DISCLAIMER: No one described in the chapters of this story relates to any living or deceased person in the real world. Any references to government titles and such are purely fictional.
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
The Hogwarts Magical Creatures' Sanctuary
"They really are the most misunderstood creatures, aren't they?" asked Luna Scamander, formerly Lovegood, softly. She regularly visited Hogwarts on weekends to spend time with some of the more exotic creatures, and that was where Harry Potter found her.
The Thestral calf slowly moved forward, eyeing the piece of meat in her hand hopefully. Luna smiled as she threw it on the ground. The calf hungrily devoured it, but not before bowing deeply towards the man with emerald green eyes standing before it.
"It's strange," frowned Luna. "I've never seen Thestrals act this way around anyone before. All of them bowed to you, and that is something Thestrals don't do at all."
Harry smiled softly. He knew why. Thestrals were creatures of death. They could sense who he was – the Master of Death. They were naturally inclined to respect him.
"Maybe it's another mystery for you and your husband to solve," said Harry. "How have you been, Luna?"
"I've been great, Harry, thank you!" beamed Luna. "Rolf and I are planning to open a hospital for magical creatures. It's sad that there are no healers who specialise in such areas anywhere in the country."
"That's a very good idea, Luna, I'm happy for you," praised Harry. Taking a deep breath, he spoke, "I'm afraid I'm not here for a social visit."
"I know. You're here for the prophecy."
"Yes. I was hoping you could explain to me what it meant."
Luna paused as she threw the last of the meat towards the Thestrals. With a flick of his wand, she cleaned her hand and vanished the bag. "Prophecies are very tricky to understand, Harry. They account for all scenarios and different people interpret it in various ways. Therefore, we have to analyse it in pieces."
Harry was silent as he gave her his undivided attention.
"The one with the power to restore balance has been chosen ... the one who has already fulfilled the terms of a prophecy, the one marked by the Dark Lord as his equal. The first part of the prophecy itself points to you. Remember, this is Sybill Trelawney, the same Seer who recited the previous prophecy that tied you and Lord Voldemort in destiny. You fulfilled the terms of her previous prophecy by defeating the Dark Lord. Also, as the prophecy stated, you were marked as his equal when he attacked you in 1991. With me so far?"
Harry nodded.
"He shall emerge at a time when the shroud of darkness is creeping along the horizon. This is more difficult to understand because anyone else would tell you that we are currently in a time of peace. Unfortunately, that is not true. In the magical world, yes, we don't really have another dark witch or wizard who wants to take over the government. Unfortunately, as you very well know, the Muggle world is very unstable at the moment. Should they start a war among themselves, it could be catastrophic. Even with former Minister of Magic Archer Evermonde's efforts to prevent wizards from getting involved, magical involvement did take place during the First World War. A small mistake then could have cost us the Statute of Secrecy. Unlike most wizards, I do study the developments Muggles have come up with. Should they start another world war, wizarding exposure is imminent. Their communication devices are a dangerous enemy."
"And exposure would lead to war," sighed Harry. "It'll be so easy for them to blame all their problems on us 'evil' wizards."
"Precisely," said Luna. "The ones cursed by Magic have begun their path to chaos ... the balance shall be broken, the secret ousted, and a holy war shall end it all. This is the part that confuses me. It is obviously referring to Muggles because there is no other secret it could refer to, at least from my point of view. But considering what I have seen in my vision, I'd like to believe that I am right. Cursed by Magic? I don't understand what that could mean. The balance refers to the relative peace between magical species and Muggles. For three hundred years now, the Statute of Secrecy has held. It has protected us from an all-out war. According to the prophecy, yes, the Statute will crumble."
Harry had a dark look on his face. "I don't see any war as 'holy', Luna."
The Seer smiled dreamily. "That's where you're wrong, Harry. War is terrible, yes, but it is something that can never be avoided. It's a part of nature. If you believe everything in the world can be resolved through peace, you're living in a fool's paradise. If everyone can get along perfectly, then society will be stagnant. Such a society can never exist. Peace is a goal, not always a means. Yes, destructive wars are bad for society. Many die, and I truly believe that war must be avoided at all costs. But sometimes, there is nothing you can do but fight your way out. If that's the will of Magic itself, who are we to question it? If we rebel, it'll only lead to our destruction, if not immediately, then at a future date. That's why we have Seers; that's why we have prophecies. It is to help us learn and adapt. You're an eagle Animagus, aren't you? Tell me, what do eagles do when there's a storm?"
"It flies above the clouds and avoids it."
