Machiavellian Knot

by tgfoy

His manipulations were intended to ensure the greater good, but the best laid plans do not always go as might be expected. An alternate post Goblet of fire story.

24. What Was Lost

Chapter 24.

What was Lost.

Sunday 3rd September cont.

As torches on the walls burst into life, filling the area with flickering light, Minerva took in the dank place which Fawkes had brought the two curse breakers, one Goblin, and herself to. The light they gave did not reveal a comforting view. It was not a place she was familiar with, but recognised from the descriptions she had been given a couple of years before. She was horrified to see the still body of the Basilisk, laying at one end of the chamber, she knew the story behind it. Two of her students had told her their parts in it, but it was the sight of the monster that confirmed to her exactly where they were.

"Merlin, where the hell are we?" One of the curse breakers breathed.

Minerva gathered herself. "The Chamber of Secrets." She told them. "Harry and Ginny were the last Humans here, he saved her from that Monster."

The Goblin turned to her. "Does he know the beasts worth?"

"I doubt it." She replied without thinking, then realised what she had said. "We shall inform Griphook of this resource when we return to him, the remains belong to his client after all, thank you for pointing that out, very generous of you."

The Goblin scowled slightly, greed falling from his eyes, but curtly nodded his agreement.

The curse breakers quickly checked the chamber for any curses, they dealt with a couple near the statue of Slytherin. All of them then examined the remains of the snake. "It is just starting to decompose, another year, and it would be worthless, two and nothing but, skin, bones, and teeth remaining." One of them muttered. "It should be harvested before Christmas at the latest to get maximum benefit."

"Thank Merlin that Albus could not get in here, on his own. If he had, I doubt Harry would have seen a Knut." Minerva said plainly.

"He really has stuffed that lad hasn't he." The second Curse breaker observed.

Minerva nodded. "In more ways than one, Mr. Ramsey, much to my regret."

The two curse breakers looked at each other and nodded, they both took out their wands. "In which case, we shall ensure this is not taken from him."

They quickly cast preservation charms over the corpse, then spoke quickly with the Goblin, who nodded agreement at their suggestion and clicked his fingers. The Basilisk disappeared in a flash. "It is done." He said.

"Sorry, but what is Master Goblin?" Minerva asked.

"It has been sent, as a Potter asset, to our processing facility, where it will be held awaiting instruction via Griphook. He will ensure that the products from it are sold at a fair price." He replied.

Suddenly the chamber began to shake.

Filius led his group quickly from the Hospital Wing, up to the seventh floor and into the corridor on the left. The trio hurried along it until the Professor stopped then turned round near a tapestry, passed it, then turned again, when he did it a third time Thorgun growled. Bill glanced at the Goblin, who was laughing at the tapestry, he recognised it and understood the Goblins humour. He had always thought the event it depicted to be ridiculous, but then Barnabus the Barmy was not called that for nothing.

"Shall we go in?" Filius asked, his own face showing amusement, as he stood next to a door opposite the tapestry which had not been there before.

Bill had heard of the room, but never seen it, he chuckled again at the look of pride and amusement on the diminutive teachers face.

"This is the room?" Thorgun asked.

"Yes, though until we enter we shall not know if it has become the Room of Hidden Things, as I requested of it." Filius replied and opened the door.

They entered the room, looking round at the vast space filled with heaps of all manner of objects, from furniture piled up to the ceiling, to jewellery strewn into boxes and chests. There were piles of robes, stacks of toys, dozens of magical objects, it was a daunting prospect to have to search for one particular trinket. They wandered round, looking for anything obvious, there were many dubious things here, some quite dark while others were simply on Filches prohibited list, hidden by students, perhaps. They could not use the Accio spell to summon the Horcrux, they did not know what object the soul fragment inhabited amongst the plethora of objects in this room, only that it would be significant to Riddle.

"We cannot find it this way." Filius said. "Thorgun will the box find it in this lot."

Thorgun grinned. "It will, though if it is buried deep in one of these piles, we could start the equivalent of a landslide. The mound will fall and may bring others down with it, it would be better if we did not need to try."

Bill looked thoughtful. "The quicker we find this thing, the better for all concerned, we do not know what effects it is having on Harry, or Ginny for that matter. We do not have long and need to give them as much help as we can."

"Very well, let us see what we can find, expect it to fight us." The Goblin told them. "Do not set up shields until it is in the box, they would interfere with the summons, but keep a sharp look out, it will not avoid you if we are in the way."

"Then I suggest we go back to the door, keep our backs to it and the box in front of us." Filius suggested.

The other two nodded, and they made their way back to where they had entered the room.

Thorgun set the box they had brought with them on the ground, it was, perhaps, the oddest of Goblin made objects, at least to human eyes. It was, by all appearances, a simple wooden casket with a hinged lid, there was nothing ornate or decorative about it, a purely functional piece. However, the most notable difference from most objects from the race was that it was one of the few objects that was not wrought from metal, but simply made from aged Oak. The wood was easy to work when fresh cut, but once aged was harder than many stones. This box was solid, but plain in appearance and had been constructed hundreds of years before particularly for this purpose and no other. Once Filius and Bill were in position, with their backs firmly to the door, the Goblin opened the lid. They could see the interior was covered in carved runes, some standing alone, others overlapping and entwining, combining their attributes in a manner Wizard kind had often tried, but never succeeded in mastering. There were strong spells in those runes, once they were activated, the box was magical in a way beyond Wizards understanding. Thorgun ran his finger round the lip of the box, then stood and joined the other two by the door.

"It is activated, now we must just wait." He told them.

There was silence, at first. Nothing happened, for just long enough that those who did not know better might doubt that the box was working at all. Then, just as they were becoming certain that whatever was supposed to happen, definitely wouldn't, there was no change for just a little longer. The doubters of the ability of Goblins, those who believed them to be beneath themselves, would begin to think that perhaps Thorgun was so inept that he had failed to activate the runes at all. Then a moment later those same individuals might scoff that trusting that a Goblin made artefact was a mistake and was almost bound to be defective, as the silence and inactivity continued. It was only when any, but those who had taken the trouble to learn more about the Goblin Race, had given up any hope that anything might happen at all, that something did. Something in the room, screeched loudly. It was a spine-chilling, blood-curdling, unnatural scream, resounded through the room horrifically continuous. At the moment the scream began, the room began to shake.

