Ginny Weasley was not having the happiest early days of the summer holiday.
For starters, her mind refused to stop thinking about Harry Potter. In recent years, she had welcomed thoughts about him. Now she just wanted to forget about him.
She would deny to her very last breath that she was heartbroken over him. She would also deny that she was extremely jealous of Hermione Granger, and three other girls. One of those girls was a Slytherin! How could Harry even put up with her? Susan Bones – well – Ginny could see how Harry might come to love her. She was attractive and had the best physical attributes of her year, something which Ginny could only hope for. Then there was the third girl. Luna had been her best friend from the age of five. Why was Luna Lovegood so lucky to have what she could not? What fates had decided Luna Lovegood could be betrothed to marry Harry Potter, and not her, Ginny Weasley?
She had received owl post from Luna early in the morning; the owl had delivered the newest edition of the Quibbler as well as a personal letter from Luna. In the letter, Luna briefly mentioned her betrothal to Harry. Technically, Luna and Harry weren't betrothed yet, but after the official meeting between Harry and Luna's father, it would become official. Luna would technically be Harry's long-term fiancee, since a wedding was likely in the distant future. Luna didn't even consider herself Harry's girlfriend – that was Hermione's role. But she believed things might change if Harry wanted more than one girlfriend in the future.
Ginny had resisted very hard to rip up the letter in jealousy. She had yet to send a reply letter. At the moment she didn't feel like sending one.
Ginny was very confused about Harry and Hermione's relationship. How did their relationship evolve so quickly – as if overnight – from best friends to boyfriend and girlfriend? How had Ginny not noticed? She had been studying Hermione's behavior around Harry to see if she could detect any hint of romantic feelings for him. Sure, she suspected Hermione did fancy Harry, but Ginny had not detected any hint that Hermione would do anything about it. And Harry... well, he was so absolutely shy that Ginny didn't worry about any threats of him asking a girl on a date for a while. How had things changed so quickly? Who had asked out whom? How had it begun?
Ginny could also tell that it was likely going to evolve into a serious relationship. The couple had dissolved their friendship with her brother, Ron, simply because he was jealous that Harry was Hermione's boyfriend. She wouldn't even begin to question how Ron hadn't noticed the attraction between the couple. She knew he was oblivious to such things. All Ginny knew was that the Golden Trio's relationship was over... and likely on a permanent basis. She didn't need Hermione's own words to prove that. She could still hear in her head exactly what Hermione had said when her relationship with Harry had gone public.
"Ron is no longer our friend because he's too stupid to get over his petty jealousy that we're a couple. I hope others don't make the same mistake."
Ginny wasn't stupid. She knew that Hermione was speaking directly to her. The message was clear. She would either be their friend – only as a friend to Harry – or she would lose their friendship. It was an obvious defensive maneuver. Hermione was marking her claim. Ginny could also hear the unsaid words: Hermione was threatened by her.
Ginny sighed, as she laid on her bed and stared at the ceiling. Not that she would ever give the satisfaction to Hermione, but she was just about ready to give up on Harry Potter. Even if she could become Harry's girlfriend, Harry would be contractually obligated to marry three other girls. Hermione might believe she could live with being one of four wives, but Ginny could not. Spreading his love around to three other girls plus her, instead of focusing it all on her would be too much to bear.
"I'm going to be thirteen in two months," Ginny said to nothing but her own bedroom, "I believe that is perfect time for me to try my hand at dating. I need thing to take my mind off of Harry, and a nice date in Hogsmeade with somebody would be an excellent start."
Satisfied that she had quelled her thoughts of Harry Potter, her mind went elsewhere. Even ignoring the thoughts of Harry, her summer still hadn't started off in the best way possible. Ron's unexplained illness was annoying now that she was in a closer proximity to him. At Hogwarts, she could appreciate the humor like her twin brothers did, simply because she didn't have to visit him at the Hospital Wing, therefore, he wasn't in proximity to her.
For the first weekend of the summer, Ron had spent every minute of the day in the sitting room. Ron's inability to say very many words wasn't so bad. Whenever he began choking due to his tongue sticking to the roof of his mouth, that was a little discouraging at first, especially since her mother would rush to Ron's aide whenever it happened. But the random bouts of flatulence, and the following odor had been unbearable! She would have to hold her breath every time she had walked through the sitting room, and sometime the odor had even wafted up the stairs before her mother had been able to place the air-freshening Charms.
