Unofficial Portkey Archive

Harry Potter and The Gilded Portrait

A/N; Another fill-in chapter. As always thanks for reading. Will try and update faster. Life has been…interesting and the Holidays are coming. Marry Christmas to all!!!

PLEASE REVIEW!!!! It would be greatly appreciated!!!

Standard Disclaimers Apply

Chapter Twelve - Adjustments

Harry decided it would be best to go back to #12 and try to find out where Hermione lived from there.

After consulting a much outdated street map of London found in the Black library he at least now had a general idea where her street was located.

He apparated to Primrose Hill and made his way to a call box just outside the park. Checking the small map in the directory he found Chalot Square with no trouble.

It took him about twenty minutes to walk the distance and located the house at the end of what appeared to be a very well manicured court yard.

The formal two-story house was twice as large as the Dursley's with bright white siding and black shutters. Lights lit up many of the windows on the first floor. The big crystal chandelier behind the cut-glass arched transom over the large black front door cast multi-colored prisms of light across the front yard.

As Harry made his way across the dark shadowy yard he constantly looked around. With the exception of a few barking dogs off somewhere in the distance the area seemed deserted. He was about to step up onto the front porch when he stopped.

Heeding the words of the Headmistress he decided to make his way around to the back. As he swung around the left side he encountered a high wood fence that blocked the rear of the house from view. He noticed a gate in the fence up close to the side wall.

He was a bit surprised when a simple alohomora let him through. He made his way silently and carefully around the side to the rear. There was a large stone patio off the back of the house with what looked like a trellis over it. The trellis was covered with all manner of ivy and grape vines. Ornate wrought-iron chairs and a glass top table set under the canopy like an outdoor café.

As Harry stepped onto the stone patio he was suddenly jerked off his feet, flipped upside down and suspended in mid air. As he dangled there confused and disoriented he realized he had stepped in a trap similar to the one he encountered in the maze during the Tri-Wizard tournament.

He heard the rear entrance of the house open slowly. He knew Hermione had heard him. She probably had alarms going off all over the house.

"Who's out there?" He heard her call out from the shadows, "Identify yourself! You won't be able to get in!"

"So I've discovered," Harry said. He couldn't help but chuckle.

"Harry?" Hermione responded with exasperation. He heard her approach as he felt himself slowly lowered to the stone, "Why didn't you just come to the front door? I would have let you in."

Instead of trying to explain what McGonagall had told him he just lay there looking up at her dark shadow hovering above him for a moment.

"This is so much more fun!" He laughed.

"Well," she said as she reached down to give him a hand to help him to his feet, "I guess I know my traps and wards work anyway."

"Don't get many visitors do you?" He asked as he came to his feet.

"You're the first actually," Hermione said with a grimace, "Come on inside before we wake the neighbors."

He followed Hermione through the darkness of the patio into the rear entrance of the house. They stepped into what appeared to be the laundry area. Hermione closed the door and threw the bolt.

She led him into a huge sitting room complete with a big bay window at the front, massive black leather L-shaped sectional sofa, matching overstuffed chairs and a huge stone fireplace that took up almost one whole wall of the room.

The house was beautifully decorated. The rich hardwood floor not covered by a huge Persian rug gleamed in the soft lighting. The whole place looked comfortable, cozy and warm.

Hermione carelessly tossed her wand on a table just inside the sitting room. She then turned and gave Harry a rather dour look, arms folded tightly.

"What are you doing here at this hour?" She asked sounding a bit put out, "Did you follow me?"

"I was worried about you and no," he replied, "I begged McGonagall for your address."

"Brilliant," Hermione muttered, "Can't trust anyone…"

"Hermione," Harry said a bit gruffly. He was getting irritated at her attitude, "Don't blame her. She wouldn't tell me what's going on with you, said you might have your reasons for not telling me…"

Hermione said nothing as she stood looking at her shoes.

"Do you have reasons for not telling me?" He asked.

As he stood there watching her he saw Hermione's face crumple into utter sadness as she began to sob uncontrollably.

Harry automatically moved forward and took her into a tight embrace. He was beginning to get choked up himself seeing her like that.

"Oh Harry," she gasped as she grabbed his jacket and buried her face in his chest. She was shaking, clinging to him so tightly he was afraid she might tear the coat right off him.

"Hermione," Harry whispered, "please talk to me."

They stood that way for a long moment until she slowly regained control of herself. When she let go Harry conjured a handkerchief and guided her to the sofa. Hermione sat sniffling and hiccupping for a moment until she gave Harry a sideways glance. She looked miserable.

He said nothing trying to wait and see if she would open up and decided not to push her any farther. After a moment fumbling absent-mindedly with the hanky she stood.

"Come on," Hermione said holding her hand out to Harry, "I need a drink."

She towed him through an arched doorway that led into what looked like a formal dining room with a large mahogany table that looked very old. It was set in the center with a large basket of what appeared to be wildflowers and two candelabras on either side of the basket. The high backed chairs were ornately carved. A massive matching etched glass front antique china hutch sat to one side and contained all manner of china, crystal, silver and goblets.

The large crystal chandelier that hung above the table fit the décor perfectly.