"It has been found, but is resisting the inevitable." Thorgun calmly stated over the persistent scream, as if he were commenting on the weather.

The students in the castle were startled as the building began to shake, while not unheard of in Britain, Earthquakes that could be felt were extremely rare. Some cried out in surprise, a few screamed out, but none of them panicked or moved. Then a voice rang out, a reassuring voice, calm and somehow all who heard it knew it was to be trusted.

"Occupants of the castle, do not worry, remain where you are, and I shall protect you. If you are not already then please simply sit on the floor away from anything that might be dislodged, and you shall be safe, my wards are strengthened enough to ensure that." It said.

All, except one, were happy to simply look at those around them and moved to the floor. The one who wasn't reassured was up in the astronomy tower, she began to rush down the steps, reaching halfway before she realised her mistake, when she lost her footing and fell down the rest, rolling down each step, bouncing from the wall, emerging head first on the landing below, where Umbridge fainted.

The only indication, to those in the grounds, that anything untoward was going on was the sudden, noisy, cloud of birds that rose from the castle as one. All activity stopped as every eye looked towards the building and the same voice that had been heard inside the Castle had its own message for those outside.

"Those in my grounds, be assured you are safe, and I am protecting those within my walls. Do not enter the castle until it is indicated you may, simply continue to enjoy my lands, there is no danger."

The headmaster was having a nap in his bed when he was woken by the tremor, hearing the reassuring voice he simply closed his eyes and returned to sleep. When he woke again later, he had completely forgotten the incident as he rose to return to his desk, and he remained oblivious to the events that had transpired that day.

In the room of hidden things the Professor, Goblin and Curse Breaker watched, unable to influence what was happening. The box had latched onto the Horcrux and all they could do was wait, and wait they did for what seemed an eternity, but was in fact only a minute or so. It was Bill who first saw it, a shining tiara like object, slowly, reluctantly floating towards them.

"Is that it?" He asked, pointing as the object rotated, and an oval emerald set into it came into view.

Thorgun nodded. "It is indeed Mr. Weasley and if my eyes do not deceive me, the Horcrux is embedded in a long-lost Diadem."

"The Lost Diadem of Ravenclaw." Filius gasped.

"It is indeed, though no longer lost it would appear." Thorgun observed.

They watched as the Diadem continued its path towards the box, it increasingly slowed as it drew close, as if fighting away from it, but the power of the runes continued to drag it inexorably towards it. The closer it got, the more it seemed to fight, even stopping progress for a moment just two feet short of being above the box, but never managing to pull away. Eventually it was hovering above the box, vibrating its resistance, no longer rotating, the stone facing the three watching.

"Wit beyond measure is man's greatest treasure." Filius murmured. "The inscription, Ravenclaw's words, I never dreamed I would ever see it, but always hoped I might."

Thorgun nodded. "It is magnificent, that it be tainted by that half blood upstart is disgusting, an insult to those who made it."

The goblin produced a crystal jar, which he held ready, he crouched ready to pounce as the diadem began to descend towards the open box. None of them dared look away as it descended closer to it, still vibrating and screaming without pause in protest. An inch from the top of the box it suddenly fell to land in the casket and Thorgun sprang into action, dropping the jar into the box he slammed the lid shut and sealed it, silencing the screaming instantly. Now the box was vibrating as the diadem had, but only for a moment. The jar, filled with a dark fog, appeared on top of a suddenly still box, and the room stopped shaking. The crystal vessel was engraved with information, the goblin picked it, and the box up as objects began to disappear from the room. Bill noticed that the items that were vanishing appeared to be the dark ones.

"Our task is done, let us return to Griphook." Thorgun stated.

Bill and Filius nodded, they opened the door and made their way back to the hospital wing.

In the core of Hogwarts, they felt the resistance they had been fighting suddenly stop at the same time that the castle stopped shaking, and their task became far easier. They rebuilt the remaining damaged wards, feeling brief pushes against them, which quickly disappeared and the protections the founders had placed were restored and repowered. Tired, but successful, they completed the job in a few minutes, then Harry directed them out, back through the door to the grounds, those able promising to check round the school to ensure everyone was alright. Those to exhausted, simply walked out of the door and found a place to lay in the sun with their friends, until they had recovered enough to continue their day. It was not long before Harry and Ginny were the only ones left, in the cavern. They looked round the cave, it seemed brighter as the lights bounced freely around the room, all of them bright white. The couple stepped through to the doorway and the cave closed, nodding they both made their way up the steps to the Hospital wing.

They arrived at the same time as Bill, Professor Flitwick and Thorgun.

"It is done!" Harry and Thorgun announced together.

"Good!" Replied Griphook. "Thorgun place the container on the table, I shall despatch it to be dealt with as the others were."

Thorgun did as asked and the Crystal Jar disappeared with its contents at a wave of Griphook's hand.

"That done, we now await Minerva and that teams return." The Goblin said.

Poppy sprang into action. "While we do, you two are having a check-up, now." She commanded.

"Fine!" Said Ginny. "There are a lot of our team exhausted laying on the grass outside the door too."

Poppy nodded and having efficiently checked them both, she handed them each a replenishing potion. "Right I shall go help them quickly, before it is noticed by anyone." She said then bustled off, returning quarter of an hour later.

"All sorted and everyone fine, they just need to take it easy for the rest of the day." She announced.

It was almost an hour before Minerva and her team returned, the Curse breakers carrying a bag each. "These are the objects we have neutralised." One of them said, holding up the bag.

The other held up his bag. "As expected there were some that will need more work, and will be dealt with back at Gringotts."

The Goblin, then told them what had been done with the Basilisk, Griphook acknowledged them and turned to Harry and Ginny. "We shall harvest it on your behalf if you wish, ensuring the venom is distributed reputably. It is Goblin tradition that protective clothing be made for the slayer of the beast, from some of its skin, if you wish."

Harry nodded. "Would it be in order for a set to be made for Ginny as well?"

"Of course, I shall arrange it." Griphook responded. "Now I believe our task is done, we shall return to Gringotts."

"Thank you for your help Griphook and to your team." Harry called as the team left, escorted by Filius and Pomona to ensure no one tried to obstruct them as they left.

