Chapter 30:
to pankajsureka1: I am sorry my friend, I can understand that you find this depressing. I too find the content I am writing sometimes distressing haha. The thing is any fic that tries to show the First Blood War like it's being talked about later cannot possibly be uplifting. There is a reason why Magical Britain was so traumatised and why many refused to believe that Voldemort had come back. War is horrible and this one especially is one that affects every single wizard and witch in Britain unlike the war against Grindelwald that mainly affected mainland Europe. This fanfiction will stay dark and while it pains me to not see another review from you, you might want to stay away until I have finished this and come to the main storyline because it won't get better until then.
A/N: Losing couple of follows and stuff. Disappointing to see, what am I doing wrong? Let me know please.
4th October 1976, England, Lestrange Manor:
We find ourselves in an abandoned room on the second floor of the manor owned by the Lestrange family. It was once used by one of the many servants the Lestrange family 'employed' during the middle ages. The door opened and two men walked in, one with a curious expression while the other looked like his puppy had just been killed.
Bertram slumped into a worn-out chair, his face etched with sorrow and regret. Morbius Borgin, his best friend and confidant ever since their Hogwarts days, took a seat opposite him studying Bertram's pained expression. He was curious about why his best friend had asked him to come with him to this secret like location.
"I don't really care about the rest they made their choices, Morbius, but Bianca and Barrow... they were just kids, you know? They didn't understand the true consequences of their actions. Barrow's death was senseless, but it's not only that which has shaken me to my core."
Morbius leaned forward, his voice filled with concern as he spoke:
"Damn. Man that's messed up and I can imagine how you must feel right now but listen. It's probably best if you keep these doubts to yourself, you never know who might be listening or who might use it against you. You know how ruthless most of our associates can be."
Bertram's eyes flicker with a mix of pain and resignation but he nodded in agreement.
"I understand mate. You're my best friend, and I trust you won't betray me. But the others... they won't care about my doubts or my wellbeing. I didn't care about the wellbeing of most of my family either, and I suppose that's how they'll see it."
Morbius leans back, a hint of bitterness tainting his words.
Morbius: "Yeah, you're damn right. They won't care. Loyalty and self-preservation come first in our world. We've seen it time and time again. You helped our lord kill your own family, for fuck's sake. That won't be forgotten easily."
Bertram's gaze drops to the floor, his voice barely above a whisper.
Bertram: "I know, Morbius. I know what I've done, the blood on my hands. But Bianca... our lord is using her as leverage to ensure my loyalty. It tears me apart. I've been loyal for so many years, and yet he still doubts me."
Morbius leans forward again, his voice softer, tinged with a mix of sympathy and caution.
Morbius: "Look, Bertram, I understand your pain. I really do. But you need to be careful. These are dangerous times, and trust is a luxury we can't afford. Keep your doubts hidden, buried deep within yourself. And remember, I've got your back. I won't rat you out."
A faint smile tugs at the corners of Bertram's lips, gratitude shining in his eyes.
Bertram: "Thank you, Morbius. I appreciate your loyalty more than you'll ever know. It's just a constant struggle you know?"
Morbius smirks, attempting to lighten the heavy atmosphere.
Morbius: "Hah, well, you better not forget that I've got your back, my friend. We've been through too much together to let anything tear us apart."
Bertram manages a weak chuckle, a brief respite from the weight of his regrets.
Bertram: "You're right, Morbius. We've come too far to let doubts and fears consume us. We'll stay strong, together."
**Scene Break**
4th October 1976, Scotland, Hogsmeade, Hog's Head:
The weary Order members gathered in the dimly lit Hog's Head, seeking solace and respite after the distressing events at Burke Manor. The room was filled with people of exhaustion and disappointment, yet a spark of hope persisted among them. They found comfort and familiarity within the walls of Aberforth Dumbledore's pub, where whispered conversations and solemn expressions often were the norm.
Albus Dumbledore's eyes were filled with both weariness and determination and he stood up at the center of the room, addressing his allies in an attempt to cheer them up.
"We may not have succeeded in saving the Burkes, and for that, we mourn today but let us not forget the resilience we have displayed today. We stood our ground, fought valiantly, and ensured the safety of our own. We might have faced a setback, but we are far from defeated. Our losses fuel our determination to bring an end to the Dark forces that threaten our world. We regroup, strategize, and continue the fight. We must remember that we fight for a future where families like theirs can live without fear. Let us honor the memory of those we have lost by redoubling our efforts. We fight not only for their legacy but also for a world where love and justice prevail over darkness."