Finally on Monday, her father had had enough. He had personally assisted moving Ron up to his attic bedroom, where Ron had now been isolated over the past three days. Ginny was well aware that Ron would likely be easily healed by professional Healers at St. Mungo's. But her mother had simply refused to take him to the hospital, stating that she could figure out how to cure her son – something she had yet to do in nearly two weeks. Molly Weasley was by far the most stubborn member of the family.
Thankfully the sitting room was now open and odor-free. Now that she wouldn't have to be in his vicinity, she could find her brother's ailment amusing again. Of course, she couldn't show such amusement around her mother, lest she be lectured that she should be nicer to her sick brother; after all, her mother said, what if she was in Ron's shoes? Fred and George – as usual – didn't mind their mother's lectures or reproachful glares. They had taken every opportunity to poke fun at their little brother. Fred and George had even confided in Ginny that they were currently inventing a non-magical Bubble-Head Charm. Ginny pictured fishbowls whenever she thought about it.
A sudden, sharp pecking noise broke Ginny out of her reverie and she looked over at her window, and found an unfamiliar owl sitting on the windowsill. She quickly stood up and walked over to the window and opened it. The owl flew into the room, hovered over Ginny's desk and dropped an envelope onto it, then flew back out the window. Apparently the owl needed no reply, nor expected one from her.
Ginny picked up the envelope and studied it. Her eyes widened as she recognized the Gringotts seal on the back. On the front, the writing was indeed addressed to her. For a brief moment, she thought it strange that an owl was bringing post directly to her. Usually all post – even when it was directed to her or one of her siblings – came straight into the kitchen so it could be 'checked for any possibly negative reactions' according to her mother. But this, this was taken directly to her – for her eyes only, or at least first!
She walked back over to her bed, sat down and opened the envelope. It immediately transformed into a letter. She began to read it:
Miss Ginevra Molly Weasley,
Greetings. My name is Ragnok the Sixth, one of the Vault Keepers of Gringotts, London Branch. I'm sure you remember meeting me at Hogwarts recently when we traveled into the Chamber of Secrets.
Earlier this morning, I took part in a meeting which involved Lord Harry James Potter. Amongst other things, the Basilisk was discussed, including the projected sales and total earnings Lord Potter had amassed. The total projected earnings, after taxes kept by Gringotts Bank was eighteen million Galleons (G18,000,000). Lord Potter immediately suggested splitting up the profits among various outlets, including the victims of the heinous events which took place in the 92-93 School Year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Your name was brought up, Miss Weasley.
Lord Potter has graciously donated two million Galleons (G2,000,000) to you for your troubles during your first year at Hogwarts. Lord Potter has also requested that the entire donation is exclusively in your name. While he has suggested this, he also understands if you wish to give a portion to your family.
(Note: Every victim of the event received equal amount of Galleons, to be fair.)
A Vault in your name will be opened as soon as possible where your new fortune will be placed. To finalize the procedure, you're presence is required at Gringotts at a time and date you see fit – preferably sooner rather than later - where you will meet with me to sign various paperwork and receive your Vault Key. Because you are under the age of seventeen, you are required to have a parent or guardian with you during our meeting. However, as requested by Lord Potter, you will make all decisions during the meeting on your own regarding your new fortune.
Please have your parent or guardian send a reply with suggested date and time, as well as their signature, as soon as possible.
I look forward to doing business with you.
May your new-found fortune flourish,
Keeper Ragnok The Sixth
Gringotts, London Branch
Ginny felt faint as she finished the letter, and had to read it again to make sure she had completely understood it. She was not hallucinating. Harry had given her two million Galleons!
"Oh, Merlin, Harry," Ginny said, "That is way too much! I don't even know what to do with such a fortune!"
Her eyes found a certain line of the letter. Every single victim had received the same amount: Colin, Justin, Penelope. Even Hermione, Harry's girlfriend, had not received more than she did! Still her earlier statement was true. Two million Galleons was quite a bit of money. Even if she had given a small percentage of the fortune to her family, she would still have way more than enough for several lifetimes.
True, now that she thought about it, the money would last well into the future to where she would be using it on her own children and grandchildren, and even further down the line. Her own children would never have to own second-hand clothes, books, or other items like her siblings had to endure. The thought filled her with joy.
Ginny emitted a loud sigh and decided she needed to show the letter to her mother. She feared how her mother would react. Would her mother demand she return the money. She had a valid argument against it, but money was always a touchy subject in the Weasley household, and now Ginny had more than she knew what to do with. Simply because she was a 'victim'.
