AN: I just want to thank everyone for reading and/or reviewing this story. Your comments and continued interest in this story is greatly appreciated. This will be another two chapter update. Hope you enjoy.


Chapter 15

"Andy, how do you think their Occlumency shields are?" Harry asked Andromeda after their morning training session, pulling her to the side.

"You want to be able to tell them everything about Voldemort and yourself before you leave for your trip," Andromeda guessed. Samena had told those in the know that she, Harry, and Minerva would be going to Greece to collect the unicorn blood on the 16th. That was on Friday of this week.

"Yeah, I don't want to go and not be able to tell them the truth if I can help it," Harry admitted.

Andromeda thought on it for a moment. "I think they're able to more than adequately protect their minds at this point. All of them have worked as hard as they could to get where they are now. Also, most of them are still in school and have at least two more weeks to practice before they will be around those who would try to invade their minds."

"Okay, I'll tell them after the meeting then," Harry decided. He was nervous about it, knowing that the truth would likely upset them, but it had to be done. At least Samena was working on a way to get it out of him, so it was less of the death sentence it had seemed like when he first found out about it.

"Tell who about what?" Tonks asked, butting into the conversation.

"Telling everyone else about the horcruxes," Harry clarified, his voice quiet to avoid being overheard.

"Oh, well if mum thinks they're ready to protect it, then you should," Tonks agreed. "When are you planning on telling them?"

"Today, after the meeting since everyone will already be here waiting for us," Harry said.

"Good idea, though it'll be a bit of downer on our shopping trip this afternoon," Tonks remarked.

"Wait what…" Harry exclaimed, caught off guard.

"We told you about this last night Harry, keep up," Tonks said, dismissing his surprise. Andromeda could only shake her head at her daughter, knowing that she had not specified when the trip would be taking place. "Anyway, I'll just have to work a bit harder to make sure you have a fun time."

As Tonks started listing off all of the things Harry would need to get during their shopping trip, pacing across the floor, Harry groaned in exasperation. He muttered about witches going overboard as he walked off to get ready and dressed for the meeting, leaving Tonks still talking with only her mother left to listen to her. When she still didn't stop talking, Andromeda walked away as well.

It took her a few more minutes to realize that she was alone. "Wait, where did you guys go?"

- H.M. –

Fifteen minutes before 9, Harry, Minerva, Andromeda, Samena, Hestia, and Matthew arrived at the Ministry of Magic to meet with the Hogwarts Board of Governors. All of their evidence was prepared and ready to go, with each prospective professor having a resume to prove their capabilities. Amelia and Hestia met them in front of the meeting room a few minutes later. They had left the manor earlier to take care of a few things for work. The area they were in was secluded so they didn't have to worry about anyone seeing them there and they could talk freely.

"So, they let you go after all," Harry joked.

"More like she kicked everyone out of her office saying, and I quote, 'I'd advise you all to leave before I decide there's a need for employee restructuring'. The whole lot cleared the room quick after that," Hestia explained, a satisfied smirk on her face.

"Go Boss," Tonks cheered, while Harry laughed as his mind conjured up images of what the expressions on their faces would have looked like.

"They should have gotten out when I said it nicely," Amelia remarked unrepentantly.

"Well that's one way to clear a room," Andromeda noted.

"Indeed," Minerva said, amusement clear in her voice. Then she focused them back on their upcoming meeting. "Now, does everyone have everything you need?" They all checked over their things one more time before nodding their affirmation. "Good. Remember to wait for the signal before you come in."

The plan was for Minerva, Amelia, and Hestia, as Amelia's bodyguard, would go into the room first, while the others waited outside. Once Minerva had received the governor's oath that the details of the meeting would be kept secret until the first official day of school at Hogwarts, she send a patronus to let them now it was time to come in.

"Don't worry, we'll be ready," Harry said, speaking for all of them.

"Let us start this meeting then," Minerva said as she moved to knock on the door. When she heard a verbal response, she pushed open the doors and walked in. Amelia was beside her with Hestia behind them both.

All 12 of the governors were present, sitting on a raised dais arranged in a semicircle around the room. In the middle of the room on the ground level was a podium on a slightly raised platform. There was no other seating provided. The governors hadn't expected anyone besides Minerva to come so they hadn't felt the need for them. That is why they were so surprised to see the Minister walk in with Minerva. The three witches didn't pay them any mind, though as they strode up to the podium, Minerva expanding it so she and Amelia could stand behind it together comfortably.

Once everyone was situated, Minerva began the meeting. "Good morning and thank you for agreeing to meet with me today. I assure you that I'm here to discuss a matter of extreme importance."

