Chapter 20: Assault at Hogsmeade. Together as a team
Two days after Professor Potter left, several of the Hogwarts students silently wished he had never left and would return sooner. Professor Umbridge and members of the Inquisitorial Squad have stepped up their advances in trying to gain control over the castle. Though, as one would imagine, this was met with opposition from the students and professors. A majority of the staff members told Umbridge point blank they would not help her and warned the people in the Inquisitorial Squad not to test the waters as the consequences will not be pleasant. But, unfortunately, Nott, Goyle, and the two Hufflepuffs decided not to listen, and after bullying, a fourth-year wound up in the hospital wing and was given two weeks of detention. Umbridge tried to intervene, but the other professors overruled her after they watched the memory through the pensive.
Moreover, two other people were not happy. Ron and Ginny were beyond angry as they had been disowned by their Head of House and were no longer considered Weasleys. Ginny was angry and sad when she found out; the youngest redhead went to the Ministry of Magic's Goblin Liaison's Office with Professor McGonagall's permission. She cried and begged her father to reconsider her disownment, but Arthur refused, saying she would live with Ron and her mother at Aunt Muriel's old place. As a result, she started going by her mother's maiden name, Prewitt. Ron, of course, was pissed beyond comprehension and cursed at the top of his lungs. In his mind, he believed this whole ordeal was Potter's fault. A lot of the bad stems from Potter's doing, as the prick was supposed to fall in line, be Dumbledore's apprentice/right-hand man, and marry Ginny so he could get some of the Potter family wealth. Instead, not, he was dating a filthy snake, fought against Dumbledore at every turn, and was the cause of why his family was in such disarray and his disownment.
Standing outside the Great Hall with several other students, they watched as Filch nailed a new Educational Decree on the wall:
Educational Decree #5
The High Inquisitor will henceforth have supreme authority over all punishments, sanctions, and removal of privileges pertaining to the students of Hogwarts and the power to alter such punishments, sanctions, and removals of privileges as may have been placed by other staff members.
Signed,
High Inquisitor Delores Umbridge
"Fucking bitching," Neville groaned. The others mentally agreed with him as Umbridge was getting out of control. "Hey Aaron," the sixth-year Slytherin turned to him, "promise me if that ugly toad pushes me too far and if we engage in a duel. You will not interfere."
"Believe me, mate. You are not the only one wanting some payback," mirroring his frown.
When Filch climbed down the ladder, he was met with loathing eyes from the students, who looked ready to curse him into next month. And that scared him. While he hated the students, he was sure it was returned ten-fold as several of them would like nothing more than to see him fired. So, pushing past them, he went to put his ladder up before grabbing some breakfast in the Hall. As he walked away, a cold shiver ran down his spine as he could feel the hateful glares being directed at him.
Walking inside, the students sat in groups with their friends and began discussing the new educational decree. "...how much do you guys want to bet that she'll be removed by the end of March?"
"I say twenty galleons that she'll be gone by the second week of March," Astoria snickered.
Neville smirked at her, "you're on," the two shook hands.
"Hell, if I had it my way, she would have been gone by now," Tracey remarked after drinking some of her morning coffee.
"I'm with you," Blaise frowned as he, too, wished the bitch was gone or would drop dead. Just then, his enhanced hearing and smell picked up someone approaching, "uh-oh, I smell trouble coming."
The others darted their eyes to where he was gesturing to. A scowling Ginny, whose face was as red as her hair, "well, I hope you are happy bitch," her brown eyes narrowed at the one person she hated the most.
"What are you talking about?" Daphne put her cup of coffee down and turned so her blue eyes met the former Weasley girl's brown ones.
"Don't play stupid," clenching her fist as her voice increased, "You're the reason why I was kicked out and am no longer considered a Weasley." This soon drew some attention from the other students. "It's not bad enough that you had to spread your legs like some common whore to seduce my future husband. But you had to get me kicked out of my family."
Daphne's blue eyes darkened on Weasley as she stood up, "I will say this slowly so your pint-sized brain can understand... I do not care whether you are a Weasley or Prewett, as it doesn't affect me. You were kicked out because you chose to align yourself with someone who didn't give a shit about your father."
"As for seducing, Harry. He was never yours! Open your eyes. He's a person, not an object, for you to parade whenever you wish. Whether you like it or not, he and I are together, and we love each other deeply," she showed the promise ring he gave her. "This is not an engagement ring, but a promise ring that he gave me for my sixteenth birthday. Despite the several marriage contracts offered to him and the number of girls who have asked him out, he chose me. As I saw him for what he really is, not as the Boy-Who-Lived or because of his status among the Ancient Houses. But as a person who has his own heart and mentality. That is something you will never understand."
She walked forward to give a heart-stopping death glare at the red-headed girl. Being the taller of the two, she looked down at her. "If you are so willing to take him, you had best be ready to fight. For I will not give him up without one."
Mustering her courage. Ginny replied, "then let's get it done. I challenge you to a duel right here. Right now. And once I defeat you, Harry will be mine, and you will be proven as the manipulative slut you truly are. You and your pathetic Death Eater family will never go near him again!"
Her declaration generated a considerable amount of murmurs from the other students; some gave her disapproving glares. The professors, especially Roxanne, were less than pleased with her disparaging comments, and if looks could kill, then Ginny would be burning to ashes. Apparently, she didn't learn from last year when her daughter dueled Ms. Chang and Ms. Edgecombe. Those duels should have sent a clear message about her daughter's relationship with Harry.
"That will be twenty points from Gryffindor for your comments, Ms. Prewett," Roxanne stood up, sending a disapproving glare at the fourth year. "Let me state for the record that I am not only a professor at this school but am also Lady of the House of Greengrass. My husband and I have decided that our daughters can choose who they want to be with. We have screened and judged Professor Potter to be a good man and, after speaking with his guardians, have agreed to let him be with Daphne. No dark spells nor any potions were involved as he chose her and her him of their own free will."
