Chapter 16: Auror Designated Assistance
"Expulso!" Zelda yelled, sending out the spell towards Lucian who sidestepped out of the way. Zelda continued to send whatever she could towards Lucian who deflected every spell that came his way. Lucian moved gracefully as he fought against Zelda. With great speed, Lucian ducked under a stunning spell and conjured a flying arrow. The arrow soared and struck Zelda in her wand arm. Zelda screamed out in pain, dropping her wand and falling to her knees. Lucian huffed as two death eaters came from behind Zelda and lifted her up as she whimpered in pain. Lucian looked around to see Half of the people he had captured had portkeyed away. He pocketed his wand was slowly walked up to Zelda.
"What should he do with this one?" A death eater asked with a devilish grin. Lucian waved his hand over Zelda and stopped at a old looking locket around her neck. He smirked.
"We shall send a message," Lucian informed, activating Zelda's portkey locket. He then pulled out a small dagger and smiled at Zelda. "You will be the message," he said to Zelda. And then with one quick stroke, he deeply slit her throat. Blood began pouring from her open neck. "No more mercy." He said as Zelda gurgled on her blood. "Let her go!" The two death eaters released Zelda who disappeared within seconds.
Josh closed down the Slytherin journal he had been reading, and then tried to rub the tiredness out of his eyes. There was nothing mentioned in the two journals he had read about something called a Horcrux. He and Harry were in the common room but it was late. Harry was still looking over the other Journal he had. He was just about to give up and when turned the page and the first word was Horcrux.
"I've got something!" He blurted. Josh jumped up and made his way over to Harry, eager to learn what was so special about this word. However, as he reached a now baffled Harry, he saw a lot of the next couple of pages were scribbled out. "But it's all scribbled out," Harry said in disappointment. He turned the page to see the next excerpt, and read it aloud, "This kind of magic is a dark and evil kind of magic. This should not be allowed to be seen by anyone. I don't know why I wrote it down when he explained it to me but to do this is to go against nature. It is unnatural."
"Now, that is interesting," Josh commented sitting down. "Dark and evil magic. And Slughorn knows something about this?"
Harry slowly nodded. "Just when I thought Voldemort couldn't get any darker," he said, "But he was way more dark than we could ever imagine. Going against nature? That's too insane." Josh nodded in agreement when he suddenly felt something in the pit of his stomach. He looked out the window and saw a full moon high in the night sky. "What's up?" Harry asked when he felt Josh's tone change.
Josh shrugged. "I don't know," he said, and then turned to Harry. "When was the last time you heard from Sirius?"
"Before he went on assignment," Harry answered, "Why?"
Josh furrowed his brow. "Do you have your mirror on you?"
Harry nodded and reached into his coat pocket and pulled out his two way mirror. "Sirius?" He called as Josh leaned over to look into the Mirror, but there was no answer. "Sirius?" He called again, but then he heard muffled voices coming from the mirror. The two boys could only see darkness at first. A few seconds later, the voices became clearer.
"Send a message to Fulcrum. We need to get these people a Healer! Get them to the Refugee camps!" It was the voice of Sirius.
"What about Zelda!?" came another voice. Josh and Harry shared a look. Josh knew Zelda was Blaise's mother. Did something happen to her?
"We're taking her with us!" said Sirius. "We have to inform her father." Sirius's bruised and bloodied face finally appeared in the mirror as he saw the concerned faces of his two sons. "Harry? Josh? What's going on? Everything okay?"
"We should be asking you that," Josh responded, "They attacked didn't they." Sirius nodded. "I'm guessing it wasn't a win."
Sirius solemnly shook his head. "It was over before it even began," he told the two boys. "It was like the first attack, but this was somehow worse. A lot more people and Aurors died, and more were captured. We only got out because Remus changed into a werewolf. I know it's a horrible curse, but him turning into the wolf couldn't have come at a better time. I wouldn't be standing here if it wasn't for him...or Zelda."
"What happened to Zelda?" Harry asked, though he and Josh were sure they new the answer.
"She didn't make it," Sirius informed, "Some Romanian death eater killed her."
"Romanian?" Josh and Harry repeated in confusion.
Sirius nodded, "I think Voldemort is starting to recruit others outside the country. Plus, he said he was an old friend of Voldemort."
"Well that makes sense," Harry said. Josh and Sirius looked up at Harry questioningly. "When Tom was younger, he traveled, and he's been to Romania a couple of times. That's where Quirrell found him if I'm not mistaken."
"Sirius!" shouted a voice from the other side of the mirror. Sirius turned and nodded. "I have to go," he said to the two boys. "You two be safe."
"You too," Harry said, and Sirius disappeared from the mirror. He leaned back in his seat. "I feel useless staying in this school while there is fighting going on out there."
"I know you do," Josh said, "But it is not the best time right now. We've got other things to worry about right now." He then pointed to the journal Harry was still holding. "Like that memory you have to get from Slughorn and you've got to learn everything you can about Tom. Maybe find his weakness or whatever. Worry about that right now. I have to worry about who Cyrus has on the inside of our school and stop any other inside attacks or at least try to prevent them. Not only that. I have to find Rina."
