-Chuckle- Oh, nicely done. I loved the way he plays straight, not bluffing, and doesn't make promises he can't deliver on. I do think Crouch should've been a tad more careful, but, then, when have the stale but pure bloods really showed much common sense? The games he played with removing the Prophet -completely- from Ministry control were beautiful and I'd have thought that would've given some folk second thoughts.
The final burning of Crouch was a most exquisite touch and I wonder how long Fudge and Umbridge will celebrate before finding themselves getting burnt? It should be quite interesting to watch them get it in future chapters.
Meanwhile, Tom is searching for a handle that doesn't exist and I daresay he's going to find himself rather thoroughly surprised, unpleasantly, if he tries anything with "Barone".
Great reading material, here!!