Yearning Beyond Reach

Run Away with Red Hand II

Hermione had settled into a quiet life in Copenhagen after seeking refuge there. She had arrived without much fanfare, and, as she expected, the Danish Ministry didn't ask any questions. They simply followed their own laws, which allowed her to stay without prying into the reasons. This suited Hermione perfectly. She was given a modest apartment and a few rules to abide by: most importantly, no use of magic. That wasn't a problem for her; she had long since decided that blending in would be her best chance of disappearing quietly.

On her very first day, Hermione set out to run some errands. The streets of Copenhagen were lively, yet peaceful, with a warm breeze carrying the sounds of street musicians and the distant hum of bicycle bells. She could smell the scent of salty sea air.

After picking up her groceries, she decided to stop by the little bookstore she frequented. The shop owner, a kind, older man with round glasses and a penchant for classic literature, greeted her with a warm smile. "Good morning," he said in English with a tinge of an accent cheerfully as he handed her the book she had ordered. She paid for it.

With her new book tucked under her arm, Hermione made her way back to the train station. She took the short ride back towards her neighborhood. The train was slightly crowded. Hermione got off at her stop and climbed the stairs from the underground station, emerging onto a bustling street filled with people enjoying the warm summer day. She spotted a news booth at the corner and was about to walk past it when something caught her eye—a newspaper with a moving photograph.

Curious, she hesitated, and then her heart sank as she recognized the face in the picture. Draco Malfoy. She felt a jolt of shock and quickly picked up the abandoned newspaper lying on a nearby bench. She glanced around to make sure no one was paying attention, then sat down and opened it discreetly. 

Draco Malfoy Appointed as Legal Counsel in High-Profile Fugitive Case

The Ministry of Magic announced today that Draco Malfoy, a prominent legal representative, has been appointed to defend a high-profile fugitive case. Sources confirm that the case involves a British witch who remained missing. Malfoy, known for his expertise in complex legal matters and a controversial past, was seen entering the Ministry earlier this week to discuss the proceedings.

Malfoy's appointment has stirred controversy due to his past associations with the Dark Arts. However, over the last seven years since leaving Hogwarts, he has established himself as one of the most formidable wizarding lawyers in Britain. When the new Minister reformed the judicial system to allow a more standardized trial process, Malfoy was among the first to take up the role of legal counsel, quickly gaining a reputation for his skill in navigating tricky cases. Known for his sharp intellect and strategic approach, he has successfully defended several clients accused of illegal activities, often securing their release on technicalities or loopholes.

The announcement has raised a significant question: why would Draco Malfoy, with his high-profile career and carefully rebuilt reputation, be interested in taking on this particular case? Given his background, many speculate that Malfoy sees this as another opportunity to prove his skills in the legal arena, or perhaps there are deeper motivations at play. The Ministry has not officially disclosed the name of the accused, but sources suggest that the individual faces serious charges, and the trial is expected to be closely monitored. Malfoy has not issued any statements, but his involvement hints at a potentially contentious and high-stakes legal battle ahead, one that could have significant implications for future cases.

Hermione's hands trembled as she read it, and her mind raced. She had hoped her situation would remain quiet, that she could disappear into the background of this foreign city, but with this! She could very well end up in Azkaban.