Night had fallen over Hogwarts, and a somber quiet filled the stone corridors. Inside Snape's office, a peculiar aroma hung in the air. The mixture of countless potion ingredients created a scent that was neither entirely unpleasant nor particularly welcoming. It was an odd smell—sharp and earthy, with a metallic undertone—that had a strangely invigorating effect.
The walls of the dimly lit office were lined with shelves packed with glass bottles, each containing mysterious liquids and magical substances. Alongside them sat jars of unusual ingredients, neatly labeled and arranged, representing years of Snape's meticulous preparation.
In the middle of the room, a sudden flash of black light disturbed the stillness. The light coalesced into the figure of a wizard clad in dark green robes, carrying a well-worn magic suitcase. It was none other than Gilderoy Lockhart.
As he appeared, the room brightened as though responding to his presence. Lockhart wrinkled his nose, rubbing it instinctively. The scent of Snape's office was one he hadn't experienced in quite some time—a reminder of a world he had left behind nearly a year ago.
He glanced at the ornate clock on the wall, a knowing look crossing his face. The slight difference in time was expected; his travels between worlds often brought discrepancies. This particular journey, however, had been delayed by nearly two hours—a consequence of bringing an entourage of wizard students with him.
Lockhart waved his wand, a trail of red light forming an intricate aperture in the air. The portal shimmered, and through it emerged Snape, Steve, Peggy, and the group of students who had accompanied him.
Snape's expression softened as he took in the familiar surroundings of his office. The trace of nostalgia in his eyes was quickly replaced by his usual seriousness. While the students busied themselves with lessons in the adjacent room, Snape returned to Lockhart's side.
"Lockhart," Snape said, his tone steady but tinged with curiosity, "what's our next move?"
Lockhart's lips curved into a lazy, confident smile. "We'll take it one step at a time, Severus," he said, his voice relaxed yet commanding. "You're free to stay at Hogwarts or join me at the new school. Either way, it doesn't matter."
He paused, a glint of mischief in his eyes. "After all," he continued, his voice dropping to a near whisper, "I am invincible in the wizarding world."
Snape remained silent, his sharp mind processing the weight of Lockhart's words. Since entering the Marvel universe, Snape's own abilities had grown considerably, but he knew Lockhart's powers had reached unprecedented heights. Even Dumbledore, Grindelwald, and Voldemort paled in comparison to him now.
Meanwhile, in Nurmengard, Grindelwald's study exuded an air of dark elegance. The room was spacious, its walls adorned with intricate carvings and magical artifacts. An ornate wool carpet covered the floor, muffling the sound of footsteps.
Kneeling on one knee before Grindelwald was Saint Philo Shafiq, his voice trembling with a mixture of devotion and unease. "Sir, most of the tasks you assigned have been completed," Philo reported fervently. "The American Ministry of Magic is now infiltrated with our people. They will no longer be a hindrance."
He hesitated, glancing at Grindelwald, who appeared engrossed in the ancient tome spread before him. Philo's hesitation grew heavier under the oppressive silence. Finally, he summoned the courage to continue.
"However," he stammered, "there are… complications."
Grindelwald's eyes never left the pages of his book, but his presence alone was enough to unsettle Philo. Each moment of silence amplified the pressure, the weight of Grindelwald's expectations bearing down on him.
Finally, Grindelwald set the book aside and fixed Philo with an icy stare. His fingers tapped rhythmically on the polished wood of his desk, the sound cutting through the silence like a metronome of impending judgment.
"Philo," Grindelwald said, his voice calm yet menacing, "you need not concern yourself with Hungary."
A cold sweat broke out on Philo's brow. He had intended to resolve the Hungarian saints' betrayal quietly, sparing Grindelwald the knowledge of their defection. But Grindelwald, ever perceptive, already knew.
"Focus on the Ministry of Magic," Grindelwald continued. "I will deal with Camus Harder myself."
Camus Harder, the esteemed headmaster of Ilvermorny, was a formidable adversary. His influence and magical prowess posed a significant obstacle to Grindelwald's plans. Philo bowed deeply, grateful for the reprieve.
"As you wish, my lord," he said, his voice steadying.
Grindelwald dismissed him with a wave of his hand, returning to his book. Philo rose, offered a final bow, and departed.
Once alone, Grindelwald leaned back in his chair and sighed. Faith, once strong, can falter over time. He resolved to remind his followers of their purpose, his silver-white Eye of Destiny glinting ominously as visions of the future swirled within its depths.
The next morning, Hogwarts bustled with excitement. In the Great Hall, vibrant fireworks streaked across the enchanted ceiling, casting shimmering reflections on the festive decorations below. Students in red Santa hats raced around, their laughter filling the air.
Harry Potter stood near the edge of the hall, his eyes alight with excitement. He scanned the crowd, eager to join the festivities.
"Hi, Harry." Hermione's voice cut through the din as she approached, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Harry turned, grinning at the sight of his friend. "Hermione, are you here to join the fun too?" he asked, gesturing toward their classmates.
Hermione hesitated, glancing at the cheerful chaos around them. "No," she said softly. "I'll just sit here for now."
Her reluctance surprised Harry. Though she had always been more reserved, there was something different in her tone.
"By the way," Hermione added in a whisper, "did you hear? Professor Lockhart is leaving after Christmas."
Harry's smile faltered. "Leaving? You mean he won't be teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts anymore?"
Hermione nodded. "It's true. We'll have a new teacher next term."
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