September
"I think you being Head Boy again is appropriate given the circumstances that led to you needing to repeat your seventh year," Headmistress McGonagall's words filled Collins's mind as he stood in a compartment, putting the finishing touches on his uniform. "You are already respected and nobody eligible to take the job comes close to what you can give to it."
Noise filled the air and Collins quietly made his way out of the compartment and peeked out on to the crowded platform. He saw messes of wizarding families and many of them he knew, but he didn't feel right about going and intruding on people's family time any more than he had that summer. Before leaving the Burrow, he had left a thank you note and a bit of money for the Weasleys for their kindness to him over the summer.
Sighing softly, Collins returned to his compartment and made sure his trunk was secure before sitting down. Before he knew it, the warning whistle sounded and noise filled the train. A few moments later, the train pulled away from the platform and into the country.
"Guess I'd better make sure everyone's settling in," Collins spoke softly as he stood up.
The train was noisy and all of the compartments were full, something Collins was delighted to see because it meant people weren't afraid of returning to school even with what had happened over the summer. He could see James and Fred sitting in a compartment with Roxane, Dominique, and Louis, all of them in some sort of deep conversation. As much as he wanted to sit with Dominique and hold her, he knew he was still an outsider to the family.
Collins quickly moved on before they noticed him and he quickly came upon Albus, Molly, Adeleina, Allison, Remus, Rianna, Lorcan, and Lysander squashed into another compartment together. He saw Lily, Frank, Hugo, Rose, and Adrian in the next one.
"Excuse me, are you the Head Boy this year?" a soft voice suddenly asked.
Collins turned to see the trolley keeper coming towards him with a nervous looking boy and girl, both of whom were dragging trunks, "I am," he replied calmly. "Lost students?"
"They were hiding in the sick car," the trolley keeper replied kindly. "I don't know who…"
The boy sighed, "I'm Colin Finnegan and this is my sister, Emma," he replied softly. "Our mum and dad went to this school, but Mum's sick and people are scared of her."
"I'm Alexander Collins and I'm the Head Boy," Collins replied softly. "Do you have a spot?"
Colin shook his head and Emma sighed, "How old are you both?" Collins asked.
Just then, Adrian came running from the direction of the bathroom, "Scorpius is hiding in the bathroom," he reported anxiously. "I told him to come out, but he says he's panicking."
Collins sighed, as he knew that Scorpius had not had the easiest time and was probably worrying about his father. He was also worried, however, that Scorpius would self harm.
"Alex, what's wrong?" Dominique asked as she suddenly came out, having overheard.
Collins looked apologetic, "Do you know who the Head Girl is?" he asked softly.
"I am again," Dominique replied quietly. "Are you needing some help?"
Collins nodded, "Could you find Colin and Emma a place to sit while I check on Scorpius?" he asked in a concerned voice. "Adrian said Scorpius locked himself in the bathroom."
Dominique looked concerned, but nodded and Collins hurried to the bathroom, "Scorpius?" he asked softly, rapping on the door. "Adrian said you locked yourself in…"
The door opened and Scorpius stood there looking as if he had just been sick and crying, "What if my dad dies while I'm at school?" he asked softly. "We barely talked this summer because he didn't have the strength. He told me to be happy and live my life, but…"
"You two went on the run after your grandfather attacked the Leaky Cauldron and that was very stressful," Collins replied in a calm voice, sighing. "Look, my compartment is empty. Why don't you go there and rest for a bit? It might help you feel better. It's at the end."
Scorpius looked reluctant, so Collins walked him there and settled him on the seat opposite his just as Dominique arrived with James, Colin, and Emma and their trunks in tow, "Do you mind some company?" Dominique asked softly. "The other compartments are crowded…"
Shrugging, Scorpius curled into a ball and went to sleep, "Sure, come in," Collins replied in a kind voice, smiling. "James, are you a Prefect again this year? I don't know when Patrols…"
"I can do the first one," Dominique offered softly, smiling. "Just sit and relax for now."
Colin and Emma silently entered the compartment with their things and put them up, but James lingered uncertainly, "I, um, had better go help with patrols," he finally said softly.
Once James was gone, Collins sighed quietly, "Is that a Potter?" Emma asked softly. "We were told about them by our mum and dad, but that's not what the picture looked like."
"That's James Potter, the eldest Potter boy," Collins explained. "Albus and Lily…"
Emma looked amused, "The papers say he was real sick," she replied. "Right?"
Collins sighed, but quietly proceeded to share what he knew about the situation.
"I honestly don't know why I agreed to this," Aaron grumbled as he entered Hogwarts with Amelia at his side. "I don't know anything about teaching and I'm not my…"
Amelia sighed gently, "You were the top in your class and you subbed from time to time at Ilvermony during flu season," she replied calmly. "Nobody is going to compare you to your father, Aaron. Headmistress McGonagall sure didn't."
Before Aaron could reply, Headmistress McGonagall came out of the Entrance Hall looking anxious, "Good, Aaron, you're here," she spoke calmly. "Just in time to meet the students."
Amelia silently hugged Aaron and departed the castle. It was as he watched his wife leave that he finally noticed it had gotten late and that the students were on their way.
"I hadn't realized it was so late," Aaron apologized. "The staff meeting! I forgot…"
Headmistress McGonagall sighed, "It's perfectly all right seeing as you have never taught here before and are unfamiliar with protocols," she replied patiently as she handed him a small book. "Here's a copy of those protocols so you learn them."
Aaron nodded, "Best take your seat at the Staff Table," she said sternly, wondering if hiring him had been a mistake.
Aaron quietly excused himself to the Great Hall just as the carriages came to a stop outside and students got out. Kaysar silently came out of the Great Hall and joined the Headmistress, an amused look on his face, "Evening, Headmistress," he said softly.
"Oh, Linnis, I don't want to hear it," Headmistress McGonagall replied in an exasperated voice. "He is so much like Albus that it absolutely frightens me, but he's also got an attitude and characteristics that I do not approve of, such as tardiness..."
Kaysar sighed, "Headmistress, I'm sure it's temporary and will disappear once he adapts to the schedule," he replied patiently. "Do you want me to greet the…?"
"You are Deputy Head," Headmistress McGonagall replied. "It is your right."
Kaysar nodded as students from years two to seven began streaming into the castle around them. He could see his own children and the friends of his children among them, but he merely offered a polite nod because he was now in the Professor role.
"I'll see you inside," Headmistress McGonagall said, her tone now calmer.
Headmistress McGonagall didn't wait for a reply before she went back into the Great Hall and sat in the Head chair. Soon enough, the Hall was filled with students and the first-years, as well as Emma and Colin, were standing at the front with Kaysar.
