Chapter 46: Professor McGonagall's Headache
Xiao Deng wiped his mouth elegantly; there was no one left by his side.
Everyone was in a rush to head to the Headmasters Office, only Xiao Deng wasn't worried in the slightest.
He rose slowly and walked out of the Great Hall.
Whispers began to spread behind him.
"Is he really a first-year?"
"He knows so many Spells, he must be a pure-blood, right?"
"If you were a pure-blood, would you know them?"
"Uh..."
"Sister, don't you think Xiao is handsome and strong?"
"Does that even need thinking? Has your vision been polluted by Filch?"
"Aren't you ashamed? How old is he, and how old are you? You still want to rob the cradle?"
"Well, do you want to or not?"
"I do!"
"Shameless!"
"Rival in love, draw your wand!"
"You guys have no foresight, no vision."
"So many people like the little junior; there are too many rivals."
"If it were me, I'd follow him for a lifetime as a servant. Even being favored by him occasionally would be happiness enough."
"You're badass."
"I'll take your word for it. If that were really the case, I'd want to bear him seven sons."
"..."
Xiao Deng arrived at Dumbledore's office.
There were two groups of people in the office; one group was little Wizards, and the other was also little Wizards.
Seeing Xiao Deng enter, Professor McGonagall frowned.
"Xiao Deng, you are the last one to arrive. Your sense of time needs improvement."
Xiao Deng bowed slightly, revealing a gentle smile.
"Professor McGonagall, didn't you tell us to come over once we finished eating?"
"I didn't do anything else during that time; I really came straight over after eating."
"I believe I have met your requirements."
Professor McGonagall's expression faltered; she had indeed said that.
"But you are still the last one to arrive."
Xiao Deng smiled again, which made Professor McGonagall's hair stand on end.
"With so many little Wizards present, there will always be a first and a last."
"This is an objective fact. Headmaster Dumbledore's door isn't wide enough for so many people to enter at the same time."
Professor McGonagall felt a bit irritable and wanted to swipe at him, but what he said had some logic to it.
This ability to cause trouble was on par with Peeves!
"Alright, alright, tell me, what happened?"
First, Malfoy came out to denounce the arrogant attitude of Slytherin.
They were openly causing trouble for him in public; what was wrong with him just finding someone to play with?
Subsequently, Slytherin and Gryffindor accused each other of using magic against them.
Amidst the argument, the three of them gradually understood the ins and outs of the matter.
Then Professor McGonagall looked at Xiao Deng.
"Then what about you?"
They already knew what happened, they just wanted to hear what Xiao Deng had to say.
Xiao Deng looked around at the people, but his eyes did not land on Dumbledore, which made Dumbledorebreathe a sigh of relief.
What would he do if Xiao Deng asked for a lemon sherbetin front of so many people?
"Alright, then I'll tell my side."
As soon as he finished speaking, Xiao Deng changed his expression to one of extreme grievance.
"Professors, I've suffered so much!"
"I just wanted to have a good meal."
"The moment I opened the door, I was shocked!"
"It was all brilliant and dazzling, crackling and popping."
"I was just minding my own business."
"It was a total mess inside!"
"It was like a scene of gongs and drums, firecrackers, waving flags, and a sea of people."
Even Snape's mouth twitched.
You act in my office, and you act in front of dozens of people in Dumbledore's office.
Do you really think everyone else is a fool?
The more Professor McGonagall listened, the darker her face became; he was painting himself as The Chosen One.
"I appeared, and the light appeared!"
"Then I quelled all the chaos and suppressed all the dissent."
"Giving the little Wizards an environment to eat in peace, and restoring Hogwarts to a clear and bright state!"
Professor McGonagall finally couldn't take it anymore.
"Fine, fine, stop talking, I have a headache."
Did the Quill of Acceptance drink too much ink? How did it find such a headache-inducing little Wizard?
"Professor McGonagall, I haven't finished..."
"Alright, that's enough, I know, I know!"
Watching Professor McGonagall's grumpy cat appearance, Dumbledore was blooming with joy inside.
But he couldn't let her know he was happy.
He took a lemon sherbet out of the drawer, popped it into his mouth, and couldn't help but smile.
A slightly cold voice rang out.
"Albus, what are you smiling at?"
Dumbledore slowly raised his head and gestured with his hand.
"As you can see, I am eating a lemon sherbet. You know I like sweets."
Professor McGonagall finally calmed her emotions and became serious.
"Slytherin and Gryffindor fought; one hundred points deducted from each."
"In view of Mr. Hehuan's efforts to stop the fight, ten points are added to Gryffindor."
The moment Professor McGonagall finished speaking, Xiao Deng immediately felt a cold gaze, like a snake, looking at him.
No, the Slytherin people started the trouble, why are you glaring at me?
Xiao Deng did not show weakness and glared back.
Snape rolled his eyes at Xiao Deng without a trace and swept a glance over Harry.
Xiao Deng understood; that look said "childish," as arrogant as The Chosen One.
Seeing that neither Dumbledore nor Snape had any objections, Professor McGonagall shooed them away.
"Alright, this matter ends here."
"Go back!"
Everyone left the Headmasters Office dejectedly.
"What are we going to do? Won't Professor Snape eat us alive?"
"It won't be that easy; he'll turn us into a Potion."
"Xiao Deng's level is so high; he gets points in class every day."
"Almost all the Professors like him."
"He's not afraid of losing a hundred points at all."
"So what exactly are you trying to say?"
"I mean, even if we win the next Quidditch match, it's useless."
"The added points will still be far behind the other three houses."
"Moreover, the Quidditch trophy has been in Professor McGonagall's office for years."
"The probability of beating Gryffindor is very small."
"There's no hope for the House Cup at all."
"Do you think Professor Snape will turn you into a Potion!"
These analyses made the Slytherins even more depressed.
Dumbledore's office.
"You didn't leave? What is it now?" Professor McGonagallasked, pinching the bridge of her nose.
"Just that, during this time, Filch came to the Great Hallcovered in dung again."
Even though she had seen Filch go to the Great Hall with her own eyes, hearing the news again still made Professor McGonagall's temples throb.
"Write another detention report."
"It's nothing to do with you, you go back too!"
After Xiao Deng left, Professor McGonagall slowly turned around.
"Severus, what were you happy about just now?"
"No, Professor McGonagall, I wasn't."
Professor McGonagall glanced at Snape. You are my student; do you think I don't know you?
But feeling too tired, Professor McGonagall didn't want to say another word and slowly sat down on her chair.
Dumbledore finally stood up from his seat.
"You have all seen it; Xiao Deng's ability is unquestionable."
"He is even on par with that person from a few years ago."
"I think we can cultivate him."
Chapter 47: Because Filch is Compensating with a Banquet
"His ability to cause trouble is almost catching up to that one!"
Clearly, Professor McGonagall was still angry.
