Chapter 742

"Of course, wouldn't it be even better if Voldemort could tutor the students on the side and help witches and wizards from Muggle families with no magical foundation catch up with Hogwarts?" Tierra said with a wicked grin. "After all, Hogwarts doesn't keep idle hands around."

"Yes, yes, yes." Dumbledore shook his head helplessly and smiled. "I'd nearly forgotten just how thoroughly you've fleeced Voldemort."

"But I have to remind you of something." Dumbledore's smile vanished in an instant. "That child Voldemort has no shortage of wicked schemes in his head. Much of the time, his influence on those around him—especially young wizards whose minds have not fully matured—is subtle and gradual."

"You needn't worry about that at all," Tierra said dismissively. "Right now, he can't wait to keep his head down, because I—"

Tierra paused, then continued, "—am the indelible shadow hanging over his head."

"You're that certain?" Dumbledore asked.

Tierra smiled but said nothing. He merely opened his mouth wide, pointed at it with his index finger, then rubbed his stomach.

Everything was understood without words.

"Ah." Dumbledore could not help but sigh. "Prophets truly are terrifying. Even a wizard as brilliant as Voldemort cannot escape being so completely manipulated in the palm of your hand."

"Don't tell me you've suddenly found it in your heart to give him another chance to repent," Tierra asked, raising an eyebrow.

"My pity and care are for Harry, for Neville, and for the countless poor children who lost their loved ones because of Voldemort and his Death Eaters." Dumbledore's expression darkened slightly. "They are not for executioners, nor for their accomplices."

"Then—" Tierra said.

"But I must remind you of one thing," Dumbledore suddenly interrupted. "I have no objection to your imprisoning those Death Eaters and Voldemort's followers in the Ministry