Chapter 10: Storm
Another unedited chapter. Pardon the mistakes.
His stormy eyes drifted to a huge and square two-storey house past the low garden wall. Harry had never considered the option that he might willingly return to this place after the fiasco at the start of the Easter break. Was that only five days ago? It felt almost like a lifetime away. Privet Drive was empty despite it was Good Friday.
The car rolled to a stop before Number Four.
The silent house looked as foreboding as usual. Harry had no happy memories associated with this place. He knew that he could tell Dan to drive them away from this place and he would instantly comply with his request since the dentist did not agree with his decision. Dan and Sirius were merely accompanying him to ensure his safety.
He raked his hand through his messy hair. As much as he hated returning to Number four, he owed it to the Dursleys to see to their safety since he was probably the reason why they were harmed. A sense of guilt washed through him. His knuckles shone white as he gripped the handle of the door tightly.
"Harry." He felt a hand grab his shoulder firmly.
His family had tried to persuade him that the detection of magic in Number Four did not necessary meant that the Dursley were hurt. Their earnest argument sounded weak to him.
"You could stay here while I'll check the place out as Padfoot. There isn't a reason for you to be here," retorted Sirius gruffly, his jaws clenched. He tunnelled a hand through his hair, expelling a sigh. The lines of his face relaxed slightly and his tone was gentler. "We could alert the DMLE to the discrepancies and allow them to check if there's foul play. Hermione—"
"She's always right," bristled Harry, scowling. "Hermione has made it clear why she disapproves of this decision and you don't have to remind me, Sirius." His hands balled into fists as he glared at the handle as if it had offended him.
Her absence bothered him. His row with Hermione was still fresh in his mind. He could still picture the bitter smile on her face after his girlfriend understood that they were at an impasse. Hermione had pleaded and begged with her eyes not to take things into his own hands but he couldn't acquiesce.
Hermione was so certain that it was trap lay by the Headmaster, although she wasn't too clear about the motivation of that ruse. The knowledge of tracking underage magic was one of those fiercely protected state secrets to construct a myth to thwart students from committing the crime. Based on the process, they narrowed their list of suspects to either a member of the Improper Use of Magic Office or the Headmaster.
The risks couldn't dissuade Harry from trying to unravel the truth behind the false accusation. Hermione, for once, couldn't comprehend the burning need for him to be involved.
Hermione, seeing the determined set of his chin, threw her hands up in frustration before storming upstairs to cool down. Quietly, he watched her go. The only sign that showed that Harry was equally upset was the rumpled parchment trapped in his fist.
Then, Sirius and Dan offered to escort him.
After a short discussion among the adults, Hermione and Emma decided to remain behind to contact Amelia about the apparent crime Harry had committed and gather more information.
Harry snapped out of his rumination and took a deep breath to centre himself. He blinked owlishly when Dan cut off the engine of the car.
"Dan?"
"Harry, I know that you don't take it too well to have an adult dissuade you from your decision. Sirius and I do not agree with you but we're concerned about your safety. We're not going to stop you. If we tell you to run, please listen to us."
"But didn't you promise Emma that you would act as the liaison?"
"Your safety is more important," answered Dan. "Either one of us can contact them via the mirror. Can you trust us to make the best decision for you?"
Harry found himself nodding his head, unable to turn down such a simple request from his guardian.
Dan and Sirius relaxed visibly. Did they think that he would protest against that decision? Was he behaving that badly?
"I'll transform into Padfoot,"volunteered Sirius, glancing outside of the window. "We're past the anti-apparition wards. The only reason we are here is to check the house for evidence of foul play. If there's a fight, leave it to me," briefed Sirius, staring at his godson.
Harry and Dan inclined their heads.
"I'll cover the rear," added Dan, grabbing a nondescript black flashlight from the glove compartment. It reminded him of the kind of flashlights security guards would usually carry.
Before their eyes, Sirius transformed into Padfoot.
Harry exited the car and allowed Padfoot to leap out of the ride. A cat loitering near the pavement caught Padfoot's attention. Behaving like a pet, Padfoot growled at the dark-coloured cat, with his hackles raised. With a loud hiss, the cat darted away. Satisfied, Padfoot bounded across the low garden wall and began surveying the area.
Harry recognised the cat at once. It was Mr Tibbles and he belonged to Mrs Figg, an old lady who used to babysit him whenever the Dursleys decided to go out.
"It's strange to see Mr Tibbles here," remarked Harry, keeping an eye on his godfather. The large dog disappeared for a moment to check the back of the house.
"Mr Tibbles?"enquired Dan.
"The cat. It belonged to an old woman living a few streets away," replied Harry, looking around the street. Aunt Petunia used to complain that the neighbours loved to watch them from their houses.
Padfoot loped from the other side of the house, completing a full circuit of Number four. He let a loud bark before trotting towards the main door of the house, signalling that it was safe for them to approach.
Harry walked to the mailbox and extracted the hidden key. The Dursley never bothered to give him a key to the house. His hands quivered and shook as he fumbled to open the door. With much effort, he managed to unlock the door. He pushed the door open, revealing a dark and quiet foyer.
The afternoon light casted deep shadows in the house, enshrouding the room in partial darkness. Harry could feel a chill in this room, as if the heat of the afternoon could not penetrate the room. He couldn't remember a time when the house was this still.
Padfoot dashed into the house and inspected every room, leaving Harry and Dan to wait at the main door.
"Aunt Petunia is usually at home," whispered Harry, his face ashen. He glanced around the room, as he balanced on the ball of his feet. His mind could not accept the dissonance between his memory of the place and the actual condition of the room. "It's unlike her to leave the house this messy." He noticed that some of the things were out of place. Aunt Petunia was very particular about the arrangement and order in her house.
Dan merely squeezed his shoulder with a firm hand.
Soon, Padfoot returned to them.
Fear clenched Harry's heart, seeing the urgency in his movement.
The large dog headed to the living room and started sniffing around the room as if he was following a trail. He leapt on the large couch, before climbing on the coffee table. Suddenly, he halted, his ears plastered on his skull as he snarled loudly.
Padfoot looked mad.
"What's wrong?"
Hastily, the large dog leapt off the coffee table and dashed for the exit.
"Padfoot?"questioned Harry, confused at his reaction.
"We need to keep up," announced Dan, following Sirius's lead.
Harry followed the two adults back to their ride. He noticed that the neighbour at Number three was peeking at them through their window. Mrs Number Three immediately hid behind the curtains when she spotted Harry looking at her.
"Please wait! Could I have a second?"
Nimbly, Harry jumped over the low garden wall and made way to the front door of that neighbour's house before Dan could stop him. He rapped on the door, pleading for the neighbour to speak to him.
Soon, the door opened slightly and he caught a narrow glimpse of the face of his neighbour. She was watching him cautiously behind her latched door.
It was natural that the neighbours would take precautions since Harry was the aberrant nephew who attended St Brutus's, after all.
Remembering his manners, he wore a friendly smile. "I'm Harry Potter, the nephew of Vernon Dursley, the family who lives across you? May I ask when did you last see any of my relatives? I told my uncle that I was returning today to celebrate the festival together." He scratched the back of his neck. "I was quite surprised to see the house empty."
Her distrustful eyes surveyed his clothes intently. The etched lines on her face relaxed slightly when the older woman noticed that Harry was dressed properly in a clean shirt and trousers.
Harry could hear Padfoot's impatient whine as the Animagus watched over the boundary of the anti-apparition ward. It wasn't beneficial for him to remain in this neighbourhood any longer. Inwardly, he hoped that she hurried in her answer.
Her voice was pitchy. "Yeah, I know you. You're that nephew." She relaxed on the doorframe. "Yesterday. There was an eccentric old man with a long white beard accompanying them to the car. He looked like a family friend because they were travelling together. I only paid attention due to his atrocious dressing. Can you believe it? He was dressed in an outlandish costume—some kind of robes in bright purple with stars—a fashion disaster."
