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 15
Reform and Order.
10th July. Day 13 continued.
Albus actions on his arrival and his failed attempt to first grab, then fool Harry into going with him, were the talk of the members of the Order as word spread among them when they arrived and told of his journeys to the basement. They also knew of his arrest and that of Molly and Ron Weasley, apparently for following Dumbledores instructions. All of them knew of the new arrangements for how the meeting would be held, they were each a little concerned that they weren't seen as kicking Albus whilst he was down, although they had been told he had been given a letter which he had not responded to. They were all concerned that they might be arrested as a result of his instructions, so their feelings towards him were mixed, after all the man had been part of their lives for as long as they could remember. Their former leader had not re-emerged from the Kitchen in the hour and a half since tripping down the stairs that final time, and had refused any assistance he had been offered since, though he at least appeared uninjured, except perhaps for his pride. As the attendees moved from the entrance hall to the kitchen to gather refreshments, they greeted him, asking after his health with genuine concern. Albus responded briefly to each, assuring them he was well, but said little else, clearly deep in thought.
Gathering in the lounge as usual, their numbers grew as the designated time drew near, yet no one settled down into the seating provided. Some important members were missing, not least Hagrid who was on a mission Albus had sent him on, but the Weasley's, Remus and Mad Eye were also absent and no one expected the meeting to begin without them. One minute before the meeting was due to start, Kingsley and Tonks entered the room and sat in the place where Albus sat. They were followed by Albus, who looked a little lost for somewhere to sit, puzzled that the seats were set around a table, with enough space for all, rather than in rows facing a top table as usual. The seconds ticked by until the clock in the hall chimed, telling all that the appointed hour had arrived, everyone held their breath, wondering how Albus was going to react. The reverberation from the final chime had not silenced, when they were called to order.
"Please all take a seat, the sooner we begin, the sooner we can get everything we need to get done, done and we can get home." Kingsley called.
Everyone settled quickly into chairs which were arranged around the perimeter of the table. Albus remained standing for a moment, until only one chair remained, coincidently right in front of him. He sat and prepared to open the meeting as usual, but before he could, Kingsley spoke again.
"Welcome to this meeting, before our formal business there are a couple of things to mention. Firstly, you will have noticed the absence of a few people, including all the Weasley's who are members. As many of them who can, shall join us when a family problem is resolved, which Alastor and Remus are helping them with. I know they hoped to be done by now, but it seems to be taking a while longer than expected. However, Arthur did ask us not to delay this meeting in this eventuality, he knows some of us have work in the morning so did not want us to delay on his account. Secondly following the decisions made at our meeting last night, I believe it is appropriate to offer a vote of thanks to Albus, for his past leadership of this group. I am pleased to report he has agreed to step down and take up the role we suggested. I know we all look forward to his help and advice in the new role as advisor, which he was asked to take up in the letter given to him last night. Thank you for your generosity in allowing the order to move forward, without losing the benefit of your undoubted experience, Albus, it is appreciated that you have put the needs of this group ahead of your own."
Kingsley led the round of applause, as Dumbledore tried to mask his surprise, reaching into his pocket he removed the parchment that had been slipped to him in the cell last night, and he had yet to read. He had guessed it might be from the Order, but had assumed that it had only contained routine matters and so disregarded it, until now. He opened it now, and read it. It had been an invitation to speak with Kingsley, Remus and Mad Eye that day, unless he simply accepted the proposals from the Order detailed in it. Now he knew why he had been urged to read it when it was passed to him. He had asked if it concerned Harry and when the reply had been negative, dismissed the first suggestion as unimportant, so had not read that in consideration of his incarceration, they had said a letter in response would secure an appointment. He had often used such a letter himself in the past, it was not unusual, he had only himself to blame for losing this particular thread of control. Despite acknowledging it was his own fault, he was still angry that his confidence that others would not act against him had led to another blow. He felt betrayed by the group he had revived, they were among the last he would expect to abandon his guidance, the last to abandon the path of light. He would need to work to have this reversed, a task he could well do without, but one he would need to accomplish to ensure the greater good was achieved.
The applause died down, and he became aware that all eyes were on him, he realised he was expected to speak. He would be magnanimous, even gracious, at least until he had a way to regain his position. "Thank you all for your kind appreciation, I look forward to continuing to serve the Order in the best position I can while, we work to save our society."
There was renewed applause and some murmuring as he retook his seat. Kingsley internally breathed a sigh of relief, but had noted the wording of Dumbledores statement and knew the crafty old man was not planning to go quietly. He saw that he was not the only one to notice and hoped that Alastor and Remus would arrive in the meeting soon, as he began the meeting proper. "Right, let's get on, beginning with any reports on the progress any of has made, I think." He announced.
An hour later the Weasley's emerged from the drawing room, Arthur, Bill and Charlie taking charge of Molly, while George, Fred and Muriel escorted Ron upstairs, where he was to ensure all his belongings were packed, he was going to spend the remainder of the summer at his Great Aunts. Sirius, Alastor and Remus emerged a moment later, they shook each others hands, then Sirius went upstairs while the other two glanced at each other before entering the lounge and the Order meeting.
Sirius entered the family sitting room where he found Bella and Narcissa waiting for him.
Sitting he sighed and took the drink Kreacher had just appeared with for him. "How did it go with Andromeda?" He asked.
"Not bad, it helped that when she was reinstated,,and met with you at the hospital the other day, the family magic removed a number of memory charms and modifications from both her and Ted." Narcissa replied.
Bella nodded. "It will take time, but the Black sisters will soon be back."
Sirius grinned." Merlin help us! Where are Harry and Ginny?" He asked.
"In their lounge with Draco and Hermione, oh and Neville popped round for a visit too, even after our lunch." Bella replied smiling. "Shall we ask them to join us?"
Sirius thought for a moment. "Has Hermione made her mind up yet?" He asked.
