Chương 155: A Wolf's Farewell
Yo,
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Broken Shackles
Chapter 32
A Wolf's Farewell
21st April 1994
Minister office
Ministry of Magic
In the Ministry of Magic's grand meeting chamber, a room filled with elegant arches and glowing emblems of wizarding nations, an air of tension weighed heavy as Minister Cornelius Fudge prepared to convene a holographic meeting with representatives of the International Confederation of Wizards (ICW).
Despite his best efforts to hush up the matter, the incident with the Dementors at Hogwarts a week ago sent ripples through the wizarding world, and the ICW summoned Fudge to discuss the matter.
The lights dimmed as Fudge activated the magical device. Holographic images of ICW representatives flickered into view, each one seated at a desk in their respective countries. The representatives were a varied group, each possessing a unique air of authority.
First came Madame Zéphyrine Moreau, the European representative from France, stern and dignified, her eyes glinting with intelligence and disappointment at the Minister in front of her.
Next to her, Ambassador Jengo Chisulo, representing the African wizarding community, is looking wise and unyielding, his face resonant with conviction.
Next to him appeared Councillor Li Xiu Ying, the representative from the Asian wizarding community, calm and thoughtful, her expression inscrutable.
Fudge sweated slightly as he saw them. They represent the 3 neighbouring regions of Britain. The ICW is made of representatives from all member nations. With 1 member representing The Asian, African, European, Southern and American regions.
As the incident concerns the 3 regions around Britain, only 3 representatives were convened for the meeting. Fudge knew if the 2 others also joined, he would be screwed.
Suppressing his anxiety, he began, "Esteemed representatives of the ICW, I assure you that we are doing everything in our power to understand and rectify the Dementor incident at Hogwarts. The situation is—"
Madame Moreau interrupted, her voice sharp, "Minister Fudge, this incident has exposed a significant failure in your handling of the Dementors. The ICW has repeatedly questioned your Ministry's old-rooted ways and your Ministry has repeatedly denied any recommendations. This is unacceptable. Hogwarts is not just any school; it is a symbol of our shared magical heritage."
As the ICW has strong translation spells weaved into the projecting device itself, all members can understand what the speakers are saying as if they are speaking in their native language making it easier for all members to understand what's being discussed.
Fudge's face turned a shade redder as he replied, "Madame Moreau, I understand your concern, but I believe the real issue at hand is the presence of Sirius Black." He said, surprising the representatives. "He's the one who has forced us to employ the Dementors. It's his actions that have brought this upon us."
Ambassador Chisulo's deep voice boomed, "Minister, blaming Sirius Black does not excuse the lack of oversight and control. And there was no proof of his presence in the area, is there? It is your responsibility to ensure that the safety measures in place are foolproof."
Councillor Li Xiu Ying added, her voice calm but firm, "We need actions, Minister, not excuses. You are throwing everything on Mr Black, what if he is proven innocent of all charges? Who will you throw the blame on? What we want is to know any actions that will be taken to ensure such an incident does not repeat?" Her words echoed through the meeting chamber, every word cutting Fudge's defences like a hot knife through butter.
Fudge stumbled over his words for a moment before regaining composure. "W-we are working closely with the Department of Magical Creature Control, and we are conducting a thorough investigation. We have also replaced the affected Dementors, and I will personally oversee additional security measures."
The representatives exchanged glances, their holographic images flickering with uncertainty.
Madame Moreau finally spoke, "Minister Fudge, we expect a detailed report on the incident and the measures being implemented in the next ICW full session. The ICW will be monitoring the situation closely. This incident and the orchestrator pose a dangerous threat to the Magical world because of the mystery of it."
Fudge nodded, his face pale, "You will have it, Madame Moreau. I assure you, we are taking this matter very seriously." After one more glance at each other, the representatives nodded.
Soon the meeting concluded with formalities, but the tension lingered. Fudge is left to ponder the gravity of the situation, knowing that the eyes of the international wizarding community are upon him, and his actions in the coming days will be critical. The blame game has failed, and he needs to rise to the occasion to restore confidence in his leadership both in Magical Britain and the Wizarding community at large.
28th April 1994
Hogwarts
The subdued lights of the hospital wing cast a gentle glow as Remus Lupin slowly blinked his eyes open. His head throbbed painfully, and his body felt heavy, as if weighed down by invisible chains. The scent of antiseptics and the faint rustle of Madam Pomfrey's robes told him where he was.
