Author's Notes: Bold text is taken from pages 731-734 of the American edition of The Order of the Phoenix. Again, I have chosen to use JKR's original work, but modify it for my own purposes. I apologize; I was a little later than I had hoped to be with this chapter. I repeat that this not, and was not ever intended to be, canon in regards to plotline.

Thank you to those who reviewed the previous chapter and a Happy New Year to everyone.

Chapter 11:

Hermione's eyes raced across her History of Magic textbook, but she found herself unable to remember so much as a single sentence of what she had just read. Instead, her mind focused on the conspicuous empty seats at the staff table. Dolores Umbridge smiled triumphantly down at the students from the Head's gilded chair while the space at her right, Professor McGonagall's usual place, and Hagrid's seat at the end nearest the Gryffindor table silently proclaimed the increasing cost of her reign. The students, however, were far from silent on the subject. All around her, students exchanged information obtained from those few students who dared to hide themselves within hearing distance last night and speculation about what would happen next.

"Hermione!" Ron snapped his fingers in front of her face to get her attention. Seated across from her, he knocked over a basket of rolls in the process.

"What is it, Ron?" she demanded as he righted the basket and tossed the rolls back in. "I'm trying to study."

"How can you study at a time like this?" asked Ron. "When that Toad has gotten McGonagall arrested and Hagrid on the run?" He made a rather unsavory gesture at Umbridge. Ordinarily, Hermione would have scolded him. Considering the person at whom it was directed, she made an exception.

"Professor McGonagall told us to concentrate on finishing our exams. I'm not giving Umbridge any ammunition against Professor McGonagall by doing poorly on the O.W.L.s." Resolutely, she returned her attention to the book propped up against the milk jug. In 1871, the rules of dueling were altered to strictly forbid the use of Memory charms after an unfortunate incident involving the heir to the Crouch estate.

"Pass the muffins, Ron," said Harry as he sat down on Hermione's left.

Discontented with Hermione's reaction, Ron engaged Harry in a virulent tirade of abuse against Umbridge. Hermione heard the phrases "fat toad," "bloody idiot," and "Ministry moron" repeated frequently. After reaching the conclusion that Dolores Umbridge deserved to be immersed in Snape's nastiest potion and then thrown to the giant squid, the idea of revenge was glistening in their eyes. Judging by the uproar emanating from the rest of Gryffindor House, revenge appeared to be the central theme of discussion.

"No mercy!" declared Lee Jordan from a few seats down. "Let's make that Ministry dolt regret ever messing with Gryffindor!" Cheers of "Here, here" echoed up and down the length of the table.

"Oh for goodness' sake, if you don't lower your voices, she'll hear you," Hermione cried out exasperated, slamming her book shut. "Professor McGonagall won't want us to give Umbridge more excuses to punish us."

"We can't just sit back and do nothing!" exclaimed Ginny.

"I'm not saying that, Ginny. Look, we need to do this properly and that means making sure that Umbridge can't pin anything on any individual student and that she can't use our actions against Professor McGonagall." With most of the nearby Gryffindors listening in, Hermione continued in a quieter voice, "We have to work together. And it would help if we could enlist members of Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff. I've already talked to their fifth year prefects and they are upset too. The more people involved, the better. Umbridge can't be everywhere at once and Filch is stuck shuttling students across the swamp."

"What about the other professors?" asked Colin Creevey, glancing up at the staff table.

"Well, none of them look very pleased with the Headmistress at the moment," remarked Kenneth Towler. That was an obvious understatement. All of staff wore stony expressions that nevertheless radiated anger towards the Ministry official in their midst.

"I don't think they'll interfere unless it affects them directly," said Hermione. "Now, since today is the last O.W.L. exams, we shouldn't do anything drastic until after it is over. Start thinking of ideas and we can discuss plans in the common room tonight. Make sure that everyone knows, alright?" Hermione watched her suggestions being passed down the table for a minute and then faced Harry and Ron who were gazing at her with awe.

"What?" she demanded.

"It's just...well…you are actually supporting breaking school rules," stammered Ron. Hermione shot him a scorching glare.

"If you don't remember Ron, I thought of the D.A. first." Sensing the potential start of another bout of bickering between the two, Harry chose to stay silent.

"I know, but…this is bigger than that. I never thought I would live to see the day when you approved of breaking rules."

"Oh shut up, Ron."

At the staff table, Filius and Pomona observed the commotion at the Gryffindor table as well as the somewhat more muted reactions of the other Houses. Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff both clearly shared Gryffindor's outrage at the treatment of the Deputy Headmistress. Predictably, the Slytherin table appeared divided between indifference and delight at Professor McGonagall's removal.

"I wonder what they're plotting," said Pomona to Filius. The pair had managed to secure seats far enough away from Dolores to enable them to converse without being overheard.

"Something utterly magnificent I'm sure," replied Filius. "I do believe our dear esteemed Headmistress might be in for a series of surprises over the coming few days."

"Gryffindor does have an astonishing sense of House loyalty, doesn't it Professor Flitwick? It's positively heartwarming and I'm pleased to see that my Hufflepuffs and your Ravenclaws are supporting Minerva's House in their time of crisis."

"I couldn't agree more, Professor Sprout. Dear me, our Headmistress seems to be having difficulty filling her plate." Every time Umbridge reached for a dish on the table, it promptly vanished. Ordering Septima, who was closest, to pass her the plate of sausages, Umbridge smirked triumphantly. Much to her disappointment and frustration, the sausages vanished from the plate as soon as it touched the tips of Dolores' fingers. Futilely attempting this maneuver several more times to the concealed amusement of the staff, Dolores finally conceded defeat.