Narcissa shrugged. "We don't know, she may have done by now. I think she knows that what's been said is correct, she is just finding it hard believing that an authority figure can behave so badly."
Nodding, Sirius observed. "Remus mentioned that she normally has a questioning nature, but is too trusting of people placed in authority over her, has too much faith that if they were put in such a position, it must be for a good reason. It seems she cannot separate position, from the individual holder of it, Remus believes it will come in time though. This is difficult for her, but her choice over this could define her adult life for her, and she is perfectly capable of adjusting her beliefs based on experience. She'll make her mind up in the end, I just hope she doesn't take too long over it."
"So shall I fetch them then?" Narcissa asked.
Sirius nodded again. "Yes I think we better had, the Order are having this explained to them right now, though not really in much detail. Albus is there, we don't want them better informed than Harry."
Narcissa left to fetch the younger part of the family and their guests, Sirius looked at Bella. "Alastor tells me Harry had a bit of fun with Albus."
"So I understand from Kreacher, who was most impressed, Dobby was in hysterics of laughter too." Bella grinned. "He handled himself very well according to Kreacher and the note Tonks sent. She said that if we can get the memory from Harry, it would be entertaining to watch. We must start his training soon, Ginny too."
Sirius scowled. "The poor buggers when you and Cissy start properly on the society stuff, I got Mad eye to train them too by the way, just a couple of times a week, though with that as well they stand no chance."
"Well we have to balance the mischief you will teach them, somehow my love." Bella replied, laughing. "Besides, your mother has already started teaching them her idea of etiquette. Which is naturally a mixture of useful and mischievous."
Narcissa returned, followed by Harry, Ginny, Draco, Hermione and Neville. They took seats around Harry, Hermione near Neville. Sirius grinned at the sight, but didn't comment as he spoke. "I understand there was a little problem with Albus while I was assisting the Weasley's? From what I'm told, you handled it well Harry, at least Kreacher and Dobby were impressed."
Harry nodded. "Yes it took quite a few minutes for Dobby and your Mother to stop laughing, Kreacher was the happiest I have seen him."
"Good, well that seems to be far better than the Weasley situation." Sirius sighed, deciding it was best not to pursue his original line any further, his countenance saddening. "I'll start with Molly, she really is messed up I'm afraid, has been since her brothers were killed. Of course, it was not helped by the manipulations of our white bearded friend, who is not Father Christmas or Merlin. Seriously though, it seems she was still grieving when Dumbledore gave you to her, Ginny. It did help her to have you to look after, the daughter she could no longer have. On top of the deaths of the twins, she had been through a difficult labour with Ron, and was told she could have no more children, the day you were taken. She saw the chance to raise you as a kind of compensation for her losses, a mask to cover them, but beneath the surface she never released that grief. It ate away at her constantly, combined with the headmasters influence it convinced her he was infallible. She was able to forget you weren't really hers, on a conscious level. Though burying that, still ate away at her mental health, keeping constantly busy, steadily alienating her children as they grew, except Ron, was a symptom of her illness. She fought to keep control of her family, to try to hide her grief, avoid acknowledging it at all. The family have decided to get proper treatment for her at St Mungo's, Arthur, Bill and Charlie are getting her ready to be admitted there as we speak. She is going reluctantly, she was not given much choice. That said it was not done cruelly, and she eventually accepted that Albus is not the only one who she could turn to, which in itself is a step forward. "
Sirius watched their reactions, especially Hermione's, as he spoke. He noticed Harry and Neville occasionally glancing at her too. She looked simply thoughtful, so he decided to continue.
"When we came to Ron, it was soon very clear that your summary of him was quite correct, Ginny. He is, to put it simply, weak willed, jealous of others and easily led, particularly by his Mother. Albus and Molly have fed that gullibility, and encouraged it, especially his belief of entitlement and that he is hard done by, by all except those two. Both Ron and Molly admitted, even showed off about receiving payments from Dumbledore, Ron for keeping the secret and befriending you Harry, he was also promised prefect status from this year and the head boy post later. He is not ill, it is simply a matter of character, I say simply, but it is far from that in reality and it will be more difficult to help him than Molly in many ways. We questioned them both using Veritaserum, under it Ron also told us that you were to be given to him, Hermione, he believes it is what he is entitled to. Molly was to give him love potions to slip you, you have already had some compulsion spells applied by Dumbledore, so you would always want to make up with Ron when you fell out. I know this is a shock Hermione, but would you allow me to check you and remove any spells from you?" He asked.
Hermione looked at him for a moment, here eyes wide in shock, she nodded and stood. Sirius cast the detection charm and removed a number of spells from her.
Once done, Sirius smiled to the thoughtful girl. "Thank you, Hermione, with your permission we shall check your belongings similarly later."
Again Hermione just nodded, then sat again, all looking at her with concern, but keeping an eye on her, Sirius decided to continue with his report.
"Ron will not be allowed any freedom to do as he wishes for the remainder of this holiday, the twins and Muriel are with him now, packing, Muriel volunteered to take the boy to her house until he goes to Hogwarts, it is secure, the twins will help her and keep an eye on him once you are back at school. You will not have to share a dorm room with him back at the school Harry, or you Neville. I am sure the school will allow access to the Alliance rooms once you get there, they have a door from each common room for students who are members to access them. I am sure Minerva will be able to advise about them, she is in the Alliance after all, as are a few of the other teachers. Any way, back to Ron and his Aunt Muriel, I think she wants to help the twins test some of their inventions on him, while she attempts to bring him into line. She has hidden depths that one, she is actually the only Prewitt my Mum has a good word to say about, just one word mind. Ron is also required to remain civil to you all, you included Draco, so please do not goad him, you are all better than that. Once at School, outside classes he will be required to be with another member of the family, usually the twins, and never alone with any of you. He will be required to issue a formal apology to each of you. Neither he nor Molly are to have any contact with Dumbledore outside matters to do with school, in which case they are not to be alone with the Headmaster. The governors will be notified of this, and they will instruct the Headmaster and staff regarding that. Finally, Arthur has asked that an investigation into the attempted line theft of Weasley house be conducted, with any charges to be added to the ones already against Albus, he is filing a report with Amelia, a report that includes the plans made for you Hermione. I don't think anyone else in that room was anything, but sickened by that particular arrangement."
