Harry Potter and the Path to Power

Chapter IX

It was late in the night when Harry decided he wasn't going to get any sleep without some help. He walked downstairs intending to take the bottle out of the cupboard and have a drink or two.

When he opened the cupboard, however, the bottle was gone. In its place was a note.

Dear Harry,

I've noticed you have been having a drink almost every night since our talk.

I find this highly unfortunate because it means on of two things:

You are either having more nightmares then you led me to believe, in which case we should seek help, or you are abusing the trust I gave you.

In either case, it is time for us to have another talk.

We will have our talk tomorrow night after dinner.

Arthur Weasley.

"Damn!" Harry swore to himself profusely, unconsciously glad that Hermione wasn't around to hear him. Now how was he going to get any sleep?

He could tell the truth; that he couldn't sleep without having a drink because of the thoughts that kept whirling through his head when he was in Ron's room, Ron asleep and nothing else to divert him. And when he did sleep, nightmares woke him up almost at once.

Harry felt an aversion to telling this. They were his problems, and besides, they might send him back to St. Mungo's and that was something he wanted to avoid at any cost, he hated that place even more then the hospital wing at Hogwarts.

He would have to find his own solution.

*****

Morning came none too soon for Harry and he was already sitting at the kitchen table when Mrs. Weasley came down.

"Harry dear, why are you up so early? Couldn't sleep?"

"I slept fine, Mrs. Weasley," he lied. "I'm just a bit tense about the trial so I woke up early."

Harry was glad Mrs. Weasley wasn't looking at him right then, because he doubted he was able to keep the lie from his face.

"What would you like for breakfast, dear? Anything you want." Mrs. Weasley was apparently nervous as well.

"Just some toast and pumpkin juice, please. I'm not really hungry." The nightmares Harry had had during the brief periods of sleep that had overcome him that night had robbed him of his appetite.

"Are you sure, dear? I could make some scrambled eggs if you like. You'll need your strength today." Mrs. Weasley was sounding concerned.

"Good morning, dear." Mr. Weasley stepped into the kitchen. He was one of those people who were in a good mood directly after waking up. It was too bad he hadn't passed it down to Ron, who needed a shower before he was fit to talk to.

"Can I have some scrambled eggs and bacon, dear?"

"Arthur Weasley, you are lucky you're not a Muggle because your arteries would have... oh never mind. Bacon and eggs, coming right up."

*****

The rest of the Weasley family came down one after another. When Harry was done with breakfast, half the scrambled eggs Mrs. Weasley had given him despite his protests were still on his plate.

"Oy, Harry, can I have those?" Ron immediately claimed Harry's plate and started eating the remaining food.

"Ronald Weasley, you can be such a pig at times," Hermione chided. Mrs. Weasley looked as if she couldn't decide between telling Ron off as well, or telling Hermione off for chiding Ron. That was her job.

She finally decided to leave the entire matter be. "Harry dear, better go put on your formal robes. Professor Dumbledore will be here to escort us in about ten minutes."

"It's really not necessary for you and the rest to come, Mrs. Weasley. I'm sure Professor Dumbledore can get me there just fine." Harry had tried to beg off the Weasley family from coming along before. He didn't want them to hear the entire story again. It would only serve to make them more protective and they were just now starting to relent.

"Wouldn't dream of it, dear. Of course we're coming."

"Can't get rid of us that easily, mate," Ron chimed in, trying to put a little humour to the situation. All the members of the Weasley family had similar reactions. Harry knew it was a losing battle and went up to put on his formal robes.

The robes were black. Not black, as his Hogwarts robes had been, but black as the night.

They were also made of a much finer material and it seemed they had been made just for him.

He could get used to clothes like this.

All his life he had worn handed down clothes or school uniforms. Although he now had only two sets of Muggle clothes and one set of robes, they were better than anything he had worn before. He really should get more clothes when they went shopping.

In the box were a black shirt and a pair of black pants as well. Harry thought it was all a bit dark, but when he looked into the mirror he saw that the combination made him look older, which had probably been the intention.

When Harry came down he saw that Bill and Charlie had also arrived.

"Good morning, Harry. Charlie and I figured we'd go to the trial with the family. Percy decided his work at the Ministry was too important and couldn't come along. Can you imagine? Important work... Percy? They have him stuck in the mailroom awaiting 'permanent reassignment'. Oh well, that's our little brother for you." Bill had a big grin on his face.

