Aftermath Of Abandonment ✔ - Chapter 7: Chapter 7

A week had passed since the festive cheer of the Christmas holidays began, but for Hadrian, the season felt far from joyful. As he sat at a polished oak table within the grand, echoing halls of the Ministry, he was immersed in the rigorous preparation of his N.E.W.T.S. No longer a student of Hogwarts, he was focused solely on his ambitious future. In just a year, he would take on the esteemed roles of Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot and Headmaster of Hogwarts, stepping gracefully into positions once held by legends. This transition would unfold under the watchful guidance of Minerva McGonagall and Lord Greengrass, who would temporarily fill the roles until Hadrian was ready to take the reins.
With a determined expression, Hadrian ventured into Gringotts, the renowned bank of the wizarding world. He consciously tried to obscure his identity, pulling the hood of his cloak up to shield his face. He had grown weary of the relentless attention from the media and the insatiable curiosity of passersby who sought a glimpse of the young wizard who seemed to be at the centre of every story. The marble floors and towering columns of Gringotts buzzed with the sound of transactions and whispering patrons, but Hadrian's presence went unnoticed amidst the chaos—as he preferred.
"May your gold continue to flow, Master Goblin," Hadrian said, his voice firm yet respectful as he stepped into the bank's vast, dimly lit chamber. The air was thick with anticipation, and as soon as the words left his lips, every goblin rose from their seats and bowed in a precise, synchronised manner. The gesture was humbling and slightly overwhelming, prompting his wistful sigh. He reciprocated the gesture with a nod, then turned his attention to the goblin seated at the helm, Griphook.
"May your gold continue to flow, Master Griphook. It is nice meeting you again," Hadrian continued, a hint of warmth in his tone as he acknowledged the goblin's rank.
"May your enemies cower in your name, My Lord; what can I do for you today?" Griphook replied, his voice smooth yet imbued with a sense of gravity that contrasted with his diminutive stature.
With a steely resolve, Hadrian spoke, "Master Griphook, I would like you to gather all the evidence necessary to initiate a case against Albus Dumbledore, Molly Weasley, Ronald Weasley, Ginerva Weasley, and Hermione Granger. Before we commence the trial in the Wizengamot, I want you to inform Lord Arthur Weasley of their heinous crimes. Additionally, please send messages to Mr and Mrs Granger regarding their daughter's egregious mistakes, and forward all case details to my family lawyer, Mr Alessandro De Luca, as he will be representing me."
"It will be done, Lord Potter. Anything else you require?" Griphook asked, his sharp eyes keenly observing Hadrian.
"Yes, Master Griphook," Hadrian replied, his gaze steady. "The property is situated amidst lush, green forests and near Diagon Alley—I wish to transform it into a Wizarding Orphanage, fully equipped with all necessary amenities. Furthermore, I desire to convert Black Manor in Britain into a Wolf's Den, capable of housing at least 25 packs, each comprising 15 members, including children. This transformation should be completed within a month."
"Of course, my lord," Griphook acknowledged with a dignified nod. "I will send you interior designs through Owls, which you can review and select from. Once you've chosen, we can finalise the arrangements."
"Master Griphook, I also wish to obtain proof of my Lordship over Hogwarts as its only heir. This documentation will ensure that no one can dispute my rightful ownership when I claim it," Hadrian added, his voice tinged with determination. Griphook nodded thoughtfully, snapping his fingers to summon the necessary papers. The documents immediately appeared before Hadrian, who carefully tucked them into his robes, safeguarding his claims.
With that completed, Hadrian made his way to his vault, the familiar coolness of the stone walls providing comfort. He collected a sum of money for his day-to-day needs before stepping back into the bustling streets of the wizarding world, his face obscured beneath the hood of his cloak to maintain a low profile.
Soon after, he received a letter from his lawyer, detailing that the notice for the case against the Weasleys was set for two days hence, requiring his presence. Alongside it, another message from Griphook arrived, confirming that Lord Weasley had been informed about the grave wrongdoings committed by his family members against Hadrian. The weight of his actions settled upon him, and he steeled himself for the challenges ahead.