There was silence for a moment, all eyes were still on the stunned expression of disbelief on Hermione's face. It was clear it was not Sirius words she disbelieved when she gathered herself enough to, almost inaudibly ask. "It was Dumbledore who promised me to him wasn't it?"
Sirius nodded.
"The bastard." She hissed, then burst into tears.
Neville was the first to reach her, he pulled her into a hug, before sitting with her on his knee rubbing her back comfortingly whispering reassurances in her ear as she cried into his shoulder. Harry and Ginny stood behind them, wrapping there arms round the seated couple, offering their own support, Draco looked lost, he did not yet know the bushy haired girl well enough to know what comfort to offer, especially given their History until this summer. He felt quite helpless, a feeling he was not used to in relation to any of his peers.
It took several minutes for Hermione to calm down sufficiently to lift her head to speak again. "Sirius, by given to him it was intended that I became Ron's property wasn't it?"
Sirius nodded. "Yes Hermione, I'm afraid it was."
"To what end?" She feared the answer, but needed to hear it anyway.
Bella gently replied. "There is no easy way to say this, but it would be so that he could use you, use you for one thing only."
Hermione nodded, this was the confirmation and it made her sick to the stomach. "Sex!" She murmured.
"Essentially, yes!" Bella confirmed.
"What gives Dumbledore the right to do that?" She demanded angrily. "What makes him think he can do that to me, to anyone?"
Narcissa answered calmly. "Please do not take this as approval of his actions, but bluntly he is the headmaster. A number of years ago he caused a law to be passed, which on the face of it was to protect muggle born witches and wizards. It made whoever was head master at Hogwarts their Magical Guardian, if no other was appointed. This gives him certain rights over them, such as arranging who they end up with and their status, whether it be wife or simply property."
"That's appalling, we need to do something to stop it, we must. I won't end up a sex slave to that red-headed thug." She said angrily. "And why should muggle born Witches and Wizards be treated as if we cannot think for our selves by that manipulative, white haired, old..." Words failed her and she sighed in exasperation.
Harry grinned and nodded to Ginny, both returned to their seats, knowing that their friend had accepted that one of her core beliefs had been shattered, but was now ready to deal with it.
Sirius smiled as well. "I take it that, that means the brightest witch of her age has decided then. You will join Harry in this war?"
"What?" Hermione looked puzzled for a moment, then the penny dropped. "Oh yes, yes of course I will. I'd decided that last night really I suppose, even if I didn't realise it properly until earlier today, though I am not sure I could ever not have been truly. I just needed to confirm what I already knew by checking my notes, this just confirmed my choice was the right one. There is no way I could believe that my brother in all, but blood had gone dark, just independent at last, but what are we going to do about the Headmaster? He could force this issue, couldn't he? As my magical guardian, I mean."
Bella snorted. "Well that's a problem we can resolve easily, we shall simply transfer it to Sirius and I."
Hermione's face lit up. " You would do that ? Are you sure?"
"No!" Sirius said firmly, and held his hand up to stop the protest from Bella as Hermione's face fell. "I think Hermione has given us the obvious, and perhaps the best answer to this herself. At least until we can get this law revoked, it shouldn't be us who become her guardian, but her almost brother."
Hermione looked hopeful as Harry looked puzzled. "Me?"
Sirius laughed. "Why not? Think about it, the protection of houses Potter, Black and Ashmole, not to mention the other families you are head of between you, would be the strongest our world has ever seen. Far better protection than simply the Black Family protection alone, which Bella and I could offer."
Harry nodded and turned to Ginny. " What do you think Ginny?"
"I think it would be for the best, besides if she is under our guardianship, then there would be no problem with Neville being her companion." She grinned. "I'm sure both of them would be happy with that, after all she is still sat being cuddled on his knee."
Hermione leapt up, her face turning red, as was Neville's. Sirius laughed. "So do you agree to that, Hermione?" He asked.
"What to, the Guardianship transfer or sitting Neville?" Draco chuckled, testing if he could lightly tease her and get away with it.
"Well I meant the Guardianship." Bella smiled and waited for Hermione to nod eagerly before adding. "Good, now that is settled, you and Neville can get back to cuddling."
Hermione and Neville looked at each other, while everyone else howled with laughter.
11th July. Day 14.
Next morning, after an earlier than usual breakfast, Harry, Ginny and Hermione were the first visitors into the Ministry records office, when Herbert opened the door. He had sighed when he saw them, fearing another day of constant changes for the Potters. He was actually quite relieved when they told him what they wanted and it was a quite a mundane administrative matter they needed to perform. Thirty minutes later, the proper papers were completed and correctly notarized, Dumbledores guardianship of Hermione was over. They hoped that when he found out he would accept it more easily than he had regarding Harry. In fact Harry thought that it was doubtful the Headmaster would even notice, until he wanted to assert his authority at least.
Elsewhere in the Ministry Sirius, accompanied by Bella, had lodged a new bill in the name of the Houses of Black, Potter and Ashmole, with the Wizangamot office. It was a simple document, apart from the required headings, only a few lines long, that had gained support from Amelia and Amos Diggory as well as Houses Longbottom and Malfoy in the signatures. The legislation was intended to place guardianship of all Muggle born students in the hands of the department of the board of governors of Hogwarts, instead of just with the headmaster. It was a straight forward change to the law, uncomplicated and would be heard as a procedural matter at that day's session later in the day, suspending the headmaster's guardianship of any Muggle borns already at Hogwarts, or who were about to attend, immediately. Being so short, it was well within the limit that meant it would be given to the members as they arrived rather than sent out to all beforehand, this meant that it would be sent to those who did not arrive later as it would not be finalised in this first reading. The bill would be heard in full in a weeks time, thanks to the support from the heads of two large departments much red tape, but not the due scrutiny every bill should receive, had been bypassed.
