"How nice of you to finally join us," Lucius Malfoy drawled, his icy voice echoing through the cavern. His pale face twisted into a smirk. "We assumed the Inferni had taken care of you. Tragic, really—but at least now I'll have the honour of finishing the job !"
The spell erupted from Lucius' wand, and his Death Eaters followed suit, unleashing a barrage of curses and hexes that illuminated the dark cave like lightning in a storm.
"DEFENSE!" bellowed Amelia, her voice cutting through the chaos. The Aurors sprang into action, conjuring powerful shields as spells ricocheted off the stone walls and protective barriers.
The cavern was a cacophony of magic and mayhem as the Death Eaters' poorly aimed spells rebounded wildly, creating an unintended slaughter. Cries of pain filled the space as several Death Eaters fell to the ground, victims of their own reckless attacks.
Lucius sneered, quickly conjuring a stronger shield as he levelled his wand at Amelia. "Crucio!"
Before the curse could strike, a solid stone wall materialised in front of her. Harry Potter stepped out of the shadows, his emerald eyes blazing with calm fury. He walked to Amelia's side, his presence radiating a quiet but commanding power.
"I need my knife," Harry said, his tone steady, almost unnervingly so.
Amelia nodded, quickly retrieving the blade from her robes and handing it to him. "Peter Pettigrew is here. We need him alive and in custody."
Harry's jaw tightened as he slipped the knife into his belt. "Do you know the spell to force someone into their Animagus form?"
"Yes, but I've never cast it."
"Good. Conjure a cage and be ready—I'll handle the rat."
Amelia smirked, then flicked her wand, summoning an unbreakable cage. "Ready when you are."
Harry nodded, stepping beyond the safety of his conjured wall. With a flick of his wand, a fiery whip uncoiled from its tip, slithering through the air like a serpent. It wrapped tightly around Peter Pettigrew, who had been cowering behind Lucius' shield.
Pettigrew screamed as he was dragged from his hiding spot, his legs scrabbling against the stone floor. Lucius, shocked that his shield had been breached, hastily strengthened it and fired a flurry of curses at Harry.
Harry's shield absorbed the attacks effortlessly as he continued pulling Pettigrew closer. When the sniveling man reached the wall, Amelia quickly stunned him, ensuring he wouldn't escape. She whispered,"Mutatio Magnis,"and within seconds, Pettigrew's limp body twisted into his rat form.
"Got you," Amelia muttered, placing the rat into the cage and reinforcing it with a Notice-Me-Not charm. She tucked it against the wall and returned to the fight.
Lucius was now visibly struggling to maintain his shield. Sweat dripped from his pale brow, and his wand trembled. Amelia could see him falter—and so could Harry.
The smirk on Harry's face sent a shiver through her. He raised his wand, and within moments, Lucius was yanked forward by another fiery whip. Harry wasted no time. With a precise lunge, he drove his knife deep into Lucius' chest, whispering "Delpulso,"which sent Lucius flying backward into two of his comrades.
Before the stunned Death Eaters could recover, Harry flicked his wand again, sending a cascading jinx to ensure they stayed down.
"Well, that's three left," Amelia said with a satisfied smile as she rejoined Harry.
The remaining Death Eaters glanced at one another, their fear palpable. In unison, they activated their Portkeys, vanishing from the battlefield.
As the oppressive anti-apparition wards crumbled, Amelia let out a sigh of relief. Her shoulders relaxed slightly, though her sharp gaze remained focused on her team.
"Kingsley, Scrimgeour—deal with the bodies. Tonks, escort the curse breakers back to Gringotts safely," she commanded.
She turned to Moody, who was inspecting the cage. "Take this back to the Ministry immediately. Transform him back, slap magic-suppressing cuffs on him, and make sure someone watches him24/7. If Pettigrew is missing when I arrivetomorrow morning, it'll be your head."
Moody gave her a rare grin. "Yes, Director." With a pop, he and the cage disappeared.
Amelia finally allowed herself a moment to relax. She turned to Harry, who was watching her intently, and pulled him into a searing kiss. The ferocity of it made Harry's thoughts go blank for a moment, but he quickly recovered, his arms wrapping around her.
"Careful," he murmured with a grin when they broke apart, "we're not home yet."
Amelia smirked. "Then take me home, Potter."
Harry didn't need to be told twice. With a gentle squeeze, he apparated them both back to Potter Manor.
They didn't make it to the bedroom, instead they settled for a cushioning charm on the floor in Harry's private office.
*BEGINNING OF LEMON *
"I've missed you 'Melia," said Harry as he slowly entered her and began a gentle rhythm.
"Ah," moaned Amelia as she dug her nails into his back. "I've missed you too." She thrust up into him, using her heels the push him in deeper. He sucked on her pulse point as he picked up his pace. She could feel her body tensing and the heat slowly building in her core.
