This story is based on characters and developed from some situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
Chapter 14
Mind Your Step
10th July. Day 13 continued.
While Arthur was meeting with Sirius at Grimmauld Place, Amelia Bones approached her office, a little apprehensively. She had not felt this nervous, simply going to work, since the morning she had first trod this path as the new head of this department. She knew that with the new Wards capturing every employee with the Dark Mark every department including, to her anger, her own had lost staff, thought that was only part of her worries. Most of the rest, though not all, was from knowing this was to be a long and difficult day, with a number of interviews to be conducted, regarding the Potter, Black, Ashmole case.
They already had a number of people in custody, including the extradited relatives of Harry, who would be interviewed separately. She understood that Mr. Dursley would be truculent and demand imagined rights as he proclaimed his own importance, Mrs. Dursley was likely to be resentful that her sisters world was again encroaching on her life, while their son was simply a spoiled brat. It was young Dudley who was likely to reveal the most, thinking he was showing off, his parents would require different techniques, although as a last resort she would use Veritaserum on them if she had to. It was rare that the potion was administered on Muggles, while it would guarantee truthful answers, it had been known to badly affect Muggles in the past as a side effect, so its use was to be avoided if possible. The very last resort would be to draw the information directly from their minds if Amelia's teams had to, she knew now that Albus had used this method almost habitually on others, but it was regarded as a last resort under the extradition agreements. She was awaiting news of the Arrests of two other key individuals, one she knew would be difficult, the other simply resentful, then she would be interviewing Dumbledore about his activities as reported by the head of the Goblin nation. She and a team of Aurors would be interviewing quite a number of other people as well, but that was only part of her worry.
Knowing that last night the teenagers from the old Potter alliance families had met, her niece Susan amongst them, and having listened to what she had been told of that gathering, she was expecting her in-tray to have more work in it than usual, which she expected would add to the ongoing investigations. The apprehension of seeing how full the tray was, was justified. She opened the door of her office to see the tray was stacked high with parchments that had arrived overnight and were awaiting her attention. She sat, at the desk sifted through them, sorting them by subject and urgency, she soon realised that the Potter's had indeed had a busy day, before last nights meeting.
Susan had not been exaggerating with what she had told her, Amelia swore under her breath, she now realised her niece telling her that this year at Hogwarts would be interesting was underplaying the situation somewhat, a habit she shared with the teenager. The head of the DMLE hoped Dumbledore would be sensible over this, it was such a difficulty getting a new head teacher for Hogwarts, especially with the political situation as volatile as it was. She had noted, while looking through the records, that Albus had been the only candidate to come forward when he had been appointed. Even the then Deputy Head had not applied, as had been expected, leaving the Governors little option to appoint the man who although distinguished by his defeat of Grindelwald, had only been a head of house in the school for a year or two.
As she sifted the parchments, she realised the memos on the Potter case out numbered all those on the various progress reports and arrests made overnight on the other cases they were working on. She quickly dealt with the routine paperwork, checking on the daily reports and routine, ensuring she had an overview of the routine of her Aurors, signing them off, and writing the summary report for the Ministers office. She then concentrated on the stack of reports about the Potters and compiling a supplemental report for the Minister to follow the progress report on that investigation which she had sent last night just before she had gone home.
Amelia had just finished that report and was about to send it off when an Owl arrived with the morning edition of the Daily Prophet looking at the front page she knew that within minutes, the ministry would be in further turmoil than it was already after the staff losses.
The front page read like a contents list of headlines, all of which would normally have rated sole occupancy of the front page, it seemed the editor had been unable to choose one as more important than the others. "Ministry acts to protect property." Read one, followed by. "Wizangamot seats reclaimed by lost heirs." And. "Dementor attack on Diagon Alley." Then. "Under secretary exceeds authority, attempts to arrest the Magical Earl."
Those headlines were sensational enough, but there was still more. "Dumbledore arrested. He who must not be named, named. Potter heir dating Weasley daughter? The vanishing scar of Harry Potter." And finally "Death eaters captured." Because they ere all on the front page, the head lines did not have any of the story with it, simply a page number where the story it referred to could be found.
With headlines like those, the usual columnists, readers letters, reviews and sports reports and the days radio schedule, were all crammed into the last two pages. The rest of the thick newspaper was filled with the main stories, along with the known backgrounds on Harry, Ginny, Dumbledore, Umbridge and Riddle along with details of how to obtain the new ward.
Amelia sighed, for once the paper had not needed to sensationalise its stories. Although, she noticed, it had not been able to resist a story on the couple, speculating on the relationship between them, how so many Witches would be disappointed that Harry was taken, and when wedding bells may be heard. She continued to read the paper, until there was a sharp tap at the door. Looking up she called out her usual cheery. "Come in."
The door opened, and the subject of one of the stories, the one regarding the events in Diagon Alley, walked in. The visitor instantly spotted that Amelia had the paper on her desk, open at the story about her. "Ah Amelia, I see you have read that scurrilous article in this mornings Prophet, I was horrified by that article describing how Mr. Potter wheedled his way out of trouble. The way they described me, quite ridiculous. It is a fine example of completely biased writing, giving titles to those who are undeserving, I mean calling someone of Potter's birth my Lord, that can't be right. I trust this demonstrates that setting Black free to look after Potter, was, while well-intentioned, a mistake which we must act urgently to rectify." Umbridge simpered patronisingly.
Amelia smirked. "Would that be the story in which you appear to have brought the Ministry into disrepute, Delores? Fancy overstepping your authority like that, especially in front of so many members of our community."
Umbridge bristled at the none to subtle criticism in the Head of departments statement. "Actually that is the very subject on which I wish to speak with you Amelia, as the head of your department. I have to say that in acting as she did in Diagon Alley, Hopkirk clearly abused her position, in publicly overruling me in the proper course of my duties as an officer of the Ministry. Her actions were obstructive and laid me open to unwarranted ridicule, as demonstrated by that scurrilous article. Therefore, I wish to place a formal complaint with you, as her superior, about her actions."
