Hey everyone,
I'm not going to lie to you all. While this was one of my favorite stories to write while I was working on the PoA part of the content, I am just so apathetic to GoF that it takes away a lot of my excitement. Right now, I am more writing this for the development of the characters than the actual CR content, to be honest.
Don't hate me,

Venquine1990


Chapter 39
Halfway At The Start

3rd of November 1993
Great Hall, Hogwarts
Harry's POV

It was really quite the experience to hear the stories of how Aunt Lily and Professor Lupin as well as how Uncle Regulus and Professor Snape got together – as well as really relieving that mum kept his story to the barest minimum of details as that was apparently just embarrassing. But to hear about Aunt Rosie is shocking and worrying.
"She could be my aunt through the bond Uncle Regulus has with Professor Snape, but she could also be a horrible person who has been turned good by the MMB. Which is she? Is she going to change back into being the horrible person she was as a teen if the MMB is taken down? Or is Professor Snape going to get his sister back?"
These thoughts worry me, especially the thought of Aunt Rosie not being an actual Prince and then Grandpa Albus makes matters worse as he says: "It really isn't helped by the fact that your entire memory is just one big blank, now is it dear?" And all of us in the Gang as well as the Squad look at her in shocked horror.
"I remember that I sat under the Sorting Hat, did my exams, worked through my OWLs and NEWTs and that I graduated, but – you're right. The fact that I don't know which House I was Sorted into, how I studied for my exams, what scores I got in my OWLs or NEWTs or in what year I graduated, just doesn't help."

But then I remember something and ask: "But what about the Minister? Or Mr. Bagman?" Yet those that are from the doll house don't seem to take confidence out of this and Uncle Reg says: "There was definitely something between Cornelius and Sev's sis, but – at the time that was going on, that other Rosie had turned as spiteful as their mother.
She was in Fudge's life for all the bad reasons just as much as Sev's sis was in it for all the good reasons. Heck, she even had him under a Love Potion for a solid month just to break Sev's Rosie and make her miserable enough she'd quit falling in love again. Needless to say Sev didn't take kindly to that, but – well –."
"Shortly after that Pettigrew faked Reg's death and Sev was so distraught over that, neither of the two Rosie's could get any contact with him anymore. Our Rosie couldn't cheer him up and he practically cursed the other one into St. Mungo's. And trust me, Fudge and Bagman were rivals at the time, so him doing something to spite Fudge."
And the way that the man shrugs at this in the end makes me groan as I say: "So the only way to find out is to continue reading and hoping that Aunt Rosie's MMB breaking down will make her my real Aunt Rosie and not that witch." And the prisoners of the doll-house all nod, their faces proving they dislike this as much as I do.

At this I look at the woman in question and she smiles at me before she turns to Rosaline, Irma and Edena as well as their younger siblings and says: "Then I guess I just need to make sure I keep close to the six of you and that you all remind me of how happy being around you all made me in case I do turn out to be the worse one of the two."
And the fact that the woman doesn't let this chance for a negative outcome affect her like this seems to really reassure my mum and his fellow former prisoners. "Now that we've all recovered ourselves and have learned more about the true past and our returned loved ones, let us continue, shall we?" And we nod at Mrs. Malfoy as she starts her chapter.

The Dark Mark

And instantly every one of the adults seem to get why she decided to be the one to read this chapter. Yet I also remember something else and turn to Jeremy and Jason, who both nod at me, their gazes proving that they are well aware that the time for their stories revealed is approaching. I grimace at this and listen to the reading.

"Don't tell … it confiscated."

This makes Mrs. Weasley grimace and it's obvious to see that she is very much against this, but then dad says: "You might have big plans, but maybe you should put those down on paper. And I don't mean those order forms you had, I meant like a business plan. Where you plan to save the money, when to use it, how to increase profit.
Those are, after all, things any good shop owner will need to know alongside how to advertise their product, how to keep proper stock, how to beat their competition without losing face or their own morals, how to not scam customers with bad products or untruthful advertisement." Which makes the twins cringe in concern.

"And unless I'm mistaken or if this is a lie forged by the MMB –." Dad goes on and then turns to his brother as he says: "You were a master at that right from the tender age of twelve. You still got those skills, Reggie?" And my uncle does indeed nod, proving it's not a lie before dad turns back to the twins with a raised eyebrow.
The two nod and then turn to the younger Black brother and chorus as they ask: "Would you teach us, Regent Black sir?""It would be my pleasure, boys. But please know, I'm as stern in teaching as Minerva and as driven in getting results as Severus when brewing a new potion." The twins nod, Mrs. Weasley smiles and the reading goes on.

Mr. Weasley … to bed.

And while I really hoped they would have forgotten about it, do I turn red as the younger Sky twins, as we always called them, start to snicker and John says: "Sounds like someone just crashed from a sugar high wearing out." Before Edward turns to me and asks: "Sounds familiar, right Harry?" But I keep mum as Mrs. Malfoy reads on.

Hermione and … Wronski Feint…

Yet then I suddenly notice every Gryffindor in my year, bar Hermione and Leanne, grinning at me and Ron comes over to slap me on the back as he says: "Harry, mate, buddy, how on earth did you forget? You already pulled one off." Yet he regrets this instantly as every adult bar most of the teachers scream: "SAY WHAT?"
And dad snarls at him: "When?" Scaring Ron as he whimpers: "When we were in First. We had Flying lesson and Madam Hooch had to take Neville to the Hospital Wing for a broken wrist and Malfoy took his Remembrall and flew up and Harry followed him and Malfoy dropped it and then Harry caught it after a steep dive.
It's what made McGonagall appoint him as Seeker in the first place. Because he made that dive on a school broom and everyone knows –." But before he can continue his feared rant, does he notice that dad is no longer glaring at him but looking at me in wonder and I say: "For the record, I didn't even realize this was a Feint myself."
Before I focus on Malfoy, who is trying to hide his fear and guilt, which is obviously caused by the furious, disapproving glares aimed his way by his older and twin sister, behind an impassive mask. But then I notice his parents share a look and I think: "He'll be punished later." And I smirk as I listen to his mother's reading.

Somehow Oliver … you… Potter!"

"Guess you're not going to be playing Professional Quidditch." Mum shocks me as he says and instantly Oliver asks: "What? Why not? The dream –!" But at this mum says: "Exactly. Potters never go for the first profession they dream about. It just doesn't happen for some reason." Oliver grimaces at this and Mrs. Malfoy reads on.

Harry never … is urgent!"

And instantly every adult in the room turns fearful, even the Malfoys tense up in fear and concern hidden behind their masks and Mrs. Malfoy does a brilliant impression of the fear that would have probably sounded through Mr. Weasley's voice if this will actually happen. And I too feel this sense of fear as she reads on.

Harry sat … like gunfire.

