Harry Potter and the Hall of Justice

Chapter 20 Athena and Coeus


Over fifteen hundred miles from Hogwarts in the Carpathian Mountains of Eastern Europe, an ugly, pinched-faced wizard went about preparing his master’s next meal. The young girl had struggled admirably against the evil little man, as he ripped clothing from her body. As always, he became aroused by the screams and pleadings. After shackling the girl’s wrists, he decided to quickly use her to satiate his own carnal cravings before she satisfied his master’s hunger.

The wizard’s tattered ear and missing finger were indications he hadn’t led a sheltered life. As the girl fought against the rough fondling of her virgin flesh by flailing her legs wildly about, the wizard laughed out and became even more aroused.

“You will make a most tasty treat for the master!” Peter Pettigrew exclaimed, after wrapping a filthy hand around the girl’s brown hair and yanking her head around to sneer into her terrified face. “But first, you must be tenderized a little, wouldn’t you agree?”

The young girl was one of many his master would devour in making his way back from near non-existence. Human flesh was what he craved, what he had to have. And it was Pettigrew’s task to make sure he had all the fresh, young flesh he desired, whenever he wanted it.

As there had been much upheaval in this part of the world, Wormtail, as Pettigrew was known, found it very easy to find attractive flesh at bargain prices. A number of young girls had been purchased from their own desperate families, after being convinced the young girls would be rescued from their hopeless futures and taken to another, friendlier part of the world. But what he couldn’t buy for his master, he simply took.

With some effort, Wormtail was finally able to lock shackles around each ankle of the struggling girl. He then began cranking at four winches, which raised each of the shackles locked tightly at the girl’s wrists and ankles. As she was lifted into the air, the shackles were pulled in different directions. Shortly she was stretched out face down, hanging freely in the air a few feet off the floor. He went behind the girl and swung her like a swing, his laughs drowned out by the girl’s agonizing screams. He next grabbed her thighs and pulled her back into his crotch, smiling at having rightly estimated the height he wanted.

Wormtail quickly stripped off his pants and went about satisfying his sadistic cravings. The girl soon passed out, her head falling forward in unconsciousness. For many long minutes the nasty, disgusting creature brutalized the young girl’s virgin flesh.

After he finished his evil, twisted deed, he threw a bucket of cold water across the girl. He then went about shaving and pulling out hair from every part of her body, before soaping her up and cleaning her as his master demanded.

Wormtail lowered her again to the floor and, after unshackling her, dragged her lifeless form into an adjoining empty and windowless room. Through all the rough handling, she remained unconscious. This his master would not want. Screams of terror were the entrée his master relished before beginning a feast. It added zest and allure to his meal. The ugly wizard walked over to the girl and began kicking at her. Finally she began returning to consciousness, at which point he hurriedly left the room.

“Master!” Wormtail exclaimed, as he entered into a dark room, lit only by a dying fire in an old stone fireplace. “Master, your meal awaits you - - - a particularly nice piece of meat. Firm and fresh, just as you like it.”

“You serve me well,” came a hissing voice from the floor.

Wormtail looked down and watched the large sluggish creature raise itself. The massive, ugly, snake-like head was attached to a huge sluggish body, over ten feet long. It oozed smelly, sticky slime constantly. As the creature moved, it looked to be slithering along as a large snake would, moving much quicker than one would believe possible at first sight.

He hurriedly reopened the door. His master wiggled heavily along behind him. After opening the last door, Wormtail stood to one side, allowing his master to slither past him. The terrified girl screamed out horribly upon seeing the creature and ran to a corner where she fell against the wall, clinching her knees tightly to her chest with her hands.

“Yes!” the snake-like creature hissed, raising its snake-like head off the floor, after having moved up within inches of the girl. Its forked tongue flicked out, lapping at the young, moist flesh. “A most delicate piece of meat.”

The large beast struck out viciously, closing its mouth around the girl’s lower leg, jerking her savagely out of the corner. It then began flailing the girl about, beating her defenseless body against the walls and floor. Playing with her as a cat would a mouse.

The creature continued its sadistic game, relishing the few remaining screams and whimperings of its upcoming meal. When her head was sufficiently blooded, the great snake slithered around and closed its large mouth over the girl’s head. Slowly it unhinged its massive jaws and began swallowing the unconscious girl.

Wormtail watched in amazement. After the meal was swallowed down to about its waist, the creature constricted its powerful muscles and held fast. His master next regurgitated the suffocated girl completely, lapping at the acidic digestive juices already softening the flesh. After waiting long minutes, it began the process again, squirming and thrashing about until the girl’s feet disappeared into its gullet.

“I trust you enjoyed your meal, Master?” Wormtail asked; his hands clasped at his chest, forever in wonder, marveling at what he’d witnessed numerous times these last months. But more so, he was glad he no longer had to chop the flesh up into small, bite-morsels for the slimy snake, a most disgusting task. Over these last weeks, his master had morphed into a sufficiently sized creature no longer requiring such food preparation. Of that, he was thankful. But it also gave him much more free time for his own twisted amusement.

“Tomorrow you will bring me two smaller ones,” the master ordered, turning its head toward his wicked servant.

