bacchusnovels Chapter 276 Leaving the Ministry of Magic
Chapter 276 Leaving the Ministry of Magic
Chapter 276 Leaving the Ministry of Magic
Ayers was pale, cold sweat beading on his forehead, and he gripped the edge of the witness stand tightly. He appeared extremely flustered.
Just as everyone was captivated by the standoff between Scrimgeour and Sean, Ayers suddenly broke the tense silence in the courtroom with a trembling voice.
"Director Bo...Director Bones, I...I have something to say." His voice was filled with obvious panic and hesitation, attracting everyone's attention.
Scrimgeour's gaze abruptly shifted to Ayers, a hint of surprise and wariness flashing in his eyes.
He frowned, clearly annoyed by Ayers's sudden interruption.
"Albert, this is not the time for you to speak carelessly."
However, as if he had made up his mind, Ayers continued, "No, no—I can't stay silent any longer."
He looked at Amelia, his eyes filled with deep remorse. "Director Bones, I must admit that my previous testimony was false."
An uproar erupted in the courtroom, and the wizards in the audience burst into gasps of surprise.
The judges frowned and exchanged surprised glances.
Ayers' words were like a bombshell, instantly bringing the atmosphere in the courtroom to a climax.
Amelia's expression changed drastically, her gaze sharpening as she stared at Ayers: "What did you say? You admit to perjury?"
Ayers' body trembled slightly, but he seemed to have no way out and could only tell the truth: "Yes, my previous testimony was all false! I was forced to give false testimony under the coercion and enticement of Director Scrinker."
"They framed Mr. Sean Phillips."
His words instantly brought the atmosphere in the courtroom to a fever pitch.
Scrimgeour's face turned ashen instantly, his eyes widening like saucers as he stared intently at Ayers, as if trying to crush him with his gaze.
"What nonsense are you spouting!" Scrimgeour practically roared, his voice filled with intense anger and panic. "Do you know what you're doing, Albert? Perjury is a serious crime!"
Ayers looked pained, almost crying, as he said, "I know, I know this will get me into trouble—but I can't keep lying anymore! Director Scrinker forced me to accuse Mr. Sean, and even promised me that if I said Mr. Sean was involved in those murders, he would save me from Azkaban."
Upon hearing this, the judges whispered amongst themselves, and the wizards in the audience could hardly contain their shock and anger.
Amelia's expression turned exceptionally cold. She took a deep breath and asked coldly, "Director Scrimgeour, what explanation do you have for this?"
Scrimgeour's face instantly darkened, and he glared at Ayers, his voice low and warning: "He's lying! This is just an attempt to deflect blame! Albert is trying to distract us!"
However, Ayers shook his head again, his voice choked with emotion: "I've already told the truth, I don't want to lie anymore—I know I'll pay the price, but I can't bear the torment any longer." He looked up at Amelia, his eyes full of pleading, "I'm willing to accept any punishment, but I beg you to investigate the truth and clear Mr. Phillips's name."
As Ayers finished speaking, anger erupted in the courtroom. The wizards in the audience began to discuss the matter indignantly, some clearly furious at Scrimgeour's actions, while several members of the jury whispered among themselves, appearing shocked and uneasy.
"This is absolutely terrifying!" a spectator whispered. "If that's true, then the entire trial was a conspiracy!"
Amelia slammed her gavel, and the commotion in the courtroom gradually subsided. Her expression remained calm, but a flicker of anger ignited in her eyes. Clearly, Ayers' accusations had deeply shocked her.
"Director Scrinker," she said sternly, "given Mr. Ayers' allegations, we must immediately launch an internal investigation. If the allegations are true, you will face serious legal consequences."
Scrimgeour's face turned ashen. He slammed his fist on the table and exclaimed, "You can't ruin my reputation based on just his word! I've served in the Ministry of Magic for years, always fulfilling my duties! This is a frame-up!"