This makes Mr. Bryce tense and he turns to the Minister, but the man shakes his head and says: "No Pureblood would bring such a weapon into a campsite." And Mr. Weasley goes on: "Half of them don't even know what a gun is." At which the Minister grimaces but nods and this calms Mr. Bryce down as Mrs. Malfoy reads on.

Loud jeering … burst of

But here the woman gasps and actually drops both the book and her mask, shock, horror and fright showing on her visage. Her husband takes the book from the ground and whisper reads: "strong green light."Before he follows his wife's example, his whole form trembling in horrified fear while all adults and older teens also gasp.
Yet while I feel confused, do I then notice that the Squad is looking grief stricken and Jeremy growls: "The curse that took aunt Rosie. That green light." And this instantly reminds me of something as well. A green light that flashed before my eyes the many times I dreamed of Halloween night. This fact horrifies me.
"I – I – I'm sorry, but I – I – I can't – I can't read this. That – that horrible – magic being used in a campsite full of – of – of innocent kids? I just – I just can't." Mrs. Malfoy whimpers, yet no one seems to disagree with her and then Mr. Bryce walks over, lies an understanding hand on her shoulder and then takes the book from the floor.
"I lost so many during the war and saw so much death on the battlefield, not to mention that curse is apparently meant to take my life as well. I got this, lass." He roughly tells the sophisticated lady who softly squeezes his hand in gratitude before he goes back to his seat and ruffles through the book before he starts to read.

A crowd … grew louder.

And while the man is really able to bring the horror of this all to us through his voice and the tone with which he reads, do I also notice how this is really negatively affecting a lot of our parents. Especially Mr. and Mr. Prewett, Mrs. Weasley's brothers, seem to be affected the worst as they are trembling and have their eyes tightly closed.
"Mr. Bryce, just one second." Roseline then interrupts the man and she and Rosemary turn to where the Prewett brothers are seated and softly wave their hands up and down. This causes for gorgeous bits of lavender and jasmine to grow from the table in front of the two and both men happily take in their scents before sighing in relief.
They smile at the girls and Rosaline says: "If anyone else needs help to calm down, just let us know." Yet at this I turn to them worriedly and ask: "What about you yourself, Rosa? I mean, seeing the future Aunt Rosie?" At this the young woman turns dark with pain, but she says: "Later, Harry, later." I nod and Mr. Bryce reads on.

The floating … and children.

"That is just lower than low. These people are already being exploited, are having their minds wiped several times a day and now they get tortured and used as playthings as well? I – I just – I can't even bring into words how disgusted I feel right now. I really just can't." Isaac growls in utter fury and we all nod as Mr. Bryce reads on.

One of … really sick…"

Yet then Irma gasps as suddenly the file she still has with her starts to glow, indicating that she needs to read another note. She takes it out and whitens, yet seems to regain herself as she says: "That, in our last, was a common occurrence." Which shocks, horrifies and disgusts everyone before Mr. Bryce grunts in disgust and reads on.

Hermione and … this out!"

"One, good on you for wanting to help. Two, thank you for telling the kids to stay out of it. But three, I would have preferred if one of you, whether it be you, Bill, Charlie or Percy, had stayed with them." Mrs. Longbottom tells Mr. Weasley, with Mrs. Weasley nodding in agreement and Mr. Weasley admits to this as Mr. Bryce reads on.

Bill, Charlie … family fall.

This makes Jeremy grimace and he says: "If I had been there, I could have just blown those poor Muggles to safety." But to this mum pulls him close and growls: "Eleven, fourteen or twenty-seven, I don't want you anywhere near those monsters." Which makes my older brother wince and mutter an apology as Mr. Bryce reads on.

The colored … night air.

This makes the Prewett twins push their faces close to the lavender and the jasmine and Mrs. Weasley looks at her family, all of them nodding at her before she goes to sit between her brothers. And both men seem to draw great amounts of comfort out of having their younger sister between them as Mr. Bryce grimaces and reads on.

Harry felt … stupid – Lumos!"

This makes most of the students that are underage gasp, but while a lot of them, Hermione included, turn to the Minister in shocked fright, does the man shake his head and say: "This is considered an exceptional circumstance. The Restriction does have clauses on situations like these." This relieves my friend as Mr. Bryce reads on.

She illuminated … utterly relaxed.

This instantly makes his sisters turn to him in disgust and Elena growls: "Only someone who enjoys the pain of others – which you proved to do last book – would be relaxed in such a horrible situation." And she angrily goes to sit with Uncle Regulus who was sitting on her other side before. Malfoy winces at this and Mr. Bryce reads on.

His arms … would you?"

Which only further angers both his sisters and Elena stands up as she says: "In order to preserve the fragile bond I still have with my family, I will now excuse myself. If I stay, I know I will do something I might regret." And the way she words this makes Malfoy look at her in horrified fear, yet then Isaac sighs and says:
"Come on, Elena. You've been missing out the last few days and I just didn't want to say anything as I thought Hogwarts made things better." To which the Ice Elemental snaps: "Hogwarts does, my book-family is another story." And Isaac nods before he, Elisa, Elena and Joshua all leave the Hall. And Mr. Bryce whistles at this before he reads on.

He nodded … a laugh."

"I really don't like the sound of this." Regulus growls and he turns to Mr. Malfoy as he says: "It's true that you actually got in trouble with Albus, because you joined Voldemort as a spy, but this – it sounds as if –." And Mr. Malfoy sighs and says: "As if I believed myself a true Death Eater and taught Draco this with pride. I did."
Which reminds me of something I found out in one of the last chapters of the last book and I say: "It's been some time since I used my ability. I can try to give you back your real mark now, if you want." The man looks shocked and I say: "It's a form of shadow magic, remember? The mark you think is yours that is on your left arm."
And while the man keeps looking shocked, do I move over and pull up his sleeve, sensing the shadow qualities of the magic that is stuck to the man's arm and I turn from it to his other arm and say: "I'll need both of your arms exposed for this, Mr. Malfoy." And with a hopeful, yet disbelieving look does the man follow my instructions.

He then lies both arms, inside up, onto the table and I smile at him at this before moving to stand on the other side of the table. I station my hands above each of his arms, my left above his right and his left under my right and then start to make mirror moves with each, focusing on the covered and the blank bit of skin.
And while I open and close my left hand while pushing my hand down every time I open it, do I close and open my right while closing my hand every time I pull it up. And little by little do I see the dark shadow fading from the left arm and do I spot several shadows, all colored different shades of black and grey, appear on the right.
Mr. and Mrs. Malfoy gasp as they see this, but when the snake-like mark on the left is almost gone, do I suddenly flinch as I feel a form of magic trying to keep it attached to the man's arm; a dark form of magic I have never felt before. I glare and growl at this and grab the man's arm, tightening my grip exactly where his mark is.