Amelia steepled her fingers and looked thoughtfully at the toad like woman for a moment before responding. "Are you absolutely certain that you want to do that Delores? If, as this story indicates, she acted entirely properly, then you could find yourself brought up on charges of maliciously accusing a ministry official in order to prevent that officer conducting their lawful duties, or for personal gain."
Umbridges expression clouded. "Are you telling me you have already decided the outcome of this case, before even conducting your own investigation, thereby prejudicing it?"
"No Delores, certainly not. I am simply pointing out the consequences of a malicious complaint, should one be made. As I already pointed out there were a rather large number of witnesses present, many can be identified in the photograph within the article, including a head of department, and members of the Wizangamot, I am sure if needed others would be willing to come forward. Again from the article, they would all appear to disagree with your assertion that Mafalda acted improperly, many are quoted within it questioning your actions, not one seems to question hers. The would seem to indicate, at least provisionally, that you may well be ill advised to lodge a complaint, however, if you are really serious about pressing this investigation, then I shall certainly conduct it. Though in order to prevent any other insinuations otherwise, it shall be conducted interviewing all those giving statements or being questioned with the use of Veritaserum, so the veracity of what they say is beyond doubt. Shall I request that my Aurors begin the questioning and gathering of evidence?"
Umbridge smiled maliciously and was about to eagerly agree, when Amelia spoke again.
"They shall, of course, begin by interviewing yourself, as the complainant. Luckily we have, just yesterday, received a fresh batch of Veritaserum."
Umbridges face fell like a stone and she paled. "Is that strictly necessary Amelia, surely my word is enough?"
"Perhaps it may have been, if you had not already implied possible prejudice on my part. Unfortunately you did, so yes it is necessary, in order that it can be shown that all interviewees were treated equally and without bias. You would need to have made a formal report in any case, but now a formal interview with the Serum is needed according to the regulations, without it there can be no official complaint to investigate."
"Well you shall have to do without it, I haven't time for all that, as under-secretary to the Minister himself I am very busy, as I am sure you can appreciate." Umbridge stated firmly.
"Well in that case, we have a problem. As I told you, without your testimony, there is no case to investigate." Amelia sighed, feigning disappointment.
"Well as head of her department, you cannot allow Hopkirk to abuse her position as she has and get away with it, she must be disciplined." Umbridge insisted.
"Indeed it is a very serious accusation, one that naturally deserves proper examination to establish if it is valid and supportable. As I say I am more than happy to conduct such an investigation, within the rules laid down. I can only ensure justice with the cooperation of all involved, as I am sure you understand. So, will you consent to immediate interview under Veritaserum so that, that can be achieved, Madam under-secretary?"
"Err no, perhaps you are right Amelia, it could easily be misconstrued that I am simply out to get her, because of the report in the paper rather than her own actions." With that, Umbridge practically ran from the room, leaving a grinning Amelia who returned to her work, with a renewed enthusiasm, her first task to send a memo to Mafalda warning her that Delores was gunning for her.
Kingsley and Tonks interrupted her moments later.
"All those you wanted bringing in, are in the cells now boss." Kingsley nodded, knowing better than to enquire what had sent Umbridge practically fleeing from the department.
Amelia smiled. "Good! Both of you get the interview teams together to question them, leave Dumbledore for the last, the more information about these matters that we have ahead of that particular interview, the better. He has a real knack for not answering with as many words as he can, so we need to remove as much of his wiggle room as we can."
Grinning Tonks bowed theatrically. "As you wish, oh great and powerful leader." She said backing from the room.
Amelia shook her head, chuckling, as the two Aurors left to carry out her instructions. "Tonks you will be with me chatting with the bearded one for that." She called smiling while the young Auror bowed.
When Harry, Ginny and Bella got to the family lounge, they found the others reading the morning paper, there were spare copies on the coffee table for them. After Sirius had read the usual copy that had arrived, he had sent Kreacher to the papers offices to obtain more copies, enough for each of them to have one. The reports in the Prophet were received with mixed emotions, by each of them. They were pleased with some, whilst other articles they were less happy with. However, they decided that on balance the stories were pretty good, at least from their point of view. The important news of the re-emergence of the Blacks, Potters and Ashmole's would undermine the factions that clamoured for power to fill the vacuum its absence had left in their world, weakening both Voldemort and Dumbledores power bases.
Just as they finished discussing the articles, an owl arrived with the first report on progress at Gringotts for Harry and Ginny. It seemed that the Goblins were relishing the search for additional Horcrux's, and their part in rebuilding the blossoming dynasties, which they had helped rediscover. Sirius had observed that he suspected the Goblins were probably enjoying sticking it up the snooty pure bloods too, going by the letter and their part in the articles together.
Harry and Ginny with Sirius and Bella were due to have lunch with Neville and his grandmother at a small restaurant in Diagon Alley, so they set off to walk there about half an hour before they were due to meet them. They made it to the Leaky Cauldron quite quickly, but it took quite a while to get through the busy pub. They seemed to be stopped by everyone to be given congratulations, or asked questions about the reports in the paper. In the end, Tom helped them get through to the yard, where Bella opened the wall with her wand. The view of the Alley was not reassuring, there was a throng of people milling around between the shops, just as there had been the day before. They had hoped it might be quieter, but knew that was unlikely, although the Hogwarts lists were yet to be issued, the summer holidays were in full swing for families and others having a day out. However, most appeared to be distracted by their own activities, barely taking notice of others in the street, unless they happened to spot someone they knew.
They made their way into the Alley and made it almost halfway along it, keeping their heads down, before they began to be noticed and recognised, at which point their progress was slowed as people wanted to speak with one or other of them, mainly Harry and Ginny. There were still people who regarded Sirius and Bella with suspicion, but others spoke to them both as well. Although their progress was slowed, they kept moving towards their destination and managed to get through the door of the timber framed building only a few minutes later than the arranged time.
The interior was old-fashioned, but warm and comfortable, about a dozen tables were well spaced around the rooms. They were shown to a table away from the window, where Neville sat with his Grandmother, a formidable looking lady, who rose as they arrived. She looked on sternly as Neville introduced them to her, she was especially uneasy when she was presented to Bella.
