Hogwarts: Third Dark Lord

Ilona remained silent, standing firmly in the way of Dumbledore and Wentworth. It was only after a long pause that she finally spoke.

"Headmaster Dumbledore, as Wentworth's Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, I must insist: this is beyond what he can handle. There's no meaningful growth to be had from this ordeal."

"If you are set on taking him, then I request that you bring me along as well. I will stay by his side and ensure no harm comes to him."

Dumbledore narrowed his eyes slightly, his expression gentle as he replied, "Professor Ilona, I must disagree. Some battles, even as mere observers, offer young witches and wizards invaluable experience. Lessons that can't be learned from books. Unless, of course, this wizard plans to pursue a desk job at the Ministry of Magic."

"Moreover, as Headmaster of Hogwarts, it is my duty to protect every student. I can assure you that Wentworth's safety is in capable hands. Or do you expect me to take an Unbreakable Vow?"

Ilona hesitated, her resolve wavering. Professor Sprout stepped in to ease the tension.

"Now, now, Headmaster Dumbledore, we trust you implicitly. Professor Ilona is simply looking out for Wentworth's best interests. The boy is indeed quite endearing. As for any Unbreakable Vow, I think that's entirely unnecessary, don't you?"

Sprout's attempt to mediate was well-placed. After all, compelling someone to take an Unbreakable Vow in the wizarding world is an act that implies distrust.

Surely, no one doubted Dumbledore's dedication to his students. If he couldn't be trusted, then who could?

Hearing Sprout's words, Ilona sighed deeply and shook her head. "Very well, Headmaster Dumbledore. There's no need for an Unbreakable Vow. The magical world has its own ways of holding you accountable. And, frankly, I can think of one wizard who would be willing to oversee or share such a vow with you."

Dumbledore nodded, his expression neutral. "Indeed, Professor. You're correct. But I suspect he would be more inclined to agree with my approach."

Ilona flushed slightly at his response, then stepped aside, turning briskly to leave. "I'll go join the students for a game of Exploding Snap. I trust you'll return safely, and quickly at that."

Watching her retreating figure, Snape furrowed his brow and glanced at Dumbledore. The Headmaster shook his head lightly and then turned his attention to Wentworth.

"Well, Wentworth, are you ready?"

Realizing that even Ilona, his Defense Against the Dark Arts professor, had failed to dissuade Dumbledore from taking him on this "learning experience," Wentworth knew there was no avoiding it tonight.

He gripped his wand tightly, raising it in one hand while pressing the other to his chest, touching the pendant hidden beneath his robes. After taking a deep breath, he nodded resolutely at Dumbledore.

Dumbledore watched him with a kind smile, placing a hand on Wentworth's arm as they reached for the enchanted pumpkin lantern.

"Wait!"

Wentworth's sudden shout startled everyone. Dumbledore quickly turned to him.

"What is it, Wentworth?"

The young wizard hesitated before looking toward Snape. "Professor Snape, considering the uncertainty of my survival, don't you have something to give me? Something… that might increase my chances?"

Snape's face darkened. "With such cowardice and greed, I can scarcely believe you're a Hufflepuff."

Despite his words, Snape reached into his robes and tossed a small vial to Wentworth.

Wentworth caught it eagerly, holding it up to examine the shimmering liquid within. Its beauty was mesmerizing.

"This is… Felix Felicis?"

Snape scowled. "Just try not to do anything stupid. Frankly, I can't imagine anyone managing to harm you while you're under Dumbledore's protection and have luck on your side."

Before Wentworth could respond, Snape turned on his heel and left the room.

"Thank you, Professor Snape!" Wentworth called after him. Snape paused briefly before continuing on as if he hadn't heard.

"Now, can we go?"

Even Dumbledore seemed to be growing impatient. Wentworth clutched his wand in one hand and the vial of Felix Felicis in the other, nodding firmly.

Dumbledore grabbed Wentworth's shoulder and reached for the pumpkin lantern again.

The moment Dumbledore's hand touched it, Wentworth felt a hook behind his navel yank him forward with irresistible force. His feet left the ground, and he soared through the air.

After what felt like an eternity, his feet finally touched solid ground. Voices filled the air around him as the dizzying sensation began to fade.

"Finally! The boy's here! Took long enough. Oh? And an old man too… too… too…"

"Once is enough!" a sinister voice hissed impatiently. "Do I look deaf to you?"

"Not at all! I mean, the old man. There's an old man here!"

"And? Ask him who he is. If he's useless, we kill him."

"But… that old man is Dumbledore! Albus Dumbledore!"

Silence fell instantly.

As Wentworth's vertigo subsided, he gripped his wand tightly, scanning his surroundings. He and Dumbledore stood in a clearing within a dense forest, surrounded by seven or eight wizards.

Directly ahead, a bald man stared at Dumbledore with a mix of terror and disbelief. Beside him, a smaller wizard cloaked in shadow remained motionless.

While Wentworth observed them, they were studying him as well. Neither side spoke, the only sound breaking the silence being the occasional caw of crows from deep within the forest.

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