AN: Another chapter is complete! This one is slightly longer than the others so far, but not by much. I had a lot of fun writing this chapter, but there is something semi-serious that I want to talk about.

I've been debating on leaving fanfiction for a while now, tbh. I would continue to post my stories on my ao3 account, but I'm not sure if this site is where I want to post my works anymore. I have a lot more support for my stories on ao3 and people are always leaving kind comments. I don't get that sort of feedback often on here. I don't even get much constructive criticism anymore, which is even more of a bummer.

3 out of every 10 reviews offers an actual review instead of "update soon" or "Cool story"

Seriously though, from the bottom of my heart, I appreciate all of those who offer me wonderful reviews. You have no idea how much that makes my day. A special shoutout to ReginaSlytherin for giving me such a wonderful and compassionate review last time.

As much as those reviews make my entire days, I get too many reviews that just say "Update soon", and tbh, they have the opposite effect on me. I don't have the desire to write more when I see those. I feel pressured to continue and often lose motivation or the want to do it.

Of course, this doesn't mean I'm going to leave immediately, but it has been on my mind for a while.

I'm not expecting a review from everyone, but I would like to know if ya'll are enjoying the story. I at least know on ao3 how most people feel about it, but not so much here these days.

"Lord Sayre," Resisting the urge to roll his eyes at the voice, the man slowly turned around and offered a polite smile to the dunderhead that was the minister for magic. Hobbling up beside him was a toad-like woman wearing a ghastly shade of pink. One could wonder who had the worse taste in fashion; her or Dumbledore.

"Minster, secretary." Octavian provided a nod, sadly giving the duo his attention. "What can I do for you?" Ever since creating his alias and claiming his seats, the two had yet to leave him alone and stop sucking up to him. They were the same way with Lucius and a few of the other wizards that held powerful seats. He understood why Lucius sided with the man, though. He was easy to subdue and control.

"It seems we will be having an impromptu meeting at noon," The minister informed, looking rather surprised by the turn of events. Octavian rose an eyebrow at the news, trying to stop himself from grimacing as Secretary Umbridge spoke up, her voice sickeningly sweet.

"It has something to do with the Goblin nation, apparently. Such vile creatures. One can only wonder what their kind want with Wizengamot." She had her nose turned up and the mere mention of the Goblins. Again, Octavian had to resist rolling his eyes.

"Whatever it entails must be of importance," Octavian reminded the horrid women, making sure to keep his tone neutral. "It's not often that Goblins involve themselves with the affairs of our kind." Before she had a chance to respond, Fudge cut her off with a nod.

"Precisely my thoughts, Octavian. The last time they bothered coming to Wizengamot was to deal with an issue of line theft, and even then, they had not made too much of a fuss. That was years ago." The Minister informed, crossing his arms in thought. "They are sending a representative, however. William Arthur Weasley has taken the role of speaking for them."

"Thank Merlin for that," Umbridge commented, making a face that resembled someone eating a lemon sherbet. "I don't know if I could handle the stench of those creatures. They have no place here." Again, Octavian felt the urge to crucio her for the lack of respect she had for the Goblins. "It's bad enough we have to deal with Albus Dumbledore and Harry Potter spreading lies of the Dark Lord returning," Holding back a smirk, Octavian hummed.

"I wouldn't be so quick to judge Lord Potter," Octavian commented, making the two ministry officials look to him in surprise. "We all know how manipulative Dumbledore can be. I wouldn't put it past the headmaster to pressure Lord Potter into saying those things. He has control over Hogwarts and from what many associates have told me, often expresses favoritism for Harry Potter."

"Hmmm, yes." Fudge admitted with a nod, looking thoughtful. "The boy is only fifteen and many teenagers at that age can be impressionable. Perhaps Dumbledore is convincing him to spread those lies." Umbridge was bristling, looking like a toad that was about to explode as she opened her mouth.