"Come for me 'Melia," Harry whispered in her ear.
"Yes," she moaned as he thrust in once more and she felt the orgasm wash through her. "Oh Harry!" She yelled as she began to tremble. As soon as Harry stopped his thrusting and started kissing her, she wrapped her legs around him and flipped their positions, so that she was straddling his hips.
"You were fantastic tonight Harry. Watching you fight is always such an incredible turn on for me." She said as she put her hand between them and began slowly stroking him back to full erection. Her eyes went hazy as she looked at him. "Your Fiendfyre form is a badger?" she said.
"Yes," said Harry with a shrug.
"So, is my Patronus," Amelia responded with a bright smile.
"Oh," said Harry not quite understanding the significance.
"I love you, Harry," Amelia whispered in his ear as she continued to stroke him. Harry groaned at how husky her voice was and immediately pulled a nipple into his mouth and bit down as Amelia started to ride him with fervour. It was several hours later when they actually made it up to the bedroom.
* END OF LEMON*
In the dead of night, Harry bolted upright in bed, his scream shattering the silence. He was drenched in sweat, his chest heaving as though he had just escaped a nightmare's clutches. Amelia was instantly awake, her Auror instincts kicking in. Without hesitation, she flicked her wand to clean him up and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him against her chest.
Harry's trembling body leaned into her warmth as he choked out, "He's furious… furious that we got the Horcrux and that we killed Lucius. He didn't care about the others, but the three who fled… he—he tortured them, Amelia. He tortured them until they couldn't even beg for death anymore. And then… he fed them to Nagini."
Amelia felt dampness soaking her nightgown and realised he was crying. Gently, she tilted his head up, her fingers brushing his cheeks to wipe away the tears. Leaning down, she pressed a soft kiss to each cheek, her heart aching for him.
"Am I becoming him?" Harry whispered, his voice so faint she barely caught the words.
Amelia froze, her breath hitching. She could feel the weight of his self-doubt and guilt, so she stayed silent, knowing he needed to let it out. Lying back against the headboard, she pulled him onto her chest, running soothing fingers through his messy hair.
"I killed him, Amelia," he finally said, his voice thick with emotion. "I asked you for my knife, hoping I'd get the chance to use it. I wanted to kill him."
Amelia's hand paused for a moment before she began stroking his hair again. "I was 19," she said softly. Harry lifted his head to look at her, curiosity etched on his face. "My first year on patrol as an Auror. That was the first time I killed someone."
She let out a shaky breath, her gaze distant as she recalled the memory. "He was trying to assault a barmaid behind the Leaky Cauldron. When I saw him holding her against the wall, I just… saw red. Before I even thought, I sent a cutting curse at him. He didn't even have a chance to pull his wand or defend himself."
Harry listened intently, his green eyes locked on hers.
"If it weren't for Moody," she continued, "I probably wouldn't have stayed in the Auror Corps. I was racked with guilt for years. I kept replaying it in my head, wondering if I could have stunned him or restrained him another way. But I didn't. I reacted." She hesitated, her voice steady but heavy with emotion. "Since then, I've killed twenty-two people, Harry. I could tell you each of their names. It never gets easier."
Harry looked down, ashamed, but Amelia reached out, lifting his chin to meet her gaze.
"But you feel guilt," she said firmly. "That's what makes you different from him. Voldemort and Lucius wouldn't have hesitated to kill you. And they wouldn't have lost a single moment of sleep over it. But you? You care. You grieve. You feel the weight of what you've done. That's why you could never be like him."
Harry's lip trembled as her words sank in, but she wasn't finished.
"You have so much love inside you, Harry. So much good. You are not Voldemort," she said, her voice fierce. "Do you remember what Dumbledore told you? That we all have light and dark inside us?"
Harry nodded, his throat too tight to speak.
"Sometimes the dark wins," Amelia continued, "but that doesn't make you evil. It makes you human. You're being too hard on yourself."
For a moment, silence fell between them, broken only by the rhythmic sound of Amelia's fingers trailing through Harry's hair.
"Now," she said softly, pressing a kiss to the top of his head, "try to get some sleep. I imagine we'll both have busy days tomorrow."
Harry nestled closer to her, allowing himself to be enveloped by her warmth and reassurance. The knot in his chest loosened slightly, and the darkness in his mind receded, just a little.
As his breathing evened out, Amelia closed her eyes, holding him tightly. For now, they had each other to chase away the nightmares.
o – o – o – o – o
Amelia woke to find Harry still sound asleep beside her, his face peaceful for the first time in days. She carefully slipped out of bed, dressed, and left him a note before heading to the Ministry. The weight of the Horcrux in her robes reminded her of the day's priority: delivering it to Croaker.
Upon arriving at her office, she was startled to find the Unspeakable already seated at her desk.