His mind blanked.
Unconsciously, he backed away as thoughts began to swirl in his mind. It took him a second to realise that he needed a confirmation. "Does he wear a half-moon spectacle?"
The neighbour looked thoughtfully for a moment as she leaned on the side of the door. "I can't really see his glasses from here but I noticed that his nose was so crooked as if he had broken it several times."
His blood ran cold.
The neighbour picked up his panic from his countenance. "Did something happen to the Dursleys?" Her voice grew shrill. She gasped as she covered her mouth. "I watch those thriller sitcoms. Am I going to be interrogated by a bobby now?"
Harry held his hands up as he shook his head, trying to placate her. "No, I wanted to know if I needed to find for a place to stay." Harry plastered a smile that did not reach his eyes. "Thank you for speaking to me. I appreciate your time, Madam. "
The older woman nodded, satisfied with his answer, before disappearing back into her house.
Harry stepped away from the door, pressing a palm on his face.
"Harry?"
"We need to leave now," whispered Harry urgently, frowning, as if afraid that they would be overheard. He glanced around the street before breaking into a run in the direction of the black Mercedes. Padfoot remained on the lookout as he stood near the car.
Loud and rapid sounds of 'pop' caught all of their attention. Harry whipped his head to the direction of the sounds and spotted a squad of Magicals in black robes.
His heart clenched in fear. They were here for him.
Padfoot, with his hackles raised, barked loudly at their new adversaries.
The squad froze at the sight of the Grim.
"Hurry!" yelled Dan, putting more speed as he ran towards the car. Harry pushed himself to pick up speed as he tore down the path towards their ride.
Most of those men broke ranks to avoid Padfoot and closed in on them. Harry estimated there were about six of them at cursory glance. They yelled when they caught sight of Harry. Immediately, those wizards ejected their wands into their hands and tried to intercept them.
He resisted glancing around the neighbourhood to see if any of the neighbours were watching. Crap! Were these Magicals bloody idiots? They were on the street of a non-magical neighbourhood. The Oblivators would have a lot of work to do to maintain the secrecy of the magical world.
"Surrender your wands at once! Mr Harry Potter, you are convicted of committing underage magic. We're tasked to take you down and destroy your wand. Do not resist and come quietly with us," yelled one of the wizards gruffly, as the team trained their wands on Harry and Dan.
A shiver went down Harry's spine when he realised that the wizards were treating him like a fugitive.
One of them fired blasted a spell on the sidewalk inches away from them as a warning shot. It created a deep crater. Then, the squad tried to corner them.
Slowly, Harry and Dan lifted their hands into the air, keeping their eye on them.
"I don't possess a wand," returned Dan cordially. "Look, he's innocent—"
"Surrender your wand, Mr Potter. Don't make this difficult for you," returned the leader of the squad, his gaze steady on Harry.
Irritation spiked in Harry. They had ignored Dan simply because he wasn't a magical. The discrimination coupled with the injustice irked him. Harry took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. No, he couldn't be ruled by his emotions. He needed to maintain composure. They needed to get to Amelia before they carry out the sentence because Amelia could sort this out. He dropped into combative posture, contemplating the best move to get out of this sticky situation.
Harry slipped his hand into his pocket and reached for his wand.
"Harry, don't give them another chance," whispered Dan, keeping an eye on the hostile wizards.
While using magic for self-protection was legal, Harry wasn't too sure if they would exploit it and shackle him with a greater punishment. Harry glanced at his guardian and found him assessing the situation calmly. Assured, Harry withdrew his hand out of his pocket.
"At the count of three, surrender your wand or we'll attack. Three, two—"
The squad leader screeched in agony as he clutched his hand close to his chest. With a mighty spring, Padfoot had flown at the wizard and ripped his wand away from him. His blood sprayed across the pavement, surprising the rest of the squad.
Instantly, chaos broke out.
"Look out for the mutt!"
Several enraged Magicals tried to corner Padfoot with magic, firing a plethora of spells mercilessly. Intentionally, Padfoot tried to draw the hostile wizards away from the car and them. Nimbly, the Grim avoided the barrage of powerful spells with astounding finesse.
"Run!" ordered Dan, as he whipped his flashlight from his pocket and smashed it up the nose of a wizard. There was a satisfying 'crack' before blood splattered on the pavement. That wizard howled in pain as he shielded his nose. Without hesitation, Dan disarmed him by twisting his arm and shoving him to another wizard.
Both wizards crashed before collapsing in an unsightly pile.
Harry froze, wondering if he should heed Dan's words. Dan was merely a non-magical and he was at the disadvantage. However, the sight of Dan handling the fight convinced him that he really needed to do was to take care of himself.
A sudden howl of pain to his side alerted Harry that it wasn't safe for him to linger. Padfoot had torn another wand from another magical who tried to use magic to restraint Harry. Agilely, Padfoot landed on the pavement. He snapped the wand with his paw before he picked another unfortunate target.
"Break their wands and keep them down. They might be able to use wandless magic," yelled Harry as he avoided the colliding wizards and blood puddles nimbly. Gritting his teeth, he turned away and bolted for the ride.
Several wizards yelled for him to stop.
Harry zig-zagged towards the car, barely avoiding the different coloured hexes. Adrenaline pumped through his body as he focused on getting to the car uninjured. A spell screamed past his cheek as he continue running in a random pattern. He could hear a few wizards pursing him on foot, trying to stop him.
"Harry, watch out!"
The three wizards closed their ranks and fired stuns at him. A web of interlocking red spells dashed towards him, leaving Harry no room to manoeuvre.
He panicked for a moment. Thoughtlessly, Harry threw himself into the ground and broke into a forward roll—a skill he had just perfected the day before—allowing him to escape those spells unscathed.
Harry expelled the breath he was holding.
Dan soon caught up with them. He changed the grip on the flashlight and went into offensive. Without breaking his stride, he jabbed the flashlight up the nose of one of the wizards swiftly, breaking his nose before sweeping the leg of the second wizard. The first wizard howled in pain as he grabbed his nose as blood spattered on the sidewalk. The other wizard was on the ground, groaning in pain.
When the third wizard tried to hit him with another spell, Dan entered into the personal space of the attacker and blinded the wizard temporary, causing the wizard to shrieked in pain as he covered his eyes. Smoothly, Dan snapped his wand with the heel of his foot before tossing the wizard on his comrades.
Dan swept his fringe away from his forehead as he dug into his pocket for the keys.
"Take the keys." Dan tossed the keys upwards in the large arc, before ducking another wizard's pathetic two-hand grab. Effortlessly, he threw him on the ground with an elegance that took Harry's breath. Dan followed that action by thrusting the flashlight on the assailant's face. He bent at the waist before he drove the butt of the torch up the chest of one of the wizards who approached him from behind. The second wizard howled in pain as he fell on the ground like a felled tree.
It was clear that these wizards had underestimated Dan, giving him the advantage to incapacitate them. In rapid succession, Dan disabled three of the wizards. He snapped all their wands after rendering them unconscious.
"Accio keys!" yelled another wizard. The black dog pinned him down as Harry dived for the keys. With nimble reflexes, Harry caught the keys mid-air and broke out into a full sprint.
"He's getting away!"
Blooded pounded in his ears as his feet pounded the gravel ground. His muscles burned with exertion as he focused on staying unhurt. Stray spells occasionally passed him but the two adults kept them busy.
It gave him pockets of time to get into the car. Thoughtlessly, he started the car and the engine roared into life.
That was the signal to the adults to make their retreat.
Their assailants caught on to their plan and started to regroup themselves for a final attempt to prevent Harry from escaping. Left without a choice, both adults continued their tactic of delaying the squad.
Harry felt useless as he watched the adults attempt to secure a fighting chance for escape. He could barely see them since the squad of wizards swallowed them.
