Chapter 2
My name is Remus J. Lupin.
I was spending that day as I typically do i.e. reading a book and wishing my worries away. When a grey owl tapped on my window. I glanced up and waved my hand, silently willing the window to open. In came the owl with a letter in its beak. It dropped the letter on my lap and perched on the table beside my tea.
Looking at the paper, I realized it was a muggle envelope. It was a pale green and smelled of chocolate oranges. A pleasant scent, I noted while reading the address.
For: Remus Lupin
Address: Yorkshire, 659 Lake View.
The letters were in thin black ink. I opened the envelope and was met with two small chocolate candies and two pieces of paper. They were both dark chocolate and orange candies. That was why the envelope smelled so delicious.
Dear Mr. Remus Lupin.
Hello, I'm happy to introduce myself as Ava Smith. I am also thrilled to share some very good news regarding Sirius Black. Alongside bad news regarding Harry Potter, Sirius Black, and Peter Pettigrew. I know what you're probably thinking 'That Traitor Siriusly better be-' but what if I told you he wasn't the secret-keeper?
My eyes widened, I was much too shell-shocked at the moment to register the pun properly. I inspected the chocolate candy more carefully; truffles that were individually wrapped and nothing more. How curious...
I have a lot of things to explain with limited paper. It doesn't matter who I am, where I came from, or even how I know what I know. Just try to understand that I am a friend.
Starting from the beginning at Godric's Hollow after the attack. Rubeus Hagrid was to deliver Harry Potter to the Dursley's on Dumbledore's order despite Sirius being the rightful guardian.
Sirius chased after Peter Pettigrew and 'killed' him, was then put on 'trial' and convicted of 'murder'. According to all reports, Sirius was the secret keeper who blabbed to Voldemort.
But my question for you. Do you really believe that a man whose animagus form is a dog is capable of betrayal? It's possible, but let me poke a few holes into this story without stating the obvious of Peter being a rat for now. After all, it's rude to assume things, right?
Firstly, I have to wonder since Sirius is the best friend, wouldn't it be too obvious to make him a secret keeper? I don't believe Lily or James Potter were so predictable. Maybe James, but Lily was a smart woman.
It appears this person understands them to an extent. I couldn't help chuckling, remembering how much of a knucklehead James was.
But what really interests me is that there is a spell that obliterates everything, leaving only bits of skin left of the muggles. But leaves the finger of the main target intact. Now I ask you, Remus, what kind of spell does that?
I took a moment to think. I've certainly never heard of that kind of spell, but there were a lot of dark spells that exist that barely anyone knows. Sirius had ready access to the Black archives and all sorts of dark magic if he so wanted. But it did get my mind stirring on this.
It makes you at least wonder, right? Sure magic is mysterious, however, it still has rules. Here's the thing, though: the spell should have hit Peter straight on. If a spell that powerful actually hit Peter, there should have been only bits of skin, hair, and blood at the scenes.
It obliterated the muggles, who only got a small taste of the blast in such away. It doesn't make any logical sense for an entirely intact finger to have been left behind. Peter's own blood was merely a few drops, but the muggles' blood was all over the crime scene.
I looked at both the wizarding files and the muggles files for the case. It just doesn't match up. It must have been a very specific spell or there is another possibility.
Could it be that Peter faked his own death? No, this letter, what if it's just something to give me false hope for Sirius to be redeemed? But it was a very convincing letter. It made me want to look into this all further. The sender is very clever at least in that they can pique my interest like this.
I am of the opinion that Peter falsified his own death and let Sirius take the fall. Why may you ask? Because Peter was the secret keeper, it only makes the most sense when you think logically.
Sirius is too obvious, Lupin, you are also a bit too on the nose. But Peter? The scrawny, spineless-looking one? He was perfect because no one would suspect it.
But little did the Potter's know that Peter was a two-faced traitor who willingly gave up their location. Peter planned his escape beautifully and calculated that since Sirius was so loyal and headstrong, he'd fall right into the snake pit.
But that's just a theory of mine. However, if it is correct like I know it to be. That leads to a whole spiral of events and conspiracies. I'll just say this: Dumbledore knew that Peter was the secret keeper.
I sat the candy on the arm of the chair as I reread the first-page multiple times. The handwriting was immaculate, and that was the only thing I could get from it other than the feeling in my gut. Dumbledore was our most trusted mentor with these lies, I can't stand for it. I even stood up in anger, the emotion boiling within me.
But even so, I eyed the next page warily. I would believe none of it. But I should finish it, just in case, there is some information on how to contact them or anything else. I have to look into this person thoroughly!