"I have no idea how you do that," Amelia said with a chuckle.
Croaker simply tilted his head in amusement. Amelia pulled the box from her robes, enlarging it with a flick of her wand before setting it on the desk. She detailed everything they had uncovered about the Horcrux and its location.
Croaker gave a small nod before waving his hand over the box. It vanished instantly.
"I will inform you when the Horcrux has been removed," said the Unspeakable, his voice calm and deliberate. Before Amelia could respond, Croaker disappeared.
Amelia sighed and walked to her chair, finally sitting down with a moment to breathe. That peace lasted mere seconds before a sharp knock at her door interrupted her thoughts.
"Enter," she called, masking her irritation.
Her eyebrows rose in surprise when Moody limped in. He dropped heavily into the chair opposite her desk.
"Mind telling me where the hell Potter learned unsupported flying? Only person I've ever seen do it is Voldemort himself," he grunted, his magical eye fixed on her.
"That's exactly where he learned it."
Moody's real eye narrowed. "Come again?"
"Harry has been learning Legilimency," Amelia explained. Moody's eyebrows shot up, but he remained silent, waiting for her to elaborate. "When Voldemort gets particularly angry or excited, his mental shields weaken just enough for Harry to use the link through his scar to access his mind unnoticed. So far, Harry's avoided anything deep enough to alert Voldemort—just surface memories. But that's how he found Voldemort's memory of learning unsupported flying. He's been practicing it ever since."
Moody let out a low whistle, shaking his head. "That boy is full of surprises."
Amelia couldn't help but laugh. "I can't even count the number of times I've thought that since June."
Moody's expression softened, though his tone remained gruff. "How's he holding up?"
"He'll be okay," Amelia replied, her voice steady. "I'll help him through it."
Moody nodded approvingly. "I'm proud of both of you," he said after a moment, his voice quieter. Then, with a grumble, he added, "But don't tell him I said that."
Amelia beamed at him, warmth flooding her chest.
"Don't let it go to your head, though," Moody continued, standing up. "It's big enough as it is."
Amelia chuckled as he limped toward the door but stopped when he paused again.
"Oh, and send a letter to Dumbledore about Lucius' death," Moody said, glancing back. "I managed to convince Rita to hold off publishing it in the Daily Prophet for a day. Dumbledore deserves to hear about it before it's plastered all over the papers."
"I'll take care of it," Amelia promised.
Moody nodded, but as he turned to leave, he hesitated once more.
"She did mention she's already working on some best-selling article. Any idea what that might be?"
Amelia frowned. "No, none."
Moody grunted, waved a curt goodbye, and left.
An hour later, Amelia had completely forgotten her conversation with Moody as she sifted through her morning paperwork. When the Daily Prophet arrived, she casually unrolled it while sipping her tea.
The moment she saw the cover, her teacup slipped from her fingers, shattering against the desk and spilling tea everywhere.
"Oh, Merlin!" she groaned, quickly grabbing her wand to clean up the mess.
Her heart raced as her eyes flicked back to the front page.
There, in bold letters above a dramatic photograph, was the headline:
"Auror Director Amelia Bones and The Chosen One: A Romance for the Ages?"
Amelia groaned again, louder this time. "I'm going to kill Rita Skeeter."
Harry stretched as he woke, surprised to see the sun already high in the sky. He had completely missed Transfiguration. Hopefully, Professor McGonagall would understand—or, at least, Amelia's charm and persistence would smooth things over.
He noticed a note on the bedside table and picked it up, smiling as he recognised Amelia's handwriting.
Harry,
I hope you slept in and didn't rush off to class. I know it makes me an awful adult to say that, but as your fiancée, I know you needed the rest. Don't worry about McGonagall—I'm meeting her for drinks tonight, and I'll make sure she's in a forgiving mood.
There's an emergency Wizengamot meeting at 2 pm for Peter's trial. You'll want to be there. Feel free to come early and visit me at the Ministry.
Oh, and enjoy the article in the prophet! I especially liked page 2.
Love,
Amelia
Harry chuckled, shaking his head. He tossed the note onto the table before heading down to the kitchen, where the scent of freshly cooked food greeted him. Alice, the manor's enchanted housekeeper, had outdone herself, preparing an impressive spread. He decided brunch would be a good way to start his day before returning to Hogwarts—or heading to the Ministry, as it turned out.
As Harry began to eat, a Ministry owl swooped in and landed on the table, a copy of the Daily Prophet clutched in its talons. The bird dropped the paper before eyeing Harry expectantly.
"Here," Harry said, tossing it a few strips of bacon.
As the owl nibbled contentedly, Harry picked up the Daily Prophet. The moment his eyes landed on the front page, his jaw dropped.