Apparently the entire Weasley family had decided that Harry needed them at the trial. Or maybe it had been Mrs. Weasley that had decided it for them?

At that moment Dumbledore stepped through the fireplace.

"Good morning, everyone. Oh please, don't get up for an old man; absolutely unnecessary.

Ah Harry, I see you're ready to go. Shall we?"

"Wouldn't you like a cup of tea before we go, Professor?" Mrs. Weasley interjected.

"Tempting as that sounds Molly, no thank you. I take it you are all coming along then?

Well we mustn't be late."

Dumbledore took a little box from his robes. "This is restricted access Floo powder. It will give us access to the fireplace of the prosecution councillor.

Just say 'Ally Fish's office' when you step through. Bill and Charlie, I think you first? Then you, Molly, and then Arthur. Followed by Fred, George, Ron, Hermione and Ginny. Last will be Harry and I."

Harry was somehow reminded of a movie he had once seen when the Dursleys had been away for the afternoon. The order in which everyone was going through seemed strategic to him, just as in the movie. There the main character had first sent in a strong reconnaissance force, followed by a strong backup. Then the most vulnerable people, followed by a strong rear.

"Oh no, Ginny is not coming. She's much too young to go to a trial." Mrs. Weasley was clearly upset that Dumbledore had included Ginny.

"But Mum..."

"No buts, young lady. That trial is no place for you. Think of all the things you might hear there."

"While you had to be taken from the room, I heard Harry's entire story. If anyone should not be going, it's you, Mother." Ginny's face was now growing red with fury.

At first Mrs. Weasley didn't know what to say, she opened and closed her mouth in silence, like a fish out of the water. Harry had never seen her so angry before.

Just as she was about to say something, Mr. Weasley intervened: "Virginia Weasley, you will do what your mother says and there will be no further discussion. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, father," Ginny said, she was now looking at her shoes, clearly ashamed of her words.

Apparently Mr. Weasley didn't order his children often, but when he did, he was obeyed.

"I'll go to the neighbours then," she said with the haughtiness and anger returned to her voice. She turned around and left the kitchen, not even bothering to say goodbye to anyone.

"Well, I never..." Mrs. Weasley started.

"Now dear, we all know how emotional this whole thing is. We should make allowances." Mr. Weasley was whispering to his wife now, but because of his position, Harry could hear him clearly.

"Well, shall we?" At these words the mood in the room broke and everyone once more looked at Dumbledore.

Bill went through the fireplace first, followed by Charlie. The rest followed one by one.

Eventually only Harry and Dumbledore were left.

"Now Harry, I don't know if you have to testify today, that's up to the Councillor and the Magistrate. If you have to testify, just tell the truth; it is more than enough.

What I do know is that Vernon Dursley will be there, please try to remain calm. Alright?"

Harry only nodded.

"Then let us depart."

Harry took some Floo powder from the box, threw it in the fire and yelled "Ally Fish's office".

*****

Harry stepped out of a fireplace in a beautiful office. Its walls were covered with bookcases filled with leather tomes. There was a large oak desk that dominated the room. Behind it was a leather chair and in that chair was... something of a disappointment.

Harry expected this office to be occupied by an important looking, elderly man.

Instead, a small woman sat in the chair. Her face had fine lines and its most noticeable feature was the sharp nose.

When she stood Harry saw that even he towered over this woman, she was as small as he had been prior to the summer holidays. She was wearing a sand coloured robe that matched her hair.

"Mr. Potter, how nice to finally meet you. I'm Ally Fish, councillor for the prosecution."

"Pleased to meet you, Miss Fish," Harry responded. Somehow he didn't think she was married. He was not corrected.

"If I could speak to Mr. Potter in private?" Ally Fish showed the Weasleys, Dumbledore and Hermione to the door.

"Please, sit down, Mr. Potter."

Harry sat in comfortable leather chair. Ally Fish took the chair behind her desk again.

"I have here a deposition as given to me by Albus Dumbledore. It is his report of events as described by you. Would you be so kind as to read it and tell me if there should be any adjustments? If not, please sign it so it can be entered into the trial records as your statement."