The members of the Order nod, their faces reflecting a combination of grief and unwavering resolve. They exchange glances, silently acknowledging the sacrifices made and the importance of their united cause.
Alastor Moody, his magical eye scanning the room, speaks up, his voice filled with a mix of exasperation and determination.
"During the battle I noticed more than one of you hesitating to use offensive spells. I know most of you aren't used to fighting but this is a war dammit. We can't just let the death eaters get away with only minor injuries or worse stunning them so get your shit together" he said making Albus shake his head hearing his friend's choice of words. He didn't intervene however curious on how the other's would respond... yet that is.
Dorcas Meadowes, her voice laced with sorrow, added her opinion on this statement.
Alastor do I need to remind you that this was only the second battle many of us have ever been in? We can't just switch our minds to one of a auror or even a hit-wizard"
„Then you better do so quickly or we might just have to bury you within the next few months"
„That's enough Alastor!" said Emmeline Vance firmly not pleased with her ally at the moment. She felt he was too rough on the others sometimes.
„I quite agree, we are all allies here so there is no need for infighting. Even more we cannot allow ourselves to squabble when we have more pressing matters to talk about." Albus said holding up his hands in a placating way and his efforts seemed to have worked as Alastor and the others had calmed down and were now listening to him.
Caradoc Dearborn, his features hardened by the battle fought today, interjected with determination.
„ Alastor is right though. We must learn from our mistakes and adapt. The Death Eaters may have claimed a victory today, but they will soon realize the cost of crossing the Order of the Phoenix."
The room fell into a brief silence as the weight of their collective grief settled upon them. But soon, a renewed sense of purpose filled the air, reigniting their spirits.
They raised their glasses in a silent toast, a symbolic gesture of unity and resilience, honoring the fallen and affirming their commitment to the cause.
Although the battle at Burke Manor ended in tragedy, their spirits remained unbroken, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.
As they looked to the future, a glimmer of hope illuminated their eyes, casting away the shadows of defeat and igniting the flame of determination within each of them. Each of them was occupied with their own thoughts until Albus brings them back to reality.
„There is still something we need to talk about however. Mainly on how the events today will influence the political landscape of the Wizengamot"
**Scene Break**
Adolphus Pyrites sat in a dimly lit room, the air heavy with anticipation as he awaited Lord Voldemort's presence. Thoughts whirled through his mind, a mix of confusion and curiosity surrounding the fate of his family. He had woken up to the face of a young woman who told him she had patched him up as best as she could and that their Lord was coming before she had left the room.
As the door creaked open, Adolphus rose to his feet, his eyes fixed on the figure entering the room. Lord Voldemort, his cold and menacing presence commanding attention, approached Adolphus with a calculated gaze.
"Well Heir Pyrites, you bear witness to the aftermath of the battle that unfolded at your family home. The Pyrites family has suffered significant losses, and only your mother managed to escape with two infants in her arms. It's lucky you were instrumental in today's success otherwise I might have had to show you while neglecting to inform Augustus of that fact was not a good idea"
Adolphus felt a surge of conflicting emotions, his face betraying his astonishment at the news of his newfound siblings. The realization that his parents had concealed this information from him struck a chord deep within him, challenging the assumptions he had held about their relationship.
"My Lord, I... I had no knowledge of my parents having twins. It perplexes me that they would keep such an important matter hidden from me. Our relationship had its challenges, but I never believed they would mistrust me to this extent."
Voldemort observed Adolphus closely, his piercing gaze searching for any signs of dissent or disloyalty. He then waved his hand dismissevely.
"Well in the end it matters not, Adolphus. Your primary mission remains the acquisition of experience and skill to serve me. Your secondary mission is to uncover the whereabouts of your mother and siblings. And, as an additional task, you are to retrieve your sister who still resides at Hogwarts. Convince her to join our ranks by any means necessary"
Adolphus nodded, his face carefully concealing the internal turmoil. The weight of his loyalty to Voldemort overshadowed the personal questions that lingered within him.
"I understand, my Lord. I shall fulfill my missions diligently and without question."
Voldemort's lips curled into a twisted smile, his eyes gleaming with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation.
"Good. Remember, Adolphus, loyalty is rewarded, and those who prove themselves worthy shall receive the Dark Lord's favor."
As Adolphus accepted his directives, he pushed aside the nagging doubts that threatened to consume him. The knowledge that his parents had deliberately kept him in the dark gnawed at him, yet his commitment to the Dark Lord compelled him to cast those thoughts aside.
Conveniently, Adolphus disregarded the fact that his betrayal of his family had warranted their mistrust. The path he had chosen was leading him down a treacherous road, one that necessitated a sacrifice of personal ties for the sake of his allegiance to Voldemort.
