Chapter 13: Release the beasts
Things at Hogwarts were tense as the students were quite shaken by the battle. Professor Potter destroyed Magadan and Chukotka and a good portion of Kamchatka Krai. Nobody knew what to make of it as they'd never seen spells like the ones he used before. While some could trace back their family histories and had access to different types of magic, nothing could have prepared them for what they'd just witnessed. However, on the upside, they at least knew that Potter wouldn't go after them unless provoked. Contrary to what Fudge wanted them to believe, several of them had their own opinions of Harry.
Speaking of their professor, he'd been absent for the first half of the day, and it was during lunch that they understood why. The International Press gave an exclusive report saying Lord Potter gave away two of the three basilisks. One to the people of magical India, the other to the people in the Far East. The former, because being a parseltongue was considered sacred. At the same time, the latter was used as compensation for destroying parts of their territory. When pressed for information about the last one? He replied that he had plans for the deceased beast and left it at that. Harry explained its capabilities when the conversation shifted to his flight suit, surprising everyone. The day news ended with him announcing the co-owner Miwa Kawada and when the people could expect the suits to be put on the market.
"Damn being able to fly without a broom sounds like a dream come true," Tracey exclaimed as she, Blaise, Lilith, and Neville made their way to the library.
"You're telling me," Lilith was of the same mindset.
Meanwhile, Blaise and Neville shook their heads as they began thinking about flying through the air. It surprised them that Emily already had a suit of her own. Sparking a little of their jealousy.
"How much do you think they'll cost?" The dark-skinned boy asked.
"Hard to say," casually shrugging her shoulders, answered Tracey as they walked into the library. Shortly after entering, the three lowered their voices. They went to find an open table so they could begin their independent studies. "Though if I had to guess, I'd say as low as a couple hundred galleons and high as a Firebolt. When it first came out."
Clicking his tongue, Neville took a seat opposite of them. "I can hardly wait. The idea of flying without a broom is almost a dream come true. Though I have to wonder…" looking at the Defense book, they should have had it at the beginning, not the one from the Ministry.
"Wonder what?" Lilith asked.
"How Professor Umbridge and Fudge will respond. Those were some of us his biggest financial backers and the people he pardoned after the first war," Neville explained.
"True," a chuckling Blaise cracked his knuckles. "However, we have things they will never have, and one is… unquestioning loyalty. No strings attached."
Nodding in agreement, they took out their class materials and began studying and writing their essays. Thanks to some of the past fifth-years, they were able to get ahold of the Defense Against the Dark Arts syllabus.
Sometime later, Tracey sighed in relief, throwing her head back, "finally done." Pushing her now-completed essays away. "Leave it to Professors McGonagall and Snape to assign us the biggest assignments."
Closing his business book, Blaise turned his head, "at least they're done. Now you can relax for a while."
"No, I have to study for government," she retorted.
"Well, you're not alone," Lilith remarked, pushing her Defense book beside her Runes homework. She wants to be a professional spell crafter, meaning she will have to excel in all her classes, especially in Runes and Arithmancy. "I also have to study for government."
"Guys, let's take a break," Neville suggested as he glanced at his watch. "We have time before dinner, so let's take advantage of the time we have to gather our thoughts and blow off some steam."
"I'm with you," Blaise put his stuff in his bag. Lilith wasn't far behind as she, too, was tired. Finally, a reluctant Tracey put her books and essays away. Together, the four left the library and went their separate ways; Tracey took Blaise's hand and dragged him to another section of the castle's corridors.
Before he could utter a word, her lips formed a mischievous smile as she stood in front of a classroom door. "In here." He, too, adopted a mischievous smile after realizing what he had in mind. Opening the door, the two went in. Tracey immediately threw her arms around his neck, pressing their lips together as he closed the door with his foot. Relishing in the intimacy, Blaise lifted her up where she, wrapped her legs around his back, and he carried her to a table.
The two hormonal teenagers kissed each other hungrily, trying to relieve their tensions of the day. Unfortunately, their lungs started to burn after ten minutes, and they broke apart for air.
"Glad to see I'm not the only one who wanted to forget about today," Tracey commented with a smile.
"You have no idea, babe," kissing her again. "At least this is a Hogsmede weekend, and we can relax."
"Agreed. Though as much fun as the village is, I know something that is more fun…" She suggestively said, giving him a knowing look which he returned.
"Great minds think alike," reclaiming her lips with his, the two started another makeout session. Still, this one was more passionate than the last. Blaise rubbed his hands along her back, with one going lower to cup her arse, causing her to moan as their tongues danced with one another. He had to admit that despite the grueling and intensiveness of his best friend's workout sessions, they've done well for Tracey's body as she filled out in certain areas.
