At the staff table, Dumbledore raised his goblet to Augustus, prompting nearly everyone in the Great Hall to stand and toast him.
Once everyone had resumed their seats, Dumbledore continued, "The purpose of the Triwizard Tournament is to strengthen and promote understanding within the magical community. Given recent events—Voldemort's resurrection—this bond is now more critical than ever."
Dumbledore glanced at Madame Maxime and Hagrid, then at Fleur Delacour and her fellow Beauxbatons students, and finally at Viktor Krum and his Durmstrang companions seated near the Slytherin table. Krum looked tense, even a bit frightened, as if expecting Dumbledore to deliver harsh words.
Augustus nodded slightly. During times of war, no matter how formidable the enemy, internal unity is paramount. Rallying every available force and fostering mutual trust while directing discord outward is the hallmark of a competent leader.
"Every guest in this hall," Dumbledore said, his gaze lingering on the Durmstrang students, "is welcome to return at any time. Let me reiterate—given Voldemort's resurrection, our strength lies in unity. Divided, we are vulnerable. Voldemort excels at sowing discord and hostility. Only by demonstrating unshakable friendship and trust can we resist him to the end. With shared goals and open hearts, differences in customs or language will cease to matter."
The train arrived at the station, and amidst the bustling crowd, Augustus dragged his suitcase through the throng.
Boarding the train, he found an empty compartment, entered it, placed his luggage overhead, and sat down. He pulled out a book on notable 19th-century wizards and began reading casually.
A knock sounded on the compartment door. Looking up, Augustus saw Cho Chang's serene face.
"Mr. Augustus, it's been a while," Cho said with a smile as she stepped inside with her luggage.
Augustus nodded slightly. "Who could have anticipated that such a simple competition would lead to so many events? It feels like an eternity since we last spoke before the tournament."
Cho sighed softly. "Even within the supposed safety of school, a place some believe to be an ivory tower, there are sinister plots and lurking shadows. Perhaps we all must eventually grow up and face the adult world, where deception and pretense abound. People wear different masks, all for fleeting interests. In time, even the purest part of one's heart erodes, and the original purpose is forgotten."
"The world has never been a child's fairy tale. Innocence and whimsy inevitably age and fade, leaving us only the harsh realities of the jungle. In a world governed by such brutal rules, there's little room for sympathy toward the weak. Strength and hope belong to the strong," Augustus replied with a faint smile.
Cho's expression turned slightly somber. To someone who had grown up believing in an idealized world, such truths could feel harsh and cruel.
"Voldemort's actions, in some sense, aren't entirely wrong," Augustus continued. "He merely exposed the world's true nature for all to see. History is written by the victors. If the Death Eaters were to prevail, those who survive would have no choice but to adapt to their new reality."
"If that's true, then what's the point of our efforts?" Cho countered. "Under the Dark Lord's rule, power and truth would rest solely in the hands of pure-bloods. A person's birth and lineage don't define nobility. True strength and dignity come from one's character."
"Well said," Augustus responded with a light chuckle. "In my opinion, bloodline is nothing more than a shield for the weak to hide behind. True strength has never cared for such trivialities. Genuine power remains the foundation for anyone to thrive in this world."
Cho offered a knowing smile. "If the wizarding world truly needs a leader, I'd rather it be someone like you. Compared to those hypocritical politicians who prioritize factional struggles and petty power plays, your integrity and vision are far superior."
Augustus gave a faint, wry smile. "It's easy to judge from the sidelines. Being in a position of power brings unimaginable pressures and responsibilities. Politics is a swamp that spares no one. Once you step into it, you're no longer free to act independently. To change the world, one must first have the strength to do so."
Outside the window, lush greenery flashed by under a vast, cloudless blue sky.
The train slowly pulled into King's Cross Station.
Augustus and Cho disembarked together.
Aurora was already waiting on the platform. Seeing them, she walked over.
"So, this is Miss Cho Chang? We met at school last month," Aurora greeted with a warm smile, addressing Cho directly and ignoring Augustus entirely.
"Hello, Mrs. Aurora," Cho replied politely. "Though it's been some time, I remember you clearly. With such remarkable poise, it's hard not to."
Aurora smiled slightly. "If you're free during the holidays, do visit the Julius Estate. Augustus's father and I would love to host you. You're always welcome."
Augustus pursed his lips slightly, feeling like a bystander in the conversation. Fine, carry on with your display of camaraderie. I'll excuse myself. Without a word, he picked up his luggage and walked away.
Aurora glanced at Augustus's retreating figure and said awkwardly, "He can be quite rude. But do come visit us at the estate if you get the chance."
Cho nodded lightly and smiled. "Of course. Goodbye, Mrs. Aurora." Then, raising her voice, she called after Augustus, "Mr. Augustus, wait for me! I'll visit you during the holidays!"
Without turning back, Augustus raised his hand in acknowledgment before disappearing into the crowd. His figure slowly faded from view.
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