"Velda!" barked Dolores, referring to the house-elf in charge of the kitchens. No answer was forthcoming. "Velda! Velda!" Dolores turned to Severus with a simpering smile, "Professor Snape, would you do me the favor of summoning Velda. There is a problem with the service that must be addressed."

"I have noticed that. Velda," called Severus. A pop sounded and Velda materialized beside the Slytherin's chair. With round ears and a button nose, the house-elf bowed to the Potions master.

"How can Velda be of assistance, Professor?" she said in the characteristically high-pitched tones.

"Headmistress Umbridge has had difficulty transferring any food to her plate, Velda."

"Ah, yes, Professor." The house-elf rotated to confront Dolores directly. "Our apologies, Madam Umbridge, we is making your breakfast extra special."

"Good, Velda. I expect such singular treatment as Headmistress, a fact I have tried to impress upon you in the past," said Dolores with her usual arrogance.

"Quite. It is done now," stated Velda. She clicked her fingers and a plate appeared in front of Dolores. Another click announced Velda's departure as the pungent odor of burnt bacon, eggs, and toast wafted over the staff table.

"Excuse us," choked out Aurora as she, Charity, and Septima rose and hastened to exit the Great Hall. Filius thought he heard giggles as the door swung shut. If Dolores wants 'singular treatment,' I trust the house-elves will be obliging her in every possible way, thought Filius. Wonderful creatures, house-elves. Filius strongly suspected that the house-elves would ensure that Dolores was deprived of every creature comfort and luxury, forcing the toady to survive on what they considered bare necessities. I do hope they deem a mattress a luxury. I think it would do Dolores good to sleep on the stone floor. Without a single pillow or blanket. I can hardly wait to see what the students determine as fitting punishment for Dolores. Peeves will certainly join in and I would not be surprised if St. Nicholas and some of the other ghosts help as well. I hope everyone is able to attend the council I've called at morning break. We need to plan our own strategy.


While the students, staff, and even ghosts of Hogwarts conspired against Dolores, Molly Weasley arrived a little before noon at Grimmauld Place to prepare for a meeting hurriedly scheduled for that evening. In the kitchen, she found Sirius, Remus, and Emmeline Vance discussing the news.

"Emmeline, I didn't expect to see you here," Molly said after exchanging good mornings.

"Since I'm not on rotation today, I thought I might as well spend the day here. You're very early too. Have you seen the today's Prophet? Utter and complete rubbish, that's what it is."

"I didn't want to sit around the house idle. As for the Prophet, I threw it straight on the fire after I saw the headline," answered Molly.

"They're calling Professor McGonagall a traitor to the country! Can you believe it? They're saying how commendable that, that woman is for discovering McGonagall's disloyalty and what astonishing foresight the Minister had to appoint Umbridge and give her jurisdiction over Hogwarts." Emmeline snorted, "Blooming idiots. I'd check for spell damage if I was their family Healer. They demonstrate a distinct lack of functioning brain matter."

"I couldn't agree more, Emmeline," said Remus. "Here, Molly, let me help you."

"Thank you, Remus," Molly said as he began unpacking and putting away the contents of the grocery sacks. "I thought I would do a sort of buffet for tonight as most people probably won't want a sit-down dinner."

"Sounds wonderful," contributed Sirius, getting up to help as well.

"Get off your feet, Molly, and let the boys finish the job," said Emmeline. As Molly sat down, Emmeline poured and fixed her a cup of tea. "When did you find out?"

"This morning. There was a letter from Dumbledore on the kitchen table when Arthur and I came downstairs. What about you?"

"Same here. I had to reread it twice in order to make myself believe it. And it was very scarce on the details. All it said was the Rubeus had been forced to flee, Professor McGonagall was arrested for treason, and to meet at Grimmauld at seven tonight. Do you two know anything more?" she queried Remus and Sirius.

"Not really," replied Sirius, "Fawkes brought us a note from Dumbledore early this morning. He told us he had called an emergency meeting for this evening and of the circumstances, but nothing else." Having completed unpacking, he and Remus took their seats.

"Severus must have been the one to inform him," concluded Remus.

Sirius harrumphed, "I bet he enjoyed that. A true Slytherin triumph."

"I wouldn't be so sure, Sirius," said Remus. Sirius stared at him. "Despite outward appearances, Severus and Minerva share an understanding of a sort. I don't know if you would call it a typical friendship, but they respect each other and Severus appears to tolerate if not prefer her company more than any other staff member's." Sirius looked slightly aghast at this prospect, but before he could reply, a massive crash and Mrs. Black's shrieks sounded from the entryway.

"That must be Tonks," remarked Emmeline.

"I'll go make sure she's alright," volunteered Remus, hurrying out of the room. Molly and Emmeline exchanged knowing looks. Sirius just smirked.

"Thanks Remus, Wotcher, Molly, Emmeline, Sirius," said Tonks as she entered the kitchen trailed by Mad-eye Moody and Remus.

"Morning," growled Alastor as he and Tonks claimed seats.

"Hello, Alastor. Shouldn't you be at work, Tonks?" asked Molly.

"I'm taking a long lunch. Besides, no one is going to notice if I'm not there in all the chaos."

"What's happening?" queried Emmeline.

