Rodrick took notice of his surroundings with a hint of approval, something the Malfoy lord seemed to enjoy. The man certainly knew how to host a gathering. Currently, there were only three of them in the room, himself, Lucius and the man's son, Draco.
Rodrick was sitting, as expected, at the head of the long table, Lucius Malfoy to his right side, Draco next to his father. Something that had amused him to no end, as the holidays had officially ended. The man had originally not wanted his son to be present, however urging from the young Grindelwald had allowed the young Slytherin the liberty to attend, something he was without a doubt beyond grateful for. Lucius had quickly agreed after Rodrick had told him Draco could probably learn a few things from watching, at least it would've been far more noteworthy then what he would've learned at Hogwarts. The promise of teaching Draco himself may have had something to do with it.
After the show at the Greengrass Manor, Lucius had taken him far more seriously than he'd expected. The fact the entire country, or perhaps even world, at this point, knew he existed and couldn't do a single thing to stop him or his plans, it was incomprehensible, especially as Rodrick had actually made the fact he was an up and coming dark lord no secret.
"So" Rodrick started, an amused expression on his face. "I take it this isn't a social gathering," He remarked amused. He had a small idea of what Lucius had planned, it was the day the Hogwarts express would be returning back to Hogwarts.
Rodrick raised an eyebrow when Malfoy failed to respond, prompting him to.
"There were several heads of families who wished to meet with you" Lucius finally decided to say, he reached into his pocket before producing several letters, placing them on the table.
Rodrick levitated each letter in front of him, scanning through the names shown. he was quite surprised to see some of them, he chuckled when he found Dumbledore's letter at the bottom of the pile.
"I take it you decided on this day as the Headmaster would, unfortunately, be busy?" He questioned.
The hint of a smile showed up on Lucius' face at the words.
"How will you plan on taking Draco to the castle?" Rodrick decided to ask, quickly gaining the boy's attention.
Draco had a bemused expression on his face, he had expected to simply skip the day as it was the weekend, there wouldn't be lessons until Monday, his hopes were quickly dashed as he watched his father shake his head.
"I intend to apparate him to Hogsmeade once everything is done," Lucius remarked.
Rodrick simply shook his head, "There won't be any need for that"
Lucius raised an eyebrow at the words.
"I intend to return to Hogwarts later on, I'll apparate him straight to the castle with me"
Draco's face adopted a grin at the idea, turning towards his father he found confusion lining the man's face at the thought.
"You intend to go back?" Lucius questioned before almost hitting himself over the head, of course, he intended to go back. Most of his potential enemies resided there, it was the best way to keep an eye on them... He briefly considered the dangers involved before almost scoffing at the thought. Grindelwald was probably the biggest danger in the castle. Not to mention he'd be able to keep an eye on Voldemort.
From the look on Malfoy's face, Rodrick figured he didn't even need to answer the obvious question.
Draco looked like he wanted to add to it, no doubt wondering the same before he'd chosen not to. He could always ask him later, when his father wasn't around. He had no intention of displeasing the man. Whatever was going on was important. Even a Hufflepuff could see it! And he wanted, more than anything else, to be a part of it.
Before anyone else can add to the conversation, they all watched as Dobby quickly popped into the room.
As usual, anger quickly overtook the Lord's face at his disrespectful house elf, Rodrick merely chuckled at the elf. Draco was indifferent to the servant, however, he quickly called it over when he noticed the daily prophet in his hands.
Taking that as his cue, Dobby quickly disappeared, not wanting to stay in the room any longer than necessary. The boy must be evil, if Malfoy liked him.
Quickly skimming through the paper, Draco's eyes widened when he noticed how many headlines Grindelwald had made.
"I take it I made the front page?" Rodrick questioned, there was a twinkle in his eyes at the thought. The daily prophet had taken its time before printing anything regarding him, he guessed Fudge likely had something to do it, eventually, the pressure from the other purebloods had forced him to stop meddling with the wizarding newspaper.
"You made the first 6 pages..." Draco replied, his voice full of awe.
Lucius quickly prompted his son to hand him the paper before reading through it... He was astounded at what he'd found. Articles ranging from the boy's open claim to been capable of curing any curse, with the dark mark as proof, to Crouch's sudden investigation. Unlike Rodrick, the man wasn't underage, as soon as the Aurors had left the party, Amelia Bones had set in on Crouch. He was amused to find at least three pages dedicated to theories regarding Rodrick's plans, most of them had assumed he was going to become a dark lord. It was, however, the article on Rodrick's use of Magical extraction as well as the potion was what had piqued Malfoy's interest. He wasn't sure why, but it nonplussed him as he read over the fact that Magical extraction was extremely difficult to perform, and that was through Alchemy. It seemed there weren't any records of it ever been possible through the use of a wand. Something that would without doubt change and shape things. He knew from his own sources the fact the Unspeakables had been dying to meet the dark lord heir. The information he possessed was no doubt seeing as an almost godsend to them.
"So, who is the first guest?" Rodrick decided to break the silence.
Malfoy's bewildered eyes quickly swept over towards Rodrick, he was about to answer before he felt a jolt of magic course through him, he quickly unlocked the wards preventing others from entering the manor.