"Lupin?" came the matronly voice of the Hogwarts nurse, a mixture of concern and relief in her tone. "Can you hear me? You've been unconscious for quite some time."
Lupin tried to respond, but his throat was dry, and the words won't come. He managed a faint nod, his mind foggy and disoriented. Images and sensations flashing through his thoughts, disjointed and fragmented. A wolf, a scream and a fight– but nothing made sense.
"Here, drink this," Madame Pomfrey said, helping him sit up and offering a glass of water.
Lupin drank greedily, the cool liquid soothing his parched throat. As he handed the glass back, he finally found his voice, though it came out weak and raspy. "What happened? I remember the wolf, but after that…"
Madam Pomfrey's face tightened, her eyes clouded with worry. "You were gravely injured, Remus. The wolf as you say or rather, someone, did something to you. You've been in a coma for Two weeks."
Lupin's heart skipped a beat. Two weeks? He struggled to process the information, his mind still sluggish. "Someone? Who is it? What did they do to me?"
Madam Pomfrey shook her head, her lips pressed into a thin line. "We don't know exactly. Dumbledore and others have been working tirelessly to figure it out. All we know is that it wasn't an ordinary night, and the incident left you in this state."
Lupin's brow furrowed as he tried to recall the events leading up to such an incident. Fragments of memories danced at the edges of his mind, elusive and teasing. A sense of dread settled in his stomach as he realised how little he understood about what had happened.
"Was I obliviated?" he asked, his voice trembling. Madam Pomfrey's sad nod is the only reply she can give.
"Anyone else hurt?" Accepting that his memories were tampered with, he asked the next question that came to his mind.
"No, you are the only one," Madam Pomfrey assured him. "But you gave us all a scare. You'll need time to recover, and there may be lingering effects we don't yet understand. With the full moon approaching, things are going to be tough." She gave a sad sigh.
Lupin's thoughts whirled, questions and fears mingling with confusion and uncertainty. The world around him seemed suddenly alien and dangerous, filled with shadows and unknown threats. The wolf, and the scream, are a mystery. He sat there pondering about anything else he could remember of the night.
The news of Lupin's awakening spread through the Hogwarts staff like a ripple on a still pond, reaching every corner of the castle. Professors who had been worried and distressed for the past Two weeks now found themselves filled with relief and anticipation. They eagerly made their way to the hospital wing to see their colleague and friend.
Madam Pomfrey, ever the guardian of her patients, met the assembled professors at the door of the hospital wing. Her eyes are firm but understanding. "He's awake, but very weak and disoriented. Please, keep your visit brief and don't press him too hard for answers. His recovery is just beginning."
They all nodded, their faces reflecting a mixture of concern, curiosity, and hope.
Professor McGonagall is the first to approach Lupin's bedside, her usually stern face softened with genuine affection. "Remus," she said gently, "it's good to see you awake."
Lupin looked up, his eyes clouded with confusion. He seemed to recognize her, but his expression was distant, his thoughts clearly elsewhere. "Minerva," he said slowly, his voice still weak. "What happened? The wolf, the scream... it's all so foggy."
Professor Flitwick, standing on a stack of books to peer over the bed, chimed in, his high-pitched voice filled with concern. "We're all quite puzzled, Remus. But don't worry yourself about that now. The important thing is that you're on the mend."
Lupin's eyes flicked from face to face, landing on Hagrid, who is holding back tears of joy. Snape stood at a distance, his arms crossed and his expression inscrutable. Dumbledore is absent, still working on unravelling the mystery of the night he assumed.
"I don't understand," Lupin murmured, his brow furrowing as he struggled to articulate his thoughts. "The wolf, the scream, and a fight? It's all a jumble. I can't make sense of it."
The room fell silent as the professors exchanged worried glances. Whatever happened during that night left Lupin not only physically wounded but mentally scattered as well.
Dumbledore's voice suddenly filled the room, coming from the entrance of the Hospital Wing. "Remus, my dear boy, I'm glad you're awake. We're working on understanding what happened, but for now, rest and recover. The answers will come in time."