Dumbledore shook his head and looked at Snape.
"Dumbledore, if nothing else, we must first make him correct his self-righteous and arrogant habits."
Seeing that both of them seemed to be emotional, he knew that nothing could be accomplished today.
But it didn't matter; Xiao Deng was still young, and there would be plenty of time in the future.
"Let's put this matter aside for now and talk about it later."
"Now, I want to discuss a matter of extreme seriousness, so prepare yourselves."
Professor McGonagall looked up, exchanged a glance with Snape, and then both looked at Dumbledore.
"Regarding the Unicorn incident that night, Xiao Deng has provided a clue."
"He has already clashed with the person who eats flesh and drinks blood."
Professor McGonagall stood up abruptly.
"Albus, why didn't you say something sooner?"
"Is he injured?"
"Right, he just said he wanted a good meal; that might be a sign of high mental stress."
"He is just a child!"
"His emotions earlier might not have been to provoke anyone, but a genuine expression."
"Why didn't I listen carefully? I even criticized him."
A look of regret appeared on Professor McGonagall's face.
Hearing Professor McGonagall say this, Dumbledoresuddenly thought of something.
"Minerva, the other day when Xiao Deng asked me for a lemon sherbet, was it the same situation?"
Professor McGonagall stared blankly at Dumbledore.
"Albus, has being Principal made you muddled?"
"Can't you see such an obvious signal for help?"
Dumbledore felt a bit embarrassed by what Professor McGonagall said.
He hadn't thought in that direction at the time, as Xiao Deng had seemed to be in a good state.
Snape watched their analysis, going from disbelief to growing suspicion.
Could that little brat really be under that much mental stress?
When he comes over to help in a couple of days, I'll have him brew a few extra batches of Potion to distract him.
"Dumbledore, let's get back to the point; all that is in the past."
Dumbledore nodded and said seriously:
"After the two clashed, since Xiao Deng cast Stupefy first, the man was knocked down, but then he actually stood up again."
"The most important thing is that Xiao Deng said that person was..."
"Quirrell!"
Both Professor McGonagall and Snape stared at Dumbledore.
"Albus, is this... certain?"
Dumbledore didn't speak, but simply ate another lemon sherbet.
And Snape, as a Potion master, thought of much more.
That is, Unicorn blood can bring the dead back to life.
Although it is rumored that one will be cursed, that person shouldn't be afraid of such curses.
Could it really have something to do with him?
"There is no substantial evidence yet, but you should all be extra careful."
"Also, pay attention to the safety of the young Wizards."
"At the same time, we must not alert the enemy."
Dumbledore and Snape exchanged a glance.
This was not just a reminder to Professor McGonagall, but also a secret instruction to Snape.
As soon as Xiao Deng and his group came out, Roncomplained.
"Xiao Deng, if you wanted to tie people up, couldn't you have just tied up the Slytherin? Why tie us up?"
Hearing this, Malfoy was displeased.
"Whether you're tied up or not makes no difference to the overall battlefield."
"You..."
"Alright, alright, if I had favored one side, who knows what kind of anger Professor McGonagall would have felt today."
Everyone nodded; that was indeed the case. If Xiao Denghadn't intervened, who knows what might have happened.
Hermione's eyes were sparkling as she looked at Xiao Deng.
"Xiao Deng, your magic control is really impressive."
"With so many people, and such a large range, I'm afraid there are few, even among the upper years, who could do that."
Ron frowned: "Hermione, what are you muttering about?"
"I only know that Xiao Deng is awesome."
As soon as he finished speaking, Malfoy's scoff was heard.
"Uncultured. Weasley, you'd better read more books."
"You've almost lost all the face of pure-blood families."
"Malfoy, you're talking nonsense."
Xiao Deng interjected at the right moment: "If you two start fighting again, it won't be as simple as losing a few points."
Hearing this, the two finally quieted down.
"As for... the teaching of Spells, do you still want to continue?"
"I respect your decision."
Hermione likely understood Xiao Deng the best among them all.
She immediately raised her hand in agreement; she wanted to improve.
Malfoy rolled his eyes at the side; truly, the wife follows the husband.
But after witnessing Xiao Deng's strength, he had completely accepted him.
So he also expressed his willingness to continue learning.
Harry had a bit of a hero-worship for Xiao Deng, which had existed since they boarded the train.
Now, he wanted a life where he was in control, and he needed to become stronger, so naturally, he agreed too.
Only Ron shivered and asked:
"What if I encounter the monster that eats flesh and drinks blood?"
Xiao Deng revealed a gentle smile and patted Ron's shoulder.
"What to do?"
"Of course, we'll hold a grand funeral, and I'll even tell your two brothers."
"I believe they will set off some beautiful fireworks for you."
"Hahahaha~"
Among the laughter of the group, Malfoy's voice was the loudest.
"If Malfoy is going, how can I not go? I was just worried!"
Xiao Deng waved his hand.
"Alright, go to class when you should, and study when you should."
The group gradually dispersed, and Xiao Deng fell into deep thought.
If Quirrell is the one eating the Unicorn, could he be Harry's enemy?
I once heard Hagrid say that if Unicorn blood is not given willingly, it carries a curse.
But Quirrell, despite the taboo, is eating and drinking it; I never realized he was such a glutton before.
But he hasn't seen much of the world, neither frying, boiling, nor steaming; he doesn't choose any of them.
According to the function of the Unicorn, it is highly likely to prepare for the remnant soul on him.
Why does it sound a bit like a demonic cultivator?
Xiao Deng didn't think too much; after class, he planned to go to Hagrid's to check on the Unicorn.
Before he had walked a few steps, he was stopped by Hermione.
"Something up?"
Hermione took a deep breath; she hadn't even settled the score with him for tying her up, and this was his attitude!
She forced herself to calm down.
"You really don't care about anything!"
"A notice was posted; everyone is to gather for the meal later."
"Filch will make another apology."
"To compensate for the students' losses, a banquet is being held; eat to your heart's content."
Xiao Deng showed a look of sudden realization.
"You should have said so earlier; if you had said so earlier, I would have known. How would I know if you didn't say anything?"
"Say that again!"
"Hermione is a great beauty!"
Hermione huffed and turned back to the Dormitory, planning to change her clothes.
Harry and Ron hid behind Xiao Deng and exchanged a glance.
Hermione is really difficult to deal with!
Xiao Deng glanced at Harry and Ron.
"Then let's go to the banquet."
When the three of them arrived at the Great Hall, nothing had started yet.
The young Wizards were sitting scattered in their seats.
The Professors and the house-elves were busy tidying up the scene.
Xiao Deng suddenly felt a bit amused.
This is the second time this has happened with Filch, and Dumbledore can still keep him.
What a good temper!
Chapter 48: Your Heart is Yellow
Xiao Deng waved and sat down with a few others.
Not long after, the Professors also filed into the hall.
