Chapter Ten - The Announcement
It was early in the morning, Hermione sat down in the dining room gazing at her beautiful engagement ring, the 15 carat diamond wrapped beautifully with pure white gold, the patterns on the ring looked majestic and mesmerizing. Warren approached the dining room, eating toast and reading the Daily Prophet. His eyes scanning the daily happenings in the magic society. Hermione looked at her father and smiled.
"Good morning Daddy," she said to her father.
"Good morning dove, how was your sleep?"
"It was beautiful thank you. How was yours?"
"Good, although it's the beginning of the week, I really not in the mood to get bitten today," Hermione giggled at her father's response. His expression suddenly changed from happy to shock in seconds, his eyes heavily imbedded on a particular article. Hermione became concerned, was it about her and Viktor, a juicy scandal that mentions her, would it be an exposé of her tragic capture.
"What are you reading Daddy?" she said, walking behind her father taking a glimpse of the news article:
LESTRANGE FOUND DEAD
Aurors have discovered a body, located near a ditch in Oxford, about 2:37 a.m. on 12 of February 2000. The coroner have identified the body of Rodolphus Lestrange, a convicted Death-eater and a successful escapee of Azkaban Prison.
They have apprehended a potential suspect, who was at the scene and will be in custody before the Wizengamot. The Senior Undersecretary to the Minister has granted the suspect name suppression, due to considerable risk of retribution from Lestrange followers. A postmortem of the body will be released next week. The Department of Magical Law Enforcement are investigating the murder and are urging witness to come forward.
Spokesman for Department of Magical Law Enforcement, Roslyn Morgan, has confirmed that Mr Lestrange has formed an organisation to attempt to overrule the Ministry of Magic, like his predecessor before him, Whom-can-not-be-named. It is believed that Lestrange has many properties, used as base of operations all over Europe.
Lestrange, along with his associates were involved in the kidnapping and torture of Hermione Granger, who is part of the Golden Trio with Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley. We have tried to contact her to discuss this matter, however Minister of Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt, close friend of Granger has informed us to respect her privacy.
The Political Uproar:
Aragon Garnet, Wizengamot Member and Legal Representative of the suspect, informed the media that this case will open wounds of the Second Wizarding War and will cause mass implications in the political spectrum, both domestic and foreign. He challenged the Azkaban Security Officials and Very Important Wizards (ASOVIW) and the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, placing them at fault for this debacle.
ASOVIW are investigating the issue of Lestrange escape and are currently implementing tougher procedures and regulations to avoid this from happening again. The Ministry of Magic will be conducting a review on Azkaban security processes and will meet with the Senior Members of ASOVIW to get an explanation about Lestrange's escape.
Officials of the Department of International Magical Cooperation have urged caution to foreign Countries throughout Europe of a potential global threat. Minster of Magic, Kingsley Shacklebolt has made Muggle Prime Minister of United Kingdom aware of the issue. The Minister has placed highly trained Aurors as security detail for the Prime Minister.
We will keep you updated on the latest developments when it comes.
"Well this is bad. One person did all this and for what?" Warren said, he placed the Daily Prophet on the table, "I thought this was over,"
"Hermione, we have a visitor," Marie said as she entered the dining room with Kingsley.
"Hello Minister Shacklebolt," Hermione said, she shook Kingsley's hand, "please forgive me, I'm not appropriately dressed," Kingsley laughed.
"No problems at all, I came unexpectedly and please call me Kingsley, we're friends," he replied and examined the rock on her finger, "Oh is there a congratulations in order is it?" he smirked and held her hand with the engagement ring on.
"Yes there is, Viktor proposed to me and well here's my answer," Hermione said, reminiscing last night.
"Well he's a lucky guy to have a beautiful and Intelligent girl, congratulations," he gave Hermione a friendly hug and smiled brightly at her, "This is wonderful news to me. But we have pressing matters at hand and I'm sure you've read this morning's article," Kingsley stared at the Daily Prophet on the table.
The thoughts of her rape came back into picture, seeing Rodolphus and his men playing with her, forcing her to fulfil their sexual desires. It left her broken and traumatised, the pain she felt during the abuse was unbearable. Tears came rolling down her face, it still haunted her. Marie approached and cuddled her daughter gently, she knew what her daughter is going through and will support her every step of the way. Kingsley gave a concerned look, he knew of the abuse, it made him guilty to open the wounds of the past.
"Hermione, I'm so sorry. You've been through so much. I will do everything I can to protect you, your family and our community. You will never suffer this burden again
"Thank you Kingsley. Memories will always be there. In a way, I see myself as a survivor not a Victim. Every man forced themselves on me, I sure hope they burn in hell, forever feel pain and suffering, just like I have. Karma will find them and I'm glad it found Rodolphus Lestrange," she said, her eyes flowing with tears, she was angry. Her mother muttered soothing words in Hermione's ears, making her calm and relaxed, "What's going to happen now?"
