Dumbledore surveyed D calmly over the tops of his half-moon glasses. I d say you had quite an interesting Potions class, he said.
D blinked in surprise. You knew about that? he asked. He would certainly have to learn to stop underestimating the human race much.
Indeed, said Dumbledore. I heard it all the way up here.
How--is that possible? asked D, further stunned.
Well, you weren t exactly quiet, said Dumbledore. Besides which, Mr. Fred Weasley lent me some Extendable Ears, with which I have entrusted Fawkes.
Do you and Fawkes have a telepathic connection? asked D.
In a way, said Dumbledore enigmatically. He walked to D and put a gentle hand on his shoulder. I d say it was fatherly, but considering what Papa D is like, maybe I d better not. I would like to praise you, continued Dumbledore, for your insight and intelligence. It is a rare person indeed who knows that magic is not dark or light in and of itself.
I have been taught that it is not the magic, but the intent of the user, that is light or dark.
Really? And who taught you this? asked Dumbledore, his light blue eyes surveying D s mismatched ones and settling on his gold one.
M-my grandfather, sir, said D humbly. He could sense that Dumbledore was an intelligent human, if such a creature existed, and not one with whom to be trifled.
Indeed, indeed, said Dumbledore gravely. The original Count D, I presume?
D blinked but quickly regained composure. Yes, sir.
Ah, I see. He was a very good man. Dumbledore smiled at D over his half-moon glasses.
You knew my grandfather?
I was once a patron of his pet shop. He sold me Fawkes. We became good friends, and he has aided me many a time. D wasn t sure whether Dumbledore was referring to Sofu D or to Fawkes, but he nodded and smiled his china doll smile, as he had been taught to do when he didn t know what was going on.
Dumbledore smiled back. As you intentions were innocent enough, I will not demerit you or your House. I would caution you, however, to abstain from using the Killing Curse in the future. It could be taken badly by those who do not know your intentions. Furthermore, it is illegal.
Yes, sir, said D, looking down at his exquisitely long-nailed hands.
Very well. You may return to class.