Akira's true parentage (Rewrite)

Weasley Manor, April 1st, 2002

Fred and George were on a mission. Today is their fourth birthday and they were ready for the day. They couldn’t wait to wake their older brothers and their father up. The only ones, who they didn’t want to wake is their mother and their younger siblings since they didn’t trust them and they hated Molly’s scolding. Unknown to the Weasleys, Molly nearly destroyed her connection with her older five children due to her action. There is only a thin string that is holding the bond, but that string can be destroyed by Arthur, if he dissolves the marriage contract between him and Molly. The Weasley Family Magic is slowly cutting the ties to Molly and her older five boys, but the tie with the marriage contract can’t be easily destroyed since it is Arthur’s responsibility, if he wants to destroy that small tie. And in case the marriage contract gets annulled, the children would only feel apathy towards their mother and there wouldn’t be any love that a child would have towards their mother.

Fred and George woke their older brothers apart from Bill, who is still at Hogwarts, and their father with bells and glitter.

Arthur came out of his room with a smile on his face, but there was a dangerous glint in eyes, where both twins swallowed hard. “Boys, come here now and face your punishment. It will get worse, if you are not coming.”

Fred and George faced their father, who was still looking at them with the same smile and the same glint in his eyes. Arthur was glad that the Wizengamot meeting was scheduled for next week. Normally, the meeting should have been today, but many didn’t want the meeting to take place during April Fools Day, and it was rescheduled. He wasn’t sure, if he should be glad or displeased since the twins are active during their birthday. After cleaning himself and making sure that twins are glittered as punishment, the other children came out. Percy and Charlie were glittered and were less than pleased, when they were woken up by the bells. Arthur quickly cleaned them up and ordered one of the cook elves to prepare for breakfast. Sometimes, he is dreading that the twins would become like Fabian and Gideon. When he was in his first year, he had been friends with the older twins and Arthur had known that both were pranksters. It seems like that the twins inherited the same love for pranks like Fabian and Gideon and are as mischievous as they had been. Arthur sighed. He missed his friends. Their deaths hit him hard since they were really good friends and he had trusted them. But Arthur doesn’t have the time to dwell on the past.

When breakfast was ready, Molly, Ron and Ginny joined them at the breakfast table. Thankfully, it was quiet since even Ron and Ginny focused more on the food than their surroundings. Arthur didn’t know, what to do with Ron and Ginny since they weren’t his, but he will try his best to be in their lives. He really can’t blame them for their conceiving since it was Molly’s fault that she was unfaithful to him. He already had a talk with Bill and Charlie and both boys would take care of the youngest two even though they have a clear dislike towards them.

During the twins’ birthday, many guests have arrived and he had managed to get Bill here until tomorrow. The teachers sent him the needed assignments home. Arthur was proud that his son had finished them in the afternoon. Thankfully, the mandatory tutoring sessions in potions are finished and Bill is up to par with the ICW curriculum in potions. Arthur was grateful that Minerva hasn’t noticed anything amiss. He told Bill to floo from her office to the Burrow and then, floo to Weasley Manor. The Weasley patriarch made sure that everything was untraceable. Not even Dumbledore would be able to track them down. It was a mix of dark and light families in the UK and the Delacours from France, who had come to visit. Arthur felt at peace. He remembered that Ron’s birthday last month in the Burrow was tiring since he had to act like he was a blind fool in front of Dumbledore. Many order members were invited. The only ones that he had trusted are Alastor ‘Mad-Eye’ Moody and strangely Dedalus Diggle. He had told his newly gained friends and allies about Dedalus Diggle and everyone saw that the man is very distant towards Dumbledore and the order. He knew that his son is a blind fool, but his daughter was not and Arthur knew that she left the house after graduation. From what, he heard, she was disowned by her brother for marrying Augustus Rookwood, but when he visited Diggle Manor, Arthur had managed to find out that according to Dedalus, she wasn’t disowned from the family since he would never go against a soulmate couple like Julius had done to Evan and Regulus. So, Claudia Diggle is still a Diggle only she is married into the Rookwood family.

The Grey Alliance quickly contacted the Rookwoods and they had been introduced to Lady Claudia Rookwood neé Diggle. Claudia revealed some things about her father and how he was forced to take a loyalty oath by her grandfather, who was a blind follower of Dumbledore. She wanted to help her father, but sadly, she couldn’t due to her tyrannic brother, who had never forgiven her for choosing a dark wizard as marriage partner.

They couldn’t think any lower about the headmaster, but this was the lowest of the low to force a kind man like Dedalus into a loyalty oath. They promised Claudia to find a way to save Dedalus from Dumbledore’s clutches, but it would be difficult.

Molly was furious about all those dark wizards and witches like the Malfoys, Greengrasses, Lestranges etc. in her house. She couldn’t believe that Arthur was allowing their children to be exposed by all these people. She tried to invite some of the order members, but couldn’t due to the house arrest. Not even the new family owl wanted to listen to her. Her husband is becoming dark, because of Crouch, the goblins and the person that sent the anonymous tip and she can’t do anything.

She saw everyone talking peacefully and there was happiness. The only family that didn’t make sense are the Clearwaters. She heard the name from somewhere, but she couldn’t place her finger until she remembered that their daughter, Penelope Clearwater, is Percy’s soulmate. She was glad that Percy has a soulmate that Albus would be able to control and she would approve, but she wasn’t sure now. Molly didn’t like her older boys’ soulmates and for that reason she had it blocked. Bill’s soulmate is a dark creature and she will not allow her son to marry a disgusting veela, but sadly, it seems like that that veela tramp is getting her clutches on her oldest son and she can’t stop it. Charlie’s soulmate is another boy and she will not accept one of her children to be a faggot, but Molly was sure that Arthur had allowed to purge her children from the needed treatment. Fred and George shared a soulmate and Molly hated polygamy. So, she blocked the soul bond with the help of Minerva and Albus. Molly hoped that Fred and George would marry two girls and not be savages that would share one girl. This was also destroyed.

Molly was lost in her thoughts, when Narcissa approached her. Narcissa was planning to inform her that it was her that gave Crouch the anonymous tip. She wanted to make sure, how her reaction would be.

Molly groaned, when the Malfoy bitch was approaching her. The woman started with her damnable smirk. “Ah, Molly, what a surprise that you are allowed to be here, let alone to be near your children after everything, what you have done to Arthur and your trueborn sons.” Molly growled at that, but remained quiet. She knew that the woman wants to poke her at the fact that her youngest two are not Arthur’s biological children. Narcissa continued much to Molly’s misery: “And now, you are under house arrest for your own actions. To be honest, Molly, I have known that something was wrong with Arthur, but I needed proof. So, I made an anonymous tip to Lord Crouch, where I made my suspicions clear that Arthur was under spells and potions.” Molly suddenly stopped in her tracks. That bitch was responsible for ruining her life. She was going to make her pay for this mess that Malfoy had caused and for destroying Dumbledore’s plans.

Narcissa quickly left the woman before she would blow up like a bomb. She quickly informed her friends that she revealed Molly the truth about the anonymous tip and quickly left. Arthur and the others could see that Molly was ready to combust in fury, but she is restraining herself from lashing out in front of a public event.

The birthday went on until it was late in the evening, when the twins had to go to bed. From there on the guests started to leave.

Before Augustinus could leave, he also went to Molly. The woman glared at the man. She knew, what the man had done to the former Lestrange trio, but she believed it to be a ruse and that the man is a pureblood supremacist. The old Lestrange lord said: “Well, Molly. I am glad that soon enough House Lestrange and House Weasley would be allied through marriage.” Molly was confused. How are they going to be allied to the House Lestrange since the Lestranges are dying out. The man will not live a long time. She was sure of that.

Augustinus noticed the confused look on the Weasley matriarch and it is time to drop the bomb about Penelope. “You are asking yourself, how this is going to happen since my house is seemingly extincting. Well, I can give you the answer. Muggleborns are not really coming from muggles.” Now, Molly was confused. Muggleborns are born to a non-magical couple and were gifted with magic. Augustinus just smiled, when he had seen that Molly is still clueless. The woman didn’t get the message. So, he continued: “Actually, muggleborns are actually squibborns and well, currently, I have an heiress, who will continue the Lestrange line and would be the next Lady Lestrange since she is descending from the House Lestrange.” The man’s sight went to the Clearwater girl. Suddenly, Molly was hit with a realisation. NO! Her third eldest will marry a dark witch. She never thought that Penelope would descend from such a dark family like the Lestranges. If she had known about that, then, she would have blocked the soul bond too. This must be a nightmare. Augustinus left the woman chuckling to himself. Molly is now panicking, how everything is going the wrong way.

The birthday ended, when the last guests left the manor. Molly was furious. This was her worst day yet. Malfoy destroyed her life and Lestrange told her that Percy is going to marry his cousin and heiress. This is her worst nightmare. She hoped that she would wake up and have her life back, but sadly unknown to her, her life would get even worse.

Hogwarts, April 5th, 2002

Albus was sitting with his followers in his office discussing the ban against Ancient Magic. Albus knew that Voldemort had dabbled into that kind of magic, but it would be disproved since the man only dabbled into olde dark magic that is in most cases illegal globally. Ancient Magic is difficult to wield and only some have been successful. It is something that you have to be gifted with by Lady Magic and this gift is only given to those, that had to stop a great evil like it was done during the 19th century, when Ranruk and his supporters and Viktor Rookwood and his crooks were causing havoc in the wizarding world and the goblin nation. Many Ancient Magic users in history start their magical education normally in their fifth year since their core needs time to develop with the Ancient Magic. Voldemort only received the powers of the Dark Lord from Lady Magic. If he had received the gift of Ancient Magic, Voldemort wouldn’t have started Hogwarts during his first year, but during his fifth year. Furthermore, the man would have been treated differently by the orphanage since Ancient Magic users barely do any accidental magic and if they do, it would be very small and unnoticed. Lady Magic really should have gifted Riddle with Ancient Magic since he would have started his school life very late during his fifth year. The orphanage would have been dissolved due to the increased bombings since Dumbledore wouldn’t know about Riddle until it is too late and furthermore, he wouldn’t have been able to set up any protections and wards against muggle bombs like in this timeline, in order to keep the boy in an abusive environment. Of course, Tom would have been raised very differently since he would have experienced the war in a new aspect and he would have different views regarding the muggles and wizards. It would have been too difficult for Dumbledore to manipulate someone, who has lived through a war and would recognise a manipulation from miles away. The boy would have been successful to bring both Dumbledore and Grindelwald down and destroy their power base, but Fate and Destiny told her that Tom was destined to be a dark lord, which would cause more problems than they are worth it.

Lady Magic can’t dwell on that missed opportunity. It is now time to fix things and this time, she has a Grey Lord. Normally, the Potters would only have John, but Harry was born too due to the imbalance. Lady Magic knew that it is cruel to give a young child such a great responsibility, but she knew that he would be ready, when he is finished with Hogwarts to bring back the balance with a new light and a new dark lord.