"Lord Nott" Malfoy answered as he watched the fireplace quickly brim up, announcing the man's arrival.
The shadow of a grin seemed to take over Rodrick's face at the words. Turning towards Draco, he whispered. "Just watch"
Draco to his credit nodded wordlessly, his eyes locked with the man approaching the table.
To both, Nott Snr as well as Lucius Malfoy, surprise. Rodrick rose up from his seat before formally greeting the pureblood.
"A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lord Nott" he gave a swift bow at the words.
Nott merely copied the act. Was the boy treating him as an equal? he watched as both Malfoy's quickly did the same. His expression didn't change as he watched Grindelwald, the boy was currently sat in the head seat... He had originally thought that the whole ministry charade had been planned by Lucius, that the man had intended to use Grindelwald as a means to pursue his own goals... What he was seeing now, however, showed the opposite, from the look on Malfoy's face, it seemed the boy truly was in charge. What made him feel off about the whole thing was that Malfoy didn't look upset about that fact. Is he willing to take orders from the child? Nott thought to himself. Idily he noted the fact Young Malfoy was allowed attendance at the meetings. He approved of that, the future depended on the current youngsters, it was never too early to begin their training.
"I heard you wished to meet with me?" Rodrick decided to ask as he watched Nott take a seat on the far side of the table.
I had originally meant to meet Malfoy...Nott thought to himself, having assumed the man was the one in charge, before schooling his expression.
"Yes, I did," Nott remarked passively.
"Very well, here I am" Rodrick deadpanned, his hands outstretched just in front of him.
The two set into a small silence before Nott decided to ask the first question.
"Do you intend to become a Dark Lord?" he questioned, his face unreadable. As his original assumption died out, he had nothing to start on and so was in a sense improvising. Glancing at Malfoy he found the man quiet, his expression hidden.
"That is a rather broad question" Rodrick answered. "Even if I wasn't planning to become one, the world will assume otherwise anyway"There was a small smirk on his face as he spoke.
Nott furrowed his brows, the boy hadn't actually answered the question. A good sign. Schooling his expression once again, the man fired off another.
"How did you know it was Barty Crouch Snr?" Nott had spent days trying to figure out how the boy could've come to that conclusion, nothing came up. There wasn't a hint of Crouch having knowledge regarding the fire lord incident. Yet the boy in front of him seemed to know. It made no sense.
Rodrick almost grinned at the question. "I didn't, it was only a guess after all"
Nott seemed to narrow his eyes momentarily, "If you had been wrong you would currently be in Azkaban."
Rodrick grinned.
Nott didn't react, he turned towards Malfoy and found the man watching with keen interest. He doesn't know either...
That fact seemed to pique Nott's interest, even more, the boy had come to the conclusion on his own.
"I would've certainly walked into Azkaban had I been wrong..."
A light of understanding filled Lucius eyes at that, He never said he'd stay... The complications of the words quickly hit Malfoy as his eyes momentarily widened. Grindelwald had tricked the ministry into handing over a favour from Fudge for literally no reason... really Amelia Bones more than likely benefited the most out of it, He was never in any danger, to begin with. That had led Malfoy to a frightening conclusion. The boy could apparate in and out of Azkaban... In other words... the only way the ministry can stop him is through killing him... A sobering thought really, considering from what he'd seen it would no doubt be a difficult feat. He shuddered at the thought of duelling someone capable of apparating circles around him. The fact was Grindelwald would merely need to set up an anti-apparition ward and his victory would almost be guaranteed.
Nott had a different reaction to the words, he had been about to speak before he'd locked eyes with the boy in front of him, he felt his magic tense up in response... Walked into Azkaban... Is he suggesting he could've escaped!? That wasn't possible... As he took in the confident boy in front of him, the magic currently exuding out of the boy's eyes... A small thought seemed to sprout itself in the man's head... He would've escaped...
"Why Crouch?" Nott asked once again.
Rodrick locked eyes with the man, a small smile quickly taking over his face. Reaching towards the Daily Prophet Rodrick quickly skimmed through each page, wondering if the Ministry had found it ye- his eyes glistened as he found what he was looking for. He quickly levitated the piece of parchment towards the man.
Nott took the paper warily, he quickly read the article before his eyes widened.
"Azkaban... you intend to use Fudge's favour to visit Azkaban regardless..." Nott concluded as he stared at the words, It seemed, Crouch had, in his hurry to prove himself in the previous war, quickly sent off several death eaters into Azkaban without trial. Something that was without a doubt illegal, even if it was Death Eaters. Turning towards the boy in front of him, he found him nodding. His end game was to visit Azkaban... whether he'd gone there through a favour or his own will didn't matter...Nott felt something suffocate him... How could someone... He was confused, he wasn't sure how anyone could've pulled off such a stunt... a stunt with literally no drawbacks to it. The world had believed him to have outstepped the ministry... Seeing things now, however, they'd never stood a chance. turning towards Malfoy, he found the same look on the man's face... It was no wonder he'd quickly sought to join the boy.
"Are you going to ask me why now?" Rodrick questioned amused.
Nott shook his head, "I doubt you'd tell me..." I've seen enough... He thought to himself.