Lupin's eyes met Dumbledore's and saw an understanding and accepting one which made him nod, trusting the Headmaster to unravel the mystery, but his eyes still held the deep, weary confusion. At Madam Pomfrey's insistence, others said their goodbyes, each one touched by the visible struggle Lupin was facing.
As they left the hospital wing, their conversation turned to theories and concerns about the incident, but behind all the words was a lingering unease. Lupin's condition is a stark reminder of the unknown forces at play, and the path to understanding seemed filled with shadows and uncertainties.
What happened on the night to make Lupin like this? What did it mean? And what would it take to heal not only his body but his fractured mind?
The questions hung in the air, unanswered and foreboding, as the professors returned to their duties, their thoughts never straying far from their friend in the hospital wing and the mysteries that surrounded him.
After the professors left the hospital wing, Dumbledore made his way to the bed, his long robes billowing behind him as he walked with purpose. His face is lined with both relief at Lupin's awakening and concern for the questions that lingered in the air.
Madam Pomfrey briefed him on Lupin's condition and mental disorientation. Dumbledore nodded his understanding and moved towards the bed where Lupin lay, still looking very frail.
"Remus," Dumbledore greeted warmly, his eyes twinkling but serious. "I am pleased to see you awake. How do you feel?" Though he wanted to leave the shabby man to recover, Dumbledore didn't have the luxury.
"Confused, Headmaster," Lupin replied, his voice weak but earnest. "I don't understand what happened. The last thing I remember is a scream, the wolf, and then darkness."
Dumbledore took a seat by Lupin's bedside, his expression compassionate. "I know this is all very bewildering, Remus. Let me explain what we know so far."
He went on to detail the events that transpired after Lupin had gone unconscious, including the immediate response of the staff, the Ministry's involvement, and the news coverage by the Daily Prophet.
"The incident has become quite the mystery," Dumbledore continued, his voice tinged with frustration. "The Dementors were found half-frozen, and the Department of Magical Creature Control is at a loss to explain why. The incident of the night has raised many questions as well. Rita Skeeter has, of course, added her own flair to the situation, casting shadows and doubts wherever she can."
Lupin's eyes widened as he took in the information. "The Dementors... frozen? I'm sure I didn't see any Dementor approaching me, headmaster."
Dumbledore sighed, his hand stroking his long beard. "That is what we are trying to determine, Remus. It seems as if dark and unknown forces are at play. Your injuries are central to this mystery, but the answers are elusive. Frozen Dementors are another matter that's ringing alarms in many places." He said in disappointment at his inability to understand what was going on in his Castle.
He leaned closer, his eyes locking with Lupin's. "I need you to rest and recover, Remus. In time, perhaps your memories of the incident will become clearer, and you can help us unravel this puzzle."
Lupin nodded negatively, his face filled with uncertainty and concern. "If Obliviation is involved, I'm sure I can't be of any help in this, Albus. But I'll do whatever I can. But it all feels so distant, like a dream."
Though users of strong magic like Dumbledore can undo Obliviation, in the case of Remus Lupin it's particularly difficult as his Inner Werewolf may attack anyone attempting and as it is Lupin's mind, he can't help much as anything going out of hand will not only endanger Lupin, but also the caster because of the intricacies of the Mind.
That's why Dumbledore didn't even try Legillimancy on Lupin or attempt to undo the Obliviation. Dumbledore did understand the person responsible is strong as he managed to overwhelm Lupin's inner wolf and do it. Which only rang even more alarms for the old Headmaster.
"Patience, my friend," Dumbledore said softly, patting Lupin's hand. "We will get to the bottom of this. But for now, your health is our primary concern."
With that, he stood, casting one more thoughtful glance at Lupin ready to leave the Hospital wing.
The restless look in Lupin's eyes, made Dumbledore pause at the door of the hospital wing and turn back to face him. His eyes, always keen and observant, saw that Lupin's mind was troubled by something more than his physical condition.
"Remus?" Dumbledore inquired, his voice gentle and concerned.
Lupin's eyes flickered with uncertainty, and he finally asked, his voice tinged with apprehension, "Harry... and Sirius. Are they safe? What's happened to them?"
Dumbledore's expression softened, and he approached Lupin's bedside once more. "Harry is safe, Remus. He's been facing some challenges as Ravenclaw's Quidditch captain, with the cancellation of the final match and the Cup will be awarded to Ravenclaw. But he's handled it all with the maturity and grace we've come to expect from him."
