In the Crosshairs
Dragon Voldemort
Chapter 43: Trial
"Good morning," Neville said, early Friday morning in the Entrance Hall.
"Please, only those on the invitation list," Professor Lupin said, "Can't take the entire school."
A few dispersed. Ginny, Colin, Luna, Seamus Finnigan, Ernie Macmillan, Dean Thomas, Draco Malfoy, and a handful of others made up the two dozen students all in their school uniforms.
"I smell coverup," Finnigan said.
The students, unaware Harry was still in flight over the English Channel, followed Professors Lupin and Tonks up the stairs to the second floor, up the ascending stairs.
"Cool," Luna said as she entered the Headmasters' office.
Neville and the rest of the students followed their professors, used the fireplaces, and made their way into Courtroom Ten, took seats above the Wizengamot.
"Greeting," the Minister said from the podium, "We start in five minutes. To the students, this is a formal legal proceeding, please keep decorum—I mean, be good. You will hear both sides, you may or may not agree with it, and that's fine. Take notes if you wish, and be a witness to the process. While we try to start promptly, it's not uncommon for the defendants to be late. Legally, they may be tardy up to fifteen minutes, but such a delay is not to their favor, as we might start without them."
"They've passed the gate," Percy said, from the front bench, "They'll be here in three minutes."
The Minister sat behind the desk, arranged his gavel.
"For those that are to be witnesses, please step out now," Percy announced.
Limping with his arm around Gia, Harry entered the courtroom. Harry was covered in his two casts and bandages still around his ribcage, the hospital gown wrapped around his waist. Ron along with Hermione. Professor Dumbledore with the tapping of his cane came in last.
A bit red in the face, the Minister bellowed.
…
"You're LATE!"
It took a mere second for Harry to scan the courtroom, the faces on the benches visible. He recognized the fellow students including Ginny. However, Harry's eyes locked to the lower desk, behind which, sat the Minister for Magic in his sky blue robes, Percy sat to the side.
"Sorry," Harry said as he limped over to the furthest of the four chairs, "Stairs were—"
"Inexcusable," Minister Fallerschain said as Harry sat, "The Wizengamot provides for many competent Healers, one of which is at Hogwarts, or so I've been led to believe."
Ron sat to Harry's far left. Hermione and Gia sat in between them.
"Minister, I was made aware of his injuries only a handful of minutes ago," Professor Dumbledore said as he trembled on his cane, his eyes roving the benches above, "As you're pressed for time, I elected to forgo immediate treatment and bring him directly here. He will be seen by a proper healer after these proceedings have ended."
A quill against parchment, the Minister took notes. The headmaster waved his wand, conjured up a cozy arm chair, and sat.
"Suppose this Wizengamot should be grateful that Harry Potter could fit us into his busy schedule," the Minister said, "Harry James Potter, you have been charged with three counts of murder in the first degree, six counts of attempted murder in the first and second degrees, assault in the first degree, conspiracy to commit murder, escaping from a legal Ministry confinement, and illegal use of Unforgivable curses during the commission of a felony. How do you plead?"
Harry glanced at the faces of the other students, the Wizengamot. Harry recognized one from The Daily Prophet article, Delores Umbridge, before he turned his gaze back to the Minister.
"Not guilty," Harry said.
"Upon the same charges," Minister Fallerschain said, "Hermione Jane Granger, Ronald Bilius Weasley, and Gia Marie Prescott—how do you all plead?"
Harry glanced at Percy, caught the sense of job satisfaction.
"After you hear the evidence," Professor Dumbledore said, "You will conclude them to be not guilty—"
"Order!" Minister Fallerschain said, "I will record your statement as a plead of not guilty'. Given Dumbledore's disregard for the feelings or rights of the victims nor their families, a trial was scheduled to prove the proven—to that task, Mr. Todd Hamlin will prosecute."
Dressed in black robes, the sharp and clean wizard stood and came down to the floor.
"Today we will be hearing witnesses and discussing the facts of what happened on Saturday, November the twenty third in Hogsmeade," Hamlin said, "Fact—what started as a peaceful outing to Hogsmeade became Potter's personal training ground—"
"Objection!" Professor Dumbledore said.
"Overruled," Minister Fallerschain said, "You will have ample opportunity to make a rebuttal."
"Fact—upon entering Hogsmeade," Hamlin said, "Potter bribed Madam Rosmerta of the Three Broomsticks to disregard a lifetime ban after prior illegal acts. Fact—Potter assaulted students, teachers, and Ministry Aurors. Fact—it took a crowd to restrain Potter. Fact—Potter was taken into custody. Fact—Potter escaped that custody.
"Ladies and Gentlemen of the Wizengamot, after you consider the testimony of witnesses, you will find, without hesitation, that Harry James Potter did willfully lead his friends in an awful rampage that left three dead and others injured. You will find that Harry James Potter is guilty on all charges."
Hamlin paused for a few moments, his eyes roamed the Wizengamot, the students present, before he sat down.
"I first ask the members of the Wizengamot to forgive an old man for not standing for the entire proceeding as my age and condition precludes it," Professor Dumbledore said, "My esteemed colleague is no doubt confident in what he was provided, however, he was not provided the full picture, and so I will show you that he is wrong in his assertion. When we have finished, you will be convinced that Harry James Potter is innocent of the charges, for he was not in Hogsmeade—"
"Objection!" Hamlin said.
