A Change of Power by Order of Wizengamot! Part 1

A Change of Power by Order of Wizengamot! Part 1(Seth Wright's Office)
(OOC: Combined threads from the previous site)


Seth Wright
Seth Wright was distraught as he entered the Minister's office. He had just come from an emergency Council meeting. The meeting had driven the Senior Undersecretary to near collapse but he had to admit this had been coming. With a heavy heart he sat at his new desk as he thought over the past year, First Caulton and now Fox. Two Great Ministers and now... His inner thoughts were interrupted by the portrait of the little old man signaling. With more temper then he meant to, Seth said, “What?”

The little old man just gave a small smile as he said sighing, “Yelling at me won't bring them back you know! So it is official?”

Seth just sadly nodded as he said, “Sorry, didn't mean to snap...It is just that we do not need this...It was the reason I hid Fox's disappearance...Then he comes back and orders Adarian Ackland into Azkaban. Soon after that I find out he is dead...Now...The Wizengamot...didn't ask...but...instead...had already...decided... that...I am to replace him...as Minister of Magic. I am not a desk person...”

He was cut off as the little man said cheerfully, “You did a great job while Fox was where ever! The Council members just wanted to make it official. Any chance of getting Adarian released?”

Seth shook his head as he said with a heavy heart, “No and that is what makes no sense. None of Wizengamot even knew...about the orders...much less...the arrest. They can't even figure out what cell the kid was placed in...Only that man... Hawke...That man has some explaining to do.”

The little man said, “Do you want me to signal the Caretakers? Or call the Aurors?”

Seth said as he realized that the little man had signaled earlier, “Did something need my attention?”

The little man smiled as he realized that Seth was stalling. In the old man's opinion, Seth Wright had every right to be furious at how things had been handled. As the new Minister, he had a wop-of-a-mess to clean up.

Taking a breath as he said, “Councilman Fairmont would like entry but I thought you need some time...I told him to wait!”

Seth heard that and broke out laughing as he said, “Lucas usually don't like to be kept waiting...”

The little man shrugged as he smirked saying, “He said that he understood...seemed to...just want to...check on...how you were holding up. He then sat down...I believe he is still sitting...Should I send him a...” The little man had considered sending the councilman away.

Seth said as he shook his head realizing what the portrait was asking, “No, send him in and get me who ever Hawke left in charge! It was an Auror that made this mess...Let's see...if...they can...get something...right...and clean it up!”

Lucas gave a sly smile as he closed the door behind him. After a few moments he said, “Seth...I do believe...That Mr. Elijah Hawke... gonna regret the day he and you met! How are you doing otherwise, my friend?”

Seth shrugged as he said, “I warned that man! Now...I find out...he the only one that...seems to know where Adarian is!...I told him...He would answer to me. Lucas...We should have hid the young man, instead...of just letting...I knew something...was...Just...Not...Right...I should have..."
Lucas Fairmont went over to his old friend and sighed. This had been what he and the others had feared as he thought, Seth's blaming himself, just like with the American incident...How was he suppose to know...Fox was...the last wizard...that any of us...thought would send...an innocent...man...to...the same awful place...He spent...fifteen years! Well if Caulton...was able...to free Fox...then Seth should be able...If we can find him...Hang In There Kid...Just Hang In There! The councilman knew none of the Caretakers would rest until Adarian Ackland was found, especially Boss.

Putting his hand on Seth's shoulder as he said, "Seth, we will find him. He is tough just like his uncle. None of us thought Fox would...not after what he had went through...We have the kid's release order...so once he is located...He will be Released...Then we can make sure that...It Never...Happens...Again!"

Seth gave a quick nod and then said, "Plus now...I still...have to find...somebody... to tell...Sasha. Maybe you...”

Lucas quickly shook his head, stepping back as he said, “No Way! I am going anywhere...near...Sasha McChey...anytime...soon! Honor, my foot! Seth you know just how she is going to react to the news. Who ever you send...better be... somebody...that needs punishment...or...that Sasha...respects a lot...and You Know It! As for me...I rather...go after...Hawke! I agree though...the Department of Law Enforcement...made this mess...They... should clean it up! Who are you putting in charge for that Department?”

Seth slyly smiled as he said, “Dempsey! It was why I asked for the works to be done on him. If we can't find anything, nobody else will!”

The Councilman cringed as he said, “Jury is still out on him. He has been deeply under...a long time...You sure?”

Seth nodded as he said honestly, “Lucas, two things told me. One was that if he had really belonged to the Seven...Dempsey would have...never...requested...Tarik... Especially where Tia was concerned! The other has to do with Adarian...Dempsey could have...burnt...that boy's cover...long ago...No...Tarik is right...Dempsey might do...things...differently...but...He Never Betrayed His Oath...And Now...I get to... Reward that Loyalty! Plus what better way...to fight...this type of enemy? Caretakers will be where...they are...the most useful...Out in the field and at Hogwart's. Dempsey can find the leaks...Here...And Plug Them!”

Lucas smiled as he nodded. His friend wanted Dempsey where he could be tested. The real work was at the school. While Dempsey was at a desk, the Caretakers will finally be able to hopefully get some answers...And just maybe...plug some leaks!

