The Spoken Truth, Part 1

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part 1
by rogueinker

Disclaimer: For entertainment only, really.


Albus Dumbledore was at loose ends. He sat in his office staring into the fire. It was almost midnight and sleep was not forthcoming. His cocoa sat cooling on a table next to him. Fawkes slept soundly on his perch. None of the portraits were in a talkative mood. His various gadgets and instruments were quiet, not stirring. Dumbledore felt quite alone.

The second war had been won the year before. The new Minister of Magic, Amelia Bones, was both capable and dedicated and the Wizengamot had rid itself of its bad members. Thus reinvigorated, they had turned their attentions to improving the wizarding world; a world that had sloughed off the tensions, despair and uncertainty wrought by Voldemort and was ripe for change and good leadership. It was, indeed, a new world full of optimism and hope. So, then, why was he not feeling all that optimistic? Why did he feel lost even slightly unwanted?

The Wizengamot had, at war's end, found purpose and direction - to rebuild a better world for all the children no matter their heritage. There were new committees and research groups; a dozen new initiatives in the planning stages led by the deputy minister of magic Kingsley Shacklebolt. With every passing day, Albus noticed that he was receiving fewer owl letters asking for advice, guidance and instruction. At first he had been relieved and joyful as he saw the opportunity to devote more time to Hogwarts. But, even in Hogwarts, he had little to occupy himself with. Between the house elves, the staff and his deputy's organizational genius, the school functioned smoothly without needing any day to day interference from him. He had then thought to starting his research endeavors once more but that idea had been short lived. Age had given him knowledge but took away the temperament needed for research work. He became bored and distracted too quickly.

Dumbledore sighed long and loudly. He rose and left his office. Perhaps a walk about the castle would tire him enough to sleep.

Some time later he found himself in the corridor of the faculty quarters. He head a loud bang from Professor Flitwick's quarters. Knowing the charm professor's penchant for late hours, Albus decided to knock on the door.

The door opened almost immediately. Further into the room but in direct sight of the door, Flitwick called out. "Oh, Albus, it's you."

"I heard a loud bang, Filus. Everything all right here?"

Flitwick motioned to the boxes and piles of books around him. "Just sorting through books. I never knew I had so many." He placed his hands on his back and stretched. "Come in and join me for some tea will you. I think I've done enough sorting for the night."

A few minutes later they sat companionably in two wingback chairs by the fireplace. Flitwick made encouraging noises and comments eventually drawing out Albus' real concerns and the litany of things he had been doing to fill his time. Flitwick knew Albus to be the epitome of the great, inspiring leader. Unfortunately, such leaders were at their greatest when the need for them was at its zenith. The need gives the leader purpose. When that need went away, the leader is still the same leader but with no purpose aimlessly waiting for the next need to come about. In the meantime, said leaders had a tendency to drive those around them to distraction.

"Albus, why must you feel that you have to do something?"

"I have never been one to lay about, Filius."

"I meant why not wait, just wait."

"Wait? For what?"

"Opportunity, Albus, opportunity," Filius smiled at his friend's confusion. "Let your mind and body rest. Take a long leisurely look around you. Leave yourself open to possibilities."

"Hmmm." Dumbledore sipped his tea.

Flitwick saw the flicker of interest in the headmaster's eyes. He pressed on. "Waiting does not imply indolence. You may think of new projects or tasks that you have not done before. Think outside of the ordinariness of your own habits and thoughts."

"True, certain habits are quite ingrained. But I am a man of habit, Filius. I have grown accustomed to my comforts. Are you asking me to deprive myself of them? What would be the point?"

"Comfort and, to a lesser extent, convenience are all good but they do breed complacency." Flitwick looked his friend straight. "Everything you have said tells me that you are looking for a challenge. There are no more wars, no dark lords to confront. The only challenge left is inside of you."

"You are suggesting I reinvent myself," Dumbledore laughed. "What shall I strive to be next, eh? A world explorer, perhaps."

Flitwick chuckled. "I hesitate to think of what mischief you could come to traveling about the world."

"Fifty years ago such an adventure would have been appealing but now I can hear my tired bones protesting the mere contemplation of such an action," Albus admitted. "I do not see myself leaving my ease here in order to sleep in foreign lands and times."

"I am not suggesting that you do. Wait and see, Albus, use some of the patience on yourself that you have employed upon others," Flitwick poured more tea into their cups. "I am certain something will arise to capture your attention. You need only wait for that something to come to you."

"I see the merit of your advice, but I don't know what I shall do to fill the time."

"No school administrative business?"

"Minerva is at least a quarter ahead of most required business."

"Only a quarter?" The two men laughed knowing that Minerva was more likely a half year ahead. "I have it! I have just the thing."

Dumbledore prodded. "And that would be?"

"Write your story, Albus. There is no better time and no better person to do it but you."

Dumbledore was silent for a time seriously considering the idea. "I could finally tell the truth. Set things straight. Reveal the secrets."

"Yes, Albus, you can and you must."

"But how ... where should I start? Do I start with my early life or with the war. In what style should I write? I want it to be entertaining as well as factual." Albus rubbed his hands together. His eyes were now lit with excitement and earnest thought.

Flitwick was pleased with himself. In mid motion to pick up his teacup, a twinge of pain in his back reminded him of the late hour. "Albus, may we continue this discussion in the morning? It is past midnight and I -"

"Of course, Filius, you have classes in the morning. I've kept you up too long," Dumbledore stood up and made his way to the door. "Thank you, old friend, for giving me much to think about."