Something similar ran through Tracey's mind. In the beginning, she loathed doing any physical work as she was a teenager. Like every teenager, she despised working out. But after realizing the benefits and how her body changed, she now understood why people trained. Her boyfriend certainly liked what he'd seen. She, too, admired the results of their workouts as he was tall, gained a six-pack, and his arms had a fair amount of muscle.
Later that day in the Hall, students and professors were sat at their respective tables having dinner. Tension radiated from the Slytherin table, more specifically from Draco's group. A few of their fellow housemates offered their condolences to them or losing their fathers along with their various homes, businesses, money, and artifacts.
No one was more shocked than Professor Dumbledore as he silently ignored the food before him to think about Harry's growing power. He snapped his eyes forward when he felt the wards go off, alerting him of Harry's return. Then out of nowhere, he appeared at the entrance of the Great Hall with nothing but a cold expression on his face. The fire in his green eyes let everyone know that he had just gone into battle. For Dumbledore, he'd seen the same look from the boy's grandfather numerous times, and it sent chills down his spine.
Unfazed by the stares being directed, Harry strode to the Head table and sat next to Professor Flitwick. The silence of the Hall allowed him a few minutes to think though it didn't last as someone from the Slytherin table screamed.
"You murdering son of a bitch! You killed him!" The attention shifted to an angry Pansy Parkinson, who stood up trembling.
"What did you expect?" Harry coolly asked, lifting his eyes up. "In a life or death situation, one must be willing to do whatever it takes to survive. You were foolish to think I wouldn't do to him what he did to others. Unlike our pacifist Headmaster," gesturing to Dumbledore, "I don't go around spouting garbage about the 'greater good' and 'giving second chances' to those who are corrupt beyond comprehension."
"You're a monster," Pansy tried to fight back her tears.
A dark laugh escaped his lips, captivating the entire body. "I would appreciate it if you didn't lump me in with those weaklings." Everyone stared, gobsmacked, with some having their jaws hit the ground. "No. I am not a monster. I'm worse. Far worse! I am wrath. I am death! I am justice. Your father was a murderer and a thief who got what he deserved for what he did to others during the last war. He and his friends served Voldemort," brushing off the gasps at the use of his name "without question. When their master fell, they pleaded to being placed under the imperius curse to get free. Their foolish belief in thinking they were safe hiding behind their wealth and that buffoon of a Minister was a mistake as they believed themselves untouchable. Rather pathetic and signs of a coward. Too happy to plead for forgiveness and hide behind their money and connections rather than owning up to their mistakes like adults."
"Maybe now, you will understand how their victims felt when they had no way out and were slaughtered. No longer will you or your friends' families be able to hide and kill whoever they want. Make no mistake that scum such as your father will survive a clash with me should they cross my path." He teleported until he was only a few inches from her. Staring directly into her eyes with nothing but cold darkness, "consider this your first and only warning. The next time your family decides to cross me will be the last as I will wipe out the House of Parkinson starting with you. Do not for one minute think that you are safe because the moment you take the dark mark, you will meet the same fate as your father. That's a promise!" The cold darkness of his eyes intensified as his voice grew deadly.
Finally, Pansy fell to her knees, crying her heart out as he walked back to his seat without a care in the world. The professors and staff members were shocked by what they'd just witnessed. None had deigned to utter a word as they could tell that Potter was not playing, and the expression on his face said it all. Though not nearly all of them, Severus, Roxanne, Minerva, and Filius knew differently. Harry was not someone who took pleasure in killing. He did it because he had to, as the system was broken. The powerful preyed upon the weak by bullying, threatening, and slaughtering innocents.
After dinner, Albus asked for Severus and Minerva to meet with him in his office. Taking a seat behind his desk Albus massaged his temples and pulled out a bottle of Old Ogden and three glasses. The three professors lifted their glasses and drank, with Dumbledore chugging his down like water, then pouring another glass.
"This is quite troubling," Dumbledore sighed and leaned back in his chair. I fear that young Harry heading down a dark path. The way he killed those people and his choice of spells are most concerning," stroking his beard.
Severus sneered, "headmaster, I believe we have more important things to discuss. There's no question that Potter has grown powerful and very dangerous…but only towards people he views as enemies." He coolly stated. "The only thing he did was send a message saying he was not going to back down and that his enemies should beware."
"How do you think Voldemort will react to this latest development?" Minerva eyed him, taking a sip of her drink. "This will most definitely cause a stir and impact the number of followers he might gain."