Lady Magic was watching Albus plotting, but she can tell that it would not work. Another benefit is that Arthur Weasley is there to spy on the order meetings.

When the meeting ended, Lady Magic was sure that the information would be used to counter the nomination.

Davis Manor, April 6th, 2002

Narcissa smirked slightly, when Arthur was finished with his story about the order meeting. She knew that she would use the same excuse like the first time around since Ancient Magic is used in the Magical Military Unit here in the UK since many Battle Mages were strong enough to wield that kind of magic. This kind of magic is rare since only a few are able to wield it and the books regarding Ancient Magic are very rare and only accessible to those, who have got the gift from Lady Magic. Furthermore, Narcissa also plans to reveal that Ancient Magic users are either born or are receiving the gift on a later date like the Battle Mages in the Magical Military Unit, in order to make sure that it is not misconstrued as evil.

But there was another issue and it is to put up a distraction for Dumbledore and his followers. Many were not sure, what to put as a distraction until Narcissa had an idea. “What we are missing in our world are orphanages and there we could be more successful.”

Augustinus smiled and said: “Oh, we are going to be successful. When my former great-nephews joined that maniac, I researched him and found out that he had lived in a muggle orphanage called Wool’s orphanage. According to some of the children that had lived there, they informed me that Tom had no friends and was abused due to his strange abilities by the head of the orphanage. Sometimes, there was even a priest to try an exorcism against the boy, which nearly led to his death. If he had been non-magical, he would have died.” Narcissa really would be successful with that and she was furious, what had been done to Voldemort, when he was a child. If the man had been removed from such a place, then, she was sure that Voldemort wouldn’t have become a maniacal, crazy, dark lord. Even though, it is Voldemort, she would never wish this to happen to any magical child. She looked at the Clearwaters and asked: “Mr. Clearwater, is there maybe a way to ban exorcism in the non-magical world?”

Jeremy answered: “Sadly no since it would be seen as an interference within the churches, but now it is regulated since 1999, the exorcists needed the expertise of a psychatrist, before they could start an exorcism. It is actually illegal to do an exorcism without the consultation of a psychologist and psychiatrist.” Narcissa had to admit that with this regulation, parents wouldn’t be able to order exorcisms on magical children without any expertise. She was sure that with the right people, they would be able to stop most parents from thinking that their children were possessed by demons.

For now, they have everything. Dumbledore’s nomination would be stopped by pointing out that this branch of magic is also one of the branches of magics in the Magical Military Unit and that the minister would be again endangered.

Cyrus had a thoughtful look. When he had seen Jack McLean, the Greengrass Lord had the suspicion that the young man could be his nephew, Jaques Greengrass, but he looked too different, since he had black eyes instead of blue eyes and he looked a bit older. Cyrus never talked about his brother since he was a death eater, but the only person he cared in his brother’s family is his nephew, Jaques. When his nephew was born, his brother treated him as a disappointment since he was a male bearer, but Cyrus and Danielle loved their nephew regardless like he was their own. But during the summer after Jaques’ fifth year, something has happened that led to his nephew running away, which really saddened them. He had been in the unknown for why his nephew would run away from the family until a letter from his account manager had arrived that informed him that his brother tried to create an illegal betrothal contract between his nephew and Atticus Mulciber. Cyrus was furious and cancelled the contract since he, as the head of the family, was not consulted in this and he absolutely refused that match since Atticus Mulciber was a brutal and violent man. He also disowned his brother from the House Greengrass for the dishonour he brought upon the family and through the Family Magics, he banned the man from ever seeing his son. Cyrus and Danielle moved heaven and earth to find their nephew, but it seems like that he had hidden himself, in order to protect himself, and they had prayed to find him. They suspected that the reason why he ran away was to escape an unwanted betrothal. Next month would be his 17th birthday and Danielle and he were slowly losing hope of finding him. Maybe Jack McLean is a lead, but they can’t put up their hopes up on the man.

Cyrus asked Amelia: “Amelia, have you done an inheritance test on Jack McLean, in order to check up his identity?”

Amelia shook her head and realised that she made a little mistake that could throw the case through the window. She will make the inheritance test after the Wizengamot meeting. Amelia answered: “No, but I am going to make an inheritance test after the Wizengamot meeting.”

Cyrus nodded. Maybe he could be wrong that Jack is his missing nephew, but he hopes that he isn’t wrong.

Narcissa knew, why Cyrus asked that. She knew about Alfred Greengrass and his son, Jaques, and the scandal with the illegal betrothal contract with the Mulcibers. It led to a feud between the Houses Greengrass and Mulciber and until today, it had not been solved. Narcissa hoped that Jack McLean is the missing member of House Greengrass, but she wasn’t sure. Both looked so similar, but also different. They needed to be carefully not to set their hopes up.

With that, the meeting came to an end.

Wizengamot, April 8th, 2002

Narcissa was sitting at the Wizengamot meeting bored out. Only a few minutes after the session started, Dumbledore nominated to ban Ancient Magic and now, the man was droning on and on about the dangers of that branch. Narcissa let out an unheard huff. Turning to her husband, who was equally bored like her, Narcissa whispered: “The man likes to hear his own voice. Seriously, can he make these nominations any shorter?”

Lucius chuckled lightly and answered: “No, Cissy. We are talking about Dumbledore. The man loves to drone on about something, so that everyone would vote his nomination. He also wants us to suffer for the lost nomination during the March meeting.” Narcissa just rolled her eyes. Sometimes, Dumbledore can be petty, when he doesn’t get his way, but they were going to make sure that things would not go his way again. When Dumbledore was finished, Narcissa let out a sigh of relief. The man is making things really difficult.

When it was time for another nomination, this time, Lord Rosier was the one, who wanted to speak. Albus hoped that the man was not going to make things needlessly hard, but he would be happy to shoot something down that the dark is proposing. “Lord Rosier.”

Darren took a deep breath and nominated: “I propose that we open here in the magical world our own orphanages, so that we can give magical orphans a roof over their heads care for them.”

Albus tried quickly: “Lord Rosier, we have enough orphanages here in the UK. We don’t need more.”

Augustinus was hiding a smirk. The man doesn’t want orphanages in the magical world, so that he can send orphans in muggle orphanages that in some cases were a danger to magical children, but he had a way to counter the man. “Chief Warlock, are you referring to the orphanages in the muggle world?” Albus nodded and Augustinus got him in a trap. “Then, I am afraid that a majority of these orphanages are not safe for magical children. You know, when my former great-nephews joined that insane madman, I have researched him and I was surprised by my results.” Albus was trying to hide his panic. He wanted to throw a killing curse on Augustinus Lestrange, so that he can silence him permanently, but that would be a very bad idea now since there were too many witnesses. Augustinus continued satisfied with the panicked look on Albus’ face: “According to what I have found out, Lord Voldemort or as he was known by his birth name, Thomas Marvolo Riddle, was raised in a religious, muggle orphanage and I can tell you all that the man as a boy was abused horrendously, because of his magic. I managed to get some records from the archives of the neighbouring church of the orphanage and there I have noticed that Nicola Cole, the late head of the orphanage, where Voldemort was raised, had ordered some exorcisms against Thomas Marvolo Riddle due to his ‘devil’ abilities. I believe that the abuse and the exorcisms made Voldemort to hate muggles and due to his sorting in Slytherin, his hatred extended to muggleborns, squibs, halfbloods and magical creatures. So, I ask you all here, do any of you want to risk another Voldemort, because of a muggle orphanage that is prejudiced against witches and wizards.” Everyone shook their heads vehemently and chattering broke out. Augustinus hid a smirk and watched Dumbledore’s reaction.

Albus really wanted to kill Augustinus Lestrange. That man destroyed so many plans in one row. What was he supposed to do now? If he tries to shoot down the idea, many would think that he wants another dark lord and he can’t have that. He is getting tired of nominations that were ruining his Greater Good. He tried: “The idea sounds to be good, but what about the funds for the necessities and a building, where the orphans can have a roof over their heads.” Suddenly, many spoke up: “We can put up a donation.” “We can offer some of our unused manors and rent them to a very small price less than 10 Galleons a year as an orphanage.” Many started to talk at once offering to help the orphans in their world and there Albus got furious. He needed to talk to his followers.

Narcissa smiled at her husband. “Well, Albus got a nasty surprise. Even his followers are furious and unhappy about those revelations regarding Voldemort.” Lucius hid a grin and said: “I can imagine, how loud the argument is inside these wards and thank Merlin, we are not dealing with these fools.” Narcissa just repressed a snort.

When the privacy bubble was up, Aurelia Acton took over. The woman had to repress a laugh and remained stoic. “Whereas they have a press conference about this topic, we can continue.” Many chuckled at the comment. She looked around and questioned: “Are there any further nominations?”

This time, it was Lucius Malfoy, who rose his wand. Aurelia turned her attention to the Malfoy lord. “Lord Malfoy?”

Lucius stood up and proposed: “I have serious questions about Lord Dumbledore’s nomination regarding Ancient Magic. From what, I have learned about this branch of magic, it is used by the Magical Military Unit and it is only gifted by Lady Magic to certain individuals. If we look at our history, then, we would notice that the last wielder of Ancient Magic was born with that kind of magic and started to attend Hogwarts in his fifth year since his core needed time to adjust to the additional magic. And the same individual stopped the last Goblin Rebellion by defeating Ranruk and his followers. Furthermore, some members of the military unit are also able to wield this kind of magic after they gained Lady Magic’s favour and you all know, what happens, if the Wizengamot is actively interfering against the Magical Military Unit or have you all forgotten the last Wizengamot meeting. So, I ask you, would this ban be seen as an interference to the military unit and would this interference be another risk to the minister’s magic.” Many were horrified and looked at the minister. Bagnold’s look alone made everyone realise that again they nearly risked their minister’s magic. Lucius continued: “We have forgotten our laws very fast and I will tell you now that we can’t ban Archaic, Arcane and Ancient Magic without risking that our dear minister loses her magic. Do you want to be responsible for turning Minister Bagnold into a squib? The punishment is a life sentence in Azkaban no matter, if it was purposeful or not.” Everyone shook their heads fearfully and had to admit that they do not want to spend the rest of their lives in Azkaban, because of Dumbledore. Lucius finished: “For that reason, I nominate to put the current ban against Ancient Magic into question, because we should re-evaluate the law with these revelations.”

Callidora draw the attention to herself by announcing: “I request Dumbledore’s nomination to be rescinded. This nomination alone is dangerous and a risk to an innocent woman.” Many agreed with her and Aurelia put it in the docket. The request would be voted first since it is about a nomination that had been made by the old fool.

When Dumbledore was finished, the man was tired and angry. After he retook the podium, things got worse for him since Aurelia explained him the request from Callidora Longbottom and Malfoy’s nomination. Albus tried to protest the request, but when it was voted on, the majority demanded the rescinding of his motion. Albus was furious, when he was forced to remove his nomination from the docket.

The next vote was on the orphanages in the magical world and he was forced to vote for the motion since he was boxed in a corner by Lestrange. The third nomination was a landslide and Albus became even more furious. This meeting was a complete nightmare.