Sirius pocketed his mirror that had been cracked during the attack and created a portkey with a certain destination in mind, standing right next to a whimpering Remus. "You know I should be taking him," Tonks said, appearing next to Sirius. "You are in no shape to be helping him right now. You need to see a Healer."
"I've done this many times before," Sirius smirked. "I'll be alright. I need you to see that everyone here makes it to the camp." Tonks reluctantly nodded and watched as Sirius and Remus teleported away. Tonks turned and began instructing the handful of Aurors to help out the villagers and take them to the ward protected camp between Hogsmeade and Hogwarts. She made a note to visit Remus in the morning to make sure he would be okay. Bring him some potions to help him feel better as well.
Tonks heard a nearby girl crying. She looked up to see a dark raven haired girl hugging her knees and crying into them. The girl reminded Tonks of Rina, her cousin and the girl she missed dearly. Rina had become a younger sister to Tonks, someone she could mentor and joke around with. She too felt guilty for letting Rina get kidnapped, wishing she could go back and fix things but knew that wasn't an option. All she could do was interrogate any captured death eaters on Cyrus or Xerina's whereabouts, but none of them delivered. She had no leads. All Tonks could do was pray that Rina was alright and holding her own. "We'll find you, Rina."
Meanwhile, Rina was sitting curled up on a plump chair she positioned next to a large window. Heavy taps struck the window as rain heavily fell from the sky. Since the moon was covered by the dark rain clouds, the outside was heavily dark and Rina could barely see the laps from the village that was far odd in the distance. She didn't know where she was or what village it was that sat in the distance. Her brother had yet to reveal any of that information and she doubted he would do so anytime soon. She didn't know what she could do. She had no wand, nor anything from her possessions. Her brother had gotten her new clothes to which she had no choice but to wear them. She was locked away in this room like some damsel in distress, which she hated. She felt too helpless just like when she was still was living with her father. But it felt more so. Tears began to stream down her face knowing that she was trapped, and she thought there was no way for her or any one of her new family members would be able to come rescue her.
Breaking News!
Two Heart Breaking Attacks Leading To A New Wizarding Ministration To Go Into Effect
Yesterday was a sorrowful day for the Wizarding World. The Dark Lord's Death Eaters led two attack on two magical villages of our country, Holyhead and Caerphilly. Holyhead was easily taken as there were no Aurors inside the village to protect its people. As for Caerphilly, a massive battle took place within the village that barely last an hour. The Death Eaters overwhelmed all the Aurors and Villagers who were
Wizards and Witches around the country! We have been notified of a new important ministration from the Ministry of Magic tailored by the Minister of Magic and the Wizengamot. They have created the Auror Designated Assistance or the ADA. Though it isn't actual Wizarding Law, it is a ministration where the Ministry, specifically the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, shall be allowed to recruit any Witch or Wizard into a new line of enforcement Aurors. Witches and Wizards must be seventeen years of age, and maybe be pulled of out Hogwarts to help The Ministry in the upcoming War with the Dark Lord, He Who Must Not Be Named.
Letters will be sent out to each eligible witch or wizard, ages seventeen and up, will have to sign forms of the recruitment agreement and then send them back to the Ministry. Failing to do so will result into a major fine to the Ministry and possibly a ticket to Azkaban. The Recruitment will have a random pull of any witch or wizard meaning that no one will be purposely picked, or so they say. If you are picked, you will receive a short training Auror training period on strategies, advanced spells, and how to work as a team. Most will be sent out on attacks of villages when the time comes while others will be chosen for other assignments such as Warding or being a On Site Healer.
When asked about this, Scrimgeour had these amazing and comforting words to say,
"Parents do not have to worry too much about our new Ministration. If you are seventeen years or older, you will be called upon to aid the Ministry. We will not interrupt your children's education. This service is more of a temporary leave. We have decided about a month an a half which could be made up over the summer. Or whenever they see fit. We can assure this will not burden them in any way nor will it affect whatever career path they have chosen. If any thing, it will give them the experience they will need in the real world. Trust in the Ministry. This is a huge honor to be serving and helping the Ministry any way one can. With this new Auror Designated Assistance and new strategic advantages, we will win this war! These are dark times, there is no denying. Our world has perhaps faced no greater threat than it does today. But I say this to our citizenry: We, ever your servants, will continue to defend your liberty and repel the forces that seek to take it from you! Your Ministry remains, strong!"
Scrimgeour has reassured us that everything will go smoothly and that this new program will help us win the war. We here at the Daily Prophet believe in the Minister and know that he is the one who will end the tyranny of the Dark Lord.
Continued on page 3.
Details on the Battle are continued on page 7.
"This is totally barbaric!" Hermione exclaimed, slamming the Daily Prophet on the table. Josh snatched it up and wanted to read about the details of the battle. Hermione, Josh, and all their friends were sitting huddled together at the Gryffindor table. This news was the big buzz among the students and Professors. "How can the Ministry think that this is going to solve their war problem? I mean, drafting young witches and wizards, even if they're still in school? What are they playing at?"
"Obviously this is a added ploy to get Harry and I to work for the Ministry," Josh commented as he was reading the paper. Daphne was next to him as well, trying to read the paper as well.
