Last Chapter Until 2023.
List of Women In this Chapter
Cassandra Jacobs: Katherine McNamara
Merula Snyde: Camren Bicondova
Andromeda Black-Tonks: Kate Beckinsale.
Nora Darhk: Courtney Ford
Astra Logue: Olivia Swann
Nymphadora Tonks(preferred form): Hayley Williams.
Charlotte Granger: Hayley Atwell.
Molly Weasley: Amy Adams.
Ginny Weasley: Sadie Sink.
Hermione Granger: Millie Bobby Brown.
Fleur Delacour: Ancilla Tilia
Minerva McGonagall: Rachel Weisz
Gideon: Amy Pemberton
Lily Evans-Potter: Karen Gillan
The Next Step:
It took an hour for the members of the Order of the Phoenix to all assemble in the kitchen of Number Twelve Grimmauld Place. Everyone was here, except for Snape and Dumbledore for obvious reasons. Moody, Kingsley, Remus, and Sirius all shared what Dumbledore did with the newest guests. The expressions around the table darkened as the story had been told.
None had been more grave than one Minerva McGonagall. It forced her to recognize some ugly truths that Harry was certain she was not prepared to face.
"Mr. Potter," McGonagall said. "I've failed you by not asking more questions that I should. I've failed many, but I've failed you. Rest assure, if Dumbledore does manage to extract Snape from custody, I will not be returning to a school where he is allowed to teach. And I would suggest the other teachers take a walk as well. We have to draw a line in the sand somewhere."
Harry would have liked to believe they could stand up to Dumbledore regarding Snape. However, Harry had years worth of evidence that said that there were many people in authority who deferred to Dumbledore, and Hogwarts was his domain. Dumbledore would have to go, although Harry would also have to prevent the Ministry from putting someone in there that would be even worse.
The question many asked, which illustrated the problem they were in, was simple. If not Dumbledore, then who?"
"Would they all walk?" Bill asked. "Would Dumbledore really chose Snape over everyone else?"
"I'm not sure if any of us want to know the answer to that question," Tonks replied grimly. "I can't believe what he admitted."
Aberforth, Albus's brother, remained silent for a long moment.
"It shouldn't be a surprise," Aberforth said gruffly. "Leaving a child to languish in the worst possible conditions, just to achieve some grand plan. Several times over. Albus is so used to getting his way. It was always Albus's way or the highway when we were children. Our mother indulged him, when I think he should have been taken over her knee more often."
Astra, Ginny, and Tonks all looked highly amused despite the grave situation. Aberforth turned his attention to Harry.
"My brother needs to be stopped," Aberforth said. "I hope you appreciate the leverage you have, Potter. You might be the only one who can stand up to him and get away with it."
A few members of the Order looked they disagreed that Dumbledore was a problem.
"Dumbledore's done so much for us, for the entire world," Elphias Doge said.
"And he wanted to ensure Harry was safe and secure," Arabella Figg said.
Astra's eyes narrowed.
"So, you knew," Astra said.
"No, I had been told you had been sent to live with your father and Albus suggested I would not bring up the matter with Harry," Mrs. Figg said. "But, it was for the best. Harry wouldn't have been able to save you."
"And yet Dumbledore didn't even try," Sirius said. "You knew of Harry's living conditions this entire time."
"Tell me the truth, Mrs. Figg," Harry said. "You were leaking information to Dumbledore, about what was going on at Natalie's, who was visiting, so he could try and use it to delay her obtaining my custody."
"Dumbledore…was curious about that," Figg said a bit nervously. "He mentioned to me one time that he was afraid that Natalie would take you and Astra out of the country and you would not attend Hogwarts. And it would be a disaster if you did not."
Harry just frowned.
"I've always found it curious that you never received any other invitations from any other magical schools," Fleur replied. "You think a wizard of your caliber would have been highly sought after."
"It's very sus," Tonks remarked. "If nothing else, they would have wanted to get Harry on board, so they could rub it in Britain's face."
"I'll check it out, but I think Dumbledore may have filtered Harry's mail," Bill said with a sigh. "He would have had his reasons, and given that there would have been any number of dark wizards who would have sent Harry a curse through the post, he had to justify it."
"That would explain why I didn't get any fanmail or marriage proposals," Harry said. "Or any hatemail."
"Dumbledore did what he felt he had to do," Remus said. "But, the problem is no one questioned it sooner."
"We've got a lot to deal with, regarding what Dumbledore's done with Potter," Moody said. "But, we do have a problem. We still have the Ministry refusing to budge on certain matters and we still have Voldemort on the horizon. He won't remain idle forever. He's already sending feelings out for many of the groups of magical creatures."
"And after your Ministry spent the better part of the past decade further margilizing them, you can understand why they would consider his proposal," Fleur said.
"Greyback is always a problem," Remus said. "And there're many werewolves who don't want to argue with him and his extremist views."
"He's always sought out children, and converted them at a young age," Merula said. "He's sick and twisted."
"And he's not the only one," Bill said. "There's certain groups of goblins who sympathsized with You-Know-Who during the first war. They felt he had the right ideas, in how he wanted to overtake and overthrow the Ministry and reform it. And You-Know-Who does come across as progressive in his own twisted way.
"And what are we doing to stop Voldemort from getting this army?" Harry asked.
"At this point, we're just waiting to see what his next move is," Kingsley admitted. "The Dementors will join him when he says when."
Harry sighed. He dealt with those floating terrors enough to last him an entire lifetime.
"Hagrid and Madam Maxime are on a mission," Fleur said. "To reach out to the giants. To try and get them to not join up with Voldemort."
"And how is that mission going?" Harry asked.
"Well, they will be away for a while," Fleur said.
"Well, as long as Hagrid doesn't do anything like bring one back, what's the worst that can happen?" Cassie asked.
