That Man

Birmingham.

The entire street echoed with the wail of sirens as people continuously fled beyond the cordon.

Police officers in uniform and Aurors in robes stood guard at the perimeter, their expressions grave.

Harry and the other two hurried over.

An Auror reached out to stop them, only for the director to immediately slap his hand aside.

Wizards no longer needed to hide themselves as they had in the past.

But on the other hand, that also meant criminals could operate anywhere without restraint.

As a result, the Aurors who dealt with criminals had expanded severalfold in number.

Reckless newcomers sometimes made the mistake of failing to recognize someone important.

"Minister, Madam Granger, and... this gentleman."

Ron's face instantly flushed bright red.

"What's the situation inside, Skatch?" Harry asked in a low voice.

Looking somewhat embarrassed, Skatch turned and glanced down the street.

"The culprit is very cunning. He robbed a truckload of magic water in broad daylight, but instead of leaving immediately, he hid somewhere on this street and began searching everywhere for any magic water that might be here."

"What about the anti-Apparition device?"

"It's already activated. We're waiting for the protective gear to arrive, then we can begin the operation."

Skatch pointed at a machine at the edge of the cordon, twice the height of a person. A mesh-like metal membrane had unfolded inside it, aimed down the street.

Even standing behind it, Harry felt nauseated and found it difficult to focus.

Under the effects of such a device, anyone forcing themselves to Apparate stood a very high chance of being splinched.

At best, they would lose an arm or a leg. At worst, they would lose their lives!

Harry nodded in satisfaction.

"Since we've trapped him, let's begin the search..."

"What kind of street is this?"