Amelia's gaze was icy as she slowly said, "Whether it's a frame-up or not, we'll let the facts and evidence speak for themselves. But right now, Ayers' accusations are extremely serious, and I cannot ignore them. I hereby declare the court temporarily adjourned to allow for further investigation."
Scrimgeour stood rooted to the spot, his chest heaving violently, his eyes blazing with fury.
He was clearly unable to accept this sudden blow. The atmosphere in the courtroom seemed to freeze, and the audience watched intently as this unexpected development unfolded.
People whispered among themselves, a mixture of shock, confusion, and anger filling the air.
"Court adjourned!" Amelia tapped her gavel again, her gaze sweeping across the courtroom before finally settling on Scrimgeour's face.
That expression seemed to say, "That's enough for today."
Scrimgeour paused for a moment, then turned around, his face ashen.
He walked towards the door without saying a word, and the people around him made way for him, their eyes filled with complex emotions.
Sean maintained his calm smile, as if everything was under control. He slowly rose, straightened his sleeves, and nodded slightly to the jury and audience in the courtroom, as if greeting everyone. Without any panic or words, his composure only made the situation in the courtroom seem more dramatic.
As for the others, they each had their own performances.
For example, Dumbledore's thoughtful expression, Hermione's relief, Tonks's ecstatic joy... and Fudge's appreciation.
As Amelia announced a recess, jury members and audience members gradually rose and left, and the courtroom slowly quieted down.
Everyone had their own opinion on what happened today, and hushed discussions could be heard in the corridor outside the courtroom.
"I never imagined Scrimgeour would be accused of abusing his power. It's unbelievable," an elderly wizard said, shaking his head in disbelief.
"If what Ayers said is true, then this case is not just about Phillips' innocence, but about corruption and power struggles within the Ministry of Magic," another young wizard said in a low voice, clearly confused by the development of the situation.
"As expected, Professor Phillips was framed." Hermione said, excitedly talking to Molly.
Amelia stood in the center of the courtroom, quietly watching people leave one by one.
Her expression was cold and her gaze deep.
She knew that the case had far exceeded her initial estimates, and now it involved not only the innocence of Sean Phillips, but also the fairness and trust of the entire Ministry of Magic.
She... has lost control of the situation.
So, should we sacrifice the pawn to save the king?
But where did the car come from, and where did the handsomeness come from?
As the last spectator left the courtroom, Amelia finally turned and walked away.
The following day, the Daily Prophet's front page featured a striking headline reporting the shocking news of the previous day's court hearing, and the newspaper appeared on breakfast tables in every household across the British Isles:
"Turmoil at the Ministry of Magic: Scrimgeour Accused of Abuse of Power, Phillips Case Takes Another Turn!" — Rita
Skeeter's trial yesterday was rocked by a shocking confession from witness Albert Moore. In court, Albert openly admitted that he had given false testimony against Mr. Sean Phillips, the Minister for Magic's senior advisor, under duress and coercion from Director Scrimgeour. This explosive accusation has sparked widespread shock and skepticism both inside and outside the courtroom.
Justice or conspiracy? The Ministry of Magic is showing cracks. Albert's testimony raises questions about a more complex power struggle within the Ministry. Mr. Phillips' case is no longer just a simple murder charge; it even implicates potential corruption within the Ministry's upper echelons. After the trial, Director Amelia Borns announced further investigation, but her expression and words revealed deep concern about the overall situation.
"We will speak with facts and evidence," Director Burns stated firmly in court. However, insiders revealed that the Ministry of Magic is currently experiencing unprecedented tension, and the allegations of abuse of power against Scrimgeour may only be the tip of the iceberg.
The Fate of Phillips and the Future of the Ministry of Magic: Sean Phillips, a rising star in the wizarding world, a senior advisor to the Minister for Magic, and an outstanding professor at Hogwarts, has been embroiled in a series of murder investigations in the past two weeks. With Albert Moore's testimony, the charges against Phillips have begun to falter. A source close to the case stated, "If these allegations are proven false, Mr. Phillips will not only be exonerated, but he will also receive an unprecedented apology and commendation from the Ministry of Magic."
