Chapter 3
The Fidelius Charm
Once they returned to Grimmauld Place, Harry, Cassiopeia, and Arcturus settled in the sitting room, Harry sitting between his new guardians. The boy clutched the parchment of his parents' will tightly in his small hands.
"I want to understand everything," he said, his voice filled with a determination that made both Arcturus and Cassiopeia exchange proud glances. "Could we go through it all? I want to talk about everything... everything in the will," Harry began, his small hands fidgeting in his lap.
"Of course, Harry, We'll answer any questions you have," Arcturus replied warmly, picking up the parchment and unfurling it across the coffee table. "This is your legacy, and it's your right to know everything about it."
As they delved into the will, Harry's eyes first went to the name 'Sirius Black.' He looked up from the parchment, a mixture of curiosity and confusion painting his features. "Who's Sirius?" he asked, turning towards Cassiopeia and Arcturus.
Arcturus exchanged a glance with Cassiopeia before clearing his throat. "Sirius... Sirius Black is your godfather, Harry. He is also my Grandson and your cousin," he said, a hint of sadness seeping into his voice.
"He was your father's best friend, Harry. They were as close as brothers. Your parents trusted Sirius with their lives, and when you were born, they asked him to be your godfather," Cassiopeia added softly, her gaze gentle upon Harry.
Harry absorbed this information, his young mind working to understand the significance of these relationships. "Why isn't he here then?" he asked innocently, prompting a sigh from Arcturus.
"That's a rather complicated story, Harry," Arcturus admitted, leaning back in his chair. "Sirius is... he's currently in Azkaban. It's a place for those who break the law in the wizarding world."
Harry's eyes widened. "But why?"
"He was accused of betraying your parents to Voldemort and causing the death of twelve Muggles. But your parents' will clearly states that Peter Pettigrew was their secret keeper, not Sirius. It's a mystery that we need to unravel, Harry. We believe Sirius is innocent."
Harry nodded, a determined look settling on his features. "Then we'll get him out. We have to help him."
Arcturus and Cassiopeia shared a look, both of them filled with a newfound determination. "Absolutely, Harry," Arcturus said firmly, "We will do everything in our power to help Sirius."
"And we will make sure," Cassiopeia added, "that everyone knows the truth about what happened that night."
As Harry continued reading, he stopped again when he came across another name he didn't recognize. "Who's Remus Lupin?" he asked, peering curiously at his guardians.
Cassiopeia and Arcturus exchanged a glance before Cassiopeia spoke. "Remus was a very good friend of your parents, Harry. He, along with Sirius and your father, were inseparable during their time at Hogwarts."
Arcturus took over the explanation, a fond smile playing on his lips. "They called themselves 'The Marauders.' They were a bit of a troublemaker group, always causing mischief around the castle. Remus, however, was the most level-headed of the group, always trying to keep James and Sirius out of too much trouble."
Harry's face lit up with interest. "So, he's a good man? Can he be willing to be my Guardian?" he asked, hope lighting up his eyes.
"Very much so, Harry," Cassiopeia confirmed, her gaze affectionate. "In fact, he was a part of the Order of the Phoenix with your parents during the war. He's always been loyal to your family. But there's a bit more to it. He hasn't been in contact with the magical world since your parents'... passing. We believe he's been living a very private life."
Harry's brows knitted together, his fingers tracing the name 'Remus Lupin' on the parchment. "Is he... is he okay?" he asked, his concern evident.
"We're not certain, Harry," Arcturus admitted, struggling with how much to reveal about Remus's condition. It wouldn't be right to keep it from Harry, but at the same time, they didn't want to burden the boy with too many complexities too soon.
"Remus is... different," Cassiopeia said carefully. "He's a werewolf, which makes his life a bit more complicated than most."
"Being a werewolf isn't easy, Harry," Arcturus added. "Many in our world are prejudiced against those afflicted. But remember, it's not our abilities that show who we truly are. It's our choice's."
"Can I meet him?" Harry asked, looking at his guardians. His request took them by surprise, but they exchanged an approving glance.
"We'll try our best, Harry," Arcturus assured, his heart swelling with pride for the boy's openness and willingness to understand his family's history. "We'll try our best."
Harry remained silent, pondering their words. "Also, could we help him too, him being a Werewolf? Like we're going to help Sirius?" he asked earnestly, looking between his two guardians.
