In the Crosshairs
Dragon Voldemort
Chapter 87: SDWCA
Ron woke to a shake.
"Where's Harry?" Hermione asked.
"Dunno," Ron said, "Try Montana."
"Not funny," Hermione said.
Ron opened his eyes. Her bushy hair, her brown eyes above his head, almost blocked out the ceiling from his view. Her eyes a bit sullen.
"What?" Ron asked as he sat up.
Window still mostly dark, Hedwig worked at an owl treat. Crookshanks enjoyed the other half of the bed. Hermione handed Ron The Daily Prophet, and Ron studied that first article.
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"Suspected Dark Wizard Control Act" Passed Into Law
Concerned about the rise of Dark Arts by aspiring youths in attendance to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, in a strong move of condemnation, the Wizengamot and the International Confederation of Wizards passed the Suspected Dark Wizard Control Act (SDWCA) to help contain anyone dabbling in Dark Magic.
British Minister for Magic, Victor Fallerschain, took swift action by listing Harry James Potter, Ronald Bilius Weasley, Hermione Jane Granger. Though a muggle, Gia Marie Prescott is listed as a known accomplices. Minister for Magic is considering all members of the former order of the phoneix as potential accomplices, and will list them on a case by case basis.
"Bloody hell," Ron said, "What is…"
Ron moved onto the next article.
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Suspected Dark Wizard Control Act (SDWCA)
Major legislation to quash aspiring Dark Wizards has several major sections.
"Suspected Dark Wizard" is any person that any Minister of Magic has deemed to have begun dabbling in the Dark Arts; including, but not restricted to, Unforgivable Curses, murders, general terrorism. Included in the restrictions are any accomplices deemed to be assisting a person dabbling in Dark Arts. Removal from the list requires a super majority approval of the International Confederation of Wizards and approval of the listing Ministry of Magic.
The SDWCA places reasonable restrictions onto the suspected Dark Wizard—which can be changed by the Minister of Magic at any time for any cause. Any issued Apparation licenses are revoked, Apparation is not permitted on the part of a suspected Dark Wizard. The suspected Dark wizard is prohibited from having any of the following in their possession; portkeys, brooms, flying carpets, floo powder, wand holsters, wands, cauldrons, potion supplies, spell books, books on magic of any kind, any Dark items, invisibility cloaks, fireworks, Dungbombs, potions, or any replicas thereof—the exception being at their wizarding school of attendance in the exercise of their coursework and scheduled obligations.
The SDWCA removes all redress the suspected Dark wizard may seek under statutes; this permits the magical community at large to deal effectively with all emerging threats, including the formation of any specialized task forces, posting of rewards, bonds, or the elimination of the threats. The SDWCA also limits any redress afforded to supporters of the aforementioned threats.
Violations of the SDWCA or any verifiable demonstration of Dark Arts by the suspected Dark Wizard are now capital offenses; punishable by the Demeantors Kiss or summary execution.
"Ouch," Ron said.
"How do we break the news to Harry lightly?" Hermione asked.
Ron stood, unsure.
"Finnigan's new group?" Ron asked as he moved on.
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Eximo Macula "EM"
Legitimized by the SDWCA; Eximo Macula, which means "Expel the blemish", or "EM" for short, is a new organization devoted to the removal of the Potter threat by any means necessary. EM seeks the permanent removal of Potter, Weasley, Granger, and Prescott.
Mr. Clarence Patil, whose twin daughters attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, is a prominent member of EM whose worldwide membership has approached a million people already. Mr. Patil said, "We seek the removal of these threats that continually harm and maim their fellow students."
Mr. Patil refers to one daughter being raped last month in front of many witnesses—Potter was castrated as a result, but it has not stemmed his thirst for violence. This was verified when an out of control explosive device blew up on Potter maiming a fellow school mate last week.
EM hopes to cut Potter short, prevent him from carrying his evil designs out on the world.
"Do we tell Kristen about magic?" Hermione asked.
"We're not supposed to!" Ron said.
"Nor are we supposed to live," Hermione said, pointed at the paper, "And if Harry thought his holiday was a good idea?"
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America Disapproves of Potter
In a recent Gallop poll, people were asked whether Potter is a growing threat.
Yes :72%
No :25%
Undecided: 3%
(Margin of Error, ±3%)
Secretary of Magic Charles Kelly is working in coordination with the British Minister of Magic with handling this emerging threat.
A knock at the door, Richard entered the bedroom.
"Where's Harry?" Richard asked, "It's nearly time to head to school."