You've made it to page two congratulations. Sorry to get you worked up, but I won't go too far into detail regarding Dumbledore. I believe his heart is in the correct place, but his execution is terrible.
However, Dumbledore, Peter, Sirius, Lily, and James were the only ones who knew about this at the time. That means that Dumbledore let Sirius take the fall. But that's not even my biggest grievance with our dear Headmaster.
Dumbledore placed Harry with his maternal aunt Petunia, even knowing the sort of people they are. The Dursley's are the equivalent of death eaters in the form of muggles. 'It wouldn't be healthy for the boy to get an enormous head' was Dumbledore's reasoning.
As a result of all this, Sirius was put in Azkaban, and Harry has been placed in an abusive household. There is a squab woman watching the house, however, she hasn't reported the abuse even once.
I understand it's a lot to take in, and a letter like this is very suspicious. However, take from it as you will. The truth will come out in gigantic headlines soon enough.
I just figured you would want to see for yourself if my theory is correct. I know a lot more about the situation than most. If you want to know what is fact, then join us in our quest for the one and only truth on the 14th. I, my father, a lawyer and some Azkaban guards will be using a Tattle Tail to get some answers.
Feel free to skip out. I'll be more than happy to handle what is approaching on my own. But it would be nice to have some kind of backup for Voldemort's return.
Once you finish reading this letter, the sensitive subjects in this letter will disappear, leaving only a formal request for your appearance and background information for the case.
I chose the date especially since I know your monthly affliction leaves you at your best that day. If you do decide to come, I'd be more than happy to answer your questions in a secure environment.
From: Ava Smith
P.S I know you like chocolate so I added some muggle chocolate orange candy. They're my personal favorite.
P.S.S I'll ask you not to mention my wealth of knowledge to anyone until both of us can have the proper discussion I know we both need. Things are complicated at the moment.
The letter had rearranged itself to be much more formal once I'd read it all. I don't know why who or how, but that letter had enticed me. And the chocolates had been delicious. I could see why this 'Ava Smith' said they're her favorite.
Inevitably, I had found myself approaching the ferry to Azkaban against all of my better judgments. Perhaps this was revenge for bullying Snape back when we were children came to haunt me? I felt as if someone was making a fool of me as I approached the ferry.
On the ferry was a tall brown-haired man with grey eyes who had a typical black business suit and grey tie. To his left was a black-haired man, with onyx black eyes, a rather fancy suit, and tie. Across from them was the ferryman, who was in the Azkaban security uniform.
However, the one who really caught my eye was the one who sat between the men in business suits. She had long silky brown hair, shocking grey eyes, and in stark contrast to the gloomy atmosphere had a long-sleeved blue shirt with spades on them, navy blue jeans, and black combat boots.
This girl had an air of comforting calm around her. So comforting and calm the gloomy atmosphere around us all seemed to dissipate a bit. Despite that, she looked only about 7 years of age. Her striking grey eyes lit up upon spotting me and she jumped up from her seat. Her expression gave me the impression this girl had a wealth of knowledge wrapped up inside the little brain of hers. She clearly recognized me, and something about her was familiar. I just couldn't place it.
"Mr. Lupin, you actually came!" Her voice was simply ecstatic and full of energy. "Uh, I mean, welcome oh and I brought tons of chocolate!"
The girl proudly showed me the box full of chocolate goodness. I couldn't stop the smile that spread across my face. A good kid, but why was she here? In a place like this? Who is this child and why have the Azkaban auroras allowed this at all!? We're going to be around Dementors for crying out loud a seven-year-old girl should not be here!
"Hello Mr. Lupin, I'm Trevor Smith." The rather handsome-looking man stood up and offered his hand in greeting. "This is my daughter Ava, and that is our lawyer Mr. Rubart Gail."
I politely shook each man's hand, however my gaze strayed back to Ava who looked like she'd been caught red-handed. It reminded me of when Lily caught James copying her notes without asking. So innocent, how could this little girl be the one who sent that letter!? I have definitely been made a fool of there was no doubt in my mind.
"Ava found the discrepancy and demanded she be brought along," Gail said, and judging from his expression, he was even less happy about her being here than I was. "Once we land, we'll be accompanied by guards and a news reporter."
"Officially Daddy is the one who found it!" Ava said, looking alarmed at being outed so quickly.
Trevor patted her head with a wry smile. This man was clearly terrified, but he tried his best to keep his calm. Trevor didn't strike me as a fool, so that begs the question. Why is there a child here!? I just can't fathom how the Ministry let this happen at all.