"Lady Longbottom, I have been told that Lysandra Lestrange, née Malfoy, attacked your son and his wife to such an extent that they have remained in St Mungos ever since, while she was impersonating me." Bella said softly. "I understand that both you and Neville have reason to resent me as a result of their actions, but know that the person who committed that appalling deed was not me. I was never a Lestrange, I was not responsible for their actions, I am prepared to take an oath to that effect if you wish."
Lady Longbottom thought for a moment, then shook her head. "No Lady Black, that will not be necessary, I am just being foolish. I know it wasn't you who tortured them, I just need to get over all these years of a wrong belief. I know the real culprit is in Azkaban, I also know that the Lestranges are to be sentenced for those crimes, now that they have confessed. When it boils down to it, you are as much a victim of theirs as anybody is. Please do not worry, you will be more than welcome in my home."
"That is good to hear." Bella smiled. "I am grateful to you for the chance to show you who I am, not the person they created. It is a worry for me, just how their victims will react to my presence, it is reassuring that you will give me a chance. I hope to show that the Bella I was before, when I was an Auror working alongside Sirius and your son amongst others, is the real me."
Lady Longbottom smiled, turning her attention to great the others as well. The group sat and made small talk, while they perused the menu, Harry a little nervously. He still wasn't used to being able to chose what ever he liked, thanks to the Dursleys. On the very rare occasions that they had been forced to take him out with them for a meal, he had not even been able to look at a Menu and had been given the poorest, cheapest food available. Even at Hogwarts it had really only been at the banquets that he had, had a choice, most meals had been a set menu, so it was not something he was used to doing. Eventually he chose a Yorkshire Pudding filled with a lamb stew, while Ginny had one with a Chicken Stew and Neville chose the same, but with a Beef one. Bella and Augusta both chose one of the pasta dishes, while Sirius selected a Burger with chips. They all ordered drinks to go with their meals, Bella and Augusta sharing a pot of tea, Sirius had an Ale while the three teens chose butter beer. The drinks were brought to the table after a few minutes for them to enjoy, while they continued to talk, before the food arrived.
Once their meals arrived, and they knew they would not be disturbed until they had finished, the conversation turned to discussing what they were meeting for. The Longbottoms were Harry's closest relatives not resident at Grimmauld Place. Neville had told his Grandmother what they had discussed at the meeting the evening before, and she had read the article about Sirius and Bella, so they started by answering Augusta's questions about that. Those discussions naturally lead onto the plans for ensuring Harry and Ginny received the appropriate training they needed before they returned to school in a few weeks, as well as longer term. She immediately offered to help them all with the etiquette of the Wizangamot, an offer they all accepted without hesitation. They spoke about the resurrection of the Alliance, how best to progress it and what influence it would exert to restore Wizarding society. This all lead to them finishing with then discussing the aspirations they all held for the Alliance, then personally.
By the end of the meal it felt like they had enjoyed a family meal, Harry and Ginny felt reassured that they were getting the best support they could have as they entered their new lives and Sirius and Bella began to rebuild theirs. It was quite a team that was coming together for them all, Griphook and Ragnar, with the department of Mysteries at one end of the scale, Narcissa, Augusta and their contemporaries all joining forces, it was becoming a powerful block at the head of the regrowing organisation. Even so, they knew they had much to learn in a very short time, they also would need to be seen in society at large to reassure those not in the Alliance that they would still have a place, they were not having to choose between dictatorships. Harry and Ginny already knew that the Alliances influence was not in dictating, but in generating wealth and inspiring others. The families in it may have sworn their loyalty to one of the three families, and any who betrayed it may suffer the consequences of not being able to turn to the others in times of need any longer, that umbrella was removed. Being part of the Alliance held influence, and all outside it knew they could use its services or buy its products with confidence, and once word spread that Basilisk holdings was the Alliance, that reputation should be restored. That assurance was the basis of their influence, rather than any desire for personal power for any individual in it.
As the bill was paid for the meal, the proprietor came over to them. "I am sorry, My lords, My Ladies, but there is quite a crowd outside, waiting for your reappearance in the street. Might I suggest you leave by the Floo in my quarters upstairs, to avoid the problem of getting past them."
They accepted his offer, they glanced out of the window that overlooked the alley, it seemed dark with the crowd blocking the light, although they could see a path to the door had been left. They followed the man upstairs, having arranged for Neville to visit them and for them all to meet again soon. Augusta and Neville left first, then Harry turned to the proprietor. "Thank you, for a lovely meal and for this, it is much appreciated."
"Not a problem my Lord, you are my landlord, and I am of an Alliance family, I believe my niece was at your gathering last night, though I am yet to speak with her." He replied.
Harry nodded, then he turned and entered the Floo, after Bella and Ginny, emerging in the family lounge at Grimmauld Place, Sirius hot on his heels. It was only when his Uncle had emerged, that Harry realised he had not fallen when he had emerged from the fireplace himself, he looked down puzzled, trying to remember when that had changed.
Ginny noticed and grinned at him. "You just realised, Harry? You know you have managed the Floo without falling out of the fireplaces ever since the Goblins removed the blocks, and that thing from your scar. I noticed straight away, but I doubt anyone else has, not yet anyway."
He thought briefly and realised she was right. Ginny giggled and led him to a seat where they settled for the afternoon.
Bella headed for the door though. "Oi you two come on, we have missed too much already." She called.
"What? Where to?" Ginny asked.
Bella rolled her eyes. "Oh, for goodness' sake, I want to see if Hermione has finished thinking yet, of course. You may have seen that moment of clarity, but I don't want to miss my first opportunity to see it." She rushed out of the door, leaving Harry, Ginny, Draco and Sirius in hysterics and Narcissa looking at them puzzled.
"What in Merlins name is she on about now, there are times I wonder if my Sister is quite mad, and what on earth are you all laughing at?" She said, making them all laugh all the harder.
A few minutes later, not long after the laughter had calmed and Draco had explained things to his mother, who shook her head grinning wryly, a disappointed looking Bella returned.
"She wasn't there." She pouted, causing the four to burst into laughter again.
Narcissa chuckled but rolled her eyes at their antics before they all settled down for the afternoon, with Draco joining his mother in starting to brief the couple on their position in society and the etiquette expected of them..
