A/N: Buckle up. It's going to be a bumpy ride...
Hermione felt remarkably calm even as Kingsley Shacklebolt swiftly departed.
It was a logical move on his part and she didn't blame the stately wizard one bit. While others at the table appeared to be gazing at Minerva with a mix of fear and suspicion, Hermione found herself bizarrely reassured. If anyone was going to be taking over leadership of the Order, she found that she trusted Minerva implicitly.
Though their bond, Hermione was able to discern that Master Kallas' emotions were equally subdued. She hadn't missed the subtle introduction that Minerva had made on their shared behalf. It seemed that while Master Kallas had agreed to answer the summons, the final verdict on their impending participation was still out and while Hermione felt a distant coil of concern that she would have to soon choose between her studies and her community in Great Britain, she had pushed it away - resolving to remain as objective as possible on her master's behalf.
Hermione's attention was brought back to the present as Minerva shifted, her fingers steepling on the table before them as she moved to speak.
"As many or most of you are aware, Filius Flitwick and I have recently returned from an emergency convocation of the International Confederation of Wizards," Minerva began. "We were called together to respond to the five violations of the International Statute of Secrecy - the collapse of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the vandalization of the statue of Christ the Redeemer in Río de Janeiro, the collapse of the cathedral domes at St. Basil's in St. Petersburg, the partial collapse of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and finally, the explosion that destroyed the central concert hall at the Sydney Opera House in Australia."
The table remained silent as the communal energy grew somber, though everyone's eyes were still fixed upon the witch in emerald green, waiting for her to continue.
"At the moment, the ICW's final assessment of the five violations of the ISOS is ongoing. Emergency procedures were quickly enacted and continue to unfold, and for the moment we are confident that the Wizarding community is safe. The majority of our meeting was devoted to organizing relief measures for the affected cities and working with the individual countries in question to assess the level of visibility and damage," Minerva paused and drew a breath. Hermione imagined that she was perhaps steadying herself.
"At this time, however, I have no reason to believe that the ICW will be successful in identifying the perpetrators at large. From the scale of the events, preliminary reports suggest between twenty to thirty wands were involved in several of the attacks - it remains unknown as to their underlying agenda, however my own estimates would increase those numbers to forty or fifty wands."
There were a few murmurs at that, and Hermione felt a dim flash of amusement as she and Master Kallas immediately reached forward to quickly jot down their notes.
Forty or fifty wands seems rather well-organized, she thought worriedly.
Minerva continued.
"These figures in themselves are chilling. At the very least, it indicates the obvious threat of well-organized violent intention. Violations of this magnitude do not bode well in terms of logistics. Several of the affected sites possessed incredibly complex warding which would have required highly-skilled wands at the ready… the Sagrada Familia alone should have required nearly fifty wands to destabilize and yet - three spires managed to fall, also resulting in the death of the lead Wizarding Architect, Theodotus Ambrozaitys," Minerva explained, her round contralto tones betraying the depth of her concern.
Emerald eyes seemed to cool slightly and Minerva lifted her chin.
"At the moment, events seem to preclude any direct correlation to Great Britain. However, my own intelligence suggests that a new global threat is amassing and it is only a matter of time before we are drawn into conflict again, this time one that may have lasting international consequences," Minerva paused and Hermione watched as her eyes flashed around the table. The witch leaned forward slightly and despite her relatively slender frame, Hermione noted how those closest to her unconsciously moved back - making room for the commanding presence before them.
"I do not intend my words to be inflammatory. At this moment I admit that I do not have all of the concrete answers that you may seek. However, I firmly believe that more information is needed in order to make an appropriate threat assessment and it would be prudent to develop defense strategies that can be enacted now."
The silence in the room was deafening as the weight of the witch's words continued to resound.
A moment later, Minerva relaxed slightly and sat forward, steepling her hands atop the table.
"Therefore, I will ask your continued patience as I call forward a few of our company to contribute their own observations to the discussion," she finished in clipped tones. Her elegant hands moved a few papers in the folder before her.
A pause. "Gawain?"
Hermione recognized the name as being that of Gawain Robards, the former Head of the Auror Office and present Head of the Auror Academy. Toward the middle of the table, the rather handsome wizard next to Ron rose smoothly and gave a gruff nod.
"Many of you know that the other Aurors and I have been working hard to clean up the mess left by Lord Voldemort and the Death Eaters," he began. "While a number of them were sent to Azkaban for their crimes, we've also been forced to release several unsavory folks back into the general population under heavy surveillance due to insufficient evidence for their crimes. Additionally, there were a number that fled the country and while we've done our best to keep track of them, our wands and resources were severely depleted during the War."
