Hermione's dramatically unusual reaction sparked Dumbledore's suspicion. Combined with the whispered conversation between Glenn and Hermione in his office—one he hadn't managed to overhear—plus this critically convenient timing, Dumbledore was beginning to formulate some preliminary theories.
He betrayed no reaction to his growing certainty, offering no commentary on Hermione's peculiar behavior. Instead, he simply observed her performance with quiet fascination, waving his hand to indicate she needn't concern herself with his presence.
Witnessing this response, Hermione released a subtle breath of relief. Dumbledore possessed keen insight—he'd undoubtedly detected her suspicious conduct and was now graciously playing along.
With this realization, she adjusted her scarf, which had shifted during her theatrical stumble, and launched into action. The brilliant young witch pivoted toward Minister Fudge, exclaiming with perfectly calibrated surprise:
"Oh my! Aren't you Minister Fudge from the Ministry of Magic? What an honor!"
"Hello there, delighted to meet you. Ah, Albus, might I ask who this is?"
Fudge blinked with genuine warmth, offering Hermione an appreciative nod before redirecting his attention to Dumbledore.
"This is Hermione Granger, Gryffindor House's most exceptionally gifted and dedicated young witch."
"Nearly one-third of Gryffindor's house points stem directly from her remarkable classroom contributions."
Dumbledore gestured toward Hermione with unmistakable fondness—though rather than mere introduction, the venerable wizard seemed to be proudly showcasing a prized protégé, his weathered features radiating barely contained pride.
He could declare without hyperbole that Hermione represented the most naturally talented young witch he'd encountered throughout his extensive tenure as both professor and Headmaster of Hogwarts.
Furthermore, Dumbledore could confidently predict that this intellectually voracious and ambitious student would inevitably emerge as a commanding presence within Gryffindor House—indeed, throughout all of Hogwarts. Quite the distinguished legacy.
"One-third of house points... and demonstrating zero inclination toward holiday relaxation. She truly embodies exceptional talent paired with unwavering dedication."
Fudge offered generous praise following Dumbledore's glowing introduction, though his expression revealed more than simple appreciation—a calculating gleam flickered beneath his admiring gaze.
The unmistakable look of someone recognizing valuable talent ripe for recruitment.
Cunning satisfaction flashed momentarily through Hermione's warm brown eyes, her lips curving upward involuntarily. Combined with her genuine delight at receiving such effusive praise from Dumbledore himself, the young witch radiated an authentically beautiful smile.
"Thank you both for such generous compliments, Professor and Minister. I shall certainly continue striving for excellence!"
Hermione's response carried a deliberate pause before she lifted her gaze directly to Fudge with calculated curiosity.
"But Minister Fudge, you haven't explained your presence at Hogwarts today."
"Ah, well... that's rather..."
Fudge found himself at a loss for appropriate words. He could hardly discuss Sirius Black's explosive situation with a student.
Just as he prepared to deflect with some innocuous excuse, Hermione struck with perfect timing.
"I'm theorizing this concerns Sirius Black, doesn't it?"
Hermione projected flawlessly timed bewilderment, her inquisitive eyes meeting Fudge's increasingly startled expression with scholarly intensity.
"After all, Sirius Black infiltrated Hogwarts recently, yet the professors lifted security protocols before dawn the following day. You publicly declared in the Daily Prophet your personal responsibility for Black's capture, so logically, you're here to escort Sirius Black back to Azkaban!"
Concealed behind Fudge by a Disillusionment Charm, Sirius Black observed this extraordinary performance with complete bewilderment. This young witch—who clearly possessed intimate knowledge of recent events—was delivering a masterful analytical presentation to the Minister himself, her logic impeccable and delivery flawless. He scratched his head in confusion, caught Dumbledore's eye, and gestured questioningly toward Hermione.
What exactly is this brilliant child orchestrating?
Dumbledore responded with a subtle headshake, silently advising Sirius to observe without interference.
Since Hermione commanded far superior intelligence than Fudge possessed, her reverse-engineered deductions followed multiple sophisticated logical pathways. Her rapid-fire delivery and razor-sharp analytical reasoning left the Minister visibly stunned.
"...Therefore, based on comprehensive evidence analysis, I confidently conclude my hypothesis proves correct. Have I reasoned accurately?"
Hermione maintained her scholarly discourse for nearly two full minutes without betraying fatigue, beaming expectantly at Fudge while tilting her head with endearing academic curiosity.
"...Truthfully, this matter wasn't intended for student awareness, but since you've successfully deduced reality from such remarkably subtle indicators, denial would prove utterly futile, wouldn't it?"
"Consequently, my response must be: absolutely, circumstances align precisely with your brilliant analysis..."
Fudge suddenly recognized he'd potentially disclosed information that might generate significant complications later. He lapsed into contemplative silence, hesitated briefly, then offered careful clarification.
"However, this incident's resolution may diverge somewhat from your current expectations, as we've uncovered certain... 'extraordinary' developments. Nevertheless, rest assured—Ministry personnel will ultimately render the most appropriate judgment."
Excellent. Current circumstances remained well within acceptable parameters.
Hermione absorbed Fudge's response while internally calibrating her next strategic move. The bait had been expertly cast—only the decisive moment awaited.
Hermione drew a steadying breath and prepared her masterstroke.
"I absolutely trust Ministry competence, but I harbor one fervent wish: might you permit me to accompany your delegation to the Ministry?"
"I'm intensely curious about how this 'resolution' might differ from my projections, and I'm equally fascinated by Ministry procedures for handling such complex matters!"
"Honestly, Minister, I genuinely aspire to Ministry employment in my future and would treasure this opportunity to observe operations firsthand. Might this be possible?"
Hermione had finally revealed her ultimate objective, the concealed blade now gleaming with lethal precision.
"This presents certain... complications..."
Fudge's brow furrowed with genuine concern. Ideally, he'd prefer this sensitive retrial of decade-old events remain confidential, yet...
According to Dumbledore's emphatic testimonial, this remarkably young witch possessed extraordinary potential and unlimited prospects, and now she'd expressed genuine Ministry interest...
Undeniably promising recruitment material.
Should he extend this invitation...?
"I pledge exemplary behavior, Minister! I absolutely guarantee zero disruption!"
Detecting Fudge's wavering resolve, Hermione immediately reinforced her position with earnest assurance.
"But surely Hogwarts students cannot depart school grounds arbitrarily, even during weekends...?"
Fudge's tone softened meaningfully. This represented strategic delay rather than outright refusal—he was waiting.
Waiting for crucial authorization.
"Certainly no concerns there. Given Miss Granger's impeccable discipline, her accompaniment would present absolutely no difficulties. Should you deem it appropriate, including her poses no complications whatsoever."
Dumbledore graciously provided the requested endorsement.
But whose agenda was truly being served...
That remained strategically ambiguous.
~~~~❃❃~~~~~~~~❃❃~~~~
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