"The dark lord will be incensed. There is no doubt he did not see the battle," he replied. "He was most displeased with the people who died today after they failed to find him and how they went after Potter during his trial. I'm afraid he's taking torture to a new level."
"What do you mean, Severus?" Albus enquired.
"You are no doubt aware of how he reacts to those who fail him," swirling the contents of his drink around. Albus nodded.
"Yes, Tom has always taken pleasure in causing others pain either for amusement or to vent his anger. Most of the time he would just kill them."
"That was then!" Severus interjected. "Shortly after his return in late August, he's found other ways to torture the people who fail him." Explaining the methods of torture was unsettling, to say the least. Minerva went deathly pale and shuddered in fear. Albus's eyes became wider.
"It seems like his sadistic nature has grown, and I don't pretend to wonder what he'll do about today's events. But how does that solve our Harry problem?"
"For Merlin's sake Albus," facepalming himself. "What will it take for you to finally leave that boy alone? He may not have any love for the dark lord, but you are not his favorite person at the moment. I do not doubt that he has a dark side; however, at least he can keep it under control. If you continue to persist, that darkness might break free and attack anyone nearby."
"I'm sorry, Severus, but Harry and Voldemort share many similar characteristics. Therefore, we must prepare in case a third dark lord arises."
"You cannot believe that he would fall so far," a scandalized Minerva looked directly at him. "Sure, Mr. Potter can be dangerous and ruthless, but it's mainly to survive. To even suggest that he would…"
"Minerva, Harry has a lot of anger in him. Despite what you wish to believe, he has the potential to become even worse than Voldemort."
Someone from behind scoffed, diverting attention elsewhere. Phineas stared loathingly at the current headmaster, "you are so damn stupid. The reason for his anger is because you decided to play god with his life. Morgana's tits, you're over a hundred years old and still can't see past your own failures. Fucking unbelievable!"
"We can argue my decisions later, Phineas. What do you recommend on how to handle the situation."
The old professor chuckled, "yeah, 'later.' Knowing you, that means never… Want my advice? Start listening to your potion's master and leave Potter alone."
"Unfortunately, I cannot. Too many things need to be done, and I fear time is running out."
"You old fool," Phineas shook his head. He watched as the three professors continued to discuss the development. How someone could be so old and so stupid was beyond him. There's an old saying do not rock the boat. It strictly means you shouldn't bite off more than you can chew, or the consequences could be fatal.
In another section of the castle, Harry sat on the couch in front of the fire. Sleep was not something that would come easy; especially not after the battle he had. A warrior he might be, but that didn't mean that he enjoyed the idea of killing. If anything, he abhorred it and only did so others could live. Doing what he had to rather than what he wanted was sometimes challenging. That often included doing things that would bring horrible nightmares and cost him many sleepless nights.
Dressed in her pajamas, Daphne left their bedroom after sensing his inner turmoil. Rounding the sofa, she snuggled close to him, "you should be sleeping."
"So should you," she retorted. "Do you want to talk about it?"
"I had to. But—"
"You didn't want to," she finished for him. "You can fool many people with that cold exterior of yours, but not me. I see you doing what must be done so the innocents can live. If they only knew the toil, it takes…the pain it causes you. Too many people ask too much of you. All without concern with what you want."
They spent the next couple of hours talking until they eventually fell asleep on the sofa as the fire crackled.
(0^0)
Two days later, the students went to the Hogsmeade village to enjoy themselves. The girls were excited as they would get to browse through the new winter collection at Twilift & Tatterings, much to the boy's dismay. Blaise groaned as his excited girlfriend dragged him inside the shop.
"Remind me again why Harry decided not to join us?" He grumbled.
"Professor Flitwick assigned him a project about the Fidelius charm. He wants to see if it can be altered and used for other means," Emily answered. "Plus, after his duel in the Far East, I think he could use a little time to himself."
She knew the battle had been hard on him and figured he'd want some silence and alone time.
"It's hard to believe that he actually destroyed two countries," Katie commented, rubbing her hands together, still feeling cold. "I cannot imagine they were too happy with what he did."
"Normally, you would be right," Neville came in, "but Harry had permission to use their territory. Did that make it any better? No. However, this was a sanctioned duel, so he was spared any legal repercussions."
"All right, enough talk. Ladies, let's go enjoy ourselves," Lilith said with a big smile. Agreeing with her, they spread out to scope out the new set of clothes.
Daphne and Tracey were the first to enter the changing room with a handful of different clothes.
"So tell me more about this new villa. What is it supposed to look like?" Tracey asked while trying on the first of several tops and jeans.