"You're welcome Professor McGonagall, though I'm sure I speak for everyone else when I say we're caught off guard. Minister Bones, I was not aware you would be attending this meeting," Governor Kent, the head of the board, replied.

"We are sorry for the lack of prior warning of my attendance, but the circumstances of this meeting require an element of secrecy. Auror Jones is here as my protection detail, though I'm sure you can understand that due to my change in status," Amelia stated.

"What do you mean?" another governor asked in confusion.

"Before we get into the reason for this meeting, there is something I must ask from all of you," Minerva said cautiously. "Because of the huge nature of the subject and its need to be kept a secret until the right time, I require all of you to take an oath that you won't reveal the contents of this meeting or anyone who attends it until the Welcoming Feast at Hogwarts."

"Nothing we discuss here can be discussed at all. In fact, no mention of this meeting can be made to anyone until the time Professor McGonagall has specified," Amelia clarified.

A few governors balked at the suggestion, but most had calculating expression on their faces.

"I believe we should assent to their requests. Neither Minister Bones nor Professor McGonagall are known for playing games. If they say the subject is serious, then we need to hear them out," Governor Greengrass declared, getting nods of appreciation from the two witches. Governor Kent called for a vote on the matter to make it fair. After bit of hesitation from some, they decided to do as Governor Greengrass suggested with only three protesting the issue.

Once they had taken the oath provided for them, Governor Kent turned back to his guests. "Now that we have satisfied your requests, will you tell us what this matter is about?"

"Of course. But first, there are a few more people who need to join us," Minerva said as she sent a Patronus message to Harry. A few seconds later, the rest of the group walked into the room. The look on the governors' faces was full of shock and nervousness, especially due to Harry's presence. All except for one. Governor Greengrass sat back with a small smirk on his face, knowing that things had just gotten even more interesting. Harry casually flicked his wand at the podium, enlarging it to fit the rest of the group.

"We have come before you today to discuss Headmaster Dumbledore's position," Minerva began once the rest of the Hoods were in place.

"Professor McGonagall brought this matter to my attention a few weeks ago. After careful consideration, I agree with her assessment of him. He is no longer fit to be the headmaster of the school and hasn't been for several years," Amelia stated.

"How could you say that? This is Dumbledore we're talking about and he has done an excellent job in that position for several years," one governor protested. The Hoods took note of said governor in case he considered going against his oath.

"We have evidence that proves he has failed to adequately protect the lives of the students over the past five years. His hiring practices are also questionable and have affected the quality of education the students have been receiving," Minerva declared.

"Please explain your evidence to us," Governor Kent said before any of the other governors could voice their opinion.

Minerva cleared her throat before beginning. "In 1991, he allowed Professor Quirrell to teach Defense, knowing that he was being possessed by Voldemort. He hid the Sorcerer's stone in the castle, knowing Voldemort was after it with the intent to use it to come back to power. In 1992 he hired Lockhart as the Defense professor, even though he was horribly underqualified for the position. Then he refused to close down the school or allow the aurors to patrol it during the Chamber of Secrets event, despite the danger the students were in and those who had already been petrified. In 1993, he let the former minister force the dementors to patrol the school, causing the students unnecessary trauma. All of which was pointless seeing as Sirius Black had managed to sneak past them in a locked prison. There was little hope that they would be able to locate him in a large castle surrounded by acres of open land. In 1994, he failed to adequately protect an underage student from being forced to participate in the Triwizard Tournament. Even after that, he still didn't add any extra security or protection for the event, allowing that same student to be kidnapped from school grounds. It must also be mentioned that he was either unable to detect that his friend, Alastor Moody, was being impersonated by Barty Crouch Jr. or that he did nothing to stop him from carrying out his plan. Finally, during this past school year, he failed to find a proper teacher for Defense and allowed Madame Umbridge to hold that position despite her being highly unqualified. Then he stood by as she abused her power and even tortured students who she saw as inferior to her with the use of a Blood Quill."

All of the accusations caught most of the governors off guard, but it was the last one that had Governor Greengrass standing up in righteous fury. "Do you have proof that she used a Blood quill on the students?"

Harry stepped forward to show him his hand where the scar still remained from his time with Umbridge. "I was her favorite target, but not the only one. If it weren't for the help of Hogwarts's house-elves, it would have been much worse."

"Minister Bones, are you planning on charging that woman for her atrocities?" Lord Greengrass demanded.

"I will be attending to that matter very shortly," Amelia promised. In fact, she had ordered the woman to meet with her today.

Trying to regain control over the meeting, Governor Kent spoke up. "These charges are very serious. Before we start making any decisions, is there any other evidence you have against Dumbledore?"

