Dark clouds

Hogwarts,

10 am:

Usually, Albus would wait for his guests in his office. However, on this occasion, he decided to make an exception and descended to the grand entrance hall to personally welcome Edmund Longbottom. As expected, Edmund arrived punctually, a warm smile gracing his bearded face as he strode across the viaduct courtyard to greet Albus and extend a friendly handshake.

"Ah, Dumbledore, I appreciate your graciousness in meeting me at such short notice," Edmund declared with a polite nod.

"Nonsense, my dear Edmund! The gates of Hogwarts are forever open to you, my friend. Pray tell, would you care to pay a visit to the magnificent Great Hall? If my memory serves me right, it was your cherished chamber within this grand castle," Albus suggested.

Edmund chuckled lightly and shook his head in negation before responding, "Though sorely tempted, I would prefer if we proceed directly to your office, Dumbledore. The matter at hand is of utmost urgency, I'm afraid," he added, casting a furtive glance behind him.

Albus nodded understandingly and gestured for Edmund to follow him inside the castle. They engaged in conversation along the way, until the formidable gorgons guarding the stairs granted them passage, leading them to the revered headmaster's office.

Seated upon his lofty armchair, Dumbledore extended a finger toward the bowl of lemon drops resting on his desk, saying, "Please, help yourself to some lemon drops!" he invited Edmund, who hesitated for a moment before giving a smile and picking one, and then a few more, which he carefully stowed away in the pocket of his waistcoat.

"These are for Neville," Edmund explained with a wince.

"Of course! It brings to mind the days of my youth when I developed a profound fondness for these delightful treats. Some may think I jest when I confess that my first request upon assuming the position of Headmaster was for a bowl of lemon drops, and since then, the diligent house elves have ensured a steady supply," Albus revealed. He then lowered his voice and leaned closer to Edmund, whispering, "I have come to accept that Elphias' visits often serve his own interests, but at times, I suspect the elves have stationed one of their own here in my office, replenishing the bowl while I am otherwise occupied..."

"Intriguing, I suspect Neville of depleting my own stash when I am distracted," Edmund responded in a hushed tone, accompanied by a chuckle. Leaning back in his chair, he continued, "Dumbledore, much has transpired since our last encounter, and I have given it considerable thought. I have reached the conclusion that it is time for me to retire."

Albus was taken aback by this revelation and replied, "It would be unjust of me to deny you such a choice, my dear friend."

"I am greatly appreciative of your understanding," Edmund expressed with gratitude.

"However, considering the sensitivity of the current moment, Edmund, would you be willing to contemplate postponing your retirement?" Albus inquired.

"I'm afraid that waiting any longer would render me a liability to our own cause, Dumbledore," Edmund said with a hint of sadness, polishing his glasses.

"Forgive my lack of knowledge concerning Muggle ailments... Isn't there a cure?" Albus inquired gently.

"Alzheimer's, I'm afraid, is an unstoppable force. I consider myself fortunate to have had access to magical remedies that have provided some relief. But it is slowly devouring my mind, irreversibly. As a permanent member of the Wizengamot and the Hogwarts board, seeking treatment at St. Mungo's is out of the question... The moment news spreads, many will question my past decisions and choices! They will seek to revoke hard-fought legislations, setting off a cycle of political retaliation that could potentially bring our institution crumbling down," Edmund explained.

Albus nodded, his face filled with melancholy, as he stroked his beard. "Is there anything I can do to assist?"

"Thank you for your offer, I truly appreciate it. However, Augusta had been brewing a range of potions to delay the progression of the disease, helping me maintain clarity. Unfortunately, these remedies have now become ineffectual... Just so you understand, initially, a single dose per day sufficed, but now I require one every fifteen minutes. The point at which the interval will decrease further is unpredictable, it could happen within a minute or even in the midst of a Wizengamot session," Edmund revealed.

Dumbledore remained silent, placing the lemon drop he had been holding back into the bowl, before speaking softly, "Edmund, I am deeply saddened by this news..." However, Edmund managed a smile.

"Do not be sorrowful! Let us instead focus our energies on navigating our predicament within the Wizengamot. During the war, we held the advantage as our opponents were hesitant to make bold moves, fearing the attention of Bartemius and Alastor. Ironically, with the downfall of the Dark Lord, our numbers have also dwindled," Edmund stated.

"I am well aware of this challenge... Nevertheless, we still maintain a slim majority that we can use to thwart their efforts," Dumbledore asserted.

