The sun was still shining warmly, and the Street remained "normal."
But Jorkins felt an unprecedented chill and helplessness. He instinctively looked at the mysterious and powerful young man before him, his eyes filled with dependence and pleading.
Don't be nervous.
Looking at his anxious and uneasy appearance, Ian understood. This poor Wizard had probably become a key pawn in some unknown game.
And he himself seems to have been unwittingly drawn into this game because of today's intervention.
"It seems," Ian muttered to himself, his eyes darting across the grey London sky as if trying to see through the countless secrets and undercurrents hidden beneath.
"It's unlikely that we can 'observe' quietly for a while."
The curtain has been raised.
The actors began to appear on stage.
And he, this unexpected "audience member," seems to have been given a new role.
"What do I do?"
Jorkins swayed slightly, emerging from that dazed state, feeling as if he were surfacing from deep water; his head was a little throbbing, but his mind was clear.
He subconsciously touched his forehead, then looked at Ian, his eyes filled with tension and pleading. Jorkins knew that only the powerful figure before him could save him.
Ian did not speak immediately.
He lowered his eyes slightly, seemingly processing and integrating the information he had just seen. Silence descended once more into the alley, with only the distant sounds of the city serving as a blurred background.
In an instant.
The atmosphere became somewhat tense.
Jorkins waited anxiously, not daring to interrupt Ian's thoughts. After a moment, Ian looked up at Jorkins and calmly gave his conclusion.
" Mr. Jorkins, your memory is coherent, without any signs of tampering, except for that 'hint.' The existence of that hint is also confirmed, the method was very sophisticated, and its triggering mechanism is consistent with your description—as for the person who left the hint... he certainly had his purpose."
Ian paused, a thoughtful glint in his eyes. "His strength far surpasses that of ordinary Wizard, likely involving Ancient Magic or even the realm of Prophecy. Based on the current clues, his purpose leans towards 'protective guidance,' leading you to a place he believes might offer 'sanctuary' or 'a turning point.'"
Speaking of which...
Ian looked at Jorkins, his gaze becoming somewhat meaningful.
"And this location happens to be where I appeared. Mr. Jorkins, it seems we've both been unwittingly drawn into a... much larger scheme."
Upon hearing this...
Jorkins' heart, which had just settled, jumped again, his face turning pale. "A bigger picture? Sir, what... what do you mean? Could it be that the Black Robed Woman isn't with the Death Eater? He... he led me to you on purpose? What was his purpose? Was he trying to use me against you?" His mind raced.
Being a student of Ravenclaw House, one is naturally intelligent.
But now I'm feeling uneasy.
His mind was a jumbled mess, making it difficult for him to think.
"It's impossible to say for sure right now," Ian shook his head. "However, I suspect they're trying to drag me into something. Of course, you're safe for now."
Ian is not a prophet after all.
They cannot do what the prophets can do.
He patted Jorkins on the shoulder.
This gesture left Jorkins both flattered and terrified.
All I saw was...
Ian continued, "That Death Eater was terrified of me and won't dare to bother you again for a while. Moreover, he has my 'mark' in his soul, and his accomplices should also sense the anomaly. They might become wary, or perhaps they'll shift their revenge from you to me."
Ian didn't care.
Voldemort is nothing but a nobody.
It can be destroyed with a flick of the finger.
He even trained Voldemort during his most intelligent period.
"Thank you, sir!"
Jorkins was deeply grateful. He knew that if it weren't for this man before him, he would surely be dead today, or perhaps even tortured before his death. "No need to thank me. I just don't like seeing people causing trouble in the streets," Ian said, his tone returning to its usual casualness. After a moment's thought, he spoke again.
"However, Mr. Jorkins, I suggest you don't report the discovery of that Dark Magic artifact, or the fact that you're being hunted, to anyone for the time being, including your superior Barty Crouch."
He reminded him softly.
Jorkins was taken aback. "W-why? That thing is dangerous; it should be reported and dealt with as soon as possible..."
