard Door Knocker’, she had called it when she had shown them at the
camp. It certainly worked well — the entire door was ripped off its hinges.
John jumped to the corner and stuck his rifle inside. “Clear!”
Louise passed him, leading with her wand. Then it was Ron and Harry’s turn.
Ron stepped inside, crushing parts of the door under his boots, and let his
rifle drop at his side, dangling from its sling, while he covered the room
with his wand. Movement to his right drew his attention — a small figure was
scrambling out from a passage inside the inner wall. A house-elf! He stunned
the creature before it could do more than squeak in fright, then cast a full
Body-Bind Curse for good measure.
Ron stepped inside, crushing parts of the door under his boots, and let his
rifle drop at his side, dangling from its sling, while he covered the room
with his wand. Movement to his right drew his attention — a small figure was
scrambling out from a passage inside the inner wall. A house-elf! He stunned
the creature before it could do more than squeak in fright, then cast a full
Body-Bind Curse for good measure.
Hermione and Harry dashed past him, towards the door to the hallway leading to
Nott’s living room — or salon, as he called it — with John bringing up the
rear. Before they reached the door, though, it exploded towards them, and a
swarm of flying, buzzing metal rushed at them. Animated blades, Ron realised,
his eyes widening.
Nott’s living room — or salon, as he called it — with John bringing up the
rear. Before they reached the door, though, it exploded towards them, and a
swarm of flying, buzzing metal rushed at them. Animated blades, Ron realised,
his eyes widening.
As Moody had drilled him and Harry to, he acted out of reflex, meeting the
cloud of swirling metal with a stone wall, stopping the blades for a few
seconds before they started to cut and smash through it.
cloud of swirling metal with a stone wall, stopping the blades for a few
seconds before they started to cut and smash through it.
Harry started to dispel the things, but that didn’t seem to be working well.
“It’s not one spell!” he yelled, “We have to deal with each individual blade!”
“It’s not one spell!” he yelled, “We have to deal with each individual blade!”
Ron cursed under his breath and conjured a thicker wall, to buy them more
time, followed by Hermione dropping a stone block on the hemmed-in swarm,
crushing a large part of the blades — or at least immobilizing them. A flick
of her wand turned it to mud, and another turned it back to stone — with most
of the flying metal trapped inside it. Ron and Harry finished the ones which
had escaped that fate, but that took some time, and Harry only narrowly evaded
being cut up when four of the blades descended on him at once and Ron could
only get one of them in time.
time, followed by Hermione dropping a stone block on the hemmed-in swarm,
crushing a large part of the blades — or at least immobilizing them. A flick
of her wand turned it to mud, and another turned it back to stone — with most
of the flying metal trapped inside it. Ron and Harry finished the ones which
had escaped that fate, but that took some time, and Harry only narrowly evaded
being cut up when four of the blades descended on him at once and Ron could
only get one of them in time.
“Got one trying to flee with a broom from the upper floor, east side. Wasn’t
Nott.” Seamus reported.
Nott.” Seamus reported.
“Moving there,” Sirius answered.
“We’ll push on to the salon,” Hermione said into the radio. “But the defences
could be tricky. I don’t like the sight of the rug there.”
could be tricky. I don’t like the sight of the rug there.”
Ron agreed, and pointed his wand at it. “Incendio!”
The rug caught fire — and started to thrash around in the hallway like a giant
snake in its death throes. Ron heard Harry mumble something about a chamber,
and winced. Theoretically, they could cast the Flame-Freezing Charm on the
fire, but the rug was moving by itself and Ron didn’t think getting too close
to it would be smart.
snake in its death throes. Ron heard Harry mumble something about a chamber,
and winced. Theoretically, they could cast the Flame-Freezing Charm on the
fire, but the rug was moving by itself and Ron didn’t think getting too close
to it would be smart.
“Let’s go through the wall here!” Louise yelled, “It’ll be faster!” And safer,
Ron thought.
Ron thought.
Hermione nodded. “Make a hole! I’ll seal up the hallway.”
Another stone wall replaced the door while Louise stepped to the side of the
room, twirling her wand. An instant later, a hole two yards across opened in
the wall. Harry threw a grenade inside, and Ron pressed himself against the
wall just before it went off.
room, twirling her wand. An instant later, a hole two yards across opened in
the wall. Harry threw a grenade inside, and Ron pressed himself against the
wall just before it went off.
Right afterwards, he rushed through the hole, diving into a forward roll. He
spotted a figure stumbling around — a hand before their eyes, and sent a
Stunner at it at once. Nott! His spell was stopped by a shield, though.
Harry’s Piercing Curse dealt with the shield, but Nott had recovered from the
blast and blinding, and his own wand was flashing.
spotted a figure stumbling around — a hand before their eyes, and sent a
Stunner at it at once. Nott! His spell was stopped by a shield, though.
Harry’s Piercing Curse dealt with the shield, but Nott had recovered from the
blast and blinding, and his own wand was flashing.
“Avada Kedavra!”
Ron dropped to the floor while the remains of the couch shot up to catch the
spell, and the resulting explosion shook the room. He coughed, blinked once,
then saw Nott stumbling. Ron’s next Stunner hit, and Nott fell.
spell, and the resulting explosion shook the room. He coughed, blinked once,
then saw Nott stumbling. Ron’s next Stunner hit, and Nott fell.
“We’ve got Nott. I repeat, we’ve got Nott.” Hermione said into the radio, then
turned to John and Louise. “Check him for spells and curses!”
turned to John and Louise. “Check him for spells and curses!”
While the two Resistance members waved their wands over Nott’s stunned form,
Harry and Ron took cover at the door, securing the entrance. The hallway was
still burning fiercely. “Mate, that was a bit much,” Harry said, shaking his
head.
Harry and Ron took cover at the door, securing the entrance. The hallway was
still burning fiercely. “Mate, that was a bit much,” Harry said, shaking his
head.
“Can’t be too cautious.” Ron sniffed. He privately agreed with Harry, but he
wasn’t about to admit that — his idea had closed off the hallway to them as
well, holding them up as long or longer than a trap or guard would have
managed.
wasn’t about to admit that — his idea had closed off the hallway to them as
well, holding them up as long or longer than a trap or guard would have
managed.
“We’ve got his uncle cornered in the upper bedroom. That makes the runner his
aunt,” Ron heard Sirius say over the radio.
aunt,” Ron heard Sirius say over the radio.
“Do you need help?” Harry asked.
“No, no. Deal with Nott, we have this,” Sirius said. “Fred, use one of the
special fireworks! Remus, Tonks — cover us! Ready?”
special fireworks! Remus, Tonks — cover us! Ready?”
“He forgot to turn the radio off again,” Harry mumbled. Louder, and into the
radio, he said: “Sirius! Stop pushing the button!”
radio, he said: “Sirius! Stop pushing the button!”
A curse and some laughter later, the channel was silent. Just in time.
“He’s safe,” Louise said, straightening up from where she had crouched next to
Nott.
Nott.
“Alright.” Hermione nodded at the former Hit-Witch and John. “Go secure our
exit route. We’ll handle him.”
exit route. We’ll handle him.”
Louise stared at Hermione for a moment, then nodded and the two Resistance
members left the room through the hole. Hermione turned to Harry and Ron.
members left the room through the hole. Hermione turned to Harry and Ron.
“We talked about it,” Harry said before she could say anything.
“We’re all in this together,” Ron added.
Hermione frowned, then sighed and pulled out a small box. A tap of her wand
had it grow to the size of a small chest, and a flick opened the lid,
revealing a row of open vials. “Wake him up!”
had it grow to the size of a small chest, and a flick opened the lid,
revealing a row of open vials. “Wake him up!”
Ron pointed his wand at Nott. “Rennervate.”
Nott stirred, groaning with his eyes closed first, then they shot open and he
gasped. “What…”
gasped. “What…”
Hermione didn’t give him a chance to yell. “Imperio. Stop!”
Nott shut up. Ron felt a shiver run down his spine. Using an Unforgivable…
They had planned and discussed it, but to actually see it done… He pressed his
lips together. It was the easiest way to handle this. And neither he nor Harry
would let Hermione carry that burden and face that risk by herself.
They had planned and discussed it, but to actually see it done… He pressed his
lips together. It was the easiest way to handle this. And neither he nor Harry
would let Hermione carry that burden and face that risk by herself.
“Give us all your memories about the recent attacks. All of the attacks since
the Dark Lord died in Diagon Alley,” Hermione ordered, and slid the chest over
to Nott.
the Dark Lord died in Diagon Alley,” Hermione ordered, and slid the chest over
to Nott.
While Nott started to pull out silvery strands of memories from his temple and
sent them into the vials, Harry stared at their prisoner. “Legilimency would
have worked as well.”
sent them into the vials, Harry stared at their prisoner. “Legilimency would
have worked as well.”
“But not as quickly. And this way we can copy them and hand them out.” They
had gone over this already.
had gone over this already.
The three stood there for a few minutes, no one saying anything while Nott
filled vial after vial.
filled vial after vial.
Finally, he stopped. Ron saw Hermione take a deep breath, and he glanced at
Harry. They had talked about this, privately. His friend nodded.
Harry. They had talked about this, privately. His friend nodded.
A moment later, both of them emptied their rifles into Nott.
Chapter 55: Cross Purposes
==========================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 55: Cross Purposes**
‘*The attacks in March 1997 were committed by imperiused purebloods — both
those against muggleborns in Diagon Alley and the one against a
pureblood-owned tailor’s in Hogsmeade. No one contested that fact — not the
Ministry nor the Order of the Phoenix or the Muggleborn Resistance. Why, then,
was the so-called ’Imperius defence’ used by pureblood wizards when accused of
being Death Eaters so summarily rejected following the Second Blood War? Most
of the alleged Death Eaters did not even have trials, but, according to the
official reports, were ‘killed in action’ which conveniently made an actual
investigation, including Pensieve evidence, impossible. It is therefore not
surprising that the fairness of the judicial system during that time has been
questioned by every unbiased observer and historian.’*
those against muggleborns in Diagon Alley and the one against a
pureblood-owned tailor’s in Hogsmeade. No one contested that fact — not the
Ministry nor the Order of the Phoenix or the Muggleborn Resistance. Why, then,
was the so-called ’Imperius defence’ used by pureblood wizards when accused of
being Death Eaters so summarily rejected following the Second Blood War? Most
of the alleged Death Eaters did not even have trials, but, according to the
official reports, were ‘killed in action’ which conveniently made an actual
investigation, including Pensieve evidence, impossible. It is therefore not
surprising that the fairness of the judicial system during that time has been
questioned by every unbiased observer and historian.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**Worcestershire, Nott Manor, March 21st, 1997**
As soon as she appeared in front of Nott Manor, Amelia Bones had a flashback
to the Malfoy Manor bombing. The damage wasn’t as extensive, and there was no
fire, but it was another manor of an Old Family, destroyed by muggleborns
using muggle means.
to the Malfoy Manor bombing. The damage wasn’t as extensive, and there was no
fire, but it was another manor of an Old Family, destroyed by muggleborns
using muggle means.
Or, she corrected herself when she spotted Black standing in the rubble that
was all that had been left of the front of the manor, muggleborns and the
Order.
was all that had been left of the front of the manor, muggleborns and the
Order.
“Amelia! There you are!” He was smiling widely, despite — or, knowing him,
because of — the body covered with a blanket laid out near him.
because of — the body covered with a blanket laid out near him.
“Sirius,” she managed to say without cursing. “What happened?”
“You weren’t informed?” He acted surprised. “A masked broom rider attacked
Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes with vials of Exploding Fluid. The owners
protected themselves and drove the attacker off, managing to reveal his face
in the process. It was Theo Nott. The nasty little bugger the Wizengamot
acquitted not so long ago, remember?”
Weasley’s Wizarding Wheezes with vials of Exploding Fluid. The owners
protected themselves and drove the attacker off, managing to reveal his face
in the process. It was Theo Nott. The nasty little bugger the Wizengamot
acquitted not so long ago, remember?”
She didn’t deign to dignify that barb with a response. It wasn’t her place to
tell the Wizengamot how to conduct their business. Instead she focused on
Black’s story. “You saw someone who looked like Nott, and then attacked his
home in response?”
tell the Wizengamot how to conduct their business. Instead she focused on
Black’s story. “You saw someone who looked like Nott, and then attacked his
home in response?”
He shrugged with that nonchalance that so irked her. “In a word, yes.”
“Because someone saw someone who might have been Nott.” She clenched her
teeth.
teeth.
“I checked the memory in a Pensieve myself.”
“And then you and your band of vigilantes went off and attacked Nott’s manor
instead of informing the DMLE.” As so often when talking to him for any length
of time, she wanted to hex the insufferable grin from his face and arrest him.
instead of informing the DMLE.” As so often when talking to him for any length
of time, she wanted to hex the insufferable grin from his face and arrest him.
“We couldn’t take the risk that a spy would warn him. Or that a pair of rookie
Aurors would knock on his door, be told he wasn’t home, and then leave again
while he bolted.” His grin changed, now reminding her of a feral beast. “You
wouldn’t have launched a raid, would you?”
Aurors would knock on his door, be told he wasn’t home, and then leave again
while he bolted.” His grin changed, now reminding her of a feral beast. “You
wouldn’t have launched a raid, would you?”
Amelia couldn’t have. Pius didn’t have enough Aurors and Hit-Wizards available
on such short notice. She hated to admit that, and she loathed Black rubbing
it in even more. “And now, all of the Manor’s inhabitants are dead, including
the main suspect. Without any evidence of his guilt left. Just the word of
those who are known to have tried to kill Nott before.”
on such short notice. She hated to admit that, and she loathed Black rubbing
it in even more. “And now, all of the Manor’s inhabitants are dead, including
the main suspect. Without any evidence of his guilt left. Just the word of
those who are known to have tried to kill Nott before.”
He chuckled. “That, and the robes we saw, the broom we saw, and more Exploding
Fluid just like that used in the attack. Or attacks.”
Fluid just like that used in the attack. Or attacks.”
“You didn’t know that when you attacked,” she spat. “You just wanted an excuse
to kill him!”
to kill him!”
“To capture him, actually. The little bugger managed to get himself killed,
though. We underestimated him.”
though. We underestimated him.”
She didn’t believe him, not even for an instant, and scoffed. “You were
already prepared to assault his manor.” Otherwise, they wouldn’t have been
able to strike that quickly.
already prepared to assault his manor.” Otherwise, they wouldn’t have been
able to strike that quickly.
“Of course. We have plans to attack a variety of locations. Just in case.” He
smiled again.
smiled again.
His story was so thin, a blind wizard would have seen through it. At best, he
had gotten lucky and found the right attacker. At worst, he had used the
opportunity to kill Nott. But Black controlled enough of the Wizengamot now
that arresting him would only lead to her own replacement by a crony of his.
Probably Pius. She glared at him. “Hand the ‘evidence’ over, and stop
disturbing the crime scene.”
had gotten lucky and found the right attacker. At worst, he had used the
opportunity to kill Nott. But Black controlled enough of the Wizengamot now
that arresting him would only lead to her own replacement by a crony of his.
Probably Pius. She glared at him. “Hand the ‘evidence’ over, and stop
disturbing the crime scene.”
“Of course.”
His smug tone irked her even more than the equally smug smile which she longed
to see wiped off his face… She turned away and marched towards the back of the
manor. There she found Pius, standing over a body. Nott.
to see wiped off his face… She turned away and marched towards the back of the
manor. There she found Pius, standing over a body. Nott.
“Firearms?” she asked.
If Pius was annoyed by her lack of courtesy, he didn’t show it. “Yes.
‘Rifles’, I think.” He flicked his wand, turning the body over. “The exit
wounds are too large for ‘pistols’.”
‘Rifles’, I think.” He flicked his wand, turning the body over. “The exit
wounds are too large for ‘pistols’.”
She didn’t flinch at the sight — she had seen far worse from dark curses.
“You’ve become an expert on muggle weapons?”
“You’ve become an expert on muggle weapons?”
“It seemed a good idea to familiarise myself with them, given their use during
the war.” Pius turned the body back to its original position.
the war.” Pius turned the body back to its original position.
“So far their use has been limited to the Resistance,” Amelia pointed out.
“I doubt that that will remain the case,” Pius said. “Even if the muggleborns
don’t follow the example the Resistance has set, others might try to frame
them.”
don’t follow the example the Resistance has set, others might try to frame
them.”
“Like Nott might have been framed?” Amelia asked, watching him for his
reaction.
reaction.
He tensed up. “We’ve recovered enough Exploding Fluid to be certain that he
was at least planning to attack someone. Although I expect the Unspeakables to
come up with a match for an attack or two once they analyse the fluid.”
was at least planning to attack someone. Although I expect the Unspeakables to
come up with a match for an attack or two once they analyse the fluid.”
He was carefully not saying anything about the most recent attack, Amelia
noted. He suspected himself, then. Or he might even know. But he wouldn’t do
anything. For the Head of the DMLE, that was… she shook her head.
noted. He suspected himself, then. Or he might even know. But he wouldn’t do
anything. For the Head of the DMLE, that was… she shook her head.
“Amelia?”
She ignored him and walked away. At least this might mean that tomorrow’s
muggleborn rally wouldn’t end in a riot that destroyed Hogsmeade.
muggleborn rally wouldn’t end in a riot that destroyed Hogsmeade.
Unless the muggleborns took today’s events as examples to emulate.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 21st, 1997**
“*Good evening, Mister… or should that be Monsieur…?”*
*He held his hand out, smiling, and the other wizard — or was it a witch? He
couldn’t tell, not with the blank mask covering their face and the cloak
obscuring their body — shook it with a weak, no, a gentle grip.*
couldn’t tell, not with the blank mask covering their face and the cloak
obscuring their body — shook it with a weak, no, a gentle grip.*
“*Mister will do.” Even their voice was masked, he was certain. There was
something missing there. But the French accent was still recognisable. “In the
sort of business that we are engaged in one should stay as discreet as
possible.”*
something missing there. But the French accent was still recognisable. “In the
sort of business that we are engaged in one should stay as discreet as
possible.”*
“*Mister.” He nodded, forcing himself to keep smiling. “I’m happy to welcome
you to my home.” He didn’t mention that he hadn’t had many visitors, not since
his acquittal.*
you to my home.” He didn’t mention that he hadn’t had many visitors, not since
his acquittal.*
“*And I am ’appy to be ’ere. Most of Britain ’as become a dangerous place for
true wizards and witches.”*
true wizards and witches.”*
“*Something we will remedy!” He knew they would.*
“*Something you will change,” his guest corrected him. “We can support and
’elp you, but not directly. Politics.”*
’elp you, but not directly. Politics.”*
*He knew that. “Isabelle, I mean, Mademoiselle Dubois, has explained your
situation to me.” In general terms, of course, she hadn’t actually named any
names. The Duc of France was playing both sides, trying to butter up the
mudbloods through the Delacours as well as supporting the purebloods. He
thought the other wizard tensed up, for a moment, but it was hard to tell with
their disguise.*
situation to me.” In general terms, of course, she hadn’t actually named any
names. The Duc of France was playing both sides, trying to butter up the
mudbloods through the Delacours as well as supporting the purebloods. He
thought the other wizard tensed up, for a moment, but it was hard to tell with
their disguise.*
“*We all ’ave our difficulties to deal with. Short-sighted wizards, weak
rulers, and traitors. And mudbloods.”*
rulers, and traitors. And mudbloods.”*
*He nodded eagerly. That precisely summed up Britain’s, no, Europe’s problems.
“Exactly. But there are enough wizards and witches of good breeding left to
stop this, before it ruins our country, and others.”*
“Exactly. But there are enough wizards and witches of good breeding left to
stop this, before it ruins our country, and others.”*
*His guest nodded. “It will be dangerous, though. And bloody.”*
*He and Isabelle had talked about that already. As if he had suddenly become a
coward just because he had been captured by the mudbloods. And he knew their
tricks now — they wouldn’t catch him again. He scoffed. “I’ve faced danger
already.” He had survived the war, after all. “And I’m no stranger to
violence.” Not at all.*
coward just because he had been captured by the mudbloods. And he knew their
tricks now — they wouldn’t catch him again. He scoffed. “I’ve faced danger
already.” He had survived the war, after all. “And I’m no stranger to
violence.” Not at all.*
“*Bien.” His guest reached inside his cloak and pulled out a small box. A tap
with his wand enlarged it. “You will find gold and other, more difficult to
acquire, things you might need inside.”*
with his wand enlarged it. “You will find gold and other, more difficult to
acquire, things you might need inside.”*
*He refrained from simply grabbing the box. That would have been rude. As
would be openly casting detection spells on a gift. Both of them knew, of
course, that he’d do so afterwards. He clapped his hands.*
would be openly casting detection spells on a gift. Both of them knew, of
course, that he’d do so afterwards. He clapped his hands.*
“*Master?”*
“*Take this to my study!” he ordered, without looking at the house-elf that
had stepped out of the passage in the wall. Servants were to be neither seen
nor heard, after all.*
had stepped out of the passage in the wall. Servants were to be neither seen
nor heard, after all.*
---
Sirius Black pulled his head out of the Pensieve and looked at Vivienne. She
shook her head. “I don’t recognise the visitor.”
shook her head. “I don’t recognise the visitor.”
“The accent is French, but that could have been faked,” he said. “Although the
memory looks genuine.” He wasn’t an expert, though.
memory looks genuine.” He wasn’t an expert, though.
“The accent may be false, but I do not think so. And that was Isabelle Dubois
in the other memory.” Vivienne almost sneered. “No one could duplicate ’er
attitude that well.”
in the other memory.” Vivienne almost sneered. “No one could duplicate ’er
attitude that well.”
Sirius almost checked if Nymphadora was around — the metamorphmagus might take
that as a challenge, and the French witch had been insufferable enough in the
memory; Sirius didn’t need to see her in the fake flesh, so to speak. “They
were cautious, though. Masks and cloaks…” Even Dubois hadn’t said anything
directly incriminating to Nott, but her meaning had been clear. “Our only link
is Dubois.”
that as a challenge, and the French witch had been insufferable enough in the
memory; Sirius didn’t need to see her in the fake flesh, so to speak. “They
were cautious, though. Masks and cloaks…” Even Dubois hadn’t said anything
directly incriminating to Nott, but her meaning had been clear. “Our only link
is Dubois.”
“She’s a friend of Beaumont’s. But so is ’alf the Court.” Vivienne scowled. A
touchy subject, Sirius knew.
touchy subject, Sirius knew.
“Well, maybe we should ask her then.”
Vivienne smiled, proving that Sirius could speak just as subtly as Dubois.
---
**Hogsmeade, March 22nd, 1997**
“Seamus, anything to report?” Hermione Granger asked, her left hand on the
button of her radio, while she was standing on the roof of the hall they had
put up near Hogsmeade.
button of her radio, while she was standing on the roof of the hall they had
put up near Hogsmeade.
“Half a dozen Aurors on the streets, and the same number of Hit-Wizards near
the hall,” Seamus, flying above her on his broom, with Tania, reported. ‘And
two each in the air.’ She heard him chuckle. “They must have scraped together
everyone they could, but they’re still outnumbered three to one by us alone!”
the hall,” Seamus, flying above her on his broom, with Tania, reported. ‘And
two each in the air.’ She heard him chuckle. “They must have scraped together
everyone they could, but they’re still outnumbered three to one by us alone!”
Unless the Ministry had placed some of their forces in reserve, hidden from
view. Hermione would have done that — provided she could have spared the
manpower. According to Tonks, the Ministry couldn’t. They had even asked other
departments for volunteers, Percy had told them. Bones must be livid, she
thought, to have the Ministry’s weakness revealed like that.
view. Hermione would have done that — provided she could have spared the
manpower. According to Tonks, the Ministry couldn’t. They had even asked other
departments for volunteers, Percy had told them. Bones must be livid, she
thought, to have the Ministry’s weakness revealed like that.
Although, while Seamus was technically correct, the Resistance was also
presenting the strongest front they could — they had brought out the recruits
from boot camp for this. And while the recruits looked impressive in their
camo fatigues and knew how to handle their guns, they weren’t quite up to
speed yet, even if one discounted their lack of experience.
presenting the strongest front they could — they had brought out the recruits
from boot camp for this. And while the recruits looked impressive in their
camo fatigues and knew how to handle their guns, they weren’t quite up to
speed yet, even if one discounted their lack of experience.
But looking impressive was the point of this rally. The Resistance needed to
show both the Ministry and the muggleborns that they were strong and had the
situation in hand. And the muggleborns needed to show everyone how many of
them had returned and were willing to fight for their rights.
show both the Ministry and the muggleborns that they were strong and had the
situation in hand. And the muggleborns needed to show everyone how many of
them had returned and were willing to fight for their rights.
Judging by the numbers of muggleborns she saw on the way to the hall from
Hogsmeade, and standing in line before the Thief’s Downfall, that had been
achieved already. She just hoped that there wouldn’t be any attacks — such a
mass of muggleborns was a tempting target.
Hogsmeade, and standing in line before the Thief’s Downfall, that had been
achieved already. She just hoped that there wouldn’t be any attacks — such a
mass of muggleborns was a tempting target.
Hermione shook her head. Despite the flyers they had distributed, and John’s
broadcast yesterday evening, not that many muggleborns had actually arrived
early. Instead of small, manageable groups, there was a throng of people at
the security check at the entrance.
broadcast yesterday evening, not that many muggleborns had actually arrived
early. Instead of small, manageable groups, there was a throng of people at
the security check at the entrance.
She frowned. The Resistance had people spread out all over the area, but they
couldn’t spot everything. She hoped that Nott’s death would be enough to make
the others involved in the attacks on muggleborns fear a similar fate should
they show up today. And that whoever was ordering his imperiused victims
around using international owl post hadn’t had the time to send instructions
to attack the rally. But it would only take one bomb or a single Blasting
Curse to wreck the event.
couldn’t spot everything. She hoped that Nott’s death would be enough to make
the others involved in the attacks on muggleborns fear a similar fate should
they show up today. And that whoever was ordering his imperiused victims
around using international owl post hadn’t had the time to send instructions
to attack the rally. But it would only take one bomb or a single Blasting
Curse to wreck the event.
---
There were more people than at the last rally, Hermione thought when she
stepped on to the stage at the back of the hall, next to John. Was Nott’s
death the reason for that? And if so, did they feel safer now, or did they
want more blood? They didn’t look that agitated, but that could easily change.
stepped on to the stage at the back of the hall, next to John. Was Nott’s
death the reason for that? And if so, did they feel safer now, or did they
want more blood? They didn’t look that agitated, but that could easily change.
John glanced at her, and when she nodded at him, he smiled and stepped stepped
right up to the transparent wall shielding the stage from the rest of the
hall. “Hello, everyone! I’m happy to see so many of you willing to stand up
for yourselves and join our rally here! It’s been a little while since we last
met, and, as you may have noticed, the Resistance is stronger than ever.”
right up to the transparent wall shielding the stage from the rest of the
hall. “Hello, everyone! I’m happy to see so many of you willing to stand up
for yourselves and join our rally here! It’s been a little while since we last
met, and, as you may have noticed, the Resistance is stronger than ever.”
Shouts of agreement filled the hall, barely muffled by the transparent wall.
John smiled even wider. “And here’s our leader, the witch who brought us all
together, fought for all of us, and led us through the war! Hermione!”
together, fought for all of us, and led us through the war! Hermione!”
Taking a deep breath, she stepped up while John withdrew from the stage. After
the applause died down, she cleared her throat, cast an Amplifying Charm and
started to speak. “Many things have happened since our last rally. Cowards who
hide behind imperiused victims attacked muggleborns in Diagon Alley. Someone
tried to frame the Resistance for an attack on Hogsmeade using another
imperiused victim. We’ve even been accused of attacking houngans in Jamaica!”
the applause died down, she cleared her throat, cast an Amplifying Charm and
started to speak. “Many things have happened since our last rally. Cowards who
hide behind imperiused victims attacked muggleborns in Diagon Alley. Someone
tried to frame the Resistance for an attack on Hogsmeade using another
imperiused victim. We’ve even been accused of attacking houngans in Jamaica!”
That caused some whispers, and someone yelled: “And they attacked Hogwarts!”
“They did, and they were driven off,” she said, with a nod in the direction of
the speaker. ‘Just as they were driven off when they attacked Diagon Alley
again, yesterday.’ More people started to say something, but she kept
speaking, her amplified voice drowning out the comments. “But this time, the
attacker didn’t get away! We tracked him to his home, and brought him to
justice!” She paused when the crowd started to yell about Death Eaters, then
waited until the noise abated somewhat. “The attacker was none other than
Theodore Nott — a Death Eater we had captured during the war, but who was set
free by the Wizengamot!”
the speaker. ‘Just as they were driven off when they attacked Diagon Alley
again, yesterday.’ More people started to say something, but she kept
speaking, her amplified voice drowning out the comments. “But this time, the
attacker didn’t get away! We tracked him to his home, and brought him to
justice!” She paused when the crowd started to yell about Death Eaters, then
waited until the noise abated somewhat. “The attacker was none other than
Theodore Nott — a Death Eater we had captured during the war, but who was set
free by the Wizengamot!”
“He won’t get acquitted any more!” another wizard yelled.
This time she ignored the comment. The crowd was already riled up. “Nott
wasn’t just attacking muggleborns — he was trying to make muggleborns attack
purebloods, to restart the war. We stopped him, but there are others like him,
people who want to see us, the muggleborns of Britain, fail. They want to see
us turn on innocents, to see the indiscriminate bombing of wizarding
dwellings, to see young children burned alive, all so they can denounce us as
monsters. So they can call us criminals and deny us our rights!” Once more she
kept talking over the outraged yells. “But we won’t let them! We fought them
in the war, and won! We’re fighting them in the Wizengamot, and we’re winning!
They cannot stop us! They cannot silence us!
wasn’t just attacking muggleborns — he was trying to make muggleborns attack
purebloods, to restart the war. We stopped him, but there are others like him,
people who want to see us, the muggleborns of Britain, fail. They want to see
us turn on innocents, to see the indiscriminate bombing of wizarding
dwellings, to see young children burned alive, all so they can denounce us as
monsters. So they can call us criminals and deny us our rights!” Once more she
kept talking over the outraged yells. “But we won’t let them! We fought them
in the war, and won! We’re fighting them in the Wizengamot, and we’re winning!
They cannot stop us! They cannot silence us!
“All we have to do win is to persevere! To uphold our ideals and stand fast!
We cannot allow ourselves to become what we fought so hard against! We will
not lash out at others just because they’re purebloods! We know better than
that! We are better than that! Blood doesn’t matter!”
We cannot allow ourselves to become what we fought so hard against! We will
not lash out at others just because they’re purebloods! We know better than
that! We are better than that! Blood doesn’t matter!”
The crowd started to yell now. “Blood doesn’t matter! Blood doesn’t matter!”
“We’re not just fighting for the rights of the muggleborns, but for the rights
of every wizard and witch in Britain! We’re all in this together, and we’re
winning! We will have democracy! We will have equality! We will have our
victory!”
of every wizard and witch in Britain! We’re all in this together, and we’re
winning! We will have democracy! We will have equality! We will have our
victory!”
---
**Hogsmeade, March 22nd, 1997**
Harry Potter was glad when the last of the audience had left the hall. There
was still the possibility of an ambush in Hogsmeade, but the rally had ended
without a riot breaking out. And without him having to help calm down the
crowd.
was still the possibility of an ambush in Hogsmeade, but the rally had ended
without a riot breaking out. And without him having to help calm down the
crowd.
Two of the new recruits, Anna and Gary, closed the hall’s doors and he walked
over to them, checking on the way that nothing had been left behind on the
floor. They tensed up when they saw him, and he couldn’t refrain from
snorting. By now he had been training (and getting yelled at by the Sergeant)
with them for two weeks, and he was currently wearing the same fatigues as the
Resistance, but most of the new recruits treated him like they treated the
veterans of the Resistance. Which, he had to admit, he was, in a way.
over to them, checking on the way that nothing had been left behind on the
floor. They tensed up when they saw him, and he couldn’t refrain from
snorting. By now he had been training (and getting yelled at by the Sergeant)
with them for two weeks, and he was currently wearing the same fatigues as the
Resistance, but most of the new recruits treated him like they treated the
veterans of the Resistance. Which, he had to admit, he was, in a way.
“At ease,” he said, smirking, and Anna pouted at him while Gary chuckled.
“Your imitation of the Major needs some work,” Gary said. He was still a bit
tense, but not as much as before.
tense, but not as much as before.
Harry shrugged. “It’s only been two weeks.” He adjusted the sling of his
rifle.
rifle.
“We just successfully completed our first mission!” Anna said, smiling.
“It’s not complete until you’ve been debriefed by your superior,” Harry
reflexively said, then wished he hadn’t when he saw the witch wince.
reflexively said, then wished he hadn’t when he saw the witch wince.
“That was a good Sergeant,” Gary said, though he wasn’t sounding quite as
amused as before.
amused as before.
“It was something Moody drilled into us,” Harry said. ‘Veteran Auror,’ he
added when the two older muggleborns didn’t seem to recognise the name. “He
trained me and Ron during the war.”
added when the two older muggleborns didn’t seem to recognise the name. “He
trained me and Ron during the war.”
“Ah.” Anna nodded. Just like she nodded when the Sergeant told her something.
Or Hermione.
Or Hermione.
So much for being one of the guys, Harry thought. Hermione and Sirius were
correct — he wasn’t ‘just Harry’, and wouldn’t ever be ‘just Harry’. At least
not with most people, he added when he spotted Ron and Hermione walking
towards them from the back.
correct — he wasn’t ‘just Harry’, and wouldn’t ever be ‘just Harry’. At least
not with most people, he added when he spotted Ron and Hermione walking
towards them from the back.
He didn’t have to force himself to keep smiling any more when he saw his two
best friends together, but he still felt somewhat awkward. Even when they
weren’t acting affectionate. He knew that they were sleeping together every
night Hermione was at boot camp, after all. And now he was jealous, again.
best friends together, but he still felt somewhat awkward. Even when they
weren’t acting affectionate. He knew that they were sleeping together every
night Hermione was at boot camp, after all. And now he was jealous, again.
“Hey,” he said. “Good speech.”
Hermione smiled, then frowned. “It could have been better, I think. But it
worked out.” Harry grinned — she sounded like she usually did right after the
exams.
worked out.” Harry grinned — she sounded like she usually did right after the
exams.
“No one’s started a hunting party,” Ron said. “So, that’s a success.”
“No one did so openly,” Hermione corrected him. “We don’t know what people
might be planning.”
might be planning.”
“You can’t know everything,” Ron said. “Even though you’re coming close,” he
added with a grin.
added with a grin.
Hermione huffed, then turned to Anna and Gary, who hadn’t said a word since
Harry’s friends had arrived. The two straightened up at once. “Report to
Justin and help cover Hogsmeade. We’re going to vanish the hall.”
Harry’s friends had arrived. The two straightened up at once. “Report to
Justin and help cover Hogsmeade. We’re going to vanish the hall.”
“Yes, m… Hermione,” Gary said. Anna just nodded.
As soon as they left, Harry heard Hermione sigh. “I know I should be glad that
they hold me in such high regard, it makes leading the Resistance far easier,
but to be called ma’am at my age…”
they hold me in such high regard, it makes leading the Resistance far easier,
but to be called ma’am at my age…”
Harry shrugged. “That’s the price of fame.”
Judging by the way Hermione narrowed her eyes, she remembered her own words,
and didn’t like having them quoted back at her.
and didn’t like having them quoted back at her.
He couldn’t resist. “Maybe we should find a good nom de guerre for you as
well.”
well.”
“Purebloods’ Boggart!” Ron said at once, chuckling.
Hermione glared at them both, then shook her head. She was smiling, though.
“Let’s step out and start vanishing the hall, before the grass gets too
damaged.”
“Let’s step out and start vanishing the hall, before the grass gets too
damaged.”
“Nothing the right spells won’t fix,” Ron said. “Sprout could make a detention
out of it.”
out of it.”
“It’s the principle of the thing,” Hermione answered, opening the door. “And
the Easter vacation has started, so there aren’t any detentions to be served
anyway.”
the Easter vacation has started, so there aren’t any detentions to be served
anyway.”
“Oh, right.” Harry blinked.
His friends turned around, looking at him.
He answered their unspoken question. “Neville wanted to hunt down Death Eaters
hiding in muggle London. I put him in touch with the twins, but I haven’t
checked what came of it.” He had been too busy with the training and the
latest troubles.
hiding in muggle London. I put him in touch with the twins, but I haven’t
checked what came of it.” He had been too busy with the training and the
latest troubles.
“Ginny hasn’t mentioned anything, and she usually nags me about Neville,” Ron
said, frowning. “Though I haven’t talked to her lately.”
said, frowning. “Though I haven’t talked to her lately.”
The last time they had been at Hogwarts hadn’t been a good time to discuss
such matters, Harry thought. Not with all the blood and gore to explain. “We
can talk to her at home,” he suggested.
such matters, Harry thought. Not with all the blood and gore to explain. “We
can talk to her at home,” he suggested.
“We should have done that already.” Ron winced. “She’ll be mad at us.”
“It couldn’t be helped,” Hermione said. “We had too much to deal with.”
Hermione was right, but Harry still felt guilty about neglecting his friends.
“We’ll have to talk to Neville as well.”
“We’ll have to talk to Neville as well.”
“Before he goes off by himself, and makes a mess,” Hermione agreed, nodding.
Harry wouldn’t have put it like that, but he feared that she was correct.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 22nd, 1997**
“Now you’re asking about Neville?”
Standing in Sirius’s kitchen, Ron Weasley winced at Ginny’s tone. His sister
was glaring at him and Harry with her arms crossed over her chest. “Well… we
were busy.” He knew it wasn’t a good excuse.
was glaring at him and Harry with her arms crossed over her chest. “Well… we
were busy.” He knew it wasn’t a good excuse.
“Too busy to talk to him?” She frowned at him, then switched her attention to
Harry.
Harry.
Ron’s friend grimaced. “The attacks, the training, the Wizengamot and the
rally…” He shrugged.
rally…” He shrugged.
Ginny scoffed. “You know how he acted when you were still at Hogwarts. He
hasn’t changed. He’s become worse, even. He’s been preparing for this. Even
asked the muggleborns from the lower years about how to dress as a muggle so
he can fit in.”
hasn’t changed. He’s become worse, even. He’s been preparing for this. Even
asked the muggleborns from the lower years about how to dress as a muggle so
he can fit in.”
She should have mentioned that before today, Ron thought, then scolded himself
for being a hypocrite. “Sounds like he’ll go at it alone if he has to,” he
said. “Do you know if he talked to anyone about this?”
for being a hypocrite. “Sounds like he’ll go at it alone if he has to,” he
said. “Do you know if he talked to anyone about this?”
“The twins, maybe?” Harry cut in.
“He didn’t mention them,” Ginny said.
“They were rather busy this week,” Ron said. He didn’t say what they had been
doing — Ginny didn’t know that they had been observing Nott for a week before
striking at his manor.
doing — Ginny didn’t know that they had been observing Nott for a week before
striking at his manor.
“As was Sirius,” Harry added. “He hasn’t mentioned Neville.”
“So… Neville was left hanging.” Ginny’s frown grew.
Ron refrained from saying that Neville hadn’t always been so eager to strike
at Death Eaters. That would have been unfair. He sighed. “Yes, we forgot about
him.”
at Death Eaters. That would have been unfair. He sighed. “Yes, we forgot about
him.”
“I forgot about him,” Harry corrected him. “I told him I would put him in
touch with others, meaning the twins and Sirius, but I didn’t really check up
on how that worked out.”
touch with others, meaning the twins and Sirius, but I didn’t really check up
on how that worked out.”
As usual, Harry was blaming himself for everything, Ron thought. “I should
have thought about it as well,” he said. “But we were busy, mate. Let’s just
call him now.”
have thought about it as well,” he said. “But we were busy, mate. Let’s just
call him now.”
Neville wouldn’t have already gone out hunting today, would he? And even if he
had, he wouldn’t have found any of the purebloods in hiding yet, Ron told
himself as they walked to the entrance hall.
had, he wouldn’t have found any of the purebloods in hiding yet, Ron told
himself as they walked to the entrance hall.
“Where’s Hermione?” Ginny asked while Harry grabbed some Floo powder.
“She’s with the rest of the Resistance, handling the debriefing after the
rally. She’ll be joining us here as soon as she’s done,” Ron answered.
rally. She’ll be joining us here as soon as she’s done,” Ron answered.
“Ah.”
Did she sound relieved? Ron shook his head. She should simply tell Harry how
she felt, in his opinion. But he knew better than to tell her that.
she felt, in his opinion. But he knew better than to tell her that.
“Longbottom Manor!” Harry said, throwing the powder into the fire. When it
turned green, he knelt down and stuck his head inside. “Hello?”
turned green, he knelt down and stuck his head inside. “Hello?”
Ron couldn’t hear who Harry was talking to, but it wasn’t Neville.
“I’m Harry Potter, a friend of Neville’s. Is he at home?”
“Ah. Could you tell him that I called?”
“Thank you.”
Harry stood up again and stretched. “Neville went out. His house-elf doesn’t
know where he went.”
know where he went.”
Ron sighed. They’d check with the twins, but he already had a feeling that
they hadn’t talked to Neville either… “Great.”
they hadn’t talked to Neville either… “Great.”
---
**London, Camden, March 22nd, 1997**
“How is it?”
Bess Cox swallowed the forkful of spaghetti bolognese before answering
Randall. “It’s good,” she replied.
Randall. “It’s good,” she replied.
“I couldn’t eat another fish and chips dinner,” Randall said, cutting another
piece off his pizza.
piece off his pizza.
“You said that before.” That was why he had picked the restaurant, after all.
He snorted. “And there’s no chance of anyone overhearing us here.”
That was just an excuse, in her opinion. A privacy spell would make
eavesdropping impossible even in the midst of Diagon Alley. But she had been
getting a bit sick of Freddie’s herself lately. “So… what was your impression
of the rally?”
eavesdropping impossible even in the midst of Diagon Alley. But she had been
getting a bit sick of Freddie’s herself lately. “So… what was your impression
of the rally?”
“Granger was pretty persuasive,” he said.
Bess scoffed. “She’s quite the hypocrite, though. We shouldn’t do anything,
and she goes and kills Nott?”
and she goes and kills Nott?”
Randall chuckled. “You’re right. On the other hand, she’s the one on the
Wizengamot, with Black and Potter.”
Wizengamot, with Black and Potter.”
“And her boyfriend, Weasley.” Another pureblood.
“Him too.” Randall nodded. “They’re bound to have more information.”
“Which they keep to themselves.” She took another forkful.
“That’s to be expected. Loose lips sink ships,” he quoted.
Bess snorted, then swallowed. “She’s still a hypocrite. And probably a
sell-out.”
sell-out.”
“Probably?” He grinned.
She scowled at him. “It depends on whether they can get rid of the Wizengamot
and the Ministry, or not. If she’s telling us to be patient forever…” She
shrugged. People in power wanted to stay in power. And Granger had risen very
high for a muggleborn witch nominally in her sixth year. Bess was wondering,
though, what Randall was thinking. They had plans, after all.
and the Ministry, or not. If she’s telling us to be patient forever…” She
shrugged. People in power wanted to stay in power. And Granger had risen very
high for a muggleborn witch nominally in her sixth year. Bess was wondering,
though, what Randall was thinking. They had plans, after all.
“Well, technically, she just told us not to lash out at random purebloods. I
doubt anyone will mind if we bag a known Death Eater,” he said.
doubt anyone will mind if we bag a known Death Eater,” he said.
She grinned. “You’ve found one, then.”
He smiled. “I found a warded flat that the neighbours don’t remember. I don’t
know who’s hiding there, though.”
know who’s hiding there, though.”
“Let’s go find out!”
---
**London, Islington, March 22nd, 1997**
“How did you find it?” Bess Cox asked. She was sitting in a pub and studying
the building across the street.
the building across the street.
“It was the first address mentioned in the article in the Daily Mirror.”
She turned her head to look at Randall. “Seriously?”
He was grinning widely. “Yes. Sort of like the Terminator, I started at the
top.”
top.”
That caused her to snort. “But I don’t think they’d open the door to the flat
if we rang the bell.” The purebloods inside would know that they were caught,
then — muggles wouldn’t be able to even think of doing that due to the
Muggle-Repelling Charms on the flat.
if we rang the bell.” The purebloods inside would know that they were caught,
then — muggles wouldn’t be able to even think of doing that due to the
Muggle-Repelling Charms on the flat.
“Unfortunately, we can’t do that. And the flat’s warded, so we can’t easily
break in either.”
break in either.”
“How good are you at taking down wards?” Bess had never really studied that;
during her time at Hogwarts, it hadn’t been taught in Defence, and the exams
hadn’t more than touched on that subject, so she hadn’t studied it on her own
either. If she had known how to deal with wards, maybe the attack on
Hogsmeade’s Death Eaters would have gone differently…
during her time at Hogwarts, it hadn’t been taught in Defence, and the exams
hadn’t more than touched on that subject, so she hadn’t studied it on her own
either. If she had known how to deal with wards, maybe the attack on
Hogsmeade’s Death Eaters would have gone differently…
“I’m not a real Curse-Breaker, but I should be able to take down those wards,”
Randall said. ‘They’re not that strong. Probably because they didn’t want
anyone to know about the flat, and so had to do it themselves.’ He rubbed his
chin. “So, we need to block Apparition and Portkeys. I doubt they have a Floo
connection there — that would have revealed their location to the Ministry.”
Randall said. ‘They’re not that strong. Probably because they didn’t want
anyone to know about the flat, and so had to do it themselves.’ He rubbed his
chin. “So, we need to block Apparition and Portkeys. I doubt they have a Floo
connection there — that would have revealed their location to the Ministry.”
Bess scoffed. The Ministry only stopped hunting muggleborns and supporting the
Death Eaters because they were forced to by the Resistance. They still hated
muggleborns, even if they also feared them now.
Death Eaters because they were forced to by the Resistance. They still hated
muggleborns, even if they also feared them now.
Randall glanced at her, but didn’t comment.
“Do you have any idea who they are?” she asked. “And how many there are?”
Randall shook his head. “No, I don’t. And I don’t see how we could find out —
observing the flat won’t tell us much since they’ll be apparating in and out.”
observing the flat won’t tell us much since they’ll be apparating in and out.”
Bess nodded. Using the door would mean they might meet some muggles on the way
— and purebloods wouldn’t want that. “Can we take whoever’s in there then?”
She wasn’t an expert duellist, and Randall was smart, but he had less
experience in magical fighting than she did — and hers was limited to that
horrible night in Hogsmeade. They’d been training together, though.
— and purebloods wouldn’t want that. “Can we take whoever’s in there then?”
She wasn’t an expert duellist, and Randall was smart, but he had less
experience in magical fighting than she did — and hers was limited to that
horrible night in Hogsmeade. They’d been training together, though.
Randall took a deep breath. “If it’s only one, yes. Two, maybe.”
“‘Maybe’ is not good enough.” Bess clenched her teeth. She knew what happened
if you underestimated your enemy.
if you underestimated your enemy.
“If we could break the wards while they are out, then we could ambush them
once they return. Or place a trap.” Randall rubbed his chin. “But then we
wouldn’t know who was hiding there.”
once they return. Or place a trap.” Randall rubbed his chin. “But then we
wouldn’t know who was hiding there.”
“And we wouldn’t know when they were out — or if they’re going to be out long
enough anyway,” Bess said. “With a few Extension Charms, they could have half
a manor in there.” Which meant that they could have half a manor’s worth of
wizards in there.
enough anyway,” Bess said. “With a few Extension Charms, they could have half
a manor in there.” Which meant that they could have half a manor’s worth of
wizards in there.
Randall looked at the flat in question again. “We might be able to spy on them
from the right vantage point.”
from the right vantage point.”
“Renting a flat in this building, to spy on them?” That sounded like spy novel
stuff. “How about we skip this flat, and check the next one?”
stuff. “How about we skip this flat, and check the next one?”
“I don’t think the next one will be any different,” Randall pointed out.
“Shite.” Bess finished her ale. She wanted to do something. Hurt the Death
Eaters and bigots. They were right there, across the street!
Eaters and bigots. They were right there, across the street!
She was trying to get the waiter’s attention to order another ale when Randall
suddenly hissed: “Check out that man!”
suddenly hissed: “Check out that man!”
He was nodding in the direction of a nearby table. The man sitting there was
dressed rather fashionably, as far as she could tell — but for the hat on his
head that was hiding his face.
dressed rather fashionably, as far as she could tell — but for the hat on his
head that was hiding his face.
“He’s been staring at the flat as well,” Randal whispered to her without
making it obvious that he was watching the man.
making it obvious that he was watching the man.
The waiter finally stopped flirting with the pair of girls sitting at the bar,
and walked over. Bess watched as the man jerked when he was addressed, hastily
ordered something, and went straight back to staring outside the window.
Which, especially at this time of the evening, didn’t really offer anything
interesting — unless you knew about the hideout on the second floor across the
street. When the man took a minute to pay the waiter, shuffling the money
around and looking at the coins and notes as if he hadn’t seen them before,
Bess knew.
and walked over. Bess watched as the man jerked when he was addressed, hastily
ordered something, and went straight back to staring outside the window.
Which, especially at this time of the evening, didn’t really offer anything
interesting — unless you knew about the hideout on the second floor across the
street. When the man took a minute to pay the waiter, shuffling the money
around and looking at the coins and notes as if he hadn’t seen them before,
Bess knew.
“He’s a pureblood,” she whispered.
“Yes,” Randall agreed.
“Can we take him?” They were in public, but if they ambushed him outside the
pub, they could be gone before anyone could react.
pub, they could be gone before anyone could react.
Randall looked at her. “If he was with the occupants of the flat, he wouldn’t
be here, in a passable disguise, would he?”
be here, in a passable disguise, would he?”
Bess frowned. He had a point. But she really wanted to do something. Anything.
And they didn’t know who the man was. “We need to find out what he knows. And
who he is.” They couldn’t attack the flat with an unknown observing it.
And they didn’t know who the man was. “We need to find out what he knows. And
who he is.” They couldn’t attack the flat with an unknown observing it.
“We don’t have Veritaserum.” Randall was glancing at the man again.
“I wasn’t thinking of that,” Bess whispered, drawing her wand under the table.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 22nd, 1997**
“What happened in London, Pius?”
Amelia Bones hated to rely on Pius for information, but she couldn’t trust the
Aurors left in the Corps to tell her the truth without informing their
superiors. She almost snorted — there weren’t Aurors left she could trust,
period. At least not Aurors with experience. Certainly not Dawlish. The Head
Auror had made it quite clear that he was already positioning himself for the
time after her term. Not that Pius could be trusted either.
Aurors left in the Corps to tell her the truth without informing their
superiors. She almost snorted — there weren’t Aurors left she could trust,
period. At least not Aurors with experience. Certainly not Dawlish. The Head
Auror had made it quite clear that he was already positioning himself for the
time after her term. Not that Pius could be trusted either.
“I assume you are talking about the incident in…” He glanced at the parchment
in his hands. “… Islington.”
in his hands. “… Islington.”
She almost rolled her eyes in response. She knew that he didn’t need to check
such details before answering. She refrained from answering with a barb,
though. “Yes.”
such details before answering. She refrained from answering with a barb,
though. “Yes.”
“We received the report from the Obliviators just an hour ago, and it took a
little longer until a team of Aurors arrived at the scene.”
little longer until a team of Aurors arrived at the scene.”
“Don’t give me excuses, give me information.” she glared at him.
He took a deep breath before continuing. “According to the Obliviators, a
fight between at least three wizards took place in front of muggles. In a pub,
to be exact. Collateral damage was considerable, and the Muggle-Worthy Excuse
Committee is expected to blame muggle extremist groups — ‘hooligans’, I
believe they are called — using a fire bomb for this.”
fight between at least three wizards took place in front of muggles. In a pub,
to be exact. Collateral damage was considerable, and the Muggle-Worthy Excuse
Committee is expected to blame muggle extremist groups — ‘hooligans’, I
believe they are called — using a fire bomb for this.”
Amelia blinked. “Was there actually a bomb used in the battle?” That would
indicate muggleborns. As did the location itself.
indicate muggleborns. As did the location itself.
“Not to my knowledge.” Pius shook his head. “Although John suspects that the
fight is related to the warded flat we discovered across the street from the
location of the battle.”
fight is related to the warded flat we discovered across the street from the
location of the battle.”
That was a given — wizards didn’t simply meet and fight in a muggle area. “A
warded flat in a muggle neighbourhood.” Amelia narrowed her eyes. “A safe
house?”
warded flat in a muggle neighbourhood.” Amelia narrowed her eyes. “A safe
house?”
“That is possible. It was empty when my team took down the wards and entered,
but there were signs of a hasty flight, and prior long-term occupation. There
is no indication that there was a fight in the flat, though.” Pius glanced at
the parchment again. “So far we haven’t been able to find out who had been
using the flat.”
but there were signs of a hasty flight, and prior long-term occupation. There
is no indication that there was a fight in the flat, though.” Pius glanced at
the parchment again. “So far we haven’t been able to find out who had been
using the flat.”
“That’s not much for an incident that’s already caused the ICW delegation to
contact me asking if war has broken out.” At least the Obliviators had handled
both the incident and the delegates easily enough.
contact me asking if war has broken out.” At least the Obliviators had handled
both the incident and the delegates easily enough.
“It’s only been two hours, and since the muggle authorities are present we
cannot openly use magic.”
cannot openly use magic.”
Another excuse that wouldn’t have flown when she was the Head of the DMLE. “I
don’t care how difficult it is. We can’t have muggleborns and Death Eaters
fighting in muggle areas. That will play directly into the ICW’s hands.” She
shook her head. “I’ll contact Black and see what he knows about this. You push
Dawlish to produce results. We need to solve this case quickly.”
don’t care how difficult it is. We can’t have muggleborns and Death Eaters
fighting in muggle areas. That will play directly into the ICW’s hands.” She
shook her head. “I’ll contact Black and see what he knows about this. You push
Dawlish to produce results. We need to solve this case quickly.”
Pius frowned briefly before he nodded. She had expected that — she was certain
that he would prefer to talk to Black himself. But this was a matter for the
Minister for Magic. And as long as she held that position, she would do her
duty.
that he would prefer to talk to Black himself. But this was a matter for the
Minister for Magic. And as long as she held that position, she would do her
duty.
---
**London, Bromley, March 22nd, 1997**
“*Let’s go say hello!”*
*Randall opened his mouth to say something, but she was already standing up
and walking towards the unknown wizard, her wand hidden behind her back. She
couldn’t cast the Imperius, but she could hold someone at wand point. The
others in the pub wouldn’t even notice — just like in the movies. A glance
told her that Randall was right behind her. He wouldn’t be happy about this,
she knew, but he would have her back anyway.*
and walking towards the unknown wizard, her wand hidden behind her back. She
couldn’t cast the Imperius, but she could hold someone at wand point. The
others in the pub wouldn’t even notice — just like in the movies. A glance
told her that Randall was right behind her. He wouldn’t be happy about this,
she knew, but he would have her back anyway.*
*She was only a few steps away when the wizard noticed her. She saw his head
turn towards her, his eyes still hidden by his ugly hat. She moved her arm a
bit, to let him see her wand, to show him that they had him outnumbered and at
wand point.*
turn towards her, his eyes still hidden by his ugly hat. She moved her arm a
bit, to let him see her wand, to show him that they had him outnumbered and at
wand point.*
*She was just about to tell him not to do anything foolish when she noticed
that his right hand was hidden under the table. Before she could react, the
entire table shot towards her. She managed to twist away, but that only kept
her from having her face smashed in when the table hit her and slammed her
into the wall behind.*
that his right hand was hidden under the table. Before she could react, the
entire table shot towards her. She managed to twist away, but that only kept
her from having her face smashed in when the table hit her and slammed her
into the wall behind.*
*She came to on the floor, disoriented for a moment. She was pushing herself
up and grabbing her wand when the wall above her blew up, and fragments rained
down on her. She heard screams and saw people rushing to the pub’s bar in the
background. Dimly, she saw Randall moving, casting, as she scrambled away on
all fours, then stood up.*
up and grabbing her wand when the wall above her blew up, and fragments rained
down on her. She heard screams and saw people rushing to the pub’s bar in the
background. Dimly, she saw Randall moving, casting, as she scrambled away on
all fours, then stood up.*
*Their enemy was at the door, one of Randall’s curses splashing against his
Shield Charm. A strong Shield Charm — it didn’t shatter. She sent a Reductor
Curse of her own at it, but missed, blowing up the door behind him. That
caught his attention, and she almost froze when his wand flicked towards her.*
Shield Charm. A strong Shield Charm — it didn’t shatter. She sent a Reductor
Curse of her own at it, but missed, blowing up the door behind him. That
caught his attention, and she almost froze when his wand flicked towards her.*
*Screaming, she rolled to the side, a curse splashing on the ground near her,
and then she screamed in earnest when her side started to hurt as if her skin
was on fire. Rolling around behind the remains of another table, she saw that
there were smoking patches on her clothes and screamed even more. Then
something hit her head and…*
and then she screamed in earnest when her side started to hurt as if her skin
was on fire. Rolling around behind the remains of another table, she saw that
there were smoking patches on her clothes and screamed even more. Then
something hit her head and…*
Bess Cox woke up panting and sweating. She had barely realised that she didn’t
know where she was when she felt the pain in her side.
know where she was when she felt the pain in her side.
“Take this,” someone said — Randall, she recognised the voice — and put a vial
into her hand.
into her hand.
She downed it without hesitating or checking what it was, then hissed while
the pain slowly eased.
the pain slowly eased.
“Did it help?”
Bess nodded. “Th… thanks,” she managed to say.
“I couldn’t do much about the acid burns. The ointment will take some time to
restore the skin.”
restore the skin.”
“Acid?” Hadn’t she been on fire?
“You were hit with conjured acid of some sort. Fortunately, it was just some
splatter, the spell missed you. Otherwise, I’d have had to take you to St.
Mungo’s.”
splatter, the spell missed you. Otherwise, I’d have had to take you to St.
Mungo’s.”
Which would have meant Aurors taking an interest. And she was still a wanted
witch as far as she knew. Bess nodded. “Thank you again.” The pain was gone
now. “Where are we?”
witch as far as she knew. Bess nodded. “Thank you again.” The pain was gone
now. “Where are we?”
“In a hotel,” he explained. “I obliviated the concierge, so we’re safe for the
moment.”
moment.”
“Good. What happened?”
“The wizard escaped. I did hit him with a curse or two, though. I think, at
least.” He sighed. “I managed to get you and apparate out before the
Obliviators or Aurors arrived.”
least.” He sighed. “I managed to get you and apparate out before the
Obliviators or Aurors arrived.”
She gasped. “Shite! We had a fight in front of the entire pub!”
He nodded. “Breaking the Statute of Secrecy…” He grimaced while trailing off.
“We were just defending ourselves,” she said. “He started it.”
“After you threatened him. ‘Let’s go say hello’? Really?” He was glaring at
her.
her.
“I didn’t expect him to attack us.” Not in front of the pub. Or when faced
with two wands. “Did you see his face?” The wizard had to have been an
experienced fighter, probably a veteran of the war, given how he had fought
both of them at once.
with two wands. “Did you see his face?” The wizard had to have been an
experienced fighter, probably a veteran of the war, given how he had fought
both of them at once.
Randall shook his head. “Not clearly. Maybe if we had a Pensieve…”
She snorted at that thought, and he shrugged. “The news are calling it a
firebomb attack. IRA or some crazy hooligans.” He snorted. “The Ministry’s
excuses are quite transparent.”
firebomb attack. IRA or some crazy hooligans.” He snorted. “The Ministry’s
excuses are quite transparent.”
The Ministry would be hunting them, now. Bess tensed, then told herself they
were still safe. The Aurors wouldn’t know them. The Obliviators would have
erased the memories of the witnesses.
were still safe. The Aurors wouldn’t know them. The Obliviators would have
erased the memories of the witnesses.
But the purebloods in the flat would have been warned and escaped by now. And
she wasn’t in any shape to continue the hunt. Bess closed her eyes and
muttered a few curses under her breath. That could have gone better.
she wasn’t in any shape to continue the hunt. Bess closed her eyes and
muttered a few curses under her breath. That could have gone better.
But, she added to herself, it could have gone a lot worse as well.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 23rd, 1997**
“I assure you, Amelia, that we have no idea who was behind the incident in
Islington.” That wasn’t entirely accurate — they had a suspicion, at least,
but Neville hadn’t called back yet — but Sirius Black didn’t worry about such
details. It wasn’t as if Bones looked like she believed him, anyway.
Islington.” That wasn’t entirely accurate — they had a suspicion, at least,
but Neville hadn’t called back yet — but Sirius Black didn’t worry about such
details. It wasn’t as if Bones looked like she believed him, anyway.
“The Resistance had just finished guarding our rally in Hogsmeade,” Hermione
added. “We were not involved in that fight.”
added. “We were not involved in that fight.”
Sirius glanced at the younger witch. Hermione was staring at Bones as if she
dared the Minister to contradict her. She probably was, he thought — relations
between the two witches were even worse than between himself and the Minister.
He looked back at the older witch. “We’re very much interested in finding out
who fought there, of course.” And who had been living in that flat across from
the site of the fight. “What have your Aurors found out so far?”
dared the Minister to contradict her. She probably was, he thought — relations
between the two witches were even worse than between himself and the Minister.
He looked back at the older witch. “We’re very much interested in finding out
who fought there, of course.” And who had been living in that flat across from
the site of the fight. “What have your Aurors found out so far?”
“Nothing.”
Sirius couldn’t tell if Bones was lying — she was frustrated, but that was
normal for her, in his experience. He shrugged. “Well, if you need help, I
know a few skilled wizards and witches who could lend you some assistance.”
normal for her, in his experience. He shrugged. “Well, if you need help, I
know a few skilled wizards and witches who could lend you some assistance.”
Her expression made him want to chuckle. “We suspect that muggleborns were
involved,” she spat out. “Given the location.”
involved,” she spat out. “Given the location.”
Hermione slightly cocked her head and frowned. “That seems rather arbitrary.”
“Who else would be found in that area?”
“Death Eater sympathisers in hiding?” Sirius said. He spread his hands when
Bones glared at him. “They go out to eat in the pub across the street, get
into an argument, and settle it the pureblood way?”
Bones glared at him. “They go out to eat in the pub across the street, get
into an argument, and settle it the pureblood way?”
That earned him a glare from Bones and an eyeroll from Hermione.
“This sort of incident is not helping our dealings with the ICW,” Bones
pressed out through clenched teeth.
pressed out through clenched teeth.
Sirius shrugged. “It was handled by the Obliviators. As it was supposed to be.
Speaking of the ICW, we’ve discussed the accusations by Jamaica.”
Speaking of the ICW, we’ve discussed the accusations by Jamaica.”
Hermione took her cue. “We should ask Jamaica for samples of the muggle
explosives allegedly used in that attack on that houngan, to check with our
own records. That would let us determine whether there is any link to the
attacks in Britain.”
explosives allegedly used in that attack on that houngan, to check with our
own records. That would let us determine whether there is any link to the
attacks in Britain.”
“And,” Sirius took over before Bones could answer, “it’ll put some pressure on
the houngans.” Even Fawley wouldn’t be able to mess that up. Britain would
appear cooperative and helpful, and the houngans would refuse to hand over
such samples anyway — they were far too secretive.
the houngans.” Even Fawley wouldn’t be able to mess that up. Britain would
appear cooperative and helpful, and the houngans would refuse to hand over
such samples anyway — they were far too secretive.
Bones slowly nodded. “And what if they do offer those samples?”
“Then we analyse them,” Hermione said. Her tone left no doubt that she
considered the question stupid. Bones’s expression left no doubt that she knew
that.
considered the question stupid. Bones’s expression left no doubt that she knew
that.
Sirius wanted to chuckle again, but that would probably have pushed Bones too
far.
far.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 23rd, 1997**
“Do you think Bones will accept our proposal?” Hermione Granger asked as soon
as Sirius had stepped out of the fireplace into the entrance hall of his home.
as Sirius had stepped out of the fireplace into the entrance hall of his home.
“I think so. She’s not the type to neglect her duty just because she hates our
guts.” He shrugged.
guts.” He shrugged.
Hermione wasn’t quite certain of that, but nodded. Sirius did know the witch
better than she did. And thinking of the houngans… “We’ll need to learn spells
to deal with those bone walls,” she said. “Dispelling them takes too long.”
better than she did. And thinking of the houngans… “We’ll need to learn spells
to deal with those bone walls,” she said. “Dispelling them takes too long.”
“Do you think Reid’s still in Britain?”
She shrugged. “I think sooner or later, we’ll have to deal with houngans. I
want to be prepared.” Much better prepared than they had been for Reid.
want to be prepared.” Much better prepared than they had been for Reid.
“Alright. There might be something useful in our library. The Blacks fought
the houngans often enough — we had extensive holdings in Jamaica, before the
rebellion, and my ancestors wanted to get them back — and those involved in
the wars might have left some notes or records.” He smiled. “But between the
curses, and the deliberate chaos — supposedly to keep outsiders from learning
our secrets — it could take some time to check.”
the houngans often enough — we had extensive holdings in Jamaica, before the
rebellion, and my ancestors wanted to get them back — and those involved in
the wars might have left some notes or records.” He smiled. “But between the
curses, and the deliberate chaos — supposedly to keep outsiders from learning
our secrets — it could take some time to check.”
Hermione barely held back from voicing her opinion of people who treated books
like that. The Blacks deserved their reputation for that crime against
libraries alone, in her opinion.
like that. The Blacks deserved their reputation for that crime against
libraries alone, in her opinion.
He must have noticed, since he chuckled. “Don’t glare like that! Everyone
responsible has been dead for years, if not decades.”
responsible has been dead for years, if not decades.”
“We’ll also need to prepare for the attack on Dubois,” she said.
“Vivienne is working on that. She’s visiting her family.”
Which explained why the Veela wasn’t in Sirius’s arms right now, Hermione
thought. Then she told herself not to act like a hypocrite — she was quite
affectionate with Ron as well, after all. And would be even more so, if they
weren’t trying to be considerate of Harry’s feelings.
thought. Then she told herself not to act like a hypocrite — she was quite
affectionate with Ron as well, after all. And would be even more so, if they
weren’t trying to be considerate of Harry’s feelings.
“Are you going to join the others at Longbottom Manor?” Sirius’s question
interrupted her thoughts.
interrupted her thoughts.
She shook her head. “Harry, Ron and Ginny can handle that just fine. I can use
the time to start researching here.” She wasn’t in the mood to deal with
Neville, anyway. Handling Seamus was already enough of an annoyance.
the time to start researching here.” She wasn’t in the mood to deal with
Neville, anyway. Handling Seamus was already enough of an annoyance.
He looked at her for a moment, then nodded.
---
**Kent, Longbottom Manor, March 23rd, 1997**
“You went to attack a Death Eater hideout by yourself?” Ginny sounded as if
the only reason she wasn’t hexing Neville was the fact that he was already
hurt, Harry Potter thought.
the only reason she wasn’t hexing Neville was the fact that he was already
hurt, Harry Potter thought.
“I didn’t plan to attack them; I was just watching the place to find out who
was living there. Those two attacked me without warning,” Neville defended
himself. He was in his bed, propped up by cushions, and his left arm was
dangling from his wrecked shoulder. For someone who had taken Skele-Gro, he
was holding up well, in Harry’s opinion — he knew just how painful that potion
was.
was living there. Those two attacked me without warning,” Neville defended
himself. He was in his bed, propped up by cushions, and his left arm was
dangling from his wrecked shoulder. For someone who had taken Skele-Gro, he
was holding up well, in Harry’s opinion — he knew just how painful that potion
was.
“Mate, going out alone wasn’t the best decision,” Ron said.
“No one else would come with me. Even though they knew about this ‘telly
trouble’.”
trouble’.”
There was more than a hint of reproach there, Harry thought. And with some
reason, he added, feeling guilty. They now knew that the twins had told him
about that, but blown him off at the same time. If Neville had been killed in
that fight… “We called after the rally, but you had already left.”
reason, he added, feeling guilty. They now knew that the twins had told him
about that, but blown him off at the same time. If Neville had been killed in
that fight… “We called after the rally, but you had already left.”
“Sorry.” Neville looked away. “I wanted to do something. But I messed it up. I
don’t know how they spotted me — I was wearing muggle clothes.”
don’t know how they spotted me — I was wearing muggle clothes.”
Harry exchanged a glance with Ron. His friend was probably thinking of some of
the more outrageous styles they had seen worn. “Which clothes did you wear?”
Ron asked.
the more outrageous styles they had seen worn. “Which clothes did you wear?”
Ron asked.
“I went and bought the clothes I saw in that muggle newspaper.” Neville
pointed at his desk.
pointed at his desk.
Harry went over and picked up the issue of the Daily Mirror there. It was a
few weeks old. “Which ones?” he asked, flipping through it. There were a few
ads, but not for clothes.
few weeks old. “Which ones?” he asked, flipping through it. There were a few
ads, but not for clothes.
“The fashionable ones,” Neville answered. “In the article on the page next to
the one covering the ‘telly trouble’.”
the one covering the ‘telly trouble’.”
Harry found it. “Ah, I understand now.”
“What?”
He looked at the other three Gryffindors. “They were probably too posh for
that kind of pub.”
that kind of pub.”
“Too posh?” Neville sounded confused.
“Too expensive. It’s like someone trying to pass for a Knockturn Alley
resident while wearing Acromantula silk robes,” Harry explained.
resident while wearing Acromantula silk robes,” Harry explained.
“Ah.” Neville cringed. “I didn’t know that.”
“I wouldn’t have known that either,” Ginny said, “and I doubt that anyone who
didn’t grow up among muggles would have.” She glanced at Harry and Ron.
didn’t grow up among muggles would have.” She glanced at Harry and Ron.
“Yeah, mate,” Ron was quick to agree. Harry nodded.
“I still blew it. I had to flee before help arrived, and now the Death Eaters
hiding there are gone.” Neville sounded despondent.
hiding there are gone.” Neville sounded despondent.
Harry wasn’t quite certain if they had been Death Eaters, but pointing that
out wouldn’t help Neville either. “Well, there are other flats to check. Once
you’re healed.” Which shouldn’t take too long — their friend hadn’t lost all
the bones in his shoulder, after all.
out wouldn’t help Neville either. “Well, there are other flats to check. Once
you’re healed.” Which shouldn’t take too long — their friend hadn’t lost all
the bones in his shoulder, after all.
“We can ask Hermione if we can make it an exercise for the Resistance,” Ron
added, nodding. “The Death Eaters won’t stand a chance that way.”
added, nodding. “The Death Eaters won’t stand a chance that way.”
Neville’s smile made Harry feel even more guilty about forgetting about him
for a week.
for a week.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, March 23rd, 1997**
“They killed Theo.”
Upon hearing Astoria, Daphne Greengrass looked up from the Daily Prophet and
at her sister. The younger witch was glaring at her across the dining table,
her lunch untouched.
at her sister. The younger witch was glaring at her across the dining table,
her lunch untouched.
“I know,” Daphne said.
“You helped them kill him!” Astoria sounded as if Daphne had been the one to
wield the wand that had ended Theo’s life.
wield the wand that had ended Theo’s life.
“He was a damned fool who would have doomed us all. I saved us.”
“They wouldn’t have caught him without your help!” Her sister’s lips were
trembling — she was close to crying, Daphne realised.
trembling — she was close to crying, Daphne realised.
“They would have caught him.” Before Astoria could contradict her as she used
to when they were still little children, Daphne went on: ‘But even if they
hadn’t caught him, they would have killed us.’ She held up the Daily Prophet,
showing the pictures from Hogsmeade. “Did you see this? Did you see how many
of them were at the rally? What do you think would have happened if we hadn’t
told them about Theo?” She shook her head. “I’ll tell you what would have
happened: They would have come for us. Killed us in Theo’s place.”
to when they were still little children, Daphne went on: ‘But even if they
hadn’t caught him, they would have killed us.’ She held up the Daily Prophet,
showing the pictures from Hogsmeade. “Did you see this? Did you see how many
of them were at the rally? What do you think would have happened if we hadn’t
told them about Theo?” She shook her head. “I’ll tell you what would have
happened: They would have come for us. Killed us in Theo’s place.”
“But…” Astoria looked mulish.
“Don’t be a bloody fool!” Daphne snapped. Her sister gasped at her language,
and stared at her with wide eyes. ‘Have you forgotten what happened in the
war? How many of our friends who fought them are still alive? Huh? Do you
think they have forgotten what we did? Do you think they will accept the
verdict from the Wizengamot? The very same Wizengamot that they want to
replace?’ She was standing now, both hands gripping the table. “Do you think I
wanted to sell Theo out? Of course I didn’t! But he was endangering us.
Everyone knows that we fought for the Dark Lord. Who do you think everyone
suspected to be behind those attacks?”
and stared at her with wide eyes. ‘Have you forgotten what happened in the
war? How many of our friends who fought them are still alive? Huh? Do you
think they have forgotten what we did? Do you think they will accept the
verdict from the Wizengamot? The very same Wizengamot that they want to
replace?’ She was standing now, both hands gripping the table. “Do you think I
wanted to sell Theo out? Of course I didn’t! But he was endangering us.
Everyone knows that we fought for the Dark Lord. Who do you think everyone
suspected to be behind those attacks?”
“But… we weren’t!”
“Do you think anyone cared about that? They wanted blood! They wanted revenge!
If Theo hadn’t been stopped, they would have attacked us! We lost our parents!
We lost our friends! But we lost the bloody war! And if we keep fighting them,
we’ll lose our lives!”
If Theo hadn’t been stopped, they would have attacked us! We lost our parents!
We lost our friends! But we lost the bloody war! And if we keep fighting them,
we’ll lose our lives!”
Her sister was sobbing, her head lowered.
Daphne took a deep breath, then another, wiping some tears from the corners of
her eyes as she went round the table, towards Astoria. But before she reached
her sister, Astoria jumped up and ran out of the dining room.
her eyes as she went round the table, towards Astoria. But before she reached
her sister, Astoria jumped up and ran out of the dining room.
“Astoria!”
Her sister didn’t stop, but ran straight towards the stairs.
Daphne sighed and sat down on the next chair. She closed her eyes and rubbed a
few more tears away. She hadn’t liked betraying Theo either. But it had been a
damn stupid idiot or her family.
few more tears away. She hadn’t liked betraying Theo either. But it had been a
damn stupid idiot or her family.
And family always came first.
---
**Anotto Bay, Jamaica, March 23rd, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood wished he had a Daily Prophet. He needed to know what was
happening in Britain. But he couldn’t be tracked by owls, and the only place
on Jamaica where he might be able to buy an issue was Port Royal — provided
the houngans allowed the newspaper to be sold on their island. He’d probably
have to make do with a local newspaper, or maybe an American one.
happening in Britain. But he couldn’t be tracked by owls, and the only place
on Jamaica where he might be able to buy an issue was Port Royal — provided
the houngans allowed the newspaper to be sold on their island. He’d probably
have to make do with a local newspaper, or maybe an American one.
And he’d better wait another day to let things settle some more. He was being
hunted by the houngans, after all, and, even using Polyjuice to disguise
himself, entering the capital of Magical Jamaica was a tad dangerous. Not as
dangerous as attacking another manor, of course. Maybe he would try to kidnap
a houngan in Port Royal, once he was more familiar with the town.
hunted by the houngans, after all, and, even using Polyjuice to disguise
himself, entering the capital of Magical Jamaica was a tad dangerous. Not as
dangerous as attacking another manor, of course. Maybe he would try to kidnap
a houngan in Port Royal, once he was more familiar with the town.
Until then there were the books he had taken from Williams’s manor to study.
And plans to make about how he could send a letter by international owl post
without revealing his location.
And plans to make about how he could send a letter by international owl post
without revealing his location.
He had to keep up the pressure on the British Ministry, after all.
Chapter 56: Undercover Operations
=================================
The notifications of FFNet were bugged last week, so if you missed that
Chapter 55 was posted a week go, please read it before this chapter.
Chapter 55 was posted a week go, please read it before this chapter.
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 56: Undercover Operations**
*’The death of Theodore Nott was a greater shock to Wizarding Britain than one
would have expected given his role in the recently concluded hostilities. For
while he had been acquitted by the Wizengamot, it had also been proven that he
had fought for the Dark Lord — something for which many, especially
muggleborns, felt he deserved the death sentence. Violent acts of revenge — or
vigilante justice — were all too common in the period following the Battle of
Diagon Alley, although usually limited to returning muggleborns forcing out
the purebloods who had taken over their homes and business.*
would have expected given his role in the recently concluded hostilities. For
while he had been acquitted by the Wizengamot, it had also been proven that he
had fought for the Dark Lord — something for which many, especially
muggleborns, felt he deserved the death sentence. Violent acts of revenge — or
vigilante justice — were all too common in the period following the Battle of
Diagon Alley, although usually limited to returning muggleborns forcing out
the purebloods who had taken over their homes and business.*
*But there were several reasons that Nott’s death had such an effect. He was
killed by the Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn Resistance, with the
Ministry only being informed after the fact — a clear demonstration of who had
the real power in Britain at the time. Since he had been killed following an
attack on Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley, his death also served to
further erode the reputation of the Wizengamot. But almost more than anything
else, his death served to send a message to the Old Families still clinging to
their inherited power: The tide has turned.’*
killed by the Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn Resistance, with the
Ministry only being informed after the fact — a clear demonstration of who had
the real power in Britain at the time. Since he had been killed following an
attack on Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley, his death also served to
further erode the reputation of the Wizengamot. But almost more than anything
else, his death served to send a message to the Old Families still clinging to
their inherited power: The tide has turned.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 24th, 1997**
For a moment, he was back in Azkaban. For a moment, he felt the cold, the
pain, the desperation. For a moment, his escape, his exoneration, his new life
with Harry, his friends and his new lover, was but a dream, a mirage.
pain, the desperation. For a moment, his escape, his exoneration, his new life
with Harry, his friends and his new lover, was but a dream, a mirage.
Sirius Black shuddered. He wasn’t in Azkaban. He was in his home, in his bed.
Warm. Safe. He had been out of Azkaban for almost four years now, and yet he
still had nightmares and woke up afraid that he had gone mad and was still in
his cell.
Warm. Safe. He had been out of Azkaban for almost four years now, and yet he
still had nightmares and woke up afraid that he had gone mad and was still in
his cell.
Although the nightmares occurred less frequently these days. He hadn’t felt
the need to sleep as Padfoot for a long time now. Turning his head, he looked
at one of the reasons for his progress. Vivienne.
the need to sleep as Padfoot for a long time now. Turning his head, he looked
at one of the reasons for his progress. Vivienne.
His lover was still asleep, curled up next to him, one arm slung over his
chest, one leg crossing his under the sheet, her long hair splayed out behind
her on the pillow. He reached over to brush a strand that had fallen in her
face back behind her ear, and she started to mumble in her sleep in reaction
to his touch. A few seconds later, just enough time to for a quick
Breath-Refreshing Charm, she opened her eyes. “Cherie?”
chest, one leg crossing his under the sheet, her long hair splayed out behind
her on the pillow. He reached over to brush a strand that had fallen in her
face back behind her ear, and she started to mumble in her sleep in reaction
to his touch. A few seconds later, just enough time to for a quick
Breath-Refreshing Charm, she opened her eyes. “Cherie?”
“Good morning,” he said, smiling at her, before leaning over to press a kiss
on her brow.
on her brow.
“Bonjour,” she whispered, pulling herself closer to him with her arm and
sighing contentedly when she rested her head on his chest.
sighing contentedly when she rested her head on his chest.
He wished he could stay like this forever. He couldn’t — he had too many
important tasks to accomplish — but he could stay in bed a little while
longer.
important tasks to accomplish — but he could stay in bed a little while
longer.
---
“The location of Isabelle Dubois’s ’ome is a matter of record, so she is easy
to find,” Vivienne said an hour later, in the living room. “But it is
protected by old wards.” Sirius knew what that euphemism stood for: Wards
erected by blood sacrifices centuries ago, when such atrocities were legal, or
at least overlooked. Like the wards protecting his own home.
to find,” Vivienne said an hour later, in the living room. “But it is
protected by old wards.” Sirius knew what that euphemism stood for: Wards
erected by blood sacrifices centuries ago, when such atrocities were legal, or
at least overlooked. Like the wards protecting his own home.
“Anything special about them?” Bill asked.
Vivienne shook her head. “I do not know. I’m not a Curse-Breaker.”
“We can go through any wards, however old,” Hermione cut in, “but everyone
will know that it was us.”
will know that it was us.”
“That cannot be allowed!” Fleur said quickly. “The Duc will be forced to
declare war in response to such an open attack on one of ’is courtiers.”
declare war in response to such an open attack on one of ’is courtiers.”
Vivienne nodded in agreement.
Harry snorted. “He tolerates his courtiers supporting attacks in Britain.”
“Those are deniable actions,” Fleur said. “Done without ’is official
knowledge.”
knowledge.”
“He knew about your family’s intervention in the war, though.” Harry didn’t
seem willing to let this go too quickly. “It was even in the newspapers.”
seem willing to let this go too quickly. “It was even in the newspapers.”
“That was an act of retaliation against a criminal, not an attack on a member
of the government or the population of a foreign country.” Hermione earned
herself a glance from Harry, Sirius noted.
of the government or the population of a foreign country.” Hermione earned
herself a glance from Harry, Sirius noted.
He decided to intervene before they went off on that particular tangent. “The
morality of such a stance aside, we cannot risk war with France.” The French
were very prickly where their honour was concerned. ‘Which means that we need
to grab our little agent covertly. And given the politics of the Court, we
can’t have the Delacours or d’Aigles implicated either.’ They were too close
to Britain, with Fleur and Vivienne. “Any ideas?”
morality of such a stance aside, we cannot risk war with France.” The French
were very prickly where their honour was concerned. ‘Which means that we need
to grab our little agent covertly. And given the politics of the Court, we
can’t have the Delacours or d’Aigles implicated either.’ They were too close
to Britain, with Fleur and Vivienne. “Any ideas?”
“If her home was deserted for a few hours, I could take down the wards and we
could ambush her inside,” Bill said. “I would need some help for that,
though.” Fleur glared at him; the Veela would know the risks incurred by such
an action.
could ambush her inside,” Bill said. “I would need some help for that,
though.” Fleur glared at him; the Veela would know the risks incurred by such
an action.
“She won’t be living alone, no matter her affairs,” Vivienne said — a bit
cattily, Sirius thought.
cattily, Sirius thought.
“If we knew what explosives had been used in Jamaica, we could use the same
and frame whoever was behind that attack,” Ron said.
and frame whoever was behind that attack,” Ron said.
“Most think we’re responsible for the attack on Jamaica, so that would point
at us anyway.” Sirius shook his head. “Muggle means are out.”
at us anyway.” Sirius shook his head. “Muggle means are out.”
“Let’s just hope no one at the French Court thinks of getting rid of a rival
and framing us that way,” Harry muttered.
and framing us that way,” Harry muttered.
Sirius wasn’t the only one who glared at him.
“We’ll need to ambush her when she’s away from her home, then,” Hermione said
after a moment. “If she’s, ah, having as many affairs as you indicate, maybe
we could use one of her lovers’ homes for that? Or prepare a honey trap?”
after a moment. “If she’s, ah, having as many affairs as you indicate, maybe
we could use one of her lovers’ homes for that? Or prepare a honey trap?”
“A what?” Vivienne asked.
After Hermione and Sirius had explained the term, the Veela nodded. “That
could work. But we would need an attractive and ’armless looking bait.”
could work. But we would need an attractive and ’armless looking bait.”
Which excludes myself, Sirius thought. His roguish charm meant he was anything
but harmless-looking. Then he noticed that everyone was looking at him.
but harmless-looking. Then he noticed that everyone was looking at him.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 24th, 1997**
“An ‘exercise’ in the middle of London involving half-trained Resistance
recruits hunting purebloods in hiding. Right when the police are searching for
supposed bombers. That’s a recipe for disaster.”
recruits hunting purebloods in hiding. Right when the police are searching for
supposed bombers. That’s a recipe for disaster.”
Hermione’s tone made her feelings on the matter clear. She wasn’t wrong, Ron
Weasley knew. But he didn’t think his idea was bad either. “Neville going off
on his own isn’t a good thing either. And unlike him, the recruits can blend
in. Since we now have pictures of the attackers thanks to Neville’s memories,
they won’t be caught by surprise either.”
Weasley knew. But he didn’t think his idea was bad either. “Neville going off
on his own isn’t a good thing either. And unlike him, the recruits can blend
in. Since we now have pictures of the attackers thanks to Neville’s memories,
they won’t be caught by surprise either.”
“Unless they disguise themselves.” Hermione, sitting at the desk inside her
tent, pressed her lips together. “I know I’ve seen them before, but I can’t
recall where.”
tent, pressed her lips together. “I know I’ve seen them before, but I can’t
recall where.”
“It was probably at the rally,” he said. “Most muggleborns were there, at
least most of those who’d want to hunt Death Eaters in hiding.” He rubbed his
shoulder and winced at the twinge of pain that caused — today’s training had
been rough again. Harry suspected that the other recruits were a little
resentful of the numerous absences of the two ‘auxiliaries’, and took it out
in training. Ron thought that the Resistance simply overestimated them.
least most of those who’d want to hunt Death Eaters in hiding.” He rubbed his
shoulder and winced at the twinge of pain that caused — today’s training had
been rough again. Harry suspected that the other recruits were a little
resentful of the numerous absences of the two ‘auxiliaries’, and took it out
in training. Ron thought that the Resistance simply overestimated them.
“If they were at the rally, then they went through security, which would mean
that they were not disguised, nor under the Imperius, and we would be certain
that they were actually muggleborns hunting supposed Death Eaters, and not
purebloods in hiding,” she pointed out. ‘Even Neville didn’t stick out that
much, and he has no experience with muggles.’ She stood up and started to
pace. “The last thing we need is another fight in a muggle area involving
muggleborns. Those bigots in the ICW are just waiting for that so they can
claim that we are a threat to the Statute of Secrecy.”
that they were not disguised, nor under the Imperius, and we would be certain
that they were actually muggleborns hunting supposed Death Eaters, and not
purebloods in hiding,” she pointed out. ‘Even Neville didn’t stick out that
much, and he has no experience with muggles.’ She stood up and started to
pace. “The last thing we need is another fight in a muggle area involving
muggleborns. Those bigots in the ICW are just waiting for that so they can
claim that we are a threat to the Statute of Secrecy.”
“We could use firearms, though.”
“That would cause a lot of trouble with the muggle police. We have to hope
that they don’t make the connection to the warded flats interfering with
television reception, or they’ll start searching, and once they start
encountering the Muggle-Repelling Charms, someone’s bound to start noticing
that something’s wrong.” Hermione sighed. She sat down on the bed next to him.
“But we might have to take that risk anyway — if the ICW gets an excuse to
intervene…”
that they don’t make the connection to the warded flats interfering with
television reception, or they’ll start searching, and once they start
encountering the Muggle-Repelling Charms, someone’s bound to start noticing
that something’s wrong.” Hermione sighed. She sat down on the bed next to him.
“But we might have to take that risk anyway — if the ICW gets an excuse to
intervene…”
Ron shuddered. He had heard tales about the African intervention. “So…?”
She nodded. “We have to be very careful, though.”
“We’re always careful,” he said. “Unless we’re being Gryffindors.”
That got a chuckle out of her, and she leaned into his side, her head resting
on his shoulder. Then she sighed again. “It seems to never end. As soon as we
have one problem solved, or at least a plan to deal with it, another appears.
Not even killing Voldemort stopped it.”
on his shoulder. Then she sighed again. “It seems to never end. As soon as we
have one problem solved, or at least a plan to deal with it, another appears.
Not even killing Voldemort stopped it.”
“Killing him ended the war in Britain, though,” Ron said without hesitating.
“We might not be doing as well as we could, but things could be a lot worse.
We just have to keep going until there are no more problems. No more serious
problems, I mean.”
“We might not be doing as well as we could, but things could be a lot worse.
We just have to keep going until there are no more problems. No more serious
problems, I mean.”
She pulled back a bit to look at him, and he smiled. “We won’t lose.”
Hermione slowly nodded and hugged him. He wrapped his arms around her and took
a deep breath.
a deep breath.
They would get through this.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 25th, 1997**
Sirius Black frowned as he put down his cup next to the Daily Prophet the owl
had just delivered. Remus was being stupid.
had just delivered. Remus was being stupid.
“All I’m saying is that this is a dangerous undertaking. After Nott’s death,
Malfoy and Runcorn will be on their guard, and Daphne and Tracey will be under
suspicion.” Remus stabbed his rashers almost violently, then stuffed them into
his mouth.
Malfoy and Runcorn will be on their guard, and Daphne and Tracey will be under
suspicion.” Remus stabbed his rashers almost violently, then stuffed them into
his mouth.
The full moon had been yesterday, so Sirius’s friend was at his worst —
ragged, tired and easily angered. Sirius would joke that he was like a witch
on her period, but he still remembered how Lily had made him regret making
that joke in their seventh year. The Dementors hadn’t touched that memory, of
course. Still, some things had to be said, even if Sirius might have to be a
little more diplomatic than his usual frank self.
ragged, tired and easily angered. Sirius would joke that he was like a witch
on her period, but he still remembered how Lily had made him regret making
that joke in their seventh year. The Dementors hadn’t touched that memory, of
course. Still, some things had to be said, even if Sirius might have to be a
little more diplomatic than his usual frank self.
“They’re Slytherins. They know how to lie, and how to deal with scum. It comes
from spending so much time in a den of backstabbing snakes. And, of course,
from being backstabbing snakes themselves.”
from spending so much time in a den of backstabbing snakes. And, of course,
from being backstabbing snakes themselves.”
“They’re barely adults,” Remus said. “And you’re sending them to deal with
wizards who have decades of experience.”
wizards who have decades of experience.”
“They’re bloody Death Eaters! They’re only helping us because they want to
save themselves. So, let’s make them earn their pardon.” It was better to risk
enemies than allies, much less family and friends, Sirius knew.
save themselves. So, let’s make them earn their pardon.” It was better to risk
enemies than allies, much less family and friends, Sirius knew.
“Technically, they were acquitted. They do not need a pardon.” Remus was being
pedantic again. A good sign, so close to the full moon.
pedantic again. A good sign, so close to the full moon.
“You know what I mean. If they manage to get information we can use to deal
with Malfoy and Runcorn, we’ll tell the muggleborns that they were spying for
us. That should keep them from getting killed.” A damned good deal for the two
Death Eaters, in Sirius’s opinion.
with Malfoy and Runcorn, we’ll tell the muggleborns that they were spying for
us. That should keep them from getting killed.” A damned good deal for the two
Death Eaters, in Sirius’s opinion.
“And if they get killed trying to spy for us?”
He shrugged. “Then we’ll have a pretext to go after Malfoy and Runcorn.”
Sirius grabbed another scone and pulled it apart. Then he noticed that Remus
was growling. “What?”
Sirius grabbed another scone and pulled it apart. Then he noticed that Remus
was growling. “What?”
His friend shook his head. “Nothing,” he spat, then stood up and left the
kitchen.
kitchen.
Sirius blinked, then turned to Vivienne. The witch had been reading the
Tribune Magique and hadn’t said a word during the argument. She had been
paying attention, though, since she answered his silent question. “I think ’e
might be fond of them.”
Tribune Magique and hadn’t said a word during the argument. She had been
paying attention, though, since she answered his silent question. “I think ’e
might be fond of them.”
“What?”
---
“Moony!” Sirius caught up to his friend in front of the stairs leading up to
the first floor.
the first floor.
“What?” Remus turned and looked at him with narrowed eyes.
“Are you in love with the snakes?”
His friend gaped at him. “What?”
Sirius was relieved at seeing his surprise. If the two Death Eaters had
managed to seduce Moony… He sighed. “Just checking.”
managed to seduce Moony… He sighed. “Just checking.”
Remus blinked, then clenched his teeth. “Are you trying to say that the only
possible reason for my objection to risking the lives of Greengrass and Davis
would be a possible infatuation with one of them?”
possible reason for my objection to risking the lives of Greengrass and Davis
would be a possible infatuation with one of them?”
He nodded. “Of course.”
“Of course you would.” Remus sighed. “For the record: No, I’m not in love with
either of them. Merlin’s beard, they’re still kids!”
either of them. Merlin’s beard, they’re still kids!”
“They’re adults,” Sirius pointed out.
“You know what I mean.”
Remus was baring his teeth again, he noticed. He didn’t actually know what his
friend meant, but he nodded anyway. “That doesn’t change the fact that they
joined the Dark Lord and tried to kill our family and friends.”
friend meant, but he nodded anyway. “That doesn’t change the fact that they
joined the Dark Lord and tried to kill our family and friends.”
“And they came to us when they heard about Nott’s plans to attack muggleborns
again.”
again.”
“Because they wanted to save their own skins,” Sirius retorted.
“From what I can tell, they’re sick of the war. They wouldn’t be the first
kids who made a serious mistake that they later regretted.”
kids who made a serious mistake that they later regretted.”
Sirius hissed. “That was different! I didn’t join the Death Eaters! Snape
did!”
did!”
“Yes, he did. Later.”
“I wouldn’t bet on that. He was hanging out with all the Death Eaters,” Sirius
spat.
spat.
Remus shook his head. “If you don’t start giving people a chance to change
we’ll never have peace.”
we’ll never have peace.”
Sirius remembered Dumbledore’s final message. But this was different. “I’m
giving them a chance to change. But I’d rather risk them than Nymphadora.”
Maybe mentioning the witch who had the hots for Remus would make him see
reason.
giving them a chance to change. But I’d rather risk them than Nymphadora.”
Maybe mentioning the witch who had the hots for Remus would make him see
reason.
His friend looked at him, baring his teeth for a moment. “Don’t try to get
them killed.” Then he turned and walked away.
them killed.” Then he turned and walked away.
“I’m not,” Sirius told Remus’s back, loud enough so his friend would hear it.
But he wasn’t about to sacrifice anyone else for them either.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, March 25th, 1997**
“Dear, there are a few strands escaping your braid. And your makeup needs a
tiny bit of touching up.”
tiny bit of touching up.”
Daphne Greengrass looked at her image in the mirror in her room, ignoring its
vapid comments. She looked just like a friend of Theo should look so soon
after his death: wearing her best robes, but not quite perfectly coiffed and
styled. Nervous and afraid she might be the next victim, but trying to hide it
and put on a brave face. Just what Malfoy and Runcorn would expect.
vapid comments. She looked just like a friend of Theo should look so soon
after his death: wearing her best robes, but not quite perfectly coiffed and
styled. Nervous and afraid she might be the next victim, but trying to hide it
and put on a brave face. Just what Malfoy and Runcorn would expect.
Of course, she was nervous and afraid. If those two wizards suspected
anything, it wouldn’t end well for her. They wouldn’t disappear her while she
was a guest as that would make them the prime suspects, but it would only take
one Imperius to send her to her death in an attack on Diagon Alley or
Hogsmeade. She could almost hear Malfoy comment on how distressed she had
been, obviously trying to avenge her friend Nott. They’d even make her a
martyr for their cause.
anything, it wouldn’t end well for her. They wouldn’t disappear her while she
was a guest as that would make them the prime suspects, but it would only take
one Imperius to send her to her death in an attack on Diagon Alley or
Hogsmeade. She could almost hear Malfoy comment on how distressed she had
been, obviously trying to avenge her friend Nott. They’d even make her a
martyr for their cause.
Shaking her head, she left her room. Tracey would arrive soon. In the hallway
she glanced at the door to Astoria’s room. Her sister had spent the last few
days mostly in there, only emerging for meals. She hoped that that would
change, but there wasn’t much she could do about it. Not right now.
she glanced at the door to Astoria’s room. Her sister had spent the last few
days mostly in there, only emerging for meals. She hoped that that would
change, but there wasn’t much she could do about it. Not right now.
Tracey hadn’t yet arrived, but Tonks was in the entrance hall. The
metamorphmagus was wearing the face of an unknown witch and twirling her wand
in her hand. A subtle reminder that Daphne couldn’t run, or so she thought. At
least the werewolf had already left. Daphne shuddered — the full moon would be
rising soon, and if the beast were still in her home…
metamorphmagus was wearing the face of an unknown witch and twirling her wand
in her hand. A subtle reminder that Daphne couldn’t run, or so she thought. At
least the werewolf had already left. Daphne shuddered — the full moon would be
rising soon, and if the beast were still in her home…
“Nervous?” Tonks asked, mistaking her reaction.
“Yes,” Daphne answered, in a flat tone. She didn’t want to make idle
conversation right now.
conversation right now.
“You don’t have to be nervous. If they suspect you, then they’ll likely
interrogate you before they do anything incriminating. And in that case,
they’ll find out that we know where you are, so they can’t make you
disappear.” Tonks smiled in a way that probably was meant to be reassuring.
But the half-blood wasn’t the one visiting Malfoy and Runcorn. She wasn’t the
one risking her life.
interrogate you before they do anything incriminating. And in that case,
they’ll find out that we know where you are, so they can’t make you
disappear.” Tonks smiled in a way that probably was meant to be reassuring.
But the half-blood wasn’t the one visiting Malfoy and Runcorn. She wasn’t the
one risking her life.
But Daphne didn’t point that out. Instead she simply nodded and hoped the
other witch would stop talking. She already knew all that.
other witch would stop talking. She already knew all that.
Her hope was in vain, though — the metamorphmagus continued to prattle on.
“Given your supposed friendship with Nott, it won’t be suspicious that you’ll
be carrying a portkey either. Just remember to clear the wardline before you
use it, go through the garden for that, if you can, the plants will help break
the line of sight.”
“Given your supposed friendship with Nott, it won’t be suspicious that you’ll
be carrying a portkey either. Just remember to clear the wardline before you
use it, go through the garden for that, if you can, the plants will help break
the line of sight.”
“Yes,” Daphne hissed through clenched teeth.
“I’m just trying to help,” Tonks said. “I’ve got some experience with such
missions.”
missions.”
Fortunately, Tracey arrived and the Auror shut up in favour of glaring at
Daphne’s friend.
Daphne’s friend.
“Are you ready?” Daphne asked.
“Would I have arrived if I wasn’t?” Tracey smirked, but Daphne could see that
she was nervous as well. “Did Professor Lupin leave already?” she added,
looking around.
she was nervous as well. “Did Professor Lupin leave already?” she added,
looking around.
“He returned home,” Tonks said.
Tracey acted as if she were disappointed — she wasn’t as dumb as to actually
want to see a werewolf right before the full moon, Daphne knew — then
shrugged. “We’ll see him in the morning, then.”
want to see a werewolf right before the full moon, Daphne knew — then
shrugged. “We’ll see him in the morning, then.”
“Unless he has something more important to do.” The Auror’s smile was about as
honest as their upcoming visit, Daphne thought.
honest as their upcoming visit, Daphne thought.
“Well…”
Tracey was about to needle the Auror some more, but Daphne cut her off. “Let’s
go!”
go!”
She really wasn’t in the mood to listen to the two witches talk about the
damned werewolf again. Tracey was taking her teasing too far, in Daphne’s
opinion.
damned werewolf again. Tracey was taking her teasing too far, in Daphne’s
opinion.
---
**South Downs National Park, Hampshire, Britain, March 25th, 1997**
“Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis. I’m glad you came.”
Malfoy sounded as charming as usual, Daphne Greengrass noted when she bowed to
their host. If Theo’s death had made an impression on him, then he didn’t show
it.
their host. If Theo’s death had made an impression on him, then he didn’t show
it.
“Thank you for your invitation,” she said.
“Please follow me to the salon.” He gestured towards the door.
There were fewer guests in Malfoy’s home this time, Daphne thought as she and
Tracey entered the salon. Philius Runcorn was there, which they had expected,
but a number of his and Malfoy’s supporters in the Wizengamot were absent. She
grabbed a glass of wine on the way to the gathering, only briefly hesitating.
Their host wouldn’t have tampered with the wine, she told herself. Dosing a
guest with Veritaserum would be such a hostile act, it would not only turn her
and Tracey into enemies, but alienate his other allies. That was not something
you did to test a potential ally, but a means to interrogate a prisoner. And
if their cover had been blown, then such a ruse wouldn’t have been needed in
the first place — they’d have been ambushed on arrival.
Tracey entered the salon. Philius Runcorn was there, which they had expected,
but a number of his and Malfoy’s supporters in the Wizengamot were absent. She
grabbed a glass of wine on the way to the gathering, only briefly hesitating.
Their host wouldn’t have tampered with the wine, she told herself. Dosing a
guest with Veritaserum would be such a hostile act, it would not only turn her
and Tracey into enemies, but alienate his other allies. That was not something
you did to test a potential ally, but a means to interrogate a prisoner. And
if their cover had been blown, then such a ruse wouldn’t have been needed in
the first place — they’d have been ambushed on arrival.
“Ah! Good evening, Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis!” Runcorn bowed a bit
awkwardly, his age hampering his manners. “I’m very glad to see you both at
our gathering here.”
awkwardly, his age hampering his manners. “I’m very glad to see you both at
our gathering here.”
“Good evening, Mister Runcorn,” Daphne said.
“We were just discussing the most recent tragedy. I offer you my heartfelt
condolences for the loss of your friend.”
condolences for the loss of your friend.”
Runcorn sounded genuine, but any politician with his experience would, Daphne
knew. She nodded, taking care to appear appropriately sad. She nodded again
when the six other Wizengamot members hastened to follow Runcorn’s example.
“Thank you. It’s a relief to hear such sentiments. Theo was the last of our
group of friends from Hogwarts. Others we’d have counted as friends distanced
themselves from us as soon as they heard of his death.”
knew. She nodded, taking care to appear appropriately sad. She nodded again
when the six other Wizengamot members hastened to follow Runcorn’s example.
“Thank you. It’s a relief to hear such sentiments. Theo was the last of our
group of friends from Hogwarts. Others we’d have counted as friends distanced
themselves from us as soon as they heard of his death.”
“The rats are abandoning the ship,” Tracey muttered with a frown.
“Recent events have caused some of our acquaintances to reconsider their
support,” Malfoy admitted. “It’s not a great loss overall, given how fickle
they have revealed themselves to be.”
support,” Malfoy admitted. “It’s not a great loss overall, given how fickle
they have revealed themselves to be.”
Tracey snorted. “Even the gold of cowards would have been useful.”
“Not to mention that should they not just distance themselves from us, but try
to curry favour with our enemies, their votes and influence could be
decisive,” Daphne added. Black was close to getting the majority he needed to
‘reform’ the Wizengamot.
to curry favour with our enemies, their votes and influence could be
decisive,” Daphne added. Black was close to getting the majority he needed to
‘reform’ the Wizengamot.
“I can assure you that there is no shortage of gold. Our coffers are full, and
we have friends with more to spend.” Malfoy smiled. “The situation in the
Wizengamot is somewhat more precarious, I admit, but by no means hopeless.
Even though we may have lost some supporters, they have not switched sides.”
we have friends with more to spend.” Malfoy smiled. “The situation in the
Wizengamot is somewhat more precarious, I admit, but by no means hopeless.
Even though we may have lost some supporters, they have not switched sides.”
“Not yet, you mean,” Tracey said. “They will just wait long enough so they
won’t appear completely spineless before sucking up to Black and his allies.”
won’t appear completely spineless before sucking up to Black and his allies.”
Daphne glanced at her friend. Tracey was overdoing it, in her opinion. She had
a reputation for being blunt and outspoken, but if she was too obvious… “The
opportunists had already changed their allegiance before the… latest events,”
she said. “I think that those who are now distancing themselves from our cause
are doing so out of fear for themselves and their families.”
a reputation for being blunt and outspoken, but if she was too obvious… “The
opportunists had already changed their allegiance before the… latest events,”
she said. “I think that those who are now distancing themselves from our cause
are doing so out of fear for themselves and their families.”
“Exactly!” Runcorn smiled widely. “Since they are motivated by fear, they will
return to our side as soon as they realise that the mudbloods will not spare
them no matter what they do.”
return to our side as soon as they realise that the mudbloods will not spare
them no matter what they do.”
“Unless they turn blood traitor,” Tracey said.
“The mudbloods will not accept them on their side,” Runcorn said.
“They don’t have to. Black will promise them safety for themselves and their
families,” Daphne retorted, “in exchange for their support.” She scoffed,
remembering how Black had treated her and Tracey.
families,” Daphne retorted, “in exchange for their support.” She scoffed,
remembering how Black had treated her and Tracey.
“Black!” Runcorn muttered the name as if it was a curse. “If his family could
see him, betraying everything they stood for!”
see him, betraying everything they stood for!”
“He and the other blood traitors are allied with the mudbloods, though. And so
other purebloods, even from the Old Families, will try to join them as well,”
Daphne said. Which was why she and her friend had contacted him in the first
place. If they had known what he planned… well, they’d still have done it. It
was their only chance to survive this war.
other purebloods, even from the Old Families, will try to join them as well,”
Daphne said. Which was why she and her friend had contacted him in the first
place. If they had known what he planned… well, they’d still have done it. It
was their only chance to survive this war.
“Short of the mudbloods cursing Black in the back, that won’t change,” Tracey
added with a sneer. “They’ll play nice until they have taken over the Ministry
and the Wizengamot. And then it’ll be too late for the turncoats. They’ll be
helpless.”
added with a sneer. “They’ll play nice until they have taken over the Ministry
and the Wizengamot. And then it’ll be too late for the turncoats. They’ll be
helpless.”
“At least Theo died with his wand in hand,” Daphne said. “Unlike others.”
Malfoy frowned. “Do you intend to follow his example?”
Tracey stared at him. “They won’t take us prisoner again. We’ll die as witches
before we let them murder us as if we were muggles.”
before we let them murder us as if we were muggles.”
Daphne saw Runcorn exchange a glance with Malfoy, and for a moment she feared
that they had seen through her act. Tracey was just too obvious, she thought,
tensing while she glanced around. The salon had a door to the porch of the
house, but they wouldn’t reach it with eight wizards attacking them. And even
if she and Tracey managed to surprise them, they wouldn’t be able to beat all
of them. Not in close quarters. They could only hope that their portkeys would
work.
that they had seen through her act. Tracey was just too obvious, she thought,
tensing while she glanced around. The salon had a door to the porch of the
house, but they wouldn’t reach it with eight wizards attacking them. And even
if she and Tracey managed to surprise them, they wouldn’t be able to beat all
of them. Not in close quarters. They could only hope that their portkeys would
work.
Runcorn, though, smiled. “A very brave stance, worthy of your lineage. But our
situation is not quite as dire as you make it out to be. Our enemies are more
vulnerable than you think.”
situation is not quite as dire as you make it out to be. Our enemies are more
vulnerable than you think.”
Daphne hoped that her relief at not having been revealed as a spy would be
mistaken for hope of winning against the mudbloods.
mistaken for hope of winning against the mudbloods.
Malfoy nodded. “Dumbledore built an alliance between his Order of the Phoenix,
the Mudblood Resistance and the Ministry which barely survived his own death,
and broke apart after the Dark Lord was killed. Black claims he inherited the
Order’s allegiance, but he’s no Dumbledore — he won’t be able to hold it
together. He’s too radical, and too short-sighted.”
the Mudblood Resistance and the Ministry which barely survived his own death,
and broke apart after the Dark Lord was killed. Black claims he inherited the
Order’s allegiance, but he’s no Dumbledore — he won’t be able to hold it
together. He’s too radical, and too short-sighted.”
“He’s rich, though,” Tracey cut in. “And he’s the godfather of the
Boy-Who-Lived.”
Boy-Who-Lived.”
And, Daphne added in her mind, Black was certainly ruthless enough to lead the
Order.
Order.
Malfoy frowned, but quickly smoothed his expression. “Not all of those who
followed Dumbledore and opposed the Dark Lord will support turning the country
over to the mudbloods, which is what Black intends to do. They will not need
more than to see the mudbloods’ true nature to abandon him.” He smiled. “And
while Black tries to portray Potter as the next Dumbledore, anyone can see
that the boy’s just his mouthpiece. He is not even old enough to sit in the
Wizengamot yet.”
followed Dumbledore and opposed the Dark Lord will support turning the country
over to the mudbloods, which is what Black intends to do. They will not need
more than to see the mudbloods’ true nature to abandon him.” He smiled. “And
while Black tries to portray Potter as the next Dumbledore, anyone can see
that the boy’s just his mouthpiece. He is not even old enough to sit in the
Wizengamot yet.”
“He did kill the Dark Lord, though,” Daphne said. “And that means a lot to the
public.” Others among the guests nodded.
public.” Others among the guests nodded.
“The public does not matter as long as we hold the Wizengamot.” Runcorn nodded
as if he truly believed that. Fawley and Avery didn’t seem to share his views,
though.
as if he truly believed that. Fawley and Avery didn’t seem to share his views,
though.
Tracey snorted. “The Wizengamot won’t matter if a mudblood mob storms the
Ministry.” That made half the others pale. Not Malfoy, though.
Ministry.” That made half the others pale. Not Malfoy, though.
“That is a risk, but Black knows that if he condones such an atrocity, he will
lose any support among purebloods,” Malfoy said. ‘And no matter his actions,
he is a pureblood of an Old Family; the mudbloods will not follow him.’ He
shook his head. “No. Black knows that in order to take over Britain, he needs
to keep the mudbloods in check until he is firmly installed as the Chief
Warlock, with a crony as his pet minister.”
lose any support among purebloods,” Malfoy said. ‘And no matter his actions,
he is a pureblood of an Old Family; the mudbloods will not follow him.’ He
shook his head. “No. Black knows that in order to take over Britain, he needs
to keep the mudbloods in check until he is firmly installed as the Chief
Warlock, with a crony as his pet minister.”
“Black’s very close to Granger,” Daphne said. “Who does all she can to keep
the mudbloods in check.”
the mudbloods in check.”
“He might appear to be close to the girl,” Malfoy said with a sly smile, “but
that is only thanks to Potter. And I have it on good authority that Granger
broke up with Potter in favour of Weasley’s youngest son. That sort of thing
tends to put a strain on any friendship, doubly so among teenagers.”
that is only thanks to Potter. And I have it on good authority that Granger
broke up with Potter in favour of Weasley’s youngest son. That sort of thing
tends to put a strain on any friendship, doubly so among teenagers.”
“You’re not basing your hopes on Potter’s troubled love life, I hope,” Tracey
said with a barely-hidden sneer.
said with a barely-hidden sneer.
“Of course not!” Runcorn said.
He seemed to be on the verge of expanding on that, but Malfoy smoothly cut him
off. “Black’s family life, or lack thereof, is important, though. He’s taken a
Veela as his lover, and lives with a werewolf. People were willing to overlook
that during the war, but now?” He scoffed. “Some are already wondering if the
Boy-Who-Lived should be raised in such an environment.”
off. “Black’s family life, or lack thereof, is important, though. He’s taken a
Veela as his lover, and lives with a werewolf. People were willing to overlook
that during the war, but now?” He scoffed. “Some are already wondering if the
Boy-Who-Lived should be raised in such an environment.”
Daphne didn’t have to fake her shudder and revulsion at the thought of living
with a werewolf as others chimed in, and the discussion turned to ways of
spreading such sentiment among the British wizards and witches.
with a werewolf as others chimed in, and the discussion turned to ways of
spreading such sentiment among the British wizards and witches.
She just hoped the others would not realise that Tracey was sneering at them,
and not at the scandalous relationship between Black and the werewolf.
and not at the scandalous relationship between Black and the werewolf.
---
“Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis. Might you stay a few minutes? There is a small
matter to discuss.”
matter to discuss.”
Daphne immediately tensed and turned away from where she was waiting behind
Fawley at the fireplace. “Of course.” Surreptitiously, she glanced around.
Malfoy and Runcorn were standing there, seeing the guests off. Tracey was next
to her, but she couldn’t see anyone else. She hadn’t cast a
Human-presence-revealing Spell, though, and even a former summer house would
have hidden passages for house-elves and other servants. Just because she
couldn’t spot an ambush didn’t mean she was safe.
Fawley at the fireplace. “Of course.” Surreptitiously, she glanced around.
Malfoy and Runcorn were standing there, seeing the guests off. Tracey was next
to her, but she couldn’t see anyone else. She hadn’t cast a
Human-presence-revealing Spell, though, and even a former summer house would
have hidden passages for house-elves and other servants. Just because she
couldn’t spot an ambush didn’t mean she was safe.
She didn’t let that thought show on her face, of course. “Shall we return to
the salon, then?” They’d have an easier time escaping from there, instead of
from the entrance hall. Unless they were planning to ambush her and Tracey
there.
the salon, then?” They’d have an easier time escaping from there, instead of
from the entrance hall. Unless they were planning to ambush her and Tracey
there.
“By all means.” Runcorn stepped aside to let them enter first. Daphne couldn’t
tell if he had been surprised, or not. She glanced at Tracey. If this was a
trap, they’d be ready. For whatever good it would do them.
tell if he had been surprised, or not. She glanced at Tracey. If this was a
trap, they’d be ready. For whatever good it would do them.
No one attacked her when stepped into the salon, but she didn’t relax.