It was evident that some Professors were still somewhat dissatisfied because of the incident with Filch.
After the Professors were seated, most of the young Wizards below had arrived as well.
Harry patted Xiao Deng.
"What's going on with Hermione? She's still not here?"
Xiao Deng shrugged and spread his hands.
"Maybe she ran into a Troll while using the bathroom and was scared to tears."
Ron burst out laughing.
"It's a good thing Hermione isn't here; if she heard that, she'd definitely hit you again."
"Why do you think I didn't hear it?"
A slightly cold voice sounded from behind Ron.
Ron felt his hair stand on end and immediately covered his mouth.
"Xiao Deng said that, not me."
Xiao Deng looked at Ron, feeling frustrated by his lack of backbone.
Why did you sell me out?
"Don't try to shift the blame; you're no better yourself."
Hermione came to Xiao Deng's side and slowly lowered her rounded bottom onto the stool.
Seeing Xiao Deng looking at her, she blushed and rolled her eyes at him.
Others might not know what Xiao Deng meant, but she knew all too well.
He was secretly mocking her again about whether she had wiped after using the bathroom back then.
Ignoring Xiao Deng, she turned her head to look at the Professors' table.
Dumbledore had already stood up by this time.
"Quiet!"
"Due to Mr. Filch's mistake, many young Wizards have suffered psychological trauma."
"Mr. Filch feels deeply ashamed and has specifically requested to conduct a self-reflection before the school."
...
These polite formalities were just something to listen to; no one would take them seriously.
Filch stood in the center once again and took out the prepared script to read.
Xiao Deng shook his head; it lacked originality and was too boring.
Just at this moment, an Owl flew in from outside.
An intact envelope landed on the table in front of Dumbledore.
Dumbledore felt a jolt in his heart.
But down in the audience, Xiao Deng's eyes lit up immediately.
A letter at a time like this was too sensitive.
No way, no way, it couldn't be a Howler, could it!
Dumbledore opened the envelope with a blank expression.
The envelope immediately flew up.
"Damn it..."
"Oh, it's Headmaster Dumbledore. I greet you and all the Professors."
"May I ask where Filch is?"
Dumbledore really didn't want to speak, but he answered anyway.
"He is behind you."
The letter turned around and finally saw him standing in the center reading his self-reflection.
It zoomed over, the letter's expression ferocious.
"Filch, I heard you entered the Great Hall covered in excrement?"
"Is your brain filled with Troll armpit hair?"
"And not just once; even a Troll wouldn't take a dump while eating."
"Tell me, what kind of species are you!!!"
The Howler returned to Dumbledore's side.
"I hope the Headmaster can manage him."
After saying this, it landed on the table.
Dumbledore's expression was somewhat unpleasant.
Although the sender's attitude toward him was very good, it was clear that they were very angry at Filch.
And Filch's expression was even worse; that little brat had really called it.
A parent had actually come to complain; he simply dared not imagine the consequences.
"Filch!"
Hearing someone call him, he looked over instinctively.
He saw Dumbledore looking at him sternly.
"I hope you behave yourself."
Filch looked dejected; this was Dumbledore's advice, and also a warning.
If there were a next time, it might really be as that little brat had said.
Filch looked listless and nodded in agreement.
Immediately after, Dumbledore announced the start of the feast.
Just as Xiao Deng reached his hand toward the pumpkin juice, it was slapped away by Hermione.
"Don't even think about it!"
Accompanied by a massive eye-roll.
Xiao Deng was not embarrassed and calmly switched to eating something else.
While eating, Xiao Deng's spiritual sense had already expanded outward.
On the Professors' table.
Quirrell's eyes darted around, trying to find the person who had attacked him that night.
In the darkness, he hadn't clearly seen who had hit him at all.
That magic was fast and accurate; it was highly likely to be a Professor.
But there were quite a few Professors at Hogwarts, and pinpointing one person was quite difficult.
First, rule out Dumbledore; if it were Dumbledore, even with the Master present, he probably wouldn't have been able to escape.
But he didn't know that his actions were already within Xiao Deng's line of sight.
Xiao Deng smiled slightly; he most likely couldn't guess that the one who hit him was just a young Wizard.
Quirrell couldn't figure anything out, so he could only pretend to take a sip of pumpkin juice first.
Perhaps it was a lingering effect of the Stupefy, as it took him three tries to steadily align the cup to drink the pumpkin juice.
After eating a few bites, Quirrell stood up and left the Professors' table.
Snape watched Quirrell leave, and Dumbledore shook his head slightly.
Snape's body slowly relaxed, and he didn't follow.
And now was not a good time for surveillance; following directly would be too obvious.
Everyone was eating in the Great Hall now, and Quirrellcouldn't harm anyone.
As for the Fourth Floor, don't even think about it; he was still in an injured state and probably wouldn't go.
If he really went, the Cerberus would teach him a lesson.
Seeing that Quirrell had left, there was nothing left to observe.
Little Hermione still wasn't paying much attention to him, which was slightly boring.
"You guys eat; I'm going out for a stroll."
Ron asked hurriedly, "So many chicken legs, aren't you going to eat them?"
Xiao Deng adjusted his clothes and revealed a gentle smile.
"It's fine if you guys eat; I'm just going out for a walk."
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng's back, a trace of suspicion appearing in her eyes.
Could it be that her attitude was too bad?
Did she make him angry?
But he was a bit excessive to begin with! How could she be blamed!
After leaving, Xiao Deng didn't go for a stroll as he had said; instead, he headed straight for Hagrid's hut.
Hagrid was also eating at the feast, so he didn't go to knock on the door.
He flashed behind the hut, where there was an open space.
Xiao Deng arrived at the clearing, and the large Unicornimmediately lifted its head cautiously.
Seeing it was Xiao Deng, its eyes softened, and the look it gave him was full of gratitude.
The Unicorn's body was still somewhat weak, and Xiao Deng quickly stopped it.
"Don't, just stay lying down."
"I just came to see how your recovery is going."
As he spoke, Xiao Deng took the opportunity to try and reach out to pet the Unicorn's fur.
But the Unicorn instinctively dodged, which made Xiao Deng pause.
"No, buddy, I saved you, can't I even pet you?"
"You are a bit dirty."
"My hands aren't..."
"Wait a minute, you can use telepathy?"
The Unicorn's voice appeared directly in Xiao Deng's mind, which surprised him.
"Yes!"
"Back to the point, my hands aren't dirty!"
"Your heart is not pure! Also, I am female, don't call me buddy!"
Xiao Deng's expression darkened; females were just hard to talk to; he had just suffered a setback in front of another female earlier.
"People say that saving a life is better than building a seven-story pagoda."
"I saved you, isn't my heart righteous enough?"
"Others' hearts are red or black, but your heart... is yellow."
Chapter 49: Fighting Quirrell Again
Xiao Deng's face had turned pitch black.
