Chapter 597: Using Rules to Pressure Others—Who Can’t Do That?
Kyle turned his attention to Amelia Bones. Of all those present, she was the main authority in this interrogation, not Umbridge, who had been the loudest and most disruptive participant.
"I do not object to Mr. Malfoy's proposal," Kyle said clearly, "but only on the condition that I receive an official interrogation letter."
"Prior Incantato was my compromise—a way for me to answer to the Ministry on behalf of the Hogwarts students. Beyond that, I will not accept any further questioning unless a formal letter is issued or new evidence is presented."
"As of now, I demand an immediate end to this absurd and unfounded interrogation."
Amelia Bones nodded slightly before addressing the room. "Let's take a vote by show of hands. Those in favor of dismissing the charges, please raise your hands."
She was the first to raise her hand, her posture resolute. While she had never supported this interrogation, she had been forced to proceed due to pressure from Fudge and Umbridge.
Slowly, more hands went up, including Rufus Scrimgeour's. He, too, felt this entire proceeding was baseless. Kyle's movements had been limited to school and home—there was no logical way he could have killed an adult wizard without drawing any attention.
The number of raised hands was overwhelming. Amelia didn't need to count to see that more than half were in favor of dismissing the charges.
"Now," she said, "those who support the charges, raise your hands."
Umbridge's hand shot up immediately, followed by five or six of her colleagues. Kyle scanned their faces, memorizing each one. Unsurprisingly, Malfoy, Macnair, and Karkaroff raised their hands as well, though their votes didn't count.
"Very well," Amelia said, her voice firm. "The charges are not substantiated."