The Marauder's Mess

Words of Warning.

The conclusion of the third task was a blur for both Harry and Brandi. One minute, they were on the field crying with the rest over Cedric's death, the next they were in Moody's office watching him being turned back to his true form in front of them and the real Moody being rescued. 

Now, they sat in Dumbledore's office together, waiting for him to arrive to speak with them after Cedric's funeral.

The service had been beautiful, and barely anyone didn't cry for the boy. He was the pinnacle of a successful, happy student. Everyone knew and admired him, and so everyone was shocked by the sudden death.

Dumbledore had made a speech at the funeral minutes prior, explaining what Harry had seen. He explained that the cup was a portkey, that Voldemort was at large once more, and that he had never fully died due to dark magic we wouldn't yet understand. 

Everyone seemed to understand, but what those affected didn't know, was that once the sorrow from Cedric's death subsided, and once the students went home to their protective parents, opinions would change.

"Are you okay?" Brandi whispered to Harry who had been silent all day.

He nodded slightly. "I will be."

She reached over and grabbed his hand, pulling it into her lap and squeezing it comfortingly. 

"It's okay to be scared, Harry. I'd be worried if you weren't." Brandi whispered, causing Harry to look up at her. "But you know that no matter which way this goes, I'm here with you. You're not alone, Harry."

Before Harry could respond, only having time to send her a grateful yet sad smile, Dumbledore finally returned to his office and sat across from the two students.

"Forgive me for my tardiness. Perhaps this is a silly question, but I must know, how are you two doing?" he asked sweetly, always being so eloquent.

Harry indicated he wasn't up for chit chat, shrugging his shoulders. Brandi took over instead. "As good as can be expected, I think professor," she explained on his behalf.

"Of course. Well I want you two to know that your strife, your situation if you will, I am on your side."

Harry finally spoke up. "Side, professor?"

Dumbledore sighed. "It is my belief that some concerned parents may attempt to sway their children's opinions this summer. You see, accepting that the Dark Lord is back will be extremely difficult to palette for many, given how much pain it caused last time. Fear makes people do irrational things. This is part of the reason I called you both here today."

"So then you think people won't believe Harry?" Brandi asked.

"Believe, that's not for me to guess. But I do not think they will accept it. Denial is a strong thing."

Harry and Brandi shared a look, Harry showing he was exhausted. Emotionally exhausted. The boy had been at the height of controversy all his life, and now he was most likely going to be ostracised for what happened that night, despite how traumatic it was for him as it was.

"I want you two to know that no matter what, the time of day, the situation, my office will always be a safe space for you. My door is open for you both whenever you may need it."

The two sent a grateful smile his way. "Thank you, professor." 

"But onto more pressing matters, I believe we need to talk about the events of that night."

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