บท 117: Chapter 117: For the Greater Good
"Grindelwald?" Lockhart was taken aback by Dumbledore's words.
Gellert Grindelwald, the first Dark Lord whom Dumbledore had defeated, was known as Dumbledore's best friend, 'lover,' and a pioneering revolutionary in the wizarding world. In his previous life, Lockhart had often heard discussions about Grindelwald's title.
But Dumbledore's sudden reference left him feeling a bit lost. Could Dumbledore see him as a potential third-generation Dark Lord after Voldemort? The thought seemed ridiculous, but Lockhart quickly dismissed his irrelevant thoughts and focused on listening to the Headmaster.
"Principal, please tell me more."
Dumbledore waved his wand, and a glass of honey tea floated in front of Lockhart. "Don't worry, Lockhart, try the honey tea. Let's talk while we drink."
Candies and snacks floated in front of them as well. Lockhart took a sip and listened attentively.
"Gellert Grindelwald—people of your age may not have much impression of him," Dumbledore began slowly. "After all, you weren't even born when he gained his fame. But you should have heard of his name in history books as a dark lord."
Lockhart looked surprised. "A dark lord?"
"Yes," Dumbledore nodded. "Do you know why he is called a dark lord?"
"Is it because too many wizards died because of him?" Lockhart speculated.
"You're right," Dumbledore affirmed. "Back then, not only wizards but also a large number of Muggles died because of him. What you know about World War II was actually Grindelwald supporting Hitler behind the scenes. The deaths of hundreds of millions of creatures are all related to him."
A trace of surprise flashed across Lockhart's face. In his previous life, he only knew Grindelwald started a war in the wizarding world, causing many wizard deaths. He hadn't known about the influence on World War II.
"Do you know a slogan that Grindelwald's alliance often shouted?" Dumbledore asked. Without waiting for Lockhart's response, he continued, "For the greater good. Grindelwald was a classic wizard supremacist. He believed that Muggles were too great a threat and that wizards should rule them to ensure their safety."
Lockhart nodded thoughtfully.
"What do you think of Grindelwald's point of view?" Dumbledore asked suddenly.
Lockhart pondered for a moment. "As a wizard, from a wizard's perspective, I can understand Grindelwald's thoughts."
Then, fearing he might say too much, Lockhart stopped.
Dumbledore wasn't disappointed and continued, "The point he raised is very tempting. Wizards are superior. No wizard would reject such a view. But he failed in the end. Do you know why?"
Lockhart replied seriously, "Because you defeated Grindelwald. He saw no hope for the future."
The first part of his answer was perfunctory, but the latter part reflected his genuine thoughts. Dumbledore's defeat was significant, but Lockhart believed that the emergence of nuclear bombs shattered Grindelwald's hopes. His ideals crumbled, his loved one betrayed him, and he was besieged by the wizarding world. Finally, he chose to imprison himself in Nurmengard.
Otherwise, Lockhart might still hear about Grindelwald's activities. For a top powerhouse, betrayal or siege wasn't the biggest fear—it was the loss of hope. When lifelong pursuits become illusions, few can endure such a blow. Yet, such individuals, once they see hope, become more driven than anyone else.
Dumbledore shook his head at Lockhart's answer and spoke seriously, "Because he was against order."
Hogwarts, Defense Against the Dark Arts Office
After returning from the Headmaster's office, Lockhart sat in his chair, revising his plans. Dumbledore's decision to join his magical research made him happy, but their conversation left him contemplative. There were flaws in his plan, or perhaps he had underestimated the enemy. Lockhart felt pressured but not overly worried. Strength was the ultimate guarantee.
Traveling through the Marvel world, the potential of his power was beyond any wizard's imagination. The Marvel world had entities called multiverses, expanding his horizons immensely.
After a moment, Lockhart took out Voldemort's Horcrux and placed it before him. He used his soul body projection to enter the soul illusion space of the Horcrux, planning to use its simulation function for magic research.
When the contract was signed, Lockhart was pleased with Tom's performance in all aspects. He is a worthy assistant.
Tuesday Morning, Diagon Alley, Gringotts
Lockhart stood at the entrance of Gringotts, reading the inscription on the bronze door with a sarcastic smile.
Come in, stranger, but be careful. What will happen if you are greedy? Just asking for something, getting something for nothing, will be punished the most severely...
This verse warned of the severe punishment awaiting thieves. But to Lockhart, it felt ironic, given goblins' notorious greed for treasure.
Lockhart gathered his thoughts and stepped through the bronze door into the spacious marble hall. Goblins, perched on high stools, were attending to customers behind the long counter.
Lockhart glanced around, found the least crowded spot, and waited silently. Tonight, he and Snape were attending a high-level dark wizard auction, featuring many valuable items. He needed more gold Galleons and planned to withdraw all his stored belongings from Gringotts. Trusting goblins with his treasures was foolish, especially if they turned against him.
Soon, it was his turn. The goblin on the high stool looked down at Lockhart, asking expressionlessly, "Mr. Lockhart, what business do you wish to transact?"
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