Each with Their Own Thoughts

Although Fudge wasn't entirely satisfied with the outcome, hearing that Bella—the maddest of the fugitives—was no longer in Britain brought him some relief deep down.

After all, in Fudge's memory, Bella was the most ruthless Death Eater after Voldemort. Back when he worked at the Department of Magical Accidents and Catastrophes, he'd dealt with plenty of trouble she'd caused. He'd even received a terrifying threat from her himself.

"Hmm..." Fudge frowned and pondered for a moment, then gave the three people before him an inquiring look. "What do you think we should do about this next? Especially when it comes to publicity?"

Amelia and Scrimgeour exchanged a glance, immediately trying to guess what Fudge had in mind.

Could Fudge be hoping to bury the story? No, he wasn't that stupid. There was no way to keep this prison break from the public.

But since Fudge had put the question to them, he clearly didn't want this incident to have too great an adverse effect on the Ministry of Magic—especially on himself.

Amelia and Scrimgeour were good at fighting and giving orders, but publicity left them at a loss. So they turned their attention to Anduin.

They knew full well that although Anduin wasn't a member of the Ministry of Magic, he had more influence over it—especially over Fudge—than anyone else. It was only fitting to let him speak. Besides, he was full of ideas and might well come up with a good solution.

Anduin quickly caught their signal and didn't hold back. "Minister Fudge, there's no way we can keep this quiet."

"I know that, of course." Fudge nodded decisively. He cared a great deal about fame and fortune, but he hadn't lost all reason. Aside from how difficult it would be to conceal the incident, he couldn't accept the