"Oh, I don't want to even think about that," Merula groaned. "Because, that's the exact thing Hagrid would do."
Harry grimly nodded as did Ron. Fluffy, Aragog, Norbert, the Skrewts,need Harry say more. No, he was pretty certain that he said plenty.
"We have a leadership problem," Arthur said. "We can't trust Dumbledore to lead in good faith after what he's admitted."
"I agree," Moody said. "If not Dumbledore, then who."
Yes, Harry understood how that question was a problem which got them in this situation in the first place.
"I feel as if that question is going to cause us many problems," Andromeda said.
"If you ask me, it's almost as if he's grooming Potter to be his successor," Aberforth said gruffly. "Although, you never know what my brother is doing. Because, he also claimed he was setting up Potter to be a sacrifice to inspire people."
"That's an extreme view to have," Doge said. "Albus wouldn't have done it, if there's any other way."
"So, are you trying to say that Dumbledore wanted Harry to lead the Order someday?" Remus asked.
"He's too young to do that," Molly said. "It's not that I don't think he's capable, but those decisions should not be put on his shoulders. He's done way too much for us already."
"I can't find myself disagreeing," Remus said.
"Harry's more capable than most," Ginny argued.
"Yeah, given all he's done for us, he's more than fit to lead," Fred said.
"And he's already cleaned up enough of Dumbledore's messes," George said.
Ron nodded and Hermione did as well, although she still looked gobsmacked regarding what she learned. And also guilty, given that she was updating Dumbledore on Harry.
"He's done great things," Fleur admitted. "But, there's a serious problem."
"If a wizard who hasn't taken his OWLs is the best to lead us, over Dumbledore, then we really haven't progressed that far in the past seventy or eighty years," Tonks said.
"And I don't think I would be able to lead right now, I do have my studies to focus on," Harry said. "And I'm not the only option."
Here Harry's eyes fell upon Cassie and Cassie blinked for a second. She looked gobsmacked at what Harry was implying.
"That's not a good idea," Cassie murmured.
"Jacobs leading the Order?" Moody asked. "We could have worst."
Bill turned to Charlie and the two oldest Weasley brothers nodded.
"She does have experience dealing with things like this," Bill said.
"Yeah, she's always inspired us before," Charlie said.
"Face it, you're the best person for the job until Harry's ready," Merula said. "You have led us all to defeat one group of dark wizards before. Why not another?"
"I'm not sure," Cassie murmured. "What about Moody or Lupin or…."
Tonks put a hand and caused Cassie to stop in midstream.
"Why not you?" Tonks asked. "It has to be you. You've dealt with Dumbledore before. And you've stood up to him."
"I'm not even in the Order," Cassie said.
"Dumbledore did invite us," Merula said. "You politely declined. I told him where to shove his offer."
A few people snickered in response. Some of the older members looked disapproving at what they perceived to be disrespect towards Dumbledore.
"Maybe it's not too late to reconsider," Merula said.
"You impressed Patricia Rakepick," Sirius chimed in. "And if she's seen something in you, there was something great. Trust me, that woman is hard to impress."
"So, we're just going to replace Dumbledore, after all he's done," Doge said.
"We are replacing Dumbledore after all he's done," Moody confirmed.
"Would Dumbledore even allow this?" another order member named Sturgis Podmore asked.
"Dumbledore's not the Order, he only founded it," Andromeda said. "He led it to the best of his abilities in his time, but I feel like he can't be trusted."
"But, you're not part of this Order," another member argued.
"I am and I agree," Kingsley said. "I was mistaken in putting our faith in Dumbledore."
"Especially considering he's put his faith in Snape," Bill said darkly.
"It's only fair we let Dumbledore have his say!"
Harry sighed. There were a couple of people in the Order still loyal to Dumbledore. They would have to be watched very closely.
"He does have value, still," Harry said. "He's the only wizard that Voldemort fears."
"And maybe for good reason given what we learned," Fleur said. "What he's willing to do to achieve his ends."
"My suggestion is that Dumbledore can remain in the Order, but under one condition," Sirius said. "He's forced to relate everything he knows to all of us. And is completely transparent."
"Make him swear an unbreakable vow or he's out of the Order," Emmeline suggested.
"That's extreme," Doge ordered.
"Oh, anything beneath licking Albus's robes is beneath you, Doge," Aberforth said while rolling his eyes.
"Now, I won't be…"
"Enough," McGonagall said. "I recommend we put this matter to a vote. First in inducting Cassandra, Merula, and Andromeda into the Order. I believe they will all bring something to the table."
"And then we vote on Dumbledore's status," Kingsley said. "Whether he remains or is suspended until further notice."
"Kicking him out of the group he's founded and built," another Order member murmured.
"Everyone will have a voice," Sirius said. "Let's vote."
Everyone in the Order voted, with Cassie, Merula, and Andromeda officially inducted into the group.
"And now the vote to suspend Dumbledore," Moody said.
The majority of the group voted to suspend Dumbledore. Those who did not, looked at the other members of the Order like they committed high treason. Even Molly and Arthur, who up to this point were two of Dumbledore's strongest supporters,voted for suspension without any hesitation.
"After all you've learned, you still vote to keep him," Merula said.
"And Cassie for the new leader," Tonks said. "All in favor."
The same group who voted for Dumbledore's suspension all voted Cassie in. Those who refused to vote for suspension, abstained from doing so.
"So, congratulations," Tonks said.
"I accept being Leader of the Order," Cassie said. "Under one condition."
"Which is?" Moody asked.
"Harry's let in the loop and told what's going on," Cassie said. "I'm not going to put him into any danger, anymore than he has to be. But, I've learned enough from my own experiences and from what Harry's told me, that most of the danger happens from people keeping information away from us. And the adults in Harry's life have caused him more harm in letting him stumble around with his eyes closed."
A few people around the table looked ashamed for a few seconds.
"Sound plan," Sirius said.
