Harry Potter: The Rise Of Malfoy

Chapter 68

The circumstances seemed favorable, perhaps even excessively so—Soren was no fool; he understood that nothing worth having comes without a cost. In this moment, uncertainty swelled within him.

Cleopatra picked up on his apprehension and inquired, "i can sense your discomfort over the overly generous conditions, correct?" Soren nodded in response.

With a gentle smile, Cleopatra reassured him, "There's no need for concern. Your talents have drawn not just our attention but also that of the Dark Magic Defense Alliance and the International Wizarding Federation—"

She paused briefly before elaborating, "However, the Dark Magic Defense Alliance is in no position to provide terms that rival ours. Meanwhile, the International Wizarding Federation has always maintained a lofty self-image, seldom accepting underage wizards. Dumbledore was only invited to join them five years after his graduation from Hogwarts. Keep in mind that accepting our terms means you'll become our representative, sharing both our triumphs and failures. It also means foregoing any future opportunities with the Dark Magic Defense Alliance or the International Wizarding Federation…"

Realizing the competition for his allegiance, Soren understood. The International Wizarding Federation, akin to the United Nations in the Muggle realm, had more influence and global recognition. Yet, as Cleopatra noted, they had opted for a wait-and-see approach regarding him until he came of age.

With chaos looming, Soren knew he couldn't afford to wait. He made his decision.

"Sister Giordana, thank you for your thorough explanation. I've decided to accept your conditions!"

Later that afternoon, Soren attended a grand award ceremony, where he received the "Wizard Scholar Contribution Award" along with a prize of five thousand Galleons, all amid a flurry of reporters. He returned to Hogwarts that evening using the Floo Network.

The following morning, as Soren entered the Great Hall for breakfast, murmurs erupted around him, and he noticed many students clutching various newspapers and magazines.

As he settled at the Slytherin table, Draco rushed over with excitement. "This is incredible! Did you know that newspapers all over Europe are featuring you today? The coverage is immense, and even magazines are mentioning you!" He handed Soren a copy of the Daily Prophet.

It struck Soren that, although the Daily Prophet operated under the Ministry of Magic, it still had to keep up with the narratives from foreign media; otherwise, it would appear strange if British media ignored the accomplishments of a British wizard, allowing other nations' outlets to take the spotlight.

Soren glanced at the newspaper, where the front cover showcased a lively image of him receiving the "Wizard Scholar Contribution Award," beaming and waving. The article explained his reason for visiting the Medieval European Wizarding Federation to accept the award—his significant contributions to enhancing the Patronus Spell.

"Soren Malfoy, recipient of Sir Merlin's Special Medal, Youth Representative of the Medieval European Wizarding Federation, and Most Promising Newcomer according to 'Today's Transfiguration,' was awarded the 'Wizard Scholar Contribution Award' yesterday on Sardinia, bringing honor to the British wizarding community. Per our reporter Rita Skeeter, Mr. Malfoy comes from the esteemed Malfoy lineage and has shone brightly since beginning his studies at Hogwarts three years ago, impressing many professors and publishing a wealth of articles in various scholarly journals…"

Quite the flattering write-up.

Soren turned the page, continuing to read more about his various achievements, including slaying a basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets to save a little girl; recognizing talent and profiting from investments in broomstick companies; triumphing in the Merlin's Challenge competition; and receiving the Sir Merlin's Special Badge…

"It's evident that, beyond his noble lineage and diligent scholastic efforts, Mr. Malfoy has demonstrated remarkable bravery and a firm sense of justice in recent years. Our reporter Rita Skeeter reported that he bravely ventured into the Chamber of Secrets alone to rescue an innocent girl trapped inside. His subsequent book, 'My Encounter with the Basilisk at Hogwarts,' reveals that the creature in the Chamber was a five-star dangerous basilisk, underscoring the peril of the experience…"

"Mr. Malfoy is also a savvy businessman, reportedly yielding over six times his investment in broom companies within a single year…"

"What's more, this year, Mr. Malfoy defeated three sixth-year students and two fourth-years, passed Merlin's test, and received a special Order of Merlin medal…"

Curiously absent from the article was any mention of the Dementors' chaotic attack on the Quidditch pitch, where he had faced hundreds of them alone—likely a directive from the Ministry, which would never admit to a failure of their control over Dementors.

Also omitted were his two instances of slapping Harry—given Harry's fame, that would have made for quite the story, and surely Rita Skeeter would have been interested; however, Dumbledore's influence in keeping Harry's public image unblemished was likely at play here. At this moment, Dumbledore and the Ministry were in perfect harmony, and no one wanted to tarnish the name of their golden boy, Harry.

Soren was not deceived by the public accolades; the fate of those burdened by notoriety, as seen through Professor Lockhart, was a cautionary tale lost amidst shallow glamour.

