The Centaur's Shrine

Chapter 16 - Order of Merlin

Hogwarts,

The new school term had started with a definite return to normalcy. It was as if the teachers took deliberate pain to treat them as mere students once again, as if nothing exceptional had happened in the last year and a half. The most important subject was classes, homework, and for those concerned: OWLs and NEWTs. Few rebelled against this. It was actually a reassuring development after all. A sign that the deadly menace they had lived under was truly gone.

The relations between the Houses were still excellent, but the traditional competition between Gryffindor and Slytherin for the House Cup, and especially the Quidditch Cup, was reasserting itself. Ron was determined to win it once more, and he drove the Gryffindor team mercilessly. He urged Harry to practice his Seeker skill as much as he could, and even McGonagall made a number of pointed remarks on how she was counting on them.

On the first day, Draco took aside Wilhelm Dalmy, the seventh year Slytherin captain, to explain the new situation and make sure that he understood the stakes. The older boy looked at the determined prefect with some surprise. Draco hadn't shown much interest in Quidditch during the first term, but now, he sounded as obsessed as a Weasley.

"You're the captain, not me, so I'm letting you handle the rest of the team. I expect you to hold out your own score-wise and to help me catch the Snitch before Harry."

Wilhelm was unsure about what he meant by that exactly. In the old days, they would have used all possible dirty tricks against the Gryffindors, but at the start of year Draco had specifically insisted that they 'play fair' and win on merit. Then again, his girl was a Chaser in the opposing team. How would he react if she was taken out with a vicious Bludger?

"How rough do you want to play it?" he asked carefully.

Draco frowned, annoyed at having to explain everything.

"No fouls, but don't pull any punches either. This is a game I don't want us to lose, or to be disqualified for."

The other boy grimaced. That's easy for him to say. As if there was a clear line between hard play and foul.

"Okay. We'll try our best," he said.

"No," replied Draco in a hard voice. "You'll do your best, and then some more. Just like I will."

Wilhelm looked back with anger in his eyes. You arrogant prick! All right, we'll do our damnest, but if you don't catch the bloody Snitch then, head prefect or not, I won't let you tell me my job ever again.

Draco returned his stare without flinching. Good. He's angry and that will make him work the team harder. He left the room, making a mental note to have a separate word with Vincent and Gregory. The two big boys would need special coaching as usual.

- - -

Amid the new order of things at Hogwarts, the change in professor Snape's potion classes was the most troubling of all. His remarks were as scathing as ever when gross manipulation mistakes were made, but he now took a much closer interest in the characteristics of any failed brews, and he would ask the strangest questions about what the pupil was actually thinking at the time. He would press on and dismiss any lies or evasion, until the wretched victim was finally made to confess the usually embarrassing truth. Ron was thus several times forced to admit to thinking about his girlfriend, or Quidditch practice. Harry was reminded of his old Occlumency lesson with the professor. He didn't think that Snape was using Legimency, he wasn't actually casting any spell at least, but it was troubling nonetheless. Whatever the method, or the reason for this new behavior, the end result was even more humiliating than his old insults, even if he only took out a fair amount of points for every error.

"Brewing a potion is not a mindless activity," Snape often would repeat. "Just as what happens when you use your wand, the thoughts in your mind are as important as the gestures that you make."

This was something that he had never told them before. It was first met with widespread skepticism until Neville decided, with Hermione's help, to give it a real try. Potions had never been an easy subject for him, even when he took pain to do everything as perfectly as possible. If professor Snape's new theory was true, then one possible explanation could be his permanent fear of failure and admonishment. It took several tries but a definite improvement was finally seen. It got Neville his first ever gain of points for Gryffindor in potions. Professor Snape looked visibly pleased, which everyone found even more remarkable than the actual knowledge demonstrated.

Not everybody was happy however. Ron was more annoyed than ever because it meant that he couldn't even afford to daydream in class again.

"I think I liked it better when he was just a nasty git," he said, grumbling as they left the classroom.

"What are you saying?" exclaimed Hermione. "That was the best potion class we ever had. It must be the result of the work he did with Helen. It's brilliant."

"Maybe," replied Ron, "But at least, he was staying out of our heads before. Now we don't even have any privacy anymore."

"I don't see what the problem is," she replied. "All you have to do is think about potions when you're brewing one. It's not that difficult."

"For you it isn't. My mind doesn't work that way."

"Sometimes, I think your mind doesn't work at all," she retorted.

Ron looked at Harry for support but his friend laughed and made a slashing gesture, followed by the symbolic rolling of a head on the ground, indicating who had won the argument in his opinion.

- - -

Hagrid was going to Beauxbaton. The news was now official and he was being replaced by a new professor, a witch named Tilly McMurphy. They would share the class for a couple of weeks and then the big man would be gone. Physically, she looked a little like professor Sprouts, with the same outdoor friendly face, and a straightforward attitude in practical matters. Like Hagrid, she didn't hesitate to get her hands dirty and handle the most repugnant of animals. However, she was much closer to professor McGonagall when it came to discipline. The opinions of the students were mixed. She was certainly a more structured teacher than Hagrid, but she was anything but amusing, and her sense of humor had yet to be seen.

On the second day of the term, as the first year class was finishing, the students were surprised to see the Headmaster coming down toward the big man's hut, next to where the Care Of Magical Creature lessons still took place. Professor Dumbledore greeted everybody pleasantly and took Hagrid aside for a talk. The two men went into the hut for privacy, but Richard, Silena and Alicia couldn't resist the chance to sneak in on their conversation. They gathered their books and moved discreetly behind the house, stopping just under the window sill. The panes were opened despite the winter cold, and they could hear perfectly everything that was said inside.