"And if Harry's legal guardian, I agree," Andromeda said.
"But Dumbledore…."
"Isn't your leader anymore," Merula said while rolling her eyes.
"Anyone who wants to leave the Order, because they don't like Dumbledore being replaced, is welcomed to leave," Cassie said. "All I ask is for you to sign this vow of silence."
Cassie drew up a contract.
"There's some kind of jinx on that if we talk, isn't it?" Mundungus Fletcher asked.
"Just a precaution to prevent any Pettigrews," Cassie said. "I've got two contracts. One to stay and one to leave. Each will enforce your vow of silence. You won't be able to leak anything back to Dumbledore."
'This isn't right," Doge said. "Dumbledore trusted us."
"And Pettigrew happened," Merula said.
"I've only been in the Order because I owed Dumbledore a favor, without Dumbledore ain't much of a point," Mundugus said. "So, what happens if I slip?"
"Rakepick invented the charm, it will prevent you from slipping," Cassie said. "It's far more forgiving for accident slip-ups, but if you go to Dumbledore and tell him confidential information, or anyone from the Ministry or Voldemort, with the intent to hurt the Order, you won't like the consequences."
"If it's the one I think it is, you really won't," Bill said. "It's not a childish spell which puts a few pimples on their face and brands them a sneak. It's something else entirely. Mind your tongue, if you want to keep it."
Bill signed, as did several others, the contract to remain in the Order. Mundungus was the first to sign the contract that he was leaving the Order. He was not risking his skin any longer, if the leader did not have leverage. Mrs. Figg signed as well, obviously she doubted there was little point of her sticking around.
"No one leaves this room until they sign one of the contracts," Sirius said. "I'll make sure of it."
Doge signed the contract which indicated his resignation from the Order. A few more of the older members of the Order followed as well.
"It's a sad day which someone's childish temper tantrum brings down Dumbledore," one of the ex-member said.
Harry said nothing. Aberforth just rolled his eyes at how some people ould follow his brother to the end's of the Earth.
"Well, you've chosen to stand behind him," Emmelline said. "It remains to be seen if he stands behind you."
"I wish you all the best in your future endeavors,' Cassie said.
Cassie shook the hands of all of the Order members who resigned and they all walked out.
"So, will any of them try and go to Dumbledore?" Tonks asked.
"For their sake, I hope not," Bill said darkly.
"You really didn't curse those contracts, did you?" Hermione asked.
"Of course, I did," Cassie said. "After Wormtail, do you blame me?"
Hermione could not dispute that.
"Harry?" Astra asked.
"I look forward to seeing where the Order goes forward," Harry said.
"Naturally, someone is going to have to inform Dumbledore that he's been suspended from the group he's founded and kicked out of the Leadership role," Andromeda said.
"We shouldn't have allowed him to leave," Moody grumbled. "I'll track him down and give him the happy news. I trust you'll be in touch with him in the coming days, Jacobs?"
"Give him some time to come to terms with what he's done," Cassie said. "But, yes, soon enough, Harry and I will be having a long talk with him, another one."
"I agree," Harry said. "Professor McGonagall? A word?"
Minerva blinked and nodded and she walked over with Harry.
"Mr. Potter, I don't think I can apologize to you enough," McGonagall said. "Snape…I knew all about what he was all about, since he became my colleague. Dumbledore suggested that I give him the benefit of the doubt."
"And you did," Harry said.
"I had to," McGonagall said regretfully. "The first day Snape taught, three of my students came to me in hysterics because of him. All first years, all Gryffindors, and they were all upset with how he acted, how they treated him, some of the crude comments he directed towards their Potions making were not professional. I told them I would look into it, and would speak to Professor Dumbledore."
"I can only imagine how he responded," Harry said.
"Dumbledore told me that Severus needed to remain at Hogwarts, for his own protection," McGonagall said. "And he also mentioned how Severus was qualified. True in many respects, from his knowledge on Potions, but there's a certain character you need to be able to teach students, especially a subject like Potions. And Snape did not have the right character to do so."
"I'm guessing the Board of Governors was told about Snape's unprofessional behavior," Harry said.
"Oh, they were informed," McGonagall said. "But, they decided to let Snape off with a warning, and Lucius Malfoy painted all of the complaints as the foolish exaggerations of children who were lazy and refused to put in the effort. Every year, I received the complaints. And every year, Dumbledore assured me he would discuss the matter with Severus, but he just got worse. Especially when you showed up. I honestly I'm surprised you didn't come to me. Of course, by that point…I had long since grown tired of it and numb to it and started telling students that this was just something they had to deal with at Hogwarts."
"That's not right," Harry said.
"I know that, Potter,' McGonagall said. "Over the years, I had just lost all touch with any passion I had for my job. Working as Dumbledore's…."
McGonagall struggled to find the right words to describe it.
"Hatchet woman?" Harry asked.
"If you must, that's an apt description," McGonagall said. "Was weary. I had to field complaints from students and staff directly, given how Dumbledore made himself this distant and mystical figure. Not at all what the Headmaster should be, as he spread his influence far and wide. By the time you arrived, I had been dealing with the complaints about Snape for years. Longbottom came to me, upset, Granger did although she dropped the matter cold after I said he had Dumbledore's full support,, and even Miss Patil and Miss Brown, but…I found myself disappointed that the one person who might have had leverage to bring Snape to heal, had he complained, did not."
"It shouldn't have been up to me to put Snape in line," Harry said. "And I knew that it wouldn't do any good complaining about adults who are abusive. Dumbledore made sure of that."
McGonagall sighed.
"I knew," McGonagall said. "I let Dumbledore talk me into not following up on leaving you with them.. And for that I'm sorry. I feel like I've failed you. And I'm not sure what's going to happen with Dumbledore as Headmaster. I've heard the rumors that the Ministry is looking for excuses to get him out and interject their own people in the school."