"You'd be correct in that regard I suppose, is that all?" Rodrick questioned, amused.
The room fell into a silence at that, Nott wondering how he could go about asking his next question, while the boy certainly proved to have a semblance of intelligence, intelligence befitting someone far older then what he was seeing, there was something more important, something Nott wanted to know, something he needed to know, it was what would decide his choice in following the future dark lord.
"I would like to witness the rest of your meetings for the day" Nott decided to go straight to the point.
Rodrick glanced towards Malfoy and found the man about to refuse, no doubt seeking an oath of loyalty of sorts first. He merely waved his hand, allowing the man his request.
Nott nodded at that before relocating his seat somewhere closer, he was about to take a seat before he saw Grindelwald indicate the seat to his left. He stood there for a second before he decided to take it.
Malfoy had wanted to intrude at the fact but held himself, a look at Grindelwald showed the boy had known. sighing, he quickly let it pass, it wasn't as if the man had never been in the room before. Nott, after all, had followed Voldemort in the first war as well. Perhaps Grindelwald had intended on Nott staying? Could he have predicted that outcome? he's certainly shown to have some sort of idea what the man was like. The fact he'd willingly introduced himself and shown himself as an equal- Malfoy stopped his thought process. He considered him an equal because Nott hadn't officially become his follower... Nott would've felt disrespected had Grindelwald immediately assumed he was superior... He intends to have Nott follow him. From the looks of it... he was succeeding.
Turning towards the fireplace, Rodrick was amused to see Lord Avery walk out of the fireplace. (The same one that had been in Hogwarts with Severus Snape)
Avery's face quickly took on a shocked outlook as he gazed at Nott. Don't tell me even Nott's backing him now!? The man thought to himself bewildered, Nott and Malfoy... If these two are already following him...
Nott almost lost composure when he'd realised why Grindelwald had personally asked him to take his left... A show of power. Turning towards Avery Nott found the man scampering on his feet, the man was an opportunist but still believed in the right ideologies, it wouldn't be a setback to have him with them. He noted the fact Grindelwald hadn't bothered to formally introduce himself. Doesn't he think much of him? His answer was quickly answered by Avery himself.
Avery proceeded to get on one knee. "My Lord," he started, he was about add on more before Rodrick's voice quickly cut through, surprising the current occupants.
"Lord?" Rodrick questioned bemused, "I don't remember having a seat in the Wizangamot. Unless you were referring to the two lords beside me..." There was a glint in his eye as he stared down the fumbling ex-death eater.
That's why... Both Malfoy and Nott thought amused, that was the reason Grindelwald hadn't introduced himself as an equal... it would've looked weak.
Avery blinked a few times, still on the floor, wondering what he was supposed to say. If Nott and Malfoy believed in him, then he simply had to make the effort to join. However he wasn't sure how to go about it, that small show had endeared him to the previous dark lord quickly enough.
Rodrick waved a hand, indicating the man to rise. He watched as the man quickly swept to his feet. "You wished to meet with me?" he finally decided to ask.
Avery nodded warily, "I wish to proclaim my loyalty..." he decided to say. He was confused to see the two lords besides the boy quiet, watching with keen interest.
Rodrick raised an eyebrow at the man, "Loyalty?" He questioned.
Avery was at a loss for words, wondering why things weren't going well.
Rodrick sighed at the fumbling man, "Loyalty is not given, Avery, it is earned." he shook his head slightly at the words.
"Earned?" Avery questioned bemused.
"I am not currently looking to buy it" Rodrick deadpanned, he could've sworn he saw Nott's lips tugging up slightly.
"I am not sure I understand..." Avery remarked.
"No matter, " Rodrick answered, his hands waving dismissively, "What I am looking for is incentives, if you wish to follow me, I expect something of value to come from you"
Avery stared at the boy wondering where he was going with it.
"It's only fair..." Rodrick started, "After all, I intend to set a legacy, a legacy far greater then anything history has ever seen. And my followers will reap the benefits"
Draco felt tempted to question why Grindelwald was willingly saying everything.
Nott and Malfoy shared a glance at the words, no doubt wondering what exactly the boy had in mind... Was it something as revolutionising as Hogwarts had been? or was it greater?
Avery looked to have the same thoughts if the way his eyes had widened was any indication, the words seemed to spur his drive to join Grindelwald. However, he was at a loss for words, unsure how to go about it.
"So, what incentives do you have to offer me? besides promises of Loyalty," Rodrick questioned amiably.
When Avery failed to respond, Nott decided to interject.
"The Avery family is a long-standing ancient and noble family. financially secure as well significant political power, of course as with any of the sacred 28, Pureblood as far as the family tree goes."
Avery had a look of triumph in his eyes at Nott's words, century-old traditions were finally paying off. Turning towards Grindelwald however, his face almost took a frown. The boy had a passive look on his face.
"I see, unfortunately, that in itself is only praise, like I said, I want something of value in return, galleons and political intrigue while useful doesn't compare to what I am offering you"
Avery was about to respond before Rodrick continued.
"I am not refusing your loyalty Avery, I am merely informing you of what is required if you wish to follow me" Rodrick took a moment before he added on, "You have plenty of time to come up with a reasonable solution."