Amelia wrapped up the argument Minerva had been making. "There is one more questionable hire to discuss. In 1981, he hired Severus Snape as the Potions Professor. While the wizard is good at making potions, he does not have the temperament to teach any class. Over the years, several students have made complaints about the man's lack of actual teaching, favoritism to Slytherin students, and cruelty to all other students. That's not even including the fact that Snape was a death eater who only got off on Dumbledore's word. Despite all of this, Dumbledore has protected him to the detriment of the students and because of that, Snape has single-handedly decreased the number of qualified potion-makers, healers and aurors we have in this country.

After pausing for a second, Amelia glanced at Harry, speaking once she had received his nod of consent. "We also have proof that Dumbledore should never again be in charge of the welfare of any child. As Lord Black's magical guardian, he has failed of perform even the basic duties that position requires. Dumbledore allowed Lord Black to be systematically abused mentally, emotionally, and physically by the family of his mother's sister. Not once did Dumbledore check in on him to ensure his safety and wellbeing or even attempt to prepare him for his life in our world. In fact, Lord Black knew nothing about his parents or his heritage until he received his letter from Hogwarts. Dumbledore even lied to Professor McGonagall whenever she asked after Lord Black's welfare, claiming he was safe and happy when the reality was the exact opposite. When Lord Black brought his abuse to Dumbledore's attention at the end of his first year at Hogwarts, the man ignored it and continued to send him back there every summer. He didn't even try to talk to Lord Black's relatives or curb their abuse at all. These actions prove that Dumbledore is not only unfit to be Headmaster of Hogwarts but shouldn't be around children or in charge of their care at all."

Minerva passed out the physical evidence they had brought with them to the governors as Amelia spoke. When Amelia was finished, they started reading over it. After about ten minutes, Governor Kent looked up at his guests. "I am appalled by what you have revealed to us. While we knew there have been some incidents at Hogwarts in recent history, Dumbledore has always downplayed the severity of them. However, school is set to start in 20 days and I'm not sure we would be able to fill all of the positions necessary before then. If we were to go down this path, school would have to be delayed."

Governor Greengrass spoke up, a knowing glint in his eyes. "I believe that problem has already been solved for us. Professor McGonagall is the obvious choice for Headmistress. She has proven her worth several times over as the Transfiguration Professor, Head of Gryffindor House, and the Deputy Headmistress. I think it would be hard to find many who could contest her record. If it weren't for her, I'm sure the school would have fallen into ruin. Also, I'm sure that the rest of our guests aren't here just as backup."

"Thank you, and you are correct, Governor Greengrass," Minerva admitted. "Knowing that this proposal would cause many positions to open up, I and Minister Bones thought it prudent to find qualified candidates to fill them."

Amelia began to introduce everyone, giving their name and chosen position while Minerva handed out their resumes. "If you make Minerva the Headmistress, then Professor Flitwick would be a good choice for her Deputy. For History of Magic we chose Andromeda Tonks. It's time Professor Binns retires permanently. For Potions and the Head of Slytherin house, we chose Samena Easton. Snape definitely needs to go. For Transfiguration and the Head of Gryffindor house, we chose Matthew Copeland."

Amelia paused for a moment, making one governor believe she was done. "I thought you were prepared, but you seem to be missing one position, the Defense Professor," the governor interrupted smugly.

"I was just getting to that," Amelia rebuked, glaring pointedly at the governor. He could only look at her for a few seconds before backing down. "Now for the last candidate, I need all of you to keep an open mind. After much consideration, we believe Lord Black is best suited for the position of Defense Professor."

"He is a mere child! How could he possibly teach anyone when he hasn't even finished school himself," the same governor argued.

Before anyone else could voice their protests, Minerva cut them all off. Her stern tone silenced them all. "Lord Black is more than capable of teaching the students. He has come face to face with dark witches, wizards, and creatures and come out alive every time. He has survived and persevered in situations where many of you likely would have given up. And he has already proven himself to be an excellent teacher. Under his tutelage, all of the students who were part of the group known as the Defense Association, were able to pass their school tests, OWLs, and NEWTs. Despite the lack of good or consistent teaching in that subject over the years. And if that doesn't convince you, you should know he received his masteries in Defense and Transfiguration at the ICW office."

"Impossible!" the argumentative governor cried irately. "There is no way this boy is capable of that. As for his supposed survival of situations against dark forces, I'm sure they're being overstated."

Harry smirked darkly at the governor. "I have proof, in the form of memories verified by the official pensieve used for court trials. I can show them to you now."

"Are we really going to continue to entertain this craziness?" the governor replied.

Governor Kent gave the man a dark look before turning back to Harry. "Please show them to us." Harry complied, handing over the memories he'd put together. They included his adventures during his time at Hogwarts and both of his practical tests from the ICW. Amelia gave the governors the official pensieve for them to view them in, enlarging it so all could watch at one time. The twelve men gathered around it before plunging their heads inside.