Ginny laughed mirthlessly at the thought. She may have been a victim, but she had been the one choosing the victims, setting the Basilisk on them. True, she had been possessed and didn't know what she had been doing. But Riddle had used her body –
"Stop!" Ginny growled. "Do not think about that, Ginevra Weasley!"
Ginny thought back to her most recent (and voluntary) visit into the Chamber of Secrets. She remembered a piece of conversation with Harry, where he had asked her about therapy. She knew mental therapy was a good idea. A Mind Healer would help her get over what had happened during her first year at Hogwarts. They might even be able to help her understand and quell her obsession with Harry Potter. And she could afford the best now thanks to Harry.
Yet another discussion she needed with her parents. Her mother had refused to send her to a Mind Healer, saying it wasn't necessary. What a load that was! First her own psychological needs, now her youngest brother's physical needs. Her mother had refused to get professional treatment for either. What was up with that?
Ginny shrugged the thought away and started her trek out of her bedroom and down into the kitchen. Some peculiar smells were wafting from the kitchen as she arrived. She couldn't pinpoint the odors, but it was definitely not food. She soon discovered that the odor was coming from a cauldron her mother was standing in front of.
"Hey, Mum?" Ginny said.
"Stay back, Ginny," her mother said, "Some of the ingredients send off dangerous fumes if you get too close. Thankfully I have a few charms set on myself to counter-act them."
"Um... okay," Ginny said, remaining where she was standing, "What are you brewing?"
"Something that may help Ronald with his illness," her mother said. "Hopefully he'll be back on his feet in no time. Don't need a professional Healer when we have good home-cooking expertise! Did you need something, dear?"
"A couple minutes ago I received owl post in my room," Ginny said, "A letter from Gringotts."
"They didn't bring it to the kitchen window?" her mother asked, then her eyes widened, as she looked at the letter in Ginny's hand, "You opened it?! Ginevra Weasley, what if the letter had a hex on it! I already have one ill child!"
Ginny did her best to refrain from rolling her eyes. Thankfully she succeeded. Her mother was quite wrong. Until she met with a professional Mind Healer, she would label herself as 'ill' too. What was a mail-hex compared to the horrors she had experienced?
"It is from Gringotts, Mum," Ginny said, "Do you honestly believe a Goblin would send a hex by mail!"
"You never know, Ginevra," Molly said, "There has been many a terrible Goblin. William should never have taken up a career with them."
"Well, this letter was exclusively for my eyes first," Ginny said.
Her mother frowned. "I still should have seen it first."
"Better late than never," Ginny said, smiling, as she handed her mother the letter.
"You spend too much time with Fred and George," her mother said. "You should spend more time with Percy."
Ginny held back a snort. Percy didn't want to be bothered. Between the aftermath of his girlfriend, Penelope Clearwater, breaking up with him, and waiting anxiously for his NEWT results, Percy was quite insufferable as of late.
Ginny watched as her mother read the letter. Her eyes and mouth widened every so often as she continued reading.
"Ginny, are you sure this wasn't a prank letter from your brothers?" her mother finally asked. "It is rather a funny coincidence that this letter came to you on the day the Quibbler was published with the article about that horrid Chamber. And I am still not pleased you went down into that Chamber! It was dangerous."
Far less dangerous than last time I was there, Ginny thought but dared not to say out loud.
"Mum, the letter was delivered by an owl I didn't recognize," Ginny said, "The envelope was definitely from Gringotts. And the author of the letter! That is Ragnok the Sixth. He is Goblin Royalty! I highly doubt it is a prank. You could write back to them and confirm the letter and information inside is real."
"That is true," her mother said, "But... my goodness, Ginny. If this is truly real. Well, that is a large fortune. You shouldn't accept it. We don't accept charity in our family. You know that."
"Mum, it isn't charity!" Ginny said, "Harry split the profits of the shares up to the victims. We each got equal profits."
Her mother frowned. "I did read that, yes."
"Mum," Ginny said, "That money would change my life – our lives. The lives of future generations of Weasleys. My children, grandchildren..."
Her mother sighed, then folded up the letter and placed it on the kitchen counter with the other post.
"We'll wait to discuss this any further until your father comes home, Ginevra," she said, "Then we'll see what should be done. My goodness. Two million Galleons?!"
Ginny held back a frustrated sigh. The letter said it was exclusively her decision. Harry wanted it that way. Why must it be discussed between her parents? Why did she have to have her parents write the reply letter, and be a part of her meeting at Gringotts? This was exclusively her money! So unfair!
Suddenly a large thumping sound was heard from somewhere floors above.
"Was that the twins or Ron?" Ginny asked.
