Magic and Science

by MrsRJLupin

COMPLETE. Cecilia Frobisher continues her adventures in the wizard world with the Science and Magic Sequel. Opinions are valued, thanks for R&Ring! March 2018 The final sequel is under way: The Art of the Wize - I appreciate all reviews, rare that they are these days. Feel free to download the audio from my Youtube Playlist: MrsRJ Lupin (a space between RJ and Lupin)

6. The Grand Wizengamot

DISCLAIMER: ALL OF THE CHARACTERS AND SCENARIOS BELONG TO JKR AND/OR WARNER BROS.

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The premises for Ministry of Magic in Great Britain is located under the main streets of London, where Garrick Street becomes Bedford Street, in the space between the pavement and the Underground network. Indistinguishable to muggles and even, on occasions, to those of the magical persuasion, its actual physical dimensions are unfathomable for, while the seemingly miles of corridors, floors and departments span a vast physical area the actual space it occupies in real terms is next to nothing. Perhaps then, this is why it is the location for the Ministry of Magic and also why stupid authors shouldn't try to reason its existence.

Nevertheless, its dimensions and size become more pertinent when we examine the location of an event which has not been held internationally for almost five hundred years and never on British wizarding soil. So significant the event, so potentially far-reaching its consequences and yet so subtle in its existence to the ignorant bustling crowds of muggles and wizards eight feet (and at the same time three miles) above the nature of the event has been kept, up until now, a secret to all but a few key wizards who will take a prime role in the establishment of a conclusion.

Even the term "event" to describe the secret proceedings that are just about to unfold on this bright Saturday morning belittles its significance for whatever is decided by the International Confederation of Wizards in a Full Trial…its word is final and unconditional…immovable…and carried out to the letter.

Usually such trials whose outcomes are irretractable are carried out when magical ministries in any country feel that sweeping changes are an immediate necessity in order to implement swift legal and often controversial changes in the guise of civil protection by hand-picked Interrogators and officials. Who's to say today's would be any different? To quote a very wise sorcerer, just because it is legal, doesn't make it right.

The results of this particular Full Trial will, though unknowingly, permeate the lives of each and every person you have come across so far; Harry, at school with his friends Ron and Hermione; Minerva McGonagall, striding the halls and corridors of Hogwarts briskly if not slightly panicky; Hagrid in his hut, making a drink from what was once a teabag (and is now a paper-tea-leaf mush) and cauldron-boiled water. The conclusions will pervade the steel-hard exteriors of one or two of our less-loved characters from a certain school house (one with the emblem not dissimilar to a lizard without legs) and their lives too will be affected, although not quite in the same way as the rest.

And of course, those closest to the main subject of the Trial; those intimately connected to her…those whose lives have been affected, either good or ill by her actions...those whose futures interlink and intertwine closely with hers…it is those wizards who will be most affected…

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The vast chamber, lit by thousands of standard candles arranged in clusters for maximum effect displayed the receding banks of empty pews which, though empty, appeared to be filled with Atmosphere. Not atmosphere, as in the mere ratios of volatile and inert gases that make up the air, but Atmosphere, as if thousands of absent spectators were sitting perched on the edges of their seats eagerly waiting for the main protagonists to take their places.

Amongst those seated, apart from Ministry representatives and the Minister himself, smoothing his long white beard and perched in the main chair suspended high above them all was a small, unassuming and very elderly wizard who appeared to have a small flower tucked inside the brim of his official-looking blue wizard's hat. One or two of the representatives, sitting in the seats usually occupied by the prosecution in a criminal trial exchanged glances as Pierre Bonaccord flattened the flower's petals absently against the intersecting "M" and "W" which were embroidered on his hat as he perused the notes that had been thrust before him only moments ago.

A small cough reverberated around the chamber arising, it would appear, from the Ministry section and Albus Dumbledore, seated on in the centre of the chamber on a gold, high-backed chair looked across at Cornelius Fudge whose exasperated face of moments ago slid to ignorance as he began to take a keen interest in Bonaccord's literary discourse of the case in hand.

"…so, what you're trying to tell me Fudge, is that you've brought me out of retirement…out of fifty years of retirement in order to preside over the very wizard who succeeded me? Hm…? Albus Dumbledore…?"

From his chair, which looked far too large to accommodate him appropriately, Bonaccord looked at Fudge over his large spectacles, gesturing with his right hand at Dumbledore while casting a scathing look at the Minister. Fudge shifted uncomfortably in his chair, ignoring the muttering that had begun around him as the Ministry representatives began to whisper uncertainly.

"With respect, hm-hm, ex-Supreme Mugwump," continued Fudge, every effort focused on keeping his voice firm and steady, "with the situation that we have here, and having already heard from the Chief Warlock himself that the Wizengamot of Great Britain cannot – regrettably – hear evidence on the matter – " he glanced hurriedly at his deputy Algernon Gandy for self-assurance, " - this is why you have been called upon today. Albus Dumbledore – " here, Fudge's eyes flicked momentarily onto Dumbledore who was still sitting as serenely as he had done half an hour ago on the chair in the centre of the chamber before releasing a humouring smile as he continued " – his role of Supreme Mugwump has been suspended, for clearly he cannot preside over his own trial."

Around him, some of Ministry representatives nodded in silent agreement with Cornelius Fudge, though some more animatedly than others. Those who were remaining reserved simply sat arms folded and observant, uncomfortable at their own presence at the event and feeling that they would rather be a few thousand miles away taming dragons or something else less potent than sitting in a trial where Albus Dumbledore, most respected wizard was to be brought into severe line by their ostentatious superior.

"…yes, yes," continued Bonaccord, waving his hand towards the Ministry representatives and listening as those who were whispering fall silent. "Indeed. All right, very well. Hmph," he exhaled, shuffling on the seat and Fudge cast another look towards Dumbledore as his predecessor muttered something about rights for trolls and the minister waited with veiled impatience for Bonaccord to direct the start of the trial. He didn't have to wait long and he watched as the tiny wizard climbed to his feet and apparated himself to a standing position on his chair. All eyes in the courtroom looked upon him, recognising that the beginning of the trial was imminent and they watched him survey the entire courtroom omnisciently.

"As appointed President and Honorary Supreme Mugwump, I hereby call to order…" as he spoke, a door near the back of the Ministry representatives opened and another joined the mass. Tabitha Penwright had not intended to miss the beginning of the trial but had been delayed in her return to the Ministry following her visit home because of the heavy security in place and she had just spent an hour negotiating with a security wizard to allow her access. As she shuffled slowly through the now-standing throng of her colleagues towards Dolores Umbridge Tabitha's gaze focused immediately on the Supreme Mugwump's opening words, hoping that no-one would notice her tardy timekeeping.

"…state the context nice and clearly, Fudge, for the Interrogators…" Bonaccord gestured to a dozen high-status witches and wizards dressed in plum coloured robes with silver intersecting "I" and "W" on the sleeve which glittered in the lamplight. Tabitha, as with the rest of the wizards around her looked the wizards, chosen from the International Wizengamot to act as jurors in the Trial. Next to her, Tabitha realised that Dolores Umbridge had become aware that she had arrived, and had chosen to express her awareness by casting her a scolding glance. Immediately Tabitha felt her head duck lower but before Umbridge had a chance to follow through her disapproval with words, she noticed her superior's attention had been drawn to the Supreme Mugwump's chair again and, more importantly, to the Supreme Mugwump himself and she too looked in his direction.

"We will start with the crime that Dumbledore here has been accused of...er…hm…" at a loss he looked down at the usher of the court, a slight witch with a pinched nose and round spectacles who began to read from a parchment scroll that appeared in her hands. She looked vaguely at it for a moment before glancing back at Dumbledore. Around her, Tabitha felt the wizards around her focus on the trial again as those around her strained forward to be sure of catching all the words that the witch was about to declare and, as she did so it seemed to Tabitha as if the members of the Wizengamot full guard that were surrounding Dumbledore had, as one, taken a hasty step back.

"Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore you have been accused…" began the usher as she held the parchment firmly at arms' length and silence reigned momentarily as the usher's clear crisp voice rang out and the echoes of her statements reverberated around the vast chamber, "…of High Wizardly Treason. For presiding over a subversive group of wizards and for engaging in illicit and unauthorised muggle-wizard relations. For bringing danger to the students in your care; for knowingly and wilfully exposing them to unsubstantiated and untested teachings. For being a Reciprocator."

When she had finished, the court usher looked up, glanced at Dumbledore before looking back at the Supreme Mugwump. It was his turn, Tabitha knew, to continue the trial, mediating the prosecution and defence until the issues had been heard and all was evident for the Interrogators to discuss. Then the Supreme Mugwump would consider their verdict before passing an irrevocable, final judgment. Not dissimilar to muggle courts, Tabitha recalled as her mind dug up a conversation she had had with her brother who had made it his solemn duty since her shame of being a witch was discovered to educate her in the ways of the real world.

