Chương 70: Funeral
Alex spotted a few familiar faces—Emmeline Vance, Mad-Eye Moody, Kingsley Shacklebolt, Barty Crouch, as well as Remus Lupin and Peter Pettigrew. Professors McGonagall and Hagrid were also there, representing Hogwarts.
When the Longbottoms entered, they were met with nods and quiet condolences. Alex noticed Hagrid wiping his eyes with a handkerchief and walked over to Professor McGonagall and Hagrid.
"Alex," Professor McGonagall said softly, "Arthur told us how much you did for the Weasley family. It's truly heartening to see such kindness in someone so young."
Alex shook his head modestly. "Mrs. Weasley is an incredible mother. It was an honor to help them, though I know it will take time for them to fully recover from their grief."
Hagrid sniffled, his voice breaking. "Marlene and the Prewett brothers… they were such good people. Why's it always the best ones?"
Alex placed a comforting hand on Hagrid's arm. "Maybe death is just the start of another journey. The best thing we can do now is be there for the ones still here."
Hagrid nodded, dabbing his eyes, and managed a grateful smile.
Just then, a voice spoke from behind Alex, though he couldn't see anyone. "Wise words, Alex."
Turning around, he saw two familiar figures appear under an Invisibility Cloak—it was James and Lily.
"Lily! James! It's been so long," Alex said, his face lighting up with a warm smile.
Lily smiled back. "We've been keeping a low profile. Dumbledore advised us to stay hidden, and we rarely get the chance to come out. But for this… we had to be here, even if it's under the cloak. It's good to see you again, Alex."
James nodded, looking serious. "There's so much going on, but we couldn't stay away. Marlene, Gideon, Fabian… they were like family."
Seeing James holding the Invisibility Cloak, Alex couldn't help but smile knowingly. "Have you heard from Sirius? Do you think he'll come by today?"
James shook his head. "Sirius visits us sometimes. He's one of the few who knows where we're hiding, but he's been hard to reach lately. I'm not sure if he'll be here."
James then joined Lupin and Peter, greeting his old friends, while Lily moved through the crowd, exchanging warm smiles and greetings. Many hadn't seen the Potters in a long time, and seeing them was a relief.
Soon, Dumbledore and Minister Millicent Bagnold arrived at the cemetery, nodding to those gathered before starting the ceremony. Dumbledore stepped forward to deliver the eulogy.
"Dear friends, we gather here today to say goodbye to our family, friends, and comrades—Marlene McKinnon, Gideon Prewett, and Fabian Prewett."
Dumbledore continued, his voice heavy with sadness.
"They were examples of the highest virtues—kindness, loyalty, and bravery. Their passing has left a deep mark on all of us. They gave their lives to defend the peace of our world. Their courage and sacrifice will not be forgotten."
"I believe their sacrifices will inspire us to continue our stand against the Dark Lord and the Death Eaters. Let us honor their memory by keeping their ideals close and carrying their fight forward."
Dumbledore's words brought tears to many eyes. Molly, who had been holding herself together, couldn't keep from crying. Afterward, Minister Bagnold offered her condolences and announced that the fallen would be honored as heroes. The Weasleys and Marlene's family members expressed their thanks to those present, each mourning in their own way.
During the burial, Alex approached Charles, Marlene's cousin, intending to offer some comfort. But before he could speak, Charles spoke first, his voice filled with anger. "Alex, I know who did this. It was Travers. He threatened my aunt before."
Charles's eyes were red with grief, but Alex could see the anger in him. Placing a hand on his friend's shoulder, Alex said softly, "They'll get what's coming to them, but for now, stay calm."
Charles looked down, his fists clenched tight. "I can't just calm down, Alex. I want revenge."
Alex surprised him by saying, "Then I support your decision. They deserve justice for what they've done."
Charles looked at him, stunned. He'd always seen Alex as calm, composed—the last person he expected to hear these words from.
Alex continued, his voice steady but intense. "It's only natural to want justice for your family. But if you choose this path, you need to be careful. Make sure you're fully prepared and safe. Rushing in without a plan could put your life at risk."
Charles took a shaky breath, the anger in his eyes softening a little as he absorbed Alex's words. He nodded, realizing that Alex wasn't dismissing his feelings but was urging him to be smart about it.
"Think it through," Alex added. "Revenge isn't something you can achieve overnight. You'll need patience. For now, go back to your family. We'll talk more soon."
As Alex turned to leave, he thought about his words. He knew that sometimes, facing problems directly was the only way to keep more harm from happening. And he understood that, as a Muggle-born wizard, he would have many challenges in the magical world.
"It'll take time, Charles," Alex muttered. "But it'll happen."
After the funeral, Alex prepared for the new school year. He made a trip to Diagon Alley to buy supplies and new clothes, as he had grown taller and his robes no longer fit. Now nearly 1.6 meters tall, he felt stronger and more ready. He also stocked up on potion ingredients and bottles, not wanting to rely only on Hogwarts' supplies.
In the days before the new term, Alex visited the Weasleys at the Burrow often. Molly was slowly recovering, and laughter returned to the house as the family began to heal.
Finally, the day arrived for Alex to return to Hogwarts. After a hearty breakfast with the Longbottoms, Frank accompanied him to King's Cross. Frank, on duty at the station that day, would be helping to keep Muggles away from platform nine and three-quarters and clearing any stray memories if needed.
As they reached the platform, Frank smiled warmly. "It's been a pleasure having you with us, Alex. Have a great school year. And if you need a place to spend Christmas, you're always welcome with us."
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