After the votes, the Wizengamot meeting came to an end. Albus sent his followers home, because he couldn’t deal with their whining and complaining now.

Headmaster’s office

Albus stormed into his office and started to destroy it in his pure rage. How dare they? How dare they rescind his nomination? He wanted to make their world a lot safer and they were going in the opposite direction. After he had calmed down, Albus fixed his office and sat down sucking on a lemon drop, in order to calm his nerves down.

After a while, he heard a knock on the office door. Albus noticed that it was Minerva and allowed her in.

Minerva was concerned, when she heard the headmaster’s office being destroyed. She thought that some students were demolishing the office, but she recognised that it was Albus. Whatever had happened during the Wizengamot meeting, it wasn’t good. She asked in a concerned tone: “Albus, is everything alright? Did something happen during the Wizengamot meeting?”

Albus sighed and explained: “Yes. The Wizengamot voted for the opening of magical orphanages and put the current ban regarding Ancient Magic into question.”

Minerva was shocked. “WHAT?!” She thought that she had misheard Albus.

Albus nodded and answered: “Darren Rosier had brought it up. I was close to dismiss the motion, but Augustinus Lestrange destroyed everything.” Albus’ anger reawakened at the mention of the man’s name. That man had become a thorn to his side that is becoming bigger and bigger. Albus continued brushing his anger off: “The man researched Voldemort and found many information that I wanted to keep hidden. Now, they became public knowledge and we can’t send any orphans back to the muggle orphanages since many would think that we are trying to create a second Voldemort.” Minerva was furious. How dare that man? She would have scolded the man for using fear to get his way.

“Now, we are stuck. That man caused so much damage and it can’t be repaired since many would be reminded, what Voldemort had become, when he was raised in a muggle orphanage. I already can foresee that the Wizengamot would put a ban that would forbid magical children to be sent to muggle orphanages at the next meeting.” Albus hoped that this would not happen, but sadly, it could be a possibility. He hated this. He thought that he had hidden everything about Tom’s past, but it seems like that he was proven wrong. How did Lestrange get this information? He needed to find out, if there are some lose ends and if he had to get rid of them. Albus made sure that the orphans that lived with Tom wouldn’t talk about him, but sadly, he may have overseen some and Lestrange got to them. Albus should have killed them personally, but he believed that Tom would deal with them appropriately. Sadly, he didn’t and now he had to deal with the fallout.

Minerva and Albus were discussing the ban against Ancient Magic and Malfoy’s nomination regarding it, which was also setback, and what to do during the board meeting at the end of the month. Albus still didn’t find anything that he can remove from the potion class, but he will work harder. His pawns’ futures are depending on him.

Ministry, Interrogation Room, April 10th, 2002

Amelia ordered her aurors to bring Jack McLean back in the interrogation room and requested a goblin in the ministry since she is in a need of an inheritance test. The woman is waiting for the goblin and McLean. The goblin arrived first and was escorted inside. Karkstone didn’t know, what was going on, but he hoped that the witch was not going to waste his time, which he doubted. Amelia greeted the goblin politely and explained: “Account Manager Karkstone, you are here for an inheritance test regarding one of the prisoners. We have a suspicion that we may have found a missing minor.” Karkstone mused at that knowing that the ministry had made those requests in the past to identify the missing. Amelia knew that she is putting a high stake on this, but she knew that she wanted to help the Greengrasses to find their nephew.

Karkstone answered: “Very well, Lady Bones, but if this proves to be a waste of our ingredients, then, you know that the ministry had to reimburse us.” Amelia knew that, but she was sure that there is more to Jack McLean than the eye would meet. Amelia answered: “I know the consequences and if my suspicion proves to be wrong, I am willing to pay the price, Account Manager Karkstone.” The goblin nodded and smiled slightly knowing that the woman is honest.

When Jack was led in and saw the goblin with the heritage potion and the parchment, the man started to panic and tried to get out, but the two aurors were holding him firm. Amelia was surprised by this. Maybe it is the missing nephew of Lord and Lady Greengrass, but she needed proof. After Jack’s attorney entered the interrogation room last, the man was surprised to see the goblin. Drake asked: “Amelia, what is going on and why is a goblin here?”

Amelia answered strictly: “Attorney Drake, Account Manager Karkstone is here, because we suspect that this case is connected with a case of a missing minor. I have the suspicion that Mr. McLean is the missing nephew of Lord and Lady Greengrass. If you remember the scandal with the illegal betrothal contract, then, you can make the connection, why he is missing.” The attorney remembered that and realised that maybe his client is a minor. Jack was confused. Illegal betrothal contract? But his father said that the contract was perfectly legal and that he had to marry Atticus Mulciber no matter what he wanted. What had happened? Quickly, returning back from his thoughts, Jack was terrified and wanted to go, when the goblin stepped in front of him.

Karkstone examined the young man in front of him and noticed that the man is wearing glamours. The goblin said: “Auror Bones, it seems like that Mr. McLean is wearing glamours that would make him look older and different.” Amelia stared at the goblin in shock. Could the man be the missing boy? If it is the case, then, the case would have to be handled differently since he can’t be charged in front of the whole Wizengamot. She requested: “Then, please remove the glamours, Account Manager Karkstone.” With a wave of his hand, Karkstone removed the glamours with goblin magic and in front of them stood clearly a teenager and not a young man that has blue eyes and blond hair. Amelia noticed the Greengrass features and was ready to run to her office, in order to call Cyrus and Danielle here.

Karkstone asked in a curious tone: “Now, let’s make an inheritance test, in order to find out, who you really are even though it is obvious that you are a member of the House Greengrass?”

Amelia nodded in agreement and summoned four seats. The four apart from the two shocked aurors sat down and Karkstone started with the inheritance test. After the boy let a few drops of blood fall on the potion-soaked parchment, they waited until the inheritance test was finished.

When the parchment was finished, Karkstone took a look and confirmed that the boy in front of them is really Jaques Greengrass. Amelia quickly sent one of the aurors in the room to get Lord and Lady Greengrass, whereas she was going to interrogate the boy in front of her. The other auror was sent to get Bartemius Crouch Sr. since the case had to be changed.

Amelia asked still in shock: “Mr. Greengrass, you have a lot to explain.” The boy nodded. The woman didn’t know, where to start, but began to ask: “Tell me from the beginning, when you have run away from home to now, what you have been doing.” She noticed Bartemius in the side room watching the interrogation. This is good. The man was shocked and unhappy that the case had to be changed to a minor case, but there was nothing to be done since he didn’t want to be censured by the Wizengamot and did not want to piss off the Greengrass Family. Last time, he got lucky since Rufus was the one on the receiving end of Cyrus’ fury.

Jaques didn’t have choice. He should tell her the truth and started: “It all started, when my father announced to me that I am going to be betrothed to Atticus Mulciber, one of his friends and allies. His wife had died under mysterious circumstances, but I suspected that he had her killed.” Amelia knew about this case and she was sure that there was foul play. Sadly, she didn’t have any proof against Atticus. She nodded to him to continue. Jaques continued: “He explained to me that the betrothal contract was already filed and that my future was set, but I didn’t want to marry him and so, I ran away. I arrived at Knockturn and there, I got my looks reapplied by a witch to look older and changed my eye colour. I couldn’t use magic since I knew that I would be tracked down by my father. So, I waited until my 17th birthday. Everything was alright until Aurelius Yaxley found out, where I was living.” Now Amelia was paying close attention, if there was something that she can use, in order to press charges against the man, then, the better.

Amelia asked kindly trying to calm the scared teen down: “What is his role, Jaques? If there is more against that man, then, please tell us. You are safe here.”

Jaques was ready to continue, but stopped and turned around, when the door opened and Cyrus and Danielle came in. Both were shocked beyond their belief to see their nephew here. The couple was quick as lightning and sat down on two other seats opposite Amelia. They were glad to have their nephew back. Danielle even had some tears streaming down her face and Cyrus was trying to remain calm since the man was at the brink of tearing up. They were glad that Jaques was here and they couldn’t wait to introduce him to his new cousin, when she is born in a month. Jaques had known about Daphne since she was a newborn, before he had disappeared, and the boy was really close to his cousin. They should have known that something was wrong, when Daphne became fussy around Jaques before he had run away. Maybe their little girl had noticed that something was wrong and they had ignored it. Cyrus had blamed himself after he had received the letter from Gringotts about the betrothal contract, when his nephew ran away. Danielle remembered that Cyrus had made sure that his brother suffered for his actions by disowning him and by using family magics to never come near a member of the Greengrass family ever again. Danielle knew that Alfred is now in the goblin mines reaping what he had sown.

Jaques was happy, but also terrified and sad that he had disappointed his aunt and uncle with his actions. Cyrus looked at Amelia and the woman explained, what Jaques had told her until now. The man nodded and seethed silently. He was going to pay a visit to his brother during one of his breaks in the goblin mines. Amelia returned back to her question. “Jaques, back to the question. What role did Aurelius Yaxley play in this? I mean, during your departure, you told me that Aurelius Yaxley found out, who you really are.” Cyrus clenched his teeth. Danielle was trying to calm her husband down. She knew that he is angry, but she herself was not going to like, where the questioning is going.

Jaques had more courage since his aunt and uncle were here and explained: “He threatened me. He told me that he needed another black-market dealer for his deals and that his last dealer suffered an accident. So, he ordered me to do his illegal dealings.” Amelia was going to investigate that. There was a case about a dead black-market dealer, but it was deemed as an accident. Now, she is doubting it. She continued to listen to Jaques’ story. “If I didn’t play by the rules, then, he is going to tell Atticus Mulciber about my whereabouts and hand me over to him, so that I can become his ‘dutiful wife’.” The boy shivered at that and Cyrus and Danielle were furious. There was no way in hell, they would have allowed that man anywhere near their nephew. Amelia was ready to arrest the Yaxley heir, but she needed more information from Jaques. Maybe he is the key for Aurelius’ arrest. She has exploitation charges against the man.

She asked: “Jaques, is that everything, what Aurelius Yaxley had done to you?”

Jaques shook his head and Amelia allowed him to continue: “In some instances, he forced me to undress until I was naked. It was embarrassing and sometimes, he… he… touched me. Thankfully, he didn’t go any further, because he wanted to save my purity for Mulciber.” Amelia was ready to skin the man alive. There are going to be sexual harassment, sexual assault and sexual abuse charges on a minor against Aurelius. Cyrus had to be restrained on the chair, in order to stop the man from killing Aurelius Yaxley and Danielle gave him calming draughts before he could kill the man. She was livid, what Aurelius had done to her nephew.

