Harry Potter: Archmage of Another World

Dolores Umbridge's first inspection as Hogwarts' High Inquisitor began with Divination class.

The weather seemed to mirror the general mood—it wasn't planning to be kind to anyone. Dark clouds loomed over the solitary castle nestled among the verdant hills and clear waters.

The Divination classroom, perched at the top of the castle, was surrounded by ancient, weathered windows. Through them, one could see fine raindrops threading through the vast, overcast sky. Gray and somber hues painted the world outside, setting the tone for the tower.

Augustus casually picked up The Dream Oracle, the guide distributed by Professor Trelawney. The cover depicted a vague, towering statue. Flipping through the pages, it was evident that the content was primarily about the symbolism and insights derived from dreams. If analyzed systematically, it delved into the origins of dreams, their psychological implications for humans, and their various roles throughout history. However, the scope seemed rather limited.

Even in this magical world, the study of mysticism held significant importance. Astrology, divination, and the predictions of empires' fates often rested in the hands of so-called seers. However, Augustus found little interest in the subject. Even assuming that mystical knowledge had some merit, its utility seemed marginal at best. In practical matters like wars, national policies, or governance—tasks demanding tangible experience and ability—what role could mysticism realistically play?

His thoughts were interrupted by a light tap from Lilian, who sat beside him. Startled, Augustus turned toward her. Lilian subtly gestured toward the front of the classroom.

Following her gaze, Augustus noticed Professor Umbridge emerging from the trapdoor on the floor. The chatter and laughter among the students instantly subsided. Professor Trelawney, who had been distributing copies of The Dream Oracle while the class buzzed with noise, turned to see what had caused the sudden hush.

"Good afternoon, Professor Trelawney," said Umbridge with her usual saccharine smile. "I trust you received my notice? The one specifying the time and date of your inspection?"

"Ah, Augustus," said Malfoy, seated nearby, his gray-blue eyes sparkling with amusement. "Two old witches going head-to-head—this should be entertaining."

Lilian gave Malfoy a sidelong glance and tapped the table lightly. "When it comes to actual teaching ability, Professor Trelawney, who has spent her life in an ivory tower, is no match for someone like Umbridge. I doubt the show will last long."

Augustus stroked his chin thoughtfully, his silver-gray eyes flashing with a peculiar glint. The first inspection was naturally crucial. By targeting Trelawney, whose personality wasn't particularly assertive, Umbridge might appear to have chosen wisely. Yet, in truth, this was a tactical blunder.

Still grinning, Umbridge pulled a chair close to the professor's seat, just a few inches behind it. She sat down, extracted a clipboard from her garish bag, and looked up expectantly, ready for the class to begin.

Professor Trelawney, her hands trembling slightly, tightened the shawl wrapped around her. Through her oversized glasses, which magnified her eyes comically, she scrutinized the class.

"Today, we'll continue exploring prophetic dreams," she announced with her usual mysterious tone, though her voice wavered slightly. "Pair up and use The Dream Oracle to interpret the recent dreams of your partner."

"Well then, Augustus, let's begin." Lilian suddenly seemed intrigued. She turned toward him, her fair face glowing with twin dimples, her deep crimson eyes sparkling with curiosity.

Augustus, who had been focused on the interaction between Umbridge and Trelawney, was caught off guard. "Begin? Begin what?"

"Dreams, of course," Lilian replied with a faint smile, her eyes gleaming with interest.

Clearing his throat, Augustus feigned deep contemplation. "Hmm, let me think. Oh, yes. Last night, I dreamed I donned the uniform of the Ministry of Magic and became an esteemed Auror. I spent my days valiantly protecting the wizarding world. Though the scenes in the dream were somewhat blurred, most of it revolved around my tireless battles against dark wizards. Truly, being an Auror is a noble profession."

Lilian pursed her lips and stared at Augustus, her expression utterly blank.

"Cough," Augustus said awkwardly. "Well, I admit it's not a particularly amusing story, but that's genuinely what I dreamed about."

With a resigned sigh, Lilian said, "Augustus, I suggest you keep your distance from Malfoy. At this rate, his penchant for absurdity is bound to rub off on you."

"Hmm? Someone mentioned me?" Malfoy leaned over with a shameless grin, his eyes flitting between Augustus and Lilian.

Augustus shot Malfoy a look of profound despair before sighing again. "Nothing. Lilian and I were just complimenting you."

Feeling inexplicably cold for a moment, Malfoy glanced at Neville, who was nervously fumbling at a distance. Satisfied for no apparent reason, he turned back to his desk with a smug smile.

At the front of the class, Umbridge's saccharine voice carried over. Augustus discreetly cast a sound amplification charm to better hear.

"Well," Umbridge said, looking at Trelawney, "exactly how long have you held this post?"

Professor Trelawney glared at her, crossing her arms defensively and raising her shoulders as if to shield herself from the invasive questioning. She hesitated briefly, seemingly deciding the inquiry wasn't too outrageous to answer. In an indignant tone, she replied, "About sixteen years."

"A considerable tenure," Umbridge remarked, jotting down notes on her clipboard.

"You are the great-great-granddaughter of the renowned Seer Cassandra Trelawney?"

"Yes," Trelawney said, lifting her chin defiantly.

"Of course," Umbridge cooed, taking more notes. "Well, then, perhaps you could provide me with a prediction. Hmm?"

Trelawney stiffened as though she hadn't heard correctly. "I beg your pardon?" she said, clutching the shawl around her thin neck.

"I'd like you to make a prediction for me," Umbridge repeated, her sugary smile unwavering.

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