"The suspect will be tried for the death, the normal legal process. I'll be handling the political impact that this has made. I'm going to the International Confederation of Wizards, tomorrow morning. There is panic across Europe, I'm sure that this doesn't turn into a Third Wizarding War," Kingsley stared solemnly to the ground, he let out a sigh.
"I hope it doesn't come to that too," Hermione said.
"I have also come here to let you know, that you will not return to work until we are satisfied that your safety will not be compromised,"
"WHAT! Kingsley this has nothing to do with me!" Hermione screamed
"Hermione please understand, I know you love your job and you want to get back into it, however you're a link to Lestrange. His followers will no doubt seek you for his death. You, your family and Mr Krum are in danger. We are making arrangements for you all,"
Hermione frowned, it has been a long time since she returned to work. She knew to well not refuse the Minister's order, it had to be done. Lives were at risk.
Warren noticed Hermione's worried expression and approached her. "My dear, it's for the best. Me and mum will make sure you're safe, you're our priority," he said, kissing his daughter head.
"Dad, it may take months, even years to sort this out,"
"Sweetheart, family comes first, even if it takes awhile, we don't leave our own," her mother said. She brushed her daughter's hair with her hand, "we still have some... investments," her head turned to Warren.
Warren received an extravagant amount of funds from his father, the greatest man of all time. He was the only child in the family, his mother passed away after his birth, leaving his father to care for him. His father was an archeologist, discovering tombs and ancient ruins, Warren reminisced the childhood moments when his father would take him on wild adventures and even get caught in near death experiences. When his father passed away, he was left with everything.
He remembered his father saying, "Money can't buy you happiness. It will look after you, if you look after it. Be humble and selfless," he followed his father's advice. Wealth was not important to him. He lived a normal life, he brought his own home, car and job without his father's wealth, instead he donated to charity and keep it for Hermione.
"Yes we do. We'll use it as income," he said after a long pause.
"You will need to be careful when you make transactions, they may be able to track them. We can also help as well, if you need financial help," Kingsley said cautiously to Warren, "perhaps using your old alias would be sufficient?"
"We'll be careful rest assured and we won't need financial help but thank you for offering. If going back to our alias is the only option to deter detection, then we'll take it,"
"Excellent, the offer still valid, just in case. We'll organise the relocation for you. Due to the advancement in spell casting, it would be essential to stay with a magical family, one that has protection wards, make it hard to track,"
Hermione agreed, spells are becoming more advanced and the safety of her family was absolutely paramount, "Ok, we have that out-of-the-way, what about Viktor and his family?"
"The property where the Krums reside have powerful wards surrounding the place, making it impenetrable. The Ministry of Magic in Bulgaria have placed their Aurors to secure the perimeters. They'll be safe,"
Hermione had a worried expression on her face, her mother cupped her face and smiled, "We will all be fine my love. Stop worrying and relax. Viktor will be fine, rest assured," Marie reassured her. Hermione sighed and relaxed. The thoughts of the Lestrange Murder Trail however were playing inside her head.
Hermione release herself from the embrace and focused on Kingsley, "why is this person being accused of murder. What evidence has the ministry got to pin point? Actually, this person should be rewarded. Lestrange has been nothing but cruel," Hermione exclaimed.
"We live in a fair and just society, regardless if the man was good or bad, he is like us. We must be fair and understanding. Only through the truth, will determine this person's fate," Kingsley said.
"May I ask who the suspect is?"
Kingsley placed his hands on his chin, thinking. To give out this information was a risk, but it's to Hermione Granger, the brightest witch of her age, who he trusted completely.
"What I'm about to tell you must be kept strictly confidential. This goes to you both as well Mr and Mrs Granger," Kingsley cautioned, everyone nodded in agreement, "The suspect is a person that is close to you. Someone that has been with you since the first day at Hogwarts," Hermione's hand went to her mouth in shock.
"It's Ron?"
"Yes it is. He is the one accused of Lestrange murder," Hermione's face was pale, Ron her best friend may be locked in Azkaban for life for making the world a better place. She felt enraged by the fact that the Ministry could not excuse the legal proceedings for Ron. She glared at Kingsley, knowing too well he has the power to quash Ron's convictions.
"I can't believe it Kingsley, Ron is not like that. This is all Lestrange doing, Kingsley. Can't you see, he's brought our world to a panic. The world leaders are frightened. Don't tell me that isn't the case, otherwise they wouldn't hold an urgent meeting with you," Hermione reasoned with Kingsley.
