Harry Potter and the Stranded Mists of Spring

Chapter 19 - Getting Started

Kingsley never questioned Harry's instructions to ride the bus. Consequently, none of the rest of the team did either. They simply climbed on board after accepting the pass Harry handed to each of them. The bus stopped twice before leaving the little community, picking up more passengers outside the B&B Inn along the way.

The bus ride took thirty minutes after leaving the town, letting everybody on it off at the stop a short walk from the dig. The lead science staff was already there. Harry said hello to Detective Collins, who was monitoring who was coming and going, before walking right past.

Given who was coming, Harry wasn't surprised there was extra security posted closer to the Digg Hut, the heavy equipment, and the future site of the exploratory trench. Dudley and Rupert were among them, and they simply nodded to Harry when he and his team walked past.

Harry was also recognized by Dr. Summerby right away and introduced his team as authorized personnel associated with the dig. They were all given badges identifying them that way, then they stood back to watch and wait. The press and more security showed up ahead of a limousine. Cameras were set up. Then HRH the Prince, the President of the National Trust emerged from the vehicle and was escorted up the slope to the site of the burial mound and the current dig, including the Digg Hut, followed by additional security and the press. Dr. Summerby showed him the computer scans of the tunnel system they hoped to reach, and HRH the Prince was suitably impressed.

"I look forward to learning more about what you discover concerning the ancient history of the land our nation holds in trust for future generations," HRH the Prince announced, his words caught on camera as he spoke.

His next stop was outside to meet some of the key people associated with the dig. He stepped forward in recognition when he spotted Kingsley.

"Minister Shacklebolt. I'm surprised to see you here," HRH the Prince said.

"Your Highness," Kingsley replied with a slight bow. "The history of these lands affects all our people."

"Yes, of course," HRH the Prince agreed. "And who are all these people?" He gestured towards the Aurors standing with the Minister.

"My team," Kingsley answered simply, "and a few associates of ours."

"I'm pleased to see and meet all of you. Detective Smith, how are you?" HRH the Prince inquired kindly.

"Very good, Your Highness," Edmund replied with a slight bow.

The Prince smiled. "I understand there is a ribbon to be cut somewhere?"

"Right this way, Your Highness," one of the National Trust officials who was there the day before said.

HRH the Prince stopped to greet a few more people along the way, but eventually the group which first gathered close to the Digg Hut made their way down the side of the hill to where the exploratory trench would be dug. The entire procession was covered by the media. There was indeed a ribbon across the future location of the exploratory trench, held in position by two stakes. Several of the officials present said a few words, talking about connection of our present with the past and the future. HRH the Prince said a few words too before cutting the ribbon, then the officials who spoke were all handed ceremonial shovels. In unison, they each turned a shovel full of dirt while photos and video of the event was taken. Then they all stood back.

The backhoe moved into place to scoop up the soil loosened by the officials, moving it to the wagon to be sifted through and examined later. Then it took its first full bite into the ground and the process of digging the trench was officially begun. Those gathered watched for a bite or two before returning to the Digg Hut for some light refreshments, some more photographs, and a press interview with Dr. Summerby. There wasn't much actual work done that morning. The main activity was the ceremony and dealing with the media. It wasn't until it was over, and the officials and dignitaries left, including Kingsley, that Dr. Summerby and Esme came to greet the Aurors.