Twenty minutes later, they removed their heads from it, their faces pale with mixed emotions displayed on them. There was shock, horror, disbelief, and a bit of fear. All were impressed by what he'd accomplished though, grudgingly or not. As they tried to regain their composure, Amelia handed them Harry's resume to read over.

"Before you decide, you should know there is no rule at Hogwarts setting an age limit for professors. As long as an individual is deemed qualified by the Headmaster or Headmistress and the Board, they can become one," Minerva added after they'd had time to read over it.

"Very well," Governor Kent stated. "Your points have been made. We will vote on your proposal." After a few minutes, the governors had decided by majority to go along with the Hoods' plans. Then, they went over the specifics on how the information was to be revealed during the Welcoming Feast and Amelia suggested she send a contingency of aurors to guard the school and Hogsmeade village for added security during the school year. Minerva also assured them that she would talk to the Hogwarts staff about everything before the meeting was ended.

- H.M. –

Amelia and Hestia went back to work while the others returned to Black manor. The rest of the Hoods, except for Arthur, were waiting for them in the kitchen when they arrived.

"Did it work?" Ron asked before they could sit down.

"Ronald, give them a moment," Hermione complained.

"It worked," Harry confirmed. Those who had attended it took turns telling everyone what had happened, with Tonks adding her own colorful commentary. When they were finished, Harry took a deep breath before broaching the other, less fun subject he needed to talk to them about. "Now that Andromeda has deemed you accomplished enough in Occlumency, there is something I need to tell you. When I first asked you to join me, I told you that there was something I was holding back from you until you were able to protect your mind from intrusion. I was referring to the reason why Dumbledore has treated me like a sacrifice and why Riddle was able to survive the night of my parents' murder."

"Whatever it is mate, you can tell us," Neville encouraged, seeing how much what he needed to tell them bothered him.

Susan could feel Harry's fear and anxiety clearly due to her empath ability and tried to reassure him. "No matter what you tell us, we won't abandon you. We're here because you're our friend and leader and we care about you." Everyone else voiced their agreement with Susan.

Minerva placed her hand on his shoulder and spoke to him softly. "I can tell them for you if you'd like."

Harry shook his head. "Thanks, but they deserve to hear it from me." Then he turned back to the others resolutely. "There are these pieces of dark magic called horcruxes or soul containers. To create them, you have to perform a ritual and then literally split your soul by committing murder. Once you do, you can store that splintered piece in your chosen container. When one makes them, it gives them a way to prolong their life as they can't be truly destroyed until the horcrux or horcruxes are all destroyed. It also makes them go insane, which is why most aren't crazy enough to make them."

"But Riddle did?" Hermione guessed correctly.

"Yes, he made seven of them in total," Harry confirmed. "I discovered this one night while I was still in hiding from everyone, managing to use our connection to get memories from him. I know exactly which items he used as horcruxes."

"Do you know where they are?" Charlie asked.

"One is already destroyed," Harry said as he glanced at Ginny.

Ginny had an expression of horror as she realized what Harry was referring to. "Riddle's diary?"

"Exactly and it's amazing that you were able to fight against it for so long," Harry pointed out. "We're also in possession of three others and believe a fourth to be hidden in Hogwarts. Another one stays close to Riddle as it's his snake Nagini."

"How do you destroy them?" Fred asked.

"Normally, by destroying the container. Basilisk venom, Fiendfyre, and the Killing curse are three proven methods," Harry answered.

Hermione, the smart witch that she is, had figured out why this subject seemed to bother Harry so much. Her tone was full of horror when she voiced her realization. "He made you one, didn't he?"

Some looked at her in confusion while the others who had caught up with Hermione's realization became upset. Harry confirmed their suspicions. "Yes. On the night Riddle killed my parents and tried to kill me, he unintentionally made me a horcrux. It's why Dumbledore believes I have to die and why I share a connection with Riddle."

"But there has to be another way!" Ron protested. The others voiced their objections as well.

"There is another way," Samena announced, making them all go quiet. "It is why Minerva contacted me in the first place and it is why her, Harry, and I will be leaving for a short trip on Friday." Then she gave them an in-depth explanation of the ritual.

"'ow risky is it?" Fleur asked.

"It can be very risky if the steps are not followed properly or if Harry didn't meet the requirements. Even then, there still are no guarantees. But I can tell you that this is the best choice I know of and Harry is a better candidate for it than anyone I've read about or seen before," Samena explained honestly. "There is also the fact that he doesn't have to do it alone which can't be said for the other methods I know of."

"Are you okay with it, mate?" Ron asked Harry.

"I am. I trust Samena. If she says it's the best way to go, then I believe her," Harry replied confidently.