There were a number of solemn nods and Hermione felt her own thoughts turn to Mad-Eye, Tonks, and a host of other good people who had fallen in battle.
"Many of you recall the name of Antonin Dolohov as having been a major player in Voldemort's upper circle during both Wars," Gawain said, drawing her out of her memories.
She felt a spike of fear and anger run through her at the mention of the wizard's name and a moment later, Master Kallas' warm hand was resting on her knee beneath the table. Smoothing her expression carefully, Hermione grasped it.
"Unfortunately, in the midst of the chaos we discovered that Dolohov fled the Final Battle and escaped to Bucharest where our Aurors were unable to pick up his trail. We put out a BOLO for him throughout the surrounding European Auror offices, but there weren't any hits. Two weeks ago, out of nowhere, his wand signature was recorded in Istanbul at an elite gentleman's club. It seems Dolohov has manage to adopt a new wand, and that same wand was cross-referenced and recorded as having been involved in the collapse of St. Basil's Cathedral in St. Petersburg," Gawain said smoothly.
There were a number of murmurs at that, and at the far end of the table, Professors Vector and Flitwick seemed to be writing furiously.
Istanbul… that is so close to Greece, Hermione thought fearfully. Beneath the table, Master Kallas squeezed her hand again in reassurance. A pleasant sensation suddenly flooded through her and a moment later, she found herself releasing a breath that she hadn't realized she had been holding. Releasing the witch's hand, Hermione sat forward again. Focus.
"Narcissa?" Minerva looked to her right and the platinum-haired witch nodded and stood.
"As you may imagine, I have slightly… different resources," the witch began, lifting her chin in an aristocratic manner that instantly brought Draco to mind. The witch's eyes raked across the table carefully and for a moment, Hermione felt her heart go out to the woman. On the opposite side of the table, she saw Molly Weasley's lips thin even as Arthur patted his wife's forearm, and farther down the table, Fleur and Percy were exchanging a few mutters.
"I have it on good authority that Dolohov has joined a new organization. The same people of whom Minerva speaks, though as of yet they have no clear location nor visible agenda. Dolohov has a large network of friends spreading through Macedonia, Bulgaria, and Turkey. I have understood through my sources that he has created a new home base in Varna, near the Black Sea coast. It seems that recently, he has amassed a small fortune in selling rather rare items from Central America, a rather… curious coincidence." The witch cast a cool glance toward Minerva who nodded, and then she sat slowly.
Though the last sentence was confusing, Hermione was immediately incensed as a number of side-conversations started up, including Gawain and her two friends. The boys' mentor seemed dubious.
"Thank you, Narcissa," Hermione found herself saying clearly, feeling the looks of surprise. She hadn't forgotten the woman's kindness. Clear blue eyes zeroed in on her quickly, softening slightly even as the witch responded with a small nod.
"Narcissa's intelligence brings me to another piece of the puzzle," Minerva said swiftly, cutting through the side chatter. The conversations faded and everyone's focus turned toward the head of the table.
"I was recently notified that I may have a personal connection to the events at hand." The witch paused and Hermione thought she saw a flutter of guilt pass across Minerva's features before it was abruptly buried.
"Petrus D'Artagnan was my apprentice, nearly thirty years ago. He was a brilliant wizard… headstrong, intuitive, incredibly talented. However our agreement did not work and I was forced to dismiss him," Minerva said slowly. Beside her, Hermione felt Master Kallas tense, even as Molly Weasley gasped in surprise.
To be dismissed from a Mastery was… incredibly rare. Though Hermione understood that it was common for Mastery contracts to be mutually dissolved at the agreement of both parties, abject dismissal was an indication of extreme impropriety. Once dismissed, a person was rarely allowed back into their Society as it was a clear indication of a lack of moral conduct. Distantly, Hermione wondered what a person would have to do to cross Minerva McGonagall...
"It has come to my attention that D'Artagnan's wand was recently tracked very similarly to Dolohov. He was last seen in Guatemala close to where a noted American witch and archaeologist, Elizabeth Waterhouse has gone missing," Minerva explained. She gestured toward her folder and everyone pulled out a map of the country in question where two glowing points indicated the wand signature and the missing witch. The correlation seemed rather clear.
Hermione felt a strong thrum at recognizing the name from the article she had pulled. I knew it…
Next to her, Master Kallas shifted slightly at feeling her realization and immediately Hermione felt a wave of chagrin. You should have said something…
A moment later she was forced to suspend her thoughts as Minerva continued, her expression solemn.
"I do not believe it to be a coincidence that both D'Artagnan and Dolohov have found business on the other side of the Atlantic. Moreover, I suspect that the five ISOS violations were a diversion… a grand spectacle, if you will, to divert global attention away from their true goals," Minerva paused and sighed. "Unfortunately, as of yet, I do not know what those goals may entail, however I suspect that there are clues to be found in Central America."
