As Henry Gauntus stepped forward to represent him, Harry's mind raced with questions. Namely, had Tom Riddle disguised himself to help him or hinder his trial. Harry wanted to trust him, and after so long sharing a dream space Harry had felt Tom's growth, but even Harry wasn't sure how far his trust went.

He knew what Tom Riddle had been like before he'd stepped out the Diary, and he knew exactly the monster Tom Riddle had once grown up to become. But Ginny's stolen magic had subtly changed this Tom's personality, which left him in a questionable state.

A state which Harry had no time to work through as Fudge steamrolled onwards. "The charges against the accused are as follows: 'That he did knowingly, and in full awareness of the illegality of his actions, produce a Patronus charm in the presence of a muggle.' Do you deny producing said Patronus?"

"I deny producing said Patronus." Harry replied clearly, ensuring his voice easily carried through the chamber.

Fudge's expression darkened at Harry's response, his thin lips curling into a sneer. "Denial noted," he acknowledged, gesturing vaguely towards Percy. "Let the record show that the accused denies the charges.

"And, were you aware that you were forbidden to use magic outside school while under the age of seventeen?"

Here, Tom stepped forward, holding up a hand. "Objection, Minister Fudge," He interjected smoothly.

"The question posed by the prosecution assumes facts not in evidence. There has been no testimony or evidence presented so far to establish that Mr. Potter did indeed perform magic in front of a Muggle, and as such Mr. Potter's knowledge of the relevant laws are irrelevant."

Fudge's sneer deepened, but he inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment of Tom's objection. "Sustained," he grumbled reluctantly.

"Very well, I call Mafalda Hopkirk to the stand, to give testimony from the Improper Use of Magic Office, who on the 2nd of August, of this year, received intelligence via The Trace that the accused had once again used magic in his Muggle Hometown."

Clearly uncertain, the newly identified Mafalda Hopkirk hesitantly made her way forward, standing beside Harry near the centre of the room, casting a nervous glance around as she awaited further instruction.

"We'll need a chair for the witness," Fudge instructed, his voice carrying across the room, as Percy Weasley hesitantly looked around, then sprang into action, hurriedly bringing a dusty chair to the middle of the chamber. With a slight stumble, he set it down beside Harry's chair, gesturing for Mafalda to take her seat.

Reluctantly, Mafalda settled into the chair, adjusting her spectacles nervously as she prepared to give her testimony before the court.

"For our records, please state your name and occupation within the Ministry." Fudge commanded down to her.

Following Fudge's command, Mafalda straightened her posture, touching her spectacles again before addressing the court. "My name is Mafalda Hopkirk, and I serve as a clerk in the Improper Use of Magic Office," she replied shakily.

"And can you confirm the details of the intelligence you received and how it pertains to the charges against Mr. Potter?"

"I can." She replied, seemingly to wilt further under the Minister's intense gaze, "I received two warnings of the use of a Patronus Charm, both registered within proximity of the Muggle home Mr. Pot- the accused is known to have grown up within."

"And is this the first time you've received notice of the trace in regards to Mr. Potter's Muggle Home?"

"It is not. In the Summer of 1992, I sent a letter of warning to his home address, on the count of multiple levitation charms."

"Thank you, the court has no further questions for the witness." Fudge dismissed, "Now, Mr. Potter, do you deny receiving this first letter, from your first infraction upon our most sacred of laws?"

As Harry opened his mouth to respond, he felt a surge of frustration at the unfolding events. However, before he could utter a word, Tom Riddle stepped forward once more, his presence commanding attention.

"Minister Fudge, if I may interject," Tom spoke up, again moving to stand in front of Harry.

Fudge's gaze flickered toward Tom, a glimmer of irritation evident in his eyes. "Yes, Mr. Gauntus, what is it now?" he snapped.

Tom continued, unfazed by Fudge's brusque manner. "I must object to the relevance of the previous warning letter, Minister," Tom stated firmly.

"The incident in question occurred three years ago, and the circumstances surrounding it are not directly related to the charges Mr. Potter faces today. Bringing up past infractions serves only to prejudice the court against my client and distract from the matter at hand."

