Chapter 19: Searching for Headmaster Dumbledore
Approaching and taking a look, Xiao Deng breathed a sigh of relief.
There was other food today, even things like chicken legs, rice, and noodles.
If they had to eat bread every day, the sky would truly fall.
The group bought the food they liked and then sat together.
Just as they sat down, Ron gave a soft exclamation.
"I forgot to get a fork!"
He was about to stand up when Xiao Deng pressed him down.
"It's not that much trouble."
With a gentle wave of his wand, the single fork on Harry's side instantly became two.
"Holy Old Bat's underpants, you, you, you..."
"That is just too amazing!"
Hermione frowned slightly and looked at Ron.
"Keep your voice down, or you'll get detention!"
"You've already had his class, do you think he has a good temper?"
"Why don't you ever learn?"
Ron realized he had spoken out of turn, but unwilling to admit defeat, he stubbornly said:
"He's not here! Don't try to scare me!"
"But then again, Xiao Deng, that trick of yours is way better than some know-it-all who only talks!"
Hermione was so angry her eyelid twitched; she couldn't take it anymore!
She immediately pulled her wand from her robes and pressed it against Ron's forehead.
"Let's make a bet. Let's bet on whether I've learned any offensive magic."
Ron looked at Hermione in horror. What on earth was she trying to do!
Xiao Deng, oh, right, Xiao Deng!
"Xiao Deng, hurry and stop her!"
"What if she really knows some? I don't want to be the test subject!"
Ron was forced to the point of tears.
Xiao Deng placed his hand on Hermione's shoulder from behind.
"Come on, babe, give me the wand."
"If you accidentally hurt someone, you'll get in trouble."
"I'm doing this for your own good!"
Hermione rolled her eyes at Xiao Deng.
"Why are you being so naggy?"
Xiao Deng took the opportunity to take the wand from Hermione's hand and turned to look at her.
"You know that?"
Hermione was stunned for a moment, then realized that what he had just said was exactly what she had said earlier.
In a fit of shy anger, she reached into her Wizard robes for her wand, but felt nothing.
Only then did she remember that Xiao Deng had taken it.
"Give it back!"
Xiao Deng mimicked Hermione and extended his index finger.
"Not right now!"
Hermione was truly angry, but helpless.
She angrily stabbed at her food with her fork.
Harry, on the other hand, happily watched the three of them interact.
For the past dozen years or so, he had basically never experienced the warmth of messing around with friends.
Hermione wasn't speaking, so to avoid an awkward silence, Harry initiated the conversation.
"Xiao Deng, can you share some of those noodles with me?"
Xiao Deng looked down at the noodles on his plate and smiled slightly.
"Of course, I haven't tried this yet, I'll share some with you."
He dished some out for Harry, then turned back to see a pair of large eyes staring at him.
"Do you want some too? I'll share some with you as well."
"I don't want noodles."
Xiao Deng was an excellent disciple of the Hehuan Sect; how could he not understand what a girl was saying?
"Then what do you want to eat?"
Hermione glanced at the chicken leg on Xiao Deng's plate.
"I want to eat everything."
Xiao Deng understood immediately and immediately placed the chicken leg into Hermione's bowl.
"Don't be polite, consider it my apology, okay?"
Hermione swatted Xiao Deng's hand away from her head.
"I suppose that'll do!"
Xiao Deng revealed a gentle smile and said nothing more.
Harry and Ron exchanged glances and reached a consensus.
Hermione is really hard to deal with!
After eating, everyone put their cutlery down, and it automatically disappeared.
"You guys go play first, I have something to do at the Headmasters Office."
Ron immediately asked: "Is it still about Filch?"
Xiao Deng shook his head and said: "His matter is basically settled."
"The apology letter will be written soon."
"I have other matters to confirm with the Principal."
With that said, the others didn't ask any more questions.
Xiao Deng stood up and headed towards the Headmasters Office.
Hermione watched Xiao Deng's back and couldn't help but clench her little fist.
He must be progressing faster than me, going to find the Principal to learn more powerful Spells.
No, I have to study harder!
Xiao Deng didn't know that his unintentional words had already made an overachiever even more crazily dedicated to studying.
Not long after, Xiao Deng stood in front of the gargoyle.
This seems to require a password to pass.
Last time it was because of the Filch incident that he was brought in by someone.
This time, coming alone, what is the password?
"Hello, I'm here to see Headmaster Dumbledore."
The air was filled with silence; nothing happened.
What should he do?
"Steamed bear paw, steamed deer tail, roasted duck, roasted chicken..."
Xiao Deng was so parched from talking that he really wanted to cast Langlock on it so it would never speak again.
Xiao Deng was about to give up when the gargoyle suddenly rotated, revealing the staircase behind it.
Xiao Deng's mouth twitched. This old guy isn't doing this on purpose, is he?
He followed the stairs all the way to a door and knocked.
"Knock knock~"
"Please come in!"
Xiao Deng pushed the door open and entered, but to his surprise, Professor McGonagall was also there.
"Professors, good afternoon!"
"Good afternoon, Xiao Deng."
Professor McGonagall greeted him with an upturned mouth.
"I heard you lost points in Professor Snape's class today."
"Did you call him 'Old Bat' to his face?"
Dumbledore raised an eyebrow slightly and glanced at Professor McGonagall.
You two really haven't changed, after all these years, you still haven't stopped.
Xiao Deng felt slightly embarrassed.
"Can I say that I only lost points because I asked some questions?"
Professor McGonagall smiled and said nothing.
Although seeing Snape get frustrated was quite funny, she still wouldn't approve of offensive behavior.
Dumbledore looked at Xiao Deng and asked: "Do you have a question for me?"
Xiao Deng bowed slightly and revealed a gentle smile.
"There are some things I would like to ask you."
Dumbledore noticed Xiao Deng's choice of words and glanced at Professor McGonagall.
It seems this little guy has something to say that he's not sure if Professor McGonagall should know.
Coming from Snape's class, it wouldn't be related to Snape, would it?
"Professor McGonagall, you should head back first."
Professor McGonagall could naturally see Xiao Deng's hesitation, so she took the opportunity Dumbledore gave her.
"Alright, now that it's just the two of us in this room, you can speak."
Xiao Deng adjusted his Wizard robes and then slowly began to speak.
"I want to understand Professor Snape."
"Today, rather than saying I made a mistake, it would be more accurate to say he was targeting Harry."
Dumbledore did not immediately answer Xiao Deng's question.
Instead, he took out some lemon sherbet and looked at Xiao Deng.
"Would you like some?"
Xiao Deng was slightly stunned; there was actually a hint of anticipation in Dumbledore's eyes.
"I haven't tried it yet, let me have a taste."
At this moment, Dumbledore smiled.
"It tastes wonderful!"
"As for Professor Snape, it's entirely for your sake; he is just cold on the outside and warm on the inside."
"You just don't understand him yet."
Xiao Deng ate the lemon sherbet, his mouth twitching.
This old guy is trying to fool me!
"Headmaster, you surely understand what I mean?"
The smile on Dumbledore's face as he ate the lemon sherbet gradually faded.
"Smart child, what have you figured out?"
Chapter 20: A Beautiful Female Ghost
"Harry is a new student; it is highly likely that Professor Snape has never met him before."
"But he pays special attention to Harry, which is illogical, even with Harry bearing the title of 'The Chosen One'."
"The only explanation is that he not only knows Harry but also knows things that even Harry himself is unaware of."
"Or rather, he has seen, or perhaps even experienced, things related to Harry."
"Harry's background is no secret in the Wizarding World."
"Therefore, it has to do with that conflict."
"To pay such attention to a child, it is highly likely that it also concerns his parents."
"Am I right, Headmaster Dumbledore?"
Dumbledore's eyelids twitched slightly. Am I getting old?
No, no, no. Even Harry, the person involved, can't tell.
It's just that the little guy in front of me is too monstrously clever!
Xiao Deng smiled slightly as he looked at Dumbledore's look of slight surprise.
I, Xiao Deng, don't understand magic, nor do I understand Professor Snape.