"So how are you gonna get a unicorn to willingly give you their blood then," George asked.

"By gaining their trust," Samena replied.

"In less than a week?" Susan asked in a little disbelief.

"I have it on good authority that Harry will be successful as long as he trusts his instincts and believes in himself," Samena replied mysteriously, sending an obvious glance at Luna.

The others looked at Luna pointedly, though the girl in question wasn't bothered by it. "That's what the nargles told me," she stated as if that answered everything.

"Anyway, now that we've dampened the mood, it's time for us girls to take Harry here shopping," Tonks exclaimed excitedly.

"But I haven't eaten lunch yet," Harry protested. He looked at the other wizards for help, but they offered none.

"Sorry Harry, but it's best not to argue against these things," Matthew remarked wisely.

"I've prepared something for you all to take with you," Mrs. Weasley said. Harry gave her a look of betrayal. "Don't look at me like that young man. You do need new clothes for your new job. It's best you get it over with now instead of dragging it out."

Harry looked at Minerva as his last resort, but she shook her head at him. Defeated, Harry allowed himself to be dragged out of the room by Tonks with Hermione, Ginny, and Susan following behind them.

- H.M. –

"Where are you taking me anyway?" Harry asked between bites of his sandwich. They had taken a portkey Amelia had provided them with and were now walking down what seemed to be an abandoned street.

"To a shop a friend of mine's owns. Her name is Eliza, or Lizzie, and she sells all kinds of clothes and accessories, magical and muggle," Tonks replied. "Trust me, she'll be able to find everything you want and need."

"Don't worry Harry, we won't treat you like a dress-up doll," Hermione promised.

"You'll have full decision-making power over what clothes you get," Ginny said.

"We're just here to help is all," Susan concluded.

"See, so just try to enjoy it. Shopping can be fun when you do it the right way," Tonks exclaimed.

Harry sighed, realizing he shouldn't be giving them a hard time when they were trying to help him. "Alright, I promise to try and have fun."

"That's the spirit mate," Tonks replied as she wrapped her arm around his shoulders. They kept walking until they made it to the end of the street. In front of them was another abandoned lot with a derelict house like the many they'd passed by. Tonks ignored the dubious looks she was getting from the others and led them around the back of the house until they were standing in front of the back door.

"Are you sure this is the right place?" Susan asked hesitantly.

"It's like how you get on the platform for the Hogwarts Express," Tonks explained before literally walking through the closed door. Shrugging their shoulders, the other four followed behind her.

On the other side of the portal was a huge store with at least three floors inside of it. They walked over to Tonks who was talking to someone whom they guessed was Lizzie.

"Hey guys, this is my friend Lizzie," Tonks introduced, confirming their assumptions. "Lizzie, this is Hermione, Susan, Ginny, and Harry."

"Nice to meet you all," Lizzie greeted.

"Nice to meet you as well," Hermione replied.

"Same here," Ginny replied.

"Yeah, I really like your shop," Susan remarked.

"It's always good to meet a friend of Dora's," Harry said.

"So, you are the young man who's in need of a wardrobe then," Lizzie said, focusing on Harry.

"I guess so," Harry shrugged.

"He needs a more mature look that makes people take him seriously without him looking like a stuffy old fart," Tonks explained.

"Trying to impress a special someone then?" Lizzie teased.

"Um… kind of," Harry admitted, getting curious looks from the others.

"Well, I'm sure we can find you exactly what you're looking for. You're going in the right direction though, because that beard of yours definitely makes you look older and gives you a bit of a rugged look. In a good way of course," Lizzie said, referring to his now full goatee with a circle beard.

"Thanks," Harry said bashfully, stroking it a bit.

"Now, let's get you measured and then you can start picking out some clothes," Lizzie announced. She took out a measuring tape from her pocket, waving her wand at it. It flew around Harry's body, taking all of the measurements necessary before flying back into Lizzie's hand. "Okay, so first I need to know if you want to go with a more muggle or magical look.

"Definitely muggle. In fact, I'd rather not have any robes at all," Harry replied.

"Then you won't have them. Let's go look around and see what catches your attention," Lizzie said. She led them to the third floor where the men's department was located. They perused through the many racks and shelves for about ten minutes. Harry found a few styles that interested him while the witches made a few suggestions of their own, without trying to force anything on him. He agreed to try on a few of their choices because of that. Once he had enough things to start with, Lizzie made sure they were the right sizes before taking them to a dressing room. Harry tried all of them on without protest, discarding the styles he didn't like and keeping the ones he did.

With Harry having decided on a style, the real shopping began. He actually found himself having fun with the girls. They joked around with him, sometimes picking out things just to get a laugh out of him. However, they never tried to tell him what to wear or force him to try on something he wasn't comfortable with.