Arthur sat in his newly appointed office, a mix of pride and ambition swirling within him as he revealed his recent promotion to the Head of the Muggle Department. The position came with a substantial salary, but more importantly, it signified recognition of his hard work and dedication. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Magic had taken it upon themselves to handle the reconstruction of the Burrow, ensuring that the home would be restored and transformed with a stunning interior and a flourishing garden. The land was expansive, which left Arthur with a sense of solace, knowing that his children had all found success in their respective paths—except for his two youngest, who still had yet to find their way.
That day, however, everything changed with the arrival of a letter from the goblins. A chill crept through him as Arthur read the contents, setting his magical senses ablaze. He felt a surge of energy that threatened to erupt, so he quickly conjured a Patronus—a shimmering silver guardian—and sent it to each of his children, urging them to return home in haste.
With a determined snap of his fingers, he apparated directly into the cosy warmth of the kitchen. The familiar sights and smells of home surrounded him, but he knew this gathering was far from ordinary. His family quickly congregated around the old wooden table, a sense of trepidation hanging in the air as Arthur scanned their concerned faces, each expressing confusion and curiosity.
Taking a deep breath, he placed his hands firmly on the table and spoke with a gravity that silenced the room. "As the Lord of the Weasley Clan, I invoke ancient magic that mandates only the truth shall be spoken in my presence. So I swear, so mote it be." His statement sent ripples of shock through the family, and he could feel the tension rise. Only the twins exchanged knowing glances, their expressions hinting at an understanding of the gravity of the situation.
"Dad, what happened that you invoked this oath?" Bill asked, his voice tinged with concern as he tried to recover from the shock of his father's declaration.
"William," Arthur responded, his voice cold and relentless. "I will ask straightforward questions, and you will provide honest answers. This is not a time for questions, shouting, arguments, or deceit." Each family member nodded solemnly at the gravity of their words.
With a determined gaze, Arthur turned to Bill. "We will start with you. What is your opinion of Harry Potter, and did you ever attempt to betray or steal from him?"
Bill met his father's gaze. "Lord Weasley, Harry Potter is not just Ron's friend; he is like a brother to me, much like the rest of our family. I would never dream of betraying him or taking anything from him."
One by one, Charlie, Percy, and the twins echoed similar sentiments, a powerful sense of loyalty intertwining their words. Finally, it was Ron's turn to Ron, and his heart was racing as he prepared to answer his father's question.
"Yes, Harry Potter is nothing to me but a means to gain fame and money," Ron sneered, a cold smirk creeping across his face. "I betrayed him and stole not just from him along with Mother and Ginny. We've been doing this since that fateful night when his parents were slaughtered, and the Headmaster left him with his Aunt. Who does he think he is? A foolish half-blood and a miserable orphan. I would have ended him after the battle if I had any say in the matter." His words hung in the air like a thick fog, leaving everyone around him stunned except for the twins, whose faces twisted with disgust.
Ginny chimed in, her tone laced with false cheerfulness, "Also, Dad, so that you know, the Headmaster and Mum told me to slip him love potions. Don't worry; soon, we'll have all the wealth and lavish places we desire, and we can live luxuriously. I can't stand being called Lady Potter, but it's just for a few years. I will manage." Her expression was a mix of determination and reluctance as she spoke, her eyes glinting with ambition.
Molly, Ron and Ginny's mother, leaned forward, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Arthur, I wanted to discuss this with you initially, but I knew you would never approve. The older boys—Bill, Charlie, and Percy—are too independent, and the twins are always off goofing around. So, I kept it a secret. That boy owes us. We let him stay in our home during the summers and fed him meals while he dragged my son into dangerous situations. We deserve this opportunity! And he is completely oblivious to it all, so we can keep this matter concealed, leaving him in the dark until the end."
As Molly spoke, the twins erupted into laughter, tears streaming down their faces as they clutched their sides. Their joy, contrasted against the seriousness of their mother's words, created an almost surreal atmosphere.
