CHAPTER 41: THE CHESSBOARD'S SHIFT
Cornelius Fudge strode purposefully into his lavishly appointed office, the burdens of his station etched deeply into the lines of his weary countenance. He hung his finely tailored bowler hat and overcoat with practiced precision, a familiar prelude to his evening ritual. A drawer slid open smoothly, revealing the glint of a crystal decanter housing the amber elixir of firewhiskey. Pouring himself a generous measure, Fudge welcomed the fiery warmth that momentarily dulled the relentless pressure of his ministerial duties.
Since the turbulent trial that had shaken the foundations of the Ministry, Fudge found solace in these quiet moments of reflection. Though the Wizengamot's judgment had not directly targeted him, the specter of that harrowing ordeal loomed large, casting a long shadow over his tenure. Joshua Greengrass, with his subtle machinations and confident demeanor, seemed to hold sway over Fudge's decisions, leaving him with a lingering sense of unease.
The motives behind Greengrass's power play remained a mystery, a puzzle that Fudge couldn't quite decipher. Why had Greengrass chosen that particular moment to assert his dominance? Was it a calculated move to avoid direct confrontation with the Minister himself, or did it signify a deeper agenda at play? Fudge mulled over these questions as he swirled the whiskey in his glass, the amber liquid reflecting the flickering light of the office's enchanted candles.
The memory of Greengrass's smug smile haunted Fudge, a constant reminder of the younger man's cunning and ambition. His adept manipulation of the trial proceedings, including the unexpected turn of blame onto Percy Weasley, had caught Fudge off guard. In a moment of desperation, Fudge had chosen to appease Greengrass, condemning Weasley to the custody of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement pending further investigation.
But with each passing day, the weight of that decision pressed heavily on Fudge's conscience. He knew he had incurred a debt to Greengrass, a debt that would eventually come due. It was a precarious balance of power, a delicate dance between survival and obligation that Fudge found himself caught in.
A sharp rap on the door interrupted Fudge's thoughts, jolting him back to the present. Setting down his glass with a sigh, he braced himself for the intrusion, steeling his resolve for whatever challenges the evening might bring. As the door creaked open, Fudge forced a congenial smile, masking the turmoil that churned beneath the surface.
Cornelius Fudge reclined in his chair, his demeanor genial as Dolores Umbridge, his Senior Undersecretary, swept into his office, her pink robes crisp and unmistakable. While Fudge rarely commented on matters of fashion, a small part of him wished for a touch of variety in Umbridge's wardrobe. Yet, any thoughts of sartorial diversity were quickly eclipsed by the determined gleam in her eyes.
Since the incident involving the veela's public insult, Dolores had been a force to be reckoned with, her calm exterior masking a simmering intensity. Fudge still vividly remembered the shock of learning about her parentage during the trial, a revelation that had momentarily shaken his trust in her abilities. However, an unexpected letter from Lucius Malfoy had intervened, urging Fudge to retain Umbridge's services for reasons that remained shrouded in mystery, yet undeniably tied to Malfoy's influence within the Wizengamot. The enigmatic connection between Umbridge and Malfoy piqued Fudge's curiosity, but he knew better than to pry too deeply, mindful of his father's cautionary words: "Beware the fangs of a seemingly docile creature."
"Dolores," Fudge greeted her with a polite nod, acknowledging her presence in his office.
"Mr. Malfoy requests an audience, Minister," Umbridge announced, her tone as composed as ever, though a hint of anticipation lingered beneath the surface.
The mention of Lucius Malfoy stirred a subtle flush of color in Fudge's cheeks. Ah, Lucius—a figure of intrigue and influence, particularly since the trial. Fudge had attempted to glean insights from the younger Malfoy, but found himself met with little more than icy glares directed at Harry Potter. Potter, despite his celebrity status, stood as a nexus linking the influential Houses of Potter, Black, and Greengrass. Fudge couldn't help but recognize the caliber of guests Potter's recent birthday celebration had attracted, yet the young wizard seemed uninterested in leveraging such gatherings for political gain, opting instead for the comfort of familial ties—a strategy that Fudge saw as a squandered opportunity for long-term political maneuvering.
In Fudge's mind, had he been in Potter's position, he would have seized upon the chance to forge alliances that could secure advantageous partnerships for years to come. But Potter's apparent disinterest in political machinations puzzled Fudge, challenging his strategic approach to wielding power and influence.
