Part III – Living with Death
Thursday - 1 August – 11:10 AM – Diagon Alley
POP,POP,POP,POP,POP,POP. Six more medi-witches and wizards arrived at the scene. Two went to Tonks, one to George, one to Fred, one to Lee, and one to Ron. Two of the ones who had arrived earlier were working on Umbridge, the other was looking at the little kids. Ron was huddled under a blanket shaking badly.
Remus apparated to the burrow. He found Molly and Ginny visiting while feeding the gnomes in the back garden. Molly smiled for a moment, then looked into Lupin's sad overly gray eyes, and the smile vanished from her face.
"What's wrong Remus?"
"Molly, there's been an attack at the joke shop a few moments ago. There are injuries. I thought you should know. I'm very sorry." Molly told Ginny to stay put, knowing that in the same circumstances, she wouldn't herself. She and Remus apparated outside the joke shop.
When they got to Diagon Alley, Molly's fears from the boggart at Grimmauld place a year ago were realized. Lying in the ground were nearly half of her children. Ron, George and Fred were under Mediwizard blankets being attended to. Next to them, two bodies were covered under similar blankets. A few steps away an arm was on the ground with a yellow circle surrounding it. Rita and Bozo were on the scene, taking notes and snapping photographs. Molly felt weak and got sick. A minute later, Ginny arrived. She had used the floo to get to the Leaky Cauldron. She saw the two Death Eaters in their anti-apparation manacles, walked up to them, and kicked the closest one in the side as hard as she could. Shacklebolt let her finish, walked up to her and picked her up before she could similarly injure the other one. He half wished that he hadn't seen her, and she'd had her way with them for five minutes before anyone had noticed. He carried her across the street, smiled at her, and asked her to please behave.
Tonks was unconscious and was being port keyed along with the two mediwitches that had been attending to her. At that moment, Dumbledore apparated to the scene as did Amelia Bones. He was talking with Shacklebolt for a few seconds when another explosion rocked the building. Glass and bricks flew, badly injuring the two mediwitches that had previously been looking at Umbridge. A second Dark Mark rose from the back of the building. Ginny realized that her arm was bleeding. She showed it to Molly, who cast a healing charm on it. Dumbledore took a good look around the area. Who or what he was looking for wasn't immediately obvious. He walked over to the severed arm lying on the street, and noticed another of the identical wands next to it. He motioned over to Rita and Bozo to come over and photograph it. By now, several hundred gawkers had gathered. Kingsley wanted to preserve as much of the evidence as he could. He pointed his wand to his throat calling Sonorus. "Everyone please take a few steps back. If you witnessed the first explosion, please come forward. Everyone else please move back." The only people who came forward were the mother of one of the kids who had been in the store and Dennis Creevey.
Dumbledore arrived at about the same time as Bones, found Lupin and asked him if he had witnessed the attack.
"Only the end professor. Harry and Tonka had subdued the attackers by the time I arrived here following Hermione and her parents. Tonks was hurt pretty badly. Harry was holding her trying to slow the bleeding until help arrived. Three or four Aurors port keyed Harry and the Grangers away. Straighthand was one of them. He and two of the Aurors immediately returned back here."
"Did you see who this arm belonged to?"
"No. The first thing that I noticed was two or three Death Eaters apparating away. Dumbledore and Lupin walked up to the Death Eaters – Marietta Edgecombe and Carl Warrington. He looked under the blankets. Under the first one was the gray face of Delores Umbridge, under the second was Lee Jordan, and his beautiful shoulder length dreadlocks. Dumbledore had always liked Lee, fondly remembering his colorful tussles with Minerva while announcing the Quidditch matches.
By now, the mediwitches had port keyed Ron, Fred, George, Tonks, and the other injured. Dumbledore talked for a minute with the six small children that had been in the building. Kingsley was getting a preliminary statement from Mrs. Anna Smith, the mother of one of the students.
Amelia surveyed the mess. The second blast had injured several others who had been nearby. She was certain that anyone who had been inside would have been killed.
Dumbledore walked over to her. "Hello Amelia. One of the Death Eaters who had apparated away was wounded quite badly. I don't think she would have been going to St. Mungo's. I believe that Voldemort lacks a sufficient supply of blood restorative potions to treat his wounded, or has the time to brew it himself. I expect that he will be sending some people to Woodsworth Apothecary in Knockturn Alley momentarily to procure some. Perhaps you might consider sending some Aurors to head them off."
Amelia sensed the wisdom in his words and replied, "An excellent idea, Dumbledore. MacDonell, Straighthand, and Jones, go to Woodsworth immediately. Stop anyone attempting to buy blood restoratives. Expect trouble. Be very careful." It would be another long day for her.
… - …
Meanwhile at little Hangleton, Flint, Montague, and Bulstrode apparated back, only to find Voldemort and six Death Eaters standing over the unconscious form of Bellatrix. Voldemort had cauterized the wound to keep her alive, but doing so virtually eliminated the possibility of fitting a replacement for her severed arm. He levitated her inside and told one of the Death Eaters to bring up all of the blood replacement potion from the laboratory. Voldemort wondered what the hell Snape had gotten himself imprisoned for. He really needed his skills right at the moment. Bella was slipping away. He administered as much as he had on hand. It wasn't enough. He said "Woodson, bring Nott's son Theodore along to Knockturn Alley and get six or seven more doses. He won't be recognized, but stay with him." He told Bulstrode, Montague and Flint to go home and prepare their alibis. "You did not fail me today. It was mere bad luck that Bella was hit with something other than the usual Auror stunner." He looked at her. She had lost most of her blood. Unless those idiots came back within a few minutes, she wouldn'tt survive. Fortunately she was unconscious, and not in pain.
Five minutes later Chuck Woodson returned.
"Where is the potion?"
"I did not get it, my lord. The Aurors were waiting for us at Woodworth's. Theodore Nott was taken."
"Crucio. You idiot. You failed me for the last time. Avada Kedavra. You idiot." Voldemort started kicking the dead man. A minute later, Bellatrix began convulsing badly. "Avada Kedavra." The shaking stopped. "I'm sorry Bella. I failed you." He looked at her for a moment and said, "Come Wormtail. We have business on Skye Island. You others, return home until I summon you."
Fifteen minutes later, Shacklebolt, Snape and Hammer found an empty house, two dead bodies, and a box with sixty five wands. Hammer portkeyed back to the Ministry Morgue with Woodson and Bellatrix. She brought the box of wands up to Director Bones' office, and filed her report.
Fifteen minutes earlier, Amelia had returned to the Ministry. She apologized to Potter and the Grangers for keeping them waiting so long. She asked Harry to come back the next day at a time that would be convenient for him for some follow-up questions. She had Percy get Harry some temporary robes while he cleaned the blood off of his robes. A few minutes later he came back. Harry went to the Men's room and dressed. Lupin gathered them up and they drove home.