Avery took it as his queue to leave but not before bowing swiftly, seeing the hint of approval lining the boy's face, he knew he still had a chance... He only needed to figure out a substantial enough gift to warrant his inclusion.
As the man left, Nott took a speculative look towards Rodrick, curiosity covering his expression. That was not what I had anticipated... The boy hadn't outright refused the man's loyalty, a good thing, however, he had given him a condition, something to work towards. If Avery succeeded then he was far less likely to double-cross him should a better opportunity arise. Wizards, especially Pureblood's, did not like wasting their time. If it took an effort to earn something, they were far more careful with it.
Nott was slowly seeing why Malfoy had jumped to his side so quickly... For a few moment's he'd cursed himself for having not made the effort to approach him first. He knew exactly what Malfoy's cost had been. To openly admit to the entire world that he was no longer a believer in the dark lord, by removing his dark mark... he made his actions unreversible. A year ago that wouldn't have been as big of a deal... Recent events, however, indicate that same dark lord to be alive, confirming a suspicion Nott had once long ago considered. Voldemort having created a Horcrux. There was no doubt about it, Rodrick Grindelwald was the Fire Lord, and he was making an effort to make sure that same dark lord didn't return. Ever since his suspicions regarding Voldemort had begun, he'd lost a vast amount of interest in following the man. Only a madman would willingly split his own soul. So far the boy was proving to be competent... very competent, it was almost scary. He idly wondered how the boy had even known about Voldemort's Horcrux, he was only 12. However, he knew it was dangerous to ask. Perhaps his parents had simply left him the task? yes... His parent's no doubt had found out about them and left it all to their son... If he's anything like them then it made sense. that was the most plausible thing he could think of.
"Avery would not be a bad ally to have" Malfoy decided to interject, he'd been hoping the man wouldn't screw up his chance to join them, it was unfortunate he'd taken the same approach he'd used on Voldemort for that clearly neither worked nor left a good impression.
"You're referring to his family wealth I take it?" Rodrick questioned.
Malfoy nodded, however, it was Nott that spoke next.
"You will need it, you may have Malfoy's wealth and perhaps my own, however, if you intend to start a war you will require far more." Nott had a speculative gaze on his face, wondering how the boy would react to the words. To his disappointment and perhaps good fortune, the boy made no reaction to his admitting his potential following. Good.
Rodrick raised an eyebrow at the words, "Start a war?" he questioned amused, "I have no intentions of such a thing"
"No?" Draco was the one that had asked, he quickly looked down towards the table, no doubt expecting his father to be disappointed. To his fortune the man was indifferent, his attention focused towards Grindelwald's answer. Nott was in a similar state.
Rodrick shook his head, "A war will only make things far more unreliable, I much prefer plotting in peace than in a war front" He spoke, his eyes however quickly took on a cold expression, his voice almost haunting as he spoke his next words. "When I make my move, it'll hit the country like a storm, a storm only the maddest would try to oppose"
All three knew who the maddest referred to in this sense, Dumbledore. Nott, however, had finally heard enough, the boy's words had confirmed it, he was consolidating his forces... waiting for the perfect moment to use them. Patient. That was the last mark he'd needed to be certain the boy wouldn't turn out into another Voldemort, for while the man had earlier did the same, he'd wanted a war to prove his prowess. Grindelwald, however, was simply focused on the end goal of it all... ignoring any and every unnecessary complication. Now it was a matter of waiting for the meetings to end before he finally made his move.
"Beside's, as far as wealth goes, I don't really require it, I have more than enough already"
"Family vault?" Malfoy questioned curiously.
Rodrick shook his head before taking out a potion from his robe pocket. "While I certainly have my own fair share of galleons and heirlooms, it does not compare to this."
Nott eyed the potion, recognising it as the same one from the party before he'd realised the boy's meaning.
"How far do you reckon a wizard would go in attempting to cure a life-threatening curse, or any curse for that matter... whether for themselves, a friend, or even family?"
Nott didn't reply, there was no answer to the question. He himself would've gone to any lengths possible for such a chance... The boy had a gold mine hidden inside a single dose of the potion in front of him.
"I could bankrupt an ancient family and they still would willingly pay to get rid of whatever curse currently affecting."
No one denied it, knowing fully well themselves, depending on the curse, they would indeed be willing to pay for it. Nott, however, couldn't help the question.
"Can it truly cure any curse?" he had to ask, "Even ones such as lycanthropy?" if the boy had found a cure for that... it was over for the magical Britain, he would be without a doubt one of the most powerful people in the country if he'd done the impossible...all because of a single vial, Rodrick didn't answer, instead of a smile plastered over his face. Nott's eyes widened by a fraction.
"Although I doubt anyone suffering from that would be able to afford it" he chuckled.
Nott raised an eyebrow at that, "That in itself could set the legacy you're looking for..."
