A Farewell to You, Rufus

Dumbledore and Moody talked about many things, some concerning the attack, others concerning the Ministry of Magic.

Of all those topics, Moody was most interested in Vincent.

"That Christmas, he was only a child who had just started school. Who would have thought that in just a few years, he would grow strong enough to stand against the Death Eaters?"

Moody smiled, a rare sight. Yet combined with the countless scars on his face, it gave people an inexplicable sense of horror.

Dumbledore did not find it frightening. Instead, he seemed somewhat surprised. "Alastor, I had nearly forgotten that you were someone who could smile."

Moody's smile vanished. "Albus, are you like those people outside? Do you think I have some damned 'delusion disorder'?"

Dumbledore gently shook his head. "Of course I know what you are guarding against. I am simply surprised that you admire Vincent."

The corner of Moody's mouth rose slightly again. "That young man is very good. Exceptionally good."

He had the courage to face the Death Eaters head-on, and the ability to drive them back on his own.

Not to mention people his age—even among adult wizards, few possessed such skill.

Dumbledore's gaze upon his horrifying smile turned strange.

"Alastor, you are not thinking of taking him on as an apprentice, are you?"

Moody lowered his head and pondered for a moment, then firmly shook his head. "My style does not suit him. Nicolas Flamel has already taught him very well."

Dumbledore glanced at the Elder Wand lying on the table. "Yes, my old friend has indeed taught him very well. There is no need for us to worry about him at all."

Moody did not know that the old friend he referred to was actually someone else.

"Before I found out what had happened that