Apart from my grievance with a child being here, they were all nicely dressed enough, and it made me feel a bit self-conscious. I sat across from them as the ferry started moving. I was here, and it had been a hassle to be thoroughly searched by the aurora guards, so I had no choice but to keep going. I am not the type to turn back halfway after all. But sometimes I wish I was.
The air was freezing and Ava put on her gloves after a moment and patted the backpack on the floor beside her. For traveling into Azkaban you had to be checked before and after the ferry for any contraband. But it seems like she was prepared enough.
"So Mr. Lupin." Trevor began and my attention snapped to him. "What are your thoughts regarding this situation?"
My thoughts? My stomach wouldn't stop churning at either possibility. Peter and Sirius had both been my closest of friends. If Sirius is innocent, then I'll be furious, and even if he isn't, I'll still be rather livid. I don't want to so much as even think of him if it really is true. If he really killed James...
"Happy to know Sirius was innocent, but if not…" I trailed off the thought of being toyed with like this, well that angered me.
"I am 99.99% certain I am correct," Ava confirmed with such certainty it was commendable. "It's understandable that we would want death eaters to go straight to Azkaban, but with such magic as the ministry has access to, I'm pretty disappointed in the underutilization of it."
"Confidence is good, but let's not get our hopes up," Gail said, so even the lawyer was dubious of this.
"If Sirius Black really is guilty, I'll relinquish my magic powers," Ava stated all eyes fixed on Ava.
I didn't doubt she would actually give up her powers if she was wrong. But her innocent confidence lifted my spirits just a little. She radiated such innocence it made getting closer to Azkaban fade to the back of my mind. Ava offered everyone chocolate, so she knew that it helps when being around Dementors. What a bright child.
"Chocolate helps when being around Dementors. Or so I've heard a rather wise wolf say." Ava giggled her eyes, twinkling it made me think about how Dumbledore's eyes twinkled.
This girl was suspicious of even Dumbledore, though even so I gladly ate the chocolate, and it was delicious. The atmosphere on the ferry wasn't tense at all. That was until the tall black building came into view. And the Dementor's could be seen patrolling the skies. Fear crept into my spine as the chill from the island harshly made contact with my skin and seemed to travel deep into my bones.
Ava's Prov
I took hold of my father's hand, remembering that he couldn't see Dementors. However, I was awed by the somber elegance the Dementors portrayed flying around the tower. It was definitely chilly, but I didn't really feel much colder than I would on a chilly, rainy day. Though I felt my father's hand was like ice. It must be terrifying for him, while I have the benefit of knowing a bit of this world. I am actually rather excited to see Dementors up close.
"Don't worry dad we're fine," I said gently and I could feel his grip loosen a bit.
The ferry docked and two guards met us once we climbed off. There wasn't much interesting about them other than their wary faces. Terry had blond hair and brown eyes, and Dale had black hair and blue eyes. They checked our belongings, and I took the time to observe a Dementor who had wandered a bit close.
"Do Dementor's have names like people?" I offered the question since the Dementor was definitely in earshot.
Truly, he or she was a bit scary. I don't like the cold, however; I tend to have plenty of depression, so it was easy enough to ignore that. The Dementor's head turned directly to me and I could just barely see the sickly skin under his hood. I had so many questions and rather than feeling depressed and gloomy; I was just excited.
"Some of us keep our original names." Woah-ha, hearing others' voices in your head is so weird.
"Do you?" I was immediately way more ecstatic and interested in him now since we could actually communicate easier than I had expected. "My name's Ava!"
The Dementor glided further down but stayed a fair distance away. I suppose he understood that his presence might alarm the adults. No, actually they were probably already alarmed, but I am just way too excited to care!
"Seth," Their voice was still a bit strange to hear in my mind but it was also very cool.
Besides, that's such an epic name that suited a Dementor very well. Ah this is so outstanding I can't help it my inner nerd is screaming to learn more!
"Seth?" I tilted my head. "That's a cool name. You definitely picked it yourself, didn't you?"
Seth's shoulders shook, and he pressed a bony hand over his mouth. Ah, he has a sense of humor. My fear was completely gone now because this shows that Dementors aren't mindless at all. Therefore, there is no reason for me to fear him. Then I took a look at the adults, giving me very disturbed looks.
Remus and Mr. Gail looked so disturbed and confused it was laughable. The Guards' mouths hung open and my Dad was just disturbed that I was likely talking to an invisible nightmare monster like I would a friend… Oi Dad, don't look at me like that! I felt offended at being looked at like something strange and mildly terrifying. Then again, if I saw a child talking to an invisible soul-sucking monster so casually, I would also be a little freaked out.