"Rubeus, I have a small favor to ask of you."

"Anything yeh need, Headmaster," replied Hagrid with deference. "How about a hot cup of tea?"

"No thank you, Rubeus, however ... I might let myself be tempted by a spoonful of honey." Cutlery sounds were heard, followed by a sigh of pleasure. "Ah, thank you. Delicious as usual. Those fairy-bees of yours are simply wonderful. Now where was I? Ah yes. Are you aware that Firenze has gone back to the Forest?"

"I dinna know that!" exclaimed the big man. "I'd noticed that he wasn't visible 'em last days, but I had no idea ... Did they take him back?" he asked anxiously.

"Yes they did. I was actually present at the time, and Bane was convinced to accept him. A most felicitous outcome, even if our four legged friends are still very uptight about interacting with humans. That is the reason for my presence. Could I count on you to return to Firenze those things which he left in his rooms?"

"Certainly, Headmaster. No trouble at all. I'll be back with yeh ter get the stuff, an' then I'll get on with it this mornin'."

"Good, good. That will be fine then, many thanks."

"Fancy another spoon of honey, sir?"

"I really shouldn't, but I suppose it can't really do any harm. Ah, thank you." The three friends grinned at each other as they pictured the old professor indulging in his widely known vice. When they heard the two men leaving the hut, they moved away and immediately started whispering among themselves.

"What rotten luck," said Richard. "I was so much hoping to get lessons from a Centaur."

"This could be the last chance to see him," pondered Alicia. The beginning of a plan was slowly forming in her head.

"What do you mean?"

"We don't have any classes for the next hour. Why don't we give Hagrid a hand in moving professor Firenze's things, and then go with him into the Forest?"

"Are you mad?" exclaimed Richard. "This is the Forbidden Forest we're talking about. It's the most dangerous place around here!"

She didn't look daunted.

"Come on. Many people tried it, and nobody ever got hurt in years. What's more, if Hagrid is with us, we won't be in any danger at all."

The two Slytherins reluctantly agreed that if the gamekeeper could be convinced, then it would be worth a try. The question remained of how to make him accept their presence.

"Better not ask him straight away," proposed Richard. "Alicia you talk to him first. Offer to help him carry some stuff, then when we're outside the school, Silena, you'll ask if we can go with him."

"Why me?" asked Silena.

"Because he's big and you're small and cute," he said very seriously.

"Well thanks for the compliment," said Alicia, outraged "What am I then?"

"She's smaller than you," he replied, wisely leaving aside the matter of which girl was cutest. "Come on, this is just tactics," he added impatiently.

Alicia stuck out her tongue at him, but she didn't make an issue of it. They ran back to the castle, to find Hagrid lugging a large chest and various assorted luggage.

"Hagrid! Can we help you?" called out Alicia.

"Well, look who's here. Aren't yeh supposed ter be in classes?" he asked with a friendly smile.

The big man was very popular with most young students, especially the ones from Muggle backgrounds, who always felt a little isolated in the beginning. He could empathize with that more than any teacher, and he certainly wasn't stuffy about rules or decorum. Outside of classes, no one ever called him 'professor Hagrid', and he was always ready to discuss magical lore and animals with anyone. He also had a special soft place in his hearts for Gryffindors, and he and Alicia had gotten very well along from the start.

"We don't have any right now. Do you want us to put a levitation spell of that?" she said, indicating the heavy chest.

Hagrid looked at it and fingered his umbrella. He wasn't allowed to do magic, although he did it often when no one was looking. Then again, he wasn't very good at charms. He usually made things explode more often than not.

"Er, I Don't see why not. Yea, might be a good idea." The chest wasn't as sturdy as a human one. It was mostly a big animal skin bag reinforced with sticks.

"Locomotor trunk!"

The container floated gently in the air. This was really the best of spell when moving out luggage. It was too bad that the under-age limitation restricted it at home. Hagrid attached a piece of rope to one handle and took the rest of the bags in one big hand. They proceeded toward the limits of the Forest. Just as they were getting there, Silena used her most charming voice to ask him the loaded question.

"Hagrid, can we go into the Forest with you?"

"What? Oh no, yer can't. Strictly off limits, it is." He was adamant.

"Hagrid please," said Alicia. "We'll stay real close to you."

"I've never spoken with a Centaur," added Silena in a plaintive voice," and now that professor Firenze won't be coming back, and since you'll be leaving to, I may not get the chance before a long time."

"Now listen-" he began in a firm voice.

"It's true Hagrid," said Richard very seriously. "I don't think that professor McMurphy will ever show us really interesting creatures like you do. We may never see another Centaur again."

"But-"

"You're our last hope Hagrid," pleaded Alicia, batting her eyelashes.

They could see that his resolve was weakening. It was not their feeble arguments which won him over so much as their evident desire to see the Forest. It took a few more minutes, but he finally gave in. Actually he sympathized with them, and he did fear that his successor would limit herself to a conservative teaching of his favorite subject. Probably won't teach 'em anything that couldn't be gotten from books. So in the end, he allowed them to follow him, provided that they keep it a secret, and promise not to stray away.

They marched into the woods to a spot where Hagrid stopped. Placing his hands around his mouth, he let out a long cooing howl. All the forest sounds around them stopped. He did it once again and turned his head to look around.

"And now what?" whispered Alicia.

