"An amulet."
Moody offered a succinct explanation.
"I've placed the most powerful protective magic on it. If a strongly malicious attack targets you, it will automatically activate an impenetrable shield, enough to hold out until I arrive to help."
He delivered his lie without batting an eye, full of concern for someone younger.
"Now listen. We need to split up to cover more ground."
Moody pointed toward the edge of the Forbidden Forest nearby.
"Go straight to Hagrid's Hut from here. That area is relatively safe.
You'll be responsible for checking the patch of woods behind the hut, near the pumpkin patch, for any traces left by transportation magic. Remember, don't overlook any unusual fluctuations in magic."
"What about you, Professor?"
"Me?"
A fierce smile appeared on Moody's face.
"I'll go deeper. The signal points deep into the Forbidden Forest, and the things there aren't particularly friendly. I'll have to tackle the tough ones."
He clapped Harry hard on the shoulder.
"Don't worry, boy. Stay with Hagrid once you've finished checking, and wait for me to come back. Remember, unless that flask activates on its own, don't go deep into the Forbidden Forest. Understand?"
"Understood, Professor."
Harry nodded, his face filled with complete trust.
"Off you go."
Moody waved a hand.
Clutching the flask that served as a Portkey, Harry turned and headed toward Hagrid's Hut without the slightest suspicion.
His retreating figure soon vanished into the shadows of the trees.
Moody stood where he was, utterly motionless.
He stared fixedly in the direction Harry had disappeared for a full minute.
He confirmed that Harry had gone far enough away that he could no longer turn back.
An irrepressible fit of silent, wild laughter made his shoulders shake violently.
It worked.
The plan was flawless.
A perfect, irrefutable alibi.
*Everyone