As they passed through another arched doorway at the other end of the room it was like stepping out of the past and into the modern era into a kitchen filled with stainless steel and gadgets everywhere.

It looked like a kitchen right out of one of the finest restaurants in London. The huge island in the center of the kitchen was topped with black granite and had a four burner gas stove top, griddle, grill, sink and an oven below the range top.

A stainless pot rack ran around the perimeter of the island and all manner of shiny pots and pans hung around the rack. Harry had never seen two refrigerators before. Hermione didn't bother to explain one was a sub-zero unit and what it was used for.

Harry marveled as he watched her take a glass from a cabinet and slid it into a slot in the massive refrigerator's door. With a slight swishing whir the glass filled with cold water.

When Hermione took a long drink she handed the glass to Harry. He drained the rest.

"Can I try it?" He asked pointing to the fridge.

Hermione cocked a slight smile and nodded. Harry tentatively pressed the glass into the slot and watched it fill with water. He took another drink then handed the glass back. Hermione opened a shiny silver door next to the big sink and placed the glass on the rack of the dishwasher.

"Hermione this is a really nice house," Harry said looking around in wonder. He knew Mr. Weasley would be going into Muggle gadget sensory overload if he saw this place.

He suddenly realized what was missing.

"Where are your parents? Are they sleeping?" Harry asked.

He saw tears slide down her cheeks again as she sat down at a small table tucked in a niche off to the side of the kitchen next to what Harry assumed to be a pantry larger than his old bedroom at the Dursley's.

"My parents are at St. Mungo's Harry." She replied.

As Harry joined her at the table she began to talk. She told him everything. From the moment she left for Australia right up to her trip to the Ministry to deliver her new list.

He sat and listened quietly. He didn't interrupt her with pointless questions or hollow regrets. He simply listened until she had got it all out.

Hermione had to admit to herself it helped to tell him. She felt the monumental guilt and tension ease a bit.

When she was done Harry felt like throwing up. He had no idea she was going through so much agony. His anger at Ron flared even hotter as he sat listening to her.

"Right now I don't know if I'm coming or going most of the time. Not knowing why is so bloody frustrating."

"Well," Harry quipped, "If you pass yourself on the street or something just remember Polyjuice…"

Hermione gave him an odd look.

"At the rate you're pulling your hair out someone's bound to find some and try to capitalize on all your Golden Girl fame and glory." He grinned.

Hermione couldn't help but crack a smile at that. She knew Harry was trying to ease the tension and she appreciated it very much. She reached across the table and placed a hand on his arm softly looking up at him with watery eyes.

"I'm really sorry for being so distant and hateful Harry."

"Stop," Harry said, "You have nothing to apologize for."

"Well," she said sadly, "I feel I've been a hag to everyone the last few weeks and now sitting here talking to you I realize it was stupid. I have no idea why I was trying to hide everything. I was just so afraid the Prophet would get a hold of what was happening and they would have a bloody field day with it."

She looked up at Harry with such sadness it made his heart throb with pain.

"Wasn't life supposed to get better after dispatching Voldemort and his lot?" She whispered.

"It has Hermione," Harry responded with a grimace, "Just not for us…at least not yet but it will. You've got to believe that. I have to anyway. It's the only thing I've got to hold on to at the moment. If I didn't believe that I'd probably Avada Kedavra myself!"

The look on Hermione's face told him his attempt at levity fell a bit flat.

"You can't use an unforgivable curse on yourself you dolt," She mumbled.

"Maybe your right," Harry said looking at the floor, "but I never thought I could survive the curse twice either."

That revelation shocked Hermione. Harry had survived the killing curse on two separate occasions. It was impossible not to see there was much more to Harry Bloody Potter than what was on the surface.

"So there's nothing that can be done to help them?" Harry asked

"Nothing we know of right now," Hermione sighed tiredly. "It doesn't mean there isn't an answer. It just means we haven't found it yet. I just need to stay focused and not get sidetracked by things like the antics of Ronald Weasley; Blubbering Baboon."

"I don't know what's gotten into him Hermione," Harry said, "and apparently no one else seems to know either. You know Ron. He'll come round eventually…"

"NO!" Hermione shouted. She was on her feet in a blink. She stood with her back to him, arms wrapped tightly around herself again, "No Harry. Don't you dare make excuses for him! You always do! Not this time."

"I was willing to forgive him when he called me a `nightmare' when we were younger. I forgave him when he completely overlooked me for the Yule Ball. I forgave him about the whole misunderstanding with the Slug Club," she started shaking, "I was even willing to forgive him for that whole Lavender Brown mess."

She looked down at her hands.

"I might have even been able to forgive him for abandoning us during the hunt for the Horcruxes some day Harry but this…I know I'm not pretty or attractive or alluring but I won't ever be someone's afterthought."

"Afterthought," Harry was on his feet now himself, "Hermione how could you possibly think that? You are all those other things and so much more! Don't you dare let some empty-headed sot make you feel inferior. Why I just wish I had the courage…"

Harry stopped that thought right there. He wasn't sure he wanted to delve into his inner most feelings. It was a dangerous place to go and he wanted to kick himself for letting even that slip.