In that moment, Adolphus resolved to embrace his new missions wholeheartedly. He would uncover the truth behind his family's secrets, find his mother and siblings, and fulfill his role as a loyal servant of the Dark Lord. The allure of power and acceptance drove him forward, as he buried the lingering doubts beneath layers of unwavering dedication.
Little did he know that the path he had embarked upon would test not only his loyalty but also his very identity, as he navigated a world shrouded in darkness and treachery.
**Scene Break**
Jennifer, her best friends and the rest of the student body were peacefully eating their dinner with only the stuff preteens and teenagers tend to think about occupying their minds. Then the school owls were flying into the hall carrying with them mainly what many assumed to be newspapers. They were confused and some were worried as most of them only had subscriptions to the Daily Prophet and it usually never sent out editions during the evening. Once the students got to read the headlines however a collective gasp could be heard throughout the main hall. Curious Jennifer asked Lily for her edition and was confused when her friend seemed hesitant to give her the newspaper. It became clear when Lily decided that in the end it didn't really matter if she read it now or heard it from others later.
Special Edition!
Chief Warlock and Lord Black speak in support of werewolves! Are our creature laws to harsh?
You-Know-Who attacks Houses Burke and Pyrites, near extinction of both families and Burke Manor heavily damaged!
Jennifer recoiled, tears welling in her eyes. Within seconds she had lost her composure and was crying openly. Embarrassement emerged besides the deep sorrow within her and she got up and ran from the main hall hoping to find a place where she could be alone for a while.
Greta Catchlove, one of Jennifer's closest friends, exchanged worried glances with Lily Evans and Marlene McKinnon, understanding the depth of Jennifer's anguish. They knew they couldn't follow her right away; she needed time to process the news in solitude. As they continued their breakfast, their conversation shifted to concern for their friend.
Greta, her voice filled with empathy, said, "She must be shattered. Losing almost her entire family in such a brutal attack... It's unimaginable."
Lily nodded, her brow furrowed. "We have to be there for her, Greta. Jennifer needs our support more than ever. But how can we console her? What can we do to ease her pain?"
Marlene, her expression determined, chimed in, "We can start by letting her know that we're here for her, no matter what. We can lend her a listening ear and offer a shoulder to cry on. Sometimes, all we need is someone to share our sorrow with."
Greta's eyes brightened with understanding. "You're right, Marlene. And maybe, in time, we can help her find the strength to heal. We'll remind her that she's not alone and that she still has people who care deeply for her."
Meanwhile Jennifer sat alone in the abandoned classroom, her tear-streaked face buried in her hands. The weight of the headlines from the Daily Prophet bore down on her, amplifying the pain and grief that already consumed her heart. The words echoed in her mind, the devastation hitting her like a tidal wave.
Jennifer slowly wiped away her tears, her mind swirling with a mix of emotions. The news of her family's near extinction hit her harder than anything she had ever experienced. The loss of her little sister, Evelyn, to a werewolf attack had already devastated her, but this seemed like a cruel twist of fate, as if Mother Magic had finally decided to end her family. She knew of the curse of course and during the holidays spent hours upon hours gazing at an image of their current family tree. So many uncles, aunts, great uncles and great aunts she never got to meet.
Her thoughts were interrupted as she read further down the article, scanning the list of names of those found dead. Her brother, Adolphus, wasn't among them, and a strange sense of unease washed over her. She remembered how he had distanced himself from the family, avoiding the courthouse and their gatherings for years. In that moment, she couldn't help but feel a mixture of resentment and relief, conflicted by her emotions.
Jennifer's internal dialogue intensified, her thoughts racing. "Why does it have to be this way? Why couldn't we have been spared this tragedy? And why did Adolphus, the one who turned his back on us, survive? It's not fair!"
She took a deep breath, her mind slowly clearing from the whirlwind of emotions. Jennifer knew she couldn't dwell on resentment or unanswered questions. Right now, her focus needed to be on grieving and finding the strength to move forward.
With a determined expression, Jennifer continued to read the article, absorbing every detail. It was painful, but she needed to know. She needed to understand the extent of the loss and face the harsh reality of what remained of her shattered family.
As the scene shifted back to Jennifer, her tears still flowing, she whispered to herself, "I will honor their memory. I will carry their love within me and make them proud. Even in the midst of this darkness, I will find the strength to shine."