"Dunno," Hermione said.
"Mum's going to freak," Richard said.
"Good reason to," Ron said, going to the next article.
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Problem Solver
Face it Wizarding World, it's time to vote with your purse, express your dissatisfaction with the vileness that has crept back into our lives. You thought the Boy Who Lived was your salvation, you wish that were true but know it's not. We need to banish this blemish and disease from our lives, to return to the wonderful world of magic we all know and love.
Eximo Macula is proud to help administer these rewards for removal of known threats to the wizarding community.
Harry Potter, the Boy Who Shouldn't Have Lived. 203,982 galleons.
Ronald Weasley, Kiss Up King. 134,845 galleons.
Hermione Granger, Wannabe Dark Queen. 78,400 galleons.
Gia Prescott, Muggle Cock Holster aka Potter's pet. 52,032 galleons.
Bonus of 10,000 galleons per relation or friendship severed.
Removal of these problems would be greatly appreciated. All wagers and contributions can be sent to "Bye Bye". To claim a reward, submit relevant documentation.
"Sounds huge," Richard said, "What's a galleon worth?"
"About five pounds," Hermione said.
Pop, Harry and Gia appeared, backpack on Gia's shoulder.
"A million on Harry's head?" Richard asked.
"A million?" Harry asked, "What'd I miss?"
"Good news," Ron said as he handed Harry a copy of The Daily Telegraph, article already open.
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Engagement of Ronald Bilius Weasley to Hermione Jane Granger
Ronald Weasley has asked Hermione Granger's hand in marriage. Ronald Weasley, formerly of St. Ottery in Catchpole, Devonshire, is a student to the same school that Hermione Granger, of Noigate, attend together. Both will have to wait until graduation to tie the knot, we all wish them luck.
"You did?" Harry asked Ron.
Hermione showed the ruby ring to Gia. Harry glanced at that, back to Ron.
"Dad…" Ron said, "It's my Mum's wedding ring, felt it should stay in the family."
"After this weekend…" Hermione said, sat on the bed.
"School," Richard said to Gia.
Gia yawned, redness to her eyes as she half–heartedly dressed, the protective vest left behind as she left. Harry yawned as he fell onto the bed.
"Um…" Ron muttered.
"Forgot about timezones," Harry said, curled to his side, "Cousin's all sorted?"
"Harry!" Hermione snapped.
"He doesn't know," Ron said to her.
Hermione left the bedroom.
"Know what?" Harry asked.
Ron sat down on the bed.
"That bad?" Harry asked.
Ron explained the service, the attack. Harry sat back up.
"We don't blame you," Ron said.
"Still…" Harry said.
An owl dropped a letter to Harry, one with the distinctive seal.
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Harry James Potter
Your listing as a Suspected Dark Wizard is disappointing but not surprising. We strongly urge you to cease use of all magic.
Dolores Umbridge, Chair of the Harry Potter Guidance Committee
"Another fan," Ron said, "What'd I tell you? They love you."
"What's…?" Harry asked.
Ron pulled over The Daily Prophet and handed it to Harry. Ron stood there, watched Harry's frown as he read.
"Sorry to spoil your weekend," Ron said.
"It was…interesting," Harry said, "Camping and all."
Harry went to the backpack, lifted out a white sack, with Seaside, Oregon emblazoned on it, handed over what seemed like a black toffee. Ron tasted it, the licorice flavor, the saltiness to it.
"They called it salt water taffy," Harry said, "Also a bit of…"
Harry handed over a cube of white. Ron tasted the chocolate within.
"Somebody tried to rape Gia," Harry said, "For once, I understood, the wrath."
Ron put his hands to Harry's shoulders, stared into those bottle green eyes that didn't fight. Ron leaned in, held Harry for a moment.
"Ta," Harry said.
"You're right," Ron said, "We're all learning apparation—Hermione needs the sell."
Harry nodded. Ron went for the door, down the steps. He sat on the sofa downstairs next Hermione, held her.
"I explained it to Harry," Ron said.
"How's he taking it?" Hermione asked.
"Remarkably well," Ron said.
Ron turned, she leaned down onto him. He held her. A short while later, the characteristic pop. Harry had both backpacks.
"You're…?" Hermione asked.
Harry opened his, turned it upside down. A couple of rocks, he pulled out the skis, ski clothes, the sleeping bag, a fishing net, crystal glasses, climbing gear and ropes.
"Why?" Ron asked.
Harry turned to them.
