Chapter 260: Uncle Ma

his gathering was more than just an academic exchange; it was also about strengthening relationships, expanding networks. In a way, it was an upgraded version of Horace Slughorn's Slug Club within the Half-Blood Prince.

Professor Brodeur had his house-elf prepare a lavish dinner, giving Albert the opportunity to savor dishes from other countries. It was evident that more than one house-elf was bustling around the kitchen, bringing forth a plethora of dishes.

When it came to European cuisine, most people would think of France and Italy. In fact, the majority of the food on the table originated from these two countries.

At this small gathering, Albert remained incognito, quietly enjoying the delectable food while listening to everyone chat about amusing anecdotes from the wizarding world.

For instance, there were the darker aspects of the British Minister for Magic elections. Cornelius Fudge becoming Minister for Magic was not simply a coincidence.

Many people believed that Bartemius Crouch Sr. was poised to become the Minister, but to undermine him, many wizards used the fact that his son, Barty Crouch Jr., was a Death Eater to tarnish his reputation.

Later, it became known that Dumbledore declined the offer to become Minister for Magic, allowing Fudge, who had aligned himself with pure-blood wizards, to take the position.

However, smearing Bartemius Crouch Sr. was one of the strategies Fudge employed.

"Mr. Anderson, how do you view this matter?" Professor Brodeur turned to Albert, who was eating.

Albert put down his fork, wiped his mouth with a napkin, and calmly replied, "Bartemius Crouch is Bartemius Crouch. His son is his son. Whatever his son did, it cannot erase Bartemius Crouch's past contributions."

People exchanged glances, and Professor Brodeur was somewhat surprised by Albert's response, but he seemed satisfied.

"Of course, you can't expect everyone to maintain rational judgment. Most people are easily influenced by external factors," Albert suddenly said, "If Harry Potter, who defeated the Dark Lord, were to suddenly announce that the Dark Lord is still alive, what do you think would happen?"

What would happen?

Most would likely think their savior had gone mad.

"Don't bring up such matters with others," Professor Brodeur kindly advised, "People in the wizarding world cannot accept such a reality. They would do everything to deny it."

This advice was directed at Albert, reminding him not to trouble himself unnecessarily.

"Clearly," Albert shrugged and continued to taste the foods he had never tried before.

Adolf skillfully changed the topic, discussing recent negative news from Durmstrang Institute. The new headmaster, Igor Karkaroff, had further tarnished the school's reputation, causing many parents to withdraw their children from the school and enroll them in Beauxbatons Academy.

Nielson shared the latest news he had gathered. Some students had replicated the symbol of Grindelwald on their textbooks and clothing, trying to use it to intimidate others. However, those who had lost loved ones due to Grindelwald's actions taught them a lesson.

"I've read about this school in books. Durmstrang Institute is said to promote Dark Magic and does not admit Muggle-born witches and wizards," Albert curiously asked, "By the way, what is the symbol of Grindelwald?" He feigned ignorance.

"Actually, that's not the symbol of Grindelwald. Only the ignorant would mistake it for that," Nielson drew the symbol of the Deathly Hallows with his wand, which resembled an eye with a vertical line through the center of its pupil.

He shook his head helplessly, "This symbol comes from the legend of the Three Brothers. Mr. Anderson, have you heard of the tale of the Three Brothers?"

"Are you referring to the Tale of the Three Brothers from 'The Bard's Bean Story Collection'?" Albert nodded, indicating he was familiar with it.

"Yes, the triangle represents the Invisibility Cloak, the circle signifies the Resurrection Stone, and the vertical line represents the Elder Wand," Adolf explained, "The Tale of the Three Brothers is quite famous within our circles. Many believe that the items in the legend are related to alchemy."

"Why would Grindelwald use it as his symbol?" Albert continued to inquire.

"We believe that Grindelwald found the items from the legend," Professor Brodeur explained, "Of course, this cannot be confirmed. The wizarding world is filled with legends, and while some may deviate from the original facts, they often have some basis."

"Like the Philosopher's Stone, which is said to produce the Elixir of Life?" Albert smiled, not denying anything, as he knew more than others. Grindelwald had indeed possessed the Elder Wand.

As they discussed the recently released list of prohibited trade by the British Ministry of Magic, Claude recommended his kind and helpful friend, Mr. Delacour, who worked in magical horticulture. Occasionally, he acted as a supplier and was willing to provide introductions if needed.

Magical horticulture was a fascinating field, yielding many rare magical plants that were limited in supply.

Of course, the most noteworthy aspect of Mr. Delacour was his Veela heritage. His daughter was studying at Beauxbatons Academy and was equally outstanding.

Adolf even joked that Albert had excellent French and could try exchanging letters with a French pen pal.

As the dinner approached its end, the topic shifted to Albert, and they were surprised to learn he was known as "Uncle Ma."

"What does 'Uncle Ma' mean?" Albert asked, tilting his head.

"'Uncle Ma' is an old term for wizards of Muggle descent, a friendly way of addressing them," Mr. Smith explained to Albert, ignoring the bewildered expressions on everyone's faces, "It was quite popular before the enactment of the International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy in 1692."

"Many people might have forgotten that before the enactment of the International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy, most wizards believed that Muggle-borns had more talent than wizards from pure-blood families," Professor Brodeur kindly reminded them, "Later on, wizards stopped trusting Muggle-borns, and the rise of pure-blood supremacy gradually led to the abandonment of this term."

"Of course, blood discrimination doesn't exist in our circle. People value wisdom and abilities more," Adolf whispered softly. He didn't deny Professor Brodeur's words, but that was the reality of the wizarding world.

However, everyone present could tell that Albert wouldn't be ostracized due to his heritage. He had formed connections with many renowned wizards, and a significant portion of them would be willing to vouch for him.

It couldn't be said that the majority of wizards prioritized bloodlines, but in the face of true genius, such things didn't matter as much.

After all, knowledge and abilities were more deserving of respect.

The fact that Albert had been invited to this gathering already spoke volumes about his status.

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