But before Tabitha could remember further memories of her brother however, her attention was drawn to the Full Trial again: the Supreme Mugwump was not directing the trial and instead the focus was brought to the defendant: Dumbledore was chuckling quietly to himself. For a good few minutes the only thing that could be heard in the courtroom was the wizard's expressive laughter which eventually died away to nothing as the look of shocked annoyance grew to silent anger on Cornelius Fudge's face. Bonaccord however looked impassive. Eventually Dumbledore spoke.

"I apologise for my mirth, Supereme Mugwump however it is of utmost curiosity that I stand before you today on a charge of Reciprocation under the laws of the British Ministry of Magic when – he-hm – this government thought reciprocators to be a joke not so long ago…" Dumbledore broke off at the hasty coughing coming from Fudge's vicinity and, glancing pointedly at the minister returned his attention to Bonaccord before getting to his feet.

"May I refer you to the information given, Supreme Mugwump, by Brunella Rand in the European Wizengamot in 1989 when she declared that the advancements achieved by muggles in the town of Heimholtz could have come about through Reciprocation? Something which the minister hastily dismissed?"

Like the spectators at a tennis match the representatives of the Ministry, the Interrogators and even Bonaccord himself began to look between the two wizards as a non-verbal volley was beginning to swing into action. All eyes were on Fudge now, waiting for him to respond. They didn't have to wait long: Cornelius Fudge had got to his feet, trying to resist the urge to fold his arms defensively and turned to the Supreme Mugwump.

"You see, Bonaccord, you see? Even under the gravity of a Full Trial he is not taking this seriously…"

"You were Minister in 1989, were you not, Minister Fudge?" asked the Prime Inquisitor, a middle-aged witch with a Germanic accent got to her feet and pushed back a few stray brown hairs from her face. "Might you describe to the court, Minister Fudge your verdict of the Heimholtz case?"

"…well, I might have said she was silly…"

"…'Fraulein Rand is stark staring bonkers' I believe you declared," said Dumbledore quietly.

"Yes yes yes!" boomed Fudge dismissively. "But this has nothing to do with the case before you here today, Supreme Mugwump." At Fudge's words, Pierre Bonaccord nodded before turning to the defendant, who was still standing in the court and still wore a smile of serenity.

"Of the charges brought against you, Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, how do you plead?"

Around them, the low muttering of the Ministry representatives died back to nothing and the watched in wrapt awe as Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore got to his feet, turning slowly to the usher of the court, who had directed the question to him. Under his gaze the usher returned an expression of impassive cool- and collectedness and she waited for Dumbledore to reply, anticipating his words patiently before faithfully recording them on the official parchment that hung before her, quill aloft.

"Of being a Reciprocator…I am guilty." He nodded slightly towards Bonaccord. "Of the other charges – " he cast a wry glance towards Fudge before returning to Bonaccord, " – I cannot be for, when the accused pleads that they are done for the good of wizardkind, they are not recognised under the British Wizarding Law …"

A switch flicked in the back of Tabitha's mind. Of course. Of course Dumbledore would say this; hadn't Dolores mentioned that he would mention something like that? Not like those were her exact word though, thought Tabitha, as she watched her boss get to her feet at almost exactly the same time as Cornelius Fudge, More like –

" – a flimsy excuse; like I said!" whispered Dolores Umbridge furiously in her descent heavily downwards next to Tabitha. "Just wait till Cornelius…I mean Minister Fudge, of course, has his say – "

Smiling politely at nobody in particular Tabitha turned consciously to stare at a patch on the floor, patently aware of the events that were continuing around her. She could feel the indignation that was irradiating as strongly from Umbridge as the mortification from Minister Fudge – the Supreme Mugwump for the trial had silenced the Minister for Magic and requested him to take his seat. Only when the muffled uncertainty from those wizards around her had died down and Pierre Bonaccord had begun to speak did she dare re-engage with the proceedings, looking up at the tiny wizard who was staring intently at the accused.

"And are you claiming this, Dumbledore?" Bonaccord asked, voicing the unspoken question of probably all assembled. Heads of both the Ministry representatives and the Interrogators turned in kind to look at the suspended headmaster of Hogwarts School.

"Indeed, Supreme Mugwump," Albus Dumbledore clarified, nodding deferentially at his predecessor. A snort came from the group of Ministry representatives, which Bonaccord (and Tabitha) patently ignored by the Supreme Mugwump (although for the latter it was far harder when the opposition had been expressed from her right-hand-side and she watched as her boss glanced loyally at her boss; Fudge limiting his comment to pushing his spectacles up on to the bridge of his nose). Tabitha looked back to Bonaccord, who had not shifted his glance from the defendant.

"You are aware, Dumbledore, that in the same way that you are allowed to call or witnesses on defence and be represented by another in a National Wizengamot hearing so are you here in the International Wizengamot?"

"Indeed sir. I remember feeling most happy when I got that one passed…very fair, very fair…"

"Hm…" Bonaccord cast his eyes towards Fudge before returning them back to Dumbledore. "You wrote the laws under which you now stand accused," he continued in his high-pitched but orderly French accent, "so you know about them. Please could you summarise then, in what manner your believe your actions of, and preceding, the night of Lord Voldermort's return to be carried out for the good of wizardkind?"

"Certainly." Dumbledore nodded at Bonaccord, before turning to address the Inquisitors, looking across their three rows of four wizards each much as Tabitha had seen him do to much larger and younger audiences at Hogwarts, with similar results. Ignoring the downward glances and muted gasps that each of the distinguished officials had betrayed he continued.

"My actions were carried out primarily for the safety of Harry Potter and the dangers that surrounded him and indeed still do surround him…" He broke off again and glanced around the courtroom as a Mexican wave of whispers began to ripple around the assembled wizards as Harry's name was repeated several times in a low mumbling. From the bank of Ministry witnesses, from her place next to Tabitha, Umbridge got to her feet, casting an eye towards Dumbledore before turning with an expression of steely reason towards the Supreme Mugwump.

"Yes, we wondered when he would be dragged into this," she commented, pushing her pair of seaside-rock-pink framed spectacles up her nose as she examined the notes in front of her. Around them the courtroom fell silent and Tabitha began to pink slightly as the Inquisitors and the rest of the Ministry representatives stared dumbly in her direction. Not at her though, for Dolores had managed to draw attention to herself all on her own, but it was because her interjection. It was highly unprecedented for anyone other than the prosecution or the Minister for Magic to address the Supreme Mugwump directly, even when he was present for homeland Wizengamot trials. Sit down, thought Tabitha desperately, please sit down…

And then Tabitha realised why her usually stickler-for-the-rules boss had disregarded a rather large convention, and why the rest of her colleagues were staring in their direction so intently…for under Dolores Umbridge's pink-trimmed official robes she was wearing her Undersecretary sash which had been embroidered with a bright pink P. Prosecution. Dolores was the prosecutor that Cornelius Fudge himself must have chosen. No wonder then, that she had expressed aloud her fervent disagreement to Dumbledore's earlier statements.

"You claim that in order to protect Harry Potter you entered into a Reciprocal relationship?!"

Peeling her eyes away from her boss, Tabitha's attention was drawn towards Dumbledore again.

"Well it would be very difficult for me to state otherwise, Madam Prosecutor, for my act of claiming Reciprocation from a muggle was entirely related to the rise and return of Lord Voldermort."

"I see," interjected Umbridge lightly. "And how do we know Voldermort was making a comeback on the night…when was it, February 24th?" She pushed her spectacles even further up her nose, which examining the parchment that she was holding.

"Other than the 27 eyewitnesses you mean?"

"Can you explain, Albus, said Bonaccord, glancing in the direction of the ministerial seats as Cornelius Fudge got to his feet; Dumbledore's responses were obviously not modest or humble enough to please him.

"Yes, I would like to hear about your eyewitnesses as well, Dumbledore," said Fudge, in an accusing tone.

"So would we all, for the benefit of the Ministry," echoed Umbridge shrilly, looking over her spectacles. "Especially if their number consists of several of our own staff ministerial staff meeting secretly with you…and an escapee from Azkaban…and a half breed…?"

Now all of the court was looking at Umbridge, contemplating her last statement which she had uttered in undisguised triumph. A myriad of conversations began around them; the wizards around Tabitha were clearly interested in the secret meetings and who these dangerous members might have been.

"You do not deny then that you have in your employ a half-breed?" roared Fudge over the din. At once, the Ministry representatives fell silent.