"This…" Harry held a set of skis, "These are legal, but most of our stuff isn't under that blasted act. I'm totally tired, but this is more important, hiding our gear and our books. We can't spend an hour packing if we have to run, if that group figures out we live here and raid us."
Hermione sat up, stood.
"That's…" Hermione started.
Ron understood the plan, stood too. Ron leaned, and his broom servicing kit rested on the coffee table, the champagne, wine, his sleeping bag, food with some moldy and some good, a tent. Hermione pawed through the books that Ron pulled out of the backpack.
"This look familiar." Hermione handled Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
"Borrowed it from your Mum," Ron said, "Didn't get their entire library."
"Exactly how many do you have?" Harry picked up Kaplan and Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry: Behavioral Sciences Clinical Psychiatry, "Thought they all had book covers."
"Got through them," Ron said, "Understand how desperate I've been to help you—so it's…guess we can count the books."
Harry lifted The Interpretation of Dreams by Freud, leafed through it.
"Staggering," Harry said.
Ron glanced at Hermione, the brown eyes, skimming the collection, and her thoughts to exactly how many Ron's read.
"We're emptying," Ron said, deflecting the attention.
Ron worked a bit more at his, pulled out miniature Eiffel towers, dragon figures, a twelve pack of chocolate frogs. Harry pulled out a bag of charcoal from his backpack.
"Would've been useful for the campfire," Harry said.
Ron turned his backpack upside down, shook, some dust and a feather.
"Finally know how much's in those," Hermione said, "First cleaning?"
"We need better arrangements," Harry said.
"Helps to find things," Hermione said.
"She wants to touch our sacks," Ron said.
Hermione gave a light jab to Ron's stomach, Harry chuckled.
"Normally you do," Harry said.
Ron caught Hermione's glare at Harry.
"My my."
Ron spun, Lupin stood there.
"I caught you unaware, again," Lupin said.
"Sorry," Harry said.
"Don't be sorry, fix it," Lupin said, "I read The Daily Prophet too, Voldemort can murder you in full daylight on the Westminster bridge—no repercussions. A fly's got more legal rights to life than you do."
"I'm top of that list," Harry said, lifting his foot into his backpack, "I need to—"
"Study apparation though I can't suggest practicing it," Lupin said, "You shouldn't be leaving this house under anything less than disillusionment. I'll see you next week."
Lupin disapparated.
"Come," Harry said.
Harry dropped himself into his backpack. Ron wormed in behind Harry, stood next to him, feet on velvet bottom. Hermione threw down a rope ladder from the edge, and climbed down that.
"Good thinking," Ron said.
Blackness around them.
"Open canvas," Harry said.
"I'm thinking double or triple layered," Hermione said.
"Multiple compartments," Ron said, "What you saw of Moody's trunk."
"I will need to work this out," Hermione said.
"It is my sack," Harry said.
Hermione shoved Harry, he laughed.
"When opened, it's muggle backpack, and cramped," Harry said, "Anybody with magic can open the next compartment. This one, a cellar, our wands for entry. Can that be done?"
"Awfully roomy for a backpack," Hermione said.
"You read the article, everything magic needs to go in here," Harry said, "Let's see."
Harry's wand in his hand. Harry pointed, shelves appeared along with aisles, a hardwood floor appeared beneath them, a ladder appeared up to the portal in the illuminated white ceiling of the backpack.
"Can we make this permanent?" Harry asked.
"Part of the backpack?" Hermione said, "Think so."
"Link them together?" Ron said, "Same cellar for both."
"You didn't seem to pay attention in that one Arithmacy course," Hermione said, "Skipped it for years."
"Do as I do anymore," Harry said, "Imagine it."
Harry went for the ladder, climbed it.
"Guess he's trusting you to get it working," Ron said to Hermione, "I don't know it."
"He…" Hermione muttered.
Ron ran his hands over her shoulders.
"You're brilliant," Ron said, "You are, and I love you."
Ron leaned in, kissed her.
"We've all got our jobs," Ron said, "Mine's keeping him together."
Ron climbed the ladder, back into the living room. Spotted the hand in the dining room, and went over. Harry at the table, Apparation Theory open.
"It's half rubbish," Harry said as he read it over, wrote into an essay.
"This is how every other wizard learns it," Ron said.
"I get that," Harry said.
Ron sat down.
"Learn what they do, and make it better," Ron said, "Don't want them to be able to apparate somewhere and you can't."
Harry smirked.
…
Harry grabbed the final load of books into his arms. A thought, the wandless charm.
