Chapter #06
On the Diagon Alley
The sun was already high in the sky when Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny were cleaning the next room at house number twelve Grimmauld Place. Although no one had to say it out loud, it was mutually agreed that Sirius' bedroom was off-limits. Harry didn't even try to enter it once. His godfather was avoided in every conversation.
The days passed quickly. Friends have long forgotten about Regulus Black room and were now stuck on the second floor, not even noticing that August has nearly finished.
Less than a week before the end of the summer holidays they couldn't feel their hands anymore, but they made it: at least two top floors have changed beyond recognition. Now the place looked a lot nicer and brighter. Old, dirty wallpapers and damaged furniture have been repaired by Mrs Weasley, and the flooring and curtains washed. Harry thought for a brief moment that once it must had been a really nice and well-kept house.
"Excellent work, kids," said Mrs Weasley proudly. "Let's take a break and tomorrow you could start on the lower floor. You could do one more room before returning to Hogwarts."
They groaned in disappointment.
"But mum," Ginny grabbed her mother by the elbow. "Why do we have to do this? After all, Bill or someone else could handle this in no time using a wand."
"They are very busy, apart from going to work they also deal with matters of the Order of the Phoenix, so they need some rest."
"And what about us? Don't we need to rest at all?!" Ron echoed his sister.
"You have got holidays, please do not..."
"Exactly, we have HOLIDAYS!"
"...Do not expect that you are allowed to do absolutely nothing only because you've got a summer break. It's about time you have some responsibilities," Mrs Weasley concluded. "And don't compare Bill's or your father's errands for the Order of the Phoenix with sweeping some dust, young man."
"So what do they actually do?"
"We had this conversation before, I don't want to repeat myself."
The kids walked down the stairs without saying a word, you could feel the tension and anger in the air. They were working here from the first day of their arrival, seeing no one but the old tapestries and spiders. They couldn't even ask questions about the Order of the Phoenix. Once they tried to eavesdrop on them when a few members dropped by, but Mrs Weasley caught them. They never suspected that someone might be able to shout louder than the portrait of Sirius' mother. She locked Ron, Ginny, Harry and Hermione in a room using several spells so that they couldn't open the door till the meeting ended. Angry, they were tossing all items into 'to bin' boxes, not caring about their value. Even Ron had damaged a golden candlestick, while previously he was cautious with all valuable possessions.
In their bedrooms, you could still see torn envelopes on the bedside tables. About ten days ago, Mrs Weasley called them into the living room and handed them letters from Hogwarts, which Arthur had picked up from the Burrow. Thanks to Fidelius Charm protecting the Black family house, and Dumbledore's additional efforts, the Order of the Phoenix managed to trick the post, and nobody knew that Harry was actually in London.
The long-awaited OWLs results have arrived. Harry received 'Outstanding' in the Defence Against the Dark Arts; 'Exceeds Expectations' in Care of Magical Creatures, Charms, Herbology, Potions and Transfiguration; scored 'Acceptable' in Astronomy; 'Poor' in Divination, and 'Dreadful' in History of Magic. So after all the commotion on the fifth year at Hogwarts and difficulties caused by Dolores Umbridge, it wasn't that bad. Harry expected that he would definitely fail at these two subjects.
Ron also did not pass Divination and History of Magic, but he had no 'Outstanding' mark.
"Look, our results are nearly the same," he called happily. "How are yours, Hermione?"
On the other hand, Hermione scored as many as ten 'Outstanding', and one 'Exceeds Expectations' in the Defence Against the Dark Arts. It was no surprise for Harry that Hermione received such great results. However, he felt a bit of pride that he had managed to achieve a bit higher grade than her in at least one subject. The Defence Against the Dark Arts was his favourite class.
"Well done, Ron. Seven OWLs! That's more than Fred and George's combined!" cried Mrs Weasley proudly.
After the celebration dinner, Harry began reading the book about the Aurors that Tonks gave him for his birthday. But he was treating it more as a goodbye. He knew that Snape will do anything in his power to stop him from entering his classes, and wouldn't accept any mark but 'Outstanding'. And without taking Potions at NEWT exam, there was no chance of entering the Auror training.
Hermione was reading 'Ancient Runes, advanced level, Grade Six'; and Ron and his sister played Exploding Snap. They were sitting in the drawing room, the olive-green walls were covered with weaned tapestries and the windows with long mossy velvet curtains. One of the tapestries, which was embroidered with gold threads, has faded. It showed an extensive Black family tree; but it was gnawed by Doxies and had burned holes in many places, all bottom part was shabby. When Harry saw the damaged part where 'Sirius Black' name used to be, he turned his gaze, leapt to his feet and headed to the bedroom. Harry still could not get used to it; looking at anything referring to Sirius hurt. And yet, he had to stay in this house till 1st of September; if he knew what was coming before leaving Privet Drive, Harry would prefer to spend this summer with his uncle and aunt.
As Harry was walking up the stairs, he noticed the door at the end of the corridor. He remembered that last year when he first visited Grimmauld Place, no one could open this room. There were also a few more places in the house protected by extra spells, but nobody ever bothered to deal with them - like with the cupboard by the site Kreacher used to sleep. Maybe Harry was exhausted because all this cleaning has wholly drained out his energy and too preoccupied with his thoughts to notice it earlier - but he could have sworn the door was now a little ajar.