“Yes, of course,” Wormtail replied, relishing the thought of having two more and even younger girls to torture.

“What have you heard from Lucius?” the master asked.

“He has not yet sent a message, master. He should have completed his task by now. I expect good news shortly,” he anxiously replied, worried the ugly creature might sense his anxiety.

In truth, Wormtail was extremely apprehensive over not hearing from Lucius Malfoy, as he had expected. It was now two days after the task was to have been completed. Malfoy had always been punctual. Something wasn’t right. This worried Wormtail considerably, and he did his best to keep his worry from his master. He would wait, he decided. What else could he do?

“He must complete his task now,” the snake-like beast hissed out. “I will soon be ready to return. The way must be made clear.”

“Yes, yes, of course, master!” Wormtail exclaimed, opening the door for the creature. But Pettigrew had no time to worry about Malfoy. He only had time to worry about the present, which required finding two young muggles for his master’s next meal.


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


It was early morning at the Hall of Justice. Lord Chief Justice Daniel Webster stood at the foot of his bed. He had his large hands about the waist of a beautiful brown-haired witch who was being taken from behind. Her head was lowered to the bed, her knees on the bed’s edge and her butt banging into her master’s crotch.

After some minutes, the two bodies quaked in climax. He held the girl firmly to him until he was completely spent.

“Hermione, you’re the finest fuck I’ve ever had,” he said, breathing deeply. “How do you feel?”

“Never better,” she said, rolling onto her side and smiling up at the large man. “Want to hit the shower before breakfast?”

“Yeah! I’ll race you,” he said, turning and running toward the large bathroom.

“That’s not fair!” she screamed, as she entered the shower room behind him. “You didn’t even let me get off the bed!”

Webster reached out and pulled the girl to him. They began kissing, breaking free just long enough to turn on a showerhead. He then pulled her into the spray with him where they continued kissing wildly, passionately.

Fifteen minutes later the two found Sarah and Martha sitting at a table outside the third-floor residence. A large buffet had been laid out with a wide variety of breakfast foods.

“Good morning!” Webster called out.

The two girls turned their heads to smile knowingly at the two walking towards them.

“Good morning!” they exclaimed in unison.

“Captain Stran just left, Your Lordship. She wanted us to tell you Minister of Magic Weasley and Minister Bones will be coming to see you early this morning,” Sarah informed him.

“Great!” Webster replied. He made his way straight to the hot pot of coffee and quickly filled a mug. “I guess we’d better get this breakfast out of the way then. What ya think?”

The girls nodded their heads and grinned at the large, handsome man. Webster picked up a plate and heaped it to overflowing with eggs, bacon, sausage and crumpets.

“Your Lordship!” Hermione exclaimed, arching her eyebrows. “You don’t have to heap up your plate like that. You can always come back for seconds.”

“I plan on it,” he replied, smiling broadly at the young witch.

They all laughed out at the large man. He wasn’t joking with them, though. He really did plan on seconds and possibly even thirds.

“I’ve never seen anyone eat as much as you do,” Hermione said, almost in a scolding manner.

“I’m a big, growing boy, Hermione,” he replied, with a laugh. “I’ve just burnt up a lot of energy, as you well know, and I need to recharge my battery - - - that’s all. You wouldn’t want to see me get downright poorly, would you? I mean I’d no longer be able to do what we were just doing.” He arched his eyebrows, grinned devilishly and winked at his little brown-haired witch.

Hermione’s eyes opened wide. “Here!” she exclaimed with a grin. “You can have some of mine, too! Let’s keep that battery charged!”

They both hilariously laughed at her retort. Sarah and Martha had no idea what they were talking about. “What’s a battery?” they wondered.

After their breakfast, the four went down to the library and shortly Ministers Weasley and Bones were escorted to them.

“Ministers!” Webster exclaimed, as they entered the library. “It’s an honor to have you drop by.”

“Thank you, Your Lordship!” replied the two men in unison.

“Arthur,” Webster began, reaching out to shake the man’s hand, “We are all very proud over your appointment. Professor Dumbledore and Hermione assured me a better man couldn’t have been chosen for the job.”

“Thank you, Your Lordship. You are most kind,” the new Interim Minister of Magic replied.

“Please, take a seat,” he said, pointing to one of the large tables within the library. “We could do with some of that iced tea!”

No sooner than the Chief Justice spoke the words a large tray appeared on the table before them.

“Have either of you tried tea the way we drink it back in Texas?” Webster asked.

The two men looked down at the large pitcher and six large glasses of ice. Webster reached down and began filling the glasses, handing one to each of the ministers and to the young witches before filling his own glass.

“This is really great stuff!” exclaimed Arthur Weasley, after taking several swigs.

Bones nodded his head in agreement. “Yeah, not bad at all. I’ve never had it this way.”

The justice turned back to face Weasley. “So you were shocked over your selection?”

“It was totally unexpected, Your Lordship. On the other hand, I never was close to Cornelius Fudge. And I believe that was a comforting thought to those who voted for me. It really is as simple as that,” he humbly replied.