All he could do was to wait with bated breath. Harry hated every second of it.
Gary grumbled to himself as he exited from his ride and strode towards his workplace. He was one of the unfortunate souls who needed to come in early on Good Friday to ensure that all the paperwork for the Crown Prosecutor was ready since he did not want to return to office on Easter.
The glass windows of the station reflected the brilliant and warmth rays of the sunrise. Gary had to shield his eyes with a hand as he approached the building. Immediately, his gaze settled on a figure waiting outside the station when he surveyed his surroundings.
His eyes widened when he recognised the person. It was Mr Vernon Dursley, the accused. What blazes was he doing here?
The officer squinted at him as the huge man lumbered towards him. It was clear that Mr Dursley was waiting for him.
The haze in his mind cleared away as he became alert. He was in a terrible position since he was alone.
"Good morning, officer. May I have a bit of your time?" asked Mr Dursley brusquely as the wind ruffled his hair. For once, the whale of a man did not look as well-kempt since his clothes were rumpled.
Instinctively, Gary reached for his weapon on his hip discreetly. Something felt out of place. There was something strange about the way Vernon Dursley was staring at him. That man was spitting and hurling insults at him for interfering with his domestic issue when he saw him the last time. However, there was no fury in his beady eyes.
"We've nothing to talk about, Mr Dursley," returned Gary smoothly, keeping a close eye on the other man as he inched towards the area where there were surveillance cameras.
Vernon approached him calmly despite the warning. "I'm well aware of that. I'm not here for the case." The huge man was staring at him intently, as if he was reading his thoughts.
"What—"
The officer regretted the decision immediately. Easily, Vernon leaned in, plucking a hair from his hair and attaching an object to his crumpled sports jacket. Immediately, he felt an uneasy feeling of something hooking on his navel before his vision blurred and changed.
Before Vernon's eyes, the officer disappeared.
Nonchalantly, Vernon added the hair into a vial he was carrying before he shook it. He entered a washroom of the café opposite the station as Vernon Dursley and exited as the place as Gary. The clothes of Vernon Dursley was tailored to fit the smaller build of the officer. Absently, he straightened his clothes before he headed into the station, keeping his head down. It was time to alter some pertinent information.
His head throbbed slight as he tried to wrap his mind around the situation.
A barrage of questions flooded his mind as he tried to make sense of the situation unfolding before his eyes. Who were they? They were definitely from the Ministry.
How did they get here so fast? It seemed almost improbable that the Ministry learnt of their presence so quickly.
Harry dabbed away the perspiration formed on his forehead as he kept an eye on the adults. He felt almost helpless since he couldn't use magic.
Padfoot had withdrawn and joined Dan in disabling the remaining wizards. They battled with a fatal beauty that took Harry's breath away. It was a treat watching them work together.
Harry frowned when he realised that Dan and Padfoot were not dealing enough damage to disable the squad of wizards. They were like weeds since they had a startling tenacity to complete their mission. Harry wasn't sure why Dan or Sirius were employing more lethal methods in taking their attackers down when their assailants seemed to be fighting with everything they had.
Most of them joined the fray after healing themselves of the superficial wounds that Dan or Padfoot had inflicted upon them. However, it was clear that none of these wizards could easily overlook the pain either of them had the capacity to inflict on them. Their fear slowed them considerably even though they began to use more advance and lethal spells.
Once, Padfoot was nearly hit by a Reducto. Large craters sprinkled the pavement as Padfoot ducked those powerful spells. There were wounds on his body from the cutting spells.
To Harry's amazement, some of the superficial incisions healed on Padfoot's body healed before his eyes.
Harry had to do something besides watching them. He stared at the steering wheel and gear. Driving a normal car must not be too different from driving a flying one. Gritting his teeth, he slipped to the driver's seat.
Padfoot barked twice—a signal asking Dan to retreat—before attacking the wizard that Dan was fighting. Dan nodded at him before retreating to the car. Keeping his eye on his enemy, he backed off to the car. However, the relentless wizards pursued him. Padfoot loyally protected his flank as he commenced another round of attack. With a loud growl, he attacked another wizard who tried to injure Dan, learning that Dan must be instrumental to Harry's escape.
That wizard looked terrified when the large and ferocious dog pinned him on the ground. His razor-like teeth punctured his arm and blood began to flow freely. "Get the Mutt off! Get the Mutt Off!" The other wizard attempted to rescue him by trying to hit Padfoot with a spell. Easily, Padfoot danced away before he commenced another quick attack.
Harry leaned forwards so that one of his feet was on the accelerator, and the other on the clutch. It couldn't be too difficult. He had seen Dan did this a few times. Besides, he had helped Ron to drive that flying car. All he needed to do was to drive it forward.
Despite Sirius's efforts, Dan could not shake off his pursuers. One of them was clever enough to direct the offensive spells at the car.
Harry had no choice but to move the car immediately.
Without hesitation, Harry slammed his foot on the accelerator. The car roared into life and dashed forward, deflecting one of the spells that one of the wizards was aiming on the tires of the car.
Harry's eyes widened when he realised that the solid metal body of the car could act as a shield against hexes. Quickly, he formulated a new plan.
Dan hastily sidestepped as Harry slammed on the brake suddenly and held tight.
Several 'thud's sounds were heard as the car skidded into a stop between their enemies and Dan.
The car deflected the hexes that they had fired back at them and the wizards had to conjure shields to protect themselves.
Harry expelled a breath when he managed to stay on his seat. The force from the stop nearly flung him out of his seat.
Dan threw the door to the driver's seat open before sliding in while Harry scooted to the passenger seat. His face was beetroot red from exertion but he could still focus. Beads of perspiration were on his forehead. Easily, Dan moped them away with the back of his hand. There were several gnashes from his fight.
"Thanks," panted Dan as he caught his breath.
Now, they needed to get Sirius.
Noticing the furrow of concentration on Dan's brow, Harry immediately buckled himself. He had learnt his lesson.
Dan jerked the gear into reverse and slammed the accelerator with his foot. "Buckle up," panted Dan, checking the rear mirror.
The engine roared loudly as the car shot backwards as he swerved. It slammed on something solid. "That's one," grinned Dan wickedly, punching the air in victory. "These hardy and pesky creatures." Dan instantly jerked the gear back to gear one as Harry threw the back door open for his godfather.
Some of the wizards were getting to their feet clumsily and they were the only obstacle to their freedom.
Padfoot leapt into the car as he transformed into Sirius. "Get us out of here, Dan." He slammed the door shut as he ejected his wand and crawled up the seat to keep an eye on their enemies.
"Hold tight," warned Dan, gripping the steering wheel with both hands tightly.
Without a warning, Dan slammed on the accelerator again. The car dashed down the road towards the line of wizards standing in the middle of the street. The human barricade could only stare numbly at them as the car speeded towards them.
The metal body of the car deflected most of the spells they had fired rapidly.
Inches before the impending crash, the barricade of wizards disappeared.
Sirius let out a loud whooped of joy when Dan finally got away from Privet Drive into the expressway. The wizards couldn't follow them into this unchartered territory. Using his wand, Sirius checked the vehicle for any tracking spells. He grinned from ear to ear when he found the car clean.
"Ha, take that, imbeciles! What in Merlin's name did you use to fight those Hit-wizards, Dan?" yelled Sirius, grabbing the headrest of the driver's seat. "That was awesome!"
"It's a tactical flashlight," explained Dan, tossing the flashlight back at him. "Be careful with the buttons, it's used to blind the attacker." With a hand, Dan switched the radio on.
Sirius looked in awe at the simple device. "It's more effective at night then? You blind the attacker before you slam it into the attacker's face for maximum damage?"
"Or you could use it as a weapon," returned Dan.
Sirius whistled loudly. "Am will be pissed though. Those were Hit-wizards. It's not the protocols to send a squad of hit-wizards to retrieve a delinquent. Good work, Dan!"