The mystery of how an ostensibly unambitious half-blood had risen to the esteemed rank of a Noble Lord lingered in Fudge's thoughts, a puzzle that confounded his strategic mind.
"Please," Fudge gestured to Umbridge, indicating she should proceed with inviting Malfoy. Then, with a slight pause, he added, "Dolores, any progress on the task I entrusted to you?"
A flicker of satisfaction danced across Umbridge's features. "Indeed, Minister," she replied. "Shall I provide an update after Mr. Malfoy's visit?"
Fudge shook his head slightly. "Not necessary. Lucius specifically requested those updates. I'm sure he'd like to hear the progress firsthand. Please," he gestured towards the door, "ask him to come in."
Within moments, Lucius Malfoy swept into the room, emanating an aura of aristocratic austerity. Tall and imposing, with a mane of snow-white hair framing his chiseled features, Malfoy exuded an air of calculated elegance. His attire, impeccably tailored black robes accented with subtle touches of silver, spoke volumes of his opulent lifestyle. A silver-handled cane, polished to a mirror-like shine, added to the aura of lethal sophistication that surrounded him. His eyes, cool and piercing, held a steely resolve that seemed to brook no opposition—an unmistakable mark of a successful patriarch.
"Cornelius," Malfoy greeted with a nod, acknowledging Fudge's presence before turning his attention to Umbridge. "Madam Umbridge, your performance during the trial was exemplary. It's regrettable that the Wizengamot chose to believe the fabrications of a dark creature over your eloquent defense."
Umbridge's cheeks tinged with a delicate blush, a practiced coquetry evident in her response. "Your praise is most kind, Mr. Malfoy."
"I anticipate certain outcomes, Cornelius," Malfoy stated, his tone laced with expectation, a silent reminder of their previous discussions.
"Yes, indeed," Fudge replied, straightening in his chair. "In fact, Dolores just informed me of significant progress on that front."
"Ah, excellent," Malfoy acknowledged, inclining his head towards Umbridge. "Madam Umbridge, if you would be so kind as to provide the details?"
Umbridge nodded deferentially, a sense of satisfaction evident in her demeanor as she prepared to unveil the results of her efforts.
Dolores settled into her seat with practiced poise, sliding a single file to the center of the polished table. "As you requested, Minister, I conducted an exhaustive review of the Hogwarts Charter and unearthed a particular clause of interest. This clause, added and ratified by then-Headmaster Armando Dippet in the tumultuous year of 1943, was sanctioned by the Wizengamot and witnessed by none other than Pollux Cygnus Black, the esteemed Chief Warlock at the time."
"1943..." Lucius mused, a flicker of recognition crossing his features. "That year carries a certain weight."
Dolores nodded, her smile tinged with knowing. "Indeed, it marks a significant event—a tragedy that befell a student. Myrtle Warren, a pureblood girl, reportedly fell victim to the alleged machinations of a 'monster' purportedly unleashed from the Chamber of Secrets, attributed to Salazar Slytherin himself."
Lucius's expression tightened with understanding.
"Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, as you both know, operates with a degree of autonomy, independent from direct Ministry oversight, governed by its own Charter. However, in the wake of the Chamber of Secrets incident and the subsequent failure to resolve it, an addendum—Clause 159—was appended to the Charter by a decisive two-thirds majority vote of the Board of Governors. This clause temporarily vested the Ministry with jurisdiction over Hogwarts, empowering Ministry Aurors to investigate without triggering the formidable protective wards surrounding the school. The result, as history records, led to the arrest and imprisonment of Rubeus Hagrid, then the gamekeeper and later the Care of Magical Creatures professor at Hogwarts."
A weighted silence hung in the air before Dolores resumed, her voice steady. "It's of particular significance to note that the individual who identified the perpetrator was none other than... Tom Marvolo Riddle."
The revelation hung heavy in the air as Fudge contemplated the implications of Dolores's words, his gaze lingering on Lucius Malfoy, who betrayed only the subtlest of reactions. A faint twitch of the lips hinted at a mix of prior knowledge, concealed frustration, or perhaps complete ignorance mingled with resentment at supporting a half-blood outcast. Yet, regardless of Malfoy's thoughts, it was undeniable that the individual in question had risen to become the most formidable Dark Lord in recent wizarding history.
Lucius, sensing the need to proceed, inclined his head slightly, prompting Dolores to continue.
"As I highlighted before the Wizengamot, Mr. Malfoy," Dolores continued, her voice laced with disdain, "Harry Potter represents a significant threat to our wizarding society, particularly as his influence extends to the future leadership of our nation. A power-hungry, delusional brat such as him... the potential havoc he could wreak sends shivers down my spine."