But I am a disciple of the Hehuan Sect, okay? I understand women!
Just look at the way Snape looks at Harry; it's more complicated than the Potion Class he teaches.
That is the child of an old friend, carrying the likeness of that old friend.
Definitely a love rival!
As for Harry's parents, who was the lover and who was the rival, Xiao Deng couldn't tell.
The brains of people in this world seem a bit twisted, so he didn't dare to jump to conclusions.
Dumbledore remained silent for a long time, and Xiao Deng did not urge him.
"I cannot say more about other matters."
"You only need to remember one thing!"
"At any time, in any place, Professor Snape can be trusted!"
Xiao Deng bowed, but his eyes darted to the side.
Dumbledore naturally noticed Xiao Deng's gaze.
"It is a Phoenix, named Fawkes."
This is a Phoenix? It seems different from the Phoenix in his memory.
It should count as a magical creature of the Wizarding World.
Xiao Deng walked over slowly, wanting to reach out and touch it, then looked back at Dumbledore.
"I think if Fawkes doesn't dislike you, you can be friends."
As soon as he turned his head back, Fawkes flapped its wings twice and hopped onto Xiao Deng's hand.
The corners of Xiao Deng's mouth couldn't help but curl up.
"I heard that every Phoenix raises a Dumbledore..."
"Uh... no..."
"Every companion Dumbledore will have a Dumbledore..."
"Uh, no..."
Dumbledore's face had already darkened.
Right now, Dumbledore wanted to cast a Silencing Charm on him; if he didn't know how to speak, he could just keep his mouth shut.
"Headmaster, I didn't mean that..."
"Alright, you don't have to say it, I know, I know!"
Just at this moment, Fawkes let out a joyful cry.
It spread its wings and landed on the desk in front of Dumbledore.
It happily flapped its wings and chirped again.
"Headmaster, Fawkes seems quite happy."
"What did it say?"
Dumbledore's forehead was covered in black lines; Xiao Deng couldn't understand it, but how could he not?
This flattery—oh no, this Phoenix flattery—really makes a child happy.
Fawkes was very happy; it was agreeing with Xiao Deng's statement.
He looked at the innocent-looking Xiao Deng with a bad mood.
This rebellious little Wizard; hopefully, he won't corrupt Fawkes later.
He couldn't let him stay in the office any longer.
Having lived for so many years, Xiao Deng naturally understood that Dumbledore wanted to see him out.
"Thank you, Headmaster, then I will return to the Dormitory."
Watching Xiao Deng leave, he suddenly figured something out.
He wasn't here to find the truth, just for some peace of mind.
Thinking of this, Dumbledore slowly sat down.
Could he be included in the plan?
A brilliantly smart and talented potential asset.
Wait!
Could he have already guessed that I have a plan, which is why he came over to confirm its safety!
Dumbledore looked again in the direction Xiao Deng had left.
This child's intellect is far beyond his peers!
If it is truly as I suspect, I can appropriately grant him some permissions.
When Xiao Deng returned to the Dormitory, several people were complaining about the Old Bat.
School had only started a few days ago, and they were already chatting familiarly.
It seems Professor Snape played a big part in this.
Back then, he used the same method to get on intimate terms with his senior sisters.
They all called him a rebellious disciple and even wanted to commit insubordination!
It was a four-on-one female-on-male fight!
It wasn't until he unleashed his talent and surpassed all four senior sisters in one go that his miserable life ended.
After his strength surpassed the four senior sisters, and he surpassed their master as well, they gradually became docile.
Xiao Deng entered the Dormitory but did not join their crusade.
Little brats; their word choices were simply weak. In the cultivation world, even a three-year-old child could out-talk them.
As for tomorrow, it's Quirrell's class.
He seems to teach the Defense Against the Dark Arts Class, which Xiao Deng is indeed a bit interested in.
Whether from books, in Diagon Alley, or in the Library, he had read quite a bit of information.
He wondered if this Professor could share some of his own experiences and insights.
At the same time, he also needed to observe his situation further.
The first time he met him, he was still in the Qi Refining stage; now, he has already reached Foundation Establishment.
He would certainly be able to perceive things he couldn't feel before.
Quirrell also seems very concerned about Harry, but unlike Snape's thorny attention.
Snape was deliberately looking for trouble and making small talk, while Quirrell was more sinister.
How should he put it? It felt more like being targeted by a cold-blooded animal.
Even though he looks harmless on the surface.
Lost in thought, time passed, and soon night fell.
Just when his companions had all fallen asleep, Xiao Dengslowly opened his eyes.
Such a good time, of course, it's time for a night stroll!
He took out a night-travel suit from his spatial ring; this was made by a Muggle tailor before coming to Hogwarts.
After changing, Xiao Deng snuck out.
But he didn't have a guide for the time being, and he didn't know where to go.
"I should have made plans with the Weasley Brothers."
"Coming out with them would definitely be better as they are more familiar with the routes."
"Now, if there's no other way, I can only use the most primitive method: carpet search."
"Going back now would make this trip a waste!"
Muttering to himself as he walked, he unknowingly wandered into the second floor.
By the time Xiao Deng came to his senses, he had arrived at a place.
"This looks like a washroom."
"There shouldn't be anything special in this place, right?"
As soon as Xiao Deng finished speaking, an echo rang out, giving him a start.
"Wow, what do I see?"
"A handsome new student breaking the rules and out for a night stroll!"
Xiao Deng turned his head, but there was nothing behind him.
Turning back again, a ghost was right in his face.
"Are you looking for me?"
Giving Xiao Deng another start, he raised his fist and punched out.
"F*ck, you scared the hell out of me!"
However, the fist missed, causing the ghost to giggle.
Xiao Deng calmed down and looked not far away.
Standing there prettily... er, floating there was a ghost.
Xiao Deng's eyes lit up slightly.
A beautiful female ghost!
Chapter 21: How did the Beast Taming Sect tame beasts again?
"Are you a ghost?"
The female ghost looked at her own appearance.
"Isn't that obvious enough?"
"Then how old are you?"
The female ghost rushed toward Xiao Deng, feigning ferocity.
"You first-year student are really rude. Don't you know you shouldn't ask a girl her age so casually?"
Xiao Deng spread his hands, his face full of innocence.
"I didn't ask your age either!"
The female ghost stared at Xiao Deng with a confused expression, her sixth sense causing her to subconsciously look down.
In an instant, she understood Xiao Deng's words, and a pink flush actually appeared on her pale face.
"Bah!"
She spat, said nothing else, and dove straight into the faucet.
Huh? She's shy already? She can't take a joke!
Xiao Deng was alone; it was better than fumbling around in the dark, and finding a local female ghost was simply perfect.
"Ghost?"
"Miss Ghost?"
"Ghost girl?"
"Are you still there?"
"Are you wailing at a funeral? I'm not here, I haven't been here for many years!"
The female ghost drifted out of the faucet again.
"You really are rude. I have a name; I'm called Myrtle."
Xiao Deng found a place to sit down.
"I didn't know your name, so how can that be considered rude?"
Myrtle was speechless for a moment, but she hadn't spoken to anyone in a long time and was too lonely.
Most importantly, this first-year student was very handsome.
She hadn't seen anyone this handsome in all these years, and she didn't want to drive Xiao Deng away.
"What's your name?"
"Xiao Deng Hehuan Sect."
Myrtle:???
"What a strange surname. I've never heard of it. You must be from the Muggle world, right?"
Seeing Xiao Deng nod, Myrtle's eyes flashed with surprise and delight.
"Will you come over to play with me in the future?"
Xiao Deng looked Myrtle up and down.
"What are you staring at? Keep looking and I'll poke your eyeballs out!"
Xiao Deng spread his hands, revealing an innocent expression.
"You can't blame me for that. You're so pretty, you can't expect people not to look."
Myrtle's pale face turned pink again.
"Slick-tongued!"
Xiao Deng poked at Myrtle's ethereal form.
"Besides, you're an ethereal form, you don't even have a body, so how can I play with you?"
Myrtle:???
Why does that sound so wrong?
