Chapter 36
What Makes a Good Man?
Harry gritted his teeth. All he felt was pain and hunger, so much hunger. Why the hell was he so hungry?
The young werewolf was over one of the beds in the hospital wing of Hogwarts, his own personal bed to be precise. Madam Pomfrey had ripped his trousers to gain access to the injury in his lower leg, the wooden piece had pierced the flesh clean, touching the bone and coming out on the other side. The matron had cleaned the injury and was running the diagnostic charms when it started.
A wave of pain irradiated from his leg, his body became warm, like a fever, and Madam Pomfrey watched with wide eyes as the flesh started slowly but surely mending itself. Harry grunted and tried not to scream, and then, came the hunger and thirst. His stomach hurt and roared for something.
"Mister Potter?" Pomfrey asked, trying to assess the situation as her healer training kicked in.
"Hungry…" Harry growled.
Madam Pomfrey seemed to understand something and quickly got into her potion stash and retrieved a nutrition one, giving it to Harry.
"Here, this will help, but you will need a meal with lots of protein. Your body is burning its reserves, rebuilding the muscles, and mending the bone." The old witch waved her wand again. "I have heard about how some afflicted with lycanthropy could heal faster but had never seen it to such an extent. Fascinating."
"It hurts like hell!" Harry said after taking the potion. "Just like Skeligrow!" Madam Pomfrey nodded.
"I would offer you a pain relief potion, Mister Potter, but I'm afraid of interfering with your natural magic healing." Harry closed his eyes and nodded, sweat pouring from his forehead. "I will ask the elves for a meal once you start feeling a little better." Once again, Harry nodded, before closing his eyes in pain.
.oOo.
Katie watched as Daphne took the seat beside her at the Gryffindor's table with a huff. Tracey, Susan, and Hermione looked at the Slytherin girl with questioning eyes from the other side of the wooden table, a gaze Katie was sure she herself held.
"Don't worry," Daphne sighed. "he's ok. His leg is almost totally healed and there are no others injuries, but Madame Pomfrey wants to keep him under observation until tomorrow. Damn noble git."
Katie exhale in relief, just like the others. Looking around, more and more scared students were entering the hall after being cleared by the aurors. Luckily, no one other than Harry and some of the death eaters was seriously hurt, and Katie herself, together with Fleur, had helped in the capture of at least three of the attackers. And yet, that was not what was running through the werewolf's mind at the moment. The words she had said during the meeting still echoed through her head, and they sounded even truer after today's attack. Katie reached out and placed her hand over Daphne's, who looked at her curiously.
"I want you to know I really meant everything I said today, and that I will do it." The she-wolf said. It was funny, if anyone had told Katie this time last year that her best friend after Angelina and Alicia left the school would be the Slytherin Ice Queen, she would have said they were out of their minds, but here she was. Daphne smiled back at her.
"Thank you, Katie, I know it is not an easy decision, and I will not lie, you took a very heavy weight from my shoulders. Though, he better survive, because I certainly want my own down the line." Daphne said, squeezing Katie's hand.
"Are you really sure about this, Katie?" Hermione asked. "We are all too young, and neither of us should submit to that kind of thing if we want to change…"
"We know, Hermione," Daphne said, with a tired voice. "But, blood and magic are important, especially when it comes to pureblood and family traditions."
"But…" Hermione tried again.
"You either risk everything he owns ending up with someone like Malfoy? His legacy to be destroyed?"
"No, that's not what I'm saying Daphne, and you know it!" Hermione huffed. "I'm just saying it is not fair, to any of us, to any woman to be honest!"
"Hermione," Katie said. "I don't think you understand what Harry represents for me, for my family, for our magic. If the worst comes to pass, I am actually glad I can give him something he always wanted, and ensure a part of him still keeps going." Hermione bit her lip, trying to understand, and Katie rested her head on Daphne's shoulder. As sure as she was, the werewolf was still scared, it was something big, something that would change her life forever. "We understand what you're saying, but please, try to understand us too." Katie finished, and Hermione seemed like she had been hit, before nodding. Katie really did understand the other girl, especially the fear she could smell coming from her. This was another unique thing someone would have with Harry that she wouldn't, and something that could make Katie's life even harder in the long run.
"You will not be alone, Katie…" Daphne said, and both Hermione and Susan nodded.
With a deep breath, Katie smiled at them. It would be weird, and hard, and she was scared. but she was actually very happy with it all as well.
Her musings were interrupted as a panting Parvati sat beside her with worried eyes.
"Is Harry ok? Are you ok Katie?" The Indian wolf asked, and Katie was reminded of their new cub.
.oOo.
Fleur let out a frustrated humph as she plumed down on the couch. She was back at her flat after being questioned by the aurors about her participation in the counterattack and then released to be back at her home, to her dismay.
"Fleur! Are you alright?" Angelina asked as she entered the living room.
"Oui," The veela answered, not even trying to disguise the frustration in her voice.
"Really?" Angelina sat beside her. "You don't sound ok…"
Fleur crossed her arms over her chest with a pout.
"'Arry was hurt, and they didn't let me go with him back to the school!"
"Oh, Merlin!" Angelina covered her mouth with one hand. "Is he ok?"
"Oui, oui, he is fine, just being his usual noble self. But I wanted to be with him! I am his mate!" Fleur finished, throwing her head back. She felt her friend's hand on her shoulder.
"You miss them, don't you?" Angelina asked in a friendly voice.
"More than I thought I would. Especially him. Goddess, I miss his touch, his warmth, and his magic. I miss talking to him. I miss talking to them all. We are all so different, and yet, we seem to complement each other." Fleur took a deep breath. "Maybe is the bond, or maybe, I just got too used to having 'Arry around when I needed him."
"You know," Angelina shook her head. "If I didn't know Harry, I would find it hard to believe that someone like you would be so entranced by him. But, I do know him…"
"All I wanted was to escape with him, far away from this damn ugly and cold island…"
"And why can't you?"
Fleur sighed.
"We would never have peace, always looking behind our shoulders. The dark lord would come after us, no matter where. 'Arry would never know peace knowing he left people he likes to suffer… Non, he, we need to see it through." The veela finished, placing her hands over her face. Angelina nodded.
"I can't say I totally understand it, but I will be here with you both." Angelina smiled and Fleur smiled back, a little of her anger going away.
The veela's mind went back to the meeting, and the things Daphne and Harry had said. She didn't like it, but her Slytherin rival had a point, maybe having her officially engaged to Harry would get the French parliament to get involved.
Daphne. The girl's tone and attitude had surprised Fleur. Once again, the veela was reminded of herself when looking at the younger woman. And she knew herself all too well.