“What did you want to talk about?” Tracey demanded as soon as the two wizards
had joined them.
had joined them.
Malfoy cleared his throat. “Mister Nott mentioned a few weeks ago that he had
a falling-out with you two. He didn’t go into details, but he said you had
lost your nerve. Tonight, you seemed rather… more determined.”
a falling-out with you two. He didn’t go into details, but he said you had
lost your nerve. Tonight, you seemed rather… more determined.”
Daphne nodded. “Of course Theo would have said that.” She shook her head in
apparent regret. “He came to us, some time ago, with a barely thought-out plan
to attack muggleborns.”
apparent regret. “He came to us, some time ago, with a barely thought-out plan
to attack muggleborns.”
Tracey scoffed. “He basically wanted to continue doing what hadn’t worked
before. We didn’t feel that suicidal.”
before. We didn’t feel that suicidal.”
“So you expected him to be killed?” Malfoy’s smile didn’t reach his eyes.
“It did not come as a surprise,” Daphne said. “But we hoped that… we would be
proven wrong.”
proven wrong.”
“And yet you have now chosen to pick up the fight? Your comments certainly
gave that impression.”
gave that impression.”
Tracey shook her head. “We haven’t chosen to fight; we have realised that we
do not have a choice. They didn’t inform the Ministry, but went after Theo
themselves. They didn’t capture him either — they simply murdered him and
everyone else in his home.”
do not have a choice. They didn’t inform the Ministry, but went after Theo
themselves. They didn’t capture him either — they simply murdered him and
everyone else in his home.”
“And everybody knows that Theo was a friend of ours,” Daphne added.
She caught Malfoy glancing at Runcorn and nodding. “I see. I wish I could
disagree with your conclusion, but I fear you are correct: The mudbloods will
not let us live, should they win this struggle.” He paused for a moment, then
continued: “And I even suspect that no matter what you do or don’t do, the
mudbloods will attempt to frame you.”
disagree with your conclusion, but I fear you are correct: The mudbloods will
not let us live, should they win this struggle.” He paused for a moment, then
continued: “And I even suspect that no matter what you do or don’t do, the
mudbloods will attempt to frame you.”
“We’re more cautious than Theo was,” Daphne said.
“That is wise,” Runcorn said. He glanced at Malfoy, and for a moment, Daphne
thought this would be it — that the two wizards would take them into their
confidence. She was wrong, though.
thought this would be it — that the two wizards would take them into their
confidence. She was wrong, though.
“I’m glad we cleared this up,” Malfoy said, instead. “These are very troubled
times. We have more support than might be apparent, but with the current
balance of power favouring the mudbloods, we need to move very cautiously.”
times. We have more support than might be apparent, but with the current
balance of power favouring the mudbloods, we need to move very cautiously.”
“We’re not about to fly off and cast curses at mudbloods in Diagon Alley,”
Daphne said. “That would only court disaster. The Ministry can’t stop the the
mudbloods should they start a rampage — or launch a coup.”
Daphne said. “That would only court disaster. The Ministry can’t stop the the
mudbloods should they start a rampage — or launch a coup.”
“The Ministry can’t, but they are not alone,” Runcorn said.
Tracey snorted. “The Old Families haven’t enough power to stop the mudbloods
either.”
either.”
“Not yet, maybe,” Runcorn said.
“Theo was a fool to attack the Weasleys’ shop.” Daphne sighed. “If the
mudbloods had gone out of control in response…” she trailed off, pressing her
lips together.
mudbloods had gone out of control in response…” she trailed off, pressing her
lips together.
“We can but hope that others will not follow his example,” Malfoy said,
looking at them.
looking at them.
“We’ll defend ourselves if attacked, naturally, but we won’t attack anyone.
Not until we’re certain that it will not do us more harm than good.”
Not until we’re certain that it will not do us more harm than good.”
Daphne nodded at Malfoy, who nodded back. She still had no proof of his
involvement in the attacks, but she hoped that she had at least gained his
trust.
involvement in the attacks, but she hoped that she had at least gained his
trust.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 26th, 1997**
“What do you have for me, Pius?” Amelia Bones asked as soon as the Head of the
DMLE entered her office.
DMLE entered her office.
Pius waited until he had closed the door to answer. “The investigation into
the incident in Islington has not uncovered anything new. Unfortunately, any
witnesses were obliviated before we could question them.”
the incident in Islington has not uncovered anything new. Unfortunately, any
witnesses were obliviated before we could question them.”
Amelia made a dismissive gesture with her hand. Witnesses were unreliable to
begin with, and muggle witnesses doubly so. They couldn’t donate memories for
Pensieves. “I meant something new, not something we already knew.”
begin with, and muggle witnesses doubly so. They couldn’t donate memories for
Pensieves. “I meant something new, not something we already knew.”
“Two batches of Exploding Fluid were found in Nott’s home. One was matched to
the attack on Diagon Alley on March 4th, and the other to the attack on
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes on March 21st.”
the attack on Diagon Alley on March 4th, and the other to the attack on
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes on March 21st.”
So the Unspeakables had finally done their job, Amelia thought. “Two different
batches of Exploding Fluid?”
batches of Exploding Fluid?”
“Yes.”
“Was there enough of either batch for another attack?” She narrowed her eyes.
He had to have considered that as well.
He had to have considered that as well.
“Yes.” Pius’s expression didn’t change.
“So, either he had multiple sources of the fluid, or the second batch was
planted in his home,” Amelia spelled it out. If it was Black then he would
have covered his tracks. If she still had an Auror Corps worthy of that name,
if she could spare a few experienced Aurors to look into the sources for the
fluid… if, if, if. She shook her head. Even if she managed to find evidence
that linked anyone to the planted fluid, she didn’t think the Wizengamot would
find them guilty. Not if they worked for Black.
planted in his home,” Amelia spelled it out. If it was Black then he would
have covered his tracks. If she still had an Auror Corps worthy of that name,
if she could spare a few experienced Aurors to look into the sources for the
fluid… if, if, if. She shook her head. Even if she managed to find evidence
that linked anyone to the planted fluid, she didn’t think the Wizengamot would
find them guilty. Not if they worked for Black.
“There also was evidence that an Imperius Curse had been recently cast on
Nott.” Pius met her eyes.
Nott.” Pius met her eyes.
Amelia narrowed her eyes. That would support the theory that Nott had been set
up — but by whom? With the Thief’s Downfall in the Ministry, the curse would
have had to be cast more recently. That would point at Black and his allies.
But if they had controlled Nott, would they have set up the attack on Diagon
Alley as it had happened? They could have done a lot more with him as their
tool. Did someone else set him up, to conceal their own involvement? “So, Nott
was behind the attack on Diagon Alley, but he was likely forced to do so.”
up — but by whom? With the Thief’s Downfall in the Ministry, the curse would
have had to be cast more recently. That would point at Black and his allies.
But if they had controlled Nott, would they have set up the attack on Diagon
Alley as it had happened? They could have done a lot more with him as their
tool. Did someone else set him up, to conceal their own involvement? “So, Nott
was behind the attack on Diagon Alley, but he was likely forced to do so.”
“That is the conclusion of my investigators.”
“Did they find any evidence of memory charms?”
“No.”
“What about his backers?” She didn’t think that Nott had acted alone.
“We found no evidence of anyone working with him,” Pius said.
“Black and his accomplices had ample time to go through the manor before your
Aurors arrived at the scene.” Her tone turned the statement into an accusation
of sloppy reaction times.
Aurors arrived at the scene.” Her tone turned the statement into an accusation
of sloppy reaction times.
Pius pressed his lips together before answering. “We arrived as soon as we
heard about the attack.”
heard about the attack.”
So, he didn’t like being told off for Black’s actions. Amelia carefully didn’t
smile. “You didn’t have his manor under surveillance.”
smile. “You didn’t have his manor under surveillance.”
He inclined his head. “There were not enough Aurors available for that.”
She knew he was right — she had been in his place before. But taking the blame
for things out of your control was what you did as the Head of the DMLE.
Especially if you were plotting against your superior. “And what results did
your surveillance of the Greengrass and Davis Manors produce?”
for things out of your control was what you did as the Head of the DMLE.
Especially if you were plotting against your superior. “And what results did
your surveillance of the Greengrass and Davis Manors produce?”
That made him frown. “We haven’t been able to penetrate their wards, yet.”
She hadn’t expected that, of course — Amelia knew that the Ministry didn’t
have many Curse-Breakers who could slip through the kind of wards Old Families
had on their homes. And the few they had were among the Unspeakables, who were
currently researching the Withering Curse. Not that they had made any progress
so far. “Did your people at least manage to track them when they left their
homes?”
have many Curse-Breakers who could slip through the kind of wards Old Families
had on their homes. And the few they had were among the Unspeakables, who were
currently researching the Withering Curse. Not that they had made any progress
so far. “Did your people at least manage to track them when they left their
homes?”
“They met with Augustus Malfoy and Philius Runcorn yesterday evening.” Pius
must have noticed her surprise, since he was smiling faintly.
must have noticed her surprise, since he was smiling faintly.
She stared at him. “That was provided by your source among Malfoy’s friends.”
He nodded, his smile fading. “They have lost more of their allies following
Nott’s death,” he said, “but their remaining supporters seem to be undeterred.
If anything, they might have become even more determined to oppose Black.”
Nott’s death,” he said, “but their remaining supporters seem to be undeterred.
If anything, they might have become even more determined to oppose Black.”
“Including Greengrass and Davis?”
“They are among his supporters in the Wizengamot.” Pius continued before she
could berate him for evading the question she wanted answered. “But neither
the host nor his guests let anything slip that would tie them to any attacks.
Greengrass and Davis stayed behind when the other guests left, though.”
could berate him for evading the question she wanted answered. “But neither
the host nor his guests let anything slip that would tie them to any attacks.
Greengrass and Davis stayed behind when the other guests left, though.”
That wasn’t enough to take them in for questioning, she knew. And if she did
it anyway, Malfoy and Runcorn would be warned. But she was certain that the
two witches were involved in the whole affair. “Find out what those two are
doing for Malfoy and Runcorn! Before Black frames them as well, and leaves
them dead in the ruins of their manors.”
it anyway, Malfoy and Runcorn would be warned. But she was certain that the
two witches were involved in the whole affair. “Find out what those two are
doing for Malfoy and Runcorn! Before Black frames them as well, and leaves
them dead in the ruins of their manors.”
Pius nodded.
“Have you found out anything concerning Reid’s whereabouts?”
“Nothing,” Pius answered without any sign of shame at that failure. “Did the
houngans respond to our request for samples of the explosive used in Jamaica?”
houngans respond to our request for samples of the explosive used in Jamaica?”
She shook her head. “Fawley has passed it on, but so far they haven’t even
acknowledged it. He expects them to take a few more days before agreeing on a
response. Although, according to him, it did counter their accusations in the
ICW.” Not that that had taken much — the houngans were too infamous to have a
lot of support. “Have Beaumont and Steiner been pestering the Aurors again?”
acknowledged it. He expects them to take a few more days before agreeing on a
response. Although, according to him, it did counter their accusations in the
ICW.” Not that that had taken much — the houngans were too infamous to have a
lot of support. “Have Beaumont and Steiner been pestering the Aurors again?”
“They keep asking the same questions. We keep giving them the same answers.”
She snorted. Business as usual, then. If only those two would finally stop
trying to spy on Britain and go home. But the ICW was still putting pressure
on Britain. “Anything else?”
trying to spy on Britain and go home. But the ICW was still putting pressure
on Britain. “Anything else?”
He shook his head and left her office.
Once the door had closed behind him, Amelia clenched her teeth and closed her
eyes, hissing in frustration. Things were falling apart. Nott’s death had
revealed how weak the Ministry was compared to Black’s alliance. The public
might not have realised just how much contempt Black had displayed, but those
who mattered had certainly taken notice. She didn’t even know if Pius was
still following her orders, or if he’d inform Black as soon as he was out of
her office. And the muggleborns were up to something as well, possibly on
Black’s orders.
eyes, hissing in frustration. Things were falling apart. Nott’s death had
revealed how weak the Ministry was compared to Black’s alliance. The public
might not have realised just how much contempt Black had displayed, but those
who mattered had certainly taken notice. She didn’t even know if Pius was
still following her orders, or if he’d inform Black as soon as he was out of
her office. And the muggleborns were up to something as well, possibly on
Black’s orders.
Not for the first time, she contemplated resigning from her post. But that
would mean that either Black himself or one of his cronies would succeed her.
would mean that either Black himself or one of his cronies would succeed her.
And the Ministry would lose any integrity it still had left.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 26th, 1997**
“The rest of the recruits won’t be happy that we’re gone for the night again,”
Harry Potter said when he and Ron entered Grimmauld Place.
Harry Potter said when he and Ron entered Grimmauld Place.
His friend shrugged. “We’re not recruits, we’re allies training with them.
There’s a difference, and they should know that.”
There’s a difference, and they should know that.”
“That sounds like Hermione.”
Ron cleared his throat. “Well, she told me that when I brought it up. It’s
logical.”
logical.”
“It is. But I doubt that the recruits think like her.” Harry was almost
certain that they didn’t. Since Ron and he were missing quite a lot of the
training, there would be some resentment brewing. Even with all the amenities
of wizarding tents and magic, camp life wasn’t as comfortable as living in a
wizarding home. The food certainly wasn’t quite as good, though the difference
wasn’t as spectacular any more since the Weasleys had left.
certain that they didn’t. Since Ron and he were missing quite a lot of the
training, there would be some resentment brewing. Even with all the amenities
of wizarding tents and magic, camp life wasn’t as comfortable as living in a
wizarding home. The food certainly wasn’t quite as good, though the difference
wasn’t as spectacular any more since the Weasleys had left.
Ron shrugged again. “They’ll get over it. We’re doing a lot more than
training. And we fought Voldemort directly.”
training. And we fought Voldemort directly.”
Harry frowned. “That’ll follow us forever.”
“I sure hope so!” Ron said. “So we can avoid another war.”
He was right, even though Harry still didn’t like it. “I’m not going to wear
robes that make you wish you were colour-blind, or grow a beard,” he muttered.
robes that make you wish you were colour-blind, or grow a beard,” he muttered.
Ron chuckled and slapped him on the shoulder. “Stop being gloomy, and let’s
see what Sirius called us here for.”
see what Sirius called us here for.”
Harry thought, but didn’t mention, that Ron was as much interested in meeting
Hermione, who was already here, as in learning what Sirius wanted to talk
about. Mentioning it would have been petty. His two best friends were happy
together, and he could be happy for them. Even if it still stung a little. Or
a little more.
Hermione, who was already here, as in learning what Sirius wanted to talk
about. Mentioning it would have been petty. His two best friends were happy
together, and he could be happy for them. Even if it still stung a little. Or
a little more.
---
“There you are, soldier boys!” Sirius said with a wide grin, seated in his
favorite armchair in their living room.
favorite armchair in their living room.
Harry glanced at Hermione, who was just getting up from the table to greet
them. “Soldier boys?” Where had Sirius picked that up?
them. “Soldier boys?” Where had Sirius picked that up?
Sirius huffed. “It’s a famous muggle song!”
“Really?” He hadn’t heard that one.
“Youth today!” His godfather frowned at him.
“He found an old LP today,” Hermione explained, hugging him, then Ron. Who she
kept hugging a bit longer, Harry noticed.
kept hugging a bit longer, Harry noticed.
“Ah.” Harry sat down himself. “So, what did you call us for?” He saw Ron
sitting down as well, and Hermione returning to the table with her notes.
sitting down as well, and Hermione returning to the table with her notes.
“Greengrass and Davis met with Malfoy and Runcorn again. While they didn’t
manage to find any proof that those two are behind the recent attacks, they
did hear about Malfoy’s plan to ‘split us up’,” Sirius said. “Apparently, they
think me living with Vivienne and Remus will make people worry about you
getting ‘corrupted’.” He scoffed.
manage to find any proof that those two are behind the recent attacks, they
did hear about Malfoy’s plan to ‘split us up’,” Sirius said. “Apparently, they
think me living with Vivienne and Remus will make people worry about you
getting ‘corrupted’.” He scoffed.
“And I’m a slut who seduced you, then dumped you, which will cause the Order
and the Resistance to turn on each other,” Hermione added with a scowl.
and the Resistance to turn on each other,” Hermione added with a scowl.
Harry snorted. “That sounds as if they’re grasping at straws.” He forced
himself to chuckle — Hermione hadn’t seduced him, of course, but she had,
technically, dumped him. Not that he’d be a fool over that. She had made her
decision, after all, and had been both honest and fair about it.
himself to chuckle — Hermione hadn’t seduced him, of course, but she had,
technically, dumped him. Not that he’d be a fool over that. She had made her
decision, after all, and had been both honest and fair about it.
“A lot of people do hate werewolves, though,” Ron said. “Remember the scandal
after Remus was outed? And Veela have a certain reputation as well.”
after Remus was outed? And Veela have a certain reputation as well.”
“The muggleborns don’t really care,” Sirius said. “The purebloods…” He
shrugged. “Harry might have to point out that Remus, Fleur and Vivienne fought
Voldemort, should the idiots manage to get an article published voicing their
‘concerns’.”
shrugged. “Harry might have to point out that Remus, Fleur and Vivienne fought
Voldemort, should the idiots manage to get an article published voicing their
‘concerns’.”
Harry nodded. He could do that. “Stupid bigots,” he muttered.
“And Malfoy, at least, is too smart to put his faith in that kind of
prejudice,” Sirius said. “Runcorn’s living in the last century, so he might
actually believe that drivel. But I don’t think they’re limiting themselves to
a smear campaign.”
prejudice,” Sirius said. “Runcorn’s living in the last century, so he might
actually believe that drivel. But I don’t think they’re limiting themselves to
a smear campaign.”
“More attacks on muggleborns and purebloods? Do they actually want to start a
war? They have to know they’ll lose,” Harry said.
war? They have to know they’ll lose,” Harry said.
“They are aware of that, our two Death Eater spies did mention that.”
Sirius’s opinion of Greengrass and Davis hadn’t changed, Harry thought. He
wasn’t quite sure how he felt about the two Slytherins — they were helping
them now, and taking a considerable risk, but they had tried to kill the
Weasleys during the war…
wasn’t quite sure how he felt about the two Slytherins — they were helping
them now, and taking a considerable risk, but they had tried to kill the
Weasleys during the war…
His godfather went on: “So they’re planning something else, I think.”
“We know that Nott tried to copy our own tactics,” Hermione said. “Even if he
wasn’t too successful. His backers could be expanding on that, though.”
wasn’t too successful. His backers could be expanding on that, though.”
“Malfoy Manor?” Ron asked.
Harry felt a shiver run down his spine. If they attacked Grimmauld Place with
a bomb…
a bomb…
“Malfoy Manor was isolated; we’re in the middle of London — an attack on us
would be a threat to the Statute of Secrecy,” Sirius said.
would be a threat to the Statute of Secrecy,” Sirius said.
“They could try to cover it up as a German bomb from the Blitz going off,”
Hermione added, “but the Germans didn’t have bombs powerful enough to go
through the wards on this place.”
Hermione added, “but the Germans didn’t have bombs powerful enough to go
through the wards on this place.”
Of course she’d know that, Harry thought. She had probably calculated the
amount of explosives needed to destroy Grimmauld Place.
amount of explosives needed to destroy Grimmauld Place.
“They probably don’t know that, though,” Sirius said. “And on the other hand,
our home not only has some of the strongest wards in Britain, but we also have
quite the collection of cursed items and other dubious magical paraphernalia
stored here. An attack that destroyed part of the house would probably set off
a number of them — and that’s a clear threat to the Statue of Secrecy.”
our home not only has some of the strongest wards in Britain, but we also have
quite the collection of cursed items and other dubious magical paraphernalia
stored here. An attack that destroyed part of the house would probably set off
a number of them — and that’s a clear threat to the Statue of Secrecy.”
Ron whistled. “Worse than what Bill used on the old Burrow?”
“More obvious, I think. One of my great-grand uncles was fond of using the
Gemino Curse as a prank. My mother once set off an avalanche of dancing oil
lamps. She survived the experience, alas,” Sirius said.
Gemino Curse as a prank. My mother once set off an avalanche of dancing oil
lamps. She survived the experience, alas,” Sirius said.
Harry was somewhat reassured. But… “That won’t keep them from trying to kill
us elsewhere.”
us elsewhere.”
“We’ll have to be even more on our guard than usual,” Sirius said.
“Really feels like we swapped places with the purebloods, now we’re hiding in
our mansions and worrying about attacks,” Ron muttered.
our mansions and worrying about attacks,” Ron muttered.
Harry agreed with the sentiment. They had even left Hogwarts, as had the
Slytherins last year.
Slytherins last year.
“We’re taking steps to deal with them, though,” Hermione said, looking at
Sirius.
Sirius.
Harry’s godfather grumbled: “I’m still not convinced it’s a good plan.”
“You’re the best choice,” Hermione said. “Remus certainly wouldn’t be able to
seduce Dubois.”
seduce Dubois.”
“I wouldn’t be that certain,” Sirius objected. “He seems to have made an
impression on both Nymphadora and one of our Death Eater spies.”
impression on both Nymphadora and one of our Death Eater spies.”
“Just because Tonks was complaining about Davis doesn’t mean Remus has turned
into a heartbreaking Casanova,” Hermione said. “And Bill refused.”
into a heartbreaking Casanova,” Hermione said. “And Bill refused.”
“You mean that Fleur refused,” Sirius said with a snort. “She’s got quite the
temper.”
temper.”
“And Vivienne didn’t?” Harry asked.
The other wizard sighed. “She feels that taking down Dubois is worth ‘me
sullying myself by getting close to her’.”
sullying myself by getting close to her’.”
Hermione rolled her eyes. “She isn’t as insecure as Fleur.”
Harry was tempted to ask if Hermione would want Ron to seduce a witch for
their cause, but he knew better than to actually do so. She had a temper too,
after all.
their cause, but he knew better than to actually do so. She had a temper too,
after all.
---
Sirius’s family had definitely never included a librarian, Hermione Granger
thought, not for the first time. ‘Deliberate chaos’ indeed! She was sitting in
the Black Library, skimming through another diary of one of Sirius’s
ancestors. A rather self-aggrandising tale, and of doubtful veracity — the
claims of dealing with bone constructs did not fit with her own experiences,
although it was possible that this Black had fought weaker houngans. Or ones
using less advanced spells. In any case, his curses would not help her. And
neither would the descriptions of his ‘conquests’.
thought, not for the first time. ‘Deliberate chaos’ indeed! She was sitting in
the Black Library, skimming through another diary of one of Sirius’s
ancestors. A rather self-aggrandising tale, and of doubtful veracity — the
claims of dealing with bone constructs did not fit with her own experiences,
although it was possible that this Black had fought weaker houngans. Or ones
using less advanced spells. In any case, his curses would not help her. And
neither would the descriptions of his ‘conquests’.
Sighing, she closed the journal and put it on the ‘read’ stack. She still had
to reorganise those books as well — the library couldn’t be left in such a
state, without even an index! And yet, she lacked the time to do that, with
all the other things she had to do and deal with.
to reorganise those books as well — the library couldn’t be left in such a
state, without even an index! And yet, she lacked the time to do that, with
all the other things she had to do and deal with.
“No luck there either?” Ron asked, peering at her over the journal he was
reading.
reading.
She shook her head. “Just another collection of embellished war stories.
Barely better than Lockhart’s work.”
Barely better than Lockhart’s work.”
Ron winced. “That bad?”
“The prose is worse, actually.” Lockhart at least had been an accomplished
writer who had, although probably by accident, successfully cast a
Bone-Vanishing Charm to great effect. Unfortunately, that spell didn’t scale
up enough to be of much use against a skeleton, much less a bone wall. “What
about yours?” she asked.
writer who had, although probably by accident, successfully cast a
Bone-Vanishing Charm to great effect. Unfortunately, that spell didn’t scale
up enough to be of much use against a skeleton, much less a bone wall. “What
about yours?” she asked.
“No spells, but the witch who made these notes describes the tactics they
used.”
used.”
“That could be useful.”
“They didn’t work out,” he said.
“Still more useful than a detailed description of a whorehouse in Magical
Miami,” she countered.
Miami,” she countered.
“What?” Harry looked up from the thick tome he was currently reading.
“Sirius’s ancestor had some peculiar priorities,” she explained.
“Ah.” Harry looked like he was about to say something more, but then went back
to reading.
to reading.
“Did you find anything useful?” she asked.
“Some spells that could be useful, though not against bone constructs and
conjured skeletons.”
conjured skeletons.”
She sighed. “I really wish I could tell Sirius’s ancestors off.”
“You can, actually. There are portraits of them,” Ron said.
She shook her head. “Those are just a sort of imprint. Worse than ghosts.” And
summoning their souls just to scold them for their crimes against libraries
would be excessive. And impossible.
summoning their souls just to scold them for their crimes against libraries
would be excessive. And impossible.
She grabbed the next journal in her pile and opened it. She didn’t start
reading right away, though. Instead she looked at Ron and Harry. She
remembered how they had killed Nott together. She was certain they had done
that to spare her from having to do it herself. A sweet gesture, even though
she had killed before. Many times.
reading right away, though. Instead she looked at Ron and Harry. She
remembered how they had killed Nott together. She was certain they had done
that to spare her from having to do it herself. A sweet gesture, even though
she had killed before. Many times.
And she knew she’d kill again — probably a houngan, she thought while starting
to read the journal in her hands.
to read the journal in her hands.
---
**Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, Near Toulon, France, March 28th, 1997**
The French were far too aggressive in battle, but they knew how to live,
Sirius Black thought, looking at the dishes and wine the waiters and
waitresses were offering. The Comte de Hornes had spared no expense for his
party. It wasn’t a masquerade, which was fortunate — people were always on
their guard on such occasions; both Britain and France had had their share of
assassinations at such events — but the robes worn by the guests resembled
costumes more than the dress robes with which Sirius was familiar. Elaborately
styled and with a plethora of spells cast on them, each was a minor work of
art showcasing the skill of its wearer — and, in many cases, their body. A
French tradition dating back to the time before the Statue of Secrecy, he had
been told by Vivienne. His own robes were rather understated, although he had
cast a few charms that animated the designs on them, displaying short scenes
of famous events as they moved around on the fabric.
Sirius Black thought, looking at the dishes and wine the waiters and
waitresses were offering. The Comte de Hornes had spared no expense for his
party. It wasn’t a masquerade, which was fortunate — people were always on
their guard on such occasions; both Britain and France had had their share of
assassinations at such events — but the robes worn by the guests resembled
costumes more than the dress robes with which Sirius was familiar. Elaborately
styled and with a plethora of spells cast on them, each was a minor work of
art showcasing the skill of its wearer — and, in many cases, their body. A
French tradition dating back to the time before the Statue of Secrecy, he had
been told by Vivienne. His own robes were rather understated, although he had
cast a few charms that animated the designs on them, displaying short scenes
of famous events as they moved around on the fabric.
He resisted the urge to rub his face while he signalled a waitress with his
empty flute. The muggle disguise Hermione and her friends had used on him made
his skin itch, and he could only imagine what the paint they had smeared into
his hair would do to his locks. The worst thing, though, was the loss of his
beard. He didn’t look like a dashing rogue any more, but rather some ponce
like Lockhart!
empty flute. The muggle disguise Hermione and her friends had used on him made
his skin itch, and he could only imagine what the paint they had smeared into
his hair would do to his locks. The worst thing, though, was the loss of his
beard. He didn’t look like a dashing rogue any more, but rather some ponce
like Lockhart!
An attractive ponce, though, he had to admit — he did draw a great deal of
attention from the other guests, and certainly not because of his robes. If he
didn’t have Vivienne and wasn’t on a secret mission of the utmost importance…
He sighed, and nodded at the servant who refilled his flute with more
champagne before venturing towards the garden.
attention from the other guests, and certainly not because of his robes. If he
didn’t have Vivienne and wasn’t on a secret mission of the utmost importance…
He sighed, and nodded at the servant who refilled his flute with more
champagne before venturing towards the garden.
He still wasn’t fond of the plan. While it flattered him that others thought
so highly of his charm, he felt exposed and vulnerable. His invitation was the
result of some manipulation — blackmail, as he understood it — of a minor
noble. He wasn’t likely to talk, but Sirius couldn’t help but worry a little.
If he had been able to attend as a friend of the Delacours or the d’Aigles…
but Dubois despised both families, and the feeling was mutual. And while the
witch probably would have liked to steal the lover of a rival, she wouldn’t
trust him enough for their plan to work.
so highly of his charm, he felt exposed and vulnerable. His invitation was the
result of some manipulation — blackmail, as he understood it — of a minor
noble. He wasn’t likely to talk, but Sirius couldn’t help but worry a little.
If he had been able to attend as a friend of the Delacours or the d’Aigles…
but Dubois despised both families, and the feeling was mutual. And while the
witch probably would have liked to steal the lover of a rival, she wouldn’t
trust him enough for their plan to work.
Which meant he would have to take the first step, without being obvious about
it. Which wouldn’t be too easy, not even for him. He walked on the terrace,
acting as if he was looking at the garden while searching for Dubois. She
wasn’t inside, and it was too early for her to have left without snubbing
their host, so that meant… there!
it. Which wouldn’t be too easy, not even for him. He walked on the terrace,
acting as if he was looking at the garden while searching for Dubois. She
wasn’t inside, and it was too early for her to have left without snubbing
their host, so that meant… there!
He spotted the witch near the stairs leading to the fountain, talking with an
older wizard. Probably one of her acquaintances, he thought — they didn’t look
like lovers or even friends. She was wearing a robe with animated waterfalls
in various places instead of fabric, a rather tantalising display, if he was
honest. He glanced back at the room he had left, and met the eyes of Lydia,
one of Vivienne’s cousins, then strode on towards the fountain.
older wizard. Probably one of her acquaintances, he thought — they didn’t look
like lovers or even friends. She was wearing a robe with animated waterfalls
in various places instead of fabric, a rather tantalising display, if he was
honest. He glanced back at the room he had left, and met the eyes of Lydia,
one of Vivienne’s cousins, then strode on towards the fountain.
As planned, Lydia followed him, catching up to him just as he was passing
Dubois. “Monsieur Anderson!” she called out.
Dubois. “Monsieur Anderson!” she called out.
Sirius took care to frown briefly where Dubois could see it, but Lydia
couldn’t, before turning around with a polite smile. “Mademoiselle?” Not quite
impolite, but certainly not inviting anything.
couldn’t, before turning around with a polite smile. “Mademoiselle?” Not quite
impolite, but certainly not inviting anything.
The Veela, whose robes seemed to be made of clouds, looked taken aback, as
planned. “I was curious about your homeland,” she said in French, then
proceeded to ask him a few questions about Magical Portsmouth, the homeland of
his cover identity. He took care to answer in a manner just this side of being
rude, and the witch left in a huff. She was a good actress, Sirius thought as
he watched her leave.
planned. “I was curious about your homeland,” she said in French, then
proceeded to ask him a few questions about Magical Portsmouth, the homeland of
his cover identity. He took care to answer in a manner just this side of being
rude, and the witch left in a huff. She was a good actress, Sirius thought as
he watched her leave.
Sighing, he shook his head, sneering briefly, before he continued on his way
towards the fountain. When he passed Dubois he nodded at her. “Bonsoir.
Michael Anderson.” He let his eyes roam over her figure for an instant, before
smiling at her with just a hint of interest.
towards the fountain. When he passed Dubois he nodded at her. “Bonsoir.
Michael Anderson.” He let his eyes roam over her figure for an instant, before
smiling at her with just a hint of interest.
“Isabelle Dubois.” She met his eyes, and he thought her polite smile changed
into a more sultry one before he nodded at the wizard, who apparently was
‘Antoine Deschamps’, and left for the fountain.
into a more sultry one before he nodded at the wizard, who apparently was
‘Antoine Deschamps’, and left for the fountain.
A few minutes later, he saw her heading towards him, and smiled.
---
**Magical Port Royal, Jamaica, March 28th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood hated wearing the form of a muggle boy barely old enough to
carry a wand, but he didn’t have access to a local wizard’s hair to use with
Polyjuice. At least he wasn’t risking being recognised as a muggle — since
Jamaica had no school like Hogwarts to which all children were sent, no one
should be suspicious that they didn’t recognise him. And his apparent youth
also provided a good explanation for his lack of familiarity with the town, no
matter how much it grated to act like a stupid child.
carry a wand, but he didn’t have access to a local wizard’s hair to use with
Polyjuice. At least he wasn’t risking being recognised as a muggle — since
Jamaica had no school like Hogwarts to which all children were sent, no one
should be suspicious that they didn’t recognise him. And his apparent youth
also provided a good explanation for his lack of familiarity with the town, no
matter how much it grated to act like a stupid child.
Of course, after several days spent roaming the town, he now knew the island’s
capital quite well. And some of its residents no one would miss. Like the
particularly unsavory houngan trying to sneak up on him, unaware that his
spell had warned him of the man’s presence minutes ago.
capital quite well. And some of its residents no one would miss. Like the
particularly unsavory houngan trying to sneak up on him, unaware that his
spell had warned him of the man’s presence minutes ago.
Drawing his wand while he waited behind the next corner, Augustus grinned at
the thought that Ricky, as the criminal called himself, probably thought that
he had caught a lucky break when the apparent child had wandered into a
deserted side alley.
the thought that Ricky, as the criminal called himself, probably thought that
he had caught a lucky break when the apparent child had wandered into a
deserted side alley.
He had his wand ready, and when the houngan turned around the corner, Augustus
stunned him before he could react. A few spells later and Augustus tossed a
bright red ball from one hand to the other as he left Port Royal.
stunned him before he could react. A few spells later and Augustus tossed a
bright red ball from one hand to the other as he left Port Royal.
Chapter 57: Hunting
===================
I’d like to thank fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved the story a
lot.
lot.
---
**Chapter 57: Hunting**
‘*It has been said that the Second Blood War was decided by intelligence and
logistics. While I do not completely agree with that assessment — the war was
ultimately decided by the defeat of the Dark Lord at the wand of Harry Potter
in the Battle of Diagon Alley, not by a clandestine operation — I admit that
both played crucial roles in the war. And in a not so surprising parallel to
this, spying became even more important in the immediate aftermath of the war.
Politics, never a honourable business to start with, was both bloody and dirty
during that period, and every faction, both foreign and domestic, used spies
to further their agenda. In hindsight, the Ministry’s rather lacklustre
performance during the war can be at least partially explained by its apparent
lack of intelligence assets as displayed in the political struggles following
the war.’*
logistics. While I do not completely agree with that assessment — the war was
ultimately decided by the defeat of the Dark Lord at the wand of Harry Potter
in the Battle of Diagon Alley, not by a clandestine operation — I admit that
both played crucial roles in the war. And in a not so surprising parallel to
this, spying became even more important in the immediate aftermath of the war.
Politics, never a honourable business to start with, was both bloody and dirty
during that period, and every faction, both foreign and domestic, used spies
to further their agenda. In hindsight, the Ministry’s rather lacklustre
performance during the war can be at least partially explained by its apparent
lack of intelligence assets as displayed in the political struggles following
the war.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 28th, 1997**
Hermione Granger frowned when, for the fifth time in less than half an hour,
Harry sighed loudly. “He’ll be fine,” she told him. For the fourth time.
Harry’s godfather could take care of himself.
Harry sighed loudly. “He’ll be fine,” she told him. For the fourth time.
Harry’s godfather could take care of himself.
“He hasn’t done this before,” her friend said. “Not since Azkaban.”
That Sirius was still affected by his time in that hellhole — which Hermione
was determined to close once they had taken control of the Wizengamot — didn’t
need saying. All of them were aware of that. But they each also had their own
demons to deal with. And more than the French to deal with. They’d never
resolve the houngan crisis if Hermione couldn’t focus on her books due to all
the distractions — it wasn’t as if they could do anything for Sirius right
now. “He’s not alone. The Delacours and the d’Aigles are ready to help him, if
they’re needed.”
was determined to close once they had taken control of the Wizengamot — didn’t
need saying. All of them were aware of that. But they each also had their own
demons to deal with. And more than the French to deal with. They’d never
resolve the houngan crisis if Hermione couldn’t focus on her books due to all
the distractions — it wasn’t as if they could do anything for Sirius right
now. “He’s not alone. The Delacours and the d’Aigles are ready to help him, if
they’re needed.”
Harry grumbled something she didn’t catch, but he’d at least now be silent for
the next few minutes. And Ron hadn’t even looked up — for a boy who had grown
up with six siblings, most of them prone to loud outbursts, without the help
of a Silencing Charm until Hogwarts, this was probably nothing special.
the next few minutes. And Ron hadn’t even looked up — for a boy who had grown
up with six siblings, most of them prone to loud outbursts, without the help
of a Silencing Charm until Hogwarts, this was probably nothing special.
She suppressed a snort — it wouldn’t do to set a bad example herself — and
focused again on her reading. Although she didn’t expect anything to come from
this book either — another tale long on combat descriptions, and short on
specific spells. Or vague, in the more interesting scenes, like this account
of a witch laying waste to a horde of undead by disrupting their very bones…
She blinked. Winnifred Braddock? She had seen that name before, she was
certain.
focused again on her reading. Although she didn’t expect anything to come from
this book either — another tale long on combat descriptions, and short on
specific spells. Or vague, in the more interesting scenes, like this account
of a witch laying waste to a horde of undead by disrupting their very bones…
She blinked. Winnifred Braddock? She had seen that name before, she was
certain.
Yes — the books Dumbledore had left her. One of them was written by Braddock.
She hadn’t done more than skim its contents as it had covered some of the
magical creatures of Africa, but if she had been an accomplished witch on the
battlefield as well, then that may have been a mistake.
She hadn’t done more than skim its contents as it had covered some of the
magical creatures of Africa, but if she had been an accomplished witch on the
battlefield as well, then that may have been a mistake.
“I’ll be right back!” she announced, standing up and closing the journal. She
had to fetch that tome from the Resistance’s headquarters!
had to fetch that tome from the Resistance’s headquarters!
---
Ron Weasley blinked when he saw Hermione rush out of the Black Library without
any explanation. And once again when she stuck her head back in to announce
that she was fetching a book.
any explanation. And once again when she stuck her head back in to announce
that she was fetching a book.
“It must be very important, if she almost forgot to tell us that she’s leaving
the house,” Harry said.
the house,” Harry said.
Ron nodded. Hermione had drilled those rules into them like Moody would have.
“Last time she rushed off like that was… second year? The Basilisk?”
“Last time she rushed off like that was… second year? The Basilisk?”
“Probably,” his friend agreed.
And she had been petrified before she could get back to them, Ron remembered.
Damn. She wasn’t in danger — she could apparate straight to the Resistance’s
base and back — but now he was worrying anyway.
Damn. She wasn’t in danger — she could apparate straight to the Resistance’s
base and back — but now he was worrying anyway.
Fortunately, it didn’t take her more than five minutes to return, a floating
trunk in her wake which she set down on her table with a flick of her wand.
trunk in her wake which she set down on her table with a flick of her wand.
“That looks like rather more than one book,” he said.
She nodded without looking at him, already opening the trunk. “Yes. One of the
witches mentioned in the last journal had a familiar name… there!” With a wide
smile, she held up a thick tome. “Winnifred Braddock’s ‘A Guide to Magical
Africa’s Magical Animals’.”
witches mentioned in the last journal had a familiar name… there!” With a wide
smile, she held up a thick tome. “Winnifred Braddock’s ‘A Guide to Magical
Africa’s Magical Animals’.”
“Africa?” Neither France nor Jamaica was in Africa. He glanced at Harry, who
looked as lost as Ron felt.
looked as lost as Ron felt.
“Yes, Africa.” Hermione was flipping through the book. “Apparating Aardvark…
Blasting Aerophant… Bone Devil!”
Blasting Aerophant… Bone Devil!”
Ron sighed. They wouldn’t get an answer until Hermione was done with whatever
she was researching.
she was researching.
“’Bone Devils, distant relatives of the dreaded Greater Tasmanian Devil…’ — I
seriously question that — ’… appear as masses of swirling bones. They seem to
grow in size as they age, but are actually simply adding the bones of their
prey to their shell. Older specimens may take a long time to be defeated as
the accumulated bones form an almost impregnable armour which is able to
absorb many spells in battle. To deal with them, the native wizards developed
a Rapid-Bone-Dissolving Potion which is made from…’” She looked up at Ron and
Harry and smiled.
seriously question that — ’… appear as masses of swirling bones. They seem to
grow in size as they age, but are actually simply adding the bones of their
prey to their shell. Older specimens may take a long time to be defeated as
the accumulated bones form an almost impregnable armour which is able to
absorb many spells in battle. To deal with them, the native wizards developed
a Rapid-Bone-Dissolving Potion which is made from…’” She looked up at Ron and
Harry and smiled.
“Time to brew!”
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 29th, 1997**
Once, Ron Weasley had liked Potions. His mum used to brew a number of them for
the family and he had liked watching her work when he was little. That had
changed once he had started at Hogwarts, of course — Snape could have made
anyone loathe the subject. Not even Slughorn, who was a decent teacher,
replacing Snape a year ago had changed that.
the family and he had liked watching her work when he was little. That had
changed once he had started at Hogwarts, of course — Snape could have made
anyone loathe the subject. Not even Slughorn, who was a decent teacher,
replacing Snape a year ago had changed that.
Nevertheless, Ron was a little apprehensive as he watched Hermione drop a
batch of sliced serpentine slug spleens into the cauldron in Sirius’s — and
Harry’s — basement. He knew she excelled at Potions, as she excelled at
everything else, but she hadn’t brewed this potion before, and all they had
were the notes of this Braddock witch. If anything went wrong… he shuddered.
batch of sliced serpentine slug spleens into the cauldron in Sirius’s — and
Harry’s — basement. He knew she excelled at Potions, as she excelled at
everything else, but she hadn’t brewed this potion before, and all they had
were the notes of this Braddock witch. If anything went wrong… he shuddered.
It had taken Ron and Harry some time to persuade her that the middle of the
night wasn’t the best time to start brewing an exotic potion for the first
time — she had taken her ‘failure to properly study’ the books Dumbledore had
left her rather hard.
night wasn’t the best time to start brewing an exotic potion for the first
time — she had taken her ‘failure to properly study’ the books Dumbledore had
left her rather hard.
Hermione noticed his reaction and frowned at him as she started to stir the
potion. “What’s wrong?”
potion. “What’s wrong?”
He almost told her to watch her stirring, but questioning her ability to brew
a potion and talk at the same time would distract her more than simply
answering. “I’m trying not to think about what would happen if this
Rapid-Bone-Dissolving Potion was spilled.” Horrible images of flopping on the
floor as some sort of boneless human puddle came to mind.
a potion and talk at the same time would distract her more than simply
answering. “I’m trying not to think about what would happen if this
Rapid-Bone-Dissolving Potion was spilled.” Horrible images of flopping on the
floor as some sort of boneless human puddle came to mind.
She snorted. “It’s actually quite safe. It only affects bones, not skin or
flesh. Not even hair or teeth. You could bathe in this and it wouldn’t do
anything. Well, there’s the heat, but other than that…” She shrugged and
stopped stirring, then added the handful of diced garlic she had prepared
earlier. “Of course, if you drank it, there would probably be some unpleasant
effects.”
flesh. Not even hair or teeth. You could bathe in this and it wouldn’t do
anything. Well, there’s the heat, but other than that…” She shrugged and
stopped stirring, then added the handful of diced garlic she had prepared
earlier. “Of course, if you drank it, there would probably be some unpleasant
effects.”
“So, we still need a way to deal with zombies? The undead variant, I mean,” he
clarified before she could correct him.
clarified before she could correct him.
She stirred again — counter-clockwise this time — and pursed her lips. “The
type of zombies made from animated corpses are usually decaying. Unless they
are very fresh, bones should be exposed in various spots where the flesh and
skin have rotted off, and therefore they would be vulnerable to the potion —
at least to some extent.”
type of zombies made from animated corpses are usually decaying. Unless they
are very fresh, bones should be exposed in various spots where the flesh and
skin have rotted off, and therefore they would be vulnerable to the potion —
at least to some extent.”
“Might be good to soften them up with Blasting Curses, then,” Ron said. “To
expose more bones.”
expose more bones.”
“Yes.” She bit her lower lip as she grabbed a pinch of powdered fluorite,
sprinkling it carefully into the liquid. “We’ll also need a way to use the
potion in the field. Throwing vials at skeletons, even with Banishing Charms,
is not an effective method.”
sprinkling it carefully into the liquid. “We’ll also need a way to use the
potion in the field. Throwing vials at skeletons, even with Banishing Charms,
is not an effective method.”
“The ‘Everlasting Evaporator’ Dumbledore had left to me would have been good
for that, if combined with some wind,” Ron said. “But it was destroyed.”
Together with his brothers’ shop.
for that, if combined with some wind,” Ron said. “But it was destroyed.”
Together with his brothers’ shop.
“If we can discover the spell that the item used then we can turn the potion
into a sort of aerosol,” Hermione said. “It couldn’t be used effectively with
most potions, but on this, and maybe a few others which are actually more like
ointments…”
into a sort of aerosol,” Hermione said. “It couldn’t be used effectively with
most potions, but on this, and maybe a few others which are actually more like
ointments…”
“Exploding Fluid?” Ron had paid attention when she had told him about the
different types of muggle bombs.
different types of muggle bombs.
She winced. “That would… probably act like a fuel-air explosive. We’d need to
test it. Once we know the spell. Finding it might take some time, unless it’s
in the Hogwarts Library.”
test it. Once we know the spell. Finding it might take some time, unless it’s
in the Hogwarts Library.”
“I could ask Ginny to check.” It would keep his sister busy, contributing, and
out of trouble.
out of trouble.
“She can’t involve others, though — we don’t want that knowledge to spread to
our enemies. They could greatly enhance the effect of their attacks that way.”
Hermione took a step back from the cauldron and used her wand to dim the
flames beneath it. “Now it just needs to simmer for three and three quarter
hours,” she stated while winding up a muggle alarm clock.
our enemies. They could greatly enhance the effect of their attacks that way.”
Hermione took a step back from the cauldron and used her wand to dim the
flames beneath it. “Now it just needs to simmer for three and three quarter
hours,” she stated while winding up a muggle alarm clock.
Ron let out a sigh that was just a bit too loud, then grinned when she frowned
at him. “Time to study the books Dumbledore left you?” They could spend more
time together.
at him. “Time to study the books Dumbledore left you?” They could spend more
time together.
It was her turn to sigh. “I wish I could. But I have to check up on the
training camp. We’re running exercises for the planned operations in London.”
training camp. We’re running exercises for the planned operations in London.”
“Ah, right.”
“Are you going to take part as well?” she asked, her head tilted slightly to
the side. Her hair had grown out some, he noticed, but it was still far from
the wild mane she had sported before the war.
the side. Her hair had grown out some, he noticed, but it was still far from
the wild mane she had sported before the war.
“I don’t think so,” he answered. ‘You’re not the only one who has sort of
neglected what Dumbledore left us.’ And Harry could handle Neville in the
training camp just fine. “Even though I don’t yet know just how useful are the
trinkets I’ve got left.”
neglected what Dumbledore left us.’ And Harry could handle Neville in the
training camp just fine. “Even though I don’t yet know just how useful are the
trinkets I’ve got left.”
The Evaporator had been obvious in hindsight, the bound Marid had been
obviously useful, and he had thought of a few uses for the Animated Rope. The
rest, though, were not quite as easy to make sense of. He still hadn’t found a
way to use the self-shaving flying razor for anything but shaving since it
couldn’t be used to cut anything but hair; he had tested that. And the other
two…
obviously useful, and he had thought of a few uses for the Animated Rope. The
rest, though, were not quite as easy to make sense of. He still hadn’t found a
way to use the self-shaving flying razor for anything but shaving since it
couldn’t be used to cut anything but hair; he had tested that. And the other
two…
Well, he could spare the time for more experimentation. Dumbledore must have
had a reason to leave those items to him.
had a reason to leave those items to him.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 29th, 1997**
“You want to be trained as a soldier? You look like a tourist! Do you plan to
crawl through the mud wearing those fancy pants? Do you expect a butler to
follow you around with a tray of champagne?”
crawl through the mud wearing those fancy pants? Do you expect a butler to
follow you around with a tray of champagne?”
Harry Potter saw Neville cringe when the Sergeant addressed him — they should
have changed before apparating, he realised — but his friend quickly stood up
straight again. “Yes.”
have changed before apparating, he realised — but his friend quickly stood up
straight again. “Yes.”
“Yes, you’re a tourist?” The tall mercenary stepped closer to loom over
Neville.
Neville.
“No, I’m here to train with them!” Neville responded. He pushed his chin out
and stared at him.
and stared at him.
The Sergeant snorted. He nodded towards Harry. “Him and his mate are skipping
training half the time, and now you arrive three weeks late. This isn’t a
summer camp, boy!”
training half the time, and now you arrive three weeks late. This isn’t a
summer camp, boy!”
That remark cut a bit too close to the truth, Harry thought. Ron and he were
absent a bit too often in his opinion. The recruits probably thought the same.
Two of them who were watching the scene, Emily and Anna, were snickering. He
shook his head. “He isn’t here for the whole training, just a day.”
absent a bit too often in his opinion. The recruits probably thought the same.
Two of them who were watching the scene, Emily and Anna, were snickering. He
shook his head. “He isn’t here for the whole training, just a day.”
Neville shot Harry a look that clearly told him that his friend felt betrayed.
Harry didn’t react and instead focused on Boones.
Harry didn’t react and instead focused on Boones.
The mercenary narrowed his eyes. “He won’t learn enough in a day to go into
combat. Not that you’ll learn enough in a month either.”
combat. Not that you’ll learn enough in a month either.”
Fortunately, Neville held his tongue, though it was obvious that he disagreed.
Harry shrugged. “It’s just a day. We’ll get changed.”
Harry shrugged. “It’s just a day. We’ll get changed.”
The Sergeant scoffed and shook his head, but turned away. As soon as he
spotted Emily and Anna, he bellowed: “You there! You think this is funny? You
think you’re real soldiers? You’re not any better than the tourist here! Stop
wasting time here and run to the range so you can at least hit the area of
your target with a gun!”
spotted Emily and Anna, he bellowed: “You there! You think this is funny? You
think you’re real soldiers? You’re not any better than the tourist here! Stop
wasting time here and run to the range so you can at least hit the area of
your target with a gun!”
“Yes, Sarge!” The two witches jerked and ran off. Boones glared at Harry and
Neville, then walked towards the range himself.
Neville, then walked towards the range himself.
“Range?” Neville asked.
“Shooting range. For firearms training,” Harry explained.
“Ah. Like a duelling hall?”
“Not quite.” Harry led him over to the Resistance’s tents.
“I guess I’m not going to learn how to use firearms then,” Neville said. “If
it takes that long.”
it takes that long.”
“You’re right. You’ll get to watch the others so you know what they can do,
though.” Harry noticed Neville looking at the fatigues he had been given with
a puzzled expression. “Something wrong?”
though.” Harry noticed Neville looking at the fatigues he had been given with
a puzzled expression. “Something wrong?”
“Just wondering… will we be wearing these green clothes in London? I think I
only saw one guy wearing pants with that colour and pattern when I was there.
In muggle London, I mean.”
only saw one guy wearing pants with that colour and pattern when I was there.
In muggle London, I mean.”
“No. We’ll be wearing normal clothes,” Harry said. “Normal muggle clothes.
Nothing too posh. So we can blend in.” And so no one would call the police and
report that London was under attack by unknown soldiers.
Nothing too posh. So we can blend in.” And so no one would call the police and
report that London was under attack by unknown soldiers.
“Ah.” Neville grimaced. “I didn’t know that my clothes were wrong. They were
in that magazine.”
in that magazine.”
“They weren’t wrong, just a bit too expensive for the area.”
“Ah.” Neville held up the flap of Harry’s tent for them. Inside, he sighed.
“At least your tents are normal. Everything else…” He closed his eyes, sitting
down in an armchair in the tent’s living room. “That man doesn’t like me.”
“At least your tents are normal. Everything else…” He closed his eyes, sitting
down in an armchair in the tent’s living room. “That man doesn’t like me.”
“Boones?” Harry snorted. “He doesn’t like anyone, I think. You should hear the
others talk about him.”
others talk about him.”
“Like Moody?”
“Pretty much.” Except that Moody was dead, Harry thought, killed by Voldemort.
If Harry had been a bit faster arriving that day… he sighed, sat down on his
bed and pulled his fatigues out of his pocket.
If Harry had been a bit faster arriving that day… he sighed, sat down on his
bed and pulled his fatigues out of his pocket.
“So…” Neville said after a moment. “You left Hogwarts for this?”
“More or less.” Harry shrugged, then started to change.
“Are you and Ron part of the Resistance then?”
“Not exactly.” And they probably never would be.
“Is that because you’re not muggleborns?” Neville held up his new pants.
He wasn’t exactly wrong, Harry knew. He shook his head anyway. “We’re members
of the Order, not the Resistance.” He pulled his shirt on, then grabbed his
boots. “But enough of that. Hermione will run an exercise this afternoon. I’ll
give you a tour of the camp until then, with a stop at the range.”
of the Order, not the Resistance.” He pulled his shirt on, then grabbed his
boots. “But enough of that. Hermione will run an exercise this afternoon. I’ll
give you a tour of the camp until then, with a stop at the range.”
Neville nodded, then licked his lips. “Do the others, the muggleborns, like
you?”
you?”
“Are you asking because you saw them laughing at us?”
Neville hesitated, then slowly nodded.
“They were laughing because they went through the same thing when we started
here. Boones called them the sorriest lot of recruits he’d ever seen. And he
said the same to Hermione and the other Resistance members in the first camp.”
here. Boones called them the sorriest lot of recruits he’d ever seen. And he
said the same to Hermione and the other Resistance members in the first camp.”
“Ah.” Neville looked relieved as he transfigured his shoes into boots.
“Of course, they don’t particularly like the Ministry or the Old Families, but
they know that you went out by yourself to hunt Death Eaters. You’ll be
alright.”
they know that you went out by yourself to hunt Death Eaters. You’ll be
alright.”
Seeing Neville smile weakly, Harry hoped that he wouldn’t be proven a liar.
---
**Marseille, Quartier Magique, France, March 29th, 1997**
The French knew how to live well, Sirius Black had to admit — the room in the
hôtel he had rented didn’t lack any amenity for which he might wish. Extension
Charms had turned the room into a suite, or maybe even a small palace, the
furniture was covered with all sorts of spells to provide maximal comfort, as
the bed he was lying on proved, and the lunch had been *magnifique*.
hôtel he had rented didn’t lack any amenity for which he might wish. Extension
Charms had turned the room into a suite, or maybe even a small palace, the
furniture was covered with all sorts of spells to provide maximal comfort, as
the bed he was lying on proved, and the lunch had been *magnifique*.
It was expensive, of course — but Michael Anderson, recent émigré from Magical
Portsmouth who had managed to save most of his fortune when he had to take
flight after a coup had toppled the old regime, could afford it. As could
Sirius, of course. But all this luxury didn’t change the fact that he was
missing his family. Not even Vivienne could stay with him, lest his cover as a
bigoted pureblood from the Americas be blown.
Portsmouth who had managed to save most of his fortune when he had to take
flight after a coup had toppled the old regime, could afford it. As could
Sirius, of course. But all this luxury didn’t change the fact that he was
missing his family. Not even Vivienne could stay with him, lest his cover as a
bigoted pureblood from the Americas be blown.
A soft knock at the door — magically created; he could have any sound he
wanted instead — informed him that someone from the hôtel’s staff was waiting
outside. Sighing, he scooted a little to the side so he could easily let
himself drop behind the bed to use it as cover and, just in case, drew his
wand and flicked it at the door.
wanted instead — informed him that someone from the hôtel’s staff was waiting
outside. Sighing, he scooted a little to the side so he could easily let
himself drop behind the bed to use it as cover and, just in case, drew his
wand and flicked it at the door.
It was one of the maids. “Monsieur Anderson? There was a letter delivered for
you.” The young woman held out an envelope.
you.” The young woman held out an envelope.
Sirius didn’t bother getting up. Anderson wasn’t interested in maids, no
matter how pretty they were, nor how well their robes fit them. He was a snob
of the worst sort.
matter how pretty they were, nor how well their robes fit them. He was a snob
of the worst sort.
“Thank you. Accio letter.”
The envelope flew towards him, landing softly on his bed — Sirius trusted the
hôtel’s security measures, but he’d still cast his own spells to check for
curses before touching the thing. Another flick of his wand sent a Sickle to
the maid.
hôtel’s security measures, but he’d still cast his own spells to check for
curses before touching the thing. Another flick of his wand sent a Sickle to
the maid.
“Merci, Monsieur.” She smiled politely and bowed.
He waved his hand as she left the room, then cast a few detection spells on
the envelope. It looked safe, but you never knew. And since the North American
Magical enclaves were notorious for their spotty records due to their constant
wars and revolutions, claiming to be from the Americas was not entirely
unheard of as a cover, to say the least. But then again, the constant turmoil
also regularly sent many genuine emigrants to Europe.
the envelope. It looked safe, but you never knew. And since the North American
Magical enclaves were notorious for their spotty records due to their constant
wars and revolutions, claiming to be from the Americas was not entirely
unheard of as a cover, to say the least. But then again, the constant turmoil
also regularly sent many genuine emigrants to Europe.
The envelope carried the seal of the Damases, one of the oldest pureblood
families in France. He cast a Severing Charm on the envelope, slicing it open
without breaking the seal, then summoned the parchment inside.
families in France. He cast a Severing Charm on the envelope, slicing it open
without breaking the seal, then summoned the parchment inside.
It was an invitation to a dinner with Marie de Damas for the following day.
She wasn’t from the main branch of the family, of course — those Damases would
never give a colonial émigré the time of the day — but she was a close friend
of the Comte de Hornes. Rumoured to be his natural daughter, actually, as
Vivienne had told him in private. One of those rumours everyone was aware of,
apparently, at least in Magical France.
She wasn’t from the main branch of the family, of course — those Damases would
never give a colonial émigré the time of the day — but she was a close friend
of the Comte de Hornes. Rumoured to be his natural daughter, actually, as
Vivienne had told him in private. One of those rumours everyone was aware of,
apparently, at least in Magical France.
Chuckling at the differences between France and Britain — such a rumour would
have caused a duel or two among the Old Families — he used a Dictaquill to pen
his acceptance of the invitation. He didn’t know if Dubois would be attending
as well — Vivienne hadn’t mentioned de Damas as an ally of the witch — but it
wasn’t as if he had anything else planned for tomorrow.
have caused a duel or two among the Old Families — he used a Dictaquill to pen
his acceptance of the invitation. He didn’t know if Dubois would be attending
as well — Vivienne hadn’t mentioned de Damas as an ally of the witch — but it
wasn’t as if he had anything else planned for tomorrow.
But he hoped Dubois would be in attendance — he wasn’t looking forward to
fending off another gaggle of witches looking for a rich husband, or acting
like a bigot towards anyone with muggle or non-human heritage, without the
audience for whom his act was meant. Even though Vivienne had assured him that
Dubois would hear about everything the day after at the latest.
fending off another gaggle of witches looking for a rich husband, or acting
like a bigot towards anyone with muggle or non-human heritage, without the
audience for whom his act was meant. Even though Vivienne had assured him that
Dubois would hear about everything the day after at the latest.
Sirius leaned back and closed his eyes. He missed her. Her smile, the cute way
she tried to hide her distaste whenever Kreacher served black pudding for
breakfast, how she sounded as she woke up…
she tried to hide her distaste whenever Kreacher served black pudding for
breakfast, how she sounded as she woke up…
He wished this undercover mission was already over so that he could return to
his family.
his family.
---
**London, Bromley, March 29th, 1997**
Bess Cox studied her arm. She couldn’t spot any scars, not even a
discolouration where the acid had burned her — her skin had been completely
healed. And yet she felt the urge to scratch at it.
discolouration where the acid had burned her — her skin had been completely
healed. And yet she felt the urge to scratch at it.
“Admiring yourself?”
She looked up and saw that Randall had left the bathroom of their room. He was
already dressed.
already dressed.
Unlike herself — she was still clad in the shirt and shorts she had worn to
bed. She snorted at him. “Just checking your handiwork. Wouldn’t want to have
the arm fall off in the middle of the street.”
bed. She snorted at him. “Just checking your handiwork. Wouldn’t want to have
the arm fall off in the middle of the street.”
He chuckled at that. “That could actually happen if you splinched yourself.
Imagine the reaction of the muggles!”
Imagine the reaction of the muggles!”
“I’d rather not break the Statue of Secrecy like that,” she said, getting up,
picking up her clothes and heading towards the bathroom herself.
picking up her clothes and heading towards the bathroom herself.
“That wouldn’t break it — the Obliviators can handle that kind of incident
easily.”
easily.”
She didn’t take long to get ready for the day — or afternoon — herself. A
quick shower, and some cleaning and cosmetic charms and she was done.
quick shower, and some cleaning and cosmetic charms and she was done.
Randall was sitting in the single chair of their room and reading the
newspapers when she stepped out of the bathroom. “Did you find anything
interesting?”
newspapers when she stepped out of the bathroom. “Did you find anything
interesting?”
“No.”
“Are they still hunting us?” Bess asked while sitting down on her bed. It was
a pointless question; the police wouldn’t drop the case.
a pointless question; the police wouldn’t drop the case.
“It’s been a week. Too long for the tabloids to still be focusing on the
fight, not long enough for them to be calling for the head of the
superintendent in charge of the investigation.”
fight, not long enough for them to be calling for the head of the
superintendent in charge of the investigation.”
“Do you think it’s safe to go and hunt the next Death Eater?” She needed to do
something after spending a week basically holed up in the hotel, doing nothing
but talking and watching the telly. Randall didn’t seem to be interested in
shagging either, or maybe he had seen too much of her burned skin while
treating her wounds. She wasn’t certain if she was interested anyway.
something after spending a week basically holed up in the hotel, doing nothing
but talking and watching the telly. Randall didn’t seem to be interested in
shagging either, or maybe he had seen too much of her burned skin while
treating her wounds. She wasn’t certain if she was interested anyway.
“Safe? No.” He shook his head, and her hopes fell. Then he grinned. “Hunting
Death Eaters is never safe. But I doubt that the police have made the
connection between the wards and the fight, so we shouldn’t have trouble with
the muggle authorities while investigating the next flat.”
Death Eaters is never safe. But I doubt that the police have made the
connection between the wards and the fight, so we shouldn’t have trouble with
the muggle authorities while investigating the next flat.”
She huffed at him for pulling her leg like that, but she was grinning.
It was time to hunt again!
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 29th, 1997**
“An impressive reception, Madam Minister. Especially considering your
circumstances.” Beaumont raised her glass while she made a show of letting her
gaze wander over the Atrium of the Ministry.
circumstances.” Beaumont raised her glass while she made a show of letting her
gaze wander over the Atrium of the Ministry.
“Thank you, Madam.” Amelia Bones smiled politely at the witch. “But what
circumstances do you mean? The fact that your colleague has still not been
seen after his attempted attack on Hogwarts?”
circumstances do you mean? The fact that your colleague has still not been
seen after his attempted attack on Hogwarts?”
The delegate’s fake smile didn’t even waver. “I’m talking about the resumption
of hostilities in your civil war. That throws some doubt upon Britain’s
ability to uphold the Statute of Secrecy.”
of hostilities in your civil war. That throws some doubt upon Britain’s
ability to uphold the Statute of Secrecy.”
Amelia scoffed. “Do you consider any arrest made by your Gendarmes Magiques an
act of war as well, then? Five dark wizards last year in Marseille alone, I
think, according to your own words to my Head of the DMLE last week. Not
counting the two repelled raids by Barbary Coast wizards on the Côte d’Azur.”
act of war as well, then? Five dark wizards last year in Marseille alone, I
think, according to your own words to my Head of the DMLE last week. Not
counting the two repelled raids by Barbary Coast wizards on the Côte d’Azur.”
This time Beaumont frowned. “There were no Aurors involved in the attack on
Mister Nott and there were no arrests made. It was at best a vigilante action
by remnant elements of a faction from your civil war.”
Mister Nott and there were no arrests made. It was at best a vigilante action
by remnant elements of a faction from your civil war.”
“I wasn’t aware that French wizards were the kind to meekly call for the
Gendarmes when attacked,” Amelia retorted, “instead of pursuing fleeing
attackers. But perhaps I was mistaken about the famous French élan.”
Gendarmes when attacked,” Amelia retorted, “instead of pursuing fleeing
attackers. But perhaps I was mistaken about the famous French élan.”
“There’s a difference between pursuing a fleeing thief or assailant and an
attack on a manor by an organised group.” Beaumont sniffed. “Are you honestly
trying to tell me that you support this kind of vigilante action?”
attack on a manor by an organised group.” Beaumont sniffed. “Are you honestly
trying to tell me that you support this kind of vigilante action?”
“The Ministry’s position is and has been for years that if no Aurors are
present, any British wizard or witch has the right to apprehend criminals
caught in the act,” Amelia quoted. She was entirely correct — though not many
would have included taking and destroying an entire manor in that clause. She
bared her teeth in a poor facsimile of a smile. As much as she loathed
defending Black’s actions, she hated the meddling French witch even more. This
reception should have been the celebration of the ICW inspection concluding.
But both Beaumont and Steiner were using the recent events as a pretext to
prolong their stay.
present, any British wizard or witch has the right to apprehend criminals
caught in the act,” Amelia quoted. She was entirely correct — though not many
would have included taking and destroying an entire manor in that clause. She
bared her teeth in a poor facsimile of a smile. As much as she loathed
defending Black’s actions, she hated the meddling French witch even more. This
reception should have been the celebration of the ICW inspection concluding.
But both Beaumont and Steiner were using the recent events as a pretext to
prolong their stay.
“Oh, but isn’t that the core of Britain’s troubles? That the war was so costly
that there are not enough Aurors available any more to enforce the law?” The
French witch tilted her head slightly to the side and smiled with fake
sympathy.
that there are not enough Aurors available any more to enforce the law?” The
French witch tilted her head slightly to the side and smiled with fake
sympathy.
“Recruitment and training are going well. As you have seen, volunteers are
supporting the Aurors in the meantime. They even managed to foil an attempted
sacrificial ritual by a colleague of yours. To think that someone would abuse
the mandate of the ICW in such a despicable fashion to strike at a school full
of children…” Amelia shook her head in equally fake concern. “It makes you
wonder what else might have been happening during this inspection.”
supporting the Aurors in the meantime. They even managed to foil an attempted
sacrificial ritual by a colleague of yours. To think that someone would abuse
the mandate of the ICW in such a despicable fashion to strike at a school full
of children…” Amelia shook her head in equally fake concern. “It makes you
wonder what else might have been happening during this inspection.”
Beaumont wasn’t smiling any more. “Are you insinuating that either I or my
Prussian colleague are preparing blood sacrifices?”
Prussian colleague are preparing blood sacrifices?”
“Of course not,” Amelia said. “I was talking about the sacrificial rituals
Reid conducted before he was stopped. We have found multiple disappearances of
muggles that we think are connected to his actions. Not exactly the kind of
conduct expected of an ICW delegate. One might wonder why you were not aware
of this. And why you insist on prolonging your inspection with the weakest of
pretexts.” She wasn’t even pretending to be polite any more. She was simply
too sick of all the plotting and lying and the backstabbing. She wanted these
foreign meddlers gone from Britain so she could concentrate on rebuilding the
country before Black started to tear down even more of it.
Reid conducted before he was stopped. We have found multiple disappearances of
muggles that we think are connected to his actions. Not exactly the kind of
conduct expected of an ICW delegate. One might wonder why you were not aware
of this. And why you insist on prolonging your inspection with the weakest of
pretexts.” She wasn’t even pretending to be polite any more. She was simply
too sick of all the plotting and lying and the backstabbing. She wanted these
foreign meddlers gone from Britain so she could concentrate on rebuilding the
country before Black started to tear down even more of it.
“Are you accusing me of abusing my mandate?” Beaumont scoffed. “That’s a quite
transparent attempt to shift the blame and hide your deficiencies. It will not
work, Madam Minister. We, that is the ICW, will get to the bottom of this
affair.” Without giving Amelia a chance to respond she turned away.
transparent attempt to shift the blame and hide your deficiencies. It will not
work, Madam Minister. We, that is the ICW, will get to the bottom of this
affair.” Without giving Amelia a chance to respond she turned away.
“She seems more easily rattled than at the beginning of the inspection.”
Amelia didn’t have to turn her head to know Pius had stepped up to her side
and had observed the whole exchange. She shrugged. “She could be faking it, to
make us think she’s nervous.”
and had observed the whole exchange. She shrugged. “She could be faking it, to
make us think she’s nervous.”
“To what purpose? It would only make her look guilty.”
“But why would she be nervous? We don’t really have anything on her, or her
country.” Amelia turned to look at Pius. “Unless you’ve been withholding
information from me.” She narrowed her eyes — he would do that, if he thought
that it would serve his goals and that he could get away with it. She had done
the same, some of the time, when dealing with Cornelius.
country.” Amelia turned to look at Pius. “Unless you’ve been withholding
information from me.” She narrowed her eyes — he would do that, if he thought
that it would serve his goals and that he could get away with it. She had done
the same, some of the time, when dealing with Cornelius.
He shook his head, then cast a privacy spell. “I just received this news: A
muggle yacht that went missing the day after the Hogwarts incident has been
found wrecked on the coast of France. According to the report from my French
colleague, there were traces of magic found on the ship — and blood from
several people.”
muggle yacht that went missing the day after the Hogwarts incident has been
found wrecked on the coast of France. According to the report from my French
colleague, there were traces of magic found on the ship — and blood from
several people.”
“Reid.”
“The timing would indicate that, but there are, of course, other possible
suspects as well.”
suspects as well.”
Rookwood, for one. But Amelia had been an Auror for most of her life. She’d
bet Galleons to Sickles that Reid had gone to France.
bet Galleons to Sickles that Reid had gone to France.
But whether he had gone to co-conspirators there, or simply used the country
as the most expedient way to return to the Caribbean, she couldn’t tell. “Have
you told Black this?”
as the most expedient way to return to the Caribbean, she couldn’t tell. “Have
you told Black this?”
“I did. He left the reception shortly afterwards, citing a stomach ache.”
“He did?” Amelia frowned. “That’s unlike him.”
“He might be suffering from a curse or a wound received during the attack on
Nott Manor.”
Nott Manor.”
Amelia didn’t think that was likely. Not unless Nott had been far more into
the Dark Arts than preliminary reports indicated. Which was not impossible, of
course. “Look into it.” She spotted Greengrass and Davis in a corner, talking
with a crony of Malfoy’s, and added: “And increase your efforts against those
two.”
the Dark Arts than preliminary reports indicated. Which was not impossible, of
course. “Look into it.” She spotted Greengrass and Davis in a corner, talking
with a crony of Malfoy’s, and added: “And increase your efforts against those
two.”
She might not have much time left until the Wizengamot would fall to Black and
remove her, but she would spend all she had doing her duty.
remove her, but she would spend all she had doing her duty.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 29th, 1997**
“*… and the brutal murder of Theodore Nott is but one example of what we have
to expect should the muggleborns not be brought to heel. Violent criminals are
already running rampant in Diagon Alley, evicting law-abiding wizards and
witches — both purebloods and half-bloods — from their homes and looting their
shops. Businesses are hurting since their customers cannot walk through Diagon
Alley any more without getting harassed, or worse!*
to expect should the muggleborns not be brought to heel. Violent criminals are
already running rampant in Diagon Alley, evicting law-abiding wizards and
witches — both purebloods and half-bloods — from their homes and looting their
shops. Businesses are hurting since their customers cannot walk through Diagon
Alley any more without getting harassed, or worse!*
“*The Ministry has lost too many Aurors and Hit-Wizards in the war, often at
the hand of muggleborns, to uphold law and order any more! It falls on all of
us witches and wizards to support the Ministry to prevent our country from
falling into anarchy!*
the hand of muggleborns, to uphold law and order any more! It falls on all of
us witches and wizards to support the Ministry to prevent our country from
falling into anarchy!*
“*Remember our history! Remember our traditions! Do not let the mob rule
Britain! Band together and take back our country from the criminals before
they rule us!*
Britain! Band together and take back our country from the criminals before
they rule us!*
“*This is the first broadcast of the Pureblood Voice!”*
Harry Potter flicked his wand to reduce the volume of the wireless receiver in
his and Ron’s tent when the propaganda broadcast was replaced by the normal
program — the Witching Hour, playing one of Celestina Warbeck’s songs.
his and Ron’s tent when the propaganda broadcast was replaced by the normal
program — the Witching Hour, playing one of Celestina Warbeck’s songs.
“Blimey! They started their own pirate wireless?” Ron shook his head, then
winced, rubbing his shoulder, which had been bruised during the exercise that
afternoon.
winced, rubbing his shoulder, which had been bruised during the exercise that
afternoon.
Harry nodded. “Looks like it. They interrupted the normal program in the
middle of a song, and I don’t think the Wizarding Wireless Network would dare
broadcast this.”
middle of a song, and I don’t think the Wizarding Wireless Network would dare
broadcast this.”
Neville, sitting on the couch in the tent’s living room, cleared his throat.
“Do you think the muggleborns heard it?”
“Do you think the muggleborns heard it?”
Harry shook his head. “I don’t think so. They tend to listen to the muggle
wireless.”
wireless.”
Ron sighed and pointed his wand at his temple, drawing out a silvery strand of
memory. Harry stared at him and Ron answered his unspoken question: “Hermione
will want to listen to it herself.”
memory. Harry stared at him and Ron answered his unspoken question: “Hermione
will want to listen to it herself.”
His friend was right, Harry knew. “Let’s return to Grimmauld Place then.” It
would mean another night away from the Resistance’s recruits, and right before
their mission in London, but it couldn’t be helped.
would mean another night away from the Resistance’s recruits, and right before
their mission in London, but it couldn’t be helped.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 29th, 1997**
“So that’s ‘The Pureblood Voice’…” Harry Potter heard Hermione say when she
pulled her head out of the Pensieve. She chuckled. “If it wasn’t so serious,
it would be ironic — they claim to be fighting for their traditions, and yet
they copy muggleborn tactics where they can.”
pulled her head out of the Pensieve. She chuckled. “If it wasn’t so serious,
it would be ironic — they claim to be fighting for their traditions, and yet
they copy muggleborn tactics where they can.”
He snorted. “Sirius would say that’s typical of the Old Families.”
“They did it with the Hogwarts Express, and the Wireless too,” Ron added. “And
the cars.”
the cars.”
“We have more important things to do than to discuss pureblood hypocrisy,”
Hermione said, taking a deep breath. “If purebloods are forming groups to
attack muggleborns…” She pressed her lips together until they formed a thin
line.
Hermione said, taking a deep breath. “If purebloods are forming groups to
attack muggleborns…” She pressed her lips together until they formed a thin
line.
“… then we’ll be back at war,” Ron finished for her.
“Will the purebloods believe them, though? Everyone knew that Nott was a Death
Eater, even though the Wizengamot let him go,” Harry said. “And he did attack
us after he was acquitted.”
Eater, even though the Wizengamot let him go,” Harry said. “And he did attack
us after he was acquitted.”
“That’s true, but they also know that we killed him, instead of letting the
Aurors arrest him.” Hermione sighed. ‘Not that we had much choice — if we had
left it to the Ministry, they would have bungled the arrest, and we would have
had muggleborn vigilantes, maybe even death squads, as a result.’ She looked
quite grim as she levitated the memory strand back into a vial. “But if the
purebloods — especially those who didn’t mind the persecution of muggleborns —
do believe that we want to hunt them down indiscriminately, they might be
driven to support Malfoy and Runcorn, or simply form their own death squads.”
Aurors arrest him.” Hermione sighed. ‘Not that we had much choice — if we had
left it to the Ministry, they would have bungled the arrest, and we would have
had muggleborn vigilantes, maybe even death squads, as a result.’ She looked
quite grim as she levitated the memory strand back into a vial. “But if the
purebloods — especially those who didn’t mind the persecution of muggleborns —
do believe that we want to hunt them down indiscriminately, they might be
driven to support Malfoy and Runcorn, or simply form their own death squads.”
“Cursed if we do, cursed if we don’t?” Ron shrugged. “Not too many purebloods
will fall for it. Dad’s been talking to people in the Ministry since
Voldemort’s death, and pretty much everyone is glad that the war is over. It’s
mostly the Old Families who still believe these kinds of lies.”
will fall for it. Dad’s been talking to people in the Ministry since
Voldemort’s death, and pretty much everyone is glad that the war is over. It’s
mostly the Old Families who still believe these kinds of lies.”
“But the muggleborns taking back their homes and shops in Diagon Alley wasn’t
well received by everyone,” Harry said. “Many normal purebloods were evicted,
after having bought or rented them from others, and Sirius said that the
Ministry hasn’t made any headway in sorting out that situation.” Which meant
that the evicted tenants or buyers might blame the muggleborns as readily as
the pureblood war profiteers who had seized the buildings after the
muggleborns’ exodus .
well received by everyone,” Harry said. “Many normal purebloods were evicted,
after having bought or rented them from others, and Sirius said that the
Ministry hasn’t made any headway in sorting out that situation.” Which meant
that the evicted tenants or buyers might blame the muggleborns as readily as
the pureblood war profiteers who had seized the buildings after the
muggleborns’ exodus .
“We’ll need to counter these lies with our own broadcast. And an article in
the Prophet and possibly The Quibbler.” Hermione sighed. “It’ll draw attention
to the broadcast, but that can’t be helped.”
the Prophet and possibly The Quibbler.” Hermione sighed. “It’ll draw attention
to the broadcast, but that can’t be helped.”
“Tomorrow’s mission won’t help either,” Harry pointed out. It was like
juggling grenades. They had to appease the radical muggleborns, but mustn’t
drive the bigots into thinking that they had no choice other than to fight.
juggling grenades. They had to appease the radical muggleborns, but mustn’t
drive the bigots into thinking that they had no choice other than to fight.
He heard Neville, who hadn’t said anything so far, hiss at that. “We can’t let
the Death Eaters get away!”
the Death Eaters get away!”
“We won’t let them get away,” Hermione said. “But we might need to hand over
any prisoners — and there will need to be prisoners — to the Ministry.”
any prisoners — and there will need to be prisoners — to the Ministry.”
“They’ll acquit them!” Neville protested. “Like they did with Nott, Greengrass
and Davis!”
and Davis!”
“We can delay any trials until we’ve taken over,” she answered.
“That works — if this whole affair doesn’t slow us down,” Ron pointed out.
Sirius’s absence would slow down their takeover as well, Harry knew. But if
they could prove that the French were behind the latest attacks, then that
should help their cause significantly — many British wizards held more loyalty
towards their country than to their blood status.
they could prove that the French were behind the latest attacks, then that
should help their cause significantly — many British wizards held more loyalty
towards their country than to their blood status.
Of course, Sirius needed to succeed with his undercover mission for that to
happen.
happen.
---
**London, Sutton, March 29th, 1997**
“No wonder the Death Eaters are hiding here,” Bess Cox muttered. “All these
bloody gardens must make them feel as if they’re still living in their
manors!”
bloody gardens must make them feel as if they’re still living in their
manors!”
Randall laughed. “It’s one of the nicer boroughs. But they can’t go into the
gardens — muggles everywhere!” he added in a fake accent.
gardens — muggles everywhere!” he added in a fake accent.
Bess privately wondered just what kind of family Randall was from — he didn’t
seem to feel out of place in this area. Unlike her. She clenched her teeth for
a moment, then let out a breath. “So… where’s the telly trouble here?”
seem to feel out of place in this area. Unlike her. She clenched her teeth for
a moment, then let out a breath. “So… where’s the telly trouble here?”
“We’re almost there,” he said, nodding towards an old three-story house.
Bess squinted at it. “Looks to be in good condition.” Posh too.
“Who would want to hide in derelict houses?” Randall snorted.
Bess didn’t mention that after the Hogsmeade attack, she had hidden in such
houses for a week, afraid to even look for another flat in London. They
approached the building, looking like just another couple out on an afternoon
stroll.
houses for a week, afraid to even look for another flat in London. They
approached the building, looking like just another couple out on an afternoon
stroll.
“The second floor is warded,” Randall whispered as they passed the entrance.
Bess nodded. “How strong are the wards?”
“Haven’t checked yet… let’s sit down on that bench.”
Bess studied the building while Randall, his wand hidden behind a newspaper,
cast a few spells. There was a bookshop on the ground floor, antique books —
she could spot several books in the windows that wouldn’t have looked out of
place at Hogwarts. Separate entrance for the flats on the upper floors, of
course. Sturdy looking door, too. Not that it would stand up to an Unlocking
Charm. There was a small alley on one side.
cast a few spells. There was a bookshop on the ground floor, antique books —
she could spot several books in the windows that wouldn’t have looked out of
place at Hogwarts. Separate entrance for the flats on the upper floors, of
course. Sturdy looking door, too. Not that it would stand up to an Unlocking
Charm. There was a small alley on one side.
“The wards aren’t as strong as the ones on the last flat,” Randall whispered
after a few minutes.
after a few minutes.
“How long would you need to take them down?”
“About an hour,” Randall replied. “But I’m not planning on taking the wards
down.”
down.”
“What?” Was he planning to use a bomb? But that would destroy the building.
And probably the one adjacent to it.
And probably the one adjacent to it.
“One Death Eater was enough to almost kill both of us. We can’t attack the
flat by ourselves.”
flat by ourselves.”
He was right, of course, though Bess hated to admit it. She wanted to hurt the
damn pureblood bastards! “Why did we come here, then? Just to watch the damn
building?”
damn pureblood bastards! “Why did we come here, then? Just to watch the damn
building?”
“Not exactly,” Randall said. “I have a plan.”
---
**Yorkshire, Bones Manor, March 30th, 1997**
“Are you working again today, Auntie?”
Amelia Bones didn’t wince when she heard her niece’s question at breakfast,
and the guilt she felt at leaving Susan alone was easily suppressed. “I’m
sorry, but I need to deal with another crisis.”
and the guilt she felt at leaving Susan alone was easily suppressed. “I’m
sorry, but I need to deal with another crisis.”
“The Pureblood Voice?” Susan asked, setting down her glass of pumpkin juice.
“We were listening to the Witching Hour at Hannah’s,” she added.
“We were listening to the Witching Hour at Hannah’s,” she added.
“Yes.”
Susan pouted. “Can’t that wait until tomorrow? It’s just some broadcast.”
“A broadcast that could start another war,” Amelia said.
“You’re the Minister.” Susan was frowning now. “You don’t need to go to work
to tell Thicknesse to do something about it. I’ve been home for a week now and
you’ve always been at work!”
to tell Thicknesse to do something about it. I’ve been home for a week now and
you’ve always been at work!”
She pressed her lips together and lifted her cup to gain a moment to control
herself. It wouldn’t do to complain about Pius in front of Susan. “I cannot
expect my people to work on a Sunday if I don’t.” That wasn’t how she had led
the DMLE, and it wasn’t how she led the Ministry.
herself. It wouldn’t do to complain about Pius in front of Susan. “I cannot
expect my people to work on a Sunday if I don’t.” That wasn’t how she had led
the DMLE, and it wasn’t how she led the Ministry.
Susan’s frown deepened, then her niece looked away and scowled at her plate.
Amelia sighed. She didn’t like leaving the last remaining member of her family
alone, but she was not a witch to put her personal life before her duty to her
country.
Amelia sighed. She didn’t like leaving the last remaining member of her family
alone, but she was not a witch to put her personal life before her duty to her
country.
“I’m sorry,” she said. Nothing else was said by either of them until they
finished their meal and Amelia left for work.
finished their meal and Amelia left for work.
---
There were new letters waiting on her desk when she arrived in her office. She
had expected that, of course. Sifting through them, she read the one from the
Wizarding Wireless Network first. They wanted the broadcasts stopped and they
wanted Aurors to protect them in the event that the muggleborns blamed them
for the Pureblood Voice.
had expected that, of course. Sifting through them, she read the one from the
Wizarding Wireless Network first. They wanted the broadcasts stopped and they
wanted Aurors to protect them in the event that the muggleborns blamed them
for the Pureblood Voice.
Shaking her head, she pushed it to the side. The Ministry couldn’t spare the
wands for such a task. And stopping the broadcast? They hadn’t managed to stop
the Resistance Radio despite months of effort. Trying to stop the Death Eaters
wouldn’t be any more successful. Unless they were quite a bit less competent
than the muggleborns… which, Amelia had to admit, was possible. Not likely,
but possible. She wrote a quick memo for Pius. He wouldn’t like it — Amelia
had hated it when Fudge had tried to micromanage her department — but he’d
follow her instructions anyway. She grinned at the thought — it was petty, but
Pius deserved it.
wands for such a task. And stopping the broadcast? They hadn’t managed to stop
the Resistance Radio despite months of effort. Trying to stop the Death Eaters
wouldn’t be any more successful. Unless they were quite a bit less competent
than the muggleborns… which, Amelia had to admit, was possible. Not likely,
but possible. She wrote a quick memo for Pius. He wouldn’t like it — Amelia
had hated it when Fudge had tried to micromanage her department — but he’d
follow her instructions anyway. She grinned at the thought — it was petty, but
Pius deserved it.
She skimmed the other letters. Various members of the Wizengamot voicing their
concerns. Allies of Black. None from the man himself, though she had no doubt
that the infuriating wizard would use the opportunity to make the Ministry
look incompetent again. Maybe he’d offer the Resistance’s help on the grounds
that they knew how to pirate broadcasts.
concerns. Allies of Black. None from the man himself, though she had no doubt
that the infuriating wizard would use the opportunity to make the Ministry
look incompetent again. Maybe he’d offer the Resistance’s help on the grounds
that they knew how to pirate broadcasts.
She shook her head as she penned a few quick answers. Nothing substantial,
just empty words.
just empty words.
Which, she thought as she banished the stack of letters to the out box, pretty
much summed up most of her work as Minister these days.
much summed up most of her work as Minister these days.
---
**London, Ealing, March 30th, 1997**
“Follow the plan,” Ron Weasley heard Hermione say into her radio, next to him
in the scuffed backyard. “Eric, Emily — start casting.” Both of them, as well
as the others in their group, were disillusioned, spell markers showing their
positions. Ron focused on the building in front of him. The target was on the
second floor.
in the scuffed backyard. “Eric, Emily — start casting.” Both of them, as well
as the others in their group, were disillusioned, spell markers showing their
positions. Ron focused on the building in front of him. The target was on the
second floor.
“Yes, Ma’am,” Eric answered, and Ron knew that Hermione was rolling her eyes
at the slightly joking tone.
at the slightly joking tone.
A minute passed while the two Resistance members layered Anti-Apparition and
Anti-Portkey Jinxes, as well as spells to block Floo travel, over the entire
building.
Anti-Portkey Jinxes, as well as spells to block Floo travel, over the entire
building.
“Done!” Emily announced over the radio.
Hermione pulled away from Ron. “Breach team, move in!” she ordered, and Ron
and the others started towards the building, passing two shiny bicycles parked
near the fence cutting the yard in two.
and the others started towards the building, passing two shiny bicycles parked
near the fence cutting the yard in two.
“No movement up top,” Connor reported from his broom in the air above the
building.
building.
“Nothing in front either,” Celia said. The witch was with Eric and Emily, and
keeping an eye on the front as well as on the two recruits.
keeping an eye on the front as well as on the two recruits.
Harry was the first to reach the back door and Ron heard it unlock a second
later. As planned. He cast a Shield Charm, then grabbed the handle with his
left hand. “Ready!”
later. As planned. He cast a Shield Charm, then grabbed the handle with his
left hand. “Ready!”
Harry’s marker moved a bit, then Ron heard his friend’s voice: “Go!”
He pushed the door open and Harry’s marker slipped inside. Ron followed.
“Stairs are empty,” he whispered into his radio mic. His friend was already
going up the stairs.
“Stairs are empty,” he whispered into his radio mic. His friend was already
going up the stairs.
They reached the second floor in thirty seconds and took cover on the flight
of stairs, Hermione and Neville behind them. Ron heard her mutter a spell,
then announce “Muggle-Repelling Charms set. Breakers, start on the wards!”
of stairs, Hermione and Neville behind them. Ron heard her mutter a spell,
then announce “Muggle-Repelling Charms set. Breakers, start on the wards!”
None of the muggle tenants would bother them now while Anna, Gary and Sinclair
worked on the wards. Which would take a while. Ron took a deep breath and
forced himself not to fidget, even though no one could see him.
worked on the wards. Which would take a while. Ron took a deep breath and
forced himself not to fidget, even though no one could see him.
“Nothing in the air,” Connor reported a few minutes later.
“Nothing in the front,” Celia added.
“Back of the building still clear,” Mary-Jane chimed in.
Ron was tempted to add ‘and the wards are still up’, but he controlled
himself. It wouldn’t take that long to break through the wards, he told
himself.
himself. It wouldn’t take that long to break through the wards, he told
himself.
---
It took almost half an hour for the three recruits to take down the wards. Ron
was certain that Hermione could have done it in half the time. Or less, with
the right support. But this was supposed to be the new members’ first mission.
was certain that Hermione could have done it in half the time. Or less, with
the right support. But this was supposed to be the new members’ first mission.
“Wards down!” Gary announced, and his tone betrayed his exhaustion.
Ron slipped his hand into his enchanted pocket and grabbed a grenade. “Ready,”
he announced.
he announced.
“Windows charmed!” Connor reported.
“Go in!” Hermione ordered. A second later, Harry blasted the door open. Ron
threw the flashbang inside. Compared to passing the Quaffle to a speeding
Chaser, this was easy.
threw the flashbang inside. Compared to passing the Quaffle to a speeding
Chaser, this was easy.
The grenade went off and he heard a scream from inside. Harry’s marker dashed
inside, moving to the left. Ron jumped after him, taking the right. A yellow
curse flew past him. A wizard was standing in the doorway to the living room,
wand extended. Ron’s Piercing Curse shattered his shield, and a Stunner from
Harry took him down.
inside, moving to the left. Ron jumped after him, taking the right. A yellow
curse flew past him. A wizard was standing in the doorway to the living room,
wand extended. Ron’s Piercing Curse shattered his shield, and a Stunner from
Harry took him down.
Ron heard more screams. High-pitched ones. Harry’s marker moved forward, and
Ron cursed under his breath. His friend was acting like the French again. Or
not — he jumped past the doorway, further down the hallway, and suddenly, the
wall in front of them vanished, replaced by a hole.
Ron cursed under his breath. His friend was acting like the French again. Or
not — he jumped past the doorway, further down the hallway, and suddenly, the
wall in front of them vanished, replaced by a hole.
In the living room, a witch was turning around, eyes wide with fear. She
didn’t get past the first syllable of whatever spell she was casting before
Ron banished her into the wall, then stunned her before she could recover.
didn’t get past the first syllable of whatever spell she was casting before
Ron banished her into the wall, then stunned her before she could recover.
Then he noticed the crying children hidden behind the couch.
---
Ten minutes and two doses of Veritaserum later, they knew the wizard was
Aloysius Fleaweather, a former employee of Abbot Greenhouses, who had
supported Voldemort financially before he went into hiding with his family a
few months ago. Like his wife, the wizard had been willing to spend gold for
the cause, but balked at actually murdering people. Though judging by how
pitifully he had fought, he wouldn’t have been much good at it anyway. And
unfortunately, the Death Eaters he had been in contact with had already all
been killed, and he didn’t know where any others might be hiding.
Aloysius Fleaweather, a former employee of Abbot Greenhouses, who had
supported Voldemort financially before he went into hiding with his family a
few months ago. Like his wife, the wizard had been willing to spend gold for
the cause, but balked at actually murdering people. Though judging by how
pitifully he had fought, he wouldn’t have been much good at it anyway. And
unfortunately, the Death Eaters he had been in contact with had already all
been killed, and he didn’t know where any others might be hiding.
Hermione sneered at the still dazed couple. “Hypocrites.”
Ron sighed. He was glad that they had caught a Death Eater, or at least a
supporter, but the knowledge didn’t help much with making him feel less guilty
about attacking a family.
supporter, but the knowledge didn’t help much with making him feel less guilty
about attacking a family.
“Their gold paid for Voldemort’s murderers.” Hermione knew him well.
He shrugged. “I know that, but I still feel bad about the kids.”
“They’re only stunned,” Hermione said. “Less risk of accidental magic that
way.”
way.”
“Quieter too,” Harry added, though his joke felt a bit forced to Ron.
“Anyway, we’ll pass them on to the Ministry. They can find a place for the
children while they interrogate the parents.” Hermione turned to the
Resistance members in the room. “Good work, everyone! We’ll do the debriefing
at the camp.”
children while they interrogate the parents.” Hermione turned to the
Resistance members in the room. “Good work, everyone! We’ll do the debriefing
at the camp.”
Most of the recruits smiled, a few even cheered, but not all of them. “The
Ministry’ll just set them free again,” Gary said with a scowl.
Ministry’ll just set them free again,” Gary said with a scowl.
“If they do, it will expose their own corruption,” Hermione retorted, “which
will only help us take over more quickly. Now move — we’ve spent enough time
here!”
will only help us take over more quickly. Now move — we’ve spent enough time
here!”
Ron couldn’t tell whether or not she wanted that to happen. He didn’t care
either way. He just hoped that next time there wouldn’t be any kids around.
either way. He just hoped that next time there wouldn’t be any kids around.
---
**London, Sutton, March 30th, 1997**
Bess Cox rang the doorbell, hoping no one would answer. That would make things
much easier, in her opinion. A simple Unlocking Charm to get in, a
Muggle-Repelling Charm to keep the first floor tenants from returning, and
they’d have all the time they needed and no witnesses to worry about — her
disguise wasn’t the best.
much easier, in her opinion. A simple Unlocking Charm to get in, a
Muggle-Repelling Charm to keep the first floor tenants from returning, and
they’d have all the time they needed and no witnesses to worry about — her
disguise wasn’t the best.
Unfortunately, the tenants were home. Or at least one of them was. The door
opened and a middle-aged woman peered at them through the gap. “May I help
you?”
opened and a middle-aged woman peered at them through the gap. “May I help
you?”
Bess shook her head. “No, you can’t.”
The woman blinked, confused. “Pardon…” Randall’s Stunner cut off whatever she
was about to say, and Bess caught the woman’s limp body before she fell to the
floor and stepped inside. Her friend followed at once, locking the door behind
them.
was about to say, and Bess caught the woman’s limp body before she fell to the
floor and stepped inside. Her friend followed at once, locking the door behind
them.
“Mum? Who is…” A little girl walked out of the kitchen. When she saw them
holding her mother, her eye went wide.
holding her mother, her eye went wide.
“Stupefy!” Randall’s spell hit the girl before she could scream.
She quickly searched the flat, but found no one else. “Do you think this is
everyone?” She nodded at the two muggles on the floor.
everyone?” She nodded at the two muggles on the floor.
Randall nodded. “I think so. Her bed is big enough for two, but the pictures
on the desk don’t show anyone other than the two of them. At least the recent
ones.”
on the desk don’t show anyone other than the two of them. At least the recent
ones.”
“Thank you, Sherlock,” Bess said, snickering.
He chuckled, then pointed his wand at the two unconscious people. “Obliviate.
Let’s move them to their beds, so they think they just took a nap when they
wake up.”
Let’s move them to their beds, so they think they just took a nap when they
wake up.”
“Alright,” Bess agreed. “Wingardium Leviosa!” She carefully guided the girl to
her bed while Randall did the same with the mother, then returned to the
living room and cast a Muggle-Repelling Charm on the flat.
her bed while Randall did the same with the mother, then returned to the
living room and cast a Muggle-Repelling Charm on the flat.
Randall looked at the ceiling, then at the room and frowned. “I guess hoping
that they forgot to ward their floor was too optimistic.” He sighed. “Plan B
it is.”
that they forgot to ward their floor was too optimistic.” He sighed. “Plan B
it is.”
Which meant that they would have to drill through the pipes. Bess pulled out
the power tool they had brought with them while Randall started searching for
the pipes leading into the flat above with the help of a bit of
transfiguration. That actually took longer than drilling through the pipe with
the silenced tool, but after half an hour there was a small hole leading into
the flat above them. It was still warded, but, as Randall had found out
yesterday, the wards were weak and didn’t cover gases.
the power tool they had brought with them while Randall started searching for
the pipes leading into the flat above with the help of a bit of
transfiguration. That actually took longer than drilling through the pipe with
the silenced tool, but after half an hour there was a small hole leading into
the flat above them. It was still warded, but, as Randall had found out
yesterday, the wards were weak and didn’t cover gases.
Or poison, Bess thought as Randall pulled out a reddish vial from his pocket.
---
**La Bresse, Chateau de Damas, France, March 30th, 1997**
“Welcome to my home, Monsieur Anderson,” Marie de Damas said. “I’m very glad
you accepted my invitation.”
you accepted my invitation.”
“The pleasure is all mine, Mademoiselle de Damas,” Sirius Black said, bowing
with a flourish — but not too much of a flourish; he was acting the part of an
American, after all. “I’m honoured that you were kind enough to invite a poor
émigré to your home.” And it was an impressive home, indeed. The de Damas were
not just old, but rich, if even a cadet branch lived in such a manor.
with a flourish — but not too much of a flourish; he was acting the part of an
American, after all. “I’m honoured that you were kind enough to invite a poor
émigré to your home.” And it was an impressive home, indeed. The de Damas were
not just old, but rich, if even a cadet branch lived in such a manor.
De Damas laughed, well aware that ‘Anderson’ was anything but poor. But forms
had to be observed. “The other guests are already in the salon. If you’ll
follow me?”
had to be observed. “The other guests are already in the salon. If you’ll
follow me?”
“With pleasure,” Sirius replied.
He walked next to the witch, making the appropriate appreciative remarks when
they passed a particularly noteworthy portrait or piece of furniture, though
he took care to overlook a few pieces to reinforce the notion that Anderson
wasn’t that refined.
they passed a particularly noteworthy portrait or piece of furniture, though
he took care to overlook a few pieces to reinforce the notion that Anderson
wasn’t that refined.
The other guests, ten by his count, were mostly French witches, half of them
sporting wide smiles he doubted were sincere. There were also three wizards —
husbands, if his impression was correct.
sporting wide smiles he doubted were sincere. There were also three wizards —
husbands, if his impression was correct.
And Dubois.
Sirius’s own smile widened — only slightly, of course. It wouldn’t do to
appear too eager. But he glanced at her a few times while de Damas presented
him to the other guests, until it was her turn.
appear too eager. But he glanced at her a few times while de Damas presented
him to the other guests, until it was her turn.
“Monsieur Anderson, this is my friend Isabelle Dubois. Isabelle, this is
Monsieur Anderson.”
Monsieur Anderson.”
“Enchanté, Mademoiselle,” Sirius murmured, kissing her hand. “I think we have
met before, at the Comte de Hornes’s ball.”
met before, at the Comte de Hornes’s ball.”
“We did indeed.”
“I must apologise for my manners on that occasion. I was hounded by that…
Veela, as you may have noticed, and I’m afraid to say that I almost lost my
temper.” He didn’t quite sneer when he mentioned Lydia, but his tone conveyed
the same sentiment.
Veela, as you may have noticed, and I’m afraid to say that I almost lost my
temper.” He didn’t quite sneer when he mentioned Lydia, but his tone conveyed
the same sentiment.
“Understandable, Monsieur. I am, to my regret, familiar with the likes of
her.” Dubois’s smile showed her teeth.
her.” Dubois’s smile showed her teeth.
“Oh?” He tilted his head slightly to the side.
“Indeed. Veela have a certain reputation in France.”
“Please, Isabelle, let those histories rest for the evening.” Sirius noticed
that de Damas’s smile had grown a bit toothy as well.
that de Damas’s smile had grown a bit toothy as well.
“Of course, Marie.”
Sirius glanced at Dubois while Marie summoned a waiter with a snap of her
fingers and raised his eyebrows.
fingers and raised his eyebrows.
He caught her whispered “later”, and smiled.
---
“We meet again on a terrace,” Sirius said with a grin when he spotted Dubois
leaning against the railing overlooking the garden.
leaning against the railing overlooking the garden.
“And once more you seem to be evading pursuit,” the witch responded.
He sighed loudly. “She wasn’t quite as annoying as that Veela, but still…” He
shrugged. “I’m not looking for a wife.”
shrugged. “I’m not looking for a wife.”
“Certainly not as hard as she is looking for a husband. I wonder why Marie
invited her in the first place.” Dubois shook her head.
invited her in the first place.” Dubois shook her head.
Sirius shrugged again. “I wouldn’t know — I haven’t been in your lovely
country for long.” He leaned back against the railing. “But I’m grateful to be
here.”
country for long.” He leaned back against the railing. “But I’m grateful to be
here.”
She nodded. “Are you planning to stay, or to return to your home?”
He let out a breath and raised his head to look at the stars above them. “I
haven’t made any plans since my arrival, other than to enjoy my life for now.”
He looked at her again, flashing a smile. “You only really learn to appreciate
something after almost losing it.”
haven’t made any plans since my arrival, other than to enjoy my life for now.”
He looked at her again, flashing a smile. “You only really learn to appreciate
something after almost losing it.”
“Oh? What prompted this?”
“Ah, let me tell you a story…”
Sirius went through his prepared, entertaining and utterly fictional backstory
while Isabelle commented at the right places with innuendos. It should have
been easy to flirt with her — she was a beautiful witch, witty too, and
dangerous as well. A true femme fatale.
while Isabelle commented at the right places with innuendos. It should have
been easy to flirt with her — she was a beautiful witch, witty too, and
dangerous as well. A true femme fatale.
But he felt more guilt than excitement. And concern.
Vivienne had said that she approved of this mission, and knew what it would
entail, but Sirius knew that him flirting with, seducing Dubois was hurting
her. He didn’t like it either, but there was no one else who could do it.
Harry certainly lacked the experience and Remus lacked the attitude and
spirit.
entail, but Sirius knew that him flirting with, seducing Dubois was hurting
her. He didn’t like it either, but there was no one else who could do it.
Harry certainly lacked the experience and Remus lacked the attitude and
spirit.
But too much was at stake, he thought while he stepped closer to Dubois, who
put her hand on his chest, caressing it until he grasped it and lifted it to
his lips.
put her hand on his chest, caressing it until he grasped it and lifted it to
his lips.
Too much.
---
**Anotto Bay, Jamaica, March 30th, 1997**
He saw a grandiose — no, gaudy — entrance hall with gilded windows. A corridor
lined with half a dozen attractive men and women, dressed in servant’s garb.
No, they were muggles, animals posing as humans. Zombies, under the control of
the mambo — the female houngan — who owned the manor. Whose family had stolen
the manor during the Maroon Rebellion.
lined with half a dozen attractive men and women, dressed in servant’s garb.
No, they were muggles, animals posing as humans. Zombies, under the control of
the mambo — the female houngan — who owned the manor. Whose family had stolen
the manor during the Maroon Rebellion.
Augustus Rookwood cursed whatever had made ‘Ricky’ so resistant to the usual
interrogation methods. He was a skilled Legilimens, but sifting through the
memories of the thug he had captured was proving to be far more tiresome than
anticipated. Knowing the interior layout of the manor wouldn’t do him any good
if he didn’t know where in Jamaica the damn building was to be found!
interrogation methods. He was a skilled Legilimens, but sifting through the
memories of the thug he had captured was proving to be far more tiresome than
anticipated. Knowing the interior layout of the manor wouldn’t do him any good
if he didn’t know where in Jamaica the damn building was to be found!
Breathing heavily, he focused on his captive’s mind once more, bending it to
his will. No mere thug would stand in his way! Windows… he caught a glimpse of
a terrace. A gazebo in the background. Hadn’t the damn thug ever set foot
outside the manor? Was the mambo that cautious?
his will. No mere thug would stand in his way! Windows… he caught a glimpse of
a terrace. A gazebo in the background. Hadn’t the damn thug ever set foot
outside the manor? Was the mambo that cautious?
Another memory of the thug’s rutting rose, one of a dozen; the man was a
deviant, and he was about brush it away when he caught sight of the grass in
the memory. Steeling himself, he dived into the memory instead.
deviant, and he was about brush it away when he caught sight of the grass in
the memory. Steeling himself, he dived into the memory instead.
He found himself on a cart filled with hay, with yet another female servant. A
disgusting sight for any pureblood wizard, but he didn’t focus on it. Instead,
he looked at the manor in the background, on a small hill, and committed the
sight to his memory.
disgusting sight for any pureblood wizard, but he didn’t focus on it. Instead,
he looked at the manor in the background, on a small hill, and committed the
sight to his memory.
Sighing with relief, he closed his eyes, breaking the spell. He took a few
deep breaths while he recovered. He had done it. He knew where his target
lived.
deep breaths while he recovered. He had done it. He knew where his target
lived.
Smiling, he pointed his wand at the drooling thug in front of him.
“Avada Kedavra.”
Chapter 58: Entrapment
======================
I’d like to thank fredfred and Otium for betaing. They improved the story a
lot.
lot.
---
**Chapter 58: Entrapment**
*‘While the guerilla tactics and attempts at psychological warfare had their
roots in the Dark Lord’s tactics during the First Blood War, merely adapted to
the changed circumstances following the Battle of Diagon Alley, the so-called
’Pureblood Voice’ was nothing but a blatant attempt to copy the Resistance
Radio. Some of my colleagues see this attempt at using muggleborn tactics in
order to achieve the goals of the blood purity ideology as a sign of
hypocrisy. I wouldn’t go that far — in any war, those who make tactical and
strategic decisions based solely upon their ideology, without regard for the
necessities of the situation, are generally at a fairly major disadvantage
compared to those who do not so handicap themselves. Ultimately, even those
among the Dark Lord’s followers who were so fanatical that they decided to
fight on after his death adapted muggleborn ideas rather than conceding defeat
— something that can be seen as a defeat in itself, given their stated goal of
ridding Britain of muggleborns and their influence.’*
roots in the Dark Lord’s tactics during the First Blood War, merely adapted to
the changed circumstances following the Battle of Diagon Alley, the so-called
’Pureblood Voice’ was nothing but a blatant attempt to copy the Resistance
Radio. Some of my colleagues see this attempt at using muggleborn tactics in
order to achieve the goals of the blood purity ideology as a sign of
hypocrisy. I wouldn’t go that far — in any war, those who make tactical and
strategic decisions based solely upon their ideology, without regard for the
necessities of the situation, are generally at a fairly major disadvantage
compared to those who do not so handicap themselves. Ultimately, even those
among the Dark Lord’s followers who were so fanatical that they decided to
fight on after his death adapted muggleborn ideas rather than conceding defeat
— something that can be seen as a defeat in itself, given their stated goal of
ridding Britain of muggleborns and their influence.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, Sutton, March 30th, 1997**
“Alright… here goes…”
Bess Cox bit her lower lip as she watched Randall pour the vial’s content into
a small beaker-shaped cauldron. If he spilled it… She held her breath until he
pulled a rubber tube over the beaker’s top. “Whew.”
a small beaker-shaped cauldron. If he spilled it… She held her breath until he
pulled a rubber tube over the beaker’s top. “Whew.”
He glanced at her. “Even if it had turned into a gas without being heated, it
wouldn’t have killed us. Just laid us out for a few hours.”
wouldn’t have killed us. Just laid us out for a few hours.”
“It lasts half a day, you said,” she retorted.
“At the proper dose. A drop or two wouldn’t have the same effect.”
“If you were knocked unconscious, you’d have spilled the rest as well.”
Frowning, he huffed. “As I said, without being heated, it will not turn into a
gas.”
gas.”
“Why didn’t anyone else use this kind of poison?” Bess could think of a few
possible uses.
possible uses.
“A Bubble-Head Charm will protect you against it, and a bezoar will counter
its effects,” Randall explained, slowly setting the cauldron down on the
burner he had prepared. “Also, it’s rather expensive.”
its effects,” Randall explained, slowly setting the cauldron down on the
burner he had prepared. “Also, it’s rather expensive.”
“How much did you pay for it?” Bess had grown up in a poor family, and the
thought of paying so much for such a thing wasn’t a comforting one. She was
still a wanted witch, after all, and would have trouble finding a job.
thought of paying so much for such a thing wasn’t a comforting one. She was
still a wanted witch, after all, and would have trouble finding a job.
“I didn’t pay for it; I stole it.” Randall lit the fire under the small
cauldron and looked at her with a grin. ‘Or rather, I liberated it from a
pureblood’s shop when the owner was distracted by some acquaintances of mine
who wanted to know what he did during the war.’ His grin widened. “No need to
spend our own gold on this if we can have purebloods pay for it.”
cauldron and looked at her with a grin. ‘Or rather, I liberated it from a
pureblood’s shop when the owner was distracted by some acquaintances of mine
who wanted to know what he did during the war.’ His grin widened. “No need to
spend our own gold on this if we can have purebloods pay for it.”
“Oh.” She chuckled. ‘Clever.’ Bending over to look more closely at the
cauldron, she asked: “How long will this take to put them to sleep?”
cauldron, she asked: “How long will this take to put them to sleep?”
“We should wait half an hour to be certain that the gas has spread through the
entire flat before I start on the wards. It would be safer if we had another
vial so we could cover the flat better, but the shop had only one on display.”
entire flat before I start on the wards. It would be safer if we had another
vial so we could cover the flat better, but the shop had only one on display.”
“Ah.” Bess wasn’t fond of waiting, but there was no way round it.
“At least by the time I’m done with the wards, the gas will have become inert.
Harmless.”
Harmless.”
Bess frowned — she knew what inert meant; that bloody bigot Snape had drilled
it into her with scathing words she would never forget. But Randall was just
being nice, she told herself. She nodded and checked her watch, then tried to
relax while they waited.
it into her with scathing words she would never forget. But Randall was just
being nice, she told herself. She nodded and checked her watch, then tried to
relax while they waited.
---
Hours later — a small part of her was quite happy that Randall’s estimate of
how long he’d need to take down the wards had been wrong — they finally
entered the purebloods’ flat. An Unlocking Charm opened the door, and the two
of them went in, leading with their wands. Randall had cast a Bubble-Head
Charm on himself, but Bess had said she trusted his work; she wasn’t sure if
he had seen through her excuse or not.
how long he’d need to take down the wards had been wrong — they finally
entered the purebloods’ flat. An Unlocking Charm opened the door, and the two
of them went in, leading with their wands. Randall had cast a Bubble-Head
Charm on himself, but Bess had said she trusted his work; she wasn’t sure if
he had seen through her excuse or not.
The flat had been rented — or stolen; a few spells and the owner wouldn’t
remember anything — furnished. There was a telly and a radio in the living
room and modern appliances in the kitchen. None of them looked as if they had
been used in months. The fridge was stocked, though, as Bess found out.
remember anything — furnished. There was a telly and a radio in the living
room and modern appliances in the kitchen. None of them looked as if they had
been used in months. The fridge was stocked, though, as Bess found out.
“Found them!” Randall announced.
Bess headed towards him. He was standing in the larger bedroom, over the
bodies of a witch and a boy. The witch looked young, probably barely out of
Hogwarts, Bess thought, and the boy looked like he was ten or so.
bodies of a witch and a boy. The witch looked young, probably barely out of
Hogwarts, Bess thought, and the boy looked like he was ten or so.
“They look like siblings,” Randall said, poking the witch with his foot.
“Do you know who they are?” Bess asked.
“Hm…” Randall walked to the table in the living room. Bess followed him.
There were a few Daily Prophets, a few cutouts of issues — covering the Battle
of the Ministry — and letters. Randall grabbed one of them. “Fredrick Rovier.
He and his wife were on the list, weren’t they?”
of the Ministry — and letters. Randall grabbed one of them. “Fredrick Rovier.
He and his wife were on the list, weren’t they?”
Bess checked. “They’re not on it any more. Killed in the Ministry.” Or so she
assumed — she had noted down the date of their removal, not the cause.
assumed — she had noted down the date of their removal, not the cause.
“So…” Randall looked at her.
“So…” Bess looked back at him. “What do we do with ’em?”
Randall didn’t look like he had an answer.
---
“How much longer are they going to be unconscious?” Bess asked after about a
minute.
minute.
“It depends on the amount of gas they were exposed to,” Randall answered.
He didn’t know then, Bess thought. Not that she knew any better. She had come
to hunt Death Eaters, not… children. One child, a child of Death Eaters, she
amended. “Let’s check her arm!”
to hunt Death Eaters, not… children. One child, a child of Death Eaters, she
amended. “Let’s check her arm!”
Randall cut off the witch’s sleeve with a charm. “No Dark Mark.”
That didn’t mean anything, of course. Plenty of the Dark Lord’s followers
weren’t marked. “We should interrogate her.”
weren’t marked. “We should interrogate her.”
Her friend shook his head. “We don’t have Veritaserum.” She looked at him, and
he shrugged. “It’s not available in shops.”
he shrugged. “It’s not available in shops.”
“Could you brew it?” Bess certainly couldn’t. She had barely passed her
Potions O.W.L.
Potions O.W.L.
He winced. “Not with the resources we have. There are a lot of restricted
ingredients, and I’d need a better cauldron.”
ingredients, and I’d need a better cauldron.”
