Kapitel 232: Chapter 231 "Barty Crouch's Worth"

With this in mind, Crouch came to a decisive resolution. He gently shook his head and asserted, "It's not in my nature to hide when facing danger." His eyes were unwavering, pausing briefly before he continued in a deep tone, "Currently, Great Britain may appear peaceful on the surface, but beneath lies an undercurrent. I'm aware that several pure-blood families are covertly relocating personnel. The International Cooperation Department under my charge has apprehended spies from France, the Nordic regions, Eastern Europe, and even North America, indicating foreign forces are closely monitoring us."

His gray pupils flickered with an intensity that contrasted with his worn appearance, revealing a shrewd and sharp demeanor. "Clearly, the aftermath of the Dark Mark at the Quidditch World Cup is spreading. Although the traces of the Shadow of the Dragon are concealed, elite figures from various countries may have sensed them. Earlier, in Southeast Asia, the Indonesian Ministry of Magic fell to a dark wizard. Initially dismissed as a minor incident, recent developments suggest new leads. The dark wizard appears to have a rather significant origin..."

"Whether the enigmatic figure truly returns to life or not," Crouch drew a deep breath, his tone marked by gravity and solemnity, "In my view, the onset of turbulent times is inevitable. While no one welcomes the advent of such times, we must acknowledge that it is our opportunity to make the most astute decisions and take meaningful actions—"

"—decisions that will shape the future trajectory and destiny of us all!"

Skyler felt thoroughly content, immensely satisfied, "It's a great report, Mr. Crouch. I haven't read or heard any news regarding of what's happening in the wizarding world outside of the Britain scenes. This report of yours will undoubtedly have a lot of effects on our plan moving forward. Thank you."

Hearing Skyler commended him on his general report which is something that he's been doing for the last years of his life, Crouch felt a bit of joy in his heart.

There's a Muggle proverb that goes, "Like father, like son." However, the reverse is also true. By examining a son's character and talents, one can glean insights into the abilities and talents of his father.

"Judging solely by IQ, Crouch Jr. undeniably stands among the individuals with the highest IQ in the original work, perhaps only surpassed by Dumbledore." Skyler thought as he recollected the original story.

In terms of academic prowess, he surpasses even Hermione. Achieving the 12th Owl certificate in fifth grade was a feat beyond Hermione's reach.

Within the entire original wizarding world, only Bill Weasley, the eldest son, and Percy Weasley, the third son of the Weasley family, can rival him in this aspect.

Furthermore, Crouch Jr. isn't confined to the realm of academic prowess.

In the arena of practical combat, he swiftly joined the Death Eaters right after completing his studies, attaining the Dark Mark in the briefest span possible.

The Dark Mark signifies the innermost circle of Death Eaters, and though the exact time of receiving it isn't disclosed in the original novel, he unquestionably stands as the youngest Death Eater.

Shortly after breaking free from his father's Imperius Curse, he was on the verge of collaborating with Peter Pettigrew to discreetly... Under these circumstances, they managed to capture the authentic Alastor Moody, the second-ranking figure in the Order of the Phoenix.

It's noteworthy that this took place in Crazy Eyes Moody's residence, making it a formidable challenge to apprehend the high-ranking member without alerting anyone.

The entire process only triggered the defense mechanism of a trash can, drawing the attention of Muggle police. Crazy-Eye Moody didn't even get a chance to call for assistance.

In terms of cunning and skill, he successfully masqueraded as Dumbledore's most trusted friend, Crazy Eyes Moody, right under Dumbledore's vigilant gaze. His true identity only surfaced at the conclusion of the Triwizard Tournament.

These essential traits include potion mastery, Occlumency, mimicry skills, adaptability, strategic thinking, keen observation, and remarkable courage.

Throughout the intricate process of assisting Harry in winning the Triwizard Tournament, he displayed an acute understanding of the personalities of Harry, Cedric, and Dobby.

Crouch Jr. efficiently organized everyone, showcasing superhuman planning, strategic, and organizational abilities.

(Note: Rowling herself mentioned during a visit to Montir Elementary School in North America on October 14, 1999, that Hermione is portrayed as a quasi-genius who works very hard, not a true academic master. The notion of academic prodigies with exceptionally high IQs is a creation of fan authors for reader enjoyment.)

Skyler envisions the kind of person Crouch was before facing the dual blows to his career and family. Despite exchanging fewer than ten sentences, their mutual understanding and unspoken connection reveal their quick grasp of each other's thoughts.

Skyler appreciates conversing with intelligent individuals like Crouch, as it streamlines the process and minimizes the need for unnecessary effort. It becomes clear that his decision to recruit Crouch was indeed well-founded.

It's not in vain that he invested so much effort and time engaging in seemingly nonsensical conversations with Harry and challenging Dumbledore.

Skyler smiled, focusing on the expression on Crouch's face, a glimmer of wisdom in his eyes. "What? Are you still fixated on the position of Minister of Magic?"

Crouch hesitated upon hearing this, tightly pursing his lips, contemplating Skyler's implied meaning, "No, it's just I've been wondering. What kind of person are you supposed to be, especially after meeting you for the first time."

Despite his intense ambition, he found himself in a peculiar situation under Skyler's scrutinizing gaze. Intuition warned him against harboring aspirations for the Minister of Magic position, especially in the presence of this young man.

"You are about to learn what kind of man I am, Mr. Crouch. Back to the earlier question, are you still fixated on the seat of Minister of Magic?" Skyler asked with a slight smile on his lips.

After a thoughtful pause, he sighed heavily, speaking with a touch of fervor, "If I didn't aspire to be Minister of Magic, I'd be deceiving myself."

However," he added with determination, "the role of Minister of Magic is no longer suitable for me. My reputation and standing in the eyes of the public have been significantly tarnished and questioned."

"Most people no longer trust my abilities. I fear they all believe..."

A slight expression of pain appeared on his face. "A person who can't even be a father, what qualifications does he have to manage a wizarding country?"

Skyler nodded with satisfaction, pleased with Crouch's understanding of when to advance, retreat, and exercise self-restraint. This alone positioned him well ahead of Fudge and Scrimgeour.

Simultaneously, Skyler was confident that if Barty Jr. hadn't deceived his father back then, Barty Sr.'s position as Minister of Magic would have been unassailable and impervious to challenge.

"You are right," Skyler acknowledged with some sympathy. "Although it's harsh, you are indeed no longer suitable for the position of Minister of Magic... that role." The corners of Skyler's mouth lifted slightly. "I already have my preference. The person has been chosen..."

"It's Amelia, right?" Crouch smiled. Having made the decision to let go, Crouch's thoughts became clearer. In a moment of realization, he understood that Skyler likely had a comprehensive plan for the Ministry of Magic, with all key positions predetermined in his mind.

He couldn't help but feel a bit dazed. Is this Malfoy really just a boy under 15 years old?

Why did he feel that this boy was much scarier than his father, Lucius, who was famous for his shrewdness and cunning?

"Well," Skyler did not deny it. "Mrs. Bones has the ability, strength, background, political skills, and personal reputation. She is the most suitable for this position." What Skyler did not say was that Amelia's niece is one of his confidants, so the connection between the two of them runs far deeper and closer than it appears on the surface.