The justice raised a hand, as if to halt the conversation. “Please, do me a favor. Please call me Dan, both of you. I would be much more comfortable. Is that all right?” Webster asked, looking at each of the men.

“Yes, of course. Whatever you wish - - - Dan?” Weasley hesitantly said.

Webster nodded and smiled. “Thank you. We’ve too much on our plates to worry about foolish formalities.”

“I agree,” replied Weasley in kind, exchanging a large grin with the man.

“Has anything more been found out about Fudge’s whereabouts?” Webster asked.

“Not a thing,” replied Minister Bones. “We expect, sooner or later, someone will report having seen the man. But it’s clear Fudge had been having many meetings with Malfoy. Just yesterday an under-minister came forward, saying he’d saw Malfoy enter Fudge’s office not two hours before the attempt was made on your life. The visit was much before Ministry business hours and is very suspicious, in and of itself.”

“I see,” Webster thoughtfully replied.

“Dan, Professor Dumbledore showed us your decree yesterday. You’ve given him full authority to begin actions against the Dark Lords?” Weasley asked.

“Absolutely. From what little I know, I believe it should have been done twenty years ago,” Webster replied.

“Hear, hear!” exclaimed Bones. “We just talked about that yesterday with Professor Dumbledore. It’s long overdue.”

“Has Professor Dumbledore taken you to see our young witches and wizards at work?” Webster asked.

“Not yet, but we’re anxious to get around to it. I regret not being more involved,” admitted Weasley. “After all, I have three sons who are on your team.”

“You must rightfully be very proud of those boys, Arthur,” Webster said, smiling largely at the man.

Arthur Weasley smiled a smile as wide as his face. “I am very proud of them. I can’t wait to see them.”

The men went on discussing what they expected Professor Dumbledore’s team to accomplish, in the near and long term. They then talked at length about the court and its pressing caseload.


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


Professor Dumbledore was met at the door to the judge’s chamber when he arrived at the Hall of Justice. Captain Stran told the professor she had twelve young witches and wizards for him to interview who she had personally chosen for Remus Lupin’s Coeus team.

“They’ve all lost family members to the Death Eaters, Professor. All are recent graduates of three different schools of magic, and we have character references from at least four different sources on each,” she told him. “I have them waiting in one of our security rooms in the basement. Do you wish to interview any today or should I have them return another day?”

“No, Deborah. Thank you. You’ve completed your assignment much faster than I’d expected. I must interview them today. It’s just too important to put off. We need their help, critically,” the old wizard told the girl, marveling at how quickly she had completed the task. “Let me pay our Chief Justice a quick visit and I’ll begin. I also wish you to be present during my interviews, if you’re able.”

“Yes, of course, Professor. I’ll be ready when you are. I won’t allow any to leave the Hall, until you’ve finished interviewing them,” she informed him.

The old headmaster nodded his head in thanks. “And where do you suggest we conduct the interviews, Deborah?” Professor Dumbledore asked.

“We could use the conference room in the basement, if you wish?” she replied.

The old wizard nodded his head in agreement. “Very well, let’s do just that.”

She then directed the professor to the library. He found the Chief Justice engaged in conversation with Minister Weasley, Minister Bones, Hermione and the two newest members of the court: Sarah and Martha.

“Professor! Good to see you’ve made it,” Webster exclaimed, quickly getting to his feet and shaking the hand of the old wizard as he approached the table. The two ministers came to their feet and greeted the grand sorcerer as well.

“I’m so glad to see our new Minister of Magic and our respected Minister of the Department of Investigations have come to spend some time with you, Your Lordship,” Professor Dumbledore said in a formal way, smiling at the men.

“We’ve been sitting here strategizing, Professor, while you’ve been doing all the work,” Webster said.

The old professor placed his hand on Weasley’s shoulder and leaned into him. “If you should get the chance today, Arthur, I’m sure your sons would appreciate a quick visit from their dad. They’re so proud of your appointment. It was such an honor to take them the news. I must say we had quite a celebration last night,” the old wizard told them with a laugh.

Arthur Weasley nodded his head and smiled grandly at that. “I had just made mention of how proud I am of them to the Chief Justice.”

Hermione noticed the old wizard glanced towards the two girls after he caught her eyes. She leaned over the table and asked them to follow her to Sarah’s office.

As the girls got out of hearing range, she explained why it was necessary to leave the table. “We should leave them to talk alone for awhile. They have much to discuss in private.”

“Hermione, I need to get back to work on the docket. We’ve had so many cases withdrawn; I have to completely redo it. Would it be okay if I borrow Martha today to help me out?” Sarah asked.

“Yes, certainly. Time is flying by, isn’t it? Court will be in session before we know it,” Hermione replied.

The two girls walked to Sarah’s office and closed the door behind them. Hermione turned and walked back to the table where the wizards were still engaged in conversation. Professor Dumbledore nodded and smiled at Hermione as she approached.

“Thank you, Hermione,” he said, looking up at the beautiful young girl. “We must be most careful who’s around when we discuss the most sensitive topics. Not in anyway meaning Sarah or Martha are not to be trusted, of course,” he said.