Fudge smiled sardonically, even as his lips thinned into a scowl. "I understand your objection, Mr. Gauntus, but I believe there is merit in revisiting past incidents," he retorted condescendingly. "The accused's history of disregarding magical law is relevant to understanding his character and propensity for repeat offences. Therefore, I overrule your objection. Mr. Potter, you may proceed with your answer."

Getting a reluctant nod from Tom, Harry straightened in his seat, determined to clarify the misunderstanding.

"Minister Fudge, if I may," Harry began, his voice steady despite the tension in the courtroom. "I did not receive any such warning letter from the Ministry regarding the levitation charms in 1992."

Fudge's scowl deepened at Harry's assertion. "Are you suggesting, Mr. Potter, that the Ministry failed to properly deliver a warning notice to your home?"

Harry met Fudge's gaze squarely. "I'm merely stating the facts, Minister," he replied evenly. "I cannot confirm whether such a warning notice was delivered properly, as I was not present at my home address at the time it was allegedly sent."

The crowds murmuring rippled through the chamber at Harry's revelation, prompting Fudge to raise a hand for silence. "And may I inquire, Mr. Potter, as to your whereabouts in the immediate aftermath of the delivery of your letter? Considering it would have been dispatched immediately following the incident involving the levitation charm?"

"I was onboard the Knight Bus," Harry responded easily, "and from there, I did not return to Privet Drive until the 12th of this month of this year, shortly before the alleged incident involving the Patronus charm."

"Ah, yes, the infamous Knight Bus," Fudge remarked sarcastically. "Convenient timing, wouldn't you say, Mr. Potter? Just a brief jaunt on the Knight Bus to evade the consequences of your actions?"

"Objection, Minister Fudge," Tom broke in again. "The prosecution's question is leading and suggestive, aiming to coerce the accused into self-incrimination. There is no evidence to support the assertion that Mr. Potter's use of the Knight Bus was motivated by any desire to evade consequences. As such, the question is improper and should be stricken from the record."

Madam Bones, who had been scrutinising the proceedings with a disapproving eye, spoke up. "I must concur with Mr. Gauntus," she stated firmly, her voice carrying authority. "The line of questioning is indeed leading and speculative, lacking a foundation in evidence."

Fudge hesitated for a moment, his scowl deepening as he considered Madam Bones' words. Reluctantly, he nodded, acknowledging the validity of the objection. "Very well," he conceded grudgingly. "Objection sustained."

Fudge's expression hardened as he focused his attention back on Harry. "But, Mr. Potter," he continued, "can you deny that you were aware, or at least suspected, that you would have received a warning for the offence of performing underage magic, on that date in 1992?"

"Objection, Minister Fudge," Tom rose again, his voice unable to fully hide his enjoyment.

"The prosecution is once again leading the witness and attempting to extract information that is speculative at best. There is no evidence to support the assertion that Mr. Potter had prior knowledge of a warning for underage magic. This line of questioning is not only improper but also unfair to the accused."

However, Fudge's scowl intensifies, and he dismisses Tom's objection with a wave of his hand. "Overruled, all school children after their first year of Hogwarts are specifically warned of our laws!" he declares sharply, his gaze fixed on Harry. "Mr. Potter, I must insist on an answer to the question. Were you aware, or suspected, of receiving a warning for underage magic in 1992? Or indeed expected that you would receive a warning."

"At the time of the event, I was in no state to expect any such thing," Harry replied carefully, slowly mulling over his thoughts, "And once the event was over, and I was able to receive advice on the event, it was assumed by myself and my advisor that the Ministry had investigated the event, and had concluded I was not responsible for the levitation charm, hence the lack of written warning."

Harry took some joy in seeing Fudge swell up with rage, but before the man could retort, the courtroom door burst open as Dumbledore strode inside, calling out; "Witness for the defence: Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore."

As Dumbledore strode into the courtroom, Fudge's expression shifted from one of irritation to one of bewilderment, as his mouth opened slightly as he stared incredulously at the unexpected entrance.

