CHAPTER 43: A FAMILY DIVIDED
The Great Hall's doors suddenly swung open, and a group of men dressed in black filed in. Their stern, professional demeanor immediately identified them as Aurors. At the forefront of the group was a striking figure with bright red hair.
Percy Weasley led the way, his presence drawing the attention of his two younger brothers. Ron, sitting with a mix of curiosity and concern, observed silently. Ginny, on the other hand, sprang from her seat, a smile of excitement and relief on her face. She made her way toward Percy, only to be intercepted by one of his companions.
"It's alright, Thorbey. She's my sister," Percy said, gesturing for the Auror to step aside. Ginny tried to embrace Percy again, but he held her back gently.
"I'm glad to see you too, Ginevra," Percy said, his tone somewhat formal. "But I don't think these acts of... familiarity are appropriate at the moment." His words carried an air of professionalism that surprised Ginny.
"You're being ridiculous," Ginny retorted, her frustration evident. "I'm your sister!"
Percy's expression softened slightly, but he remained steadfast. "I understand that, but right now, I'm here as a representative of the Ministry, not as your brother. We're tasked with interrogating Daphne Greengrass."
Ginny's eyes widened with concern. "Is that why you're here? To question Daphne?"
"Yes," Percy confirmed. "Is there anything you need from me while I'm here?"
Ginny hesitated for a moment, her stern gaze softening as she spoke with genuine concern. "Not in your official capacity, but yes. Please write to Mum. She's struggling a lot right now. You have to understand—"
Percy nodded, his face showing a rare glimpse of empathy. "I'll make sure to write to her. She needs to know we're all thinking of her."
Ginny managed a grateful smile before her gaze shifted back to Percy's companions, who were now preparing to speak with Daphne. The mood in the Great Hall grew tense as students whispered among themselves, exchanging worried glances.
Tonks, seated at the Gryffindor table, observed the scene with a keen eye. The arrival of the Aurors, especially with Percy leading them, signaled that something significant was about to unfold. She noted the anxiety in Daphne's eyes and the tension in the air. She knew she would need to talk to Harry to get a clearer picture of what was happening.
As the Aurors approached Daphne, a palpable hush fell over the Great Hall. The gravity of the situation cast a heavy shadow over everyone present. Percy Weasley's stern demeanor only heightened the tension as he moved past Ginny, who looked both hurt and betrayed, and made his way to the Headmistress's table.
"I understand, Ginevra," Percy said, his voice firm and unyielding, "but at the moment, my stance on this matter is non-negotiable." He walked past his sister without a second glance and stopped before Professor McGonagall.
Ginny, her heart aching, returned to her seat beside Ron. He wrapped an arm around her, offering what comfort he could. "You know he's always been a bit of an idiot. Why are you so surprised?" Ron's attempt at humor was meant to ease the tension, but Ginny's frustration remained palpable.
"Did you hear him?" Ginny's voice trembled slightly. "He wants nothing to do with us. He sounded... well, he sounded like a Slytherin."
"Ginny, forgive me for saying this," Hermione interjected, her frustration evident, "but Percy is not like a Slytherin. He's just incredibly conceited and annoyingly self-righteous." Her irritation with Percy's behavior was clear.
Daphne, her hands trembling slightly as she held Colin's, glanced around nervously. "Is it really them?" she asked, her voice quivering.
Ginny nodded solemnly. "Yes, it's them."
"You're lucky," Ron said with a wry smile, trying to lighten the mood. "If my brother is leading them, they're the most clueless group I've ever seen." He gestured toward Daphne's former Slytherin classmates, who were still chuckling at the commotion. The comment elicited a few appreciative smiles from the group.
As the Headmistress stood up and left with the Ministry representatives through the side door, Remus Lupin approached the group with a purposeful stride. His presence was reassuring, and they knew he was there to guide Daphne through the process.
"Miss Greengrass, would you be so kind as to accompany me to the Headmistress's office?" Lupin asked politely. Daphne squeezed Colin's hand tighter, a gesture that did not go unnoticed by Lupin. "Your friends are welcome to join us if they wish."