Silence fell over the table and Hermione found slightly herself overwhelmed by the information at hand.
Rather than attempt to unravel the mystery that had been presented, she found herself observing the faces around the table.
A number were pensive. Harry and Ron appeared to be having a silent conversation with meaningful looks. Fleur looked rather ill, murmuring softly with Bill and Percy, while George listened quietly. Toward the end of the table, Sturgis Podmore appeared to be somewhat agitated - his large fingers drumming on the table rather anxiously.
"At this time, I must ask for your thoughts," Minerva said softly, her gaze clear and bright… though something in her energy told Hermione that the witch was incredibly tired.
There was a moment of silence as everyone looked around, wondering who would break the silence first.
"Have there been any more indications at the local level to suggest impending unrest?" The question came from the Healer to her right. Renata, her mind quickly supplied.
"Perhaps, I can answer that," Gawain replied as he leaned forward. "At the moment, I cannot divulge the particulars… however there have been three unexplained disappearances within our community in the last two weeks. While there is nothing yet to indicate any sort of tie to the events we are discussing, I have to admit that the timing is indeed suspect."
Renata nodded and Hermione watched with narrowed eyes as Harry and Ron exchanged a look. There's more to that than Gawain just said.
Briefly her own sense of irritation flashed at the boys' behavior. They need to learn to be more discreet.
"I can confirm Gawain's concern." Arthur Weasley sat forward, his typically jovial features rather drawn. Quickly Hermione recalled that the Weasley patriarch had been relocated to a smaller office within the Department of Magical Law Enforcement.
"The disappearances are concerning, though at the moment there has been nothing to indicate foul-play. Let us hope they amount to careless planning. However, after listening to the conversation at hand I think it prudent to mention that there has been a significant increase in the number of anomalous instances of Muggle Obliviations in the past several months. Our department has been working to understand the increase, however they have all been rather small violations in the grand scheme of things and they have been too spread out to indicate anything serious."
Hermione felt a surge of anger at Mr. Weasley's wording, though she knew rationally he hadn't meant anything by it. Wizards were far too quick to dismiss crimes against Muggles.
'Small violations'? There is nothing small about violating someone's mind without permission.
"However, I feel it prudent to mention that the majority of violations have occurred rather close to Wizarding communities spread across Britain, many of which host a Ministry presence. In terms of our present conversation, it could indicate a subtle play for information gathering."
Mr. Weasley seemed troubled by his own words and he exchanged a dark glance with the wizard sitting immediately to Hermione's right who seemed to be another Auror.
Minerva's eyes had immediately narrowed and she along with a number of others at the table including Gawain, Master Kallas, and Hermione herself, quickly bent forward to jot down their notes.
"If I may? Eet is not a local issue… but I worry zat it will soon become a European problem," Fleur spoke up and sat forward slightly, her beautiful expression marred by a deep frown.
"Az you all know… my family iz still in France. Our Ministry iz not so organized, if you will. Like ze Ministry 'ere during ze War, zere are a number of challenges we are dealing with. When I spoke with my Maman zis week she told me zat zere iz a new issue. Our community iz most upset with ze ICW… ze Pureblood Houses in Parlement wish to… 'ow you say? Faire sécession?"
"Secede," Hermione and Master Kallas said together. Fleur nodded.
"Ah, oui. Ze French wish to secede from ze ICW. Zey theenk zat ze ICW does not provide eenough protection and zere is much anger over ze politics of ze Sagrada Familia. Zey wish to close ze borders and remain self-governing. Zis would furzer zeir agenda toward Pureblood… suprématie," she finished, causing an immediate spike in side conversations.
"What would be the result of that?" Hestia Jones asked incredulously, turning to look down the table. "If France were to secede from the ICW?"
Everyone looked to Minerva who nodded toward Professor Flitwick who sat directly opposite of her down at the other end. The smaller wizard looked pensive, one hand stroking his chin absently.
"Well… I can imagine it would cause a great deal of international pressure," he mused slowly. "Though, France would have no leverage to actually secede unless they could convince other countries to agree. The ICW would institute immediate lock-down procedures and forcibly impose martial law on the French Parliament if they felt it threatened the ISOS."
"Do you imagine other countries could be made to agree?" Dedalus Diggle spoke up, his high-pitched voice rather shrill.
Professor Flitwick made to reply, but surprisingly it was Ron who held up a hand for recognition. The small wizard seemed surprised but he gave a wave of his hand that indicated her friend should go ahead.