Rodrick grinned at the words, the look sent chills down everyone currently in attendance. "The legacy I want to set is not so simple... I intend to do what every dark lord in the past proclaimed... I intend to create a Pureblood world"
The three purebloods stared at Grindelwald with mixed reactions, Malfoy had an almost ecstatic expression on his face. Nott, however, was staring at the boy wondering what he'd meant... An entirely pureblood would not be as grand as most would imagine... Something, however, told him the boy meant something else... something else entirely... something far grander then any of them could imagine. It was the look of pure confidence in his eyes that spoke measures... He knows something, something no one else does... something that would change the world...
Rodrick idly tapped the potion in front of him, grinning. "I could bankrupt the wealthiest of families with this..." Before anyone could question him, Rodrick reached into his pocket before producing another potion, there was an orange tint to this one, there was an almost gleeful look on his face.
The other's stared at the second potion, the only one who recognised it was Malfoy, having seen the boy use it in front of him... It's the one he uses to apparate through wards... There was a hungry look on the man's face, what he would give to have that kind of power...
Nott, however, didn't recognise it, "Another potion?" he questioned.
Rodrick chuckled, "Not just any potion... while I might be able to cure any curse with that one... this is far more valuable..."
The words were slowly turning the gears in Nott's head, wondering what could possibly be worth more than being capable of curing any curse.
"It's the same one, no? the same one you used to apparate through my wards"
Nott's eyes widened at the words, Malfoy's wards were no joke, there was a reason the dark lord had expressed a desire to use the manor as his headquarters in the first war... if those words were true...
Rodrick nodded his head, "I could sell it for every vault in Gringotts with this... and the goblins would happily pay for a chance to protect their gold"
"Protect..." Nott remarked uneasily, Don't tell me he could apparate through Gringotts!?" if he was capable of that... Azkaban... Hogwarts... The ministry... none of them would be able to stop him. It was then that Nott came to a startling conclusion... Even if there was a war... Grindelwald would likely never be stopped, unless Dumbledore finally decided to use the killing curse, it would be a bloodbath for anyone else to even attempt to...
Judging by the look on Nott's face, Rodrick figured he'd done a good job so far.
"How many more?" he decided to question Malfoy, idly pocketing the two most expensive potions in the world.
"4" was Malfoy's reply.
Rodrick nodded before turning his attention back towards the front. "Whose next?" he questioned.
Malfoy had a disgruntled look on his face, "Longbottom"
Rodrick chuckled, the woman was making no attempt to wait. Nott raised an eyebrow at the reaction but said nothing, instead he turned his attention to the sudden roar of the fireplace. Out of it, Madam Longbottom came out. The aged witch still had the same steel pierce in her eyes as she walked through towards the long table.
Rodrick this time had gotten up before 'formally' introducing the woman, he was amused to see her begrudgingly repay his act.
Everyone there, even Draco, knew he was mocking her.
"To what do I owe the pleasure? I doubt you're here to proclaim your families loyalty" Rodrick remarked, sitting down.
The woman scoffed at the notion before taking a seat on the other side of the table. "I am here regarding your dubious claim to been capable of curing any curse"
"Dubious?" Rodrick remarked lazily, "That isn't the best way to ask someone to help cure your broken children Madam Longbottom"
Nott and Malfoy almost scoffed, Draco made no attempt as he quickly snickered at the words. A stare from his father had him fix his expression although amusement was still lining his face.
A flash of anger adorned the woman's face before she schooled her expression. "Are you confirming your ability to help then?" she questioned.
"I suppose I am..." he remarked, gazing at the woman.
"The costs?" she questioned, she knew there was no way in hell he'd do it for free. Still, he was a child it was no doubt within her power to afford whatever ludicrous price he decided to set.
"You have two options... There's the expensive one and cheap one" he remarked amused, The Malfoys were watching with amusement themselves. It was quickly becoming apparent allowing the woman into the manor was a good idea.
Nott, however, had a more formal expression on his face, wondering why the boy would even consider her proposal, the woman's family would no doubt go against them in the future.
Longbottom didn't react to the words, merely waiting for the boy to tell her how much it would b-
"I want an unbreakable vow, from every member of your family to not oppose me or any of my goals, no matter what."
Augusta Longbottom's eyes widened at the word's, that hadn't been what she had in mind.
Nott almost smirked at the words, That's why...
"That's-" Augusta was about to say before Rodrick raised a hand.
"I wasn't finished..." he spoke amused.
Narrowing her eyes, she waited to see what else the boy would demand.
"I also want access to your family ring, temporarily of course"
Augusta was now glaring at the future dark lord, "What exactly for?"
"Oh, nothing..." Rodrick spoke, a twinkle in his eye, "I just want to put a couple spells on it... for insurance..."
"You would desecrate an ancient heirloom?" Augusta almost snapped.
The temperature in the room quickly dropped as Rodrick's magic quickly swept out of control, covering the room. Shocking the occupants, all but Malfoy who'd witnessed it firsthand. The level of magic displayed was almost unnatural... to think he was a child... was the resounding thoughts that entered Nott and Longbottom. "I intend to mark it, should any single person in your family decide to break whatever vow you make... all will suffer the consequences.
Augusta had a look of shock at the words, if anyone broke it.. it would be the end of Longbottom family name.
Nott had a glint in his eyes at the words... The boy wasn't joking around.
"What exactly does this vow entail?" Augusta questioned, rather calmly.