.oOo.
Harry had gone to sleep after one of the most enormous meals of his life and so many glasses of water that he felt like Ronald. He woke up later that night, feeling the warmth of a very feminine body against his side, and sensing Hermione's mint scent washing over him. Her head was resting on his chest and one of her legs was over his thighs. She was dressed in casual clothing and Harry could say she was awake by her breathing and her strong heartbeat.
"Hey luv," Harry whispered, and Hermione's worried eyes turned up to look at his face.
"Harry!" She said, planting a soft kiss on his lips. "How are you?"
"Hungry, again, and a little sore, but ok, I guess," Harry shrugged. "I think I could go back to the dorm, but Madam Pomfrey wanted me to stay. And you? What are you doing here?"
Hermione bit her lower lip, the way Harry liked so much.
"We haven't seen you ever since the professors got us back," The girl said. "And, when I saw you walking out to the square to face the death eaters, I…"
"Don't worry Hermione, I knew what I was doing, also, you and the others got my back, all I needed was to gain some time…"
"You did much more than that, Harry. Out there, you were a hero, a leader, and a force to be reckoned with. Your message was loud, clear, and…" Hermione couldn't help herself anymore and she closed the distance between their lips in a deep kiss. "But, I was afraid all the same. I was not there at the ministry, I was not there at the graveyard, and today I was afraid."
"So was I, Hermione, all those times."
"I know…"
Hermione looked into his eyes, and Harry knew there was something else bothering her.
"C'mon Hermione, you know you can tell me what is bothering you, right?" Harry said in what he thought was a suiting voice, Hermione didn't need the commanding alpha right now, she needed her best friend and boyfriend to listen to her.
"Harry, what I said in the Three Broomsticks, about having children, I'm so sorry for what I said... I mean, yes, I want a family one day, especially with you, but… there is much that I need to do, so much I want to do, and…"
"Hermione," Harry interrupted the ranting girl. "Please, is ok. I would never judge you or think less of you for that. Is your decision to be made, not mine."
"Well, I can't make a baby alone," She smirked.
"Yes, but I have seen enough of it. It is your body that goes through the most, and is your life… of course, I will try to be the best father possible to any children I end up having, but I can't stress this on any of you. As much as I love the idea of being a father and having a family, we are only thinking of doing this now out of sheer necessity. Also," Harry caressed Hermione's soft skin. "You are already part of my family. Even if you choose to be the wise aunt." He chuckled and Hermione giggled.
"I am not saying never," The witch said. "Just, not now."
"I know, and I respect that."
"Thank you, Harry, I love you so much!" Hermione said, pressing her body against him, and Harry could feel her relaxing.
"I love you too, Hermione, more than you know."
.oOo.
Theodore Nott was sweating profusely as he walked up the stairs, his hands wrapped around some of the pieces he needed to carry on with the Dark Lord's orders. He tripped over the steps in his hush, breathing heavily, cursing whoever thought that a building with so many floors was a good idea.
The so-called protest, or as some people called it, the attack, from his fellow death eaters, had been a fiasco. Not only had some of them been captured by the aurors, but Harry Potter had also humiliated Parkinson in front of the entire village.
Damn Draco and his father! Everything they had ever told about Potter was wrong: Potter was not isolated, the boy had powerful allies and was the heir of two powerful families, he was not dumb, that was clear, and by the gods, he was not weak. Draco talked about him like he was some kind of glamorous squib, but the damn chosen one was powerful! Not even close to the dark lord, of course, but way more powerful than anyone their age had any right to be. The boy had made something of Nott's magic when he broke his hand, something no one could see to reverse.
And those eyes. Those damn monstrous eyes.
Nott shivered, the only other person he had ever seen with eyes like that was bloody Greyback!
But the failed attack had worked very well for Nott, he thought as he passed back and forth in front of the ugly painting, while everyone was distracted by Potter's little show, the young man was able to meet with his father and get some of the materials needed for his mission without anyone noticing.
Nott entered through the door that appeared on the wall, into an almost completely empty room. Only a worm out and broken cabinet stood in the center of it. Nott took the shrunk book and potions from his pocket and waved his wand over them. He had to try twice before his magic finally worked properly and the items returned to their normal sizes.
"Fuck!" He grunted. That would take time, especially after Potter messed with his magic. But Nott would be successful, and he would laugh when he made Potter watch as he took Greengrass from him before the dark lord killed him, the wizard grinned.
.oOo.
"I told you already, Padfoot, I'm ok! I'm pretty sure Madam Pomfrey is keeping me here as punishment!" Harry, exasperated, tried to calm his godfather down. Sirius only gave him an unimpressed glare in return. Harry shrugged and, for a brief moment, locked eyes with Remus, who was standing behind his friend. The older werewolf looked down, and Harry sighed. He would need to do something about his relationship with his former professor, but not today. "I am just delaying it…" Harry thought with a hint of sadness.
"Again pup," Sirius continued. "What the bloody fuck were you thinking!"
"Lord Black!" Madam Pomfrey called from her desk. "Please refrain from your filthy language in my hospital, or would you like me to wash your tongue again?"
"Sorry, Poppy!" The man looked at the matron with scared eyes, and Remus chuckled.
"Wait, wait. That actually happened?" Harry asked with a curious grin.
"Not important." Sirius quickly dismissed. "Are you going to answer my question?"
"It was all theatricals, Sirius. I needed to send a message, and it needed to be public."
"A message to the dark lord?"
"No." Harry waved his hand dismissively. "To the citizens. Just like the last war, we can't let people cowardly let things happen again. They need to see that someone is standing up, so they can do the same, even if just out of shame. Of course, it will not work with everyone, but for those who just need a little push…"
"But, wouldn't that do the same with those sympathetic to the other side?" Remus asked.
"Probably, but then, we will know who our enemies are." Harry shrugged.
"How do you come to that conclusion?" Sirius questioned curiously.
"Hermione and I talked a lot about previous conflicts and especially civil wars that were fought over ideologies, both on the magical and the non-magical worlds," Harry answered and the older werewolf nodded, seeming to understand. "And what about the captured death eaters?"
"German wands for hire, most of them," Sirius said. "And a foreigner sympathizer."
"Wand for hire, like… mercenaries?"
"Yeap. I think Malfoy is helping him financially, but in a very subtle way… we can't find any links."
"Well, that bloody brilliant…" Harry looked at the ceiling. After a silent while, he turned back to Sirius. "I have some ideas I want to discuss with you."
.oOo.
