Chapter 63 "Skyler's Fame"

The offer seemed almost too good to be true, and Skyler wasn't naive enough to believe in a sky-high deal without any doubts (even though being reborn in itself was like winning the jackpot).

His hesitation was evident, and Cleopatra was quick to notice it. She gently inquired, "I can tell that you're troubled by the generosity of our offer, right?"

Skyler nodded in agreement.

Cleopatra offered a reassuring smile and said, "You don't have to worry about this. Your potential is what has truly piqued our interest. To be honest, both the Defense Against the Dark Arts League and the International Wizarding Federation have taken note of you as well—"

She paused briefly and then continued, "The Defense Against the Dark Arts League can't compete with the terms we're offering, and the International Wizarding Federation is known for its high standards and rarely recruits underage wizards. In fact, Dumbledore himself was invited five years after graduating from Hogwarts. It's important to understand that once you accept our terms, you become our representative and share both the glory and responsibilities with us—this also means you forego the chance to join the Defense Against the Dark Arts League and the International Wizarding Federation in the future..."

With this explanation, Skyler understood the situation better. Several organizations were essentially competing to have him on their side.

On the surface, the Muggle world's equivalent proverb, "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush," held true. Furthermore, Skyler couldn't afford to wait until adulthood, especially in these turbulent times. He made up his mind.

"Sister Giuliana, thank you for your patient explanation. I've made my decision, and I accept your terms!"

In the afternoon, during a grand awards ceremony attended by reporters, Skyler received the "Wizard Scholar Contribution Award" and the prize of five thousand gold Galleons. That evening, he returned to Hogwarts via the Floo network.

The next morning at breakfast, when Skyler entered the auditorium, a murmur of voices spread throughout. He noticed that many students were holding various newspapers and magazines.

When Skyler sat at the Slytherin table, Draco excitedly approached him. "It's incredible! Skyler, do you know that numerous newspapers throughout Europe are reporting about you today? It's not just a small mention; even other magazines have mentioned your name one way or another!" He handed Skyler a copy of the Daily Prophet.

It became apparent that despite the "Daily Prophet" being under the control of the Ministry of Magic, it still needed to take into account reports from other countries' media. Otherwise, a British wizard's achievements might go unnoticed in his own country while gaining recognition abroad.

Skyler glanced at the newspaper. The cover displayed a photo of himself on stage receiving the "Wizard Scholar Contribution Award." In the photograph, he appeared energetic and heroic, waving and smiling warmly at the readers.

The cover story primarily focused on the reason for his visit to the Medieval European Wizards' Federation to accept the award — his remarkable contributions to improving the Patronus Charm.

"Skyler Malfoy, recipient of the Special Medal of Sir Merlin, Youth Representative of the Medieval European Wizards Federation, and winner of 'Transfiguration Today's' Most Potential Newcomer Award, was awarded the 'Wizard Scholar Contribution Award' in Sardinia yesterday. According to our reporter, Rita Skeeter, Mr. Malfoy hails from the noble and ancient Malfoy family and has risen to prominence after enrolling at Hogwarts three years ago. He has earned the favor of many professors, with numerous articles published in major academic journals..."

Wow, it's all positive news, just as expected.

Skyler flipped open the newspaper to continue reading. Subsequent pages were filled with small reports and introductions of several notable deeds, such as his encounter with a basilisk in the Chamber of Secrets incident, where he saved a young girl.

Other stories included his wise investments in the Elreby and Bardmore Broom Company, leading to substantial profits. The paper also highlighted his championship in Merlin's test competition and the receipt of the Special Medal of Honour from the Merlins.

"In addition to his distinguished background and academic achievements, Mr. Malfoy has also displayed remarkable courage and an extraordinary sense of justice over the past few years. According to our reporter, Rita Skeeter, he bravely ventured into the Slytherin Chamber of Secrets alone to rescue an innocent child trapped within. His later book 'Me and the Basilisk at Hogwarts' reveals that the monster in the Chamber was a highly dangerous basilisk, emphasizing the thrilling nature of the entire ordeal..."

"Mr. Malfoy has proven to be a business prodigy as well. Reports suggest that his investments in Ellerby and Spudmore Broom Company have yielded over six times the initial return within a year..."

"In the same year, Mr. Malfoy defeated three sixth-year and two fourth-year students, passed Merlin's Trial, and was honored with a Special Medal by the Merlins..."

Curiously, the newspaper made no mention of the dementors' attack on the Quidditch stadium and Skyler's confrontation with hundreds of dementors.

This omission likely resulted from instructions by the Ministry of Magic, as the Ministry would never publicly admit that dementors could go out of control.

The fact that Skyler had slapped Harry twice in the face was also conspicuously absent from the coverage. While this might have been an interesting story for Rita Skeeter, Dumbledore's influence likely played a role in suppressing it.