“Yes, Professor,” Hermione said. “I understand.”

The old professor then turned back to the three men with a look of urgency about him. “When I arrived this morning, Captain Stran informed me she had twelve young witches and wizards waiting to be interviewed in the basement for Remus Lupin’s special team. It’s of such great importance to get them trained and in the field, I must beg you to excuse me so I can get right to it,” Dumbledore explained.

“Of course, Albus,” replied Webster, coming to his feet. “If you don’t need Hermione to help you, maybe she would be willing to take us to Falcon’s Lair. I’m sure Arthur would love to see his boys.”

“That would be great! Would you do that, Hermione?” the old professor asked.

Arthur Weasley almost shouted out.

“Yes, certainly. Whenever you’re ready,” she replied.

Professor Dumbledore excused himself and hurried off to the basement to find Captain Stran. Webster asked Hermione to delay their trip to Falcon’s Lair until after noon. He had much to still discuss with the two ministers.


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


Captain Stran met Professor Dumbledore as he stepped out of a lift in the basement.

“This way, Professor,” she directed. “I’ve prepared the conference room.” She turned and walked down a long hall, stopping to open the door to a fairly large conference and training room.

“Yes. This will be fine, Deborah. Do you have the parchments on each?” he asked.

“Yes, sir. They’re on the table there. Would you like to look them over first?” she asked.

“Please, yes. Can you sit with me and give me your impressions?” Dumbledore asked, as he walked around and took a chair. He noticed Stran walk over to a tea service, which had appeared on a countertop along the wall. “Yes, wonderful! I could use a spot of tea. Please remind me to offer some to our young candidates as they come in.”

Deborah nodded her head in reply. “The first candidate on top, Professor, attended school with me at Montfort. Her parents were both killed by Death Eaters when we were in our fifth year of school. Grace was top in our class in both Charms and Defense Against the Dark Arts. She’s extremely gifted.”

“Very well, let’s begin with Grace. One other thing I wish done, Deborah. After we finish interviewing each candidate, I would like you to take him or her to another room, segregated from those who have yet to be interviewed,” he instructed.

“I already have a room prepared, Professor,” she replied.

“Outstanding! Then let’s get started. What do you say?” the old wizard asked with a smile.

Captain Stran returned his smile and left the room. Within a minute she returned with a tall, strikingly beautiful girl with hair so black it was almost blue. The old wizard stood and beckoned her over to take a seat at the table across from him, as Captain Stran made the introductions between them.

“Grace, I see you lost your parents when you were fifteen. Whom have you been living with?” Dumbledore asked.

“I’ve lived with my paternal grandmother since then, Professor. She owns a small herbarium, and we live on the second floor above her shop in London. You might know of it, Professor? White’s Herbarium?” she asked.

The old wizard almost jumped out of his chair. He looked back down at the parchments in his hand to check the name. “You are Veronica’s granddaughter?” Dumbledore asked.

“Yes, sir. She speaks highly of you, Professor. She says she’s known you for some years,” the girl replied.

“Yes, my, my! Yes, indeed! Over forty, maybe fifty years, it’s been. I knew your father and mother very well, too. Oh, yes, I’ve missed them so very much. I remember the very day Robert and Maxine lost their lives. A dreadful thing it was,” he said, small tears of regret gathered in his eyes at the remembrance. “We’ve much to talk about Grace. I have many wonderful memories of your family I’d like to share with you. Yes, someday soon we must find the time.” The old wizard smiled at the girl and reached across the table to lightly pat her hand.

“I know my father and mother would be here to help you if they were alive, Professor. I hope you’ll allow me to carry on for them?” she asked, tears began streaming down her cheeks. She reached up and rubbed them away with the back of her hands.

“Yes, Grace, certainly. I am honored you’ve come to help us. But I hope you’ve not left your grandmother shorthanded?” he asked.

“No, sir. After Deborah came to see me and said you were looking for some help, my grandmother insisted I come as quickly as possible. If she was ten years younger, I’m sure you would have to bar the doors to keep her away,” the girl said with a grin, thinking about her quick-tempered grandmother.

The old professor laughed out at what she said. He had no reason to doubt a word. “I know Veronica very well and know that to be the truth. Your grandmother reminds me of our Professor Sprout at Hogwarts. An encyclopedic knowledge of plants, they both have. There just might come a time I may need to call upon her,” he admitted.

“She would love that, Professor,” she said.

The old headmaster came to his feet and looked up at the Captain of the Guard. “Deborah! Let’s get Grace down to the room you’ve prepared,” the old wizard ordered. He then looked back down at the beautiful young witch. “Deborah and I have a long day ahead of us with these other eleven interviews. I hope you can remain with us. Later this afternoon, I would like to take you to meet our first team members and instructors.”

“You accept me then, Professor?” the girl nervously asked, as she got out of her chair.

“Yes, absolutely!” he exclaimed. The old wizard got out of his chair and walked around the table to hug the tall girl. “Your parents would be so proud!”

Tears of joy were streaming down her face as Captain Stran led her from the room. Before Professor Dumbledore lifted the next parchment off the stack, he paused a few minutes to reflect on the lives of Robert and Maxine White. “I would expect you two are very proud of Grace,” he whispered out to unseen ghosts.