Without hesitation, the group followed Lupin towards the stone gargoyle guarding the entrance to the Headmistress's office. The Ministry representatives seemed taken aback by the students' determination to accompany Daphne.
"What is this?" Percy asked, clearly frustrated. "We only need to speak with Miss Greengrass."
"Is it really necessary to have six Aurors and a Ministry representative just to talk to one student?" Harry's voice was calm but firm. His presence made it clear that he was not going to back down. Some of the students, sensing the intensity of the situation, stood their ground, refusing to leave.
"The Ministry does not debate its actions," Percy replied with a hint of irritation.
"I know," Harry said, stepping closer to Daphne. "That's why we're here with her." He emphasized "my friend" with conviction. "I've had enough dealings with the Ministry to know that I won't let my friend go through this alone."
Percy's face reddened with frustration. "But we…"
"It's seven against one!" Harry interrupted, his tone resolute. "With us here, the odds are a little more even."
"We're actually seven against seven," a frustrated Tonks said as she entered through the door. "Minerva, either you come down to your office, or you let me use a broom! It's getting more difficult for me to climb these stairs!" She rested a hand on her prominent belly and gratefully accepted a chair that Lupin conjured. "Thanks; this little one is starting to weigh a bit." She shot Harry a warm, tired smile, which he returned with equal affection.
The Ministry representatives were at a loss. Despite their attempts to enforce their authority, nothing they did seemed to persuade the students to leave. Percy, realizing his usual tactics weren't working, considered a last-ditch effort, one that he would have been better off leaving unexplored.
The corridor was thick with anticipation as students and staff waited for the confrontation to unfold. Despite the tension that crackled in the air, the loyalty of Daphne's supporters remained unwavering. They were prepared to stand by her, no matter the cost.
"Ginny, please, convince them to leave," Percy urged, his voice edged with frustration. "Will you do it for your brother?"
Ginny's expression hardened. "I'm sorry, Percy, but all I see is a Ministry representative who doesn't seem to grasp the gravity of the situation."
Percy, recognizing the futility of further discussion, understood that silence was his best option. The chaos in the dining hall had made it clear that pushing too hard might backfire. He steeled himself for the task ahead, ready to begin the interrogation with the assistance of the Aurors.
"Alright, let's get started," Percy announced, gesturing to a chair for Daphne.
As Daphne took her seat, the Aurors began to surround her. However, a couple of her supporters, including Colin Creevey, positioned themselves strategically around her. Colin stood directly behind Daphne, his hands resting protectively on her shoulders.
One of the Aurors, who had a clear dislike for Tonks, gave her a disdainful look.
"What?" Tonks asked, her tone challenging.
"Pregnancy looks good on you," the Auror sneered. "I'd give anything to be the one who did it."
Tonks bristled at the remark but noticed Harry's hair stirring as if touched by an invisible breeze. His anger was palpable, and she could sense his powers straining against his control.
"You're not man enough to even try," Tonks retorted sharply. "He gives me everything I need and more! And if you knew how powerful my husband is, you wouldn't even dare to think about it!" She flashed a mocking smile, which took Harry by surprise and inadvertently helped him regain his composure. The Auror's idiotic expression drew laughter from the group, and the man fell silent, clearly embarrassed.
"Are you going to allow this?" Percy asked, casting a frustrated glance at the Headmistress. "They're distracting us. We need to conduct this interrogation in private."
McGonagall raised an eyebrow. "Do you really think I'm going to leave one of my students alone with six Aurors and you, Mr. Potter? You and your friends have the full authorization to stay with Miss Greengrass for as long as you wish. In fact, I insist upon it!"
Realizing that his plans were thwarted, Percy resigned himself to the situation. "I assume you're aware of why we're here?" he began.
"I've read the newspapers," Daphne replied coolly. Supported by the presence of her allies, her Slytherin pride surfaced, revealing a calm and collected demeanor that surprised Percy. He had expected a nervous, frightened girl, but instead, he found someone who was poised and articulate.