"It's a beautiful home and quite expensive, to tell the truth," Daphne began. "I didn't believe it at first, but for a luxury villa like the one, he's having built… it's indescribable." Remembering the beautiful model, he showed her. The home was beautiful and away from prying eyes. She'd wanted to get a new set of lingerie's, hoping to incite a reaction from her boyfriend.
Often or not, she'd try to get his attention during class. She would have considered it an insult for if not knowing him as long as she had as he had to keep his inner thoughts and emotions in check. While seeing him struggle with his hormones was enjoyable, she wanted them to take the next step in their relationship. At the beginning of July, she had been on the contraceptive potion. The potion was a stronger version of the standard contraceptives as they were designed for those significantly more powerful and reduced the risks of pregnancy. Thankfully, she only had to take it only once every three weeks.
Even her mother, who she previously thought would be miffed by her actions, encouraged her to seduce him. Twirling in front of the mirror, she took a liking to it and pulled out the next set.
"He's already asked me to help with picking out furniture."
"Really? Well, that was a stroke of genius on his part," Tracey replied. "Guys normally…"
"Yes, I know," her friend finished.
In the castle, Harry sat behind his desk, trying to work on the project Filius assigned him. Across his desk were several books, with quite a handful on the floor. So far, he had nothing as he'd spent a couple of hours reading book after book regarding the charm. While the spell was difficult, it was not impossible, and it required two things: the thing or person that wished to be hidden and the person who would keep the location secret. His eyes immediately found what he was looking for in an old blue book, and he began reading earnestly.
When someone knocked on his door, he shifted his gaze to the map behind him to see who it was. Then after confirming who it was, he waved his hand to open the door revealing a second-year Ravenclaw.
"Hello, Professor. I hope I'm not disturbing you?" He seemed nervous. Harry gave him a comforting smile to let him know he was okay to come in.
"It's fine, Mr. Sharp. What can I do for you?"
"Professor Dumbledore wanted me to give you this," handing over a rolled-up parchment.
Dear Harry,
Please come to my office. We have much to discuss your recent activities. Professors Umbridge and Weasley despite my reservations…will also be present on the Minister's behalf.
P.S Cauldron Cakes are more delicious during the winter
Rolling his eyes, he would never understand the headmaster's love of sweets.
"Thank you, Mr. Sharp. Will that be all?"
"Yes, professor," the boy turned around and left the office, closing the door behind him.
Reclining into his chair and releasing a deep sigh, Harry took his wand. First, he added some protective wards to the door to prevent anyone from coming in. Then, reaching through their bonds, he found his animal companions. Genbu was swimming amongst the merfolk, Suzaku soared through the air over France, and Byakko was asleep in his quarters.
Rising out of his seat, he teleported to the entrance of the headmaster's office. "Cauldron cakes," the gargoyle granted him access; walking up the stairs and arriving at the door, he didn't wait for an invitation and just walked in.
"Harry, your still here? I thought you would have gone to Hogsmede," Filius smiled.
"I wanted to get a head start on the charm you assigned me," his casual response caused Delores to frown.
"And what charm would that be?"
"It's part of my apprenticeship.
Delores shifted her eyes to McGonagall and Flitwick, "what are you teaching him?" She demanded sweetly.
"That is not your concern," Minerva answered.
"I am the High Inquisitor. It is my job to—" Harry cut her off.
"Yes, we know it's to spy on the headmaster and me." Harry let out a breath from the corner of his mouth. "Fudge, in his infinite amount of wisdom, assigned you to evaluate the professors to see if they are upholding the school's standards. Too bad his watchdog of a secretary is so pathetic that she cannot teach anything relatable to the DADA."
"I think it'd best we return to why this meeting was called," Percy suggested before Professor Umbridge could offer a sharp retort. It's no secret that she has it in for Lord Potter, and if anything negative were to happen, then there would likely be trouble.
"Quite right," popping a lemon drop into his mouth. Albus looked over his half-moon glasses, "we wanted to enquire about the spells you used during your battle and what was said to miss. Parkinson and her friends are distraught over their fathers' deaths."
"You'll find that my actions were justified as it was a life or death situation. Parkinson was a fool to think I would go easy on her father. The prick was a coward and a murderer," he said in a calm, cool voice. "I meant what I said in the Hall about what would happen if she took the dark mark."
"Threatening and going after those who can't fight back is reprehensible and not befitting of an educator," Delores added in a sugar-sweet voice.
"Then why are you here?" He looked pointedly at her with narrow eyes. "Not too long ago, you tried to give a group of students detention for dropping your class. That makes you a hypocrite. Don't think I don't know what you like to do to the other Ministry employees."