"Now we wait. Firenze should come presently. Now since yeh're here to learn, let me explain to yeh how to greet him."

He gave them a quick course in the appropriate etiquette, stressing the need not to ask inquisitive questions.

"They're very touchy about their secrets, so mind yer manners."

They didn't have to wait long. Little more than a minute later, there was the sound of rustling leaves and two Centaurs advanced toward them. Richard recognized the former professor. The other figure was much smaller, and he realized that it was a child. His mane and skin were much lighter in color, and he carried a small pouch on a string around his neck. Both had bows and quivers full of arrows.

"That's Flitz," said Hagrid to them. "Firenze's son. I remember him when he was no bigger than a puppy."

"Blessings to you, Hagrid," called out Firenze. He considered the three children and frowned. Flitz stared with unabashed curiosity. The older Centaur was surprised when, taking their lead after Hagrid, Richard and the two girls greeted them using the proper address.

"They've been helping me carry yer things," explained Hagrid with a big smile.

Firenze acknowledged this and inclined his head toward the trio in thanks. He and Hagrid moved aside to discuss something out of their hearing, leaving the four youths together. Flitz supposed that they shared the same privileged access of the Forest that was Hagrid's, and therefore that the usual warnings about keeping away from humans didn't apply to them.

"What is your name?" he asked in a friendly manner. He was a little taller than them, but not by much. Actually their age was about the same when adjusted for the difference in species.

"I'm Richard, that's Alicia, my sister, and this is Silena," replied Richard. "We're students at the school."

"Are you wizards?" he said with some concern. He looked at his father in alarm, but Firenze acted as if there was nothing threatening.

"Well, yes," answered Alicia. "Is that a problem?"

Flitz grimaced and shrugged.

"I don't know. I was told to stay away from your kind." He looked closely at them and took in the wands they were holding in their hand, pointed downward. Alicia noticed his glance and stored her wand in a pocket. The two others did the same.

"Funny that you should say that. We were warned not to go into the Forest." She giggled. "It's supposed to be full of dangerous animals and things."

The young Centaur smiled at that, and then he thought about his encounter of not so long ago and reflected that there was certainly some truth in that.

"Is that a real bow?" asked Richard, pointing toward the one on the young Centaur's back.

"Of course," Flitz replied proudly. "I made it myself."

"Do you hunt with it?" asked Silena.

"Yes. I even killed a demon with it two days ago."

"A demon?"

He showed them the talon finger which he kept in his pouch, and now always carried around his neck as a reminder of his first battle.

"A stone thing which attacked me. I was wounded and the one who is your master of head, came and healed me."

"The Headmaster?"

"Yes."

Flitz gave them a short account of what had happened, not thinking for a minute that it could be sensitive information. The three students didn't think much of it either. Magical beasts or demons, it was all part of their world and they were too young to understand the important differences. They continued to exchange stories about bits and pieces of their respective lives, each finding the other's world fascinating, if very strange. After a while Richard looked at his watch and realized that they would have to go back, if they didn't want to miss the next class.

"We've got to be going. It was nice meeting you."

"Yes. Will you be coming back?"

"We'd like to, but we're not allowed to go into the forest by ourselves, and Hagrid will be going away." Richard made a helpless gesture. "Could you come near to the school?"

Flitz grimaced and replied that this was forbidden to him as well. Once again he looked at his father. He could ask, but he knew that it was a delicate subject.

"Could we meet at the Forest's edge?" proposed Alicia. "After nightfall, so no one would see us?"

Flitz agreed, and they determined that they would try to be at the limit of the Forest, near Hagrid's hut, in two days. The Centaur gave them a time based on what the stars would look like, but it didn't mean anything to them. Richard tried to explain the concept of dividing the day into twenty four hours but that was just as alien to the Centaur. In the end he gave his new friend his watch, and drew him a picture of what the timepiece would show at 10 PM. Flitz looked at the object with interest.

"Is that a wizard thing?" he asked.

"No. It's a Muggle watch. It's mechanical." As he looked at it again he saw that the next class had already started, and that they were surely going to get into trouble. "We'll explain it to you next time, all right?"

"Yes." He placed it inside his pouch. "Next time I will bring you something."

Richard held out his hand to the young Centaur who looked curiously at it. The human custom of shaking hands was explained, there was no equivalent among Centaurs. Flitz thought it another strange thing about his new friends, but he didn't see anything wrong with it. He shook hands with each, a little awkwardly.

It took some more time to get Hagrid to take them back to the school. They were indeed very late for their next class, and it cost Gryffindor ten points and Slytherin twenty. They were lucky not to get detention as well, but professor Flitwick was in a good mood.

In any case, they felt that it had been worth it to find another friend.

- - -

Auror Academy,

The big day finally arrived. The Order of Merlin ceremony was planned for the evening. Among the students. Only the Six would be going. The Ministry had initially wanted to invite everyone, but Dumbledore had vetoed it because it would be too much of a distraction. Actually the Headmaster wasn't happy at all with Fudge's latest initiative, all the more so that he couldn't really express it in public. After all what could be more normal than to promote Arthur Weasley.

Except that he did not consult me, and he lied about it.

So Dumbledore said nothing but his unusual unhappy expression caused several whispered remarks among his entourage.