The courtroom broke out with more murmurs and whispers as the Wizengamot turned to look at Dumbledore, with some openly laughing at him.

Recovering from his initial shock and attempting to regain control of the situation, Fudge banged the gavel aggressively, his voice ringing out above the murmurs.

"What is the meaning of this, Dumbledore?" he demanded, his tone laced with indignation. "The post of witness for the defence has already been filled, by the Ministry appointed Henry Gauntus," Fudge began, waving the gavel at Tom, who'd frozen in barely concealed fear.

Dumbledore's eyes flashed with fire and recognition as he glanced at Tom, a silent exchange passing between them. However, he quickly masked his expression and turned his attention back to Fudge, his demeanour calm and composed.

"Ah, my apologies, Minister Fudge," Dumbledore said smoothly, his voice carrying a note of sincerity. "It seems there has been a misunderstanding. I had not realised a witness had already been assigned in my stead, especially on such short notice."

Fudge leaned back and smiled down at Dumbledore condescendingly, "Indeed. But as you can see, the witness has been assigned, and so I must ask you to leave the chamber.

"After all, you cannot simply waltz into a closed trial unannounced and expect to participate at your leisure," he added, his tone mocking. "This is an official Ministry proceeding, and we must adhere to protocol."

Dumbledore inclined his head in acknowledgment, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "Of course, Minister Fudge, I would not dream of overstepping my bounds," he responded. "However, as I am also here representing Harry's guardian, I feel it's necessary for me to remain to ensure he is properly represented."

Fudge's expression darkened at Dumbledore's assertion, clearly displeased with his insistence. He glanced around the chamber, seeking support from his fellow Wizengamot members, but found only a few nodding heads.

Many present hadn't forgotten Dumbledore's decade-long tenure as Chief Warlock before Fudge's actions led to his dismissal. While some now deemed Dumbledore as unsuitable to lead them, they still held respect for him, recognizing his past service if not fully embracing his current stance.

With a reluctant sigh, Fudge reluctantly conceded, "Very well, Mr. Dumbledore. You may remain as an observer, but I will not tolerate any further disruptions or attempts to interfere with the proceedings."

Dumbledore nodded graciously. "Thank you, Minister Fudge. Rest assured, I have no intention of causing disruptions. My presence is solely to ensure justice is served."

With that, Dumbledore moved to the row of chairs situated directly behind Harry, calmly settling into a seat and crossing his fingers, waiting.

Coughing, Fudge turned back to Harry, then glanced at Percy with a furrowed brow. "Percy, if you would kindly refresh my memory about the proceedings prior to our unexpected interruption," he requested, his tone tinged with annoyance.

Percy cleared his throat and adjusted his glasses before addressing Fudge. "Of course, Minister. Just before the interruption, Mr. Potter was denying any involvement in the levitation charm incident and expressing his lack of expectation regarding receiving a warning," he reminded, his tone respectful yet firm.

"Right… right! Could you explain to the court, Mr. Potter, how can you claim to not be responsible for the levitation charm in 1992, when it was cast at your residence, and no other wizard was recorded as being anywhere near the event at the time?"

Harry faced Fudge with a steady gaze. "Minister Fudge, the levitation charm in question was indeed performed, but not by any wizard. It was the work of a house-elf named Dobby," he stated confidently. "I had no knowledge of or control over Dobby's actions at the time."

"A house-elf in a Muggle household?" he echoed incredulously. "What business would a house-elf have in such a place, Mr. Potter? And more importantly, why would it be performing magic there?"

"Minister Fudge, I must object to the relevance of your line of questioning," Tom stated firmly, his tone measured but resolute. "The presence and actions of a house-elf in a Muggle household, while perhaps unconventional, still do not bear directly on the current charges against Mr. Potter. Furthermore, such speculation distracts from the core issue at hand and may prejudice the court against my client."

"Sustained." Fudge ground out, before switching to a different track.

"Very well, Mr. Potter," Fudge continued, his voice taking on a stern edge. "Let us return to the crux of the matter. Can you deny the allegations that you knowingly and unlawfully cast a Patronus Charm in front of a Muggle on the night of August 12th?"