"Yes. And you're trying to do the same by attempting complete separation. In theory, it can work. But what if it doesn't? What if separation alone isn't enough? The Statute of Secrecy has shaped our way of life for three centuries. People will panic without it. It's a fight for the survival of magic, the very fabric of what encompasses the universe itself. The Muggles, in their arrogance and ignorance, don't know that. It's a holy war."
"Long forgotten allies shall emerge, for only two can there be that shall decide our fate. I have met Perenelle Flamel. I know who the Elves are. My grandfather has personally met the Queen of the Elves. They are powerful allies, Harry. And as in any war, there are two factions. There can be more, no doubt, but if you look at it from a dragon's eye view, there are always only two sides and they will decide the fate of the planet."
Harry gently patted one of the Thestrals as he tried to process what Luna was telling him. He took deep breaths as he tried to calm down. The creature he was petting nuzzled his face. He smiled faintly.
Luna continued. "The one chosen by Magic, touched by Death, flanked by tigress and wolf, will be forced to restore balance, but should he fail, Magic shall consume us all. The Saviour of Magic has been chosen ... chosen to fulfil his destiny ... you were marked by this prophecy. That means you were chosen by Mother Magic. Touched by death … I'm not sure what that means, but maybe it's referring to the fact that you are the only survivor of the Avada Kedavra curse."
Harry didn't correct her, nor did he reveal his identity as the Master of Death.
"Even in my vision, I always saw Daphne and Dylan by your side," smiled Luna. "Their Animagus forms are public knowledge; you know what that means. And should you fail, there is always a price to pay. Magic is giving us an opportunity to take care of the threat ourselves. Should you fail, nature will do the rest. None of us then stands a chance."
Harry looked towards the sky. There was work to be done.
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
One month later ...
Potter Castle
Astoria frowned as she looked at Harry's notes. "This … is going to be problematic."
Harry smiled wryly. "Does that mean I've lost your support, Lady Lestrange?"
The younger witch rolled her eyes in exasperation. "Of course not, Chief Warlock," she teased right back. "Unlike others, I would be willing to curse you to express my disapproval."
"I won't have a problem getting this bill passed in the Wizengamot, Tori."
"I know you won't," said Astoria. "But first clarify something for me. You intend to amend the Statute in the Wizengamot?"
Harry nodded.
Astoria chuckled. "It won't work."
"Why not?"
"First of all, the Wizengamot is the legislative body of Magical Britain. That means it is the regional government. The International Statute of Secrecy was enacted by the I.C.W., which is the supreme governing body. You can't amend a bill passed by the Confederation in any of the regional legislative bodies. It'll never be recognized, not to mention it could lead to serious legal problems for you and Lord Black in the future. As a lawyer and a fellow politician, I strongly advise against it. Instead, you might want to fight directly at the international level. Once the amendment is approved by the Confederation and is signed by the Supreme Mugwump, the various Ministries of Magic are obligated to enforce the law. That's how the system works."
Harry stroked his chin. "So the fight is with the I.C.W.," he said slowly.
"Yes," Astoria nodded. "You'll achieve nothing by bringing this matter before the Wizengamot. Magical Britain is just one country, Harry. It'll get you nowhere. On the other hand, should you table this before the International Confederation, you have a chance to implement it globally at the same time. It's more efficient."
"Understood," muttered Harry. "Get started on drafting the bill, Tori. I'll start lining up support so that the bill will meet little resistance."
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
Platform Nine and Three-Quarters had changed drastically ever since London had been abandoned by the Ministry. Now situated in Godric's Hollow, the newly designed Hogwarts Express looked nothing like its predecessor. Sleek and shiny, the magical train reached Hogwarts in less than two hours. The train had not been scrapped, mainly due to the fact that it had been ingrained into the minds of students, becoming a tradition of reaching the school.
The nearly twelve-year-old Rigel Black stood on the platform, fidgeting slightly. He was already dressed in his new uniform, and so was his best friend, Jacen Greengrass. Both of them had to start school a year late due to having been born after the first of September, but they were very glad that they could attend Hogwarts together.
"Cheer up, mate," smiled Sirius, tapping his son's head lightly with a finger. "Hogwarts isn't as bad as you think. The number of pranks you can pull is limitless!"
Rigel couldn't help but laugh when his mother whacked his father upside the head.
"Hey!" exclaimed Sirius, rubbing the back of his head. "What was that for?"
Amelia rolled her eyes. "Don't listen to him, Rigel. You're better off not being a prankster."
"Not true! How can the son of the mighty and handsome Sirius Black not be a prankster?"
"If you can handle the fact that James Potter's son isn't a Marauder, you can do the same for yours as well!"
Sirius huffed and pouted like a child. Rigel grinned as he hugged his father. "Don't worry, Dad," he whispered. "I'll be sure to drive McGonagall insane."
