Disclaimer: HP… Still not mine…
Chapter 29
Arthur kneeled in the bushes just outside the home of Arvel and Deirdre Barnes. The green haze of the Dark Mark swirled lazily in the early morning mist. It had begun to sprinkle, and the soothing sound of drops pattering against the leaves as Arthur held his breath, ears tuned to listen for *any* sounds at all, seemed inappropriately peaceful. The faintest hint of grey in the distance indicated that sunrise would be in a couple of hours.
"Stop it," Remus Lupin's voice rumbled from behind Arthur. The faint scratching of quill against parchment ceased in the darkness. Rita Skeeter had been scribbling away for nearly five minutes now as they waited outside the home on the outskirts of Greenocke, searching for any movement before proceeding inside.
"What? You wanted a reporter here. You've got one," Rita Skeeter whispered irritably.
"Words are meaningless. Refutable. Take pictures. You can write the story later. Right now we need the images of proof burned indelibly in everyone's mind that Voldemort has indeed returned. If your story doesn't get published, the pictures can surface some other way," Remus said quietly. Arthur listened as the parchment was rolled up and the rustle of fabric indicated that Skeeter had indeed listened. A faint shutter click gave a tell tale sign that she had a camera with her. Arthur felt grim satisfaction at the realization that the first proof was finally being collected of Death Eater attacks.
"Shall we?" Bill asked from the darkness to Arthur's left. His voice was calm and efficient.
"I'll circle around back, you two flank Arthur. Ms. Skeeter, keep close but don't get in anyone's way," Remus instructed. Arthur raised an eyebrow silently. For a professor, Remus appeared remarkably efficient at field work. Arthur grunted his agreement, wand held tight, as he stood and began to quietly proceed towards the house.
The scent of rain hung in the air, fresh and inviting. As Arthur crept up the stoop to the front door, he repressed a sense of pride as his two eldest sons stepped closer to him in silent communication, closing rank. It appeared they had every intention of protecting him. Arthur took a deep breath and approached the door. It opened of its own accord, causing all three men to spring aside, wands raised and spells ready. Skeeter remained where she was standing just a few feet from the front porch, wide eyed with the camera held in her hand, temporarily forgotten in her stunned shock. Remus Lupin stood at the door, an eyebrow raised appraisingly.
"No one's here," Remus said in a normal voice. It was still slightly hushed, but somehow that seemed appropriate. "We've got to hurry. I don't know how long it will be until the Ministry gets here."
Bill cursed under his breath as he stood up, brushing the leaves off his clothes. Charlie sighed in relief. "He's fast," he commented, and Bill grunted in response. As they walked to the front door, where light shone faintly within, Arthur watched as Charlie eyed Remus appraisingly.
Arthur held his breath as the acrid scent of vomit filled his nostrils. He paused and closed his eyes for a moment, steadying himself. Bill rested a hand on Arthur's shoulder in silent comfort. Arthur nodded, reached over his shoulder and patted his son's hand reassuringly before proceeding.
The home was in a shambles. Chairs were overturned, mirrors broken, doors were blasted off their hinges. Dark magic hung thickly in the air, its foul energy nearly tactile. It coated the room like a pollutant, like the residue of dirty smoke against the fibers of the chair cushion, the couch, their robes. It clouded the windows and obscured the room, dimmed lights and muted voices. Arthur had to repress the urge to gag as he saw a masculine hand, the body it was attached to hidden behind an overturned couch. The fingers were bloody, the nails torn and broken, and as Arthur stepped closer, he saw that it was indeed Arvel's hand. His face was frozen in a rictor of pain, his eyes wide and pleading. There was no recognition there, only bewildered suffering.
Arthur closed his eyes for a moment. Arvel had been a kind man, simple and honest. He seemed to have boundless energy for all the little tasks Deirdre set out for him. What were those called? Honey-Dos. 'Honey, do this, honey do that', Arthur thought distractedly, and had to fight the wave of rage and helplessness he felt as he looked at Arvel, at the indignity and cruelty the man had had to face in his last moments.
He'd been passionate about gardening. He wore the same three outfits rain or shine. He liked to paint, but refused to call it art. Dabbling. He liked to say he was a dabbler. I swear he said it simply because he liked how the word itself sounded. He loved Deirdre enough to be willing to give up the only life he'd ever known just to be with her. She wouldn't let him, of course, but Arthur had learned a lot from the courage of their relationship nonetheless.
The only reason Voldemort deemed Arvel worthy to deserve this death was because he was a Muggle. Deirdre had probably never even spoken of Voldemort. Arvel died not even understanding *why*, or what his attackers wanted. The faint sound of a shutter clicking indicated that Rita Skeeter had recovered from her shock.
"That's bloody awful," Charlie said softly. Arthur didn't bother to correct him.
"What should we do?" Bill asked Remus, looking around the room. "Should we gather some artifacts? Other than the pictures… what we really need is to drag a bunch of officials out of bed to see this for themselves," he said, the disgust and anger in his voice a sentiment he could see in each of their faces.
"It's ironic to think that *she* can do the most here," Charlie said to Bill, nodding his head at Rita. She appeared to ignore them both.
More than anything, Arthur wanted to place a blanket over Arvel, or at least try to close his eyes. He hated leaving the man in the undignified position they'd found him in. He deserved better than that. Arthur proceeded further into the room and saw Deirdre's crumpled form for the first time.