He decided to take a chance and get a closer look. Harry approached the room carefully as you could never know what you can find in an old Wizards' house. Also, his wand was locked somewhere inside his school trunk.
He checked. Yes, they were unlocked, he just had to push them slightly. Harry put his ear close to the door and listened for the slightest noise, but there was no sound coming from the inside. He pushed the handle carefully, afraid that some pixies or other creatures would jump at him. The solid wooden door opened slowly with a squeak.
There was nearly no air inside but dust as if no one had opened the room for at least a decade. No light was coming in, so Harry left the door wide open to see anything. It was an old, dusty office, nearly empty, with a small bookshelf full of handbooks about running a house, jewellery catalogues and other guidebooks. There has also been a broken desk and a small sofa in the corner of the room. The fireplace and the window were boarded. The chamber was different than the others in the house. It kind of reminded Harry a place that someone arranged quite hastily by removing all valuable possessions and leaving behind these of no importance. There was no silver, paintings, precious books or family heirlooms. And on the wall, just above the lintel, some signs were painted using ancient runes alphabet. Harry has seen such stuff all over the house, either drawn on the floor or walls (all cleared now by Mrs Weasley), and talismans tossed in every corner. He even decided to keep a few. Harry was actually wearing one right now with lucky charms – Hermione has been very helpful and translated some of them, but she didn't want any for herself. Instead, Ginny took one of the necklaces with runes engraved on small stones and changed it into a bracelet.
There was a very thick layer of dust on the wooden floor but also relatively fresh footprints. Someone must have been here a few weeks ago, but it looked that the person only walked around the room, stopping by some broken cabinet. Harry followed these steps, and understood why the person decided to halt; one of the small floor panels was loose. Harry lifted it to see there was a narrow hiding space, but it was empty. Whoever has been here, he knew where to look. That made Harry a little worried, but at the same time, no outsider would ever get into the headquarters. It could have been only a member of the Order of the Phoenix. Harry knew he should not get distressed by something like that. Still, the idea that a wizard was looking for, or took an object hidden inside a room that remained locked for so long was troubling him.
Harry got back to the bedroom he and Ron shared. He was still deep in thoughts and decided that it was a sign to start preparing for the new school year and undertake intensive training in the Defence Against the Dark Arts. He couldn't use a wand right now, but before their first year at Hogwarts began, Hermione had memorised many spells; so why couldn't he try doing the same thing? Harry received a few days ago a late birthday present (and an award for passing the OWLs) from Lupin: 'Defence spells for upper intermediate'.
"Why not start now?" Harry turned the pages, hoping that he would learn anything useful.
Alastor Moody and Nymphadora Tonks were walking quickly between tall buildings, alerted and trying to avoid Muggles. There were not many of them outside though, because for the past couple of weeks weather was terrible – storms, dense fog and cold. Therefore, no one was going out, other than to quickly commute to work or a grocery shop.
They encircled the area, not risking getting too close to an abandoned red-brick department store. Behind it, there was St Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries. But both Aurors were looking for another way in. A few blocks away, there was a narrow dead-end alleyway and deserted newsagent kiosk. That was an entrance to a small, secret hospital wing. Of course, no Muggle will ever notice the old booth or even bother to look on that side of the road. Like any other magical place or object, it was protected from Muggles by various spells. What's more, not many wizards, but a few long-serving Aurors knew about this wing's existence; it was in use only in exceptional circumstances.
Alastor and Nymphadora opened a back door of the kiosk and entered a dark corridor; it was a second time they were sneaking in this way. After a short walk, they moved into a small reception hall with white walls. No one was around; a cold cup of tea was standing on the desk. A few doors led into a staff room, emergency room, and rehabilitation room from the oval reception.
A man reluctantly greeted them when the Aurors opened the last door. He was sitting on a sofa, wearing dressing-gown and reading the Daily Prophet. He placed the paper on a coffee table in front of him when he heard them coming in. Instead of having guests again, the wizard preferred to be left alone. It was not happening often, but these visits were a little distracting and upsetting.
Alastor and Nymphadora sat on the opposite side, each grabbing a folding chair.
"It's good to see you. You look much better," said Tonks, and she meant it. "Are you trying to keep up with all headlines?" she asked, noticing a pile of old newspapers lying aside.
The Aurors waited for the man to say something. His shoulder-length black hair fell over his face. After a long silence, he brushed them away with his hand and turned to Nymphadora, she had her bright purple hair back on.
Sirius Black now looked much younger than he was a few months prior. Nearly as though he had stepped back in time and did not go through Azkaban, which ruined his health and physical appearance. Sirius no longer had such visible deep wrinkles, or waxy skin stretched tightly over the bones of his face. He gave the impression of being at least ten years younger.
"Did Augustus let you in?" he asked in a hoarse voice.
He was not talking with anyone too often; Sirius was exchanging only some courtesy with the Healers. And when he was brought here nearly a month ago, at the time, Sirius did not have a word with Dumbledore or Tonks. He was still in deep shock after escaping from underneath the archway in the Department of Mysteries; recollecting what he had seen and how he walked out of there. It was only a week later when the wizard had a long conversation with Hogwarts headmaster. There were lots of nerves, accusations and shouts mainly due to Sirius short temper. And a few days later, Remus Lupin and Alastor Moody popped in with a quick visit, just to see if he needed anything. But there wasn't much to do, other than reading newspapers and catching on some sleep when he was too tired of having constant battles in his head. A large pile of the Daily Prophet was still lying somewhere in the corner of the chamber. Thanks to it, Sirius had a slight idea of what was going on in the wizarding world. The Ministry of Magic started to clear his name from previous charges. But he has also read about multiple attacks on both Muggles and wizards; mysterious disappearances; Dementors abandoning Azkaban, and more.