Yet he appreciated the favorable impact of the reports, recognizing that he now had public support, which was paramount.

In reality, the benefits he acquired yesterday far surpassed what was broadcasted in the papers—within his suitcase lay a shimmering silver Basilisk egg and a bottle of sparkling Felix Felicis. According to Cleopatra, these items were personal gifts to welcome Soren into their community. They had previously asked if there was anything special he desired.

[Basilisk Egg Acquired! Felix Felicis Acquired!]

Daphne walked directly to the Great Hall and seated herself next to Soren, whispering, "Will you have time to visit my home this summer? Dad wants to meet you."

Wow, meeting the parents already? An unexpected thought crossed Soren's mind. Yet, he understood that such a significant achievement opened doors and demonstrated his promise, making it natural for the Greengrass family to want to meet him and reevaluate their alliance.

Soren readily agreed, "Absolutely. Please tell your father I'll definitely visit this summer."

Breakfast proved to be quite a task for Soren, as students continually approached him to offer their congratulations, leaving him occupied with pleasantries throughout the meal. Fortunately, with it being the Easter holiday, he was free from the rush of classes; otherwise, he might have found himself late or even missing breakfast altogether.

After the meal, a senior approached to deliver a message from Dumbledore, summoning Soren to his office.

Once in Dumbledore's office, Soren found not only the headmaster but also two guests seated, enjoying tea.

One was Tiberius McLaggen, whom Soren recognized from their summer expedition hunting Blast-Ended Skrewts, while the other was a middle-aged witch with a square jaw, short gray-white hair, and a monocle, exuding an air of intelligence and capability.

Tiberius greeted Soren with enthusiasm. Dumbledore began, "Allow me to introduce you; this is our third-year student, Soren Malfoy. This is Ms. Amelia Bones—the Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement and a member of the Wizengamot; as for Mr. McLaggen, you already know him."

Soren nodded respectfully to both guests.

Tiberius waved dismissively, signaling there was no need for formalities, as though they were longtime friends, even though this was only their second encounter.

Amelia smiled gently, her serious demeanor softening. "Mr. Malfoy, I've heard about you from my niece. You might know her, Susan Bones, who is in your year and a Hufflepuff. She was right; you truly are an accomplished young man."

Dumbledore interjected, shifting the focus. "Soren, we've gathered you here today because both Hogwarts and the Ministry of Magic believe your achievements warrant greater recognition. That's why the Ministry has sent someone to discuss this matter—"

Soren couldn't help but mentally scoff. Was this their effort to curry favor? Where had they been before? In the past, when Harry or Ron resolved the Chamber of Secrets incident, they were honored with a "Special Contribution Award to the School." Yet here he was, without any recognition, and if he hadn't penned a book on the topic, it probably would have gone unnoticed at Hogwarts.

Of course, Soren kept his thoughts to himself.

Dumbledore continued, "Hogwarts has decided to award you a 'Special Contribution Award to the School' to acknowledge your efforts in elevating Hogwarts's prestige. And as for the Ministry—" He gestured toward Amelia.

Amelia stated, "Mr. Malfoy, the Ministry has coordinated with the Order of Merlin regarding your achievements and has agreed to present you with a formal Order of Merlin, Third Class medal. Additionally, the Ministry will appoint you as a 'Youth Representative of Wizengamot,' granting you a reserve seat. During voting, the views of reserve members are considered, and if a seat vacates in the Wizengamot, you'll have the opportunity to transition to full membership."

Soren studied Dumbledore's expression, then replied cautiously, "Ms. Bones, I have a question."

Amelia kindly dismissed Dumbledore's stern look, saying, "No need for formality. You're Susan's classmate. Just call me Aunt Bones; I'll have Susan invite you over."

At this point, Soren began to piece together the scenario unfolding.

He couldn't discern any real emotion on Dumbledore's face, with his wise eyes still gleaming behind his crescent spectacles.

However, Soren wasn't as naive as Harry; he understood the intricate relationship between Dumbledore and the Ministry of Magic.

While he felt the allure of power, status, and recognition offered by the Ministry, Soren was still a student at Hogwarts. He intended to remain there for a few more years and had to consider Dumbledore's perspective.

Moreover, Soren wasn't devoid of emotion. Unlike Percy, he couldn't detach himself from his ambitions. He had been treated well by Professors McGonagall and Flitwick, making their opinions matter to him.

"Aunt Bones, I sincerely appreciate the Ministry's recognition. However, I've never encountered a case of a formal Order of Merlin medal granted to an underage wizard. At merely 13, wouldn't such a prestigious honor be somewhat premature for me? As for the Wizengamot, I comprehend the concept of a youth representative and a reserve seat, but my understanding of wizarding laws and procedures is limited. If I were to embarrass myself in that context, I worry it wouldn't reflect well in the media."

***

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