"Hit-wizards? Aren't they trained in combative magic? "asked Harry, staring at his godfather with the side mirror.
Sirius's face darkened. "You're right, Harry. They're deployed whenever there is an attack, though I think they're more accustomed to magical combat rather than physical fighting. I don't understand why they're deployed instead of the usual squad from Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes. It seemed as if they knew that you were here." Sirius looked pensive. "I was quite sure we did not trip any of the wards."
Harry's mind drifted to Mr Tibbles for a moment. The cat was obviously monitoring Number four. He shrugged the idea off, seeing the absurdity of the notion that Mr Tibbles might have alerted someone to their presence. "There were magical wards?" questioned Harry.
Sirius nodded. "Two kinds. An abnormally powerful ward, which strengthens with your presence, besides the usual wards to prevent others from apparating near Number Four. Then, there is another ward placed around the property by the Ministry as a standard procedure. Any use of magic around the perimeters of the house will activate that alarm. I made sure we didn't trigger the alarm."
He nodded absently as his tired mind wandered to the revelation he had while speaking to Mrs Number three. "It was the Headmaster who kidnapped the Dursleys." He rubbed the bridge of his nose.
"I know," hissed Sirius, leaning into his seat. "There was the scent of the hypocrite in the living room. There was no other foreign scent in house."
His heart sank as he contemplated voicing his concerns. "Do you think he killed them?" He couldn't believe that the headmaster would sink so low.
Sirius shook his head. "No, I don't think so. A killing spell would linger." He directed the conversation to Dan. "We'll need to alert that non-magical Auror friend of yours. The Headmaster is an accomplished mind reader. I'm afraid he might have extracted information from them." Sirius swept the wet locks away from his face as he whipped out the pocket mirror from his pocket of his trousers.
"Taking Gary out of the equation wouldn't change anything," remarked Dan, looking confused. "Emma and I are Harry's legal guardians."
Sirius did a one shoulder-shrug. "The headmaster is too politically powerful in our society. He must have a plan to revert Harry's guardianship. After the fall of Voldemort, the headmaster managed to get the Wizengamot to pass a law to prevent magical families from taking in orphan with similar circumstances to Harry for their safety. If he wanted, I'm sure he could persuade the Wizengamot to make your guardianship of Harry illegal, after he got rid of important information." He called Emma to inform them of their findings.
His stomach churned at the thought. He didn't want to have another death attributed to him. Harry turned away to watch the passing scenery.
The conversation between Dan and Sirius was halted when Emma picked up the call. A frantic-looking Emma appeared on the mirror. Her anxiety abated when Sirius passed the mirror around so that she could ascertain that they were all right.
"Can you get hold of that officer friend of yours and anyone who knows that Harry is your ward?"
Emma passed the message on to Hermione, who was sitting next to her.
Harry's stomach lurched at the thought that his girlfriend was an invisible participant to the conversation.
The disembodied voice of Hermione informed them that she could not reach Amelia by the mirror before she left the room to contact Mr Tonks and Gary.
Emma informed them that there was another letter from the Ministry for Harry and confirmed that Vernon Dursley had been missing for more than a day. A colleague at Grunnings told her that Harry's uncle had left the office earlier the day before due to a family emergency and did not account for his absence at office for the day.
Discreetly, Sirius watched Harry's expression. The teenager looked grim when he heard the news.
Sirius concluded the conversation by informing Emma their ETA.
The conversation between Sirius and Dan continued as if it was uninterrupted.
"We'll need to make a trip to the Ministry?" questioned Dan, frowning.
It was, however, Harry who answered the question. "It's necessary. We need to iron this mess out, lest we risk more casualties. We must find a way of getting to the Ministry." He closed his eyes for a moment, trying to forget the sight of blood colouring the grey pavement.
"I don't think we need to worry about it. The office must be aware of the discrepancies. The letter is usually dispatched immediately. It's too coincidental that a squad of hit-wizards were sent there while we were checking the place out," remarked Sirius, folding his arms. There was a frown on his face as if he might have an inking how the Ministry learnt of their presence.
Dan hesitated for a moment. "Sirius, can we trust Amelia? The Hit-wizards take orders from her right?"
The soothing and soft music playing in the car filled the uncomfortable silence.
"You shouldn't question her loyalty. The vow she made with Gaston prevents her from doing so. Besides, I trust Amelia with my life." He met Dan's gaze through the rear mirror.
"Thank you. I needed the assurance. We have a lot at stake," returned Dan easily, with a small smile on his face.
Sirius nodded since he understood Dan's need for caution. He turned to look out of the window at the passing scenery, signalling a temporary end to the conversation.
Noticing that Harry was quiet, Dan checked on him from the peripherals of his vision. The teenager looked very tense as if he was close to an explosion, his hands balled into fists.
"I don't get it. Why would the Headmaster do everything to maintain control over me? It doesn't make sense for him to be so involved in a student's life! He is involved with the disappearance of the Dursleys." He slammed his hands on the dashboard.
Neither of the adults knew what to say.
"Pup, I think you should really listen to the prophecy soon. It might contain an answer for you," responded Sirius softly. He squeezed his shoulder gently, trying to comfort him.
Harry turned away, knowing that his godfather was right. Unconsciously, he had deferred unveiling the prophecy because he knew it would shatter the illusion of peace and normality. However, he couldn't adjourn it any longer, considering the circumstances. There were far too many questions and too little answers.
He was suddenly conscious of the lyrics of the song playing in the background. It reverberated in his mind.
"No turning back, no turning back…" (1)
The Granger womenfolk met them at the garage when they had returned from their trip. They wore worried expressions as they waited impatiently for Dan to park the black Mercedes.
Emma frowned when she saw the potholes and dents on the body of the car. It was clear that they had just escaped a tough battle.
The fading adrenaline made Dan realised that he did not escape the fighting unharmed. With more effort, Dan alighted from the vehicle since he had sprained his back. Emma immediately supported a wincing Dan, looking concerned. "Harry, I placed the letter on your desk. It's good to see you well." She kissed him on the cheek. Carefully, she helped Dan upstairs so that he could rest in bed.
Before guilt could settle in, he nearly fell from Hermione's tackle. His lips curled into a small smile when Hermione bolted into him, embracing him in a bone-crushing hug. He squeezed her with equal fervour, allowing her presence to soothe him despite the aching body.
"I was so worried," murmured Hermione into his neck.
"I'm fine now," assured Harry, savouring their closeness. Suddenly, Hermione stiffened in his arms. "Mione?" The speed in which she put distance between them made Harry blinked in confusion. His bemusement faded away when he spotted her clenched jaw and the furrow between her brows. Harry grimaced when he realised that she was still angry with him.
He was attacked by a wave of remorse when he spotted the broken skin on her bottom lip since he didn't like to be the reason of Hermione's anxiety. Subconsciously, he nearly reached over to sooth that skin. He resisted that action when he noticed that Hermione was ignoring him. Resigned, he stuffed his hands into his pocket as he watched her.
Hermione turned her attention to Sirius. "Do you need help with that injury, Sirius?"
Sirius shook his head when he met her gaze. "I'll be fine. I just need a good run as Padfoot since my regenerative abilities are enhanced in that state." He squeezed Harry's shoulder with his good hand as he stood behind him. "Harry, why don't you update Hermione on—"
"Oh. That's not necessary. I must check on Daddy." Hastily, Hermione headed upstairs, without casting a backward glance at her boyfriend.
Harry's shoulders sagged as he watched her depart.
"So, she's still mad at me," commented Harry, running his hand through his hair. His heart sank at the thought. She had every reason to be. Guilt filled him when he recalled the injuries of Dan and Sirius.
"Apologise to her. Placate her. It helps if you grab a bath first," encouraged Sirius cheerfully. "You reek," teased Sirius.