**Scene Break**
4th October 1976, England, Springfield Cottage:
Springfield Cottage stood amidst the quiet countryside, its peaceful facade belying the tumultuous events that had unfolded. Springfield Cottage had long been the place where the Dawlish raised their children while the manor was only the place where they held feasts and parties. With the destruction of Dawlish Manor earlier that year that had ended though most of the family didn't miss it and the parties too much.
Roxanna Pyrites,her arms holding her youngest children, Anton and Anna, apparated to the cottage's doorstep. Looking around she couldn't see her husband and an ominous feeling began to well in her stomach.
„Calvin? Calvin where are you? Nononono not you too please. Calvin? Please answer me. PLEASE!" but it was to no avail. After a while large parts of her mind had realised that her husband was likely dead and she layed her twins gently to the ground. Then she broke down silently sobbing, making sure her children could keep sleeping. It took her a while but eventually she regained her composure, gathered Anton and Anna in her arms and walked over to the doorstep of her childhood home.
As the door opened, the worried faces of her parents, Robert and Marianne Dawlish, greeted her.
Marianne, embraced Roxanna tightly. "Oh Roxanna have you heard about the attack on the Burkes? " she whispered having been worried about her daughter before she registered the tear stricken face of her daughter.
„Merlin, what happened?"
„Mom... we were attacked by death eaters... I am the only one to make it out.. I don't know if anyone else survived but I don't think I can hope for anything".
Her parents were so shocked they couldn't say anything for a while, not that Roxanna blamed them. It was difficult for her to accept her new reality and a small part of her mind was still shouting that all of this was just a bad dream.
„Oh Merlin, come here my dear. I am here for you Roxy"
Roxanna held her mother tightly, finding solace in her comforting presence while her father went back into the house presumely to find her brothers when the words registered in her mind.
Again she sobbed into her mother's arms as said mother tried to calm her down.
"I can't believe only me and the twins made it out alive. .. so many... so many didn't survive." she replied, her voice laced with sorrow.
„It's okay baby, it's okay"
**Scene Break**
5th October 1976, England, Springfield Cottage:
As Roxanna settled into Springfield Cottage, a solemn reunion unfolded. Her brothers, Lewis and John, greeted her with open arms. Lewis, his face etched with lines of experience, spoke first.
"Roxanna, I'm glad you and the children made it through. It's been a living nightmare out there. I fought alongside members of our alliance and Dumbledore for some reason at Burke Manor, but we weren't able to save the Burkes sadly. We dealt them as good as we could though and were quite successfull in that regard but we also lost a few." Lewis said, his voice filled with a mixture of sadness and determination.
„Did anyone make it out alive?" asked Roxanna.
„There are rumours amongst the other aurors that Lord Burke's grandson Bertram is a death eater so..." said John
„So it might have been him that let them in and he's probably the only one left" finished a grim Robert.
„Yeah probably but it's only speculation you know?" John asked shrugging.
„So where were you today John?" she asked her little brother who grimaced and sat down wearily.
"I was dispatched to a muggle village that was targeted by Death Eaters today. We were stretched thin, Roxanna and only 2 other pairs besides mine were sent to the village. Do you know that there were almost a dozen aurors sent to the Courthouse?"
Roxanna shook her head surprised the Auror Department had so many aurors left to send to her family's rescue.
„No I never saw them but I guess it should have been obvious with how much time we were able to spend in one of the rooms before I and... I and Calvin left with the twins." there was silence for some time after that sentence as noone knew what to say.
Meanwhile Roxanna was thinking about the fact that her family and the Burkes had suffered so much. The realization that the attack on the muggle village was a deliberate diversion struck her with a sense of anger and frustration. "You know I just thought about it. To me it seems they wanted to ensure that help couldn't reach us in time. Those vile Death Eaters... they knew what they were doing." she responded, her voice tinged with a mix of bitterness and determination.
„Damn that actually makes a lot of sense. Bloody psychopaths the lot." swore John angrily.
„Couldn't they have just you know pulled the aurors back from the villages when they got the message that the Courthouse and Burke Manor were attacked?" asked a frustrated Roxanna.
„Unfortunately not sis. Can't let the death eaters rampage through the muggle world even when they just wanted to bait us, can we?" said Lewis and John nodded emphasising his brother's words. Roxanna had heard about the statute of cours, every child raised in the magical world was taught about it and the muggleborns could read about it in the introductionary books they got when one of Hogwarts professors came to take them to Diagon Alley.
„Yeah there's a reason why there are only a few magical tribes left in Africa." John said solemnly.
„Huh I never heard about that, I assumed they had ministries like us" Lewis said and Roxanna nodded also curious what John was talking about.