Bess clenched her teeth. “How can we find out if she’s a Death Eater then?”
“Let’s search the flat. We might find evidence.”
Bess nodded and cast two Full Body-Bind Curses. She caught Randall raising his
eyebrows at the second, and she shrugged. “I don’t want the kid to wake up and
run off while we’re busy.”
eyebrows at the second, and she shrugged. “I don’t want the kid to wake up and
run off while we’re busy.”
He nodded. “Good thinking.” She couldn’t tell if he was honest or thought she
was making up an excuse.
was making up an excuse.
It took them an hour to search the flat, and most of that time was spent
casting Finite on suspicious objects. They found a stash of money, mostly
Galleons but some pounds as well, and several books and potions — and clothes
and a travelling brewer’s set.
casting Finite on suspicious objects. They found a stash of money, mostly
Galleons but some pounds as well, and several books and potions — and clothes
and a travelling brewer’s set.
“Nothing conclusive,” Randall summed up. No Death Eater masks, no robes, no
dark items.
dark items.
“What do we do?” Bess glanced at the two captives. They hadn’t woken up.
Randall sighed. “We could hand them over to the Resistance.”
“How?” Bess didn’t know where the Resistance was based. “Drop them in front of
a muggle shop in the Alley?”
a muggle shop in the Alley?”
“Someone would probably hex them,” Randall said.
Or worse, Bess thought. She knew what she’d think if she found a bound wizard
with a note that they were to be handed over to the Resistance.
with a note that they were to be handed over to the Resistance.
“We could hand them to the Ministry,” he added after a few seconds of silence.
“What?” Bess turned away from the two purebloods and glared at him. “They’d
let them go!”
let them go!”
He grimaced and shrugged. “Well… maybe. Things have changed since Nott’s
death. But… what else can we do? Leave them here?”
death. But… what else can we do? Leave them here?”
“We can interrogate them.” They could beat the truth out of her, Bess was
pretty certain of that. “Once they wake up.”
pretty certain of that. “Once they wake up.”
He nodded.
---
**Marseille, Quartier Magique, France, March 30th, 1997**
Vivienne was waiting for him when Sirius Black returned to his room in
Marseille. She had cast a privacy spell beforehand; he could tell from the
faint buzzing noise he heard when he entered.
Marseille. She had cast a privacy spell beforehand; he could tell from the
faint buzzing noise he heard when he entered.
“’Ow did it go?” she asked as soon as he had closed the door.
She hadn’t stood up to embrace him, he noted, but instead remained sitting on
the bed. Wearing her robes, too. He sighed. “Your plan is working. She’s quite
clearly displaying her interest.”
the bed. Wearing her robes, too. He sighed. “Your plan is working. She’s quite
clearly displaying her interest.”
She nodded. “Good.” After a moment, she added: “Did you kiss?”
“Yes.” He sat down next to her, but was hesitant about wrapping his arm around
her. He could tell that she was tense, and trying to hide it. “She’s invited
me to another dinner.”
her. He could tell that she was tense, and trying to hide it. “She’s invited
me to another dinner.”
“In her home?” Vivienne quickly asked.
“No. ‘Le Moineau’, a restaurant in Paris she apparently loves very much.”
Dubois’s manner and tone had implied that they might head to her home
afterwards, though.
Dubois’s manner and tone had implied that they might head to her home
afterwards, though.
“I know it. It employs a very good cook. Rumored to be a squib, but nothing
was ever proven.”
was ever proven.”
“Ah.” Sirius didn’t care about that, but others would. His family used to kill
squibs until the last century.
squibs until the last century.
They sat there for a minute, close enough to touch, but apart. She sighed.
“I’m a ’ypocrite. I ’elped plan this, and I ’ate it.”
“I’m a ’ypocrite. I ’elped plan this, and I ’ate it.”
He knew she didn’t mean the ambush for Dubois, or the probable fate of the
French witch, but his role in it. “I’m not too fond of it either,” he said. He
was being honest, too — for all that in his teens, and before Azkaban, he
would have jumped at such a mission, he now felt guilty and dirty seducing an
enemy. With a sigh, he added: “But it’s the best way to get her and end this
whole affair.”
French witch, but his role in it. “I’m not too fond of it either,” he said. He
was being honest, too — for all that in his teens, and before Azkaban, he
would have jumped at such a mission, he now felt guilty and dirty seducing an
enemy. With a sigh, he added: “But it’s the best way to get her and end this
whole affair.”
“I know. I still don’t like it.” She sighed as well, and he felt her leaning
into him, felt her warmth through his robe.
into him, felt her warmth through his robe.
Slowly, almost hesitantly, he wrapped his arm around her shoulder, pulling her
closer to him until she rested her head on his shoulder.
closer to him until she rested her head on his shoulder.
They remained like that for some time, just being close to each other. He
didn’t offer to abandon the mission, nor promise that he wouldn’t go further
to gain Dubois’s trust, and she didn’t ask him to.
didn’t offer to abandon the mission, nor promise that he wouldn’t go further
to gain Dubois’s trust, and she didn’t ask him to.
---
**London, Sutton, March 31st, 1997**
Bess Cox watched the clock on the wall. It was past midnight already. She
sighed — the damn purebloods still hadn’t woken up.
sighed — the damn purebloods still hadn’t woken up.
“If you really want we could use bezoars on them,” Randall said.
She had proposed that before, and he had refused. That had been hours ago,
though. “No. As you said, we might need them ourselves, and it’s not worth
using them any more. They should wake up any minute now.” At least Randall had
said so — half an hour ago.
though. “No. As you said, we might need them ourselves, and it’s not worth
using them any more. They should wake up any minute now.” At least Randall had
said so — half an hour ago.
He knew that as well, and she caught him grimace. “Yes.” Then he returned to
reading one of the books they had found in the flat. Or at least acting as if
he was reading it.
reading one of the books they had found in the flat. Or at least acting as if
he was reading it.
She stood up and pointed her wand at the two captives, casting another
Incarcerous Spell on them. The Full Body-Bind Curse was more effective, but
they couldn’t talk while under its effect.
Incarcerous Spell on them. The Full Body-Bind Curse was more effective, but
they couldn’t talk while under its effect.
He didn’t comment, but she caught him frowning, and glared back — she couldn’t
wait without doing something. Not for hours and hours, at least. She glanced
at the table, where they had put the Daily Prophet issues they had found.
Maybe she should set fire to another picture of Fudge, and watch him try to
escape the flames. Or maybe Bones…
wait without doing something. Not for hours and hours, at least. She glanced
at the table, where they had put the Daily Prophet issues they had found.
Maybe she should set fire to another picture of Fudge, and watch him try to
escape the flames. Or maybe Bones…
A groan interrupted her thought, and she whirled around as Randall shot up,
his book dropping to the floor. The witch had woken up!
his book dropping to the floor. The witch had woken up!
“What… John! What did… John!” The witch was struggling against the enchanted
ropes holding her, but froze when she caught sight of them. “Who’re you?” She
asked, gasping.
ropes holding her, but froze when she caught sight of them. “Who’re you?” She
asked, gasping.
“That doesn’t matter,” Randall said, stepping closer to her. “Who are you?”
“John?” She turned her head until she saw the boy. “What did you do to him?”
“Same as we did to you,” Randall said. “Who are you?”
“Release us!”
Bess crouched down next to the witch and glared at her. She wanted to curse
the witch. Or at least hex her. She pushed her wand forward, digging its tip
into the witch’s cheek. “Answer the damn question!”
the witch. Or at least hex her. She pushed her wand forward, digging its tip
into the witch’s cheek. “Answer the damn question!”
“O-Oriel Rovier.”
It figured, Bess thought, that she’d have a fancy name.
“Are you the daughter of Fredrick Rovier?” Randall asked.
“He’s dead. Killed in the Ministry. With Mum.” Rovier wasn’t quite stammering,
but she came close. And there were tears in her eyes.
but she came close. And there were tears in her eyes.
“Are you his daughter?” Randall repeated, glaring at their captive.
“Y-Yes. Are you the Mu… the Resistance?”
“No,” Bess spat out.
“We’re asking the questions,” Randall said. Bess clenched her teeth at the
rebuke. “And we’ll be interrogating your brother as well, later. So, if you
lie to us, you will regret it.”
rebuke. “And we’ll be interrogating your brother as well, later. So, if you
lie to us, you will regret it.”
“He hasn’t done anything!”
Rovier was shaking her head until Bess pushed the tip of her wand into her
face again. “We’ll see,” she said, baring her teeth at the pureblood.
face again. “We’ll see,” she said, baring her teeth at the pureblood.
“Your parents were Death Eaters. What about you? Were you a Death Eater too?”
“No! Check my arm! I don’t have the Mark!”
“We already did.” Randall sighed. “You don’t need the Mark to be a follower of
the Dark Lord. Did you attack muggleborns? Or ‘blood traitors’?” he added.
the Dark Lord. Did you attack muggleborns? Or ‘blood traitors’?” he added.
“N-no! I was just taking care of John. My parents didn’t want me to fight!”
Bess couldn’t tell if the witch was lying or not. She looked at Randall, but
he was staring at their captive. “Did you want to fight for him?”
he was staring at their captive. “Did you want to fight for him?”
“N-No.”
“Not even when your parents were killed?”
She swallowed, but shook her head. “No. No.”
“Not even to take revenge?” Randall crouched down as well, opposite Bess.
“Will your brother tell us that as well? Or that you promised to avenge Mum
and Dad?”
“Will your brother tell us that as well? Or that you promised to avenge Mum
and Dad?”
Rovier was crying now. “He hasn’t done anything! Please…”
Randall stood up. “I guess that’s a ‘yes’. Did you do anything?”
“N-no. No. It was just talk.” She sobbed.
“Really?” He tilted his head.
“Yes. I couldn’t leave John alone. He has no one else. Please don’t hurt him!
Please!”
Please!”
The pureblood was begging. Bess wondered if her friends had begged as well,
before they were killed. She glanced at Randall.
before they were killed. She glanced at Randall.
Her friend sighed, and pointed the wand at Rovier.
“No! Please! Ple…”
“Stupefy!” His spell cut her off and her body went limp.
He sighed.
“What do we do with her?” Bess asked. “She wants to fight us. Muggleborns.”
Randall glanced at the boy, still unconscious. “We still have to check with
‘John’ if she told us the truth.”
‘John’ if she told us the truth.”
“And if she did? The Ministry won’t do anything to her since she hasn’t done
anything. Yet.” Not that they would do anything anyway, Bess thought. Not to a
pureblood. “It would be foolish to let her go so she can later attack others.
And she saw our faces,” Bess added as an afterthought.
anything. Yet.” Not that they would do anything anyway, Bess thought. Not to a
pureblood. “It would be foolish to let her go so she can later attack others.
And she saw our faces,” Bess added as an afterthought.
“Do you want to kill her?” Randall was staring at her.
Bess clenched her teeth. She wanted to kill the witch. Just as her friends had
been killed. Just as so many had been killed by those monsters. She pointed
her wand at Rovier. It would be easy. Reductor Curse, Cutting Curse, Piercing
Curse — any curse would do it. She glanced at the kid, who had still not woken
up. “Fuck it!” She lowered her wand. “They’re not supposed to cry,” she
muttered, walking towards the kitchen, where she had seen a bottle of Ogden’s
Finest.
been killed. Just as so many had been killed by those monsters. She pointed
her wand at Rovier. It would be easy. Reductor Curse, Cutting Curse, Piercing
Curse — any curse would do it. She glanced at the kid, who had still not woken
up. “Fuck it!” She lowered her wand. “They’re not supposed to cry,” she
muttered, walking towards the kitchen, where she had seen a bottle of Ogden’s
Finest.
She needed a drink.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 31st, 1997**
The Resistance recruits’ celebration of their first mission — and first
victory — reminded Harry Potter of a lot of the parties in Gryffindor after
they had won a Quidditch match. Lots of alcohol, lots of loud music, and lots
of people staying up too long. Past midnight, in this case. They’d regret it
in the morning, he thought — unlike McGonagall, the Sergeant wouldn’t have
mercy. Especially since he was told that the recruits had spent the day in
London and didn’t know that they had had their first battle. If you could call
it a battle — the Fleaweathers hadn’t shown much skill or talent for fighting.
victory — reminded Harry Potter of a lot of the parties in Gryffindor after
they had won a Quidditch match. Lots of alcohol, lots of loud music, and lots
of people staying up too long. Past midnight, in this case. They’d regret it
in the morning, he thought — unlike McGonagall, the Sergeant wouldn’t have
mercy. Especially since he was told that the recruits had spent the day in
London and didn’t know that they had had their first battle. If you could call
it a battle — the Fleaweathers hadn’t shown much skill or talent for fighting.
He glanced at Neville, who was sitting next to him, staring at the campfire’s
embers with a beer in his hand. The Gryffindor hadn’t said much since they had
returned from London, and even less since Ron and Hermione had retreated to
her tent an hour ago. “We should head to bed,” Harry said, “or we’ll have a
hard time in the morning.” Emmet and Clifton were keeping an eye on the
remaining recruits, but the rest of the experienced Resistance members had
already gone to bed as well.
embers with a beer in his hand. The Gryffindor hadn’t said much since they had
returned from London, and even less since Ron and Hermione had retreated to
her tent an hour ago. “We should head to bed,” Harry said, “or we’ll have a
hard time in the morning.” Emmet and Clifton were keeping an eye on the
remaining recruits, but the rest of the experienced Resistance members had
already gone to bed as well.
Neville didn’t respond. Harry was about to repeat himself when he suddenly
spoke up, still staring at the remains of the fire: “Why are they
celebrating?”
spoke up, still staring at the remains of the fire: “Why are they
celebrating?”
Harry drew a deep breath and wondered if Neville had drank more beer than he
thought. “They’re celebrating their first mission. Their first victory.”
thought. “They’re celebrating their first mission. Their first victory.”
Neville scoffed. “Some victory! Those enemies were worse than first years
taught by Lockhart. They’re acting as if they had fought the Dark Lord’s inner
circle!”
taught by Lockhart. They’re acting as if they had fought the Dark Lord’s inner
circle!”
Harry shrugged. “They didn’t know that when they went in. And the wards were
decent.”
decent.”
“The Death Eaters we captured will be set free anyway.” Neville took a another
sip from his bottle.
sip from his bottle.
“If that happens the Ministry will be weakened further.” Harry wasn’t certain
that they would simply be let go — Bones would certainly attempt to prosecute
them, and some of the Wizengamot members who had acquitted Nott might use this
opportunity to switch sides. At least according to Doge.
that they would simply be let go — Bones would certainly attempt to prosecute
them, and some of the Wizengamot members who had acquitted Nott might use this
opportunity to switch sides. At least according to Doge.
Neville snorted. “Politics!”
Harry sighed. “Politics is at the root of this conflict. We won the First
Blood War, but since nothing changed in the Wizengamot, the next war was
inevitable.” It was a bit more complicated than that, but it was also already
past midnight.
Blood War, but since nothing changed in the Wizengamot, the next war was
inevitable.” It was a bit more complicated than that, but it was also already
past midnight.
Neville muttered something Harry didn’t catch.
“Are you really unhappy that it wasn’t a harder battle?” Harry let some of his
annoyance seep into his tone.
annoyance seep into his tone.
It was Neville’s turn to sigh. “No… not really. But… it feels so pointless. My
parents fought in the last war, Gran was murdered in this war, and all I have
done is stare at a map in Hogwarts and tell my proxy to vote for Dumbledore. I
didn’t even curse anyone in the attack today. I feel like…” The bottle slipped
from his hand and dropped, the beer spilling on the ground. He cursed.
parents fought in the last war, Gran was murdered in this war, and all I have
done is stare at a map in Hogwarts and tell my proxy to vote for Dumbledore. I
didn’t even curse anyone in the attack today. I feel like…” The bottle slipped
from his hand and dropped, the beer spilling on the ground. He cursed.
“Don’t feel like that. Dumbledore himself said that we must not just win the
war, but the peace as well. That we cannot give in to hatred and revenge, but
must strive for justice.” Harry remembered the Headmaster’s last message well.
war, but the peace as well. That we cannot give in to hatred and revenge, but
must strive for justice.” Harry remembered the Headmaster’s last message well.
Neville snorted. “Some justice!”
“That’s why we need to reform the Wizengamot,” Harry said.
Neville didn’t look convinced. He turned his head to look at Harry. “You
actually fought and killed the Dark Lord. You’ve done your part.”
actually fought and killed the Dark Lord. You’ve done your part.”
Harry shook his head. “No. I’m not done. Because it’s not about winning a war.
It’s about ensuring that our children won’t have to fight another war.”
It’s about ensuring that our children won’t have to fight another war.”
Neville stared at him for a moment, then looked at the dying fire again.
“Let’s go to bed.”
“Let’s go to bed.”
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, March 31st, 1997**
Amelia Bones refrained from rubbing the bridge of her nose. “The Resistance
‘arrested’ the Fleaweathers and delivered them to the DMLE.”
‘arrested’ the Fleaweathers and delivered them to the DMLE.”
Pius nodded. “Correct. The Fleaweathers have been in hiding for months.”
“Suspected Death Eaters.” Amelia had been the Head of the DMLE back when that
suspicion had been raised.
suspicion had been raised.
“They’re not marked, but, according to the Resistance, they have admitted to
supporting the Dark Lord financially.”
supporting the Dark Lord financially.”
A confession helped along by force, or by Veritaserum, no doubt, Amelia
thought. It didn’t matter — their own interrogation would ferret out the
truth. She took issue with something else, though. She narrowed her eyes. “You
make it sound as if the DMLE approves of the Resistance’s action.”
thought. It didn’t matter — their own interrogation would ferret out the
truth. She took issue with something else, though. She narrowed her eyes. “You
make it sound as if the DMLE approves of the Resistance’s action.”
Pius spread his hands. “As we would approve of any capture of a wanted suspect
by civilians.”
by civilians.”
She refrained from cursing out loud. Pius wouldn’t say that if some criminal
from Knockturn Alley had done this. She scoffed, but didn’t pursue the topic
further. There was no point. “And the Roviers?”
from Knockturn Alley had done this. She scoffed, but didn’t pursue the topic
further. There was no point. “And the Roviers?”
“An anonymous message delivered by owl informed us of their location. We found
both of them, under Full Body-Bind Curses, in a muggle flat in London. The owl
was taken from Diagon Alley’s post owl office — without the clerk’s
knowledge.”
both of them, under Full Body-Bind Curses, in a muggle flat in London. The owl
was taken from Diagon Alley’s post owl office — without the clerk’s
knowledge.”
“Anonymous?” Amelia didn’t like that.
“Neither the Resistance nor the Order of the Phoenix have claimed
responsibility for it.”
responsibility for it.”
Amelia chuckled. “Not many would want to admit that they attacked children.”
“I do not think that they are lying. There was no sign that Veritaserum had
been used on the Roviers,” Pius pointed out, “and we know that the Resistance
has access to it.”
been used on the Roviers,” Pius pointed out, “and we know that the Resistance
has access to it.”
He was correct, Amelia knew. Sighing, she said. “Which means there’s another
muggleborn group out there hunting suspected Death Eaters.”
muggleborn group out there hunting suspected Death Eaters.”
“They might not be muggleborns,” Pius said. “Although they used muggle
knowledge to break into the flat.”
knowledge to break into the flat.”
“Do you honestly think a pureblood or half-blood did this?” Amelia raised her
eyebrows at him.
eyebrows at him.
“I feel it wouldn’t be prudent to assume too much.”
“Whatever. Set a team to finding those responsible. We can’t have vigilantes
hunting people.” Especially not with the damned ICW delegation still in
Britain.
hunting people.” Especially not with the damned ICW delegation still in
Britain.
Pius nodded. He didn’t ask her if she expected him to stop the Resistance and
the Order as well. They both knew the Ministry wasn’t in any shape to take on
either of those groups.
the Order as well. They both knew the Ministry wasn’t in any shape to take on
either of those groups.
“Inform me as soon as you have interrogated the Roviers and the Fleaweathers.”
Pius frowned slightly but nodded. Amelia knew that she was behaving
hypocritically — she had hated it when Cornelius had meddled in her
investigations — but this was also a political matter. Black was counting on
the Wizengamot acquitting yet another Death Eater so he’d receive even more
support.
hypocritically — she had hated it when Cornelius had meddled in her
investigations — but this was also a political matter. Black was counting on
the Wizengamot acquitting yet another Death Eater so he’d receive even more
support.
Amelia would do what she could to prevent that, of course.
---
**South Downs National Park, Hampshire, Britain, March 31st, 1997**
“Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis. Thank you for coming, despite the latest
developments.” Malfoy greeted the two witches with a bow.
developments.” Malfoy greeted the two witches with a bow.
Daphne Greengrass returned the bow as soon as she had cleaned the soot from
her robes. “We came because of, not despite, the recent events,” she said. “To
see purebloods hunted down like animals… Purebloods whose only ‘crime’ was the
desire to live in safety…” She shook her head. “This cannot stand.”
her robes. “We came because of, not despite, the recent events,” she said. “To
see purebloods hunted down like animals… Purebloods whose only ‘crime’ was the
desire to live in safety…” She shook her head. “This cannot stand.”
“They were so desperate that they went and hid among muggles,” Tracey added.
“But it didn’t save them. Hiding and bowing our heads will not save any one of
us.”
“But it didn’t save them. Hiding and bowing our heads will not save any one of
us.”
Daphne hoped they hadn’t overdone it. To her relief, Malfoy smiled. “Exactly.
Please follow me to the salon. We have important matters to discuss.”
Please follow me to the salon. We have important matters to discuss.”
There were no other guests in waiting in the salon. There was no sign of
Runcorn either. Daphne made a point of looking around.
Runcorn either. Daphne made a point of looking around.
“Philius won’t be joining us,” Malfoy answered her unspoken question.
“Oh?” She wasn’t certain how to take that.
“What’s he doing?” Tracey asked with narrowed eyes.
“Politics.” Malfoy shrugged, then sat down in his customary seat.
Daphne took a seat on the couch, with Tracey following her. She didn’t pry
further but simply waited.
further but simply waited.
“As you so pointedly said, things have taken a turn for the worse. The
mudbloods are now openly hunting purebloods.” Malfoy leaned forward, folding
his hands between his knees. “The Old Families are in dire peril, even though
some do not realise it. Or do not want to realise it.”
mudbloods are now openly hunting purebloods.” Malfoy leaned forward, folding
his hands between his knees. “The Old Families are in dire peril, even though
some do not realise it. Or do not want to realise it.”
“The mudbloods only understand violence,” Daphne said. “As they do not care
about traditions and culture, they do not respect the law.”
about traditions and culture, they do not respect the law.”
“Exactly.” Malfoy smiled thinly. ‘Too many of our peers in the Wizengamot do
not understand this. They assume that mudbloods are like us — civilised
wizards and witches.’ Tracey snorted and Malfoy glanced at her, nodding in
apparent approval. “They are fools. But fools whose mistakes will doom us
all.”
not understand this. They assume that mudbloods are like us — civilised
wizards and witches.’ Tracey snorted and Malfoy glanced at her, nodding in
apparent approval. “They are fools. But fools whose mistakes will doom us
all.”
“But what can we do if they won’t listen?” Daphne shook her head. “If they
refuse to see the truth?” Silently, she urged Malfoy to take the bait. To tell
them about his backers and of his plans. Then Tracey and she could inform
Black, and quit risking their lives.
refuse to see the truth?” Silently, she urged Malfoy to take the bait. To tell
them about his backers and of his plans. Then Tracey and she could inform
Black, and quit risking their lives.
“I’m afraid to say that there’s not much we can do. Too many in the Wizengamot
support the mudbloods. Too many let fear rule their decisions. The only way
those cowards will change their stance will be when the mudbloods reveal their
true goals. But they are too smart to do that until they have taken control of
the Wizengamot.” Malfoy sighed. “We can but hope for a miracle. If some
mudbloods were to kill a prominent blood traitor…”
support the mudbloods. Too many let fear rule their decisions. The only way
those cowards will change their stance will be when the mudbloods reveal their
true goals. But they are too smart to do that until they have taken control of
the Wizengamot.” Malfoy sighed. “We can but hope for a miracle. If some
mudbloods were to kill a prominent blood traitor…”
Tracey scoffed. “Fat chance of that happening. Black, Potter and Weasley are
far too close to the Resistance for that.” She chuckled. “Or far too close to
Granger.”
far too close to the Resistance for that.” She chuckled. “Or far too close to
Granger.”
Daphne nodded. “Everyone knows that the only reason a mudblood would attack
one of them would be the Imperius Curse.” She couldn’t believe Malfoy would
actually expect them to do such a thing.
one of them would be the Imperius Curse.” She couldn’t believe Malfoy would
actually expect them to do such a thing.
Malfoy slowly nodded. “I concur. Since we would be blamed, it is fortunate
that it is very unlikely for a mudblood to attack them.” Daphne’s relief at
hearing this didn’t last since he continued: ‘However, given the violent
nature of mudbloods, and their deep-seated hatred, I think there’s a not
insignificant chance that some of the mudbloods will not forgive those
Wizengamot members who supported the Muggleborn Laws and the Ministry’s
actions against the Resistance — no matter whether or not they have recently
changed their allegiance.’ He smiled at them. “It is a small chance, but our
only hope.”
that it is very unlikely for a mudblood to attack them.” Daphne’s relief at
hearing this didn’t last since he continued: ‘However, given the violent
nature of mudbloods, and their deep-seated hatred, I think there’s a not
insignificant chance that some of the mudbloods will not forgive those
Wizengamot members who supported the Muggleborn Laws and the Ministry’s
actions against the Resistance — no matter whether or not they have recently
changed their allegiance.’ He smiled at them. “It is a small chance, but our
only hope.”
It was clear what he meant. Daphne forced herself to keep smiling. To appear
confident even though she was anything but. “That would likely be dismissed as
mudbloods acting under the Imperius,” she said.
confident even though she was anything but. “That would likely be dismissed as
mudbloods acting under the Imperius,” she said.
“That depends on the manner of the attack. A wizard running at a bunch of
ruffians can be dismissed as a victim of the Imperius, but a co-ordinated
assault?” He shook his head.
ruffians can be dismissed as a victim of the Imperius, but a co-ordinated
assault?” He shook his head.
Daphne nodded. The purebloods would be more suspicious of the mudbloods to
begin with, too. “It wouldn’t be the first time in history that a just cause
prevailed no matter the odds.” She glanced at Tracey. If her friend lost her
composure… Fortunately, she controlled herself and nodded slowly.
begin with, too. “It wouldn’t be the first time in history that a just cause
prevailed no matter the odds.” She glanced at Tracey. If her friend lost her
composure… Fortunately, she controlled herself and nodded slowly.
Their host smiled.
---
Twenty minutes of meaningless talk later, Daphne and Tracey arrived back at
Greengrass Manor. Lupin was waiting for them, together with Tonks. “We need to
talk to Black,” Daphne said, cutting off the werewolf’s greeting.
Greengrass Manor. Lupin was waiting for them, together with Tonks. “We need to
talk to Black,” Daphne said, cutting off the werewolf’s greeting.
“What happened?” Tonks asked. “Did Malfoy and Runcorn incriminate themselves?”
Tracey scoffed. “As if! Our esteemed host is far too smart for that and merely
mentioned what he hoped might happen.”
mentioned what he hoped might happen.”
Lupin frowned. “What did he say?”
“What he meant,” Daphne corrected the creature, “was that he wants us to kill
one of the Wizengamot members who have recently defected to Black and frame
muggleborn extremists for the deed. That’s why we need to talk to Black.”
one of the Wizengamot members who have recently defected to Black and frame
muggleborn extremists for the deed. That’s why we need to talk to Black.”
Lupin understood at once, and nodded. The metamorphmagus took a bit longer.
And Tracey just had to spell it out. “Yes. This is a test. We need to fake a
murder. And quite convincingly.” Which would be difficult, especially after
their trials had revealed how Dumbledore had manipulated their attack on Nigel
Nye.
And Tracey just had to spell it out. “Yes. This is a test. We need to fake a
murder. And quite convincingly.” Which would be difficult, especially after
their trials had revealed how Dumbledore had manipulated their attack on Nigel
Nye.
There was an alternative, of course. Daphne didn’t mention it. But she knew
that if she had to kill a coward to save her family, she’d do it.
that if she had to kill a coward to save her family, she’d do it.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, March 31st, 1997**
Hermione Granger woke up on her side, her head on Ron’s chest and one leg over
his. Her boyfriend — lover — was still asleep, breathing steadily. One of his
arms was wrapped around her, his hand resting on her hip. She sighed
contentedly, snuggled up to him a bit more and closed her eyes. Her alarm
clock hadn’t rung yet, which meant she could remain like this for a little
while, at least.
his. Her boyfriend — lover — was still asleep, breathing steadily. One of his
arms was wrapped around her, his hand resting on her hip. She sighed
contentedly, snuggled up to him a bit more and closed her eyes. Her alarm
clock hadn’t rung yet, which meant she could remain like this for a little
while, at least.
And yet she couldn’t. The recruits had started the last week of the training
camp, and she needed to go over their choices for their specialisations. A
quite pretentious term, of course — it wasn’t as if a few days focusing on
long range marksmanship would turn anyone into a sniper. Not as modern
militaries used the term. Not even those among her friends who had experience
in sniping would qualify.
camp, and she needed to go over their choices for their specialisations. A
quite pretentious term, of course — it wasn’t as if a few days focusing on
long range marksmanship would turn anyone into a sniper. Not as modern
militaries used the term. Not even those among her friends who had experience
in sniping would qualify.
But they could share their experiences, and the new recruits would have both a
mentor and a head start. And the Resistance would have a replacement lined up,
in case they lost another member.
mentor and a head start. And the Resistance would have a replacement lined up,
in case they lost another member.
She drew a hissing breath remembering all those who had been killed in the
war. Dean, Mary, Colin, Martin and Jeremy. And Dennis was still in a coma,
waiting for a cure for the Withering Curse. She clenched her teeth — she
should be working on finding that cure, but she had no time. Not with the
French plotting against Britain — some of the French, she corrected herself —
and the Wizengamot still holding out. Reid would be back in Jamaica, she
thought. Unless he counted on them assuming that, and had slipped back over
the border. So much to do… She sighed again.
war. Dean, Mary, Colin, Martin and Jeremy. And Dennis was still in a coma,
waiting for a cure for the Withering Curse. She clenched her teeth — she
should be working on finding that cure, but she had no time. Not with the
French plotting against Britain — some of the French, she corrected herself —
and the Wizengamot still holding out. Reid would be back in Jamaica, she
thought. Unless he counted on them assuming that, and had slipped back over
the border. So much to do… She sighed again.
When she felt Ron stir under her, she realised that she had been a bit too
loud and woken him up.
loud and woken him up.
He groaned. “Hermione?”
He turned his head to look at her, and she smiled at him. “Good morning, Ron.”
“I didn’t hear the alarm.”
“It’s not yet time to get up.”
“Oh.” He blinked, then cleared her throat. She felt his chest move. “So…” He
trailed off, licking his lips.
trailed off, licking his lips.
She bit her lower lip, then smiled, and started to caress his chest. He took a
deep breath, and his hand started to wander…
deep breath, and his hand started to wander…
And both of them froze when the alarm clock went off.
“Err…” He smiled.
She frowned and grabbed her wand, silencing the clock. “We’ll use cleaning
charms instead of taking a shower, and eat breakfast quickly,” she stated.
charms instead of taking a shower, and eat breakfast quickly,” she stated.
He nodded, smiling.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, March 31st, 1997**
“Malfoy told the two snakes to kill a defecting Wizengamot member?” Ron
Weasley shook his head. “Wasn’t that what we wanted?”
Weasley shook his head. “Wasn’t that what we wanted?”
“Not exactly. He didn’t tell them to do it — he only remarked that muggleborns
killing a member of the Wizengamot who had recently joined Sirius’s faction
would make others reconsider their allegiance.” Remus sitting in Sirius’s
living room, snorted. “That’s not enough to convict anyone.”
killing a member of the Wizengamot who had recently joined Sirius’s faction
would make others reconsider their allegiance.” Remus sitting in Sirius’s
living room, snorted. “That’s not enough to convict anyone.”
“We could simply capture Malfoy and Runcorn,” Harry said. Ron’s friend was
scowling and hadn’t sat down for more than a minute since they had been told
about last night’s meeting at Malfoy’s.
scowling and hadn’t sat down for more than a minute since they had been told
about last night’s meeting at Malfoy’s.
“We could. It would cause a ruckus, but if we obtain proof that they are
behind the attacks and working for the French, that wouldn’t matter,” Remus
said. He sighed. “Although we don’t know for certain if that’s the case.”
behind the attacks and working for the French, that wouldn’t matter,” Remus
said. He sighed. “Although we don’t know for certain if that’s the case.”
“Greengrass and Davis are certain,” Hermione added.
“They could be wrong,” Remus said, leaning back. “It wouldn’t be the first
time.”
time.”
Ron snorted. The two Slytherins should know the other Death Eaters best,
shouldn’t they?
shouldn’t they?
Hermione sighed. “If they’re not behind the attacks we can’t frame them. There
are already rumours circulating which claim that we framed Nott. We need at
least one of them alive and standing trial to ruin their faction in the
Wizengamot. Otherwise, such rumors will linger and fester even more, and we’ll
suffer for it later.”
are already rumours circulating which claim that we framed Nott. We need at
least one of them alive and standing trial to ruin their faction in the
Wizengamot. Otherwise, such rumors will linger and fester even more, and we’ll
suffer for it later.”
“I’ll bet Galleons to Sickles that they are guilty,” Ron said. The memory of
the meeting they had watched had certainly seemed very convincing.
the meeting they had watched had certainly seemed very convincing.
“Would you bet the future of Wizarding Britain on being right?” Remus asked.
“Are you dead certain that Malfoy couldn’t truthfully claim — under
Veritaserum — that he had merely expressed his hope of such an attack
happening?”
“Are you dead certain that Malfoy couldn’t truthfully claim — under
Veritaserum — that he had merely expressed his hope of such an attack
happening?”
Ron frowned at the former teacher, but he didn’t have a comeback for that.
There was too much at stake.
There was too much at stake.
“Sirius wouldn’t have to risk his life,” Harry said, pushing his chin forward.
“Do you think he’d agree with such a course of action?” Remus tilted his head
slightly to the side.
slightly to the side.
“I think he would,” Ron said, before he could help himself. When Remus glared
at him, he shrugged. “If we’re wrong, we’re back at war. A war we’d win.”
at him, he shrugged. “If we’re wrong, we’re back at war. A war we’d win.”
The older wizard sighed. “He would risk a war on such odds — but he wouldn’t
risk your lives. And you’d be in the thick of it, if there’s another war.”
risk your lives. And you’d be in the thick of it, if there’s another war.”
Ron glanced at Harry. Remus was correct — Sirius would rather risk his own
life than Harry’s. Ron’s friend knew that as well, and his frown showed it.
life than Harry’s. Ron’s friend knew that as well, and his frown showed it.
“We have to consider, though, that even faked, the apparent death of a
Wizengamot member at the hands of muggleborns will do exactly what Malfoy and
Runcorn hope — cause more purebloods to join or rejoin them,” Hermione pointed
out. “That could be mitigated by claiming that the muggleborns were framed,
but only to some degree. So while our undercover operations would progress,
our political campaign would suffer. And if Sirius manages to gain the trust
of Dubois, and we can capture her, we wouldn’t need to gain Malfoy’s trust.”
Wizengamot member at the hands of muggleborns will do exactly what Malfoy and
Runcorn hope — cause more purebloods to join or rejoin them,” Hermione pointed
out. “That could be mitigated by claiming that the muggleborns were framed,
but only to some degree. So while our undercover operations would progress,
our political campaign would suffer. And if Sirius manages to gain the trust
of Dubois, and we can capture her, we wouldn’t need to gain Malfoy’s trust.”
“Provided that Malfoy and Runcorn are working for Dubois,” Remus said. “The
French are the most likely suspects, but not the only ones.”
French are the most likely suspects, but not the only ones.”
Ron sighed. “Great. Cursed if we do, cursed if we don’t.”
“Not quite,” Remus retorted. “It’s a matter of calculating the risks.”
“With unknown variables,” Hermione cut in.
Ron assumed that that contradicted Remus, judging by the man’s expression.
“We will need to discuss this with Sirius,” Remus said after a moment.
“If he returns to Britain he might endanger his cover,” Hermione said.
“We can visit him in France,” Harry quickly said.
“Great,” Ron muttered. He hoped this visit would not end like the last one.
“Not all of us need to go.” Remus looked at him.
Ron narrowed his eyes at the wizard. “I will not let my friends go there
alone.” Especially if this trip turned out like the last one.
alone.” Especially if this trip turned out like the last one.
Besides, he was a member of the Wizengamot as well. Leaving important
decisions to others didn’t feel right to him. He didn’t want to be a mere
mouthpiece.
decisions to others didn’t feel right to him. He didn’t want to be a mere
mouthpiece.
---
**Marseille, Quartier Magique, France, April 1st, 1997**
Hermione Granger had been in France before, several times, although she had
not visited Magical France. After reading up on the country, her family had
decided to stick to muggle France for their vacations. She remembered how she
had thought it ironic that one of the most republican countries in Europe had
a magical counterpart that was an almost absolutist monarchy.
not visited Magical France. After reading up on the country, her family had
decided to stick to muggle France for their vacations. She remembered how she
had thought it ironic that one of the most republican countries in Europe had
a magical counterpart that was an almost absolutist monarchy.
And now she and her friends were walking down the main street of the Quartier
Magique in Marseilles — although disguised with wigs, makeup and tanning
spray. Polyjuice would have been more thorough, but could be countered with
magic.
Magique in Marseilles — although disguised with wigs, makeup and tanning
spray. Polyjuice would have been more thorough, but could be countered with
magic.
She still felt exposed and too vulnerable. It was just Remus, Harry, Ron and
herself. Tonks had stayed in Britain, to keep an eye on Greengrass and Davis
as well as to pose as Sirius for short appearances, and they didn’t trust
anyone else with this information. She understood the need for secrecy, but
she would have prefered some of her other friends with her. Two on brooms in
the sky, disillusioned, and two nearby, disguised.
herself. Tonks had stayed in Britain, to keep an eye on Greengrass and Davis
as well as to pose as Sirius for short appearances, and they didn’t trust
anyone else with this information. She understood the need for secrecy, but
she would have prefered some of her other friends with her. Two on brooms in
the sky, disillusioned, and two nearby, disguised.
She sighed.
Ron, walking arm in arm with her with a tan and his hair dyed black, bent his
head towards her. “What’s wrong?”
head towards her. “What’s wrong?”
“We shouldn’t be here,” she said in a low voice despite their privacy spells.
“We should have simply travelled to the muggle Côte d’Azur and discussed
things with Sirius using his communication mirror.”
“We should have simply travelled to the muggle Côte d’Azur and discussed
things with Sirius using his communication mirror.”
“Harry wants to see Sirius.”
She understood that — she was missing her parents, whom she hadn’t visited in
a few weeks — but she remained convinced that it was an unnecessary risk. But
she had been outvoted. That wouldn’t have happened in the Resistance, she
knew.
a few weeks — but she remained convinced that it was an unnecessary risk. But
she had been outvoted. That wouldn’t have happened in the Resistance, she
knew.
They reached the small café Fleur had told them about. It was narrow and
rather dark, but stretched between two streets. Discreet too, the Veela had
told them — no one would bat an eye at privacy spells. Hermione hoped that
that was true. Britain couldn’t afford another diplomatic crisis, and they
couldn’t afford to get arrested should anything happen.
rather dark, but stretched between two streets. Discreet too, the Veela had
told them — no one would bat an eye at privacy spells. Hermione hoped that
that was true. Britain couldn’t afford another diplomatic crisis, and they
couldn’t afford to get arrested should anything happen.
Sirius, in disguise himself, different from his undercover one, of course, was
waving at them. Drawing attention to himself — but then, that might look more
natural for a harmless meeting of friends. Harry made a beeline for him and
hugged the wizard. The rest of them were more restrained and quickly sat down.
waving at them. Drawing attention to himself — but then, that might look more
natural for a harmless meeting of friends. Harry made a beeline for him and
hugged the wizard. The rest of them were more restrained and quickly sat down.
“So… what’s so important you had to meet me in person?” Sirius asked once
their order had been served. “Not that I mind spending time with you, of
course.” He was grinning, though he seemed more than a bit wary.
their order had been served. “Not that I mind spending time with you, of
course.” He was grinning, though he seemed more than a bit wary.
“We’re reasonably certain that Malfoy has decided to test Greengrass and
Davis’s loyalty and expects them to kill one of the deserters from his faction
in the Wizengamot, and frame the muggleborns for it,” Hermione informed him,
cutting Remus off before the older wizard could start to explain. She ignored
his frown — she wasn’t about to stay here any longer than necessary.
Davis’s loyalty and expects them to kill one of the deserters from his faction
in the Wizengamot, and frame the muggleborns for it,” Hermione informed him,
cutting Remus off before the older wizard could start to explain. She ignored
his frown — she wasn’t about to stay here any longer than necessary.
“Ah. And I guess letting them kill one of the opportunist bigots would be out
of the question?” Sirius chuckled and held up his hand when Remus glared at
him. ‘Just joking. I know we need every vote.’ His expression added an
unspoken ‘for now’. “But arranging a fake assassination will be difficult
without the cooperation of the Ministry.” Which they wouldn’t get.
of the question?” Sirius chuckled and held up his hand when Remus glared at
him. ‘Just joking. I know we need every vote.’ His expression added an
unspoken ‘for now’. “But arranging a fake assassination will be difficult
without the cooperation of the Ministry.” Which they wouldn’t get.
“If the Ministry doesn’t have DNA testing,” Hermione said, “then we just need
a sufficiently burned corpse to be found inside the burned out ruins of a
building, and some witnesses that place the victim at the location. Polyjuice
would suffice for the latter.”
a sufficiently burned corpse to be found inside the burned out ruins of a
building, and some witnesses that place the victim at the location. Polyjuice
would suffice for the latter.”
“The Unspeakables might be able to reconstruct a dead man’s face,” Sirius
said, “or check his blood. We don’t know what the Department of Mysteries is
capable of. Identifying the dead after Malfoy Manor was quite the task, as I
recall. Especially those who had been burned. But they still managed — or so
they claimed.”
said, “or check his blood. We don’t know what the Department of Mysteries is
capable of. Identifying the dead after Malfoy Manor was quite the task, as I
recall. Especially those who had been burned. But they still managed — or so
they claimed.”
That was troublesome. “We could claim we vanished the corpse, but that would
not fit our usual modus operandi.” The Resistance had wanted the Ministry to
find the corpses of their enemies. ‘We could make up a new muggleborn group,
and have them kidnap the victim. Disappearing enemies is a common tactic used
by several muggle regimes faced with insurrections. Malfoy might be suspicious
in that situation, though. He would want our own attacks to be copied so we
get the blame.’ She took a sip from her soft drink. “We could blow up a
building and burn it so thoroughly, they might assume that any corpse was
burned to ashes. But if they have a way to track down bone fragments, that
would not work. If it was a muggle target we could fake a plane crash in the
sea. That would explain the lack of a body.”
not fit our usual modus operandi.” The Resistance had wanted the Ministry to
find the corpses of their enemies. ‘We could make up a new muggleborn group,
and have them kidnap the victim. Disappearing enemies is a common tactic used
by several muggle regimes faced with insurrections. Malfoy might be suspicious
in that situation, though. He would want our own attacks to be copied so we
get the blame.’ She took a sip from her soft drink. “We could blow up a
building and burn it so thoroughly, they might assume that any corpse was
burned to ashes. But if they have a way to track down bone fragments, that
would not work. If it was a muggle target we could fake a plane crash in the
sea. That would explain the lack of a body.”
“None of the bigots we’re talking about would set foot in a muggle aeroplane,”
Sirius declared. “I don’t see how anyone sane would do that unless they had
lost a bet.”
Sirius declared. “I don’t see how anyone sane would do that unless they had
lost a bet.”
Remus snorted at that, and the two older wizards chuckled. She caught Harry
and Ron exchanging glances.
and Ron exchanging glances.
“Old mischief aside,” Sirius continued, “and apart from those ‘technical
difficulties’, there’s another problem to consider: We would need to trust our
victim not to change sides again.”
difficulties’, there’s another problem to consider: We would need to trust our
victim not to change sides again.”
“We could keep them under guard,” Remus said, “‘for their own protection’.”
“Only after the deed is done.” Sirius shook his head. “In order for this work,
they can’t be seen with us beforehand. A meeting with me is not suspicious,
but a sudden new bodyguard or friend, who then vanishes after the attack?
Malfoy would smell a set-up. He’s not dumb.”
they can’t be seen with us beforehand. A meeting with me is not suspicious,
but a sudden new bodyguard or friend, who then vanishes after the attack?
Malfoy would smell a set-up. He’s not dumb.”
“We could use my cloak to stay hidden,” Harry proposed.
“One of us could,” Ron corrected him. “We’re not first years any more.”
“Would they really dare cross us?” Hermione asked.
“They changed sides out of fear. A man driven by fear is unpredictable.”
“You want Greengrass and Davis to kill one of our ‘allies’.” Remus’s face
seemed set in stone when he looked at Sirius. Hermione heard Harry hiss
through his teeth and Ron mutter a curse under his breath.
seemed set in stone when he looked at Sirius. Hermione heard Harry hiss
through his teeth and Ron mutter a curse under his breath.
Sirius nodded. “It would be the safest option for all of us.”
“It would also give Greengrass and Davis leverage on you.”
Remus sounded angrier than Hermione would have expected. Why would he… Her
eyes widened when she understood what he was implying. What Remus thought
Sirius would do to solve that. She could understand it — they had tried to
kill the Weasleys — but to use them as spies, only to stab them in the back…
eyes widened when she understood what he was implying. What Remus thought
Sirius would do to solve that. She could understand it — they had tried to
kill the Weasleys — but to use them as spies, only to stab them in the back…
“Well, if we’re already talking about killing a former supporter of the Dark
Lord, can’t we kidnap them without asking beforehand, and then fake their
death as planned?”
Lord, can’t we kidnap them without asking beforehand, and then fake their
death as planned?”
She wasn’t the only one to glance at Ron in response to that proposal.
“I guess we could,” Sirius said after a moment. “It would mean I don’t have to
travel to Britain to set things up.” That meant his own mission wouldn’t be
put at risk by his absence.
travel to Britain to set things up.” That meant his own mission wouldn’t be
put at risk by his absence.
“We might need more people for that, though,” she pointed out. “People we can
trust.” The veterans of the Resistance, of course.
trust.” The veterans of the Resistance, of course.
“It would look more authentic as well,” Remus said.
“That might make Malfoy suspect a trap, though,” Harry added.
“Not necessarily. The kind of bomb we would need to use would very likely ruin
all evidence of a kidnapping, and that can be done by Greengrass and Davis.”
Hermione took a deep breath. “But Malfoy and Runcorn might expect to be told
how it was done. And that would mean they would be able to do it as well.”
all evidence of a kidnapping, and that can be done by Greengrass and Davis.”
Hermione took a deep breath. “But Malfoy and Runcorn might expect to be told
how it was done. And that would mean they would be able to do it as well.”
“They might already be aware of how to do it. Voldemort used a bomb himself to
kill Shacklebolt and his team,” Harry said. “And there was the attack in
Jamaica.”
kill Shacklebolt and his team,” Harry said. “And there was the attack in
Jamaica.”
“Alleged attack,” Hermione corrected him. He was right, though. Another reason
to avoid a new war. “I think it’s still our best option, though. Even with no
bodies and the possible suspicion that raises — there’d be an absence of
evidence, but not a fake or wrong corpse to be discovered. Greengrass and
Davis will just have to be somewhat vague. That might even improve their cover
since it might be seen as a power play.”
to avoid a new war. “I think it’s still our best option, though. Even with no
bodies and the possible suspicion that raises — there’d be an absence of
evidence, but not a fake or wrong corpse to be discovered. Greengrass and
Davis will just have to be somewhat vague. That might even improve their cover
since it might be seen as a power play.”
“So… all we need is a suitable target, then.” Sirius grinned.
---
**Shropshire Hills Area of Natural Beauty, Shropshire, Britain, April 3rd,
1997**
1997**
“What’s with the purebloods living in national parks?” Harry Potter wondered
aloud when watching the Cadwallader Cottage — which despite the name was a
small manor, not a mere cottage — through his Omnioculars.
aloud when watching the Cadwallader Cottage — which despite the name was a
small manor, not a mere cottage — through his Omnioculars.
“It makes a lot of sense, actually.” Hermione was talking in her lecturing
voice, he noticed. “Thanks to magic, they don’t need roads or other muggle
infrastructure, so they can pick locations where no muggles are living nearby.
National parks and similar areas are perfect choices.”
voice, he noticed. “Thanks to magic, they don’t need roads or other muggle
infrastructure, so they can pick locations where no muggles are living nearby.
National parks and similar areas are perfect choices.”
“I don’t think that they had national parks when those houses were built,”
Harry said. “This looks old enough to have been built before the Statute of
Secrecy.”
Harry said. “This looks old enough to have been built before the Statute of
Secrecy.”
“That doesn’t have to be true,” Ron cut in. “Many families like to pretend
that they are older than they actually are. Or at least have been richer for
longer.”
that they are older than they actually are. Or at least have been richer for
longer.”
“So, we might not be about to destroy a building English Heritage would kill
to preserve?” Hermione asked.
to preserve?” Hermione asked.
“Who?” Ron asked. Harry didn’t know the organisation either, but he had an
idea what they did. Hadn’t Uncle Vernon complained about them once?
idea what they did. Hadn’t Uncle Vernon complained about them once?
“A muggle institution tasked with preserving our heritage, mostly historic
buildings and monuments,” Hermione answered without looking away from the
building.
buildings and monuments,” Hermione answered without looking away from the
building.
“Technically, we’re not the ones who’ll destroy it,” Harry pointed out. “We’re
just the ones breaking in and kidnapping the owner.”
just the ones breaking in and kidnapping the owner.”
She snorted and shook her head. “I don’t see any magical traps or guards
before the wardline. Let’s move closer.” She moved her wand and faded from
view. Only the marker floating above her head told him where she was. Ron and
Harry followed her example.
before the wardline. Let’s move closer.” She moved her wand and faded from
view. Only the marker floating above her head told him where she was. Ron and
Harry followed her example.
They quickly crossed the green field until they reached the small wall
indicating the wardline. Muggles would just see some rocks, rocks so
uninteresting they didn’t deserve a closer look.
indicating the wardline. Muggles would just see some rocks, rocks so
uninteresting they didn’t deserve a closer look.
“I’m placing the bomb,” Hermione whispered. A moment later, a large hole
appeared in the ground. As Harry watched, the earthen walls of the hole turned
to metal. Then a large cylinder appeared on the ground next to it and floated
down into the hole, coming to rest at an angle. “Bomb’s set,” Hermione
announced.
appeared in the ground. As Harry watched, the earthen walls of the hole turned
to metal. Then a large cylinder appeared on the ground next to it and floated
down into the hole, coming to rest at an angle. “Bomb’s set,” Hermione
announced.
They moved a hundred yards to the side. Hermione created three fox holes while
Ron and Harry covered the house with jinxes to block magical travel.
Ron and Harry covered the house with jinxes to block magical travel.
“Ready,” he announced.
“Take cover!” Hermione ordered, jumping into a hole. Harry followed her
example and pressed himself against the soft earth, then quickly cast a
Silencing Charm on himself.
example and pressed himself against the soft earth, then quickly cast a
Silencing Charm on himself.
Ten seconds later, the earth trembled. He cancelled the charm and climbed out
of the foxhole.
of the foxhole.
“Wards are down!” Hermione announced after a flick of her wand. A second
later, Harry was on his Firebolt, speeding towards the now defenceless house.
Without the wards to block his Human-presence-revealing Charm, markers
appeared as soon as he was in range. Two of them — those had to be Glyn
Cadwallader and his wife. They were not moving, probably still shocked.
later, Harry was on his Firebolt, speeding towards the now defenceless house.
Without the wards to block his Human-presence-revealing Charm, markers
appeared as soon as he was in range. Two of them — those had to be Glyn
Cadwallader and his wife. They were not moving, probably still shocked.
“Targets on the first floor, south side!” Harry announced through his radio,
then pointed his wand ahead and blew a hole in the wall.
then pointed his wand ahead and blew a hole in the wall.
That made the Cadwalladers move — he saw the markers move towards the front of
the building. He saw Ron’s marker veer off, flying towards the northern side
right before he entered the building.
the building. He saw Ron’s marker veer off, flying towards the northern side
right before he entered the building.
He bled off speed in a tight turn, almost scraping along the wall inside, then
shot forward. A door barring his way was turned into splinters with a Reductor
Curse. Through the dust thrown up by the explosion he saw someone running
away. He gave chase and leveled his wand. Before he could send a Stunner after
them, figures moved to block his path. Animated suits of armour waving around
axes and swords he realised as he pulled up and came to a stop.
shot forward. A door barring his way was turned into splinters with a Reductor
Curse. Through the dust thrown up by the explosion he saw someone running
away. He gave chase and leveled his wand. Before he could send a Stunner after
them, figures moved to block his path. Animated suits of armour waving around
axes and swords he realised as he pulled up and came to a stop.
They were enchanted with protective spells he also noticed when his Blasting
Curse sent them reeling, but didn’t destroy the four of them moving towards
him. He was tempted to draw the Elder Wand and simply crush the suits, but
instead vanished the floor underneath them. He was shooting along the hallway,
after the fleeing Cadwalladers, before the suits hit the ground below.
Curse sent them reeling, but didn’t destroy the four of them moving towards
him. He was tempted to draw the Elder Wand and simply crush the suits, but
instead vanished the floor underneath them. He was shooting along the hallway,
after the fleeing Cadwalladers, before the suits hit the ground below.
Up ahead was a corner. The markers tracking the Cadwalladers were still moving
away, so he simply rose to the ceiling and took the corner as quickly as
possible. He passed above another suit of armour, a halberd glancing off his
Shield Charm — had it detected him somehow, or was it simply flailing blindly?
— and finally had a clear line of fire to the two fleeing purebloods.
away, so he simply rose to the ceiling and took the corner as quickly as
possible. He passed above another suit of armour, a halberd glancing off his
Shield Charm — had it detected him somehow, or was it simply flailing blindly?
— and finally had a clear line of fire to the two fleeing purebloods.
His Stunner hit the witch in the back, and she dropped at once. Cadwallader
himself whirled around, screaming, then toppled himself.
himself whirled around, screaming, then toppled himself.
Ron’s marker appeared behind the fallen wizard, right next to a window the
bomb had blown open. “Both targets down!” he announced. “We’re getting them
out now. Watch out for animated suits of armour!”
bomb had blown open. “Both targets down!” he announced. “We’re getting them
out now. Watch out for animated suits of armour!”
Harry turned around. He and Ron reduced the suit coming towards him to metal
fragments with a few Blasting Curses before levitating the two stunned
purebloods and leaving the house.
fragments with a few Blasting Curses before levitating the two stunned
purebloods and leaving the house.
“I’ve taken their house-elf,” he heard Hermione say as they cleared the
building, “Mission accomplished.”
building, “Mission accomplished.”
---
**Cadwallader Cottage, Shropshire, Britain, April 3rd, 1997**
Floating on her broom above the damaged house, Daphne Greengrass tried not to
shudder as she saw the werewolf levitate a huge box into the building. If that
were Exploding Fluid, then a shock would be enough to set it off. A small
mistake, a lapse in concentration on the part of the beast, and they would
vanish in a fireball.
shudder as she saw the werewolf levitate a huge box into the building. If that
were Exploding Fluid, then a shock would be enough to set it off. A small
mistake, a lapse in concentration on the part of the beast, and they would
vanish in a fireball.
Swallowing dryly, she moved her broom a little away from the house. Not too
far, though — she was certain she was under observation by whoever had broken
into the house. Probably Granger, she thought, and the rest of the Resistance.
They would be waiting for a reason to kill her.
far, though — she was certain she was under observation by whoever had broken
into the house. Probably Granger, she thought, and the rest of the Resistance.
They would be waiting for a reason to kill her.
Below her, Lupin set the box down, then flew up towards them. “The bomb’s
placed. Now fill the area with petrol. We don’t have much time.”
placed. Now fill the area with petrol. We don’t have much time.”
“Did they get a warning to the Ministry?” Tracey asked, gasping.
“No, but muggles might have noticed the explosion already.”
“Ah.” Muggles they could handle, Daphne knew.
“Get going,” the werewolf snarled at her.
Flinching, Daphne did as ordered. A few Doubling Charms later, the house was
filled with petrol bottles.
filled with petrol bottles.
“Follow me!” the beast ordered before she could inform him.
She flew after him, Tracey trailing behind her. Lupin flew over a small hill,
then landed. His wand flicked, and Daphne couldn’t hear anything any more. She
opened her mouth to protest, drawing her wand, but stopped when Lupin pulled a
muggle contraption out of his robes and pushed a button.
then landed. His wand flicked, and Daphne couldn’t hear anything any more. She
opened her mouth to protest, drawing her wand, but stopped when Lupin pulled a
muggle contraption out of his robes and pushed a button.
She didn’t hear anything when the bomb went off. She was still turning when
the light flared up, but she saw the fireball rise behind them, felt the earth
tremble, felt the air hit her. “Merlin’s beard!” she whispered, or thought she
did — she couldn’t hear herself either.
the light flared up, but she saw the fireball rise behind them, felt the earth
tremble, felt the air hit her. “Merlin’s beard!” she whispered, or thought she
did — she couldn’t hear herself either.
She was panting when smoke replaced the flames and the light grew dimmer,
flames no longer reaching above the crest of the hill behind them. It looked
far too much like Malfoy Manor. Where her parents had been killed.
flames no longer reaching above the crest of the hill behind them. It looked
far too much like Malfoy Manor. Where her parents had been killed.
She didn’t notice that Lupin had cancelled the Silencing Charm until he shook
her shoulder. “We need to leave. Apparate!”
her shoulder. “We need to leave. Apparate!”
Panting, she stared at him, shaking her head.
He cursed, then grabbed her arm, then Tracey’s. “Sorry about this, but we have
to leave.”
to leave.”
A second later, Daphne experienced the familiar feeling of being forced
through a small tube as he took her and Tracey by Side-Along-Apparition.
through a small tube as he took her and Tracey by Side-Along-Apparition.
Chapter 59: Escalation
======================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. He improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 59: Escalation**
*‘It is telling that in the midst of an international crisis, with Britain
under close scrutiny by the International Confederation of Wizards and Jamaica
all but threatening war, the radical muggleborns still refused to present a
united front to the foreign forces. Instead of closing ranks with the
Ministry, they hunted down pureblood families who had gone into hiding months
previously. Not only did they put the entire country at risk, but they also
had nothing to show for their efforts. For as it turned out, those they caught
had not hidden in preparation to strike at the muggleborns, but to save their
lives during the height of the Second Blood War. And while some of my
colleagues might consider the fact that the captured purebloods were handed
over to the Ministry as a desire for reconciliation, I refute that opinion.
The victims of this ’witch hunt’ were handed over to the Ministry for the sole
purpose of further dividing the Ministry’s meagre forces and weakening those
who still opposed Black and his allies in the Wizengamot.’*
under close scrutiny by the International Confederation of Wizards and Jamaica
all but threatening war, the radical muggleborns still refused to present a
united front to the foreign forces. Instead of closing ranks with the
Ministry, they hunted down pureblood families who had gone into hiding months
previously. Not only did they put the entire country at risk, but they also
had nothing to show for their efforts. For as it turned out, those they caught
had not hidden in preparation to strike at the muggleborns, but to save their
lives during the height of the Second Blood War. And while some of my
colleagues might consider the fact that the captured purebloods were handed
over to the Ministry as a desire for reconciliation, I refute that opinion.
The victims of this ’witch hunt’ were handed over to the Ministry for the sole
purpose of further dividing the Ministry’s meagre forces and weakening those
who still opposed Black and his allies in the Wizengamot.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, April 3rd, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass felt like vomiting when she regained her balance inside her
home. Not because she had just been transported by Side-Along-Apparition —
that was unpleasant, but she had been taught to endure it as a child. No, but
to re-enact the murder of her parents, on the order of those responsible… She
wanted to scream, to cry, to curse the monster who had forced her through that
ordeal.
home. Not because she had just been transported by Side-Along-Apparition —
that was unpleasant, but she had been taught to endure it as a child. No, but
to re-enact the murder of her parents, on the order of those responsible… She
wanted to scream, to cry, to curse the monster who had forced her through that
ordeal.
But she couldn’t. If she did, she’d doom her remaining family. Herself and her
sister. Instead, she forced herself to remain calm and smoothed out her robe
with a flick of her wand.
sister. Instead, she forced herself to remain calm and smoothed out her robe
with a flick of her wand.
Tracey wasn’t quite as composed, however, and was muttering curses under her
breath while she took deep breaths, trembling — with rage or horror, or both.
Daphne couldn’t tell.
breath while she took deep breaths, trembling — with rage or horror, or both.
Daphne couldn’t tell.
“Are you alright?” The werewolf asked, with fake concern. “The force of the
explosion shouldn’t have reached us behind the hill, although I confess to a
lack of personal experience in that area.”
explosion shouldn’t have reached us behind the hill, although I confess to a
lack of personal experience in that area.”
Daphne reached out and wrapped an arm around her friend’s shoulders. “We are
alright, considering the circumstances,” she said through clenched teeth. She
wanted the monster gone from her home, from her life. She wanted to stop
hurting, to stop fearing, to stop feeling. She wanted to be free of all this.
alright, considering the circumstances,” she said through clenched teeth. She
wanted the monster gone from her home, from her life. She wanted to stop
hurting, to stop fearing, to stop feeling. She wanted to be free of all this.
Tracey wiped her eyes — with her hand, not her wand, and slowly nodded. She
wasn’t raising her head, though, and stared at the ground.
wasn’t raising her head, though, and stared at the ground.
Daphne heard the beast gasp and mutter: “Merlin’s staff! I didn’t realise… no
one did… I’m sorry.”
one did… I’m sorry.”
She didn’t look at it. If the creature pitied her, instead of hating her, then
that would be even worse. She could deal with hatred, but to have sunk so low
that her enemies took pity on her? That would be a disgrace. So she shook her
head, and fell back on the manners her parents had taught her. “It is late. I
think we should retire for the night,” she said, not quite managing to sound
as polite as she wanted.
that would be even worse. She could deal with hatred, but to have sunk so low
that her enemies took pity on her? That would be a disgrace. So she shook her
head, and fell back on the manners her parents had taught her. “It is late. I
think we should retire for the night,” she said, not quite managing to sound
as polite as she wanted.
It seemed to be enough, though — the werewolf straightened up and nodded. “Of
course. Good night, Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis.”
course. Good night, Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis.”
“Good night,” Tracey mumbled and Daphne could feel her friend’s breathing
slowing down as the creature left them.
slowing down as the creature left them.
Once the door closed behind it, she clenched her eyes shut and tried to ignore
the tears running down her cheeks.
the tears running down her cheeks.
---
**Cadwallader Cottage, Shropshire, Britain, April 3rd, 1997**
Amelia Bones drew a hissing breath through clenched teeth when she saw the
devastation wrought upon the Cadwalladers’ estate . Where their house had
stood, only burned out ruins remained. The destruction was as complete as that
of Malfoy Manor.
devastation wrought upon the Cadwalladers’ estate . Where their house had
stood, only burned out ruins remained. The destruction was as complete as that
of Malfoy Manor.
She noticed differences as well, though, as she walked towards the northern
part of the ruins, where she spotted Pius and Dawlish. There were no bodies
lined up, and there was no smell of burned flesh permeating the air. And on
closer inspection the ruins were different as well, though she couldn’t say
exactly how they differed.
part of the ruins, where she spotted Pius and Dawlish. There were no bodies
lined up, and there was no smell of burned flesh permeating the air. And on
closer inspection the ruins were different as well, though she couldn’t say
exactly how they differed.
“Report!” she barked as soon as she was close enough to talk to her
underlings.
underlings.
Pius straightened up. “Good morning, Amelia,” he said.
She ignored the reprimand implicit in his polite greeting. She wanted answers,
not empty courtesies. “What have you found out so far?”
not empty courtesies. “What have you found out so far?”
Pius glanced at Dawlish, and the Head Auror took a deep breath. “We were
alerted by the Obliviators at four in the morning that there was an explosion
in this area, and that they had handled the muggle authorities who had been
about to investigate. An Auror patrol quickly spotted the, at the time, still
burning ruins, and alerted the Department. We deployed the reserve force and
secured the area, in case it was an ambush, then put the fire out.”
alerted by the Obliviators at four in the morning that there was an explosion
in this area, and that they had handled the muggle authorities who had been
about to investigate. An Auror patrol quickly spotted the, at the time, still
burning ruins, and alerted the Department. We deployed the reserve force and
secured the area, in case it was an ambush, then put the fire out.”
Amelia made a mental note that it hadn’t been Fiendfyre. She nodded at
Dawlish. “Go on.”
Dawlish. “Go on.”
“We searched the ruins, but the destruction and the fire had not left much in
a recognisable state. As far as we can tell, the wards were destroyed with a
muggle bomb, as was the house, and the ruins were then set on fire using large
amounts of petrol.”
a recognisable state. As far as we can tell, the wards were destroyed with a
muggle bomb, as was the house, and the ruins were then set on fire using large
amounts of petrol.”
She frowned. “Petrol? Refined?” She did recall that the Resistance had not
used regular petrol, but she couldn’t recall the correct name for their
mixture.
used regular petrol, but she couldn’t recall the correct name for their
mixture.
Pius shook his head. “No. Not like the kind used against Malfoy Manor.”
“And there were two bombs, not one,” Dawlish added.
“One to take care of the wards, and one to destroy the house. Peculiar,” Pius
said.
said.
“Indeed.” Amelia narrowed her eyes. It could be the Resistance’s work. Or the
work of someone trying to frame them. Or the result of the Resistance trying
to make her think they were being framed. “Did you find the Cadwalladers?”
work of someone trying to frame them. Or the result of the Resistance trying
to make her think they were being framed. “Did you find the Cadwalladers?”
Dawlish shook his head. “No. We haven’t found any bodies so far. They might
not have been at home when the attack took place, but they haven’t contacted
us so far.”
not have been at home when the attack took place, but they haven’t contacted
us so far.”
“I doubt they would,” Pius said, “After such an attack, most would stay
hidden.”
hidden.”
“They might have been kidnapped,” Dawlish speculated. “One bomb to breach the
wards, another to hide the kidnapping.”
wards, another to hide the kidnapping.”
Amelia nodded. “Possible. But that doesn’t narrow down the range of suspects.”
The remnants of Malfoy and Runcorn’s faction saw the Cadwalladers as traitors,
and Amelia was certain that many muggleborns hadn’t forgiven them for
supporting Malfoy, even though they had switched sides. She sighed. “Go
through the entire area. If there’s a single finger bone left, I want it
found. And contact the Department of Mysteries, and have them investigate the
explosives and spells used. We need to know who did this, before things
escalate.”
The remnants of Malfoy and Runcorn’s faction saw the Cadwalladers as traitors,
and Amelia was certain that many muggleborns hadn’t forgiven them for
supporting Malfoy, even though they had switched sides. She sighed. “Go
through the entire area. If there’s a single finger bone left, I want it
found. And contact the Department of Mysteries, and have them investigate the
explosives and spells used. We need to know who did this, before things
escalate.”
“Of course,” Pius said, inclining his head. Dawlish nodded.
But Amelia knew that neither of the two believed that they would achieve that
goal.
goal.
She didn’t believe it either, but they had to try.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, April 3rd, 1997**
Bess Cox kept looking around while she walked next to Randall towards
‘Winston’s’. The bar had been reopened for the second time, in defiance of the
attack a month ago, and Bess was certain that the purebloods would attempt to
attack it again, since it had become a symbol for the muggleborns. That wasn’t
the only reason for Bess’s nervousness, though.
‘Winston’s’. The bar had been reopened for the second time, in defiance of the
attack a month ago, and Bess was certain that the purebloods would attempt to
attack it again, since it had become a symbol for the muggleborns. That wasn’t
the only reason for Bess’s nervousness, though.
As if he had read her thoughts, Randall whispered: “Relax, we’re safe. As safe
as you can be as a muggleborn in Diagon Alley.”
as you can be as a muggleborn in Diagon Alley.”
She snorted, and answered in a low voice: “I’m still a wanted witch.”
“No Ministry thug would dare try anything here,” her friend retorted. “It’d
start a riot.”
start a riot.”
“Unless they are working with the Resistance.” Bess knew that that wasn’t
impossible — the Ministry had co-operated with the Resistance before, during
the war. And Granger was stuck on working within the system.
impossible — the Ministry had co-operated with the Resistance before, during
the war. And Granger was stuck on working within the system.
“Well, that’s not…” Randall trailed off and stared at a wizard who was reading
a newspaper. “An evening issue of the Prophet?”
a newspaper. “An evening issue of the Prophet?”
Bess tensed. That only happened if…
The other wizard looked up. “You haven’t heard? Someone blew up the
Cadwallader manor!”
Cadwallader manor!”
The name didn’t mean anything to Bess, and a glance told her that Randall was
at a loss too. “Who’s that?” she snapped.
at a loss too. “Who’s that?” she snapped.
“A Wizengamot member.”
A pureblood then, and from an Old Family. “Who did it?”
“They don’t know yet. But according to the Prophet the Resistance deny that
they had anything to do with the attack.”
they had anything to do with the attack.”
“A mysterious new group did this?” Randall sounded sceptical.
Bess glanced at him. “It’s possible. The Resistance weren’t the only group
fighting during the war.” Her friends had fought as well!
fighting during the war.” Her friends had fought as well!
“Whoever they are, they’re more radical,” the unknown muggleborn pointed at a
paragraph on the front page. “Cadwallader just joined Black’s faction in the
Wizengamot — after he had voted for the bigots for months.”
paragraph on the front page. “Cadwallader just joined Black’s faction in the
Wizengamot — after he had voted for the bigots for months.”
“No loss then,” Randall said, craning his neck to peer at the article. “That
looks like Malfoy Manor. But… they didn’t find the bodies?”
looks like Malfoy Manor. But… they didn’t find the bodies?”
“So the Prophet claims.” The man snorted. “But you know how incompetent the
Aurors are.”
Aurors are.”
After everyone had had a laugh about that, Randall asked if he could copy the
issue.
issue.
A Doubling Charm later, Randall and Bess continued towards ‘Winston’s’.
“Do you think they kidnapped them?” Bess asked. “And keep your eyes on the
street! We can read the newspaper in detail once we’re safe.”
street! We can read the newspaper in detail once we’re safe.”
Randall glared at her, then nodded and folded the newspaper. “It’s possible.
And it would explain why no one has claimed responsibility. If the corpses
turn up in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley we’ll know.”
And it would explain why no one has claimed responsibility. If the corpses
turn up in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley we’ll know.”
Bess knew that her friends also hadn’t planned to claim responsibility for
their fatal attack on Hogsmeade, but they had been fools. Unlike this new
group — they had levelled the entire house. “Maybe it’s the Resistance.
They’re putting up a nice front, but are taking the scum out one by one.”
their fatal attack on Hogsmeade, but they had been fools. Unlike this new
group — they had levelled the entire house. “Maybe it’s the Resistance.
They’re putting up a nice front, but are taking the scum out one by one.”
Randall shook his head. “I doubt that. If Granger wanted to do that, she’d
have continued the war against the Ministry right after the Battle of Diagon
Alley. It could be a splinter group of the Resistance, though.”
have continued the war against the Ministry right after the Battle of Diagon
Alley. It could be a splinter group of the Resistance, though.”
“Huh?”
He shrugged. “Not everyone in the Resistance might be content to follow
Granger’s orders while she reaps all the benefits. She’s famous, has an Order
of Merlin, a seat in the Wizengamot, and Black probably pays her a fortune for
her support.”
Granger’s orders while she reaps all the benefits. She’s famous, has an Order
of Merlin, a seat in the Wizengamot, and Black probably pays her a fortune for
her support.”
That made a lot of sense to Bess. That was how it usually worked out, didn’t
it? A few people getting rich and powerful while the rest were left behind.
“Sell-out,” she mumbled.
it? A few people getting rich and powerful while the rest were left behind.
“Sell-out,” she mumbled.
“Exactly.”
They reached the bar and Bess was glad to notice that half a dozen people were
spread out, wand in hand. Guards. She was even more glad, though, when she
entered the bar and the protection of its wards.
spread out, wand in hand. Guards. She was even more glad, though, when she
entered the bar and the protection of its wards.
Inside, it was loud and crowded. “Pretty brave of them, to gather here,” she
said to Randall while they pressed through to the bar.
said to Randall while they pressed through to the bar.
“Pretty brave of us,” he shot back with a grin.
Bess shook her head. Compared to actually going out and fighting purebloods
and Death Eaters, showing up at a well-protected bar didn’t take much courage,
at least in her opinion. On the other hand… Her eyes widened and she patted
Randall on the back until he turned to look at her. “Get me a beer! I’ll get
us a table!” she yelled into his ear. He nodded, and she pushed towards the
back.
and Death Eaters, showing up at a well-protected bar didn’t take much courage,
at least in her opinion. On the other hand… Her eyes widened and she patted
Randall on the back until he turned to look at her. “Get me a beer! I’ll get
us a table!” she yelled into his ear. He nodded, and she pushed towards the
back.
She was lucky — a couple got up just when she passed their table, and they
didn’t leave their coats. She slid on to the bench and smirked at another
witch who had been just a bit too slow.
didn’t leave their coats. She slid on to the bench and smirked at another
witch who had been just a bit too slow.
It took her friend five more minutes to reach her. “Finally!” she exclaimed
when he set down a glass in front of her.
when he set down a glass in front of her.
“You must be really thirsty.” He shook his head with that grin of his.
“Not really. I just had a thought.” She grinned at him. “We should start our
own group and recruit people!”
own group and recruit people!”
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 3rd, 1997**
*“… once more the muggleborns show their true colours! Not content with
driving pureblood families out of Wizarding Britain, they now are hunting down
those poor people who are hiding among muggles! The message is clear: No
pureblood is safe, not even if they abandon magic! The muggleborns want to
kill us all!*
driving pureblood families out of Wizarding Britain, they now are hunting down
those poor people who are hiding among muggles! The message is clear: No
pureblood is safe, not even if they abandon magic! The muggleborns want to
kill us all!*
*“And not even those who abandon their blood and heritage and join the blood
traitors are safe! Glyn Cadwallader recently joined Sirius Black’s alliance —
and yesterday, his manor suffered the same fate as Malfoy Manor at the hands
of muggleborn criminals!*
traitors are safe! Glyn Cadwallader recently joined Sirius Black’s alliance —
and yesterday, his manor suffered the same fate as Malfoy Manor at the hands
of muggleborn criminals!*
*“And once again, the Ministry has been revealed as powerless. What Aurors are
left aren’t being sent to protect the persecuted purebloods, but rather to
prosecute innocent purebloods!*
left aren’t being sent to protect the persecuted purebloods, but rather to
prosecute innocent purebloods!*
*“This has to stop! We all have to band together before it’s too late. In the
Wizengamot, in the Ministry, on the streets of Hogsmeade and in Diagon Alley,
we need to make a stand! We need to fight for our traditions, for our
families, for our very lives, or we will perish at the hands of the
muggleborns!*
Wizengamot, in the Ministry, on the streets of Hogsmeade and in Diagon Alley,
we need to make a stand! We need to fight for our traditions, for our
families, for our very lives, or we will perish at the hands of the
muggleborns!*
*“Remember our history! Remember our traditions! Do not let the muggleborns
win! It’s better to die fighting than live as slaves!*
win! It’s better to die fighting than live as slaves!*
*“This is the Pureblood Voice!”*
The nerve of those people! Amelia Bones refrained from blasting the wireless
receiver in her office. Instead, she calmly flicked it off and turned to Pius.
“After hearing that, I don’t think I need to ask whether or not your attempts
to stop these broadcasts have made any progress.”
receiver in her office. Instead, she calmly flicked it off and turned to Pius.
“After hearing that, I don’t think I need to ask whether or not your attempts
to stop these broadcasts have made any progress.”
“We’re still working on ways to track them,” he replied.
She snorted. “And meanwhile, they are doing their best to incite another war
in Britain.”
in Britain.”
“That was to be expected,” he told her. “An obvious reaction by the radical
elements.”
elements.”
“Obvious in more than one sense,” she said. “I would be lying if I claimed
that they were entirely wrong about the current state of Wizarding Britain.”
that they were entirely wrong about the current state of Wizarding Britain.”
He frowned for a moment. “The muggleborns are not indiscriminately hunting
purebloods, apart from suspected Death Eaters and sympathisers. Black and many
of his friends are purebloods, and allied with the Muggleborn Resistance.”
purebloods, apart from suspected Death Eaters and sympathisers. Black and many
of his friends are purebloods, and allied with the Muggleborn Resistance.”
“The Resistance themselves might refrain” — personally, Amelia doubted that —
“but they don’t control all of the muggleborns. The recently captured
‘suspects’ were not exactly members of the Dark Lord’s Inner Circle.”
“but they don’t control all of the muggleborns. The recently captured
‘suspects’ were not exactly members of the Dark Lord’s Inner Circle.”
“We’re preparing to prosecute the Fleaweathers. They did support the Dark
Lord, if not as combatants. But their gold contributed.” Pius sounded slightly
defensive.
Lord, if not as combatants. But their gold contributed.” Pius sounded slightly
defensive.
“And the Roviers?” Amelia was already aware of the results of that
investigation, but she liked seeing Pius squirm. As much as the usually
unflappable wizard actually did, of course.
investigation, but she liked seeing Pius squirm. As much as the usually
unflappable wizard actually did, of course.
“The girl didn’t do anything illegal, although she has a quite poor opinion of
muggleborns.”
muggleborns.”
“In other words, she might turn terrorist herself in a few years.” Amelia
snorted.
snorted.
“Interrogation under Veritaserum has not revealed any such plans.” Pius
briefly pressed his lips together.
briefly pressed his lips together.
“She and her brother haven’t been released yet, though.” Amelia rested her
chin on her steepled fingers.
chin on her steepled fingers.
“They are currently being held in the Ministry for their own protection.”
“We wouldn’t want to have them suffer Nott’s fate, would we? Or the
Cadwalladers’,” she said. “But the longer we hold them, the more guilty they
will appear.”
Cadwalladers’,” she said. “But the longer we hold them, the more guilty they
will appear.”
“We’re looking into measures to protect them after their release.”
“Can we spare the wands for that?” She knew they couldn’t, as did he.
“Not until the latest Hit-Wizard recruits finish their training.” Pius
shrugged in an almost French way as if this wasn’t their biggest problem.
shrugged in an almost French way as if this wasn’t their biggest problem.
“Start using them for actual tasks instead of training missions.” As the war
had shown, even half-trained wizards and witches could be used effectively.
had shown, even half-trained wizards and witches could be used effectively.
“That could put them, and others, at risk. They’re not ready for deployment,
especially not in the current, slightly tense situation. They are currently at
the stage where they are overly confident.” Pius pursed his lips. “The odds
that a confrontation with the muggleborns would occur are quite high, in my
opinion. And if such an incident were to escalate…”
especially not in the current, slightly tense situation. They are currently at
the stage where they are overly confident.” Pius pursed his lips. “The odds
that a confrontation with the muggleborns would occur are quite high, in my
opinion. And if such an incident were to escalate…”
Amelia scoffed. “Use them for safe tasks where they don’t have to deal with
muggleborns. It’ll free up our more experienced people.” Who, unfortunately,
were not really that experienced either. But experienced enough not to start
trouble with the Resistance, at least.
muggleborns. It’ll free up our more experienced people.” Who, unfortunately,
were not really that experienced either. But experienced enough not to start
trouble with the Resistance, at least.
“I don’t think that there are many missions where they wouldn’t have to deal
with muggleborns sooner or later,” Pius pointed out.
with muggleborns sooner or later,” Pius pointed out.
“As long as it’s later rather than sooner.” Every little thing would help with
increasing the Ministry’s effective manpower. “What did you find out about the
attack on the Cadwalladers?”
increasing the Ministry’s effective manpower. “What did you find out about the
attack on the Cadwalladers?”
As usual, Pius showed no reaction to the change of topic. “Preliminary
analyses by the Department of Mysteries claim that the explosive used in the
attack was different from the one used by the Resistance. Less effective as
well. The same applies to the fluid used to start the fire.”
analyses by the Department of Mysteries claim that the explosive used in the
attack was different from the one used by the Resistance. Less effective as
well. The same applies to the fluid used to start the fire.”
Both could have been planned to obscure the identity of the attackers, of
course. She nodded anyway, prompting him to go on.
course. She nodded anyway, prompting him to go on.
“They used one explosion to breach the wards, and another to destroy the
building. Again, different from the attack on Malfoy Manor last year.”
building. Again, different from the attack on Malfoy Manor last year.”
“Not too different, though — the Resistance dropped a petrol mixture on the
Manor after the explosion,” Amelia corrected him.
Manor after the explosion,” Amelia corrected him.
He acknowledged the point with a small nod. “We haven’t found any remains. The
Unspeakables claim that they have more precises methods to find even traces of
a body, but haven’t had any success so far either.”
Unspeakables claim that they have more precises methods to find even traces of
a body, but haven’t had any success so far either.”
“That would point towards a kidnapping.”
“It is possible,” he admitted. “If that is true then we can expect a statement
from the culprits soon enough, which should give us more insight into their
identity and aims.”
from the culprits soon enough, which should give us more insight into their
identity and aims.”
“Or the corpses of the Cadwalladers dropped in the middle of Hogsmeade.” Which
would likely offer more insight as well.
would likely offer more insight as well.
Amelia shook her head. “Bombs and kidnappings… this is looking more and more
as if we are back in the war.”
as if we are back in the war.”
Pius didn’t say anything in response.
---
**London, Hampstead, April 3rd, 1997**
“How are they doing?” Hermione Granger asked, stepping into the guarded room
in the safe house that served as an infirmary — and holding cell. Glyn and
Patricia Cadwallader were lying on two conjured cots.
in the safe house that served as an infirmary — and holding cell. Glyn and
Patricia Cadwallader were lying on two conjured cots.
“We haven’t woken them up,” Sally-Anne answered. “They’re not hurt, though at
their age, they shouldn’t be kept unconscious for too long.”
their age, they shouldn’t be kept unconscious for too long.”
Hermione nodded. “We’ll be interrogating them soon.”
“Aren’t they our allies, technically at least?” the other witch asked.
She scoffed. They had gone over this before. “Cadwallader only abandoned
Malfoy when he realised that we would win. Until then he supported any and all
anti-muggleborn proposals in the Wizengamot. This is a good opportunity to
find out if they have done more than just vote for Voldemort.”
Malfoy when he realised that we would win. Until then he supported any and all
anti-muggleborn proposals in the Wizengamot. This is a good opportunity to
find out if they have done more than just vote for Voldemort.”
Sally-Anne slowly nodded.
Hermione shrugged. “Though if our interrogation reveals that they can be
trusted, we won’t use the Draught of Living Death.” She would be shocked if
that was the case, though.
trusted, we won’t use the Draught of Living Death.” She would be shocked if
that was the case, though.
“And if they have done more? If they murdered people?”
Hermione pressed her lips together. If they killed the Cadwalladers — executed
them — then Greengrass and Davis would have a more solid cover. But if they
later revealed the deception… Meting out vigilante justice would send a clear
message to both purebloods and muggleborns: that the Resistance was acting as
judge, jury and executioner, just as they had during the war. That would
encourage more muggleborns to take the law into their own hands, weaken the
Ministry further and scare more purebloods into thinking that even if they
switched sides they wouldn’t be safe. In short, it would make rebuilding
Wizarding Britain into a functioning country far more difficult. She sighed.
“We’ll deliver them to the Ministry to be tried — but if all goes well we’ll
be in control by then.”
them — then Greengrass and Davis would have a more solid cover. But if they
later revealed the deception… Meting out vigilante justice would send a clear
message to both purebloods and muggleborns: that the Resistance was acting as
judge, jury and executioner, just as they had during the war. That would
encourage more muggleborns to take the law into their own hands, weaken the
Ministry further and scare more purebloods into thinking that even if they
switched sides they wouldn’t be safe. In short, it would make rebuilding
Wizarding Britain into a functioning country far more difficult. She sighed.
“We’ll deliver them to the Ministry to be tried — but if all goes well we’ll
be in control by then.”
Sally-Anne frowned. “Or at war.” She sighed. “Sorry… it’s just… we beat the
Dark Lord, we beat the Ministry, but we just have more problems. The French,
the houngans, the remaining bigots…”
Dark Lord, we beat the Ministry, but we just have more problems. The French,
the houngans, the remaining bigots…”
Hermione was tempted to respond with a platitude like ‘that’s life for you’.
Instead, she said: “We’ll solve those problems, and any others that crop up.”
Instead, she said: “We’ll solve those problems, and any others that crop up.”
Her friend nodded, though she didn’t seem to be convinced. “I just wish we
could spend more time together, without worrying about all of this.” She
sighed again.
could spend more time together, without worrying about all of this.” She
sighed again.
“Yes.” Hermione knew who Sally-Anne wanted to spend more time together with.
Just like Hermione did. “And we will.”
Just like Hermione did. “And we will.”
As soon as they were done with the current crisis.
---
“Huh… what… you!”
Hermione saw Cadwallader’s eyes widen when he recognised her. “Yes, me.” She
nodded.
nodded.
“Why did you attack us? Patricia! What did you do with her?”
“Stunned her, like you.” She stood up and walked closer to the wizard while he
struggled against the bonds that kept him tied to his chair.
struggled against the bonds that kept him tied to his chair.
“We’re allies! Black said so!”
He was starting to breathe heavily. Not hyperventilating, though. And since
Sally-Anne wasn’t stepping in he shouldn’t be in any danger of suffering a
heart attack.
Sally-Anne wasn’t stepping in he shouldn’t be in any danger of suffering a
heart attack.
Hermione nodded slowly. “Yes. You switched sides.” She waited a moment before
continuing. “Malfoy didn’t like that, and arranged to have you killed.”
continuing. “Malfoy didn’t like that, and arranged to have you killed.”
“You’re working for Malfoy?”
She stared at him. He must have been more affected by the Stunner than she had
thought, to blurt out that kind of inane nonsense. “No. We attacked you to
fake your death, and make him think his plot succeeded so we can gather proof
of his crimes.”
thought, to blurt out that kind of inane nonsense. “No. We attacked you to
fake your death, and make him think his plot succeeded so we can gather proof
of his crimes.”
“Ah.” He was starting to smile, then stopped. “But…” He pulled on the bonds
again, then stared at her.
again, then stared at her.
She nodded, and pulled out a vial of Veritaserum from her pocket. “Yes. We
decided that this was also a good opportunity to find out if you can be
trusted.”
decided that this was also a good opportunity to find out if you can be
trusted.”
Judging by the way the man paled and started to tremble, Hermione was already
certain of the answer to that question.
certain of the answer to that question.
---
“…she agreed.”
Hermione glanced at the parchment where the Dictaquill was writing down the
transcript of Cadwallader’s interrogation, then looked at the drugged wizard.
“Why did you decide to join Black?”
transcript of Cadwallader’s interrogation, then looked at the drugged wizard.
“Why did you decide to join Black?”
“To be safe.”
“Was that the only reason?”
“No.”
“What other reasons did you have?” Not for the first time, Hermione wished
Veritaserum worked a bit differently — having to pull out answers like this
was tedious.
Veritaserum worked a bit differently — having to pull out answers like this
was tedious.
“I hoped to be rewarded.”
Typical. “By Black?”
“Yes.”
“Would you betray Black if you had the opportunity to do so safely and be
rewarded?”
rewarded?”
“Yes.”
That didn’t come as a surprise. She shook her head. “Would you prefer that the
muggleborns were gone from WIzarding Britain?”
muggleborns were gone from WIzarding Britain?”
“Yes,” the man droned.
“Would you have killed muggleborns if you had had the opportunity?”
“No.”
That surprised her. “Why not?”
“I don’t like killing.”
“But you supported the Dark Lord!” Sally-Anne exclaimed, then bit her lip.
“Sorry.”
“Sorry.”
Hermione glanced at her friend, then turned back to their prisoner. “Do you
mind if others kill muggleborns?”
mind if others kill muggleborns?”
“Yes.”
“Do you want the muggleborns gone, but not dead?”
“Yes.”
“Do you wish for the muggleborns to serve the purebloods?”
“No.”
The man wasn’t really making sense, she thought. “Why not?”
“They’re too dangerous.”
Ah. Hermione smiled grimly. It was time to wrap this up. “Would you support a
war against the Ministry and Wizengamot, if they were controlled by
muggleborns and Black?”
war against the Ministry and Wizengamot, if they were controlled by
muggleborns and Black?”
“No.”
“Would you do it if you were certain you wouldn’t suffer for it?”
“Yes.”
She had his measure now. “Sally-Anne? Do you have any questions?”
Her friend shook her head. “No. I’ll fetch the Draught of Living Death.”
“Please.” They couldn’t trust Cadwallader, as expected. Hermione pointed her
wand at the man’s head.
wand at the man’s head.
“Obliviate.”
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 3rd, 1997**
“… they’re currently under the influence of Draught of Living Death since
they’d switch sides again if they were given the opportunity.”
they’d switch sides again if they were given the opportunity.”
Ron Weasley snorted after hearing Hermione’s summary. “They won’t be happy to
have been used as bait.”
have been used as bait.”
“They’ll be even less happy once they’re being prosecuted for supporting
Voldemort,” Harry added.
Voldemort,” Harry added.
“Will they actually be prosecuted?” Ron asked. “You just said that they didn’t
do anything other than voting for the Dark Lord’s proposals.”
do anything other than voting for the Dark Lord’s proposals.”
“Those laws and bills started the whole war,” Harry replied with a scoff.
“If we were to prosecute them for voting for the Muggleborn Laws we should
also prosecute over half the Wizengamot,” Hermione said. “Such a course of
action would not only provide fuel for pureblood propaganda, but it would also
set a precedent of the Ministry’s authority over the Wizengamot, since the
DMLE would then be able to influence the political process by prosecuting
members of the Wizengamot for their politics. That’s a recipe for disaster.”
also prosecute over half the Wizengamot,” Hermione said. “Such a course of
action would not only provide fuel for pureblood propaganda, but it would also
set a precedent of the Ministry’s authority over the Wizengamot, since the
DMLE would then be able to influence the political process by prosecuting
members of the Wizengamot for their politics. That’s a recipe for disaster.”
“I thought you wanted more checks and balances,” Ron said. “So the Wizengamot
couldn’t pass laws that violated human rights.”
couldn’t pass laws that violated human rights.”
“Yes.” She nodded. “But only in the form of a special court composed of judges
under oath that could repeal such laws. Prosecuting the Wizengamot members for
their votes goes too far. It’s one step from prosecuting people for their
opinions.”
under oath that could repeal such laws. Prosecuting the Wizengamot members for
their votes goes too far. It’s one step from prosecuting people for their
opinions.”
“Certain opinions should be illegal,” Ron said. Like bigots’ and Death
Eaters’. If they were allowed to spread their views, Britain would never be
free of their ideology. Neither Hermione nor Harry seemed to share his
opinion, though.
Eaters’. If they were allowed to spread their views, Britain would never be
free of their ideology. Neither Hermione nor Harry seemed to share his
opinion, though.
“That’s not a good idea,” Harry said. “Freedom of speech is a basic human
right.”
right.”
“We don’t have to go as far as the United States go, though,” Hermione added.
Ron snorted — the Magical Americas were anything but united. “Britain and many
European nations are more restrictive, especially when it comes to
hatemongering.”
Ron snorted — the Magical Americas were anything but united. “Britain and many
European nations are more restrictive, especially when it comes to
hatemongering.”
He shrugged. “I’d prefer it if they couldn’t spread their poison any more, no
matter how they word it.”
matter how they word it.”
“We all would,” Hermione said. ‘But human rights are universal, not tied to
the colour of your skin or your opinions on blood. We have to grant them to
our enemies too, or we’ve already taken the first step towards losing them
ourselves.’ She sighed. “But that aside, if we do prosecute everyone who voted
against muggleborns, we’d only drive more purebloods into the arms of Malfoy
and his ilk, and even our allies would assume that if they opposed us they’d
risk being prosecuted themselves. Even if we didn’t have another war on our
hands as a result, the Wizengamot would soon turn into a mass of sycophants
who wouldn’t dare to point out any mistakes in the government’s proposals and
policies. Which would mean such mistakes would not be corrected, but
implemented.”
the colour of your skin or your opinions on blood. We have to grant them to
our enemies too, or we’ve already taken the first step towards losing them
ourselves.’ She sighed. “But that aside, if we do prosecute everyone who voted
against muggleborns, we’d only drive more purebloods into the arms of Malfoy
and his ilk, and even our allies would assume that if they opposed us they’d
risk being prosecuted themselves. Even if we didn’t have another war on our
hands as a result, the Wizengamot would soon turn into a mass of sycophants
who wouldn’t dare to point out any mistakes in the government’s proposals and
policies. Which would mean such mistakes would not be corrected, but
implemented.”
“Ah.” Ron was starting to see the problem.
“Not to mention that the Wizengamot is supposed to control the Ministry. If
the Head of the DMLE can put a Wizengamot member in prison for their political
beliefs, that’s no longer the case. A strong Minister could dominate the
Wizengamot — to the point of removing any opposition. The bureaucracy is
powerful enough without also giving them the power to arrest Parliament.”
the Head of the DMLE can put a Wizengamot member in prison for their political
beliefs, that’s no longer the case. A strong Minister could dominate the
Wizengamot — to the point of removing any opposition. The bureaucracy is
powerful enough without also giving them the power to arrest Parliament.”
“Which means,” Harry said with a sneer, ‘that the Cadwalladers will escape
punishment.’ He shook his head. “I don’t think many muggleborns will be happy
about that.”
punishment.’ He shook his head. “I don’t think many muggleborns will be happy
about that.”
“I know they won’t be happy. But we need to draw the line there, or we’ll lose
any chance of rebuilding Wizarding Britain into a better country,” Hermione
said. “We can’t give in to the desire for vengeance; it’ll start another cycle
of violence.”
any chance of rebuilding Wizarding Britain into a better country,” Hermione
said. “We can’t give in to the desire for vengeance; it’ll start another cycle
of violence.”
“Dumbledore’s message warned us about that too,” Ron added.
“We have more urgent problems to worry about, though,” Harry said. “Like
Sirius’s mission.”
Sirius’s mission.”
“And Greengrass and Davis’s,” Hermione added. “And I really need to research
that evaporator spell. But I don’t have the time to focus on that.”
that evaporator spell. But I don’t have the time to focus on that.”
“Did you ask the twins to help?” Ron asked. “They should be done with
rebuilding their shop.”
rebuilding their shop.”
Hermione blinked at him, then closed her eyes and grimaced.
“I’m so stupid!”
---
**London, Diagon Alley, April 3rd, 1997**
Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes had been rebuilt better than before, as the sign over
the window claimed, Harry Potter had to admit after entering the shop. The
main room was brighter, and it didn’t feel cramped any more either, with fewer
shelves and displays taking up floor space. And there was no rubber-chicken
hiding near the entrance trying to peck his face off as soon as he cleared the
Thief’s Downfall.
the window claimed, Harry Potter had to admit after entering the shop. The
main room was brighter, and it didn’t feel cramped any more either, with fewer
shelves and displays taking up floor space. And there was no rubber-chicken
hiding near the entrance trying to peck his face off as soon as he cleared the
Thief’s Downfall.
He kept an eye on the half a dozen customers browsing the wares, just in case,
as he made his way to the counter in the back.
as he made his way to the counter in the back.
“How may I… Harry!” Probably-George greeted him. “Haven’t seen you in a while!
Do you need a few items to prank our little brother? Or something to get back
at your godfather?”
Do you need a few items to prank our little brother? Or something to get back
at your godfather?”
Harry shook his head reflexively, then reconsidered, then decided against it.
“Not at the moment.” Once this bloody crisis was over, maybe. “I need to talk
to you in private.”
“Not at the moment.” Once this bloody crisis was over, maybe. “I need to talk
to you in private.”
“Ah.” Probably-George nodded at the door behind him, then tapped a bell on the
counter with his wand. “Let me call Clarice.”
counter with his wand. “Let me call Clarice.”
A minute later, a pretty young witch entered through a side door, adjusting
the colourful robes that the twins used as the staff’s uniform. Dumbledore
would have approved of the style, Harry thought. He also caught a glimpse of
jeans underneath, so she was probably a muggleborn.
the colourful robes that the twins used as the staff’s uniform. Dumbledore
would have approved of the style, Harry thought. He also caught a glimpse of
jeans underneath, so she was probably a muggleborn.
“Clarice, take over for a bit, Fred and I need to discuss business with our
partner,” George said, already opening the door. Harry smiled at the girl and
followed the wizard.
partner,” George said, already opening the door. Harry smiled at the girl and
followed the wizard.
The workroom hadn’t really changed, he noticed. It was still a mess of weird
items, cauldrons, jars and boxes, and a heap of what looked like the remains
of experiments. ‘Destructive testing’, Hermione had called it once.
items, cauldrons, jars and boxes, and a heap of what looked like the remains
of experiments. ‘Destructive testing’, Hermione had called it once.
“Fred! We’ve got a visitor!” George announced when his brother looked up from
the cauldron he was observing. “Important business,” he added.
the cauldron he was observing. “Important business,” he added.
Fred nodded, then sighed and vanished the contents of the cauldron. “Hi,
Harry!” he said, wiping his hands on his apron.
Harry!” he said, wiping his hands on his apron.
Harry winced. “You didn’t have to do that.”
Fred dismissed his concern with a wave of his hand. “Don’t worry, it wasn’t
anything important or expensive. Just a new flavour for our Skiving Snackbox
line.”
anything important or expensive. Just a new flavour for our Skiving Snackbox
line.”
“Ah.” That made him feel better.
“So,” George said, brushing away some clucking animated chickens miniatures
from the closest counter so he could sit on it, “What do you need?”
from the closest counter so he could sit on it, “What do you need?”
“If it’s about the money we owe you, don’t worry — Sirius’s compensated us in
full for the damages incurred in fighting the Dark Lord, and the added
publicity brought us more business as well,” Fred cut in before Harry could
say anything.
full for the damages incurred in fighting the Dark Lord, and the added
publicity brought us more business as well,” Fred cut in before Harry could
say anything.
“All the muggleborns shop here and not at Zonko’s anyway,” George added, “but
we got more pureblood customers too.”
we got more pureblood customers too.”
“Ah.” Harry nodded. “No, I’m here because of the current crisis.”
The twins grew serious at once. “What do you need?”
“Hermione discovered a recipe for a Rapid-Bone-Dissolving Potion,” Harry said,
looking around for a safe spot to sit down. The twins winced in unison, so he
quickly added: “It works by touch, and only on exposed bone. It’s meant to
deal with houngan conjurations.”
looking around for a safe spot to sit down. The twins winced in unison, so he
quickly added: “It works by touch, and only on exposed bone. It’s meant to
deal with houngan conjurations.”
“Ah. And she needs a lot of that brewed?” Fred asked.
“Yes. But even more importantly, she needs a way to aerosolise it, so it can
be used effectively in the field.”
be used effectively in the field.”
“Like Ron’s Evaporator,” Fred said, nodding.
“Exactly.”
“I think we can adapt our Sneezing Sparklers for that.” George was already
making notes on a piece of parchment he had grabbed from a veritable mound of
it. “We just need to tweak the spells so they produce a much finer spray.”
making notes on a piece of parchment he had grabbed from a veritable mound of
it. “We just need to tweak the spells so they produce a much finer spray.”
“A mist.” Fred had walked over and was now peering at George’s notes. “We need
to adjust the duration and spread too.”
to adjust the duration and spread too.”
George nodded, then looked up at Harry. “We can do it. You’ll have your ‘Bone
Busters’ in a week.”
Busters’ in a week.”
“We’ll have a better name then too.” Fred grinned. “He’s still hopeless at
naming things.”
naming things.”
Harry thought it was a pretty good name, and that if anyone shouldn’t be
allowed to name anything, it was Hermione, but he simply nodded. “Good. I hope
we won’t need them, but…” he trailed off, shrugging.
allowed to name anything, it was Hermione, but he simply nodded. “Good. I hope
we won’t need them, but…” he trailed off, shrugging.
“With Dumbledore gone, the houngans will stir up trouble again,” George said.
“They already did,” Fred corrected his brother.
Harry clenched his teeth — remembering that particular failure still stung. If
only he had been a bit quicker, a bit less stupid, he could have saved the
woman. Probably. He slowly let out his breath. “Here’s the recipe for the
potion,” he said, pulling out a roll of parchment from his enchanted pocket.
“Hermione said it’s harmless unless you pour it over bone, but she hasn’t
tested it extensively.”
only he had been a bit quicker, a bit less stupid, he could have saved the
woman. Probably. He slowly let out his breath. “Here’s the recipe for the
potion,” he said, pulling out a roll of parchment from his enchanted pocket.
“Hermione said it’s harmless unless you pour it over bone, but she hasn’t
tested it extensively.”
The twins perked up. “We should do that, then. Do you have some captured Death
Eaters available to serve as test subjects?” Fred asked.
Eaters available to serve as test subjects?” Fred asked.
He glared at them. He hoped they were just making tasteless jokes, and weren’t
fishing for information about the Cadwalladers. Or serious.
fishing for information about the Cadwalladers. Or serious.
George chuckled. “Just kidding. We use conjured animals for testing.”
“For the first stages, at least,” Fred added. “Since this won’t be a product
for the shop, we don’t need more than that.”
for the shop, we don’t need more than that.”
“Good.” Harry nodded.
“Speaking of Death Eaters… how are our two spying snakes doing?” George asked.
Fred scowled, Harry noticed. “They’ve been useful,” he said.
“I knew that already. I was wondering how they are handling the whole thing.”
“As far as I’m aware, they’re handling it well. The bigots do not seem to
suspect them.” Remus would have told them otherwise.
suspect them.” Remus would have told them otherwise.
“Why should they? The two fit right in among the Death Eaters,” Fred muttered.
This time George scowled at his brother. “I just want to know if we can trust
them.”
them.”
“We are trusting them,” Harry said. “Within reason, of course.”
Fred scoffed in response. George nodded. “Well, if that’s all, we should start
working on your order.”
working on your order.”
“Thank you,” Harry said.
“Anything for our partner, and war hero,” Fred said, though his cheer sounded
a bit forced to Harry, and George certainly didn’t look cheerful.
a bit forced to Harry, and George certainly didn’t look cheerful.
Harry wasn’t about to pry into their affairs, though. He had already too many
things to worry about.
things to worry about.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 3rd, 1997**
“I’m so stupid!” Hermione Granger said, shaking her head.
“No, you’re not.” Ron, sitting next to her on Sirius’s couch, sighed.
“I should have thought of the twins right away!” Potions were their
speciality, after all. They had reverse-engineered the Thief’s Downfall for
Dumbledore! She had been too arrogant, too short-sighted, too focused on
keeping their secrets, to see the obvious!
speciality, after all. They had reverse-engineered the Thief’s Downfall for
Dumbledore! She had been too arrogant, too short-sighted, too focused on
keeping their secrets, to see the obvious!
“We all should have. We didn’t.”
She jumped up, out of his embrace, and started to pace. “So much time lost!”
“A few days, at most.”
She whirled around to stare at him. “They could be crucial! We’re stretched
thin as it is.”
thin as it is.”
“They won’t be. We’ll manage. Nobody’s perfect.” He stood up and walked over
to her, wrapping her in his arms. “Relax. Blaming yourself for it won’t help
anyone. What’s done is done.”
to her, wrapping her in his arms. “Relax. Blaming yourself for it won’t help
anyone. What’s done is done.”
She hissed. “It shouldn’t have happened.”
He didn’t answer, simply started to rub her back.
Closing her eyes, she finally sighed. “There’s just so much we need to do.
Politics, reforms, recruiting, training, planning, plotting…” It had been
easier during the war. She had been focused on fighting the Death Eaters,
then.
Politics, reforms, recruiting, training, planning, plotting…” It had been
easier during the war. She had been focused on fighting the Death Eaters,
then.
“We don’t have to do everything.”
There was enough they had to, though. If only to keep it secret. If their
enemies were aware of their plans…
enemies were aware of their plans…
“You know, there are a lot of people we can trust. Family, for one. And
friends,” Ron whispered into her ear.
friends,” Ron whispered into her ear.
She took a deep breath. He was still rubbing her back. Holding her. She forced
herself to relax. It wasn’t as difficult as she had thought. “One traitor, one
prisoner, could ruin us.”
herself to relax. It wasn’t as difficult as she had thought. “One traitor, one
prisoner, could ruin us.”
“That could happen to us as well. You, me, Harry, Sirius, Remus…”
She didn’t want to consider that. But she couldn’t help it. “We all know
Occlumency. And there’s the contract for the Resistance.”
Occlumency. And there’s the contract for the Resistance.”
“Neither is foolproof.”
“But even so… the more people who know a secret, the greater the danger of it
being revealed.”
being revealed.”
“Better to risk exposure than failure.”
That was often one and the same, especially in politics. But she knew what he
meant. They hadn’t done as well as they could have, should have, lately.
meant. They hadn’t done as well as they could have, should have, lately.
And they needed to change that.
---
**Marseille, Quartier Magique, France, April 4th, 1997**
Sirius Black stood up and bowed right before Dubois reached his table.
“Isabelle,” he said with a wide smile, then grasped her hand to kiss it. She
was wearing red robes, daringly cut — slit up to the hip on both sides, and
with a neckline that plunged halfway to her navel. A ruby dangling from a gold
necklace accentuated her cleavage.
“Isabelle,” he said with a wide smile, then grasped her hand to kiss it. She
was wearing red robes, daringly cut — slit up to the hip on both sides, and
with a neckline that plunged halfway to her navel. A ruby dangling from a gold
necklace accentuated her cleavage.
“Bonsoir, Michael.” The French witch let her fingers trail over his hand for
just a second as she withdrew her own.
just a second as she withdrew her own.
He held her chair as she sat down, then resumed his own seat.
“How gallant of you,” she commented.
“I aim to please,” he responded. “And I wish to fit into your country.” Sirius
hoped he hadn’t overdone it — Anderson wouldn’t have had courtesy and manners
beaten into him as Sirius had, but he would have started to adapt by now.
hoped he hadn’t overdone it — Anderson wouldn’t have had courtesy and manners
beaten into him as Sirius had, but he would have started to adapt by now.
“Even if it means losing your American charm?”
He gave her his best roguish grin. “That won’t happen. It’ll just be refined —
seasoned, you might say.”
seasoned, you might say.”
Dubois laughed. It wasn’t her polite laugh, the kind with which she responded
to the usual clever word games, but a more honest-sounding one. “I can believe
that,” she said, reaching over the table to pat his hand. Once more she let
her fingers slide over his skin when she withdrew. “You’re refreshingly
different.”
to the usual clever word games, but a more honest-sounding one. “I can believe
that,” she said, reaching over the table to pat his hand. Once more she let
her fingers slide over his skin when she withdrew. “You’re refreshingly
different.”
“Compared to the French wizards?” he asked, then signalled the waiter with his
wand.
wand.
She nodded. “More open. More honest.”
He smiled — the unintentional irony helped with that. “You make it sound as if
French wizards routinely lie.”
French wizards routinely lie.”
“They do.” She laughed again, less honest, this time. “But so do we French
witches.”
witches.”
The waiter arrived and took their order. Sirius used the short break in
conversation to glance around. They were in the ‘Elysée’, the best restaurant
in the Quartier Magique. The safest, too. He spotted her bodyguard as well,
sitting alone at a table. She was good, and her disguise — Polyjuice, unless
he was mistaken — was almost perfect, but she was paying too much attention to
Sirius and Isabelle. Dubois. And after several such evenings, he was familiar
with her mannerisms, too — the way she fidgeted with her wand. It was an old
trick for keeping it ready to cast at a moment’s notice without appearing to
do so.
conversation to glance around. They were in the ‘Elysée’, the best restaurant
in the Quartier Magique. The safest, too. He spotted her bodyguard as well,
sitting alone at a table. She was good, and her disguise — Polyjuice, unless
he was mistaken — was almost perfect, but she was paying too much attention to
Sirius and Isabelle. Dubois. And after several such evenings, he was familiar
with her mannerisms, too — the way she fidgeted with her wand. It was an old
trick for keeping it ready to cast at a moment’s notice without appearing to
do so.
“Have you considered moving to France for good?” Dubois asked once the waiter
left their table.
left their table.
Sirius nodded. “Yes. Although finding a good home will take some time. A
wizard’s home has to meet the strictest standards, or his love life will
suffer,” he added with another grin.
wizard’s home has to meet the strictest standards, or his love life will
suffer,” he added with another grin.
“I can help you there.” Once more she held his hand.
“I know.” He patted hers with his free hand. “And I will certainly ask you for
advice — once I have found a suitable location.”
advice — once I have found a suitable location.”
“Are you looking for a spot that reminds you of your old home, or something
radically different?”
radically different?”
The waiter returned, and filled their glasses.
“Something new, but not too different. Those who cut off their roots wither
and die, but those who shy away from anything new do not fare any better in
the long run.”
and die, but those who shy away from anything new do not fare any better in
the long run.”
“A wise view. Moderation is not as valued as it should be.”
Was that a wistful tone in Isabelle’s voice? He wasn’t entirely certain. “My
home’s fate taught me to value it. Radicals destroyed it.”
home’s fate taught me to value it. Radicals destroyed it.”
“France has been spared that,” she said, smiling faintly.
“To France!” He raised his glass.
“To France.” Dubois followed his example.
It was an excellent vintage, as he had expected — he knew Isabelle well enough
by now. And judging by the way she kept touching him, he might end up knowing
her a bit too well later this evening.
by now. And judging by the way she kept touching him, he might end up knowing
her a bit too well later this evening.
---
“Welcome to my home,” Isabelle said two hours later as they stepped out of the
fireplace.
fireplace.
Sirius kept smiling, making the appropriate sounds while he looked around.
Behind him, the bodyguard arrived and quickly moved to the wall. He didn’t see
anyone else, but that didn’t mean anything. Not that he planned to attack
Dubois by himself in her own home.
Behind him, the bodyguard arrived and quickly moved to the wall. He didn’t see
anyone else, but that didn’t mean anything. Not that he planned to attack
Dubois by himself in her own home.
Dubois nodded at the witch. “We’ll be retiring for the evening.” The bodyguard
nodded in acknowledgement while she took Sirius’s arm. “My bedroom opens to
the south,” she whispered.
nodded in acknowledgement while she took Sirius’s arm. “My bedroom opens to
the south,” she whispered.
He tensed in response, although not — only — for the reasons she would expect.
He had hoped — while knowing it was unlikely — that it wouldn’t come to this.
Vivienne had told him she didn’t mind, but she had been lying.
He had hoped — while knowing it was unlikely — that it wouldn’t come to this.
Vivienne had told him she didn’t mind, but she had been lying.
But too much was at stake. He had to earn Dubois’s trust. So he smiled, and
walked with her, past the portraits of her ancestors. He had his arm wrapped
around her waist when they arrived at her bedroom, with her leaning against
him.
walked with her, past the portraits of her ancestors. He had his arm wrapped
around her waist when they arrived at her bedroom, with her leaning against
him.
Once they were inside, she stepped away from him. A flick of her wand closed
the door. Another made her robes drop to the floor.
the door. Another made her robes drop to the floor.
Sirius drew a hissing breath. She was beautiful. She wasn’t Vivienne. And he
was playing a role.
was playing a role.
He told himself that he was doing this for his family, and his love, while he
slipped out of his own robes.
slipped out of his own robes.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, April 4th, 1997**
*“… Stand up and fight! Fight for your family, for your country, for your very
lives!*
lives!*
*“This is the Pureblood Voice!”*
Bess Cox wasn’t the only one in Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips who was glaring at the
wireless receiver. In fact, the only one who wasn’t glaring or cursing was the
cook, as far as she could tell. And Randall, who was at most staring.
wireless receiver. In fact, the only one who wasn’t glaring or cursing was the
cook, as far as she could tell. And Randall, who was at most staring.
“Fuckin’ Death Eaters!” she said, loud enough to carry through the room.
Others nodded in agreement. “They should track down those bastards and kill
’em!” a burly wizard said.
’em!” a burly wizard said.
Randall spoke up at once. “The Resistance seems too busy playing at politics
to get anything done.”
to get anything done.”
“They caught some Death Eaters,” the other wizard protested.
“And handed them over to the Ministry!” A witch with dyed hair yelled. “So
they can be released again!”
they can be released again!”
“No, they disappeared,” the first wizard said.
“They were blown up, not disappeared.”
“That’s pureblood propaganda!”
Randall raised his voice again. “The Resistance Radio tells us to do nothing,
but the purebloods spread their lies unhindered. Doesn’t anyone else think
that that’s wrong?”
but the purebloods spread their lies unhindered. Doesn’t anyone else think
that that’s wrong?”