"It is up to you to prove it otherwise," Professor Dumbledore said.
"We will decide that," Minister Fallerschain said, "Mr. Hamlin, please proceed."
Harry wasn't certain if he read both of them correctly, only that a glance from the Minister silenced the Headmaster's pending objection.
Hamlin's hand steadied his peruke over his combed hair as he stood back up.
"The prosecution calls Justin Finch‑Fletchley," Hamlin said.
"Peter," Minister Fallerschain asked of Percy, "If you may?"
Harry glanced past Hermione and Gia, at Ron, noticed the quiver as they both were silent as they issued the charm.
"Percy's a suck up!" Ron thought.
"Pay attention," Harry retorted, "Somebody might spill something they shouldn't."
"Good plan," Ron replied.
"What are you—" Hermione started.
"Shh!" Ron said to her.
Percy returned from the door, escorted the teenager, Justin Finch–Fletchley into the room with his Hufflepuff Hogwarts school uniform on display. Justin Finch–Fletchley glared at Harry before he took the witness chair, to the other side of the arena, on the other side of Minister Fallerschain, in full view of the Wizengamot.
"Will you please state your name and occupation for the record?" Hamlin asked.
"Justin Finch–Fletchley, sixth year student at Hogwarts."
"Why don't they swear—?" Harry whispered.
"Veritaserum," Hermione whispered.
"Silence!" the Minister ordered at them.
"Can you please describe the events on Saturday in your own words?" Hamlin asked.
"It was awful—" Justin Finch–Fletchley started.
"Objection!" Dumbledore said.
"Sustained," Minister Fallerschain said, "Please let the Wizengamot form that opinion, Mr. Finch–Fletchley."
"Start from the beginning," Hamlin said.
"Ernie—I mean Mr. Macmillan, and I went into the Three Broomsticks," Justin Finch–Fletchley said, "Some first years were being jovial trading farts with Potter. Madam Rosmerta scolded Potter for giving beer to the first years. Potter exploded, backed by his friends—I heard him use the Cruciatus Curse on Rosmerta before they pushed their way out of the pub. Screaming, I tried to leave, but everybody wanted out. By the time I had gotten out, Weasley was already kicking Ernie in the crotch, there was blood over the snow, and that first year he had been friendly with—was bound up in ropes."
Harry turned his gaze to Justin Finch–Fletchley, sensed the sincerity within, knew Justin to at least believe in what he was saying.
"We know this isn't easy for you," Hamlin said, "Go on."
"Others came out to try to stop Potter and his gang," Justin Finch–Fletchley said, "Kevin Whitby was already bound in ropes while Potter kept beating on him. Potter's bitch—being a muggle and all—she punched Laura Madley while Granger used a Cruciatus Curse at her! Another man, slender, ran out from Gladrags, and Potter responded with the Killing Curse. They attacked Professor Sprout. Neville Longbottom tried to reason, got attacked. Potter propelled something metal, missed a third year, instead killed another man. It was brutal."
"Students tried to reason with Potter?" Hamlin asked.
"Yes," Justin Finch–Fletchley said, "Some were too chicken or too ineffective to help—like Malfoy or Crabbe or Seamus—"
"Identities are not—" Hamlin started.
"Objection," Professor Dumbledore said, "Identities—"
"Hamlin is prosecuting," Minister Fallerschain said, "Reserve that for cross examination."
"How did this end?" Hamlin asked Justin Finch–Fletchley.
"It was mayhem," Justin Finch–Fletchley said, "Professors Tonks and Lupin tried to, but it was the Ministry Aurors that showed up and put a stop to it, stunned the terrible gang."
"So," Hamlin said, "Could you please point out the perpetrators?"
"Objection—!" Professor Dumbledore started.
"Overruled," Minister Fallerschain snapped.
"Can you please identify the alleged perpetrators?" Hamlin asked.
Justin Finch–Fletchley nodded. He pointed to Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia.
Harry glanced up, spotted Ernie Macmillan and Dean Thomas whispering between each other before their eyes returned to Justin Finch–Fletchley.
"Your turn," Hamlin said to the Headmaster.
Eyes of the Wizengamot fell onto Dumbledore.
"We appreciate your help Mr. Finch–Fletchley," Professor Dumbledore said, "When was the last time you saw Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, or Miss. Prescott before this incident?"
"Objection," Hamlin said.
"Sustained," Minister Fallerschain said.
"When did you first see any of these four Saturday morning?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"When I entered the Three Broomsticks," Justin Finch–Fletchley said.
"Am I correct in understanding you did not see any of them before you entered the Three Broomsticks," Professor Dumbledore asked, "On that Saturday?"
"Yes," Justin Finch–Fletchley replied.
"Did you see any of them on Friday prior—?" Professor Dumbledore started.
"Objection," Hamlin said.
"Sus—" Minister Fallerschain started.
Harry caught the Minister's glances around at a member of the Wizengamot, Umbridge was shaking her head.
"—overruled," the Minister corrected himself.
"No," Justin Finch–Fletchley said.
"And on Thursday—two days prior?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"Objection!" Hamlin exclaimed.