The Auror Academy was a fortified mansion lost in the Scottish highlands. It was smaller than Hogwarts, and not as spectacular. Otherwise its isolation served the same purpose. To train young wizards and witches in a quiet environment. The guests Apparated in the courtyard and were led inside by the Auror trainees. The actual ceremony would take place in the Hall of Honor, a large and imposing room decorated by the usual medieval weaponry and several paintings of famous Aurors, all dressed in tartans and kilts. Harry was surprised to discover that the Aurors official uniforms were based on the traditional Scottish dress code, and included bagpipes as well. He was still trying to get the image of Mad Eye Moody, in a kilt and playing the pipes, out of his mind.

There was a great deal of people, all dressed up in fine and extravagant robes. Harry recognized several whom he had met at the Ministry or from the Order. Everyone applauded as the six of them entered the hall.

Electra moved silently among the many guests, taking care not to attract attention. Undisguised, she was a strikingly beautiful woman, and she usually played on her considerable charisma and power to captivate and influence others. A witch of fifty five, she barely looked thirty and few men, be they wizards or Muggles, would let her pass by without at least following her with their eyes. More so here because very few people knew her. She rarely came to England, preferring to stay in her native Austria.

Tonight however, she had dressed and arranged herself so as to be as unremarkable as possible. She planned to stay in the background and keep away from the more popular guests. Today was not a time to display her charms, but an occasion to use her other, less visible, talents.

Hermione Granger felt the first signs of unease when she saw the impressive assembly of wizards and witches waiting for them. It was much more civilized than the popular welcome that they had received at the train station, but somehow it was also more imposing for her.

She looked around and saw that her friends didn't seem to share her nervousness, except maybe for Harry. Analyzing this, she reasoned that it had to be something cultural. Draco and even Ron were being honored by their peers, and they expected it. Once again, she was made aware that they naturally belonged in this world while she was a still newcomer. Harry probably felt like her, but he was the only one who did not realize that nobody disputed his position anymore.

She understood that she would not face simple folks who just wanted to acclaim the heroes of the day. These were important peoples, and they evidently considered themselves superior to most others. It showed in their attitudes, and in the magnificent clothes, jewels and elaborate accessories. This was the hard core of the wizard world. They had come to judge as much as to honor.

How many out there are thinking 'Mudblood' when they look at me? Or who simply put me up as Harry Potter's girl?

It was probably ridiculous but she imagined these thoughts behind the sea of faces. Her hand reached out and squeezed Harry's. He looked at her and smiled reassuringly.

Severus did not feel uneasy at all, at least no more than he usually did in such large company. In fact he was looking forward to seeing some of the people he had already met at the Parkinsons. Professor Boocrat for instance was a highly respected scholar, and he had a lot of influence in the Ministry Department of Mysteries. Severus walked in with confidence and nodded at and greeted politely those he knew. He was relaxing in the company of one the Academy professors, the conversation alternating between the DADA NEWT curriculum and some specialized usage of potions, when he recognized a familiar figure coming into the room with the Weasleys.

Helen! What is she doing here?

She saw him as well and waved from across the hall. As soon as he decently could, he disengaged from his conversation partner and walked toward her. She did the same and they met in the middle of the room.

"Good evening, Severus."

"What-" He caught himself. "Good evening, Helen. What are you doing here?"

"Harry and Hermione told me about this. The Weasleys brought me along." She frowned. "Aren't you happy to see me?"

"Yes, I-" He tried to analyze what he was feeling. He was glad to see her certainly, but he was also reticent to do so in this company.

What's the matter Severus? Are you ashamed that your new relations will see you with a Muggle?

That was certainly present in his mind at some level. Such prejudice had after all been ingrained in him by his education, independently of his intellectual position about the subject. He saw Helen's face twist into a frown, and a sudden guilt filled him.

"I am very happy to see you again Helen," he said gently, holding out firmly to the thought. "I am just surprised, that is all."

"Why didn't you tell me about this?" she replied. "You could have invited me yourself." He could sense a hint of hurt in her voice. He grimaced and waved at the rest of the audience.

"I didn't think you'd be interested," he tried to sound nonchalant. "It is not a school matter after all."

"Severus," she replied seriously. "I'm not just interested in the school, or in the children. I came to see you. To see my friend honored."

Her words touched him, and he was surprised at his reaction. This and the lingering sense of guilt made him even more uncomfortable. He would have normally dismissed the matter with a gruff comment but he couldn't do that anymore. He remembered their last meeting, and the strange, curiously pleasant moment of vulnerability they had shared. In a rare moment of empathy, he found that really didn't want her to feel hurt.

"I am truly sorry, Helen," he said lamely. "Please believe that I am glad that you are here." He tried to put the truth of these words into a smile. It must have been somewhat successful because she smiled back and touched his arm briefly.

"It's all right. No harm done." She winked, her cheerful nature coming back. "So you're a hero too?"

He rolled his eyes.

"I guess so."

"Good for you then." A near movement caught their eyes and they turned toward the source as Dumbledore joined them.

"Mrs. Parker, I believe," said the Headmaster pleasantly. "We have never met, but I am delighted to make your acquaintance." He took her hand and kissed it with old-fashioned decorum. Severus realized that it was his role to make to introduction.

"Helen, this is Albus Dumbledore, the Headmaster of Hogwarts," he said. "Sir." He shrugged. "You have indeed recognized Helen Parker, with whom I have had the pleasure to work recently."

"Very happy to meet you Headmaster. Alicia and Richard have told me a lot about you. They are very enthusiastic about the school."

"I am truly glad to hear that, Mrs. Parker. I seem to recall that they are doing rather well." He turned toward Severus, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "I have followed with great interest what the two of you have discovered together. I anticipate huge benefits from it, and I congratulate you both for such brilliant cooperation."