An hour later, Harry had a full wardrobe of clothes. For tops he got V-neck and crew neck sweaters, a few shawl collar pullovers, and assortment of long-sleeved, three-quarter sleeve, and Henley button up shirts. For bottoms he went with more formal jean styles and slacks. He even got a few ties, 3 suits in black, light grey, and dark grey, along with two sport coats in black and light grey. Once they had all of that, they went to the shoe section to get a few pairs of dress shoes and boots.

The last section they went to was the outerwear one. There, Harry perused over the large selection of jackets and coats before picking out a black leather racer jacket and a winter military jacket in army green with a liner that could be taken out so he could wear it during the warmer months. That last item was by far his favorite and Lizzie promised to customize it so the patch on its left breast would have the Potter and Black family crests with his first and middle initials and last name written underneath them.

By the time they were ready to go, Harry was glad he'd been convinced to go on this trip and thanked all of the witches profusely for their help. They left his wardrobe with Lizzie so she could add the necessary charms and enchantments for comfort and durability.

On the way back to their portkey point, Tonks asked Harry the question that had been on hers and the other three witches' minds since earlier. "So, are you really trying to impress her, or was that just an excuse you told Lizzie?"

"Dora!" Harry exclaimed.

"We already know about your feelings for Professor McGonagall," Susan stated.

"Wait, how did you two figure it out?" Harry asked Ginny and Susan.

"I'm an empath Harry. I can literally feel your emotions," Susan said, giving him an incredulous look. Harry chastised himself for forgetting about that fact.

"My brothers can't get anything past me, so you shouldn't think you can either. Besides, anyone who pays enough attention to the two of you could figure it out," Ginny replied.

"Just great," Harry groaned.

"It's nothing to be embarrassed about Harry," Susan assured him.

"I like my teacher more than I'm supposed to. How is that not embarrassing?" Harry asked rhetorically.

"Technically, she is no longer your teacher. She's your boss after our meeting this morning," Tonks pointed out.

"How is that any better?" Harry asked.

"There are no rules against the Headmaster or Headmistress being involved with their professors," Hermione informed him.

"Really?" Harry blurted out, unable to contain himself.

The four witches smiled at his enthusiasm. "Yes, Harry really," Hermione confirmed.

"I… it doesn't matter," Harry said.

They shook their heads at his obliviousness. "Are you going to at least ask her to be you anchor for the ritual?" Tonks asked.

"I don't think that's a good idea," Harry said causing Hermione blow out a breath in frustration.

"Harry James Potter, you need to get over yourself and ask her to be your anchor," she ordered.

"But…"

"But nothing. This is a life or death situation. If you don't have the right anchor you could irreparably damage yourself, or worse. I will not let you go into that ritual without the person best suited for that position and that is Professor McGonagall. So, either you ask her, or I will do it for you."

Harry looked at Hermione in shock before her words registered to him. He realized she was right. The stronger he felt about his anchor, the better the ritual would go. Plus, he couldn't pretend that Minerva wasn't the person he trusted the most to do this for him.

"You're right Mione. This is a serious situation and I'm acting like an idiot. I'll ask her myself," Harry agreed.

Hermione pulled him into a hug. "I'm sorry for yelling at you. I just don't want you to die," she whispered.

"I know. Besides, your job as my best friend is to tell me when I'm being an idiot," Harry whispered back.

"Well, now that that drama's over, let's get back before they decide to send a search party out for us," Tonks suggested. They all followed after her as she led them the rest of the way back.

- H.M. –

While Harry was getting a new wardrobe and finding out that shopping with women could be fun, Minerva was on the receiving end of an uncomfortable conversation. She and Molly happened to be in the kitchen alone at the moment, with the others off doing their own thing. She was reading one of the books Harry had given her from his vault while Molly was reading a book on healing magic. Both were drinking tea as they read, the atmosphere peaceful. This is why Minerva was so caught off guard by Molly's questions.

"Minerva, may I ask you something personal?" Molly said, gazing at the other witch intently.

"What is it?" Minerva replied, still too engrossed in her book to notice the warning signs.

"How close are you and Harry?"

Minerva almost choked on the tea she had been drinking and had to clear her throat before she could respond. "We are friends." Her tone was cautious, afraid of where this conversation was going.

"Of course, it's just I've been noticing that the two of you seem very close." Molly's tone was innocent.

"Well I've been mentoring him since he was forced to compete in the tournament. We've spent a lot of time together because of it and it has forged a… strong bond between us." Minerva stumbled as she tried to use the right words to avoid suspicion.

