Marvel: Trading with Worlds

Under Kain's heightened magic, no part of the castle could remain concealed.

"It's amazing," Kain murmured. "My magic feels far stronger than before. Even Apparition should now be possible."

He realized he could likely Apparate out of Hogwarts with ease, a feat that was previously impossible for him without external assistance. 

This newfound freedom marked a significant shift in his abilities.

"At least Phil is still here in Hogwarts," Kain thought. "Otherwise, I'd have to eat whatever the house elves prepare."

Just as Kain was about to summon Phil to prepare dinner, there was a knock at the door.

With a wave of his hand, the door swung open, revealing a visitor. To his surprise, it was Fleur Delacour, fresh from completing the second task.

"I didn't expect to see you again so soon," Kain remarked, raising an eyebrow. "What brings you here this time?"

Fleur stepped inside, closed the door behind her, and bowed politely. Despite her usual pride and elegance, she carried herself with restrained humility in Kain's presence.

"I hope Professor pent will consider giving the Delacour family a chance," Fleur began, her tone measured.

She continued, "The Delacour family's history, social connections, and expertise in managing affairs within the French magical community are far superior to those of the foreign wizards you've recruited. Allowing someone from my family to handle relations with the French Ministry of Magic would be a better choice."

Her words were carefully chosen, and it was evident she had prepared extensively. Compared to her previous attempts to persuade him, Fleur was far more compelling this time. 

She knew that the Delacour family's remaining assets were limited, but with sufficient resources and time, they could potentially recover and thrive again within a decade.

Kain considered her words carefully but eventually shook his head. "Honestly, Fleur, that's not enough to convince me."

Fleur hesitated, then took a deep breath to steady herself. "And what about me, Professor pent?" she said, her voice firm yet laced with vulnerability.

Gathering her courage, Fleur stood tall, allowing her elegant figure and waterfall-like silver hair to catch the light. She had noticed, during their last interaction, that Kain seemed to admire her appearance.

This was only natural—Fleur possessed a quarter Veela blood and had every reason to be confident in her beauty.

"I can help when Professor pent needs assistance..." Fleur offered, her tone soft yet persuasive.

Kain considered her words carefully. If he accepted, he would gain not only Galleons but also influence and prestige. 

With the Delacour family as allies, no one in the French magical world would dare challenge him lightly. The Delacour family's status as a local powerhouse would undoubtedly make certain dealings far more convenient.

After a moment's thought, Kain revised his original decision.

He retrieved a magical contract, altered it slightly, and handed it to Fleur. "Take this back and show it to your father. The Delacour family can preserve some of its wealth and gain one last chance. If your family can capitalize on this opportunity, you'll have five years to turn things around."

"My father will definitely agree, Professor pent," Fleur responded quickly. She understood her family's precarious position, and this agreement—though stringent—was the best option they could hope for.

She was also surprised by Kain's reach. The contract had already been pre-approved by the British Ministry of Magic's International Trade Association. 

Once her father presented it to the French Ministry of Magic's counterpart for approval, the magical contract would take full effect.

Kain gave her a stern look. "Make sure no one does anything reckless this time. Go back and explain everything to your father."

"I understand, Professor pent," Fleur replied, bowing slightly. Yet, instead of leaving, she hesitated, her cheeks flushing red. Lowering her gaze, she reached for the zipper of her robes.

The Triwizard Tournament continued, with the third and final task fast approaching. The year-long event had brought unparalleled excitement to the British wizarding world. 

However, the credit for its success did not go to Cornelius Fudge. Instead, it was claimed by the Department of International Magical Cooperation. 

Fudge, whose reputation had already suffered, now faced almost certain defeat in the next ministerial election. It was clear to most that he lacked the competence to remain in power.

During this time, Kain balanced his teaching duties in Defense Against the Dark Arts with his alchemy studies. 

He began experimenting with crafting enchanted clothing for himself. Though the task was challenging, it was well within his capabilities.

What fascinated Kain even more was Hogwarts itself. In his free time, he explored the castle, meticulously studying its enchantments and alchemical properties. 

He dreamed of applying some of these formulas to his seaside villa, making it more secure and self-sufficient for defense and repelling unwanted visitors.

In addition to his personal projects, Kain secretly helped Fleur further develop her Veela bloodline late at night. 

Under his guidance, her abilities as a Veela grew noticeably stronger, enhancing both her magical potential and her natural allure.

As preparations for the third task were finalized, Alastor Moody conducted numerous covert inspections, uncovering two Death Eaters hiding among the staff. 

The culprits were Goyle and C. Laboon, two of Malfoy's loyal lackeys.

Moody even caught them tampering with the Portkey for the third task. However, before he could act, Dumbledore intervened, stopping him.

"I need to know what they're planning," Dumbledore said firmly.

The Death Eaters' power had dwindled significantly, and most pure-blood families were under constant surveillance by Aurors. 

Other than targeting Harry Potter, Dumbledore couldn't imagine what motive the Death Eaters might have for infiltrating the tournament.

Moody relented, keeping a close eye on them. The Portkey—disguised as the champion's trophy—was meant to transport the victor to the podium. Yet, the Death Eaters had altered its destination.

Originally, when a champion found the trophy, they would be transported directly to the award presentation area. 

However, after being tampered with by the Death Eaters, the destination was altered to an entirely different location.

Fortunately, Dumbledore had placed a magical marker on the trophy as a precaution. Unbeknownst to even him, Kain had also left his own unique mark on it.

Kain knew he might be away for a while the following day. If Voldemort truly intended to be resurrected during the Triwizard Tournament, then Kain would put an end to him once and for all.

He had been eager to find a worthy opponent to test his mastery of magic. If Dumbledore were thirty years younger, Kain would have certainly challenged him to a duel. But for now, Voldemort would suffice.

…

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