AN: I know it's been a long time. All I'll say is that a lot has been going on in my life preventing me from concentrating long enough to write this chapter. I also had a bit of writer's block. I won't make any promises on when the next chapter will come out, but I have started working on it today. Hopefully it won't take me several months to finish it. Thank you for your patience.
I made a change to the end of the previous chapter where they tell Flitwick and Sprout about the possibility of Voldemort attacking. I realized I didn't want them to be unaware of it as they would likely be upset with Minerva for not telling them beforehand. If you want to read it, you only have to scroll down to the very end of the chapter as the rest is still the same.
Harry's Minerva
Chapter 22
The next morning, the Hoods only did light exercises and stretches to warm up and loosen their muscles without getting overly tired. Once they were all finished and showered, they sat down at the kitchen table to eat and go over their plans one more time.
"Alright," Harry began after everyone had time to eat some of their food, "is everything in place for today?"
"The aurors have been spread out between the Ministry, Diagon Alley, St. Mungo's, and Hogsmeade. We also made sure there are extra guards at Azkaban as well. Scrimgeour has everyone on high alert," Amelia stated.
"I have the task force on high alert too. They'll be patrolling major areas of traffic as well as more isolated ones on the muggle side. If anything happens, we'll hopefully be able to contain it before too many people notice," Arthur said.
"Good, make sure they're prepared for anything, including magical creatures," Harry advised. Arthur nodded.
"And the rest of us know where to be Harry," Tonks affirmed, the others nodding in agreement. The group had decided that Fred, George, Molly, and Fleur would cover Diagon Alley while Matthew, Samena, Charlie, and Andromeda would patrol Hogsmeade. Amelia would be at the Ministry with Tonks and Hestia as her guards for the day. After being convinced that she was a likely target for Voldemort, Amelia agreed to have two additional aurors she trusted guarding her as well. Minerva, to her ire, had to be at Hogwarts with the rest of the professors to keep up appearances. Despite the threat of a large-scale attack, it was imperative that Dumbledore had no suspicion of their plans before they could enact them this evening. Those who were still students and Harry would be in charge of the defense of the Hogwarts Express, with help from members of the DA hopefully. The adults were concerned about leaving the young witches and wizards on their own but knew that they had trained hard for this exact type of situation. If anyone could handle it, it was them.
"We are as prepared for this as we can possibly be," Andromeda assured him.
Harry sighed. "I know. Everyone just be on your guard. I'll have the communicators on conference mode so make sure you're on mute unless you need to announce something to avoid distracting each other. If you get badly injured, use the portkeys to come back here so Winky can get Poppy for you." He paused for a moment. "Also make sure you're wearing your jackets and boots. Most of us will have to use the glamour mode, though." He was referring to the added features Fleur and Hestia had designed a week ago using a combination of runic magic and enchantments. It allowed them to make the items look differently to others while still giving them the same protection. The witches had also given the hoods of the jackets the ability to distort their voices so no one wearing it had to do so manually. "And if you see Riddle, let me know immediately. I'll be there."
They all nodded in understanding while Ron added, "Don't worry Harry. We know to leave him to you."
With that said, they all got up to get themselves ready to go. The students were going to arrive at the platform separately to protect the secrecy of the group. Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Luna, and Neville would be taken by their respective parents or guardians. Susan was Flooing over to the Abbots home to go with them while Andromeda and Tonks were taking Harry since their connection became public after the Wizengamot meeting.
- H.M. –
Harry and Minerva's walk up to their room was quiet, both of them lost in their thoughts. When they were in the room, Aurelia got up from her bed and trotted over to them. She rubbed her head against Minerva's hand before moving in front of Harry. An expectant look was on her face. Smiling, he got down on one knee, so he was eye level with her.
"Hey girl," he muttered as he stroked her head. Minerva went to finish packing up and shrink their trunks while he talked to his unicorn. Aurelia neighed softly at him in response. "I have to leave soon to get on the train, so you'll have to stay here with the elves for the day." Harry could see that she didn't like that idea, so he tried to reassure her. "I promise you that we'll see each other tonight, Aurelia. You have to stay a secret until I get to Hogwarts. Dobby will bring you to me then. But, we can go play for a little bit until it's time for me to go." Aurelia gazed at him for a moment before nodding her head in acceptance. "Good girl. How about you go downstairs, and I'll be there in a moment." Aurelia nodded again and trotted out of the room.