"I have so many questions, but we have to visit Sirius now. Could I take some of your time later, uh, Mr. Seth?" I sheepishly remembered that Sirius was kind of being tormented every moment of his being here…
But also Seth is so cool I just want to stay here and let the adults handle it all. That wasn't going to be fine, judging from Dad's expression. Shame I really want to talk to Seth… He seems super cool. Seth's hand covered his face that was already hidden under his hood. Oi, stop laughing at me!
"Pffft" He laughed, anyway.
"Oi, stop laughing!" I scowled when Seth's shoulders shook more, and he was likely doing his best not to laugh out loud.
Seth seriously, it's not that funny… I pouted seriously, annoyed.
"Kid you're rather brave aren't you?" Gail wiped the nervous sweat from his brow.
His eyes darted between me and the bemused Dementor, but for some reason, he looked at me like I had seven heads rather than the Dementor who was laughing! Why am I the only strange one, huh?
"I'm just curious, okay! There's hardly any actual information about Dementors, also Seth seems cool." Seth in response to my statement cocked his head to the side. "Even though he's laughing at stupid things!"
"I'll answer any questions you have then," Seth spoke out loud as now everyone could hear him, but he was clearly still amused. "But I have to wonder why such an amusing girl is in a place meant for the scum of humanity."
"As if the Ministry isn't garbage enough at what they do they let a child into this place…" Seth added this as if it was an afterthought. Oh haha, he's roasting the Ministry too. That is amazing.
Does Seth have a moral code? That was surprising and a wonderful discovery. Dementors are capable of thinking for themselves then. I completely forgot my annoyance from him laughing at me a moment ago. While the guards still looked visibly and mentally destroyed, as if they couldn't handle this situation at all.
"We believe Sirius Black was framed, so we're confirming that today. Sirius didn't even get a trial after all." Trevor spoke up so he could hear Seth well that's good at least. Seth held a finger up to his temple as if in thought.
"Well, that does explain why Darline likes him so much…" Seth sounded unamused now and said their name as if it was a blight on his honor.
Seth must be a very proud person. But I also got the feeling he was a good person as well.
"So if you'll excuse us for now." I offered, and Seth nodded before flying rather quickly in another direction.
"That was interesting…" Remus said once his shock had died down a bit. "I know the guards have to communicate with the Dementors, but I hadn't known they were so capable of normal human speech."
"Typically, when we communicate with them, it isn't so pleasant." The guard on our right said.
"Maybe it's because you're too rude to ask their name," I said it rather cheekily to which the guards made a very sour expression. "Or I'm just so adorable."
"I'm not cute at all, though." I thought offhandedly.
I turned to see Trevor turning a bit more confident. He couldn't see Seth or the others, but if the Dementors were capable of rational thought, then there was a bit less to worry about at this moment. Gail also seemed to be less wary. The atmosphere around Seth hadn't been cold at all, I noted actually it had been rather warm. Until he mentioned 'Darline' and then his aura had become cold and sober again. Do Dementors affect the surrounding air temperature based on their mood?
Inside, the building was rather dark and dreary. There was the occasional scream or cell door that gave us a peek at the inmates inside. My skin crawled, knowing the gazes would lock onto us whenever we were in sight. I also knew most of them had quite the muggle body count. It would be a dangerous place if the Death Eaters had befriended the Dementors already. But I doubt that's the case. It makes me wonder what the catalyst was to make them all join Voldemort in the end.
I only stopped moving a moment once I got sight of Bellatrix Lestrange. Her wild mane of black hair, crazed onyx eyes, and sickly pale skin. We locked eyes, and I considered for a moment. It was tempting to be cocky, however, I'm not entirely confident I will be able to do what I want if she were to break out early. Plus, there were my parents and their safety to consider. Weighing the risk, I decided to just keep moving.
Though now my mind was full of thoughts and trying to keep track of all the lore I knew. It was a bit challenging seeing as I was playing it all by memory alone. I like to think I'm rather well versed in most things Harry Potter, however, this was now my life. There are things that were never mentioned in the books at all. In this world anything was possible and because I'm not the main character failure is more than just a possibility.
I knew that Voldemort's name would call upon death eaters during the war. It struck fear in most people because of that. I was still curious about Bella's backstory and if there was more to it. But my curiosity might get me and everyone else killed if I'm not careful. After all, the only ones who would know Bella well would be rather tricky to get truthful information from.
In fact, I was curious about most of the people here. Their ideology wasn't touched upon much other than them just being 'racist' but I have to wonder what led them to become as such. Was it their parents' teachings? The seeking of power? Or both?
"Where is Mr. Lovegood?" I heard my father speak up.
This was a good question. I was also beginning to wonder about this.