During the afternoon, both Harry and Ginny were receiving almost hourly updates on their holdings from Griphook, as the Goblin discovered more while he was amalgamating the paperwork. The investigations into activities on Harry's vaults was revealing more than simply who now owed them money, as a result of Dumbledores activities. Some of those had used the money that had been taken to invest in property and companies, which now transferred to Harry, along with anything that had been earned from them. The couple were very aware that this would likely be the calm before the storm, once Dumbledore, Molly and Ron were discharged and returned to the house, they were bound to want to try to regain control of them. The headmaster would be especially desperate, they suspected, given the amount he owed even after his vaults and property had been seized. These concerns were heightened a little, when their afternoon was interrupted, with a Floo call that preceded a visit from Arthur.
Arthur had, had a difficult morning in the office, he knew that his wife and youngest son were being questioned downstairs and hoped there was nothing more to be revealed that he knew nothing about. He knew they had to go back to Grimmauld Place at some point, he had even been to speak with Amelia about holding them in custody whilst he tried to prepare the way for a controlled, peaceful return. By mid-afternoon he called Sirius and left his office to meet briefly with the Blacks, Harry and Ginny, he needed to discuss things with them, before his wife and youngest son returned.
"I will not attempt to excuse their behaviour, I believe it to be inexcusable to do what either of them have done, however I hope we can resolve this between us." Arthur admitted.
Sirius looked to Harry and Ginny, who nodded to him.
Sirius nodded back and turned to Arthur. "I hope we can reach an accommodation, it will of course depend on their behaviour on return here and what it is that you propose."
"Yes, I know, and cannot disagree with that at all, you are their victims here." Arthur sighed. " As head of their house, I need to take responsibility for them, and what they have done. I need to ensure I control the influence Albus has with them, especially over Molly. It is not an excuse, but she still feels the loss of her brothers deeply, she practically raised them after her parents died, then she let them join the order, and they got killed. She blames herself for it and I think put too much faith in Albus as a result. I am sorry to say that she seems to follow him blindly and Ron follows her. That all may explain how she got led into this, but it does not excuse it, or help anyone."
Harry nodded and added. "Sadly I have noticed that Ron is also driven by jealousy, he craves the attention he sees others getting, even if it's that they are only getting it in his opinion not in reality, or that they have worked to earn it where he wouldn't have. He believes he deserves the success he sees others having by right, even that of his siblings. He has a blind spot to what others have been through, he cannot see the advantages he has had in life unfortunately. He may never have really been my friend, and I am not saying he can be now, but I cared about him and I hope he can get the help he needs."
Ginny nodded. "I'm afraid that's true about Ron, he sees others achievements as rewards being taken away from him. He was appalled with those of us who supported Harry, when his name came out of the Goblet, last year. The only reason he made up with Harry was because he received instructions from Molly to do so, he is a spineless, jealous fool."
Arthur was naturally saddened by what he was told, but knew that none of it was malicious, so he sought a way forward. "So I need to deal with two problems, Molly's blind loyalty and Ron's greed for attention."
There was a moment of thoughtful silence, before Sirius seemed to have an idea.
"Can you get the rest of your family together Arthur?" Sirius asked.
"Well, I don't know about Percy, but otherwise probably."
"Leave Percy to me, get the others here this evening, or at the least at the other end of a Floo call, I suggest it is time for a Weasley family court to be convened." Sirius said.
Arthur looked surprised. "What? I've never held a family court, come to think of it neither did my father." He mused. "But, it would resolve the problem, or split the family in the process."
Bella spoke for the first time. "There is that risk of course Arthur, and it is up to you in the end, it is not something done lightly in any family. However, at the very least it should make the two of them realise how seriously you take their actions and you will discover if they value the family over Dumbledore or not. There's also the added bonus that he cannot interfere with it, without your invitation as head of house."
Arthur nodded. "You have a good point Lady Black. It requires three independent witnesses, Sirius would you be one? It is your idea, after all."
Sirius agreed. "If you want me to be, then of course I will Arthur."
"Good, I'll ask Remus and Mad Eye to be the others, I can contact them quite easily, I am sure they will help." Arthur said then turned to Harry and Ginny. "I'm sorry you two, but you are just to close to this to for you to be part of it really. Given the headmasters involvement we shall need it to be seen to be as independent as possible, so he cannot claim otherwise."
They both nodded. "Not to worry Arthur, I suspect that if we were there it would not help calm the situation anyway." Harry consoled.
Arthur and Sirius left to make the arrangements, they had agreed it would be held downstairs where they could secure the room fully, they both then left to the Ministry.
Sirius returned to the house after half an hour. "Percy is with Arthur now, being told what has been going on, although he had read the papers, so he wasn't completely in the dark. That said, he was surprised about who Lady Ashmole is. I hadn't realised, but the papers didn't report who the Ashmole heir is, just that they had claimed their seat in the Wizangamot and had described both Potter and Black houses as Familial. Most people he has talked to, seem to have simply taken that as an indication that the Alliance will return. Anyway, even before he learned that, Percy is actually quite relieved that he has a way to reconcile and is more than happy to help his father." He told them.
After that, the rest of the afternoon was taken up for Harry and Ginny, with Narcissa resuming her briefing of them on whose who in the Wizarding world. Sirius and Bella also taking careful note, after all they had a lot to learn and catching up to do as well, after their enforced long absences from society.
Once again Dumbledore was furious at the turn of events he had been forced to endure, at the hands of the ministry, it seemed that he was being treated as if he had done something wrong, as if he were a common criminal. The lack of respect he had received during questioning, had been infuriating to say the least. They had questioned his every answer, dismissed his platitudes and diversions, his reasoning had been probed deeply. He could not recall when his motives had been questioned so thoroughly, or his word doubted to such an extent, his answers challenged by other sources. They had put credence on evidence provided by a Goblin over his own explanations, for one thing. They had been searching records he had wanted to be kept hidden, they had questioned why he had sealed them. His achievements had counted for nothing, even though he believed the Wizarding world and everyone in it owed him for them. He was above such matters, he had done what he did for the greater good, his word should be accepted, and he ought to be allowed to do what ever he believed was necessary, without have his actions or his integrity questioned.