Aurors Nick Straighthand, Bob Amos and John Thomas were walking through the ruins of the building. The blast originated from a package that Bulstrode had set on the floor next to the sales counter of the shop. It had contained several pounds of muggle military C4 explosive, a timed detonating device and fifteen pounds of steel balls - essentially an extra large claymore mine, designed to kill people, not simply destroy property. A fire must have started in the original scuffle, and ignited some of the fireworks that the Weasleys sold in their store.
An hour later, Dumbledore appeared at the ruin. The Aurors had finished their investigation, and were talking outside. They had taken all of their photographs and were ready to leave the scene and let the wrecking crew begin their work the next day.
Dumbledore could repair the building, but its contents were lost. He concentrated on his memory of the building and its layout for several minutes. Holding both arms out at their sides, he turned clock ways three times, and softly spoke an incantation. A few seconds later, the building began reassembling itself, like a hurricane being played backwards. The bricks, glass, mortar and wood all remembered their places. He left the inside of the newly rebuilt building alone – Molly, Arthur, Ginny, and Bill would see to it.
Straighthand marveled at what he had just witnessed. He had been a student at Hogwarts, graduating some ten years earlier. He knew Dumbledore was an exceptionally skilled wizard, but had never seen anything like that in his life. He would forever think his own ability at transfiguration feeble after having witnessed that event. In most cases after a building is destroyed, the wreckage is vanished, and the building is rebuilt from scratch. In minor cases like the attack at the residence in Crawley two weeks ago, a repair crew was dispatched, and the pieces were mended, one at a time. To see a building spontaneously rebuild itself was a marvel even in the magical world.
Straighthand walked up to Dumbledore who had sat down for a few minutes to rest. Dumbledore noticed him, and asked, "Good evening, Nick. After examining the building, what are your conclusions?"
"Professor, we found dozens of these round steel marbles. They don't look like they belong in a joke shop."
"You are correct, Nick. They are muggle made objects, called ball bearings. Their normal use is to aide in muggle automobile manufacturing. One of the Death Eaters had perverted their purpose to create a bomb designed to kill people. How many people were in the building when it was attacked?"
"At least nine, sir. We've identified six students and one of their mothers, who was waiting outside. Two of the Weasley brothers and the Jordan boy were working at the time. The other Weasley twin was in the firefight with the Death Eaters, and came into the building as it finished. He was the one that we followed into the building. Inside, we found the Jordan boy. The one with the dreadlocks had been killed with a curse. The older Weasley, Fred was badly injured with shoulder damage. We took the little kids out of the store and found the last Weasley brother curled up in shock. About five minutes after we got everyone out, the bomb went off and blew the building. Two of the mediwitches were injured in the blast."
"Very insightful, Nick. Save the ball bearings. They are part of your evidence. What else did you find?"
"Each of the Death Eaters had a second wand, identical to the ones from the last attack. The arm that was found belonged to a woman. We estimate her age between 35 and 40. The wound must have been massive. The spell that had severed the arm must have hit several inches below the collar bone. The other Death Eater was identified as Delores Umbridge. She had been similarly hit in the left hip bone, and died a few minutes later from blood loss. I am surprised that neither woman had thought to use a shield charm. We transported the two prisoners to the holding cell, Umbridge to the morgue, and the evidence to the holding room. I need to fill out my reports now. You called these ball bearings, correct?"
"Yes Nick. You did well. Complete your work and hug your son Nigel, and wife Anna when you get home."
"Yes Professor, thank you." Straighthand was dumfounded. He had never known Dumbledore well as a student, yet the man had remembered his wife Anna, and their son Nigel. He had worked at the ministry nine years and that arse Fudge barely acknowledged him in the building, usually saying "Good morning…" then realizing that he couldn't think of Nick's name, instead muttering "Carry on Auror." What a wanker, a politician with no people skills.
… - …
Back at the Ministry Amelia gathered her thoughts of the day.
Two related attacks in one day. The most wanted witch in Briton had been apprehended, dead or alive, a senior Ministry official found to be a Death Eater, charged posthumously for murder, apprehended, dead or alive. Two kids wanted for murder apprehended, dead or alive. Three others got away. Another Death Eater apprehended fifteen minutes later, right where Dumbledore said that he would be. Another got away. On the plus side - two Death Eaters dead, three apprehended. Also on the plus side, six kids got out of a certain death without a scratch. The plus side indicated that it had been a fabulous day.
It was the down side that was causing the tears to well up in her eyes. Nigel MacDonell was dead. He was a good man. Lee Jordan had been murdered. She too had heard his Quidditch commentary, and had seen his infectious smile. The world would be a little less bright without that kid. Tonks had been critically wounded. She wasn't even back from an unpaid leave, and she was giving everything that she had to make the world a safer place. The Weasley twins. Of all of the wizards in the world to select as murder victims, why would anyone want to take away a pair with such creative genius talent at letting people have fun? Their brother Ron. The kid was out of the frying pan at the department of Mysteries only to witness what would have been a multiple murder two months later. The kid could end up a resident of St. Mungo's.
She reviewed the action. Voldemort had sent a much larger force to raid the joke shop. That blasted rat Pettigrew had probably scouted it. One of the kids probably planted the bomb to begin with. Then rather than just kill them and be done with it, seven Death Eaters show up in the joke shop to torment the occupants before killing them. What a bunch of sick shites.
Then like a white knight, Potter shows up. By a stroke of luck or genius he hit Lestrange first. Why had he used a Reducto charm? Had she had a shield up? It would have taken a profoundly powerful wizard to blow a shoulder off with out a shield, let alone with one up. The kid even had the presence of mind to call in for help. How many wizards kept a cell phone, and knew the emergency number? Hell, how many wizards even knew what a cell phone was?
Then he took out Umbridge. His ability to select the deadliest targets was uncanny. He had done the same thing two weeks before. Amazing. So why had he used Reducto? She found the answer when she recalled a conversation with him from earlier in July – "We were badly outnumbered, and the stunned Death Eaters kept coming back" at him at the Department of Mysteries. He had downed three there. Today he would have been badly outnumbered if he had not hit Bellatrix when he did. Tonks was downed five seconds later. It would have been six or seven to two. There would be no actions taken against him at all. She would do whatever it took to squash any call for use of unjustified force. If getting rid of two Death Eaters wasn't enough, he saved Tonk's life in his spare time. If he would allow it, she would use his pensive memory of the firefight as a training tool for her Aurors.
Tomorrow she would have Tonks and Shacklebolt nominate Potter for the Order of Merlin. She would miss MacDonell. The wizarding community would miss Jordan, but the wizarding community was a safer place at six PM than it had been at six AM. She would make sure that the kids in that building knew that they had been rescued by a real hero. She closed the door to her office and went home. Tomorrow would be another day.