"No, everyone is on duty at the hospital. The main one. But we knew the way in, don't you worry." said the Mad-Eye.
"I know that Dumbledore must have told you already. Why are you here?" Sirius got straight to the point. "He did something, didn't he?" the man asked quickly with trembling but raging voice. "I knew it was only a matter of days before he loses it."
"The dog is probably causing lots of turmoil somewhere; he was working on the climate control," said Alastor. "But that's not the reason we are here."
"We just wanted to make sure you are ready." explained Tonks.
Sirius could not focus. He was ashamed, and deep down he knew that the Order of the Phoenix was judging him now, and he couldn't blame them. Yes, Sirius wanted to get back and start working for the Order again; however, he was getting more and more anxious because of the 'additional support' arranged by Dumbledore. Never in his life he envisaged that he would have to cross paths with them again. He was not ready for this part.
"What made Albus to…" croaked Sirius, swallowing loudly after every single word. He knew this game cannot end well.
"Apparently, only he could bring you back. But are you listening to yourself?" Tonks exclaimed. "You don't even know what I was going through, what WE ALL were going through. You should be grateful."
"I am... but..."
"But why didn't you say anything?" Moody's both eyes focused on Sirius. "It is a very grievous situation we are in." he emphasised.
"It's not important. Besides, that was none of your business."
"Well, now it is, and everyone has to cope with it. You tried to bury this down, but in the end, it hit you back with more force."
"I told Dumbledore that it would have been better for everyone to leave me under the archway and not contact them at all. What were you trying to achieve?"
"How can you say something like that?" cried Tonks astounded. "You are talking about your life!"
Sirius has lost his patience:
"Because I know who they are. I have seen it in my own eyes! Have you lost your mind?!"
"We were offered a hope to save your life!" called Tonks. "How could you expect us to reject it?"
"And what did they take in exchange, huh?" he asked. "There are no favours, only the trade. You have invited them here, on this island which they would now treat as a private playground. Are you absolutely sure that only the Death Eaters are liable for all these disappearances I have read about in the Daily Prophet?"
"You are exaggerating." said Tonks walking to the sink, pouring herself a glass of water and drinking it fast.
"You don't know anything, how would you? Involving a bunch of lunatics with the Order of the Phoenix, keeping them close to what is being discussed, all our plans, and close to Harry!" Sirius shouted, standing up and walking back and forwards. "We were doing fine, without this good for nothing help, as Dumbledore calls it. And nobody stopped him? Were you just looking completely mute as he brings in these nutjobs to the headquarter?"
"I was against it," said Alastor. "But Dumbledore announced his plan after he already agreed on some terms with them. Besides, Albus disclosed information about the headquarter only to the Hound and one of his crazy mates."
Sirius laughed.
"Of course he did, he puts everyone's life on the line. And then Dumbledore dares to do this to me? To torment me? This is all his fault, his and my brother's!"
"Oh, so are you trying to say that none of this is your responsibility?"
"I'm not having this discussion with you, you are not involved," said Sirius angrily and Tonks filled another glass of water. "I don't want it, I never wanted it. How could he?! Of course it's Dumbledore's fault. He knew the risk."
"You cannot possibly..."
"What did you want me to do back then?!" Sirius shouted, interrupting Tonks in mid-sentence.
"I believe we should leave the past behind and deal with current affairs. You cannot change what's already happened," said Moody. Tonks sat back, she was aggrieved and holding glass of water tightly in her hands. "We would need your help, Sirius. Anything we could use to prepare for the worst."
"It's insane," said Sirius still standing and resting arms on the back of the sofa. "Dumbledore is trying to reason with someone you cannot compromise with. You will never understand him," he said, pointing at Moody. "And neither will Dumbledore. What the hell was he thinking? How could he do this to me?"
"You are trying to sound like you know any of it," said Tonks, who drank some more water. "You didn't have many chances when you were locked in Azkaban."
"I had seen enough before I was imprisoned," said Sirius sharply. "I witnessed what the Hound is capable of. And how old was he back then? Do you think it got any better over the years? He was a lost cause since the very beginning. And before that, I stuck around at this so-called institution run by Nathan Sabo, I know what his priorities are; he would sell his soul to gain more power. Voldemort tried to recruit Sabo in the past, what's stopping him from trying again? Definitely not this bloody forest, not anymore!" shouted Sirius. "And Sabo wouldn't ship the Hound here if they didn't have any ill-intended scheme planned," he continued angrily. "The dog has no conscience; he won't care how much mayhem is caused."
"He's got a name, you know."
"Oh yeah?" Sirius asked her jeeringly. "Then go and ask him about his real name. I'm wondering how he would react. You have spent some time together now, Dumbledore told me how you helped stop Wizengamot session in the last minute. So tell me, please, is he amicable?"
Tonks was staring at her empty glass.
"He can be challenging." she admitted not looking away from the glass.
"We have to think how to take back the control," added Moody. "Dumbledore also didn't say anything for years, and it was Albus action that led to this bastard finally joining Sabo's side. These jackasses became more dangerous by having him in their ranks. And now, it's used as an excuse to get closer to the Order."
