Ch. 121Joining the Acolytes and the Start of the War
Key Plot Points and Events
- Cedric is taken by Ilona, an Acolyte, who reveals that the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor is also an Acolyte.
- Cedric is given a choice: join the Acolytes to save his father and many lives, or be killed. He chooses to join but vows not to follow Ilona in committing evil.
- Ilona reveals that the Acolytes are not evil, but different from Death Eaters, and that their methods are for the Greater Good.
- The war begins as Abernathy and Rufus Scrimgeour prepare their respective forces. The Aurors are forbidden from using Unforgivable Curses first, but authorized to retaliate if the Acolytes do.
Character Developments
- Cedric shows bravery and determination, choosing to join the Acolytes to save lives, but maintains his moral stance.
- Ilona reveals more about the Acolytes' origins and their connection to Grindelwald.
- Abernathy demonstrates leadership and strategic thinking, forbidding the use of Unforgivable Curses to maintain moral high ground.
- Carrow shows eagerness for battle but also a hint of sentimentality towards the aging Acolytes.
Significant Themes
- The Greater Good: Both Ilona and Abernathy justify their actions as being for the Greater Good, raising questions about the morality of their methods.
- Morality and Choice: Cedric's choice to join the Acolytes while maintaining his moral stance highlights the complex nature of choices in a conflicted world.
- Leadership and Strategy: Abernathy's strategic thinking and Carrow's eagerness for battle contrast and show different aspects of leadership.
Character Interactions
- Ilona and Cedric: Ilona manipulates Cedric into joining the Acolytes, while Cedric maintains his moral stance and questions Ilona's actions.
- Abernathy and Carrow: Abernathy shows leadership by forbidding the use of Unforgivable Curses, while Carrow shows eagerness for battle but also a hint of sentimentality towards the aging Acolytes.
- Rufus Scrimgeour and the Aurors: Rufus Scrimgeour prepares the Aurors for battle, showing a no-nonsense approach to maintaining morale and discipline.