𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐏𝐄 𝐃𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐈𝐒

XXIX

Act XXIX.

Fiat Justitia.

Let justice be done.

“We have to find out what she knows!” Draco broke the silence that had followed his summarization of his brief meeting with Mrs. Zabini. “It’s the only lead we have right now.”

“It could be a trick, Mr. Black. Mrs. Zabini is known for those, after all,” McGonagall said in measured tones. “Her habit of acquiring husbands and discarding them to get to their fortunes is common knowledge and yet the Ministry has still to catch her.”

“Well, perhaps that has more to do with the Ministry’s incompetence than her cunning!” Draco growled impatiently. “We’ll never know if we just sit here discussing things!”

“Young man, your impatience will someday cost you more than even you can afford! I know you are distraught about Severus. We all are, but do soften your tongue! Your mother taught you better than that,” McGonagall admonished him sharply.

Chastised by the mention of his mother, Draco sat back down. “Be that as it may, Professor. We have far more important matters to discuss than my manners.” He sneered. “We should see what she has to say.” Draco turned to a silent Dumbledore.

Albus nodded. “It is true that we cannot afford to be tricked, but neither should we stand idly by and do nothing.” Albus sighed as he rubbed his aching temples. “Have her swear under Veritaserum that she speaks truth about Severus’ location. Once you have verified the information she has to offer, I shall see to the custodial release of Blaise Zabini and Theodore Nott.” He made to stand up, only to have both Poppy and Draco push him back down again. Surprised, he looked at them in confusion.

“Don’t give me that, Albus. You can conduct whatever business you have from this bed. If I must, I will go and fetch the Minister myself but you are not to leave this bed for any reason. Is that clear?” Poppy told him sternly.

Draco smirked as he nodded along with what the nurse was saying. “What she said,” he told the stunned Headmaster, “but with a lot more force thrown in.” He smiled reassuringly. “We can handle this. You once said you trusted me because trust needed a place to start. Now I am asking you for that same trust, only this time I hope you can give it to me fully knowing that it is a trust that is deserved. I know that is a lot to ask for in light of recent events, but I am hoping that-”

Albus returned the smile fondly. “I do trust you, my boy. That has never changed. You don’t need to worry about that, but-“

“Don’t start arguing with the boy, Albus,” Minerva cut in. “Or Merlin knows we’ll be here all night. Besides, he’s right. It’s time we took matters into our own hands and stopped relying on you for everything.” She put up a hand as Albus began to protest. “We’ll be fine. I will personally give her the Veritaserum and take down her statement. As soon as we’ve verified that her information is correct, I will come here and inform you immediately. Until then, rest and save your strength for your fight with the Minister. I suspect it’s going to be another rousing one.” She smiled thinly.

Albus sank back on his pillows in defeat. “Knowing Fudge, I have no doubt it will be.”

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“What is your name?” Minerva asked as she spelled her quill to record the interrogation.

“Anastasia Zabini,” came the mechanical answer.

“Who is your son?”

“Blaise Zabini.”

“Why did you come here?”