The Minister smiled as he kissed his son's forehead. "Just don't go overboard and try not to make enemies this soon," he said seriously.
"I won't," Rigel promised. He turned to his mother and couldn't help but tear up. His hair turned a dull shade of grey as he hugged her tightly.
"I'm going to miss you so much, Rigel," whispered Amelia. "Promise me that you'll be careful."
"I promise, Mum."
"And don't forget to call us every night. If there is an emergency –"
"– I shouldn't hesitate to call our bodyguards, yes, I know," said Rigel, rolling his eyes. He had been told this too many times to count, growing up.
"Most of all, study hard, make friends, and enjoy yourself, alright?" said Sirius. "Come on, say goodbye to your brothers. The train is to leave soon."
Rigel quickly made his way to his older brothers. Harry and Dylan had amused expressions on their faces.
"Look at you, Rainbow, all grown up!" teased Dylan. "Think about it. You can change your hair colour to whichever House you will be sorted into."
Thinking about the sorting made Rigel's stomach perform backflips. Sensing this, Harry gently squeezed his youngest brother's shoulder. "What is it, kiddo?"
Swallowing, Rigel looked into the green eyes of his greatest hero. "Harry, do you think Mum and Dad will be disappointed in me if I'm sorted into Slytherin?" he whispered.
"Never," Harry assured him. "They'll always be proud of you, Rigel. The Sorting Hat places you in whichever House it fees you'll be the most comfortable in. It sorts you based on your personality. Both my parents were Gryffindors, and I ended up in Ravenclaw. Dylan's father was a Slytherin, and his mother a Hufflepuff. He was a Ravenclaw. Dad was in Gryffindor, and Mum in Hufflepuff. There's nothing wrong with you being in Slytherin. No one will think any the less of you. Rigel, it's just a House. It's not a life or death situation. You're going to be in Hogwarts for seven years and the world isn't going to end when you leave. Who in Merlin's name will even think about which House you were sorted into once you graduate? I'll tell you – no one! Nobody cares about something as insignificant as this. You have no one to judge you, Rigel. Relax."
"I know going to Hogwarts can be scary," said Dylan, ruffling the boy's hair affectionately. "But all your classmates are scared too, Rainbow. You aren't the only one. They're all nervous. You at least have Jacen with you! Just be yourself, alright?"
Rigel smiled and hugged Harry and Dylan tightly. "I'll call you both later tonight," he assured. "Bye!"
Hugging his parents once more, Rigel got on board the train. Just a minute later, the train rose several inches from the ground, hovering in mid-air. And with one massive movement, it disappeared from view, on its way to Hogwarts.
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
Pandemonium.
That seemed to be the best word to describe any legislative body when it was filled with angry politicians. The International Confederation of Wizards was no different.
"This is an outrage! How could you even suggest something like this?"
Harry Potter was stoic as he sat in his ornate chair, observing everyone carefully. Some of them were spitting mad, others were looking at him critically, while a few others were confused as to why he would propose such a bill in the first place. Half the members were discussing softly, having already been briefed about the bill beforehand. They were not surprised.
There was chaos all around as the Supreme Mugwump tried to restore order.
"Members of the Confederation, please!"
"How dare you submit such a disgusting bill, Mr Potter?"
"We are not kidnappers!"
"I knew he was a bigot!"
"So much for his title of Grand Sorcerer … he's too young to understand the magnitude of such actions."
"Ladies and gentlemen, I'm sure Mr Potter has a reasonable explanation for why he would like to turn the I.C.W. into a kidnapping camp," said Ivan Krum, glaring at Harry. "Well? Do you have anything to say, Mr Potter?"
"I do have a lot to say, Your Excellency," Harry nodded. His voice was soft, but it echoed throughout the room due to the Sonorus charm. "Members of the Confederation, today, you stand here and accuse me of being a bigot. You say that I'm still too young to understand the magnitude of such actions. That I don't deserve the title of Grand Sorcerer for my academic achievements … but tell me, until I barged in on your meeting that took place in London six years ago, you were all culpable of homicide. Each one of you watched as Supreme Mugwump Ivan Krum said that he would kill all those poor children who had turned into Obscurials. A little girl died that day. Have you forgotten?"
Deathly silence and dread crept into the room. It was suddenly cold, very cold, as Harry's magic lashed out.
"I'm not a heartless person. I have children too and I love them more than anything in the world. My wife and I would be devastated should something happen to them. Every other parent would feel the same about their children. The amendment I'm proposing is harsh. That is a fact. But it is also necessary."
Before Krum could dismiss Harry's claims, one of the members asked, "How so?"
