The Sanfrontier College of Witchcraft and Wizardry was widely regarded as the premier institution of magical learning on the eastern seaboard of North America. Year after year, tens of thousands of aspiring students from diverse backgrounds flocked to its doors, vying for a coveted spot among the ranks of its select cohort.
What set this institution apart was its unique approach, which prioritized the admission of individuals with exceptional talent rather than those with a lineage of magical ancestry. Instead, the majority of its student body comprised «youngsters» — individuals who had only recently discovered their magical abilities and hailed from the realm of mundane existence.
The curriculum at the college was characterized by its diversity, reflecting the wide range of specializations available. Students could pursue paths in fields such as biological alchemy, mentalistic psychology, ritualistic linguistics, artifact engineering, and many more.
The administration of the academy firmly believed that it was far more advantageous to instruct adults rather than children, as adults possessed a solid foundation in non-magical subjects, exhibited greater psychological stability, and approached their studies with greater seriousness. This was particularly true given that Sanfrontier offered a dual diploma, and a college education would prevent them from being completely detached from the mundane world, allowing them to seamlessly navigate between both realms.
Nevertheless, these challenges could not be entirely circumvented. Once the applicants, formerly school-aged individuals, became aware of magic, their childhood instincts inevitably reasserted themselves. The students, particularly the first-year students, were eager to engage in various experiments, often without any theoretical grounding or consideration for safety.
The Department of Ritualism bore the brunt of the situation, as it was their responsibility to mitigate the dire consequences of numerous ill-fated experiments. Grimm, already reluctant to dismiss Bloody Mary from the school — for she was the spirit most frequently summoned by aspiring students — was inwardly relieved that his frugal colleague, Mr. Clio, had replenished his minibar in time for the impending arrival of Baron Samedi.
However, with the advent of new discoveries in the field of magic, new challenges emerged that became increasingly difficult to address with each passing year. Such was the case this time around.
Last year, a graduate of the college, engaged in his thesis work, managed to demonstrate that the realms of books are as tangible as those beyond the veil and through the mirror, and they fall under the category of parallel universes. Consequently, it became possible to establish portals leading to these realms. This revelation sparked a genuine sensation.
While enthusiasts of classic literature or detective tales reacted to this news with relative composure, ardent admirers of fantasy and science fiction could not remain indifferent.
Tolkien enthusiasts and Harry Potter fans were the most active participants in these experiments. While the former might still find some appeal in the enchanting Middle Ages, with its beautiful elves and grandiose battles, the magical England of the late 20th century seemed exceedingly dull and uninspiring to them, despite the ongoing conflict.
Robert had to thoroughly study both these worlds, as it was crucial to understand the potential consequences if his students managed to successfully open a portal to these realms. The possibility that they might attempt to bring any book characters into our world was unlikely, as the participants sought to experience the thrill of adventure firsthand, aspiring to become their own heroes and saviors, ready to protect their beloved fictional inhabitants from harm. Thankfully, Grimm's intervention often prevented such attempts even during the preparatory stages of the rituals.. It is fortunate that the gentlemen selected approximately the same time for their rituals: either midnight or one in the morning, seldom at three. Had one of them attempted to conduct the rite at a different time, such as ten in the morning instead of the initial pair, or during lunchtime, someone would have intervened. It is difficult to keep track of all students throughout the day. At night, there are few options: if a student is not present in their room, it implies that they have either attended a gathering at the house of alchemists with the intention of imbibing copiously or are engaged in some sort of strictly forbidden ritual. The key here is to arrive before these conspiratorial practitioners light the fire.
Grimm hurried along the passageway of the scholarly edifice, his gaze keenly scrutinizing for the slightest discrepancies from the anticipated reality. Detecting a faint alarm mechanism near the floor, the professor smirked and proceeded with silent footsteps. Swiftly unlocking the door to the lecture hall, he emitted a soft expletive: the intruders had fled. Leaping to the open window, Robert peered out and discerned a figure clad in a vivid green hoodie adorned with a golden circle on the back vanishing around the corner of the edifice.