Unfortunately for her, Molly was the mother of seven children, and she was used to having to read between the lines when it came to them. "I suppose that's true." She paused, making Minerva think she would drop the subject. Her next words erased that hope. "Though I do wonder why your room is on the third floor with Harry's. According to Winky, that is the family floor."

Minerva didn't know how to answer that one. When she had asked Dobby herself why she had been put in that room, his answer had not helped her. He said it was the Mistress's room before popping away with a smirk, as if that explained everything. Of course, the fact that she had done nothing to change rooms after finding out about it didn't help her either.

"So, your feelings for him go beyond friendship then?" Molly asked knowingly.

"I do not want to lie to you," Minerva admitted.

"Then don't. Harry makes it very easy to forget his age because he normally doesn't act like it. And he's unfortunately seen far too much of the dark side of life to be considered a child. Add in the interests and hobbies you both share and it is easy to see how you became attracted to him."

"I tried my hardest not to. Even now I still refuse to talk to him about it and try and keep my distance."

"I'm sure you do but fighting against your feelings of any sort concerning Harry is almost impossible. I know that personally. After all, what helped me make my decision concerning Dumbledore was the thought of how much he had made Harry suffer. That erased any loyalty I had felt for him."

Minerva looked at her in surprise. "You are not upset?"

"If we were talking about different people, I would be. However, with the way Harry's grown up and because I know you would never try to take advantage of anyone, let alone him, I am not. I want both you and Harry to be happy and while it would be a unique relationship with its own challenges, I believe the two of you could make it work."

"Everyone who figures it out keeps telling me that."

"Then why don't you listen to us and tell him how you feel."

Minerva looked away. "I don't know."

"Well I think it's time you figured it out."

- H.M. –

Harry and Minerva weren't the only ones busy that afternoon. Amelia Bones made good on her promise to Lord Greengrass. She had called Umbridge into her office an hour after the meeting with the board on the pretext of discussing her position in the Ministry. Hestia was the only other person in the office when she arrived, giving Umbridge a false sense of security. The toad-like woman strutted into the room as if she was about to be given a promotion.

Amelia smirked internally while her face gave nothing away. Hestia stood out of Umbridge's eyesight and had no qualms about displaying her smirk, thinking, That toad has no idea what's coming to her.

"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me, Madam Umbridge," Amelia greeted cordially once the woman was seated.

"Of course, Minister Bones," Umbridge replied, her tone overly sweet. "How may I help you and the Ministry?"

"Before we get to that, there is some background information we need to go over. Don't worry, it's just so I can make sure I place you in the right position suited for you."

Umbridge felt a flicker of doubt at that. "What would you like to talk about?"

"First let's discuss the things you've accomplished during your time in the ministry."

Umbridge relaxed at that and began touting the things she done to help "better" magical Britain. She got so caught up in talking about herself that she failed to notice the change in Amelia's expression when she praised her more controversial measures especially the ones that attacked muggle-borns or magical beings.

When Umbridge had finally finished, Amelia pivoted the conversation to the real reason for the meeting. "What about your time at Hogwarts as the Defense professor?" Amelia was even more satisfied by the look of unease on Umbridge's face after having to listen to the woman talk just now.

"What do you want to know about it?"

"How about you tell me why you thought it was okay for you to use Blood quills as a form of punishment against the students?"

Umbridge jumped out of her seat in fear. "I, I, I don't know what you're talking about." She tried to turn around and run, but Hestia blocked the doorway. The auror had a dark look on her face, letting Umbridge know she wouldn't hesitate to draw her wand if necessary.

"Don't lie to me Umbridge. I have proof from several students that you did, all of who are either half-bloods or muggle-borns. You did a good job of making sure that the scars from your torture remained."

"You can't prove that!"

"I can and I will. You may have thought you were going to get away with it, but that was your mistake. You should have known that from the moment I took office, your days were numbered."

"You can't do this to me! I am innocent!"

"Auror Hestia, take Madam Umbridge to our secret holding cell to await trial. Only those we mentioned earlier are to know of her imprisonment."

"With pleasure Minister," Hestia said as she gleefully slapped the magic-suppressing cuffs on the abhorrent woman's wrists.

"I only gave those brats what they… ow." Umbridge was cut off by Hestia jerking her around a bit too hard.

As the two left the office, with Hestia having to silence Umbridge who was yelling empty threats at both of them, Amelia sat back in her chair with a satisfied expression on her face.

- H.M. –

For the next two days, Harry spent hours trying to figure out how to ask Minerva to be his and anchor and possibly admit his feelings to her. After frustrating himself to no end, he decided to ask for some help. So, he went to Andromeda.

"Hey Andy, can I talk to you for a moment?" Harry asked after he had knocked on her bedroom door.

"Of course, Harry," she replied, beckoning him in.

