Kapitel 227: Chapter 227: The Twenty-Fourth Educational Decree
After parting ways with the others, Lilian and Augustus strolled leisurely through the golden hues of autumn. Fallen leaves blanketed the streets, soft and mottled with shades of yellow. Leaves occasionally drifted down from the tall sycamores lining the roads. It was nearing dusk, and the bustling crowds on the streets had begun to thin. Though the area was still a vibrant commercial district, the season's melancholy lent it an air of quiet desolation.
After a period of silence, Lilian finally spoke, unable to contain herself.
"Mr. Augustus, this so-called study group—it was entirely unnecessary for you to agree to it. Setting aside whether it might bring any benefits to you or your family, if discovered, especially since it bears your family name, it could damage both your reputation and that of the Julius family. Your family's position in the wizarding world is unparalleled, but this could provide a convenient excuse for your political rivals to attack you. They might even paint you as the next Dark Lord—another Voldemort."
A gentle smile graced Augustus' refined features. Glancing at Lilian, who seemed slightly chilled, he removed his black silk robe and draped it over her shoulders. As she looked at him in surprise, he gestured toward the passersby and the shouting merchants around them.
"These people toil day in and day out, chasing profit. Where there is oppression, there will inevitably be resistance. This student gathering, modest as it may seem, is a reflection of a broader unrest. Even from something as simple as their purpose, it's clear that Cornelius Fudge and his Ministry have lost the trust of the people. Public sentiment may seem intangible, but it is profoundly significant. From the behavior of Hogwarts' most ordinary students, it's not hard to deduce that Fudge's position is becoming untenable."
He paused briefly, then added with a smile,
"You think this so-called student organization serves no purpose and could tarnish my family's name. Superficially, that appears to be true. However, it's not so simple. Hogwarts, as Britain's sole wizarding school, is home to individuals representing three distinct social groups—nobles, pure-bloods, and commoners. Voldemort failed because he focused solely on the first two, neglecting the power of the people. The masses are like the ocean; ignore them, and downfall is inevitable.
"Meanwhile, Dumbledore, for all his years as headmaster, remains hamstrung. His partiality toward ordinary wizards has alienated him from the upper echelons of society, leaving him politically isolated. These differing approaches shaped their successes and shortcomings. Now, this Julius army represents a microcosm of the wizarding world's three social classes. By tying them to the Julius family, the long-term benefits far outweigh the risks."
He continued thoughtfully,
"Moreover, a student's formative years are the most impressionable. Once aligned with a faction during this period, it becomes difficult to sever those ties later in life. Voldemort excelled in this regard; look at the Death Eaters—three-quarters of them were individuals he recruited during his time at Hogwarts. Had he cast a wider net beyond pure-bloods and aristocrats, his dominion over Britain would likely have been uncontested by now."
Lilian nodded in agreement. By now, the sun had set, casting its final golden rays. The sky darkened to a deep blue, dotted with emerging stars. The autumn wind howled, its chill biting, but wrapped in Augustus' robe, Lilian felt only warmth and security—a sensation she hadn't experienced in a long time.
"It's getting late; let's head back," Augustus remarked as he glanced at the starlit horizon.
Under the dusky blue sky, their shadows, stretched long by the dim yellow streetlights, gradually faded into the distance.
---
On a crisp weekend morning, after breakfast, Augustus and Lilian Malfoy exited the castle. Passing by the noticeboard, Augustus' attention was drawn to a prominent announcement in bold red letters:
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*Hogwarts High Inquisitor hereby orders the dissolution of all student organizations, societies, teams, and clubs.*
*These are defined as any regular gatherings of three or more students. Reformation of such groups requires the explicit approval of the High Inquisitor (Professor Umbridge). No student organizations, societies, teams, or clubs may exist without her authorization.*
*Any student found forming or participating in unauthorized groups will face immediate expulsion.*
*This directive is issued under the authority of Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four.*
*Signed, High Inquisitor Dolores Jane Umbridge*
---
"Educational Decree Number Twenty-Four?" Augustus murmured, stroking his chin.
"So," Lilian scoffed, "someone's already snitched before we've even properly started?"
Malfoy, already well-informed about the study group, was among those Augustus had intended to recruit, alongside Loki Sol and another Slytherin.
"I suggest summoning everyone who attended and testing them one by one with Veritaserum," Malfoy said angrily, his pale face flushed with indignation. "Joining the Julius army is already a privilege for these Mudbloods. How dare someone betray us—they clearly don't know their place!"
Augustus shook his head dismissively.
"The magical contract Hermione used is quite effective. If anyone had leaked information, it would already be apparent to the group. Most likely, the purpose of our gathering at the Hog's Head Inn was merely noticed by one of Umbridge's informants. Judging by the content of this decree, Umbridge's knowledge seems rather limited. Therefore, there's no need to overreact. Let's proceed as planned."
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