Chapter 37 - Fiscal Footprint

Astoria had never been more grateful for her father, he was everything a mildly spoiled daughter could ask for. More importantly for Astoria at the moment, he had replied to her letter with not just the usual banter he wrote but a parcel embossed with a small crest that was her family crest. It was on a Monday that the owls brought the parcel and for the next few days everyone could attest that Astoria Greengrass became a rare sight, for she had something else that grabbed all her attention.

The parcel had contained numerous folders, all detailing the information that Astoria had asked for. Even more, it seemed that Cyrus Greengrass had taken the time and effort to annotate the documents found in the folder, doing his best to teach Astoria without being physically present. Astoria had to smile at the thoughtfulness of her father as she poured through the records and reports, either that or her father wanted to overwhelm her into submission in a sink or swim mindset just so that he could poke fun at her later.

After classes, she had holed herself up in a secluded corner of the library, away from the prying eyes of Madam Pince and other students. A mad dash to finish her homework came first before delving into the folders her father had provided. As was expected, her father did not entrust her to everything about the Greengrass business but that was not Astoria's focus, she was glad he was not hesitant in releasing the trade secrets of others to her eyes.

Based on the reports from Anya and the stories from the Daily Prophet regarding the Black Mark, it was not just galleons but certain items being moved as well. Potions and poisons - which were being moved - were difficult to trace, with ingredients being exported and imported across the world, it was nigh impossible to determine their origin. However, artifacts which were cursed, enchanted or magical could be traced to their source and as expected, were never cited to be moved. Which was where the galleons came in, if you could not give a person in another country a certain item, give them the money to buy it in their locality.

If there was a buyer, there was a seller. Find the seller and you could trace the buyer. And based on the items that were cited to be moved, a guess could be made as to what had to be bought. Astoria had a hutch it was in the Defence Against the Dark Arts market, hence the letter to her father. Astoria knew it would be hard, if whoever was using the money had half a brain, he or she would be spreading the money thinly across different businesses to avoid raising any suspicion. It was down to deduction and some guesswork.

She eliminated the businesses which sold potions, poisons and any other items that were ever mentioned in a Daily Prophet article regarding the Black Mark, since those had already been supplied to her mystery person. Secretly, Astoria gave a sigh of relief, her family business only dealt in potions, meaning that there were zero chances any of her family would be caught up in this.

Burning up several days looking at the folders, Astoria decided to simply look at defence business dealing in the most foremost and premier of goods. The report Anya gave recorded transfers of galleons in vast quantities, her mystery person receiving the funds would have the capacity to buy the best. It had cut down the list of suspected businesses by a great deal, but Astoria was still worried her father's folder might not have given her insight into every defence business in Britain.

Thankfully, her father did not disappoint and Astoria began searching for premier defence companies that have been receiving an increased revenue since the St Helensworth incident. It was days of shuffling through the thick paperwork in her father's folder, sleep deprived nights and nicked coffee from the kitchens. Finally, Astoria had gathered a list of suspected businesses that could be selling goods to her mystery person, knowing who was the seller was as good as knowing the buyer. The next opportunity to see Anya presented itself in another of their training sessions.

"Four minutes and twenty two seconds," Anya announced, looking at her watch. "Four enemies not yet eliminated and only one 'civilian' killed. That's an improvement, I'll call it a day."

"Four?" Astoria wheezed, slumped against a tree as she tried to catch her breath. "How did I miss four? You charmed all of them to attack me on sight! They are supposed to show themselves."

"One was under a bed, two hiding in cupboards and one in the bathroom which you never checked properly," Anya replied blandly. "You passed by too fast for them to react."

"You gave me five minutes," Astoria stated in defence. "I had to go fast. Some things are sacrificed for speed."

"I taught you the Supersensory Charm last week for a reason," Anya countered with a smirk.

Astoria groaned, she had yet to fully master the spell. Granted, the spell was in the sixth year syllabus, but Astoria had long known that Anya could not care less.

"And the 'civilian' you shot straight between the eyes?" Anya asked.

"Yeah, let's not talk about that," Astoria muttered, looking abashed. "It grabbed me from the back and I panicked, which 'civilian' would ever grab an armed person instead of running away."

Shooting a distasteful glare that the now stationary dummy figures that stood against the wall, Astoria stowed her wand. Flicking the safety lever of her pistol, she holstered it before removing a set of straps and pouches Anya had called a webbing. It was clearly a Muggle invention but Astoria could not find much resemblance to a web.