A sigh of relief escaped Lupin's lips, but his eyes still held a trace of worry. "And Sirius?" However much he may despise Sirius for killing Lily and James, he is still the lone wolf's first friends and in the deepest of his heart, Lupin still held to an ember of hope that Sirius is innocent in all this.
Dumbledore's eyes dimmed slightly. "We are still unaware of his whereabouts. I've investigated the angle of Sirius entering the grounds and attracting the Dementors and doing something to you and the Dementors. But it all seemed far-fetched to happen in practicality.
"And the school Wards didn't detect any new presence on the night to support such a theory," Dumbledore said with a downcast look.
Lupin's brow furrowed as he tried to grasp something just beyond his reach. "I feel like there's something else, Albus. Something important that I should remember."
Dumbledore placed a reassuring hand on Lupin's shoulder. "You were involved in a severe incident, Remus, and with a clinical confirmation that a strong memory charm is used, it's natural for your memories to be a bit muddled. Don't force it. For now, focus on your recovery."
"But the scream..." Lupin's voice trailed off, his expression filled with confusion.
"Scream?" Dumbledore repeated, his eyes narrowing slightly. "The scream doesn't mean anything to you, Remus. You've been through a traumatic experience, and your mind is likely trying to make sense of it all." He said in a firm tone, leaving no room for argument.
Lupin's face went pale, and he gripped the sheets tightly. "I feel like there's something vital I need to remember, Albus. Something or someone connected to all of this."
Dumbledore's face remained calm, though his mind was working rapidly. "In time, Remus. For now, concentrate on getting well. We will work through this together when you're ready."
He gave Lupin's shoulder a gentle squeeze and, with a final reassuring smile, left the hospital wing.
Lupin's eyes remained troubled as he stared at the door through which Dumbledore exited. The pieces are there, but they wouldn't fit together. The feeling that he is missing something essential nagged at him, leaving him restless and unsettled.
As he finally drifted into an uneasy sleep, the scream echoed in his mind, a mysterious puzzle that he knew held the key to something vital, yet remained frustratingly out of reach.
1st May 1994
DADA Class
The atmosphere inside the Defense Against the Dark Arts (DADA) classroom is both charged with excitement and weighed down by an air of formality. This is Dumbledore's 3rd class of teaching, filling in for the absent Professor Lupin, who is rumoured to be now awake and students have been buzzing with anticipation all week. Even the portraits in the hallway seemed to be whispering in excitement.
Harry, along with his fellow students, found their seats as Dumbledore entered the room. His presence was commanding, yet warm, his eyes twinkling behind his half-moon glasses. His robe swirled as he made his way to the front of the room, where he paused to survey his captive audience.
"Good morning, students," Dumbledore began, his voice rich and calm. "Continuing from our last class, today we shall embark on a journey into the very essence of fear, courage, and the complexities of the human soul. Our subject matter is not only vital to your magical education but to the understanding of ourselves and the world we live in."
He paused to let his words sink in before continuing, "Our exploration will take us into the dark and terrifying realm of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, not merely as a study of Dark Arts, but to understand why he is feared and what we can learn from his rise to power."
The class is silent, every eye fixed on Dumbledore, each student entranced by his words.
Dumbledore conjured an image of Lord Voldemort, causing a few students to flinch involuntarily. "Fear is a powerful weapon," he said, his voice gentle but firm. "But we must not allow it to control us. By understanding what we fear, we can face it, and in facing it, we find our strength."
He walked among the desks, speaking of Voldemort's mastery of Dark Arts, his manipulation of minds and emotions, and his strategic use of fear and intimidation. Dumbledore spoke not just as a lecturer but as a storyteller, weaving historical facts with personal insights, and connecting the lessons to real-world applications.
"It was said that the DADA position is Jinxed and that's the reason no Professor can't continue to 2nd year," Dumbledore said observing everyone's reaction. And as he expected, Harry's eyes got a spark at that.
"The only solution to the Jinx cast by a powerful wizard like Voldemort-" he got many flinches at that and with a forced wince, he continued, "is his death." He paused, waiting for everyone's reaction to what he said.
Everyone looked at him in shock and surprise and he saw many looking at him in fear. Only 1 face looked at him in anger and determination. Though others' reactions concerned him, the face of a raven-haired young man with fiery emerald eyes reassured him.