A large, enchanted photograph dominated the entire page. It showed Harry and Amelia kissing in the cavern after Lucius Malfoy's defeat. Their faces were streaked with dirt and blood, their clothes disheveled, but the raw emotion in the image was unmistakable.
Above the picture, the bold headline read:
"Auror Director Amelia Bones and The Chosen One: A Romance for the Ages?"
Harry groaned, "Oh, Merlin."
He quickly flipped to page two and began reading the article, unsure what to expect. To his surprise, he found himself laughing before he even finished. Amelia was right—page two was entertaining.
The article was a mix of surprising accuracy and Rita Skeeter's usual flair for drama. It chronicled Harry's heroic exploits, Amelia's formidable reputation, and their shared "tragic yet romantic" journey. However, what caught Harry's attention the most was a list of witches who were allegedly "devastated" by the news of Harry's engagement. Rita had dedicated an entire section to older witches who were now mourning their missed chance with "The Boy Who Lived," as Harry apparently had a preference for "mature, accomplished women."
Harry shook his head, amused. "Rita's losing her touch," he thought. Despite the exaggerated title, the article was surprisingly tame. There was little he could argue with, and much of it was borderline complimentary. Still, one question nagged at him: How had Rita managed to get that photograph?He distinctly remembered no one else being in the cavern.
"Maybe Hermione needs to have another 'chat' with her," Harry muttered.
Finishing the last of his brunch, Harry set the paper aside and headed upstairs. He took a long, hot shower, the events of the previous night still vivid in his mind. Once dressed, he prepared to leave for the Ministry, eager to see Amelia before the chaos of the Wizengamot trial began.
Today would be a day to remember, and Harry had a feeling it was just the beginning of the media frenzy.
o – o – o – o – o
While Harry chuckled over theDaily Prophetarticle, Albus Dumbledore sat in his office, studying a letter he had just received from Amelia Bones. His expression was pensive as he read her succinct note:
Headmaster,
Pettigrew has been captured. Wizengamot trial is scheduled for 2 p.m. Pleas come to my office at 1 p.m. to discuss these events.
Also, Lucius is dead. Narcissa has been informed and will be arriving within the hour to collect Draco.
Regards,
Amelia Bones
Dumbledore let out a heavy sigh, folding the letter carefully and setting it aside.
"Poor Draco," he murmured. "Without Lucius, Voldemort will tighten his grip on the boy. He'll demand more than ever."
The thought troubled him deeply. He could already see the storm clouds gathering around the Malfoy heir, and with Lucius gone, Draco's fragile sense of security would crumble.
"I should speak with Severus."
Rising, Dumbledore swept out of his office and made his way down to the dungeons, his robes trailing softly behind him. He knocked on Severus Snape's office door, the sharp sound echoing through the stone corridor.
"Enter," came the familiar, curt response.
Dumbledore pushed the door open to find Snape seated behind his desk, quill in hand and a deep scowl on his face. The Potions Master glanced up, his expression darkening further when he saw his visitor.
"Lucius is dead," Snape said flatly, before Dumbledore could speak.
"Yes, I know," Dumbledore replied, holding up Amelia's letter as confirmation.
Snape set his quill down and leaned back in his chair, his face unreadable. "I have not told Draco yet. Narcissa wishes to speak with him first. She is on her way."
Dumbledore nodded, his expression grave. "It's better that she be the one to break the news. The loss of his father will be devastating enough without it coming from anyone else."
"It will be worse once he realises what it means for him," Snape said, his tone edged with bitterness. "Those who escaped from last night's raid did not fare well. The Dark Lord was... displeased."
"I can only imagine," Dumbledore said grimly. He paused, his keen blue eyes narrowing slightly. "Severus, I'm needed at the Ministry this afternoon. Pettigrew's trial is set to begin, and I must be there. That leaves Draco and Narcissa in your care for now. Let me know if there's anything more I can do to assist."
Snape inclined his head in acknowledgment but said nothing.
As Dumbledore turned to leave, he hesitated in the doorway. "What of Draco's mission?"
"The Dark Lord has not mentioned it recently," Snape replied, his tone carefully neutral. "But now, with Lucius gone, I suspect he will wish to accelerate his plans. Draco's position is... precarious."
Dumbledore sighed heavily, the weight of it almost tangible. "I feared as much. Keep an eye on him, Severus. He'll need your guidance now more than ever."
"I always do," Snape said softly, returning his focus to the papers on his desk.
With a final nod, Dumbledore left the office, his thoughts already racing ahead to the day's challenges.
Dumbledore's next stop was Professor McGonagall's office. He climbed the spiral staircase and knocked lightly on the door.
"Come in," came McGonagall's crisp voice.
As Dumbledore entered, he was met with her sharp gaze over the rim of her glasses. "Albus, what brings you here so early? I thought you had a meeting later today."