Before he could comment, Councilman Lucas Fairmont heard Seth say, “Stay Close my friend! When the Daily Prophet comes out in the morning, then The Real Work Begins!”

The councilman smiled as he said, “You are hoping...they come after you! Caretaker Meeting and unlike Fox...You Will Follow...even stricter guidelines!...No argument Boss!...I will inform Air! Whatever is decided...I am sure...those responsible...will pay!...but...two Ministers...are all...They Are Getting!!! Are we Clear?...or... Must...you...hear it...from Air?”

The new Minister of Magic grinned as he said, “Set the met, Lucas! The Dark Wizards are about to finally meet their match! They wanted a War, They got one! Lucas, I am tired of..the small fry...It is time...to finally going after...the Big Fishes! I know...one of very few...safe from our net...The Protector of the Shield...hopefully... that won't comeback...to bite Us...You have...the list?”

Lucas smiled as he nodded, “Boss, Your family?”

Seth inwardly cringed as he said calmly, “We will figure...that out...at the meeting. I still haven't talked to them about what happened in America. Let's just...get our people...placed...than..we can worry...about...how...a certain group....of young ones are going..to take...the changes....One step at a time, my friend...One.step..at...a.... time.”

Seth turned to the portrait and said, “Time to Inform....Cameron!”

Councilman Fairmont nodded as he saw the little old man disappear. As Lucas left to carry out the orders of the Council, the old Auror had to smile as he thought, The Wizengamot wanted Seth as Minister and Sasha to run Hogwarts so badly...that they...gave in...to every one...of Seth's conditions. Change was coming.

"About TIME"! Then in almost a whisper, he said, “Dark Wizards Beware! Your Worst Nightmare Has Just Became MoM!” Tonight we bring the fight to you!, Lucas realized as he signaled his team.

Certain wizards at the Ministry had been watched, tested and was about to be placed in positions where their influence could not help the Dark One.Lucas smiled as he said quietly, "I love Cleaning House! Don't You?"

His men nodded as they busted into the first office on the list, Headmaster of Durmstrang Institute.

(OCC: Lucas Fairmont is one of my characters as is Sasha McChey. Plot Thread!)

Lance (Maxwell) Sinclair
Maxwell Sinclair was headed for Seth’s Wright’s office. Seth had sent him an Owl asking for a short visit to discuss some information he has to deliver to a friend and fellow colleague. He had been waiting for the decision to be made and had not given any hints of the possibilities to the friend because with the Ministry, things could always change. It would be a joy to be able to honor his friend, even though she did not realize it was the best thing for her.

Apparating to the reception office of Seth Wright, he gave his name to the secretary and sat in the comfortable chair by the large picture window. After about five minutes, the secretary signaled Maxwell to go right in to Seth’s Office. Max knocked lightly on the door and then went in without waiting for permission.

“Hello Boss, congratulations on your appointment.” Smiling he added, “Glad to finally hear they figure out what should have been an automatic appointment …. She will love it when she learns to accept the honor.” Seth was not Maxwell’s boss but it was his codename in the Caretaker Group they both belonged to.

Maxwell went and sat in one of the chairs in front of Seth’s desk.

Seth Wright


Seth had just gotten back from his first official meeting with the British Prime Minister, Cameron Rowe. Cam was family and Seth's Muggle counterpart. The met had went fairly well with only one snag.

Shaking his head as he thought about Cam's words, He would not sic Maria on me...Would he? He's just worried that the trap I am planning will backfire...That is all...Cam wants the killers as much if not more than I do! It is Cam that has to constantly find excuses for deaths of their muggle victims...Without his help...and secrecy...Well my job would be impossible...The plan is foolproof as very few even know. If things go as I plan...Then when they strike...The group will fall right into the waiting wands of The Caretakers!



Seth heard the voice and looked up as he said shrugging, “It depends on what side of the desk you are on, I guess? Have you located Adarian yet? That kid should have never been sent to Azkaban...I knew something...” He stopped as the new Minister realized that Max had called him by his codename.



Sighing as he realized that his friend was not just here due to the note sent concerning Sasha.

Seth sat back as he said, “Sorry Max, mind is elsewhere at the moment? So who worried about me besides you, Cam and Lucas? And is it just a talk or has the works been ordered?” Smiling as he decided to slip the note he received that very morning in his special drawer. Lucas had said that nobody but the council members and Caretakers knew of my appointment or Sasha's. We have a very high up leak for me to receive that note. I trust my fellow Caretakers but the Council...well...That is totally a different matter!

Note To The New Minister of Magic:

Seth Wright,
I was please to hear that Wizengamot
overlooked the American incident
though I doubt Shadow would.
Consider his reasons...
Have you told my Guardian
of your's or
more importantly her Father's role?
We had a insightful chat her and I
this past summer...
I plan on more...

As for your New position...
Boss...
I find no Problem...Do You?
Who Knows....
We Might Make A Great Team...
I think Your Family...
Might find that has it's Rewards
Think of Me as

Your Advisor

P.S. Show Your Wisdom Minister....
Be In Touch!

MAXWELL


Max smiled. He knew Seth was more comfortable in the field and had been hoping to get out from behind the desk he was now securely stationed to.