"I can only do so much, Hermione. I have absolute confidence that Ron case will work in his favour. Mr Garnet is Ron's Legal Representative, he's a gifted Wizard with vast knowledge in Magical Law. He will take care of Ron, rest assured,"
Hermione's face brightened up to the name Aragon Garnet, the brightest and Intelligent Wizard of his age. Hermione admired him greatly. Aragon graduated at Moutohora School of Magic (pronounced Mow-to-ho-ra) in New Zealand at age 15 and moved to London to study for his Bachelor in Magical Law and Civil Rights, which he completed at age 18. During his time as a law student, he became an Apprentice Legislator for the Ministry of Magic in New Zealand. Aragon became one of the youngest Wizards ever to hold prestigious positions and is now a member of the Wizengamot.
"I'm well aware of Mr Garnet, the brightest and gifted Wizard of his age. I've read about him. I was wondering if I could possibly meet him?" Hermione kept her neutral composure, however she was nervous on the inside, meeting with Aragon will make her star struck.
"Well actually he would like to meet you too. He's a big fan of the golden trio, especially you Miss Granger. I can arrange for him to meet you, once you're settled in your new place, ok?" Hermione couldn't contain her excitement, she was going to meet her hero. Kingsley smiled at her expression, "I'm sure you and him will be great friends,"
"I can't believe he knows me! He's a great Wizard, I can't wait to meet him!" Hermione exclaimed in excitement.
"Alright sweetie, calm down," her mother mellowed Hermione's excitement, although she was elated her daughter would meet her hero, "Minister, would you like to stay for breakfast? We are having a delicious English Breakfast, I can tell by your rumbling stomach," she pointed at Kingsley stomach.
Kingsley giggled and nodded in response, "Please call me Kingsley. I can't deny an English Breakfast, I would be delight to join thank you,"
Marie went into the kitchen and started on Breakfast while Hermione spoke with Kingsley About Ron's Trail and their relocation.
Kingsley informed the Grangers they had 24 hours to pack their belongings before the relocation. It was late in the afternoon, the house was empty, everything concealed in Hermione's bag, which had a extension and feather weight charm. Her parents were so impressed with her magical abilities and skills.
"Well, that was painless and we're ready, early than expected," Warren said, patting his hands. Hermione's magic did all the work.
"Ew Dad, please. If it wasn't for my magic, we would still be emptying the first room," Hermione joked, she and her mother laughed.
"I beg to differ I reckon I can pack this place up in just a few hours without the magic," Warren acted serious, which amused Marie. She wrapped her arms around his waist.
"You're my muscle man, I know you can do it," she winked at Warren and peck his face, much to his enjoyment
"Oh disgusting mum, can you do it when I'm not around," Hermione looked nauseous at her parent's romantic encounter. There was a knock at the door, "I'll get it," Hermione said cautiously, her parents nodded. She gripped her wand, "Who is it?!"
"Love it's me Viktor,"
Hermione still acted suspicious, she opened the door and pointed her wand at Viktor. He had his hands up shocked and confused. "Can you tell me where we had our 1st date?"
"At Rosa Lee Teabag, it was when we had our first kiss," Viktor couldn't help but reminiscing his first date with his Princess. Hermione dropped her wand and passionately kissed Viktor, he tingled in response and wrapped his arms around her. The sweet smell of her scent made him crazy. He felt his lower mid section, growing and harden, it was completely visible, "Love I have a bit of a problem," he whispered, placing his hands to his groin.
"What's wrong?" Hermione replied.
"Well my trousers like you," Hermione looked down and saw his bulge. She roared in laughter, "What's funny?!" Viktor felt annoyed that she was making fun of him.
"Oh nothing, I'm so sorry... Calm that down... we don't want ... to scare..." She continued to laugh, it was uncontrollable. Viktor frowned.
"Hello Viktor, my dear," Marie stood near by. Hermione calmed down and turned to her mother, standing in front of Viktor to hide his bulge. When his bulge met Hermione's rear end, he felt desire to make love to her.
"Hello Mrs Granger, I see that the house is already packed," Viktor smiled.
"Please call me Marie... or Mummy Granger," Marie replied, she expressed her excitement by jumping hysterically, "Yes we are packed and ready to take another milestone. I love going on adventures," Marie said.
"That's great Mrs... Marie, well I'm here as an escort with my best friend and cousin, Lev," Viktor gestured Lev to enter, who was hidden in the bushes. He walked in and closed the door.
"Why don't you look at that handsome fellow, he so adorable like Viktor," Marie cooed, Hermione slapped her hands on her face, embarrassed by her mother's assessment.
Lev bowed and shyly smiled, "Why thank you Mrs Granger, my name is Lev -"
"Zograf, the Bulgarian Quidditch Team Keeper... I read about Quidditch a lot in the Daily Prophet, I'm a big fan," Warren appeared, he approached the entrance way, excited seeing 2 famous Quidditch players in front of him.
"You have lovely family Hermione, a great addition to ours don't you think?" Lev said, smiling at Viktor.