Arcturus and Cassiopeia exchanged a proud glance. "Yes, Harry," Arcturus said, smiling softly at the boy. "I think we'd very much like to try."
Harry's small finger moved along the parchment again, and he paused at the names of Alice Longbottom and Neville. He glanced up at Arcturus and Cassiopeia. "Alice is also listed as my guardian, and it says here that Neville is my parent's godson. What does that mean?"
"Alice Longbottom was a very dear friend of your mother, Lily. They both joined the Order of the Phoenix together and fought side-by-side against Voldemort," Cassiopeia explained, a touch of sorrow in her eyes.
Arcturus continued, his voice steady, "Neville is Alice's son. He was born just one day before you, Harry. Your parents and the Longbottoms were very close, and they made each other's sons their godsons."
Harry's eyes widened in surprise. "So, I have a godbrother? Where is he? Can I meet him?"
Cassiopeia sighed, her heart heavy. "Neville is... he's going through a tough time, Harry. His parents, Alice and Frank, were tortured into insanity by Death Eaters. They are currently in St. Mungo's, unable to recognize anyone, even Neville. He's being raised by his grandmother."
Harry was silent for a moment, taking in the heavy news. He was beginning to realize that his parents' world, his world, had been filled with joy but also marred by immense pain and loss.
"Could we... could we help them too? Maybe visit them?" Harry asked. He remembered what Arcturus had told him before, about how their choices showed who they were. He wanted to choose kindness, like his mother.
Arcturus and Cassiopeia exchanged a proud look. Their little heir was proving to be braver and kinder than they could have ever imagined. "We'll certainly try, Harry," Arcturus promised. "It might be a bit complicated, but we'll do our best. That's all we can ever do."
As Harry traced his finger along the parchment again, he came upon the name ' McGonagall.' He looked up at Arcturus and Cassiopeia. "It says here Minerva McGonagall is also listed as one of my guardians. Why didn't she visit or take me in?"
Arcturus and Cassiopeia exchanged another look. It seemed the conversation was just filled with those moments, but it was understandable. Discussing the complexities of the past wasn't an easy task, especially when explaining them to a six-year-old.
Cassiopeia spoke first. "Minerva McGonagall is a highly respected witch, Harry. She was also your father's Godmother, a part of the Order of the Phoenix, and fought alongside your parents. After your parents passed, Dumbledore... well, he made certain decisions."
Arcturus picked up the thread. "Dumbledore is a persuasive and very manipulative man, Harry, and he has a lot of influence in our world. He must have convinced Minerva and others that it was in your best interest to stay with the Dursleys. To be honest, I'm not sure if she knew about the abuse you were enduring."
"But if she's my guardian, wouldn't she know?" Harry asked, confusion clouding his face.
"In an ideal world, yes," Cassiopeia sighed. "But things have been far from ideal, Harry. Many things were done in haste and under duress. And I'm afraid some people may have trusted Dumbledore's judgment more than they should have."
His little finger moved over the names again, and he stopped at another, unfamiliar one. "Peter Pettigrew," Harry read aloud, looking up at Arcturus and Cassiopeia, his green eyes filled with questions. "It says here that he was the secret keeper. What does that mean? And who is he?"
There was a slight pause. This part of the story was a painful one to recount. Arcturus cleared his throat, looking at Harry with a heavy heart. "Peter Pettigrew was a friend of your parents, Harry. He was a part of their group at Hogwarts, along with Sirius and Remus."
Cassiopeia continued, her voice steady, "When your parents knew they were in danger from Voldemort, they went into hiding. They used a special spell called the 'Fidelius Charm' which can hide a secret inside a single, living soul. The one who holds the secret is called the Secret Keeper. In this case, that was Pettigrew."
"But, something went terribly wrong," Arcturus added, his voice gruff with old, painful memories. "Peter Pettigrew betrayed your parents, Harry. He gave up their location to Voldemort, and... well, you know what happened then."
Harry still had a question "What does that mean? Fidelius Charm?"
Cassiopeia started explaining "Well, my dear, the Fidelius Charm is an immensely powerful and ancient enchantment in the wizarding world. You see, the Fidelius Charm is cast on a secret, a piece of highly sensitive information, or people that someone wants to protect from falling into the wrong hands. When this charm is performed, the secret becomes hidden inside the soul of a chosen person called the Secret Keeper. Only the Secret Keeper knows the secret, and they alone can reveal it to others.