While Harry was reading the deposition he was aware of Ms. Fish's eyes on him, she was observing him.

"This is what happened." Harry stated simply.

"Then would you be so kind as to sign it, Mr. Potter?" Ally Fish handed him a quill.

"Please call me Harry, Mr. Potter is what my professors call me."

"Only if you call me Ally," Ally's face had undergone a complete change, she was now smiling. "And here I thought you would be so high on your own fame you'd be an arrogant git."

"To tell you the truth, I hate my fame. And you say what you think don't you?" Harry had to smile at the brutal honesty.

"Only outside of the courtroom, Harry. Inside the courtroom I can be as smooth as glass.

Now let us be totally honest. I need to know if you feel up to testifying today. If you don't, we can put it off till tomorrow."

After some hesitation Harry answered: "I feel up to testifying. I want to see Vernon behind bars. He must not be permitted to harm anyone else." After these words Harry's voice began to waver and he stared at his shoes. "I'm not sure though, how I will react to the presence of my uncle."

Harry felt shame at his cowardice. He was sure the disgust would be visible in Ally's eyes and therefore didn't dare look up.

"Harry," her voice was surprisingly soft; Harry's eyes went up to hers, "there is nothing to be ashamed of. After what that man did to you I would only be worried if you felt nothing.

If you don't feel up to testifying today, just say so, now or during the proceedings. There is one thing you have to remember though: Once you start your testimony, you can't stop. It would make a bad impression.

I wouldn't worry too much, chances are, we won't get around to your testimony today."

Harry nodded.

"We'd better get going; the proceedings are due to start in fifteen minutes.

I heard that there was a flock of reporters in and around the building. You'd better prepare for that."

When Ally and Harry left Ally's office the rest were waiting for them.

"I'll see you in the courtroom, Harry; I have to enter together with the Magistrate and the councillor for the defence."

As Ally left, Dumbledore put a hand on Harry's shoulder.

"Don't worry, Harry, she might be a bit different, but she's as good as they come.

I suggest we head towards the courtroom now."

With Dumbledore as his guide Harry made his way towards the courtroom. They had a flock of redheads and one girl with bushy brown hair trailing them.

When they entered the hall before the courtroom it was packed with reporters who swooped in on Harry and company birds of prey.

"Mr. Potter, a few questions please."

"Harry, a moment please."

Immediately the Weasleys and Hermione formed a wall between Harry and the reporters. Dumbledore kept an assuring hand on Harry's shoulder and Harry had the feeling he was using magic to keep him calm.

"Mr. Potter, do you hate your uncle?"

"Harry, what do you think will happen here today?"

"Harry, do you think Vernon Dursley should get the Dementor's kiss?"

"Hermione, are you here today to support your boyfriend and does this mean you've broken up with Victor Krum?"

"Mr. Potter, how is your mental health?"

"Mr. Dumbledore, is it true that Harry Potter is your illegitimate great-grandson?"

"Mr. Weasley, are you here as an official representative of the ministry?"

"Harry..."

When the doors to the courtroom closed behind the group the yelling faded.

The room was already filled with people. A large number of the group were obviously reporters, but they knew better then to shout questions or bother a witness, chances were they would be removed.

On the front row several chairs had been reserved.

"I see you counted on us, Albus." Mr. Weasley said in a somewhat muted voice.

"The prerogative of an old man and teacher, Arthur," Dumbledore said, smiling.

The room was much longer than it was wide and at the far end, only a few meters before the front end, was a large, heavy desk, slightly elevated. In the front of the desk a symbol was engraved; a book crossed with a wand.

Behind the desk was another door.

To the left side of the desk was a chair that had several clasps on it.

To the sides were two smaller desks, both at a forty-five degree angle with the middle desk. Just in front of the first row was a single chair, facing the middle desk

On the far wall was a portrait of a very grim looking Cornelius Fudge, the effect was lost however, by the green suit and bowler hat the minister was wearing.

At either side of the portrait there were words engraved into the wall. They said: 'The law is the highest science' and 'The law is not justice'.

When everyone had taken a seat, Harry was sitting in the middle with Ron and Hermione to either side. He felt like almost every eye in the room was on him, and he was probably right.

Harry addressed Dumbledore, who was sitting next to Hermione: "Professor, this looks nothing like the court room I saw in your uhm..."