"Oh, you know" Rodrick waved his hands dismissively, "Your family will not interfere in any way shape or form regarding my plans, that includes funding Dumbledore's little group whether directly or through a proxy and of course I expect your daughter in law to make the same...And Dumbledore in this sense translates to ANYONE who decides to oppose me"
"in other words, Longbottoms will essentially be neutral should you suddenly decide to become a dark lord" Augusta spoke through grit teeth.
Rodrick nodded his head amiably, "That's the gist of it"
Augusta had a passive look on her face, "Frank would never agree" she decided to settle on.
Rodrick chuckled, "Leave that to me, he'll see reason..."
Augusta ground her teeth, she was the only one to understand the boy's meaning, she had to begrudgingly admit it was a good idea... To wake her son out of his stupor before forcing him to agree to the deal or his wife stays comatose.
Before she could say anything, however, Rodrick added on. "Oh, I'll also need some uh... volunteers? Victims to be more precise, to help take the blunt of the curse... of course whether they consent to it or not is entirely your problem"
Augusta narrowed her eyes.
"I recommend 4.. if you don't want them replacing your son and daughter in law"
"You can't do it yourself?" she questioned dangerously, the smile on his face was pissing her off.
Rodrick scoffed, to her irritation, "Why would I willingly take that sort of pain?"
The two seemed to settle into a small silence before Augusta once again begrudgingly had to ask, "Do you intend to even use your potion?" she questioned, she had an idea of what the boy planned, simply using Magical extraction. Which as it turned out, the boy was the only one capable of casting it. The only other wizard capable of it was likely Dumbledore however, the man likely had no access to where he could attempt to learn the difficult piece of magic... Augusta knew for a fact that wherever the boy had learnt it was likely a closed family secret... Considering his grandfather's reputation she doubted the man would let anyone other his blood access such power.
Rodrick chuckled, "Of course not... this is only the cheap option after all."
The words sent a chill around the room.
That's the CHEAP one!? were the collective thoughts around the room. Nott had the semblance of a smile on his face, the boy really knew which buttons to push.
"The expensive one?" Augusta decided to ask.
Rodrick had an almost feral grin on his face, "You can't afford it" he remarked, irritating the woman further.
"What is it" she ground out forcefully, glaring at the boy.
Rodrick grinned, "I want the Philosophers stone" he answered to the former death eater's shock and amusement.
Augusta frowned at the condition, "The Longbottom family doesn't possess such an artefact"
"Which is why you can't afford it... I suppose you could ask Dumbledore for a favour, I am sure he'd be willing to help seeing how loyal you are to the man"
Rodrick heard distinct chuckling, he was surprised to find it coming from Lucius, the man had a hand over his mouth barely able to suppress his laughter.
"What would the difference be" Augusta decided to ask, for the sake of knowing.
"I would, of course, perform the process myself, as well as provide a way for your son and his wife to recover fairly quickly enough..."
"If you required four beings in order to suppress the curse, how do you intend to perform it yourself," Augusta asked incredulously.
"I happen to have a sentient object that would simply love to help an ancient family such as your own"
Malfoy's eyes snapped to the boy, wondering if that was why he'd decided to keep the Horcrux around... if that was the case then how long had the boy been planning everything... Did he know firsthand Augusta would come to him if he ever revealed the potion... he was slowly but surely understanding a hint of what Salazar Slytherin must've been like... It was Magnificant to watch...
Noone else had known the boy's meaning.
"You have plenty of time to think it over, I am sure your son and his wife won't notice the time," he remarked barely able to suppress a chuckle as he watched the woman walk away back to the fireplace. Contemplating his offers.
"If she somehow agrees to the second option, it may be more trouble then you realise" Nott decided to speak up.
Rodrick shrugged, "I'll be immortal and her son will owe me a life debt. I find that to be quite worthwhile"
Nott merely nodded at the words, agreeing.
"There was another matter" Lucius had suddenly remembered, gaining the boy's attention.
"Hm?"
"The ministry, they're currently trying to implement a law regarding your potion" Lucius spoke.
Rodrick nodded his head, surprising the man, he'd expected that reaction from Fudge.
"I am guessing it's somewhere along the lines of me not being able to sell it until it's been tested?" Rodrick questioned, receiving a nod in turn from Malfoy.
"It won't be easy to go around that law..." Nott remarked quietly.
Rodrick raised an eyebrow at the man, "I don't quite understand"
Malfoy stared at the boy slightly frowning, "You intend to give them a dose to test?"
Rodrick shook his head.
The man's face was slowly going back to its neutral look, "You intend to perform the tests in front of them yourself?" it would certainly be possible, they couldn't very well disregard it if it happened in front of them and as far as the Unspeakables would be concerned, they would get to witness it in action.
Rodrick once again to the man's surprise shook his head, "I don't intend to do anything, if they make that law so be it"
Nott furrowed his brows at that, "If that law passes you wouldn'-" before he stopped himself, understand the boy's point.
Rodrick nodded amiably at the look on the man's face, "Yes, if I can't sell it I would need to 'unfortunately' do the process myself, costing me time and energy and of course skyrocketing it's price to the moon"
Surprise fritted over Malfoy's face, he was glad he hadn't tried to intercede when the law had been brought up. It seemed the boy had all his bases checked.