"There they go again. For the third time this month!"
Grimm shook his head in dismay and closed the window. As his gaze swept over the classroom, another sigh escaped his lips. The intruders hastily vacated the auditorium, leaving no time to erase their traces of the ritual, or perhaps they presumed they had gone unnoticed and could return later to resume.
Grimm extinguished the candles in the chamber and switched on the conventional electric lighting. The lamps fluttered a few times before glowing fully, illuminating the scene of the ritual. The mirrors, the pentagram, the book with the familiar figure of a bespectacled boy on its cover, and the small bowl brimming with an unknown liquid.
The professor seized the bowl and sniffed its contents. No blood — thankfully. He dripped a few drops onto a blank piece of parchment, then nodded to himself — ink, ordinary ink.
"So they wished to rewrite history once more!"
With a few gestures, Grimm erased all traces of the ritual from the room. After pushing the mirror into a remote corner and ensuring that no portal had materialized, he finally seized the book. Opening the first volume of The Boy Who Lived's adventures, he was delighted to discover an inscription on its inner pages: "Property of M. K. Amber."
"What intrigues, what adventures?" exclaimed Merlin. "They didn't even take the important evidence, Miss Amber! Well, you're not getting away with it this time."
Grimm opened the book and extracted a whimsical three-dimensional bookmark with a miniature image of the Snitch. He then immersed himself in reading a marked passage.
"I encountered him during my travels across the globe. I was naïve, foolish, and possessed foolish notions of right and wrong. Lord Voldemort demonstrated to me how mistaken I was. There is no such thing as good and evil — there is merely power, and those who lack the strength to pursue it... Ever since then, I have been his loyal servant, albeit, regrettably, I have betrayed him on more than one occasion."
The name of the primary antagonist in the saga was encircled within an oval, with a brief postscript reading "Body capture" and "An intriguing moment."
«It is regrettable that the book is intended for children, and there is no separate category for foolish magicians who, upon reaching their full power, behave like apes with a grenade. It is up to adults to deal with evil sorcerers, rather than shifting this responsibility onto children!»
Robert flipped the page too hastily, causing his finger to graze the sharp edge of the paper, leaving a barely visible trail of blood in its wake.
There was a faint tap on the glass behind him. Robert turned around, wishing he had concealed the mirror. Instead of his usual reflection, he saw a silent scene playing out in the depths of the mirror. A pallid sorcerer in a robes stood in the center of a forest clearing, with a dark spirit swirling around him. Grimly, Robert watched for a moment, then shook his head. «No, I did not sign up for this.»
"Where are you going?" There was an indignant exclamation as he approached the door of the office, and a slender, translucent hand emerged from the mirror, clutching Grimm's wrist with painful force.
"Malediction, you are not who you seem, release me at once."
"It is not for you, O Witness of the Oath, to decide when you may depart and when not!" A clear outline of a woman's countenance appeared on the surface of the mirror.
"Mary, if this is some jest of yours, it is not amusing to me."
The woman in the reflection laughed heartily. "Oh, no, Robert, you are mistaken. Would an ordinary spirit possess the strength to breach the veil into another realm?"
"This is certainly entertaining, miss, but how does it concern me, pardon me?" The conjurer attempted to twist his arm, but it would have been easier to sever his hand than escape the iron grasp of this enigmatic lady.
"I was drawn by your words regarding the duty of adults to safeguard children."
Robert shrugged. There was nothing extraordinary about it; it was perfectly normal to care for unintelligent creatures. However, his attention was drawn to another aspect.
"Why did I come to you? You did not call me, nor did you respond to the calls of your students. They may be legally adults, but from a magical perspective, they are still fledglings. And you struck me as a sensible and responsible individual."
Grimm countered, "That's precisely why I cannot venture into your realm. I am a professor, with classes tomorrow and exams in a month. I have no time for adventures!"