"Thanks, I'll try not to take up too much of your time," Harry said as he sat down in the chair beside her bed.

"There's no need to rush. What seems to be bothering you?"

"Well, I want… no I need to ask Minerva to be my anchor for the ritual."

Andromeda waited for him to say more. "Is that all?"

Harry looked down for a second. "No. I'm sure you already know this, but I like Minerva. And I mean really like her. At first, it was a simple crush in my third year. But then… then I got to know the real her and well I was kind of doomed after that. I could control it before though. Even pretend like my feelings didn't exist. But after my fight with Greyback and becoming an animagus, I can't do that anymore and it's driving me crazy." Harry stood up and began pacing the floor. "Sometimes it feels like torture worse than any dark witch or wizard has ever put me through. To be so close to her and… and yet so far. But any time I try and convince myself to just tell her, I chicken out because I'm afraid to lose her. Afraid to ruin the most important friendship I have. I can't do all of this without her. And now I'm getting ready to do this ritual and I want Minerva to be my anchor, but I don't think it's a good idea. She'll know all of my memories, even the ones I haven't really talked with her about. And that's not even counting what other side effects we might get. I just… I just don't know what to do anymore."

As Harry finished his rant and stopped in front of her, he looked so lost and her first instinct was to pull him into a motherly embrace. She knew that wasn't what he needed right now though and instead she moved to calm him down. "Come sit down Harry," Andromeda said, patting the space beside her. He did as he was instructed, plopping down onto the bed and lowering his face into his hands. Andromeda rubbed his back as she talked to him, her voice calming. "Harry, the first thing you need to realize is that everything you're feeling right now is completely normal."

Harry looked up at that. "What do you mean?"

"I mean that when you're in love and you haven't told the person how you feel, it can drive you crazy." Andromeda turned her body to face him.

Harry didn't even try to deny his feelings. "I'm not supposed to feel that way about her though. She's my professor, my mentor."

"And she's also your very good friend. But none of that truly matters, because the heart wants who it wants and that is especially true for people like us."

"Magical people have soulmates?"

"Not exactly. We don't form a magical bond as soon as we lay eyes on each other. However, when our magic meets someone whom it is highly compatible with, it tends to urge us to spend more time with that person. It doesn't consider any other factors, including age. We can ignore it of course, but the feelings remain. In your case, those urges are intensified because of the changes your body is adjusting to. The fact that you already like and respect her as a person and spend a lot of time with her only increases that intensity."

"So, what do I do about it then?"

"You talk to her."

"What if makes her uncomfortable and she no longer wants to be around me because of it?"

"If you truly believe that, then you don't know her as well as you think you do. Do you really think Minerva would abandon you that easily, after all you've been through together?" Andromeda's voice was stern as she chided him.

"No." Harry put his head down in shame for even thinking that of Minerva.

Andromeda lifted his head up with her finger under his chin so she could look him in the eyes as she spoke to him. "You are afraid, and that is okay. I'm not promising you that telling her will be easy. But no matter what, you will still have Minerva as a friend at the end of the day."

"I know. I'm just being an idiot as usual."

Andromeda shook her head. "No Harry you are not an idiot. Unfortunately, you did not have the childhood you should have due to manipulative old men and cruel relatives. That can make you feel insecure about things like relationships and feelings. Yet despite not growing up in a loving environment you have the biggest heart of anyone I've ever known and when you trust it, good things happen. You just have to remember that when you start overthinking things, but no one is perfect. That's why you have friends and family to help you when you need it and vice versa."

"Ok, I'm going to talk to her while we're in Greece. About being my anchor and my feelings. Thank you, Andy. For listening and calming me down."

"You're very welcome."

Harry stood up, getting ready to leave but a thought had him turning back around. "You are my family, by the way. I don't tell you enough how much I appreciate everything you've done for me, but I do appreciate you."

Andromeda's eyes teared up as she got up and pulled him into a hug. "And I am honored to be part of your family. You're much better than the one I was born with."

"Ditto."

They stood there for a moment until Andromeda pulled away, wiping at her eyes. "Now, you need to go finish packing your stuff for your trip. And remember what I told you."

"I will. I promise.


AN: The Hoods are not done with Umbridge just yet and her trial won't be for a little while.

League of Hoods Members:

Harry – Alpha

Minerva – Lioness

Hermione – Scholar

Tonks – Shifter

Andromeda – Barrister

Amelia – Monarch

Hestia – Sleuth

Fleur – Aphrodite

Luna – Oracle

Ron – Tactician

Neville – Terran (means earth)

Fred – Thing 1

George – Thing 2

Ginny – Firecracker

Charlie – Bear

Samena – Mystique

Matthew – Eagle

Arthur – Humphrey (means calm)

Molly – Matron