"My goodness, Ronald!" her mother exclaimed, "I hope he didn't fall off the bed! Ginevra, do not get near that cauldron, but stay here to make sure the twins don't come near it! I will be back shortly."
Then she raced out of the kitchen and soon Ginny could hear her mother ascend the stairs. Ginny sighed in frustration. As she did, the odors from the Potion wafted through her nostrils. She could smell something similar to a plant in one of the Greenhouses at Hogwarts, as well as pond water. What exactly was her mother brewing?!
Suddenly, Ginny heard a sharp cracking sound followed shortly by another. At first she thought it came from upstairs, then realized it was coming from outside. She walked over to the door and peered out the window. Her father was home early! And he was not alone. She recognized that woman. That was Madam Amelia Bones, the aunt of Susan Bones, one of Harry's betrothed. What was she doing here? Why was her father home early?
By the time she snapped out of her thoughts, her father and Madam Bones were approaching the front door. They paused and spoke to each other. Her father seemed sad about something. Fear ran through Ginny's mind. Had something happened to Bill or Charlie?
Ginny then realized her mother didn't know her father had come home early.
"Mum!" she yelled, "Daddy's home! And he's not alone!"
(Some minutes earlier)
Amelia Bones stepped out of the lifts and onto level two of the Ministry of Magic. She had just spent the morning in her office researching connections between Albus Dumbledore and some of his known allies. If she couldn't take down Albus Dumbledore for another year, she could at least bring down some of those connected to him who had done criminal things in the past, or had allegations of taking part in criminal wrongdoings. Weakening Dumbledore through his connections may prevent him from performing some of his future schemes over the next year.
The first of these connections was Severus Snape. He was now in a cell in Azkaban, where he would be for the next five years. It was decided he would live out his sentence in Cell Block B, instead of Cell Block C where Bellatrix Lestrange and some of the more deranged and dangerous Death Eaters were locked up. Snape may be a convicted Death Eater, but he was nowhere near as dangerous as those in Cell Block C.
The fact that Sirius Black – an apparently innocent man – had spent more than a decade in Cell Block C, with people like his cousin Bellatrix Lestrange, this made Amelia mad every time she thought about it. She was counting down the days until Sirius would be a free man. She would do everything in her power to make sure that happened on Saturday.
Sirius had yet to turn himself into Ministry custody, as had been offered by Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge. Amelia could have informed Fudge of that from the beginning. Whatever little freedom Sirius had at the moment, he wasn't going to give it up to a few days in a Ministry holding cell. Sirius would show up to his trial, there was no doubt about it. And everything Amelia knew about Sirius told her that he would likely want to make his own entrance instead of being escorted by Aurors.
Amelia stepped into the tiny cubicle-like office known as the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Department, where she found Arthur Weasley and Percival Perkins sitting at a desk. Arthur smiled when he saw her.
"Good afternoon, Madam Bones," he said, "What can I do you for today? Did one of your own find illegally charmed Muggle objects while on a raid?"
"No, nothing like that," Amelia said, "My visit has nothing to do with your Department. This is more of a personal issue. Can I speak to you in private, Arthur?"
Arthur frowned and stood up. "Of course, Madam."
Amelia led Arthur away from the small office space and over to a more private area.
"Arthur, I am going to get right into it," she said, "I have reasons to believe that your wife, Molly, is in the middle of some illegal business. Also I am interested in speaking to your son, Ron and possibly your daughter, Ginny, as well. While I was interrogating Severus Snape, he mentioned all three having some possible criminal connections."
Arthur's brow furrowed. "What exactly are you accusing members of my family of?"
"I am not accusing your children of anything just yet," Amelia said. "But your wife... I have reason to believe she could be brewing illegal Potions and planning to use them in illegal manners. Specifically Amortentia."
Arthur sighed audibly. "I thought we were well past such things."
"Are you telling me she has done this before?" Amelia asked, narrowing her eyebrows.
"Several years ago I caught her in the middle of brewing Love Potions," Arthur said, "She admitted to me she was going to make them for a certain girl she had her eye on, in the hopes this girl would marry my eldest, William. What do you think she is doing this time?"
"I have reason to believe – from information given to me by Severus Snape," Amelia said, "That Molly is brewing Amortentia meant for Harry Potter and Hermione Granger. The potion would make Harry fall in love with Ginny, and Hermione fall in love with Ron. Recently Harry and Hermione became a couple, and it appears that there are people who do not like such a pairing, and would go as far as breaking them up by dosing them with Amortentia."
"Which I assume is why you wish to question Ron and Ginny," Arthur said.