They had snuck out of school for this session, taking the passage they had found under the Whomping Willow last year. Anya had converted the Shrieking Shack into their latest training ground and Astoria's latest suffering. Fighting within a building from room to room was an experience unlike any form of dueling, there were many things to watch out for and as many things she could not see due to walls. The dummy figures had been charmed by Anya to act as her opponents, but some acted as civilians in order to force Astoria to identify her targets first.

Nonetheless, Astoria found it a unique experience when she got to use Muggle and magic together. The pistol became the main form of engaging an opponent while the wand acted as a shield, utility tool and - if the circumstances called for it - a situational form of attack. It was an interesting concept. With equal reflexes, a gun was always faster but since they were in close proximity, the spells from a wand were more versatile and powerful. It created a situation where she had to make quick judgements: speed or power, a question as old as time.

However, there was a stumble when she had to now wield her pistol in her left hand instead to accommodate her wand as a finely attuned magical equipment had more priority. Astoria watched as Anya disassembled the dummy figures, slowly turning them back to earth with wide circular waves of her wands. This was as good a time as any.

"Anya, I have something for you," Astoria grabbed her bag, pulling out the scroll of parchment that was the fruits of her hard work.

"Which is?" Anya faced her, accepting the scroll.

"The task you had for me," Astoria smiled proudly. "I've completed it. Mind you, how you get the seller to spill the beans is something for your people to accomplish."

Anya scanned through the parchment, staring for a minute before rolling it up and tucking it away. Looking at Astoria, she gave an impressed smile.

"Nice work, it's a Thursday right?"

"Yes?" Astoria replied hesitantly.

"We don't have lessons on the weekends," said Anya. "So if you don't see me, don't be surprised. Rather, cover for me if you have to."

"Wait... what!?" Astoria blurted out. "You're going personally? Out of school?"

"I'm the one who will be telling my people the information," Anya pointed at herself. "So I'll be there in case something goes wrong."

"Hang on," Astoria exclaimed. "I'm the one that created that report! If anything I should be there on the ground. I want in."

"You want in?" Anya repeated questioningly, heading back to the Shrieking Shack where the passage back to Hogwarts was.

"Of course," Astoria replied, following Anya into the house. "That's what I've been insisting. Why else do I have all this training?"

"Because you wanted to protect yourself?" Anya answered.

"Not just," Astoria huffed, crossing her arms. "I want to play a part."

Without replying, Anya threw open the trapdoor and entered the passageway, Astoria followed suit and closed it behind them. She had spent enough time with Anya to know she was considering it, her chances only improved if she kept her mouth closed. So the two of them walked in silence, squeezing through the narrow passage back to the Whomping Willow. Fresh air greeted them as they left the opening between the roots of the Whomping Willow, Anya unfreezing the tree behind them.

"Not all of them," said Anya watching as the Whomping Willow started moving. "Only those where I feel like you can keep up."

Astoria gave a grin which was quickly replaced with a frown. "Your standards are high."

"Yes," Anya nodded, heading back to the castle.

"At least I'm going for some," Astoria sighed, walking beside her. "The coming one?"

"I'll let you if the opportunity ever comes," said Anya. "Remember, cover for me."

XXXXX

"Minister, another question!"

Cameras were flashing everywhere, reporters had their quills in hands and the room was filled with the clapping of the crowd. Fudge gave another cheery wave to the crowd before pointing at the report. Amelia Bones rolled her eyes, Fudge loved nothing more than an appeased crowd.

"Alright, I'm sure one more won't hurt," Fudge chortled.

"Will we be expecting more agreements with the Russians?"

Fudge gave a look to his Russian counterpart and the both of them gave telling smiles to the reporter.

"The St Helensworth Agreement has opened many doors between the two countries, I believe all have been profitable," said Fudge.

Amelia hid her snort. True, many of them were profitable to Britain but all of them overwhelmingly profitable to Russia. She wondered what the bigger picture was, Fudge would not simply concede so much to the Russians, the Wizengamot was definitely divided with frequent clashes regarding the St Helensworth Agreement.

"Naturally, more will follow suit," Fudge continued. "However, we will not be so hasty. It will be a gradual step towards achieving greater international cooperation, making each step towards the right path."

Amelia cast her eyes around the room, landing on Lucius Malfoy smiling from the sides. Forget Fudge, Malfoy was more likely to have a bigger hand in this, he had likely struck a deal with the Russians. Amelia frowned, wondering what Malfoy was benefiting. Gold? The man had plenty but greed was a strong force. Allies? More likely, but for what?