She paused, expecting concurrence, but Cornelius interjected, shaking his head thoughtfully. "It's not quite as cut and dry, Dolores. While Harry Potter may have faced certain challenges during his time at Hogwarts, there's no evidence to suggest he poses an immediate danger to his fellow students. Thus, the Clause in question doesn't apply."
"But he's responsible for Cedric Diggory's death!" Dolores countered vehemently.
"In a context of self-defense, utilizing his Family Magic, in circumstances beyond the scope of standard Hogwarts activities," Cornelius countered calmly. "This was debated extensively during the trial and is not sufficient grounds to label him an imminent threat."
"But—"
"You underestimate the boy's influence," Fudge interrupted firmly. "He is now the Noble Lord of the House of Potter, with alliances extending to House Black and House Greengrass. Three Noble Houses united under his banner. I witnessed it firsthand at the gathering, Dolores. The House of Bones, Longbottom, and potentially Burke, stand with him as well. Add to that the support of several other smaller houses and influential figures—he's cultivating a formidable faction of his own."
Dolores's scowl deepened, but Cornelius remained resolute. "I understand your personal feelings in this matter. I recognize that he represents everything you detest. Rest assured, I share your sentiments. However, any attempt to remove him from Hogwarts in such a manner could prove disastrous. The Ministry's credibility has already taken a blow. Pursuing the Boy-Who-Lived again could lead to even greater backlash. Sirius Black might even consider transferring him to Beauxbatons. Just imagine the damage to my approval ratings—I'd be facing a vote of no confidence in no time."
Lucius fixed his gaze on Cornelius, a suggestion hovering on the tip of his tongue, an aura of calculated danger surrounding him. Fudge, wary of Lucius's intentions given recent shifts in allegiances and the growing influence of the Boy-Who-Lived faction, regarded him with a cautious scrutiny.
"If the proposal is made genuinely," Fudge replied cautiously, "I'm willing to entertain suggestions."
Lucius's voice, smooth as silk, insinuated, "The Ministry cannot openly target the Boy-Who-Lived. However, if evidence suggests a threat to the safety of students, the Ministry can take action, correct?"
Fudge let out a heavy sigh. "I suppose so."
"Consider this scenario," Lucius continued, leaning forward slightly, "what if letters—numerous missives from various Houses—express concerns about the presence of such a dangerous individual at Hogwarts? Would the Headmaster not be obliged to address these grievances?"
"Dumbledore is unlikely to willingly allow Potter to leave Hogwarts," Fudge countered.
"Exactly," Lucius nodded. "That's where the Board of Governors comes in. By a two-thirds majority, they can invoke Clause 159, granting the Ministry influence."
"It wouldn't lead to Potter's arrest," Fudge pondered aloud. "We could deploy Aurors for security, conduct regular patrols. But arresting him without sufficient cause would be problematic."
Lucius's grin widened, a predator scenting its prey. "Madam Umbridge, could you clarify the extent of the Ministry's authority under the Clause?"
Umbridge's smile turned sickly sweet. "The interpretation is flexible. If the Headmaster fails to take action, the Ministry has significant leeway in resolving the matter."
A conspiratorial atmosphere enveloped the Minister's office, as a plan subtly took shape amidst the legal intricacies and veiled implications of their discussion.
Fudge grasped the direction Lucius was steering the conversation, recognizing both the potential and the necessity for someone reliable, someone he could trust implicitly with such a critical role.
"Dolores, could you arrange to compile a list of potential candidates for the Defense Against the Dark Arts position at Hogwarts?" Fudge requested, pausing momentarily as a thought creased his brow. "We need someone trustworthy."
Lucius smoothly interjected, "Actually, it seems we may already have a candidate in mind. Madam Umbridge possesses various talents, including a NEWT in Defense Against the Dark Arts."
"What?" Fudge spluttered in disbelief, taken aback by the idea of the pink-obsessed bureaucrat holding such a qualification. "I mean—of course—"
Unaware of Fudge's astonishment, Dolores blushed modestly. "It was an Exceeds Expectations, Minister. I was fortunate to master the Patronus charm just before my NEWT exams."
Fudge blinked, feeling as though he had stumbled into a day of unexpected revelations.