Dumbledore quickly intervened before things could escalate, "this is not relevant to our discussion…" looking at both professors. "We are here to talk about the spells you used two days ago."
"Hem, hem," Delores's fake cough interrupted him. "Not only that, there needs to be a discussion about the spoils of war and what you stole from those fine upstanding men and their families."
"Won. I won them and what I choose to do with the prizes is not your concern," sharply retorted the woman. "Those fine upstanding men, as you claim, were guilty of countless murders, theft, rape, joining Voldemort…"
"Do not say his name," Delores screeched as Percy gasped.
"…and god knows what else. Then dared to plead under being put under the imperius curse. So far as I'm concerned, they got what they deserved," he said in a cold, brutal voice. "Now, I believe you wanted to discuss my choice of spells, correct?" Albus gave a curt nod. You only need to know that I've been studying the spells from the libraries in my possession."
"Harry, the spells you unleashed haven't been used in hundreds of years and have destroyed many civilizations and taken the lives of thousands." Albus grimaced. "When you chanted the spell to bring for the power of the gods, you unleashed an extremely dangerous type of spell known as Ragnarök. An ancient battle spell that requires an insurmountable amount of anger and hatred to fuel its destructive power. Honestly, I am surprised you have so much anger in you, to begin with."
"How about you skip the long lecture and tell me what you want? I have work to do," he was not in the mood to hear one of Dumbledore's long-winded talks about good and evil magic.
Forgone was the twinkle absent from the old headmaster's eyes; his blue eyes radiated power and narrowed at the young man. "Where did you learn those spells?"
"Like I said, I've been studying in my various libraries," responding with the same attitude and allowing the fire in his eyes to burn. "What I learn and choose to study is my business."
"You are treading down a dark path. Using such dark and destructive magic without any restraints will make you know different than Voldemort or any of the previous Dark witches and wizards."
Harry clicked his tongue, "that's one way to look at it. That is certainly not me. There is no good or evil magic. There is only power and intent," there was no care in his voice. No hesitation. "I will do what it takes to survive in this world."
"Enough of this!" Delores cut in her frown turned into an expression of pure loathing. "You will tell us where you learned those brands of magic and relinquish the things you have stolen from the people you murdered."
"Or what?" He rounded on her as the power in his eyes became more noticeable. "Pray, tell what are you going to do? Have me arrested for possessing things I won in an honor duel? Drag me in front of the Wizengamot and pour some truth serum down my throat? Go ahead, as I'm pretty sure they'll become interested in your and that pig whose ass you like to kiss so much get into when others are not looking."
"Dumbledore may be willing to feign politeness and accept you as a professor, but that will never change the fact of you being no more than a secretary who knows only how to take notes and screech like a banshee." Taking a step towards her. "Your move now. Just remember you push me I will come after you and Fudge."
The rest of the conversation went into the evening, with the tension being palpable. Before Delores could cause irreparable damage, Albus regained control, trying to get Harry to open up about where he got the spells and what else he's been studying. Saying things like 'I know better than you', 'this is for your own good', and 'you do not understand what you are doing by studying such advanced magic'. Each time Harry would refer to the things he's done in the Great war against Gellert Grindelwald and the First war with Voldemort. Eventually, seeing that neither party were going to get the answers they wanted, the entire ordeal ended with the professors returning to their respective offices.
An hour and a half later, Harry got a call from Daphne telling him to be in Professor McGonagall's class. She didn't say why but he could tell she was anxious.
Strolling through the halls, he eventually arrived at the classroom to see everyone except for Astoria and Emily present. "What is so important that requires my presence?"
"I do not know, but these students say they have something to show us," Minerva answered, mentally asking herself the same question.
"Don't worry, Professors." Neville jumped up and down, almost like he was on a sugar high. "With what we have to show will leave the two of you at a loss for words."
The two professors gestured for the group to proceed. Blaise was the first to step forward with a big grin across his lips. True to what Neville said, Harry and McGonagall were indeed left without words when he transformed into a leopard.
Next was Tracey's turn as she turned into a hawk.
Neville is a jaguar.
Luna morphed into a beautiful owl.
Susan became a Chi Chi panda.
Aaron turned into a mountain gorilla.
Then finally, Lilith changed into a seal.
"Well, shave me down and call me a monkey's uncle. This amazing," Harry clapped his hands.
"I must concur. Very impressive!" Minerva felt a strong surge of pride in her students. To think a group of students who are so young are capable of becoming animagi is nothing short of brilliant. A true testament to all of your dedications and magical abilities. I award forty points to each of you."