"Because you've become a target now, and things are more complicated than you think," Ian interrupted him. "The existence of that hint indicates that a third party is watching this. Reporting it rashly might alert them, or get you into a more complex power struggle and danger." "Although Director Crouch is known for fighting Dark Magic, the environment he's in..." Ian didn't finish, but the implication was clear: the Ministry of Magic itself might not be entirely clean.
He felt that Jorkins would be drawn into this crucial situation.
It's also related to that Dark Magic item.
"This..."
Jorkins hesitated.
Not reporting it meant he would have to keep the secret alone and bear unknown risks. But the suggestion from this adult before him clearly carried more weight and seemed to be for his benefit.
"Then... what should I do?" he asked helplessly.
Ian thought for a moment and said, "Continue your normal work and life, but be vigilant. Keep the information about that thing hidden away, don't leave it in the Ministry of Magic or in any obvious place in your home. Regarding today's encounter, and my existence..."
He paused for a moment.
He glanced at Jorkins. "You can choose to forget it, or keep it as a secret. I suggest the latter, because the Memory Charm might have unpredictable interference with that subtle suggestion in your brain."
"I understand! I promise I'll keep it a secret! I won't tell anyone!" Jorkins quickly assured him.
"Very good." Ian nodded. "If there are any new anomalies, or if you sense that 'hint' is moving in a different direction, or... if you encounter that man in the Black Robed Woman again..."
He handed Jorkins an ordinary-looking but warm-to-the-touch black Cobblestone. "Hold it, concentrate on thinking of me, and I can sense it. But don't use it unless absolutely necessary."
Ian was also worried about being disturbed unnecessarily, so he specifically reminded him of this.
Jorkins was overjoyed, taking the Cobblestone with both hands and clutching it tightly in his palms. "Yes! Thank you, sir!"
This thing is absolutely a lifesaver.
A reassuring reassurance.
Jorkins clutched the smooth, black Cobblestone tightly, as if grasping at his only lifeline and a faint connection to the world's deeper secrets. Besides the relief of surviving the ordeal and his awe of Ian, he felt an indescribable excitement—this ordinary, even somewhat cowardly, Ministry of Magic clerk had actually crossed paths with such an incredible being, and had been entrusted with such an important token and entrustment. Perhaps...
Do I also have some kind of predetermined mission?
Well, how should I put it?
Jorkins has watched quite a few episodes of the film.
And just as he was imagining things...
Looking at Ian's calm and composed face, he suddenly remembered something important. After hesitating for a moment, he finally mustered his courage and asked, "M-Sir... regarding that Dark Magic artifact, the one I discovered that led to my being hunted down... would you... would you like to examine it yourself?" "Or, shall I tell you where it's hidden? It looks... quite unusual." Jorkins felt that with this lord's knowledge and power, he might be able to see through the artifact at a glance, and even handle it better. Moreover, this would also be a sign of sincerity. Years of experience in the Ministry of Magic had taught him the importance of a team. Upon hearing this, Ian gently shook his head, a faint but elusive smile playing on his lips.
"No need, Mr. Jorkins." His voice was calm. "I have no interest in the item itself at the moment. Nor do you need to tell me its exact location."
Ian has his own ideas.
However, the other party probably couldn't understand. Jorkins was taken aback, somewhat puzzled. This lord didn't seem to care about the Dark Magic artifact that had caused this situation?
Ian noticed his confusion and explained, "Since that thing has already been targeted by the Death Eater, it means it's either very important or has far-reaching implications. If I intervene now to investigate directly, it's tantamount to prematurely revealing my interest in this event and disrupting the possible plans behind the 'hint' you're carrying."
He paused, his gaze drifting into the distance.
"Sometimes, letting the bait remain in its natural state, floating quietly in the water, allows you to clearly see which fish will be attracted, and... what the angler is ultimately trying to catch."
Ian's tone carried a detached calmness: "I won't look, I won't ask, I won't directly interfere. Let it develop according to its original trajectory, let those eyes hidden in the shadows continue to watch it—and you too. That way, I can better observe all the actors in this play." "And... what kind of play is that 'director' who gave you the hints trying to put on?" Ian was already a master of political maneuvering, so his reasoning was clear and logical.