It was not just the questioning, someone had dropped a copy of the Prophet in his cell, the stories it was filled with infuriated him. Not simply the stories involving Harry, which were damaging enough to his plans, but how had Gringotts discovered Voldemorts true identity and why had they allowed it to be Published. Worse still the paper had reported exactly what had happened at the Wizangamot and his role in it, then they had reported on his arrest and that it was not the first time he had found himself in a cell this week, they had even surmised it was linked with the fake Will he had shown at the Wizangamot and that he had illegally interfered in the affairs of the Potters. The reporter even hinted that he was investigating further, having discovered that as Chief Warlock he had allowed Lord Blacks imprisonment.
Albus knew the reports would erode what standing he had left, until now it had all been positions taken from him, which was bad enough, but now his public standing, the basis of his influence, was being worn away, and he could do little about it. He did not know how, but this all had to be the boy's fault. Potter had to be the cause of all this, together with Black. Everything had started unravelling the moment Black had been released, Albus was surprised to realise that had only been a week ago. There had been so many things go wrong since then, all made worse by the actions of the boy. Dumbledore knew he would have to regain control of him quickly and now the boy had full control of his inheritance, he would have to be persuaded to hand it over, before he was sacrificed for the greater good of course.
He had been quite pleased to see it was Amelia who would lead the interview, when she had walked into his cell and conjured a table and three chairs, two facing the single one. She had indicated that he should sit on the single chair, which he did, two other Aurors entered, he recognised Tonks, who it seemed was to be co interviewer, that raised his spirits further, she was a member of his Order after all. The third person, who Albus recognised as a student, a Hufflepuff, who had left Hogwarts two years ago and was in their final year of training. The trainee conjured a chair near the door, he would record the interview, both in writing and his memory would be drawn and sealed to be used later.
As was required, once Amelia had named all present in the room for the record, and read out the reasons for the interview, she offered Albus the opportunity to have a legal advisor present to advise him during the interview, an offer he turned down. That had been the third time it had been offered to him since his arrest, with the same response each time. That had been the last time an answer he gave, had been taken at face value and not examined further. As far as he was concerned, from that point on the questions became more and more impertinent, his motives examined closely, his guardianship of Potter dismissed as a delusion on his part. His platitudes were ignored, his claims of the greater good questioned, it was as if none of them respected that, or him and his anger grew as they failed to just accept what he said, despite the evidence that they showed him, including that Will, could they not see what a waste of time this investigation was? He was released on a strict bail with numerous conditions imposed, in the late afternoon, a whole day wasted when he should have been making efforts to return things to the correct path.
Albus walked up the stairs from the cells, exuding power in his fury, determined to reopen Potters eyes and control him. He would force the boy to end this petty investigation and hand over all his wealth and power, it was what he deserved. He had until his trial in September to achieve his goal, but he intended to have the boy back under control before then. Glancing up to the top of the stairs, the last flight before he was on a level where he could call a lift, was a sight that caused a smile to grow on his lips. There, waiting at the top of the steps were the two people who would unquestioningly support him, and were perfectly placed to help him retrieve Potter as expeditiously as possible.
Seeing him approach the elder of the two spoke. "Albus, what is going on? We have both been questioned regarding the arrangements in place for us with Harry, and they knew about those to do with Ginny as well. When I asked that you be present as our advisor they said that you were busy being questioned as well, we had to make do with a duty Solicitor. He was terrible, told us off for being evasive in our answers, told us it was in our best interests, he refused to accept that we were acting with your blessing and that should be enough. Now we are to stand trial for the attempted theft of an ancient and noble line, even kidnapping." Molly demanded.
"Not to mention theft from that idiot Potter." Ron grumbled sullenly.
Albus was facing the same charges, among others, but did not want to reveal that to them. He smiled, his eyes twinkling reassuringly. "Don't worry Molly, my dear, I have been questioned, but as you can see I have been released, so there is nothing you need to be concerned about. I shall sort all of this out as soon as we can, now come, let us go to my office at Hogwarts to discuss this in private, it is a little public here."
"I knew you would be able to sort all this out, Albus." Molly smiled and followed the headmaster to the lift, Ron trailing sulkily behind.
They arrived in a quiet Atrium, most of the Ministry staff had already left for the day as the various offices closed for business, those that remained were finalising their days duties before departing, leaving the building to the small number of night staff. A family of three were being escorted towards the visitors entrance, the two males were obviously obese contrasting with the rail thin female with them.
"That's all we need." Ron sulked. "What the bloody hell are the Dursley's doing here, they are Muggles."
"I have no idea, but I intend to find out, wait here for a moment would you." Mused Dumbledore. "Petunia, is that you?" He called, setting off towards the group.
The family and their escort turned to see who had called. "Ah Dumbledore, these Muggles were just being escorted out." The Wizard guiding them explained.
The largest male's eyes narrowed. "You are Dumbledore? Headmaster of that damn freak school?" He growled.
"I am headmaster of Hogwarts if that is what you mean Mr. Dursley" Albus replied cheerfully offering his hand in friendly greeting. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Petunia and I have corresponded of course, and this must be young Dudley." He continued, in a cheery manner.
Vernon scowled down at it. "You are the cause of all this, you bloody imbecile. What do you want from us now, we've just been charged with child abuse and theft thanks to you, in both your farce of a judiciary and the real courts. You, sir, will be hearing from my solicitor, I'll get every penny that taking in that waste of space freak you shoved on us cost us out of you."
"I am sorry you feel like that Mr. Dursley, I should have thought you would rather make the one responsible pay. Rather than innocent wizards who have been similarly unjustly treated, as a result of his actions." Dumbledore said, his eyes twinkling, as a plan to have these, idiot, Muggles do his dirty work for him formulated in his mind, well a back up plan at the least.
If it worked, Potter would soon be rushing to him for help, which he would give of course, at a price.
Dursley scowled. "Rediculous! The boy hasn't a brass farthing, what would be the point of suing him."
"On the contrary." Dumbledore smiled, baiting the trap that could get them all off the hook, whilst also surreptitiously casting detection charms on the three of them. "He has just inherited a vast fortune, it is likely he is now one of the richest people in the country."