Being so old and sacred, Hogwarts was the home of many powerful artifacts and magical beasts, both known and unknown to wizardry. One of those elusive beasts was something people called the Hogwarts rumor mill. It was so incredibly big, fast, and powerful that it basically had a life and magic of its own, and yet, most people tried to ignore it. And that could be a severe mistake.
After so many successive wars, blood feuds, and low birth rates, almost everyone of importance in magical Britain had their start inside the halls of the old castle, and the things that happened during their seven years stay could, for better or worse, follow them for their entire life, even things that haven't really happened, but other people only thought they did. That was the power of Hogwarts' rumor mill.
But, every year, some students realized the power of that invisible beast, and, though they couldn't control it, they could try to direct it, and learn about their peers.
And Parvati Patil was one of those students.
In the past six years, the girl used it for mostly selfish goals, like learning about other students' love lives and embarrassing dates, or humiliating others that crossed her or her more naive sister. She had also helped hide the defense club and its members last year, something that made her proud. And now, Parvati could use it for good one more time.
And she wouldn't even need to invent or embellish something this time. No, Harry had been incredible on his own, facing the death eaters and showing how powerful he was.
This time, Parvati would do something she wanted but couldn't when the whole Slytherin's heir debacle happened. This time, she would turn the school's opinion in favor of Harry. This time, Hogwarts would follow him.
.oOo.
The days following the attack had been very strange to Harry. First, he had to give a proper statement to the aurors, then the Prophet ran a piece on the attack, and, to his surprise, his little speech had been transferred word for word. He was pretty sure Lord Greengrass and Sirius had a hand on it, and that was all but confirmed as the next edition had a big history about the newly founded alliance between the Black/Potter and Greengrass families on the wizengamot.
There was also something else at work, Harry noticed. How people looked at him, sometimes smiling, waving, or with a glint of awe, reminded him more of his first year, before all the shit started happening around him.
And that was good, taking into account the other things happening. The partial change hasn't been a fluke. The werewolf felt like the full moon was close all the time now, and he could sense the signs of changing whenever he got to extreme emotions. There was nothing about it in Bell's book, or any other Harry had read about lycanthropy, and he was not sure on how to talk about that with his girlfriends. Especially now.
Although the attitude of the majority of the student body seemed to be in his favor, Harry noticed the glares directed at him by the junior death eaters and some openly traditionalist sympathizers. But, what hurt him more was seeing Cho Chang moving closer and closer to them. Even if he was not particularly close to the Ravenclaw seeker, he couldn't help but remember her words at the express. Maybe there was something he could have said to her. Maybe he had been too cold towards her pain. But the way she had treated both Katie and Luna in the past helped the young werewolf brush those feelings aside. In the end, it was just sad, to see a promising witch being swiped into a whirlwind of hatred and prejudice.
Unintentionally shaking his head, Harry took his usual place at the Gryffindor's table across from Katie and LeAnn. The chaser gave him a bright smile while her friend waved from behind the witch's weekly magazine she was reading. Distracted, Harry wondered when his colleagues had graduated from teen witch to the more "adult" version.
"Morning babe!" Katie greeted, and Harry could sense her familiar scent suiting his humor over the smells of bacon, beans, and eggs. Harry smiled and Katie's eyes brightened with happiness, how he loved this girl.
"Morning, Katie," he answered as he started putting food on his plate. Harry noticed Parvati's scent before she sat beside him, taking advantage of Hermione's absence that morning.
"Good morning Harry, Katie." The Indian wolf girl said in her usual bubbling voice, while Lavender took the seat at her left. Harry smiled, noticing how the new she-wolf sat really close to him, flooding his senses with her soft sweet sense. The wizard felt a sting of guilt looking at her, with all that was happening, Harry felt he was not giving the newly bitten girl the attention she deserved, something he would try to correct.
"How are you, Parv?" He asked with a reassuring smile.
"Better now." The girl answered, squeezing his hand. Harry felt how warm she was already, just like Katie and himself.
"Harry!" Susan called, surprisingly hugging him and sitting on his other side. Their relationship hasn't progressed beyond hugging and kissing on the cheek, but Harry noticed how the red-haired girl was much more touchy since the meeting. He felt Parvati firmly squeezing his hand and noticed the glare the Indian girl sent the red-haired one. "I just met Hermione on my way here, she said she had to tend to some potion, and she would meet us in class." Susan finished, pouring hot water into a mug for tea.
"Typical Hermione," Lavender commented. "Studying before eating."
"Don't worry," Harry said. "I will make sure to take something for her to eat. I know what she likes." He shrugged.
"Such a good boyfriend," Lavender gave him a dreamy smile. "It's a shame you are such a promiscuous boy."
"Hey!" Harry showed some exaggerated hurting. "You wound me, Lav!"
"Also, there is enough Harry for everyone!" Katie said, licking her lips and making both Susan and Parvati blush. Harry, Katie, and Lavender laugh at their shared antics while Susan just rolled her eyes.
"Hey, Harry," LeAnn finally said from behind her magazine. The werewolf had just bit into a substantial portion of sausage and just looked up with a raised eyebrow, only to see the girl showing him a two-page spread. "Isn't that your godfather?"
Harry almost choked, there, in all his glory, was a picture of Sirius Black, with flowing hair as he walked down the stairs from the ministry, probably after a wizengamot session. But what really got Harry's attention was the title of the article. There, in fancy silver lettering, he could read: "Lord Sirius Black, from undesirable number one to most wanted bachelor in magical Britain."
The young wizard tried in vain not to laugh, and to swallow his food, but it was hard. The idea of some lonely witch dreaming about his dog father while reading this was too much.
"Wait, is this for real?" Harry tried to ask.
"Of course, Harry!" Lavender sounded outraged. "He was already famous when he was in prison, all dangerous and all, now, free, looking this good, and with all his money, he is quite a catch! Easily number two or three in the country."
"Two? And who would be number one?" Harry asked.
"Why. You, of course, Harry!" Parvati said, and Harry looked at her with wide eyes.
Lavender looked back at the magazine.
"If I was a little older… but they say here he is a bit of an eternal bachelor, running away from commitment, what a shame…"
Harry turned to look at Susan with a knowing expression, and both teens started laughing.
.oOo.
Augusta Longbottom felt the wards around the mansion crumbling. The old witch closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She knew this day was coming and had prepared for it.