"What you have done is slanted the honor of my family and have vocally challenged the heiress of my House to a duel?" The students who had parents in the Wizengamot knew what was about to happen, as did the professors. "You now have a choice. You can either offer an apology or settle this dispute with a duel. The choice is yours."
Dumbledore looked like he wanted to intervene, but a single glare from both Minerva and Roxanne made him rethink that notion. There was also the issue that there would be some political backlash if he attempted to step in. With his current reputation, he couldn't risk any trouble with the Wizengamot or the public anymore. The Order desperately needed allies after a handful of people resigned. If he interfered, then that could be seen as a direct opposition to the other Houses and make things that much harder for him.
"Then let's duel slut," Ginny snarled.
"Fine with me." Daphne's cold, dark tone sent shivers down some of the other students' backs. "In here after today's classes. No spell limitations. The duel will only end when either opponent is unable to continue, and it is accepted by the other party."
"Fine," Ginny whirled around and sat beside her friends at the end of the Gryffindor table.
"Prewett does not know what she just got herself into," came Aaron, who shook his head as Daphne sat back down. "That girl is either very bold or very stupid. I say the latter."
Blaise chuckled in agreement, "no doubt the latter. Knowing our Slytherin Ice Queen here," nodding at Daphne, "any chance of leniency will be close to lost. First, she declared Harry was hers, then she insulted Daphne, and finally, her family's honor. This is not going to end well for her."
"The nargles have clearly gotten to her," Luna commented. "Ginny has become a real pain as of late, and Harry choosing someone who means more to him has not helped. She desperately needs a reality check, or the consequences could be fatal."
"Yeah, but Luna, that is easier said than done," Lilith disapproving voice indicated that she thought differently. "We can all agree that Harry will require a strong woman, and Daphne has filled that role quite nicely."
Meanwhile, the said blond was in deep thought, tuning out her friends while she quietly ate her breakfast. While it would be easy for her to kill the former Weasley daughter, she knew the girl was no real threat. That and she would not go against her principles. Her parents taught her better than that, and she will always stay true to herself and remember what they've instilled in her. Her actions in this duel will forever define who she is and what her House stands for.
(0^0)
Ginny was angry. No, scratch that, she was furious. For too long, the man she had been pining for and believed to be her ticket to a better life had been dating a Slytherin. Well, no longer. She had been practicing martial combat whenever the D.A met up, during the after-school sessions whenever the professors were around, and have been sneaking into the library's restricted section since returning to school. She was fairly confident in her abilities but was not a fool. Greengrass was powerful that was undeniable. But figured she would need an edge.
That was when she made up her mind and struck a deal with a seventh-year Slytherin. In exchange for sleeping with him twice, he would provide her with a special potion to increase her level of magic and put her on par with a mage. In truth, while she hated the Slytherin brute, he did come through and delivered her a set of potions. After drinking the first vial, it made her sick, but the power it afforded her was well worth it. Now that she had experience in bed and had more power, there was no way that her Harry would ever deny her again. She had heard the other girls, especially that cow Lavender Brown talk about how big they thought he was. And noticed how Greengrass was limping that day, she came into the Hall. The Slytherin bitch was positively glowing, and it made her sick to her core to know that she had been Harry's first. Well, not anymore, as he will drop her when he returns from Japan after hearing about her defeat, and she Ginny Prewett will be his new and permanent love interest.
At the end of her classes that day, Ginny went to her house dormitory to put on some fresh clothes and down her remaining potions. Since taking the first one, she had five left and downed them all to increase her magical power. Once all the vials were empty, she disposed of them to relish in the power she'd just received before heading out. Walking to the Hall, she ignored the stares being sent her way. Frankly, the only people on her side were Hermione, Ron, her other three friends, her mum, who sent her a letter saying she would be present today, and Charlie.
A good amount of the student population was already present when she arrived, with a few professors. She frowned when she saw Fred and George's expressions. It was clear they would not be supporting her in this. So she went to stand next to her area. Molly put a comforting arm around her and glared daggers at her opponent.
As Professor Flitwick prepared the dueling arena, Daphne decided to speak with her mother. "You're going to be all right. Remember why this duel is taking place, as it will prove who you are."
"I refuse to let her win," Daphne's dark eyes narrowed at Prewett as she walked onto the platform. There was something different about her opponent as she sensed an unusual amount of power coming from her. Then there was the smell of a potion. Her expression transformed into that of a disappointed frown. So this is how the girl wanted to play it. Gotta cheat to win.
When both combatants were inside the arena, Professor Flitwick, the one chosen to be the referee, had them stand a couple of feet apart. "This evening's match will be between Ginevra Molly Prewett and Daphne Anne Greengrass. Both ladies have agreed to the rules of the duel. The winner will be decided when either opponent is unable to duel any longer and if that person wishes to end the match. Furthermore, there will be no spell limitations. Combatants at the ready!"
Following his instructions, both girls took their individual stances. "Begin!" Filius let out a cannon fire, signaling for them to start.
Ginny wasted no time firing a blasting spell, followed by a dark-cutting curse and a piercing curse. Daphne used the banishing spell to knock them away. However, that did not stop Ginny as she began firing spells after spells at a fast rate. She made sure to put a decent amount of power behind her attacks, and she was sure they would subdue Greengrass.
Unfortunately, things did not go as planned as Daphne dodged and blocked her attacks and retaliated with ones of her own. Prewett's power, amplified by whatever potion she drank, along with her reflexes and speed, would have meant trouble for her had she not been prepared. Her technique was good but limited by the amount of time she spent on her chosen style. One that was obviously built upon speed and agility. She had seen this type of style before from Blaise, Kingsley Shacklebolt, and people at the International Dueling Tournaments. Though, unlike some of theirs, hers was less refined. To defeat a speed stylist, one must be calm, carefully observe, and wait for the right moment. A speed duelist relies on their speed and agility to gain an advantage over their opponents, but a major weakness is that it cannot be sustained for long and is only good for a brief amount of time.