He saw such brave faces in Years 2 and 4 as well. Brilliant young witches they are and the determination he saw in their eyes skipped Dumbledore's heart. But he knew, the emerald-eyed young man in front of him is the key.
His only aim in sharing this is to make sure that the future generation at least knows that Voldemort is alive as his Jinx is still active. He should thank Severus for telling that titbit. Not wanting to make his students faint from fear, he continued.
Guiding the students through advanced defensive spells as a distraction to the previous dark topic, providing insights into the subtleties of magic that went beyond mere incantations. His teaching is not about rote memorization, but about understanding the underlying principles, the ethics, and the philosophy of magic.
The class culminated in a hands-on exercise where students are challenged to confront their deepest fears, applying what they learned not only in terms of magical technique but also in terms of self-awareness, courage, and resilience.
As the end approached, Dumbledore locked eyes with everyone, his gaze piercing yet compassionate. "Remember, all of you," he said, addressing the class, "that the true measure of a wizard/witch is not in how they wield power, but in how they understand it, how they respect it, and how they choose to use it."
As the class filed out, abuzz with conversation and reflection, Harry felt a range of emotions running through him. Dumbledore's lessons are not always normal. The Headmaster brings up something profound in every class, making it unique.
He conjured his Patronus in the first class and taught them the basic steps of it, he showed everyone the basics of wandless magic and used his hands to levitate tables and benches in the second class. And so everyone was excited about the third class.
Harry didn't expect the headmaster to talk about Voldemort of all people. He gave the class a shorter version of the memories of his 2nd year and the part most interesting to Harry is the Jinx on the DADA position.
He has been curious about the position as it's the only class that has a new face teaching every year and today's class answered his question. He also observed how the crooked old man sowed a seed of doubt about Voldemort's death subtly.
With a myriad of thoughts about his nemesis and supposed equal, Harry made his way to the Chamber of Secrets, deciding to discuss the plan to move Sirius from the said Chamber.
3rd May 1994
Headmaster Office
In the dimly lit office of Headmaster Dumbledore, the tall bookshelves cast long shadows, Remus Lupin sat across from the wise and kindly wizard, a look of worry etched into his features. The incident with the scream left him shaken, and the thought of the approaching full moon added a layer of complexity to his emotional turmoil.
He walked into Dumbledore's office as he had recovered enough to walk and was greeted by many relieved students. Their reaction warmed Lupin's heart and somewhat healed his damaged spirit.
Dumbledore, ever the calm presence, looked at Lupin with understanding and empathy in his eyes. "Remus," he began, his voice gentle, "I know that the events of the past weeks have been incredibly trying for you. But we must address the approaching full moon and make arrangements for your safety, as well as the safety of our students and staff."
Lupin's eyes dropped to the floor, and he nodded, the weight of the responsibility heavy on his shoulders. "I know, Albus. I've been thinking about it, too. It's just that everything feels so uncertain now. I can't shake the feeling that something is different, something I can't quite put my finger on."
Dumbledore reached across the desk, placing a reassuring hand on Lupin's. "I understand, my friend. The fear and doubt you're experiencing are natural, given what you've been through. But we must take precautions. We cannot ignore the reality of the situation."
Lupin looked up, his eyes filled with resolve. "I know, and I agree. I will do whatever it takes to ensure that no one is put in danger because of me."
Dumbledore smiled warmly. "I knew you would feel that way. I suggest that you take refuge in the Shrieking Shack for the duration of the full moon. It's isolated and secure, and you're familiar with it. We'll make all the necessary arrangements for your comfort."
Lupin nodded, his mind already working on the practicalities. "I'll prepare myself, make sure everything is in order. I trust that you'll keep an eye on things here at the school?"
"Of course," Dumbledore assured him. "And know that you're not alone in this, Remus. We're all here for you, and we'll support you in any way we can."
Lupin's face softened, a small smile playing on his lips. "Thank you, Albus. That means more to me than you know."
Dumbledore rose, moving around the desk to place a comforting arm around Lupin's shoulders. "You're a brave and strong man, Remus. You've faced challenges before, and you've always come through. This will be no different."
Lupin's eyes met Dumbledore's, gratitude and determination mingling in their depths. "I know. And I'm ready to face it."