The Sorting went quickly, as there weren't many first years, and each House got a few. Kaysar smiled at the new students before turning his attention to Colin and Emma. They were 14, which meant they would be in fourth year, and Emma was quickly sorted into Gryffindor, but the Hat took several minutes before sending Colin to Slytherin, stating quite emphatically that he was destined to change prejudices.
A few other students from Ilvermony had come over, but their Sortings had been done privately and they were already among the groups at the tables. Families who had lived in the Ministry apartments due to space being at a premium in New York had lost everything, but the Ministry had helped them get what they need.
Emma quietly went to the Gryffindor Table and Colin went his way, both of them deeply shocked that they weren't in the same House like they had been at Ilvermony.
"Welcome to another year at Hogwarts!" Headmistress McGonagall spoke in a calm, but official voice as she stood. "To start, I'd like to announce the new members of staff we have this year. Aaron Dumbledore will be teaching Transfiguration; Teddy Lupin will be joint teaching with Professor Linnis; Professor Weasley has moved to teaching History of Magic because Professor Binns has crossed over; and the position of Charms Professor will be occupied by none other than Narcissa Malfoy."
Scorpius's eyes widened in surprise as he looked up at the Staff Table and saw his grandmother sitting there next to a young man that looked the same age as Collins, "I'd also like to announce the addition of an educational and supervisory assistant to the staff this year," Headmistress McGonagall said. "Welcome Linus Picquery."
As Rose eyed the newcomer, something within her stirred as she remembered reading about him in the Prophet. She had also read that his grandmother had invented quite a few spells to keep magical folk and Muggles apart and from Muggles finding out about the magical world. Perhaps he could help her in her quest to end Draco Malfoy so that everyone would stop fawning over Scorpius. He seemed intelligent enough.
Down the table, Louis frowned at seeing Linus there. He knew from Amanda that Linus had seen Alana during her time with Kadir and he was suddenly scared for both Amanda and Tom. He needed to get permission to go visit Amanda after the Feast to ensure that Kadir or Linus wouldn't be able to do anything to disrupt his family. He would ask his Aunt Hermione to help him with it. If he wasn't able to get away tonight, he would go in the morning and get a sick pass from classes.
"Fancy the new teaching assistant, Rosie?" Rose suddenly heard Fred snicker as McGonagall announced something about mental health services now being offered.
Rose glared at Fred and James, "He was held prisoner by Kadir," Allison spoke in a quiet, concerned voice as she frowned. "I remember seeing him at that place…"
James swore, "Is that why they put him here?" he replied. "For his safety?"
"He was wounded and his grandmother was killed during the attack on the American Ministry," Rose explained sharply. "He was the top student…don't you read papers?"
James scoffed, "And Narcissa Malfoy?" he hissed. "She's allowed to teach here?!"
Over at the Slytherin Table, Scorpius pointedly picked at his food while watching his grandmother eat in silence. She didn't engage in conversation with the other Professors as Linus and Aaron did; she simply sat there as if made invisible.
"Is it strange for you?" Molly asked softly. "Seeing your grandmother here?"
Scorpius didn't reply, as he didn't know how to feel about it, "Snape's watching you, Scorp," Albus suddenly whispered. "He's gonna get after you if you don't eat."
"So what?" Scorpius replied anxiously. "I'm not feeling my best tonight, Albus."
Albus frowned, but Scorpius ignored him and went up to Professor Snape at the Staff Table, "May I be excused?" Scorpius asked softly. "You're Head of Slytherin again…"
"You haven't touched a bit of food," Severus replied softly, frowning. "Why?"
Scorpius sighed, "I'm feeling a lot of anxiety," he confessed, unable to lie.
Severus raised an eyebrow, "I'm not going to excuse you from having supper, but you may eat it in your dormitory just for tonight," he replied quietly. "I suspect that you are still recovering emotionally from this summer and the shock of your…"
Scorpius swallowed hard, "I will escort you there myself and wait while you eat your supper," Severus spoke in a quiet voice, snapping his fingers to make his plate vanish.
Ignoring the looks the other Professors were giving him, Severus got up and led Scorpius from the Great Hall and down to the Slytherin Common Room. He made Scorpius sit and conjured a plate, not moving while Scorpius emptied the plate.
"I know it must be difficult to see your grandmother as a professor after all that she and your grandfather have done, but it was arranged with the promise that she would be carefully watched," Severus explained softly. "If you feel uncomfortable…"
Scorpius nodded, "I'll tell someone and I won't cut," he promised softly.
"Good," Severus replied quietly. "Your father would not like to hear it if you did self-harm and he is doing as well as he can considering that he nearly expended himself protecting you and Allison Longbottom during the summer. He is currently recovering at my manor and he will receive any mail you send through me."
Scorpius sighed, "He's dying," he spoke softly. "How much longer does he have?"
"That is not a question you should be asking, nor is it a question I have an answer to," Severus replied as he Vanished the dishes. "Your father did express his wishes that you take Dreamless Sleep at bedtime until further notice and I have modified it so you will not become addicted to it. I also slipped it into a juice to make it easier to…"
The portrait suddenly opened and Severus sighed, "It is beside your bed," he said.
Just then, Collins led a large group of Slytherins, including Albus, Molly, Adeleina, Adrian, Remus, and Colin, into the Common Room. Severus nodded at Scorpius before excusing himself and Scorpius quietly went to his dorm without protest.
The juice was on the table beside his bed and Scorpius stared at it briefly before drinking it. He set the cup down as Remus, Adrian, Albus, and Colin came into the dormitory and made beelines for their pajamas. Albus gave Scorpius a look.
Scorpius, however, quietly magicked himself into his pajamas and set his wand on the table. Remus wandered over to the window and sat, not wanting to sleep right away.
Albus, on the other hand, sat on his bed and watched as Scorpius went to sleep; he knew that Scorpius had been given a potion and he hoped that it would be of help.
"I remember Linus Picquery from when I was held prisoner at Kadir's mansion," Allison spoke in an anxious voice as she entered her father's office and found him. "When he was announced, I recognized him..."
Neville frowned, but said nothing, "He was dressed in shabby clothes and bruised," Allison spoke softly. "I didn't realize that Kadir kept so many prisoners…"
"There's a lot we don't know about Kadir or even this Linus fellow, but don't go pestering Linus about it either," Neville replied quietly, sighing. "Trauma affects people differently and he is also dealing with the nightmare that happened at MACUSA, so he is probably very grateful for the distraction he now has."