Tasks at the Ministry completed, they met in the Atrium next to the fountain, then they all returned to Grimmauld Place, where the twins joined them for a morning of training, with Mad eye.
18th July. Day 21.
A week later the friends left their training session and made their way to their rooms and the showers, Mad eye had as usual driven them hard. They also trained themselves each day, they had a route round the area which they jogged every morning and Alastor had already noticed a change in their endurance and skills. It had been an interesting week, quiet in some ways, hectic in others. Hermione had introduced some Muggle fitness techniques to their training, Harry had bought some equipment and the group now exercised daily on those as well jogging. They had seen the other Weasleys, except Ron and Molly of course, but not many of the rest of the Order and Dumbledore had been notable by his absence. That was not as reassuring as it may have seemed, they were not naive enough to believe that it was a sign he had given up trying to regain control. Remus and Tonks came each evening of course, sometimes during the day as well to help with the training, not just physical. Three mornings and often the evenings during and after dinner, were devoted to etiquette, society and politics, thanks to Narcissa, Bella and sometimes Andromeda. They together with Sirius and Draco also helped Harry and Ginny understand the alliance. Lady Longbottom arrived several times to help with understanding how the Wizangamot and the government worked, Amelia provided the current state of the politics within it as well as an overview of who is who there. On the other mornings they had the physical training and battle skills with Mad Eye Moody, who ensured they all worked hard. They were all surprised that the twins took the morning sessions seriously, until Draco correctly guessed that they wanted to impress the girls when they got back to Hogwarts. As well as attending to the reports from Gringotts and meeting with Alliance families, they had also met with Amos Diggory and one of his staff and agreed how that department would help them. The Department of Mysteries would help with their spell knowledge and crafting, potions, warding as well as gathering and processing information. This was all in addition to the business training that Gringotts had offered as an ongoing process.
The Bill they had introduced had been discussed at the Wizangamot the day before, and had passed quite easily, though it was known that Dumbledore had tried to raise some opposition. The attempt had failed, and although there were questions about the necessity of the change, raised by some who wanted to be seen by him as trying the vote in favour of the change was very clear. Magical Guardianship of all Muggle born students now lay with the board of school governors, not the Headmaster any longer. With the passing of the Bill, all that had remained outstanding in that session as continuing business was the nominations and election of a chief warlock, to replace Dumbledore. As protocol dictated, the Minister was currently acting in that capacity, which although ensuring matters could be dealt with properly, it was hardly satisfactory that Fudge continued in those dual positions for long. Besides the obvious need for the posts to be held by different individuals, it was realised that Fudge's position as Minister was not secure.
Although Mad Eye had driven them hard that morning, they knew they needed the mix of physical training and fighting that he taught them. They knew they were probably the main target of both Voldemort and of Dumbledore, they could not decide which was worse, or the most urgent to be prepared for, because they both had a need to control the magical community of Britain. The afternoon exercising both their minds balanced the physical exertions of the morning for Harry and Ginny, then this evening they would be able to relax. Each of teens, except perhaps the twins who stayed tight-lipped when asked, had completed their homework assignments for school, there were no meetings with Alliance members scheduled, so the evening was for themselves to relax and recover, after the family Dinner.
While the family ate, the members of the Order gathered in the lounge, for their meeting with some nervousness. It was the first time Albus would be in the house since the Weasley family court, and no one had heard from him since he had left that night after the Order meeting had closed. They had all been told the outcome of that court, they had all seen the anger show in Albus face at the news, before he had schooled it once again and left without a word to anyone.
Remus, Arthur, Mad Eye and Kingsley planned that tonight would be the first meeting of a re organised Order of the Phoenix, a truly new start. While Arthur had needed to concentrate on family matters as a priority, so although he had helped where he could, it had been the other three who had spent the week talking with the members as well as with others. The three had met each day, to go over what the members had said and to work out where and how the organisation could be most effective in helping defend their society from the threat they were sure was coming. They would now lay out the plans, more like ideas, they had formulated to them all, some would like them others would not, they knew this, but they also knew the Order must refocus if it were to be true to its purpose. All of them, had come to the conclusion that the Order should encourage its members and others that its role should be that of enabling people to help themselves, help them to not just blindly rely on the authorities, but to be usefully proactive in their own defence. The three of them had recognised that there was a need to break the apathy of Wizard kind, which they had all fallen into, indeed they had all been guilty of simply allowing Albus to direct them. It had all been too easy, now they had to convince the others that this was the proper way forward for them, along with the help they had been offered by others.
"Good evening to all of you." Alastor greeted the gathered members of the order, silencing them and drawing their attention. "It has been quite a week, we three spent the first part speaking to each of you and unravelling what each of you were tasked with and working out how it all fitted together. Once we had that information we, along with Arthur, looked at if it was really a priority or best use of the skills those individuals bring. The result is that it is clear we need to look at what we are doing and at re training. We need to build working relationships with others working to the same aim as us. No longer can we work in isolation, and what seems clear is we need to look at how we can best empower those in our community, if we are to be useful. In fact reducing everyone's complete reliance on the authorities, encouraging self-help is a concept which appears to be essential to saving our community. We have, to that end, also approached two other groups who we must work with in the future, or what we do will be pointless. The department of Magical Law Enforcement and the Earl and his lady."
There was murmuring round the room, the trio did not interrupt it for a moment then Kingsley spoke. "We asked both one fundamental question, what was their view on the return of Voldemort. The official ministry view is changing in the light of the capture of Pettigrew, and Amelia had already ensured the department had begun its preparations, even before that. We are all well aware, of course, that the Wizangamot has already acted to weaken his forces, the new ward has been most effective, and has already been erected at a number of public buildings. Amelia and her department are also aware of our group, have been for some time, in fact they were aware that we were reforming even before our first meeting and have a detailed file on both us and the original Order. They are just as aware of, many of those in it."