Professor Dumbledore and Captain Stran went about interviewing each of the remaining eleven. The old wizard was extremely pleased with the lot. He knew the families of a number of them and did not doubt the loyalty they would show to the Chief Justice and their investigative team members. Most importantly though, he sensed their intentions were true, their loyalties well placed and their dedication to labor for a better life unquestionable. It was late afternoon when they finished the undertaking and Dumbledore had Stran bring all of them back down to the conference room.

After all were seated, the old wizard walked around to stand at the head of the long conference table. “Captain Stran has already told you a little of what you will soon be expected to do. Before we leave the Hall of Justice, I wish to explain your duties a small bit further. From this moment forward, each of you is a member of the Hall of Justice’s Department of Special Investigations. You will live and train at a location we have named Falcon’s Lair. For the next several weeks, you will have little or no family time or contacts. There can be no exceptions to this. As you are aware, we have entered a very perilous period of time. Lord Voldemort and his associates have commenced a strategy to take over both the Ministry of Magic and the Hall of Justice. Lord Voldemort desires to reign over both the magical and non-magical world as Supreme Lord. Our sole purpose is to stop that from happening by initially disrupting his supporters. Your specific mission, initially, will be in a supportive role to our action group, codenamed Athena. In that role you will gather intelligence and other vital information in support of that mission. Your group is codenamed Coeus. Are there any questions?” Dumbledore asked the attentive group.

The young witches and wizards remained silent, although a number of them exchanged glances and a few nodded heads. Dumbledore then led the group to one of the far lifts, which terminated within the large anteroom. After several trips using the lift, he gathered them at the Hogwarts arch. Half the group joined hands with him as he used the portkey to transport them to the conference room. Captain Stran soon followed with the rest.

They then immediately used the portkey to Falcon’s Lair and were all soon within the deep cavern. The members of Athena stopped their activities when they noticed the arrivals, and Professor Priest had them gather at the tables. Soon Professor Dumbledore had introduced them all around and walked to the head table where he commanded all to be seated.

“For the benefit of our newest members, Sirius and Remus would you two please stand up again,” Dumbledore began. “Sirius Black is in charge of Athena. Remus Lupin is in charge of Coeus, which is the intelligence-gathering group you will initially be assigned to. For reasons of security, you will receive your training separately from Athena. Thank you gentlemen, you may take your seats,” Dumbledore stated, nodding at the two team leaders.

The old professor then stood behind Professor Priest and Minister Grime and introduced them before going on to introduce Bruja Calderon and the others in more detail.

As the old wizard was finishing his introductions, Chief Justice Webster, Hermione, Ministers Weasley and Bones appeared next to the portkey. The members all immediately stood up at their tables.

Ron, Fred and George took off at a run to their dad. He greeted the trio with open arms and freely accepted their good-natured teasing. Minister Bones hesitated to approach the tables at first when he noticed Sirius Black and Remus Lupin amongst those standing to welcome them. But walked over to shake their hands after he noticed the warm greeting the Chief Justice gave them.

“Witches and wizards, please take your seats. I’m honored to introduce, first of all, our newly appointed Minister of Magic Arthur Weasley,” he shouted out. A around of applause went out around the table, which quieted immediately once he raised his hands. “Joining Minister of Magic Weasley is the head of the Ministry’s Department of Investigations, Jeremiah Bones. And last, but certainly not least, is our newly seated Lord Chief Justice, Daniel Webster and Executive Assistant, Hermione Granger.”

Another round of applause went out. “Would either of you gentlemen like to say a few words?” the old wizard asked, looking from the Weasley to Webster. Webster held out his hand and motioned Weasley to say a few words first.

“Thank you, Professor. Minister Bones and I are honored to be here today to meet everyone. I realize, of course, you are all employees of the Hall of Justice, and, as such, work for our esteemed Lord Chief Justice. But your work is critically important to us all, including our non-magical brethren. In fact, no single group within our magical world is as well placed and trained to contend with the dangers facing us all, as you are. Believe this, the Ministry of Magic fully supports and stands behind your efforts and will assist you in every way we can,” Weasley stated, before sitting down. His short speech again brought the small group to their feet. The Weasley trio gave their dad raucous applause before taking their seats.

Chief Justice Webster then stood. “Thank you, Minister Weasley, for supporting the tremendously important mandate of Professor Dumbledore and his team. I was born and raised in Texas, in the United States. In the state’s early history and even today, we have a group of lawmen, which you young folks seated here before us remind me of. They are called Rangers, Texas Rangers. On many occasions, over their proud history, only one Ranger was sent out to face tremendous odds and great peril. They’ve always been very successful in completing their assignments and are among the most respected law enforcement agencies in the non-magical world. Now, as I am not a wizard and as I did not even know your magical world even existed until just a few days ago, I may not fully know or appreciate the dangers we now face. But, as Minister Weasley just said on behalf of the Ministry of Magic, I, too, give you the absolute backing and blessings of the Hall of Justice. Good luck to you all and may God speed!”