As the last of them left, Bathsheda entered, levitating Umbridge ahead of her. "I found her at the bottom of the steps to the Astronomy tower. Evidently she did not follow the instruction to simply sit on the floor and tried to descend the stairs while the castle was shaking and lost her footing."

Poppy trotted over to one of the beds. "Place her on this bed if you would, I shall sort her out quickly."

"Good!" Replied Minerva sternly. "I shall be requiring words with her regarding the Blood Quills that were sent to us from her office."

"I think the rest of us should not be here for that." Said Ginny. "If we may go Madam Pomfrey?"

Poppy nodded. "By all means, but please try to rest, allow your selves to recharge for the week ahead, though you are both far from exhausted somehow."

Ginny nodded and they both left, leaving only school staff in the hospital wing.

It was after they had eaten in the Great Hall, smiling at the chatter amongst the students about what they had seen that afternoon, that they made their way down to Hagrids Hut. The couple had decided not to push too much for Hagrid to chose sides, they knew it would not help to try to make him pick them or Dumbledore. The Half Giant owed his living to Dumbledore, and they could not blame him for being loyal to the Headmaster, besides their friend was quite capable of making his own mind up.

Reaching the hut they knocked on the door and heard fang bark in response, and heavy footsteps start heading towards them inside and a gruff. "Ge' back Fang!" Sound, before the door opened.

At the same time that Harry and Ginny were walking over the grounds of the Castle, Percy was walking over the yard to the Burrow. He had arrived a moment before, at the apparition point and was making his way to see his father. Since the day of the family court, he had often taken the trouble to visit with his father, either at work, or at St Mungos when they had visited his mother. She was very quiet when they visited, apparently due to sedative potions calm her, but she was yet to show signs of recovering herself. The healers had detected a number of long term problems as a result of several memory charms, enforced loyalty through charms and potions as well as mental health problems brought on by them. She was seriously ill, and they were still making new diagnosis and researching treatments.

Although he had seen his father elsewhere, this was the first time he had returned to his childhood home for quite some time. His father was not expecting him, but he needed to ask his advice. The Minister was asking him to do something he was not comfortable with, and as a newly promoted ministerial Junior assistant he was unsure what to do. Not just that, but this was a post that had caused his separation from his family. He was glad to have reconciled, at least with one parent, and he knew that had he not done so, he would have not known who to turn to for help, he hoped he was still able to ask it. Unsure if he could just walk in as he used to when he had lived here, he knocked on the door, then tentatively pushed it open.

"Percy!" His Dad called cheerfully, surprised to see this son at the door. "What are you doing knocking, come in lad, good to see you. Have you eaten? I am just about to get something for myself."

Relieved, Percy walked in as his Dad spoke. "No Dad I haven't yet, in fact I have come straight here from the office."

"Right then, you set the table, I shall get the food, Steak, and Kidney pudding with roast potatoes and cabbage okay for you, Muriel sent her Elf over with it a few minutes ago. She is worried I can't cook for myself so sends a meal over every evening for me and whoever is with me. Unless I am at headquarters of course, anyway, there's always plenty, sometimes I have the leftovers for lunch the next day now the twins are at Hogwarts and don't finish it off themselves." Arthur said jovially. " It is always excellent, and I enjoy it, so please don't let her know that I do know how to cook, anyway, it won't take long to heat up!"

Percy nodded then went through the familiar routine of setting the table for them both, only interrupted when his father chuckled. He looked up to see him watching as he laid out the mats and cutlery, puzzled he looked back at the table. It was odd to see it with just two place settings, he was used to it having far more, then he realised what his father had found amusing. There might just be the two of them, but Percy realised he had set his place at what had been his customary seat, halfway down the table, whilst the other was at the head of it.

"I think we can sit closer to each other today Perc."

Smiling Percy moved his setting to be next to his fathers, then turned to fetch glasses, which he placed, then fetched a jug and filled it with water for them. By this time his father brought over two plates with the piping hot meal on them and set them on the mats. They sat and ate, chatting amiably about things until their plates were empty. Arthur washed while Percy dried the pots, still simply enjoying being with each other, then coffee in hand they walked into the lounge and sat down.

Percy knew the time had come, but stayed silent, unwilling to break the pleasant atmosphere with his problem, although that was the purpose of his visit. Arthur noticed. "So Percy, what's up?" He asked kindly, prompting his son. "You clearly have something on your mind son, if I can help, I hope you know I will."

"I do Dad, and yes I have a dilemma I need to talk to someone about, and you were the first that came to mind."

Arthur nodded. "So, from that, it's either personal or work, I would guess."

Percy nodded. "Work I'm afraid, direct from the Minister in fact."

"Ah!" Arthur said gravely.

Percy took a deep breath. "Earlier today he called me into his office, apparently he had a special task he wanted to discuss with me. The problem is, I am not entirely sure that what he has asked is entirely proper, but if I refuse then I am certain I will not have my current post in his office for much longer. I know you said he had an ulterior motive promoting me as he did, I am wondering if you might not be right about that, after all Dad." He paused, gathering his thoughts, before continuing. "Once I was in his office, he acted very friendly, just like when he offered me the promotion a few weeks ago. He asked how I was settling in, if I was enjoying my new post, that kind of thing, then he asked how I felt about Ginny and Harry. I told him I was pleased for them both although puzzled at everything that has been found out about them. Despite that I was glad they had discovered the truth about themselves and knew they could do a lot of good for our society. He seemed to agree, but was thoughtful. He expressed concern that they may be misguided and was concerned they had not included him amongst their advisors, he felt it was important that he was kept informed, so he could intervene if necessary. It seems that he believes that although we are not part of the Alliance I am best positioned, within his staff, to be his agent with them. He wants me to not only persuade them to allow him to attend all alliance meetings, but to act as their proxy in the Wizangamot and represent them in all matters. He wants me to inform him of what is going on in the Alliance regularly, especially on their plans for influencing votes."

Arthur sighed as Percy ran out of steam for the moment. "In other words he wants a mole and control. His pay masters have waned, so he is trying to gain influence and the backing of another powerful group, to bolster his position."

Percy nodded. "He believes that Ginny will want me close, his view is that despite us not being blood related after all, we were raised together as siblings. To him that means there is a natural trust that he can exploit and use. I can see that having them support the ministry is important, but they can do that without supporting the Minister. Yet the Minister is the head of the Ministry, I have difficulty seeing how they can defy one and not the other."