"You think so?" Harry said.
"Don't you remember what Scrimgeour told us," Josh said, looking up and sliding the paper towards Daphne and it was Tracey's turn to lean next to Daphne to read the paper. "One way or another, he told us. This is his way."
"It can't be," Ron spoke up, "Dumbledore would never allow it."
"It might not be up to Dumbledore," Tracey said, looking up from the paper. "He's no longer part of the Wizengamot. Any of us could be recruited."
"Not Harry," Draco said from behind a newspaper. He lowered it to see everyone looking at him. "He's not seventeen yet or did you all forget?" He put the paper back over his face. "His birthday is in July." he drawled out.
"He is the baby of the group," Tracey giggled. "Which leaves the rest of us who are all eligible to be recruited for this thing."
"I'm not seventeen yet either. Plus, it says here," Daphne began, still reading the paper. "That only one family member will be recruited at a time, but it will be random. It also says that you can volunteer. So it's possible that not all of us will be recruited. Only some of us."
"That's comforting," Ron said flatly, thinking how any of his brothers could be chosen as much as he could. He turned to Tracey. "I turn seventeen March 1st. Do you think the war will be over by then?" He asked hopeful.
"Oh, sweetie," Tracey apologetically smiled, caressing Ron's face. She shook her head. "No."
"I know it's not ideal," Harry began, "But we've been training ourselves for this. Josh created that battle area for us so we could be prepared. Not to mention all the other battles we've been through in the past."
"We have, but not everyone else," Hermione said, worriedly looking at all her other friends who didn't have the experience she and the others had. Josh looked at his immediate friends. He, Draco, Tracey, and Hermione were all eligible for this recruitment that was going to start soon. Ron and Daphne had a couple more months and Harry didn't turn seventeen till July. He looked around. All of the seventh years were definitely eligible for this draft. The younger class-men were lucky enough to stay out of it. He wondered how this Auror recruitment was going to affect the Wizarding world.
A newspaper was slammed on a table. "How did we let this happen!?" Molly screeched. "This is insane! How could this slip past you two!" She pointed at Tonks and Sirius in anger. "And you!" She glared over at her Husband who quickly looked down. At the moment, most of the Order had gathered around Grimmauld place to talk about the news of this Auror recruitment service that was about to be put into effect. Dumbledore and the professors, with the exception of McGonagall, weren't in attendance.
"Molly, we were just as surprised as you," Sirius spoke, "This literally came out of nowhere. It practically happened overnight." Tonks nodded in agreement.
"Well, we have to stop this," Sandra objected. "Protest it. They're going to be drafting seventeen year teenagers who will still be in school. She could only think of her son who was already at the age of seventeen.
They may be of age, but they're still children," McGonagall said, "Surely not everyone in the Wizarding world is going to like this?"
"It's already been passed," Arthur said, "And it'll be put into effect as soon as tomorrow. There's not much we can do at this point. The Minister, the Wizengamot, and the head of the Auror offices went right under the people's noses. I think they knew if they didn't, the people would immediately vote against it."
"So, what's going to happen?" Victor questioned, thinking about how his daughter could be drafted once she turned seventeen.
"Well," Sirius started clasping his hands together. "Letters will be sent out to all those who are eligible and they will have to fill out the forms and send them back to the ministry. Once all of the forms have been received, the Ministry will start the recruitment process. Letters will be sent out to those who have been chosen and will have to report to a training facility where the will go under a quick and rigorous Auror training process. They will do so under a highly trained Auror. So far, no Aurors have been assigned."
"And after training?" Molly asked.
Tonks and Sirius shared a glance. "They will be sent out into the field," Tonks answered, "To investigate or to capture Death Eaters."
"Oh Merlin," Molly cried, thinking about all of her boys who were old enough to be drafted into this Auror force. "Is there anyway we can stop this?"
"Unfortunately not," Sirius answered, "We can protest it, try to get many others on board. Maybe change some aspect of this recruitment program."
"Why are they even doing this?" McGonagall asked, "For what purpose?"
"It's because he's desperate," Victor answered, "They lost too many Aurors already. This seems like the only way for the Ministry to find its soldiers." Victor turned to Sirius. "How do I volunteer?"
"You're going to join them?" Sandra worriedly asked.
Victor nodded. "To Protect my daughters. I will."
A few days had passed. During breakfast, owls swooped in dropping letters in front of every student who was seventeen years or older. It turned out to be their registration forms for the Auror Assistance program. Letters landed upon Josh, Hermione, Tracey, Draco, and upon all of the seventh year students. Other students in sixth year such as Parvati, Dean, and Michael Corner had received letters of registration as well. The whole Hall had turned silent for a moment. Students slowly grabbed their letters to open them. Josh stared firmly down at his letter. This was wrong. Forcing teenagers to sign up for some Auror draft and forcing them to fight in a war wasn't right. The limit should have been raised or at least not register anyone who was still in Hogwarts. Josh thought about not signing it or turning it in, but what good would that do him. It would probably just get him into some kind of trouble.
"Well, open it," Ron suddenly. Josh looked up as small chatter riled back up around the hall. Draco and Tracey had yet to open their letters as well. Hermione on the other hand had opened her letter and was thoroughly reading the form with a quill in hand, ready to fill it out.