The stranger sighed, "So young, yet you complain like an elderly man. Most would beg me to allow you to cross the boundaries of reality; you, on the other hand, seem indifferent to the prospect!"
The man had a flicker of hope that the enigmatic woman would scorn him and depart, but no such luck. She gave Grimm a sharp tug, drawing him towards her with force, compelling him to traverse through the mirror's surface. It was as if a pail of frigid water had been upended upon him in that instant.
"Welcome to my realm," the ethereal woman smiled radiantly, and Grimm observed that she, like his companion, appeared to be composed of a luminous mist. "Before you ask any questions, I must inform you that no one will detect your absence, as the temporal lines of your worlds are not intertwined in any way. You shall not return home until your destiny is fulfilled," the stranger added, seeing Robert's skeptical expression.
"Oh, the fact that you are not an inhabitant of this world but merely a visitor does not diminish your influence in the slightest. After all, even the smallest pebble can alter the trajectory of a ball rolling down a slope. In any case, you are at liberty to do as you please, but if your sole desire is to sit in a hole and wait for everything to conclude," there was a chilly edge to her voice, "I shall be deeply disappointed. You have been granted the honor of becoming a participant in this drama, so show deference, and play your part with dignity."! And so, in order to provide you with additional motivation, — the stranger gave Grimm a push in the back, causing him to feel as if he were being sucked into the form of a strange sorcerer along with the dark mist, — I will say this: if you perform exceptionally well in the first act, you will be granted the opportunity to regain possession of your own body within a year.
Grimm experienced a sensation akin to being pulled through the eye of a needle, only to find himself standing in a living room, surrounded by two other sorcerers who gazed at him with astonishment.
"Damnation… Magic," Robert exclaimed. "Now what am I to do?"
"I do not believe in higher powers!" exclaimed the one who had attempted to take the life of a child based solely on a prophecy. Voldemort gnashed his teeth in frustration. In the real world, he would have cast the Avada Kedavra spell at this insolent man long ago. However, the extradimensional sorcerer was correct when he stated that it was futile to engage in conflict in the realm of logic.
Nevertheless, the Dark Lord had been fortunate to be discovered in that remote location by the simpleton Quirrell. He did not wish to lose such a valuable vessel simply because of the words of another sorcerer. Moreover, based on his emotional state, it appeared that the man himself was unhappy to be there.
"Gentlemen, obsession is not a pleasant state for the body due to the clash of two souls, and we are even more than two here. Therefore, if we wish to accomplish our objectives, we must collaborate. For any conflict within these confines," Grimm gestured around the space, "will cause this fragile vessel to founder before it reaches its destination.
Mr. Quirrell, I have no intention of interfering with your plans so long as they do not endanger my safety. In fact, I would be happy to assist you if it expedites my departure from your esteemed company.
Voldemort regarded his interlocutor with a thoughtful gaze. He still harbored doubts that this sorcerer had been brought to this place by some supernatural entity, yet the man did not seem particularly hostile. The Dark Lord attempted to delve into his mind, but mental defenses deflected his probe.
Subsequently, Grimm declared that if another attempt at telepathic intrusion were made, it would be perceived as an act of aggression, rendering any further discussion of cooperation futile. Voldemort mused that, after all, an ally is preferable to an adversary. However, he remained ignorant of the man's identity beyond his name.
"Mr. Quirrell," he addressed the sorcerer, "are you not concerned about chilling your kidneys?" His irritation was directed at the magician who had refrained from intervening in their debate earlier. "Might you deign to relocate from this damp woodland to a more agreeable location?"
«You are correct», the erstwhile professor of Muggle Studies nodded, and vanished into thin air, though his presence lingered in the atmosphere.
As soon as Quirrell departed, Voldemort cast a soundproof shield and pointed his wand at the Grim.
«What do you know of the prophecy?» Voldemort hissed, his eyes transforming into two slits. «You have attacked the wrong person!»