"Mr. Lovegood said he'd be a bit late in arriving," Gail answered. "Though I'm not sure why you wanted him…"
"The Quibbler states the facts without trying to exaggerate. You can tell at a glance that the Prophet dresses their articles with whatever will sell, true or not." I said it rather blandly. "I only want to associate with people who do their jobs right, We've got no time for people like Rita Skeeter and that ridiculous oaf Cornelius Fudge."
I wanted to put off dealing with their buffoonery for as long as humanly possible. Plus, a news story like this would help Mr. Lovegood a lot. But now that I think about it, I could probably prevent Mrs. Lovegood from getting herself killed… There were so many things I still have to set up before Hogwarts takes all of my time away.
"... Noted." Gail made a rather amusing face as if he both approved and regretted this was something a child had said.
"Mr. Smith you have an interesting daughter…" Remus said bemusedly too, which Trevor groaned.
"Perhaps a tad too interesting for her own good…" Trevor sounded and looked absolutely exhausted.
Remus chuckled a bit at Trevor's blatant wish for nothing more than to get this over with. It was the consensus from all the adults. I however wanted to barrage Seth with lots of questions until he was sick of my existence.
"I promise to give you a nice long break after we settle the Sirius matters first."
I heard Remus clear his throat not to laugh at the horrible pun. I turned to eye the quiet Ministry personnel. They didn't have much presence; I got the feeling they were expecting this to be a waste of time so they were sent to entertain the request. Or else the publicity from this might cause bigger waves for Cornelious. I could imagine they were thinking the headline 'Foolish Muggle Takes A Child To Azkaban On a Hunch.' Or something similar on the Daily Prophet.
"Sirius' cell is just ahead," Dale informed after catching my gaze.
I got the feeling they made us take the long way. Expecting my father to lose his nerve. These wizards need to stop being so arrogant. But actually, my father is super cool since he looks like he's doing better than he was before. My Dad is a brave man I smiled thinking this.
"You think it's a fool's errand?" I chuckled a bit. "The truth will be revealed soon enough. Right, Popa?"
"The lack of evidence and clear laziness of the first investigation gave us a foothold at least," Trevor said thoughtfully. "I know Sirius was framed."
"And if you're wrong?" Remus questioned dubiously.
"So much doubt." I feigned offense. "Suppose it can't be helped. Oi Sirius Black, we're here to prove your innocence." I stated once I spotted a shaggy black mop of hair inside the cell.
We'd finally arrived to see his pitch-black eyes lulled up as if thinking he was imagining things. I didn't blame him. I pulled out the sack full of clothes in my bag. Eyeing Terry before handing it to him. Poor Sirius looked ragged and ready to keel over any moment.
"Would you mind giving these to him?"
I noted Remus' expression darkening upon seeing his old friend. I wondered if it was the terrible state the man was in or if he hated him too much right now. I felt terrible for Sirius who I knew was innocent yet being treated so horribly. I couldn't imagine the ache in his soul from all of this.
"There's water, snacks, and a fresh set of clothes. And yes, we're real and not figments of your imagination." Trevor piped up and I could see he wasn't happy at all with everything he could see here.
Terry went into the cell and put the sack within reach of Sirius before he backed away. I stepped out of view of him so I didn't get to see his expression upon opening the bag. All the contents had been checked thoroughly, and I was more than happy to give Sirius some comfort, if even a little.
"Who…" I heard Sirius mutter, and I giggled a bit.
"I'd hurry to change before our reporter friend joins us. We would like to determine the truth as quickly and efficiently as possible." Trevor offered. "We'll have proper introductions once we're face to face."
"Right," I heard Sirius say, though his voice was raspy and dry.
Everyone gave Sirius some privacy so he could change in peace. Once he called that he was done, I poked my head to view him. Sirius was standing with a comfortable set of black sweatpants, a dark red hoodie with a black shirt underneath along with the warm black men's slippers. Sirius looked a bit better at least.
"Hopefully it's to your liking, but it should be much warmer." Sirius locked eyes with me, and I could tell he was rather happy.
"Thank you,"
"Nope, no thanks till you get proven innocent, get rightful custody of Harry, and clean that death trap home of yours." I grimaced a bit. "Not necessarily in that order, I doubt they'd give anyone with that house custody of anyone..."
"Ava, don't forget your manors…" Trevor sighed. "My name is Trevor Smith, this is my daughter Ava, our lawyer Rubart Gail, and you already know Mr. Lupin I presume."
"Old friends," Sirius chuckled warily and sat on the stool at the back of the cell. "Why now?"
To Sirius this was a rather sudden event, I'm sure, but far too late since he'd had no hope by now. I rubbed my chin a bit.