Minerva moved over to him once Aurelia was gone, handing him his shrunken trunk. Harry stowed it into his pocket before looking up at her. He could see the worry etched on her face.
"What are you thinking, Mina?" he asked softly, grasping her hands in his.
"I… I don't like you running into danger without me," she admitted. "I know that you can take care of yourself. I made sure of it. But still…" she trailed off.
Harry didn't even try to pretend that there wouldn't be an attack during the train ride. The feeling in his gut told him it would happen. Instead, he pulled her into his arms. She fell into his embrace willingly. "I know. I feel better when you're by my side too. But… we have to."
She sighed and held him tighter. "Remind me to hex Dumbledore for making all of this secrecy necessary."
He chuckled lightly. "Something tells me you'll get the chance later today."
"One can only hope."
They stood there in silence for a moment before Harry broke it, a thought hitting him. "It's going to be a huge adjustment not being able to spend most of my time with you."
"I'm sure you'll manage, though I must admit I've gotten used to your presence. We'll just have to make the most of what time we do have together." She kissed his cheek before pulling back to look at his face. "Promise me you'll be careful and avoid any unnecessary risks. You're not alone and you don't have to try and do everything yourself."
"I promise. I know I can count on the others to do their part."
"If Riddle does show his face today, know that I'm coming to help you, even if it makes Dumbledore suspicious."
"I wouldn't expect anything less and I won't even think of convincing you otherwise."
"Good," she replied before leaning in to kiss him. She had meant for it to be short but was unable to resist the temptation to deepen it. As tongues became involved and hands started roaming, an idle though crossed her mind. He really is getting good at this.
The kiss continued for several minutes longer, both trying to get as much from each other as they could before they had to separate. It would be the longest time they'd been apart since Harry dropped in front of Minerva on that fateful night.
When their passions had simmered down, Harry pulled back until their lips were just barely touching. "Try to stay out of trouble until I get there," he said against her lips.
Her lips curled into an amused smile. "I shall do my best, though I make no promises. My patience for childish and manipulative men is very thin at the moment."
He laughed lightly. "They'll get what they deserve soon enough, Mina. I just ask for a few more hours."
Minerva pretended to think about before giving him another quick kiss. "For you, I will be patient." Then she reluctantly pulled away from his embrace. "I better go now before the temptation to stay here with you gets any stronger." She kissed his cheek one last time before leaving the room.
Harry stood there for a few more seconds, missing her presence already. Then, shaking his head, he went to go find Aurelia so they could play until it was time for him to go.
- H.M. –
While the Hoods were making sure their plans were in place for possible attacks, Voldemort had called his followers to his base to give them their instructions for the day. While the Death Eaters knew their master was planning something big, based on the intensity of his recruitment efforts and how hard they'd been forced to train, only a few knew any of the details. No one knew the entire plan except for Voldemort.
The Dark Lord sat on his throne on a raised dais at the end of the room, as he surveyed his forces. He now had over 150 humans, almost 60 werewolves, about 30 vampires, dozens of trolls and giants, a few other dangerous magical creatures, and all of the dementors in Great Britain, though the latter were still at Azkaban for the moment. For this attack though, he only needed the humans and a few of the trolls which were in their cages. He could tell they were wondering what he wanted from them based on the whispered conversations they were having and the confused looks on their faces. His inner circle, who stood closest to his throne were less confused having some prior knowledge, but even they were unaware of the full scale of his plan. He smirked slightly, wondering what their reactions would be to his announcement.
Once the time for the meeting arrived, he smoothly stood up from his chair. The room was instantly quiet, everyone's attention on him. "My friends, I have called you here to inform you of the attack we will launch on our enemies today. It is time that we remind this country why they should fear us. Today we will strike them in a way that they will never be able to forget. Your targets – Diagon Alley, the Ministry of Magic, Hogsmeade, and the Hogwarts Express." He paused, giving them time to take it all in. The room vibrated from the volume of their cheering.
He held up his hand to silence them before explaining the plan in detail. He was forced to quiet them again as they made their approval known with loud sounds of praise. Then he assigned them to their groups, led by members of the inner circle, before dismissing them. Once most of them were gone, he went to talk to his greatest spy in the Ministry. She knelt down before him when he was standing in front of her.