"Egodefrat," Harry said.
Harry disapparated, apparated into the cellar of the backpack.
"Will you—be more considerate!" Hermione snapped.
"Dreaming of starkers wizards appearing out of thin air?" Ron asked.
Hermione gave a quick shove to Ron, and Ron chuckled.
"Glad you two love each other," Harry said, setting the books down on the small table.
Hermione gave Harry a light shove. Harry leaned over, kissed her cheek.
"Best to apparate out," Ron said.
"Need to check on her," Harry said.
Harry closed his eyes, skipped the charm, thought of her as usual.
Gasps.
Harry glanced around, Gia stood in this portable classroom, in the center of a ring of desks.
"I told you," Gia said to Harry, "Magic's over with."
Harry unsure to how believable this was, Lisa's eyes, or Stephanie's.
"How?" Lisa stammered.
"Magic," Gia said.
"Fertilize the lawn with that," Stephanie said.
"Good magician never reveals his tricks," Harry said.
"Please," Gia said to Harry.
"Been hours," Harry said, leaned in to kiss her cheek.
A catcall.
Ring!
"Sorry Miss. Prescott," said Mr. Smythe, "Have to finish your report tomorrow."
Gia grabbed her book bag, slung it over her shoulder. They went out the door, some humidity in the air, the clouds above, the warmish weather. Snuffles was nearby, though no escort.
"Press ahead," Harry whispered.
Snuffles with them, they headed for Smeltings. An officer, Ernie, panted as he came up to them.
"Sorry for being late," Ernie said, "Unavoidable."
Harry shrugged, Jen came up fast and joined them.
"Can you talk Richard into spending a bit less time in that lab?" Jen complained.
"He's happy there," Gia said.
"Harry," Jen said, "Mind going ahead? Girls."
Harry shrugged, moved faster, though Snuffles stayed with Ernie and the girls.
VROOM, VROOM
Harry spotted it, a sports car accelerated through it's tight turn onto the grass, left turf flying at his high rate of speed, as it swerved directly at Harry. Harry watched the car approach fast.
"Harry!" Jen barked.
Time slowed, for an instant, the car now in slower motion to Harry, though his movements delayed. Harry glanced at that driver's eyes, knew the intended target, him. A thought, the car went airborne, and Harry found himself next to Gia. Harry watched as the car cleared the big concrete cinder blocks, the driver fell, and the car smashed into the man on top of the Smeltings roof. Blood flowed down the outside of its gutters.
"Calm," Ernie said, "Back."
Gia and Jen stepped back, however, Harry stepped closer to the wreck, and the black rubber tire that fell, bounced along the ground.
"Includes you." Ernie gripped Harry's shoulders, pulled him back.
Ernie ran to the driver, half over the ledge of that roof, talked into his radio. Harry watched that driver, the thrashing stopped, went idle, as the upper half fell, the torso separated from its legs hit the pavement.
"That was…" Jen muttered.
Harry spun, his eyes focused onto her, knew the spectacle wasn't her focus, it was him.
"Your movement—" Jen started.
"I'm quick," Harry said.
"Not that fast," Jen said.
"Pay closer attention," Harry said.
"I was," Jen said.
"A good magician—" Gia started.
"Never reveals their tricks," Jen said, "I know! This was more than a trick."
"Ignore it," Harry said, "Or, get your eyes checked."
Harry stared into Jen's, the implantation of an idea, subtle.
"I'll be asking Richard," Jen said, "That's for sure—he's the science buff."
A firetruck pulled up, along with an ambulance and several police cruisers. One firefighter perplexed at the sight of the car on the roof. Another put a ladder up. One paramedic climbed the ladder up, where gloves and a white sheet came out. Another brought a white sheet over to the upper torso. Harry spotted the Smeltings students going outside to witness the carnage.
"Spot of lunch?" Harry asked, trying to deflect the attention.
"You're calm about this," Ernie said.
Harry glanced at the man, one who'd ordinarily be pressing in on the investigation, however, had the loyalty to the chief to protect his charges.
"He's the idiot that decided to crash his car." Harry pointed at the mess. "Girls need to eat."
Harry notched his arm at his elbow, Gia held on, and they walked, around the wreckage, toward the side entrance.
"You do seem calm," Gia said.
Harry turned to her.
"Difference between attackers and victims," Harry said, "Besides, best not go into that here."
Gia stroked Harry's shoulder. Harry spotted the curiosity, to see if the weekend had indeed helped with Harry's mental well being.