Shaking his head no, Maxwell also let out an uncharacteristic sigh. Maxwell was the official in-house Psy-Healer of the Caretaker Group and unofficial Psy-Healer to several of the Ministry groups. “We have everyone looking Boss. So far no one has even admitted he was held anywhere for transport. When he was captured, it looks like he dropped off of the face of the Earth. They cannot hide him forever if he is still alive.” The problem was Maxwell knew, some did not think he was still alive, but no one was willing to give up



Max did not miss the fact Seth had just slipped something into his desk drawer. At the moment he was going to take it for granted it was only Ministry business. “To answer your question Boss, all I will say is Air has opened the book on this one. Every page is being followed, and everyone has been given their assignments.” Smiling he added, “Hope you like company?” Arianna Sadiki, Organizer and Head of the Caretaker Group, had everyone working over time. All had their regular jobs plus were back-up for at least two others in the group. It was like a finely woven net, and Seth was in the middle.

“All they ask from you, Boss is stay alert, do not go out on your own after anyone and keep them informed of anything here at the Ministry which may be of interest. Auntie will be your contact mostly here as well as our friend in the painting.” Maxwell turned slightly and bowed to the little man in the painting. He would be their eyes and ears in the office. Auntie was Pippen English’s codename with the Caretakers. It seemed like the woman could get into anywhere and had no difficulty having everyone telling her about everything, and all it took was a fresh batch of chocolate chip cookies and a smile from heaven. Maxwell had fallen for her questioning twice before he realized what he was saying, and he was a trained professional.

“Air should be here in a little while. She is checking with Sherlock at the school to make sure all the avenues are covered. Then she will be stopping by Sara Puddifoot’s to see if she needs help with the members of Hogsmeade. She said to tell you she would get here as soon as possible, but you were not to worry because the Ministry was secured as much as it could be. All Caretakers are on high alert and their messaging orbs are primed for a moment’s notice.”

Stopping for a moment, Maxwell looked at Seth then said, “Seth, I know you brought me here to have me volunteer to inform Sasha she was now Head Mistress of Hogwarts, because you figure she will not hit me as hard and I can duck fast, but old friend what else is on your mind?... Do not dare say nothing or I will sit here until you tell me and then tell Air you were refusing to talk.” Maxwell smiled because he was not the only one who would not like going up against Air’s tongue. She had a way of having the oldest person, saying yes madam quickly and begging to know how they have injured her and what they could do to make things better.

Maxwell sat back in his chair and waited.

ARIANNA SADIKI


Arianna’s head hurt. She did not mind apparating places if it was only once in a while. So far she had done it three times in the period of three hours and it was taking its toll. She had left her apartment in London as soon as she confirmed the appointment of Seth; apparating to Hogwarts School to talk with some of the members of the Caretaker team. Brennan, Head of Security, and codenamed Sherlock, was her first stop. He was on the ball and had all the students accounted for as well as the teachers. Except for other Caretaker members, the school was on lockdown. While she was there she had talked with Richard Greene and put him in charge of notification to all members of the Caretaker Group and the gathering, confirming and delivering of gathered tips, and information concerning the Ministry. Stopping in to Pippen’s office she explained what needed to be done and asked if she needed help making the cookies. She was informed, three batches had already been made and her Auntie outfit was clean, pressed and ready. Arianna smiled, because Pippen could charm information out of the best of them.

From here she headed to Hogsmeade and had a meeting with Sara Puddifoot, unofficial group leader of the citizen group who kept everyone informed on what was happening in town and around the world if they were lucky enough to get visitors from outside the area. Darik was also there and would be getting in contact with the different animal clans in what was left of the forbidden forest and in the surrounding hills.

She made a quick stop and talked with Charitee at the Café to let her know to send out her feelers and see if she could find out any plans which may be trying to hatch in the darker areas of the magic world. Finally she apparated to a her office in the building next to the Ministry, cleaned up a little and headed for Seth’s new office.

Waving at the secretary she just walked in. Seth was behind his desk and Maxwell was sitting in one of the four very comfortable chairs in front of the desk. Both men stood up as she entered, “Hello Boss and Healer, sit back down, gentlemen. Sorry I am late, wanted to get everyone headed in some kind of direction. Congratulations Seth, it is a well deserved promotion. I am glad they finally came to their senses at the Wizengamot.” Arianna chuckled because she knew how Seth felt about sitting behind a desk, but he was the best choice for the job.

“So how far have you gentlemen gotten in your discussion?” Before either could answer, Air turned to Seth and added, “Boss I will not lose another Minister on my watch so behave and stick to the rules ok. Use the Caretakers where you need us, but if we give you a warning heed it, ok?”

SETH


Seth cringed as he thought, I should have gave that signal. My instincts were telling something was wrong...That is the last time I ignored my instincts cause each time ends in disaster. Each time a good person is the one who pays the price. Adarian is not going to pay for my mess-up, not like William. It's America all over again and just like then I was not in the field...It Is Not Going To Happen Again!



Seth thought, I hope that doesn't include the probing?



Seth looked at the portrait and said, “I have him for constant company...Please tell me that this company that Air has decided on isn't more of the same?” It was hard enough hiding notes from the little old man but if there were several portraits it would be impossible.