«Take your time, my Lord», the wizard responded, perfectly replicating Voldemort's hiss in tone, moving closer to him, noting with irritation that he was a full head shorter than his adversary.
"As you can see, I am a Grim, and I am aware of the prophecy," he continued. "I also know the details of your birth and death. Who do you think I am?"
Robert observed how Voldemort's pupils gradually dilated, indicating that it was crucial to continue the deception.
"Quite so, my lady assumes various forms, and why should her emissaries be limited to canine guises?" Grimm portrayed the most predacious grin he was capable of mustering. "No matter how far you flee from her, sire, sooner or later, you will encounter her. My lady has infinite patience. Even Nicholas Flamel, inventor of the philosopher's stone, will eventually come to her. Even the Peverell brothers fell prey to her. Thus, your games with Horcruxes merely anger her," Voldemort sank slowly into the chair that materialized from the void, and Grimm was inwardly elated: if you wish to defeat an adversary, play upon their fears.
"Believe me, your actions are only making matters worse for you. By tearing your soul apart, you are tearing your consciousness asunder, and as a consequence, instead of becoming a great and terrifying sorcerer, you will degenerate into an unbalanced and uncritical psychopath, far removed from the ruler of the world.
You are playing with fire, Mr. Riddle, and it could easily consume you. I saw the sparks of anger ignite in the wizard's eyes, and I realized it was time for me to change my approach.
"Please note: Grindelwald was also known as the Dark Lord. Have you any idea what brought about the demise of your predecessor? It was his excessive self-confidence. Would you like to know what will bring about your downfall? Voldemort shook his head in response. "That's right, it's best not to know your fate; otherwise, it will become a certainty."
"What kind of game are we playing?" the voice of the dark magician sounded muffled and distant.
"A game?" Grimm sat down on the edge of the table, deep in thought. "You are right. I have been granted the power to rewrite the plot of this drama, and I intend to elevate your significance to a new level, so that you can fully live up to your title. The Dark Lord may sound proud, but a powerful figure such as yourself should not only have servants, but also advisors. Thus, I have taken on this role. Are you in agreement with me?"
"And what benefit is it to me?" The Dark Lord appeared suspicious, clearly unwilling to accept the proposal without hesitation.
Grimm raised an eyebrow in a rather irritated manner, already displeased that he had been tasked with persuading a bookish villain to join the big leagues.
"Your entire guard is in front of Dumbledore, the Ministry, and the Aurora — half are in jail, and half have barely paid off due to your mark," the wizard said, and at these words the lord visibly ground his teeth, though the wizard did not seem to care. "Quirrell and I are off the grid, let it remain that way — we can operate in secret without drawing too much attention to ourselves. But I'm an outsider — your enemies won't be able to anticipate my actions, so when they figure out our plans, it'll be too late."
"Will they figure out the plans?" the lord asked, nostrils flaring with anger.
"My lord, well, you know that seizing power isn't a one-sided game. The enemy won't sit idly by — they'll take action too. Our goal is to stay ahead of them by leaps and bounds."
Voldemort mused. On the one hand, the wizard had spoken correctly, but on the other...
"I will accept your assistance, but only upon the condition of an oath of fealty," the man stipulated.
Grimm shook his head. "My lord, I regret to inform you that my lady, the one who brought me here, would not permit me to swear such an oath. My existence is in her keeping. You must take my word."
The Dark Lord pondered. To bring someone unbound by vows closer to one's side meant exposing oneself to vulnerability. However, this wizard had already demonstrated a depth of knowledge beyond what he professed, and the power behind him commanded respect. The risk was considerable, but... having Grim as an ally was preferable to an enemy.
"Very well. I concede. And I am willing to place my trust in you. After all, victory comes with risk."
"I wholeheartedly concur with you, my liege," Grimm extended his hand towards Voldemort, who reciprocated the gesture. "Well, are you prepared to ascend to the summit?"