"I may have just figured out a potential goal of the international perpetrators," Ron said grimly, leaning forward and resting his elbows on the table. Beside him, Gawain Robards had a pensive expression, but he sat back to listen with a deferential confidence that suggested he trusted whatever Ron was about to share. Interesting dynamic, there.
"Look. As a strategy, it's quite simple. Five countries were violated to prove a point - that this group, whoever they are, are stronger than the individual governments they managed to attack. They chose prominent cultural landmarks as their targets and managed to plant a seed of doubt in the public perception," Ron began, brows furrowed in concentration.
"At first, everyone puts the blame on their country, right? Everyone's up in arms, calling out different things - The MACUSA didn't step up in San Fran! Spanish Parliament couldn't protect the Sagrada Familia! The Australian Bureau lost us the Opera House! So it goes, right? Meanwhile, who steps in to help out? The ICW."
Ron's focus was somewhere in the middle of the table as he spoke, and though his eyes were unfocused, Hermione suddenly had the impression that her friend was looking down upon a large chess game in his mind. She felt a swell of pride.
"At first, everything is great. The ICW swoops in and looks like heroes for protecting the ISOS. Everything goes back to normal, but the seed is still there, right? Each of those affected countries now has a problem because the public has an underlying belief that their ministries can't protect them. So what then?" Ron looked up and glanced around the now-silent table.
"Strategically, it's time for the group to put out another wave. Destabilize other world powers in a similar manner, but maybe make it a bit more personal. Rather than physical locations, maybe they attack a little deeper. A public gathering of some sort, I dunno. And then it happens again. And again. More countries need to turn to the ICW to cover up the disturbances and more members of the public start to doubt their own governments."
Hermione felt a chill run through the air and a number of people were beginning to shift uncomfortably. At her side, Master Kallas remained perfectly still, her beautiful features schooled into a mask of serenity.
"Then, all it takes is a little nudge."
Ron scooted forward, his robes ruffling slightly as his gaze again dissolved toward into a nebulous thinking space.
"People begin by attacking their own governments. Elections are called for and it's time to put in the right players… The group slides their people into positions of power and sets the stage for an even bigger change. Because once all of these individual countries and governments are headed by people from their own party, they can all arrive to the same conclusion. And then we get at what the French Purebloods want right now - a destabilization of the ICW. And if the ICW is forced to step down due to international pressure… perhaps the ultimate goal is to have someone else waiting at the ready to step up."
The table fell silent as Ron finished, his blue eyes coming up quickly even as he looked around, taking in everyone's surprise and horror. Everyone, including Hermione herself, seemed to be frozen in shock. Merlin and Morgana…
"Minerva?" Andromeda Tonks spoke up in question, turning to the head of the table.
A moment later, everyone's focus followed and Hermione saw her former mentor staring at Ron with narrowed eyes.
"Mr. Weasley's assessment is… grandiose," she began dryly, eliciting a few chuckles. However, a moment later, Minerva sat forward and fixed Ron with an intense gaze. "But his argument is sound."
The side chatter rose to a higher level even as Hermione felt herself deflate. To her left, Master Kallas was writing a few notes in Greek, the cursive too complicated for her to read. Across the table, Molly and Arthur Weasley were in conversation with Andromeda while Narcissa listened in distantly.
Everyone seemed to be conflicted. It couldn't be true, could it?
A moment later, her master set down her quill, turning to gaze into her eyes with a soft, but resolute expression.
"Peace, darling. There are many variables that remain unknown. Your friend's is but one eventuality," Master Kallas murmured quietly, her hand running across Hermione's thigh again reassuringly.
"But you do acknowledge it's a possibility," she whispered in reply. Seafoam eyes seemed impossibly large and something passed through them that Hermione couldn't read. Their faces were quite close.
Tiredly, Hermione sat back to find Minerva watching the two of them quietly. The green gaze quickly flicked away.
Before her master could reply, there was a sharp crack as Minerva flicked her wand impatiently. Rose lips were pressed into a thin line as she gestured toward the other end of the room.
"There are many ways the cards could be dealt," Professor Vector's voice cut through the conversation and the black-haired witch moved forward slightly, waiting for the noise to die down.
"Filius and I have been running calculations over here and the figures show the strongest probabilities that speak to an international web of events close to what Mr. Weasley has just described," Professor Vector spoke solemnly, her words falling across the table like a heavy blanket.
A moment later the witch held up a finger even as she gazed down toward her scratch parchment that was alight with glowing symbols and runes that Hermione couldn't read from a distance.
"That is not to say events will unfold exactly as predicted, but it does seem clear that the layers of international coefficients suggest that one of the underlying goals of the acting perpetrators is the destabilization of government upon multiple levels."