Seth slightly cringed as he said, “Max, Lucas is already at the Ministry. What is wrong with him being my connect?” Seth liked Pippen but she had already gotten him to tell her more then he told even Max.



Seth needed to get one thing off him mind thanks to the note. Smiling, Seth said, “How did my god-daughter's sessions go?” The note had said that Tia had visits from the individual that sent. That the person planned more and that the ones he had already had were a length. Seth was terrified for the young girl.



Seth was going to say nothing but was interrupted.



Seth said, “A Lot my friend, A Lot!”



The little man said, “She is here.”

Seth smiled as he said, “I guess our talk can wait? Or does Air want you here as well?”



Seth sat back down as he pointed to a chair.



Seth cringed as he reached in his desk's special drawer.

Note To The New Minister of Magic:

Seth Wright,
I was please to hear that Wizengamot
overlooked the American incident
though I doubt Shadow would.
Consider his reasons...
Have you told my Guardian
of your's or
more importantly her Father's role?
We had a insightful chat her and I
this past summer...
I plan on more...

As for your New position...
Boss...
I find no Problem...Do You?
Who Knows....
We Might Make A Great Team...
I think Your Family...
Might find that has it's Rewards
Think of Me as

Your Advisor

P.S. Show Your Wisdom Minister....
Be In Touch!

Has he handed it to Max, he said, “I got this at my home about five this morning. I asked Lucas and nobody but the Caretakers and Wizengamot even knew until after that sign changed on that door right before I walked in here about an hour ago. Which means we have a very big problem! I trust the Caretakers but after what happened with Adarian...that Council is another matter! Somebody got that order for Fox to sign with means...”

ARIANNA


Maxwell was hearing Seth’s thoughts but he had enough practice over the years not to let any hint of what was happening show on his face or in his actions. Anyone who took the time to know Seth, knew he blamed himself for what had happened when he had okayed a raid on a dark magic family home. No one was supposed to get hurt. The Auror’s were given permission to protect themselves, but deadly force was on the record as not to be used. A whole family had been wiped out because a young Auror fresh out of school had opened fire prematurely and the battle could not be stopped.

They would find Adarian, dead or alive, they would find him.



“Air has definitely not decided to add more portraits around. If you get more then we all have to have more so we can be alerted if any one of them shows something. I have Muggle patients and it is hard enough now to explain why I have a large painting of an empty chair in my office. One of my Muggle patients was looking at the painting once when our friend here came in and sat down in the chair. Since we are not allowed to use Magic on Muggles I had a hard time explaining what they were seeing. I had to tell them it was trick photography used when the photo was made.”



“Now Seth, Auntie asked especially if she could keep a very close eye on you. I do know Air said she had to give you some privacy and not sit in your office with you, but she will be close.” Maxwell could not help but add a small chuckle when he said, “She commented on how much she really enjoys your talks …. I heard her myself say you were a very interesting person.”



“All I can tell you is it went very well and we covered a lot of ground,” Maxwell looked down at his hands. Those who knew what had been talked about and what had been said, were given permission by Tia to know the information. Until she gave Max permission for Seth to know, he could not tell him. “I will check with Tia to see how much she wants out in the open. She is as safe as we can make her and she has become more mature in her outlook. You can be very proud of her.”



“I am not sure what she wants. If she wants me to leave I will. If she wants me to stay, I will. Your safety has become a Caretaker Group problem and we all bow to her wisdom as usual.” Maxwell could say this because he knew Air only had the good of the magical world in sight. She was not power hungry, far from it. She did not go overboard to prove she was in charge, in fact she had explained it to him once that by choosing the right people and then just letting them do what they did best, she was able to get everything done which needed to get accomplished. She was a very smart lady.



Maxwell thought before he retook his chair he should ask about staying, “Air do you want me in on this meeting. I still have to visit Sasha, although I am not really looking forward to it. You are a great friend of hers, why don’t you tell her she is in charge of the school now?” Maxwell added with a smile.

Arianna nodded toward the chair and smiled, “Not on your life Healer. I never have understood why she fights the idea so much. She will be excellent at it. She has a good staff and can pull more in if necessary. She knows where everything is there and has pinpointed all the possible weak spots, which she had Sherlock running around blocking and re-blocking. The pleasure is all yours.” Air turned a big smile on the Psy-Healer.



Maxwell knew what Seth was pulling out of the drawer. He got up and went to the small kitchenette and pored himself a mug of Iced Sweet Mint Tea and with a silent glance asked Seth and Arianna if they wanted anything. Arianna and Seth both shook their heads giving no responses. Returning to his chair he waited to find out what the note said,



As Arianna listened to Seth’s explanation on where the note had come from she read the contents. Someone thought all they had to do was threaten one of her people and they could take charge. There was a leak somewhere and it was high up in the administration for someone to know about Seth’s new role. The reference to the Guardian was a reference to Tia. Arianna could not hesitate.

Turning to the portrait, she said, “Could you please ask Brennan Dawson to join us here immediately. Thank you.” The small man left the chair headed for another one in another portrait where Sherlock would be able to see him. Arianna smiled when she remembered how the little man had actually walked into several of the portraits at the school, looking for her once. The other occupants of the portraits he entered had been quite upset.