"Are you aware of what happened to your father?" Percy pressed.
"He brought it upon himself," Daphne answered with a touch of bitterness.
"Didn't you know about his affiliations?" Percy asked, locking eyes with her.
"Do you know what our parents teach us about our status?" Daphne's gaze was steady. "We're instructed to honor our family's name, to associate only with our kind, and to avoid getting involved in anything that could be detrimental. Obviously, my father wouldn't willingly disclose his allegiances to me." She waved her hand dismissively.
"Do you feel anything about his death?" Percy's tone was probing.
"He raised me to be this way," Daphne replied coldly. "He'd be proud of me. Besides, he never treated me like a daughter, only as a legacy."
"There are different kinds of families," Ron interjected, glancing at his brother.
"Ron, this doesn't concern you," Percy snapped.
Ron made a comical gesture, as if zipping his mouth shut, and fell silent.
"Don't you have any concerns about your mother?" Percy asked.
"Only what the newspapers say—she's being sought after," Daphne said, her tone flat. "Honestly, I hope she stays hidden."
"You don't feel any affection for her?" Percy's tone was incredulous.
"No, on the contrary, I love her very much," Daphne said with a hint of sarcasm. "She's different from my father. But if she's found, she'll share the same fate as my father. The Death Eaters don't leave loose ends."
"Why are you so certain?" Percy asked, his curiosity piqued. "Do you know something we should be aware of?"
Daphne smirked. "Yes, if those tasked with finding her are you," she looked around pointedly, "she'll remain hidden. He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named has a better chance of locating her than the entire Ministry combined."
"You should be aware that you are now the sole heir to your family's fortune and assets. If we discover any involvement or hidden information on your part, the Ministry will seize everything," Percy warned, his voice stern.
Daphne leaned forward slightly, her demeanor unshaken. "I'm fully aware."
The atmosphere remained charged as the interrogation dragged on, each exchanged word heightening the tension. Daphne's calm demeanor only seemed to irritate Percy more, his frustration evident.
"I know," Daphne said coolly. "Believe me, I'm not as foolish as—" She let the sentence trail off, recognizing that provoking Percy further was unwise.
Percy stood abruptly, signaling the Aurors. They exchanged glances but followed his lead, exiting the room. The investigation had reached an impasse; continuing was futile. Just as he reached the door, McGonagall's voice called out, stopping him in his tracks.
"Mr. Weasley!" McGonagall said, holding up a small vial. "You forgot your... Veritaserum!" Her voice carried through the room, drawing attention to the red-faced Percy.
The room fell silent as the implication sank in. With the Veritaserum, they could have conducted a thorough interrogation. Without it, Daphne would be left to face whatever came next, potentially ending up in Azkaban if the situation escalated.
Trying to salvage his dignity, Percy made a half-hearted attempt at a grand exit. "Headmistress, Professor, kids, Mrs. Potter!" He gave a quick nod and departed, closing the door behind him.
A stunned silence followed. Daphne and Colin exchanged wide-eyed glances, their shock evident.
"Did he just say 'Mrs. Potter'?" Daphne asked, pointing at Tonks in disbelief.
"Nooo, you must have misheard!" Ron insisted, his face pale.
"I heard it too!" Colin chimed in, looking between Harry and Tonks. "Harry, explain what's going on!"
Harry glanced at Ron and Ginny, sensing the gravity of the situation. "Is he your brother? Because I don't know anyone more foolish in the entire magical world. Hagrid might let something slip, but your brother understands the stakes."
"Harry!" Ron and Ginny said in unison, realizing there was no escape from the truth.
Harry turned to McGonagall, who took a deep breath. "Kids, we're about to share some highly classified information," she said, her tone serious. "This is delicate, so listen carefully. Professor Tonks—"
"She's my wife," Harry interjected, stepping closer to Tonks and taking her hand. "Her name is Nymphadora Potter." The room fell silent as the gravity of Harry's statement registered.
Daphne and Colin's jaws dropped, unable to process the revelation. Harry gave them a moment to absorb the news before continuing.