Turning around, Amelia looked at the Russians. They seemed like a suspicious lot, but that was mostly because she only worked closely with their Aurors and almost all of them were masked, creating an inhospitable image. There was a saying among some of the Wizengamot that the Minister was a puppet that danced to the hands around him, looking at people like Malfoy, Amelia could confirm that for Britain. She wondered if that was the same for the Russian Minister. That was exactly the cause for a bad gut feeling with Amelia, there were no hands she had seen around the Minister instead they were many masks. At every single instance, the Russian Minister of Magic had at least three masked Russian Aurors standing by him.

Hands, she could identify, isolate and observe. However, the unidentifiable masks hovering around the Russian Minister gave her a sense of unease. Amelia did not like it when a hand chose to act through proxies, it made things messy. The few in Britain who did that had given her enough of a headache, now it seems that all the Russian hands acted that way. It was not to say she could not identify a single one, she was already looking at one.

Balding, stout and sitting on a wheelchair, the man was an odd sight among the Russian Aurors. The man himself was dressed in the dark blue combat robes Russian Aurors wore but he wore no mask. Amelia could immediately tell that man was special, his aged appearance marked him as a senior among Aurors but more importantly, an aged man who sat on a wheelchair but still wore an Auror's robes was no ordinary person. The fact that he was one of few who did not wear a mask accentuated that the Auror on a wheelchair was not normal.

Amelia searched for a name in head and remembered. Sergei, Senior Russian Auror, no particular role within the Russian Auror Department but - from her observations - wielding too much influence. The fact that so many of the masked Russian Aurors - those that lingered with the Russian Minister - traded whispers with Sergei frequently solidified the idea that Sergei was one of the hands that moved the puppet strings.

For the time being, the wheelchair-bound Auror seemed content to sit quietly in the corner of the room, watching the two Ministers. Fudge and his Russian counterpart finally left the room, leaving Amelia free to do her work. She took the first opportunity to leave, heading to the Ministry elevators and back to her office. Laying on her desk was a letter waiting to be sent to the Russians, she could have used the owls but she felt better delivering it by hand, there was a joint Anglo-Russian Auror training session she wanted to inspect as well.

Disapparating, Amelia appeared in front of Auror Training Ground C, West Sussex. It was currently used to house Russian Aurors operating here as part of the St Helensworth Agreement. Amelia made her way to the office of the Russian Auror overseeing their British intervention, Senior Auror Yuri Yessey. Amelia rolled her eyes, at least this one had a family name. The concept of a family name in Wizarding Russia was mostly abandoned, considered as a relic of the previous century. Yessey was not in, but his assistant accepted her letter after a brief exchange of words. Once the letter was passed, Amelia headed to the training grounds for her inspection. It was a surprise when she bumped into a wheelchair-bound Auror, pushed by a masked Auror.

"Senior Auror Sergei," Amelia nodded in greeting.

"Madam Bones," Sergei replied. "On your way to inspect the joint training? So was I."

Amelia took the cue and walked over, Sergei gave a snap and the Auror behind him began pushing the wheelchair. Amelia fell in step beside him and the two - three, if you counted the masked third wheel - made their way down the corridor.

"How has your side been in terms of dealing with the Black Mark?" Sergei asked.

"Fine," Amelia replied crisply. "The training from your side in dealing with the Black Mark was much appreciated, though I will say there is too much difference in our methods, we British are too used to fighting against the methods Death Eaters used to employ."

"That much is true," Sergei chuckled. "Though I must say, your British Aurors are more powerful."

"Top marks in NEWTs is the bare minimum requirement after all," Amelia raised an eyebrow. She knew Britain was the only country to have such strict requirements for Aurors, it left them with the smallest Auror Corps amongst the powerful countries of the Wizarding World. However, it was certainly the most elite, the British khaki was famous throughout the Wizarding World.

Sergei nodded in silent agreement as they reached the observation post. It was an elevated shed, giving them a view over a set of walls and doors meant to simulate the interiors of a building, there was no roof or ceiling so that observers like her could see the training from above. Amelia understood that Muggles had something similar called a kill house where they trained to duel inside buildings.

"Our Aurors seem to be getting along fine," Sergei observed the training. "The language barrier is not as bad as I feared."

"Much of the credit goes to your side," said Amelia, watching as a British Auror tore down a wall with a Bombarda, allowing two Russian Aurors to enter the room. "The fact that all your technical terminologies are in English and that most of your Aurors speak enough English is a surprise. A welcome one, but a surprise nonetheless."

For a moment, the two watched as the two Russian Aurors cast Stunning Spells in synchrony, taking out two targets.

"Yessey was not in office," said Amelia. "So pass these words. Allowing Russian Aurors access to the British National Ward Grid is unacceptable, regardless of how much it would boost their effectiveness against the Black Mark."

Based on all the agreements and deals Fudge was making with the Russians, Amelia suspected a deal regarding the National Ward Grid was an eventuality. She had already heard whispers.