The words of praise made Severus more proud than many things he had done, especially so since several people around them had been discretely following their conversation. They would wonder what it was about exactly, but they would not forget that the most powerful wizard of the age, and one of the most knowledgeable, had paid Severus Snape and his unknown companion, a most eloquent compliment. Words of this would get around and it would do no harm. He did not imagine any other meanings in the old man's words.

The Headmaster stayed with them a little more and when he left, Severus thought that, all things considered, Helen's presence was a very good thing, and when he looked at her, and at the happiness on her face, he found that it wasn't just because of his rising reputation.

"Can I get you a drink?"

"With pleasure."

Electra was carefully sounding out the emotional atmosphere of the room, giving it her total attention. Outwardly, she was talking with her pre-arranged companion, a junior member of the Brotherhood who had no idea who she was, and whose mission was to guarantee her cover. The poor man was close enough to her to be aware of some of her very real charms, and he babbled stupidly about every subject he could think of, desperately trying to elicit a response from her. She ignored him and widened her mental probes. She had to be very cautious. Many people in this room were adept at Legimency. One was a true Empath, although an inexperienced one, and then there was Albus Dumbledore, whom she hated but who was never to be underestimated.

The first order of business was therefore mental camouflage. She began to play upon the weakest persons in the room. Shrummer had compiled for her an extensive catalogue of the rivalries of many of them, and she was now amplifying them subtly, by undetectable increments, playing her victims against each other. While doing this she kept her eyes on Luna Lovegood, using her as a measurement of her success. The Scholar had explained the blind spots of an Empath, and it did not fail. The young girl's expression got noticeably dreamy as she isolated herself from the charged emotional environment. The heart of Electra's companion quickened when she flashed a sudden smile, but it wasn't directed at him. She prepared herself for more precise tinkering.

Fudge's speech, and the ones that followed, did nothing to allay Hermione's reservations. The many references to 'the tradition of fine wizard lines' and 'the spirit of our founders' were followed by much more enthusiastic clapping than when Dumbledore praised the spirit of cooperation among the school Houses and the diversity of the students. She also sensed an indistinct hostility in the overall atmosphere and it bothered her. She stole a quick glance at Luna, who would surely be aware of anything abnormal, but her friend only showed a peaceful expression. For a while she told herself that she was seeing things, although as time passed she felt it ever more, and her discomfort mounted.

The Order of Merlin was a great big gold medal, evidently enchanted since it radiated multicolored lights. She thought it was the gaudiest thing she had ever seen, but she wasn't surprised since she had long since remarked that discretion and finesse was not the most evident quality of wizards. One had only to look at the way they dressed.

Professor Snape and Harry were the last to go. Harry showed a boyish smile while Snape tried hard not to look too smug. Fudge was as expansive as ever as he slipped the ribbon around his neck.

"I recall promising you this some years ago professor," said the Minister. "Better late than never, hey?"

Harry looked stricken. That occasion had been when Snape had almost 'arrested' Sirius Black, just before he and Hermione had saved him. How could the man have the gall to say such a thing? He felt a blind rage engulf him and the medal lurched wildly, jerking from Fudge's hands and banging painfully on his forearm. Realizing where he was, Harry made a tremendous effort to control himself.

Snape's face was unreadable, but his voice was chilling.

"I would rather say, better in a good cause than for a mistake, Minister."

Fudge's expression fell as he realized his blunder. He cast a fearful glance at Harry and saw the white fury on the boy's face.

"Hum... Oh yes, quite so... Hum. Much more proper this way, certainly."

Hermione was outraged. This oaf did not even remember that he signed the order restoring Sirius' innocence. How can we expect anything right to be done when someone like that is in charge?

For his part Fudge looked completely lost.

Great Merlin! What possessed me to say such a thing?

He knew that he needed the support of the boy and of his friends. That kind of remark could well spell his undoing. He looked timidly at Dumbledore and cringed as he saw the hard stare on the man's face.

No one else in the audience seemed to have noticed exactly what had happened, but they could all feel the sudden increase in tension. Electra looked away and smiled again. This miserable excuse for a Minister was so easy to manipulate. That last had been a masterstroke: his position would now be even more vulnerable, the Headmaster would be on him like a hound, and the Granger girl would probably not stop seething until the end of the ceremony.

Fudge's final, half incoherent speech was hurriedly delivered to a room buzzing with whispered conversation. The chief of protocol attempted to repair the situation in the only way he could think of, by accelerating the distribution of food and drink to everyone. Electra watched as the Weasley family regrouped, and as another one of her agents skillfully guided Sir Comil toward them. She moved closer to eavesdrop on their conversation.

"Miss Weasley, let me offer my most heartfelt congratulations," said the broom maker with a wide smile.

Ginny turned around and spotted the man and his wife. Greetings were exchanged, and Sir Comil's jolly banter soon dispelled the bitter impression of the past minutes. The conversation revolved about Quidditch of course, and it soon turned around to the coming school match.

"You do remember that the game is planned in two weeks' time, sir?" pointed out Draco, ignoring the hard stares from Ginny and Ron. He didn't say anymore but he was evidently wondering when his promised broom would be available. Sir Comil was reassuring.

"Just a little delay," he replied, raising his hand. "Nothing has changed and you will receive it before the end of the week." He smiled genially. "My best people have been tuning it up like a fine instrument. You will not be disappointed."