Amelia asked: “Jaques, is there anything else to add?” The boy shook his head. Amelia said in a kind, soothing tone: “Jaques, you are going to be released to your aunt’s and uncle’s custody. As a minor, I am not allowed to hold you in a ministry holding cell, but the charges are going to remain, understood?” Jaques nodded and was happy that everything is out. Amelia, then, turned her attention to the Greengrass couple. “Lord and Lady Greengrass, I would like to speak with Attorney Drake and Lord Crouch, how we are going to proceed. Your nephew will be released to your custody, but the charges would remain, but there are going to be some changes regarding his trial.” She glanced at Attorney Drake, who remained quiet since he knew that Amelia was not going to make his client’s life difficult. Attorney Drake said: “I will keep you updated regarding his case since you are his guardians.” The couple nodded and trusted Amelia to handle this. They left the room with their nephew. There are some things, they needed to go over.

After the couple left with their nephew, Amelia informed Karkstone: “Account Manager Karkstone, I believe that everything had been resolved. The money for the bill would be transferred.”

Karkstone answered: “The money is not needed, Lady Bones, since it was clearly a case of a missing minor and the bank will be covering the costs. I am also going to request an audit of the Yaxley vaults since a part of the fortune has been gained illegally through black-market deals. I am going to make sure to track down, where the money came from and the illegally gained money would be used as restitution money for Jaques Greengrass. We also will close down the vault of Jack McLean and seize the money in that vault since he doesn’t exist and as a punishment against Mr. Greengrass for falsifying personal information and the illegality of the funds he put in the vault. Gringotts will send you the bank statements, Lady Bones, Lord Crouch.” Amelia nodded. The bank statements would solidify the case against Aurelius Yaxley.

After the goblin left, Bartemius entered the interrogation room perplexed. He knew that the case would be reduced to a minor trial, but he can accept it since there is a big fish with Aurelius Yaxley. The man would face multiple charges of exploitation of a minor, sexual abuse, assault and harassment, buying, selling and being in possession of illegal goods and maybe a murder charge regarding the death of Yaxley’s last black-market dealer. He will allow Amelia to reopen the case. He always thought that there was something fishy regarding the death of Alan Cane, but he couldn’t put his finger on it. There is a lot of work since the man is planning to break a soulbond between one of his best aurors in the DMLE and his wife.

Amelia turned her attention to Attorney Drake. “Mr. Drake, the case against Jack McLean will be dismissed since he doesn’t exist, but there are still charges against Jaques Greengrass regarding the fact that he is an accomplice. I know that he had helped Aurelius Yaxley unwillingly and had suffered under the man’s hand, but he could have avoided this fate, if he had gone to Lord and Lady Greengrass regarding the betrothal contract since it was made illegally by his father. As he was raised in a noble house, Jaques should have known that in a betrothal contract, the head of the family needs to be consulted and has the final say in a marriage or betrothal contract.” Drake wanted to protest, but remained quiet, when Amelia was finished. Even he knew that betrothal and marriage contracts should be consulted by the head of the family and that the head of the family has the final say regarding them. The man asked: “What are you offering, Amelia?”

Amelia smiled and answered: “I am offering you that Jaques should receive a warning and should do 100 community service hours in St. Mungos. Furthermore, the record would remain for five years due to special circumstances since his crimes were done under force, before it would be wiped out from his record.”

Drake had to admit that the punishment is light in comparison, what had been offered beforehand. It was also fair. The boy would do community hours and his record would be clean after five years. The man answered: “I can accept that. I will discuss this with Lord and Lady Greengrass.”

Amelia nodded. “Good, and Lord and Lady Greengrass should hire a mind healer for him, in order work through the trauma, he had suffered. He had gone through enough. Furthermore, he is allowed to continue with his NEWTs since the charges are not affecting his education.” Drake nodded and wrote it down. After he shook his hand with Amelia and Bartemius, he left the interrogation room, in order to speak with Lord and Lady Greengrass.

Bartemius sat down on one of the empty seats and said: “Good job, Amelia. Keep working like this and you will become head of the DMLE in no time.”

Amelia just smiled and said: “You know as I do, Bartemius, that I am not working here to get a high position of power. I am here to help our world to be safe and fight crimes.”

Bartemius answered: “And people like you are more deserving of being the head of the DMLE than certain pompous pricks, who want to be in a position of power.”

Amelia had the suspicion that Bartemius is referencing to Rufus, but she couldn’t disagree with him. She stood up saying: “Let’s get some lunch, Bartemius, and not stay here any longer. Many would think that I am sleeping with you, in order to get the position as the head of the DMLE. I am starving.”

Bartemius just laughed knowing that if it comes to that, then, it would be denied instantly since everyone knew that he and Amelia had a platonic relationship and were only friends. Amelia smiled shaking her head having the same thoughts. Both left the interrogation room going separate ways. Amelia to the floo terminal, in order to get lunch from Diagon Alley. There was no way in hell, she was going to eat the food from the ministry canteen. She did it once and got food poisoning. Bartemius went back to his office. He gets his lunch the freshest from Winky and it is homemade.

Greengrass Manor

Cyrus and Danielle didn’t leave Jaques’ side, when they arrived at their manor. They were afraid to lose him again. When they arrived home, an elf popped in with their sweet little girl, Daphne. Daphne ran to her parents and squealed in happiness, when she saw her cousin again. Jaques took her in his arms and he was happy to be back home. He knew that he was still in trouble, but he hoped that things would look up to him.

Daphne had remained with her cousin until it was time for her nap. When the three remained alone in the room, Cyrus started hugging the younger male: “Jaques, I am so glad that you are back. I wished, we had avoided this back then. If you had come to me and/or Danielle, we would have checked it up. There is no way in hell, I would have allowed this match.” The man finished the hug and placed both hands on his nephew’s shoulders.

Jaques looked down on the floor and said: “I was too rash. I believed that father got his way with the betrothal contract and I panicked.”

Danielle said in a soothing voice: “I know, sweetie, but we are here now and maybe you will get your chance with Anton Abbott. Who knows? Maybe things would look up for you.” Jaques blushed hard, when his aunt mentioned his crush from school. He had always been in love with Anton, but he was too afraid to confess his feelings to him since Anton was in Hufflepuff and he was in Slytherin. Jaques was afraid of being rejected due to the growing prejudice against his house within the other houses.

But what now? He was going to be charged and will be punished. No one would want to associate with someone, who has a criminal record. Jaques had screwed it up and if he hadn’t been such a Gryffindor, he could have avoided it. He is terrified to face his school mates and had tears streaming down, when Jaques thought about Anton. He asked: “What chance, aunt Danielle? I mean, I really screwed it up.”

Danielle answered trying to sooth her nephew down. She knew, how sensitive male bearers are, if they were distressed. “No, not really. There is something that I want to tell you both since I kept it a secret. Even from you, Cyrus.” Cyrus pouted: “Danielle, we are married. Why didn’t you trust me? I am your husband.” Danielle glared at her husband. “Because I was afraid that you are going to go overboard. Furthermore, it isn’t an affair, but something that I wanted to keep for myself private.” Cyrus just continued to pout.

Danielle just sighed and shook her head at her husband’s immature behaviour. She continued to tell them her secret: “Jaques, after you ran away and after the scandal with the betrothal contract, I had a surprise visit from a certain someone. Your uncle was at that time in the ministry and I was still in maternity leave with Daphne. That is the reason why your uncle isn’t aware of it. It was Anton. The boy came here one afternoon and wanted to court you, but I gave him the sad news that you ran away. He was devasted and left the manor without a word. I really wanted to help him, but he wanted to be alone. It had really hurt him and well, I cursed Alfred until my jaw was sore since he ruined everything. At the next day, I received the letter that House Abbott will support House Greengrass against the Mulcibers in the feud.” Cyrus now understood, why Lord Abbott helped him during the feud against Mulciber. It was due to the Abbott heir that he had gained an ally in the feud. Danielle continued before her husband could say something stupid: “Jaques, Anton really loves you and he will not care about your criminal record. I believe that he wants still to court you. You have my blessing, if you two marry.” Danielle had a tight grip on her husband’s hand squeezing the hand painfully. This is a warning not to screw it up.

Cyrus knew that he is going to be killed by his wife, if he tries something stupid. So, he answered: “I will also support you, but please wait some time, if you are going to have children.” Jaques was red-faced by that. Cyrus chuckled lightly at the embarrassed face of his nephew until he felt a sharp pain on his hand. His wife was squeezing his hand painfully. “Danielle, it was only a joke.” Danielle’s face was full of pain. She said in a pained voice: “No, Cyrus, but the contractions started.” Both males started to panic and Jaques quickly ran to the floo to call the healers from the hospital. He quickly explained that his aunt has contractions and the healers quickly came through the floo. They quickly examined Danielle and managed to help her through the contractions.

One of the healers asked: “Lady Greengrass, I would really suggest, you come with us to the hospital since these contractions are the first stages of birth.” Danielle sighed and nodded. It is better to be safe than sorry.

After Danielle left, Drake flooed to Greengrass Manor to inform them about the plea deal. Jaques and Cyrus were interrupted in what they are going to do, when an elf popped in and informed them that Attorney Drake had arrived. Cyrus greeted the man, when they met up with him in the formal meeting room. Cyrus greeted him: “Mr. Drake, welcome to Greengrass Manor. Take a seat.” The Greengrass lord turned his attention to one of his house elves, after he sat down. “Blinky, bring us some tea and biscuits for us.” Cyrus returned his attention to the attorney and asked: “What can I do for you?”

The man sat down and started: “Lord Greengrass, Mr. Greengrass, I have been discussing the plea deal with Amelia and she is offering you, Jaques, that you do 100 community hours in St. Mungos and you would receive a warning. It would go into your record for five years. Afterwards, it would be wiped out. Furthermore, you can continue your education and get your NEWTs since the charges are not affecting your education.” Cyrus nodded and was massaging his bearded chin. He knew that this punishment is fair. Turning his attention to Jaques, the boy was looking down in shame. Cyrus rubbed his back and told him: “Jaques, don’t be sad. I know that it could have been avoided, but I am not blaming you for your current situation completely. Mostly, I blame Yaxley for your current predicament.” Jaques looked up and said: “Okay, I take the plea deal.”

Drake smiled and said: “Good. I will inform Amelia and Bartemius and in a few days, your trial will take place. It will be short. Don’t panic.” The man left the formal meeting room and returned back to the ministry, whereas Jaques and Cyrus were taking care of Daphne until her mother returns. Jaques was better at it than Cyrus due to the fact that he is a male bearer and he was more maternal to the little blond ice princess than Cyrus.

Ministry, Courtroom 14, April 15th, 2002

The trial of Jaques Greengrass was small and the judge, Helena Kirby, had not much to do since Jaques accepted the plea deal from Amelia and was sentenced to 100 community hours in St. Mungos and was given a warning. The judge also added that the record would be removed in five years and that he can continue his education and get his NEWTs since the charges are not educational relevant. Furthermore, Jaques would start the community hours tomorrow and would continue to work them off until he is finished.