"I do," Dumbledore replied with a small smile. "I came to inform you that I'll be away for the rest of the day. Pettigrew's trial is scheduled for this afternoon, and Amelia has requested my presence beforehand."
McGonagall nodded. "Good. That rat has evaded justice for far too long. I trust you'll ensure the Wizengamot doesn't let him slip through their fingers this time."
"I'll do my best," Dumbledore said with a twinkle in his eye that didn't quite reach its usual brightness. "On another matter—Lucius Malfoy is dead."
McGonagall's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Dead? How did it happen?"
Dumbledore's tone grew solemn. "It appears he fell in the line of duty—if one can call serving Voldemort a duty. Amelia's team engaged him and other Death Eaters during their raid last night. Lucius did not survive."
McGonagall's lips thinned. "And Draco?"
"Narcissa is coming to collect him shortly," Dumbledore said. "I've asked Severus to watch over him for now. Draco will need guidance, Minerva. More than ever."
McGonagall frowned, concern etched across her features. "Draco may be ambitious, but he's still a child, Albus. And now, without Lucius to shield him, Voldemort will turn all his attention to shaping the boy in his image."
Dumbledore nodded gravely. "That is precisely what I fear. But for now, I must focus on today's trial. Justice for Pettigrew has been a long time coming."
McGonagall stood and moved to her desk, her stern demeanor softening slightly. "Go, Albus. Do what you must. I'll handle things here."
With a grateful smile, Dumbledore departed, leaving McGonagall to prepare for the long day ahead.
As Dumbledore strode through the halls of Hogwarts, he allowed himself a moment of reflection. Pettigrew's capture was a monumental step forward, but it was also a reminder of the sacrifices and losses that lay behind them—and the battles yet to come.
Today would be a pivotal day, and Dumbledore knew the choices made in the Wizengamot chambers could shape the course of the war.
o – o – o – o – o
When Harry arrived at Amelia's office, she greeted him with a bright smile and crossed the room to pull him into an eager kiss.
"I was hoping you'd come early. I've missed your company," Amelia said as she returned to her desk.
"I've missed you too, 'Melia." Harry settled onto the sofa and pulled out the coursework he needed to finish. "Are you ready for this afternoon?"
"Yes, I believe so. If all goes as planned, we'll clear Sirius' name by the end of the day. Afterward, I hope to convince the Wizengamot to elect a new Minister. I've been rallying support for Amos," she said with a smile, gathering a stack of folders and joining Harry on the sofa.
"Then we'll have to celebrate properly," Harry teased as she sat beside him. He leaned over, brushing a chaste kiss against her lips. "After all, we wouldn't want to disappoint the wizarding world and its wild imaginations about us, would we?"
Amelia laughed. "Rita Skeeter has given me some interesting ideas."
Settling in, she propped her feet on Harry's lap and began to review her notes while he focused on his assignments.
Two hours later, Harry took his seat as the Head of House Potter and tried to ignore the lingering stares from the other members. He knew they'd be staring even more as the session unfolded.
'Sirius, it's time for Peter's trial,' he thought grimly.
"Finally," Sirius' voice growled in his head. "I'm glad you caught that damn rat. Let's hope Amelia gives him what he deserves."
Harry glanced up as Amelia entered the chamber, accompanied by Dumbledore. He gave her a small smile and nodded politely at the Chief Warlock. Moments later, a flustered Cornelius Fudge stormed in, his voice ringing across the chamber.
"Dumbledore! What is the meaning of this emergency session? You have no authority to bypass me!"
Dumbledore remained calm, his tone carrying a quiet authority. "Minister Fudge, you will find that I do not need your permission to convene an emergency meeting of the Wizengamot. However, I am not the one who called this session—that honour belongs to Madam Bones. I suggest you take your seat, Minister. Today's proceedings will be… enlightening."
With a sharp glare, Fudge moved toward his seat, while Dumbledore ascended the podium. He caught Harry's eye as he passed, offering a brief wink.
"I now call this emergency session of the Wizengamot to order. All voting members, please take your seats."
The chamber quieted as people settled in. Even the public gallery was packed; evidently, word had spread about the significance of the meeting.
"This session has been convened at the request of Madam Bones. The floor is yours, Madam Bones," Dumbledore announced, stepping aside.
Amelia rose, her expression calm but commanding.
"Thank you, Chief Warlock. Ladies and gentlemen of the Wizengamot, we are here today to witness the trial of Peter Pettigrew. I will question him under the influence of Veritaserum, after which this body will vote on his guilt. If found guilty, sentencing will occur during the next scheduled session," Amelia said firmly.
Gasps echoed through the chamber at the mention of Pettigrew's name. The gallery buzzed with whispers until Amelia raised her voice.
"Auror Shacklebolt, please bring in the defendant."