"All hell is breaking loose. I take it Dumbledore sent everyone the same message about Hagrid and McGonagall?" At their nods, Tonks swept her hair, strawberry red today, back from her face and continued, "Well, I only found about a dozen Howlers on my desk this morning to begin with. And that was just me. Then, half of the Aurors threatened to quit once they had heard about McGonagall. On top of that, Madame Chevalier, you know the Ministre de la Défense de la France, stormed into our offices right before I left. She didn't look too happy although I can't imagine why she's here."

"Minister Chevalier and McGonagall are good friends," rumbled Moody. "McGonagall worked with Chevalier to scent out several Death Eaters and their supporters in France."

"That would explain it," said Tonks. "At least, Madam Bones instructed us to forward the Howlers to the Minister. She said that since he had made the decision, he could deal with the consequences."

"I think the Minister might be beginning to get an inkling of the furor he has incited," Remus said.

"I certainly hope so. Tonks, Alastor, would you like something to eat?"

"If it's not too much trouble, Molly," answered Tonks. "I'll help."

"No, no, dear, you sit down. I'll make sandwiches." Molly rose and began bustling around the kitchen. Sirius retrieved a pack of cards, coercing Remus and Tonks into playing a game of Exploding Snap. Moody and Emmeline launched into a discussion of curses and their effects.


Number 3: Describe the circumstances that led to the Treaty of Lorraine between the English and French Ministries of Magic in 1815 and explain the ramifications of said treaty.

Number 7: Explain what provoked the Salem Witch Trials of 1692 and describe the effects of these trials on the Wizarding world at large.

Number 12: Illustrate the history of the separation of the Magical and Muggle worlds from the founding of Hogwarts to the present day using a minimum of ten, but no more than fifteen, significant events as examples. On every question, Hermione scribbled furiously, rapidly filling up the space provided and forcing her to resort to the back side of the parchment to finish her answers. Absorbed completely in her examination, she failed to notice Harry's head drifting down into his hands a couple of rows over. One more question left and then I will check my answers to make sure I haven't missed anything important. I still think I should add more detail to the number eight.

"NOOOOO!" Hermione jerked at Harry's scream. He had fallen out of his seat, gripping his scar.

"Harry! Are you alright?" she exclaimed, starting towards him. The Great Hall echoed with the sudden chatter and inquiries of the students disturbed from their exams.

"If everyone could remain in their seats and redirect their attention back to their papers," commanded Professor Marchbanks as Professor Tofty escorted Harry from the Great Hall. Hermione followed him with her eyes. What happened? What did you see Harry? With effort, she focused on the final question and finished the exam with an unusual sense of impatience for it to be concluded. Harry did not return.

When Professor Marchbanks collected their papers, Hermione and Ron both dashed out of the Great Hall to find Harry waiting for them. He vibrated with nervous energy.

"What happened, Harry? What's wrong? Are you sick?" demanded Hermione immediately.

"Why did you leave the exam?" asked Ron.

"Come on." Harry hurried up the stairs and ushered them into an empty classroom. Filled with trepidation, Hermione watched as Harry shut the door firmly behind them. This cannot be good.

"Voldemort's got Sirius."

"What?"gasped Hermione.

"How d'you – ?"

"Saw it. Just now. When I fell asleep in the exam."

"But – but where? How?" said Hermione, feeling the blood drain from her face.

"I dunno how," said Harry. "But I know exactly where. There's a room in the Department of Mysteries full of shelves covered in these little glass balls, and they're at the end of row ninety-seven…He's trying to use Sirius to get whatever it is he wants from in there…He's torturing him….Says he'll end by killing him…" Harry's entire body trembled as he spoke. Sinking down onto a desk, Harry appeared to be attempting to collect himself. Hermione couldn't think, couldn't figure out how to respond or what to suggest. Ron's stunned gaze traveled between Hermione and Harry as he leaned against the wall.

"How're we going to get there?" Startled, Hermione stared at him without comprehension.

After a pause, Ron said, "G-get there?"

"Get to the Department of Mysteries, so we can rescue Sirius!" Harry nearly yelled as if this should be patently obvious.

"But – Harry…" said Ron weakly.

"What? What?" said Harry.

Hermione found her voice again. "Harry, er…how…how did Voldemort get into the Ministry of Magic without anyone realizing he was there?"

"How do I know?" bellowed Harry. "The question is how we're going to get in there!"

"But… Harry, think about this," said Hermione, hoping Harry would listen to her, "it's five o'clock in the afternoon…The Ministry of Magic must be full of workers… How would Voldemort and Sirius have go in without being seen? Harry…they're probably the two most wanted wizards in the world…You think they could get into a building full of Aurors undetected?"

"I dunno, Voldemort used an Invisibility Cloak or something!" Harry shouted. "Anyway, the Department of Mysteries has always been completely empty whenever I've been – "

"You've never been there, Harry," said Hermione, dropping her voice in an effort to make Harry pay attention to what she was saying. "You've dreamed about the place, that's all."

"They're not normal dreams!" He stepped towards her, mere inches away from her face. "How d'you explain Ron's dad then, what was all that about, how come I knew what happened to him?"

"He's got a point," said Ron. You are not helping, Ronald Weasley! I need Harry to listen to me! It's impossible. Voldemort can't be at the Ministry.

"But this is just – just so unlikely! How on earth could Voldemort have got hold of Sirius when he's been in Grimmauld Place all the time?"

"Sirius might've cracked and just wanted some fresh air," said Ron, sounding worried. "He's been desperate to get out of that house for ages – " Ron, shut up! Especially since Sirius might be reckless and stupid enough to do that!