"In my Pensive, Mr. Potter. You may say it.

You are quite correct. Those were different times. Back then there was a need for greater security at these kinds of things, and the proceedings were different as well.

Back then almost no one was brave enough to convict a Death Eater on his or her own. The chance of retaliation was just too great. Therefore a council of law was convened and they decided the fate of the accused. These days, that is no longer necessary. The verdict lies with the presiding Magistrate.

You could compare him with a Muggle judge, but his powers are much broader. His prime obligation is to get the truth out, and he make take a large scale of measures to make sure. One of them is the use of Veritaserum, although the laws on that subject are both strict and ambiguous."

After several minutes a man dressed in black robes stepped in.

"All please rise for Magistrate Mundungus Fletcher, Councillor Ally Fish for the prosecution and Councillor Charles McDourn for the defence."

Through the door behind the middle desk a man appeared. He was followed by Ally and then another man.

When all three were positioned behind their desks, Ally to the right hand side of the Magistrate, the man to his left hand side, the Magistrate spoke: "Please be seated."

His voice was deep and warm with a bit of impatience.

The Magistrate had lightly greying hair that had originally been black; his build was powerful, like that of a professional wrestler.

His face bore lines of worry and responsibility but his eyes were very much alive, they seemed to be looking straight through you. His attire had obviously been put on last minute and was somewhat wrinkly.

The man to his left hand side was almost his exact opposite. The man had blond hair and a slender build. His face was pretty rather than handsome, and his eyes were a cool grey.

The robes he wore were immaculate and clearly of high quality. Harry was reminded of Malfoy. This was the councillor for the defence.

"Professor, isn't Mundungus Fletcher a..."

"Yes Harry, Mundungus is a friend of mine. I have to tell you though, that friendship will not in any way influence his judgement. Mundungus is honest to the point of being flawed.

"This court is now in session.

Before the judgement of this office is brought Vernon Dursley, Adept. Please bring in the accused."

The door through which Harry had entered opened and Vernon Dursley was brought in by two large wizards, one holding some kind of leash that was connected to Vernon's neck; the other had his wand trained on Vernon.

Vernon was escorted to the front of the courtroom and placed in the chair.

"Because of his violent behaviour and the nature of the accusation the accused will now be restrained." And with a wave of the Magistrate's wand the clasps on the chair closed over Vernon's legs and arms.

The emotions playing on Vernon's face were everything ranging from deep-seated fear and panic to hate and loathing, each following the other so quickly it was hard to tell the difference.

"You can't keep me here. You don't have the right. I'm a citizen of the United Kingdom and I have rights.

KEEP AWAY FROM ME, YOU FREAKS."

"I assure you, Mr. Dursley, that this court has every right to judge you for your alleged crimes and that it is fully recognized and upheld by Her Majesty's government of the United Kingdom. If there are no further objections..." The magistrate's monotone voice was now interrupted by Vernon Dursley's high pitch squeal.

"I demand a lawyer!"

"You have a 'lawyer' Mr. Dursley, Mr McDourn is councillor for the defence and will represent you." The magistrate was beginning to show signs of agitation.

"I want a real lawyer, not one of you freaks. What do you..."

"Silencio."

"Let it be noted in the records that I have silenced the accused for the good of these proceedings. Any objections?" The magistrate's voice was now monotone again.

"I would like to enter into the records that Vernon Dursley has had very little prior experience with our world and that this should be seen as extenuating circumstances." The defence councillor's voice was as smooth as his face.

"So noted." The magistrate continued: "let it be known to all present that Vernon Dursley stands accused of the torture of Harry Potter, also known as the Boy Who Lived. This torture was conducted in part by means of a wand."

"The Prosecution would like to introduce the wand in question as evidence at this time," Ally said.

"Objection, My Lord, Priori Incantatum has clearly shown that the last spell preformed by this wand was a simple locking spell. There is no direct evidence that this wand was used for anything else," the smooth voice of the defence councillor came.

"My Lord, I have here the sworn testimony of Remus Lupin that he saw Vernon Dursley use this wand as a means of torture and that he himself removed this wand from Dursley's hand.

Furthermore, I have here a sworn statement from Mr. Ollivander of Ollivander Wands that this is in fact Mr. Potter's wand.