Harry could barely smile at his teasing. "Thank you, Sirius. You've been very supportive," replied Harry. Beneath his throbbing sense guilt, he was touched at his godfather's relentless support. It filled him with warmth, driving away his weighty shame. "I'm sorry. We could have avoided these injuries if we—"
"Don't say that. It was my choice to do this for you. You're my godson. I couldn't possibly allow you to go alone or get hurt." His eyes reflected his commitment to Harry's welfare. Paternally, Sirius squeezed Harry's shoulder as a small smile appeared on his face. "We're a family."
Tears stung Harry's eyes. He didn't deserve such kindness or devotion. "But—"
Sirius sighed. "You could learn to trust us a bit more. I know you're not used to have an adult looking out for you. Dan , Emma and I really want the best for you."
The truth sank into him, leaving him almost in awe. "I-I'll try." He lowered his head, staring at his shoes.
Playfully, Sirius tousled Harry's hair. "That's good enough. I'm going for a run before I rummage the potion labs for a potion for that old man upstairs." He jerked his thumb upwards, a grin on his face.
Harry returned a small smile. "Have a fun time running around."
Sirius hobbled out of the garage so that he could transform into Padfoot, leaving Harry alone in the garage.
Absently, Harry ran his hand across the dents on the body of the car, as he considered what to do. Sirius's advice had not failed him yet. Obeying his godfather, he jogged upstairs to grab a quick shower.
The shower revealed all the wounds on his body since they stung under the pounding water. He didn't realised that he had scraped both of his knees. Ugly bruises blossomed on his skin, a testament of his adrenaline-pumping encounter. He felt miserable that he was the least hurt among the three of them.
Harry sighed loudly, letting the warm water pound on his skin. He realised he had to stop behaving so recklessly. He had a family to think of, a family that was willingly to go to the ends of the world for him. Absently, he reached for the knob to turn off the shower when he felt clean.
He needed to accept that he had a new life, one with infinite possibilities, and stopped living as that Harry Potter, the orphan whose remaining family rejected and hated him.
After dressing up, he stepped out of his bathroom. Towelling his hair dry, he spotted the letter on his desk next to the pile of books. It was a letter from the office of Improper Magic. An opened letter from Ron lay next to it. It was clear that Hermione had read the letter. Harry frowned when he realised that the office of Improper Office had recant the sentence due to the discrepancies and invited him for an interview at the Ministry. They had also included a portkey.
Harry sighed as he dropped into his chair and his muscles groaned. It didn't make sense. If the office had recanted their decision, why did the hit-wizards came after him? Did they know of the disappearance of Dursleys? Absently, he glanced through the letter of Ron. Ron's letter wasn't very informative since it just updated them on the new happenings in school.
It felt almost a lifetime ago that he was still in Hogwarts, worrying about the Triwizard competition. He considered answering his letter after he discussed with Hermione about what they wanted to update him. The frown on his face deepened when he remembered their fight. Harry expelled a sigh, getting to his feet.
He halted when he spotted Emma watching him. To his surprise, she was dressed in blue robes.
"Why are you in robes, Emma?"
Emma frowned when she noticed that he was hobbling. "Wait here, Harry." She fetched a first aid kit and directed Harry to sit on the edge of his bed so that she could tend to his injuries.
"Erm, there is really no need for it," protested Harry. "It's a minor injury."
Emma silenced him with a look.
Resigned, Harry obeyed her and allowed her to tend to his wounds. She disinfected his wound before peppering a powder-like substance to aid with the recovery of the wound.
"How's Dan?"
"He's sleeping after he took some potions to relieve his pain. All he needs is rest. He's not getting any younger." Despite the disapproving look on her face, Harry could detect a tenderness lacing her tone.
Harry was relieved to hear that. "Are you planning to visit the Ministry with me? I just received an invitation from the office of Improper Magic. They included a portkey."
"Lovely. I'm glad that we have an invitation. I was worried how we were going to clear up the issue after the fight."
"I doubt the squad who tried to arrest me knew that the office was reviewing their decision."
"Oh? Inefficiency of bureaucracy or is there another reason?"
Harry rolled his shoulders in a shrug. He shifted nervously as he lowered his head. "Emma, I know it's not my place to say this. Dan and Sirius had no choice but to fight, the hit-wizards did not want to listen."
Emma pursed her lips. "I know. Dan doesn't condone violence." A small smile appeared on her face. "You're sweet. Thank you for defending Dan." She patted his hand gently.
He blushed at the praise.
"Anyway, do you want some time to rest or do you want to go to the Ministry now?"
Harry was glad for a change of subject. "I'm feeling fine. Should we alert the Sirius and Hermione? I shall fetch him." He rose to his feet.
Emma stopped him by putting her hand on his shoulder. "Hermione's in her room. You'll feel better after both of you resolve your differences. Trust me on this. Change into your robes. I'll inform Sirius."
Harry rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed that Emma could read him so easily. He agreed to her suggestion.
He limped out of his room to hers. The door to Hermione's room was open, an invitation for anyone to enter. He rapped on the door politely and waited for an answer. It was strange since he would usually waltz in.
Hermione was sitting in the crook by the window, looking distantly out of the window. It ached to see her looking so lost. Hermione invited him to enter, an emotionless mask on her face. Her jaws clenched when she spotted him hobble towards her.
"Emma has already attended to my wound," answered Harry easily, trying to sooth her. "I scraped my knees. It's nothing serious."
The worry in her eyes dulled.
Harry scratched his head, wondering where he should sit. Finally, he chose to sit in her office chair, putting him directly opposite from Hermione.
Hermione maintained an impassive countenance and did not comment about his choice of seat.
Unconsciously, he rubbed the back of his neck as he contemplated his words. His mouth opened to speak but he couldn't voice his thoughts. Uneasy silence stretched between them as Harry gaze at his girlfriend.
A tinge of irritation filled him at his inability to be transparent with Hermione.
It was clear that Hermione did not intend to help him. She folded her hands, an elegant and formal gesture, placing them neatly in her lap as she looked at him.
He couldn't stand the silence or the emotion distance Hermione had maintained with her formal hauteur.
Harry swallowed visibly. "Mione, I'm sorry."
The tension in the bedroom abated.
Hermione sighed as her forehead wrinkled and creased. "It's okay. I'm glad you're alright, Harry."
Harry reached to take her hands with his. He was glad when she relaxed visibly at his touch. "No, I'm really sorry for hurting you. I was an insensitive git—"
"But, you were right. The Dursleys are indeed in danger," answered Hermione. "We don't know what has happened to them."
Harry shook his head vehemently. "No, you were right. The Headmaster was responsible for it. It was a trap. I should have left it to the Ministry to handle. There's very little we could do," admitted Harry earnestly. It was a lesson he needed to learn. There were situations where he needed a cool head.
Hermione's gaze turned gentle. She picked up his hand with hers and began to draw patterns on his exposed palm.
"Sirius updated me when I checked on him. He could have tracked them down but he couldn't do it then. The fight with the hit wizards made it imperative that all of you leave that neighbourhood," explained Hermione. She released his hand and scooted to the side, creating some space for Harry to join him.
A smile appeared on Harry's face. Instantly, he sat next to her. His world righted itself with her next to him. "I should have listened to you. It was an unnecessary risk and I should monitor my hero-complex." He grimaced. "It's different from being in Hogwarts."
"Sirius and Dan don't blame you for their injuries," returned Hermione, leaning her head on his shoulder.
"I know." He frowned. "They did it willingly. It blows my mind away."
She expelled a breath before she patted his forearm. "They love you."
It seemed as if that love was the only legitimate reason to risk their lives. It was strange that rational Hermione would not consider it a flaky reason.
Hermione dipped her head, as if she was upset.
"Harry, I'm sorry for being so hard on you. I regretted my decision the moment Daddy drove you away. I have never allowed you to traipse into danger without me—"
"—You shouldn't be—"
She held her hand up.