There were a few murmured conversations as everyone processed those grim calculations. Arithmancy was a difficult art and one that Hermione had once loved dearly. While she didn't have the effort to map the current situation, she trusted her former professor's expertise and the additional insight they had provided.
A glance to her left saw Master Kallas exchanging a meaningful look with Professor Vector. There was a history between the two witches that Hermione didn't understand, though it was clear that her former professor was Greek by birth and the two witches had likely known each other for quite some time. Focus on the task at hand! There's time for questions later!
"What about what we said before? That the violations were just a distraction from something else?" Though they were separated by a number of people, Hermione recognized Ginny's clear voice and a moment later, the conversations paused as a number of heads swiveled to see who would answer the question.
"Those who search for absolute power must have foolproof means of enacting their authority once challenged," Master Kallas replied calmly, turning to look down the table toward her friend.
"Grindelwald sought the Elder Wand. Voldemort created Horcruxes and sought all three of the Deathly Hallows. If I were to hazard a guess, I would say there is a simultaneous search underway for Dark resources that may help enforce absolute power once it is seized," her master said clearly. Hermione caught a glimpse of Ginny's expression which, unsurprisingly, appeared to be anger. She bit back a sigh. You have work to do there, that's for sure.
Harry and Gawain sat back slightly, drawing close together as they spoke quickly. At the other end of the table Professor Sprout was nodding with narrowed eyes. Abruptly, her master's words shook something loose and Hermione found herself leaning forward.
"I may have something to add on that note," Hermione spoke up suddenly with her realization, even as she looked to her master for permission. Behind the confident seafoam gaze, she saw a small question, but the witch gave her a small nod.
Looking forward again, Hermione saw a number of curious stares.
"The night of the ISOS violations, there was a simultaneous break-in at the Library of Alexandria," she began. At the other end of the table she saw the Hogwarts professors break out in furious scratching again, while to her right, Minerva sat forward intently.
"There was short article in the French newspaper that appeared to indicate that there was a brief disturbance in the warding in a small branch of the Library devoted to documentation of Ancient Artifacts. Perhaps someone was looking for materials that could help them do as you say," she said, turning toward her master.
"That could connect to Guatemala. The country was host to the Maya civilization for which there has long been evidence to support ancient Wizarding activity. The Library holds one of the largest collection of Mayan artifacts in their subterranean vaults," Master Kallas responded, her eyes narrowing as she thought out loud.
"Indeed." They turned together to see that Minerva's brow was deeply furrowed.
"It seems logical to me. Voldemort went about his research a similar way - 'cept he turned to European lore to get at the Elder Wand," Harry said.
Her master's musical gave voice to her thoughts.
"Why develop new materials, when what better resource -"
"- than the great civilizations of the past," Hermione finished, looking back at Master Kallas solemnly.
At the head of the table, Minerva sat forward and steepled her hands again in a gesture that was quickly becoming familiar. Everyone at the table shifted their attention again, having remained silent through Hermione's short exchange with Master Kallas. Most everyone boasted the same concerned expression.
"Well… it seems we have exercised more of our creative abilities tonight than I had initially anticipated. Thank you, those of you who have contributed to the discussion," Minerva paused to take a breath, her gaze sliding down toward the center of the table and Hermione had the distinct impression that the witch was somewhat fearful of whatever she was about to say next.
"It seems we have combed through several possibilities regarding both international and local events. I wish I could offer more than simple points of conjecture, however at this time I must move our meeting forward and proceed by asking you all to take two actions."
Hermione felt herself straighten as the emerald gaze swept around the table, the witch's elegant features a mask of stoicism.
"The first is a vote. Whether you elect to join the Order or not, I trust in each and every one of you to use your best judgment to discern whether or not there has been enough evidence presented tonight to rationalize the reinstatement of the third incarnation of the Order of the Phoenix."
Minerva looked around the room carefully.
"Would anyone like to add anything further?" she asked.
Heads swiveled from side to side, but no one spoke up. Unexpectedly, Hermione felt a wave of anxiety crash over her.
"Very well. At this time, would you please raise your wand if you believe that enough sufficient evidence has been presented tonight to warrant the Order's reinstatement."
Biting back a wave of nausea, Hermione lifted her wand. A moment later she looked around, taking note of the faces around her - a combination of resignation, concern, and resolve...
Every single wand was lifted.
"Thank you." Minerva appeared to visibly relax at the vote of confidence and she sniffed lightly.
"Now, I take no pleasure in this, but as we are all in agreement, I must ask you all to swear an Oath of Secrecy," she paused, her eyes flashing quickly before continuing.