"You really shouldn't be saying that, Moody," said Tonks glancing at Sirius, but he was staring at the floor. "I trust Dumbledore. He had a reason."
"It's bad news, that's a fact," declared the Auror. "I don't know what Dumbledore is up to, but he shouldn't have faith in everyone here and there, or it will end badly for all of us. It must have been high-priority, life and death matter if Albus decided to involve these barbarians. But the end does not justify the means. I'm sorry to say it Sirius, but if the Hound ended up in this group, it's obvious that he has quite the character. He met his match. Also, we should not forget about his, ermm, lineage and background."
"That's what I'm most afraid of," admitted Sirius. "There were some issues in the past, and Dumbledore was aware of them. Yet, he decided to bring the Order of the Phoenix into this."
"The older he is, the weirder he gets. He said something about 'fixing mistakes', but I think he's making even bigger one right now," the Mad-Eye muttered. "Especially after what had happened to Remus."
"How is he doing now?" asked Sirius, clearing his throat.
"He's better," Tonks breathed in heavily. "He's been in and out of the hospital, but now he's really okay. Well, apart from one tooth, they couldn't save it; but we were more worried about his hand. The Healer said there was a risk the nerves could be damaged permanently... But it's great that your results are good, Sirius. They also rejuvenated you a bit. Potions are really an amazing discipline. Cyrus is incredible, maybe he should be teaching a different subject?" said Tonks more merrily.
"He seems to know what he's doing," Sirius admitted. "Listen, I know that Albus has good intentions, but he's creating more and more drama. I'm not sure whom Augustus or the other Healer... Elfrida were more terrified to meet here, the Hound or Cyrus Farel."
"What do you mean by that?"
"I'll explain you later." said Tonks.
"Did the beast also fall out with your Healers?"
"Please, stop it, Moody. I don't want to think about it right now," Sirius grabbed his head. "It's difficult enough as it is. The most important thing now is to protect the Order of the Phoenix and Harry. I should be there, it's my duty."
"Dumbledore allowed it, but I don't think it's the right moment. You should spend some more time in hiding," said Moody. "Voldemort will figure something is up when one of his spies reports to him that you are back with the living."
"I bet that Dumbledore will ask Snape to pass him this information sooner or later if he hasn't already done so," Sirius remarked. "Besides, Voldemort probably knew that Sabo and his gang are here the minute they stepped a foot in the UK. But let them gamble; it's not our problem what they will do once they confront Voldemort."
"Sirius, please," said Tonks feeling uncomfortable. "I think you are going too far."
"For me, Harry's safety is all that matters. I want you to let Albus know that I agree and want to see Harry asap. I've already lost a lot of time. Also, I owe him an explanation."
"Are you really going to tell him?" asked the Mad-Eye.
"I never thought anyone would learn about this, but since Dumbledore wants to sign a contract with them, I want Harry to find out from me... They call themselves Nauthiz, right?"
"Yes."
Moody and Tonks got up from their chairs.
"Be careful, Sirius," said Moody. "You couldn't follow all news when you were in Azkaban and then in hiding. Sabo is now an important figure. His political party controls half of South America, and he tries to push his utopia of abolishing the Statute of Secrecy by the back door. Obviously, he sees an opportunity here as the country is destabilised because of Voldemort and his actions."
"What's your point?"
"Do not focus only on the Hound, he's just a wild kid. Look at the bigger picture and don't get yourself distracted."
"This kid is taller than me now, running loose completely unrestricted thanks to Dumbledore. There was a reason, I... Just, be careful all of you, okay? And if he tries anything, I will be there to stop him."
"Right," said Moody doubtfully. "But I hope it won't be necessary. Just try to remain calm and don't provoke anything, are you with me? You also can be quite impulsive."
"He hates me, right?" asked Sirius as it concerned him for quite a while.
"It doesn't seem so. Honestly, I don't think he cares," said Alastor and he and Nymphadora headed towards the exit. "But don't let your guard down, we need your full attention, on all points."
"Moody, we should better go to Hogwarts and notify Albus," said Tonks sadly. "We shall see you soon, Sirius. Take care."
They stepped out into the entry hall and disappeared through the door that led back to the Muggle world.
Rain clouds were gathering outside, but the fog was getting less intense.
"He needs help. It's going to be extremely challenging for him," said Tonks as they avoided a group of people gathering by a bus stop. "And have you heard how he was talking? Of course, I'm aware that Harry is our prime concern, but Sirius should now shift his priorities a bit."
"And are you trying to work out that miracle?"
"I'm trying, I really am."
The next day, Harry woke up disappointed. In the book Lupin gave him, there was very little theory that would allow him to learn without the aid of a wand. Therefore, he was repeating names of spells many times over. Harry decided he would have to find an empty class to practice at Hogwarts. He did at times consider re-establishing Dumbledore's Army, but it would only have to be open to those who fought alongside him at the Ministry as no one else responded to his call for help.
Ron was no longer in the room, he was always getting up early when Fleur had a day off work; that allowed him having breakfast together.
Harry thought that he should also start getting ready. Yesterday after dinner, Mrs Weasley announced that they would go shopping today to Diagon Alley. It was the last day of the summer holidays. Harry couldn't wait to go back to school.
Their trunks were open, ready for new books and equipment. Hedwig also was very eager to return to Hogwarts, as she could not fly outside Grimmauld Place too often. It was too easy to recognise her.