"Yes," Amelia said. "Just to make sure whether or not they are connected to anything that they personally know of. Snape told me that he believes Molly may be doing this as a favor for someone else, not for her own means entirely. I also have reason to believe that Molly has stolen money from Harry Potter."
Arthur looked shocked. "What?"
"I spoke to the Vault Keeper for the Potter House at Gringotts," Amelia said. "There appears to be strange coincidences over the years when it comes to Harry's Trust Vault losing money, and Molly's personal Vault gaining funds at the same time. This happened long before Harry came into the wizarding world, so there was no way he could take the money. I need to speak to Molly about both of these things: the Amortentia and the Gringotts business. I have come to you first, because I wish for you to be at your house, as the Head of your family, when I confront your wife."
Arthur frowned and nodded. "I think that would be wise. I might be able to keep her calm during such a discussion. I'll tell Perkins I will take the remainder of the afternoon off."
Arthur returned to his station and a few moments later he came back. Amelia and Arthur then made their way to the lifts. Ten minutes later, after using the Apparation-Safe platform in the Ministry's Atrium, they were making their way down the driveway toward the towering residence known as the Burrow.
"Ronald is just recuperating after a bad leg break and a few ugly hexes a couple weeks ago," Arthur said, as he and Amelia walked down the driveway, "He has been sleeping in the sitting room for the past couple of weeks, and was only able to return to his own bedroom a couple days ago. His leg is mended, but the hexes are still bothering him. The Flatulence Hex is a bad one... making the sitting room and kitchen rather odorous at times. Thank goodness for Air-Freshening Charms. We haven't figured out how to get rid of the hexes yet. Molly's been quite worried about it."
"Have you spoken to anyone at St. Mungo's about it?" Amelia asked. "I'm sure they could fix him up easily."
"I am sure they could," Arthur agreed, "But Molly is stubborn, as per usual. She believes she can cure Ron. Madam Bones, I must ask. These charges... is it something that Molly could go to Azkaban for?"
"I don't know yet, Arthur," Amelia said. "If so, I imagine it will be for five years or less. Depends on how severe the charges are, and what Molly has done. Though I must admit... Cell Block A in Azkaban might be a better option than what the Goblins at Gringotts would do to her. The Potter House is one of major respect in Gringotts. It is old money, something Gringotts values. If Molly is guilty of stealing from them, they could do much worse to her than Azkaban would."
"Which is frightening to think about," Arthur said.
"I can agree with that," Amelia said.
As Amelia and Arthur approached the Burrow, a peculiar smell wafted in their direction from inside the Burrow.
"Ah, Molly must be getting an early start on dinner!" Arthur said, with a smile.
"Only if dinner smells like wet dog fur," Amelia said.
She knew exactly what that smell was. Arthur's eyes widened and his lips creased into a frown as he too must have realized they weren't smelling some good home-cooking.
"Oh, Molly," Arthur said, sadly, "You haven't!"
Arthur's youngest child and only daughter, Ginny, was waiting for them at the front door when they arrived.
"Daddy!" Ginny said, "What are you doing home early?"
"I – ahem – Ginny?" Arthur asked, "I think it would be best if you remained in your bedroom unless I call for you."
"Does this have anything to do with Bill and Charlie?" Ginny asked; she looked close to crying, obviously she thought Amelia's presence meant something had happened to her brothers.
"Oh, sweetheart, no," Arthur said, "I'm sure they're just fine. Go on, now. Where is your mother?"
"She was with Ron, I think," Ginny said, "I called for her to come down when I saw you coming."
"Alright," Arthur said, "Come inside, Amelia. Go on, Ginny."
Ginny frowned as she looked from her father to Amelia, then nodded and ran through the kitchen.
"Oh, dear," Arthur said, with a sigh, "Molly..."
Amelia found what Arthur had just encountered. A large cauldron was sitting on the kitchen table, and peculiar and familiar odors were emanating from it. Amelia recognized the brew in the Cauldron for what it was: Amortentia – Love Potion.
Amelia heard footsteps and turned to find Molly Weasley walk into the kitchen. Her eyes went from Arthur to Amelia, then to the cauldron, and her expression turned to one of concern and fright.
"Arthur, what is going on?" she asked.
"Molly," Amelia said, taking charge of the conversation, "Are you aware that Amortentia is a Class C illegal substance outside of educational purposes and Ministry of Magic usage?"
Molly shuddered visibly and sank down into one of the chairs at the table.