"Not rumors," Harry said. "Madam Bones and Captain Scrimgeour told me what Fudge has planned. And we can't let it happen."
"Do you know who Fudge intends to put in?" McGonagall asked.
"Dolores Umbridge," Harry said. "They passed a law which the Ministry can put a teacher in the school if Dumbledore cannot find a qualified candidate. And Defense Against the Dark Arts…."
"Does not have a qualified applicant due to the bad luck we have when retaining teachers," McGonagall said. "The Ministry interfering in Hogwarts can't happen, anymore than Snape coming back."
"But, we'll discuss that later," Harry said. "I want to switch my classes and drop Divination."
The smallest shadow of an approving smile passed over Minerva's face.
"I would ask why, but I know the answer," McGonagall said. "To Arithmancy or Study of Ancient Runes?"
"To both," Harry said. "I've been doing a bit of reading on both subjects. And I really wish I had chosen differently."
"You will have to write to Professor Vector and Professor Babbling," McGonagall informed Harry. "But, it's not unprecendented. You will have to put in a lot of work and pass the fourth year exams to attend the fifth year class. I would recommend hiring a tutor to get you up to speed as well. I'm certain Professor Vector and Professor Babbling will be able to be able to recommend someone who could help you."
"I will, Professor," Harry said.
"And you will have to have your guardian sign a permission form to have you drop Divination if you qualify," McGonagall said.
"Send it to me, and I'll do so," Andromeda said.
"About the only stumbling block I can see, is the Headmaster may step in and veto your request," McGonagall said.
"Dumbledore might not be the Headmaster for much longer," Harry said.
"Yes, with what he's done lately, I'm not sure he should be," McGonagall said. "But, I must return to Hogwarts and call a meeting with staff about recent developments. Thank you, Mr. Potter, and I'm sorry. I hope you enjoy the rest of your summer."
"Do what you have to do, Professor," Harry said.
McGonagall walked off and Harry caught a few surface thoughts from her. She regretted a lot with any passion she had for teaching slowly drained out of her over the past several decades she worked. There was a big problem regarding Dumbledore and there being a lack of an alternative to him.
"So, now what?" Cassie asked him.
"I think it's time for a long overdue discussion with my friends," Harry said. "Ron and Hermione, can I talk to you both?"
They both nodded, although Harry could not help and think they looked rather anxious. And that was good. Harry wanted them to understand.
"Can I come too?" Ginny asked.
"Of course," Harry said. "The more, the merrier."
Harry walked into a room, with Hermione and Ron following. Astra and Nora followed them. Ron looked as if he found the floor rather interesting.
"Thank you for the wand holster, Ginny," Harry said. "And the letter. It was very thoughtful that you found a way to send a secret message to me without anyone else knowing. Shows how much you care."
Hermione flinched as if Harry had physically slapped her in the face. Ron found his shoes to be very interesting.
"Figured, you could use someone to help perk you up," Ginny said. "And I figured the holster would come in handy after what happened at the Quidditch World Cup."
"It should," Harry said.
"Been quite the day, hasn't it?" Ginny asked.
"It's been quite the last couple of weeks," Harry said.
"Figured as much."
Harry turned to Ron and Hermione. He was calm. So calm they both shivered.
"So."
Harry waited for a second before speaking to them. At least they looked ashamed. Well, Ron more so than Hermione.
"I'm pretty sure you have an explanation about why you couldn't properly write to me, that you're now not as confident in as you were before Dumbledore revealed what he did. I'm not going to yell. I'm not going to scream. But I'll tell you one thing."
Harry stared at Ron and Hermione without blinking. They knew better than to say anything.
"You chose Dumbledore over me. And you chose poorly. I doubt either of you can even begin to understand how isolated I was in those few few weeks of summer before Nora and Astra turned up. I almost w…I almost feel like it would be nice if the two of you could walk a mile in my shoes, for a day. But, even you don't deserve it. I don't want to put that burden on anyone."
Hermione and Ron both shuffled.
"This was messed up," Ron said. "No, seriously, what Dumbledore admitted, it was completely messed up. I wouldn't believe it, yet he said it. Those were five years of your life, that Dumbledore took away. They erased a part of who you were and who you were."
"He had no real choice," Hermione said. "If he…"
"Oh, no you don't!" Ginny snapped. "You don't get to defend Dumbledore, not after all he's done!"
Ginny's eyes flared with anger.
"And in case you weren't paying attention, I'll spell it out for you," Ginny said. "Albus Dumbledore used all of us. He took advantage of my mother's maternal and caring nature, of Ron's insecurities, and of…your need to prove yourself, for knowledge, or whatever drives you. I don't really know why you're so obsessed sometimes, but it's madness."
Ginny obviously had been waiting to get this off of her chest for some time.
"You know, what, as far as I'm concerned, Dumbledore should burn," Ginny said. "He should burn for everything. Alongside Pettigrew and Snape and Lucius Malfoy, and all of Tom's cronies, alongside of Tom himself. And he knew what he was doing, he knew exactly what he was doing."
Nora nodded in understanding.
"He never learns," Nora said.
"No he doesn't," Ginny agreed. "He said he didn't be responsible for a third Dark Lord in a century. Well, he's given Harry all of the reason to be one. Because Albus Dumbledore never learns his lesson and he never will."
"Harry never would," Hermione said.
"Are we sure?" Ron asked. "Would we be friends?"
Harry had been caught off guard by the very blunt and sudden question given by Ron.
"Would we be friends if it wasn't for Dumbledore tampering with your mind?" Ron asked. "If not for him ripping away a part of you, who you are, and turning you into what I met you as on that train. Would we be friends if you had grown up with Astra and with your godmother, and not thought you spent ten years with the Dursleys?"
"Of course, we would be friends," Hermione said. "We have to be."
Hermione was almost near tears.