Dumbledore wanted Harry to maintain his "savior" image, especially since, at this stage, the Ministry and Dumbledore enjoyed a harmonious relationship, and the Ministry wouldn't do anything to tarnish Harry's reputation.

Skyler remained unperturbed by his newfound fame. He knew that indulging in fame could lead down a troublesome path, as he'd seen from Professor Lockhart's example.

However, he was content with the positive effects of these reports, understanding that he now had the power of public opinion to back him up, which was an essential asset.

In fact, the rewards Skyler received the day before far exceeded what was reported in the newspapers. Inside his suitcase, nestled quietly, were a silvery rune egg and a bottle of gleaming gold.

According to Cleopatra, these two items were her personal gifts and served as a welcoming ceremony for Skyler to join their extended family. The reason for choosing these two gifts was that Skyler had been asked if he had any special requests.

*Rune snake eggs obtained! Blessing agent obtained!*

Daphne entered the auditorium, took a seat beside Skyler and whispered, "Do you have time to visit my house this summer vacation? My dad wants to meet you."

Skyler couldn't help but be surprised by the thought of meeting her parents so soon. Still, he also understood that his recent display of potential and value might have led the Greengrass family to seek a meeting to renegotiate their collaborative relationship.

He agreed, "Certainly, please convey my message to your father. I'll definitely visit during the summer vacation."

This breakfast was particularly demanding for Skyler. A constant stream of young wizards took turns congratulating him, turning the meal into a social event.

Fortunately, it was the Easter holiday, and Skyler didn't have to rush to class, allowing him to fully engage with the well-wishers. Otherwise, he might have missed breakfast entirely.

After breakfast, a senior student delivered a message from Dumbledore, summoning Skyler to his office. Inside Dumbledore's office, two other guests were seated, along with Tiberius McLaggen, whom Skyler knew from a previous encounter during the summer vacation.

The other was a middle-aged witch with short gray-white hair, a square chin, and a pair of monocles, projecting an air of competence.

Tiberius greeted Skyler enthusiastically, as if they were old friends, even though they had only met twice before.

Amelia Burns, the law enforcement department director and a member of Wizengamot, smiled kindly, saying, "Mr. Malfoy, I've heard about you from my niece, Susan Bones, who is in the same year as you, a Hufflepuff. She didn't exaggerate; you're truly remarkable and talented."

Dumbledore interjected, "Skyler, we've brought you here today because both Hogwarts and the Ministry of Magic believe that your accomplishments deserve greater recognition. So, the Ministry has sent a representative here to discuss this matter..."

Skyler couldn't help but smirk inwardly, wondering if this was an attempt to curry favor. What had they done earlier? In the original story, both Tom Riddle and Harry and Ron received a "Special Contribution Award to the School" after resolving the Chamber of Secrets incident.

In Skyler's case, there was no such recognition. If he hadn't documented the incident in a book, it might never have become widely known beyond Hogwarts.

Skyler contemplated these matters quietly, carefully avoiding any visible signs of his inner thoughts. Dumbledore continued, explaining the honors being offered to him.

Dumbledore stated, "Hogwarts has chosen to bestow upon you a 'Special Contribution Award to the School' in recognition of the honor you've brought to our institution. As for the Ministry of Magic..." He turned his gaze toward Amelia.

Amelia then added, "Mr. Malfoy, the Ministry of Magic has engaged in extensive discussions with Sir Merlin regarding your achievements. Sir Merlin has also agreed to bestow upon you the more formal Merlin Class III Medal. Additionally, the Ministry is willing to reward you as a representative of the Wizengamot youth, akin to an alternate seat within the Wizengamot organization. When there are undecided votes, alternate opinions will also be considered. You may even become a full member when a vacancy arises within the Wizengamot, such as a member's death or removal."

Skyler observed Dumbledore's reaction and chose his words carefully as he inquired, "Ms. Bones, I have a question for you."

Amelia responded kindly, "Don't be so formal; you're Susan's classmate. Just call me Aunt Leia. I'll ask Susan to invite you to our home when you have the opportunity."

Skyler began to appreciate the dynamics at play. While Dumbledore's expression remained unreadable behind his half-moon glasses, Skyler understood the complex relationship between Dumbledore and the Ministry of Magic.

Although the allure of the Ministry's power, status, and honor was undeniable, Skyler was still a student, bound to Hogwarts for several more years, and he couldn't ignore Dumbledore's perspective.

Furthermore, he wasn't inherently ruthless and couldn't sacrifice his principles for ambition, as Percy did. He also had to consider the opinions of Professors McGonagall and Flitwick, who had treated him kindly.

"Aunt Leia, I am genuinely appreciative of the Ministry's generosity. However, I've never heard of the official Order of Merlin's medal being awarded to young wizards. I am only 13 years old. Isn't this grand honor a bit premature for me? Regarding the Wizemgamot, I've heard of the youth representatives and alternate seats, but I'm not well-versed in wizarding laws and procedures. I'm concerned that the media might misinterpret this and it wouldn't reflect well on me..."