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part 2
by rogueinker

The next day few weeks were unremarkable save for the absence of the headmaster. Other than breakfast he was hardly ever seen. In fact, he was rarely even physically at the castle. When he returned he was always visibly tired yet his eyes were alert and merry. Speculation was rife among staff and faculty as to what their headmaster's new interest could be - some unknown enemy, a woman, a research project, a new job or maybe two women. The staff debates became so heated that Professor McGonagall could no longer tolerate the volume or variety of rumor and innuendo. She decided to act.

Just after dinner, she marched to the headmaster's office. She knocked and heard a cheery "Come in!"

She looked about the room for any sign of anything out of the ordinary. She found none. "Good evening, Albus."

"Minerva, what brings you here?" Dumbledore stroked his beard. "Did I forget an appointment?"

"No, you did not," Minerva took a deep breath and composed herself. "Albus, I'm here on behalf of the staff."

"Do have a seat, please," Albus closed several books open on his desk. He adjusted his spectacles and looked as attentive as he could. "Now, what is this all about?"

Minerva sat down in her favorite chair. She nervously smoothed down her robes. "Before I tell you, please understand that we ... that is, I, have no wish to pry into your private affairs, none at all. I will understand if you do not wish to answer my ... our questions."

"We have very few secrets between us after all this time. What is weighing on your mind?"

"Your absence from the castle is giving rise to rumors. You've missed meals, staff meetings and the students no longer see you in the halls." Minerva looked down on her hands folded on her lap. "They've come to me to ask where you are and I ... I have nothing to say. I, of all people, should know your general whereabouts. Where have you been disappearing to, Albus?"

A small smile played upon Dumbledore's lips. "What are they saying about me?"

Minerva straightened. "I cannot repeat many of the rumors. Suffice it to say everything from an increased, er, social life to a new enemy out in the wilds has been mentioned."

Dumbledore quirked an eyebrow at her. "What did you think I was doing?"

"I just assumed that you were ... were away ... to ... be with ... see to ... personal matters," Minerva replied. "Is that so?"

"The matter is highly personal to me. It has required a surprisingly substantial investment of time and effort on my behalf."

Minerva pursed her lips. "Do you expect this ... this involvement to continue? Is it serious?"

"Oh, very," Dumbledore was thoughtful. He knew that involvement was one of Minerva's favorite euphemisms. "You see, Minerva, I've made a commitment."

Head down, Minerva flicked at a non-existent piece of lint on her robes. "Do I know her?"

"I don't believe so."

Minerva looked up and cleared her throat before speaking. "I hope she makes you happy, Albus."

"As one who knows me well, what advice on pleasing me would you have for her?" Albus looked earnestly at his deputy. "My habits good and bad, you know them all."

Minerva narrowed her eyes at her long time friend. "I would say that she ought to rethink her decision, any decision, where you are concerned." She saw the barest twitch at the corners of his mouth; a sure sign of a smile barely suppressed. "Must you always tease me, Albus Dumbledore!"

"I cannot resist, Minerva, truly I cannot." Albus chuckled. "You looked so serious as if the castle were about to collapse."

"I ought to collapse the castle about your ears. It is too late in the evening for such foolishness." She stood up and crossed her arms. "Now, tell me true. What mischief are you up to?"

"Your lack of faith in me is touching," Albus replied.

"It stems from experience. I know how you are when you are bored and out of sorts. Now out with it."

"It's a new project of mine. It's, ah, still at the thinking stage and I've been doing research and taking many, many notes." Dumbledore held up several scrolls. "I feel quite in the academic mode again."

Minerva studied the books and scrolls littering his desk. "I see. The staff will be disappointed."

"Would you like me to invent something more exotic? A tempestuous affair with a wood nymph? A new muggle candy I cannot live without, perhaps?"

Minerva smiled. "You would, too, invent something, wouldn't you."

"If it may help staff morale, then gladly," Albus leaned back into his chair. He found talking with Minerva relaxing. He could be himself with no thought of betrayal or miscommunication. He watched as Minerva peered at his notes. "That piece there is the Hogwarts section. My years as professor is there to the right."

"Years?"

Dumbledore grinned. "I am writing my autobiography, Minerva. I have made a commitment with a publisher."

"Albus, what a wonderful idea!"

"It was Filius' suggestion." He walked to the front of his desk to stand beside her. His right hand rose subconsciously to rest lightly on her back. With his left he pointed out the other piles of notes and things. "Over there is my alchemy research. That pile there is research on Grindelwald. And here in this empty spot will go my headmaster notes when I get to that time period."

Minerva was bewildered. "It's so organized."

"You did not think I had it in me," Dumbledore said. "Admit it!"

She turned her head and laughed. "Well, honestly, no."

"With the school running so efficiently and very few inquiries from the Ministry, I have the time to be organized. I have a very tight deadline with the publisher so I must make good progress in the time I have."

"When is your deadline?"

"The publisher would like the first draft of the overall outline in two weeks."

"Two weeks! That is very short. Can they not be reasonable?"

"I meant that it is due in two weeks. I've had a month and a half for the outline. I have a year to complete the book entirely."

Minerva straightened a tall teetering pile of notes. "Do you need help?"

Albus went to rummage about in his armoire. "Since you brought up the concerns of the staff, I believe it is time I explained my actions to them." He took out a small box filled with small scrolls. "Here is something that I need your help with." Albus placed the box on his desk careful not to shift his notes. "Each one of these scrolls has a name. Each scroll represents a person that I've had contact with through the years. I have distributed the majority of them already hence my frequent trips. The rest are for the staff here or for people in England. We have a staff meeting tomorrow and I would appreciate it if you could distribute these at the meeting."

