Will's reaction was calm. "Of course. How could I not know about Professor Grindelwald's former followers?
"The Saints were vast, tightly organized, and active throughout the Wizarding World of Europe and America. Even the mysterious wizards of the East were involved. They far outnumbered the Death Eaters, and they had their own bases, uniforms, clearly defined ranks, and guiding ideals."
Dumbledore watched Will speak so calmly and confidently. Surprise flickered in his eyes. "And what do you think of them?"
Will shook his head. "They were a group of followers. In a group that large, you'd find all sorts. I haven't dealt with them, so I can't judge them precisely. But overall, their ability, competence, and loyalty must have been higher than the Death Eaters'."
"Hmm..." Dumbledore fell silent again and began rummaging through a drawer beside him.
Will didn't know why Dumbledore was asking him this. Did he suspect Will had taken over the Saints?
But back then... Will recalled a conversation he'd had with Grindelwald some time ago.
"Before that, Will, do you need the Saints?"
Grindelwald had asked the question with a smile.
"What?" Will had been caught off guard. Why bring that up all of a sudden?
"Exactly what I said," Grindelwald replied at ease. "I can no longer stand before them as their leader.
"Besides, I've left worldly affairs behind. In fact, if you and Al hadn't suddenly appeared these past two years, I'd expected to meet my end quietly here."
He had meant it. Before then, Grindelwald had been close to wanting nothing but death.
"Professor Grindelwald, I need to think about this." Will hadn't given him an answer.
If he took over the Saints now, Dumbledore would probably react badly. For Will, the drawbacks outweighed the benefits.
Grindelwald hadn't pressed him:
"Of course.