The same Ministry of Magic, the same Courtroom Ten.
Even more people attended this hearing than the first. The tiered seats were packed solid, without a gap to spare.
Voldemort had only recently fallen, and a large number of Death Eaters were still waiting in line to be tried. At a time when everyone was so busy, it was hard to imagine that so many Wizengamot members had found the time to attend such a minor hearing.
But that had nothing to do with Kyle. Once again, he had secured the right to observe thanks to his Second Class Order, and he sat quietly on the stone steps in the last row.
By coincidence, the two old wizards seated beside him were the same ones he had met at the first hearing.
Unlike everyone else, they seemed to have come specifically for the spectacle and gossip. They had even brought roasted sunflower seeds and a bag of snacks.
"What a coincidence, it's you again." The old wizard beside Kyle smiled and held out the bag in his hand.
Kyle thought about it, but did not refuse. He took a small handful of roasted sunflower seeds.
Just as he had guessed before coming, this hearing was merely a formality. Although there were twice as many people, it proceeded far more efficiently than the first.
Amelia Bones, the Minister for Magic, seemed to be rushing through the process... presenting the evidence, voting, and confirming the verdict in one seamless motion.
She then announced on the spot that Snape was not a Death Eater and withdrew all accusations that he had been one.
Bones also praised Snape, calling him level-headed, resourceful, and fearless. She even promised to nominate him for an Order of Merlin.
Kyle could barely stop himself from laughing. Calling