Novel-Length Fic: A Year of Worry and Hope
Title: A Year of Worry and Hope
Word Count: ~73,000 + and counting; 4951 for chapter five
Rating: PG-13 (I *think* it stays PG-13 all the way through the story.)
Summary: Essentially, the events of "Deathly Hallows" from Percy Weasley's and Audrey Mitchell's points of view, including frequent cameos by Fred and George Weasley, and the Longbottoms, as well as other canon characters.
Chapter 1: When Percy Met Audrey
Chapter 2: Going Out
Chapter 3: Weasley Wizard Wheezes
Chapter 3.5: Seeing Is Believing
Chapter 4: Muggle Weekend
CHAPTER 5:
Percy Apparated back to his flat and stood there, staring around at nothing. He eventually let his briefcase fall to the floor. He couldn't believe Audrey was gone! He started to pace back and forth across the small room. Where had she gone? Her friend Sara was in Switzerland. She might have gone there. Nanny lived somewhere in the States, another possibility. What about her parents? Were they going to be all right? Then there was Aunt Gussie. He didn't know where she lived, but she was in England. Maybe she helped Audrey leave the country?
But why would Audrey need to leave the country? She didn't assassinate the Minister. She was with him. Any hearing would immediately clear her. And how did they even know "a Muggleborn Conspiracy" had assassinated the Minister? Were there spells that would tell them that? Percy didn't know, but determined to find out.
Percy knew he couldn't continue to pace all night. What was he going to do? He wanted to talk to Audrey. He'd only known her for two months, but now he didn't know what to do without her. What did he do before he knew Audrey? He worked. When he thought about it, he didn't have any close friends. He had not told anybody he was going out with Audrey. There wasn't anyone to tell, since he had only seen his family once in two years.
If Bill or Charlie found themselves in this situation, they'd grab one of their mates and go have a few shots of Firewhisky. Percy didn't really care for Firewhisky, and another person was out of the question because there wasn't anybody, but maybe if he had a nice glass of Merlot? It hadn't even been forty-eight hours since he'd shared a bottle of Merlot with Audrey . . .
He went to rummage around in his pantry, and . . . success! There was a bottle of Merlot hiding in the back. Percy reached for a wine glass from the rack, but his hands were shaking so badly, he managed to knock the rack onto the floor, breaking every glass he owned. Bloody Hell! He waved his wand, angrily shouting, "Reparo!" The shards flew together in a rather interesting shape, but there wasn't a wine glass in sight. Percy swore again and kicked the "sculpture". It shattered rather spectacularly. Percy left the shards there, pointed his wand at the bottle to remove the cork, and nothing happened. Damn! It was a twist cap. Percy opened it angrily and took a long swig. He stomped across the broken glass, his hard-soled shoes making rather satisfying crunching noises, threw himself onto his couch, and continued to drink Merlot straight from the bottle.
***
Something was bothering Percy's eyes. He half opened one and realized it was sunlight. Huh? He tried to open both eyes, but that didn't work, so he slowly sat up. He felt like a puffskein had built a nest on his tongue. He half opened one eye again, and saw the empty Merlot bottle on the floor. He didn't remember too clearly how it got there. The last time he awoke on a sofa was far superior to this one. That thought made his heart ache. He finally managed to get both of his eyes open, and saw the clock. Merlin! He had to get ready for work.
Percy made it to the ministry by ten after nine, which was not too horrible, considering. He'd had to cast his first ever glamour charm to hide his puffy, bloodshot eyes, and thankfully managed not to vomit when he flushed himself into work. He planned to go straight to his office and stay there for as long as possible. He was in his corridor when he heard a high pitched voice behind him.
"Hem! Hem! Oh Percy!"
Percy's heart sank, but he turned around. "Yes, Dolores?"
Dolores Umbridge had continued down the corridor and was now standing right in front of him. "Percy, the Minister informed me you might be spared from your regular duties to help me with record keeping for the hearings that begin today."
This was the last thing Percy wanted to do right now. Would he even be able to stay awake during hearings? "Of course, Dolores."
"Very good, then. Come with me please." Percy moved to put his briefcase in his office, but Umbridge stopped him with a hand on his arm.
"Oh no, no. That won't do, Percy. We are already late. You may put your things away later, but you need to come with me right now."
Percy nodded and followed her. They took the lift to level ten, and Percy could not believe how cold it was. Before they left the lift, Umbridge said, "Expecto Patronum!" and a large cat came out of her wand. Although the Patronus made the temperature warmer, Percy shivered even more.
Down the hallway, he saw a number of people huddled together on benches with guards and dementors surrounding them. The dementors backed away from Umbridge's Patronus, but it only gave the people on the benches momentary relief. As soon as they had passed, the dementors returned to hovering around the benches.
Umbridge and Percy entered the courtroom, where the large man who had accosted Percy the previous day was already sitting on the dais in the front.
"Yaxley, the Minister freed Percy Weasley's schedule for record keeping for us, so we can get started."
"I, Dolores Jane Umbridge, Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic and Chair of the Muggleborn Registration Commission, call this hearing to order." Umbridge rifled through some papers in front of her. "The first to be called for questioning is Victoria Elizabeth Anderson, formerly of Magical Maintenance. Please bring in Mrs Anderson."
Percy saw a terrified woman brought in by a guard and flanked by two dementors. He thought this must be the hearing about the murder of the Minister, but as he took the minutes, he realized none of Umbridge's and Yaxley's questions had anything to do with a murder investigation, but with the suspect's being Muggleborn. Mrs Anderson was sent to Azkaban for no reason Percy could understand. He felt queasy. The next three "suspects" had not appeared for their hearings, and Yaxley issued warrants for their arrest. The next four "suspects" were sent to Azkaban. Then Umbridge called, "Audrey Anne Mitchell."
Percy's ears perked up, and he sat up straighter. Audrey hadn't been sitting on those benches with the dementors had she? But no, the guard came back in and shook his head. Yaxley issued a warrant for Audrey's arrest. Percy breathed a sigh of relief. If Yaxley was issuing a warrant for Audrey's arrest, then the Ministry did not have her in custody. There was at least a chance Audrey was safe and was not going to end up in Azkaban, simply for being Muggleborn.