With those words, they moved towards the door, their steps filled with purpose. The path ahead is fraught with uncertainty, but they will face it together, guided by wisdom, compassion, and the unbreakable bonds of trust and friendship.
7th May 1994
In the shadowed rooms of the Shrieking Shack, Lupin found himself ensconced in isolation. The incident with the scream and the subsequent coma left him disoriented, haunted by fragmented memories that danced on the edges of his consciousness.
With his transformation approaching, the fear and uncertainty that it brought are magnified a hundredfold by his recent experiences. Dumbledore offered him the Shrieking Shack as a place of refuge, and he'd gratefully accepted, aware that his condition posed a potential danger to the students. Even more so as he doesn't know how his wolf side would react to all this.
As the full moon appeared, he lost his sense, transforming into the cruel creature of despair. But unknown to Lupin, the werewolf didn't even try to escape or catch some prey. It only whimpered in fear, scared to its core by the ruthlessness and power of the Arctic magical creature.
Unlike Lupin, his wolf side remembered what happened in its twisted sense of world-view on that night. It remembered the scream, the mutt and th-the nightmare, the Ice Phantom.
As the days turned into nights and back into days, his transformation wore off and the after-effects started, Lupin's mind wrestled with itself, torn between the need to protect others from his condition and the gnawing fear of what lay within him and what that has led to. His memories of the incident are still foggy, but he knew that something had gone horribly wrong, something beyond his control.
As he observed the lack of scratches or destruction around him. His wolf side doesn't like isolation. It tries its best to escape, but by the looks of it, it didn't attempt such a thing this time. This surprised him.
He concluded that something terrified his other half happened that night. He paced the creaky floors, his thoughts a storm of doubt and recrimination. Could he trust himself around the students any longer? Self-doubt, worthlessness and despair seeped into him. What if something triggered another loss of control? The walls of the Shrieking Shack seemed to close in on him, mirroring the walls he felt building around his own mind.
The isolation is both a comfort and a curse. It provided safety for others but also left him alone with his thoughts, his fears, and his insecurities. He found himself replaying every moment, every choice that led him to this point, analysing them with a ruthlessness that left him feeling raw and exposed.
In the quiet hours of the night, he would sit by the window, looking out at the distant lights of Hogwarts. He thought of the students, the staff, and the life he'd built there. A life now tinged with a shadow he couldn't shake.
He knew that the transformation is inevitable, a part of who he is. But the recent events have cast it in a new, terrifying light. It is no longer just a personal battle; it is something that could affect others, something that can bring harm to those he cared about.
Fortunately for him, his last mis-cycle transformation didn't cause any harm to anyone but he knew that won't be the case every time. He found some solace in writing, scribbling down his thoughts, his fears, his hopes. The words are a lifeline, a way to make sense of the chaos within him. He wrote to Dumbledore, expressing his gratitude, and his concerns, seeking reassurance but also offering his resignation if it is deemed necessary.
But in the end, he knew that the decision lay with him. He has to face the full moon, face the transformation, and face himself. He has to understand what has happened, why it has happened, and what it means for his future.
With a heavy heart and a determined mind, Lupin prepared himself for what lay ahead, knowing that the path to self-discovery and redemption is fraught with challenges. But he also knew that he owed it to himself, to the students, to face those challenges head-on and emerge stronger on the other side.
18th May 1994
Two weeks passed since Lupin took refuge in the Shrieking Shack, as the full moon approached. The time alone gave him much opportunity to reflect on his situation, the gaps in his memory, and the mysterious incident that had led to his coma. The weight of his responsibility as a teacher, his condition as a werewolf, and the unknown threat he might pose to others have been preying on his mind.
Finally, he reached a decision, one that filled him with both relief and profound sadness. Lupin arrived at Dumbledore's office, looking apprehensive but determined. The gargoyle guarding the entrance sprang aside as he reached, and Lupin ascended the spiral staircase.
Dumbledore looked up from his desk as Lupin entered, his eyes searching Lupin's face, sensing something significant on his mind. "Remus, it's good to see you. Come in, come in."
Lupin's eyes are filled with a mixture of determination and regret as he met Dumbledore's gaze. "Thank you for seeing me, Albus. I have something important to discuss."
Dumbledore gestured to a chair, his expression attentive and understanding. "Of course, Remus, please, sit."
