Inside the headquarters of the Magical Congress stood a grand, imposing building.
Newt, Thena, and a terrified Jacob were brought into the trial hall.
The atmosphere was oppressive. Beneath the towering dome sat rows of solemn-faced wizard officials.
Standing at the front to conduct the interrogation was Percival Graves, the Magic Congress's Director of Security.
He had a handsome face, but his eyes were cold and commanding.
"Newt Scamander, you illegally brought a large number of dangerous fantastic beasts into the country and caused a serious incident of magical exposure in the Muggle world." Graves's voice echoed through the hall, allowing no argument. "We have reason to believe you are responsible for the recent series of magical disturbances in New York."
Newt hurried to defend himself. "No! I'm not! My animals haven't hurt anyone, and I didn't cause those disturbances..."
"Enough!" Graves interrupted, his overwhelming presence making it hard for Newt to breathe. "Do you think arguing will help? Your case will be confiscated and destroyed to prevent any future trouble. Thena Goldstein, you harbored a criminal. You will be dismissed from your post and executed. As for this Muggle..." He turned his icy gaze on Jacob. "His memory must be erased to ensure the secrets of the Wizarding World are not exposed."
Without sufficient evidence or a chance to argue their case, the three received their "sentences."
Newt's, Thena's, and Jacob's hearts sank, and despair washed over them.
Just as several Aurors stepped forward to escort them away for their "sentences" to be carried out-
Boom!
An invisible force suddenly blasted open the doors of the trial hall, sending splinters and chunks of stone flying.
A figure appeared in the doorway like a god descending from the heavens.
Smiling, Hermione swept her gaze over everyone in the hall before