"Actively brewing such a potion for private use," Amelia continued, "could result in heavy fines. Intent of use for illegal means is far more serious. I am sure you are aware of the arrest and incarceration of Severus Snape. During his interrogation, he told an interesting story of some apparent deals being made through various individuals. He pointed a finger at you, Molly. He claimed that Albus Dumbledore had requested that he brew Amortentia for illegal purposes. Then he claimed that due to his incarceration, Albus Dumbledore would look for another source for such a potion. You, Molly."
"Severus Snape is a criminal as you well know, Amelia!" Molly said, "A Death Eater – I don't care what Albus Dumbledore claims about Snape's innocence. Once a Death Eater, always a Death Eater. And his behavior during his tenure as Potions Master. You should have heard the way my children spoke of him and wrote about him in letters they sent home. Do you honestly believe he was telling you the truth?"
Amelia raised an eyebrow. She recognized such a defense mechanism anywhere, turning blame on someone else.
"Severus Snape spoke those claims under threat of loss of his magic, Molly," Amelia said, "He took an Honor Vow to only speak the truth on pain of becoming a Squib. At the end of the interview, he could still perform magic. He was completely honest in everything he said."
"Then it was misinformation!" Molly attempted.
"Molly, the evidence is right in front of us," Amelia said. "I recognized those specific amorous odors anywhere. I smelled a specific scent, and your husband smelled another. At first he had mistaken the aroma of your home-cooking, because that is what he smells in the vicinity of Amortentia. That is Amortentia, Molly. An illegal substance."
"Severus Snape was telling the truth," Molly said, "Albus Dumbledore – he contacted me. You know how he can be when he gets his hooks in you. He wanted me to brew the Potion."
"Then I assume that Snape was telling the truth as to who the Amortentia was intended for," Amelia said. "You were going to attempt to dose Hermione Granger, and the Potion's effects would have her falling into fabricated, artificial love for your son, Ron. You would also attempt to dose Harry Potter, for your daughter, Ginny. Molly, have you ever heard the phrase Line Theft?"
Molly shuddered again.
Amelia continued. "A piece of information that might not have crossed your ears. Harry Potter is contractually Betrothed to three girls. One of which is my niece, Susan. So you can understand that I take a personal interest in this. Three girls, plus Harry, that is four Houses. Four counts of Line Theft. Hermione Granger is romantically involved with Harry Potter, as I am sure you know, and as far as I can tell, their relationship may last to a time when Harry isn't only married to his three Betrothed, but his girlfriend as well. Hermione is a Muggleborn, but any children she and Harry may have – that is yet another count of possible Line Theft, bringing the total to five."
"Dumbledore is responsible for all of this!" Molly said, "It is Dumbledore who these charges should be against."
"So you're going to make me believe," Amelia said, "that you have no part in the fact that Ron and Ginny, your own children, would take part in the plot if it was successful? Am I to believe that Ron and Ginny are entirely to blame in their part of the scheme?"
"My children are innocent!" Molly cried.
"Make me believe it then," Amelia said, "I will be talking to both of them, but I'd very much like to hear it from you. Did you or did you not agree to the plan that included to involve your children in the schemes to entrap Harry Potter and Hermione Granger in the effects of Amortentia? Is that why you wanted to brew the potion? Because your children would have a part in it! Molly, your husband already informed me of a past misdeed in which you tried to ensnare an innocent witch for your eldest son, William. The evidence is stacked against you."
"Alright!" Molly growled, "Yes! I took part in Dumbledore's scheme with full knowledge of the plan. Dumbledore had informed me that Hermione Granger had snared her hooks into Harry Potter. A Muggleborn, involved in what may ultimately become a serious relationship with the Boy-Who-Lived, the Savior of the Wizarding World! The Potters come a very long magical bloodline. To further poison it with children from a Muggleborn's womb? That is criminal behavior. My daughter is a pureblood witch, born of the Weasley and Prewett line! Two bloodlines which should have power in our society. To mix them with the Potter bloodline would bring those lines back to where they belong."
"If you truly believe what you are saying," Amelia said, "Then I must ask you this. If you believe a Muggleborn would only 'taint' a bloodline, then why scheme to ensnare Hermione for your son?"
"I would never allow such a relationship to go so far," Molly said. "Ron fancies Hermione. Nothing more."
Amelia raised an eyebrow. Such a statement made her that much more suspicious toward the youngest son of the Weasleys. She would definitely be interrogating him. Ginny, on the other hand. Amelia knew there was likely nothing more than a schoolgirl fancy for Harry from Ginny. Nothing to point to something so sinister.