This Unicorn really didn't understand social etiquette; didn't it know that when you hit someone, you shouldn't hit them in the face?
And to think he had fought Quirrell for her sake.
Watching Xiao Deng's aggrieved expression, the Unicornactually revealed a human-like smile.
Xiao Deng sat on the ground, looking at its soft fur, still really wanting to pet it!
"Big Sister Unicorn, would you let me pet you just once?"
"What did you call me?"
"You're a female, I can't call you brother, can I?"
"Besides, you already have a child, I can't exactly call you little sister, can I?"
The Unicorn felt its face getting hot; why was this human so strange?
The Unicorn closed its eyes and ignored Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng was so annoyed he gritted his teeth; was this a unique skill that all females possessed?
"Brother, Brother, pet my fur."
A slightly childish voice came over.
The little Unicorn happily hopped over to Xiao Deng's side, circling around him.
The Unicorn beside them opened its eyes instantly, staring fixedly at Xiao Deng.
Now, in the eyes of the big Unicorn, Xiao Deng was no different from a hooligan.
Xiao Deng chuckled and hugged the little Unicorn.
It had to be said, without any cleaning, the Unicorn's fur was smooth, beautiful, and free of dust.
"Big Sister, you know, I've held you, and now I'm holding your daughter, does this count as..."
"Shut up!"
The big Unicorn felt its face getting even hotter.
Whatever this human was babbling about, it couldn't understand a word!
It had never heard such lewd words in its entire life; it would rather die!
Just as Xiao Deng was still petting the beast, his brows furrowed slightly.
The big Unicorn immediately noticed the change in Xiao Deng's mood.
Although this human was strange, relatively speaking, he was quite reliable.
Anything that could make him frown wouldn't be a small matter.
"What's wrong?"
Xiao Deng slowly put down the little Unicorn and looked at the big Unicorn.
"Someone is coming!"
"However... I might need you to be the bait."
The Unicorn was intelligent and understood his meaning immediately.
It nodded to show agreement.
Xiao Deng flashed away and found a place to hide.
Staring intently at the intruder, Xiao Deng's divine sense had long since recognized Quirrell.
He just hadn't expected him to be so bold, committing a crime right under their noses.
Just how badly injured was that remnant soul to make him so impatient?
The big Unicorn recognized the person at a glance; it was the same person who had attacked it that night.
It was very weak right now and could only rely on Xiao Deng to drive him away again.
Seeing the Unicorn, Quirrell's eyes radiated a look of longing.
A smile appeared on the corner of his mouth, and he rubbed his hands together as he slowly approached the Unicorn.
"Come on, hurry up! If you don't come, I won't be drained to death, I'll be stunk to death!"
Xiao Deng smiled slightly. In the end, didn't you still have to beg me?
"Stupefy!"
The happy smile still lingered on Quirrell's face as he fell to the ground with a thud.
The moment he hit the ground, thick black mist rose from Quirrell's body, and Quirrell actually stood back up.
He turned and ran, his limbs moving somewhat discordantly.
This time Xiao Deng saw clearly; Quirrell had indeed been hit.
It was just that the remnant soul was possessing Quirrell's body, controlling it to run away.
Xiao Deng did not pursue.
He wasn't sure if Dumbledore knew about this thing.
Nor did he know if Dumbledore could handle this remnant soul.
Xiao Deng slowly walked out from the shadows.
"Are you alright?"
"I... I'm fine."
The Unicorn felt a bit embarrassed; just a moment ago it had scolded him and refused to let him pet it.
Now he had saved it again, and the previous favor hadn't even been repaid yet.
The debt was just piling up!
The little Unicorn jumped out and happily hopped around Xiao Deng.
"Brother, you're so amazing!"
"You drove the bad guy away in one hit, and saved Mommy and me."
The Unicorn gave its child a reproachful look.
Why bring that up now!
Xiao Deng pondered for a moment.
"How about I give you names?"
"Otherwise, 'Big Unicorn', 'Little Unicorn' is quite troublesome to call."
"Yay, yay!"
Seeing that the big Unicorn didn't object, Xiao Deng spoke up.
"You shall be called Big White, and the little one shall be called Little White."
The Unicorn thought about it; the names were simple, easy to understand, and easy to remember, so that would do.
"Brother, Brother, from now on I'm Little White."
Xiao Deng smiled and patted Little White's head.
"That's right."
"But I have to go now."
"The other party was injured by me, so I estimate they won't be coming back for a while."
"Both times I attacked, it was when they were unaware."
"So I need to go back quickly, otherwise it'll be easy for them to discover my identity."
After speaking, without caring about Big White's expression, he left in a hurry.
Big White watched Xiao Deng's hurried back, and couldn't help but feel a bit guilty.
He had kindly come to visit it, yet its attitude had been lukewarm.
He had even saved its life again, yet it had indirectly put its benefactor in a situation where he could be in danger at any time.
It had even refused such a basic request as letting him pet it.
It really deserved to die! It really wasn't acting like a beast!
Xiao Deng naturally didn't know what Big White was thinking at this moment; he only wanted to hide his identity.
In the dark room.
Under multiple stimuli, Quirrell finally slowly woke up, then immediately knelt down in fear and trepidation.
"Master, how did I get here?"
"You useless trash, to fall into the same pit twice, why didn't you just fall to your death!"
"Master, could it be that the person who attacked me this time is the same person from the Forbidden Forest last time?"
"Useless trash, you got hit and you don't even know who hit you."
"If it weren't for me helping you escape, you would have been captured by now."
"Master, please calm your anger; I will definitely find an opportunity as soon as possible."
That voice fell silent for a moment.
"Wait for now; in your current state, even if I gave you an opportunity, it would be useless."
When Xiao Deng returned to the Great Hall, he glanced at the Professor's table; Quirrell hadn't returned yet.
It seemed he was either not awake or healing somewhere.
On the way back, Xiao Deng had already used Spells to clean himself up, and there was nothing untoward about him.
Seeing Xiao Deng return, Ron said anxiously:
"Eat quickly, the feast is almost over; if you don't eat now, you won't have a chance."
Xiao Deng smiled and agreed with Ron's words.
While eating, he was still thinking that he would need to go and inform Dumbledore later.
Quirrell, or rather the person behind Quirrell, was still not giving up.
Xiao Deng slowly sat down beside Hermione and waved his hand gently, and food appeared on the table.
However, Xiao Deng raised an eyebrow.
It seemed the feast was indeed almost over; this portion of food wasn't even enough for one person, and the backup food was probably all used up.
Xiao Deng began to eat unhurriedly.
Hermione also waved her hand, and a new cup appeared on the table out of thin air.
It was just that there was only half a cup of pumpkin juiceleft inside.
Hermione's heart skipped a beat; wouldn't that mean Xiao Deng wouldn't have anything to drink later?
She was still hesitant about whether to give it to Xiao Deng.