Hermione turned to look at him with surprise. He cursed himself.

"Courage for what Harry?" She asked calmly.

When he hesitated she repeated the question. She wanted to know what he was going to tell her.

"Harry, you're the most courageous bloke I know. What didn't you have the courage to do?"

He looked at her with a sideways glance then quickly down at his trainers.

"To do what Viktor Krum had the courage to do." He replied.

Hermione flushed hot. She suddenly felt even more weak and ill.

Does he know? But how? No-one knows what happened between Viktor and I the night of the Yule Ball, do they? Oh Merlin! Did Viktor tell someone?

She sat back down at the table before her knees gave way. She had to find out…

"What - what do you mean Harry," she asked as innocently as she could.

"You know," Harry said, "I wish I would have asked you to the Yule Ball instead of Cho or whoever."

Hermione took a deep steadying breath. She tried desperately to get control of herself.

"Oh…well, I understand why you didn't Harry. I was a bit miffed at Ron for not asking because I was under the impression he fancied me. To be honest I'm surprised you didn't ask Ginny but I think she was still with Michael or Dean then wasn't she. I can't quite remember."

"Yes, well," Hermione saw Harry's face darken completely, "I've learned that sometimes things like that don't change. Seems to be a Weasley trait among the younger lot."

"What?" Hermione asked. She thought that a very strange statement.

"Let's just say I don't think I'll be spending too many holidays with the Weasley family."

"What are you trying to tell…" she began to ask but then reasoning took over…"Oh! What happened?"

"I don't know if I'm ready to talk about it quite yet. To be honest I'm not sure I even understand it all. I haven't had the time to reason things out yet…not that it really matters."

"I'm sorry Harry," Hermione said sadly. She herself suddenly disliked the idea of spending time with the Weasley clan. She looked at Harry for a long moment and realized he now had no-one. He was completely alone in the world…both worlds!

How could everyone just turn their backs on him like that? He saved Ginny and Ron and Mr. Weasley! He saved all our lives!

Before she realized what she was doing she stood and moved to Harry. She wrapped him in as warm and tender an embrace as she could muster in her present state of depression. When he slid his arms around her in kind she nuzzled her head against his chest under his chin and closed her eyes.

They stood that way for what seemed like a long time just holding one-another. Hermione realized how pleasant it felt to just bask in the warmth of him listening to the strength of his beating heart. She began to feel calmer than she had in weeks, all the tension and stress seemed to fall away. He rested his cheek gently against her forehead.

The next thing Hermione realized she was waking up from a drowsy slumber lying across Harry's lap on the couch in the sitting room. He had covered her with her mother's afghan that hung over a rocking chair next to the fireplace. He must have carried her.

He was sleeping as well propped against the side of the couch sitting up, his arms still wrapped about her protectively. She couldn't believe she had fallen asleep standing in the kitchen like that.

She noticed it was still dark outside so she knew it was still early in the morning. When she moved to raise up Harry came awake at once with a slight jolt.

"Harry I'm sorry…" Hermione tried to apologize.

"Shush," he said with a slight smile, "You were exhausted. I didn't know where your room was so I did the only thing I could think of."

Hermione smiled at him. She stretched and yawned raising her arms over her head.

"It's fine Harry thank you. Besides…you would have never made it up the stairs. It's a good thing you didn't try."

Harry chuckled.

"Yah," he grinned, "McGonagall warned me about that."

She raised her eyebrows, "Then why did I find you in my upside-down trap?"

"I didn't say I was clever," His eyes sparkled.

As they sat looking at one-another Hermione got a strange tingling sensation all over as she looked into his familiar green eyes. It was something that had never happened before. She had looked in his eyes countless times but never had a reaction like that. It felt odd yet familiar.

She could see so many things there in his gaze. The things he had been through over the past 8 years she could scarcely comprehend and if she had not been standing right next to him when he went through those things she would not have though it possible for someone to endure so much and still be able to smile at all.

Before she could think about it or reconsider or stop herself Hermione was falling forward. When her lips met his it was as if she was covered in a subtle wave of warmth. Her whole body clenched and shuddered in response to the feel of his warm soft lips on hers.

It was wonderful and thrilling and frightening all at the same time.

For Harry the feeling of Hermione's lips suddenly pressed against his was quite unexpected. He had no idea she was going to kiss him so it took a moment for him to realize it but when he did it was as if someone was running their fingers softly down his spine. It felt…so right!

Hermione found herself becoming lost in the power of their connection, so strong and unexpected. Before she realized what she was doing she shifted her position and was now straddling Harry's lap. Her hands came up to cup both sides of his face as their kiss deepened and became more urgent. The feelings of longing and desire were almost overwhelming her senses as she pressed her mouth hungrily into his.

Harry found himself consumed by her. As he sat there reveling in the intense emotions she seemed to be pouring into him through her kiss he forced himself into rational thought.

You're snogging Hermione Granger! She's your best friend!

…But when a soft sensuous moan escaped Hermione's throat as she pressed her body even closer to his he lost all sense of reason or rationality. Nothing else in the world mattered at that moment but her.