"Minister Fudge," Harry began, as he squared his shoulders, "I categorically deny casting a Patronus Charm on the night in question. Since it was not I who performed the charm, but my Ministry-appointed bodyguard, Nymphadora Tonks."

Harry's words were met with a loud collective din from the assembled members of the Wizengamot, with some even jumping to their feet. Fudge's expression tightened further as he raised a hand and waited for the crowd to fall quiet as he considered Harry's defence.

"And you expect us to believe that your bodyguard, a Ministry employee, took it upon herself to cast a Patronus Charm in a Muggle-inhabited area without your knowledge or authorization?" Fudge countered, his tone once again laced with incredulity.

Madam Bones, noticeably frowning at Fudge, raised her own hand to halt further questioning from Fudge. "Minister Fudge, I must interject. On the night of the 12th of August, I personally debriefed Nymphadora Tonks' on the events that had transpired, which match the events as described by the accused."

As Madam Bones finished her statement, an elderly woman, sitting further along the Wizengamot members, rose from her seat with a determined expression. "Point of order, Minister Fudge," she called out in a no-nonsense tone.

Fudge sighed heavily but nodded in acknowledgment. "Very well, Dowager Longbottom," he conceded reluctantly, "Proceed."

"If the testimony of this Auror has already been received by the head of Department," Augusta began, her voice carrying a hint of frustration, "then what purpose does this trial serve? Why are we subjecting this seemingly innocent young man to questioning if the one responsible is already known by the Ministry?"

"Ah, yes, Dowager Longbottom, I understand your concern," Fudge replied, his tone attempting to strike a balance between empathy and authority.

"While the Ministry does possess information from Auror Tonks' report, it's essential to uphold the principles of transparency and due process in our justice system. We must ensure that all evidence is thoroughly examined in a formal setting, and the accused is given the opportunity to defend themselves before the Wizengamot."

"But why was this young man even accused, when it was blatantly clear to the Ministry he was at most a suspect in the event, and should have been approached as a witness? Where is Auror Tonks now, to present her report?" Dowager Longbottom pressed.

"Dowager Longbottom, while I appreciate your inquiry, the decision to proceed with this trial was made based on the complexity of the situation and the need for a thorough examination of all involved parties. Auror Tonks' report, while valuable, is just one piece of the puzzle.

"The Wizengamot must assess all available evidence and hear from witnesses directly to ensure a fair and comprehensive judgement. As for Auror Tonks, she remains on duty, and her presence will be requested when her testimony is required."

"Very well, do you have any further questions for the accused?" Tom broke in, drawing attention back to them.

"Indeed, Mr. Potter," Fudge resumed, his tone regaining some semblance of authority, "let us refocus our attention on the matter at hand. Can you provide any evidence or witnesses to corroborate your claim that Auror Tonks, rather than yourself, cast the Patronus Charm on the night in question?"

"I can only call one witness; my cousin, Dudley Dursley, who was the Muggle in question who saw the act of magic," Harry answered, unable to suppress a grin directed at Fudge.

Harry's response elicited a ripple of chuckles amongst the members of the Wizengamot, prompting Fudge to shoot a stern glare across the chamber.

"Silence!" Fudge commanded, his voice carrying authority as he quelled the laughter. "This is a court of law, and we shall treat all testimony with the respect it deserves."

Fudge then directed his attention back to Harry. "Mr. Potter, are you therefore acknowledging that the Statute of Secrecy was broken, by an act of magic being performed in front of a Muggle?"

"Objection, Minister Fudge," Tom interjected firmly. "The question assumes guilt on the part of the accused and leads the witness towards a predetermined conclusion. It also mischaracterizes the nature of the defence being presented by Mr. Potter."

Fudge's scowl deepened at Tom's objection. He shook his head with a dismissive wave of his hand. "Overruled," Fudge declared sharply, his gaze fixed on Harry. "Mr. Potter, I must insist on an answer to the question. Are you acknowledging that the Statute of Secrecy was broken?"

"I acknowledge that my cousin saw magic performed," Harry began, only for Fudge to bang the gavel and cut him off abruptly.