Umbridge had lunch brought in for herself, Percy, and Yaxley. Percy didn't see how he could eat, since he was sickened by what was happening, but he surprised himself when he saw the food, and was suddenly famished. Of course, Percy realized he hadn't actually eaten anything at all (downing a bottle of Merlot did not count) since yesterday morning. No wonder he was hungry! He ate with gusto and with his mouth constantly full, couldn't participate in Umbridge's and Yaxley's disturbing conversation about how happy they were to finally be sorting out the "Mudblood problem".
When Percy arrived home after the afternoon hearing, he once again stared around his flat. He really needed to clean. He began to pick up various clutter. He felt better than he had the previous day, since at least Audrey wasn't in Azkaban, and the Ministry didn't know where she was. But what had happened to the Ministry? Where had he seen Yaxley before? Why this drastic change of policy? Was there really some kind of Muggleborn conspiracy? Percy didn't think so, and even if there were, he knew Audrey wasn't part of it.
Percy moved into his kitchen and saw all the shattered glass. He Vanished the lot. He had always been pants at repairing anything. As he systematically scourgified every surface in his kitchen, he thought, "Audrey Anne Mitchell". He hadn't known Audrey's middle name before. That was at least one good thing to come from these hearings, although the ten people now in Azkaban would probably take little comfort in it. Audrey Anne. It was a pretty name and rolled off his tongue so nicely. He said it out loud a few times. Audrey Anne, Audrey Anne, Audrey Anne. Audrey Anne Weasley. Blimey! Where had that come from? Well, he did have an engagement ring in his pocket. Audrey Anne Weasley. Percy smiled to himself as he went to clean his bathroom.
Percy finished his housecleaning by organizing the papers on his desk. He picked up the last stack that needed filing, and found beneath it a catalogue for Weasley Wizard Wheezes. Audrey had given it to him after he had Apparated out of the shop, so he could peruse his brother's products without being caught. He hadn't looked at it yet, but now he had nothing better to do, it might be entertaining.
Percy made himself a sandwich and sat at his table with the catalogue. He quickly skimmed the opening pages of trick wands, Skiving Snackboxes, various kinds of fireworks. He was not interested in any of that nonsense. Oh, here though. Percy read carefully about Patented Daydream Charms. They really sounded very interesting. Percy was quite sure he could daydream about Audrey perfectly well without the help of one of his brothers' products, but he was curious. That seemed like very complicated magic, and he really wanted to see how it worked.
Percy took the last bite of his sandwich and turned the page. Ugh! There was an entire section of pink pages-all the Wonder Witch products. He could definitely skip those. Well, at least until he saw Audrey again, when she could explain what everything was and what she liked. Percy went to get a butterbeer.
He pulled out the cork, took a swig, and turned the page. And the next and the next and the next. There were several pages that were black with nothing on them. Percy knew he had to have missed something and turned back to the last Wonder Witch page. Next to it there was a plain black page with white writing at the top. "You must be at least 17 to view the following pages. If you are not yet 17, move along to the products later in the catalogue. If you are 17, touch your wand to the page, and the products will become visible."
Wow. Fred and George must have figured out how to make their catalogue detect the Trace. That was brilliant! And surprisingly responsible. Percy touched his wand to the page, and his mouth dropped open when he saw what appeared. Adult versions of the Patented Daydream Charms. Blimey. There were quite a few varieties. Percy looked them over and turned the page.
Bloody Hell! Percy had no idea what most of these things were, but there were instructions to tap your wand to the box and there would be moving illustrations that demonstrated the use of the product. Percy touched one of the boxes and watched. Hmmm . . . so that was what it was for. He touched a different box. Well, there was a trip to St. Mungo's waiting to happen. He touched another box. How was the man in the illustration doing that? Percy wasn't sure he could manage it even if he knew.
Percy turned the page and activated a few more of the illustrations. He was alone in his flat, and was blushing. One thing was certain-his little brothers were apparently much more experienced than he was if they could invent these products.
Percy decided to move on and quickly turned several pages until he was out of the adult section of the catalogue. Oh, those were cute. Pygmy Puffs. They looked rather like puffskeins except they were smaller and in very bright colors. At the bottom of the page there were shiny letters that were constantly changing colors. "Introducing our brand new, never before seen, Pygmy Puff color . . ."
Percy turned the page which made a trumpeting sound when he did. The top of the next page said, "BLEENGRUE!" Below it was a Pygmy Puff . . . Percy dropped the catalogue and knocked over his butterbeer. He caught the butterbeer before it all spilled, took a long drink, and picked up the catalogue. That Pygmy Puff was the exact color of Audrey's eyes. "Bleengrue-is it green, is it blue? If you can't tell-it's bleengrue!" Percy snorted. Only Fred and George would come up with something like 'bleengrue' as the name for a color. Percy had to buy one of those Pygmy Puffs.
He flipped to the back of the catalogue and found the order form. Would Fred and George recognize Hermes? They hadn't seen him in two years, so Percy decided to take the risk. He finished his butterbeer, and spent the next hour going through the catalogue carefully, deciding what he was going to order. Of course, the bleengrue Pygmy Puff. And he selected one of the Patented Daydream charms, not the adult version. He decided it would be best to try the regular one first. And he also ordered Voice Activated Perpetual Parchment. It was really expensive, but it came with its own quill and guaranteed replacement for life if the parchment ran out. Percy thought he could use it to "talk" to Audrey. She'd be able to read everything he said when he saw her again. Percy wouldn't even let himself think the word "if". He completed the order form and sent it off with Hermes, after instructing the owl to wait for the order. He wondered how long it would take to arrive.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Audrey readied herself for work, smiling happily. Percy loved her! And she hadn’t needed to initiate that conversation. Of course, she reciprocated his feelings. Letting him leave last night had been extremely difficult and taken absolutely all of her willpower. And cuddling on the sofa fully dressed was not what she had in mind. But they did both have to go to work today . . . Soon, though, Audrey thought.
Audrey was running a bit late with all her daydreaming, so decided to Apparate. When she tried, though, she couldn’t. What in the world? Audrey didn’t know why she couldn’t Apparate. She set out walking at a brisk pace.
Audrey arrived at the Ministry to a crowd milling around outside. She had no idea what was going on. She began approaching the building until she heard, “Hem, hem.”
Audrey shuddered, and she felt her blood run cold as she turned around. "Good morning, Madam Umbridge."