"What's so funny?" Ron snapped, irritation bubbling up inside him. The twins looked at him with grave and contemptuous expressions that Ron recoiled under their piercing gazes. The laughter faded quickly, leaving an uncomfortable tension in its wake.
"Ronald, it pains me to say this, but you, Mum, and Ginerva are living in a fantasy if you genuinely believe—
—He is oblivious to your betrayal; in fact, he uncovered the truth during his second-year summer and chose to remain silent—
—Why, you may ask? Because he wanted to gauge your intentions and understand the schemes that that foolish old goat is concocting—
—Prepare yourself to confront the entire Wizarding World alongside Hadrian's formidable family, who are ready to exact revenge—
—Hadrian will unleash a taste of what it's like to endure the fires of hell; he'll not only bring you to your knees but will also take legal action against you three. That's why—
—he instructed the goblins to issue a warning to Dad, ensuring that everyone is braced for the inevitable consequences—
—we may share blood ties, but that's where the connection ends; you are nothing more than a sibling by chance, not by choice—
—to Mum, we are not enough; we don't measure up to her elder children, who are assertive and thriving independently, while we are viewed as nothing more than jesters riding through life—
—as for you and Ginerva, we've yet to receive a single comforting word or a hug infused with genuine affection, for Bill, Charlie, and Percy are hailed as the true heroes in your eyes—
—but Hadrian stood apart from the rest; he was the first to notice the subtle nuances in our personalities and traits that set us apart, and he genuinely celebrated our dreams of starting a joke shop. To us, he represents—
—the brother we long for, not you, Ronald. We will never consider you our brother because you are unworthy of love and affection from us or Hadrian. You are, quite frankly, a pathetic excuse for a person."
As the Twins finished their heartfelt yet cutting remark, an overwhelming silence enveloped the Burrow, the weight of their words hanging heavy in the air.
"Well, Molly," Arthur William Weasley began, his voice steady yet heavy with unspoken emotions, "you have confessed, so let's face the consequences of your actions." He stood tall, a resolute figure framed by dim light. "I, Arthur William Weasley, at this moment cast you, Molly Weasley neè Prewitt, alongside our son Ronald Bilius Weasley and our daughter Ginerva Molly Weasley, out of the Weasley family. You are no longer considered children of the Weasley family, and subsequently, you will not partake in any inheritance or possessions that belong to us. So I swear, so mote it be." His proclamation hung like a thick fog, shocking Molly while the others looked on solemnly, understanding the moment's weight.
Sensing the unrest brewing, Charlie gathered his thoughts and stepped forward firmly. "I, Charlie Fabian Weasley, do at this moment cast Molly Prewitt, Ronald Bilius Prewitt, and Ginerva Molly Prewitt out of the Prewitt family. You are no longer regarded as children of the Prewitt lineage and will henceforth forfeit any claim to the assets that belong to that family, so I swear, so mote it be." His voice carried authority, reverberating in the room, leaving a stunned silence. Molly's face shifted from disbelief to shock and fury as she turned to her second son, who had just delivered a crushing blow.
"How could you claim Prewitt Lordship? That right belonged to Ronald; I had kept it safe for him," she snapped, her voice rising with anger as her emotions spiralled.
"Sorry, Mum," Charlie replied, his expression composed yet firm. "It's not Ronald's right to claim it because it's the second-born in the Weasley family and the first-born in the Prewitt family. I have the rightful claim." His voice wavered slightly, burdened by the realisation of his role. "I didn't understand when Hadrian urged me to take on the Lordship, but now it's clear to me." The revelation struck Molly again, leaving her momentarily speechless.
"Molly," Arthur interjected, his tone shifting to a more cautionary note, "you can leave the wards, but do remember that your hearing is set for two hours before the full Wizengamot. If you fail to attend, magic will ensure you arrive at court." With finality, he closed the door, the sound echoing through the room. He sank into the couch, a deep sigh escaping him, the gravity of the decisions made weighing heavily on his shoulders.