"You have much to learn Percy, The Minister is no more the Ministry than we two are, no less either, but we are all just cogs in the machine. It's not about loyalty to the organisation, he has actually asked you to put him holding the post ahead of the Ministry as a whole, betraying your family and Ginny in the process." Arthur responded.

"I have only just started healing my relationship with you all, including Harry and Ginny, I don't want to jeopardise that again." Percy observed.

Arthur smiled. "Good, I am glad to hear it. Just remember though that while we may not like what you do, we will always love you, Son."

"Thank you Dad, I think I am beginning to realise that. So what do you think I should do?"

Arthur thought for a moment. "Lets call Amelia, tell her what has gone on. Fudge should not be trying this, and especially shouldn't be putting you in this position. I don't think he is acting illegally, but certainly it shows how far he is willing to stoop for his own power. What you don't know Percy, and must keep quiet, is that Cornelius days are numbered, steps are being taken. I think Amelia would be interested in this, so if you agree I shall Floo her, get her here, the sooner she knows the better, she will also be able to protect your position."

Percy agreed nervously, and his father made the call. A few minutes later he was talking with the head of the DMLE about what had happened, he was quite surprised she was taking such an interest.

Harry and Ginny sat in their rooms after they had returned to the Alliance quarters, satisfied with their visit to Hagrids. They had been quite reassured, by the welcome they got from Hagrid. Fang naturally was pleased to see them, as usual after the summer, his greeting was enthusiastic. They had, of course, seen Hagrid only a few days before at the Garden Party, where he had seemed a little nervous of them, even though he was in his element looking after the small petting zoo for them. They had guessed that their disagreements with Dumbledore had led to his feeling awkward with them, he was fiercely loyal to the headmaster after all. Neither Harry, nor Ginny could blame him for that, Dumbledore had defended him when he had been expelled, Hagrid owed his position at Hogwarts, his livelihood, to the man, so they could fully understand it. Even so Hagrid was also loyal to Harry, so they could see that with them at odds with the headmaster would make their friend uncomfortable. They would not ask him to choose between them, they could not ask that of him, but they knew he needed that reassurance.

Hagrid had welcomed them in happily, though still a little edgily, a little out of sorts as he offered them seats and fussed putting the kettle on the fire, before jovially telling Fang to leave them alone. "Daft Dog, 'e's missed yah as always." He had said.

They had cheerfully agreed, and they had chatted amicably while the kettle boiled. Soon they were nursing steaming mugs of tea, though the plate of rock buns remained untouched, and the subject of the summer came up. Hagrid told them how uncomfortable the news reports had made him, though not wholly for the reasons they thought. He was upset at the treatment that they, Sirius and Bella had received, his memories had been among those restored, and he was ashamed of what he had believed and felt he had let them all down. He had then been upset at Dumbledores role in it, though he believed the headmaster was not motivated by anything, but his desire to ensure the greater good.

Ginny cast a detection charm on Hagrid without him noticing, and found some loyalty charms keyed to Dumbledore attached to his clothes. She quietly removed them, just as there was a knock on the door.
Fang growled, warningly, which surprised Harry and Ginny, they could not recall hearing the Boar hound react in that way to anyone at the door.

Hagrid opened the door. "Ah 'Eadmaster, what can I do for you."

"Ah Hagrid!" Dumbledore responded out of breath. "I believe Harry and Ginny have come to visit you, I wonder if I might come in and have a word with them."

Hagrid shifted uncomfortably. "Not sure tha's a good idea Albus, not arter all that's 'appened in't summer, not 'ere anyway."

"Oh those misunderstandings are all but, over and done with Hagrid. I am sure there is nothing to worry about, I really must have a word with them, ensure all is well with them." The headmaster gasped, trying to sound bright and breezy.

Fang stood, his head low and tail between his legs, he took position facing the door, between it and Harry and Ginny, his growling intensifying.

Not wanting Hagrid to be any more uncomfortable, Ginny spoke up. "I am sorry Headmaster, but as you know we may not speak with you without our Guardian being present. I know they would be happy to arrange that with you. In the meantime this is putting poor Hagrid in a very difficult position, which I am sure was not your intent, after all he does need to attend to Fang, who seems unsettled by something since you knocked."

They saw Dumbledore peer past the half giant to see the dog in an aggressive pose, defending the couple. Clearly unnerved at Fangs reaction the headmasters eyes widened, and he visibly gulped, then nervously looking at the boar hound, he stammered. "Err, yes, perhaps as Fang seems not to recognise me for some reason." He paused and fang growled louder and took a step forward, Dumbledore looked increasingly apprehensive. "Yes I think, caution being perhaps the better part of valour on this occasion. This can wait for another time, thank you, Hagrid." He turned and walked unsteadily away.

Hagrid closed the door and sat down, Fang had quieted, laid down and fallen asleep on the floor where he had stood.

Hagrid had realised Dumbledore had known the couple were here, he told them there had to have been a spell on his door or nearby for him to have known, unless he was watching the hut. Harry had closed his eyes for a moment and asked Hogwarts. When he opened them, he shook his head. "Hogwarts has removed the detection spell and several others from the hut Hagrid, she says all of them were cast by Dumbledore."

Hagrid had been appalled that Dumbledore would do such a thing. "It's like 'e don't trust me." He said.

Harry looked at his friend. "Hagrid I am sorry, but this summer has taught us we can't be sure who he trusts sadly."

"Ah can see tha' Arry, bu' ah thought 'e migh' trust me." The Half Giant said sadly, his shoulders slumped.

"Hagrid, look, we are here for you, just as you have always been there for us." Ginny told him. "We might have our differences with Dumbledore, but to us that doesn't mean those we trust have to as well."

Harry nodded. "We can no longer trust him without question, but we don't expect our friends to choose between us, and that goes for you to Hagrid. We don't expect you to choose us over him, so long as you follow your own judgement."

"Thanks 'Arry, you always were a good lad. I 'preciate it, you too Ginny." Hagrid replied. "I feel le' down bah 'im though, ah well lets no' leh it spoil yer visi'."

After that talk became more sociable, as Hagrid steadily cheered up again. Eventually Harry and Ginny returned to the castle, Hogwarts warning them the Dumbledore was waiting for them in the entrance, so they had walked back via the greenhouses instead, then made their way up to their rooms. Not entirely happy about what had happened, but content.