Augusta smiled. She regretted some of the decisions she had taken as the lady of her clan, like not allying politically with the Potters when she had the chance and her son had pleaded with her. But, at the time, she was a firm believer in Dumbledore and the so-called light, and she was afraid of too much change too fast. And she especially regretted the decisions she had taken as a grandmother. Augusta knew she had been too severe with young Neville, bestowing on him expectations that were only hers, comparing the boy with her own son. And yet, Neville had grown so much with the young Potter's help and his friends' help. He was strong, passionate, and kind.
Augusta just wished she could have told how proud of him she was before the end, but her own pride and closed mind restrained her.
As the sound of an explosion reverberated through the walls, the witch only hoped her grandson and his friends would bring the changes she finally could see were needed.
Another explosion, they were getting closer.
Augusta got up from her chair with cracking bones and tired muscles, grabbing her trusted old olive wand. She grinned. Her body may be old, but her magic was as strong as ever. She would die tonight, but she would give the death eaters a surprise they would not forget.
The office's doors flew from the handles with a bang, and Augusta saw three familiar figures standing in front of her. How she had to wait to see them again. Her anger boiled as magic cracked around her. Rudolph Lestrange had a well-kept beard starting to turn as gray as his evil eyes, his curly hair done in a loose ponytail. He was a little more corpulent than Augusta remembered but still commanded a very imponent presence. His brother beside him had a more boyish look besides his age, accentuated by his shaven chin with a smile and short hair. Behind them, watching with a toothy evil grim, stood Bellatrix. She was the one who scared Augusta the most, and something was very wrong about the woman and the way her teeth looked like yellow fangs.
"Came to finish the job you weren't able to the last time, Lestrange?" Augusta spat, raising her wand.
"Not at all, lady Longbottom," Rudolph answered with a mocking bow. "We are here to send a message."
.oOo.
The smell of smoke permeated the air, as the ash rained from the sky as Harry watched the aurors walking around the rubble.
"The whole manor is gone…" Dumbledore sighed beside him. "A clear message to us."
Harry's hands trembled, his point nails digging into the skin of his palms as the rage inside him bubbled, about to explode.
"There is something weird with the smell." The werewolf whispered as he looked around at what seemed like a scene from a war movie.
"That, Harry my boy, is the smell of fiendfyre," Dumbledore said, looking at him with a sad gaze. "Once it starts, the fires only stop when there is nothing more to be consumed." The old wizard looked up. "Augusta has gone to her next great adventure, Harry, and, as sad as that is, we need to look at living…"
Harry turned his head and saw the broad silhouette of his friend Neville, looking at the pile of burning rubble that had once been his home. Even at that distance, Harry could notice the other wizard's clenched fists trembling with sorrow and anger. He approached his friend, not sure what to say, not even sure if that was something that could be said.
"They took everything, Harry…" Neville whispered in a way that sounded more like a grow. "They destroyed everything…"
Harry was beside Neville, and he could see the reflection of the small persistent flames in his friend's tears, the smell of his anger and desperation. He could feel the fear and feeling of loss. Harry didn't know what to say but knew what to do.
With a quick move, the werewolf pulled Neville into a firm embrace, hugging his friend fiercely, trying to convey all his love and friendship. The dam broke, and Neville started loudly sobbing into his shoulder, shaking.
"There is not even a body, Harry. I can't even say goodbye…" Neville cried, grabbing Harry's jacket in desperation. "I am so mad! So… aaargh!"
"I know Nev, I know… you are not alone…" It was all Harry could say as he held his pack mate, his friend.
chapter 37
Everything is Quiet Now
Tracey and Hannah helped a crying and drunk Neville get into his room, and neither Dumbledore nor McGonagall said anything to stop them. Not tonight.
Earlier, the Headmaster had allowed Sirius, Amelia, Remus, Moody, and Fleur to come into the castle and join the others in mourning the passing of Augusta Longbottom, and before the old wizard could say anything, Sirius had produced the first of two bottles of fire whiskey, and glasses were passed around as they all talked about the old battle ax, as Augusta was called in her youth and during both wars. They listened as Neville told stories about growing up with her, the good and the bad, the happy and sad times.
Harry was not as affected by the alcohol as his friends or the other adults, so he stood there, listening and supporting his friend until the sandy-haired young wizard gave in to exhaustion and his girlfriends escorted him out.
Harry took a deep, tired breath, slowly registering the scents of everyone in the room, from Sirius and Amelia to his loved ones. Neither Hermione nor Daphne touched their fire whiskey, and the others did not seem to be drinking either.
"Poor Neville…" McGonagall said, looking at the door where the young wizard had walked out with his girlfriends. "I think most of us, if not all, know that things like this are not easy. I fear for him."
"Neville is stronger than most people believe," Harry said with conviction in his voice. "And he is not the first of us to lose it all. We will be there for him."
"Yes, I have seen that kind of look before," Sirius said, remembering the look on James' face when he learned about his parent's death. "I wouldn't be surprised by him going into battle with you, pup, and fighting like a demon."
"And I would not try to stop him," The young werewolf said. Dumbledore opened his mouth to speak, but Harry raised a hand to stop him. "He needs this, and you know it, sir."
"I know…" Dumbledore sighed. "It pains me to know that such young and promising people have to deal with the horrors of war."
"Well, we weren't much older when it happened the last time, Albus," Amelia said. "And we had to see and do terrible things."
"And it is not like we have much choice on the matter," Harry finished.
"Alas, you may not have a choice about being a central figure in the conflict, Harry, but remember, you always have a choice on how to conduct yourself," Dumbledore said, looking at the young werewolf. Harry almost flinched when it hit him. The young wizard could see the magic of the curse growing, taking over, and the smell of death taking over the old Headmaster. It was like watching him die in slow motion, and it was painful.
"I know, sir. But we tried your way. We even tried your beloved way and looked where it got us," Harry's voice was firm, and everyone around could hear his conviction.
"What are you saying, Harry?" Remus asked, worried.
"Listen to the wolf, Moony. I know you can," Harry looked at the older, weaker werewolf, who promptly averted his eyes. Then, the young werewolf looked around, at each person's face with determination, his eyes glowing with untold power. "No more second chances, no more mercy. We are the predators, and they are the prey."
"Ha!" Moody finally exclaimed into the silence that followed. "I like this lad!"
.oOo.
"Bad day at the alley.
By Rita Skeeter.
Political violence has once more shown its ugly head to our peaceful society. It happened yesterday when two civilian extremist groups found themselves in open spell fire on Diagon Alley, somewhat mirroring what had been happening in the battles between Aurors and Death Eaters.
It all started after a group of young wizards belonging to a traditionalist political group marched through the streets of our most beloved market district and started marking all establishments owned by Muggleborns or Half-bloods with a big yellow letter M on their doors or windows.