Unexpectedly, in the next second, Xiao Deng's hand reached over, and Hermione was quick to protect the cup.
"What are you doing?"
Nice!
Thinking this in his heart, he couldn't say it out loud.
"Isn't this for me?"
Chapter 50: Secret Talk with Dumbledore
"Who said it was for you? This is my cup."
Xiao Deng looked at Hermione righteously.
"I didn't even hold it against you when you grabbed mine before we left."
"Now that I don't mind drinking your leftovers, why are you being so overbearing?"
Hermione:???
What leftovers? Why does he make it sound like he's the aggrieved one?
And who's being overbearing? Isn't this just shifting the blame?
In a fit of anger, she drank the remaining half-cup of pumpkin juice in one gulp.
"Cough, cough~"
In her haste, she ended up choking.
A warm palm patted Hermione on the back.
Hermione finally managed to catch her breath and realized what Xiao Deng was doing.
She couldn't help but feel a little embarrassed; had she gone too far again?
He was helping her, yet she had been so rude.
Just as Xiao Deng was patting Hermione's back, he noticed Quirrell walking in from outside.
He was walking unsteadily, appearing as though the effects of Stupefy had not completely worn off.
Just as Hermione was about to say something, Dumbledore's voice came from above.
"Everyone!"
"Today's banquet ends here."
"Prefects, please assist the Professors in guiding the young Wizards back to their Dormitories."
Xiao Deng didn't say much to them and followed the crowd back to the Dormitory.
However, Xiao Deng quietly slipped away from the group halfway there.
Dumbledore felt there were a lot of things to worry about this year; was it because Harry had arrived?
Dumbledore pushed open the door to his office.
"Principal, you're finally here!"
"Oh my..."
Dumbledore looked closely and saw it was Xiao Deng.
Dumbledore couldn't help but feel a bit weary at this moment.
I allowed you to come to the office at any time, but that didn't mean you should come to scare me at any time.
Do you know how old I am this year?
Dumbledore sat back in his seat.
"What do you want to see me about?"
Dumbledore handed Xiao Deng a lemon sherbet.
Xiao Deng didn't stand on ceremony and popped it straight into his mouth.
"I just ran into Quirrell again."
Dumbledore mumbled while eating the lemon sherbet:
"We're all in the same school, meeting isn't..."
"Hmm?"
"What do you mean by that?"
Xiao Deng looked at Dumbledore seriously.
"I went to Hagrid's hut just now and ran into Quirrellafterward."
"But he didn't know who I was."
Dumbledore looked up and asked: "Did you fight?"
Xiao Deng was silent for a moment.
"Sort of!"
"I hid in a corner and cast Stupefy on him first."
Dumbledore's face darkened; that's just like you!
Xiao Deng continued: "But I saw clearly why he stood up this time!"
Dumbledore stood up and looked at Xiao Deng.
"Tell me in detail!"
Xiao Deng nodded slightly, recalling the scene.
"He fell to the ground after being hit by the Spells, but black mist suddenly emerged from his body and enveloped him."
"Then he ran away!"
"If he hadn't run, I probably would have been exposed while trying to protect the Unicorn."
Dumbledore thought for a moment.
"Come with me, I will teach you how to use something."
The two then stood in front of a large basin.
"Concentrate, think about what just happened."
"Just like this..."
A silver thread was pulled from Dumbledore's mind.
The silver thread drifted into the Pensieve, and the conversation he just had with Xiao Deng immediately appeared inside.
For a genius like Xiao Deng, he learned it after just one look.
Using the same method, Xiao Deng pulled out a bright yellow thread.
"Hmm? Why is your memory thread yellow?"
Xiao Deng shook his head slightly, indicating he didn't know.
As they spoke, the thread fell into the Pensieve.
The scene of the battle with Quirrell immediately appeared.
Hah, you kid used a sneak attack!
Seeing the black mist emerge, Dumbledore narrowed his eyes.
Xiao Deng watched Dumbledore's expression; this old coot probably knew what that thing was.
"Principal, what exactly is this?"
Dumbledore sighed.
"You have fought him many times, and given his vindictive nature, it seems hard for you to stay out of this."
Dumbledore waved his hand, and a wave of magic enveloped the office.
"He is Lord Voldemort!"
"When he disappeared back then, I knew he would definitely return."
"I just didn't expect it to be so soon; it's only been a few years, and he's making a comeback."
Xiao Deng had already read most of the books in the Library by now, so he naturally knew who Lord Voldemortwas.
He just didn't expect the remnant soul on Quirrell to be Lord Voldemort.
"Is his goal the Fourth Floor?"
Dumbledore looked at Xiao Deng and smiled.
"You're quite sharp, little one."
Sharp? Your whole family is sharp!
"But you're only half right; his goal also includes Harry."
"So, I would like to ask you for a favor."
Xiao Deng slowly stood up and straightened his Wizardrobes.
"Do you want me to protect Harry?"
Dumbledore shook his head slightly.
"Not exactly, just help him out when necessary."
"But there is no rush for this matter yet."
"You go back first; I also need to think about how to handle the follow-up."
Xiao Deng nodded slightly and prepared to leave, when Dumbledore's voice sounded from behind.
"Xiao Deng!"
Xiao Deng looked back.
"Keep it a secret!"
Xiao Deng nodded slightly to show he understood, then walked out of the office.
At this time, it's best if I don't move until the enemy moves.
Judging by Dumbledore's appearance, he can't take out Lord Voldemort instantly right now.
Thinking back to the incident all those years ago, Lord Voldemort must have had special means to escape.
Otherwise, he wouldn't be giving Dumbledore such a headache.
Halfway there, Xiao Deng suddenly turned towards Snape's office.
Xiao Deng entered Snape's office again in his usual unceremonious manner.
Snape didn't say anything; it seems he had gotten used to it after all these days.
"The hero who saved the Unicorn is here."
"So capable, yet unable to keep that person there?"
Xiao Deng completely ignored the Old Bat's sarcasm.
"I'm here to get the Potion for your Harry."
The sarcasm that was just on his lips came to an abrupt halt after hearing this.
Snape stared coldly at Xiao Deng.
Just as they were in a standoff, a piece of paper flew to Snape's side.
After opening it, there was only one word on it.
"Come!"
Snape's pupils constricted; the amount of information in this one word from Dumbledore was huge.
The lack of explanation meant that the matter to be discussed was highly confidential and couldn't even be written on paper.
Snape waved his robes, and a bottle of Potion appeared on the table.
He then strode out of the office.
This Old Bat, isn't he afraid I'll empty out his office?
The seal on that paper just now was clearly from Dumbledore's office.
He called for Professor Snape right after I came out.
That must be someone Dumbledore trusts very much.
It seems Snape knows quite a bit too.
At the very least, he likely has some understanding of matters regarding Lord Voldemort.