… - …
Thursday - 1 August – 8:00 PM – Grimmauld Place
Dumbledore had called an Order meeting that night. Remus took Harry and Hermione along with him. Most of the members were in attendance, except Tonks, Molly, and the twins. Dumbledore again decided to start the meeting with a summary of the facts as he knew them. He did not know how Harry would handle the news. Seated next to Harry were Hermione on his left and Poppy Pomfrey on his right.
"Good evening. Today at eleven a group of seven Death Eaters attacked the Weasley joke shop in Diagon Alley. The raid was timed to coincide with the trial for Severus, which concluded remarkably quickly. Their plan apparently was to hide a bomb in the store and seal the entrance when the best mix of customers was there. At the time, there were six first or second year students shopping in the store, as well as Fred Weasley, Ron Weasley and Lee Jordan working the store. The plot was uncovered prematurely before the door had been sealed. Auror Tonks, George Weasley, and Harry Potter were approaching the entrance, and saw the Death Eaters as they had started to leave the store, firing the Dark Mark over the store. At the same time the Death Eaters must have been noticed by the inhabitants of the store. Lee Jordan was murdered with a killing curse. Fred Weasley was similarly attacked, but the curse missed, which started a fire that caused a small explosion of fireworks. Ron Weasley was apparently stunned."
He continued, "Outside, Harry Potter hit Bellatrix with a Reducto charm, mortally wounding her. She apparated away to the Riddle Manor. Tonks stunned Marietta Edgecombe. George stunned Carl Warrington. Tonks was hit with a curse from Delores Umbridge, and fell seriously wounded. Harry mortally wounded Umbridge. Prior to casting spells, Harry, with remarkable presence of mind, called the ministry for help. After Umbridge fell, the other Death Eaters fled and Harry gave first aid to Tonks, saving her life. George went into the shop and got his brothers and Lee's body out safely."
"At that time the Ministry Aurors, Mediwitches and wizards began arriving, apprehending the prisoners, getting the students out of the smoke filled store. Harry, Hermione and her parents were port keyed to the Ministry for safekeeping and de-briefing."
"The Investigators were outside collecting evidence, and any eye witness accounts. I had arrived on the scene a few minutes later and suggested to Director Bones to station some Aurors outside Woodsworth apothecary, as one or more Death Eaters were in need of more blood replenishing potion than Voldemort was likely to possess. Nick Straighthand, Nigel MacDonell, and Hestia were sent, and found two Death Eaters a few minutes later. MacDonell was killed. Death Eater Theodore Nott was apprehended. Death Eater Woodson escaped and went back to Riddle manor empty handed. Within a minute of the last inhabitant getting out of the smoking building, a bomb that had been planted exploded, injuring Mediwitches Smith, and Bigley who were nearby outside. It is our speculation that, like the attack a few weeks ago on the Granger residence, today's attack was also designed to be an initiation for some new Death Eaters. Had the attack not been broken up by Harry, George, and Tonks, along with Harry's call for assistance, it is doubtless that there would have been nine or ten casualties."
He continued, "Severus, Kingsley, and Hestia went to Riddle Manor an hour later, and found that Voldemort had murdered Woodson. Bellatrix had by then died of her wounds. A quick search of the house yielded a box of the American wands that were recovered. Apparently Voldemort had made a hasty exit. No one else was there. Bellatrix and Woodson were port keyed back to Auror headquarters, along with the wands. Riddle Manor was torched, and to my knowledge, destroyed."
"Auror Straighthand was investigating in the wreckage of the joke shop when I went back there. He found a quantity of small marble sized steel ball bearings that had apparently been placed with the bomb to ensure death or crippling injury to the inhabitants."
Dumbledore concluded, "At this time, I will open the floor, for questions."
Hermione asked, "Professor, what are the conditions of those who were taken to St. Mungo's?"
Arthur responded, "I can perhaps answer that best. I just came from there. Nymphadora Tonks had a very serious head wound, and was bleeding very badly. Harry doubtless saved her life on the street before the Mediwitches arrived. She is still unconscious, but the Healers are optimistic. What is unknown, is what the long-term effects will be due to her loss of so much blood."
He continued, "George received several nasty burns on his arms and back while carrying Fred, Lee and Ron out of the building. George was treated, and is expected to be released late tomorrow. Ron received minor physical injuries, but has suffered a rather nasty case of shock from witnessing the events. He is not speaking or responding to people. He was given some dreamless sleep potion and is expected to rest for a few days."
Pomfrey asked, "What about the Aurors and Mediwitches?"
Hestia answered. "Smith and Bigley received cuts and a broken arm, and a broken leg respectively from the explosion. MacDonell was killed in the fight at Woodworth's shop."
Hagrid asked, "What about Umbridge?"
Hestia answered. "She attempted to escape, and extra time was spent subduing her. The Mediwitches who had been trying to help her were injured by her bomb blast. She died from her wounds before being transported to St. Mungo's."
Hagrid muttered, "Served her right, that stinking witch."
Minerva asked, "Do we know who murdered Lee and attempted to murder Fred?"
Dumbledore replied, "No. The prisoners have not been interrogated yet, and the wands have not been tested. That will probably happen tomorrow."
About that time, Harry who had been feeling ill after hearing the news about Bellatrix, and Umbridge got up and ran to the kitchen. He threw up several times and was in a cold sweat. Remus, Hermione and McGonagall went to him, took him up to one of the rooms, and put him on one of the beds. After a minute, McGonagall came back and called for Poppy. She gave Harry a small sleeping potion. She and Lupin returned a few minutes later.
Moody was telling Hagrid about being ill for a week the first time he had to kill one of Grindelwald's goons.
Dumbledore resumed the meeting. "Are there other questions?"
"Do you have an idea where Voldemort left to go to?"
"I have my theories Alastor, but they are only that. Depending on how many Voldemort has recently recruited, his Death Eater count has been significantly impacted. I suspect that he has left England either to attempt recruiting, or is looking at getting the dark creatures to join his side."
"What happened to Severus?"
"Hagrid, he was convicted, fined, and sentenced to Rye Hill prison. He needs to report by Saturday morning. Due to a pre-trial appeal to the Wizengamot by Harry and the Grangers, Severus was given 48 hours to settle his affairs. Through the same appeal, Severus was sentenced to Rye Hill rather than Azkaban. Being a private prison, he is eligible to participate in a work release program. He will be working at the potions research center at St. Mungo's for treatments of two conditions."
"Is there any connection between the captured/killed death eaters and the previous attack?"
"I'm not yet certain. Their depositions will give us some clues."
"How did you know about Bellatrix?"
"Molly, that was a lucky guess. She had been scheduled to go on the raid at the Granger residence. I didn't think that she would allow herself to miss a second raid. She enjoyed killing too much to miss an opportunity."
"What can we do to help?"
"For the near term, learn what you can, stay safe, and most importantly support each other. Good night, my friends."