In the next moment it was as if sobriety had returned to both of them in the same instant. Hermione lurched back off the couch to stand blinking, wide-eyed at Harry for a moment. She reached up and touched trembling fingers gently to her lips as Harry's gaze fell to his hands.

"I - I'm really sorry Harry," Hermione stammered blushing profusely, "I don't know what got into me…I…"

Harry held up his hand to stall her. He couldn't quite meet her shocked expression.

Hermione stood there for a moment more. She squeezed her eyes shut trying to get control over her jumbled emotions. As she searched inside herself she became aware that kissing Harry had brought her a feeling that had been absent inside of her for a long time.

Comfort!

In the next moment thoughts of her parents flooded back into her consciousness and the magic of the moment before was gone in a puff of smoke.

She was an absolute mess.

Hermione settled into one of the overstuffed chairs beside the couch with a heavy sigh. Weariness settled on her like a pile of boulders.

Harry glanced at her when she settled into the chair and realized she suddenly looked much older and very haggard. Before he knew what he was doing he was on his feet.

"Maybe I should go Hermione," he whispered, "You need to get some…"

Before he was able to finish his statement Hermione was on her feet as well. A rather wild look crossed her beleaguered features.

"NO!" She said imploringly, "Please don't leave…" She forced herself to stamp down a growing sense of urgency. She had no idea where it came from or why but she was suddenly aware she didn't want to be alone…in this house. She took another deep breath. "Erm…what I means is…I would really appreciate it if you would just stay here…tonight…" She wanted to say with me but something stopped her.

Merlin…Granger when have you become so needy?

Harry nodded.

They both just stared at each other for a moment. The nervous tension crackled through the air between them like electricity.

Hermione smiled sadly then turned toward the stairs.

"Give me a moment to remove the wards and I'll make sure the guest room is ready," she whispered.

Harry glanced at her nervously as he turned to follow.

---@>---

Ron landed heavily on the cold damp cobblestones of Diagon Alley after apparating away from Fred's funeral service. He had no idea where in the Alley he had landed. The only thing he could think of was getting back to Cassandra so he reasoned she must still be at the Leakey Cauldron.

His head pounded and he felt sick after the night's events. The thought of Hermione sitting so close to Harry flittered through his addled mind. He had finally come to the realization Harry was there for her because he wasn't. It made sense. He had always been there for her. He wasn't quite sure how to handle the knowledge the girl he had secretly, (or maybe not so secretly) fancied for ages was possibly with his best mate now.

Part of him was grateful Hermione wasn't alone and he was glad it was someone other than Viktor Krum.

That was one of the few secrets he had managed to keep over the years. The knowledge of what Viktor had done the night of the Yule Ball sent him into a blinding rage whenever he thought of it but he had kept mum about it besides, he still wasn't absolutely certain it had actually happened that way and he didn't have the nerve to ask Hermione about it. He was certain a nasty hex would follow his question.

As he tried to get to his feet he heard voices and the sound of shuffling footsteps coming quickly toward him out of the darkness.

"There he is!" One voice shouted.

"Put up an anti-apparition ward," said another.

Before Ron realized what was happening he was jerked to his feet by two very large and very strong sets of hands. As he gazed wildly around him his eyes finally focused on a tall, dark figure coming toward him out of the shadows. He didn't look pleased.

"Ronald Weasley," Kingsley Shacklebolt announced formally with a growl, "The Minister for Magic has requested we apprehend you and transport you at once to the Minister's quarters in London. You will remain there until the Minister returns, is that understood?"

Ron was too dazed to do anything else but nod.

The next thing he realized he was standing in a rather grand entrance hall of a very large and opulent residence.

The foyer was a cavernous area. The floor was covered in large dark marbled tiles that were so shiny they seemed to glitter from the light of a huge crystal chandelier hanging above their heads set in the large domed ceiling. Two wide staircases went up to a second level on both sides of the grand entrance hall.

The walls on both sides of the foyer were covered with paintings and portraits whose faces peered down at them scowling with obvious disapproval.

Large mahogany doors led to rooms on either side of the entrance hall and the foyer opened up to what appeared to be a huge sitting room through a wide doorway set between the staircases.

A tall, thin man dressed in what appeared to Ron to be a tuxedo came out from the sitting room and glided across the entrance hall toward them. He wore a scowl similar to the ones in all the portraits. With every other step the man made a strange squeaking sound as he walked.

Kingsley stepped forward and addressed the man.

"We've managed to find him Gibble," the head Auror said, "Please send word to the Minister. I must return to the Ministry. There is still much work to be done there."

Gibble bowed and hooked Ron's arm with one of his long boney hands. Kingsley looked pointedly at Ron.

"You're to stay here, understand and I wouldn't advise giving Mr. Gibble any trouble. He's been taking care of the Minister Elect for thirty years so he's seen and done just about everything you can think of. Besides…I think you've caused enough trouble for your family already!"

With that, Kingsley turned and with the other two men made his way out the front entrance without a backward glance.

"Mr. Weasley," the old butler said in a calm polished tone, "This way if you please." Gibble motioned with his free hand to the staircase on the right.

