When the name "Dumbledore" slipped casually from Douglas's lips, the last floodgate of hope in Valerius's heart was swept away completely.
It was not Dumbledore he feared. That legendary white wizard was far too remote from him.
What he feared was that the man before him could so casually invoke that legend as his backing.
This meant that even if he really were dismantled for parts today, his family would never dare, nor would they ever knock on Hogwarts' doors for a traitor.
Moreover, his family could never provoke Dumbledore for an exiled traitor, much less dare to face this notorious vampire hunter-Skynet.
He had lost completely.
It was an utter defeat, draining even his last ounce of strength to struggle.
Valerius's proud head, which had never bowed to anyone, slowly, slowly drooped.
"I..."
His voice was as faint as a mosquito's buzz.
"I choose... to sign the Contract."
He extended his hand. That hand, which had once elegantly held stemmed wineglasses and mercilessly snapped his enemies' necks, now trembled like a leaf in the wind.
He took the Dragon Nerve Pen.
He bit through his fingertip, and black blood welled out, carrying a metallic, sweet scent.
He saturated the nib with his blood and signed his name on the parchment with its writhing runes.
"Valerius."
As the final stroke fell, the entire sheet of parchment instantly burst into flame, becoming a dazzling streak of red light.
The red light carried no heat, but it bore an irresistible will as it plunged into his chest.
Valerius gave a muffled grunt and staggered back a step.
He felt an invisible hand seize his soul, then forcibly fit it with cold shackles woven from concepts.
He could clearly perceive the terms of the Contract.
Absolute obedience.
No betrayal.
He must not, in