Chapter 88: Alastor Moody [bonus]
"When the Ministry holds a legislative vote, cast the ballot we need. When the review expands, give us advance warning. And when necessary, say a few favorable words at the hearing."
Elder Burke's tone was casual. "A fair trade. We provide the goods. You provide the political capital."
Regulus didn't answer immediately. He was thinking.
All three items held genuine value. The Cursed Casket offered insight into ancient Blood Curse theory. The skull opened a window into soul magic. The cane... he couldn't say what it might teach, but instinct told him it mattered.
The risks, though, were enormous.
The Ministry review alone could be catastrophic.
Did the House of Black need to take that gamble?
That depended on his father's read of the political landscape, his assessment of the Burke family's worth, and his expectations for the depth of future cooperation.
"I'll pass along the message." Regulus kept his voice measured.