"You're already reading it?" Harry asked, not knowing when she had even opened the letter.
"I am not going to sign it without reading it first," Hermione answered, not looking up from the form. Once she was done, she began to fill it out.
"Well?" Tracey said to Hermione. "What does it say?"
"Basically what the Daily Prophet outlined," Hermione replied, "Only fill out if your seventeen or older. Only one family member of said immediate family may be recruited, though one could volunteer if they wanted too. But if you are the only heir to your family, you do not have to register, like Neville wouldn't have to register since it is only him since his grandmother is too old to register."
"But what about Draco?" Harry curiously asked. "Isn't he the heir."
Hermione nodded. "Yes, technically, but he still has a parents who could volunteer for him - "
Draco suddenly ripped open his letter. "My mum is not going to be forced to fight," he said, pulling out a quill and quickly filling out the form. Josh too thought about his mother. If he didn't register, than his mother would be forced to fight, but he could let that happen. Alphie had just been born and his mum needed him. Sirius was already apart of the Aurors, maybe Josh wouldn't be recruited at all even if he filled out this form. So there was nothing to worry about, right? With that thought, Josh opened the letter and began to fill out the form.
"But Tracey," Daphne spoke up. "Isn't she the heir as well."
Everyone turned to Tracey who was already filling out the form. She looked up at her friends who were staring at her. "I'm volunteering," Tracey said and then went back to filling out her registration form.
"Are you sure about this Trace?" Daphne worriedly asked.
Tracey nodded. "Ever since my parents were killed." She sternly looked up at Daphne who nodded. Her eyes turned to Ron's concerned eyes. Tracey quickly looked away. "I have to do this," she said quietly.
Ron placed his hand on hers. "I'm not going to stop you," he said. Tracey nodded and continued filling out the form.
"What else does that form say?" Harry asked. "Does it say anything about happening to you if you don't send in your form?"
"Just a penalty," Hermione answered as she was placing her form back into the envelope and resealing it up.
"What kind of penalty?" Ron asked, looking up from Tracey.
"Well," Hermione cleared her throat, "You will be fined of course, but it states that if you are unwilling, sentenced to Azkaban until the war is over."
"What!?" Everyone exclaimed, including students who were around them.
"That's ridiculous!" Daphne screeched. "That's unfair."
"It says we are all apart of the Wizarding World," Josh spoke up after having finished reading his form. "And that we are obligated to help and save it from darkness. That's why we must be willing to do this otherwise we will fail and lose the freedom we once had." It was pretty clever to Josh for the Minister to guilt people into helping the Ministry to become soldiers. He enclosed his form back into the envelope and reseal it. A random owl landed next to him as one landed next to Hermione. Other owls began to land next to students who have finished filling out their forms. Josh tied his to the owl which took off in an instant. "Now, we wait." He muttered and everyone watched the owls fly out of Hogwarts. Josh felt the hand of Daphne grab his and squeeze it. He looked over at her and gave her a reassuring smile. Josh no doubt knew that he was going to be chosen to go and fight in this first round of recruitment.
The next few days later, about fifteen Aurors were suddenly called into a conference room. Sirius had been sitting at his desk waiting to be called, but was surprised that his name wasn't called. Curious, he got up from his desk and entered the conference room as well. He noticed Pius was sitting at the table with a stack of papers. He noticed all the Aurors there were some of the best Aurors on the team, and he also noticed Eric Everheart was there as well. Sirius stood in the back of the room as everyone filed in, and soon, the meeting suddenly began.
"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen," Pius began. "You are probably wondering why it is that I called you in here. Well, I brought you all here because you all have been assigned to lead a new batch of Aurors. Your task will be to train them with our advanced magics and strategies. After training, those men and women are yours to take on missions and investigations. You are the leader of your group," he explained and then lifted the stack of papers. "I have here, your list of trainees and your new teammates. They are to do with what you will." He then began handing out the Aurors who then left the room one by one. Pius then stopped at Sirius, surprised to see him there.
"Auror Black," Pius greeted. "I don't recall summoning you to this meeting."
"Yes, sorry, but I wasn't sure if you were mistaken," Sirius replied, "You know I can be of use to you and the Ministry for this program."
"Not for this Sirius," Pius replied with the shake of the head, handing the last list to Everheart. "I don't doubt you are one of the best Aurors we have. You are, but your talents lie elsewhere." And with that, Pius left the room.
Sirius sighed heavily through his nose and was about to follow after Pius, but he was stopped by Everheart who pulled him back and shut the door. "It was me," he simply said. Sirius looked back questioningly. "I told him not to use you even though you were on the list of suggested Aurors to train the new recruits under some not so true comments."
Sirius glared at the American. "Why?" He demanded.
Everheart pointed his wand at the door sending a spell at the door. Sirius looked questioningly at the american. "I don't want them to hear us," Everheart said.
"Who the hell are you?" Sirius asked, still unsure of who this person really was.
"My name is the same," Everheart replied, "And I am an Auror from MACUSA. I wasn't really here to help. I was sent here to see if American needed to interfere, but so far, they won't. I was told to come back but I'm not going back. I am here to help, but I need your help."