"But why," Hermione persisted, "why on earth would Voldemort want to use Sirius to get the weapon, or whatever the thing is?"

"I dunno, there could be loads of reasons!" Harry yelled at her. Name one, Harry! "Maybe Sirius is just someone Voldemort doesn't care about seeing hurt – " Then why bother with Sirius, Harry! Why not use any wizard or witch off the street? Voldemort doesn't care about hurting anybody!

"You know what, I've just thought of something," said Ron in a hushed voice. "Sirius' brother was a Death Eater, wasn't he? Maybe he told Sirius the secret of how to get the weapon!" Harry seized upon this wild postulation with alacrity.

"Yeah – and that's why Dumbledore's been so keen to keep Sirius locked up all the time!" said Harry.

"Look, I'm sorry," cried Hermione, "but neither of you are making sense, and we've got no proof for any of this, no proof Voldemort and Sirius are even there – "

"Hermione, Harry's seen them!" said Ron, rounding on her. Hermione gulped, but refused to abandon her position.

"Okay," she said, looking frightened yet determined, "I've just got to say this…"

"What?" demanded Harry.

"You…This isn't a criticism, Harry! But you do…sort of…I mean – don't you think you've got a bit of a – a – saving-people-thing?" she said.

He gaped at her. "And what's that supposed to mean, a 'saving-people-thing'?"

"Well….you…" Hermione braced herself for his reaction. "I mean…last year, for instance…in the lake…during the Tournament…you shouldn't have…I mean, you didn't need to save that little Delacour girl…You got a bit…carried away…" Despite the furious look on Harry's face, she pushed ahead, "…I mean, it was really great of you and everything. Everyone though it was a wonderful thing to do – "

"That's funny," said Harry though gritted teeth, "because I definitely remember Ron saying I'd wasted time acting the hero…is that what you think this is? You reckon I want to act the hero again?"

"No, no, no!" For heaven's sake Harry, can't you understand what I'm saying? Voldemort knows how you think Harry! He knows you won't let someone, let alone your godfather, be tortured and killed without trying to rescue them! "That's not what I mean at all!"

"Well, spit out what you've got to say, because we're wasting time here!" Harry shouted.

"I'm trying to say – Voldemort knows you, Harry. He took Ginny down into the Chamber of Secrets to lure you there, it's the kind of thing he does, he you're the – the sort of person who'd go to Sirius's aid! What if he's just trying to get you into the Department of Myst– "

"Hermione, it doesn't matter if he's done it to get me there or not – They've taken McGonagall –" McGonagall! "–there isn't anyone left from the Order at Hogwarts who we can tell and if we don't go, Sirius is dead!'

"You're wrong, Harry." Relief flooded Hermione, triggered by hearing the name McGonagall and sparking the memory of the previous night's events.

"No, I'm not. We have to go now!" roared Harry.

"Harry, listen to me. You're wrong. There is still a member of the Order at Hogwarts, Professor Snape. We need to tell him what has happened and let him contact the Order!" Much to her distress, Harry and Ron stared at her as if she had gone mad.

"Snape?" Harry spat out incredulously. "Snape would rather let Sirius die than help him Hermione! We can't trust him." Ron nodded vigorously in agreement.

"He's right, Hermione. Snape would never help Sirius," said Ron, "not in a million years. He hates Sirius."

"He's still a member of the Order." Meeting Harry's gaze directly, she asserted firmly, "And you promised Professor McGonagall to inform the Order if anything happened."

"Yes, but –" Harry started to protest before Hermione cut him off.

"So you're going to break your word to her?" she challenged him.

"No, but –" said Harry, his voice at a normal level for the first time.

"Good." Without another word, Hermione opened the door and strode in the direction of the nearest staircase. The boys glanced at each other, shrugged, and raced to catch up with her.

"Where are you going?" demanded Harry as they descended the stairs into the Entrance Hall.

"To see Professor Snape," replied Hermione coolly. At their combined cries of "Hermione!" she whipped around to face them. "You said you were going to keep your promise, Harry. And if what you saw is true, we can't afford to waste any more time." She turned and resumed her swift progress towards the dungeons. Within moments, the three of them arrived in front of Snape's office.

Severus muttered imprecations about the abilities of his fourth years as he marked their exam essays. Deaf and dumb and blind, the lot of them. Having slept very little and with Minerva's arrest, Severus had forcibly restrained himself from cursing the Ministry cretin into oblivion over the course of the day. Already, Hogwarts suffered from the absence of its Deputy Headmistress. Various small problems were rapidly presenting themselves while the students had intensified their campaign against the Toad. It was, as he had snidely remarked to Filius that afternoon, like allowing the patients to run the asylum.

At the knock, he barked, "Come in." He sneered when Potter, Weasley, and Granger entered, "What, may I ask, impelled you to come down here and disturb me in my work? I am inclined to put all of you in detention unless you have an exceptionally good excuse." Disregarding them, he resumed his marking.

"Professor Snape, we have something to tell you," said Hermione.

"Evidently, Miss Granger. Try to do something other than state the obvious." Hermione looked expectantly at Harry, stepping on his foot when he remained silent to no effect.

"Harry had another vision, Professor." This statement attracted Severus' attention. "Voldemort is at the Ministry."

"I find that highly unlikely, Miss Granger. Potter probably fell asleep during his exam and has invented this story to cover up his indolence."

"I have not made it up!" shouted Harry. "I saw him at the Ministry and he was –"

"You will lower your voice, Potter, and address me with the prop –"

Interrupting Professor Snape, Harry bellowed, "I don't care! Voldemort is at the Department of Mysteries and has gotten Sirius. He's threatening to kill Sirius unless Sirius helps him get the weapon!"