When Jaques left the courtroom and was on his way home, someone closed his eyes with his hands. He became terrified, but relaxed and smiled, when a familiar, husky voice whispered into his ears: “I have missed you, Jaques.” Turning around, he was surprised to see Anton and blushed. The Abbott heir adored the blush and wanted to take Jaques here and now, but doing it here in front of a public courtroom would be really bad. Anton had always been in love with the ice prince of Slytherin, but he didn’t know, how to approach him. His closest friends told him to confess, but he was too afraid and had been dragging his feet much to his best friends’ annoyance until he had the courage to ask Lady Greengrass to court their nephew. He was devasted, when he learned that Jaques ran away and Anton blamed himself that if he wasn’t such a pansy, then, Jaques wouldn’t have run away. He was furious, when he found out, what Alfred Greengrass tried to do to his own son. His friends and his head of house were there to help him through and after some time, Anton requested from his father to help the Greengrasses in their feud against the Mulcibers. His father supported the decision since his dad had known about the fact that he wanted to court Jaques Greengrass and he supported the relationship knowing that he was gay. Now, he is happy that Jaques has returned and when he found out through Lady Greengrass that Jaques had feelings for him, Anton didn’t want to miss his chance to meet his crush from school.

Both went into a corner, where they wouldn’t be seen by anyone and they started kissing each other like their lives depended on it. Jaques felt like he was on cloud nine, when they started to make out. He felt happier and he was lost in Anton’s lips for a time being. Unfortunately, they had to stop before Jaques’ uncle finds them and both knew that the man will not stop with his teasing.

Anton said in a sultry voice: “We are going to continue, Jay, where we started later.” Jaques became excited and he was hard, but he had willed his erection down after Anton returned back to school and quickly followed his chuckling uncle home. Jaques was embarrassed by this and tried to hide his blush.

Both Greengrass males made a visit to St. Mungos, in order to check up on his aunt, how she was doing, and Jaques’ temporary work place for his community hours. They returned back home after a long day. They were grateful that Daphne was on a play date with the Davis family. But they knew that she would return back. The Greengrass heiress never left Jaques’ side since he had returned and even she was terrified to lose her cousin again.

Greengrass Manor, April 19th, 2002

After Jaques was finished with his shift in St. Mungos, he found the manor empty. Jaques knew that his aunt is still in the hospital, but where are his uncle and his young cousin? Finding a note from his uncle that he is still in the ministry working a bit overtime and Daphne was on another playdate with Tracy. So, he was going to be alone. The boy shrugged and went to take a shower. What he didn’t know, was that he had a surprising visitor that was allowed in the manor by his aunt. That would be funny.

After Jaques dried himself with his towel and put it around his waist. The boy nearly let out a scream, when he entered his bedroom and wanted to get his pjs and briefs, and saw that Anton was waiting there for him. Jaques was red-faced since he was only dressed in his towel. Anton had signed himself of school for this weekend and wanted to see Jaques. He never would expect to meet him to be only dressed in his towel. Anton was blushing hard, but got closer to Jaques and started to have a make out session with him. He was not ready to take him to bed. Anton will wait for that since he heard that Aurelius Yaxley had dared to touch him and Jaques had still issues regarding this. It angers him, what had been done to his crush. Thankfully, the creep is going to pay for what he had done.

When the towel suddenly dropped on the floor, Jaques quickly stopped and covered himself. He was still uncomfortable, when others watched him undressed. It felt like, when Yaxley was watching him, but he was hugged by Anton and he felt more comfortable around him even though he was naked. Anton smirked, when he felt Jaques’ erection and started to stroke his member, which earned him a moan from the younger male.

Both continued with their make-out session and Anton started to undress himself completely. They laid down completely naked on Jaques’ bed. Jaques had taken Anton’s member in his mouth and started to suck it. Anton’s breath hitched a bit, but he also started to stroke Jaques’ member. It really felt good. When Anton had his release and Jaques swallowed the cum, they changed their position and it went on until Jaques felt his release coming.

After a while, when Jaques had his release, both teenagers stopped and were lying in the bed looking up at the ceiling of the canopy bed with Jaques curling up and using Anton’s bare chest as a pillow and the Abbott heir softly stroking Jaques’ back. They felt more in peace and were happy that things went well for them. Anton was terrified that in case Jaques was never found that he would have to marry Sarah Fenwick. He couldn’t stand the girl since she was a stalker and made unwanted advances towards him due to his position as Heir Abbott. Even his parents realised that the girl is up to no good and was only interested in his title and vault size and were discouraging him from meeting the girl. He had promised his parents that there was nothing between them and he confessed them that he wanted to marry Lord and Lady Greengrass’ nephew, Jaques, and that he was gay. Both parents were happy and supportive, but also a bit terrified since the Greengrasses were not be messed with, if they were angered. Both of his parents made sure to give him the push to request a courtship between him and Jaques. But when it was revealed that he was gone, it nearly crushed him. Anton blamed himself. If he had done it earlier, nothing like this would have happened. His parents were there for him and were saddened that Jaques ran away. But sadness turned into fury, when it was revealed about the illegal betrothal contract, his father supported Lord Greengrass against the Mulcibers. There was also a feud between House Abbott and House Mulciber.

He was thrilled, when Jaques was found and when Lady Greengrass revealed to him that Jaques loved him during the meeting, but was also terrified like him, Anton didn’t let anyone stop him to see Jaques again and make sure to see, if he is alright, which was the case.

Both started to fall asleep and Anton wrapped his arms around the younger male since he was terrified to lose him again.

Cyrus arrived home from work. Merlin, sometimes he hated his job since he had to work overtime. He ordered his cook elf to prepare dinner for him, his daughter and his nephew. Cyrus quickly floo-called Lady Davis to get Daphne home. His little girl was really close to Tracy Davis and he can see that those two are going to be close friends in the future. Looking around, he didn’t see his nephew. He called his nephew’s personal elf: “Vinny.”

A small house elf popped in the living room. “Master Cyrus called for Vinny.”

Cyrus had a small smile on his face and asked: “Do you know, where Jaques is?”

Cyrus was a little bit surprised, when the elf started to giggle and said: “He’s in his bedroom, Master. He’s had a special visitor.”

The Greengrass lord raised his eyebrow and quickly made his way to his nephew’s room. He opened the bedroom door only slightly and saw his nephew and the Abbott heir lying together. Both were sleeping and wrapped around each other with their arms. Furthermore, it seems like that both are naked. Cyrus was ready to storm the room, but stopped himself, when the elf explained to him that they didn’t take that step. Cyrus let out a silent sigh of relief and planned to put up a contraception ward on his nephew’s room since both would not be stopped from tying the knot. He really wanted to avoid a teen pregnancy. The man quickly made his way to the dining room, in order to greet Lady Davis since she would arrive with Daphne soon and he didn’t want to wake the two teens up.

For some time, Lady Davis arrived with his little girl and Cyrus welcomed them back. Amanda Davis asked: “How is Danielle? Is she okay? Her admittance to St. Mungos was so sudden.”

Cyrus reassured her: “She is alright, Amanda, Danielle had gotten her first contractions and to be better safe than sorry, she decided to follow the healer’s advice to be admitted to St. Mungos before she could give birth.” Amanda nodded in agreement and hoped that her best friend would be alright.

Looking around, Amanda noticed that Jaques isn’t here and she asked: “Where is Jaques?”

Cyrus had a grin and answered: “Well, he is in his room. He had a special guest there. So, I didn’t disturb them.” Much to Cyrus’ dismay, Amanda let out a squeal. She answered: “I bet my entire dowery that it is with Heir Anton Abbott.” Cyrus’ grin widened, which made Amanda even squeal an octave higher. “I want to see them.” Cyrus quickly stopped her and said: “Amanda, it wouldn’t be prudent to disturb them or do you want to see them naked and annoyed?” The woman quickly stopped in her tracks and returned back to her seat shocked. “Did they?” Cyrus quickly answered: “No, they didn’t. My wife would have committed a massacre, if they did it.” Amanda let out a sigh of relief and said: “Be happy that they didn’t take that step. I wouldn’t be in your shoes, if Jaques got pregnant at 16.” Cyrus shuddered in fear at that. His wife would have killed him, then, Jaques and then, again him, if that had happened.

Amanda wanted to continue, when suddenly, Jaques and Anton entered the living room completely dressed. Both adults had wide grins and the Davis matriarch asked grinning like the cat that got the cream: “Did you two have fun?”

Jaques blushed slightly and Anton looked away not wanting to meet the woman’s gaze. Both fidgeted slightly and said: “Well…”

Amanda quickly said: “Don’t answer, sweeties. I don’t need the juicy details about your bedroom activities.” Both boys blushed furiously. They forgot that the manor does have small magical beings with big ears that could listen to anything.

Cyrus turned his attention to the Abbott heir. “Heir Anton Abbott, I have heard from my wife that you want to court my nephew.” Amanda rolled her eyes at that. There is no need for that to be official. It is clear, they love each other, but it seems like that Cyrus is enjoying to tease those two love birds.

Anton’s face was crimson and answered: “Yes, I want to marry Jaques, because I love him and he is the love of my life.” The Abbott heir looked at Jaques lovingly and had his arm around his waist. He isn’t ashamed that he is in love with another male. This answer was honest and earnest and Cyrus could tell that the boy really loves his nephew.

Much to Amanda’s annoyance and Cyrus’ entertainment, the Greengrass lord built up a tension in the room until he smiled and answered: “I accept your proposal. I mean, Danielle would have murdered me and buried my corpse in the garden, if I didn’t.” Amanda snorted: “That would be the easy way to die. I think Danielle would have become a little bit more creative.” Everyone laughed at the joke and Cyrus just huffed not that he was disagreeing with her since she is right. Danielle is dangerous, if angered. After some time, both Amanda and Anton left the manor, in order to return back home.

Jaques still was red-faced about this embarrassing meeting. The worst thing is that it would become known in the pureblood social circles that he is now betrothed to Anton through Lady Davis. He is a bit terrified, how certain people are going to react to Anton’s and his betrothal. He remembered that during his time in school, there is a certain girl that had basically stalked Anton and declared them as a couple even though Anton never liked the girl. It was Sarah Fenwick. She was obsessed with Anton and the girl only dreamed of becoming Lady Abbott. There was also Dumbledore. Jaques never trusted his former headmaster and his light fools, which also includes the Fenwicks, and after his aunt and uncle explained to him, what the man was planning to do to Corban Yaxley and his wife, he was disgusted by his old headmaster’s plans. Furthermore, the man would support the basically non-existent relationship between Anton and Sarah, in order to sway the Abbott family to his side, which would never work since the Abbotts may be light, but they have been neutral during the war. Jaques was sure that Sarah Fenwick will throw a temper tantrum that he was going to marry Anton and not her.

Cyrus said: “Jaques, we are going to make the announcement of your betrothal after Yaxley’s trial in May. We don’t want to endanger you and Anton.” Jaques nodded in agreement knowing that after that man is in jail, he is not going to be safe from him. He was sure of that. After Anton and Amanda left, all three enjoyed their dinner and through Jaques’ maternal instincts, the boy was able to put his baby cousin to bed.

Cyrus and Jaques both went to bed, when it was really late and Jaques wanted to enjoy his weekend before he had to go back to do his community hours.