(OOC: I have permission to say what Maxwell said and did in this post)

BRENNAN DAWSON


Seth smiled as he said, "At least now I know where he goes on Friday at four o'clock and why."



Seth asked worried, "What else has she said?"



Seth relaxed a little as he asked, "Then no disappearances or unknown visitors?"



Seth nodded as he thought, That what worries me. If Air has asked for the works then the group would know that I still had nightmares and threats that I have never revealed. If that happens being at this desk will be the least of my worries. I have no choice as I won't have family killed because of me again. The death of his sister and the others at St. Francis had made it clear that Valentine had every intention of destroying him slowly. Whoever this new threat was, he seemed to know about America and that terrified Seth. What if Advisor told Tia? It could destroy how she views her father. Especially if that person shows her who I put in charge of that group...It was one Auror that started the bloodbath but William always blamed himself.



Seth chuckled as did the little old man.



When the little man returned he said, "He is walking also I think he has a sweet little tag-along? She was following trying not to be seen."

Brennan entered through the secret entrance holding Tia's hand. With a look of defeat he said, "Sorry, she is getting good though. Did not see her until the tunnel. Want me to send her back with an escort of Aurors?"

Tia got a look of stubbornness on her face as Bren tried to get her to understand why she should not have come. Turning to the others in the room, Bren said, "Tia stop being stubborn! I told you if it has to do with you, I will tell you. You leaving school is dangerous and your aunt is going to have my hide."

ARIANNA
Arianna smiled. It had never occurred to her the painting may need someone to talk too, and Max was about as safe as you could get. The little man was very inquisitive, “Max, if he is a bother tell him.” She looked at the painting realizing the old man had not returned yet. Brennan would not be easy to find, because he traveled fast when he was working on security matters. The boy wanted to be everywhere at once. It made Arianna tired just thinking about it.

Richard knocked at the door then walked in. The receptionist had told him he could go right in, but he had learned it was better to knock when the two highest ranking officials in the Caretaker Group were “talking” and with Max in there he did not want to break up any “session” they may be having.

“Come in Caretaker,” Arianna said. “Welcome.”

Entering he nodded to Seth and Arianna, adding “Boss, Air.” And then took one of the chairs near the wall. If he had missed anything they would let him know.



Richard knew Brennan had some final security matters he was wrapping up at the school. Air would have known this, so if his presence was being requested early his expertise must be needed. That could only be a note. Every member of the Group had a specialty. Richard’s was locating lost articles or things of interest, material or informational. Brennan was the best Profiler he had ever seen. As the young man got older and gained some experience with the Caretaker Group, he would be one of the best among them. Richard sat forward in his chair, placing his elbows on his knees and clasping his hands in front of him.

Air turned in her seat and handed Richard the note, then turned back in her seat waiting for Brennan to show. Brennan would realize something needed to be profiled and he loved the work, so he would be there with no hesitation.




The first thing which hit Richard was the fact there had to be a leak somewhere high up in the Ministry. The writer knew too much information which had not been made public, or even gone too far through the Ministry itself. Richard was going to be busy tracking down the leak and how information was traveling.




Richard smiled. Brennan was holding true to form. Apparating made Brennan violently sick so he walked or even took Muggle transportation a couple of times so he would not have to literally “pop-in” to somewhere. He must have done it at least once though to get from the school to London, but after arrival in London he walked to the Ministry. Richard looked at the painting and silently asked the little man, “where from?”. He received the answer “Café”. Brennan had been found at Charitee’s Charms, a small café in Diagon Alley. Charitee would be coming, because she was also part of the group, so he could talk with her then about anything she may need.

Arianna saw Seth and Maxwell stand up; then she noticed Richard stand and they were all looking toward the door to the secret tunnel. She turned to see Brennan and Tia standing just inside the entrance. Rising she motioned for the men to sit down. Walking over to the two new arrivals she nodded to Tia adding “Tia, welcome.” Turning back to Brennan she said, “Have a seat, Mr. Dawson. We will talk later.” She tried not to sound too stern, but she knew Brennan had gotten the idea she was not happy.



As Tia started to follow Brennan to a chair, Arianna put her hand gently on the girls arm and said, “Wait Tia, I need to talk to you before you decide if you want to take a seat. “ Arianna had purposely phrased her question to allow Tia a choice. “

“Tia look at me, not at Brennan. Following him was not a good idea; you put yourself in danger and possibly Brennan also if he would have had to defend against someone to protect you.” Arianna kept watching Tia’s face to see if what she was saying was sinking in. “Now that you are here, you and I need to come to an understanding. First this is only one of the places the Caretaker Group meets. We are not part of the Ministry. I guess you would say we are a security unit on our own.” Arianna was not about to tell Tia, that another reason for them being in existence was to be the main adult advisory and protective unit for her Council if she decided to accept the position of ruler when she became of age. “We govern ourselves through a set group of rules using a check and balance system. There are many in the Ministry itself who do not even know we exist.”