Ron realized very quickly Gibble wasn't asking as the old man's other hand tightened almost painfully on his upper arm.

"I will show you to your room," Gibble added stiffly, "May I suggest you clean up a bit before the Minister arrives. Your possessions have been transported from your flat in Diagon Alley so I pray you will find what you need."

Ron felt himself being guided toward the stairs.

Part of him was terrified at the prospect of facing his father, and worse…his mum! The small inkling to flee was instantly quelled by the fact the head of the Auror's Department was dispatched to find him and they put anti-apparition wards on him to keep him from running. He knew this place would have all types of wards and spells on it so he resigned himself to do as he was told for now.

Gibble half-guided, half-dragged Ron up the stairs. At the top they turned right and continued into a long hallway with large dark mahogany doors on both sides. When they reached the second door on the left Gibble stopped.

With a flourish of a wand the door swung wide to reveal a bedroom unlike any Ron had ever seen. In the middle of the back wall was a huge four-poster bed. All the furnishings looked antique but in remarkably fine condition.

"You will find your personal bath behind the door to the left. The closet is on the right." Gibble gestured with his hand toward the open door. "If there is anything else you require simply touch your wand to the silver bell on the night stand next to the bed."

Gibble gazed at Ron seriously for a moment.

"I would not advise trying to leave Mr. Weasley," his dark eyes flashed, "It would not bode well for you."

Ron said nothing as he staggered his way into the room. Gibble pulled the door closed as Ron surveyed his new digs. The whole room looked opulent and resplendent with all the fineries life had to offer but it left Ron feeling like he was a stranger invading someone else's home.

He made his way over to the huge bed, turned and fell backward onto the immaculately made surface. The mattress was like landing on a cloud. Without even removing his shoes Ron was unconscious in minutes.

An unknown number of hours later he was torn from the slumber of the dead by sharp rapping on his door. Before he could get to his feet he saw Percy push his way into the room through his hazy vision still blurred by drink.

Percy came to stand over Ron with a disapproving glower, hands on hips.

"Feeling a bit peaky are we?" Percy asked.

Ron could only grunt in response. The next thing Ron knew he was being jerked to his feet and forced to stand stiffly at attention. He saw Percy standing in front of him holding his wand.

"I'm afraid nap time is over Ronald." Percy said in his most serious and authoritative tone, "You've got about fifteen minutes to get yourself cleaned up and pulled together. Dad wants to see you in his office at once and if I were you…and I assure you I am most glad I'm not…I would not keep the Minister waiting one more second than necessary!"

Ron peered at Percy for a moment.

"That angry are they?" He asked. He knew it was a stupid question.

Percy only shook his head as he retreated out of the room. As Ron made his way into the huge opulent bathroom he spotted a new unopened bottle of Pepper-Up potion sitting next to the sink.

He thanked whatever wizard, witch or deity had deposited the bottle there as he fumbled the stopper off the top and drained the entire bottle. After a loud belch he began feeling the effects and he managed to make his way quickly through a shower without falling down.

After he dried off he went to the other side of the room to a matching door that led to a giant closet. Inside was an entire new wardrobe complete with underwear, socks, shoes, trousers and crisp new button-up shirts. There was even a suit or two. Ron thought about putting on one of the suits for about two seconds but abandoned the idea when he spied a pair of tan trousers with creases so sharp they looked like they could slice fruit.

He chose those along with a crisp white shirt and a new pair of brown wing tips that fit like they were made just for him. He was just checking himself in the full length mirror on the back of the closet door when he heard the bedroom door open once again. Percy stuck his head in and taking in Ron's much improved condition cracked a wry grin.

"You look almost human. Come with me…" Percy motioned for Ron to follow and he did so without protest although he didn't like the idea of being ordered around by his older brother who had at one time defected from the family. Even though Percy had seen the error of his ways that stigmatism and a bit of resentment still existed in Ron's mind. Everyone else had seemed to have gotten passed it.

Ron took in what Percy was wearing and suddenly felt woefully underdressed. Percy had on what looked like a finely tailored charcoal grey business suit, bright white shirt and stylish tie under his matching business robe bearing the official Ministry seal on the breast pocket.

As they made their way down the hall toward the staircase Percy began talking rather rapidly under his breath in a very official manner.

"There's something you need to understand right away Ronald," Percy said, "You are about to have an audience with the Minister for Magic…not your father. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

Ron stopped walking and looked with raised eyebrows at Percy who took another step or two before he realized Ron wasn't beside him any more.

"No, actually I don't," Ron said as if he had just tasted something unpleasant. He stood stubbornly still glaring at Percy with arms folded tightly.

Percy suddenly looked tired as if he would rather be doing anything else than attempting to explain wizard politics to his gormless younger brother. He took a deep breath.

"What do you think is going on here Ron? Do you think this is just some kind of game or a silly joke? Our father is now Minister for Magic and along with that comes an enormous amount of duty and responsibility. If that wasn't enough dad has inherited the complete mess of the past three administrations not to mention trying to sort out the damage done by the Death Eaters and all those Ministry Officials who were under the Imperious Curse."

Ron looked sour.