"Why bring it to me?" Sergei raised an eyebrow. "Why bring it to our side at all? Bring this to your Minister Fudge, he has the final say."

"And he will say yes because he's wrapped around the fingers of the hands that move the Ministry, mainly Malfoy," Amelia snorted, glancing at Sergei. "Hands that seem to have vested interests in appeasing your side. I do not care much for these games, but there will be public outrage if we open this door to your side. Public outrage would not help anyone, you or me. If the hands around the my Minister has set their sights, then it is time to bring it to the hands that move the Russian Minister."

"And are you not one of these 'hands'?" Sergei asked.

The implication that Sergei himself was a hand did not go unnoticed, but neither of them raised it.

"I have a country to safeguard," Amelia scowled. "Not personal power to hoard."

Maybe it was the ex-Hufflepuff in her, but Amelia had always found it distasteful to pull unnecessary strings in the Ministry. Even more distasteful when the prime example of the hands were Blood Purist clinging on to power as views towards Muggles and Muggleborn grow less discriminating. It was her belief that though these hands hold all the glory, it was from the backs of hardworking individuals that a country prospered. Yes, it was definitely the old Hufflepuff in her.

"Narrow-minded," said Sergei nonchalantly, ignoring Amelia's glare. "You could do much more by being a hand. I've safeguarded my country by being a hand."

Amelia's eyes widened as she stared at Sergei, her mind placing the pieces together. It was then that she realised her Russian counterpart was not sitting in an office in Moscow. The official Russian Head of DMLE may be in Moscow, but the true Russian Head of DMLE was right beside her.

"I understand your concerns about the National Ward Grid, you raise a good point," said Sergei, placing a cigar in his mouth and exhaling.

"So you will have words with your Minister?" Amelia asked, trying not to stare at how the cigar lit up from an exhale, a casual display of powerful wandless and nonverbal magic.

"Leo, Bagrationi," Sergei stared coldly at Amelia, a silence passed between them before Sergei continued. "I do believe we can work together."

Sergei extended an open hand. Amelia shook it, hiding her surprise as Sergei snapped his fingers and the Auror behind him turned his wheelchair and pushed him away. An Auror in midnight blue approached them from the entrance to the training grounds, giving Sergei a sharp salute before making his way to Amelia.

"Madam Bones," the Russian saluted. "Auror Lieutenant Lev, I hope everything is to your satisfaction."

"It is," Amelia nodded. "How are the training grounds?"

"Outstanding," said the Auror, Amelia could hear the smile behind the mask. "I see you have spoken to Sergei Bessmertnyy himself. Intimidating man, he is."

"Bessmertnyy?" Amelia replied in confusion. "I thought he didn't have a family name."

"He doesn't," the Auror chuckled. "It's a... uh... prozvishche...a title, a nickname. Yes! Nickname, that's it."

"What does it stand for?" Amelia asked.

"Immortal, undying."

"Dare I ask how?"

"Survived many assassination attempts. No, no, I don't mean the assassins failed," said the Russian Auror as he saw Amelia's raised eyebrow. "I mean many of them got to land their curses, slip their poisons and what not. Senior Auror Sergei survived each of them."

Amelia hid her complete shock, at least she could fathom a possible reason why Sergei was bound to a wheelchair. Maybe the family names among Russian wizards and witches were not family names, but titles and nicknames. Then again, who was she to know? Wizarding Russian had changed radically in the earlier parts of the twentieth century, completely different compared to the rest of Wizarding Europe.

Speaking of names, she had two to look into. Amelia knew she was being moved like a chess piece, Sergei would prevent the Russians from going so far as to prod into the British National Ward Grid and she would in turn look into the names Sergei gave her. It was likely the names were Sergei's political rivals but Amelia would rather work with a fellow DMLE personnel than a lurking player.

Leo and Bagrationi. She had work to do.

XXXXX

Astoria sat in a corner of the library, writing an essay for Charms. Halfway through, she paused and stared at the open window. It had been days since she finished Anya's task and the older girl had yet to inform her of anything. True enough, the weekends went by without a glimpse of Anya. Astoria tried camping next to the common room entrance, waiting for Anya to return but it seemed like she had spent even the night outside of Hogwarts. Upon questioning Daphne if she had seen Anya, her sister merely said not to worry as Anya was already known among her dorm mates for what was dubbed 'late night explorations of Hogwarts'. It was complete rubbish, but Astoria knew no one in Slytherin paid much attention to the aloof transfer student.