It must be said that this group had no authority nor permission to do such things, and many of the workers, owners, and even some of the customers of the marked establishments started questioning and protesting such actions from the traditionalist group.
It descended into chaos as a group of so-called progressives, many bearing robes, armbands, and other pieces of clothing with a lightning bolt symbol in it, decided to take action against the pure-blood wizards doing the marking. Soon, what started with screaming and name-calling progressed into an all-out skirmish, with dangerous spells being shot by both sides, causing even more damage and endangering people who had nothing to do with the discussion.
The situation was controlled only when a regiment of Aurors was dispatched to deal with the fighters, many of them ending up under custody.
"Those outstanding young wizards were doing nothing wrong!" Said Dolores Umbridge, leader of the traditionalist group and ex-undersecretary of the former minister Fudge. "The citizens have the right to choose where to spend their money, and they can only do that if they are informed about the shop's owners and affiliations!"
Dolores Umbridge is currently being investigated about many irregularities that happened during the Triwizard Tournament that unfortunately ended up with at least one death."
Harry dropped the paper and pushed it aside with a low growl; how dare that damn reporter compare what the traditionalists were doing with the people rising against them? Was it really that easy to not take a side? The young wizard suddenly felt his body temperature rising. His head was being bombarded by the sounds and smells from the great hall around him.
He wanted to leave.
"I… forgot my charms book," The werewolf said to no one in particular. "See you in class," Harry finished, quickly getting up and walking towards the big doors of the Great Hall. He did not look back and, overwhelmed as his senses were, did not notice as Hermione got up and followed him with a worried expression.
.oOo.
"Harry!" Hermione called once they were alone in one of the corridors, making Harry stop in his tracks. Even before reaching him, she could see how tense he was. His shoulders and neck were completely stiff, and his breathing was heavy and deep. Harry turned around, and Hermione could see his eyes. They were so intense, so close to the wolf that the witch barely noticed the droplets of sweat on his brow.
"What?" He asked, a little more harshly than usual, but Hermione did not flinch.
"How long has this been happening?" She asked.
"How long has what been happening?" Harry raised an eyebrow.
Hermione sighed and pointed at his hand. Harry looked down and saw his elongated fingers. His nails appeared to be buried into his flesh, becoming sharp like claws. Harry took a deep breath and leaned against the wall with his eyes closed.
"I thought no one would notice," He whispered.
"Harry," Hermione said, getting closer. "More than being your girlfriend, I'm your best friend, of course, I would notice. How long?"
Harry opened his eyes and looked at her.
"Ever since the train ride," The werewolf looked at his hand as it started to revert to its normal state. "It's like my magic is responding more to my emotions as the end approaches…"
Hermione took his hand, biting her lower lip, thinking furiously.
"Are you… are you losing control? Over the wolf, I mean."
"No, it's fine, I got this," Harry tried to smile. Hermione felt the urge to argue, to tell him how he couldn't know that, but, in the end, it was his magic, and she decided to trust him. "Damn, I haven't even talked to Parvati since… the attack, I should be helping her with all this. I'm being a very shitty tutor." Harry chuckled sadly.
"You know, she's not your problem, right? If it's too much…"
"I can't do this to her, Hermione."
"I know," the girl smiled. "And that's one of the reasons I love you, I just wanted you to know your alternatives. Promise you'll talk to me if things get worse!" Hermione pleaded.
Harry seemed surprised by this response, but then he smiled at her, a warm, loving smile that made her heart soar.
"Promise," He answered.
"Ok. Now, let's get to charms," The witch said, intertwining her fingers with his.
.oOo.
It had been two weeks since the attack on Longbottom Manor and the snow had almost completely covered the grounds of Hogwarts. Snape always thought that the cold outside had a way of creeping into the castle walls, no matter the amount of wards and warming charms against it. The professor had to resort to a bottle of brandy to try and keep comfortable. He was drinking too much lately, and he knew it, but it was the only way that helped him cope with everything that was happening without doing something drastic. Snape was trapped and he knew it as he ascended the circular staircase into the Headmaster's office.
It was not a surprise when the door opened right before he even reached the last step. He was expected, after all. The professor looked around at the assembled people in the room and raised an eyebrow when he spotted the Potter brat in one of the chairs. It made sense as he was the centerpiece of things, what he didn't understand was why the French veela girl was with him. Besides the two of them, there was the infuriating Lord Black and Minister Bones, along with Chief Auror Shackelbolt, Remus Lupin, Alastor Moody, and, as expected, the Headmaster himself. At least the Order was coordinating with the Ministry and the Aurors this time around. Potter and Lupin twitched their noses at him as he took a seat, probably smelling the alcohol, but Snape did not care.
"Ah, Severus," the old Headmaster started. "Knowing how dangerous and stressful your position is, it's good to see you safe and sound. I am extremely sorry to press you for news so soon after your return…"
Snape raised his hand with a hardening expression before Dumbledore could continue.
"Let's move on with this Headmaster. I am sure we all have things to do."
"Indeed, my boy, indeed," Dumbledore answered, reclining into his big chair. "So, what news do you bring from your other meeting?"
Snape looked around. Sirius had a disgusted expression, while Bones had a cold and unreadable face. Potter appeared to be listening with interest, and the veela girl seemed more worried about the boy than the meeting. Snape had to force down a sneer.
"The Dark Lord is restless. Things are definitely not going as he wants them, and that is making him even more dangerous. He clearly didn't expect the amount of opposition he received from amongst the Aurors and political spheres. I think he is realizing how important Lucius Malfoy was for his cause. As much as Draco controls the money and the contracts now, he has but a fraction of the influence his father used to have. It's a good thing we have Minister Bones at our side as well," Snape looked at Amelia. "I would try and increase security if I were you. I'm pretty sure the Dark Lord will try to kill you once again, and this time he may even do it himself."
Amelia only gave him a single nod of her head, but Snape was surprised by the anger in Black's eyes at the idea of having the minister attacked.
"What the Dark Lord was not prepared for was the kind of reactions he gained from the civilians. He expected fear and subservience but not outright defiance. He is obligated to seek support from outside magical Britain, including wands for hire," Snape looked at Dumbledore. "He knows he can't get any stronger. The time for his strike is fast approaching."
"And what kind of force are we talking about here?" Moody asked.
"I'm not sure. In his recent paranoia, the Dark Lord is not disposed to share information as he once was. I know he has an agreement with the giants from Northern Scotland and some of the trolls as well. The dementors are too unstable and unpredictable for him to count on them. On a brighter note, the werewolves decided not to join him this time. Something has happened. As much as they are afraid of Greyback, there are rumors of another powerful werewolf who opposes him," Snape looked curiously at Lupin and then at Harry.