Once seated, Lupin's voice is firm but tinged with sadness as he began, "Albus, I appreciate everything you've done for me, especially the opportunity to teach at Hogwarts. But recent events have made me realise that I may pose a threat to the students and staff."
Dumbledore's eyes narrowed slightly, concern flickering in his eyes. "Remus, you're not responsible for what happened. The incident of that night is still a mystery, and there's no evidence that you are a threat to anyone." Dumbledore tried to reassure the shabby man.
Lupin shook his head, his decision unwavering. "I know, Albus, but I don't know what happened. My condition as a werewolf, coupled with this unknown factor, makes me a potential risk. I can't continue to teach, knowing that I might endanger those I care about." Lupin said with difficulty the words stuck in his throat.
He didn't have his friends to control himself or play around when he transformed. He didn't have anyone left to reassure him that everything is fine and things would get better. He is alone in a world that has always been against him. He is a lone wolf through and through.
Dumbledore's expression softened, filled with empathy for the man before him. "I must say, Remus, you seem to be recovering well. Your colour has returned, and you appear stronger." He paused, going over what he is about to say. "But I understand where you are coming from and your concerns, and I respect your decision, though I deeply regret it."
"In the past weeks of teaching, I can see your passion for the subject and your care for the students in them, Remus. It is a great loss for Hogwarts." Dumbledore said sincerely.
Lupin's eyes moistened as he looked at Dumbledore. "Thank you for your understanding and trust, Albus. Leaving Hogwarts will be painful, but I believe it's the right thing to do."
Dumbledore rose and extended his hand, grasping Lupin's firmly. "You will always be part of the Hogwarts family, Remus. I wish you all the best in your future endeavours, and please know that you have my unending support."
With those heartfelt words, the meeting concluded, their connection strong but tinged with the sorrow of farewell. Lupin's decision is strong, and he knew it was the right one, but it didn't lessen the ache of leaving the place that has become his home and the students that became his very own in such a short time.
He made his way to his class and quarters to pack his belongings. As he reached it, he saw the myriad of letters and get well soon posters that awaited his arrival and felt touched by them.
As he packed, all his memories at Hogwarts surfaced his arrival as a meek boy, making 3 friends, growing up. His friends helping him and joining him on a full moon in their animagus forms, the fond memories he made and the sadness of losing them in the war.
That's when a familiar raven-haired boy with emerald eyes he had been trying to ignore for the past 9 months appeared in his mind and he decided to take the daring move and decided to talk to Harry.
"Can one of the House-elves send a word to Harry Potter to meet me in my office?" He asked to the empty room and an elf in Hogwarts crested clothes appeared in front of him and nodded.
"Cuffy can help Professor," she said and vanished to relay the message to Harry.
Lupin started to pack, knowing that it would take some time for Harry to come and as he completed packing his clothes, a knock on his door half an hour later interrupted him. He welcomed the young man with a determined look.
Harry entered the candlelit room, the usually welcoming space now tinged with a sense of finality. Books are packed, personal effects gathered, and Lupin himself stood by the window, looking thoughtful and a touch melancholy.
"Professor Lupin. Good to see you recovered," Harry began, his voice high with happiness, "You wanted to see me?" He continued, coming to the matter at hand. He was surprised when Cuffy appeared in front of him with a message to meet Lupin in his office.
He was teaching (torturing) basics of Occlumency to Padma and Terry and reached a juicy point where he was about to suggest them to dance like headless chickens in the great hall in jester clothes when Cuffy appeared.
Lupin turned, a warm smile spreading across his face as he regarded Harry. "Yes, Harry, if I can call you that, please come in. Have a seat." He gestured to a chair and waited for Harry to settle before taking his own seat.
Harry nodded, allowing the man to be informal. He has a feeling that Lupin is finally going to open up about their past connection.
"Harry," Lupin said, his voice filled with affection and seriousness, "I've asked you here to talk about something very important. You'll probably hear soon that I've decided to resign from my post here at Hogwarts."
Harry's eyes widened. "No, Professor, I've not. But why? Is it because of what happened?" He asked, not going into details. Guilt and self-loathing gnawing at him. He didn't want things to go like this damn it!
Lupin's expression softened, and he reached across the desk, placing a reassuring hand on Harry's arm thinking Harry was worried about him. "It's a decision I've made after careful consideration. My condition, my memory loss, and the unknown factors from that night's incident... It's made me realise that I might be a threat. I can't continue to teach with that possibility hanging over me."