"We need you to contact the Order, Professor," said Hermione in a much more reasonable tone. "If there is any chance of this being true…" Silence followed her petition.

Well, well, Black's life is hanging in the balance dependent upon my decision. How the wheel turns. That supposing the Potter's vision is true and not merely a figment of his imagination or a trap set by the Dark Lord. Severus finally spoke, "Describe the vision to me in detail, Potter."

"I already told you, Voldemort is in the Department of Mysteries with Sirius. They're in a room full of shelves of little glass balls. Voldemort wants Sirius to get one of them down for him. Now, will you contact the Order?" Once again, silence reigned as Severus considered the situation. How would he know about the Hall of Prophecy unless the vision was at least partially correct? thought Severus. So it appears that the vision is either true or a trap. A part of him suggested that he send the three on their way and leave Black to his fate, whatever that might be. It was the vindictive side of him that whispered this idea in his ear and reminded him of the long list of indignities and grievances committed against him by Black. Here at last surfaced the chance to repay Black for his treatment of Severus Snape.

In the midst of these thoughts, Severus suddenly recalled a conversation with Minerva which had taken place shortly after the confrontation between himself and Black over Harry's Occulmency lessons. He had returned to Hogwarts in high dudgeon. Naturally, he had reported to the Headmaster who had been in discussion with Minerva. Not trusting his temper, he had been deliberately curt and left as quickly as possible. To his surprise, Minerva had visited him in his quarters less than an hour later. In typical McGonagall fashion, she had bluntly demanded that he explain what had him "glowering like somebody had stolen his favorite cauldron." He had responded with a vitriolic tirade describing his latest encounter with the golden boy and his sainted godfather. Without commenting, she listened to him vent until he lapsed gradually into a brooding silence. Only then did she speak.

"Severus, I have a better understanding than most of the bad blood between you and Black. However," she had paused, fixing him with her powerful gaze, "however, you are no longer a schoolboy. The Order cannot afford dissention within its ranks and that includes you and Black." She had held up a hand to forestall his speech. "You are not responsible for Black's actions, Severus, but you are responsible for yours. I am not suggesting that you forget the past. That would be unreasonable. Yet, you have changed since those days, Severus. Do not forget that. Do not permit Black to reverse the progress you have made."

Minerva had risen and walked over to the door, laying one hand on the doorknob as she faced him. Before she had left him to his thoughts, she added, "Concern yourself with your own character, Severus, and ignore those who would impugn it unjustly. If you must view this as a competition between yourself and Black, then see to it that you act in a manner that marks you as the better man. I expect nothing less."

Her words reverberated in his mind now. Grudgingly, he accepted that he would follow her directive and be the "better man."If nothing else, he would enjoy the satisfaction of having Black in some fashion owe him his life, assuming that he was actually in any danger instead of skulking around Grimmauld Place.

"I will contact the Headmaster who can determine the veracity of your account, Potter. In the meantime, you will go down to dinner. I do not want our revered Headmistress to become suspicious," Snape ordered. "In fact, I will escort you there myself to ensure that you do not run off in some harebrained scheme to rescue Black yourselves. Now, get out of my office and wait outside for me." Harry and Ron appeared likely to dispute this until Hermione opened the door and dragged them through it, yanking it closed behind her. Once outside, the three erupted into argument again. No doubt, Potter and Weasley are in favor of getting away while they have the chance and going after Black. How they have managed to survive this long without the slightest inkling of common sense astonishes me.

"Expecto Patronus," he muttered. As usual, the sight of his Patronus caused pain rather than the comfort normally experienced by other wizards and witches. "Headmaster, Potter has reported another vision. According to him, the Dark Lord has captured Black and is in the Hall of Prophecy. I request verification of this account and additional instructions." Disappearing into a wall, the Patronus dutifully sped away to seek out Dumbledore. Considering the time, Severus believed that the Headmaster would already be at Grimmauld Place in order to converse with and gather information from the Order members before the meeting. If not, the Headmaster would immediately travel to Grimmauld in any case to verify Black's whereabouts when he received the message. Should Black be missing, Grimmauld would be the logical staging ground for further action.

Finished with that task, Severus resigned himself to keeping an eye on the infamous trio until he received a reply. He doubted that Potter would not attempt something foolish that would end up getting him and a few other dunderheads into mortal peril. I would never hear the end of it from Minerva or the Headmaster if I allowed them to blunder their way into another fiasco. Sweeping out of his office, he commanded the three to follow him.

"Wait a minute, you said you would contact the Order," protested Harry loudly as he hurried to catch up to the Potions master.

"I have do so, Potter. Your precious godfather will be saved from destruction. Unfortunately."

"Thank you, Professor," jumped in Hermione before Harry or Ron could say anything else. She glared at the boys, clearing her throat pointedly.

"Thanks," grumbled Harry reluctantly and so low that Severus almost missed it.

"I didn't do it for your sake or for that mutt's sake either, Potter. Now, go take your seats," he said as they reached the Great Hall. While Hermione, Ron, and Harry found spaces at the Gryffindor table, Severus entered through the side door and secured the end seat. From there, he observed that Hermione appeared to be fighting a constant battle to keep Harry and Ron in their seats. Glancing down the staff table, he noticed that the house-elves had chosen to provide Umbridge with a barely edible meal of an undone potato while the rest of the staff dined on dishes Severus recognized as some of the Deputy Headmistress' favorites. Returning his attention to the students, he assessed the distinct tension emanating from them. The atmosphere reminded him strongly of the final phase of brewing for an Erado Totalus potion. At that stage, one infinitesimal mistake could ignite a chain reaction to create an explosion massive enough to demolish half a city block. I have no doubt that you will make that mistake, Dolores. If I remember correctly, you failed Potions.