"Miss Mitchell. You will not be entering the Ministry today. A group of Muggleborn conspirators assassinated the Minister over the weekend, and there is an investigation in effect. All offices relating to Muggles will be closed temporarily, and all Muggleborns will hand over their wands so that Priori Incantatem may be cast. Here is a questionnaire for you to complete. You will be called for a hearing before the Muggleborn Registration Commission most likely tomorrow." Dolores gave Audrey a sheaf of paperwork. "Please surrender your wand to assist in the investigation."
Without a word, Audrey gave Umbridge her wand."Return home, Miss Mitchell. We will call you for your hearing. We are interviewing Ministry employees first, of course."
Audrey just nodded, turned on her heel, and began the walk home. When she arrived at her flat, she rummaged in her purse for her Muggle key, opened the door, and went straight to the top shelf of her closet for her second wand. She concentrated and Apparated.
Audrey arrived in a heap on the floor of Aunt Gussie’s kitchen, and immediately started to cry.
"Audrey? Cous, what’s the matter?"
Audrey couldn’t speak through her tears.
"Would you like me to help you up?"
Audrey shook her head.
"Er . . . I’ll make some tea. Gran’s gone to the market, but she’ll be back soon."
Audrey nodded through her sobs. When she heard the kettle whistle, she tried to quiet her crying, and accepted the handkerchief, and then the hand, offered to her. Audrey mopped at her eyes and took a shuddering breath.
"Thank you, Cous," she whispered.
"No problem. Have some tea, Cous. Gran says tea makes everything seem better."
Audrey chuckled wetly, hugged Cous, and sat down at the table to drink her tea. It really was excellent tea, and after only a few sips, Audrey did feel a bit better. Cous sat in silence with her drinking his tea. That was one thing Audrey loved about him. Without her needing to explain, he understood she preferred to wait for Aunt Gussie to return and only tell her story once.
With a pop of Apparation, Aunt Gussie arrived in the kitchen.
"Here, Gran, I’ll take the bags," Cous said helpfully.
"Thank you, Neville. I didn’t expect to see you this morning, Audrey."
Audrey burst into tears again.
"Dear, whatever is the matter?" Augusta hugged Audrey as she cried.
When Audrey collected herself enough to speak, she told Aunt Gussie and Cous all about the Ministry that morning, Umbridge, and getting her extra wand.
"Didn't you read The Daily Prophet this weekend? That should have at least given you clues as to what was happening at the Ministry."
With a sigh, Audrey explained her idea of "Muggle Weekend" and why she hadn't seen a newspaper since Friday.
"So, you have a boyfriend?" Neville asked. "Anyone we know?"
"I'm going out with Percy Weasley."
Augusta said, "The Weasleys are a fine, upstanding Wizarding family. I'm sure Percy is a nice young man."
At the same time, Neville said, "You're going out with Percy"?
That got Audrey's hackles up. "And what's wrong with Percy?"
Neville held up his hands placatingly. "Nothing, nothing at all. He's just very different from Walt, that's all."
"I'd say being different from Walt is a good thing!" Aunt Gussie said firmly.
"I'd agree," added Audrey.
"That's a good point," Neville acquiesced.
Audrey didn’t pursue the matter further, but turned to Aunt Gussie. "What am I going to do, Aunt Gussie?"
"You're going to go stay with Lucy and Ed . . ."
"Leave?! But what about Percy?"
"The Weasleys are Purebloods. As long as Percy does not cause trouble, he will be fine. If you go to that hearing, they will put you in Azkaban."
"But I haven’t done anything wrong! Percy and I were in the Muggle world all weekend. I know he'd testify on my behalf, and I'd be cleared."
Aunt Gussie sighed. "Audrey, Muggleborns did not murder the Minister. Death Eaters did. Alastor has feared the infiltration of the Ministry for quite some time. This is just like the last War. People began disappearing quietly at first. You will have to leave the country. Fortunately, you have family who will take you in."
"Couldn't Percy come with me?"
"Love, the Weasleys are a very well-known family, and Percy works under the Minister. If he disappears, the Death Eaters will target his family members, more than they already do, I'd imagine."
"Percy hasn't even spoken to his family in a couple of years! They don't know we're going out . . ."
"I imagine he still cares for his family, doesn't he? And they certainly still care for him. It doesn't matter whether or not they know anything. The Death Eaters scarcely need an excuse to torture people for information. Now, why don’t we go and pack up your flat?"
Audrey choked back tears and nodded.
"Neville, while we are gone, please run into the village and telephone Lucy to let her know Audrey will be on her way soon. The Muggle telephone card and Lucy's telephone number are in the drawer of the table in the entry way."
Neville nodded and immediately left with a quick wave to Audrey.
"Why don't I Apparate both of us, dear?" Audrey let her.
***
Aunt Gussie and Audrey landed in Audrey's flat. If not for Aunt Gussie's hold on her, Audrey would have been on the floor again. Aunt Gussie hugged her before releasing her. "Well, then. Are there any ornaments or household items you would like to take with you or should I pack them all?"
Audrey walked to her fireplace and picked up the picture of herself and Neville at the Yule Ball. She grabbed her camera and a couple of rolls of film from the kitchen counter. "Just these. You can pack everything else. I'll go work on my clothes. Thank you, Aunt Gussie."
"Of course, dear." Aunt Gussie set to work as Audrey headed to her bedroom.
Audrey wasn't the tidiest person, and as soon as she entered her bedroom, she saw the clothes she had worn to the British Museum. She couldn't believe it had only been two days ago. It seemed forever. She picked them up and smelled them. They smelled like Percy, since he had held her all night while she was wearing them. Maybe she wouldn't wash them. Audrey heard Aunt Gussie's bustling around in her flat, but she ignored it. Audrey started crying again, knowing she and Percy would most likely be apart for a long time. She wrapped her arms around her clothes inhaling deeply and curled up on her bed.
Audrey awoke to Aunt Gussie's shaking her and calling her name. "Oh Audrey!" Aunt Gussie said hugging her once she had sat up.
Audrey felt her face getting hot at being caught napping hugging dirty clothes. When she saw the caring look on Aunt Gussie's face, she said tearfully, "These still smell like Percy."