"So what does that have to do with me?" He asked.

Percy looked at Ron trying to summon a colossal amount of patience. He realized Ron knew very little of how a political machine worked so he tried to explain things as simply and succinctly as possible.

"Look Ron," Percy sighed, "Politics, no matter it Wizard or Muggle has as much to do with perception as it does anything else. It's how people view an administration that makes the difference between being an effective governing body or being a complete waste of time and resources. As unpleasant as that might sound it is simply the way things are."

"If the Wizengamot views our father as a weak leader then they will be less likely to work with him in making effective changes that will benefit the wizard world. Do you remember how Cornelius Fudge tried to cover up the fact Voldemort had returned?"

Ron nodded. He also remembered how Fudge had tried to push Dumbledore aside and discredit him and Harry. He tried to force his influence on Hogwarts as well as the Daily Prophet.

"How well did that work out for him?" Percy asked.

Ron shrugged.

"I still don't see what this has to do with sending Aurors to pick me up like a common criminal and bringing me here against my will!"

Percy held up his hand, "I'm getting to that Ronald." He continued.

"What I'm trying to tell you is the truth will out Ron. What that means is that anything and everything you do…" Percy pointed at Ron's chest, "reflects directly on this administration for no other reason except that you are a Weasley. You are, like it or not, directly connected to all this and if that wasn't profound enough you just happen to be one of the Golden Trio so what you do out there is magnified ten times more because of your notoriety…understand?"

Ron was beginning to and he didn't like it one bit. He didn't realize how complicated being famous had become. If his father had not been elected Minister it probably wouldn't matter what he did all that much but he knew his mother would still be angry. It made him feel a bit queasy.

"So what's going to happen to me then," Ron asked a bit angrily. He didn't want to be a part of any of this. He just wanted to be left alone but he also knew that was no longer possible. "Dad going to send me off to Azkaban or something…Family embarrassment and all?"

Percy gritted his teeth.

"First of all it's not dad you have to be worried about!" Percy growled, "He and I have convinced mum to allow the Minister's office to handle this…problem. Believe me, that wasn't easy. She wanted your bullocks on a plate! As I said before you are not going to be talking with dad. You are going to have an audience with the Minister and that requires a certain amount of politeness and respect. Got that? I have no idea what's to become of you but I will tell you this Ron. If you go into that office with a big chip on your shoulder things will go bad for you…do you understand what I'm telling you?"

Ron sighed. He felt the weight of the past week settle on him like it had down in the wizard morgue when he finally realized the loss of life that had occurred the night of the battle at Hogwarts. He felt he no longer had any control over his own life and that more than anything made him angry and resentful.

He didn't want to have an audience with the Minister for Magic. He could care less about the whole bloody thing but as Percy's words sank in about Ron being undeniably connected to the office now he came to the quick conclusion his brother was right. If he went in there with a belligerent attitude he would regret it. He had to begrudgingly appreciate Percy's insight on that particular notion.

"Alright," Ron asked, "What should I do then?"

Percy rubbed his forehead.

"Honestly," he looked tiredly at Ron, "I don't know Ron. All I can say is you're going to hear some very unpleasant things…possibly things you didn't know but what I advise is not to loose your temper and don't be disrespectful. As Minister, Dad is under an enormous amount of pressure from the Wizengamot at present."

"There are things happening I cannot discuss being in the position of Undersecretary but suffice it to say he is on tenterhooks. Just get in and get it over with. Take whatever punishment he decides on and run with it. I'll try and suggest the least unpleasant course of action. He listens to me and is relying on my past experience much more than he should I think but it gives me a little influence on some of his decisions. I won't make any promises but I'll do what I can."

Ron wanted to rail against this outrageous treatment. He felt like he was being tried for some crime. He suddenly remembered how it must have felt for Harry when he had to go before the entire Wizengamot for breaking the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Magic. If Harry had enough courage to face an entire Wizengamot then he could muster enough gumption to face his father…but Harry had Dumbledore to help him…Ron had Percy!

I'm doomed!

Ron held his hand out telling Percy to get on with it. Percy nodded and led Ron down the hall to the staircase on the right. They descended to the foyer and turned right to one of the large mahogany doors that lined the sides of the entryway.

Gibble appeared as if out of nowhere to open the door. He nodded at Percy with what appeared to be the greatest respect.

"Will the Minister and the Undersecretary require tea sir?"

"Thank you, yes," Percy nodded to Gibble slightly, "That is most kind."

Ron studied this seemingly simple exchange and marveled at the level of rigid formality of it all. Gibble glanced haughtily at Ron with one eyebrow raised as if to say, That's how things are done around here boy. Ron couldn't help but bristle with resentment. He tried to push those feelings aside as Percy first knocked then slowly pushed his way into the Minister's residential office.

As they entered the office Percy stiffly and formally announced their entrance.

"The Undersecretary requests permission to enter. I have brought Mr. Ronald Weasley as you have requested Minister."

From where Ron was standing he took in the vast room that lay before him. It was huge. His father sat behind a massive and ornately carved wood desk. He looked rather small sitting behind it. Ron could see nothing more than the shiny bald spot on the top of his father's head as he sat hunched over a pile of parchment, the feather of his quill quivering as he wrote.