"You know who your target is. I want her dead and her corpse hung in the main atrium as a symbol of what happens to those who try to challenge my power."
"It will be done, my Lord."
Voldemort had one more follower he needed to talk to. Like the other, this one knelt down before him. "It is time that you prove your loyalty to me. I have a mission for you to carry out today."
"Whatever you ask of me, I will do, my Lord," the follower replied.
"We shall see," Voldemort remarked before giving them his instructions. The follower left a few minutes later, a heavy weight on their shoulders.
- H.M. –
When Minerva arrived at Hogwarts, the professors were just making their way to the Great Hall for breakfast. She politely greeted them as she walked toward the head table, thankful that none of them tried to ask her any questions. They sent her curious glances but didn't voice their thoughts, sensing that she wasn't on the mood to humor them. Dumbledore hadn't made it down yet either and to her surprise, Flitwick was sitting in her usual spot. She made a mental note to give the half-goblin a very good gift to repay him. Now she wouldn't have to answer any probing questions that she knew Dumbledore was liable to ask her.
Minerva sat down beside Flitwick and began to fix herself a cup of tea while turning to speak to him. "Thank you, Filius."
He gave her a small smile as he replied. "You're welcome. After everything you've told me, I assumed you would rather not sit next to him so I thought I would help run interference for you."
"And I appreciate it very much. I really wasn't looking forward to dealing with his questions this early in the day," Minerva replied, taking a sip of her tea.
"Is everything ready for today?" Flitwick asked, lowering his voice to avoid being overheard.
"Yes. Everyone's in position for today. We're as prepared as we can be. Now all we can do is hope we've done enough to prevent as much chaos and destruction as possible." Flitwick nodded grimly in agreement.
Sprout joined them a minute later, taking the seat on Minerva's other side. She sent a questioning look to Minerva, asking the same thing as Flitwick had without speaking. When Minerva nodded in response, she began fixing her plate to eat.
Dumbledore arrived ten minutes later with Snape in tow. When she realized he was staring at her questioningly, she sent him a cold look. He tried to intimidate her with an imperious expression. She continued to give him the same look. It took a lot of restraint for her not to hex him then and there for his obvious attempt to cow her, but somehow, she managed to do so. When she turned her gaze on Snape, the potions professor was glaring at her hatefully. She smirked dismissively in response before turning back to Flitwick and Sprout, both of whom had noticed the exchange that had lasted several seconds.
"If I had any doubts about what you said last night, those looks they just sent you erased them," Sprout remarked. "I do hope you all still have enough energy to deal with them later."
"We will."
- H.M. –
After saying goodbye to Aurelia, Harry left for the platform with Andromeda and Tonks. They picked up on his slightly down mood, immediately knowing the reason for it.
"Missing her, huh?" Tonks remarked as they made their way through the crowds in King's Cross station.
Harry ran his hand through his hair absentmindedly as he answered. "Is it that obvious?"
"It is to someone who knows you as well as I do," Tonks said.
"Yeah… I miss her," he admitted.
"That's not all that's bothering you though," Andromeda observed.
Harry sighed and ruffled his hair even more. "Some of it's about what will likely happen today with Riddle and his minions. But even beyond that I... I'm not really looking forward to having to hide our relationship."
"Don't worry Harry. Everyone's been training as hard as we possibly could. If anyone's a match for the Death Eater's, it's us," Tonks assured him.
"I agree. I can't promise that everything will go perfectly, but we've done all we could to prepare for this," Andromeda added. "As for your relationship, it will be a big adjustment. But, as long as you communicate openly with each other, you'll make it through this until secrecy is no longer necessary."
"I know, but that doesn't mean I have to like it," Harry muttered.
"Awe cheer up," Tonks said as she threw her arm around his shoulder. "Think about it this way. When she takes off her glamour in front of everyone, you get to laugh at all the jealous wizards knowing that they'll never have her because she's yours."
Harry scoffed. "You mean I'll have to restrain myself from fighting anyone who looks at her in a way I don't like."
"At least you'll have a way to release your stress," Tonks persisted teasingly. Andromeda shook her head at her daughter.