Remus walked up the stairs, and softly knocked on the door. Hermione was curled up on the top of the bed, behind Harry, holding her best friend. He got them up, they went outside, and portkeyed back to the back of the Black Dog. They walked Hermione home, went back to the flat above the Black Dog, and fell into their beds. It had been a crappy day.
… - …
Ironically the bodies of Lee Jordan, Delores Umbridge, and Nigel MacDonell lay side by side in the Ministry Morgue. Lee had never thought ill of anyone, Umbridge rarely had a happy thought, and MacDonell just wanted to make the world a safer place for his family. Three more lives had been ruined by Voldemort.
… - …
Friday - 2 August – 8:00 AM – Granger residence
Hermione opened the Prophet and saw the headline.
Death Eater Attack Foiled
Story by Rita Skeeter
Another Death Eater attack took place yesterday in Diagon Alley. Lives were saved by the valiant efforts of Mr. George Weasley, Auror Nymphadora Tonks, and Mr. Harry Potter. The attack began as a plot to bomb the most unlikely of places, the popular shop Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, a shop that is visited by hundreds of our children each day. Potter, Weasley, and Tonks had spotted the Death Eaters just as they were casting the Dark Mark outside the shop. Placed in a life threatening situation, Tonks, Potter, and Weasley held the lives of others ahead of their own, and fought off the Death Eaters. Potter mortally wounded escaped convict Bellatrix Lestrange (See page 4 for details) the most wanted witch in Britain. Delores Umbridge, Former Senior Undersecretary to Minister Fudge, showed her true colours and also received her just reward for her effort. (See page 6 for details)
Minister Fudge could not be reached for comment. Only months ago he was praising Umbridge's efforts at ramming unneeded changes down the school board of Governor's throats, and making foolish changes at Hogwarts, Britain's premier wizarding school. Fortunately those changes were found to have been influenced by convicted Death Eaters and have since been reversed. (See page 8 for details on Fudges association with convicted Death Eaters)
Also captured in the raid were two other Death Eaters, one of which was a member of Umbridge's "Inquisitorial Squad," a brute force group formed by Umbridge during her nightmarish term at Hogwarts school. Umbridge had been placed there by Fudge. (See page 9 for details)
Anna Smith, a mother of one of the children slated for death in the store said, "I will forever be grateful to Mr. Weasley, Auror Tonks, and especially Mr. Potter. Without their efforts, I would be planning a funeral for my daughter Ericka. I am certain that the mothers of the other children feel the same. They are true heros."
Auror Tonks was critically wounded in the attack. She is recovering at St. Mungo's, and is currently listed in serious condition. Dennis Creevey, who also witnessed the attack was quoted as saying, "I thought those bloody Death Eaters were going to kill everyone in the shop. Harry and the other two really let them have it. They got what was coming to them. I hope the others are made to suffer for their crimes."
The Death Eaters are expected to be charged tomorrow with crimes ranging from murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder of an Auror, assault, possession of an unauthorized wand, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia, damage to property, and unlawful display of a sign or symbol.
Killed in the attack was Mr. Lee Jordan. (See page 16 for biography) Several other unnamed employees of the store were injured, and are currently recovering at St. Mungo's.
Hermione put the paper down. There were tears in her eyes as she read about Lee. He was such a delight to know as a person. Rita was certainly writing accurately. She had turned into a great reporter, having given up that tabloid trash. She hoped that Harry would get home early from the Ministry, so she could spend time with him. He looked so down last night. She was worried about her boyfriend.
… - …
Harry arrived at Director Bone's office at nine the morning after the attack. He was announced by Percy who seemed either in awe of or in fear of him for some reason. "Mr. Potter is here to see you Director Bones."
"Thank you, Percy. Please show him in. We would like coffee and biscuits in fifteen minutes. That will be all, Percy. Please close the door. Thank you for coming in again Harry, or should I say Professor Potter?"
"Harry. Just Harry."
"Thanks Harry. Amelia OK?"
"OK."
"Let me tell you what I know and we will work from there. Before we start, would it be possible to get a copy of your memory for my Solicitor's pensive? Then we can talk about it." Harry pointed his wand at his temple, muttered something and withdrew a long silver strand and placed it in her pensive. She thanked him. "We'll look at it in a moment."
She continued, "We believe that there were seven Death Eaters – Lestrange, Umbridge, Edgecombe, Warrington, and three others. There may have been others involved. There were nine people in the joke shop – Fred and Ron Weasley, Lee Jordan, and six eleven or twelve-year-old kids who were shopping there. An anti-personal bomb had been placed in the shop. It was most likely detonated with a timing device, rather than by hand. Everyone was out of the shop by the time that it detonated. There were two witnesses who reported seeing a second Dark Mark set off possibly from the back of the building. It hasn't been confirmed. Who else do you think may have been involved in the raid?"
"It sounds like another training raid. My guess, based on the raid at the Grangers is that Umbridge selected the target, and was leading the operation, probably with people that she had recruited or trusted. Bellatrix probably went along as an overseer and to provide some extra firepower in case something went wrong. We saw them and fired as soon as I had called in. The raid had really started falling apart when Bellatrix was hit. We had each hit someone, and I hit Umbridge fourth. At that point the others started apparating, or portkeying away, and I went to help Tonks as best I could. Some Aurors and Healers arrived, and they saved Tonks. A few others portkeyed us to your office."
He continued. "With respect to who the others were, in the case of Malfoy's raid, they all had a tie to him. I wouldn't be surprised if the other three who got away had a tie to Umbridge. Warrington was a member of her Inquisitorial Squad, and Umbridge got to know Marietta over the investigation of the defense group that I was leading."
"Harry, who else was in the Inquisitorial Squad?
"Millicent Bulstrode, Carl Montague, there may be others. Parkinson may have been involved. When are you going to talk with the prisoners?"
"Soon. Can we look at the pensive now?"
They replayed the scene. Harry heard the explosion and called the Ministry. Harry hit Bellatrix. Tonks hit Marietta, and George hit Warrington. Tonks got hit and fell badly. Harry hit Umbridge, the other three Death Eaters vanished, and George ran off to the shop. Harry held his hand over Tonk's wound in a valiant attempt to keep her alive for another minute or two. It was over in less than twenty seconds.
Amelia asked, "Did you see anything that you didn't notice the first time?"
"Yes. There was something going on in the shop. Maybe they had been seen by someone inside."
"Good eye Harry. You did well out there. No one could have asked for more."
Percy knocked, and brought a tray with coffee, cream, sugar, and several biscuits. He left without saying anything. He knew better than to disturb Director Bones.
She offered him a cup and asked, "Harry what questions would you ask the prisoners?"
What is your name?
When did you become a Death Eater?
What spells did you cast on the first of August?
Who made the bomb?
Who selected the target?
Who went on the raid?
Who else do they know to be a Death Eater or who is being recruited?