"What do you want from me?"
"You spoke of a man from Romania," Everheart said, "Which means the Dark Lord is recruiting from outside the U.K.. So we should do the same."
"That's not a bad idea," Sirius said looking pensive. "But why me?"
"You are a member of the Order, are you not?" Everheart said, surprising Sirius. "I am a very good Auror. You have been in and out of these attacks, you have been in this war before. I don't trust this Ministry, but from what I've witnessed and have figured out. I trust you."
Sirius nodded. "Interesting," he said, "But why should I do this?"
"Because we both know this program is a desperate attempt to help," Everheart said, "This ministry is forcing men and woman who aren't born to be warriors to be warriors. With two weeks of training? We need trained fighters. Aurors from other countries who are willing to help out against a Dark Lord. MACUSA is out because they're selfish. Unless Voldemort attacks America, they are not getting involved. But we have many other countries to help and we can't start with the surrounding countries."
"Granted this would be better than forcing children to fight, but I wouldn't even know where to start," Sirius said.
"Start with Lief Williamson," Everheart stated. "He's an Ambassador here. You can start with him."
Another couple of days had passed as half the Wizarding world seemed on edge. They were either worried about this new Auror program or about any kind of attack from the Death Eaters. Hogwarts went on as usual as Josh and Tracey had used a bit of their free time to prepare for what was coming seeing as how they both knew they were going into this recruitment program. The two even offered others to join them, but were told that there was no way that they were going to be recruited or that this whole thing was just nonsense and that they wouldn't chose any students but mostly adults.
It was Friday morning and the Great Hall was filled with all students and professors. The chatter among the students was normal as ever. Breakfast as usual. Someone suddenly cleared their throat. "Attention students." Everyone looked up at the front of the hall to see Madam Pomfrey standing and addressing all the students. "As you know," she began "A war against Dark forces has begun, and since then, we have had many attacks which left many men, women, and children injured and left without a home. I have had a serious talk with the Headmaster and he thought it was a great idea. I have been tasked with helping out those injured parties and I am looking for volunteers on the weekends and during their free times to help those in need. We will be helping injured parties with their injuries and supplying those without homes with supplies of food, clothes, bedding and whatever they need to keep them comfortable. You will be learning a lot in Healing Magic among other things. If you are interested in becoming a Healer, than this could be great experience for you. With that said, if you are interested, come see me in my office and we can begin as soon as tomorrow."
"There you go," Tracey said, nudging Daphne in the elbow. "You can do that." Daphne, who wasn't listening, was more thinking about how Josh or Tracey had accepted their fates and didn't want them to leave for the next six weeks, leaving her behind. "Daphne?"
Daphne snapped out of her thoughts and turned to Tracey. "Hmm?"
"Didn't you hear what Madam Pomfrey was offering?" Tracey asked. "She was looking for volunteers for Healing Services for those affected by these attacks. It's on the job experience. Isn't that what you wanted to do?"
"Oh, right, yes," Daphne said feeling a bit uplifted about this news. While her friends were out doing what the Aurors would have them do, she would be learning to be a Healer while helping out those who were injured from the death eater attacks. She looked up at Josh who was chatting it up with Neville at the Gryffindor table.
Moments later about fifteen owls flew into the Great Hall and it suddenly went silent. Everyone looked up knowing that these were the letters towards the students who were to be chosen for the new Auror Designated Assistance. The students who had registered for this Auror program shuffled nervously hoping that they weren't going to be chosen to fight. And without warning, letters began to fall and drop in front of the students. The first student who received her letter began to cry as she grabbed it and ran out of the Great Hall. Some of the students bowed their heads.
Josh witnessed a few students among his year were chosen. Ernie McMillan, Parvati Patil, Michael Corner, and Dean Thomas were all chosen. Sitting close to Dean, Josh could see the somber look upon his face as his hand shook when he picked up the letter. He wasn't surprised when a letter dropped in front of Tracey who calmly took it and opened it up. The owls were nearly done and out the windows when a last owl suddenly flew in. Everyone watched in discomfort wondering who that letter belonged to. Everyone watched as the owl flew towards the Gryffindor table, flying passed most of the seventh years towards Josh and Hermione who happened to be sitting next to each other. The owl released the letter where it instantly soared down, landing on Josh's plate.
"No!" someone screeched. Josh didn't have to look up knowing that it was Daphne who screeched. He calmly grabbed the letter and opened it up:
Dear Joshua Black,
Congratulations, you have been chosen to fight for glory and for honor. To protect and serve your Wizarding Community. To help your common man. Since you have been chosen, you will be given the next couple of days to gather your things and bid your goodbyes. You are expected to attend you training on Monday. You are to meet you Auror instructor at the Ministry Monday morning as he and your new teammates will be portkeyed to a unknown location from our enemies. That is where you will participate in you Auror training for the next couple of weeks. At the end of the training, you and your team will receive their first assignment, and you will all go from there.
Good Luck with your future endeavors. We hope your help will benefit the Ministry in every way possible and we thank you for all your help in this Wizarding War.
"Like I had a choice," Josh murmured to himself.
