Harry Potter and the Deep Freeze

The Ministry's Stance

The grand conference room in the Ministry of Magic was filled with murmurs as high-ranking officials and department heads gathered at the request of Minister Kingsley Shacklebolt. The table was surrounded by representatives from key divisions: Magical Law Enforcement, International Magical Cooperation, Magical Creatures, and more.

Kingsley, calm and composed, stood at the head of the table, his hands resting lightly on the polished wood.

"We've seen a great many changes since the frost began," he began, his deep voice cutting through the whispers. "Sanctuaries have formed worldwide, providing protection and leadership. Now, those sanctuaries are organizing into what they're calling the Global Sanctuary Alliance—the GSA."

A murmur spread around the room, some in curiosity, others in uncertainty.

Kingsley continued, "The GSA is shaping itself into a governing body, uniting sanctuaries across the globe. This is a new kind of power—one that could rival our own."

The Ministry's Decision

Amelia Bones, head of Magical Law Enforcement, leaned forward. "Are you suggesting we align ourselves with this alliance? Surely the Ministry must maintain its sovereignty."

"I agree," chimed in another official. "But we can't ignore them, either. If these sanctuaries grow too powerful, they might undermine everything we've built."

Kingsley held up a hand, silencing the room. "The Ministry will remain neutral. That is our decision. We will neither interfere with the sanctuaries nor align ourselves directly with the GSA. Instead, we will offer something far more valuable: a neutral zone."

The room fell silent as the weight of his words sank in.

"The Ministry will become the neutral ground for the GSA," Kingsley explained. "Meetings, auctions, negotiations—any gathering of their leaders can take place here, under our protection. We will act as mediators if needed, but we will not take sides."

Amelia frowned. "That's a delicate position to hold. Neutrality can be mistaken for weakness."

"Not if we manage it correctly," Kingsley replied. "By remaining neutral, we ensure the sanctuaries see us as a trusted intermediary. We don't risk conflict, but we don't alienate ourselves either."

The Letters

After the meeting concluded, Kingsley summoned his personal assistant. "Prepare letters to the sanctuary leaders. Invite them to an in-depth meeting here at the Ministry. It's time they understood our position directly."

Within hours, owls were dispatched, carrying official invitations sealed with the Ministry's crest.

The Sanctuary Leaders Arrive

A few days later, the leaders of the world's sanctuaries gathered in the Ministry's largest meeting hall. Harry arrived early, accompanied by Draco, Neville, and Luna. The hall was a blend of grandeur and formality, with long, polished tables and enchanted chandeliers casting a warm glow.

Natalia Ivanova, Zhang Yi, Amara Diop, Hugo Frey, and others arrived shortly after, exchanging polite greetings as they took their seats.

Kingsley entered with his staff, the room falling silent as he stood at the head of the table.

"Thank you all for coming," Kingsley began. "The Ministry has observed the formation of the Global Sanctuary Alliance with great interest. We recognize the importance of what you're building—and the potential it holds for the magical world."

He paused, his gaze sweeping the room. "The Ministry's position is clear: we will remain neutral. We will not interfere in your governance, but we will provide a neutral zone for your activities. This hall, and others like it, will be available for your meetings, auctions, and negotiations. If disputes arise, we will act as mediators when requested."

Kingsley stepped back slightly. "The Ministry personnel present will now leave the room, so you may discuss this amongst yourselves. When you're ready, call us back, and we'll formalize the arrangement."

With that, Kingsley and his staff exited, leaving the sanctuary leaders alone.

Harry's POV – The Leaders' Discussion

As soon as the doors closed, the sanctuary leaders turned to each other.

"This is an interesting move," Natalia said, her sharp tone betraying a hint of suspicion. "Neutrality is convenient for them, but is it practical?"

Zhang Yi nodded. "They stand to gain a lot by being the hub of our operations. But if they're true to their word, it could benefit us as well."

Hugo Frey leaned back in his chair. "A neutral zone is invaluable. We can't hold every meeting at our sanctuaries—it's not secure. And if disputes arise, having a third party to mediate could save us time and resources."

Amara Diop turned to Harry. "What's your take, Potter? The Ministry has a history of trying to control everything. Do you trust this?"

Harry thought for a moment before answering. "I trust Kingsley. He's always been fair and practical. But we'll need to watch closely. If the Ministry tries to use their neutrality as leverage, we'll have to address it."

Draco added, "For now, this is a good arrangement. It keeps us from being divided by politics, and it gives us a centralized location for communication."

After nearly an hour of discussion, the leaders reached a consensus: they would accept the Ministry's offer of neutrality, but they would remain vigilant.

Formalizing the Agreement

Kingsley and his staff returned to the room, their expressions calm and expectant.

Natalia stood, speaking on behalf of the leaders. "We've discussed your proposal, and we agree to your terms. The Ministry will act as a neutral zone for the Global Sanctuary Alliance, but we expect complete transparency and fairness in all dealings."

Kingsley inclined his head. "You have my word. Neutrality benefits us all."

As the meeting concluded, Harry felt a cautious sense of optimism. The sanctuaries and the Ministry had found common ground—an arrangement that could strengthen their efforts in the years to come.

But as he left the Ministry Hall and glanced back at the towering building, Harry couldn't help but wonder: how long could true neutrality last in a world growing ever more dangerous?