"It took a while to sort out a half-competent lawyer," I said seriously peeved while even thinking about it. "It's absolutely revolting that most of the wizarding lawyers even have a license to practice law. Their incompetence was staggering."
"Miss. Smith's qualifications are rather high…" Gail warily eyed me and I grinned.
"Mr. Gail here is such a fine lawyer. So we can definitely nail those Dursley's to the wall on both ends." Trevor added and coughed upon seeing the wizard's looks. "Figuratively, I don't approve of actually nailing people to walls…"
The guards relaxed a bit after that clarification.
"How is he?" Sirius questioned, and I looked at the ceiling and swayed on my feet.
"Tell you now and have you waste energy being angry about something you can't change at the moment, or wait for later…" I hummed, catching the glint of white hair from down the hall along with another guard.
Gail pulled out what looked to be a lizard the size of a small dog from his bag. It was red and blue and didn't match any known lizards in my memory banks. The lizard he'd shown us before had been a smaller one.
"Just tell me!" Sirius said, and I nodded.
"I won't go into detail now, however, Harry is sleeping in a broom cupboard under the stairs to start with." The lizard glowed blue for a moment.
Sirius, Remus, and the guards had visibly baffled expressions as if they couldn't believe their ears. I eyed Trevor, giving him the signal to continue once Mr. Lovegood was in earshot. He nodded, more than happy to continue where I left off.
"That's only the start of it, however a full explanation on everything will need to come at a later date. Seeing as Mr. Lovegood has arrived." Trevor nodded his head toward the man in greeting.
I smiled upon seeing him. His white as snow hair really did look like candy floss, his robe really was an eye-watering pale yellow-green, and his shockingly blue eyes looked exactly as he was described in the books. He and Luna were my favorite characters, really. But I can't be star-struck now. I have to focus.
"All the necessary people are here then," Gail said warily.
I played with my silver necklace that had been hidden away. It was the same as the deathly hallows symbol that Xeno had himself. A smile playing on my lips all the while. I caught the flicker of his eyes and guessed he understood the motion.
"Apologies, there was a sudden infestation of Nargles that needed dealing with," Xeno said, and I observed the relatively perplexed expressions on the other adult's faces.
I could feel the gaze of my father, as if asking to confirm this was the correct man. I nodded my head towards Xeno in greeting. My smile was a rather knowing one. Having the Lovegood's on our side would be wonderful.
"Glad you could make it, Mr. Lovegood," Trevor said and offered his hand out in greeting.
The adults introduced themselves and I winked at Sirius while no one else was paying attention. Opening a chocolate candy and tossing it in my mouth. He smiled a bit, his eyes softening, I noted.
"If I understand it correctly a Tattle Tail can only determine true or false, so unlike a truth potion even a proficient witch or wizard in occlumency can't trick it," I said and turned to look at Gail. "It's a shame it's not used often."
I've certainly never heard about a 'Tattle Tail' in the books. I did enough research to know that it was a valid thing, however, I want to give Sirius a bit of information, however subtle it was. I guessed that the Death eaters in the ministry did something to make them unusable.
"It's a relatively 'new' method. But despite the evidence and research, most people just don't want change." Gail said and stroked the lizard. "Not to mention lizards tend to put people on edge since You Know Who came to power."
I rolled my eyes. "I was hoping the magical community was more developed. Guess I was wrong on that front."
"Ahem," Gail cleared his throat, his cheeks twitching. " we'll be asking you a series of questions. Answer honestly, and without too much delay."
"Got it." Sirius nodded and seemed to be mentally preparing himself.
"This is the Tattle Tail, whatever we say is being monitored remotely by Ministry Wizards, and the firm I work for. Lies are indicated by red, and the truth is blue. The creature does not read minds, it simply reacts to a worldly truth. For example, if I said that I've never seen a murder even if I've had my memory erased the Tattle Tail will react blue because even if I do not remember, the earth will know it to be true."
It was a truly useful creature. I can't understand why so few people use its power for Ministry use.
"Alright, let's start with the most pressing question then… Mr. Black, were you the Secret Keeper for the Potter's?" Trevor was the one who would be asking most of these questions.
"No, it was Peter who was the Secret Keeper. I had no idea he was the traitor!" Sirius said it with an angry growl.
The lizard glowed a bright blue, the faces of the wizards surrounding the cell started to lose color. Well, other than Remus, whose face was one of clear bewilderment and understanding. As if a heavy fog had been lifted and he could see the world clearly. Remus looked to me sharply, and I did my best to ignore his piercing gaze. Okay, I get it, you finally realized I was telling the truth! Calm down!
