The Arcane Extraction : A Magical Heist

Chapter 1: The Unusual meeting place

Foreword:

Hello, readers, this is my first ever attempt at any writing, so I request you to go easy on me. This story is a fan-fiction set in the J. K. Rowling's Harry Potter universe. It's not connected or canon to the story, obviously and I hope you enjoy it.

Dedicated to:

My non biological yet twin sister, El who has inspired me beyond words.

Without further ado, let us begin.

Chapter 1: The Unusual meeting place

The Dusky Diner wasn't just an inn; it was a place of discretion. The regular crowd always hovered just shy of maximum occupancy. The tables and chairs bore a touch more grime than expected, yet not enough to truly bother anyone. The place's ambiance seemed to cater to a universal sentiment: 'I don't give a damn about your business as long as you don't care about mine,' which almost became its unspoken slogan. It neither attracted nor repelled people—it simply accommodated everyone. Moreover, the staff—barkeep, waitresses, and the owner—were tight-lipped, leaving no room for gossip. If, by chance, someone asked the barkeep about the town's news, they might receive a somewhat satisfactory answer. However, inquiries about the happenings at a specific table would be met with a cold stare and a curt 'Mind your own business.' The inn's rooms maintained the standard one would expect from such a remote and cold establishment.

As the doors swung open, two men briskly entered and settled at an empty table, facing each other. One towered above the other, both dressed distinctly—the tall man, in his early thirties, adorned in black with a cloak turned into a hood, while the slightly shorter one, about the same age as the former, wore a deep blue waistcoat over a white shirt, paired with a blue hat he promptly removed upon sitting down. The shorter man broke the silence, "Are you certain this is a suitable place for our dealings, Mr. Thorne?" indicating his unfamiliarity with the place. "It's fine; I'm a regular here. I know the usuals and the staff, so you can relax. And please, call me Ashford, Mr. Duncan Hill," responded the tall man. "Duncan is fine. So, what do you think about the matter I inquired about?" Duncan, scanning the bar, inquired further. "It's feasible but quite challenging. Excuse me for a moment," Ashford gestured to a passing waitress, signaling her with a slight lift of his arm. "What can I get for you today, Ash? The usual?" she asked. "Yes, please, and I'll need a room for a few days, unsure of the exact duration," replied Ashford. "I'll arrange your usual room and order. What about your friend?" she turned to Duncan. "I'll have a gin and tonic, thank you," he said. As she went to collect their orders, Duncan remarked, "You do know this place well." They sat in silence until their drinks arrived, clinking glasses before taking a sip.

"This whiskey, neat, isn't it?" observed Duncan, to which Ashford nodded and smiled. "Muggle drinks are underrated," commented Ashford. "I understand why you've chosen a muggle establishment over the usual magical ones, but aren't you concerned about the absence of anti-magical protections? It could've been advantageous," queried Duncan. "No, Duncan, it suits me. I've conducted more business here than in any privacy-assured magical establishment," replied Ashford. "If you're certain," Duncan responded, somewhat uncertainly. "Regarding the job, it's possible but challenging. It's the toughest I've ever undertaken. May I ask, why me?" Ashford inquired. "Your reputation precedes you, Ashford." "I prefer to remain unknown," Ashford noted. "Despite that, your reputation exists. Even among a few Aurors. It's nearly impossible not to leave a trail. However, it's not just your reputation; I've witnessed and heard of your 'jobs' firsthand. I wouldn't have contacted you otherwise. You comprehend the gravity of what I'm asking," explained Duncan, sipping his drink. Ashford fixed his gaze on Duncan, a silent threat shimmering in his eyes. "How can I be sure you'll fulfill your end of the bargain?" "Other than my word, I can offer nothing. You understand, there's no other possible assurance," replied Duncan. "There isn't much else, I suppose." "Let's dispense with this charade, Ashford, we both know you're assessing my reaction," Duncan said, a subtle smile gracing his lips. They engaged in a silent stare-off, both understanding the other's unwavering resolve. Ashford raised his glass, Duncan followed suit, and they clinked together. "So, what's your plan, Ashford?" asked Duncan. Ashford grinned, "I need a team."