"That's what I call freeing the beasts," he quipped as the others transformed into human form.
"You all are aware that you will need to register your forms," Minerva adopted her usual strict visage.
Lilith replied, "we know, professor."
Giving her a small nod, "good. Now would either of you care to explain how the six of you were able to successfully transform at such a young age?"
"We learned from Daphne," Luna spoke in her usual dreamy voice. "Who in turn learned from Harry."
Shifting her gaze to the older blonde, "is that true, Ms. Greengrass?"
"Um, yes, professor. We started this summer after our forms were signed," she answered honestly.
Minerva tried to hide it, but her lips slowly turned into a smile, "you are without a doubt your father's son. I got most of my grey hairs from him."
Harry chuckled. "I'll be sure to tell him that!"
"Oh, Merlin, save me," she jokingly looked at the ceiling.
Later after dinner in the room of requirement, Harry sat behind his desk, jotting down notes on how to alter the Fidelius charm. Meanwhile, a large number of fifth through seventh years and a handful of the younger years were working diligently on their assignments. Tearing his eyes away from his notes to scan the area, he could feel their anxieties, confusion, and overall annoyance.
After a moment, his eyes narrowed on Granger, who was silently whispering to Parvati about something.
"If you agree then during the next trip, come to the…"
"Your plan is crazy. I'm not happy with how things are, but what you're suggesting is concerning. Padma feels the same but is reluctant as several things can go wrong."
"Parvati, something needs to be done. We're not learning anything. That fowl evil gargoyle is making it difficult to pass our O.W.L.s—we're not learning how to defend ourselves—she's taking over the entire school." Trying to convince her fellow Gryffindor to at least consider the proposition.
"If Umbridge refuses to teach us, then we have to do it ourselves…"
Having an idea of what she was thinking about doing, he closed his journal and looked at the time to see it was twenty-five minutes till curfew. "That's enough for today. Return to your common rooms," he ordered in a firm, gentle voice.
As the students filed out he asked Neville to hang behind. When alone, he teleported across the room to his friend's side and leaned into his ear. "Keep your eyes and ears open. Specifically, on Granger, I think she's up to something."
Understanding the urgency, Neville said, "you can count on me." In all honesty, he was also becoming suspicious of what Hermione and Ron were planning, briefly hearing a hushed conversation between the two while at Hogsmede with Luna earlier.
"Good luck, my friend," Neville heard as he walked out of the room.
Luna was waiting for him in the halls, and like any decent boyfriend, he walked her back to her common room. Where they talked about their animagus forms along the way. After dropping her off, the two shared a sweet kiss; with Luna twirling the necklace he gave her, she gave the password so the portrait would allow her entry, and she went to her dorm for bed.
In Gryffindor tower, the students sat around the fire, having individual discussions before heading to bed. That was when Angelina stood on a chair and released a loud whistle to get everyone's attention.
"The positions for this year's Quidditch team have been decided," she posted the team's roster on the wall with so many of the students trying to see if they made the team.
Gryffindor Quidditch team:
Angelina Johnson (Captain): chaser
Alicia Spinnet: chaser
Katie Bell: chaser
Ginny Weasley: seeker
Fred Weasley: beater
George Weasley: beater
Ron Weasley: keeper
The youngest male, Weasley, hooped and hollered while others who tried out looked crestfallen that they didn't make the team. Cormac became red with jealousy.
"Hey, Johnson," he called out. "I think you made a mistake as I prevented more goals than Weasley…" Puffing up his chest with a significant amount of arrogance to match.
"The decision has been made and finalized," she snapped at him. Despite the fact of him being taller, she stood her ground. "As the team captain, I have to do what is best."
"Then why was I looked over? I have a ton of great ideas on how to improve the team." He angrily stated, causing a scene in the common room.
"You're an arrogant, self-righteous sexist pig," Katie came into the argument. "We're a team, and we have to know that we can depend on each other. You only care about yourself. You have tried to boss everyone around the team for the past four years, and it has done more harm than good."
Alicia stood beside her fellow chasers, and all three of them gave him a hard look.
"This is not over! I will never accept this injustice," angrily stomping up the stairs to the sixth-year boy's dorm.
Angelina explained how she booked the pitch for their first practice in the morning and how she expected everyone on the team to be present. Ron's face fell as she and the others went to their dorms. The thought of getting up early brought his mood down as he hated getting up in the morning.