Again everyone jumped to his or her feet. Professor Dumbledore noted the beaming pride displayed on the faces around the table. The old professor then stood and reiterated the responsibilities of the instructors and of the heads of each investigative team for the benefit of the newest members.

After a short while, Professor Dumbledore asked the Ministers, the Chief Justice and Hermione to join him at Hogwarts for their evening meal.

They arrived at Hogwarts after the students had already begun their meal. The students rose when they again noticed the Chief Justice enter. When Ginny Weasley noticed her dad enter behind Professor Dumbledore, she ran to him.

“Dad!” she screamed out, running into his arms. They hugged and whispered to each other for a short time. She then led him back to the Gryffindor table where he, Minister Bones and Hermione found seats.

Professor Dumbledore and Chief Justice Webster took their seats and everyone soon got back to their meal.

“Professor?” Webster whispered. “I see one of your tables has fewer students than the last time I was here?”

“Yes. Nearly thirty percent have been removed from that particular house here at the school. Some of the families have too close of ties with a number of the dark lords, I’m afraid. However, I do expect some to return after we’ve gone about eliminating those who have been threatening them,” Dumbledore told the Chief Justice.

After the meal was over, Minister Weasley and Bones used the portkey within Professor Dumbledore’s office to return to the Ministry. Before that happened, the old wizard did make time to question Minister Bones about Drago Cetus. Bones told him he knew the wizard was involved in banking but didn’t know anything else about him. He assured the professor he would look into Ministry records concerning the man and forward the information to Bartholomew Grime as soon as possible.

Chief Justice Webster and Hermione remained behind. Professor Dumbledore told them what they were planning to do at the Cetus estate. Webster asked the professor to keep him well apprised. He and Hermione then returned to the Hall of Justice.

Professor Dumbledore then returned to Falcon’s Lair where he had a short chat with Professor Priest.

“Drucila, I’m very confident we’ve found twelve very good young witches and wizards for Coeus. However, I must ask you to do me a favor. First thing in the morning, I need you to give each a very thorough physical examination. I feel very positive none will have the mark of the evil ones upon their bodies, but we must be absolutely certain. Can you do that for me?” Dumbledore asked.

“Yes, of course, Albus. If any bear the mark, I’ll find it; I assure you of that. And I agree, it must be done,” the old witch said, nodding her head and squinting her eyes at the old wizard.

Dumbledore soon excused himself and returned to Hogwarts. The physical, mental and emotional intensity of the last few days had caught up with the old man. He fell into his bed, totally exhausted and went fast asleep.


* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


At Falcon’s Lair, Ron Weasley was returning to his room when he noticed one of the new witches walking along the third floor landing trying to open doors.

“Can I help you?” he asked the girl.

“I’m trying to find an empty bedroom. Are they all taken?” she asked, looking somewhat frustrated.

“No, I don’t think so. Come with me, I think there’s one down near the end next to mine. I took the one at the very end here on the third level, thinking it would be quieter,” he said, then instantly raised his hands in exasperation. “Well, that’s not entirely true. It was mainly to stay away from my two prankster brothers.” He tried the door next to his room and it opened freely.

“Thank you,” she said, looking into the room. “This will do nicely.”

Ron looked into the girl’s eyes and really saw her for the first time. She was beautiful. In fact, he nearly melted right on the spot and suddenly blushed when he realized she perceived his thought.

“Yeah, they’re really nice rooms!” he sputtered out, quickly looking past her into the room.

“My name’s Grace White,” she said, holding out her hand.

“Ron Weasley,” he said, taking her hand in his and weakly shaking it. A warm, amorous feeling passed through him. It was like nothing he had ever felt before. He noticed a reaction in the girl’s eyes, too. “Yeah, good to meet you. Want me to show you the room?”

“Okay,” she said, stepping through the door first and turning back to face him, after Ron stepped inside.

“The beds are great,” he excitedly began, pointing nervously, trying to avoid her eyes. “They’re as big as the ones we have at Hogwarts. And through that door’s the bathroom. They’re great, too. And we each have a desk, book shelves, chest of drawers and a big closet.”

“Hogwarts? You attended Hogwarts?” she asked.

“Yeah. My whole family has, like forever,” he replied, shyly glancing back into her face.

“I attended Montfort. It’s a small school in London,” she told him, unable to hide the knowing smile on hers.

“Yeah, I’ve heard of it. Don’t you live at home when you go to that school? Seems like I heard no one actually lives at the school,” Ron nervously added, trying to remember what he was once told about the small institution.

“That’s right. It’s actually just inside London. Many families who live close by send their children there. After classes we returned home everyday. Just like a muggle school,” she explained. Her face took on a more serious look, which was forced. Grace found herself captivated by the young wizards smile and mannerisms. And there was an innocence about him she found appealing.

Ron was still in a rattled state and suddenly realized he was too uncomfortable to handle it anymore. “Well, okay then. I’ll leave you to it. It was nice meeting you. I guess I’ll see you around. If you need anything, I’m just next-door. Come over anytime you like,” he said, turning to leave.

“Thanks, Ron!” she said, watching the tall, handsome redheaded wizard close her door.