"Even if that is the case, the brat shouldn't be saying such things! Dumbledore or not, he is fully capable of making conscious decisions on whether it is okay to lie or not," Holding his magic at bay, he cleared his throat and looked at the secretary for a moment, before giving his attention to the minister.

"The rumors of the Dark Lord's return aside, there is something else that must be addressed regarding Dumbledore." Octavian began, folding his hands together. "I find it odd that he was stripped of his title of chief warlock without too much of a fuss," The Minster snorted.

"Lord Sayre, surely you can't be complaining of the action? I thought for sure that you would have approved of the change." Raising an eyebrow and allowing a small smirk to form, he nodded his head.

"Oh no. I very much appreciate the fact that he no longer holds that title, but I merely find it off that the Goblins are getting involved when something of that caliber happened not too long ago. Perhaps it's a coincidence, but…" He trailed off, setting the doubts in their minds.

"You do raise an alarming point," Fudge couldn't help but agree, a frown on his face and a dazed look in his eyes. "It is strange that Dumbledore lost his title of chief warlock mere weeks ago, and now the Goblins are calling an impromptu meeting." He frowned more. "No one was informed as to why he lost the title either, not even me."

"Which is simply outrageous! He is the Minster. He should have been notified as to why Albus lost his title!" Umbridge huffed, her round face becoming pink as her anger became known. "If he did something unjust, everyone should know instead of it being hidden," While he loathed the women, she did raise a valid argument. What was the point in making people doubt Dumbledore if they were left in the dark?

"I agree," He barely withheld a wince as she seemed to preen at his acknowledgment of her point. "Perhaps the answer will come to light in today's meeting. Say what you will about the Goblins," He gave her a pointed look at that. "But they are very insightful and meticulous creatures. If they had something to do with it, they will ensure that Dumbledore is humiliated." It was amusing watching her flush and flounder for an argument, but the Minster swopped in.

"Octavian is correct, Delores. If the Goblins are behind Dumbledore losing his title, they will ensure he feels the most shame he can. Shaming is a huge part of their culture, and it certainly holds merits." The Minster pacified his secretary, sending a look of apology to Octavian. Despite being a bumbling idiot, Fudge knew well enough to give the Goblins respect when due. They were intelligent and clever creatures after all. "I have another meeting to get to before noon, Lord Sayre. We will see you then," The Minster offered a farewell as he and his secretary walked off, leaving a smirking wizard.

Did the Goblins say when they would be revoking the order of Merlin? Tom waited for a response, forcing his smirk to not widen when Harry replied.

No. They mentioned it should be soon, though. I take it they're planning on doing it today? He could feel the excitement through their bond and gave a hum in response.

It appears so. They're using William Arthur Weasley as their representative. What can you tell me about him?

Oh! Tom felt even more excitement at the mention of the name. Bill is the oldest child of the Weasley family. He's a curse-breaker employed by Gringotts and he's typically stationed in Egypt. He doesn't hold Dumbledore very highly. The headmaster tried to convince him to join the Aurors and the Order instead of following his passion. I don't think he ever told his parents about the meddling from Dumbledore.

I see. Tom had a frown on his face as he walked into the law department, heading into his office that had been provided once he showed his credentials and certificates of being a lawyer. Thankfully, he had studied law all throughout his life, but the credentials were thanks to the Goblins. Do you think this will cause a rift between the Weasleys? It was silent on the other end as his heir pondered for a moment, eventually speaking back up.

No, I don't think it will. If anything, it will give the final push for the Weasley's to leave the Order. From what the twins have told me, their parents have been thinking about leaving for a while now. Their trust in Dumbledore has been wavering ever since my first year. At least, that's what Fred and George told me. Tom once more hummed, sitting at his desk and glancing at a few papers that had been provided by the Goblins and the archives of the ministry. They're not the only ones either. I know for sure that my godfathers have plans on leaving the order the first chance they get. I think they're waiting on me.