"Well, what does it say?" Hermione curiously asked. Josh handed her the letter to let her read it. "Oh, I see." She said after reading the letter that was next taken by Ron and Harry.
"Only a couple of days to say your goodbyes?" Ron read aloud, "That's almost as if they think you won't be coming back."
"Don't worry," Josh assured, "You know me. I'll be coming back without a scratch."
"When have you ever come out of some kind of attack without a scratch?" Harry smirked.
Josh lightly snorted when Daphne tapped him on his shoulder and beckoned him to somewhere private to talk. As soon as the two teenagers where in an empty corridor, Daphne suddenly wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tightly. Josh hugged her back. "It's only a month and a half," he informed her. "I'll be back in no time."
Daphne released her boyfriend and sniffed. "Josh, this is different," she said.
"How will this be any different than all the fights we've been through?" Josh replied. Daphne could only shrug, but she was right. Josh was soon going to learn that this was going to be different than what he was used to. "Look, you don't have to worry about me. Aren't I good I magic? Haven't I survived everything thrown at me?" Daphne nodded thought she felt uneasy. She felt that something was different this time but she didn't know how she could explain it to Josh. "Tomorrow we will spend the entire day together with everyone else. We'll spend some alone time together and I'm leaving to spend Sunday with my family before I go to the Ministry. How's that sound?"
Daphne looked Josh into the eyes and smiled. "It sounds great." Josh smiled back and kissed his girlfriend.
The next day, Josh and his friends decided to ignore any schoolwork they had to spend the day together since he, Tracey, and Draco were all being sent to fight for the Ministry. Luckily, it was a Hogsmeade weekend and everyone, including all the others who were summoned by the Ministry, would be able to enjoy a bit of joy before being sent off. The group of friends would go to the Three Broomsticks for lunch, reminiscing about the early years and laughing about all the times they had gotten into minor troubles as eleven and twelve year olds. There were having fun until Josh noticed Tracey turn somber.
"Excuse me," She said as she left the pub. Ron was confused as he watched her leave.
Daphne was about to walk after her, but Josh stopped her. "I'll go," he said. He had a feeling what she was feeling sad about and decided to be the one to follow after her. Josh left the pub to find Tracey was sitting on a bench looking at her hands. He walked over to her and sat next to her. He was silent for a few moments before saying, "I miss him too."
Tracey sniffed. "I'm sorry," she apologized, wiping a tear from her eye. "I couldn't help think about him when we were talking about the old days. I miss him so much."
Josh wrapped his arm around Tracey. "It's okay to miss him," he told her. "It's natural. A day doesn't go by that I don't think about Blaise. He was my best mate. He had always been there for me even when we were mad at each other fourth year. If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't be here today."
Tracey nodded as tears began to flow from her eyes. "Maybe it's good he's gone," She sobbed, "Because he doesn't have to go through what we're having to go through right now." She then looked up at Josh. "You know, sometimes I do feel guilty."
"About what?"
"About moving on," She answered, "That maybe I've moved on from him too fast. Maybe I didn't mourn him long enough."
"I know Blaise wouldn't want that," Josh replied.
"How would you know?" Tracey scoffed.
Josh sighed. "You're going to think I'm crazy." But by Tracey's skeptical look, considering all the things that been happening, Josh continued, "When I passed out from magical exhaustion, I had this weird dream, though it felt real - " He then went on to explain how he was walking through the corridor, hearing the voices of his family and friends throughout the years. " - And when I finally reached the end of the corridor, I walked through a door and found myself in the Astronomy Tower. But it wasn't empty. Blaise was there." Tracey sniffed and sat quietly. "We spoke for a little bit and you did come up for a bit. He knew that you were going to be okay because he said you were in good hands. I knew he meant that Ron was going to do right by you. That it was good that you had moved on, because he wanted you to be happy. We all do. We all think you and Ron are great together. And I'm sure Blaise thinks so too."
Tracey nodded as fresh tears flowed down her cheeks and leaned into Josh's chest as he hugged her. She then pulled back. "I'm sorry," she apologized. "I've ruined our fun haven't I?"
Josh smiled yet shook his head. "Of course not," he replied. "Plus the day has yet to be over."
"Is everything alright?" Josh and Tracey looked up to see Ron concernedly looking their way.
"It is now," Tracey answered, beckoning for Ron to come to her. Ron smiled as Josh got up so the redhead could sit next to her. "Josh?" She called. Josh turned back to Tracey. "Thank you." Josh gave a nod and went back inside the pub to give the two some privacy.
The rest of the day went by too quickly for Josh's liking. He really enjoyed the day with his friends and wish it didn't have to end. Before he knew it, they were all entering the castle and were entering the Great Hall for dinner. It turned out, because of the students who were leaving, that Dumbledore had decided to give a feast. He knew the students were leaving tomorrow to see their families before reporting to the ministry. He decided to show them that they were important students and how indispensable they were to the school. All the tables were mixed with students from all houses because it didn't matter that night. Nothing else did.
After dinner Harry and Hermione turned in for the night, as did Draco. Tracey took the opportunity to whisk Ron away to somewhere private, leaving Josh and Daphne who took a little stroll through the castle. Once they were alone, Daphne suddenly magicked a blindfold around his eyes.