His statement raised even more mutterings amongst the order members, there were even one our two exclamations of indignation, each of them worried at what the consequences might be for those the Ministry had identified.
Remus raised his hand, the room fell silent. "Look, this is only to be expected, it is after all that departments job to find these things out. They do not propose to do anything about it, unless we are obstructive to any of their duties, or break the law of course, besides it is not their reaction that should concern you all. What should really worry you is The Earl Harry Potter Black's response." He paused to let that sink in, then continued. "The Earl told me to inform the Order that the final defeat of the on who calls himself Voldemort is in hand. He then forcefully told me that the Order in its present form, should not interfere and the best it could do at the moment was to protect themselves, not look to doing anything more. He did suggest we might want to change our focus, to one of enabling people to protect themselves, or as a recruitment agency for the Auror corps, Amelia would certainly appreciate that."
Remus sat as the gathering digested this information.
"He doesn't want us, or need us does he?" One member asked.
Tonks replied. "Not as we are, or as we have been up to now, no. He told me that as we have been up to now, the best use we could be would be volunteering to push trolley's at St Mungo's."
"Cheeky beggar." Alastor chuckled. "He told me the same this afternoon, and he has a point. We have not been very effective thus far, and at present lacking the training to be more at present, even though we have individuals who are more than capable amongst our number. We need training as a group, just as he is doing in readiness for his role in all this, which is central."
"Which is where Amelia comes in." Kingsley added. "She was offered those of you who want it the chance to enter training with D.M.L.E. Officers at their facility."
The room erupted with noise, much to Dumbledores disappointment it was an outburst of enthusiasm for the idea. It was clear the Order was heading in a direction he could not countenance, led there by three men he had trusted, one was one of his oldest friends and another he felt owed him much. They all seemed to have lost sight of the greater good, and what was needed to ensure an easy path towards it. It was apparent they were falling into the same trap which Harry had, there was no way the boy could train for his destiny, only when he had allowed him to hear the Prophesy, would Potter know that he had to die to beat Tom, though.
After the members of the Order settled again, Remus spoke again. "You may have noted that the Earl also suggested that we perhaps help others to be able to stand up for them selves more effectively. He felt, and Amelia agrees, that this would help the Authorities who are spread so thinly that they cannot help all who call on them. So encouraging others to enable themselves to take at least some responsibility for their own protection would help protect us all."
There was silence in response, this time, as those present considered the idea for themselves, then slowly they began nodding and murmuring in agreement. From that point in the meeting, they discussed the tasks they were doing and which were necessary. Very quickly, guarding Harry and the department of mysteries corridor were dropped, they all acknowledged that both tasks were not necessary based on the information they had. Albus tried to dissuade them from dropping these tasks, trying to encourage them to at least keep watch on the corridor, but would not explain why he believed they should. There were a few other tasks that they would discontinue, in favour of tasks they deemed ought to be higher priority. Tasks which they agreed were needed to take the group forward, members volunteering to work where their strengths lay, be it Administrative, Defence, communication, recruitment or some other task. They unanimously agreed to work more closely with other groups of similar aims, including the Ministry, and Harry if they would agree. After a very productive meeting, they adjourned, and the members began to disperse happily into the night. More happily and optimistic, than any of them could remember doing after any of the meetings since the Order had reformed.
Albus hung on, he had, had no communication with the Weasley's for the past week, which had surprised him, he had expected a message requesting his assistance after the results of the Family court. He had been required to do some work for Hogwarts and was still trying to discover the source of a recent loss in his magical power he had noticed. Not to mention the disappearance of Fawkes, which made communication trickier at the very least. All this had meant that not only had he not tried to contact the family, but he did not have the opportunity to further his attempts to regain control of Harry, and without up to date information from Molly or Ron, he was unwilling to act precipitously.
He waited patiently in his seat, while Arthur spoke with Alastor, Remus and Kingsley about some matter or other, then followed him from the room when the man left. He was hoping that the Weasley Elders silence as he passed him, almost as if he were not there, was simply a sign that he did not wish to speak to him while the others were in hearing. Arthur headed purposefully out of the door and across the hall to the stairs, this suited Albus, who was hoping to be allowed up them with Arthur to visit or at least speak privately with him. Arthur reached the third step up before he acknowledged that Dumbledore was following him, he stopped, but did not turn. "Something I can do for you Albus?" He enquired tiredly, the Portrait of Mrs Black watching them, her curtains wide open, as they often were, now.
Stopping before he had reached the first step, Albus put on his most genial tone to reply. "I would speak with you Arthur, privately. May we go upstairs, so we may discuss the events of last week?"
Keeping his back to him, Arthur replied pointedly. "I don't think that would be a good idea, do you Professor?"
Taken aback at the curtness of the reply, Dumbledores expression hardened slightly. "Surely you do not wish to discuss private family business here, Arthur?"
Arthur turned to face the Headmaster, his anger rising. "I do not wish to discuss my family business with you at all, Dumbledore. You are, after all, not part of it so far as I am aware. As such, I fail to see how it is your concern at all, or how you should have anything to say regarding the business of my house. However, whatever you may have to say, may be said here."
"Arthur!" Dumbledore exclaimed, shocked at being spoken to in such a tone by a man he had believed was loyal to him, despite the events of the week before, which he put down to the man being upset at the arrests of two of his family. "Not you too, surely you can see that I have only ever acted for the greater good. To keep the Order on that path, rather than the reckless one it seems intent on taking now, it is vital that Molly be allowed to add her to voice and vote to the meetings, we must steer things back to how they should be."
Arthur gathered his thoughts so that when he spoke it would be measured. Avoiding Albus eyes to reinforce his defence against Legilimancy. "You are quite right Albus."
