8

Chapter 8: Is the Acolyte a Dark Wizard?

After purchasing the cauldron, textbooks, owls, and other items, Argus sent Draco through the fireplace and returned to Malfoy Manor using the Floo Network.

He then made his way to the entrance of Diagon Alley, where he saw Vita Rozier waiting for him.

"Have you bought everything?" she asked.

Argus raised his hand, indicating the suitcase that had been expanded using the Undetectable Extension Charm.

"Yes, I've completed the shopping and sent Draco back."

"Who sent those Aurors?"

"Rufus Scrimgeour, the Head of the Auror Office at the British Ministry of Magic," Vita replied.

Augustus expression hardened as he recalled what he knew about Scrimgeour. A staunch opponent of dark wizards, Scrimgeour was known for his relentless pursuit of them. In the original timeline, he became Minister of Magic after Cornelius Fudge's resignation and was eventually captured and tortured by Voldemort, who succeeded in extracting crucial information from him.

"It seems our presence has attracted his attention," Augustus said thoughtfully. "Being targeted by him could complicate our plans."

"Should we send someone to eliminate him?" Vita suggested cautiously.

"No," Augustus said, shaking his head. "If we kill a high-ranking official of the Ministry right after our arrival, it will certainly cause a major panic."

"Then what should we do? If he continues to keep tabs on us, it could seriously hinder our plans," Vita said, clearly concerned.

Augustus considered this for a moment before speaking. "We might not need to take any action ourselves. The Ministry only received news of our arrival today. Scrimgeour's response seems to be a personal initiative."

"So, you think Scrimgeour is acting on his own?" Vita asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Exactly. Let's feed some misinformation to Cornelius Fudge suggesting that Scrimgeour was already aware of our presence. This way, others will be prompted to act against him," Augustus suggested with a smirk. "It's always entertaining to watch factions within the Ministry clash."

"I had asked you to investigate the shops in Diagon Alley. What did you find out?" he asked.

Vita shook her head. "The situation isn't ideal. The shops in Diagon Alley are highly sought after, and few people are willing to take action."

"Most of these stores are controlled by pure-blood families, especially those dealing with high-demand items like potions and broomsticks. They've already been divided up among them. Even if we manage to acquire a store, the location would likely be suboptimal."

Augustus smiled. "Did you really think I was planning to buy a store?"

"Not buying it? Then why investigate these shops?" Vita asked, puzzled.

"The goal is to understand the market dynamics in Diagon Alley. How could a few stores supply all the resources needed for the Alliance's future?"

"My true aim is... to replace Diagon Alley."

"Replace Diagon Alley?" Vita echoed, stunned.

Her original plan was to trade with pure-blood families, possibly even pushing out a few. Replacing an entire shopping district was a far more ambitious—and disruptive—goal.

"Augustus, calm down. I understand your desire for the Alliance's growth, but we've just arrived in the UK and haven't secured a strong foothold yet. Initiating a conflict with pure-blood families might be premature."

"I'm calm, Aunt Vita," Argus said, patting her hand reassuringly. "Replacing Diagon Alley is a long-term strategy. Financial constraints aside, the resources controlled by pure-blood families are considerable."

"But we should move cautiously and keep our long-term goals in mind. In the grand scheme, replacing Diagon Alley is just a preliminary step. To truly control the magical world, we'll need far more than what ten Diagon Alleys could offer."

"In the future, our influence will span the entire globe!"

…

Late August arrived quickly.

During this time, Augustus continued his intensive studies, expanding his magical talent.

He had finished reading the fourth-year Hogwarts textbooks and was now delving into "Standard Charms" for the fifth year.

In the manor, Augustus sat quietly, absorbed in his book, while Draco, unable to remain still, fidgeted restlessly.

Lucius Malfoy, entering the room, observed this scene with a sigh. He had witnessed this transformation numerous times and marveled at how quickly the once-ordinary boy had become a prominent figure among pure-blood families.

Draco's social standing had risen through a series of gatherings, where he had become an admired figure. His newfound status allowed him to open connections with various families, which, in turn, bolstered Augustus's position.

Lucius thought to himself that Augustus's influence was evident, even if Draco was completely unaware of the intricacies involved.

"If possible, I would prefer Draco to have less contact with him," Lucius mused. "With Draco's nature, he would likely be too compliant, even if manipulated."

"Draco, your father is here," Augustus said, closing his book and drawing Draco's attention.

Draco's face lit up as he hurriedly set aside his book, eager to leave.

"Ahem!" Augustus's voice interrupted him.

"Yagus, I've been observing you all afternoon," Lucius said, his tone hinting at frustration.

"I understand. Just remember to complete the assignments I gave you. I'll review them when school starts," Augustus replied calmly.

Draco nodded, clearly excited, and quickly left to join his father.