"Look at Peeves?"
Myrtle shrieked and roared, instantly floating in front of Xiao Deng.
"Is that the same? I am a pure ghost!"
Xiao Deng stood up and brushed the dust off his body.
"I'm going for a night stroll. I can't just spend all night chatting with an intangible ethereal form, can I?"
As soon as he looked up, he saw Myrtle looking at him with a pitiful expression.
"Do you dislike me? You're leaving so soon."
Xiao Deng's mouth twitched. You can't be touched, I don't know how old you are, and we're just chatting!
"Can you leave this place?"
"If you can leave, come with me and show me the way."
Myrtle's face instantly turned joyful.
"Of course I can, but after we're done playing, I'll return here."
Xiao Deng walked out of the washroom, oriented himself, and headed out.
Myrtle playfully sat on Xiao Deng's head, but Xiao Dengcouldn't feel any weight.
Xiao Deng was still very concerned about that Fourth Floor.
Even though he knew there was a high probability he couldn't get in, he still wanted to try.
If it weren't for the fact that he was still in the Foundation Establishment stage, there would be better ways to handle it.
He didn't know if Dumbledore could understand what he meant, or if he would leave a backdoor for him.
When Xiao Deng arrived at the Fourth Floor, he knew Dumbledore's attitude.
That staircase wasn't wandering around aimlessly today; it was parked there quietly.
Wait a minute!
You mean to say this staircase was already like this, or did it become like this after nightfall?
If it became like this after nightfall, isn't he afraid of someone taking advantage of the opening?
"Xiao Deng, this staircase is strange!"
"There seems to be a rule this year that you aren't allowed to go to the Fourth Floor."
Xiao Deng shook his head slightly, indicating he didn't know.
Naturally, he wouldn't tell Myrtle, whom he had just met, everything.
Coming back to his senses, he glanced unobtrusively at the endless ceiling.
If it had just become like this, it meant that old Dumbledorehad a way to observe the situation here.
Xiao Deng felt alert; he would have to be more careful in the future.
Xiao Deng came to the door and twisted the handle; it was locked.
"Alohomora: Alohomora!"
"Oh, Dumbledore's colorful socks! You actually know the Alohomora spell!"
Xiao Deng didn't speak; he raised his spirits to the highest level. Who knew what was behind the door?
He pushed the door open and entered, but the door closed automatically.
Myrtle's forehead hit the door, and she sat down on the ground on her bottom.
Myrtle's eyes widened; this door had magic cast on it.
Even a ghost like her couldn't get in.
Could it be the current Principal?
Was she in trouble?
Myrtle wanted to run back to her washroom, but looking at the door, she decided to wait for Xiao Deng a little longer.
In case something happened, she could still call for help.
Just as nervous as Myrtle was Xiao Deng, who had already entered.
Cold sweat broke out directly on his back.
A Cerberus was staring at him fiercely.
Xiao Deng quickly searched his brain for a way to solve the problem before him.
If he had known, he would have learned some beast-taming techniques from those animals in the Beast Taming Sect.
Otherwise, he wouldn't be this panicked right now.
How did those disciples of the Beast Taming Sect use to command their pets?
This seems to be a dog, right?
"You're a dog, right?"
Cerberus:???
Does that even need asking?
The things on top of its three pairs of shoulders probably aren't pig heads.
Also, can you separate "dog" and "right"? It sounds so unpleasant!
Xiao Deng couldn't think of how to tame the beast for the moment.
But if it's a doggy, would everyday methods work?
"Big doggy, tsk tsk tsk~"
The rumbling in the throats of the three dog heads didn't stop, but they half-narrowed their eyes.
Are you even a person?
A Cerberus! Do you know what a Cerberus is?
The very fierce kind!
And you use this method to coax a dog?
Burning newspapers at a grave—are you trying to fool a ghost?
Xiao Deng sighed, watching the Cerberus remain unmoved.
He took a piece of wild boar meat out of his spatial ring and threw it to the Cerberus.
This was from the last time he was in the Foundation Establishment stage; he had slaughtered a wild boar and kept it in his spatial ring.
The Cerberus looked at the pork, and its gaze toward Xiao Deng softened significantly.
It wagged its tail and began to gnaw, but its body didn't retreat even half a step.
This disappointed Xiao Deng; without harming or alerting this old dog, he couldn't get in today.
Watching the Cerberus gnaw on the meat, he fell into deep thought.
Hagrid is the gamekeeper; he should be very knowledgeable about the habits of various creatures.
He could ask about the Cerberus indirectly.
Xiao Deng didn't know that much about magical creatures, so this was a good opportunity to learn.
Quirrell needed to be observed, magical animals needed to be understood, and the corridors needed to be familiarized.
He also had to pay attention to whether there were any other abnormal situations at Hogwarts.
Even meeting Myrtle today showed that it wasn't completely without danger inside Hogwarts.
He had to ensure that the environment for improving his cultivation was safe as well.
Thinking of this, Xiao Deng didn't linger any longer; things were piling up for tomorrow, and everything would wait until tomorrow night.
Quirrell's class—he had to observe it carefully.
Chapter 22: A Gift for the Little Lolita
"Click~"
Xiao Deng turned the doorknob and came out from inside.
"You've come out!"
Myrtle suddenly appeared right in front of Xiao Deng's face, startling him.
"You want to scare me to death!"
"You were a lonely ghost before; if I were gone, you'd become a widow ghost."
"What good would that do you?"
Myrtle:???
Are you even human? You try to take advantage whenever you get the chance!
If it weren't for your good looks, I would...
Myrtle's pale face flushed with color again.
Xiao Deng didn't care; ghosts, after all, don't even have bodies.
A bit of teasing was nothing serious.
"It's getting late, I should head back too."
"Huh? You're leaving already?"
Myrtle looked at Xiao Deng, still quite reluctant to let him go.
There hadn't been many people who could talk to her in all these years.
"I'm just going back to sleep, not dying. I'll come ask you how old you are again later."
Oh, right, he's still human, he needs to rest, and he'll come back.
He'll still ask... how...
"Shut up, you little rascal!"
Myrtle screamed and floated back to the second floor.
Xiao Deng shook his head with a smile and walked away.
He had only taken two steps when the stairs behind him began to rotate.
Xiao Deng didn't pay it any mind and turned to walk away, but after just two more steps, a sound reached his ears.
Startled, he instantly expanded his spiritual sense.
"The Weasley Brothers? What are they out for again?"
"They can't be messing with Filch again, can they?"
Xiao Deng leaned against the corner, careful not to alert the two.
"George, are we going a bit too far?"
George stared at Fred with wide eyes, as if he didn't recognize him.
"When he wanted to use corporal punishment, why didn't you think it was going too far?"
"You're actually going soft?"
"No, no, no, I mean, the thing we're researching this time is still unstable."
"Why do you care about that? We can't just go back now, can we?"
"I think we have to go back."
"What? What Potion did you take? This isn't like you at all!"
"Uh, I mean, we forgot to bring something."
"... You'd be better off if you had taken the wrong Potion."
Their enthusiasm was dampened just like that, and they returned empty-handed.
Xiao Deng didn't come out to chat with them.
Going back to sleep now to recharge his energy so he could find the oddity about Quirrell was the real priority.
He had an indescribable feeling that there was a big secret about Quirrell.
For a cultivator, the five senses are rarely unfounded.
Xiao Deng silently entered the Dormitory, changed his clothes, and fell into a peaceful sleep.
The night passed without incident.
The next morning, Xiao Deng didn't get up early on purpose.
Instead, he got up with his roommates and went to have breakfast together.
Just as Xiao Deng sat down, a round bottom sat down right next to him.
And it casually placed a chicken leg into Xiao Deng's bowl.
Oh? The little Lolita actually knows how to care for people?
Ron cleared his throat and pointed a finger at his own bowl.
"Ahem, um, Hermione, I need a chicken leg too."
Hermione didn't even look up: "Eat, eat, eat, that's all you know how to do."
"Have you learned Transfiguration yet? If you eat until you're like a pig, you'll become stupid."