„You both never bothered to open your history books, did you? Hmpf figures" said John grumpily before beginning the tale of those that tried to defy the Statute of Secrecy.
„It was mostly during what the muggles nowadays call the scramble for Africa when the European muggles tried to colonise as much land for their respective countries as possible. When the Magicals in Africa tried to help their muggle brethren the ICW intervened and slaughtered them all when they refused to budge from their position"
„Damn didn't know they could be so ruthless. What happened to that competence in dealing with statute violations when Grindelwald started his conquest?" by now Roxanna was having troubles following the conversation.
„I don't know actually but I guess it was because by the time Grindelwald started to act out in the open he had gathered enough ministries under his banner like Germany, Austria and Denmark"
„So an intervention would have meant a war with a lot of casualties"
„Yeah exactly, the muggles were luckily distracted by their own war so by the time they would have been able to notice the strange attacks on their villages Grindelwald had long been defeated by Dumbledore."
The conversation fizzled out after that and soon Lewis and John excused themselves saying that they needed to send their children, who were at Hogwarts, some letters. Roxanna checked on the twins before slowly falling asleep, dreaming again and again of her husband calling for help.
**Scene Break**
It was during dinner the next day that Robert spoke up, his voice filled with concern. "My dear, we need to be cautious. The danger is far from over so it's best for you to remain in hiding, even if it pains you to let Jennifer believe you perished. We must protect you and the children." This sentence absolutely stumped Roxanna who couldn't believe what she was hearing. The others familiar with their sister's / daughter's rants could see that another one was brewing inside her and knowing that she was already close to breaking from the previous events they thought it better to leave the table and get to safety in the adjacent rooms. Roxanna didn't notice this one bit as a storm was brewing inside her and within seconds that storm exploded.
„How dare you!? This is my daughter and she has just found out that only her brother likely survived an attack by those horrendous blood purists and you want me to let her believe she lost her mother too? How much mental torture do you want her to suffer from? The only other Pyrites left is Adolphus and you know he doesn't care about her! Are you out of your mind?" she ranted before a ringing slap stumped her into silence. Holding her cheek she looked incredulously at her father who looked at her with an apologising face.
„I'm sorry I had to hit you but you just cannot talk to your father like that Roxanna even if you're a parent of your own now and even if you are no longer legally a member of House Dawlish" silence reigned in the room after that declaration as Robert wearily watched his daughter having another mental breakdown. Doing what any other father would have done in this situation he took her into his lap and gave his silent support. It took Roxanna a while to calm down again but when she did so the girl she had once been came to the surface again.
„Please dad just.. just give me an explanation why Jennifer needs to be left in the dark so I can atleast lie to myself that it is justified" she begged with tears in her eyes. Robert sighed and waited a moment before starting his explanation
„You mentioned that Adolphus was the only one left and you're right but exactly that is why you can't go back. Adolphus will soon take his Wizengamot seat which is his right as the only male adult left in the Pyrites family. It won't be long before You-Know-Who comes knocking to pressure Adolphus into joining him and I doubt that the boy will resist. And yes You-Know-Who will come after your house, he knows the Pyrites are vulnerable now" Robert told his daughter. Neither could have known that Roxanna's son had already betrayed the family and felt absolutely no remorse about it.
„But... father I can't just abandon Jennifer to her fate. You know Adolphus can be unpredictable sometimes and I worry about what he might do to her if he comes under You-Know-Who's influence" Roxanna said desperately.
Robert's face softened with empathy, and he reached out to gently touch Roxanna's hand. "I understand your concern, my dear but we have to consider the bigger picture. If we go back now, we risk putting Jennifer in even more danger. She's a strong young woman and capable of standing up for herself should the boy try anything. Besides I doubt he would do anything to her. They might not love eachother but they're still siblings."
Roxanna while still unsure about this nodded, immense sorrow in her eyes. „... I think I understand father.. It hurts to know Jennifer believes I'm gone, but maybe it really is for the best. I'll stay hidden, keeping my survival a secret. I just hope nothing bad happens to her"
As the days continued, the Dawlish family shared stories, memories, and their hopes for a brighter future. In that moment, surrounded by loved ones who had endured their own share of loss and hardship, Roxanna found atleast some solace and strength. They vowed to support one another and work together to bring an end to the darkness that had plagued their lives.
**Scene Break**
It was during a cold October night when a robed and hooded figure entered the Irish ministry. The clerks wondered who this could be as they had never seen someone like that before but each got an ominous feeling as if something had just changed in their country. The figure asked one of them the way to the wise council and upon hearing the foreign language the clerk was confused before getting someone that was able to translate english. An hour later of bureaucracy and the figure stood in front of a double door that said 'comhairliamhar". It knew that the meeting of the council was likely going to end soon and it wanted to talk to some of the upper class.
