When The Leaves Change

[EloquentPhoenix]

You tell him Minerva ! Lovely chapter and it's set me up for the day, so thank you.

[Nerweniel]

Aaaw, dear, that's an absolutely wonderful chapter . Love it and hope you write more soon ;D!

[Jessabelle]

A very excellent post. The knew developement in their relationship is great and Minerva certainly did a good job at putting Allbus in his place! What is to happen now that Aramando knows though? Please post again soon!
- Jess

[Isabelle]

Such a lovely chapter. It seemed as though they'd switched roles for a while there. I liked how they interacted with each other in this chapter. I hope you update soon!

Liz

[ismaco]

Oh Christy, dear... I LOVED it! I loved Min getting mad with Albus and, of course, I loved Albus not having an equal because of the amount of love running through his veins.

I also liked a lot this line:
"he would die in a future battle or he would sacrifice himself."
I agree with you. For me Albus cannot be killed while he is pleading! *eyes glistening with hope*

Excellent chapter!
Love, Isabel

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter 16: I thought about waiting at least another day to post, but I decided to go ahead! I hope you enjoy...

Once Albus felt he had regained enough energy to face the Headmaster we sent for Minky so that she could inform him of our impending arrival. When Minky arrived I noticed she had a slightly dishelved look about her, which was highly unusual. She was flustered and short of breath while her pillowcase was slightly off kilter on her shoulders. I inquired into her health and received a warm reply, but resolved to investigate further nonetheless.

Albus’ pallor and demeanor had returned to an acceptable state, but his gait had yet to fully recover. In order to avoid the concerned student or two we might encounter on our way we walked at a slow pace so that no limp could be seen.

Very little in the way of conversation passed between us until we stood outside the stone gargoyle that guarded the Hogwarts’ head’s office, “Minerva I’ve known Armando for quite some time and he’ll be more composed today, however let me do most of the talking.”

“He has a right to be angry, Albus. What do you plan on saying by way of explaining ourselves?”

“I haven’t got that figured out just yet, but do not fear.” Albus failed to decrease my anxiety.

The headmaster was indeed calmer than he had been the day before, yet a firmness in his jaw combined with a steeliness in his eye had yet to take their leave.

“Well, may I assume you let Minerva help you or is this your last stop before the grave?”

“Minerva is a very able nurse; I’ll be completely healed in a few days. Thank you for sending for her.”

I permitted a small smile to grace my lips by way of a response to Albus’ statement, but the Headmaster successfully rid me of it in a short amount of time.

“Explain,” he commanded suddenly and Albus did as instructed. Careful to leave a few details out Albus told of the creature’s discovery, its placement in Hagrid’s care, and the work we had done to discover the individual who brought it on the property.

“That’s all very well and good, but why did you keep the information from me,” was the calm reply.

“I hoped to solve the issue without bothering you until necessary and as the time increased I saw no suitable way to approach it. As of late I confess to being too busy to give the creature much thought.”

“Yes, I daresay you have,” Dippet dryly commented while throwing a pointed look my way. For my part I did not blush nor did I lower my eyes.

“The truth Albus is that you did not trust me. You chose to keep me in the dark in case I should have been the cause of such trouble.”

It was a moment before Albus replied, his hands poised together at the tips, “I never considered you a viable suspect, but I did keep my avenues open.”

A lesser man, or a man unaccustomed to Albus’ eccentric ways, would have acted outwardly against the professor, but Dippet nodded before setting his own parameters.

“I will not deny that I am disappointed in the way this entire affair has been handled, but I’m willing to give you a chance to solve it on your own. Since you wished to control this investigation I will give you forty-eight hours to solve the problem and have the creature removed from these grounds, or I will call in the ministry. Forty-eight hours only.”

Recognizing this as the end of our interview Albus and I retreated back to his rooms to discuss the various options we had before us, “The girls night last night was interrupted, as you know, I could call them back and explain what bit you. I could fudge the details in order to give the impression that the Chimera was discovered only last night. If our suspect is a woman, as I am wont to believe, a majority of the women at Hogwarts would then be alerted to its finding.”

“I’m afraid we don’t have much of a choice at this point. Are you sure you think it is a woman?”

“I am not one hundred percent certain as it was very dark, but your stature even shrouded in darkness could not be mistaken for a woman’s. Is their man on staff that is slight of frame?”

“Not so slight as to be mistaken for a woman, with or without a cloak. I’ll speak to Georgette.”

“Yes, but do make sure a lot of distance is between you. I heard about her desire for you.”

Albus had been pacing in front of the fireplace, but at my teasing he took up residence beside me on the settee. Though we were both worried about what the next forty-eight hours would contain Albus’ touch was gentle as he massaged my scalp. Willingly I laid my head into his lap in order to receive more of his magical touch.

“Albus should I tell the girls the ministry will be here in forty-eight hours or omit that there is a timetable?”

“If no one moves tonight then let it be known over breakfast tomorrow or during a break that the ministry will collect the creature that evening. As for tonight I’ll ask Hagrid to remain in his home, while I wait for any visitors outside.”

“Do stay away from the chimera, please,” I requested as my eyes grew heavier as a result of Albus’ ministrations and my lack of sleep. His hands stopped and I knew Albus was attempting to glare through me, but he soon continued for he loved playing with my hair too much to stop.

“I was hoping you would agree to transform into tabby and keep a look out near Hagrid’s door. Should someone approach follow them.”

“I thought tabby would be appropriate tonight. I need to assemble the ladies soon,” was my reluctant reply as I truly wished to remain where I was.

