Interlude: The Liberator's Tenth Letter
June 1st, 1997
Dear Minister Scrimgeour:
I am so sorry, sir, that I wasn't able to give you the right combination of clues as to where I was! I heard about the raid on Cupressus Apollonis's house; my parents were so outraged that they talked about it in front of me. Of course, my father noticed I was listening and gave me one of his dark glares—he believes he must intimidate me at all times, and now he's even right about that, while before this a reminder or two was enough—but he wasn't that serious about it. They are worried. They think that the Ministry has turned against Light wizards, and they may be next on the list of raids or arrests, for all they know.
Since Cupressus Apollonis did not specify what he was accused of in the papers, except child abuse, I don't know what clue you might have followed to him. Please, though, sir, don't worry about me. I am very nearly ready to leave this place. I think I may have been able to figure out where the Ministry is from here, given memories of an Apparition I remember my mother taking me on when I was very young. If I'm right, then I'll go west when I leave the house. And after that—well, I have magic. I have a wand, though I've rarely been allowed to use it. And since I'm leaving forever, I'll risk breaking into the cage where my mother usually keeps it.
So many risks are changing me. I feel like Princess Black, with the whole world open before me. But instead of my husband dying, it's my fear that's perished.
I trust you, sir. I know I can come to you and you'll grant me sanctuary. I would be a little awkward going to Harry, and I don't know where Hogwarts lies anyway. But I'll send you another letter in a few days, when I'm ready to leave.
No more clues, though. Please, sir, don't embarrass yourself for me! Such risks could cost you your office. The wizarding world needs you in power. Harry needs you in power. I need you in power. We all need you, so that we can survive the coming war.
A few days more, and all changes. I am so nervous, so excited, with my heart beating in my throat. A new spring is beginning for me, even though the world's spring is almost done.
Yours,
The Liberator.