Harry has left books from the previous school year in a spare bedroom at Grimmauld Place. He was not going to carry them again since he did not intend to return to Privet Drive.
Harry got dressed and went down to the kitchen; he smelled scrambled eggs, toasts and fried bacon.
"Oh hello, I was just about to call you." said Mrs Weasley.
"Morning." he sat down between Hermione and Ginny. Harry was tired, the nightmares were not stopping. He dreamt about the Department of Mysteries again, and the whole time when he was walking around shelves filled with prophecies, he felt that something was watching him.
The door opened, and Ron entered the kitchen, dressed in his best robes, and smelling like he had a bath in all Bill's Cologne.
"Dad!" he shouted, surprised.
Only now Harry realised that Mr Weasley was sitting at the far end of the table, but not only him. Remus Lupin was also there. He had not seen them both for days and was very positively surprised. Lupin looked much better now. His nose was still a bit snapped but the bruises healed up nicely.
"Why are you so puzzled?" Mr Weasley asked briskly. "They do not keep me locked in the office all the time... Well, they would like to, but there is no space to sleep."
"Did you break into a perfume store?" asked Ginny, coughing when Ron walked behind her, trying to sit as close to Fleur as possible.
"I hope we are not interrupting you, are we? How did you think you will get to Diagon Alley?" asked Mr Weasley. "You are probably fed up with all this cleaning?"
They nodded affirmatively.
"I'm not surprised. I don't know how Muggles can do it without wands. And here, the house was so neglected it would have been probably better to demolish it and build a new one in its place."
They break the fast together. Mr Weasley was discussing with Lupin the latest news from the Daily Prophet.
"The fog had moved to the south of the country, normal weather returns. And finally, the Ministry was able to share some good information about the newly chosen Chief Warlock. He is on our side."
"Arthur, Fudge is controlling the Prophet. You won't even believe how many things have been covered or made up. I would be careful with declaring a success before we actually see what Atticus Clagg has to offer. However, I must admit that Dementors' retreat is terrific. We were waiting for this news for days. Thanks to this, they will not ask for Fudge's resignation too quickly."
"What Dementors have to do with a fog?" Ron asked. "Would you like some more toasts, Fleur? I can make you one. My cooking skills improved a lot."
"Fog means they're multiplying." Hermione explained, looking a bit miffed because Ron kept staring admiringly at Fleur.
Soon after arrival at Grimmauld Place, Hermione, together with Ginny, joined Fleur's anti club. Every time Bill's girlfriend was in the same room as them, Hermione and Ginny would quickly leave and spend the whole day not speaking to Ron. All because of his failing attempts to make a positive impression on Fleur.
"Before we leave, I want to see your shopping lists." Molly started clearing plates from the table, but Ron and Ginny were not listening. Ron was staring at his brother's fiancée with the same passion he was looking at silver goblets he was polishing but wanted to keep for himself. At the same time, Ginny had murder in her eyes.
"Bill has already picked up some gold from Gringotts. So I, Bill, Fleur, Remus, Ginny, and Hermione will get potions ingredients, parchments, stationery and something for pets. Arthur, Edward, Harry and Ron will buy books. We are going to meet at Madame Maklin's, at say half-past eleven. Then we'll go together to Fred and George's joke shop."
When Ginny heard she was going shopping together with Phlegm, she softly groaned and clutched her head.
"With who? Who's Edward?" Harry asked loudly.
"One of the wizards who has been protecting the house the whole summer, making sure we are safe."
"Look at that, we'll see someone else for more than five minutes. Our own bodyguard will escort us to the store. That's a privilege," Ron looked down from Fleur for a moment and finished eating a piece of bacon. "Next time you know it, they will allow us to hold a newspaper for a few seconds."
"You still have time to double-check what you need. We'll be leaving in half an hour."
"Then why did we have to get up so early?" Ron yawned as they were climbing the stairs. "I could have slept a bit longer." he yawned again, demonstratively.
"You wouldn't," Ginny disagreed immediately. "You got up at dawn to dress up and probably used all perfumes in the house. Are you trying to seduce Fleur by smelling like Sybill Trelawney?"
"I will pretend I didn't hear this rubbish."
"You should, and hear my advice: get yourself a girlfriend. Not Phlegm, but someone your age. Oh, and please take a shower before we leave, I can smell you from a mile."
Upstairs, Harry pulled out the list of books he had received together with his OWLs results and a letter from Hogwarts. He will get a new set of robes at Madame Maklin's but didn't have to prepare a list of stationary because he had received the whole batch from Hermione for his birthday. Just in case, Harry noted on a separate list that he would need a few more scrolls of parchment and was ready to go. He exited the bedroom leaving Ron contemplating over his own shopping list.
"No, I don't think she'll agree on colour-changing ink." he heard his friend mumble and shut the door.
Lupin was sitting in the drawing room, chatting with Mr Weasley about his work.
"How are you feeling, Harry? In good spirit? Tomorrow at this time you will be heading to catch Hogwarts Express."
"Yes, it's been a while. How are we getting there?"
"Apparition, most likely."
"Is your list ready, my dear?" Mrs Weasley interrupted.
"Yes, I would only need some parchment please."
"No potions ingredients, anything else for your classes?"
"No, Snape will not allow me joining his class. I've only had got an 'E' in the exam."