He knew it had to be her, although he hadn't seen her in years. Her hair was still that beautiful lustrous brown, although now it was also flecked with streaks of white. It spilled around her much like it had when she'd take him and his brothers swimming in the lake out back in the summertime. She'd filled out, fleshy in that 'I'm committed and he loves me as I am' sort of way. Arthur had gotten over his crush years ago, but the tender fondness obviously still remained. The constriction in his throat increased as he approached the woman who for several years had babysat him and his five brothers as a child.
Deirdre had been the one to reassure him when he'd first arrived at Hogwarts. He'd been terrified, convinced for some reason that he wouldn't be Gryffindor like the rest of his family. He was, of course. After he'd been sorted, Deirdre waved for him to sit next to her. She'd made him feel welcome. It was the first time he'd ever been separated from his family, and as the eldest, he'd left his brothers behind. Hogwarts wasn't home, but with her help it was close enough. She'd walked him to class the first couple of days until he'd gotten oriented with the staircases, and each Christmas she left him peanut brittles underneath the tree, a favorite Muggle treat he'd learned to love early on.
He did the same for his brothers, welcomed them and waved cheerily as each of them had been sorted. All Gryffindors of course. He'd walked them to class until they made friends of their own. He warned them about the teachers to watch out for, and what classes were the most fun.
Deirdre drifted out of his life, but the thoughtful way she'd treated him never left his mind. When the scandal broke of her falling in love with a Muggle, and Arthur heard her family was threatening to disown her, he had some of her girlfriends leave a tin of peanut brittle on her bed with the promise that his own family had extended: Whatever happens, you always have a place with us.
She'd finished Hogwarts and immediately married Arvel afterwards. As Arthur sat next to Molly, whom he'd been dating for nearly a year by then, and he saw the love in Arvel's eyes as he gazed at Deirdre coming down the isle… Arthur realized he felt the same. About Molly. He proposed six months later.
Arthur slowly crossed the floor and stepped around her until he could see her face. He'd never seen anything like it. Her eyes were wide, her pupils rolled nearly inside her head. Her mouth was open in a frozen scream, saliva still stuck to either side of her face, and Arthur could see that it was her that had been sick. Arthur knew as he looked down on Deirdre's agonized expression that she'd been driven mad before she'd died. They'd inflicted the Cruciatus Curse until she'd gone insane, and then they'd killed her.
"This is what Harry dreams," Remus said as he came to stand beside Arthur. "And I thought *we* were trying to protect *him*," he said cryptically.
"Even in Azkaban he can't escape this," Bill said as he looked around him, shaking his head. Arthur got the sense that Bill was only now beginning to internalize what Harry had been experiencing. It's always different when you *see* it, isn't it? That's what they're afraid of, Arthur thought of Fudge's frantic cover-up, and a deep fury burned within him for the devastation of two precious lives. The fact that one was Muggle made it no less magical in his mind.
"You knew them?" Remus asked gently. Arthur nodded. If only I could reposition her. I know she'd be so much more comfortable, Arthur thought distractedly, and had to physically shake himself out of *that* kind of thinking. He'd known it would be much harder because he was friends with them. He'd tried to prepare himself. Molly had too. But some things you just can't prepare for, can you? Some things you shouldn't have to.
"How about trace residue on artifacts that could only come clearly from here? This place is thick with Dark Magic. How could they dispute that?" Charlie asked the room in general.
"We can't prove it wasn't stolen and about to be pawned in Knockturn Alley before we found the items. They could even say *we* stole the objects and infused them with Dark Magic to try to give credence to Dumbledore's warnings," Bill answered. Arthur raised his eyes from Deirdre to see both sons appraising him quietly. Remus still stood at his side, his hazel eyes on Skeeter as well. Skeeter was busily clicking away as she slowly took pictures of the room, as if she was intending to piece it together into a panoramic photo.
"What am I thinking? Integritas," she said abruptly, and slapped her forehead with her hand, then turned to head outside.
"Where are you going?" Charlie asked her.
"I've used a spell to protect the integrity of the photos. It insures that no one's tampered with them. I want more pictures of the Dark Mark," she said, her voice hard.
"Then by all means continue. I'll go with her," Charlie called to the men in the room.
"At the first sign the Ministry is moving in we *must* leave. They can have *no* idea we've been here," Remus said, looking at Charlie intently.
"I'll go with them as well, and keep watch," Bill volunteered. Remus nodded to both men and watched as the procession filed outside.
"Are you okay?" Remus asked Arthur gently. Arthur shook his head.
"Some things just shouldn't happen. *This* shouldn't happen. They didn't do anything!," Arthur said, gesturing sharply at the room. "Harry *shouldn't* be in Azkaban. Sometimes I feel like there's just so few good people left… and the number continues to dwindle. There are entirely too many Lucius Malfoys and not nearly enough Dumbledores. Too many predators and not enough protectors. The people I work with… they're good people, Remus. All of the Ministry of Magic isn't like this. But all it takes is a little bit of power and fear, and look what can happen? Look what does happen when they're too afraid to speak up," Arthur asked, his voice quiet, subdued, yet still thick with frustration and grief.
