The corridors of Hogwarts receded behind me as I ascended the steps from the Keepers' Caverns, the darkness of the repository still lingering faintly in my veins like a hum of power. Every heartbeat thrummed with the newly acquired energy, my magic reserves now overflowing and nearly limitless. I could feel the world bending ever so slightly to my awareness, every magical current whispering potential into my mind.
But I was not finished. Power alone was not enough. Strategy, foresight, and manipulation were just as crucial. And there was one piece of leverage I had yet to claim—the Defence Against the Dark Arts position.
I paused just outside the empty classroom that had once been a battleground of ambition and denied opportunities. The aura of repeated failure hung there like dust, but I didn't hesitate. I extended my hand, feeling the ancient curse pulse beneath my fingers—the same curse the original Voldemort had placed decades ago.
It was elegant in its cruelty. Any future occupant would be cursed to fail, their combat magic hindered at the very heart of battle. They would struggle to cast advanced spells, their reflexes dulled, and their offensive magic slowed. The position, while prestigious, would become a trap for Dumbledore's future forces. Every generation attempting to challenge me would unknowingly weaken themselves before even stepping onto the battlefield.
A smile curved in my mind as I whispered the incantation, binding the curse. It flowed seamlessly into the magical fabric of Hogwarts, invisibly intertwining with the protections and enchantments placed on the position. Years, decades, even centuries from now, wizards and witches would falter here.
It was done. A strategic move cloaked as an academic inconvenience. Simple, elegant, and devastating in its long-term impact.
Satisfied, I apparated back to Riddle Manor, the familiar shadows of my home wrapping around me like a cloak. My mind raced—not with concern, but with possibilities. My magical power was unparalleled. My allies were loyal, talented, and growing stronger under my guidance. And now, every obstacle in my path had just become slightly easier, every enemy subtly weaker before even taking a step.
I allowed myself a moment to revel in it, my dark heart quietly humming in delight. Hogwarts had denied me the post I desired, but it had provided me the opportunity to shape the battlefield of the future before anyone even knew it existed.
Every decision, every spell, every curse—it all contributed to the empire I was building. And soon, the world would bend to my will.
I leaned back in my chair, closing my eyes as I let the power of the repository and the founders' teachings flow through me. The revolution would begin sooner than anyone anticipated.