Finally, I have here Mr. Potter's sworn statement concerning the use of that wand. All these statements have been noted in the trial records. All three are available to testify if so desired," Ally countered.

"My Lord, these are testimonies made by a known werewolf and an underage boy whose mental health is in question."

"Objection overruled. The wand may be entered as evidence.

Councillor McDourn, I must warn you against making judgements for which you are not qualified. Please refrain from questioning Mr. Potter's mental health except in the presence of an expert witness.

The prosecution may make its opening statement." The Magistrate's voice made clear that he would accept no argument.

Ally stood and began:

"The prosecution will show that Vernon Dursley is indeed guilty of the torture by magical means of Harry Potter. We will furthermore show that this torture was of such a nature and extended period of time that its like has seldom been recorded in recent history. The nature of this crime is all the more heinous if you take into account that the only purpose of said torture was the personal pleasure of Vernon Dursley.

The prosecution will demand life imprisonment at the wizard's prison of Azkaban." Ally used her voice like an instrument, stressing certain words so as to make the accusation all the more terrible.

"The defence may make its opening statement," the unemotional voice of the Magistrate sounded. Harry wondered if the man felt anything at all.

He himself had wanted to run from the room every time the crime had been mentioned.

Hermione had gripped his hand when McDourn had made the allegations about his mental health and Harry found a little comfort and courage there.

McDourn stood just as Ally had done, but before he started he smooth his robes, which where already flawless.

"The defence will clearly show that Vernon Dursley is not to be blamed for any alleged harm done to Mr. Potter. We will clearly show that Mr. Dursley, who is an upstanding member of the Muggle community, is not capable of magic. We will further show that any non-magical harm done to Mr. Potter has been done under extenuating circumstances.

He was provoked," at this last statement a murmur with a strong sense of outrage filled the room. "He was provoked by none other than Harry Potter."

The murmur now changed in tone and volume. Anger was clear on several faces, and Ron looked like he wanted to kill McDourn.

"Silence, SILENCE!" the magistrate roared, "if this courtroom is not silent I will cast a silencing spell." Slowly the crowd settled down.

"The prosecution may present its case."

"The prosecution calls its first witness, Doctor A. Windsor."

A man rose from the audience and walked to the front, once there he sat in the chair.

The Magistrate intoned: "Do you vow to speak truthfully before this office, to speak no lies and to withhold no truths?"

"I do," the doctor said.

"Does the prosecution or the defence feel there is a necessity for Veritaserum?"

"No, My Lord," both councillors replied in solemn voices.

"This office sees no need for Veritaserum. Let it be so noted in the records. The prosecution may begin."

"Please state your name and occupation for the record." Ally began.

"Windsor, Alexander. Doctor at St. Mungo's Hospital, specializing in magical trauma."

"Doctor, are you qualified to make judgements about magical injuries, especially magical torture?"

"Yes."

"Does the defence agree?" the Magistrate asked.

"The defence has no objection."

"Did you examine Mr. Potter after his condition had been discovered?"

"Yes."

"In your expert opinion, was Mr. Potter's condition due to torture by magical means?"

"Beyond any doubt."

"Would you please describe the nature and severity of Mr. Potter's condition?"

As the Doctor began to detail the extent of Harry's condition, Harry's own attention wavered.

For the first time in a week, at least from Harry's point of view, he was in the same room as Vernon. Harry saw that Vernon was looking straight at him, his eyes filled with hate.

Determined not to be the one to look away first, Harry kept eye contact. He was reminded of all the times he had seen those eyes filled with the same hate.

The times they had been filled with ecstasy, while he was hurting him.

Anger filled Harry.

He felt something inside him stir. It roared upwards searching for a way out. Remembering Dumbledore's admonishments, Harry tried to keep it under control.

He could not help it flashing in his eyes though, and suddenly Vernon Dursley was as white as a bed sheet, and the vile man quickly averted his eyes.

"Calm yourself, Harry." It was Dumbledore. Harry sensed the anger and magic being drained away and felt its loss. He returned his attention to the proceedings.

"Doctor Windsor," it was now McDourn's turn, "are you an expert on mental health?"

"Please be more specific in your question councillor McDourn. There is no such thing as an expert on mental health," Dr. Windsor replied with a condescending smile.