"The Headmaster is free to make this trial more expedient," the Minister said, "Objection overruled."
"No," Justin Finch–Fletchley said.
"Did you see any of them Wednesday the twentieth?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"No," Justin Finch–Fletchley said.
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Redirect," Hamlin said, "Mr. Finch–Fletchley, isn't Hogwarts a big castle?"
"Yes," Justin Finch–Fletchley said.
"So," Hamlin asked, "Could you have simply missed Potter on those days?"
"If I could help it, yes," Justin Finch–Fletchley said, "Potter's become a big jerk as of late—"
"Objection—" Professor Dumbledore said.
"Stick to the question," Minister Fallerschain warned.
"I'm through," Hamlin said, "Unless my esteemed colleague…" The man turned to the Headmaster and the shaking head. "You are free to return to Hogwarts now, or to stay and watch."
Justin Finch–Fletchley got up, went up into the crowd of students.
"The prosecution now calls Nymphadora Tonks," Hamlin said, "Mr. Weasley—I mean Percy Weasley, if you could?"
Percy got up, went to the door.
"I remind the Wizengamot that the witness list was shortened for expediency," the Minister said, "Copies of written full witness statements are in your packets."
Percy returned with Professor Tonks. She shook her purple hair as she walked across the stone floor of the courtroom to the witness chair. She sat.
"Please state your full name for the record," Hamlin said.
"Nymphadora Andromeda Tonks," Professor Tonks said.
"What is your occupation?" Hamlin asked.
"Auror for the Ministry," Professor Tonks said, "However, I am currently taking an extended sabbatical to teach Defense Against the Dark Arts at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry."
"You must enjoy that," Hamlin asked, "Were you at Hogsmeade on Saturday? If so, could you elaborate as to what happened?"
"Yes I was and I did see that horrific event," Professor Tonks said, "Remus and—"
"Remus?" Hamlin asked.
"Professor Remus Lupin who also teaches Defense Against the Dark Arts," Professor Tonks said, "We had gone to the Hogs Head for some drinks. After a half pint of lager, we heard screams from outside, so we immediately hurried outside. We ran up to the main road where we saw people who looked like Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, and Miss…er..future Mrs. Potter—"
Harry caught her eyes, ones that delighted at him blushing red to the thought.
"—attacking a group of people," Professor Tonks continued, "Remus and I tried to intervene, however, the arrival of Ministry Aurors helped to quell the incident. We stunned them before we took them to temporary holding cells in the Three Broomsticks."
"What happened after that?" Hamlin asked.
"I needed a stiff drink!" Professor Tonks said, "And Madam Rosmerta insisted I take a mug of Port, so I indulged her. An hour or two later, there was an explosion and smoke filled the Three Broomsticks. After the air cleared, the iron was wrought open, they had escaped. I tried to help in the hunt, to no avail."
"If you've left the Ministry," Hamlin asked, "Why help them?"
"I'm on a sabbatical, still, you can leave the Ministry, but being an Auror doesn't leave you," Professor Tonks said, "After a crime of this nature, I felt obligated to assist until the situation was under control, or so I thought until the end."
"Thank you Ms. Tonks," Hamlin said, "Your chance, Headmaster."
"Nymphadora," Professor Dumbledore said, "How long was it from their capture to their escape?"
"Several hours, I think," said Professor Tonks, "I didn't check my watch."
"Did you check for disguises?" Professor Dumbledore asked, "Were they under the influence—"
"Objection!" Hamlin said, "This is getting ridiculous!"
"Sustained," Fallerschain said.
"Final question," Professor Dumbledore said, "Can you please note Mr. Potter's attendance of your lessons for the three days before this incident?"
"Yes," Professor Tonks said, "Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, and Miss. Granger missed the lessons that were scheduled for Wednesday and Friday. Also, Hagrid complained to me about them missing their Thursday Care of Magical Creatures lesson."
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Redirect," Hamlin asked, "Has any of them missed a lesson before? Any?"
"Yes," Professor Tonks said, "However, that's when they were suspended—or one of Professor Snape's—"
"Thank you for your time," Hamlin said, "No further questions. We now call Seamus Finnigan."
Harry watched as Percy brought in the sixth year Gryffindor, in his Hogwarts uniform. Harry's eyes protested, surveyed the benches instead. Some faces, especially of the students, he already knew, most others, he did not. However, he spotted Rita Skeeter taking notes, and another few faces he had recalled seeing in The Daily Prophet recently. Harry glanced at Ron.
"Blimey!" Ron thought, "They're really laying it on thick!"
"You and me both," Harry retorted.
"Sure, I saw Potter," Finnigan said, "Him, there—" he pointed, "Beating the crap out of people, not everybody made it. Though, why he was trying to whoo over a first year, haven't a clue."
"Thank you," Hamlin said, "That is all."
"Mr. Finnigan—" Professor Dumbledore said.
"If you had been doing your job, none of this would've happened," Finnigan seethed, "Why you're still in charge of Hogwarts, I do not know, nor respect, sir."
"Thank you Mr. Finnigan," the Minister said.
"Prosecution calls upon Ewell Mitch."
Percy brought in a young lady dressed in black. Handkerchief in her hand mopped the tears from her eyes as she sat in the witness chair.