"How long until the attack, Severus?" Dumbledore asked.
"I am not sure, Headmaster. I don't think he trusts me as much anymore," Snape sighed. "But it will happen soon. And he will try to come for you, Dumbledore."
Silence came down the room.
"So, we do nothing but wait and prepare?" Shackelbolt asked.
"No," Harry said, his voice echoing throughout the room. "We undermine him even more. We show how fake he is."
"How?" Sirius asked.
"We tell everyone the story of Tom Riddle."
.oOo.
Fenrir Greyback watched as the skirmish exploded in front of him. The werewolf scoffed as aurors dressed in red robes and black-clad death eaters threw themselves against each other, illuminated by the colorful light from a hundred spells.
Fools.
Both were so entrenched in their own shallow beliefs that they were all blind to the fact that, in the grand scheme of things, they were, in the end, fighting for the same side.
But it was not their fault, Fenrir thought condescendingly. In the end, the Weaver was trapped in the web of madness and control that it had weaved itself. As it tried to control and devour everything, the maker of webs would devour itself in the end.
How poetic. And sad.
The werewolf's keen hearing heard someone start to scream an enchantment behind him and, faster than any human, turned around to parry the incoming spell to the side with his bare hand. The auror pointing the glowing stick at him started casting again, but with a simple trick he had learned many years ago, he crossed the distance between the two, around 30 feet, with a single step. Before the wizard in red robes could finish speaking, Fenrir's callused left hand closed over his mouth and half his face while the right grabbed the wand from the hand of the auror.
The monster looked at the magical foci in his hands while its owner contorted in pain, trying to escape the iron grip around his face. For a brief moment, Fenrir had a sense of nostalgia, remembering his own wand, something he had lost a long time ago, 1917 to be precise, in a trench during the first great war. It was the year everything changed. He smiled and, with disdain, broke the twig in his hand. Nowadays, he sees wands as nothing more than a symbol of weakness. Why would you need a focus when you can feel, see, hear, and smell magic?
Looking around, he barely registered as the bones under his hands broke, and blood washed over his hand as the young wizard died. Fenrir was looking for his mate, and he saw her. She moved around to the music only they could hear, laughing as the powerful spells left her wand (she was still attached to it, but give it time), leaving only mangled bodies in her wake as she danced through the Spiral.
Yes, he had his mate, his welp, and the ones he had created. The one true pack. Soon, they would all be dancing, and the maker of webs would die because he knew the truth. Only the Spiral between life and death was true, and, in the end, they would follow its steps.
.oOo.
"Are you sure about that, Headmaster?" Severus Snape asked.
"My time is running out, Severus, and I have more sins to atone for than is possible. If I can do anything to help young Harry in his struggles, I will." The old wizard answered in a tired voice.
"Potter will not see it this way." The potions master sneered.
"Maybe; But I need to try…"
chapter 38
Severus Snape felt the one part of his mind constantly working to unravel the many mysteries of magic take in the puzzling display he was currently witnessing. On the surface, it was simple to understand what was occurring; a grown man was having a temper tantrum which usually earned a disdainful sneer and the loss of Snape's desire to be seen anywhere near such a person. Except he had the willpower to do neither as he stood in the oppressive wake of the man raging before him as he stared down at a newspaper. No, he remained rooted in his spot as he and the rest of the Death eaters weathered the unbridled magical fury of Lord Voldemort's hysterics.
"How dare they!" Voldemort hissed, holding the issue of the Daily Prophet featuring the expose on the life of Tom Marvolo Riddle. "I am Lord Voldemort! The last Slytherin descendant, the wizard that conquered death!" Snape observed as some of the other death eaters looked at each other, fear and doubt shadowing their eyes. Only Greyback had an unsettling smirk on his face."Those are lies!" The dark lord screamed, and the paper was set ablaze by his will alone, quickly burning into ashes, followed by the Quibbler magazine next to it. His magic did not stop surging and filling the room as he continued to rage at the now destroyed paper. Snape focused his magic and managed to keep from succumbing to the onslaught. The rest of the death eaters were not as skilled and found themselves staggering and falling to the ground. Greyback was the only other to not suffer this assault, in fact, he looked as though nothing was amiss at all.
The dark lord inhaled, and then let out something that sounded like nails scratching on a chalkboard, finally regaining control of his powers, his red eyes full of hate and malice as he looked around the room at his inner circle. Control, that was the answer to why Lord Voldemort would have a tantrum. Now that it was returning, the cold sweat forming on Snape's back let him know that this was the infinitely more dangerous Voldemort.
"Nott", Voldemort hissed. "I want to know the closest person we have to the Minister, I want to know each step that woman takes before she even knows it herself." Nott senior took a bow and was visibly relieved to leave the room as quickly as he could. "Rabastan, I want a member of the prophet in front of me today!"
" Who, my Lord?" The death eater asked in fear.
"Anyone!" The dark lord flicked his wand and the younger Lestrange fell to his knees, screaming in pain.
His smoldering red eyes found Greyback's, and between the screams of agony from Rabastan, Voldemort issued his demand once more, "Greyback, do not return without a Prophet worker."
Snape watched the werewolf leave with the same smirk and an aura that overwhelmingly felt like that of someone more powerful being amused with those beneath them.
.oOo.
Thanks to the simultaneous publishing in both the Prophet and the Quiblet, the Dark Lord's history was being read over the entire magical Britain and even some places in the continent. Hogwarts was no different. Some people were shocked, others refused to believe, and many had gone into the trophy room to look at Tom Riddle's award.
And yet, that was the last thing on Parvati's mind.
In a way, the witch knew she should be cold, sitting outside the castle at the end of November, surrounded by snow and even a thin sheet of ice over the great lake borders, and yet, she wasn't. Not only did her own body feel hotter than normal, but she could also feel the warmth coming from Harry sitting next to her. And it was so good. His warmth was nice and protective, engulfing the girl and making her feel more comfortable and safe than she felt in years.
It was weird. Harry was talking, and yet, Parvati almost couldn't understand the words; she was so entranced by his presence, his green eyes, his unruly hair, the small scars on his face under the growing facial hair, his powerful masculine scent, and his magic surrounding them. The young woman could hear his voice, and see his lips moving, and it sounded alien to her, but she still understood.
Harry was talking about magic and how to perceive it with their senses. The sounds of magic, the scents, and the colors. It was beautiful.
Harry was beautiful.