About twenty minutes after he had sat down, Severus felt something brush his legs. He immediately stood and exited the Entrance Hall. Having been watching Snape closely, Ron, Harry and Hermione made similar departures. They located Professor Snape in the room which commonly held the unsorted first years every September.

"Well?" demanded Harry.

"Manners, Potter. You will address me properly."

Clenching his jaw, Harry managed, "What did the Order say, sir?"

"Black continues to take up space and oxygen at Grimmauld Place. The Headmaster wishes to see you. Come with me." Profound relief and confusion marked the faces of all three.

As Professor Snape led them up through the school, Hermione ventured, "How are we going to see Professor Dumbledore if he is not here, Professor?"

"Cultivate some patience, Miss Granger. It will prevent you from asking inane questions that will be answered shortly if you only wait." Halting in front of the gargoyle that guarded the Head's office, Severus said, "Ginger newts" and the gargoyle sprung aside. The moving staircase deposited them on the landing, Snape knocked firmly, and a familiar voice invited them to enter.

"Professor Snape, Harry, Miss Granger, Mr. Weasley, it is good to see you again although under less than auspicious circumstances." Despite Harry's less than congenial feelings towards the Headmaster, the sight of Albus Dumbledore calmed and reassured him considerably. Hermione and Ron eagerly offered their own greetings; their own anxieties eased by his presence. Dressed in a set of blue robes and seated behind his desk as if he had never left, Dumbledore's eyes alighted upon each of them in turn. Creating two more chairs with a wave of his hand, Dumbledore asked, "Please, sit down."

When the four had done so, Dumbledore directed his attention to Harry. "I'm sure you will be glad to know that Sirius is entirely unharmed and is currently enjoying Molly's delicious cooking."

"But what about my vision, Professor?" asked Harry.

"Ah yes...I believe that Voldemort was attempting to draw you into a trap, Harry," said Dumbledore. Hermione had to restrain herself from saying "I told you so."

"Why? What's in the Department of Mysteries? Why would Voldemort want me there?"

"That, Harry, is a question that I will decline to answer at this time. What matters at the present moment is that he has. Harry, I need to tell me exactly what you saw."

"Voldemort had Sirius in the Department of Mysteries at the Ministry of Magic. The room was full of shelves with little glass balls on them. It was dark. They were at row ninety-seven."

"Was there anyone else with them? Any Death Eaters?"

"No, Professor just Sirius and Voldemort. He wanted Sirius to take down on of the glass balls. Why would he want one of them?"

For a split second, Harry thought he saw Dumbledore's eyes cloud over in some unidentifiable emotion. Then Dumbledore answered, "Again, Harry, you have asked me a question that I am not prepared to answer. Severus, please see these three back to Gryffindor tower. I need to return to Grimmauld Place immediately. The Order must intervene to prevent any incursion of the Ministry. Goodnight Harry, Miss Granger, Mr. Weasley."

While the other three rose, Harry continued to stare at Dumbledore for a moment longer. Dumbledore avoided his gaze by examining a sheet of parchment on his desk. At Snape's command to "get moving, Potter," he stood up and joined the others at the door.

"Professor, do you…do you know anything about Professor McGonagall or Hagrid?" Hermione asked tentatively.

"They are both fine, Miss Granger. Goodnight." As the door closed behind Severus and the students, Dumbledore leaned forward, holding the parchment in his hand. To all appearances, it looked like a spare bit of paper except for a single mark on one corner, a mark that could be dismissed as a crescent shaped smudge of ink. As Albus ran his thumb over the mark, it shifted and rearranged itself into the form of a crouching lion

Minerva. It cannot be urgent, or she would not have left it here for me to find whenever I returned to Hogwarts. Unfortunately, I do not have time to read it now. He folded and tucked the parchment into an inside breast pocket before vanishing from the room.

He reappeared outside of Grimmauld Place. Upon entry, Albus heard the babble of voices from the kitchen. Having been in the library with Remus when he received Severus' Patronus, he had immediately informed the members of the Order already present of the situation. He had requested that they send messages to the missing members to come as soon as possible.

At the doorway, he paused to survey the assembled group. Albus nodded to himself when he found everyone in attendance except for Severus, Minerva, and predictably Aberforth. Stepping further into the room, he was inundated with greetings and questions.

"If everyone could take a seat…thank you…I have spoken with Harry and learned what I could about his vision. Apparently, he saw Voldemort with Sirius in the Department of Mysteries. Since Sirius is quite obviously not at the Ministry, I believe that Voldemort sought to lure Harry to the Ministry using Sirius as bait."

Various versions of "What are we going to do?" and "Why?" erupted from the group. However, they quieted instantly when he continued, "I intend to turn the tables on Voldemort so to speak. Tonks, Remus, I would like the pair of you to play the bait. Tonks, you will morph into Harry to convince the Death Eaters that their plan is working. Remus will accompany Tonks; his presence would not be entirely unexpected. Kingsley, I need you to discreetly prevent any more Aurors from leaving for the day and, if possible, recall those who might have already gone home."

"That should not pose a problem. I can simply convene a conference to discuss the progress made concerning the escaped Death Eaters," stated Kingsley.

