Fudge's Investment

Headmaster's Office.

Dumbledore sat on one side of the large desk, with Fudge seated opposite him.

Umbridge and the two Aurors led by Delores remained standing.

The Minister's secretary and guards.

Knock, knock—

"Come in."

When Vincent entered, he found the atmosphere between them fairly pleasant.

At least, it appeared that way on the surface.

"Oh—if it isn't our rising star!" Fudge enthusiastically rose to his feet and gave him a big hug.

As a qualified politician, every gesture he made carried deeper meaning.

Vincent returned the enthusiasm in kind. "Minister Fudge, you're making me blush."

"Really? Haha—" Fudge lightly patted him on the shoulder. "I'm not one for empty politeness. You've already proven yourself worthy of that title."

"It was only luck, Mr. Minister."

After exchanging a little flattery, Vincent obediently sat down beside Dumbledore.

"That is what I just told you. If you have any questions, Vincent can provide the details."

Fudge narrowed his eyes and posed his first question. "Child, can you confirm that the diary belonged to him? I mean conclusive evidence, not mere speculation."

"I can, Mr. Minister." Vincent placed the diary, nearly split in two, on the table.

"This is physical evidence. It should still retain traces of Dark Magic."

As Fudge picked up the diary, Vincent discreetly winked at Dumbledore.

"I also have witnesses, and quite a few of them."

"Oh? Who?"

"The people who attended Lockhart's signing event over the summer, the Death Eaters held in Azkaban, and a House-elf."

Fudge had heard something about what happened over the summer.

His "good friend" Lucius had once suggested that he revoke Lockhart's Order of Merlin.

"Professor Dumbledore was actually the one who reminded me of all this." Vincent gave him another harmless-looking wink.

"Thanks to your reminder, I was able to connect everything."