“You still have some time and you’ll need your sleep to be up most of the evening. Take a nap here; I’ll wake you in two hours and you can take a pepper up potion for just tonight.”

I was too tired to protest needing sleep and gladly gave in, especially when Albus agreed to lie with me until I was asleep. It did not take long for sleep to overtake me as Albus’ warm loving arms held me close.

My friends were easily found sometime later and I explained the situation as Albus and I had decided it should be to them. All sat silently reflecting over the information between hurried glances at each other once the knowledge that the culprit could be in the room was made apparent.

During this time I carefully analyzed each face as best I could. Siri was worried, but she met my eyes more than the others. I simply could not believe she would have a need for a chimera. Joanna was severe, an expression that did not suit her, and her eyes maintained a fierce gaze on the hands that twisted in her lap. Verena lounged back in her chair, conjuring a cigarette as she did so to puff away her anxiety. Cynthia was quiet as well but it appeared as if her mind was working fast, and this puzzled me. Careful not to attract attention I watched her longer than anyone else, which afforded me the opportunity to notice she had lost weight since we first met and at that moment her face was considerably paler.

My gaze was disturbed when Joanna stood to leave and the rest of the women followed. While dining together in my chambers before our plans for the evening were to take place I asked Albus if he knew much about Cynthia.

“She has always been polite, but she’s never divulged much about her life. We’ve never gone beyond colleagues, why?”

“I’ve noticed she has been rather frazzled as of late and absent from a lot of affairs. This afternoon after I told them she seemed pale, but it was as if her mind was working in overdrive to analyze. If it was she why would she need a chimera?”

“No clue, but I think that is too narrow of an approach. There could be other reasons for having the chimera.”

“I suppose, but she would have had to have known Kristoff. If no one comes tonight I want to contact the apprentice first thing in the morning to ask if he knows any of our staff. I don’t know why we did not think about that before.”

“We did not want him to know we had the chimera as that would have been rather obvious we were lying before.”

“True, but tomorrow we will be running out of time. Did you tell Georgette,” I asked interested in how that situation had gone.

“I did.”

“How did that go?”

“She cared little for that piece of information.” Albus seemed a little too preoccupied with his beef in my opinion so I pressed further.

“Which information did she care for then?”

“I did not say she did-”

“But you implied, oh Albus just tell me. Did she throw herself at you?”

“Well she had some very unkind things to say about you, my dear, which required my defense of you. She left me very upset that I did not give in to what she argued were her superior womanly ways. I thought to myself that she obviously did not know you as intimately as I do.”

An intense heat rose up my neck and into my cheeks as I locked eyes with Albus, deciding some teasing was in order I slowly licked my lips while sliding my foot along his calf underneath the table. His eyes darkened instantly, but his hand grabbed my foot before I could remove it from harm’s way.

“Let’s not start something we can’t finish, I’d hate for you to be frustrated as you sit upon Hagrid’s stoop all alone tonight.”

“It was your frustration that was the object, Professor Dumbledore. You deserve more punishment for your escapade the other evening.”

Tickling my foot slightly Albus replied, “at least wait until my punishment can be enjoyable and rewarding for us both.”

“Then it would not be a true punishment.”

We spent the rest of dinner teasing enough to heighten the excitement, but we would curtail our actions if the atmosphere became too intense. Once we had finished dining we readied for the evening before I transformed into tabby. During this time Albus crushed my lips to his making me promise twice to be careful, but he robbed me of my breath when he whispered that he loved me before I transformed.

The night air was cold, but Hagrid had been kind enough to sweep a little snow from his stoop so I watched from the dry spots. The clouds signaling an impending snow storm had arrived late in the afternoon which forced many of the stars into hiding so that little light pierced the darkness. However I was appreciative that my animagus’ eyesight was as sharp as it was.

Though in my tabby-cat form I had the ability to think about a multiplicity of events while waiting for our suspect to bite the trap we had set, and my mind repeatedly turned over the few pieces of information we had on the Chimera. Further I tried to run through what I knew about each of the women in the castle, spending less time on Siri and more time on Cynthia. I lost track of the time as I sat rigidly on the cold stoop, but sometime later I saw a figure approaching Hagrid’s hut. I moved to crouch off the stoop in order to get a closer look and was shocked to see Georgette approach.

Knowing my job was to follow I still hesitated, and chose not to follow. I could not believe Georgette would have transported a Chimera, or any creature for that matter, to Hogwarts, and nor could I believe she possessed enough know how to pull it off. I did not doubt her ability to seduce most men, save my Albus, into her arms, but I did lack confidence in her overall abilities. Hoping Albus would not worry I continued to wait.

Ten minutes later another figure approached at a much more rapid pace than Georgette, and though the face was obscured by the large hood of the cloak around its shoulders I knew it was the same figure that had stunned me in the evening.

This time I followed, but the figure stopped and turned to face me holding a wand in my direction, “Minerva, I’m sorry…”

[ismaco]

That was CRUEL!! ;D
PLEASE... UPDATE SOON!!
Isabel

[bee.]

Whoa-that was so good. Absolutely dreadful place to stop though. If it's Siri, I'll chop my ear off. Maybe. I'm hoping for a speedy update for obvious reasons.

-b

[JKMcGonagall]

Christy...how could you stop there. Ohhhhh, that is evil of you. UPDATE VERY SOON...Please, pleeaase, pleeeeeeaaaase...I'm begging.

Your story is excellent, and you definitely have a way with cliff hangers. I know, because I am dangling way out there.

Kay

[nena]

Wow! That was so mean! Even if it is a great story....