"Of course, Albus," Minerva eyed the scrolls curiously. She could feel a sense of strong magic about them. "What are they for?"

"My publisher suggested that I interview people for the book. I know quite a large number of people. I could not possibly interview all of them. I have instead devised this manner of eliciting information. Each scroll has a list of questions pertaining to any relationship or activity that I shared with the recipient of the scroll. The scroll is charmed to reveal the absolute truthful answer to every question."

Minerva swallowed. "What kind of questions, Albus?"

"Simple ones. For example, when they worked with me and on what. My memory is not what it once was. Or, how do they feel about me. Questions that were I interviewing someone about me, I would ask." Albus held up a scroll and held it out to her. "This one is yours, Minerva."

Minerva slowly let out the breath she had been holding in. She hesitated to take it.

"It won't bite," Dumbledore teased.

"I hope not," Minerva replied. She took the scroll he offered her. The scroll gave off a quick spark when her fingers touched it. "The absolute truth, you said."

"It is more accurate to say that you could not put down a lie," Dumbledore explained. "Lies including evasions or empty flattery would be erased."

"What if the person refused to answer?"

"No, they cannot refuse. You see, once given to the recipient, the scroll remains visible on or near the person until all the questions are answered and the recipient orders it to be sent back."

"I see. A nuisance condition, how inventive." The words "absolute truth" echoed repeatedly in her thoughts.

"How else can I guarantee a response. I am looking forward to responses from certain individuals." Albus smiled.

"Severus, for one, should prove very entertaining." Minerva looked helplessly at the scroll in her hand. She resisted the urge to fling it out of the nearest window. "When do you need the responses?"

"As soon as they are filled out I would think. I have a list here that will coordinate the responses as I receive them. I believe two weeks is sufficient time to expect a response."

"Two weeks." Minerva said softly.

"It's not a test is it? A few minutes of time is all I ask." Dumbledore said airily as he pulled out the scrolls for the staff.

Minerva tucked the scroll in her robe pocket. "I ... I will say good night then, Albus."

"Pleasant dreams, my dear."

Dumbledore went back to his notes as Minerva left his office. How she managed the spiral staircase on shaky legs, she did not know.

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part 3
by rogueinker

The next day saw the faculty and staff in high spirits at dinner. Albus' scrolls were occupying the recipients to no end. Albus fielded many questions from his eager colleagues.

"I tried to put down 'barmy, old codger' and do you know what it did? Do you?" Professor Hooch was heard to remark to Professor Vector. "It said back 'do you mean barmy in the good sense?' Honestly, that is what it said."

Professor Snape scowled more fearsomely than ever. His own house had been the brunt of his foul mood losing fifty points altogether. at first, he had tried to burn and tear the scroll to no avail. Destructive spells and potions had no effect at all. The scroll lay on his desk as if mocking his every attempt. He had gone as far as burying the wretched thing in the Forbidden Forest after lunchtime. It materialized on his desk before dinner time. He muttered under his breath. "If he thinks I'm going to answer his questions, he will have a long, long wait."

Hagrid had carried his scroll everywhere he went. At odd moments he would take it out and redo an answer. Students had noticed the groundskeeper dabbing at his eyes as he wrote down an answer or two.

Professor Minerva McGonagall ate her dinner quietly and left the hall as soon as it was polite to do so. She mentioned the scroll not at all.



For the hundredth time in a week, Minerva unrolled the scroll. Most of the questions were answered except for two.

Question 1: How do you feel about me - as a colleague, as a friend and as a person? Answer each separately.

Question 2: If there was one thing you had never revealed to me but wanted to, what would it be?

Her hand shook as she wrote down an answer to the first question. Her words appeared on the parchment as "I respect and admire you greatly as a colleague." She took a deep breath before continuing. "As a friend, you have my deepest affection and .." The words 'deepest affection' were magically crossed off and the single word 'love' was written in. Minerva threw down the quill with some force. She covered her face with her hands. No matter what she wrote, the word love somehow found its way into her answer to both questions, always. She said the spell to remove her partial answer.

Albus had not started to ask about it yet but it was only a matter of time. She did what she could to divert his attentions. Each time she was with Albus she steered the conversation as far away from the scroll as much as possible. She encouraged him to go on more research trips while she looked after the school. She found areas in her notes that needed verification or correction thereby sending him scurrying off with robes flying.

Knowing Severus' own thwarted, futile efforts to rid himself of his scroll, Minerva struggled every night to write something; anything at all that did not translate into the word love. So far, she had been singularly unsuccessful. Her desperation was growing. She had to do something.



On the last evening of the allotted two weeks, as she sat in her office pondering the scroll yet again, a solution came to her. It was really quite simple. She didn't have to write the answers at all. She rolled up the scroll and went to see Albus. If I don't write it myself, how could the scroll know what the truth was? How, indeed?

"Albus, I have a problem that I need your help on."

Behind his desk, Albus looked at her over the top of his spectacles. "I am at your service as always, my dear."

"I have been marking essays all day. I'm simply worn out," Minerva sat down in her favorite chair. She made a point to slouch her shoulders and lay her head back. For effect, she lay quiet for a few seconds.

"You work too hard, Minerva. There is no task that cannot be put aside and done tomorrow." Dumbledore observed.

"Nothing but this," Minerva held her scroll aloft. "Your deadline is tomorrow. My hands are quite tired, Albus. Could you please write down my last answers for me?"

"I would be honored to do so. Hand it over please."