It's like having a hidden treasure, but instead of burying it underground, the secret is safeguarded within a person's mind. The information becomes so well-protected that even the most skilled and cunning magical beings cannot find it unless the Secret Keeper willingly divulges it.
Now, here's where the seriousness lies. The choice of a Secret-Keeper is critical, as their trustworthiness is paramount. They must be someone the secret-holder can fully rely on, someone who would never betray the trust placed upon them. The secret can be a matter of life and death, which is why the Fidelius Charm is often used to safeguard the location of important places or the identities of important individuals.
If, by any chance, the Secret-Keeper were to betray the secret or reveal it unintentionally, the protection would break, leaving the hidden information exposed and vulnerable. This could lead to grave consequences, endangering the lives of those the secret was meant to protect. In your parent's case, their trust in Peter was the mistake."
The room fell silent, the bitter truth hanging heavy in the air. Harry sat quietly, his mind trying to wrap itself around the betrayal. He felt a sour taste in his mouth. "So...Peter is the bad person?"
Arcturus and Cassiopeia both nodded, not sugarcoating the truth. "Yes, Harry. Peter Pettigrew is a traitor. He was a Gryffindor, a friend, and he betrayed everyone. But remember this, not everyone in the world is like him. There is far more good than bad," Cassiopeia reassured.
"And we'll protect you, Harry," Arcturus promised. "We won't let anyone hurt you anymore." The little boy looked at them, a glimmer of trust shining in his emerald eyes. He nodded, comforted by their assurance and emboldened by their honesty.
Harry's finger this time halted at the name 'Albus Dumbledore.' His gaze flicked up to meet his great-uncle and great-aunt's eyes. "Why does it say Dumbledore is the executor of the will? Why didn't he... execute it? And why did he take money from the Potter vault? Also... why did he leave me with the Dursleys?"
A long silence fell over the room, the questions lingering in the air. They were heavy, pressing ones that Harry had every right to ask. Arcturus and Cassiopeia shared a look, each knowing that the answers were even more complicated than the questions.
Cassiopeia began, her voice calm and even, "Albus Dumbledore is a highly respected wizard, Harry. He was a great help during the first war against Voldemort. He was also the headmaster of Hogwarts, where your parents studied. People trust him because of his reputation and the good he's done."
Arcturus took over, his voice carrying a hint of bitterness. "But not everyone is as they appear, Harry. Dumbledore, for some reason, decided to seal your parents' will and not carry out their wishes. We don't know why he did it. We Blacks always believed he is extremely manipulative and will use people as pawns in his game."
"As for the money," Cassiopeia continued, "We are yet to understand why he took it, we think he is using it to fund Order of Pheonix members. We'll be investigating that and make sure it's returned to your vault."
"And about the Dursleys..." Arcturus began slowly, "Dumbledore believed that living with them would keep you safe. But he didn't check on you, didn't ensure you were well taken care of. That, Harry, was a grave mistake on his part."
The room fell silent as Harry absorbed this information. There was a lot to process and understand, and some parts were downright scary. But knowing the truth was better than living in the dark, and Harry was grateful that he had Arcturus and Cassiopeia to help guide him through it.
The conversation had moved on, but Harry's eyes kept returning to one particular line in the will. Eventually, curiosity overcame him, and he pointed at the script. "What is this about...a marriage contract with Daphne Greengrass? What does it mean?"
Cassiopeia reached for an elaborately decorated scroll, unfurling it with care. It was an official document, covered with a formal script that glittered like liquid gold. She scanned the text briefly before responding.
Title: The Unbreakable Union - A Marriage Contract between Potter and Greengrass
In the realm of wizardry and magic, on this day, the 26th of July in the year 1675, we, the esteemed families of Potter and Greengrass, do hereby solemnly and irrevocably forge a marriage contract between our beloved families, The firstborn male Potter and The firstborn female Greengrass. This contract, bound by magical law and familial duty, shall ensure the prosperity and continuance of our esteemed lineages.
Article I - Union of Houses:
In pursuance of fostering unity and securing the wealth and magical legacies of both the Potter and Greengrass families, The firstborn male Potter and The firstborn female Greengrass because of a life debt shall be joined in holy matrimony.
Article II - Conditions for Marriage:
a) Both the first-born male Potter and The first-born female Greengrass, upon reaching the age of majority (at least 17 summers), shall be wed in a sacred ceremony witnessed by magical representatives from each family.
b) Until the prescribed age for marriage, both parties shall receive proper magical education and upbringing in accordance with their family traditions.