"I won't be mad," Ron said. "I just want it straight up, would we have been friends?"
"Between your insecurities and Hermione's, you're a bit difficult to deal with at times," Harry admitted. "And if I didn't…."
"I'm not insecure," Hermione said crossly.
Ginny snorted extremely loudly.
"You are, always drawing attention to yourself in class, as if you have something to prove," Ron said. "I am too…always fighting for Mum's attention, and it doesn't matter what I do….she never even remembers my favorite colors or my favorite foods or the things I like…"
"Ron, you really should talk with your mother about this," Harry said. "If it's bothering you."
Ron nodded, but returned to the conversation.
"Would we be friends?" Ron asked. "Yes, or no?"
"I really don't think so," Harry said.
"Harry!" Hermione yelled. "I know you're mad but…."
"No, Hermione, he's right," Ron said calmly. "And I understand. He's not a bad person for admitting to that. Saying that I'm insecure, because I am. I know what the saying is in Gryffindor. What do they say, Ginny?"
"You can't spell irrational without Ron," Ginny said.
"I'm not ignorant to that," Ron said. "And somehow, I always knew that this was too good to last. Being friends with someone like Harry. Not just for the fame, but because of his character. I always would be second best, but…I'm glad for the four years I had, even if it's always going to be tainted because of the memory charm."
Ron took a second to reflect
"And this is just aligned with everything else I have," Ron said. "Second hand clothes, a second hand wand until the issue was forced, and now a second hand friend."
Ron deflated, as if trying to figure out where he stood.
"Astra clawed her way out of Hell to help Harry," Ron said. "And I'm not sure if I could do it."
"To be fair, you did do many great things," Harry said. "You sacrificed yoursel in that chess game, braved your worst fear in the Forbidden Forest, and stood on one leg against a man you thought was a deranged killer at the time."
"Point taken," Ron agreed. "But, you can't forget how I betrayed your trust at two very critical times in your life. The Tournament and now. And I'm like Dumbledore in that way."
"You're not that far gone," Astra said.
"Maybe," Ron agreed. "Look, if you need any help dealing with You-Know-Who, just tell me. I'll see what I can do. But otherwise, it's best we part ways. I can't…I can't bear to look at you without thinking about how our entire friendship was a lie."
"Ron, do what you feel is necessary," Harry said.
"I've got some things to sort out," Ron said. "But, I'm sorry. Really I am. I can't demand your forgiveness or your trust anymore. Take care, and thanks for putting up with me for all of these years."
And with that Ron walked out of the room. Hermione watched him leave.
"Give him some time," Hermione said. "He'll come around."
Harry just shrugged.
"He took it a lot better than I thought it would. Dumbledore's spiel spooked him and got him thinking."
Hermione and Harry locked eyes.
"Defend him," Harry said. "Maybe if you have a compelling argument, I'll hear you out. But, I doubt there's anything that you can say that could make up for what Dumbledore took from me."
"I'm not the happiest with what Dumbledore did," Hermione said. "But, what other choice does he have? Seeing that would have left you shattered and broken."
"And naturally, Dumbledore can't give Harry any mental drama, so he puts false memories of the Dursleys on top of his mind to cover him up," Ginny said while rolling her eyes. "Bars on the Window, Hermione? Cat Flap on the Door? Practically starved? Do I need to draw you a diagram about how Dumbledore knowingly putting Harry back there could have shattered Harry."
Hermione just swallowed.
"Dumbledore should have used his vast magical knowledge to help solve the problem, but he never does anything proactive, unless it fits the narrative he's used," Astra said.
"Constantine never should have dabbled in the magic he did, then maybe you wouldn't have been in Hell in the first place," Hermione said.
"He shouldn't have, but Dumbledore didn't help," Astra said.
Hermione turned her attention to Harry.
"Why did you tell my mother about what happened at Hogwarts?" Hermione demanded.
Harry noticed how strained she was and appreciated how strong the glamors she put on were.
"Because, she has the right to know," Harry said. "I was concerned. Just like you were when you went behind my back and told McGonagall about the Firebolt."
And again, Hermione looked as if Harry physically slapped her in the face.
"That's completely different!" Hermione practically shrieked. "You wouldn't have listened to reason, so I had no choice."
"Did you even try?" Harry asked. "Actually, would you have listened to reason?"
Hermione just threw her hands up.
"There's something else bothering you," Harry said. "I can tell."
"My parents are getting a divorce," Hermione said.
"I'm sorry, but I'm sure it can't be helped," Harry said.
"I've got to fix this," Hermione said.
This caused Harry to narrow his eyes at Hermione.
"You better explain to me what you mean."
"Oh, I know exactly what she means," Ginny said. "She's going to do something stupid, like enchant her parents to be together, or maybe her mother to forget. Because, they're just silly Muggles, who don't have any agency of their own and don't understand what's best for one understands what's best for them, other than the all powerful Hermione the Great!"
Hermione scowled at Ginny who barely flinched.
"I don't…I don't think that," Hermione said
"Don't you?" Ginny asked. "Sure looks like it. You act like your parents offended you personally by choosing to get a divorce."
"Well, it's my mother's choice, and she doesn't understand how it makes me…how it looks," Hermione said.
Hermione's near slip did not go unnoticed by Harry.
"Charlotte told me the only reason that she's even together with your father is because of you," Harry said. "That's the only reason why they're married in the first place. She's tried to make it work. For you."
And once again, Hermione looked like she had been physically slapped in the face.
"She hasn't been trying hard enough," Hermione murmured.
"Don't you think your mother deserves to be happy, Hermione?"
Hermione looked flustered completely.
"Of course, she does, but it's not right to give up after sixteen years of marriage without trying to make things work," Hermione said. "And just because….oh bugger me, my grandmother is right."
"What?" Harry asked.
"She's having an affair, I thought that she was….well never mind," Hermione said.