...
The meetings slowly but surely quickly finished up, leaving the three wizards and a disgruntled Rodrick in the room. The last visitor had apparently pushed the wrong button if the look on the boy's face was any indication. He had thankfully waited before the man had left before making his displeasure known. Parkinson had in his glorious mind thought offering his daughter as a bride to the young Grindelwald would allow him the opportunity to join the future Dark Lord. If it hadn't been for the Rodrick had only received his memories, he was certain to have cruciod the man on the spot for the thought. Thankfully all he'd done was merely remark That wasn't what I had in mind Lord Parkinson... the man had slowly left after that, no doubt intent on finding a more suitable gift.
It seemed word of Avery's meeting had quickly gone around, telling most of the pureblood's Grindelwald's condition for following him. Good Rodrick thought to himself, he didn't want to repeat most of what he'd said to every wizard or witch he'd meet. Hearing something move beside him, Rodrick raised an eyebrow as he watched Nott slowly get up from his seat, his eyes locked with his own. To his surprise, he watched as Nott slowly reached into his pocket before retrieving what look liked an ornate green dagger in its sheath. There were several snakes graved into the sheath, Rodrick slowly found himself staring at it with a hint of awe, it resonated quite a large amount magic...
Nott placed the dagger in front of the Grindelwald heir, "The gift you require" He spoke in a passive voice.
Rodrick watched as the man slowly rolled up his sleeve to reveal the dark mark, no doubt prompting him to remove it.
Rodrick stared at the mark before turning his attention back to the dagger, slowly he removed the blade out, before examining it. Slowly his eyes widened when he noticed the blood-freezing charm that had been placed on it.
"There's a blood freezer on it... why..." he asked, his eyes widening... it couldn't be. Snapping his gaze towards Nott, he found the shadow of a grin on the man's face.
"A family heirloom, not originally belonging to my own... history states it once belonged to Merlin himself... before it passed to my family"
Rodrick could feel the temperature drop as he stared the man, wide-eyed. "Whose blood is this?" he asked thinly.
Nott for the first time that day had a small smirk etched on his face, "Salazar Slytherin himself" The words seemed to send the boy into a small chuckle that slowly grew. Chancing a look towards Malfoy he found the man aghast at giving away such a powerful heirloom. It only helped prove he'd made the right choice in following the boy... he idly wondered what it would've cost him had he decided to ignore the boy earlier on.
"A good gift indeed..." he remarked before rising and grabbing hold of his wand.
Nott watched with keen interest as the boy repeated the process he'd used on Malfoy, to the same effect. He slowly felt the skin where the dark mark had previously resided, an awed look on his face. He never thought he'd be free from that tainted magic. Once again helping prove the boy's claim of being capable of removing any curse.
...
A grinning Rodrick was idly walking up the Castle steps, Draco Malfoy in tow. Nott had left not long after truly proclaiming his loyalty. He himself had soon left afterwards by apparating just outside the castle gates, Draco by his side.
"What did you think?" Rodrick questioned the blonde, wondering what he'd gotten out of that meeting.
"It was awesome" The boy had accidentally let out, unable to control his excitement.
Rodrick raised an eyebrow before chuckling, the boy had started rambling on about the meeting, Rodrick idly listening as they walked into the great hall. He was amused to see they'd arrived in time for the dinner feast. Malfoy now having quieted down quickly swept over behind Rodrick, towards the Slytherin table, before taking a seat beside Grindelwald.
Nott blinked a few times before realising Grindelwald had inf act purposefully sat next to him... Does that mean the meeting went well? He did note with a hint of amusement how almost everyone in the hall had turned towards there side, all of them eyeing Grindelwald. None of them had expected him to return and yet here he was. Incidentally, he was surprised to see most of the Ravenclaw not in fact glaring at him, their thirst for knowledge taking over their common sense once again.
It was his professors that surprised him the most, particularly Snape. There was an almost hungry look on the man's face, no doubt dying to know what kind of potion he'd created. Lucius had once questioned whether he would consider Snape as a potential follower, no doubt not knowing of the man's true allegiance. Rodrick had considered it before quickly realising how difficult it would really be to pull off.
"Anything happen in the past couple of hours?" he heard Malfoy ask.
Nott shrugged, "Not much... although Quirrel seems to have stopped stuttering" His words for some reason seemed to get a reaction out of Rodrick.
Interesting... Rodrick thought to himself, rather bemused. Turning towards the professor in question, he found the man staring at him with a confused expression on his face. Slowly though he watched as a glint seemed to appear in the man's eyes. Has Voldemort taken complete control? Rodrick frowned at the thought, it meant he would need to be far more careful than before... he had no worries regarding his housemates turning against him, between him and Quirrel they would be daft to consider the man the bigger danger, no matter how many dark lords he might have stuck to his head.
Rodrick turned his attention away the moment the man swept his gaze towards Potter, I wonder if he thinks I am fire lord? Rodrick thought curious. Turning his attention towards the headmaster, he found the man about to make a speech?.
It wasn't a speech.
