50 Days Earlier – Marvel World, Kamar-Taj
"Lockhart, have you ever considered the position of Sorcerer Supreme?"
The Ancient One's tone was light, almost teasing, but her gaze remained sharp as she sat at the head of the hall.
Lockhart froze, his expression one of feigned surprise. Internally, his mind raced.
Why bring this up now? he thought. A test? A warning? Or something else entirely?
He replayed his interactions with the Ancient One since arriving at Kamar-Taj. She had been nothing but supportive, helping him forge contracts, teaching him magic, protecting him from Dormammu, and even entrusting him with the Eye of Agamotto.
These gestures had left Lockhart both grateful and wary. What does she see in me? Why invest so much?
"Lockhart?" the Ancient One prompted, her calm voice breaking his thoughts.
Lockhart composed himself quickly. "Sorcerer Supreme, I... hadn't given it much thought. My focus has been on integrating what I've learned here into my studies."
The Ancient One smiled faintly, gesturing for him to continue.
Seizing the moment, Lockhart decided to probe her intentions. "If I may, Sorcerer Supreme, I have a request."
Her interest piqued, the Ancient One leaned forward slightly. "Go on."
Lockhart took a breath, carefully crafting his words. "Before joining Kamar-Taj, I practiced a unique magical system of my own design. I also taught students who shared my methods."
"I've since begun blending Kamar-Taj's teachings with my own, creating a new approach to magic—one that doesn't rely on contracts with the Vishanti or other dimensional entities."
The Ancient One's expression shifted subtly, her gaze sharpening. Lockhart noted her reaction and pressed on.
"My students have been experimenting with these methods, and I believe there's potential for something groundbreaking. With your permission, I'd like to establish a school under the banner of Kamar-Taj, dedicated to advancing this new magic. Its purpose would align with Kamar-Taj's mission—resisting the influence of dark forces and empowering humanity."
The hall fell silent.
The Ancient One regarded him with an intensity that bordered on scrutiny, as though measuring the truth of his words. Finally, she smiled.
"An intriguing proposal," she said, her tone measured. "I support your vision, Lockhart. If you require resources or guidance, simply ask."
Relief coursed through Lockhart, though he maintained his composed exterior.
"There's one thing I'd need to make this a reality," he ventured. "I'd like access to Kamar-Taj's library of magic and guidance on constructing a secret realm for the school."
The Ancient One's approval was immediate. "Consider it done."
Lockhart bowed slightly in gratitude. His suspicions were confirmed—the Ancient One saw potential in him, not as a threat but as an ally. She was preparing for the inevitable and placing bets on future contenders for Sorcerer Supreme.
"I'll do my best to make you proud," Lockhart said earnestly.
The Ancient One gave a rare smile. "You've already exceeded expectations. Continue on this path, and I see great things in your future."
Harry Potter World, Wizarding Secret Realm, School Square
"Welcome, everyone, to the grand opening ceremony of Kamar-Taj!" Lockhart's voice rang out across the massive square, amplified by magic.
The crowd of wizards, seated in terraced rows surrounding the central platform, turned their attention to him.
Lockhart stood tall on the stage, his golden robes catching the sunlight. Behind him, a banner emblazoned with the name Kamar-Taj waved gently in the enchanted breeze.
"Kamar-Taj is more than a school," he continued. "It is a sanctuary for innovation, a place where magical boundaries will be pushed, and a home for those who dream of shaping the future of wizardry."
"We will devote ourselves to refining the meditation method, enabling all Squibs to awaken their magic and erasing the concept of 'Squib' from wizarding history."
Applause erupted across the square.
Dumbledore watched intently, his expression calm but thoughtful.
Snape, seated beside him, smirked faintly. Kamar-Taj, he thought. Does Lockhart truly believe he can use that name without consequence?
But neither Snape nor anyone else in the audience noticed the ordinary-looking young wizard seated quietly near the back.
His face, though unremarkable, betrayed a flicker of emotion—surprise, recognition, and something darker.
Grindelwald, disguised and observing, suppressed a bitter laugh. Kamar-Taj, he mused. So this is where it's been hiding all along. How ironic.
His gaze drifted to the red-haired girl seated among the students on the square.
Wanda Maximoff.
The threads of fate he had glimpsed whispered her importance. She was the key to understanding the "New World" he had seen in his visions.
Grindelwald's thoughts darkened. The game has changed. But the pieces are all here.
On stage, Lockhart's voice took on an enthusiastic tone.
"To mark this historic moment, I present to you a performance by my students—a showcase of the magic we've cultivated together."
He gestured grandly. "Enjoy the Magical Feast!"
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