I want to know what happens next!

Can't wait for the next chapter!

[avadagypsy]

ah! A cliffhanger I see! UPDATE SOON PLZ!
Gypsy

[Trulyamused]

Whoa. What happens? What happens?

Hurry, update soon.

Truly

[Isabelle]

GASP!! That was cruel! You must update soon! This was a lovely chapter. I loved the sweet moments and of course, now I'm hanging by a thread, but...anyway you must post again soon!!

Liz

[Jessabelle]

I cannot believe you just stopped there. Ugh, how frustrating! Please post again soon ..........

[EloquentPhoenix]

How can you stop there!?! Evil!!! Please, please update soon and I hope that Min is ok.

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter 17:

Thanks to all for suffering through the cliff hanger at the end of the last chapter.

I was not as unprepared as before, therefore I easily evaded the spell that was targeted toward my approximate position and transformed in one fluid motion. Pulling my wand from my inner robe I turned to face my attacker, having already recognized the voice that addressed me.

“Why,” I asked hoping she would desist in an attack before I was forced to partake in a duel.

“It belongs to me, and to no one else,” was the fierce reply as a stunning spell whipped past me.

“Then why attempt to secretly keep the creature on the grounds? Why not approach the Headmaster?”

“You don’t understand,” was hissed at me as a more violent spell was aimed. Quickly I deflected it and retaliated for the first time in the evening. After which our suspect turned to run toward Hagrid’s garden and into what was perceived to be the security of an even darker enclosure.

As she reached the edge my spell made contact and instantly all movement stopped as the attacker took on a stone like rigidity.

“Albus,” I called into the air, “come to the edge as I have our real culprit over here.”

Albus emerged quickly to gaze into Cynthia Olanska’s eyes and sighed outwardly, “I hoped you were all right once you did not follow Georgette. Georgette claims Cynthia asked her to head toward Hagrid’s hut to detain anyone that should be present as a favor to her. I believe Cynthia made it sound as if I would be out here all alone, and Georgette chose to accept the offer in the hopes of putting me into a compromising position with which she could torment you. Let’s get her into my office, come Georgette!”

The latter followed haughtily, but seeing Cynthia on the ground decided to hold her tongue for at least the minute. Albus levitated Cynthia in front of our little group as we headed back into the castle. I was relieved the worst of the affair was over, but I will not deny that the identity upset me greatly. Though I anticipated Cynthia to be the culprit I needed a greater sense of understanding that I hoped she would provide. When we stepped into the warmth of the castle it began to snow.

Georgette returned to her rooms and Cynthia was lifted from her spell as we settled her into a chair beside of me and opposite Albus.

Albus did not question Cynthia, but merely waited for her to begin explaining why all this had happened. She looked to no one as she twisted her hands, but suddenly she became rather agitated and began to speak.

“I had to take it because it doesn’t belong to him.”

“To whom,” Albus asked.

“To Edward.”

“The young man that took over the small colony,” I inquired.

“Yes, father did not want him to have it so he helped me take it.”

“Who is your father?”

“He ran the colony before he died. He knew he was dying, as he had suffered for the past year with an internal illness not even muggle doctors could help him with. He happened to hear who would replace him, as he was to retire, and he tried to stop the appointment but it had already been made.”

“Kristoff was your father?” I admit to be incredulous of this connection.

“Yes, I was married for a short time. My married name is Olanska.”

I caught Albus’ eye before we continued with our interrogation, but his seemed much calmer that I imagined my confuse stare had seemed.

“Cynthia,” Albus continued, “why did neither you nor your father wish Edward to over see the Chimera.”

Cynthia was quiet, her hands twisting furiously in her lap, as she lowered her gaze once more. “Was he the young man you fell in love with that turned out to be horrible,” I implored feeling as if I was finally beginning to understand.

She nodded, but paused before giving much needed elaboration, “I was young when he seduced me with his charms. We were able to keep it a secret, which was astonishing considering he lived with us. However I became pregnant and when I told him I hoped he would marry me, my father demanded the same for I could no longer keep our relationship a secret. Edward refused and left me to raise the child on my own. Dad was upset and disappointed, but he did not shun me nor turn me from my home. He left the decision to me on my child, and after some deliberating I chose to give it up for adoption. Dad found a nice family in a village thirty miles from the colony. I married a year later only to loose my husband to a work related accident; it was after that that I chose to leave home. I was hired here two years after leaving.”

Silence reigned over the office once the confession has finished pouring from Cynthia’s lips. I sympathized with a woman I called friend over the situation, but I was disappointed she could see no other way to handle the affair. I saw the same emotion in Albus’ eyes when ours met once again.

It was Cynthia that spoke first, “I could think of nothing else as the Chimera was never my father’s personal object, but nor could this story be told to the officials that made the decision. My father refused to inform them, and I followed his request to remain silent on the topic. When I could not find it within the forest I did not immediately panic as I knew the animal would roam, as I put a charm on part of the forest that gave the creature some space to move within. However as time passed I became almost distraught, so I acted tonight. I was hasty and should have waited a few more nights.”

Cynthia paused again but raised her eyes to bore into mine, hers full with unshed tears, “My father wanted me to have her, there won’t be any more and he wanted me to take care of the last one. Anyone but Edward, he was never a good student when he lived with us. I needed to have her so as not to fail my father again.”

Her desperation was clear and I know that a ministry official would have sneered, the Headmaster would have sighed, but I could do neither. Silently I stood and embraced Cynthia as she cried over the hardships of her life in Albus’ office.