"Inside," Harry suggested.
Harry moved, Gia and Snuffles with him, Jen and Ernie followed, into the cafeteria.
Harry apparated downstairs that evening, stood behind Hermione, as she read the Apparation Theory book.
"That's pretty boring," Harry said.
"I know you can just go," Hermione said, "Some of us have to read up."
Harry apparated to the other side of the table.
"Now you're being lazy," Hermione said.
Harry grinned.
Slam
"Of all the stupid things!" Kristen complained.
Harry turned, spotted her entering the kitchen, jacket off, as she went to the electric kettle. Kristen felt it, poured herself a cup of tea. Harry apparated back to behind Hermione. Harry spotted the look from Kristen.
"Gia!" Kristen shouted.
Footsteps on the stairs. Kristen carried her tea cup into dining room, the hands with her police uniform on with its metal flair.
"Congratulations on ducking the car earlier," Kristen said, "Ernie still can't account for it all, how it ended up on the roof."
Gia entered the dining room.
"Just did," Harry said.
"Understand I've got superiors to answer to," Kristen said, "It concerns you."
Harry spotted the worry behind those eyes.
"I'm no longer allowed to provision escorts," Kristen said, "I know neither of you've enjoyed them, but at least understood the necessity. I've been ordered to remove all protections."
"Who asked it?" Harry asked, focused on those eyes.
"Home Office to Provost to me," Kristen said, "Some branch to branch mandate, approved by the Prime Minister himself. All I'm permitted to do is to sit back and watch people try to kill you. Any investigations into the murder attempts are being terminated."
"What?" Gia asked.
"Also being pressured to file charges against you all," Kristen said, "Can buck those for some time, but that may fail at some point."
"You saw—" Harry protested.
"I know," Kristen said, "Unfair to you, so I talked Frank into dropping you from suspect lists—not sure how long that'll work."
"Sounds annoying, really," Harry said.
"It is," Kristen said, "They even wanted that vest back, but with a little creative paperwork, it's now my spare vest."
"Thanks," Gia said.
Kristen went for the living room. Harry apparated upstairs, into Gia's bedroom.
"Bloody hell Harry," Ron said, curled on his side, reading a textbook, "Could you try the stairs?"
Crookshanks, behind Ron, moved his tail, brushed Ron's back. Ron reached over, petted Crookshanks a bit. Harry sat on the bed and explained Kristen's discussion.
"Damn," Ron said.
"You're learning to apparate," Harry said.
"Would've helped to have the book this weekend," Ron said.
"Sorry about that," Harry said.
"Best to wait until Hermione's finished," Ron said, "For you, it's easy. For her…"
"Gotta make it stick," Harry said, "This ain't optional."
Harry apparated downstairs, into the dining room.
"Share that book with Ron," Harry said to Hermione, "He needs to read it before bed."
"I…" Hermione started.
"Or read it together in bed," Harry suggested.
"Bedtime story?" Gia asked.
Hermione snorted. Harry sat down next to Hermione.
"There was once these three little pigs," Harry said, "One little pig made his house out of straw, the next one out of wood, and the third one out of stone. When the big bad wolf tried to blow down that straw house, that pig apparated to the house made of stone."
Hermione shook her head.
"Try it," Harry suggested.
Her brown eyes on Harry. Harry held her shoulder, closed his eyes for a moment, and fell backward against the bed.
"Can't a guy wank in peace?" Ron asked.
Hermione tumbled back into Ron, the book in her hands.
"You're…" Hermione started.
"I'll be…" Harry disapparated.
"Going to get confused which floor you're on," Gia said.
Harry sat down next to Gia.
"They're—we're in danger," Harry said, "Need them able to."
"Don't push them too hard," Gia said.
"We have no other choice," Harry said, "Every corner now."
Harry leaned forward, arms to the table, rested his head on them, unsure to the right move.
Harry rolled off the bed, which woke him Tuesday morning. He stood, thought about it, apparated into Richard's bedroom.
"Bit…Jen didn't imagine it?" Richard asked.
"Wanna bet…" Harry aimed his wand, "Uno modo Inlusio."
Richard's floor vanished from Harry's eyes. Beneath, Kristen stood at the fireplace, her eyes on the door.
"How about—" Richard started.
"No," Harry said, "Ron thinks it's a very bad idea."
"So?" Richard asked.
"Wait for it," Harry said.
Bark! Bark! Meow!
Kristen went into the kitchen.
"Inlusio!" Harry said, wand aimed at Richard, before he aimed it at himself. "Inlusio!"