"Indeed I do not. Firenze the Centaur is a marvellous Astronomy teacher…"

"I DO NOT MEAN THE CENTAUR!" boomed Fudge, clearly annoyed at Dumbledore's apparent evasion of the point, "although employing half breeds of any kind is questionable. I am referring to – "

"You want to know about the meetings, well: I can assure everyone here that those in attendance were wizards who were met by and assisted your Aurors…and they are certainly not in my employ."

"They seemed very well informed," commented Umbridge, glancing at Fudge whose face was beginning to redden in badly-disguised outrage as she sat down heavily next to Tabitha.

"Indeed they are, most forthcoming were you to question them yourself; I wondered why you had not done so, Cornelius when you had suspicions they were not as they should be. Why were they not interrogated after the Great Battle?"

"It is not for the minister to have to answer questions!" Dolores Umbridge returned hastily to her feet, snapping the reminder of protocol at Dumbledore. "These meetings were illegal, as is the crime of employing half breeds for covert and seditious purposes!"

Dumbledore paused, looking towards Bonaccord's chair as he waited for the echoes of Umbridge's screeched retort to die away. Then he looked back at her, his voice calm and even.

"If I am to defend myself Madam, then I must protest. Meetings between wizards are certainly not illegal…no…" Dumbledore looked thoughtful, "otherwise the entire clientele of the Leaky Cauldron would surely be in Azkaban."

"It is illegal to meet to discuss treasonable things, and to plot subterfuge," replied Fudge hotly, glaring at Dumbledore and daring him to disagree. It would seem Dumbledore had taken the bet – he looked across at Umbridge, the Prosecution to whom, by rights, he should have been directing his defence, before looking back at Fudge.

"Is it illegal for a few old associates and friends to meet up on a regular social basis to discuss…politics…? Current affairs…? The state of the world? Illegal to share deep worries about the rise of an old evil?"

"Well, you will provide us with details of these meetings Dumbledore, especially the details of whom, or indeed what, were attending."

Tabitha watched as Dumbledore smoothed his beard in a way she remembered him doing when she was a student at Hogwarts, usually when he was about to announce something, like the feast, or that a house other than her own (Hufflepuff) had won the House cup, or that someone had mysteriously disappeared and whoever might have played a not-very-funny-now practical joke would be wise to own up now. Fudge however, looked on, resolute.

"That is something that I've already done, and it would appear that the scant evidence requested previously by Undersecretary Umbridge detailing the goings on at our tea parties up until February 24th was inadvertently destroyed by Ministry aurors when we fought Voldermort and the Death Eaters…"

Dumbledore's eyes flitted briefly to the now-lowering head of the chief auror, sitting three places away from Fudge. A whisper began and he nodded his head a couple of times without looking up and Fudge folded his arms in now-evident fury before sitting back down.

"Please continue, Dumbledore," prompted Bonaccord and gestured his hand towards him. Dumbledore nodded graciously.

"…however it is through these events that I admit, I coerced and persuade others to join my foolish attempt to fight Voldermort when I heard he was to arise. I also admit with reference to my defence: that the employment of the muggle Mrs Cecilia Frobisher was for the good of wizards and muggle wizard relations. She was the enticement, with her understanding of science, with which I intended to lure Lord Voldermort. Her discovery of the Universal Link was entirely a serendipitous event."

"You used the female muggle as bait?!" exclaimed Fudge incredulously.

"It was not set out to be, but as we did not know the manner of his return was going to be we knew he would be attracted if he became aware that we were using muggle science to mount an attack."

"I attest that the defendant is sidestepping the issue," declared Umbridge, a glint in her eye as she addressed the Supreme Mugwump. "We need to know details of these meetings!"

"Certainly, I can provide you with first hand recollections from my own memory if you will, Madam Prosecutor, however I am sure the Supreme Mugwump does not expect me to recall every single one right now…I believe they will prove a tad tedious…"

"But the legality…" began Umbridge, but she broke off as the Supreme Mugwump held up a hand.

"I am given to understand," he clarified, in his high-pitched voice, "that a society which deals in wizards socialising is not as yet against the law in Great Britain…" he turned to Dumbledore and continued, "…that will not be necessary, Dumbledore. Please take your seat, Undersecretary…" he added, casting a statuesque stare at Umbridge before glancing at the court usher, prompting confirmation of a name.

"Umbridge," clarified the court usher, staring firmly at her.

"Umbridge," finished Umbridge herself, sitting down firmly. Tabitha felt her exhale in annoyance as she sat next to her, an expression of frustration that Tabitha had heard many times (usually directed at her). Taking hold of the sleeve of Tabitha's best beige robe (Madam Emaness), she clenched it in her grip as she fanned herself with her court parchment theatrically. Fudge was going red in the face too, but unlike Umbridge had remained standing. When he spoke again, Tabitha realised he had changed to a different tack.

"It is in fact a duty to reveal all information to the court as requested," he continued, his voice slightly wavering now as he fought to keep it even, "however I choose to overlook it in favour of a swift resolution of this matter. Now, from what you said previously, regarding your engagement of the muggle – "

" – Mrs Frobisher,"

" – Mrs Frobisher – are we given to understand that you do not deny your role in breaking the law?"

"No indeed I do not deny it," confirmed Dumbledore, nodding slowly. I am the very last Reciprocator. I knowingly contacted a muggle, unknowing to our ways and disclosed the existence of our world to her. I then proceeded to allow her to investigate our world with the object of creating a weapon powerful enough to defeat Lord Voldermort." A wave of ferocious whispering echoed around the court again. Next to Tabitha, Umbridge pulled her closer.

"There. We have him!" she whispered gleefully, letting go of her robe. "He has admitted wrongdoing. Maybe now we will see some action against him." Tabitha nodded dutifully towards Umbridge as she looked around the court, her eyes drawn to the court usher who was waving her hands to indicate silence was required. Tabitha felt Umbridge about to leave her seat to continue with the prosecution but she sat back down quickly as Fudge continued to speak, his tone sombre now, invoking a grave atmosphere to descend upon the proceedings.

"I can recall the day that such a term was described in a court of law like this one here today where a wizard stood, describing the actions of a…Reciprocator…1956, the Goblin Riots," he added hastily, making sure it was clear to Bonaccord to which event he was referring. The Supreme Mugwump indicated his comprehension by nodded briefly.

"And you, Dumbledore, have the audacity to stand here and describe your revival of a role which was made illegal more than two hundred years ago and whose very existence has threatened the exposure and ruin of our world on more than one occasion!"

"Have Reciprocators ever brought about the terror and horror that Voldermort himself has wrought? Have they ever caused wanton destruction and death? In the spirit of Reciprocators both ancient and modern my actions have been only to stop the greatest threat that ever faced our world by employing a muggle to solve it – "

There was a pause, lasting for what seemed like a good hour (but in reality – whatever reality meant here – was probably only a minute or so. Eventually the Minister for Magic spoke.

"Am I given to understand that you believed a muggle could help defeat Lord Voldermort?" The lilt in Fudge's voice seemed to indicate utter incredulity. "It is the working together of muggles and wizards that brought about our divorce…separation was caused through collaboration Dumbledore, rather than unity, or so I am led to believe by my team, whose services I have called upon in order to enrich my scant knowledge of such things. The differences between our races are many; any anthroporcerer could tell you such."

"This is why we had Reciprocators, Cornelius, in order for mutual benefit to both societies. For co-operation and sharing of information."

"This is one thing we don't need," scoffed Fudge, one hand leaning on the dark wooden railing from his position at the front of the Ministry area. "It is such liberty of information that caused a Wizengamot many centuries ago to outlaw such practices, and for a further court to reiterate the dangers to muggles of knowing this information. The 1956 Protection Act was brought about as a direct result of the actions of a so-called…Reciprocator. The muggle population was considered to be at risk."

"More at risk now, wouldn't you agree Cornelius, with the dangers that threaten us all? Would you have us not equip them to deal with their own protection? They are not animals…"

For a moment, Tabitha thought that the Minister had not heard him. Then she watched in horrified fascination as redness flooded his face and he exploded with rage, hardly able to speak.

"You –you are –are you challenging my authority, Dumbledore?" he managed, gripping the railing that he had so casually been caressing moments ago. "You…you…you claim…information has been lost by the Ministry: yes it has. But one thing we do know is that you caused other law-abiding wizards to break the law. However if you claim this collaboration was to aid muggle defence can you deny that one of your "associates and friends" with whom you collaborated was a werewolf?"

A collective gasp whooshed through the court, silenced quickly lest the spectators (the representatives were no longer there merely to witness, they were fully engaged with the drama of the unfolding trial) missed anything vital.

"Indeed I do not; the wizard of whom you speak is in full control of his actions by means of the wolfsbane potion. He is about as much of a danger to muggles than a hat stand."

