As a storm raged within Harry's heart, Dumbledore openly took a seat in the chair on the left.
He took a small sip of black tea before setting down the cup with lingering reluctance.
Noticing his gloves, Grindelwald showed a slightly surprised expression. "That loser actually managed to injure you? Albus, did you hesitate?"
Dumbledore visibly trembled. "No, Gellert, I did not hesitate. His power has grown stronger."
Albus? Gellert?
Before Harry could recover from the shock, another bolt of thunder struck him. Weren't these two once enemies? Why were they calling each other by their first names?
There was far too much information for his mind to process.
Filled with countless questions, he cautiously sat down in the chair on the right.
"So," Grindelwald's gaze moved between Harry and Dumbledore before finally settling on the lightning-shaped scar on Harry's forehead, "this is the child carrying a fragment of that loser's soul?"
Dumbledore gave a bitter smile. "To end the terror brought by Tom Riddle, Gellert, this child has already made his preparations."
Grindelwald turned toward Vincent, his gaze calm but carrying an irrepressible joy. "I read the news. The International Confederation of Wizards has made no progress at all these years. They are the most suitable stepping stone."
Vincent raised his chin slightly. "Teacher, I am not you. I do not have such great ambitions."
Grindelwald gave an evil smile, his steady voice exceptionally penetrating. "Some things may not unfold according to your plans. You should understand that deeply."
Vincent's gaze was resolute, as though it could pierce every unknown fog, carrying an unquestionable certainty. "But I will not cross the line."
A trace of understanding and appreciation appeared in Grindelwald's eyes. "Your answer has made me even more curious about the future."
He stood and slowly walked toward