Minerva slowly took out the scroll from her robe and put in on his desk. "Thank you, Albus. The last week has simply been horrid."

"Tomorrow is Saturday, you shall have a lie in and rest. I shall look after your charges."

"Oh, could you? I feel such a headache coming on." Minerva rubbed her temples. She closed her eyes and leaned her head back.

"Think nothing of it." Albus unrolled the scroll and set his auto quill upon it. He scanned the scroll for the unanswered questions and committed them to memory. He said the first question to Minerva.

Minerva took a moment before responding. "I respect and admire you greatly as a colleague. As a friend, you have my deepest affection, loyalty, trust and, of course friendship. As a person, I can only say that your magnetism and charm draw people around you."

Without looking at the words appearing on the scroll, Albus said. "I do not deserve such high praise, Minerva."

Minerva brought her hand to rest over her eyes. "It is only the truth, Albus."

Albus asked the next question from memory. She answered with "I would like to tell you that your friendship, affection and trust is something that I truly cherish in my heart." Minerva felt a mixture of relief and sadness. Relief that her dilemma was over and sadness that she had not told him the truth.

Dumbledore could not respond. Her words echoed the same sentiments in his heart. But I would add love to that, Minerva, I would. Dumbledore looked at her closely. He knew every nuance of expression in her face and body. Her robes seemed looser around her. She's lost weight. He rose and went to her. "Minerva?"

"Yes, Albus?" Her eyes opened when she felt him lifting her hand.

"You are exhausted. That is plain to see. Let me escort you to your quarters," Albus took her other hand and gently coaxed her to her feet despite her protests. "I insist. Besides, I am in need of some hot cocoa and your quarters are on the way to the kitchens."

Minerva acquiesced. She was very tired after all. With a quick flick of Dumbledore's hand, the scroll rolled itself up and levitated into a box of finished responses. Together they walked through the corridors enveloped in a companionable silence; they were at ease in each other's presence and words superfluous.

[Kandice]

A very good beginning. I'm dying to know what questions are asked.

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part 4
by rogueinker


A week later, Professor Snape surrendered. He had passed the two week grace period and the scroll's nuisance condition was in full force. The scroll made his life miserable. It hovered around him just out of reach. It intruded into his lessons with sudden broadcasts from the wireless service or renditions on the virtues of punctuality and truthfulness. Finally, it started to repeat the questions and his answers (where there were any) whenever any person was within hearing distance. That would not have been embarrassing in of itself, however, the scroll never forgot a word it had written. So, it also repeated the professor's honest answers, all of them even the ones he had thought erased.

The fourth year potions class was treated to Snape's confessions of seeing the headmaster as a father figure for whom he had the utmost respect and love. Yes, love, as a son for a father, the scroll clarified. The students did their best to stifle their snickers. Red-faced, Snape could take no more. He slammed the scroll on to his desk and scribbled his answers. He then went to the headmaster's office to personally deliver it.

Inside his office, the headmaster was just beginning to sift through all the finished responses. His office door opened with a bang. "Severus, do come in," He began.

"I have done some difficult things in my life, Albus, but this," Severus tossed the scroll on to the desk. "this is heinous! The most tortuous thing I have had to endure! Ever!"

"Wish you had thought of it yourself?"

"Too bloody right!" Snape huffed. "I hope you're happy. I am about to take mass quantities of points from my fourth year class of Gryffindors and Hufflepuffs. It will be on your head if Minerva raises a fuss."

"Of course, Severus, just send her to me." Dumbledore agreed absently as he read over Snape's scroll. He sniffed once before looking at the potions master. "Thank you, Severus, for everything."

"It's the truth," Snape shuffled his feet.

"I assure you that I will burn all these responses once I've read them and noted any salient, non-personal information. Will that suffice?" Albus began to lay out the remaining scrolls he had to read. Minerva's was right on top.

"They don't burn."

"They will but only for me."

Snape gritted his teeth. "And what of the sheer embarrassment that I have suffered because of you, I want -"

"I only gave you the opportunity for some self examination, Severus. Don't you feel better about having told me the truth?"

Snape slapped his hand on the desk. "In private, Albus, why couldn't you do it privately. I am a laughingstock!"

"If you had answered within the time period specified, you need not have had to suffer at all."

"Let us see how you like it." Snape grabbed the scroll closest to him - Minerva's. He read the first answer he saw. I respect and admire you greatly as a colleague. As a friend, you have my love, loyalty, trust and, of course, friendship. As a person, I can only say that your attractiveness and charm draw people around you."

The headmaster was stunned. "Love?"

"Attractiveness?" Snape looked at the headmaster, then at the note, then back to the headmaster. His eyes scanned the rest of the scroll. "Minerva?"

Dumbledore grabbed the scroll. He read another response. " 'I would like to tell you that your love is something that I truly cherish in my heart.' That's not what she said. I know that's not what she said. She said friendship and affection and trust."

"But she meant love. In her secret heart, she's in love with you," Snape said smugly. After promising not to mention anything to Minerva, Snape left the disbelieving headmaster frantically double checking the veracity charm used on the scrolls. Snape strode to his dungeons with a spring in his step. He was still going to deduct points but he was going to feel so much better about it. Life is good.

[Sensiblyquirky]

you just had to stop there didn't you! I really like this story, and I love the idea.

Can't wait for the next bit,

Christy

[ginger newts]

What an excellent and original idea! And a very mean place to stop... I'm beyond hooked and I hope there's more very soon.

[delenndumbledore]

Wow!!! That's a great and interesting new story!!!

