https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1747-A-War-with-No-Victor-Part-197-/12938285/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1749-A-War-With-No-Victor-Part-199-/12938287/
Chapter 1748: A War with No Victors (Part 198)
Chapter 1748: A War with No Victors (Part 198)
"Do you really expect us to believe that nonsense?" George couldn't help but roll his eyes at Albert.
In truth, they did believe Albert's words, and they trusted that he would help. However, how much he could actually assist was another matter. George estimated that the order for the 'Communication Bookmarks' from the Ministry of Magic would likely still require Fred to complete most of it.
"Why don't we get started now?"
Fred wasn't foolish; he quickly understood the situation and placed his hand on Albert's shoulder.
"I think with your help, we can finish that order in no time."
"You can't expect me to do everything for you. What will you do when I start my world tour?" Albert, with a dismissive gesture, brushed off Fred's hand from his shoulder and said irritably, "Do you want me to just watch from the sidelines or send me an owl halfway through my journey to call me back?"
"That's a good idea. We'll remember to write to you," George winked playfully, "Just make sure you leave your owl behind."
"I haven't used it to send a letter in a long time." Albert thought of his owl, which was kept as a pet, and shook his head.
"It must have gotten as fat as your cat!" Fred couldn't help but be speechless at the thought of Albert's cat, Tom. This was indeed something Albert would do.
"Alright, I'm quite busy. I have to make a trip to Avalon first, and then to Hogwarts." Albert was ready to end the conversation and leave.
"Why are you always rushing to Avalon lately? That's not like you." George curiously asked as Albert prepared to leave.
He knew that Albert had always wanted to foster everyone's independence, often trying to distance himself to prevent them from becoming too reliant.
"It's because everyone is too anxious. If I don't make time to check on them, they might make a mess of things."
"You should trust them."
"I'd like to, just as I trust you." Albert waved goodbye and, after opening the door, he apparated away.
"I knew it would come to this!" George wasn't oblivious to Albert's "good intentions," but they didn't want these "good intentions." After all, not only was Albert busy, but they were equally occupied!
"What should we do now?"
Fred and George exchanged glances, "How about finding someone skilled in Transformation spells to help?"
This was their backup plan, or rather, the backup plan Albert had left them. However, hiring another person would reduce their Galleons significantly, as they would have to split the profits.
"That's not easy to find, and this person must be reliable!"
After a moment of silence, George and Fred spoke in unison, "What about Lupin and Sirius?"
Both of them laughed, as they could also see that many of the 'Happy Home' business operations would be divided.
Hiring help was inevitable.
Black's Transfiguration skills were undoubtedly impressive, given his status as a former Azkaban prisoner and an Animagus. This was a top-tier Transformation spell that wasn't easily mastered by just anyone. However, they weren't sure if Sirius would be willing to take on this side job, and... how many Galleons should they offer as a fair compensation?
"We can ask them first!"
Fred considered himself proficient in Transfiguration magic, but when it came to creating Communication Bookmarks, he wasn't as adept as Albert. Mastering the advanced use of any spell was incredibly challenging, and Albert was well aware of this. However, if Fred wanted to succeed in this business, he would have to dedicate time to overcoming this hurdle.
"There's no need to rush things. Being too hasty is never a good idea."
Albert's face was filled with resignation as he observed the bustling workers. It took him a while to muster the courage to say what was on his mind.
Sometimes, being too eager could lead to mistakes, but his words didn't always carry the desired weight.
"If you were to stay in the United Kingdom until the end of the year, I believe everyone would be more than willing to slow down the construction pace."
Shanna, walking alongside Albert, felt a hint of annoyance towards the man who was speaking so casually. Didn't he understand the pressure everyone was under?
He had the luxury of traveling and enjoying himself, but what about the rest of them?
Shanna herself was a prime example. She wasn't sure if she could manage Avalon once Albert left the United Kingdom.
Therefore, the best option was to complete the village construction as soon as possible and get Avalon up and running.
"Are you staying to be a nuisance?"
Albert could easily guess what was on everyone's mind, but he felt their concerns were unnecessary.
He didn't deny his significant role in the project, but he didn't believe his absence would cause the entire structure to collapse.
Moreover, he was only going on a trip, not dying.
Even if something unexpected happened, they could still communicate through the Two-Faced Mirror and discuss solutions together.
However, this didn't ease Shanna's tension. After knowing each other for so long, how could she not understand Albert?
"They need a reasonable plan, not impulsive decisions. That kind of enthusiasm won't last long."
Along the way, Albert pointed out several mistakes caused by the rush, and Shanna's expression became increasingly strained.
"I think you should talk to them yourself!" Shanna fixed her gaze on Albert's eyes, offering her advice earnestly.
"I will, but... I don't think it'll be very effective!" Albert muttered.
As it turned out, Albert's intuition was correct. When he briefly mentioned the issue during a break, most people still hoped to complete Avalon before he left the United Kingdom.
They never doubted Shanna's abilities, but she wasn't the core of the team and didn't possess Albert's level of authority. Everyone feared that most of the Avalon project would come to a halt or turn into another Hogsmeade Village...
It wasn't a lack of self-confidence; Albert was the central figure that kept the team tightly united. It was his presence that made the incredible and unconventional village of Avalon possible.
So, they completely ignored this concern.
As for the minor issues Albert mentioned, they could be addressed later. After all, they were just ordinary people, and it was challenging to achieve the level of perfection Albert had envisioned.
The more intricate the details, the more time was needed to resolve them.
"See?"
Shanna's expression seemed to say, "I knew this would happen."
"Let it be, then. People grow through their mistakes, and it's unrealistic to expect them to get everything right the first time."
Albert readily admitted his mistake, appearing indifferent.
He knew everyone wanted him to stay in the United Kingdom longer, but Albert didn't want to keep holding onto this ticking time bomb. Even if the explosion might not harm him, he would undoubtedly get covered in dust.
(End of Chapter)
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