Harry sat on the chair; with such a result, he can easily forget about becoming an Auror. He could imagine that Snape was definitely opening a bottle of champagne right now and celebrating after hearing that Harry didn't get an 'O'. He wondered if Snape could have thrown a party in his office, inviting Umbridge and all Slytherins.
As he was staring at some old tapestry, he heard footsteps on the staircase above.
"Alright, it's time for us to go." Lupin led the way. Behind him, Hermione, Fleur, Bill, Ginny and Molly Weasley were moving one by one carefully, trying not to wake up Walburga Black's portrait.
"We should also shoot off. Kids, remember to stick together." Mr Weasley pushed them forward, closing the door behind.
The sun blinded them once they entered the courtyard. For the past couple weeks, everyone got used to bad weather - there was either a storm, or a fog thick as milk, but now there was no cloud in the sky. It hasn't been so hot for a long time. It was most likely due to Dementors return to Azkaban. Harry was wondering what could have made them do so? Maybe the Ministry of Magic has regained control of them, or it was a consequence of one of the secret missions that Lupin didn't want to disclose?
A wizard was waiting for them a few yards away. Mr Weasley grabbed Harry and his son by the forearm and they Apparated. Harry felt an unpleasant grip in his stomach again, he was out of breath. When he was able to breathe normally again, he noticed that the Hit Wizard they met before was impatiently looking at them.
There were much fewer people on the Diagon Alley than last year at the same time. Wizards and witches were walking together in small groups, staring carefully in every direction like they expected an attack any second. No one was walking alone.
Mr Weasley pushed them towards Flourish and Blotts straight away.
"Since the fog has cleared, compared to last week, more people have come out of their houses, but it's better to be careful; there have been several kidnappings... After we get your books, maybe we'll stop by a pastry shop? You deserve a little reward after all this cleaning." Arthur tried to break the silence, but nobody was responding.
"Of course, we will remember about the constant vigilance, right, Edward?"
Silence.
"Oh, I can see the bookstore!" Mr Weasley exclaimed in delight.
They passed silent groups of wizards, each looking around in alert. However, more and more people were now smiling, all because of the beautiful day.
Harry had imagined that going out of the house at number twelve Grimmauld Place would cheer him up a little. However, after seeing many wanted posters or notices about the missing wizards and witches every step of the way, he stopped treating the visit to the Diagon Alley as fun. Some suspicious-looking retailers also set up several dodgy stalls in the middle of the street, selling defence artefacts or protective amulets.
There were not many customers inside Flourish and Blotts. It was not noisy and crowded as always, but silent as in the library.
"Give me your lists, please. Stay here with Edward, and I'll go get the books. I'll be back in no time." Mr Weasley took their Hogwarts letters and disappeared between the shelves.
They were standing right next to the entrance: Harry, Ron and the Hit Wizard. Nobody said anything the whole time. Harry glanced quickly at the wizard. He was clearly bored, but he carefully watched the entire store. As the minutes ticked by, they finally saw Mr Weasley laden with books as he brought them to the checkout counter. Later, he walked over to them and handed Harry his parcel, it was so heavy that the boy could barely hold it. He wasn't going to study as many subjects as in previous years, but the textbooks were several times thicker. Ron also got his stuff and moaned once he felt the weights of them. Mr Weasley kept the packages for Hermione and Ginny. Ginny's parcel was a lot smaller, as she will be getting most of her books from Ron.
As they left Flourish and Blotts behind and headed towards Madame Maklin's, Harry noticed that some of the stores' windows and doors were boarded up and closed for business. Also, nobody was watching displays like they used to; each wizard they met on the way seemed to travel straight to his destination without stopping even for a moment. Diagon Alley has changed. It was grey, quiet and felt somewhat abandoned. They could see lots of black and white photographs of the Death Eaters on the loose from every single wall. Harry recognised a few, as he has faced them at the Ministry of Magic weeks earlier.
"Hey, Harry. Look!" Ron tugged on his sleeve and pointed at the large figure coming out of the Magical Menagerie.
"Hagrid! Over here!" he shouted.
The half-giant waved at them and smiled heartily. They wanted to stop to talk to Hagrid, but the Hit Wizard pushed them forward, and Harry and Ron almost toppled over.
"We're going. There's no stopping on the street." he stated harshly.
Hagrid must have noticed this, as he began walking towards them. He caught up with Harry and Ron at Madam Maklin's front entrance. They went inside, Hagrid had to bend in half to fit in the doorway.
"Blimey, if I haven't seen ya for a long time. An' I couldn't even send ya a birthday card, ya know why. Been out and about also, couldn't just pop in with a visit. Ya won't get mad if I give yer gift at school?"
"It's okay, Hagrid. You don't have to."
"Come on, boys, we don't want to spend the whole day here. You need new robes. How are you doing, Hagrid?" Arthur winced a little as Rubeus shook his hand. His mother was a giant, and he inherited incredible strength from her. Sometimes, he was forgetting about it.
Hagrid looked at the Hit Wizard accompanying them but did not greet him.
"Now, I will be goin' if ya have everythin' under control. I've got to visit some places. Got to sort out some fertiliser for Hogwarts plants, cannot neglect ma work ya know. I'll see ya tomorrow at the feast," he said aloud and then whispered to Harry. "Don't eva' forget who was always on yer side, Harry. We all make mistakes. Think 'bout it."
Hagrid left so quickly that he was at the very end of the street after a few seconds.