Harry only gave Tonks a look but decided not to respond out loud. Instead, he turned his gaze his surroundings to see if anyone was paying them any attention. Then he causally leaned against the entrance to platform 9 3/4, disappearing through the wall.
He stood to the side to wait for Tonks and Andromeda to make their way through as well before heading towards the train. As it was half past 10, the platform was packed with students and their families. The sound of greetings, goodbyes, and well wishes created a loud buzz in the area. They could feel the undercurrent of apprehension and fear, though. It was seen in people's stances and demeanors. In the smiles that didn't quite reach the eyes. Harry silently hoped he would be able to end this war soon. Not only for his own freedom, but so that people could live in peace, especially the children.
It took a few minutes for anyone to notice him, but when they did, eyes turned toward him in a wavelike fashion. Then the whispering and pointing started. Harry ignored them, realizing that their stares no longer bothered him. The summer had transformed him. He now was confident in the person he was and still becoming. After he'd gotten over his shock, the two masteries he'd earned completely on his own merits made him stop doubting his abilities. He wasn't perfect and knew he would still make mistakes, but he didn't care what most others thought about him. He wasn't going to try and conform to anyone else's opinions of who he was supposed to be. His relationship with Minerva also helped his confidence as he had to be doing something right to gain the affections of someone of her standing.
It seemed like people sensed this as many turned back to what they were doing before. Harry waved at every DA member he saw on his way to the middle of the train, receiving eager waves and nods of respect in return. A few people came up to say hello, giving polite greetings to Andromeda and Tonks as well.
When they were in front of the train, Harry gave each of them hugs, saying with his actions what he didn't want to say out loud in case anyone was paying too much attention to them. Then he hopped on the train, waving goodbye before going to find a compartment close to the middle. The two witches left the platform quickly after that, heading to where they needed to be.
Harry peeked through a few compartments before he found Neville and Hermione already sitting in one. Smiling, he closed the door and plopped down beside Hermione.
"So how has your summer been?" he joked. Hermione rolled her eyes at him while Neville laughed. "Seriously though, did you two get any stares out on the platform."
"Probably not as much as you, but I noticed some people watching me," Neville remarked.
Hermione scoffed. "Neville, you received a lot of looks. Especially from the witches." She had arrived at the same time as him and noticed them watching him with interest.
"Really? Why?"
Harry shook his head at his friend and moved to sit by him, throwing his arm around his shoulder. "Put it this way Nev. All the training we've been doing has put us in the best shape of our lives. I have no doubt that the witches noticed the improvements you made." When Neville still didn't get it, Harry decided to be blunt. "Mate, they think you're attractive."
"Really?" The look of surprise on his face was endearing.
"Yes," Hermione confirmed, blushing a bit. She had also noticed that he had lost all of his remaining baby fat and filled out in a good way, his muscles now very defined. In fact, all of the Hoods had made improvements to their physiques. After the shopping trip that they had all gone on at Harry's insistence, they now had clothes that accentuated this fact.
"Don't worry. You'll get used to it soon enough," Harry assured him before changing the subject. He took note of the appreciative look Hermione had given to Neville when the wizard wasn't looking, but he kept silent for now. He would have plenty of time to tease her about it later on.
- H.M. –
After Harry and Hermione got off of the train to greet Mrs. Weasley to keep up appearances, the "student" members of the Hood regrouped into the compartment Hermione and Neville had chosen. Hermione and Luna applied the privacy wards over it to prevent anyone from eavesdropping on them.
"Is it just me or are we getting more looks than usual?" Ron asked once they were all seated.
"Well we have been training our butts off and we're wearing new clothes that show it thanks to Harry here," Susan pointed out.
"Will that make anyone overly suspicious?" Ginny asked.
Hermione waved her concern off. "We can just tell them that we've been training all summer to get stronger for the war. Everyone except for Susan went to the Ministry so we can use that as the reason. Susan can simply say she's been trained by her aunt after the attack on their home. I doubt too many will look too closely into it after that with our histories."
Harry nodded in satisfaction. "Sounds good to me. What do you think, Luna?"
Luna thought for a moment, tilting her head to the left slightly. "We have at least a few months before anyone will start asking too many questions. Hermione's logic will suffice as long as we're careful."
"So, we just stick to the story, then. Which is basically the truth if lacking in some of the details," Neville summarized. Then he turned to Harry. "So Alpha, got any last-minute advice to give us."