Previously, Dumbledore only said he could be trusted, but didn't say to what extent.
Now it seems the level is quite deep.
Doesn't that mean Snape is very likely on our side?
Dumbledore helps Harry, Snape targets Harry.
One in the light, one in the dark; these two old men have so many tricks up their sleeves!
Chapter 51: Defying the Rules, Learning Spells Again
Xiao Deng came out of Snape's office.
On the way back to the Dormitory, he ran into Malfoy.
From a distance, it seemed like Malfoy had been waiting for quite a while.
When Malfoy saw Xiao Deng, his eyes lit up.
"Xiao Deng, you finally came out!"
"Are we still going to practice Spells today?"
Xiao Deng looked at this unusually diligent young master with surprise.
After tasting the sweetness of becoming stronger, all he had in his eyes now was the desire to learn from Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng pondered for a moment.
Quirrell had already been injured by him, so Lord Voldemort shouldn't be able to act alone.
That meant tonight should be safe.
"If you want to go, then let's go. Meet up tonight!"
"Great!"
Malfoy's excited reply was the response Xiao Dengreceived.
After Malfoy left, Xiao Deng felt he should go find Hermione once more.
He turned and walked toward the classroom area, arriving at the classroom where they had made jack-o'-lanterns together last time.
Opening the door, he found Hermione inside, reading by herself just as expected.
"What are you doing?"
"Reviewing, preparing for the final exams."
The corner of Xiao Deng's mouth twitched; they had only been in school for a few days, and she was already thinking about finals?
Xiao Deng patted Hermione's left shoulder but moved around to her right side.
"Can I tell you something?"
Hermione didn't even lift her eyelids, and her voice came out.
"Before you talk about anything that violates the rules, take your hand away first!"
Xiao Deng wasn't embarrassed and retracted his hand without a trace.
"Why so distant while you're studying?"
"I have something to tell you."
"Malfoy just found me and wants to continue learning Spells."
"So, is our classmate Hermione going?"
Hermione was a bit conflicted.
If she went, she would be breaking the rules again; if she didn't go, it was a great opportunity to learn!
While Hermione was hesitating, Xiao Deng began to fiddle with her Wizard robe.
His brows furrowed gradually; the ordinary fabric was truly worlds apart from his own.
It might be perfectly adequate for Hermione.
But Xiao Deng had seen too many immortal dresses of women in the cultivation world, and his taste was extremely picky.
Xiao Deng tugged at the corner of Hermione's Wizardrobe.
A patch of tender, snow-white skin at her waist was vaguely revealed.
A gust of cold air slipped into Hermione's clothes, and only then did she react, snatching her clothes back.
"What are you doing?"
Xiao Deng looked at Hermione innocently.
"I was just checking the fabric of your clothes."
Hermione's face flushed slightly, and she rolled her eyes at Xiao Deng.
"You never do anything proper all day!"
Xiao Deng stood up and adjusted his own clothes.
"If you don't want to go, forget it. I'll go with them."
Just as Xiao Deng's hand was about to touch the doorknob, Hermione's voice sounded from behind.
"I'll go!"
Xiao Deng turned back, looking at Hermione with a half-smile.
"I'm just worried you'll do something dangerous, so I'm supervising you."
Xiao Deng didn't continue to tease her. He nodded to show he understood and left the classroom.
The banquet was originally held in the evening, and it was quite late by the time it finished.
By the time Xiao Deng returned to the Dormitory, the others were already lying in bed.
Xiao Deng entered the room and clapped his hands twice; Seamus looked at him in confusion.
"What are you doing?"
"Nothing! Just bored."
Xiao Deng smiled without explaining, but the others didn't speak.
This was a pre-arranged signal specifically to avoid Seamus.
A look of frustration appeared on Ron's little face, clearly saying, "Are we still going?!"
Xiao Deng ignored him; it was no wonder Malfoy always mocked him.
Sometimes he was quite oblivious himself.
Xiao Deng placed a bottle of Potion in front of Harry.
Ron, who had just been frustrated, immediately changed his expression and crowded around.
"Why has the color of today's Potion changed?"
"It's this dark yellow, looks just like pee."
The corner of Harry's mouth twitched; Ron couldn't say anything pleasant.
"Are you drinking it or am I? With you saying that, how can I even drink it?"
Neville's naive voice came over.
"You want to drink pee? Why don't you just get Ron to get you some?"
Harry didn't want to deal with these two lunatics; he didn't know how their brains worked.
Closing his eyes, he downed it in one go.
Harry scrunched up his little face, squeezing his eyes shut tightly.
Ron kept pressing him at this moment.
"Is pee that hard to drink?"
Harry recovered after a while and looked at Xiao Deng.
"Professor Snape, what did you put in it?"
"It's too sour!"
Ron patted Harry's back and asked:
"Pee is sour?"
Harry's expression froze.
Can we just have a normal time? Is this never-ending?
Harry turned over with his back to Ron, and Ron thought Harry didn't want to talk because he was unhappy about drinking the pee.
He slowly returned to his own bed as well.
The sounds in the Dormitory gradually faded away.
When the appointed time arrived, several of them sat up simultaneously in tacit understanding.
Only Ron got out of bed sluggishly with a constipated look on his face.
After changing, he and Xiao Deng left the Dormitory.
When Xiao Deng and the others arrived at the meeting spot, Malfoy and Hermione were already there.
"Let's go!"
After Xiao Deng and the others entered the Forbidden Forest, the sounds of many animals appeared in the forest again.
Ron looked up.
"What's wrong with these animals? They weren't making noise a moment ago, but as soon as we came in, they started calling out everywhere."
Malfoy sneered: "They must be angry because they smelled your stupid aura."
"Malfoy, stop talking nonsense!"
Xiao Deng didn't care about them; the two of them always bickered whenever they met.
Arriving at the location where they had stopped before, Xiao Deng still felt this place was good.
Most importantly, many animals in the Forbidden Forestknew he was often here.
"Your father is a Death Eater!"
"Your dad has no money!"
Xiao Deng rubbed his temples.
"Alright, you two, we're starting now."
With Xiao Deng's intervention, the two finally stopped, though still feeling unsatisfied.
"We won't review the previous material."
"Neville can already skillfully use Alohomora to open other people's pants."
The children burst into laughter.
After all, they had fought together, so the subtle tension between them had improved a lot by now.
"Today, I'll teach you something new."
"Watch closely!"
"Protego: Protego!"
"This spell is very suitable for you."
"Before you have absolute strength, protecting yourselves is the only thing you can do."
Hermione, having experienced the Troll attack, felt this most deeply.
If it weren't for Xiao Deng, who knows what the consequences would have been.
"This spell is very practical."
"Not to mention at Hogwarts, even after you graduate and go out into the outside magic world, it will still be useful."
Xiao Deng wasn't teaching this spell on a whim.
He had already been planning it after experiencing the incident with Lord Voldemort.