"Let me be clear that this is not an official binding contract of your participation, merely an effort to keep our discussion tonight under wraps. At this time, I defer to my trust in each of you. The penalty for breaking the Oath is simply the knowledge that I will be notified of your transgression immediately and that you will have to deal with me."
Gawain guffawed loudly and there were a few chuckles, including a light sniff from her own master. Hermione found herself smiling lightly.
"Are there any objections?"
A chorus of emphatic "no's" reached her ears, and Minerva nodded. Though her expression remained impenetrable, Hermione had the distinct impression that the green gaze was rather pleased.
A moment later everyone stood together and extended their wand.
Minerva began chanting in a low voice - the musical language sounded like Gaelic to her ears, and Hermione felt a bolt of energy leave her body, running down the length of her arm like a livewire, and out the tip of her wand. A stream of golden light left her wand, joining with everyone else's as it rose toward the ceiling in a spiraling oval of energy, the blinding reflection glinting off high windows.
At the head of the table, Minerva's wrists flicked gracefully, like the gentle ministrations of a dancer or artist. She watched spellbound as the glow of active magic lit the witch's face, making her seem angelic or otherworldly for a brief moment…
And then abruptly it was finished and Hermione felt a sharp disconnect as her wand dropped a few inches in response. It was like detaching from a strong magnetic pull.
Both she and Master Kallas immediately holstered their wands, sitting in unison in a way that Hermione found both amusing and a bit unnerving. She hadn't realized how very different her own actions were until she felt the eyes of her friends weighing upon her.
"Now then, as the hour draws late, I believe a few courses of action are recommended," Minerva said, one hand lifting to adjust her spectacles in a familiar manner.
Everyone appeared to be somewhat rejuvenated from the magic of the Oath, but at the mention of the hour, Hermione realized that with the time difference, it was quickly becoming late. She realized just how bone-weary she felt.
"At this time, I believe our company requires further intelligence. There is evidence to suggest that whomever the amassing forces are, their Dark agenda is spread upon two levels. The first, a large-scale destabilization of international governing agencies, meaning it would be most prudent for the Order to secure assurances in our own Ministry's ability to ward off potential infiltrators and attacks. The second, a potential a sub-plot to unearth ancient methods of enacting absolute power," Minerva summarized, green eyes reading quickly through her notes.
"I recommend that we focus our intelligence in three places. Petrus D'Artagnan, Antonin Dolohov, and the break-in in Alexandria," Gawain Robards stated calmly, leaning back in a way that seemed almost casual… though his dark blue eyes narrowed in a manner that Hermione knew belied a quick mind.
"Those of us at the Ministry can put out feelers to assess where our government stands in terms of preparedness for any potential attack, though at the moment I hold quite a high level of confidence following Kingsley's swath of inquiries."
Minerva nodded her agreement as Percy piped in with a rather pompous, "here here!"
"I am already on assignment investigating a number of purported Death Eaters. I can likely find a way to make Dolohov a... personal priority," Wickleffe Temple spoke up to Hermione's right, nodding to Minerva before raising his eyebrows toward Gawain who also nodded an affirmative.
"Good call, Wick. I can send you one of my international contacts as back-up… wouldn't want you getting caught up in red tape once you leave our borders," Gawain added good-naturedly.
"I can also ask around in my own circles. I've got a good partnership going with a bloke in Romania who might know more about the intel Mistress Black has brought forth. I'll see if I can dig up any other information on Dolohov's new business arrangements," George Weasley said, his eyebrows waggling suggestively. Across the table Ron sniffed lightly and shook his head.
"Very good. Dolohov's name is the closest connection we have to discovering the identity of this new group. However, I know I don't need to instruct you to proceed with caution. At this point, anything you can learn that can tell us more about the people we are dealing with will be crucial toward unraveling their agenda," Minerva said swiftly, her solemn stare traveling between the men in question.
They nodded their assent, including Gawain, Ron, and Harry; Hermione didn't miss the deferential way in which her friends responded the older wizard's words and actions. It seems I am not the only one with a master...
"A number of us at Hogwarts can see to lifting information about the break-in at the Library in Alexandria," Hestia Jones put forth, her eyes flicking between her companions at the other end of the table. Professor Sprout was nodding.
Minerva shifted slightly before giving a nod of acquiescence.
"Very well, however I do not need to remind you that your investigation should not interfere with your duties at Hogwarts," she replied sternly. Professor Flitwick echoed her words with a nod.
"'Course not, Minerva!" Hestia chirped quickly. To her left, her silver-haired wizard companion leaned forward and fixed Minerva with a conspiratorial look.
"You're just saying that because we have a curriculum meeting next week and you don't want to hear any excuses if we don't submit our reports on time!"