"Percy," Ron heard his father's voice say without looking up from his work, "There's no need for such formality son. Come in and make yourselves comfortable. I'll be finished in a moment."

Percy ushered Ron toward one of the chairs sitting in front of the huge desk. It was made of a heavy dark and ornately carved wood and covered with plush red leather. The back of the chair was ladder straight and as soon as Ron's bum hit the seat he was uncomfortable. Percy moved to another smaller desk off to the side of the office and gathered what appeared to be a folder. He came and settled in the chair next to Ron.

Gibble came in a moment later and placed a silver tea service on the corner of the desk. He placed a cup of tea down for Arthur then came around the desk and set one down for Percy. He completely ignored Ron's existence. He then bowed.

"Will there be anything else Excellency?" Gibble asked.

"No thank you Gibble," Arthur replied without looking up, "That will be all."

The man Friday seemed to evaporate into thin air.

They sat in silence for a long moment as his father worked feverishly on the stack of parchments. Percy sat sipping his tea. Finally Arthur slipped his quill into the ink well and leaned back in his chair peering across the desk at Ron for a moment. The look on his fathers face was both weary and a bit agitated.

Percy rose and passed the file he had picked up moments before across the desk to his father. Arthur took the file, laid it carefully on the desk in front of him and flipped it open. He studied the top document for a moment, let out a soft groan then looked back at Ron again.

"Ronald," his father inquired, "Can you please explain what has gotten into you son? I suppose I can understand having a bit of fun but this…"

Arthur pulled a wizard photograph from the file and held it up so Ron could see it. It was a picture of him kissing Cassandra at Darby Danforth's party. He could see Danforth as well as a few other wizards in the background. Ron couldn't understand what the big deal was. He was just kissing the girl. It wasn't like they were shagging naked or something.

"She's just a bird I met dad," Ron said a bit more defensively than he wanted, "We went to a few parties and had some fun. What's the bloody big deal?"

His father handed a piece of parchment over to Percy and his brother began to read it out loud.

"Cassandra Crenshaw…also known as Clair Crane, Daphne Brooks and sometimes goes by the professional name of Bubbles. She's been charged with eight counts of solicitation, three counts of attempted bribery and a jay walking charge. She's been convicted twice. Mr. Darby Danforth. Five counts of drunk and disorderly, two counts of collusion, prime suspect in several Muggle disappearances and presently under investigation for suspected involvement with Death Eaters."

"What's Solicitation?" Ron asked a bit bewildered by what he was hearing."

Percy couldn't help but smirk but his father looked glum.

"Erm, Ronald," Percy replied, "I'm not sure how to tell you this but your little girlfriend is a lady of the evening!"

"A what?" Ron asked confused.

"Cassandra Crenshaw is a convicted prostitute Ron," Arthur chimed in, "and that's not the half of it. We received this the other day from George. He told me Lee found it while going through some of his old issues. He said he was sure he had seen the girl somewhere before so he came up with this…"

Arthur handed Ron a magazine. He had seen one before. Seamus Finnigan had a copy tucked under his mattress at Hogwarts years ago. It was a copy of a tacky skin rag called The Sassy Sorceress. His father had a certain page marked with a tab. When Ron opened it there lay Cassandra wearing nothing more than a seductive smile as she waved up at him from a red satin covered bed.

Ron's blood went to ice as he starred at the pictures. Percy cleared his throat and Ron snapped his attention back to his father's stern gaze.

"I…I had no idea dad, honest!" Ron stammered.

"I believe him Minister," Percy hastily added, "I believe while there is really no excuse for Ron's excessive drinking he truly didn't know anything about the girl's history or anything about Darby Danforth. It is in my opinion she was using Ron in order to take advantage of his fame and notoriety…"

Ron shot Percy an angry glare. He didn't believe for one moment Cassandra was taking advantage of him. She had never asked him for anything except wanting to be with him and have fun.

"That's not true," Ron protested.

Percy held up a hand to stall his argument.

"Did you sign a contract with Rita Skeeter about a book deal you two came up with?" Percy asked calmly.

Ron paled, "Yah…how did you…"

Before he could finish his question Percy rolled his eyes.

"Oh come on Ronald! It's all over the Daily Prophet. Your little bird has contacted Ms. Skeeter several times inquiring about when the Galleons will start rolling in and how much your little book might fetch. I contacted Ms. Skeeter myself for corroboration."

"I…I…" Ron stammered. He suddenly felt ill.

Arthur looked darkly at Ron for a moment.

"Your mother wanted you thrown in Azkaban for a few weeks to rid your befuddled brain of all this silly nonsense."

"Azkaban!" Ron twitched like he had been struck in the face.

"Lucky for you she decided to visit with Fleur for the next few days." Percy interjected, "seems Fleur's been a bit under the weather."

"Calm down," Arthur said. He rubbed his tired face with both hands, "We're not going to send you to Azkaban but I promised her that I would do…something with you." His father looked off into the shadows of the corner of his office for a moment, "Maybe I can convince the Muggle Prime Minister to put you in his military for a while. That aught to teach you a bit of discipline at least."