"What?" Richard asked.
"Come fast," Harry said.
Together, they went out the door, down the steps, and out the front door. Harry closed it. Harry thought he spotted Mad Eye Moody, giving him a thumbs up. Harry felt the breeze and they ran in the pretty mild air beneath the clouds moving along above.
"So we're invisible?" Richard asked.
"Not quite," Harry said, "Still, I need to practice it, but we'll have to watch out as others won't notice us."
Harry and Richard kept running, reached the zebra crossing. To the far right, a man had a long case, the glint of glass. Harry grabbed Richard, pulled him to the left, and they ran to the footpath bridge, where Harry stopped. His wand back in his hand.
"Inlusio!" Harry said, once to Richard, once to himself.
"You're getting paranoid," Richard said.
"Is it?" Harry said, "You heard about that car yesterday, on the Smeltings roof, the fellow spotted me, think I might've sent him up there."
"Everybody heard about it," Richard said.
A move, they returned to running.
"I'm learning tricks," Harry said, "That's the point—everybody expects me to kill the main threat, Voldemort. Not sure what that feels…wrong."
"Man doesn't want to die?" Richard asked.
"By killing everybody else," Harry said, "Not the nicest way…dunno, hopefully I figure it out."
"There is a killing curse," Richard said, "Certainly you know that."
"Shouldn't be habit," Harry said, "And…"
Harry reflected back to it, to Saturday, the rage that had come to him, at the man trying to rape Gia; a man only breathing as she'd talked Harry down from it.
"Of course not," Richard said, "Sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do."
Another turn, Harry glanced ahead, a blue car idling with a man's nervous eyes.
"This way," Harry said, pulled to cross the road. Glance to the right, to black motor car that approached. Harry ran and stopped on the zig–zagged middle painted line.
"You're mad," Richard said, stepping up next to Harry, the breeze from the car behind them.
Harry watched, held Richard's hand, and waited for the red car to pass. Harry pulled, and they crossed. They jumped the fence, and went into the park.
"At least two I saw," Harry said, "Likely more I've missed seeing."
Harry stopped, faced Richard as the disillusion failed.
"I love running with you," Harry said, "But…it's getting dangerous."
"I'll still—" Richard started.
"They are after me," Harry said, "A million pounds and climbing."
Harry pulled out his Portkey, activated it, and set it into Richard's hand.
"I'll need that back," Harry said.
Richard vanished.
"Inlusio!" Harry quipped, his wand aimed at himself.
Harry jumped the brook and kept running.
Ron rolled as he woke, Hermione sitting cross–legged on the bed, the pages of Apparation Theory went through her fingers, while Crookshanks' tail brushed against her. Ron reached for The Daily Prophet.
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Minister's Conference
"I'd like to address a concern that was raised. First, those listed under the SDWCA are already banned from St. Mungo's, so any prohibition against Healers would be redundant since most licensed Mediwizards and Mediwitches are accredited there and must refuse treatment.
"Second, after deep consideration, I've petitioned the board of governors to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to amend the position of Hogsmeade visitations. Going forth, all students may, on the condition of good behavior, visit Hogsmeade every Saturday and Sunday, every weekend. I think the certain shops will appreciate the steady stream of pocket money the kids bring, or the smiles Honeydukes brings to their faces."
"Healing's our next topic," Hermione said.
Richard appeared and stumbled.
"Where's Harry?" Ron asked.
"Thought it was getting too thick," Richard said, handing over the Hogwarts Pin.
"Where?" Ron asked.
"Forgot the name," Richard said, "Park but no trail from the road."
A slam to the lavatory door. Richard left, went to his bedroom. Ron about jumped as he stood up fast, the door closed. Ron brought out his wand.
"Point me Harry Potter," Ron said.
Ron's wand didn't move.
"Wouldn't be surprised if Dumbledore did something," Hermione said.
"We need apparation," Ron said, "And we need it now!"
"And splinch?" Hermione said.
"Um…" Ron muttered, as a brown owl dropped in.
Ron took the envelope, opened it, out slipped three small slips of parchment, along the letter.
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Ron
These won't stand up to scrutiny, but should be good enough to get somebody to teach you.
Percy
"What are those?" Hermione asked.
"Official Apparation Training Permits," Ron said, "Blanks for names."
"Harry already knows how," Hermione said.
"Have to thank Percy for the effort," Ron said, "Guess Harry it is."