"I know this is a difficult time for you, the sympathies of the Wizengamot are with you." Hamlin said, "Please state your name."
"Ewell Mitch."
"Your relation to Adam Mitch?" Hamlin asked, "Family?"
"Adam was my husband for five years." Mitch said, "We have two sons, Rugby and Telford; I'm pregnant."
"Your magical status?" Hamlin asked, "Adam Mitch's?"
"I'm pureblood witch, born as Ewell Temple." Mitch said, "Adam is Muggleborn."
"Occupation?" Hamlin asked.
"None, I stayed at home," Mitch said, "Adam and I agreed it'd be best for the kids."
"Minister," Professor Dumbledore said, "the fact that Ewell Mitch is grieving is besides the point of this trial; that is apparent to all concerned. If she has nothing of further relevance—"
"That is for me to decide," the Minister said, "Hamlin, do you have anything further of relevance?"
"No," Hamlin replied.
"I want the murderers kissed!" Mitch exclaimed.
"Mrs. Mitch," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Do you want innocent people kissed instead?"
"No," Mitch said, "I want these culprits kissed!"
"Dumbledore!" Minister Fallerschain exclaimed.
"I am about to show these four are innocent," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Would you still want them kissed?"
"Dumbledore!" the Minister said, "This line of questioning is out of bounds! Suffice it to say, innocent parties are not to be kissed!"
"No Professor Dumbledore," Mitch said, "I would not. In The Daily Prophet—"
"Thank you Mrs. Mitch," Minister Fallerschain said, "You are excused."
"My dear Wizengamot," said Hamlin, now pacing on the stone in front of them, "You've heard the witnesses, you've read their statements in preparation for today. It is unequivocable that Harry James Potter orchestrated this mess. You've seen the impact it's had on a widow who now has to explain to her children why their father is never coming home. You know what you must do, to protect the Wizarding World from this spoiled brat. The prosecution rests."
"Ten minutes," the Minister said.
"So, Professor—?" Hermione whispered.
"Unusually reasonable," the Headmaster said, "That's a pleasant surprise."
"We're doomed," Ron thought to Harry, "If I witnessed that, I'd want us kissed too!"
"It's not over until the fat lady sings," Harry retorted.
"There's going to be singing?" Ron stammered in his mind, "They're bringing the fat lady painting here?"
"Muggle figure of speech," Harry replied in thought, "Sorry Ron."
"Here's your opportunity to make a fool out of yourself," Minister Fallerschain said to the Headmaster a few minutes later.
"Truth is never foolish, especially in light of charges that would see underage wizards kissed," Professor Dumbledore said, "The defense calls Professor Severus Snape."
Percy had only shifted his weight, didn't even make it to standing, before Professor Snape entered the courtroom. Black robes billowed as he walked over, to stand in front of the witness chair, however, he remained standing.
"The chair is technically optional," said Minister Fallerschain.
"Please state your name and occupation for the record," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Severus Tobias Snape. Potions master at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."
"Were you teaching on the Wednesday prior to the Hogsmeade incident?" Professor Dumbledore said, "If so, what? And did anything happen as a result? Please elaborate."
"Yes," Professor Snape said, "I had a full day lesson planned for the sixth years to teach the brewing of Veritaserum—a difficult brew. Potter instigated a fight with Malfoy, you suspended him."
"Please describe vecturaveneficum for the Wizengamot," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Objection—" Hamlin started.
"Overruled," Minister Fallerschain said, "I failed my Potions OWL."
A brief murmur went through the courtroom from members of the Wizengamot.
"Under the influence of the poison vecturaveneficum a wizard may not travel by magical means such as apparation, a Portkey, or even the Floo Network," Professor Snape said, "It's a sentence that can only end when the antidote has been administered."
"It's a poison?" Hamlin asked.
"You're out of line," the Minister said to Hamlin.
"I forgive his transgression," Professor Dumbledore said, "Severus, did you brew vecturaveneficum recently?
"Yes," Professor Snape said.
"What became of this recent brew?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"The poison was given to Potter, Weasley, and Granger as part of their suspension," Professor Snape said.
"When did you next see Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, or Miss Granger—after the suspension started," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Why? And where was the encounter?"
Harry caught the glances of the Wizengamot toward Professor Snape's expressionless face.
"Saturday, upon your request to find Potter immediately after the incident in Hogsmeade," Professor Snape said, "I found Potter and Weasley outside a Muggle brothel near Les Pierre, France."
Skeeter's hand scribbled fast across the parchment, her Quick Quotes Quill momentarily yielded.
"Where in France is this?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"This establishment of ill–repute is located at the base of the Alps," Professor Snape said.
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said.
"What was the nature of the fight?" Hamlin asked.
"Irrelevant," Professor Snape said, "Potter always picks on Malfoy."
"Was the one day suspension satisfactory?" Hamlin asked, "What was your preferred punishment?"
"The suspension was for seven days," Professor Snape said, "I had asked for expulsion."
"Did the suspects attempt magical transportation during their suspension?" Hamlin asked.
"Do you have an objection?" Minister Fallerschain asked Professor Dumbledore.
"No," Professor Dumbledore said.
