**Chapter 10: Undercover Mission**

As I settled into my favorite armchair, surrounded by the warm, golden glow of the setting sun streaming through the windows of my cozy flat, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. The soft crackle of the fire in the fireplace and the gentle hum of the tea kettle in the background created a soothing atmosphere, and I felt my shoulders relax as I let out a deep breath. My thoughts, however, were soon interrupted by the memory of my conversation with Harry Potter earlier that day. His concerns about living up to his father's expectations had resonated deeply with me, and I was glad I could offer some guidance and support. Just as I was about to pour myself a cup of tea, my wand chose that moment to beep, signaling an incoming message. I retrieved it, reading the note from Dumbledore himself. "Sadie, my dear, I hope this message finds you well. I was wondering if you could visit me at Hogwarts tomorrow. I have some matters to discuss with you, and I would value your insight and expertise. -Albus" I smiled, feeling a warmth in my chest. Dumbledore had always treated me like a niece, offering wisdom and support whenever I needed it. I had a deep respect for him, and I was happy to oblige his request. The next day, I apparated to Hogwarts, arriving at the Headmaster's office just as the sun was rising over the castle. Dumbledore greeted me warmly, his eyes twinkling with kindness. "Ah, Sadie, it's been too long. Please, sit down and let's chat." I took a seat in one of the comfortable chairs in front of his desk, feeling a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I had spent countless hours in this very room, discussing my studies and my future with Dumbledore. "So, what brings you here today, sir?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me. Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers together. "I've been thinking about your career, Sadie. You've accomplished so much already, and I have no doubt you'll continue to make a name for yourself in the wizarding world. But I was wondering if you'd be interested in taking on a special project for the Ministry of Magic." I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A special project? What kind of project?" Dumbledore's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I've received intelligence about a highly illegal international trading company that's been stealing, harming, and genetically altering magical animals. I believe your unique skills and experience make you the perfect candidate to go undercover and gather evidence." My heart skipped a beat as I processed the information. This sounded like a challenging and important mission, and I was eager to take it on. "I'm in," I said, without hesitation. "What do I need to do?" Dumbledore nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I knew I could count on you, Sadie. You'll need to change your appearance and identity drastically. No one can recognize you. You'll be working alone, and you'll need to be careful. The trading company is known to be ruthless." I nodded, already thinking about the logistics of the mission. I had worked undercover before, but this sounded like a particularly difficult challenge. "I'll need to create a new identity for myself," I said, thinking out loud. "A new name, a new backstory...the works." Dumbledore nodded. "I'll provide you with all the necessary resources and support. You'll be working with the Ministry, of course, but you'll be largely on your own. Are you ready to get started?" I took a deep breath, feeling a thrill of excitement mixed with a touch of fear. I was ready to take on this mission, and I was confident that I could make a difference. "I'm ready, sir," I said, standing up. Dumbledore smiled, his eyes shining with approval. "I knew I could count on you, Sadie. You'll make a wonderful undercover agent. Now, let's get started on the details..." He pressed a button on his desk, and a small, unassuming woman with a plain face and mousy brown hair entered the room. "This is Elara Vex, one of our top Ministry employees. She'll be helping you with your new identity and providing support throughout the mission." I nodded at Elara, who smiled and handed me a small folder. "Your new identity is that of 'Lena Grant,' a young, ambitious journalist looking to make a name for herself in the wizarding world. You'll be posing as a freelance writer, investigating rumors of magical animal trafficking." I opened the folder, scanning the contents. There was a new driver's license, a few credit cards, and a notebook filled with notes and research on the trading company. "When do I start?" I asked, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation. Elara smiled. "You start now, Lena. You have a meeting with a contact in an hour. He'll provide you with more information on the trading company and their operations." I nodded, taking a deep breath. I was ready to become Lena Grant, undercover agent and investigator. I was ready to take on this mission and make a difference.