The autobiography of Albus Dumbledore...that's indeed material for big book . I hope he'll have enough time to finish it after the discovery of Minerva's real feelings

Greetings Delenn Dumbledore

PS. I order one specimen of the biography

[Nerweniel]

Ohhhh great idea indeed! I absolutely love this and hope there will be a next chapter soon *grin*. Oh and one copy of the biography for me too, please ;D .

Damn- okay, now you've awakened the "write an autobiography of Minerva" plotbunny which has been torturing me for like months again ;D! Eek!

Love,

Lies

[Isabelle]

This a great start! I like the idea of ALbus writing his autobiography. That wasn't an idea that wouldn't have ever crossed my mind. Very inventive, I like it. Bravo!

Liz

P.S. Welcome to the board!!

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part Four
by rogueinker


Two months later, the publishing house, Gutenberg Wizarding Press, announced the impending publication of the autobiography of none other than Albus Dumbledore. A thrilling excerpt of the duel against Grindelwald printed in the Prophet fed the growing hunger for the book. Flourish and Blotts had to hire extra staff just to handle the advanced copy requests for the book. The gates of Hogwarts was besieged by media requesting interviews or more snippets from the book.

Having been included in the excerpt, in very glowing terms no less, Minerva found herself in demand for interviews and commentary. It was not a situation much to her liking. At tea one Saturday, she groused and complained in a manner that Albus thought amusing and endearing.

"But why did you have to include me in that excerpt. I wasn't there for the final battle and -"

"My dear, your intelligence work was crucial to the war effort."

"My work was and is classified as you well know."

Dumbledore put his tea cup down. "I thought you knew that the Ministry had recently declassified that material. I requested it in fact."

Minerva was plainly horrified. "You don't mean that!"

"Your experiences in the field during that time has been the basis of decades of field work training for both Aurors and Unspeakables. It is about time that people became aware of your contributions."

"Albus, some of the things I did, I am far from proud of. They were not ... not things that I was raised to ... to do or to be."

Albus took one of her hands in his. "You did extraordinary things, Minerva. You made decisions that saved many, many lives, mine included."

Minerva looked down at her hand engulfed in his. "We all did what had to be done. I did my part."

"That may be but I am certain that without your help, I could not have been in the right place, at the right time, to face Grindelwald. I discovered in my research that I never thanked you properly." Albus brought her hand to his lips. He bent to brush his lips against her soft skin before placing a kiss upon it. He looked up to see her wide open eyes watching him. He murmured. "Thank you, Minerva."

Her throat constricted by emotions she dared not acknowledge in his presence, Minerva could only nod.

"Well, I hope that is that," Dumbledore rose to his feet still holding her hand. "I have a few things to attend to."

"Yes, as do I." Minerva replied grateful for any excuse to leave Albus' disturbing presence. Ever since answering the scroll, Minerva had found her emotions bubbling to the surface far more often than she cared for.

"You won't forget about dinner will you, Minerva? You know how I look forward to our Saturday dinner engagements. It helps take my mind off my book, a much welcome reprieve."

"That depends. Where are we dining tonight?"

Albus kissed her hand once more before letting it go. "You said last week that you wanted to try something continental. So tonight it shall be Georges in Amsterdam."

"Georges, I have not been there in ages. I shall be in the front hall at eight sharp." Minerva turned and left unaware of the eyes that followed in her wake.



Four months later, Minerva found herself in the headmaster's office meeting a young woman of thirty with a pleasant face and even disposition. Her name was Alicia Cornwell.

"Now, Alicia, I'm sure you're eager to start with your new duties," Albus began. "Your office is ready and waiting."

"I am more than ready, sir. My family couldn't believe it when I told them I was the new personal assistant to Minerva McGonagall." Alicia did not lack for youthful enthusiasm. "Imagine me! I never thought to actually be working here."

"You are highly qualified, Alicia." Albus chuckled. "Professor McGonagall, as my exceptional deputy, deserves the best."

Minerva liked Alicia very much. For Alicia's sake, she refrained from rolling her eyes heavenward. Yet another excerpt had been printed in the Prophet. This time it had been about Dumbledore's early years as headmaster. Too late she discovered that he had included her work on modernizing the castle from its interior architecture to its accounting system. She had been most vexed with him. Besides a doubling of interview requests, she was now having to deal with agents asking to represent her in publishing her own series of management books. It was all too much to bear. Now with Alicia's hiring, Minerva was more than ready to give Albus a piece of her mind. Minerva summoned a house elf.

When the elf appeared, Minerva said. "Dobby, please show Ms. Cornwell to her new office. It's the new one by mine. Alicia, let's consider today as your settling in day. Go ahead and set your office to your comfort and organization. I shall get you at lunch and after lunch in the hall, we will tour the castle. All right?"

Alicia nodded and followed Dobby out. Her head swivelled from left to right trying to take in all she saw and heard. Minerva waited until the door had clicked shut. Seeing the glint of determined intent in his deputy's eyes, Albus braced himself.

She stared at him silently for a time much as a cat would study a cornered mouse. Albus waited her out. Still not saying a word, she sat on one edge of his desk. Her regard was steady and unrelenting. Albus swallowed finding it difficult to maintain a neutral expression or to avoid shrinking into his chair. She leaned slightly towards him. She whispered one word. "Why?"

The cat wants to play, he thought. Well, so do I. "Isn't it obvious?"

Minerva traced lazy circles on his desk as she replied. "Why do you persist?"

With her gaze downward, she did not notice Albus' eyes roaming, lovingly, along her form. His eyes lingered on Minerva's elegant curve of neck and her striking profile. She was not a stunning beauty but she fascinated him more than any other. "Me? Persist in what, my dear?"