Having long since experienced Hermione's nagging, he wasn't very surprised by her sarcasm.
"You gave one to Xiao Deng, isn't he afraid of becoming a pig?"
Harry immediately tugged at Ron, but it was too late.
Hermione finally looked up and glared at Ron.
"He needs nutrition; can you compare to him?"
"If you knew even a tenth of what he does, I wouldn't say anything about you."
"Besides, Xiao Deng teaches me Transfiguration, so what's wrong with giving him a chicken leg?"
Xiao Deng poked the chicken leg, a hint of a smile flashing in his eyes.
Giving a chicken leg is hardly a reward; she should give herself instead.
Neville shrank his neck; although he had a good relationship with Hermione, he was still a bit intimidated by her.
Harry kept his head down, suppressing the corners of his mouth, not daring to eat for fear that he would laugh if he opened his mouth.
Just as Ron was looking at Harry and Xiao Deng for help in his embarrassment, a bird call rang out.
"Chirp~"
A colossal creature spread its broad wings and flew in.
Everywhere it passed, it cast a shadow.
"My God!"
"By Headmaster Dumbledore's flowery socks, whose Owlis this?"
"It's too big, it looks taller than me."
Xiao Deng stood up slowly and extended his arm.
Harry saw this and looked at Xiao Deng; he had met Xiao Deng in Diagon Alley before.
This was Xiao Deng's Owl.
He hadn't felt much at the time, but now it seemed Xiao Deng had really good taste.
This Owl was simply too majestic!
Xiao Deng had already reached the Foundation Establishment stage, so the Giant Eagle standing on him was no longer a burden.
The Giant Eagle dropped what it was holding in its claws onto the table and landed on Xiao Deng's arm.
"That's Xiao Deng's Owl!"
"Xiao Deng? The genius at Transfiguration?"
"No wonder, a Gryffindor bird, that makes sense."
Xiao Deng placed the Giant Eagle on the ground and tossed it a piece of meat.
The Giant Eagle quickly grabbed it and swallowed it, letting out a joyful cry.
Xiao Deng turned around to look at the thing on the table.
Harry asked curiously: "Xiao Deng, what is this?"
Xiao Deng answered Harry's question while unwrapping the package.
"I bought some things."
"This thing has something to do with your family."
Hearing Xiao Deng say this, Harry became even more curious.
When Xiao Deng took it out, it was Hermione who called out.
"Sleekeazy's Hair Potion, the smoothing hair Potion!"
Harry was full of questions, looking at the thing in Xiao Deng's hand.
"What does this have to do with my family?"
Hermione immediately got excited, turning into a little science expert.
"Of course it has to do with your family, don't doubt it."
"You should read more history; it's recorded in the History of Magic books."
"Your ancestors invented many personal care products, and this smoothing Potion is one of them."
"The business should be managed by the Goblins and Gringotts now."
Although Harry was a bit surprised, he wasn't too shocked.
After all, when school started, he already knew he had quite a lot of inheritance.
Xiao Deng held the shampoo and, under Hermione's starry-eyed gaze, placed it in front of her.
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng in confusion, not understanding what he meant.
"This is for you, a gift."
Hermione opened her mouth wide, at a loss, feeling a bit flattered.
"No, no, I, I can't take this, it's too valuable."
Xiao Deng ignored Hermione's resistance and stuffed it directly into her hands.
"Dressing yourself up beautifully is what you should do, you know?"
"If you really want to repay me, just study hard."
"Okay?"
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng's sincere eyes, deeply moved.
"Thank you, I will!"
Hermione's thanks indicated that she had accepted Xiao Deng's gift.
But from the side came a sound that ruined the atmosphere.
"Slurp, tsk tsk, slurp~"
Both of them looked over, only to see Ron happily gnawing on the chicken leg in his hand.
"Oh, God!"
"Hurry up! Class is about to start."
Hermione rolled her eyes and signaled Xiao Deng to start eating.
Xiao Deng sent the Giant Eagle behind him away and turned around to start eating as well.
There were important things to deal with later.
Soon, the group finished their meal and immediately went to the classroom together.
However, as soon as Xiao Deng entered the classroom, he frowned deeply.
Chapter 23: The Remnant Soul on Quirrell
The friends around him couldn't help but cover their noses and mouths.
This stench of garlic was simply overwhelming, hitting them straight in the brain.
Even Hermione, who was the most diligent in her studies, frowned, covering her nose and mouth with a look of extreme reluctance.
But what made Xiao Deng frown wasn't the garlic smell that could knock someone out.
It was the scent of rot hidden beneath the smell of garlic.
It didn't smell like a corpse, nor did it smell like a living person.
If you called it rotten, it didn't seem to have decayed that thoroughly.
Quirrell also arrived in the classroom on time and began the lecture.
Just as Quirrell entered the classroom, Xiao Deng noticed a power on him that didn't belong to him.
"It feels like a remnant soul," Xiao Deng muttered to himself.
But the entity seemed to scan the classroom and immediately retreated.
It was as if it had encountered something and refused to come out again.
From this, one could judge that it was likely still in a recovery period.
The original strength of this remnant soul shouldn't have been weak, but how did it become so fragmented?
Xiao Deng didn't act rashly and pretended to listen to the lecture.
His spiritual sense was far superior to many, but in terms of actual strength, he was only at the Foundation Establishment stage.
Xiao Deng couldn't immediately determine if he could take down this remnant soul without getting hurt.
After all, his understanding of magic was limited to just a few classes.
His knowledge was too shallow, and Xiao Deng didn't want to take any risks.
If the opponent had some hidden trump card and caught him off guard, it would be too late to regret it.
It was better to be cautious; steady development was the path to safety.
After all, it was a remnant soul needing recovery, and he needed to develop.
He now had a slight understanding of the situation regarding Quirrell.
However, he was not satisfied at all—extremely dissatisfied, in fact—with the lecture Quirrell was giving.
As a Professor, how could he just read directly from the textbook during class?
There was no practical experience or expansion, not even a single bit mentioned.
If it came to memorizing books, who could beat him?
More than half of the books in the Library had already been stored in Xiao Deng's spiritual sense.
What about Quirrell's brain? Don't tell me it was all wrapped in garlic!
Wrapped in garlic? Garlic!
This garlic smell was used to cover up that trace of rot!
That remnant soul was indeed no good; it had been forced to use such a method to hide.
The moment the bell rang for the end of class, the young Wizards bolted out of the door as if their lives depended on it.
Quirrell watched this disrespectful behavior but didn't say anything.
Instead, a smile hung on the corner of his mouth as he watched the crowd leave in a hurry.
Xiao Deng looked back at Quirrell, and Quirrell even nodded at him.
He returned the gesture and left in a hurry.
Xiao Deng didn't have time to linger, as there were other classes to attend.
It was Professor Binns' class, for which Xiao Deng was mentally prepared.
History, after all, was typically boring.
But when he saw Professor Binns, Xiao Deng's mouth still twitched.
He didn't know which era this old guy Professor Binnscame from, but he was truly dedicated.
Was this any way for a person to live?
The Professors teaching the classes were all weird, ghostly creatures!
Just as Xiao Deng expected, Professor Binns was very professional, but his lecture was also very boring.
This caused Xiao Deng to fall into deep thought.
Wasn't Professor Binns equivalent to a living fossil?
Could he ask Professor Binns about some things?
Generally, a Child of Destiny wouldn't change their current situation easily.
If there were major changes, it meant the gears of fate had already started turning.
His destiny was beginning to take effect, which meant he was the center of the vortex of events.
So, what exactly would happen to Harry?
Who would become Harry's opponent?
Among his peers, they were all complete novices; it seemed there was no one who could be Harry's opponent.
Xiao Deng suddenly thought of Harry's title, "The Chosen One."
He had defeated the Dark Lord when he was just an infant.
So, had this Dark Lord died?
Under the heavy fog, Xiao Deng couldn't see clearly.
He still needed more information.
Xiao Deng didn't know what was wrong, but as he thought about it, he felt very sleepy.