When the Headmaster arrived Albus extracted the memory above and placed it in his pensive for viewing as a means by which the Headmaster could be alerted to all that had been revealed. Upon returning from Albus’ memory the Headmaster remained silent for a time before he confessed to being unaware of how to precede, a feeling all of us shared.

I argued for lenient but just treatment of Cynthia, though she was in the wrong to act as she did I was unable to feel no sympathy for her. The Headmaster demanded some time to speak to Cynthia alone and Albus and I were forced to retire for a time to my chambers.

Instantly upon entering I moved toward my transfigured piano wanting to lose myself in the music, but Albus only allowed me to play a few songs before he gently pulled me from my seat and into his arms on my settee.

“What do you think should happen,” I asked him quietly while moving to sit where I could see my lover’s face.

“It is a difficult situation, indeed. If Cynthia knows how to care for the creature then it would be ideal to assign its guardianship to her, but it would be wrong to rob a young man of his lively hood unless a better situation could be found for him. However Cynthia will need to suffer some for her mistakes, but I believe in the power of second chances.”

“Do you think another prospect could be found for the young man, or at worst another job may be found for Cynthia?”

“I cannot honestly say, Minerva. We would have to make the proper inquiries, but now of course we must inform Edward to the Chimera’s whereabouts.”

“I am not concerned over his individual reaction. I do wish something could be found for him considering this Chimera is the last to exist, and the job must only be a temporary arrangement for him.”

“I’m afraid we will have to wait for Armando to make a decision,” and wait we did. Though I longed for a night of long, restful sleep I would not allow my eyes to close. I was rewarded an hour after our dismissal when the Headmaster required us once more.

Again I was awake to welcome the sun as it rose for it had taken the remainder of the night to discuss possible outcomes. It was decided that unless pressured the incident would not be reported to the governors, who would immediately demand Cynthia’s resignation. Armando was to request the apprentice’s and one of his superior’s presences at Hogwarts later in the week in order to see what could be done. During this time Cynthia had agree to take a leave of absence that would be attributed to health.

Albus and I separated to prepare for the start of a new week, but I managed to dress quickly so I could spend a few moments with Cynthia before my first class. Operating solely on the pepper-up potion and the advantages of youth I knocked softly on her chamber doors.

I found her silently staring into the fire before her, “the Headmaster seems determined to find the best possible solution so it could be worse;” I voiced.

“Yes, but I’ve resolved to leave Hogwarts.”

I nodded knowing it was probably for the best and the potential that it would be demanded was extreme. “Have you had time to think where you will go?”

“I thought perhaps London, but I’m not sure what I would do when I got there.”

“Do you have any funds saved that would allow you to travel for a time, go to the continent, or perhaps pursue a higher degree? You could try and teach at University,” I offered in an attempt to help.

“Perhaps, but my mind isn’t functioning right now. Of course I’m not sure it has been for much of this year.”

Seeing it was best that she be left alone I squeezed her shoulder softly before retreating. If it had been many other people I knew I would have feared to leave them alone should desperation gain complete control, but I felt that Cynthia’s life had presented her with enough trials to assume that her lot was to struggle through.

The rest of the week passed quietly while I attempted to regain my strength and composure, which had begun to fail me at the most inopportune times. On the night that Edward and his boss agreed to meet with the Headmaster Albus tried to preoccupy my mind by planning a romantic dinner in his chambers, but instead of appreciating the gesture I grew angry and lost my temper. Immediately I regretted my emotional outburst.

“Forgive me, I’m sorry Albus. This is sweet, but I’m just-I-,” and here I could no longer ward off tears I had tried not to cry all week. The man before me did not scowl or leave me, but instead he gathered me in arms and stroked my hair until I had time to calm.

“I don’t deserve you,” I mumbled into his wiry beard, a feeling I had become accustomed too.

“Occasionally I can handle tears, but such nonsense I cannot. It is obvious that I am a mere mortal who has been given the chance to worship at a goddess’ feet, and I simply refuse to relinquish the right.”

“I hate that it seems you are always saving me, I don’t want to be the princess in distress.”

“Distress is something we all encounter, Minerva, and allowing someone who loves you to aid however he can is being human.”

“But you said yourself I’m a goddess,” I smiled while drying my eyes.

“Do you wish to be one?”

“No, not particularly,” readying myself for a learning lesson my dear Professor I was sure was about to impart.

“I know you want to be strong, and I hope at sometime you will realize you are. However humanity is as base as it is glorious: you are vulnerable but that is not the worst of life. Do you think otherwise?”

“I rank that fact fairly high with the worst.”

“Then you are nearsighted. You cannot hope to feel all the positive aspects of being human, and yet none of the negative. Love can be the sweetest feeling, for example the surge I feel when your slender hand comes in contact with any part of my body, but what else comes with it? Jealousy, extreme protectionism, even mistrust. Your vulnerabilities may arise from such negative aspects of our characters that exist, but allowing me to see them is the greatest treasure I can be shown. Whether it is holding you as you cry, or holding you in my arms as I make love to you. Your vulnerabilities do not scare me.”

“Do yours scare you?”

“They can, but I hope that they do not scare you. I don’t wish to argue that your vulnerabilities should never scare you, but do not presume that because you perceive them to be awful that others feel the same.”

“I do not want many people to see my weaknesses,” I said calmly as I still sat in Albus’ lap.

“I’m not many people…to quote yourself I believe.”

“No you aren’t, but I hope this year will not be indicative of all those to come.”

“I’m too optimistic to think that is the case, but should things only worsen your weary head will be welcome on my shoulder, as you have saved me and will save me far more than you perceive.”