The Ministry of Magic is in turmoil; where is justice?
The wizarding public reacted strongly to this incident. Many began to question the impartiality of the Ministry of Magic, with some even calling for a thorough investigation of the entire ministry's leadership. An unnamed Ministry of Magic official stated, "We have always trusted the Ministry's impartiality and authority, but this incident forces us to reflect. Has power corrupted our most important institution?"
What's the next step?
As internal pressure within the Ministry of Magic increases, Director Burns faces increasingly difficult choices. Should he continue the investigation?
Will the Phillips case reveal more of the inside story, or will it end quickly amidst external skepticism? The Phillips case is no longer just about an individual's fate; it will determine the future direction of the Ministry of Magic, and even the entire wizarding world's trust in power and justice.
The Daily Prophet will continue to follow this case that has shocked the entire wizarding world, bringing you the latest developments.
half a month later.
The Daily Prophet has once again reported on the Phillips case.
The title was simply: "Ministry of Magic Drops Charges Against Phillips, Jorgins Replaces Scrimgeour as Head of the Auror Office"
Sean put down his newspaper and looked up at Joggins sitting across from him. Joggins' expression was complicated, with unease and a hint of confusion in his eyes.
Despite having demonstrated outstanding leadership skills in the Ministry of Magic over the past two weeks, taking over as Head of the Auror Office, she still couldn't hide her inner confusion at this moment.
At this very moment, Sean is about to leave the Ministry of Magic and officially hand over power to her.
"Are you really leaving?" Jorkins' voice held a hint of hesitation.
Sean nodded slightly, a calm smile still playing on his lips. "Yes, Johansson. I believe you are ready."
He paused, then continued, "Your performance over the past two weeks has put my mind at ease. You've regained your memories, adapted to your duties in the Auror's office, and handled complex matters with ease. Hogwarts needs me, and I feel it's time to go back."
Jorkins frowned, his hands gripping the armrests of the chair lightly.
She seemed to want to say something, but for a moment, all the words got stuck in her throat.
She took a deep breath and finally mustered the courage to speak: "But—you've done so much for the Ministry of Magic, you've been through so much. Aren't you afraid that if you leave now, all your efforts will be in vain? Are you just going to give up on all the things you wanted to change?"
Sean's smile remained gentle. He looked at Joggins, thought for a moment, and spoke softly.
"Jorgins, some changes cannot be made overnight, especially in a large system like the Ministry of Magic."
I'm not giving up; I'm choosing to continue my work in another way.
"The students of Hogwarts are the future of the wizarding world. If they can understand the importance of justice, responsibility, and wisdom, then the Ministry of Magic will ultimately be changed because of them."
Johansson lowered her head. Although she understood that Sean was right, it did not make her feel any better.
“You’re right,” she said softly. “The students of Hogwarts do need you.” She looked up at Sean, trying to keep her voice from becoming too emotional. “But the Ministry of Magic will also be much more difficult without you.”
Sean approached her and gently patted her shoulder. "Jorgins, I believe in you. I know you have the ability to uphold justice and drive change in the Ministry of Magic. You are not alone; there are many others in the Ministry of Magic who share your ideals and beliefs."
Jorgins' eyes reddened slightly. She looked up at Sean and forced a smile. "I will do my best, Mr. Phillips. I just hope that one day in the future, you will see the Ministry of Magic improved because of our efforts."
Sean smiled and nodded. "I believe that day will come, Jorgins."
The final moment arrived, and Sean stood up and picked up his suitcase from the table.
He stopped at the doorway, turned back to look at Jorgins, and said softly, "Take care of yourself, Jorgins."
Johansson tried to remain calm and nodded slightly: "You too, Professor."