"Really, Hermione?" Ginny asked. "You think so little of your mother that…."
"I have to sort this out and sort this person out," Hermione said. "They ruined my parents' marriage. This is going to be my fault…because I couldn't be there to keep them stable."
"It's not your fault, Hermione," Harry told her gently.
"Oh, don't…it is!" Hermione shouted. "You don't understand what's on the line here! They have to remain together. She doesn't like…they just have to remain together! I've done so much, I can't give up now!"
For a second, the lights began to flicker. The door opened and Merula stepped inside just as Hermione was about ready to go off on her mother's mysterious lover. Unaware, that said lover was standing just about six feet away from her at the time.
"You really think you're going to ever make her happy, don't you?"
Hermione turned to Merula.
"Do you think you'll ever make her happy?" Merula asked. "Your grandmother? Do you ever think she'll be happy with anything you've done?"
Hermione gazed at Merula.
"It's not a hard question."
"I'm not trying hard enough," Hermione said calmly. "Everyone in my family has done so much. But, I can do more. I can be even more. I have to be the best. I have magic. There should be no excuse for me to fail. That's what she said. I had to make her proud. I should be the best of them all."
Merula just giggled.
"What's so funny?" Hermione asked.
"You, you're adorable," Merula mockingly cooed. "You really think that anything you accomplish is going to matter? Do you really think that anything you do will even matter the slightest?"
Hermione opened her mouth
"Listen, nothing you do matters. Everything you do is worthless. And you know why. Because, you're doing it for a cold-hearted harpy who only cares when people can make her look good by extension. You can climb to the highest mountain, she'll want you to climb one higher. You can perform the toughest spell. She'll want you to perform one even tougher. You brew the best potion. She'll want you to brew one better. You achieve the greatest honor. She'll want you to get one even greater!"
Merula stared Hermione dead in the eye.
"Joyce will never love you," Merula said coldly.
Even Astra, hardened by spending half of her life in Hell, flinched at Merula's very cold statement.
"Don't say that!" Hermione yelled.
"She'll never love you, because if it was possible to get her love, you would have already had it without even doing a single thing," Merula said. "Just because you're her granddaughter , you already did more than enough to earn her love. But, if you have to work this hard, then nothing you do matters!"
Hermione looked downtrodden for a second. Astra, Nora, and Harry all viewed the scene play out, like a train wreck they could not look away from.
"You keep doing everything to please them. It's never enough. Or it's never exactly how they want it done. Oh, you've done your best, and a little bit better, but you know something, Granger. YOU HAVEN'T ACCOMPLISHED SHIT!"
Hermione shivered at Merula's coarse words. Her hands started to shake.
"And you never will," Merula said. "Not as long as you keep dancing that woman's tune. Do you know what I would do to have a mother like yours? And you keep shunning the one woman in your life worth a damn, to try and please a woman who will never be pleased and will always guilt you into doing more to earn the illusion of her love."
"You don't understand," Hermione practically sobbed.
"Granger, I understand perfectly," Merula said curtly. "I've been in your place before. You're arrogant and pig-headed enough to believe you can win the affections of a cold-hearted bitch. Or maybe you're not scared. Scared of admitting that you're wrong. Scared of admitting you're not perfect."
Merula smiled and Hermione started to breath in and out heavily. Hermione's hand was on her wand.
"Are you going to hex me?" Merula asked her.
Hermione took a deep breath and calmed down.
"Enough, you've made your point," Harry said.
"Have I?" Merula asked. "Do you think the message will sink in?"
"You don't understand," Hermione murmured. "I can't…she….I can't."
"You have a choice to make," Harry said. "And for your sake, you better make the right one."
A light knock on the door broke the chill in the room. The door opened and Mrs. Weasley stuck her head in. Her timing could not have been more perfect.
"Ginny, we're heading back to the Burrow," Mrs. Weasley said.
"I thought we had to stay here due to the fact we were all in danger," Ginny said.
"Bill's going to put protections around the Burrow, he's already there with Cassandra," Mrs. Weasley said. "And Harry…I'm sorry. I never thought that Dumbledore would have done something like that. Maybe I should have looked at him a bit more closely. We supported Dumbledore, and it burned us."
Mrs. Weasley could barely look at Harry.
"I can assure you none of us would have condoned what happened to Astra if we knew about it," Arthur said.
"Can Harry come over for my birthday?" Ginny asked.
"If he wants to," Arthur said. "Although it does seem like he might be busy."
"I'll see if I can stop by," Harry said. "I'll owl you the day before."
Ginny hugged Harry goodbye. The elder Weasleys could not look Harry in the face and Harry understood their guilt. The followed the gospel of Dumbledore like so many. And as they left, Charlotte walked past them.
"Good luck," Molly murmured to Charlotte.
Charlotte nodded and walked in.
"Hermione?"
Hermione nodded when looking at her mother.
"I would like you to join me for lunch," Charlotte said. "So the two of us can have a talk. About everything."
"Right," a deflated Hermione said. "Harry…."
"You should go," Harry said. "Sort out yourself. We'll talk later."
Hermione said nothing and turned to walk out the door. Harry walked over to Charlotte.
"Everything going to be okay?" Harry asked her.
Once her daughter was out of sight, Charlotte stole a quick kiss from Harry.
"We're going to have to tell her eventually," Harry said.
"I know," Charlotte said. "And I'm going to have to trust my daughter, for Hermione to be able to trust me. I just hope she'll understand what I have to do."
Charlotte left, which left Harry along with Merula, Astra, and Nora.
"So, now what?" Astra asked.
"I don't know," Harry said. "I hope she wakes up a little bit."
"A good hard shock wakes people up,'' Merula said. "The real test will be if Granger can stand up to her grandmother. But…I'll be seeing you in a little bit. I need to blow off some steam, so let's duel."
Merula put her finger on Harry's chest.