He didn't know when he had slumped over on the desk and fallen asleep.
...
"Wake up, wake up!"
A female voice came to his ears, and Xiao Deng finally woke up from his dream.
Professor Binns was no longer standing at the podium.
The classroom was filled with the sounds of people just waking up.
"Class is over?"
Hermione rolled her eyes at Xiao Deng.
"You have the nerve to ask? You were sleeping so soundly, did you even listen to the lecture?"
Xiao Deng chuckled and took hold of Hermione's small hand.
"Lend me your class notes later so I can take a look."
Hermione pulled her hand away and turned her head.
"No, what were you doing earlier?"
"Harry, Ron, and Neville have all been led astray by you."
"Look, they were all sleeping!"
The little know-it-all kept nagging endlessly, waking up Harry and the others.
After getting up, these people didn't dare to say a word.
Only Xiao Deng was grinning as he asked Hermione for her class notes.
Xiao Deng stood up and looked at the two people behind who didn't dare to make a peep.
"Let's go eat; if we go too late, there won't be anything left."
Ron cheered first and dragged Harry and Xiao Dengtoward the door.
He didn't dare to provoke Hermione, fearing he would be nagged again.
However, Xiao Deng pulled Hermione, and she followed along.
At the dining table.
"Slurp~ tsk tsk~ slurp~"
"The chicken legs at Hogwarts are really delicious!"
Harry pulled Ron, and as soon as Ron lifted his head, he silently lowered it again.
Because he had run straight into Hermione's look of disgust.
The moment Ron lowered his head, Hermione picked up a chicken leg and put it on Xiao Deng's plate.
"Are you going to the Library after eating?"
Xiao Deng thought for a moment and shook his head.
"I can't go today; I need to find Hagrid for something."
Hermione opened her big eyes and glared at him; he had just said he wanted to read the notes, and now he had forgotten it in the blink of an eye!
"What, are you disappointed I'm not going to the Librarywith you?"
Hermione's face turned red as she defended herself:
"Someone just said they wanted to study and look at the notes; it seems that was fake too."
"Remember to miss me~"
"My memory isn't that good!"
"Really not going to miss me?"
"Get lost!"
"Alright!"
Xiao Deng had just finished eating, put down his cutlery, and ran away nimbly.
"Are you two going?"
Harry immediately shook his head: "I feel a bit tired today and want to rest."
Ron's head nodded repeatedly like a rattle-drum.
"Me too!"
Hermione kept a cold face, picked up her textbook, ignored the two of them, and stood up to leave.
Harry and Ron looked at each other and patted their chests with lingering fear.
Oh my mom, that was too scary for a young Wizard!
Xiao Deng naturally didn't know that it had almost turned into a battlefield behind him.
Not long after, Xiao Deng arrived next to the Forbidden Forest.
Just like last time, the tall trees blocked the sun directly.
The mysterious aura revealed inside was thought-provoking.
He didn't know if Hagrid was in his hut or not.
Just halfway there, an extremely penetrating voice came from behind.
"Hey, little Wizard over there, where are you going?"
Turning back, he looked at the Giant who was still a huge mass even from a long distance away.
The person who came was none other than Hagrid!
Xiao Deng's mouth twitched; he didn't know what he had eaten to grow up like that!
"Oh, Mr. Hagrid!"
"I came here specifically to find you!"
Hagrid came to Xiao Deng and looked carefully at the young Wizard in front of him.
"Oh, I remember you; you are friends with Harry."
"What do you need me for?"
Chapter 24: Why Can He Sleep?
Xiao Deng adjusted his Wizard robes and flashed a harmless smile.
"I know you are the gamekeeper and have a lot of knowledge about many magical creatures."
"I am also full of interest in magical creatures and would like to ask you to tell me about them."
Hagrid used to be the Professor for the Care of Magical Creatures class before he became the gamekeeper.
He loved magical creatures very much and was very knowledgeable about them.
However, it was rare for him to find like-minded friends in this regard.
Hearing Xiao Deng say that he liked magical creatures made him extremely happy.
He immediately invited Xiao Deng into his hut for a chat.
Time flew by, and soon it was late.
"Let's stop here for today. If you don't have class, you can come over and ask me."
"Generally speaking, I'm always here."
Xiao Deng bowed slightly to express his thanks.
"Thank you so much for explaining so much to me!"
Xiao Deng had indeed benefited a lot from this trip; what Hagrid explained was very useful, all derived from practical experience.
However, Xiao Deng did not ask about the Cerberus; that would have been too obvious.
The contact with Hagrid must not be broken!
Xiao Deng finally made it back to the Dormitory at the very last moment.
Harry was originally sitting on the bed, but he jumped up immediately.
"You're finally back. I was worried you wouldn't make it in time."
Xiao Deng shrugged to show there was nothing he could do.
"We chatted a bit late, and I almost forgot the time."
After chatting for a few more minutes, everyone gradually quieted down.
There didn't seem to be any need to go out for a night stroll today.
A bunch of problems remained unsolved, and going out again would just be staring at each other with wide eyes without any substantial progress.
Just as he settled his mind and was about to close his eyes, Xiao Deng opened them.
There was still something to do!
...
Xiao Deng slowly walked into the second-floor bathroom.
"My little concubine Myrtle, are you there?"
"My little concubine Myrtle..."
"Ah-er-er~ Ah~"
"Appearing in my face again, can you not scare people!"
Myrtle stood in the air with her arms crossed, her face slightly flushed.
"If you keep talking nonsense, I'll scare you again next time!"
Xiao Deng found a spot to sit down and shrugged.
"If you scare me, I won't come next time! I'll make you an abandoned ghost!"
Myrtle let out a cry and came before Xiao Deng.
"No!!!"
"You must come!"
Xiao Deng smiled slightly and replied: "Then you are my concubine ghost."
Myrtle turned around, not looking at Xiao Deng, appearing angry.
But Xiao Deng didn't speak either, and just like that, the bathroom quieted down.
In fact, Myrtle didn't even know what she was thinking.
Thinking back on it carefully, she was already dead, visible but untouchable.
This was just a title anyway, and besides, Xiao Deng was so handsome.
It was just that he seemed a bit cheeky.
Thinking of this, Myrtle wanted to laugh a little.
A gentle voice suddenly rang out in the bathroom.
"If you don't have anything to say, I'm going back."
"I sacrificed my sleeping time to come and chat with you."
Myrtle suddenly realized, that's right, Xiao Deng had sacrificed his sleeping time to come.
She didn't need to sleep, and she wouldn't die again anyway.
Seeing Xiao Deng preparing to get up, she immediately called out.
"Hey, don't go!"
Myrtle stood up, lowered her head, and fidgeted as she walked in front of Xiao Deng.
"Don't go, I, I'll agree to you, alright?"
She was already dead long ago; either way, it was just a title, and she couldn't do anything anyway.
Trading a title for a playmate she could chat with was acceptable.
Xiao Deng raised an eyebrow; he hadn't really expected Myrtle to agree.
He didn't expect her to actually agree, so Xiao Deng was in a good mood, his lips curling slightly.
"Come on, call me Master and let me hear it."
Myrtle suddenly turned around with her back to Xiao Deng, lowering her head and clasping her fingers tightly.
This was too embarrassing!
Myrtle looked back at Xiao Deng three times before slowly turning around and saying softly.
"Master."
"Hey, that's a good girl!"
Myrtle felt like she had embarrassed the ghosts.
Have you ever seen a ghost call a living person something like husband?
"It's about time, I should go back too."
"My little concubine Myrtle, see you next time."
Myrtle was still stunned, subconsciously replying mechanically.
"See you next time."
Xiao Deng was in a good mood, humming a tune as he returned to the Dormitory.
The Dormitory was still silent.
Not bad, time to sleep!
Not long after, Xiao Deng drifted off to sleep.
What surprised Xiao Deng was that he had actually entered a dream.
Since the senior sisters left his dreams, he hadn't entered any dreams.
The scene before him gradually emerged; it looked like a hotel in the Muggle world.
Looking to the side, Xiao Deng felt the speed of his blood flow increase.