Ah. They still believe that you align yourself with Dumbledore. I will admit that you have done an exceptional job of keeping your true alliances hidden for the most part. For someone who has doubted Dumbledore for a long time, you have yet to make him suspicious of you.

Well, I had a little bit of help along the way. One of my godfathers, Remus Lupin, helped me master Occlumency when I was in my third year, so even if he is doubting me, there is no way for him to sneak into my mind and find out. He could practically hear Harry laughing at the fact that he was making Dumbledore's life harder. It took him a minute to realize what the younger wizard had said and was gasping.

Wait. Do you mean to tell me that at the age of fourteen, you mastered Occlumency? Again, he could swear that Harry was laughing. How much else is there that we don't know about you or your abilities?

Um, not much? Harry tried to supply, but it came off as embarrassment. I mean, there are a few things that Barty doesn't know either. I can use parselmagic? But you can too, so it's not that big of a deal. Tom snorted, shaking his head to himself.

Considering that took me years to master, it is a big deal. He teased his heir, smirking when he heard a huff coming from the other end.

I'm also an Animagus, but that isn't too uncommon. Barty doesn't know that yet, though. I plan on surprising him with that knowledge later. Tom once more shook his head when he felt the playfulness coming from the other. I hope we can finally exonerate him and Sirius soon. I hate that they have to stay hidden all because the system fucked them over.

Language. Tom immediately scolded. But you are sadly correct. Those who had been in charge of ensuring the system remained just ended up being corrupt. Lucky for us, that will change in time.

They eventually ended their conversation and Tom focused back on the papers provided on his desk. He looked through them, pausing as he read a note that was from Lagnuff and Grufgon. As soon as he finished reading it, there was a dark smirk on his face as his eyes lit up.

"Noon can't come soon enough," He mumbled to himself, looking to the clock with a sigh.

All of Wizengamot took to their respected seats, many of them looking downright confused. To Lucius' right was Lord Parkinson, who had a scowl on his aristocratic features. "Lucius, have you any idea as to why we were called here today? The next meeting isn't supposed to be until this coming Friday."

"If I knew, Philippos, I would tell you. I'm at a loss myself as to why we were called here today," The blond admitted, meeting Octavian's eye from across the room. He gave a small nod to the man, before turning his attention to the sound of a soft voice.

"Secretary Umbridge certainly looks upset at this predicament." Anthea Greengrass spoke, causing Lucius to hold back a grin. "More so than usual." She added as an afterthought, causing Lucius to break character and chuckle.

"Then the events will be worth it today. It's a shock to me how she managed to get sorted into the Slytherin house." Lucius stated offhandedly, flicking some invisible lint from his robes. "Ill-tempered people often find themselves in Gryffindor."

"I agree with you on that, Lucius," Anthea declared with a sigh. "One who becomes worked up easily also shouldn't pursue a career in politics." There weren't many members of Wizengamot who enjoyed being in Umbridge's presence, but they had learned to tune her out as the months went by.

"How odd," Kingston Longbottom said after a moment, noticing something that was sticking out. "We appear to have everyone here…except for Lord Dumbledore." That caught Lucius' attention and the blond wizard did a subtle scan of the room, only to find that Dumbledore was indeed missing. "And I am for certain that the letter insisted that everyone needed to show up."

Before Lucius could question what was truly going on, there was a magical breeze in the air that made his heartbeat pick up. He wasn't sure how to label the emotions he was feeling, and if the reaction of the others in the room were anything to go by, they were just as confused.

All except Octavian, of course.

The breeze picked up for a moment, eventually stopping when there was a flash of light and Albus Dumbledore was seated at the bottom of the room. It was where the people sat if they were on trial, but again, Lucius was at a loss. The Minister was in his usual spot and there was no judge to decide what happened with Dumbledore.

Sparing a glance at his Lord, he wasn't surprised to see a blank look on the man's face. Octavian rarely allowed himself to show his emotions in public, especially if it involved Dumbledore. Then again, the man couldn't afford to have his public opinion known too soon. There were still too many fanatical light supporters in Wizengamot, and as someone new, he had to keep a neutral ground for now.

