"All right, let's set those trivial matters aside for now." Grindelwald sat down quietly beside him, his expression turning grave. "You woke much earlier than expected."
"Expected?" Jerry stared at him in surprise. An accident in the Chamber of Secrets had put him into a deep sleep, and even he had no idea when he was supposed to wake. "Expected by whom? How long was I supposed to be unconscious?"
"The Apostles." Grindelwald paused, his voice wary. "According to their estimate, you shouldn't have woken for another year or two."
"Why? How did they work that out?"
Grindelwald did not answer at once. His brows drew together, and he shook his head slightly.
A moment later, he rose, patted Jerry on the shoulder, and said gravely, "Jerry, remember this: what serves your interests is just, so you may use any means necessary to reach your goal. The victor rules, and the outcome can justify the means."
"There may be no Pure-Blood Party at Hogwarts, but the Apostles are still there. You also have plenty of 'good friends.' They are all people you can use. But remember one thing: if you must choose between being loved and being feared, being feared is far safer."
"Human nature is evil! People are often far less hesitant to offend or betray someone they love than someone they fear. Love rests on a fragile bond of favors and duty. Sadly, because of the evil in human nature, people will cut that bond without a second thought when they stand to gain. Fear is different. They will be afraid—terrified."
Grindelwald watched Jerry sink into thought and chose not to disturb him. He sat quietly beside him, his gaze full of affection, patiently waiting for Jerry to sort through his tangled thoughts.
"Whew." Jerry shook his head.