In a way Parvati was starting to understand how limited her view of magic and magical beings was before, even if she had come from a way more tolerant culture than the English, and, even so, Harry told her not to change who she was before.
"We, and especially I, will take you for who you are, Parv," he said. "The good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly."
"But…" Parvati came crashing back to reality at Harry's promise. "I have nothing to offer you… in the fight, I mean… I'm not powerful, and I'm not as good as you or Katie or Hermione at defense… I'm just some…"
"Nonsense, you are incredibly smart, for one. And brave. You know magic no one else knows, and you know things that are happening that I don't have any idea." Harry looked deep into her eyes, and Parvati had to suppress a moan when he touched her hand. "The pack is our family, Parv, and if you choose to run with us, I will accept you. It's the least I can do after they took me with all the baggage I have."
Parvati came close to him, he was so close, his lips were so close to hers, she could feel his breathing.
"Really?" She whispered.
"It is not easy, I will not lie… being who we are is dangerous. But I will be with you, for as long as I can."
.oOo
Harry finished the dry reading of the contract Lord Greengrass had drafted for Katie and himself to sign. He was in the Room of Requirement, in a configuration that nearly mirrored the Gryffindor common room, seated on a comfortable couch with Katie as she read her copy of the same contract while on a comfy chair in front of him.
For a moment, Harry just observed the beautiful young woman. Her jet black hair, cut short, and her amber wolfish eyes and kissable full lips pursed in concentration. The werewolf eyes danced over her athletic body, with strong shoulders and arms, the loose tie over her button-up school shirt, and the shorter-than-allowed skirt, showing her shapely legs that he loved so much tucked under her.
"MINE!" The wolf called inside him. Yes, she was his just as much as he was hers. His first mate, his first girl.
"Well," Katie finally said, getting Harry's attention. "Daphne didn't lie. This is a very lenient contract." She looked at Harry. "Especially if you take the fact that I am cursed into account." Harry scoffed. Katie looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "C'mon babe, you know that is how they see it." She shrugged.
"I know, and that makes me so… argh!" Harry answered, clenching his fists. "Sorry…"
"Why?" Katie asked.
"That you have to go through this," Harry said, lifting his glasses and pinching the bridge of his nose. "And that has to be like that… I mean… I know it's nothing like you wanted, damn, this is so… formal…" Katie stood up and walked towards him as he spoke. "I know you wanted "pups", but I also know it was not now, I know that you want to play quidditch, and be free and…"
He was silenced by her lips clashing with his. Harry was surprised at first, but feeling the need and the passion behind her actions, the werewolf quickly responded and returned the kiss. Their tongues danced against each other, and Katie moved to straddle him, placing her knees on each side of him, pressing their hips together, making both of them moan with the contact.
They finished the kiss with swollen lips and deep breaths, Katie touching her forehead on his, with eyes shining full of love and lust.
"I'm the one who chose this, babe," Katie whispered. "It is not ideal, yes, but I still want it, besides… " The Witch started moving her hips, and Harry's half-erect member quickly grew into full hardness, pressing against her panty-clad groin. "You have to look at the bright side."
Harry raised questioning eyebrows at her.
"What do you mean?" he asked while he ran his hands over Katie's strong thighs, moving his own hips against hers.
Katie moved her grasping hands from his chest into his pants and started working with the button and zipper as she spoke.
"My mom… said that… women like us…" She continued placing kisses over Harry's mouth and chin. "Get even hornier… during pregnancy… that she went… crazy…" She finally finished opening his pants, her hand grasping Harry's hard cock under his boxers. With a tug, Katie lifted her hips and released Harry's hard member from his underwear. She took a moment to admire the engorged meat, as a line of pre cum dripped from the purplish tip.
"Maybe…" Katie continued, lifting her skirt, and revealing her dumped blue knickers. "You will be the one trying to keep up for a change." She gave Harry a sultry smile, moving her panties aside and pressing the head of Harry's cock against her soaked entrance. Their lips met again in a lascivious kiss as Katie sat down, engulfing Harry's member in her deliciously warm depths. Harry had to admit that an even hornier Katie Bell, carrying his kid and hungry for sex was way more enticing than he had anticipated, and he groaned when their hips met again and he was completely inside of her.
Just then, they heard the door opening and closing. Katie quickly used her skirt to cover their lap as Daphne sat beside them with a humph.
.oOo.
"Let me tell you…" The dark-haired Slytherin said, crossing her arms and glared into the fireplace. "Even under our protection Pansy can be a bitch, anyway, have you two read…" Daphne stopped as she noticed their flustered faces. She looked up and down their bodies, and Harry felt his dick twitching inside Katie's wet pussy. Unfortunately, the sensation made the wolf girl moan. Daphne's eyes went wide, and she took a deep breath. She didn't need their enhanced senses to get the scent of their arousal.
"Fuck…" Daphne said in a low voice. "Are you two…"
Harry looked at Katie and grinned as the girl smiled back. He turned to look at Daphne and grabbed the hem of Katie's skirt. Daphne couldn't avert her eyes as Harry slowly raised the fabric until the Slytherin could see the point where Katie's panties were pushed to the side and her swollen pussy lips embraced around the base of Harry's thick shaft. Katie moaned as she raised up, and Daphne took a deep intake of air as she saw more of her boyfriend's cock coming out from her friend's cunt, only to be swallowed again when the girl moved back down, then up again. It was one of the most erotic sights Daphne had ever seen, those two beautiful werewolves, still in their school clothes, moving against each other. Even the wet sounds coming from their cores were incredibly enticing.
Daphne felt her own pussy getting wet, and while she debated getting up and giving them privacy, Harry's other hand touched her leg, just under the point where her own skirt ended.
"Can… Can I stay?" She asked with an uncharacteristically pleading tone while Harry's hand moved up.
"YES!" Katie called, her movements speeding up.
"If you want…" Harry whispered in Daphne's ear as his hand finally reached her core. Daphne moaned as he ran his fingers over her slit, first over her cotton panties, then under it. The contact of his skin with her core was electric, but Daphne couldn't take her eyes off his dick going in and out of Katie's pussy.
Harry's finger went down her wet slit, caressing her pussy lips, before slowly entering her. He moved his finger in and out for a moment, gathering her own juices. Then he moved, and using them as a lubricant, he slid against her clit.
Daphne let out a loud moan, which only seemed to stir Katie's bouncing even more, the werewolf girl grinding her own clit against Harry every time she sank down on his cock, using the hands on his chest as leverage. Harry groaned, increasing the speed of his fingers, going from pushing them inside Daphne's then back to her clitoris in a never-ending cycle of pleasure as she watched the erotic show of her boyfriend's cock destroying Katie's pussy.