"Then I believe it is about time that I informed you Dumbledore that under to the new security measures all half breeds, werewolves, vampires, giants, trolls and other such dangerous life-forms must register their existence with us formally. Those who have broken codes of practice to which they are bound will be interrogated and, if necessary, prosecuted…"

Tabitha knew he had gone too far. The smile of triumph that had originally played on his features had been replaced with one of surprise. Tabitha was aware that such a law was coming, but had no idea that it was already in force. The controversial Security Act. From what she had seen it was very bureaucratic and restrictive, far more so than would have been tolerated before February.

Around them the Ministry representatives were awoken from their restful stupor at the sound of the words, turning to one another and voicing the same question that Tabitha herself had posed. A few shouts began as one or two of them who were having difficulty in comprehending exactly what the minister had said were turning to him and Fudge turned to them, a smile of satisfaction lingering momentarily before he spoke.

"As of midnight yesterday the new security laws, for which you have been in possession of a draft copy, come into force regarding protection from dangers to wizarding communities…"

"…protection from half-breeds…" shouted someone.

"If there is no threat to us from You-Know-Who then why this law?"

"…dangerous life-forms…"

"There is no threat, but you know how people panic…"

"…anything that threatens our way of life…"

"…that's sensible…"

"…but did you read the draft, it says…"

"…no! Surely not…"

The chattering got louder, wizards around them bickering and arguing until finally Bonaccord had no alternative than to return to his position standing on his chair. His voice boomed around the courtroom as he pointed his wand to his throat.

"Silence!"

Around Tabitha wizards stopped abruptly, conversations left hanging in mid-sentence as the command from the highest legal ranking wizard in the world pierced their consciousnesses. Even the Inquisitors, who had not spoken amongst themselves, looked decidedly uncomfortable at the proceedings; the Prime Inquisitor looking about her furtively.

As the Supreme Mugwump's command echoed to nothing the Ministry wizards became inanimate, sitting back in their places without question and turning automatically back to the centre of the chamber. All but one. Umbridge got resolutely to her feet.

Smiling briefly at Bonaccord, she nodded towards the court usher flapping her notes so she could see it before glancing down the parchment.

"What was your reason for wanting Mrs Frobisher in particular in Hogwarts, Dumbledore?" Umbridge continued, as if Fudge's declaration of the Act of Ministry had not been divulged. "Was it her expertise as a muggle? A naïve attempt at offering choice and an all round balanced education to our young students? I mean of course, under normal circumstances your motives might be considered perfectly legitimate but surely you can see that your argument does not hold water if you claim that your prime interest was the protection of your students – the children – " here Umbridge looked at the Ministry representatives before turning back to Dumbledore " – in your care. But if that were the case then surely bringing dangerous thinking as well as dangerous events to their school was entirely the opposite of what you claim?"

"As too the new Security Act," replied Dumbledore looking at the Ministry representatives and nodding slowly. "That is indeed a contradiction in terms when those students and the wizard society it asserts to protect includes the non renewal of muggle permits, and a limit of time for those fortunate to have wizarding children…"

This time, thought Tabitha, it was Dumbledore who had gone too far. At the uproar that was now ensuing Fudge raised his hands, indicating he wanted quiet from his employees.

"Yes, yes…for security…" he continued, over the din, "…which is needed considering the actions of Albus Dumbledore, inviting in a muggle to our school, a place of vulnerable underage wizards…"

"I thought that it was wizards who were the danger to muggles," said Dumbledore quietly but Fudge ignored him and continued to address the Ministry wizards.

"Even now the Ministry is overstretched, with employees working tirelessly over lists in order to establish which muggles should know what, altering the damage that has been caused by Dumbledore's foolish actions. In light of the recent security changes and that Dumbledore has been holding meetings of a society composed of wizards to talk about heaven knows what…"

"…the ardent wish of my personal friends and colleagues is for the defence of our world and all we hold dear," replied Dumbledore, addressing Bonaccord, "which hopefully is still legal, under the new security measures…" Tabitha Penwright saw Dumbledore glance across to Bonaccord and she could have sworn the Supreme Mugwump nodded briefly. Then she looked back at the minister who appeared to have concluded that he had said enough on the matter of the Security act.

"The minister didn't say it wasn't, Dumbledore," said Umbridge, returning to her feet and glancing pityingly at Fudge. "We are getting off the point, Supreme Mugwump Bonaccord." Turning towards the defendant Umbridge pushed on.

"Is it, or is it not still illegal to knowingly set up a reciprocal relationship with a muggle?"

Murmurings began now from the Inquisitors, uncertain if her new direct approach was something that they agreed with but they had little time to deliberate as the Prosecutor forged ahead, addressing them now, rather than the Supreme Mugwump, Fudge or Dumbledore.

"Then I ask you, can we not proceed to what is to be done about it, rather than quibble about the legalities? Plainly and simply, Dumbledore has admitted to being a Reciprocator…"

This time, the mutterings that came from the Inquisitors seemed to Tabitha to be more in agreement with Umbridge.

"…then we need to hear full involvement of how the muggle in wizard affairs, Dumbledore."

Triumph. Tabitha could hear it in her superior's voice and she looked across at Bonaccord. Umbridge's forthright stance was clearly what the Supreme Mugwump was looking for. He nodded in Dumbledore's direction and waved a hand.

"Very well." Dumbledore got to his feet. "I employed Mrs Cecilia Jane Frobisher as a scientist. I instructed her to use science to investigate magic with the intent of developing a weapon to use against Lord Voldermort."

"And this was a ruse," promoted Umbridge.

"A what?"

"A ruse, a cover for her other work…" Umbridge folded her arms accusingly. Dumbledore smiled, in apparent comprehension.

"Oh yes, you mean the old muggle medicament that she developed…"

"You allowed her to teach our children – she is a muggle!" declared Umbridge crossly.

"And an excellent teacher she was too; I am sorry to lose her, but aside from her discovering the Universal Link I do have a very effective tincture for my chest."

"You allowed her enough freedom to find the so-called Universal Link!" blasted Fudge, from his hitherto silent position at the front of the court, erupting in a blaze of fury at Dumbledore's evasion of the point. "The connection muggles and wizards!"

"Yes," replied Dumbledore serenely. "During the process of finding my cough remedy; I'd tried everything magical and it was just no use and I recalled a cousin of my mother's talking about a time when he was a lad – "

"I hold it was not!" snapped back Umbridge, the notes in her hand quivering with unalloyed ire. "I hold it was some harebrained scheme involving Harry Potter and He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named…" A cough of surprise came from the Germanic witch from the Inquisitor bench as the court usher got to her feet. Umbridge fell silent.

"From many of these accounts it would appear that Mrs Frobisher attacked He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named in the guise of a Death Eater, having taken a highly concentrated dose of polyjuice potion which left her in a severe state of ill health."

As she spoke, from her position beneath the Supreme Mugwump's chair, all eyes were on Dumbledore, witches and wizards as one holding their collective breath as they awaited confirmation of the wildest story of all to come out of the last four months. Dumbledore looked at Bonaccord before looking round at the expressions of wrapt fascination and awe as the representatives of the British magical community waited. Eventually, arguably the most powerful wizard in the world spoke.

"It is true, Supreme Mugwump. Cecilia Frobisher did indeed face Voldermort with the objective of defeating him at great personal risk; a decision she made entirely alone." Dumbledore's words echoed around the chamber as the motionless atmosphere endured for what to Tabitha seemed like aeons: no-one spoke or moved as the sentence that they had all heard settled into consciousnesses.

"There, well that proves it!" declared Umbridge breaking the silence. From Tabitha's side the large witch got to her feet, gesturing her incredulity. "It's utter ridiculousness – a muggle attacking You-Know-Who? Ha! It wouldn't surprise me if it is all a figment of his imagination!"

From the rising noise of the Ministry representatives around them the debate began to be debated: could a muggle seriously have challenged You-Know-Who? It sounded preposterous…

"Then it is also a figment of the imaginations of these wizards," said the court usher, summoning a towering pile of evidence into the empty space six inches above her hand, the papers higher up swaying and blowing at the higher altitudes.

"Indeed so, madam," continued Dumbledore, nodding towards the usher, "and once it was clear what she was doing I had no choice but to call upon my colleagues, friend and associates to aid her cause. For it was quite outlandish to think that she could survive alone – "

" – we have yet to discuss the legality of the organisation," interrupted Fudge, raising his hand and pointing a finger towards Dumbledore as his face began to redden againwith infuriation, "and why he insists that You-Know-Who has returned…" as he spoke, the pile of papers that the usher had evoked moved slowly in his direction, threatening to spill if an chance breeze should knock it and he eyed them suspiciously as it neared.