Granger Residence:
Mr and Mrs Granger sat comfortably in their cosy living room, enjoying a warm cup of tea and a plate of freshly baked snacks. The afternoon sunlight streamed through the window, casting a soft glow around them as they chatted casually about their day. Suddenly, a regal-looking owl swooped down from the sky, its feathers a rich, deep brown with specks of gold that shimmered in the light. With a graceful landing, it perched itself on the edge of their coffee table, clutching a mysterious letter in its beak. The unexpected sight startled the couple, mainly because the letter was addressed to them, not their daughter, Hermione, leaving them both puzzled and intrigued.
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Granger,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to convey a serious matter regarding your daughter, Ms. Hermione Jean Granger. It is with considerable regret that I must inform you that she is to appear in legal court today at 5:00 p.m. This summons results from a grave accusation against her—specifically that she has been embezzling books and money from Mr Harry James Potter over the past seven years.
It has come to light that Albus Dumbledore facilitated funds transfers from Mr. Potter's vaults without his consent. Upon discovering this troubling truth, Mr Potter initiated legal action against Ms Granger for what he perceived as a profound betrayal from someone he thought was a friend. In a shocking turn of events, Ms. Granger has disclosed these troubling matters to Albus Dumbledore.
As her parents, We expect your presence at the hearing to be necessary. You will be escorted by Mrs. Nymphadora Tonks-Lupin, an esteemed Auror, who will guide you to the courtroom. The hearing itself is anticipated to be brief, lasting approximately twenty minutes, but the implications of these proceedings are far-reaching.
We understand this news is distressing, and we encourage you to support your daughter during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Master Rangnok
Goblin Manager
Dan Granger's voice thundered through their home as he bellowed for his daughter. The urgency in his tone echoed off the walls, making Hermione sprint down the stairs, her heart racing. As she entered the room, her eyes widened in disbelief at the sight before her: her father gripping a crumpled letter from Gringotts, the prestigious wizarding bank, a frown deep into his features.
"Did you or did you not steal from Mr. Potter and betray his friendship all these years?" Dan demanded, his voice steady but laced with simmering fury. "Who was your first friend? And don't you dare lie to me or your mother!"
Hermione felt a rush of heat flood her cheeks from anger and the looming dread of the confrontation. She straightened her posture defiantly, her mind racing. "Of course, I'm not going to lie!" she spat, her voice sharp and unwavering. "Yes, I stole from him. Of course, he's stupid and dumb, and I'm the brightest witch ever to walk the halls of Hogwarts. He doesn't even deserve the money and books he has in his vault! He's always dragged me into danger, so I deserve everything!"
The words had barely left her lips when a sudden sting resonated across her cheek—a powerful slap that sent her reeling. Pain burst through her senses, and she touched her face, feeling the warm trickle of blood from her lower lip. Shaken, she looked up to find Tonks standing there, her colourful hair starkly contrasting the tension in the air. Tonks' expression barely contained rage, and she looked ready to explode at any moment. The moment's weight hung heavy in the room as Hermione struggled to process the betrayal and the consequences of her actions.
"That's enough, Hermione Granger!" Dora's voice rang out, filled with irritation and a fierce protectiveness. "He didn't ask you to follow him into danger or invite you into his friendship. That was your own decision, influenced by the headmaster's suggestion. You called him 'dumb' and 'stupid,' but let me set the record straight: he is the top student of Hogwarts, shattering records across every subject. Have you even realised that? Or are you too busy judging him based on his demeanour in front of you and that misguided Weasley? You consider yourself the 'Brightest Witch of Hogwarts,' but let's get real. The true brightest witch to ever step into these hallowed halls, after Rowena Ravenclaw and Helga Hufflepuff, is Harry's mother, Mrs. Lily Mia Potter, née Evans. Do you grasp that?
Think long and hard before you speak ill of my brother because he might walk away, but I assure you, I will make you regret ever casting a spell or even taking your first breath on this earth. Do you understand? Now, gather your belongings. We're leaving – it's time for you to confront the consequences of your actions."