Arianna needed to sit down so the girl could concentrate on listening, so she led her over to two of the chairs near the tunnel opening. “Sit please Tia. The second thing you need to understand, is that I am in charge here, I have absolute final say so on what we do and how we do it.” Looking around the room she smiled and added, “Although sometimes some of the members do operate on their own and usually do what I would have done. They know if their actions become a problem they answer to me. If you stay you will not be allowed to talk only listen. Seth is second in command. If you need either of us and cannot find us, talk to Richard as he is third in command.” Ari could feel Richard’s eyes on her. She had never informed him he was third in command.

Richard’s head shot up from where he was re-reading the note. With Brennan being his partner he liked to try and second guess him. Smiling he handed Brennan the note, and listened to what else Ari was telling the young princess.

She smiled back at Richard and turning back to Tia saw the stubbornness returning to Tia’s face. “You may ask any of the member’s questions and I will give them permission to answer you. But Tia if they say they cannot answer your question, you will need to accept that as your answer. The information either does not concern you or is too dangerous for you to know. The members of the group do not keep secrets from each other, because a bit of information which may not be important to them at the time, may save someone else’s life later.”

“Third this organization must remain secret from most of the populous. This means no one can be told unless permission has been given by me. There are consequences to telling others,” Arianna looked at Brennan, then back to Tia.” This would mean Tia, you cannot tell anyone under any conditions. Not any of the Core, not even Landon. After today you will not even be allowed at another meeting until your seventh year at Hogwarts.” Arianna knew Tarik would be having a talk with Tia about her future before she graduated.

Sitting back in her chair Arianna looked at Tia giving her a chance to decide what she wanted to do. “If you decide to stay, go over there,” she indicated a seat near Richard not Brenna who she knew Tia would automatically gravitate to, “and sit next to Richard, do not say anything, listen and learn. I also have a little puzzle for you. Everyone in this organization has a job outside the organization, and everyone has a specialty in the organization, see if you can figure out the specialties.”

MAXWELL


“She worries about you. Ummmm …. If she brings special cookies to you …. Please say you like them. She has been working on a recipe which is supposed to taste good but have a lot of vitamins and minerals in it.” Maxwell had to smile and added a chuckle. Pippin English, code name Auntie, acted at times like you favorite old Aunt, but she had a few surprises for anyone who tried to cause her trouble. “Beside thinking you need, more rest, fresh air and nourishment, she has suggested setting up a special perimeter guard.” Max shook his head and added, “Air talked her out of it, so don’t worry.”

When Seth asked about the sessions Max had with Tia over the summer he told him what he could and still hold to the rules between patient and doctor.



Max put on his face the calmest expression he could and said, “Now is not the time, Boss, too many people arriving. How about a session later?” Max did not want to go into everything which happened over the summer with Tia. They had used many of Seth’s ideas, but it was still too complicated for the short time they had.



Maxwell just smiled. He knew Seth realized he could read his thoughts, but most of the time no mention was made of the ability by either knowledgeable person involved. Air had ordered a complete Caretaker workup done on Seth, which would include a mind-dive to at a minimum the fifth level, but it was up to Arianna to bring up the subject. Maxwell had the right, according to Ari to pull anyone from the field for a workup, but Seth’s workup was her idea, so she would call the shots on where and when.



Arianna nodded toward the chair and smiled, “Not on your life Healer. I never have understood why she fights the idea so much. She will be excellent at it. She has a good staff and can pull more in if necessary. She knows where everything is there and has pinpointed all the possible weak spots, which she had Sherlock running around blocking and re-blocking. The pleasure is all yours.” Air turned a big smile on the Psy-Healer.


Telling Sasha McChey she was now officially the Head Mistress of Hogwarts, was actually a pleasure because it was an appointment she deserved. She had been doing everything a headmistress’ job required for about a year now. Max did not know how many other people knew Sasha’s fear of the job was because she was afraid of being corrupted by the power, like a friend of hers from school days, named Daniel Marsden. She was married now and Tarik would be very supportive, besides she was loved by the staff and students alike at the school.



Maxwell watched as Seth retrieved the note he had seen him try to secretively put into his desk earlier. He handed it to Arianna looking like a little boy who had just gotten caught stealing. Arianna read the note then handed it to Max, who read it and handed it back. Max was no profiler but he was able to determine there was a very bad problem very high up in the Ministry.

Before he could make any comment there was a knock at the door.



“Hello Caretaker, I was wondering how soon you could get away from the school. Those students in your class are planting stuff everywhere. They also seem to think they need samples of everything growing. I bought an Indian Tea plant back to the school with me and they would have stripped it if I hadn’t hidden it.” Maxwell put up his hand when it looked like Richard was going to agree to chastise his students, “No don’t be mad at them. I have sent for four more plants and I am having them delivered to the Herbology classroom. If you need more let me know.” Maxwell returned Richards nod and smile.



“Air, while we are waiting for Sherlock, I think it would be the perfect time for you to explain to Seth what is in the works for safety measures.” Arianna had told Maxwell when he thought the time was right to tell Seth about what was being planned for him, to let her know.

Air looked at Maxwell and then relaxed back in her chair. Looking first at Maxwell then at Seth, she started, “Very well Max … Seth you know we all trust you, if we did not then you would not be in the position you are in… but you also must admit we have a leak … and you are in danger, so,” Ari paused to try and get her thoughts straight. This was one of the harder things she had to do in her position as leader of the Caretakers. Continuing she said, “I am officially ordering a complete medical workup on you. This will include all of the regular medical tests, plus a Caretaker physical.” Looking Seth straight in the eyes she added, “I am also adding a mind-dive level five minimum.”