"And evidence from a handful of half-blind fools is hardly enough," continued Umbridge, folding her arms in self-acclaimed victory.

"These are from at least fifty wizards who have sworn a testimony that they have seen Lord Voldermort up to as many as twelve days after the events of Feburary 24th, at least a third of whom sighted him before Christmas and during the muggle deaths at Halloween. Although he appears to have gone into hiding, Dolores, he trod his path rather noisily." The usher's words were clear and plain as they had always been when she was addressing the head girl of her house (Ravenclaw, 1952-1959) and Dolores Umbridge shot her a look of detestation but said nothing. Ignoring Umbridge's wordlessness, the usher continued.

"The evidence we have procured cannot be ignored. Whether He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named arose in February at Hogwarts or somewhere else he did arise and terrorised more than a few wizards and muggles, as your own reports from Ministry aurors and befuddlers testify."

"So he did arise, said Umbridge stiffly, an eye on the usher across from her. "That is hereby established, Araminta – " beside her Tabitha felt Umbridge turn, surveying the Ministry wizards before looking over to Fudge, " – the evidence we have procured has been used to only one end…for security.

This made sense, thought Tabitha, nodding slowly to herself as Umbridge's pink-lined robe flapped next to her. They had already wasted so much time searching for Cecilia Frobisher, wading through oceans of paperwork in the process that the Ministry had to act much sooner than expected – a quick fix for everything. It was as Vincento had told her – the Ministry did not want to declare openly that Voldermort was back, and wanted to allay fears. But it also wanted to know what the bloody hell Dumbledore had been up to behind its back, and give him a public slap on the wrists.

Finding Cecilia Frobisher was top priority in order to do both those things. Which made sense that the memos and scraps of information she had been receiving over the past few weeks had been to do with Dumbledore's trial and with locating Cecilia Frobisher – Tabitha recognised within the trial elements of her own work carried out diligently and without error when (she thought testily) she should have been solving her mystery. However, as Umbridge had pointed out, using tones of pitying disappointment that she had reprieved for today's proceedings, that she had failed to actually locate the muggle.

"There is still the matter of the potion, Supreme Mugwump. The potion that the muggle devised for Dumbledore's…illness…which he has yet to produce, as requested, for our examination."

Tabitha was brought back to earth by Fudge's cool, calm words – the Minister was speaking slowly and clearly to Bonaccord again and clearly he wished to explore each matter that had been an obvious nuisance to him over the past few months.

"You mean this?" At the centre of the chamber Dumbledore moved a few steps towards the front of the court, holding up a vial that he had drawn from his pocket. Immediately every wizard and witch present turned their attention to the contents of Dumbledore's right hand.

"Test it out by all means; I'm sure the Department of Mysteries can put aside other less important works to deal with this blend of herbs and sugar." As he spoke Dumbledore tossed it in the direction of Umbridge who caught it as if it were an incendiary device, before passing it towards Tabitha. She looked at the tiny bottle which contained a clear, colourless liquid before stowing it away into her robes, trying to ignore the stares of her colleagues.

"H - how do we know it is what you say it is, Dumbledore?" asked Umbridge.

"You don't trust me Undersecretary Umbridge…? Minister Fudge…?" Dumbledore smiled between them, his expression, Tabitha thought, one of highest sincerity.

"I don't trust a muggle who has concocted goodness knows what, who has been at liberty in our world for heaven knows how long, and has done Merlin knows what to the minds of our children! She is number one most wanted muggle for a reason, Dumbledore, and we need to know the Universal Link – "

"And when I asked you if you wanted to meet her Cornelius, just a few short months ago, you were not inclined to do so even when she was lying in the hospital wing, recovering from injuries sustained in tasks above and beyond the call of duty…"

"Hmph!" Instead of replying, Fudge surveyed the court before returning to his large chair just to the lower right of Bonaccord and he folded his arms firmly. The Supreme Mugwump paused before getting to his feet once more and holding his wand to his throat.

"Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, you now have your defence. Any witnesses you would like to call may now be called and their testimony heard.

"There are none, Supreme Mugwump."

"Is there anything you wish to say in your defence, Albus?" Bonaccord leaned forward, whispering loudly in Dumbledore's direction. As he did so, Dumbledore looked at him, bowing his head solemnly before turning to address the Inquisitors.

"Only this. I am the last Recipocator. I reciprocated the knowledge of a muggle called Cecilia Frobisher who through her work under my jurisdiction at Hogwarts discovered what is being called the Universal Link; that is the link between muggles and wizards.

"Can you believe it?" whispered Umbridge to Tabitha, nudging her just in case she wasn't actually listening to the words that Dumbledore was saying. "He's for it now, that's for sure." Tabitha glanced at her and nodded in agreement before looking back at the chamber floor to where Dumbledore was still giving testimony.

"…also, that on the night of Saturday 24th February 1997 Lord Voldermort attempted to and successfully regained full strength despite numerous attempts to stop him, including from likeminded wizards to myself who believe that whatever the means he should be stopped for the good of everyone. What I have done has been carried out with this assertion – always – borne in mind."

"The Inquisitors will now deliberate." Bonaccord turned to the group of twelve witches and wizards in their plum-coloured robes who had got to their feet and were facing him. "Albus Dumbleodre. On the one hand, if it is decreed by the representatives of the International Wizengamot here today that your testimony against that which the Ministry has supplied is a constructed of fabrications, you will spend the rest of your life in Azkaban, do you understand this?" Dumbledore closed his eyes and nodded his head.

"If it is found that you are telling the truth the charge of Reciprocation, to which you have openly admitted will be hereafter sentenced." Another nod.

"It is worrying to my mind that in Britain there is a muggle loose who is unbefuddled and who knows, well perhaps more than any muggle should know…that leaves the question of how we must decide how to proceed…"

88888888

In the dimly-lit corridor that led from the door of the Wizengamot chamber the Ministry representatives began to mingle. The trial had been called to a halt in order for the Inquisitors under the Supreme Mugwump's direction to discuss the evidence set before them and decide on a course of action. The whole business of deliberation was, as with a National Trial, carried out behind closed doors and once Bonaccord had dismissed all but those dozen witches and wizards chosen to make a judgment over Dumbledore's and other people's fates the two doors to the chamber had been sealed from the inside by the Supreme Mugwump himself.

Not all of the Ministry representatives were happy to mill and mix in the mahogany-panelled hallway however; indeed: even though many of them would be happy to have slunk back off to their offices to meet with colleagues from departments, throw handfuls of green powder into fireplaces or summoned post-imps to dispatch hastily scribbled notes, they were bound by the oath they had borne that morning, which was to witness the full trial in its entirety as impartial observers.

Some of the representatives therefore were engaged in a variety of activities with the hope of staving off the impending boredom that was soon to come: it had been known even with National matters within the Ministry that the court could take a good few hours until they had come to a conclusion, in fact it was not unheard of for Ministry representatives to be left in the corridor for nearly a week (Bannett vs. Ministry, 1922).

Around her, the wizards the who were in the trial were speaking noisily about the proceedings –

unable to retreat from the tomb-like ante-chamber debating, speculating and wondering were the only tools they had, until they were allowed back in.

Tabitha Penwright was amongst one of those who would have been very happy to have returned to her office if only to begin to investigate the new mystery that was residing like a hot stone in her pocket. Pacing along the obsidian-black passageways Tabtha's hand closed around the vial of strange potion, turning it over in the inside of her dress robe as she considered what had transpired in the Grand Trial. It could be a very long wait, with all they had to discuss…

Pacing further down the corridor away from the main throng of wizards Tabitha sought solitude. What was to happen now, she wondered, with everything that had gone on? What would be their verdict? How longer would she be kept from her real work with her mystery if she were to examine this potion and uncover its secrets? Was her own work about to be usurped for this?

Heading round the corner of ante-chamber Tabitha felt a stab of panic in her chest, a feeling of desperation flooded her body. Surely Umbridge wouldn't take her from her mystery? Sure, she was sending her to Hogwarts to teach…what would happen to it…? Lost in thought, she didn't notice the shape next to her until it spoke, making her jump.

"Tabitha?"

She looked towards the lantern-lit main passageway as the figure stepped out the darkness and clapped his hand on her shoulder. Tabitha exhaled with relief when she recognised his face and she smiled for the first time in three hours.

"Vincento! How did you get in here?"

"Secret. Thought I'd find you here, thought you might want this…" From his slim palm a glass of pumpkin juice appeared and he handed it to Tabitha who took it gratefully before perching on the blocks of black stone that lined this minor passageway. Vincento magicked another one and sat next to her.

"You shouldn't be here," she replied, smiling at Vincento again. "It's supposed to be sealed till the Trial's over."