Without waiting for a response, Dora seized Hermione by the hand, her grip firm, and summoned Hermione's wand with a swift flick. Instantly, they disappeared with an audible crack, leaving the chaos behind. Meanwhile, Kingsley used his magic to transport the elder Grangers into the grand chamber of the Wizengamot. They found their seats in the audience, their expressions etched with worry as they noticed Hadrian's family waiting for the proceedings to unfold.
Hermione, however, was not so fortunate. She was restrained with magical cuffs, along with Molly, Ginerva, and Ronald, who glared across the chamber at Hadrian. He sat poised and calm on the opposite side, yet to take his oath in the Wizengamot. Beside him was his lawyer and legal representative, Alessandro, who was preparing for the upcoming legal proceedings. This gathering also included Neville, Blaise Zabini, and others, all there to swear their allegiance to the duties ahead.
Suddenly, the atmosphere changed as Amelia Bones entered the chamber, followed closely by Augusta Longbottom, who was blissfully unaware that her grandson was about to claim his place in the Wizengamot today. Lord Greengrass, assuming the role of Chief Warlock, rose from his seat, his expression serious as he cleared his throat, ready to commence the proceedings.
"I, Chief Warlock, do summon the session of Wizengamot into action now," he declared, his voice reverberating through the grand chamber. The polished wooden walls adorned with ancient tapestries echoed with authority. Eyes turned in curiosity and apprehension as Hadrian emerged, accompanied by his steadfast friends, and his daughter stood among them. Though he concealed his surprise expertly, others around him remained oblivious.
"We do," Hadrian responded, his voice robust and smooth—a firm proclamation that resonated with confidence and was echoed by his companions.
"Please state your business so that we can proceed further," Lord Greengrass called out, a sly smirk dancing at the corners of his mouth. His heart raced with intrigue at what his daughter and her allies had concocted; he could not fathom the depth of shock awaiting all present.
"I, Blaise Zabini, claim my birthright as Lord of the Most Noble House of Zabini, Lord of the Wizengamot. I swear on my magic and life that I shall uphold my duties to do right and protect the rights of Magical Beings. So I swear—SO MOTE IT BE," Blaise declared, his voice firm like thunderclaps. At that moment, the seat of House Zabini ignited with vibrant magical energy, coming alive in solidarity, for his mother was absent, knowing her son was ready to take up the mantle. Daphne Greengrass, Theodore Nott, Tracey Davis, Hannah Abbott, and Susan Bones stepped forward to claim their legacies. When Susan embraced her position, Amelia's proud smile radiated with profound warmth, prompting a beaming response from Susan. The air crackled with anticipation as Neville Longbottom took his stand, and the formidable figure of Augusta appeared in the audience chamber, her glare fixed on her grandson, and a moment of familial tension passed between them, igniting Hadrian's amused smirk.
"I, Hadrian James Aries Potter-Black, at this moment claim my birthright as Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble Houses of Potter, Black, Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Peverell, and Hufflepuff, Lord of the Wizengamot. I swear by my magic and life that I will uphold my duties to do right and protect the rights of Magical Beings. So I swear—SO MOTE IT BE," Hadrian announced, his voice resolute and unwavering, silencing any potential dissent before it could begin.
With that, he asserted his claim to another seat, "I, Hadrian James Aries Potter-Black, now claim, by right of conquest, the title of Lord of the Most Ancient and Noble House of Slytherin, Lord of the Wizengamot. I swear on my magic and life that I will uphold my duties to do right and protect the rights of Magical Beings. So I swear—SO MOTE IT BE." The seats blazed to life, pulsating with magical confirmation of his declaration. In a flourish of will, he conjured a chair, grander and more opulent than the rest, setting it in the middle, a symbol of his newfound authority. His friends, companions, and family shared proud smiles at his display of confidence, while Hadrian couldn't help but smirk at their admiration.
"Now that the new Lords and Ladies have assumed their mantles, we shall proceed to the next order of business. The court is now in session," Mr. Greengrass intoned solemnly, his voice cutting through the murmurs of the chamber. "We gather here to deliberate the case of Hadrian Potter vs Molly No-Name, Ginerva No-Name, Ronald No-Name, and Hermione Granger for Theft, Manipulation, and Administering Potions to Gain Control of Lord Potter over the last seven years." He paused, allowing the weight of the allegations to sink in, letting the chamber settle into a tense silence thick with anticipation.