Who knows when this spell might save their lives.
Xiao Deng had plenty of ability, but he couldn't take care of everyone at the moment.
Unless he achieved the Nascent Soul stage right now.
Then these people could be protected even if they just lay there.
But giving a man a fish is not as good as teaching him how to fish.
In a few years or twenty years, if all the geniuses were his close friends, then this network would not be so simple.
Especially since there was a Child of Destiny among them!
Chapter 52: The Miserable Four
It must be said that pure-blood families do indeed have their advantages.
Malfoy quickly mastered Protego, while Harry was a step slower than Malfoy.
However, this progress was much faster than last time.
It shows that Harry's talent for magic is quite good.
Perhaps in a few days, after getting familiar with it, he will learn even faster than Malfoy.
Seeing that two people had already learned it, Hermionebecame a bit anxious.
Could it be that she is even slower than Ron?
Xiao Deng came up behind Hermione, supporting her waist, and placed his other hand on the one holding her wand.
"Don't be anxious, don't sway your body, keep your hand steady."
"Follow what I taught you and try again."
Hermione calmed down and succeeded after only two attempts.
"Ron, you are so slow!"
Ron glanced at Neville, who had spoken.
"You haven't succeeded either, how dare you talk about me."
"But I am slow!"
Ron's mouth twitched; the words that were about to come out were forcibly swallowed back, leaving him speechless.
Neville's honest demeanor really left Ron not knowing how to respond.
No, I can't be later than Neville!
A bird's cry came, and Xiao Deng looked up.
He saw a Giant Eagle, blocking out the sky, fly over and land steadily beside Xiao Deng.
"Giant Eagle, have you been having fun lately?"
"Chirp, chirp~"
"As long as you're happy!"
Suddenly, a sound came from not far away.
"Protego!"
Ron and Neville both succeeded in casting the spell at the same time.
Ron felt uncomfortable holding it in, and the words he had prepared were swallowed back down again.
Xiao Deng stood up.
"It seems everyone has successfully cast the spell."
"After success comes application in actual combat."
Malfoy was a bit puzzled:
"How do you apply this? It's not like an offensive spell."
Xiao Deng smiled slightly without answering and looked to the side.
He whistled towards the depths of the darkness, and quite a few animals came out of the Forbidden Forest.
"You help them practice their Spells."
Upon hearing this, the eyes of the animals that came over immediately lit up.
They were usually abused by Xiao Deng, and today they finally had a chance to abuse others!
"However, watch your strength, and stop when the point is made."
The animals all agreed.
"Then let's start. If anything happens, come find me."
After saying this, Xiao Deng walked into the depths of the Forbidden Forest.
Howls of ghosts and wolves rose up behind him.
There is nothing better for improving how to use Protegoto block others' attacks than actual combat.
As Xiao Deng went deeper, the animals inside became restless.
A Centaur blocked Xiao Deng's path.
"Xiao Deng, why are you here again?"
Although Xiao Deng had no malicious intent, he loved fighting every day!
The Centaur rubbed his brow; he couldn't beat him, and he still had to speak nicely to this young master.
If you get angry and want to beat him up, he'll be even happier than you.
After beating you, he'll give you a treatment, leaving you with no temper at all.
Werewolves are pack creatures, and even group attacks couldn't beat him.
So seeing Xiao Deng really gave him a headache.
"I'm just coming in for a walk," Xiao Deng said innocently.
It's no wonder others couldn't beat him; his Hehuan cultivation technique was originally from the world of immortality.
The advancement of his realm provided a comprehensive improvement in his abilities.
His physical strength was already beyond what ordinary people could compare to; average animals couldn't even break his defense.
Coincidentally, the Giant Eagle flew in from behind, causing the Centaur to be alert.
"Don't panic, it's mine."
"Chirp, chirp!"
Xiao Deng pondered for a moment.
"Fine, I have other things to do, I won't go in today."
Hearing this, the Centaur immediately breathed a sigh of relief.
Watching Xiao Deng's retreating figure, he also slowly left.
Xiao Deng returned to the place where he was just now.
At a glance, he saw his friends lying on the ground, wailing.
"Everyone, how do you feel?"
Ron immediately howled:
"They are too tricky, they aren't even human!"
"They bit me all over!"
Facing Ron's howling, several animals resting nearby made joyful sounds.
"So satisfying!"
"Beating people up just feels great."
"No wonder Xiao Deng likes beating up animals!"
Xiao Deng's face darkened; he did that to test his own strength.
What do you mean "likes"?
However, the people who couldn't communicate with them naturally didn't know what the animals had said.
They just felt that they were too arrogant!
"Tired? Injured? Very good!"
"Next, I will teach you healing."
"Watch clearly!"
"Episkey!"
"Try it yourselves."
Ron howled: "Aren't you going to heal us?"
Xiao Deng's mouth curled into a smile.
"If I heal you, how will you know if your spellcasting is correct?"
At this moment, even Malfoy looked over.
Buddy, what's with all these tricks?
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng's silent demeanor and fell into deep thought.
Usually, Xiao Deng was a bit of a slacker, but he was reliable when it came to getting things done.
Suddenly, Hermione's eyes lit up.
"I know!"
"First, teach Protego to prevent injury."
"Then fight with animals, which is about dodging and how to avoid getting injured."
"Finally, teach healing, on how to protect yourself after getting injured."
"The core is all for one purpose: to increase your survival rate in confrontation as much as possible."
Neville looked serious, trying hard to digest Hermione's words.
Ron looked at Hermione, still with an expression of disbelief.
"Is it that complicated?"
Harry didn't say anything and quietly recovered his energy.
Malfoy, however, glanced at Xiao Deng; that look was clearly a "Tch."
It's easier for the little wife to guess Xiao Deng's thoughts!
Xiao Deng didn't speak, just taking it as tacit agreement.
Hermione immediately started chanting the spell, imitating Xiao Deng's appearance from just before.
With Hermione leading the way, the others were embarrassed to slack off anymore and all got up to start practicing.
Xiao Deng dispersed the animals that were still eager to try nearby.
He looked at the sky; it was about time.
After many attempts, several people gradually learned the spell.
"That's about it for today."
"It's about time, let's go back."
This time, not only Ron, but the others also showed smiles of relief.
Several people rushed back excitedly.
Because of his weight, Neville was a few steps slower than the others when getting up.
Xiao Deng gently pulled Neville, deliberately keeping some distance from the others.
"Xiao Deng, what's wrong?"
Xiao Deng looked at Neville seriously.
"Are you serious? That is an Unforgivable Curse!"
"Do you really want to learn it?"
The silly look on Neville's face gradually disappeared, replaced by a face full of sadness.
"I want to learn it, I want to learn it!"
"My parents were tortured to such a state by this curse."
"Every day they are going crazy at St. Mungo's, and it's extremely painful just to watch."