"So, you admit it then!" Fudge interjected forcefully, attempting to talk over Harry's response, ready to twist the acknowledgment into an admission of guilt. "Members of the court, you have heard today that Mr. Potter woefully and-"

"I however do not acknowledge that the statute of secrecy-" Harry tried to continue, using a touch of magic to make his voice clearly heard over Fudge.

"Mr. Potter, you will not interrupt me in my courtroom!" Fudge thundered, his face turning red with indignation as he pounded the gavel on the podium. "I will not tolerate such disrespect!"

But Harry persisted, his voice ringing out clearly despite Fudge's attempts to silence him. "I do not acknowledge that the statute of secrecy was broken by any action of myself or Auror Tonks on that day!"

Fudge's face twisted with anger, his grip tightening around the gavel, causing uneasy glances to be passed among the members of the Wizengamot.

"Enough!" Fudge's voice thundered, the sound echoing off the chamber walls. "You will show respect in this courtroom, Potter, or face the consequences."

At the Minister's words, the chamber fell into a tense silence, with Madam Bones glaring openly at the Minister.

Beside him, Tom stood calmly, his voice soft but firm as it cut through the charged atmosphere. "Minister Fudge, surely we can resolve this matter with civility and respect for due process. Mr. Potter is well within his rights to assert his innocence, and his answers should be heard without interruption."

"Quite right!" Dowager Longbottom interjected, her voice commanding attention as she addressed Fudge. "What I would like to inquire about is the reason behind the repeated use of a Patronus Charm."

Fudge, seizing the opportunity to regain control of the proceedings, cleared his throat before responding, "Ah, Dowager Longbottom, your concern is duly noted. However, the use of a Patronus Charm for communication is a known tactic employed by Albus Dumbledore and his followers.

"One cannot help but wonder, given the circumstances, whether the use of such a charm was a calculated risk taken by someone who felt they could act with impunity, or perhaps, someone who underestimated the vigilance of the Ministry."

"Actually, the charm was cast to repel the Dementors," Harry replied casually, ensuring his voice carried across the courtroom.

"Dementors? In Little Whinging?" Madam Bones interjected, her brow furrowing in disbelief.

"That's quite clever, Muggles can't see Dementors, can they, boy? Highly convenient," Fudge remarked, his tone dripping with scepticism.

"Excuse me, Minister, but I'm not quite sure how this could be considered; 'convenient'." Lord Greengrass called down, speaking up for the first time.

Fudge's gaze flickered towards Lord Greengrass, his expression shifting to one of weariness. "Ah, Lord Greengrass," Fudge began, his tone adopting a veneer of cordiality. "Let us say it just seems rather... fortuitous, shall we say, that Dementors, creatures under the control of the Ministry, would be sighted in a Muggle-inhabited area.

"No, I say Potter didn't expect to get caught breaking the statue of secrecy, and crafted this well-rehearsed story, that being it was the Dementors."

"But Minister Fudge," Lord Greengrass replied, his voice carrying a tone of polite inquiry, "might it not be reasonable to consider that the presence of Dementors in a Muggle-inhabited area could pose a significant breach of security, regardless of the circumstances surrounding their appearance?"

"If the Dementors were in fact there, which I highly doubt."

"Well, the purpose of this court is to eliminate doubt, is it not? We certainly wouldn't want somebody to use this court as their own personal vendetta." Lord Greengrass argued.

"Preposterous!" Fudge spluttered, his face turning a shade of red that matched his anger. "I assure you, Lord Greengrass, the Ministry takes its responsibilities regarding the security of both magical and Muggle communities very seriously."

"But surely, Minister," Lord Greengrass persisted, his tone measured, "we must consider all possibilities before jumping to conclusions."

Fudge's jaw tightened as he struggled to regain his composure. "Indeed, Lord Greengrass," he admitted through gritted teeth, "but we must also not entertain baseless theories that undermine the integrity of our institutions."

"Please, Minister Fudge, let us know where such baseless theories were used, and me and the accused will explain our reasoning." Tom broke in.