“They won the war!” the burly one all but yelled.
“And they’re losing the peace,” Bess said. “They should have kept fighting
until the Ministry was crushed.”
until the Ministry was crushed.”
The witch glared at her. “My boyfriend’s in the Ministry! He fought the Death
Eaters too! His father was cursed by the Dark Lord!”
Eaters too! His father was cursed by the Dark Lord!”
“You’ve got a pureblood boyfriend?” Bess asked before she could reconsider.
“Half-blood,” the witch spat. “Do you have a problem with that?”
Bess had a problem with that, and she was about to tell the witch so, when
Randall took her arm. “No, of course not,” he said. “We’re just sick of
waiting and doing nothing while the Resistance plays games with the Old
Families in the Wizengamot and the purebloods gather their forces again.”
Randall took her arm. “No, of course not,” he said. “We’re just sick of
waiting and doing nothing while the Resistance plays games with the Old
Families in the Wizengamot and the purebloods gather their forces again.”
A number of the other guests started to nod in agreement, but the dumb witch
just had to speak up again. “They’re not playing games. My boyfriend told me
that the Wizengamot’s about to come over to our side. Black just needs a few
more members to join him.”
just had to speak up again. “They’re not playing games. My boyfriend told me
that the Wizengamot’s about to come over to our side. Black just needs a few
more members to join him.”
“Your boyfriend says a lot, doesn’t he?” Bess shot back, ignoring Randall’s
grip on her arm.
grip on her arm.
“He also fought the Death Eaters at the Battle of the Ministry!” The stupid
witch glared at her. “As did the Resistance! What did you do during the war?”
witch glared at her. “As did the Resistance! What did you do during the war?”
Bess grit her teeth. She couldn’t tell the truth about her actions during the
war. She would have to be vague, but… the others were already nodding in
agreement with the witch.
war. She would have to be vague, but… the others were already nodding in
agreement with the witch.
“Besides, what could you do about the damn Pureblood Voice anyway? I don’t
know a thing about the wireless.” The burly wizard shrugged. “Let them handle
it, I say.”
know a thing about the wireless.” The burly wizard shrugged. “Let them handle
it, I say.”
Bess glanced at Randall, who was subtly shaking his head. This was not going
according to plan. Not at all. And Randall seemed to blame her.
according to plan. Not at all. And Randall seemed to blame her.
---
**West of Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, April 4th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood felt the urge to wipe the sweat from his brow. He wasn’t
actually sweating — his charms handled the humid heat of this wretched island
just fine, so he didn’t suffer from it — but after hours of hard work, he felt
as if he were.
actually sweating — his charms handled the humid heat of this wretched island
just fine, so he didn’t suffer from it — but after hours of hard work, he felt
as if he were.
And he wasn’t done. Not by a long way, yet. The wards of the mansion down in
the valley were old and twisted, and he had to work from a far greater
distance than was optimal. If he could have used a tunnel to get closer… but
the houngans would expect that, after the battle at Williams Manor, or
whatever the savages called it.
the valley were old and twisted, and he had to work from a far greater
distance than was optimal. If he could have used a tunnel to get closer… but
the houngans would expect that, after the battle at Williams Manor, or
whatever the savages called it.
Taking a deep breath, and a sip from his Ever-Filling Flask, he closed his
eyes for a moment. He could continue for another couple hours before he would
need to rest. A few more days until he could pass through the wards without
alerting anyone. Provided he found out just what the latest spell woven into
the mansion’s defenses actually did, of course.
eyes for a moment. He could continue for another couple hours before he would
need to rest. A few more days until he could pass through the wards without
alerting anyone. Provided he found out just what the latest spell woven into
the mansion’s defenses actually did, of course.
He snorted. Some of his former colleagues would love this. Analysing,
manipulating unknown spells was a popular task in the Department. Not as
dangerous as dealing with cursed artifacts, but as rewarding. Usually. Not as
rewarding as tomb raiding, of course.
manipulating unknown spells was a popular task in the Department. Not as
dangerous as dealing with cursed artifacts, but as rewarding. Usually. Not as
rewarding as tomb raiding, of course.
He chuckled. He hadn’t been allowed into that field. Croaker, the old bastard,
had denied all his requests. Had kept him stuck in Analysis. Merely out of
jealousy and spite, in Augustus’s opinion — if Croaker had suspected anything,
Augustus would have found himself dosed to the gills with Veritaserum in a
heartbeat. Not many knew just how efficient the Department was in policing its
members. Or hunting them down, if needed.
had denied all his requests. Had kept him stuck in Analysis. Merely out of
jealousy and spite, in Augustus’s opinion — if Croaker had suspected anything,
Augustus would have found himself dosed to the gills with Veritaserum in a
heartbeat. Not many knew just how efficient the Department was in policing its
members. Or hunting them down, if needed.
He was very fortunate that the Department would never co-operate with the
houngans, or he wouldn’t be able to stay for days at the same place without
being found by their spells.
houngans, or he wouldn’t be able to stay for days at the same place without
being found by their spells.
Chuckling, he resumed his work. He had wards to bend.
---
**Département du Var, north of Toulon, France, April 6th, 1997**
“You have found a location to build a house?” Isabelle — Dubois — sounded
happy. She looked happy as well, Sirius Black noticed, when she moved to hug
him. And kiss him.
happy. She looked happy as well, Sirius Black noticed, when she moved to hug
him. And kiss him.
“I have found a potential location,” he corrected her, after breaking the
kiss. “I’m not quite certain yet that it’s suitable, but it’s far from any
muggle settlements, and close to a beautiful little lake in the Massif
Central.”
kiss. “I’m not quite certain yet that it’s suitable, but it’s far from any
muggle settlements, and close to a beautiful little lake in the Massif
Central.”
“Oh?”
He smiled. “For a new house, I think the Côte d’Azur is a bit too exposed to
raiders from the Barbary Coast.”
raiders from the Barbary Coast.”
“Ah.” She nodded.
“I know that they prefer to raid Veela enclaves, but I do not think that
they’d pass on the opportunity to rob a manor with weaker wards.” Any new
wards would take a long time to grow powerful enough to deter such attacks.
“But as I said, I’m not yet set on the location.”
they’d pass on the opportunity to rob a manor with weaker wards.” Any new
wards would take a long time to grow powerful enough to deter such attacks.
“But as I said, I’m not yet set on the location.”
“You’re being cautious?” Her smile turned the question into gentle teasing.
“I’m quite forward when it comes to love, but I have found, to my regret, that
when it comes to building a home, one cannot be too cautious.” Sirius had no
trouble letting his smile slip a bit. Over the last two days, most of their
time together had been spent in bed. Vivienne…
when it comes to building a home, one cannot be too cautious.” Sirius had no
trouble letting his smile slip a bit. Over the last two days, most of their
time together had been spent in bed. Vivienne…
“I see. Hidden depths? Or layers?”
“Not as many as you, my love.” He bent down to kiss her again. He wasn’t lying
— the witch had proven to be both charming and witty. If not for her actions
and views on blood purity she would be a nice woman, even. But then, bigots
could and often were nice to those they liked.
— the witch had proven to be both charming and witty. If not for her actions
and views on blood purity she would be a nice woman, even. But then, bigots
could and often were nice to those they liked.
“So, when do I get to see it?”
He managed not to tense up. This could be the opportunity he had been waiting
for. He shrugged. “I’m planning to look for a few more locations. There’s no
need to bother checking it out if I’m likely to find another I like more.” He
couldn’t appear too eager to take her out of her wards.
for. He shrugged. “I’m planning to look for a few more locations. There’s no
need to bother checking it out if I’m likely to find another I like more.” He
couldn’t appear too eager to take her out of her wards.
“If I saw it, I might be able to point out more similar locations.”
He tilted his head to the side. “That’s a good argument, actually.”
She snorted and patted his cheek. “It won’t take us long either.”
“Hm.” He grinned. “We might take longer than expected. The weather is nice,
and the fields there looked… comfortable.”
and the fields there looked… comfortable.”
Her smile grew more mischievous. “I see.”
“Not yet.”
She laughed, and went to change into robes suitable for the trip.
---
“C’est magnifique!” Isabelle — Dubois, he reminded himself — exclaimed, upon
seeing the small mountain lake below them.
seeing the small mountain lake below them.
He nodded. “Clean air, no muggles nearby, and the view is… almost as beautiful
as you,” he added, slipping his arms around her waist from behind her. “A
modest manor, here… a boathouse below. Maybe a vineyard… though I think that
would need a lot of care at this altitude.”
as you,” he added, slipping his arms around her waist from behind her. “A
modest manor, here… a boathouse below. Maybe a vineyard… though I think that
would need a lot of care at this altitude.”
“It would. But it’s possible. I know a specialist for the spells you’d need.”
“Perfect!” he exclaimed, then nipped at her earlobe.
She giggled, and twisted in his arms until she was facing him. “You mentioned
the fields being comfortable…”
the fields being comfortable…”
He kissed her before answering. “Oh, yes. Let me demonstrate!” He drew his
wand and cast a Cushioning Charm on the ground behind him, then let himself
fall, dragging her down on top of him.
wand and cast a Cushioning Charm on the ground behind him, then let himself
fall, dragging her down on top of him.
Her bodyguard was about twenty yards away. If the grass were taller they’d be
hidden from view. As it was, Isabelle — Dubois — was blocking the witch’s view
of his wand arm. Sirius reached up to her face with his left hand, caressing
her cheek, then gently pulled her head towards him.
hidden from view. As it was, Isabelle — Dubois — was blocking the witch’s view
of his wand arm. Sirius reached up to her face with his left hand, caressing
her cheek, then gently pulled her head towards him.
And cast a silent Stunner point-blank at her, right before he activated his
Portkey.
Portkey.
---
**South Downs National Park, Hampshire, Britain, April 6th, 1997**
Daphne Greengrass forced herself to appear calm and collected as she entered
Malfoy’s home. It wouldn’t do for the whole plot to fail just as she and
Tracey were about to succeed in their mission. “Mister Malfoy.” She nodded
towards him.
Malfoy’s home. It wouldn’t do for the whole plot to fail just as she and
Tracey were about to succeed in their mission. “Mister Malfoy.” She nodded
towards him.
“Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis.” He bowed as usual, Daphne noted. “Thank you for
coming. Tea will be served in the salon.”
coming. Tea will be served in the salon.”
There were no other guests present, Daphne noted as a house-elf placed three
cups on the low table. Tracey was already seated, and looking over the
selection of snacks. Probably a way to deal with her own nervousness, Daphne
assumed. If all went well, then they would be done with the whole thing after
this. Done with the Resistance, too. Done with the damn war.
cups on the low table. Tracey was already seated, and looking over the
selection of snacks. Probably a way to deal with her own nervousness, Daphne
assumed. If all went well, then they would be done with the whole thing after
this. Done with the Resistance, too. Done with the damn war.
“I assume you have heard about the attack on Cadwallader,” Malfoy said once
their cups had been filled.
their cups had been filled.
“Yeah.” Tracey took a sip, then nodded in appreciation. “Terrible. The
mudbloods are showing their true colours.”
mudbloods are showing their true colours.”
“Exactly.” Malfoy smiled. “Though they haven’t found the bodies, yet.”
Daphne shrugged. “The whole building went up in fires so hot, everything was
turned to ash. Or so I heard,” she added, with a smirk. ‘Be vague’, the
werewolf had told them. As if she’d admit to anything to Malfoy!
turned to ash. Or so I heard,” she added, with a smirk. ‘Be vague’, the
werewolf had told them. As if she’d admit to anything to Malfoy!
“Rumours are running wild,” Tracey cut in. “But only the mudbloods know
exactly what happened. Maybe they used Fiendfyre, or some muggle concoction
that has a similar effect.”
exactly what happened. Maybe they used Fiendfyre, or some muggle concoction
that has a similar effect.”
Malfoy raised his eyebrows, but Daphne and her friend simply kept smiling.
“It’s a terrible tragedy, but maybe now the purebloods will realise just what
the mudbloods are planning,” she said.
“It’s a terrible tragedy, but maybe now the purebloods will realise just what
the mudbloods are planning,” she said.
“Indeed, they do. I have been talking to several of our ‘undecided’
colleagues, and they are coming around.” He was smiling now. “I almost feel as
if I should thank those mudbloods.”
colleagues, and they are coming around.” He was smiling now. “I almost feel as
if I should thank those mudbloods.”
Daphne forced herself to chuckle. “So, things are turning around, then?”
Malfoy’s smile vanished. “Not quite. Black’s coup has been delayed, but
between his gold, Potter’s fame and the threat Granger represents, they are
still going to win the struggle for control of the Wizengamot.”
between his gold, Potter’s fame and the threat Granger represents, they are
still going to win the struggle for control of the Wizengamot.”
Did he expect them to attack another Wizengamot member? Daphne frowned
slightly and said: “Maybe the mudbloods will launch another attack.”
slightly and said: “Maybe the mudbloods will launch another attack.”
The wizard nodded. “It would be ironic if they attacked the Wizengamot, and
managed to kill Black and his cohort by mistake.”
managed to kill Black and his cohort by mistake.”
Chapter 60: Coup de Grace
=========================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. He improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 60: Coup de Grace**
‘*In hindsight, many may wonder why, given how prevalent the use of the
Imperius Curse was during the the two Blood Wars, news of attacks by
muggleborns or purebloods still had such an impact on Wizarding Britain when
everyone had to be aware that false-flag operations were common on both sides.
In my opinion, this only proves how set in their ways all factions were; the
average wizard or witch didn’t much care about the truth, or reasonable doubt,
but instead filtered any news through their own prejudices and preconceptions
— an attitude which had been significantly helped along for decades by the
Ministry using the Daily Prophet and the Wizarding Wireless to influence the
masses. It should come as no surprise that this, too, contributed to the
enormous problems faced by Wizarding Britain at the end of the Second Blood
War.’*
Imperius Curse was during the the two Blood Wars, news of attacks by
muggleborns or purebloods still had such an impact on Wizarding Britain when
everyone had to be aware that false-flag operations were common on both sides.
In my opinion, this only proves how set in their ways all factions were; the
average wizard or witch didn’t much care about the truth, or reasonable doubt,
but instead filtered any news through their own prejudices and preconceptions
— an attitude which had been significantly helped along for decades by the
Ministry using the Daily Prophet and the Wizarding Wireless to influence the
masses. It should come as no surprise that this, too, contributed to the
enormous problems faced by Wizarding Britain at the end of the Second Blood
War.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 6th, 1997**
“Sirius!” Harry hugged Sirius Black, clearly happy to see him back.
“I’ve got the Veritaserum.” Hermione was more focused on the task at hand, but
she smiled at him as well.
she smiled at him as well.
“I’ll get her ready for interrogation,” Ron said, relieving him of the bound
and stunned Dubois.
and stunned Dubois.
And Vivienne was at his side, her arms around him. He was home.
He had every reason to be proud and happy. And yet… he was neither. What had
he done, really? Seduced a witch, gained her trust, then lured her into a
trap. He snorted. “How did things go with the Cadwalladers?” he asked Harry,
more to find something else to think about than because he wanted to know.
he done, really? Seduced a witch, gained her trust, then lured her into a
trap. He snorted. “How did things go with the Cadwalladers?” he asked Harry,
more to find something else to think about than because he wanted to know.
“It went smoothly. No one was hurt and the DMLE seems to be clueless so far,”
his godson said. “The pureblood propaganda is running wild with it, but we
were prepared for that. We don’t think it’ll sway many from our side.”
his godson said. “The pureblood propaganda is running wild with it, but we
were prepared for that. We don’t think it’ll sway many from our side.”
“Good to hear.”
“We also interrogated them. They weren’t Death Eaters, but they wanted the
muggleborns gone from Britain, and they didn’t much care how that would be
achieved,” Harry added.
muggleborns gone from Britain, and they didn’t much care how that would be
achieved,” Harry added.
Sirius didn’t have to force himself to smile after hearing that. “Good.”
“I’ll help Ron set up the interrogation,” Harry said. “We’ll start as soon as
you’re ready, alright?”
you’re ready, alright?”
Sirius nodded and his godson left for the basement. Or the dungeon, as his
family used to call it before his time. He sighed.
family used to call it before his time. He sighed.
“Don’t feel bad, chéri,” Vivienne whispered. “You did what you ’ad to, for
your family.”
your family.”
She had noticed his mood, of course. “I know, just… I feel dirty for seducing
her.” And for ambushing her, but he didn’t say that.
her.” And for ambushing her, but he didn’t say that.
“I can understand that,” she said, hugging him more tightly. “But she did
seduce a lot of men to gain power and influence. Even the Duc ’imself. It’s
fitting that she should be brought low by ’er own methods.”
seduce a lot of men to gain power and influence. Even the Duc ’imself. It’s
fitting that she should be brought low by ’er own methods.”
He nodded. “Do you think I should get myself checked at St Mungo’s?” he asked,
mostly as a joke.
mostly as a joke.
She seemed to take the question seriously, though, and wrinkled her nose for a
moment before nodding. “I think you should add a question about that to ’er
interrogation.”
moment before nodding. “I think you should add a question about that to ’er
interrogation.”
He chuckled, and she smiled. He was still feeling guilty, though, as they made
their way to the cellar.
their way to the cellar.
---
“Rennervate.”
Dubois woke up with a groan and blinked. “Quoi…” She gasped, tugging on the
bonds that tied her to the chair, and glanced down before looking up. When she
saw him sitting across from her, straddling a chair with his arms on the
backrest, she hissed. “You!”
bonds that tied her to the chair, and glanced down before looking up. When she
saw him sitting across from her, straddling a chair with his arms on the
backrest, she hissed. “You!”
He hadn’t heard more venom in a single word since his mother had learned about
his Sorting. “Yes, me.” He inclined his head. “Sirius Black.”
his Sorting. “Yes, me.” He inclined his head. “Sirius Black.”
She gasped again. Did she pale a little as well? He couldn’t tell.
“How? My guards check everyone for disguises!”
He shrugged. “It’s a muggle disguise.”
An expression of disgust appeared on her face, but was gone in an instant. “I
see.” After a moment, she raised her chin slightly. “The Duc will not let this
go.”
see.” After a moment, she raised her chin slightly. “The Duc will not let this
go.”
“He doesn’t even know that we have you.”
“He will soon find out.”
“By that time, it’ll be too late.” The Gendarmes would be investigating his
cover by now, but, even with their best efforts, it would hold for at least a
few days. Plenty of time to handle this affair.
cover by now, but, even with their best efforts, it would hold for at least a
few days. Plenty of time to handle this affair.
Her eyes widened briefly. She had remarkable self-control. “So you plan to
kill me.”
kill me.”
“Depending on the results of your interrogation, we plan to have you testify
against your ‘allies’ in Britain.” He shouldn’t be telling her this, but he
didn’t care. She deserved at least this much honesty after their… affair.
against your ‘allies’ in Britain.” He shouldn’t be telling her this, but he
didn’t care. She deserved at least this much honesty after their… affair.
“Kidnapping a member of the Court of France and parading her around in front
of your rabble… The Duc will go to war over this,” she hissed with a sneer.
of your rabble… The Duc will go to war over this,” she hissed with a sneer.
“I doubt that.”
Dubois whipped her head around when Vivienne stepped forward from behind the
captured witch. “You!”
captured witch. “You!”
The Veela snorted. “Did you forget that ’e’s my lover?” She stepped past the
witch and to his side, putting a hand on his shoulder. He reached up and
covered it with his.
witch and to his side, putting a hand on his shoulder. He reached up and
covered it with his.
“That explains it… another man led around by a half-breed siren.” Dubois
glared at her.
glared at her.
Vivienne scoffed. “Keep telling yourself that. You brought this upon yourself
when you decided to meddle in Britain’s politics.”
when you decided to meddle in Britain’s politics.”
“You and your family started this!”
“My family was attacked by the Dark Lord. We took our revenge, with the Duc’s
permission.”
permission.”
“Do you think I acted without his approval?” Dubois sneered. “He is well aware
of the risk the mudbloods pose for France. Haven’t you heard their broadcasts?
Read their leaflets? They will not stop at taking over Britain!”
of the risk the mudbloods pose for France. Haven’t you heard their broadcasts?
Read their leaflets? They will not stop at taking over Britain!”
She wasn’t wrong about that, Sirius thought. He was betting Galleons to Knuts
that Hermione had plans to do something about the muggleborns in other
countries — eventually.
that Hermione had plans to do something about the muggleborns in other
countries — eventually.
“I think the Duc will deny having had any knowledge of your actions, once you
are exposed,” Vivienne said.
are exposed,” Vivienne said.
Judging by her expression, Dubois thought the same.
Sirius spoke up. “Was that why you wanted to start another war in Britain? To
crush the muggleborns here?”
crush the muggleborns here?”
“Crush, weaken, keep them busy — the exact results don’t matter, as long as
the rot is kept from spreading.”
the rot is kept from spreading.”
“‘The rot’, huh?” He shook his head. “I guess you’re not really different from
the Death Eaters, then.”
the Death Eaters, then.”
“I’m simply doing what is best for my country.”
“What about the French muggleborns?” he asked.
She pressed her lips together and didn’t answer.
It was time for the Veritaserum.
---
“Did you plan to restart the civil war in Wizarding Britain?” Hermione asked.
“Yes.”
“Did you work with British wizards and witches towards that goal?”
“Yes.”
“Did you contact them or did they contact you?”
“I contacted them, after I heard they were looking for help.”
Under the effect of Veritaserum, Dubois’s voice sounded much less attractive.
She was answering in a dull tone, devoid of any emotion — so unlike the witch
Sirius had, if briefly, known. It made listening to the interrogation easier.
She was answering in a dull tone, devoid of any emotion — so unlike the witch
Sirius had, if briefly, known. It made listening to the interrogation easier.
“Who did you contact?” Hermione’s voice lacked emotion as well, he noticed.
“Augustus Malfoy and Theodore Nott.”
Sirius hissed through teeth clenched in a feral grin. They had the bastard
now!
now!
“Were they working together?”
“No.”
“Did you work with both?”
“Yes.”
“Did Malfoy know that?”
“Yes.”
“Did Nott know that?”
“No.”
Nott had been a useful idiot, then, Sirius thought.
The rest of the interrogation went as expected, with Hermione asking question
after question while her Dictaquill wrote down the answers on an Endless
Scroll.
after question while her Dictaquill wrote down the answers on an Endless
Scroll.
Dubois had been acting on her own, technically, but it was clear that the Duc
had been aware of her plans. She had supported Nott with potions, gold and
directions, including when and how to attack — apparently, she didn’t know who
had attacked the first muggleborn rally in February, but they had already
known that from Nott’s memories. Dubois hadn’t been working with Beaumont
either, though she suspected the Duc had been directing the other witch in
response to her efforts.
had been aware of her plans. She had supported Nott with potions, gold and
directions, including when and how to attack — apparently, she didn’t know who
had attacked the first muggleborn rally in February, but they had already
known that from Nott’s memories. Dubois hadn’t been working with Beaumont
either, though she suspected the Duc had been directing the other witch in
response to her efforts.
But most importantly, they knew Malfoy was planning to restart the war, and
had been promised support from France. Enough for a long war that would
exhaust all factions, until Magical Europe could step in and take control of
the remnants of Britain. Malfoy, of course, hadn’t been informed of that.
had been promised support from France. Enough for a long war that would
exhaust all factions, until Magical Europe could step in and take control of
the remnants of Britain. Malfoy, of course, hadn’t been informed of that.
And all because Dubois and her allies feared a French muggleborn revolution.
Or a second Grindelwald. He shook his head. Fools. Bigoted fools. They were
reaping what they had sown. Or would be.
Or a second Grindelwald. He shook his head. Fools. Bigoted fools. They were
reaping what they had sown. Or would be.
“Did your plans involve other countries as well? Prussia?”
“No.”
Hermione was still interrogating the witch, even though she hadn’t heard
anything more than speculation and negative answers for the last five minutes.
Well, they had confirmation that Dubois hadn’t had any contact with
muggleborns. Sirius cleared his throat. “I think we’re done now.”
anything more than speculation and negative answers for the last five minutes.
Well, they had confirmation that Dubois hadn’t had any contact with
muggleborns. Sirius cleared his throat. “I think we’re done now.”
“One more question,” Hermione said. She didn’t wait for his answer, and turned
her attention back to the French witch. “What are you planning to do about the
French muggleborns?”
her attention back to the French witch. “What are you planning to do about the
French muggleborns?”
Dubois told them.
Sirius didn’t feel guilty for deceiving her any more. He felt dirty, though.
---
“The French are planning to preemptively kill ‘the most dangerous’ of their
muggleborns.” Hermione was pacing in Sirius’s living room, angrier than he had
ever seen her. Or that he remembered.
muggleborns.” Hermione was pacing in Sirius’s living room, angrier than he had
ever seen her. Or that he remembered.
“Not the French. Dubois and ’er allies.” Vivienne, sitting on the armrest of
Sirius’s seat, barely flinched when Hermione turned to glare at her. Sirius
had known his lover was brave, but this proved it. He could feel her tense,
though.
Sirius’s seat, barely flinched when Hermione turned to glare at her. Sirius
had known his lover was brave, but this proved it. He could feel her tense,
though.
“With the approval of the Duc,” the muggleborn witch snarled. Sirius saw Ron
purse his lips, then stand up and join her.
purse his lips, then stand up and join her.
“She only thinks that she ’as ’is approval. The Duc wouldn’t condone this,”
Vivienne retorted.
Vivienne retorted.
“He condones her actions in Britain,” Harry cut in while Ron put his hand on
Hermione’s shoulder.
Hermione’s shoulder.
“That’s not the same as murdering ’is own subjects.” Vivienne shook her head.
“’E knows what that would lead to — the revolution Dubois and others fear.”
“’E knows what that would lead to — the revolution Dubois and others fear.”
“Dubois should know that as well,” Harry said.
“She wants to preserve her country, her world from changing,” Sirius cut in,
patting Vivienne’s hand. “But she doesn’t see, or rather, she doesn’t want to
see, that France needs to change to prevent a revolution in the not-so-distant
future.” He didn’t mention that, in his opinion, the threat of revealing such
plans to the public would convince the Duc to condemn them even if the French
ruler had no problem with such murders. Which Sirius didn’t doubt.
patting Vivienne’s hand. “But she doesn’t see, or rather, she doesn’t want to
see, that France needs to change to prevent a revolution in the not-so-distant
future.” He didn’t mention that, in his opinion, the threat of revealing such
plans to the public would convince the Duc to condemn them even if the French
ruler had no problem with such murders. Which Sirius didn’t doubt.
“Causing what you fear by the very actions you are taking to prevent it.”
Hermione snorted. “That’s straight out of a classical tragedy.”
Hermione snorted. “That’s straight out of a classical tragedy.”
“Or comedy,” added Sirius, ‘depending on whose side you are.’ That earned him
glares from everyone. He would have added another tasteless quip, to uphold
his facade, if not for Vivienne’s look. He sighed instead and said: “If this
information is revealed, there will be a revolution in France.”
glares from everyone. He would have added another tasteless quip, to uphold
his facade, if not for Vivienne’s look. He sighed instead and said: “If this
information is revealed, there will be a revolution in France.”
“Another,” Hermione said. He frowned — no one called Grindelwald’s War a
revolution, but he guessed it could be seen as one. The witch was already
continuing: “But it will not be successful, not if launched without any
preparation, or any support from the establishment. It will be a bloody
massacre, and the French muggleborn will drag us into it while we’re still
dealing with the aftermath of our own war.”
revolution, but he guessed it could be seen as one. The witch was already
continuing: “But it will not be successful, not if launched without any
preparation, or any support from the establishment. It will be a bloody
massacre, and the French muggleborn will drag us into it while we’re still
dealing with the aftermath of our own war.”
“Which means we can’t make this public,” Harry cut to the conclusion.
Vivienne spoke up. “The Duc must know about this! And ’e must know that we
know.” Sirius smiled proudly. Brave and cunning.
know.” Sirius smiled proudly. Brave and cunning.
“I think a public trial for Malfoy and his accomplices will be enough to
discredit their faction and we can do that without revealing Dubois,” Sirius
suggested. “We’ll have to deal with her ourselves, though — handing her over
to the Ministry would pretty much cause all the problems we want to avoid.”
The obvious solution was clear to him, of course. And he could see Hermione
understood it as well.
discredit their faction and we can do that without revealing Dubois,” Sirius
suggested. “We’ll have to deal with her ourselves, though — handing her over
to the Ministry would pretty much cause all the problems we want to avoid.”
The obvious solution was clear to him, of course. And he could see Hermione
understood it as well.
“Give ’er to my family! If she disappears, ’er friends will use that to ’urt
my family. Once we ’ave Malfoy arrested they’ll know that it was us. And she
needs to be alive to… influence the Duc so ’e’ll put a stop to this madness.
Afterwards… She is a proud witch. Realising that she will not be able to take
revenge might very well push ’er to take ’er own life to escape the shame and
’umiliation. That will solve all those problems,” Vivienne said with a feral
smile.
my family. Once we ’ave Malfoy arrested they’ll know that it was us. And she
needs to be alive to… influence the Duc so ’e’ll put a stop to this madness.
Afterwards… She is a proud witch. Realising that she will not be able to take
revenge might very well push ’er to take ’er own life to escape the shame and
’umiliation. That will solve all those problems,” Vivienne said with a feral
smile.
Brave, cunning, and cruel, Sirius thought. She could have been born a Black.
---
**South Downs National Park, Hampshire, Britain, April 6th, 1997**
“The Ministry’s security measures are not perfect — I’m telling you this in
the strictest confidence, of course; it would be a catastrophe if any violent
mudblood were to learn of this!” Malfoy was leaning forward and had lowered
his voice.
the strictest confidence, of course; it would be a catastrophe if any violent
mudblood were to learn of this!” Malfoy was leaning forward and had lowered
his voice.
Daphne Greengrass hated the man’s theatrics, but she couldn’t help following
his example and leaning forward as well. “I thought the wards and other
protective measures were redone after the Battle of the Ministry.”
his example and leaning forward as well. “I thought the wards and other
protective measures were redone after the Battle of the Ministry.”
“They were, but — as with so much else after that tragic day — the wizards
tasked with restoring the defences rushed their work… to its detriment.”
tasked with restoring the defences rushed their work… to its detriment.”
“One would expect that they would at least have taken care to guard against
bombs, though.” Tracey narrowed her eyes at the wizard. “Those are the most
common mudblood weapon.”
bombs, though.” Tracey narrowed her eyes at the wizard. “Those are the most
common mudblood weapon.”
“They did — to a point. The danger of Imperiused attackers is greatly reduced
by the Thief’s Downfall installed in the Atrium and at the entrance to the
Wizengamot’s floor, and any blast of sufficient power to break through the
defences would do so much damage that the Ministry would be exposed to
muggles, which the Obliviators would prevent since it endangered them as well.
But if a mudblood managed to sneak a bomb into the Wizengamot Chamber…”
by the Thief’s Downfall installed in the Atrium and at the entrance to the
Wizengamot’s floor, and any blast of sufficient power to break through the
defences would do so much damage that the Ministry would be exposed to
muggles, which the Obliviators would prevent since it endangered them as well.
But if a mudblood managed to sneak a bomb into the Wizengamot Chamber…”
Daphne snorted. “The only mudblood allowed access to the chamber is Granger,
and I doubt that she’d do that.”
and I doubt that she’d do that.”
“And said hypothetical mudblood would have to sacrifice their own life to
ensure that the bomb goes off,” Tracey added.
ensure that the bomb goes off,” Tracey added.
Daphne nodded — Malfoy couldn’t expect them to commit suicide to achieve his
goals, could he? There were few people allowed to enter the chamber, other
than the members themselves.
goals, could he? There were few people allowed to enter the chamber, other
than the members themselves.
The wizard frowned. “But the muggles are able to use their bombs from a
distance — or have them explode after a certain time has passed.”
distance — or have them explode after a certain time has passed.”
Daphne nodded.
“They can’t detonate a bomb from a distance through wards,” Tracey said. “So
I’ve heard.”
I’ve heard.”
“But a timer would be possible. If the hypothetical mudblood could gain access
to the chamber, set the bomb, timed for the start of the session, and then
leave…” Malfoy spread his hands.
to the chamber, set the bomb, timed for the start of the session, and then
leave…” Malfoy spread his hands.
“There is still the issue of the sheer volume of the hypothetical bomb needed
for such a task,” Daphne said. Though given what she had seen at the
Cadwalladers’, if combined with a Gemino Curse, even a small amount of muggle
explosive could be rapidly expanded, and the force of the explosion… It was
possible, she realised.
for such a task,” Daphne said. Though given what she had seen at the
Cadwalladers’, if combined with a Gemino Curse, even a small amount of muggle
explosive could be rapidly expanded, and the force of the explosion… It was
possible, she realised.
“Such a bomb would kill everyone inside the Wizengamot. And anyone lucky
enough to be late would be under suspicion of being behind the attack, no
matter who did it,” Tracey said. “And if all his opponents are missing, Black
might suspect a trap and leave.”
enough to be late would be under suspicion of being behind the attack, no
matter who did it,” Tracey said. “And if all his opponents are missing, Black
might suspect a trap and leave.”
“Indeed. Although the mudbloods might attack the more prominent opponents of
Black in their homes at the same time as well, to ensure their deaths. That
would, of course, explain the survivors being late.”
Black in their homes at the same time as well, to ensure their deaths. That
would, of course, explain the survivors being late.”
Daphne’s eyes widened. Did Malfoy actually plan to sacrifice most of his
allies? That would cover his tracks — if the mudbloods were blamed for it. And
the heirs of the dead members would certainly be ill-disposed towards the
mudbloods. That had been the case after Malfoy Manor as well. She felt the
pain of losing her parents again, then forced herself to consider the issue.
Yes, she decided, Malfoy would sacrifice them all. It would leave him with a
Wizengamot full of inexperienced members, easily manipulated while they were
grieving. She slowly nodded, hoping that her face didn’t betray her shock at
the realisation. “Indeed, that would throw a wrench in the mudbloods’ plans.”
allies? That would cover his tracks — if the mudbloods were blamed for it. And
the heirs of the dead members would certainly be ill-disposed towards the
mudbloods. That had been the case after Malfoy Manor as well. She felt the
pain of losing her parents again, then forced herself to consider the issue.
Yes, she decided, Malfoy would sacrifice them all. It would leave him with a
Wizengamot full of inexperienced members, easily manipulated while they were
grieving. She slowly nodded, hoping that her face didn’t betray her shock at
the realisation. “Indeed, that would throw a wrench in the mudbloods’ plans.”
Tracey nodded. She didn’t say anything, though, for which Daphne was glad. Her
friend’s temper could betray them both.
friend’s temper could betray them both.
“Provided, of course,” Malfoy said, “that the mudbloods could find a way to
sneak such a bomb into the Wizengamot Chamber.”
sneak such a bomb into the Wizengamot Chamber.”
“That… might be possible,” Daphne said. She saw Tracey stifle a gasp and
glance at her, but she focused on Malfoy. “But whoever did this would need
some time to prepare.”
glance at her, but she focused on Malfoy. “But whoever did this would need
some time to prepare.”
“Of course. But in the meantime, the mudbloods and their blood traitor allies
encroach even more on the very heart of Britain. The window of opportunity for
such a blunder by them is shrinking.” Malfoy sighed, almost theatrically.
encroach even more on the very heart of Britain. The window of opportunity for
such a blunder by them is shrinking.” Malfoy sighed, almost theatrically.
“We can but hope that we will be as fortunate as we were with the
Cadwalladers,” Daphne replied.
Cadwalladers,” Daphne replied.
---
On the way to the fireplace of Malfoy Manor, Daphne made idle conversation
while her thoughts raced. They could do this, she knew. They could avenge her
and Tracey’s parents. They could kill all the blood traitors in the
Wizengamot. If they could blame the mudbloods for the attack it would even
work out — between the blood traitor’s heirs blaming the mudbloods, and the
mudbloods blaming each other, Malfoy could take control of the Wizengamot and
the Ministry. With the Resistance and the Order leaderless, the Ministry had a
decent chance of winning the war, too. And even if that didn’t work out… the
country would be so weakened by all the chaos, she and Astoria, and Tracey,
would be able to disappear from Britain without risking being sent back by
another country to placate the Ministry.
while her thoughts raced. They could do this, she knew. They could avenge her
and Tracey’s parents. They could kill all the blood traitors in the
Wizengamot. If they could blame the mudbloods for the attack it would even
work out — between the blood traitor’s heirs blaming the mudbloods, and the
mudbloods blaming each other, Malfoy could take control of the Wizengamot and
the Ministry. With the Resistance and the Order leaderless, the Ministry had a
decent chance of winning the war, too. And even if that didn’t work out… the
country would be so weakened by all the chaos, she and Astoria, and Tracey,
would be able to disappear from Britain without risking being sent back by
another country to placate the Ministry.
She clenched her teeth as she stepped up to the fireplace. She could avenge
her family and — possibly — prevent the mudbloods’ takeover of Britain. She
could be free of Black, too. Safe.
her family and — possibly — prevent the mudbloods’ takeover of Britain. She
could be free of Black, too. Safe.
And all she had to do was to kill dozens of people, and plunge Britain into
another war.
another war.
She glanced at Tracey, but she couldn’t tell what her friend was thinking.
She could do it. Show them all. Kill Black, Granger, Potter and Weasley.
People who had ruined her life. Murdered her parents and friends.
People who had ruined her life. Murdered her parents and friends.
As long as she was willing to risk it all as well. And see countless more
people die in another war.
people die in another war.
They reached the fireplace. If she wanted to do this, she needed to talk to
Tracey before they reached her home, where the werewolf was waiting. If they
were to do this, they needed to work together and plan ahead. They couldn’t
head straight back to her home.
Tracey before they reached her home, where the werewolf was waiting. If they
were to do this, they needed to work together and plan ahead. They couldn’t
head straight back to her home.
If she wanted to do this.
She grabbed a handful of Floo powder.
Did she want to do this?
She hesitated, just for a second, long enough for Tracey to glance at her,
then threw the powder into the fire.
then threw the powder into the fire.
“Greengrass Manor.”
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 7th, 1997**
Amelia Bones didn’t want to see Sirius Black. The wizard flouted any law that
might hinder him and openly scorned the Ministry. But he was also the most
influential member of the Wizengamot — Doge was but a figurehead — and he
wouldn’t falsely claim that he had important information just to rile her up.
Amelia herself would certainly never neglect her duty and play power games for
petty reasons. Even though she hated that, once again, the Ministry was being
sidelined or blindsided.
might hinder him and openly scorned the Ministry. But he was also the most
influential member of the Wizengamot — Doge was but a figurehead — and he
wouldn’t falsely claim that he had important information just to rile her up.
Amelia herself would certainly never neglect her duty and play power games for
petty reasons. Even though she hated that, once again, the Ministry was being
sidelined or blindsided.
But that he was bringing Granger with him… She clenched her teeth and forced
herself to calm down so she wouldn’t lose her temper when facing the
mass-murdering muggleborn.
herself to calm down so she wouldn’t lose her temper when facing the
mass-murdering muggleborn.
“Good morning, Sirius,” she said with the barest hint of a nod when he entered
his office. “Miss Granger.”
his office. “Miss Granger.”
Black simply nodded back at her. Granger didn’t show any reaction to Amelia
not addressing her as ‘Madam Granger’, as befitted a member of the Wizengamot.
Even if the girl had failed her Wizarding Customs O.W.L. exam, she would be
aware of that.
not addressing her as ‘Madam Granger’, as befitted a member of the Wizengamot.
Even if the girl had failed her Wizarding Customs O.W.L. exam, she would be
aware of that.
“Sirius.” Pius, of course, was all too courteous. “Madam Granger.” He even
bowed to the girl — could he be more obvious in his attempts to curry favour?
bowed to the girl — could he be more obvious in his attempts to curry favour?
“Mister Thicknesse.”
“What brings you to my office this early in the morning?” Amelia said as soon
as the two visitors had sat down.
as the two visitors had sat down.
Black leaned forward, grinning widely but without any humour that she could
detect. “Proof that Augustus Malfoy is conspiring with foreign purebloods and
plans to murder the entire Wizengamot.”
detect. “Proof that Augustus Malfoy is conspiring with foreign purebloods and
plans to murder the entire Wizengamot.”
Amelia froze, hissing through suddenly clenched teeth. Even Pius seemed
shocked. “What did you do?”
shocked. “What did you do?”
Black chuckled. “We’ve been investigating Malfoy for some time. Last night we
finally found proof that he wants to blow up the Wizengamot — with him absent,
of course — and frame the muggleborns for it.”
finally found proof that he wants to blow up the Wizengamot — with him absent,
of course — and frame the muggleborns for it.”
“What kind of proof do you have?” Amelia asked. They hadn’t heard anything
about this from the Ministry’s spy. Had Black gone so far as to kidnap Malfoy?
A glance told her that Pius didn’t know anything more either.
about this from the Ministry’s spy. Had Black gone so far as to kidnap Malfoy?
A glance told her that Pius didn’t know anything more either.
“Testimonies. Observations. Enough to arrest him, and his co-conspirators and
interrogate them with Veritaserum.” Black leaned back, looking far too smug
for Amelia’s taste. If this was true, then this affair was far too serious for
his attitude.
interrogate them with Veritaserum.” Black leaned back, looking far too smug
for Amelia’s taste. If this was true, then this affair was far too serious for
his attitude.
She set her jaw. “I’m not about to arrest a member of the Wizengamot on the
say so of his chief political rival.”
say so of his chief political rival.”
“I would never expect you to, of course.” Black was still grinning.
Granger reached inside her robes and pulled out three vials. “Here are the
memories of Malfoy planning his attack, as well as the memory of him ordering
the attack on the Cadwalladers. They are alive and well,” she added with a
grin that showed too many teeth.
memories of Malfoy planning his attack, as well as the memory of him ordering
the attack on the Cadwalladers. They are alive and well,” she added with a
grin that showed too many teeth.
“So you were the ones who attacked them,” Amelia said. And they had lied about
it.
it.
Black shrugged. “It was needed to gain Malfoy’s trust. No one died.”
He hadn’t said that the Cadwalladers had been working with them, Amelia noted.
Which told her enough. “You kidnapped them.”
Which told her enough. “You kidnapped them.”
Black’s grin widened. “A necessary ruse. Without it, we wouldn’t have been
able to find out about Malfoy’s plans for the Wizengamot.”
able to find out about Malfoy’s plans for the Wizengamot.”
“I’m certain that even your political enemies will understand the necessity of
this course of action,” Pius said.
this course of action,” Pius said.
Amelia briefly glared at him. She knew as well as Pius that the Wizengamot
would never condemn Black, not after he just saved all of their lives. If his
claims were true. Which, she knew, they almost certainly were. But who… she
narrowed her eyes. Of course. “Greengrass or Davis, or both, are working for
you.”
would never condemn Black, not after he just saved all of their lives. If his
claims were true. Which, she knew, they almost certainly were. But who… she
narrowed her eyes. Of course. “Greengrass or Davis, or both, are working for
you.”
Black chuckled. “Right on the mark, Amelia.”
“Some might suspect entrapment.” Not that too many Wizengamot members would
care about the legal details in a case like this.
care about the legal details in a case like this.
“The testimonies and his interrogation will show that he was the one to
instigate everything. All that the two snakes did was accept his invitations
and proposals.” Black spread his hands.
instigate everything. All that the two snakes did was accept his invitations
and proposals.” Black spread his hands.
“We need to plan his arrest carefully,” Pius said.
“Their arrest,” Granger cut in. “Everyone who attended those clandestine
meetings has to be arrested at the same time, or they will escape. They might
not all be privy to his plans, certainly not those who would have died with
the rest of us should he have succeeded, but they certainly were willing to
resort to criminal acts to take control of Wizarding Britain.”
meetings has to be arrested at the same time, or they will escape. They might
not all be privy to his plans, certainly not those who would have died with
the rest of us should he have succeeded, but they certainly were willing to
resort to criminal acts to take control of Wizarding Britain.”
Amelia clenched her teeth. To hear the girl condemn others for the same crimes
she and Black had committed…
she and Black had committed…
“Of course,” Pius agreed, as if he weren’t aware of the hypocrisy of Granger’s
statement. She glared at him, but he ignored her.
statement. She glared at him, but he ignored her.
“He might have traitors among the Aurors as well,” Granger continued. “And
among the Ministry’s staff. The Resistance will be ready to intervene, should
they attempt a coup. As we did before.”
among the Ministry’s staff. The Resistance will be ready to intervene, should
they attempt a coup. As we did before.”
“We have enough trusted Aurors and Hit-Wizards to manage,” Amelia spat.
“You better be dead certain of their loyalty.” Black was staring at her.
She bristled at the implication. The Ministry hadn’t fallen so low as to need
help from Black and Granger to arrest a bunch of traitors.
help from Black and Granger to arrest a bunch of traitors.
Once more, Pius stepped in. “I believe I know who we can trust in this
matter.” His smile turned what should have been a rebuke into a conciliatory
remark.
matter.” His smile turned what should have been a rebuke into a conciliatory
remark.
She controlled herself with some effort. “We’ll watch the memories. Depending
on the results, we’ll arrest him before today’s session.”
on the results, we’ll arrest him before today’s session.”
She wouldn’t let anyone, not even herself, keep her from doing her duty.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 7th, 1997**
“You know, I think this is the first time we’re not going to be early for a
session,” Harry Potter said as he and his friends stepped out of the fireplace
in the Ministry’s Atrium and through the Thief’s Downfall set up there.
session,” Harry Potter said as he and his friends stepped out of the fireplace
in the Ministry’s Atrium and through the Thief’s Downfall set up there.
Ron chuckled. “And the first time Hermione’s not nagging us about being late.”
The witch in question huffed, but didn’t comment. She huffed again when Ron
reached over and ruffled her hair, but didn’t pull away, Harry noticed. He was
glad for the distraction — after Remus had told them about Malfoy’s plan,
Hermione had confirmed that it would be possible, in her opinion. Harry had
worried about the possibility of Malfoy going ahead without Greengrass and
Davis’s help ever since. He couldn’t, and shouldn’t, personally check every
nook and cranny in the Ministry, not without tipping Malfoy off about the fact
that they knew about his plans, but he couldn’t help glancing around, worrying
about possible ambushes.
reached over and ruffled her hair, but didn’t pull away, Harry noticed. He was
glad for the distraction — after Remus had told them about Malfoy’s plan,
Hermione had confirmed that it would be possible, in her opinion. Harry had
worried about the possibility of Malfoy going ahead without Greengrass and
Davis’s help ever since. He couldn’t, and shouldn’t, personally check every
nook and cranny in the Ministry, not without tipping Malfoy off about the fact
that they knew about his plans, but he couldn’t help glancing around, worrying
about possible ambushes.
The Ministry was still full of purebloods, and while there couldn’t be many of
Voldemort’s supporters left after the Battle of the Ministry and the following
purge, there were bound to be a few. And Malfoy’s propaganda might have turned
a few more Ministry employees, especially among those who had been active in
the hunt for the Muggleborn Resistance during the war.
Voldemort’s supporters left after the Battle of the Ministry and the following
purge, there were bound to be a few. And Malfoy’s propaganda might have turned
a few more Ministry employees, especially among those who had been active in
the hunt for the Muggleborn Resistance during the war.
Thicknesse had said that they could trust the Auror and Hit-Wizard guards on
shift today, and they were not planning to let Malfoy get close to the
Wizengamot Chamber, but… He shook his head.
shift today, and they were not planning to let Malfoy get close to the
Wizengamot Chamber, but… He shook his head.
“Smile, Harry,” Sirius whispered, “we don’t want people to suspect anything,
do we?”
do we?”
His godfather had cast a privacy spell beforehand, but Harry still glared at
him. If Thicknesse was a traitor, then this would be the perfect opportunity
to get rid of not just the leaders of the Order and the Resistance, but also
of the Aurors most supportive of them. Tonks had messaged them that Thicknesse
had passed through the Thief’s Downfall, which ruled out Polyjuice, but what
if Bones wanted to betray them? Or if Dawlish was a traitor? Or someone else,
someone also able to prepare an ambush without any guards noticing? Or if
anyone had managed to sabotage the Thief’s Downfall? Harry really didn’t trust
anyone in the Ministry, other than Tonks, Arthur and Percy. And all three
would also be present for the occasion.
him. If Thicknesse was a traitor, then this would be the perfect opportunity
to get rid of not just the leaders of the Order and the Resistance, but also
of the Aurors most supportive of them. Tonks had messaged them that Thicknesse
had passed through the Thief’s Downfall, which ruled out Polyjuice, but what
if Bones wanted to betray them? Or if Dawlish was a traitor? Or someone else,
someone also able to prepare an ambush without any guards noticing? Or if
anyone had managed to sabotage the Thief’s Downfall? Harry really didn’t trust
anyone in the Ministry, other than Tonks, Arthur and Percy. And all three
would also be present for the occasion.
When the fireplace flared up behind them, he glanced over his shoulder, his
wand in hand, but it was just a clerk.
wand in hand, but it was just a clerk.
At least there were a few members of the Resistance present — Harry saw Tania
and Seamus acting as if they were studying the fountain and flirting with each
other — and the rest of them were ready to storm the Ministry, but if there
was an ambush they’d take some time to arrive through the lift shaft. Although
the threat of swift vengeance might serve to keep Bones and Thicknesse honest.
But even that was no guarantee.
and Seamus acting as if they were studying the fountain and flirting with each
other — and the rest of them were ready to storm the Ministry, but if there
was an ambush they’d take some time to arrive through the lift shaft. Although
the threat of swift vengeance might serve to keep Bones and Thicknesse honest.
But even that was no guarantee.
Or, Harry thought, Moody’s lessons might have been a bit too good.
“Looks clear,” Hermione whispered, looking as if she was talking about the
bills to be discussed this session while she twirled her wand in her hand.
bills to be discussed this session while she twirled her wand in her hand.
“Haven’t noticed anything either,” Ron said, glancing at the lift on the other
side of the Atrium. Tonks was walking towards them, smiling, though she looked
quite tense.
side of the Atrium. Tonks was walking towards them, smiling, though she looked
quite tense.
“Hey there!” She waved, as if she was meeting them by chance.
“Nymphadora!” Sirius exclaimed. ‘How is my favourite cousin doing?’ He ignored
her scowl and muttered “Tonks!” while he recast his privacy spell to include
her.
her scowl and muttered “Tonks!” while he recast his privacy spell to include
her.
“Everything’s ready,” she said, her tone not matching the glare she aimed at
Sirius. “Runcorn’s already inside the chamber. He’ll be arrested there.”
Sirius. “Runcorn’s already inside the chamber. He’ll be arrested there.”
Sirius was, as usual, utterly unimpressed by any expression of disapproval not
accompanied by at least hexes. “Ah! Please ask your mother for a memory of
that so I can watch and enjoy it later.”
accompanied by at least hexes. “Ah! Please ask your mother for a memory of
that so I can watch and enjoy it later.”
The fireplace flared up again, but it wasn’t Malfoy, just a few more members
of the Wizengamot Harry didn’t know by name. Backbenchers, Hermione called
them.
of the Wizengamot Harry didn’t know by name. Backbenchers, Hermione called
them.
Harry glanced at Thicknesse, who was chatting with half a dozen Aurors near
the lift. He was envious of the man’s composure — there was no sign on his
face that he was about to make one of the most important arrests of his
career.
the lift. He was envious of the man’s composure — there was no sign on his
face that he was about to make one of the most important arrests of his
career.
The Minister stepping out of the lift drew some attention from the Ministry
employees in the Atrium, though no one approached her — Bones’s stern
expression must have scared them off, Harry thought with some amusement.
employees in the Atrium, though no one approached her — Bones’s stern
expression must have scared them off, Harry thought with some amusement.
Just then, Malfoy stepped out of the fireplace. The wizard was through the
Thief’s Downfall before he suddenly stopped walking, staring first at Bones,
then at Thicknesse, who was walking straight towards him.
Thief’s Downfall before he suddenly stopped walking, staring first at Bones,
then at Thicknesse, who was walking straight towards him.
Malfoy turned, as if to leave, but the fireplaces had gone out already, as
planned. Harry saw a sneer appear on the man’s face, before a thin smile
replaced it as Malfoy turned to face Thicknesse.
planned. Harry saw a sneer appear on the man’s face, before a thin smile
replaced it as Malfoy turned to face Thicknesse.
Everyone in the Atrium was now staring at Malfoy and Thicknesse. If any
traitors were among the crowd, they wouldn’t be easy to spot.
traitors were among the crowd, they wouldn’t be easy to spot.
Harry had his wand out, as did his friends, and kept glancing around for any
threat. Any danger.
threat. Any danger.
Thicknesse stopped a few yards in front of Malfoy. “Augustus Malfoy, you are
under arrest for treason.” His voice carried far through the Atrium, even
though it didn’t sound as if he had cast an Amplifying Charm.
under arrest for treason.” His voice carried far through the Atrium, even
though it didn’t sound as if he had cast an Amplifying Charm.
“Treason?” Malfoy scoffed. “Has the Ministry fallen so low that it has become
a tool to be wielded against political opponents?” He stood stiff and
straight, but hadn’t drawn his wand. That was a good sign, in Harry’s opinion
— it probably meant that Malfoy didn’t have enough traitors around to fight it
out.
a tool to be wielded against political opponents?” He stood stiff and
straight, but hadn’t drawn his wand. That was a good sign, in Harry’s opinion
— it probably meant that Malfoy didn’t have enough traitors around to fight it
out.
“Hardly,” Thicknesse responded. “We know about your plan to bomb the
Wizengamot.” Two Aurors stepped forward to flank Malfoy as the crowd observing
the scene gasped upon hearing this.
Wizengamot.” Two Aurors stepped forward to flank Malfoy as the crowd observing
the scene gasped upon hearing this.
The man flinched. “Preposterous! This is an obvious attempt to discredit and
frame me!” He took a step back, though. “You cannot arrest a member of the
Wizengamot! This is treason!”
frame me!” He took a step back, though. “You cannot arrest a member of the
Wizengamot! This is treason!”
“You are a traitor!” Thicknesse retorted. “Take him!”
Malfoy tried to draw his wand, but the Aurors stunned him right away, and the
wand clattered as it fell to the ground.
wand clattered as it fell to the ground.
Harry kept an eye on the crowd, his wand pointed at the ground, but ready to
cast. Some looked as if they were ready to start a fight, either to to help or
kill Malfoy, but no one actually made any threatening moves while he was taken
down to the DMLE’s cells.
cast. Some looked as if they were ready to start a fight, either to to help or
kill Malfoy, but no one actually made any threatening moves while he was taken
down to the DMLE’s cells.
Harry didn’t relax his guard, though, not even when he and his friends were on
their way up to the Wizengamot. He knew it would be some time until he would
feel safe again inside the Ministry.
their way up to the Wizengamot. He knew it would be some time until he would
feel safe again inside the Ministry.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, April 7th, 1997**
“… Malfoy was arrested on the way to the Wizengamot. Philius Runcorn, the most
senior member of the Wizengamot and close friend of Augustus Malfoy, was
arrested in the Wizengamot Chamber, together with several of their
acquaintances.”
senior member of the Wizengamot and close friend of Augustus Malfoy, was
arrested in the Wizengamot Chamber, together with several of their
acquaintances.”
Bess Cox wasn’t the only one listening to the Resistance Radio in Freddie’s
Fish’n’Chips who whistled in response to the news. Rumours had spread since
the early afternoon of a shake-up at the Ministry and had grown wilder with
each passing hour. The Resistance storming the building, capturing the
Wizengamot, Malfoy launching a coup, Bones forming a dictatorship, the ICW
intervening… the rumours had been piling up, and her and Randall’s attempts to
find more people willing to take the fight to the purebloods in hiding had not
fared well when everyone had been discussing the latest ‘news’.
Fish’n’Chips who whistled in response to the news. Rumours had spread since
the early afternoon of a shake-up at the Ministry and had grown wilder with
each passing hour. The Resistance storming the building, capturing the
Wizengamot, Malfoy launching a coup, Bones forming a dictatorship, the ICW
intervening… the rumours had been piling up, and her and Randall’s attempts to
find more people willing to take the fight to the purebloods in hiding had not
fared well when everyone had been discussing the latest ‘news’.
“The arrests happened after the Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn
Resistance discovered that Mister Malfoy was planning to blow up the
Wizengamot in the middle of a session, murdering everyone but those absent —
namely, himself and a few of his cronies — and framing muggleborn extremists
for the attack.”
Resistance discovered that Mister Malfoy was planning to blow up the
Wizengamot in the middle of a session, murdering everyone but those absent —
namely, himself and a few of his cronies — and framing muggleborn extremists
for the attack.”
The whistles turned to yells and shouts of anger. Bess ground her teeth. If
she got her hands on Malfoy…
she got her hands on Malfoy…
Someone turned up the volume on the wireless receiver, and the voice of the
Resistance Radio’s announcer rose above the angry cries of the audience.
Resistance Radio’s announcer rose above the angry cries of the audience.
“… presented with such evidence, the Ministry arrested the culprits. While
Mister Malfoy’s exact plans are not yet known, it’s clear, both from sources
close to the case as well as his public statements, that Mister Malfoy wanted
to stop Wizarding Britain from becoming a democracy where everyone has equal
rights no matter their blood status, and that he didn’t care how much death
and destruction would be caused by his futile efforts.”
Mister Malfoy’s exact plans are not yet known, it’s clear, both from sources
close to the case as well as his public statements, that Mister Malfoy wanted
to stop Wizarding Britain from becoming a democracy where everyone has equal
rights no matter their blood status, and that he didn’t care how much death
and destruction would be caused by his futile efforts.”
Once more the yells drowned out the wireless broadcast, but this time, the
repeated shouts to settle down and listen from various guests, including Bess
herself, didn’t have any effect. Cursing, she sat down and huffed.
repeated shouts to settle down and listen from various guests, including Bess
herself, didn’t have any effect. Cursing, she sat down and huffed.
Randall, who had stayed sitting, pointed at the door. “Let’s go outside!”
She dropped a few coins on the table to pay for her meal — she didn’t want him
to pay for both of them — and followed him out on to the street. “Those
bastards!”
to pay for both of them — and followed him out on to the street. “Those
bastards!”
He nodded. “Although if this is true, then Malfoy just ruined the Old
Families. Trying to murder all of them just so he can kill Granger, Black and
Potter as well? No one will want to support anything he supported for a
while.”
Families. Trying to murder all of them just so he can kill Granger, Black and
Potter as well? No one will want to support anything he supported for a
while.”
“‘If this is true’?” Bess narrowed her eyes at him.
A flick of his wand cast a privacy spell around the two of them. “It seems
almost too convenient for Malfoy to try something like this — and for Black
and the Resistance to find out about it in time to stop it.”
almost too convenient for Malfoy to try something like this — and for Black
and the Resistance to find out about it in time to stop it.”
Bess blinked. “Do you mean they set him up?”
Randall shrugged. “Maybe. It has certainly removed the biggest obstacle to
reforming the Wizengamot and the Ministry, and pulled the rug out from under
any other pureblood supremacists still holding out.”
reforming the Wizengamot and the Ministry, and pulled the rug out from under
any other pureblood supremacists still holding out.”
It made a lot of sense to Bess. She slowly nodded, then shrugged. “I don’t
care either way, as long as this means that we can finally replace the
purebloods in the Wizengamot.”
care either way, as long as this means that we can finally replace the
purebloods in the Wizengamot.”
He chuckled as they walked towards the main street of the Alley. “Yes. Whether
this was a set-up, or a lucky break, the Resistance better not miss this
opportunity.”
this was a set-up, or a lucky break, the Resistance better not miss this
opportunity.”
Bess nodded. They had lost enough time playing nice with the purebloods. Then
she grinned. “At least the Wizengamot won’t let him go. Not when he had
planned to kill ’em all.”
she grinned. “At least the Wizengamot won’t let him go. Not when he had
planned to kill ’em all.”
“You’re right,” he said. “The only question will be: Veil or Kiss?”
She grinned. It didn’t matter, not really — Malfoy deserved both.
---
**Kent, Greengrass Manor, April 7th, 1997**
“…the latest example of stubborn bigotry. Malfoy was willing to murder dozens,
including his so-called friends, just so he could keep the Old Families in
power! But he failed, just as everyone else trying to follow his example will
fail!
including his so-called friends, just so he could keep the Old Families in
power! But he failed, just as everyone else trying to follow his example will
fail!
“We’re fighting for the rights of every wizard and witch in Britain, no matter
their blood! We will win for all of us! We will have democracy! We will have
equality! Blood doesn’t matter!”
their blood! We will win for all of us! We will have democracy! We will have
equality! Blood doesn’t matter!”
Daphne Greengrass, sitting on her bed in her room, sighed and flicked her wand
to turn the wireless receiver off, then slumped slightly. It was done. Malfoy
and Runcorn and their cronies had been arrested. Thanks to herself and her
friend. Who was currently shaking her head at Daphne.
to turn the wireless receiver off, then slumped slightly. It was done. Malfoy
and Runcorn and their cronies had been arrested. Thanks to herself and her
friend. Who was currently shaking her head at Daphne.
“They didn’t mention us.” Tracey, seated sideways on Daphne’s favourite chair,
arms draped over the backrest, mock-pouted.
arms draped over the backrest, mock-pouted.
“They didn’t have to. Our involvement will be obvious soon enough,” Daphne
said. “Once it becomes known that we’ve not been arrested.” They hadn’t been
at the session, after all.
said. “Once it becomes known that we’ve not been arrested.” They hadn’t been
at the session, after all.
Her friend snorted. “That information will already have spread. It’s a miracle
that the DMLE managed to keep the whole thing a secret until the arrest.”
that the DMLE managed to keep the whole thing a secret until the arrest.”
Daphne shrugged. “Our fates have been tied to Black’s ever since we decided to
turn on Theo.”
turn on Theo.”
Tracey narrowed her eyes at her. “You sound bitter about that. Having second
thoughts?”
thoughts?”
“It was the best course of action for us and our families.” That didn’t mean
that she liked it.
that she liked it.
“You thought about Malfoy’s plan, though.”
Her best friend knew her, of course. “As did you.”
“Of course,” Tracey said. “It would have been stupid not to carefully consider
all available options in our situation.”
all available options in our situation.”
Daphne hesitated a moment, then leaned forward. “So… why did you decide to
stick with Black?”
stick with Black?”
“Only a fool would trust a leader who sacrifices his allies like Malfoy was
planning to.” Tracey’s sneer seemed forced to Daphne. ‘He’d have sacrificed us
as well, either to cut a deal, or as a diversion for another of his plans.’
She huffed. “And he treated us like little girls.”
planning to.” Tracey’s sneer seemed forced to Daphne. ‘He’d have sacrificed us
as well, either to cut a deal, or as a diversion for another of his plans.’
She huffed. “And he treated us like little girls.”
“The werewolf does the same,” Daphne pointed out.
Her friend chuckled. “He tries to. But I’m wearing him down.” Daphne rolled
her eyes, and Tracey pouted. “Don’t spoil my fun.”
her eyes, and Tracey pouted. “Don’t spoil my fun.”
Daphne shivered. To flirt with a werewolf, even if it wasn’t serious…
“So, why didn’t you join Malfoy?”
“Same reason as you,” Daphne said.
After a moment, her friend tilted her head to the side. “Sick of the war,
then?”
then?”
Daphne looked out of the window, at the top of the trees of the garden
outside. “Like you.”
outside. “Like you.”
Neither of them said anything for a few minutes. Then Tracey broke the
silence. “Did you talk to Astoria yet?”
silence. “Did you talk to Astoria yet?”
Daphne winced. She wasn’t looking forward to that talk.
“Ah.” Tracey sighed. “Aren’t you afraid that she’ll run off to curse some
muggleborns?”
muggleborns?”
“I convinced her that Granger can keep track of her, as the Gryffindors did in
Hogwarts, and would hunt her down and kill her if she left the house.” She
didn’t like lying to her sister, but if it kept her from getting herself — and
their family — killed…
Hogwarts, and would hunt her down and kill her if she left the house.” She
didn’t like lying to her sister, but if it kept her from getting herself — and
their family — killed…
Tracey chuckled. “That’s a good one! And she fell for it?”
Daphne frowned. Tracey was her best friend, but Astoria was her sister. She
shrugged. “Lupin has been living here for weeks now. Are you certain that they
can’t track us?”
shrugged. “Lupin has been living here for weeks now. Are you certain that they
can’t track us?”
Tracey’s smirk vanished and she muttered a few rather colourful words under
her her breath.
her her breath.
Daphne nodded. Even if tracking them at Hogwarts had been Dumbledore’s doing,
the Headmaster might very well have shared that with Potter and his friends
before his death. “We can’t know for certain, but…” She shrugged.
the Headmaster might very well have shared that with Potter and his friends
before his death. “We can’t know for certain, but…” She shrugged.
“…it would be foolish to think we’re safe,” Tracey finished for her, clenching
her teeth.
her teeth.
“As long as we’re not acting against them, we should be safe, actually,”
Daphne said, “We’re now firmly established as their allies.” At least as far
as the public was concerned. And Malfoy’s cronies.
Daphne said, “We’re now firmly established as their allies.” At least as far
as the public was concerned. And Malfoy’s cronies.
“Unless they plan to use our deaths to frame another of their enemies,” Tracey
added with a cynical smile.
added with a cynical smile.
Daphne glared at her friend. That wasn’t what she wanted to hear.
---
**Cumbria, Britain, April 7th, 1997**
“Thank you, sir.” Hermione Granger smiled at the mercenary as she pushed a
small bag over the folding table. “Here’s the rest of your payment, as agreed.
And a bonus, for your excellent work.”
small bag over the folding table. “Here’s the rest of your payment, as agreed.
And a bonus, for your excellent work.”
The Major nodded at her, then opened the bag and checked the money and gold
inside. The sun was about to set, but they didn’t need lamps yet.
inside. The sun was about to set, but they didn’t need lamps yet.
The Sergeant scoffed. “We’d have done better if some of the recruits hadn’t
been missing half the time.” He narrowed his eyes at her. “Or all of them for
your ‘field trip’.”
been missing half the time.” He narrowed his eyes at her. “Or all of them for
your ‘field trip’.”
She smiled wryly. “They needed to relax.”
He slowly shook his head. “There was nothing in the news, yet once they were
back they acted as if they had been in combat.”
back they acted as if they had been in combat.”
“Just a field trip.” She shrugged.
“Most of them are older than you, but they follow you. And they don’t resent
Potter and Weasley, even though those two get special treatment all the time.”
Potter and Weasley, even though those two get special treatment all the time.”
“Quit fishing for information, Mick,” the Major said. “Our clients paid for
their privacy.”
their privacy.”
“Right.” The Sergeant looked at her for a moment, then glanced at the Major.
“Payment checks out?”
“Payment checks out?”
“Yes.”
The Sergeant grunted and stood up. “I’ll get the Land Rover then.”
Once the burly mercenary had left the folding table, the Major said in a low
voice: “He doesn’t like mysteries.”
voice: “He doesn’t like mysteries.”
“I understand the feeling.” She really did — in their place, she’d have gone
crazy trying to figure out what was really going on.
crazy trying to figure out what was really going on.
“I bet you do. But do you understand not being able to figure something out?”
She just smiled. She couldn’t answer that.
“Thought so.” He inclined his head, then stood up and held out his hand.
‘Pleasure doing business with you.’ She rose as well and shook it. “Will there
be another contract in the future?”
‘Pleasure doing business with you.’ She rose as well and shook it. “Will there
be another contract in the future?”
Hermione hesitated a moment, then nodded. “That is likely.” The war had proven
that the Ministry’s organisation wasn’t up to the task of fighting a war.
Aurors were meant for police work, even those hunting dark wizards, and the
Hit-Wizards’ numbers could not expand quickly enough during war time. And the
majority of them were glorified guards, not trained soldiers.
that the Ministry’s organisation wasn’t up to the task of fighting a war.
Aurors were meant for police work, even those hunting dark wizards, and the
Hit-Wizards’ numbers could not expand quickly enough during war time. And the
majority of them were glorified guards, not trained soldiers.
“Maybe I’ll find out what, exactly, you need soldiers for.” He nodded at her.
“Maybe.” Some muggles were told about magic, after all, even without being
related to a wizard or witch.
related to a wizard or witch.
“Until then, ma’am.” He saluted her.
“Sir.” She returned the salute.
---
Hermione Granger looked at the camp. Tents were packing themselves up,
firepits and latrines — not that those had really been used, with wizarding
tents available — were being filled with earth, and litter was being vanished
left and right. With the Major and the Sergeant gone, there was no longer any
need to hide magic, and the latest members of the Resistance were using their
wands to clean up Justin’s family’s woods.
firepits and latrines — not that those had really been used, with wizarding
tents available — were being filled with earth, and litter was being vanished
left and right. With the Major and the Sergeant gone, there was no longer any
need to hide magic, and the latest members of the Resistance were using their
wands to clean up Justin’s family’s woods.
She turned around and stepped inside her own tent. Justin, Sally-Anne, John,
Tania, Louise and Seamus were arrayed around a conjured table in the centre of
the living room.
Tania, Louise and Seamus were arrayed around a conjured table in the centre of
the living room.
She nodded at them. “Alright. You all know what happened today.”
“We let the Ministry arrest Malfoy and Runcorn.” Seamus’s tone clearly
indicated that he didn’t like that. She refrained from rolling her eyes.
indicated that he didn’t like that. She refrained from rolling her eyes.
“We just saw the death of the Death Eater faction in the Wizengamot. The
bigots just lost whatever support they still had among the other members.” She
stood straight, hands crossed behind her back. ‘We’ll be able to push the
Wizengamot Reform Act through as soon as the dust from the arrests has
settled.’ With a toothy smile, she added: “We did it. We’ve won the war.”
bigots just lost whatever support they still had among the other members.” She
stood straight, hands crossed behind her back. ‘We’ll be able to push the
Wizengamot Reform Act through as soon as the dust from the arrests has
settled.’ With a toothy smile, she added: “We did it. We’ve won the war.”
Sally-Anne was the first to cheer and she hugged a smiling Justin. Tania
grinned widely and elbowed Seamus, who glanced at her in response. Louise
yelled “Yes!” and John nodded. Soon everyone was yelling.
grinned widely and elbowed Seamus, who glanced at her in response. Louise
yelled “Yes!” and John nodded. Soon everyone was yelling.
Hermione watched her friends — even stubborn, bloodthirsty Seamus — cheer with
a wide smile of her own. After over a year of struggling, they had beaten the
bigots. In the field, and in the Wizengamot. They had won. She sighed. They
had paid a heavy price, though.
a wide smile of her own. After over a year of struggling, they had beaten the
bigots. In the field, and in the Wizengamot. They had won. She sighed. They
had paid a heavy price, though.
“What do we do now?” Sally-Anne’s question broke her out of her reminiscing.
The witch was shifting her weight from one leg to the other and back. ‘We won
the war, and now it’s all politics. That’s… “She shrugged.” I’m not a
politician. And we’re an army, not a political party.’ Her eyes traveled to
the tent’s exit. “They just finished training, too.”
The witch was shifting her weight from one leg to the other and back. ‘We won
the war, and now it’s all politics. That’s… “She shrugged.” I’m not a
politician. And we’re an army, not a political party.’ Her eyes traveled to
the tent’s exit. “They just finished training, too.”
Hermione nodded. “The Resistance is still needed. We’ve seen that the Ministry
wasn’t ready for a war. They didn’t have an army, just some Aurors and guards.
More importantly, they had no plan to create an army. They had no reserves. No
plan for a mobilisation or conscription.” Which had been a very good thing for
the Resistance during the war. “And we know that even with the bigots utterly
discredited, we have enemies — the Jamaican houngans. Possibly the French.” If
Sirius’s next mission failed.
wasn’t ready for a war. They didn’t have an army, just some Aurors and guards.
More importantly, they had no plan to create an army. They had no reserves. No
plan for a mobilisation or conscription.” Which had been a very good thing for
the Resistance during the war. “And we know that even with the bigots utterly
discredited, we have enemies — the Jamaican houngans. Possibly the French.” If
Sirius’s next mission failed.
“Are we going to merge with the Hit-Wizards?” Louise asked.
Hermione shook her head. “I think we should take them over. Train them as we
have trained. Keep a small cadre for guard duties, and the rest of us as
reserves who can be called up in a very short time if needed.”
have trained. Keep a small cadre for guard duties, and the rest of us as
reserves who can be called up in a very short time if needed.”
“Like a militia?” Justin had his arm around Sally-Anne’s shoulders.
“Sort of,” she said. “It’s more like the militaries on the continent that use
conscription. Like the Swiss.”
conscription. Like the Swiss.”
“So, we’ll be in control of Wizarding Britain’s military.” Seamus grinned.
“We’ll be in control of the entire Ministry,” Hermione said. “Once we have a
majority in the Wizengamot.” But having control of the military would ensure
that there wouldn’t be another set of muggleborn laws. Never again.
majority in the Wizengamot.” But having control of the military would ensure
that there wouldn’t be another set of muggleborn laws. Never again.
She took a deep breath. “And as much as I hate to say it just as we won the
struggle in Britain, we have another battle in front of us.” Most of them
looked puzzled, but Justin and Louise nodded. “We need to find a cure for the
Withering Curse.”
struggle in Britain, we have another battle in front of us.” Most of them
looked puzzled, but Justin and Louise nodded. “We need to find a cure for the
Withering Curse.”
And Hermione didn’t think that the houngans would give it to them without a
fight.
fight.
---
**West of Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, April 7th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood took a deep breath, inhaling the cool air of the Jamaican
night. He had done it — he had bent the wards of the mansion below him. They
wouldn’t stop or hinder him any more.
night. He had done it — he had bent the wards of the mansion below him. They
wouldn’t stop or hinder him any more.
But wards were not all the manor’s defences. He already knew that the mambo
had zombies as servants. Even if they were muggles they would present an
obstacle. Or a distraction. He had seen kennels in a side building of the
manor as well — there would be dogs, at the least. Maybe magical animals.
Nothing that could fly, though — the kennels had no roof.
had zombies as servants. Even if they were muggles they would present an
obstacle. Or a distraction. He had seen kennels in a side building of the
manor as well — there would be dogs, at the least. Maybe magical animals.
Nothing that could fly, though — the kennels had no roof.
He scoffed. He could deal with mere animals. Nor was he much bothered by the
prospect of dealing with spelled furniture and cursed objects. A skilled
wizard’s home was a death trap for an unwary intruder. Or should be, at least
— but Augustus was neither unwary nor inexperienced.
prospect of dealing with spelled furniture and cursed objects. A skilled
wizard’s home was a death trap for an unwary intruder. Or should be, at least
— but Augustus was neither unwary nor inexperienced.
No, the real trouble was the mambo inside the manor. He had to take her alive
to get her knowledge. And that would be difficult. Even for a wizard as
skilled as himself.
to get her knowledge. And that would be difficult. Even for a wizard as
skilled as himself.
Fortunately, he was prepared. He reached into his enchanted pocket and pulled
out a small case containing several vials. He took a sip from one of them,
ignoring its vile taste. That would remove his scent, rendering the dogs
useless.
out a small case containing several vials. He took a sip from one of them,
ignoring its vile taste. That would remove his scent, rendering the dogs
useless.
Another vial he drank in its entirety — he could take no chances with this
one, even if he could feel his stomach already growing unsettled. Not with at
least two apprentices inside the manor as well, according to the memories he
had taken from ‘Ricky’.
one, even if he could feel his stomach already growing unsettled. Not with at
least two apprentices inside the manor as well, according to the memories he
had taken from ‘Ricky’.
He closed his eyes for a moment, then pointed his wand at his face. A
complicated transfiguration later, the night’s darkness faded from his view,
and he saw the manor on the small hill below as an owl would see it at night.
complicated transfiguration later, the night’s darkness faded from his view,
and he saw the manor on the small hill below as an owl would see it at night.
He cast a Disillusionment Charm and started to carefully make his way
downslope from the ridge on which he had been staying. It took him twenty
minutes to reach the wardline, mostly because he didn’t follow any of the
paths in the woods and fields — those would be covered with detection spells
or even traps.
downslope from the ridge on which he had been staying. It took him twenty
minutes to reach the wardline, mostly because he didn’t follow any of the
paths in the woods and fields — those would be covered with detection spells
or even traps.
Despite his confidence in his work, he held his breath when he reached out
with his arm — his left arm, of course, never his wand arm. While unlikely, he
might have missed a defence. But while his skin tingled when he pushed his
hand through the wards, he encountered no resistance nor was he pushed back or
struck down. Releasing his breath, he stepped inside the wards.
with his arm — his left arm, of course, never his wand arm. While unlikely, he
might have missed a defence. But while his skin tingled when he pushed his
hand through the wards, he encountered no resistance nor was he pushed back or
struck down. Releasing his breath, he stepped inside the wards.
A path ahead of him led towards the manor’s side entrance, but he didn’t take
it. Nor did he walk over the lawn. Instead, he pulled out his broom and
unshrank it, then looked at the balcony on the south side. Zombies generally
couldn’t fly, so the defences on the ground were likely to be more powerful.
it. Nor did he walk over the lawn. Instead, he pulled out his broom and
unshrank it, then looked at the balcony on the south side. Zombies generally
couldn’t fly, so the defences on the ground were likely to be more powerful.
He fought down a sudden bout of nausea, flew up to the first floor and eyed
the balcony, then shook his head. Too obvious. Too vulnerable. He flew on,
towards a small window near the balcony. He could see a corridor behind it.
Perfect.
the balcony, then shook his head. Too obvious. Too vulnerable. He flew on,
towards a small window near the balcony. He could see a corridor behind it.
Perfect.
He aimed his wand at it and cast a privacy charm on it to mask any sound his
entrance might cause, followed by an Unlocking Charm. He slipped inside, not
touching either pane or frame. Now he just had to find the mambo.
entrance might cause, followed by an Unlocking Charm. He slipped inside, not
touching either pane or frame. Now he just had to find the mambo.
Although the three markers moving toward his position that his
Human-presence-revealing Spell showed him might indicate that he had found her
already. Or she him.
Human-presence-revealing Spell showed him might indicate that he had found her
already. Or she him.
Chapter 61: Foreign Solutions
=============================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. He improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 61: Foreign Solutions**
‘*Augustus Malfoy’s failed plot to blow up the Wizengamot spelled the end of
what has come to be known as the ’traditionalist pureblood movement’ in
Wizarding Britain. By planning to murder not just his enemies, but his allies,
even his own kin, Malfoy betrayed the very ideals — blood, honour, tradition —
for which he claimed to be fighting. His actions did not just discredit his
entire faction, but also allowed Sirius Black to portray his own movement as
the only reasonable alternative to a complete takeover by the muggleborns.
Such a portrayal would have otherwise been very difficult for any member of
the Black family, even more so for a wizard with Black’s radical history. It
is quite ironic that the very attempt to prevent Black’s takeover of the
Wizengamot instead greatly facilitated it. This is one of the reasons some of
my colleagues consider the Malfoy bomb plot as the end of the Second Blood War
— especially if they consider the bombing of Malfoy Manor to be its start —
despite the fact that this requires one to ignore several significant events
which are undoubtedly part of that conflict.’*
what has come to be known as the ’traditionalist pureblood movement’ in
Wizarding Britain. By planning to murder not just his enemies, but his allies,
even his own kin, Malfoy betrayed the very ideals — blood, honour, tradition —
for which he claimed to be fighting. His actions did not just discredit his
entire faction, but also allowed Sirius Black to portray his own movement as
the only reasonable alternative to a complete takeover by the muggleborns.
Such a portrayal would have otherwise been very difficult for any member of
the Black family, even more so for a wizard with Black’s radical history. It
is quite ironic that the very attempt to prevent Black’s takeover of the
Wizengamot instead greatly facilitated it. This is one of the reasons some of
my colleagues consider the Malfoy bomb plot as the end of the Second Blood War
— especially if they consider the bombing of Malfoy Manor to be its start —
despite the fact that this requires one to ignore several significant events
which are undoubtedly part of that conflict.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**West of Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica, April 7th, 1997**
For a moment, Augustus Rookwood considered retreating. It was obvious that he
had lost the element of surprise. But if he did, he would lose more than a
week’s work — some of the ingredients for the potions he had used were
nigh-impossible to come by as a civilian unless one had lavish funds. And
while money could be acquired, contacts who were unscrupulous enough to deal
with Britain’s most wanted wizard without betraying him to the authorities
were another thing. Further, he wouldn’t be able to repeat the same tactic
again. So he pressed his lips together and dismounted, sticking the broom to
the wall outside. He could do this — he was prepared and had a plan.
had lost the element of surprise. But if he did, he would lose more than a
week’s work — some of the ingredients for the potions he had used were
nigh-impossible to come by as a civilian unless one had lavish funds. And
while money could be acquired, contacts who were unscrupulous enough to deal
with Britain’s most wanted wizard without betraying him to the authorities
were another thing. Further, he wouldn’t be able to repeat the same tactic
again. So he pressed his lips together and dismounted, sticking the broom to
the wall outside. He could do this — he was prepared and had a plan.
One of the markers was coming at him from behind, two from ahead. A flick of
his wand transfigured the planter in the alcove in front of him into a vaguely
humanoid figure while he stepped into another alcove on the other side of the
corridor. With a twist of his wand he conjured a giant snake behind him. A
Disillusionment Charm hid it from view as it slithered to cover his back.
his wand transfigured the planter in the alcove in front of him into a vaguely
humanoid figure while he stepped into another alcove on the other side of the
corridor. With a twist of his wand he conjured a giant snake behind him. A
Disillusionment Charm hid it from view as it slithered to cover his back.
Just before the two markers in front reached the corner ahead, he opened a
vial in his pocket. The slight hissing noise was drowned out by an explosion
that blew a large hole in the transfigured planter. An amateur’s mistake. And
he hadn’t seen a spell — that had been a vial of Exploding Fluid.
vial in his pocket. The slight hissing noise was drowned out by an explosion
that blew a large hole in the transfigured planter. An amateur’s mistake. And
he hadn’t seen a spell — that had been a vial of Exploding Fluid.
The first marker would be the apprentice then, Augustus concluded — the mambo
wouldn’t make such a mistake, nor would she use a vial instead of a spell.
Which meant he didn’t need to take that one alive. The apprentice — a boy,
Augustus noticed — turned the corner, his wand covering the row of alcoves,
but he hesitated, not wanting to repeat his mistake, just long enough for
Augustus to strike.
wouldn’t make such a mistake, nor would she use a vial instead of a spell.
Which meant he didn’t need to take that one alive. The apprentice — a boy,
Augustus noticed — turned the corner, his wand covering the row of alcoves,
but he hesitated, not wanting to repeat his mistake, just long enough for
Augustus to strike.
A Reductor Curse blew a hole in the floor just behind the boy, causing him to
stumble — straight into Augustus’s Fire Whip. The boy — or maybe girl; the
spell illuminated their face long enough to show they were younger than
Augustus had expected, barely of an age to attend Hogwarts — couldn’t even
scream before their head was torn off.
stumble — straight into Augustus’s Fire Whip. The boy — or maybe girl; the
spell illuminated their face long enough to show they were younger than
Augustus had expected, barely of an age to attend Hogwarts — couldn’t even
scream before their head was torn off.
Augustus took a step back, taking cover in the alcove as he cast a Shield
Charm. The second marker was about to turn the corner behind him — and the
third in front of him. That one would be the mambo, which meant his
disillusioned snake should be able to take care of the second apprentice.
Charm. The second marker was about to turn the corner behind him — and the
third in front of him. That one would be the mambo, which meant his
disillusioned snake should be able to take care of the second apprentice.
He heard a yell, cut short, behind him, and glanced back. A figure seemed to
be struggling with an invisible snake, then it went limp. Grinning, he turned
his attention to the front. A bout of nausea hit him, but he fought it down.
Not now, not so close to victory.
be struggling with an invisible snake, then it went limp. Grinning, he turned
his attention to the front. A bout of nausea hit him, but he fought it down.
Not now, not so close to victory.
The third marker was right at the corner, hiding out of sight — but not out of
range of his detection spell. A Blasting Curse would wreck the corner and
shower her with splinters…
range of his detection spell. A Blasting Curse would wreck the corner and
shower her with splinters…
He hesitated. This was too easy. No experienced witch would fight like this.
Not in her own home. His stomach tried to rebel again, and he bent over,
panting. He shook his head. No matter; she was a threat.
Not in her own home. His stomach tried to rebel again, and he bent over,
panting. He shook his head. No matter; she was a threat.
He blew the corner to smithereens and heard her cry out in pain, then saw her
body collapse in a shower of blood, shredded by the stone shards. Not even a
Shield Charm? And he hadn’t encountered any of the defenses and curses he had
expected. Gasping, he once again retreated into the alcove and pointed his
wand at the limp body behind him.
body collapse in a shower of blood, shredded by the stone shards. Not even a
Shield Charm? And he hadn’t encountered any of the defenses and curses he had
expected. Gasping, he once again retreated into the alcove and pointed his
wand at the limp body behind him.
“Accio wand!” he whispered.
Nothing.
He pointed his wand at the headless apprentice in front of him.
“Accio wand!” Louder this time.
Nothing flew or leapt towards him. But he had seen the wand in the boy’s hand…
the vial! The mistakes!
the vial! The mistakes!
Those had been zombies! Decoys! He had to escape!
“Accio broom!” he shouted, his spell overpowering the weak charm with which he
had stuck the broom to the wall outside. He saw the broom flew towards him.
His Human-presence-revealing Spell showed no enemies nearby. He reached out to
grab the shaft…
had stuck the broom to the wall outside. He saw the broom flew towards him.
His Human-presence-revealing Spell showed no enemies nearby. He reached out to
grab the shaft…
… and skeletal arms tore through the walls, floor and ceiling, smashing into
his shield, battering it down and forcing him back into the alcove, where more
bone limbs grasped at him.
his shield, battering it down and forcing him back into the alcove, where more
bone limbs grasped at him.
A Blasting Curse blew a hole in the phalanx of bone limbs, opening an escape
route — but the blast had been too close, and the force of the explosion also
shattered his Shield Charm. Before he could recast it or take more than one
step towards his broom — held by other skeletal hands, he now saw — dozens of
the limbs descended on him, smashing him to the ground.
route — but the blast had been too close, and the force of the explosion also
shattered his Shield Charm. Before he could recast it or take more than one
step towards his broom — held by other skeletal hands, he now saw — dozens of
the limbs descended on him, smashing him to the ground.
His wand arm erupted in pain, broken — or even shattered. He screamed,
desperately struggling, trying to escape despite the pain, despite his wand
being lost, but his efforts were futile. The convenient cover the alcoves had
provided, the hasty reaction — it had all been a trap, he realised.
desperately struggling, trying to escape despite the pain, despite his wand
being lost, but his efforts were futile. The convenient cover the alcoves had
provided, the hasty reaction — it had all been a trap, he realised.
Immobilised by dozens of skeletal hands, he felt his stomach rise again.
---
He was panting, trying not to smell the stench of his own bile and snot as it
formed a puddle right next to his head, when he heard laughter. Looking up,
hissing at the pain the movement caused his hurt body, he saw a dark-skinned
woman wearing thin, white and scandalously short robes, approach.
formed a puddle right next to his head, when he heard laughter. Looking up,
hissing at the pain the movement caused his hurt body, he saw a dark-skinned
woman wearing thin, white and scandalously short robes, approach.
She flicked her wand, and he saw his own wand fly towards her. She caught it
with her left hand. She stepped closer, forcing him to crane his neck further
so he could keep her face in view.
with her left hand. She stepped closer, forcing him to crane his neck further
so he could keep her face in view.
“Are you the one who murdered Markus?” She had a heavy accent. A native mambo,
then. Not a mudblood raised as one.
then. Not a mudblood raised as one.
“Who?” He played dumb.
She snorted and waved her wand. At once, the skeletal hands gripping his
broken wand arm tightened, and he screamed. It felt as if shards of his own
bones were being driven into his flesh and through his skin.
broken wand arm tightened, and he screamed. It felt as if shards of his own
bones were being driven into his flesh and through his skin.
“Are you?”
“Markus Williams? I killed him, yes,” he spat. He gulped down air, the smell
of blood mingling with the stench of bile despite his nose running. He felt
his stomach rise again, and dry-retched several times.
of blood mingling with the stench of bile despite his nose running. He felt
his stomach rise again, and dry-retched several times.
“Disgusting.”
He glanced up and saw a faint shimmer around the mambo’s head. A Bubble-Head
Charm. Behind her, he saw a young man turn the broken figure back into a
planter. That would be her apprentice. He didn’t say anything, just continued
to breathe heavily. If she noticed the slight hissing sound…
Charm. Behind her, he saw a young man turn the broken figure back into a
planter. That would be her apprentice. He didn’t say anything, just continued
to breathe heavily. If she noticed the slight hissing sound…
“Who are you?”
“You don’t know me?” His forced laugh turned into a cough that wracked his
body with pain each time his chest moved. He just had to endure this a little
longer. But if she hurt him any worse… ‘Rookwood. Augustus Rookwood,’ he
quickly said. “I’d bow, but…” His grimace might be called a smile if one were
blind and squinted.
body with pain each time his chest moved. He just had to endure this a little
longer. But if she hurt him any worse… ‘Rookwood. Augustus Rookwood,’ he
quickly said. “I’d bow, but…” His grimace might be called a smile if one were
blind and squinted.
The mambo’s own smile reminded him of Lestrange’s. “You’re the last British
Death Eater.”
Death Eater.”
“Not quite,” he said. How much longer did he have to endure this?
She frowned. He saw her apprentice step up behind her. “Mistress?” he asked in
the same accent. “The three decoys are dead. Too damaged to serve further.”
the same accent. “The three decoys are dead. Too damaged to serve further.”
Augustus saw a frown appear on the mambo’s face. “Dispose of them!” She spoke
without turning her head to look at the man, her attention focused on himself.
without turning her head to look at the man, her attention focused on himself.
“As you co…” the man bowed, then staggered, trailing off. Augustus saw him
blink, his lips moving, without saying a word.
blink, his lips moving, without saying a word.
This time, the mambo turned around, just in time to see her apprentice
collapse. She whirled back, not bothering to check on the man, and time seemed
to slow down for Augustus while he watched her wand swing to point at him. If
she…
collapse. She whirled back, not bothering to check on the man, and time seemed
to slow down for Augustus while he watched her wand swing to point at him. If
she…
But she didn’t cast. Instead, she shivered, then pulled something out of a
pocket of her robes, swallowing it. A bezoar, as expected. But that would only
treat the symptoms.
pocket of her robes, swallowing it. A bezoar, as expected. But that would only
treat the symptoms.
Once more her wand moved towards him, and once more her expression reminded
him of Lestrange. And then her face went slack and she collapsed.
him of Lestrange. And then her face went slack and she collapsed.
He let out a relieved breath, before another coughing fit shook his body. He
didn’t have much time left. And he was badly hurt, and still held in the
vice-like grip of these skeletal hands. He moved his left hand.
didn’t have much time left. And he was badly hurt, and still held in the
vice-like grip of these skeletal hands. He moved his left hand.
“Accio wand!”
Wandless magic had never been his forte, but failure was not an option — his
spare wand had been crushed along with his right forearm.
spare wand had been crushed along with his right forearm.
He saw the wand, his wand, twitch and roll an inch across the stone floor.
“Accio wand!”
Another inch.
“Accio wand!” he yelled as loudly as he could, putting everything he had into
the spell.
the spell.
The wand rolled towards him, bumping against a bone shard, then rolling over
it, closer and closer, until the fingers of his left hand closed around it.
Even exhausted and in agony from his wounds, he smiled.
it, closer and closer, until the fingers of his left hand closed around it.
Even exhausted and in agony from his wounds, he smiled.
“Evanesco. Evanesco. Evanesco.”
It took a dozen Vanishing Charms to free him from his bony bonds. His arm sent
waves of excruciating pain through his body when released, flopping down on
the stone floor before he could numb it.
waves of excruciating pain through his body when released, flopping down on
the stone floor before he could numb it.
Sweat ran down his brow, and his vision started to dim. Grinding his teeth, he
closed the vial in his pocket. He couldn’t afford even more poison spreading,
even though there couldn’t be much left anyway. A repurposed household charm
blew the poisoned air around him away with a steady breeze. Retching, he
pulled out his potion case, opening it with a flick of his wand, then fumbled
for the blue vial. When the cork seemed stuck he cursed with frustration, then
ripped it out with his teeth before gulping down the liquid inside. He had to
purge his body of the antidote to the airborne poison before it damaged him
further.
closed the vial in his pocket. He couldn’t afford even more poison spreading,
even though there couldn’t be much left anyway. A repurposed household charm
blew the poisoned air around him away with a steady breeze. Retching, he
pulled out his potion case, opening it with a flick of his wand, then fumbled
for the blue vial. When the cork seemed stuck he cursed with frustration, then
ripped it out with his teeth before gulping down the liquid inside. He had to
purge his body of the antidote to the airborne poison before it damaged him
further.
For a minute, he simply rested on the floor, shivering, until he could see
clearly again and didn’t feel like puking his guts out any more. He vanished
the blood-soaked right sleeve of his robes and winced at the sight of mangled
flesh pierced with bone. The Bone-Mending Charm wouldn’t be enough to fix it.
clearly again and didn’t feel like puking his guts out any more. He vanished
the blood-soaked right sleeve of his robes and winced at the sight of mangled
flesh pierced with bone. The Bone-Mending Charm wouldn’t be enough to fix it.
He could deal with it later. He hadn’t much time left; reinforcements could
arrive at any minute — the missing second apprentice might be off seeking
help. He muttered a few curses. If he had the time to loot the manor… but he
wouldn’t even be able to restock the potions he had used, and would use to
recover from this.
arrive at any minute — the missing second apprentice might be off seeking
help. He muttered a few curses. If he had the time to loot the manor… but he
wouldn’t even be able to restock the potions he had used, and would use to
recover from this.
Ah, well… he told himself that he wouldn’t have been able to use the same
trick twice anyway, even if he had another pair of vials of the poison and
antidote left. A flick of his wand stripped the mambo of her robes and
sandals, and anything else — he wouldn’t make her mistake, and leave her with
the tools to escape. A few spells later she was bound, wrapped in ropes,
blindfolded and silenced.
trick twice anyway, even if he had another pair of vials of the poison and
antidote left. A flick of his wand stripped the mambo of her robes and
sandals, and anything else — he wouldn’t make her mistake, and leave her with
the tools to escape. A few spells later she was bound, wrapped in ropes,
blindfolded and silenced.
A Killing Curse followed by a Vanishing Charm took care of the apprentice,
before he levitated his captive and mounted his broom. The skeletal hands had
scratched the shaft, but it seemed otherwise undamaged. Which was a good
thing, seeing as he had to fly it one handed.
before he levitated his captive and mounted his broom. The skeletal hands had
scratched the shaft, but it seemed otherwise undamaged. Which was a good
thing, seeing as he had to fly it one handed.
He landed at the wardline and shrank the broom, stashing it inside his robes,
then turned around to stare at the manor. For a moment, he hesitated. He knew
that there were rare books inside, exotic knowledge to be had, unique spells
to be found.
then turned around to stare at the manor. For a moment, he hesitated. He knew
that there were rare books inside, exotic knowledge to be had, unique spells
to be found.
Augustus shook his head. He pointed his wand, and cursed green fire sprang up
behind the broken windows of the first floor.
behind the broken windows of the first floor.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 7th, 1997**
Sirius Black looked up from the amber liquid in his glass when the door to his
living room opened. When he saw Vivienne entering, he smiled. “How did it go?”
living room opened. When he saw Vivienne entering, he smiled. “How did it go?”
“We can meet my family tomorrow, as planned,” she said, walking towards him.
“With our ‘guest’.”
“With our ‘guest’.”
He nodded and put the glass down. It was too late to drink liquor anyway. “Do
they expect any trouble?” His cover should have held, but the French Gendarmes
might have caught a lucky break.
they expect any trouble?” His cover should have held, but the French Gendarmes
might have caught a lucky break.
“No.” She shook her head then sat down on the armrest of his chair. “The
Gendarmes might suspect us, of course — we’re known to be Dubois’s main rivals
at the Court, together with the Delacours — but they lack any proof.”
Gendarmes might suspect us, of course — we’re known to be Dubois’s main rivals
at the Court, together with the Delacours — but they lack any proof.”
“And the Delacours?” They had facilitated his cover story with carefully
forged documentation.
forged documentation.
“I trust that they will ’ave covered their tracks. They certainly have the
influence and experience to stall an investigation for a few more days.” She
shrugged, and Sirius couldn’t help thinking that the d’Aigles and Delacours
might not be as close as he had thought.
influence and experience to stall an investigation for a few more days.” She
shrugged, and Sirius couldn’t help thinking that the d’Aigles and Delacours
might not be as close as he had thought.
“And the audience?” he asked, wrapping his arm around her waist. He had to
meet the Duc in person in order to take the man’s measure. And to impress upon
him the folly of further meddling in British politics.
meet the Duc in person in order to take the man’s measure. And to impress upon
him the folly of further meddling in British politics.
“Arranged for the evening. Although the Duc insisted on receiving you in the
Chateau.” She winced. “’E refused to meet you on my family’s estate.”
Chateau.” She winced. “’E refused to meet you on my family’s estate.”
Sirius took a deep breath through clenched teeth. “A private audience — a
secret one. He could easily make me disappear.”
secret one. He could easily make me disappear.”
“’E wouldn’t do that.” Vivienne shook her head almost violently. “It would be
dishonourable.”
dishonourable.”
“As dishonourable as me seducing Dubois to kidnap her?”
He saw her flinch in response, before she raised her chin. “It was justified.
She wanted to plunge Britain into another war. And ’er plans for the French
muggleborns…”
She wanted to plunge Britain into another war. And ’er plans for the French
muggleborns…”
“The Duc might think a small betrayal justified as well, in response to my
actions against Dubois. Or to exchange me for her.” If Dubois had been the
Duc’s lover, as some rumours claimed, then the leader of Magical France might
very well decide to hold Sirius hostage to ensure Dubois’s survival, no matter
the diplomatic consequences.
actions against Dubois. Or to exchange me for her.” If Dubois had been the
Duc’s lover, as some rumours claimed, then the leader of Magical France might
very well decide to hold Sirius hostage to ensure Dubois’s survival, no matter
the diplomatic consequences.
“If she survives she’ll do all she can to take revenge,” Vivienne said. “And
if the Duc would go to such lengths to save ’er…”
if the Duc would go to such lengths to save ’er…”
“…then she has his ear. And probably his heart too,” Sirius finished for her.
“No. The Duc is not that sentimental. If she was ’is mistress, maybe. But a
former lover? Who was kidnapped by ’er current lover? No.” Vivienne shook her
head. “’E would appear not just weak, but foolish to risk a war for such a
witch.”
former lover? Who was kidnapped by ’er current lover? No.” Vivienne shook her
head. “’E would appear not just weak, but foolish to risk a war for such a
witch.”
“Are you certain?” Sirius was a Gryffindor, so his bravery was not in
question, but if the Duc took him hostage, Harry and his friends might react
in a rash and violent manner.
question, but if the Duc took him hostage, Harry and his friends might react
in a rash and violent manner.
“Yes. While we do not elect our leader, a Duc who loses the respect of the
Court and the aristocracy cannot ’old on to ’is position for long.”
Court and the aristocracy cannot ’old on to ’is position for long.”
It seemed French politics were even worse than British ones, Sirius thought.
They hadn’t had two civil wars since Grindelwald’s war, though. He nodded.
“Alright. So, will he sacrifice Dubois then?”
They hadn’t had two civil wars since Grindelwald’s war, though. He nodded.
“Alright. So, will he sacrifice Dubois then?”
“Yes.” After a moment, she added: “That is the opinion of my family as well.”
He’d have to trust their opinion, Sirius knew — he wasn’t an expert on French
politics. He sighed. He eyed the glass again, then vanished its contents with
a flick of his wand. “You know, I didn’t want to, didn’t like seducing her. I
still don’t like it.”
politics. He sighed. He eyed the glass again, then vanished its contents with
a flick of his wand. “You know, I didn’t want to, didn’t like seducing her. I
still don’t like it.”
“She’s a ’orrible witch.” Vivienne nodded.
“It’s not that.” He noticed a flicker of doubt, and maybe hurt, on her face,
and took a deep breath. “It felt as if I was cheating on you.” Well, according
to pretty much everyone he could think of, sleeping with another witch was
cheating on your lover.
and took a deep breath. “It felt as if I was cheating on you.” Well, according
to pretty much everyone he could think of, sleeping with another witch was
cheating on your lover.
She didn’t answer right away. And when she did, she wasn’t looking at him. “I
knew what you were doing. What you ’ad to do. It was my idea.”
knew what you were doing. What you ’ad to do. It was my idea.”
He didn’t say anything, just held her closer. He could feel how tense she was.
In a whisper, she went on: “I ’ated it, though. To know you would be in ’er
arms, making love to ’er…” She was clenching her teeth, her whispers gaining a
screeching undertone. “I ’ate her even more because of this!”
arms, making love to ’er…” She was clenching her teeth, her whispers gaining a
screeching undertone. “I ’ate her even more because of this!”
He put his right hand on her thigh, squeezing gently. She was close to
transforming, or so he thought. There were no feathers sprouting yet, though.
He was tempted to change into Padfoot — that usually broke any tension. Or at
least redirected it. But she deserved better than him making light of this. “I
won’t do it again.”
transforming, or so he thought. There were no feathers sprouting yet, though.
He was tempted to change into Padfoot — that usually broke any tension. Or at
least redirected it. But she deserved better than him making light of this. “I
won’t do it again.”
She didn’t answer, but she slid into his lap and held him, and he could feel
how she slowly grew less tense as he rubbed her back.
how she slowly grew less tense as he rubbed her back.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, April 8th, 1997**
Ron Weasley ducked when he entered the twins’ shop, but no rubber chicken
tried to attack him, nor did anything else dreamed up by his brothers hit him
while he stepped through the fast-drying Thief’s Downfall installed at the
entrance.
tried to attack him, nor did anything else dreamed up by his brothers hit him
while he stepped through the fast-drying Thief’s Downfall installed at the
entrance.
“Ah, we trained him well!”
Ron shot the chuckling Fred a glare. “Better safe than sorry.” Growing up with
the twins certainly had taught him that. He glanced around reflexively. To one
side, a customer, a young wizard, was talking with the clerk the twins had
hired. Or trying to flirt with her, Ron couldn’t tell. He kept an eye on them
anyway.
the twins certainly had taught him that. He glanced around reflexively. To one
side, a customer, a young wizard, was talking with the clerk the twins had
hired. Or trying to flirt with her, Ron couldn’t tell. He kept an eye on them
anyway.
“Bah! Where’s the fun in that?” Fred shook his head. ‘Safe!’ He scoffed. “Are
you a Gryffindor or not?”
you a Gryffindor or not?”
“He’s been with Hermione for too long; he’s starting to think like her!”
George, standing in the doorway to the back room, added. “Soon he’ll read real
books instead of Quidditch magazines!”
George, standing in the doorway to the back room, added. “Soon he’ll read real
books instead of Quidditch magazines!”
Ron rolled his eyes. “Very funny.”
Fred grinned. “We do our best. Or worst.”
“Definitely your worst,” Ron said. When his brother opened his mouth again, he
held up his hand. “Let’s go into your workroom.”
held up his hand. “Let’s go into your workroom.”
Fred closed his mouth and nodded, then turned his head and yelled “Clarice!
Take over the counter!”
Take over the counter!”
The witch looked over at them and nodded. “Alright, boss.”
“Is she calling you boss because she can’t tell you apart?” Ron asked as he
followed his brothers to their workroom. “Or are you actually becoming
respectable business owners?”
followed his brothers to their workroom. “Or are you actually becoming
respectable business owners?”
“That was definitely your worst attempt at a joke,” Fred shot back.
“Respectable? Us?” George shook his head.
Then the door closed, and the twins grew more serious. Fred leaned against a
work bench filled with all sorts of knick-knacks and cast a privacy spell.
work bench filled with all sorts of knick-knacks and cast a privacy spell.
“I guess you want to know how far along the ‘Bone Busters’ are,” George said.
Ron nodded. He also hadn’t seen the twins for some time, but that wasn’t
something that he’d admit to anyone.
something that he’d admit to anyone.
“We’re about to finish testing, add a few tweaks, then start production.”
George picked up what looked like a Bludger. ‘And we’ve improved on the
concept.’ He grinned. “This will seek out your enemies, trying to ram them
like a normal Bludger. Just without the Cushioning Charms.” His grin widened.
“It would kill someone if it hit their head.”
George picked up what looked like a Bludger. ‘And we’ve improved on the
concept.’ He grinned. “This will seek out your enemies, trying to ram them
like a normal Bludger. Just without the Cushioning Charms.” His grin widened.
“It would kill someone if it hit their head.”
“And while the target is dodging the Bone Buster — or shielding — it will
release the potion into the air as an almost invisible mist,” Fred added,
looking smug.
release the potion into the air as an almost invisible mist,” Fred added,
looking smug.
Ron nodded. “So… you adapted one of your inventions, and put it into a Bludger
with the safety charms removed.” It was devious. Skeletons and bone walls
wouldn’t try to dodge, and houngans would have to worry about getting smashed
by the things. And should their limbs break, and their bones become exposed…
with the safety charms removed.” It was devious. Skeletons and bone walls
wouldn’t try to dodge, and houngans would have to worry about getting smashed
by the things. And should their limbs break, and their bones become exposed…
Fred pouted. “It wasn’t quite that simple. We had to adapt the spells a lot so
it would only attack enemies.”
it would only attack enemies.”
“And how does that work?” Ron wanted to know. He didn’t want to get hit by one
of them.
of them.
“A charmed pin will keep it away,” Fred said. “The charm can be cast as well,
but a General Counter-Spell would put an end to it.”
but a General Counter-Spell would put an end to it.”
And the Bludger would probably put an end to them soon afterwards, Ron
thought. “We’ll still want to learn the spell too. We might lose a pin, or
there might be other people in the area of effect whom we don’t want to get
hurt.”
thought. “We’ll still want to learn the spell too. We might lose a pin, or
there might be other people in the area of effect whom we don’t want to get
hurt.”
“You can also command it to stop,” George said. “We tweaked those spells too,
though. If someone tries the usual Quidditch spells on them…” He bared his
teeth. “Let’s just say they’ll receive a surprise.”
though. If someone tries the usual Quidditch spells on them…” He bared his
teeth. “Let’s just say they’ll receive a surprise.”
“What kind of surprise?” Ron stared at them. He’d rather not discover what the
thing did in the middle of a battle.
thing did in the middle of a battle.
Fred frowned. “Now you sound like Hermione too. If that’s the result of your
special Resistance training, then I’m glad we didn’t get to go.”
special Resistance training, then I’m glad we didn’t get to go.”
“What does it do?”
“It makes the Bone Buster focus on the caster of the spell,” George answered.
“After slowing down for a moment, to make them think they succeeded.”
“After slowing down for a moment, to make them think they succeeded.”
“Ah.” Ron nodded. He didn’t think that would be very useful, but it was a nice
addition. “Good work. We can definitely use that.”
addition. “Good work. We can definitely use that.”
Fred narrowed his eyes. “So… does that mean you’re planning to fight
houngans?”
houngans?”
“We want to be ready for the next time we encounter Reid or his friends,” Ron
said. “I hope he doesn’t return to Britain, though — we’re still dealing with
Malfoy and Runcorn’s arrests.”
said. “I hope he doesn’t return to Britain, though — we’re still dealing with
Malfoy and Runcorn’s arrests.”
“That shook up the Wizengamot,” Fred remarked with a chuckle. “Their
honourable and generous friend planning to kill them all!”
honourable and generous friend planning to kill them all!”
“Greengrass and Davis revealed that, right?” George asked.
Ron nodded. “Yes. They managed to completely fool Malfoy until after he told
them his plan.” He saw that Fred was glaring at George, who in turn was
frowning at his brother. Ron didn’t know what was going on there, and he
didn’t think he wanted to know.
them his plan.” He saw that Fred was glaring at George, who in turn was
frowning at his brother. Ron didn’t know what was going on there, and he
didn’t think he wanted to know.
---
**Outside Paris, Château d’Orléans, France, April 8th, 1997**
Sirius Black didn’t let any lingering nervousness — he was a Gryffindor; he
wasn’t afraid — show as he stepped out of the fireplace in the entrance hall
of the seat of the Duc d’Orléans. He was an emissary of Wizarding Britain, on
a diplomatic mission officially sanctioned by the Chief Warlock. It would be a
breach of protocol unheard of in recent times should he be detained, or worse.
wasn’t afraid — show as he stepped out of the fireplace in the entrance hall
of the seat of the Duc d’Orléans. He was an emissary of Wizarding Britain, on
a diplomatic mission officially sanctioned by the Chief Warlock. It would be a
breach of protocol unheard of in recent times should he be detained, or worse.
Unheard of, but not entirely impossible, he told himself as he cleaned the
soot from his robes. He glanced briefly at the guards in the hall, then turned
and held out his hand when the fireplace flashed behind him. Vivienne stepped
out and took his hand in hers with practised ease while she smiled at him. Her
mother, Marie, was next, followed by Fleur’s father. Antoine Delacour didn’t
show any sign of his close brush with death four months ago in the catacombs
of the Bastille.
soot from his robes. He glanced briefly at the guards in the hall, then turned
and held out his hand when the fireplace flashed behind him. Vivienne stepped
out and took his hand in hers with practised ease while she smiled at him. Her
mother, Marie, was next, followed by Fleur’s father. Antoine Delacour didn’t
show any sign of his close brush with death four months ago in the catacombs
of the Bastille.
As was customary, the chamberlain waited to greet them until all had removed
the soot from their clothes. “Welcome to the Château d’Orléans,” the elderly
wizard said in French, bowing deeply. “The Duc awaits you in the western
salon.”
the soot from their clothes. “Welcome to the Château d’Orléans,” the elderly
wizard said in French, bowing deeply. “The Duc awaits you in the western
salon.”
They nodded in response and followed the man through a corridor decked out in
marble. Sirius had to restrain himself from glancing at every decorative
pillar or curtain-covered alcove they passed — half an army could be hidden
there. He had yet to release Vivienne’s hand.
marble. Sirius had to restrain himself from glancing at every decorative
pillar or curtain-covered alcove they passed — half an army could be hidden
there. He had yet to release Vivienne’s hand.
The western salon was a rather large room for a private audience — the largest
room in Sirius’s home could have fit twice into it. The windows were covered
with thick curtains. The furniture, though, had been chosen with care for the
meeting, he thought — there were two couches facing a single seat, separated
by a low table. Almost intimate, even, Sirius thought, for a meeting with the
Duc. He couldn’t spot the guards he knew had to be around — probably hidden
behind fake walls and curtains.
room in Sirius’s home could have fit twice into it. The windows were covered
with thick curtains. The furniture, though, had been chosen with care for the
meeting, he thought — there were two couches facing a single seat, separated
by a low table. Almost intimate, even, Sirius thought, for a meeting with the
Duc. He couldn’t spot the guards he knew had to be around — probably hidden
behind fake walls and curtains.
The Duc himself was standing when they entered, dressed in dark robes with
purple trim. He was about ten years older than Sirius, tall and slim, and with
an immaculate mustache and goatee — much like Sirius’s own style. And, judging
by the Duc’s faint smirk, he had not missed the resemblance.
purple trim. He was about ten years older than Sirius, tall and slim, and with
an immaculate mustache and goatee — much like Sirius’s own style. And, judging
by the Duc’s faint smirk, he had not missed the resemblance.
“Welcome, Marie, Antoine, Mademoiselle d’Aigle, Monsieur Black.” The Duc
inclined his head in greeting. Apparently, Sirius didn’t need an introduction.
inclined his head in greeting. Apparently, Sirius didn’t need an introduction.
In response, everyone in his group bowed deeply.
“Please sit down.” The Duc gestured at the two couches.
A house-elf brought some refreshments as they took their seats. The little
creature had stepped out from behind one of the curtains, and Sirius made a
mental note of the location — there would be a passage for the elves behind
there. In a pinch, Padfoot could fit through one as well.
creature had stepped out from behind one of the curtains, and Sirius made a
mental note of the location — there would be a passage for the elves behind
there. In a pinch, Padfoot could fit through one as well.
Marie and Antoine made some idle chat while the elf served wine — a good
vintage, Sirius noted. He refrained from testing for poison; if the Duc wanted
to harm him he’d have too many other opportunities, and without breaking
protocol.
vintage, Sirius noted. He refrained from testing for poison; if the Duc wanted
to harm him he’d have too many other opportunities, and without breaking
protocol.
“You asked for a private meeting,” the Duc finally said. “With a foreign
envoy.” He glanced at Sirius as he spoke, but addressed Marie and Antoine.
envoy.” He glanced at Sirius as he spoke, but addressed Marie and Antoine.
“Yes, we did. Sirius has informed us of a grave matter which could have a
severe impact on relations between France and Britain.” Marie nodded at
Sirius.
severe impact on relations between France and Britain.” Marie nodded at
Sirius.