Harry took a deep breath. "When the International Statute of Secrecy was enacted, most of the countries separated from the Muggle world completely. In Europe, due to the inter-marriage between wizards and Muggles, complete secrecy was not possible. That led to a separation that was not complete, which led to chaos. However, it also brought about a universal problem – Muggle-borns."
"Why?" sneered Krum. "Do you believe they are inferior?"
"Of course not," Harry frowned. "I'm the proud son of a Muggle-born. I fought for their rights during the Voldemort war, and my adopted father has done his utmost best to increase their standard of living in Avalon. But that's not enough! At the end of the day, Muggle-borns are the ones who suffer the most, beat at the hands of wizards or Muggles."
A three-dimensional image floated before them all. The members gasped in outrage. "This is the type of environment Muggle-born orphans had to grow up in," Harry continued. "The Magical Orphans Act was passed by our legislative body only for the sake of protecting such children. Members of the Confederation, please open your eyes! Complete separation from the Muggle world is beneficial for us all – but did anyone think about Muggle-borns?"
"We have never faced that problem in our country, Mr Potter," said the member from Japan. "Muggle-borns are born only due to wizards intermarrying with Muggles. It is a fact that two Muggles cannot create a magical child. You know this. Witches and wizards in most countries don't interact with Muggles at all. Where then does the concept of Muggle-borns come into play? The amendment you are proposing would not make sense anywhere outside Magical Europe."
"You're right, Madam Sato, but this amendment does not limit itself to Magical Europe alone. Many of you failed to consider the possibility that such marriages could have occurred centuries ago, before complete separation. My mother, Lily Potter, was the descendant of Lord Salazar Slytherin, one of the four founders of Hogwarts School. Her ancestors, way back in the thirteenth century, lost their magic in a tragic accident. For eight hundred years, no one in their family has ever been magical … until my mother was born in 1965. It is a myth that Muggle-borns are born only if there is a close magical relative. The DNA of magical humans can activate any time in such children as long as they had wizarding ancestors. They have not been identified, not been trained, and have been left to live among Muggles. This has been the case for more than three hundred years. How many witches and wizards died due to this oversight?"
Many of them looked horrified as they began whispering heatedly.
"Be that may, there is a chance that such children grew up happily, Mr Potter," Krum said coldly. "It still does not condone kidnapping. This is the most barbaric idea I have come across to date!"
"The Statute of Secrecy was also called excessive and imprudent when it was enacted, Your Excellency," replied Harry stiffly. His eyes were jet black as he turned towards Krum. "You will not understand the pain such children experience, what they go through every time they have an incident of accidental magic. They don't understand because they were not raised in the magical world. Many of them are sent to asylums for being 'abnormal'. Others are deemed 'cursed'. Children are subjected to torture when others brand them possessed. A few unfortunate ones turn into Obscurials and remember that it was only recently, during the last attack, that a cure for that dreaded disease was discovered. Before that, being infected by an Obscurus meant death. You have no idea how it is to be raised by magic-hating Muggles!"
"Not all of them hate magic!" spat Krum. "Just because you suffered doesn't mean everyone else shares the same fate, Mr Potter!"
"Big words coming from a man who was willing to slaughter innocent children who suffered at the hands of Muggles, claiming they had to pay for their crimes. Obscurials don't appear out of thin air, Your Excellency. They were created by magic-hating Muggles who torture witches and wizards. There is a reason we went into hiding in the first place, have you forgotten that?"
"That does not mean we can kidnap Muggle-born children from their parents! I will never allow it!"
"Does that mean the suffering of all those children count for nothing?" spat Harry. "Are we just going to ignore the plight of defenceless children and sit in our cradle of power? Your arrogance disgusts me!"
"Mr Potter, watch your tongue!" thundered Krum. "I shall not be lectured by you! I am the Supreme Mugwump. You will show me some respect!"
"I have not disrespected you, Your Excellency," Harry said calmly. "But the fact that you aren't even willing to think about the plight and living conditions of thousands, perhaps tens of thousands, of unidentified Muggle-borns all over the world makes me question your ability to lead us!"
"Perhaps we should hear him out, Your Excellency," said the member from Peru. "Continue, Mr Potter."