"I wouldn't be so optimistic, my dear Frank," Edmund sighed, hastening to take a sip from a flask he retrieved from his vest. He continued, "I apologize... What I mean to say is that our majority hinges on Greengrass and Fawley, two independent seats that could sway to the opposing side... They are not practitioners of the Dark Arts nor followers of wizarding supremacy, but, as you know, I am not the only one who has retired."

Dumbledore glanced at Phineas Nigellus Black, who surprisingly remained silent, and responded, "I have been informed through my connections that Abraxas Malfoy contacted them and a few others. Succeeding Orion Black is no easy task, even with the right family name and wealth. To solidify his position as the new leader of the conservative party, he must secure an absolute victory and increase their seats... We can expect a strong offensive from Malfoy."

"I concur, but even if he succeeds, those seats would merely bring the numbers to a fifty-fifty split. Furthermore, as you mentioned earlier, Orion Black vacated his seat... to be filled by someone who aligns with our cause," Dumbledore stated.

Edmund furrowed his brow and asked, "Sirius Black?"

"Without a doubt. Having been a member of the Order of the Phoenix, I highly doubt he would follow in his father's footsteps. Upon his return, he will undoubtedly shift his family's allegiance to our side, providing us with the majority we so desperately require.

"Are you truly certain?" Edmund inquired, his uncertainty evident in his voice.

"I am," Albus replied firmly. "I cannot fathom a world wherein he would align himself with Lord Voldemort's adherents or remain silent if he deems our Ministry of Magic to be veering toward authoritarianism."

"But I can envision a world wherein he harbors a personal grudge against you, Dumbledore. After all, you did authorize his incarceration without a fair trial... as we all approved," Edmund pointed out.

Albus nodded solemnly and responded, "It would be understandable for him to bear such ill will. However, as one who hath experienced the searing pain of injustice and cruelty, he shall strive to resist it."

"Or seek vengeance against those who failed him," Edmund asserted resolutely.

Albus's eyes briefly widened at the tenor of Edmund's voice, but he maintained his composure and replied politely, "The reports I have received from Remus indicate otherwise. Nevertheless, Sirius hath a personal motive to bolster our ranks, so I do not concern myself with his intentions."

Edmund took another sip from his flask and then said, "He is Harry's godfather."

Albus nodded in agreement and stated firmly, "I expect him to claim custody of Harry, but he shall comprehend... It is in Harry's best interest that he does so."

Edmund let out a weary sigh and whispered, "Harry and Neville were destined to grow up together... Alice was Harry's godmother, whilst Lily was Neville's."

"How is young Neville?" Albus asked softly.

Edmund chuckled, retrieved a picture from his pocket, and handed it to Albus. "He is a fine lad, insatiably curious! He doth follow me throughout the manor incessantly. No doubt, thou shalt have thy hands full with him in a few years' time."

Albus chuckled softly. "Has he displayed any signs of magic yet?"

"Not as yet, but it shall not tarry if Augustina deigns to be more merciful with him... I do acknowledge the import of discipline in a child's upbringing, but I believe she imposes excessive severity upon him. It does harness his development, in my opinion," Edmund expounded.

"She acts solely in his best interests," Albus softly said.

"I shall not challenge that, of course... But when I was his age, I whiled away my days in the forest! Scaling trees, besmirching myself in mud, pursuing squirrels and rabbits. And then I would return home in tears when an Acromantula decreed that I appeared more delectable than its prey. Neville is terrified by wolves!" Edmund reminisced, aghast at the contrast.

Albus beamed and tendered the picture of Neville back to Edmund. "Different times"

Edmund nodded, his gaze turning grave as he peered out the window. "The future shall not be the same either... I do fear what those dark clouds looming in the distance shalt unleash upon our children."


North Ford Bog,

8 pm.

North of Hogwarts, nestled on the outskirts of the Forbidden Forest, lay the deserted hamlet of North Ford Bog. However, Remus had breathed new life into one of the dilapidated houses, transforming it into a cozy cottage. The proximity to the forbidden forest served as a deterrent to curious explorers, while the cellar was fortified with powerful charms, and an array of enchantments were woven around the cottage, culminating with the Fidelius charm being the master of the house his own secret keeper, creating the perfect sanctuary for a werewolf like Remus, who valued his privacy immensely.

After a long day, Remus wearily collapsed onto the sofa in the living room, his wand aimed at the window. With a deft flick, he opened it, inviting the refreshing night breeze inside and catching a glimpse of Hogwarts' towering spires in the distance. Then, with another flick of his wand, the utensils in the kitchen sprung to life, diligently preparing his dinner.