The Duc raised an eyebrow, though Sirius couldn’t tell if the man was
surprised at the quick deflection or not. He cleared his throat. “Indeed,
Monsieur le duc. You might be aware that there have recently been several
attacks against civilians in Wizarding Britain.” The Duc nodded, and Sirius
went on. “We have discovered that those attacks were instigated by a member of
your court, in an attempt to destabilise my country.”
surprised at the quick deflection or not. He cleared his throat. “Indeed,
Monsieur le duc. You might be aware that there have recently been several
attacks against civilians in Wizarding Britain.” The Duc nodded, and Sirius
went on. “We have discovered that those attacks were instigated by a member of
your court, in an attempt to destabilise my country.”
The Duc took a short, hissing breath, but didn’t show any other reaction. “I
assume you speak of Isabelle Dubois.”
assume you speak of Isabelle Dubois.”
“Yes.”
“And you have taken her into your custody.”
“Not officially,” Sirius clarified.
“Ah.” The Duc slowly nodded. “Not yet, you mean.” He looked at Marie and
Antoine.
Antoine.
Vivienne’s mother nodded. “We thought it best that this delicate situation be
resolved with some discretion.”
resolved with some discretion.”
“Otherwise Isabelle’s actions could have grave consequences, given the
volatile situation in Britain,” Antoine added.
volatile situation in Britain,” Antoine added.
“Isabelle was kidnapped by her current lover — an American in exile, or
rather, a man posing as an American in exile.” The Duc was staring at Sirius,
and his tone left no doubt that he knew who had been posing as Isabelle’s
lover. “Such an act might have grave consequences. The French do not suffer
foreigners kidnapping members of the Court.”
rather, a man posing as an American in exile.” The Duc was staring at Sirius,
and his tone left no doubt that he knew who had been posing as Isabelle’s
lover. “Such an act might have grave consequences. The French do not suffer
foreigners kidnapping members of the Court.”
He hadn’t denied the accusations against Dubois, Sirius noticed. He shrugged.
“She brought it on herself. If she hadn’t been trying to plunge Britain into
another civil war, she wouldn’t have been taken into custody.” He leaned
forward. “And should her plans for the French muggleborns be revealed, I
gather that a great deal of violent unrest might result here in France.”
“She brought it on herself. If she hadn’t been trying to plunge Britain into
another civil war, she wouldn’t have been taken into custody.” He leaned
forward. “And should her plans for the French muggleborns be revealed, I
gather that a great deal of violent unrest might result here in France.”
He saw the Duc’s eyes widen in apparent surprise at that. Either he hadn’t
known about that or he was an excellent actor. “What plans?”
known about that or he was an excellent actor. “What plans?”
“She planned to murder the best and brightest of the French muggleborns, to
curb a hypothetical rebellion before it could start,” Sirius explained. With a
feral grin, he added: “Should this become known I fear that it would cause the
very rebellion she feared.”
curb a hypothetical rebellion before it could start,” Sirius explained. With a
feral grin, he added: “Should this become known I fear that it would cause the
very rebellion she feared.”
The Duc had been clenching his teeth while Sirius had been speaking. “Others
might take that threat as proof that Isabelle’s apparent fears were not
groundless.”
might take that threat as proof that Isabelle’s apparent fears were not
groundless.”
Sirius leaned forward. “Which fears? That the French muggleborns might demand
equal rights? And an end to discrimination? And that they might look to
Britain for support?”
equal rights? And an end to discrimination? And that they might look to
Britain for support?”
“Yes.”
He scoffed. “We just fought a bloody war — the second war in less than twenty
years. We have no desire for another one.”
years. We have no desire for another one.”
“Some might think that currently you’re simply too weak to fight another war.”
The Duc was focused on Sirius.
The Duc was focused on Sirius.
“They would be wrong. Dead wrong.” Sirius met the man’s eyes and bared his
teeth. ‘The Ministry’s losses were terrible. The Death Eaters and their
supporters were all but wiped out. But the Order of the Phoenix and the
Muggleborn Resistance? We’re actually stronger than before.’ It wasn’t quite
true — while the Muggleborn Resistance had recruited more than they had lost,
the new members were not yet trained to the level of the veterans and the
Order hadn’t replaced its losses. But Sirius had no doubt that should it come
to war with France, recruiting more Order members would be far easier than
recruiting more Aurors. “Any country so foolish as to attack us would find out
very quickly that we’re ready for war.”
teeth. ‘The Ministry’s losses were terrible. The Death Eaters and their
supporters were all but wiped out. But the Order of the Phoenix and the
Muggleborn Resistance? We’re actually stronger than before.’ It wasn’t quite
true — while the Muggleborn Resistance had recruited more than they had lost,
the new members were not yet trained to the level of the veterans and the
Order hadn’t replaced its losses. But Sirius had no doubt that should it come
to war with France, recruiting more Order members would be far easier than
recruiting more Aurors. “Any country so foolish as to attack us would find out
very quickly that we’re ready for war.”
“A muggleborn-ruled Britain would be facing the entirety of Europe united
against them.”
against them.”
He snorted. “And do you think the European muggleborns will sit out such a
conflict? They flocked to Grindelwald in the past and he was the aggressor.
Should Europe go to war for pureblood supremacy, the muggleborns will rise and
you’ll find yourself besieged by your own people. People who will have learned
from the Resistance’s example.”
conflict? They flocked to Grindelwald in the past and he was the aggressor.
Should Europe go to war for pureblood supremacy, the muggleborns will rise and
you’ll find yourself besieged by your own people. People who will have learned
from the Resistance’s example.”
“So you have plans, then.” The Duc’s face was no longer expressionless; he was
baring his own teeth now, his anger plain to see.
baring his own teeth now, his anger plain to see.
“Of course we have plans — we’d be fools not to be prepared for that — but we
have no intention of starting a war.” Sirius shook his head. ‘We know how
terrible it is, and we do not wish it on anyone.’ Not on anyone sensible, at
least. “We went to war because the Death Eaters wanted to oppress and murder
all muggleborns.” And if anyone else tried the same, they’d go to war again —
covertly, or overtly. He lowered his voice. “Stop trying to meddle in Britain,
don’t murder your own muggleborns and there’ll be no war, and no scandal.”
have no intention of starting a war.” Sirius shook his head. ‘We know how
terrible it is, and we do not wish it on anyone.’ Not on anyone sensible, at
least. “We went to war because the Death Eaters wanted to oppress and murder
all muggleborns.” And if anyone else tried the same, they’d go to war again —
covertly, or overtly. He lowered his voice. “Stop trying to meddle in Britain,
don’t murder your own muggleborns and there’ll be no war, and no scandal.”
“I cannot ignore Isabelle’s kidnapping. She has too many friends at Court.”
Marie put down her own glass, a slight sneer appearing on her face. “No one
would be surprised if her plots and affairs caught up with her. A scorned
lover hiring an assassin to take revenge on her would be plausible enough to
deflect suspicion away from us.”
would be surprised if her plots and affairs caught up with her. A scorned
lover hiring an assassin to take revenge on her would be plausible enough to
deflect suspicion away from us.”
The Duc turned towards the Veela. “And you would arrange that?”
“Not directly,” she answered, tilting her head slightly.
“A few words to the correct people, a few hints at what danger Isabelle has
been courting with her foolish course of action…” Antoine spread his hands,
the large ring on his hand catching the light from the chandelier. “She has
overstepped her bounds, assumed she was acting with support you never gave
her. A lesson others would do well to learn as well.”
been courting with her foolish course of action…” Antoine spread his hands,
the large ring on his hand catching the light from the chandelier. “She has
overstepped her bounds, assumed she was acting with support you never gave
her. A lesson others would do well to learn as well.”
The Duc looked from the Veela to the wizard and back, then glanced at Sirius.
“Are you trying to push me into following his example?”
“Are you trying to push me into following his example?”
His tone had changed, and he had grown rigid, Sirius thought. He saw the two
French nobles stiffen as well.
French nobles stiffen as well.
“We’re not the ones who tried to create a fait accompli and drag France into a
war no one wanted but them,” Antoine said. ‘We’re not the ones who tried to
hide their actions from you, assuming you would condone them after the fact —
when you’d have no other choice.’ He shook his head. “You know me, us, better
than that, Louis.”
war no one wanted but them,” Antoine said. ‘We’re not the ones who tried to
hide their actions from you, assuming you would condone them after the fact —
when you’d have no other choice.’ He shook his head. “You know me, us, better
than that, Louis.”
“I thought I knew Isabelle better than that as well,” the Duc retorted, and
Sirius couldn’t help but think that the Duc wasn’t entirely convinced of
Dubois’s guilt.
Sirius couldn’t help but think that the Duc wasn’t entirely convinced of
Dubois’s guilt.
He felt Vivienne, who hadn’t said anything yet, tense up. “We have a memory of
her confession, Monsieur le duc.”
her confession, Monsieur le duc.”
The leader of Magical France glanced at her and Sirius, then shook his head.
“She was, according to your own words, acting out of fear of a muggleborn
rebellion. And you are using the same threat in an attempt to dictate policy
to me — while working with a foreigner allied to muggleborns.”
“She was, according to your own words, acting out of fear of a muggleborn
rebellion. And you are using the same threat in an attempt to dictate policy
to me — while working with a foreigner allied to muggleborns.”
“Dubois was working with foreigners as well — with purebloods willing to
murder the entire Wizengamot, the heads of all the Old Families, to further
their own goals.” Sirius smiled thinly. “Purebloods who still follow the
orders of the Dark Lord — the foreigner who dared to lay a trap in the
Bastille and corrupt your people. Neither I nor my allies have done anything
against France.”
murder the entire Wizengamot, the heads of all the Old Families, to further
their own goals.” Sirius smiled thinly. “Purebloods who still follow the
orders of the Dark Lord — the foreigner who dared to lay a trap in the
Bastille and corrupt your people. Neither I nor my allies have done anything
against France.”
“You kidnapped a member of my court.”
“In response to her orchestrating attacks on my country.” Sirius glared at the
Duc.
Duc.
“What is more important, the fate of a witch, or the fate of our country?”
Antoine cut in. “We are on the brink of war — a situation Dubois brought upon
us. Supporting her means condoning her actions against Britain.”
Antoine cut in. “We are on the brink of war — a situation Dubois brought upon
us. Supporting her means condoning her actions against Britain.”
The Duc pressed his lips together for a moment, before he answered. “I do not
condone her actions, and I do not wish to go to war.” Sirius clenched his
teeth and squeezed Vivienne’s hand. “But neither do I wish to let foreigners
dictate to me how I rule my country. Or members of my court. France’s internal
affairs are no one else’s concern.”
condone her actions, and I do not wish to go to war.” Sirius clenched his
teeth and squeezed Vivienne’s hand. “But neither do I wish to let foreigners
dictate to me how I rule my country. Or members of my court. France’s internal
affairs are no one else’s concern.”
“The muggleborns disagree,” Sirius said. He ignored the glances from Marie and
Antoine. “There are lines that, if crossed, will cause them to react. During
the time of Grindelwald’s War, the muggles fought a great war as well.”
Antoine. “There are lines that, if crossed, will cause them to react. During
the time of Grindelwald’s War, the muggles fought a great war as well.”
“I’m aware of that. Muggle France fell to the Prussians. Some took it as an
omen of things to come when facing Grindelwald’s army.” The Duc sneered. “They
were proven wrong.”
omen of things to come when facing Grindelwald’s army.” The Duc sneered. “They
were proven wrong.”
“The British and French muggles fought a regime of criminals who murdered
millions of people for no other reason than their blood,” Sirius went on.
“Ever since then, muggles have considered similar actions to be a crime so
severe it merits an intervention by the international community.”
millions of people for no other reason than their blood,” Sirius went on.
“Ever since then, muggles have considered similar actions to be a crime so
severe it merits an intervention by the international community.”
“What do you wish to say?”
“I’m saying that should you start murdering your muggleborns, the British
muggleborns will consider you a criminal of the worst sort. And they wouldn’t
be the only ones in Europe,” Sirius explained.
muggleborns will consider you a criminal of the worst sort. And they wouldn’t
be the only ones in Europe,” Sirius explained.
“You threaten me with war, then, should I not bow to muggleborns?”
Sirius wanted to tell the Duc that that was exactly what he was doing, but
Antoine spoke up before he lost his temper. “He’s warning us that mass murder
is not the solution. It didn’t work for the British, and it will not work for
us. Quite the contrary.”
Antoine spoke up before he lost his temper. “He’s warning us that mass murder
is not the solution. It didn’t work for the British, and it will not work for
us. Quite the contrary.”
“Appeasement didn’t work for the British either,” the Duc retorted.
“No amount of appeasement other than unconditional surrender would have
satisfied the Dark Lord,” Sirius said. ‘The muggleborns, by and large, simply
want the same rights as purebloods.’ Which implied democracy, but he didn’t
want to open that can of Flobberworms. “Why do you think that Dumbledore
pushed for muggleborn rights in Britain after he had defeated Grindelwald? He
knew that that was the only way to avoid another war.”
satisfied the Dark Lord,” Sirius said. ‘The muggleborns, by and large, simply
want the same rights as purebloods.’ Which implied democracy, but he didn’t
want to open that can of Flobberworms. “Why do you think that Dumbledore
pushed for muggleborn rights in Britain after he had defeated Grindelwald? He
knew that that was the only way to avoid another war.”
“And yet Britain suffered two Blood Wars, whereas France has remained at
peace.”
peace.”
“Those wars were the result of the Dark Lord’s desire to take over Britain.
The muggleborns were just a convenient scapegoat. If circumstances had been
different he would have followed Grindelwald’s example and recruited
muggleborns.” Sirius had his doubts — Voldemort must have known that such a
course of action could have brought most of Europe down on his head.
The muggleborns were just a convenient scapegoat. If circumstances had been
different he would have followed Grindelwald’s example and recruited
muggleborns.” Sirius had his doubts — Voldemort must have known that such a
course of action could have brought most of Europe down on his head.
“You demand that France stays out of your internal affairs, yet do not offer
the same courtesy.” The Duc glared at him.
the same courtesy.” The Duc glared at him.
“Our courtesy ends where mass murder begins.” Sirius met the Duc’s eyes
without flinching.
without flinching.
“No one is planning such a crime,” Marie cut in. “No one but Dubois, at
least.”
least.”
“The purpose of this meeting was to defuse the crisis Dubois created. I think
we are all in agreement that war has to be avoided, and that Dubois’s actions
are not supported by France.” Antoine smiled. “We are also now aware of the
views of the future government of Britain as far as muggleborns are concerned,
which will have to be considered by the Duc.”
we are all in agreement that war has to be avoided, and that Dubois’s actions
are not supported by France.” Antoine smiled. “We are also now aware of the
views of the future government of Britain as far as muggleborns are concerned,
which will have to be considered by the Duc.”
“Indeed,” Marie added, “we can deal with the other issues at a later date.”
Sirius nodded. The main goal was to avoid a war right now. “If you stop your
people from stirring up trouble in Britain in the future we’ll consider
Dubois’s actions unsanctioned by France and let you handle the matter
discreetly.”
people from stirring up trouble in Britain in the future we’ll consider
Dubois’s actions unsanctioned by France and let you handle the matter
discreetly.”
The Duc scowled, but nodded slowly. “I can agree to that.”
Sirius smiled as they shook hands, but he had a feeling that the Duc wasn’t
entirely convinced that he couldn’t mess with Britain in the future. Or that
he couldn’t oppress the French muggleborns.
entirely convinced that he couldn’t mess with Britain in the future. Or that
he couldn’t oppress the French muggleborns.
He wasn’t too worried, though — they could do something about that once they
had handled the current crisis and taken over Britain.
had handled the current crisis and taken over Britain.
---
**Near Spanish Town, Jamaica, April 8th, 1997**
Augustus Rookwood, sitting in the living room of his tent, watched his captive
stir on the carpet. The poison he had used had finally been metabolised enough
for her to regain consciousness. If only he had had more of the antidote left,
to speed up the process… He shook his head. Such thoughts did nothing but
distract him. He had to focus on the task at hand.
stir on the carpet. The poison he had used had finally been metabolised enough
for her to regain consciousness. If only he had had more of the antidote left,
to speed up the process… He shook his head. Such thoughts did nothing but
distract him. He had to focus on the task at hand.
The mambo opened her eyes and blinked rapidly. She would still have trouble
focusing her gaze, he knew. She tugged against the bonds that held her, but
not for long — she knew that she wouldn’t be able to break them.
focusing her gaze, he knew. She tugged against the bonds that held her, but
not for long — she knew that she wouldn’t be able to break them.
“Good evening, Madam.” He smirked at her expression. If not for the gag, she’d
be swearing at him. “I have a few questions for you.” He pulled out his vial
of Veritaserum. Her eyes widened, then hardened — that wasn’t the reaction he
had expected.
be swearing at him. “I have a few questions for you.” He pulled out his vial
of Veritaserum. Her eyes widened, then hardened — that wasn’t the reaction he
had expected.
Frowning, he cast a full Body-Bind Curse, then vanished the gag in her mouth.
But then he hesitated as he was about to let three drops fall into her open
mouth, still thinking of her curious reaction. What if she had taken
precautions to prevent the use of Veritaserum? Something that reacted with the
potion to kill her? He had heard of such projects when he had been working at
the Department.
But then he hesitated as he was about to let three drops fall into her open
mouth, still thinking of her curious reaction. What if she had taken
precautions to prevent the use of Veritaserum? Something that reacted with the
potion to kill her? He had heard of such projects when he had been working at
the Department.
Sighing, he stashed the vial again — and watched her eyes track it. Was that
relief, or regret? With her face frozen, it was hard to tell. No matter, there
were alternatives. He pointed his wand at her.
relief, or regret? With her face frozen, it was hard to tell. No matter, there
were alternatives. He pointed his wand at her.
“Imperio!”
Paralysed, she showed no sign of struggling, other than a glint in her eyes
that might have been his imagination. But when he ended the Body-Bind Curse,
she didn’t do anything except stare at the ground — as victims of his curse
were wont to do without orders.
that might have been his imagination. But when he ended the Body-Bind Curse,
she didn’t do anything except stare at the ground — as victims of his curse
were wont to do without orders.
“Tell me your name.”
“Ezola Grant.”
“Tell me the truth. Are you a member of the island’s ruling council?”
“Yes.”
So he had the right kind of witch. He allowed himself to smile, before
continuing the interrogation. “Did you expect me to attack you?”
continuing the interrogation. “Did you expect me to attack you?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“Ricky had disappeared.”
The thug’s death had not gone unnoticed. Augustus had been sloppy. “Who else
knew about this?”
knew about this?”
“My apprentices.”
“How many did you have?”
“Two.”
Which meant one was left. “Can the surviving apprentice track you?”
“No.”
That was good news. “Can anyone else track you?”
“No.”
Even better, though he had expected that — what kind of wizard or witch would
allow others to gain the power to track them? That clause in his contract had
been the worst drawback to becoming an Unspeakable. That left another
weakness, though. “Can you track the skulls of the Library of Souls?”
allow others to gain the power to track them? That clause in his contract had
been the worst drawback to becoming an Unspeakable. That left another
weakness, though. “Can you track the skulls of the Library of Souls?”
“Yes.”
He hissed with sudden fear. “How?”
She started to explain the spell — the ritual. Sacrifices, duration, range…
why hadn’t they found him? A few dead muggles would cover the entire island.
“Did you search the island already?”
why hadn’t they found him? A few dead muggles would cover the entire island.
“Did you search the island already?”
“Yes.”
“When?”
“When we discovered that a skull was missing, and after the attack on
Williams.”
Williams.”
He blinked. He hadn’t left the island after that attack, so… Of course! The
Dark Lord would have taken steps to prevent the houngans from finding the
skull he had taken from them. He sighed with relief. “Are you cooperating with
the British?”
Dark Lord would have taken steps to prevent the houngans from finding the
skull he had taken from them. He sighed with relief. “Are you cooperating with
the British?”
“No.”
“Will you let them on the island?”
“No.”
He relaxed. The Department could track him — but not from Britain. He was
safe. Relatively, at least.
safe. Relatively, at least.
“Tell me all you know about the Library of Souls.”
---
Augustus leaned back in his seat and took a deep breath. The thug ‘Ricky’ had
been surprisingly resistant to interrogation, but his current captive was
worse. Trying to break into her mind left him feeling as if he had headbutted
a stone wall.
been surprisingly resistant to interrogation, but his current captive was
worse. Trying to break into her mind left him feeling as if he had headbutted
a stone wall.
But he had no choice — the information she had been forced to reveal while
under his spell had been spotty and purely verbal. If he had access to a
Pensieve, he could have forced her to donate her memories, but as things were…
if he wanted to study the layout and defences of the Library of Souls before
actually venturing there, he needed to see it in her memories. He couldn’t
even potion her to reduce her wits, since that would render her memory
unreliable. And ordering her to open her mind hadn’t worked.
under his spell had been spotty and purely verbal. If he had access to a
Pensieve, he could have forced her to donate her memories, but as things were…
if he wanted to study the layout and defences of the Library of Souls before
actually venturing there, he needed to see it in her memories. He couldn’t
even potion her to reduce her wits, since that would render her memory
unreliable. And ordering her to open her mind hadn’t worked.
So he was forced to match his mind against hers as he tried to overpower her
defences. A thoroughly exhausting and painful process — he hadn’t suffered
such a headache since his own Occlumency training.
defences. A thoroughly exhausting and painful process — he hadn’t suffered
such a headache since his own Occlumency training.
He shifted in his seat, reaching for the cup of tea he had prepared in
advance. Taking a sip from it, he glanced at the skull resting on a low table
nearby. If only he had the time to study the skull properly — one of the
enchantments on it had to have been added by the Dark Lord to prevent the
houngans from tracking it. If he could analyse it, he might be able to counter
the hold the Department had over him.
advance. Taking a sip from it, he glanced at the skull resting on a low table
nearby. If only he had the time to study the skull properly — one of the
enchantments on it had to have been added by the Dark Lord to prevent the
houngans from tracking it. If he could analyse it, he might be able to counter
the hold the Department had over him.
He might not even need to find a cure for the Withering Curse to be safe… He
shook his head. He had already come too far to give up now. And he didn’t want
to spend the rest of his life in hiding; he wanted a pardon.
shook his head. He had already come too far to give up now. And he didn’t want
to spend the rest of his life in hiding; he wanted a pardon.
And he wanted the knowledge from the Library of Souls.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 9th, 1997**
“Jamaica has accused us of attacking another of their houngans?” Amelia Bones
frowned as she dropped the most recent missive from the ICW on her desk and
looked at Fawley. “Do they offer any proof for their accusations?”
frowned as she dropped the most recent missive from the ICW on her desk and
looked at Fawley. “Do they offer any proof for their accusations?”
Britain’s delegate at the ICW shook his head. “No, Madam, they haven’t. All
they are claiming is that since another houngan has been attacked in her
manor, it has to be the work of the same culprit as the earlier attack. They
have not offered any detailed description of the attack either.”
they are claiming is that since another houngan has been attacked in her
manor, it has to be the work of the same culprit as the earlier attack. They
have not offered any detailed description of the attack either.”
“Which means it wasn’t done with muggle explosives.” Amelia shook her head.
“It doesn’t mean the culprit wasn’t the same, of course. But I wouldn’t put it
past the houngans to settle some rivalries and blame us.”
“It doesn’t mean the culprit wasn’t the same, of course. But I wouldn’t put it
past the houngans to settle some rivalries and blame us.”
Fawley nodded, then cleared his throat. “Ah… do we know who was behind the
attacks?”
attacks?”
She was certain it was Rookwood, but she had no proof a court would accept.
And she didn’t trust Fawley not to leak the information to others. So she
shook her head. “There’s only conjuncture, nothing solid.”
And she didn’t trust Fawley not to leak the information to others. So she
shook her head. “There’s only conjuncture, nothing solid.”
He remained silent for a moment, before speaking up again: “What about the
muggleborns? Could they be behind the attacks?”
muggleborns? Could they be behind the attacks?”
Amelia wouldn’t put such an operation beyond the Resistance’s capabilities,
but she doubted that they’d be able to launch such attacks without their
leader, and Granger hadn’t left Britain long enough to lead such a mission.
And if Fawley spread such rumours, Britain’s trouble with a number of foreign
countries would grow much, much worse. So she shook his head. “No. All the
muggleborn suspects able to do such a thing are accounted for.”
but she doubted that they’d be able to launch such attacks without their
leader, and Granger hadn’t left Britain long enough to lead such a mission.
And if Fawley spread such rumours, Britain’s trouble with a number of foreign
countries would grow much, much worse. So she shook his head. “No. All the
muggleborn suspects able to do such a thing are accounted for.”
“Oh.” The wizard sounded disappointed. “I’ve been told — in private, of course
— that a number of countries approved of our efforts to continue Dumbledore’s
policy towards Jamaica.”
— that a number of countries approved of our efforts to continue Dumbledore’s
policy towards Jamaica.”
Of course they would. For decades, Dumbledore had been the reason Jamaica had
been playing nice with its neighbours. “We haven’t, so far, changed that
policy. You can tell them that. But don’t claim that we are behind these
attacks.”
been playing nice with its neighbours. “We haven’t, so far, changed that
policy. You can tell them that. But don’t claim that we are behind these
attacks.”
Once the wizard had left, she closed her eyes and leaned back in her seat.
Rookwood was still working on getting a cure for the Withering Curse, she was
certain. A cure that would cost a pardon for one of the worst murderers she
knew. The same sort of pardon another mass murderer had received thanks to
Dumbledore’s influence.
Rookwood was still working on getting a cure for the Withering Curse, she was
certain. A cure that would cost a pardon for one of the worst murderers she
knew. The same sort of pardon another mass murderer had received thanks to
Dumbledore’s influence.
She shook her head. She would be damned if she let a Death Eater escape.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 11th, 1997**
“The chair recognises Mister Avery.”
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! While the accusations leveled against
Augustus Malfoy and Philius Runcorn are shocking — although we have yet to see
and judge for ourselves the evidence for said accusations — it would be a
grave mistake to condemn all of the goals the two stood for in reaction. If
the worst of dark wizards thinks children shouldn’t be hurt, does that mean
such a sentiment is wrong just because he shares it? No! I say our traditions
are not tainted by a desperate man’s folly…”
Augustus Malfoy and Philius Runcorn are shocking — although we have yet to see
and judge for ourselves the evidence for said accusations — it would be a
grave mistake to condemn all of the goals the two stood for in reaction. If
the worst of dark wizards thinks children shouldn’t be hurt, does that mean
such a sentiment is wrong just because he shares it? No! I say our traditions
are not tainted by a desperate man’s folly…”
Hermione Granger rolled her eyes as she listened to Avery’s doomed attempts to
stop the Wizengamot from burying the bigots’ agenda. Since the majority of the
Wizengamot members cared about themselves first, their families second, and
the rest of Wizarding Britain a distant third, they had taken Malfoy’s plans
personally. Very personally. Who would have thought that the very reason the
Wizengamot was so corrupt and easily misled would turn out to provide the
impetus for the last push needed to reform it?
stop the Wizengamot from burying the bigots’ agenda. Since the majority of the
Wizengamot members cared about themselves first, their families second, and
the rest of Wizarding Britain a distant third, they had taken Malfoy’s plans
personally. Very personally. Who would have thought that the very reason the
Wizengamot was so corrupt and easily misled would turn out to provide the
impetus for the last push needed to reform it?
“What an idiot,” she heard Ron whisper next to her. ‘I’ve got a mind to hex
him.’ She glanced at him, and he grinned. “Just joking.”
him.’ She glanced at him, and he grinned. “Just joking.”
She scowled. This was serious. They were about to make history! She was about
to point that out to him when he touched her thigh.
to point that out to him when he touched her thigh.
“Relax. You heard Sirius and Doge — it’s a done deal. This is just posturing.”
She sighed and nodded, putting her hand on his. They were so close, though,
and she longed to shut the idiot up. She wasn’t the only one — other members
were jeering and shouting, and even waving their wands. No one hexed him,
though — that wasn’t done.
and she longed to shut the idiot up. She wasn’t the only one — other members
were jeering and shouting, and even waving their wands. No one hexed him,
though — that wasn’t done.
Finally, Avery sat down again, head held high, but teeth grinding, and Sirius
raised his wand.
raised his wand.
“The chair recognises Mister Black.”
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! You have heard what Mister Avery said.
Even faced with proof of how corrupt his ideology is, he cannot bear the
truth. And why is that? Because he’s afraid. Afraid of muggleborns. Afraid of
losing his position. Afraid of any change at all.
Even faced with proof of how corrupt his ideology is, he cannot bear the
truth. And why is that? Because he’s afraid. Afraid of muggleborns. Afraid of
losing his position. Afraid of any change at all.
“But Britain needs to change. The current system is not working. A country
where the majority of the people have no voice in government is a doomed
country. Why should people listen to a government that doesn’t listen to them?
To a Wizengamot that excludes them?
where the majority of the people have no voice in government is a doomed
country. Why should people listen to a government that doesn’t listen to them?
To a Wizengamot that excludes them?
“It’s not as if the Wizengamot has proven to be particularly wise. The
Muggleborn Laws were passed despite Dumbledore arguing against them — a
mistake caused by fear. And we all know the results of those laws. War and
death.
Muggleborn Laws were passed despite Dumbledore arguing against them — a
mistake caused by fear. And we all know the results of those laws. War and
death.
“We cannot allow this to happen again! No longer can we let a few families
have the power to decide our country’s fate! If Britain is to prosper, we need
everyone working together — and that requires everyone to have a stake in the
country.
have the power to decide our country’s fate! If Britain is to prosper, we need
everyone working together — and that requires everyone to have a stake in the
country.
“The proposed changes to the Wizengamot in the Reform Act will achieve this.
Instead of representing themselves and their families, members will represent
far more people — people whose support is shown by their votes.
Instead of representing themselves and their families, members will represent
far more people — people whose support is shown by their votes.
“Some claim this is ‘muggle nonsense’. Something against all our traditions.
To those I say: That is a lie. For what I propose — elections — are how we
have chosen the Minister for Magic for centuries. Like the Wizengamot elects a
minister, the people will elect the Wizengamot.”
To those I say: That is a lie. For what I propose — elections — are how we
have chosen the Minister for Magic for centuries. Like the Wizengamot elects a
minister, the people will elect the Wizengamot.”
Hermione rolled her eyes again when she saw how that rather absurd argument
was actually swaying some of the more conservative members. But as long as the
needed majority was gained, she wouldn’t complain. She raised her wand as
well.
was actually swaying some of the more conservative members. But as long as the
needed majority was gained, she wouldn’t complain. She raised her wand as
well.
“The chair recognises Madam Granger.”
“Honoured members of the Wizengamot! I fully support my esteemed colleague’s
proposal!” She had written most of it, after all. Judging by some grins,
people knew it as well. ‘And I dare say that every muggleborn supports, no,
expects and demands, it as well. Muggleborns, half-bloods, purebloods — we all
fought for our country during the war. And yet people would claim that we have
fewer rights than the Old Families? We bled and died the same as them, as
everyone who fought in the war will know.’ That should make the others realise
that there was more at stake than old privileges. “Hogwarts, the oldest and
finest School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, has been open to any student no
matter their blood ever since it was founded. All of us were students there.
By what right should we then be treated as lesser once we graduate? It is past
time to right this wrong, before we are dragged into another war. I ask every
one of you to vote for the Reform Act.”
proposal!” She had written most of it, after all. Judging by some grins,
people knew it as well. ‘And I dare say that every muggleborn supports, no,
expects and demands, it as well. Muggleborns, half-bloods, purebloods — we all
fought for our country during the war. And yet people would claim that we have
fewer rights than the Old Families? We bled and died the same as them, as
everyone who fought in the war will know.’ That should make the others realise
that there was more at stake than old privileges. “Hogwarts, the oldest and
finest School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, has been open to any student no
matter their blood ever since it was founded. All of us were students there.
By what right should we then be treated as lesser once we graduate? It is past
time to right this wrong, before we are dragged into another war. I ask every
one of you to vote for the Reform Act.”
She sat down again. A few of the Wizengamot members were staring at her with
blatant fear. Others — fewer — scowled. She didn’t care, as long as they won
the vote.
blatant fear. Others — fewer — scowled. She didn’t care, as long as they won
the vote.
“The chair recognises Madam Myerscough.”
Another witch rose, middle-aged. Hermione tuned her out as soon as it was
clear that she supported the Reform Act. She hoped that there wouldn’t be too
many other speakers until the vote.
clear that she supported the Reform Act. She hoped that there wouldn’t be too
many other speakers until the vote.
---
“The ayes have it. Mister Black’s proposal, the Reform Act, has been passed.”
Hermione wasn’t the only one who cheered at the results. She shot up from her
seat, her fists balled in triumph, and turned to hug Ron. They had done it.
The first general election in the history of Wizarding Britain would be held
on August 1st, 1997.
seat, her fists balled in triumph, and turned to hug Ron. They had done it.
The first general election in the history of Wizarding Britain would be held
on August 1st, 1997.
Plenty of time to plan a visit to Jamaica and handle the houngan problem.
Chapter 62: Gearing Up
======================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 62: Gearing Up**
‘*The main reason why the houngans were so feared by European and American
wizards was their particular brand of magic — their ability to strike victims
with a curse from afar, without the need to see their targets. Shields and
cover did not protect against the houngans’ sympathetic magic, and tales of
wizards found dead in their bedrooms, their wards untouched and the doors
still locked, were widespread. The fact that Jamaica successfully rebelled
against Wizarding Britain and repelled several invasions in the following
decades is often attributed to the sheer terror wrought by such warfare,
helped along by a carefully cultivated image of houngans as masters of the
darkest arts — not unlike the Dark Lord himself. As a result, the island
dominated its neighbours for centuries, going as far as kidnapping magical
children from other shores to raise as their own. It took Dumbledore visiting
the island in 1957 and personally killing some of the most infamous houngans
without suffering a curse in return to curb such excesses. Many wizards and
witches therefore feared the worst when Dumbledore died — particularly given
Jamaican claims that he had succumbed to a houngan curse.’*
wizards was their particular brand of magic — their ability to strike victims
with a curse from afar, without the need to see their targets. Shields and
cover did not protect against the houngans’ sympathetic magic, and tales of
wizards found dead in their bedrooms, their wards untouched and the doors
still locked, were widespread. The fact that Jamaica successfully rebelled
against Wizarding Britain and repelled several invasions in the following
decades is often attributed to the sheer terror wrought by such warfare,
helped along by a carefully cultivated image of houngans as masters of the
darkest arts — not unlike the Dark Lord himself. As a result, the island
dominated its neighbours for centuries, going as far as kidnapping magical
children from other shores to raise as their own. It took Dumbledore visiting
the island in 1957 and personally killing some of the most infamous houngans
without suffering a curse in return to curb such excesses. Many wizards and
witches therefore feared the worst when Dumbledore died — particularly given
Jamaican claims that he had succumbed to a houngan curse.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 11th, 1997**
“You want us to invade Jamaica?”
Harry Potter wouldn’t have put it like that, but his first thought upon
hearing Hermione’s plan was quite similar to Ron’s outburst.
hearing Hermione’s plan was quite similar to Ron’s outburst.
The witch in question pursed her lips. “It won’t be an invasion. At worst, it
could be called a raid. We’ll enter the country, find Rookwood, capture or
kill him and secure the skull the houngans want. Then we either trade it for a
cure for the Withering Curse, or use it to find that cure ourselves.”
could be called a raid. We’ll enter the country, find Rookwood, capture or
kill him and secure the skull the houngans want. Then we either trade it for a
cure for the Withering Curse, or use it to find that cure ourselves.”
“I’m not certain that the houngans will appreciate the difference,” Harry
said. “Or if they can even see it.”
said. “Or if they can even see it.”
“And who exactly would take part in this ‘raid’?” Ron asked.
“All of us here,” Hermione’s gesture encompassed the three of them, Sirius,
Remus and Vivienne, “most of the Resistance veterans, a few volunteers from
the Order…” She shrugged. “We’ll need to be able to deal with any houngans
that try to interfere.”
Remus and Vivienne, “most of the Resistance veterans, a few volunteers from
the Order…” She shrugged. “We’ll need to be able to deal with any houngans
that try to interfere.”
“That’s an invasion!” Ron exclaimed again.
Sirius chuckled. “We’re not going to stay there, so it’s a punitive
expedition. Teach the houngans that they cannot mess with Britain.”
expedition. Teach the houngans that they cannot mess with Britain.”
Harry shot a glance at his godfather. Was he serious?
Remus spoke up. “You intend to use this as a demonstration of Britain’s
power.”
power.”
Hermione shook her head. “The main objective is to secure a cure for the
victims of the Withering Curse. Ideally, we’ll be out of the country before
they even notice us. But should we encounter houngans, then we won’t let them
stop us. And in that case, we’ll use the opportunity to teach them and,
through that, others that we won’t tolerate anyone interfering with our
affairs.”
victims of the Withering Curse. Ideally, we’ll be out of the country before
they even notice us. But should we encounter houngans, then we won’t let them
stop us. And in that case, we’ll use the opportunity to teach them and,
through that, others that we won’t tolerate anyone interfering with our
affairs.”
“The ICW will have a fit,” Remus pointed out, though he sounded resigned.
“The ICW didn’t do anything to Dumbledore when he visited the island in 1957
and slaughtered half a dozen houngans,” Sirius retorted. “And Dumbledore had
even less of a pretext than we have given Reid’s crimes. If we cull some
houngans, the ICW will side with us.”
and slaughtered half a dozen houngans,” Sirius retorted. “And Dumbledore had
even less of a pretext than we have given Reid’s crimes. If we cull some
houngans, the ICW will side with us.”
“‘If we cull some houngans’,” Ron said. “What are our chances?”
“Quite good in my opinion,” Hermione answered. “If Rookwood can attack and
kill two houngans in their manors, then it stands to reason that the houngans
are not quite as dangerous as they have been made out to be.”
kill two houngans in their manors, then it stands to reason that the houngans
are not quite as dangerous as they have been made out to be.”
“We don’t know if the mysterious attacker is Rookwood,” Remus said.
“Who else could it be?” Sirius asked. “He offered a cure to Bones; the muggle
explosives used in Jamaica and in Britain by imperiused attackers were the
same… there aren’t that many wizards who can do that.”
explosives used in Jamaica and in Britain by imperiused attackers were the
same… there aren’t that many wizards who can do that.”
“It could be a muggleborn,” Remus said.
“Theoretically,” Hermione cut in. “But such a person would have done more in
the Blood War. And only a Death Eater would have the skull stolen by the Dark
Lord.”
the Blood War. And only a Death Eater would have the skull stolen by the Dark
Lord.”
Harry had to agree with her reasoning there. “But if the houngans can’t find
him in their own country, how can we find him?”
him in their own country, how can we find him?”
“With the help of the Unspeakables!” Sirius said with a broad grin. “They have
ways to find deserters.”
ways to find deserters.”
“They didn’t manage to find him during the war,” Harry retorted.
“He was aware of their efforts,” Sirius explained. ‘And there was the danger
of the Dark Lord setting up an ambush for anyone coming after Rookwood. They
might also have been too concerned with the threat of other traitors within
their ranks.’ With a cynical smile, he added: “And there was the possibility
that Voldemort would prevail, so the department might not have been too
motivated to capture one of the Dark Lord’s inner circle.”
of the Dark Lord setting up an ambush for anyone coming after Rookwood. They
might also have been too concerned with the threat of other traitors within
their ranks.’ With a cynical smile, he added: “And there was the possibility
that Voldemort would prevail, so the department might not have been too
motivated to capture one of the Dark Lord’s inner circle.”
“And we’re supposed to trust them?” Ron scoffed.
“We won,” Sirius said.
“Besides, we will search for both the skull and him. We can use the houngans’
ritual, and whatever means the Unspeakables use to find Rookwood. Probably a
similar ritual, maybe even one which also has a sacrificial component,”
Hermione explained.
ritual, and whatever means the Unspeakables use to find Rookwood. Probably a
similar ritual, maybe even one which also has a sacrificial component,”
Hermione explained.
“Not maybe, almost certainly,” Sirius corrected her. “The Department of
Mysteries goes back centuries, and they’ve been dealing with the Dark Arts for
as long. They claim to keep magic too dangerous to be used, or even known
about, sealed in their vaults, but there are too many rumours about their own
experiments for them not to have delved into the Dark Arts themselves.”
Mysteries goes back centuries, and they’ve been dealing with the Dark Arts for
as long. They claim to keep magic too dangerous to be used, or even known
about, sealed in their vaults, but there are too many rumours about their own
experiments for them not to have delved into the Dark Arts themselves.”
“Are we taking one of them with us?” Harry asked. That sounded like asking
Reid to come with them. He forced away the memory of the poor woman being
murdered in front of him.
Reid to come with them. He forced away the memory of the poor woman being
murdered in front of him.
“Only if we can’t get them to teach us their ritual,” Sirius replied.
“Which means ‘yes’,” Ron added. “Dad told me about their secrecy. And they’ll
spy on us as well.”
spy on us as well.”
“That can’t be helped,” Hermione said, sighing. “We need the cure, and we need
to stop Rookwood.”
to stop Rookwood.”
“And stopping the houngans from returning to their evil ways is a good thing
to aim for as well.” Sirius showed his teeth in a feral grin.
to aim for as well.” Sirius showed his teeth in a feral grin.
“It’ll be dangerous, though.” Remus slightly shook his head.
“Less dangerous than having every pureblood government thinking that we’re too
weak to retaliate against another attack.” Sirius waved his friend’s concerns
away.
weak to retaliate against another attack.” Sirius waved his friend’s concerns
away.
“Yes. Dubois would never ’ave dared to meddle in Britain if Dumbledore were
still alive,” Vivienne spoke up.
still alive,” Vivienne spoke up.
Harry patted his enchanted pocket, where Dumbledore’s wand was holstered. They
had talked about this before. He was no Dumbledore, far from it, but he’d do
his best to fake it if it meant his family and friends would be safe. And, he
added silently to himself, so would everyone else present.
had talked about this before. He was no Dumbledore, far from it, but he’d do
his best to fake it if it meant his family and friends would be safe. And, he
added silently to himself, so would everyone else present.
“Well, at least we won’t have to go back to school for a little while longer,”
Ron said. “We’ll need to train together with everyone who’s coming with us.
And beating houngans should at least give us an ‘O’ in Defence,” he added with
a grin.
Ron said. “We’ll need to train together with everyone who’s coming with us.
And beating houngans should at least give us an ‘O’ in Defence,” he added with
a grin.
Harry saw Hermione shake her head, but she was smiling at his friend. As was
Harry himself.
Harry himself.
---
**London, East End, April 12th, 1997**
“Make sure that the Silencing Charms have been cast,” Hermione Granger told
Tania as she levitated a keg of beer into the kitchen. ‘I’d rather not have
the police show up because someone reported an illegal party.’ She opened the
fridge and sighed. As she had suspected, someone had stuffed it full of beer
and soda bottles. Sighing, she put the keg down and levitated the bottles out.
“The drinks go into the expanded ice box, not the fridge!” she yelled into the
living room, where the furniture was being rearranged and transfigured to turn
it into a party room.
Tania as she levitated a keg of beer into the kitchen. ‘I’d rather not have
the police show up because someone reported an illegal party.’ She opened the
fridge and sighed. As she had suspected, someone had stuffed it full of beer
and soda bottles. Sighing, she put the keg down and levitated the bottles out.
“The drinks go into the expanded ice box, not the fridge!” she yelled into the
living room, where the furniture was being rearranged and transfigured to turn
it into a party room.
At least the food was coming along on schedule — Sally-Anne had all the
samples they had planned for ready to be heated and multiplied, as Hermione’s
inspection revealed.
samples they had planned for ready to be heated and multiplied, as Hermione’s
inspection revealed.
The other witch chuckled. “It’s just a party, not a battle.”
Hermione pursed her lips. Everything went better if it was planned and
prepared for carefully. “This marks the end of our war in Britain. It should
be properly and memorably celebrated.”
prepared for carefully. “This marks the end of our war in Britain. It should
be properly and memorably celebrated.”
“Oh, I think Seamus will ensure that it’ll be a memorable party,” Sally-Anne
said.
said.
“What?” She whipped her head round. “What’s he planning?” If he brought down
the police or the Obliviators on them…
the police or the Obliviators on them…
“Huh? Nothing. But he usually is quite funny when drunk, right?”
Hermione frowned. Seamus did tend to go overboard when partying. But she
couldn’t begrudge him that, not during the war, and not on this occasion.
couldn’t begrudge him that, not during the war, and not on this occasion.
“Speaking of war, did you decide on how to acquire a cure for the Withering
Curse?” Justin asked, leaning against the kitchen’s door frame.
Curse?” Justin asked, leaning against the kitchen’s door frame.
She glanced around, then cast a privacy spell. “Yes.”
“Does that mean you’re planning another war?” he asked.
She heard Sally-Anne gasp behind her, and felt a stab of guilt. If this ruined
the party for her friends… but they deserved her honesty. “Not a war. But we
need to stop Rookwood, who’s running rampant in Jamaica, before he starts a
war. And I’m certain that the skull he has is the key to finding said cure.”
They might need more than that — Rookwood was in Jamaica for a reason — but
then again, between the Order, the Resistance and the Ministry, they had far
more resources than a single Death Eater on the run.
the party for her friends… but they deserved her honesty. “Not a war. But we
need to stop Rookwood, who’s running rampant in Jamaica, before he starts a
war. And I’m certain that the skull he has is the key to finding said cure.”
They might need more than that — Rookwood was in Jamaica for a reason — but
then again, between the Order, the Resistance and the Ministry, they had far
more resources than a single Death Eater on the run.
Sally-Anne gasped again, but Justin simply nodded. “And the cure for the
Withering Curse will help a lot with the election.”
Withering Curse will help a lot with the election.”
“Yes. It’ll help us get the votes from half-bloods and purebloods.” The only
muggleborns struck by the Withering Curse had been the Creeveys, after all —
and only Dennis was still alive.
muggleborns struck by the Withering Curse had been the Creeveys, after all —
and only Dennis was still alive.
“We’ll be working with the Order then.” Justin was sharp.
“Part of it,” she corrected. “Harry, Ron, Sirius, Aberforth if he agrees, a
few others maybe.” But the Resistance would provide the main strength for the
raid.
few others maybe.” But the Resistance would provide the main strength for the
raid.
“Is it really necessary?” Sally-Anne said. When Hermione and Justin turned to
look at her, she flinched but held their gazes. “I don’t want to leave Dennis
in a coma, but… we lost so many in the war, and now we’re going to fight
houngans?”
look at her, she flinched but held their gazes. “I don’t want to leave Dennis
in a coma, but… we lost so many in the war, and now we’re going to fight
houngans?”
“We’re not planning to fight houngans,” Hermione said. Technically, it was
true. “But we’ll be ready for them, should they get in our way.” She knew it
would be dangerous, and she didn’t like risking her friends’ lives again, but
they needed to do this so they’d be able to rebuild and reform Britain in
peace.
true. “But we’ll be ready for them, should they get in our way.” She knew it
would be dangerous, and she didn’t like risking her friends’ lives again, but
they needed to do this so they’d be able to rebuild and reform Britain in
peace.
Justin nodded. “What’s the timetable?”
“A week or two, I think — this needs careful planning.” And they still needed
to negotiate with the Unspeakables. “We need to familiarise ourselves with a
piece of gear to to deal with skeletons and bone walls.”
to negotiate with the Unspeakables. “We need to familiarise ourselves with a
piece of gear to to deal with skeletons and bone walls.”
“And get used to fighting together,” Justin added. “How will we get to
Jamaica?”
Jamaica?”
Hermione grinned. “Muggle means.”
---
“So, this is your secret base,” Ron Weasley said, looking around the hallway.
“Safe house. Or headquarters,” Hermione corrected him. “‘Secret base’ has too
many associations with Bond villains.”
many associations with Bond villains.”
He didn’t know exactly what a ‘Bond villain’ was, but nodded anyway. Harry,
standing next to him, chuckled. “You’d have to charm Crookshanks’s fur white
for that.”
standing next to him, chuckled. “You’d have to charm Crookshanks’s fur white
for that.”
Hermione huffed. “We’re not going to mutilate my cat for a joke.” Shaking her
head, she pointed at the stairs. “Let’s go up to the living room. The others
have already started. We’ve expanded it, of course, so everyone could fit
inside without stepping on each other’s toes. Everyone except for those on
guard duty,” she added.
head, she pointed at the stairs. “Let’s go up to the living room. The others
have already started. We’ve expanded it, of course, so everyone could fit
inside without stepping on each other’s toes. Everyone except for those on
guard duty,” she added.
They followed her up the stairs and encountered Seamus in the hallway. “Hey!
You made it!” he said with a wide grin — he looked slightly tipsy to Ron.
“We’ve gone through another keg, so I’ll fetch the next.”
You made it!” he said with a wide grin — he looked slightly tipsy to Ron.
“We’ve gone through another keg, so I’ll fetch the next.”
Hermione blinked. “You already finished the entire keg?”
“Of course!” the Irish wizard said, laughing, then passed them, slapping their
backs as he did so. “I’ll be back!”
backs as he did so. “I’ll be back!”
Hermione sighed, then opened the door to the living room. “The disco lighting
wasn’t my idea,” she said, before ushering them in.
wasn’t my idea,” she said, before ushering them in.
Ron found himself in a dimly lit room filled with music loud enough to make
his ears hurt. Half a dozen people were dancing in the middle of the room
while others were lounging on what looked like beanbags and couches. Justin,
sitting on a couch with Sally-Anne on his lap, waved at them as Hermione
steered them to a free couch. As soon as they got close, the music seemed to
get quieter and the witch sighed. “I bet the music does more damage to their
ears than all the marksmanship training in boot camp.”
his ears hurt. Half a dozen people were dancing in the middle of the room
while others were lounging on what looked like beanbags and couches. Justin,
sitting on a couch with Sally-Anne on his lap, waved at them as Hermione
steered them to a free couch. As soon as they got close, the music seemed to
get quieter and the witch sighed. “I bet the music does more damage to their
ears than all the marksmanship training in boot camp.”
Ron shrugged — a few spells would take care of that; he had experience of that
himself, given the twins’ tendency to make things blow up — and sat down on
the couch. Harry flung himself into a beanbag chair and Hermione joined him on
the couch. A flick of her wand had a few soft drinks floating towards them.
“If you want beer we can get some once Seamus gets back,” she explained.
himself, given the twins’ tendency to make things blow up — and sat down on
the couch. Harry flung himself into a beanbag chair and Hermione joined him on
the couch. A flick of her wand had a few soft drinks floating towards them.
“If you want beer we can get some once Seamus gets back,” she explained.
“I’m good,” Ron said. He’d rather not get drunk, or at least not too drunk —
Harry and he had trained with the Resistance, and fought at their side, but he
still felt like an outsider. He didn’t get all of the jokes and didn’t
recognise most of the songs and singers. But, he added to himself as he
wrapped an arm around Hermione’s waist, that hadn’t stopped Hermione from
enjoying Hogwarts, and it wouldn’t stop him from enjoying the party with her.
Harry and he had trained with the Resistance, and fought at their side, but he
still felt like an outsider. He didn’t get all of the jokes and didn’t
recognise most of the songs and singers. But, he added to himself as he
wrapped an arm around Hermione’s waist, that hadn’t stopped Hermione from
enjoying Hogwarts, and it wouldn’t stop him from enjoying the party with her.
He opened his bottle — Coca-Cola — and raised it to the others. “Cheers!”
“Cheers!”
“Cheers!”
Sometime later, he found himself with Hermione in her room. He would have
remarked on the lack of bookshelves — relative lack, for her — but his mind
was on other things. As was hers.
remarked on the lack of bookshelves — relative lack, for her — but his mind
was on other things. As was hers.
---
**London, East End, April 12th, 1997**
“… and then I told her that I could do magic!”
Harry Potter tuned out Seamus’s drunk rambling about a probably fictitious
one-night stand while he watched his two best friends slip out of the living
room, masking his frown with another sip from his beer. He shouldn’t feel
jealous, he told himself. And he wasn’t. Not really, at least. Not any more.
But seeing Ron and Hermione together, sneaking away to have… Well, it reminded
him of the fact that he was alone. Alone in a room full of people. That
sounded like the lyrics of a song.
one-night stand while he watched his two best friends slip out of the living
room, masking his frown with another sip from his beer. He shouldn’t feel
jealous, he told himself. And he wasn’t. Not really, at least. Not any more.
But seeing Ron and Hermione together, sneaking away to have… Well, it reminded
him of the fact that he was alone. Alone in a room full of people. That
sounded like the lyrics of a song.
“… and then we went to her flat, and…”
Seamus was too drunk to notice that Harry wasn’t even listening. He sighed and
took another sip. He should be enjoying himself. This was a party, after all.
And a pretty good one, all things considered — certainly on a par with the
parties in the Gryffindor dorms after a Quidditch victory. Which was, he
realised, not exactly a gold standard. But the music was loud, and the drinks
were fine, and there was no danger of McGonagall arriving to tell them to go
to bed.
took another sip. He should be enjoying himself. This was a party, after all.
And a pretty good one, all things considered — certainly on a par with the
parties in the Gryffindor dorms after a Quidditch victory. Which was, he
realised, not exactly a gold standard. But the music was loud, and the drinks
were fine, and there was no danger of McGonagall arriving to tell them to go
to bed.
And, after the month spent training in Cumbria, he knew most of the Resistance
members drinking and dancing here as well as or better than his fellow
Gryffindors. Even, or especially, if they were former Gryffindors themselves.
Which, seeing as Seamus was currently trying to talk his ear off, had some
drawbacks as well.
members drinking and dancing here as well as or better than his fellow
Gryffindors. Even, or especially, if they were former Gryffindors themselves.
Which, seeing as Seamus was currently trying to talk his ear off, had some
drawbacks as well.
He looked around. Justin had taken over one of the beanbag chairs with
Sally-Anne. They’d probably sneak off soon too. He couldn’t see John, and
Tania was… probably checking the guard. He glanced at his watch. Midnight —
they’d be changing shifts now.
Sally-Anne. They’d probably sneak off soon too. He couldn’t see John, and
Tania was… probably checking the guard. He glanced at his watch. Midnight —
they’d be changing shifts now.
He wasn’t entirely certain that a guard was necessary. Wards would provide
enough protection for them to react to an attack. But Hermione had insisted
that there should be at least one sober guard keeping an eye out. Probably to
keep an eye on the rest of them as well. He smirked — Hermione would have been
a rather strict prefect for Gryffindor. Not as strict as Percy, though.
enough protection for them to react to an attack. But Hermione had insisted
that there should be at least one sober guard keeping an eye out. Probably to
keep an eye on the rest of them as well. He smirked — Hermione would have been
a rather strict prefect for Gryffindor. Not as strict as Percy, though.
He saw a witch moving towards him and turned to face her before he recognised
her. Emily. Emily Brown. She had taken a nasty fall in boot camp, and the rest
of the Resistance hadn’t let her forget it for two weeks. She wasn’t wearing a
muddy uniform now, though, but some jeans and a T-shirt.
her. Emily. Emily Brown. She had taken a nasty fall in boot camp, and the rest
of the Resistance hadn’t let her forget it for two weeks. She wasn’t wearing a
muddy uniform now, though, but some jeans and a T-shirt.
“Hey!” She smiled at him and waved with the hand holding a beer bottle,
spilling some on the floor.
spilling some on the floor.
“Hey!” Harry nodded at her, raising his own almost empty bottle in response.
“Hey!” Seamus said. He tried to drink from his bottle, taking a moment to
realise that it was empty. After glaring at it, he went to the bar. Presumably
to get another one.
realise that it was empty. After glaring at it, he went to the bar. Presumably
to get another one.
“How do you like the party?” Emily asked. She was wearing high-heels, he
noticed — usually, she was a bit too short to look him in the eye.
noticed — usually, she was a bit too short to look him in the eye.
Harry shrugged, then forced himself to smile — he shouldn’t ruin her mood
because he felt a bit gloomy. “It’s good.”
because he felt a bit gloomy. “It’s good.”
“Oh, yes! It’s great!” Emily nodded several times with a wide smile and he
realised that she was also rather drunk. “We’ve won the war!”
realised that she was also rather drunk. “We’ve won the war!”
“Yes, we did.” This wasn’t the time to tell her that they weren’t yet done
with fighting.
with fighting.
“And you killed the Dark Lord!”
“I had a lot of help,” he answered. He noticed that Seamus had stayed at the
bar, talking to Tania.
bar, talking to Tania.
“Modest. And cute.” Emily leaned forward, still smiling widely and cocked her
head to the side, making a humming noise.
head to the side, making a humming noise.
He froze for a moment. She was drunker than he had thought. And she was
flirting with him — or trying to. “Thanks,” he answered. “You look nice, too.”
flirting with him — or trying to. “Thanks,” he answered. “You look nice, too.”
“Want to dance?” she asked, nodding towards the middle of the room. Someone
had transfigured the floor there into a shiny dance floor.
had transfigured the floor there into a shiny dance floor.
He had barely nodded when she took his arm and started to pull him along.
“Let’s go!”
“Let’s go!”
A few others were dancing too, but there was enough room for them — even
counting Emily’s drunken need for a bit more space. She bumped into him a few
times, too, but by accident, as far as he could tell.
counting Emily’s drunken need for a bit more space. She bumped into him a few
times, too, but by accident, as far as he could tell.
And then the music changed to a slow song, and Harry found himself with Emily
in his arms, swaying mostly in time with the music. He could smell a faint
whiff of perfume when she rested her chin on his shoulder, and felt her chest
pressing into his while her hands wandered over his back seemingly at random.
in his arms, swaying mostly in time with the music. He could smell a faint
whiff of perfume when she rested her chin on his shoulder, and felt her chest
pressing into his while her hands wandered over his back seemingly at random.
When she nibbled on his ear, giggling, he realised that if he ‘played his
cards right’, as Sirius called it, he could spend the night with her. He knew
from training that she was nice, she was cute too, and, apparently, she liked
him. At least when she was drunk.
cards right’, as Sirius called it, he could spend the night with her. He knew
from training that she was nice, she was cute too, and, apparently, she liked
him. At least when she was drunk.
Which was a problem. If he even wanted to sleep with her in the first place.
Which, if he was honest with himself, was a tempting fantasy. But he didn’t
know if she really wanted him, or was simply too drunk to realise what she was
doing. She was twenty-one years old, after all. She had been in her sixth year
when he had arrived at Hogwarts! And she hadn’t shown any such interest in him
before. He didn’t want to wake up to find her regretting the whole thing or
cursing him. Or, worse, belittling him for his lack of experience. He still
remembered Sirius’s story about how he and Harry’s father had tried to ask out
a witch four years their senior. He wanted something more, too. Something like
his friends had.
Which, if he was honest with himself, was a tempting fantasy. But he didn’t
know if she really wanted him, or was simply too drunk to realise what she was
doing. She was twenty-one years old, after all. She had been in her sixth year
when he had arrived at Hogwarts! And she hadn’t shown any such interest in him
before. He didn’t want to wake up to find her regretting the whole thing or
cursing him. Or, worse, belittling him for his lack of experience. He still
remembered Sirius’s story about how he and Harry’s father had tried to ask out
a witch four years their senior. He wanted something more, too. Something like
his friends had.
And he didn’t want to take advantage of a drunk girl… He shook his head,
foiling Emily’s next attempt to nip at his earlobe. Well, he could enjoy the
dancing, at least.
foiling Emily’s next attempt to nip at his earlobe. Well, he could enjoy the
dancing, at least.
But he’d better not drink any more alcohol.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 13th, 1997**
Harry Potter was eating breakfast in the kitchen when Ron returned from the
Resistance’s base.
Resistance’s base.
“Hi, mate!” His friend nodded and took a seat across him, reaching for the
Daily Prophet.
Daily Prophet.
Harry didn’t pull out his watch to check the time, that would have made him
look like Percy, but it was past nine in the morning since that was when he
had got up. He didn’t comment on Ron having had a long night, either. “Already
ate?” he asked instead.
look like Percy, but it was past nine in the morning since that was when he
had got up. He didn’t comment on Ron having had a long night, either. “Already
ate?” he asked instead.
Ron nodded. “Yes… though I wouldn’t mind another cup of tea, actually.”
Kreacher quickly served him, and both Harry and Ron ignored the house-elf’s
mutters about purebloods soiling themselves with mudbloods. For a while,
neither said anything. Ron was reading the Prophet and Harry was buttering
some toast before spreading honey all over it.
mutters about purebloods soiling themselves with mudbloods. For a while,
neither said anything. Ron was reading the Prophet and Harry was buttering
some toast before spreading honey all over it.
“Nothing new,” Ron said, putting the Prophet down. “Just regurgitated stuff
they already published last week.”
they already published last week.”
Harry nodded. He didn’t ask if Ron had picked up that word from Hermione. Or
what they had done during the night. “What’s Hermione doing?”
what they had done during the night. “What’s Hermione doing?”
“She’s doing some reading on Jamaica. Muggle Jamaica,” Ron said. He shrugged.
“Planning how to enter the country covertly. Nothing I could help with,” he
added.
“Planning how to enter the country covertly. Nothing I could help with,” he
added.
Harry nodded. He wasn’t too experienced with muggle travel either. He finished
his toast, then cleared his throat. Ron looked up from where he was studying
the tea cup for leaves to read.
his toast, then cleared his throat. Ron looked up from where he was studying
the tea cup for leaves to read.
“Emily was drunk at the party,” Harry started.
“Most of the Resistance were drunk,” Ron cut in, chuckling. “Seamus didn’t
make it to his room — we found him snoring in the middle of the living room,
hugging an empty keg.”
make it to his room — we found him snoring in the middle of the living room,
hugging an empty keg.”
Harry frowned. “She was rather… affectionate.”
“Oh?” Ron’s eyes widened. “Did you and her…?”
He shook his head. “No. She was drunk.”
“Ah.” His friend nodded. He didn’t have to sound so understanding, Harry
thought. As if the only reason a girl would be flirting with him was because
she was drunk.
thought. As if the only reason a girl would be flirting with him was because
she was drunk.
“So, we didn’t. I didn’t.” he continued.
“Are you going to talk to her when she’s sober?”
Harry sighed. “I doubt she wants to be reminded of what she said while drunk.”
And did.
And did.
Ron shrugged. “Maybe. Maybe not.”
“She’s also twenty-one. She was a sixth year when we were firsties.” Harry
winced.
winced.
“Ah…” Ron grimaced.
“Yeah. I don’t think she would have been interested in nibbling my earlobe if
she hadn’t been drunk and I wasn’t the Boy-Who-Lived.”
she hadn’t been drunk and I wasn’t the Boy-Who-Lived.”
“Don’t sell yourself short, mate.” Ron didn’t sound like he meant it, though.
And Harry didn’t want to mention his fear of disappointing an older witch, if
they ended up in bed. Not to Ron, who had just spent the night with Hermione,
and not for the first time either.
And Harry didn’t want to mention his fear of disappointing an older witch, if
they ended up in bed. Not to Ron, who had just spent the night with Hermione,
and not for the first time either.
“I’m just being realistic.” Moody would have agreed.
“Not every witch is after the Boy-Who-Lived. I mean, not every witch who is
interested in you is. Ah… you know what I mean.” Ron had Kreacher refill his
cup.
interested in you is. Ah… you know what I mean.” Ron had Kreacher refill his
cup.
“I can’t exactly read the mind of every witch who flirts with me,” he
retorted.
retorted.
“Well… you could. Theoretically, I mean.”
Yes, he could. Dumbledore’s training had ensured that. But he wouldn’t. He
shook his head. “That would be…” Pathetic. “… wrong.”
shook his head. “That would be…” Pathetic. “… wrong.”
“Well, you know girls who aren’t like that,” Ron said after a moment.
Harry did. And the one he knew best was with his best friend. He didn’t say
that, but judging by the way Ron flinched, his expression might have betrayed
Harry. “That’s because they’re not interested in me.”
that, but judging by the way Ron flinched, his expression might have betrayed
Harry. “That’s because they’re not interested in me.”
Ron was frowning now, for some reason. “Are you certain?”
Harry narrowed his eyes. He was missing something. “What do you mean?” His
friend hesitated. Harry leaned forward. “Spit it out!”
friend hesitated. Harry leaned forward. “Spit it out!”
“Look…” Ron drew a hissing breath through clenched teeth. “All I’m saying is
that you might be wrong.”
that you might be wrong.”
“‘Might be wrong’?” Harry was certain now that Ron knew more than he was
saying. But how would he know, and why wouldn’t he… “Ginny.”
saying. But how would he know, and why wouldn’t he… “Ginny.”
Ron muttered a curse under his breath.
Harry frowned. Ginny hadn’t said anything to him. And she wasn’t the little
girl who blushed and put her elbow in the butter dish any more. She was rather
forward, instead. A firebrand, even. “Is that new?”
girl who blushed and put her elbow in the butter dish any more. She was rather
forward, instead. A firebrand, even. “Is that new?”
“What?” Ron glared at him. “Harry, I’m not going to spill my sister’s secrets
to you! Not that I know many of her secrets anyway.”
to you! Not that I know many of her secrets anyway.”
“Well, you spilled one,” Harry shot back.
“I didn’t mean to.”
“How can I talk to her, now that I know? ‘Hey, Ginny, Ron said you liked me’?”
He scoffed.
He scoffed.
“Don’t! She’ll hex me!”
Harry thought Ron deserved to be hexed. At least a little. He sighed. He was
glad they weren’t returning to Hogwarts yet. Maybe he could figure out how to
deal with this with a little more time.
glad they weren’t returning to Hogwarts yet. Maybe he could figure out how to
deal with this with a little more time.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 14th, 1997**
Amelia Bones was in a good mood. Today, the ICW delegation — more precisely,
the two members who were left after Reid’s flight — would finally leave
Britain, their inspection officially over. One less problem to plague the
country.
the two members who were left after Reid’s flight — would finally leave
Britain, their inspection officially over. One less problem to plague the
country.
She dropped the memo she had been working on — an approval of Pius’s schedule
for Malfoy and Runcorn’s trial, the ‘Traitors’ Trial’, as the Prophet had
dubbed it — on her secretary’s desk and took the lift down to the Atrium.
for Malfoy and Runcorn’s trial, the ‘Traitors’ Trial’, as the Prophet had
dubbed it — on her secretary’s desk and took the lift down to the Atrium.
Sabine Beaumont, Herbert Steiner and their entourages were already waiting
near the fireplaces. Aurors and Hit-Wizards were present too, of course, as
were a few members of the Wizengamot. “Madam Beaumont, Mister Steiner.” She
nodded at them.
near the fireplaces. Aurors and Hit-Wizards were present too, of course, as
were a few members of the Wizengamot. “Madam Beaumont, Mister Steiner.” She
nodded at them.
“Madam Bones.” The French witch was more than a little curt, and Amelia
doubted that the lack of an official reception to celebrate the end of the
ICW’s inspection was the only reason for that.
doubted that the lack of an official reception to celebrate the end of the
ICW’s inspection was the only reason for that.
“Good morning, Madam Bones.” Steiner bowed. “A fine day for travelling, isn’t
it?”
it?”
“Yes, indeed,” Amelia agreed. Any day she got rid of the two delegates was a
fine day.
fine day.
“Amelia! Good morning! Mister Steiner, Mademoiselle Beaumont — good morning!”
“Good morning, Sirius.” And her good mood was already fading. She forced
herself to smile. Black was far too cheerful for the occasion, but then, he
had been instrumental in forcing the French to back down — or so he claimed.
By the glare Beaumont shot him, he might even have told her the truth. Not
that he said anything about how he had managed it. She forced herself not to
glare as well. Foreign policy fell within the purview of the Minister for
Magic, not the Wizengamot. No matter what the Chief Warlock said, it took a
bill to change that. But she couldn’t do anything about it. Black now
controlled the Wizengamot, and Pius wouldn’t back her if she wanted the matter
brought up anyway. That wizard cared far too much about results instead of the
law.
herself to smile. Black was far too cheerful for the occasion, but then, he
had been instrumental in forcing the French to back down — or so he claimed.
By the glare Beaumont shot him, he might even have told her the truth. Not
that he said anything about how he had managed it. She forced herself not to
glare as well. Foreign policy fell within the purview of the Minister for
Magic, not the Wizengamot. No matter what the Chief Warlock said, it took a
bill to change that. But she couldn’t do anything about it. Black now
controlled the Wizengamot, and Pius wouldn’t back her if she wanted the matter
brought up anyway. That wizard cared far too much about results instead of the
law.
She would fire him, if he wouldn’t be reinstated as soon as Black got rid of
her. But for now, she was still the Minister, and she’d do her duty.
her. But for now, she was still the Minister, and she’d do her duty.
She cleared her throat. “Madam Beaumont, Mister Steiner, the British Ministry
of Magic is proud to note that your inspection was concluded successfully and
that you found that there is no danger of Britain not fulfilling her duties
towards the International Confederation of Wizards.”
of Magic is proud to note that your inspection was concluded successfully and
that you found that there is no danger of Britain not fulfilling her duties
towards the International Confederation of Wizards.”
“Thank you, Madam Minister,” Steiner said, bowing again. “We’ve only done our
duty.”
duty.”
That was the official line, but everyone with experience in politics knew
better, of course. The delegation had stayed for over a month, far longer than
announced beforehand, and one of the delegates had been revealed as a murderer
and dark wizard trying to attack Hogwarts. The only inspection that had come
close to that in recent memory had been the one sent to California to deal
with goblin involvement in the so-called ‘gold rush’. An entire delegation on
the take… At least both France and Prussia had lost face for their involvement
in this farce.
better, of course. The delegation had stayed for over a month, far longer than
announced beforehand, and one of the delegates had been revealed as a murderer
and dark wizard trying to attack Hogwarts. The only inspection that had come
close to that in recent memory had been the one sent to California to deal
with goblin involvement in the so-called ‘gold rush’. An entire delegation on
the take… At least both France and Prussia had lost face for their involvement
in this farce.
“Indeed. We’re happy to note that things in Britain are not as bad as we had
feared in the beginning.” Beaumont, of course, couldn’t leave without a
parting hex.
feared in the beginning.” Beaumont, of course, couldn’t leave without a
parting hex.
Amelia refrained from answering. Black, however, did not. “You’re too kind.
And please, be assured that we all hope that Isabelle Dubois will soon be
found. Her kidnapping is a tragedy.”
And please, be assured that we all hope that Isabelle Dubois will soon be
found. Her kidnapping is a tragedy.”
Beaumont stiffened, and turned away without another word. She didn’t even
glance at the honour formation presenting their wands as she outpaced Steiner.
Amelia waited until the last of the Feldjäger had left, then turned to Black.
“What did you mean by that?” Had he been behind that kidnapping? Was that how
they had forced France to back down?
glance at the honour formation presenting their wands as she outpaced Steiner.
Amelia waited until the last of the Feldjäger had left, then turned to Black.
“What did you mean by that?” Had he been behind that kidnapping? Was that how
they had forced France to back down?
Black blinked as if he didn’t know what she meant. “What? I just expressed my
sympathy for the loss France has suffered.”
sympathy for the loss France has suffered.”
She glared at him, but his insufferable grin didn’t change. Nodding curtly,
she left him to return to her work.
she left him to return to her work.
If things continued like this, or grew even worse, then Amelia was looking
forward to her retirement.
forward to her retirement.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, April 15th, 1997**
Bess Cox sighed, soaking the last chip of her meal in vinegar at her and
Randall’s usual table in Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips. “You know, it’s sort of a let
down,” she said.
Randall’s usual table in Freddie’s Fish’n’Chips. “You know, it’s sort of a let
down,” she said.
“What is a let down?” Randall asked, putting the Daily Prophet he had been
skimming down.
skimming down.
“We’ve won, but we’ve not done much,” Bess said. When he looked puzzled, she
explained: “The Wizengamot will be elected in a few months. The Old Families
are done for. And all we did was capture some purebloods in hiding.” And were
almost killed twice, she thought. At least she had been.
explained: “The Wizengamot will be elected in a few months. The Old Families
are done for. And all we did was capture some purebloods in hiding.” And were
almost killed twice, she thought. At least she had been.
“We’ve done more than most.” Randall frowned. “We put our lives on the line,
unlike so many others.” He glanced at the other regulars in the shop.
unlike so many others.” He glanced at the other regulars in the shop.
“That’s not a high bar.” Bess sighed again. She should be happy that the Old
Families had lost their stranglehold on the Wizengamot. That the bigots had
been thoroughly discredited. And she was happy. After the Wizengamot had
passed the Reform Act, she had celebrated all night. But now… “What do we do
now?” She wasn’t the smartest witch, her grades at Hogwarts proved that. She
had been lucky to survive the war, too. And she was still a wanted witch.
Probably. She hadn’t many prospects. Unlike Randall. He was smart. And not
wanted for attacking Hogsmeade.
Families had lost their stranglehold on the Wizengamot. That the bigots had
been thoroughly discredited. And she was happy. After the Wizengamot had
passed the Reform Act, she had celebrated all night. But now… “What do we do
now?” She wasn’t the smartest witch, her grades at Hogwarts proved that. She
had been lucky to survive the war, too. And she was still a wanted witch.
Probably. She hadn’t many prospects. Unlike Randall. He was smart. And not
wanted for attacking Hogsmeade.
“The war’s over, but the election is far from being a done deal. The Old
Families still have more gold than the rest of Wizarding Britain combined,”
her friend said.
Families still have more gold than the rest of Wizarding Britain combined,”
her friend said.
“What? Are you certain?”
“Well, I don’t have exact numbers, but I don’t think I’m too far off the mark
with my estimate. We had a hereditary ruling class with almost complete
control over the legislative and executive branches, which means they could
control the economy as well, and prevent others from amassing enough wealth to
threaten them…” He spread his hands. “The Ministry presented the best option
to improve your station, so most talented and ambitious wizards chose that
career, instead of, say, business.”
with my estimate. We had a hereditary ruling class with almost complete
control over the legislative and executive branches, which means they could
control the economy as well, and prevent others from amassing enough wealth to
threaten them…” He spread his hands. “The Ministry presented the best option
to improve your station, so most talented and ambitious wizards chose that
career, instead of, say, business.”
Bess nodded. His explanation sounded logical. “What does that mean, then?”
“It means that if we get complacent, they can buy the election. Plaster the
purebloods and half-bloods with propaganda and get themselves elected.” He
looked rather grim. “The Ministry arrested the ones responsible for the
Pureblood Voice, but the Old Families can simply buy more air time — or entire
shows.”
purebloods and half-bloods with propaganda and get themselves elected.” He
looked rather grim. “The Ministry arrested the ones responsible for the
Pureblood Voice, but the Old Families can simply buy more air time — or entire
shows.”
She clenched her teeth. “I’m not going to let them win.”
“We’re not going to let them win,” Randall said. “We’re going to ensure that
we’ll win the election. We’re going to form a party!”
we’ll win the election. We’re going to form a party!”
---
**Cumbria, Britain, April 15th, 1997**
Ron Weasley threw himself to the muddy ground when he spotted the floating
marker clearing the trees ahead of him. A Stunner passed over his head, and
another narrowly missed him as he rolled into cover behind a tree trunk. He
waited a moment, then jumped back out, sprinting towards a large rock while
sending a volley of Stinging Hexes at the disillusioned enemy. Another Stunner
hit the ground near his leg, then he was behind the rock.
marker clearing the trees ahead of him. A Stunner passed over his head, and
another narrowly missed him as he rolled into cover behind a tree trunk. He
waited a moment, then jumped back out, sprinting towards a large rock while
sending a volley of Stinging Hexes at the disillusioned enemy. Another Stunner
hit the ground near his leg, then he was behind the rock.
He checked that he was still disillusioned, then rose to peek over the top —
only to drop down again when another Stunner flew towards him. Cursing, he
waved his wand.
only to drop down again when another Stunner flew towards him. Cursing, he
waved his wand.
“Avis!”
A flock of birds appeared and shot towards the trees ahead. That should create
a distraction. A flick of his wrist created a shallow trench crossing the
clearing next to him. If he managed to reach the other side…
a distraction. A flick of his wrist created a shallow trench crossing the
clearing next to him. If he managed to reach the other side…
“I got him!” he heard Harry say over the radio.
Ron took a deep breath and pushed the button of his own radio. “About time!”
Still, he remained cautious when he left his cover until he saw Harry standing
over the stunned form of Eric.
Still, he remained cautious when he left his cover until he saw Harry standing
over the stunned form of Eric.
“I had to circle around outside the range of his Human-presence-revealing
Spell before I could flank him, or he’d have seen my marker,” Harry defended
himself. “He was the last one, too.”
Spell before I could flank him, or he’d have seen my marker,” Harry defended
himself. “He was the last one, too.”
Ron nodded and pointed his wand at Eric. “Rennervate.”
The muggleborn wizard blinked as he woke up with a groan. “There were two of
you?”
you?”
“Of course,” Harry said. “You need to keep an eye out for flankers.”
“And you need to cast more than just Stunners,” Ron added.
“We’re not allowed to cast lethal curses,” Eric said.
“I meant, you need to cast more than just curses. Use Conjuration and
Transfiguration,” Ron explained. “If your enemy takes cover, do something
about it.”
Transfiguration,” Ron explained. “If your enemy takes cover, do something
about it.”
“But if I had had a rifle, you’d have been shot before you saw me.”
Ron shook his head. “Only if someone had spotted me ahead of you and dispelled
my Disillusionment Charm.”
my Disillusionment Charm.”
“You can’t count on having a line of sight at that range,” Harry cut in. “Not
in a jungle.”
in a jungle.”
Eric frowned. “Can’t count on not having it either. Why did we spend a month
training with guns if we’re not allowed to use them?”
training with guns if we’re not allowed to use them?”
Ron refrained from sighing. The other wizard wasn’t the best loser. “You still
need more training with your wand. You can’t rely on guns all the time.” Guns
had their place, but a wand was still crucial. He swished his and cleared his
fatigues of mud and dirt as they started to walk back towards their camp.
need more training with your wand. You can’t rely on guns all the time.” Guns
had their place, but a wand was still crucial. He swished his and cleared his
fatigues of mud and dirt as they started to walk back towards their camp.
---
“Just a week ago, I thought we’d be shot of this place,” Ron Weasley said an
hour later, sitting down at the campfire next to Harry with his mess kit.
hour later, sitting down at the campfire next to Harry with his mess kit.
“Suck it up,” Harry said. “Where else would we train for the next mission?”
“Somewhere warmer?” Ron asked, before taking a bite.
“Justin’s family doesn’t own a Caribbean resort. And we should give France a
wide berth for now,” Harry retorted. “Besides, trees are trees.”
wide berth for now,” Harry retorted. “Besides, trees are trees.”
Ron nodded, then focused on eating. It had been a tiring day. And they had
more training to look forward to.
more training to look forward to.
“Do you think Eric listened to what we said?” Harry asked after a minute.
“If he keeps whining we can always use some of Moody’s methods.”
“That might upset them.”
Ron shrugged. Hermione had told them to train the new members in magical
combat, and she knew who had trained Harry and Ron. “As long as it works.”
combat, and she knew who had trained Harry and Ron. “As long as it works.”
As Moody had been fond of saying: ‘Better to get hurt in training than in a
fight.’
fight.’
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 18th, 1997**
“You have heard the accused’s testimony. You know what he planned — the murder
of everyone in this room, including those who thought him a friend. You know
why he did it — because he wanted to take over Britain and mould it as the
Dark Lord would have. Such a terrible crime deserves only one punishment: the
Veil!”
of everyone in this room, including those who thought him a friend. You know
why he did it — because he wanted to take over Britain and mould it as the
Dark Lord would have. Such a terrible crime deserves only one punishment: the
Veil!”
Daphne Greengrass suppressed a snort as Thicknesse bowed curtly and left the
floor after his address to the Wizengamot. Showing amusement at the trial of
Augustus Malfoy wouldn’t be a good idea. Not even when she had been crucial to
uncovering Malfoy’s crimes. Instead, she shook her head in what she hoped was
a suitably grave manner. It didn’t matter much, anyway — the trial’s outcome
had been set in stone from the start.
floor after his address to the Wizengamot. Showing amusement at the trial of
Augustus Malfoy wouldn’t be a good idea. Not even when she had been crucial to
uncovering Malfoy’s crimes. Instead, she shook her head in what she hoped was
a suitably grave manner. It didn’t matter much, anyway — the trial’s outcome
had been set in stone from the start.
A member yelled: “The kiss! The kiss!” A few others joined in. Daphne rolled
her eyes — didn’t they know that the Dementors hadn’t returned to the
Ministry’s service? That they might end up as residents in Azkaban’s cells,
instead of their guards, once the Unspeakables had finished cornering and
corralling them? Maybe the Reform Act wasn’t that bad, if it meant the
Wizengamot would lose such idiots.
her eyes — didn’t they know that the Dementors hadn’t returned to the
Ministry’s service? That they might end up as residents in Azkaban’s cells,
instead of their guards, once the Unspeakables had finished cornering and
corralling them? Maybe the Reform Act wasn’t that bad, if it meant the
Wizengamot would lose such idiots.
She sighed while Malfoy rose for his own address to his former peers. She
certainly wouldn’t be a member in the new, elected Wizengamot. Not with her
past. And she wouldn’t miss it, either, she added to herself while stealing a
glance at Granger, who was sitting next to Black. To see the murderer of her
parents every session, to hear her speak every day, to nod and smile at her
whenever they met… she shook her head again, clenching her teeth.
certainly wouldn’t be a member in the new, elected Wizengamot. Not with her
past. And she wouldn’t miss it, either, she added to herself while stealing a
glance at Granger, who was sitting next to Black. To see the murderer of her
parents every session, to hear her speak every day, to nod and smile at her
whenever they met… she shook her head again, clenching her teeth.
“… what I did and planned had only one goal, a noble goal: to save Britain
from its ruin at the hands of the mudbloods. A goal worth any sacrifice! Who
among us would not sacrifice their life for their children?”
from its ruin at the hands of the mudbloods. A goal worth any sacrifice! Who
among us would not sacrifice their life for their children?”
Most of the members wouldn’t, Daphne thought cynically as her esteemed peers
booed and yelled, their outrage drowning out the accused’s last words. They
showed no decorum. Her father would have been shocked and ashamed at this
display. But her father had been a member of the Wizengamot before it had been
gutted by the attack on Malfoy Manor. Before dozens of members had been
replaced by their inexperienced heirs, all at the same time. Before the Battle
of the Ministry had caused even more deaths.
booed and yelled, their outrage drowning out the accused’s last words. They
showed no decorum. Her father would have been shocked and ashamed at this
display. But her father had been a member of the Wizengamot before it had been
gutted by the attack on Malfoy Manor. Before dozens of members had been
replaced by their inexperienced heirs, all at the same time. Before the Battle
of the Ministry had caused even more deaths.
The Wizengamot her father had been part of, she realised, as she raised her
wand to judge the accused guilty, had not survived the war. The muggleborns
would only replace a twitching corpse.
wand to judge the accused guilty, had not survived the war. The muggleborns
would only replace a twitching corpse.
Doge passed the sentence. “Augustus Malfoy, the Wizengamot finds you guilty of
treason, conspiracy to treason, murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to murder
and rebellion. As punishment, you will be sent through the Veil. The sentence
will be carried out immediately.”
treason, conspiracy to treason, murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to murder
and rebellion. As punishment, you will be sent through the Veil. The sentence
will be carried out immediately.”
Malfoy’s protests were cut off by a Silencing Charm, Daphne noted.
“For a man ready to die for his cause, he certainly is struggling a lot,”
Tracey commented as the Hit-Wizards dragged the condemned wizard away.
Tracey commented as the Hit-Wizards dragged the condemned wizard away.
Daphne nodded. Another sign of how far the Old Families had fallen. She hoped
the man would recover his composure when he was facing the Veil later. It
would make attending his execution easier.
the man would recover his composure when he was facing the Veil later. It
would make attending his execution easier.
After all, her parents had taught her that she had better watch a mortal enemy
die so she could be certain of their demise.
die so she could be certain of their demise.
---
Astoria was waiting for her when Daphne and Tracey returned to Greengrass
Manor hours later. “Daphne!” her sister spat, glaring at her.
Manor hours later. “Daphne!” her sister spat, glaring at her.
Daphne heard Tracey mumble a curse before grabbing a pinch of Floo powder.
“I’ll see you tomorrow,” her friend excused herself and left for her own home,
leaving the two sisters to face each other.
“I’ll see you tomorrow,” her friend excused herself and left for her own home,
leaving the two sisters to face each other.
“Astoria.” She nodded at her little sister.
Her sister scowled. “They murdered them! They tried to kill the mudbloods and
blood traitors, and the Wizengamot murdered them! I just heard it on the
wireless!”
blood traitors, and the Wizengamot murdered them! I just heard it on the
wireless!”
“Since Malfoy planned to murder all of them, that was to be expected.”
“They also said that you betrayed him. That you were a spy for Black and the
mudbloods!” Astoria crossed her arms and pressed her lips together. It would
have looked adorable if not for her expression.
mudbloods!” Astoria crossed her arms and pressed her lips together. It would
have looked adorable if not for her expression.
“I told you that already.” Daphne had. Astoria had avoided her afterwards.
Until now.
Until now.
“Why did you turn traitor?”
Daphne saw tears glittering in her sister’s eyes. She felt guilty, but forced
herself to ignore them. This was for Astoria’s own good. “Malfoy and Runcorn
betrayed our country. They betrayed their own allies. They were willing to
murder the entire Wizengamot for their plans.”
herself to ignore them. This was for Astoria’s own good. “Malfoy and Runcorn
betrayed our country. They betrayed their own allies. They were willing to
murder the entire Wizengamot for their plans.”
“They tried to avenge our parents! They would have killed Granger, if you
hadn’t betrayed them!” Astoria shook with each word she yelled.
hadn’t betrayed them!” Astoria shook with each word she yelled.
“And at what cost? Would you murder so many to kill Granger?”
“They’re just blood traitors! They murdered our parents! They want to murder
us!”
us!”
Daphne wanted to hex her, but controlled herself. “Would you have murdered me
to kill Granger?”
to kill Granger?”
“What?” Astoria looked confused.
“Don’t you realise what would have happened if we had followed Malfoy’s plan?
We would have restarted the war. And we would have died in it. Both of us.”
Daphne pressed out through clenched teeth.
We would have restarted the war. And we would have died in it. Both of us.”
Daphne pressed out through clenched teeth.
“What?” Her sister took a step back, her arms falling to her side.
“Didn’t you pay attention at all? How many people died in the war? Most of the
Wizengamot! Most of the Ministry! What do you think would happen if we killed
Granger, huh?”
Wizengamot! Most of the Ministry! What do you think would happen if we killed
Granger, huh?”
“But… but…”
“I’ll tell you what would have happened if we had blown up Granger and the
‘blood traitors’: The mudbloods would have massacred us. You, me, and any
purebloods they could find.” She stepped up to her sister. “Merlin’s beard,
Astoria! We have lost! Our parents are dead. Tracey’s parents are dead.
Draco’s family is dead. Theo’s family is dead. Pansy’s family is dead. All
killed by mudbloods! The Ministry is a shell, what Aurors and Hit-Wizards they
have left are barely older than us! We have lost the war!”
‘blood traitors’: The mudbloods would have massacred us. You, me, and any
purebloods they could find.” She stepped up to her sister. “Merlin’s beard,
Astoria! We have lost! Our parents are dead. Tracey’s parents are dead.
Draco’s family is dead. Theo’s family is dead. Pansy’s family is dead. All
killed by mudbloods! The Ministry is a shell, what Aurors and Hit-Wizards they
have left are barely older than us! We have lost the war!”
Astoria was crying now, shaking her head. Daphne felt tears run down her
cheeks as well, but ignored them. “So many of us, the Old Families, have been
killed already, and yet, Malfoy wanted to murder even more! Even if we managed
to somehow win the next war, which of us would be left? What would be left of
Britain?”
cheeks as well, but ignored them. “So many of us, the Old Families, have been
killed already, and yet, Malfoy wanted to murder even more! Even if we managed
to somehow win the next war, which of us would be left? What would be left of
Britain?”
She took a deep breath. “Do you think I like seeing Granger in the Wizengamot?
Hearing her talk? I don’t! She murdered our parents! But there’s nothing I can
do about it. Nothing that wouldn’t cause even more death and destruction.
Nothing that wouldn’t kill you as well!
Hearing her talk? I don’t! She murdered our parents! But there’s nothing I can
do about it. Nothing that wouldn’t cause even more death and destruction.
Nothing that wouldn’t kill you as well!
“We lost, Astoria. We pushed the mudbloods too far, and they crushed us. And
if we don’t accept it, if we try to fight them, then they’ll kill us all.” She
wiped the tears from her face. “That’s why I went to Black. That’s why I
betrayed Malfoy. Because I want to live. Because I want you to live!”
if we don’t accept it, if we try to fight them, then they’ll kill us all.” She
wiped the tears from her face. “That’s why I went to Black. That’s why I
betrayed Malfoy. Because I want to live. Because I want you to live!”
“But… but our parents!”
Daphne shook her head. “Our parents wouldn’t want us to die. Not for them, not
for Malfoy, not for anyone. They would want us to live, and we will live.”
for Malfoy, not for anyone. They would want us to live, and we will live.”
She gathered her sister in her arms, and held her until she stopped sobbing.
---
**London, No. 12 Grimmauld Place, April 18th, 1997**
Hermione Granger found Sirius in his living room. To her surprise, he was
alone.
alone.
“Vivienne’s visiting her family,” he said — he must have caught her glancing
around. “Can I offer you a drink?” He pointed at the bottle on the low table.
around. “Can I offer you a drink?” He pointed at the bottle on the low table.
She shook her head, then brushed a stray lock out of her face. She might have
to cut her hair again, she idly noted — unless she wanted to let it grow out
once more.
to cut her hair again, she idly noted — unless she wanted to let it grow out
once more.
“We should be celebrating Malfoy and Runcorn’s deaths!”
“We already celebrated their defeat.” She had no wish to celebrate their
executions.
executions.
He huffed, and refilled his own glass. “Where’s Harry?”
“He’s running another exercise with Ron and the new Resistance recruits.” New
Resistance members, she silently corrected herself as she sat down in a seat
herself. “He’ll be here for dinner.”
Resistance members, she silently corrected herself as she sat down in a seat
herself. “He’ll be here for dinner.”
“Working them hard, huh?” His grin implied another meaning.
She ignored it. His whole attitude seemed a bit forced. Exaggerated. “Our
recruits have finished training with muggle weapons, but they lack experience
with magical combat. Harry and Ron were taught by Moody, and can teach others
what they know.” Part of it, at least — nothing could really replace combat
experience.
recruits have finished training with muggle weapons, but they lack experience
with magical combat. Harry and Ron were taught by Moody, and can teach others
what they know.” Part of it, at least — nothing could really replace combat
experience.
“Ah! Preparing for our invasion of Jamaica?”
She rolled her eyes, but didn’t correct him. “Of course. The better we
prepare, the less trouble we’ll have.” And the fewer casualties they would
suffer. “Speaking of preparation… did you talk to the Department of
Mysteries?”
prepare, the less trouble we’ll have.” And the fewer casualties they would
suffer. “Speaking of preparation… did you talk to the Department of
Mysteries?”
She saw him wince. “I did. But the Unspeakables are living up to their name.
Or they would be, if they were called the ‘Unmovables’. They categorically
refused to teach anyone outside the Department how to track their members.”
Or they would be, if they were called the ‘Unmovables’. They categorically
refused to teach anyone outside the Department how to track their members.”
Hermione nodded. She had expected that — in their place, she wouldn’t allow it
either. And Sirius knew that, too. “So…?”
either. And Sirius knew that, too. “So…?”
He frowned at her. “They offered to send one of them along, but I had to tell
the Head Unspeakable about our plans.”
the Head Unspeakable about our plans.”
She nodded. She would have preferred not to tell anyone outside their group,
but that couldn’t be avoided. At least Dumbledore had trusted Saul Croaker. To
some degree, at least.
but that couldn’t be avoided. At least Dumbledore had trusted Saul Croaker. To
some degree, at least.
“So, we’ll have a spy coming along who will report on our tactics and talents
to his superiors,” Sirius said.
to his superiors,” Sirius said.
There was an obvious solution to that problem, but it would create more
problems with the Unspeakables. She sighed. “We don’t have any choice. And I’m
certain that they already know a lot about us.”
problems with the Unspeakables. She sighed. “We don’t have any choice. And I’m
certain that they already know a lot about us.”
“Some things they don’t know, though. Like Harry’s wand. If they find out just
what he is wielding…”
what he is wielding…”
She nodded. The Department of Mysteries was known to collect all sorts of
artefacts and dark items. If they realised Harry had the Elder Wand — and they
would, should Harry have to wield it where the spy could see it — they’d try
anything to get it. And she knew Sirius would kill to protect Harry. “There
are alternatives to killing.”
artefacts and dark items. If they realised Harry had the Elder Wand — and they
would, should Harry have to wield it where the spy could see it — they’d try
anything to get it. And she knew Sirius would kill to protect Harry. “There
are alternatives to killing.”
“We’re not going to hand it over. Harry needs it to protect himself.
Especially if everyone sees him as Dumbledore’s successor. And Obliviation
might not work. The Unspeakables have warped minds.” He chuckled.
Especially if everyone sees him as Dumbledore’s successor. And Obliviation
might not work. The Unspeakables have warped minds.” He chuckled.
She narrowed her eyes at him.
He shrugged. “They’ll expect such things — since they would use the same
tactics — so we can assume they’ve taken measures against Obliviation. Maybe
they’ll set up some memory delivery service or whatever.”
tactics — so we can assume they’ve taken measures against Obliviation. Maybe
they’ll set up some memory delivery service or whatever.”
“That might make killing him useless as well,” she pointed out.
“Only if they have somehow managed to make it all work without actually
drawing out the memory and storing it in a vial. Which isn’t impossible, of
course.” Sirius shrugged.
drawing out the memory and storing it in a vial. Which isn’t impossible, of
course.” Sirius shrugged.
“We might make him sign a contract.” Though that could be broken by a skilled
Curse-Breaker. “But the best plan would be to ‘keep him safe’.” And, of
course, be ready to deal with him at the first sign of betrayal.
Curse-Breaker. “But the best plan would be to ‘keep him safe’.” And, of
course, be ready to deal with him at the first sign of betrayal.
Sirius chuckled. “Good idea. Keep him away from any fighting, for his own
safety, of course.” He grew serious again. “Speaking of staying safe…”
safety, of course.” He grew serious again. “Speaking of staying safe…”
She met his eyes. “Yes?”
“You know you shouldn’t go, right? You’re too important to risk your life like
that. You’re the leader for the muggleborns.”
that. You’re the leader for the muggleborns.”
“As the leader of the majority of the Wizengamot, you would know all about
that,” she retorted. He was right, of course — she shouldn’t go. But she
wouldn’t let Harry and Ron risk their lives without her.
that,” she retorted. He was right, of course — she shouldn’t go. But she
wouldn’t let Harry and Ron risk their lives without her.
“Touché.” Sirius smiled rather sadly. He wouldn’t let Harry risk his life
alone either. “But we need the boost to our reputation finding a cure for the
Withering Curse will give us. Or fighting houngans and winning.”
alone either. “But we need the boost to our reputation finding a cure for the
Withering Curse will give us. Or fighting houngans and winning.”
A good excuse, she thought as she nodded. Neither of them said anything for a
while. Finally, she broke the silence. “Did you talk to Aberforth yet?”
while. Finally, she broke the silence. “Did you talk to Aberforth yet?”
He winced. “Yes. It was harder than I thought, since, apparently, as I’ve sort
of inherited Dumbledore’s Order and gained control over the Wizengamot, I
don’t need his help any more.” He sighed. “You should have talked to him.”
of inherited Dumbledore’s Order and gained control over the Wizengamot, I
don’t need his help any more.” He sighed. “You should have talked to him.”
She shrugged. She had been very busy. As long as Aberforth was on board, it
didn’t matter; the old wizard wouldn’t have agreed to help them if he didn’t
want to. “He might like to persuade the Unspeakable that they’d be safest far
from the fighting.”
didn’t matter; the old wizard wouldn’t have agreed to help them if he didn’t
want to. “He might like to persuade the Unspeakable that they’d be safest far
from the fighting.”
Sirius laughed. “I’m rather certain he’d like that.”
She was rather certain too. And looking forward to it.
---
**Near Spanish Town, Jamaica, April 18th, 1997**
A wizard of lesser intellect would have identity issues after ten days of
breaking into the mambo’s mind and experiencing countless memories as if they
were his own, of this Augustus Rookwood was certain. He glanced at the
drooling witch on the floor of his tent. It had taken him five days to break
her resistance — but unfortunately, doing so had broken her mind as well, and
he had spent the next five days trying to find the memories he wanted among
the chaotic torrent of other, useless memories which filled her mind.
breaking into the mambo’s mind and experiencing countless memories as if they
were his own, of this Augustus Rookwood was certain. He glanced at the
drooling witch on the floor of his tent. It had taken him five days to break
her resistance — but unfortunately, doing so had broken her mind as well, and
he had spent the next five days trying to find the memories he wanted among
the chaotic torrent of other, useless memories which filled her mind.
He had made progress, of course — a wizard of his skill would not be stymied
by such a task. He knew where the Library of Souls was located. He knew what
knowledge was contained by a number of the skulls inside it, although not yet
the knowledge he sought. But the defences of the Library still eluded him for
the most part.
by such a task. He knew where the Library of Souls was located. He knew what
knowledge was contained by a number of the skulls inside it, although not yet
the knowledge he sought. But the defences of the Library still eluded him for
the most part.
He was aware that after the break-in a few months ago, the houngans had
increased the LIbrary’s security. They had taken measures to ensure that the
method used then — using a houngan under the Imperius to lead the thief
inside, past the traps and defences — wouldn’t work any more. To think
Dumbledore had used an Unforgivable… if only he had any proof of that.
increased the LIbrary’s security. They had taken measures to ensure that the
method used then — using a houngan under the Imperius to lead the thief
inside, past the traps and defences — wouldn’t work any more. To think
Dumbledore had used an Unforgivable… if only he had any proof of that.
But he had to focus on the older defences… He hadn’t found much about them,
yet. And he needed to know about them in order to find a way to bypass them.
Frowning, he shook his head. The mambo had the knowledge he needed; all he had
to do was find it.
yet. And he needed to know about them in order to find a way to bypass them.
Frowning, he shook his head. The mambo had the knowledge he needed; all he had
to do was find it.
He stood up and walked over to his captive. A flick of his wand summoned a
carafe of water, which he made the witch drink, and a few chocolate frogs
which he fed her. He had tried to weaken her by withholding food and water,
but, while it had helped to break her resistance, it had made it harder to
find the memories he needed afterwards because her broken mind focused on food
and water if she was hungry. While she was still licking her lips after
devouring the chocolate, he pointed his wand at her.
carafe of water, which he made the witch drink, and a few chocolate frogs
which he fed her. He had tried to weaken her by withholding food and water,
but, while it had helped to break her resistance, it had made it harder to
find the memories he needed afterwards because her broken mind focused on food
and water if she was hungry. While she was still licking her lips after
devouring the chocolate, he pointed his wand at her.
“Legilimens!”
Chapter 63: Incursion
=====================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 63: Incursion**
‘*Whether or not the incursion into Jamaica in April 1997 by the Order of the
Phoenix and the Muggleborn Resistance was an invasion or a raid is as
contested among my colleagues as another, related, question — whether or not
it was part of the Second Blood War or a continuation of the centuries-old
conflict between Wizarding Britain and Jamaica. In my opinion, these questions
cannot be answered without first determining the objectives of the incursion.
And while, according to the British records, the stated objective was to
secure a cure for the Withering Curse, as well as to apprehend the fugitive
Death Eater Augustus Rookwood, it is obvious that the endeavour was also,
perhaps even primarily, planned to punish Jamaica for the actions taken by
their delegate, John Reid, during the ICW’s inspection of Wizarding Britain.
And since that was the direct result of the devastation wrought by the Second
Blood War, the attack on Jamaica should be considered part of that war. This
is further supported by the fact that, at the time, Wizarding Britain no
longer had any territorial ambitions with regards to Jamaica. Even
Dumbledore’s visit in 1957 had been motivated by the abhorrent practices of
the houngans rather than by any desire to retake the island.’*
Phoenix and the Muggleborn Resistance was an invasion or a raid is as
contested among my colleagues as another, related, question — whether or not
it was part of the Second Blood War or a continuation of the centuries-old
conflict between Wizarding Britain and Jamaica. In my opinion, these questions
cannot be answered without first determining the objectives of the incursion.
And while, according to the British records, the stated objective was to
secure a cure for the Withering Curse, as well as to apprehend the fugitive
Death Eater Augustus Rookwood, it is obvious that the endeavour was also,
perhaps even primarily, planned to punish Jamaica for the actions taken by
their delegate, John Reid, during the ICW’s inspection of Wizarding Britain.
And since that was the direct result of the devastation wrought by the Second
Blood War, the attack on Jamaica should be considered part of that war. This
is further supported by the fact that, at the time, Wizarding Britain no
longer had any territorial ambitions with regards to Jamaica. Even
Dumbledore’s visit in 1957 had been motivated by the abhorrent practices of
the houngans rather than by any desire to retake the island.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**London, Newham, April 25th, 1997**
Hermione Granger caught herself copying the Major’s usual ‘inspection pose’
and forced herself to slowly relax a little as she observed the Resistance
members present in the expanded living room of the hitherto unused safe house
in Newham. They were getting ready for the trip to Jamaica, or rather, they
were making last-minute adjustments to their kit in order to keep busy until
their departure. Most of them, at least. Some, like Seamus, were actually
cramming more gear into their pockets.
and forced herself to slowly relax a little as she observed the Resistance
members present in the expanded living room of the hitherto unused safe house
in Newham. They were getting ready for the trip to Jamaica, or rather, they
were making last-minute adjustments to their kit in order to keep busy until
their departure. Most of them, at least. Some, like Seamus, were actually
cramming more gear into their pockets.
“If muggle scans can detect explosives in magically sealed pockets we’ll be in
big trouble,” Harry mumbled next to her.
big trouble,” Harry mumbled next to her.
“They can’t,” she whispered back. “And we’re bypassing the checks anyway.”
“Why is he stuffing so many explosives into his pockets anyway?” Ron asked
from her other side. “He can take a small sample, and use the Doubling Charm
to get whatever quantity he needs.”
from her other side. “He can take a small sample, and use the Doubling Charm
to get whatever quantity he needs.”
Hermione sighed. “He wants to be ready at a moment’s notice, or so he claims.”
Privately, she thought Seamus simply liked explosives (and explosions) a bit
too much. “And to be fair, it is safer to pull explosives out of your pockets
as you need them, instead of creating a heap of them in front of you.”
Privately, she thought Seamus simply liked explosives (and explosions) a bit
too much. “And to be fair, it is safer to pull explosives out of your pockets
as you need them, instead of creating a heap of them in front of you.”
“I’m not convinced that Seamus carrying so many explosives with him is in any
way safe to begin with,” Harry grumbled. “Least of all in a plane.”
way safe to begin with,” Harry grumbled. “Least of all in a plane.”
“He knows his way around explosives,” she retorted.
“That’s not reassuring,” Ron added. “Quite the contrary.”
She was about to tell the two boys to cut it out when she felt the
communication mirror in her pocket vibrate. Pulling it out and tapping it
revealed the smiling face of Sirius.
communication mirror in her pocket vibrate. Pulling it out and tapping it
revealed the smiling face of Sirius.
“We’re about to arrive, tell your people not to shoot us!”
“They won’t.” She raised her voice. “Sinclair, Emily — the Order’s about to
arrive!”
arrive!”
The two Resistance members on guard duty called out an acknowledgement and
Hermione walked towards the door, followed by Harry and Ron.
Hermione walked towards the door, followed by Harry and Ron.
Despite the call ahead by Sirius, Hermione checked through a spyglass and with
a Human-presence-revealing spell before opening the door. Sirius was the first
in, with a wide grin on his face.
a Human-presence-revealing spell before opening the door. Sirius was the first
in, with a wide grin on his face.
“Hello, everyone!”
“Sirius, what are you wearing?” Harry voiced what Hermione was thinking.
“A muggle outfit suitable for the jungle, as requested!” the older wizard
cheerfully announced, tapping his pith helmet. “Stylish too!”
cheerfully announced, tapping his pith helmet. “Stylish too!”
While Harry berated his godfather, Hermione greeted the rest of the Order
group. At least most of them were wearing more sensible and, especially, more
up to date muggle clothes instead of an outfit Dr Livingstone would have worn.
More sensible didn’t mean that much, of course — while Remus and Bill were
wearing sturdy travelling clothes, probably drawing on the latter’s experience
in Egypt — Vivienne, Fleur and Tonks were dressed as if they were headed to a
tropical beach and were probably using warming charms.
group. At least most of them were wearing more sensible and, especially, more
up to date muggle clothes instead of an outfit Dr Livingstone would have worn.
More sensible didn’t mean that much, of course — while Remus and Bill were
wearing sturdy travelling clothes, probably drawing on the latter’s experience
in Egypt — Vivienne, Fleur and Tonks were dressed as if they were headed to a
tropical beach and were probably using warming charms.
Aberforth was wearing his usual robes. “I’ll transfigure my robes when I need
to, not a minute before,” the old wizard grumbled as he entered. “I’m too old
to dress like a fool.”
to, not a minute before,” the old wizard grumbled as he entered. “I’m too old
to dress like a fool.”
“I shall follow his example,” the figure wearing a hooded cloak next to him
said. “I’m Brown. John Brown,” the Unspeakable added, nodding to her.
said. “I’m Brown. John Brown,” the Unspeakable added, nodding to her.
“Welcome to the Resistance,” Hermione said. “I assume you know how to behave
among muggles.”
among muggles.”
“Yes.” The man’s voice didn’t seem to have been magically altered, but that
didn’t necessarily mean anything.
didn’t necessarily mean anything.
“Good. We’ll be taking a muggle aeroplane to travel to the Caribbean, and
passing through muggle airports.”
passing through muggle airports.”
“I’m looking forward to the experience.”
---
“Listen up!” Hermione snapped “We’re leaving for the airport in five minutes.
Is everyone ready? Justin?”
Is everyone ready? Justin?”
“Yes.” She hadn’t expected anything else — he had organised the trip with her,
after all.
after all.
“Sally-Anne?”
“Yes.” The witch was already wearing her backpack.
“Seamus?”
“I was born ready!” He patted his pockets for emphasis.
She didn’t bother to glare at him. “Tania?”
“Yes.” Tania gave her a short nod.
“Mary-Jane?”
“Yes.” The survivor of the Avengers’ attempt to capture the Resistance even
sounded eager.
sounded eager.
Eric, Emily, Anna, Gary, Celia, Sinclair and Timothy were ready as well,
though they didn’t manage to hide their nervousness as well as the more
experienced members.
though they didn’t manage to hide their nervousness as well as the more
experienced members.
“Alright. Let’s go!” The plane wouldn’t leave without them, but Hermione hated
to be late. It wouldn’t be a good start to the mission if they couldn’t keep
to their schedule from the start.
to be late. It wouldn’t be a good start to the mission if they couldn’t keep
to their schedule from the start.
---
**Heathrow Airport, London, April 25th, 1997**
Standing inside the muggle hall — the hangar, they called it — Ron Weasley
eyed the muggle aeroplane with both interest and a bit of apprehension while
the Resistance were climbing inside it. It was just too damn big in his
opinion — how could something that size fly without magic? He clenched his
teeth and drew a hissing breath. Muggles flew in aeroplanes all the time.
There was no reason to worry.
eyed the muggle aeroplane with both interest and a bit of apprehension while
the Resistance were climbing inside it. It was just too damn big in his
opinion — how could something that size fly without magic? He clenched his
teeth and drew a hissing breath. Muggles flew in aeroplanes all the time.
There was no reason to worry.
“Don’t worry, Ron,” Hermione said in a low voice next to him, “Aeroplanes are
among the safest ways to travel. Far more people die in traffic accidents than
in aeroplanes.”
among the safest ways to travel. Far more people die in traffic accidents than
in aeroplanes.”
He forced himself to smile at her, even though her comment was not exactly
reassuring. Quite the opposite, actually. “It’s just the first time I’m flying
on a plane.”
reassuring. Quite the opposite, actually. “It’s just the first time I’m flying
on a plane.”
“Mine too,” Harry said. “My relatives weren’t much for foreign vacations.”
Ron nodded. That was normal for him — the only time he and his family had left
Britain on vacation had been the trip to Egypt in 1993, and that had only been
possible since Dad had won the Daily Prophet Grand Prize Galleon Draw that
year. Which reminded him… “How much does this trip cost anyway?”
Britain on vacation had been the trip to Egypt in 1993, and that had only been
possible since Dad had won the Daily Prophet Grand Prize Galleon Draw that
year. Which reminded him… “How much does this trip cost anyway?”
“It’s actually not that much more expensive than buying tickets for a regular
flight at short notice for everyone, and much more convenient for our
mission,” Hermione explained.
flight at short notice for everyone, and much more convenient for our
mission,” Hermione explained.
“Ah.” He still had no idea how much gold Sirius and maybe Justin were spending
on the plane, but if it was what muggles paid for a vacation, then that was
probably not too expensive. To change the topic, he glanced at the
Unspeakable, who was standing apart from everyone else. “Do you think he’s a
muggleborn? He doesn’t look nervous.”
on the plane, but if it was what muggles paid for a vacation, then that was
probably not too expensive. To change the topic, he glanced at the
Unspeakable, who was standing apart from everyone else. “Do you think he’s a
muggleborn? He doesn’t look nervous.”
“He might be. He certainly managed to transfigure his robes into decent muggle
clothes for passing through security,” Hermione said.
clothes for passing through security,” Hermione said.
“That might just be what he wants us to think,” Harry retorted. “Claiming to
be muggleborn out of the blue would be too blatant, but letting us come to
that conclusion would be more subtle.”
be muggleborn out of the blue would be too blatant, but letting us come to
that conclusion would be more subtle.”
Ron nodded in agreement. “He could simply have copied the clothes from a
muggle, so we lower our guard around him.”
muggle, so we lower our guard around him.”
Hermione mumbled something — probably ‘Moody’ — but didn’t contradict them.
“Alright, I’ll see you inside,” she said, and walked over to where the last of
the Resistance were entering the plane.
“Alright, I’ll see you inside,” she said, and walked over to where the last of
the Resistance were entering the plane.
“The other Order members are rather nervous,” Harry said after a moment.
Ron frowned and turned his head to look at them. They were nervous, he
realised, even Bill, who was normally unflappable. Fleur and Vivienne were
eyeing the plane with open apprehension, even. Only Aberforth was scowling as
usual.
realised, even Bill, who was normally unflappable. Fleur and Vivienne were
eyeing the plane with open apprehension, even. Only Aberforth was scowling as
usual.
Oddly, seeing others show their fear made him feel less nervous. “Let’s show
them how it’s done!” He slung his bag over his shoulder and started walking
towards the stairs leading up to the door of the plane.
them how it’s done!” He slung his bag over his shoulder and started walking
towards the stairs leading up to the door of the plane.
---
Half an hour after ‘take-off’, Ron had come to the conclusion that flying the
muggle way was boring. Even less interesting than taking the Hogwarts Express
since Hermione had stressed very firmly that they weren’t allowed to do any
magic inside the plane. And as they were not sitting in compartments, but all
in the same room, you couldn’t even have some privacy for whatever.
muggle way was boring. Even less interesting than taking the Hogwarts Express
since Hermione had stressed very firmly that they weren’t allowed to do any
magic inside the plane. And as they were not sitting in compartments, but all
in the same room, you couldn’t even have some privacy for whatever.
At least everyone seemed to have taken the order to abstain from using magic
to heart. It might be going a bit too far — most spells wouldn’t do anything
to the plane — but it would only take one mishap, or unintended effect, to
cause a catastrophe. And the Order members were nervous enough already. If the
twins had been allowed to come along… but they didn’t have enough combat
experience and training with the Resistance compared to the others, or at
least that had been the official reason.
to heart. It might be going a bit too far — most spells wouldn’t do anything
to the plane — but it would only take one mishap, or unintended effect, to
cause a catastrophe. And the Order members were nervous enough already. If the
twins had been allowed to come along… but they didn’t have enough combat
experience and training with the Resistance compared to the others, or at
least that had been the official reason.
He leaned back, fiddling with his seat while waiting for his friends to return
to theirs. Hermione was walking down the aisles and checking with the rest of
the Resistance and Harry was a few rows over, talking to Sirius (and Vivienne,
who seemed to have permanently attached herself to the wizard’s arm for the
flight’s duration).
to theirs. Hermione was walking down the aisles and checking with the rest of
the Resistance and Harry was a few rows over, talking to Sirius (and Vivienne,
who seemed to have permanently attached herself to the wizard’s arm for the
flight’s duration).
He wished the in-flight movie Hermione had been talking about would start
soon.
soon.
---
**Lynden Pindling International Airport****, Nassau, Bahamas, April 25th,
1997**
1997**
“Yes! At last, we have escaped this contraption!”
