Cooperation! Dumbledore Was Already Surrounded on All Sides

Things had many facets; viewed from different angles, they led to different conclusions.

Scrimgeour was in exactly that situation now.

Without the crucial intelligence regarding Horcruxes, no matter how one looked at it, Dumbledore was highly suspicious.

Of course, that was also the downside of preconceived notions.

Scrimgeour viewed Dumbledore through the lens of conspiracy theories. With all those coincidences piling up, a massive "conspiracy" naturally took shape.

As for Andy...

In Scrimgeour's view, Andy was too young. Even if Andy truly had ambitions, there was little he could accomplish at barely over ten years old.

What adult would throw in their lot with a little wizard? At most, they would have their own child approach him as a classmate first, to see whether Andy's talent and ambitions aligned with their family's interests before considering any investment.

"Phew..."

Taking a deep breath, Scrimgeour had a rough grasp of the situation.

Next, he needed to verify his suspicions.

First, would Dumbledore's manhunt fail? Second, would Grindelwald's strength increase dramatically?

Lastly, and most crucially, if the manhunt failed, what would Dumbledore do next? At that thought, Scrimgeour suddenly turned to look at Andy.

He could not defeat Dumbledore.

Neither could the Ministry of Magic.

So he needed a powerful ally.

"Mr. Collins..."

Scrimgeour said flatly, "I am quite willing to believe that you have nothing to do with Skeeter. But... unfortunately, many Death Eaters believe she works for you, and that you ordered her to publish that article."

"...In seven days, the Magical Law Enforcement Department will put the Death Eaters on trial."

As he spoke, Scrimgeour stared fixedly at Andy, as if trying to spot some sign of panic on his face.

Unfortunately, Andy showed no expression at all.

"This is very disadvantageous for you."

Scrimgeour continued, "Although there are some