Chapter 322 "Staying and Leaving"

As Grindelwald's words lingered in the air, a heavy silence enveloped the room.

Eventually, Grindelwald softened his tone, addressing Wentworth, who remained deep in thought with his head bowed, "Wentworth, consider this carefully. How long has it been since you last engaged in a true duel? I'm not referring to trivial sparring matches. If you lack the courage to face opponents head-on, you're unfit to lead the Alliance."

"I had high hopes when I heard someone from my lineage is making his move again in the wizarding world, but all this time, you are only playing in a small pond." With a weary sigh, Grindelwald concluded his admonition and made his exit.

"For this holiday, focus on one task: discover the meaning of courage. Understand what it signifies for our Grindelwald lineage. Only when you provide an answer that satisfies me will you earn your freedom." With that, Grindelwald departed, leaving Wentworth alone in the room, his head bowed in silent contemplation.

After a lingering moment, with the sound of Grindelwald's footsteps fading into the distance, Dumbledore approached Wentworth. He lowered himself and settled beside him, offering his counsel, "Wentworth, as per my agreement with Gellert, I'll be departing soon. But before I leave, you have a crucial decision to make."

"You have the option to leave Nurmengard with me and return to Hogwarts. From there, you can resume your journey back to London aboard the Hogwarts Express in a few days. Rest assured, no one will fault you for your decision. Everyone has the right to choose, and you will still be my student."

"Alternatively, you may choose to stay. But once you make that decision, there's no turning back. I cannot predict what Gellert will do, but I can say with certainty that he won't show you mercy, even if you call him grandfather. Your life may truly be at risk."

Stunned for a moment after hearing what Dumbledore had to say, Wentworth fell into deep contemplation. He tried to weigh which option would benefit him more: going back to Hogwarts with his Professor or staying and learning under the heavy burden of his grandfather.

Pausing for emphasis, Dumbledore rose to his feet and posed the crucial question, "Have you considered your options? Now, tell me your decision."

Upon hearing Dumbledore's inquiry, Wentworth steadied himself, met Dumbledore's gaze, and declared resolutely, "Professor, I've made my choice. I choose to stay."

Acknowledging Wentworth's determination with a nod, Dumbledore's expression remained impassive as he imparted his final advice, "Remember, you may learn from his magic, but not all of his ideologies are necessary. You share the same name, but in the end you are your own person, Wentworth Grindelwald."

"Wait a second, Professor!" Wentworth called.

After Wentworth's request, Dumbledore turned back with a faint smile. "I suppose you're not having second thoughts too soon?"

Wentworth shook his head with a wry smile. "Professor, could you do me a favor and deliver a few letters for me?"

Days later, the recent incidents at the Greengrass family estate turned it into a hub for the Alliance in the UK. Auston was seen busily directing the house-elves.

"Get this new magic armchair into the young master's study. He enjoys reading there the most. He can read while receiving a massage!"

"And fetch that blanket too, to drape over the magic armchair!"

Meanwhile, Lockhart and Lucius Malfoy stood in the manor. Lockhart inquired, "Lucius, aren't you fetching your son today? I can stay on behalf of our bank and await the young master's return."

Lucius nonchalantly curled his lips and replied, "No need. Narcissa can handle it herself. And openly addressing the young master like that, aren't you worried about facing the consequences?"

Following Lucius' gesture, Lockhart observed Rosier and Abernathy emerging from the manor. Abernathy was busy rallying the surrounding witches and wizards, calling out, "Everyone, make haste! Ensure the young master is under our protection after the Hogwarts Express arrives!"

Suddenly, an owl swooped down and entered the Greengrass family manor.

Curious, Rosier retrieved a letter from the owl and hastily read its contents. His expression shifted from curiosity to shock as he let out a surprised scream, promptly covering his mouth.

Concerned, Abernathy rushed to Rosier's side, inquiring, "What's wrong?"

However, Rosier was too absorbed in the letter's contents to respond immediately. After a moment, tears welled up in his eyes, startling Abernathy.

Alarmed, Abernathy pressed, "What's going on? Is something wrong with Wentworth?"

Rosier shook his head slowly, passing the letter to Abernathy. As Abernathy read it, his expression morphed into astonishment. "The young master..."

Before Abernathy could finish speaking, Rosier signaled for him to keep quiet.

Abernathy nodded in understanding, and they both scrutinized the letter repeatedly. After confirming it was indeed from Wentworth, Abernathy abruptly gestured and declared, "We're hosting a banquet at the manor today!"

Turning to Lockhart and Lucius with an uncharacteristic smile, Rosier invited, "You two should join us."

As Rosier departed, Lockhart and Lucius exchanged incredulous glances. Lockhart muttered, "Are they really... inviting us?"

"At moment like this, you should not question anything, Lockhart. Simply flow with it and accept yourself as one of them," Lucius proudly replies with a satisfied smile.

Meanwhile, at the London railway station, Cedric and Green embraced tightly.

Cedric's expression was somber as he began to speak, but Green interrupted him with a gesture.

"Don't say anything, save your tears for later," Green insisted with a smile. "Judging from your face, you might start crying if you do! Be happy for me—I've finally graduated from Hogwarts!"

 

Cedric nodded quietly.

Sensing Cedric's feelings, Green placed his hands on Cedric's shoulders and confessed, "Truth be told, Cedric, I envy you. Not because you're more talented, but because you still have school ahead of you!"

Cedric was on the verge of speaking when Cassandra approached, clutching a letter.

Handing it to Green, she instructed, "A week from now, take this letter and report directly to the British Ministry of Magic. My father will take care of you."

Gratefully accepting the letter, Green expressed his thanks, "Thank you for your help, Cassandra! I will make sure to bring some gifts for Mr. Vole."

Cassandra shook her head. "No need for thanks. I'm just following Wentworth's orders."

With a pause, Cassandra added, "When you leave Hogwarts for the Ministry of Magic, remember the most crucial thing is to prioritize your safety!"

Green nodded solemnly, understanding the gravity of Cassandra's advice, "If I won't prioritize my safety, then how can I look forward to the future when our young master will stand on top of the wizarding world? For the greater good!"

He tucked the letter securely into his pocket, feeling a mix of anticipation and apprehension for what lay ahead.

Offering his hand, Cedric finally took a moment to speak his heart, "Senior, it was a pleasure to spend time with you in Hogwarts!"

"Oh, come here you!" Green instead of taking Cedric's hand, hugged him tight.