"We're close, Arthur. He won't last much longer, and the next Minister we get won't… *we can't let him* ignore this, put his head in the sand. Fudge is as guilty of murder as Voldemort. Precautions could have been taken; alarm charms could have been set; portkeys placed strategically," Remus said, jerking his head unconsciously to the places Arthur suspected Remus would have placed them. "Too many families don't know what's happened to their children, their parents, and their siblings. It wasn't good enough for them," Remus said, gesturing to Deirdre and Arvel, "but we're at least trying to stop it from happening again." Arthur sighed.
"I know, of course you're right. It's just that…" Arthur said and allowed his voice to drift off.
"It doesn't feel like enough. I know. Trust me I know," Remus said, his eyes thick with emotion.
And then there's Harry, Arthur thought, Harry's quiet resolve as Molly tried to protect him burned into his mind. He'd only had a chance to look at Harry a couple of times when they'd raided the Burrow. Arthur spent most of his time trying to talk them out of it, to disarm them to more peaceful options. Truly he should have known better. He *did* know better. He knew what Aurors were like; decent blokes, but more prone to wands than words. But he still had to try.
The few times he'd seen Harry, his green eyes unfathomable as he obviously watched a scene played out he'd been waiting for, dreading... That's it, Arthur thought, stirring his mind away from Deirdre's horrific last moments. There's things to do. Quit wallowing. Harry's alive out there, and still trying to save lives, Merlin help him. There's much to be done. Footsteps pattered up the front stoop. Remus already had his wand out and pointed at him as Charlie poked his head in the door. He blinked momentarily at Remus, then looked at Arthur.
"They're coming," Charlie said quietly.
"Front or back?" Remus asked.
"Back," Charlie replied and nodded his head. "Dad, we've got to go," he said sympathetically. Arthur took one last look at the fallen couple and stepped towards the door. Remus moved quickly behind him as they swept outdoors and into the surrounding countryside. The grey sky was beginning to blush faintly with the first rays of sunrise. The Dark Mark still hung, it's bright green starkly out of place in the misty morning. Arthur knew when he was approaching Bill and Rita Skeeter by the shutter click.
"Can't you silence that bloody camera? Do you *want* them to know we're here?" Charlie whispered harshly. A muttered word did just that. Arthur soon found himself kneeling between Rita Skeeter and Bill. Charlie was whispering to Remus, evidently planning how long it would be safe to remain to take pictures.
"Alright, dad?" Bill asked softly. Arthur nodded. Words seem so… superficial lately. They never convey enough. The words he used to tell his sons how much he loved them never carried what he wanted to say. How proud he was of them. How awed that something Molly and he had created had grown into such amazing, beautiful children, and how he never felt worthy enough to have been so lucky.
"Thanks, Bill," Arthur said, and Bill frowned at the emotion in Arthur's voice.
"It's time," Remus said, indicating the Ministry officials that now appeared to be swarming the home in full force. Arthur could see the gleam in Skeeter's eyes as she continued to take picture after picture.
He felt the scroll in his robe pocket and *knew* now was the time, but still found himself reluctant to turn it over. He held a precious truth, a life, in his hands, and to entrust it with… that shallow, pretentious, preening, lazy gossip columnist seemed to denigrate what Harry had had to endure. It was the truth of Percy's folly and ignorance… She just simply wasn't *worthy* of it.
Remus herded her after the rest of them as they proceeded into a clearing in the surrounding woods. The rain had softened the ground enough that they traveled silently, cloaked by the steady patter of drizzle against the tree tops. Only the occasional muttered curse as Skeeter stepped into yet another puddle or muddy patch in the tiny game trail gave away their presence at all. When at last Remus and Bill seemed comfortable for them to Apparate, Arthur turned to Skeeter and reluctantly pulled out the scroll of Harry's true testimony under Veritaserum.
"What do you intend to do with what you've gotten tonight?" Arthur asked her. Bill and Charlie automatically took to guarding opposite sides of the clearing as Remus approached Arthur and Skeeter.
"It's the story of the century. Print it of course," Skeeter replied.
"Ms. Skeeter," Remus said and glanced at the scroll in Arthur's hands. He seemed to understand Arthur's reluctance to part with it. "You understand, if the Ministry gets wind of this beforehand, they could very well force your paper to not print it," he said. Skeeter snorted.
"Please, do you think I'm stupid? I may not be moral, but I'm not *dim* either," she replied, and looked truly aggrieved to think they both thought so.
"So what will you do if the Ministry *does* get wind of this story?" Remus asked.
"The secret to every explosive exposé ever printed is simple… Wait until the absolutely *last* minute to get it to your editor, stay with them until it's proofed, and have it in print before anyone knows what's hit 'em," she said, her voice thick with relish.
"Can you trust your editor?" Remus pursued. She nodded vigorously.
"Not a whit. But he's a greedy bastard, so no matter *how much* anyone offered to pay him to tip them off to troubling stories, he'll print this. He's hungry for a promotion," she said with what Arthur could only describe as a *fond* smile on her face. Arthur handed her the scroll abruptly, pressing it into her hands and pulling his own away before his instincts overcame reason and he grabbed it back. "What's this?" she asked and raised an eyebrow appraisingly as she detected some of the authenticity charms place on it.
"Proof of Voldemort's return, and Fudge's direct participation in a cover-up to prevent that knowledge from becoming public," Arthur said.
"Testimony, then? I recognize these seals. Someone under Veritaserum. Who?" Skeeter asked curiously. Information clearly appeared to be her narcotic of choice. She almost seemed to be slightly salivating.