(0^0)
Away in the town of Balmalloch, the giants and werewolves were wreaking havoc along with a squad of death eaters led by Antonin Dolohov. Chaos and destruction raged through the streets. He loved doing this, spreading fear and terror. The dark lord trusted him to send a message warning the people they should be afraid. Many of the werewolves were divided into groups, one being led by Fenrir himself. After receiving a stone that enabled him to transform at will, he and his pack have never felt more free as they could bite and kill anyone they wanted. Transforming into their werewolf form, they went after anyone they could find.
The giants were having a ball as they used their weapons to destroy buildings after buildings. They were recruited by McNair on his master's behalf, and a large number of them pledged their loyalties whilst the others decided to remain neutral. While not known for their intellects, they were still smarter than trolls and more violent. Their culture revolved around strength, and they would flock to the one with tremendous power. It was how they decided who their tribal leaders would be.
Antonin and a few of his men sent a volley of dark spells at some of the witches and wizards hiding in a pub, killing them. He then instructed them to use fiendfyre. The hellish flames manifested in the forms of different creatures racing from building to building, leaving nothing but flames and destruction in their paths. A sadistic grin formed on Dolohov's face when he sent the dark mark in the air.
Having fulfilled their mission, he ordered them away as several pops were heard, meaning the Aurors had finally arrived. Antonin's sadistic grin grew into a murderous smile, with his yellow teeth showing after seeing Frank Longbottom. "Well, well. Frank Longbottom glad to see you're not going insane anymore. As much I would love to put you back…our party is over." He then apparated away, leaving a fuming Frank.
Grunting in anger, he went to his fellow Aurors to gather information on what had happened. One of the older townspeople elaborated on how they were attacked by death eaters, giants, and werewolves. What shocked the Aurors was that Fenrir and the people from his pack could transform without the aid of a full moon.
"That is impossible," one of the Aurors sneered at the old man. "Anyone infected with lycanthropy cannot transform without the full moon."
"I know what I saw," the old man was growing angry at how dismissive the Auror was.
"Perhaps it would be best if you were sent to St. Mungo's for treatment as you were hit with a hallucination charm."
Frank rolled his eyes at the Auror before turning to the citizen, "we will investigate this matter," pulling his colleague away so they could talk to the others.
Not too long later, Rufus Scrimgeour arrived with some additional Aurors. "What happened?" He asked his men as some of them went to put out the flames of fiendfyre.
Noticing the seriousness in his boss's voice, the Auror, who previously questioned one of the town's folk, answered, "one of the witnesses claims the town was attacked by death eaters led by Antonin Dolohov, giants, and werewolves. Fenrir Greyback was also on the scene."
Anything else to report?" Giving Auror Hoggard a critical look.
"Twenty-two people are dead, and the old hermit claims he saw the people from Greyback's pack transform into werewolves."
"What!" Rufus exclaimed, snapping his eyes open wide. "That should not be possible."
"Unlikely, sir," another Auror approached with three trailing behind. "We questioned a couple other people who confirmed seeing the transformation."
"Oh, this is going to be a long night," the Head Auror groaned. "Alright, get this place cleaned up, and I want all of your reports by the time we get back to the Ministry.
(0^0)
During breakfast, the Gryffindor quidditch team were all moaning and groaning. Angelina put them to work this morning with her new strategies and training regimes. Ron and Ginny were not used to moving their bodies, so much felt ready to collapse after practice. Being the glutenous he usually was, Ron wasted no time shoving as much food as he could down his mouth.
"Do you ever stop eating so much?" Hermione looked at him with disgust at the mess he was making.
"bmkd gffu tmlk," he tried to say.
"Don't eat with your mouth open," scolding him.
Swallowing his food, "would you get off my back? It's too early for one of your lectures."
"Well, excuse me if I don't want to be sprayed by your food," irritation grew within her. "Quidditch players need to be in shape, and if all you do…"
"There they go again," Katie sighed, sitting next to Aaron. "They sound like an old married couple."
"Easy, Kate," patting her shoulder and taking a sip of his morning coffee. He was telling her about his animagus form, which he even found surprising. A mountain gorilla would come in handy.
Curling her lips, they resumed. "So, how does it feel to be an animagus?"
"It's awesome. Besides the hairy mess, I'm much stronger as a gorilla than I ever was as a human and can talk and understand other gorillas."
"Any chance you can teach me?"
He gave her a skeptical look, "I don't know if I am qualified to teach you how to become an animagus, "pausing for a minute. "Daphne taught me, and I had to get permission."
Katie soon began to think. If Aaron could become an animagus, then so should she, right? She was 17. A legal adult in the eyes of the Ministry. Maybe a talk with her head of house would help. After all, she was a sixth-year, and they'd been discussing the subject more deeply. Her thoughts then wandered to what animal she might get, and she soon began imagining herself as a member of the animal kingdom.