As he was in the midst of removing his shoes, he heard the unmistakable sound of an apparition just outside. Curiosity piqued; he approached the door to warmly welcome Dumbledore. Only person along with McGonagall and Hagrid trusted with his secret.

Before Dumbledore could have the chance to even tap on the door, Remus swung it open, only to be taken aback by the sight of the elderly wizard donned in a muggle grey suit, quite distinct from his customary wizarding robes.

"Good evening, Remus!" Dumbledore exclaimed, wearing a gentle smile. "I apologize for bothering you at such a late hour."

"No need to apologize, professor!" Remus replied, swinging the door open and gesturing for Dumbledore to enter. "I was just about to have dinner. Would you care to join me?"

"It would be my pleasure!" Dumbledore accepted, stepping inside. "I must apologize for not responding to your note this afternoon. I was overwhelmed with work at the ministry."

"You shouldn't have gone through the trouble of coming all the way here! It could have waited until tomorrow," Remus protested.

"Unfortunately, I won't be available then either," Dumbledore lamented.

"Oh... Nevertheless, welcome to my humble abode!" Remus exclaimed, motioning with his hand to showcase the living room. He hurriedly started clearing the books scattered across the sofa and armchair. "Sorry about the mess. I tidy up every day, but it doesn't last long when I get busy."

"You've been a frequent visitor to my office, Remus," Dumbledore chuckled as he settled into the armchair. His gaze wandered around the room, a smile forming on his lips when he noticed Gryffindor's banner hanging above the fireplace. "I must say, I approve of your choice of decorations."

"I can't consider any place my home without the colors of Gryffindor," Remus commented, glancing at the banner. "Can I offer you something to drink while I finish cooking?"

"Remus, I wouldn't have come to disturb you without bringing a contribution," Dumbledore replied with a smile, waving his wand slightly. A bottle of wine and various delectable dishes materialized on the coffee table. "One of the perks of being the headmaster of Hogwarts is not having to turn invisible and sneak into the kitchens for a snack."

Remus chuckled and nodded, taking a seat on the couch. "Will you require my assistance tomorrow, sir?"

"Yes, indeed," Dumbledore confirmed, pouring them both a glass of wine. "Cornelius' first month as Minister for Magic has been rather unusual. He was elected without campaigning, and he has been implementing sudden changes within the departments and pushing for reforms before his first year in office concludes."

"What kind of reforms?" Remus inquired, furrowing his brow after taking a sip of wine.

"Dolores Umbridge, previously a low-ranking employee of the Magical Law and Justice Department, managed to catch Fudge's attention. He recruited her to join his team. Since then, I've been informed that the minister has been actively working on some bills aimed at ensuring the safety of the magical community," Dumbledore revealed.

"I have my doubts about Cornelius Fudge's suitability as Minister, so I find it hard to believe he would handle such a delicate issue properly," Remus remarked.

Dumbledore nodded in agreement. "Indeed. A contact from within shared with me an advanced draft of the bill. Examining it closely, I discovered that the proposed law could be used to target a particular category of citizens."

"The Muggle-born?" Remus inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Possibly... The terminology they have used is 'special needs population.' By this, they are referring to squibs, werewolves, vampires, veelas, giants, goblins, elves, and all, pardon the term, 'half-breeds' as mentioned in the bill," Dumbledore disclosed.

"I know someone who would be greatly affected if this law is passed," Remus expressed.

"I can imagine... In the time before Voldemort's downfall, proposing such a law for a vote would have been akin to admitting one's allegiance as a Death Eater. Then, between Voldemort's disappearance and Cornelius Fudge's election, the bill would have been swiftly rejected in the initial session. However, now, if it is endorsed by the minister himself, I'm uncertain of the outcome," Dumbledore explained.

"Why is that?" Remus inquired.

"The numbers in the Wizengamot are evenly divided, Remus... We had a moral advantage when Voldemort was present, and we maintained a narrow majority even after Lord Orion Black's resignation. However, following a meeting this morning with a concerned Edmund Longbottom, I fear our numbers may dwindle. Consequently, we may lose the vote," Dumbledore expressed with concern.

"Can you provide me with more details about this law?" Remus requested.

"Of course... Individuals falling into the designated category would be placed under the jurisdiction of the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. Here are some of the proposed provisions:

They would be compelled to register and relocate to designated areas, segregated from both the wizarding and Muggle communities. Living outside of these areas or possessing assets beyond them would be prohibited. They would be prohibited from having personal vaults at Gringotts unless they consent to grant power of attorney to the department. This would entail the department overseeing all their banking activities, granting approval or disapproval for transactions and administrative procedures. They would face stringent conditions when applying for employment and be required to disclose their 'condition' to their employer. The employer would have to sponsor them and share responsibility for any incidents that may occur. They would be forbidden from marrying wizards and witches. Furthermore, if they wish to marry within their own community, approval from St. Mungo's and the Ministry of Magic would be mandatory. They would also be required to undergo monthly check-ups at St. Mungo's, among other stipulations," Dumbledore outlined.