Kingsley nodded and disappeared through the double doors behind the podium. Moments later, he returned with Alastor Moody, both dragging a pale and terrified Peter Pettigrew. The murmuring in the gallery grew louder as the man everyone had believed dead was forced into a magically binding chair.
"Five drops of Veritaserum, please, Auror Shacklebolt," Amelia instructed.
Kingsley hesitated for a fraction of a second before administering the potion. The entire chamber watched as Pettigrew's eyes took on the glossy, vacant sheen of someone under the serum's influence.
"What is your name?" Amelia began, her voice crisp.
"Peter Pettigrew," he replied in a slow monotone.
"What is your date of birth?"
"9 September 1959."
"Are you a follower of Lord Voldemort?"
"Yes."
There were audible gasps, but Amelia pressed on. "What happened to your hand?"
"I cut it off to ensure the Dark Lord's return. He rewarded me with a superior one."
Amelia's voice turned colder. "What happened on 1 November 1981, when Sirius Black found you in London?"
Pettigrew hesitated but was compelled to answer. "I had just hidden Voldemort's wand when Sirius cornered me. I accused him of betraying Lily and James and set off a blasting curse as a distraction. I cut off my finger so the Aurors would think I was dead, then transformed into my Animagus form and escaped."
"And who was present during your escape?"
"A Ministry official… Cornelius Fudge," Pettigrew admitted.
The chamber erupted in outrage.
"SILENCE!" Dumbledore bellowed.
As the murmurs died down, Amelia continued. "Where is Voldemort now?"
Pettigrew's hand began to twitch violently. His breath hitched as his metal fingers clawed toward his own throat.
"No! NO!" he shrieked, but it was too late. The enchanted hand tightened around his neck, choking him as the entire Wizengamot watched in stunned horror. Within seconds, Pettigrew slumped lifeless in the chair.
Amelia maintained a calm façade, though Harry caught the faintest flicker of satisfaction in her expression.
"Remove the body," she instructed the Aurors. Once the chamber had settled, she turned her attention back to the assembly.
"Based on the testimony we've heard, I move to interrogate Cornelius Fudge and proceed with a vote of no confidence."
"I second the motion," Augusta Longbottom called out.
The vote passed swiftly. Kingsley and Moody dragged a spluttering Fudge into the centre of the chamber, securing him to the same chair. His protests were drowned out by Amelia's steady voice.
"Three drops of Veritaserum, please, Auror Shacklebolt."
"This is outrageous! You cannot use Veritiserum on the minister!" Yelled Nott. Fudge smiled briefly thinking he may be able to get out of this.
"You are not allowed to use Veritiserum as evidence in a trial against a ministry official. However, it is perfectly acceptable for interrogation purposes," replied Amelia reminding Nott that she knew the bylaws better than he did.
"All in favour of the administration of Veritiserum to ensure the truth is spoken today raise your wands," said Dumbledore. A clear majority raised their wands this time.
"If you will Auror Shacklebolt," said Amelia. Kingsley walked forward and placed the three drops on Fudge's tongue. Once it took affect Amelia began.
"What is your name?" asked Amelia in a clipped tone.
"Cornelius Fudge," said Fudge in the same monotone voice that Pettigrew had used.
"What is your date of birth?" verified Amelia.
"12 April 1954," said Fudge.
"What is your current position at the ministry?" asked Amelia
"Minister for magic," responded Fudge.
"Have you upheld the oath you took when you became minister?" asked Amelia. Fudge's face turned a range of colours as he tried to fight the Veritserum before settling on purple.
"No." he said hesitantly.
"How so?' asked Amelia.
"I have been taking bribes to pass or not pass certain legislation and to limit the funds going to certain departments, mainly the DMLE. I have also been siphoning money from the ministry into my own account and the accounts of my supporters." There was outrage at this as Dumbledore had to once again call for silence.
"What happened on the night of 1 November 1981?" asked Amelia.
"After the Potter's died Albus placed a tracking charm on Sirius because he thought he was the secret keeper and had been the one to betray them. I used it to track him to London that night. When I got there, I saw a giant crater in the street and Peter Pettigrew transforming into a rat. I knew catching the person that betrayed the Potters would be the boost I needed to eventually become minister, but it didn't really matter to me who took the blame. Sirius was the easier target. He was clearly already mad so instead of chasing a rat I just stunned Sirius and brought him in. Luckily twelve muggles died so that combined with betraying the Potters and killing Peter was enough for me to convince the Wizengamot to put him in Azkaban without a trial. I was the hero, and nobody cared enough to look at it any deeper," said Fudge.
"Too bad he doesn't have one of those fancy hands Voldemort gave Peter," growled Sirius.
"You let an innocent man spend twelve years In Azkaban only to further your career? Personally, I hope you rot in -" yelled Amelia.