Allison nodded, "As far as Narcissa Malfoy goes, I suspect the Ministry made some sort of arrangement for her to teach here," Neville spoke quietly. "I know the reminders of your imprisonment here aren't pleasant. Is that why you're here?"
"It's just too much," Allison explained softly. "Seeing Narcissa and Linus…"
Neville sighed patiently, "You can stay with me in my quarters tonight," he replied in a patient voice. "I suspect that this year won't be easy on any of us."
Exhaling softly, Neville got up and put an arm around Allison, "I suspect some hot chocolate from the kitchens may also help," he spoke gently. "Come with me."
As Neville and Allison approached the Great Hall, they saw an unfamiliar man talking with Linus and Headmistress McGonagall, "…I'm very grateful you both arranged for me to serve as a teaching assistant this year, but I don't know if anyone will accept me," Linus was speaking softly. "There will no doubt be gossip and taunters…"
"And they shall be dealt with appropriately," Headmistress McGonagall spoke in a firm voice. "Ilvermony and President Taylor said you were the valedictorian of the year and you also earned top accolades during your internship with MACUSA. I hardly think it fair for you to be cheated of opportunity given recent events…"
Linus nodded, "I will show you where your office and quarters are, Mister Picquery," Headmistress McGonagall spoke kindly, smiling at Neville and Allison. "Evening…"
Neville offered a smile and watched as Headmistress McGonagall led Roger and Linus off down a corridor. Linus nodded politely at Allison, but it was painfully obvious that he recognized her; that made her feel sorry for the trauma he had.
Sighing, Neville led Allison into the Great Hall and was surprised to find James and Fred in there, quietly talking at the Gryffindor Table, "…Mum and Dad were busy with helping Dad's uncle and cousin and I never got the chance to tell them…" James was speaking in a quiet, concerned voice. "I…I don't know how they'll feel…"
Fred sighed, but nodded and both boys froze at the sight of Neville and Allison, "All done with your Prefect duties, James?" Neville asked. "Fred, what are you doing?"
"Planning pranks like my dad used to, sir," Fred lied, knowing that he and James would be in trouble if they told the truth. "James and Roxy finished their duties."
Neville sighed, "Well, it's bedtime," he replied gently. "Go up to Gryffindor Tower."
Nodding, James and Fred departed quickly and quietly, "Daddy, they're lying," Allison spoke in a quiet voice, frowning. "Notice how Fred didn't look at you."
"I did notice that, but I cannot make them tell the truth unless there is proof they are going to do something dangerous," Neville replied softly. "Hot chocolate?"
Morning came all too quickly and the first class of the day brought the fourth-years outside to the greenhouses for Herbology, "Welcome to fourth year, Herbology, everyone," Neville spoke calmly. "Today, we'll be working the school gardens and harvesting what we can for the refugees in Hogsmeade. Everyone have gloves?"
Murmurs filled the greenhouse, but everyone nodded and quietly followed Neville down to the area of the castle where Hagrid lived. Everyone was stunned to see a patch of garden filled with crops of lettuce, pumpkins, tomatoes, radishes, peas, beans, corn, cucumbers, and other vegetables. Several buckets were scattered throughout the garden and Scorpius found himself reminded of the market in Keresley. Most of the students were shocked, as many had never seen such a garden before.
"It's still a young garden, but there are a few things that need picking and some weeding needs to be done," Neville explained calmly. "Divide into pairs…"
Rose raised her hand, "Why a garden?" she asked. "The school gives us food."
Murmurs filled the group and Allison gave Rose a look, "Why would you question my dad's intelligence?" she asked sternly. "He's one of the best Professors here and if he says we need a garden, I'm sure McGonagall approved it. This isn't a bad thing…"
Rose glared at Allison, "Allison is right in this was approved by the Headmistress, but the things that are growing here are not for us," Neville explained in a quiet voice. "I started this garden project right after MACUSA was attacked and the crops from this garden will be sent to Hogsmeade and divided among the refugees. From what we've been told, it will be at least a year before the evacuees can return. Many of the evacuees lived in apartments at MACUSA and lost everything in the attack."
"You mean the attack that Lucius Malfoy did?" an angry voice called out.
Neville frowned as a fourth year Gryffindor broke out of the group and spat at Scorpius and Adrian, "Malfoy spawn!" the boy hissed angrily. "I hope you…"
"I was adopted by my dad, Kaysar Linnis," Adrian snapped back, frowning.
Remus cursed and drew his wand, "Oh, is the itty-bitty Dumbledore gonna curse me?" the Gryffindor taunted, glaring at Remus. "I heard your dad's a nutter…"
"ENOUGH!" Neville shouted. "Stephenson, 20 points from Gryffindor!"
Stephenson glared at Remus, Scorpius, and Adrian, but became quiet and Neville sighed, "All of you break into groups and either fill the buckets with vegetables or do some weeding," Neville explained. "Wear your gloves at all times. This garden is enchanted so it will replenish itself for as long as it's needed and will last in winter."
Albus quickly put his gloves on, but Colin and Emma looked reluctant, "Those refugees persecuted our Mum for being sick," Colin spoke softly. "I…I don't know if we should help with the garden. Dad told us to be good, but…."
Neville frowned, but quickly set the other students to work without a word before pulling them aside, "Our Dad hates MACUSA because they sentenced our Mum to death, but Auror Potter helped us escape," Emma said softly. "To help them…"
"Your Mum was sentenced to death?!" Neville replied in a shocked voice. "Why?"
Colin scoffed and went back to the garden, "Mum and Dad said we're not allowed to talk about it," Emma spoke softly. "Auror Potter got Dad a job at the Ministry that lets him work from home when Mum's not well."
Neville nodded and sent Emma to work with Rose and Allison while he walked around to check on the other students. Before he knew it, class was over and he quietly gathered the fourth-years, "Time to go!" he announced in a kind voice.
The entire class hurried up to the castle, "You're such a little teacher's pet, Longbottom!" Stephenson hissed at Allison. "Just because you're his kid…!"
Remus suddenly swore and popped Stephenson in the nose, prompting the other fourth-year Gryffindors to lunge at him, "AHEM!" an angry voice suddenly rang.
The crowd parted as Aaron suddenly emerged from a classroom sporting dark green robes and looking angry, as he had been preparing his lesson when the fight had broken out, "Fighting?!" he spoke in a stern voice, giving the group a look. "I want to know who was involved and why."
"Sir, Stephenson insulted me and Remus punched him in the nose," Allison replied.
Aaron sighed, "30 points from both Gryffindor and Slytherin and detention for both of you," he replied in a stern voice. "The rest of you get inside and to your seats without a word, please. Remus, stay out here. We're going to chat before I start class."