She prodded him, "What questions would be best for finding out what went on in the store?"
Who killed Lee Jordan?
Who tried to kill Fred Weasley?
Who stunned Ron Weasley?
Who helped you train for the mission?
How did you train?
Amelia continued, "Harry, you may not know this but there was a second fight yesterday. A Death Eater was captured, and one of our Aurors was killed. The captured Death Eater was Theodore Nott, also a student. Every Death Eater that we've seen had at least a loose connection to Draco Malfoy. Auror Jones was involved with an unauthorized search of Riddle manor in Little Hangleton. That's in…"
"I've been there. That is Voldemort's Headquarters. He ordered Cedric Diggory's murder there."
"Harry, I'm sorry. I forgot that you were there that night. Merlin, you get around."
Harry smiled a bit and replied, "Don't apologize."
"Anyways, she came back with two dead Death Eaters, Bellatrix, and Chuck Woodson. Woodson had apparently been killed a few minutes before he was found, probably by Voldemort. She also brought back a big box of those American wands that have been turning up lately. My point is, his organization seems to be falling apart. I wouldn't be surprised to see a change in strategy, or a quiet period."
She got up. The meeting was over. She held out her hand. "Harry I can't thank you enough for all of your help. I will notify you of a trial date, when Edgecombe and Warrington are charged. Please enjoy the rest of your holiday in peace, and I wish you the very best at Hogwarts. Remember, we still have a date in two years."
"Thank you, Director Bones."
"Professor Potter."
They smiled at each other and laughed as he walked out the door. Percy spilled his tea standing up so fast when the door had opened. "Same old Percy," muttered Harry to no one. He found Remus in the outer waiting room.
"Let's go home," said Harry.
Lupin had a hard time reading Harry's face on the way back to the car. Clearly Bones hadn't planted any blame on Harry's shoulders during the conversation, but he didn't look like he had felt absolved of his guilt over the deaths, either.
Remus was worried about Harry. He hadn't said a word regarding his visit with Amelia that morning, nor had he eaten since the attack. Lupin wasn't going to tell Harry that his actions were justified, or that everything would be all right. The reality was that Harry would probably never be the same person again. Regardless of the justification, the fact remained that he had taken two lives within twenty seconds. Rather than spend the rest of the day staring at DVDs, Remus turned the car around, and told Harry that they were going to visit Tonks at St. Mungo's.
They located a spot to park, and found the floor in the hospital. An Auror that Harry did not recognize was sitting in a chair outside the door. Remus went up to him and quietly announced himself and Harry as visitors. The Auror immediately stood at attention. He softly knocked on the door, opened it a crack, announced the visitors, and opened the door to let them in. As they passed, he said, "It is an honor to meet you Mr. Lupin, and Mr. Potter sir."
They thanked him, by name, and walked in the room. As they were going in, Remus said that he was going to find the Weasleys, and that he would be back in ten minutes.
Tonks looked so small lying in the hospital bed. Her light blonde hair was pageboy length. Her nose was a little smaller than Harry had previously seen, and her cheeks a little thinner. Harry thought that she was really a pretty young woman when she wasn't going for the punk or goth look. What impressed him however; were Tonks' light blue eyes. They were by any objective description, beautiful. She saw him standing in the entrance, and softly called him over, "Come here, loverboy."
Harry sat very gently on the edge of her hospital bed. "How are you Tonks?" She had only the thinnest of scars on the right side of her face where a gash had been a day before.
"Thanks to you, I'm alive and able to make smart comments at you. Harry, I'm trying to say thank you. I really appreciate you standing with me back there. Most people would have run away. Given the chance, Bellatrix would have killed or tortured me in a blink. I owe you my life."
Her eyes met his and for a moment they looked into each other's heart. "Tonks, I messed up, and killed those people. I feel like shite."
"Yes you did. Make no mistake about it, and I thank you. Harry, it was them or us. I know that you will never forget it. Don't fight with me, please. Normally I'd be delighted to wrestle with you in my bed, but I'm too weak to give you a go today. Just hold my hand and sit with me for a few minutes, OK?"
"OK. Thanks."
She smile at him, "No worries, loverboy, and I meant what I said."
They sat in comfortable silence for the next five minutes. Remus softly knocked and came in a few seconds later. "Harry, let's trade people to visit with. The Weasleys would like to see you now. They are down the hall in rooms eleven and sixteen. I'll catch up with you in twenty minutes."
"OK. See you later Tonks, and thanks again."
She winked, as he walked out the door. Seventy-five feet away he spotted a red-haired hurricane running at him at full speed, nearly knocking him over when he caught her. Harry had to smile. Ginny was so full of life. "Harry, thanks to you I have my brothers." She kissed him on the lips with such passion that a weaker willed man would have reconsidered the priorities of his life.
Mrs. Weasley walked up to them and hugged them both. "Harry, our family owes you everything that we have. You've saved Ginny, Arthur, Ron, and now Fred. I thank you Harry. You're my hero."
"Please Mrs. Weasley. I didn't do anything special. I killed two people. I can't even look at myself."
Ginny slapped his face, surprisingly hard. "Harry, that's crap. You saved eight people in the store and Tonks too. You did what you needed to do to keep yourself and people that are important to you alive. Should you have walked away? Those two witches would have killed you, your friends and those kids without a thought." Tears were in his eyes. She nuzzled and kissed his cheek. "I'm sorry Harry. I didn't mean to hurt you."
"You didn't hurt me Ginny. You're a good friend."
"And so are you, Professor Potter." She smiled at him in a way that would make most men blush. "Just wait until you get me in detention. I can be so naughty."
"Ginevra," said Mrs. Weasley looking exasperated, but smiling. "Don't you dare cause problems for Harry at school."
"I'd like to see Fred, George, and Ron now if I may?"
She hugged him again. "Of course dear, Fred and George are in here."
"Hiya Harry," said George. "You're looking good. It's great to see you."
Fred sat up. "Hey Harry. Are you ready to go out for a few pints?"
Harry smiled a very genuine smile. "Anytime you two are ready. I'll buy. It's great to see both of you."
Fred spoke up, "Thanks Harry. Seriously, I wouldn't be here, or anywhere for that matter if you hadn't stopped those lunatics. Thank you. I know that you had to do some crappy stuff, but… I just wanted to say thanks." He looked as sincere as Harry had ever seen.
Harry nodded, too choked up for words.
George spoke up. "Harry, it's really crappy about Lee, but everyone in there was gutted if it hadn't been for you. I about wet myself when I saw those pukes walk out of the shop and fire the Mark. You kept your head, and sorted them out. You gotta look at it that some good people lived, not that a couple of witches had to die. Like Fred said, thanks mate. We owe you everything."
