In the evening, Mr. Black returned home, wearing a wearied expression on his face.
Concerned, Mrs. Black asked during their meal, "My dear, did work not go well?"
"Today, Asher used the intelligence from the prophecy hall to track down the poisonous leopard, but unfortunately, we failed to capture it and it escaped," Mr. Black replied, his voice tinged with alarm. Even as a senior member of the operation, he felt a slight sense of embarrassment about the failed roundup.
The poisonous leopard was a highly dangerous magical creature, classified as a 5X-level threat. While the claim that it took over 100 wizards to subdue might be an exaggeration, it highlighted the true peril posed by this creature.
Its breath carried deadly diseases, and it possessed an astounding speed, approaching that of sound.
"In the end, it got away?" Amphisbaena asked in surprise.
Although the cystic leopard was a highly dangerous magical creature, the Magical Creature Management Department, supported by the entire Ministry of Magic, should have been capable of preventing its escape. It was a disgrace for the wizarding community.
After all, well-prepared wizards had the power to accomplish extraordinary feats. In a Dungeons and Dragons world, British wizards might even be asked by their peers to withdraw from the group due to their failure.
"Yes," Mr. Black responded with a serious expression. "The Cystic Leopard is incredibly dangerous, especially when wounded. It becomes nearly uncontrollable. Fortunately, none of us were injured."
Upon hearing Mr. Black's words, Amphisbaena immediately grasped the true reason behind the cystic leopard's escape. The members of the Fantastic Beast Management Department were left feeling ashamed.
Reflecting on it, the comfortable lives of modern wizards had made them somewhat complacent, while a single Voldemort could wreak havoc. If Voldemort were to face the challenges of the medieval wizarding world, he would likely face defeat.
It was akin to the developed countries of the Muggle world, whose prosperity and complacency often led to their downfall.
"So, was it badly injured? Is it in critical condition?" Amphisbaena's eyes gleamed with a mysterious glint.
Unaware of Amphisbaena's underlying intentions, Mr. Black inadvertently disclosed confidential information. "The injury is severe, and there's a chance it might not survive until the next predicted location."
Amphisbaena understood the implications. If the Fantastic Beast Management Department made another move, it would likely take a significant amount of time until the prophecy room provided a corresponding prediction.
Prophecy spells in the world of Harry Potter were not always precise; their unpredictability made wizards heavily reliant on chance. Professor Trelawney served as a prime example.
During dinner, Amphisbaena skillfully probed for specific details regarding Black's location.
The following day, Amphisbaena left home early, using a pretext of meeting a friend.
10 Downing Street, the epicenter of power in the British world, belonged to the secular domain while wizards had their own realm.
"Mr. Prime Minister, greetings," Amphisbaena politely greeted, doffing their hat.
The Prime Minister glanced at the unexpected middle-aged man in his office, slowly reaching his right hand toward an alarm device concealed under the table.
"Mr. Prime Minister, I kindly request that you refrain from summoning the police until I have finished speaking," Amphisbaena said calmly, their expression composed.
Having been caught in the act, the Prime Minister withdrew his hand, albeit hesitantly. "Of course, but I do hope you will make an appointment next time. It's rather impolite to show up uninvited."
"What if I could save the lives of thousands of people? Would that warrant an exception to proper etiquette?" Amphisbaena queried.
The mention of thousands of lives caused even the most powerful individuals in England to display a cautious expression.
"I'm not quite following, sir," the Prime Minister responded with a hint of confusion.
"I hail from the magical world, and I have come here in pursuit of the sacred leopard. I believe you are already privy to the pertinent information," Amphisbaena stated straightforwardly.
The Prime Minister's countenance darkened upon hearing the term "magical world." While the Prime Minister's office maintained a connection to this mysterious realm, it was not a pleasant association.
The arrogance of wizards persisted across all worlds.
When the British Ministry of Magic contacted the Prime Minister's residence, they employed a tone of "informing," as though they were authorities dictating terms. Who did they think they were? The medieval Pope? The Prime Minister's Office did not answer to the Ministry of Magic.
Observing the Prime Minister's expression, Amphisbaena recognized the opportunity that lay before them, even without needing to deliberate.
"Wasn't this matter already handed over to the Ministry of Magic?" the Prime Minister inquired in an official tone.
"No, sir, please do not misunderstand. I am not an employee of the Ministry of Magic," Amphisbaena clarified, their smile unwavering.
Upon hearing Amphisbaena's response, the Prime Minister's expression turned pensive. As a skilled politician, he comprehended the situation and feigned kindness as he spoke, "Would you care for a drink? I have a collection of fine French wines."
"As you wish."
The Prime Minister and Amphisbaena retired to the lounge, continuing their conversation while savoring French wine.
"Some of us believe that the current magical world is in need of reform. Times have changed, and it is no longer an era where wizards can command the elements. The wisdom of ordinary people has led them to conquer the moon and explore the depths of the abyss, while these wizards remain stagnant."
"They still refer to ordinary people with the derogatory term 'Muggle,' unaware that a single nuclear bomb could obliterate the entire wizarding world."
Amphisbaena spoke with eloquence, highlighting the stark separation between the magical world and ordinary people in the Harry Potter universe. The wizards in their idyllic enclaves failed to even inform their respective governments of significant matters.
Although Britain fared somewhat better, the experiences of Mr. Weasley, a pro-Muggle wizard, underscored the country's shortcomings. Their understanding of modern society remained mired in the 17th century.
Amphisbaena was acutely aware of these issues. It was already 1990, yet their home lacked even internet access—an incredulous notion.
"I believe the time has come for reforms, and my comrades and I are prepared to offer extensive support and assistance to you and your administration."
Amphisbaena concluded their previous speech with an affirmative statement.
The Prime Minister, upon hearing Amphisbaena's words, did not immediately respond. He understood Amphisbaena's identity all too well.
Rebellion against the establishment or chaos within the ranks—it was a mixed blessing for him. At the very least, it indicated that the extraordinary world was not a monolithic entity and that its factions would vie against each other.
Furthermore, he had the potential to become the first British Prime Minister to wield extraordinary powers. The prospect thrilled him, and he could hardly contain his excitement.
The Prime Minister, being a seasoned politician, retained his composure. "Of course, sir. Humanity is on the cusp of a new century, just ten years away. Science and technology progress rapidly each day, and we will grow even stronger..."
Then, his tone shifted. "I must apologize, but we have already engaged in cooperation with the Ministry of Magic, making it challenging to consider third-party involvement."
"Are you concerned about the Ministry of Magic's accountability?" Amphisbaena inquired with a smile, laying bare the Prime Minister's vulnerability.
Indeed, it was effortless for a wizard to manipulate ordinary people, even if the person in question held the esteemed position of a prime minister.
Flushed with embarrassment, the Prime Minister suppressed his anger.
"However, Honorable Prime Minister, with our support, you will no longer be an ordinary person lacking any means of resistance," Amphisbaena assured, presenting a fashionable sports bracelet.
Curious, the Prime Minister picked up the bracelet and asked, "What is this?" It resembled a sleek and sophisticated sports accessory from a reputable brand.
"[Amphisbaena's Enigmatic Bracelet], with it, no wizard can peer into your heart, and prophecy cannot predict your destiny."