"Thought you might need a chat; saw the Order of Reappointment on your desk," he added, draining his glass

Perhaps it would be prudent to pause here to describe Tabitha's colleague and only friend in the world (which, for an employee of the Department of Mysteries, was a very loose definition). Standing almost six feet tall, with bushy blonde hair and pointed, angular features Vincento had worked in the department of mysteries for almost ten years, having arrived at the Ministry when he came Of Age from the continent with the singular aim of working for the department. Unable to secure an interview for the job he sought Vincento pushed himself to the top of the pile by not only gaining access to the department but also solving Mungo's Riddle, a minor mystery that had, nevertheless, remained unsolved since the formation of the department. There had been a few raised eyebrows at the time; Vincento was a half-elf but, as his abilities to solve mysteries for the Ministry had brought it much wealth his parentage had never been an issue. Which was a good job, he had told Tabitha, for he had been brought up in the elven community as a foundling and no-one there could tell him about his parents either.

"I've been reassigned to Hogwarts," said Tabitha, trying not to let her dejection show in her voice. "Muggle Studies teacher. I'll be solving a mystery though," she added, as Vincento's angled features fixed themselves into a frown and she passed him the vial of potion that Umbridge had hastily thrown to her.

"So you've got to teach," said Vincento dully. "Why they just can't leave people where they're best suited, I really don't know. It was like all that business with the files." In his palm Tabitha watched as he turned the vial over, scrutinising the container carefully. "I hear wizard children are awfully petulant; and who're we going to get replacing you, that's my worry. If they send an Unspeakable, I'll – " Vincento stopped when he saw the expression on Tabitha's face.

"Do you think I want to go? I dread to think what Dolores will do if I argue. Besides, this potion…"

And in hushed tones Tabitha proceeded to describe to Vincento the goings-on in the trial. Once she had finished she smiled at her colleague, waiting for him to respond.

"Blimey," he remarked, shaking his head. His hair swished like linen on a washing line as the wizard considered all that she'd told him. "Never heard anything like it. I wonder what this potion actually is?" Getting to his feet, Vincento opened his slim palm, holding the vial to the lamplight and looked besottedly at the liquid as it shimmered blue-green.

"How was your evidence?" he continued, swishing the option in its bottle now. "How did Umbridge take it when she found out that you hadn't actually located the muggle yet?" Tabitha shook her head, pulling at her cloak, absently.

"They didn't ask for it; it seems like a bloody waste of time having done all of this work, just for it to be ignored. It's not a real trial though; they just want Dumbledore to trip up. It's like a witch-hunt…"

"What, the Christmas game with the blindfold and feather duster?" asked Vincento, confused.

"No, the process of hunting witches in the muggle world, centuries ago," she replied, shaking her head. "Like they're out to convict him and they don't really care what for." As she spoke Vincento turned his head quickly, as if something had just occurred to him.

"So if they implemented the Secrets Act at midnight last night…that figures about Fudge's memo…" Tabitha stared at him, waiting intently for him to continue.

"We had a memo this morning, signed by Fudge himself, telling us that any information that we were working on should cease and we were to continue with our proper jobs. They sent caretakers in to remove the files…one mentioned they'd been told to destroy all the information, especially that provided by members of the Order of the Phoenix…" Tabitha stared at him in disbelief.

"Are you sure?" she asked, continuing to stare back at Vincento, and he nodded.

"Why?"

"Because he's doing it by the book, that's why. They spent an awful amount of time talking about secret meetings Dumbledore and other wizards were having. It makes sense because the only way for Fudge to have the outcome he wants is to pull a few strings…"

This time it was Vincento who was nodding at Tabitha in disbelief.

"Exactly," said Tabitha, pulling on his dark blue robes. "Well, at least I'm still solving a mystery. At least she's not condemned me to a desk job, or worse, a squib job…"

"You're not a squib," replied Vincento quickly. "It's because of your talents that you are a Mysteriour. They don't just let anyone solve mysteries, you know." Tabitha nodded slowly. "I just – "

"There you are, Penwright!" Tabitha spun round to her right in fright as Dolores Umbridge came striding towards her. "Why are you off skulking round here?" Pacing heavily towards Tabitha, she looked past her, frowning in confusion as if looking at something that she thought was there. Tabitha said nothing, trying to make her expression as innocent as she could as Umbridge's expression returned to mild admonishment of her absence.

"You won't be able to hear the calling in," she continued, folding her arms headmistress-like. "Have you got the potion there?"

A terror began to creep over Tabitha as she realised that, until Umbridge's unannounced intrusion Vincento had been looking at it. Turning to face her boss, Tabitha patted against the outside of her robes distractedly, wondering how to break it to her, and wondering what the consequences would be.

"Good," Umbridge replied, pushing up her spectacles and smiling a little. "You'll be able to report your progress to me when you get down to work." Smiling wider, Umbridge took a few more steps near her, sitting down and speaking to her as if sharing a confidence.

"You know, returning to your school, and solving this – " Umbridge leaned towards Tabitha's robe as if she were about to touch it before withdrawing her hand hastily. "Your late development…this opportunity…" she leaned back from Tabitha, who felt her head sagging automatically at the neck in response to her superior's reminder of her faults in her light, airy tone, "this will be your chance to make up for those inadequacies. You'll be able to more than make up for your failure in locating the muggle…" she shook her head despairingly. "Just think, you won't have to think about your past mistakes because now…now you'll be teaching…and showing the whole of the wizarding world what you're made of!"

Leaning over to Tabitha, Umbridge turned her head with one large hand, tilting her chin to look a her in the manner of a mother soothing a post-tantrum child. Despite herself, Tabitha nodded and smiled.

"Of course, Dolores," she replied automatically, trying not to let the rebellious thoughts at the back of her mind forge a route through to her cerebellum and then on to her mouth.

"Good," nodded Umbridge, getting back to her feet, clearly happy with her pacification. "Now, when you're ready you should make your way back round to the court door. I should dearly appreciate your support again when we recommence."

Tabitha continued to nod as Umbridge departed with a small wave before breathing a sigh of relief when she saw the last of her pink sash disappear back round the corner.

"Vincento?" she whispered, looking furtively around. "Are you still there…oh!" She jumped as she felt her friend's hand on her shoulder again, this time on her right-hand side when she was looking left.

"I just don't know why you don't stand your ground, Tabitha," said Vincento, handing her the vial of potion as he shook his head in disbelief. "You should – you're as good as any of us. In fact you're better. You solved the Gringotts mystery…"

Tabitha looked down again, biting back the urge to deny his claim, trying not to let the treacherous thoughts in her mind bubble to the surface. She knew that she was a soft touch, someone who strong-willed people pushed around. She also knew that she shouldn't be like that but…how do you change the habit of a lifetime…?

All she wanted was to be left alone, not be involved in all of this…not solving a potion mystery…and certainly not leaving the department to go to Hogwarts…

Instead of saying anything she turned and smiled at her friend, her eyes glimmering with embryonic tears that she didn't wish to share with him.

"Thanks, Vin; you always make me feel better."

"Well, when you're gone, just remember you're a Mysteriour first and foremost…" Tabitha smiled at Vincento, who returned it. It wasn't just any old smile, but conveyed more meaning than probably any other. It meant: we're different. Only a Mysteriour can understand a Mysteriour.

The noise behind them made Tabitha jump, and Vincento got to his feet.

"Look, I'd better go. She's coming back…" Before Tabitha's eyes Vincento faded, and she smiled at her friend. Only a Mysteriour knows a Mysteriour…

It was a good two minutes before Umbridge harried Tabitha back round to the doors, insisting she enter and sit by her when they took their places before Araminta the usher called the tired and irritable Ministry wizards back into the courtroom.

88888888

Twelve hours before the conclusion of one wizard trial another meeting, a Wizengamot of sorts (because ultimately it was a grand judgment made by a powerful wizard) also drew to a conclusion. Unlike the Grand Trial, the proceedings at this meeting were not recorded in any official (or unofficial) books or paperwork and neither is most of its content repeatable.

Not repeatable to his wife at any rate; Lucius Malfoy was already editing the proceedings that he had engaged in with the Dark Lord as he walked stiffly through the night in order to make it acceptable for his wife's ears. Usually, he wouldn't have bothered for Narcissa Malfoy was normally only cared to know about things that would affect their son.

The night was dark; the moon was shrouded in a thick covering of cloud and the wind was whipping sporadically through the hedges and trees. Walking back in the darkness through the Wiltshire countryside Malfoy recalled the evening that had just unfolded around them.