"I've got a bone to pick with you, about making me meet with that woman," Merula said. "Joyce reminds me of my aunt, a bit too much."
"I'll be with you in five," Harry said. "You better be on your game tonight. I've learned some new tricks."
"You better be too," Merula said. "Because, I've got some aggression to work out."
Merula walked off and Harry looked around.
"I wish this house was cleaned up, I wish all of the books were put in their proper place in a library, and I wish all of the dark artifacts were filed away safely where no one can reach them," Harry said.
"Granted," Nora said.
"And I wish I was in the library."
Nora snapped her fingers and Harry, Nora, and Astra appeared in the library.
"Oh ,this is magnificent," Gideon piped up.
"I agree," Lily said. "Not as magnificent as Merula giving Hermione a reality check, but quite magnificent. Would you say there's several books in there that's not in the Hogwarts library or with Merlin's collection?"
"Oh, the Blacks were great collectors and hoarders of magical knowledge," Gideon said. "It shouldn't take too long to dignitize everything."
Harry leaned back and let Gideon do her thing. There were duplicate books in the library, but some unique books which would be very useful.
And after that was done, it was time for Harry to duel with Merula. He had a good feeling about this one.
Harry and Merula went at it in a duel which was extremely intense. It went on for quite some time, with Harry having an answer for everything Merula had and vice versa. Merula's intensity increased the faster they dueled. She fired off multiple spells and switched up her tactics.
All of Merula's best attacks had been disrupted and countered by Harry. She could not get a single spell on him and Merula was really holding nothing back. Harry waited for Merula to make the smallest mistake to take advantage. He found the opening and took it.
Lightning rippled through the room. Merula found herself caught completely off guard. Harry moved in and managed to get behind Merula. Harry's wand flew out of his hand and this allowed Harry to divert Merula's attention to stun her and knock her down to the ground.
Harry smiled, with seconds passing before she woke up.
"You've won," Merula told him.
"I know," Harry said.
"Congratulations," Merula said. "I'm going to have to step up my game fto an entirely new level. And you should do the same. You don't want to rest on one victory. But, you're amazing. And you should be rewarded."
Tonight, Harry won and he pulled Merula into a victory kiss. Merula returned the kiss, anticipation building through her. She kissed Harry back. While it had been only a couple of weeks in the real world, months had passed as they trained and prepared thanks to time dilation charms.
"Never has defeat been so sweet," Merula cooed.
Harry pressed his lips against Merula's and kissed her extremely hard. Harry unzipped Merula's suit, already fitting against her body like a second skin. Harry revealed Merula's round, perky breasts, flat tight stomach, and her succulent ass. Her pussy had been shaved into a lightning bolt strip of hair. Harry just smiled and cupped Merula's pussy before kissing her. He then kissed her. Every inch of her body had been explored and enjoyed. Harry kissed and licked Merula to make her shiver.
"I should be worshipping you," Merula said.
Harry pulled back and let Merula straddle him. Merula satisfied herself by stripping Harry down and revealing more and more of his body. Merula worked her way down him and pulled Harry's pants down and his shorts off, revealing his cock. Merula ground up against Harry.
"Just because you're on top doesn't mean you're in control."
Merula pulled back and locked her eyes on Harry's throbbing cock. Merula teased Harry with her foot, slowly stroking him. Merula leaned in and pushed Harry's cock between her feet. She leaned in and rubbed Harry's cock up and down with her feet. Those amazing arches rubbed against Harry's cock. Harry ran his fingers down her feet and her legs and made her shudder as she gave Harry an amazing footjob.
The moment Harry pulled away from Merula's feet, she opened up her mouth. She took Harry's cock between her lips and sucked it hard. Harry grabbed ahold of Merula, her violet eyes locked onto his green ones. Harry pushed into her and started to throat fuck her.
"Let's see."
Harry grabbed ahold of Merula's hair and face-fucked her hard. Merula gasped and moaned and acted like she was angry, but Harry naturally worked his pole into her mouth. Merula hummed and sucked Harry's cock. Harry leaned in and Merula choked on him.
She acted like she was angry, but Harry knew better. He pounded Merula's throat and savored in the promise of what he would receive when besting her in a duel. Merula edged deeper inside of her. He started, much like his duel, slow, and then sped up to face-fuck Merula. Merula slurped him.
"You're enjoying this, pet."
Merula leaned in and pushed her beautiful face into Harry's pelvis before exploding into the back of her throat. Merula swallowed Harry's cum, like a goddess. She sucked his cock hard.
The second Harry pulled out of Merula's mouth, he hoisted her up and without warning, threw her onto the bed. Harry grabbed ahold of Merula and in a second, he was hard enough to drive his big fat cock inside of her.
"Oooh, your power!" Merula moaned. "OOOH, YES!"
Harry pumped deeper inside of her. Merula's pussy formed a tight seal around Harry. Harry edged inside of her and could feel her walls working around him.
"I made you earn this, I didn't throw that duel," Merula said. "And now you want to dominate me after I beat you several times. Do it! Do it, hero!"
Harry grabbed Merula and pounded her senseless. Merula milked and released his cock. This gorgeous witch tightened her walls around Harry. Harry used her as his own personal fuck sleeve. Harry's hands ran down her body and kissed her. Her nipples hardened and Harry sucked on them.
"Those hands, those lips, deadly," Merula breathed for him. "But, that cock…it's a weapon of mass seduction!"
Harry pushed into Merula. The warmth of her pussy worked him over.
"If I succumb, those silly little girls don't stand a chance," Merula said. "I'm the most powerful witch there is."
"So, you get the hardest fucking."
Harry bent Merula over the edge of the bed and plowed her doggy style. Each slap of Harry's balls against her drove Merula wild. Harry pressed down and cradled her tits and kept pounding her. Merula's insides wrapped around him. She squeezed him with all of the force like a tight fist in velvet.