Harry Potter, passing the flight attendant seeing them off at the door, shook
his head at Sirius’s antics, even though he shared the sentiment — he wouldn’t
miss being stuck inside a plane either. After flying on a broom for years,
being a passenger on a plane just wasn’t anything special. Though he wasn’t
about to rush out of the plane and kiss the ground.
his head at Sirius’s antics, even though he shared the sentiment — he wouldn’t
miss being stuck inside a plane either. After flying on a broom for years,
being a passenger on a plane just wasn’t anything special. Though he wasn’t
about to rush out of the plane and kiss the ground.
He heard a giggle behind him, and a glance over his shoulder revealed the
flight attendant trying to hide her smile. “He doesn’t fly very often,” Harry
said.
flight attendant trying to hide her smile. “He doesn’t fly very often,” Harry
said.
“I noticed,” she answered. “There were quite a few first-timers today, right?”
“Yes.” Harry confirmed, before joining his godfather and Vivienne on the
tarmac while the rest of their group started to follow him down. The air
wasn’t as hot as he had expected, a bit over twenty degrees. Jamaica would be
hotter but less humid, he thought.
tarmac while the rest of their group started to follow him down. The air
wasn’t as hot as he had expected, a bit over twenty degrees. Jamaica would be
hotter but less humid, he thought.
“Ah, Harry! We’re finally free again!” Sirius spread his arms wide and beamed
at him. He sounded honestly relieved, Harry noticed, and didn’t seem to
putting on an act. But why… Azkaban, he suddenly realised. His godfather had
spent over ten years in a cell there. Of course he would have issues with
being confined to his seat for hours!
at him. He sounded honestly relieved, Harry noticed, and didn’t seem to
putting on an act. But why… Azkaban, he suddenly realised. His godfather had
spent over ten years in a cell there. Of course he would have issues with
being confined to his seat for hours!
And in a few hours, they’d have to board the next charter plane — a cargo
plane this time. Harry winced when Sirius turned around to embrace Vivienne.
He knew that his godfather was only here because of Harry. He sighed and slung
his backpack over his shoulder as the others filed down the gangway.
plane this time. Harry winced when Sirius turned around to embrace Vivienne.
He knew that his godfather was only here because of Harry. He sighed and slung
his backpack over his shoulder as the others filed down the gangway.
---
**North of Jamaica****, April 25th, 1997**
“We’re approaching Jamaica and will enter the island’s air space in fifteen
minutes.”
minutes.”
Harry Potter checked the time when he heard the pilot’s announcement. A
quarter to midnight — they were right on schedule. He stashed his watch inside
his pocket again. When Hermione stood up and stepped into the middle of the
compartment, between the cargo pallets fixed there, he shifted his weight
around on the fold-out chair that served as a seat to look at the rest of
their group. Everyone was wearing dark fatigues and harnesses, straight out of
an action movie.
quarter to midnight — they were right on schedule. He stashed his watch inside
his pocket again. When Hermione stood up and stepped into the middle of the
compartment, between the cargo pallets fixed there, he shifted his weight
around on the fold-out chair that served as a seat to look at the rest of
their group. Everyone was wearing dark fatigues and harnesses, straight out of
an action movie.
“Alright! Everyone, get ready!” the witch said.
“Please put your seat in the upright position and fasten your seatbelts,”
Harry heard Seamus whisper, which prompted a chuckle from the other Resistance
members near the Irish wizard, and a glare from Hermione.
Harry heard Seamus whisper, which prompted a chuckle from the other Resistance
members near the Irish wizard, and a glare from Hermione.
“Check your gear again — we’re not getting back on the plane if you forgot
something!”
something!”
“Yes, Mum!” another quipped, though the humour sounded a little forced to
Harry. He let his gaze wander and noticed that, in contrast to the flight to
the Bahamas, the Resistance members seemed to be more nervous than the Order
members. Understandable, of course — they were about to enter the houngans’
country.
Harry. He let his gaze wander and noticed that, in contrast to the flight to
the Bahamas, the Resistance members seemed to be more nervous than the Order
members. Understandable, of course — they were about to enter the houngans’
country.
“Ah, finally!” Ron said in a low voice next to him. “I can’t wait to leave the
plane! There wasn’t even a movie or a snack bar this time!” He looked honestly
eager, too.
plane! There wasn’t even a movie or a snack bar this time!” He looked honestly
eager, too.
“No cute flight attendant either,” Sirius chimed in from his other side.
Vivienne, next to him, rolled her eyes.
Vivienne, next to him, rolled her eyes.
“And we’re about to jump out of a perfectly good plane,” Harry said. No one
laughed. Instead they nodded.
laughed. Instead they nodded.
“Good,” Ron said. “Hermione told me that the take-off and landing were the
most dangerous parts of a muggle flight. I’d rather ride my broom.”
most dangerous parts of a muggle flight. I’d rather ride my broom.”
Harry could agree with that.
“I prefer to fly myself,” Vivienne cut in. The Veela looked rather smug.
“Ten minutes to drop location,” the pilot announced.
“Won’t the muggles wonder about this?” Remus asked, nodding towards the
cockpit. He was still looking a bit worn from the full moon a few days ago.
cockpit. He was still looking a bit worn from the full moon a few days ago.
“No. They think we’re muggle mercenaries doing a parachute drop,” Ron said.
“Hermione hired them through the Major.”
“Hermione hired them through the Major.”
“What’s a parachute?” Sirius asked.
“A muggle invention to safely fall from great heights,” Harry started to
explain.
explain.
“Imagine a giant umbrella,” Ron cut his explanation short.
“Ah!”
“Everyone, put on your backpacks!” Hermione ordered. “Remember: If you get
lost, home in on our beacon!”
lost, home in on our beacon!”
Those who hadn’t put on their backpacks — made-up to look like parachutes to
fool the muggle flight crew — hastily did so, including Harry. While Hermione
and Justin went down the aisles and checked the straps, he again patted the
pocket where the Elder Wand was stored. He was certain he would have to use
the wand soon. Rookwood was a dangerous enemy, having survived so long while
being hunted by entire countries, and the houngans… he shivered, remembering
what Reid had done. If they met that houngan again they’d make him pay.
fool the muggle flight crew — hastily did so, including Harry. While Hermione
and Justin went down the aisles and checked the straps, he again patted the
pocket where the Elder Wand was stored. He was certain he would have to use
the wand soon. Rookwood was a dangerous enemy, having survived so long while
being hunted by entire countries, and the houngans… he shivered, remembering
what Reid had done. If they met that houngan again they’d make him pay.
The co-pilot entered the compartment and walked down to the back of the plane.
“We’ll reach the drop zone in five minutes,” he announced. “I’m lowering the
ramp now.” The man pushed a button at the back, and the ramp started to
descend, revealing the dark night sky outside.
“We’ll reach the drop zone in five minutes,” he announced. “I’m lowering the
ramp now.” The man pushed a button at the back, and the ramp started to
descend, revealing the dark night sky outside.
“Line up!” Hermione yelled over the howling of the wind that filled the
compartment.
compartment.
Harry was the first at the ramp, with Ron at his side. If he squinted he could
just make out the contours of the land below. Or so he thought. He recalled
once again how the landing zone looked from above — it was near an inland
lake, supposedly easy to find from the air.
just make out the contours of the land below. Or so he thought. He recalled
once again how the landing zone looked from above — it was near an inland
lake, supposedly easy to find from the air.
“We’re above the drop zone!” the pilot announced.
“Go!” the co-pilot shouted. “Go! Go! Go!”
Harry didn’t hesitate and ran down the ramp, flinging himself into the air. As
soon as he was clear of the plane he pulled out his shrunken broom and
straddled it. The moment he felt the Firebolt react to his commands, turning
his freefall into flight, he wanted to yell with delight.
soon as he was clear of the plane he pulled out his shrunken broom and
straddled it. The moment he felt the Firebolt react to his commands, turning
his freefall into flight, he wanted to yell with delight.
This was flying!
He twisted and rolled a little, before pulling up and slowing his descent. Ron
appeared at his side a few seconds later, on his own Firebolt, grinning
widely. Sirius and the rest of the Order followed quickly afterward, with the
two Veela in their transformed forms, gliding with their wings. Under a nearly
full moon, the Order formed up with them, followed by the Resistance members.
appeared at his side a few seconds later, on his own Firebolt, grinning
widely. Sirius and the rest of the Order followed quickly afterward, with the
two Veela in their transformed forms, gliding with their wings. Under a nearly
full moon, the Order formed up with them, followed by the Resistance members.
The Resistance were not as used to such manoeuvres, and Harry saw one of them
lose his grip on his broom. Harry dived after the screaming, flailing wizard,
hand outstretched as if he were chasing the snitch. He only took a few seconds
to reach the man — Gary — but it took a few more seconds for Gary to stop
flailing, and grab Harry’s hand.
lose his grip on his broom. Harry dived after the screaming, flailing wizard,
hand outstretched as if he were chasing the snitch. He only took a few seconds
to reach the man — Gary — but it took a few more seconds for Gary to stop
flailing, and grab Harry’s hand.
“I lost my broom!” the wizard yelled into Harry’s ear as soon as he was seated
behind him on the Firebolt.
behind him on the Firebolt.
“I saw!” Harry responded, already pulling up. He couldn’t see the others, not
at this distance and in this light, but… there was Ron!
at this distance and in this light, but… there was Ron!
His friend flew towards them, holding out a second broom. “Here’s your broom,”
he said. “I managed to summon it.”
he said. “I managed to summon it.”
He could have summoned Gary’s backpack, and Gary with it, instead of diving
after him, Harry realised, feeling a bit sheepish. But as long as everyone was
safe… Gary managed to switch to his own broom without taking another dive, at
least.
after him, Harry realised, feeling a bit sheepish. But as long as everyone was
safe… Gary managed to switch to his own broom without taking another dive, at
least.
“We got Gary,” Harry reported via the radio. He looked up, but even though the
moon was still almost full, he couldn’t spot the rest of the group.
moon was still almost full, he couldn’t spot the rest of the group.
“Good,” Hermione answered crisply. “Disillusion yourselves and proceed to the
landing zone!”
landing zone!”
---
**Near Moneague Lake, Jamaica, April 25th, 1997**
Hermione Granger followed Justin’s marker as they made their way to the
landing zone near the Moneague Lake. At least, she was reasonably certain that
they were on the right course; none of them had been there before, but they
had studied the maps and the lay of the land beneath her corresponded to what
she had memorised. She was still relieved when they flew over the lake,
confirming that they were on course.
landing zone near the Moneague Lake. At least, she was reasonably certain that
they were on the right course; none of them had been there before, but they
had studied the maps and the lay of the land beneath her corresponded to what
she had memorised. She was still relieved when they flew over the lake,
confirming that they were on course.
A few minutes later, they landed in a small clearing. Justin was already
casting Muggle-Repelling Charms, as planned. Hermione dismounted, stored her
broom, and started to count the people present as they formed a perimeter.
Three were missing. She pushed the button of her radio. “Harry? Ron? Where are
you?”
casting Muggle-Repelling Charms, as planned. Hermione dismounted, stored her
broom, and started to count the people present as they formed a perimeter.
Three were missing. She pushed the button of her radio. “Harry? Ron? Where are
you?”
“We’re coming. We’ve had some trouble navigating,” Harry answered.
“Do we need to use the radio beacon?” That would probably get the attention of
the muggles too, Hermione knew. They would be gone before any muggle force
could reach them, but reports might draw attention from the houngans.
the muggles too, Hermione knew. They would be gone before any muggle force
could reach them, but reports might draw attention from the houngans.
“No, no. We’re following the road south; we’ll find it as soon as we reach the
lake.”
lake.”
“Alright.” Her voice didn’t betray how relieved she was that Harry and Ron had
managed to save Gary. They had trained for this, but obviously not enough if
Gary had panicked like that, and forgot to simply summon his broom back to his
hand while falling. Maybe they should have landed in the plane… no. The risk
of getting spotted by spies — compelled muggles, or disguised wizards — was
too great. After two attacks by Rookwood, the houngans would be on high alert.
They would be focusing on covering the coast, since smugglers tended to use
ships and boats, according to her information, but they would also be
observing the airports — even if only to spot muggleborn children of tourists
to kidnap, if the latest complaints to the ICW were to be believed.
managed to save Gary. They had trained for this, but obviously not enough if
Gary had panicked like that, and forgot to simply summon his broom back to his
hand while falling. Maybe they should have landed in the plane… no. The risk
of getting spotted by spies — compelled muggles, or disguised wizards — was
too great. After two attacks by Rookwood, the houngans would be on high alert.
They would be focusing on covering the coast, since smugglers tended to use
ships and boats, according to her information, but they would also be
observing the airports — even if only to spot muggleborn children of tourists
to kidnap, if the latest complaints to the ICW were to be believed.
Hermione took a look at the markers floating around the clearing. “Memorise
this location! It’s Rally Spot Lake One!” she ordered. They needed a few
locations they could apparate to, in case they were split up — or had to
retreat from a fight.
this location! It’s Rally Spot Lake One!” she ordered. They needed a few
locations they could apparate to, in case they were split up — or had to
retreat from a fight.
“Justin, Sally-Anne — centre of clearing.” She was sounding like the Major,
she realised, frowning.
she realised, frowning.
Her friends’ markers converged on her. She lowered her voice. “We’ll establish
the caches with the Zodiacs and the aid station next.” Those would be Justin
and Sally-Anne’s responsibilities respectively. She hoped they wouldn’t need
either, but she doubted that they would be that lucky.
the caches with the Zodiacs and the aid station next.” Those would be Justin
and Sally-Anne’s responsibilities respectively. She hoped they wouldn’t need
either, but she doubted that they would be that lucky.
“I bet Brown is taking notes,” Sally-Anne mumbled.
Hermione thought so too. That was why they would be establishing another set
of caches and an alternative aid station, too, without Brown knowing about
them.
of caches and an alternative aid station, too, without Brown knowing about
them.
Just in case the Unspeakable was captured. Or tried to backstab them and
escaped their prepared response.
escaped their prepared response.
She heard Harry on the radio again. “We’ve got visual of the landing zone,” he
announced.
announced.
She was too relieved to see her friends arrive — in a manner of speaking — to
be annoyed at him quoting some action movie, again.
be annoyed at him quoting some action movie, again.
---
**Near Guanaboa Vale, Jamaica, April 26th, 1997**
There was a rat nearby. Padfoot could smell it as he circled around their
temporary camp to check the ‘perimeter’. The huge dog growled — he hated rats.
One rat in particular, but others were not any better. But he could not track
down the creature; he had a task to do. An important one. He had to check for
enemies hiding in the underbrush. Enemies whom spells might miss, but his nose
wouldn’t.
temporary camp to check the ‘perimeter’. The huge dog growled — he hated rats.
One rat in particular, but others were not any better. But he could not track
down the creature; he had a task to do. An important one. He had to check for
enemies hiding in the underbrush. Enemies whom spells might miss, but his nose
wouldn’t.
Growling softly, he ignored the trail of the rat and continued his sweep
instead. Apart from more rats and one snake, he didn’t smell anything else. No
humans. And no rotting corpses, nor buried bones. Unlike the rats, he tracked
down and killed the snake, just in case it was spying for a parselmouth.
instead. Apart from more rats and one snake, he didn’t smell anything else. No
humans. And no rotting corpses, nor buried bones. Unlike the rats, he tracked
down and killed the snake, just in case it was spying for a parselmouth.
Padfoot changed back into Sirius Black before he stepped out of the underbrush
and into the area where the group had put up concealed wizard tents. Not many
— just four. And one of them was reserved for Brown and Aberforth. He spotted
Remus sitting in front of the ‘Order Tent’ as if he was watching the sunrise.
His best friend was looking less haggard now, or so Sirius thought — it always
helped when he had a task, something to care about.
and into the area where the group had put up concealed wizard tents. Not many
— just four. And one of them was reserved for Brown and Aberforth. He spotted
Remus sitting in front of the ‘Order Tent’ as if he was watching the sunrise.
His best friend was looking less haggard now, or so Sirius thought — it always
helped when he had a task, something to care about.
“All’s clear,” Sirius announced. “Just some rats and a snake around. I killed
the snake.”
the snake.”
Remus nodded. Sirius glanced over at the tent of the Unspeakable. “What’s he
doing?”
doing?”
“Resting, same as everyone else,” Remus answered. “Hermione and the others
don’t want to start tracking Rookwood with tired troops.”
don’t want to start tracking Rookwood with tired troops.”
“Ah.” Sirius grunted. He understood and agreed with the reasoning, but he
hated waiting. Hated waiting inside the tent even more. He wouldn’t be able to
spot anyone sneaking up on them. “I’ll inform the others.” He nodded at Remus
and walked over to the ‘command tent’, as Harry had called it.
hated waiting. Hated waiting inside the tent even more. He wouldn’t be able to
spot anyone sneaking up on them. “I’ll inform the others.” He nodded at Remus
and walked over to the ‘command tent’, as Harry had called it.
He stepped inside the tent, the slight tingle informing him that he was
passing through a ward, and found Harry and his friends inside, staring at a
table. At a map on a table. “Perimeter’s clear!” he announced, saluting like a
muggle. Only the other witch, Sally-Anne, giggled, though. But Harry at least
grinned.
passing through a ward, and found Harry and his friends inside, staring at a
table. At a map on a table. “Perimeter’s clear!” he announced, saluting like a
muggle. Only the other witch, Sally-Anne, giggled, though. But Harry at least
grinned.
“Good.” Hermione pointed at the map. “We’ve chosen the locations for tonight.
Given the range of Brown’s spell, this array will allow us to cover the entire
island with the minimum number of spells.”
Given the range of Brown’s spell, this array will allow us to cover the entire
island with the minimum number of spells.”
“I’m certain that he hasn’t told us how powerful his spell really is,” Sirius
said. Unspeakables never revealed their secrets; everyone knew that.
said. Unspeakables never revealed their secrets; everyone knew that.
Hermione shrugged. “We’ll still achieve the results we need. And,” she added
with a grin, “it gives us a few more opportunities to study his spell.”
with a grin, “it gives us a few more opportunities to study his spell.”
“And it will give him a few more opportunities to stab us in the back,” Sirius
retorted.
retorted.
“Aberforth will be watching him.” Harry shrugged.
Sirius hoped that that would be enough. He and his friends knew just how
dangerous Dumbledore’s brother was, but many still thought the man was a
wastrel, and a stain on his family.
dangerous Dumbledore’s brother was, but many still thought the man was a
wastrel, and a stain on his family.
Not unlike how many had seen, and still saw, Sirius himself.
---
**Dry Harbour Mountains, Jamaica, April 26th, 1997**
Sighing, Augustus Rookwood had to admit that the houngans knew how to protect
their Library of Souls. It had taken him a week to unravel the wards guarding
the area enough to slip through them without alerting anyone, and that had
been with access to the mambo’s mind. But now he was faced with a veritable
maze of magical plants and animals, ready to mangle and tear any unwary
intruder to shreds. And the wary intruder, noting the absence of
Anti-Apparition Jinxes, might be tempted to use that apparent weakness to
evade those defences, only to trigger a reactive ward, which would cover the
area with those jinxes and alert the houngans. Very clever, but not clever
enough.
their Library of Souls. It had taken him a week to unravel the wards guarding
the area enough to slip through them without alerting anyone, and that had
been with access to the mambo’s mind. But now he was faced with a veritable
maze of magical plants and animals, ready to mangle and tear any unwary
intruder to shreds. And the wary intruder, noting the absence of
Anti-Apparition Jinxes, might be tempted to use that apparent weakness to
evade those defences, only to trigger a reactive ward, which would cover the
area with those jinxes and alert the houngans. Very clever, but not clever
enough.
The wind spells ready to force down anyone on a broom — or carpet; Jamaica
hadn’t banned them, of course — were a bit better hidden. If he hadn’t assumed
that there would be such defences he wouldn’t have discovered them, and even
now he was not quite certain if they were not simply a decoy set up to hide
the real defences. All he knew for certain was that using his broom would be
suicidal.
hadn’t banned them, of course — were a bit better hidden. If he hadn’t assumed
that there would be such defences he wouldn’t have discovered them, and even
now he was not quite certain if they were not simply a decoy set up to hide
the real defences. All he knew for certain was that using his broom would be
suicidal.
Which left passing through the jungle, and all its guardians, which would
include buried skeletons and Inferi, in addition to plants that would give
Sprout trouble and animals that would make Kettleburn back off. It was a good
thing that Augustus was made of sterner stuff, and smarter than either.
include buried skeletons and Inferi, in addition to plants that would give
Sprout trouble and animals that would make Kettleburn back off. It was a good
thing that Augustus was made of sterner stuff, and smarter than either.
He had a potion to negate his scent, which, in conjunction with a
Disillusionment Charm, would render most animals unable to detect him. But the
plants… they did not use just scent or sight to find their prey, but also
pressure — and of the air, even, not just on themselves. To pass that
gauntlet, he would have to move as if he were but a leaf in the wind — or so
slowly as to not be detected at all.
Disillusionment Charm, would render most animals unable to detect him. But the
plants… they did not use just scent or sight to find their prey, but also
pressure — and of the air, even, not just on themselves. To pass that
gauntlet, he would have to move as if he were but a leaf in the wind — or so
slowly as to not be detected at all.
And to avoid the Inferi and skeletons he knew were lying in wait beneath the
soil, patient and unmoving as only the undead and constructs could be, he
would have to avoid setting foot on the ground at all, and mask his body’s
heat as well.
soil, patient and unmoving as only the undead and constructs could be, he
would have to avoid setting foot on the ground at all, and mask his body’s
heat as well.
But first he would need to plot a path that would avoid most of the plants and
traps — and he would have to infer most of their locations.
traps — and he would have to infer most of their locations.
He snorted. Yes, the houngans knew how to guard their most sacred place.
---
**Near Ulster Spring, Jamaica, April 26th, 1997**
Ron Weasley watched Brown prepare his ritual, his wand in hand, though pointed
at the ground. He didn’t trust the Unspeakable. Not really. Who knew what the
Department of Mysteries’ goals were? Did they want to capture Rookwood, or
silence him forever? Or might they see this as an opportunity to kill Harry,
Hermione and Sirius before they could change Britain further, and blame it on
Britain’s traditional enemies? Not on Ron’s watch.
at the ground. He didn’t trust the Unspeakable. Not really. Who knew what the
Department of Mysteries’ goals were? Did they want to capture Rookwood, or
silence him forever? Or might they see this as an opportunity to kill Harry,
Hermione and Sirius before they could change Britain further, and blame it on
Britain’s traditional enemies? Not on Ron’s watch.
He watched as the man used his wand to form a runic circle on the ground. As
far as Ron could tell — and he had paid a lot of attention — it was identical
to the one Brown had used, unfortunately unsuccessfully, earlier in the
evening near Grange Hill. Brown looked utterly collected, as if he was merely
doing an exercise in Ancient Runes, and not preparing to cast a ritual spell
in the middle of Jamaica, where houngans might stumble upon them at any
moment. Ron wished he had that sort of composure.
far as Ron could tell — and he had paid a lot of attention — it was identical
to the one Brown had used, unfortunately unsuccessfully, earlier in the
evening near Grange Hill. Brown looked utterly collected, as if he was merely
doing an exercise in Ancient Runes, and not preparing to cast a ritual spell
in the middle of Jamaica, where houngans might stumble upon them at any
moment. Ron wished he had that sort of composure.
He wasn’t the only one, he knew — most of the Resistance members guarding the
perimeter were nervous, and Justin had had to remind a few of them to keep
their eyes on the jungle around them, not on the Unspeakable behind them. And
yet, Ron was keeping an eye on the perimeter as well — Moody’s lessons were
hard to forget, and the Resistance members, apart from Hermione, were not
among those Ron would blindly trust to guard his back.
perimeter were nervous, and Justin had had to remind a few of them to keep
their eyes on the jungle around them, not on the Unspeakable behind them. And
yet, Ron was keeping an eye on the perimeter as well — Moody’s lessons were
hard to forget, and the Resistance members, apart from Hermione, were not
among those Ron would blindly trust to guard his back.
Brown finished creating the circle, and stepped into its centre, carefully
avoiding smudging any of the lines. He moved his wand in slow, controlled
motions, the tip trailing motes of light that were steadily growing brighter.
Ron couldn’t quite catch what the Unspeakable was mumbling, but that wasn’t
new either.
avoiding smudging any of the lines. He moved his wand in slow, controlled
motions, the tip trailing motes of light that were steadily growing brighter.
Ron couldn’t quite catch what the Unspeakable was mumbling, but that wasn’t
new either.
Soon the man was surrounded by a thick band of glowing, floating lights as his
wand rose above his head until, with a loud “Vena!”, he stabbed the wand
towards the sky. For a moment, the floating lights glowed even brighter, then
they dimmed, and Brown blinked.
wand rose above his head until, with a loud “Vena!”, he stabbed the wand
towards the sky. For a moment, the floating lights glowed even brighter, then
they dimmed, and Brown blinked.
That hadn’t happened the last time — the lights had winked out. Ron tensed up
as Brown smiled.
as Brown smiled.
“I found him.”
---
A minute later, everyone was on their brooms, following Brown. They were
flying at a decent pace, though with their Firebolts, Ron and Harry could have
made much better time — but Brown was the only one who knew Rookwood’s
location.
flying at a decent pace, though with their Firebolts, Ron and Harry could have
made much better time — but Brown was the only one who knew Rookwood’s
location.
He looked over his shoulder, checking the markers behind him, and the brooms
he could see in the moonlight. Even though they were not disillusioned, they
were surprisingly hard to spot thanks to their dark grey colour. They would be
even harder to detect from below, disappearing against the night sky —
provided anyone in the jungle below could even see the sky from the ground.
he could see in the moonlight. Even though they were not disillusioned, they
were surprisingly hard to spot thanks to their dark grey colour. They would be
even harder to detect from below, disappearing against the night sky —
provided anyone in the jungle below could even see the sky from the ground.
Though that cut both ways, Ron reminded himself — all he could see was the
tops of the trees below him, and the few hills and rocks that broke through
the canopy. No wonder Rookwood was hiding here.
tops of the trees below him, and the few hills and rocks that broke through
the canopy. No wonder Rookwood was hiding here.
Suddenly, in front of him, Brown’s marker started to descend, and Ron followed
the Unspeakable, descending in a shallow arc until they were almost touching
the treetops. Behind him, the Resistance members were spreading out to cover
their flanks — and to make it harder to hit several of them with a single
spell.
the Unspeakable, descending in a shallow arc until they were almost touching
the treetops. Behind him, the Resistance members were spreading out to cover
their flanks — and to make it harder to hit several of them with a single
spell.
Brown’s marker slowed down even more, almost coming to a complete stop, before
disappearing into the treetops. Ron sighed, cast a Shield Charm, and dove into
the canopy himself, his spell forcing the branches away as he broke through to
the ground. He kept an eye out for other markers — if the Unspeakable were
about to betray them, then this would be the perfect opportunity to lure them
into an ambush. Which was why half the force would stay in the air, as a
‘reserve’, and the other half would spread out on the ground.
disappearing into the treetops. Ron sighed, cast a Shield Charm, and dove into
the canopy himself, his spell forcing the branches away as he broke through to
the ground. He kept an eye out for other markers — if the Unspeakable were
about to betray them, then this would be the perfect opportunity to lure them
into an ambush. Which was why half the force would stay in the air, as a
‘reserve’, and the other half would spread out on the ground.
He landed next to Brown’s marker and dismounted, but kept his broom in hand,
just in case. Other markers touched down nearby.
just in case. Other markers touched down nearby.
“As of ten minutes ago, he was straight ahead of us, at a distance of five
hundred yards,” Brown said over the radio.
hundred yards,” Brown said over the radio.
“Straight ahead?” Harry’s voice cut in.
“Ah.” The Unspeakable became visible and pointed. “I could lead you there.”
Hermione shot the proposal down, as she had shot down his earlier offers.
“That’s too dangerous. You’re the only one who can find him, should he manage
to escape. Do the ritual again and inform us if his location has changed.
Remus, Tonks, stay with him.”
“That’s too dangerous. You’re the only one who can find him, should he manage
to escape. Do the ritual again and inform us if his location has changed.
Remus, Tonks, stay with him.”
“Alright.”
“Yes, ma’am.”
Ron thought their acknowledgements came a bit grudgingly — Tonks’s certainly
sounded sarcastic — but then, he knew exactly what the two thought about
guarding Brown instead of doing the fighting. But someone with more experience
with magic than most muggleborns had to keep an eye on Brown.
sounded sarcastic — but then, he knew exactly what the two thought about
guarding Brown instead of doing the fighting. But someone with more experience
with magic than most muggleborns had to keep an eye on Brown.
“Everyone else — advance carefully. Ground force, expect traps and wards!
Flyers — stay behind the ground force.”
Flyers — stay behind the ground force.”
Ron didn’t bother with calling out his acknowledgement. He simply started off
towards Rookwood’s last known location as others, including Hermione, rose
above the canopy again. Harry’s marker followed him as Ron took the lead.
Moving through the jungle was different from moving through the woods in
Britain. The underbrush was denser — though that soon changed — and the hot
and humid air, as well as the softer ground, made it more exhausting. But the
worst thing was the darkness. The moonlight wasn’t bright enough, not here on
the ground, to be able to walk without stumbling over roots and rocks, and the
faint light at the tip of his wand didn’t help that much. But anything
brighter would give them away to their enemy.
towards Rookwood’s last known location as others, including Hermione, rose
above the canopy again. Harry’s marker followed him as Ron took the lead.
Moving through the jungle was different from moving through the woods in
Britain. The underbrush was denser — though that soon changed — and the hot
and humid air, as well as the softer ground, made it more exhausting. But the
worst thing was the darkness. The moonlight wasn’t bright enough, not here on
the ground, to be able to walk without stumbling over roots and rocks, and the
faint light at the tip of his wand didn’t help that much. But anything
brighter would give them away to their enemy.
He thought they were almost in range of their detection spells when he heard
Brown’s voice over the radio: “Rookwood hasn’t moved.”
Brown’s voice over the radio: “Rookwood hasn’t moved.”
“Flyers, fan out and start to encircle him before moving into range,” Hermione
ordered. “Sirius, scout ahead.”
ordered. “Sirius, scout ahead.”
Since Ron and Harry were in the centre of their formation — if you could call
it a formation — they didn’t have to move, though Harry stepped up next to
him. Then a big black dog — Padfoot — moved past them, briefly poking his nose
at the disillusioned Harry before trotting ahead. The animagus wasn’t trailed
by a marker from Ron’s spell, so any spell Rookwood had cast wouldn’t reveal
him either. Or at least not as a wizard. Another marker joined them, and Ron
tensed up. He hated not knowing who was near him — someone needed to create a
better spell to detect humans.
it a formation — they didn’t have to move, though Harry stepped up next to
him. Then a big black dog — Padfoot — moved past them, briefly poking his nose
at the disillusioned Harry before trotting ahead. The animagus wasn’t trailed
by a marker from Ron’s spell, so any spell Rookwood had cast wouldn’t reveal
him either. Or at least not as a wizard. Another marker joined them, and Ron
tensed up. He hated not knowing who was near him — someone needed to create a
better spell to detect humans.
“’Arry? Ron?” He knew that voice.
“Yes,” Harry answered Vivienne.
“Waiting again,” he heard Harry mutter. “So close…”
“Won’t be long,” Ron whispered. He hoped he was correct.
“Anyone have a good…” someone — Ron didn’t recognise their voice — started on
the radio.
the radio.
“Don’t talk unless it’s important!” Hermione’s sharp voice cut the bloke off.
He heard Harry chuckle, and grinned himself.
He heard Harry chuckle, and grinned himself.
A few minutes later, Padfoot returned. Once he reached them, the dog turned
back into Sirius. “If Rookwood’s there, then he is behind strong wards. Very
strong wards, not just Muggle-Repelling ones,” he said into the radio. “About
two hundred yards ahead of us.”
back into Sirius. “If Rookwood’s there, then he is behind strong wards. Very
strong wards, not just Muggle-Repelling ones,” he said into the radio. “About
two hundred yards ahead of us.”
Ron winced. He could think of a few reasons why the Death Eater was protected
by strong wards — and all of them meant that their task had just grown far
more dangerous.
by strong wards — and all of them meant that their task had just grown far
more dangerous.
---
**Dry Harbour Mountains, Jamaica, April 26th, 1997**
Hermione Granger clenched her teeth as she heard Sirius’s report. Very strong
wards? Either the Death Eater had created a fortified hideout, which would
have taken a long time, longer than she thought he would have had, or he had
taken over another houngan’s manor. Or, she added silently, with a sinking
feeling in her stomach, this was the Library of Souls.
wards? Either the Death Eater had created a fortified hideout, which would
have taken a long time, longer than she thought he would have had, or he had
taken over another houngan’s manor. Or, she added silently, with a sinking
feeling in her stomach, this was the Library of Souls.
Astride her broom, she drew a hissing breath. If this was the Library of
Souls, then Rookwood couldn’t be allowed to proceed. What he could do with the
knowledge of the Library, if he managed to breach the Library’s defences… She
shook her head. But to stay and go after Rookwood meant that the houngans
would see their presence as an attack against the Library — or a houngan’s
manor, if her gut feeling was wrong. They would blame all of Rookwood’s
actions on Britain. Could they risk that?
Souls, then Rookwood couldn’t be allowed to proceed. What he could do with the
knowledge of the Library, if he managed to breach the Library’s defences… She
shook her head. But to stay and go after Rookwood meant that the houngans
would see their presence as an attack against the Library — or a houngan’s
manor, if her gut feeling was wrong. They would blame all of Rookwood’s
actions on Britain. Could they risk that?
She scoffed. Even if they left right now, the houngans would blame them for
the intrusion, and they wouldn’t have anything to show for it. They’d be not
just abandoning the mission, but the victims of the Withering Curse as well.
the intrusion, and they wouldn’t have anything to show for it. They’d be not
just abandoning the mission, but the victims of the Withering Curse as well.
She pushed the button of her radio. “Seamus, start preparing a ward breaching
charge. I’ll check the ward’s strength.”
charge. I’ll check the ward’s strength.”
She gripped her broom more tightly and flew ahead, descending as she did so.
After about a hundred yards, she stopped and cast a detection spell. There was
no ward above the jungle’s canopy. She scoffed — she should have expected
that; the houngans would not draw attention to the Library like that. She
noted the four markers beneath her and used her radio again. “Sirius, I’m
descending on your position.”
After about a hundred yards, she stopped and cast a detection spell. There was
no ward above the jungle’s canopy. She scoffed — she should have expected
that; the houngans would not draw attention to the Library like that. She
noted the four markers beneath her and used her radio again. “Sirius, I’m
descending on your position.”
Her Shield Charm fended off foliage and branches as she broke through the
treetops, before she dismounted near Sirius — and Ron, Harry and Vivienne, or
so she assumed. “Show me to the wardline.”
treetops, before she dismounted near Sirius — and Ron, Harry and Vivienne, or
so she assumed. “Show me to the wardline.”
“Follow me!” she heard Harry’s godfather say, then one marker and a weak
Wand-Lighting Charm — she really needed to find a spell that showed your
allies’ names on their marker — started moving towards Rookwood’s last
position.
Wand-Lighting Charm — she really needed to find a spell that showed your
allies’ names on their marker — started moving towards Rookwood’s last
position.
It didn’t take them long to get close enough to the wardline, and one glance
at the wards was enough for her to know that this was no houngan’s manor. Nor
had Rookwood created those wards. “We’re at the Library of Souls,” she
announced on the radio. “Rookwood must have slipped through the outer wards
already.”
at the wards was enough for her to know that this was no houngan’s manor. Nor
had Rookwood created those wards. “We’re at the Library of Souls,” she
announced on the radio. “Rookwood must have slipped through the outer wards
already.”
Curses filled the channel until Harry restored radio discipline while she
analysed the wards’ strength. “Bloody hell,” she muttered under her breath,
prompting a snort from Sirius near her while she calculated the amount of
explosive needed to take these wards down.
analysed the wards’ strength. “Bloody hell,” she muttered under her breath,
prompting a snort from Sirius near her while she calculated the amount of
explosive needed to take these wards down.
Everyone would need to cast a Silencing Charm, just in case.
---
Augustus Rookwood studied the area in front of him again. There had to be a
way to get past that Devil’s Snare without alerting the skeletons buried
underneath the plant — and without catching the attention of the Blood Apes in
the trees nearby. A way that didn’t involve using the path on the ground,
since that one would be trapped as well. Maybe if he skirted the extreme range
of the plant’s tentacles; even if the Blood Apes detected him, they would not
venture too close to the trap…
way to get past that Devil’s Snare without alerting the skeletons buried
underneath the plant — and without catching the attention of the Blood Apes in
the trees nearby. A way that didn’t involve using the path on the ground,
since that one would be trapped as well. Maybe if he skirted the extreme range
of the plant’s tentacles; even if the Blood Apes detected him, they would not
venture too close to the trap…
The earth shook suddenly and he found himself on the ground, thrown down by a
shockwave that left him struggling to breathe. He scrambled on all fours,
whirled around, and saw smoke and fire cover the jungle behind him. Clumps of
earth and rocks and wood started to rain down, bouncing off his Shield Charm.
What the hell had happened?
shockwave that left him struggling to breathe. He scrambled on all fours,
whirled around, and saw smoke and fire cover the jungle behind him. Clumps of
earth and rocks and wood started to rain down, bouncing off his Shield Charm.
What the hell had happened?
He spotted the Blood Apes moving towards the explosion, swinging from branch
to branch — it had been an explosion, he realised, at the wardline! Someone
had just torn down the wards protecting the outer area around the Library of
Souls! No, blown them away! But who would… the mudbloods! The houngans
wouldn’t do this, and no one else would dare to. Even for the mudbloods, this
was madness!
to branch — it had been an explosion, he realised, at the wardline! Someone
had just torn down the wards protecting the outer area around the Library of
Souls! No, blown them away! But who would… the mudbloods! The houngans
wouldn’t do this, and no one else would dare to. Even for the mudbloods, this
was madness!
He clenched his teeth. But why would the mudbloods attack the Library of
Souls? His eyes widened. They were after the same knowledge he sought! But
their bomb would have alerted the houngans. Were they really expecting to
stand against the might of Britain’s ancient enemy while assaulting the
Library’s inner defences?
Souls? His eyes widened. They were after the same knowledge he sought! But
their bomb would have alerted the houngans. Were they really expecting to
stand against the might of Britain’s ancient enemy while assaulting the
Library’s inner defences?
It didn’t matter — he wasn’t prepared to take on the mudbloods. Who would have
expected them to dare invade Jamaica while still reeling from the devastation
of the last war? He had to flee before he got caught between the houngans and
the mudbloods! All his work for nothing! He focused on his hideout, then
realised that he couldn’t apparate. Had someone triggered the reactive ward
already? Because why would the mudbloods block Apparition? The houngans
wouldn’t apparate directly into the area anyway, and such an act would only
hamper their own…
expected them to dare invade Jamaica while still reeling from the devastation
of the last war? He had to flee before he got caught between the houngans and
the mudbloods! All his work for nothing! He focused on his hideout, then
realised that he couldn’t apparate. Had someone triggered the reactive ward
already? Because why would the mudbloods block Apparition? The houngans
wouldn’t apparate directly into the area anyway, and such an act would only
hamper their own…
He gasped. They wanted to prevent others from fleeing! And he was the only one
present! They were here for him! He had to flee! He had to escape! His broom!
No — that would be suicide! No broom, no Apparition, and they would be
encircling the area… he had to evade them on foot. He started to run, away
from the explosion. Away from the traps, too! With the enemy so close, if the
Devil’s Snare caught him he was as good as dead!
present! They were here for him! He had to flee! He had to escape! His broom!
No — that would be suicide! No broom, no Apparition, and they would be
encircling the area… he had to evade them on foot. He started to run, away
from the explosion. Away from the traps, too! With the enemy so close, if the
Devil’s Snare caught him he was as good as dead!
He hadn’t made it further than a few dozen yards when his
Human-presence-revealing spell showed three people moving towards him. He fell
back, hoping they hadn’t spotted him — but they gave chase! No!
Human-presence-revealing spell showed three people moving towards him. He fell
back, hoping they hadn’t spotted him — but they gave chase! No!
He gripped his wand tightly. He could take three mudbloods! He had taken three
houngans, after all, and he was prepared for more!
houngans, after all, and he was prepared for more!
Before he could cast his first curse, though, he found himself reeling again.
And his Disillusionment Charm gone.
And his Disillusionment Charm gone.
Someone had triggered the wind trap.
---
“The wards are down. Ground forces, move in and take out Rookwood! Flyers,
keep an eye out for escape attempts, and reinforcements! Everyone, watch out
for traps!”
keep an eye out for escape attempts, and reinforcements! Everyone, watch out
for traps!”
Ron Weasley heard Hermione’s orders over the radio and started advancing at
once, to and then past the giant crater Seamus’s bomb had left. That crazy
Irishman had gone overboard, he just knew it — even if Hermione hadn’t said
anything. He reached the area where the wardline had been, and held his breath
crossing it, even though Hermione had already confirmed that the wards were
down. Who knew what magic the houngans could do? Dumbledore had been fatally
cursed in Jamaica!
once, to and then past the giant crater Seamus’s bomb had left. That crazy
Irishman had gone overboard, he just knew it — even if Hermione hadn’t said
anything. He reached the area where the wardline had been, and held his breath
crossing it, even though Hermione had already confirmed that the wards were
down. Who knew what magic the houngans could do? Dumbledore had been fatally
cursed in Jamaica!
A month of training against another crazy Irishman made him look up regularly
as he moved on, and, when he saw something move above him, his reflexes took
over. He threw himself to the side at once, just in time to avoid a monster
slamming into the ground where he had been a second ago. A hairy, screeching
monster, larger than himself, with four flailing arms. A Blood Ape, he
remembered from one of Hagrid’s lessons.
as he moved on, and, when he saw something move above him, his reflexes took
over. He threw himself to the side at once, just in time to avoid a monster
slamming into the ground where he had been a second ago. A hairy, screeching
monster, larger than himself, with four flailing arms. A Blood Ape, he
remembered from one of Hagrid’s lessons.
“Blood Apes in the trees!” he yelled into his radio while flicking his wand.
His Bludgeoning Curse hit the monster right as it was getting up, and tossed
it head over heels into a tree trunk behind it, leaving it dazed for a moment.
He was about to finish it off when he caught sight of two more in the branches
above him, and he managed to hit one of them with a Reductor Curse while
rolling to the side. The other, though, smashed into his Shield Charm,
shattering it with its sheer mass, and clipped him in the leg with a swipe of
its claws.
His Bludgeoning Curse hit the monster right as it was getting up, and tossed
it head over heels into a tree trunk behind it, leaving it dazed for a moment.
He was about to finish it off when he caught sight of two more in the branches
above him, and he managed to hit one of them with a Reductor Curse while
rolling to the side. The other, though, smashed into his Shield Charm,
shattering it with its sheer mass, and clipped him in the leg with a swipe of
its claws.
Ron yelled with pain and kicked out with his good leg, catching the creature
in the stomach. It didn’t do anything but give it pause for a moment — but
that was long enough to whip his wand around and drill a hole in the ape’s
head with a Piercing Curse.
in the stomach. It didn’t do anything but give it pause for a moment — but
that was long enough to whip his wand around and drill a hole in the ape’s
head with a Piercing Curse.
He rolled around, grunting when he felt his leg flare up with pain, and
managed to get up on one knee, just as the first monster charged him. A swish
of his wand conjured a stone wall right in the ape’s path, too close for it to
stop in time, and Ron grinned when he heard it smash into the wall. His next
Blasting Curse turned the wall into deadly shrapnel, and he heard the monster
scream again. It wasn’t down, despite bleeding from multiple wounds, but it
was hampered and reeling, and a Cutting Curse beheaded it.
managed to get up on one knee, just as the first monster charged him. A swish
of his wand conjured a stone wall right in the ape’s path, too close for it to
stop in time, and Ron grinned when he heard it smash into the wall. His next
Blasting Curse turned the wall into deadly shrapnel, and he heard the monster
scream again. It wasn’t down, despite bleeding from multiple wounds, but it
was hampered and reeling, and a Cutting Curse beheaded it.
Panting, he ran a hand over his wounded leg, feeling the blood soaking his
trousers. Then he saw his leg — something, someone had ended his
Disillusionment Charm. He dropped despite the pain, and rolled under the next
brush, frantically conjuring more walls to break the line of sight of whoever
had made him visible.
trousers. Then he saw his leg — something, someone had ended his
Disillusionment Charm. He dropped despite the pain, and rolled under the next
brush, frantically conjuring more walls to break the line of sight of whoever
had made him visible.
“There are Anti-Disillusionment spells active! Watch…” he heard Seamus yell
through the radio, before more screams cut the Gryffindor off.
through the radio, before more screams cut the Gryffindor off.
Ron looked up, and saw the treetops above him shake. He blinked, wondering
what was happening, when he saw a broom rider crash through the canopy,
smashing into several branches before hitting the ground.
what was happening, when he saw a broom rider crash through the canopy,
smashing into several branches before hitting the ground.
Ron gasped, ran his wand over his wounded leg and closing the wound, then ran
over to the fallen wizard before a monster could get to him. A glance told him
that Harry was casting at another ape.
over to the fallen wizard before a monster could get to him. A glance told him
that Harry was casting at another ape.
“Everyone, land at once!” he heard Hermione over the radio. “The winds will
make you crash!”
make you crash!”
He reached the flyer, his wand moving, already casting, when he noticed the
sightless eyes staring ahead. The wizard — Sinclair, Sinclair Thompson, he
recognised him — was already dead.
sightless eyes staring ahead. The wizard — Sinclair, Sinclair Thompson, he
recognised him — was already dead.
---
Sirius Black had changed into Padfoot when he passed the crater, trying to
track Rookwood by scent. He hadn’t had any success, though, before apes
started dropping from trees, followed by muggleborn flyers, whereupon he had
other things to occupy his attention. Like staying alive and protecting his
family. But for that, he had to get back to them first — he had taken the
vanguard, to scout ahead, and had left them behind.
track Rookwood by scent. He hadn’t had any success, though, before apes
started dropping from trees, followed by muggleborn flyers, whereupon he had
other things to occupy his attention. Like staying alive and protecting his
family. But for that, he had to get back to them first — he had taken the
vanguard, to scout ahead, and had left them behind.
He killed two of the beasts with Blood-Boiling Curses — they went mad with the
pain, and attacked each other, allowing him to slip past — before he spotted
Vivienne. The Veela had transformed and was grappling with an ape, the two
opponents slashing at each other with claws. He tried to get a clear shot off
with a curse, but by the time he was close enough, her wings had already
battered the ape down, leaving it broken on the ground next to the burning
carcass of its companion.
pain, and attacked each other, allowing him to slip past — before he spotted
Vivienne. The Veela had transformed and was grappling with an ape, the two
opponents slashing at each other with claws. He tried to get a clear shot off
with a curse, but by the time he was close enough, her wings had already
battered the ape down, leaving it broken on the ground next to the burning
carcass of its companion.
He quickly closed her wounds while she thanked him in the screeching voice of
her current form. When he spotted Harry and Ron nearby, mopping up the last of
the apes that hadn’t been driven off he smiled with relief. “Harry!” he
yelled, making his way over to them, past a smouldering tree trunk.
her current form. When he spotted Harry and Ron nearby, mopping up the last of
the apes that hadn’t been driven off he smiled with relief. “Harry!” he
yelled, making his way over to them, past a smouldering tree trunk.
The two boys turned around, separating to catch him in a crossfire before they
recognised him. “Sirius!” Harry exclaimed, meeting his eyes for a moment
before glancing around again. “We need to press on, or Rookwood will escape!”
recognised him. “Sirius!” Harry exclaimed, meeting his eyes for a moment
before glancing around again. “We need to press on, or Rookwood will escape!”
Sirius wanted to tell Harry to hold, and fall back — but they were here for
Rookwood, and he knew Harry wouldn’t listen. Not as long as they could fight.
So he nodded, and turned around. “Follow me!” he yelled, retracing his steps.
Rookwood, and he knew Harry wouldn’t listen. Not as long as they could fight.
So he nodded, and turned around. “Follow me!” he yelled, retracing his steps.
While they moved further ahead, the radio channel’s chatter painted a grim
picture. They had lost, according to his count, which might be off, at least
three of the muggleborns — dead or wounded after being caught on their brooms
by a wind spell or trap. Fortunately, Hermione, who was doing her best to
reorganise the rest, hadn’t been airborne at the time. The witch’s dislike of
flying might have saved her life, Sirius thought with a chuckle. And Bill and
Fleur were fighting a wizard who had to be Rookwood!
picture. They had lost, according to his count, which might be off, at least
three of the muggleborns — dead or wounded after being caught on their brooms
by a wind spell or trap. Fortunately, Hermione, who was doing her best to
reorganise the rest, hadn’t been airborne at the time. The witch’s dislike of
flying might have saved her life, Sirius thought with a chuckle. And Bill and
Fleur were fighting a wizard who had to be Rookwood!
Sirius reached the spot he had been when the trap had been sprung, and looked
around. He didn’t see anyone nearby. A quick transformation revealed that
Padfoot didn’t smell anyone either. He heard someone, though — helped along by
the fact that, as Padfoot, he wasn’t wearing a radio that filled his ears with
screams and orders.
around. He didn’t see anyone nearby. A quick transformation revealed that
Padfoot didn’t smell anyone either. He heard someone, though — helped along by
the fact that, as Padfoot, he wasn’t wearing a radio that filled his ears with
screams and orders.
“Someone’s coming!” he whispered when he had changed back, pointing down the
path.
path.
Harry, Ron and Vivienne immediately moved to hide in the underbrush. If this
was Rookwood, he would be caught in the crossfire before he could react.
was Rookwood, he would be caught in the crossfire before he could react.
It wasn’t Rookwood. It was a muggleborn — Gary something; the man who had
almost fallen to his death when they had arrived on the island. He must have
fallen again, since he was limping and looked rather battered.
almost fallen to his death when they had arrived on the island. He must have
fallen again, since he was limping and looked rather battered.
“Gary!” Sirius heard Harry yell. “Over here!”
The young wizard stopped, looking around, and Sirius saw him smile when he
spotted Harry. “Harry! I’m so…”
spotted Harry. “Harry! I’m so…”
Whatever he had been about to say turned into a scream when a thick arm broke
through the ground from below and grabbed his leg. Before anyone could react,
Gary was pulled to the ground, and his screams cut off when a dozen more arms
grabbed him and literally tore him to pieces.
through the ground from below and grabbed his leg. Before anyone could react,
Gary was pulled to the ground, and his screams cut off when a dozen more arms
grabbed him and literally tore him to pieces.
---
Harry Potter blinked. One moment, Gary was smiling at him, the next, he was
but blood and gore on the ground. Then rage filled him and his wand — the
Elder Wand — rose.
but blood and gore on the ground. Then rage filled him and his wand — the
Elder Wand — rose.
“Inferi in the ground!” Ron yelled, to them and into the radio.
Harry didn’t pay any attention. He already knew that. A Fire Whip shot out of
his wand, the complex spell appearing to be much more effective than he
remembered as it lashing out at the undead creatures digging themselves out of
the ground. Where his spell touched them, they were cut apart and set aflame.
Within seconds, all that was left of the dozen monsters were burning pieces
scattered around. Some of them were still moving, Harry noticed — one lower
body with one leg still attached was even dragging itself over the ground.
his wand, the complex spell appearing to be much more effective than he
remembered as it lashing out at the undead creatures digging themselves out of
the ground. Where his spell touched them, they were cut apart and set aflame.
Within seconds, all that was left of the dozen monsters were burning pieces
scattered around. Some of them were still moving, Harry noticed — one lower
body with one leg still attached was even dragging itself over the ground.
He lashed out with his spell again, torching the twitching remains, when he
saw that the plants near the Inferi’s location were moving as well. No, it was
just one plant — Devil’s Snare! He grinned, flicking his wrist, and sent the
Fire Whip at it.
saw that the plants near the Inferi’s location were moving as well. No, it was
just one plant — Devil’s Snare! He grinned, flicking his wrist, and sent the
Fire Whip at it.
But where the whip touched the tentacles, they didn’t recoil as he had
expected. Instead, they started to grow, wrapping themselves around his spell
— and growing towards him and Ron as well!
expected. Instead, they started to grow, wrapping themselves around his spell
— and growing towards him and Ron as well!
“What is that?” he heard Ron yell. “Fire doesn’t harm it!”
It wasn’t Devil’s Snare, then, Harry thought. But fire wasn’t the only way to
kill — destroy — a plant. He cast a Cutting Curse, bisecting the closest
tentacles. The cut pieces kept wriggling, but… no, they were reconnecting with
the rest of the plant!
kill — destroy — a plant. He cast a Cutting Curse, bisecting the closest
tentacles. The cut pieces kept wriggling, but… no, they were reconnecting with
the rest of the plant!
“Merlin’s balls!” he heard Ron curse. “What does it take to kill this plant?”
“Fall back!” Sirius yelled. “We can bypass the plant!”
“Skeletons!”
Vivienne’s yell made Harry glance over his shoulder. Dozens of skeletons and
Inferi were encircling them from the rear — and even above, in the trees.
Inferi were encircling them from the rear — and even above, in the trees.
“Releasing a special Bludger!” Ron announced, “Watch out for the tentacles!”
He pulled out one of the twins’ enchanted iron balls and tapped it with his
wand, then sent it towards the approaching undead. While Harry cut down more
tentacles, stalling the plant, the Bludger flew into a row of skeletons,
tagging several of them. They started to fall apart at once, both the ones
knocked down as well as the ones seemingly untouched, while the Bludger
continued on, smashing into an Inferi.
He pulled out one of the twins’ enchanted iron balls and tapped it with his
wand, then sent it towards the approaching undead. While Harry cut down more
tentacles, stalling the plant, the Bludger flew into a row of skeletons,
tagging several of them. They started to fall apart at once, both the ones
knocked down as well as the ones seemingly untouched, while the Bludger
continued on, smashing into an Inferi.
Harry turned his attention back to the plant-monster. He briefly felt the urge
to keep cutting it, grinding it to pieces until only dust was left, but
controlled himself. Or the wand. Brute force wasn’t the answer. What would
Dumbledore do?
to keep cutting it, grinding it to pieces until only dust was left, but
controlled himself. Or the wand. Brute force wasn’t the answer. What would
Dumbledore do?
He chuckled, shaking his head when the answer came to him. A swish of his
wrist directed his wand towards the plant, and he started to transfigure the
tentacles into wood. Soon — much sooner than he expected — instead of a
wriggling, growing plant, he was facing a wooden sculpture of a Devil’s Snare.
wrist directed his wand towards the plant, and he started to transfigure the
tentacles into wood. Soon — much sooner than he expected — instead of a
wriggling, growing plant, he was facing a wooden sculpture of a Devil’s Snare.
And this wood burned easily.
“Good work!” Sirius said as Harry turned around to help dispatching the
remaining undead creatures.
remaining undead creatures.
“Let’s get Rookwood now!” he replied.
“Bill! Where are you?” Ron asked over the radio. There was no answer.
Harry glanced at Ron and nodded. They had to hurry.
---
Augustus Rookwood muttered the worst curses he had heard Greyback use under
his breath while he retreated further down the path leading to the Library’s
entrance. He had been prepared for houngans, fanatical enemies rushing in,
trusting their own traps and guards not to hurt them. That was why he had laid
down wards that would confuse the creatures in the area, making them attack
anyone.
his breath while he retreated further down the path leading to the Library’s
entrance. He had been prepared for houngans, fanatical enemies rushing in,
trusting their own traps and guards not to hurt them. That was why he had laid
down wards that would confuse the creatures in the area, making them attack
anyone.
But his enemies were mudbloods; they were expecting guards and traps. They
even had a Veela with them, whose fireballs had come uncomfortably close once
already. But he was far from being helpless!
even had a Veela with them, whose fireballs had come uncomfortably close once
already. But he was far from being helpless!
He ducked behind a massive tree and took a few deep breaths — the running and
the humidity were getting to him, too. When the tree shook slightly under the
impact of a curse, he nodded. They had seen him and now they would be flanking
him. Predictable!
the humidity were getting to him, too. When the tree shook slightly under the
impact of a curse, he nodded. They had seen him and now they would be flanking
him. Predictable!
He flicked his wand, and the ground beneath him rose, forming a pedestal,
quickly carrying him up to the branches five yards above him. A Colour Change
Charm turned his robes brown-green, and he slid around the trunk onto the
branch. There! He saw movement to the side, someone using the underbrush
beneath three smaller trees as cover. Grinning, he flicked his wand, turning
the vines hanging from the branches into tentacles.
quickly carrying him up to the branches five yards above him. A Colour Change
Charm turned his robes brown-green, and he slid around the trunk onto the
branch. There! He saw movement to the side, someone using the underbrush
beneath three smaller trees as cover. Grinning, he flicked his wand, turning
the vines hanging from the branches into tentacles.
He didn’t see the results of his actions, though, as almost immediately his
tree shook under the assault of several fireballs — the Veela must have
spotted his spell. That the creature managed to fly in the area of effect of
the wind trap… he couldn’t dwell on that. He had to escape. The other mudblood
would be flanking him right now.
tree shook under the assault of several fireballs — the Veela must have
spotted his spell. That the creature managed to fly in the area of effect of
the wind trap… he couldn’t dwell on that. He had to escape. The other mudblood
would be flanking him right now.
Clenching his teeth, he dropped to the ground, a Cushioning Charm breaking his
fall enough to avoid further injury. Up ahead beckoned the entrance to the
Library. He wouldn’t be able to enter, but he would be able to use its
concealing enchantments.
fall enough to avoid further injury. Up ahead beckoned the entrance to the
Library. He wouldn’t be able to enter, but he would be able to use its
concealing enchantments.
And there were a few particularly nasty guard beasts in the area as well he
could lure his enemies into — he doubted that they had removed their scent.
could lure his enemies into — he doubted that they had removed their scent.
---
They were close to where Bill and Fleur had been at the start of the battle
when the radio went out. Harry tapped the button, but he heard only static.
Ron blinked, then quickly hurried back a dozen yards, then tapped his radio
again.
when the radio went out. Harry tapped the button, but he heard only static.
Ron blinked, then quickly hurried back a dozen yards, then tapped his radio
again.
“It’s a ward!” he yelled.
That would explain Bill and Fleur’s radio silence, Harry thought as Ron
rejoined them. But where were… An explosion ahead provided the answer. The
four rushed on, though no longer on the path. Not since they almost fell into
a pit of animated bone spikes. If not for the enchanted Bludger that would
have ended badly.
rejoined them. But where were… An explosion ahead provided the answer. The
four rushed on, though no longer on the path. Not since they almost fell into
a pit of animated bone spikes. If not for the enchanted Bludger that would
have ended badly.
Another explosion, followed by screams. Harry pushed himself to run faster,
jumping over a rock in the way, then turned around a giant tree trunk. There!
A flash of black fatigues between two smaller trees! “Hey!” he yelled, closing
with the figure. He had almost reached them when he noticed that they were not
standing there, but hanging from a tree, held up by a vine wrapped around
their throat, their feet dangling a foot above the ground. As he stared, the
figure slowly turned around, and he recognised Anna’s battered, blue face.
jumping over a rock in the way, then turned around a giant tree trunk. There!
A flash of black fatigues between two smaller trees! “Hey!” he yelled, closing
with the figure. He had almost reached them when he noticed that they were not
standing there, but hanging from a tree, held up by a vine wrapped around
their throat, their feet dangling a foot above the ground. As he stared, the
figure slowly turned around, and he recognised Anna’s battered, blue face.
A strangled scream escaped him, passed his clenched teeth, and he set the
entire tree ablaze before shattering it with a Blasting Curse. Another one
dead, and he hadn’t been able to help her. A flick of his wand transfigured
the body, now lying crumpled on the ground, into a small stone figurine, which
he picked up and put in his pocket. At least they wouldn’t leave her behind.
entire tree ablaze before shattering it with a Blasting Curse. Another one
dead, and he hadn’t been able to help her. A flick of his wand transfigured
the body, now lying crumpled on the ground, into a small stone figurine, which
he picked up and put in his pocket. At least they wouldn’t leave her behind.
They went on, destroying the trees in front and to their sides, not caring if
they were vine-covered or not. Harry was responsible for most of the
destruction — his wand made it easy. They found Bill and Fleur, both wounded
and surrounded by what looked like jaguars — if jaguars had matted fur, red
eyes, and green ichor dropping from their mouths. Bill was waving his wand in
complicated patterns, seemingly uncaring of his bleeding legs, while Fleur,
transformed, was throwing fireballs at the monsters, though all she seemed to
accomplish was to keep them dodging instead of charging.
they were vine-covered or not. Harry was responsible for most of the
destruction — his wand made it easy. They found Bill and Fleur, both wounded
and surrounded by what looked like jaguars — if jaguars had matted fur, red
eyes, and green ichor dropping from their mouths. Bill was waving his wand in
complicated patterns, seemingly uncaring of his bleeding legs, while Fleur,
transformed, was throwing fireballs at the monsters, though all she seemed to
accomplish was to keep them dodging instead of charging.
“Bill!”
Ron’s yell was followed by a barrage of curses, and caught between Fleur and
their group, the creatures quickly either died or fled, Harry’s Fire Whip
accounting for three of the kills.
their group, the creatures quickly either died or fled, Harry’s Fire Whip
accounting for three of the kills.
“Bill!”
Ron rushed towards his brother, but Fleur stepped into his way. “Stop! He’s
been cursed! Don’t distract him, or he might die!” the Veela yelled, wings
spread wide.
been cursed! Don’t distract him, or he might die!” the Veela yelled, wings
spread wide.
Harry would have offered his help, but he was no Curse-Breaker. And Bill
didn’t seem to have the time to explain what curse he was fighting — the
wizard was pale and shivering, sweat running down his face. His slowly turning
blue face.
didn’t seem to have the time to explain what curse he was fighting — the
wizard was pale and shivering, sweat running down his face. His slowly turning
blue face.
Harry muttered a curse under his breath. “Where’s Rookwood?”
Fleur pointed to the side, towards a large rock. “Bill said, before he got
cursed, that he had warded the area. Rookwood, that is.”
cursed, that he had warded the area. Rookwood, that is.”
Harry nodded, exchanged a glance with Ron, and then went left as his friend
went right.
went right.
---
Augustus Rookwood was panting and trying not to scream with pain and give away
his position. That could have gone better. He had managed to lure the
remaining two enemies — one must have fallen to his Strangling Trees — into
the pack of Rock Jaguars, but even after he had used the distraction to throw
a vial of Mummy Rot spores into their midst, they had not been overwhelmed.
The damned Veela had gone mad and covered the entire area with fireballs,
forcing him to retreat further down the path, while the wizard had countered
the spores! If he had known that he wasn’t facing a mudblood, but a skilled
Curse-Breaker he wouldn’t have wasted his vial!
his position. That could have gone better. He had managed to lure the
remaining two enemies — one must have fallen to his Strangling Trees — into
the pack of Rock Jaguars, but even after he had used the distraction to throw
a vial of Mummy Rot spores into their midst, they had not been overwhelmed.
The damned Veela had gone mad and covered the entire area with fireballs,
forcing him to retreat further down the path, while the wizard had countered
the spores! If he had known that he wasn’t facing a mudblood, but a skilled
Curse-Breaker he wouldn’t have wasted his vial!
And now he was trapped between the inner defences of the Library, and the
Curse-Breaker and the Veela outside — he could see their markers floating
above the rock. They were waiting there, waiting for him to break cover and
run the gauntlet of fireballs, and whatever curses the wizard had laid down by
now.
Curse-Breaker and the Veela outside — he could see their markers floating
above the rock. They were waiting there, waiting for him to break cover and
run the gauntlet of fireballs, and whatever curses the wizard had laid down by
now.
Augustus looked around. If he had an hour, he could probably slip through the
entrance here. But he didn’t have an hour. The houngans would arrive soon,
even if the mudbloods didn’t charge his position. He had to find a way out! He
was Augustus Rookwood, a genius! He could do this!
entrance here. But he didn’t have an hour. The houngans would arrive soon,
even if the mudbloods didn’t charge his position. He had to find a way out! He
was Augustus Rookwood, a genius! He could do this!
He pulled out his box of vials. He still had some potions left. Nothing major,
but… maybe the Burrower’s Acid would be enough to get through the sealed
entrance? Or…
but… maybe the Burrower’s Acid would be enough to get through the sealed
entrance? Or…
He stopped moving when a black shadow appeared on the path leading towards
him. A Grim! He thought, before correcting himself. There were no Grims. It
was a huge, black dog. And it was trying to find his scent — not knowing that
he had masked it. And he was hidden by the concealing enchantments on the
entrance to the Library.
him. A Grim! He thought, before correcting himself. There were no Grims. It
was a huge, black dog. And it was trying to find his scent — not knowing that
he had masked it. And he was hidden by the concealing enchantments on the
entrance to the Library.
Grinning, he pointed his wand at the beast, but before he could cast the
Killing Curse, the animal jumped back and darted behind the next rock. Had the
beast noticed him? Or something else he had missed? And where was it now?
Killing Curse, the animal jumped back and darted behind the next rock. Had the
beast noticed him? Or something else he had missed? And where was it now?
He stepped out of the entrance, leading with his wand, turning to face the
rock, when the ground beneath his feet exploded and he found himself thrown
into the wall to his left with enough force to shatter his Shield Charm.
rock, when the ground beneath his feet exploded and he found himself thrown
into the wall to his left with enough force to shatter his Shield Charm.
He was recasting it as he dropped to the ground, and scrambled to his feet —
he had to get back into the entrance, to find cover and hide. And find his
enemy. There! A marker floated at the right corner of the rock. He sent a
Killing Curse at it, to make them dodge and seek cover while he rushed to back
to the entrance.
he had to get back into the entrance, to find cover and hide. And find his
enemy. There! A marker floated at the right corner of the rock. He sent a
Killing Curse at it, to make them dodge and seek cover while he rushed to back
to the entrance.
His curse was blocked by a conjured wall, though — and so was his path.
Dropping to the ground and rolling to the side, he dispelled the wall — or
tried to. It didn’t disappear. He gasped. Who could…
Dropping to the ground and rolling to the side, he dispelled the wall — or
tried to. It didn’t disappear. He gasped. Who could…
Before he could finish the thought, his shield shattered again as a volley of
Bludgeoning and Blasting Curses converged on his position. He was thrown
around like a rag doll in a storm, smashed against the stone walls with enough
force to break bones, and dozens of rock shards sliced into his skin.
Bludgeoning and Blasting Curses converged on his position. He was thrown
around like a rag doll in a storm, smashed against the stone walls with enough
force to break bones, and dozens of rock shards sliced into his skin.
But, bleeding and broken, he had managed land inside the Library’s entrance.
Chuckling at his luck, he moved his wand to seal his wounds and heal his
broken bones… his wand! Where was his wand?
Chuckling at his luck, he moved his wand to seal his wounds and heal his
broken bones… his wand! Where was his wand?
“Accio wand!”
He pushed his hand out, summoning it wandlessly — without success. He quickly
drew another wand he had taken from a dead houngan. He wasn’t helpless. He was
prepared. For anything! He was…
drew another wand he had taken from a dead houngan. He wasn’t helpless. He was
prepared. For anything! He was…
The ground shot up underneath him, throwing him out of the entrance, into the
air, and before he could react, his body was hit with another volley of
Bludgeoning Curses, and this time the pain was great enough that he passed
out.
air, and before he could react, his body was hit with another volley of
Bludgeoning Curses, and this time the pain was great enough that he passed
out.
---
Harry Potter stared at the Death Eater in front of him — he had caught him
with a Levitation Charm in the air after his stone lance had thrown the man
out of his hideout. It was Rookwood. The wizard was alive, though the broken
bones protruding from his bleeding skin showed that he was seriously hurt.
Harry didn’t care. The man was a mass murderer, and deserved death once they
were back in Britain.
with a Levitation Charm in the air after his stone lance had thrown the man
out of his hideout. It was Rookwood. The wizard was alive, though the broken
bones protruding from his bleeding skin showed that he was seriously hurt.
Harry didn’t care. The man was a mass murderer, and deserved death once they
were back in Britain.
“I’ve got him!” he yelled, before he stunned the man for good measure, then
stripped him naked and wrapped him in magical ropes. He wouldn’t take any
risks there.
stripped him naked and wrapped him in magical ropes. He wouldn’t take any
risks there.
When he found the skull in the man’s enchanted pocket, he smiled widely.
Mission accomplished, he thought — they had all they had come here for.
Mission accomplished, he thought — they had all they had come here for.
His radio crackled to life — someone must have dealt with Rookwood’s ward —
and he heard Hermione’s voice.
and he heard Hermione’s voice.
“The houngans are here, more than a dozen of them. Rally at the crater!”
Chapter 64: Surrounded
======================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 64: Surrounded**
’*When considering the mission that the Order of the Phoenix and the
Muggleborn Resistance undertook to Jamaica in 1997, one cannot help but wonder
why almost the entire leadership of both organisations took part in that
incursion. The risk of leaving the progressive factions decapitated — and that
just weeks after Augustus Malfoy’s plan to murder them had spectacularly
failed — should all of their leaders be among those heading to Jamaica had to
have been apparent even in the mission’s planning stages. So, knowing this,
why did people like Hermione Granger, Sirius Black and Harry Potter all enter
Jamaica as part of the same mission?*
Muggleborn Resistance undertook to Jamaica in 1997, one cannot help but wonder
why almost the entire leadership of both organisations took part in that
incursion. The risk of leaving the progressive factions decapitated — and that
just weeks after Augustus Malfoy’s plan to murder them had spectacularly
failed — should all of their leaders be among those heading to Jamaica had to
have been apparent even in the mission’s planning stages. So, knowing this,
why did people like Hermione Granger, Sirius Black and Harry Potter all enter
Jamaica as part of the same mission?*
*Some historians point out that these individuals were among the most capable
wizards and witches in Britain at the time, and therefore the only ones able
to handle such a mission, and that they had left others behind to follow in
their footsteps, should they not while the skill and experience of the
individuals in question is not in doubt, it would nevertheless be incorrect to
conclude that they were therefore indispensable to a mission of this
natur**e**. Even after two Blood Wars, Britain was not entirely bereft of
capable wizards and witches — certainly not to the extent that both the leader
of the Muggleborn Resistance and the leader of the Order of the Phoenix and
the majority of the Wizengamot needed to personally take to the field.*
wizards and witches in Britain at the time, and therefore the only ones able
to handle such a mission, and that they had left others behind to follow in
their footsteps, should they not while the skill and experience of the
individuals in question is not in doubt, it would nevertheless be incorrect to
conclude that they were therefore indispensable to a mission of this
natur**e**. Even after two Blood Wars, Britain was not entirely bereft of
capable wizards and witches — certainly not to the extent that both the leader
of the Muggleborn Resistance and the leader of the Order of the Phoenix and
the majority of the Wizengamot needed to personally take to the field.*
*Others claim that, just as Gellert Grindelwald was defeated in a duel with
Albus Dumbledore and Voldemort was killed by Harry Potter in personal combat,
these extraordinary individuals were needed for a similar feat — or at least
were not able to exclude such a possibility, and therefore had to go on the
mission. But since there is no known prophecy linked to such an event, and
nothing else supports this notion, it can be safely discarded.*
Albus Dumbledore and Voldemort was killed by Harry Potter in personal combat,
these extraordinary individuals were needed for a similar feat — or at least
were not able to exclude such a possibility, and therefore had to go on the
mission. But since there is no known prophecy linked to such an event, and
nothing else supports this notion, it can be safely discarded.*
*No, in my opinion, the people mentioned went on the mission because, their
portrayal in various media notwithstanding, they were not coldly calculating
strategists and politicians, but people — teenagers and an older wizard deeply
traumatised by the events that concluded the First Blood War and his
subsequent time in Azkaban — who would not let their loved ones face mortal
danger without them, and whom no one else could tell otherwise.’*
portrayal in various media notwithstanding, they were not coldly calculating
strategists and politicians, but people — teenagers and an older wizard deeply
traumatised by the events that concluded the First Blood War and his
subsequent time in Azkaban — who would not let their loved ones face mortal
danger without them, and whom no one else could tell otherwise.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**Dry Harbour Mountains, Jamaica, April 26th, 1997**
Hermione Granger heard the wind before she heard the alarmed screams from the
flyers above her. Suddenly, there was a roaring storm above the jungle — and
it was blowing straight down, shaking the treetops above her, tearing leaves
and small animals off the branches and slamming them into the ground. Then she
saw a broom rider crash through the foliage, hit a thick branch with a
sickening crack she heard even over the roaring storm, and spiral down until
he crashed on to the soil.
flyers above her. Suddenly, there was a roaring storm above the jungle — and
it was blowing straight down, shaking the treetops above her, tearing leaves
and small animals off the branches and slamming them into the ground. Then she
saw a broom rider crash through the foliage, hit a thick branch with a
sickening crack she heard even over the roaring storm, and spiral down until
he crashed on to the soil.
When he started screaming, she recognised him — Timothy Meyers. He was still
alive, though badly hurt. Broken bones for certain, she thought, as she saw
Sally-Anne race towards the wounded wizard.
alive, though badly hurt. Broken bones for certain, she thought, as she saw
Sally-Anne race towards the wounded wizard.
“Everyone, land at once!” she yelled into the radio, overriding the screams
from others. “The winds will make you crash!”
from others. “The winds will make you crash!”
Her order was too late though — she heard more screams over the radio. Eric
and Celia. They had crashed as well, but she didn’t know where. And Seamus and
Tania were in trouble, too.
and Celia. They had crashed as well, but she didn’t know where. And Seamus and
Tania were in trouble, too.
This was all her fault. If she hadn’t been so rash… but there was no other
choice. They couldn’t let Rookwood enter the Library of Souls. But she should
have increased the Resistance’s training. Made them prepare for traps and
creatures, not just houngans. Though they there hadn’t been enough time for
that — no one became a Curse-Breaker in a week or two.
choice. They couldn’t let Rookwood enter the Library of Souls. But she should
have increased the Resistance’s training. Made them prepare for traps and
creatures, not just houngans. Though they there hadn’t been enough time for
that — no one became a Curse-Breaker in a week or two.
Hermione shook her head, telling herself not to berate herself for past
mistakes any more. She had to focus on avoiding further mistakes. Trying to
sound as cool and collected as possible, she keyed her radio again, overriding
the cacophony of screaming and yelling. “Sally-Anne, set up a first aid
station at the crater. Justin, Mary-Jane and Emily, cover her. Seamus, Tania —
look for Eric and Celia. Everyone else, converge on Bill and Fleur’s position,
east side. Do not go through the centre.”
mistakes any more. She had to focus on avoiding further mistakes. Trying to
sound as cool and collected as possible, she keyed her radio again, overriding
the cacophony of screaming and yelling. “Sally-Anne, set up a first aid
station at the crater. Justin, Mary-Jane and Emily, cover her. Seamus, Tania —
look for Eric and Celia. Everyone else, converge on Bill and Fleur’s position,
east side. Do not go through the centre.”
She glanced to her side, where Aberforth was standing, looking unruffled.
“We’re securing the crater area for the wounded,” she said.
“We’re securing the crater area for the wounded,” she said.
The old wizard simply nodded and started towards the jungle bordering the
fresh crater on the northern side, where the Library would lie. He flicked his
wand, and a screaming four-armed ape taller than Goyle fell out of a treetop.
fresh crater on the northern side, where the Library would lie. He flicked his
wand, and a screaming four-armed ape taller than Goyle fell out of a treetop.
“Blood Apes,” he commented.
The ones of which Ron had warned them. Hagrid would probably love them,
Hermione thought, blowing up a treetop with a Blasting Curse and killing
another at the same time. She heard gunfire — assault rifles, and a light
machine gun. Tania and Seamus must have found one of their missing members,
then. The fire went on for far longer than she had expected, though, until
suddenly, a small cluster of trees to the west erupted in fire.
Hermione thought, blowing up a treetop with a Blasting Curse and killing
another at the same time. She heard gunfire — assault rifles, and a light
machine gun. Tania and Seamus must have found one of their missing members,
then. The fire went on for far longer than she had expected, though, until
suddenly, a small cluster of trees to the west erupted in fire.
“Bloody plant monsters, soaked up bullets without trouble!” she heard Seamus
complain over the radio. “Need to burn them!” Then she saw him and Tania break
through the underbrush, with a floating Celia between them, running straight
towards the shelter Sally-Anne had created in the crater.
complain over the radio. “Need to burn them!” Then she saw him and Tania break
through the underbrush, with a floating Celia between them, running straight
towards the shelter Sally-Anne had created in the crater.
“Undead! Zombies! My leg’s broken, I can’t move!” Eric’s voice sounded on over
the radio. “Oh, god! I can’t move! Bullets don’t hurt them! Help! Help me!
Please!”
the radio. “Oh, god! I can’t move! Bullets don’t hurt them! Help! Help me!
Please!”
“Burn them!” Seamus yelled into the radio. “Use grenades!”
“Use the Bludgers!” Tania added in a yell.
“They’re too close. Too cloARGH!”
Hermione clenched her teeth. Another one dead, she thought, and it was her
fault. Out loud, she said: “We need to deal with those undead.” She turned to
Aberforth. “Handle the northern side, and focus on plants and creatures.”
fault. Out loud, she said: “We need to deal with those undead.” She turned to
Aberforth. “Handle the northern side, and focus on plants and creatures.”
Then she headed west. “Seamus, Tania — on me!” The two fell in, forming an
inverted V-formation with her at the head.
inverted V-formation with her at the head.
They saw the zombies — Inferi, she recognised them right away — before they
reached the edge of the crater. Dozens of them, with more behind. She pulled
out one of the enchanted Bludgers the twins had created, and threw it towards
the advancing ranks of undead. “Frag grenades!”
reached the edge of the crater. Dozens of them, with more behind. She pulled
out one of the enchanted Bludgers the twins had created, and threw it towards
the advancing ranks of undead. “Frag grenades!”
Seamus and Tania were happy to comply, and two grenades, followed by another
two, arced towards the undead, although coming up a bit short due to the wind
from above. They still peppered the undead with metal splinters — some
bouncing off Hermione’s Shield Charm too — and bowled the closest ones over.
And — which had been the point of the attack — exposed the bones inside the
Inferi to the aerosolised potion the Bludger was spreading. Soon the majority
of the undead were looking far more like puddles of flesh than humanoid
figures. The skeletons behind them were faring even worse, crumbling to dust
in seconds.
two, arced towards the undead, although coming up a bit short due to the wind
from above. They still peppered the undead with metal splinters — some
bouncing off Hermione’s Shield Charm too — and bowled the closest ones over.
And — which had been the point of the attack — exposed the bones inside the
Inferi to the aerosolised potion the Bludger was spreading. Soon the majority
of the undead were looking far more like puddles of flesh than humanoid
figures. The skeletons behind them were faring even worse, crumbling to dust
in seconds.
“Burn them!” she ordered, turning back to check on Aberforth.
On the way, she received word of Gary and Sinclair’s deaths. Two more, she
told herself. But Harry, Ron and Sirius, as well as Vivienne, were moving to
flank Rookwood and support Bill and Fleur. Or avenge them — they hadn’t heard
anything from them, nor from Anna, over the radio for some time. She couldn’t
dwell on that though — she needed to keep their force together and ensure the
wounded were taken care of.
told herself. But Harry, Ron and Sirius, as well as Vivienne, were moving to
flank Rookwood and support Bill and Fleur. Or avenge them — they hadn’t heard
anything from them, nor from Anna, over the radio for some time. She couldn’t
dwell on that though — she needed to keep their force together and ensure the
wounded were taken care of.
The northern side — or front — was a wasteland. Aberforth had either burned or
vanished the trees near the crater, and was in the process of eradicating a
Devil’s Snare when she reached him.
vanished the trees near the crater, and was in the process of eradicating a
Devil’s Snare when she reached him.
“Fire-resistant variant,” he grunted, “needs to be transfigured to be
destroyed.”
destroyed.”
She nodded, watching their surroundings, and pushed the button of her radio
again. “Don’t try to burn any Devil’s Snare you may spot, it’s resistant to
fire. Transfigure it into wood before burning it!” The curse she heard in
response sounded like it had come from Seamus, but Tania didn’t comment, so
they were probably not fighting one.
again. “Don’t try to burn any Devil’s Snare you may spot, it’s resistant to
fire. Transfigure it into wood before burning it!” The curse she heard in
response sounded like it had come from Seamus, but Tania didn’t comment, so
they were probably not fighting one.
“Nasty traps here,” Aberforth said. “I had to deal with buried animated bone
spikes, all the undead you could think of, and the nastiest plants I’ve seen
in a while.”
spikes, all the undead you could think of, and the nastiest plants I’ve seen
in a while.”
He didn’t sound as if he was criticising her, but she felt the sting anyway.
She should have prepared better for such dangers and enemies, not focused on
battling houngans and their minions. But she wouldn’t have been able to
prepare for either enemy if she hadn’t focused on one.
She should have prepared better for such dangers and enemies, not focused on
battling houngans and their minions. But she wouldn’t have been able to
prepare for either enemy if she hadn’t focused on one.
“What about the eastern side?”
She shook her head. “Mary-Jane and Emily are covering that flank. But Harry
and Ron went there first, so it should be safe.”
and Ron went there first, so it should be safe.”
“For the moment,” he grunted.
“For the moment,” she agreed. Something caught her attention at the southern
edge, and she raised her Omnioculars to her face. A flick of her thumb focused
them and started zooming in.
edge, and she raised her Omnioculars to her face. A flick of her thumb focused
them and started zooming in.
She felt her stomach drop for a moment, then used her radio.
“The houngans are here, more than a dozen of them. Rally at the crater!”
---
She rushed forward to the shelter in the crater. Or, bunker now — the conjured
steel walls had been reinforced with earthworks. She spotted Celia and Timothy
right outside, rifles at the ready — Sally-Anne must have mended their broken
bones and closed their wounds already. Mary-Jane and Emily had taken up a
position to the east.
steel walls had been reinforced with earthworks. She spotted Celia and Timothy
right outside, rifles at the ready — Sally-Anne must have mended their broken
bones and closed their wounds already. Mary-Jane and Emily had taken up a
position to the east.
“Transfigure some of the earth below into steel!” she ordered over the radio.
“In case they have undead burrowing through the soil.” There had been too many
buried skeletons and Inferi in that jungle not to consider that possibility.
“In case they have undead burrowing through the soil.” There had been too many
buried skeletons and Inferi in that jungle not to consider that possibility.
“We’ve captured Rookwood and secured the skull. We’re all safe, but Bill’s
wounded.”
wounded.”
Harry’s announcement over the radio made her smile with relief. They had done
what they had come for. It had cost them too much, but they had done it. Remus
reported that his group had managed to avoid the houngans by apparating to a
rally spot before the Anti-Apparition Jinxes covered them. So at least she
wouldn’t have to worry about them.
what they had come for. It had cost them too much, but they had done it. Remus
reported that his group had managed to avoid the houngans by apparating to a
rally spot before the Anti-Apparition Jinxes covered them. So at least she
wouldn’t have to worry about them.
Now they just had to survive the houngans. They couldn’t fly away, and they
couldn’t apparate. That left marching. As the Sergeant used to say — no matter
where, soldiers had to walk. She stuck her head inside the shelter. “We’re
pulling out, to the east!”
couldn’t apparate. That left marching. As the Sergeant used to say — no matter
where, soldiers had to walk. She stuck her head inside the shelter. “We’re
pulling out, to the east!”
Stepping back, she waved her wand and started to turn the southern edge of the
crater into a ditch with a wall behind it while Justin and Sally-Anne,
followed by Celia and Timothy, started to move east — and north. She pushed
the button of her radio. “Sirius, we’re pulling out of the crater, towards the
east, meeting up with you on the way.” They had to get out of range of the
Anti-Apparition wards.
crater into a ditch with a wall behind it while Justin and Sally-Anne,
followed by Celia and Timothy, started to move east — and north. She pushed
the button of her radio. “Sirius, we’re pulling out of the crater, towards the
east, meeting up with you on the way.” They had to get out of range of the
Anti-Apparition wards.
“Alright,” she heard Sirius answer.
Movement to her right drew her attention, and she turned around, wand rising,
until she recognised Tania and Seamus, heading towards her from the west.
“Move on and set up a pillbox at the northeastern corner!” Hermione ordered.
They could cover their retreat if necessary.
until she recognised Tania and Seamus, heading towards her from the west.
“Move on and set up a pillbox at the northeastern corner!” Hermione ordered.
They could cover their retreat if necessary.
As they passed her, following the others to the edge of the crater, Hermione
pushed a lock of hair out of her face — the winds above were still pressing
down, making moving just that little bit more exhausting — and studied the
approaching lines. No sign of the houngans, yet. But that didn’t mean much.
pushed a lock of hair out of her face — the winds above were still pressing
down, making moving just that little bit more exhausting — and studied the
approaching lines. No sign of the houngans, yet. But that didn’t mean much.
“Are we going to fight them?”
Aberforth had caught up. She turned her head to look at him. “We don’t need
to. We came here for Rookwood, and we have him.”
to. We came here for Rookwood, and we have him.”
“Well, lass, might not be up to you to decide that.” He chuckled, though
without any humour.
without any humour.
“Indeed.” She shook her head as she watched the first row of the undead
tumbling down into the ditch. “I still have to try, though.”
tumbling down into the ditch. “I still have to try, though.”
“Not from so close, though.”
“No, I think not.” She tried to sound cool, unconcerned even. Like some of the
officers in those old movies.
officers in those old movies.
The two of them fell back, creating a few more ditches and walls, before they
reached the edge of the crater under the guns of Tania and Seamus. Aberforth
transfigured the earth into stairs and, a few seconds later, both of them
stood at the edge of the crater. A swish of his wand removed the stairs.
reached the edge of the crater under the guns of Tania and Seamus. Aberforth
transfigured the earth into stairs and, a few seconds later, both of them
stood at the edge of the crater. A swish of his wand removed the stairs.
The undead had overcome the first obstacle, and some had entered the first aid
post while the rest surged onward. Hermione studied the edge of the crater,
though — were those wizards there? They were alive, at least. She hoped they
were houngans, and not zombies, as she pointed her wand at her throat and cast
an Amplifying Charm.
post while the rest surged onward. Hermione studied the edge of the crater,
though — were those wizards there? They were alive, at least. She hoped they
were houngans, and not zombies, as she pointed her wand at her throat and cast
an Amplifying Charm.
“Houngans! We are not here for the Library! We are not here to fight you. We
are here to catch the Death Eater who has been killing your people. We have
caught him before he could enter the Library, and now we will leave.” Her
voice rang out over the crater.
are here to catch the Death Eater who has been killing your people. We have
caught him before he could enter the Library, and now we will leave.” Her
voice rang out over the crater.
The undead didn’t stop, climbing over themselves to reach the top of the
second wall, but the figures at the edge of the forest halted in their
advance. For a moment, Hermione felt hope that they could avoid further
fighting.
second wall, but the figures at the edge of the forest halted in their
advance. For a moment, Hermione felt hope that they could avoid further
fighting.
Then spells flew from those people towards her position, impacting on the
crater’s slope, and blowing up chunks of earth — and globs of acid. She almost
ducked behind the walls Tania and Seamus had erected, but kept standing. At
that range, they couldn’t really hit her with a spell.
crater’s slope, and blowing up chunks of earth — and globs of acid. She almost
ducked behind the walls Tania and Seamus had erected, but kept standing. At
that range, they couldn’t really hit her with a spell.
Hermione tried again. “We are not here to fight you. We are withdrawing. You
can check the Library — it’s untouched. We only came here to catch a fugitive
criminal. A Death Eater.”
can check the Library — it’s untouched. We only came here to catch a fugitive
criminal. A Death Eater.”
“They’re coming through the jungle, trying to flank and cut us off!” Tania
informed her.
informed her.
She didn’t curse out loud, not with her Amplifying Charm still active. “If you
keep attacking us we will be forced to defend ourselves! Stop attacking! Call
back your zombies!” More spells flew at her position, some getting close.
keep attacking us we will be forced to defend ourselves! Stop attacking! Call
back your zombies!” More spells flew at her position, some getting close.
“Bastards must be thinking we’re weak!” she heard Seamus mutter nearby. The
undead in the crater were at the third ditch and wall.
undead in the crater were at the third ditch and wall.
She canceled her charm and pushed the button of her radio. “They’re not
listening to us. Seamus, place a few bombs at our position here! Tania,
suppress the houngans at the forest’s edge!” Tania didn’t bother with
acknowledging her order; she simply started firing. Hermione saw the tracers
from the light machine gun hit the houngans facing her, and a number of them
collapsed. She expected them to retreat at once, but they stood their ground
until a few more were hit enough for their shields to shatter, before
retreating back into the jungle.
listening to us. Seamus, place a few bombs at our position here! Tania,
suppress the houngans at the forest’s edge!” Tania didn’t bother with
acknowledging her order; she simply started firing. Hermione saw the tracers
from the light machine gun hit the houngans facing her, and a number of them
collapsed. She expected them to retreat at once, but they stood their ground
until a few more were hit enough for their shields to shatter, before
retreating back into the jungle.
Turning to Aberforth, she pulled out another enchanted Bludger. “That’ll
occupy the ones advancing in the jungle.” She hoped Justin was watching their
flanks as well — if they were to be cut off…
occupy the ones advancing in the jungle.” She hoped Justin was watching their
flanks as well — if they were to be cut off…
The old wizard grinned, then waved his wand and a dozen wolves rose from the
torn up soil of the crater. “These will help.”
torn up soil of the crater. “These will help.”
As the transfigured animals sped into the jungle, towards the zombie line
there, the undead in the crater broke through the final obstacle, and advanced
on the slope.
there, the undead in the crater broke through the final obstacle, and advanced
on the slope.
“Fall back!” Hermione ordered, flicking her wand to turn the slope into mud,
making the Inferi slip and fall, slowing them to a — sometimes literal —
crawl.
making the Inferi slip and fall, slowing them to a — sometimes literal —
crawl.
Tania fired another burst, then picked her machine gun up and kicked Seamus,
who was moving wired packs of Semtex around with his wand. “Get moving!”
who was moving wired packs of Semtex around with his wand. “Get moving!”
He cursed, but didn’t otherwise argue, moving past Hermione with Tania on his
heels. “Move until you catch up with Justin’s group!” she yelled, “I’ll tell
you when to detonate the bombs!”
heels. “Move until you catch up with Justin’s group!” she yelled, “I’ll tell
you when to detonate the bombs!”
“Should be the last to leave, lass,” Aberforth commented.
She refrained from answering that she wasn’t; he was. He was right, after all.
So she turned around and ran into the jungle, keeping an eye on her right
side. Howls from the wolves told her that they had met the undead.
So she turned around and ran into the jungle, keeping an eye on her right
side. Howls from the wolves told her that they had met the undead.
After a few dozen yards, she turned around. No movement at the crater’s edge
yet. Another dozen yards later, she saw the first undead climbing over the
abandoned firing position. She pushed the button of her radio. “Seamus, blow
it now!”
yet. Another dozen yards later, she saw the first undead climbing over the
abandoned firing position. She pushed the button of her radio. “Seamus, blow
it now!”
A second later, the pillbox and the edge of the crater vanished in a fireball.
---
“We’ve captured Rookwood and secured the skull. We’re all safe, but Bill’s
wounded.”
wounded.”
Harry Potter released the button on his radio and turned to the rest of his
group. Ron had Rookwood’s broken, stunned and bound form floating behind them,
and Fleur was propping up Bill while Sirius and Vivienne were keeping an eye
out for more animals. Both Veela had transformed, their inhuman heads moving
like raptors’.
group. Ron had Rookwood’s broken, stunned and bound form floating behind them,
and Fleur was propping up Bill while Sirius and Vivienne were keeping an eye
out for more animals. Both Veela had transformed, their inhuman heads moving
like raptors’.
Hermione’s voice rang out over the radio. “Sirius, we’re pulling out of the
crater, towards the east, meeting up with you on the way.”
crater, towards the east, meeting up with you on the way.”
Harry’s godfather acknowledged the message, then turned to the group. “We need
to move.”
to move.”
“Just give me a minute and I’ll be able to walk,” said Bill, before anyone
could ask.
could ask.
“You’ve beaten the curse?” Ron asked, his strained voice betraying his
concern.
concern.
“Wasn’t a curse. It was Mummy Rot spores, and a few caught me before I could
vanish the cloud. I didn’t have a counter-agent on me, so I had to deal with
them with my wand.” Bill was still breathing heavily, his face covered with
sweat. He didn’t look like he was fully cured, but he might just be exhausted,
Harry thought. Either way, he’d slow them down, unless they levitated him as
well. Which meant another wand would be occupied while they moved.
vanish the cloud. I didn’t have a counter-agent on me, so I had to deal with
them with my wand.” Bill was still breathing heavily, his face covered with
sweat. He didn’t look like he was fully cured, but he might just be exhausted,
Harry thought. Either way, he’d slow them down, unless they levitated him as
well. Which meant another wand would be occupied while they moved.
Bill groaned, closed his eyes, and took a few more deep breaths before shaking
his head. “Alright, I can walk.”
his head. “Alright, I can walk.”
“Can you run?” Sirius asked.
Bill grimaced, then pulled a vial out of his pocket and downed it. He
shuddered for a few seconds, then sighed. “Yes.”
shuddered for a few seconds, then sighed. “Yes.”
Harry glanced at Ron. His friend was frowning, but didn’t comment.
“Let’s go!” Sirius pointed towards the path they had come through. “I’ll
follow the path we took here, so we won’t walk into another trap.” Without
another word, the wizard changed into his animagus form and the large black
dog trotted off, with Vivienne close behind.
follow the path we took here, so we won’t walk into another trap.” Without
another word, the wizard changed into his animagus form and the large black
dog trotted off, with Vivienne close behind.
Harry looked at Ron. “I’ll bring up the rear.”
His friend nodded at him, then started after Sirius, followed by Bill, who was
still a bit shaky on his feet, and Fleur, who was levitating Rookwood.
still a bit shaky on his feet, and Fleur, who was levitating Rookwood.
“They’re not listening to us. Seamus, place a few bombs at our position here!
Tania, suppress the houngans at the forest’s edge!” Harry heard Hermione over
the radio. So, they would have to fight the houngans. He had expected that.
Tania, suppress the houngans at the forest’s edge!” Harry heard Hermione over
the radio. So, they would have to fight the houngans. He had expected that.
Harry was actually glad that Bill was not that quick on his feet, even with
the potion he had taken — it made it easier for him to keep an eye on their
flanks and rear while moving. They might be able to avoid traps thanks to
Padfoot’s nose, but animals could move. And so could houngans and their
zombies.
the potion he had taken — it made it easier for him to keep an eye on their
flanks and rear while moving. They might be able to avoid traps thanks to
Padfoot’s nose, but animals could move. And so could houngans and their
zombies.
He was tempted to leave a few traps of his own — pit traps, mainly — but if
Hermione wanted to move the entire group back this way then that would be a
bad idea. Even if it would be very easy to create such traps with his wand.
Hermione wanted to move the entire group back this way then that would be a
bad idea. Even if it would be very easy to create such traps with his wand.
Movement to his left, up in the trees, made him whip his wand up — more of
those animals? Blood Apes? Something was moving there, hidden by the foliage,
but he couldn’t tell what. No houngans though — his spell would have noticed
them. He flicked his wand, a Cutting Curse slicing through the nearest tree at
an angle. The entire treetop fell down, and he could see several human-sized
figures smashing into the ground. Almost out of reflex, he cast a Fire Whip,
then flicked his wand, the magical flames lashing out at the figures, cutting
them apart and setting them ablaze.
those animals? Blood Apes? Something was moving there, hidden by the foliage,
but he couldn’t tell what. No houngans though — his spell would have noticed
them. He flicked his wand, a Cutting Curse slicing through the nearest tree at
an angle. The entire treetop fell down, and he could see several human-sized
figures smashing into the ground. Almost out of reflex, he cast a Fire Whip,
then flicked his wand, the magical flames lashing out at the figures, cutting
them apart and setting them ablaze.
They didn’t scream, but one of them kept moving. Undead, then.
“Inferi to the southeast of our position,” he announced over the radio.
“How many?” Hermione asked.
“Can’t tell,” Harry answered. “They’re in the trees.”
He caught up to the rest of the group, who were now glancing to their left.
Fleur, still transformed, tried to take to the air, but as soon as she rose
higher than a yard or two, the wind pressed her down again — with enough force
to send her sprawling. The Veela screeched with anger and frustration, before
getting up and peppering the treetops to the southeast with fireballs. Harry
couldn’t tell if she hit anything, but at least it would hinder the enemy
some. Vivienne followed her example.
Fleur, still transformed, tried to take to the air, but as soon as she rose
higher than a yard or two, the wind pressed her down again — with enough force
to send her sprawling. The Veela screeched with anger and frustration, before
getting up and peppering the treetops to the southeast with fireballs. Harry
couldn’t tell if she hit anything, but at least it would hinder the enemy
some. Vivienne followed her example.
They crossed the path leading to the library several times as Sirius led them
through the jungle, until they heard gunfire in front of them.
through the jungle, until they heard gunfire in front of them.
“We can hear your shots,” Sirius announced on the radio, “we’re close — watch
your fire.”
your fire.”
A minute later, the first markers were showing up — and Harry tensed up. He
was reasonably certain that those were the rest of their group, but… if
houngans had managed to get between them…
was reasonably certain that those were the rest of their group, but… if
houngans had managed to get between them…
But he had to cover the rear. He hadn’t spotted any undead or animals near
them for several minutes, but that could change at any moment.
them for several minutes, but that could change at any moment.
“If that’s you in the trees,” he heard Sirius say over the radio, “then
conjure a flock of birds!”
conjure a flock of birds!”
Harry didn’t see any birds, but apparently there were some since Sirius led
the group further ahead, and soon he saw Justin, Sally-Anne and most of the
new recruits — Timothy, Celia, Mary-Jane and Emily. They were looking a bit
‘wild-eyed’ — this was their first real battle. And they had already taken
casualties as well.
the group further ahead, and soon he saw Justin, Sally-Anne and most of the
new recruits — Timothy, Celia, Mary-Jane and Emily. They were looking a bit
‘wild-eyed’ — this was their first real battle. And they had already taken
casualties as well.
“Hermione’s bringing up the rear,” Justin said, erecting a few walls with his
wand. “She tried to talk to the houngans.”
wand. “She tried to talk to the houngans.”
“Merlin’s balls! Zombies to the east!” Ron yelled.
Harry whirled around, and his eyes widened. There was a line of zombies moving
through the jungle, straight towards them. Dozens, no, hundreds of them. And
they were more of them coming from behind them — they had caught up to their
group.
through the jungle, straight towards them. Dozens, no, hundreds of them. And
they were more of them coming from behind them — they had caught up to their
group.
---
Ron Weasley wanted to push on, towards the southwest. Towards Hermione. The
jungle was crawling with zombies, and if she was cut off and surrounded… but
she’d call for help in that case, and she was with Aberforth. He clenched his
teeth and sent a tree toppling with a volley of Cutting Curses, blocking the
approach of another group of Inferi. “Vivienne! They’re bunching up behind the
tree trunk there!”
jungle was crawling with zombies, and if she was cut off and surrounded… but
she’d call for help in that case, and she was with Aberforth. He clenched his
teeth and sent a tree toppling with a volley of Cutting Curses, blocking the
approach of another group of Inferi. “Vivienne! They’re bunching up behind the
tree trunk there!”
The Veela didn’t hesitate, sending a dozen fireballs into the undead, setting
them afire and adding to the smoke covering the battlefield. If not for his
Bubble-Head Charm, Ron would be retching from the stench of burning flesh.
them afire and adding to the smoke covering the battlefield. If not for his
Bubble-Head Charm, Ron would be retching from the stench of burning flesh.
He glanced around, but couldn’t spot any new enemies right then. The foliage
above them had been ripped apart by spells and the wind spells were making
flight impossible, so there wouldn’t be any enemies taking to the treetops…
unless someone disillusioned them.
above them had been ripped apart by spells and the wind spells were making
flight impossible, so there wouldn’t be any enemies taking to the treetops…
unless someone disillusioned them.
Frowning, he cast a few more Blasting Curses at the canopy. Better safe than
sorry. Not that he could tell if, among the branches and tree fragments
falling down, there were enemies caught by his attack anyway. Vivienne left to
rejoin Sirius, a bit further to the south.
sorry. Not that he could tell if, among the branches and tree fragments
falling down, there were enemies caught by his attack anyway. Vivienne left to
rejoin Sirius, a bit further to the south.
Was that movement to the east? More Inferi? How many had the houngans created?
Had they raised all the dead of the island? Markers appeared floating above
the figures. No zombies, then. Not the Inferi variant, at least. “Houngans to
the east!” he yelled into his radio while he crouched behind a tree stump.
Had they raised all the dead of the island? Markers appeared floating above
the figures. No zombies, then. Not the Inferi variant, at least. “Houngans to
the east!” he yelled into his radio while he crouched behind a tree stump.
A flick of his wand transfigured the wood into steel. Another raised the earth
nearby, forming a low wall. Two Resistance members — Timothy and Celia —
sprinted towards him, rifles in hand, and took cover to his left.
nearby, forming a low wall. Two Resistance members — Timothy and Celia —
sprinted towards him, rifles in hand, and took cover to his left.
“Suppress them!” Ron yelled.
The two hesitated a moment, then rose with their rifles and started to fire
short bursts at the houngans, who had advanced in the meantime. He saw one of
the enemies fall before thick black smoke hid all of them.
short bursts at the houngans, who had advanced in the meantime. He saw one of
the enemies fall before thick black smoke hid all of them.
Ron scoffed, and blew the smoke away with a gust of wind, exposing two
houngans crouching near the fallen. Timothy and Celia quickly shot the two,
their Shield Charms not standing up to the rifle fire. He blinked — that was
too easy. Those were too weak…
houngans crouching near the fallen. Timothy and Celia quickly shot the two,
their Shield Charms not standing up to the rifle fire. He blinked — that was
too easy. Those were too weak…
He glanced up, already rolling to the side, but no enemy was pouncing at him
from above. So, not a distraction, then. Or not for that. “Change position!”
he yelled, standing up to send a few curses at the enemy — more to make them
dodge and keep their heads down than with any hope of hitting one of them —
while Timothy and Celia sprinted towards a tree a little way behind him.
from above. So, not a distraction, then. Or not for that. “Change position!”
he yelled, standing up to send a few curses at the enemy — more to make them
dodge and keep their heads down than with any hope of hitting one of them —
while Timothy and Celia sprinted towards a tree a little way behind him.
They set up a firing position there, and it was Ron’s turn to sprint back.
Just as he was starting to run, the earth beneath him exploded, and he was
thrown forward, and into a fallen log, hard enough for his Shield Charm to
shatter. He felt something in his shoulder break, and pain laced his entire
left side as he rolled over the rocky ground.
Just as he was starting to run, the earth beneath him exploded, and he was
thrown forward, and into a fallen log, hard enough for his Shield Charm to
shatter. He felt something in his shoulder break, and pain laced his entire
left side as he rolled over the rocky ground.
Gritting his teeth, he raised an earthen wall to grant him cover, then dragged
himself further back, towards the others, trying to ignore the pain. “I’m
hurt!” he yelled, clumsily pushing the button of his radio with his right hand
while holding his wand. “We need reinforcements here!” Timothy and Celia
couldn’t hold off the houngans. Not by themselves.
himself further back, towards the others, trying to ignore the pain. “I’m
hurt!” he yelled, clumsily pushing the button of his radio with his right hand
while holding his wand. “We need reinforcements here!” Timothy and Celia
couldn’t hold off the houngans. Not by themselves.
“On the way!” he heard Justin yell, and a few seconds later, he saw the former
Hufflepuff appear to his right, followed by Sally-Anne and Mary-Jane.
Sally-Anne waved her wand, and Ron felt himself pulled towards her while the
other two passed him. He grunted through clenched teeth at the pain it caused
as he was pulled through the underbrush, before being deposited at the first
aid station they had prepared earlier.
Hufflepuff appear to his right, followed by Sally-Anne and Mary-Jane.
Sally-Anne waved her wand, and Ron felt himself pulled towards her while the
other two passed him. He grunted through clenched teeth at the pain it caused
as he was pulled through the underbrush, before being deposited at the first
aid station they had prepared earlier.
“Sorry,” Sally-Anne mumbled, without sounding as if she was, as she waved her
wand over him. “Broken shoulder… Hold still.”
wand over him. “Broken shoulder… Hold still.”
He refrained from snapping at her — it wasn’t as if he wanted to move,
considering how painful that was. Then his shoulder felt as if it was on fire,
and he yelled with pain.
considering how painful that was. Then his shoulder felt as if it was on fire,
and he yelled with pain.
“Hold still!” Sally-Anne jabbed her wand at his shoulder once again, and the
pain started to subside. “There! Almost as good as new!”
pain started to subside. “There! Almost as good as new!”
He panted while he clutched his shoulder, squeezing it while the pain slowly
faded. “Thanks.”
faded. “Thanks.”
She nodded at him, then stood up. “Now where did your stupid brother go?”
She sounded remarkably like Pomfrey, Ron noted. Probably something about
healing people. “I don’t know,” he answered. “Probably with Harry at the
rear.” Which would soon turn into the front.
healing people. “I don’t know,” he answered. “Probably with Harry at the
rear.” Which would soon turn into the front.
“Ron!”
He knew that voice! Hermione! He whirled around, heedless of the pain that
caused to his freshly mended shoulder bones, and saw her standing at the
entrance, staring at him.
caused to his freshly mended shoulder bones, and saw her standing at the
entrance, staring at him.
“I’m alright!” he said, looking her over. Her fatigues were covered with mud,
but she didn’t look hurt. She was fine. Safe. Here. He took a step towards
her, opening his arms.
but she didn’t look hurt. She was fine. Safe. Here. He took a step towards
her, opening his arms.
But before he could embrace her, screams filled the radio channel.
---
Hermione Granger jerked when she heard the screaming. That was… Timothy? She
wasn’t certain. But someone, probably Celia, was trying to talk over the radio
as well. Throat microphones were needed, she thought. That would solve this
problem.
wasn’t certain. But someone, probably Celia, was trying to talk over the radio
as well. Throat microphones were needed, she thought. That would solve this
problem.
She keyed her own radio and was about to tell them to use a Silencing Charm
when the screaming suddenly cut off, and she heard Justin’s clipped voice: “A
dozen houngans are advancing on our position. Timothy got cursed, bad. We’re
falling back. Need reinforcements.”
when the screaming suddenly cut off, and she heard Justin’s clipped voice: “A
dozen houngans are advancing on our position. Timothy got cursed, bad. We’re
falling back. Need reinforcements.”
Sally-Anne gasped, already moving.
Ron passed her as well. “Follow me!”
For a moment, she wanted to tell him off — he had just been healed, after all.
But she didn’t, and followed them instead. The others needed them.
But she didn’t, and followed them instead. The others needed them.
“Start falling back towards the northeast!” she ordered over the radio while
ducking around a broken tree trunk. They couldn’t stay and let the houngans
encircle them — they had to punch through the lines and move out of range of
the Anti-Apparition Jinxes. As fast as possible. Aberforth, Tania and Seamus
would have to serve as rearguard.
ducking around a broken tree trunk. They couldn’t stay and let the houngans
encircle them — they had to punch through the lines and move out of range of
the Anti-Apparition Jinxes. As fast as possible. Aberforth, Tania and Seamus
would have to serve as rearguard.
She followed Sally-Anne through some underbrush, and had to dive to the ground
at once — they had almost stumbled into the enemy lines. A flick of her wand
raised earth walls as cover while she glanced around. Where were the others?
at once — they had almost stumbled into the enemy lines. A flick of her wand
raised earth walls as cover while she glanced around. Where were the others?
Then she spotted them and wished she hadn’t. Timothy — she thought it was him
— was writhing on the ground, about twenty yards away from her. His limbs had
rotted off, and he was waving his stumps around, screaming without making any
sound. Someone, probably Justin, had cast a Silencing Charm on him.
— was writhing on the ground, about twenty yards away from her. His limbs had
rotted off, and he was waving his stumps around, screaming without making any
sound. Someone, probably Justin, had cast a Silencing Charm on him.
Sally-Anne screamed as well, and started to crawl towards him. Hermione saw a
yellow spell pass over her friend’s head, and another spell turned a bush
behind her to stone. She thought about pulling out her rifle, but… she needed
her wand more in such close quarters. And Celia was already firing her own
rifle, up ahead, while Ron was busy dealing with an attempt to flank them from
the south. They needed to get moving before they lost contact with the rest
and ended up cut off.
yellow spell pass over her friend’s head, and another spell turned a bush
behind her to stone. She thought about pulling out her rifle, but… she needed
her wand more in such close quarters. And Celia was already firing her own
rifle, up ahead, while Ron was busy dealing with an attempt to flank them from
the south. They needed to get moving before they lost contact with the rest
and ended up cut off.
Hermione sent a volley of Blasting Curses at the closest houngans — thirty
yards, she estimated. The explosions sent them sprawling, one of them not
getting up while the other two hastily retreated behind two thick trees which
had fallen, one ending up over the other, forming a barrier on the ground. She
had to change position herself to avoid the curses raining down on her from a
houngan who had managed to climb a tree to the northeast, and after a
particular close near-miss, she had to recast her Shield Charm behind a
hastily conjured stone wall. She crawled through a bush while the wall was
slowly eaten by acid spells.
yards, she estimated. The explosions sent them sprawling, one of them not
getting up while the other two hastily retreated behind two thick trees which
had fallen, one ending up over the other, forming a barrier on the ground. She
had to change position herself to avoid the curses raining down on her from a
houngan who had managed to climb a tree to the northeast, and after a
particular close near-miss, she had to recast her Shield Charm behind a
hastily conjured stone wall. She crawled through a bush while the wall was
slowly eaten by acid spells.
Ron was falling back towards her, taking out the houngan in the tree with a
Reductor Curse that blew up the branch the other wizards was crouching on,
filling him with splinters and sending him tumbling down ten yards. He didn’t
get up afterwards.
Reductor Curse that blew up the branch the other wizards was crouching on,
filling him with splinters and sending him tumbling down ten yards. He didn’t
get up afterwards.
The two who had taken cover behind the logs hadn’t changed position — she
could see their markers floating above them. She was tempted to cast a few
more Blasting Curses, turn the logs into shrapnel… but they’d expect that,
wouldn’t they? Instead, she turned the earth beneath the logs into water,
turning the entire area into an impromptu pool which rapidly became a mudhole.
Then she pulled out a Molotov cocktail and banished it over the now floating
logs after which she turned the water into petrol.
could see their markers floating above them. She was tempted to cast a few
more Blasting Curses, turn the logs into shrapnel… but they’d expect that,
wouldn’t they? Instead, she turned the earth beneath the logs into water,
turning the entire area into an impromptu pool which rapidly became a mudhole.
Then she pulled out a Molotov cocktail and banished it over the now floating
logs after which she turned the water into petrol.
The screams of the two houngans caught in the mud didn’t last long, the
floating markers above them quickly winking out. She clenched her teeth,
turned a bush into a spreading cloud of thick smoke, and made her way towards
where Sally-Anne was treating Timothy.
floating markers above them quickly winking out. She clenched her teeth,
turned a bush into a spreading cloud of thick smoke, and made her way towards
where Sally-Anne was treating Timothy.
Or trying to, she corrected herself when she reached them — Timothy had been
reduced to a head set on a rotting mound of flesh and bones and shriveling
skin. To Hermione’s horror, he was still alive, still screaming soundlessly,
blood pouring out of his mouth. Sally-Anne was crying while she tried to stop
the curse, casting spell after spell.
reduced to a head set on a rotting mound of flesh and bones and shriveling
skin. To Hermione’s horror, he was still alive, still screaming soundlessly,
blood pouring out of his mouth. Sally-Anne was crying while she tried to stop
the curse, casting spell after spell.
“Hermione! Nothing is working! I can’t stop the curse!”
And they couldn’t stay here, not with the jungle filling with houngans and
their creatures, and the main force already moving.
their creatures, and the main force already moving.
They couldn’t save Timothy. Hermione knew it. There was only one thing left
that they could do.
that they could do.
“Stupefy!”
The red spell hit his forehead, and she saw the wizard’s eyes close. “Move!”
she yelled at Sally-Anne.
she yelled at Sally-Anne.
“But…”
“Move! We can’t stay. Go to Justin!”
Sally-Anne stood up, tears running down her cheeks, and started running
towards Justin and Celia, who had fallen back further, to the north. The witch
was moving as they had trained to, sprinting from cover to cover, Hermione
noticed.
towards Justin and Celia, who had fallen back further, to the north. The witch
was moving as they had trained to, sprinting from cover to cover, Hermione
noticed.
Where was Ron? There! He had just blown another tree apart, the crashed
treetop blocking the line of sight to the advancing enemy, and was running
towards her. She swished her wand, creating a few pit traps behind Ron.
treetop blocking the line of sight to the advancing enemy, and was running
towards her. She swished her wand, creating a few pit traps behind Ron.