Aunt Gussie nodded with understanding. "The sense of smell is very powerful in evoking memories." She paused for a moment and took Audrey’s hand in hers. "Audrey, love, I don't want to cause you further distress, but I need to ask you something."
Audrey nodded.
"Is there any chance you could be pregnant?"
Audrey shook her head. "No, I'm not pregnant. Percy and I haven't . . . We aren't . . . I didn't want to rush things, and Percy's a perfect gentleman. I didn't want to make a mistake like I did with Walt. Not that I think Percy's a mistake . . ." Audrey shrugged as she lapsed into silence.
"Very wise, dear. I just wanted to make sure. It would complicate things if you gave birth in a different country. It's simpler since it's just you visiting your great aunt." Aunt Gussie patted Audrey's hand. "Now, why don't I help pack up in here as well?"
***
With Aunt Gussie's help, everything in Audrey's flat was shrunk and packed in only a couple of hours.
"How much notice do you need to give your landlord before moving out, Audrey?"
"Two weeks. My rent is paid through August, why?"
"Good. Then write him a note and I'll send it from the post office in mid-August. If the Death Eaters are watching you, we don't want to give them actual proof you are gone until you are safely out of the country."
"I know you said you helped Muggleborns in the War, but you've really done this a lot, haven't you?"
"Yes, dear. Unfortunately I have needed to. Now we need to talk to your parents and convince them to accompany you."
"Do you think they are in danger?"
"Not to the extent the Weasleys are in danger, but it never hurts to be careful." Audrey nodded solemnly and took Aunt Gussie's arm. They Apparated to the stationery store where Audrey's mother worked.
"I know your mother is not overly fond of me, so I will wait here. Tell her what is happening, and see if she would be willing to visit Lucy with you."
"I will." Audrey took a moment to collect herself and entered the store.
Audrey immediately saw her mum at the cash register ringing up a customer and waited, looking at a display until the woman left the shop.
"Hi, Mum."
"Audrey. Shouldn't you be at work?" Audrey's mother frowned.
"Well, I went to work, but my department has been closed."
"So you're unemployed again." Audrey's mum sighed.
"Yes, but that's not really the bad part."
"Really. Well, then, spit it out. I have customers waiting."
Audrey looked around. There was nobody else in the store. Even the other employees must be in the back taking a break. Audrey sighed.
"The Minister of Magic was murdered by Death Eaters over the weekend. The Death Eaters have infiltrated the Ministry and are targeting Muggleborns and possibly their families. Aunt Gussie is helping me, and I'm going to go stay with Nanny and Uncle Ed. I would like you and Dad to come with me so I know you're safe."
"What is this nonsense? You and your magic . . ."
"Mum! It's not nonsense! And it's not magic, it's Death Eaters. Death Eaters kill people!"
"How dare you interrupt me! And it is nonsense. We have had our lives constantly disrupted from your magic mess and not again. Your father just got two new clients, and he certainly isn't going to abandon them. And the store just promoted me to Assistant Manager. I'm not running away, especially from some perceived threat."
Audrey could not believe her mother made air quotes.
"If you want to leave, fine. Do whatever you want. You've never listened to me anyway. Your father and I are staying right here."
Audrey bravely held back her tears. "All right, Mum."
Audrey moved to hug her mother, but she whirled around, saying, "I'm taking my break now."
Audrey whispered to her mother's retreating back, "Be safe." Audrey left the shop with a stifled sob.
When she got outside, Aunt Gussie hugged her tightly. "I know, love. I used an eavesdropping charm." Audrey snorted. "I've already cast protective spells on the shop. Apparate me to where your father works, and I'll take care of that as well."
When they arrived at her father's office, he wasn't there, but Aunt Gussie cast all of the protective charms she could. They did the same thing at her parents' home before returning to Aunt Gussie's.
When they arrived back at Aunt Gussie’s home, Neville had lunch set out.
"I made some soup with herbs and vegetables from the garden and some sandwiches. I thought you both might be hungry."
"Thank you, dear. That was very thoughtful." Aunt Gussie kissed Neville's cheek.
"It really smells wonderful, Cous."
After a delicious lunch, Aunt Gussie asked Audrey, "Are you ready to go?"
"Go? Now?"
"I telephoned Aunt Lucy and told her you were coming. She's looking forward to seeing you even though she wishes it were under different circumstances. We had a good conversation. Maybe a bit long . . . I used up the card thing and all the Muggle coins."
"Thank you, Neville. I will get more soon."
"I thought I'd say good-bye to Percy after he gets off work. Before I leave, I mean."
"Love, I hate to tell you this, but you can't see Percy before you leave. He is definitely being watched, and it would endanger both of you and your families to contact him."
Audrey began to protest, "But . . ."
"Owls can be easily intercepted, dear. I'm assuming Percy doesn't own a telephone?"
"No, he doesn't," Audrey whispered.
"Gran, would it be possible for Audrey to write Percy a letter if we hand delivered it?"
"That would be great, Cous! Definitely better than nothing!"
"Hmm . . . what excuse would you use to contact Percy?"
"Well, I do know him. He was a Prefect in my first year, and Head Boy when I was a third year. Maybe I could owl him to ask for advice on careers in the Ministry or something?"
"The idea has merit . . ."
"Please Aunt Gussie? At least he'd know what happened to me. It's horrible not saying good-bye, but Percy's not knowing what happened to me would be worse."
"All right, dear. I'll help Neville with his idea, and we will get word to Percy. It won't be until later this week, though, because we wouldn't want the Death Eaters to connect an unusual owl to Percy with your disappearance. We don't know if they've seen you together or not."
After a moment of silence Audrey burst out, "It's not fair! No one should care whether people are Pureblood or Muggleborn or Half-Blood or Muggle. It doesn't make any difference!"
"I completely agree, dear, but unfortunately, as long as there are people who are willing to kill over blood status, there will need to be people like us who are willing to fight them. Now dear, I know this is hard, but we really need to get ready to go."
Wiping a tear from her cheek, Audrey nodded. She stood from the table, and hugged Neville tightly. "I know I’ve always called you 'Cous' but I think of you as my little brother. Keep yourself safe. I love you."
Neville hugged her back just as tightly. "Love you, too. You better come back soon because I don't have any other big sisters to give me advice about girls."
Audrey laughed and whispered in his ear, "You'll be fine." Audrey took Aunt Gussie's arm, and they Apparated away.