I did not wish to continue on this refrain so I took advantage of my position so close to Albus in order to move things to a more comfortable location. The night was long and perhaps frustrating at times, but simultaneously it was rewarding: emotionally and physically.

In regards to the Chimera case the Headmaster was able to procure another job for Edward that suited the apprentice much better, as he was not particularly fond of the Chimera. Another individual was found and within a week the Chimera was safely transported back to where it belonged, much to Hagrid’s sadness. Cynthia left Hogwarts before the term expired and took my advice regarding traveling. I convinced her to write to me often, and her first letter spoke of a sense of peace she had not had in many years and for this I was grateful.


*There are 2/3 chapters left of this story, for I believe there are a few more plot points to address and Minerva and Albus’ relationship needs a bit more before I can leave them alone. Thank you for reading.

[morgan72uk]

It's such a lovely chapter - I think you handled the revelation perfectly and the conversation about vulnerabilities was just so in character.

[EloquentPhoenix]

Beautiful chapter, and only 2/3 left, that's a little sad but more Minerva and Albus realtionship stuff is good A nice and fitting end to the Chimera plotline, and I'm really glad Cynthia is happy now.

[Isabelle]

This was lovely. I am glad Cynthia took Minerva's advice. It looked as though her hair was beginning to curl from being strung out. I am sad that there will be only a few chapters left, but all good things must come to an end, I suppose, even if I don't want them to.

Oh, one little grammar issue. When you say Minerva 'wanted to loose her herself in her music' it should be LOSE with one 'o.' Two 'o's implies that something ie a lightbulb has come loose and now you you need to tighten it. I hope that makes sense. I only saw it twice, but I thought I'd let you know. I'm really bad, I practically shred everything I read.

This chapter was still awesome!!

Liz

[Trulyamused]

Yay. Excellent part. Now, our duo can concentrate on themselves.

Great story. Looking forward to more.

Truly

[ismaco]

sensiblyquirky said:

*There are 2/3 chapters left of this story.

Yay!
You keep writing... we'll keep reading!
Thanks for another lovely chapter...
Isabel

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter 18:

A/N: I’m sorry this has taken so long to update, and I hope people are still interested in this story. School has been beyond hectic, but here is the second to last chapter!


The middle of March found me not grading papers at Hogwarts but standing within the Ministry of Magic’s headquarters for an orientation interview process on a weekend hosted by my contact at the Liaisons Department. Various officials and their subordinates hurried by as our small group of four were lead into a conference room. Our group was split along gender lines, but I was the youngest by a considerable number of years.

“Minerva!”

Turning I was greeted by Edward, my contact from the war.

“I hope young Clarke didn’t bore you with the tour, we’ll need you awake for the next part,” here he paused to drop his voice, “I feel confident in telling you that the position is yours if you want it.”

“Well I’m here to learn more about the job, Edward, but currently I’m teaching at Hogwarts and I’ve agreed to remain through till the end of this year’s term.”

Edward’s handsome features drooped at first, but quickly a light shone from his eyes. “That’s right, that’s right. Do you know Professor Dumbledore?”

The mentioning of my lover’s name made me smile lightly, but I tried to keep the mirth out of my voice. Name dropping was not a custom I indulged in, and Albus’ was one I guarded.

“Yes, he teaches at the school.”

“Minerva I’m sure I don’t need to tell you how important a contact that is to have. This will clinch the job for you if you could get him to a function held here at the ministry.”

“Edward,” I interrupted sharply, my voice low and dangerous, “I have not accepted this job and if you want to convince me to join your staff you will not mention Professor Dumbledore again. I will not use the Professor or sell him off to the ministry. Now I believe you have a meeting to conduct, your three other candidates are waiting.”

I did not wait for any response but turned quickly, my robes swishing Edward as I passed. Settling down my temper slowly abated as Edward discussed the finer elements of the available position. Hours later I emerged from the Ministry after participating in liaison simulations quite tired, but instead of going back to my hotel I transfigured my robes into a suitable muggle dress and apparated further inside of London.

It had been quite some time since I had last been in London, and the city did not fail to amaze me. Though some muggle traditions appeared rather mundane to me the bustling city, rich in its history, was charming. I weaved through the crowds admiring the architecture, spent a little of my time in a delightful art gallery, and then popped in one or two stores for therapeutic purposes.

Once the day was waning and the sun began to set behind the city’s buildings I returned to Diagon Alley and my hotel in order to freshen up before leaving for dinner at the Flammel’s.

I did not get very far in the direction of my hotel before I saw Siri’s beau coming out of a shop. Calling him he kindly waited until I could reach him, noticing as I drew near that the shop had been one for jewelry.

“Siri mentioned you would be away this weekend, Tom greeted.”

“Yes, but she didn’t mention you would be.”

He looked down nervously, “I bought an engagement ring.”

I clasped his arm in shock and happiness, “You mean you’ll be taking my friend away?”

He laughed, “Well she hasn’t said yes yet, but I sure hope to.”

“She’ll say yes, she will. Now I have to make a dinner engagement, and you need to hurry to our, well your Siri. Good luck!” Tom thanked me quietly, I could tell he was preoccupied with his proposal plans, and turned away in direction of the nearest apparition spot.

I readied quickly all the time thinking about the story Siri would have to tell me on Monday. Wondering briefly if I would experience such joy I left for the Flammel’s home.

When I received my invitation for the orientation weekend I owled Pernelle hoping to meet she and her husband for dinner out, but they insisted on hosting me. As Albus’ closest friends I was more than eager to get to know them on a personal level so I was happy to accept their request.