Harry bowed to the wizard, thanking him silently. "My problem, ladies and gentlemen, is the way so many magical children are suffering at the hands of illiterate, illogical, fanatical Muggles. A magical child does not belong outside the magical world! How do you expect Muggles to understand how to raise a magical child and deal with their cases of accidental magic? Levitating books, shattering windows, child Apparition, Legilimency, Metamorphmagus abilities, banishing charms … children are capable of all this! And no Muggle can understand or deal with it! Look at the statistics! Do you know how many Muggle-borns are abandoned in orphanages? Do you know how many others are abandoned on the streets? Or worse, KILLED? We are the members of the International Confederation of Wizards, the supreme governing body of the magical world. It is our duty to protect our citizens! I've said it before and I'll say it again. We are here for the magical population, not for Muggles! When witches and wizards are in distress, it is our sworn duty to act!"
Harry continued. "I know that it is horrible to take a child away from its mother. I agree, once again, that it is harsh; very harsh. But we can make it up to them. Blood-adoption is very much possible. The system has been a huge success in Avalon. A Muggle orphan can be replaced with such Muggle-born children. The memories of the child's relatives and all their government records and whatnot can be modified so that they will believe the new, adopted child is their own. It's a win-win scenario. Muggle-borns will be part of the magical world from the very beginning. Blood-purity will cease to exist. We can enforce complete secrecy! Throughout the world! Muggle orphans will benefit from this. We are providing them with loving parents and a home. How is this barbaric? For the greater good of the society at large, this amendment is necessary."
"Greater good?" hissed Krum.
Harry shook his head. "The phrase is universal, Your Excellency. I did not mean to quote Albus Dumbledore, but I stand by what I said."
"Don't you mean Gellert Grindelwald?" yelled Krum furiously. "Don't think for a second that I believe the lies that Rita Skeeter wrote about my former Master. Albus Dumbledore was and shall always be one of the greatest wizards the world has ever seen. No one can tarnish his name and deeds, mark my words!"
The Boy-Who-Lived ignored him. Instead, he signalled his allies. It was time.
Blaise Zabini and Parvati Patil, both of whom were representing their respective countries in the Confederation, nodded discreetly.
"Let us now vote on the amendment proposed to the International Statute of Secrecy of 1692, put forward by Mr Harry James Potter of Avalon," said Blaise. "All those in favour of the amendment?"
Harry held his breath as wands were drawn. He too raised his wand, the tip glowing brightly. Parvati and Blaise raised their lit wands too.
"All those in favour of rejecting the amendment?" announced Parvati.
Krum immediately raised his lit wand. So did thirty others. The Supreme Mugwump's eyes burned with anger as he was forced to say the dreaded words.
"A special majority has been achieved," he said through gritted teeth. Special, meaning more than three-quarters of the members had voted in favour. It would be nearly impossible to repeal the amendment should Krum desire to do so in the future.
A copy of the amended bill immediately appeared before him in a flash of light. Suppressing his rage, Krum signed it. The sheet of parchment glowed brightly, signifying that it had become official. Every magical government in the world would now have to enforce it.
"This session hereby comes to a close," Krum said as he got to his feet. He quickly made his way to the exit, but not before throwing a filthy look at Harry Potter who stood in front of him.
"Albus Dumbledore would have been disgusted by what has happened here today," Krum spat.
Harry smiled coldly. "Albus Dumbledore," he said softly, "was a great wizard. I don't dispute that. Your affection for your late Master is blinding you to who he really was. His policy was always to sacrifice a few to save many. While I don't agree with his methods and would not follow them, I can't deny that they were efficient. Had he been in my place, he would be doing the very same thing. Unfortunately, Albus Dumbledore was also a fool who believed he was capable of handling and solving any problem alone. I assure you, had he been alive, his interference would have destroyed the world. Learn from your late mentor and don't repeat his mistakes, or you may soon join him."
"Is that a threat?"
Harry's face remained perfectly expressionless. He bowed slightly in respect and said, "Your Excellency," before walking out of the chamber, leaving the Supreme Mugwump seething.
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
Hermione Granger was sitting in the living room of her apartment in Godric's Hollow, slowing sipping her morning tea. She sighed in contentment. Earl Grey … just the way she liked it. Too bad the blend didn't exist in the magical world. The wizards really didn't know what they were missing. Just when she wondered why the Magical Daily hadn't arrived yet, a barn owl flew into the house from the open window. Dropping off its load, the owl flew away at once.
Flicking her wand, Hermione charmed the newspaper to levitate itself while she sat comfortably. Just as she took another sip of her tea, she spat the liquid all over the paper when her eyes caught the headlines.
INTERNATIONAL STATUTE OF SECRECY AMENDED!
Proposal to amend the Statute was passed by the International Confederation of Wizards after attaining a special majority
Amendment revealed to be the brainchild of Chief Warlock Harry Potter
Unidentified Muggle-borns living in Muggle areas all over the planet to soon be rescued and brought to stable homes in the magical world
SUPREME MUGWUMP IVAN KRUM FACES CRITICISM FOR HIS LACK OF EMPATHY TOWARDS ABUSED CHILDREN
"I welcome this move. It may sound harsh, but this change was necessary," says famed entrepreneur, Serena Miller. "This amendment will help wizards as well as Muggles. I applaud Lord Potter for his dedication to helping abused magical children."