However, the good mood was interrupted when the morning news report from the Daily Prophet when a reporter announced there had been an attack.
"Last night, there was an attack at the town of Balmalloch. According to multiple witnesses, the assault was led by the escaped convict Antonin Dolohov. One of You-Know-Who's deadliest death eaters! Along with the death eaters, giants and werewolves were also wreaking havoc. Amongst the destruction, twenty-two people were killed, nine were injured, and thirteen were bitten by Fenrir Greyback's pack."
The attention of the Hall rested on the screen with several students shifting uncomfortably in their seats. A minute later, the Head of the Auror Department came into view.
"During our investigation, a few witnesses said they saw some of the assailants transform into werewolves without a full moon in the sky." That made some of the students and faculty freeze in fear, as it was a well-known fact that those with lycanthropy can only transform on the nights of a full moon.
"Initially, we did not believe it, but after viewing multiple memories…we have confirmation that it is true. The people from Fenrir's pack can now assume their inner wolf." The grave tone in his voice showed and let the people know the situation was serious. "We will use all our available resources to discover how this came to be."
The female reporter came back, "there you have it. Head Auror Scrimgeour says the matter will be looked into though I am not convinced that the Aurors can find anything noteworthy. When the Minister of Magic was asked about his thoughts, he promptly said," pulling out a crystal recording.
"This is little more than an isolated incident, and there is no need to panic," Cornelius sat behind his desk, clasping his hands together. "I can safely assure everyone the Auror department will do everything it can to find out how this travesty happened and prevent it. Again, there is no need for alarm."
The recording ended. "Unfortunately, this is all the Minister had to say on the matter." The lady's face showed she did not share his optimism. "Was this an isolated incident? And are we safe?"
"Fuck no," Neville scoffed. "Whatever is happening—this is just the start."
"Neville's right. Things are only about to get worse," Luna added. "The nargles and other creatures are concerned with what might happen."
"If Fudge won't admit what's going on, then we're all doomed." Lilith put her fork down. "The fat bastard needs to be removed from office."
"Here, here." Susan agreed.
Up at the head table, Delores tried to hide her giggling and sadistic smile but was failing. Something not gone unnoticed by a few of her fellow professors, who all shot her disapproving glances. Harry sat in his chair, trying to decide his next move as he wondered why the Magus council didn't inform him or Miwa. Something was amiss, and he needed answers. Perhaps he should call a meeting tonight to discuss this latest development with people in his inner circle. Amelia said she was being hampered at every turn by Fudge, who kept telling her to take care of the matter and not to bother him. The only problems were that she didn't have the manpower to effectively do her job, and many of the Aurors she did have were poorly trained. After skimming through the list of active Aurors and Law Enforcement personnel, he had to agree, as only a small portion were capable of fighting.
Weighing his options, he decided to get in touch with some people within the Ministry's Auror division and consult the council and castle founders. However, he was sure about one thing: Fudge and Umbridge were not being looked at favorably, as his spies reported that Fudge was barely seen out of his office nowadays. The only correspondence he has is with Lucius Malfoy, who can be seen coming out of his office. He would bet all the gold in his vault that the duplicitous sack of shit was slipping the Minister more gold and telling him what to say so he could keep his position. Without the support of his so-called friends, Fudge would likely be kissing Lucius's arse more than usual to rebuild his small fortune. This will require more delicate hands and additional digging into Fudge's affairs. Hopefully, his uncle managed to get some dirt on him.
Secretly making up his mind, he sent a mental message to his father and Emily telling them they would need to have a meeting tonight.
A/N: As usual Delores tried to throw her weight around trying to get Harry to cough up what he earned after his battle likely to either get it for herself or get it for Voldemort. The students were still shocked especially the death eater kids mainly Pansy are upset at the fact their father's are now dead and they lost their fortunes.
Daphne and the others were finally able to achieve their animagus form's much to the delight of Minerva who is pleasantly shocked by the idea of her students becoming animagi at such young ages.
Antonin led an attack on Voldemort's orders to spread chaos and fear by demonstrating that the werewolves can now transform without any external assistance. Naturally the Aurors in question are clueless, rather than doing their jobs they'd prefer to ignore and play it off. Fudge being ever so useless is willing to sacrifice the welfare of the people he's charged with protecting for the sake of getting more gold.
Side note: Do I expose Delores's O.W.L and N.E.W.T results or no? Should I let Arthur live after being attacked by Nagini?
Decisions, decisions.
Next Chapter: I've always known. Formation of the D.A.