Harry's eyes were filled with concern and regret. "But sir, you've been a great teacher. You've helped us so much. Is there really no other way?" He tried his best. He can't help but fill the gaps Lupin purposefully left.
Remus Lupin is a werewolf and he is badly injured on that night with his memories tampered with. And Harry knew he is the reason for the last 2. He can't help but think to do something about the situation.
But how? He can't say he knew Lupin is a werewolf. He can't say he found his mother's diary. Harry knew if Dumbledore knew that, Harry can't be truly free at least as much as he is now. He swallowed hard, unable to decide what to do.
Lupin smiled, assuming it as Harry deep into thought to help. "I'm afraid there is no other way, Harry. And that's what I wanted to talk to you about. I'm truly sorry for not being there for you these past… ye-weeks, for leaving you without the guidance and support you deserve." He spoke with regret, correcting his mistake. He can't say it. Not now, when he is leaving again.
Though Harry caught and understood what Lupin tried to say, he didn't press. His guilt and regret suppressing his will to reunite with his old uncle. Harry's voice broke slightly as he spoke, "You've been the best teacher of DADA we had so far, Professor. I understand your decision, but we'll miss you."
Lupin's eyes were filled with genuine emotion as he replied, "I'll miss you all too, Harry. You've been more than just a student to me. And I want you to know that I'll always be here for you, no matter where I am. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to reach out."
Harry's eyes glistened as he nodded, moved by Lupin's words. "Thank you, Professor. I'll remember that."
They sat in silence for a moment, the weight of the imminent farewell hanging heavily in the air.
Finally, Lupin rose, extending his hand to Harry. "Take care of yourself, Harry. Keep learning, keep growing, and always remember that you have the strength and courage to face anything."
Harry took Lupin's hand, feeling a profound sense of gratitude and loss. "Thank you, Professor Lupin. For everything."
With those final words, Harry left Lupin's office, the door closing gently behind him, marking the end of one more era at Hogwarts.
Later that Day
As the day progressed, one of the students walking through the corridor found a letter pinned to the Entrance door of Lupin's class, the title making it clear what it was about and who it was from. The student took to the Great Hall, as everyone started gathering there for dinner.
The student opened the letter and started reading aloud, not giving any notice about it.
'Moonlit Farewell!'
'Dear Students,
As I write these words, I find myself filled with a mixture of gratitude, sadness, and hope. The time I've spent at Hogwarts, serving as your DADA professor, has been among the most rewarding experiences of my life.'
Understanding what the Gryffindor was reading, silence settled in the hall, everyone intently listening to their best DADA Professor's words.
'In our classes, we've explored not only the techniques and knowledge to defend ourselves against the dark forces but also the values that bind us as witches and wizards. Courage, empathy, determination – these qualities are not just learned; they are lived, and I have seen them in each and every one of you.
I want to thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey, for the questions you've asked, the effort you've put forth, and the trust you've shown. I have learned as much from you as I hope you have learned from me.
Life sometimes calls us to make difficult choices. The decision to leave Hogwarts is one that weighs heavily on my heart, but I believe it to be the right course of action. Though I may no longer be physically present in the halls and classrooms of our beloved school, know that my thoughts and my heart will remain with you.
Continue to strive for excellence, not only in your studies but also in your character. Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, support each other, and never forget that the choices we make define us far more than our abilities.
I look forward to hearing about your future successes, and I have no doubt that each of you will make your mark on the world in your own unique way. Please remember, no matter where your path may lead, to carry forward the lessons of kindness, bravery, and wisdom.
With deepest appreciation and fondest farewell,
Professor Remus J. Lupin.
P.S. Be kind to one another, cherish your friendships, and never lose sight of the light, even in the darkest of times. You are the future, and I believe in you.'
The letter addressed to the students read and everyone stood and clapped for the man for 3 minutes. Some teared up, some are frustrated and some are disappointed. But the fact remains, Remus Lupin is a great Professor who will be long remembered by his students.
And Cut.
That's it for this Chapter, folks. Hope you all liked it. Tell me, what you think of the chapter and story in general.
Any suggestions are welcomed.
See y'all in the next chapter.
Black Infinity 1289,
Ja Ne.
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