"Very well," Amelia said. "Molly, aside from the criminal charges already listed, you are also suspected of Theft of a different kind. You see, I spoke to Keeper Ragnok at Gringotts, recently, and he informed me of a possible Theft of money. He thought there was a strange coincidence. Once a year for at least nine years, Harry Potter's trust Vault would lose a large amount of Galleons on a certain date. It couldn't have been in Harry's possession. He knew nothing of his Vault, much less the wizarding world until his eleventh birthday. On the same date of the disappearance of these funds, the Prewett Family Vault would find a large sum of Galleons in addition to what was already there. This went on for many years. Molly, I am merely a messenger for this crime. The Goblins specifically wish to be the judge, jury and executioner of any criminal behavior when it comes to Theft from their Vaults and accounts."
"Albus Dumbledore took the money from Harry Potter's trust Vault," Molly said, "As his magical guardian, Dumbledore was allowed to do so. It was he who put a portion of the funds in my family's Vault every year. My only crime when it comes to theft from Gringotts is using a portion of that fortune over the years. Dumbledore is entirely to blame for that."
"That is for the Goblins to decide," Amelia said. "At the moment, I can only give a message of your confession. However, for the first charge..."
She brandished her wand and pointed it at Molly. Her wrists snapped together as they were bound in magic-binding cuffs. She then waved her wand toward the door and summoned her messenger Patronus, then sent it to the Ministry.
"Molly Weasley," Amelia said, "You are under arrest under suspicion of illegally brewing substances, intent to use illegal substances for heinous means, and Line Theft. Do you understand these charges?"
"Yes," Molly said, quietly.
Amelia turned to a very emotional Arthur. "Arthur, I have no reason to interrogate your daughter, Ginny. But I am afraid I must speak to your son, Ron. With your permission, of course."
"I'm not entirely sure how many words you'll get out of him," Arthur said, doing his best to keep his voice steady, "The hexes which had been applied to him sometimes renders him mute."
Amelia raised an eyebrow and smiled wryly. "I'm sure I can get what I need from him. It is suggested you are in the same room while I interrogate your son, since he is underage."
"O-of course," Arthur said, with a nod.
Two sharp cracks were heard. A minute later, Aurors Kingsley Shacklebolt and John Dawlish were standing at the front door.
"Come inside, gentlemen," Amelia instructed.
Shacklebolt and Dawlish walked inside.
"I am requesting prisoner transport for Molly Weasley, here," Amelia said, "And possibly one other individual. Auror Shacklebolt, remain with the prisoner until I return. Auror Dawlish, as you can see, there is evidence here to be collected. Collect the evidence but remain here until otherwise instructed. I will return shortly."
"Yes, ma'am," Shacklebolt said, and Dawlish echoed his partner.
"Lead the way, Arthur," Amelia said.
Arthur glanced at Molly for a long moment, before he walked out of the kitchen, followed by Amelia.
"Please describe Ron's symptoms of the hex as best you can," Amelia said as she followed Arthur up the stairs.
"The Langlock Hex renders him mute and momentarily chokes him," Arthur said. "At the same time, the Flatulence Hex takes form. I am sure you can imagine what happens because of that hex."
"Is the hex set off due to anything specific?" Amelia asked.
"Madam Pomfrey at Hogwarts," Arthur said, "believes that the hex is set off whenever Ron tries to fib on his attackers."
"So it renders him mute?" Amelia asked.
"Indeed," Arthur said, "It appears that the Flatulence Hex is additional ammunition in order to – ah – ensure that individuals have to tend with pungent aromas as they attempt to further interrogate Ron. Impossible anyway. He cannot speak of his attackers. I don't know how you will able able to succeed where we cannot."
"I have a theory that might have been easily missed," Amelia said.
Arthur lead Amelia to the top of the stairs where Ron's bedroom was located.
"Is Ron able to walk if need arises?" Amelia asked, outside the doorway, "I know he suffered an injured leg."
"I believe his leg is mostly mended," Arthur said. "He is capable of walking."
Amelia nodded and motioned to the door. Arthur opened it, and led Amelia into the small bedroom. Ron was currently sitting on his bed, propped against pillows. A curious expression crossed his eyes as he looked from his father to Amelia.
"Ronald," Arthur said, "This is Madam Amelia Bones, Head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. She wishes to speak to you."
Ron waved a hand shyly in silent greeting.
"Ron, it is nice to meet you," Amelia said. "Your father was just informing me of the dreadful hex put on you. Do not attempt to use your voice when answering my questions. Simply nod for yes and shake your head for no. Understand?"
Ron nodded.