I then turn to Irma and the girl nods, sliding a goblet of water over to where I am. I then send an apologetic look at the Malfoy Lord before pulling my hand away, my nails scraping over his skin and when I pull my hand up, does a thin string of dark magic appear between my hand and his arm. And a sharp pull breaks it loose from him.
I then instantly move my hand over to the goblet and slam my hand on top of it, dumping the dark magic into the water and the second I pull my hand away, the water now dark with the magic that swirls within, does Jeffrey slash his left arm over his right, causing for a small disk of swirling wind to shoot from his hand and it instantly covers the goblet, trapping the dark magic within. I sigh in relief and focus back on the other arm.

And to my relief, do I sense that the mark is almost completely back, it just seems to need some kind of positive boost. I look up, knowing this is the man's wand arm and ask: "Can you conjure a Patronus? If your real mark senses the light that comes from it appearing, it will fully settle itself back where it belongs."
The man looks shocked, but then smirks and says: "Seeing what you just did for me, Mr. Potter." And he stands up, pulling his wand out of his cane and aiming it just over my shoulder as he strongly chants: "Expecto Patronum!" And a regal looking horse pulses out of the man's wand and prances around the table.
The man looks shocked and hums as he says: "Looks like the MMB being broken has changed my Patronus.""More like changed it back to its original form, old pal." Uncle Regulus smirks at the man before he asks: "What was it after it was changed?" To which Mr. Malfoy shrugs and asks: "What else? A snake, of course."
At this the elder Sky twins shake their heads and one of them says: "So you're saying.""That Pettigrew can create all these crazy fake memories.""But he can't make someone like Mr. Malfoy." "Have a more imaginative Patronus?""How typical." And while Mr. Malfoy sends them a fake glare does Mr. Bryce read on.

"Hermione's a … you are."

"Wait, what is that?" Uncle Regulus suddenly asks and we all turn to him in confusion as he asks: "That nickname? What is that? Why do you call Hermione that?" And Malfoy looks shocked as he says: "To insult her. Because she's not a Pureblood." Which makes my uncle send him a disbelieving look and he says:
"If that's your intention, you have one sad imagination skill, little cousin. You really couldn't come up with a better insulting term?" But then Mr. Weasley says: "Regulus, we all thought the term Mudblood was the regular insult for Muggleborns. That it's what Death Eaters and Dark Wizards call Muggles and Muggleborns."
Which shocks all of those that were locked up and then the Prewett twins say: "Guess Pettigrew really did waste all of his imaginative skill on the memory part of the MMB." And while Ron, Hermione and I share a shocked look at the fact that we have been feeling insulted over a fake slight, does Mr. Bryce shake his head and read on.

"You watch … Muggle parentage.

"Or better said, a term created by a really lame, yet also crazy dangerous wizard." Uncle Regulus mutters and his partner asks: "What did Death Eaters call Muggleborns?" And the man shrugs and says: "Just that. They just put all of their hatred in their voices when speaking of them." Professor Snape nods and Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Never mind … I, Potter?"

This again makes Uncle Regulus send Malfoy, who I now realize is related to me through his mother and my father being cousins, another unimpressed look and he asks: "Subtlety really isn't your forte, is it little cousin?" And while Malfoy valiantly tries to hide his tinged cheeks behind his usual mask, does Mr. Bryce read on.

"Oh come … Ron hotly.

"I won't be." Mr. Malfoy then sneers, his face still aimed for the new mark that is now back on his right arm and he goes on: "I – I don't know what it is about this mark, but – it makes me hate every memory I have of when I believed myself one of – them." And the venom that sounds through his voice astounds us all.
"You never liked what you had to do. You were determined and didn't regret it when Albus scolded you for going to spy on them, but while you had your morals on straight and while you protected a lot of us and others, did you grow to hate it more and more as time went on. Cissa, Draco and Elisa were your only medicine, after a while."
Regulus gently tells the man and Mr. Malfoy nods as he growls: "That sure sounds like I feel right now." And then we all get shocked as suddenly Elena's voice sounds, none of us having realized that she, Elisa, Isaac and Joshua returned and she says: "Then don't return to them. Stay with us. Be our father, not that monster."
And while we are all shocked at the fact that none of us noticed how she and her sister had gone to stand behind the man, does Lucius turn to his eldest daughter and give her a solemn nod. His children smile at this and both happily go to sit on either side of him while Isaac and Joshua return to Hermione as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Well, with … said Harry.

At this mum turns to all of us and asks: "Do any of you even speak one word out of English?" And while Malfoy nods, do the rest of us all shrug in embarrassment and dad says: "Guess we'll need to add some language classes into our schedule for when we head to the EEM." And the other parents nod as Mr. Bryce nods.

"Fred and … my wand!"

This really worries almost the entire hall, but then Irma says: "You know, this would have been the perfect chance for you to start using your Shadow Abilities again." But I shake my head and say: "It wouldn't. People fear the dark and if they saw me use Shadows, they'd mark me a Dark Wizard quicker than I can snap my fingers.
Not to mention the fear induced by those – bastards – would make them react even more violently and irrationally. They might just sentence me to the Kiss, just out of their sense of fear." And while I can see some people want to object, do I also spot most of the Ministerial members cringe, proving me right as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"You're kidding … very vulnerable.

"Because you didn't feel safe using your actual powers." Jeremy grimaces and I sigh as I say: "Not to mention, in that world I probably haven't trained since last summer. Who knows how strong my powers are in that world? If they're still strong enough to be considered a proper protection." At which Mr. Bryce grimaces as he reads.

A rustling … her back.

"What is her problem?" Rosaline asks in concern and Mr. Crouch says the worst thing possible. "It would seem that she is breaking my orders. I can only imagine that I told her to remain in the tent and now she -." But he can't get further as the girl shrieks: "Have you lost it? Those things are being set on fire all over the place? How could you do that to her?
Did you want to get rid of her, but not do it yourself? Are you that disgraceful to your own staff? How could you do such a horribly disloyal thing to someone so dedicated to you? Didn't you say you have specific needs for her? Why endanger her like that then? Never heard of employment safety? This isn't that!" And as she calms down, do I read on.

"There is … about it?"

Here I notice Isaac turning to Lupin and he says: "I remember you saying something about a give and take lifestyle, about balance of magic." At this Lupin nods, but then Isaac glares and says: "What about a balance in respect? Cause it sounds like that balance is way one-sided." And the professor winces as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Well, the … bossed around…"

This changes Isaac's direction of where he's glaring and Jeremy turns to his mother as he asks: "Do we own House-Elves?" And when Regulus nods, does he say: "Then I guess we will be using those to learn about all this. About what's okay and what can be made better." At which his mother nods in acceptance as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"It's people … lazy to –"

But at this Iris glares at Hermione and says: "Don't blame this on my brother. My family obviously doesn't own any House-Elves, so it's not them you should be angry with. Besides, you only just learned of House-elves. Don't judge until you know all there is to know." And while this shocks my friend, does Mr. Bryce read on.

Another loud … they were.