DMLE, April 22nd, 2002

Corban, Amelia, Kingsley and Proudfoot were frustrated. Jaques’ testimony is maybe damning, but it isn’t enough to arrest Aurelius for the attempted breaking of a soulbond and attempted murder. Clara was also involved in this meeting, but their children remained with the Malfoys since they shouldn’t be involved in this. The woman was thinking, how to make her brother-in-law pay for his crimes and transgressions. She was wracking her brain, how to make sure that Aurelius paid for his crimes. Clara felt really sorry, what Jaques had endured under that man’s hand and the boy had even apologised for what he had done, but both brushed it off that he wasn’t to be blamed for the issue and wished him good luck in his own engagement. Amelia also investigated the death of Alan Cane, but she could only prove that the man’s death wasn’t accidental since someone used a rare, untraceable poison on him.

They were at a loss until Clara had an idea. “Maybe the Unspeakables could help us. Corban, you told me once that Lords Rowle and Rookwood had been spies for the ministry and are very well known Unspeakables in the DoM. Maybe, they would be able to help us in this situation.” The other four attendants had to admit that the idea didn’t sound bad. Amelia quickly sent a patronus to the DoM and requested Unspeakables Rookwood and Rowle. They waited for the time being thinking, how the Unspeakables are going to help them.

When the said Unspeakables arrived, they were thinking, why they were summoned. Entering the office, both saw Aurors Yaxley, Proudfoot, Shacklebolt and Bones and Corban’s wife sitting and planning. Augustus and Thorfinn looked at each other and had to admit that this meeting would not be funny. Augustus asked: “Head Auror Bones, you wanted to see us.”

“Yes, Clara thought that you two maybe knew, how we should deal with Aurelius Yaxley.” Amelia didn’t know, why Clara thought that those two would be able to help them.

Both looked at Clara cluelessly and the woman asked the two Unspeakables: “Unspeakbales Rookwood, Rowle, I wanted to ask you, if there is a ritual that would protect a witch or wizard against another ritual like a soulbond-breaking ritual that Aurelius wants to use on me.” Both had a thoughtful look and Augustus suddenly realised, what Clara was planning. That was very devious of her.

Augustus explained: “There is a ritual that would negate all rituals on an individuum. It’s a ritual that would allow us to call upon Lady Magic and to request her protection for you and your husband.”

The aurors in the room were happy and thought that the ritual would be a way to stop Aurelius Yaxley.

Augustus quickly said: “But first, we need to have the approval of our head of department before we would be allowed to use the ritual. This would take a day in case it is an emergency and since Clara’s life is endangered, it can be classified as an emergency. We will file the request as a risky case and make sure that on April 24th, the ritual could be conducted on Clara.”

Many agreed with the plan and it would be entertaining to see Aurelius’ plan fail.

Department of Mysteries, April 24th, 2002

When the request to conduct the protection ritual on Clara was approved by the head of the DoM since the woman is clearly in danger. Both Unspeakables worked hard to get the needed materials, in order to help their friend and his wife against his brother.

Clara was less than pleased, when she was lying on a cold stone table. She swore, when this was over, then, Aurelius would suffer. Both men started to chant, when everything was prepared and they called upon Lady Magic to help them. Lady Magic felt a pull and she appeared in a ritual chamber of the DoM. The Department of Mystery was always one of her favourite places and she was always curious on what, her children were working here. Once, the Unspeakables annoyed her brother, Time, with their time turner and Lady Magic restricted the time turner to six hours, which was acceptable for her brother’s standard. Originally, Time wanted to curse them, but Lady Magic stopped him by explaining that the curiosity of witches and wizards should not be hindered and he agreed on the restriction on the time turner. Furthermore, the person would age a little bit faster as punishment, if they are overusing the time turner. But back to the fact, why she was summoned.

She was here, because one of her children is in danger. Lady Magic was furious that someone is planning to break a soulbond, in order to save the so-called family honour. She would have liked to have some words on that certain individual and his accomplice, but Lady Magic can’t deal with that person right now. She had to protect her child from harm.

With a few quick tugs with her own magic and a shield around the soulbond, it should be enough to stop the ritual that Aurelius Yaxley is planning to use.

Both Unspeakables watched as Lady Magic put up protections around Clara and waited patiently until she was finished.

After a while, she turned her attention to the two men in the room. Lady Magic said in a lyrical voice: “I am finished with the protections. Clara should be protected from the soulbond-breaking ritual and make sure that you punish the fool for treating my gift like trash.” Both men nodded. They knew that they can’t allow Aurelius Yaxley to run around free.

Before Lady Magic left, the entity said: “After his arrest, you would be able to find more evidence against certain individuals and make sure that the world is safer.” With that, she left the two Unspeakables, who were clueless about the message. Maybe after Aurelius Yaxley’s conviction, there would be evidence against some people, who had worked for Yaxley, but they had to wait and see.

Fenwick Estate, April 26th, 2002

Something was in the air and Albus Dumbledore could feel it. Today, Aurelius Yaxley is going to take his sister-in-law as hostage and destroy the soulbond with Corban. It would maybe kill her, but he didn’t care since she was a hindrance to his plans. The woman had been distrustful towards him and had stood in his way to lead the Yaxley children to the light. Now, she wouldn’t stay in his way. His older followers also felt the same thing and they were ready to gain a new ally. Sadly, Dumbledore’s plan will not work and it would be destroyed.

Arthur also felt that something big is going to happen. He was a little edgy regarding the Yaxleys, but he was sure that the others had a contingency plan to stop Aurelius Yaxley from using the ritual. Arthur was disgusted that Dumbledore is counting on Aurelius being successful with his plan, but he really is not surprised. Clara had always distrusted Dumbledore and the woman had become a target from both fractions.

Albus refocused back to the reason, why the meeting was taking place in Benjy’s home. He found a way to ban a certain potion from the curriculum and it is the tracking potion that the seventh years had to brew. This potion should be handled to a professional and not to school students. Albus laid down his plan to ban the tracking potion from the curriculum, which was agreed upon since the students are not responsible enough to brew such a potion even though all seventh years are adults. Albus would face many problems regarding this nomination since many would disagree with him about the seventh years.

Arthur was glad that Dumbledore had made the meeting on the day, where they were going to set up Yaxley and make sure to arrest him. The aurors put a tracker on Clara and in case, it is a Yaxley property, Corban would be able to enter the property without any problems since his blood cannot be excluded. The man is still member of that family.

Albus planned to discuss with his followers next week about the death of Clara Yaxley and how they could sway Corban to their side.

Hogsmeade

Clara was walking around the village and noticed that she was followed. She quickened her steps trying to get the persistent stalker of her, but it was fruitless. The woman knew that it is Aurelius and he was after her. The man was also fast and was clear hellbent on capturing her.

Turning left in a corner, the woman made sure that they were in a public place, where the man would become frustrated since he couldn’t attack her in front of witnesses.

This had been going on until Aurelius got tired running in circles and quickly stuns the woman, when she tried to turn left in the same corner, where there would be many witnesses. Now, he has her and it is time to do the ritual, in order to break the soulbond. His brother should be grateful that he is freeing him from a gold-digging mudblood whore. Then, he will deal with those filthy halfbloods that are his nephews and his niece and then, his line would be clean. Sadly, the man didn’t notice that Clara was protected since she is wearing the mark of protection from Lady Magic. The ritual, Aurelius will conduct, would fail since Lady Magic’s protection will negate the ritual. Aurelius will notice this, when it is too late. To make matters worse, the ritual can only be conducted once on a full moon. A second time is dangerous and it could kill the caster.

Aurelius had to admit that it was too easy, but he was frustrated to capture her since he knew that the bitch had been playing with him. Now, it is time to make her pay for besmirching his family name and turning his brother away from the right path. Aurelius took out the portkey to the cottage, where he will conduct the ritual and quickly portkeyed to his destination, where he will keep the woman stunned. She will only wake up after the deed is done and Aurelius is going to teach the bitch a lesson for messing up with a pureblood family. It would be excruciating and painful, what he is going to do to her and he couldn’t wait for that. With a sadistic glee, the Yaxley heir left the room and started to prepare himself for the ritual.

Corban and the aurors knew that Clara had been kidnapped and Aurelius had taken her away in a cottage that belonged to his brother. Through Jaques, they found out that the man had bought a cottage recently, where he would conduct the ritual tomorrow night. Thankfully, the teen had managed to tell them the exact location of the cottage and the aurors had been sent to observe the cottage. Aurelius had put up his own wards and for that reason, they had a team of ward and curse breakers, in order to enter the property. Furthermore, Amelia casted a recording spell on Clara, which would record the ritual, and make sure that Aurelius is toast.

Now, they had to be patient. Corban was uneasy. His wife had participated to be the bait. Corban didn’t want that, but Clara told him that Aurelius would find many other ways to get his hands on her. No matter what they are going to do, Aurelius will try to do it again and again. Apart from that, she is also well protected. It is the fastest way to get rid of him, if she plays the bait, because no matter what they would do, his brother would never give up until the soulbond is broken.

Aurelius’ cottage, April 27th, 2002

When the full moon had risen, Aurelius Yaxley started to conduct the ritual of breaking the soulbond between his brother and the bitch. After he finished with the final chant, the man watched in a maniacal glee and in exhaustion, when the dark magic started to do its work to destroy the bond.

The ritual magic tried to tear the soulbond into pieces, but it stopped and dissolved itself since the protection of Lady Magic had started to kick in. The protections were so strong that Aurelius had been blasted of Clara and hit his head on the wall. The man was shocked and dizzy that the ritual failed, but how? When he had recovered from the blast, Aurelius felt that the wards around the cottage were starting to weaken and after some time, they fell. He was furious, it seems like that this was a trap and he needed to escape before the aurors could get here. He knew that it must be the ministry’s curse and ward breaker, who have managed to dismantle the wards around the cottage. And he was also sure that the aurors are right behind them. What Aurelius didn’t notice, was that the stunning spell on Clara wore off and the woman silently managed to get her wand from the table. She quickly stunned and restrained Aurelius and gave the aurors the signal that it was safe to enter.

Corban sighed in relief, when his wife came out safely from the cottage. He felt a tug at the soulbond and he was terrified that the ritual was successful, but thankfully, it was the only thing that he had felt before the tug stopped and the soulbond remained. The auror sighed in relief, when his wife came out. He quickly hugged his wife and led her out of the cottage. Clara was quickly sent to St. Mungos, so that she could be checked, if everything was alright.

The aurors quickly entered the cottage and put magic-restraining cuffs on Aurelius and rennervated and removed the restrains him. The man was led away to the ministry holding cells by the aurors. Aurelius started to protest and that his father will make them pay for treating him like this. Sadly for the Yaxley heir, the evidence was clear and now, he was going to suffer for his actions. This time, there was no escaping justice.

Corban made his way to the holding cells and took a look at his brother. Aurelius was not in the mood to see his brother. He demanded: “What do you want? Come here to gloat that I got caught. How could you abandon our family for that mudblood whore? I would have done you a favour.”