The girl patted her chest and smiled. “What luck,” she thought. “Living next to a hunk like that. I can’t believe it. I wonder how old he is.” She moved quickly to the window to catch another glimpse of him but heard his door open and shut before she could make it.

Ron took a long shower and pulled on a pair of old muggle-made sweatpants. They had become one of his favorite articles of clothing, given to him as a present by his older brother Bill. For sometime he had taken to wearing them to sleep in. As much as he really would have liked to sleep totally in the nude, he could never trust what antics Fred and George might pull, leaving him bare for all the world to see.

As he lay back on his bed, he thought of the beautiful black-haired witch possibly even then lying on her bed not fifteen feet away. Trying to picture what she might be wearing at that very moment gave him quite a rise. Closing his eyes, he reached down and squeezed his semi-rigid penis lying atop his left thigh. Suddenly a light knock sounded at his door.

“Damn, twins!” he hissed under his breath. “I wish they would leave me the fuck alone!” He hurried to the door and flung it open.

There before him was Grace White. She had changed into muggle shorts and a halter-top, and the sight of her took him from semi-rigid to nail-driving hard. The girl smiled at his reaction and looking down she couldn’t begin to miss the huge bulge she saw straining against the young wizards sweatpants.

“Sorry!” she blurted out. “Was I interrupting something?”

“No, no! I thought it might have been someone else, that’s all,” Ron said, embarrassed that she had noticed his aroused state.

“Can we talk a bit?” the girl asked, again quickly glancing back down to sneak another peek at his big protrusion.

“Yeah, of course, come in,” Ron said, turning and holding the door open for her.

“I can come back later, if you’re expecting a guest,” she said coyly. She then shyly looked around the room, but Ron noticed her eyes kept returning for quick glances at his cock. His embarrassment left him, as her attempts to catch a better view of it greatly aroused him.

“No, don’t go. I just thought it might have been my brothers up to no good. Please, have a seat,” Ron said.

The girl walked over, pulled the chair out from under the desk, turned it around facing the bed and sat down. Ron had seen very few real live girls in muggle clothing such as she was wearing. At least as close up as she was. Her legs were stunning, long and perfectly formed. She had the most beautiful, tight butt he had ever seen, too. But what caught his eyes most were the large breasts squeezed into her tight halter-top. She obviously wasn’t wearing a bra, as Ron could make out her hard nipples pressing against the thin fabric. The girl’s hair was raven black. Her eyes were the color of dark coffee, large and mesmerizing.

“Would you like something to drink?” Ron asked, wishing he had something else to offer her but couldn’t for the life of him know what that something might be.

“No, thanks, I’m fine,” she said, looking back at him.

Ron slowly made his way to the bed. He was about to sit down but noticed her eyes were again looking at his crotch. Suddenly he realized he didn’t have on a shirt either. Ron quickly threw his arms across his chest in a very feeble attempt to cover up.

“I’m sorry,” he said, standing all but inches from her. “I wasn’t really expecting anyone. I don’t have a shirt on. Is that okay?” He looked down at her, and she suddenly realized he had been watching her. She blushed and raised her eyes to his, embarrassed at what he had caught her doing.

“Oh, no. It’s okay. I apologize. I was staring at your - - - I mean I was looking at - - -,” she blushed even deeper and hastily turned her head away in embarrassment. “Sorry!” She couldn’t help but let go a nervous giggle.

“No, that’s okay. I’ve never had a girl look at me that way before. It was my first time. It’s just I had been thinking about you, I mean, well when I saw you dressed like that - - -,” Ron quickly realized he was only making matters worse, and he abruptly stammered to a halt.

They both laughed out at their mutual embarrassment.

“I’m sorry, Ron. I’ve never seen one before. Not like that, I mean. I’ve seen pictures in books but they were not sticking out. I’m sorry for staring,” she said, instantly shaking her head in disbelief that she had told him that. Again she looked away, giggling like a little girl and bringing a fist up to her mouth to stop herself before she was totally humiliated.

The moment was uncomfortable for both of them. Ron couldn’t help but quickly attempt to mitigate their shared embarrassment. “No, that’s okay. I guess I understand,” he said. But Ron couldn’t help himself. He was unexpectedly and uncontrollably aroused by what she’d just said. “You’ve never seen one before?” he automatically asked, without thinking. His cock twitched like a bullfrog leaping off a lily pad. His stomach felt like a million butterflies were trying to take flight, leaving a tingling in his loins the likes of which he’d never experienced.

“No,” she shyly admitted, moving her eyes to quickly scan his crotch again but just as quickly looked away.

Ron gulped and continued with the brashest thing he’d ever uttered. “Would you like to see mine?” he asked, again not believing what had just come out of his mouth. He had never had the courage to say such a thing to a girl in his life. Just as quickly, he realized she might haul off and slap the shit out of him.

Grace shook her head and let out another schoolgirl giggle. “I don’t know. Maybe we shouldn’t. We’ve just met and all. I don’t even know you,” she said, containing her giggles but unable to stop herself from gawking at the large bulge.