Harry caught the glance of Hamlin over at the defense table. Harry sensed the sincerity within Hamlin, one who felt like he was doing the right thing.
"They would be dead if they had tried anything beyond an ordinary broom," Professor Snape said, "Vecturaveneficum does not inhibit magical transport, but ensures it is fatal to do so."
"There's some fine print for you there, Harry," Ron thought.
"Could they have taken an antidote and not informed you?" Hamlin asked.
"No," Professor Snape said, "The vecturaveneficum and the antidote must be brewed together. If I had misplaced the antidote, they would have no recourse, would be doomed to muggle means of transport."
"No further questions," Hamlin said.
"Redirect," Professor Dumbledore said, "Was Mr. Potter aware of the details of vecturaveneficum?"
"Doubtful," Professor Snape said, "Vecturaveneficum is an Auror grade potion that is not taught at Hogwarts."
"Thank you." Professor Dumbledore paused as Professor Snape dutifully left. "Defense calls former Minister for Magic, Cornelius Fudge."
Harry caught the heads that turned, ones that watched Cornelius Fudge enter the courtroom. Dressed in a pinstriped green suit and a bowler hat, Fudge sat in the chair.
"Please state your name for the record," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Cornelius Oswald Fudge."
"Were you summoned to Hogwarts a week ago Wednesday?" Professor Dumbledore said, "If so, please describe."
"Yes," Fudge said, "You had summoned me because you wanted a witness. When I got into the Headmaster's Office at Hogwarts, I was informed that Harry Potter and his lot were being suspended for a week on grounds of self–defense—"
"Rubbish," Minister Fallerschain said, "And it's just a day—"
"Rubbish or not," Professor Dumbledore said, "The board of governors required me to suspend regardless of fault for a day—I elected to extend that suspension to a week. Continue Cornelius."
"We used Floo Powder to go to the house of Hermione Granger," said Fudge, "Professor Snape produced the vecturaveneficum where it was duly administered to Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, and Hermione Granger."
"Are these correct? If so, describe," Professor Dumbledore handed up three sheets of parchment. "These are defense exhibits one, two, and three."
"Yes," Fudge said, "It testifies that we did, under penalty of perjury, attest to the administration of vecturaveneficum to Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, and Hermione Granger. They acknowledged that they would not attempt to use magical transport and that it would be a binding magical contract until they drank the antidote."
Harry glanced at Ron and Hermione, neither returned it.
"It then goes on to state that they consumed the antidote this morning," Fudge said, "About ten to fifteen minutes before the start of this trial."
"Where was the consumption?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"At Hermione Granger's house," Fudge said.
"Which, for the record, is south of London," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Right?"
"Yes," Fudge said.
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Do you know where Potter or his friends were between these times?" Hamlin asked.
"No," Fudge said.
"So," Hamlin asked, "Between Wednesday of last week and this morning, you did not know where they were? Could they have been in London? Edinburgh? Hogsmeade?"
"Yes," Fudge said, "Anywhere."
"No further questions," Hamlin said.
"Redirect," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Did you go to Hogsmeade during those times? If so, did you notice anything unusual?"
"Yes," Fudge said, "Surrounding Hogsmeade and Hogwarts were stationed many Demeantors, something that would have made approach difficult for Potter."
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said, "The defense now calls Gary Turner."
Fudge left while Gary Turner came in. In his ski suit, Gary Turner sat at the chair.
"Please state your full name and occupation for the record," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Gary Allen Turner, ski instructor in Les Pierre, France."
"On Thursday the twenty first," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Did you provide lessons? If so, to whom?"
"Yes," Gary Turner said, "I didn't get their names at first—they are sitting there—" he pointed to Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Gia "—but two are missing."
"How was their skiing?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"Objection!" Hamlin said.
"Sustained," Minister Fallerschain said.
"Did you see them after those lessons, before coming here today?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"Yes," Gary Turner said, "Repeatedly they were on the slopes, several times a day. I saw the black haired kid try a snowboard—he seemed talented."
"Are you aware of the incident surrounding his current injuries?" Professor Dumbledore asked, "Please elaborate."
"Yes," Gary Turner said, "As I understand it, yesterday morning, he skied down a trail that was closed because it had become extremely hazardous."
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Can you testify to where they were at ten in the morning on Saturday?" Hamlin asked.
"I had seen them throughout the day," Gary Turner said, "As to the time—one loses track of that on the slopes."
"I will record that as a no'," Hamlin said, "Nothing further."
"Redirect." Professor Dumbledore handed up a photograph to Turner. "Defense exhibit four. Please study the picture. Can you re–answer the prosecutor's question?"
"Yes, this clears up a lot," Gary Turner said, "It's from the security system, it's me passing three of them at five minutes to eleven, French time, on Saturday—I think the red head was hungry again."
"Thank you," Dumbledore said, "Defense calls Minerva McGonagall."
Harry caught the eyes of Percy perusing the picture of them entering the cafe at the resort; Harry picked up the sense of amusement that Percy fought from expressing. Percy secured it into the folder as Professor McGonagall entered the courtroom. Sweeping emerald green robes, the professor sat in the witness chair.
"Please state your name and occupation for the record," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Minerva Margaret McGonagall, I am the deputy Headmistress at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry."