Richard shifted in his seat. If the situation got any worse, Air would be ordering the same medical procedures on all of them. Richard cringed, he could take the mind-diving, but saying the Caretaker physical was very uncomfortable to go through was a gross understatement.

Maxwell watched Seth’s face to see how he would react to the news.



Maxwell cringed and rubbed the back of his neck when he saw Brennan enter with Tia. It was a breach of security which Arianna would be forced to not overlook. The young man should have known better. Hopefully Max could convince Arianna not to fire him and have his mind wiped. He had not only brought an “outsider” to a meeting of the Caretakers, but he had brought her through the secret tunnel which would now have to be abandoned and reconstructed somewhere else. Luckily he would not be involved in that work.




“Brennan,” Maxwell said with a shake of his head, indicating Brennan should not say anything else. “Tia will be fine. Richard has a note we need you to check out..” Maxwell half smiled and motioned toward a chair near Richard with his head. Turning back to Arianna and Tia, he listened.



Tia had not let go of Brennan’s arm since they had entered the office. When Arianna chastised Brennan and called him Mr. Dawson she knew he was in trouble. When she sent him to sit down, she grabbed his arm tighter and was determined to go with him, as a sign of support. Arianna did not grip her arm hard, but she realized she had to let go of Brennan’s arm and stay where she was. Her eyes followed him all the way to his seat, then she turned back and stared at Arianna.




Tia nodded because she was in perfect agreement with this statement.



Tia did not want to be chastised. She started to shift from foot to foot.

Maxwell saw the movement, as Tia could not stand still and he felt sorry for the young lady. She had probably thought she was on a great adventure and now was being treated like a child, which she was fighting against in every part of her life. It had been one of the main themes in their sessions, not being treated as an adult.



Reluctantly Tia allowed herself to be led to a chair. Her back was to Brennan and Richard. She could see Maxwell who had a slight smile on his face and her god-father Seth who had a little larger smile on his face and who was looking at her with encouragement in his eyes.



There was never a truer statement made. Maxwell could have listed at a minimum three times when knowing a small amount of information, which once seemed to have no relevance, had saved him and several others. He hoped Tia remembered the statement about keeping secrets and used it in the Core and with others around her. It would make it a whole lot easier protecting her and the others.

Maxwell noticed the girl did get a thoughtful look on her face. Maybe Arianna was making a difference.



Tia turned in her chair and looked at Brannan. She realized he was in a lot of trouble for bringing her here. It was all her fault of course and she would have to try and get him out of trouble. She turned back to Arianna, while she tried to think of something which would make his punishment less. These were grown-ups and she knew punishment as a grown up was harder than if it was for a childhood wrong. Tia wanted to be treated as an adult, but sometimes she had second thoughts.



Maxwell nodded. Arianna had put the choice of staying squarely in Tia’s lap. If she stayed she would be welcome as long as she did not interrupt. If she left she would still be making an adult decision, realizing she may not be able at this time to follow the rules set down.

(OCC: Richard and Arianna are my characters; I have permission to write for Maxwell and Tia)

SETH


Seth smiled as he said with a chuckle, “Max, you guys just don't know good food when you taste it.” He had gain a little weight with her cooking. Seth just worried about her. Pip was easy to talk to and reminded him a lot of Sabrina. He just was worried that she was putting too much strain on her leg as he had been noticing her limp more and the pain in her eyes. Thinking, “Maybe I should talk to Lance about checking to see if he can do anything without Arianna having to be told?” Seth knew that Pip was afraid that she might be pulled from the field, shaking his head as he thought about waiting until he was sure that Lance would not inform Air.



Seth smiled until he heard about the perimeter guard.



The New Minister smiled as he said, “Max, you probably know how I feel about Pip? I have not felt that way about anybody since Sabrina's murder. I swore than that I would never allow myself to put somebody in...Well we both know I have...enemies...I am worried about...them...finding out about...” Seth stopped as he was unsure of just what he was scared of as even Pippen had no idea of his feelings. Seth had vowed never to allow his enemies to do to another person what they had done to his wife and son, just to get to him. The strange thing was his wife's body had been found but not his son's.



Seth nodded.



Seth smiled as he asked Air, “I guess it is a full meeting of the minds, then?” Very rarely did all the Caretakers gather in one spot. This was for a few reasons but the main one was their enemies might get a few but the rest would get ample warning that gave enough time to set a trap. When they did all meet it was an extremely important assignment and they never got much of a notice.

Realizing that his meetings for the day had to be canceled, Seth said quietly, “I will need to free today's schedule unless you already gave the girl at the desk an excuse as she probably has me booked solid?”



Seth smiled at Richard as he pulled a very weird plant from the window. Handing it to Richard as he said, “Maybe you know something about this thing? It looks like a crystal to me but the girl at the front desk swears that it is real...She handed it to me when I walked in. I was thinking of giving it to Auntie?”



Seth realized that whatever Air was about to tell him was not up for debate. It was a done deal and that worried him.