"—let me finish my apology, Harry. No matter how much I may disagree with you, I should never let you go without me. We're always stronger together. I should have stayed so that we could have negotiated and reach a consensus but I should never allow you to face anything alone. For escaping like a coward, I'm sorry. "
His heart swelled with gratitude for his girlfriend. The corner of his lips lifted in a smile. "Can I speak now?"
Hermione nodded and gestured airily for him to continue, her cheeks pink.
He clasped her hand. "You had nothing to apologise. I'm glad you didn't. We were outnumbered. It was really by the Hitwizard's oversight and luck that we managed to escape. You know, Dan was awesome. " There was a gleam of admiration in his eyes when he mentioned Dan.
Hermione mirrored his smile. "Daddy was my hero until you came along. Honestly, I don't really understand why you came to rescued me in our first year. I was obnoxious—"
Harry silenced her by putting a finger on her lips. "You were afraid that you couldn't fit in. You were new to the magical society and very different. I'm glad I did, otherwise I would have died countless times."
Hermione flashed a self-depreciating smile. "There would always be someone who could help you."
"No," rebutted Harry in a tone that brooked no argument. "I wouldn't have this if it wasn't for you. I can't quite imagine how I could survive till my fourth year without you."
Hermione smiled. "I can't quite imagine not being with you, Harry." She squeezed his hand as she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Harry?"
Harry gazed at her enquiringly.
"You're not feeling guilty about your relatives right?"
Harry sighed, tunnelling his hand into his hair. "I can't hide anything from you, can I? I'm worried that I'll be the reason for more casualties."
Her brows scrunched into a frown. "But, it's not your fault, Harry."
His eyes widened slightly at her answer. "How is it not mine?"
"It isn't your fault," repeated Hermione calmly, looking at him. "It's the aggressor's. Do you think that your parents are at fault for dying and leaving you at the Dursleys?"
Harry blinked owlishly before shaking his head. "No, I blame the Headmaster and Voldemort." Though he meant what he said, something wasn't quite right. He was conscious of the weight of his albatross.
Hermione squeezed his hand tenderly, comforting him. Her eyes shone with understanding, as if she knew that the reason for his guilt wasn't that simple.
He shut his eyes, drawing strength from her as he explored the reason for his guilt.
"I'm afraid," admitted Harry, finally. "I guess that I'm afraid that in my own quest for freedom and happiness, I have caused harm to befall on others."
Tears welled up in Hermione's eyes.
Immediately, Harry wrapped his arms around her. "I'm sorry, I didn't…"
A finger on his lips silenced him. Hermione blinked her tears away as her arms winded around him tightly. "There isn't a need to apologise. You just reminded me that you're insecure about the security and contentment you experienced in this break. I should be more aware since I know your past."
He squeezed her tenderly before drawing away.
"You deserve to be happy, Harry," reminded Hermione. "Don't forget that."
He swallowed visibly and nodded, seeing the intensity of her feelings in her eyes.
Hermione's tone grew teasing. "I won't stand for dating a bloke who mopes all the time or doesn't consider his own safety. You know, you could have called the Dursleys instead of checking the place out personally."
It took a while for her suggestion to hit home. His mouth made an 'o' shape. "Um…That really didn't occur to me," returned Harry sheepishly, rubbing the back of his head. "The trip is not entirely fruitless though."
Hermione shook her head in part incredulity and amusement.
Harry merely lifted her hand and pressed his lips on her knuckles tenderly. "I'll, however, endeavour to meet your expectations. You deserve to have your wish fulfilled." He winked at her.
Hermione could barely stop the smile from stretching across her face. "I know you will."
The mirth in her eyes was replaced with sincerity. For a moment, Harry was floored by her faith in him. Warmth blossomed in his chest as he gazed into her eyes. He was conscious of the way his heart was pounding violently in his chest. For a moment, everything made sense to him. He knew why he was feeling that way. His hands, a dichotomy of his penetrating gaze, stroked her cheeks with feathery caress. Harry's voice was husky and low."Mione, I—"
"Kids, are you ready?"
"Merlin, I was supposed to tell you that we're heading to the Ministry!" Harry leapt on his feet.
Hermione blinked in surprise. "Ministry?" It took a while for her to register it. Her cheeks were slightly red.
"Yea, I forgot to tell you that the Ministry sent me a portkey. We need to change into robes." Panic laced his tone.
"Oh. OH!" Quickly, she dashed to her closet to find her robes while Harry returned to his bedroom to change.
Due to their haste, the teenagers forgot about their conversation as they rushed to meet Emma and Sirius. Using the portkey, they travelled to the Ministry, leaving Dan alone with their pets.
Unknown to them, a visitor decided to visit the Grangers after they had portkeyed to the Ministry. Whistling, Dumbledore pressed the doorbell of the Grangers and waited for a response. He patted his pocket, where the letter from Madam Hopkirk was contained. Fawkes had refused to transport him into Grangers' residence, choosing to disappear in a flash of light.
Dumbledore knew that Gaston was not in England, thus he reasoned that he did not need to inform the French Duc of his impending visit. His business was urgent, thus justifying the lack of a courtesy call. If he was honest with himself, he was worried about the involvement of the French Duke in their politics. He heard whispers of how adept he was in politics. The French Duc was a wild card. He didn't quite understand why Gaston would form an alliance with both the Blacks and the Potters, rather than simply the Potters.
Perhaps, Gaston was trying to make inroads into British politics by securing the support of two influential houses from both camps. However, it did not make sense. The alliance was made when Sirius was still on the run. Perhaps, he was trying to curtail the rising influence of the Malfoys by giving Sirius the protection of his name. By entering into an alliance, Sirius could choose to be a free man in France.
Dumbledore stroked his long beard. He understood that there wasn't a purpose in speculating.
Everything was working according to plan. He managed to kidnap the officer in charge of Harry's case and changed most of the pertinent information. Officially, the Dursleys did not need to face charges of child abuse.
Dumbledore nearly threw up when he read the evidence gathered. It had to be an exaggeration. Arabella Figg did not report anything of this sort. Besides, Petunia was Harry's aunt. She couldn't allow Harry to be abused by her husband. For the greater good, he had to ignore the minor offences. He would place more wards and instruments of surveillance in Number four Privet Drive when everything was over.
The only flaw in his plan was that the Hit-wizards did not arrest Harry. Dumbledore wanted to use that to his favour by offering his assistance.
His mind drifted to Hermione, his best friend. He was staring to be worried about the amount of time he was spending with the girl. She was too intelligent to be persuaded to join his cause. Besides, the problem started because he had decided to stay with Hermione over the Easter holidays. He needed to find a way to drive a wedge between Harry and Hermione to curtail her influences on him.
The Headmaster used the time to consider ways on how he could win the hearts of Sirius and Harry, although he did not realise that neither of them would be inclined to trust him again.
The Headmaster waited patiently by the gate, wondering why no one had answered the bell. He glanced around him, noticing that the street was empty. He could afford to wait for a while longer. He paced back and forth before the gate, indulging himself in his rumination. After a while, he checked his wristwatch and noticed that he had been waiting for some time.
The leader of the Light paused before the gate again. Fudge would probably need him to deal with the media fallout and give a new direction for the DMLE to follow. He hesitated for a moment. He needed to maintain his influence with the Minister. However, this concerned his plan in ending Voldemort for good.
The Minister would have to wait a while longer.
After pacing back and forth before the gate, the Headmaster decided to return to Hogwarts. He would visit the Grangers the next day after he concluded his business with Fudge. The headmaster did not noticed that a small beetle, which had clung to the edge of his brightly-coloured robe, flying away when he reluctantly made his way to the apparition point at the end of the street. It had attached itself to his clothes since morning.
Without hesitation, that tiny beetle flew past the gate into the silent grounds of the residence. It whizzed around the place, finding a new target to survey. It did not notice the presence of an owl and a half-Kneazle until it was too late.
