The Overture to Destruction 3

Just as Voldemort, on a deserted island in the North Atlantic, used the Deep Space Crystal and Mad Echo to forcibly break through to legendary rank, immersing himself in dark visions of conquering the world.

Central London.

Inside Oak and Moonlight, a long-established restaurant with considerable history, elegant decor, and prices that were not particularly extravagant, the atmosphere was entirely different—subtly tense.

The restaurant stood on a relatively quiet street corner. Warm yellow light shone through immaculately polished windows, casting a welcoming glow into the damp night.

The interior was dominated by dark oak, with oil paintings of the Scottish Highlands and ancient magical creatures hanging on the walls—the tables and chairs were generously spaced, and the tablecloths spotless white.

It was now the tail end of the dinner rush. There were not many guests left, most of them local regulars or diners who valued the atmosphere, conversing quietly as cutlery lightly chimed against porcelain plates.

And within such a harmonious setting.

At a table for two by the window sat two conspicuous elderly men.

"Ah!" Albus Dumbledore wore his deep purple robe embroidered with stars and moons. His silver-white hair and beard were impeccably groomed, yet the sapphire eyes behind his half-moon spectacles appeared deeper than usual, carrying a barely discernible scrutiny and helplessness. On the plate before him, a serving of roast lamb chops with Yorkshire pudding and mashed peas had only been touched a few times.

He held a glass of red wine, but only took the occasional small sip. More often, his gaze rested on the hazy night beyond the window, or... across from him. Opposite him, Gellert Grindelwald was dining with a manner wholly at odds with both his age and former identity—with almost devout concentration.

The first Dark Lord had changed into a relatively