Electra had been informed of the arrangement, and she had also noted the Weasley family's passionate history with the game. She herself did not care a wit for such childish activity, but she had been quick to see how to use it for her purpose, especially since the Weasley boy had been telling reporters that he was hesitating between pursuing his career as an Auror or as Quidditch player.

Let me help you choose.

"You know sir," said Ron, "this is going to be a great publicity stunt for Nimbus Flyware."

"Well I certainly hope so," said the man happily.

"I mean," continued Ron, "your latest broom against the best Seeker in a century." He gave Draco a sly look and ignored the returned scowl. "Everyone will be watching this."

"But the match can also be won by overwhelming scoring," objected Comil.

"Not this time," countered the young man, warming up to the argument. He gave a short and concise description of the two team's strengths and weaknesses and concluded. "This game will be decided by the Seekers, and it's been arranged to be as spectacular as possible. Whether or not Slytherin or Gryffindor wins, everyone is going to watch their every move."

Sir Comil nodded. The boy knew what he was talking about, and he certainly had a good sense of the game. By experience he could tell the true fanatics from the mere enthusiasts. An idea came into his mind. He did not even suspect it wasn't entirely his.

"I think I agree with you, young man. But you know. It might be just a beginning," he said with a measuring stare.

Ron sensed something was coming. Ginny looked sharply at the man.

"Yes?"

"I cannot do anything for the coming game, but something tells me that you will keep on playing yourself." Ron nodded vigorously. The man turned toward Draco. "While you, I think, are mostly anxious to prove a point. You are not planning to make a career in Quidditch?" Draco acknowledged the fact cautiously. "I thought as much." Sir Comil turned back toward Ron and considered him attentively. "Well, in that case Mister Weasley, would you consider continuing the promotion of our product line?"

Ron tried not to show how eager he was.

"Why not?" he replied. He affected a nonchalant shrug, but his eyes were shining like stars.

The boy is certainly not as talented when it comes to negotiation, thought Comil.

"Of course I wouldn't want you to be distracted from your studies," he said thoughtfully. "Perhaps this is something we should talk about after your graduation?"

"No!" A look of panic came across Ron's features. Who could say what anybody would remember in two years time? Ginny couldn't suppress a giggle at her brother's embarrassment. "I mean, now is a really good time but-"

"Oh, come on Ron, you're hopeless," she interrupted. She turned a serious face toward the older man. "Sir Comil. Will you please allow me to speak on his behalf?"

"Well, well. Would you be his agent then?" asked Comil, barely concealing his amusement.

"I would," she replied seriously. Ron scowled furiously but he did not correct her.

They moved away from the crowd to continue the discussion in private. Electra only stayed in listening range long enough to make sure that things were moving along properly. Looking around, she saw that Draco was now firmly in hand with Shrummer and Trevor, and that Potter and Granger were standing slightly apart from the rest. The girl had a hard stubborn look on her face, and he was speaking quietly to her. It wouldn't do at all for them to get a proper grip on the situation, but she couldn't risk intervening directly. Young as they were, they had shown exceptional talents and they had been trained in the mental arts by masters. If any of them discovered her manipulations, all would be lost. Thankfully there were other ways.

"Let it go Mione," said Harry. "He's a jerk but we knew it before." He reached out to caress her arm gently. She didn't let herself be placated.

"It's not just that. This whole thing is ... repellent. Most of these people are just a bunch of snobs." She was as agitated as he'd ever seen her. "They're a perfect illustration of what's wrong with this world."

At that point a group of people, led a woman, approached them, and more specifically Harry, while Dumbledore did the same, coming from the other side.

"You are likely correct, Miss Granger, but you will not change it in a day, or even a year," whispered the Headmaster.

"Good evening Mister Potter," said the leading woman with some awkwardness. "Oh Merlin, you really look so much like him." she exclaimed.

"Uh?" said Harry turning around. The woman was dressed in the same tartan and kilt uniform as the other Aurors. She looked to be in her thirties, not very tall, and with a bright eager face. The rest of the group was dressed the same, but they were much younger.

"Please allow me to present myself. I'm Emily Tumbles, section leader at the Academy," she turned toward the others, "and these are my charges. Headmaster Dumbledore, Miss Granger. Very pleased to meet you."

Hermione returned the greeting and considered her critically.

"You're a instructor here," she stated.

"That is correct." She turned toward Harry, looking raptly at his face. Hermione was already beginning to dislike her. "I knew your father very well. We were in the same class."

Harry practically turned his back on Hermione and Dumbledore as he began to press her for details. The Auror trainees listened in silent fascination as Emily recounted some anecdotes. It developed that James Potter had made an interesting reputation for himself here as well.

"Would you like to visit the school? I could show you your father's old room," she proposed.

Harry barely took leave of the others as he followed the Aurors into the building.

"Well that was to be expected I guess," Hermione muttered to herself. "The hero worshiping goes on, and I get left standing there." She turned toward Dumbledore who was looking at her with some concern. "Please forgive my bad humor, Headmaster. I suppose I should be grateful for what I have and patient for the rest?"

He nodded gravely.

"You have said it most aptly, my dear. I am afraid that patience is indeed the most necessary of things right now."

"But-"

"Please excuse me, Hermione," he interrupted. His gaze fixed on a point behind her shoulder. "We will talk about this later, but right now, there is someone else I must see."

He moved away and she saw him make a bee line toward the Minister. She returned to her silent simmering when Draco and Ginny joined her, accompanied by a big, portly man and a young, very handsome wizard.

"Hermione, this is Lord Shrummer and Trevor Themis, which I've told you about," said Draco. "Sir, this is Hermione Granger."