Vernon's eyes lit up, Dumbledore knew the bait had been taken, hook line and sinker, even before the abdominous Muggle spoke.
"What?" Vernon exploded as Dumbledore smirked beneath his beard, the man facing him turned purple and continued to roar. "The freak has money, he's free loaded on us all these years, we took him in and provided for him out of the kindness of our hearts. We received precious little for his requirements from you lot, hardly enough to cover Dudley's, er I mean his expenses, and now you say he has money? How dare he not give it to us for all we have done for him, that ungrateful brat, when I get hold of him, I'll make him rue the day. Why should we continue to suffer because of him, we deserve more than that for what we have put up with from the runt."
"My thoughts precisely Mr. Dursley, I shall be in touch in the next day or so, I expect." Dumbledore smiled, then with a small bow to them, he turned to rejoin Molly and Ron with a renewed spring in his step.
The Wizard escorting the Dursley's quickly led them to the telephone box lift and out of the Ministry, before heading even more swiftly to report what had happened to Amelia.
"What was that all about?" Ron demanded as soon as the Dursleys were out of earshot.
"Ron, don't be rude." Molly snapped.
"Not to worry Molly." Dumbledore pacified. "He has been through a lot, as have we all, I believe this once his abruptness can be excused. However, to answer your question Ronald, that was insurance. If the Dursley's begin proceedings to pursue Harry for his money, he will need assistance to get through the legal maze that will create. I shall of course be the only one he can turn to, thereby we shall regain control of him in the process."
"Oh!" Nodded Ron processing the information, then he uttered a louder "Oh!" as the penny dropped. "Then will we get our money again?"
Dumbledore rolled his eyes, this boy was so greedy and easy to manipulate, too easy really. "Indeed, but I also placed some charms on them to alert me if Potter happens to be close by them."
Molly smiled. "You really do think of every eventuality, Albus."
"I try to Molly, I try to." Albus replied.
As they walked across the atrium in conversation, heading towards the fireplaces they, were unaware of their surroundings and failed to notice two people watching for their approach. Suddenly Molly and Ron found their way blocked by two figures.
Dumbledore was, of course the first to recover and recognise who it was . "Ah Good evening Arthur, Percy, I am pleased to see you return to the fold my boy." Percy ignored the Headmaster who shrugged. "Fine then if you will excuse us, we have much to do. Molly, Ron, let us be off, don't worry Arthur I shan't keep them for to long."
The trio moved to walk round the pair, who simply stepped in front of their family members, but allowed the Headmaster to pass.
"Arthur, Percy, get out of the way." Molly ordered sharply. "We must go with Albus in order to rectify this awful problem, which Harry has placed us in."
"No!" Said Arthur firmly.
Dumbledore turned. "Arthur I'm sorry, but we don't have time for these games. It is imperative that Ron and Molly accompany me. It is for the greater good that we get this resolved, I am sure you understand."
Arthur didn't turn, but continued to face his wife. "With respect Dumbledore, this is none of your business, simply understand that neither my wife, nor my youngest son will be leaving here with you this evening."
Molly flushed with anger. "How dare you Arthur, after all that Albus has done for us, apologise this instant and let us get on with fixing this mess." She shouted.
"As head of the House of Weasley, I summon you, Ronald and Molly, to a family court to be held as soon as we are all gathered this evening. There you will both explain how and why you have brought our house into disrepute. You will accompany us now, or instantly be cast from your house in ignominy."
"What are you talking about Arthur." Molly said firmly. "You cannot do that."
"Actually mother he can and has, our family await us." Percy replied coldly.
"Why don't you keep ignoring us Percy." Ron sneered, his expression that of someone who had stepped in something unpleasant. "Just keep your pompous nose out of what doesn't concern you."
Percy ignored him and looked at his father who nodded. Percy grabbed Ron's arm firmly and in a blink of an eye, they were gone.
Molly's temper had reached its tipping point. "Bring them back this instant Arthur! We have not got time for this silliness, Ron is to accompany me with the Headmaster."
Dumbledore silenced her by raising a hand. "Arthur can't all this wait? My business with Ron and Molly is most urgent for the Order and for the greater good of Wizardkind."
"Are you attempting to interfere in my House, Dumbledore?" Arthur asked, his tone dangerous.
Realising what was being implied Dumbledore blanched. "No Arthur, I merely..."
"Then please mind your own business, this is an urgent family matter, last I looked you were not a part of my family, so you are not required." Arthur interrupted then turned back to Molly. "Are you going to fulfil your oath to my house and answer its call, or are you going to ruin your reputation completely Molly."
She was about to answer angrily, when Albus stopped her. "She will go with you, Arthur, I shall of course be one of the three witnesses prescribed for such a court."
Molly smiled at that, certain that would be a way the headmaster could put an end to whatever Arthur thought he was doing, she allowed her husband to take her arm. Activating the Portkey, Arthur looked Albus in the eye and spoke with finality. "Your services will not be required in any capacity in this matter, Headmaster."
They were gone before Albus could react. He stood still, in surprise, for a moment, suddenly alone, in the cavernous space, then his anger built. How dare Arthur defy him again? What was going on with the man? How could he go from being so loyal to this, so quickly? He had thought the man's recent behaviour towards him was simply a reaction to being in a home that was not his own, but he was wondering if it was more now. Still, he knew where they would be, he would attend this court as a witness whether Arthur liked it or not. He had to ensure it went his way and would see it end this mini rebellion by the head of the Weasley clan, then use him to regain control of the Order. He entered the nearest fireplace and tried to Floo to the kitchen in Grimmauld place, when that failed he Flooed instead to the Leaky Cauldron, from where he would Apparate to an alley next to the square the house was on. From there, he would march into the house and be in the room where they were gathered before the doors were sealed.
Molly was beyond furious as they landed in the drawing room of Grimmauld Place. "How dare you treat Albus like that Arthur, I don't understand what has got into you recently. Whatever this little problem is, I am certain it could have waited until we had finished. We were going with Albus to work on rescuing Harry and Ginny, now that is really important, not like this. In fact nothing should be more important to this family, than ensuring Dumbledore has our complete, unquestioning, support whenever he needs it."