"Daphne, you've asked for a bit of trust," Harry said. "You know something that very few people do, just like Colin here. I can't think of a better way for you to show your sincerity and remorse."
"I understand," Colin said quickly. "You can count on me."
"Then…" Harry gestured towards Tonks's belly. "It's Harry's!"
Colin smiled at Harry's comment. "We both prefer them older than us," he added with a shrug. Tonks shot him a reproachful look, giving him a gentle but firm nudge. "Ouch, sorry!" Colin winced.
"I'm not that old!" Harry said, moving in to kiss Tonks. But—
"Mr. Potter!" McGonagall's voice cut through the moment.
"Sorry!" Harry said, blushing as he pulled away from Tonks.
Ron's mind raced as he considered the ramifications. "When the Ministry finds out that Daphne withheld information or if she's betrayed by her former allies, they'll arrest her!"
The room fell into a contemplative silence as the weight of their predicament settled over everyone. Daphne's future now depended on the fragile trust they had extended and the choices she would make moving forward.
"She has the full support of Hogwarts," Harry declared with conviction. "To arrest her, they would have to arrest all of us!"
"And they won't dare touch us!" Harry's statement was firm as he looked to the Headmistress for confirmation.
An hour later, as they left McGonagall's office, Colin and Daphne were updated on everything related to the wedding. The revelation was almost too surreal for them to fully believe. They had sworn an oath of silence until all details were confirmed, though Colin quickly took the opportunity to discreetly congratulate Harry.
Daphne Greengrass, once a steadfast Slytherin, had now embraced a new identity. She was frequently seen with her boyfriend, the exuberant Colin Creevey, or with the seventh-year girls from Dumbledore's Army. Her transformation was notable; though she still occasionally exhibited her old Slytherin traits, her behavior had improved significantly. Her occasional sharpness in conversations was now often tempered by her new circle of friends. Ron humorously described her as "a lion with a serpent's tongue," a comment that made Daphne herself chuckle.
As Harry approached the Headmistress's office, he called out, "Headmistress!"
"Come in, Harry! I've been expecting you. Ready for your new training?" McGonagall's tone was both welcoming and authoritative.
Harry entered the office and followed her to a nearby room. The space was stark, with only a small tea table in the center surrounded by two cushions. The room was dimly lit by flickering torches on the walls, reminiscent of Trelawney's Divination class in its somber, mystical ambiance.
McGonagall gestured for him to sit. "I am very proud and impressed by your progress. You've managed to cast a wide range of spells without verbal incantations and, impressively, almost all of them without a wand!" Harry blushed slightly at the compliment. "This is why I've decided it's time to focus on developing your innate power."
Harry sensed the seriousness of the moment. "From now on, we'll dedicate two classes to help you tap into that power within you. As I mentioned before, you cannot rely on external triggers, as they might not only fail to activate your power but could also leave you vulnerable and defenseless."
"I don't quite understand," Harry admitted, looking puzzled.
McGonagall's expression grew serious. "Imagine someone is about to attack someone you care about—Nymphadora, for instance." Harry's expression tightened at the mention of Tonks. "Your power would instinctively start to manifest. But if that danger is neutralized before she is harmed, your power could be stifled. You would be left vulnerable, unable to defend yourself while your opponent could potentially finish you off."
The notion of losing Tonks and being powerless to protect her hit Harry hard. He nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation.
"I think I understand," Harry said, his voice steady but tinged with concern. McGonagall's approving nod gave him a sense of reassurance.
"Good," McGonagall said, settling down across from him. "Now, I want you to relax. Focus on recalling a moment when you felt your power most strongly. It's best if this memory is one of high intensity, as you'll be more in touch with your power. If you feel it starting to fade, let me know and try to relax."
Harry closed his eyes, delving into his memories to summon the moment when he had felt his power surge most intensely. The room remained eerily silent, save for the gentle rustling of his breath and the occasional crackle of the torches on the walls. He focused intently, trying to channel the intensity of that past experience into his current state, steeling himself for the challenge ahead.