"That will do admirably, Kingsley. If you could also keep their continued presence at the Ministry hidden, I would be most appreciative. We must not give any sign that we are aware of the planned attack."

"I believe I can manage that," assured Kingsley.

"It is my belief that the Death Eaters, rather than Voldemort himself, will be involved in the actual ambush. Most likely, they blended in with Ministry workers and visitors during the day and have simply secreted themselves near the Department of Mysteries. I have already asked Fawkes to conceal himself in the Hall of Prophecy when the time comes. When Remus and Tonks spring the trap, he will alert myself and Alastor who will be waiting close to the Ministry and Kingsley. At that point, Alastor will join Kingsley and other Aurors as they engage the Death Eaters. On the off chance that I am mistaken and Voldemort chooses to reveal himself or the Aurors are overwhelmed, I will remain outside the battle unless it becomes necessary."

"Are there any objections at this point?" asked Dumbledore, receiving none. "Harry reported that the vision showed Voldemort and Sirius located at row ninety-seven in the Hall of Prophecy. That will be your target position, Remus, Tonks. Kingsley, you will need to return to the Ministry immediately although I mean to postpone Remus' and Tonks' arrival until after the Ministry has been emptied. I do not want bystanders caught in the battle and it would have taken Harry some time to travel to the Ministry in any case."

When Dumbledore finished, Kingsley rose and said, "I will be waiting for your signal, Dumbledore," before making his way out of the room.

"In the meantime, I suggest that Alastor, Tonks, and Remus prepare themselves. As for the rest of the Order, I would like you to remain at Grimmauld Place with the exception of Emmeline. Emmeline, would you be so kind as to make an excuse to be at St. Mungo's? I would prefer it if an Order member was involved in treating any injuries that occur."

"Of course, Professor. It wouldn't be unthinkable for me to check on several of my patients. I'll leave right now." Emmeline waved goodbye and departed.

"If you'll excuse us…" said Remus as he and Tonks also got up. "Alastor?"

"Coming," growled the retired Auror. Together, the three retreated upstairs to alter Tonks' appearance and review the layout of the Department of Mysteries. This seemed to serve as a sign for the Order to break into smaller groups, conversing about the upcoming confrontation.

"Professor?" Dumbledore found Sirius at his side. "Is Harry alright?"

"He is fine, Sirius."

"I take it you wouldn't let me go to the Ministry," Sirius phrased it as a statement rather than a question.

"I'm afraid not, Sirius."

"Sirius," called Remus from the doorway, "could you and Molly come upstairs for a moment? We want to make sure Tonks looks exactly like Harry. Professor, would you like to come as well?"

"In a minute, Remus, thank you."

"We are in the first floor bedroom as it has a full length mirror." At Dumbledore's nod, Remus returned upstairs with Molly and Sirius in tow. Deciding to take advantage of the momentary lull, Albus climbed the stairs to the ground floor library. Once inside, he settled down in an armchair and extracted Minerva's letter from his pocket.

Activating the lion seal, Albus tapped it with his wand. Line by line, Minerva's handwriting materialized on the page. Lighting a table lamp with a touch, he began to read.

Dear Albus,

I had hoped that this letter would be superfluous, but evidently events have progressed in such a fashion as to make it necessary. I know you wanted to avoid a decisive confrontation with the Ministry, fearing that it would cause an irreparable division of the community. However, my own beliefs and principles forbid me from allowing Cornelius Fudge and Dolores Umbridge to reign unchecked. If you are reading this, I have been removed from my post as Deputy and most likely arrested by the Ministry on charges of treason. Severus has doubtless already informed you of this fact as I requested. I have left instructions for the staff and I have every confidence in the Heads of Houses to carry on in my absence. As you know, it would be prudent if you could manage to return to Hogwarts at least until the end of the term to tend the wards. The Head's Office continues to refuse Dolores entrance so your chambers are still safe from her.

Albus, I must ask, no insist, that you do not interfere with my situation. I have already spoken with Jonathan Ashford regarding the possibility of my arrest. He has agreed to act as my representative and will do everything in his power to ensure a fair trial. Amelia Bones will probably preside over any proceeding herself and I believe she will welcome the chance to prove that the entire Ministry has not forgotten the laws which they are sworn to uphold. Moreover, I have already contacted, through Jonathan, Celeste Chevalier as well as several others who have pledged their support. I refuse to allow the likes of Dolores and Cornelius Fudge victory. You know how stubborn I can be. I have been in worse situations and emerged successful as you should remember. Have faith in me as I have had faith in you all these years.

Tell him, Albus. I wish we could permit him to retain the last vestiges of childhood a little longer, to give him the luxury of ignorance, but he needs to know the truth about why his parents died and why Riddle will never stop hunting him. He must be prepared. I do not believe in Divination as a method of either predicting the future or determining what actions one should take. Riddle, however, does and it guides his actions. Harry needs to understand this and that Riddle considers his fate dependant on Harry's.

I would ask you not to worry about me if I believed it would have any effect. Instead, I will merely request that you only worry as little as possible. Be well and try not to get yourself into any serious trouble while I'm otherwise occupied and cannot help you get out of said trouble.

Yours,

Minerva McGonagall

P.S. I miss you. Furthermore, you left me to deal with all of end of term paperwork and the Toad by myself. I expect repayment to begin with a very nice dinner and we can negotiate from there.

