"Good evening esteemed guests,"
Clearing his throat, the familiar sound of his deep voice echoed around the concourse.
"Tonight is the time for celebration, mark it with grace. Tonight is the time for humility, mark it with integrity. Tonight is the time for progress, mark it with initiative. It is time to release the collective breath we have held for this past decade."
Many in the crowd clasped shaking hands and gazed with unbelieving content at their fellow companions.
"The dissidents amongst us will claim that these trials have been biased, unfairly pitting criminals against a too rigorous justice system. I ask them, how can justice be too rigorous? How can prevailing fairness be prejudiced?"
As a seasoned politician he paused for a moment, allowing the question to linger within the ears of his rapt audience.
"We have rebuilt our criminal justice system with the rocks cast by weaker souls, erecting a strong barricade against corruption, exploitation and immorality. We have ensured that those choosing what is easy, over what is right are removed with complete impunity. The days of familial legacy securing your place within this government are gone, and with them we bid farewell to a weak and unmerited system."
His infamous eyes pierced the face of many a Ministry employee, as if challenging them to test his hardened resolve.
"It is with great gladness I announce, that as of 1 pm British Standard Time today, the war trials are over. This era of tainted jubilation can come to pass allowing unburdened celebration to commence in its place."
He adjusted the heavy goblin made gold timepiece on his wrist as if documenting the moment peace descended over the wizarding world.
"I implore of you, that tonight you embrace your loved ones and savour the taste of victory. Revel in the fact that as a society we have paid meaning to the sacrifices made by so many of our beloved own."
The crowd watched as their unwavering Minister sought out the weathered face of his Mother-in-law and briefly touched his heart.
"Tonight we must rejoice and commemorate in equal measure, we must exult and honour with equal vigour."
"And tomorrow…"
He paused once more, the millisecond of silence resounding loudly in the silent atrium.
"Tomorrow we must get to work."
Applause shattered the spell cast, and the glittering ceiling panels reflected the hundreds of euphoric bodies, moving in a swell of uninhibited triumph.
A/N This was a completely random thought that came to my head when thinking about the real aftermath of the war. Please Read and Review, I love receiving them :)