"Harry Potter," Remus said. Her eyes flicked back and forth between the two men for a moment. "Congratulations, Ms. Skeeter. You discredited him enough in the public's eye to make him a target for the Minister of Magic himself," he said with steely menace. Arthur felt the hairs rise on the nape of his neck as he glanced at the expressionless face of the former Defense Against Dark Arts professor.
"Is he… he's just, what? Fifteen? Did he survive… intact?" she asked, and Arthur frowned at the strange tone in her voice. He didn't quite know what to make of it.
"They gave an adult dose," Arthur said, his own voice sounded odd as well. "Fudge refused to believe him, so they gave him the full amount," he stated.
"*Did he survive it?*" she asked again. Arthur nodded. "Well…" she said, clearly about to dismiss the incident.
"But Fudge still refused to accept it. Harry Potter is currently in Azkaban awaiting trial," Arthur said coldly. She frowned, and Arthur saw a variety of emotions flicker across her face before settling on a scowl.
"What? Do you think that's *my* fault? Do you think *that* is my fault?" she demanded, nearly snarling as she pointed back towards the Dark Mark, her thick bracelets clanking against each other loudly in her violent gestures. "What do you want from me, Arthur Weasley, because I'm not sure I like where this is going," she asked aggressively. Evidently her personal motto was any good defense was made up of a strong offense.
Arthur stepped forward, his face close to hers. "I'm not sure *what* I expected, Ms. Skeeter. Remorse? Guilt? You slandered a child and made him a target. You isolated him from his friends and exploited his pain. I find you an obscenity, Ms. Skeeter, and it appalls me to entrust *that*," he said, pointing to the scroll, "into your care. However, circumstances warrant bizarre alliances, but know this… I've put Harry Potter's life into your hands. If somehow this story never gets published or is not given the credit it deserves… Voldemort is not the only one who can make people disappear," Arthur said in a perfectly calm voice. Remus, Charlie, and Bill all stared at him, stunned. He ignored them. Rita Skeeter looked deeply into his eyes, and Arthur wasn't sure what she saw there, but it was enough for him to feel she understood the full weight of his words.
"Threats, Arthur Weasley, don't become you. Stick to your Muggle coddling. I'll print the story not because you want me too, but because it's *news*," she said and stepped back, scroll clutched close to her chest. She looked at the men watching her, her lips pursed. Arthur would have felt his promise fell on deaf ears had he not noticed how the scroll trembled in her hands just seconds before she Apparated.
"Blimey, dad. That was… new," Charlie said, frowning as he said it. Remus put a hand on Arthur's shoulder and squeezed, before removing it.
"It's time to leave, gentlemen," Remus said. Arthur nodded.
"You'll return to help Sirius now?" he asked. Remus nodded.
"I'll inform the Headmaster of the latest developments, then track him down and join him, yes," Remus replied.
"Good hunting," Arthur said. Remus' smile was almost predatory, and his expression promised a great many things. None of them pleasant for Pettigrew.
"Good hunting," Charlie said and shook Remus' hand warmly.
"Good hunting," Bill said, and as he shook his hand he also gently smacked Remus on the shoulder.
"Keep your family safe," Remus said.
"And yours as well," Arthur replied. Remus nodded in understanding, then Apparated.
"Come on, dad. Let's get you home. You're soaked. If you get a chill, mum's going to kill us," Charlie said and wrapped his arm around his father's shoulder affectionately. Arthur closed his eyes and smiled. Molly. It was time to go home.
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Ron tossed the parchment up and over his head in exasperation. It fluttered to the ground as all those sitting at the table watched him. "I'm getting thoroughly cheesed off by all the strange little cost idiosyncrasies I keep finding," he said and straightened his legs, leaning back and forcing his dining room chair onto only two legs. It whimpered pathetically.
"Idiosyncrasies?" Hermione asked.
"And here I thought all that time you've spent with Hermione would turn you into a cabbage," Fred said admiringly. "Bravo, Ms. Granger," he said and stood up, bowing slightly towards her, mocking Ron's use of bigger words. Ron frowned darkly at Fred.
"What are you talking about, Ron?" Ginny asked, her chin resting awkwardly on the palm of one hand while the other continued to sort through the pile of parchments and scrolls. Her eyes looked glazed with fatigue.
"This," Ron said, the chair thumping heavily back on the ground as he tossed her the parchment he was talking about. She frowned for a moment while she scanned it, then glared at Hermione who had her hand held out, anxious to look at it. She even began to snap her fingers demandingly.
"Let me see," Hermione implored. Ginny narrowed her eyes for a moment, then handed Hermione the parchment. She snatched it quickly from Ginny and scanned it top to bottom.
"Do you know what I'm talking about?" Ron asked. Hermione looked up distractedly.
"I didn't see anything weird," Ginny observed. Fred and George by now were watching with keen interest. Percy had come back into the dining room from the kitchen, a teapot in his hands and another plate of crumpets from their mother.
"What's this?" Percy asked as he set the pot in the center of the table and scooted a place for the plate, his eyes landing on the parchment behind Ron's chair. "Do *try* to keep a semblance of order, Ron. I'm going to have to piece all this back together after you're done," he said in weary irritation. Even though it seemed Percy was scolding more out of habit than anything else, it still made Ron's hackles rise.
"Sorry for any *hardship* this has caused you, Percy. We wouldn't want to *inconvenience* you in any way… Say… saving someone's life? Perhaps?" Ron asked, his tone sharp, baiting. Just try it, he thought, even as he recognized that, although he was beyond furious with Percy, he was also looking to take out some of his frustration and anguish on him as well.