***
Having assumed a corporeal form, the Dark Lord aspired to return to beloved England as swiftly as possible. Upon examining the memories of his newly acquired servant, he rejoiced at the revelation that Quirrell, a former professor at Hogwarts, had been in Dumbledore's good graces, making it easier to gain entry into the castle. Furthermore, it was rumored that Harry Potter would be attending this year.
Mr. Grimm, having listened to Voldemort's plans, merely nodded in agreement, for he himself harbored a fascination with delving into the legends of the wizarding world firsthand. The return to the premier institution of magic in the United Kingdom proceeded with minimal hiccups. Dumbledore, delighted by the arrival of a new professor, inquired about his travels around the globe. However, upon hearing of the vacancy, Dumbledore shook his head in dismay.
"Professor Quirrell," I said, "you have been away for a full year now, and I could not keep the Muggle Studies position vacant for so long. Mrs. Burbage performs her duties admirably, and I am loath to part with her services.
If you truly wish to return to Hogwarts, the only position I can offer is that of Professor of Divination. Moreover, Mr. Hornfield has informed me that he will not be teaching next year due to family obligations. Can you accept this challenge?"
Quirinus appeared hesitant, and but for a mental nudge from the Dark Lord, it would have been difficult for him to respond.
"As you are aware, I have passed the Defence exam with distinction," Quirinus commenced timidly. However, encouraged by the voice and guidance of Grimm, he began to speak with greater confidence. "Indeed, during my journey, I encountered a remarkable number of perilous creatures of the dark. There are yet five months before the commencement of the school term, and if you question my abilities, Mr. Dumbledore," Quirrell gave a slight twitch of his chin at these words, "I am prepared to undertake the qualifying examination in this field at the Ministry."
"Oh, there is no need for that, my friend," the headmaster waved his hand dismissively. "The most important thing is that your confidence is intact. Return in a month's time, and we shall conclude a formal agreement then."
Quirrell departed for a brief period and, upon leaving Hogwarts, Apparated to his residence at the junction of Horizontal Alley and Karkitt Market. There, he intended to discuss their future plans with the Nobleman.
"I think it would be prudent to investigate the Ministry, specifically the Department of Magical Law Enforcement," I suggested.
"Why?" Lord Voldemort and Professor Quirrell inquired in unison.
"Firstly, we need your wand, My Lord. If one of your followers did not take it, it is likely in the Evidence Department. Most likely, your remains after disembodiment will also be there if there is anything left. Your remains will be essential for the resurrection ritual, but we cannot remain in the same form forever.
"Pettigrew likely took the wand," the Dark Lord mused, "but it is not a bad idea regarding the remains. We must also interview the head of the department. Who heads the department now?"
"Madam Bones," Quirrell commenced, riffling through the stacks of newspapers dating back to the 1980s. The library at Horizontal Alley boasted an impressively comprehensive archive, and he spent his leisure hours there, only venturing home for sleep — having served as the head of the Department of Magical Law Enforcement since 1982. He had been a member of the Wizengamot since 1977, and was regarded as one of the finest witches of his time, with a particular prowess in dueling.
However, the bulk of the dog-nipping had occurred in 1981.
"Yes, Barty Crouch was still in charge back then," said Quirrell, catching Grimm's train of thought and switching to older newspaper articles. "He had already been promised the position of Minister for Magic, but his own son was on trial. Along with Bellatrix, Rabastan, and Rodolphus Lestrange, Crouch had been accused of torturing the obscurantist couple, Frank and Alice Longbottom, driving them to madness. The magical community was appalled by the brutality of the crime. Crouch himself presided over the trial, at the end of which he renounced his son in public," he read from a lengthy article.
"We need to question Crouch. I think he could tell us a great deal of interesting information," suggested Grimm.
The wizards agreed. There was much work to be done, and now that they knew where to start, the Dark Lord and his associates could begin to formulate a more coherent plan.
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GOT IT