"Only now are we fully enforcing the Statute," says Blaise Zabini of Magical Italy, a member of the International Confederation. "This amendment should have been part of the original draft more than three hundred years ago!"
Harry and Daphne Potter donate 5 million Galleons for the betterment of all rescued Muggle-borns
HARRY POTTER – THE NEW WORLD LEADER?
Pandora's Hospital for the Care of Magical Creatures
Now open in Hogsmeade!
Weddings, weddings, marriages all over! Celebrity Quidditch players get bonded!
Holyhead Harpies Chaser Ginny Weasley marries long-time boyfriend Dean Thomas!
Heartthrob Cedric Diggory, Seeker of the Avalon National Quidditch Team, marries Chinese Quidditch player Cho Chang!
Oliver Wood, Captain and Keeper of the Avalon National Quidditch Team married to boyfriend and Senior Quidditch Reporter for the Magical Daily, Adrian Pucey!
Star Montrose Chasers Angelina Johnson and Alicia Spinnet get married to twin pranksters Fred and George Weasley!
RUSH TO YOUR NEAREST BRANCH OF WEASLEYS' WIZARD WHEEZES TO RECEIVE AMAZING OFFERS FOR COUPLES!
Hermione ignored the rest of the news. Her hands were shaking as her emotions got the best of her. Furious tears stung her eyes as she read every word of the article that described the amendment to the Statute.
"HARRY JAMES POTTER!"
Percy Weasley, who was sleeping soundly in their bedroom, was suddenly woken up by his girlfriend's screeching voice. He groaned. Unfortunately, this was not something he was unfamiliar with. His mother, Molly Weasley, had the same shrill voice too, and he and his siblings had all endured it growing up.
Yawning, he quickly made his way to the living room. "What is it, Hermione?" he asked sleepily.
"L-Look at this!" Hermione spluttered, too angry to form coherent words. "I can't believe how – how – how can they accept this? Why are people still supporting him after this madness?"
Percy frowned as he summoned the newspaper to his hand. His eyes widened as he read the headlines. Sitting down on the sofa, he started reading the article. For ten minutes, Hermione was left seething in silence. Finally, her boyfriend put down the newspaper.
"I admit it sounds harsh," Percy said slowly, "but maybe there is some truth to what they're saying, Hermione."
"Truth? Truth? Percy, he's doing this for his own selfish agenda!" cried Hermione. "Not all Muggle-borns are treated badly. Just because he and Lestrange faced problems doesn't mean we all did! My parents – my parents loved me!"
"Shh, it's okay," soothed Percy, hugging her tightly.
"This law will not hold for long," Hermione said forcefully. "People will rebel, and when they do, Potter will have no choice but to take it down."
Percy paused. "Hermione, I don't think that's going to happen."
"And why not?"
"Because this may be Potter's brainchild, but most of the members of the Confederation voted for this. It was passed after attaining a special majority! That means many of them did think it was a good idea."
"That's only because Potter has blackmailed them!" Hermione said hotly.
"All of them?" Percy asked sceptically, his tone turning bossy. "Look, I understand why you're upset. Frankly, I don't like the concept of this amendment either. Let's think rationally. There are three hundred members in the I.C.W., half a dozen members in each group representing fifty different countries, which means every magical government in the world was involved in this. How do you suppose Potter threatened and blackmailed them into supporting this amendment?"
Hermione paused but her anger was making it difficult for her to think rationally.
"I'll contact the Supreme Mugwump as soon as we go to the Ministry," Percy assured her. "He'll surely know what to do."
"You do that," snarled Hermione as she got up, heading towards the bathroom in order to get ready for the day. "In the meantime, I'll give Potter a piece of my mind and tell him exactly what I think of him!"
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
"Welcome to Camelot. The Ministry of Magic of Avalon wishes you a good day."
Hermione Granger grumbled under her breath as she stepped out of the Floo. Unlike the previous headquarters of the British Ministry, the new building in the capital proved to everyone that this was no government that operated underground. The city of Camelot was beautifully designed, with tall buildings, floating banners and greenery everywhere. To the naked eye, it was practically the opposite of a Muggle city, and Hermione hated it. The ban on flying vehicles had been lifted, and she could see many such luxuriously enchanted objects in the air. These systems of public transport were shaped like a very sleek and advanced car – and it was Hermione's only way of comparing this to a Muggle vehicle – but from what she had seen, the inside was way bigger than any Muggle transport she had stepped into. There were also people on broomsticks and carpets. The wide roads were littered with people and enchanted devices here and there.