"Ron, I'm as up for *Percy bashing* as the next bloke, but do you mind? What are you and Hermione on about?" Fred asked, annoyed. Percy turned flat eyes on Ron.
"I'm talking about *this*," Ron said and grabbed the parchment out of Hermione's hands. She was already handing it over when he yanked it from her, and she shot him an agitated glance.
"No more tea for Ron," she announced. "I'm cutting you off," Hermione said, then watched keenly as Ron stood and handed the document to Percy, frowning as he scanned it. "I noticed it too, Ron, but I didn't think it was something we could use. It could be anything research," she commented.
"Would someone just tell us *what*?" George said wearily. Ron looked up inquiringly as well.
"What doesn't look right?" Percy asked curiously.
"This Dracontine Division," Ron said, tapping the parchment in Percy's hands as he stood next to him. "There are monthly charges, and then there are *these*," he pointed to a number that made Percy's eyebrows raise.
"I see your point," Percy said after a moment, letting out a little breath.
"Hello," Bill said as he stepped out of the fireplace and into the living room. Arthur and Charlie quickly followed.
"Dad!" Ron said and smiled hugely.
He'd been terrified at the thought of his father out with Death Eaters and rogue Ministry of Magic people. Intellectually, he *knew* his father was a capable man, but he certainly didn't reinforce the appearance of maturity and assured competence when Ron saw how he acted around anything to do with Muggle technology. It made Ron feel oddly protective of him.
Of course, he was too manly to hug him, though. At least he was reassured that Fred and George seemed to be looking equally relieved and nonchalant at the same time as well. It therefore took Ron by surprise when Percy quickly crossed the room, parchment still in hand, and hugged his father, then reached out to pat both of his brothers on the back in relief. Bill and Charlie both looked equally stunned. Percy was *not* the affectionate type. While their expressions weren't necessarily open and welcoming, they weren't hostile anymore either.
"How did it go?" Ron asked. Please let it be good news. For *once* let it be good news.
"Rita Skeeter has *ample* evidence. I'm hoping we'll see it in print as early as today," Arthur Weasley said and hugged Percy back, then smiled gently as he reached out and pulled both Charlie and Bill to him as well. "You did good, boys," he said.
Charlie began to blush, and Bill was trying to look dignified while still hugging his dad back. Give it up, Bill, Ron thought with a smile. It was nice to see, though. Molly Weasley was the physically affectionate one, and although Arthur was a kind and loving man, it was more often expressed in words and thoughtful gestures than hugs. He often said that 'it means a great deal more to a person to be *shown* they're loved rather than told'.
"Thank Merlin," Molly Weasley said from the kitchen doorway and walked briskly across the room, enveloping Ron's dad in a tight hug. They stayed that way for quite a while.
"Should we leave?" Hermione whispered to Ron. He shrugged and looked at Ginny. She frowned as she watched her parents.
"I don't think so," Ginny said, but her wide eyes indicated she was considering it. Arthur Weasley sighed deeply, his breath blowing whisps of Molly Weasley's loose hair from her bun up and out before he rubbed her back, a reassuring gesture. She reluctantly let go and looked at him closely, holding his hand in hers.
"Are you okay?" she asked him gently. Ron felt like he and his siblings were invisible, and as if he were intruding in a very private moment of his parents.
"Perhaps we should," Ron said quietly and began sidling for the kitchen.
"I am now," Arthur Weasley said and squeezed her hands. "Don't leave," he said to Ron. "It's okay. You don't have to leave. How are things here? Have you found anything suspicious?" he asked them all, and although his tone was hopeful, his expression was already resigned.
"Actually…" Ron said and Percy collected himself, looking down at the parchment still in his hands. Arthur Weasley's face immediately began to brighten, his eyes lighting up with interest.
"Yes?" he asked.
"I think they have, but I don't know what it is yet. Maybe you can help, Charlie," Percy said and handed the document to his brother. Charlie looked over it for a few seconds and frowned.
"What am I supposed to be seeing?" Charlie asked warily.
"Ron spotted some odd charges billed to the Dracontine Division. They're normally paid once a month. I know what those are. But here are some anomalous charges for nearly six times that amount. I know this is a branch of the Dragon Research and Restraint Bureau because Newt Scamander signed off on the expenses, but… I'm not sure there are any new projects authorized, now that I think about it," Percy said, shaking his head. "Research divisions generally get more leeway financially anyway, so it would never have set off any alarms with me. Not with all the proper signatures."
"The Dracontine Division is pretty narrow in focus, Percy. They only research one aspect of the dragon. Dragon anatomy, to be specific," Charlie said. They all looked at him expectantly. "The Pyretostium Spiraero gland," he said and smiled, as if he'd explained it all. They all blinked once, then again.
"In layman's terms, Charlie. I never dreamed there'd be a day when you spoke words I didn't understand," Bill joked wryly. Charlie mock punched him.
"It's the gland dragons use to breathe fire," Charlie explained. Hermione's quick intake of breath mirrored Ron's own. They looked at each other anxiously, and Ron felt his heart begun to thud loudly in his chest.
"What?" Arthur Weasley said, frowning at Ron.
"How hot is dragon fire, Charlie?" Ron asked and realized his palms were beginning to sweat.