Article III - Family Wealth and Inheritance:
a) The marriage between The firstborn male Potter and The firstborn female Greengrass shall serve as an immutable condition for the inheritance and possession of their respective family wealth, properties, and magical heirlooms.
b) In the event that either party chooses not to honor this contract, all rights to their family inheritance shall be forfeited.
Article IV - Domicile and Property:
a) Upon their union, The firstborn male Potter and The firstborn female Greengrass shall establish their marital domicile in a residence that befits their esteemed status.
b) Both parties shall jointly manage the family properties and estates, ensuring their growth and preservation for future generations.
Article V - Mutual Respect and Love:
a) The first-born male Potter and The firstborn female Greengrass shall endeavor to cultivate mutual respect, understanding, and affection within their marriage.
b) Both parties shall support each other's magical pursuits and endeavors.
Article VI - Dissolution of Marriage:
a) The marriage contract shall be binding until death do them part or until both parties willingly and mutually agree to dissolve the union in the presence of a recognized magical authority.
b) In case of separation due to unforeseen circumstances, both parties shall conduct themselves with honor and integrity, maintaining the dignity of both families.
Article VII - Magical Oath:
The first-born male Potter and The first-born female Greengrass shall solemnly swear a magical oath to uphold and abide by the terms and conditions of this marriage contract. Violation of this oath shall incur severe magical consequences.
In witness whereof, the representatives of the Potter and Greengrass families affix their signatures and seal this marriage contract, conjuring the most potent magical wards to protect its integrity throughout the ages.
Signed and sealed on this day, the 26th of July, in the 1675 year of our realm.
Signatures of the Potter and Greengrass Family Representatives,
William Alorian Potter
Zephyr Lucian Greengrass
"In the magical world, Harry, marriage contracts are an old tradition, though less common in recent times," she began after finishing the scroll. "Families often arrange marriages to build alliances, consolidate power, or, as in this case, to protect and transfer family wealth."
Arcturus elaborated further. "Your ancestors arranged this contract with the Greengrass family. It means that to claim the Potter family wealth in full when you come of age, you would have to marry Daphne Greengrass. This must have happened as a life debt between both families, I also think till now there has never been The firstborn male Potter and The firstborn female Greengrass in their families. Take your father's generation for example, James is the firstborn of the Potter family and William is the firstborn of the Greengrass family. "
Harry blinked, digesting this piece of information. It was so utterly foreign to him. "But...I don't even know her." He looked horrified at the thought. "And I'm just six years old! I don't want to get married!"
Cassiopeia gave him a reassuring smile. "You won't have to, Harry, not until you're seventeen and you don't have to decide anything now, Harry. You're just a child. For now, know that we're here for you and we'll guide you. We have time to discuss these matters in depth when you're older. In the meantime, You can first meet her and then decide. She's also your own age, Maybe you both will like her. Who knows?"
"Indeed," added Arcturus. "Despite what's written, your happiness is our primary concern, Harry. We will not force you into anything, if you don't want to marry her in the future, we will then see about the consequences."
The conversation eased some of Harry's worries. He nodded, trusting his new family to navigate him through the complexity of the magical world.
As he reached the end of the will, there has been another scroll next to it, Harry's eyes, previously filled with confusion, now flared with curiosity. "But what about this Ginny person? There was another contract?"
Arcturus gave a sigh, his fingers drumming lightly against the table. "Yes, Harry. There was another contract made by Albus Dumbledore, with Molly Weasley's assistance. It appears that they wanted to control the Potter's wealth by marrying you to Ginny Weasley."
Cassiopeia chimed in, her voice stern. "It was a manipulative plan, and thankfully, we discovered it. We managed to destroy that contract."
"Destroy?" Harry's eyebrows shot up, surprised. "Can we do that?"
Cassiopeia nodded. "When the parties involved in the contract act with deceit, the contract can be voided. Dumbledore and Mrs. Weasley's intentions were not honest, and that allowed us to nullify the contract."
Arcturus gave Harry a steady look. "In essence, Harry, you don't have to worry about any contracts with Ginny Weasley."
Harry's young mind spun, but he managed a small nod, the storm of information a whirlwind within his thoughts. Despite the overwhelming facts and revelations, a small sense of relief flooded him. At least he had Arcturus and Cassiopeia, who were willing to fight for his freedom and rights. And for that, he felt a touch more secure in the strange world he was rapidly becoming a part of.