"Erm, Daphne, I can't see," Josh said, seeing black.
"That's the idea," Daphne laughed, grabbing a hold of her boyfriend's hand. "Come with me." She then began to lead Josh somewhere through the castle and up a few flight of stairs.
"Where are you taking me?" Josh asked.
"It's a surprise," Daphne said. Josh heard a door open and he was led into what he assumed was a classroom or something. The blindfold was removed from Josh's eyes. He blinked and squinted at the dim lit room. He soon took in his surroundings as he realized that he was in a room that had been dressed as a bedroom. There was a queen-sized four poster bed with emerald colored bedding. A small fireplace was on placed on the side of the room with a rug, a small table, and a few throw cushions sitting in front of it.
"What is this?" Josh asked as he and Daphne walked further into the room.
"Well, if you don't remember," she began, turning to her boyfriend. "I haven't given you your Christmas present." Josh thought back to Christmas before his cousin was kidnapped, before the attack, before his mother went into labor. He and Daphne were in his room. If none of the following things had happened, Daphne would have given him the curious present.
"Oh right," Josh innocently spoke. "I forgot."
Daphne smiled and leaned up to kiss Josh on the lips. She released the kiss and looked into Josh's eyes. "I love you, Joshua," she confirmed. "We may have had a rocky start and I didn't know it until now... But I've always had."
Josh genuinely smiled, his heart feeling up with warmth. "I love you too," he replied. "You are the light inside my darkness. I hope you know that."
Daphne smiled up at Josh and the two teens began to kiss. Daphne wrapped her arms around Josh's neck as he wrapped his arms around her waist. He kissed her deeply as if he wasn't going to come back. He knew it could be a possibility, whether it would be him staying to help fight, or not coming back to find Rina, or if he was going to... He couldn't think about that right now. Daphne was right in front of him and kissing. He pulled her as close as he could, wishing he had a bit more time to spend with her. Daphne released the kiss again. "Come here," she whispered, grabbing his hand and leading Josh over to the bed.
Josh seemed to make the connection. "Are you sure?" he asked. Daphne nodded touching his cheek and the two began to kiss deeply. It was at that moment, Daphne would give Josh the greatest gift of all. Her love, in which return, he would give her his.
In the early hour of the morning, Josh was sitting on the table in front of the fireplace with his arms leaning on his knees. His eyes bore into the fire as he waited patiently for the sun to rise. He heard a slight moan. Josh turned around to see his girlfriend had slightly moved but was otherwise sleeping peacefully. He was going off to a war while Daphne was going to be stuck here though he was happy to see her volunteer to help the helpless. He even lent her his Healing Books, but he just wasn't worried about his girlfriend. I was more worried about all his friends. Tracey and Draco were also called upon. He hoped Tracey wouldn't let her revenge overtake her which could be her downfall or how there could be prejudice towards Draco because he was a Malfoy and someone could let him die if it were to come to it. Even so, he knew his friends were going to be okay. They were brilliant and clever in their own ways.
"You're up early." Josh looked up to see his girlfriend standing next to him with the blanket wrapped all around her. "Everything okay?" She asked.
Josh gave a reassuring smile. "Of course," he answered. "You'll be alright without me?"
Daphne nodded. "I will be keeping busy helping Madam Pomfrey with the families that were hurt with the latest and upcoming attacks," she said, trying to sound upbeat. But something else was eating at her. She still felt uneasy ever since those letters of recruitment arrived. She couldn't help having this bad feeling that something terrible might happen and this time someone might not come back.
Josh noticed her unease. He could only place it as him leaving for this recruitment service. He didn't really want to go, but he knew he had to. He didn't really have a choice. He wished he could spend another day with her, but he knew he had to spend some time with his family before leaving.
A couple hours later, the students who were all called upon by the Ministry gathered classroom with a large fireplace where the would floo home. The students held small bags on their backs filled with clothes and small sentimental items as they wouldn't need anything else. The recruited students were saying goodbye to their friends and would go spend the day with their families before reporting to the Ministry. One by one, Josh said goodbye to his friends. He hugged Hermione, shook Ron's, Neville's, William's, and Nott's hands. He stopped at Harry and shook his hand.
"Wasn't it only a few months ago when you said you didn't want to be apart of this war," Harry said, "Now you're literally being dragged into it."
Josh gave a small smile. "Keep them Ready," He said to Harry. He glance over at Daphne who looked anxious. "Keep an eye on her for me?" Harry too glanced at Daphne and nodded. Josh then walked over to Daphne and Tracey. He turned to Tracey and gave her a hug. She was going to stay with Daphne for another day before going to the Ministry. Josh then turned to Daphne who hugged him tightly. "Are you alright?" Josh asked once he released her.
Daphne nodded. "I'll be okay," she answered. "Just come back to me."
"Always," Josh responded and deeply kissed her feeling Daphne shove something into his hand. Once he released the kiss, he looked down in his hands. It was a small pendant of a silver wolf head. He looked at his girlfriend in confusion.
"I charmed it," Daphne informed him. "It's not much, but I'd feel a lot better if you took it." Josh smiled and nodded. He kissed Daphne one more time before leaving through the fireplace and loosing his footing once he entered Grimmauld Place.