Fudge's nostrils flared as he shot a glare in Tom's direction. "I will not tolerate any further disruptions!" he bellowed, banging the gavel for emphasis. "And you, witness, will refrain from attempting to direct the proceedings of this court."

Tom raised an eyebrow but remained composed. "My apologies, Minister. I seek only to clarify the accusations against the accused," he replied smoothly.

Lord Greengrass, undeterred by Fudge's attempts to quash the discussion, spoke up once more. "Minister Fudge, if I may," he began, his tone respectful but firm, "can you confirm whether there were, in fact, no Dementors present at the scene of the alleged incident?"

Fudge worked his jaw in irritation, before with a reluctant sigh, he slumped down, "No, we have no evidence to suggest that there were no Dementors out of place at that time."

"Surely the Dementors would be tracked? Are you suggesting, Minister, that a Dementor could decide to leave the confines of Azkaban, and the Ministry would know nothing of it?" Dowager Longbottom demanded.

Fudge shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his usual air of confidence visibly shaken by Dowager Longbottom's pointed questioning. "Well, you see, Dowager Longbottom," he stammered, "the matter of Dementor surveillance is, uh, a complex one. While the Ministry does keep tabs on the movements of Dementors, there are instances where they may, uh, be beyond our ability to find."

"And what actions does the Ministry take to address such instances?" Dowager Longbottom pressed, her tone demanding accountability.

Fudge hesitated, his eyes darting nervously around the courtroom. "Well, naturally, the Ministry would launch an investigation to ascertain the circumstances surrounding any unauthorised movement of Dementors," he replied, his voice sounding less assured than before.

"An investigation, you say?" Dowager Longbottom raised an eyebrow. "And have there been any such investigations regarding the reported sightings of Dementors in Little Whinging on the night in question?"

Fudge swallowed hard, clearly struggling to maintain his composure under Dowager Longbottom's scrutiny. "I... I would need to consult the relevant department heads for that information," he mumbled evasively.

"But why was an investigation not always underway? Madam Bones, perhaps you could explain this clear lax attitude?" Lord Greengrass demanded.

"In this particular case," Madam Bones began, her gaze briefly flickering towards Fudge, "I can confirm that my department was indeed prepared to initiate an investigation into the reported sightings of Dementors in Little Whinging. However, we were subsequently instructed by the Ministry's senior leadership to refrain from further action pending additional directives."

A murmur of surprise rippled through the courtroom as Madam Bones' words sank in. Fudge, meanwhile, squirmed uncomfortably in his seat, his face flushing with embarrassment at being called out.

Lord Greengrass nodded thoughtfully, his expression unreadable. "I see," he remarked evenly. "Thank you for your candour, Madam Bones."

Turning his attention back to Fudge, Lord Greengrass fixed the Minister with a pointed stare. "Minister Fudge, would you care to provide an explanation for the decision to halt the investigation into the reported Dementor sightings?"

"It was the word of one deluded boy!" Fudge spluttered, looking around in search of support.

"One 'deluded' boy, and an Auror, you mean?" Dowager Longbottom corrected, her voice carrying a clear note of scepticism.

"Well, yes, of course," he conceded reluctantly, his tone lacking the conviction he had previously displayed.

Lord Greengrass, sensing an opportunity to further press Fudge, leaned forward slightly, his gaze unwavering. "Minister Fudge, with all due respect, is it not the duty of the Ministry to thoroughly investigate any potential breaches of magical law, regardless of the source of the information?" he pressed.

"How many Dementors were there, Mr. Potter?" Dowager Longbottom asked, gazing at him steadily and expectantly.

Harry took a moment to collect his thoughts, his brow furrowing in concentration. "There were initially around six Dementors present," he began, his voice steady despite the weight of the memories. "However, during the course of the encounter, only two of them escaped."

"Six initially, you say? Can you elaborate on how these Dementors were neutralised, Mr. Potter?" Madam Bones demanded, "Such information could prove invaluable for our understanding of these events."

