Chapter 149: Let the Wizarding World Become Great Again

Lockhart faced three questions from the Slytherin portrait, and his mind raced with thoughts. Judging by the questions, the portrait couldn't detect what was happening in Hogwarts. This, along with the previous answers, indicated that Salazar didn't have much malice. Otherwise, Voldemort would have been dealt with when he entered the chamber. Despite this, Lockhart remained cautious.

After a moment of contemplation, Lockhart decided to alter his attitude towards the Slytherin portrait.

"Mr. Salazar, the current Headmaster of Hogwarts is Albus Dumbledore. Have you ever heard of him?" As he spoke, Lockhart waved his wand and outlined the image of a white-haired, kind-faced Dumbledore. "He defeated two generations of Dark Lords and enjoys a very high reputation in the wizarding world, bringing Hogwarts to a new peak."

Salazar's portrait murmured, seemingly impressed, "Two generations of Dark Lords. This Dumbledore seems impressive."

"What about the new magic system?" Slytherin continued.

Lockhart felt a bit disappointed that the portrait hadn't asked about the Dark Lord but proceeded to answer. "Regarding the new magic system, I must apologize for some inaccuracies in our last discussion. As you said before, we must remain vigilant when dealing with magical items with thoughts. So, some of the information I provided was false."

"It's okay, Lockhart. Continue," Slytherin responded, satisfied with Lockhart's honesty.

"Alright, Mr. Salazar," Lockhart replied with a faint smile. "The new magic system aims to lower the threshold for learning magic, allowing Squibs to become wizards and removing the reliance on blood purity. Its goal is to make the wizarding world great again!"

Lockhart's voice rose with desire and ambition, his words embodying the spirit of a true Slytherin student. The Slytherin portrait watched silently, intrigued by Lockhart's passion.

Lockhart continued, "I, Gilderoy Lockhart, am a best-selling author, recipient of the Order of Merlin, a member of the Alliance Against the Dark Arts, and the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor at Hogwarts. But the title I am most proud of is the founder of the new magic system."

Salazar's portrait showed clear surprise, becoming increasingly curious about Lockhart.

"The new magic system I created has the full support of Headmaster Dumbledore. It has been introduced at Hogwarts and has even drawn the interest of external Squibs. The entire wizarding world is aware of our new system, and Hogwarts will become its holy place."

Lockhart paused, giving Slytherin time to absorb the information. The portrait was clearly intrigued and asked, "Can you provide more details about this new magic system?"

"Of course, Mr. Slytherin," Lockhart nodded. "The new system is an innovation of the wizarding world's traditional magic, formed through the combination of meditation and runes."

"Runes and meditation?" Slytherin murmured, unfamiliar with the concepts.

Lockhart waved his wand, producing a light yellow ball of light at its tip. The ball floated towards the Slytherin portrait. "Mr. Salazar, this contains information about meditation and runes. Please take a look."

The light ball entered the portrait, and Salazar closed his eyes to review the information. After a long moment, he reopened his eyes, filled with awe. "The new magic system is indeed extraordinary! It can make the wizarding world powerful again."

Excitement tinged Salazar's tone, thinking about the potential impact on the wizarding world. As one of Hogwarts' founders, he had helped innovate the wizarding system. Now, another innovation was unfolding before him.

Lockhart saw the interest in Salazar's eyes and continued, "Mr. Salazar, another major event has recently shaken the wizarding world: the rise of the second-generation Dark Lord, Voldemort."

Lockhart explained the devastation Voldemort caused, the massacres, the near invasion of Hogwarts, and how even Dumbledore struggled against him. "Last year, traces of Voldemort reappeared. I fear his return is imminent. When that happens, even Dumbledore might not suffice."

Salazar, sensing something familiar, asked, "Lockhart, what is Voldemort's real name?"

Lockhart replied, "His name is Tom Riddle."

The Slytherin portrait's expression changed, a hint of realization dawning. Lockhart noted the shift, knowing he had struck a chord. Salazar still cared deeply for Hogwarts, and the mention of Tom Riddle brought that to the forefront.

Salazar's voice broke the silence, "Lockhart, please tell me more about the second-generation Dark Lord, Voldemort."

Lockhart took a deep breath, ready to reveal more about the man who nearly destroyed the legacy of Hogwarts.

=========================

[Up to 50+ Chapter available and 10 chapter Weakly Update at p@treon.com/goldengaruda]

=========================