**Scene Break**
21st October 1976, London (England), Ministry of Magic
Arcturus Black, the esteemed Lord Black and leader of the Dark Moderates, sat in the grand chamber of the Wizengamot, observing the proceedings with a keen eye. Today a significant event was taking place, the swearing in of Bertram Burke and Adolphus Pyrites as Lords of their respective families. The ceremony would be presided over by Albus Dumbledore, the Chief Warlock himself.
As Dumbledore stood at the podium his presence commanded the attention of the chamber and Arcturus couldn't help but feel a mix of curiosity and unease. The recent events had caused a ripple of rumours to pass among the members that had gathered here today. One of them was most distressing, House Burke would apparently join the traditionalists today and that would change the balance of power. Who would lead the Ministry aligned houses? Would more houses jump ship with House Burke? Another rumour that had been around for years and now seemingly confirmed was that Bertram had been a death eater for quite some time now. Arcturus hoped that this was not the case but that hope was small as the traditionalist looked victoriously towards Dumbledore who wasn't fazed in the slightest manner.
Bertram Burke stepped forward, his face seemingly solemn. Arcturus watched as he took the oath, his voice clear and resolute. "I, Bertram Burke, swear upon my family name and honor to uphold the values and traditions of the Ancient and Noble House of Burke. I pledge my allegiance to the Wizengamot and vow to serve our wizarding community with dignity and fairness."
The chamber responded with a mix of applause and whispers. The murmurs grew louder when Bertram continued speaking after the applause had died down „House Burke will from now on be part of the traditionalist block. We invite our allies of the Ministry faction to come with us and build a new future." And while Bertram walked to his Wizengamot seat that had magically shifted to the traditionalists Arcturus frowned, his thoughts churning as he noticed plenty of unhappy faces. The Traditionalist Block held strong views on blood purity and fiercely upheld traditional wizarding customs, even those that could be considered barbaric. The murmurs died down when Adolphus Pyrites, the only male survivor of the assault on his family home, stepped forward. If you asked Arcturus, Adolphus had been very lucky to be at his flat when the assault on the Pyrites Courthouse happened, else he likely wouldn't be alive now.
'It will be interesting to see whose influence he will fall under, he is so young he cannot possibly hope to be independent. I just hope it won't be the dark wanker" Arcturus mused to himself.
Adolphus Pyrites followed suit, his voice steady as he spoke his oath. "I, Adolphus Pyrites, swear upon the legacy of my family to uphold the principles and ideals of the Noble House of Pyrites. I pledge my loyalty to the Wizengamot and vow to safeguard the wizarding world with honor and integrity. House Pyrites will follow House Burke and will from now on be part of the Traditionalist Block. I urge my former allies of the Light Moderates and members of other blocks to reconsider their position on certain policies as the coming months and years will be important for our future. Thank you".
Adolphus walked back to his new seat ignoring the glares he got from several Lords and Ladies as if he just hadn't indirectly threatened all the other alliances. He flinched however when he saw the annoyed look Lucius Malfoy was giving him.
Arcturus's gaze shifted towards Adolphus, his brow furrowing deeper, mostly with annoyance. He had jinxed it, hadn't he?
'Well nothing I can do about it now except for dealing with the fallout' he thought.
The announcement of the new Lord Pyrites' intention to join the Traditionalist Block had raised even more eyebrows and prompted heated discussions among the members. The atmosphere in the chamber grew tense, with factions quietly aligning themselves in support or opposition to this decision.
„What do you make of this Arcturus? Are we going to change our way of doing things?" asked Eric Greengrass besides him.
„We might just have to, old friend. In anyway it has become apparent that Voldemort has stopped trying to gain the allegiance of more houses simply by diplomacy. We will all have to watch our backs now, traitors could be everywhere"
„I will keep a close eye on my son and I know most of our allies will do the same with their heirs and heiresses. What about your family though? Do you think more of your grandchildren will join Voldemort?"
„Bellatrix is already lost and Narcissa probably also is. Andromeda is married to a muggleborn so she's pretty much sure to stay away from the megalomaniac, not that she's really considered part of the family anymore thanks to Walburga. Sirius is the white sheep of the family and will likely join in the fight against him and well I think I will have to keep an eye on Regulus... well and..." said Arcturus before getting interrupted by Eric.
„And Leo and Lyra are only toddlers" Eric said while ignoring the glare he was getting from his friend.