He recalled the moment he had felt his power surge most vividly—the realization of his deep love for his wife, Tonks. It was a painful memory, not because of the love itself, but because it was linked to a traumatic event. He saw in his mind's eye the image of Tonks being hurt in her own home, her fall, and the intense sensation that had gripped his chest. That feeling had spread throughout his body, intensifying and radiating outward.
"Harry, relax! HARRY!" McGonagall's voice broke through the intensity of his focus. She noticed his hair moving as if a breeze were swirling around him and observed the faint, shimmering aura forming around him. The aura cast a faint glow in the dim room, its power palpable and overwhelming.
McGonagall felt the surge of power and understood its potential for destruction. "What happened?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern.
Harry opened his eyes, the powerful sensation gradually fading. He could still feel the remnants of the aura dissipating around him. "I felt the same as before," he said, his voice steady but tinged with confusion. "It was like something was growing in my chest and filling me up completely. It felt as if it wanted to break free, and it was waiting for me to let it out somehow."
McGonagall nodded thoughtfully. "When your power manifests, it spreads through your body and out through your skin, creating that glow you saw. We need to work on controlling that aspect. If your aura is visible, it could alert others, making you vulnerable to attacks before you even have a chance to act. Do you recall where you felt the power most intensely?"
Harry pointed to his heart. "Here."
McGonagall's eyes softened with understanding. "At least we know where it originates. I'm pleased to tell you that it's pure power." She noted Harry's puzzled look. "The fact that it emanates from your heart indicates that it is driven by very intense and pure feelings. What were you thinking about when you felt this power?"
"I was thinking about the time they hurt Nym in her house," Harry replied. "That was when I felt the most power and caused the most damage."
"Do you want more evidence?" McGonagall inquired, seeing his thoughtful expression. "I believe it's safe to say that your primary concern in that moment was saving Nymphadora. You've always shown more concern for others than for yourself. I'm certain that at that moment, something inside you recognized that what you felt for her was deeper and more significant. That's why your power was so potent and destructive; it came from your love and your desire to protect her."
Harry's expression turned somber. McGonagall continued, "It may seem somewhat selfish, but consider that you were acting out of love for someone else, not just yourself. This has likely occurred with other people you care about deeply."
Harry's mind flashed back to another instance. "When Malfoy was about to kill Hermione," he said quietly, "my power also surged."
McGonagall's eyes widened slightly. "Yes, it seems your power is closely tied to your emotional state, particularly when it involves protecting those you care about. We need to refine your ability to control and harness this power effectively, so you can use it when needed without it overwhelming you."
Harry nodded, feeling the weight of the responsibility resting on his shoulders. He was ready to face the challenge and master his power, both for his own sake and for the safety of those he loved.
"Dumbledore was right," McGonagall said, her voice firm and reassuring. "Your greatest power is love! Your intense and pure desire to protect all your loved ones materializes in your powers. Remember what Albus told you: never give up on love! This is what makes you more powerful than the Dark Lord could ever be." Harry felt a surge of confidence at her words.
McGonagall continued, "From now on, we will focus on helping you use your power effectively. The first step will be learning to locate and merge it with your magic. This way, you won't have to wait for a crisis to unleash your power. You'll be able to control and utilize it at will." She glanced at a small pocket watch she carried. "We'd better wrap up the class now! Your friends are surely waiting for us for... you know what!" she said with a hint of mischievousness.
Harry understood immediately—McGonagall was referring to their Animagus lessons. To keep the sessions light-hearted and to avoid drawing attention, they had taken to referring to them with playful nicknames. Harry was known as the "flying matchstick," Hermione and Ron were the "whiskered ones" (a moniker Ron was less than thrilled with), and Ginny was affectionately called "little feathers" for the way her stray hairs would fall unnoticed.
They left the room and made their way to the training area, where their friends and Lupin were waiting. The atmosphere was one of anticipation and camaraderie. As they entered, the group settled into their usual positions, ready to continue their Animagus training.
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