89 The Angry Balrog
"Newt, as the main hero of the series, shouldn't end up with a Balrog-induced demise," Artel contemplated. Newt's strength and luck, in his assessment, appeared robust. If Newt were to encounter the Balrog and recognize the overwhelming odds against him, seeking Dumbledore's assistance would be a logical step.
Artel believed that Dumbledore and his team would be competent enough to handle the Balrog. The Balrog, being a Maiar with immortality, could only be vanquished if the wizards themselves perished. Otherwise, the best outcome for Dumbledore's team would be to injure and contain the Balrog, preventing it from escaping.
Once Artel unlocked the Supreme Lord of the Rings ability, he envisioned having complete control over the Balrog, making it his subordinate.
The notion of controlling a Balrog, a creature from the depths of Middle-earth, brought a gleam to his eyes.
With a swift drop, the system successfully placed Durin's nemesis in the underground of the Congo Basin. As the system executed its commands, Artel couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement coursing through him.
The Isil spar displayed an image of the Balrog.
The Balrog, a colossal creature of shadow and flame, displayed manic behavior as it roamed wildly through the labyrinthine tunnels of the underground river. Its massive, horned silhouette cast foreboding shadows on the damp walls, and the glow of its fiery whip illuminated the subterranean darkness.
The Balrog's movements were tumultuous, resembling a menacing dance as it navigated the twisting passages. Its mighty claws scraped against the rocky surfaces, leaving deep gouges in the ancient stone. The underground river echoed with the thunderous sound of its roaring breath and the occasional booming growls that emanated from the abyssal depths within.
After a relentless pursuit through the dark tunnels, the Balrog's frenzied exploration led it to an unexpected discovery—a diverted and dried-up passage hidden away from the main flow of the underground river. Intrigued by the desolation and the lingering echoes of ancient magic, the Balrog paused.
With an ominous calm settling over its once-manic demeanor, the colossal creature performed a brief, powerful, magical enchantment. Flickers of dark energy played across its massive form as it harnessed the ancient forces resonating within the subterranean labyrinth. The air crackled with the raw power unleashed, and the very essence of the Balrog seemed to meld with the shadows.
Having completed the enchantment, the Balrog marked the entrance to the diverted passage with a sinister glyph, an enduring sign of its dominance in the hidden recesses of the underworld. Satisfied with its mystical work, the Balrog, now a brooding silhouette wreathed in flame and darkness, settled into a deep slumber. The once tumultuous underground river now flowed hushed as if paying homage to the formidable entity that had claimed a momentary respite in its eternal quest for supremacy.
The recent disturbances caused a drastic shift in the Congo Basin's environment, leading to the inexplicable demise of nearby plants. This abrupt change would surely capture Newt's attention.
Putting the Balrog matter aside, Artel turned his focus to "Saruman's Experiment Notes II," a reward from the system, ready to delve into further research.
Diverging from the first experiment notebook, the magic and potions detailed in this one were notably more advanced, primarily centered around the soul and spirit.
After a quick perusal, Artel's expression took an unusual turn.
"If Voldemort sees this... tsk..."
The notes contained details about a special magic potion designed to nourish and fortify the soul. It promised to be more suitable than the Philosopher's Stone for someone in Voldemort's Horcrux state, offering rapid enhancement.
Artel closed the notebook, stowing it in the system space. While the information was valuable, it wouldn't provide immediate benefits.
It was New Year's Eve that night. As darkness fell, Birmingham once again embraced a festive air.
The Shelby family hosted a small house party, with members gathering on the estate lawn to savor wine, barbecue, and the distant spectacle of children setting off fireworks.
...
The festivities continued until two in the morning. Returning to his room with a fatigued countenance, Artel enjoyed a hot bath, courtesy of Sophia, before succumbing to sleep.
Upon waking, it was already ten in the morning.
To ensure the smooth execution of the New Year's Day party, the manor's servants had been diligently at work for quite some time.
Preparations were underway for the grand New Year's party at Shelby Manor. Wine, pastries, and an array of ingredients adorned the lawn, strategically close to the expansive swimming pool—a spot chosen with the dual purpose of accommodating a pool party Jimmy had organized, complete with dozens of beautiful models.
While Aunt Nancy might have harbored some discontent, she chose to keep her grievances to herself.
The guest list comprised famous nobles, politicians, businessmen, and gang leaders from Birmingham—a rare assembly in ordinary times.
"Happy New Year, Master," greeted Sophia warmly as she approached Artel.
"You too, Happy New Year, Sophia," Artel replied, presenting her with a large red envelope—a New Year's gift.
"Thank you, Master!" Sophia beamed, her happiness not rooted in the monetary value but in the joy of residing in Shelby Manor, where her daily needs were effortlessly met.
After a brisk shower, Artel adorned himself in the traditional Shelby family suit for this special occasion. As he stood before the mirror, an eleven-year-old with an inexplicable allure stared back at him.
Loneliness lingered in his reflection.
After the final touches, Artel and Sophia left the room. Greetings of "Happy New Year" echoed as they traversed the manor.
.....
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