"Amelia." Interrupted Albus before Amelia's temper flared any further. "I think we've heard enough for now," said Dumbledore sadly. Amelia looked at him intensely, then she gestured for Kingsley to administer the counter serum.
"A formal trial will take place at the next Wizengamot session, where all of the evidence the DMLE has gathered against Cornelius Fudge will be presented. However, I do believe this is enough to initiate a vote of no confidence today," said Amelia turning to Dumbledore, who nodded gravely.
"All in favour of removing Cornelius Fudge from office raise your wands," said Albus. Nearly all the wands were raised even the death eaters knew Fudge had outrun his usefulness.
"Very well. Cornelius Fudge you are hereby removed from the post of Minister for Magic. You will remain in a ministry cell until your trial. Auror Shacklebolt, Auror Moody please escort him to a cell to await trial," responded Dumbledore. The Aurors nodded and helped a pale Fudge out of the room.
"Given the current state of the wizarding world I believe it would be irresponsible for us to leave magical Britain without a minister, even for a couple days, so if it is agreeable, I would like to vote on a new minister today," said Dumbledore. Nearly everyone nodded their consent.
"I motion to appoint a new minister for magic," said Mr. Abbott.
"I second," said Lord Davis.
"Very well. We will hear the nominations and then vote," said Dumbledore.
"I nominate Pius Thicknesses," said Nott.
"I second," said Parkinson.
"So that's the death eater nominee, interesting," thought Harry as he watched the back and forth. A few other people were nominated but received no second. Then Amos was nominated and Amelia smiled.
"Very well, any other nominees?" asked Dumbledore.
"I nominate Amelia Bones," said Lord Greengrass. Harry noticed the scowl on Lord Davis' face. It was unheard of for a neutral family to so clearly side with the light. Harry would have to ask Amelia about offering the Greengrass' some form of protection. As long as he didn't have to marry anyone else, he would do what he could.
"I second," said Augusta and Mr. Abott at the same time. Then Mr. Diggory raised his hand. Dumbledore nodded for him to speak.
"I have no desire to be minister in the current climate, perhaps when the war is over, I believe I could be an efficient minister then, but not now. We need someone that will be able to make the tough decisions, that will work to end this war and quickly before the cost is too great to recover from. I ask you to please not vote for me and instead give your vote to Madam Bones," said Amos as he sat back down.
"Very well Amos, then we have nominations for Pius Thicknesses, Amos Diggory, and Amelia Bones."
"All those who would like to vote for Thicknesses?" asked Dumbledore. About a fifth of the wands were raised.
"All those who would like to vote for Amos Diggory?" asked Dumbledore. Only Amelia raised her wand, causing the gallery to chuckle and the corner of Dumbledore's mouth to twitch upward.
"All those who would like to vote for Amelia Bones?" Asked Dumbledore. It was an overwhelming victory for Amelia. Apparently Diggory's words about a time of war had an impact. Harry chuckled.
"I guess they've already forgotten she's shagging the boy who lived," he thought.
"As chief warlock I hereby declare Amelia Bones as the new Minister of Magic, effective immediately. Congratulations Amelia." Harry could tell that Amelia was shocked. She had put a lot of time into convincing people to nominate Amos. Amelia may have been surprised but Harry wasn't. She was the right person for the job. Harry cheered politely as Amelia stood and smiled at her when she caught his eye.
"Thank you for your faith in me. I will do my best to lead us into a time of peace. I name Kingsley Shacklebolt as my replacement for the post of Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement," said Amelia and then she sat down. It wasn't a very inspiring speech but short and to the point is what people had come to expect from Amelia.
"I hereby declare this emergency session of the Wizengamot closed," said Dumbledore as he banged his gavel. Everyone stood and began to leave the chamber. Many speaking in excited whispers.
Amelia approached Harry once most of the crowd had left.
"Congratulations, Madam Minister," Harry said with a smile. "But I hope this doesn't mean I'll see even less of you."
Amelia smiled warmly. "I'll try to be home as much as possible during Yule. Though I suspect you'll have plenty of your own chaos to keep you busy."
"True," Harry admitted. "But don't forget—I'll always make time for you."
With a soft laugh, Amelia kissed his cheek. "I'll see you tonight, Harry."
o – o – o – o – o
Amelia spent a few moments speaking with Dumbledore before seeking out her assistant.
"Clear out Fudge's office and move my belongings over," Amelia instructed briskly.
The young woman's eyes widened. "You mean... I'm now the Minister's secretary?"
Amelia nodded. "Yes. And I trust you're up to the task."
The poor girl looked like she might faint but quickly scrambled to comply.
As Amelia was leaving her old office, an Unspeakable approached her.
"Minister Bones, your presence has been requested."
"Lead the way," Amelia said.
She followed him to the Department of Mysteries, where she was directed to a desk cluttered with papers. Amelia barely had time to sit before Croaker entered the room.