Harry mumbled something, waved and walked out of the room. Ginny gave him another round of hugs and kisses. She sat him down in a chair in one of the waiting rooms for a few minutes, standing behind him, massaging his shoulders until he had composed himself. He reached up and touched her hands, and said, "Thanks Ginny. You are a great friend." She sat on the chair facing him, and crossed her very tan legs. "Harry, Ron is kind of in a hard way right now. Don't expect too much."
Harry looked at her, not having understood a word that she had said. "Help me out Gin, I don't understand."
"He sort of came unglued in the shop. He was tortured, and expected to die. He's not talking to anyone, shakes a lot, and his eyes are unfocused, sort of like he'd been stunned, obliviated, and revived all at once."
"How can I help?"
"Just sit with him for a few minutes. Please?"
Harry and Ginny walked in Ron's Room. The Mediwitch who was there saw him come in, and looked like an embarrassed ten-year-old Ginny. Harry thanked her for taking good care of his friend. She looked at him, mumbled something and walked out of the room, dropping her clipboard.
Harry sat down, by his friend, held Ron's arm and said, "It's good to see you in one piece, mate. We'll get you patched up, and go have a few pints when you're ready."
Ron didn't answer. Harry just sat there, holding his friend's arm. A few minutes later, Remus caught up with him. They said their goodbyes, and left.
Remus looked at his friend. "Thanks for going Harry. They all needed to see you."
Harry had come to realize that heeling took many forms. He probably felt the same level of improvement from the visits as Ron or Tonks.
… - …
The holding cells at the lowest level of the Ministry were not horrible places like the prison fortress on Azkaban Island, but no one would mistake them for anything other than a jail. To prevent escape of their inhabitants they had every anti-apparation, anti-invisibility, anti-port key ward known to wizard kind. They were soundproof, and instead of the traditional bars, had steel sides and back with a transparent aluminum front wall and door. There was no privacy, no beds and buckets for plumbing.
Marietta had not slept last night. The last year of her life had gone from bad to worse. Cho had dragged her to some meeting because she had a thing for Harry Potter and wouldn't go anywhere alone. She had marks all over her face for weeks. Somehow Professor Umbridge had taken an interest in her, which had been OK for a month or two until she left the school. Umbridge had appeared at her house the day after school ended to join an organization that would restore proper wizarding attitudes, and reward those who thought right.
It turned out to be a hate organization, and once in, there seemed no way out. The next thing she knew, she was planning on going on a raid to blow up a building, and had killed Lee Jordan in a scuffle at the shop. Why had she ever learned that horrible spell? They had told her she would probably never even need to use it. She had panicked when it looked like they were going to get caught in the shop. What were her parents going to think of her? Would she ever see them again? It hurt to move. There was a terrible pain in her right side.
A tall man with a shaved head and a diamond stud in his left ear opened the door and asked her to come with him. They walked a hundred feet down the hall to a conference room. There was a table and two chairs. He asked her to sit down, and explained the deposition process. He administered the veritaserum. Behind the two way mirror sat Amelia Bones, with Investigator Connie Hammer acting as witness. The deposition recorded by a verbatim quill would be used as evidence in her trial which would be held the following Monday, the fifth of August. Kingsley sat down and read through the questions for a moment before starting.
What is your name? "Marietta Edgecombe."
When did you become a Death Eater? "I took the Mark three weeks ago."
What spells did you cast yesterday? "Avada Kedavra."
Who made the bomb? "A man named Wormtail."
Who selected the target? "Professor Umbridge."
Who left the bomb in the store? "Professor Umbridge."
Who went on the raid? "Bellatrix Lestrange, Professor Umbridge, Millicent Bulstrode, Marcus Flint, Michael Montague, and Carl Warrington."
Who killed Lee Jordan? "I did. He tried to stun me."
Who stunned Ron Weasley? "I don't know."
Who fired at Fred Weasley? "I don't know."
Who helped your group train? "Mr. Wormtail and Mr. Travers."
How did you train? "Mr. Travers taught us the killing curse. He said to use it if anyone put up a struggle."
Kingsley looked into the mirror. He heard one tap on the glass indicating that there were no other questions. The girl had probably told them everything useful that she knew. He led her back to her cell that had most recently been occupied by Draco Malfoy.
Carl Warrington was next. He was led out of his cell and administered the veritaserum. A few minutes later, Kingsley began his questioning.
What is your name? "Carl Warrington."
When did you become a Death Eater? "Eight months ago."
What spells did you cast yesterday? "A stunner."
Who made the bomb? "Peter Pettigrew."
Who selected the target? "Delores Umbridge."
Who left the bomb in the store? "Delores Umbridge."
Who went on the raid? "Bellatrix Lestrange, Delores Umbridge, Millie Bulstrode, Marietta Edgecombe, Marcus Flint, Peter Pettigrew, Michael Montague, and myself."
Who killed Lee Jordan? "Marietta."
Who stunned Ron Weasley? "I did."
Who fired at Fred Weasley? "Millie."
Who helped your group train? "Initially Voldemort, Bellatrix, and Pettigrew. Later Malfoy and Travers spent time with us. Wormtail showed Umbridge how to work the bomb."
There were two taps on the Window. A piece of parchment was sent through the mail slot into the room.
What spells were cast on Ron Weasley? "Bellatrix cast the Cruciatus curse on him for a minute or so and I stunned him to shut him up."
Do you know the names of any other Death Eaters? "Draco, Vincent, Greg, Greg's Dad, Draco's Dad, and Marietta's Mum."
There was one tap on the glass. Shacklebolt led Warrington back to his cell. He met back with Hammer, Dawlish, and Director Bones in the conference room.
"They were very interesting interviews. Well done, Kingsley. Not a word to anyone about the last question. Is that understood?" They all nodded.
"Kingsley, take three Aurors with you and pick up Bulstrode at her parent's house. Jones, take three Aurors with you and pick up Montague. Dawlish, take three Aurors with you and pick up Flint. All of you, be careful. Good luck."
Amelia had wondered why Potter had chosen not to hook his fireplace up to the floo network when she and Susan had been invited to his party. She knew that he was living above the pub. Dumbledore or someone else must have advised him against it. Michelle Edgecombe, Marietta's mother would have seen the floo registration, if there had been one.
Amelia went back to her office and pondered the interrogations. Marietta confessed to murder. She would certainly spend the rest of her days in Azkaban. What or who had drawn her down the road of darkness? How long had her mother been involved with the Death Eaters, either directly or on an as-needed basis? She had heard stories of Lucius Malfoy spending his way into people's pockets in exchange for a small favor from time to time. Umbridge almost certainly planted the bomb that Peter Pettigrew had made. Would a single pensive memory be enough to have Black pronounced an innocent man? With Dumbledore on the Wizengamot, he probably would be declared innocent. She wondered what would a bombshell like that do for Fudge? She would make sure that Harry had the opportunity to see a copy of the interrogation transcripts. She thought that he had held up well so far. In forty-five years on the Auror force, she was eternally thankful that she had never had to pull her wand and take a life.