Despite the looming battle, Albus found himself smiling at Minerva's letter. Since his departure and with the exception of his note regarding their chess match, they had not exchanged any direct communication. He relied upon tidbits from intermediaries to keep him informed of her wellbeing and activities. Although she had neatly foxed his plans, Albus felt no real anger towards her. He could not reasonably expect her to go against her conscience; he would be asking her to stop being herself. Which is the very last thing I would want. Smoothing out the creases, Albus reread the letter and heard Minerva's distinct timbre in every word and turn of phrase. He pictured her seated at her desk as she composed the letter. Yes, I owe her quite a few dinners and chess games and conversations over tea for her and hot chocolate for me. I have always trusted you, Minerva, and my faith in you has never wavered even if I may not entirely agree with you this time. I will enjoy watching you thoroughly trounce Dolores. But I miss you too, my dear. Please be safe and come home soon.

"Professor? I think it's about time," Remus' voice interrupted his reverie.

"Yes, I suppose it is."

"What do you think, Professor?" asked Tonks as he emerged from the room. Someone had apparently scrounged up the appropriate clothing and charmed it fit her, or rather, Harry.

Scrutinizing her carefully, Dumbledore replied, "Very well done, Tonks."

"Thanks, Professor." Descending the stairs, Dumbledore along with Tonks, Sirius, and Remus came into the kitchen. Alastor pushed himself to his feet and joined them at the doorway.

"Ready, Dumbledore. Now remember you two 'constant vig–"

"vigilance. I know, Mad-eye. And don't worry, I haven't got my wand in my back pocket either," interrupted Tonks. "Although you never did tell us who you know who got a buttocks blown off, come to think of it. And would you all stop staring at me?" The question was directed to the rest of the Order who had been transfixed by Tonks' reincarnation as Harry.

"Sorry, Tonks, it's just really weird," said Bill Weasley. "You're going then?"

"I'm afraid so," said Dumbledore.

"Be careful, dears. Come back safely," fretted Molly. Her sentiments were echoed by those staying behind.

"We will Molly, don't worry," Remus reassured her. To calls of "Good luck" and "Don't get hurt" and one "if you see any of my cousins, Moony, tell them I said hello and give them a good kick in the ass from me," the four exited Grimmauld Place.

"I assume you will be entering the Ministry through the visitors' entrance, Remus?" inquired Dumbledore.

"Yes, Professor," answered Remus.

"Good. Fawkes," Dumbledore called. The phoenix appeared in a burst of flame and Dumbledore said, "Fawkes, I need to you conceal yourself as I requested earlier. Remember, alert Kingsley first and then Alastor and me." With an agreeing trill, Fawkes transported himself into the Hall of Prophecy and, dimming his brilliance to blend in with the shadows near the ceiling, settled down to await the ambush. Turning the Remus and Tonks, Dumbledore queried, "Are you prepared?" At their quiet affirmations, Dumbledore, "Row ninety-seven in the Hall of Prophecy. Alastor, Kingsley, and the rest of the Aurors will be at hand to support you as soon as the trap is sprung and I will be nearby. We will meet back at Grimmauld Place as soon as possible after the mission is completed. When you are ready…" A moment later, Tonks and Remus apparated a couple of blocks away from the visitors' entrance with broomsticks in their hands, having brought them from Grimmauld Place. Moody and Dumbledore disappeared as well to position themselves around the corner from the Ministry.

From his vantage point, Dumbledore saw Remus and Tonks utilize the phone booth to gain admittance. Shortly thereafter, Fawkes retrieved Alastor to join the ensuing battle. Dumbledore remained outside the Ministry, searching for any hint of Riddle's magical signature.

There you are, Tom. Far enough from the Ministry to avoid detection by the Ministry wards, Riddle seemed to be waiting for his Death Eaters to bring him the prophecy and Harry. I believe you will be disappointed tonight, Tom. With a thought, Albus brought himself within range of Riddle.

"Hello, Tom." Hissing, Tom whirled to face the Headmaster, wand in hand. Half hidden in the darkness of an abandoned warehouse, Tom's scarlet eyes burned to see his old Professor in the street before him. He glided forward, an extension of shadows. A bone white hand clutched his wand.

"Dumbledore. Come to save your precious child? How touching," he mocked, "You should have protected him better in the first place. It was so very easy to lead him into my trap. But, then, I have always found sentimental attachments to be the greatest weaknesses."

"And therein lies your greatest weakness, Tom," replied Dumbledore calmly. "Leave this place." Even as Dumbledore spoke, Tom's expression twisted suddenly and he hissed again. "Your Death Eaters have failed in their mission and I suspect are currently appealing to you for aid. The tables have been turned, Tom. Your attempt to lure Harry here backfired."

"How does it feel, Dumbledore, to be abandoned by the community you have protected and coddled for so many long years? You could have been Minister and they would be bowing at your feet. Yet, here you are, an outcast and a criminal. Why do you continue to defend such faithless and worthless beings?"

"As long as there is still a spark of goodness shining deep within their hearts, I will protect them from enemies who seek to snuff that light out."

"You are a fool, Dumbledore," whispered Tom as he disapparated.

In the empty street, Dumbledore stared unseeing at the place Tom had stood, recalling the young boy from the orphanage he had once known and the young boy who has safe at Hogwarts with a lightning scar on his forehead. Yes, I suppose I am a fool in your eyes, Tom. An old sentimental fool who believes in hope and love and other such nonsense. But I would not wish to be wise according to your calculations nor desire that which you desire. Reaching out magically, Dumbledore confirmed that Riddle had indeed fled the area and then transported himself back to Grimmauld Place.