"You persist in disordering my life without my knowledge." Minerva said her next words carefully and with emphasis locking eyes with her friend and superior. "I do not like it."

"Yet, you continually impose order upon chaos. You are driven to do so."

"I am your deputy. The well-ordered running of this institution is my responsibility. Everything and everyone at Hogwarts is my responsibility."

"And you are mine," Albus said simply.

Albus' words took the wind out her sails. His concern and regard shone clearly from his eyes. She walked over to the window and stared out at the lake. Nothing was said between as they, from long practice, let their argument pass.

She felt him him approach her. He said. "You are taking me to task for seeing to the welfare of someone who has always thought of others more than of herself. Someone has to look after you, why won't you let me?"

"Whether I let you or not, you do it anyway," Minerva replied.

"Is it so disagreeable to you?" Albus leaned in a little, invading her space. "Tell me so I may make adjustments to regain your favor."

Minerva did not answer. The tension caused by their argument seeped out of her body. Inwardly, she yearned to turn around, wrap her arms about his neck, look into his eyes and tell him the truth. The past few months their friendship had progressed past the familiarity imbued by years of acquaintance to a fledgling sense of the other; she dared not call it intimacy except in the privacy of her heart. She had discovered more and more to love about this man.

Albus pressed closer to her. Softly, for her ear alone, he said. "I am trying, in my inadequate way, to apologize for my seemingly high-handed ways, Minerva. I should have told you about the excerpt. I may be the head of Hogwarts but you are its heart. People need to know that."

Minerva clenched her fists by her side. If not, she would have flung her arms around him then and there. "You should have told me. I was unprepared for the ... the onslaught."

"I am sorry. With my book, I have not been as much of a help to you. I had thought that Alicia would allow you to remove yourself from the more tedious duties of administration." Knowing that their argument was over, Albus teased her. "What can I do to earn your forgiveness, oh deputy of mine?"

Minerva turned around. She gasped at realizing how close they stood. Her hand landed on his chest. "You can start by promising to never surprise me like that again."

Before he lost his nerve, Albus bent down and kissed her on the cheek. "I promise, Minerva. You will have no cause to complain anymore."

Minerva stood immobile. Her body felt cold, numb except for the burning spot on her cheek where he had kissed her. It was a kiss between friends. Do not make more of it than that, she admonished herself. Trying to regain her equilibrium, she resorted to teasing him in return. "See that you do, Albus, because I may not be so forgiving next time. Now, if you will excuse, I need to check on Alicia."

Once Minerva had departed, Albus turned to Fawkes and said. "She is a proud, independent woman. Filius said I needed a challenge and she is that. I have had to thread carefully but we are making progress, Fawkes."

[QuillofMinerva]

Firstly, welcome to the board. Nice to have you on board!

Wow, what a great idea for a story! I like the idea of Albus writing his own story in his own words rather than through Rita Skeeta's.

I am looking forward to the next update, which I hope will be soon as I can't wait to find out how this story progresses

Keep up the great work

Clayre xx

[Kandice]

Very original. I like the way you captured Minerva's personality. I'm intrigued at how Albus will proceed.

[Jestana]

EEEE! I love this! Especially how Albus found out that she loves him. *giggle* I can't wait for more. *grin*

[Stoneygem]

ooooy, I like that. It's very good.
Albus is writing his autobiography (come on, who else could really do that) and uses it as a cover to woo Minerva. Great idea. Simply splendid.

But do i see you torturing the two? You are sooo cruel. ;D
Please, give us more...and soon.

[Isabelle]

This was lovely. I like how they interact with each other and how you developed Minerva's personality! Bravo!

Liz

[ginger newts]

Hehe, sounds like a good portion of Albus' book will be about Minerva, I wonder why. I do hope one or the other of them speaks up soon. Keep the updates coming!

[Sensiblyquirky]

I am very intriguied, and I also like the way in which you have characterized Albus and Minerva. Awaiting the next installment,

Christy

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part 5
by rogueinker



The owl swooped through the open windows lowering itself gracefully in front of the headmaster at breakfast. It held its leg out. Albus recognized the owl, Erato, owned by the publishing house. Albus gave the owl a long strip of bacon. The message was short for he paid it only a slight glance. As the owl flew out, the headmaster turned to his deputy.

"Minerva, I would like to inform you that another excerpt will be appearing in the afternoon edition of the Prophet."

"What is the topic this time? Do I need to prepare myself?"

"It concerns an area of my life that by comparison to the rest is little known." Dumbledore poured another cup of tea for both himself and Minerva. "With the publication date only two months away, my publisher felt that it was a good time to release another excerpt."

Minerva narrowed her eyes at him. "And I am not mentioned at all?"

"I did say that you would not have anything more to worry about, did I not?" Dumbledore smiled shyly at her. "Be assured that your name does not appear within the excerpt."

"Thank you for informing me, Albus." She smiled back at. "Consider your previous offense forgiven."

Albus buttered his toast. "Will you be ready to leave for the Australian conference with me?"

"We leave at eleven do we not?"

"Yes. Our plane leaves at 12:30." Dumbledore stroked his beard. "Perhaps we can play chess to while away the hours of the trip."

Minerva looked beyond Albus to the charms professor seated to his left. "Filius, as we are leaving at noon, you are nominally the deputy headmaster as of right now. I have left a list of issues that may arise with Alicia."

Filius nodded encouragingly. "Do not worry, Minerva. Alicia and I will be fine."

"Don't forget Fawkes!"