"Bloody hot," Charlie replied, frowning, as he distractedly began to itch a burn scar on his forearm.
"Hot enough to cremate human bodies?" Hermione whispered, her eyes wide.
"Over 1000 degrees Celsius, which should be plenty," Charlie replied. The room was silent as each they all looked at each other, stunned. The room was utterly still.
"That's it," Arthur said, breaking the silence and startling Hermione as he stared at Ron. He looked up at Percy, a quiet energy replacing the fatigue in his eyes. "Are you authorized to make inspections?" he asked briskly. Percy nodded, his face chalky white. He looked vaguely to Ron like he might be going into shock. "We need a sample of any ash in that facility. Have you ever been there, Charlie? Do you know the layout?" he asked. Charlie shook his head.
"I haven't, but I know of a bloke who has. I can have him draw a map easily enough. Will that do?" he asked Percy. Percy nodded, and Charlie turned, grabbing a handful of Floo powder and striding once more through the fireplace.
"Your Professor Snape should be able to determine what the components of the ash are made of, and we'll have an answer," Arthur said and let out a deep breath. "Merlin, let our luck finally be changing," he prayed aloud. Molly Weasley hugged him once more, then rounded on Ron, a proud smile on her face.
"Very clever, Ronald. You've always been such a clever boy," she said proudly and engulfed him in a hug. Hermione was grinning foolishly, and Ron couldn't help the burbling laugh of relief that escaped him as his mother crushed the air out of his lungs. This *has* to be right. He knew it. Bastards, he thought. Hang on, Harry. We're almost there. Let us be in time, Ron begged whatever deities that may be listening. Let him survive this.
TBC…
Cierra, Rissa (hope the pacing still works), Nexus, WeasleyTwinsLover1112 (sorry for the delay), vmr, evil spapple pie (I can't tell you that! g I agree), PixyChick (thanks!), J. Lynn (Glad you liked it! Snape next chapter, honest!), Sakura Le (nope, haven't answered that. You'll see! Thanks!), Heather, Gracie (thank you very much! Glad that worked!), Laterose (hehehe. giggles at the review Mission accomplished), psychochick (shhhhh! giggles at your plea I am the queen of Harry torture!!! Bwah hah hah hah!), Lynx, Tempest Princess, Lisette G, kapies, di, LittleEar BigEar's sis, stormyfire, ShelaghC (Sirius next chapter!), Fleur, Kaydee (missed your reviews, but totally understand. Welcome back!): So…. The general consensus is that everyone approves of Harry's Animagus form. Yippee! I knew I could win you over to my side. Really. So, the Burning Day adds interesting angles, doesn't it? Lots more Snape and Harry (and Sirius) next chapter. Thanks for the kind reviews. I'm still trying to keep to the once a week timeline, but as I'm sure you've noted, I am slipping. I'm working on it, but hey… at least I'm trying! Just lots of stuff to squeeze into these chapters lately. g I'll get them out as fast as I can.
Michelle: Now how can someone tire of Harry torture? I mean, truly! g It certainly gives me a bit of flexibility, doesn't it? 8-) Nope, reviews are *never* long-winded. G
PurePsychicEspeon: lol Shitake! I love it! More Snape next time, same Bat time, same Bat channel!
Tanya: Yes, Snape makes an excellent impartial witness, doesn't he? Yep, it does to me. That's a question a lot of people have asked. I don't think so. Perhaps others. We'll have to see, though… 8-) Ah, the bond. Lots to learn about that next chapter, honest! Thanks!!! G
Sherylyn: Hope this last chapter didn't disappoint! I know. I totally missed that whole *beetle* reference when I was reading JKR, but it clicked afterwards. I'm evil. I know. I just happen to hate Skeeter, mostly, I think, because there was no way Harry could defend himself from her. Glad for any reviews I can get. Homework seems to be everyone's general misery lately. Except me, of course.
Anoni: G Yes, that's how I see much of his life. He's still so innocent, without the harsh barriers most people in circumstances such as his would develop. He's remained shockingly kind, despite all the cruelty he's endured. If I don't have a chance to address that one later, I'll do it now. Once the bond was set, their relationship could go any way it pleased, but the magic surrounding it would still shield it from the Dementors. I totally agree with you about Dumbledore. I feel the same way. He's *dang* lucky Harry's as good as he is. hehehehehe
Colleen: grins so much author's cheeks hurt Thanks! Yes, I'm rather pleased with my little twist myself! kicks toe at rock bashfully Hmmm. Good theories. If all goes well, they should be somewhat answered next chapter! 8-) Cheers!
Sakura Blossom: I'm sorry. Remus only this chapter. Some Sirius next chapter, honest! Glad you liked my Animagus choice. I've won you all over!!!! Bwah hah hah hah… (I think I'm flashing back to my comic reading days here. Bear with me)
Moonlight Yellow: G We'll have to see about that, won't we? I think he's starting to begin to wrap his mind around the concept of how someone *can* go on after experiencing something like that. He's scarred, and abused, but you know what? In a disturbing way, that awful childhood *has* prepared him for taking what little happiness life gives him and eeeking it for all it's worth. Granted, you and I both know it's not enough, and it's obscene that he has to endure this, but if anyone can survive, Harry can, simply because look what's he's already endured up until now. I keep doing it too. It's my mantra: Poor Harry. The epitome of tragedy. Hopefully not a Greek tragedy. Or a Shakespearean one. Nope, I don't think he knows that yet. That one will have to come in time. Maybe Sirius is the one to teach him, as soon as he learns himself. Not yet. Well, I think it's funny you even *have* someone who looks like a Garden Gnome in your class.