Corban took a deep breath and said: “It is not me, who has abandoned the family. It was you, father and Seraphina. When I found out that Clara is my soulmate, I started to research about soulmates and found out that she was my other half. Without her, my life would have been terrible since I would have felt that something is missing, but I wouldn’t know what. Soulmates are sacred, Aurelius, and a gift from Lady Magic. And you tried to destroy that due to your so-called standing in the pureblood circles. Aurelius, open your eyes. No one wants to associate with our family that treats a soulmate couple like trash.”

Aurelius sneered: “Where would you know that?”

Corban really wanted to slam his head on the near wall. “Aurelius, have you even heard the rumours regarding our family. From what I see, you ignored the content of the rumours. Mother did so much damage to our house’s standing. She like you tried to stop a soulbond and it disgusted many Lords and Ladies how callous she was since a majority knew that a soulmate is sacred and a gift from Lady Magic and it is an insult to her, if you try to break it. Many Ladies told her off and said that if she is attempting to break a soulbond, then, she was no longer welcome to the ladies’ luncheon. It costed us our family’s standing in the pureblood circle, when she was kicked out. You should also know that Clara is also an active member of the ladies’ luncheon due to her position as Lady Evandrus. Mother never accepted that loss and that she was replaced by my wife. Her ego couldn’t stand that and that is the reason why she lied about Clara. And worst, you believed in her lies. You thought that Clara was damaging our standing in the pureblood circles, but in reality, it was quite the opposite. But I can talk here until I am blue in the face since you wouldn’t believe me.”

When Corban noticed that his younger brother didn’t accept his reasoning, he left the cells sighing. His brother is irredeemable. How has it come to this? His family is starting to fall apart and now, his brother is going to be convicted and the future of his family is now in jeopardy. Corban knew that his father will try everything to deny him the heirship and get Aurelius out, but since the House Yaxley is a patriarchy, there was barely anything he can do, and the evidence is clear as day. Furthermore, his brother was caught in the act. His father would be stuck.

Corban quickly left the ministry and went home. It was already midnight and his wife is waiting in the hospital.

Malfoy Manor, April 28th, 2002

Many celebrated the arrest of Aurelius Yaxley. When Corban and Clara, who looked unharmed, came with their children and announced the arrest of Aurelius, everyone sighed in relief and Lucius opened a bottle of his best wine, in order to celebrate the occasion.

After some time, everyone calmed down and they started their pre-meeting regarding the board meeting tomorrow. Arthur informed them that Albus is planning to ban the tracking potion from the curriculum. Severus started to hate the man for trying to dumb down the students and why the hell is the man targeting his potion class. Corban sighed and answered: “And how does Dumbledore expect the aurors to brew tracking potions, if there is a missing case? The aurors had to be ready to know, how to brew this particular potion since the time period of a missing person is very short.” Many agreed and they were sure that Corban would be able to make the protest since he is an auror and additionally, no one would be able to deny his argument.

But in order to stop Dumbledore’s nomination, they needed a good distraction. Lucius decided to do something regarding the most boring class in Hogwarts. “We need to do something about Binns. The man or better to say the ghost is teaching for nearly a century in this school and he is the most unsuccessful teacher that does exist. Only a quarter, who is attending his class, does manage a NEWT in history and half of them manages their OWLs.” Many nodded in agreement. Most of them had attended Binns’ class as students and found the teacher and the class to be dreadful and boring. They only managed to get their OWLs and NEWTs in history by self-studying and it seems like that the history class is getting worse. Apart from that, how can Binns correct assignments and tests, when everything goes through him, and then, there are the final exams and midterm tests since both are standardised and what Binns is teaching isn’t enough since both exams were covering more than the goblin wars. They needed a teacher in this subject that knows, what to teach and how teach. It is time to bring some changes to the school that would benefit the students.

It was discussed for the time being and they decided to get rid of Binns since the man or the ghost is a failure of a teacher since he is still stuck in the goblin wars and the education of the next generation is endangered through the falling standards in the NEWTs and the OWLs. Apart from that, if the money issue is brought up, Pandora will help them in that instance since she has access to the Hogwarts Vaults.

Narcissa suggested to introduce the ICW curriculum for DADA in the primary school. The students would learn the theory part of defence and Dumbledore wouldn’t be able to stop the curriculum since the man can’t claim that the theory is dangerous. She knew that the theory part is less dangerous than the practical portion and the old fool wouldn’t be able to do anything.

Afterwards, they returned back talking about Jaques. Cyrus just grinned and said: “Well, my nephew is officially betrothed to Anton Abbott.” There were many squeals from the ladies in the room. The males had to rub their ears, but were happy. The women in the room were already discussing about the wedding and children, but Cyrus quickly interrupted: “Please, we have enough time for planning a wedding since Anton had to finish school this year and Jaques is planning to redo his sixth year during the summer and finish his NEWTs.” Many nodded in understanding, but there was still excitement in the air.

Amelia said: “I am also glad that Jaques provided us with enough evidence against Aurelius Yaxley. It must have been difficult for him to provide us the memories regarding the sexual abuse and assault that he had suffered under the man’s hand.” Many wanted to make Aurelius suffer for what he had done to Jaques. The boy still had nightmares about the events in Knockturn Alley, but thankfully, they are becoming less and less through the mind healer sessions.

Cyrus and Jaques agreed that they would make Jaques’ return public three days before the trial and would explain, what had happened to him, in order to turn the public against Aurelius. Rita made sure to prepare everything for the upcoming article since it would be a good story. The announcement of the betrothal had to wait until it is safe. It would also put pressure on the Yaxleys apart from Corban, who doesn’t give a shit regarding his brother and had made it public, what he had been trying to do to his wife. It would make things really hard for the dark fraction to defend the man. It would also discredit Voldemort’s followers even more.

Things are going to change for the better.

Headmaster office

It was late in the evening and Albus was preparing himself for the school board session tomorrow and his plans regarding Corban Yaxley. He was sure that Clara is dead and now it is about time to sway the man to his side. Another benefit would be the access Corban has within the head aurors. He may have Rufus and some, who were owning him, but he needed Corban, in order to get access to the dark. Albus was plotting, when the evening edition of the Daily Prophet landed on his desk. He gave the owl something to nibble and opened the newspaper. The headline was blaring: “HEIR AURELIUS YAXLEY ARRESTED!” Albus was a bit surprised that the man got caught, but he started to read the article.

When Albus was finished reading, the man was stunned. How didn’t the man manage to kill Clara and how did the ritual fail? All his plans depended on Aurelius’ success and Clara’s death, but now, everything was ruined since the woman is still alive and Aurelius Yaxley didn’t even succeed into breaking the soulbond. This was a setback and there is nothing he can do, but let go of his plans regarding Corban.

Albus will discuss this with his followers before the Wizengamot meeting in May. He has to rework his plans since Aurelius failed horribly and Corban will not be easily manipulated since his wife is alive. He growled. He was so close to gain control over the man, but it had failed and now, he had to deal with the fallout.

Phineas grinned, when he had seen the old fool’s resigned face. It seems like that one of his plans didn’t work at all. He can’t wait to see Albus ruined and removed from his powerful positions in the Wizengamot, school board, ICW and his position as headmaster. It would be priceless and the best thing is that he had the front row to watch Dumbledore’s loss of control and power. Phineas couldn’t wait. Now, he had to inform Narcissa about Albus’ reaction regarding the arrest of Aurelius Yaxley.

Yaxley Manor

Gerald and Seraphina Yaxley were panicking. Aurelius had been arrested. They were notified by the ministry this morning about his arrest and now it became public knowledge. This was a nightmare. Both cursed Corban for what had happened to Aurelius, but when they inspected the newspaper article in detail, they found out that Corban was not even involved in Aurelius’ arrest due to his familial relation, but he was still to blame since he married that infernal mudblood.

Gerald called his family lawyer and demanded from him to defend and represent his son, in order to get him free before things got worse for them. The man quickly nodded and started to work. First, he viewed the evidence under the watchful eye of Amelia Bones. The man looked over the file and had to admit that the evidence was really solid and that Aurelius had been under observation by the aurors. The charges of kidnapping, attempted murder and the attempted breaking of a soul bond couldn’t be easily dismissed since it was recorded and there were multiple memories of an anonymous undercover auror in Knockturn, Clara Yaxley and Jaques Greengrass, what the man had been planning to do. Furthermore, there were many pictures of the place, where Aurelius tried to conduct the ritual and the worst thing is that he was caught in the act, which is making things even harder to get the case dismissed. Then, there were the charges filed by the Greengrass family for exploitation of a minor, sexual abuse, harassment and assault on a minor and the evidence was damning since Jaques provided the memories and testified against him. It was difficult for the younger Greengrass, but with the help of a mind healer, Jaques was able to provide the memories about the instances, when Aurelius had sexually abused and assaulted him. Furthermore, there are also the charges of buying, selling and being in possession of illegal goods and running an illegal business. There were additionally the memories of the clients of Jaques Greengrass a.k.a. Jack McLean and the boy himself provided the evidence by allowing the property to be searched. Charles realised that this was a hopeless case and he can tell that Gerald was not going to like it that he can’t bail his son out.

After he was finished with his viewing, the man informed Gerald and Seraphina that the case is hopeless since the evidence is solid and this time, there is no escaping justice. Seraphina was crying and Gerald was furious. What are they going to do? Everything is going in the wrong direction. They had to stop this since with a conviction, Aurelius would be stripped from his title as Heir Yaxley and Corban would regain his position as heir irrevocably. Gerald wouldn’t be able to stop this and had to accept Corban back. He also can’t announce Seraphina as heiress since the Yaxley family is patriarchal and Corban is the only male that can take the title. Gerald was stuck. What was he supposed to do now? His house’s honour is again in jeopardy and this time, he can’t fix it. Gerald hoped that there is a way out.

Seraphina was angry. Her brother, Aurelius, is going to end up in Azkaban and her disgrace of an older brother is going to retake his position as Heir Yaxley. There must be a way for her to claim the title as heiress, but since the Yaxleys were patriarchal, her chances were really slim since she had to get rid of Corban and his sons, but that is too risky since she could end up in Azkaban. Her father also can’t will her the heirship and the headship due to the family clauses. They are now in a tight. Why didn’t Aurelius leave Corban and his family alone? Everything could have been avoided with that, but now, things are looking bad.

Both father and daughter are thinking overtime, how to save Aurelius, but they have come to nothing. They hoped that things would not get worse.

School board, April 29th, 2002

Another school board meeting had started and one of Albus’ light fools made sure that his nomination was the first to be heard. Amelia was ready to fall asleep. Beside her was Corban, who was trying to remain awake, but was barely successful. Albus isn’t the only one, who could put them to sleep. His followers are as good as him. Corban whispered: “If that man doesn’t finish, I am going to sleep.” Amelia whispered back: “Corban, be polite. You can’t fall asleep in a formal meeting. The man is doing his nomination.” But the former Yaxley heir just grumbled silently about the nominations taking too long and wishing his wife would suffer this. Amelia chuckled. There is nothing to be done, then, to suffer under those fools. Corban also noticed some looks his father had sent him during the board meeting. He knew those looks. It means that he needed to speak with him.