And speaking of Dumbledore…

The old man looked his age for once. There was no twinkle in those eyes and the man was more pale than usual. He almost looked resigned. Almost.

"Ah, Minister. Can you tell me what this is about?" Dumbledore had a curious look on his face, trying to paint a picture of an innocent grandfather. Lucius would have rolled his eyes if he weren't in public.

"Your guess is as good as mine, Lord Dumbledore." Fudge answered in return, sounding just as confused as Dumbledore looked. "We have one more person on the way. He should be here-"

Lucius nearly did a double-take when he watched none other than William (Bill) Weasley walk into the room, a serious look on his face as he took the stand.

"Minister." The young man gave a nod as he laid a file on the table. "If it is alright with you, I would like to go ahead and start with the proceeding."

"As you wish, Heir Weasley." The man responded, giving him a wave of acknowledgment. Taking the cue, William Weasley turned to face the members of Wizengamot.

"I am here as a representative of the Goblin Nation," He began, ignoring the way Umbridge seemed to shudder. "And as such, it is my job to inform you of the transgressions of Albus Dumbledore. As a representative, I only speak for them and do not take part in the magical ritual they have performed." He slowly turned to look at Dumbledore, who for once, was thoroughly confused at what was going on. "As these transgressions were committed at Gringotts, Albus Dumbledore has already been found guilty in their courts and by Goblin Law."

"He's not a Goblin! They can't do that-" It was one of his supporters, but she was quickly silenced by a mysterious force.

"And as the treaty between the Goblins and Wizard goes, they have the ability to enact the punishment as they deem fit." William carried on, ignoring the protest from the light side.

"Bill, my boy," Dumbledore looked like a disappointed grandfather, his arms crossed. "Surely this is a mistake? What rights do the Goblins have over a wizard? Surely their laws should not affect us?" Bill merely rose an eyebrow.

"Usually, that is true." The eldest Weasley admitted, openly staring daggers into Dumbledore. "However, as everyone knows, our laws become forfeit the moment we step into Gringotts. When we are in the confines of their domain, we must answer to their laws. Being that the charges against you took place at Gringotts, they are well within their rights to find you guilty. This has been into effect the moment our ancestors forged a treaty with them. " Dumbledore opened his mouth, but the Minister was quick to the draw, wanting to know what was going on.

"May we ask what grounds Lord Dumbledore is being," The Minster paused and backtracked for a moment. "Has been tried on?" He corrected. Many of the other witches and wizards expressed their agreement, and Bill held up a hand to silence them.

"Of course. I was just about to state his reasons for being in this predicament. While I can't go into specifics or names of the victims, I am at liberty to state that Lord Dumbledore has directly, and intentionally went against the wishes of the dead." That statement had an immediate effect, and even those on the light side had gone silent, looking at Dumbledore in shock. The Old man sputtered for a moment, looking distraught.

"I'm sure it's just a misunderstanding! I would never-" He was silenced by the magical wind that surrounded him, angrily swirling in the air.

"As the evidence has been looked through thoroughly by all the Goblins in the United Kingdom," Bill began, sending a look to Dumbledore that suggested he keep his mouth shut. "They have all come to the conclusion that these actions were deliberate after the testimony of a partial executor, who helped create the will," The ginger merely glanced at Dumbledore, holding back a sigh. "stated that Lord Dumbledore was the other executor in ensuring their wishes be met,"

Lucius couldn't help but lean forward, clasping his hands together as he became more invested in the situation Dumbledore had found himself in. "They performed a cleansing ritual and looking through their liluqux vaults," There were a number of gasps that echoed around the room, the sound bouncing off the walls and fading into the magical air surrounding them. Even Umbridge looked disturbed at that, her face scrunching up unpleasantly as she peered down at Dumbledore in disdain. "The Liliqux vaults only confirmed their suspicions of his guilt,"

None of the light sides was arguing for Dumbledore now, all of them looking down at him with somber looks of resignation, some of them shaking their head in betrayal.