Ron began to sweat. He couldn't believe the mess he had gotten himself into. The prospect of being sent into the Muggle world frightened him beyond comprehension. He was about to do some serious groveling and pleading when his brother unexpectedly came to his rescue.

"I think that might be a bit extreme Minister," Percy said frankly, "While I realize Ron has acted like a buffoon I really don't think the Muggle Military is the answer."

"Have you any suggestions?" Arthur asked Percy. They were speaking as if Ron was no longer in the room.

"Actually I do Minister," Percy nodded. "He still has one term left to complete at Hogwarts in order to be eligible for his N.E.W.T.S. I recommend sending him back to finish his last year. We can make it official by Decree if it will satisfy the Ministry."

Ron knew Percy was actually referring to his mother, not the Ministry but the prospect of being forced to go back to Hogwarts was much more palatable then the alternatives.

His father nodded.

"Also," Percy added, "I think Ron should be confined to the Minister's residential compound until the term at Hogwarts starts in September. That should satisfy mum."

"I think that's a capitol idea! Write up an appropriate Decree and make certain it states he must finish his last term with acceptable marks."

"Consider it done Minister," Percy nodded.

"Oh," Arthur added, "and better put a clause in there about being confined the school ground so he can't bolt if he were of the mind to." He looked pointedly at Ron's pale face.

Percy nodded. Arthur rose stiffly from his chair and scooped up several rolls of sealed parchment.

"I have a meeting with the Undersecretary of Finance this morning at six-o' clock. I'll be at the Ministry until about nine."

"Very well," Percy rose as well. Ron sat still as death, his head still reeling from what had just taken place, "I'll have the Decree on your desk for approval within the hour."

As Arthur came around his desk preparing to leave for the Ministry he laid his hand on Ron's shoulder.

"All I can say Ron is this is for your own good son," Arthur said sadly. "Please don't squander this opportunity to set things to right."

After Arthur left the office Ron could feel Percy's gaze boring a hole in the side of his head.

"That went much better than I thought," Percy said with a sigh, "That whole Muggle Military thing came out of nowhere."

Ron was still numb but the realization of what he had discovered about Cassandra depressed him. He turned to look at Percy.

"How did you find all that out about her?"

"I didn't!" Percy shrugged, "Most of this stuff was the back pages of the Prophet. All I did was contact Kingsley to verify if it was true or not. When Lee came up with those nude pictures I thought mum was going to spontaneously combust. You do see how badly this reflects on the family now don't you Ron?"

Ron could only nod. "I never meant…"

Percy stalled his apology with a hand placed on his shoulder.

"I know Ron," he said quietly, "Look…just do us all a favor and behave yourself at Hogwarts. Once this mess blows over…and it will with a little time just try not to draw too much attention to yourself for a while ok? That will at least keep mum off your back. Dad doesn't need that kind of stress just now."

"Alright," Ron said looking off into space, "Guess I don't have much of a choice do I?"

"Consider the alternatives," Percy chuckled then left the office.

Ron looked seriously at Percy for a moment.

"Thanks…for your help," Ron said blushing slightly, "That was…" He wasn't sure what else to say.

Percy shook his head.

"I know I wasn't around for the family much over the past few years. I bought into Fudge's administration hook, line and float. I really thought I was doing the right thing. I thought loyalty was what was needed to succeed but…" he looked down at the floor for a moment. Ron stepped forward and put a hand on Percy's shoulder.

"That's not important any more Percy," Ron said, "All that mess is in the past. You came to your senses in the end and that's what matters."

Percy offered Ron a weak smile.

"I'm sorry things turned out so badly for you Ron."

Ron waved him off as he sat back down in the chair with a heavy sigh.

"Ahh, I brought all this on myself. If I would have went to #12 and stayed with Harry none of this would have happened."

Percy nodded and exited the office.

Ron sat where he was lost in contemplation. Finishing his final year at Hogwarts wouldn't be so bad but the thought of returning to the school without Harry or even Hermione made it seem empty and pointless.

He thought about being 18 and still in school. He wondered if old McGonagall would make him Head Boy if he inquired but then remembered she and her father were very close. He would be lucky if he wasn't tagged with a tracking charm after what had just transpired.

What will Harry and Hermione say when they find out I've been sequestered to Hogwarts!

He knew Harry would probably laugh. Hermione would most likely tell him it served him right for being a brainless twit.

He thought about Hermione for a moment. Surly she had read about his infamous exploits in the Daily Prophet. He wondered if she would ever speak to him again. For the first time since the end of their sixth year after Dumbledore's funeral he felt the first twinge of regret.

He knew there was no chance things would ever be the way they once were between the three of them and that made him feel worse than any punishment his father, the new Minister of Magic, could dish out.

He remembered what he had seen that night he looked into the Mirror of Erised. It amused him how differently and disappointing real life had become and how tenuous and fickle fame could be. He was certain at that moment the Mirror with all its empty promises of the future reflected nothing more than one's own selfish desires.

He vowed to himself as he got up and made his way from his father's office, if he ever saw that stupid Mirror again he would throw a rock through it…

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