Every move Daphne would make was calculated and made her more efficient as she did not have to worry about becoming tired as fast. Then, just as Prewett was about to send another bludgeoning spell her way, she responded with a well-timed bone-breaking curse to the girl's right hip. This was followed up with a chain of different spells comprised of cutting, hydro blast (though she altered it to make it freezing cold), a blasting curse and the same spell she used on Chang hit her exposed wound and started taking effect. Ginny cried out in pain as she collapsed to her knees. Her bones started to grow cold and break as her breath became visible.
"Did you truly believe that taking a potion would give you enough power to defeat me?" Daphne stared intently at the girl. "The amount of power you get from a potion is only temporary, and nothing compared to the kind is developed through training and hard work."
She took a couple steps forward, "already you're feeling it. All that extra power melting away just when you need it the most." Taunting the girl.
"No. No. I will defeat you, and Harry will be mine," Ginny responded by sending a volley of dark spells she got from the Restricted section.
The audience looked at her with different expressions on their faces. Most were angry and disappointed when they heard Greengrasses accusation about her taking a potion before the duel. Molly claimed it was a lie, and when Filius tried to intervene, Daphne halted him.
"Do not interfere, professor. If this hussy wants to duel the way she's been, then so be it. This duel will only end if one of us is incapacitated and can no longer continue. And I will not have anyone stop us. She will only be allowed to leave when I decide to finish this and knock her out!" She declared much to the approval of her mother, fellow Slytherins, and several of the other students.
Daphne bombarded Ginny with many different spells she'd learned over the years. Even though most of them were Grey and Dark, they wouldn't be enough to kill her opponent. Ginny could only feel pain as Greengrass assaulted her with several spells and could tell the blond Slytherin was putting some power behind them. In short, she looked way worse than Chang and Edgecombe did when they dueled her.
Waving her wand in an intricate pattern, she conjured a set of needles around Ginny's petite body. Half of them were burning hot, and the others icy cold. Before she could put up a shield, they pierced her body, causing her to scream in pain. Her blood began to leak out of different parts of her body as the needles sunk deeper into her body, and the added effects weren't making them any less painless.
But, unfortunately for her, Daphne was far from done. She waved her wand against the ground, and out came some chains wrapped around Ginny's arms, legs, midsection, and neck, forcing her to her knees and dropping her wand. Then with a quick summoning charm of Prewett's wand, she caught it in her hand and snapped it in two. "Know this bitch." Her blue eyes glowed power.
"While it would be easy for me to kill you right now. I won't," Ginny's eyes widened at what she said. "But I can do something that is just as painful." Pointing her wand at the stomach, she jabbed, waved, and slashed it a few times. Ginny felt an insurmountable amount of pain as her inside began tearing apart.
By the time she was done, Ginny had tears rolling down her eyes, screamed her vocal cords raw, and passed out. Daphne then released her from the other spells as Molly ran onto the arena with the school's matron.
"What have you done to her," Molly cried in anger.
"Her ovaries and uterus have forever been destroyed. All of her reproductive organs are gone. Henceforth she will not be able to have children," Daphne's voice mirrored Molly's. Everyone present stared at her in disbelief as they never knew she would do something like that. Hell, Dumbledore looked like he was about to be sick. "Consider this merciful, as your daughter will never have children."
"You call that merciful?! You fucking bitch! You ruined my daughter, and will pay for what you have done!" Molly's face was purple with rage. She would have pulled her wand out, but Roxanne, her daughter's sister, and friends had beat her to it and aimed their wands at her.
"You had best be sure about your next course of action. If you so much as try to attack my daughter, then I will kill you myself," Roxanne's voice was even colder than her daughter's.
"That is enough! Everyone lower your wands," Albus ordered in a thunderous voice. His eyes were devoid of their usual twinkle or any warmth. He looked at Molly, "the duel is over, and there is no further need for bloodshed. The best thing to do now is for you to be with your daughter while Madam Pomfrey attends to her."
Molly shot the Greengrasses a disgustful and murderous look. Thinking for a few minutes, she lowered her wand and followed Poppy out of the Hall with Dumbledore, Ron, and Hermione trailing behind.
"Overweight bitch! Her daughter is the one that cheated..." Astoria would have said more had she not received a severe look from her mother. "Just saying."
"We are going to talk about that language of yours, young lady," Roxanne's eyes showed she meant what she said. Astoria knew better than to cross her mother as she was the strict parent while her father was the fun parent. She then ushered them out so she could speak with the other professors.
"Damn, Daphne. That was brutal of you. Remind me to stay on your good side," Blaise nervously chuckled.
Susan came into the fray, "I'll say. Removing Prewett's was somewhat excessive, but what she did would have been worse, given the spells she used. Where do you think Ginny learned them?"
"Best guess she's been in the restricted section," Emily rationalized. "Though, I'm more concerned about that potion she took." When the others gave her a curious look, she continued. "What I'm saying is that whatever potion she took wasn't one of the standard strengthening potions. My senses tell me that it was something more dangerous."
"I may know the potion you are talking about." Adrian rubbed his chin. "Though, I hope I'm wrong."
(0^0)
Five days had passed since Harry had left Britain to attend the conferences, and already he was sick of them. At the moment, he was wrapping up a meeting with the Transfigurations Guild, wishing he was elsewhere. "...as you can see, I have been very thorough in my research about the animagus transformation that was previously studied by Mistress McGonagall. If granted additional time, some new possibilities can be discovered after obtaining the transformation, making the process much easier."
The people present soon started talking amongst themselves, discussing the boy's research projects. There were, of course, a few who frowned upon the notion that any additional discoveries could be made. Finally, after some time, the chairman delivered the verdict. "Apprentice Potter, you have given us much to consider, although there is some disagreement among us. We have ultimately decided to grant you approval to research these topics more."
"Thank you, everyone," he bowed respectfully.
"We expect your projects to be delivered by April 30th. So, without any further ado, I believe this conference meeting is finished," the man announced as the other members began filling out the room.
"Oh, Merlin, that was draining," the young fifteen-year-old apprentice collapsed into a chair and rubbed his forehead.