The Dark Lord, powerful and mighty, disclosed in veiled, hushed tones to the remainder of his followers the details of his survival. It wasn't pretty, far from it. However as the Dark Lord himself had pointed out, his situation had been far worse than this and he had proceeded to instruct those faithful few that had answered the Call (those who had not been killed in battle, imprisoned in Azkaban or gone into hiding) in the individual tasks they must fulfil.

It was slow progress as Lucius Malfoy headed home. His body ached from his trek that has been nearly fifteen miles on foot and the injuries he sustained during his master's failed uprising had slowed his progress somewhat. But it had to be on foot – any sign magical transport and he would be suspected: oh, he could talk his way out of it that was for sure, however…

Ahead of him the lights of Malfoy Manor loomed, like beacons drawing Malfoy nearer and nearer to home. Nearer to his family to whom he must break the news…

...Bellatrix had been there, of course. What, other than Azkaban prison could prevent her from being by her master's side, ready to do his bidding? Other than his sister-in-law only three others (including himself) had attended. But the Dark Lord had not been in a state of being to castigate those present for those who were not and the missions he had assigned to each of them had been conveyed quickly and to the point. To one however, there were still questions that they – his followers – needed answering.

"They have many weapons my Lord, as the muggle has testified," Rabastan Lestrange had reminded their master and Malfoy had wondered whether challenging Voldermort in such a manner was not entirely the wisest thing to do. However their Lord had merely laughed and dismissed his worries.

"But…you let her escape, my Lord…" Wormtail's voice had quavered despite their master's pitiful situation and had whimpered into silence as Voldermort had laughed horribly.

"…you think I could not have killed her?" In his mind's ear Malfoy could hear his master's voice mock as Wormtail had questioned him. "I let her escape in my desire to acquire the potion in her possession. A unique muggle, yes but hardly immortal. My dear Wormtail, I need her alive in order to overcome the many facets of this so-called muggle science. It is just another facet to be explored and overcome before I regain my full power."

And there had been his own task…

…in his mind he could hear his wife now, raging and screaming when she heard the news. He could see his prized 200-year-old family porcelain, more of it becoming worthless shards by the second as he stood in his own living room watching…

He wouldn't tell her he had more or less been draw into his task, by the Dark Lord demanding he told himself and the other three faithful followers what exactly Malfoy could offer him, or that he'd been provoked to a certain extent, into the deal.

The lights sparkling ahead lit in the rooms of his house (which would ordinarily spell welcome and sanctuary) invoked fear and uncertainty, for Malfoy knew that telling Narcissa was infinitely worse than the unpleasant experience of crossing the Dark Lord...

…these were times of war; things had to be sacrificed. She would have to understand…

88888888

It was a good ten minutes since the Ministry representatives had been seated before the Inquisitors, followed by the court usher, and finally the Supreme Mugwump returned to the courtroom. Before them Dumbledore already sat, in the chair in the centre of the chamber waiting patiently and attentively, his hands folded in his lap over the very end of his beard. It unnerved Tabitha to see him so still; it seemed unnatural. If it had been her who was sitting there instead of him she knew she would be most agitated and nervous.

Pierre Bonaccord retook his seat above the rest of the court, waiting for the Inquisitors to take their seats before sitting himself, an unspoken signal to the rest of the court that the conclusion of the trial had begun.

The mumbling of the wizards around Tabitha fell to nothing as the Prime Inquisitor got to her feet, retrieving the parchment that the usher had levitated to her waiting hand. She looked round the court before waiting for the Supreme Mugwump to give her leave to continue.

"If we accept that Voldermort has returned," began the Prime Inquisitor in her clipped, Germanic accent, "which we do not, then we have to accept that a muggle was brought to Hogwarts to provide you with medicine, and her involvement with other wizards with whom you had been communicating was her own decision." Fixing her eyes on Dumbledore, the Prime Inquisitor continued, seemingly unaware that the Ministry wizards were leaning towards the centre of the chamber, determined not to miss a word.

"We, an Inquisition of your peers chosen from the wizarding colonies of the world find the defendant Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore guilty of Reciprocation." Before the Prime Inquisitor, the words she was speaking were inscribing themselves on the official court notes that she was holding.

A stunned silence echoed around the chamber. Thoughts raced through Tabitha's mind as she tried to take in what she had heard. Dumbledore was guilty…they'd found him guilty. What now…? Would he be imprisoned in Azkaban…? Had he been removed from Hogwarts…? She strained past the heads of the wizards in front of her so she could follow everything that was happening.

"We turn to the Supreme Mugwump to pass sentence." The Prime Inquisitor levitated the parchment towards Pierre Bonaccord, the flower in his hat somewhat droopier, Tabitha noticed, than when he'd taken his seat above them all that morning.

"You have been found guilty of Reciprocation, a practice that is illegal under the laws of your country. Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, you are hereby fined G200, to be paid in full."

Bonaccord removed his wand, levitating the parchment down to the usher which now contained the sentence that he had just proclaimed and she folded it neatly before placing it inside a small black pouch.

The tidal wave of outrage did not start immediately; indeed it was a good minute before the protestations began. Tabitha said nothing as she felt the noise crescendo to a din and she noticed a surprised Bonaccord retake his seat in above them whence he was about to depart. Dumbledore, she noticed, had neither moved nor spoken throughout the entire time they had been there. Was the leniency of the sentence a reflection on Cornelius Fudge's irregular announcement of the Secrecy Act, Tabitha wondered?

"Clearly there are matters to be discussed, over which I am obliged to preside." Bonaccord's squeaky voice penetrated the commotion that the Ministry wizards were making. "Minister Fudge, perhaps you could disclose your rather clear remonstrations in response to the finding and sentence of the court?" Tabitha turned and saw that Fudge was on his feet, and was addressing the Supreme Mugwump, before levitating a rather large piece of parchment over to Bonaccord.

"A call for all organisations to be disbanded and made illegal…" Bonaccord read from the document before looking back at Fudge. "Of course you may do this yourself Minister; you have the right to introduce any law prohibiting this, but must be prepared for wizards to be arrested when they set foot into the bar on the fifth floor in the Ministry of Magic…what is the name of the establishment…?"

"The Witch's Finger," declared one of the Inquisitors from the back row.

"Indeed," added Bonaccord, striking a line through the first point on Fudge's list.

"That the details of the Universal Link be disclosed to your Ministry…hm…could you explain to me the logic of this point, Fudge?" The Minister for Magic got to his feet, calmly addressing the Supreme Mugwump, his posture and demeanour more stateswizard-like, as Tabitha recalled him looking the first day that she met him.

"When it is finally confirmed that Lord Voldermort is finally defeated, that may be a time when we can allow ourselves the freedom to investigate our links with the muggle population. In the meantime I propose that the information is kept within our Department of Mysteries until such time presents itself and for safekeeping before it is thoroughly investigated and it had been decided how we are going to incorporate it into our magical thinking."

"Then we will find it first," whispered Dolores Umbridge, her face close to Tabitha's ear, "when you go to Hogwarts. You will find it, Penwright, and bring it back to the Department for security."

Tabitha nodded dismally and sighed inwardly. How long was this trial actually going to last now, when at every turn her role was growing deeper and more involved?

"Now the question of the muggle…what is the verdict of your own inquiry, Minister Fudge?" The Supreme Mugwump looked over his to Fudge, who looked at Umbridge. Umbridge got to her feet and addressed Bonaccord directly.

"The muggle Cecilia Frobisher has not been found. Indeed, it has been very hard to gain even a local trace on her – " Umbridge paused, ignoring the snort from behind them, "despite our hardest efforts and expertise being used – "

Tabitha felt her face going red; Umbridge was obviously referring to the copy of her report that she had sent to her by post imp that morning in which she had declared that after weeks of trawling through vast amounts of leads Cecilia Frobisher had not been found.

" – the locating the muggle's whereabouts has been the highest priority in terms of wizard safety since her existence was known…" Umbridge looked across at Fudge loyally, "…and the Minister has, in his wisdom, rectified the problem with the introduction of the Security Act…"

"Hm…" nodded Bonaccord, nodding in acknowledgement of Umbridge's clarification, before looking back to Fudge's list. Tabitha watched as Bonaccord cast a look towards Dumbledore and she realised the headmaster of her soon-to-be new place of work had still not moved or spoken.

"I understand, " the Supreme Mugwump glanced back at Fudge's list, "that you are not to be short of a Muggle Studies teacher for long, Dumbledore – "

"Indeed, Supreme Mugwump," continued Umbridge, who was still on her feet and clearly intent on making everything on Fudge's list as plain as possible. "As a representative of the Ministry Miss Tabitha Penwright," here, Umbridge looked introductorily at her and Tabitha felt her face blush as the wizards, as a man, turned to look at her, "has been assigned by the Ministry to teach the subject.