Now Seth was really worried as he had heard Air start this way before and the last time it had been Sherlock that was on the receiving end. Frowning as he knew what was coming.



Seth smiled as he said, “Understandable.”



Seth tried to hide his terror as he asked, “And if I refuse the mind-dive? Or ask that it go no lower than level three?” He knew this was coming but still if his plan was to work and protect those he cared about then, “It has to get back to whoever is sending those threats that I was forced.” Seth knew that his refusal would just mean that Air would pull out all the stops to find out what he was hiding. Seth had just insured that.



Seth was just trying to come to terms with his immediate future, when Brennan Dawson, Sherlock, entered through the door leading to the private tunnel followed by Tia, his god-daughter. He shot a glance toward Brennan then started to walk toward Tia to give her a hug. Arianna was going to be furious that Tia had come and he wanted to be close if Ari scared her.

Air would never physically or mentally hurt any child, but she could be a little over-baring if you did not know her.

Before he even got two steps, Air waved him back to his seat.



Seth tried to put a smile on his face, so Tia would understand everything would be alright.

Tia just nodded as she tried to follow Brennan.



As Brennan walked by his desk headed to the seat on the other side of Richard, Seth briefly raised his eye brows asking why he even contemplated bringing Tia down the tunnel. He received no reply. Brennan must be lost in his own thoughts. Seth turned back to Tia.

Tia got worried that she had gotten her friend in big trouble so she said with a stubborn look on her face, “Don't blame Bren! When he spotted me, he tried to signal to somebody for what he called, 'Pick-up'...I took his ball and said I would stay outside the entrance unless he took me through with him!”

Looking at Dr. Max, Tia said, “I was given forewarning that Bren might be needed at the Ministry and that it concerned me...though why you guys waited almost thirty hours, I will never understand? My friend also congratulated me on my god-father's becoming Minister, what did he mean?” Tia watched Seth and realized that something she had said terrified him. Thinking, “Maybe I shouldn't have said anything? Should I tell them what else Protector had said? About him being sorry that he woke Seth when he visited to deliver his Master's invite?” Tia wasn't going to reveal that as soon as Bren had seen the little old man, she had decided to follow and insure that both Bren and Seth was safe.



Apparently Air was going to talk to Tia right then and there. It would be fine for Tia to know those present were part of the Caretaker Group, but if she stayed she would be open to many more secrets than Seth thought Air would want her to be. He still thought of her as a little girl.



Seth had been listening to Air explain about the Caretakers, occasionally adding a nod. When she said Richard was third in command he was a little surprised. She had talked to him about the possibility, with all directions the Caretakers had to cover, but she had never told him she had made the decision. Not telling him though was not a worry, because when Arianna said she was in charge she meant it and all the Caretakers had signed on the dotted line in agreement.

Tia smiled as she said, “So this is what you been thinking you been hiding? I hope you tell Tarik soon...Cause he hates secrets as much as I do! This is the group that father said to trust in his note to me? This is the group that he and Seth joined in America?”

Getting a feeling of anger that she was unaware of Tia finished, “This was the group that my father counted on to protect me and Marcus? Then tell me why when my brother needed back up...You Guys Were No Where To Be Seen?” Trying to calm down as she realized that it was like at Charitee's all over again. The Protector was near enough to link and it scared her as the young Slytherin felt his anger and knew that he had used her to find the tunnel. Staring at Max as if asking if he knew and just what she could do to protect her god-father.



Tia was not going to be happy with being told she could not find out about anything. One of Tia’s small problems was, if you told her she did not need to know something, she worked that much harder trying to discover the secret. Agreeing to Air’s rules would show a huge growth in his god-daughter.

The last statement about not keeping secrets, made Seth cringe, a movement he hoped none of the others had picked up on. He had been keeping secrets from the group, to try and keep them out of his problems. Air was not going to be pleased when she found out…. And if they did the mind-diving she was going to find out.

Tia smiled as she said, “I can accept that as long as they don't try to avoid the question...Like saying they forgot to pick something up...Some people are very poor lairs. Don't you agree God-father?” Tia shook her head as she realized that her God-father was keeping things from even these Caretakers.



Seth was genuinely surprised Arianna had let Tia stay. He would have to have a talk with his god-daughter in the next few days and discover what had made Air think Tia could be trusted in this situation.

Tia shook her head as she said, “I am sorry but I have promised the older Core that we would have no more secrets. Like you, the Core is a team and as some very wise trusted friends have told us...If we are to stay that way, then we must trust each other enough and keep nothing back! So if I can't at least inform the older members, I will have no choice but to decline? Though I must request that you consider that the Core have already proven ourselves where information is concerned? As I told Max, the Core Trusts Those That Show They Trust Us!”

Bren smiled as he realized that Tia had reminded Air of the pact that was made in the Hospital Wing. She had come along way. He would wait on profiling the note until the issue of Tia had been decided. The Profiler was worried though as he looked at Max and thought, “What would the Dark One want with Seth? Plus why tell him about his invasion of Tia's mind? Could he be threatening Tia? I really want to get started on this note but I have already gotten on Air's lecture list as it seems so has Seth.” Bren was unsure just what Air was doing and until he did, the profiler could not risk dealing with the note in front of Tia.