“What’s there to know?” Ron asked. “Let me have your hand!” He then raised his right hand out in front of him and waited. He noticed she again looked at the protruding organ before looking back up to his face.

Grace again shook her head, closed her eyes and chuckled. Much to his astonishment, she slowly but hesitantly put her left hand in his. Ron then brought her hand to the fabric-hidden appendage.

Grace slowly closed two fingers and her thumb around it. “It’s so hard and thick!” she exclaimed, sucking air.

Totally irrational, driven past the point of no return, Ron hooked his thumbs into the waistline of his sweatpants and pulled them down.

“Oh!” she shouted out, jumping back fearfully, almost flinging herself out of the chair. “It’s moving around!”

Ron laughed hysterically at the girl’s reaction. “It’s not going to bite you,” he laughed. He then reached back out and again she timidly placed her hand in his. Ron again brought her hand to his blood-engorged beast and helped her wrap her fingers around it.

Grace sat rigidly in her chair. Her eyes became as big as saucers. “It’s so big and pink, and it’s hot. Why’s this different looking,” she said, pointing at the tip.

“That’s the head. See, the skin is real smooth,” he told her. She brought a hand up and ran her fingers over it.

“It is!” she said, amazed at it’s rubbery smoothness. “Oh!” she cried out, jerking her hand back and looking at her fingers. “What’s this?”

Ron noticed the clear, glistening fluid on her fingertips. “That’s what you call precum. It’s the fluid that first appears when a guy gets really aroused.”

“It’s sticky,” she observed, lifting it up closely to her nose to smell of it. “It smell’s different, too.”

He courageously took his next big plunge into even deeper water. “I hate being the only naked person in here,” Ron said, reaching down and pulling his sweatpants the rest of the way off.

The girl stood up. Ron noticed for the first time she was as tall as he was. At first, he thought she was going to make a quick run for the door. Grace actually did turn around toward the door, considering doing just that, but something made her stop.

“How did I ever get into this?” she thought to herself. She turned around and looked up into Ron’s eyes. That did it. There was no going back now. There was something special about this handsome young wizard she’d never experienced before in her life.

She nervously smiled at him and was captivated by his smile, his glistening eyes and that thing bobbing around crazily between his legs. The very thought of removing her clothes set her heart to racing.

Ron couldn’t believe his luck, meeting the girl just minutes before and now the possibility she might even peel off her clothes in his room almost as quick. That had to be some kind of record, he thought.

As she continued looking into his face, he lowered his eyes to take in her form. Her body was unbelievable. Ron walked up to her and rubbed a hand gently up and down her arm.

Grace shuddered from his touch, letting him approach and peck her gently on the cheek. She turned her nose into his hair and kissed him back along his.

Ron lightly lowered his hands to her bare waist and gently squeezed his fingers into her flesh. Again, the girl responded to his touch. He then bravely leaned into her and kissed her lips softly. She slightly opened her mouth, letting his tongue play along her virgin lips. Again she shivered at the touch.

He let his hands slide slowly down to her hips, as they continued kissing hungrily, sensually. Grace pushed her hips into his, feeling his hard cock move against her. Ron next moved his hands to the round, tight cheeks of her ass, rubbing, squeezing and palming the flesh.

The young witch, pulled her lips from his and gasped for air. She wrapped her arms around her young stud and squeezed him to her, possessively.

“Wait!” she panted. “Wait!”

Ron removed his hands from her. She backed away, looking into his eyes.

Grace grasped the fabric of her halter-top and pulled it over her head. Her heavy, perfectly formed breasts swung free. Ron’s eyes fixed on the dark pink areola. The erect reddish nipples were as big around as the end of his little finger. After hooking her hands into her shorts, Grace bent over as she slid them down her legs. As she kicked them free, he looked down at the black bushy mound and could only hope she would invite him to the treat it hid. Grace’s legs turned rubbery and unsteady. She quickly sat down in the chair again and reached out timidly for his hard cock.

Ron would have none of that. He took her raised hand and gently pulled her to the bed. As she fell back, he flopped a knee down into the mattress on either side of her. Ron then leaned forward and began kissing his raven-haired beauty once again.

Grace squirmed under him, lifting her hands to his chest and back. Ron brought his right hand up to her breast. The young witch gasped out, threw her head back and gave voice to any number of short ‘uuhs’ and ‘aahs’. Ron squeezed and lifted her left breast to his mouth, sucking on the virgin areola and nibbling gently on the protruding nipple. She shuddered at the sensation.

He then pushed his feet between her legs. Grace knew what was coming next. And it wasn’t going to be the lifeless, cold piece of plastic she’d used so many times in the past. She pulled him to her, urging him on. The impatient young lover was spreading her legs for the first time. They soon managed to experience something they’d each only dreamed about before. Within minutes, they were both gasping for air.

“That was amazing, Ron. I never knew it was supposed to be that good,” she said, turning onto her side to face him.

“Me, too. That was the first time a girl ever did that for me. It was great,” he said, rolling her way. She reached out and pulled his head to hers and kissed his cheek. Ron threw his arm behind her back, pulling her closer to him. They closed their eyes and soon drifted off to sleep.