Hermione was lying on the bed, wearing Wizard robes, her eyes half-closed, looking at Xiao Deng with a meaningful smile.
Why was this happening?
He had known Hermione for a while now, right? Why did she appear at this time?
Just as Xiao Deng was confused, Hermione, lying on the large bed, was already pulling at the fabric on her body.
At this time, who cared about the reasons?
Pouncing on her like a hungry wolf was the right thing to do!
The moment Xiao Deng moved, the cultivation technique immediately began to circulate within his body.
It seemed the ability to cultivate in dreams had also returned.
Hmm, the scale wasn't too big, but it was full of milky fragrance.
Not long after, the person in his arms began to whimper.
Although it was in a dream, it was incredibly real.
Today wasn't without words; it was a night of ah-ah!
Waking up early in the morning, Xiao Deng felt refreshed.
That girl could be described in one word: moist!
What surprised Xiao Deng even more was that the time flow in the dream world seemed different from reality.
After arriving at Hogwarts, he had been practicing hard, plus the high intensity in the dream.
He discovered that he had now reached the peak of Foundation Establishment, and a breakthrough was just around the corner.
Xiao Deng felt the circulation of spiritual energy in his body; in the dark, he had a feeling.
If he reached the Golden Core stage, the spells cast by the little Wizards at Hogwarts would be useless against him.
Harry, a child of destiny, was an exception; children of destiny sometimes transcended common sense.
Today was Transfiguration Class again, which was the most comfortable class for Xiao Deng.
Professor McGonagall was very tolerant of him.
After eating, a few of them went to the classroom together.
Professor McGonagall also arrived on time.
"Today, we will spend some time letting you practice turning matches."
"Afterwards, I will explain some new things."
Little Wizards usually need some time when they first start Transfiguration.
Once they master the essentials, they will get better at it; Professor McGonagall was not in a hurry at all.
Xiao Deng slowly closed his eyes, appearing to be resting, but actually, he had already secretly started cultivating.
Professor McGonagall saw this but did not disturb Xiao Deng.
After all, the things at this stage were indeed too boring for Xiao Deng.
Suddenly, a rough-voiced girl spoke up.
"Professor, why can the Hehuan Sect sleep?"
Xiao Deng slowly opened his eyes and looked at that girl.
She had a sturdy build, and her eyes held dissatisfaction.
Xiao Deng remembered that her name seemed to be Millicent Bulstrode.
The girl clamored and asked Professor McGonagall.
But Professor McGonagall did not speak, but instead looked at Xiao Deng.
Chapter 25: Professor McGonagall is Unhappy
"Bulstrode, do you know what you are doing?"
The speaker surprised Xiao Deng a little.
Malfoy's face was a bit dark, and he stared straight at Bulstrode.
Facing Malfoy, she was indeed a bit timid.
But now that it was out, she had no choice but to see it through to the end.
"I saw it just now; he was sleeping."
"Professor McGonagall, you wouldn't be shielding Gryffindor, would you?"
Xiao Deng looked at Professor McGonagall; she still didn't speak, but there was a hint of a smile in her eyes.
She gently lifted her chin. Xiao Deng couldn't help but chuckle; she wanted him to prove it!
Xiao Deng adjusted his Wizard robes and slowly stood up.
"Since you have asked with such sincerity, I shall tell you with great mercy."
Hearing this, Hermione rolled her eyes, but Malfoy's eyes lit up.
Weren't these words prepared just for him?
It was simply perfect!
Xiao Deng pulled out his wand and gave it a light wave.
The desk in front of Bulstrode immediately turned into the likeness of Professor McGonagall.
The young Wizards looked, then compared it to Professor McGonagall on the podium; it was exactly the same.
"Wow~"
The whole classroom was exclaiming!
The "Professor McGonagall" stood beside Bulstrode, looking rather angry, with her wand pointing at Bulstrode's head.
"Shouting in class, what kind of decorum is this?"
This gave Bulstrode a momentary illusion that it was the real Professor McGonagall.
"Mr. Malfoy, for defending a classmate, add ten thousand points!"
Malfoy, having been named, immediately felt very proud and looked at the surrounding young Wizards with a haughty expression.
He even gave Xiao Deng a thumbs up in passing.
The only one not very happy was probably Bulstrode.
With such impressive strength, Professor McGonagallmust have known.
Otherwise, she wouldn't have stayed silent!
Most importantly, Professor McGonagall wouldn't lower herself to her level.
But Malfoy might! Would she face retaliation from Malfoy?
Bulstrode was only considering this now.
Of course, there was another person whose face was a bit dark now.
Naturally, it was Professor McGonagall, who had been watching Xiao Deng's performance from the podium.
Didn't she tell this kid to transform into Albus?
Yet, the behavior Xiao Deng performed was something she had tacitly permitted.
And adding ten thousand points to Slytherin? How many points had she actually given?
Professor McGonagall rubbed her forehead; this kid was a bit infuriating!
Taking a deep breath to calm herself down, she cleared her throat.
The cheering in the classroom vanished instantly.
"Alright, Miss Bulstrode, do you have any other questions?"
While speaking, Professor McGonagall waved her wandlightly, and the "Professor McGonagall" turned back into a desk.
Huh?
He hadn't finished showing off yet!
Xiao Deng looked at Professor McGonagall, but the Professor didn't even glance at him.
Xiao Deng had to sit down silently.
His cultivation was interrupted, so Xiao Deng thought he would take a break and check Hermione's progress.
Hermione had been able to transform it before, but it wasn't very stable, working intermittently.
Finally, Hermione succeeded in transforming the match, and a joyful smile appeared on her face.
Xiao Deng was also very happy; he slapped his thigh and said, "Good!"
The surrounding classmates glanced at him and then quickly averted their eyes.
They didn't want to end up like Bulstrode.
Was the Malfoy family something to joke about? Who among the young Wizards' families wanted to specifically provoke the Malfoys!
Only that blockhead Bulstrode, knowing Malfoy's attitude, would still dare to cling to him.
Hermione turned her head, slapped Xiao Deng on the shoulder, and whispered angrily:
"What are you shouting for!"
Xiao Deng looked at Hermione, feeling somewhat innocent.
"You succeeded, and I'm happy for you. Is that wrong?"
Hermione pointed her wand at Xiao Deng.
"Then why did you slap your thigh? And so loudly!"
Xiao Deng chuckled: "It's just that I was happy and got carried away for a moment."
Hermione's small hand had already reached Xiao Deng's waist.
"If you're excited, slap your own thigh! Why! Slap! Mine!"
Hermione spat out the words one by one, putting some strength into it.
Xiao Deng winced in pain.
Professor McGonagall had long since noticed the commotion on Xiao Deng's side.
But she didn't intervene.
Seeing the expression on Xiao Deng's face, Professor McGonagall smiled in satisfaction.
It seemed there needed to be someone who could keep him in check.
Otherwise, with his talent, who else would be able to suppress him in the future?
Dealing with one foul-tempered bat was already enough; she couldn't have another one!
In this class, with Xiao Deng's guidance, Hermione's magicfor transforming the match had gradually stabilized.
Afterward, he helped Harry and Ron clear up their doubts, and their progress was also extremely rapid.
Professor McGonagall's class ended, and the young Wizards ran out excitedly.
Ron scratched his head, looking at the crowd in confusion.
"What's going on? Everyone seems so excited today?"
Hermione, holding her books and materials, walked with the four of them as they talked.
"I solemnly warn you all: no sleeping in class, especially you, Xiao Deng."
"Do you know how many points you've lost?"
Xiao Deng was just about to reply when he saw someone approaching.
"Hello, Principal!"
With Xiao Deng's reminder, the others realized and turned around in unison.
"Hello, Principal!"
Dumbledore looked at them with a chuckle.
"Oh, children, don't be nervous. I'm fine."
"I was just passing by and saw the commotion after class, so I came to see what was happening."
"And I see Miss Granger giving a lecture."
Hermione blushed slightly; it was somewhat embarrassing to be seen by the Principal.