Minerva was silently laughing as she placed an arm on his shoulder. "Believe me, Harry, you are not the only one who abhors these meetings. When I had to do it for my Mastery and Sorcerers degree, my nerves were everywhere, and sometimes I could feel the headaches return."
"You should take advantage of the fact that there are no more meetings for the day and go enjoy yourself," she insisted.
"I intend to. But first, I have to be somewhere," scratching the back of his head. Checking his watch, he saw it was ten till six. Then rising to his feet to face her, "have a nice trip back to Hogwarts," giving her a curt nod.
The two left the conference room and went their separate ways. Minerva apparated to the gates of Hogwarts while Harry did the same and went to Mahoutokoro. Appearing thirty feet from the dormitory house, he calmly walked forward, settling his thoughts on what's been going on the last couple of days. Since arriving in Japan, he has attended conference meeting after conference meeting and was thoroughly sick of them. The damn guild members really knew how to stress someone out. He let out a tired breath as he neared the dormitories, only to stop dead in his tracks.
Quickly drawing his sword, he blocked an attack from behind. Miwa gave him a small smile, "glad to see your reflexes have not diminished." She tried striking him again with her two swords, and each time he parried them before launching his own.
"Preparedness is an art," meeting her smile with one of his own. They continued for a few minutes exchanging blows and then calling time.
Sheathing their swords. "Man, I'm tired. Damn fools were driving me up a wall," they walked to a nearby tree and sat down.
"Glad to see you know how I felt when I had to meet with them," she quipped ad giggled. "Look at it this way. You have a couple of days to relax before we have to attend that meeting." She emphasized the last part.
Groaning as he knew what she was talking about, "don't remind me. I hate politics. However, he is not like some of those other deceitful or arse-kissing idiots, so I'll suck it up and go."
She rolled her eyes, "no one will ever fully understand how a politician thinks...though it would be wrong to lump them all into the same category...there are some good ones out there." Miwa stated.
"I wasn't insinuating that all politicians are bad," he returned. "Just the majority of them are out to further their own agendas and gain power."
"All right, I will give you that one," she conceded. Then went to change the topic of their discussion, "any ideas for how this summer will turn out?"
"Assuming I'm allowed some downtime, I intend to relax, come here for the festival, and spend some time at my villa," he responded. "Hello, little ones. I trust you have completed your studies for the day?"
Miwa turned to the right and saw Sora and Mizuki. "Girls," acknowledging their presence with a nod. "Is there something we can help you with?"
Sora answered, "no, we're fine, professor. We just wanted to see how you two were holding up." Being a teacher and attempting to gain a mastery in four different subjects was no easy task, and she knew that. On top of that, Professor Potter had to deal with a bigger situation back in Britain.
"Honestly. I feel like I've aged 20 years these past couple of days," Harry voiced.
Mizuki tried to stifle her laughter when Miwa lightly bopped him on the head. "He's just tired. Attending conference meetings is not his favorite thing to do."
"That's why I leave the diplomatic stuff to you," he returned with a wry grin. "Oh, and Emily sends her best," looking at Mizuki and Sora, who had big smiles. Sora's, however, was slightly bigger as she missed her best friend.
Then something popped into her head, "I just remembered. Emily said she achieved an animagus form...I wanted to get your opinion on mine." Sora morphed into a peregrine falcon, then transformed back.
"Very impressive," Harry and Miwa applaud. "That form suits you well, given your affinity for wind magic. Did you register?"
"Already did," she proudly said, then pulled out her license. "It arrived this morning."
They continued talking until dinner and went into the dormitories cafeteria for dinner. When Haruto entered a couple minutes later, Miwa motioned for him to come over, but he immediately froze when he saw Professor Potter. And with a good amount of reason for knowing what he was capable of and after meeting with him over the summer, he was startled when he beckoned him to join them. Surprisingly, Potter treated him courteously and respectfully and didn't try to scare him away.
"Relax, Mr. Osamu. If I wanted you hurt, you'd be in a bed in St. Mungo's, resting uncomfortably."
"Is that supposed to make me feel better?" Haruto tried to sound unafraid.
"Take it how you want," shrugging his shoulders. Quickly stealing a glance at Miwa, who gave him a knowing look. "However, I rather not be sliced to pieces by your girlfriend." Miwa poked him in the ribs. "What, it's true."
"He ain't wrong," Haruto loosened up. "The last time we dueled, she nearly carved me to pieces."
Harry laughed, "that's my sister for you. Word of advice never gets her angry when she has a blade in her hand. It might be the last thing you ever do."
"Believe me, I am well aware of her temper," Haruto started laughing at the scathing look she was giving him.
"You two are a pair of asses."
"I'm your brother from another mother. I have to be an arse to you sometimes," he would have continued laughing but was slapped on the shoulder. "Ok, I'm done."
Dinner continued to be an enjoyable affair as the group got along famously, sharing jokes, teasing one another, and making light conversation.
(0^0)
On the tenth day, Harry, Miwa, and Griselda Marchbanks were heading to their scheduled meeting at the main ICW building to meet with the Supreme Mugwump. The three wore their best clothes under their robes and were wearing their Magus I.D tags. A precaution in case there was a form of danger; neither was willing to take the chances. They appeared at the apparition point and made it to the door after walking through the other protective wards and enchantments. Harry smirked in satisfaction at the amount of security around the building. However, he shouldn't be surprised since the ICW representatives and Commanders were some of the first to establish contracts to buy his and Miwa's security orbs. They may have fetched a high price, but the defenses were well worth it. For they were more powerful than the previous wards surrounding the place.
Entering the lobby, they strolled to the elevator and rode it up to the desired floor. "I sense the Death Eaters are going to launch a major strike today," Harry commented when the elevator stopped.
"Voldemort?" asked Miwa.
"I don't know, but I assume he's still angry that his precious snake is gone. But, boy, would I give the shirt off my back to see the expression on his face when he sees that the others have been destroyed as well." He allowed himself to briefly smirk. That was until Griselda voiced some wisdom.