Harry stood up and moved to stand in front of the door, his demeanor completely serious. "Remember your training. Stay aware of your surroundings. Trust your instincts and each other." He paused, looking in each of their eyes. "Our goals are to incapacitate as many enemies as possible while protecting the students. Hermione's going to send the message to the DA, so we'll get some help from them, but they'll likely rely on us to lead them."
"Do you think we'll have to… kill anyone?" Hermione asked hesitantly.
Tension filled the room at her words as the others realized they hadn't thought about that. Harry took a moment to gather his thoughts before answering. "It's possible. I've had to do so during my recent battles. All I can tell you is the same thing we've all been telling you – don't hesitate. Hesitation can get you killed. Do what you have to do to live and save innocent lives. We'll help you deal with the consequences when it's all over." They remained silent for a moment longer to take in his words.
"What about the students whose parents are death eaters?" Neville asked.
"It depends on how they react. If they try to attack you, stun them if possible. If they attack with lethal force… you do what you have to do to survive." They all gave Harry grim nods in response.
After that, Susan and Ginny went to go catch up with their other friends while Harry sat back down. Hermione took out her coin so she could send the DA a message. They had agreed on simply telling them to "be on their guard" since the coin only let them send short messages.
Less than ten minutes later, Malfoy and his two goons, Crabbe and Goyle, appeared in front of their compartment. All of them sighed, not really wanting to deal with them at the moment.
"Are you really that obsessed with us that you have to come visit our compartment every single train ride?" Harry asked sarcastically.
Malfoy bristled at his comment. "You're going to regret that."
"Am I really? Who exactly is going to make me regret it, your dark lord? He's failed every other time." Harry challenged.
Malfoy scoffed derisively. "You'll be taken care of sooner than you think and Dumbledore won't be able to save you this time."
Before Harry could respond, Ron spoke up. His voice was calm, and he remained in his seat as he stared Malfoy down. "Malfoy, when are you going to grow up and realize that you are insignificant? You are nothing more than a coward who relies on your family name to get what you want. We have more important things to do than listen to you and your empty threats that you aren't capable of acting on." He cut Malfoy off when he saw him about to open his mouth. "Do yourself a favor. Take you and your tagalongs and bother someone who cares." Then without uttering a word, he banished them out of the compartment and closed and locked the door.
The other three in the compartment stared at him in awe. Ron's expression turned into one of confusion at their looks. "What?"
Harry shook his head at him. "Just didn't realize how much you grew up over the summer, mate."
"Harry's right. You managed to deal with him while completely keeping your cool. That's a first for you. "Hermione agreed, her tone expressing how proud she was of him.
"Yeah, you handled Malfoy really well," Neville added.
Ron shrugged nonchalantly, though inside he swelled with pride from their comments. "Like I told him, I've got more important things to focus my energy on then arguing with someone like him."
Harry sat back, a smirk on his face. A mature Ron, me as an official professor, no Snape, Binns, or Dumbledore, and Mina in charge. Yes, Hogwarts is in for an interesting year. One I doubt many of them are prepared for.
- H.M. –
Around 1 in the afternoon, Fleur walked through the door of Fred and George's store, Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. Molly was standing by the front desk, her gaze focused on the windows to watch for any sign of trouble. Fleur nodded at her, receiving one in return, as she continued deeper into the store. Fred was to the left helping one of the few customers in the store. She nodded to him too as she made her way upstairs. Once she reached the second floor, she finally found George. He was standing in front of a shelf on the left back wall, facing away from her.
Fleur stood there watching him for a moment, thinking about how much he had helped her since her break-up with Bill. George had been instrumental in her recovery process. He held her when she cried. He listened to her when she needed to talk or vent her feelings. He also never failed to get her to smile or laugh when he noticed she was feeling down. After spending so much time with him, she had learned that there was much more to him than the prankster side most others only saw. He was kind, caring, and a complete gentleman. He listened when she talked, never being judgmental or condescending. He treated her like his equal and not someone to be objectified, keeping his gaze on her eyes most of the time. Even when his gaze did wander, he looked at her with true appreciation, not just base lust. He also was the more level-headed twin and tended to be the voice of reason between himself and Fred. All of this made her realize that she had picked the wrong Weasley to date. They hadn't officially started any relationship beyond friendship yet, but the more time she spent with him, the more she wanted to.