"Every time," Josh muttered on his knees. He stood up and tossed his bag onto a nearby chair. "Hello?" He called out. "Mum! Dad! Anyone home!?" There was a silence. Suddenly there were too pops and two figures appeared right in front of them. Josh recognized them as Kreacher and Tibby.
"Master Black is home," Kreacher announced. "How may I be of service?"
"How may we be of service," Tibby corrected, side glaring the older house elf.
"Have you seen my mother?" Josh asked.
"Young Mistress is bathing with young Master Alphard," Kreacher answered. "Shall I announce your arrival?" Josh nodded and Kreacher disappeared with a pop.
"Can I get you some tea, Joshua?" Tibby asked.
"Sure, that'd be nice," Josh responded. Tibby bowed and popped away as Josh sat down on the couch and waited for his mother and brother to be done bathing.
Ten minutes later, Josh was reading the Daily Prophet and drinking tea when his mother entered the room in a robe and with baby Alphie in her arms. "Oh, Josh," Sandra said with a relieved look. "Thank Merlin you're here."
"Hey, mum," Josh greeted, laying down the paper. "How's it going?"
"Here, take him," Sandra urged as she suddenly placed Alphie in Josh's arms. "I need a few minutes alone."
Before Josh could protest, his mother had already disappeared from the room. Josh looked down at his younger brother who was cooing. "Hello there, Alphie," he said. "How're things?" He smiled when the baby created a bubble with his mouth. It was nearly lunchtime when Josh realized his mother had been gone for hours. His brother had fallen asleep by then and he ordered Tibby to keep an eye on Alphie so Josh could check on his mother. He found her a minute later in her room, knocked out asleep. He smiled. Alphard must be keeping her up through the hours of the night, not letting her get sleep. He figured it was tough since Sirius was gone nearly most of the time. Josh closed the door, and let his mother sleep while he took care of Alphard.
It was lunchtime when Sirius and Tonks came home. The two entered and weren't too surprised to see Josh there already. "Hello, son," Sirius greeted, hugging his son.
"Dad," Josh said, releasing his father, and then hugged Tonks.
"Alphie!" Tonks cooed after hugging Josh and moving over to Alphie who was laying in a crib and had woken up once more. "Who's the best boy," she said in a baby voice.
Sirius and Josh sat down on separate chairs while Tonks playing with the baby. "Where's your mother?" Sirius asked.
"She's asleep," Josh simply answered, "I think Alphie is wearing her out."
"I bet," Sirius said with a worrisome expression and then looked at his second born. He hasn't been around much and things were about to get more tough once he started traveling. He turned to see his son curiously looking at him. "Where's Draco?"
"He wanted to spend the time with his mother," Josh answered. "Just the two of them."
Sirius nodded in understanding. "How about it? Are you ready?"
Josh shrugged. "Will I be?"
"Not really," Sirius replied. "Nobody ever is. War is all about expecting the unexpected." Josh nodded just as his mother entered the room, greeting her sons and husband.
Over the next for hours, Josh spent time with his family laughing and talking to one another about many things. Josh spent time with his brother, using magic to entertain the baby and laughing with the boy. Sirius gave tips on being an Auror as did his mother. She gave him tips on some advanced magic and even gave him a small very advanced magical book he had never seen before. As dinner rolled around, Draco, Narcissa, and the rest of the Tonks family arrived. It was nearly a perfect moment but Josh could not fully enjoy the moment as he would often stare at an empty chair at the table. A chair that was for his cousin who was kidnapped by her own brother. He didn't know how he was going to find her, but he knew that being out there will definitely be a start.
The very next morning, in the early hours. Josh and Draco were hugging their parents goodbye. They had to report to the Ministry to start their training for this War.
"This is ridiculous," Narcissa sniffed as she hugged her boy. "I just got you back, but now you're leaving me."
"Don't worry, mum. I'll be back. I promise," Draco assured, letting go of his mother.
"Be safe," Sandra said, hugging her son.
"Of course," Josh replied, releasing her and turning to hug Sirius.
"You'll be alright," Sirius told him. "You've fought a dragon and much more. This will be a cake walk to you."
Josh nodded and released his father. The clock chimed as Draco and Josh left Grimmauld place and made their way to the Ministry. The sun had yet to rise as the two young men jogged down the streets to find the magical entrance of the building. They were met with a few others who were entering the Ministry as well. As soon as Josh entered the Ministry, stumbling out of one of the fireplaces, he was stunned to see many witches and wizards in the lobby. They were standing around with bags over their shoulders, most likely there to report to the Auror Assistance. The people consisted of many ages from seventeen and up. Josh saw a man who looked to be as old as Dumbledore. Most of the people here looked confused and scared. Some looked angry and annoyed while a select few were calm, holding their heads high as if it was their duty.
Draco suddenly appeared next to him. "This isn't Auror Assistance," he commented. "This is an army. An untrained and unprepared army. Two weeks won't be enough." All Josh could do was nod because Draco was right. Sure, they all could do magic, but have they ever lived as a warrior. Seen the dangers head on? Been in a duel with a dark wizard? They were about to pretty soon and it wasn't going to be nice.