She was pleased, but surprised that Marietta and Warrington had named the other team members. So much for Voldemort's legendary veil of secrecy. With a lot of luck, they would be in holding cells by the end of the day. With a tremendous amount of luck, all of the Aurors would be going home to their families at the end of their shifts.
… - …
An hour passed. Hestia Jones returned. Montague had been killed after attempting to kill Auror Smithson. The Dark Mark was on his arm. Smithson had a nasty cut on his arm, but would return home by evening.
Kingsley returned a half an hour later. Millicent Bulstrode gave herself up without a fight. She was currently in holding cell number three. "Well done Senior Auror Shacklebolt. I'm very glad that you and your team got back without anyone being hurt."
Twenty minutes later, she received the call that she dreaded every time she sent people out. Marcus Flint had cast a killing curse on Auror Dale Dawlish before apparating away. Flint had been seriously injured by Auror John Thomas, and was presumed to be down. Dawlish went up to him without stunning him again for safety. Flint pulled a second wand from his wrist holster, hit Dawlish, and apparated away. She went with another team out to the site to investigate, but nothing could be done to change things.
… - …
Saturday - 3 August – 7:00 AM - Hogwarts
The Prophet was full of deadly news. McGonagall went lipless as she read.
Death Eaters, Auror Killed in Knockturn Alley
Story by Rita Skeeter
Theodore Nott, 17 was charged yesterday afternoon with the murder of Auror Nigel MacDonell 32. In a surprise second skirmish that turned deadly, Ministry Aurors fought two other Death Eaters outside Woodworth's. Auror MacDonell was murdered trying to apprehend the two. Director Bones was quoted saying "Auror MacDonell died trying to protect the lives of innocent witches and wizards. I will always remember Nigel as being a good and courageous man."
She was shocked at how quickly the war had become so violent and deadly and continued to read.
Death Eaters, Auror Killed in Separate Captures
Story by Rita Skeeter
In three separate incidents a Death Eater was killed, an Auror Killed, and a Death Eater was captured. Curt Montague, 17 was killed resisting arrest, after attempting to kill an Auror who was bring Montague in for questioning relating to the bombing in Diagon Alley on 1 August. Auror Dale Dawlish was killed attempting to bring Death Eater Marcus Flint, 21 in for questioning relating to the same bombing. A third suspect has been brought in for questioning, but has not been charged yet.
Black Foundation Donates Big to Slain Auror Family Fund
Story by Rita Skeeter
The Sirius Black War Victims Fund announced the donation of 20,000 Galleons to aid the family of slain Auror Nigel MacDonell who was murdered by a Death Eater. Gringotts spokesman Wheelcart presented the bank draft to MacDonell's widow, yesterday evening.
Two Death Eaters Charged in Diagon Alley Bombing
Story by Rita Skeeter
Amelia Bones announced today that Marietta Edgecombe and Carl Warrington were charged for crimes relating to the vicious bombing of Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes on 1 August. Marietta Edgecombe, 17 was charged with the murder of store employee Lee Jordan, attempted murder ,and damage to property. The maximum sentence if found guilty is life imprisonment in Azkaban and significant fines.
Carl Warrington, 18 was charged with attempted murder, assault, damage to property, possession of Death Eater paraphernalia and possession of an unauthorized wand. The maximum sentence if found guilty is fifteen years imprisonment in Azkaban and significant fines. The trial date is expected to be announced tomorrow.
"Albus, how did we ever let all these children go so very wrong?" asked Minerva. "The only sixth year Slytherins left are Pansy Parkinson and Blaise Zabini."
"Some of their choices were overly influenced by their parents. Many were influenced by the friends that they chose to keep, and some due to excess allowances that Severus, and ultimately I myself allowed. We will need to give Professor Chang every assistance to help our students see the value of making wise choices."
… - …
Saturday - 3 August – St. Mungo's
Kingsley arrived outside room 11 at St. Mungo's. He needed to interview Fred Weasley and his brother. He arrived at Fred's room first. Arthur was just leaving. "Hello Kingsley."
"Hello Arthur. How are your boys doing?"
"On the whole, better. George was released yesterday, and is spending a few days at home with us. Fred should be released today or tomorrow. His injuries have largely healed. Ron…needs some time to collect his thoughts. I wish that Harry were around more to spend time with him. The only improvement that he has made came right after Harry had come for a visit. I need to be going, and didn't mean to keep you from your duties. Take care, Kingsley."
"You too Arthur." Arthur shook his hand and walked away. Kingsley knocked and opened the door to Fred's room. "Hello Fred," said Kingsley. "It looks like you're doing a lot better than the last time that I saw you."
"Good morning, Auror Shacklebolt. How do we do this? Have a seat."
"Thank you Fred. I'll set up the verbatim quill, and ask you some questions relating to the bombing. Please be a specific as you can. If you need to stop for a minute at any time, just say so. If you are not sure of something, it's okay to think about it for a moment before answering. If you don't know an answer, please say so. At the end, if you have any questions, I'll be happy to answer them if I can. Okay?"
Fred nodded and replied, "I'm ready."
What is your name? "Fred Weasley."
Are you one of the owners of the Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes joke shop located in Diagon Alley? "Yes."
Were you there on the first of August in the morning? "Yes."
Please describe what happened about 11:00 AM. "Lee and I were at the counter. Ron was in the back getting some additional stock to bring out. Seven Death Eaters walked into the shop, and rounded up everyone. There were six kids who'd come in to look around."
Did you recognize any of the Death Eaters? "Yes. Umbridge, Flint, Montague, Marietta Edgecombe, and I believe Bellatrix Lestrange."
What happened next? "Lee tried to stun Marietta. She killed Lee. Bellatrix found Ron, who had seen what was happening, and was hiding in back. She cast the Cruciatus curse on him, and was having fun torturing him for a minute or two. Some of the Death Eaters were getting ready to leave, and something happened outside. I believe that Harry, Tonks, and George had seen one of the Death Eaters casting the Dark Mark. Bulstrode tried to kill, me, missed, and started a fire in the shop with the missed spell. Umbridge got the other Death Eaters out, and tried to seal the door. Either she didn't have time, or messed up the spell, because it never closed properly. About half a minute later George came through the door, and got me out first. He went back and found Lee, and carried his body out. He went back a third time to look for Ron. Someone else got the little kids out. A few minutes later the bomb that they left went off, and blew up the building."
Kingsley nodded. Emotion was getting the better of Fred. He asked, "Can I stop for a moment?"
"Sure. You did fine. I just have one or two more questions. Tell me when you are ready."
After a minute, Fred had composed himself. "Okay. Let's go."
Did you happen to see or hear anything or anyone out back before or during the raid?
"I wasn't in a position to. Ron may have."
Kingsley remarked, "Thank you, Fred. This ends the deposition. Do you have any questions for me?"