"The night Lily and James Potter died you chased after Peter, what was your goal?" Gail asked now with full faith that this was definitely not a waste of everyone's time.
"I wanted to catch that damned rat and make him pay for his betrayal!" Sirius looked ready to get up to finish the job. "He willingly told Voldemort their location, I was furious beyond reason!"
Blue again I turned to observe that two Dementors were now floating in the doorway. I believed Seth was the one on the left. I was curious, but their presence being as cold as it was didn't really register to any adults at the moment. I smiled and waved, and Seth jabbed his thumb in my direction with his head turned to his friend. As if to say See, I wasn't lying there really is a crazy child who likes Dementors! Or something like that. I understood it was probably rude, though.
"Sirius, do you know if Dumbledore was aware that Peter was the secret keeper?" I interjected carefully to word my question so that the lizard would only react with what Sirius knows to be true.
"... No, I don't believe Dumbledore was aware." Sirius' gaze didn't have that fire in them as much, but more so wondering where I was going with this.
However, Remus was sharply aware of my thoughts on this. And watched the lizard with rapt attention.
"Why did you lend your transportation to Hagrid, actually Hargid told Dumbledore you'd given him the bike? I think it's rather strange for a man who changed allegiances to provide safe transport rather than finishing the job and tying up loose ends." I paused a bit to think of a way to word this. "Well, I suppose everyone was too emotional to think logically. Perhaps Dumbledore was stricken with so much grief he couldn't think properly?"
Sirius' expression was mortified as he thought of that possibility. I eyed Remus, whose expression was rather dark upon hearing it. Yes, it does sound very fishy when I put it like that, doesn't it? In actuality, I was hoping I was wrong and that Dumbledore is actually a good guy.
"What spell did you use to kill Peter?" Trevor asked once I'd finished my monolog, winking at me with a smile.
"I didn't kill him!" again the Tattle Tail glowed blue.
However, Sirius was deep in worry and fear. I glanced back towards Seth and his friend. Realizing the sight of Dementors might be traumatic for him for a long time.
"You believe that Dumbledore wanted Sirius out of the way in order for the blood protection to keep Harry safe. And to keep Harry from getting a 'large' head." Seth could read me clearly and I nodded.
"I am not entirely sure, it's really just a theory. But Dumbledore is too smart to not see the discrepancies in Sirius' actions. It doesn't make sense for him to be so gung-ho on putting Sirius away without trial. Sirius would be in the way if he was proven innocent. But I just want to clear his name at the moment."
"You still intend to ask questions once the interrogation is over?" The inner voice was different, a bit grainier with a tinge of iciness.
"My curiosity knows no bounds, though I'll ask your name first." I turned to face the two Reaper-like beings as the adults behind me carried on the conversation.
"Ereka," Their voice a tad bit kinder than a moment ago.
"I'm Ava, and I'll be honest it's hard to decide the first question." I heard a sharp inhale behind me and then I remembered that Sirius was a real person with very real fear.
"Popa I'm going to be in the hall talking with Seth and his friend Ereka. I don't think Sirius will be comfortable with them insight." I chuckled nervously this was probably a stretch for him to allow.
"... Seth hurt her and I will find a way to end you." Trever was very convincingly terrifying while saying that.
Ah, Dad is so cool! I beamed happily. I can't help it. This man is so good to me it makes my heart full of joy. It's really nice having him be so overprotective! I don't think I'll get tired of it at all.
"Noted…" Seth clearly didn't regard him as a threat but was kind enough to answer.
It was probably a strange sight to see our little trio exit into the hall. I stayed in front of the doorway to give the adults some kind of peace of mind. Aren't I generous enough? It was much chillier in the hall, but it was fine enough. I still felt strangely comfortable with these two.
"So first question. Do you guys particularly care if a person is innocent or not?" I started with this since it was the most prominent question on my mind.
"It depends on the Dementor. Some of us are drawn towards dark minds, others prefer the innocent." Seth replied. "We both take being a guard seriously and feed on the particularly dark-minded. Most of the Dementors here are of the same mind, however, there are those who have drifted and yearn to taste innocence again."
Well, humans are their food so that makes sense. Eating the same food all the time must be boring after all. But I suppose I should ask the more important questions first.
"You can read my mind, so you know my concern for the Dementors who join Voldemort. I want to avoid so many deaths, and I can also understand if a lot of you are fed up with the Ministry." I paused for a moment. "It'd be nice if there was a better balance that could be maintained."
I wonder what kind of expression they might have if their faces weren't hidden. They didn't say anything to me, instead, I guessed they were talking with one another. I glanced to see the adults occasionally check I was still visible. Their conversation floated easily to me and the Dementor duo, but I didn't pay much mind. It was going smoothly, after all.