"Let me rephrase then. Are you qualified to make any judgements about the effects of torture by magical means, as you and councillor Fish have described, on a person's mind?"

"Yes, I am."

"What would be the most likely outcome of torture given the extent and nature you have just described?"

"Death."

"And barring death?"

Here Dr. Windsor hesitated. He knew exactly where this line of questioning was going; he had seen it before.

"The most likely outcome barring death would be insanity, but I assure you Mr. Potter is not insane."

"How can you be sure? According to your deposition -that has, by the way, been entered into the trial records, My Lord- you did not have time to examine Mr. Potter fully. He was taken away prematurely by Albus Dumbledore.

My Lord, the defence moves that there is reasonable doubt concerning the mental health of Mr. Potter and his testimony should therefore be disregarded."

"I shall keep it under advisement. A ruling on this matter will be postponed until I see fit, let it be so noted."

The Magistrate let his gaze wander towards Harry. Being accused of mental instability was not doing wonders for Harry's self-confidence, but he met the Magistrate's eyes and forced himself to keep calm.

"I have no further questions, My Lord." McDourn gracefully took his seat.

"Does the prosecution have any questions?"

"Only two, My Lord. Dr. Windsor, in the time you were able observe Mr. Potter, did you detect any physical brain damage?"

"No."

"And did you or your staff observe any behaviour that might lead you to think Mr. Potter is not mentally healthy?"

"No."

"Depositions of all the staff on Mr. Potter's ward have been entered into the trial record. They are all in accordance with Dr. Windsor's statement on this matter."

"So noted, the prosecution may call its next witness after lunch." The first testimony had taken all morning, Harry had barely noticed.

*****

The next witness was Mr. Ollivander.

His testimony was clearly a pre-emptive strike by Ally. She wanted to make sure McDourn would not be able to stress the fact that there was no sign that the wand had been used for dark magic, which torture certainly was.

Mr. Ollivander was followed by several investigators and Aurors. They described the investigation of the crime scene (or alleged crime scene as McDourn stated) in great detail and gave a list of physical evidence they had found, including Harry's blood.

One of the Aurors stated: "We all know what happened to the Longbottoms. What Mr. Potter went through was just as bad and much longer. I would like to say I have the greatest admiration for his strength and his courage. No one else would have survived, let alone be here today.

I saw Mr. Potter before he was transported to St. Mungo's and saw what had been done to him. This monster," and with that he pointedly looked at Vernon, "can not be considered human and therefore should be killed like the rabid dog he is."

"I object, My Lord. This kind of talk has no place in a courtroom, and certainly not about a man whose guilt is far from proven," McDourn called out dramatically.

*****

The last witness of the day was Remus Lupin. He described what he had found when he

floo-ed to Privet Drive.

How he had tied up Vernon Dursley, taken the wand from his hand and called for help for Harry.

McDourn tried to discredit Remus' testimony.

"Mr. Lupin, how can you be sure it was this wand," and with that he showed the room Harry's wand, "that you took from Mr. Dursley? One wand looks much like another if you don't know it."

"I was Harry's teacher for a year and tutored him on occasion, he is my late, best friend's son and that is not the most usual of wands. I know it, Mr. McDourn, without a doubt."

"Mr. Lupin you are a known Werewolf, surely you must admit..."

Lupin interrupted: "I am a Werewolf only three nights a month, Mr. McDourn, I fail to see how it would have any effect on this matter."

McDourn tried to argue with Lupin on this point but the Magistrate intervened.

"Councillor McDourn, it is not Mr. Lupin who is on trial here. His record is spotless and there will be no further implications made. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, My Lord." McDourn made a few more attempts to discredit Lupin but the Werewolf line had clearly been his main attack.

*****

"This court will be in recess until tomorrow morning. The prosecution has informed me that we will then hear the testimony of Mr. Potter. He shall be the last witness for the prosecution barring unforeseen circumstances. The defence shall begin its case the day after. Court dismissed."

They waited till most of the room had emptied. Magistrate Fletcher and Councillor McDourn went out the door they had entered through. Ally, however, approached the group.

"I'll escort you to my office; you can use the fireplace there.

I need to have a short talk with Harry as well."

When they left the courtroom there were still a few reporters there. The Weasleys once again formed up around Harry, making sure no reporter got to him. Harry was actually getting used to the continuous barrage of questions, although he doubted he would ever find them normal. He was at least now able to ignore them.