The city of Camelot was divided into three sectors – the Ministerial sector, the commercial sector, and the residential sector.
Large trees and picturesque gardens dominated the layout of the Ministerial sector, which was built in the very middle of Camelot. The Ministry building itself was large and – strangely enough – shaped like a spiral, though people generally ignored that due to how magnificently designed it was. Members of the Magical Law Enforcement Patrol were stationed at different entry and exit points, monitoring incoming and outgoing activity. Recording crystals danced in the air, providing further security to the heart of Avalon.
Beyond the Ministerial sector were the commercial establishments. Many of the shops in Diagon Alley had been shifted here. But the eye-catching building was most definitely Gringotts, the marble structure still quite familiar to everyone. Ollivander's, Madam Malkin's, Twilfit and Tattings, Flourish and Blotts, Eeylops Owl Emporium, the headquarters of the Magical Daily, and even the Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes, had all shifted their businesses here. The Leakey Cauldron, however, was located in Godric's Hollow.
The old Diagon Alley, like the old underground Ministry complex, had been magically destroyed a couple of years ago. It ceased to exist.
The residential sector formed the outer perimeter of the city, surrounding inner Camelot completely with the homes of its citizens. The citizens of Britain – Hermione wouldn't ever call it Avalon – had taken the opportunity to construct their homes as they wished. They were all marvels of magical architecture, all in different shapes and colours. Some were even upside down.
Hermione grimaced. She didn't really like such designs. It only irritated her, proving that wizards had no logic. Really, those designs were ridiculous! Who in their right mind would build half their house upside down?
As she walked down the familiar path, Hermione once more looked at the towering statues that were erected here. The first was of King Arthur and his wife, Queen Guinevere, smiling softly at them. The king's famed sword was held in his right hand while he held the queen's with his left. Four other statues dominated the layout of the gardens as well; Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw and Salazar Slytherin – the four founders of Hogwarts. From her position, Hermione could also see the massive temple that had been constructed a few hundred metres away from the Ministry complex. It was dedicated to Lord Myrddin Emrys, also known as Merlin, the most celebrated sorcerer in the history of Avalon.
After passing through the security checkpoints, Hermione quickly made her way inside the building. This was where the stark contract was seen. While the old Ministry was dark and gloomy, this was bright and airy, with cream and gold coloured walls and polished granite flooring. A thin band of blue light was visible on the ceiling in all directions. This light would turn red should anyone call a red alert. A beautiful fountain was placed in the lobby, with independent sculptures of a witch, wizard, goblin, Veela, centaur, house-elf, merperson, dragon, phoenix, unicorn and Nundu.
But no Muggle.
The phrase 'Magic is Might' kept revolving around the fountain. Like the previous Fountain of Magical Brethren, any gold donated here would be used for charity. St Mungo's Hospital had been shifted to Godric's Hollow. A bigger, more specialised hospital named Morgana's Hospital for Magical Care was now the leading hospital in Camelot.
Beyond the fountain were two gigantic banners. One of them was of the Minister of Magic, Sirius Black. The other was the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, Harry Potter.
Growling, Hermione stomped her way to the lifts. The golden grills opened, letting her inside. The lifts were thought-based. You had to think which floor you wanted to get down in, and the charmed lift would do the rest.
"Level One, Offices of the Minister of Magic, Chief Warlock, and support staff."
The corridor was decorated with rich wood and purple draping. Ignoring the opulent environment, she proceeded to the reception outside the office of the Chief Warlock.
"Is he here?" snapped Hermione. The poor receptionist stuttered, unused to being shouted at by anybody. Ignoring the witch's feeble attempts to stop her, the deputy head of the Department of International Magical Cooperation flicked her wand at the door.
The door to the Chief Warlock's office opened with a bang. Harry Potter raised his eyebrows in surprise when Hermione Granger walked in. He was not alone. He was entertaining the global head of the Department of Mysteries, Algernon Croaker, and his apprentice, Unspeakable Padma Patil.
Hermione froze when she saw Croaker. She gulped slightly as realization dawned on her as to who exactly was in the room.
"Miss Granger," said Croaker in a clipped voice. "May I ask what you are doing, barging into this room like this? Without being announced by Lord Potter's secretary?"
"I – I wanted to speak to the Chief Warlock, sir. It's about today's news."
"Be that may, you could have waited for a moment and informed his secretary of your presence. We were in the middle of an important meeting. I'm a very busy man, Miss Granger, so if you'd be kind enough to leave, I'd appreciate it."