„It would have been nice not to get interrupted but that's about right, yes"
This was the moment where Marvin chose to join the conversation. He was the link between Arcturus and Eric and the minor members of their alliance and had briefly spoken with several of them.
„Many of our allies are requesting a general meeting at either Black or Greengrass manor. What should I tell them?" asked Marvin giving Arcturus and Eric some time to think about this. But there was only one thing they could really say to that, wasn't it?
„I approve. It is time we talk about what's been happening lately, We need to plan ahead as Voldemort has just shown us, he isn't afraid to murder entire families to put one of his lackeys on the Wizengamot" said Eric feeling a little nervous while Arcturus stayed relaxed and nodded.
„I agree. I guess we should have done this a long time ago. Tell them we meet them at the end of the month. I need to talk to Headmaster Dumbledore."
„Wait what Dumbledore? And here I thought he was our political rival" asked a confused Marvin while Eric just anticipated that his ally and friend had a good explanation as the other's would not like such an action.
„We need to start working with him. I am not saying we have to suddenly vote with him on every occasion but we need to make sure we know who's going to be targeted and I think he has the most connections for that."
Eric and Marvin glanced at eachother unsure if they were for such an action or not. They could see the merit on the other hand working with Dumbledore would alieniate some of their allies and weakening their already weakened alliance was not something to be done lightly as preventing this was the entire reason to work with Dumbledore. But they knew how stubborn Arcturus could be sometimes and knew there was no deterring him in this occasion.
As the ceremony concluded, Albus saw Lord Black rising from his seat, his tall figure casting a commanding presence. Lord Black had always been an advocate for moderation, seeking balance and unity in the Wizengamot which was a noble goal but ultimately something very hard to achieve as the political divide in the Wizengamot was deep and had been ever since the war against Grindelwald. The move of both the Burke and Pyrites families to the Traditionalist Block could potentially tip the delicate balance of power within the chamber even further and Albus knew that Lord Black wanted to talk to him.
Walking with purpose, Arcturus made his way towards Dumbledore, his expression a mix of concern and determination. He intended to engage in a conversation with the Chief Warlock, expressing his reservations about the implications of this alignment and seeking to find common ground in the face of the growing power of the blood purists. While Arcturus sympathised with several of their positions he could not allow someone like Voldemort to ruin their society even further. He just hoped Dumbledore would see reason as it was up to individuals like them to steer the course, ensuring that the voices of moderation and progress were not overshadowed by extremism.
As he approached Dumbledore, Arcturus prepared to engage in a dialogue that would shape the future of the wizarding world, searching for a path forward that would foster unity, understanding, and progress.
End of Chapter
An overview of the Wizengamot as of September 1976:
Electory Seat(e): +1
Heridetary Seat: +2
Noble : Peverell (+1 vote) ; Most Noble : Peverell(+3 votes)
Ancient: Peverell(+2 votes) ; Most Ancient: Peverell (+5 votes)
For Example: If the Most Ancient and Most Noble House of Slytherin had an heir that suddenly came from somewhere it would have +2+3+5 so 10 votes
Unaffiliated:
Zabini, Parkinson, Ollivander, Patil, McCormack, Hemlock(e), Stonehorn(e), Perks, Copplestone(e), Greenford(e), Johnson(e), Spinnet(e), Accrington, Harlemshake(e), Slughorn, Runcorn, Wilkes, Gibbon, Lowe, Higgs, Cornfoot, Scamander, Lovegood, Robins(e), Jones(e), Copperfield(e)
→ The Unaffiliates share 83 votes between them
Progressives:
Potter, Longbottom, Prewett, Dumbledore, MacGonagall, Weasley(e), Moody, Shacklebolt, Wintringham, McKinley, Wood, Tripe, Sinistra(e), Vector(e), MacDougal, Kettleburn(e), Bell(e)
→ The Progressives share 62 votes between them
Light Moderates:
Bones, McKinnon, Abbott, Diggory(e), Silverling, Firewheel, Chang(e), Bletchley, Bagnold(e)
→ The Light Moderates share 28 votes between them
Ministry Supporters:
Crouch, Brocklehurst(e), Brown, Douglas, MacLaggen, Goldstein, Umbridge(e), Prince, Dawlish, Edgecombe, Minchum(e), Scrimgeour(e),
→ The Ministry Supporters share 32 votes between them, together with the Ministry seats they have 69 votes at their disposal
True Moderates:
Sayre, Ruslanovich, Blackstream, Serpengold, Montague, Thicknesse
→ The True Moderates share 30 votes between them
Dark Moderates:
Black,Greengrass, MacMillan, Rubisheart, Flint, Bulstrode(e), Selwyn, Travers(e), Avery, Yaxley, Trembley(e), Orpington(e), Fudge(e), Max
→ The Dark Moderates share 56 votes between them
Traditionalists:
Burke, Malfoy, Lestrange, Fawley, Rosier, Rowle, Carrow(e), Goyle, Crabbe, Nott, Mulciber, Pyrites, Dolohov(e), MacNair, Rockwood(e)
→ The Traditionalists share 73 votes between them
Ministerial Seats :
Minister of Magic: 8 votes
Chief Warlock: 5 votes
Senior Advisor to the Minister: 5 votes
Senior Undersecretary: 3 votes
Head of Department of Magical Law Enforcement: 3 votes
Head of Department of Mysteries: 3 votes
Head of Department of Magical Education: 2 votes
Head of Department of Magical Research: 2 votes
Head of Department of Magical Accidents...: 2 votes
Head of Department for R. and C. of Magical Creatures: 1 vote
Head of Department of Intern. Mag. Cooperation: 1 vote
Head of Department of Magical Transport: 1 vote
Head of Department of Magical Games and Sports: 1 vote
→ All in All the Ministry has 37 votes available.