“Look Pernelle the Ministry actually let her out,” Nicholas teased letting me into their home.

“That is surprising,” Pernelle commented coming out of the kitchen, “now you sit and relax dear. We know your powers do not extent into the kitchen.”

“Thinking of a ministry position are you, what does Albus think of that,” Nicholas asked while sitting opposite of me in a comfortable chintz chair similar to Albus’ favorite.

“We have not discussed it yet, deciding to do so after I found more information this weekend.”

I noticed Pernelle, who had returned, eyed her husband before returning to the kitchen. Nicholas noticed I had seen the exchange and replied to my quizzical look with no verbal prompting, “I’ve known Albus a long time, Minerva, and I know you mean a lot to him. But I also know Albus is typically closed mouth about these things, so do talk with him. Don’t let him be so excruciatingly selfless.”

“There is no need to worry Nicholas we both knew my teaching position could be a temporary arrangement.”

“I shouldn’t pry, but I’m happy to see Albus has found a woman to love.”

“It doesn’t hurt your partial to her either,” Pernelle’s voice crooned from the dinning room as she beckoned us forward.

“No, I guess it doesn’t.”

“Don’t let Nicholas get to you, dear, we just want Albus to be happy and we think that means a relationship with you. We hope he doesn’t mess it up.”

I knew these two people were merely looking out for Albus so I tried not to sound as pressured as I was beginning to feel, “I have no plans to run away and discard him, besides I may not take the job.”

“True and your right if you do take it you can still meet on weekends even if you are in France. Many headmasters have had wives and mistresses for that matter that lived outside of the school.”

“Young people do have more options these days,” Nicholas chimed in as we sat around the table passing the various dishes between us as our stomachs anticipated the meal.

Pernelle’s comment had the desired effect for it did not stray far from my thoughts for the rest of the evening. As a single woman living amongst disagreeable relatives in a strained atmosphere the Liaisons job sounded perfect. It afforded me a means of true distance; it would ensure challenges and much beloved traveling. I had been hopeful for the change it could give me. Since then my life had changed, while walking toward my hotel room I moved as a teacher, as a lover.

Pausing before my suite my hand came to rest on the door, reminding me of an event not in the distant past. A week previously I stood in a familiar position at Hogwarts only to open my door to soft lighting and a handsome man waiting for me. Albus had planned a romantic evening as a thank you to a passionate evening I had orchestrated earlier in the week. Though Hogwarts kept us busy we made time to dine out alone or with Siri and Tom or create our own adventures inside the castle walls.

Coming back to my present surroundings I opened the door disappointed to find the room as I left it, but determined to share the large bed and luxurious bathtub with my Professor before sunrise.

“Albus,” I called out into his sitting room using the fireplace in my suite.

“So she finally calls! I had been worried you were wooed by a Londoner and had forgotten about us little people at Hogwarts,” Albus teased kneeling in front of the fireplace in his garish dressing gown.

“I’m calling to invite you to the Kitten Club, a one night only event where you will be afforded the chance to spend a passion filled evening with the woman of your dreams.”

“Ava Gardner is staying at your hotel?”

“What would an American movie star want with an eccentric old fool such as you?”

“I’ll have you know many women fawn over me.”

“Drool and trap would be better suited words, now are you coming or not? I’ll be your Ava Gardner tonight,” I added in a husky tone that affected my lover ever so much.

“On second thought I’d prefer one Minerva McGonagall, if you please. I’m not on duty tonight so give me a few minutes to send word to Armando and then I’ll be right over.”

A few moments passed until Albus arrived, this gave me time to change into my own soft gown. He tumbled out still in his dressing gown, and embraced me warmly.

“So are you leaving me for the Ministry?”

I admit this is not how I envisioned our rendezvous beginning, but Pernelle’s comments had resonated with me.

“I don’t know. I still have tomorrow. What do you want?”

“Minerva, I have a good eighty years on you. I’ve had time to pursue multiple careers, and I don’t want to rob you of that chance. If this is something you want to do then do it, but know I will miss you if you leave. I want you to stay, I admit, I want to run Hogwarts with you. However if you decide to leave for France, I will accept it even on those lonely nights.”

“Maybe we can convince Ava to keep you company.”

“Why didn’t you tell me you were willing to share? We could have had fun with that,” in mock shock I reminded Professor Dumbledore he was conversing with innocent ears. Needless to say the conversation only down graded from there and is unworthy of being mentioned here.

Albus left only moments before I departed for the Ministry, and we agreed to meet around the lake at Hogwarts when I returned to truly discuss our situation.

*One chapter left

[Nerweniel]

Ava Gardner *sniggers* ;D. But great job, dear, really like this fic and hope to see the next chapter soon... although it'll be the last one *snif* .

Love,

Lies

[Trulyamused]

Great addition.

Hmmm . . . random thought--

Ava was married to Frank Sinatra in 1956, Albus could have been the cause of their divorce in 1957.

Nope, no way no how. He's Mins. (chuckle)

I will be sorry for this to end.

Truly

[Isabelle]

So once again, I should be doing my history homework. I have completed three chapters before 1.30 this afternoon, so I am proud of myself.

Anyway this was a lovely chapter. As much as I think Minerva doesn't want to leave Albus for the Liasions job, it's obvious to me that she does, and I think Albus is right. She should do it if she wants. It is her life and she should experience as much as she can. I am sad the next chapter is the last though.

I have some little nitpicks for you, mostly just small little grammar issues, so not a huge deal, but I thought in case you want to fix them....