"WHAT?! Why don't they just brand us like farm animals?" Remus exclaimed, his voice filled with frustration.

"Something similar is indeed included in the proposed measures... However, certain mistakes were made... Mistakes that I intend to exploit to prevent its submission to the Wizengamot," Dumbledore assured.

"Isn't blocking the law from being presented a sign of weakness? Aren't you concerned about being seen as the minority leader?" Remus inquired.

"You've hit the mark precisely... The composition of the Wizengamot has changed since the trials of the Death Eaters. Lord Longbottom's retirement and the loss of his seat have dealt a blow to our side, and we will miss his eloquence... On the other hand, it seems that Lords Abraxas Malfoy and Nott have no plans to retire anytime soon. This brings me to the reason for my late visit to you... Has Sirius contacted you? Is he considering returning?" Dumbledore asked.

"No, Professor, he hasn't written to me since I left Romania..." Remus replied.

"How is he faring?" Dumbledore inquired.

"Strangely well... Azkaban doesn't seem to have affected him as severely as I anticipated. He has matured slightly but remains the person I knew. As for his return, he doesn't believe he is ready. Sirius made it sound like he is on some sort of spiritual journey," Remus explained.

"Has he mentioned the idea of reaching out to Harry?" Dumbledore asked.

"Yes, he has... To be honest, he was furious to learn that Harry is completely cut off from the magical world and that you won't allow me to contact him," Remus confessed.

"As I expected," Dumbledore sighed.

"However, he understands your reasons, and if it is for Harry's well-being, he will comply," Remus assured. "That's what he promised me, and I trust him."

"Very well, I'm relieved to hear that. I will explain everything to Sirius at the earliest opportunity... Hopefully, that opportunity will arise soon," Dumbledore responded.

"Sirius also asked about his wand and requested that I mail it to him. Do you happen to know if it is still held in the fortress or if it was placed in his vault after his acquittal?" Remus inquired.

"Well, considering the nature of the crime he was accused of and the severity of the sentence, it's possible that it was unfortunately destroyed. However, if not, the Ministry may have returned it to his family or sent it to Gringotts. After all, destroying his wand might have been seen as a great offense to a family like his, despite the strained relationship between Sirius and his kin," Dumbledore explained.

"I understand... If it hasn't been destroyed, could you try to retrieve it?" Remus requested.

"Of course, I will look into it tomorrow and then ask Fawkes to deliver it to him. By the way, I sense that something else is troubling you," Dumbledore observed.

"Yes, it's about Greyback. I didn't witness it myself, but Denise Balasko, Sirius, and two other members of his small group have confirmed that not only did Greyback transform in broad daylight, but the transformation was significantly different from that of a typical werewolf," Remus revealed.

"In what way was it different?" Dumbledore asked, displaying his intrigue.

"He became a hybrid... something between his human form and a werewolf. Sirius insists that his spells rebounded off Greyback's skin. But the strangest part is that Greyback remained conscious throughout the transformation! He even spoke, or so they say," Remus shared with a mix of concern and intrigue.

Dumbledore fell silent, lost in thought as he absentmindedly stroked his long beard.

"Do you think it's possible that Greyback is an Animagus? Could his werewolf condition have influenced his transformation somehow?" Remus speculated, seeking Dumbledore's insight.

"I don't believe so... While there have been instances of werewolves becoming Animagi in the past, it is important to note that one cannot choose the animal they transform into. The likelihood of a werewolf transforming into a wolf is quite low, and a werewolf's personality and character traits play a significant role. Wolves are noble creatures that care for their pack, quite unlike Fenrir Greyback. Furthermore, the process of becoming an Animagus requires significant magical skill, something that someone as mediocre in magic as Fenrir would likely struggle with. Lastly, even among werewolves who have successfully become Animagi, I have never come across any mention of a hybrid form. To be honest, I've never delved deeply into the subject," Dumbledore explained thoughtfully.

"Indeed, werewolves are accustomed to being outcasts... I doubt anyone has ever openly declared themselves both a werewolf and an Animagus in a town square," Remus whispered, reflecting on the societal dynamics.