Note that they generally always vote as one block as doing not so could cost the Department Heads them their position
Because I like statistics,
Houses and the amounts of votes they have:
Please keep in mind that I have no idea yet who the heads of departments are, the only one I know of is Crouch Sr. being the head of the DMLE
Burke : 10 votes
Crouch : 5 votes
Zabini, : 7 votes
Parkinson, : 5 votes
Ollivander, : 8 votes
Brocklehurst, : 1 vote
Brown, : 3 votes
Patil, : 3 votes
Douglas, : 3 votes
McCormack, : 4 votes
MacLaggen, : 4 votes
Goldstein, : 3 votes
Umbridge, : 1 vote
Prince, : 4 votes
Hemlock, : 2 votes
Stonehorn, : 2 votes
Perks, : 3 votes
Dawlish, : 3 votes
Edgecombe, : 3 votes
Minchum, : 1 vote
Copplestone, : 1 vote
Greenford, : 1 vote
Scrimgeour, : 2 votes
Johnson, : 1 vote
Spinnet, : 1 vote
Accrington, : 3 votes
Harlemshake, : 1 vote
Slughorn, : 3 votes
Runcorn, : 4 votes
Wilkes, : 3 votes
Gibbon, : 3 votes
Lowe, : 4 votes
Higgs, : 4 votes
Cornfoot, : 3 votes
Scamander, : 5 votes
Lovegood, : 4 votes
Robins, : 1 vote
Jones : 1 vote
Copperfield : 2 votes
Potter, : 8 votes
Longbottom, : 7 votes
Prewett, : 5 votes
Dumbledore, : 5 votes
MacGonagall, : 4 votes
Weasley, : 1 vote
Moody, : 4 votes
Shacklebolt, : 3 votes
Wintringham, : 7 votes
McKinley, : 4 votes
Wood, : 3 votes
Tripe, : 3 votes
Sinistra, : 1 vote
Vector, : 1 vote
MacDougal, : 4 votes
Kettleburn, : 1 vote
Bell : 1 vote
Bones, : 8 votes
McKinnon, : 5 votes
Abbott, : 3 votes
Diggory, : 1 vote
Silverling, : 3 votes
Firewheel, : 4 votes
Chang, : 1 vote
Bletchley, : 4 votes
Pyrites, : 3 votes
Bagnold : 1 vote
Sayre, : 10 votes
Ruslanovich, : 5 votes
Blackstream, : 5 votes
Serpengold, : 4 votes
Montague, : 3 votes
Thicknesse,: 3 votes
Black, : 10 votes
Greengrass, : 8 votes
MacMillan : 7 votes
Rubisheart, : 3 votes
Flint, : 4 votes
Bulstrode, : 1 vote
Selwyn, : 7 votes
Travers, : 1 vote
Avery, : 4 votes
Yaxley, : 5 votes
Trembley, : 1 vote
Orpington, : 1 vote
Fudge, : 1 vote
Max : 3 votes
Malfoy, : 7 votes
Lestrange, : 8 votes
Fawley, : 8 votes
Rosier, : 4 votes
Rowle, : 3 votes
Carrow, : 2 votes
Goyle, : 4 votes
Crabbe, : 4 votes
Nott, : 7 votes
Mulciber, : 4 votes
Dolohov, : 2 votes
MacNair, : 5 votes
Rockwood : 2 votes