Dumbledore's Change

Dumbledore's office.

It was the time for the students' first evening class, so the Headmaster's office was very quiet. No one had come—not students, nor teachers.

Even the portraits on the walls were silent, dozing as usual.

Even so, Dumbledore was not at all surprised by Jon's sudden appearance.

"Coming here at this hour means you either have business or you have business. Go on, what's the matter this time?"

"I'd like to ask the Headmaster for a favor. I just went to speak with Miss Granger and tested this student's attitude. From her reaction, she doesn't seem too opposed to our existence, but she doesn't really believe what I said."

"So you still want me to play the persuader again? Like last time with Arthur?"

"Mr. Weasley was much easier to persuade than Miss Granger. Though he's older and more experienced, his admiration for you is extraordinary. Miss Granger, on the other hand, has some ideas of her own."

"But you still need my help with this, right?"

"That's true. So I'll leave it to you, Headmaster. I estimate she'll come tomorrow. A day should be enough for her to think it through, right?"

"I can help you persuade her, but first you have to tell me what conditions you promised her."

Dumbledore was clearly beyond complaining about Jon's behavior by now. Still, Miss Granger was indeed a good candidate. Bringing her in would certainly benefit the plan's implementation. More importantly, having someone like her by Harry's side to guide him would help Harry grow better.

Otherwise, who knew when the child might stray down the wrong path?

"I only promised to help her improve her strength and took some future benefits in return. She probably doesn't know about that, though, so when she comes to ask, I hope