Her expression was stern, "do not assume that he will go down lightly...if anything, his attacks will become more devastating the more he is cornered."
"True, but a desperate opponent will become predictable, make mistakes, and reveal things of interest," pointing those facts out with a charismatic smile.
She momentarily chuckled, "let's just get this meeting over with. This is the office," they entered the office and stopped at the secretary's desk. "Good afternoon. We have an appointment with the Supreme Mugwump."
The secretary's eyes went wide when they showed their Magus badges. "Yes...Yes. Just let me make sure that he's ready," immediately hopping to her feet, she went to Mr. Akingbade's office. And returned a minute later.
"He will see you now."
Then, the trio entered the large office to see Mr. Akingbade sitting in his chair behind his desk. "I thank you three for coming today," giving them a respectful nod as he rounded his desk. "Thank you, Candice. That will be all."
As the secretary left, he gestured for them to one of the two couches, and a few of the ICW Commanders and fellow Captains entered the room. Miwa was the first to speak, "it's good to see you, Supreme Mugwump. I only wish our meeting was under better circumstances."
"Me too, Ms. Kawada." Quickly taking control of the wards around the room so no one on the outside could hear and block out any interference. "Over the last several months, I have received a number of reports about the Magus Order becoming more proactive as of late. Many of the reports have to deal with Death Eaters and some dangerous terrorists."
"Speaking on behalf of the Council," Griselda's voice was diplomatic and had an air of no-nonsense to it. "There is a good reason for this, as the Death Eaters and terrorists have been taking advantage of the fact that their leader is back. For that reason, we are doing our best to stop them."
"We?" One of the present ICW Captains questioned. He looked at the two teenagers with doubt. "You expect us to believe these two can do something against a brigade of terrorists."
"Magus Kawada and Magus Potter have proven to be some of our Order's most promising and powerful members. To denounce that would be nothing short of an insult," the pride in her voice showed she meant every word. "However, I believe you know them by their codenames," giving them a knowing look which they responded by grabbing and activating their I.D tags. All the agents and Mr. Akingbade were shocked when they saw the two, now in black combat uniforms.
The Australian ICW Commander somewhat managed to find his voice. "Yo-You're th-them," his eyes looked like they were about to pop out. "Hakugarai and Shadow."
"Your perceptive," Shadow drawled. "Regardless, we do our job to help our world maintain order and have made great progress reducing their forces." He coolly stated. "My fellow Magus and I have designed something that will counteract the effects of the killing and cruciatus curse."
The Commanders and Captains all started talking at once, bombarding the duo with accusations and questions. The thought of defending against two of the unforgivable was unheard of as no magical shield could stop them. The room quickly quietened down when Babajide released a cannon fire from his wand. "Let them finish," putting his wand back into its holster.
He then resumed, "based on what is known, the only defense against an unforgivable is by conjuring, transfiguring, or dodging them." The occupants of the office could tell he was having a difficult time believing what Shadow was saying. "So, you will have to forgive me if I don't necessarily believe what you say about defending against them."
"...We have proof," Hakugarai stepped in. She retrieved a recording crystal from her watch and played it. All of the ICW personnel were shocked to see the footage. Shadow then pulled out his recording crystal to show them what he had been working on. Never before have they ever seen something like what was being shown to them. "Is that enough for you people, or do you require more?" Raising an eyebrow behind her mask.
Getting over his initial shock, Mr. Akingbade narrowed his eyes to resume. "This will help improve our world security. Everyone better get comfortable as we have a lot to discuss..."
(0^0)
Miles away at Hogsmeade, the Hogwarts students were enjoying some much-needed relaxation time in the village. Especially the OWL and NEWT students who are feeling the pressure about their upcoming exams. Several students were still discussing Greengrass and Prewett's duel as a handful of them couldn't get the memory out of their heads. Many female students were terrified as they did not wish to provoke Greengrass the way her opponent did.
"...Based on what I have heard, she woke up this morning," Hannah said, moving through Honeydukes. She wanted to restock her stash of sweets.
"I say she's lucky to be alive," Blaise put some shockers and chocolate into a bag of sweets he and Tracey shared. The dark-skinned boy loved sour candy. It kept him awake during class or if he needed to get his sugar levels up. "Hey, babe, do you want some sugar quills?"
"Yes, please," Tracey grabbed a handful. "Something tells me I will be needing these in the coming days."
"After this, we can go to Madam Puddifoot's Tea Shop," her remark made him freeze. "What, you don't want to go?"
"I will literally burn that shop to the ground and dance on the ashes," Blaise exclaimed.
"Come on, you big baby. A little pink won't kill," she teased. "Plus, we might get to snog unless you don't want to?" Folding her arms across her chest.
Blaise's cheeks went red, "but we can do that at another shop. Does it have to be there of all places?"
A mischievous smile formed on her lips, and she burst out laughing. "You should see your face right now, Blaise. It's utterly priceless."
"Then you..." he attempted to speak.
"I just wanted to see the expression on your face," wiping a tear from her eye after controlling her laughter.
"You teasing minx. You nearly gave me a heart attack. I swear you are going to be the death of me one of these days." She stood on her toes to kiss him on the cheek. Then forming a mischievous smile of his own, he pulled her closer, pressing his lips against hers.
Before she could wrap an arm around his head to push him down further, he pulled away. "If you wanted to make out, all you had to do was ask," giving a sly smile.
Just as their lips were about to meet again, he pulled back and kissed her on the forehead. "You're not the only one who can tease," he remarked, poking her in the side, much to her surprise.
The look on her face said I will get you back later. After grabbing what they needed, they paid and left the sweets store. Emily, Luna, and Astoria went to stock up on potion ingredients from the apothecaries. In contrast, the others went to the different shops to get supplies or just enjoy themselves. Finally, they agreed to meet up for lunch at Three Broomsticks.
Tracey and Lilith walked beside Daphne as the boys walked down the street. "So, it's been ten days. I bet you are excited to have your boyfriend back in your arms when he arrives tomorrow." A faint blush appeared on Daphne's face. "Oh, you are. Aren't you? Probably want to drag him into his room and snog him senseless."