The Hunter became the Hunted.
The owl swooped from its positions, nearly catching the beetle with its sharp talons. It was only by chance of luck that the beetle avoided those talons. Immediately, the pursuit began. The skilful hunter went after the beetle with its sharp talons and beak, causing the beetle to dart around in panic.
So absorbed the beetle was of dodging the owl's attacks, it barely paid attention to the hunter prowling on the ground, its gaze locked on the target.
The majestic and magnificent predator, swooping and moving gracefully in the air, spelt trouble for the trespassing beetle.
The beetle couldn't comprehend why the owl was so stubborn in its pursuit. Didn't owls eat rats? The beetle did not know that its incriminating behaviour had encouraged the chase. The sound of talons whizzing pass encouraged the beetle to beat its wings faster.
However, it was unable to shake its chaser off.
Desperately, the beetle performed acrobatic aerial feats in a feeble attempt to escape from its hunter. From afar, it spotted a small hole on the window of the house. Quickly, it prepared itself to dive into the hole.
The beetle knew that it could make it to safety. It was the only option it had left to avoid the predator.
However, the beetle was outwitted. It was the intention of the owl to drive it towards that hole. A flash of orange appeared suddenly and it wacked the beetle. Painfully, the beetle crashed on the wall, fell on the grass, and lost conscious.
Nimbly, Crookshanks padded towards their prey. Using its keen senses, the half-Kneazle found the unconscious beetle. Under the watchful eyes of Hedwig, he picked up the beetle with his mouth and lumbered towards the Granger's house. Hedwig quickly winged into the other house to search for a vessel to hold the beetle.
They met in the living room of the Granger's home. Both pets noticed that their humans never entertained guests at the other house, thus their selection of location.
Displaying her sense of humour, the beautiful owl brought a jar of crushed beetles to Crookshanks. He got to work immediately. He sat on his hind legs, freeing his front paws. With some difficulty, the half- kneazle opened the jar and stuffed their prey into the jar before shutting it.
It was highly doubtful if those crushed beetles could be used as potion ingredients after coming into contact with a spit-covered beetle, but the pets did not care.
She had other reasons in selecting that jar. The Snowy owl was quite certain that that jar was one of those jars she had spotted her humans practise their unbreakable spells on: she had witnessed Harry test the jar by dropping it on the ground after casting the spell.
Hedwig barked gleefully, satisfied with their work. It was a testimony of their well-honed hunting skills and instinct. All they needed to do was to either wait for the humans to return or Dan to wake up. They settled on one of the crouch and waited. Experienced predators valued patience especially when their patience was usually rewarded with tasty treats.
To their surprise, Madam Hopkirk merely interrogated Harry and checked his wand. She was satisfied with both of the results since they cleared him of the charges. "Director Bones ordered an investigation into the matter, the results are consistent with our findings, Mr Potter is innocent."
"Investigation?" prompted Emma, looking confused. She did not understand the difference in attitude.
"Yes, the office had checked what kind of magic was used in the place. It was a spell beyond Mr Potter's level of magic."
Sirius folded his arms as he frowned.
A gleam of interest appeared in Hermione's eyes. "Does that mean that this office is able to retrieve details of the magic used?"
Madam Hopkirk's eyes darted to her. She held her gaze for a moment. "There are certain conditions required for the office to do that. One of those conditions is that one of our officers has to be there to confirm the effects of the spell."
"What kind of officers?" questioned Sirius, leaning forward slightly. He steepled his hands as he met the gaze of Madam Hopkirk directly. From the stiff way Sirius held himself, it was clear that he wasn't too happy.
The witch looked almost affronted at the question. "Why, the usual team from Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes. The Accidental Magic Reversal Squad needed to check if they need to deal with the situation since it involved Muggles."
The furrow on Sirius's brow deepened.
"It was dispatched immediately?"
Madam Hopkirk checked her notes. "Yes."
The laconic answer indicated that she was getting irritated with Sirius's protectiveness.
"So, the office cannot accurately deduce the origins of that magic?" clarified Hermione, crossing her legs. She ignored the way Harry was drawing patterns on her hand. "Since the office automatically deduces the spell was cast by the magicals living in that neighbourhood."
Madam Hopkirk flinched visibly, although she had maintained a smile. "It's a non-magical neighbourhood, Miss. It's not a habit for wizards or witches to be at such a neighbourhood."
"I think it's amazing that you're able to deduce the process of tracking underage magic, Miss Granger," interrupted Amelia, striding into the office with so much confidence that all attention was on her. Her fiery hair was swept into a ponytail, evidence that she had been working. Her arms were folded before her chest as she glanced at her subordinate.
Hermione averted her gaze bashfully.
With a charming smile, she greeted all of them warmly.
Sirius could tell from the lines on her face and her eyes that she was tired. He frowned slightly.
Madam Hopkirk rose to her feet. "Director." She was shocked to see her superior visiting her office personally.
"No, please have a seat, Mafalda. I'm here for the results. So it's confirmed that Harry was not responsible?" questioned Amelia, picking up the case file before her. She was careful to position herself besides her subordinate so that she project the image that she was not taking charge of her case.
Madam Hopkirk nodded stiffly. "It's as you have deduced. I have spoken to the head of the squad just now."
Amelia's brows furrowed. Those brows smoothed to form an emotionless mask after a moment. She scanned the faces around the table and deduced there was something more.
"Thank you for your hard work. I appreciate the effort you put in to resolve the issue. If you don't mind, could I take over from here? If Harry did not use magic, then the case should have concluded on your end."
Madam Hopkirk inclined her head. "It's my duty, Director."
Amelia smiled warmly. She caught Sirius's eye. "Do you mind if I borrow your office for a moment?"
"Please feel free, Director." The witch gestured to her seat before she exited her office.
Immediately, Amelia casted the spells to ensure their privacy. The Director settled into the creaking chair, savouring the chance to rest her feet.
"Mafalda doesn't quite like me," grumbled Sirius. "It was perfectly normal for me to ask those questions."
Hermione nudged Sirius on his ribs, encouraging him to get to his point.
Sirius rolled his eyes at her before clearing his eyes. "Right. A team of hit-wizards attacked us when we were at Number four, Privet Drive. They tried to arrest Harry."
"A squad?" echoed Amelia in surprise, her eyes wide. "When did that take place? Why were you at Number four?"
Hermione gave her the estimated time of that squad's arrival, avoiding the other question.
"I wanted to check if the Dursleys were safe," replied Harry, seeing that no one wanted to answer that question. "I was worried for them. Anyway, we have evidence that they were kidnapped by the Headmaster."
"Evidence? What evidence?" demanded Amelia, flabbergasted.
"We have an eyewitness—"
"I caught a scent of him when I was examining the room," added Sirius nonchalantly, leaning into his chair.
Amelia's face scrunched in anger before exploding. "You compromised the crime scene!" shrieked the Head of the House of Bones, tunnelling her hand through her hair. "I was going to send an Auror to investigate the matter." She stood up and began to pace back and forth in the small office cubicle. She took a deep breath to centre herself. She reached for a memo on the table and composed a short note for Kingsley.
"Who do you think I'm? I used to be an Auror. I couldn't possibly allow Harry to go alone—"
Amelia narrowed her eyes at Harry. "Harry shouldn't be at the scene at all. Voldemort is out there and he's out for your life. It's simply reckless and irresponsible."
Harry averted his eyes at her withering gaze. He backed away slightly, terrified by the display of her temper. Sirius coped with her temper better.
"I have a suggestion. Amelia, why don't you just reinstate Sirius's position?" offered Hermione, trying to resolve the issue. "That will give him the authority to conduct the investigation. Besides, you're struggling with manpower issues right?"
Amelia turned her head to fix a glare at Sirius. "Technically, he's still in service. I didn't want to press you into making a decision because of your circumstances. Hermione, it's a good idea. I really need all the help I can find if we want to bring Dumbledore to justice and destroy Voldemort at the same time."