Gypsy Romance: grins evilly Oh, I like that. That works for me! Hehehe… Why thank you very much! Oddly enough, I too kept giggling as I wrote that chapter. It was definitely a lighter one to write… that's kind of sick and wrong, isn't it? Oh well, hehehehe…. Nope, not going there! g I like that analogy! Yeah, I wanted to throw in something utterly original and new for his Animagus…. But I kept coming back. The more research I did, the more the obvious choice was the *right* choice. Thank you *very* much! See, *I* don't think so either. Although Harry definitely has an accelerated timeline as far as to how long he can last there. Oh, yes, I have *quite* a few things in mind left for that. Thank you! giggles happily at your lovely analogy I hope when the tsunami hits, you won't be disappointed! Thanks for the lovely review!
Catie: Yes, I do. lol Thank you very much. I definitely didn't want to come off cliché as far as the Dursleys were concerned. I've kind of pursued this story more internally than most do… It's not as much about the magic, although *yes* that plays an enormous part. It's about an unloved orphan with awful caretakers who was meant for something special, but has *so* much to overcome before he can get there. I'll admit something here that I've really never expressed before. Most people are angry with Dumbledore for leaving Harry with the Dursleys because of the life he lived there. *I* am *just* as angry that, as Harry is destined to be the saviour of the wizarding world, couldn't Dumbledore have had a little more faith in Harry? That if he'd grown up in the wizarding world, he'd still be special? Does that even make sense? It's just that they *knew* the Dursleys were awful. Was the anonymity *really* so essential? Because there are *lots* of other places, and even people who he could have lived with who could have given that kind of anonymity as well. Okay, I'll step off my little soapbox now. blinks at all the glazed looks author is getting ahem Ah, my Pettigrew. rubs palsm together evilly I'm rather proud of him. In fact, I have plans for him… giggles at the 'le sigh' reference Nope, Dumbledore's as human as the next guy, just a lot more powerful. Oh, I really liked that observation. I rather feel the same about this fic. There is a ton of love in it, and tenderness and affection. I see the love that Harry so desperately needs stemming from *this* affection, not romance. Not yet. I heard a saying once that I definitely believe: To love another, you must love yourself first. Now, it can definitely be read wrong, but the intent remains true. If you're sooo messed up that you consider yourself unlovable, how can *any* romantic relationship last? People do things to sabotage themselves all the time, and Harry is *so* fractured, so neglected… He's got a long way to go before he can have a healthy, romantic relationship (nothing against him, and certainly notwithstanding Voldemort's rise *anyway*). I guess I just feel that Harry *needs* family and friends right now (GoF) *far* more than he needs a romance. Besides, romance by its very nature is exclusive. To let someone *that* completely into your life *will* exclude others. I want to give Harry and Sirius a chance to get to know each other first before Harry (or Sirius) goes off and falls for someone. Wow. That was a long rant. *Anyway*, that's why I don't have romance in this story. Thanks for agreeing with me! g lol Hope Rita lived up to your expectations, even though she wasn't first person. That privilege is reserved for Snape. g Thanks for the insightful review. Snape and Harry next chapter. Honest!
Rowan: Glad I won you over. I felt the same way, trust me. But I simply felt like any other animal *wouldn't* be true to HP. I'm definitely glad I listed my reasons at the end though. People felt strongly one way or the other about it. g Thanks for the kind review!
Von: Hmmm…. You're getting warmer…. We'll see as to your second question, though. Wizards live much longer than normal Muggles anyway, but I hadn't thought it through that far. Good question! Good observations, too. Don't know his colors yet because he's bald at the moment. I had to put that in there Like your idea. I'll definitely keep it in mind… Thanks for the review!!!
Buff200020002002: Yep, I saw Percy as the perfect candidate for doing something he *felt* was right based on a flaw I perceived about him right away that hadn't been exploited. Self-righteousness is a nasty flaw indeed. It can blind you to all sorts of truths. Ron, I felt after the guilt he felt in Goblet of Fire, *is* a changed friend. He deserted his friend when he needed support the most, and he's bright enough to know it. I suspect this is *his* guilt that's going to be around a while, and rightfully so. It's no fun to realize the emotions you feel are based on jealousy and resentment. You don't come out of self-analysis a winner. I can guarantee that much. I definitely see Ron's pendulum swinging wildly from 'No Support' to 'Stands by friend at any cost'. As for Sirius and Remus… we don't really get a good glimpse of just *who* they are (canon). I know, I know. Sirius is coming soon, honest. I've just had to beat a couple of other subplots into submission first. He's coming. In fact… No, wait, I'll stop right there! Ginny isn't too fleshed out in the books for me, and I'm reluctant to invest too much into her personality until I see if JKR is going to, so I'm keeping her canon. I'm writing this as much for a HP fix as anything. The book has been delayed tooooo looooooong! I'm suffering here!!! Hello!? See, I don't see Harry as a weak character. Ironically enough, I see him too as one with the most room for growth. He's so good, and you can *see* his potential just as clearly as Dumbledore can, and you just want to shake him into seeing himself the way everyone sees him… or adopt him and give him the proper home he deserves. I swear he brings out the Frodo complex in me sometimes. Poor Harry. Man! Anyway, thanks for the review. Enjoy!