She turned toward the two men. In her present state of mind, Themis displayed what she took as the phony smile of a con man, and Shrummer seemed full of his own importance. She greeted them politely, reminding herself that this was important.

"So, I finally get to meet the brightest student of Hogwarts," said Shrummer with a tone she found a little condescending. What could she reply to that? "Your reputation is quite remarkable."

For a Muggle born you mean, I'm sure, she thought.

"You are too kind, my lord," she replied noncommittally.

"I give credit as it is due," he said. "You should be proud of what you have done. Our community needs champions like you six. Such talents and strengths are the pillars on which we stand."

Despite the implied compliment, the words irked her. Her response was automatic.

"Pardon me sir," she said in her precise, let-me-tell-you voice, "but I always thought that decent laws and democratic institutions were the proper foundations for a just society." He chuckled and gave her a superior smile. She saw the amusement in Themis' eyes and it made her even angrier.

"You are young enough to say this, and in truth I commend you," he replied. "Principles are indeed important, but few institutions are perfect. Most are only as good as the peoples who lead them."

She thought it was a crass and cynical remark, but she held her tongue. Next to her Draco was nodding in approval, and she didn't want to make a scene in front of her friends.

"Don't you fear that giving the leaders too much power can lead to problems?" she asked. It was Themis who replied.

"Ah but that is why we have organizations such as the Wizengamot, where decisions are taken in consensus. Certainly, a tyrant is never a good thing."

No, but an oligarchy, and a quasi hereditary one at that, is not much better.

They talked a little more, but it was all she could do to remain polite. Curiously, no one reacted to her manifest disapproval. It was as if they were ignoring her opinion, even Draco. Only Ginny was giving her a strange look. Mercifully, another guest addressed Lord Shrummer and engaged him in a new conversation. She left as soon as she could, and went to the bar to get something to eat. She was still thinking dark thoughts when she felt another presence closing in.

"Hi there," said Helen.

"Uh? Oh, hello Helen," replied Hermione, the remains of a scowl still on her face.

"Are you all right?"

"Yes, yes," she shook her head. "I'm just annoyed about some things. Stupid really."

Helen looked sympathetic but didn't press for more details. Hermione tried to put her mind away from the previous unpleasantness. She was listening to her friend's small talk, when she caught sight of Amelia Bones. She remembered that the woman was considered one of the most fair minded among the Ministry officials and a sudden idea came into her head.

"Helen, are you still serious about your Muggle parents association?"

"Of course," she replied with a puzzled expression. "Why do you ask?"

"Because there is someone we could talk to about it, and about FOM as well." She pointed toward the broad, square-jawed witch. "What do you say to a little sales pitch?"

Helen looked in the direction she indicated. It was the first time she had ever seen a woman wear a monocle, and the rest of her appearance was not reassuring.

"She doesn't look very friendly."

"Harry said good things about her, and I know her niece well. I'm willing to give it a try."

Helen gestured for her to go on and the two of them converged on the formidable looking witch who was apparently finishing a conversation with another wizard.

"Mrs. Bones?" asked Hermione politely. "Excuse us, but could we have a moment of your time?"

Amelia Bones turned a severe face to them. She relaxed visibly as she recognized Hermione.

"Miss Granger. By all means, I have been meaning to thank you for your role in that DA group of yours last year. Susan told me that she owes you half of her OWL grade. What can I do for you?"

Hermione introduced Helen and briefly described their plans. She was careful to say that Dumbledore had worked on the bylaws with them, passing over the fact that the idea of a Muggle parent association had never been considered at the time. She didn't think it would be a problem.

Bones listened carefully, and her eyes narrowed when the Headmaster was mentioned. She asked a number of questions to both of them and pondered silently the answers. She took note of Helen's family name, but if she remembered any aspects of the Parker case, she showed no sign of it.

"This is interesting," she finally said. "I would like to read your documents and take the time to think some more about it."

"I'll send you a copy first thing in the morning," promised Hermione, unable to mask her excitement at finding a sympathetic audience. Bones looked at her closely with a very serious face.

"You are really worked up about this," she finally said in a quiet voice.

Hermione was ready to reply immediately that of course she was, but the attitude of the older witch made her think it out carefully. Amelia Bones was reacting very positively but the Ministry official was also treating the subject as something more important than expected. After all, it was just another association. Hermione began to wonder if she had made a mistake in coming to her.

"I feel this is important," she finally said. "There's nothing wrong with it I hope?"

Bones' expression didn't change and continued to look at the young woman. After a moment she turned her head and looked at where the Minister was standing, talking with a group of other wizards, Lord Shrummer among them. She paused, as if pondering a deep problem, and then she turned back toward the two women.

"There's nothing wrong with students, or even parents, starting such an association," she said, "because it won't get anywhere." Hermione looked shocked. "How far would you be ready to take this project?" continued the older witch.

"I don't think I completely understand," said Hermione cautiously. Actually she suspected where Bones was going, but her instincts told her to be prudent.

"You want this to work?"

"Yes of course." What a stupid question!

Bones looked at her again.

"This is not the proper time to discuss it," she finally said in a firm voice. "Send me your documents and I will contact you when something can be done."

Hermione wanted to pursue the matter, but she could see that the other witch would not commit to anything more at that time. She acquiesced and was rewarded with a serious nod in return.

"Thank you very much, Mrs. Bones. I will do that."