Chapter 6: Unusual Correspondence
Word Count: ~73,000 + and counting; 4951 for chapter five
Rating: PG-13 (I *think* it stays PG-13 all the way through the story.)
Summary: Essentially, the events of "Deathly Hallows" from Percy Weasley's and Audrey Mitchell's points of view, including frequent cameos by Fred and George Weasley, and the Longbottoms, as well as other canon characters.
Chapter 1: When Percy Met Audrey
Chapter 2: Going Out
Chapter 3: Weasley Wizard Wheezes
Chapter 3.5: Seeing Is Believing
Chapter 4: Muggle Weekend
CHAPTER 5:
Percy Apparated back to his flat and stood there, staring around at nothing. He eventually let his briefcase fall to the floor. He couldn't believe Audrey was gone! He started to pace back and forth across the small room. Where had she gone? Her friend Sara was in Switzerland. She might have gone there. Nanny lived somewhere in the States, another possibility. What about her parents? Were they going to be all right? Then there was Aunt Gussie. He didn't know where she lived, but she was in England. Maybe she helped Audrey leave the country?
But why would Audrey need to leave the country? She didn't assassinate the Minister. She was with him. Any hearing would immediately clear her. And how did they even know "a Muggleborn Conspiracy" had assassinated the Minister? Were there spells that would tell them that? Percy didn't know, but determined to find out.
Percy knew he couldn't continue to pace all night. What was he going to do? He wanted to talk to Audrey. He'd only known her for two months, but now he didn't know what to do without her. What did he do before he knew Audrey? He worked. When he thought about it, he didn't have any close friends. He had not told anybody he was going out with Audrey. There wasn't anyone to tell, since he had only seen his family once in two years.
If Bill or Charlie found themselves in this situation, they'd grab one of their mates and go have a few shots of Firewhisky. Percy didn't really care for Firewhisky, and another person was out of the question because there wasn't anybody, but maybe if he had a nice glass of Merlot? It hadn't even been forty-eight hours since he'd shared a bottle of Merlot with Audrey . . .
He went to rummage around in his pantry, and . . . success! There was a bottle of Merlot hiding in the back. Percy reached for a wine glass from the rack, but his hands were shaking so badly, he managed to knock the rack onto the floor, breaking every glass he owned. Bloody Hell! He waved his wand, angrily shouting, "Reparo!" The shards flew together in a rather interesting shape, but there wasn't a wine glass in sight. Percy swore again and kicked the "sculpture". It shattered rather spectacularly. Percy left the shards there, pointed his wand at the bottle to remove the cork, and nothing happened. Damn! It was a twist cap. Percy opened it angrily and took a long swig. He stomped across the broken glass, his hard-soled shoes making rather satisfying crunching noises, threw himself onto his couch, and continued to drink Merlot straight from the bottle.
***
Something was bothering Percy's eyes. He half opened one and realized it was sunlight. Huh? He tried to open both eyes, but that didn't work, so he slowly sat up. He felt like a puffskein had built a nest on his tongue. He half opened one eye again, and saw the empty Merlot bottle on the floor. He didn't remember too clearly how it got there. The last time he awoke on a sofa was far superior to this one. That thought made his heart ache. He finally managed to get both of his eyes open, and saw the clock. Merlin! He had to get ready for work.
Percy made it to the ministry by ten after nine, which was not too horrible, considering. He'd had to cast his first ever glamour charm to hide his puffy, bloodshot eyes, and thankfully managed not to vomit when he flushed himself into work. He planned to go straight to his office and stay there for as long as possible. He was in his corridor when he heard a high pitched voice behind him.
"Hem! Hem! Oh Percy!"
Percy's heart sank, but he turned around. "Yes, Dolores?"
Dolores Umbridge had continued down the corridor and was now standing right in front of him. "Percy, the Minister informed me you might be spared from your regular duties to help me with record keeping for the hearings that begin today."
This was the last thing Percy wanted to do right now. Would he even be able to stay awake during hearings? "Of course, Dolores."
"Very good, then. Come with me please." Percy moved to put his briefcase in his office, but Umbridge stopped him with a hand on his arm.
"Oh no, no. That won't do, Percy. We are already late. You may put your things away later, but you need to come with me right now."
Percy nodded and followed her. They took the lift to level ten, and Percy could not believe how cold it was. Before they left the lift, Umbridge said, "Expecto Patronum!" and a large cat came out of her wand. Although the Patronus made the temperature warmer, Percy shivered even more.
Down the hallway, he saw a number of people huddled together on benches with guards and dementors surrounding them. The dementors backed away from Umbridge's Patronus, but it only gave the people on the benches momentary relief. As soon as they had passed, the dementors returned to hovering around the benches.
Umbridge and Percy entered the courtroom, where the large man who had accosted Percy the previous day was already sitting on the dais in the front.
"Yaxley, the Minister freed Percy Weasley's schedule for record keeping for us, so we can get started."
"I, Dolores Jane Umbridge, Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic and Chair of the Muggleborn Registration Commission, call this hearing to order." Umbridge rifled through some papers in front of her. "The first to be called for questioning is Victoria Elizabeth Anderson, formerly of Magical Maintenance. Please bring in Mrs Anderson."
Percy saw a terrified woman brought in by a guard and flanked by two dementors. He thought this must be the hearing about the murder of the Minister, but as he took the minutes, he realized none of Umbridge's and Yaxley's questions had anything to do with a murder investigation, but with the suspect's being Muggleborn. Mrs Anderson was sent to Azkaban for no reason Percy could understand. He felt queasy. The next three "suspects" had not appeared for their hearings, and Yaxley issued warrants for their arrest. The next four "suspects" were sent to Azkaban. Then Umbridge called, "Audrey Anne Mitchell."
Percy's ears perked up, and he sat up straighter. Audrey hadn't been sitting on those benches with the dementors had she? But no, the guard came back in and shook his head. Yaxley issued a warrant for Audrey's arrest. Percy breathed a sigh of relief. If Yaxley was issuing a warrant for Audrey's arrest, then the Ministry did not have her in custody. There was at least a chance Audrey was safe and was not going to end up in Azkaban, simply for being Muggleborn.
