To be a Slytherin

Part 7

When the voice spoke again, it was tinted with amusement. "Indeed. Whether you be good or bad, it is a matter of perspective. What are your feelings towards muggles?"

Hecate pondered the question for a moment before answering. "They may have potential to improve the world a minor bit. However, their feelings towards magic would likely pose problems. People tend to fear what they do not understand."

"That does appear to be the case," the disembodied voice agreed. "Now, one other question. Why should you be Lady Merlin? The House has gone a century without a leader. It is perfectly capable of continuing to do so."

"Who said that I should be Lady Merlin? I'm only in here because the Head Goblin brought me here. I already have a great deal of power with just my other houses. I don't exactly need another title. Granted, it could be useful in the future if I became Lady Merlin, but I really don't feel the need for it to happen."

The voice seemed to ponder her words for a while before it spoke again. "I will give you access to the Merlin line. All of the properties and family magic will be available to you. You will do great things, Hecate Potter."

I do hope so, Hecate thought as she walked back out of the room. Goldenaxe was still there, waiting for her, and she smiled at him. "I was apparently a very good candidate for the title," the young witch informed him.

The goblin nodded and led her back to his office, where Karkoff was waiting for them. "Where were you?" he questioned. "Why did you just disappear like that?"

Hecate cocked an eyebrow. "That is a House matter, I would advise you to stay out of it." Karkoff seemed taken aback by her cold tone and facial expression, but wisely let it drop. "What did the Volkovs say about taking me in?"

Karkoff's face rearranged itself into an unreadable mask. "They said they would do it. In fact, they were delighted to be able to teach a child that was raised by muggles about our customs. Not to mention their inability to have children of their own. They intend to come and adopt you, I believe, once we get back to the orphanage."

The young witch glanced at Goldenaxe, and he passed her a small, pouch-like, bag. "Your rings, Lady Potter. Anything you have to pay for, put your seal on the paper. We'll handle it from there."

"Which vault would you suggest I use?"

The Head Goblin paused, but only for a moment. "The Safria vault. It will help you go incognito for longer. May your gold multiply and your enemy's blood water your garden."

"Thank you, Head Goblin. May gold fill your pockets and your enemies fall to their knees," Hecate replied, sweeping out of the room. Karkoff followed her as she dramatically exited the bank.