"Everyone will maintain silence unless you are given the chance to speak," declared Regent Augusta Longbottom, the Presiding Chief Witch for the session. Her voice echoed through the chamber, commanding immediate attention. "This case is brought forth by Hadrian Potter, who seeks justice against his offenders. How do you plead, Ms Molly No-Name, Ms Ginerva No-Name, Ms Ronald No-Name, and Ms Hermione Granger?"
However, before anyone could respond, a voice emerged from the crowd, surprising the Wizengamot assembly. It was Alessandro, his authoritative tone cutting through the tension in the air.
"If you intend to discuss my client, you will address him by his rightful title, which is now Lord Potter-Black, as he has graciously permitted the use of those titles in light of his extensive heritage," Alessandro stated firmly, then settled back into his seat. He nodded slightly with Hadrian, who responded with a smirk, much to Augusta's growing frustration.
"Very well, Lord Potter-Black. The charges against the first offender, Molly No-Name—formerly known as Molly Weasley, née Prewitt—along with Ginerva No-Name—formerly Ginerva Weasley, née Prewitt—Ronald No-Name—formerly Ronald Weasley, née Prewitt—and Hermione Granger, include line theft, monetary theft, and conspiracy to commit murder. How do you plead?"
"Not guilty!" they proclaimed together, a haughty confidence lacing their voices. They were banking on Albus Dumbledore to swoop in at the last moment to bail them out. Hadrian couldn't help but smirk at their misplaced faith, a mirthful glint in his eyes mirrored by his family. Meanwhile, the remaining Weasleys and Hermione's parents watched in despair, aware of the folly in their arrogance.
"Very well," Augusta replied, her voice icy with determination. "Since these are grave criminal offences against the Most Ancient and Noble houses, we shall proceed with a vote on the administration of Veritaserum and a magical oath." An Unspeakable stepped forward solemnly, preparing to oversee the proceedings.
The first to undergo the serum was Hermione Granger. The atmosphere grew charged with tension as questions began.
"What is your full name?" the Unspeakable prompted with authority.
"Hermione Jean Granger," she replied, her voice steady though apprehensive.
"Where did the Sorting Hat wish to place you during your first year at Hogwarts?"
"Ravenclaw."
"Have you received funds and books from the Potter vaults?"
"Yes."
"Who authorised these transactions, and from when?"
"Dumbledore authorised them before Lord Potter arrived at Hogwarts alongside us."
The questions continued, unveiling layers of manipulation. "How did you first encounter Dumbledore, and what did he ask of you?"
"He met me on my tenth birthday in the park behind my home. He explained that I was a witch and that the peculiar occurrences around me were a manifestation of magic. He wanted me to befriend Potter and Ronald, who accompanied him, instructing us to gather information on him and report back so that he could eliminate Potter once Voldemort was vanquished, enabling us to claim his possessions and wealth."
The courtroom fell silent, shock reverberating through the audience. "Are you aware that Albus Dumbledore is alive?"
"Yes, I know he is alive."
"Who were you conspiring to murder, and what was your reasoning?"
"Harry Potter. As I mentioned, he was foolish and unworthy. We intended to kill him after he returned alive from battle to seize control of his legacy."
"Administer the antidote to Ms. Granger and prepare to question Ginerva," Augusta commanded, her voice unwavering. Ginerva took her place in the chair, visibly tense.
"What is your full name?"
"Ginerva No-Name, formerly Ginerva Molly Weasley-Prewitt."
"What is your age?"
"Sixteen years."
"Have you been receiving money and books from the Potter vaults?"
"Yes."
"Who authorised these transactions, and when did they start?"
"Dumbledore authorised them, starting when the Dark Lord killed the elder Potters, and Potter was placed with his Muggle relatives."
"Are you aware that Albus Dumbledore is still alive?"
"Yes, I know."