The ebony-haired witch lifted an elegant eyebrow in reply.
"That's exactly right," she deadpanned, drawing a number of chuckles from around the room.
"I've got a frien' in Cairo that might be able ter rustle up summore information too. Good wizard. Works for the Egyp'ian Department o'... err… somethin' ter do wit' ancient monuments an' stuff," Hagrid said, bumping Harry slightly as he rocked forward in his chair. "I'll give 'im a call an' see if he's got anythin' helpful."
"Thank you, Hagrid," Minerva replied with a half-smile.
Hermione felt buoyed by the responses of everyone at the table. A plan of action seemed to be coming together rather swiftly and it began to chip away at the anxiety that had sprung forth in her gut.
"I can see to gathering further intelligence in Central America," Renata Montvoisin said swiftly. "There is a Healer's conference in Mexico City the week after next. It would be simple for me to slip away and investigate the situation in Guatemala further."
Minerva opened her mouth to reply but was interrupted by a musical voice to Hermione's left.
"As can I. I am rather adept at blending in and I speak Spanish fluently. I may also recognize Petrus D'Artagnan's spellwork."
Hermione bit her tongue to keep from revealing her surprise as Master Kallas' offer fell smoothly upon the table to a number of surprised glances. It seemed her Master possessed her own agenda. The witch leaned forward slightly to peer around Hermione at the Healer to their right.
"Perhaps we can coordinate?" Master Kallas suggested, her expression open. Hermione was surprised when the other witch leaned back slightly, glancing at her master with thinly veiled distaste.
"While I appreciate the offer, I can certainly see to arrangements on my own. There is no need to call in the cavalry," Renata replied with just a tinge of sarcasm. Hermione felt a surge of anger. Keep your pride and ego out of it, witch!
"At the moment, we need more information," Minerva cut in briskly. "Two heads are better than one. I leave it to the two of you to make any arrangements as necessary. It is up to you whether or not you coordinate, however it is paramount that we do not tip our hand early. I want absolutely no contact with anyone who may be directly involved. There are too many variables at play. At the first sign of trouble, you are to leave immediately."
The two witches nodded their understanding even as Renata fluffed her robes slightly. Master Kallas picked up her quill and returned to writing quietly, the picture of perfect calm. Hermione quietly pressed a hand to her master's knee.
"Very well, it seems we have several plans of action," Minerva said in a satisfied tone, glancing down toward her notes. The atmosphere in the room seemed to be a bit brighter as everyone felt reassured by taking a measure of action.
"At present I see no need for further discussion, though any and all additional, or potentially relevant information is helpful. I encourage all of you to remain vigilant and attentive to the communities you inhabit and the world at large. Any intuitive leaps you may feel at this point could give us the working advantage. Do not hesitate to contact me should you feel you have something to contribute," Minerva said carefully, her voice calm. Emerald eyes swept across the table and Hermione felt herself nod in response to the earnest words.
"I will also ask that each of you consider the gravity of the Order's new charge. You have been asked here tonight because I value each and every opinion of those sitting here now, however I must know for certain, which of you are prepared to engage in the difficult and potentially dangerous work of the Order over the next several weeks and months."
Hermione felt her heart still, feeling a plummeting sensation in the pit of her stomach that infused her with fear. What do I choose?
"I would ask that you mark your calendars for another meeting on December 7th barring any further complications," Minerva said slowly. "I will contact you regarding further arrangements, however Portkeys will be sent in a similar manner to tonight's summons. At our next meeting, I will expect those who are joining to take the formal Oath swearing allegiance to the Order of the Phoenix. I remind you that it is a binding Oath and you will tie your wand to the communal decisions and needs of the Order. For simplicity's sake, we shall again convene here."
"Where are we, anyway?" Ron asked, his eyebrows lifting even as he gazed around the room with a bit of awe. The honest question seemed to undercut the seriousness of Minerva's request and there were a few chuckles. Surprisingly, Minerva's lips curled into a small smile.
"The Old Manse, as my mother once called it," she replied in low tones. "I thought it prudent to meet in a neutral location. Seeing as the wards of Grimmauld Place were disturbed in the aftermath of the war, it was the first place I could think to convene a meeting that would be both discreet and assuredly secure. My family home seemed to be the obvious option."
Ron nodded, clearly impressed, while Harry's brow furrowed even as he sat forward.
"Number 12 is undergoing pretty extensive renovations at the moment, but I'm hoping that by the first of the year that it will be up and running again and fully operational. I have assurance from some of the best resources that the Fidelius wards can be reinstated," Harry said confidently, his gaze sliding toward Gawain for a moment before her friend regarded Minerva with a peculiar expression that Hermione couldn't place.