"He will be showered with attention so Filius assures me." Albus winked at the head of Ravenclaw.

Minerva clucked under her breath. "Oh, Albus, are you sure you have settled any lingering matters with the Ministry? Owl traffic will be very delayed, if at all."

Dumbledore patted her hand. "I issued written and verbal instructions yesterday. They are aware that they disturb me at their peril."

Minerva turned her attention to her assistant seated at her right. "Alicia, do not forget that the annual inventory is in two months. It is never too early to begin preparing our plan of attack. There are a great many things to catalogue from linens to portraits. I suggest that while I am away you use the time familiarize yourself with last year's plan."

Alicia said cheerfully. "I've already done that, professor."

"Familiarized yourself with last year's plan, already? Very good. That will save a great of time."

"No, professor, I meant the plan for this year," Alicia answered. "I put it on your desk before I came here. And I thought of a possible way to have the portraits help with the inventory."

Minerva gaped at the young woman. She blinked a few times. "I applaud your initiative."

Albus beamed happily. "We should not be surprised. The chancellor at Glastonbury Academy did give me a glowing recommendation for Alicia."

Alicia blushed. "Professor McGonagall is an excellent teacher and her management system is flawless."

Filius piped in. "So, Minerva, go to the conference and enjoy it. We have things well in hand here."

"It will be a nice change I suppose," Minerva said.

"We seldom have opportunities to attend professional conferences in the middle of the term. I for one am determined to enjoy it. I am equally determined to see to it that you do the same." Albus rose out of his chair. "Filius, I have a few last minute items to discuss with you. Please follow me to my office."



The afternoon edition of any newspaper seldom has the same importance as its first or last edition. The afternoon edition of the Daily Prophet carrying the new excerpt was an exception. From noon onward, the excerpt was the topic of many conversations in homes, offices and stores throughout Britain. The rejuvenated Wizengamot was hard pressed to continue with normal business when one of its members brought the news to their collective attention. It contained, as the publisher had predicted, the most interesting and surprising fact about Albus Dumbledore.

The staff at Hogwarts was not immune. The noon meal at the school was unusual in the absence of both the headmaster and the deputy headmistress. It was also unusual because students drifted from house table to house table discussing the excerpt. The faculty speculated throughout the meal.

Poppy folded the paper after her third reading. "Well, we all know who it is, don't we?"

"The question is not who but what. What will Minerva's reaction be once she sees this?" Snape put in.

"We're all assuming that it's her he's referring to. What if it's not so?" Vector asked. He was immediately pelted with a variety of bread rolls from various directions.

"Don't be daft, Vector!" cried Hooch. "Our intrepid headmaster has been wooing our elegant if oblivious deputy for months now."

"I don't think she's as oblivious as she makes herself out to be, Hooch," Poppy responded. "She is no green maid after all."

"Really?!" The flying instructor's eyes glittered. "She's been deliberately making him work for it?"

"Perhaps. I am saying nothing more than that. It is their business and we should stay out of it." Poppy replied. "Well out of it."

Alicia sniffed and dabbed her eyes. "I think it's the height of romance. It's beautiful."

Alicia began to read softly to herself. She read the excerpt with such sincerity and warmth that the hall quieted down to hear.

The excerpt below:

It is often said of me that I am fearless. I am flattered and must inform you that that is a lie. All my life, every hour, every second, I have been afraid. I have not been afraid for myself but afraid for that being whom I would one day choose to hold dearer than my own heart, more vital to me than my own breath. I speak of a life companion - a wife, a lover, a friend. I have always been afraid that if ever I met that companion that I would do irreparable harm to her. Me, not my enemies, but me, and by my own hand, with my own words.

But someone made me realize through the simple gifts of friendship, loyalty and trust that such a personal fear can be overcome through patience, humor and acceptance. Through her eyes and actions, I have seen that a fear shared is a fear no more. In time, fear is overshadowed, but not replaced, by the most powerful essence and expression which we have within us all. I speak of love.



A/N: I've always thought that the fear of someone as powerful and wise as AD had to be something personal and something that he would have no control over. I think the most personal fear is the fear of hurting someone we care for. A word, an action - one never knows when such can wound someone else or be misunderstood which leads to hurt. I've found that as people are together longer, whether friends or lovers, that the fear goes away because of being trusted and accepted by the other(s). But it does take time and patience. Getting off preachy soapbox now.

Thank you for welcoming me to the board. I am seriously trying to rehabilitate my atrocious updating habits.

rogueinker

[Nerweniel]

Very true and very beautiful. Great chapter, and once more welcome to the board ;D. Squee for rehabilitation, by the way !

Love,

Liz

[Jestana]

Oh, lovely update! Bravo! I love it! *grin*

[mugglemin]

Wohoo! An new story from you! And another great one...now...update please, asap! ;D

[ginger newts]

Oh that was beautiful. I can't wait to see Minerva's reaction. This is such a good story, please update soon. Oh, and a belated welcome to the boards from me.

[delenndumbledore]

Oh yes...I like this story. He is a clever boy...our esteemed Headmaster ;D. Publishing a declaration of love while he disappears with his beloved "victim" to Australia .

I'm very interesting in how Minerva reacts after she has found out his little secret ;D.

Greetings Delenn Dumbledore

[Isabelle]

This is lovely. ALbus sounds so sincere! Bravo!

