Chapter 118: The Greatest Potioneer
If there was one thing Umbridge couldn't stand, it was being ignored.
She had climbed the Ministry ladder step by step because she loved the spotlight and the awe in people's eyes when they looked at her. Now, she was just one step away from the role of Deputy Minister—soon, she could become the second most powerful figure in the Ministry of Magic. Yet, these people had the nerve to call her "the Ministry of Magic's nobody"? Didn't they realize who they were dealing with?
Umbridge could not tolerate such an insult, and her whole body trembled with rage.
"I am Dolores Umbridge!" she shrieked, her voice sharp, "Director of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, and a member of the Wizengamot!"
"Oh, so you're a director?" Kyle asked, appearing slightly uneasy as he shifted his weight. "Then, you're responsible for those statements you made, aren't you?"
Umbridge raised her chin defiantly. "When I—"
"Ahem, I don't think Dolores meant it quite that way," Fudge interrupted with a forced cough, attempting to smooth things over. "She's simply very concerned for the boy's well-being. After all, wouldn't it be wiser for a young wizard to avoid a werewolf rather than attempting to defeat it?"
"Of course, I completely agree with you, Cornelius," Dumbledore said with a serious nod. "Then, regarding her talk of expulsion..."
"Oh, that was just a joke!" Fudge laughed, waving his hand. "The Ministry wouldn't expel a young hero who's just saved so many lives. Dolores was only trying to give him a reminder, so he wouldn't be reckless next time, right?"
Fudge gave Umbridge a quick, meaningful glance. Catching on, Umbridge immediately plastered on a sugary smile and added, "Yes, Minister, thank you for understanding. These young wizards are so arrogant these days. Just because they score well on an exam, they think they're ready to take on a werewolf! He needs a lesson in humility to help him live a little longer."
"Oh, I'll remember that, Madam," Kyle replied with a polite, if insincere, smile. "And by the way, wearing an outfit like that really makes you look younger."