"Don't be nervous. Very good, a new generation lioness!"
Xiao Deng's mouth twitched. Was this a compliment? What was the difference between this and calling her a tigress?
But Dumbledore's words piqued Hermione's curiosity.
"New generation? Lioness?"
"Then there's an older generation? I haven't noticed that in the History of Magic books."
"Who is the older generation?"
Dumbledore revealed a kind smile.
"Of course there is an older generation."
"Naturally, it is Professor McGonagall!"
"Don't look at Professor McGonagall's Animagus form as just a cat."
"Actually, she's as fierce as..."
Dumbledore was explaining to Xiao Deng and the others with great enthusiasm when a cold voice rang out behind him.
"Albus!"
"I don't recall you having the habit of speaking ill of people behind their backs?"
Dumbledore froze slightly, and beads of sweat couldn't help but break out on his forehead.
Without looking, he could imagine Professor McGonagall's dangerous image with her eyes half-squinted.
"Young Wizards, my grandmother is coming to Hogwartsto study."
"I must return to my office to eat some lemon sherbet."
He walked toward his office without even turning his head; he didn't look like a centenarian at all.
Professor McGonagall naturally didn't want to let him off and followed Dumbledore.
"Albus, don't think you can escape!"
"You explain this to me clearly!"
Hermione looked at Professor McGonagall's retreating figure with an expression of admiration.
Ron covered his eyes.
"Oh my god! A lioness is too scary!"
"I can't imagine..."
He was halfway through his sentence when he saw Hermione's gaze as she turned back.
Ron shivered in fear and immediately swallowed the words he wanted to say.
Harry looked at Ron and shook his head slightly.
It seemed only Ron's mouth belonged to Gryffindor.
To relieve the awkwardness, Ron forced a change of subject.
"You still haven't answered me: why are they so excited?"
Only Ron could pull off such an abrupt change of subject.
Xiao Deng smiled, revealing a gentle expression.
"There is a big event today!"
Hearing Xiao Deng say this, even Hermione stopped nagging and looked over with curiosity.
"Do you remember Mr. Filch?"
Chapter 26: Malfoy's Small Request
Ron was a bit confused.
"What does this have to do with Filch?"
Xiao Deng looked at the bustling corridor and spoke slowly.
"I went to a meeting regarding Filch earlier."
"It was originally the troublemaker's fault, but because of Filch's foolish actions, the situation reversed."
"Worried about things like collective complaints, we could only make Filch apologize publicly."
"Since it's a public apology, it naturally requires most people to be present."
"Holding a separate meeting just for a few minutes is making a mountain out of a molehill."
"Mealtimes are naturally the best time."
"As it happens, Filch was the one who caused trouble during mealtime."
"It can be considered a full circle!"
Xiao Deng's words left the person stunned, and they only snapped back to reality when Xiao Deng reminded them.
"Let's go, let's go watch the show."
When Xiao Deng and the others arrived at the Great Hall, it was already nearly full.
It seems there are quite a few people who want to see Filch make a fool of himself.
Xiao Deng smiled slightly and led the group to sit at the Gryffindor table.
Filch was seen looking back every few steps, at the Professors behind him.
The people sitting below watching the show didn't urge him; opportunities to see Filch get humiliated in public were rare.
After dawdling for a long time, he stood in the most prominent position and slowly took out the prepared manuscript.
No one cared about the content of the manuscript, naturally.
It was just that same old matter; the manuscript was just going through the motions.
But the strange expressions on Filch's old face would likely become the talk of the town for the next week.
Filch didn't spend long reading the manuscript, but it made him break out in a cold sweat.
His back was already soaked.
This feeling of every second dragging on like a year was really not pleasant at all.
Having finally finished reading the lines, he closed his eyes, bowed deeply, and then ran away.
An unprecedented burst of laughter erupted in the Great Hall during the meal.
Just then, Crabbe walked over.
"Our boss wants to see you about something."
Hermione immediately grabbed the corner of Xiao Deng's robe, and Xiao Deng patted Hermione's hand.
"It's fine, I'll be back in a moment."
Malfoy must have been asking for a favor, which is why he sent his sidekick to tell him.
If he were looking for trouble, that tsundere young master would have come himself.
Xiao Deng walked over and, without standing on ceremony, sat right down next to Malfoy.
Seeing Malfoy's untouched meal, he took the chicken leg from it, stuffed it into his mouth, and asked:
"What's the matter, so mysterious, that you had to make me come over?"
Crabbe immediately reprimanded him:
"How are you talking to our boss?"
Malfoy reached out to stop Crabbe from continuing.
Malfoy found that he didn't dislike Xiao Deng's casualness; it was completely different from the obedience of Crabbeand the others.
He had seen this way of interacting with Crabbe too many times before and was used to it.
But he seemed to prefer the way he interacted with Xiao Deng—a feeling without any burden.
So, when Xiao Deng picked up his chicken leg, he didn't get angry.
It was as if the two were very close; this subtle feeling was inexplicably comfortable.
Malfoy had rarely felt this way before.
"That... Hehuan Sect..."
"You know a lot of magic, even Harry... is almost being overshadowed by you."
Xiao Deng knew exactly what Malfoy wanted to say as soon as he heard it.
But for a young master like Malfoy to ask for help, it was somewhat difficult for him to save face.
To be able to call him over, he must have done a lot of mental preparation.
"You want to practice magic with me?"
Malfoy was the heir to his family, and the education he saw and heard was naturally stricter than that of ordinary people.
Not to mention his father, who had a million schemes in his heart.
Under such influence, Malfoy's abilities were not bad at all.
He immediately understood the meaning behind Xiao Deng's words; the way out offered was truly considerate.
He just wanted to learn magic with Xiao Deng, and Xiao Deng was tactful about it, which made the awkwardness in Malfoy's heart vanish completely.
Malfoy patted Xiao Deng's shoulder, extremely happy.
"Ah, yes, I just want to practice with you."
"How about this afternoon?"
Xiao Deng swallowed the food in his mouth and shook his head.
"This afternoon might not work."
"Filch's matter was just resolved, I might need to report to the Principal."
"Furthermore, I have an appointment with someone else; I can't stand them up, right?"
Malfoy might be arrogant, but he understood basic etiquette.
Keeping promises is a basic etiquette; naturally, he wouldn't let others break it.
If one breaks someone else's today, they might break their own tomorrow.
Malfoy could still calculate this much.
If it were broken, he would be very unhappy!
After all, this was a... friend he had finally made?
"Then are we..."
Malfoy said halfway, unable to help but glance at Xiao Deng.
"Of course, friends!"
Hearing Xiao Deng's reply made Malfoy grin.
"Then Potter..."
"He will become your friend too!"
"Today is indeed quite tight, let's do the weekend!"
"Study together on the weekend, if you have time."
Malfoy nodded immediately.
"Of course, I have time."
When Xiao Deng returned to the Gryffindor table, the trio was looking at him nervously.
"Relax, Malfoy just wants to be friends with us."
Ron asked in a low voice:
"Really? I heard at home that his father used to be a Death Eater."
Xiao Deng didn't care and took the chicken leg from Hermione's bowl.
"Hey, that..."
Hermione blushed, wanting to stop him, but it was too late.
She had taken a small bite of that chicken leg and placed it back in the bowl.
Xiao Deng actually picked it up and ate it directly.
Ron naturally didn't know and thought Hermione didn't want to give it to him.
"Eating a chicken leg of yours, such a fuss."
"If you want to eat, just take another one later!"
Hermione glared at Ron, and Ron immediately shut up.
"Ron, what you said is all in the past."
"Who doesn't make mistakes? It's good that things are stable now."
Regarding this, the little ones hadn't experienced it, so there wasn't much to talk about.
Harry didn't say much; with such a harmonious atmosphere, he was much happier eating.
"Alright, I'm done eating."
"I have things to do, so I'll leave first."
Hermione watched Xiao Deng's retreating figure, pouting and poking at the rice in her bowl.
As if she were poking Xiao Deng to vent her anger.
Harry thought Hermione was still holding a grudge about the chicken leg.