This makes Mr. and Mrs. Granger turn really concerned and then Joshua asks: "Herms, do you trust me?" And while the nickname shocks her, does Hermione nod at him and the look Joshua sends me says everything. I take a deep breath and nod at him, ready to follow through with his plan, even if he doesn't tell me.
And while half the hall gasps when Joshua uses his power to throw a large, sharp knife his sister's way, do I focus on the girl and push my hand, palm flat and aimed at the floor, down with power. And before she can do more than gasp in fright, does her shadow swallow her, making her vanish in the shadow underneath her seat.

Everyone looks at this shocked and while Joshua makes sure to halt the knife in mid air behind his sister's seat, do I then fist my hand and push it back up. And Hermione, her hair looking slightly frazzled as if she ran a long distance, comes back out of the shadow. The girl shakes her head and I sigh relieved as I say:
"You were right, Joshua. Even if I hadn't trained these last few days, I still would have been able to do that for her if necessary. My natural gift is still going strong.""Tell me something I don't know. I didn't believe you the minute you worried about your training and knew you needed someone to give you a boost of confidence."
Yet at this his mother slaps him over the back of his head and says: "It was good of you that you wanted to help your friend, but you should have used a spoon, not such a horrible knife. Apologize, young man." And while I feel guilty in being part of this all, does Joshua turn red and apologize to his sister as Mr. Bryce reads on.

They set … the campsite.

"And that right there proves that the MMB can and is affecting the Goblins as well. Had it not, they would have been worrying for the powerful and influential families and with that vaults they could be losing right there and then. They'd be armed and trying to aid the Ministry." Uncle Regulus growls and Mr. Bryce reads on.

Farther still … very loudly.

This makes Aunt Lily grimace and she says: "I am glad that it's already been established that you're unaffected by them, but – I do worry for Ron. We didn't get a description of how he responded when he saw the true form of the Veelas at the match." And while this makes all of House Weasley look at the boy, does Mr. Bryce read on.

"I pull … reach Jupiter?"

At this Aunt Lily sighs relieved and says: "Good, you're unaffected too. You're still coherent and strong of will enough to speak properly, even if you talk Veela-induced nonsense. Though I do think that will happen every time you encounter Veela." And while this makes Ron turn red, do his parents sigh relieved as the reading goes on.

"Honestly!" said … and strained.

At this the man in question winces and instantly Madam Bones groans: "Ludo, not again. Please, tell me not again. Please, tell me you didn't gamble when you are actually in debt with someone again. Oh, for the love of Merlin, Ludo." She ends as Mr. Bagman is sending her a guilty smile and Mr. Bryce shakes his head as he reads on.

"Who's that … Hermione, frowning.

"He never is when he has financial problems, which I really thought –." Madam Bones wants to rant, but then Rosaline snaps: "Stop it! Reading of all this is hurting Aunt Rosie something terrible. Your words on him and his gambling problem is making it worse." And to my shock, do I notice the entire bouquet she conjured.
Irma has also emptied an entire can of water and Edena's hands are emitting the heat of an actual electrical fireplace. This shocks the two in question silent and when the three Elementals are done, are there tears in Aunt Rosie's eyes as she looks up and says: "I don't know what you did, but it broke my heart when you did.
And yet, it wasn't you that your wrong actions affected worst. It wasn't something that happened to you in response to this gambling mistake that hurt me, that broke me." And she turns to the Minister as she says: "It was you, Minister. I – I just – I can't remember – how." And while this worries Fudge, does Mr. Bryce ask:
"Should I continue?" To which Rosaline worriedly ask: "Does the story continue about Mr. Bagman?" But the man shakes his head and says: "Just about his Quidditch career. After that it goes back to the kids themselves." At which Aunt Rosie sighs relieved and says: "I'm feeling better. Continue, Mr. Bryce." And Mr. Bryce complies.

"He was … on him."

"Oh trust me, Arthur." Uncle Reg then shocks us as he grins and says: "I know plenty of dirt that can make you beat Lucius on a daily basis for a month straight – on a conversational level, of course." He says at the end and yet everyone is still looking at him shocked. The younger brother of my dad shrugs and says:
"What? The best way to get this dumb rivalry out of the way and have adults behave like adults again is give them a more socially acceptable form of battling and arguing. Give them a reason to shut the other up and make sure you keep them from wanting to draw the wand on the other. I learned it growing up with these three."
And he motions for his own husband as well as both my parents and Hermione mutters: "I can actually see how he managed to make this whole group give up on their five-year old feuding and fighting and become rival friends and whatnot." And the rest of us all nod, while Aunt Lily and the Prewett twins smile at Uncle Reg and Mr. Bryce reads on.

"That'd wipe … they just –"

Here Irma again pulls up her file and pulls out the latest small note that pops up as she reads: "It's part of a problem that really expanded in my Fifth and made the horrors of Seventh easier for those bastards to accomplish." She looks up at this and says: "The writing is really sloppy. Harry hated having to write this down."
This makes most of those working at the Ministry share worried looks and Uncle Reg growls: "Sounds like another something caused by the MMB. It sounds like the corruption, that is usually in the underbelly of every Ministry worldwide, has been allowed to come to the forefront." And the workers wince as Mr. Bryce reads on.

But she … called Harry.

At this, before anyone can reprimand me, do I shake my head and mutter: "I never should have decided to hide my powers. If I had trained them, I could have learned to sense intentions by that point. Then I could have used the forest shadows to sense if that person was friend or foe." At which the Minister asks:
"You – you can – you can do that?" And I answer: "It's an inherited gift that is part of any Elemental's set of gifts. Though it takes tons of training for any and every Elemental to become capable of doing so. I was able to do it, but then stopped training and the wards of Hogwarts made it harder to do." I then turn to Ron and frown as I say:
"I'm sorry, Ron. If I hadn't stopped training and if the wards didn't do what they did –." But to this Mr. Weasley stops me and says: "You wouldn't have known, Harry. In the last three years, Pettigrew has done nothing to make you suspicious of him or make you want to do so." And I smile at him in gratitude as Mr. Bryce reads on.

There was… spell. "MORSMORDRE!"

Which makes Mrs. Weasley, Aunt Lily and several female teachers as well as older female students scream in fright, proving this statement is something they remember from the war. At this I frown and I stand up as I ask: "Mr. Bryce, can you please put the book down?" And the man seems to know why as he nods and does as asked.
I walk over and repeat the same performance as what I did at the end of the first chapter, which makes a lot of students and Professor Sprout sigh in utter relief. And when I feel sure that the majority of their fear, horror, concern and fright has been absorbed by the book, do I move back to my seat and does Mr. Bryce take back the book.

And something … him backward.

"That's a bit dangerous, don't you think? Grabbing someone by their collar? What if they wore something skin-tight? You could choke them if you did that, you know?" Elisa asks the girl and she shrieks: "That's what you worry about? What about that Mark?" And Elisa glances at me, making me smirk as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"What's the … the clearing.