"Keep it up, Trace, and you will not be snogging your boyfriend for a week," she returned with a little agitation in her voice.
"I think your right, Tracey," commented a giggling Lilith. "She definitely misses having her body pillow."
"And pray tell where is your boyfriend?" Lilith stopped giggling at Daphne's cool voice. It was true that she didn't have a boyfriend yet, but that did not mean she wasn't interested in someone.
Instead of speaking, she playfully nudged Daphne's arm. "Where do you guys want to go after this?" Asking as they entered the quills shop. She needed to get some additional quills, ink bottles, and parchments.
Tracey spoke almost immediately, "why not head to the shampoo store? I hear they got a new product in."
And so they went. Truthfully Daphne was glad to have entered the shop as she wanted to get some of her own shampoo as well. The owner must have received a new investor as the shop was bigger and had more products than before. There were a handful of teenage girls already vying to get a look at the newest product. Leading them was Lavender Brown, who was in the front trying to get as many bottles as she could. It wouldn't be a surprise if a fight broke out. Luckily, Daphne and the girls had the foresight to pre-order their items to avoid any trouble. Once they gathered their items, the three left for the Three Broomsticks, where they sat beside their friends.
"What happened to you lot?" Adrian asked, noticing the way they plopped down in their seats.
"That shampoo shop...too many people," Tracey replied as a waitress brought over some drinks.
A little confused, he looked at Neville for a second. "A new selection detailing their latest product, and a sale was going on..."
"Ok, enough said," understanding the situation better. He looked behind his companions to see a couple of people staring at them with dangerous intent in their eyes. "Don't look now, but I think a couple of hyenas are about to pounce."
Following his gaze, to see that Prewett, Granger, and a few others were glaring at them. The former was the most angry as he looked ready to draw his wand at them. Though his ire was more directed at Daphne than anyone else.
"Seems the former Weasley is still steamed at what you did to his sister," Aaron commented, looking at Daphne.
"In retrospect, Daphne did give her an involuntary hysterectomy," Blaise shuddered. "But in all fairness, it was a sanctioned duel, and Prewett should have known better than to push our resident Ice Queen too far."
"The likelihood of her having children in the future would be considered a miracle."
Daphne shook her head as she didn't feel an ounce of guilt for what she did to Prewett. "Hopefully, the aftermath of our duel will send a clear message that no one should cross my House or try to take away people I love." Taking a bit of her sandwich. "If any of them try to attack, then-"
She was cut off when explosions from outside went off, and several screams were heard. "I don't like the sound of that."
She and the others hopped to their feet as someone rushed in, panting and out of breath, "we're...being...attacked! Acromantulas and Death Eaters!"
"Here! Now!" Emily flicked her wand out as did the others, preparing to go outside when the man fell on his face after being struck by a killing curse. In retaliation, she cast a blood-boiling curse at the Death Eater as he approached. He was quick enough to see the red spell as it struck him, and he collapsed dead after screaming in pain. "Everyone, we must leave as we will not be safe here."
"Why would we listen to you after you just killed someone," Ron argued.
"This is not a debate! Emily is right. If he came, then there's bound to be more on the way. We need to get out of here." Neville replied. "Anyone capable of combat, brace yourselves as we're going out there. Everyone else...use the secret passage to get back to Hogwarts."
"You are not in charge, Neville," Hermione said as he and the others ran out.
"Ah, this is bad," Blaise said as a swarm of Acromantulas and several squads of Death Eaters came attacking. Spells were being cast everywhere, and several people were running in fear. He almost didn't see it, but a fury of spells approached them. "Lookout," with a swipe of his wand, he cast a wide banishing charm that knocked them away.
"That was close," Aaron said after killing some of the acromantulas with a blasting curse.
Dodging another set of spells, Tracey quickly retaliated with an explosion hex and followed it up with a set of lethal spells. "We have to take care of the acromantulas before handling the Death Eaters." Conjuring a set of fiery beasts and setting them loose.
"Got it covered! Adrian, Aaron, you with me. We need to eliminate them." Blaise said after using a powerful shockwave. "Neville, Susan, Emily, Luna, be prepared to defend us if any additional unfriendlies arrive. All right, let's go!"
The three raced forward, with the others following behind to perform a defensive perimeter. Together they conjured a pressurized wall of fire, fire columns, and more fiery beasts. Behind them came a multi-color amount of spells aimed at the Death Eaters.
"Incoming," Susan shouted, pointing her wand as a belly of Dementors came flying. "Everyone who can cast a patronus charm, do it now."
Along with several other students and Aurors, they cast the charm, and different animals came rushing out of their wands. The Dementors were met by the collective patronuses and pushed back.
"Take a breath. Because the real hell is about to begin," Neville used the fire whip to cut off the legs of four acromantulas and used the incendio charm to burn them to ash. Lilith conjured a brick wall to intercept the spells being hurled their way. Daphne then added a couple charms to enhance them.
"No shit, as it doesn't take a genius to know that more are on their way. We have to be careful as this is no longer practice. This is for real!" Just then, the brick wall had been destroyed. Immediately she sent a volley of spells. Then turned to the Aurors," get the third years and other civilians somewhere safe. The rest of you unleash hell on these bastards."
A cutting curse would have taken her head off had she not ducked under it and sent a brain explosion at her attacker. "Get moving," she yelled when the Aurors didn't move. Snapping back into reality, they complied, sending some of their men and women to protect the civilians.
All hell started to break loose as the Death Eaters were being attacked by the Aurors and students. What surprised them was how well some of the students were able to fight together. Neville, Susan, Luna, and Adrian were covering the rears. Astoria, Hannah, and Tracey were calling out strays and dealing with the Death Eaters that appeared behind the group. Meanwhile, Blaise, Aaron, and Daphne handled the ones in the front. Like the Death Eaters, they were not pulling any of their spells as this was not one of Harry's training sessions but for life. One misstep and it could mean death or worse.