Dumbledore opened his mouth to respond to the allegations that were against him, but the wind once more picked up and silenced him.

"How do the Goblins intend on punishing him, Heir Weasley?" The Minister inquired after getting over his shock. Umbridge perked up like a cat and straightened, her excitement being mirrored by many of the other members in Wizengamot.

"For one, they have already revoked his status as Chief warlock and supreme mugwump," Bill replied, glancing to where Amelia Bones was seated, who had been assigned the position of Chief Warlock as soon as Dumbledore had been demoted. "And for today," Bill had to resist the urge to not grin like a Cheshire cat, the sensation of the revenge being all too sweet. "Their magic will officially revoke his First-Class Order of Merlin," Again, the number of gasps that went through the room was amplified due to the intense silence.

There was a flash of light and swirling magic that crackling in the air, creating a miniature storm over Dumbledore as the man was engulfed for the briefest of seconds. Almost as soon as he was engulfed, he was tossed out, and along with him was a medal that was left hovering in the middle of the room.

It shined brightly for a few moments, the star-like quality of the medal a stark contrast to the elderly man beneath it. Slowly, the beautiful medal started to dim and rust, corroding to the point that it eventually turned into dust before vanishing into the magical wind that carried it away. No one dared utter a single sound, afraid to say anything. Many of the normally stoic purebloods were left gapping, their eyes wide as they looked at Dumbledore's ashen face.

The silence carried on for a few moments before the minster cleared his throat awkwardly, signaling for the continuation. Bill gave a nod and turned his complete attention to Dumbledore.

"As the Goblins have instructed me to inform you, Lord Dumbledore, they are not done yet. They have plans for another trial in the coming months, and this one will involve all of Wizengamot." Bill warned him, enjoying the terror that was shining in the elder man's eyes instead of his annoying twinkle. "You are free to go." He then turned his attention to Wizengamot and offered a courtesy nod. "Dismissed." The ginger informed, starting to make his way to the Minister and Umbridge.

"Wait, my boy. Bill-" Dumbledore was trying to grab him, but the young man ignored him and continued making his way, eventually losing Dumbledore in the crowd of Wizengamot members that surrounded the once chief warlock, questioning him.

Fudge was talking to Octavian and Lucius when Bill reached them, sighing softly.

"Minister. Lord Sayre, Lord Malfoy," He greeted the powerful wizards, clutching onto the papers that the Goblins had given him.

"Ah, Heir Weasley." Fudge walked to the young man and put a hand on his shoulder, patting it. "I must say, you did a remarkable job today, young man. I don't think anyone could have done it better," Octavian gave a nod, expressing his agreement.

"Thank you, sir. I'm here to request your presence, as well as Lord Octavian and Lord Malfoy. There is some incriminating evidence you need to be aware of in the next trial." Bill confesses, making the Minster frown a bit.

"How incriminating?" The man questioned, looking a little worried for once. Bill glanced to ensure that Dumbledore was still busy, which the man thankfully was. Lucius found himself growing more intrigued, the desire to know festering inside of him.

"A potential breach in the Ministry." He informed the three men, watching as the Minister paled and swallowed hard. "In the past, and currently," He added after a few seconds. Fudge stood tall as he sighed.

"How does a meeting after lunch sound?" Fudge suggested, face somber.

"Barty!" Harry excitedly grabbed the death eater's arm later that day, looking at the afternoon edition of the Golden Horn. "Dumbledore officially had his order of Merlin revoked today!" He passed the paper into excited hands, grinning as Barty gave a delighted laugh.

"Merlin, they got a great picture of him." On the cover was Dumbledore's shocked face as he gazed up at the corroded version of the Order of Merlin.

"I don't know if I like the picture or the title more," Harry admitted.

Not all that glitters is gold: How 'corroded' is Albus Dumbledore?