And instantly I know that even what I did earlier wasn't enough to properly do the trick and instantly every mother in the room turns onto the members of the Ministry and shout as one: "HAVE YOU LOT BLOODY LOST IT?" Making said members, and the teachers sitting near them, shrink back in their seats with a cringe.
"WHAT HAPPENED TO ASK FIRST, CAST SECOND? WHAT WERE YOU THINKING? YOU WERE BEING SO BLOODY CAREFUL WITH THOSE MONSTERS BEFORE, BUT YOU DARE TO CURSE AT RANDOM WITHOUT EVEN SEEING THAT YOU'RE AIMING WANDS AT INNOCENT KIDS? REALLY?"
Mrs. Weasley shouts and mum is next as he shouts: "YOU LOT ARE SO BLOODY LUCKY THAT YOU ONLY CAST STUPEFIES AND THAT MY SON DUCKED AWAY OR I COULD SUE THE LOT OF YOU OUT OF A JOB AND THE BETTER PART OF YOUR VAULT MONEY! AND YOU KNOW I HAVE THAT RIGHT!"
This shocks me and then Aunt Lily screams: "I CAN ACCEPT THAT THE MMB IS MAKING YOU FORGET STUFF AND WHATNOT, BUT THIS IS JUST UNACCEPTABLE! THIS IS DANGEROUS AND I REALLY HOPE SOME OF YOU ACTUALLY HIT EACH OTHER! WOULD SERVE YOU RIGHT!"
And before anyone else can go on, does Mr. Bryce say: "Even the rookies I worked with during the war weren't stupid enough to aim their guns if they had a partner in their point of target." And the fact that he just made Muggles sound smarter is like the ultimate burn for these workers, at which the ladies calm down and the man reads on.

Raising his … my son!"

This calms the last of the concerns and the anger out of the ladies and Mrs. Weasley smirks as she says: "Good, at least my husband has enough sense to keep his head in a situation like this." And while I notice Mss. Jorkins glare at her in disbelief, does she seem to feel too embarrassed to say anything as Mr. Bryce reads on.

Harry's hair … with rage.

Yet instantly dad pulls me close and glares at the man in question as he growls: "You better not, Crouch. You had an alibi back when you arrested me, the fact that it was the end of the war and you wanted peace restored, but don't – you – dare – pull that crap on my son." And yet Mr. Crouch glares back as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Which of … the crime!"

"Crouch, I swear on the bond I have with my mate, I will make your life miserable if this chapter ends with my son –." But then I say: "Dad, he got stopped. I wouldn't have been at Hogwarts for this Goblet of Fire stuff if he wasn't." And dad sighs in relief, yet also pulls me even closer in concern before Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Barty," whispered … summoned, missy -"

"You're starting to sound like a bloody Nazi, lad." Mr. Bryce growls, glaring at Mr. Crouch before he goes on: "They didn't care for age, experience or anything of the like either. If someone was a gypsy, yew, invalid or otherwise not up to their standards, they were guilty – and were often sentenced to death in horrifying ways."
"I AM NOTHING –!" Mr. Crouch wants to shout, but Mr. Bryce holds up the book and then motions for my dad as he says: "Based on this, you're not doing a good job proving me wrong. But, until we're done with the book, I'll give you the chance to. Try me." And while Mr. Crouch splutters, does Mr. Bryce calmly read on.

But none … got them…

This again draws all of the attention to the lad and he says: "Okay, I really hope that dad will behave better than he did when he was introduced, but considering how this is happening too often to be a coincidence, do I think I'm going to get my dad sometime next chapter." At which other Badgers nod and Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Amos, be … was Winky.

Instantly Ron, Hermione and I share a shocked look and I mutter: "That can't be a coincidence." And Ron says: "Not if you take what happened earlier into account.""When we spotted Winky struggling to get away.""ARE YOU –?" Mr. Crouch tries to shout, but instantly Hermione shouts back: "OF COURSE NOT!"
Shocking the man and she shrieks: "The voice was nothing like Winky's. There was someone else! Someone with her who cast that spell!" And I glare as I say: "And for some reason I feel like this has to do with what you told us before. About that specific use and those specific needs." And Mr. Crouch grimaces as Mr. Bryce reads on.

Mr. Crouch … else there."

Yet at this I notice Ron look at me with a frown and he whispers: "There are plenty of ways – that wizards can use to hide themselves." And instantly I realize what he means and turn to Mr. Crouch as I ask: "Mr. Crouch, you – you don't have an – an Invisibility Cloak, do you?" And the man whitens as Mr. Bryce reads on.

But Mr. … a wand."

And while some people around me look offended by this and while Professor Lupin winces at this, do I notice those that had been imprisoned looking confused and I mutter: "Looks like that was a law brought into life by the MMB – if it even exists in the code in the first place." And the former prisoners nod as Mr. Bryce reads on.

Just then … gulping gargoyles!"

And at these words does Hermione gasp and she mutters: "The – the – the empty seat! It – it was right behind Harry. And – and Mr. Crouch has an Invisibility Cloak!" And instantly Madam Bones turns her wand on the man and growls: "What are you hiding, Barty? What are you hiding –." Only to get shocked by my father.
"I, SIRIUS ORION BLACK, HEREBY LIE A BLOOD FEUD ON THE MOST NOBLE AND MOST ANCIENT HOUSE OF CROUCH FOR ENDANGERING THE WIZARDING WORLD AND A DOUBLE BREACH OF MAGICAL LAW! SO I HAVE STATED, SO SHALL IT BE DONE!" The man shouts, raging in fury.
Everyone looks at the man in shock and he growls: "I just remembered. The minute everything Harry, Ron and Hermione said fell into place I remembered. Just before your precious Junior died in Azkaban – you and your wife visited him in his cell. It wasn't Junior that died there, was it Crouch? It was your already sick wife?"

And the trembling, the whimpering and the white face of the man says everything, everyone else shocked beyond words and Minister Fudge asks: "Crouch, how could you? What on Earth? Why would you? He was –." But then he strangely enough turns to Mr. and Mrs. Longbottom and the two nod as Mrs. Longbottom says:
"He was there." She then glares at the man herself and snaps: "And Crouchy over there can be glad that Sirius already cursed him with a Blood Feud or I would have done it for him." But to this the man shouts: "I couldn't not do it! It was her dying wish! It was even in her private will! I had to comply!" Yet at this I ask:
"And after you freed him, what did you do? Did you try to make him see the error of his ways? Give him a chance to become a better person?" And the way that the man winces proves me he didn't. Instantly Madam Bones wants to stand up, but then I notice something astounding. Irma has another note in her hand.

"Well done, I wish I was as great as you are right now back then. But if you continue, you will ruin the entire plot. At least now, you know." And the fact that she reads this astounds us all and I sigh as I say: "So that servant Power was talking about is a Death Eater. At least now we know a little more of what we're up against."
But this makes all of the adults turn grim and dad turns to grandpa as he says: "Neither Severus nor Lucius are Death Eaters. Make sure that, before Christmas, every ward against dark wizards and bastards with hurtful intentions are up and at full power. This – will not – happen." And Grandpa nods as Mr. Bryce reads on.

