Chapter 576: The Hog’s Head
Hogsmeade was unusually quiet, a stark contrast to its usual bustling atmosphere. With the Triwizard Tournament's final match—the most celebrated event in centuries—drawing everyone, even the shopkeepers, to Hogwarts, the village seemed almost deserted.
That tranquility was shattered moments ago by two shocking announcements: first, Harry Potter's mysterious disappearance, and then the Champion of the Triwizard Tournament vanishing in front of the crowd.
This prompted an immediate need for inspections, but only among those who knew the truth of the matter. To most, these disappearances were puzzling but not alarming. When Kyle had vanished, many simply assumed it was another twist orchestrated by the judges.
At The Hog's Head, the situation was far less tranquil.
Sirius Black stood with his wand raised, his expression menacing as he faced the cranky old owner.
Remus Lupin was there as well, systematically lifting the hoods of the bar's patrons to check their identities. The customers were unusually cooperative. But then again, not many would dare defy a fully transformed werewolf—especially one towering close to seven or eight feet tall.
Yes, it was a full moon.
Despite his transformation, Lupin had retained his human mind, thanks to the Wolfsbane Potion he had taken earlier. He'd been resting in the Shrieking Shack when Sirius brought him the troubling news about Harry and Kyle's sudden disappearance. That was all it took for Lupin to abandon his rest and join Sirius in the search.
For the first time in decades, Lupin found himself not resenting his werewolf nature. In fact, it proved useful.
The grumpier customers who might otherwise have resisted Sirius's inspection had immediately quieted upon Lupin's arrival. Wands were hastily stowed, and they began cooperating with surprising enthusiasm. They were now as obedient as Hogwarts first-years at their Sorting.
The only exception was the owner, a tall, thin man with long gray hair and a beard. He seemed perpetually irritated and was holding a grimy glass that he was halfheartedly wiping with an equally dirty rag.