Harry turned to Ginny. "At least Hagrid was back to his usual self with us."

"Yes, though I still think he is a little torn, I am not sure Albus could do anything to completely make Hagrid turn against him, but thankfully I think he feels the same about you." Ginny grinned.

Harry laughed. "Maybe you are right, though somehow I don't think the same can be said for Umbridge, lets hope we don't have her first thing tomorrow."

"Agreed!" Said Ginny. "The meeting must be going on late, we haven't heard from Sirius yet."

"He said it might, but he will call us unless it was after midnight."

Amelia rushed to the Alliance meeting at Grimmauld Place, knowing she was very late, but had news that she hoped would prompt action at the ministry and support at the Wizangamot. She entered the room relieved to see they were all still assembled. "Sorry I am late, I had a last minute call to make, which proved interesting, I shall raise it with you all when convenient." She told them as they paused to look in her direction on her entry.

"No matter Amelia, we had just finished looking at how we can keep Harry and Ginny up to date with the necessary training they will need to lead the Alliance once they graduate. We were just about to go on to arrangements for the legislative Wizangamot meeting this week, so your arrival could not be better timed." Sirius smiled.

Amelia took her seat and awaited her turn to deliver her news.

The meeting was not dull, there were various items to discuss, including legislation that they wanted to put forward as well as the various bills they had all been notified of. The ones they were promoting were mainly to restore laws that had been repealed while the Alliance had been gagged, which restricted sections of society, or encouraged corruption. Inevitably discussions turned to the future of the Ministry and the Minister. Amos gave the main report on the current situation and the work being done to oust Fudge from within, before Amelia gave her news.

"Is Percy Weasley willing to take our guidance?" Amos asked once she had finished.

"He is willing to listen to us, yes Amos, as superiors in the Ministry. As far as the alliance is concerned he is willing to see what we do as a group. He has already seen the benefits we have caused, he still regards Ginny as his sister as well and while he is disillusioned with the Minister, he does not see that in itself as a failing in the Ministry." Amelia replied.

"Fair enough, but it is progress." Bella said. "So where do we go from here?"

"We chuck him out!" Came the response from one of the family heads.

Sirius chuckled. "If only it were that simple, but we must be seen as acting lawfully in this. Amos, Amelia is there anything we can do?"

Amos nodded to Amelia, who began to explain. "We need a few things in place and the Alliance can help with some of it at least. As you know, Fudge has received nominations for the Chief Warlock position, but has not brought them forward to the Wizangamot yet. We suspect he is not happy with the individuals nominated, so we need to overcome that and have someone in place soon in readiness for the stages that must follow."

Amos agreed. "I think it would be useful if the alliance could get the Wizangamot to step in, so the nominees become known at the very least, ideally so a Chief Warlock can be appointed."

"I understand there is a rumour that I have allowed my name to go forward, I can assure you all that it is not true." Lady Longbottom announced. "I am far too old for that, besides it won't be too long before Neville takes his place as head of house and I can enjoy life."

"Which deepens the puzzle of who has been." Sirius responded. "That said, have nominations closed? Would it be simpler to simply restart the process and order the Minister to present the nominations for vote at the next meeting?"

"That might be the best way actually, it would be a simple procedural vote rather than a more complex motion. It would have to come from one of the members who is not employed at the Ministry though." Amelia observed. "Any nominee could be from the Ministry staff or the Wizangamot members though."

"Alright, so we do that, then what?" Sirius asked.

Amos shrugged. "Phase two, as the muggles would call it." He said. "Which you cannot do anything to help with, that would be down to Amelia and me."

"We have already made progress on this, but we need to be cautious." Amelia added. "We need to continue to persuade the heads of department that a vote of no confidence in Fudge is best for us all. Some feel that although he is a fool, he has yet to show he is incompetent. That said his and Umbridges actions ought to sway them, in time."

"This is a game of politics, which the Alliance would traditionally simply allow to run its course until a vote in the Wizangamot." Amos said. "It is down to those of us within the Ministry to play this out until it has settled one way or the other. Once Fudge becomes aware of what is going on, then he will start to go on the offensive, which is another reason he doesn't want a Chief Warlock appointed. He believes that if he controls that position he can prevent the Wizangamot acting on any vote of no confidence, he is wrong in that of course, but doesn't realise it."

Amelia agreed. "So if he tries to get Wizangamot intervention, that is where the Alliance may be useful, simply to ensure the rules are followed and such an attempt is blocked. However once the vote has taken place, I believe society will look to both the heads of department and to the Alliance particularly to see where the Ministry should go afterwards. They will look to see who we support and if we agree on the candidate, if we do then I expect that candidate will be the one that succeeds. In any case I doubt we can look to put a candidate forward for Minister before the new year, as things stand at the moment."

Sirius nodded. "So quite a responsibility, and we shall need to brief Harry and Ginny carefully on this, I am sure they and their peers will have a view. In the meantime, should we push to restart the process and should we nominate anyone for Chief Warlock?"

The Heads of the Alliance families all voted, with the majority prevailing and then a discussion of who they would put forward as candidates for the positions, first for the Chief Warlock as the most urgent. Once everyone had left, Sirius turned to Bella and Narcissa. "Well Ladies, let's go call Harry and Ginny, see if they are still up."

The Staff room at Hogwarts was a hive of conversation, most of the staff had noticed the changes in the castle, some had felt the lightening of the atmosphere as well. It was customary for the staff to meet together here the night before the start of Term, but it was not often that the students were already in the castle. Most years they gathered the evening before their charges arrived, but although they had met to arrange the weekend, they had not yet had their customary start of year staff meeting. Now, the day before lessons, they were gathering for it, in the absence of the welcome banquet which had taken place a couple of nights ago. They had enjoyed a meal at the teachers table, watching over the students enjoying theirs. Now with the students under the watch of the prefects either at resuming evening clubs, in the grounds or in their dormitories, the staff gathered.

Although it was not just the teaching staff at this meeting, it was customary that the Headmaster did not attend. In addition, it was not often that Argus Filch chose to attend either, although he could if he wished and had been told of it. Albus stayed away, left it to his deputy, amongst other things, to deal with. They would have a meeting next weekend with him to report on how students were settling in and if anything urgent were raised it then he would be informed as necessary. Minerva arrived with the Alliance teachers and staff, who all helped themselves to a drink and then took a seat with their colleagues. Everyone expected was now present, and the chatter died down and eyes turned to her, just as the door opened again, and they all looked to see who was coming in.