He jumped behind the earth wall she had created, panting. “Are the others
already… Merlin’s balls!” She saw him staring at the remains of Timothy. There
was nothing left but some amorphous mass of rotting flesh and some bone and
skin fragments.
already… Merlin’s balls!” She saw him staring at the remains of Timothy. There
was nothing left but some amorphous mass of rotting flesh and some bone and
skin fragments.
She wanted to hold him, reassure herself that he was unhurt, alive. But there
was no time. “We need to move.” She conjured a few smoke clouds — red and
green ones, to make the houngans think they were poisonous — and nodded
towards the north.
was no time. “We need to move.” She conjured a few smoke clouds — red and
green ones, to make the houngans think they were poisonous — and nodded
towards the north.
He was muttering curses behind her as they rushed through the underbrush,
towards where the others were waiting for them.
towards where the others were waiting for them.
---
Harry Potter flicked his wrist and his Fire Whip Spell cut another Inferius
apart. The burning pieces dropped to the ground, where they’d flop and twitch
around until they turned to ashes — he didn’t watch, but instead focused his
attention on his next target, after a quick glance upwards, to check for
enemies above him.
apart. The burning pieces dropped to the ground, where they’d flop and twitch
around until they turned to ashes — he didn’t watch, but instead focused his
attention on his next target, after a quick glance upwards, to check for
enemies above him.
Near him, Padfoot suddenly changed back into Sirius, waving his wand while
yelling: “Disillusioned Inferi ahead of us!” A cloud of red smoke appeared
between the treetops and the ground, around fifty yards away.
yelling: “Disillusioned Inferi ahead of us!” A cloud of red smoke appeared
between the treetops and the ground, around fifty yards away.
At once, Harry raised the Elder Wand and sent a Blasting Curse at the ground
beneath the cloud. Dust and earth were thrown up, briefly obscuring the area,
and an already damaged tree toppled over. A second later, Sirius dispelled the
Disillusionment Charm, and five dozen zombies appeared — three of them on the
ground, missing limbs.
beneath the cloud. Dust and earth were thrown up, briefly obscuring the area,
and an already damaged tree toppled over. A second later, Sirius dispelled the
Disillusionment Charm, and five dozen zombies appeared — three of them on the
ground, missing limbs.
Vivienne, in her raptor-form, screeching what Harry thought was a French
battlecry, buried all of them in fireballs, leaving the entire area burning.
Harry hissed — they had to move through that area, unless they wanted to brave
more traps to the west, where the Library lay, or face the enemies trying to
close with them from the south. He flicked his wrist and sent streams of water
at the burning area.
battlecry, buried all of them in fireballs, leaving the entire area burning.
Harry hissed — they had to move through that area, unless they wanted to brave
more traps to the west, where the Library lay, or face the enemies trying to
close with them from the south. He flicked his wrist and sent streams of water
at the burning area.
Sirius changed into Padfoot, sprinted ahead, then changed back. “I don’t smell
any other Inferi around,” Harry heard him report over the radio.
any other Inferi around,” Harry heard him report over the radio.
He wondered why the houngans hadn’t disillusioned more of their undead zombies
— they would have been far more effective that way. Maybe most of the Inferi
they were fighting had been stored underground, like the others, and not
brought in by houngans after they had been alerted?
— they would have been far more effective that way. Maybe most of the Inferi
they were fighting had been stored underground, like the others, and not
brought in by houngans after they had been alerted?
He shook his head, moving quickly to catch up with Sirius and Vivienne. This
was no time to dwell on such things. Not when they needed to break through the
enemy line. Behind him, Bill and Fleur were securing their flank — and setting
fire to other parts of the jungle. And Ron, Hermione and the Resistance would
be moving west of them. Except for those who had already been killed.
was no time to dwell on such things. Not when they needed to break through the
enemy line. Behind him, Bill and Fleur were securing their flank — and setting
fire to other parts of the jungle. And Ron, Hermione and the Resistance would
be moving west of them. Except for those who had already been killed.
They passed the area where the remains of the Inferi they had just destroyed
were still smouldering. Harry’s Water-Making Spell had turned part of the
ground into mud, and he had to struggle a little to keep up his pace. The
humid air wasn’t helping either.
were still smouldering. Harry’s Water-Making Spell had turned part of the
ground into mud, and he had to struggle a little to keep up his pace. The
humid air wasn’t helping either.
Movement ahead of them drew his attention and he stepped behind a tree,
pressing himself against the burned bark. Figures moved through the woods. The
markers floating above them confirmed that that they were not Inferi.
“Houngans ahead. Fifty yards!” he informed the others. They were moving
cautiously, from cover to cover, conjuring some where it wasn’t available. If
not for the markers, Harry wouldn’t have seen half of them.
pressing himself against the burned bark. Figures moved through the woods. The
markers floating above them confirmed that that they were not Inferi.
“Houngans ahead. Fifty yards!” he informed the others. They were moving
cautiously, from cover to cover, conjuring some where it wasn’t available. If
not for the markers, Harry wouldn’t have seen half of them.
“Bill, Fleur — move up and flank them from the south!” Sirius ordered. “We’ll
hold them in place. Conjuration and Transfiguration.”
hold them in place. Conjuration and Transfiguration.”
Harry wanted to blast the enemies apart — his wand almost moved by itself —
but if he did that, he would ruin Sirius’s plan. So he conjured a dozen
venomous snakes. He ignored their grumbling about how vile humans tasted and
sent them against the houngans while staying in cover. With a bit of luck,
they wouldn’t be detected in the underbrush before they bit someone. He sent a
few more after them.
but if he did that, he would ruin Sirius’s plan. So he conjured a dozen
venomous snakes. He ignored their grumbling about how vile humans tasted and
sent them against the houngans while staying in cover. With a bit of luck,
they wouldn’t be detected in the underbrush before they bit someone. He sent a
few more after them.
Sirius, of course, choose to conjure something flashier — Harry heard lions
roar, and saw the houngans spread out, spells flying from their wands as they
reacted to the attacking cats. Harry saw a huge thing drop down from the trees
ahead, straight on a houngan. Too big for a Blood Ape, but of similar shape —
and quickly killed, it seemed. More might have been in the trees — but the
houngans set them on fire.
roar, and saw the houngans spread out, spells flying from their wands as they
reacted to the attacking cats. Harry saw a huge thing drop down from the trees
ahead, straight on a houngan. Too big for a Blood Ape, but of similar shape —
and quickly killed, it seemed. More might have been in the trees — but the
houngans set them on fire.
Then Harry’s snakes entered the fray. One of the houngans collapsed, screaming
loudly. The rest started to send curses at the ground. Harry was grateful that
the snakes were too far away for him to understand their pained words as they
were killed.
loudly. The rest started to send curses at the ground. Harry was grateful that
the snakes were too far away for him to understand their pained words as they
were killed.
Nevertheless, they had done their task — Fleur and Bill were in position now.
While the Veela threw half a dozen fireballs at the centre of what was left of
the houngans’ formation, Bill cast curses Harry didn’t recognise.
While the Veela threw half a dozen fireballs at the centre of what was left of
the houngans’ formation, Bill cast curses Harry didn’t recognise.
“Now!” Sirius yelled, standing up behind the rock that served as cover for
him, his wand weaving. Harry slid around the tree trunk, smearing more ash on
his clothes, and unleashed curses of his own at the disarrayed and partially
exposed enemies. One of them decapitated a houngan who was trying to put out
the fire licking at his clothes, another missed his target, but caused the
witch to jump away — straight into a curse of Sirius’s that dropped her to the
ground in a cloud of blood.
him, his wand weaving. Harry slid around the tree trunk, smearing more ash on
his clothes, and unleashed curses of his own at the disarrayed and partially
exposed enemies. One of them decapitated a houngan who was trying to put out
the fire licking at his clothes, another missed his target, but caused the
witch to jump away — straight into a curse of Sirius’s that dropped her to the
ground in a cloud of blood.
Vivienne’s fireballs joined Fleur’s, and the remaining houngans didn’t last
long in the crossfire, their shields shattering under the assault. The last of
them tried to run, but Harry caught him in the back with a Bludgeoning Curse
that broke the man’s spine as it smashed him into a fallen tree trunk.
long in the crossfire, their shields shattering under the assault. The last of
them tried to run, but Harry caught him in the back with a Bludgeoning Curse
that broke the man’s spine as it smashed him into a fallen tree trunk.
Sirius changed to Padfoot and raced ahead, quickly covering the ground between
them and the fallen houngans. Harry was close on his heels and threw himself
into cover as soon as he reached him, almost ending on top of a charred
corpse. He fought not to retch at the sight and rolled over, peering over the
rock that hadn’t saved the dead enemy. The area ahead of them seemed clear,
and through the wrecked foliage, he could see a slope rising a few hundred
yards ahead of them. That should take them out of range of the wind trap so
they could outfly the Anti-Apparition Jinxes, Harry thought.
them and the fallen houngans. Harry was close on his heels and threw himself
into cover as soon as he reached him, almost ending on top of a charred
corpse. He fought not to retch at the sight and rolled over, peering over the
rock that hadn’t saved the dead enemy. The area ahead of them seemed clear,
and through the wrecked foliage, he could see a slope rising a few hundred
yards ahead of them. That should take them out of range of the wind trap so
they could outfly the Anti-Apparition Jinxes, Harry thought.
Bill and Fleur were already moving past him, towards a tall, thick tree
northwest of their position.
northwest of their position.
“I don’t see any enemies,” Harry said, pushing the button of his radio.
“Seems clear here too,” Sirius added.
“Nothing here ei-Fleur!”
Harry whipped his head around. Fleur was on the ground clawing at her throat,
barely protected by a stone wall Bill must have conjured. The Curse-Breaker
was frantically casting at the Veela while the wall shook under the impact of
more curses coming from the trees at the base of the ridge.
barely protected by a stone wall Bill must have conjured. The Curse-Breaker
was frantically casting at the Veela while the wall shook under the impact of
more curses coming from the trees at the base of the ridge.
Harry added a cloud of smoke to obscure them from their enemies’ sight, then
started to dart from cover to cover, sending Blasting Curses at the enemies’
positions.
started to dart from cover to cover, sending Blasting Curses at the enemies’
positions.
“It’s a Strangling Curse! But I can’t dispel it!” Bill yelled over the radio.
“I don’t know why!”
“I don’t know why!”
Harry clenched his teeth, conjured a stone wall between himself and the enemy,
and then rushed over to their position, sliding the last few yards over the
ground.
and then rushed over to their position, sliding the last few yards over the
ground.
“I can’t dispel it!” Bill repeated himself while Fleur looked like she was
trying to tear out her own throat. For a moment, Harry thought about punching
a hole in her chest, into her lung. He had seen that on a TV show, once. No,
he had no idea how to do that without killing her. He pointed his wand at her
instead.
trying to tear out her own throat. For a moment, Harry thought about punching
a hole in her chest, into her lung. He had seen that on a TV show, once. No,
he had no idea how to do that without killing her. He pointed his wand at her
instead.
“Finite! Finite! Finite!”
He was shouting the Incantation. It had worked when Ron had been cursed by
Voldemort. It should work here as well — none of the houngans were a match for
the Dark Lord!
Voldemort. It should work here as well — none of the houngans were a match for
the Dark Lord!
“Finite! Finite! Finite!”
He saw Fleur gasp, taking a deep breath, and smiled with relief.
Then the earth around him erupted, and he found himself flying through the
air, with Bill, Fleur and the remains of the stone wall and several trees —
right into what felt like a hurricane.
air, with Bill, Fleur and the remains of the stone wall and several trees —
right into what felt like a hurricane.
---
For a horrible moment Harry felt as if he were inside a giant blender. The
wind was throwing him around, head over heels, stone and wood fragments were
smashing against his Shield Charm, and he lost all sense of orientation,
barely managing to hold on to his wand before he crashed into the ground. The
impact knocked the breath out of him and shattered his shield. He rolled on
the ground, frantically waving his wand to recast his Shield Charm as larger
rocks and parts of trees hit the ground all around him.
wind was throwing him around, head over heels, stone and wood fragments were
smashing against his Shield Charm, and he lost all sense of orientation,
barely managing to hold on to his wand before he crashed into the ground. The
impact knocked the breath out of him and shattered his shield. He rolled on
the ground, frantically waving his wand to recast his Shield Charm as larger
rocks and parts of trees hit the ground all around him.
One rock hit his shoulder, and the pain wrecked his casting. He grit his teeth
and tried again, finishing the spell despite something hitting his leg. A wave
of his wand conjured a stone shelter, protecting him from the deadly rain, and
he finally could tend to his wounds.
and tried again, finishing the spell despite something hitting his leg. A wave
of his wand conjured a stone shelter, protecting him from the deadly rain, and
he finally could tend to his wounds.
The shoulder was easy — bruised and dislocated. He had had the same wound in
Quidditch training, or with Moody, often enough, and it took no more than two
spells to set and numb it. The splinter piercing his leg was more difficult.
When he summoned the shard, it didn’t slide smoothly back out of his leg but
ripped an even worse wound on its way out. Staunching the bleeding took half a
dozen spells, and he felt so light-headed afterwards, he had to quaff a
Blood-Replenishing Potion.
Quidditch training, or with Moody, often enough, and it took no more than two
spells to set and numb it. The splinter piercing his leg was more difficult.
When he summoned the shard, it didn’t slide smoothly back out of his leg but
ripped an even worse wound on its way out. Staunching the bleeding took half a
dozen spells, and he felt so light-headed afterwards, he had to quaff a
Blood-Replenishing Potion.
But he could walk again and he could cast again. But Sirius, and the others…
He reached for his radio, then noticed that he had lost the headset. He tried
to summon it, but failed — it must have been destroyed. Cursing, he crawled
out of the shelter, wand ready, and gasped at what he saw. The storm above had
abated, but the ground had been torn up by rocks and parts of trees. Where
were his friends? And where were the houngans?
He reached for his radio, then noticed that he had lost the headset. He tried
to summon it, but failed — it must have been destroyed. Cursing, he crawled
out of the shelter, wand ready, and gasped at what he saw. The storm above had
abated, but the ground had been torn up by rocks and parts of trees. Where
were his friends? And where were the houngans?
A volley of curses flying at him answered the latter question. He threw
himself forward, dodging two yellow curses which hit the ground behind him,
into a roll. His Shield Charm flared up as it deflected another curse, and he
jumped behind the remains of a tree, reinforcing it with conjured stone before
he came to a stop.
himself forward, dodging two yellow curses which hit the ground behind him,
into a roll. His Shield Charm flared up as it deflected another curse, and he
jumped behind the remains of a tree, reinforcing it with conjured stone before
he came to a stop.
And just in time — a wave of fire washed over his makeshift cover and, despite
his shield, he felt the heat on his exposed skin. Snarling, he sprinted back
the way he had come, sending two Blasting Curses at the closest enemy’s
position before diving behind his shelter. More curses pelted the stone walls,
and he ducked low, then rose and lashed out with a Fire Whip Spell that cut
down the last tree that had survived the enemy’s onslaught — and caught a
houngan out in the open. The wizard’s shield failed to protect him and he fell
down. Harry saw the marker floating above the man disappear before he ducked
behind the stone walls again.
his shield, he felt the heat on his exposed skin. Snarling, he sprinted back
the way he had come, sending two Blasting Curses at the closest enemy’s
position before diving behind his shelter. More curses pelted the stone walls,
and he ducked low, then rose and lashed out with a Fire Whip Spell that cut
down the last tree that had survived the enemy’s onslaught — and caught a
houngan out in the open. The wizard’s shield failed to protect him and he fell
down. Harry saw the marker floating above the man disappear before he ducked
behind the stone walls again.
More curses flew over his head. Too high to hit him — by design. Another curse
hit the ground behind him, turning it into a fizzling, smoking puddle. He
vanished the entire area, then pressed himself against the wall when spears
and arrows rained down on his position, two splintering against his shield.
Someone was trying Banishing Charms, but couldn’t aim well enough. But if they
used them on bottles of poison or acid…
hit the ground behind him, turning it into a fizzling, smoking puddle. He
vanished the entire area, then pressed himself against the wall when spears
and arrows rained down on his position, two splintering against his shield.
Someone was trying Banishing Charms, but couldn’t aim well enough. But if they
used them on bottles of poison or acid…
He couldn’t stay here — the houngans could fix him in place, and reduce his
cover or flank him. Or both. They probably were trying to do so already,
outside his view. But where were Sirius and the others? He saw two markers to
the west, above the remains of a group of trees. By his estimate, they were
outside the range of the enemies’ Human-presence-revealing Spells. But if he
ran towards them, he’d give away their position.
cover or flank him. Or both. They probably were trying to do so already,
outside his view. But where were Sirius and the others? He saw two markers to
the west, above the remains of a group of trees. By his estimate, they were
outside the range of the enemies’ Human-presence-revealing Spells. But if he
ran towards them, he’d give away their position.
He couldn’t stay, he couldn’t go west, there were more enemies to the east…
Harry snorted. They wouldn’t expect him to charge straight at them, and if he
covered the ground between his position and theirs in smoke… He just had to be
quick enough, and lucky enough, to get within their ranks…
Harry snorted. They wouldn’t expect him to charge straight at them, and if he
covered the ground between his position and theirs in smoke… He just had to be
quick enough, and lucky enough, to get within their ranks…
Shots fired nearby interrupted his plans. Shots fired at the houngans.
---
Ron Weasley rushed forward while Tania laid down covering fire with her light
machine gun, supported by Celia and Emily with their rifles. Harry was lying
behind the crumbling remains of a stone shelter, and by the looks of the
devastation around him, the houngans had bombarded his position with dozens of
Blasting Curses — the ground looked like it had been ploughed up by giants.
machine gun, supported by Celia and Emily with their rifles. Harry was lying
behind the crumbling remains of a stone shelter, and by the looks of the
devastation around him, the houngans had bombarded his position with dozens of
Blasting Curses — the ground looked like it had been ploughed up by giants.
He was casting a few spells himself as he navigated the treacherous ground,
toppling a tree with a Reductor Curse, then slid into cover next to Harry.
“Mate! Are you hurt?” His trousers were covered with blood and mud.
toppling a tree with a Reductor Curse, then slid into cover next to Harry.
“Mate! Are you hurt?” His trousers were covered with blood and mud.
“Not any more,” his friend answered, shaking his head. “Those are experienced
houngans, not curse fodder. Bill and Fleur were in the middle of this, when it
blew up…”
houngans, not curse fodder. Bill and Fleur were in the middle of this, when it
blew up…”
Ron hissed. His brother had been… He looked around. There were two markers
floating above some downed trees, and other markers closing in on them, from
his own group. But Harry had been with Bill, Fleur, Sirius and Vivienne…
“Let’s fall back, before we get hit here!”
floating above some downed trees, and other markers closing in on them, from
his own group. But Harry had been with Bill, Fleur, Sirius and Vivienne…
“Let’s fall back, before we get hit here!”
“We can’t stay here,” Harry continued. “But with the others rolling up their
eastern flank, we can hit them from the west.”
eastern flank, we can hit them from the west.”
They conjured smoke clouds, raised a few walls to provide hard cover, then
sprinted back towards the treeline. Not towards the markers there — they
wouldn’t lead the enemies to them. The shelter blew up behind them and Ron
changed direction, heading more eastwards, then turning south again. Something
started to break through the soil in front of them, something made up of
bones. Ron hit it with a Reductor Curse and sped up some more.
sprinted back towards the treeline. Not towards the markers there — they
wouldn’t lead the enemies to them. The shelter blew up behind them and Ron
changed direction, heading more eastwards, then turning south again. Something
started to break through the soil in front of them, something made up of
bones. Ron hit it with a Reductor Curse and sped up some more.
He reached the treeline before Harry — who wasn’t quite as unhurt as he had
claimed, as Ron should have known — and slid behind a rock there, pulling out
his rifle to cover Harry. His friend broke through the underbrush, then veered
west. Ron followed him at once, slinging the rifle on his back and covering
their right with his wand. It wasn’t far.
claimed, as Ron should have known — and slid behind a rock there, pulling out
his rifle to cover Harry. His friend broke through the underbrush, then veered
west. Ron followed him at once, slinging the rifle on his back and covering
their right with his wand. It wasn’t far.
“Sirius!”
“Harry! Stop! He’s wounded!”
That was Hermione! Ron slid around the fallen tree Harry had jumped over, and
saw that the witch was standing between Harry and Sirius — and Vivienne. They
were lying on the ground, not moving, and Sally-Anne was waving her wand over
them. Justin was there as well — apparently, he was the one now levitating
Rookwood’s bound form.
saw that the witch was standing between Harry and Sirius — and Vivienne. They
were lying on the ground, not moving, and Sally-Anne was waving her wand over
them. Justin was there as well — apparently, he was the one now levitating
Rookwood’s bound form.
“How…” Harry didn’t finish his question.
“They’re alive, but badly hurt. No curses, but… broken bones, bleeding…”
Sally-Anne looked briefly at Hermione before returning her attention to the
two on the ground. “I’ll need more time to fix them here.”
Sally-Anne looked briefly at Hermione before returning her attention to the
two on the ground. “I’ll need more time to fix them here.”
Ron saw Hermione bite her lower lip. “Can you transport them?”
Sally-Anne drew a hissing breath. “Not right now.” She kept casting, and her
expression didn’t change.
expression didn’t change.
“Alright.” Hermione spat out orders over the radio. “We need to hold here
until we can move the wounded. We’re facing experienced houngans — probably
their leaders — in the northeast. Seamus, Tania, Emily, Mary-Jane — fall back
and secure our rear! Justin, Celia — cover Sally-Anne and the wounded! Keep an
eye on the west as well. Everyone else — we need to find Fleur and Bill and
push the houngans back!”
until we can move the wounded. We’re facing experienced houngans — probably
their leaders — in the northeast. Seamus, Tania, Emily, Mary-Jane — fall back
and secure our rear! Justin, Celia — cover Sally-Anne and the wounded! Keep an
eye on the west as well. Everyone else — we need to find Fleur and Bill and
push the houngans back!”
Where could his brother be? He wasn’t answering on the radio. Ron followed
Hermione to the edge of the treeline, and looked around. He couldn’t spot any
sign of the missing couple. Maybe… no. He had to keep his hopes up. They would
find them.
Hermione to the edge of the treeline, and looked around. He couldn’t spot any
sign of the missing couple. Maybe… no. He had to keep his hopes up. They would
find them.
Hermione created a trench in front of the treeline, and slid down into it,
pulling out her rifle. Ron joined her, and saw a few curses already flying
towards them, although none came close — they were too far for anyone to
reliably hit them using a wand. A decent range for rifles, though.
pulling out her rifle. Ron joined her, and saw a few curses already flying
towards them, although none came close — they were too far for anyone to
reliably hit them using a wand. A decent range for rifles, though.
“So… fire and move?” he asked, quoting the Major.
“Yes, but we won’t advance,” Hermione answered as Harry joined them. ‘We’ll
fix them and move to the northwest, so we can catch them in the flank should
they cross the open area.’ She nodded towards the south. “They’ll be
distracted.”
fix them and move to the northwest, so we can catch them in the flank should
they cross the open area.’ She nodded towards the south. “They’ll be
distracted.”
Ron turned his head and gasped when he saw the wizard who stepped out from the
treeline. Was that… impossible! No, it was Aberforth — but he had coloured his
beard and robes!
treeline. Was that… impossible! No, it was Aberforth — but he had coloured his
beard and robes!
“Move!” Hermione said, standing up to fire at the houngan positions. Ron and
Harry dashed along the trench, Harry elongating it with his wand as they
advanced. After a dozen yards, Ron stood up and started firing, using short
bursts, as the Sergeant had taught him. He doubted that he hit anyone, though
— not that it was needed; it seemed every houngan was casting at Aberforth.
The old wizard was moving back and forth in front of the treeline, deflecting
curses with conjured obstacles while sending spells of his own back at the
houngans. Ron saw several trees starting to move, their branches growing and
flailing like the Whomping Willow’s. At least one body was hit by them, and
sent flying.
Harry dashed along the trench, Harry elongating it with his wand as they
advanced. After a dozen yards, Ron stood up and started firing, using short
bursts, as the Sergeant had taught him. He doubted that he hit anyone, though
— not that it was needed; it seemed every houngan was casting at Aberforth.
The old wizard was moving back and forth in front of the treeline, deflecting
curses with conjured obstacles while sending spells of his own back at the
houngans. Ron saw several trees starting to move, their branches growing and
flailing like the Whomping Willow’s. At least one body was hit by them, and
sent flying.
Ron’s rifle ran out of ammo and he slid down into the trench to reload.
Hermione had passed him, and was now behind Harry, getting ready to fire
again.
Hermione had passed him, and was now behind Harry, getting ready to fire
again.
He took a deep breath, and was about to dash towards her when a shriek cut
through the noise of the battle, and multiple fireballs exploded ahead of
them. Ron froze for a moment. That had been Fleur, and she had sounded as if
she had just… no!
through the noise of the battle, and multiple fireballs exploded ahead of
them. Ron froze for a moment. That had been Fleur, and she had sounded as if
she had just… no!
He shook his head and started to run.
Chapter 65: Endgame
===================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 65: Endgame**
*It is quite ironic that, upon closer investigation, the battles fought by the
Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn Resistance disproved the very ideals
for which they claimed to be fighting, namely the equality of all witches and
wizards. For the most crucial battles were not decided by the masses that
formed the rank and file of either organisation, but by the actions of
extraordinary individuals. I would even go as far as to postulate that the
vast majority of the forces of any of the factions involved in the Second
Blood War could have been removed without significantly altering the outcome.
Even the Battle of Dry Harbour Mountains does not deviate from this pattern
since it too was decided when the houngan leaders met the leaders of the
British force.’*
Order of the Phoenix and the Muggleborn Resistance disproved the very ideals
for which they claimed to be fighting, namely the equality of all witches and
wizards. For the most crucial battles were not decided by the masses that
formed the rank and file of either organisation, but by the actions of
extraordinary individuals. I would even go as far as to postulate that the
vast majority of the forces of any of the factions involved in the Second
Blood War could have been removed without significantly altering the outcome.
Even the Battle of Dry Harbour Mountains does not deviate from this pattern
since it too was decided when the houngan leaders met the leaders of the
British force.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘Wizarding Britain in the 20th Century’ by Albert Runcorn*
---
**Dry Harbour Mountains, Jamaica, April 26th, 1997**
Ron Weasley spotted two markers floating in the forest before they had cleared
half the distance to the treeline, but he still almost climbed over Harry and
dashed the last twenty yards when his friend wasn’t quite as quick to enlarge
the trench they were moving through. He held back, though — breaking
discipline like that got people killed. Your people.
half the distance to the treeline, but he still almost climbed over Harry and
dashed the last twenty yards when his friend wasn’t quite as quick to enlarge
the trench they were moving through. He held back, though — breaking
discipline like that got people killed. Your people.
Although he had gone through three magazines already, and was banishing
grenades at the enemy lines. Or simply in the enemy’s direction. Ahead of his
group, Fleur hadn’t let up. Half the forest seemed to be on fire, and she was
still screaming, or rather screeching.
grenades at the enemy lines. Or simply in the enemy’s direction. Ahead of his
group, Fleur hadn’t let up. Half the forest seemed to be on fire, and she was
still screaming, or rather screeching.
Ron raised a wall when they were close enough as Hermione transfigured the
rest of the trench into a ramp, and then they were sprinting the last yards
into the forest. A slew of curses reduced the wall to rubble, but they were
already inside the trees by then, and a few conjured rocks added cover to the
concealment the underbrush granted.
rest of the trench into a ramp, and then they were sprinting the last yards
into the forest. A slew of curses reduced the wall to rubble, but they were
already inside the trees by then, and a few conjured rocks added cover to the
concealment the underbrush granted.
He slung his rifle over his shoulder again — a dense forest was a place for
wands, not long guns, and he was far more comfortable with a wand to begin
with — and hurried ahead, towards the closer marker. He stumbled over a root
when he glanced upwards a bit too long, to check for animals or Inferi, but
caught himself and dashed on. Behind him, Harry was moving northwards, to
secure their flank, but Hermione was following him.
wands, not long guns, and he was far more comfortable with a wand to begin
with — and hurried ahead, towards the closer marker. He stumbled over a root
when he glanced upwards a bit too long, to check for animals or Inferi, but
caught himself and dashed on. Behind him, Harry was moving northwards, to
secure their flank, but Hermione was following him.
Ron forced his way through a particularly dense bush that left him with
bleeding scratches on his face and throat and finally reached the first
marker. It was Bill. On the ground, unmoving, and looking like a corpse. If
not for the marker, Ron would have thought him dead. “Merlin’s balls!” He
crouched down, flicking his wand over his brother.
bleeding scratches on his face and throat and finally reached the first
marker. It was Bill. On the ground, unmoving, and looking like a corpse. If
not for the marker, Ron would have thought him dead. “Merlin’s balls!” He
crouched down, flicking his wand over his brother.
He winced when he finished his casting. Bill was in a really bad way. An arm
and a leg smashed — the bones shattered to pieces — three ribs broken, one
lung pierced… and those were just the results given by the few spells he knew.
Bill probably had internal injuries which were even worse. He might be
bleeding inside, even if his open wounds had been closed by Fleur. He
certainly looked pale enough, under the blood and mud.
and a leg smashed — the bones shattered to pieces — three ribs broken, one
lung pierced… and those were just the results given by the few spells he knew.
Bill probably had internal injuries which were even worse. He might be
bleeding inside, even if his open wounds had been closed by Fleur. He
certainly looked pale enough, under the blood and mud.
Ron dug a Blood-Replenishing Potion out of his enchanted pocket, unstoppered
it, and reached out for Bill’s head to pour it down his throat.
it, and reached out for Bill’s head to pour it down his throat.
“Watch out! He could have spinal injuries!” Hermione exclaimed behind him, and
Ron froze for a moment.
Ron froze for a moment.
Then he shook his head. “Those can be healed. I won’t let him bleed to death!
Open your mouth, Bill!” he added, even though his brother couldn’t hear him,
then pulled his mouth open and fed him the potion.
Open your mouth, Bill!” he added, even though his brother couldn’t hear him,
then pulled his mouth open and fed him the potion.
“We need to get him back to Sally-Anne and the others!” Hermione whispered,
crouching down next to him. “We can’t treat him here.”
crouching down next to him. “We can’t treat him here.”
Ron nodded. “I can transport him back, if… No.” He whipped his head around to
look at Hermione. ‘Take him back!’ When she opened her mouth to contradict
him, he shook his head. “Sirius is down. You’re in command. You can’t be on
the front lines.”
look at Hermione. ‘Take him back!’ When she opened her mouth to contradict
him, he shook his head. “Sirius is down. You’re in command. You can’t be on
the front lines.”
He could see her clench her teeth, then nod. “Don’t die!” she whispered.
“I won’t,” he whispered back, before leaning over and kissing her briefly.
Then he was up and running towards Harry and Fleur. And hoping he wasn’t too
late — or a liar.
late — or a liar.
---
Harry Potter ducked when another curse hit the tree stump he was using as
cover and more wooden splinters filled the air behind him — one of them
pinging off his shield. He conjured a smoke cloud on his left side, then, when
half a dozen curses flew into the cloud, he slid to the right of the stump and
rolled over towards a small rock that had been broken off a larger one a
minute ago. He rose high enough to cast over the rock and sent a Blasting
Curse at the canopy above the enemies’ position. Branches and fragments — most
of which he turned into green-coloured water — rained down on the houngans.
cover and more wooden splinters filled the air behind him — one of them
pinging off his shield. He conjured a smoke cloud on his left side, then, when
half a dozen curses flew into the cloud, he slid to the right of the stump and
rolled over towards a small rock that had been broken off a larger one a
minute ago. He rose high enough to cast over the rock and sent a Blasting
Curse at the canopy above the enemies’ position. Branches and fragments — most
of which he turned into green-coloured water — rained down on the houngans.
One houngan in the middle of the affected area jumped up, screaming about
poison, and Harry broke his shield with a Piercing Curse right before Fleur
incinerated the man with two fireballs.
poison, and Harry broke his shield with a Piercing Curse right before Fleur
incinerated the man with two fireballs.
But that had cost both of them time and given away their latest positions.
Harry barely managed to raise a wall in time to absorb another half a dozen
curses before scrambling towards a still-standing tree five yards behind him.
The wall exploded before he reached the tree, and his shield shattered when
two particularly large fragments hit it.
Harry barely managed to raise a wall in time to absorb another half a dozen
curses before scrambling towards a still-standing tree five yards behind him.
The wall exploded before he reached the tree, and his shield shattered when
two particularly large fragments hit it.
Harry dropped to the ground, vanishing the earth underneath him, and fell two
yards, landing on his stomach — but since the curses passing overhead missed
him, he considered himself lucky. A twist of his wand turned the walls of his
hole into stairs, a swish broke the enemy’s line of sight with more walls, and
he scrambled out of the hole before someone filled it with real poison.
yards, landing on his stomach — but since the curses passing overhead missed
him, he considered himself lucky. A twist of his wand turned the walls of his
hole into stairs, a swish broke the enemy’s line of sight with more walls, and
he scrambled out of the hole before someone filled it with real poison.
This time the obstacles lasted until he found better cover, and he was finally
out of range of their Human-presence-revealing Spells — since his own now only
showed Fleur’s marker. Taking a few deep breaths, he numbed his aching side
then moved towards the Veela. They had to fall further back, or they’d be
outflanked!
out of range of their Human-presence-revealing Spells — since his own now only
showed Fleur’s marker. Taking a few deep breaths, he numbed his aching side
then moved towards the Veela. They had to fall further back, or they’d be
outflanked!
The French witch was standing between two tall trees, and launched another
volley of fireballs westwards. Harry hoped the enemies there were Inferi, left
over from the traps guarding the Library, and not houngans. If they had
managed to get around their flank that easily already…
volley of fireballs westwards. Harry hoped the enemies there were Inferi, left
over from the traps guarding the Library, and not houngans. If they had
managed to get around their flank that easily already…
Fleur jumped behind the next tree, closer to Harry. “More enemies west of us!”
she yelled at him. “We can take them!”
she yelled at him. “We can take them!”
“We need to fall back!” he retorted.
She shook her head. “Bill needs more time!”
Bill needed his fiancée, Harry thought. But he understood her feelings. And
help should be arriving soon — Ron and Hermione wouldn’t let them down.
“Alright. But we need to move anyway.”
help should be arriving soon — Ron and Hermione wouldn’t let them down.
“Alright. But we need to move anyway.”
The enemy’s spells had let up for a few minutes now, but that didn’t mean they
were giving up. They were probably circling around them outside the range of
their detection spells.
were giving up. They were probably circling around them outside the range of
their detection spells.
Fleur slid around the tree, a fireball in her hand, but, before she could
launch it, the ground beneath her broke open and a claw reached for her leg.
The Veela jumped back, but the ground she landed on gave way as well, and she
toppled over with a scream.
launch it, the ground beneath her broke open and a claw reached for her leg.
The Veela jumped back, but the ground she landed on gave way as well, and she
toppled over with a scream.
Harry was tempted to let loose his last Bludger, but… the enemy had been
proved to be good at targeting them, and if Fleur was wounded to the bone… he
couldn’t risk it. Instead he waved his wand, and vanished as much of the
ground between himself and Fleur as he could.
proved to be good at targeting them, and if Fleur was wounded to the bone… he
couldn’t risk it. Instead he waved his wand, and vanished as much of the
ground between himself and Fleur as he could.
His spell revealed the fallen Veela — and a dozen monsters which must have
burrowed through the earth to reach them. As his wand rose to help Fleur,
Harry realised the monsters looked like a cross between giant voles and
jaguars.
burrowed through the earth to reach them. As his wand rose to help Fleur,
Harry realised the monsters looked like a cross between giant voles and
jaguars.
The Veela was in dire straits. She had managed to push off the monster she had
landed on, but hadn’t escaped unscathed — the jaguar-sized monster had raked
her back, and Fleur was bleeding heavily as she torched it and its closest
companion.
landed on, but hadn’t escaped unscathed — the jaguar-sized monster had raked
her back, and Fleur was bleeding heavily as she torched it and its closest
companion.
Harry blew up two more with a Blasting Curse, before jumping into the hole his
spell had left. He had to reach Fleur before she was swarmed by the remaining
creatures. One pounced on him, but slid off his recast Shield Charm, and a
Piercing Curse to the chest took it out. Another charged at him, but he
stopped it with a conjured stone wall, which he blew up right afterwards, the
stone shards killing the dazed monster and one more who had come up behind it.
That still left half a dozen, and most of them were attacking Fleur.
spell had left. He had to reach Fleur before she was swarmed by the remaining
creatures. One pounced on him, but slid off his recast Shield Charm, and a
Piercing Curse to the chest took it out. Another charged at him, but he
stopped it with a conjured stone wall, which he blew up right afterwards, the
stone shards killing the dazed monster and one more who had come up behind it.
That still left half a dozen, and most of them were attacking Fleur.
Harry sent one of those flying with a Banishing Charm, but the others were
already too close for him to cast without risking hitting Fleur. He was
dashing forward, to get closer, when three of them pounced on her, bringing
her down. He saw blood fly, before they and Fleur vanished in a fireball.
already too close for him to cast without risking hitting Fleur. He was
dashing forward, to get closer, when three of them pounced on her, bringing
her down. He saw blood fly, before they and Fleur vanished in a fireball.
Harry cut down the other monsters with a Fire Whip without thinking about it
as he raced ahead, then cast Piercing Curses into the smoking carcasses
surrounding Fleur, just in case. He knelt down next to her — she was alive,
but seriously injured. Not as burned as he had expected — though her clothes
had suffered — but the creatures’ claws had gouged deep gashes in her body,
and she was bleeding heavily. Probably bleeding out.
as he raced ahead, then cast Piercing Curses into the smoking carcasses
surrounding Fleur, just in case. He knelt down next to her — she was alive,
but seriously injured. Not as burned as he had expected — though her clothes
had suffered — but the creatures’ claws had gouged deep gashes in her body,
and she was bleeding heavily. Probably bleeding out.
He waved his wand frantically as he dug into his pockets for another
Blood-Replenishing Potion.
Blood-Replenishing Potion.
“Episkey! Episkey! Episkey!”
---
Ron Weasley broke through the underbrush, jumped over a curved root, and
landed in a text-book roll on the ground, coming to a stop behind the broken
remains of a tree. A bit further ahead he spotted two markers — floating above
a hole in the ground. He thumbed his radio. “Fleur? Fleur?”
landed in a text-book roll on the ground, coming to a stop behind the broken
remains of a tree. A bit further ahead he spotted two markers — floating above
a hole in the ground. He thumbed his radio. “Fleur? Fleur?”
No answer. Had she lost her radio, or… There was no time to speculate. He
couldn’t see any other markers around, which meant he was relatively safe from
enemy spells. He took a deep breath, then sprinted forward. The rifle on his
back hit his side as he ran, annoying, if not really painful. A Sticking Charm
would stop that, but would mean he couldn’t draw it in a hurry.
couldn’t see any other markers around, which meant he was relatively safe from
enemy spells. He took a deep breath, then sprinted forward. The rifle on his
back hit his side as he ran, annoying, if not really painful. A Sticking Charm
would stop that, but would mean he couldn’t draw it in a hurry.
A spell grazed his shield and he dropped to the ground, moving some of the
earth beneath him into a small wall — which crumpled at once under another
spell. A curse — it left sizzling remains. One of them landed on his arm, and
started to eat through his sleeve. He banished it with a flick of his wand and
deepened the trench, then covered the area in smoke.
earth beneath him into a small wall — which crumpled at once under another
spell. A curse — it left sizzling remains. One of them landed on his arm, and
started to eat through his sleeve. He banished it with a flick of his wand and
deepened the trench, then covered the area in smoke.
It didn’t last — a strong wind blew it away before Ron could start to run
towards the next cover. In response, he transfigured the earth on the side
nearest the enemies into stone and threw up a few thick walls to break the
line of sight before he started to run. He still couldn’t see their markers,
so they couldn’t detect his position either.
towards the next cover. In response, he transfigured the earth on the side
nearest the enemies into stone and threw up a few thick walls to break the
line of sight before he started to run. He still couldn’t see their markers,
so they couldn’t detect his position either.
Behind him a cloud appeared over the trench, quickly descending, and where it
touched the ground, the remaining grass wilted. Ron hissed — he was certain he
wouldn’t fare much better if that touched him, and he didn’t want to find out
if it could go past a shield.
touched the ground, the remaining grass wilted. Ron hissed — he was certain he
wouldn’t fare much better if that touched him, and he didn’t want to find out
if it could go past a shield.
He disillusioned himself, then conjured a few flocks of birds and sent them
back as a distraction. He didn’t see whether the wind trap or another cloud
got them — he was close to the two markers now and threw himself down into the
large hole ahead of him.
back as a distraction. He didn’t see whether the wind trap or another cloud
got them — he was close to the two markers now and threw himself down into the
large hole ahead of him.
He landed on the bloody carcass of some monster — or part of it — and cursed.
More such creatures were strewn around the hole, some burning, others ripped
apart. But there, under a stone shelter, he could see Harry and Fleur! His
friend was whirling around, wand rising, and Ron froze. “It’s me, Harry! Ron!”
he shouted as loud as he could, and Harry stopped whatever spell he had been
about to cast.
More such creatures were strewn around the hole, some burning, others ripped
apart. But there, under a stone shelter, he could see Harry and Fleur! His
friend was whirling around, wand rising, and Ron froze. “It’s me, Harry! Ron!”
he shouted as loud as he could, and Harry stopped whatever spell he had been
about to cast.
“She’s badly hurt,” he said as Ron closed, “we need to move back — the
houngans here are much more dangerous than the ones we fought before.”
houngans here are much more dangerous than the ones we fought before.”
Harry didn’t look that well either, Ron thought, but he nodded. They had to
fall back before the houngans spotted them, and buried them under their
curses. He raised his own wand. “Levitate her, I’ll cover you.”
fall back before the houngans spotted them, and buried them under their
curses. He raised his own wand. “Levitate her, I’ll cover you.”
Harry opened his mouth, probably to argue, but Ron stepped out from the
shelter and started to transfigure the earth around them into lions, then
disillusioned the pack and sent them against the enemy lines. Keeping an eye
out for more enemies, he used his radio to inform Hermione and the others.
“Harry is taking Fleur back to the first aid station. I’m covering him. The
enemies here are very strong!”
shelter and started to transfigure the earth around them into lions, then
disillusioned the pack and sent them against the enemy lines. Keeping an eye
out for more enemies, he used his radio to inform Hermione and the others.
“Harry is taking Fleur back to the first aid station. I’m covering him. The
enemies here are very strong!”
“Watch out for flanking enemies!” Harry yelled. He had already disillusioned
himself and Fleur, so Ron could only tell where he was by their floating
markers.
himself and Fleur, so Ron could only tell where he was by their floating
markers.
“Alright!” he yelled back and sent a few more invisible lions to the west.
He looked back when he climbed out of the hole — which was the size of a large
crater, now that he considered it — and saw that his lions hadn’t made it
halfway to the enemies’ positions. Nor had their Disillusionment Charms held.
Judging by the number of spells cast, there had to be two dozen enemies there,
entrenched and ready, blocking off the northeastern route.
crater, now that he considered it — and saw that his lions hadn’t made it
halfway to the enemies’ positions. Nor had their Disillusionment Charms held.
Judging by the number of spells cast, there had to be two dozen enemies there,
entrenched and ready, blocking off the northeastern route.
They had to find another way out of this trap. And fast.
---
Back with Sally-Anne and the others, Hermione Granger listened to Ron’s report
on the radio and barely refrained from rushing off to help him and Harry. She
couldn’t break ranks like that, though — she was needed here, in command. Not
that she was doing that well in that function, either. Five dead, four wounded
— and most of it her fault. She should have been prepared for such a trap —
more prepared, at least. And she needed to find a way out of their current
predicament. To the west lay the library, and its defences. Traps and
monsters. They had dealt with a number of each, but there would be more — and
they wouldn’t bother the houngans. So trying to head west would be suicide.
The escape route she had planned to take, to the northeast, was blocked by
powerful enemies, according to Ron’s report over the radio. And the rest of
the houngans were pushing up from the south and east.
on the radio and barely refrained from rushing off to help him and Harry. She
couldn’t break ranks like that, though — she was needed here, in command. Not
that she was doing that well in that function, either. Five dead, four wounded
— and most of it her fault. She should have been prepared for such a trap —
more prepared, at least. And she needed to find a way out of their current
predicament. To the west lay the library, and its defences. Traps and
monsters. They had dealt with a number of each, but there would be more — and
they wouldn’t bother the houngans. So trying to head west would be suicide.
The escape route she had planned to take, to the northeast, was blocked by
powerful enemies, according to Ron’s report over the radio. And the rest of
the houngans were pushing up from the south and east.
“How are Sirius and Vivienne?” she asked Sally-Anne.
“Stable, but… they won’t wake up for a while yet,” the witch answered.
Hermione bit her lower lip. Push through as planned, or turn around and charge
at the enemies south of them? They seemed to be the weakest, mostly composed
of undead and some houngans, held at bay by Seamus, Tania, Emily and
Mary-Jane.
at the enemies south of them? They seemed to be the weakest, mostly composed
of undead and some houngans, held at bay by Seamus, Tania, Emily and
Mary-Jane.
She looked east, where Aberforth was still keeping the houngans focused on him
with a display of skill and power worthy of his brother. But how long could he
hold out by himself?
with a display of skill and power worthy of his brother. But how long could he
hold out by himself?
Noise and movement in the underbrush made her turn around and raise her wand.
Justin took a step to the side, behind a tree, setting up a crossfire. Celia
was still covering the west. They were expecting Harry, but she couldn’t be
certain.
Justin took a step to the side, behind a tree, setting up a crossfire. Celia
was still covering the west. They were expecting Harry, but she couldn’t be
certain.
It was Harry, dragging a floating Fleur behind him. Hermione hissed through
clenched teeth when she spotted the Veela — Fleur looked like she had been put
through a blender, with her robes torn and scorched, and covered with blood.
clenched teeth when she spotted the Veela — Fleur looked like she had been put
through a blender, with her robes torn and scorched, and covered with blood.
“I’ve done what I could but…” Harry explained, setting her down. Sally-Anne
was already moving, casting, her wand flashing.
was already moving, casting, her wand flashing.
“How’s the situation up north?” Hermione asked, trying to sound crisp and
calm. Panicking would be fatal.
calm. Panicking would be fatal.
“Bad,” Harry answered. “The houngans there are experienced, and entrenched.
They sent burrowing monsters at us — those ambushed Fleur — and kept their
distance.”
They sent burrowing monsters at us — those ambushed Fleur — and kept their
distance.”
Hermione mumbled a curse. If they pushed on… their entire position could
easily be overrun. “Can we break through their lines?”
easily be overrun. “Can we break through their lines?”
Her friend winced. “They have cleared an area from cover — we’d have to charge
their position over open ground.”
their position over open ground.”
Even without the Major’s lesson Hermione would have known what that meant. She
didn’t want to reenact the Battle of the Somme. She could call Remus, Tonks
and Brown to attack the enemy from the rear, but… they would take too long to
get into position.
didn’t want to reenact the Battle of the Somme. She could call Remus, Tonks
and Brown to attack the enemy from the rear, but… they would take too long to
get into position.
“I’m almost there!” she heard Ron over the radio. As before, she still aimed
her wand at the figure coming through the underbrush — which was now pretty
trampled all around — before she recognised him. He looked better than Harry —
not quite as beaten up. But if she didn’t find a way out of this trap…
her wand at the figure coming through the underbrush — which was now pretty
trampled all around — before she recognised him. He looked better than Harry —
not quite as beaten up. But if she didn’t find a way out of this trap…
He crouched down next to her and Harry, glancing at Bill before looking at
them. “I sent a few distractions at the enemy. I don’t think they’ll be quick
to pursue, as entrenched as they are. But they won’t wait forever.”
them. “I sent a few distractions at the enemy. I don’t think they’ll be quick
to pursue, as entrenched as they are. But they won’t wait forever.”
She knew that there was no time to waste, but they couldn’t rush off blindly.
She bit down on her lower lip and took a deep breath. “We need to reverse
course and push through the enemy line in the south.”
She bit down on her lower lip and took a deep breath. “We need to reverse
course and push through the enemy line in the south.”
“It’ll take us longer to push past the wind trap there,” Ron pointed out.
“The enemies there are the weakest. Mostly undead and some apprentices, I
think.” They certainly hadn’t used the curses and tactics Ron and Harry had
seen. “Aberforth holds our eastern flank, Tania and Seamus cover our rear —
they can mine the forest with explosives to hold them back, or at least delay
them — and we push through in the front.”
think.” They certainly hadn’t used the curses and tactics Ron and Harry had
seen. “Aberforth holds our eastern flank, Tania and Seamus cover our rear —
they can mine the forest with explosives to hold them back, or at least delay
them — and we push through in the front.”
“We?” Harry asked.
“Us three, Celia, Mary-Jane and Emily.”
“And we’ll transport the wounded?” Justin asked, gesturing at Sally-Anne and
himself.
himself.
“Yes.” Hermione nodded at him. “You can stick all of them and Rookwood on a
transfigured palette and levitate that.” It would be difficult, but they had
trained for that. Not as much as Hermione had wanted, but… it would have to
do.
transfigured palette and levitate that.” It would be difficult, but they had
trained for that. Not as much as Hermione had wanted, but… it would have to
do.
Justin opened his mouth, probably to argue, but then closed it, nodding. He
knew that he couldn’t leave Sally-Anne alone with the wounded, Hermione
thought. She glanced at Harry and Ron. Neither looked happy to leave their
family under someone else’s protection, but they must know that they had no
choice. They were needed in the van, to break through, just as Justin was
needed with Sally-Anne — if Hermione fell, he would be able to replace her.
knew that he couldn’t leave Sally-Anne alone with the wounded, Hermione
thought. She glanced at Harry and Ron. Neither looked happy to leave their
family under someone else’s protection, but they must know that they had no
choice. They were needed in the van, to break through, just as Justin was
needed with Sally-Anne — if Hermione fell, he would be able to replace her.
She pushed the button of her radio. “Tania, Seamus — fall back to the aid
station, then cover the northeast! We’re breaking through in the south. Mine
the forest as you follow us. Aberforth — hold our eastern flank. Mary-Jane and
Emily — hold position! We’ll be right there.”
station, then cover the northeast! We’re breaking through in the south. Mine
the forest as you follow us. Aberforth — hold our eastern flank. Mary-Jane and
Emily — hold position! We’ll be right there.”
She waited for the others to acknowledge the orders, then nodded at her
friends. A moment later, the three of them and Celia were sprinting
southwards, passing Tania and Seamus going in the other direction.
friends. A moment later, the three of them and Celia were sprinting
southwards, passing Tania and Seamus going in the other direction.
A minute later, they spotted two markers — Mary-Jane and Emily. The two
witches looked very relieved to see them arrive, and quickly filled them in on
the encroaching positions of the enemies.
witches looked very relieved to see them arrive, and quickly filled them in on
the encroaching positions of the enemies.
“Alright. Everyone — we’ll release the last of our Bludgers.” They wouldn’t
last that long — the houngans had learned to take them out quickly — but they
would at least serve as a distraction. ‘Celia, Mary-Jane, Emily — you fix them
in place. We’ll swing around them from the west, and hit them in the flank.’
She looked around. “Everyone got this?”
last that long — the houngans had learned to take them out quickly — but they
would at least serve as a distraction. ‘Celia, Mary-Jane, Emily — you fix them
in place. We’ll swing around them from the west, and hit them in the flank.’
She looked around. “Everyone got this?”
She saw them nod, the three new recruits not managing to hide their
nervousness — or fear. They would do, though, she told herself. She looked at
her friends, then keyed her radio.
nervousness — or fear. They would do, though, she told herself. She looked at
her friends, then keyed her radio.
“We’re attacking now!”
---
Harry Potter watched the Bludgers speed towards the enemy line. One Inferi was
exposed and hit by the Bludger before they disappeared into the jungle. Shots
from the three witches who had released them followed, which should draw more
attention from any houngans in the area not dealing with the flying iron
balls. He hoped it would be enough of a distraction that he and his friends
could cross the area between them and the enemy without getting cursed.
exposed and hit by the Bludger before they disappeared into the jungle. Shots
from the three witches who had released them followed, which should draw more
attention from any houngans in the area not dealing with the flying iron
balls. He hoped it would be enough of a distraction that he and his friends
could cross the area between them and the enemy without getting cursed.
Disillusioned, he slid around the tree he had been using as cover and sprinted
along the crater left by Seamus’s latest bomb. Ron and Hermione were hot on
his heels. Weaving around broken trees and shattered rocks, they reached the
treeline occupied by the zombies, and he saw two markers appear in his line of
sight — they were in range of the houngans.
along the crater left by Seamus’s latest bomb. Ron and Hermione were hot on
his heels. Weaving around broken trees and shattered rocks, they reached the
treeline occupied by the zombies, and he saw two markers appear in his line of
sight — they were in range of the houngans.
He cast a Blasting Curse at the closest marker and it vanished in a cloud of
earth and rocks and didn’t reappear. Ron moved to his right to cover their
southern flank and Hermione crouched down behind a tree trunk — transfigured
into steel, he noticed — on his other side. “Celia, Mary-Jane and Emily —
we’ve reached the enemy lines. Hold your fire and move up!” he heard her
order.
earth and rocks and didn’t reappear. Ron moved to his right to cover their
southern flank and Hermione crouched down behind a tree trunk — transfigured
into steel, he noticed — on his other side. “Celia, Mary-Jane and Emily —
we’ve reached the enemy lines. Hold your fire and move up!” he heard her
order.
The second marker had retreated out of range. That was a good sign — the enemy
might be breaking. He couldn’t see any Bludgers, but at least a few should
still be around. Time to push on.
might be breaking. He couldn’t see any Bludgers, but at least a few should
still be around. Time to push on.
He jumped up and rushed towards a tree peppered with splinters. Halfway there,
a figure stumbled out from behind the tree — an Inferius missing an arm — no,
an arm missing its bones. He blew the monster’s head apart with a Reductor
Curse, and it started to collapse in on itself, its bones vanishing. He set it
on fire anyway.
a figure stumbled out from behind the tree — an Inferius missing an arm — no,
an arm missing its bones. He blew the monster’s head apart with a Reductor
Curse, and it started to collapse in on itself, its bones vanishing. He set it
on fire anyway.
“Blimey!” he heard Ron curse nearby, “We better not get cut to the bone
ourselves!”
ourselves!”
Like in second year, Harry thought, before spotting another undead — this one
dragging itself along the ground with its arms, its legs having been turned
into flipper-like appendages. He turned the ground beneath it to petrol, then
lit it up. When he stepped through the thick smoke rising from the doomed
zombie, he held his breath despite his Bubble-Head Charm.
dragging itself along the ground with its arms, its legs having been turned
into flipper-like appendages. He turned the ground beneath it to petrol, then
lit it up. When he stepped through the thick smoke rising from the doomed
zombie, he held his breath despite his Bubble-Head Charm.
The Bludgers had been working better than he had expected — he saw and
dispatched two more crippled Inferi while they pushed eastwards, rolling up
the enemy lines.
dispatched two more crippled Inferi while they pushed eastwards, rolling up
the enemy lines.
“Houngans ahead!” he heard Ron yell. A second later, three markers appeared in
range and a tree between him and his friend shattered, the splinters bouncing
off their Shield Charms. Harry raised a stone wall in front of the enemy,
blocking their line of sight while he moved to the left.
range and a tree between him and his friend shattered, the splinters bouncing
off their Shield Charms. Harry raised a stone wall in front of the enemy,
blocking their line of sight while he moved to the left.
Predictably, the wall was blown apart almost instantly, but the resulting dust
cloud obscured them from the enemies a bit longer. Long enough for Harry to
conjure half a dozen snakes inside the cloud.
cloud obscured them from the enemies a bit longer. Long enough for Harry to
conjure half a dozen snakes inside the cloud.
Ron had moved further south, and was casting several spells at the houngans —
colourful, flashy ones, meant to draw their attention. When they answered with
curses of their own, driving Ron into cover, Harry rushed forward at an angle,
raising an earth wall to cover himself. Halfway to the enemy position he heard
the snakes scream obscenities as they attacked — and he noticed more markers.
Half a dozen, in total.
colourful, flashy ones, meant to draw their attention. When they answered with
curses of their own, driving Ron into cover, Harry rushed forward at an angle,
raising an earth wall to cover himself. Halfway to the enemy position he heard
the snakes scream obscenities as they attacked — and he noticed more markers.
Half a dozen, in total.
His wall shuddered as spells impacted it, and Harry threw himself behind a new
one before it crumbled. He rolled over the muddy ground, transfiguring a tree
in the way into a cloud of smoke. A flick of his wand turned it bright green,
and a swish blew it towards the houngans. He could see markers — and in some
cases houngans in their white clothes — moving back, away from him and the
cloud, to the east. They were breaking.
one before it crumbled. He rolled over the muddy ground, transfiguring a tree
in the way into a cloud of smoke. A flick of his wand turned it bright green,
and a swish blew it towards the houngans. He could see markers — and in some
cases houngans in their white clothes — moving back, away from him and the
cloud, to the east. They were breaking.
Snarling, he sprinted towards the enemy lines, past dead snakes, and caught a
straggler with a Fire Whip. His spell shattered the man’s shield and cut him
apart. Ron came up from the south, his Reductor Curse decapitating another
houngan who had come out from cover.
straggler with a Fire Whip. His spell shattered the man’s shield and cut him
apart. Ron came up from the south, his Reductor Curse decapitating another
houngan who had come out from cover.
One witch broke from cover and ran to the east. Harry sent a curse after her,
but missed. Then shots rang out from north, and the witch’s shield flared as
the bullets smashed into it. A few steps later, the shield failed and the
witch toppled over, struck by more bullets. Hermione appeared behind a tree,
waving at Harry before vanishing a large rock and exposing another houngan.
The three witches with her killed him with several bursts.
but missed. Then shots rang out from north, and the witch’s shield flared as
the bullets smashed into it. A few steps later, the shield failed and the
witch toppled over, struck by more bullets. Hermione appeared behind a tree,
waving at Harry before vanishing a large rock and exposing another houngan.
The three witches with her killed him with several bursts.
Harry spotted movement to his right — another houngan making a break for it.
Ron missed him with a Cutting Curse. Harry’s next Fire Whip — he was starting
to really like that spell — didn’t and her head and part of her shoulder flew
through the air as the rest of her crumpled.
Ron missed him with a Cutting Curse. Harry’s next Fire Whip — he was starting
to really like that spell — didn’t and her head and part of her shoulder flew
through the air as the rest of her crumpled.
The remaining houngan rushed southwards. Harry tried to line up a shot, but
there were too many trees between him and the fleeing enemy. Mary-Jane and
Emily were closer, though, and gave chase. Harry heard them fire, but he saw
all three markers still moving through the jungle.
there were too many trees between him and the fleeing enemy. Mary-Jane and
Emily were closer, though, and gave chase. Harry heard them fire, but he saw
all three markers still moving through the jungle.
“We’ve taken their position!” Hermione yelled into her radio near him.
“Everyone, move south, we’re breaking out! Mary-Jane, Emily — fall back…”
“Everyone, move south, we’re breaking out! Mary-Jane, Emily — fall back…”
Her words were drowned out by a horrible noise as trees, earth and rocks were
thrown into the air, into a hurricane forming above. Like before, when Fleur
had been cursed. “Take cover!” he shouted, conjuring a stone shelter around
his friends and himself. Soon wood and rock fragments rained down on them,
smashing against the stone walls and ceiling protecting the small group.
thrown into the air, into a hurricane forming above. Like before, when Fleur
had been cursed. “Take cover!” he shouted, conjuring a stone shelter around
his friends and himself. Soon wood and rock fragments rained down on them,
smashing against the stone walls and ceiling protecting the small group.
It didn’t last long, less than a minute, but when Harry rushed out again, he
found the area to the south razed, the jungle turned into a broad no-man’s
land more fitting the Somme — or the northern area Fleur had almost died in.
found the area to the south razed, the jungle turned into a broad no-man’s
land more fitting the Somme — or the northern area Fleur had almost died in.
“They were waiting for us. Those houngans were just curse-fodder,” Ron
muttered.
muttered.
An amplified voice rang out over the area as the last remnants of the
hurricane died down: “You cannot escape! Surrender!”
hurricane died down: “You cannot escape! Surrender!”
Harry hissed. He knew that voice. Reid.
---
Ron Weasley stared. A whole strip of the jungle had disappeared, turned into a
wasteland covered with rocks and broken trees. Mary-Jane and Emily had been in
the middle of it, chasing that fleeing houngan, when the area had erupted, but
he couldn’t see any trace of them… there! A green speck. He pulled out his
Omnioculars and zoomed in. There was a figure, near a rock, dark hair… “I see
Mary-Jane!” he yelled, and pointed out her position. He saw one of her arms
move slightly. “She’s still alive!”
wasteland covered with rocks and broken trees. Mary-Jane and Emily had been in
the middle of it, chasing that fleeing houngan, when the area had erupted, but
he couldn’t see any trace of them… there! A green speck. He pulled out his
Omnioculars and zoomed in. There was a figure, near a rock, dark hair… “I see
Mary-Jane!” he yelled, and pointed out her position. He saw one of her arms
move slightly. “She’s still alive!”
“We need to get her!” Harry yelled. Ron’s friend was already moving forward
when Ron saw a curse hit Mary-Jane. The witch blew up in a cloud of blood and
fragments of bone and flesh.
when Ron saw a curse hit Mary-Jane. The witch blew up in a cloud of blood and
fragments of bone and flesh.
“Reid,” Harry spat, ducking back behind a tree, while Ron swallowed, watching
the red cloud cover half of a rock and the earth around it.
the red cloud cover half of a rock and the earth around it.
“The wounded are on the way to us,” Hermione said near them. “We can’t reverse
direction again — we don’t have enough space left to reform our formation. We
have to break through here.”
direction again — we don’t have enough space left to reform our formation. We
have to break through here.”
“They’ll already have monsters burrowing towards us,” Harry told her. “We need
to block them with steel barriers underground.”
to block them with steel barriers underground.”
“Do it!” Hermione ordered.
“It’s a killing ground,” Ron said, studying the field and looking for Emily.
“We can’t cross that in the face of their curses, not quickly enough to avoid
getting hit — or running into traps.”
“We can’t cross that in the face of their curses, not quickly enough to avoid
getting hit — or running into traps.”
“We have to,” Hermione replied. “We can’t stay here.”
Seamus’s voice over the radio interrupted them. “I’ve placed a bomb in the
path of the enemy, but the radio detonator isn’t working — none of them are!”
path of the enemy, but the radio detonator isn’t working — none of them are!”
Hermione hissed, then spoke into her radio: “They must have placed wards to
block electronics as they advance.”
block electronics as they advance.”
“Shite!” Ron heard Seamus curse, then scoff. “I’ve got an idea about this!”
“What?” Hermione asked after he didn’t go on. “Seamus?”
“Seamus! What are you doing?” Tania yelled over the radio. “Seamus! Come
back!”
back!”
“He must already be inside the ward,” Hermione said.
Ron turned to look northwards. What was Seamus planning? Ron didn’t know much
about explosives, but the Irishman was the closest to an expert the Resistance
had. Apart from Hermione.
about explosives, but the Irishman was the closest to an expert the Resistance
had. Apart from Hermione.
Before he could ask her, a massive explosion erupted in the north, smoke
rising into the hurricane zone, where the winds rapidly dispersed it. It had
been bigger than the one which had taken down the houngans’ wards, Ron
thought. “Could he have…”
rising into the hurricane zone, where the winds rapidly dispersed it. It had
been bigger than the one which had taken down the houngans’ wards, Ron
thought. “Could he have…”
“Tania, can you see Seamus?” Hermione asked in a clipped tone.
“No. He rushed forward, reached the explosives, and a moment later they blew
up. No marker.” Tania’s voice seemed to lack any emotion, or so Ron thought.
He could hear her machine gun firing over the radio. “They seem to have
stopped advancing, but I cannot hold them back by myself.”
up. No marker.” Tania’s voice seemed to lack any emotion, or so Ron thought.
He could hear her machine gun firing over the radio. “They seem to have
stopped advancing, but I cannot hold them back by myself.”
“Fall back to us!” Hermione ordered. She turned to Ron again. “That means we
can’t banish a bomb at their lines to blow a hole into them.”
can’t banish a bomb at their lines to blow a hole into them.”
“There’s something moving to the west of us!” Celia yelled.
Ron turned around and studied the area through his Omnioculars. There
definitely was something moving there. A few Inferi, probably.
definitely was something moving there. A few Inferi, probably.
“Aberforth has joined us,” Justin announced over the radio. “He’s wounded, but
can walk and cast. We’re almost at your position.”
can walk and cast. We’re almost at your position.”
That meant that the eastern side was collapsing as well, Ron knew. He hissed
through his clenched teeth.
through his clenched teeth.
“There can’t be that many houngans left,” he heard Hermione say. “This island
only has two and a half million inhabitants. The British Isles have almost
sixty-two million. The magical populations should be proportional, even
accounting for the houngans’ past kidnappings and the losses Britain suffered
in two wars. They have always depended on zombies and voodoo curses to hold
their own against their enemies.”
only has two and a half million inhabitants. The British Isles have almost
sixty-two million. The magical populations should be proportional, even
accounting for the houngans’ past kidnappings and the losses Britain suffered
in two wars. They have always depended on zombies and voodoo curses to hold
their own against their enemies.”
“But it looks like all of the houngans are here,” Harry replied. “At least the
ones who can fight.”
ones who can fight.”
“It’s their most sacred place.” Hermione nodded. “But they’ll have spent most
of their forces. And they have to hold a long line. We can break through here.
We have to.”
of their forces. And they have to hold a long line. We can break through here.
We have to.”
“We’ll take casualties charging over that open, broken terrain,” Ron said.
“And we can’t use Fiendfyre on their position — it’d burn down the whole
jungle.” Including them. And bombs would be useless as well. But, he added
silently to himself, if he was the last one standing, and about to die, he’d
leave it as a parting gift for the damned houngans.
“And we can’t use Fiendfyre on their position — it’d burn down the whole
jungle.” Including them. And bombs would be useless as well. But, he added
silently to himself, if he was the last one standing, and about to die, he’d
leave it as a parting gift for the damned houngans.
Ron heard Hermione call Remus and Tonks and tell them to get ready to attack
the houngans in the rear — they could apparate to the location where Brown had
done the ritual; the houngans were north of it.
the houngans in the rear — they could apparate to the location where Brown had
done the ritual; the houngans were north of it.
“Brooms.”
He turned to Harry. “What?”
“Brooms.” Harry repeated and looked at him. “We have two Firebolts. Best broom
on the market. We’ve flown in a storm before.”
on the market. We’ve flown in a storm before.”
Ron hissed. That had been a Quidditch match to remember, and the storm hadn’t
been as powerful as the one waiting above their heads. But… it was possible.
They just had to stay roughly on course, and a Firebolt might be powerful
enough to push against the wind trap. Might be. He nodded.
been as powerful as the one waiting above their heads. But… it was possible.
They just had to stay roughly on course, and a Firebolt might be powerful
enough to push against the wind trap. Might be. He nodded.
“Can you do this?” Hermione was staring at them, biting her lower lip. Behind
her, Ron could see Justin moving through the underbrush. They were running out
of time.
her, Ron could see Justin moving through the underbrush. They were running out
of time.
“Yes.” Harry sounded certain.
Ron met her eyes and nodded. “Yes.” They had to. He stepped up to her and
kissed her, tasting blood — she had bitten her lips bloody.
kissed her, tasting blood — she had bitten her lips bloody.
He hoped it wasn’t an omen.
---
Behind a conjured barrier of steel and stone, Harry Potter pulled out his
Firebolt and mounted it then took a deep breath. He glanced at Ron and
Hermione. The two were still kissing and he fought the urge to tell them to
hurry. This might very well be the last kiss they shared… he shook his head.
He would make certain it wouldn’t be. He looked out, over the broken terrain
separating the houngan line from their position. Rocks and tree stumps formed
obstacles, some high enough to reach the wind trap above them, faintly visible
by the dust and ashes blowing around. They couldn’t hug the ground, he knew.
The slightest mistake would see them smashed to the ground, beaten against the
rocks and wooden shards jutting from the soil.
Firebolt and mounted it then took a deep breath. He glanced at Ron and
Hermione. The two were still kissing and he fought the urge to tell them to
hurry. This might very well be the last kiss they shared… he shook his head.
He would make certain it wouldn’t be. He looked out, over the broken terrain
separating the houngan line from their position. Rocks and tree stumps formed
obstacles, some high enough to reach the wind trap above them, faintly visible
by the dust and ashes blowing around. They couldn’t hug the ground, he knew.
The slightest mistake would see them smashed to the ground, beaten against the
rocks and wooden shards jutting from the soil.
No, they had to brave the hurricane, trusting their brooms to carry them
through. Harry knew they could do it — the Firebolts were the best brooms on
the market, miles beyond any competition. They could fly against a storm — but
could he and Ron keep them on course, and compensate for the changing forces
of the wind trap?
through. Harry knew they could do it — the Firebolts were the best brooms on
the market, miles beyond any competition. They could fly against a storm — but
could he and Ron keep them on course, and compensate for the changing forces
of the wind trap?
They’d find out in a moment. Ron stepped back from Hermione and Harry found
himself in a tight hug. “Don’t die,” she whispered into his ear before
releasing him.
himself in a tight hug. “Don’t die,” she whispered into his ear before
releasing him.
Ron had already mounted his own broom and disillusioned himself. “Ready.”
Harry nodded and cast a Disillusionment Charm and Sticking Charm himself.
“Let’s go.”
“Let’s go.”
They shot up over the barrier, straight into the wind trap waiting above. As
soon as they reached it, his Firebolt slowed down so much that, for a moment,
Harry felt as if he had flown into a wall. The wind tore at him, and if not
for his Shield and Sticking Charms, would have torn him off the broom. He
gritted his teeth and started to force the shaft down a little, towards the
enemy line. He started to move forward — but also lost altitude at the same
time.
soon as they reached it, his Firebolt slowed down so much that, for a moment,
Harry felt as if he had flown into a wall. The wind tore at him, and if not
for his Shield and Sticking Charms, would have torn him off the broom. He
gritted his teeth and started to force the shaft down a little, towards the
enemy line. He started to move forward — but also lost altitude at the same
time.
Pulling up again, he stalled a few times, and almost ended up smashed to the
ground when the wind shifted right when he overcompensated. But he managed to
recover and pull up in time. And he started to get the measure of the wind —
there was a certain rhythm to its attacks. He bared his teeth in a feral grin.
He could do this!
ground when the wind shifted right when he overcompensated. But he managed to
recover and pull up in time. And he started to get the measure of the wind —
there was a certain rhythm to its attacks. He bared his teeth in a feral grin.
He could do this!
He glanced around, spotting his friend’s marker some yards away, but also
still in the air. They could do it. Pushing the tip of his broom’s shaft down
a little, he started to accelerate towards the houngans’ position, weaving and
bobbing above the broken terrain, sometimes being thrown around like a leaf.
It would make hitting him with a curse more difficult, he thought with sudden
humour.
still in the air. They could do it. Pushing the tip of his broom’s shaft down
a little, he started to accelerate towards the houngans’ position, weaving and
bobbing above the broken terrain, sometimes being thrown around like a leaf.
It would make hitting him with a curse more difficult, he thought with sudden
humour.
Then he entered in range of his Human-presence-revealing spell, and half a
dozen markers appeared behind the enemy’s walls. A target-rich environment,
indeed.
dozen markers appeared behind the enemy’s walls. A target-rich environment,
indeed.
---
Hermione Granger held her breath as she watched her boyfriend and her best
friend fly into the hurricane above them. If this didn’t work… she gasped when
one of the markers dived down, and only sighed in relief when both markers
started to stabilise — as much as one could call their chaotic course stable —
and make their way towards the enemy.
friend fly into the hurricane above them. If this didn’t work… she gasped when
one of the markers dived down, and only sighed in relief when both markers
started to stabilise — as much as one could call their chaotic course stable —
and make their way towards the enemy.
She healed her bloody lips almost absentmindedly with a flick of her wand and
turned around. Justin and the rest of their force had arrived. Aberforth
looked like he had been mangled by one of Hagrid’s more interesting animals,
but the old wizard was grinning. “The eastern flank should be secure for a
little longer — I’ve left a few surprises for the houngans.”
turned around. Justin and the rest of their force had arrived. Aberforth
looked like he had been mangled by one of Hagrid’s more interesting animals,
but the old wizard was grinning. “The eastern flank should be secure for a
little longer — I’ve left a few surprises for the houngans.”
She was relieved to hear that — they needed to hold together for a little
while longer, so they could break out of this trap. “Good. Keep an eye on our
flanks and rear, Aberforth! Tania, help him!”
while longer, so they could break out of this trap. “Good. Keep an eye on our
flanks and rear, Aberforth! Tania, help him!”
The witch nodded with a grim expression. She didn’t look as if she expected to
survive, Hermione thought.
survive, Hermione thought.
“Sally-Anne, keep watch over the wounded and the prisoner. Move up as soon as
we have secured the enemy’s position!” She turned around and looked
southwards. Harry and Ron were almost there. She saw curses fly towards them,
and forced herself not to gasp. She had to present a confident, unflappable
facade for the rest of their group. “Everyone else, get ready — we’ll attack
in a moment.”
we have secured the enemy’s position!” She turned around and looked
southwards. Harry and Ron were almost there. She saw curses fly towards them,
and forced herself not to gasp. She had to present a confident, unflappable
facade for the rest of their group. “Everyone else, get ready — we’ll attack
in a moment.”
She could have done without Justin’s mumbled “half a league, half a league,
half a league onward” quote, but this wasn’t the time to rebuke him. Not when
it was just her, him and Celia who’d lead the ground attack. And, despite the
myth, the Charge of the Light Brigade had cost the British brigade fewer
soldiers than were lost to sickness during the campaign.
half a league onward” quote, but this wasn’t the time to rebuke him. Not when
it was just her, him and Celia who’d lead the ground attack. And, despite the
myth, the Charge of the Light Brigade had cost the British brigade fewer
soldiers than were lost to sickness during the campaign.
She keyed her radio when she saw Harry and Ron’s markers reach the enemy
lines. “Remus, Tonks — attack now!”
lines. “Remus, Tonks — attack now!”
Then she vanished part of the barrier in front of her and started to run
towards the enemy.
towards the enemy.
---
Ron Weasley saw three curses pass underneath him as he closed in on the enemy
position. Apparently, the houngans assumed that Harry and he were flying far
closer to the ground — quite understandably, of course; who would have
expected them to be so mad as to brave the storm? Well, anyone who knew what
crazy things they had gotten up to as kids at Hogwarts.
position. Apparently, the houngans assumed that Harry and he were flying far
closer to the ground — quite understandably, of course; who would have
expected them to be so mad as to brave the storm? Well, anyone who knew what
crazy things they had gotten up to as kids at Hogwarts.
Harry was ahead as usual — he was the better flyer — but Ron wasn’t too far
behind his friend. He looked at the markers from his Human-presence-revealing
Spell. Half a dozen were hiding behind what looked like massive walls. The
blighters had learned their lessons, he thought as he forced his Firebolt a
bit further up, gritting his teeth at the effort it took to keep the broom
somewhat on course in the face of the storm tearing at him.
behind his friend. He looked at the markers from his Human-presence-revealing
Spell. Half a dozen were hiding behind what looked like massive walls. The
blighters had learned their lessons, he thought as he forced his Firebolt a
bit further up, gritting his teeth at the effort it took to keep the broom
somewhat on course in the face of the storm tearing at him.
He saw Harry’s marker crest the wall and dip down, straight at the closest
enemy, and followed suit. Harry wasn’t landing though — he didn’t even slow
down, but seemed to fly straight into the enemy. A moment later, Ron saw a
figure appear, sliding down the wall they had been thrown into. He finally
dropped below the wind trap’s area of effect himself and cancelled both the
Sticking Charm holding him fast to his broom’s shaft and the Disillusionment
Charm — he didn’t want to risk friendly fire; especially not from Harry.
enemy, and followed suit. Harry wasn’t landing though — he didn’t even slow
down, but seemed to fly straight into the enemy. A moment later, Ron saw a
figure appear, sliding down the wall they had been thrown into. He finally
dropped below the wind trap’s area of effect himself and cancelled both the
Sticking Charm holding him fast to his broom’s shaft and the Disillusionment
Charm — he didn’t want to risk friendly fire; especially not from Harry.
Harry had already done the same, and before Ron managed to store his broom,
his friend had rushed ahead to a gap in the wall. There was a houngan behind
that, and Ron saw a curse miss Harry as he reached the gap. A flick of his
wand, and an explosion shook the wall, bits of earth and rocks thrown through
the gap, hitting Harry’s shield. The marker vanished a moment later.
his friend had rushed ahead to a gap in the wall. There was a houngan behind
that, and Ron saw a curse miss Harry as he reached the gap. A flick of his
wand, and an explosion shook the wall, bits of earth and rocks thrown through
the gap, hitting Harry’s shield. The marker vanished a moment later.
“One down!” Harry yelled.
Ron looked around. “I spotted five more…” Movement on his other side drew his
attention — no marker; Inferi or monster, then. He swung his wand around in
time to catch the charging skeleton with a Reductor Curse that left it in
twitching pieces on the ground. More of the ugly monsters appeared behind it
though. ‘Reid,’ he muttered, remembering the houngan’s flight from Hogwarts as
he cast a Blasting Curse that destroyed two of them and scattered the rest. He
was tempted to bury them under conjured stone, but they’d dig themselves out,
so he dispatched them with a volley of Reductor Curses as he fell back to
Harry. “I’ve spotted five of them,” he repeated. He tried to use his radio,
but as expected it wasn’t working here.
attention — no marker; Inferi or monster, then. He swung his wand around in
time to catch the charging skeleton with a Reductor Curse that left it in
twitching pieces on the ground. More of the ugly monsters appeared behind it
though. ‘Reid,’ he muttered, remembering the houngan’s flight from Hogwarts as
he cast a Blasting Curse that destroyed two of them and scattered the rest. He
was tempted to bury them under conjured stone, but they’d dig themselves out,
so he dispatched them with a volley of Reductor Curses as he fell back to
Harry. “I’ve spotted five of them,” he repeated. He tried to use his radio,
but as expected it wasn’t working here.
“Three of them are coming at us in front!” Harry yelled. “And more appear
behind them!”
behind them!”
Ron swore and raised a wall to cover their rear before moving to Harry’s left
side. The houngans had divided the area with several walls, and the ground in
front of him was littered with the remains of more skeletons, which had dug
themselves out of where they had been buried. A killing ground. They had to
clear it before the rest of their force arrived. “Let’s remove some of the
walls!” he said. He pointed his wand at the base of the wall in front — the
one behind which the houngan markers were advancing towards them — and
vanished the earth there. Unfortunately, the houngans had anchored the walls
far deeper than he had thought — the thing didn’t topple. It didn’t even
shake.
side. The houngans had divided the area with several walls, and the ground in
front of him was littered with the remains of more skeletons, which had dug
themselves out of where they had been buried. A killing ground. They had to
clear it before the rest of their force arrived. “Let’s remove some of the
walls!” he said. He pointed his wand at the base of the wall in front — the
one behind which the houngan markers were advancing towards them — and
vanished the earth there. Unfortunately, the houngans had anchored the walls
far deeper than he had thought — the thing didn’t topple. It didn’t even
shake.
This would be an even closer affair, as the Major would have called it, than
Ron had expected. But he had a few tricks left, too. He transfigured the
ground in front of the gaps in the walls to petrol, and when the hulking
figures of Inferi arrived, he set the ground afire. The monsters kept
advancing despite burning, but Harry cut half of them apart with his Fire Whip
Spell, and Ron vanished enough earth to trap the other half in a pit.
Ron had expected. But he had a few tricks left, too. He transfigured the
ground in front of the gaps in the walls to petrol, and when the hulking
figures of Inferi arrived, he set the ground afire. The monsters kept
advancing despite burning, but Harry cut half of them apart with his Fire Whip
Spell, and Ron vanished enough earth to trap the other half in a pit.
But the undead had kept them busy long enough for the houngans to clear the
gaps, and Ron had to drop to the ground when the first volley of curses flew
at him through the smoke from all the burning corpses and petrol. He rolled to
the side and returned fire with a Blasting Curse, but none of the markers
winked out — not even the one suddenly flying a yard to the side.
gaps, and Ron had to drop to the ground when the first volley of curses flew
at him through the smoke from all the burning corpses and petrol. He rolled to
the side and returned fire with a Blasting Curse, but none of the markers
winked out — not even the one suddenly flying a yard to the side.
A near-miss showered him with dirt — and parts of burning Inferi — and he
hastily conjured some cover for himself and changed position. At this range,
it didn’t help much — he was certain they had their own markers floating above
him — but even tagged, a moving target was harder to hit. A wave of acid — or
poison — splashed against his shield, and he rolled even further to the side,
further away from Harry. They were boxing him in, herding him into a corner,
he realised — he had a wall at his back, and on his left side.
hastily conjured some cover for himself and changed position. At this range,
it didn’t help much — he was certain they had their own markers floating above
him — but even tagged, a moving target was harder to hit. A wave of acid — or
poison — splashed against his shield, and he rolled even further to the side,
further away from Harry. They were boxing him in, herding him into a corner,
he realised — he had a wall at his back, and on his left side.
Clenching his teeth, he swung his wand and cast an Earth Wave. The ground
rippled in front of him, then rose six foot and rushed towards the two
houngans firing curses at him. He hadn’t aimed it well, and his spellwork
hadn’t been as precise as he would have liked, but he still clipped one of the
enemies — their marker suddenly dropped six feet — and the other fled behind
the next wall.
rippled in front of him, then rose six foot and rushed towards the two
houngans firing curses at him. He hadn’t aimed it well, and his spellwork
hadn’t been as precise as he would have liked, but he still clipped one of the
enemies — their marker suddenly dropped six feet — and the other fled behind
the next wall.
He saw an explosion to the south of them. Remus and Tonks he thought — but
that meant, he realised, that there were even more of the buggers that he had
thought, if they were fighting Remus and closing in on Harry and him at the
same time.
that meant, he realised, that there were even more of the buggers that he had
thought, if they were fighting Remus and closing in on Harry and him at the
same time.
Before he could move skeletal hands shot out of the ground, grasping for him.
They slid over his shield, but that wouldn’t last too long. He had to move! He
jumped up, transfiguring some of the ground into stone and trapping a few
limbs, then rushed back towards Harry. Before he had taken more than a few
steps though, the ground gave way under him, and he found himself in a pit
filled with skeletons; far too close to use any Blasting Curse on them.
They slid over his shield, but that wouldn’t last too long. He had to move! He
jumped up, transfiguring some of the ground into stone and trapping a few
limbs, then rushed back towards Harry. Before he had taken more than a few
steps though, the ground gave way under him, and he found himself in a pit
filled with skeletons; far too close to use any Blasting Curse on them.
He swept his wand around, casting a Fire Whip Spell. It wasn’t his favourite
spell, nor was he particularly skilled with it, but he managed to cut down
half of them before he lost control of it and the whip fizzled out. And that
bought him enough time to conjure a pillar of stone right under his own feet
and propel himself out of the pit.
spell, nor was he particularly skilled with it, but he managed to cut down
half of them before he lost control of it and the whip fizzled out. And that
bought him enough time to conjure a pillar of stone right under his own feet
and propel himself out of the pit.
He had barely cleared the edge of the pit, though, when his shield shattered
and he was flung backwards, sliding over the ground. The other houngan had
moved out of cover! Ron had managed to keep his wand and was whirling around
when his leg was hit with a curse and he screamed in pain.
and he was flung backwards, sliding over the ground. The other houngan had
moved out of cover! Ron had managed to keep his wand and was whirling around
when his leg was hit with a curse and he screamed in pain.
Panting, he flailed around. Another curse missed him by a hair’s width, and
the pain grew even worse as he rolled behind a mound of earth. Screaming
again, he pushed his hand into his enchanted pocket and pulled out the
self-shaving flying razor Dumbledore had left him, flinging it at the enemy’s
marker.
the pain grew even worse as he rolled behind a mound of earth. Screaming
again, he pushed his hand into his enchanted pocket and pulled out the
self-shaving flying razor Dumbledore had left him, flinging it at the enemy’s
marker.
He saw several spells miss the small, harmless thing as it flew towards the
enemy, and used the time to numb his leg until the pain was bearable. Merlin’s
balls, the curse had not just ripped off his trousers’ leg, but his skin as
well!
enemy, and used the time to numb his leg until the pain was bearable. Merlin’s
balls, the curse had not just ripped off his trousers’ leg, but his skin as
well!
Snarling, he rolled out of cover, his wand aimed at the enemy. Two Blasting
Curses later, the enemy marker winked out and he saw the broken body of a
witch in blood-soaked white linen appear. He tried to stand up, but even
numbed, his leg would not cooperate.
Curses later, the enemy marker winked out and he saw the broken body of a
witch in blood-soaked white linen appear. He tried to stand up, but even
numbed, his leg would not cooperate.
And he could see more markers floating above the walls. Approaching.
---
Hermione Granger hated not knowing what was happening to Harry and Ron, even
though she had expected to lose radio contact to them. And her group was not
even halfway to the enemy lines themselves — it took more time to navigate the
broken terrain than she had expected.
though she had expected to lose radio contact to them. And her group was not
even halfway to the enemy lines themselves — it took more time to navigate the
broken terrain than she had expected.
“Watch out for burrowing enemies!” she called out to Justin and Celia. She
didn’t know how fast the houngans could move their creatures, but the closer
they were to the enemy lines, the greater the danger of attacks from
underground.
didn’t know how fast the houngans could move their creatures, but the closer
they were to the enemy lines, the greater the danger of attacks from
underground.
The area really looked somewhat like the fields of the Somme in some of the
movies she had watched in Britain. Just without many craters. Uprooted trees
lay next to displaced rocks and even boulders. She was moving around a
particularly large tree stump when Celia called out: “Oh my god! It’s Emily!
Emily!”
movies she had watched in Britain. Just without many craters. Uprooted trees
lay next to displaced rocks and even boulders. She was moving around a
particularly large tree stump when Celia called out: “Oh my god! It’s Emily!
Emily!”
Hermione looked back and saw the other witch sprinting towards the east. She
sighed — the other witch was breaking formation and had apparently forgotten
their objective, even though it was a natural reaction to seeing a friend’s
body.
sighed — the other witch was breaking formation and had apparently forgotten
their objective, even though it was a natural reaction to seeing a friend’s
body.
“She’s alive!”
Hermione’s first impulse was to signal Sally-Anne and tell Celia to press on.
But the Major had told her repeatedly never to give an order that she knew
wouldn’t be obeyed. So she moved towards Celia as well, with Justin covering
their flank. Emily was unconscious, and looked more dead than alive — Hermione
could see a branch stuck in the witch’s abdomen, blood soaking her uniform at
several other spots as well, and at least one leg and one arm were broken —
but she was breathing. Celia was casting spells on her already, though
Hermione couldn’t tell if they were helping much.
But the Major had told her repeatedly never to give an order that she knew
wouldn’t be obeyed. So she moved towards Celia as well, with Justin covering
their flank. Emily was unconscious, and looked more dead than alive — Hermione
could see a branch stuck in the witch’s abdomen, blood soaking her uniform at
several other spots as well, and at least one leg and one arm were broken —
but she was breathing. Celia was casting spells on her already, though
Hermione couldn’t tell if they were helping much.
“We’ve arrived, and we’re fighting houngans!” Remus sounded over the radio. At
least that was going according to plan.
least that was going according to plan.
She keyed her radio. “We found Emily. She’s alive. Sally-Anne, proceed to our
position.” She released the button of her radio and turned to Justin. “We need
to sink steel walls into the ground, to defend against burrowing creatures as
we wait.”
position.” She released the button of her radio and turned to Justin. “We need
to sink steel walls into the ground, to defend against burrowing creatures as
we wait.”
They had managed to place two walls, forming a corner, when one of them shook
from an impact — below the ground. The creatures had arrived. At least there
were no houngans in range. But would the creatures burrow deeper, or up? They
couldn’t risk them coming up below Celia and Emily. She swished her wand and
turned the ground to steel, then stepped to the western edge of the wall.
from an impact — below the ground. The creatures had arrived. At least there
were no houngans in range. But would the creatures burrow deeper, or up? They
couldn’t risk them coming up below Celia and Emily. She swished her wand and
turned the ground to steel, then stepped to the western edge of the wall.
Nothing was appearing on that side of the wall. “Enemies below!” she signalled
the rest of the force. “Careful when crossing the no man’s land.”
the rest of the force. “Careful when crossing the no man’s land.”
“They’re underneath us!” Celia ylled. “I can hear them scratching at the
ground, and bumping against it!”
ground, and bumping against it!”
Hermione increased the transfigured area. Depending on their orders, the
creatures might continue northwards… or follow them south. That would endanger
Sally-Anne and the others. But they couldn’t dig them out, not before Emily
was safe.
creatures might continue northwards… or follow them south. That would endanger
Sally-Anne and the others. But they couldn’t dig them out, not before Emily
was safe.
Finally, she saw Sally-Anne approach. She regretted her annoyed thought at
once — the witch was levitating the wounded and Rookwood, and making good time
given that handicap. But they were exposed here, with an unknown number of
monsters underneath them, trying to break to the surface to attack them, and
they had to move to support Harry and Ron!
once — the witch was levitating the wounded and Rookwood, and making good time
given that handicap. But they were exposed here, with an unknown number of
monsters underneath them, trying to break to the surface to attack them, and
they had to move to support Harry and Ron!
And yet she couldn’t leave Emily here. Or Sally-Anne. The latter rushed
towards Emily and Celia and shooed the other witch away before casting spells
of her own. “She’s… oh god, that’s bad!”
towards Emily and Celia and shooed the other witch away before casting spells
of her own. “She’s… oh god, that’s bad!”
“How long until you can move her?” Hermione asked, forcing herself to sound
cool and collected, no matter how she wanted to press on and leave this area.
cool and collected, no matter how she wanted to press on and leave this area.
“A few minutes at least… that branch needs to come out before we can move her,
and once it’s out I need to stop the bleeding.” Sally-Anne wasn’t looking up
from Emily’s stomach, probing the skin around the wood lodged in there.
and once it’s out I need to stop the bleeding.” Sally-Anne wasn’t looking up
from Emily’s stomach, probing the skin around the wood lodged in there.
“They’re breaking through!” Justin yelled.
Hermione whipped around. Monsters with large claws — like oversized moles —
were breaking through the earth behind them. For a moment, she froze. Then she
drew her rifle and started firing. They had no shields, so bullets would work
best.
were breaking through the earth behind them. For a moment, she froze. Then she
drew her rifle and started firing. They had no shields, so bullets would work
best.
---
Harry Potter cursed his own stupidity. He had allowed himself to be cut off
from Ron by some conjured barriers when the houngans had charged them, and now
he was facing two of their enemies, with no support of his own. And he had no
radio either.
from Ron by some conjured barriers when the houngans had charged them, and now
he was facing two of their enemies, with no support of his own. And he had no
radio either.
Though he had the Elder Wand, he thought to himself as he blocked another
curse with a quickly conjured slab of stone. It vanished in an explosion, and
the splinters harmlessly bounced off his Shield Charm. Another wall rose
behind him as he moved — they were trying to hem him in — and the attacker
took cover behind a stone and earth wall. They were too wide to blow through,
Harry had found, but he had other options.
curse with a quickly conjured slab of stone. It vanished in an explosion, and
the splinters harmlessly bounced off his Shield Charm. Another wall rose
behind him as he moved — they were trying to hem him in — and the attacker
took cover behind a stone and earth wall. They were too wide to blow through,
Harry had found, but he had other options.
He flicked a Fire Whip to his left, driving the other houngan into cover as
well, and conjured several large rocks. A flick of his wand sent them upwards,
angled so they’d crest the wall — and the wind trap triggered straight away,
sending them down at the hiding houngan.
well, and conjured several large rocks. A flick of his wand sent them upwards,
angled so they’d crest the wall — and the wind trap triggered straight away,
sending them down at the hiding houngan.
The rocks wouldn’t kill them, but they didn’t need to. Harry was already
moving when they hit. A swish covered the ground in a fine sheen of mud, and
he slid around the corner without losing speed. The houngan there was too slow
to react to that and their curse went wide. Harry’s volley of Piercing Curses
didn’t, and he saw a tall man appear, still clutching at the hole in his chest
as he toppled over.
moving when they hit. A swish covered the ground in a fine sheen of mud, and
he slid around the corner without losing speed. The houngan there was too slow
to react to that and their curse went wide. Harry’s volley of Piercing Curses
didn’t, and he saw a tall man appear, still clutching at the hole in his chest
as he toppled over.
The other houngan screamed at the sight, and Harry had to block two curses
with another slab of stone. His enemy was exposed though, and had no cover
nearby. They tried to duplicated Harry’s trick, but he wasn’t aiming at them —
he was aiming at the wall behind them. His Blasting Curses might not be able
to break the wall, but they could break enough of it to shower the houngan
with deadly stone shards. Their shield collapsed after the third volley, and
the fourth ripped them to shreds.
with another slab of stone. His enemy was exposed though, and had no cover
nearby. They tried to duplicated Harry’s trick, but he wasn’t aiming at them —
he was aiming at the wall behind them. His Blasting Curses might not be able
to break the wall, but they could break enough of it to shower the houngan
with deadly stone shards. Their shield collapsed after the third volley, and
the fourth ripped them to shreds.
A few skeletons appeared, but Harry’s Fire Whip cut them down before they
could even get close. He was getting really good at that spell, he noticed.
Far better than in training — but then, he always performed best under
pressure.
could even get close. He was getting really good at that spell, he noticed.
Far better than in training — but then, he always performed best under
pressure.
He looked around. There was one marker floating where Ron had been. Either his
friend had taken both of the houngans there down, or… he saw one more marker
south of him, but he had to check on Ron. He turned around, trying to find a
way back, when wall next to him suddenly toppled over.
friend had taken both of the houngans there down, or… he saw one more marker
south of him, but he had to check on Ron. He turned around, trying to find a
way back, when wall next to him suddenly toppled over.
Harry’s shield saved him, giving him enough time to jump back before he was
crushed. The shield shattered though. He conjured an earth wall reflexively,
then had to duck when it blew up right away, clumps of dirt pelting him. If
that had been a stone wall…
crushed. The shield shattered though. He conjured an earth wall reflexively,
then had to duck when it blew up right away, clumps of dirt pelting him. If
that had been a stone wall…
Concealed — or so he hoped — by the dust cloud, he dropped to the ground and
recast his Shield Charm. More curses flew past him, and the ground where they
hit was covered with sizzling liquid. Acid.
recast his Shield Charm. More curses flew past him, and the ground where they
hit was covered with sizzling liquid. Acid.
One of the curses hit him, and covered his shield with acid. He rolled over
the ground, wiping it clear — and avoided another curse, a Blasting Curse this
time. Before he could retaliate, two more spells flew at him and once again
only a hastily conjured earthen barrier saved him.
the ground, wiping it clear — and avoided another curse, a Blasting Curse this
time. Before he could retaliate, two more spells flew at him and once again
only a hastily conjured earthen barrier saved him.
Whoever he was fighting was good. Probably Reid, he thought as he conjured a
thick cloud of smoke, obscuring him from view — but also his enemy. But he
vaguely knew where the houngan was, and conjured a few snakes nearby.
thick cloud of smoke, obscuring him from view — but also his enemy. But he
vaguely knew where the houngan was, and conjured a few snakes nearby.
His smoke cover was literally blown away a second later, and Harry caught a
glimpse of a houngan in white robes before walls appeared between them,
followed by a dozen Skeletons and Bone Walls advancing towards him. It had to
be Reid.
glimpse of a houngan in white robes before walls appeared between them,
followed by a dozen Skeletons and Bone Walls advancing towards him. It had to
be Reid.
He blew the skeletons and Bone Walls apart with a volley of Reductor Curses
while the marker floating above his opponent moved eastward. A gap suddenly
opened in the wall his enemy was hiding behind and more curses flew at him.
The spells went wide, but the gap closed before Harry could answer with a
curse or two of his own. He would have to be on his guard and wait for the
next gap to appear — but he was also certain that more monsters were burrowing
towards him right then. He couldn’t stay either, then. That left only two
options — retreat, or…
while the marker floating above his opponent moved eastward. A gap suddenly
opened in the wall his enemy was hiding behind and more curses flew at him.
The spells went wide, but the gap closed before Harry could answer with a
curse or two of his own. He would have to be on his guard and wait for the
next gap to appear — but he was also certain that more monsters were burrowing
towards him right then. He couldn’t stay either, then. That left only two
options — retreat, or…
Harry rushed towards the enemy’s position, his wand weaving a pattern in front
of him as he raised the earth to form a ramp for him. He reached the top and
was already casting again as he threw himself over the wall, triggering the
wind trap. Even as the wind roared and smashed him down, his Fire Whip lashed
out. He saw Reid’s eyes widen in surprise an instant before his spell slashed
through the houngan’s shield and body, splitting him diagonally from shoulder
to hip. A moment later, Harry slammed into the ground hard enough to shatter
his shield, and he felt his arm break.
of him as he raised the earth to form a ramp for him. He reached the top and
was already casting again as he threw himself over the wall, triggering the
wind trap. Even as the wind roared and smashed him down, his Fire Whip lashed
out. He saw Reid’s eyes widen in surprise an instant before his spell slashed
through the houngan’s shield and body, splitting him diagonally from shoulder
to hip. A moment later, Harry slammed into the ground hard enough to shatter
his shield, and he felt his arm break.
---
Ron Weasley had seen the markers wink out — Harry’s work, he thought. But more
were coming. He had to help his friend. Even with his leg useless. He pulled
out his Firebolt. He might not be able to walk, but he could fly.
were coming. He had to help his friend. Even with his leg useless. He pulled
out his Firebolt. He might not be able to walk, but he could fly.
Panting and with his leg numbed, it took him two tries to straddle the broom.
Then he stuck himself to it once more — if he fell off, he wouldn’t get up
again. “I’m wounded, but I can still move,” he said, pushing the button of his
radio. It still wasn’t working. He tried a Repair Charm, just in case, but
that didn’t help either. No matter — they were going to get out of this cursed
trap. He just had to get to Harry now.
Then he stuck himself to it once more — if he fell off, he wouldn’t get up
again. “I’m wounded, but I can still move,” he said, pushing the button of his
radio. It still wasn’t working. He tried a Repair Charm, just in case, but
that didn’t help either. No matter — they were going to get out of this cursed
trap. He just had to get to Harry now.
Ron considered flying over the walls, but quickly dropped the notion — he was
in no shape to manage that again. Instead he guided his broom around the
walls, trying to ignore the pain from where the shaft pressed against his
skinned leg.
in no shape to manage that again. Instead he guided his broom around the
walls, trying to ignore the pain from where the shaft pressed against his
skinned leg.
The houngans had created a veritable maze of walls, he found — riddled with
skeletons and other monsters, though they were too slow to catch him even
though he was hugging the ground on his broom. He blew a few of them apart,
but focused on getting to Harry. Just a few more corners… There!
skeletons and other monsters, though they were too slow to catch him even
though he was hugging the ground on his broom. He blew a few of them apart,
but focused on getting to Harry. Just a few more corners… There!
Harry was standing there, holding his shoulder, but had his wand aimed at him.
And there was Reid on the ground, cut in two. “How are you?” Ron asked.
And there was Reid on the ground, cut in two. “How are you?” Ron asked.
“Fine.” Harry answered. “You?”
“Fine.”
His friend snorted, then turned to the south. “I’ve heard a few more
explosions. They weren’t coming closer — looks like Remus and Tonks are
stalled.”
explosions. They weren’t coming closer — looks like Remus and Tonks are
stalled.”
Ron bared his teeth.
“Let’s go give them a hand, then!”
---
The battle was over. Hermione Granger was exhausted, most of her friends were
hurt, and they had lost too many people, but they had made it — they had
broken through the houngans’ lines. They could escape now. And they could use
their radios again.
hurt, and they had lost too many people, but they had made it — they had
broken through the houngans’ lines. They could escape now. And they could use
their radios again.
“Justin, Sally-Anne — portkey out with the wounded and the prisoner!” she
said.
said.
Justin looked at Ron and Harry, then at her.
“The unconscious ones,” she clarified — she knew her friends wouldn’t leave
until the last of their force were safe, even though they were hurt. Gravely
hurt, in Ron’s case — his entire leg had been skinned! She couldn’t imagine
how much that had to hurt.
until the last of their force were safe, even though they were hurt. Gravely
hurt, in Ron’s case — his entire leg had been skinned! She couldn’t imagine
how much that had to hurt.
Justin wasn’t about to argue either, and touched Sally-Anne and the
unconscious wounded with a piece of string. A second later, all of them
vanished.
unconscious wounded with a piece of string. A second later, all of them
vanished.
She turned around and glared at Harry and Ron. They acted as if they didn’t
notice. Neither did Remus, even though he had been cursed too. Idiots.
notice. Neither did Remus, even though he had been cursed too. Idiots.
She bit her lower lip. Where were Tania and Aberforth? If they waited too
long, the houngans might catch up, and trap them again. They had killed all
the houngans here, but there were more to the north and east.
long, the houngans might catch up, and trap them again. They had killed all
the houngans here, but there were more to the north and east.
There! She saw Tania and Aberforth stagger around the remains of a conjured
wall. They looked even more battered, especially Aberforth, but they were
alive and — unlike others — able to walk.
wall. They looked even more battered, especially Aberforth, but they were
alive and — unlike others — able to walk.
“Come on!” she yelled, pulling out her own Portkey. “Gather round!”
A minute later they were safe.
Chapter 66: Transitions
=======================
I’d like to thank fredfred for betaing. His help has improved the story a lot.
---
**Chapter 66: Transitions**
‘*At first sight the casualties of the British expedition to Jamaica in April
1997 would seem to indicate a catastrophe: Of the twenty-three witches and
wizards who took part in the mission, seven were killed and seven more were
hurt seriously enough to require extended care by Healers. Almost everyone
else was hurt as well, if not to a degree that the healer of the force,
Sally-Anne Perkins, couldn’t deal with. This view, however, would be doing the
operation an injustice . Those twenty-three witches and wizards had faced not
just the last Death Eater, Augustus Rookwood, one of the most dangerous dark
wizards of the time, but also the most powerful houngans of Jamaica — an
island feared by its neighbours. Outnumbered and surrounded, they managed not
only to escape, but also crippled the houngan forces in the process — a feat
that removed all doubt that even without Albus Dumbledore, Wizarding Britain
was still one of the most powerful nations of the Magical World. That, of the
seven dead, all but one were inexperienced members of the Muggleborn
Resistance further demonstrates this — none of the most prominent veterans of
the Second Blood War were lost on this raid. And this distribution of
fatalities was something that the remaining opponents of Sirius Black’s
coalition tried to use against him and Hermione Granger during the run-up to
the 1997 election that marked the end of the Second Blood War.’*
1997 would seem to indicate a catastrophe: Of the twenty-three witches and
wizards who took part in the mission, seven were killed and seven more were
hurt seriously enough to require extended care by Healers. Almost everyone
else was hurt as well, if not to a degree that the healer of the force,
Sally-Anne Perkins, couldn’t deal with. This view, however, would be doing the
operation an injustice . Those twenty-three witches and wizards had faced not
just the last Death Eater, Augustus Rookwood, one of the most dangerous dark
wizards of the time, but also the most powerful houngans of Jamaica — an
island feared by its neighbours. Outnumbered and surrounded, they managed not
only to escape, but also crippled the houngan forces in the process — a feat
that removed all doubt that even without Albus Dumbledore, Wizarding Britain
was still one of the most powerful nations of the Magical World. That, of the
seven dead, all but one were inexperienced members of the Muggleborn
Resistance further demonstrates this — none of the most prominent veterans of
the Second Blood War were lost on this raid. And this distribution of
fatalities was something that the remaining opponents of Sirius Black’s
coalition tried to use against him and Hermione Granger during the run-up to
the 1997 election that marked the end of the Second Blood War.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War’ by Hyacinth Selwyn*
---
**North of Jamaica, April 27th, 1997**
Sitting on a folded seat in the cargo plane, Hermione Granger wanted, more
than anything, to close her eyes and sleep. But she couldn’t. She was in
charge, and an officer couldn’t rest until everyone under their command was
taken care of.
than anything, to close her eyes and sleep. But she couldn’t. She was in
charge, and an officer couldn’t rest until everyone under their command was
taken care of.
And there were a lot of people in need of care. Sirius, Vivienne, Fleur, Bill
and Emily were still unconscious, strapped to cots in the middle of the
fuselage. They hadn’t been struck by dark curses, but their wounds were so
severe that Sally-Anne hadn’t been able to do too much beyond stabilising them
and treating the worst of the wounds. Remus might lose his arm — though no one
knew what curse had struck it, so a Healer at St Mungo’s might know a
counter-curse. And Ron… she glanced at her boyfriend, sitting next to her, his
leg wrapped in so much gauze, it looked like a cast. They had to be able to
regrow the skin on his leg at St Mungo’s! If not… she could think of a few
ways to avoid amputation, but none of them would be easy or too comfortable.
And they’d take some time to implement.
and Emily were still unconscious, strapped to cots in the middle of the
fuselage. They hadn’t been struck by dark curses, but their wounds were so
severe that Sally-Anne hadn’t been able to do too much beyond stabilising them
and treating the worst of the wounds. Remus might lose his arm — though no one
knew what curse had struck it, so a Healer at St Mungo’s might know a
counter-curse. And Ron… she glanced at her boyfriend, sitting next to her, his
leg wrapped in so much gauze, it looked like a cast. They had to be able to
regrow the skin on his leg at St Mungo’s! If not… she could think of a few
ways to avoid amputation, but none of them would be easy or too comfortable.
And they’d take some time to implement.
Celia and Tania weren’t hurt, not physically, at least. But Celia was a
textbook case for battle fatigue, as the Major would call it. The brutal
battle with so many of her friends dying had been too much for her. She and
Emily were the only two of the new recruits who had survived this battle —
Hermione shouldn’t have taken them with her to Jamaica. They hadn’t been
ready. Not for such a battle. But who else could they have taken?
textbook case for battle fatigue, as the Major would call it. The brutal
battle with so many of her friends dying had been too much for her. She and
Emily were the only two of the new recruits who had survived this battle —
Hermione shouldn’t have taken them with her to Jamaica. They hadn’t been
ready. Not for such a battle. But who else could they have taken?
And Tania… Hermione couldn’t remember her saying a single word since reporting
Seamus’s death. She’d have to deal with her, and soon. But not now.
Seamus’s death. She’d have to deal with her, and soon. But not now.
At least Harry and Tonks were finally resting, instead of uselessly fretting
over Sirius and Remus.
over Sirius and Remus.
Sally-Anne was moving from Sirius to Vivienne, waving her wand in the by now
very familiar pattern of a diagnosis spell. The witch had been up for close to
twenty-four hours now, and Hermione feared she’d collapse any moment. “Get
some rest, Sally-Anne,” she said.
very familiar pattern of a diagnosis spell. The witch had been up for close to
twenty-four hours now, and Hermione feared she’d collapse any moment. “Get
some rest, Sally-Anne,” she said.
“I can’t. If their condition worsens…” Hermione’s friend shook her head. “I’m
the only one who can treat them.”
the only one who can treat them.”
Brown had offered his help, but had been politely rebuffed. No one wanted the
Unspeakable to cast unknown spells on them. Especially not when anything could
be blamed on a houngan’s curse. Brown must have realised that as well, since
he had spent the flight so far apart from the rest of the force, with
Aberforth keeping an eye on him.
Unspeakable to cast unknown spells on them. Especially not when anything could
be blamed on a houngan’s curse. Brown must have realised that as well, since
he had spent the flight so far apart from the rest of the force, with
Aberforth keeping an eye on him.
“Their condition hasn’t worsened in hours,” she retorted. She glanced at
Justin, who should be backing her up, but her second in command had fallen
asleep about an hour, no, two hours, ago.
Justin, who should be backing her up, but her second in command had fallen
asleep about an hour, no, two hours, ago.
“That could change any moment. We can’t be certain, not with all those curses
flying around, and the poison they used.” Sally-Anne shook her head.
flying around, and the poison they used.” Sally-Anne shook her head.
“You need rest, Sally-Anne,” Hermione insisted.
“So do you.”
“I’ll rest after you.” As a good officer should.
“And if you fall asleep? Who’ll stand watch over the wounded?” Sally-Anne put
her hands on her hips, but Hermione could see that she was swaying on her
feet.
her hands on her hips, but Hermione could see that she was swaying on her
feet.
She pulled out a vial. “I won’t fall asleep.” It would keep her going for a
few more hours.
few more hours.
“Even with that, you won’t be much use either,” Sally-Anne retorted. “I’ll
wake up Justin instead.”
wake up Justin instead.”
Hermione decided to chalk that up as a win, and leaned and against Ron to rest
her eyes.
her eyes.
She didn’t wake up until they landed in the Bahamas.
---
**Atlantic Ocean, April 27th, 1997**
Inside the chartered plane, Harry Potter leaned back in his seat and tried to
sleep. Most of the others on board were asleep already. Or still, in the case
of those wounded who hadn’t woken up since Jamaica. Like Sirius.
sleep. Most of the others on board were asleep already. Or still, in the case
of those wounded who hadn’t woken up since Jamaica. Like Sirius.
He clenched his teeth. He should be happy — they had accomplished what they
wanted. They had captured Rookwood and secured the skull. Reid had been
brought to justice, too. And they had taught the houngans a lesson. But so
many of their own were dead or seriously hurt. And Harry himself was barely
scratched — his broken shoulder had been easily mended by Sally-Anne, without
even needing to use Skele-Gro. At least Sirius and the others hadn’t been
wounded by a dark curse. Unlike Remus. Harry had tried to dispel the curse on
his arm, but it hadn’t helped. Not even using the Elder Wand.
wanted. They had captured Rookwood and secured the skull. Reid had been
brought to justice, too. And they had taught the houngans a lesson. But so
many of their own were dead or seriously hurt. And Harry himself was barely
scratched — his broken shoulder had been easily mended by Sally-Anne, without
even needing to use Skele-Gro. At least Sirius and the others hadn’t been
wounded by a dark curse. Unlike Remus. Harry had tried to dispel the curse on
his arm, but it hadn’t helped. Not even using the Elder Wand.
His wand. He pulled it out — Brown was sitting at the very back, out of sight,
under the eyes of Aberforth — and rolled it between his fingers. He wasn’t
certain if it was only his imagination, but the wand felt alive in his hands.
Content, even. It hadn’t felt like that before, not even after the Battle of
Diagon Alley.
under the eyes of Aberforth — and rolled it between his fingers. He wasn’t
certain if it was only his imagination, but the wand felt alive in his hands.
Content, even. It hadn’t felt like that before, not even after the Battle of
Diagon Alley.
He remembered what Ollivander had told him: ‘The wand chooses the wizard.’
That implied that a wand was more than a simple tool, that it had a sort of
will, at least. And this was the Elder Wand. A legendary wand, one of the
three Deathly Hallows, passing from one owner to the next in ‘a history
drenched in blood’, as one tale about the Hallows called it.
That implied that a wand was more than a simple tool, that it had a sort of
will, at least. And this was the Elder Wand. A legendary wand, one of the
three Deathly Hallows, passing from one owner to the next in ‘a history
drenched in blood’, as one tale about the Hallows called it.
On the other hand, reading too much into Ollivander’s words was foolish.
Dumbledore certainly hadn’t mentioned anything like this, or he would have
warned Harry about it. But Harry was certain that the wand made casting curses
very easy — almost too easy. How had Dumbledore handled this temptation?, he
wondered.
Dumbledore certainly hadn’t mentioned anything like this, or he would have
warned Harry about it. But Harry was certain that the wand made casting curses
very easy — almost too easy. How had Dumbledore handled this temptation?, he
wondered.
Sighing, he slid the wand back into his enchanted pocket and pulled out his
old wand. Not that wielding the brother wand to Voldemort’s made him feel much
better, despite the phoenix feather forming its core.
old wand. Not that wielding the brother wand to Voldemort’s made him feel much
better, despite the phoenix feather forming its core.
He snorted. It would be both foolish and cowardly to avoid taking
responsibility for his actions by blaming them on a wand. He had chosen to
fight. He had chosen to kill. And he would do it again, in a heartbeat, if he
needed to protect his friends and family.
responsibility for his actions by blaming them on a wand. He had chosen to
fight. He had chosen to kill. And he would do it again, in a heartbeat, if he
needed to protect his friends and family.
Holstering his wand, he looked forward, where the wounded had been put up on
conjured beds — the air crew had had to be confunded to accept that without
questioning it. His gaze slid past Sirius and Vivienne, past Bill and Fleur,
until he reached Emily.
conjured beds — the air crew had had to be confunded to accept that without
questioning it. His gaze slid past Sirius and Vivienne, past Bill and Fleur,
until he reached Emily.