"Do you know who is responsible for this hex?" Amelia asked.
Ron narrowed his eyes and nodded.
"Does the hex prevent you from writing answers on a piece of paper without setting off the side-effects?" Amelia asked.
Ron shook his head.
Arthur gasped. "Of course! Written speech! How did none of us think of it? It seems so obvious! Oh, Ron, I am sorry this suggestion wasn't made earlier."
Amelia conjured a piece of parchment and a ink-filled quill then handed them to Ron.
"Write down who did this to you please and exactly how they did it," Amelia instructed.
Amelia watched as Ron quickly wrote down his statement then he handed it to her. She read through it:
Harry Potter and Hermione Granger did this to me! Hermione attempted to steal my wand, then she placed me under an Imperius Curse! I didn't realize exactly what she did until hours later when I started choking and farting!
Amelia raised her eyebrows as she read over the statement. She sighed audibly.
"May I speak to you outside the room, Arthur?" she asked.
"Of course," Arthur said. "We'll be right back, son."
Amelia followed out of the room and Arthur closed the door.
"How well do you know Hermione Granger, Arthur?" Amelia asked.
"Hermione?" Arthur asked. "Mostly I know what Ron and Ginny have told me. Ron was her friend, though I heard from Ginny that this is no longer true. Ginny has told me in the past that Ron is often jealous of Hermione because she is a smart witch. But from what I know of her, she is smart and very kind. Her parents are wonderful people as well. Raised a good young lady."
"Do you believe she would be capable of performing an Imperius Curse?" Amelia asked.
Arthur's eyes widened. "While she is a smart young witch, I doubt she would be capable of it. At least to do anything too threatening with it."
"I have to agree," Amelia said. "I met her recently, and she is book-smart and full of common sense. She would be full aware of repercussions if she performed the Curse. Plus, as you said, she is one of the kindest young witches I've ever met. Yes, she can be feisty and strong-willed. But you can say that for a large percentage of women in the entire world."
"Is that what Ron wrote down?" Arthur asked, "He accused Hermione of using an Imperius Curse?"
"He accused Hermione and Harry Potter of hexing him," Amelia said.
"Oh, dear," Arthur said, "That might not be true at all. Ginny spoke to me recently and informed me that Harry and Hermione were dating. She told me Ron was no longer their friend because he could not overcome his jealousy of their new relationship. Ron has shown signs of jealousy toward both Harry and Hermione in the past. Dear me. I apologize, Amelia. It seems my son wanted to retaliate toward his former friends, and this was how he did it."
"I suggest we move him to St. Mungo's," Amelia said, "Where the Healers will be able to cure him, Once he can speak freely, I wish to interrogate him. I have reason to suspect heinous behavior against Harry and Hermione. Albus Dumbledore seemed to be targeting Harry and Hermione, and for some reason has used Ron as a pawn. I need to find out if Ron has other connections with Albus in regards to Harry and Hermione."
Arthur frowned and nodded. "I will prepare Ron to move to St. Mungo's. We will leave with you and – and the Aurors when they take Molly. Amelia, I must ask again. Is Molly in danger of incarceration in Azkaban?"
"I have to be honest with you, Arthur," Amelia said, "The person I want in Azkaban is Albus Dumbledore. But Fudge has granted him a pardon of amnesty for a year. Until I can bring up charges on Albus, I am afraid Molly will suffer for it. The best outcome is that Molly spends a year in Azkaban until I can detain Albus and discover if he truly is behind the crimes she is being accused of."
"Well, that seems better already," Arthur said, with a heavy sigh. "Thank you for trying to find some good in all of this."
"You are most welcome," Amelia said. "I will see you downstairs shortly."
Arthur nodded and returned to his youngest son's bedroom. Amelia started back downstairs. It truly hurt her to have to tear apart this family because of criminal activity. She knew that Albus Dumbledore was behind it. It was obvious that Molly was a pawn. Molly had a clear weakness, a history of brewing illegal potions, and Albus knew how to exploit it. Molly Weasley would likely be serving time in Azkaban, all because of Albus Dumbledore.
Amelia also suspected that she would soon discover that Ron was another pawn of Dumbledore's. He had several weaknesses Dumbledore could exploit. In fact, Amelia wouldn't be surprised if Albus was behind Ron's bewitchment. Accusing Harry Potter and Hermione Granger, that seemed like something Dumbledore would want to do.
Amelia's resolve strengthened further. She would find out every little detail about Dumbledore's criminal behavior so that when a year passed she could take him down. She only hoped that no more families were ruined because of him.