"The humans treat us as blights." Ereka voiced her opinion, which was understandably bitter. "We've gotten used to it, however, it is still grating. Most of us are proud to serve rightful justice to such vile examples of humans. But in the case of Sirius, we didn't think much of it when our less proud brethren took a liking to him."
Yea after a few eons of humans treating them like garbage, I can't blame them for losing interest in who comes through their gates.
"I see… Are you guys organized?"
"A select few of us have formed an order, so to speak. But our collective leader is Revin, the humans communicate with him the most." Seth informed, and I filed that name away.
"Can you tell who enters or leaves? Or is it a misconception of whether you care or not?" It was a fair question.
"I suppose somewhere along the years leading up to what you're referring to, there must have been something to anger us all to act in the way you know." I giggled at the indirect 'yes we can tell' it was a beautifully done deflection.
"I don't know if I'll be of much use, but perhaps a better compromise could be made. I don't want innocent people to suffer at all if it can be helped. Wait, big question, can you recover people's lost memories?" I think I just had a eureka moment.
What if Dementors can help with amnesia? They recovered a fragment of Harry's memory of Lily being killed. Perhaps… Maybe the Longbottom's... My eyes lit up at the possibility.
"Is that even possible!?" I was excited enough to speak out loud, but my excitement seems to be infectious since Seth and Ereka shifted about looking between each other.
"We can recover memories, our abilities let us tap into the mind to find what makes them tick after all," Seth answered. "Lost memories have been known to reappear. There was even a case of a mind that had been obliviated recovering fragments of their memory."
"Do you have to scare people to make them remember? Is it possible for it to not be terrifying? If that could be lessened, then even the Dementors who like innocent souls would be satiated by helping Amnesia patients from time to time!"
"We typically feed on happy memories, however, we do occasionally indulge in a bad memory. When we feed on bad memories, the effect on people is reversed." Ereka explained.
I paused, realizing we were speaking out loud, and turned to see the adults with wide eyes. I coughed uncomfortably. It seemed their interrogation was over... But if this was really the case, then it was worth continuing...
"People would be scared if you got close though, perhaps a glamor charm would alleviate that? Then not only would Dementors be prison guards, but they could also be psych ward, medical staff. That means Neville has a chance of having his parents back. And if that goes well, a lot of doors could be opened."
"What do memories even taste like?" My mind went from 'oh this is amazing it could help so many people' all the way to 'do memories taste good?' "And does it matter particularly?"
"Hard to explain, but think about something rather tasty and then it becomes more so." Ereka I imagined was amused at my line of thoughts.
"Pizza, no wait candy? Wait sweet tasty or savory tasty?"
"Depends on the person. Memories taste different based on the nature of the individual. I'm partial to the good memories of particularly dark-natured humans." Seth is actually a super cool guy. Like way cool, super-duper epic levels of coolness.
I felt a cold boney hand pat me on the head. It was cool guy Seth, but it seemed like he remembered something and backed away. I tilted my head. Hey, this Dementor is acting cute right now. I might be in love. He's just so epic, tall, dark, and super awesome.
"Dad, I think you have a contender for the coolest person ever!"
"C-cool," Gail tripped over that word and the adults all looked at me like I'd grown five heads all at once.
But I didn't care because right now Seth to me is like a super awesome anti-hero. And he has a super cute personality too! Ereka's shoulders shook, and it was obvious that she was clearly amused.
"Seth, can you keep Sirius safe until his trial?" I wondered, staring at Seth, I noted Ereka moving their head looking between me and Seth with a long finger over where her lips would be.
Clearly, she was amused beyond words at what was happening. It must have been a rather amusing sight for her.
"It's not a problem if he's innocent..." Seth coughed a bit like he was embarrassed. "But cool huh…"
"Alright, we'll be going now!" Trevor grabbed my wrist. "Coolest guy, what's so cool, huh?" Trever kept grumbling as he pulled me away. "Cya on court day Sirius!"
Ereka laughed, watching this unfold before her. I can imagine this scene was very amusing, but I was more focused on other things.
"Cya Sirius, bye Seth, and Ereka it was nice talking to you!" I said while slightly straightening to slow my father down. "Oh right, do Dementors write letters!?"
"... We can write," Seth stated, and I grinned.
"I'll send you lots of questions then!" I was more than happy to follow my father out of the prison after that.
It was kind of funny seeing Trevor so annoyed, and I was rather content with the information I'd learned from this trip. Hopefully, it would be useful for the Longbottom's. Well, even if he wanted to leave now, we had to wait for the others to catch up. Apparently, my father is very fast compared to the wizards...