Caught in the spotlight, Harry felt regret seize over him like a wave, cursing his quick tongue for revealing too much. Which left him admitting to using a powerful artefact to destroy the Dementors would be truthful, but would almost certainly result in the Ministry trying its hardest to seize the Gauntlet from him.

On the other hand, he could come up with some clever lie, convincing enough to deceive everyone present, including the head of Magical Law. All in the next few seconds, without appearing suspicious.

"Well… you see Madam Bones… after Auror Tonks tried and failed to banish the Dementors away with her Patronus, we knew we needed something else to escape. And since I didn't have my wand, given I of course lost it at the end of the Triwizard Tournament, I wasn't able to help out conventionally.

"So, instead I focused my raw magic, and used it to make a fire that consumed the Dementors completely."

After Harry delivered his explanation, Madam Bones' expression remained inscrutable as she contemplated his words. Her brow furrowed slightly, betraying a hint of scepticism as she processed the information.

"Creating fire strong enough to consume Dementors is quite an extraordinary feat, Mr. Potter…" She paused, her gaze lingering on Harry, searching for any sign of deception. "Are you certain that you, without your wand, and under such duress, were able to perform such advanced magic?"

Harry hesitated for a moment, trying to gauge just how convinced she actually was, before deciding to go all in. "Yes."

"May we see it?"

"No." Harry replied easily, before stilling as Madam Bones glowered down at him.

"What I'm sure my client means, honourable Madam Bones, is that such a fire spell surely shouldn't be used so lightly in an enclosed environment like this chamber." Tom hurried to explain.

Madam Bones' expression softened slightly at Tom's explanation, though her suspicion remained evident. "Indeed, Mr. Gauntus, caution is certainly warranted when dealing with powerful magic," she conceded, her tone measured. "However in this case, I am sure we shall be fine. Please, go ahead Mr. Potter."

"Are you quite sure you want to have such experimental magic in use here, Amelia?" Dumbledore called in concern.

"Oh, I am quite sure," Madam Bones insisted, not breaking eye contact with Harry. "Mr. Potter, please proceed with your demonstration."

Standing slowly, Harry shared a panicked look with Tom, before the man retreated to safety.

With a deep breath, Harry focused his thoughts on his Gauntlet, concealed beneath its flesh disguise. Closing his eyes momentarily, he willed the magical artefact to unleash a jet of Patronus fire as he thrust his hand forward. To his dismay, nothing happened, causing him to chuckle awkwardly.

But as he pulled his hand back, that's when a giant jet of dark blue fire shot out, rushing up over the heads of the court before washing high up against the wall.

The flames roared upwards, casting a brilliant glow across the courtroom and causing several members of the Wizengamot to leap back in surprise. The intense heat licked at the walls, leaving scorch marks in its wake before dissipating into wisps of smoke.

Harry's eyes widened in shock at the unexpected display of magic, his heart pounding with adrenaline as he struggled to regain his composure. Before him, Madam Bones remained composed, though her monocle had fallen from her eye.

Clearing his throat nervously, Harry addressed the room, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "I, uh, apologise for the… unexpected outcome. It seems my magic had other plans."

Madam Bones regarded him thoughtfully for a moment before speaking, her tone measured. "Indeed, Mr. Potter. It appears your demonstration has certainly provided some insight into the nature of your abilities."

But as some of the Wizemgamot stood up from where they'd cowered under their seats, Lord Greengrass stood to properly address the room.

"If you are quite done with asking the accused to burn down this courtroom, Madam Bones, perhaps we could move on with our lives?" he demanded, "Unless anyone here still believes this boy is guilty of anything more than Minister Fudge's paranoia?"

Following Lord Greengrass's remark, the chamber buzzed with murmurs and chuckles as the members of the Wizengamot exchanged glances and shifted in their seats. Madam Bones, sensing the shift in mood, raised a hand to silence the room.

"Indeed, Lord Greengrass makes a valid point," she conceded, her tone carrying a note of authority. "Let us return our focus to the matter at hand."

Turning her attention back to Harry, Madam Bones continued, her gaze piercing. "Mr. Potter, do you have anything more to declare, that may be pertinent to your case?"

