Chapter 8: The Attack at Longbottom Manor
Dumbledore's charms had alerted him to the attack at the Longbottom Manor, and with a mixture of concern and determination, he decided to leave Hogwarts and apparated directly to the scene. As he materialized amidst the chaos, his presence commanded attention, and Aurors turned to face him, their wands at the ready.
Alastor Moody, the head Auror, approached Dumbledore. "Albus," he greeted, his voice filled with a sense of urgency. "We were caught off guard tonight. The wards surrounding the manor were amongst the highest grade, but they were breached. It appears that an unknown artifact was used by Bellatrix Lestrange, which caused the wards to fail."
Dumbledore's brows furrowed, his concern deepening. "And what of the Longbottoms?" he inquired, his voice laced with worry.
Moody's gaze shifted, his tone slightly hopeful. "There was no sign of them, Headmaster. It appears that either Sirius Black had prior knowledge of the attack or had other reasons for being here and managed to escape with the Longbottoms.
Dumbledore's eyes widened in surprise, a mix of curiosity and concern flickering in his gaze. "Sirius Black…"
Dumbledore's brows furrowed, his mind racing to comprehend the situation. "The Longbottoms, Sirius, and Harry. Where could they have gone? Do we have any leads?"
Moody's magical eye swiveled, scanning the surroundings for any potential threats. "We are currently investigating. Our priority is to question Bellatrix Lestrange and the Lestrange brothers, who were captured during the battle. We will interrogate them thoroughly to gather any information that may lead us to the missing individuals."
Dumbledore's expression shifted, a mix of concern and determination settling upon his face. "We must find them, Alastor. The safety of the Longbottoms and Harry is paramount. And we cannot underestimate the lingering threat of Voldemort.
Moody's magical eye swiveled, scanning the surroundings for any potential threats. "The world hails the Potters as heroes, believing they have vanquished Voldemort. But I share your belief, Albus. We must not underestimate the darkness that still looms."
Dumbledore nodded, a mix of gratitude and concern in his eyes. "Thank you, Alastor. Your dedication to the cause is commendable. We must rely on the strength and unity of the Order of the Phoenix in these trying times."
Together, Dumbledore and Moody turned their attention back to the captured Death Eaters. Bellatrix Lestrange and the Lestrange brothers would be subjected to intense interrogation, hoping to glean any information that could lead to the whereabouts of the missing children and shed light on Voldemort's plans.
As the world celebrated the Potters as heroes, Dumbledore's mind remained focused on the truth that lay hidden. He believed that Voldemort's threat persisted, and he was determined to uncover the mysteries surrounding the prophecy and protect the ones destined to bring peace to the wizarding world.