The headmaster breathed a sigh of relief before Arthur continued.
"Things are not as they should be, with either the Order or within my family, and haven't been for quite some time. However, I have recognised that your view of some greater good is the cause, not the cure. My wife shall remain where she can be helped to repair the damage you have caused her, she is where you can no longer reach her, so she can, at last, heal. You have manipulated, meddled and interfered in my family for the last time, you will not do so any longer. So to ensure you understood, no Albus you may not come upstairs, you may not have a private word with me and you may not influence or interfere in my family any further. You will, however, do what you should have done years ago if you had truly valued my family, you will allow my son, and especially my Wife, the peace to recover from the damage which you have done to them. I suggest you also let the Order do as its members desire and actually become useful, rather than your private vigilante group. I bid you good night."
Arthur turned on his heal and continued up the stairs. Albus made to follow, to force the issue further, but an invisible barrier prevented him progressing further than the first few steps. He watched as Arthur reached the first landing and disappeared from sight, he had no choice, but to leave. He turned and headed out of the front door, wondering how many loyal allies he had left.
19th July. Day 22.
Next morning, respecting Bella's rule, it was after breakfast had been finished and the remnants had been cleared away, that Arthur relayed the story to the others.
Sirius nodded. "So it would appear his week in the self-imposed wilderness, has not seen him regret his actions, rather he still seems to be trying to regroup and regain control. I guess he is running out of other avenues to turn to in order to get to Harry, leaving him isolated and more cornered than ever, which could make him more dangerous as he grows more desperate. Your family seem to have been the bait, to enable him to catch an unloved Harry."
"Well it worked, for a while at least." Harry observed thoughtfully. "Not that I'm ungrateful to those of you who weren't in on it." He added quickly, worried he'd upset Arthur.
Arthur smiled. "Don't worry about it Harry, I understand what you meant and I agree, though some of us took to you for who we found you to be as a person."
Harry nodded his thanks. "I always liked the Burrow, first magical house I ever saw, a special place."
"Well we did benefit from improved protection on it, in order for you to come to visit. Dumbledore saw to it personally, oh hell." Arthur's face fell as a thought occurred to him. "I think I had better get Bill, I have a feeling there may be more than I know about along with the wards on our house, hidden within them. I had better get him to check them, and get them changed if need be." He left the room hurriedly.
"I know the family wards protect the family against anything he may have added, but I shall get ours checked today as well, just in case." Sirius said.
Harry looked on thoughtfully, then turned to his bushy haired friend. "Hermione, I hate to ask this but, is your parents place warded at all?"
"Yes, since first year. Dumbledore..." She answered brightly, her voice trailing off as a look of horror crept over her face.
"I bet he put loyalty charms in with them, amongst other things." Sirius observed. "Keeps you and your parents under his control."
"Should we move them?" Harry asked.
Hermione shook her head. "No, not yet at least. We have a family holiday booked from this weekend remember, it would not be worth moving them until after that if need be."
"Oh yes I remember, that means the charms should have time to wear off with luck. Are you going with them?" Harry asked.
Hermione nodded.
"What are you thinking Harry?" Draco asked.
Harry smiled. "Perhaps we should give the headmaster a surprise, for when he next goes to the Grangers. A new set of wards to protect them."
Hermione stared wide-eyed, "You would do that, despite my letting you down? You would still protect my family."
Harry shrugged. "You didn't get paid to be my friend like Ron did, that makes you my first Human friend that I can remember, Hermione."
Arthur returned just in time to hear that, the relief on his face turned to shame. "I am truly sorry for what Molly and Ron have done Harry."
"I know Arthur." Harry replied reassuringly. "I also know it was your father in laws actions that lost your house's alliance with us, not you. It has to stand for the moment, but you have made great strides towards rejoining the fold. Have you got the wards at the Burrow sorted?"
"Bill is on with it now."
"Good, we may need his help with one or two more today." Harry replied, then explained what he meant.
An hour later, two pops in quick succession was the only indication of the arrival of Harry and Hermione in a secluded part of a Park she knew well and had shared a memory of in a Pensieve that Kreacher had brought for the purpose. It was a place she had visited often as a child, to read in peace out of the house. The Park was a place she had visited often to play in as well, though not as often as her parents had wanted. Even as a youngster she had preferred her books over feeding the ducks or playing on the swings, although she did enjoy those activities as well.
The pair spared no time to look round though, or for Hermione to share memories of this place with her friend, but walked swiftly out to the path and through a nearby, ornate, gate into the street beyond. Harry barely noticed the details of his surroundings, he was too busy watching for any potential threats, as Hermione guided him past the local shops and houses. They encountered no real threats, but a few people greeted Hermione cheerfully as they passed by, until they turned a corner and almost collided with a group of four girls headed in the opposite direction. The Girls reacted the instant they saw Hermione, and that she was with a boy their own age who they did not know. Rudely expressing surprise that she could catch a man at all, never mind one as hot as Harry, they instantly raised Harry's hackles at their treatment of his friend. They made lewd suggestions as to the reason he would want to be with her, one even offered to show Harry what a real woman could do for him. They all began to shout abuse, until Harry silenced them with a look of sheer power, and anger. They quelled under his gaze and slunk off, not quite clear why they were leaving. Harry and Hermione continued down the street, leaving the puzzled group behind them, while Harry controlled his emotions and resumed his vigilance as they walked.
"I take it they knew you at primary School." Harry enquired.
"Oh yes, they were the popular girls." Hermione said grimly. "We were all supposed to admire them, but they just craved attention. When I was here earlier in the summer I heard them described as the local bikes by some of the boys round here."
Harry looked puzzled.
Hermione sighed. "Oh Harry, come on, it means everyone's had a ride." She explained. "You know, they were bullies at school, and I was afraid of them then, now I just pity them. It sounds like the only way they could think of to stay popular was sex, it's sad really, not one of them seems to believe that they are worth any more. It really is a shame, that they have earned that kind of reputation already, but even worse it is apparently, well-deserved."
