The Unseen Inheritance

Chapter 11: The Ministry Review

The atrium of the Ministry of Magic was as imposing as Harry remembered. The golden fountain gleamed in the center of the hall, its sculpted figures glinting under the enchanted ceiling's soft glow. Wizards and witches bustled around them, their conversations and footsteps creating a low hum of activity. Harry adjusted his robes, the weight of the moment settling heavily on his shoulders. Beside him, Hermione carried an air of determination, her sharp eyes scanning the room for potential threats.

"There," Hermione said, nodding toward a side corridor. "Brannok said he'd meet us near the review chamber."

Harry followed her gaze and spotted the goblin waiting near an ornate door, his sharp features set in an expression of calm authority. As they approached, Brannok inclined his head in greeting.

"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger," Brannok said, gesturing for them to follow. "The panel is assembling. Let us review the final strategy."

They stepped into a smaller, private chamber where Brannok spread out a series of parchments. "The key is composure," he said, his voice low and precise. "Stick to the facts and allow the evidence to speak for itself. Miss Granger, you will assist in presenting the documentation when necessary."

Hermione nodded. "We're ready."

Brannok's gaze flicked to Harry. "The panel will attempt to provoke you, Mr. Potter. Remain calm. They will look for any sign of instability to justify siding with Dumbledore."

Harry swallowed hard but nodded. "I'll keep my cool."

Satisfied, Brannok gathered the parchments into a neat stack. "Follow me."

The review chamber was an intimidating space, with high ceilings and an air of solemnity that demanded respect. At the center of the room, a long table seated the panel members. Harry immediately recognized Amelia Bones, her sharp gaze assessing him as he entered. The other members were a mix of neutral figures, one or two familiar faces loyal to Dumbledore, and a few unknown entities.

"Mr. Potter, Miss Granger," Amelia said, her tone neutral but commanding. "Please take your seats."

As they settled at their designated table, Brannok took his place beside them. Amelia began the proceedings with a succinct summary of the review's purpose: to determine Harry's legal and financial autonomy.

"Mr. Potter," she said, her eyes locking onto his. "This is a serious matter. Your case has drawn significant attention. Do you understand the implications?"

"I do, Madam Bones," Harry replied, keeping his voice steady.

Amelia nodded, gesturing for Brannok to begin. The goblin stood, his presence commanding despite his stature. "Honorable panel," he began, "Gringotts Bank presents irrefutable evidence of Mr. Potter's financial independence and legal status as an adult in the Wizarding world. The documents before you outline his inheritance, property ownership, and demonstrated ability to manage these assets without oversight."

Brannok's calm and methodical presentation set the tone, laying out Harry's case with precision. The panel members listened intently, though Harry noticed a few exchanging subtle glances, their loyalty to Dumbledore apparent.

The questioning began, and Harry found himself under scrutiny. One panel member, a stout man with a perpetually skeptical expression, leaned forward. "Mr. Potter, managing substantial assets requires more than financial acumen. It requires maturity. Can you provide examples of decisions you've made that demonstrate this maturity?"

Harry took a deep breath. "I've maintained the properties I inherited, ensured my finances are secure, and sought advice from trusted experts when needed. I've also prioritized protecting the people around me, even when it's put me at risk."

Another panel member, a witch with sharp features and a piercing gaze, interjected. "Protecting others is admirable, Mr. Potter, but can you elaborate on your decision-making process? How do you weigh risks versus benefits in high-stakes situations?"

Harry hesitated, carefully choosing his words. "I assess the situation as best I can, prioritize the safety of those involved, and act decisively. I know I've made mistakes, but I've learned from them and strive to make better decisions."

A third panelist, clearly aligned with Dumbledore, leaned forward. "Mr. Potter, some might argue that seeking independence at your age is itself reckless. What would you say to those critics?"

Harry met their gaze without flinching. "I would say that I've been forced to grow up faster than most. My decisions aren't made lightly, and I believe I'm capable of managing my own affairs responsibly."

