Chapter 105: Conversation(Part 1)
Nicolas smiled and said,
"Well, as I mentioned earlier, I first corresponded with Albus when he was still a Hogwarts student through his professor. We didn't meet in person until after his graduation, when he traveled abroad to study alchemy with me for some time. Later, when he returned to Hogwarts to teach, I visited him there once."
"That's when I discovered the magical room with special properties. At the time, I merely wanted to create an alchemical item, which led me to uncover Ravenclaw's inheritance. Out of curiosity, I attempted to access it."
Phineas suddenly found the ring on his finger less impressive. He had spent nearly a year searching for what someone else had stumbled upon casually.
During his brief visit to Hogwarts, Nicolas had crafted the Ravenclaw ring, claimed the inheritance, and left extensive research notes in the secret chamber—all in remarkably little time.
Noticing Phineas's expression, Nicolas understood his thoughts and said kindly,
"You must remember I was over four hundred years old at that time. With centuries of accumulated knowledge, accessing Ravenclaw's secrets came naturally. For someone your age to have discovered and entered the chamber is extraordinary talent."
Dumbledore nodded in agreement,
"Indeed, Phineas, your abilities are remarkable. Though I do think you might benefit from friendships with those your own age rather than your current... associations."
Phineas frowned at Dumbledore,
"Professor, do you think I chose not to make friends? You can't imagine how difficult my position was in the wizarding world before Hogwarts. Yet you—or rather, the Sorting Hat—placed me in Slytherin anyway."
Dumbledore coughed lightly,
"The Sorting Hat makes its own decisions. It has never been wrong."
Phineas met Dumbledore's gaze steadily,
"Never wrong doesn't mean infallible. And as Headmaster, you could have influenced its decision slightly, couldn't you? Unless this outcome was precisely what you wanted?"
Dumbledore began to respond but Phineas continued,
"No matter. After the Flint family incident, my standing in Slytherin will change. And with this—" he raised his hand, showing the fading vow scar, "—you needn't watch me so closely anymore."
Dumbledore considered this, then nodded and stood.
"Then we should return."
Phineas shook his head,
"One moment. The Ministry won't let today's humiliation pass. While I don't care, you may face difficulties, Professor."
Dumbledore paused, realizing Phineas's meaning.
Fudge, embarrassed today, would surely seek retaliation—if not immediately, then later. The Minister's actions clearly had backing from certain pure-blood factions, likely including foreign interests wanting to weaken Britain's magical community.
Phineas's move had disrupted their schemes, making him and Hogwarts targets. While Phineas could ignore such pressure, Dumbledore—with his position and the coming war—could not afford to.
After a moment's thought, Dumbledore smiled and sat back down.
"Nicolas, it seems Perenelle will need to prepare extra dinner tonight. Phineas and I find ourselves quite hungry."
Phineas added,
"Apologies for the trouble, Senior Nicolas."
Nicolas waved a hand,
"No trouble at all. While Perenelle enjoys housekeeping, our elf handles the heavier work."
Dumbledore shifted topics,
"Speaking of house-elves, Phineas has trained a combat unit of them."
Nicolas looked intrigued,
"But house-elves cannot attack wizards unless their master is harmed. It's in their blood magic."
Phineas nodded,
"Correct. My team consists of young elves I purchased years ago—untrained by traditional masters. I've taught them loyalty belongs solely to me; other wizards merit no deference."
Both older wizards' expressions darkened immediately. Where others might have missed the significance, these two men - with centuries of combined experience - recognized the profound implications of Phineas's words. Their reactions showed they understood exactly what he had done, though neither spoke further on the matter.