Hermione glanced at Ron. Ron went to his backpack, opened it, tapped with his wand, and went down the ladder. Over to the bookshelf, he grabbed it, Ministry: Transportation, and carried it back up.
"You're thinking?" Hermione asked.
Ron grabbed his bookbag, Hermione followed him, down the stairs, into the dining room. Gia at the other end, already dressed in her school uniform, as she worked at her homework assignment.
"Been known to happen," Ron said, "Totally accidental."
"Of course," Hermione said.
Ron handed the book over to Hermione, and she began to flip through it.
"Harry's mastered it," Ron said, "Well…good enough."
…
Harry spotted it, two canary yellow jackets, one toward the church, the other toward the bus shelter. Ahead, a man sitting in a car, the binoculars to his eyes. Harry ran, jumped, feet on the bench, to the top, and made it to the top of a front garden wall, he went over. Harry disapparated.
Splash
Harry's feet landed in the bathtub, Andy was under the running shower. A shriek.
"Sorry," Harry said as he stumbled out.
"How'd you—freak!" Andy shouted.
Harry ran out the door, a left into Gia's empty bedroom. Harry spotted the Hogwarts pin, put it into his holster.
"You—" Richard started as he entered, dressed for school.
"Learning," Harry said, "Aim a bit off."
"Aw," Richard said, "They weren't happy I showed up alone."
"If your Mum could offer us a lift," Harry said, "I'd take her up."
"That bad?" Richard asked.
"Yeah," Harry said, "Getting there…I don't want to surrender and have to leave."
"Don't," Richard said.
Harry adjusted Richard's tie.
"Walk separately," Harry said, "I'll take Gia. But…I don't want to sacrifice you."
"Ta," Richard said.
Harry apparated downstairs in the dining room.
"Ready?" Harry asked Gia.
"Take it easy," Hermione said to Harry, "Apparating without a license is a capital offense for us, one splinch and you're busted or dead."
Harry took her arm, they went for the front.
"SNUFFLES!" Harry shouted.
Big and black, Snuffles bound out the door first. Harry's wand out.
"Inlusio!" Harry said, aimed at himself first, repeated it for Gia.
Gia and Harry left the house.
"Can't we take the faster way?" Gia asked.
"Ron says it's a really bad idea," Harry said, "Gotta read up."
"We did it fine," Gia said.
"Emergency—yes," Harry said, "But not again until I'm comfortable with it."
Harry spotted the canary yellow to the left.
"Right," Harry whispered to Snuffles.
They turned right at the intersection, continued. Harry's wand came back out.
"Inlusio!" Harry said, "Inlusio!"
"Thought—" Gia started.
"Takes mastering," Harry said, "I want to be sure."
Another turn, a sight of Mad Eye Moody wrestling a man down to the ground. Snuffles roamed wide, sniffed, growled at another. Harry walked with Gia, made it to Ashton Lane, crossed the bridge, to the portable classrooms.
Buzz! Buzz!
Harry froze for a moment, his eyes picked up on the man up on the construction running a riveter. Harry relaxed, went with Gia, into the classroom.
"What the—?" asked Lisa.
Harry released the charms, kissed Gia. Snuffles came up, curled around her.
"Later," Harry said to Gia.
Harry walked out, did a fast U–turn in between the classrooms, and closed his eyes. He apparated into the dining room. Ron and Hermione still around the table.
"Found it," Ron said.
"Found what?" Harry asked.
"Charm for unsplinching," Ron said, "Here, it's…"
Harry spun around, spotted it.
"Ego…sano…defrat," Harry said, "Egosanodefrat! Sounds easy."
Hermione glared.
"Alright, alright," Harry said, "So—charm is egodefrat! Gotta want to be somewhere, so use it—there!" Harry pointed to the living room.
"Harry!" Hermione said.
"Seen what I've seen?" Harry said, "Town's crawling with people searching for us! Sorry, we're out of time to play it safe. Try it Ron."
Ron stood.
"There?" Ron asked.
"Yeah," Harry said.
Ron's wand out, he took a moment, breathed, aimed his wand to the floor.
"Ego…egodefrat," Ron said, though his wand remained idle.
"Swish and flick," Harry said.
Hermione glared.
"I know," Ron said, "Practicing the charm first, don't want to mispronounce it and end up in a million pieces."
"That can happen?" Harry asked Hermione.
Hermione shrugged. Harry held Ron's shoulders, stared up into those blue eyes on the freckled face.
"It's like riding a broom," Harry said, "Once you get it, you get it."
"Okay," Ron said.