"Your first loyalty is to house Weasley Molly, if you hadn't lost sight of that, then this would not be necessary. Now sit down next to Ron, and we can begin." He said this last as an order, Molly was so surprised, she sat.
Ron was already seated, moodily facing his family. Sirius, Mad Eye and Remus were sat to the side, from where they could observe everything that went on, in the room and outside in the case of Moody. Molly looked round the room, but any hope of support faded quickly when saw her sons and even her aunt Muriel looking stony faced back at her, the reality of the situation finally sank in, it silenced her for the moment.
"Sirius, we are all here, please seal the room." Arthur requested.
"Hold on, we aren't all here." Ron found his voice. "Ginny isn't here and what is Aunt Muriel doing here, she isn't a Weasley?"
"As the senior of the remaining Prewitt's, the rest of whom are, just distant relatives, Muriel asked to become part of the Weasley House before you were born Ron." Arthur patiently responded. "As for Ginny, well you know why she cannot and should not be present."
Molly bolstered and found some defiance. "I demand to have Dumbledore present, as my representative." She shouted.
"This is a family court, permitted under the law which states that the three witnesses will ensure a fair hearing and you must speak for yourself. You have no need of a representative, this is a matter within my House, to be dealt with in the best interests of this family and its members, nothing more or less." Arthur said firmly. "Now if that is all the interruptions dealt with, Sirius as you kindly allowed us the use of your property for this hearing, could you seal the room, the sooner we get this done the better for us all."
Molly was livid, as the room was sealed and wards raised, now no one could enter or interrupt the family court, until the room was reopened by the one who had sealed it, and she knew that Sirius would not do that until her husband instructed him to. Even if Dumbledore arrived now, he could do nothing to help either her or Ron, he would not even be able to get in. All she could hope for, was that the rest of her family was more reasonable in their faith in Dumbledore, than her Husband was. Perhaps then, he would realise his folly in not trusting Albus, and come to his senses, it was up to her to convince them.
"The room shall remain sealed until we are finished, Harry has power over the rest of the house until I return, or until Bella gets back from visiting her sister with Narcissa. The house protections will answer to him, and we shall not be disturbed in here by anything that happens out there." Sirius announced.
Alastor grinned. "Kingsley and Tonks are in the kitchen ready to help if needed, which they might be. Albus has just arrived."
"I'm almost sorry to be missing the fun." Remus grinned.
Molly smirked, hoping they had forgotten how powerful Albus was, and might be worried enough about what he would do when he got in here, to stop this charade. "I don't know what has got into you Arthur, but once Albus gets in here, he will make you see sense, especially after he has taken Harry away. It won't be long now, before he does and returns things to how they should be. End this pointless exercise now, you know it will achieve nothing."
"Molly enough!"
The shout stopped anyone else, including Arthur, from responding, Molly glared, wide-eyed, at the person that had spoken, shocked at who it had been. "Not you as well Aunt Muriel, tell me they have not twisted you from the path of light into their darkness. Can you not see the only hope we have, any of us has is to put all our faith, completely and entirely, with Dumbledore, or it will spell disaster for us all?"
Muriel rolled her eyes. "Arthur I don't know what this is all about yet, but already I think she needs to be thrown into St Mungo's long term ward for the delusional. Trust that posturing self-important buffoon who has no dress sense, never mind common sense? His own Brother won't even do that, not without question and nor will many others after the recent reports of what he has been up to. Molly you need to stop and think before you speak, the day I put an ounce of faith in that posturing flamboyant fop is the day we should give up any hope. He believes far too much of his own bluster and publicity, he's not half as clever as he thinks he is and never was. You would be surprised how many can see that and are quite relieved he has now lost the political power he had a week ago."
Molly, for the second time in a few minutes, was speechless, this time in the face of her own Aunts statement. She said nothing as she watched, Fred and George look at Muriel with a new-found admiration and shift their chairs to sit either side of the elderly lady as a proud guard of honour.
"Right, lets get on with dealing with the reason we are here." Arthur sighed and began to let them all know exactly why he had called them to gather.
Dumbledore arrived with a soft pop in the secluded alleyway adjacent to Grimmauld Place, he quickly walked towards number twelve. To his relief he could see it again. "Good!" He muttered to himself. "Now we shall get control back and set things back on course." He quickened his pace.
He stormed up the steps and flung open the door, which slammed against the wall sending out a cloud of dust and burst into the hallway, not bothering to close the door behind him. No one was in the hallway, smiling he walked briskly into the house, hair and beard flowing out behind him as the front door was shut by Dobby, who was glaring at the Headmaster.
"Ah Dumbledore, I wondered who it was barging in so rudely. You are very early for the Order's meeting, therefore I find myself at a loss to see any reasonable explanation for the inconsiderate manner in which you have burst into this house."
The voice stopped the old man in his tracks, at the bottom of the stairs, he turned to look up at the speaker, who was dressed in fine clothes, befitting a Lord, who was stood on a step just above the landing where the portrait was. Calming himself Dumbledore started slowly up the stairs, towards Harry, the portrait watching expectantly. "Well Harry, it seems that I have been neglecting my duty and you are in danger. I must take you to a place of safety, then rescue Miss. Weasley, her mother and Brother." He had not yet reached the fourth step.
"I really would not attempt that if I were you, Dumbledore." Harry coolly replied.
The headmaster stopped, mid step. "Yet I must Harry, for the greater good you realise, it has to be done." He began climbing again.
"Very well Albus, but don't say I didn't warn you." Harry replied and casually waved his hand activating a ward.
There was no need to show his own Magical strength to the headmaster just yet, not if it could be avoided. The man did not need to know the blocks had been removed, nor just how much power had been released as a result.
Dumbledore was shocked as he was suddenly flung backwards down the stairs, across the hall and through the open kitchen door, he flew down those stairs to land on the floor at the bottom. His anger rising again, how dare the little brat treat him like this. Picking himself up with an agility few would expect, he stormed back up the stairs to find Harry stood exactly where he had been before, nonchalantly inspecting his finger nails.