Eventually, Anya had to show up for classes when Monday came. Astoria could tell she had been busy, there was a more measured and sharp weariness to Anya's movements, as though the rush of her illicit activities trickled into her school life. She had tried fishing for information, but the older girl's lips were sealed with more often than not an enigmatic smile. As a result, it was a surprise when Astoria heard Anya behind her. Her Charms essay went unattended as she turned to face Anya.

"Eleven o'clock, outside of our common room," Anya said blandly. "Be in proper attire, raise no suspicion. If you're late, I'll assume you can't or won't come."

With just that, Anya left without giving Astoria the chance to reply. Astoria stared in shock at the offer, watching the fifth year exit the library. Slowly, a grin took over her face as she picked up her quill, continuing her essay with renewed vigor as she hummed a happy tune. It was at that point she understood why Anya always insisted on rushing her homework, because there would not be any spare time for doing homework. Following the same footsteps, Astoria made sure she was free of homework before heading for dinner.

Once dinner was over, Astoria rushed for her dorm. Opening her trunk, she began digging out her clothes. It was the same attire as all the training sessions she had with Anya. A shirt and pants in varying dark colours, her set of dueling robes she had tapered and altered with several charms to suit the style of combat Anya had taught her and lastly, her wand holster. She tucked them all neatly under her pillow and went for a shower, intent on preparing herself for a possible long night.

"You're sleeping early," said Ella, one of her friends and dorm mates.

"It's one of those days," Astoria explained vaguely. "Besides, I'm planning on watching the sunrise tomorrow by the lake."

"Why?" Ella raised an eyebrow.

"Just feel like spicing things up," Astoria shrugged, drying her hair. "You want to join?"

"And wake up in the wee hours?" Ella rolled her eyes. "I'll pass. You need me to bring you breakfast?"

"I'll be back in the Great Hall in time for breakfast, no worries," Astoria plopped down onto her bed, discreetly setting her alarm clock and shoving it under her pillow as well

Now, she had an excuse if anyone saw an empty bed. Closing her eyes, Astoria allowed herself to fall into a slumber, getting as much rest before a sleepless night. When her alarm finally woke her up, she turned it off and looked around her. Her dorm mates were all asleep, she was free to sneak out.

Bursting into a flurry of actions, Astoria changed hastily into her prepared outfit. Silently leaving her dorm, Astoria made her way to the common room, checking to see if it was empty. Sadly, there were still two seventh years lounging by the fireplace. Astoria sighed, drawing her wand and tapping the top of her head, hoping it worked as she muttered the incantation. Relief flushed through her body as she felt the trademark sensation of a wet fluid trickling down her head, her training with Anya was already paying off.

With a Disillusionment Charm, Astoria stuck to the shadows as she sneaked out of the common room. She waited for the common room entrance to seal itself before dropping the charm, but before she could reverse the Disillusionment Charm, a voice whispered in her ear.

"That's good, keep the charm there."

"Anya?" Astoria asked, looking around.

"Correct, follow me," Anya whispered.

A single floating water balloon appeared and Astoria suppressed a giggle at Anya's creativity. The water balloon was easy to follow and any witnesses would simply assume it to be Peeves' usual antics. Following the water balloon down the corridors, they ended up in the Hogwarts grounds.

"The Whomping Willow passage?" Astoria asked in sudden realisation.

"That's the one," Anya replied.

As they went through the passage, Anya dropped her concealment spells and Astoria followed suit. The path was familiar by then, with the number of times both girls had snuck out of Hogwarts since the start of the term. Reaching the Shrieking Shack, Astoria watched as Anya drew out a circular device from her jacket. The older girl looked at it for a few moments before cursing softly.

"Good thing we left early," Anya murmured.

"Is there anything going on?" Astoria asked.

"Yes, Portkeys are out and I'm not in the mood to risk splinching one of us."

"You can perform Apparition?"

"Not reliably," Anya replied, waving her wand and about her face, transfiguring her features into a brunette in her thirties. "Come here, I'll need to disguise you as well."

Astoria complied, winching reflexively as Anya pointed her wand at her, muttering out incantations. The strange sensation of liquid wax dribbled down Astoria's face, she could only assume Anya's spells disguised her in some form, her duelling robes had also turned into normal robes. She did not give much thought to it, instead wondering why Portkeys were suddenly unusable. Donning her own cloak, Anya turned and led Astoria down towards Hogsmeade itself.

"Why are Portkeys out?" Astoria asked.

"People are watching," Anya answered cryptically. "Come on, we need to make up for lost time."