"Reporters, they're all bad news," Hermione muttered.

She was walking next to Harry.

"Whatever did you do with Rita Skeeter anyway? I saw she was writing again."

"Well, I released her. I didn't have time for her once you... well, I released her anyway, after she promised not to write anymore slander. I read her articles and they're borderline, but she doesn't make any unfounded accusations and the questions she poses are genuine."

"She questioned my sanity," Harry said in a cold voice.

"I know, Harry, and although I don't doubt it, it is a legitimate question after what happened to you. I like it as little as you, but we have to remain fair."

"I say we turn her in." Harry's tone was tinged with vengefulness.

"I'm not sure. If we do, we might lose a valuable resource. Think what we could do with our information on her. Maybe we should talk to Dumbledore about it."

At that moment they arrived at Ally's office.

The Weasleys, with the exception of Fred and George, used her fireplace to Floo back to the Burrow. Fred and George ran off just before their mother stepped through the fireplace. "We forgot something, be home in about half an hour."

"Fred, George you come to the Burrow now or..." were the only words Mrs. Weasley got out before she disappeared.

"Hope she got home okay," Ron said and followed.

Hermione stayed behind at Ally's request.

"Now, Harry, there are some things we need to talk about," Ally began. "Tomorrow you'll be testifying and I can assure you that McDourn will do anything in his power to discredit your testimony. His tactic is clear in this case. He can't disprove Dursley's guilt so he will try to create as much confusion as possible, hence making it almost impossible for the Magistrate to come to a clear decision.

The only thing you have to do is keep a cool head, give straight and simple answers and try to appear as sane as possible."

"Appear sane?" Harry asked, a hint of anger in his voice.

"Oh Harry, you know what Ms. Fish means. You've heard what McDourn said earlier and how he treated Professor... I mean, Remus, he was absolutely terrible," Hermione admonished.

"She's quite right, Harry. But what you have to remember is this: You have the public opinion in your favour. If you can keep calm while McDourn is being an ass," at this profanity by Ally, Hermione gave her a withering glare while Harry had a small smile, "you will score a lot of points with both the Magistrate and the public."

Ally now turned to Hermione. "Now for the reason I asked you to stay, Hermione. It may be necessary to have a character witness for Harry. Even though you're a minor, your record is spotless and your reputation as the smartest witch in Hogwarts for over a century precedes you. Most importantly, you know Harry best."

"Why not let Ron testify then? He's Harry's other best friend," Hermione asked.

"Well, first of all, he doesn't have your reputation. Second is: I know the Weasley temper. I went to Hogwarts with Bill, although I doubt he remembers me, I was a Ravenclaw.

Thirdly, he isn't Harry's boy- or girlfriend, you are."

"No I'm not.

Honestly, why people believe anything Rita Skeeter writes I will never understand. Harry and I are just good friends."

Ally gave Harry a questioning look, Harry only nodded.

"You're not his girlfriend?" Ally asked Hermione.

"No," both answered simultaneously.

"Are you sure? I mean, it was in the papers last year. And I saw you two holding hands during session."

"That story was a lie. And Harry is my friend; I think I can hold his hand if he needs me without it meaning anything." Hermione blushed.

"Well... it doesn't actually matter. Maybe it's even better. A girlfriend wouldn't be seen as unbiased. Besides, we don't have to stress it that much..."

Harry gave Ally a glare that clearly impressed his thoughts about lying on this subject.

Ally thought it better to change the subject.

"Tomorrow you have the afternoon off. I don't think Harry's testimony will last more than a few hours and Hermione's testimony, if any, shouldn't last more than half an hour. I'll see you then."

With that she walked Harry and Hermione to the fireplace.

Hermione took a pinch of Floo powder from an elegant golden box.

She yelled: "The Burrow," and disappeared.

"Try to get a good night's sleep tonight, Harry. Oh, one more thing. If you plan to go to Diagon Alley, tomorrow or any other day for that matter, you might want to disguise yourself a bit. Until this trial is over you are very much in the public's interest. You will be recognized and people will want to talk to you. Think about it."

"See you tomorrow morning, Ally." Harry threw Floo powder into the fire and stepped through while yelling: "The Burrow."