Harry released, Ron relaxed, his mouth moved.
"Egodefrat!" Ron said as his hand did the swish and flick.
Ron vanished.
"Um…" Harry muttered, worried on what he'd pushed.
"Ron?" Hermione asked.
A few seconds later, Ron appeared where he stood.
"That didn't actually go anywhere, did it?" Ron asked.
Harry shook his head.
"Like getting squeezed," Ron said.
"Try it again," Harry said.
A swish and flick, Ron uttered it. "Egodefrat!"
Pop!
Harry apparated, stood next to Ron in the living room.
"You make that seem bloody easy," Ron said.
"It kinda is," Harry said, "Try it back."
Ron swished and flicked as he repeated the charm. Harry apparated into the dining room, Ron appeared there.
"Kitchen," Harry suggested.
A swish and a flick, Ron vanished. Harry apparated into the kitchen.
"You're not even using the bloody charm," Ron said, "Are you?"
Harry shook his head.
"Distances can be tough," Ron said.
"Even a mile can be good when in a rough spot," Harry said.
"Yeah," Ron said.
"Upstairs—bedroom," Harry suggested.
Ron swished and flicked, vanished. Harry apparated, stepped into Gia's bedroom, Ron not there, however, he picked up the protective vest hanging in the closet.
"She…," Harry said.
Harry crouched with it, disapparated, and apparated into the classroom. Gia half asleep as the film ran across the sprockets of the projector.
"Shh," Harry whispered.
Gia glanced at him.
"Left this…" Harry handed her the protective vest, "Um…put it on as soon as you can."
"You're—" Gia started.
"I can handle bullets," Harry whispered, "You can't."
Gia nodded. Harry kissed her. Harry crouched, went to the back, closed his eyes. A misthought, the protective vest, and he apparated into Kristen's office at the police station, the door ajar, the chair empty of her.
"Shouldn't call it lucky," Frank said, "A man died strangely, so we can keep this case open on those grounds alone."
"Jen swore…" Kristen said.
"Nobody can simply appear and disappear," Frank said, "Likely the stress of witnessing such a horrific accident. How did it even get airborne?"
"Lots of firsts appear to be happening," Kristen said, "So many people after a sixteen year old!"
Harry heard the footsteps approached, closed his eyes, and disapparated. He apparated into the dining room; only Hermione around the table. Harry remembered, ran back up the stairs, checked Gia's bedroom. A stomp from above the ceiling, and Harry apparated.
"There," Ron said, "Hurry!"
Wand light showed the issue, Ron had indeed splinched, his legs to the other end of the attic, some timbers blackened. Harry focused, concentrated, his heart racing.
"Ego…Egosanodefrat!" Harry exclaimed.
Ron's legs drifted back toward his torso.
"Better," Ron said, "Focus."
Harry concentrated again, exclaimed.
"Egosanodefrat!" Harry said.
This time, Ron's legs matched up with his torso.
"Don't tell Hermione," Ron said, "It'd scare her."
"Downstairs," Harry said, "Focus on Hermione."
"Alright," Ron said, wand back to his hand, "Egodefrat!"
Ron vanished. Harry apparated into the dining room, Ron sat down.
"Suppose you could've walked," Harry said.
"Not everybody's good at it," Ron said.
"Both of you need to master unsplinching," Hermione said, "And Healing—with us banned from Healers!"
Harry grabbed St. Mungo's Book of Healing as he sat down, figured it best to let Ron calm down before trying again.
"Think its time to spill," Harry said, "Kristen needs to know."
A glance from Ron's eyes, the probe.
"What?!" Ron said, "Are you raving mad?"
"What are we spilling?" Hermione asked.
"Magic," Harry said.
"That's serious," Hermione said.
"She's covering…" Harry stood again. "If she knew, she'd be able to help."
"Only if you have to," Ron said.
Harry went to the opening to the study, plywood outside, and boards across where the door was. A focus, some plaster and wood moved, returned to place.
"Muggles will destroy us," Ron said.
"Given what we've done with our secrecy," Harry said, "Might not be such a bad thing."
"It's serious," Hermione said.
"What's it at—half million galleons to kill us?" Harry asked.
"Not all of them," Hermione said, "Most are being tricked."
"If they had half the brains of a snake," Harry said, "They wouldn't be so easily fooled."
"Study," Ron said, "Worry about magic vs muggle…later."
"Yeah," Harry grumbled.
Harry went back to the table, sat.
Date: Sun Sep 24 05:31:29 2023