The village, though mostly dark, still had soft rays of light filtering from a few buildings. The Hog's Head was one, which was their destination. Anya strode into the building without hesitation, making her way straight to the barkeep, an old man who bore an uncanny resemblance to Professor Dumbledore. Knowing she was of no help here, Astoria stood to a side of the bar, trying to draw as little attention as possible. She watched as Anya exchanged a few words with the barkeep before dropping a sickle on the countertop. Anya waved her over and Astoria followed her, they ended up at the fireplace where Anya took out a small pouch, opening it and extending it to Astoria. Taking a peek at the contents, Astoria saw green powder, Floo.

"Destination?" Astoria muttered as she grabbed a handful of the powder.

"Leaky Cauldron."

Nodding, Astoria threw the powder as she said her destination, stepping into the green flames. A familiar sight greeted her as she stepped out from the fireplace she had frequently used during her summertime hangouts with Anya. The place was mostly empty at such hours, but there were still a few patrons having a rowdy drinking session. Green fire flared up behind her and Anya stepped out from the fireplace place, heading for the door to the Muggle world.

Astoria followed and her mouth opened wide as she stared at the bright London nightlife. Illumination from buildings, cars and street lights lit the city up as Muggles walked about as though it was day. Astoria was sure Diagon Alley had its share of nightly liveliness but coming one of the many small wizarding communities that the Purebloods favoured, it was an eye-opener.

"Do keep up," said Anya, quickening her pace. "We're being watched, and I'm keen on leaving before they decide we're worth following."

"Already?" Astoria asked incredulously.

"How many eyes do you think are observing Britain's chief magical district," Anya replied.

"Why head for the Leaky Cauldron then?"

"So people in the Hog's Head won't be suspicious."

"Why didn't we go to Three Broomsticks instead?"

"Madam Rosmerta asks annoying questions."

Muggle London seemed like a maze to Astoria but she was glad Anya knew what to do, it was a short while before Anya dragged her into a crowded pub. Weaving through the people, they soon face a small corner table with a middle-aged man nursing a pint of beer. Anya sat across the man without preamble and gestured to an open seat for Astoria.

"Nice graffiti by Coventry Street, kind of you to provide assistance," said Anya. "Your work?"

"Who else?" the man grinned. "With the Grid jacked to that point, I thought it'd be best if you had some help."

"So the other one is running interference?" Anya asked.

"Yep. Got your pursuers heading to Brixton instead," the man chuckled. "Shall we?"

The man extended both hands and Anya grabbed one, giving Astoria a look.

"Take the hand," said Anya. "We're disapparating."

Astoria obliged, grabbing the other hand and was sucked into the uncomfortable sensation of being forced through a tube. The three of them apparated to an empty room, Astoria watched as Anya and the middle-aged man sprang into action, waving their wands about and casting spells.

"Room's secure," Anya announced, giving her wand a final flick. "I would assume we just need to wait for Jen?"

"Correct," the middle-aged man grunted, turning to inspect Astoria. "So this is your tag-along?"

"Astoria, this is Dimitri," Anya gestured. "Dimitri, Astoria."

"We've met," the man, Dimitri, nodded at Astoria.

"We have?" Astoria asked.

"Lunch before the Fourth Task of the Triwizard Tournament," Dimitri answered.

The memory of a messy brown haired boy joking with Anya across the table surfaced and Astoria nodded in response, it seemed that even he was in disguise. Inspecting the bare and empty room, Astoria peeked out of the window and was greeted with the sight of nighttime city.

"Where are we?" Astoria asked

"City of Manchester," said Dimitri, drawing out a stick of cigarette.

"Gorm's Magical Equipment?" Astoria guessed.

"You know your work," Dimitri grinned.

"What are we doing?"

"Duplicating and collecting information."

Well, that was one way to find out any suspicious buyers. However, Astoria realised an issue.

"You do know their office is beside the regional Auror station," Astoria looked at Anya. "I thought this is supposed to be a safer one."

"It is," Anya replied. "We have a cover to get in without raising suspicion."

"Which-"

A loud crack interrupted her words and all three aimed their wand at the source, looking at the newcomer. Dimitri and Anya dropped their aim and Astoria decided to mimic them.

"Took your time," Dimitri stubbed out his cigarette.

"I always thought that was a line reserved for you, Dim," the newcomer chuckled.

He had a stocky build and looked about the same age as Dimitri's facade but Astoria knew it was a disguise as well, leaving the true face of this man unknown. Based on Dimitri and Anya's exchange, she could only guess this to be Jen. Jen stared at Astoria for a second before looking back at Dimitri, seemingly accepting her presence without question.

"The pursuers?" Anya asked.

"Lost," Jen shrugged. "It's almost one o'clock, we should get moving."