"Dumbledore?" Bonaccord looked towards the defendant, as if noticing for the first time since the recommencement of the trial that he had not spoken.

"I, and the rest of my teaching staff, will be happy to welcome Undersecretary Umbridge and Miss Penwright at Hogwarts school as per the decree sent by Minister Fudge, in spite of the fact that neither has any teaching experience." Bonaccord looked across to the Ministry representatives and in reply, Umbridge spoke again.

"By your own admission, Dumbledore you have professed the importance of Muggle Studies, enough to make it examinable. We, that is the Ministry, wish merely to dispense the curriculum carefully and therefore bridge the gap between wizards and muggles in a measured, prescribed way. Miss Penwright is more than familiar with the required material."

The court fell silent. Umbridge remained standing as Bonaccord looked across at Fudge before returning his gaze to Dumbledore. Between the two wizards a conversation of unspoken dialogue was taking place.

"Therefore you accept that the position of Muggle Studies is now under the jurisdiction of the Ministry in its entirety, including staffing and curriculum?" This time it wasn't Bonaccord who was addressing Dumbledore it was Fudge. Dumbledore nodded once, more of a bow than a nod, Tabitha thought and Umbridge her cast a triumphant look before looking back at Bonaccord. The Supreme Mugwump appeared to have finished Fudge's list.

"He-hm."

Disturbed from his imminent summary of this Full Trial, Pierre Bonaccord turned to the Ministry representatives in search for the owner of the cough.

"Madam Prosecutor?" Umbridge was wearing an expression of innocence and had raised her hand in compliance.

"Before you continue, Supreme Mugwump, there is just one more point that we, that is the Ministry, would like resolved." She paused and waited for her cue from Bonaccord, who had since sat down whilst scrutinising Fudge's list.

"Continue Madam."

"Miss Penwright – " she indicated Tabitha again, much to her embarrassment, " – I feel, since her time at Hogwarts itself was not entirely – " perhaps she could feel Tabitha's radiant agony as she spoke because Umbridge then changed her tack, " – to ensure the Universal Link is preserved for future wizarding generations to come Miss Penwright should be given liberty to the resources from which the muggle Cecilia Frobisher benefited."

"Certainly. That goes without saying." Dumbledore had risen from his chair and was now standing at full height as he addressed Umbridge before smiling briefly in acknowledgement at a now mortified Tabitha. The Ministry wizards around them sat silently, but looked across at her too.

"So, there is just one more issue to address," he concluded in his high-pitched tones, looking at the last point on Fudge's list. "Cecilia Frobisher is, despite her service to the wizard world, is also in breach of many laws, ones which are fundamental to keeping our world safe that the Minister for Magic has taken the precaution of introducing a new law to protect wizards. I understand that the hunt for Cecilia Frobisher has floundered?" He looked across at Fudge who in turn looked at Umbridge. Dolores Umbridge nodded slowly.

"The muggle will be located and befuddled," concluded Bonaccord simply and made to get to his feet. "Case dis – "

But before Bonaccord could dismiss the court there was a commotion from the back of the representatives punctuated with a shout.

"Who is holding this court in contempt?!" Bonaccord was now indignant: not only had he been called out of retirement to preside over a weak case against a highly respected peer, but he had been obliged to make judgements over homeland issues. Now, someone had the audacity to delay him further. He looked at the group of Ministry wizards, scanning their group for the dissenter.

"Ministry wizard, do you have something to say?"

At the front of the group now, Arthur Weasley had managed to push his way through the crowd and was now standing, red faced, at the front of the court.

"This is highly irregular, Weasley," blustered Fudge, but Bonaccord held up his hand.

"Why does Mrs Frobisher have to be befuddled? Surely muggles and wizards have long forged relations with each other? Muggle-born children are proof enough of that, aren't they?"

"I believe you are already married, Mr Weasley," said Fudge, glancing over his shoulder at a tall, thin Ministry employee sitting behind him who was turning as red as beetroot. "Weatherby, isn't that your father?" Percy Weasley nodded stiffly, his slowly reddening face clashing violently with his hair.

"Not me," Arthur added hastily, "but who is to call their relationship into question, especially since – " he glanced at Dumbledore, his forthright opposition faltering as he made eye contact. "That…that's all I have to say, My Lord." Mr Weasley bowed and nodded at Bonaccord before sitting awkwardly on a wizard next to him, mistaking him for an empty seat.

"It is settled then." From underneath Bonaccord's chair the court usher spoke, clearly and smoothly. "According to International Magical Law laid down by the Council of Warlocks in 1489 muggles who willingly enter into relations with wizards are exempt from Befuddlement."

"So!" thundered Fudge, "she's in a relationship with a wizard, is she?" He glared at Dumbledore menacingly. "Therefore it must have been registered with the Ministry. If it is not, it is not recognised, and if it was not recognised as of midnight yesterday then, due to the Security Act she must be befuddled!"

"You are forgetting one thing, Cornelius," declared Dumbledore, resigning his muteness for clarity for the whole of the court to hear. "She was in a relationship with a wizard before midnight last night, and has been so for many months. As you have pointed out on frequent occasions I was Mrs Frobisher's employer, and as such I am well prepared to sign any document you care to produce, to that effect."

"This does indeed put a different light on my verdict," continued Bonaccord wearily as muttering from the Ministry wizards began again. "I – " But Dolores Umbridge was back on her feet again, staring at the Supreme Mugwump intently.

"Madam Prosecutor…?" Dolores shunted her spectacles up her nose in a swift no-nonsense gesture and she cleared her throat dramatically.

"Cecilia Frobisher in a relationship with a wizard is beside the point," she declared, clicking her fingers and making a small sheet of parchment appear in her left hand. "Minister, despite the sanctity and affairs of the heart, we are talking about one muggle whose knowledge of our world puts us all in jeopardy." She giggled a little as if the thought had just occurred to her.

"Forgive me in my naivety Minister, being a single woman, but can all relationships be cast above our own security? Can we sacrifice the stability of our world for one muggle who, by all accounts, has traversed the commonly accepted bounds we have put in place, who has been invited to traverse them? We are talking about one life, for thousands of wizard lives." She smiled confidently at Fudge, before adding, "and a muggle life at that!"

The entire courtroom erupted in a deluge of protestations. All of the wizards, including now the Inquisitors were talking, arguing, chatting, and generally disagreeing about the point that Umbridge had raised. In amongst the rowdiness Bonaccord on his feet in an attempt to gain order, but even with voice amplification he was having trouble being heard. Eventually he turned his wand outwards and two warning bolts shot out of it, their red firework bangs shocking the wizards into silence.

"I will have order! I will not allow such contempt and insubordination! This is a Grand case! Do not interrupt again!" Straightening his hat, and aligning the flower in the brim, Pierre Bonaccord waited for the wizards to be seated and settled before continuing.

"Now if you will let me finish." He surveyed the now still audience of wizards, taking in the Minister for Magic, the Prosecutor and Dumbledore. "From the evidence brought before me in relation to your hearing today Dumbledore, no other muggle has so boldly trod their way into the lives if wizards and has managed to remain undetected. This is a situation which is not tolerable." He turned to the Inquisitors before looking back at Dumbledore.

"I is the decision of this court under my judgment that the muggle, Cecilia Frobisher will be befuddled. This befuddlement will be carried out by yourself, Dumbledore, or someone you see fit to befuddle her in a permitted manner, bringing with you her memories for storage."

"Well, you leave me with a dilemma, Supreme Mugwump." Dumbledore nodded gravely in Bonaccord's direction. "You see, I would be very much inclined to carry out this verdict however…I have absolutely no idea where I can find Mrs Frobisher…" Around them, the chattering from the Ministry representatives began again. "Muggles are very hard to find when they want not to be found; it is primarily their world, after all."

Bonaccord sighed. This was not how he had intended his Saturday to go. By now, he should be finishing a post-prandial brandy in the "Three Wyrd Ones", not negotiating with a young whippersnapper about the location or marital status of a muggle. Getting to his feet (which symbolised the end of a Wizengamot Trial) Bonaccord stood firm and fixed Dumbledore with a stare.

"Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, you are charged as her employer to bring the memories that are hers within a week. The Ministry clearly require the secrets of muggle science and the peace of mind that security within this realm has not been compromised."

Silence reigned for just a few moments, but before Bonaccord could leave the chamber, Dumbledore looked at him.

"And if I refuse?"

"You are in no position to refuse. If you do not carry out this order you will be in breach of this judgment. Then you will be sent to Azkaban and we will procure the information in a less than permitted manner to procure the information we require from Cecilia Frobisher."

"If you refuse Dumbledore, we will send a dementor…

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A/N: This has been a very difficult chapter to write – I endeavour to update more often from now on.