Meeting with the Order of the Phoenix

The sky over Knockturn Alley seemed to be forever shrouded in dark clouds, fitting perfectly with the shady black-market business that could not bear the light of day.

Most of the place was now under Tom's control. No wizard dared cause trouble on his turf unless he truly wanted to meet Merlin.

"You don't need to look so serious. They don't have the guts to lay a hand on you." Seeing Muya afraid to look around, Tom swept the surrounding wizards with a cold glance. They immediately lowered their heads, concealing their curiosity and any improper thoughts they might have harbored.

"Okay," Muya replied.

Yet the cold, damp gazes lurking in the shadows still clung to her like icy venomous snakes in a black swamp, making her skin crawl.

Tom cast a glance over. A wizard dressed entirely in black suddenly began struggling in agony. "Mr... Mr. Riddle, I wasn't..."

Before he could finish, Tom sent him to explain himself to Merlin.

The wizarding world was becoming increasingly unstable. The turnover of the two Ministers for Magic had been far too rapid, leaving wizards doubtful and dissatisfied with the Ministry of Magic's work. Some had even taken the lead in making trouble at the Ministry itself.

It was a case of troubles within and without, allowing some dark wizards to act with even greater brazenness.

"That wasn't one of Voldemort's people, was it?" Muya took one look, then frowned and looked away.

Tom turned away as well, paying no heed to the grisly scene on the ground. He waved a hand, and two faceless wizards suddenly appeared nearby. With a flick of their wands, they cleaned up the scene.

"No." He cast a warming charm, raising someone's body temperature. "Just a rat from the gutter. According to intelligence from our