"Minister Bones. We've retrieved the locket."
"That's excellent news!" Amelia said, leaning forward.
"But there's an issue," Croaker said, handing her the locket.
Amelia opened it, removing a note tucked inside. Her shoulders slumped as she read.
"It's a fake," she muttered, rubbing her temples. Of course it was.
"Do we have any idea who this R.A.B. is?" Amelia asked, clinging to some hope.
"I've compiled a list of all wizards in Britain with those initials, but it's a long one." He handed her a thick file.
Amelia took it gratefully. "Thank you. I'll let you know if I find anything."
Croaker nodded and left without another word.
Amelia scanned the initials R.A.B as she returned to her office. She spent the next few hours issuing Sirius' posthumous pardon, appointing new staff, and compiling a list of priorities for the next day. Finally, she shrank the file Croaker had given her, tucked it into her pocket, and left for dinner with Harry.
"I've finalised Sirius' pardon. It'll be filed in the morning," she informed Harry over dinner.
Harry's eyes welled with tears. "Thank you, 'Melia."
"I just wish he could see it," Amelia replied, her voice soft.
Harry reached across the table, squeezing her hand. "He knows. Trust me."
He leaned over and kissed her gently. Amelia slid onto his lap and started undoing his shirt, only to freeze suddenly.
"Sirius!" she exclaimed, jumping to her feet and digging into her robes for the shrunken list.
Harry blinked. "Should I be worried it's not Moody this time?" he teased.
Amelia rolled her eyes but ignored him, her focus on scanning the names. Finally, she stopped.
"Yes!" she cried, tossing the paper onto the table and pulling Harry to his feet. "We need to go to Grimmauld Place. Now."
Harry chuckled as he rebuttoned his shirt. "What's going on?"
"I'll explain when we get there."
Amelia called through the floo, and moments later, she and Harry stepped into Grimmauld Place, greeted by Remus and Tonks.
"Evening," Harry greeted. "Still going strong with Remus, Tonks?"
Tonks' hair flashed pink as she glared at him. "Was there something you needed, boss?"
Amelia shook her head. "No, don't worry. I won't interrupt your evening. I just need to look through Regulus' belongings. Remus, are any of his things still here?"
Remus nodded. "Kreacher refuses to let me touch them, so everything is as Regulus left it."
"May I search his room?"
"Of course."
Amelia led Harry upstairs.
"So, why are we here instead of celebrating at home?" Harry asked.
She handed him the note. "The locket was a fake."
Harry read it, his jaw tightening. "You think R.A.B. is Regulus?"
Amelia nodded, rummaging through Regulus' old belongings.
"Sirius," Harry thought.
"What's up, pup?" Sirius' voice echoed in his mind.
"You should see this." Harry focused on the note.
Sirius went quiet before replying. "Regulus stole one of Voldemort's Horcruxes... I should never have doubted him."
"Do you know anything about the locket?"
"No, but Kreacher might. He adored Regulus. Ask him."
"Amelia, do you have the fake locket?" Harry asked.
She handed it to him, curious.
"Kreacher!" Harry called.
The house-elf appeared, glaring. "What does the new master want with Kreacher?"
Harry held up the locket. "Have you seen this before?"
Kreacher's eyes filled with tears. "That is Master Regulus' locket. Kreacher went with him to retrieve it. Master ordered Kreacher to destroy it, but Kreacher couldn't."
"Where is the original?"
"Kreacher hid it in the attic," the elf admitted.
"Kreacher, I can help you fulfill your promise. If you bring me the locket, I will destroy the magic inside and let you keep this one as a memento of Master Regulus."
Kreacher hesitated before disappearing. Moments later, he returned with a second locket, identical to the first.
Harry took it reverently. "Thank you, Kreacher. Do you wish to stay here or come to Potter Manor?"
"Kreacher will stay in his family home."
"Then I expect you to care for this place properly. Regulus would be disappointed otherwise."
Tears streamed down Kreacher's face as he vanished.
Harry turned to Amelia, holding up the locket. "This is it. I can feel the dark magic."
Amelia conjured a stasis bag, sealing it away.
"What now?" Harry asked.
"In the morning, Croaker will destroy it along with the other Horcrux. We're done learning from them. It's time."
"Can I come?"
Amelia hesitated.
"When the Horcruxes are destroyed, Voldemort might think of the others. I can use that to find their locations."
"Alright, Harry. But now, let's get you back to Hogwarts before Minerva sends an owl."
They returned to the kitchen, thanking Remus and Tonks.
"Before we go," Amelia said, "Sirius' name has been cleared. It'll be in the papers tomorrow."
Remus' voice trembled. "Thank you, Amelia."
"I only wish I could've done it sooner."
With that, they stepped through the floo, leaving the past behind and preparing for the battle ahead.