"We stick with the plan," said Dimitri. "I will do the talking, you two will sweep the records. Astoria, just follow Anya. Since you're the one that came up with our list of targets, there might be something that you notice. Since you girls are out of the loop, just keep your mouths shut."

"Astoria, take this," Anya passed a pistol to Astoria, who accepted it without question. "Use it if things get lethal. Nonetheless we're sticking to stunning and avoiding fatalities."

The weight of the Makarov pistol was already a familiar comfort, Astoria noticed it was different from the one she trained with. It had lines of runes engraved into the metal, cementing the fact that this was a real deal.

Dimitri grabbed Astoria's arm and she watched as Jen did the same to Anya before they disapparated once more. They appeared on the street this time, with a row of brick buildings in front of them. Dimitri took the lead, Anya and Jen immediately fell into place at the flanks. Astoria chose to stick behind Anya.

"Take note, Auror," Anya muttered. "Ten o'clock, twenty metres, the drunkard laying on the pavement."

Astoria glanced over at the direction, seeing a drunk Muggle laying slump against the wall.

"What is he doing?" Astoria asked.

"Disguised sentry," Anya answered softly. "He guards the front entrance to the Auror station. Don't worry, we have every reason to be here."

"At one in the morning?"

"Yes."

They stopped in front of a closed shop named Gorm's Emporium. Dimitri stepped forward and knocked on the door. To Astoria's surprise, there were still people operating the building at this ungodly hour. A bearded man in wizarding robes opened the door and looked at them expectantly.

"And you are?" the bearded man asked.

"Mr Parks," Dimitri nodded. "Here on behalf of Ethan Dawn, for the meeting with Mr Gorm."

Astoria bit her cheeks to hide her surprise, Ethan Dawn was a very well known name in magical business. No wonder they were confident in slipping in if this was their cover.

"Ah yes," the bearded man bowed. "We were expecting you. Come in, all of you. Gorm is waiting for you, why did Dawn even schedule for such an hour is beyond us."

"It's not my job to question my boss," Dimitri said jokingly, stepping into the building.

"Perfectly understandable, and who are these accompanying you?"

"My assistant-cum-bodyguards" Dimitri replied, giving a lazy wave at the rest. "They will help inspect the goods."

They followed the bearded man upstairs, passing by various office tables, some still manned despite the hour. Stopping in front of a door, the bearded man opened it and ushered Dimitri inside.

"Here, Mr Parks, Gorm is waiting for you," the bearded man murmured. "The three of you, I'll believe you wish to inspect the goods."

Jen nodded and they were led further upstairs, into a room filled with boxes and shelves, clearly the storage room of the building. Several workers were busy taking inventory of the items on the shelves, along with a house elf sweeping the floor.

"Gentlemen," the bearded man coughed. "The people from Dawn Enterprises are here, you know what to do."

The men replied with nods and drew their wands, summoning out various boxes and opening them. Astoria peered over and saw golden rods arranged in neat stacks within.

"Here you are," the bearded men gestured. "The finest Probity Probes on the market."

Jen reached forward and took one, bringing it close to his eyes for inspection. He twisted it around and muttered a few spells before placing it back down.

"Acceptable."

"Very well," the bearded men nodded. "The Foe-Glass then."

Another box was taken out, Astoria glanced over at Anya who was absorbing every detail of their surroundings. The older girl locked eyes with Jen for a moment before shifting behind Astoria and speaking in a soft whisper. "No dark magic, they or the Aurors next door might have Dark Detectors. No permanent damage. I need you to cast a Deafening Jinx on yourself without being noticed. Don't look in my direction."

Nodding, Astoria drew her wand and jinxed herself with a soft mutter before stowing her wand again. The men levitated another box in front of them before opening it. Astoria felt a shift in the air and watched as clear, crisp shadows manifested on the Foe-Glass, an indication of nearby enemies. The workers gasped at the sight but Anya and Jen were already moving. The two spun around, turning back to back, and fired off spells at the same time. Anya's Stunning Spell caught the errant house elf in the corner while Jen's spell sent a sensation through the room which Astoria could recognise as that of privacy charms.

The gravity of the situation set in as people around them started aiming their wands. A blur from her periphery caught Astoria's attention and her eyes were drawn to a cylindrical object above Anya and Jen, slowing as it reached the apex of its trajectory, beside it was a small lever detaching from the object. Realisation hit Astoria like a bucket of cold water and she immediately turned around, watching as the room was painted in a bright light. Thanks to the Deafening Jinx, all she heard was a soft thump as the flashbang exploded. Her wand snapped into her palm with practiced ease and she took aim at the staggering people.

"Stupefy! Stupefy!"