Liz

[QuillofMinerva]

oh this was a wonderful but sad chapter, Albus' words in his excerpt were wonderful

[rogueinker]

The Spoken Truth
Part 6
by rogueinker

The day after Albus and Minerva's departure, Henkel's Mercury Couriers received a new order. As George Henkel IV looked at the owl letter, he knew that he was looking at the order of a lifetime. The motto of Henkel's Mercury Couriers was "Speed and discretion for over a hundred years" and as such they handled only the most exclusive of orders. His handlebar mustache twitched spasmodically as he read the letter. It was from Gutenberg Wizarding Press' owner Robert Warden. It said:

George,

I give to your charge the most important book of the year or even the decade. The first complete proof copy of Albus Dumbledore's book is ready for his review and final editing. I need one of your couriers to retrieve the proof from my office and deliver to Australia where Albus is attending a conference.

I need not emphasize the need for the utmost discretion in this matter. No one must know that the proof is complete otherwise Albus will have no peace from the public. Please inform me when I can expect a courier.

Robert


With a quick spell, George burned the letter. Robert had after all insisted upon discretion and Henkel's would follow to letter. He took out his traveling cloak. He would do this job himself. Apparating as far as Australia in one day was not possible especially weighted down with a parcel. However, two or three days, apparating closer and closer each day, was quite realistic.



From the airport, Albus and Minerva headed straight to the conference. They participated in panel discussions as well as met with fellow Transfiguration masters from all over the world. Now, close on nine o'clock, elated but weary, they made their way to their hotel along with other wizards and witches staying at the same wizarding hotel.

The night clerk stammered through his greeting. "Ah, yes, madam, your reservation is all in order. Your suite is just up the stairs there. Room 415."

Minerva arched her brow. "One suite?"

"Yes, madam with one bedroom, bath and a sitting room," said the clerk. He placed the key on the counter.

Minerva drew herself to her full height, jutted her chin out and said. "I had thought that arrangements had been made for two suites not one. And though our arrangements were made rather hastily I can assure they were done correctly."

The clerk gulped. "Well, madam, the original booking was for two rooms. However, only one of those rooms was guaranteed against a late arrival. We are a full hotel, madam, so the one room left unguaranteed was let to another patron."

Minerva looked around for Albus. She spotted him in the lobby conversing with a delegate from Japan. She and Albus had come to an understanding in the last month. Their dinners out had gradually changed to romantic dates. But even so, she was not ready for anything more serious than passionate good night kisses at her chamber door. Well, nothing more until she knew where she stood with Albus. She dared not assume anything where he was concerned.

She leaned over the counter and said softly but firmly, "Very well, I understand, now register me into a new room, if you please."

The clerk shook his head. "I'm very sorry, madam. As I said, we are quite full. There are no suites available."

Irritated and tired, Minerva snapped, her Scottish brogue pronounced. "Any room will do, lad. Be quick about it."

The clerk scanned his registry once more. "Madam, there are no rooms of any kind available." The clerk noticed Albus heading towards the counter and recognized him. His glance went to Minerva. He quickly arrived at the nature of the situation.

Minerva had also noticed Albus' approach. She hissed. "You must have a room, perhaps at another hotel."

"Madam, the suite is quite spacious and the sofa in the sitting room is large and comfortable." The clerk added. "If there are any available rooms tomorrow, I will certainly reserve for you, madam."

"Do so." Minerva did not add anything else to her reply not wanting Albus to overhear.

"It was a very good idea to attend the conference but I'm ready for bed, Minerva," Albus announced upon reaching her side. In his arms he carried his and Minerva's bags. "Young man, can you please see to having a hot cup of cocoa delivered to my room?"

"It would be my pleasure, Headmaster Dumbledore."

Dumbledore smiled. "Wonderful. Let's go to our rooms then."

The clerk bowed his head to hide his amusement. Minerva, unable to bear further embarrassment, grabbed the lone key and led Albus away at a fast clip.

Albus had no objections whatsoever to sharing the room. Gallantly, he gave Minerva the bedroom while he transfigured the sofa into a small bed.

"I've been promised the first room available tomorrow, Albus, so you need only bear with me tonight." Minerva said putting some pillows on the transfigured sofa.

"I wouldn't mind sharing the room the entire time we're here, my dear."

"You may not have the same opinion in the morning," Minerva held out one end of a bed sheet to him. "I can be a bear sometimes."

Grabbing the other end, Albus stretched the sheet over his makeshift accommodations. "I am quite sure that I would not mind seeing you as you are, fresh from sleep."

"Bags under my eyes, my hair a mess. Just the sight to start your day." Minerva tucked the last corner under then straightened.

Albus walked closer to her. He arms slid around her waist. Though he made no move to pull her hard against him, still he felt the pounding of her heart. "Maybe, but you would be MY mess." His lips found the exact point where her pulse beat on her throat. "May I have my good night kiss?"

In answer, she cupped his face with her hands and touched her lips to his. His tongue darted forward, nudging, until her lips parted. His tongue darted and traced feeling the contours of her mouth, tasting her essence. Albus thought he knew what a kiss was, what it felt like. But this kiss with this woman was a kiss.

Albus reluctantly broke the kiss before his limit was reached. He embraced her hard once then let her go. He walked her to her room. "Sleep well, Minerva."

Exhausted from their non-stop day both fell into a sound sleep.


A/N: Tried to balance the tension with some romance without getting sappy. Let us see what the morning brings ....

[Jestana]

*giggle* Poor Min. I can't wait to see what's next. *grin*

[Isabelle]

Poor Minerva, I hope she's not too ferocious in the morning. Cant wait to to see what's next!

Liz

[rogueinker]

Ferocious? As far as I can tell, she has given him notice and warning. So, whatever happens in the morning is entirely his fault.

He's a grown man and should be able to cope.