Bagman had … terrified sobs.

"She realized that she had lost that bastard that escaped Crouch's grasp and had probably been ordered to watch him. I can only imagine that's why she was up there at the Cup and why she was struggling so much before. That bastard wanted to join those other bastards and she knew Crouch Senior would hate it if that happened."
Dad growls, having me in his lap by now even though I'm sure he's not even aware of this and he turns to Crouch as he says: "She was trying to save your face, your hyde and your reputation. If you treat her the way you treated me when you threw me in there, that feud will be the least of your worries." At which Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Elf!" said … Magical Creatures!"

"And that should matter to an employee under the service of another for what reason?" Isaac asks, even if Mr. Diggory isn't even present now and Joshua goes on: "Not to mention, who gave you the same duties as an Auror? Why didn't you get Madam Bones before you started interrogating her?" To which Cedric groans and says:
"Because, when it comes to creatures, magical beings and animals that have sentient states of mind, dad has the same rights as Madam Bones when it comes to interrogating them. More often than not, Aurors actually expect him to do that instead of Madam Bones." And while Joshua, Isaac and Madam Bones frown at this, does Mr. Bryce read on.

Winky began … recognized it.

Yet here dad glares at Mr. Crouch and says: "I know you, Barty, and I know you wouldn't let just a single House-Elf guard someone you don't trust. What kind of magic are you using to control that son of yours? Cause it sounds as if it failed and gave your son the chance to steal my boy's wand." Mr. Crouch cringes at this and says:
"I – I can assure you, Lord Black. Until I read of this, I – I was 100% confident that my method was flawless and without fault. Yes, Winky treated Junior the way my wife did, believing in the good in his heart even if I didn't, but I never relented on my magical methods of containing him." Yet then I notice it and state:
"But it is weakening you. The longer you cast it, the more it tires you out. Your core is being drained and because it has been happening for so long, so many years, you probably didn't notice it happening, slowly but surely." At this dad groans and growls: "And Junior being as devious as he is, has been keeping this secret from you."

Which seems to frighten the man and he asks: "You – you mean that – that he's – he's been – growing resistant? And that – that I –?" And we both nod, to which the man turns to Madam Bones and screams: "Go to my house the minute this chapter is over. My wife's Will forbids me from sending him to Azkaban, but –."
And Madam Bones nods at him as she says: "I will find the next best thing to contain him, you have my word." At which I turn to the others and then ask: "How does the Chamber of Secrets sound?" Shocking the duo and I shrug as I say: "As of this moment, I am the only one present able to open and close it. Sounds secure, right?"

But dad shakes his head and says: "I don't want you anywhere near that monster." To which I say: "And what if I go into the entrance, open it and then use the Shadows to get out? I can have Fawkes or Hedwig or someone else then alert Madam Bones that she can go in and drop him down there. And when he's done, I come back and close it."
"And trust me, Sirius, the pipe that is the start of the entrance is long." Ron says, elongating the last word like no tomorrow. At this dad sighs and asks: "You can open and close that thing without having to even see Crouch?" And I say: "Without even seeing him enter the hallway leading to it." At which dad nods and Madam Bones says:
"Very well, I will leave now so I can capture that freak. Mr. Potter, you head for the Chamber entrance. Albus, let me know through Fawkes upon my return if Mr. Potter is back here. If he is, I will head there." Yet then I spot one problem and ask: "Ehm Madam Bones, where exactly is the Chamber entrance?" Startling the woman.

"I thought you knew?" Dad asks frightened and I say: "I do. I just never said it out loud." And the woman's monocle falls out of her eye in shock before she hits herself on the head and asks: "Where is it?" And while I wonder if she'll believe me, do I make sure to sound as serious as I can as I say: "Girls bathroom on the second floor.
It's the whole reason Moaning Myrtle is there so often. She was the last victim the monster killed when the Chamber was opened back during the forties." And this seems to convince the woman that I'm not lying or pulling her leg. She nods at me and then rounds up her Hit-Wizards before she leaves. And I decide to follow her lead.

I focus on my power and happily sink into the shadow underneath my seat. And while I feel the incredible magic of Hogwarts stronger than I do when walking across the grounds or entering through the gate on the First of September, do I not let this wondrous feeling of power overwhelm me or allow it to distract me.
I push through, my body now nothing but mass that is created out of the structure of the castle itself and with that allowing me perfect view of where I am going and while I do have to take a few detours as the large windows in some hallways allow for very little shadow and even cause breaks between a few, do I still arrive.
And while I know that I will probably need to take a rest after going back and hope that I can break for the next chapter and take a nap, do I easily step out of the shadow that is in the doorway of the hall on the other side of the girls bathroom where I need to be. I turn solid and feel my body once more take its usual shape.

And while I, before, always felt better about being a shadow than being me due to my starved looks and form, do I now feel just as great being human as my new looks give me something to be proud of. And while I hope no one will ever find out, do I put the same poise, pride and arrogance in my step as I often saw Malfoy do.
I walk into the bathroom and over to the entrance to the Chamber. But when I stand in front of it, do I groan as I hear a spectral voice behind me giggle. And before she can say anything, do I state: "I have a boyfriend, Myrtle." Startling the ghost girl before she starts to sniffle and screams: "MEANIE!" As she plunges into her stall.
But I ignore this and use the shadows of the group of sinks to create a small upraising of a wall that keeps the flooded water from reaching me and just focus on the tap in front of me. The snake turns dark with the shadows I cast over it and I hiss: "Open." Hearing a sibilant undertone added to my voice as I do.

And just like last year does the sink disappear and does the entrance to the Mythical, Legendary Chamber of Secrets open itself up. Yet then I get hit with a bout of inspiration and I let a small bit of shadow break from the wall. I focus on it and hiss the word again before focusing it down the pipe and through the tunnel beneath.
And while I do feel my power weakening the further the bit of shadow travel, do I not lose my control over it until I feel it hit something with a powerful sense of magic attached to it. And instantly I know that I did indeed open the second door to the Chamber. This makes me smirk and I turn my back on the Chamber as a whole.

I walk over to the small wall that is keeping the water away and gather it together to also raise it up at the same time and before the flooding water can reach me, do I step through and sink back into the shadows that make up so much of the Hogwarts castle. I again feel my body turning into the solid mass of the castle and love it intensely.
I turn around and while I really want to go back to the reading, do I actually feel myself be filled up with glee when I spot a break in the road due to two shadows being broken up by a spot of light. And so, while people might think this strange, do I happily turn around and take a detour, making sure to do so at every break.
And so I take quite a bit longer to get back to the Great Hall and my seat than I took to getting to the bathroom hallway and when I finally reach it, do I know I have a grin the size of the table I am seated at on my face as I take back my human form. Everyone, bar the Gang, looks at this shocked and I sound chirpy as I ask:
"What did I miss?" And while the Squad are now starting to smile with a nostalgic kind of happiness at seeing me like this, does Cedric shake his head and say: "Just – well – my dad proving he can't treat anyone he interrogates fairly." Which takes some of my glee, but not all of it. And so I just shrug at him and listen to Mr. Bryce reading.