"What are you doing?" Fleur called out as she walked over to him.
George jumped slightly, startled out his thoughts. "Oh, hey Fleur. I didn't hear you come in."
"I see zat. What we're you zinking about?" she asked as she came to stand right in front of him.
George sighed. "Just hoping we all get through whatever Riddle has planned for today."
"Me too. I don't want to lose any of you. We've all become like a big family."
George nodded in agreement. "We have, haven't we. It's only been a little over a month, yet I feel like I've known everyone for longer."
Fleur nodded a small smile on her face. "Yes. It is nice to have a family I can turn to outside of France." Her smile fell as she continued. "Though it does make the thought of losing any of them harder."
"Yeah." George went quiet for a moment trying to decide whether to voice his thoughts. Fleur waited patiently, hoping he was about to say what she thought he was. Finally, after several seconds passed, he cleared his throat to speak. "I… I've been thinking about a lot lately, with everything going on. This war makes you really contemplate the shortness of life. I mean, my mum lost both of her brothers in the last one. And this one could be worse. I just don't want to face the possibility of death with regrets."
He paused to take a deep breath. "I've really enjoyed spending time with you. More than I actually thought I would. Behind the wall you put up to others to protect yourself, you're really kind and sweet with a big heart. You're intelligent but not arrogant about it. You take real interest in the projects me and brother work on. Despite my reputation for being a troublemaker, you took the time to discover who I am as a whole instead of judging me based on one part of my personality. I even like that you call me out when I'm doing wrong or taking something too far. For me, that shows that you care enough to tell me the truth. So, while I know that you just broke up with Bill and despite the fact that he's my brother, I was wondering if you want to go out on a date with me. Well, after we get through today obviously."
Fleur's smile had been growing throughout his entire speech and she answered him without hesitation once he was finished. "I would like zat very much." Then she leaned up and kissed his cheek.
Before George could respond, they heard several loud booms outside. It was quickly followed by screams of terror. They looked at each for a second before rushing downstairs to join Fred and Molly. When they reached them, the few customers in the store were huddled in the back in fear. Looking outside the window, they could see people running around in pure panic while dozens of Death Eaters began to cause chaos.
"They've already set up the anti-apparition and anti-Floo wards," Fred explained to George and Fleur.
"I'll stay here and guard the store," Molly stated.
"We'll try to bring any injured back here so you can patch them up," George replied.
"The wards on the store are activated so hopefully they'll hold out against any attacks," Fred added.
"I'll let him know that it's started. You three be careful and watch each other's backs," Molly said as they turned to leave.
"We will," they replied simultaneously.
As they ran out the door, she activated her communicator. "They just arrived here Alpha," she said once her call went through.
"Copy that Matron. I'm putting us on conference mode now. And… be careful."
"We'll do our best."
- H.M. –
In Hogsmeade, Charlie and Andromeda were walking around on one side of the village with their hoods up, keeping an eye out for any possible death eaters. Samena and Matthew were doing the same on the other side. The group had decided to split up to cover more ground. Both also had notice-me-not charms on them to avoid arousing the villagers' and the aurors' suspicions. There were more people out today than they expected with the war going on. After an hour of walking around, Charlie commented on this.
"Do you think people feel safer with Amelia in charge?" he asked Andromeda.
She nodded in agreement. "I believe so. With all of the blows that have been dealt to Riddle lately, it's likely that has instilled some confidence in the public of her ability to handle and win this war."
"Hopefully we can keep that momentum going then."
"Hopefully it will make them realize that if they fight back too, he'll never win."
"If they did, this war would be over sooner than later. Unfortunately, too many people allow fear to guide their actions."
"Exactly the reason why we almost lost the first war."
"True. At least this time around we have much more competent people leading us."
Andromeda laughed lightly. "That is an understatement. Neither Dumbledore nor the Ministry actually led the last war. The former was too busy conducting some grand plan and trying to keep an unrealistic higher moral ground to pay attention to the amount of lives being lost. Lives that could have been saved if he had allowed his people to truly fight back. And the latter… I believe the American saying is "running around like chickens with their heads cut off". That's exactly how they acted. Add in the corruption and it was only a matter of time before the ministry was taken over. It was only thanks to people like Sirius, James, and Lily that we lasted as long as we did. To tell you the truth, Ted and I contemplated taking Dora and leaving."