Everyone but Remus filed into the classroom, "Remus, I know you're still angry about what happened to us and about the fact that MACUSA is over here until their Headquarters are fixed, but you can't resort to beating people up when you're in a bad mood," Aaron spoke quietly. "You also can't beat people up for insulting you or others. I want you to promise me that you'll behave better in the future."
"I promise," Remus replied softly. "What should I do when trouble happens?"
Aaron sighed, "Find an adult or the Head Students or a Prefect," he replied gently.
Remus nodded, "What's my detention going to be?" he asked quietly.
"I think copying sections from a book will teach you discipline," Aaron replied calmly. "Now, get in class and remember to call me 'Professor' if you want to address me."
Remus silently obeyed and Aaron went to the front of the classroom, sighing as he faced his class, "Welcome to Transfiguration," Aaron spoke calmly. "My name is Professor Aaron Dumbledore and I will be your Transfiguration teacher for at least the year. You should be reasonably skilled, seeing as you are fourth-years, so I'd like to test your ability to Transfigure things that you were already taught to handle."
Aaron waved his wand and a pile of simple objects appeared on his desk, "Pair up and then come get objects from my desk," he replied calmly. "We're going to spend today seeing what you know and what you might need to improve upon this year."
Tom cooed happily as Amanda sat in the rocking chair and silently fed him a bottle before giving him some applesauce. The Hog's Head was quiet with only Aberforth and Amelia working downstairs. She knew Louis had arrived at the castle and they talked via Floo every single night. The first Hogsmeade weekend would be soon and then they would be able to spend the day together as a family, preparation for later.
The fireplace suddenly came to life and Amanda was surprised when Louis came into the room, "Mandy, we need to do the ritual today," Louis spoke anxiously.
"Today?" Amanda asked softly, frowning. "I'm not protesting, but can you…?"
Louis sighed, "You told me that Linus Picquery used to be involved with your sister, right?" he asked in a concerned voice. "He's a teaching assistant up at the school and I don't want him to try and take you or Tom away. What if he's Tom's father?!"
"Alana told me she didn't know how she became pregnant, Louis," Amanda replied in a quiet voice, her expression worried. "I do not know if she was lying, but after she died, I went to the Ministry and adopted Tom legally. I also said we were engaged."
Louis nodded, but continued to look concerned, "My aunt's contacting all the family members that are of age," he explained. "She suggested we do the bonding tonight."
"Louis, I don't need a fancy ceremony," Amanda replied, smiling. "I just need you and I need Tom."
Louis gently kissed Amanda and kissed Tom, who giggled, "I got a special pass from classes to spend the day with you both and McGonagall said we could do the bonding at suppertime in the Great Hall so everyone could be there," he replied softly. "Aunt Hermione even got permission to make quarters for us so we could live together."
Amanda looked worried, "It's your last year," she replied. "All the things you could be doing: the parties, the Quidditch, and all the other things that unbound students…"
"My heart is with you and Tom, Mandy," Louis replied softly. "It has been for a while now, but I couldn't do anything official about it until we were both of age. I wanted to marry you anyway even before you adopted Tom. This makes it all the sweeter."
Amanda's smile grew, "We should go shopping for wedding clothes if we're getting married tonight," she replied with a smile. "You said you had the whole day, right?"
Louis nodded and the three travelled downstairs where Amelia and Aberforth were working, "We're getting married tonight at Hogwarts," he announced softly. "We decided that it's the proper time and we'd like to invite you both to come."
"I suppose it's appropriate given the state of things," Aberforth replied softly.
Amanda nodded, "We need to go shopping for wedding clothes," she spoke in a concerned voice. "I…I'm not really sure what to get or what I can afford…"
"Breakfast first," Amelia spoke firmly. "Sit down, all three of you."
Louis and Amanda obeyed, "I fed Tom already," Amanda explained quietly.
"I ate in the Great Hall, ma'am," Louis spoke politely. "Amanda, have you…?"
Amanda sighed, "I snuck some applesauce before I woke Tommy," she replied.
Amelia nodded and took Tom from Amanda, "I'll look after this one," she spoke in a kind voice, smiling at them. "The village has a clothing shop and you should be able to find party favors at the joke shop. You two should have time to yourselves before the nuptials and I can make sure this one gets clothes. Go on out and have fun."
Louis took Amanda's hand as they stood, smiling before they left the Hog's Head together. They walked down the street and jumped into the air when George suddenly burst out of his shop with an impish grin on his face, "Hello," he said slyly.
"Oy, Uncle George, you scared us!" Louis spoke calmly. "What's up?"
George's grin grew, "I heard from a little Floo bird that you and Mandy are getting married tonight up at the school," he replied eagerly. "Firstly, I have to say you are crazy and young, but clearly in love. Secondly, I want to offer my services…"
"Services?" Louis asked suspiciously. "We're going to get party favors from you…."
George sighed, "I happen to know you two don't know anything about proper wedding clothes and I do," he replied, smiling. "Please, I need a break…"
Louis nodded, as he knew that his Uncle George was working a lot of hours between the store in Hogsmeade and the store in Diagon Alley since Lee Jordan was focusing his efforts on helping MACUSA's refugees. George smiled and locked the shop. His Aunt Angelina was running the Diagon Alley shop, but both were wearing down.
"On we go, then," George replied kindly. "Let's get you kids some wedding clothes."
"...I would not normally entrust such an important brew to students, but there is an excessive amount of requests for this draught and I simply cannot keep up without assistance," Severus spoke in a calm voice as he stood in front of the sixth-year class looking serious. "You can either make the Draught of Peace or the Pepper-Up Potion in this double period. There is sufficient time to get one potion done…"
James sighed and quietly flipped to the page in his book that listed the steps for the Pepper-Up Potion, as he didn't think he could trust himself to do more than the basics at the moment. His secret still weighed very heavily on his mind and he was very scared that he was going to wake up in the middle of the night in his dormitory, screaming from the nightmare that had been Malfoy Manor. It was too much.
Swallowing hard, James silently went to the ingredients cupboard and gathered the things he needed before slowly going back to his cauldron. He was so engrossed in working and ignoring the chatter around him that he didn't notice that Severus was watching him closely, "I'm surprised at you, Potter," he suddenly heard a voice say.
James turned to see a fellow sixth-year named Mac Caulay, who was one of his dorm mates, eyeing his cauldron and ingredients with confusion, "You're one of the best brewers in the class and you're a Potter to boot," Mac spoke darkly. "Why are you brewing such a sissy potion?"