Sirius shifted in his seat. He shot at Harry as he contemplated his choices. Harry looked almost delighted at the idea of Sirius being offered the opportunity to be useful.
"I don't wish to be part of the DMLE. If you allow me to focus on accomplishing both of these tasks, I don't mind working as an Auror."
"I can allow that," promised Amelia, looking at Sirius. She steepled her hands as she contemplated. "Would you mind if I promote you? I believe the Ministry should at least do that for you."
"Promote me?" He looked worried.
"So that you have executive powers to check on the squad of Hit-wizards and the office of Improper magic? It's easier for you to conduct investigation and deploy manpower."
"Rufus is the Head Auror, isn't he?" answered Sirius gruffly. "I know nothing about being a hit-wizard."
Amelia rubbed her chin.
"What about creating a position of secretary to Director of DMLE? The purpose of that role is to assist you in facilitating between the sub-communities within the DMLE?" suggested Hermione, tapping the desk absently.
"The other Directors, with the exception of Mask, have undersecretaries. It's a brilliant idea. You shall only answer to me." She beamed at the thought. "What do you think of it?"
"Undersecretary, DMLE?" clarified Sirius, looking affronted. He pointed to himself. "Me! A secretary?"
Amelia nodded, grinning from ear to ear.
"You expect me to write reports, answer your owls and organise your schedule?" demanded Sirius loudly.
"Well, if you want to, I wouldn't stop you." She checked her fingernails.
Sirius smacked his head with his hand. "Pup, aren't you grateful at what lengths I'll go for you."
Hermione rolled her eyes at their theatrics. Indeed, they seemed to be a matching couple.
"Is that a yes?" questioned Amelia, barely suppressing her smile.
"Don't you think you need to inform the head of all the sub-committees and your boss? I don't think our esteemed Minister would agree to it."
Amelia shrugged. "The other heads will see the purpose to create such a position. Tell me if they have problems with you. As for my superior, he wouldn't try to interfere. There isn't many in DMLE who can coordinate the different committees because they aren't influential in the Wizengamot."
Sirius nodded in head. He understood why it was important that the Undersecretary had a say in the Wizengamot. "But…At the moment, Malfoy's leading the other faction. I don't have that sort of influence in Wizengamot yet."
"I think you should go for it. Amelia really needs help," encouraged Harry. "You can't possibly do nothing when Hermione and I return to Hogwarts on Monday. It'll bore you to death. I'll prefer if you took charge of rescuing the Dursleys."
"Well, I have family matters to deal with. I need to build up my influence in the Wizengamot. Besides, I'm serious about Project See," protested Sirius loudly. "Besides, what about your education? I had the intention of training both of you. I wanted to teach you the ways of being a Lord."
Harry patted his hand.
"It's merely a few days more before we return back to Hogwarts. There isn't much you can do with us. We'll follow the exercising routine. Otherwise, I could ask Dan to train us in self-defence."
Hermione nodded enthusiastically.
Amelia merely rolled her eyes as she drafted his contract. "No, we could take turns in your training. I'm sure Hestia would love to help. You could ask either Winky or Dobby to look after the teenagers at school."
Sirius had decided to bond with Winky and Dobby after speaking to both of them. Dobby accepted remunerations while Winky refused it. Sirius gave Dobby the duty of taking care of Harry and Hermione, something he had been doing. Winky was glad that she was given the task of cleaning up Grimmauld Place, the principle seat of the Blacks.
"Sign here. You could choose to assist the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures if you really want to after everything ends," concluded Amelia, rolling her eyes.
Emma, Harry, and Hermione hid their smiles as they watched Sirius expectantly.
Sirius could not find a reason to reject the post. It was true that taking the position would open doors for him to conduct his investigation. Besides, he could only watch over Amelia. In reality, he wasn't given much of a choice.
Sighing, he picked up the handsome quill and willing took on his new shackles. He quickly glanced through the contract to make sure it was correct before he signed his name at the bottom of the page.
He dropped the quill immediately, slouching in his seat.
"Welcome back, Undersecretary Black," grinned Amelia, extending her hand towards him. He rolled his eyes at her.
"Shall I get to work immediately?" offered Sirius sarcastically, rising to his feet.
At that moment, Amelia caught sight of a tall black wizard approaching them. She dropped the spells that surrounded the office instantly.
"It's good to see you again, Sirius," smiled Kingsley, after inclining his head as a greeting to Amelia. The single gold hoop in his ear shook slightly.
A large smile spread across Sirius's face as he closed the distance between them. Cordially, Sirius pumped his hand. "It's good to see you," returned Sirius. "Well, now that I'm free. I know that Am assigned you to track me down."
He laughed brightly. "Well, she trusted me to do my job. You were quite slick," complimented Kingsley.
Sirius slapped him on the back before introducing him to the rest of them.
"Now that both of you have caught up, Kingsley, would you help Sirius with everything he needs? He'll need the standard Auror items. He needs some help to familiarise himself with the Department. He has agreed to be the Undersecretary of DMLE."
A look of confusion appeared on the Auror's face.
"It's a new position. His rank is just below mine. He has several things to look into," explained Amelia absently as she penned down another memo.
Kingsley grinned at Sirius. "A promotion. Congratulations, Sirius. What do you need?"
"The schedule of squad of Hit-wizards for today," answered Sirius, scratching his chin. He decided to prioritise the rescue of the Dursleys since Amelia had squads to stake the places in which Voldemort might be hiding.
"Ah, that. I'll hand you a copy when I return to office," added Amelia, signing the memos with a flourish before she dispatched them. Those memos transformed into paper cranes and floated to their receiver.
"You can pass it to Kingsley first. I want to see them home first, "replied Sirius." I'll return here to grab my new equipment later."
Emma smiled at that thoughtful gesture.
A flying memo informed Amelia that she was needed elsewhere. A large grin appeared on her face after she scanned the note. She rose to her feet briskly. "The message I have been waiting for. It's time to kick some butt." Her grin had a feral edge to it.
Suddenly, her face fell as if she remembered something unpleasant. "Harry, it might be a good idea to speak to Hestia when you're free. She has something important to speak to you."
Hermione and Harry shared a glance. Imperceptibly, Hermione shrugged—"Let's worry about it after we meet Hesita." Harry inclined his head before thanking Amelia warmly.
Uncharacteristic of her, Amelia embraced Harry firmly. "We're always here for you."
"Erm…Thanks." It felt strange to know that Amelia was starting to care for him.
The Director turned to face Sirius. "Please join me at the meeting after you have seen them home. I need you to be at this meeting. You wouldn't want to miss it."
She bade the rest farewell. Hurriedly, she darted out of the office, with Kingsley at her heel, ready to enter the ring.
(1) Hymm. "I have decided". The lyrics originated from a man who chose to follow Jesus after being prosecuted for his faith. The headman from his village executed all his family first in an attempt to persuade him to renounce his faith, hence "the cross before me, the world behind me." He refused and he was executed in the end. However, due to his act of faith, the entire village came to believe in Christ. It's symbolic in this story.
A/N: Thank you for reading. I'm amazed by the reviews and humbled by the support. A shoutout to readers who had followed my work since H J Potter. Updates will probably be slow since I'm resuming work after a long long break, though I'll try my best to complete it soon since it's the exciting bit.
I think a reviewer commented about how packed the Easter break seemed to be and I ought to change the timeline.I was quite amused by the comment because the story was first written to cement the different modern literary techniques like stream of consciousness, epiphanies etc etc... And honestly, I didn't think I would continue in that fashion. I know a lot happened in five days but it's really not as bad as Mrs Dalloway (300 pages about events that take place in 24 hours). Besides, it's so packed because there are many events happening cocurrently, like a 4D chess.
Oh ya, I just realised that this story was elected for its pairing. Have a blessed day!