Umbridge had lunch brought in for herself, Percy, and Yaxley. Percy didn't see how he could eat, since he was sickened by what was happening, but he surprised himself when he saw the food, and was suddenly famished. Of course, Percy realized he hadn't actually eaten anything at all (downing a bottle of Merlot did not count) since yesterday morning. No wonder he was hungry! He ate with gusto and with his mouth constantly full, couldn't participate in Umbridge's and Yaxley's disturbing conversation about how happy they were to finally be sorting out the "Mudblood problem".
When Percy arrived home after the afternoon hearing, he once again stared around his flat. He really needed to clean. He began to pick up various clutter. He felt better than he had the previous day, since at least Audrey wasn't in Azkaban, and the Ministry didn't know where she was. But what had happened to the Ministry? Where had he seen Yaxley before? Why this drastic change of policy? Was there really some kind of Muggleborn conspiracy? Percy didn't think so, and even if there were, he knew Audrey wasn't part of it.
Percy moved into his kitchen and saw all the shattered glass. He Vanished the lot. He had always been pants at repairing anything. As he systematically scourgified every surface in his kitchen, he thought, "Audrey Anne Mitchell". He hadn't known Audrey's middle name before. That was at least one good thing to come from these hearings, although the ten people now in Azkaban would probably take little comfort in it. Audrey Anne. It was a pretty name and rolled off his tongue so nicely. He said it out loud a few times. Audrey Anne, Audrey Anne, Audrey Anne. Audrey Anne Weasley. Blimey! Where had that come from? Well, he did have an engagement ring in his pocket. Audrey Anne Weasley. Percy smiled to himself as he went to clean his bathroom.
Percy finished his housecleaning by organizing the papers on his desk. He picked up the last stack that needed filing, and found beneath it a catalogue for Weasley Wizard Wheezes. Audrey had given it to him after he had Apparated out of the shop, so he could peruse his brother's products without being caught. He hadn't looked at it yet, but now he had nothing better to do, it might be entertaining.
Percy made himself a sandwich and sat at his table with the catalogue. He quickly skimmed the opening pages of trick wands, Skiving Snackboxes, various kinds of fireworks. He was not interested in any of that nonsense. Oh, here though. Percy read carefully about Patented Daydream Charms. They really sounded very interesting. Percy was quite sure he could daydream about Audrey perfectly well without the help of one of his brothers' products, but he was curious. That seemed like very complicated magic, and he really wanted to see how it worked.
Percy took the last bite of his sandwich and turned the page. Ugh! There was an entire section of pink pages-all the Wonder Witch products. He could definitely skip those. Well, at least until he saw Audrey again, when she could explain what everything was and what she liked. Percy went to get a butterbeer.
He pulled out the cork, took a swig, and turned the page. And the next and the next and the next. There were several pages that were black with nothing on them. Percy knew he had to have missed something and turned back to the last Wonder Witch page. Next to it there was a plain black page with white writing at the top. "You must be at least 17 to view the following pages. If you are not yet 17, move along to the products later in the catalogue. If you are 17, touch your wand to the page, and the products will become visible."
Wow. Fred and George must have figured out how to make their catalogue detect the Trace. That was brilliant! And surprisingly responsible. Percy touched his wand to the page, and his mouth dropped open when he saw what appeared. Adult versions of the Patented Daydream Charms. Blimey. There were quite a few varieties. Percy looked them over and turned the page.
Bloody Hell! Percy had no idea what most of these things were, but there were instructions to tap your wand to the box and there would be moving illustrations that demonstrated the use of the product. Percy touched one of the boxes and watched. Hmmm . . . so that was what it was for. He touched a different box. Well, there was a trip to St. Mungo's waiting to happen. He touched another box. How was the man in the illustration doing that? Percy wasn't sure he could manage it even if he knew.
Percy turned the page and activated a few more of the illustrations. He was alone in his flat, and was blushing. One thing was certain-his little brothers were apparently much more experienced than he was if they could invent these products.
Percy decided to move on and quickly turned several pages until he was out of the adult section of the catalogue. Oh, those were cute. Pygmy Puffs. They looked rather like puffskeins except they were smaller and in very bright colors. At the bottom of the page there were shiny letters that were constantly changing colors. "Introducing our brand new, never before seen, Pygmy Puff color . . ."
Percy turned the page which made a trumpeting sound when he did. The top of the next page said, "BLEENGRUE!" Below it was a Pygmy Puff . . . Percy dropped the catalogue and knocked over his butterbeer. He caught the butterbeer before it all spilled, took a long drink, and picked up the catalogue. That Pygmy Puff was the exact color of Audrey's eyes. "Bleengrue-is it green, is it blue? If you can't tell-it's bleengrue!" Percy snorted. Only Fred and George would come up with something like 'bleengrue' as the name for a color. Percy had to buy one of those Pygmy Puffs.
He flipped to the back of the catalogue and found the order form. Would Fred and George recognize Hermes? They hadn't seen him in two years, so Percy decided to take the risk. He finished his butterbeer, and spent the next hour going through the catalogue carefully, deciding what he was going to order. Of course, the bleengrue Pygmy Puff. And he selected one of the Patented Daydream charms, not the adult version. He decided it would be best to try the regular one first. And he also ordered Voice Activated Perpetual Parchment. It was really expensive, but it came with its own quill and guaranteed replacement for life if the parchment ran out. Percy thought he could use it to "talk" to Audrey. She'd be able to read everything he said when he saw her again. Percy wouldn't even let himself think the word "if". He completed the order form and sent it off with Hermes, after instructing the owl to wait for the order. He wondered how long it would take to arrive.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Audrey readied herself for work, smiling happily. Percy loved her! And she hadn’t needed to initiate that conversation. Of course, she reciprocated his feelings. Letting him leave last night had been extremely difficult and taken absolutely all of her willpower. And cuddling on the sofa fully dressed was not what she had in mind. But they did both have to go to work today . . . Soon, though, Audrey thought.
Audrey was running a bit late with all her daydreaming, so decided to Apparate. When she tried, though, she couldn’t. What in the world? Audrey didn’t know why she couldn’t Apparate. She set out walking at a brisk pace.
Audrey arrived at the Ministry to a crowd milling around outside. She had no idea what was going on. She began approaching the building until she heard, “Hem, hem.”
Audrey shuddered, and she felt her blood run cold as she turned around. "Good morning, Madam Umbridge."