Fred immediately asked, "Where's Lee's body?"
"His parents arranged a private service for him this morning. No one was invited."
Kingsley went to Ron's room. A healer was in looking after him. Kingsley introduced himself. The Healer suggested that he either come back in a week or two, or he keep it to one or two questions. Kingsley got set up, and said, "Ron. My name is Kingsley Shacklebolt. Do you recognize me?"
"Yes."
Can you tell me what happened at the shop the first of August?
"They were about to seal the door and let the building b, burn up until it exploded. Something happened outside, and they never got it shut. Umbridge tried to kill Fred, missed and started the fireworks. Someone else killed L, Lee. Someone put the Cruciatus curse on m, m, me. The kids were screaming, and there was blood, screaming and blood, screaming…" His eyes went unfocused again. His shaking worsened. The healer sent Kingsley away, muttering something obscene about insensitive men.
Kingsley had seen Cruciatus victims before, but aside from the Longbottoms he didn't know anyone who was as messed up as this kid. He clearly needed all of the help that he could get. If this was the improved Ron, Shack hated to think what he was like before. He reviewed the document that the verbatim quote had written, and signed it. There were no inconsistencies from the depositions that Edgecombe and Warrington had given. He would probably get a statement from the Bulstrode girl next, and Director Bones would present the case to the Wizengamot for scheduling.
… - …
Saturday - 3 August – 1 PM – Ministry holding cell interrogation room
Senior Auror Shacklebolt was ready to start the interrogation with Millicent Bulstrode, the sixteen year old girl who had been captured and arrested yesterday. Witnessing were Auror Hestia Jones and Director Bones.
What is your name? "Millicent Bulstrode."
When did you become a Death Eater? "Three weeks ago."
What spells did you cast yesterday? "Avada Kedavra"
Who made the bomb? "Peter Pettigrew."
Who selected the target? "Delores Umbridge."
Who left the bomb in the store? "Delores Umbridge."
Who went on the raid? "Bellatrix Lestrange, Delores Umbridge, Carl Warrington, Marietta Edgecombe, Marcus Flint, Peter Pettigrew, Michael Montague, and myself.
Who killed Lee Jordan? "Marietta."
Who stunned Ron Weasley? "Carl did after Lestrange had tortured him"
Who fired at Fred Weasley? "I did"
Who helped your group train? "Mostly Bellatrix and Wormtail"
How did you train? Bellatrix taught us the killing curse.
Aside from your group, do you know any other Death Eaters? "Edgecombe."
Marietta? "Michelle."
There was one tap on the glass. The interview was done. Kingsley took her back to her holding cell, and went back to talk with Director Bones in her office. She showed him in and closed the door, telling Percy that there were to be no interruptions.
Amelia asked, "So Senior Auror Shacklebolt, are there any holes in the bombing case?"
"Only that Pettigrew is still at large. Umbridge selected the victims, planned it and planted the bomb. Lestrange tortured the younger Weasley brother, Ron. Marietta Edgecombe panicked, and killed Lee Jordan. Bulstrode attempted to kill Fred and set the building on fire. Warrington stunned Ron to get him to shut up. They heard a disturbance outside, got in a rush to leave, and either got picked off or got away within twenty seconds.
He continued. "Voldemort must have sent the others away afterwards because he was busy with Bellatrix. At the apothecary, they were all ready for someone to try to pick them up, and had each made their decisions to fight or surrender."
"What are your thoughts on the Woodworth case?"
"Immediately after sending the three returning bombers away, Voldemort told Chuck Woodson and Theodore Nott to go get some blood replenishing potion. Bellatrix must have been fading fast by then. Nott got captured, after he fired on Nigel MacDonell. Nott got stunned, while Woodson returned to Voldemort empty handed. It was the last thing that he ever did. Voldemort probably killed him himself. About then, Lestrange was suffering, and Voldemort did her as some sort of mercy killing. He must have sent everyone away immediately afterwards, as there was no one else there, and the bodies were still warm. I have no idea where he went, but my belief is that he would bring Pettigrew along with him. What do you think?"
"I think these raids have so deeply depleted his resources that he left to revise his strategy."
At that moment, Michelle Edgecombe walked in. "Amelia, I'd like to speak with you, alone.
"It's Director Bones, Mrs. Edgecombe. I've earned it. I'm in the middle of a meeting with Senior Auror Shacklebolt. If you have something that needs to be said right now, either say it, or make an appointment with Weasley."
The angry woman stated, "I demand to see Marietta this afternoon."
Amelia, thought for a moment. She could expose Michelle right now as a Death Eater, ending her employment at the Ministry, but turning a Death Eater loose, or order a search and probably get her for a fineable offense, or just let her see Marietta. Or they could force the issue and see if they could draw her out. She decided on forcing the issue, down in the anti-apparition rooms. "That's not a problem, Michelle, we'll be done in about five minutes. I'll be happy to take you myself. We'll meet you outside."
After Michelle left to wait in the lobby, Bones said to Shacklebolt, "Edgecombe and I will go down to the conference room together. Be waiting there in the observation room. I will have her leave her wand up here. Assume that she has another in her left sleeve. I will confront her, and see if she makes a move. Okay?"
Shack replied, "Okay, boss. Be careful. I like working for you."
She opened the door. "Dismissed Senior Auror Shacklebolt. Enjoy your evening."
"Thank you Director. I hope to have a woman's clothes off by the end of the evening. Oh, excuse me Mrs. Edgecombe. I didn't know you were there."
"Come in Michelle. I have to maintain procedure around the troops, or who knows what will happen. We can go see Marietta now. I apologize, but you will need to leave your wand up here. Standard procedure you know."
Edgecombe replied, "Of course."
They took the stairs to the detention level. The door to the detention level was locked. She made a show of unlocking it, having them both go through, and not re-locking the door.
They walked to the interview room. The table was gone. In its place were four chairs. Amelia left the door open. "I'll get her in a moment. Michelle, several of the people that we interviewed in the last few days indicated that they knew you. Why did you sell out?"
In an anxiety filled voice, the thin woman replied, "I don't know what you're talking about."
Bones calmly remarked, "Of course you do. Providing information when it was asked for was an easy start. How long have you been a Death…"
Michelle drew a wand. "Avad…" A flash of red light came from a wand pointed through the mail slot. Edgecombe went down before she could finish her thought.
Bones drew her own wand and stunned her a second time. Kingsley walked in. "Well done, Senior Auror Shacklebolt. That went quicker than I expected."
"Thank you, Director."
"Well Mr. Shacklebolt. It can be your choice. You may search the prisoner per your apparently stated wish, and place her in cell number five, or you can call in one of the other Aurors, and we can go have a beer at the Leakey Cauldron."
"Only if you buy, Director."
"Let's go. It's been a long day."
ooo CCC ooo
The old scribe is disappointed that the Order only reacted in a completely defensive manor.