"Argus, come in and welcome. It is not often we see you in here." Minerva smiled as the caretaker and his cat came tentatively into the room. "Would you like a drink? I am sure we can find some cream for Mrs. Norris."

"Thank you Professor!" He grunted.

"No problem Argus, please help yourself, I shall get the cream." Minerva replied as a jug appeared on the desk, complete with a bowl.

She placed the bowl on the floor once it was full and Filius conjured a chair for the Caretaker to take once he had his drink. A moment later he was settled, and they all returned their gaze, somewhat expectantly, to the Deputy Headmistress.

Minerva grinned. "Ah, I see up to me again this year, comes with the job I suppose." She said cheerfully "Well first of all may I officially say to those returning, welcome back, it is good to see you all again, and a warm welcome to our new colleague. I hope you have recovered from your fall earlier today, a salutary reminder to us all that no matter how well we think we know the School, we still need to be aware of warning announcements. However, please be assured Delores that such events are not every day occurrences. Should you need help settling in, or if you have any questions, then I am sure those of us who have been here for a while, will be happy to help, of course. Even I remember it was a little daunting to start teaching here, and fitting into an existing team."

She paused to take a drink as the others chuckled, though Umbridge scowled at the reference to her need for treatment in the hospital wing.

Minerva then continued. "Right, notices, if you have not looked at your timetables yet then please do, they were placed on your desks on Friday, before the train arrived. On the reverse of them is the duty rota for the non teaching duties, if you have a problem with them then talk to me or arrange a swap with one of us. As you have no doubt seen in the press there have been a number of events over the summer, some of which affect us here at the school. Not least of them being that the Alliance that helped build our world for centuries has re-emerged, thanks to the Heirs of the three families being either found or released. I have been assured that although they have certain privileges, such as their own coach on the train, they expect no special treatment regarding the disciplinary procedures in the school, be that more lenient or more harshly. The Earl has assured me of that and has also instructed those students who are part of the alliance the same. That said, they do have access to avenues others do not, and will not hesitate to defend themselves, and others should need arise. So this year once again, though with added weight, I ask that you all watch out for any bullying in the school, please report instances you may find to the heads of house. Finally, notices regarding any news or changes shall be posted to each of you as required. If you require any notices to be posted to students please pass them to heads of the houses, so they may be added to the notice boards in the common rooms. Please remember to make sufficient copies, for both the school and any you require for your own use. Any questions?"

"Yes, what is going on with the Castle?" Argus asked gruffly.

"Thank you, Argus, that's what I was wondering to." Professor Sinistra agreed. "When we arrived it was as usual, the students arrive, and it looks like new the next day, then today? What was all that about, it felt like an Earthquake, but we rarely feel those in this country and certainly not that strong."

The other staff, apart from those who were part of the Alliance, all nodded, not noticing grins on their colleagues face.

Minerva chuckled again. "It has been an extraordinary couple of days, even by the standards of recent years in the Castle hasn't it. Well it all has to do with the return of the Heirs of Hogwarts itself, the direct descendants of the founders are in the school and bonded. They bonded with Hogwarts over the first night here, actually the process began the moment they crossed the boundary together on Friday. That bonding triggered the restoration of the Castle and grounds, which leads me to a thought I have just had. We know from the moving and trick stairs, amongst other features, that the founders were likely pranksters, we do not yet know if what we know of is the extent of the tricks they left behind. Nor do we know if the restoration included reactivating any long since inert, so we do need to be on our guard."

"Oh boy I never thought of that." Filius said. "Argus, you travel these corridors more than we do, have you come across anything yet?"

The Caretaker nodded. "There are three more trick stairs between the entrance hall and the dungeons, there may be more I have yet to find."

"Please keep us informed." Filius answered.

Minerva nodded. "And it goes without saying, be careful, you and Mrs. Norris."

Argus nodded, but said no more.

Sinistra spoke again. "And today?"

"Ah yes Aurora, today completed the process, with the help of the Goblins and the Alliance, the founders Heirs restored the wards from the heart of Hogwarts. The process included detecting curses and removing them as well as identifying dark objects and ensuring they were either rendered useless, or removed." Minerva answered.

Umbridge looked alarmed, her blood quills could have been removed without her knowledge, it would take a few days to get any more. She schooled her features again, hoping no one had noticed while Minerva spoke again.

"Now the Heirs have control of the castle and the restoration is complete, their Castle has mended itself of centuries of damage."

"Their Castle?" Umbridge said sharply.

Minerva nodded. "Yes their Castle, Delores, They have inherited it, so it belongs to them, that is how these things work and have always worked."

Umbridge spluttered. "Hogwarts belongs to the Ministry Minerva, it doesn't matter what these so-called Heirs believe, they cannot own this Castle, it's impossible."

"I'm sorry Delores, the Ministry never owned Hogwarts or its estate, it has always been privately owned, even if it was unclear until now who the actual individuals were. That is set immutably in some of our most ancient laws, it ensured the independence of the school and prevented political interference." Minerva assured her, the rest of the staff knowing that to be true, agreeing with her.

Umbridge quieted, this was a battle that could wait, though she would need to report this property theft to Cornelius as soon as she could.

There were a couple of other questions, before the staff returned to socialising with each other, Minerva noticing that Umbridge left as quickly as she could, but interestingly Argus only left when the curfew bell for the students sounded.

Harry and Ginny settled into bed in their rooms after Sirius had called, it had been a long, tiring day, but rewarding. They were happy with the plans for the Alliance and had been briefed on the plans within the Ministry and the Wizangamot. They had also been told what would happen at the trial of Dumbledore in a few days, preparing them for their part in it. So much had happened in the last few weeks they had almost forgotten the headmaster still had to stand trial in front of the Wizangamot, and that they would be part of it. Though when they asked if the other actions could delay that, the older three looked at each other.

"Damn!" Narcissa exclaimed, "We never thought of that. It could, we shall need to check with Amelia."