The older woman excused herself and took her leave. Hermione and Helen looked at each other, unsure of what to make of the conversation. Helen proposed that they go back to the others. Hermione was thoughtful and as they moved along, she caught sign of Draco and Ginny in an animated discussion with Trevor Themis. They looked perfectly at ease, smiling and chuckling together, and it bothered her as she recalled the unpleasant encounter with him and Shrummer. She could not shake a looming sense of dread, and she wondered where all this was going.

She was still distracted when Harry came back from his guided tour. He had such a happy face that she forgave him his desertion. The rest of the evening was subdued as each of them kept to their private thoughts. They didn't stay very much longer in any case since the teachers insisted that everybody returned to the school for a proper night's sleep.

- - -

Somewhere,

The room was once again lighted by seven bursts of flames. This time, no insect or small animal was victimized. The remaining creatures had learned the lesson, or perhaps there weren't any left in the area.

"Give me your reports," asked Electra curtly.

"The first action regarding the Camelot Circle was a complete success," said Alan Boocrat. "It will now only require an extended majority voting of the Wizengamot to secure ownership of the grounds."

"Can we hope for that to happen soon?" asked the youngest wizard.

"No. It is still too early. Too many questions would be asked," replied Electra.

According to the statutes of that organization, such a majority was set at three quarters of the votes. They could only hope to convince so many members if there was a real situation of emergency, and if the possession of the castle could be presented as a potential solution. This was further complicated by the fact that as far they knew, no other members of the Wizengamot knew about the Circles.

"Then why did we do it?"

"We needed to weaken the compact before the matter could even be considered," answered Boocrat.

A magical contract affected the very minds of those engaged by it. The agreement between the Centaurs and the Founders was no exception. The Brotherhood rituals enabled them to work against it, but most wizards would automatically be prompted to defend it. Even Lord Shrummer, since he was a member of one of the signatory organizations, could not have gone with them into Camelot. The wards would have killed him. Only now, would he be able to lead the Wizengamot into a vote.

"Our work also allows us to preempt any reaction from the Centaurs," added Electra, turning toward the man on her left "What about the Goblins?"

"The new assignment of Arthur Weasley as Head the Goblin liaison office has been confirmed," said Thelas in an even, almost bored, voice.

"Did you get any feedback from your contacts at Gringotts?" asked Shrummer.

"Yes. They are taking it as a gesture of goodwill for now, as you intended no doubt."

"As we intended," corrected Electra. "That is good. They may relax their vigilance, and their future reaction should be that much more explosive. In the meantime, nothing should be done to antagonize them." She turned toward Shrummer "How did your discussion with Malfoy and Weasley go?"

"They have not changed their position. They are still ready to work with us, and they believe the others will follow."

"Even the Granger girl?"

"She is certainly not convinced yet, but I trust the others to allay her suspicions for the moment."

"Suspicions?" asked Thelas with a frown. "What does she suspect?"

"Nothing." Shrummer shrugged. "She's a mudblood, and she has these silly ideas about our customs."

"And it is a very good thing that she has them," added Boocrat. "In fact, her opinions will prove to be the very flaw from which we will shatter their unity."

"Ah," said Shrummer, sudden understanding visible on his face. He looked at Electra with renewed respect. "So that is your idea to deal with them." Electra and Alan had not gone into the full details of their complex plan. Up to now the council had been concentrating on what they had called the 'Camelot Gambit'.

"I hope we can trust you to make your move as dramatically as possible," asked Electra.

"It will be a masterpiece," replied the portly wizard with a grand gesture. "The girl has already contacted Amelia Bones." He exploded into laughter. "Imagine that. Each of them the bait to lead to other into the same trap. Truly, this is beauty." He bowed toward Electra. Most of the others were smiling.

Thelas listened to them and felt a deep misgiving. The plan was perhaps brilliant, but it was leading them to disregard all precautions. For the first time, most of the Brotherhood inner circle had acted in the open, working directly instead of using expendable proxies. Soon they would actually do so together. It was reckless behavior, and contrary to every principle that the organization had followed for centuries.

And she's the cause of this. She's seduced them with the promise of the ultimate goal, and now that they've glimpsed it, they can't think about anything else. This is madness.

He couldn't even speak out against it. All he could offer was a conservative strategy of securing their position and advancing cautiously, which they would not accept now. He would have gone along with the separate plan of neutralizing the six upstarts. He agreed that they were a real threat, but to try for a complete and immediate victory however, that was something else again.

The meeting ended, and each of them went back to their private homes. For him it was large and well furnished London penthouse with a spectacular view over the City. He poured himself a glass of old malt and walked to the large window bay to look outside.

Even in the middle of the night, several lights burned inside the tall, modern office buildings. Signs that the financial activities never stopped. This was his hunting ground. He was the latest in a family deeply involved into the borderline economy between the wizard and the Muggle worlds. It had made his fortune and that of his partners, be they wizards, Muggles or Goblins. As he looked at the city lights, he thought about the wealth that they had accumulated over the years. It was far more important to him than the potential power of ancient magic. He actually believed that Merlin and the Founders had been right to hide the secrets of the Circles. It would be better if nobody ever found them. Such power was too disruptive, and bad for business.

Still, better that we, rather than others, control it.

Good and well if they succeeded, but what would happen if they failed?

I could lose it all. The prestige, the money, my life even.

He took a sip of his drink, the strong liquor warming his mouth. There was not much he could do. Even if he wanted to, betrayal was not an option. He was committed to help the Brotherhood and to assist in the plan approved by the council. The rituals held him in their vice.

Damn that woman!

Order of Merlin Ch16 - 18