Chapter 1 Prolouge : Department of Student Transfers
Cornelius Fudge's lime green bowler hat wobbled like a demented top, his round face shining with a thin sheen of perspiration under the unshakable gaze of his most difficult colleague, Albus Dumbledore.
"Now Albus, think reasonably, she's been accused of a very serious crime. There must be other schools she can attend! Perhaps even a correctional facility that will help her deal with her.. erm, problems."
Dumbledore weaved his long fingers together, "Cornelius, you know I have nothing but respect for your cautions-" the Prime Minister snorted, but remained silent, "-but I have spoken to Miss Scrimgeour personally and I can assure you, she is not dangerous in the least."
The bowler hat nearly toppled this time. "Don't tell me you think she's innocent! She has a history of disreputable behavior, her mother was admitted to St. Mungo's for nearly two years for extensive psychological analysis. She's a disaster waiting to happen."
Fudge straightened his bobbing hat, drawing his portly body to it's full height before continuing with a distinct air of finality, "I won't allow it. She cannot attend a school within my country. Even your beloved Hogwarts Professor."
"I don't see how you should have any say in who may attend my school Minister." The older wizard stated quietly, his eyes demurely downcast, "As I am the Head Master. Did we not agree, some many years ago, that the Ministry should have no involvement with my school unless I express a want for government intervention?"
"I…well, I do seem to remember something quite similar to that…" Fudge motioned to his pimply assistant, "Fetch that parchment for me, will you Gillian?"
"Ah, there will be no need for that Cornelius, I happen to have them right here-" Dumbledore produced the yellowing parchment with a flourish of his purple robes, smoothing the document on the Minister's desk. "As you can see, it is ultimately my decision as to whether Miss Scrimgeour enrolls successfully in Hogwarts."
Fudge sighed, resigned. "She's your responsibility then Dumbledore. If I hear anything, even a speck of foul play from that.. that girl then I will personally ship her to America. Let the crazy Yanks deal with her."
Dumbledore smiled lightly, "Thank you for your time Minister. Rest assured that she will be a model of decorum among the students."
Gill watched the elderly wizard glide out of Fudge's office, a strange chord plucked in his soul, he was in awe.