SLIC, SPLASH, SLOUCH! The sounds of their coupling and the obscene sounds coming from Daphne's own pussy mixed together as they fucked and a sheer layer of sweat covered them.
"Harry! Harry! Harry!" Katie called. "I'm gonna… aaaah I'm…" The she-wolf screamed against Harry's shoulder, and the wizard moved his hips up. Daphne could see his dick and balls contracting as he came but when his thick and hot sperm leaked from Katie's pussy, it was too much for Daphne. She bit on Harry's other shoulder and came as her entire body trembled in pleasure.
The contracts could wait a little longer.
.oOo.
Two days later, Hermione watched as Harry shoved the newspaper away from him over the breakfast table. After their talk about his unusual shifts, she had taken to notice the small signs from her boyfriend's actions, the low, almost inaudible growls, his legs non-stop trembling, his fingers knocking against the table.
Harry was anxious. Every time he read news about the skirmishes, or new conflicts happening somewhere, Hermione could feel it, the wolf hated being idle.
And she was not the only one to notice. Daphne, Katie, and Fleur were also worried that he was trying to push himself too much. Lately, Harry was always training, always looking for some new information, always hunting. Every time he looked at them, Hermione could see a shadow of fear and rage in his emerald eyes. And she felt that same shadow pushing him away. Harry's time with any of them was getting shorter and shorter, and Hermione feared that ending back at Hogwarts was making him come back into certain toxic behaviors from the previous year.
"I thought he was getting better." Katie had commented a couple of days before, when Harry was trying to teach Parvati, and the four girls had decided to take advantage and meet at Fleur's apartment during that time.
Hermione was lying on Fleur's shoulder and was about to answer when the veela spoke.
"I think that after all that Harry went through, and still is going, the road to recovery is not a straight line, ma cherie," The French girl stroked Hermione's hair as she spoke. "He will have good and bad days."
"Yes," Daphne said. "He feels like he is not doing enough, even if he is giving his all."
"But he is…" Katie huffed, and for a moment Hermione envied the she-wolf's straight way of thinking, but she knew mental health situations were not so simple.
"Yes," Fleur continued. "But he was told all his life he wasn't, and sometimes it is hard to let things like that go."
"I don't like that he is trying to hide it from us, and creating distance." The she-wolf continued. "Harry is training to do too much. He is getting too tired…"
"We just have to remind him," Hermione said. "I believe in him. If we talk to him, he will get better. We can't make the same mistake we did last term and not communicate between ourselves." All the girls nodded at that. They would not let Harry be stubborn and try to carry everything by himself again.
Back in the present, Hermione gently placed her hand over Harry's, interlacing their fingers together, and got the wizard to look at her.
"Hey," the witch said with a soft smile. "Talk to me, luv. Please don't lock us out."
A surprised but thankful smile graced Harry's handsome features, and for a moment, Hermione could see the magic colors connecting them. The werewolf waved his other hand and the witch felt the muffliato spell around them and again she was impressed by how powerful he was.
"I… I don't know Hermione, I read about those fights, the people with the lightning bolt insignias, and I feel like I am stuck here, like I'm not doing enough to help…"
Hermione pressed their hands, not caring if anyone would see them.
"That's not true, Harry. We have been watching you, you are preparing yourself, obsessing about things in a not very healthy way if I am being honest." Harry was taken aback by her words. "You are helping prepare the students to fight…" Hermione bit her lip. "And, let's be honest, we all know it will end up between you and him, so it makes sense for you to prepare." She looked deep into his eyes. "But please, don't lose yourself again… you are not just a fighter… you are also our Harry…"
They looked at each other, and Hermione could almost see the gears in his head running. Harry let out a deep breath before reaching his hand to her face and caressing her blushing cheek.
"You are right, as always…"Harry chuckled. "Is just… the wolf is ready… I feel the need to protect all of you…" He took a deep breath. "Sometimes it is scary how easy it is to go back to certain patterns, sorry."
"I know luv…" Hermione kissed the palm of his hand. So engrossed they were with each other that it took some time for them to notice the silence in the great hall and every pair of eyes looking at them with astonishment, including the professors.
"Eeerr… What's going on?" Harry asked Parvati after dispelling the muffliato bubble. The Indian werewolf pointed at something behind him.
Harry and Hermione turned around and stared in shock. There before them stood every ghost from the castle, even Mirtle and Peeves. When Harry turned and stood up, a pair of them that Hermione recognized as the Blood Baron and the Gray Lady approached him with apprehensive expressions.
"Hum… hello?" Harry said.
"We that no longer live but are not truly dead…" The deep voice of the baron echoed through the hall as he spoke. "Humbly ask for an audience with magic's fierce hunter."
.oOo.
Olivia Brentwood had never worked so much in her life as she did in the last three days. The Daily Prophet always had a lot of mail, but nothing compared to the mountains of letters they had received since the article on the dark lord had been published.
The witch never had a brilliant future ahead of her, and she knew it. Her Hogwarts grades were barely passable, and with no family name to carry her into a high-paying job, she ended up working as a receptionist in magical Britain's biggest newspaper, but lately, the volume of correspondence was so overwhelming that Olivia was called to help. And yet, she was happy she only had to sort the letters and not read them. At least it was something different for her to do.
She was taken out of her musings by the sound of the building's door opening. The Daily Prophet occupied the entirety of a small three-store building in Diagon Alley, and they usually had very few visitors, so Olivia was not surprised at seeing Walter, one of the junior journalists entering the hall. The witch smiled with a light blush, getting ready for their usual flirting before he got up the stairs to deliver his stories to printing.
"Hello Walt…" Olivia started, but she was taken aback by the young man's appearance. Walter was dressed in an unusually long and heavy brown cloak that covered his entire body from the neck down, and the witch could hear the sound of glass hitting against glass every time he took a slow step closer. His mouth was slightly open, showing his clenched teeth, and his face was covered in sweat and tears.
But the worst were his eyes. They looked empty, and unfocused, almost like he couldn't see in front of him.
"Walter…" Olivia said in a low tone. "W… what happened, is everything ok?"
"I… I'm so sorry…" the wizard answered. "I tried. I tried to fight it… but it was too strong… his will is too strong… I can't fight it…" every word seemed painful, and, as he spoke, Walter opened his heavy cloak, revealing his torso covered with potion vials. "I'm so sorry…" was the last thing he said.
.oOo.
The explosion destroyed leveled the Daily Prophet building and part of the adjacent stores, green flames engulfed what little had remained while the image of a snake coming out of a skull floated above it.