Jorkins only vaguely understood what he was saying, but he generally realized that the man wanted to remain calm and observe how things would develop naturally in order to gather more information and perhaps even draw out the person behind the scenes.
This foresight and patience earned him even greater respect.
"I understand, sir. I will do as you say, remain normal, and leave no trace." Jorkins nodded solemnly, increasingly convinced that Ian was definitely not as young as he appeared.
"Um."
Ian responded, noticing Jorkins' still somewhat pale face and the fatigue in his eyes, his tone softening slightly, "Go back and get some rest, Mr. Jorkins. Today's events must have been quite a shock to you. Relax, don't put too much pressure on yourself. Remember, you just noticed something unusual and got caught up in it; it's not the end of the world."
He thought for a moment, then added, his tone almost casual and matter-of-fact, yet it sent a jolt through Jorkins' heart. "With me here, even if something really happens to you, as long as you don't instantly turn to ashes, I can probably find a way to bring you back. So, just relax and live your life."
Even the dead can be brought back to life?!
Jorkins was completely stunned, his mouth slightly agape and his eyes wide open.
The implications of these words are utterly shocking! Resurrection? Even in the magical world, this is a near-forbidden and legendary realm! Even the most powerful healers and the most skilled Potions Master are often powerless in the face of true death. This sir... could he utter such words with such nonchalance? Was it exaggerated consolation? Or... for him, was it truly just some possible "method"? The thought is chilling!
If anyone else had said this, Jorkins would have dismissed it as madness or boasting. But coming from the very person before him who had just easily crushed the Death Eater, performed miraculous magic, and seen through his soul's hints... he found himself, deep within his own heart, genuinely experiencing a strange yet unwavering "belief." This trust was without reason, yet as steadfast as a rock.
Perhaps it was the absolute strength and otherworldly demeanor displayed by the other party that made him feel that nothing was truly impossible in front of this person.
"I... I believe you! Thank you, sir! Thank you!" Jorkins ' voice choked with emotion, a mixture of gratitude and the release of pressure. With those words, the last vestige of fear of the unknown danger dissipated. Yes, with someone secretly watching over this matter, what did he have to fear?
Just do your job well and be the "bait"!
Jorkins is very self-aware.
"Go."
Ian waved his hand again.
Have a good day.
Jorkins bowed again before turning around and walking quickly towards the other end of the alley. Although his steps were still a little unsteady, he felt more at ease than before, when he was filled with anxiety.
He knew that he had not only escaped with his life today, but had also encountered an incredible being, and perhaps... had glimpsed some of the deeper secrets of this world.
In the alley, only Ian remained.
He stood silently, his gaze fixed on the alleyway where Jorkins had disappeared, motionless for a long time. The calm on his face was gradually replaced by a thoughtful expression. " The Black Robed Woman... Prophecy hint... precise guidance..."
He muttered to himself, his fingers unconsciously tapping lightly on the cold brick wall beside him, "Did they know I was here? Or did they merely foresee that something 'unexpected' would happen here?"
These are all possibilities.
If it's the former, it means the other party not only possesses strong Prophecy or insightful abilities,
They might also know something about Ian Prince's identity, background, or certain traits. This is troublesome, meaning he's not entirely in the shadows. If it's the latter, it's relatively better. The other party might have somehow foreseen that a "strong disruptive source" capable of altering the trajectory of Jorkins 'Destiny would appear at a certain time and place, and thus laid a preemptive clue to guide Jorkins there. This is more like an "investment" or "insurance" based on probability and causality.
Rather than a scheme targeting Ian personally.
However, in any case, an entity capable of exerting such subtle, long-lasting, and highly targeted mental suggestions, and capable of some degree of foresight, should not be underestimated.
Its purpose could not possibly be as simple as just saving Jorkins' life. Jorkins, or that Dark Magic artifact, is likely just a link in a larger scheme.
Which one would it be?
Think carefully.
Actually, the latter is more likely.
No Wizard can control the Destiny of Legend, not even a god. So, between the two options—that the other party knew he was coming all along, and that he only foresaw it after he arrived— Ian believed the latter.