Charlie was silent for a moment before he responded, his voice quieter than before. "I'm glad you didn't have to. I may never have met you or Dora and that… that would be a shame."
Andromeda turned toward him, scrutinizing his face for a moment. "You still care for her, don't you?"
"Yeah. I never really stopped. But I was going to Romania and she was staying here to join the aurors. I couldn't ask her to give up that dream any more than she could've asked me to give up mine. I didn't think we had any other choice but to split."
"Did you consider trying a long-distance relationship?"
"I did, but we thought we would miss each other too much for it to work." He laughed bitterly. "Turns out I missed her anyway. So much so that any other relationship I tried to have failed because they weren't the woman I really wanted."
"Maybe you should tell her that."
Charlie looked at her curiously. "You sound like you approve of us being together."
Andromeda smiled. "I do. I never really liked any of Dora's boyfriends, especially the ones after you. With you, though, she was… much happier. You know how hard it is for her to deal with people due to her ability. But she didn't have to worry about that with you because you didn't care. You saw her completely and genuinely cared about her. And you were always respectful toward us both. That's the kind of man I want for my daughter. You're the kind of man Ted would want for her too."
"Don't tell her this, but I was thinking of moving back to Britain anyway. I'm not really happy in Romania anymore. I don't know what I'll do if I leave though."
"Well whatever you decide, you should talk to her. You never know what will happen in the future."
"You're right." Before he could say anything else, their communicators beeped to signal that conference mode had been activated.
"This is Alpha speaking. Be advised that Riddle's minions have started attacking group 1's location. Has anyone else noticed any activity in your area?"
"Everything's clear for group 2. We've just deployed more aurors to group 1's location," Amelia said.
"No one in my task force has seen anything yet, but I'll make sure they know the Alley's under attack," Arthur said.
"We haven't seen anything for group 3 either," Andromeda called out.
"Neither have we…" Samena began. She paused for a second before continuing. "Wait, scratch that. They've just arrived." She and Matthew slowly moved forward toward the Death Eaters location, making sure their hoods fully covered them.
"Where are they Mystique?" Charlie asked. He and Andromeda also secured their hoods.
Samena took a few seconds to answer. "They popped in near the shrieking shack. From what I can tell there's at least thirty of them and…"
"Merlin! They brought a dragon!" Matthew interjected. The same thought ran through every Hood member's mind at that moment. Where did they get a dragon from?
Andromeda shared a glance with Charlie before trying to apparate to them. "Crap, they already put up the wards. We're running towards you as fast as we can."
"Give me a description of it," Charlie added his words coming out in pants as he ran.
"It has dark black scales and… purple eyes I believe," Matthew answered.
"Sounds like a Hebridean Black then. Dangerous and aggressive but at least not a Horntail. I'll have to figure out a way to entrap it. For now, steer clear of it. Knowing death eaters, they've likely pissed it off in hopes to cause as much destruction as possible," Charlie responded.
"Will do," Samena confirmed.
Charlie looked at Andromeda, about to say something, but he was interrupted by the urgent whispering from Susan on the comms. "Alpha I spotted hostiles to the west flying in on brooms."
"And I see some to the east," Ginny added.
"I'll let the DA know," Hermione said.
"The alarms just went off in the Ministry too," Hestia piped in.
"And one of my men just spotted three trolls in London," Arthur conveyed.
Harry sighed as he stood up in his carriage, ready to go fight the incoming invaders. "Alright then. Everyone be careful."
"Copy Alpha," the Hoods replied simultaneously.
AN: This is basically the set up for the action in the next chapter.
League of Hoods Members:
Harry – Alpha
Minerva – Lioness
Hermione – Scholar
Tonks – Shifter
Andromeda – Barrister
Amelia – Monarch
Hestia – Sleuth
Fleur – Aphrodite
Luna – Oracle
Ron – Tactician
Neville – Terran (means earth)
Fred – Thing 1
George – Thing 2
Ginny – Firecracker
Charlie – Bear
Samena – Mystique
Matthew – Eagle
Arthur – Humphrey (means calm)
Molly – Matron