They arrived at her parents house a few minutes later, it was larger than the Dursley's, older too, but seemed to be just as well maintained. The front garden was mature, surrounded by a well clipped, low privet hedge, from the gate a path ran diagonally between two gravel covered areas planted with grasses, heathers and confers poking through the stones creating a stylish, low maintenance plot. Hermione walked up to the front door of the detached weathered brick house, put her key in the lock and opened the door. "Mum, Dad, it's only me. I've brought someone to see you." She called.
A smartly dressed woman rushed into the hall way and enveloped Hermione in a hug. "Hermione, we missed you." She declared happily.
Hermione returned the hug enthusiastically, as a tall man emerged from the same door the woman had, though at a more sedate pace, smiling broadly.
"Now then Princess." He said soberly.
The two women separated and Hermione looked at the man and replied. "Now then Dad." Just as soberly.
Harry wondered if there was a problem between the two, while they stood looking at each other for a moment.
Suddenly they broke into grins and in unison added. "How's your bum for Spots." Then laughing they ran to hug each other.
"Your granddad would be proud darling, he spent years trying to get you to say that." Her father grinned.
"Only to annoy grandma." She laughed.
Harry stood awkwardly watching the reunion until Mrs. Granger looked at him. "You're Harry aren't you?" She asked. "My goodness you have grown, we met you in Diagon Alley if you remember?"
"I do Mrs. Granger, it is good to see you again." He replied offering his hand.
"Oh never mind all that formal rubbish, you are a close friend of Hermiones from what she says. I don't think shaking hands is enough, I have always been a hugger, though not as solidly as Molly Weasley from what I can gather." She smiled and enveloped him in a hug, which after a moments' hesitation, he nervously returned.
When he was released Mr. Granger stood with his arm protectively on his daughters shoulder, looking stern. "Well Mr. Potter, you are the first boy my Hermione has brought home, so I feel I must ask what your intentions are towards my daughter?"
"Er, I, I, I, erm." Harry spluttered unsure how to answer.
Hermione hit her dad playfully as he burst into laughter. "Stop teasing him Dad, Harry and I are friends nothing more. Besides, he is married and happily so."
That caused her parents eyebrows to rise sharply. "I think you had best both come in." Mrs. Granger said. "I think that news requires a cup of tea and some of my mothers recipe Cherry cake."
"Oh I am glad you have that in." Hermione grinned. "I hoped you might."
A few minutes they were sat in a comfortable lounge with mugs of tea and a slice of a marvellous Cherry cake each, Harry could quite see why Hermione had been glad there was some. It was clear that his enthusiasm for it had further endeared him to her parents, especially her mother. Hermione began to tell the story of the last few weeks to her parents, Harry adding details where needed.
An hour later there was silence in the room while the adults digested what had been said, empty mugs and plates on the table between them. After a moment, Hermione's mum stood. "I'll just make some more tea." She said, gathering the pots then leaving the room.
Harry hung his head, fearing the worst, noticing this Hermione reassured him. "Don't worry Harry, she's just gone to think things over."
"Aye lad you have both given us much to think on." Mr. Granger agreed. "First off and just because it sounds familiar, you mentioned your Aunt and Uncle, he wouldn't be the Dursley of Grunnings would he?"
Harry nodded cautiously, worried that this might change Mr. Granger's view of him.
"I never did like that man, always dreaded dealing with him, he is not well liked in dentistry, but they make the best drills otherwise none of us would have anything to do with him. I can't imagine what growing up with that thug was like Harry, to come out of it as well-adjusted as you evidently are, is testimony to your strength young man." Mr. Granger observed.
Harry sighed. "I wouldn't worry about dealing with him much longer, I think his world will soon be changing, thanks to some discoveries I have made recently."
Mr. Granger raised his eyebrows, so Harry added. "Oh don't worry, he won't be physically hurt, and it has nothing to do with Magic, just an enforced change of circumstances, one way or another, that's all."
Mr. Granger laughed. "Now that is something I would like to see, in fact I believe Dentists nationwide would pay good money to see it. Now about this headmaster of yours, perhaps we should consider you changing schools, Hermione."
"I know why you say that Dad, and can understand it to, but I'd much rather not." Hermione replied, firmly, but not unkindly. "Especially not at the beginning of an exam year."
Her father nodded thoughtfully, so Hermione changed tack, to explain one of the reasons that Harry had come with her. "Anyway if you are agreeable, Harry has arranged for better protective wards to be placed here, so I can know you are both safe."
"I already detected some charms here which are intended to manipulate you all, sir. I have removed them, but without wanting to scare you I am no expert, there could be others, for Hermione's sake I just want you safe."
Mrs. Granger had come back as he spoke. "You will keep Hermione safe Harry?"
"As best I can."
"Us as well?"
Harry nodded. "Again I shall do the best I can."
"How and why?" She asked.
"The why is easy, Hermione was my first true friend, the first to accept me for who I am, not what I was, the first person to be my friend in my whole life. She is very much like a sister to me and has already become part of my household, which in itself offers her protection, in the Magical community, not to mention removed her Magical Guardianship from Dumbledore. I know I can't be there every minute, but she is already joining in with my training, so we will improve our own defensive techniques. You two mean the world to her, and although I do not know you very well, Hermione means the same to me, so your protection is important to me. As to how, well, we have prepared some wards to go within those that Dumbledore placed, we just need to have them activated once any other charms he may have placed have been detected and cancelled in order that their effects are removed. I already managed to do that with at least one, which was targeted to ensure you believe anything the Headmaster, or those who spoke for him, tell you, without question."
Mr. and Mrs. Granger glanced at each other, a silent conversation appeared to pass between them before the turned back to Harry and Hermione.
