Hogwarts — One Week After the Order of Merlin
Hogwarts had never been so… crowded.
Foreign accents echoed through the corridors.
Different magical signatures brushed against the castle wards.
Keith noticed it immediately.
Ciel, they're here already, aren't they?
Ciel(amused):
Yes, Master.
Three Ministry-level delegations, two intelligence observers, and one group pretending to be "cultural attachés."
Keith sighed softly.
I just wanted breakfast…
International Delegations Arrive
🇫🇷 France — Ministère des Affaires Magiques
The French delegation arrived first.
Elegant robes.
Polite bows.
Refined magic.
At their head stood Minister Éloise Montagne, who smiled warmly upon seeing Keith.
"Lord Runcandel," she greeted in fluent English, then switched smoothly to French.
"It brings us pride to see the descendant of Lucian Runcandel, former French Minister of Magic, honored by the world."
Keith blinked slightly.
So that's why they're smiling so much…
She continued.
"France remembers House Runcandel's reforms—mage rights, academy protections, and non-lethal spellcraft.
We consider your success… familial."
A diplomatic way of saying:
France is on your side.
She placed a sealed letter on the table.
"Should you ever wish to study or teach in France—our doors are open."
Keith bowed politely.
"Thank you, Minister. I'll remember that."
Dumbledore smiled knowingly.
🇺🇸 MACUSA — Magical Congress of the United States
The atmosphere shifted the moment MACUSA arrived.
Their magic was… heavier.
Protective.
At their head stood Director Eleanor Graves, eyes sharp, posture military-straight.
She didn't waste time.
"Keith Argus Runcandel," she said.
"MACUSA formally acknowledges its outstanding debt to House Runcandel."
Whispers spread.
She continued calmly.
"Your family's intervention during the Salem Reconstruction prevented a magical civil war."
Keith tilted his head.
Ancestor, what exactly did you do…?
Graves placed a badge on the table.
"This is not an offer of employment."
She met Keith's eyes.
"It is a declaration."
"If any nation attempts coercion, detainment, or political pressure—
MACUSA will respond."
Silence.
Fudge, present in the corner, went pale.
Keith blinked.
"…Thank you?"
Graves gave a rare smile.
"Enjoy being a child, Lord Runcandel. We'll handle the adults."
The Ministry's "Offer"
Later that afternoon.
Dumbledore's office.
Fudge sat stiffly.
Across from him: Keith, calm as ever.
"We believe," Fudge began, "that someone of your talents would benefit from early integration into the Ministry—"
Keith raised a hand politely.
"Minister Fudge."
Fudge paused.
"I appreciate the offer."
A pause.
"But I decline."
Simple.
Clear.
Polite.
Fudge forced a smile.
"May I ask why?"
Keith met his eyes.
"I'm twelve."
A beat.
"I have classes, friends, and people I care about."
Another pause.
"And I don't want my magic used as a political trophy."
The room went cold.
Dumbledore said nothing—but his eyes gleamed with approval.
Fudge swallowed.
"Of course. Entirely understandable."
Keith smiled gently.
"I hope we can still cooperate when appropriate."
Translation:
I'm not yours.
Political Targeting Begins
The backlash was immediate.
Wizengamot Murmurs
Certain houses began whispering:
"Too powerful for his age.""A threat to stability.""Needs oversight."
Names attached:
MalfoyNottFlintCarrow
Ciel summarized it neatly.
Ciel:
They are attempting narrative control through fear framing.
Keith sighed.
I really hate politics…
The Shields Close In
Before anything could escalate—
France issued a statement:
"House Runcandel remains under France's diplomatic respect."
MACUSA issued another:
"Any hostile action toward Keith Argus Runcandel will be considered an international incident."
Amelia Bones spoke in the Wizengamot:
"If we start hunting children for brilliance, we've already lost."
Silence followed.
Fudge realized something horrible:
He wasn't in control.
Private Moment — Hufflepuff Common Room
Rias sat beside Keith, leaning into him.
"They're scared of you," she said softly.
Keith shook his head.
"I don't want them scared."
Daphne smiled calmly.
"Then that's exactly why they should be."
Susan squeezed his hand.
"We've got you."
Keith smiled genuinely.
Maybe… I can be lazy after all.