MJ: Well, thank you very much for reviewing! I certainly intend to! Boy, do I love Snape as well. I think we all have an Inner Snape just yearning to get down with their snarky selves. I've just had the privilege to exercise mine! You are most welcome, and thanks for the kind words. I take them to heart, and tuck them away as yet one more reason why I really *should* commit to this as an art. (Not that I haven't already. People look at me like I've got three heads when I tell them I try to wake up at 4 a.m. every morning to at least write a little before work.)
Evie: In truth, I was kind of reaching with that, but glad you liked it! 8-) I sort of figured, with Snape being a Potions Master, that he'd be a scholar first. After all, he's highly esteemed in his field. Not a slouch considering all his extracurricular activities…. Or is it *because* of it? Bwah hah hah. I'm not telling on that one. But *something* is going to happen… soon.
Anonymous: Well, I'm glad you've followed since the beginning. I typically post about once a week, but as the chapters get denser with necessary plot stuff, I've had to slow down a bit and make sure it all flows. I'm trying to stick to the once a week, thing, though! Really! Thanks for the review!
Coconut-ice agent h/h: Bone chilling! I like it!!! Go me! 8-) I know, he's so permanently sick, people are starting to ask me, "You…. You don't intend to kill him after all this, do you?" hehehehe… Well, we'll have to see, but, I'm with you about Harry's physical strength. He's just a scrawny boy. The strength in him is in his spirit, and in his mind and heart. Glad you like it.
Bobbi: Well, I'm glad you're reviewing more often. I'm a review addict, so post away! Wow. Really glad you liked that scene. I admit, I was worried.
x-woman: lol I know, I know. I can't make *anything* easy on poor Harry. I'm not sure about that. A little, perhaps. I don't foresee Hagrid playing a big part in this fic, not because I don't adore him, because I do, but because of where most of this story is played out. Here you go!
Malexandria: Not really. Sirius decided against any *real* vengeance, but don't think what little he did didn't make an impression. Waking up with a renegade wizard battling with himself whether or not to kill you definitely sticks with a man, even one as shallow as Vernon.
Moonlight: You caught that! Not many did. I know. Poor Harry breaks my heart too. You're going to laugh, but I *swear* I look at little boys differently (fondly rather than, er, with annoyance. Hey, so sue me! I have pets, not kids! Too many years babysitting as a child.) Glad you like the Burning Day twist. Oh, thank you! And thanks for the kind compliments! *This* is why I'm sooo glad I did this (post on the internet). It's been my validation that I'm not the only one who thinks I do a decent job of writing. It makes me feel like a lifelong dream of mine isn't just a crack dream. I very much appreciate it.
Nicky: Bwah hah hah. Snape next chapter. Honest.
Katie: I'm so glad you like it, and think the characters are fully fleshed out. Wow. Thank you! Keep in mind, this story is definitely written more for adults than children, so I have that advantage. No, no, no, no, no immediate Snape/Harry bonding (not bondage! Get your heads out of the gutter!g), but you have to admit, it's happening anyway. Snape's not an evil man, he's just not *nice* either. Oh, I know what you're talking about. I agree. Snape is too consistent through the books. He's not going to change. The fact that he's a good guy *is* the change. Yep, I'm very partial to Harry and Sirius (no slash here either) as well. Maybe it's because they've both endured so much, to even see them being able to *spend* time together seems so much more significant. Phoenix happy…. Hehe… Nah, I think there just comes a moment in many people's lives when they pause, look around them, and ask, "Where's the punchline?" Not that Harry is there… but some of the irony was.
Mara Arwen Black-McGregor: Sometimes it seems that way to me as well! Hehehehe. I'm so glad the Christmas memory was a hit. It was a challenge to dip into pre-Canon timelines and insert something of my own. I wanted it to not take away from the integrity of the series, but still flesh it out a bit. I have a whole scenario regarding his birthday, too. Don't know if I'll have a chance to use it. Yes, Harry was a bit more cheerful here, wasn't he? grins madly to making you cry High praise indeed. I had fun with that phoenix plot twist myself. It was pretty visual writing it, trust me. I *totally* picture Snape as the ultimate aristocrat. He can blend seamlessly with Lucius and his ilk, yet he disdains his own heritage even as it shrouds him in it. 4 cats, one sorely outnumbered pooch, and a fiancé that smiles in bewildered indulgence at my Potter obsession.
Aussie Chick: Well, hello there lurker! Thanks for dropping a line!
Demonic angel: hehehehe… I'm glad you like it!
Kateydidnt: Good questions. Clever! Yes, I haven't mentioned anything about that, have I? Hmmm. We'll see. Next chapter! Glad you decided to stay. Hmm. Another good question. You'll see.
Evilkarky: Ooooh, recommendations! I like those! 8-) Thank you very much!
Lothey: Get down with your bad self!!!
Green Eyed Knight: Oh, I'm glad you liked that one. I was rather proud of it myself. 8-) giggles at your comment Nope, nothing badly taken here. Normal is *boring*, normal is *bland*… Ironically, writing is my catharsis. Believe it or not, in person, for the most part, I'm quite cheerful. That my chosen writing form is soooooooo dark is… enlightening to people once they get to know me. Probably best not to take away my ability to write, don't you think? grins evilly as people slowly back away Thank you, though, very much! G