Barty snorted at the title, humming his approval. "A fitting title," He agreed, placing the paper on the table. "What a shame we couldn't see it for ourselves,"

"Oh, don't worry about that. Tom's planning on letting us watch the entire thing once he finds the time to share the memories," The younger wizard stated with a pleased smirk, reopening his ritualistic runes book that Barty had given him. "He'll probably give them to us this Friday." He realized, tapping on his chin thoughtfully. "After he reveals me to be his ward," It was clear that the green-eyed wizard was more than excited for the day.

"Your birthday is also coming up in three weeks," Barty commented offhandedly, making Harry falter for a moment.

"Oh yeah. I suppose it is." He agreed, only now realizing how close it was. "I had no idea it was this close until you mentioned it," Harry shrugged. "It's was never a pleasant time for me growing up," He admitted.

Barty faced him, a frown on his face. "How bad did they make it?" He asked, placing his forgotten book down. Harry merely shrugged again.

"Granted, it could have been worse considering the other days, but they mostly used their words instead of their fist on my birthday. One of the worst I can remember is my Aunt telling me I should have died with my parents, that way I would be with freaks again," He sighed. "Or last year, when my uncle said that I was a disease to the entire world and should have never been born, that way I wouldn't have the chance to infect anyone. I almost started to believe him at that point-"

He's surprised to feel arms immediately wrap around him and pull him into a sturdy chest.

"I swear to Gaia and Merlin that I'm going to fucking murder them," Barty seethed, pulling him closer.

"If you do, I'd like to watch or even join in," Harry teased, offering a reassuring smile. "I hope your birthdays were better?" He questioned, reciprocating the embrace.

"My mother would always go overboard." Barty chuckled a bit, looking nostalgic. "She'd bake the biggest cake and spoil me all day." He admitted with a fond smile. "They were generally great birthdays until I turned a teenager. That's when my father became adamant about me following in his footsteps. He would corner me at the end of the day and shove me into his study, degrading me for being so close to my mother and not being a good enough son. I know what you mean about the words being worse sometimes. My last birthday before Azkaban had him telling me he wished he never had such a pansy as a son, and that he wished there was a way to get rid of me."

Harry tightened his embrace, scowling to himself.

"He was a bloody bastard." He huffed. "He never realized how great you are." The younger wizard said. "I'm sure you can't wait to denounce him the moment you're able."

"Oh, you have no idea." Barty laughed bitterly. "I can't wait to see Wizengamot reaction at knowing he not only continuously performed the imperious curse on me but that he intentionally placed people into Azkaban without giving them a trial." He took a breath and ruffled Harry's soft, unruly hair. "I did get off topic though, about your birthday I mean." He confessed. "I'd like to know if there's anything you want." Harry flushed at the change in topic, which was now once more about his birthday.

"Uh, I don't know? I mean, I've got all I could ask for, honestly." The teenager confessed, flushing in embarrassment. "I suppose there is one thing I wouldn't mind." He admitted, chewing on his bottom lip.

"Yeah? What is it?"

"One of your robes," Harry stated, causing the death eater to pause. "Maybe an extra one of your death eater robes, or your winter robes?" He mumbled.

"Is there a reason you want one of my robes?" Barty asked, fighting off his rising flush.

"For one, they're really comfortable. I know you've been putting them on me when I fall asleep on the sofa or chair." Harry stated. "And since you won't be around when I'm at Hogwarts, I'd like to have something to keep me warm when I fall asleep in professor Binns class." Snorting at the joke, he ruffled Harry's hair again.

"I could just give you two pairs. Why not a winter one and one of my death eater ones? As much as I'd love to see their reaction to you wearing death eater robes in Binn's class, I don't think it'll be a pleasant experience if they find out you have a pair of death eater robes." Chuckling, Harry nodded.

"Fair point. It's not my fault you and your robes are comfortable." He teased, leaning into the warm body that eagerly kept him there.

Liliqux vaults are essentially the Goblin's version of a pensive