"Well, we'll … your hand!"

And as much as I don't want it to is this bit enough to take all of my happiness away and I angrily growl: "And apparently evidence is more important than a witness' statement." To which Grandpa says: "Only to interrogators who are not Amelia, my boy. She puts equal importance in both." I nod and Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Amos," said … story, Amos?"

This makes me sigh and cross my arms and I say: "It's that Mr. Crouch and I barely ever met or I would have been more bothered by that. I'd rather people know me for my reputation, my skills as a Seeker and stuff like that. Not for a story that has been ripped out of proportion years ago." At this Mr. Bryce nods and then reads on.

"Of course … bulging again.

"The only problem with that statement, Crouch, is that it's been one big, fat, disgusting lie for all the years that your wife has been dead." Mr. Longbottom growls in raging fury and the man in question cringes before he moans: "You have no idea." Which makes me share a concerned glance with my friends as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Mr. Crouch … it up."

Yet as the man reads this, do I suddenly gasp and grab my heart, panting and breathing loudly as it seems that my recent journey has given my powers a crazy boost. And the inherited trait that I told the others about suddenly got activated. I feel its power connected to the Hogwarts castle and the warning it gives me scares me like nothing has ever scared me before.
My eyes widen, my pupils practically take over all of my iris, my body starts to sweat and tremble and yet I feel colder than the darkest shadow caused by a winter night's storm. Yet suddenly I feel something light pushing my legs up and feel my connection with the shadow under the table be broken by another's power.
And when I look down, do I see a goblet made of glass shining brightly like the sun. I look up and notice everyone look at me worriedly. "C-C-C – Junior just – just entered Hogwarts. His – his – his darkness – his – his evil – the – the things he wants to do –." And I whimper and shudder, unable to put what I sensed into words.

At this dad pulls me close, but also pulls me onto his lap in such a way my legs are crouched against his own body and above the ground and he turns to the other Elementals as he asks: "Is he going to continue being able to sense that when that bastard enters the Chamber or is he going to be able to turn this power off?"
At which Jeremy winces and says: "Actually, considering that the Chamber is so deep underground, there are more shadows there. Thus a higher chance that Harry can be able to sense everything – well – wrong with that bastard." At which dad pulls me even tighter, but then grandpa stands up, raises his arm and shouts: "Fawkes!"
And the gorgeous Phoenix appears in a burst of flame. Grandpa then writes a quick note and hands it to the Phoenix as he says: "Make sure Amelia gets this before she throws Junior down the entrance, my friend." And the Phoenix takes the note in its beak before vanishing in the same burst of flame as grandpa says:
"I asked Amelia to knock Junior out. If he's knocked out, he can't think and he can't mentally express his desires. If she can hit him hard enough, he should be out long enough that Harry can learn to shut that ability on and off at will." And dad happily releases the tense hold he has on me as he smiles gratefully and Mr. Bryce reads on.

"But then … no one…"

Yet at this dad grimaces and mum nods as he says: "That's clever. Because Amos asked if the Elf saw anyone, not if she was with anyone, she is able to keep Junior a secret, which is probably what Senior ordered her to do." And while I can tell that the remaining members are taking note of this, does Mr. Bryce grimace and read on.

"Amos," said … means clothes."

And while a lot of Purebloods gasp in shock at this, does dad just calmly send Mr. Crouch a deadpan stare and he says: "You are one big idiot, Crouch. You're asking Amos to let you deal with Winky yourself and then you free her, taking her the need to remain loyal to you and keep your secrets. Real smart move there, idiot."
And Crouch looks at the man shocked before he hits himself on the head, yet then Cedric sighs and says: "Unfortunately, it's also pretty smart. Dad hates interrogating freed elves. He thinks they are distrustful and treats them worse than he has been doing the others so far. This will keep him from wanting to take her in."
"Well, aren't you lucky, Crouch?" Dad hisses at this and he goes on: "You just, as the Muggles say, dodged the bullet of a lifetime there.""Trust me, Black. I know that. And considering the threat she was containing for me – or so I thought – I feel even worse over what I just did." At this I shudder as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"No!" shrieked … their way!"

"Not to mention the fact that you ordered her to contain a threat that turns Harry into the state you just saw him be in and she does it without question or objection. She respects, trusts and is loyal to you more than probably even your own family. She deserves more respect than you just gave her. More than your blasted reputation."
Rosaline snaps at the man, glaring at him as if he is a single weed in her gorgeous garden of roses, lavender, jasmine and sunflowers and yet a lot of Purebloods wince at this. "Are you kidding me? Is showing a bit of respect, a bit of gratitude, to beings that apparently work so hard for you, that obey you even at their own costs too much to ask?"
And the uncomfortable way that a lot of witches and wizards start to rub the back of their heads and necks, squirm in their seats, turn circles on their legs with their fingers or try to look away makes the young woman groan and snap: "Wizards, arrogant assholes. Nothing more." At which Mr. Bryce snickers and then reads on.

Mr. Crouch … master's reputation."

This makes the Flora Elemental glare at the man, but then Mr. Longbottom pulls her close and says: "Just forget it, dear. Crouch already got what he deserved. He might have gotten out of being questioned by Amos, but he is still going to get his due. I'm sure of it." And his daughter calms down as Mr. Bryce reads on.

Winky was … the clearing.

"I'm not going to say this because I want to spite Crouch more than he already has been, but I really wish you had taken her in, kiddo. An Elf as loyal and dedicated as that one? That'd be a prize among either the Potter or Black legacy, let me tell you." Dad tells me and yet this causes something to happen that I didn't expect.
A pop is heard at my feet and when I look down, do my eyes widen and does Mr. Malfoy tense up as Dobby the House Elf actually throws himself at my dad and pleads: "Lord Sirius Black sir, please! Let Dobby be the House Elf to the Great Harry Potter sir! Please let Dobby be that elf! Dobby WANTS TO BE THAT ELF!"
And while I think: "He wants this bad enough he actually uses proper English." Do I ignore this fact as dad turns to me and ask: "Is this that elf that you freed?" And when I nod, does he turn to Lucius, who frowns and says: "Like you said, he's freed." And dad nods before he turns down and says: "We'll discuss terms after the chapter ends.

Until then, just do what you think can be considered useful to my son." Yet then I turn to my friends and instantly say: "But nothing like what you tried in my Second. No trying to get me in trouble, because you think it can help me in the long run. Understand Dobby?" And the Elf nods frantically before it vanishes with a pop.
"Do I even want to know?" Mum asks worriedly and I say: "Let's just say, while I was stupid and forgot about Hedwig – was Dobby the whole reason Ron and I decided to make that stupid mistake that got Mr. Weasley in trouble with the Ministry." And while this shocks most of those around, does Mr. Bryce read on.