"Why were you conspiring to kill, and who was involved?"
"Harry Potter. Dumbledore and my mother told me he needed to die."
"What was your role in this conspiracy, and what would you gain from it?"
"My role was to conceive a child before Potter's death so that once the child turned five, I would kill him and assume control over his wealth and everything else, gaining fame as the Chosen One and the title of Lady Potter."
With a slight wave of her hand, Augusta directed the Unspeakable to administer the antidote and prepare to question Ronald, whose face was pale with shock but steeling himself nonetheless.
"What is your name?"
"Ronald No-Name, formerly Ronald Weasley-Prewitt."
"Where did the Sorting Hat wish to place you in your first year?"
"Hufflepuff."
"Ronald, did you receive funds from Potter's vaults without his knowledge?"
"Yes, he remains unaware of the withdrawals from his vaults."
"Do you know where Albus Dumbledore is currently located?"
"He is in his hometown."
"Why did you receive money from the Potter vaults, and who authorised it? When did this start?"
"To spy on Potter. Dumbledore authorised it, beginning the night the elder Potters were murdered."
The revelations continued, leading to Molly's turn. While her answers echoed Ronald's, the final inquiry brought the room to a chilling standstill.
"Do you know the location of Albus Dumbledore's hometown?"
"Yes, it's Mould-on-the-Wold."
"On whose suggestion did you conspire to murder Harry Potter, and why did he instruct you to do this?"
"Albus Dumbledore said it was for the greater good."
"Whose greater good?"
As the tension in the chamber reached a boiling point, everyone felt the trial's ramifications.
"For the greater good of His and Our family, though it is masked as a decree for the Wizarding World's welfare," the heavy air of the chamber reverberated with the weight of Augusta's declaration. As Molly was administered an antidote, the defendants were escorted to a separate cubicle enveloped in a silencing charm, isolating them from the deliberations of the Wizengamot. Two agonising hours were passed, filled with whispered judgments and consequential deliberations.
"Hermione Granger, step forward!" Augusta commanded, her voice echoing throughout the hall. Hermione advanced, her heart pounding as her parents watched with anxious eyes, their unspoken fears palpable in the tense atmosphere.
Augusta's voice cut through the silence like a blade. "As your punishment, your wand will be snapped, your magical core will be forcibly extracted, and your memories of the magical world will be obliterated. You will lead a life as a Muggle, and any future generations of your family will be barred from attending magical institutions, as their magic will be bound along with yours. Additionally, your parents will be obligated to repay the amount you took from the Potter Vault." As the final words echoed, Hermione erupted into screams of despair, tears streaming down her face. Her mother's sharp slap silenced her, and she was dragged away, following her father and an Auror, who guided her out of the chamber.
"Ginerva," Augusta continued, her gaze unwavering. "You are, at this moment, sentenced to have your wand snapped. You will spend two years in a lower-security prison, assuming the caretaker role at Hogwarts, replacing Filch, until you turn twenty. You will face the Dementor's Kiss if you ever attempt to harm Lord Potter, his family, companions, or friends again." Ginerva, subdued, exited the chamber, staring blankly ahead, an unreadable expression on her face.
"Ronald," Augusta's voice rang out next, meeting his defiant glare. "Your wand will also be snapped, and you will serve a five-year sentence in maximum security. Following your release, you will remain on probation for the rest of your life, working as a caretaker at the Wizarding Orphanage. Step out of line again, and you will be sent through the veil." Ronald stalked out, shooting a venomous glance at Hadrian, who merely waved back with a triumphant grin, delighting in his perceived victory.
Turning to Molly, Augusta's voice remained steady and unyielding. "Your wand will also be snapped, your magical core ripped from you. You will serve fifteen years in a maximum-security prison, followed by a lifetime of probation. Additionally, you will assist at St. Mungo's, catering to the needs of the injured and ill without complaint. Should you attempt any further misconduct, remember the veil awaits." With that final decree, the chamber dispersed, leaving Hadrian and his companions to relax in their seats, exchanging smirks and laughter as they revelled in the aftermath of the day's judgments.