"Miss Mitchell. You will not be entering the Ministry today. A group of Muggleborn conspirators assassinated the Minister over the weekend, and there is an investigation in effect. All offices relating to Muggles will be closed temporarily, and all Muggleborns will hand over their wands so that Priori Incantatem may be cast. Here is a questionnaire for you to complete. You will be called for a hearing before the Muggleborn Registration Commission most likely tomorrow." Dolores gave Audrey a sheaf of paperwork. "Please surrender your wand to assist in the investigation."
Without a word, Audrey gave Umbridge her wand."Return home, Miss Mitchell. We will call you for your hearing. We are interviewing Ministry employees first, of course."
Audrey just nodded, turned on her heel, and began the walk home. When she arrived at her flat, she rummaged in her purse for her Muggle key, opened the door, and went straight to the top shelf of her closet for her second wand. She concentrated and Apparated.
Audrey arrived in a heap on the floor of Aunt Gussie’s kitchen, and immediately started to cry.
"Audrey? Cous, what’s the matter?"
Audrey couldn’t speak through her tears.
"Would you like me to help you up?"
Audrey shook her head.
"Er . . . I’ll make some tea. Gran’s gone to the market, but she’ll be back soon."
Audrey nodded through her sobs. When she heard the kettle whistle, she tried to quiet her crying, and accepted the handkerchief, and then the hand, offered to her. Audrey mopped at her eyes and took a shuddering breath.
"Thank you, Cous," she whispered.
"No problem. Have some tea, Cous. Gran says tea makes everything seem better."
Audrey chuckled wetly, hugged Cous, and sat down at the table to drink her tea. It really was excellent tea, and after only a few sips, Audrey did feel a bit better. Cous sat in silence with her drinking his tea. That was one thing Audrey loved about him. Without her needing to explain, he understood she preferred to wait for Aunt Gussie to return and only tell her story once.
With a pop of Apparation, Aunt Gussie arrived in the kitchen.
"Here, Gran, I’ll take the bags," Cous said helpfully.
"Thank you, Neville. I didn’t expect to see you this morning, Audrey."
Audrey burst into tears again.
"Dear, whatever is the matter?" Augusta hugged Audrey as she cried.
When Audrey collected herself enough to speak, she told Aunt Gussie and Cous all about the Ministry that morning, Umbridge, and getting her extra wand.
"Didn't you read The Daily Prophet this weekend? That should have at least given you clues as to what was happening at the Ministry."
With a sigh, Audrey explained her idea of "Muggle Weekend" and why she hadn't seen a newspaper since Friday.
"So, you have a boyfriend?" Neville asked. "Anyone we know?"
"I'm going out with Percy Weasley."
Augusta said, "The Weasleys are a fine, upstanding Wizarding family. I'm sure Percy is a nice young man."
At the same time, Neville said, "You're going out with Percy"?
That got Audrey's hackles up. "And what's wrong with Percy?"
Neville held up his hands placatingly. "Nothing, nothing at all. He's just very different from Walt, that's all."
"I'd say being different from Walt is a good thing!" Aunt Gussie said firmly.
"I'd agree," added Audrey.
"That's a good point," Neville acquiesced.
Audrey didn’t pursue the matter further, but turned to Aunt Gussie. "What am I going to do, Aunt Gussie?"
"You're going to go stay with Lucy and Ed . . ."
"Leave?! But what about Percy?"
"The Weasleys are Purebloods. As long as Percy does not cause trouble, he will be fine. If you go to that hearing, they will put you in Azkaban."
"But I haven’t done anything wrong! Percy and I were in the Muggle world all weekend. I know he'd testify on my behalf, and I'd be cleared."
Aunt Gussie sighed. "Audrey, Muggleborns did not murder the Minister. Death Eaters did. Alastor has feared the infiltration of the Ministry for quite some time. This is just like the last War. People began disappearing quietly at first. You will have to leave the country. Fortunately, you have family who will take you in."
"Couldn't Percy come with me?"
"Love, the Weasleys are a very well-known family, and Percy works under the Minister. If he disappears, the Death Eaters will target his family members, more than they already do, I'd imagine."
"Percy hasn't even spoken to his family in a couple of years! They don't know we're going out . . ."
"I imagine he still cares for his family, doesn't he? And they certainly still care for him. It doesn't matter whether or not they know anything. The Death Eaters scarcely need an excuse to torture people for information. Now, why don’t we go and pack up your flat?"
Audrey choked back tears and nodded.
"Neville, while we are gone, please run into the village and telephone Lucy to let her know Audrey will be on her way soon. The Muggle telephone card and Lucy's telephone number are in the drawer of the table in the entry way."
Neville nodded and immediately left with a quick wave to Audrey.
"Why don't I Apparate both of us, dear?" Audrey let her.
***
Aunt Gussie and Audrey landed in Audrey's flat. If not for Aunt Gussie's hold on her, Audrey would have been on the floor again. Aunt Gussie hugged her before releasing her. "Well, then. Are there any ornaments or household items you would like to take with you or should I pack them all?"
Audrey walked to her fireplace and picked up the picture of herself and Neville at the Yule Ball. She grabbed her camera and a couple of rolls of film from the kitchen counter. "Just these. You can pack everything else. I'll go work on my clothes. Thank you, Aunt Gussie."
"Of course, dear." Aunt Gussie set to work as Audrey headed to her bedroom.
Audrey wasn't the tidiest person, and as soon as she entered her bedroom, she saw the clothes she had worn to the British Museum. She couldn't believe it had only been two days ago. It seemed forever. She picked them up and smelled them. They smelled like Percy, since he had held her all night while she was wearing them. Maybe she wouldn't wash them. Audrey heard Aunt Gussie's bustling around in her flat, but she ignored it. Audrey started crying again, knowing she and Percy would most likely be apart for a long time. She wrapped her arms around her clothes inhaling deeply and curled up on her bed.
Audrey awoke to Aunt Gussie's shaking her and calling her name. "Oh Audrey!" Aunt Gussie said hugging her once she had sat up.
Audrey felt her face getting hot at being caught napping hugging dirty clothes. When she saw the caring look on Aunt Gussie's face, she said tearfully, "These still smell like Percy."
Aunt Gussie nodded with understanding. "The sense of smell is very powerful in evoking memories." She paused for a moment and took Audrey’s hand in hers. "Audrey, love, I don't want to cause you further distress, but I need to ask you something."
