Before Leaving

The topic of a coup was far too sensitive. Having achieved his goal, Vincent said no more, merely watching Scrimgeour with a silent smile.

The latter went from indignation to calm, then finally to deep helplessness.

Clearly, he was wavering.

"Mr. Scrimgeour, let's leave it at that for tonight." Vincent turned to the tense Aurors. "Time for business. Are you doing this together, or...?"

"Together what?" Tonks blinked her big eyes.

Kingsley covered his face with one hand. "Wayne is asking whether we're attacking together."

The smile on Tonks's face froze instantly. "Are you kidding? We failed even when we ambushed him earlier. I heard Wayne set up an arena at school last year and took down a whole group of students by himself."

Thinking of the Yule Ball, Vincent could not help laughing.

But as he laughed, it turned into a bitter smile.

The easy, joyful days of school were gone forever. Even if he returned to campus, there would be a barrier between him and the others because of his identity.

Being chairman of the School Board was one thing. More importantly, he was a dark wizard certified by the Ministry of Magic.

Vincent's bitter smile made Scrimgeour realize that he was still only a student.

With Fudge handling things like this, who knew how it would all end?

"Wayne—" Scrimgeour's eyes were full of apology. "With your abilities, you should be able to leave Britain before dawn, shouldn't you?"

Vincent was slightly surprised. "Mr. Scrimgeour, what do you mean?"

"Pretend we were never here." Scrimgeour stood and gestured for the Aurors to withdraw. "After dawn, whether you are still in the country or not, I will personally lead the team to arrest you."

"Thank you." Vincent accepted his goodwill.

Scrimgeour might have had plenty of minor faults,