Marvel's Hogwarts Professor

Vientiane World, Tea Room No. 101

Bruce Banner offered a respectful nod to Gilderoy Lockhart. "Thank you, Professor Lockhart, for your guidance. I'll try to connect with the Hulk and explore the practice space here in Vientiane World. Hopefully, I can find a way to… reach an understanding with him."

Lockhart's face softened with approval as Bruce spoke, his gratitude evident. Beside him, Natasha Romanoff echoed the sentiment. "Professor Lockhart, thank you for the magic card. SHIELD is eager to continue our cooperation with you, especially with your assistance in facilitating our understanding of the mystical."

Both Bruce and Natasha held their new Level 4 magic cards with a mixture of fascination and appreciation. They expressed their thanks once more before turning to leave, making their way to join Coulson and the others. As they exited the room, Lockhart's thoughtful gaze followed them, a subtle, knowing smile playing on his lips.

The Avengers' primary members, the so-called "giants" of SHIELD, were gradually being introduced to his world. Thor, the God of Thunder, had yet to reappear, but Lockhart anticipated that when he did, their past association would ease interactions. Tony Stark, with his unpredictable but amicable personality, posed no major threat. And now, he had made a favorable impression on the Hulk, perhaps enough to gain his trust and cooperation in the future.

Lockhart's thoughts lingered on the members of the Avengers, the heroic protagonists of the Marvel world. They represented both power and destiny, individuals bound to shape the course of history. He knew that aligning with them, even indirectly, would fortify his own position in ways that few could challenge.

As he considered the intricate web of relationships he was building, Lockhart reached for his wand, a faint shimmer of magic radiating from it. With a single wave, a gentle light danced across the room, bringing life to the teacups on the table. Water poured from the air into the cups, and the used tea leaves rose from the pot, floating gracefully into a small disposal bin before fresh leaves replaced them. The room filled once again with the soothing aroma of tea.

Lockhart resumed his seat, his expression relaxed as he prepared tea with practiced ease. Yet he was not merely brewing a beverage; he was waiting.

Moments later, the door opened slowly, and a figure stepped inside. Lockhart looked up to see a familiar face—Master Heck, a Kamar-Taj sorcerer clad in a simple gray robe. His aura spoke of experience and a lifetime devoted to the mystical arts.

With a welcoming smile, Lockhart gestured toward the tea table. "Master Heck, welcome. Please, join me. I'd be honored if you'd sample my tea."

Heck returned the smile, nodding in acknowledgment before seating himself at the table. He picked up his teacup, inhaled the fragrant steam, and took a deliberate sip. Closing his eyes briefly, he savored the taste before offering his approval. "Exquisite tea, truly. A refreshing aroma with an aftertaste that lingers."

Lockhart inclined his head, pleased with the praise. After a few more exchanges of pleasantries, Lockhart decided to bring the conversation to the heart of the matter.

"Master Heck," he began, leaning forward slightly, "how goes the Alliance? Has it achieved the effects we anticipated?"

At Lockhart's earnest inquiry, Heck's face softened with understanding. "Rest easy, Lockhart. Everything has proceeded as planned, perhaps even more smoothly than we'd hoped."

He paused, a hint of admiration coloring his tone. "Your terms were indeed compelling. The improvements you've brought to the trading system, the variety of novel magic potions, and the Medal you recently obtained, combined with the Sorcerer Supreme's influence… these factors have swayed many."

Lockhart listened closely, watching the emotions play across Heck's face as he spoke. The formation of the Anti-Lockhart Alliance had once been a considerable obstacle, but the reality of competition and high stakes in the mystical world had tempered the resolve of many. The odds of success against Lockhart, with his numerous assets and rising influence, seemed insurmountable to most. Thus, many sorcerers had chosen to withdraw from the alliance, their pragmatism prevailing over idealism.

These skilled potion masters, alchemists, and unique magic practitioners would ultimately prove valuable allies if they shifted to Lockhart's side. Vientiane World could flourish with such talent, its ranks filled by experts rather than adversaries. Yet, even this development was but one layer of Lockhart's ambitions.

He leaned forward, his gaze sharpening slightly. "And what of Master David and his associates?" he asked, his tone careful.

Heck's expression turned thoughtful. "David and the others… they haven't made a clear declaration either way. They maintain a neutral stance, though I can sense some discontent. They seem dissatisfied but unwilling to voice it outright."

There was a pause before Heck, unable to contain his curiosity, asked, "Lockhart, are you certain that Master David has connections to… certain undesirable entities?"

Indeed, this was a significant factor that had motivated Heck to support Lockhart. Through the aid of an informant named Morin, he had glimpsed a search warrant bearing Lockhart's name, issued with the Sorcerer Supreme's approval. Heck understood the weight this carried. If Lockhart continued on his current trajectory, he was on the path to becoming one of Kamar-Taj's enforcers, a position of genuine power and influence.

Supporting Lockhart had thus been an investment in the future. If successful, the rewards would be substantial. And if Lockhart failed, Heck had little to lose.

Lockhart responded with a calm nod, his expression unwavering. "Yes, there's a strong likelihood that Master David has ties to those who have… betrayed our order."

Heck frowned slightly, his mind racing. "Then why not apprehend him and get the answers we need?"

Lockhart sighed, his voice taking on a reflective tone. "It's not that simple. Kamar-Taj's current state is far from stable. Evidence links certain sorcerers to Dormammu and other dimensional entities. But addressing these individuals one by one won't resolve the root issues."

He chose his words carefully, conscious of the alliances and rivalries woven into Kamar-Taj's structure. "For now, there's more to gain from biding our time and working through subtler means."

Heck considered this, a glimmer of understanding dawning in his eyes. This Lockhart is clever, he thought, recognizing the careful maneuvering of a strategist.

Deciding not to dwell further on the delicate matter, Heck shifted topics smoothly. "Lockhart, I'm here on behalf of several of my friends. They're intrigued by Vientiane World and have expressed interest in opening shops in your trading area. I'd suggest offering some incentives to secure their cooperation. They're well-regarded in Kamar-Taj and could lend considerable influence."

He leaned forward, a note of persuasion in his voice. "If they support you, it would not only elevate Vientiane World but also smooth your path toward becoming an enforcer. Their assistance could be invaluable."

Lockhart nodded thoughtfully, taking in Heck's suggestion. He recognized the potential benefits of aligning with these influential sorcerers. After a moment of consideration, he laid out a series of favorable terms that would incentivize these experts to join Vientiane World's marketplace, securing a mutually beneficial alliance.

With each new connection, he strengthened his hold on Vientiane World. This place was more than a magical realm to him; it was a foundation upon which he could build his influence. It represented wealth, power, and the resources needed to pursue even grander ambitions. For Lockhart, having a secure purse was as essential as wielding a powerful spell. And one day, with the right alliances and resources, he would wield true authority within the magical world.

To achieve his ultimate goal, however, he would need to play his cards with precision. Every alliance, every conversation, every negotiation was a carefully calculated step toward solidifying his place in Kamar-Taj—and beyond.

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

Support me at [email protected]/goldengaruda and check out more chapter of this FANFIC or more early access chapter of my other fanfic translation.

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