1. "I did not wait for any response but turned quickly, my robes switching Edward as I passed." I think you might have meant *swishing* there. It sounds a bit awkward saying your robes switched someone as you walked by.

2. "Hours later I emerged from the Ministry after participating in liaison simulations tired however instead of going back to my hotel I transfigured my robes into a suitable muggle dress and apparated further inside of London." The flow of this is also a little awkward. I think you might have meant to put a period or a comma in between 'tired' and 'however.' That would make things flow a little better.

3. "Though Hogwarts kept us busy we mad time to dine out alone or with Siri and Tom or create our own adventures inside the castle walls." Again, nothing major, just forgot the 'e' on the end of mad. I read it a few times to make sure I knew what you saying. It threw me off for a little bit.

That's all I have for now. This really was a great update. I hope with the last one you'll go out with a bang!

Liz

[Orion's Guard]

I missed a couple of chapters, and I had to go read a few before that to actually remember what was going on (I blame senioritis, am I allowed to do that?)

This is ending fantastically, and even if Minerva does go off, which would certainly not be the worst thing in the world, she can always come back (and obviously she does eventually). Thanks for everything!

[Alesia]

I just read the last chapter today and I really like the banter between them about Ava Gardner. I can see Albus liking Ms Ava. I am still marveling at the way you construct the diction for this story. This style is beyond my abilities but you have maintained it through out and I applaud you.

[ismaco]

Only one chapter *sigh*. I'll miss this one!

This chapter is great! Mrs. Flammel is SO intelligent! And the Ava Gardner thing... LOL

I'm actually no one to tell you this (as you can see, my English grammar sucks) but Christy: your story is really, REALLY awesome! It's so well written and the plot is fantastic! Thank you!!

Love,
Isabel

[Newbie]

I just spent the morning reading this one. The site is new to me, as is the pairing, but I really like how you have them deveolping such a long time ago. It really sets up the present for them.

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter 19:

A/N 1: Thank you to Isabelle for catching my mistakes. I have made the corrections.

A/N 2: To Newbie: I hope my story has not turned you away from our ship, and I encourage you to read other stories on this board as we have some great authors.

A/N 3: As a future teacher I want to state that I do not believe just anyone can walk off the street and teach, as it might appear I’ve had Minerva do. However with “He will not be single-handed” I think Minerva’s loyalty is to Dumbledore before it is to Hogwarts. Through this story I have attempted to show that.

A/N 4: I was watching the third movie when this idea came to me. It was the scene where they return to Hogwarts in the carriages, and I knew I wanted to write a story where Minerva came to Hogwarts in a carriage on a stormy night. The story just went from there. I’ve enjoyed writing this one, and I want to thank all my readers and/or reviewers!!! Now on with the last chapter…


Since my first stroll around the lake, which afforded me my first glance at Albus, the trail around the lake had become one of my favorite Hogwarts spots. Arriving earlier than the time Albus and I settled upon gave me the opportunity to think back on the last couple of hours. A bright day with only minimal winds I sat beneath the branches of a welcoming tree.

Edward had offered me the job earlier in the day. The position required my removal to France, in July, to head the English branch in Paris. I would be the face of the embassy, in contact with the French muggle and magical leaders. When I inquired about available time to return to Scotland Edward replied,

“This is the big leagues, Minerva, you’ll be lucky if you aren’t busy on Christmas. You accept this job and you won’t see Scotland much. Even an occasional vacation will need to be spent in other countries on business, but you’re a young witch. This position could put you in line to run for Minister of Magic in the future.” Edward smiled smugly, resting back in his chair as if challenging me to turn the job down; I resist few challenges.

“Minerva!”

Pulled from my reverie I turned toward Siri as she approached with a wide smile on her face.

“Albus told me to tell you he’ll come when we’ve done discussing female things. I simply couldn’t wait to fill you in, do you mind?”

“Of course not, Albus can wait.” I had spotted Siri’s new ring, a beautiful diamond flanked by two smaller ones, glittering on her hand, but I did not want to rob her of the chance to tell me herself.

“Well Tom came over last night. We had agreed to have dinner in, but he asked me if I wouldn’t mind going out. Oh Minerva it was wonderful. He needed to stop by the shop for a moment, it was fairly dark but he asked me if I would retrieve a book for him in the aisle where we met. The only thing on the whole shelf was this,” grinning Siri held out her hand and I hugged her tightly.

“I’m so happy for you Siri, and I love Tom. You know though that if he hurts you Albus and I will hunt him down?”

“He won’t, but Minerva I do hate to leave Hogwarts.”

“Don’t. You’ll be missed, but you love that little town and luckily I have the cottage close by. Help Tom with the store and get to work on some delightful terrors to fill these halls,” I teased.

Contrary to when I first met Siri she was smiling broadly and her eyes had a perpetual shimmer about them, “Well Tom wants children, a lot of children.”

“What about you?”

“Oh I want them, but I may have to tell him to stay on his side of the bed after a few.”

“Just make sure you stay on yours then.”

We laughed heartily before Siri informed me that she had a second piece of information to depart.

“Do you remember making comments about Minky’s changed appearance?”

“Yes, but I’ve always forgotten to ask or been too busy. She isn’t ill is she,” I started inwardly berating my negligent behavior.

“Oh no,” Siri laughed, “Well then again perhaps if you consider love to be an illness.”

Confusion no doubt blanketed my face while I croaked out, “love?”

“It seems your Minky has fallen in love with the head elf, Gabinius (Gaby for short), but she was afraid to tell you. He is smitten too and wants to ask your permission to marry her.”