"I propose," Lucius continued, fixing Fudge with a meaningful gaze, "that Madam Umbridge assumes the role of Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts for the duration of this Clause. I have observed Potter closely and believe Madam Umbridge can expose his true nature for all to see. Isn't that correct, Madam Umbridge?"
"Please," Dolores replied, her blush now matching the vivid hue of her attire, "call me Dolores."
A twisted smile played across Lucius's lips as he continued, "Dolores, in the event of persistent issues, what actions can the Ministry take?"
Dolores, exuding confidence and authority, elaborated, "There's an intriguing provision—a clause for Emergency situations. It permits the appointment of a High-Inquisitor, someone vested with authority over the staff, excluding the Headmaster. This position is temporary and remains in effect only as long as the issue persists, allowing for—"
But Fudge's mind had already raced ahead, thoughts racing like thundering hooves. Dolores as the Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor not only granted him control over a crucial position but also provided a direct channel for insider information regarding Dumbledore's actions. Her proven ability to provoke Potter added another layer to the intricate puzzle taking shape in his mind. Connecting the dots...
A rare smile spread across Cornelius Fudge's face, a glint of anticipation and ambition shining in his eyes—a moment of clarity and resolve in the midst of uncertainty.
August 19, 1995.
From the front page of the Daily Prophet— "GRISELDA MARCHBANKS, HEAD OF OWL EXAMINERS AUTHORITY DOWN WITH DRAGON POX! ALECTO CARROW ELECTED AS NEW HEAD OF OWL EXAMINATIONS AUTHORITY! OWL SYLLABI TO UNDERGO SIGNIFICANT CHANGES FOR THE BETTER, CLAIMS CARROW!"
The news sent ripples of speculation throughout the wizarding community. Griselda Marchbanks, a stalwart figure in the field of magical education, had fallen ill with dragon pox, leaving a void in the leadership of the Owl Examiners Authority. In her absence, Alecto Carrow had been elected as the new head, promising significant changes to the OWL syllabi.
Concerns and whispers spread among students and educators alike. What changes would Carrow bring to the examinations? How would it affect the upcoming school year at Hogwarts and beyond? The announcement left many wondering about the future of magical education in Britain.
August 23, 1995.
From the front page of the Daily Prophet— "HOGWARTS BOARD OF GOVERNORS PASS CONTROVERSIAL CLAUSE 159! MINISTRY OF MAGIC PASSES EDUCATIONAL DECREE NUMBER 22! DOLORES UMBRIDGE APPOINTED AS DEFENCE AGAINST THE DARK ARTS PROFESSOR AT HOGWARTS!"
The announcement sent shockwaves throughout the wizarding world. Clause 159, a controversial provision allowing the Ministry of Magic temporary jurisdiction over Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, had been passed by the Hogwarts Board of Governors. Alongside it, the Ministry had enacted Educational Decree Number 22, granting unprecedented authority over the school's educational matters.
In a move that stirred controversy and disbelief, Dolores Umbridge, a Ministry bureaucrat known for her strict adherence to Ministry directives and penchant for discipline, had been appointed as the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor at Hogwarts. The decision left many questioning the motives behind such a drastic appointment and what implications it would have for the students and staff of Hogwarts.
The news of Dolores Umbridge's appointment as the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor at Hogwarts ignited a firestorm of speculation and concern among students, parents, and educators alike. Umbridge's reputation for strict adherence to Ministry regulations and her infamous tenure as Senior Undersecretary to the Minister of Magic made her a polarizing figure in the wizarding community.
Rumors swirled about the Ministry's motives behind the appointment and the implications it would have for Hogwarts' curriculum and atmosphere. Some feared that Umbridge's appointment signaled a shift towards Ministry interference in the school's affairs, while others expressed concerns about her qualifications and teaching methods.
Students whispered in hushed tones about what to expect from their new professor, with many dreading the prospect of her notoriously authoritarian approach to discipline. Parents wrote letters of protest to the Hogwarts Board of Governors, expressing their reservations about Umbridge's suitability for the role.
Meanwhile, Hogwarts staff members exchanged worried glances and convened in hushed meetings, grappling with how to navigate the new dynamic that Umbridge's presence would undoubtedly bring to the school. Dumbledore himself remained enigmatic, offering little insight into his thoughts on the matter but maintaining a watchful eye over the unfolding situation.
As the start of the new school year approached, tension hung thick in the air at Hogwarts, casting a shadow of uncertainty over the beloved institution. With Dolores Umbridge at the helm of Defense Against the Dark Arts, the coming year promised to be unlike any other in Hogwarts history.
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