The battle continued for a half hour, with the Aurors and students slowly gaining an advantage as the number of Death Eaters began to decrease. "How is this possible?! They're only teenagers," exclaimed one of the Death Eaters.
"Making a mess of things, are we," a cold voice sent shivers down their spines. Then, daring to turn around, they saw Bellatrix Lestrange and her husband Rudolphus approaching with another squad of Death Eaters. The female Lestrange killed the man before he could utter a reply. "Pathetic. The Dark Lord's orders were absolute. Destruction of the village, and if anyone gets in the way...end them!"
With renewed vigor, the Death Eaters remaining pressed the attack with deadlier spells. First, the Aurors and store owners will die then the students will be next.
Working in tandem with each other, they had to cover one another's weak spots. "Guys, this is getting intense," Susan exclaimed, battling a group of Death Eaters with Aaron and Luna. Pulling their magics together, they pushed their attackers back with a chain of spells tied together.
"And look, we have bigger problems," Neville pointed his wand at the second wave of Death Eaters.
"...Right now, we need to focus on these idiots," Blaise said, shielding himself against an explosion curse that made him skid back a few inches. He then sent a piercing spell at a Death Eaters then followed it up with a fiery purple ball of energy that ended their lives.
Daphne watched as the battle heated up, the Death Eaters grew bold, and their spells and styles became more vicious and deadly. Several explosion spells were cast and sent the Aurors back, though clearly, they weren't unscathed as they had several cuts and likely some broken bones. "Enough," she said after deflecting some rather nasty spells. "Hannah, Luna, get the Aurors out of the crossfire. Astoria, I want you and Emily to join them and ensure the other students return to the castle." Sending an icy explosion that intercepted a volley of spells.
"Now, why do you believe we'd allow that," a sinister smile tugged at Bellatrix's mouth. "You certainly know how to play. Why not with me?"
"Bellatrix and Rudolphus Lestrange," Neville's eyes burned with fury. "Two of the people I despise the most in this world." Even though he only received minor injuries and a few gashes on his body, his blood boiled with anger.
It took Bellatrix a second to figure out who the boy was, then she cackled, "well, if it isn't the wittle baby squib Neville Longbottom." She looked at her husband. "You remember Rudolphus how we tortured his parents that night."
"Yes, I remember their screams of agony and how they begged us to stop," laughing at the memory.
Neville growled in anger, "I will tear you apart," ready to fire a spell but stopped when Adrian halted his arm.
"Don't let them get to you. They want you to attack." Adrian said.
Daphne quirked an eyebrow, "besides, that fucking cunt is not worth much after being kicked out of her birth family and ending up in a coma. Bellatrix's silver eyes burned with rage. "You remember after Harry kicked your sorry arse on the mental plane. You remember that, don't you?"
Bellatrix roared in anger as Greengrass mocked her. She then sent a volley of dark spells at a furious pace. Daphne blocked and dodged every one of them. "You're going to have to do better than that," mocking the woman.
"Greengrass, you have seen nothing yet. Now let's find out what my bastard of a cousin has taught you..."
The fighting then resumed as the new group of Death Eaters was more powerful than the last. Another group of Aurors arrives, with Kingsley, Frank, and Alice being some of them. The former and Frank dueled Rudolphus while the other Aurors were helping the teenagers fend off the Death Eaters, and Daphne dueled Bellatrix. Spells were being cast at an alarming rate, each growing more powerful than the last.
So far, it was a stalemate between everyone. Neville sent a couple of high-powered and destructive spells along with the others. Alice and the other Aurors covered them, "Neville, I want you and the others to get out of here."
"Like hell, we're leaving you here to deal with them," getting in front of her as the Death Eaters advanced on them. "We will make our own fun like we've been trained. Come on, you lot. Let's show them who we are!"
"Neville's right. Break them!" Blaise and the others charged forward, unleashing a powerful barrage of highly dangerous spells that shocked the Aurors and Death Eaters as they were forced on the defensive. The Aurors couldn't believe it. Teenagers were fighting off obviously well-trained Death Eaters. Alice herself, was surprised to see how they worked so well together as it was better than the Aurors.
Meanwhile, Daphne and Bellatrix were locked in a fierce duel, and the two appeared even in terms of power and skills. Despite sustaining injuries, neither of them was willing to give an inch. Daphne was mentally glad she performed those two rituals, as they certainly helped level the playing field. She could see why Bellatrix was Voldemort's number two as her casting abilities were almost like a blur, and most of her spells had a significant amount of power. Above all, her dueling style was brutally aggressive, not to mention chaotic, though that was likely to be expected given the bitch was largely considered insane. But something was off...while she was indeed extremely powerful, as to be expected. Daphne could sense other magical signatures coming from her, and then it hit her. The fucking bitch absorbed the magical cores like her master.
She was briefly thrown back when a dark explosion spell hit her shield, breaking it and some of her bones, delivering some scrapes along her body, and destroying some of her clothes in the process. Landing on her feet as her healing abilities were working over time. Just as she prepared herself to fend out another chain of spells, the insane witch sent a dangerous curse to an unsuspecting Astoria. Acting purely on instinct, Daphne teleported to her sister's side and cast a golden shield that sent the spell back to its originator. Something inside her awoke as her magical core then kicked into overdrive, releasing more power into her. Moreover, her blue eyes glowed with power.
"...Thanks...sis, I...owe you one," Astoria was trying to catch her breath.
"I will fucking kill you," Daphne shouted at Bellatrix with power in her voice. Then without a second thought, she hurled spells at a furious rate that made them seem like a blur forcing Bellatrix on the defensive.
Bellatrix did not know where this sudden surge of power came from, but Greengrass's spells became much more potent. She was sure the power she absorbed from those filthy mudbloods and half-bloods would make her more powerful, but a girl several years younger was pushing her back and injuring her. It hurt her pride as she was Bellatrix Lestrange. She obtained the rank of Master-class Duelist and killed several high-ranking ICW agents. Deciding to retaliate, she sent her own fury of spells.