Red bolts hit her targets square on the chest as two men crumpled onto the ground. A burst of red light came from her side and she turned around swiftly, her wand at the ready. She was met with the falling body of the last standing opponent, the rest were already laying on the floor. Facing Anya, she gave her senior a look of surprise.

"Don't look at me," Anya shook her head with a slight grin. "Jen's the one who's quick with a wand. By the way, good hits."

"Save the praise for later, secure these people first," said Jen, smiling nonetheless. "Crow, wards. Astoria, help tie them up."

Astoria nodded and got to work, making use of the Incarcerous Spell to bind the unconscious people.

"I have a question," said Astoria.

"You always do," Anya snorted, craving runes on wooden blocks and laying them around the room.

"How did you guys get Ethan Enterprises to give you a window to slip in?" Astoria asked.

"We did Ethan Dawn himself a favour during the Quidditch World Cup," said Anya. "Come on, we need to get going. Jen, you done?"

Astoria turned to see Jen grabbing the hair of the bearded man, staring into his eyes. Jen remained silent for seconds before shoving the man onto the floor and stunning him.

"Records room is on the third floor, facing the main street," Jen announced. "Most corridors should be empty. Cast concealment spells."

Astoria had Anya cast the concealment spells for her, she knew it was not just a Disillusionment Charm, the concealment was exceedingly well done. A hand grabbed her by the shoulder and she heard a voice. "Anya will be leading, since you're unfamiliar with this, I'll push you along."

With Jen's guidance, they slowly made their way to the nearest staircase, silently making their way up. Astoria could feel her hairs on her neck stand with each spell the other two cast. She had absolutely no idea what they were doing, but she knew that she was far from their league. Jen stopped Astoria near a door and she could hear Anya's voice.

"Door. Warded. Interwoven wards, two layers, absorbs physical and magical shock."

"The lock?" Jen asked.

"You'll need a blood authentication along with a key. Lock's connected to somewhere upstairs, I suspect every entry is recorded."

"Jam that possible connection, I'll deal with the ward."

Astoria stood in silence as she heard the two exchange words in hushed tones. Their concealment charms preventing her from seeing anything worthwhile.

"I'm ready on my end," Jen's disembodied voice reached Astoria's ear. "What about you, Anya?"

"Rune will be active... now. Interference running... clean. The door is magically isolated, you're clear to crack the ward."

A brilliant blue flash burst from the door and it swung wide open. Once again, Astoria was guided into the room. Looking around, she could see rows and rows of shelves, all filled with various files. The door closed behind them and the concealment spells were dropped.

"I'd say we only duplicate the files of this year," Jen suggested. "The rest would be unlikely to have what we need."

"What do you think, Astoria?" Anya asked.

The suggestion was sound, the St Helensworth incident only occured this summer. It would not be possible for their mystery buyer to act before that. Astoria gave a quick nod and they went to work. They surveyed the shelves, searching for accounting documents and proceeded with a liberal application of the Doubling and Summoning Charms. A bag modified with an Extension Charm was placed in the middle of the room and within ten minutes they had filled it with the necessary documents.

"That's everything," said Anya, checking the shelves for a final time. "We should head back to the previous room and clean up."

Making their way back to the storage room, they erased any trace of their fight. Runes were vanished and memories modified. The staff of Gorm's Magical Equipment were left with the impression that their inspection of items were completed and promptly led the three back to the room where Dimitri was.

"Is everything fine?" Dimitri asked Jen when he noticed them.

"Everything accounted for," Jen nodded.

"I suppose that concludes our meeting," Dimitri turned to face the man sitting opposite of him, Astoria could only assume him to be Gorm himself. "We'll pay via a transaction on Gringotts and send our people to collect on Wednesday."

"Sounds good," said Gorm. "Shall we have a toast?"

"No thanks," Dimitri shook his head. "I have just as much clue as you regarding why Dawn called for a meeting at this hour, but I'm eager to finally go home and sleep."

"Understandable," Gorm laughed. "Very well, we'll call it a night."

They left the building and back into the quiet streets. Astoria heaved a sigh of relief.

"Not too tough, right?" said Anya.

"Surprisingly, no," Astoria laughed awkwardly, still astounded by the events of the night. "Is it always like this?"

"The nicer ones are," Dimitri answered. "Some are more ugly."

"And all the information we took?" Astoria turned to Jen.

"We'll pass it to someone else to process them," Jen replied, digging out two coins. "Just checked, you two are clear to portkey."

He threw the coins at the girl, Anya grabbed one while grinning, saying a quick 'thanks' before disappearing. Astoria caught her and she reappeared at the outskirts of Hogsmeade. She looked at Anya who was already making her way back to the Shrieking Shack and thought to herself: what a night.