Sean smiled slightly, then disappeared through the door, leaving Joggins standing alone in the office.
Bonus Chapter: The Daily Prophet (The following content is not included in the paid word count!)
Two weeks later, the Daily Prophet once again reported on the Phillips case, which has garnered widespread attention in the wizarding world, with a prominent headline.
This news caused a huge stir in the wizarding world. Although the headline was short, its significance was profound. The following is a detailed report of the event.
Since the start of the trial, the Phillips case has become a symbol of power struggles and abuses of power within the Ministry of Magic. Phillips, a former senior advisor to the Minister of Magic, was embroiled in a media storm after being accused of involvement in a series of mysterious murders.
However, with Ayers' sudden confession, the case took a dramatic turn. After a two-week investigation, the Ministry of Magic officially announced the withdrawal of all charges against Sean Phillips, citing "insufficient evidence to convict him."
Many prominent figures in the wizarding world expressed their support, believing that Phillips had been innocently dragged into a political conspiracy. "This is a victory for justice," commented McGonagall, the deputy headmistress of Hogwarts. "Professor Phillips is a respected wizard, and his wisdom and sense of justice will not be erased by such accusations."
Some of Phillips' supporters also celebrated his exoneration in public, believing that Phillips was not only an innocent victim but also a symbol of reform within the Ministry of Magic.
"He represents our expectations of justice, and the Ministry of Magic must learn a lesson from this," a Ministry of Magic staff member told the Daily Prophet.
Simultaneously with Scrimgeour's downfall, the Auror Chief of Staff, Scrimgeour, who had been fiercely assertive and tough during the trial, was also forced to resign due to abuse of power. According to sources within the Ministry of Magic, Scrimgeour not only participated in the false accusations against Phillips but also deliberately concealed crucial evidence during the investigation, attempting to steer the case in his favor.
An unnamed Ministry of Magic official stated, "Scrimgeour, in his capacity as Chief of the Auror Office, abused his position to exert undue influence on the case and attempted to manipulate the trial's outcome. His actions not only damaged the Ministry of Magic's reputation but also plunged the entire judicial system into crisis."
Scrimgeour's departure marked a power reshuffle within the Ministry of Magic. The once highly respected Chief of the Auror Office was forced to step down due to misconduct, prompting many wizards to question the power struggles within the Ministry's upper echelons.
The Future of the Ministry of Magic: Although Phillips has been exonerated and Scrimgeour has been punished for misconduct, the crisis of confidence in the Ministry of Magic caused by this scandal is far from over. Many are calling for a more transparent mechanism and a fair review system within the Ministry to ensure that similar incidents do not occur again. Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge stated in a media interview, "We must face the fact that the Ministry of Magic did make mistakes in this case. Future reforms are imperative, and we will take further measures to ensure that judicial fairness is not interfered with in any way."
Some experts believe this case could prompt changes in the power structure within the Ministry of Magic. The widespread impact of the Phillips case not only exposed the problem of abuse of power but also made more people aware of the urgency of reforming the Ministry of Magic.
For Sean Phillips, this storm hasn't shaken his resolve. It's understood that he has decided to temporarily leave his job at the Ministry of Magic and return to Hogwarts as a professor, continuing the education he once loved. Sources revealed...
Phillips plans to devote more energy to the education of young wizards, which he believes is the true hope for the future of the wizarding world.
A friend close to Phillips told the Daily Prophet, "Sean has never harbored resentment towards the Ministry of Magic. He knows it's a systemic problem, not a personal fault. He believes that through education, he can cultivate more upright and courageous wizards for the wizarding world and change the future."
Today, Sean Phillips' name is no longer that of an accused wizard, but a symbol of innocence and integrity. His decision also marks the end of an important chapter in the history of the wizarding world, and the future will be written by young wizards who cherish ideals and justice.
The Daily Prophet will continue to follow up on the Ministry of Magic's reforms and Professor Phillips' latest developments.