"Weirdo." Ron said shortly.
Harry's friend was overjoyed that this was the first time he was not getting a used robe. When his father was promoted, he got a modest salary increase, but it was mostly the twins helping the family. They have presented their siblings with a new set of school robes. According to Mrs Weasley, their business was growing bigger and bigger every day.
When Harry and Ron walked over to the stools where Madame Maklin was about to take their measurements, they could finally talk to each other freely; not afraid the Hit Wizard might overhear them. They chatted about Quidditch, Fred and George's joke shop they were about to visit, and their future career plans. As Harry knew that he cannot study Potions, he would need to research what else he should do to get a job one day at the Magical Law Enforcement department. Ron had the same plan.
When they were waiting for their new robes, Mrs Weasley, Hermione and Ginny stepped inside the store. Remus was waiting for them outside as the place was already crowded.
"Where are Bill and Phleg... er... Fleur?" asked Harry.
"Yes, where is she?" said Ron standing up on his tiptoes, trying to look above their heads.
"They've decided to go to a cafeteria to spend some time together and do some shopping for themselves. They will be joining us for dinner," Mrs Weasley explained. "Now we are in a larger group so nothing bad should happen. Come on, girls, hurry, because we still have to go to the twins' shop. We don't have much time."
Hermione and Ginny waited for the fitting. As Harry looked at them, he noticed that Ron's sister had really become attractive. Her shiny red hair and bright smile caught his attention; he was looking at her dreamily for a good few minutes, and soon their orders were ready. Ginny and Hermione were collecting their shopping, and Mr and Mrs Weasley disappeared for a second to make payment.
"Psst, Harry," the 'Chosen One' came back to his senses as soon as he heard Ron's voice. "Look who's coming."
They heard the doorbell, and Draco Malfoy stepped inside. He was alone, which was strange because most wizards were now travelling in groups.
Malfoy stood in the doorway, and his eyes widened in astonishment.
"So this is indeed the end of the world. What am I seeing? The Weasleys are BUYING NEW robes," they heard Malfoy's sarcastic voice. Still, he didn't move further inside because he noticed the Hit Wizard standing nearby. "Did you win a lottery? Oh no, I know! Potter, it's probably because of you! When your godfather died, you probably allowed the Weasleys to sell his family's property so that their fat mother could finally feed them all. Who wouldn't pity them? Just look at them. Their father cannot even beg for a bit of Knuts for whatever job he's doing. But wait, I can also smell some mud," he said, looking mockingly at Hermione, and pretending he smelled something very unpleasant. "Sorry chaps, I have to leave you, if the place is full of beggars and Mudbloods it's definitely not for me. I will say 'hi' to Bellatrix Lestrange next time I see her, though. Saying the Weasleys are sending their regards after getting some gold thanks to her. Let's see who shall she kill next; Black is gone, so maybe the werewolf?"
SMACK!
Hermione jumped in front of Harry and punched Malfoy point-blank in the face so hard that the Slytherin flew through the door and landed face down into the street gutter. Hermione was now breathing heavily and rubbing her hand.
"Wow! Hermione, that was a nice blow!" Ron closed the door and looked at her in admiration.
"You could practice boxing," Harry joked. "You would be a good competition for Dudley."
Through the window they could see Malfoy struggled to his feet, murmuring some curses under his nose. The robe on his knees was frayed and bloody, he did not even look at them as he began to limp towards the parallel street. Out of the corner of his eye, Harry noticed that the Hit Wizard was staring at Hermione in amazement, smiling to himself like it was some kind of entertainment.
"What is going on here?" Molly Weasley asked confused when she returned to the entrance lobby. She saw that almost everyone was laughing and congratulating Hermione.
"Nothing." said the girl, who was all red in the face.
"We should let you into the attic at the Burrow to get rid of the ghoul." Ron grinned.
Hermione turned even redder.
It was very suspicious that Malfoy was walking alone the Diagon Alley; however, Harry couldn't just leave unnoticed to keep an eye on him. The Hit Wizard was watching his every move. Harry regretted he did not take his Invisibility Cloak, as maybe he could have a chance to leave the Fred and George' store and find out what the Slytherin was up to.
Except for the Hit Wizard, everyone left Madame Maklin's laden with shopping and headed towards Fred and George's joke shop.
"Where is it? Did you get the address right, maybe we missed it?"
But they didn't.
"Whoa!" called Ron.
Fred and George's joke shop was easily visible from a distance. It stood out from other dull and grey units because it was full of radiant colours; bright, flashy signs and eye-catching window displays. There was not even one wanted poster or Ministry of Magic announcement glued to the facade. And while other shops haven't had an excess of customers, Fred and George's was filled with people to the brim.
Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes was a spacious building. Still, it was so packed with visitors, especially Hogwarts students, it was challenging to move inside freely. The interior was even more brilliant than the external elevation. Multicoloured, various items were filling tall shelves; signs and advertisements, glowing like neon lights, encouraged people to buy many unique products.
They left their purchases in the staff room, and Fred began showing them around all floors.
"You've done well." Harry looked around admiringly.
"Without your help, my friend, we would have to battle the dust at the headquarters. We have heard from Bill that our mother turned you into house-elves and has forced all of you to spend a very productive summer... Remember, Harry, for you everything is on the house, for life. You are free to take any product you like."
"Bloody hell! Spell-Correcting Quills!" Ron ran to a display and began picking through various models.