"I'm not my parents and I like this potion," James snapped, his expression angry.
Mac scoffed, "You're the eldest Potter kid and you're in Gryffindor!" he replied in a shocked voice. "After what you did in your third year, you've turned into such a…"
"SILENCE!" Severus shouted as he slammed his hands on the table. "Caulay...!"
James turned away, doing his best to ignore the words that Caulay had said even though they were similar to the taunts he had been forced to hear during his time as a prisoner at Malfoy Manor, "…Jamie, your hands," James heard Fred whisper.
Panic filled James as he looked down at his hands and realized that they were trembling because of anxiety. He suddenly felt a hand on his arm and froze up.
Nausea and a migraine rocked James's body and he found himself fleeing from class without his books. He curled up in a ball in a corner not far from the classroom.
The sound of Severus shouting at the top of his lungs suddenly filled the entire corridor and James suddenly found that he couldn't breathe. Silence filled the dungeons and as James slowly began passing out, he felt a cold hand touch his face.
"A panic attack," Headmistress McGonagall spoke in a concerned voice as she stood outside of the Hospital Wing with Severus and Kaysar. "How did this happen?"
Severus scoffed, "Imbecile behavior from others," he replied coldly. "Another Gryffindor student was mocking Mister Potter about his choice to make the Pepper-Up Potion and referenced the incident involving Malfoy Manor…"
"Oh, good Lord," Kaysar muttered anxiously, his expression aghast. "I knew I was doing the right thing by introducing mental health services to the school…"
Headmistress McGonagall nodded, "I'm sorry that you won't have the resources you had at the Phoenix Center to help, but I'm relieved you decided to bring your psychological expertise to the school," she replied. "If you think it necessary…"
"I do, but James is still a minor and I will need the consent of his parents and his Head of House in order to put him in mandatory counseling," Kaysar replied patiently.
Headmistress McGonagall nodded, "There's to be a wedding during supper this evening because Louis Weasley and Amanda Darmouth have decided to bond now that they are both of age," she explained. "I'll ask the Potters to come early."
Kaysar nodded as Roxane came down the hallway with an anxious looking Albus and Lily, "They heard about their brother and demanded to come," Roxane explained.
"I dismissed class early due to the incident," Severus replied softly, sighing. "I was not aware that you would skip your next class to alert his brother and sister…"
Roxane sighed anxiously, "Fred and Mac started arguing in the Great Hall even though it's only lunch," she explained anxiously. "Albus and Lily were there with Scorpius and Scorpius got scared and ran off, but I brought Albus and Lily…"
Severus's eyes narrowed, "Albus, Lily, you may of course remain with your brother for now," Headmistress McGonagall spoke gently. "Professor Linnis…"
Without waiting to be excused, Severus silently left and made his way down to the dungeons because he suspected that Scorpius was hiding in the Slytherin Common Room. His suspicions proved correct when he found Scorpius sitting by the fireplace.
"You are skipping lunch despite your father's wishes?" Severus spoke quietly.
Scorpius sighed, "Those two were fighting like Death Eaters," he replied softly.
Severus frowned and sat, wondering what Scorpius meant by that, "Umbridge and everyone else fought with each other a lot in Kadir's mansion," Scorpius said. "I was thinking about going to my grandmother for comfort like I used to when Dad and Mum were busy or stressed, but I don't know if she is allowed or wants to see me."
"Her office is down in the dungeons," Severus replied softly. "I can take you there so you may see her, but you are not to be alone with her until she has proven herself."
Scorpius nodded and got up, keeping quiet as Severus led him through the dungeons to the office that Narcissa had been given. Severus rapped on the door and waited.
"Come in," a quiet voice spoke as the door slowly opened. "Is it inspection day already?"
Severus entered the office with Scorpius and both were surprised to see Narcissa sitting at her desk in black and silver robes, struggling to eat some stew while penning a letter, "Oh, Severus, Scorpius," Narcissa spoke softly, her expression nervous. "What can I do for you?"
Narcissa looked surprised as Scorpius ran around the desk and promptly hugged her without a word, "I've missed you," Scorpius spoke anxiously. "Did you miss me?"
Swallowing hard, Narcissa set her quill down and returned the hug, "Very much," she replied in a quiet voice, sighing. "Scorpius, I left to try and protect you and your father, but I do not believe it worked out well. The way things have turned out…"
"You're still my grandmother," Scorpius cut her off. "May I visit you often?"
Narcissa nodded as Scorpius released her, "You best get your lunch," she said softly.
Scorpius nodded and walked to the Great Hall with Severus, frowning when he saw Neville standing outside of it with Fred and Mac against the wall, "These two were about to start a duel," Neville explained sternly. "Cauley is one of the students from Ilvermony who was sent over here by his parents because of the attack…"
"Potter's a nutter like those Dumbledores and Finnegans!" Mac shouted, overhearing Neville's words. "The Dumbledores were expelled and the Finnegans are freaks!"
Neville frowned, "Remus's dad was sentenced to death cause of his father and Colin's mum was sentenced to death cause she's a werewolf!" Mac shouted angrily. "A freak!"
Sobbing filled the Hall and Emma suddenly ran out and up the staircase, having overheard Colin's rant. Colin, however, came bursting out of the hall and lunged at Mac, knocking Fred over in the process. Neville brandished his wand, causing the two to separate and Colin swore, flipping Mac off. Mac swore back and grunted angrily.
"My sister and I aren't werewolves and she nearly died having us!" Colin growled.
Severus shooed Scorpius into the Great Hall, "ENOUGH!" he shouted.
Fred froze, "Weasley, get back in the Great Hall before I take points," Severus ordered in an angry voice, his expression murderous. "Caulay, were you even Sorted?"
"I was at Ilvermony, you greasy-haired troll," Mac hissed. "It carried over here…"
Neville sighed, "He was Sorted privately as he was a last minute addition," he replied.
"I don't know how he ended up in Gryffindor seeing as he is acting like a cowardly brat," Severus sneered coldly. "Mister Finnegan, go get lunch unless you want…"
Before the word detention escaped Severus's lips, Colin had left and Mac stood there with Neville and Severus, "Instead of acting like a bully and an ungrateful brat, you should be very thankful that you are at Hogwarts where you get a roof over your head, a bath whenever you want, a warm bed, and meals instead of being in the refugee camp at Hogsmeade Village," Severus growled. "However, if you wish…"
Mac spat at Severus and Neville swore, "A month's detention," Neville spoke, his voice shaking as he struggled to contain his anger. "I'll also be writing your folks."
"Fine," Mac snapped before slinking away into the Great Hall for more food.