"Will Mr Grindelwald please make his way to my office later," Dumbledore remarked out loud, a sonorous charm no doubt increasing his volume before he promptly took a seat.
"Wonder what that's about" he heard Malfoy mutter.
Rodrick shrugged, he didn't really care all that much if he was honest. Chancing a look towards Daphne he found the girl staring at him with a confused expression... It took him a few moment's before he realised why, Astoria... Sighing, he set about trying to figure out a way to help the girl, he had no intention of charging her family but he also couldn't openly do it for nothing... Perhaps a vow of neutrality? he knew it would be far easier to get that out of them than it would be from the Longbottoms.
Speaking of who, Rodrick turned his attention towards Neville Longbottom, he felt bad he was extorting the lot, especially considering it was the boy's parents at stake. However, he simply didn't know enough about the boy's parent's to decide whether it would be risk-free to simply heal them up... Politically that was suicide as well, he doubted any of his potential followers would be happy knowing he was going around creating more potential enemies.
...
Rodrick sighed as he made his way through the gargoyle locked door. He'd been tempted to use the word Horcrux once again, for old times sake. However, he wasn't sure he wanted Dumbledore to know he was after them.
Making his way into the office, he was amused to see Fawkes stare at him speculatively, I wonder if Fawkes knows who I am... Turning his attention back to the headmaster, he found a frown marring the man's face.
"Headmaster, you wished to see me?" Rodrick questioned, amused.
The expression on the man's face didn't budge. "That was a week ago Rodrick."
Rodrick raised an eyebrow at that, "Really? my bad... I was meant to wait two weeks" he almost laughed at the headmaster's face.
Dumbledore sighed, "Rodrick... there's quite a lot I need to discuss with you..."
Rodrick nodded, "I can imagine, where would you like to start? My extorting of the people regarding my curse cure, my public relations with Malfoy? or perhaps it involves my up and coming career as a successful Dark lord? or does it involve the current one..." he remarked, a glint in his eye.
He watched as the information seeped through the headmaster's face, "You know he's still alive?"
Rodrick didn't react, "I know he's in the castle..."
Dumbledore's eyes widened momentarily, "Was it true then? the fact that you are fire lord?"
Rodrick didn't answer, he settled for shrugging.
The frown on the man's face increased, "Rodrick whatever you are doing, it is paramount you inform me, you have no ide-"
"I am not obliged to do anything headmaster"
Dumbledore frowned at the boy, the expression on his face showed he wouldn't budge from the point... another time perhaps. Merlin knew he had his work cut out for him, he had no intention of simply letting the boy become a dark lord, he would try to attempt to get him onto a different a path, even if he to apprentice the boy, he would do it.
"Very well," The headmaster conceded quickly changing the subject to the boy's demands from Longbottom. "I don't believe it is fairly reasonable of you to ask for the philosophers stone..."
"Which is currently a student at Hogwarts?" Rodrick quipped, amused to see the headmaster blanch for a second before schooling his expression. "I did offer them a cheaper option..." he remarked.
The man's eyes narrowed for a second before getting them back under control. "That option is..."
"Quite possible for them to do... of course I doubt you'd agree to see that as it really affects you... Tell me headmaster is it so important that they follow that you will allow poor Neville's parent's to stay in such torment?" There wasn't a hint of sincerity in the boy's voice, it was outright cold.
Dumbledore wasn't sure why the boy seemed to have such a personal vendetta against him, it'd been like this ever since his reveal. "Rodrick it is not fair for them to suffer, the Longbottoms had been a pillar of light for the wizarding community, they do not deserve that sort of reward..." The headmaster tried in vain, he knew it was a mistake the moment he saw the boy's eyes darken.
"And My family did?" Rodrick questioned in a cold voice.
The headmaster flinched, "Your grandfather had to be stopped... you must understand that what he wa-" Dumbledore started before he saw the boy raise his hand.
"I wasn't referring to him." The words had the intended effect, stunning the headmaster.
Slowly he watched as the familiar horror quickly adorned the man's face as he slowly but surely finally saw the uncanny resemblance his yellow eyes had to a certain student he'd failed...
Dumbledore had in that moment of weakness accidentally looked into the boy's mind before he recoiled on seeing his sister's lifeless eyes. The mind shield hitting him in full effect.
"Rodrick.." Dumbledore started before he saw the boy stand up.
"My mother was Lenora Grace. I am sure you remember her. Maybe now you might understand just a hint of where all this comes from" he remarked, his eyes had a dark glint to them as he quickly turned around before exiting the room, leaving a shocked Dumbledore in his wake.
The only thing going through the headmaster's mind, I created this... I am responsible for this... his mind slowly remembering all of the memories involving the boy's mother all of the times he'd failed to understand what she went through and in the end, ultimately, his actions had resulted in the death of her and husband... He'd taken the boy's parents... the boy's grandfather... This was the result of it all... He idly wondered if the boy knew who his father was... if he made that public he would likely lose another loyal supporter... Assuming he didn't try to enslave the muggle race in any case.
...
RG: Hello Tom did you miss me?
TR: No.
RG: You're finally talking! I have so much you should know about, first and full most, I've stolen Malfoy and Nott
TR: I hate you.
RG: I appreciate the compliment.
...
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