After the court had calmed, the questioning of the late and current Minister's secretary began. Millicent had grown into a rather handsome young woman, and she smiled charmingly at the Minister of Justice. Percy sat forward and began the interview. "Miss Bulstrode, can you relate to us the events of November 13, 1998? Specifically the events surrounding your employer's final hours at the Ministry."

Millicent nodded in assent, "Certainly, Your Honour. Minister Fudge had only a light schedule that Friday, progress reports from the various ministry heads and so forth. Only two were unusual and were both in the late afternoon. The first, Mrs Malfoy, was at four followed by Granger at half past. The Minister's day was scheduled to end precisely at six, so he could arrive home in time for dinner at half past."

Percy interrupted her. "At what time did Miss Granger arrive?"

Frowning in concentration, she replied, "Around twenty past, I believe."

"And what was the purpose of her meeting with Minster Fudge?"

Millicent snorted, "You'd have to ask Granger, Your Honour, she refused to say." Suddenly, she frowned. "Actually, I just remembered. When I insisted on knowing why she wanted to see the Minister, she said, 'That's none of your damn business. If I were you, I'd be more worried about where my next pay check is coming from!' At the time I thought she was just going to complain about me to the Minister, but now..." She looked over at the woman she'd once had in a headlock and cried out, "You murdering bitch! You..."

"Miss Bulstrode! That is enough! The accused has not yet been found guilty! Please withhold your comments until you leave this place!"

Millicent seemed to struggle with herself, wanting to continue with her outburst, but eventually her better sense prevailed. It would be far better to see the Murderess get what she deserved. She could take her personal revenge later. After all, she wasn't without influence, both in the Ministry and the wider wizarding community. Being the Minister's secretary did have some perks, and a few journalists did owe her favours. Angrily she nodded sharply to indicate that she was ready to continue.

"Very well. Is there anything at all you can tell us about the Minister's meeting with Miss Granger?"

Shaking her head, Millicent replied, "No, Your Honour. The meeting was behind closed doors, and the muffling charms activated. I did hear some raised voices toward the end of the meeting, but I couldn't understand the words. The meeting lasted twenty minutes, after which she stormed out, looking far angrier than when she'd arrived. But before she left, she turned back and sneered in the direction of the Minister's office. Then, at about five o'clock, the Minister informed me he was going home early, as he wasn't feeling well. That was the last time I saw him. The bitch must have poisoned him."

"That is all, Miss Bulstrode. While it is widely known how the Minister died, it has not yet been determined who performed the act. You are dismissed. Kindly remember to refrain from announcing Miss Granger's guilt to the general public, at least until it has been determined that she is guilty." Percy stood and addressed the entire room. "We will now take a short recess and return in one half hour, at which time the Wizengamot shall hear testimony from Professor Severus Snape."

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A/N sorry the chapter is so short, but I've decided to make each one limited to one witness's testimony. this means there will be a total of five chapters including the verdict. Prizes will be given out to those who can figure out if Hermione did it or not! And thanks to texasrose and Electryone for their reviews!