Suddenly, he had a flash of insight. He looked to the side and just happened to catch Ron's aggrieved look.
In that instant, they both understood what the other was thinking.
Hermione is really hard to deal with!
After leaving the Great Hall, Xiao Deng headed straight for the Forbidden Forest.
Dumbledore hadn't asked for Xiao Deng; it was just an excuse.
He had already stepped half a foot into the Golden Core stage; today, he was going to make a breakthrough.
Having entered the Forbidden Forest many times, Xiao Deng was already familiar with it.
The place from last time was quite good; it was remote and had few people or beasts.
Upon arriving, Xiao Deng sat cross-legged to adjust his state.
"Now is the time!"
Xiao Deng activated the Hehuan Sect's cultivation technique with all his might, his aura continuously climbing.
Spiritual energy began to gather around Xiao Deng, causing the surrounding trees to rustle.
Unconsciously, the aura of the Golden Core stage gradually spread out.
Chapter 27: Preparing to Enter the Chamber of Secrets
Xiao Deng slowly opened his eyes and looked at the sky.
This bizarre world only has one good thing: places the Heavenly Dao cannot reach.
There are no Heavenly Tribulations for advancement, so I can avoid some potential dangers when improving my strength in the future.
Xiao Deng sensed that after reaching the Golden Core stage, his spiritual sense had become much more intense.
It was also much handier to use.
His physique had also undergone tremendous changes.
If I just stood here and let the freshmen hit me, I probably wouldn't even get hurt.
He stood up and stretched.
His bones made a crackling sound, which felt incredibly refreshing.
Should I find a living creature to test my strength?
Thinking of this, Xiao Deng felt it was very necessary.
His figure instantly drifted toward the depths of the forest.
Suddenly, Xiao Deng felt a sense of alarm.
Not far away, a large snake about three meters long appeared.
It stood up and kept flicking its tongue.
Xiao Deng stood where he was, and he realized he could actually understand the signals the snake was sending.
It was warning him to stay away.
"Little snake, I don't mean anything else, I just want to find someone, uh no..."
"It doesn't matter if it's a person or not, let's have a fight."
The snake didn't seem to understand Xiao Deng's words and still showed no reaction.
But seeing that Xiao Deng hadn't left, it immediately displayed an offensive posture.
With a spring, it lunged at Xiao Deng.
In his previous life, Xiao Deng had dealt with countless demonic beasts.
Snakes either constrict or use poison; there rarely appeared a third method.
The opponent lunging over was nothing more than an attempt to wrap around him.
Xiao Deng's figure was more agile than the little snake imagined, and he kicked out.
He kicked the snake directly in its seven-inch spot, sending it flying back more than ten meters.
When the little snake got up again, there was fear in its eyes as it looked at Xiao Deng.
But unexpectedly, this human turned and walked away.
What was the meaning of this? He ran away after winning?
He came here just to beat me up? This is too much bullying for a snake!
But... I can't beat him, forget it, I'll drag my injured body back to heal.
Xiao Deng was in a good mood and had a preliminary understanding of his own strength.
He didn't use lethal force; the snake would recover in about a week.
Xiao Deng changed direction and walked toward Hagrid's hut; Cerberus could not be dealt with by force.
Since it was a school arrangement, naturally he couldn't make too much of a commotion; Hogwarts' property still needed to be protected.
If he could find a way to suppress Cerberus without any effort, why not?
So, after talking with Hagrid, Xiao Deng prepared some fine wine for him.
"Knock, knock, knock~"
Xiao Deng took the wine out of his spatial ring and knocked on Hagrid's door, and a rough voice came from inside.
"Who is it?"
"Mr. Hagrid, it's me!"
The door opened, and seeing Xiao Deng, Hagrid's expression visibly showed joy.
"Come in, come in quickly!"
Xiao Deng entered the hut amidst Hagrid's welcome.
"I brought you some wine today, have a taste."
Hagrid's eyes instantly lit up.
"Why go to this trouble? Even if you didn't bring wine, I would still explain magical creatures to you."
Xiao Deng waved his hand and sat down slowly on a stool.
"You like it, and making you happy, isn't that what I should do?"
Hagrid patted Xiao Deng on the shoulder.
Xiao Deng felt immense pressure; did Hagrid have any idea about his own strength?
If he hadn't reached the Golden Core stage, that slap could have sent him spinning in place three times.
Hagrid was very happy to accept Xiao Deng's wine.
"I like your personality, it's just a pity you can't drink, otherwise it would be a very refreshing thing."
Xiao Deng pointed to one of the bottles.
"This is fruit juice, let's clink glasses all the same."
"I'll definitely drink with you in the future!"
These words sounded comforting, and Hagrid burst into laughter.
"Hahaha, good! Cheers!"
"Let me tell you more about these magical creatures..."
After drinking, Hagrid became more talkative.
Before he knew it, it was late.
Xiao Deng slowly walked out of Hagrid's hut.
He looked back at the hut, the corners of his mouth curled up, and then he headed toward the Dormitory.
Tonight, things were likely set.
Without any extra movements, he went straight back to the Dormitory.
Harry looked at Xiao Deng and couldn't help but give a thumbs up.
"You're really amazing, you manage to get back to the Dormitory just in time every time."
"If it were Ron, Gryffindor would probably have all its points deducted by him."
Ron looked at Harry with a confused expression.
No, brother, you're starting on me already?
"Why are you talking about me? Why don't you talk about Neville?"
Neville scratched his head and tilted his head to look at Ron.
"Ron, I have a bad memory, I'm not stupid enough to miss the time."
"Hahaha hahaha~"
The Dormitory immediately erupted in laughter, and Roncovered himself with his quilt, not wanting to speak.
Not long after, Xiao Deng knew it was time for him to set off.
Putting on his night-traveling clothes, Xiao Deng left the Dormitory.
He didn't go to find Myrtle; this matter might involve some major events, so it was better the fewer people who knew, the better.
Familiar with the path, he snuck to the door of the Chamber of Secrets on the Fourth Floor.
"Alohomora!"
Xiao Deng flashed inside directly. As soon as he turned around, six eyes stared straight at him.
Xiao Deng wasn't panicked at all; he threw out three pieces of meat, and Cerberus immediately began to wag its tail.
Watching it eat with gusto, Xiao Deng silently took out a zither and placed it on the open ground nearby.
The zither had been enchanted with magic; as soon as it was taken out, it began to emit crisp music.
Cerberus's eyelids began to fight.
When it completely collapsed, it still had meat in its mouth.
Xiao Deng walked slowly toward the entrance.
But it was pitch black inside. After thinking about it, he still jumped down lightly.
Xiao Deng landed lightly on the ground and looked around; it wasn't very deep.
He spread his spiritual sense, and the scene below was immediately reflected in his mind.
He saw a large amount of long, slowly wriggling things below.
"Is this... Devils Snare?"
Such a large area of Devils Snare, who set it up, going to such great lengths.
Those who can't recognize this plant probably won't come looking for any "treasures" anyway.
Those who can recognize this plant naturally won't be afraid of this thing.
After all, the weaknesses of this bizarre thing are too obvious.
"Lumos!"
Xiao Deng walked forward slowly, but the Devils Snarekept retreating, and a vacuum area appeared around Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng didn't stop and kept moving forward.
From afar, he saw a primitive, ancient door at the end.
Xiao Deng's spiritual sense immediately captured the magical aura on the door.
This was a door that had been enchanted with magic.
He looked up and saw several small birds flying in the air.
Birds?
Looking closely, these weren't birds at all; they were keys with wings.
Find the accurate one among so many little birds?
Xiao Deng curled his lips; if it were someone else, they might really have to spend some effort.
But in front of his spiritual sense, everything was like it was transparent.
Only one key in the middle radiated a different magical power.
"Accio: Key, come to me!"
The locked-on key flew toward Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng passed this level easily.
Only now, Xiao Deng looked at the thing in front of him with a strange expression.
What kind of bizarre thinking did the person who set up these levels have?
Wizard's Chess!
How does this look like anything but playing house!