Audrey nodded.
"Is there any chance you could be pregnant?"
Audrey shook her head. "No, I'm not pregnant. Percy and I haven't . . . We aren't . . . I didn't want to rush things, and Percy's a perfect gentleman. I didn't want to make a mistake like I did with Walt. Not that I think Percy's a mistake . . ." Audrey shrugged as she lapsed into silence.
"Very wise, dear. I just wanted to make sure. It would complicate things if you gave birth in a different country. It's simpler since it's just you visiting your great aunt." Aunt Gussie patted Audrey's hand. "Now, why don't I help pack up in here as well?"
***
With Aunt Gussie's help, everything in Audrey's flat was shrunk and packed in only a couple of hours.
"How much notice do you need to give your landlord before moving out, Audrey?"
"Two weeks. My rent is paid through August, why?"
"Good. Then write him a note and I'll send it from the post office in mid-August. If the Death Eaters are watching you, we don't want to give them actual proof you are gone until you are safely out of the country."
"I know you said you helped Muggleborns in the War, but you've really done this a lot, haven't you?"
"Yes, dear. Unfortunately I have needed to. Now we need to talk to your parents and convince them to accompany you."
"Do you think they are in danger?"
"Not to the extent the Weasleys are in danger, but it never hurts to be careful." Audrey nodded solemnly and took Aunt Gussie's arm. They Apparated to the stationery store where Audrey's mother worked.
"I know your mother is not overly fond of me, so I will wait here. Tell her what is happening, and see if she would be willing to visit Lucy with you."
"I will." Audrey took a moment to collect herself and entered the store.
Audrey immediately saw her mum at the cash register ringing up a customer and waited, looking at a display until the woman left the shop.
"Hi, Mum."
"Audrey. Shouldn't you be at work?" Audrey's mother frowned.
"Well, I went to work, but my department has been closed."
"So you're unemployed again." Audrey's mum sighed.
"Yes, but that's not really the bad part."
"Really. Well, then, spit it out. I have customers waiting."
Audrey looked around. There was nobody else in the store. Even the other employees must be in the back taking a break. Audrey sighed.
"The Minister of Magic was murdered by Death Eaters over the weekend. The Death Eaters have infiltrated the Ministry and are targeting Muggleborns and possibly their families. Aunt Gussie is helping me, and I'm going to go stay with Nanny and Uncle Ed. I would like you and Dad to come with me so I know you're safe."
"What is this nonsense? You and your magic . . ."
"Mum! It's not nonsense! And it's not magic, it's Death Eaters. Death Eaters kill people!"
"How dare you interrupt me! And it is nonsense. We have had our lives constantly disrupted from your magic mess and not again. Your father just got two new clients, and he certainly isn't going to abandon them. And the store just promoted me to Assistant Manager. I'm not running away, especially from some perceived threat."
Audrey could not believe her mother made air quotes.
"If you want to leave, fine. Do whatever you want. You've never listened to me anyway. Your father and I are staying right here."
Audrey bravely held back her tears. "All right, Mum."
Audrey moved to hug her mother, but she whirled around, saying, "I'm taking my break now."
Audrey whispered to her mother's retreating back, "Be safe." Audrey left the shop with a stifled sob.
When she got outside, Aunt Gussie hugged her tightly. "I know, love. I used an eavesdropping charm." Audrey snorted. "I've already cast protective spells on the shop. Apparate me to where your father works, and I'll take care of that as well."
When they arrived at her father's office, he wasn't there, but Aunt Gussie cast all of the protective charms she could. They did the same thing at her parents' home before returning to Aunt Gussie's.
When they arrived back at Aunt Gussie’s home, Neville had lunch set out.
"I made some soup with herbs and vegetables from the garden and some sandwiches. I thought you both might be hungry."
"Thank you, dear. That was very thoughtful." Aunt Gussie kissed Neville's cheek.
"It really smells wonderful, Cous."
After a delicious lunch, Aunt Gussie asked Audrey, "Are you ready to go?"
"Go? Now?"
"I telephoned Aunt Lucy and told her you were coming. She's looking forward to seeing you even though she wishes it were under different circumstances. We had a good conversation. Maybe a bit long . . . I used up the card thing and all the Muggle coins."
"Thank you, Neville. I will get more soon."
"I thought I'd say good-bye to Percy after he gets off work. Before I leave, I mean."
"Love, I hate to tell you this, but you can't see Percy before you leave. He is definitely being watched, and it would endanger both of you and your families to contact him."
Audrey began to protest, "But . . ."
"Owls can be easily intercepted, dear. I'm assuming Percy doesn't own a telephone?"
"No, he doesn't," Audrey whispered.
"Gran, would it be possible for Audrey to write Percy a letter if we hand delivered it?"
"That would be great, Cous! Definitely better than nothing!"
"Hmm . . . what excuse would you use to contact Percy?"
"Well, I do know him. He was a Prefect in my first year, and Head Boy when I was a third year. Maybe I could owl him to ask for advice on careers in the Ministry or something?"
"The idea has merit . . ."
"Please Aunt Gussie? At least he'd know what happened to me. It's horrible not saying good-bye, but Percy's not knowing what happened to me would be worse."
"All right, dear. I'll help Neville with his idea, and we will get word to Percy. It won't be until later this week, though, because we wouldn't want the Death Eaters to connect an unusual owl to Percy with your disappearance. We don't know if they've seen you together or not."
After a moment of silence Audrey burst out, "It's not fair! No one should care whether people are Pureblood or Muggleborn or Half-Blood or Muggle. It doesn't make any difference!"
"I completely agree, dear, but unfortunately, as long as there are people who are willing to kill over blood status, there will need to be people like us who are willing to fight them. Now dear, I know this is hard, but we really need to get ready to go."
Wiping a tear from her cheek, Audrey nodded. She stood from the table, and hugged Neville tightly. "I know I’ve always called you 'Cous' but I think of you as my little brother. Keep yourself safe. I love you."
Neville hugged her back just as tightly. "Love you, too. You better come back soon because I don't have any other big sisters to give me advice about girls."
Audrey laughed and whispered in his ear, "You'll be fine." Audrey took Aunt Gussie's arm, and they Apparated away.
Chapter 6: Unusual Correspondence