"Yes they're indeed, family always fills my heart," Viktor replied, nestling into Hermione's neck.
"I'm so delighted that we're seen like that," Marie said, "So you 2 are escorting us, to where exactly?"
"We going to a neutral location and then from there we will take you to Krum Castle. We heard from your Minister of Magic to keep you all safe and that's what I'm going to do," Viktor felt Hermione's hand squeeze his, he smiled in response, "if you are all ready, I need to blind you, I'm afraid that this location is secret,"
Marie jumped in excitement, "going to the unknown, I can't wait,"
"Mum you're funny," Hermione chuckled, she then gazed at Viktor and peck his cheek, "so , we're packed and ready to go. Are you going to lead the way, kind sir?" she asked Viktor, he link his arms with hers.
"Yes, I will lead the way. We will apparate there. I will need to inform you, Mrs and Mr Granger, being your first time warping to a new place, it will upset your stomach. Here's a laxative, it will help after you apparate," Viktor gave them a flask of potion, "don't worry, it tastes like water and it will help, strengthen your immune system,"
"Oh dear, I feel nervous and excited at the same time, I seriously can't wait," Marie said. She and Warren drank the contents in the flask and prepared themselves.
Viktor cast a blinding spell on the Grangers so the location remains secret, Lev got the Hermione's bag awaiting Viktor's instructions.
"Lev, can you take Mr and Mrs Granger and I'll take Hermione," Viktor instructed.
"Yes of course," Lev followed through, he focused on Marie and Warren, "ok are you both ready," they nodded in response, "Ok grip on me tight, we're about to apparate in 3...2...1..." they disappeared from sight.
Viktor wrapped his arms around Hermione and planted his lips on hers, the sweet taste of her breath made his inside burst with pleasure, he suppressed those desires and whispered in her ear, "Are you ready, love?" He could hear Hermione breathing intensely.
"You are cruel, Mr Krum. But yes, I'm ready,"
"Alright, let's go" he embraced Hermione, and apparated.
"Ok where are we?" Hermione said.
"Not yet love, just a few steps," he guided her inside a large tent, "alright here you go," he waved his wand, returning Hermione's sight. She looked astonished at the people surrounding her.
"SURPRISE!" Everyone said in unison. Hermione's face brightened, she could see her friends and family surrounding her. Her mother and father, Harry, the whole Weasley family, Professor McGonagall, Luna, Neville, Seamus, Dean, Kingsley, Malcolm and Todor were present.
"WOW! This is a surprise alright," she playfully smacked Viktor's arm, "you always impress me," she kissed Viktor.
"It was a bit of a short notice but I hope you like it," Viktor said, smooching her.
"I love it," everyone awed at their romantic embrace.
"Show us that Rock, Granger!" Neville yelled. Everyone stared at Hermione waiting to get a glimpse at her engagement ring. She never liked attention, however seeing that it's with close family and friends, it didn't matter. She lifted her hand to showing off her 15 carat diamond ring, everyone awed at it.
Viktor grabbed 2 wine glasses, giving one to Hermione. He tapped his glass gently with his wand. The audience focused on Viktor, waiting to hear his speech, "Ever since I went to Hogwarts during the Tri-Wizard Tournament, I met my angel. I loved her ever since. My beautiful angel, smart, witty, extraordinary. The most happiest moment I had is when she agreed to marry me. We're getting married!" Everyone cheered and whistled loudly, "We have no date set, but rest assure, you are all coming to celebrate," he raised his glass and proposed a toast to his wife, the magical sparkles in her eyes made his heart flatter, "my beautiful wife-to-be this is for you, this is our future, together, forever," he clinked Hermione's glass and linked their arms around and drank their wine, "I love you, Hermione,"
"I love you too," everyone awed in response, Marie, Molly and Ginny cried at the romantic gesture.
The surprise party was fantastic, everyone congratulated Hermione and Viktor's engagement. When she saw Molly and Arthur, the thoughts of Ron haunted her. She put those thought behind her, this was her and Viktor's night. Kingsley tapped Hermione's shoulders.
"Hey Kingsley, are you enjoying yourself," she said, Kingsley nodded in response and smiled.
"The party is perfect. I have a surprise for you," Kingsley replied and stepped to the side to reveal a man. His face was youthful, refined and tan with hypnotising hazel eyes and his black hair brushed back perfectly. He shyly smiled at Hermione and Viktor, "Hermione, this is Aragon Garnet."
Author's Note: Thank you all for your wonderful reviews. Does anyone know how I could get a Beta to critique my work? (It will enhance my writing skills greatly).
Please keep reviewing, I really appreciate the feedback good or bad, I need to know.
Also Aragon Garnet is my own character, he's from New Zealand. He's an interesting person and you'll see more of him from now on.
I hoped you enjoyed it.