Severus sighed irritably, "It shouldn't take long to hear from his folks," Neville observed quietly. "They're in the MACUSA camp. It's on the list of families who need things from the garden and other things. I'll write them immediately."
"You are his Head of House," Severus deferred, surprisingly shaken and angry about being spat at and called such names. "I will be taking my lunch in my office."
Neville frowned, "You're upset about his behavior," he observed worriedly.
"It doesn't matter if I am or not," Severus replied coldly. "If you'll excuse me."
Once Severus was gone, Neville went into the Great Hall to get lunch for himself.
After lunch, the Great Hall was sealed so that it could be decorated for the ceremony and communal feast that would follow. All of the Potter-Weasley clan who were of age had come and were doing what they could to make it nice for Louis and Amanda.
Instead of helping, however, George and Angelina sat together on a bench near the fireplace, both of them run ragged since the events of the summer that had tripled their workload. They were both very happy for Louis and Amanda, but they were so drained from working that they had no energy left to help make the event beautiful.
Ron was also not doing much because he had developed hardness of hearing in one ear, a side-effect of the torture, and couldn't hear his mother's directions well enough to help. Of course, only Hermione knew about the deafness and had encouraged him to share it with the other members of his family, but Ron felt much too afraid to.
Although he was doing his best to read lips and use his other ear to keep up with ongoing conversations, it was becoming too much, "Ickle Ronniekins," a voice hissed.
Ron turned and saw George motioning to him, prompting him to walk over to him and Angelina, "How long have you been faking being healthy?" George asked softly.
"Shut up," Ron hissed quietly. "How do you even know that I'm not?"
George pointed to his eyes, "I can see you reading lips," he replied. "Which ear are you going deaf in? Since you could hear me, I know it's only one of them."
"Left," Ron replied quietly, sighing. "Healer Wood warned me it might happen."
George nodded, "So when are you back in the field?" he asked quietly.
"I can't go back," Ron confessed quietly, sighing. "I can't re-qualify."
Just then, Headmistress McGonagall came into the Great Hall via a side door and pulled Harry and Ginny aside. A moment later, they all left through the side door.
"That sucks," George spoke as Angelina got up. "Gonna go help with the prepping?"
Angelina nodded and Ron sat as she walked away, "Angie and me are hiring if you want to get back to work," George offered quietly. "You could work at the Hogsmeade shop during the year to be close to your family and at Diagon Alley in the summer time. Angie and I are running ragged and we could really use the help…"
"You don't care that I'm disabled now?" Ron asked in a self-conscious voice.
George gave Ron a look and pointed to the hole on the side of his head where his ear used to be, "Let me tell you what working for me will involve," he said kindly.
"Ron Weasley won't be able to return to the Auror Department, but I've hired Seamus Finnegan on," Kingsley had explained to him as they met in his office that morning for briefings. "Charlie Weasley, Victoire Weasley, Dean Thomas, Cormac McLaggen, Ernie MacMillan, Roger Davies, Susan Bones, Justin Finch-Fletchley, Dennis Creevey, and several others have also agreed to undertake Advanced Training so they can function as Aurors if there's a need…"
"Harry?"
Harry sighed and brought his mind back to the present; he and Ginny had been pulled away from decorating by Headmistress McGonagall to discuss a problem with James, but they were now outside the Hospital Wing instead of in McGonagall's office.
The door opened and Kaysar came out of the Hospital Wing, "Harry, Ginny, thank you for coming," he spoke softly. "Headmistress, do you want to ask them?"
"The school's mental health initiative is yours, Deputy Headmaster Linnis," Headmistress McGonagall replied. "I trust you will explain it sufficiently. I need to get back to other business and also speak with the House Elves about this evening."
As Headmistress McGonagall left, Harry and Ginny looked at Kaysar quizzically, "Mental Health Initiative?" Harry asked in a quiet voice. "What's that?"
"I'm not only a Healer, but a psychologist and I decided to offer my services to the school," Kaysar spoke quietly. "James had a panic attack in Potions today, according to Professor Snape, and I strongly feel that he would benefit from counseling."
Harry frowned, "A panic attack in Potions?" he asked in a confused voice. "Why?"
"Professor Snape stated that it was first verbal and then when someone tried to touch James to reassure him, he fled class and passed out in the corridor," Kaysar explained in a professional voice. "I know counseling isn't overly heard of in the wizarding world, but I did run the Phoenix Center before it was destroyed…"
Ginny nodded, as Percy had confided in her about being a patient there back after he had been missing for two weeks, "Counseling might help, but why did James have an attack in the first place?" she asked softly. "Does he suddenly not like to be touched?"
"Something happened at Malfoy Manor that only Fred knows about," Harry realized in a concerned voice. "When that brain tumor was removed, James recovered memories and he was going to tell us, but then my aunt was murdered…"
Kaysar sighed, "I'm for it if it will help, but I want to know why James got sick today," Harry spoke in a concerned voice. "Are we allowed to see him?"
Nodding, Kaysar opened the door and remained where he was as Harry and Ginny went into the Hospital Wing. Albus and Lily were sitting beside James's bed and James was awake, but not saying anything to either of them. He looked tired and sad.
Ginny and Harry sat and Ginny reached for James, but James tensed up, "Jamie, it's Mum," Ginny spoke in a concerned voice. "Why don't you want to be touched?"
"I…I…I let someone hurt me in a bad way when I was at Malfoy Manor," James stammered, his voice quaking. "I was cursed and taken to bed by someone…"
Ginny gasped and Harry suddenly felt sick, "Who did it?" Harry asked softly.
"She called herself Dolores Umbridge," James spoke softly. "She tried to do it without magic at first, but I fought and so she put me under the Imperius Curse."
Albus and Lily looked confused, "The what?" they asked in unison.
"It's an Unforgivable Curse," Harry replied quietly. "It allows the caster to control people and make them do things or submit to things against their will."
James exhaled anxiously, "She knew who I was and did it because she hated how you were at school, Dad," he explained as he gazed up at his family. "They made Fred stand there and watch. I couldn't remember it until the tumor was taken away. I guess someone put it there so I wouldn't remember…"
"Those tumors were meant to kill you as you grew into an adult," Harry replied softly.
James sighed weakly and Ginny gently stroked his hair, "Albus, Lily, don't tell anyone what your brother said," Harry spoke firmly. "What classes do you have?"