Noticing his return Harry coolly looked down at him. "Ah there you are Albus, I wondered where you had got to. You can see I am quite capable and am not in need of your assistance in this regard, no thanks to you. Two of the others you mentioned are precisely where they should be, away from your manipulations while their family consider how best to help them. As you well know there is no Miss Weasley, not in this house at least. Now if you are wise, I would suggest that you wait in either the Kitchen or go home until you are due here for the meeting, that I assume you are here for, to start. After all, that would be your only legitimate business here in this house, isn't it."
Albus fumed, but was outwardly calm. "Only I am in a position to determine your safety and I do not recall giving you leave to use my first name Harry. I am Professor Dumbledore to you, now enough of your games, this farce is over, it is time for you to come with me." Dumbledore tried to charge up the stairs, he got no further than the sixth step before Harry dismissively waved his hand again. Once again the old headmaster found himself flying backwards, onto the kitchen floor. He lay there a moment catching his breath before standing, ready to start up the stairs again when a voice from further in the room stopped him.
"Not leaving again, surely Dumbledore?"
Spinning round, he saw Tonks and Kingsley sat at the table with drinks in hand, watching him. "Ah good, I am in need of your assistance."
"Well you do seem to be falling down a lot Albus." Kingsley's deep calming voice observed. "Why not join us for a mug, let whatever it is you have been drinking wear off."
Albus bristled. "I have not been drinking, as you both know I was only released from the Ministry in the last half an hour. Harry, somehow, keeps throwing me down here."
Tonks and Kingsley gave each other knowing looks. "Really!" Tonks said incredulously.
"Yes, now come and help me get him to a safe house." Dumbledore ordered.
"Right, well lets see if we can get to the bottom of this, but let us go up first." Kingsley suggested.
Albus nodded has assent, and led by Kingsley, they made their way back to the ground floor, Albus bringing up the rear.
Looking up they found Harry still stood casually on the stairs above the first landing, he appeared to have just shared a joke with the portrait, when he noticed them.
Kingsley turned to Albus. "Harry is up there, what is the problem Albus." Turning back to Harry, he asked. "My Lord, have you come down to the ground floor since Dumbledore arrived?"
"No Kingsley, although Albus has been attempting to get up here while I am trying to have a chat with my Grandmother, despite his being warned not to." Came the reply.
"Ah I see, well there's your problem Albus, the Earl is currently in charge of this house, while the owner attends a meeting and Lady Black is attending to other matters. Perhaps you should have considered that, rather than trying to reach him." Kingsley said. "Now let's go sit down, my mug of Tea is getting cold."
"I've had enough of this." Dumbledore growled and charged up the stairs.
The two Aurors stepped aside to avoid the flying headmaster as once again with a flick of his hand Harry returned Dumbledore to the kitchen floor.
"Probably not a good idea to do that again Albus." A grinning Tonks called after him.
"Just get him." Dumbledore angrily shouted back up the narrow stairway.
Tonks sighed and shook her head, then turned to Harry. "My Lord, do you wish to go with Dumbledore and be under his protection."
"No, Auror Tonks, I do not. I have no reason to trust that Albus Dumbledore has my safety at heart, so I do not wish to go with him."
Dumbledore again emerged from the doorway to the cellar, this time breathing deeply. "Harry..."
"My name is The Earl Potter Black, or my Lord, Albus." Harry interrupted firmly. "My friends, such as Tonks and Kingsley may call me Harry, but as you wanted titles, you will use mine. Now I will go nowhere with you and so we are clear Ginny does not wish to go with you either. Molly and Ron are with their family, none of us require rescuing and Hermione, oh wait. You did not ask after her did you, headmaster."
"You cannot speak for Miss Weasley." Albus tried, his eyes widened as Ginny appeared as if on cue, and stood next to Harry.
"To whom are you referring Albus?" She asked.
"Why you Miss. Weasley."
Ginny looked stunning in a black trouser suit and white blouse, but her expression hardened as she responded with danger dripping in her voice. "There is no Miss Weasley, never was, but you know that already don't you."
"Come now Miss. Weasley, this game has gone far enough, your parents must be desperate, I know your mother is worried about the company you keep at present." Albus tried desperately.
Ginny's expression of fury would have scared anyone. "My parents never really knew me and thanks to you, neither they nor I will have the chance to even meet. I expect they were desperate to see me until their dying day, not that you cared. I know the truth Albus, I know who and what I am. You are aware of my title, I would appreciate you addressing me correctly in the future. As I understand it, you have spent today being questioned about some of your crimes, so I know you have been reminded of just who The Earl and I both are."
Dumbledore tried one more tactic. "If those crimes were so great, how then is it I am free? Your deceptions are being discovered, your game falling apart, you need me now, to prevent you getting into serious trouble for this assumption of titles."
They turned to Kingsley. "Is this true Auror Shacklebolt?" Harry asked.
Dumbledore looked at Kingsley, hoping the Auror would act for the greater good and corroborate his story. It was the swiftest way of regaining control of the teens, his best chance today and one of only a few he would probably get, before they returned to School in September.
"As an Auror I must tell the truth on such matters or become an accomplice to a crime." Kingsley said as Dumbledore visibly slumped. "Dumbledore, Molly, Ron along with the three Dursleys were released on bail pending hearings scheduled for September into the numerous crimes they are charged with, thus far, between them."
Ginny looked at the headmaster. "You will never learn will you, honesty is the best policy."
"Very well." Dumbledore sighed, knowing he had lost the day. "In that case, Aurors would you retrieve Molly and Ronald Weasley, who were taken from my presence against their wishes earlier today."
Tonks shook her head. "No can do Dumbles, we have no powers to interrupt a family court, as you are well aware. You may see them again at some point after it's conclusion, though of course that will depend on the outcome."
Completely defeated Albus sighed and turned to go down to the basement to wait for the meeting, but tripped on the hem of his robe, and fell down to land on the kitchen floor once again.
"Mind your step Albus." Tonks called after him.
Authors Notes:
As always my thanks to you all for reading, following and reviewing this story. I know it has been said by others, but it really is all very encouraging to me as a writer the response to this story has been fantastic so far. Anyway I hope you enjoyed this chapter, and I shall update again as soon the next chapter is ready for you.
Until next time.
Tgfoy