"If it gives Hermione peace of mind then, we shall do it." Mr. Granger said. "Thank you, Harry. I am glad to know my Princess has a brother like you. I have to say, lad, that if you really were my son, I couldn't be more proud of you, for your desire to ensure others safety."
Hermione ran across the room and hugged her parents, Harry spoke into his bracelet, a moment later Bill Weasley arrived at the back door. A nod from Mr. Granger told Harry to let him in and the curse breaker quickly checked the area and the Grangers themselves.
"You did well Harry, most of the control charms I taught you about have gone, there are one or two more though, which are a little trickier." He turned to the Granger's. "With your permission, Sir, Ma'am I shall remove them and their effects, you might want to sit down, you may feel momentarily disorientated."
Mr, And Mrs. Granger nodded their permission and sat, Bill cast several spells, then walked over to check on the two Muggles.
"Wow, that was odd." Mrs. Granger said shaking her head as if to clear it.
Mr. Granger grinned. "I haven't felt like that since my Stag night."
"Don't remind me." His wife chuckled.
Bill smiled and handed them a mild pepper up potion. "Drink this, it will help you recover more quickly."
They drank and were back to their normal selves, just in time, as at that moment the door bell rang and Mrs. Granger stood to answer it.
"Wait!" Bill said. "Harry check who it is, use the spell I taught you, our presence may have been detected by his wards."
Harry cast the spell wandlessly. "It's Dumbledore, I'll just cast a shield, so he can't cast spells on you, don't look him directly in the eye, that's how he can scan your mind. It should only be for a few minutes while we get the wards in place, once they are at full power and are up, you will have those protections all the time. This is just a stop gap until they are erected."
"Why not just ignore him until then?" Mr. Granger asked.
"He would probably come in, in any case." Hermione answered. "This way it's on our terms."
Mr. Granger nodded and Harry cast the shields. "We'll go outside and sort out the wards while you see what he wants. Hermione with us as well, he thinks you are still at Sirius house. Don't worry we shan't be far away, just in the garden. Act as if you know nothing, act concerned at what he tells you, but not overly so. You will know when the wards go up and you can drop the act safely. "
The Granger's nodded and Harry, Hermione and Bill went out into the back Garden, while Mrs. Granger answered the door.
"Professor Dumbledore? What a surprise, we weren't expecting you." Mrs. Granger smiled with a geniality she did not feel. "To what do we owe the pleasure?"
"Good day to you, Mrs. Granger, I do apologise, but I must speak with you and your husband on some worrying matters concerning Hermione and her friends." Albus twinkled.
"Indeed, well you had better come in." Mrs. Granger offered stepping out of the way.
Dumbledore nodded and entered the house, Mrs. Granger closed the door then led him to the lounge, where Mr. Granger had cleared the mugs and plates into the kitchen, he was sitting waiting for them, a book resting open on the arm of his chair as if he had just been reading it.
After exchanging pleasantries, Dumbledore began weaving his tale of how their daughter was in danger because her friend Harry had strayed from the path of light. He tried to convince them that she would only be safe under his protection, he would of course need to keep her away from Harry, but it was all for the greater good that they should agree to allow him to do so and have the power to guide her. At first the Granger's had seemed to accept what he was saying, he decided to press on and was espousing his desire to only act for the greater good when Mr. Granger interrupted.
"I am sorry, Professor, but you keep saying the greater good, it is the type of vague thing a politician might say. I wonder if you could explain what it is that you mean by it, the greater good for who?" He asked apparently innocently.
"I was wondering about that." Mrs. Granger added. "And who decides something is for the greater good anyway?"
Dumbledore sat aghast, they should be just accepting his word, not questioning it like this. His charms that he had set should be ensuring they believed every word he said, something was wrong. He began to draw his wand slowly and opened his mouth to speak, when suddenly he was no longer in the Granger's home. In fact, he had no idea where he was, or why he was not in his safe, secure office at Hogwarts. Instead, he appeared to be in the middle of a field, staring straight into a cows' backside, just as the large monochrome bovine broke wind. Once he could once again breath and unable to recall the reason he was away from the school, he stood and Apparated back to the Castle, before the beast emitted anything worse.
Harry and Hermione re entered the room, moments after the headmaster had vanished, Mr. Granger smiled at them. "I take it old and beardy's disappearance was down to the new wards."
"Oh yes!" Harry replied grinning. "He won't even remember wanting to see you, or where you live now."
Bill came in. "All done and anchored now." He announced. "By the way, did you know a Ley line runs right under your lawn, we have powered the wards from it, they will only fade if they are disconnected."
"Thank you, Bill." Hermione smiled. "You too, Harry, for making my family safe." She hugged them both.
Bill nodded. "I'll be off now, another satisfied lady is all I ask." He winked, Hermiones parents shook his hand and thanked him, then he walked back out of the door into the garden.
"It's no problem Hermione." Harry said, returning her hug, before he shook her fathers hand warmly.. "Now all of you, go and enjoy your holiday, I want to hear all about it when you get back."
"We shall Harry." Mrs Granger hugged him. "You keep safe as well, and thank you so much, I am glad Hermione has a friend like you."
Leaving the reunited family, he turned and followed Bill out of the house, meeting the curse breaker at the edge of the wards. They nodded to each other, then both crossed the boundary before swiftly Apparating away before they were noticed, by any passers-by. Bill had still to check the Grimmauld place wards, and improve them as necessary.
Authors notes:
I hope you enjoyed this chapter. I know it's repetative, but I am going to say it again, many thanks to you all I really do appreciate your support and feedback. I write what I would enjoy and post it in the hope that others will as well, it really is good to see many of you like what I write too. Anyway, until next time.
Tgfoy
Edit. I posted this chapter this morning, I add this note a few hours later on my tablet from my hospital bed. I am sorry to say I have suffered a heart attack, my second in twelve months, so my apologies, but I will be slow in responding to reviews and will be unable to work on the next chapter until I am back at home where the files are. I shall be back as soon as I can. Tgfoy.