"James, it wasn't your fault," Ginny spoke softly, thinking back to when Tom Riddle had controlled her with his diary. "You were forced into something terrible against your will like I was. In my second year, I was controlled by a Dark object and it made me do terrible things and if it wasn't for your father, I would have died…"
James looked surprised, but ended up yawning instead of responding, "Deputy Headmaster Linnis believes you would benefit from counselling and he can do it here at the school," Harry spoke quietly. "I think it would help you, but it's your choice."
"Okay," James replied groggily, sighing. "Talking about it made me tired."
Ginny gently stroked James's face and he went to sleep rather quickly, but he looked relaxed, "You two need to go to class," she said, gazing at Albus and Lily. "Harry…"
Harry nodded and ushered Albus and Lily out, "Not a word," he whispered softly.
Albus and Lily nodded before walking off together. Harry, meanwhile, walked off in the direction of the dungeons because he wanted to thank Kaysar and Professor Snape for helping James. As he went into the dungeons, however, he heard violent retching.
Terrified, Harry followed the sounds and was horrified to see Severus retching into a cauldron on his desk while holding a vial of potion in one hand, "Professor?" he asked in a concerned voice, frowning when he saw Severus look at him. "Are you all right?"
Severus scowled, "I was delivering a restock of Dreamless Sleep to the Hospital Wing when I overheard your son share what Dolores Umbridge had done to him and I am to blame more than you," he replied shakily. "I had no idea that Umbridge would attempt to resurrect the breeding program that Voldemort attempted to use…"
"Breeding program?" Harry asked anxiously. "Why didn't he just have a kid?"
Severus exhaled and faltered, prompting Harry to help him sit in a chair and use his wand to conjure a glass of water. He handed Severus the glass and watched as it was drained in an instant, "Voldemort was conceived with a love potion and did not have the ability to reproduce, but he wanted posterity to raise. Several of us were marked as potential donors and the female death eaters took us as he commanded."
"Willingly or through the Imperius?" Harry asked in a confused voice.
Severus scoffed, "Really, Potter, when did Voldemort ever care about asking permission?" he asked in a tired voice. "Needless to say, the breeding program was unsuccessful and Voldemort never got his heir. He did try to adopt sons of his followers as heirs, but those picked were resistant even after great torture."
"You mean Kadir is not one of Voldemort's heirs?" Harry asked quietly.
Severus shook his head, "Nobody knows anything of Kadir's origins except perhaps Deputy Headmaster Linnis, but that is one facet of knowledge not widely available like information on Voldemort's lineage was," he replied softly, exhaling again.
"Do you want me to get someone?" Harry asked worriedly. "You were just sick."
Severus sighed irritably, "I do not need someone to declare me mentally addled and lock me up in St. Mungo's," he replied quietly. "I have my own methods with which I deal with the memories of my past and deviating will only invite scrutiny."
Just then, Colin came into view and rapped on the door, "You're Professor Snape, right?" he asked softly, freezing when he saw Harry there. "Um, hi, Auror Potter."
"I heard that you are a Potions Master," Colin spoke quietly. "Can you help my Mum?"
Harry sighed, "Your Mum's condition can't be cured, Colin," he replied softly. "I already told you that when I helped your family move over here."
Severus's eyes narrowed, "Your mother is a werewolf, as I heard Mister Caulay yell," he reasoned quietly. "Am I correct in what I heard?"
"Yeah," Colin replied anxiously. "We started out going to Ilvermony, but MACUSA's gotten weird in the last few years and they kept visiting us at school for our protection because of what Mum is. Dad finally had enough and asked the Minister over here for help to run, so he asked Auror Potter to help us. We live deep in the countryside."
Severus raised an eyebrow, "Who is your mother?" he asked quietly.
"Lavender Brown," Harry spoke softly. "She was savaged by Greyback during the Battle of Hogwarts, but she survived and Seamus fled to America with her as soon as they could get away. They married and lived as Muggles as much as they could, but Ilvermony ordered their children to school when they were of age and MACUSA…"
Severus looked uneasy, "The Wolfsbane Potion would allow some comfort to your mother, but I highly doubt she would accept help of any kind from me," he replied.
"I can talk to Seamus," Harry offered anxiously. "If you let me…"
Severus gave a nod and turned away, prompting Harry to usher Colin out, "Please, Auror Potter, can you get him to help my mum?" Colin asked as they walked up out of the dungeons. "Dad locks her in a cellar when it's her time and it's painful…"
"I can try," Harry replied in a concerned voice, his heart going out to Lavender.
Amanda Darmouth, the twin sister that Alana had spoken so fondly of during the brief time that Kadir had attempted to mate them, was getting married and Linus found himself relieved. Alana had worried what would become of her sister and the baby she had carried, but it seemed everything had worked out for the best.
The teachers were all abuzz about Amanda marrying a seventh year named Louis Weasley that very evening and him adopting Tom down the line. Linus was deeply relieved that Alana's son would be safe and loved; he had loved Alana, but her heart had grown cold over the course of being with Kadir and Kadir had sent him away because he needed her for other purposes. Linus had gone willingly, but angrily.
He had come back to find Alana pregnant and Kadir had refused to explain, warning Linus that snooping would only get him killed. That had soured his belief in Kadir and now that his grandmother and aspirations at MACUSA had been destroyed by someone who had gotten a simple house arrest after making a donation to smooth things over, Linus Picquery HATED anything to do with Kadir or Lucius Malfoy.
Not wanting to force Amanda to face reminders of her sister that might spoil her special day, Linus had hidden in his office most the day and was intending to get a House Elf to bring him dinner in the evening. His plans were to eat and then take a walk to Hogsmeade to see if any of his fellow evacuees needed anything.
As Linus stood and stretched, however, there was a knock at his door, "Come in," he replied in a calm voice, sighing when the door opened and Headmistress McGonagall came in with Roger at her heels, both of them sporting somber expressions.
"Linus, they found your grandmother's body," Roger spoke quietly. "Minister Shacklebolt had it brought through the Floo so you can decide what…"
Linus frowned, "There's a Wizarding Cemetery just outside of Hogsmeade, isn't there?" he asked in a confused voice. "It's one of the things I learned about when reading up on the school and its more modern history. It was originally made for all of those who died in the Battle of Hogwarts, but I think the bodies from MACUSA…"
"Minister Shacklebolt offered them a place there too, yes," Roger replied softly. "It would have attracted too much attention if we did massive burials back home. Besides, the current regime didn't like us having wizarding funerals. They especially didn't like us burying our kind among No-Maj's because if someone tried to vandalize a wizarding grave, they'd be Cursed and questions would arise…"
Headmistress McGonagall looked shocked, but nodded politely, "I know you're shocked, Headmistress, but Wizarding America is very complicated and a lot stricter than over here," Linus explained. "When magical children turn 11 years old, they are ordered to school or told to live as No-Maj's. There are no options for magical homeschooling over there because the No-Maj's might see, so those who don't want to go to Ilvermony are forced to homeschool as No-Maj's or else face penalties."
