Entitled

Chapter 56*

Early the next morning, you are summoned to the sitting room for a private conversation. With a sense of trepidation, you make your way there, carrying Mary and Barry in your pouch. As you enter, you see Voldemort sitting, his gaze immediately zeroing in on the movement in your pouch.

"What are those?" he asks, his tone cold and curious.

You carefully open the pouch, revealing the two sugar gliders. "These are Mary and Barry, my companions," you say calmly. "I would like assurance that Nagini will not come near them."

Voldemort's eyes narrow slightly, a dangerous glint appearing in them. "Why do you feel you have the right to make demands?"

You take a deep breath, steadying yourself. "Because I am your heir," you state, your voice firm.

He raises an eyebrow, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Have you figured out your real name, then?"

You shake your head. "I have not given it much thought."

His expression hardens. "Is that because of Severus?"

"No," you reply, meeting his gaze without flinching. "Because it doesn't matter."

Voldemort leans back in his chair, studying you intently. "Explain."

"My name, my heritage—it doesn't change who I am," you say. "What matters are my actions and my choices. My value is not tied to my name but to what I can offer."

He seems to consider this for a moment, the room thick with tension. "And what is it that you offer, then?"

"I offer loyalty, as long as it is earned," you say carefully. "I offer intelligence, resourcefulness, and strength. But I need my companions with me, and I need my privacy. These are not demands; they are conditions for my cooperation."

Voldemort's gaze shifts to the sugar gliders, then back to you. "You speak boldly. Very well, your companions will be safe from Nagini. But remember, loyalty is not something to be negotiated lightly."

"Understood," you reply, feeling a slight relief.

He leans forward, his eyes narrowing. "You must realize that your actions and choices will be scrutinized. You are in a position where trust is precarious, and any sign of betrayal will not be tolerated."

"I understand," you say, keeping your voice steady. "I will act in a way that ensures both my survival and my usefulness to you. That being said, I am going to whatever village is near here and get food for myself. Do you require anything?"

Voldemort's eyes narrow slightly, and he hands you a list. You glance at it and see that it contains items that will require a trip to Diagon Alley.

"You will return in an hour," he states firmly.

"An hour isn't enough time for the shopkeeper to fill this list and for me to doddle about," you reply, your voice calm but firm. "I was assured I would have the freedom to come and go."

Voldemort's gaze sharpens, and for a moment, the room feels even colder. "Do not doddle too long," he warns.

You know you are in a test of wills at this moment, not just with an evil wizard but with your father, who you are more alike than you would care to admit. You meet his gaze evenly, refusing to back down.

"I will return as soon as I can," you say, turning to leave before he can respond further.

As you step outside, the morning air feels like a breath of fresh air compared to the stifling tension inside. You make your way to the nearest village and then apparate to Diagon Alley. The bustling streets are a stark contrast to the oppressive atmosphere of Voldemort's estate.