"It'll cost you two Shekels and three Knuts. There is a 10% discount if you decide to get two."
"But I don't have any money."
"So you better put it back before you brake it."
"You can't be so greedy, I'm your younger brother. It's just a quill!"
"Sorry, but that's how you run a business. If you got any complaints, please log them in the complaints and suggestions box. It stands left to the exit."
Harry had never been to such a fantastic store before. Not only he was impressed with the decor but above all, the variety of products. Customers expressed their delight on every step. The twins did not limit themselves to manufacture fake sweets and wands or mugs trying to bit you, which Harry knew from Hogwarts. There were many different departments: Food and Sweets; School Assortments; Party; Joke Supplies; Games and Entertainment; Gifts; DIY; Beauty; Home and Pets; Self-defence and Security; Household and Crafts. Fred and George also expanded their assortment by flying mini-carpets, defence Shield Hats, love potions and many more.
The Self-defence and Security aisle was the most packed with customers.
"There is now a huge demand, obviously. We had to find a few employees because we couldn't cope making everything ourselves," said Fred. "But please do tell your school friends that our products work, they shouldn't be buying anything from these iffy merchants on the street."
"Yeah," said George. "Our new neighbour bought one of these fake amulets, and his nose turned green. He cannot get rid of it now, the colour that is."
"Some frauds are using the atmosphere of panic for their benefit," said Remus. "You are not safe at work, at home or anywhere else. That's what they want us to think. And some powerful or clever few might use it as an excuse to change our life or encourage us to buy their questionable artefacts. But you should not succumb to this."
"It's hard to do it if you have posters about Death Eaters at large on every corner. I'm dealing with it daily at work," said Mr Weasley. "But slowly, we will change that."
Fred and George continued the tour, explaining what some products do or how they work.
It was nearly impossible to count and see everything. Especially that Mrs Weasley was hurrying them up and keep looking at the watch.
Even Hermione was stunned and complimented them for 'Patented Daydream Charms' - a set thanks to which a user could enter a top-quality, highly realistic, thirty-minute daydream. They gave it to her for free for advertisement. But the girls were more attracted to the Home and Pets section, where Ginny convinced her mother to buy her a Pygmy Puff, a miniature puffskein that looked like a fluffy ball in the shade of pink.
Harry got only one product, the Spell-Correcting Quill, he gifted it to Ron once they've left the shop.
"We are going to be late," said Mrs Weasley nervously. "It's already past lunchtime."
"It will be fine, Molly." said Lupin.
Loaded with new purchases, they left the Diagon Alley and Apparated back near Grimmauld Place. The Hit Wizard has left unnoticed once they were just a few yards from their street. Harry was slowly getting used to this strange feeling of Apparition.
But before they managed to get closer to the house, a young witch ran towards them happily. Nymphadora Tonks, dressed in bright Muggle clothing, with ombre hair in the shade of purple, greeted everyone. The nice weather must have also gotten into her as she was smiling wildly. There was no trace of sadness in her anymore. She was not alone though, professor Dumbledore was standing by the front door.
"Guys, come on inside," called Tonks. "Oh, Harry, I'm so happy!" she kissed Harry on a forehead and took his shopping bags, prompting him to get into the house.
Harry got a bit embarrassed and looked at the ground.
"What is Dumbledore doing here?" whispered Ron. "Are we going to eat lunch with him? This is so awkward."
"Dunno," answered Harry quietly. "Was your mum in such a hurry because of this?"
Ron shuddered his shoulders.
"Something else troubles me," they heard Ginny's whisper. "Where is Bill when Tonks looks so good? That's a wasted opportunity."
They entered the hall silently, one by one, trying not to make any noise. Harry helped Ginny up as she slipped on the front stairs. He got a sniff of a pleasant flower fragrance she was usually wearing.
After leaving their shopping in the dining room, Dumbledore spoke up:
"You have to forgive me for this unannounced intrusion; however, I didn't want to spoil anything before we were absolutely ready," he said contentedly. "Harry, someone is very eager to see you. I can explain everything in a few moments. But I believe that you would like your friends to accompany you?"
Harry was confused. Had it something to do with the Order of the Phoenix or maybe it was someone who could share a bit of information about Lord Voldemort past? He was wondering what could it be.
Harry felt Dumbledore's hand on his shoulder as he led him to the drawing room.
"Ginny, you should stay here and help me with unpacking."
"But mum, why?"
"Please just listen to me. Where did you keep your Pygmy Puff?"
Harry heard Mrs Weasley voice behind as he, Dumbledore, Tonks, Ron, Hermione and Lupin were walking down the corridor.
"We've been working on this for some time. Please, don't get mad at us that we're only telling you about it now. I would wait a little longer, but he insisted," said Tonks. "Oh, this is so wonderful!" she chirped and started humming some jolly song.
Dumbledore opened the door to the drawing room, but Harry was looking at Tonks. Something inside her has changed. Not only she was gleeful again but started to dress in a Muggle-fashion, without so many style mistakes so often committed by wizards.
But Harry instantly turned back as soon as he heard that something fell heavily on the floor. That was Hermione. Harry was speechless, did she just pass out? Ron was standing right next to her but didn't even try to help her get up. Wide-eyed, Ron was staring directly ahead with his mouth open in total shock.
Harry looked towards the front and froze. His godfather, Sirius Black, was sitting by the table smiling to him.