"I…I'd like to bury her tonight in Hogsmeade Cemetery while everyone is at that wedding I heard about," Linus spoke quietly. "A service can be held later…"
Headmistress McGonagall nodded, her expression sympathetic at his loss.
"…As the Head of the Weasley Family, it is my privilege and honor to officiate the bonding of Louis Weasley and Amanda Darmouth," Mr. Weasley spoke in a kind voice, smiling as Louis and Amanda stood before him. "The Weasley family is an ancient wizarding house and as such, is entitled to celebrate such important occasions when the opportunity arises. Their request for it to be at Hogwarts makes it all the more special, as this is where they met and this is where their love began…"
The four House tables had been replaced by many circular ones for the evening and the Great Hall was decorated with flowers, baubles, and streamers of every kind that the clan could get at short notice. Dinner had been held first so that those who didn't want to attend the wedding did not have to, but most of the students had wanted to attend the wedding; such an event meant treats and a lenient curfew that night.
Mrs. Weasley sat at the family table with Bill, Fleur, Victoire, Teddy, Charlie, Stacey, Percy, LeighAnn, George, Angelina, Ron, Hermione, Harry, Ginny, Aaron, and Amelia. The Weasleys had brought Michael, Andrew, Charity, and Charlie with them and the House Elves were looking after them in a quiet room during the ceremony.
That table was near the front of the hall along with another table where Dominique, Molly, Lucy, Fred, Roxane, Hugo, Rose, James, Albus, Remus, Rianna, Lily, and Tom all sat. Tradition called for all members of the families to sit at the front of the crowd during a marriage ceremony and Aaron had offered to represent Amanda's family for the ceremony, as her sister and parents were dead. Amanda had gratefully accepted.
Headmistress McGonagall, Neville, Hagrid, and many other students had also chosen to stay for the ceremony. There were students and staff, however, who had excused themselves after supper and a few staff had even gone to Hogsmeade for the burial.
As he himself had not been considered family enough to sit with Dominique, Collins was seated at a table in the middle of the hall. He saw that Allison Longbottom was sitting with Adrian, Scorpius, Adeleina, Lorcan, and Lysander at a table closer to the front with their focus on the ceremony. Collins, however, was thinking of the future.
The Umbridge Vault and lands were now his, as he was of age and only came back to finish school because a completed education would help him find work later. Unfortunately for him, many in the wizarding world were worried about how he would turn out because of who his aunt was and because he had ended up killing her without hesitation. Never mind that it had been done to save Dominique's life; using the Killing Curse so casually was frowned upon by many, including the Weasleys.
A flurry of applause suddenly broke out and a gold light filled the hall as Mr. Weasley declared Amanda and Louis bonded for life. Noise quickly filled the hall and Collins got up as quietly as possible, knowing that he wouldn't be able to even socialize with Dominique or any of his younger friends until tomorrow because of the reception. He intended to excuse himself from the party so he wouldn't be subject to scrutiny.
In the midst of the noise, Collins hadn't noticed that Dominique had gotten up from her table and was now close to him, "Alex," Dominique spoke softly, frowning.
"A few of the students went to their Common Rooms after dinner, so I'm going to check on them," Collins spoke quietly. "Domi, I know I'm not welcome by some…"
Dominique sighed and took his hands in her own, "I hate how my family is wary of you because of who your aunt is," she spoke softly. "They were fine with you when you first got out of the hospital, but things changed. I don't know what happened…"
"The attacks happened," Collins replied softly. "I'll see you tomorrow, all right?"
Dominique hugged Collins before going to where Louis and Amanda were now standing, receiving congratulations as they signed the marriage paperwork, "Congratulations, little brother," she spoke in a warm voice. "Amanda, congrats."
Amanda smiled, but her eyes were filled with worry, "You look sad," she replied.
"Oh, I'm sick of how people are treating Alex because of these attacks and because of who his aunt is," Dominique replied crossly. "Once Uncle Ron helped Collins get access to the Umbridge Vault, Grandma and Grandpa suggested it might be a good idea for him to get to know what he owned. After the attacks, they practically kicked him out the door and he went to King's Cross alone today. I'm so upset about that."
Just then, Bill, Fleur, and Victoire walked over to greet Louis and Amanda, so Dominique moved away to calm herself and hoped that Collins would be all right.
Seraphina Picquery's lifeless body lay in a casket that Kingsley had picked out after quickly getting her body to Britain through the Floo Network. That casket sat at the back of the Hogsmeade Cemetery in a space that wasn't overrun by graves or debris.
Kingsley stood alone at the site, sighing quietly as Roger and Linus approached him after walking there from Hogwarts. Both men were clad in mourning black from head to toe and Linus suddenly looked older, as if the news had sucked the life out of him.
"The other evacuees wanted to be here, but I promised them that your grandmother would be publicly honored later on with the rest of those who died in the MACUSA attacks and so they decided to leave you to do the burial privately…" Kingsley replied quietly. "She suffered smoke inhalation and severe burns…"
Linus put up a hand to stop Kingsley, "I do not need a graphic description of what her body looks like," he replied quietly. "She is dead and I would like to bury her."
Kingsley nodded, his expression somber, "I assure you, her grave will be enchanted against vandalism and robbery," he gently promised. "Do you wish to…?"
Swallowing hard, Linus raised his wand and within moments, a silver headstone with a dark base stood where the casket had once been. Seraphina's full name, birth, and death was engraved on the tombstone along with the words Beloved Grandmother.
Suddenly, hundreds of small lights illuminated the dark night and Linus realized that they were candles raised by the survivors; they were obviously watching the ceremony from the camp and wanted to pay their respects as quietly as possible.
"I promise you, Grandmother, your sacrifice will not be in vain," Linus spoke in a quiet, somber whisper as he touched the casket and caressed it. "I promise…"
The year at Hogwarts would prove to be what he needed to sort his mind and feelings out. It was clear that Kadir and Lucius were now at odds now that the plan to take over MACUSA and the Ministry of Magic had been destroyed by careless vengeance.
Serving as an educational assistant at Hogwarts would give him a better idea of what the British Wizarding World was like and whether or not it was actually feasible to ursurp the post-Voldemort world. Kadir had told him to focus on his family priorities and grow to a stature where he could be of more help, but his family was now gone. All he had left was the position at Hogwarts, a burden of grief, and angry determination.
Please read and review!