Harry let Merula cum, multiple times, prior to his balls unleashing. One more glorious push followed and Harry spilled his nut inside of Merula. He unleashed quite the creampie against her.
Merula closed her eyes. She did not care if she had been protected against getting pregnant. Because, at this point, Harry more than earned the right to breed her. Their daughters would be magical powerhouses.
The moment Harry pulled from Merula, a naked Cassie dove bomb him and kissed him madly. The athletic redhead witch peppered the side of his face with kisses and ran her hands down her body.
"For convincing me to lead the Order, you owe me a good hard fucking," Cassie said.
"And I'll give it to you," Harry said. "Enjoy watching me with Merula?"
"Yes," Cassie said. "It's long overdue to see her get humbled."
Harry pinned Cassie down onto the bed and spread her legs. His immense length slid into Cassie and he enjoyed her tightness cradling him as he entered her.
Finally, Cassandra Jacobs received the hard fucking she craved for a long time. The sheer power of the Boy-Who-Lived overwhelmed her. Cassie wrapped her gorgeous legs around Harry and encouraged him to keep fucking her. Harry leaned in and kissed Cassie's neck.
"You're the perfect leader," Harry said. "They won't take me seriously because I'm in Dumbledore's shadow. Not yet."
"They'll learn," Cassie mewled. "They'll learn, either they'll follow you or get out of the way. And I'm not going to put up with Dumbledore's shit!"
Harry leaned in and pounded Cassie vigorously. Their bodies melded together, with intense heat. Harry leaned in and kept pounding her. Her walls tightened around him and she spilled her juices in.
"Savor the fruits of your victory, hero," Merula moaned.
Merula bent over to showcase her asshole, which had been lubed up. Harry pulled out of Cassie and ran his hands over Merula's body.
"You're a butt slut, aren't you?" Harry asked.
"For you, I will be," Merula said. "You've earned it. With your victory. No holds barred."
"Very dangerous."
Cassie sucked Harry's cock a few more times to get him nice and ready. Then Harry took the plunge and entered Merula's ass. Harry loved taking the arses of willing women and Merula was very willing. She felt tight, extremely tight, and Harry could not wait to stretch him out.
"Harry," Merula murmured. "Yes."
"Wreck her!" Cassie yelled while teasing Merula's slit. "Make sure she doesn't sit for a week!"
Cassie lowered her mouth down Merula's body and with practiced ease, slipped between her legs. Harry leaned in and shoved his big fat cock into her ass. Harry's balls slapped down into her. Cassie moved down and slurped Merula's pussy, while also teasing Harry's balls.
"Good," Merula moaned while Harry twisted her nipples. "Shiva will be pleased."
Harry rammed Merula's tight anal hole and took her arse hard. Harry edged into her. Harry grabbed ahold of Merula's hair for leverage and shoved his rod into her from behind. Harry sucked Merula's neck. She was really into the rough stuff and Harry was really getting into taking the woman anally.
"Bust that nut into her slutty ass," Cassie said. "I want to see her dripping and gaping all time."
Harry thought that sounded like a good idea. Merula's asshole tightened around him. For the second time tonight, Harry was going to empty his load inside of a woman. Harry leaned in and with Cassie milking his balls, he rode Merula to another orgasm.
One more grunt, and Harry nutted deep inside of her. Merula's tight asshole clamped down onto him with Harry edging inside of her. Harry gave her a nice long ride and finished emptying his seed into her ass.
No sooner did Harry leave Merula's arse, Cassie dove in and gave him a sloppy and quite slutty blowjob to give him all clean up. This redhead firebrand throwing his cock made Harry groan in pleasure. She slurped him.
"You dirty girl."
Cassie licked her lips clean and climbed atop of Harry. She pushed him back. Then, Cassandra Jacobs lowered herself down onto Harry's cock. The two enjoyed each other and fucked like rabbits. Cassie impaled herself up and down on Harry's cock.
"You knocked up Chiara, Penny, and likely Merula," Cassie said. "But, I'm not leaving without a big creampie inside of me…and you're going to flood me, aren't you?"
Merula watched Cassie's long and vigorous ride. Harry pushed deeper inside of Cassie and she tightened around him.
"Fuck her up," Merula said. "Break that slut on your cock."
Cassie edged down and used her walls to milk Harry.
"You can't take that cock as well as I could, Jacobs," Merula said.
"We'll see."
Cassie descended all the way down and took Harry into her depths. Harry felt pure paradise. Magic surrounded his cock when Cassie used her inner walls around him.
Magic caused Harry's balls to swell, but not empty. Cassie just grinned when rocking back and forth onto Harry. Her inner walls clutched him. With another groan, Harry felt his balls getting tighter and thicker. Harry pressed Cassie down and with one last glorious plunge, she descended down onto him.
"It's only fair," Cassie said. "I get the biggest creampie you can give me."
"Agreed," Harry said. "I owe you big time."
Harry worked into Cassie who trapped his cock inside her. Harry entered her enchanting pussy and with one more push, she came. And Harry came. Harry felt himself lose it, with Cassie milking a very vigorous load inside of her body. Cassie tilted herself back and let out one final moan of pleasure as Harry finished spilling inside of her.
Cassie's stomach swelled as Harry finished inside of her. Harry's balls finished emptying every last drop of seed inside of her.
"You forgot the contraceptive potion," Cassie said.
"So did you," Merula said.
"True."
The two witches decided not to worry about the consequences. They instead worried about worshipping Harry's cock and acted like they wanted to suck his brains out.
Harry realized neither Cassie nor Merula wanted to blink first. Which meant these ladies were pretty much for anything.
Anything.
Harry prepared to test their limits, which they appeared to have none for the moment. Cassie and Merula worked their bodies to physical and magical perfection and Harry enjoyed exploring them. And Harry willed the night away stuffing them again and again.
To Be Continued in 2023.