I sat stunned for several minutes before requesting Gaby’s presence by the lake for proper questioning.

“Yes, Miss, how may Gaby serve you?”

While I interrogated Gaby Siri stood off with Minky in toe awaiting my decision, apparently she refused to stay inside unless I ordered her to. Deciding I would wish to address my elf as well I saw no reason to forbid her appearance.

“Now Gaby let me get straight to the point, do you love Minky?”

“Oh yes, Miss, very Miss. Gaby wants to marry her, if Miss says that’s o.k.”

“And if I do not?”

His ears drooped, “Gaby and Minky would be very unhappy, but Gaby would still love her.”

“Has Minky informed you that I could move to France?”

“Yes, Miss, but we still wants to marry.”

“Send Minky to me and you stand with Siri.”

I tried not to conceal my mirth as the elf marched to his beloved so seriously, and she in turn rushed to my side with a solemn expression.

“Mink’s sorry Miss, Minky should have told,-”

I interrupted in order to lessen the degree of stress my dear elf was enforcing upon her, “Sit beside of me Minky. Now don’t get upset. I do hope you will tell me such things in the future because I care about you, but right now I wish to know only one thing. Do you love Gaby?”

Minky’s large eyes widened and glowed, “Yes, Miss. Minky didn’t at first, Gaby was bossy, but now Gaby listens to Minky. Gaby is nice and Minky loves him.”

I called for Gaby and gave my hearty blessing promising to arrange a small ceremony the following week should Headmaster Dippet approve.

“My once composed elf is now giddy in love,” I murmured after Siri departed for the castle and back to her post in the library. Once again left on my own to wait for Albus my mind lingered on the events of the morning.

After I left Edward’s office I set to leave the Ministry all together and retreat to my hotel for a relaxed hour before returning to Hogwarts. However as I was leaving the building my sister in law literally ran into me, barking that I should get out of her way until she saw who it was.

“Oh, Minerva, I did not know you were in town. The brats too much for you?”

“Not at all Alyssa, I love teaching, and the students can be rather inventive. I imagine you can remember some stories from your own time at the school. What brings you to London,” I attempted to be polite hoping not to cause a scene.

“Well, I…I needed to see the doctor.” I had never seen my sister in law as flustered, and though I enjoyed the sight quite a bit I did not wish her or my brother harm.

“I hope you are well?”

“I suppose. Listen Minerva don’t tell Adonis, I’m not sure what to think just yet.”

“We don’t speak Alyssa; I assure you any secrets are safe with me.”

She laughed airily as if trying to lighten what she considered to be a serious conversation, “Yes and he wouldn’t believe you anyway. I can’t believe I’m confiding in you, but desperate times I suppose. I’m pregnant.”

That was a shock for I knew Alyssa went to great pains to avoid the chance that a baby might make its way into her life. “Are you going to keep it?”

“I don’t know. I might discuss it with Adonis, or I might perform the necessary spells without his knowing. We never wanted children, and I can’t remember a time I forgot the contraception spells. Most of my girlfriends have children and they enjoyed the attention they got while pregnant, but they say the children get all the attention after that. Well if you get an announcement I guess you’ll know if you are to be an aunt.”

Strong arms slide around my waist and soft lips kissed my temple, startling me out of my musings.

“Do you always enjoy sneaking up on women Professor Dumbledore?” Albus grinned much like a few of my students have been known to do before he kissed me again, “just you.”

“I bet you say that to all the girls.” I would have inclined fully in his embrace, but we were not concealed from any prying eyes. Albus suggested a walk.

“I was offered the job this morning,” I plunged.

“They would have been foolish to offer it to anyone else. You almost had it in January if memory serves me correctly.”

“Yes, but it is more evolved than I thought. The position is the head of the branch, and very time demanding.”

Albus raised his eyebrows and directed his gaze toward the grown when I turned toward him. After some time elapsed in silence Albus finally spoke.

“Vacation time?”

“Spent working it appears, even Christmas.”

A clearing in the trail on the opposite side of the lake afforded a magnificent view of the castle. Albus paused to gaze upon the castle. I knew the way in which he folded his arms across his chest was an outward sign of the turmoil within. However I waited for him to speak, knowing he was gathering his thoughts and would do so when ready to express them.

“Minerva, look at Hogwarts. That castle brimming with life is my home. Before I stumbled onto you I accepted the fact that it would be my mistress too. Now I want you running it and teaching all these children with me. I want to come home to your arms, or watch you play the piano until I have to drag you away, but this offer is,-”

“Not what I want.”

He turned sharply, his eyes never leaving mine. “Albus I wanted this job when I was at home between jobs and lost as to what direction my life would take. Fate, my father, Merlin knows who chose the direction for me when I was lead to this castle. Now I have a job that I have grown to love, and continue to love every day. The students and the challenge of teaching keep me on my toes, and I hope one day to teach transfiguration when you become Headmaster.

Further I do not enjoy most of the trappings associated with the liaison position, but what I do enjoy is being with you. I want to live here with you, work beside of you. I love you Albus and I’m falling in love with Hogwarts.”

Albus didn’t question my statement as he stepped closer to caress my lips with his own. Cupping my face as brilliant blue eyes brimming with love and desire pierced mine he whispered, “If I asked you to marry me tomorrow, would you?”

“Yes.”

There in the clearing of the forest against a background of trees bending to accommodate the wind, whistling a melodic tune, with Hogwarts, brilliant and alive, looming ahead I succumbed.

~The End