"I concur... Besides, Fenrir Greyback is currently imprisoned in Azkaban, rendering him less of an immediate concern. However he managed to achieve such a transformation, I highly doubt he would have shared his methods to maintain his dominance over Britain's werewolves," Dumbledore stated, contemplating the situation.

"Do you believe it's possible to achieve such a state? Is there a way for a werewolf to retain their consciousness during a full moon?" Remus inquired, hope lacing his words.

"I understand the significance of this to you, Remus. However, we are in the dark regarding Greyback's methods, limitations, and potential consequences... Nonetheless, I will notify the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. They will pay him a visit in his cell and investigate further. For now, let us focus on the matter at hand with the Wizengamot," Dumbledore suggested, redirecting the conversation.

"Very well..." Remus acquiesced, though his desire to delve deeper remained.

"Returning to Sirius... I do wish he had chosen to accompany you. His presence would bring me a greater sense of peace during my slumber," Dumbledore expressed with a hint of longing.

"Do you truly believe that?" Remus questioned, his tone filled with curiosity.

"Yes... Unfortunately, we find ourselves once again in need of a new Defense Against the Dark Arts professor. Sirius would undoubtedly excel in that role," Dumbledore replied.

"Professor, I strongly urge you to reconsider," Remus interjected firmly.

"I assumed you would agree," Dumbledore responded, surprised by Remus' objection.

"Sirius would indeed make an exceptional teacher. He would be highly competent and form close bonds with his students. However, it would also mean signing a decree for the demolition of Hogwarts," Remus explained, revealing the consequential perspective.

"Remus, I believe that after everything Sirius has been through, he must have developed other interests beyond pulling pranks. Though a few laughs would certainly lighten the sometimes heavy atmosphere of the castle," Dumbledore remarked.

"I wasn't referring to that... I simply wanted to remind you that Hogwarts is also Severus Snape's home during the school year," Remus clarified.

"Are you exaggerating a bit? They are both adults now. Your relationship with Severus is cordial, isn't it?" Dumbledore inquired.

"Well, I do my best to avoid running into him in the hallways, and I ignore his sneers and comments," Remus admitted. "But please trust me, I'm not Sirius! With even the slightest glance or word, Severus will tear him apart..."

"I understand," Dumbledore interrupted with a chuckle.

"I apologize," Remus quickly responded.

"Well, that's unfortunate... I now have two positions to fill before the last week of August," Dumbledore sighed.

"Two?" Remus questioned.

"Yes, Quirinus Quirrell has resigned while you were away. He is off traveling the world as we speak. Therefore, I also need to find someone to teach Muggle Studies, and let me assure you, it's not an easy position to fill," Dumbledore explained.

"Um... why not Arabella Figg? She lives among Muggles. I could pick her up before class every morning and take her back home afterward," Remus suggested to Dumbledore, who smiled at the proposal.

"A clever idea, Remus, but I think I would prefer to place an advertisement in the Daily Prophet. Besides, we still need to wait and see if any third-year students choose the subject next year and if any fourth-year students and above wish to continue," Dumbledore responded.

"As you wish! Just out of curiosity... will you have someone keep an eye on Sirius during his journey around the continent?" Remus asked.

"Do you think I should?" Dumbledore queried.

"Well, I'm torn. He has already faced three dangerous situations, so I would feel better if I knew someone was watching over him. But at the same time, I fear how he might react if he found out he was being followed. Knowing him, he could become furious," Remus explained.

"I understand... I must admit that the idea did cross my mind, especially now that he can move freely without hiding. However, I quickly dismissed it. I value his trust and friendship too much... and I have already failed him once," Dumbledore confessed.

"I'm relieved to hear that. Sirius can be stubborn, but if he feels respected, he will soften," Remus acknowledged. "What about his safety?"

"Sirius has proven his talent and strength on multiple occasions... what he has accomplished since his escape would make anyone who seeks to harm him think twice. Nevertheless, whenever he is involved in something, the International Confederation of Wizards' Aurors become alarmed, and I am the first to be informed. So, if the alarm were to sound again, I would personally come to his aid," Dumbledore assured as a gentle rain started to fall outside. Dumbledore waved his finger, and the window closed softly before he stood up and said, "I should return to the castle... Thank you for your time, Remus."

"It was my pleasure! May I suggest using the fireplace?" Remus offered as Dumbledore made his way to the door.

Dumbledore turned towards the fireplace and nodded with a smile. "You're right. I would prefer to avoid walking all those stairs to my quarters. Have a good night, Remus."

"You as well, Professor," Remus replied as the green flames engulfed Dumbledore, whisking him away.