"I don't … though shaken.

And while Mrs. Weasley had started fretting when Bill's cut was mentioned, does her husband sigh and say: "That sounds not too bad. Considering what we were up against, it sounds like we got off pretty much unharmed." And while this really worries me, does it calm his wife down and Mr. Bryce grunts before he reads on.

"Did you … and Control."

This makes all of the Gang, all of the Squad, a lot of Muggleborns and me glare at the lad and I angrily growl: "Percy, you're a good friend and I care for you a lot, like a distant brother even – but since when is someone's reputation more important than rights and justice?" And the Weasley cringes in guilt as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"She didn't … the ground!"

"And considering who was hidden under that cloak, I think it's safe to say that she didn't just pick it off the ground. It's probably more likely that Junior ordered her to take it after conjuring the mark, so he could stay hidden and remain a secret." Uncle Regulus growls and Mr. Crouch whimpers at this as Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Look, can … they killed,"

And the minute this is read, do I notice it. Dad's face turns dark and his arms, which are holding me tightly, start to tremble and I push my body closer against his as mum asks: "Love?" And the man whimpers: "It – it wasn't there. When – when I arrived that night – it wasn't there – but your body was." And this says it all.
Dad is reliving the night he thought he found mum's dead body. And after everything that we just read about, do I know that just calming him down or taking his negative emotions isn't going to be enough. So I turn to Eddy, who nods and raises a single hand, focusing on my dad and looking him between the eyes as he does.
And slowly but surely I can feel dad's form loosening up, his arms going limp and his upper body starting to lean against mine, relying on my body to keep his own upright. Everyone looks at this shocked and Eddy says: "The nighttime is when we regain our energy – through our sleep." And I hear dad starting to snore.
Everyone looks at this shocked and a student from Ravenclaw asks: "Damn, is there anything you lot can't do?" To which Jeremy, who sounds as ominous as his father, yet as regal and proud as his mother and Mr. Malfoy says: "Nothing, if it means we can help our loved ones." And the student whistles as Mr. Bryce reads on.

said Mr. … very worst."

And yet, while a lot of older faces are now as dark as dad's was before, do I just look at the sleeping man in concern and then suddenly grandpa says: "Harry, go sit with your mother. I will have Fawkes take your dad to a bed so he can really get some rest." And I nod before moving over to my mum, who happily takes me in his lap.
The incredible Phoenix then reappears, takes dad's shoulder between his talons and lets out a gorgeous sound that makes everyone who looked gloomy and horrified sigh in renewed strength, before he vanishes in a fourth burst of flame. And while I really hope that this bit of rest will do dad good, does Mr. Bryce read on.

There was … Azkaban, anyway."

"I can assure you –." Mss. Jorkins tries to finally snap, but mum glares at her and snarls: "The Ministry sent my mate to Azkaban just because it wanted peace so badly it considered evidence more important than a trial or witness statement. Nothing you say can convince me you didn't mess up at other cases, Jorkins."
The woman glares at this, but then Madam Bones walks in and says: "And I give you full right into believing that, Lord Potter. Though I do hope you will take my word that I will investigate every single case with a fine-toothed comb soon enough." Which calms dad down, but then Isaac shocks us and says:
"You shouldn't do that yet." Everyone turns to him and he says: "All those cases are based on events that might or might not have happened. They are based on a period of time that has been affected by the MMB. Until it has been broken down and destroyed, you can't judge any of the cases. You might make a mistake based on fake statements."
At this Amelia sighs and says: "I hate to say it, but you're right, Mr. Granger. Very well. Lord Potter, you have my word and solemn vow that, once Magical England has been freed from the MMB, I will put my full effort into every case that was brought up at the end of the war." Mum nods at this and Mr. Bryce smiles as he reads on.

"We can't … finished disgustedly.

Yet here those that had been captured or otherwise incapacitated turn confused and Uncle Regulus says: "Sounds like even the memories of the war have been changed. Voldemort never let his men do that. Every attack was with purpose and was done to cause damage, destruction and install fear, terror and grief in any and all hearts.
No Death Eater was allowed to just go out and have fun like that. Voldemort felt that would ruin the image of cold-hearted, murderous dictator that he wanted to impress upon everyone. Any Death Eater who did that, would be found dead and – well, they'd be found dead soon after." And a lot of people wince at this as the reading goes on.

"But if … come back.

At this I notice grandpa nod and he says: "Like I have told any who is willing to listen. Voldemort shows little mercy to his victims and even less to his followers." And just by what we were just told by Uncle Reg, do I know that there is a horrible sense of truth to these words. Mr. Bryce acknowledges this with a grunt as he reads on.

They denied … them away?"

"Or maybe because we're dealing with someone who resisted the MMB and wanted to remind those bastards what would happen to them if they continued down that path." Someone suggests, but mum shakes his head and says: "The spell works on werewolves and Goblins. It's a good guess, but no." The guy grimaces and Mr. Bryce reads on.

"Your guess … of here."

And Mrs. Weasley, from who I had to take a lot of negativity when I worked my magic, nods at this but also says: "Though I probably feel better here than I would have if I had been there." And her husband pulls her lovingly closer, his arms wrapped around her in an attempt to comfort her as Mr. Bryce continues the chapter.

Harry got … dozed off.

At this I turn to Eddy, who raises his arm. But I shake my head and say: "Give me one chance." And while he and mum both grimace to prove they know what I mean, does Eddy keep his arm only half raised. And after I give mum a reassuring glance and his arm a comforting squeeze of my hand, do I look down.
And while I really don't want to feel all those sensations again, while I really hope that Madam Bones took Crouch Junior down good and while I really hope this will go well, do I slowly and tentatively stretch one leg out. But the second my toes touch the shadow under our seat, do I turn to Eddy before tranquil darkness overwhelms me.


Damn you, Junior.
Okay, so I REALLY didn't plan on this, but I can't deny the intelligence of this lot or the fact that there are so many experienced adults in this group. What a fourteen year old teen, overcome with fright and hormones and public peer pressure can't figure out, can be solved by a group reading about it from his POV.
So yeah, Junior has been dealt with and yet, at the same time, he is still being as much of a problem as he was to Moody, Harry, Dumbledore and Sirius back in the book. Yet at the same time, do his problems offer something positive to Harry. He is getting more chances to be dependent on his parents and other loved ones.
Bonus, right,

Venquine1990
PS. Yes, I skipped parts of the CR chapter, but that, to me, makes this story unique. So sorry, but you can probably expect that more often. Just not every chapter or every other chapter.
PPS. WHO HAS SEEN AVENGERS INFINITY WAR? I want to write a piece about Thanos and what I want to see happen to him, but I don't want to reveal spoilers. PLEASE LET ME KNOW!