"Between Wednesday of last week and this morning," Professor Dumbledore said, "Please elaborate on what you know on the whereabouts of Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, and Miss. Prescott."
"Objection—" Hamlin said.
"Overruled," the Minister said.
"I was summoned Wednesday afternoon to the Headmaster's Office," Professor McGonagall said, "Upon entry, I had learned that there was a serious incident where Mr. Malfoy had apparently been trying to kill spiders for his potion—he had used the Killing Curse, inadvertently sending it to Mr. Potter. Suffice it to say, the resulting commotion required that Mr. Potter be suspended. Professor Dumbledore extended that period by a week. I helped to escort them to Miss. Granger's house south of London where we administered that hideous poison. Unbeknownst to them, I had followed them in my Animagus form that evening though their town, until they got into a Muggle flying aeroplane. Once that aeroplane started to fly, it went east and did not stray. I then returned to Hogwarts.
"After that, I did not see nor hear about Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, or Miss. Prescott being near or around Hogwarts until this incident on Saturday. After the incident, I traveled to Les Pierre myself and confirmed that Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, and Miss. Prescott were still there skiing; none of them knew anything about the incident until I had informed them. I investigated at the resort and then returned to Hogwarts.
"Apart from that brief encounter on Saturday, I did not see Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, or Miss. Prescott until this morning."
"Can you state the time you saw them take off?" Professor Dumbledore handed over a receipt mounted on parchment. "This is defense exhibit five."
"A cat does not check their pocket watch." Professor McGonagall pointed to the first one. "This receipt is for the potion that Muggles use in their aeroplanes, at 1825 on Wednesday."
Professor Dumbledore handed over another mounted receipt. "This is defense exhibit six."
Professor McGonagall studied the receipt. "This is a receipt for the parking of their aeroplane in Les Pierre, from a few minutes before midnight on Wednesday the twentieth first through yesterday, Thursday. It was noted that the aeroplane did not move during that time."
Professor Dumbledore handed over a third mounted receipt, he ignored the glare from Minister Fallerschain. "This is defense exhibit seven."
"Aw," Professor McGonagall said, "This is the receipt from Mr. Potter's room reservation at the ski lodge, it adds in three footnotes. One, charge for the the ski lessons. Two, a one day extension—he originally planned on returning Wednesday, but delayed it a day. Third, a hefty charge room service—I think he will appreciate the service at Hogwarts."
A snicker came from one of the reporters.
Professor Dumbledore handed over a fourth mounted several page bill. "This is defense exhibit eight."
"Yes." Professor McGonagall looked over the bill. "As Mr. Potter ignored the trail markings, he was fined and then billed for his medical care from a Muggle institution, this is dated late yesterday—no wonder he was late this morning."
Professor Dumbledore handed over an album. "This is defense exhibit nine."
Harry watched Professor McGonagall leaf through the pages of the picture album, spotted her reaction at one picture of him banging Gia on the ski lift.
"This is an assorted pictures that Muggles took of themselves," Professor McGonagall said as she kept leafing through the album, "Some with a date and time—these ones include one or more of these defendants. There is this one on the ski slope at one minute past eleven, another toward the end of the ski slope—three minutes past eleven."
"Could Mr. Potter have the time to travel to Hogwarts?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"Objection—calls for a conclusion!" Hamlin said.
"Sustained," Minister Fallerschain said.
"The incident in Hogsmeade started at two minutes past ten," Professor Dumbledore asked, "Where was Mr. Potter then?"
"Skiing on the slopes in Les Pierre, France," Professor McGonagall said.
"Where was Mr. Potter at four minutes past ten?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"Objection!" Hamlin said, "Potter was clearly in Hogsmeade—"
"That is for the Wizengamot to decide," Professor Dumbledore said.
Minister Fallerschain glanced at the members of the Wizengamot.
"Overruled," the Minister said.
Professor Dumbledore handed over a handful of bagged lift tickets. "Defense exhibits ten, eleven, twelve, and thirteen."
"Right here," Professor McGonagall said, "At four past eleven, French time, which is four past ten in Hogsmeade, Mr. Potter had his lift ticket stamped—he was getting on the lift for another run."
"At half past ten?" Professor Dumbledore asked.
"Both Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley were going onto the lift," Professor McGonagall said, "Again."
"No further questions," Professor Dumbledore said.
"Professor McGonagall," Hamlin asked, "For how many years have you been teaching at Hogwarts?"
"I came onto staff in December of 1956," Professor McGonagall said.
"Forty years, that takes dedication," Hamlin asked, "Are students suspended often?"
"Typically it is a rare event to actually suspend a student," Professor McGonagall said, "Normally, a threat is made of either suspension or expulsion, and then the student either corrects his behavior or the threat is carried out."
"Detention is a step below that?" Hamlin asked.
"Yes," Professor McGonagall said, "Most punishments are simply that, detention."
"How many of these detentions are considered fun for the students?" Hamlin asked.
"None that I can recall," Professor McGonagall said.
"So," Hamlin asked, "Was this suspension really a punishment?"
"Objection!" Professor Dumbledore said.
"Overruled," Minister Fallerschain said, "Get to the point."