"Harry," Arcturus then began gently, "We need to start rebuilding your life and connections. You need to know the people who cared about your parents and those who your parents wished to be in your life."
Cassiopeia procured some parchment, quill, and ink from a nearby drawer, spreading them out on the table in front of Harry. "We suggest you write to Remus Lupin, Minerva McGonagall, and Neville Longbottom. They were important to your parents, and they should know you're safe and sound."
Harry looked at the blank parchment, his expression a mixture of curiosity and apprehension. "But I don't know what to say."
"That's okay, Harry," Cassiopeia reassured him. "Just introduce yourself and tell them that you're safe. You can ask them to visit if you want. Would you like that?"
Harry nodded, taking the quill in his hand. "I'd like to meet them. They knew my parents, right?"
Arcturus nodded, "Indeed, they did. Especially Remus and Minerva. And Neville is your age, his parents were friends with yours."
For the next few minutes, the room was quiet, the only sound being the scratch of quill on parchment as Harry penned his letters with careful, shaky letters. When he was done, Arcturus called Kreacher, who came with a small bow.
"Master called Kreacher?" The house-elf asked, eyes landing on the letters in Harry's hand.
"Yes, Kreacher," Arcturus responded. "Could you please give these letters to the family owls and make sure they deliver these letters to Remus Lupin, Minerva McGonagall, and the Longbottom residence?"
With a nod, Kreacher extended his hand, taking the letters from Harry. "Of course, Master. Kreacher will give these letters to the family owls."
With that, the house elf vanished, leaving a sense of anticipation behind. Harry, looking somewhat somber, turned his gaze to his great-uncle. "Can we... can we do something about Sirius? I mean, the will says he is my godfather. Shouldn't he be with me?"
Arcturus looked at Harry for a long moment, then sighed deeply. "Yes, you're correct, Harry. And your parents trusted him enough to make him your godfather. But he's been in Azkaban since the night your parents died, without a trial."
Harry's eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "Without a trial? But isn't that unfair?"
"Yes, Harry, it is very unfair," Cassiopeia affirmed. "But Sirius was accused of betraying your parents to You-Know-Who and causing the death of twelve Muggles by blowing up a street. The authorities were swift and merciless."
"But the will said that Peter Pettigrew was the Secret Keeper," Harry protested, "not Sirius."
"Indeed," Arcturus agreed, his features hardening. "And it's time someone in power knows this information. I'm going to write a letter to Amelia Bones. She's the Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement at the Ministry of Magic. If anyone can help Sirius get a fair trial, it's her."
Picking up a fresh piece of parchment, Arcturus began to write, his words clear and concise as he requested a meeting with Madam Bones, he finished it and sent it through an owl.
Days had passed, with the household in a buzz of activity and anticipation. Then, early one morning, an owl swooped into the dining room, a letter attached to its leg. Arcturus untied the parchment, his eyes scanning the words swiftly.
"Madam Bones has responded," he announced, looking at Cassiopeia and Harry. His voice was steady, but his hands trembled slightly. "She has agreed to meet with us tomorrow."
Relief washed over Cassiopeia's face. "Thank goodness," she sighed, her fingers interlacing with Arcturus's. "This could be the start of a fair trial for Sirius."
Harry, who had been anxiously waiting for this news, wore a small smile. He was still trying to understand the complexities of the wizarding world, but he knew this was good news.
"Yes, it certainly is good news," Arcturus echoed Harry's thoughts. "But remember, Harry, justice sometimes moves slowly. We can hope for the best, but we should be prepared for challenges."
Harry nodded, his young heart filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Tomorrow, they would meet with one of the most influential people in the magical world, and Harry couldn't help but hope that this would bring him closer to his godfather, Sirius Black.
The next day, Arcturus and Cassiopeia found themselves walking through the grand halls of the Ministry of Magic. Underneath the bustling energy of the Ministry, there was an air of purpose that underlined their steps. They were guided to an office on the second floor, the sign on the door reading 'Amelia Bones - Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement'.
Amelia was seated behind a massive desk, her stern face looking up as the Blacks were announced. "Lord Black, Lady Black," she greeted them, her voice formal but not unfriendly. "Please, have a seat."
"Thank you, Madam Bones, We have a matter of grave importance to discuss," Arcturus replied, taking a seat across from her. Beside him, Cassiopeia sat down as well, her posture straight and her face set in a determined expression.