The witch had been badly hurt in the battle, but she would recover, according
to Sally-Anne. Harry had been relieved to hear that. But that was all. He
didn’t feel particularly anxious about Emily’s wounds. He hadn’t felt any urge
to be near her, to watch over her, to be there when she woke up.
to Sally-Anne. Harry had been relieved to hear that. But that was all. He
didn’t feel particularly anxious about Emily’s wounds. He hadn’t felt any urge
to be near her, to watch over her, to be there when she woke up.
He really didn’t love her, he realised. And he didn’t feel any disappointment
about that, either. He shook his head, then closed his eyes and leaned back.
Maybe now he’d manage to sleep for a few hours.
about that, either. He shook his head, then closed his eyes and leaned back.
Maybe now he’d manage to sleep for a few hours.
---
Ron Weasley woke up with a start from another nightmare composed of bleeding
trees, roaring hurricanes and undead houngans killing his family and friends.
He forced himself to calm down, taking deep breaths. The battle was over. They
had won. His family were safe. Hurt, but safe. Then he felt guilty for his
relief. Many had died, but he hadn’t known them that well. Not even Seamus —
either the war had changed the bloke a lot more than it had changed Hermione,
or he and Ron hadn’t been that close despite spending five years in the same
dorm.
trees, roaring hurricanes and undead houngans killing his family and friends.
He forced himself to calm down, taking deep breaths. The battle was over. They
had won. His family were safe. Hurt, but safe. Then he felt guilty for his
relief. Many had died, but he hadn’t known them that well. Not even Seamus —
either the war had changed the bloke a lot more than it had changed Hermione,
or he and Ron hadn’t been that close despite spending five years in the same
dorm.
Next to him, he felt Hermione, who was leaning against him, his arm caught in
hers, stirring in her sleep, and he quieted down even more. He didn’t want to
wake up his girlfriend — she needed the rest. She had run herself ragged
trying to handle everything, from taking care of the wounded to organising the
planes and dealing with the muggles. And, of course, she had managed. She
always did, even if it almost killed her. Like in their third year.
hers, stirring in her sleep, and he quieted down even more. He didn’t want to
wake up his girlfriend — she needed the rest. She had run herself ragged
trying to handle everything, from taking care of the wounded to organising the
planes and dealing with the muggles. And, of course, she had managed. She
always did, even if it almost killed her. Like in their third year.
Her hair tickled his cheek, and, once again, he missed her thick mane. He
sighed and shifted his weight a little, then winced when his hurt leg flared
up in pain. He should numb it, or take another Pain-Relief Potion — the
effects of the latter were starting to fade. But either would require him to
move Hermione so he could free his wand arm from her grip and reach his
holster or enchanted pocket. And that would wake her up.
sighed and shifted his weight a little, then winced when his hurt leg flared
up in pain. He should numb it, or take another Pain-Relief Potion — the
effects of the latter were starting to fade. But either would require him to
move Hermione so he could free his wand arm from her grip and reach his
holster or enchanted pocket. And that would wake her up.
So he closed his eyes and bore the pain. It wasn’t that bad, actually. Not
yet, at least. He’d had worse after the Battle of Diagon Alley, in the muggle
hospital. And he might have worse again, he added silently, if his wound was
the result of a dark curse and no one at St Mungo’s knew the counter-curse.
Aberforth hadn’t recognised the curse, and Harry hadn’t been able to do much
about it either. Hermione had mentioned more muggle procedures, something
about transplanting skin… he shuddered. They wouldn’t do it with magic, but
with knives! At least his dad would be intrigued, and if it meant he could
keep his leg, Ron wouldn’t complain. Much.
yet, at least. He’d had worse after the Battle of Diagon Alley, in the muggle
hospital. And he might have worse again, he added silently, if his wound was
the result of a dark curse and no one at St Mungo’s knew the counter-curse.
Aberforth hadn’t recognised the curse, and Harry hadn’t been able to do much
about it either. Hermione had mentioned more muggle procedures, something
about transplanting skin… he shuddered. They wouldn’t do it with magic, but
with knives! At least his dad would be intrigued, and if it meant he could
keep his leg, Ron wouldn’t complain. Much.
But he wouldn’t be sad if he didn’t see any battle again for the next few
decades. That had been a horrible battle. And to think that at the end, he had
been saved by another item Dumbledore had left to him… he fought not to
chuckle. In hindsight, anything could have served as a distraction. A flock of
birds, another Bludger— if he had had one left — or even a banished rock…
decades. That had been a horrible battle. And to think that at the end, he had
been saved by another item Dumbledore had left to him… he fought not to
chuckle. In hindsight, anything could have served as a distraction. A flock of
birds, another Bludger— if he had had one left — or even a banished rock…
But then, the houngan would have been expecting those things. A flying razor,
though… He chuckled. Harry had been gifted the Elder Wand, Hermione books, but
the items left to him had been surprisingly useful so far. Or not so
surprisingly, given who had left them to him. He would have to consider how to
use the remaining ones.
though… He chuckled. Harry had been gifted the Elder Wand, Hermione books, but
the items left to him had been surprisingly useful so far. Or not so
surprisingly, given who had left them to him. He would have to consider how to
use the remaining ones.
He was likely to have a lot of free time, too, while he healed up, he thought
with a glance at his bandaged leg.
with a glance at his bandaged leg.
---
**Hogwarts, April 28th, 1997**
When Sirius Black woke up, the first thing he noticed was the familiar smell
of the infirmary at Hogwarts. He was in a bed, his robes folded on a chair
next to him. And his…
of the infirmary at Hogwarts. He was in a bed, his robes folded on a chair
next to him. And his…
“Accio wand!” His wand flew towards him and he caught it easily. That calmed
him down a little. He seemed to be safely back in Britain, and not dying in
some jungle — or, worse, in the hands of the houngans.
him down a little. He seemed to be safely back in Britain, and not dying in
some jungle — or, worse, in the hands of the houngans.
But why had they brought him to Hogwarts, and not St Mungo’s? And, more
importantly, where were the others? Harry, Vivienne, Remus, Nymphadora? A
quick glance showed him that the beds next to him were occupied as well. He
could spot Vivienne even though he only saw the back of her head — he’d
recognise her hair colour anywhere. And… that was Fleur, over there, next to
Bill Weasley. And one of the muggleborn witches he didn’t know well.
importantly, where were the others? Harry, Vivienne, Remus, Nymphadora? A
quick glance showed him that the beds next to him were occupied as well. He
could spot Vivienne even though he only saw the back of her head — he’d
recognise her hair colour anywhere. And… that was Fleur, over there, next to
Bill Weasley. And one of the muggleborn witches he didn’t know well.
“Finally awake, Mister Black?” Pomfrey had arrived in the doorway. She sounded
and looked as annoyed at him as she had been during his school years — the
Hogwarts matron took a dim view of perfectly Gryffindor behaviour, in his
opinion, at least.
and looked as annoyed at him as she had been during his school years — the
Hogwarts matron took a dim view of perfectly Gryffindor behaviour, in his
opinion, at least.
He didn’t quip back, but simply nodded instead. “Yes. How long was I asleep?”
Asleep. That sounded better than ‘unconscious’. Or ‘half-dead’.
Asleep. That sounded better than ‘unconscious’. Or ‘half-dead’.
“I would need to know when you were hurt to answer that. But, according to my
information, you were unconscious for close to two days. Despite having
received magical healing on two separate occasions.”
information, you were unconscious for close to two days. Despite having
received magical healing on two separate occasions.”
“You fixed me, though.”
“I did.” Her lips formed such a thin line that he almost couldn’t tell where
her mouth was. Oh, yes, the matron was not amused, he thought.
her mouth was. Oh, yes, the matron was not amused, he thought.
But he wasn’t a student any more. “Thank you.” He turned his head towards the
others in the room. “How are they doing?”
others in the room. “How are they doing?”
“They’re sleeping, but their wounds have been taken care of.”
He smiled, relieved to hear that, even though he had known that they wouldn’t
be at Hogwarts if they couldn’t be treated here. “And the others?”
be at Hogwarts if they couldn’t be treated here. “And the others?”
“You will have to ask your friends about them.” Her face seemed to lose any
expression and she turned away.
expression and she turned away.
That wasn’t a good sign. He flicked his wand and summoned his communication
mirror. He had to know what had happened to everyone else.
mirror. He had to know what had happened to everyone else.
“Harry? Harry?”
The time until the mirror lit up and he saw his godson’s face couldn’t have
been longer than half a minute, but it felt like an eternity to him.
been longer than half a minute, but it felt like an eternity to him.
---
“So, Moony is in St Mungo’s?” Sirius Black asked while looking Harry over.
“Yes. Ron too.” Harry nodded, shifting a little on the chair next to Sirius’s
bed, before glancing at the other three who hadn’t woken up yet. “We brought
everyone who Sally-Anne said didn’t need to be treated at St Mungo’s to
Hogwarts.”
bed, before glancing at the other three who hadn’t woken up yet. “We brought
everyone who Sally-Anne said didn’t need to be treated at St Mungo’s to
Hogwarts.”
Sirius snorted. “Hiding how badly we were hurt in the battle?”
“Yes.”
“Good. If the houngans think they didn’t manage to do us much harm they won’t
start a war.” And would be more likely to give in during negotiations.
start a war.” And would be more likely to give in during negotiations.
Harry sighed. “We lost too many though. Seamus, Eric, Mary-Jane, Anna, Gary,
Sinclair and Timothy.”
Sinclair and Timothy.”
Sirius remembered Seamus. A bloodthirsty lad, according to Hermione. The rest
of the dead he had trouble matching faces to their names. He didn’t say that,
of course, but nodded as solemnly as he could while trying not to show his
relief that no one he really cared for had been killed. Although…
of the dead he had trouble matching faces to their names. He didn’t say that,
of course, but nodded as solemnly as he could while trying not to show his
relief that no one he really cared for had been killed. Although…
“What did the Healers say about Remus?”
Harry sighed again. “Not much. They’re looking for a counter-curse in their
records. The last war with Jamaica was a long time ago, and so the
counter-curses to their curses have not been needed for decades.”
records. The last war with Jamaica was a long time ago, and so the
counter-curses to their curses have not been needed for decades.”
That didn’t sound too promising to Sirius, but there was still hope his best
friend wouldn’t lose his arm. A three-legged werewolf would look odd. “And
Ron?”
friend wouldn’t lose his arm. A three-legged werewolf would look odd. “And
Ron?”
“His leg was skinned by a curse. It wasn’t the standard Flaying Curse, or so
they say, but the treatment is working, if not as quickly as expected.
Hermione mentioned some muggle method, but we’re trying spells first.”
they say, but the treatment is working, if not as quickly as expected.
Hermione mentioned some muggle method, but we’re trying spells first.”
Sirius shuddered. Muggle methods… they cut you up to heal you! That was just
sick! He took a deep breath. “Enough of others. How are you doing?”
sick! He took a deep breath. “Enough of others. How are you doing?”
“I’m…” Harry trailed off and cleared his throat, then sighed. “So many were
hurt, and I’m fine.”
hurt, and I’m fine.”
Sirius winced. Survivor’s guilt. “I can hex you, if that makes you feel
better.”
better.”
“What?” His godson was staring at him.
“See how stupid that sounds? Your friends wouldn’t want you to be hurt, just
as you didn’t want them to get hurt.”
as you didn’t want them to get hurt.”
Harry scowled at him. “It’s not that simple.”
“Of course it isn’t. But beating yourself up over it won’t help either. We’ll
get better.” He gestured at himself, then at the others in the room. “I’d
already be up and running if Pomfrey had not threatened me with dire curses if
I moved without her permission.”
get better.” He gestured at himself, then at the others in the room. “I’d
already be up and running if Pomfrey had not threatened me with dire curses if
I moved without her permission.”
Harry chuckled. “Ah, yes.”
The two of them reminisced about their various encounters with the matron for
a while, until Vivienne started to stir.
a while, until Vivienne started to stir.
Sirius was out of his bed and at her side in a moment, Pomfrey’s threats be
damned. The first thing she would see would be his smiling, relieved face.
damned. The first thing she would see would be his smiling, relieved face.
---
**London, East End, April 29th, 1997**
“‘One more such victory and we’re undone’,” Hermione Granger quoted Pyrrhus
under her breath as she finished her breakfast in the Resistance’s
headquarters. Fairfax Corbyn hadn’t touched his food the whole time she had
been there, and she doubted that he had taken a sip from his tea either. Pam
Roberts looked like she hadn’t slept for even an hour, and many of the rest of
the new recruits hadn’t shown up for breakfast at all.
under her breath as she finished her breakfast in the Resistance’s
headquarters. Fairfax Corbyn hadn’t touched his food the whole time she had
been there, and she doubted that he had taken a sip from his tea either. Pam
Roberts looked like she hadn’t slept for even an hour, and many of the rest of
the new recruits hadn’t shown up for breakfast at all.
“They’ll be alright. Just give them time.”
She turned her head and glanced at John, who had taken a seat to her left.
“Really?” Celia, who had been the only one of the new recruits to return
unscathed, had held it together better than the other recruits when Hermione
had told them about the Battle of Dry Harbour Mountains.
“Really?” Celia, who had been the only one of the new recruits to return
unscathed, had held it together better than the other recruits when Hermione
had told them about the Battle of Dry Harbour Mountains.
“They’re shocked, but that will pass. Most of them haven’t known the others
that long, and the way everyone is celebrating the mission as a huge victory
will make them see things in another light soon enough.”
that long, and the way everyone is celebrating the mission as a huge victory
will make them see things in another light soon enough.”
“It was a huge victory,” Hermione said. “But it came at a huge cost.”
“That’s a good thing for them to realise. It might make them a bit less eager
to start a new war.” John shrugged. “Some of them complained about being left
behind. That was before you returned, of course.”
to start a new war.” John shrugged. “Some of them complained about being left
behind. That was before you returned, of course.”
“Ah.” They should have known better, Hermione thought — the Resistance had
lost half their original members in the battles against Voldemort, after all.
But then again, none of the muggleborns had seemed to take the houngans as
seriously as the purebloods did. Including herself, she admitted guiltily.
Even after the incident at Hogwarts. “If all goes well we won’t be fighting
such a battle again in the near future,” she said.
lost half their original members in the battles against Voldemort, after all.
But then again, none of the muggleborns had seemed to take the houngans as
seriously as the purebloods did. Including herself, she admitted guiltily.
Even after the incident at Hogwarts. “If all goes well we won’t be fighting
such a battle again in the near future,” she said.
“Yes.” John didn’t say it, but his expression told Hermione that he wasn’t as
optimistic.
optimistic.
Neither was she, if she was honest. She sighed. “I’ll be out for the day.” She
nodded at the stack of letters on the table. “Visiting next of kin.”
nodded at the stack of letters on the table. “Visiting next of kin.”
John winced.
“I led them, it’s my responsibility,” Hermione said. She had been their
officer. After getting them killed, the least she could do was inform their
families in person.
officer. After getting them killed, the least she could do was inform their
families in person.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, April 29th, 1997**
“Good morning, Amelia!”
“Good morning, Sirius.” Amelia Bones didn’t quite glare in response to Black’s
cheery greeting, but she came close. The man acted as if he was just visiting
for a chat, and not to discuss the country’s diplomatic situation!
cheery greeting, but she came close. The man acted as if he was just visiting
for a chat, and not to discuss the country’s diplomatic situation!
She pressed her lips together when Black sat down in his usual seat, without
waiting for an invitation, and crossed his legs. As if it already was his
office.
waiting for an invitation, and crossed his legs. As if it already was his
office.
“Good to be back,” he said, grinning. “Travelling abroad was tiresome.”
“Tiresome? Half a dozen were killed and the rest of your group wounded.”
He raised an eyebrow at that. “Ah? Your spy’s been busy.”
She scoffed. “You blundered into a trap and almost lost your entire force.” If
that was an example of how he would lead Britain…
that was an example of how he would lead Britain…
“‘Almost’ but not quite.” He wasn’t grinning any more, just baring his teeth.
“We caught Rookwood and we taught the houngans that even without Dumbledore,
they can’t afford to mess with Britain. In addition to that, we recovered the
skull Voldemort stole from them. As far as the casualties are concerned…” He
shrugged. “They volunteered. Everyone knew that the mission was dangerous.”
“We caught Rookwood and we taught the houngans that even without Dumbledore,
they can’t afford to mess with Britain. In addition to that, we recovered the
skull Voldemort stole from them. As far as the casualties are concerned…” He
shrugged. “They volunteered. Everyone knew that the mission was dangerous.”
Amelia knew that. If Black, Potter and Granger had been among those killed…
well, they weren’t, and so such thoughts were just idle speculation. “A
mission you undertook without my knowledge.”
well, they weren’t, and so such thoughts were just idle speculation. “A
mission you undertook without my knowledge.”
“We couldn’t risk a traitor revealing our plans to the enemy.” Black was
smiling thinly.
smiling thinly.
Amelia clenched her teeth. Was he accusing her or simply talking about the
Ministry as a whole? She hadn’t exactly hidden Rookwood’s offer. “Both
diplomatic and military actions fall within the purview of the Ministry.”
Ministry as a whole? She hadn’t exactly hidden Rookwood’s offer. “Both
diplomatic and military actions fall within the purview of the Ministry.”
He snorted. “And the Ministry answers to the Minister, who serves at the
pleasure of the Wizengamot.”
pleasure of the Wizengamot.”
Which Black controlled. “Are you planning to replace me, then?”
“Eventually.”
He was baring his teeth again. Enjoying the power he had over her. She
resisted the urge to draw her wand and hex him. “Pius is more patient than I
thought.” With these ‘general elections’ looming, she would have expected her
nominal subordinate to push to become Minister sooner rather than later.
resisted the urge to draw her wand and hex him. “Pius is more patient than I
thought.” With these ‘general elections’ looming, she would have expected her
nominal subordinate to push to become Minister sooner rather than later.
“If you wish to step down no one will stop you. But you won’t, will you?”
She didn’t have to answer that. She wouldn’t shirk her duty. He and his
friends would have to force her out of office.
friends would have to force her out of office.
Black chuckled at her expression. “You’re a bloody stubborn witch, but you’re
predictable. And you won’t bend to anyone. Other than the Wizengamot, of
course.”
predictable. And you won’t bend to anyone. Other than the Wizengamot, of
course.”
Amelia just stared at him, not dignifying that with a response.
He sighed. “Well, what’s the status of Rookwood?”
She didn’t blink at the rapid change of subject, but took a moment to answer.
“He’s proving to be quite resistant to interrogation.”
“He’s proving to be quite resistant to interrogation.”
“To Veritaserum?”
“He claims that he would die should that be used on him. The Department of
Mysteries admitted that it was possible.”
Mysteries admitted that it was possible.”
“So the Unspeakables have taken precautions against such methods.” Black shook
his head. “Quite convenient, isn’t it? And yet Rookwood managed to betray
them.”
his head. “Quite convenient, isn’t it? And yet Rookwood managed to betray
them.”
Amelia had her own doubts about the Unspeakables’ claims, but, ultimately, it
didn’t matter much. “We have enough proof to try and sentence him without his
own testimony.”
didn’t matter much. “We have enough proof to try and sentence him without his
own testimony.”
“An outcome the Unspeakables certainly would prefer.” He shrugged again. “At
least he’ll get a trial.”
least he’ll get a trial.”
She ignored that remark. She hadn’t been in charge when Black had been thrown
into Azkaban without a trial.
into Azkaban without a trial.
“What’s the latest from the ICW?” Black leaned forward.
“Jamaica has submitted a protest against ‘Britain’s unprovoked act of naked
aggression’ to them,” Amelia answered. ‘It isn’t expected to go anywhere
though.’ Fawley had been gloating about the goodwill Black’s stunt had
generated for Britain among most of Jamaica’s neighbours. “They also demanded
that everyone who took part in this ‘atrocity’ was handed over to them.”
aggression’ to them,” Amelia answered. ‘It isn’t expected to go anywhere
though.’ Fawley had been gloating about the goodwill Black’s stunt had
generated for Britain among most of Jamaica’s neighbours. “They also demanded
that everyone who took part in this ‘atrocity’ was handed over to them.”
Black chuckled. “Empty words. By my count, we killed half their leaders and
more of their rank and file. They can’t afford a war.”
more of their rank and file. They can’t afford a war.”
As much as she would have liked to deliver Black and Granger to the houngans,
she hoped he was correct. “They’re sending an envoy to Britain.”
she hoped he was correct. “They’re sending an envoy to Britain.”
“Good.” He grinned. “I’m looking forward to discussing matters with them.
You’ll be present as well, of course. Wouldn’t want to encroach upon matters
which fall within the purview of the Minister.”
You’ll be present as well, of course. Wouldn’t want to encroach upon matters
which fall within the purview of the Minister.”
Amelia clenched her teeth and nodded. If only Black had been killed, or at
least cursed, in Jamaica.
least cursed, in Jamaica.
---
**London, St Mungo’s, April 30th, 1997**
Ron Weasley had his wand pointed at the door as soon as he heard the knock.
“Yes?”
“Yes?”
“It’s me.”
He knew that voice by heart, and with a flick of his wand, opened the door,
revealing Hermione standing there. She was wearing casual clothes. Muggle
ones, not robes.
revealing Hermione standing there. She was wearing casual clothes. Muggle
ones, not robes.
“Hey.” Her greeting sounded far too shy for her in his opinion. Almost timid.
The same went for her smile.
The same went for her smile.
“Hi.” He took care not to frown. She looked as if she had bad news to tell
him. “What’s wrong?”
him. “What’s wrong?”
“Nothing.” She walked over to his bed and bent down to hug him.
He used the opportunity to wrap his arms around her and pull her down to sit
next to him, ignoring her surprised protest. On the side of his good leg, of
course. His other leg was held aloft by a spell, still covered in bandages. It
was getting better though — the skin was growing back, inch by inch, and the
Healers had managed to make the process almost painless too. He hadn’t had any
feeling in it for days, but that was a small price to pay to be free of pain.
“So… what’s bothering you?” he asked. “Trouble with the Ministry?” He didn’t
trust Bones.
next to him, ignoring her surprised protest. On the side of his good leg, of
course. His other leg was held aloft by a spell, still covered in bandages. It
was getting better though — the skin was growing back, inch by inch, and the
Healers had managed to make the process almost painless too. He hadn’t had any
feeling in it for days, but that was a small price to pay to be free of pain.
“So… what’s bothering you?” he asked. “Trouble with the Ministry?” He didn’t
trust Bones.
“No.” She shook her head with a slight pout after abandoning her efforts to
extract herself from his arms. “It’s just… So many died or were wounded…”
extract herself from his arms. “It’s just… So many died or were wounded…”
He caught her glancing at his leg and shook his head, frowning. “It’s not your
fault.”
fault.”
“I was in command.” She narrowed her eyes in that familiar way he knew meant
she was digging her heels in.
she was digging her heels in.
“And you did your best.” He squeezed her lightly.
“It wasn’t good enough.”
“The hell it wasn’t! We made it out of that trap, and we did what we went
for.” When she whipped her head around to stare at him, startled by his
outburst, he didn’t flinch.
for.” When she whipped her head around to stare at him, startled by his
outburst, he didn’t flinch.
She shook her head. “I made too many mistakes. I should have expected a trap.
I should have been prepared.”
I should have been prepared.”
“You can’t be prepared for everything. Sometimes there is no good solution,
just the least bad.” Moody had been quite clear about that.
just the least bad.” Moody had been quite clear about that.
“That’s no consolation for the dead, or their next of kin.”
Of course it wasn’t. “Nothing is.” He blinked. “Did you meet them? The next of
kin, I mean.”
kin, I mean.”
“Yes.”
He hissed through his clenched teeth. That explained her state. Instead of
saying anything else, he just held her close.
saying anything else, he just held her close.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, May 1st, 1997**
“Hello! Might you be interested in the upcoming election? I’m a member of the
Muggleborn Popular Party.”
Muggleborn Popular Party.”
Bess Cox was certain that she hadn’t ever smiled as long and as hard as she
had this afternoon. But, she thought to herself, as the muggleborn wizard she
had approached shook his head and turned away, it hadn’t helped much.
Apparently, there wasn’t as much interest in their party as Randall and she
had imagined when they had founded it. Or, as Randall had put it: they had to
work harder on the ‘Popular’ part.
had this afternoon. But, she thought to herself, as the muggleborn wizard she
had approached shook his head and turned away, it hadn’t helped much.
Apparently, there wasn’t as much interest in their party as Randall and she
had imagined when they had founded it. Or, as Randall had put it: they had to
work harder on the ‘Popular’ part.
Much harder, she thought while she walked back to the stand Randall had
conjured next to Winston’s. “The population seems to be lacking any interest
in politics,” she said, sitting down next to him and dropping the stack of
leaflets on the small table.
conjured next to Winston’s. “The population seems to be lacking any interest
in politics,” she said, sitting down next to him and dropping the stack of
leaflets on the small table.
“They are still focused on the events in Jamaica,” her friend answered.
Bess scoffed, but didn’t otherwise comment. She was glad that the Resistance
had captured Rookwood, and that they had found a lead on a cure for the
Withering Curse, but the close cooperation with the purebloods, and with the
Ministry…
had captured Rookwood, and that they had found a lead on a cure for the
Withering Curse, but the close cooperation with the purebloods, and with the
Ministry…
“Smile! There’s a couple headed towards us,” Randall whispered, poking her
side under the table.
side under the table.
Bess started smiling before she spotted the two Randall had indicated. They
seemed to be be about her age. Both muggleborn, she guessed — their muggle
clothes fit and were not out of date. “Hello!” she said, beaming at them. ‘Are
you interested in politics?’ She gestured at the leaflets on the table. “We’re
members of the Muggleborn Popular Party.” The only members so far, but she
didn’t have to mention that.
seemed to be be about her age. Both muggleborn, she guessed — their muggle
clothes fit and were not out of date. “Hello!” she said, beaming at them. ‘Are
you interested in politics?’ She gestured at the leaflets on the table. “We’re
members of the Muggleborn Popular Party.” The only members so far, but she
didn’t have to mention that.
The two picked up a leaflet and read it. Randall waited a few seconds, then
said: “We want to offer an alternative to the Resistance. They have done a lot
for us, fought and won the war, but that doesn’t mean that they know what’s
best for Britain in peace.”
said: “We want to offer an alternative to the Resistance. They have done a lot
for us, fought and won the war, but that doesn’t mean that they know what’s
best for Britain in peace.”
Bess noticed that both tensed up when the Resistance were mentioned, and
wondered silently if the two had had trouble with them. Maybe they were
purebloods who knew how to act like muggleborns. Agents, maybe…
wondered silently if the two had had trouble with them. Maybe they were
purebloods who knew how to act like muggleborns. Agents, maybe…
“They’re very violent,” the woman said. “We could have talked to the houngans,
sorted this out. Rookwood was attacking them. Instead the Resistance attacked
them.”
sorted this out. Rookwood was attacking them. Instead the Resistance attacked
them.”
“A friend of ours died in that battle. Mary-Jane,” the man added. “If the
Resistance hadn’t invaded Jamaica she’d still be alive.”
Resistance hadn’t invaded Jamaica she’d still be alive.”
A friend of theirs had fought the houngans? And had been killed? Bess had
heard there’d been casualties, but not any details. “I’ve lost friends in the
war too,” she told them.
heard there’d been casualties, but not any details. “I’ve lost friends in the
war too,” she told them.
“And now they are talking anyway — the houngans are sending an envoy to
Britain, to meet with the Ministry,” the witch continued. “Should have done
that from the start.”
Britain, to meet with the Ministry,” the witch continued. “Should have done
that from the start.”
“I only know what was written in the Prophet about the battle in Jamaica,”
Randall said, “but we certainly shouldn’t resort to violence too quickly.”
Randall said, “but we certainly shouldn’t resort to violence too quickly.”
Bess almost frowned at that. There was a place and time for violence, for
fighting back. But the elections weren’t it. “I don’t like that the Resistance
is working so closely with the same Ministry that did their best to oppress us
not even a year ago.”
fighting back. But the elections weren’t it. “I don’t like that the Resistance
is working so closely with the same Ministry that did their best to oppress us
not even a year ago.”
Randall took over. “The Resistance and Black’s Order of the Phoenix are
closely tied together. Too closely. That’s why we want to present an
alternative for muggleborns. Choices and options are good.”
closely tied together. Too closely. That’s why we want to present an
alternative for muggleborns. Choices and options are good.”
The couple nodded. “Yes,” the witch said, “We can’t let one group — especially
not a group of soldiers — determine our future. Ah! I’m Liz, and he’s Marc, by
the way.”
not a group of soldiers — determine our future. Ah! I’m Liz, and he’s Marc, by
the way.”
“I’m Bess.” Until the rumours that there was an amnesty being prepared for
people like her were confirmed, Bess wasn’t giving out her full name.
people like her were confirmed, Bess wasn’t giving out her full name.
“I’m Randall.”
Liz and Marc hadn’t put the leaflet back, Bess noted. And they didn’t look
like they were about to leave either. Maybe the Muggleborn Popular Party might
double their membership today.
like they were about to leave either. Maybe the Muggleborn Popular Party might
double their membership today.
---
**Hogwarts, May 3rd, 1997**
Once again, Harry Potter felt more than a bit odd as he returned to Hogwarts.
A week ago, he had been battling houngans in the jungles of Jamaica, fighting
for his life in a maze of traps and ambushes. And now he was supposed to care
about Defence lessons?
A week ago, he had been battling houngans in the jungles of Jamaica, fighting
for his life in a maze of traps and ambushes. And now he was supposed to care
about Defence lessons?
But he didn’t have any excuse not to return to school. He could travel to
London for the Wizengamot sessions easily enough, and, unlike Ron, who was
still in St Mungo’s, his wounds had been easily healed. Well, it wasn’t as if
he loathed going to school. It just felt weird, after everything he had gone
through.
London for the Wizengamot sessions easily enough, and, unlike Ron, who was
still in St Mungo’s, his wounds had been easily healed. Well, it wasn’t as if
he loathed going to school. It just felt weird, after everything he had gone
through.
He shook his head and approached the gargoyle guarding the entrance to the
Headmaster’s — Headmistress’ now — office.
Headmaster’s — Headmistress’ now — office.
“Transylvanian Tackle.”
As Harry climbed the moving stairs, he wondered if picking themed passwords
was a requirement or simply a tradition at Hogwarts. Hermione would probably
know, he thought.
was a requirement or simply a tradition at Hogwarts. Hermione would probably
know, he thought.
“Please come in, Mister Potter.” McGonagall sounded as crisp as he remembered
from his earlier years. Though not quite as annoyed as she had usually sounded
when talking to him in her office.
from his earlier years. Though not quite as annoyed as she had usually sounded
when talking to him in her office.
“Good afternoon, Headmistress.” He sat down on one of the chairs in front of
her desk. The office hadn’t changed much compared to his last visit.
her desk. The office hadn’t changed much compared to his last visit.
“Good afternoon. It’s been a while since you’ve graced the halls of Hogwarts.”
She wasn’t smiling, but she didn’t look that annoyed either — certainly less
than after some of his past adventures.
She wasn’t smiling, but she didn’t look that annoyed either — certainly less
than after some of his past adventures.
He made a point of shrugging as casually as he could manage. “Matters of state
required me to be elsewhere, ma’am.”
required me to be elsewhere, ma’am.”
Now she was frowning. “A thoroughly regrettable state of affairs. To think we
had to send you off to war, again…” The old witch shook her head. “If Albus
was still alive, this wouldn’t have happened.”
had to send you off to war, again…” The old witch shook her head. “If Albus
was still alive, this wouldn’t have happened.”
“Well, of course.” That was rather obvious, in his opinion, and his tone made
clear what he thought of the statement.
clear what he thought of the statement.
She narrowed her eyes, not quite glaring at him. After a moment, she sighed.
“Yes, of course.”
“Yes, of course.”
Harry slowly nodded. He felt a bit bad for his cheek, but… McGonagall hadn’t
been out there fighting Death Eaters, Voldemort and houngans.
been out there fighting Death Eaters, Voldemort and houngans.
The Headmistress went on: “Well, you have missed quite a few lessons, Mister
Potter. Although since this is your sixth year, I gather you’re not quite as
concerned about how that will affect your grades.”
Potter. Although since this is your sixth year, I gather you’re not quite as
concerned about how that will affect your grades.”
He grinned at that. As if he cared about his grades after what he had gone
through. “No, ma’am. I reckon that I don’t need to worry about how my grades
might affect my future career.”
through. “No, ma’am. I reckon that I don’t need to worry about how my grades
might affect my future career.”
“No, I don’t think so either.” Once again she shook her head. “Although Miss
Granger might not agree with such a sentiment.”
Granger might not agree with such a sentiment.”
He winced at that, then he reconsidered. Hermione had changed too. “Maybe,
ma’am. We’re not the students who took our O.W.L.s any more.”
ma’am. We’re not the students who took our O.W.L.s any more.”
She looked rather sad to hear this. “No, you’re not. I would even say that you
and your friends have already started your careers. Orders of Merlin, First
Class, members of the Wizengamot, war heroes… not many adult wizards and
witches ever come close to your achievements.”
and your friends have already started your careers. Orders of Merlin, First
Class, members of the Wizengamot, war heroes… not many adult wizards and
witches ever come close to your achievements.”
“At least we didn’t receive our awards for something our parents did,” Harry
retorted. They had had help, of course. All the other brave Resistance and
Order members who had fought as well, many of them dying in the war. But he
didn’t feel as if he had done nothing to earn this.
retorted. They had had help, of course. All the other brave Resistance and
Order members who had fought as well, many of them dying in the war. But he
didn’t feel as if he had done nothing to earn this.
“Indeed. You have earned it, no doubt.” She leaned forward, folding her arms
with her elbows propped on her desk. “However, here at Hogwarts, you are still
a student. You can’t be seen to flout the rules.”
with her elbows propped on her desk. “However, here at Hogwarts, you are still
a student. You can’t be seen to flout the rules.”
“We won’t be seen, Headmistress.” He grinned. ‘Ron and I, I mean.’ Her frown
deepened, almost turning into a scowl, so he continued in a more serious tone.
“But as I said — we’re not the same students who took our O.W.L.s any more,
and it would be pointless to pretend otherwise. How many of your other
students have fought and killed in a war?”
deepened, almost turning into a scowl, so he continued in a more serious tone.
“But as I said — we’re not the same students who took our O.W.L.s any more,
and it would be pointless to pretend otherwise. How many of your other
students have fought and killed in a war?”
She didn’t flinch, but her expression grew a little softer, or so he thought.
“A bit of normalcy can be very helpful in dealing with such experiences. At
least I found that to be true.”
“A bit of normalcy can be very helpful in dealing with such experiences. At
least I found that to be true.”
She had probably fought Grindelwald, Harry thought. Or Death Eaters in the
First Blood War. But he wasn’t her. “I’ve found that normalcy is overrated,
ma’am. My relatives wanted to be normal at any cost. I wanted to be normal, to
be ‘just Harry’ as well.” He shook his head. “But I’m not normal. I have never
been normal. There was even a prophecy about my birth.”
First Blood War. But he wasn’t her. “I’ve found that normalcy is overrated,
ma’am. My relatives wanted to be normal at any cost. I wanted to be normal, to
be ‘just Harry’ as well.” He shook his head. “But I’m not normal. I have never
been normal. There was even a prophecy about my birth.”
“Divination is not reliable.”
“It might not be reliable, but Voldemort did want to kill me since I was born.
Which led to me becoming the Boy-Who-Lived. I wasn’t a normal student at
Hogwarts either, as you know, probably best among the current staff. And now
I’m the Vanquisher of Voldemort, according to the Prophet. And many will see
me as the next Dumbledore.” That had been one of the goals, after all, of
their plan to force the houngans to back down.
Which led to me becoming the Boy-Who-Lived. I wasn’t a normal student at
Hogwarts either, as you know, probably best among the current staff. And now
I’m the Vanquisher of Voldemort, according to the Prophet. And many will see
me as the next Dumbledore.” That had been one of the goals, after all, of
their plan to force the houngans to back down.
“That seems a tad… presumptuous, Mister Potter.”
He shrugged. “I don’t claim to be the next Dumbledore. But I didn’t claim to
be the Boy-Who-Lived either; others called me that. And I’m rather certain
that I will have to deal with a lot of trouble as a result of my reputation.
My friends as well, I think. We certainly have in the past.”
be the Boy-Who-Lived either; others called me that. And I’m rather certain
that I will have to deal with a lot of trouble as a result of my reputation.
My friends as well, I think. We certainly have in the past.”
To McGonagall’s credit, she didn’t try to claim that this wouldn’t happen. “If
that is the case, then I wonder why you want to return to school at all,
Mister Potter. You seem to think that you do not need to, and that you
wouldn’t fit in at Hogwarts any more.”
that is the case, then I wonder why you want to return to school at all,
Mister Potter. You seem to think that you do not need to, and that you
wouldn’t fit in at Hogwarts any more.”
He chuckled. “Well, to be honest, I didn’t plan to return. But Sirius
convinced me to. He told me to consider it a vacation. Hanging around with
friends, playing Quidditch, relaxing in one of the safest places in Britain…”
He smiled. Hogwarts had been the first home he remembered, too. He had never
wanted to leave it in order to return to Privet Drive. Something Sirius
understood far better than anyone else.
convinced me to. He told me to consider it a vacation. Hanging around with
friends, playing Quidditch, relaxing in one of the safest places in Britain…”
He smiled. Hogwarts had been the first home he remembered, too. He had never
wanted to leave it in order to return to Privet Drive. Something Sirius
understood far better than anyone else.
“I do hope that you do not follow all of your godfather’s advice, though.” It
was hard to tell if McGonagall was truly concerned, or if — as Sirius claimed
— she secretly approved of pranks. “While most of the Slytherin students who
fled Hogwarts last year have gone to Durmstrang, a few have returned to
Hogwarts. I wouldn’t like to see them scared away. I’ve impressed that on the
other students as well.” She didn’t approve, then.
was hard to tell if McGonagall was truly concerned, or if — as Sirius claimed
— she secretly approved of pranks. “While most of the Slytherin students who
fled Hogwarts last year have gone to Durmstrang, a few have returned to
Hogwarts. I wouldn’t like to see them scared away. I’ve impressed that on the
other students as well.” She didn’t approve, then.
Harry shook his head. “I’m not my father, Headmistress, nor my godfather. Nor
is Ron following the twins’ example.” Certainly not now. If there hadn’t been
a war, if Malfoy had been a git instead of a murderous Death Eater who had
been killed while fighting for Voldemort, then things might have been
different.
is Ron following the twins’ example.” Certainly not now. If there hadn’t been
a war, if Malfoy had been a git instead of a murderous Death Eater who had
been killed while fighting for Voldemort, then things might have been
different.
But there had been a war.
---
“What’s going on, Neville?” Harry asked an hour later, gesturing at the
noticeable space the rest of their house was giving them in the Gryffindor
common room. “I’d have expected them to mob me with requests to tell them all
about the battle in Jamaica.” They were Gryffindors, after all.
noticeable space the rest of their house was giving them in the Gryffindor
common room. “I’d have expected them to mob me with requests to tell them all
about the battle in Jamaica.” They were Gryffindors, after all.
“Ah, that.” Neville nodded. “Well…”
Harry caught him glancing around as he trailed off, and narrowed his eyes at
the other wizard. “What?”
the other wizard. “What?”
“Well… Ginny told everyone not to annoy you. She reminded them that a lot of
people died in that battle.”
people died in that battle.”
“Ah.” Harry rubbed his chin. “That didn’t stop them before.”
Neville coughed. “Well, you’ve defeated the Dark Lord, and you’ve defeated the
houngans. People call you ‘Dumbledore’s Heir’. Would you annoy Dumbledore?”
houngans. People call you ‘Dumbledore’s Heir’. Would you annoy Dumbledore?”
Harry didn’t think Dumbledore could have been annoyed by students. The
Headmaster probably would have liked it if the students had dared to ask him
questions, even annoying ones. “I see.” It made sense, though he wasn’t
certain if he liked it.
Headmaster probably would have liked it if the students had dared to ask him
questions, even annoying ones. “I see.” It made sense, though he wasn’t
certain if he liked it.
“They still would love to hear all about the battle, of course,” Neville said,
scowling. “And most of them won’t care that Seamus died in it.”
scowling. “And most of them won’t care that Seamus died in it.”
“Not many of them have fought,” Harry said. “They don’t know how it is.”
“I haven’t fought either,” Neville pointed out, snorting.
“You were almost killed in an ambush,” Harry retorted.
Neville grumbled something in response that Harry didn’t quite catch. He could
guess its meaning though.
guess its meaning though.
“You wouldn’t want to have been there, trust me,” he said. “It was a bloody
mess, with hordes of undead, and curses, and traps. We were surrounded, we
couldn’t apparate, couldn’t even fly away, and people were dropping left and
right…” Harry clenched his teeth and drew a hissing breath as he remembered
particularly gruesome moments. Shaking his head, he stood up. “I’ll get some
air.”
mess, with hordes of undead, and curses, and traps. We were surrounded, we
couldn’t apparate, couldn’t even fly away, and people were dropping left and
right…” Harry clenched his teeth and drew a hissing breath as he remembered
particularly gruesome moments. Shaking his head, he stood up. “I’ll get some
air.”
“Sorry.” Neville hunched his shoulders.
“Not your fault.” Harry nodded at him, and left the common room.
Outside the dorm, he found himself at an impasse. He could take his broom and
go flying a little, until dinner, but… that also would bring up memories.
Especially if the weather was windy. No one would look for him in the library,
but that would be hiding. And he wasn’t about to hide from students.
go flying a little, until dinner, but… that also would bring up memories.
Especially if the weather was windy. No one would look for him in the library,
but that would be hiding. And he wasn’t about to hide from students.
He heard the door behind him open, and he had turned around, his wand in his
hand, before he recognised who was stepping out of the dorm. Ginny.
hand, before he recognised who was stepping out of the dorm. Ginny.
“Hey.” The witch smiled at him, seemingly ignoring the fact that his wand —
not the Elder Wand — was not quite pointed at her.
not the Elder Wand — was not quite pointed at her.
“Hey.” Harry’s response wasn’t the smoothest, or most eloquent. “I heard you
told the others not to annoy me,” he added quickly.
told the others not to annoy me,” he added quickly.
She nodded. “I hope I wasn’t presumptuous, but… I spoke with Ron, and he
didn’t want to tell us anything either.”
didn’t want to tell us anything either.”
“Yeah.”
“His leg is doing better. He should be back at Hogwarts in one or two weeks,”
Ginny went on.
Ginny went on.
“Good.” He had known that already, but there was no need to mention it.
“So… where are you going?” She cocked her head slightly as she asked, looking
at him.
at him.
He almost told her to pay more attention to her surroundings. Instead, he
shrugged. “I don’t know… maybe the Black Lake.” He almost turned it into a
question.
shrugged. “I don’t know… maybe the Black Lake.” He almost turned it into a
question.
“Luna’s there. She’s feeding the giant squid.”
“Ah.” The image of Luna feeding the giant creature as if it was a duck made
him snort.
him snort.
Ginny frowned. “She’s been doing it for years.”
“I wasn’t making fun of her. Just the image of her at the shore, throwing bits
of… what exactly does the squid eat?” He didn’t think Hagrid had ever
mentioned that.
of… what exactly does the squid eat?” He didn’t think Hagrid had ever
mentioned that.
“Fish mostly. She enlarges them, or so she told me.” Ginny shrugged.
“Ah.” That made sense. “And where are you going?” Turnabout was fair play.
She hesitated for a moment, then raised her chin slightly. “I was looking for
you.” He raised his eyebrows at that. “You looked like you might want to talk.
I mean…” She pointed back at the door behind her. “My brothers were there, as
well. And both were hurt. I understand that you don’t want to talk about it.
But if you wanted…”
you.” He raised his eyebrows at that. “You looked like you might want to talk.
I mean…” She pointed back at the door behind her. “My brothers were there, as
well. And both were hurt. I understand that you don’t want to talk about it.
But if you wanted…”
She wasn’t making much sense, Harry thought. Unless… He briefly hesitated,
then reminded himself that he was a Gryffindor. “Ron told me that you fancy
me.”
then reminded himself that he was a Gryffindor. “Ron told me that you fancy
me.”
Ginny reddened as her eyes first widened, then narrowed. “He did, did he?” she
all but hissed.
all but hissed.
Before the war, Harry would have feared for Ron. But now? Who’d care about a
Bat-Bogey Hex, after what they had gone through? He smiled. “Well, is it
true?”
Bat-Bogey Hex, after what they had gone through? He smiled. “Well, is it
true?”
“Yes.” She almost glared at him, then pouted. “I wanted to tell you myself.
Once you were feeling better.”
Once you were feeling better.”
“Ah.” Harry nodded. “Well, you just did, kind of.”
She snorted. “I didn’t want to tell you while you were still pining for
Hermione.”
Hermione.”
Harry hadn’t pined for her. Not for that long, anyway. “I’m not.” He was over
her. Not that it mattered much, anyway. She was with Ron.
her. Not that it mattered much, anyway. She was with Ron.
“But I didn’t want to tell you while you’re feeling guilty about the war and
everything, either.”
everything, either.”
Just what had Ron told her?, Harry wondered. He frowned. “Everyone’s telling
me not to feel guilty.”
me not to feel guilty.”
“And is it helping?” Her tone told him that she didn’t think that was the
case.
case.
“A little.”
She sighed and leaned back against the wall. “I don’t want to be second best.
Or someone you only like because you need someone to hold you.”
Or someone you only like because you need someone to hold you.”
“I wouldn’t like that either,” Harry said. That would feel rather dishonest.
As if he was using a girl.
As if he was using a girl.
“Well, now you know. And where does that leave you, me, us?”
He couldn’t tell what she was thinking. Her expression was… guarded, but there
was something in her eyes… He started to shrug, but stopped, turning the
movement into an awkward gesture with his left hand. “I don’t know.” He had
known her since… He started to quickly calculate. Their first meeting at the
station didn’t really count. And he hadn’t spoken to her in his second year.
Third year… she had been ‘Ron’s sister’ for quite some time. “We didn’t talk
to each other that much before last year.” When she had helped him organising
the map watch, and the Gryffindors in general.
was something in her eyes… He started to shrug, but stopped, turning the
movement into an awkward gesture with his left hand. “I don’t know.” He had
known her since… He started to quickly calculate. Their first meeting at the
station didn’t really count. And he hadn’t spoken to her in his second year.
Third year… she had been ‘Ron’s sister’ for quite some time. “We didn’t talk
to each other that much before last year.” When she had helped him organising
the map watch, and the Gryffindors in general.
“Yes?” She was frowning again.
“So… I mean…” He didn’t exactly know what he wanted to say. Only that he
wanted to say something to her. “During the Resistance celebration, I flirted
with a witch. Or she was flirting with me. She was a few years older. But… she
just wanted the Boy-Who-Lived.” It was likely, at least — he hadn’t really
talked to Emily since that evening, and she hadn’t approached him either.
wanted to say something to her. “During the Resistance celebration, I flirted
with a witch. Or she was flirting with me. She was a few years older. But… she
just wanted the Boy-Who-Lived.” It was likely, at least — he hadn’t really
talked to Emily since that evening, and she hadn’t approached him either.
“Ah.” She was still frowning.
“So… I don’t want that. I want something serious.” Something like Ron and
Hermione had.
Hermione had.
“Me too. That’s why I didn’t want to tell you while you were… ‘emotionally
vulnerable’.” Ginny sighed and looked rather miserable.
vulnerable’.” Ginny sighed and looked rather miserable.
“Well, Ron and Hermione made it work, and they were in the middle of the war,”
Harry said. “At least now the war’s over.” He wasn’t going to say it out loud
in case he was rejected.
Harry said. “At least now the war’s over.” He wasn’t going to say it out loud
in case he was rejected.
Ginny nodded slowly, so it looked like she understood what he meant. Taking a
deep breath, she looked him straight in the eyes. “So, want to take a walk
around the Black Lake?”
deep breath, she looked him straight in the eyes. “So, want to take a walk
around the Black Lake?”
He nodded. “Sounds good.” It was better to give this a try, instead of waiting
until it was too late.
until it was too late.
“I’m still going to hex Ron,” she muttered as she took his hand.
He shrugged. Ron had taken worse. And he had spilled her secret, after all.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, May 5th, 1997**
“This is an outrage! You invade my country, and then have the gall to blame us
for it? Do you truly wish to go to war again? Have you forgotten that every
war between our two countries has ended with your defeat?”
for it? Do you truly wish to go to war again? Have you forgotten that every
war between our two countries has ended with your defeat?”
Larmar Grant, the envoy from Jamaica, had his act down pat, Sirius Black
thought. All the righteous wrath an innocent victim of foreign aggression
might feel, coupled with not so veiled threats of dire retribution formed an
impressive display. It was all blustering, of course — the houngans would
never send an envoy if they could actually make good on their threats.
thought. All the righteous wrath an innocent victim of foreign aggression
might feel, coupled with not so veiled threats of dire retribution formed an
impressive display. It was all blustering, of course — the houngans would
never send an envoy if they could actually make good on their threats.
Sirius leaned back in his seat in the conference room of the Ministry and
folded his hands behind his head. Bones, sitting next to him, was probably
wishing she could scold him for such a breach of decorum, but he couldn’t care
less. Harry, on his other side, coughed, but Sirius ignored that as well. And
Hermione was too far away.
folded his hands behind his head. Bones, sitting next to him, was probably
wishing she could scold him for such a breach of decorum, but he couldn’t care
less. Harry, on his other side, coughed, but Sirius ignored that as well. And
Hermione was too far away.
“Have you forgotten how the last three ‘visits’ of British wizards to your
island went?” Sirius asked. ‘Let me refresh your memory. Dumbledore killed
half a dozen of your worst leaders without trying. Rookwood, a wanted criminal
who fled our country, killed several of your leaders, ransacked their homes,
and was about to break into your most holy library when we arrived to stop him
— something you were obviously unable to do. And when you ambushed us we broke
out of your trap, killing half your best in the process, before returning to
Britain.’ He grinned at the houngan. “Jamaica’s record in this century isn’t
exactly impressive,” he added with a sneer.
island went?” Sirius asked. ‘Let me refresh your memory. Dumbledore killed
half a dozen of your worst leaders without trying. Rookwood, a wanted criminal
who fled our country, killed several of your leaders, ransacked their homes,
and was about to break into your most holy library when we arrived to stop him
— something you were obviously unable to do. And when you ambushed us we broke
out of your trap, killing half your best in the process, before returning to
Britain.’ He grinned at the houngan. “Jamaica’s record in this century isn’t
exactly impressive,” he added with a sneer.
“Dumbledore died to our traps! And we were about to capture Rookwood
ourselves, when you interfered. And you lost half your number fighting our
apprentices.”
ourselves, when you interfered. And you lost half your number fighting our
apprentices.”
Hermione scoffed. “Dumbledore died to a curse Voldemort had cast on your
library when he stole a skull from it. You didn’t even notice the theft.” At
least that was what Rookwood claimed. Sirius didn’t care much if it was true
or not — it made a good argument in these negotiations. The witch went on:
“And Voldemort was killed by Harry Potter in single combat.”
library when he stole a skull from it. You didn’t even notice the theft.” At
least that was what Rookwood claimed. Sirius didn’t care much if it was true
or not — it made a good argument in these negotiations. The witch went on:
“And Voldemort was killed by Harry Potter in single combat.”
He saw Harry nod on cue, and took over again. “You started this when you
attacked Hogwarts and murdered a dozen people to find the stolen skull — which
you failed to do.”
attacked Hogwarts and murdered a dozen people to find the stolen skull — which
you failed to do.”
“You attacked our delegate! He had to flee for his life!”
Bones scoffed. “We investigated the case. Reid was a murderer and a dark
wizard, plain and simple.” The witch probably still felt as if she was an
Auror, Sirius thought. Which was her main problem.
wizard, plain and simple.” The witch probably still felt as if she was an
Auror, Sirius thought. Which was her main problem.
He shrugged. “You can save your lies and boasts. No one believes them — least
of all your neighbours.” Did the houngan just flinch a little? Sirius couldn’t
tell for certain. He leaned forward again. “So, let’s talk about the real
reason you’re here. You want your skull back before our Unspeakables crack its
secrets.”
of all your neighbours.” Did the houngan just flinch a little? Sirius couldn’t
tell for certain. He leaned forward again. “So, let’s talk about the real
reason you’re here. You want your skull back before our Unspeakables crack its
secrets.”
“That skull is a crucial part of my country’s heritage. To steal it, and
tamper with it, is intolerable. My nation is not the only one appalled by such
a crime.”
tamper with it, is intolerable. My nation is not the only one appalled by such
a crime.”
He wasn’t entirely wrong, Sirius had to admit — even though those countries
only cared about the possible threat to their own secrets such a precedent
might set. “We recovered it from the thief — and foiled another attempt to
steal from you.”
only cared about the possible threat to their own secrets such a precedent
might set. “We recovered it from the thief — and foiled another attempt to
steal from you.”
“If you admit that it was stolen then give it back to us!” Grant had risen
from his seat and was now yelling at them.
from his seat and was now yelling at them.
“We’re willing to,” Sirius said with a smile. ‘We’d love to hand the skull
back, actually. But it contains knowledge crucial for our efforts to break the
Withering Curse.’ He saw the houngan open his mouth and quickly cut him off
before he could shout even louder. “But we’re willing to part with it — if you
help us break said curse.”
back, actually. But it contains knowledge crucial for our efforts to break the
Withering Curse.’ He saw the houngan open his mouth and quickly cut him off
before he could shout even louder. “But we’re willing to part with it — if you
help us break said curse.”
“You expect us to help you, in exchange for the safe return of stolen good?
That’s… that’s… that’s extortion!”
That’s… that’s… that’s extortion!”
Sirius shrugged. “So?” He scoffed. ‘You lost most of your best wizards and
witches, and a significant number of your brightest apprentices facing a few
of our wizards and witches. You managed to kill a few of our recruits in
return — and they are easily replaced.’ He saw Hermione stiffen at that, but
it had to be said. This was diplomacy, after all. “You can’t afford a war. You
can’t even afford to try anything and risk having your weakness exposed, not
with half the Caribbean waiting to settle a few old disputes with you. So stop
the posturing. You’re not fooling anyone.”
witches, and a significant number of your brightest apprentices facing a few
of our wizards and witches. You managed to kill a few of our recruits in
return — and they are easily replaced.’ He saw Hermione stiffen at that, but
it had to be said. This was diplomacy, after all. “You can’t afford a war. You
can’t even afford to try anything and risk having your weakness exposed, not
with half the Caribbean waiting to settle a few old disputes with you. So stop
the posturing. You’re not fooling anyone.”
The envoy pressed his lips together, and Sirius was certain that the man
wanted nothing more than to curse everyone in the room.
wanted nothing more than to curse everyone in the room.
His grin widened. They had the bastards by the balls, and the houngans knew
it. They could either play nice, and get their skull back — after the
Withering Curse was cured — or they could try to keep this charade up, which
would lead to Britain revealing just how weak Jamaica had become — and letting
slip that the British forces wouldn’t interfere any more. The houngans’
neighbours would jump at such a chance to even the score.
it. They could either play nice, and get their skull back — after the
Withering Curse was cured — or they could try to keep this charade up, which
would lead to Britain revealing just how weak Jamaica had become — and letting
slip that the British forces wouldn’t interfere any more. The houngans’
neighbours would jump at such a chance to even the score.
Sirius didn’t care either way. And Grant probably knew that as well.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, May 12th, 1997**
“You’re making a dire mistake! You’re sacrificing your cursed friends and
family!”
family!”
Amelia Bones shook her head as she watched Rookwood struggle with his guards
in front of the Veil. The Death Eater had to know how futile his efforts were
— she had personally informed him that the houngans had agreed to help finding
a cure for the Withering Curse. And at his trial, an hour ago, he had been
told again — though that had been aimed as much at the Wizengamot, who might
have balked at sentencing the scum to death without such reassurances, as at
him.
in front of the Veil. The Death Eater had to know how futile his efforts were
— she had personally informed him that the houngans had agreed to help finding
a cure for the Withering Curse. And at his trial, an hour ago, he had been
told again — though that had been aimed as much at the Wizengamot, who might
have balked at sentencing the scum to death without such reassurances, as at
him.
“I’m the only one who can save them!” Rookwood was screaming now.
“Can’t you silence him?” Black asked next to her.
“Any condemned wizard has the right to have his last words be heard and
recorded,” she answered, without taking her eyes off the dark wizard.
recorded,” she answered, without taking her eyes off the dark wizard.
“That must make for some weird transcripts. How do you write down incoherent
screams?”
screams?”
She rolled her eyes and gritted her teeth. This was an execution, not a play!
“Have some respect!” she hissed.
“Have some respect!” she hissed.
“Why? He’s not showing any respect either. Not that he deserves any. The
things he admitted…” Black made no attempt to hide his revulsion.
things he admitted…” Black made no attempt to hide his revulsion.
In the meantime the two Aurors had manhandled Rookwood in front of the Veil.
For a man with his hands bound behind his back, the Death Eater out up an
impressive struggle, literally kicking and screaming. It didn’t help him,
though — one of the Aurors cast an Impediment Hex.
For a man with his hands bound behind his back, the Death Eater out up an
impressive struggle, literally kicking and screaming. It didn’t help him,
though — one of the Aurors cast an Impediment Hex.
“I curse you! I curse you all! The Dark Lord will return, and you will pay for
this! Your agony will be endless! Your souls will fuel his rituals! Your
children will…”
this! Your agony will be endless! Your souls will fuel his rituals! Your
children will…”
Amelia made a gesture with her hand and Rookwood’s threats were cut off when
he was thrown through the Veil.
he was thrown through the Veil.
“Good riddance!” Black commented. “He really thought you would make a deal
with him.”
with him.”
“He was wrong.” Amelia didn’t make deals with criminals.
“Was he?” Black looked at her. “If a deal with him had been the only way to
save the curse victims, would you have thrown him through the Veil anyway?”
save the curse victims, would you have thrown him through the Veil anyway?”
“It wasn’t the only way to save them, so that is entirely hypothetical.”
“And the Wizengamot would have never sentenced him to death in that case
anyway.” Black chuckled. “Well, the current Wizengamot. But after the
elections… Who knows?”
anyway.” Black chuckled. “Well, the current Wizengamot. But after the
elections… Who knows?”
She didn’t dignify that with a response and left the Execution Chamber without
a further word. It was rude, but she didn’t care any more. Amelia already knew
that she wouldn’t stay in office once the Wizengamot was replaced. She didn’t
want to, either. Not when many of the seats would be held by criminals who
should be on trial, not in the Wizengamot.
a further word. It was rude, but she didn’t care any more. Amelia already knew
that she wouldn’t stay in office once the Wizengamot was replaced. She didn’t
want to, either. Not when many of the seats would be held by criminals who
should be on trial, not in the Wizengamot.
At least once she was replaced, she’d have more time for Susan.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, May 20th, 1997**
“You shouldn’t vote for the Reform Party because we fought and won the war
against those who wanted to murder us all. You should vote for us because we
will make Wizarding Britain a better place — for us, and for our children. Not
just a place where we can life in safety, but a country we can be proud of! A
country where blood doesn’t matter!”
against those who wanted to murder us all. You should vote for us because we
will make Wizarding Britain a better place — for us, and for our children. Not
just a place where we can life in safety, but a country we can be proud of! A
country where blood doesn’t matter!”
Hermione smiled as the crowd took up her her last words, yelling them
repeatedly while she stepped down from the stage. The election campaign was
going well, in her opinion — and she was more certain than ever that her
refusal to call their party ‘the Resistance Party’ had been correct. That
would have tied them to the past, instead of to the future. And Churchill had
shown how little winning a war against a genocidal monster could matter in
British politics. Hermione had no intention of following his example.
repeatedly while she stepped down from the stage. The election campaign was
going well, in her opinion — and she was more certain than ever that her
refusal to call their party ‘the Resistance Party’ had been correct. That
would have tied them to the past, instead of to the future. And Churchill had
shown how little winning a war against a genocidal monster could matter in
British politics. Hermione had no intention of following his example.
Of course, she thought as she passed Fairfax and Pam, who were standing guard
at the rally, there was nothing wrong with reminding people just who had won
the war for them, as long that wasn’t all she did and said. There were other
parties out there, after all. They might not be as organised and famous as her
own, but the war had taught her that she couldn’t afford to underestimate any
opponent. The yells started to die down, now, with Justin taking the stage.
His upper-class accent and origin was generally popular with many muggleborns
— even with some of those who were enthusiastically yelling ‘Blood doesn’t
matter!’. Hermione shook her head at the irony.
at the rally, there was nothing wrong with reminding people just who had won
the war for them, as long that wasn’t all she did and said. There were other
parties out there, after all. They might not be as organised and famous as her
own, but the war had taught her that she couldn’t afford to underestimate any
opponent. The yells started to die down, now, with Justin taking the stage.
His upper-class accent and origin was generally popular with many muggleborns
— even with some of those who were enthusiastically yelling ‘Blood doesn’t
matter!’. Hermione shook her head at the irony.
“A word, Miss Granger!”
She turned around, her wand in hand. Two young people were approaching her. A
couple, probably, wearing badges with the logo of the Muggleborn Popular
Party. Which wasn’t that popular, last she had heard. Fairfax had noticed them
as well, and was moving a bit to the side, just in case, she noted.
couple, probably, wearing badges with the logo of the Muggleborn Popular
Party. Which wasn’t that popular, last she had heard. Fairfax had noticed them
as well, and was moving a bit to the side, just in case, she noted.
“Yes?”
“I’m Liz, Liz Vance. He’s Marc Upton,” the woman said. She seemed to ignore
Fairfax. “We were friends of Mary-Jane Milton.”
Fairfax. “We were friends of Mary-Jane Milton.”
Ah. Hermione’s smile slipped. “My condolences.”
Upton nodded slowly, but Vance frowned. “That’s a bit hypocritical, seeing as
she died following your orders.”
she died following your orders.”
Hermione narrowed her eyes. “She died fighting for what she believed in — a
free, safe country for everyone.”
free, safe country for everyone.”
“And how did invading Jamaica serve that goal?” Vance sniffed.
One of those, Hermione thought. She kept her cool, though — she had had lots
of opportunities to practise doing so during the election campaign so far. “We
went there to catch one of the last Death Eaters and to find a cure for the
Withering Curse. A curse which, incidentally, had struck down a friend of
hers.” That was stretching the truth — technically, the two had both been
members of the Resistance, although Mary-Jane hadn’t been freed from the
Imperius Curse before Dennis had been put under the Draught of Living Death,
though Hermione didn’t doubt that Mary-Jane would have liked him. However,
Hermione wasn’t about to let some idiot who hadn’t even fought in the war
berate her.
of opportunities to practise doing so during the election campaign so far. “We
went there to catch one of the last Death Eaters and to find a cure for the
Withering Curse. A curse which, incidentally, had struck down a friend of
hers.” That was stretching the truth — technically, the two had both been
members of the Resistance, although Mary-Jane hadn’t been freed from the
Imperius Curse before Dennis had been put under the Draught of Living Death,
though Hermione didn’t doubt that Mary-Jane would have liked him. However,
Hermione wasn’t about to let some idiot who hadn’t even fought in the war
berate her.
But the witch wasn’t letting it go. “Those goals could have been achieved
without so much bloodshed. You negotiated with Jamaica afterwards. Why didn’t
you start negotiating right away?”
without so much bloodshed. You negotiated with Jamaica afterwards. Why didn’t
you start negotiating right away?”
‘Because they were a bunch of murderous dark wizards who enslaved muggles to
serve as cannon fodder and only understood force’ wouldn’t probably go over
well, Hermione thought. “They had attacked us, murdered several muggles and
rebuffed all attempts at handling the matter diplomatically through the
International Confederation of Wizards.”
serve as cannon fodder and only understood force’ wouldn’t probably go over
well, Hermione thought. “They had attacked us, murdered several muggles and
rebuffed all attempts at handling the matter diplomatically through the
International Confederation of Wizards.”
“So, you really think that you needed to attack them? To curse them to
negotiation table?”
negotiation table?”
Hermione shrugged. “I cannot say for certain if it was absolutely necessary —
we went there to arrest Rookwood — but it is a fact that the houngans didn’t
start to negotiate until we had demonstrated that violence wouldn’t help
them.”
we went there to arrest Rookwood — but it is a fact that the houngans didn’t
start to negotiate until we had demonstrated that violence wouldn’t help
them.”
“That’s a justification after the fact.”
“No. It is a possible explanation. We couldn’t know for certain when we made
the decisions that ultimately led to the battle in Jamaica.”
the decisions that ultimately led to the battle in Jamaica.”
“And cost Mary-Jane’s life.”
Hermione had to struggle to simply nod, instead of glaring at the witch.
“And do you plan to resort to violence on the next occasion as well?” Vance
folded her arms under her chest and sniffed.
folded her arms under her chest and sniffed.
“Only as a last resort. But as the recent war has proven: Sometimes violence
is the only way to deal with evil people. I, for one, will never risk an
innocent life just to avoid a fight. Mary-Jane agreed with me — she fought in
the war as well.” Hermione nodded at them. “Now please excuse me — I have
other obligations.”
is the only way to deal with evil people. I, for one, will never risk an
innocent life just to avoid a fight. Mary-Jane agreed with me — she fought in
the war as well.” Hermione nodded at them. “Now please excuse me — I have
other obligations.”
She left them standing there before she lost her temper.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, May 24th, 1997**
Diagon Alley had changed, Daphne Greengrass noticed after leaving the Leaky
Cauldron with Tracey. It seemed that every wall was covered with posters, and
at some spots you couldn’t see the ground beneath all the leaflets. And all
because of the elections.
Cauldron with Tracey. It seemed that every wall was covered with posters, and
at some spots you couldn’t see the ground beneath all the leaflets. And all
because of the elections.
“Can’t they vanish the rubbish?” She shook her head at the sight. “Someone
will slip on all that paper.”
will slip on all that paper.”
“I read in the Prophet that when some wizards started doing that, others
accused them of trying to silence their competition,” Tracey answered. “Almost
started a riot, or so I heard.”
accused them of trying to silence their competition,” Tracey answered. “Almost
started a riot, or so I heard.”
Daphne could believe that — the muggleborns were going crazy about these
elections. Not just muggleborns, though — the half-bloods and even purebloods
were caught up in this madness as well. She sighed. “What a stupid notion,
changing the Wizengamot every few years. No one will get any experience that
way. And they’ll all cater to those who yell the loudest, without any care for
the future past the next election!”
elections. Not just muggleborns, though — the half-bloods and even purebloods
were caught up in this madness as well. She sighed. “What a stupid notion,
changing the Wizengamot every few years. No one will get any experience that
way. And they’ll all cater to those who yell the loudest, without any care for
the future past the next election!”
“Where did you get that from?” Tracey asked.
Daphne didn’t admit that she had read a muggle article about elections. She
shrugged. “Isn’t it obvious? People will never be content, and they’ll blame
the Ministry and the Wizengamot. Of those two, they can replace the
Wizengamot, so that’s what they’ll do.”
shrugged. “Isn’t it obvious? People will never be content, and they’ll blame
the Ministry and the Wizengamot. Of those two, they can replace the
Wizengamot, so that’s what they’ll do.”
“And just like the members of the current Wizengamot mostly care about
themselves, they new ones will do the same, and cater to their voters?” Tracey
didn’t hide her amusement, and Daphne’s glare had no effect.
themselves, they new ones will do the same, and cater to their voters?” Tracey
didn’t hide her amusement, and Daphne’s glare had no effect.
“At least hereditary positions grant stability. People know who will succeed a
member,” she shot back.
member,” she shot back.
“But the only way to replace a Wizengamot member who’s unfit is to kill them.”
Daphne glared at her friend, who had the grace to look sorry, and they walked
in silence for the next few minutes.
in silence for the next few minutes.
“They’ve finished rebuilding,” Tracey said when they were passing the Weasley
twins’ shop.
twins’ shop.
“Yes.” Daphne could see that herself. She stopped and looked up at the
spinning, glowing sign above the entrance.
spinning, glowing sign above the entrance.
“It’s bigger than last time. I think,” Tracey added.
“Could be.” Daphne wasn’t certain.
“Let’s go in!”
“What?” Daphne stared at her friend.
“Let’s go say hello.” Tracey grinned. “It’ll probably unnerve them as much as
you.”
you.”
Daphne pressed her lips together but she walked towards the entrance. She knew
that tone — Tracey would do it alone if Daphne didn’t join her. And she
wouldn’t leave her friend alone.
that tone — Tracey would do it alone if Daphne didn’t join her. And she
wouldn’t leave her friend alone.
Daphne opened the door, and was hit in the face by a dozen fishes.
She shrieked before glaring at her giggling friend as she rubbed her face
until the slimy feeling was gone.
until the slimy feeling was gone.
“How do you like our ‘Fish Breeze’? The fishes aren’t real, of course, nor
conjured,” Daphne heard a familiar voice from the back of the shop.
Apparently, her shriek had been heard that far back.
conjured,” Daphne heard a familiar voice from the back of the shop.
Apparently, her shriek had been heard that far back.
“It’s pure spellwork and the slime evapora…” The way his voice trailed off
upon seeing them, this had to be Fred, Daphne thought.
upon seeing them, this had to be Fred, Daphne thought.
So did Tracey. “Good afternoon, Fred.”
“What are you doing here?”
The former Gryffindor’s wand was aimed at them and Daphne did her best to
ignore it. “Is George here?”
ignore it. “Is George here?”
“What do you want with him?”
Daphne could hear Tracey roll her eyes as her friend answered: “What do you
think? We want to ravish him and trap him in a loveless marriage.”
think? We want to ravish him and trap him in a loveless marriage.”
Her sarcastic tone reassured Daphne. The flirting with the werewolf had been
bad enough. If Tracey started to flirt with the twins…
bad enough. If Tracey started to flirt with the twins…
She heard George’s voice from somewhere back. “Fred? Are you scaring away
paying customers again?” Daphne heard him call out from the backroom.
paying customers again?” Daphne heard him call out from the backroom.
“They aren’t paying customers. They’re snakes.”
“Snakes?” George appeared next to a large shelf blocking the view to the left
side of the shop. “Ah. Good afternoon, Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis.”
side of the shop. “Ah. Good afternoon, Miss Greengrass, Miss Davis.”
“Good afternoon, Mister Weasley.” Daphne wouldn’t be rude, no matter what.
“Hello.” Tracey waved, and for a moment, Daphne feared the twins would mistake
it as an attack. A hundred and fifty years ago there had been an assassination
attempt on a Greengrass with a disillusioned wand, Daphne recalled.
it as an attack. A hundred and fifty years ago there had been an assassination
attempt on a Greengrass with a disillusioned wand, Daphne recalled.
Neither Fred nor George overreacted though. George even smiled — though Daphne
doubted that it was sincere. “Are you here to buy something?”
doubted that it was sincere. “Are you here to buy something?”
“We were walking past outside and decided to come in and say hello,” Tracey
explained with a grin.
explained with a grin.
“Really?” George sounded… sceptical, Daphne decided.
“Really.” Tracey shrugged. “After all, thanks to Black’s scheming, everyone
thinks we’re best friends.”
thinks we’re best friends.”
“And you want to keep up that facade, so others will not bother you, lest they
suffer our vengeance.” George nodded while Fed scowled.
suffer our vengeance.” George nodded while Fed scowled.
That was an excellent justification, Daphne thought. “Yes.”
“We aren’t best friends though,” Fred said.
“Of course not. Your friends killed our families,” Daphne retorted, fighting
the anger that rose inside her at the thought of her dead, murdered parents.
She couldn’t lose her temper. She had to set an example for her sister.
Astoria had barely accepted that things would never be as they were, and if
she heard about Daphne cursing a blood traitor, or, worse, being cursed…
the anger that rose inside her at the thought of her dead, murdered parents.
She couldn’t lose her temper. She had to set an example for her sister.
Astoria had barely accepted that things would never be as they were, and if
she heard about Daphne cursing a blood traitor, or, worse, being cursed…
“And you tried to murder my family,” Fred spat.
“You don’t disobey the Dark Lord’s orders.” Daphne glared at him. It wasn’t as
if they had had any choice.
if they had had any choice.
“You don’t join the Dark Lord’s forces,” the wizard shot back.
“You also don’t sabotage Quidditch stands and try to kill students,” Tracey
cut in. ‘But the war’s over and we’re all still alive. I’d like to stay that
way. Alive that is.’ She nodded at Daphne. “She’s right. Too much happened to
make up. I can’t look at Granger without remembering my dead parents, and
she’s about to marry into your family.”
cut in. ‘But the war’s over and we’re all still alive. I’d like to stay that
way. Alive that is.’ She nodded at Daphne. “She’s right. Too much happened to
make up. I can’t look at Granger without remembering my dead parents, and
she’s about to marry into your family.”
“Oh, that’s not going to happen that soon,” George said with a chuckle, though
it felt a bit forced to Daphne. “Hermione’s not the kind of witch to marry
early and have sprogs so quickly.”
it felt a bit forced to Daphne. “Hermione’s not the kind of witch to marry
early and have sprogs so quickly.”
“Whatever.” Daphne snorted. “We just came in here to say hello. Nothing more.”
“Well, you said hello.” Fred scowled at her.
“That we did,” Tracey admitted. “So… bye?”
“Bye.”
Once they had left the shop, Daphne sighed. “That could have gone wrong.”
“It didn’t,” Tracey retorted.
They made their way past a stand with muggleborns. None of them offered the
two witches any leaflets, though — nor anyone else in robes, as far as she
could see. Apparently, the Muggleborn Popular Party didn’t care for pureblood
votes, Daphne thought.
two witches any leaflets, though — nor anyone else in robes, as far as she
could see. Apparently, the Muggleborn Popular Party didn’t care for pureblood
votes, Daphne thought.
Once they were further away, Daphne turned to Tracey. “You know, once the
elections are over, I think I’ll head to the continent for a while.”
elections are over, I think I’ll head to the continent for a while.”
“A Grand Tour?” Tracey asked. “Those haven’t been done since…”
“Since the last war.”
Time to revive the custom, Daphne thought. It wasn’t just a pureblood
tradition. It would also keep her away from Britain for a year or two.
tradition. It would also keep her away from Britain for a year or two.
She really didn’t want to see how the mudbloods would ruin her country.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, June 15th, 1997**
“… and that’s why you should vote for the Progressive Party! We don’t
discriminate against anyone — we stand for equal rights for everyone!”
discriminate against anyone — we stand for equal rights for everyone!”
Sirius Black smiled as widely as he could while he put both hands on his hips
and stared at the crowd gathered in front of his stage in Diagon Alley.
and stared at the crowd gathered in front of his stage in Diagon Alley.
“I know from personal experience how dangerous a corrupt or inept judicial
system is.” And everyone knew what travesty of justice he had suffered. “You
can count on me making damn certain that what I suffered will not happen to
anyone else. No longer will a bunch of rich Old Families judge everyone!”
system is.” And everyone knew what travesty of justice he had suffered. “You
can count on me making damn certain that what I suffered will not happen to
anyone else. No longer will a bunch of rich Old Families judge everyone!”
“You’re from a rich Old Family!” someone from the back yelled.
Sirius scoffed. “I spent my gold in the war against Voldemort.” He noticed how
the crowd cringed at his mention of the Dark Lord’s name, and had to fight not
to sneer at them. “I personally fought Voldemort at the spot we are standing.
What did you do? Hm?”
the crowd cringed at his mention of the Dark Lord’s name, and had to fight not
to sneer at them. “I personally fought Voldemort at the spot we are standing.
What did you do? Hm?”
“You’re in bed with the French purebloods!” Another heckler shouted. Someone
had prepared them for his speech.
had prepared them for his speech.
But not enough. Sirius grinned shamelessly. “Every night, I’m in bed with the
most beautiful French Veela, yes.” That earned him laughter while he threw a
kiss to Vivienne. “And she, as well as her family, came to help us during the
war, and many of them gave their lives for us.” There was no need to get into
the rather complicated current situation with the French, Sirius thought.
According to the Delacours, the Duc was scared of a muggleborn rebellion, and
they had barely managed to keep him from starting one with his latest
ham-fisted attempt to prevent it.
most beautiful French Veela, yes.” That earned him laughter while he threw a
kiss to Vivienne. “And she, as well as her family, came to help us during the
war, and many of them gave their lives for us.” There was no need to get into
the rather complicated current situation with the French, Sirius thought.
According to the Delacours, the Duc was scared of a muggleborn rebellion, and
they had barely managed to keep him from starting one with his latest
ham-fisted attempt to prevent it.
“The Progressive Party is not a pureblood party — you know that any party
that’ll have me will not turn anyone away!” He flashed his best roguish grin,
and was rewarded with another bout of laughter. ‘More seriously though,’ — his
pun didn’t get such a reaction, alas — “we’re a diverse lot, and our
membership reflects this. Although many of our members do have red hair,” he
added with a gesture at Arthur and Percy, who were waiting at the side. “But
our diversity is our strength — we all know what blood purity did to our
country. And you know what we did to save our country. And you know that we
will do it all over again, if it’s needed!”
that’ll have me will not turn anyone away!” He flashed his best roguish grin,
and was rewarded with another bout of laughter. ‘More seriously though,’ — his
pun didn’t get such a reaction, alas — “we’re a diverse lot, and our
membership reflects this. Although many of our members do have red hair,” he
added with a gesture at Arthur and Percy, who were waiting at the side. “But
our diversity is our strength — we all know what blood purity did to our
country. And you know what we did to save our country. And you know that we
will do it all over again, if it’s needed!”
As the crowd cheered, Sirius waved and stepped off the stage, making way for
Arthur. He was smiling widely — between his party and Hermione’s Reform Party,
they had this election locked down.
Arthur. He was smiling widely — between his party and Hermione’s Reform Party,
they had this election locked down.
---
**London, Ministry of Magic, July 7th, 1997**
“I, Harry Potter, do swear that I will uphold the law and protect the
inalienable rights of the people of Wizarding Britain.”
inalienable rights of the people of Wizarding Britain.”
Harry lowered his wand and stepped forward to hand the cue card back to Percy,
who was manning the despatch box, then returned to his seat. Since he was the
youngest member of the Wizengamot — Neville had been born a few hours earlier
than he — he was the last to take the oath.
who was manning the despatch box, then returned to his seat. Since he was the
youngest member of the Wizengamot — Neville had been born a few hours earlier
than he — he was the last to take the oath.
“Where did we get a despatch box from anyway?” he asked under his breath while
sitting down.
sitting down.
“Apparently, the Department of Mysteries had one in storage,” Hermione
answered.
answered.
“Compared to finding a wording for the oath that suited everyone, that was a
breeze,” Ron chimed in.
breeze,” Ron chimed in.
Hermione frowned. “It’s still missing a number of crucially important parts.”
“We went over this,” Ron retorted. “It’ll work well enough. It’s not as if
it’s an Unbreakable Vow anyway.”
it’s an Unbreakable Vow anyway.”
Hermione huffed. “Some of the members should have made such a vow.” Harry
didn’t have to check to know that she was looking at the members of the
Pureblood Party.
didn’t have to check to know that she was looking at the members of the
Pureblood Party.
“Bloody Death Eaters,” Ron mumbled.
Harry disagreed — they had been checked for Dark Marks, after all — but their
stated goal of ‘protecting the traditions of Wizarding Britain’ was a
thinly-veiled blood purity agenda. “It’s just four people.” Even with a
sizeable number of purebloods who had been hiding among muggles returning to
Wizarding Britain instead of emigrating, there simply weren’t that many idiots
around willing to vote for blood purists.
stated goal of ‘protecting the traditions of Wizarding Britain’ was a
thinly-veiled blood purity agenda. “It’s just four people.” Even with a
sizeable number of purebloods who had been hiding among muggles returning to
Wizarding Britain instead of emigrating, there simply weren’t that many idiots
around willing to vote for blood purists.
“Four too many,” Hermione said. “It’s almost an argument for a
first-past-the-post system. That would have prevented the two Muggleborn
Popular Party seats as well.”
first-past-the-post system. That would have prevented the two Muggleborn
Popular Party seats as well.”
“That’s democracy.” Harry ignored her frown. Between Sirius’s Progressive
Party and Hermione’s Reform Party, they had a solid majority anyway. And Bones
had resigned as soon as the results of the elections had come in; to the
surprise of Sirius, who had expected her to stay in office until she was
forced out.
Party and Hermione’s Reform Party, they had a solid majority anyway. And Bones
had resigned as soon as the results of the elections had come in; to the
surprise of Sirius, who had expected her to stay in office until she was
forced out.
Elphias Doge, the oldest member of the Wizengamot and so by default the Chief
Warlock until either confirmed by the Wizengamot or replaced by someone else,
stood up and raised his wand. “The first session of the Wizengamot of 1997 is
now open,” he announced. “The Chair recognises Mister Black.”
Warlock until either confirmed by the Wizengamot or replaced by someone else,
stood up and raised his wand. “The first session of the Wizengamot of 1997 is
now open,” he announced. “The Chair recognises Mister Black.”
Sirius stood up with a wide grin on his face. “Honoured members, honoured new
members of the Wizengamot, we stand here as the first democratically elected
representatives of Wizarding Britain. A new era has begun. For the first time
the fate of our country is not in the hands of a few families, but in the
hands of its people. Muggleborns, half-bloods, and purebIoods — all are
represented here.”
members of the Wizengamot, we stand here as the first democratically elected
representatives of Wizarding Britain. A new era has begun. For the first time
the fate of our country is not in the hands of a few families, but in the
hands of its people. Muggleborns, half-bloods, and purebIoods — all are
represented here.”
His next words were drowned out by the loud applause and cheers from the vast
majority of the members. Harry was cheering and clapping as well, together
with his friends.
majority of the members. Harry was cheering and clapping as well, together
with his friends.
They had done it. They had reformed the Wizengamot.
Now they had to reform the country.
Epilogue
========
**Epilogue**
’*I’ve been asked many times, especially by historians, why I have not yet
written this book. Many even seemed to expect me to write the definitive
history of the Second Blood War a week after it had officially been declared
over.*
written this book. Many even seemed to expect me to write the definitive
history of the Second Blood War a week after it had officially been declared
over.*
*Such expectations were based on several incorrect assumptions. First, the
fact that I was directly involved in the war in a central role does not
automatically make me an expert on that topic. On the contrary, it makes me a
biased observer. In order to be able to at least attempt to objectively
chronicle the events of that pivotal time of Wizarding Britain’s history, I
needed to hear other perspectives and to research the matter myself.*
fact that I was directly involved in the war in a central role does not
automatically make me an expert on that topic. On the contrary, it makes me a
biased observer. In order to be able to at least attempt to objectively
chronicle the events of that pivotal time of Wizarding Britain’s history, I
needed to hear other perspectives and to research the matter myself.*
*Second, I lost several close personal friends in the war. Back then, I lacked
the emotional distance needed for this work — something, I must point out,
that several of my colleagues lacked as well, but which did not keep them from
writing their books anyway.*
the emotional distance needed for this work — something, I must point out,
that several of my colleagues lacked as well, but which did not keep them from
writing their books anyway.*
*Third, I lacked the time to do such a book justice. My work in the
Wizengamot, and later in the Ministry and in research, took up far too much of
my time to allow a project of this nature.*
Wizengamot, and later in the Ministry and in research, took up far too much of
my time to allow a project of this nature.*
*And fourth, as this book will reveal, much of what happened during the war
has been deliberately kept secret until now, since revealing what had really
happened shortly after the war would have potentially had far-reaching
consequences. Now, though, decades later, this book’s time has finally come,
and I hope my work will help to correct several of the glaring mistakes made
and perpetuated by some historians in the years since the war.’*
has been deliberately kept secret until now, since revealing what had really
happened shortly after the war would have potentially had far-reaching
consequences. Now, though, decades later, this book’s time has finally come,
and I hope my work will help to correct several of the glaring mistakes made
and perpetuated by some historians in the years since the war.’*
*— Excerpt from ‘The Second Blood War: A History’ by Hermione Granger-Weasley*
---
**London, Greenwich, February 1st, 2002**
“Ron! It’s time! We need to go now!”
Hermione Granger-Weasley didn’t tap her foot impatiently, but she really
wanted to. They had to leave their house now if they wanted to be on time for
the ceremony — and early enough to give the location a brief once-over, to
ensure that it was safe.
wanted to. They had to leave their house now if they wanted to be on time for
the ceremony — and early enough to give the location a brief once-over, to
ensure that it was safe.
“Calm down! They won’t start without us!” she heard Ron yell from the first
floor. A moment later, he appeared at the top of the stairs, grinning at her.
floor. A moment later, he appeared at the top of the stairs, grinning at her.
She huffed. “That might be so…”
“It is so — we’re the guests of honour. They can’t celebrate Voldemort’s
defeat without us.” Ron interrupted her with a hug.
defeat without us.” Ron interrupted her with a hug.
“Some of them certainly would like to.” She scowled, remembering the latest
debate in the Wizengamot.
debate in the Wizengamot.
“Bah. Their proposal was soundly defeated.” Ron scoffed. “Putting Malfoy and
his ilk on the memorial, next to those who died fighting Voldemort? The
‘Unholy Alliance’ is certainly trying everything to live up to their name.”
his ilk on the memorial, next to those who died fighting Voldemort? The
‘Unholy Alliance’ is certainly trying everything to live up to their name.”
“Their nickname,” she corrected him — though privately, she felt that the
Prophet had nailed it perfectly when they coined that term for the situation
where both the Pureblood Party and the ‘Muggleborn Alternative’ supported the
same proposal. It was not surprising that Liz Vance, one of the founders of
the ‘Muggleborn Alternative’, had left the Muggleborn Popular Party after less
than a year, taking her seat with her. According to rumours, only Randall
Martens’s intervention had saved her from being cursed by Bess Cox. The press
had had a field day over that.
Prophet had nailed it perfectly when they coined that term for the situation
where both the Pureblood Party and the ‘Muggleborn Alternative’ supported the
same proposal. It was not surprising that Liz Vance, one of the founders of
the ‘Muggleborn Alternative’, had left the Muggleborn Popular Party after less
than a year, taking her seat with her. According to rumours, only Randall
Martens’s intervention had saved her from being cursed by Bess Cox. The press
had had a field day over that.
“If the boot fits…” Ron shrugged. “But let’s go now, or we’ll be late.”
“Oh, you!” She glared at him, but he simply kept smiling until she chuckled.
---
**London, Diagon Alley, February 1st, 2002**
“There you are! We were about to leave without you!” Fred greeted them as soon
as they stepped out of the fireplace in the twins’ shop.
as they stepped out of the fireplace in the twins’ shop.
“Don’t listen to him — we’d never even contemplate leaving without our most
famous family members!” George cut in.
famous family members!” George cut in.
“Yeah, you two never think before you do anything,” Ron retorted.
Hermione chuckled at the twins’ fake outraged expressions, though Ron’s
comment contained more than a grain of truth. That they married two French
witches they had met at Bill and Fleur’s wedding — a day after that wedding —
proved this, in her opinion. Molly had certainly agreed with her. Loudly.
Especially after she heard about the duels.
comment contained more than a grain of truth. That they married two French
witches they had met at Bill and Fleur’s wedding — a day after that wedding —
proved this, in her opinion. Molly had certainly agreed with her. Loudly.
Especially after she heard about the duels.
Although, Hermione thought, not for the first time, when she greeted Laura and
Noelle, she could understand why the twins had fallen so quickly for the two
witches — they were not only very beautiful, but also witty and charming. If
only Fred and George didn’t keep claiming that they had met their wives
before, with that infuriating grin that told everyone they were hiding
something.
Noelle, she could understand why the twins had fallen so quickly for the two
witches — they were not only very beautiful, but also witty and charming. If
only Fred and George didn’t keep claiming that they had met their wives
before, with that infuriating grin that told everyone they were hiding
something.
---
“Blimey, that’s a big crowd,” Hermione heard Ron mutter when they stepped out
of the twins’ shop.
of the twins’ shop.
He was correct — Diagon Alley was packed full of people. Even years after the
war, and more than a year since the last incident related to it, Hermione
didn’t like crowds. Even when they appeared to be friendly, even cheering for
her when the passers-by recognised her — it was just too easy for an assassin
to hide in such a crowd.
war, and more than a year since the last incident related to it, Hermione
didn’t like crowds. Even when they appeared to be friendly, even cheering for
her when the passers-by recognised her — it was just too easy for an assassin
to hide in such a crowd.
She glanced up to check if the Magical Militia, as the Hit-Wizards were now
called, after her proposal of naming them the ‘British Armed Magical Forces’
had been shot down, were at their posts, covering the Aurors responsible for
crowd control, with wands and guns at the ready. Tania was in charge today, so
the soldiers had better stay on their toes — Tania still treated every mission
and exercise as if they were at war. It was probably her way of coping — not
everyone in the Resistance had responded equally well to the therapy Hermione
had pushed on them and her other friends.
called, after her proposal of naming them the ‘British Armed Magical Forces’
had been shot down, were at their posts, covering the Aurors responsible for
crowd control, with wands and guns at the ready. Tania was in charge today, so
the soldiers had better stay on their toes — Tania still treated every mission
and exercise as if they were at war. It was probably her way of coping — not
everyone in the Resistance had responded equally well to the therapy Hermione
had pushed on them and her other friends.
“Hey! Hermione!”
Some of them, of course, Hermione thought with a smile as she saw Dennis
standing on a roof next to the twins’ shop, waving at her, were not
intimidated by Tania at all. “Hi, Dennis!” She waved back. Looking at the
smiling young wizard, one would not imagine that he had spent a year under the
effects of the Draught of Living Death, until the Unspeakables had finally
managed to create a counter-curse, she thought.
standing on a roof next to the twins’ shop, waving at her, were not
intimidated by Tania at all. “Hi, Dennis!” She waved back. Looking at the
smiling young wizard, one would not imagine that he had spent a year under the
effects of the Draught of Living Death, until the Unspeakables had finally
managed to create a counter-curse, she thought.
“The M&Ms are out in force,” Ron said next to her. Hermione glared at him —
the Militia weren’t fond of that particular nickname.
the Militia weren’t fond of that particular nickname.
He shrugged. “Hey, I’m one of the few professional officers; I get to make fun
of the rank and file.”
of the rank and file.”
Sometimes Hermione wondered if Ron wasn’t a bit too much like his next eldest
brothers. “Harry would disagree. And he’s your superior officer.”
brothers. “Harry would disagree. And he’s your superior officer.”
“He won’t.”
“Well, he should.” She shook her head, but she was grinning.
Although her grin diminished when she passed a gaggle of French muggleborns —
easily recognisable by the mix of French and English they spoke. The numbers
of French muggleborns moving to Britain had risen steadily over the last few
years — since they couldn’t vote in France, many of them were voting with
their feet. And usually added their voices, and later votes, to those
demanding ‘a more robust policy towards the oppressive regime of the Duc’, as
some members of the Wizengamot called it. As if Britain wasn’t already putting
pressure on the French! Sooner or later the Duc would see reason — without
Britain having to go to war. Or the French starting a civil war.
easily recognisable by the mix of French and English they spoke. The numbers
of French muggleborns moving to Britain had risen steadily over the last few
years — since they couldn’t vote in France, many of them were voting with
their feet. And usually added their voices, and later votes, to those
demanding ‘a more robust policy towards the oppressive regime of the Duc’, as
some members of the Wizengamot called it. As if Britain wasn’t already putting
pressure on the French! Sooner or later the Duc would see reason — without
Britain having to go to war. Or the French starting a civil war.
After all, Britain was widely recognised as the strongest country in Europe,
not least thanks to her and her friends’ efforts, but no one sane wanted to
start another war.
not least thanks to her and her friends’ efforts, but no one sane wanted to
start another war.
Unless a country decided to murder muggleborns.
---
The place where Voldemort had been killed, and where the ceremony would be
held, was cordoned off. The Aurors manning the entrances let Hermione and Ron
pass, of course — but she noted with satisfaction that they were ready to act
in case the Thief’s Downfall installed at the gate should reveal anything. The
area inside was limited to invited guests, and so the crowd here wasn’t quite
as large — nor as densely packed. A necessity, Hermione thought, so that the
various Wizengamot members and high-ranking Ministry employees were not forced
to literally rub elbows with their political rivals.
held, was cordoned off. The Aurors manning the entrances let Hermione and Ron
pass, of course — but she noted with satisfaction that they were ready to act
in case the Thief’s Downfall installed at the gate should reveal anything. The
area inside was limited to invited guests, and so the crowd here wasn’t quite
as large — nor as densely packed. A necessity, Hermione thought, so that the
various Wizengamot members and high-ranking Ministry employees were not forced
to literally rub elbows with their political rivals.
Which, unfortunately, didn’t mean they couldn’t accidentally meet someone
they’d rather not. Like Alfons Runcorn and his family.
they’d rather not. Like Alfons Runcorn and his family.
She’d as soon curse the man as greet him, but appearances had to be maintained
— Hermione knew the member of the Pureblood Party would be only too glad to
denounce her as an uncouth barbarian.
— Hermione knew the member of the Pureblood Party would be only too glad to
denounce her as an uncouth barbarian.
“Mr Runcorn, Mrs Runcorn.” She even nodded at their baby. Ron grunted
something that, if one were extremely charitable, could be called a greeting.
something that, if one were extremely charitable, could be called a greeting.
“Madam Granger. Messrs Weasley,” Runcorn barely inclined his head, and seemed
to ignore the twins’ wives entirely. His wife nodded, but kept fussing over
their baby — apparently named ‘Albert’. “I must again protest the biased
nature of this ceremony. The memorial should honour all victims of the war.”
to ignore the twins’ wives entirely. His wife nodded, but kept fussing over
their baby — apparently named ‘Albert’. “I must again protest the biased
nature of this ceremony. The memorial should honour all victims of the war.”
Hermione’s urge to curse the idiot grew stronger. Five years in the Wizengamot
had taught her to hide her emotions, though, and so she refrained from acting
on her desires. Instead she smiled thinly at the man. “The Wizengamot’s
decision was quite clear, Mr Runcorn. Followers of the Dark Lord and their
allies have no place on the memorial.”
had taught her to hide her emotions, though, and so she refrained from acting
on her desires. Instead she smiled thinly at the man. “The Wizengamot’s
decision was quite clear, Mr Runcorn. Followers of the Dark Lord and their
allies have no place on the memorial.”
“Not everyone who died in Malfoy Manor was a follower of the Dark Lord!”
“You’re correct — there were two muggleborns who had been captured and
imprisoned in Malfoy’s dungeon. Their names are on the memorial.” Hermione’s
smile showed her teeth. “If you’ll excuse us — we’re expected to join the
other guests of honour.”
imprisoned in Malfoy’s dungeon. Their names are on the memorial.” Hermione’s
smile showed her teeth. “If you’ll excuse us — we’re expected to join the
other guests of honour.”
“Bloody tosser,” Ron said as they walked away — just loud enough to carry to
Runcorn, Hermione thought. “I wonder why he even attends the ceremony if he
likes Death Eaters so much.”
Runcorn, Hermione thought. “I wonder why he even attends the ceremony if he
likes Death Eaters so much.”
“So he can claim he doesn’t, of course,” Hermione said. The Pureblood Party
was quite careful to loudly distance themselves from Voldemort, even though
their actual proposals and speeches were almost identical to those given by
the Dark Lord’s allies in 1996.
was quite careful to loudly distance themselves from Voldemort, even though
their actual proposals and speeches were almost identical to those given by
the Dark Lord’s allies in 1996.
It wouldn’t avail them anything, though, she thought with some satisfaction —
with the compensations and fines levied on the Death Eaters’ estates, their
fortunes had been substantially diminished, and there were simply too few
purebloods left who supported the Old Families. Moreover, the muggleborn
population was growing thanks to a sizeable number of immigrants, mostly from
France and the rest of Europe.
with the compensations and fines levied on the Death Eaters’ estates, their
fortunes had been substantially diminished, and there were simply too few
purebloods left who supported the Old Families. Moreover, the muggleborn
population was growing thanks to a sizeable number of immigrants, mostly from
France and the rest of Europe.
The Old Families’ time would not return.
---
The stands for the guests of honour — and the assorted hanger-ons, as Ron
called the Wizengamot members and various worthies — had been under close
observation for the entire time since they had been conjured. Even the ground
below had been regularly patrolled. Hermione cast a few spells anyway, to
check for traps and curses. The last attack by a disturbed wizard or witch who
hadn’t let go of their grudges from the war had been more than a year ago, and
had been foiled by the Aurors, but Hermione wasn’t about to become careless —
she knew just how much many of the Old Families hated her.
called the Wizengamot members and various worthies — had been under close
observation for the entire time since they had been conjured. Even the ground
below had been regularly patrolled. Hermione cast a few spells anyway, to
check for traps and curses. The last attack by a disturbed wizard or witch who
hadn’t let go of their grudges from the war had been more than a year ago, and
had been foiled by the Aurors, but Hermione wasn’t about to become careless —
she knew just how much many of the Old Families hated her.
“Snakes ahead,” Ron whispered, nodding towards the first row of guests. She
turned and narrowed her eyes. It seemed Daphne Greengrass and Tracey Davis had
returned to Britain for this occasion, after spending years away on their
‘Grand Tour’. Greengrass’s sister had apparently stayed in France. ‘Cocky of
them,’ Ron went on. “Is that Greengrass’s husband behind them?”
turned and narrowed her eyes. It seemed Daphne Greengrass and Tracey Davis had
returned to Britain for this occasion, after spending years away on their
‘Grand Tour’. Greengrass’s sister had apparently stayed in France. ‘Cocky of
them,’ Ron went on. “Is that Greengrass’s husband behind them?”
“Yes. The dear Monsieur Marbot,” Fred replied from behind her. She glanced
over her shoulder and saw that he was baring his teeth.
over her shoulder and saw that he was baring his teeth.
“He wasn’t involved in your duels, was he?” Hermione asked sotto voce. The
last thing Britain needed right now was a diplomatic incident with the French.
last thing Britain needed right now was a diplomatic incident with the French.
“No, no.” George shook his head, wrapping his arm around his wife’s waist.
“But we’ve met. In France, last year.”
“But we’ve met. In France, last year.”
“He didn’t like it when we tried to give him some advice, husband to husband,
about how to survive a Slytherin marriage.” Fred chuckled.
about how to survive a Slytherin marriage.” Fred chuckled.
Hermione drew a hissing breath. “Don’t create an incident today.”
“We won’t,” George said. “We have an understanding with them.”
“You have one. I never claimed to understand witches, least of all
Slytherins,” his brother retorted. Laura and Noelle giggled at that — but
then, the two French witches had agreed to marry the twins, so Hermione
couldn’t expect any help from them when it came to reining in the two
troublemakers.
Slytherins,” his brother retorted. Laura and Noelle giggled at that — but
then, the two French witches had agreed to marry the twins, so Hermione
couldn’t expect any help from them when it came to reining in the two
troublemakers.
She resisted the urge to rub her forehead. “Just behave.”
“Of course!” the two chorused. Marriage definitely hadn’t made them any wiser,
she thought. On the other hand, it was nice to see that they hadn’t let the
war affect them too much.
she thought. On the other hand, it was nice to see that they hadn’t let the
war affect them too much.
Unlike so many others.
---
Other important guests were already present as well, like Neville, one of the
more prominent members of Sirius’s faction in the Wizengamot. Justin and
Sally-Anne, recently married — having become a fully-qualified Healer
apparently had endeared the witch to his parents, though Hermione was certain
that Justin would have married Sally-Anne anyway — waved at them. At least her
own parents had accepted Ron without hesitation — much more easily than they
had accepted her own actions in the war. But that was in the past.
more prominent members of Sirius’s faction in the Wizengamot. Justin and
Sally-Anne, recently married — having become a fully-qualified Healer
apparently had endeared the witch to his parents, though Hermione was certain
that Justin would have married Sally-Anne anyway — waved at them. At least her
own parents had accepted Ron without hesitation — much more easily than they
had accepted her own actions in the war. But that was in the past.
Aberforth was not in attendance, as those who knew the old wizard had
expected. But Antoine Delacour greeted them with a smile and a bow fit for the
French Court. “Madame Granger-Weasley. Mesdames et Messieurs Weasley.”
expected. But Antoine Delacour greeted them with a smile and a bow fit for the
French Court. “Madame Granger-Weasley. Mesdames et Messieurs Weasley.”
“Monsieur Delacour,” Hermione nodded at him. The formal greeting let her know
that he wasn’t here as a friend — and in-law — of the family, nor simply to
honour the fallen Delacours and d’Aigles, but as a representative of the Duc
d’Orléans. Who, apparently, was hoping that gracing this event with an
official envoy and reminding everyone that French purebloods had fought and
died against Voldemort would placate some of the more vocal muggleborns in his
and her countries.
that he wasn’t here as a friend — and in-law — of the family, nor simply to
honour the fallen Delacours and d’Aigles, but as a representative of the Duc
d’Orléans. Who, apparently, was hoping that gracing this event with an
official envoy and reminding everyone that French purebloods had fought and
died against Voldemort would placate some of the more vocal muggleborns in his
and her countries.
It wouldn’t, of course — or not for long. But Antoine’s presence at this
ceremony would also make other countries wonder if the ties between Wizarding
Britain and Magical France were growing stronger — which would be a source of
some concern for many. Wizarding Britain was acknowledged as one of the
premier powers in the Magical World, after all — and rightfully so, these days
at least. Together, France and Britain could easily dominate the ICW — if the
Duc were willing to reform the country, of course. Hermione suppressed a sigh
— Britain’s relationship to France was aptly described by the term
‘complicated’.
ceremony would also make other countries wonder if the ties between Wizarding
Britain and Magical France were growing stronger — which would be a source of
some concern for many. Wizarding Britain was acknowledged as one of the
premier powers in the Magical World, after all — and rightfully so, these days
at least. Together, France and Britain could easily dominate the ICW — if the
Duc were willing to reform the country, of course. Hermione suppressed a sigh
— Britain’s relationship to France was aptly described by the term
‘complicated’.
Ron and his brothers greeted the wizard, Laura and Noelle curtsying even
before exchanging pleasantries in French. Nothing beyond that, of course —
this was neither the time nor the place for more serious talk with the French
envoy.
before exchanging pleasantries in French. Nothing beyond that, of course —
this was neither the time nor the place for more serious talk with the French
envoy.
“Hermione! Ron! Fred! George! Laura! Noelle!” Luna hugged each and every
person she named with great enthusiasm.
person she named with great enthusiasm.
“Luna!” Hermione smiled widely. “Are you covering the event for The Quibbler?”
The blonde nodded rapidly, then pulled out a press badge… which seemed to have
been made by carving letters into a slice of apple. “Yes!” She turned serious
in an instant and narrowed her eyes at Hermione. The effect was rather cute.
“Madam Granger-Weasley, would you be available for an interview later today?”
been made by carving letters into a slice of apple. “Yes!” She turned serious
in an instant and narrowed her eyes at Hermione. The effect was rather cute.
“Madam Granger-Weasley, would you be available for an interview later today?”
“Certainly,” Hermione agreed at once. Luna was a rather eccentric journalist,
but unlike others, she had no agenda.
but unlike others, she had no agenda.
“Fantastic! Your opinion on the platypus controversy will carry great weight!”
A *very* eccentric journalist, Hermione corrected herself while Ron chuckled —
she had no idea what their friend was talking about.
she had no idea what their friend was talking about.
However, before she could ask Luna for an explanation Hermione wasn’t entirely
sure she would understand anyway, they were interrupted by the arrival of the
rest of the guests of honour, and the excitement that caused among the crowd —
at least those who were wizards or witches; most of the parents of the fallen
muggleborns who were attending the ceremony looked either confused or less
enthusiastic.
sure she would understand anyway, they were interrupted by the arrival of the
rest of the guests of honour, and the excitement that caused among the crowd —
at least those who were wizards or witches; most of the parents of the fallen
muggleborns who were attending the ceremony looked either confused or less
enthusiastic.
“The Boy-Who-Lived!”
“Dumbledore’s Heir!”
“The One-Who-Won!”
Hermione felt a small pang of jealousy. Whereas Harry was seen as one of the
most powerful wizards — a reputation he couldn’t live up to, not yet at least,
especially since he still needed to keep the Elder Wand a secret — and
Dumbledore’s worthy heir, she was seen as the cunning and ruthless — or
perfidious — ‘Purebloods’ Boggart’. She knew it wasn’t entirely undeserved,
but it still felt unfair to her. And Ron was mostly seen as Harry’s best
friend, not as the hero he was in his own right, which was even more unfair.
most powerful wizards — a reputation he couldn’t live up to, not yet at least,
especially since he still needed to keep the Elder Wand a secret — and
Dumbledore’s worthy heir, she was seen as the cunning and ruthless — or
perfidious — ‘Purebloods’ Boggart’. She knew it wasn’t entirely undeserved,
but it still felt unfair to her. And Ron was mostly seen as Harry’s best
friend, not as the hero he was in his own right, which was even more unfair.
She forced those petty feelings away. Everyone had done their part in the war,
after all, and they hadn’t beaten Voldemort for fame, but to save the country.
after all, and they hadn’t beaten Voldemort for fame, but to save the country.
Harry hadn’t arrived alone, of course. He was walking arm in arm with Ginny,
and right behind him walked Sirius and Vivienne, and she could spot Remus and
Tonks standing with the Aurors. Remus looked rather tired — the full moon had
been but four days ago — and they still hadn’t found a counter-curse to cure
his arm.
and right behind him walked Sirius and Vivienne, and she could spot Remus and
Tonks standing with the Aurors. Remus looked rather tired — the full moon had
been but four days ago — and they still hadn’t found a counter-curse to cure
his arm.
A single wizard didn’t rate as much effort by the Department of Mysteries as
the victims of the Withering Curse, so she didn’t expect that to change any
time soon. Especially not when the houngans claimed that whoever had cast the
curse had taken its secret with them to their grave, and with the Unspeakables
making an effort to find a way to destroy the Dementors. At least the
enchanted metal sleeve Remus was wearing was working as well as an enchanted
prosthetic, which was better than nothing. It certainly didn’t stop him from
hunting Pettigrew whenever there was a new clue to the traitor’s whereabouts —
although that didn’t happen too often. Which was a good thing, since he was
needed at Hogwarts, being the first Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher in
decades to hold the post for, so far, three consecutive years.
the victims of the Withering Curse, so she didn’t expect that to change any
time soon. Especially not when the houngans claimed that whoever had cast the
curse had taken its secret with them to their grave, and with the Unspeakables
making an effort to find a way to destroy the Dementors. At least the
enchanted metal sleeve Remus was wearing was working as well as an enchanted
prosthetic, which was better than nothing. It certainly didn’t stop him from
hunting Pettigrew whenever there was a new clue to the traitor’s whereabouts —
although that didn’t happen too often. Which was a good thing, since he was
needed at Hogwarts, being the first Defence Against the Dark Arts teacher in
decades to hold the post for, so far, three consecutive years.
And, as Sirius was fond of describing, with a lot of imagination and
speculation about metamorphmagi, Remus was also very happily married to Tonks.
They had one son, with a second child on the way. And, Hermione thought as she
greeted her friends, he was alive.
speculation about metamorphmagi, Remus was also very happily married to Tonks.
They had one son, with a second child on the way. And, Hermione thought as she
greeted her friends, he was alive.
---
“… and we shall never forgot this fateful struggle, and the tragedies that
filled those days…”
filled those days…”
While Pius Thicknesse droned on, Hermione saw Ginny lean towards her. “That’s
what I love the most about playing Quidditch for a living: We don’t have to
listen to such speeches all day long,” the other witch whispered.
what I love the most about playing Quidditch for a living: We don’t have to
listen to such speeches all day long,” the other witch whispered.
“You have to listen to your coach, and to your fans,” Ron retorted before
Hermione could comment.
Hermione could comment.
“They’re not as bad as the Minister,” his sister said. “How could you elect
him of all people?”
him of all people?”
Hermione narrowed her eyes at her friend — Ginny knew very well why Thicknesse
had become Minister for Magic. Her own father and brother had been involved
prominently in that deal as well, after all. “On the other hand, you have to
deal with both the Prophet and Seeker Weekly speculating about your love
life.” She tried not to smile when the redhead’s grin turned into a scowl.
While the relationship between Harry and Ginny had its ups and downs, it was
nowhere near as volatile as the press made it out to be.
had become Minister for Magic. Her own father and brother had been involved
prominently in that deal as well, after all. “On the other hand, you have to
deal with both the Prophet and Seeker Weekly speculating about your love
life.” She tried not to smile when the redhead’s grin turned into a scowl.
While the relationship between Harry and Ginny had its ups and downs, it was
nowhere near as volatile as the press made it out to be.
Harry reached over and patted his fiancée’s arm, and Ginny sighed and leaned
into his side. Hermione smiled at that — her friend was happy, at last — it
had taken a while for him to get over the war. For everyone, including her, of
course.
into his side. Hermione smiled at that — her friend was happy, at last — it
had taken a while for him to get over the war. For everyone, including her, of
course.
And some were still not over it, she added to herself with a glance at Bones.
The former Minister for Magic was a guest of honour as well — her role in the
war demanded no less — but she was looking as bitter as she had when she had
been forced out of office. Hermione doubted that that would change, not even
if the witch succeeded in her bid to be elected to the Wizengamot this year.
Bones was just unable to let go and accept that a war wasn’t a criminal
investigation.
The former Minister for Magic was a guest of honour as well — her role in the
war demanded no less — but she was looking as bitter as she had when she had
been forced out of office. Hermione doubted that that would change, not even
if the witch succeeded in her bid to be elected to the Wizengamot this year.
Bones was just unable to let go and accept that a war wasn’t a criminal
investigation.
Although Bones had at least given some praise to the changes to the judicial
system Sirius and Hermione had forced through — even she could see that the
new judges were working better than the Wizengamot, old or new.
system Sirius and Hermione had forced through — even she could see that the
new judges were working better than the Wizengamot, old or new.
Thicknesse had finally finished his speech, and now Scrimgeour was taking his
place. The Head of the DMLE was the Minister’s main rival these days, as
Hermione knew only too well thanks to both trying to curry favour with her.
Personally, she favoured replacing Thicknesse with Arthur, but her
father-in-law wasn’t quite ready yet — or so he claimed. As long as Hermione
and Sirius controlled the Wizengamot, she didn’t much mind who was Minister —
the reforms hadn’t touched the Wizengamot’s primacy over the Ministry.
place. The Head of the DMLE was the Minister’s main rival these days, as
Hermione knew only too well thanks to both trying to curry favour with her.
Personally, she favoured replacing Thicknesse with Arthur, but her
father-in-law wasn’t quite ready yet — or so he claimed. As long as Hermione
and Sirius controlled the Wizengamot, she didn’t much mind who was Minister —
the reforms hadn’t touched the Wizengamot’s primacy over the Ministry.
“… and I think that all of us who fought the Dark Lord agree that those of our
comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice should never be forgotten, which is
why this enchanted memorial here was built.”
comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice should never be forgotten, which is
why this enchanted memorial here was built.”
Hermione wasn’t the only one who glanced at the veiled monument in response to
those words. Although she was, to her knowledge, the only one who knew that
the spells which made the names of all the fallen appear in random order on
the golden plaque on the marble monolith had been modified slightly. By
herself.
those words. Although she was, to her knowledge, the only one who knew that
the spells which made the names of all the fallen appear in random order on
the golden plaque on the marble monolith had been modified slightly. By
herself.
It might be a petty gesture, but Allan Baker didn’t deserve to have his name
appear on this memorial.
appear on this memorial.
---
It was surprising just how quiet the large crowd was, Hermione thought as she
watched the names appear and disappear on the golden plaque on the black
marble monolith.
watched the names appear and disappear on the golden plaque on the black
marble monolith.
Albus Dumbledore. Dean Thomas. Maisie Maygold. Seamus Finnigan. Timothy
Meyers. Balthasar Brinden. Alastor Moody. Mary Smith. Colin Creevey. Martin
Cokes. Jeremiah Brinden. Severus Snape. Jeremy Chadwick. Cornelius Fudge. Eric
Ballantine. Hortensia Brinden. Gary Coulton. Augusta Longbottom. Mary-Jane
Milton. Anna Baker. Brad Watts. Sinclair Thompson. Kingsley Shacklebolt.
Meyers. Balthasar Brinden. Alastor Moody. Mary Smith. Colin Creevey. Martin
Cokes. Jeremiah Brinden. Severus Snape. Jeremy Chadwick. Cornelius Fudge. Eric
Ballantine. Hortensia Brinden. Gary Coulton. Augusta Longbottom. Mary-Jane
Milton. Anna Baker. Brad Watts. Sinclair Thompson. Kingsley Shacklebolt.
She kept a mental tally of her friends and comrades amidst the flood of names.
Friends, comrades, strangers. All of them killed in the war, fighting against
Voldemort and his followers. Now united on this memorial.
Friends, comrades, strangers. All of them killed in the war, fighting against
Voldemort and his followers. Now united on this memorial.
So many dead… She pressed her lips together and squeezed Ron’s hand. They owed
it to them to ensure that such a war would never be fought again. To keep
Britain safe. And to continue turning her into a country of which they could
be proud.
it to them to ensure that such a war would never be fought again. To keep
Britain safe. And to continue turning her into a country of which they could
be proud.
Hermione would do all she could to repay that debt. She would not let them
have died in vain.
have died in vain.