NOVEL NEXT Chapter 159: The Summon
Artel stepped into the potion material store in Knockturn Alley, immediately sensing the wary atmosphere that hung thick in the air. The wizard attending the shop eyed him with a mix of fear and apprehension, undoubtedly recognizing Artel as a figure associated with recent dark and dangerous events.
"Hello," Artel greeted politely, trying to ease the tension. "I'm here to pick up some potion materials that Mr. Malfoy has prepared for me."
The wizard's forced smile faltered slightly, his eyes darting nervously around the dimly lit shop. "Ah, yes, of course," he replied, his voice betraying unease. "If you'll just wait here, I'll fetch them for you."
Artel nodded, understanding the unease his presence caused. He leaned against a shelf of rare herbs and ingredients, observing the shop discreetly while he waited. The store was dimly lit with shelves lined with bottles and jars containing various magical substances—some legal, others questionable in their use.
As he waited, Artel couldn't help but overhear snippets of conversation from a pair of shadowy figures at the counter nearby. They were discussing the latest exploits of Saruman, a notorious dark wizard whose actions had sent shockwaves through the magical community. Artel knew Saruman's name had become synonymous with fear and chaos, especially after his brazen attack on the Magical Congress and subsequent atrocities.
Eventually, the wizard returned with a package wrapped in brown paper, clearly relieved to be done with the transaction. "Here you go, sir," he said hastily, handing the bundle to Artel.
"Thank you," Artel replied with a nod, taking the package. He paid for the materials and left the shop, keenly aware of the watchful eyes following his every move until he Apparated back to Hogwarts.
Once safely back in the familiar surroundings of the castle, Artel relaxed a fraction. He knew his association with Lucius Malfoy, despite the man's dubious reputation, was necessary for acquiring certain rare potion ingredients. As he made his way back to the Slytherin common room, he pondered the growing tensions in the wizarding world and the unsettling presence of dark forces like Saruman.
Artel leaned back comfortably in his chair as Lucius Malfoy entered the room with an air of weariness. The tension around Lucius was palpable, hinting at recent troubles that had beset him.
"Lucius," Artel greeted evenly, taking note of the subtle shift in demeanor from the once-confident Malfoy patriarch.
Lucius acknowledged Artel with a nod, his expression troubled. "Artel, my apologies for the delay. It's been a turbulent time," he explained, visibly relieved that Artel had arrived safely.
Artel waved off the concern with a hint of amusement. "No worries. I understand things have been hectic. Tea?" he offered casually, nodding to the cup before him.
As Artel sipped the tea, the hurried footsteps from downstairs heralded Lucius' arrival. Artel glanced up to see Lucius, a complex mix of frustration and determination etched on his face.
In recent months, Lucius had fallen from grace. Dismissed from his influential post on the school board, he found himself ostracized by former allies due to suspicions surrounding the Philosopher's Stone and Quirrell's mysterious disappearance. His attempts to leverage these incidents to rally support against Dumbledore had backfired spectacularly.
"Now, about the materials," Lucius began, his tone respectful yet tinged with urgency. He motioned to a large, magically expanded box brought in by his assistant, containing rare potion ingredients collected under challenging circumstances.
"The Magical Congress's reconstruction and the influx of dark wizards into North America have strained our usual channels," Lucius explained, his voice betraying a touch of frustration. "Some materials were particularly scarce, given the circumstances."
Artel nodded understandingly, eyeing the array of ingredients thoughtfully. Despite the setbacks, he knew Lucius had managed to assemble a respectable collection. "This will suffice," Artel replied calmly, his gaze meeting Lucius'. "You've done well considering the circumstances."
Lucius visibly relaxed, reassured by Artel's approval. "Thank you, my lord," he responded, a mix of deference and relief evident in his voice.
As Artel began to inspect the materials, Lucius lingered nearby, his manner now more composed. Despite the challenges and setbacks, both knew they shared a common goal—one that required careful planning and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
Artel's encounter with Lucius Malfoy showcased both his strategic acumen and his ability to navigate delicate negotiations with finesse. After seamlessly storing away the owl witch statue in his system space, Artel casually revealed a golden statue depicting a woman with an owl on her shoulders—a priceless relic known as the owl witch statue, symbolizing Magical Congress.
Lucius Malfoy, initially stunned by the statue's appearance, quickly realized its immense value, both monetarily and symbolically. However, despite his initial temptation, Lucius understood the repercussions of possessing such a significant artifact, especially one with a controversial history involving theft and international implications. Reluctantly, he declined Artel's offer to acquire the statue, opting instead for a more straightforward exchange involving gold Galleons and rare magical items from the Magic Congress.
Artel, ever pragmatic, accepted Lucius's decision without pressure, preferring to streamline his dealings and avoid unnecessary complications. He understood Lucius's caution, especially given Saruman's notorious reputation and legal issues within the wizarding world.
Once their transaction concluded and afternoon tea concluded on a cordial note, Artel sensed Lucius's tentative interest in establishing a closer relationship, albeit tempered by his practical considerations.
Aware of the delicate balance in their interactions, Artel left Knockturn Alley and ventured into a secluded forest in northern England, preparing to utilize his system for another purpose.
When ready, he turned on the system.
"System, put the Angmar Witch King by my side!"