Harry and Ginny nodded, then reported what had been happening at the School over the weekend since their return to Sirius and Bella, they were all satisfied with the progress so far, but knew there was much more to achieve. Now they settled into their bed, wished each other good night and quickly fell asleep.

Monday 4th September

The following morning they awoke early, lessons started today, the true beginning of a new term. It had been an unusual start, two days from the journey, two days to settle and two days of great change for the school. Harry and Ginny conducted their normal morning routine, Dobby had laid out their clothes whilst they washed. They joined the throng of students in the corridors, making their way to breakfast. There was an air of excitement and anticipation in the Great Hall while they ate, and the students were all given their timetables by their head of house. Harry groaned as he saw they had potions for their very first lesson, which was where things began to get eventful.

They entered the dungeon classroom and settled as usual, but it soon became evident that not all was as it usually had been in the past. Harry knew that carrying the name Black held a lot of weight in the Wizarding world and that most of that family had been Slytherins at least in recent generations. Which had left him wondering why relatively few of the current students in that house were part of the Alliance. Draco and Daphne were the leading members of both, but they headed a small group. So Harry was not expecting his change in circumstances to alter how he was treated by the members of Slytherin house, let alone its head. However, Snape was almost civil towards him. Yes it was through gritted teeth, but he was noticeably less obnoxious than usual, he even awarded Harry points for his potion and didn't take any from Gryffindor either. Even the other Slytherins in the class were treating him with respect, it was a remarkable change, even Neville was calm enough to do a reasonable potion as a result. His knowledge of plants now easily transferred to recognising ingredients, now the atmosphere of oppression had gone. Then they made their way up to the Defence Classroom, not knowing what to expect from the new teacher.

Umbridge had not had a good start to the week, she had been thwarted in her first attempts to restrict the groups she had observed. Unable to interfere in the Quidditch trials, then she suspected that she had been deliberately mislead about the vantage point. Although it admittedly gave a view over much further than just the grounds, there were areas that could not be seen. Then there had been her accident, while descending the tower and to top it off, all her Blood Quills had gone. As a result she had used her free time this morning sourcing more, and collecting them, they were safely locked in her desk ready for use. Having secured some she felt better, more confident that she would soon gain the control she deserved over any rebellious students. As for the staff meeting, she was certain that Cornelius would correct the matter of ownership of the School, there could be no way the castle did not belong to the Ministry. Confident in her position, she smiled at the class, sweetly. After all it was not the other students fault that Potter was in this class, she was certain many of them would resent the boys' expectation of special treatment just as she did. This was a class she had looked forward to, she would finally be in a position of authority over him, a position that no one would question. She had been authorised by the Minister to be here, and the headmaster wished her to bring the boy to heel once more, a task she was happy to fulfil.

The students looked back at her unsure what to expect from her, but nervous anticipation on most of their faces, though she noticed Potter simply looked impassive. Perhaps this was a sign that her task might be easier than she anticipated, maybe he already was not popular and ostracised by many at the school. She stood and faced the room. "Good morning class, welcome to the start of your defence against the dark arts O.W.L. year. At last, you will receive proper instruction in the basics of this subject, it is unfortunate that none of your previous teachers saw the necessity of these foundations in your education. After all one must walk before you can run, mustn't one." She began, pushing to judge their approval of her statement.

The class was silent, many staring at her wide-eyed in apparent disbelief. She took that to mean that they were incredulous and thankful that at last they would gain a firm grounding in defence, so continued outlining the course and its requirements to them, at length, concluding with. "So we shall cut through fiction and misinformation, to the truth, using methods to learn when action is required. The acceptance of the authority of those placed in positions above us, such as the Ministry, is vital to maintain order and in defence of our society. Such bodies benefit from the collective wisdom of its members and structures, placing it beyond question in all matters, for example. The Ministry, as our rightful government, is ruled by the Wizangamot with the Minister as its day to day head can be trusted completely of course and will protect you as your status requires. Hence, my presence here, to reassure you that despite recent events, you are safe, the ministry can and will protect you from real threats, such as those who believe themselves beyond their reach who threaten our peace with imagined dangers. To assume a post one hasn't earned or is not entitled to is disloyal and can be dangerous to our society, regardless of who supports them in the delusion."

She had looked directly at the impassive Harry as she said the last sentence, she believed his unchanging expression was a show of indolence, perhaps her task was already achieved, she had pacified the boy and his supporters. She looked round the room, a few hands had risen, which she took as a hopeful sign. Even so she chose what she believed would be a supportive individual to ask a question. "Yes, Miss. Bones." She smiled, knowing her aunt was a senior Ministry official.

"Perhaps you could clarify Professor, you seem to infer that the Ministry is infallible, is incapable of error, is that correct?"

Umbridge looked smug, pleased for the opportunity to reinforce her view, clearly Miss Bones had been told to aid her. "That is indeed correct Miss. Bones, being made up of our oldest and wealthiest families the Wizangamot ensures the ministry does not make mistakes."

"Ah I see!" Susan nodded. "In which case could you please explain the situation regarding Lord Sirius Black and the Lady Bellatrix. Further could you elaborate on the recent events in the Wizangamot, the additions of the Blacks and Potters, as well as the other reported decisions regarding those members of our oldest families who bore the Dark Mark?"

Umbridge reddened and drew herself up before narrowing her eyes and replying. "Such matters are not the concern of children, but as you are well aware Miss Bones the Minister was forced to act by a minor technicality in those cases. As far as the Blacks are concerned a minor point of law meant the Ministry had to free them, regardless of their obvious guilt. The Ministry abides by its own rules, even when it does not suit it, but that does not mean errors were made."

There were several snorts of disbelief and Neville raised his hand, Umbridge acknowledged him, and he spoke. "So following that logic, you are saying you have no confidence in the Ministry's ability to prosecute the guilty and protect society. In which case how can we possibly have any confidence in the Minister when his own former undersecretary believes that his Ministry is incapable of performing such a basic function?"

Umbridges indignation rose. "That is not what I said or what I am saying, Mr Longbottom as you are more than well aware." But, the class was already laughing, she continued on regardless. "What I said was that Black and Lestrange used a previously unnoticed loophole, nothing more."

"Wait, you mean you have released a Lestrange, that is indeed worrying." Exclaimed Draco in disbelief. Umbridges smug expression returned briefly, cut short when Draco continued. "I understood that my insane Aunt, her husband, and his brother were still in Azkaban where they belong. Certainly we have had no news that my fathers' sister had been released, that would indeed be irresponsible, to which of the three are you referring?"