"Let's get straight to it, then," Amelia leaned back in her chair, her sharp gaze never leaving them.
Arcturus nodded, "It has come to our attention that there may have been a gross miscarriage of justice regarding the case of Sirius Black. We've recently come into possession of a document that casts doubt on the charges against him."
Amelia's eyebrows shot up in surprise but she remained silent, urging him to continue.
He took out a copy of the Potter family will, carefully protected in a charm-enhanced folder, and handed it to her. Amelia read it, her brow furrowing as she took in the details. She looked up from the will, her gaze serious.
"This indeed changes the narrative. However, the process to revisit the case will not be easy. There's a lot of bureaucracy to overcome, especially with the case being as high profile as it is."
"We understand that, Madam Bones," Cassiopeia spoke up, her voice firm. "But we believe Sirius deserves a fair trial, and we're willing to do whatever it takes to ensure he gets one."
Amelia Bones nodded, seemingly appreciating their resolve. "Very well. I'll initiate the process. But remember, the wheels of justice might turn slow. In the meantime, ensure your... family matters remain confidential."
They thanked her and left the office, their hearts heavy but hopeful. As they made their way back home, they knew they had taken the first step in a long journey to justice for Sirius Black.
The days following their meeting with Madam Bones were filled with restless anticipation. Each morning, Arcturus would pace by the window, waiting for an owl. Each evening, Cassiopeia would reassure Harry that they were doing everything they could. The days were tense, but the Blacks bore it with stoic patience.
Then, a week after their meeting, a familiar owl swooped into the dining room, a letter attached to its leg. Arcturus quickly untied the parchment and scanned the words swiftly.
12-04-1986,
Lord Arcturus Black
12 Grimmauld Place,
London
Greetings Lord Black,
I hope this letter finds you in good health and spirits. I am writing to inform you of an urgent and crucial matter that requires your immediate attention.
As Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, it is my duty to uphold the principles of justice and fairness within the wizarding community. Recent developments have led us to reexamine the case of Sirius Black, and I have been presented with compelling evidence that demands immediate action.
Upon the copy of the Last Will and Testament of James and Lily Potter, as submitted by you, crucial information has come to light that could potentially alter the course of Sirius Black's trial. This evidence has raised questions about his alleged involvement in the tragic events that unfolded on the night of October 31st.
In light of this new evidence, I have decided to arrange an emergency trial for Sirius Black. The trial will be conducted before a specially convened Wizengamot panel, with impartial members of the highest standing and experience. The trial shall commence one week from the date of this letter.
Please attend this trial, Lord Black,Your presence as a Lord of the House of Black is crucial in ensuring a fair and just hearing.
I must impress upon you the utmost confidentiality of this matter. Given the sensitive nature of the case, it is imperative that no information regarding the trial or its proceedings be disclosed to any unauthorized individuals.
The trial will be held at the Wizengamot Courtroom within the Ministry of Magic. Upon your arrival, kindly present this letter to the Aurors stationed at the entrance, and they will guide you to the designated courtroom.
The Ministry is committed to uncovering the truth and serving justice to all parties involved. We must ensure that the proper course of law is followed and that no innocent party is wrongfully convicted.
I trust in your sense of duty and integrity, Lord Black, and I am confident that you will assist us in our quest for truth and justice. I look forward to your cooperation in this matter.
Yours sincerely,
Amelia Bones
Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement
Wizengamot Elder
"She's done it," Arcturus announced, his voice filled with relief and surprise. "Amelia Bones has managed to arrange an emergency trial for Sirius."
Harry, who had been fidgeting in his seat, looked up with wide eyes. "Really? So soon?"
Cassiopeia smiled at him, her hand reaching out to hold his. "Yes, Harry. It seems Madam Bones is quite efficient. The trial is in a week."
The tension that had built up over the last few days seemed to lift, replaced with a sense of hope and excitement. They knew that a trial was just the first step in proving Sirius's innocence, but it was a significant one.
Over the next week, the house was a flurry of activity as they prepared for the trial. Despite the uncertainty of what the trial would bring, there was a glimmer of hope that had not been there before. After all, Sirius was finally getting a chance to tell his side of the story, and that was more than they had hoped for just a few weeks ago.
To be continued…..
A/N:Hi guys, A little request. Please let me know if should I write the letter Remus, McGonagall, and Neville receives in the next chapter or just carry on with the trail without writing them.
Also, should I make Arcturus and Cassiopeia more blunt and sarcastic with others?