"Only, without Auror Tonks' use of the Patronus charm, to fend back the Dementors, I wouldn't be here now. And to reiterate that the only witness of the magic cast was my Muggle cousin, who had already known about magic for years."

"Thank you, Mr. Potter." Madam Bones turned to Minister Fudge, her gaze unwavering. "Minister Fudge, if there are no further objections or questions, perhaps it is time to proceed with the vote."

Fudge, looking visibly subdued after the turn of events, nodded reluctantly. "Yes, yes, of course," he muttered, shuffling through his parchments to find the appropriate documents.

"As Minister of Magic, I shall now call for a vote among the esteemed members of the Wizengamot," Fudge announced, his voice lacking its usual confidence. "All those in favour of finding Mr. Potter guilty of the charges brought against him, please signify by raising your wands."

As a few members of the Wizengamot began to raise their wands, Harry couldn't help but feel a surge of anger. He very carefully memorised the faces of the five members who raised their wands, including the toad-like features of the woman sitting beside Fudge.

The same Minister Fudge who conspicuously abstained from voting, his discomfort evident as he avoided meeting Harry's gaze. It was clear that despite his earlier bluster, Fudge's confidence had been shaken by the proceedings.

"And those in favour of clearing Mr. Potter of all charges?" Fudge sighed, barely looking as a sea of wands rose in the air, soon followed by a scattering of applause.

As the applause died down, Madam Bones rose from her seat, her expression solemn yet resolute. "With the majority of the Wizengamot voting in favour of clearing Mr. Potter of all charges, it is the decision of this court to declare him innocent," she declared, her voice echoing throughout the chamber.

A sense of relief washed over Harry as the weight of the trial lifted from his shoulders. He exchanged a glance of gratitude with Tom, who nodded in silent acknowledgment.

Madam Bones continued, her gaze sweeping across the assembled members. "Furthermore, in light of the evidence presented and the testimony given, it is the recommendation of this court that the Ministry conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged sightings of Dementors in Little Whinging on the night in question," she announced firmly.

The room buzzed with murmurs of agreement, signalling a brief shift in the balance of justice within the Wizengamot.

Finally, Madam Bones turned to address Harry directly. "Mr. Potter, you are free to go."

With a nod of understanding, Harry rose from his seat, his heart lighter than it had been in weeks. And then as fast as possible, he hurried out the chamber, not wanting to linger for any unexpected complications that might pull the rug from beneath his feet.

But, as the doors slammed shut behind him, blocking the noise of Lord Greengrass mercilessly verbally ripping Fudge to shreds, Harry took a moment to exhale deeply, a sense of relief flooding over him.

"Well, that certainly went better than expected," Tom remarked behind him, breaking the momentary silence and startling an unaware Harry.

"Don't do that!" Harry complained, clutching his chest. "What are you doing here anyway?"

"I wasn't about to stick around in there," Tom chided, pointing his head at the iron door. "So I thought I'd come here and catch up with an old friend."

"Uh huh, friend. I meant, here in the Ministry, being my witness for defence! You said you were working at the Daily Prophet."

"Ah, well, you see," Tom began, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly, "I may have stretched the truth a bit. I'm still working for the Prophet, but I've also taken on some... freelance work."

Harry raised an eyebrow. "Freelance work? You mean being a Ministry approved lawyer?"

"Something like that. The Prophet helped me get all set up, since it leads to good headlines. But we both know there are things happening in the wizarding world that the Prophet isn't too keen on reporting on, and this way I can keep a personal eye on the relevant members."

Before Harry could respond, the door burst open, and Dumbledore stormed into the room, his expression grave. Without a word, he reached out and grasped Tom by the arm, his grip firm and unyielding. Ignoring any protests or attempts to resist, Dumbledore forced Tom into a nearby room.

Shocked by Dumbledore's sudden actions, Harry hurried to follow them, rushing into the room just before the door sealed shut, finding Dumbledore holding Tom against the wall, the Elder Wand held aloft, its tip pointed at Tom's startled face.

"Now, Tom Riddle, why should I not just kill you here?" Dumbledore asked in a dread-filled voice.