"Why Bellatrix of course." Umbridge replied in disbelief.

Draco grinned. "Oh my Aunt on my mothers side, but she was never a Lestrange. Perhaps you missed it, you were adjusting to the first of you new posts this summer perhaps, but you are in error. There are no records that Aunt Bella married either of the brothers because she didn't, so she was never a Lestrange, that is indisputable. As is the fact that the crimes attributed to her, have been proven to have been committed by my idiot fathers sister. However, having learned you were to teach here and being aware of your attacks on my family members recently, Harry and I have obtained official confirmation of this from the Ministry. You are therefore formally required to desist in promoting your prejudiced opinion regarding the Lord and Lady Black immediately."

" Don't be ridiculous child." Umbridge scoffed. "You cannot possibly demand that, you are not of age, or have you like Potter got delusions of grandeur. Now sit down and shut up, you may not question the actions of your superiors."

Draco grinned. "Yes, we thought that might be your tack when confronted with the truth, Susan, if you would?"

"Certainly Draco." She stood placed a bottle on her desk and placed a sheaf of Parchment next to it, she confidently looked at the Professor. "Madam Umbridge you record shows that you were recently demoted for bringing the Ministry into disrepute, it also shows that you are still in its employ currently on secondment to Hogwarts at the request of the headmaster. As such you are subject to all rules and regulations incumbent on the staff of both the Ministry and the school. You have shown you are completely aware of Ministry decisions. Yet because you personally disagree with them, you are promoting sedition against your employers by misusing your position as a teacher to try to convince students that danger exists where it doesn't. In doing so you are attempting to create unnecessary panic and division in the school and society."

Umbridge was fuming. "So what? I am your teacher, who would believe your word over mine. Be careful Miss Bones, once people see through the misinformation in the press I shall be restored to my former position of power."

Unabashed, Susan continued. "In view of your actions today a formal complaint will be made, complete with a recording and memories of this class, to both the governors and the ministry."

Suddenly each student had a bottle in front of them and Hermione demonstrated to those who did not know how to extract the memory if they wished to add theirs to those of the alliance members. She quickly gathered them, except for Susan, Draco's and her own, up and placed them into a box.

Umbridge had been stunned at such defiance by a niece of a senior Ministry official, but seeing the box full of memories seemed to jolt her. "I don't believe that is in anyone's best interest Miss Bones, do you." Her sweet voice returning as if speaking to a toddler. "Enough now, hand that box to me, we can't have those falling into the wrong hands now can we."

She held out her hand towards Hermione and was stunned when the bushy haired Mud blood simply stood smirking. Temper flaring she took out her wand, casting a spell at the box, which glowed at the impact but was otherwise unaffected. Her frustration growing. "Very well, you leave me no choice." She declared.

The bell rang to signify the end of the lesson, just as she cast a spell to seal the room. "You will hand over those memories and recordings before you leave the room." she demanded.

Hermione added the last three memories to the box, then added the records Susan had made. Fawkes flashed in, gripped the box, then flashed out again, with the box and its contents.

Harry stood. " I think we shall be off now." He spoke for the first time. " It's been interesting, even somewhat entertaining, but it is time for Lunch before we enjoy an afternoon of study. I am sure you need to prepare for your next lessons, especially given the lack of substance in this one."

The Alliance students stood and followed him as he walked to the door, the other students looking confused stood and watched. Umbridge smirked, confident in her spell. " You are not going anywhere, not until you order that bird to return what it took, and I have Obliviated you all."

"Really!" Harry said as he reached for the door handle.

The moment he touched it, there was a flash as the sealing spell fell. He swung the door open, followed by his friends, then quickly his classmates, none of whom wanted to be left alone in the room with the astonished, furious woman.

Halfway down the corridor Harry turned to Hermione with a grin. "Did that count as abusing my position?"

During Lunch Hermione collected as many memories of Umbridges threat to wipe their memories as possible. Once they had them, Fawkes took them away as well, much to the fury of the watching Umbridge and shock of Dumbledore who had just arrived in the Hall. Albus was not used to seeing any Phoenix, but his own in the school, but Fawkes had still not returned to him. To see such a magnificent example, bonded to another, was galling and would be humiliating, if his own loss were known widely. Even so he felt a pang of jealousy, and he knew he could do nothing about the bright avian visiting the school, even if he had still got control of the wards, he would have been able to do nothing.

While the students were engaged in their evening activities, to members of staff in the school were fuming, alone in their respective rooms. Umbridge had suffered a second humiliation at the hands of Potter, if she had thought she would receive support from the Minister she was quickly disabused of that notion when she called the Minister to report. He had insisted on stepping through, together with Madam Bones, both of whom had reviewed her nieces recording and sufficient of the memories to form an opinion on the class, it was not one Delores shared. Yet again Potter was believed over her, unbelievable as that was, she would need to think about how she controlled the boy. She realised she would need to either cease her ambition, or gain more power. It was clear the Minister would not simply back her as he had said he would, so any power base she could build in the school would be how she proved Potter was fooling them all.

In his office Dumbledore was still feeling weak, still at a loss to explain it or the events since term started, at least those he knew of, he suspected there may be others. He had lost many of his sources in the school, including many of the staff, who had made it clear they would only be reporting school matters to him, not information about students activities outside class. He had only heard of Delores trouble in class after she had been visited by Cornelius and Madam Bones.

That was another worry for him. He needed the woman to target Harry, to drive him back to him, but she had proved to have no subtlety, she was a sledgehammer and in danger of becoming more a liability than a help. If that happened he would need to get rid of her, for now though he would need to have her temper her methods. His own encounter with Harry at Hagrids last week had shown that, it was clear that in the weeks since he had previously spoken with him, his attitude had not mellowed towards him. He needed that to change, and change soon, especially as he had heard that the Wizangamot had received a proposal to restart the process to get a new Chief Warlock at its meeting later in the week. He wondered if he would ever get his plan back on track, or what else could possibly go wrong.

---

Authors notes:
At last another chapter ready for you, my thanks to all who have comented, favourited, followed this story since last time. Next chapter is about half done and I will publish it as soon as I can.

My best wishes to you all.

Until next time.

Tgfoy