"An out‑of‑school suspension is simply that, out of school," Professor McGonagall said, "Our authority ends at the edge of the grounds, any student on an out‑of‑school suspension is unrestricted; however, we will judge their behavior should they decide to return."
"Couldn't Mr. Potter have Apparated to Hogsmeade in Muggle fashion?" Hamlin asked.
"Muggles cannot Apparate in any shape or form," Professor McGonagall said, "Mr. Potter's fastest option to Hogwarts or Hogsmeade was the Muggle aeroplane, which takes hours from that location."
"Could the Potter you saw at this resort be himself an impostor?" Hamlin asked.
"No," Professor McGonagall said, "I spoke with Mr. Potter upon my arrival at the resort—it was definitely the Mr. Potter I know from previous encounters."
"No further questions." Hamlin glared at Professor Dumbledore before he took his seat again.
"Thank you Minerva," Professor Dumbledore said, "Wizengamot, you'll notice more exhibits in the evidence, more photographs with a Gringotts evidence camera, documenting that Mr. Potter and his friends were indeed at the ski resort in question from the start of their suspension to yesterday morning, they did not stray. The defense rests."
"We will resume in ten minutes," the Minister said.
Harry glanced at Percy sorting through all the pictures.
"He's jealous," Ron thought, "But he's gotta play the part."
"Think that's good enough?" Hermione whispered.
"Time will tell," Ron whispered.
Minutes later, the Minister hammered on his gavel.
"Mr. Hamlin," Minister Fallerschain said, "You can make your closing argument."
"Members of the Wizengamot," Hamlin said, "Do not be fooled by their smoke and mirrors. Fact, Mr. Potter was indeed in Hogsmeade last Saturday. Fact, many people saw the defendants savagely assault and murder many innocent people—blood was spilled. The victims and their families deserve answers and deserve justice. Convict on the truth, convict to the principles of justice, convict to your conscience. Don't let more blood be spilled. It's about time for them to reap what they sowed."
"Headmaster," Minister Fallerschain said.
"Dear Wizengamot," Professor Dumbledore said, "We have four teenagers who clearly spent time on a holiday, and the prosecutor would have you believe they spent hours traveling from the French Alps to Hogsmeade to do what they are accused of? For those with underage wizards and witches at home, you know that would never happen—inebriate themselves, perhaps. We have clearly shown you that Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss. Granger, and Miss. Prescott were nowhere near Hogsmeade nor could they reach it in the time required. My advice to Mr. Hamlin is to keep looking, the culprits are still at large and are impersonating, framing the wrong parties. Acquit so the real perpetrators can be found. Any other outcome would be a miscarriage of justice that would rob four teenagers of their souls."
"The Wizengamot will consider their decisions," the Minister said as he rang his gavel, "I will ask for a vote in five minutes."
"This is infuriating," Hermione whispered.
"Patience," Professor Dumbledore replied.
Harry watched the members of the Wizengamot pouring over the pictures, the evidence.
"Alright," the Minister said, "Does any member need more time to consider their decision? The Leaky Cauldron's happy hour with half priced wings begins in fifteen minutes."
Heads shook.
"I remind everybody the verdict need not be unanimous," the Minister said, "All in favor of convicting, signify by raising your wand."
Umbridge and others raised their wands; the Minister raised his.
"Twenty four to convict," the Minister said, "All opposed?"
Amelia Bones was the first to raise her wand, others followed suit.
"Thirty six to clear," the Minister said, "Therefore, the verdict is that Harry James Potter, Ronald Bilius Weasley, Hermione Jane Granger, and Gia Marie Prescott are cleared of all charges. You are free to go. However, I do urge you to examine your actions that have precipitated this trial and apologize for the wrongs that you have done. I remind the reporters that you may ask either the Wizengamot or other parties for interviews in the Atrium, and no sooner."
The Minister banged his gavel.
"This trial stands adjourned," the Minister announced.
Noise grew as the Wizengamot left first, reporters and the students.
"What did happen?" Harry asked.
"A reasonably fair trial—a rarity," Professor Dumbledore said, "I must return to Hogwarts in time for dinner and a personal celebration; a place you attend as your suspension was already lifted."
They got up. Gia helped Harry limp out of the courtroom.
…
Ron spotted a glint of red hair in the edge of his vision at the lift.
"Sorry, left something behind," Ron said, "I'll catch up with you at the Atrium—been here before with my Dad."
Ron caught the Headmaster's penetrating state, kept his vision of a wand to the forefront. The headmaster smirked, escorted Harry, Gia, and Hermione into the lift. Ron waited until the lift went up out of view, before Percy caught up with him. Percy motioned, directed Ron into another lift.
After the lift doors closed, Percy drew out his wand. "Imperturbatus." The lift began to drift downward.
"A murder trial," Percy said, "You've outdone Gred and Feorge."
"They didn't need impostors," Ron replied.
"I know, they had each other," Percy said, "Quite a holiday with your girlfriend."
Ron grinned.
"Muggles have these machines that can fly," Ron said, "Dad would be jealous."
"Write him a letter, but that'd simply remind him," Percy said, "And so many unanswered questions about you."
"Skiing was great!" Ron said, "Should try it."
"I need to get back to work," Percy said, "I can't afford to be seen with you."
"Level Eleven," the voice announced, "Department of Audit and Legal Services."
