Chapter 4: Chapter 4 The Correct Use of Tom
If that were to happen, it would be difficult to follow in the footsteps of Voldemort or Grindelwald.
Robert had already formed an idea in his mind. He quickly accessed the system interface within his consciousness.
The system interface was simple, displaying only two sections: available products and his merit point balance.
[Product 1: Baixian 50ml (Unlocked) – 5 Merit Points]
[Product 2: "A Complete Guide to Low-Level Magic" (Unlocked) – 50 Merit Points]
[Refresh Time Countdown: 8 hours, 27 minutes, and 39 seconds]
[Merit Points: 50]
[Dark Lord Achievement: Not Achieved]
Robert's eyes landed on the second item, and without hesitation, he clicked to purchase it.
"A Complete Guide to Low-Level Magic" is a system-exclusive spellbook that covers nearly all known low-level spells, providing detailed explanations of their casting techniques and historical evolution.
Without even finishing the system's description, Robert confirmed the purchase.
Despite only covering low-level spells, the book was invaluable to a novice magician like him. Additionally, given the level of detail it promised, it was unlikely to be found in any ordinary bookstore.
"Ding! Do you want to purchase 'A Complete Guide to Low-Level Magic'?"
"Yes!"
"Ding! Please select the language for this book."
A choice of language?
Robert was intrigued. He wondered aloud, "Is there an English version?"
It was a casual remark—Modern English translations weren't widely available in the 1930s.
"Ding! The English version of 'A Complete Guide to Low-Level Magic' has been delivered. Please check it."
Robert suddenly felt warmth in his palm. A book with a black cover materialized in his hands.
He picked it up, but something felt off—the thickness wasn't right.
If the book truly contained the level of detail described, it should be much thicker.
Robert examined the black cover, noticing the large gold-plated English title: "Oliver Twist."
Huh? Where was the spellbook? Why was it a Dickens novel?
Frowning, Robert fixated on the title. To his surprise, the words "Oliver Twist" slowly transformed into English: "A Complete Guide to Low-Level Magic."
Even more astonishing, when he looked away, the title reverted back to "Oliver Twist."
"Ding! This is a system-exclusive book. Only the host and those granted permission can see its true content."
Robert smirked in satisfaction. The book had a built-in disguise, ensuring that no one else could recognize it as an advanced spellbook.
This also explained why it wasn't thick—its content was hidden until he focused on it.
Opening the book, Robert saw the novel's English text morph into detailed spell explanations before his eyes, all in fluent English.
Had the book been in Old English, it would have been difficult to understand, even with his decent proficiency. But the system's translation was flawless—smooth, elegant, and accurate.
---
"Knock, knock!"
A voice called from outside. "Sir, it's time for dinner."
Robert, engrossed in his study, looked up to find the sky outside had darkened.
Time had flown.
He opened the door to see Tom standing there with an obedient expression.
Gone was the arrogance from earlier that day. Now, Tom looked humble and composed, as if he had nothing to do with his past behavior.
Robert had to admit—Tom had a special talent for switching personas when necessary.
"Tom, don't call me 'sir.' It sounds strange. Just call me Robert."
Robert smiled as he spoke.
Tom gave a faint smirk and nodded. "Alright. In public, I'll call you Robert. But when we're alone, I'll still call you 'sir.'"
A natural-born manipulator. Tom had a way with words, always knowing how to present himself.
No wonder, after enrolling at Hogwarts, he was beloved by nearly everyone—except Dumbledore, who had seen through him.
"Suit yourself."
Robert didn't argue. Instead, he turned and walked toward the dining hall, with Tom following closely behind.
Along the way, Tom played the perfect servant—respectful, quiet, and dutiful.
But Robert knew better.
Beneath that obedient exterior was a venomous snake, waiting for the right moment to strike.
A dangerous child.
And if that were the case…
Robert suddenly smirked and turned to face Tom.
"Smack!"
Without warning, Robert flicked Tom's forehead.
Tom's hand shot up to his head, eyes widening in shock. A flicker of anger flashed across his face before he quickly suppressed it.
"Sir… why did you hit me?"
"Ding! Insulting damage dealt to the vicious imp. +10 Merit Points!"
Robert's grin widened. Perfect. Not only had he successfully tested Tom's patience, but he had also earned more merit points—just enough to purchase Baixian.
"Sorry," Robert said with a straight face. "There was a fly on your head."
Tom instinctively ran his fingers through his hair. "Then… where did the fly go?"
"It flew away," Robert answered nonchalantly.
"…?"
Tom's eyes twitched. Even an idiot would realize Robert had done it on purpose.
"Let's go. Mrs. Cole doesn't wait for anyone at dinner."
Robert turned and walked ahead.
Tom remained rooted in place, his face contorted in frustration.
Did he figure out what I was planning?
No—that was impossible!
There was no way Robert could have read his mind.
But then… why did he suddenly hit me?
Was it a test? Was he trying to see if I would react?
Tom quickly replayed the scene in his mind. Had he accidentally shown his true emotions?
No mirror was around to confirm his expression.
His paranoia deepened.
Tom followed behind Robert, walking with caution.
At this moment, one thought consumed his mind:
If I were him, I would have already killed me.
FOR MORE CHAPTERS
patreon.com/STEPHENH