Refusing to lose, the sixteen-year-old blond dodged and parried the spells before teleporting to Lestrange's side and delivering a hard punch to the woman's face. This was followed up by another punch to the other side of her face, then grabbing her wand, she infused her grip with magic and crushed the bones in her wrist, making Bellatrix scream.
Unfortunately, Daphne wasn't done. For she infused her strikes with magic adding more power to her punches and kicks, breaking more of one of the most feared witches of all times bones. Then after breaking her nose and some teeth, she grabbed the woman by the collar of her robes and threw her a fair distance.
Bleeding all over, Bellatrix panted as she struggled to her feet and was about to pull out another wand she kept hidden in her wand holster on her left hand. But, before she could attack, a cutting curse took her hand off. "Who do you think you are to do this to me, little girl?! Do you know who I am!" She screamed in pain and rage.
"I don't care!" All concepts of morality were absent from Daphne's voice. The only thing present was ice-cold venom that momentarily surprised the older woman and the others. "This is for all the people you have killed and tortured. Goodbye!" Summoning all of her magic, she released a fiery red-purple energy orb enhanced with the elemental force of ice from her wand that rocketed toward a startled Bellatrix.
Then before anyone could continue, they watched as Bellatrix's body became frozen in a block of ice and exploded into several tiny pieces of ice. Finally, Bellatrix Lestrange, the most notorious witch of her age, was dead, much to everyone's shock. Rudolphus screamed in anger and rage at what he'd just seen. "You killed my wife!" Yelling with all of his fury.
He then started curse after curse, hoping they would connect so he could avenge his wife. Although Havin' spent most of her energy dueling Bellatrix, Daphne soon felt her added strength leave as she became more susceptible to the pain she sustained during her duel. The amount of pain coursing through her body was making it hard for her to avoid Lestrange's attacks.
"Guys, Daphne spent most of her energy fighting Bellatrix," Emily sent a wide explosion spell that critically injured some of the Death Eaters. "We're going to need to back her up."
The gang formed a defensive perimeter around her, holding the remaining Death Eaters off. Though, that was proving to be a difficult task as their cores were being pushed to their limits.
"Harry, where are you? We need you." Adrian asked.
As if spoken into existence, a massive wall of crimson fire appeared in front of them. "I know that flame. About time he got here," Blaise wiped the sweat and blood from his forehead.
Hovering above the flames, Harry waved his wand in an intricate pattern that made the wall condense upon itself, transforming into a miniature version of the sun and sending it toward the remaining Death Eaters. Rudolphus and the remaining Death Eaters tried to block it but were sent flying after it exploded. Then teleporting near his friends. "Are you guys ok?
"We're fine, mate," Aaron said as Harry erected a powerful dome shield over them.
"Return to Hogwarts and get patched up. Me and the Aurors will handle these arseholes." He interrupted when Tracey was about to protest. "You all did amazing, so let me take it from here."
Reluctantly nodding, Harry signaled for Kingsley and Alice to take the students back to the castle. "The remaining Aurors, you're with me." The dome then collapsed. "Run!"
Harry and the remaining Aurors went to handle the Death Eaters while the two Aurors escorted the teenagers away. "Yo, Lestrange. Where bat shit crazy bitch cousin of mine," he batted a dark orange curse away.
The man snarled, "another time Potter. Fiendfyre!"
Soon the others yelled Fiendfyre as well.
"Fiendfyre!"
Blazing bears, dragons, and chimeras flew out of their wands, and the Death Eaters apparated away. Harry ran forward, thrusting both of his hands at the incoming flames wanting to contain them. The flames reacted to his magic, responding to his control; he managed to miniaturize them until they were nothing but a small handheld fiery ball. Feeling a little stiff in his arms, he threw the fireball straight into the air, and with a jab from his left hand, a spout of water extinguished the flame.
"I have got to learn how he does that," Frank said, helping one of his colleagues up to their feet.
"...You and me both." The Auror was leaning most of his weight on Frank as his right leg was broken, and he had a few broken ribs. "Hey, Potter, after we get healed, do you want to join us for a Firewhiskey? The first round is on me."
"Probably another time. I have to check on my students," declining the man's offer. "Frank, you and the other Aurors get the wounded to St. Mungo's and contact Rufus Scrimgeour. Have him send some more Aurors to take a head count and assess the amount of damage that's been done."
A voice appeared behind him, "you heard him, people. Move!" Whirling around, Harry saw the Head Auror along with a team of Aurors. The Aurors present went to check for any survivors. "Why do I get the feeling that I will be drinking a bottle of Old Ogden tonight," groaning.
"Priorities first, then drink. Come on, I have to check on the students. Aurors Kingsley Shacklebolt and Alice Longbottom are already in the hospital wing with the people who fought today."
With a grunt, Rufus sent all but three Aurors to help while he and the others joined Lord Potter as he went back to the castle. "All right, put your hands on me, and I'll get us there."
They placed their hands on him and were whisked away in a fraction of a second.
A/N: I know this chapter is late and that many of you have been asking for when I will update this story. It's not that I've grown tired of this story; on the contrary as I love it. I've just been busy with other things and they unfortunately take up most of my time. To reiterate I am currently working on four other stories and will post them on Pa tre on once I've made enough chapters to have three tiers. I have yet to create an account, but when I do you will be informed.
To this story I have tallied the results of what punishments will be given to Fudge, Umbridge, and Percy.
Fudge and Umbridge: #3
Percy: #3
In this chapter Ginny made some mistakes and was taught a painful lesson. Daphne gave her an involuntary hysterectomy barring her from ever having children. What's more when the Death Eaters attacked she and the others were able to give them one hell of a fight surprising the Aurors on how well they worked with one another. Also, Daphne defeated Bellatrix Lestrange, Voldemort's right hand. This will be a blow that will shake him to his core. I should point out that I never believed it to be right when it was Molly who defeated the most feared witch of her time. Molly is an overbearing housewife who never displayed any dueling experience so it seems wrong that she could even match someone of Bellatrix's caliber. Am I wrong people?
Next Chapter: Questions and Discovery