When the nomination finally was finished, many let out a sigh of relief. Some muttered a “Finally” and Albus continued with the session, if there were any other nominations.

Lucius rose his wand first and he was chosen to speak. Albus looked resigned. He didn’t know, what will happen. The Malfoys are wildcards like the Lestrange and the Rosier lords in the dark section. It could be annoying. Lucius started to speak: “I am nominating to remove Binns from the staff since he is unsuccessful in his teachings and his class is seen as a nap time by the students.”

Albus’ eyes rose in shock and tried: “There is no need for that, my boy, Cuthbert is a loyal staff member and had been teaching for decades.”

Lucius countered: “Headmaster, I don’t want to be contrary, but he isn’t a successful teacher and his class is seen by the students as a nap time. According to this statistic, only half of the students manage their OWLs and only a quarter manages their NEWTs.” Everyone received the statistic and were shocked and horrified about these revelations.

Albus was not happy. There was no way, he will allow this. He needed Binns, in order to dumb down the history class. Apart from that, he was able to use Binns’ wage to fund his side projects since the man is dead. Albus said: “I know that Cuthbert may have some difficulties as he is a ghost, but he has been doing his job very well in the last decades and you must be exaggerating that Cuthbert is so bad and that so many students hadn’t been able to pass their OWLs and NEWTs. Apart from that, we don’t have enough money to hire a new member of staff.”

But Pandora countered: “Headmaster, there is enough gold to hire hundreds of teachers. I know about the contents of the Hogwarts Vaults. This is not an excuse. We can easily replace Professor Binns with someone living and competent with a history mastery and make sure that the students are learning something useful in the history class. It is an embarrassment that our students are not learning anything from Binns and are failing their history OWLs and NEWTs. This issue should have been taken earlier, but it isn’t late to make this change.”

Albus curses himself. He had temporarily forgotten that Pandora is Lady Ravenclaw and has access to the vaults like him. Many of his followers were arguing about the change. The younger generation wants Binns gone, whereas his older followers want the man to remain since they knew about his plans better. He needed to discuss this with his followers. He curses Lucius Malfoy for bringing this up to the board’s attention.

After Aurelia took over, Pandora was the one, who rose her wand, since she wanted to introduce the ICW primary school curriculum for DADA. When Aurelia chose Pandora, the woman nominated for the primary school to introduce the ICW primary school curriculum for DADA. Like with Charms and Transfiguration, the curriculum had only the theory part from first to fifth year and the students would be even more prepared to take their OWLs at the end of their fifth year in the primary school.

On the point of Edward Podmore’s nomination regarding the removal of the tracking potion from the potion curriculum, Corban Yaxley made his protest by pointing out that the trainee aurors are even expected to know, how to brew that particular potion in case of a missing case. The aurors in the school board agreed with him and didn’t want the nomination to pass since in the past, the training aurors had to reteach many of the trainee aurors, how to brew some potions that Professor Slughorn didn’t teach during his potion class. Many agreed with him since it is taking a lot of time to reteach the aurors everything, what they had missed during their time in school.

The other governors were waiting patiently for Dumbledore and his followers. Many were chattering with each other until Dumbledore was finished and returned back to his seat as Head Governor.

Albus asked Aurelia, if there was a new nomination. The man frowned, when Aurelia announced that Pandora made the nomination to introduce the ICW primary school curriculum of DADA. Albus didn’t know, how to counter the curriculum since he is out of excuses, why the curriculum is a bad idea.

When the vote came, Podmore’s nomination failed epically. Albus was seething and Edward was outraged about the failed vote. The second vote had a majority and Albus now had to look for a new history professor. He thought that Andromeda would be good for the job. The woman had a mastery in history and law. Maybe she would help him in this endeavour. The last nomination had also a majority even though he and his followers voted against the curriculum.

With that the board meeting came to an end.

When the meeting came to an end, Corban was ready to go home until he was stopped by his father. Well, so much for peace and quiet. He asked his father in slight annoyance: “What can I do for you, father?” There were times, Corban once respected the man, when he was still a kid, but now he doesn’t even care about him. Gerald withheld a growl, but remained calm. Corban lacked respect for him. “I need to talk to you about your brother’s arrest. There must be something that you can do for him. You need to understand, Corban, that these are tedious times for our house and our family had to stay united since your brother’s arrest could be our downfall. You may have been rebelling against us, but now, it isn’t the time for your foolery. You need to leave that woman that you dare to call wife and those children. She is the reason, why our noble house is crumbling.”

Corban wanted to snap at his father, but remained calm and he answered: “There is nothing, I can do since I am not allowed to have a role in this case due to my familial relation. Furthermore, why should I help him, when he tried to kill my soulmate, my second half. And before you go on a rant that the soul bond is faked, then, tell that to the goblins.” Gerald shivered at that. He wasn’t a fool to start a war with the goblin nation, but he is cursing them for ruining everything. “And lastly father, my wife isn’t to blame that the noble house of Yaxley is ruined. It is you, mother, Aurelius and Seraphina. You all have been attacking my marriage, because it didn’t fit in your world view that my soulmate is a muggleborn.”

Gerald really was getting tired of that argument and tried: “But she is not the right woman. Can’t you see it?”

Corban was getting annoyed. “No, I married my soulmate, my other half, I will not let anyone dictate me, how I should lead my life. Soulmates are a gift from Lady Magic and with your attitude, you are directly insulting her.” Gerald was really getting desperate, but sadly, his son is right. Soulmates are a gift from Lady Magic and his opposition regarding his son’s marriage could be seen as a direct insult against her. Gerald is still a strong believer in Lady Magic, but in this instance, he is conflicted. Why did Lady Magic gift his eldest a mudblood as his soulmate? Out of all the fine witches, his son is married to a dirty mudblood. What did they do that they were punished like this? He had asked himself often, when his eldest had married that bitch. Corban continued: “Enough, father, leave me and my family alone. I don’t want you anywhere near my children.” With that, Corban left the Wizengamot.

Gerald was furious, but there was nothing to be done. If Corban can’t help him with this issue, then, he is out of options. Some of the members of the Wizengamot overheard the conversation. Albus was one of them and he knew that Gerald Yaxley is getting more and more desperate. He could help him, but he will not since he is the leader of the light and it could tarnish his reputation since he is helping a blood purist and dark wizard.

But first he needed to think about this school board meeting and where he went wrong with his planning. Albus dismissed his followers since he needed some time to think alone in his office and he needed to speak with Andromeda about the history position.

Hogwarts

Albus was sitting behind his desk looking out of the window towards the Black Lake. He was thinking about the lost vote during this meeting. He didn’t understand, why he had lost the vote and didn’t manage the majority to negate Malfoy’s and Pandora’s nomination. In the past, it was easy to get a majority, but now, things were harder. He had sent a message to Andromeda, in order to hire her as the new history professor since she is the only one that has a mastery in history. But the biggest question that he wants to find out is, when did he began to lose control so fast? Looking back, everything had started after the attack in Godric’s Hollow. The week after the attack, there were some things that he wasn’t able to control like the disownments of the former Lestrange trio since he wouldn’t be able to go against Augustinus Lestrange, but he thought of these little issues as small nuisances since he believed that Augustinus wants rather to have his line extincted than leaving the Lestrange fortune and seat to his great-nephews. But the revelation that there is another member of House Lestrange that would be able to claim the title sent him into a panic since it destroyed his plans regarding the House Lestrange. He still didn’t figure out, who the heir or heiress was and he was sure that Augustinus will not disclose the future Lord or Lady Lestrange to him since the man didn’t trust him at all.

Albus had theorised that the catalyst is the disownment of Sirius from the Black Family. He still couldn’t believe, how cruel Arcturus was towards his own grandson. He didn’t understand, why he would disown Sirius, but when the Daily Prophet revealed Sirius’ activities in school, he was ready to hex the man and his manhood, because from there Sirius had no one than himself to blame for his current predicament. Maybe Sirius’ disownment and Narcissa Malfoy’s announcement as Regent Black is the catalyst, why he had lost control, but he can only theorise it since even before he had lost some control, when Remus had nearly died due to a prank gone wrong and how he had to remove Lily and Remus from their perfect positions due to Horace threatening him and Minerva to use his connections to have Sirius, Remus, James and Lily expelled from Hogwarts.

Unknown to him, Lady Magic knew that the catalyst goes back, when Severus Snape found out that he was used and abused by his mother and his so-called best friend and when Antonius Prince took custody of him. When Severus betrayed Lily the first time around and revealed her true nature and her potioning ways in front of the student body, Albus had lost many followers that he would have gained through Lily Evans. Lady Magic knew that the order would have doubled through Lily, but due to Severus, the order remained small and only a few joined the order as new recruits. Then, there was the rift between Severus and his cousin, Ryan. This rift caused Voldemort to lose many followers since many Slytherins sided with Snape due to his position as Heir Prince. Lady Magic continued to watch Dumbledore and how his world is slowly crumbling.

Andromeda was confused, when Albus sent her a message that he needed to speak with her. She wasn’t sure, what was going on, but she hoped that it would be short. She had a daughter to take care of. Andromeda flooed to the headmaster’s office from her office in the law firm and saw Albus lost in thoughts. The man regained his focus and said: “Ah, hello, Andromeda. Please take a seat. Lemon drop?” Andromeda declined the candy and took a seat. Albus popped a lemon drop in his mouth and said: “I needed to speak with you about the open history professor position.”

“What!” Andromeda was shocked that Albus had to hire a history professor, but to be honest, it was about time. Binns was one of the worst teachers and many students failed their OWLs and their NEWTs.

Albus answered sadly: “The board of governors ousted Binns from his position due to the failing standards in the history class. Now, I am forced to find a new history professor and I think, you would be perfect since I can trust you that you would teach the students the right things and the children do not become corrupted. Furthermore, it wouldn’t be prudent that we lose control over the material and also the class.” Albus needed one of his people that would be able to teach the students the right information.

Andromeda nodded. She knew that the students needed to be led correctly and she will manage it for the Greater Good. Andromeda answered: “I will do it, Albus.”

Albus smiled. Good, he covered the history class and didn’t need to worry about losing control over the class.

Phineas is not happy to see another former member of the Black Family, who has turned their back on the family. He remembered that Andromeda had refused to marry Evan Rosier and ran away with a squibborn. As a result, she broke the marriage contract with the Rosiers and caused a conflict between the Houses Black and Rosier. The former Lord Rosier demanded restitution and that included the disownment of Andromeda from the Black Family. Thankfully, Evan married Regulus Black, in order to fulfil the marriage contract and they had a son, who could be the next Heir Black. Currently, Akira is the heir due to the blood adoption of Sirius and the firstborn clause since Sirius was the eldest, when Akira was blood-adopted, but that could change soon. He was sure of that.

For now, Phineas will entertain himself and watch, how Dumbledore’s world would be slowly falling apart.