Percy got out, and the lift went upward. Ron wondered what questions were being asked.
Ron held the Hogwarts Pins along with the two wands as he entered the Hospital Wing. Harry and Gia ahead of him, Hermione with him.
"My goodness!" exclaimed Madam Pomfrey,
"Broken limbs," Harry said as he sat on the bed, "Muggle doctors tried their best, but you can fix it, right?"
A wave of Madam Pomfrey's wand and the casts came off as Professor McGonagall entered.
"Hi," Harry said.
Professor McGonagall stood in front of Harry.
"Mr. Potter," Professor McGonagall said, "These were extensive injuries, may I know the cause?"
"Bullheaded—" Hermione started.
"Miss. Granger," Professor McGonagall said, "I asked Mr. Potter."
"Skiing accident," Harry said, "Nothing major."
Hermione crossed her arms.
"Regardless of that," Professor McGonagall said, "You three have missed a lot of recent studies. It'd be wise if you spent this weekend catching up where you can. Professor Flitwick has agreed to let you rejoin your Charms lessons."
"What made him—?" Hermione asked.
"Better not to ask," Professor McGonagall said, "If you excuse me, it'd be embarrassing if Professor Dumbledore beat me to—never mind."
Professor McGonagall turned around, left.
"What's that about?" Ron asked.
"Don't be so nosy," Hermione said.
"How much longer?" Gia asked Madam Pomfrey.
"It's supposed to be a private session!" Madam Pomfrey said.
"We're to make sure he complies with your recommendations," Ron said.
"Out, out!" Madam Pomfrey said as the privacy curtain marched around Harry.
"Alright, we'll be over here," Ron said as he moved to another bed.
Ron sat on it. Ron handed a Hogwarts Pin to Hermione.
"I'm guessing it'll be a while," Ron said, "I'll wait it out."
"We're sticking around," Hermione said.
"We'd like some answers to certain questions," Nymphadora Tonks said to the rhythm of Albus Dumbledore's cane as he entered the back room of the Hogs Head in Hogsmeade. Albus Dumbledore sat at the modest table, along with the others.
Remus Lupin sniffed at the sheppard's pie that was next to the ham roast.
"After we are well fed and watered," said Albus Dumbledore.
"Aurors at the Ministry are about to stage a revolt over the verdict," Shacklebolt said, "They believe that Potter was caught red handed and that we conjured up lies to cover up—they are furious."
"There was no cover up," McGonagall said, "I inquired and uncovered what Potter was really doing at the time in question—"
"Personally, I do not doubt your integrity," Shacklebolt said, "Nor do they hold you responsible, but they believe you are being manipulated—"
"I do want to know," Fred Weasley asked, "What was going on?"
"Given what you've all put on the line in haste, you deserve to know the reasoning behind Mr. Potter's alibis," Albus Dumbledore asked, "Remus, could you start us off?"
"Yes." Lupin sipped a bit of Firewhiskey. "We suspected the duplicity for some time, but had confirmation at the start of this month when Hermione was abducted from her dormitory. With the real Harry and Ron with me, we found two individuals that bore their likeness—impostors, tormenting her. Unfortunately, they disapparated before we could apprehend them, however, their likeness was spot on."
"That explains a lot," Fred said.
"It confirmed what we had suspected," said Albus Dumbledore, "On numerous occasions, including your Halloween party, an incident would occur with their likeness when I knew they were not around."
"So, we laid the trap?" Shacklebolt asked.
"We were hoping to catch them," said Lupin, "Failing that, a solid alibis."
"One which showed they were not here last weekend," McGonagall said, "Albus, you knew they were going to attack?"
"I didn't anticipate murder," Albus Dumbledore said, "A regrettable price that would've been more palatable if the impostors hadn't of escaped."
"With good fortune," McGonagall said, "This should temper the attitudes of the students—"
"—are spoiled brats!" Finnigan shouted to the crowd in the Gryffindor Common Room, "While we toiled away cleaning their messes—they were skiing! Ski a slope here, murder a jerk there, hop over to Hogsmeade and get off a round or two before another round of drinks in the snow!"
"If they were banging in the snow," Ginny asked, "Why go to Hogsmeade?"
"That's if you believe their tripe," Thomas said, "Just because the prosecutor or the minister fails to convince the Wizengamot doesn't mean they didn't do it—just that Dumbledore ambushed them with his trickery."
"Potter should've spent more on his escape," Finnigan said, "Clear from his casts he didn't make it out in one piece."
"Don't you think you're getting ahead of yourself?" Neville said.
"You want to wait until Potter determines you're not a werewolf after a stake goes through your heart?" Macmillan said, "They were squirming because they got caught—they're still guilty as far as I'm concerned. Wonder how many Galleons Potter is short on?"
"It's like who the bloody hell would even bother to impostor those jerks—?" Justin Finch–Fletchley asked.
"I told you to verify Potter's suspensions!" the Keeper said to the Seeker, "Will you explain your failings to our Lord or should I have Dumbledore send him your used ointment bottles—postage due?"
"No, no—that will not be necessary," the Seeker said, "Some alibis—"
"Keep a closer eye on them!" the Keeper said, "We cannot have a repeat. Though we can spin your blunder to our advantage."