Disclaimer: I do not own any rights nor make any profits from this story.
Nothing lasts forever. Even the longest, most glittering reign must come to an end someday.
Kingsley Shacklebolt had finally stepped down as Minister of Magic. A unifying figure, a strong leader since the end of the war. He had ended the corruption that had allowed Tom Riddles' forces to so easily throw down the Ministry. He removed figures who only rose to fame on the coattails of others, or on the size of their gold donations. Laws were overturned allowing all witches and wizards, regardless of birth to be equal, as well as those laws that discriminated unfairly against creatures such as werewolves. He helped encourage peace and prosperity. Truth be told, he stayed too long. People kept encouraging him, pleading with him to carry on, not wanting to risk change after such a good leader. Alas after so long, he had had enough. He insisted to the public that new blood was needed to bring in a new age. So he took his final bow and the wizarding world looked for the next leader.
So who could take over and follow in such a giants shoes? Minister Shacklebolt would surely go down in history as a great. a strong act needed to follow without a doubt.
The contenders. Madam Augusta Longbottom. Too old and stuck in her ways to really be a contender. Neville Longbottom, her grandson. Too young and too fresh to the scene but eager, groomed by ambition, rising on the wave of his heroics during the final battle. Who knew that such a sweet boy could have turned so ambitious? Arthur Weasley, the popular choice. A people person, humble origins, understands the plight of the ordinary witch or wizard. Blaise Zabini, a lout, well meaning but rather Gryfindoorish in his strong headed tendencies despite his Slytherin origins.
Watching in the shadows was one Severus Snape. A 'true and loyal' hero of the war. Many had not trusted him after his miraculous survival of Nagini, but through continuous demonstrations of his loyalty he had become more popular and slowly risen, gaining some political power in the role of Chief Whip. He kept the members of Wizengamot in line. He put a bit of stick about. Made sure they did not get ahead of themselves, learned all of their dirty secrets to help keep them in line, years working as a spy making this job seem easy. He gained respect and fear from the people knowing that there had never been a more adept whip. Politicians saw him as the perfect tool. None realised that he had political aspirations. He wanted to climb the ladder. Years of being trodden on meant he wanted to keep control of his own destiny, but not yet. He would continue as chief whip, for now.
Arthur Weasley was of course chosen. The next five years rolled on by. Not as decisive as the previous leader. More mistakes, and silly laws that annoyed the public. As with all politicians, re-election was upon them all too soon. Arthur, after tasting power, was afraid to lose it. He called upon the support and help of everyone he could. One of these was Severus who complied and drummed up supporters, enough the ensure that Arthur scraped by with a victory. Severus didn't particularly like Arthur, personally or politically. He knew, however, that Arthur could continue for another few years, and through a show of loyalty, offer Severus the political power he so desired. It could easily be said that Arthur won the election because of his ability to 'round up the troops.' Arthur promised him a new position, and so it was with great excitement that he entered the minsters offices on the first Monday after the election.
Authors Note: I hoped you enjoyed this first chapter. I know it was not long, but future chapters will be longer. I will try and update at least twice a month, but will not make any guarantees beyond that. I apologise for any spelling or grammatical errors. This story may not be to peoples liking, but it is a first attempt at writing. Reviews, whether positive or negative are highly appreciated.