"Mr. Potter, I'm a reporter from The Daily Prophet. What are your personal thoughts on the charges the Ministry of Magic has brought against you?"
"Mr. Potter, I'm from France. Could you tell us what your motive was for harming an innocent Muggle?"
"Was this a premeditated murder, or did you simply think it was amusing?"
"What roles did Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger play in this murder? Were they your accomplices?"
"As the legendary figure who defeated Voldemort, how do you feel about your current predicament?"
"Say something, Mr. Potter! How do you intend to defend yourself?"
Amid one excited howl after another and face after nearly crazed face, Harry and the other two struggled through the army of reporters and the barricade the Aurors had set up at the Fountain of Magical Brethren under the escort of the Order of the Phoenix, finally reaching the lift lobby.
"Harry, Harry, Harry!"
Sirius's face swayed before Harry's eyes, his voice reaching Harry's ears as though it came from an entire world away.
"Don't let these reporters scare you, you three. They're only here to enjoy the spectacle!"
Guided by an Auror, the group entered a lift car reserved specifically for them.
Ding—
The lift doors closed, and Sirius, his face livid, immediately shouted.
But neither Harry nor Ron nor Hermione responded.
The three young wizards under prosecution looked as if they had been hit by a Petrification Curse. They merely stared blankly at Sirius, unable to say a word.
"This won't do, you three—"
Remus looked deeply anxious.
"You must keep your heads clear and answer every question from the Wizengamot tribunal accurately!"
"Don't say anything unnecessary."
Kingsley offered his advice.
"There's no need to be afraid. You have to believe that you're innocent!"
Professor Moody roared. Every member of