"It would be an honor to host future meetings if that would meet with your approval, ma'am," Harry finished, softly.
Hermione felt her heart soften. Oh Harry…
"Thank you, Mr. Potter. That is a very generous offer," Minerva replied, her eyes warm.
There were a number of small smiles scattered across the room as others undoubtedly thought back to the many memories held at Number 12 Grimmauld Place. Despite the heavy backdrop of the war, the drafty old house had played host to a number of light hearted moments and entertaining events.
Harry had mentioned in his previous letters to her that he, Ginny, Ron, and Kreacher had been working on the house's renovations in their spare time. With surprise, Hermione realized that it was a project that she would very much like to see… and she found herself hoping that it would come to pass.
"Are there any questions?"
Hermione took a deep breath, briefly glancing at her Master who was sitting properly, her beautiful features relaxed into her trademark serene expression. I have questions... but none that can be answered here, she thought, wondering what her Master intended.
The table remained silent and Minerva nodded accordingly.
"Very well, then I hereby declare this meeting adjourned. Thank you all for coming. The Manse's wards will now permit you to Apparate to wherever you should require. If you would prefer the Floo, I would ask that you pass through The Burrow first, which Arthur and Molly Weasley have graciously permitted us to use as a transfer point allowing our location tonight to remain a secret," she said. A moment later, elegant hands quickly arranged her parchments and closed the folder in a gesture of finality.
Everyone quickly rose as Minerva swept to her feet. Voices arose in a number of overlapping murmurs - a combination of "good night's" and "thank-you's," as the tall witch met them with polite smiles and gracious nods. She flicked her wand and the door behind her opened, revealing another large room where a fire was burning in the hearth expectantly.
Hermione immediately glanced to her left to find Master Kallas watching Minerva with an opaque expression. She seemed rather subdued. The light gaze flicked back to her own face and the careful features softened.
Master Kallas lifted a delicate hand and cupped Hermione's cheek gently, her eyes melting into an expression of bemusement and kindness. At once, Hermione wanted nothing more than to return to the comfortable embrace of the Kefalas villa and sink into blissful oblivion.
"Come, darling. It is late," she said softly.
They shrank their folders and carefully tucked them into sapphire folds even as the ambient conversations continued to ebb and flow around them. Like all Order meetings, everyone was reluctant to leave and despite the overwhelming amount of information they had just absorbed, Hermione noted how most faces seemed to be rather energized and excited.
In contrast, Hermione felt thoroughly drained and it was reassuring to follow Master Kallas as she led them around the table and behind Minerva toward the other room where the fire beckoned invitingly.
The Floo?
Master Kallas hated the Network with a passion.
A strange break in the conversations behind them caught her attention and Hermione turned, suddenly realizing that her friends were watching her leave with rather surprised and bereft expressions. Only Ginny seemed upset, while Harry, Neville, and George appeared confused. Ron appeared to be watching her in regret; beneath the rather rakish beard he was sporting, she knew his lips were twisting in a familiar expression. As her gaze slid away, she felt a sharp pang in her chest. They don't understand... I have a different life now with different rules...
"Do you wish to say goodbye to them?" Master Kallas asked, leaning in subtly and placing her lips close to Hermione's neck. They were almost at the threshold to the doors behind Minerva, who was busy talking to Narcissa Black and Wickleffe Temple.
As her mentor's familiar scent washed over her, Hermione felt a different wave of resolve. You are Diamantina Kallas' Apprentice, for Merlin's sake!
Their business was concluded and it was time to leave.
Besides, it was hardly the time to engage in the apologies and conversations that required more time and explanation than she could give.
"No," she found herself replying, turning to face the poised woman who stood beside her, her body and features betraying no trace of the private conversation they were currently having. Master Kallas made it appear effortless.
"I am with you, Master."
The bright gaze flicked up to her again and Master Kallas nodded, turning swiftly to continue their departure into the adjoining room. As she followed, Hermione was pleased to feel a thrum of pleasure through their bond. Her master approved.
Rather than heading for the fireplace as expected, the witch drew them into a darker corner, out of direct sight from the drawing room. She placed her hands around Hermione's waist and drew them together so that they were nearly flush. Hermione found her arms circling the small frame automatically.
Eyes widening, she realized that the witch intended to Apparate them back to Greece. But that's over three thousand kilometers!
"Trust me," came the firm response.
Closing her eyes, Hermione leaned into the embrace... inhaling the calming scents of tea tree and eucalyptus even as the witch's dark curls tickled her nose. In a moment they would be home...
She felt her heart settle at the thought.
Had she been paying attention, Hermione would have noticed that the darkened room faded away not with a crack of displaced air, but a burst of bright white smoke.