Chapter 45: The Aurors

As Sherlock Forester followed Bill through the slightly derelict but nevertheless charming dwelling known as The Burrow, he considered the Weasley with curiosity. Bill was only two years older than Sherlock and they had been separated by two grades during their shared time at Hogwarts.

"I understand you achieved an impressive twelve 'Outstanding' grades in your N.E.W.Ts, Sherlock," said Bill. "And then pursued a career within the Auror department of the Ministry of Magic?"

Unlike the mischievous twins, Fred and George (who had a notorious reputation for causing mayhem), the two elder Weasley brothers Bill and Charlie, were more reserved and disciplined. Desiring independence, they had embarked on vastly different career paths—Bill working as a curse breaker for Gringotts in Egypt, and Charlie joining the ranks of dragon tamers in Romania.

Sherlock merely nodded in response to Bill's inquiry. "Originally, it was my intention to gather practical experience and work in the action-oriented department of the Auror's command," he shared. "However, they believed my skills were better utilized within the branch that focused on magical research and administration. Yet due to a contrast in job expectations, I resigned after just over a year."

Bill shrugged, a playful glint in his eyes. "Well, even if you aren't an Auror, working as a curse breaker has its perks. It's not just about languishing in an office, wand in hand, but it also involves its fair share of outdoor exploration and adventure."

"My ultimate aim was always to assume a teaching role at Hogwarts, specifically in the Defense Against the Dark Arts," revealed Sherlock. "Applying for the Auror department initially was in accordance with Dumbledore's advice. He believed I wasn't prepared to take on a teaching position at that time. Now, it's an honor to finally live my dream."

Bill looked genuinely astounded upon hearing Sherlock's ambitions. "I must admit, I certainly didn't expect Professor Dumbledore to actually appoint a professor in their early twenties, especially for Defense Against the Dark Arts. It demonstrates the immense faith he has in you."

"Indeed," replied Sherlock nonchalantly.

"Nonetheless, when it comes to your induction into the Order of the Phoenix, my parents and others harbor differing views from Professor Dumbledore's. I expect this topic may stir up some controversy during the dinner," Bill added, a hint of warning in his words.

Sherlock frowned slightly. "Why would that be?"

"I can't say for certain," Bill replied honestly. "But the dinner is soon to commence, and no doubt the reasons will become apparent."

While the Burrow may be perceived as simple and slightly run-down from the outside, it hosted a surprisingly large number of rooms, including a spacious living area capable of accommodating nine people quite comfortably.

Having provided Sherlock with a brief tour of the Burrow, Bill guided him towards the garden.

A long, banquet-style table had been arranged in the garden, adorned with a pastel-colored tablecloth. Accompanying the bounty of food, were three decorative vases, placed at equal intervals, each filled with multi-colored flowers. Around two or three dozen wizards and witches had already gathered.

Sherlock's gaze landed on an elderly man with a robust appearance, a prosthetic leg, and a magical eye. A tall, bald, dark-skinned wizard with striking gold earrings conversed with him, and the lively young witch with them sported vibrant emerald hair, luminous black eyes, and a fashion-forward blouse—a clear symbol of her rebellious spirit.

The moment Sherlock caught the glance of the dark-skinned wizard, the latter showcased a surprised yet solemn expression. Quickly concluding his conversation with the elder wizard and the young witch, he promptly made his way towards Sherlock.

"It's been quite some time, Sherlock. I recall the last time we met was two years ago when I bid you farewell at the Ministry of Magic," he said cordially.

Fully recognizing that Sherlock preferred to maintain a certain level of distance, the wizard lightly embraced him.

But Sherlock didn't shy away. He had seen this man in the memories and photographs of the original host—Kingsley Shacklebolt, a trusted ally of Dumbledore's, and a respected Auror. Kingsley had always shown considerable concern for the original host while at the Ministry of Magic and was among the very few people the original host was willing to meet.

Sherlock also recognized the older man who possessed the magical eye—Alastor Moody. He was a renowned Auror within the British Ministry of Magic. His battle scars, magical eye, and prosthetic leg, were reminders of past conflicts with Death Eaters and practitioners of the Dark Arts.

Yet despite his physical hindrances, there was a certain nobility about Moody. He was a wizard of courage, tolerance, and responsibility. His capability to guide wayward Aurors back onto the right path spoke volumes about his character. However, as he aged, he became more suspicious and irritable.

Despite that, in the Ministry, he got along well with the original host and believed that if the original host had joined the combat department of the Aurors, he would certainly have become a bright new star in the Ministry, as such he frequently helped submit applications on the original host's behalf. Because of this, the original host was even closer to Moody than Kingsley.

Upon Kingsley joining him, Moody, with the young witch in tow, approached Sherlock as well.

"It's been a while, Sherlock," he began, his voice a gruff resonance that matched his rugged exterior. "I heard you've taken up a teaching post at Hogwarts."

"Indeed, I have," began Sherlock. "Even though you believed my future at the Aurors' command was destined to be grand, my aspirations always lay within the classrooms of Hogwarts."

Rather than taking offense, Moody merely laughed heartily at Sherlock's honesty. "I see. Even after all these years, your resolve remains the same."

Motioning to the young witch beside him, Kingsley introduced her as Nymphadora Tonks.

"She was one grade junior to you at Hogwarts, Sherlock. After graduating just this previous summer, she has joined the ranks of the Auror trainees. Tonks is undoubtedly talented and expected to make an exceptional Auror with her ambitious drive and strong sense of justice. I thought it fitting to bring her along to this gathering, to meet Dumbledore."

Before Kingsley could return the favor and introduce Sherlock, Tonks interjected eagerly. "There's no need to formally introduce me to Professor Forester," she stated rather proudly. "I've known him since my second year at Hogwarts. In fact, in my fourth year, I even confessed my love to him."

Her unexpected outburst caused a sudden ripple of surprise to cut through the chatter of the crowd. An array of wide-eyed stares turned towards the three of them, leaving the crowd struck with stunned silence.