Amelia's gaze lingered on Harry, her expression unreadable. "And your recent decision to establish independence from your guardians? What prompted this?"

Harry hesitated but spoke honestly. "I realized staying with them was no longer safe or necessary. I've taken steps to ensure my safety and manage my affairs without burdening others."

The questioning turned to Hermione. "Miss Granger, as Mr. Potter's closest associate, what is your assessment of his ability to handle these responsibilities?"

Hermione straightened her posture. "Harry has proven himself to be resourceful, thoughtful, and determined. He takes his responsibilities seriously and seeks advice when needed. He's shown incredible growth over the past year."

"And do you believe he has the maturity to handle these challenges without guidance?" the sharp-featured witch pressed.

"Yes, I do," Hermione said firmly. "Harry doesn't make decisions lightly, and he has the courage to face the consequences of his actions."

The tension in the room rose as Amelia announced a surprise witness. The doors opened, and Ginny Weasley stepped into the chamber, her expression a mix of confidence and defiance. Harry's stomach tightened as she took the stand.

"Miss Weasley," Amelia said, her tone measured. "You've been called to provide insight into Mr. Potter's character and behavior. Please proceed."

Ginny's voice carried an air of forced maturity, though her words betrayed her desperation. "Harry's been making all these decisions about his life without consulting anyone who cares about him. It's like he doesn't trust anyone anymore. I think he's too focused on keeping everything to himself. Especially his money."

Hermione's hand twitched beside Harry, but she remained silent, her knuckles white as she gripped the table.

"Miss Weasley," Brannok said coolly, "can you provide specific examples of this behavior?"

Ginny hesitated, then pressed on, her tone growing shrill. "He used to come to The Burrow all the time, but now he's avoiding us. He's cut ties with everyone who loves him. And then there's the inheritance! He has so much gold, and he's hoarding it while my family struggles. Doesn't that say something about his character?"

Amelia raised an eyebrow. "And you believe Mr. Potter has a responsibility to share his inheritance with others?"

Ginny flushed but lifted her chin. "Not just anyone—his friends! The people who've been there for him! He should know that family is more important than money."

Brannok's next question was sharp. "Miss Weasley, do you consider yourself part of Mr. Potter's family?"

Ginny faltered, her confidence wavering. "I… I thought we were close. We were supposed to be close."

"Supposed to be?" Amelia's tone was icy. "Thank you, Miss Weasley. That will be all."

Ginny's facade cracked as she stepped down, her confident demeanor giving way to frustration. She avoided Harry's gaze as she walked past, her fists clenched at her sides.

Arthur Weasley's testimony brought a sense of sincerity to the proceedings. He spoke earnestly about Harry's resilience, courage, and responsibility.

"Harry has faced challenges most of us can only imagine," Arthur said, his voice steady. "Despite this, he has shown remarkable strength and an unwavering commitment to doing what's right. He is more than capable of managing his affairs."

Arthur's words carried weight, and even Dumbledore's allies seemed unable to refute his sincerity. He avoided directly accusing Dumbledore but hinted at manipulations that added credibility to Harry's case.

When the panel adjourned to deliberate, Harry and Hermione waited anxiously with Brannok in a side room. The goblin reviewed their performance with a nod of approval. "You handled yourselves well. The evidence is undeniable, and the panel's skepticism has shifted in your favor."

After what felt like hours, the panel reconvened. Amelia Bones delivered the verdict:

Harry was granted full legal and financial independence. Relief washed over him as the decision sank in.

As they left the chamber, Arthur approached, his face etched with worry. "Be careful, Harry. Dumbledore won't take this lightly. He'll find another way."

Harry nodded, his resolve hardening. "Let him try. We're ready."

Hermione placed a reassuring hand on his arm. "One step at a time."

Together, they exited the Ministry, the path ahead clearer but no less daunting.