That was essentially his way of telling her to get out. She swallowed. Hermione was not afraid of Harry Potter, but she most definitely did not want the ire of the global Head Unspeakable directed at her.
"Yes sir," Hermione said quickly. Flushing with embarrassment, she shut the door and took deep breaths. She could feel various protective enchantments taking effect as she was bodily pushed back.
Ten minutes later, she was in her office. What could she do? From what Percy had told her, the Supreme Mugwump was just as stumped as she was. The amendment had been made into a law. There was no going back. How could she stop such a vile thing from taking place?
Was everyone in the wizarding world so small-minded that they couldn't see what was right in front of them?
Hermione paused as an idea occurred to her. Most of the people in the magical world weren't willing to listen to her. If Ivan Krum himself couldn't stop the bill, that meant Harry Potter's hold on them all was greater than they had anticipated. But that didn't mean she had to rely only on wizards to help her. This was about Muggle-borns. Muggle-borns, in her opinion, also belonged to the Muggle world. She certainly believed herself to still be a citizen of the United Kingdom. Therefore, it would stand to reason that the government of the U.K. had vested interest in this law as well.
But Hermione also knew that informing a Muggle about magic went against the law. In fact, according to the amendment, wizard-Muggle interaction was strictly banned, taken directly from Rappaport's Law implemented by MACUSA. However, there was a loophole.
The amendment said nothing about Muggles who already knew about the existence of magic.
HP*SAVIOUR OF MAGIC*HP
10 Downing Street, London
The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom returned to his office after a meeting with his cabinet ministers. It had been a rough day, and he was looking forward to a relaxing weekend. His eyes narrowed once more as he caught sight of that infernal painting on the wall behind the fireplace. No matter what he tried, he couldn't get rid of it.
Damn those blasted wizards!
It was bad enough that he had to deal with extremist terrorist groups that were doing their best to disrupt peaceful life in London, but he had to deal with this too? How could his predecessors have kept such a secret from the rest of the world? But the Prime Minister knew that should he also reveal the existence of wizards to his people, they would call him insane and kick him out of office.
But unlike his predecessors, he had still not kept the information to himself.
For the first time, the Prime Minister was not the only one in the government who know of the existence of magic. The Secretary of State for Defence was briefed about the nature of the wizarding world – or rather the threat the wizarding world posed. A few others in his cabinet had also been briefed about the nature of the threat. Only after Sirius Black had informed him about their secret – cult – did he realise where so many of their country's problems originated from.
His predecessor, after much persuasion, had told him about a war … a war that had taken place in their own country without their knowledge! A war between two wizarding factions with people like him caught in the middle!
That was not all.
There was a Ministry of Magic, an independent government that existed right under their noses, unknown and unaccountable to them. The arrogance of these wizards infuriated the Prime Minister! He was determined to get them under the rule of the parliament, and when he gave his ultimatum, Sirius Black had laughed – laughed – in his face!
The Prime Minister's nostrils flared as he swallowed his pills. His blood pressure levels had increased significantly ever since he had been elected. Taking a few deep breaths, he moved his attention to the mountain of paperwork that lay in front of him.
Just five minutes later, the door to his office opened, and his secretary poked his head inside.
"Sir, can you please come down to the Cabinet Room?" he asked hesitantly.
"Why?" frowned the Prime Minister. "I just met the ministers. I'm done for the day, Jeremy, tell them to –"
"No sir, it's not them. There's someone else here to meet you. She's one of them."
The secretary cast a fearful look at the stationery portrait of an old man. The Prime Minister's expression cleared as he understood immediately. Throwing another filthy look at the magical painting, he briskly walked out of his office.
"Who is it?" demanded the Prime Minister. "It can't be Black. He uses the fireplace. How did this person enter the building?"
"She just showed up, sir. The woman immediately demanded that she speak with you. I tried to call security but she used that – stick – to silence me. I had no choice but to comply with her demands."
The Prime Minister's temper flared as he entered the Cabinet Room. A young woman was seated, looking nervous. She had bushy brown hair and was carrying a backpack. When he entered, she immediately stood up in respect.
"Who are you, and how did you enter this building?" asked the Prime Minister without preamble. He tried to be careful. After all, this woman was an abnormal, unnatural freak, much like Sirius Black. The security personnel had their assault rifles in hand, ready to strike.
"Prime Minister, I'm Hermione Granger, an employee of the Ministry of Magic. I apologise for my unauthorised visit, but I'm here to warn you of a nefarious plot against the people of the United Kingdom."
The man's eyes narrowed. "Go on," he said, sitting down, giving her his undivided attention.