Chapter Text
Two eyewitnesses are better than one--the Ministry can't deny Voldemort's return so easily this time. Sirius is wise enough to insist on every verification possible--veritaserum, Pensieve examination, etc. Convinced of the truth, Fudge hastily resigns, begging for Dumbledore to take the position.
He declines.
Instead, the position goes to Shacklebolt or Bones or another competent Ministry official (there have to be some, somewhere). There's no need for a second Order of the Phoenix; the Ministry issues practical advice and hands-on training. Umbridge stays in her paper-filled office and does no harm.
When Harry has his first nightmare, Ron encourages him to tell their parents. Harry refuses at first but eventually gives in. Molly and Arthur refuse to subject Harry to additional lessons with Snape, so Dumbledore takes the responsibility himself.
The year is stressful, but none of them know how much worse it could have gone.