"I don't know what Grandmother made me forget, but I am sure it was caused by this curse."
"I want to study this curse; what if there is a way to solve it?"
"I also want to learn this curse; what if I can encounter that murderer?"
Halfway through, Neville was already sobbing.
Xiao Deng naturally knew this curse; after all, he had almost finished reading the books in the Library.
With a thousand years of heritage, there were bound to be unknown aspects.
Coincidentally, Xiao Deng had read notes related to it.
Xiao Deng looked at Neville in silence, and bean-sized beads of sweat gradually appeared on Neville's forehead.
"Follow along and learn first; I will teach you when the time is right."
Chapter 53: Harry Wants to Join Quidditch
The next day.
The young Wizards had to attend classes as usual.
Except for Hermione, the others were all swaying back and forth crookedly.
After class, Ron complained to Xiao Deng.
"It's just too tiring; is this a life for humans?"
"Weasley, you used the wrong word; you're a pig."
"Malfoy, say that again?"
Xiao Deng rubbed his temples and moved away from the two of them.
After class, Professor McGonagall came to find Harry.
Malfoy took the opportunity to come over and ask, "What did Harry go do?"
Before Xiao Deng could answer, Hermione replied, "I don't know. He was called away by Professor McGonagall. Ask him when he gets back."
Malfoy nodded slightly and went back to arguing with Ron.
"You're a piglet!"
"You reptile!"
Xiao Deng glanced at Ron, feeling a bit surprised.
Based on his previous understanding of Ron, he shouldn't have been able to say such words when facing Malfoy.
He didn't know if it was because they had gotten familiar over the past few days, or...
Xiao Deng's gaze swept over Hermione.
Harry was gone for quite a while; by the time he returned, it was almost time to eat.
The group walked into the Great Hall together. Malfoydidn't say anything and silently returned to the Slytherintable.
After the previous fight, Xiao Deng had told him to sit back at the Slytherin table during meals.
To avoid being targeted by others again.
Although he wasn't afraid, it was a hassle after all.
After sitting down, Ron took a bite of a chicken leg and asked, "Harry, what did Professor McGonagall want with you?"
Harry looked up at his friends.
"Professor McGonagall wants me to join Quidditch."
Hermione looked at Harry in surprise, "Aren't we first-years?"
Harry shook his head, "Professor McGonagall said she could make an exception for me. She said I have great talent."
Hermione kicked Xiao Deng, who was next to her, "Are you mute? Say something!"
Xiao Deng then put down his food, "If Professor McGonagall wants you to go, then go. She wouldn't harm you!"
"It mainly depends on whether you enjoy playing."
Harry scratched the back of his head, "Actually, I'm quite interested in this, so I agreed."
Ron said excitedly, "Then we'll go watch you perform."
Harry gave a shy smile, "Of course you can!"
While the three were talking about Quidditch, Xiao Deng's thoughts drifted away.
When he chatted with Dumbledore earlier, it was revealed that Lord Voldemort's goal was the Philosopher's Stoneand Harry.
If he were Lord Voldemort, such a high-intensity sport would naturally be a good opportunity to make a move.
It would be even better if Harry accidentally fell to his death on the field.
However, looking at Harry, it didn't seem like he had a broom.
Then where would it be more appropriate to make a move?
Xiao Deng had no clue for a moment; if all else failed, he would discuss it with the old man later.
Just as the group was chatting happily, an Owl flew in from outside.
A letter stamped with the "Weasley" seal landed squarely on Ron's head.
Ron was a bit confused; why would his family write to him?
However, two pairs of eyes watching for a show turned toward him.
Ron opened the letter, and it immediately jumped out.
"Ron!"
"What have you done at school?"
"Complaints have been sent to me!"
Upon hearing this irritable voice, Ron instinctively leaned back.
"You dare to violate Hogwarts' rules."
Fred and George came up behind Ron, "Ron, did you get a Howler?"
"Take a deep breath, don't worry!"
The letter continued to output, "You actually dared to sneak out at night, and if that wasn't enough, you went to the Forbidden Forest. How many lives do you have?"
"You're just as troublesome as your two brothers."
"And tell those two as well."
"You three, if I receive another complaint, when you come back, I'll let you taste how fragrant a slap is!"
The letter finished speaking and landed on the table.
The smiles on the Weasley Brothers' faces froze.
People around started whispering, but one person was an exception.
Malfoy was laughing the loudest.
Fred and George looked at each other and tacitly left Ron's seat.
Harry patted Ron's shoulder, "Don't worry..."
Before Harry could finish, Hermione chimed in, "You're definitely getting that slap. Let us know later if it's fragrant or not."
Ron widened his eyes at Hermione, "You, you, you are so vicious!"
Hermione glanced at Ron, "If I weren't vicious, would it sound like you're being a good boy right now?"
Ron was speechless for a moment; vicious or not, the fact that he went to the Forbidden Forest was true.
Not only did he go last time, he was now a regular.
Ron felt aggrieved!
His gaze gradually shifted to Xiao Deng.
"Don't look at me, I didn't force you to learn Spells."
"If you blame this all on me, is there any justice left?"
Ron made a bitter face, grabbed the chicken leg on his plate, and turned his sadness into appetite, taking a big bite.
Just as Harry was sympathizing with Ron, Xiao Dengplaced a small bottle in front of Harry.
When Harry saw this bottle, he felt a headache coming on.
The tables had turned; now it was Ron's turn to sympathize with Harry.
"Why is this one black?"
"Whose is this..."
"Shut up, Ron!"
Hermione spoke up to stop Ron, startling him.
"No, Hermione, what are you doing? Not letting a person speak? Do you know what I was going to say?"
Hermione snorted, "I don't know, but it certainly wouldn't be anything good!"
Harry patted Ron's shoulder, "You'd better eat first!"
Then, frowning, he gulped down the black solution.
Harry's little face scrunched up, almost twisting together.
He quickly picked up the pumpkin juice and took a big gulp.
Watching Harry's actions, Xiao Deng also reached out for the pumpkin juice, but he grabbed nothing.
Huh?
He turned his head and happened to meet Hermione's smug little gaze.
With no choice, Xiao Deng had to ask for a cup of pumpkin juice himself.
Ron leaned close to Harry, who was already slumped on the table, "What does it taste like?"
"A taste so bitter it couldn't be any more bitter!"
Xiao Deng straightened his clothes, "There are no classes this afternoon; do whatever you want."
"I have things to do, you guys go have your own activities."
Bright light burst forth in Ron's eyes; finally, no need to practice.
Ignoring the expressions of the others, he stood up on his own.
In Hermione's eyes, Xiao Deng was going to find some Professor to learn more advanced and profound magic.
But in reality, Xiao Deng was going to find Dumbledore.
With the privilege granted by Dumbledore, Xiao Dengarrived at the office very smoothly.
Dumbledore looked at Xiao Deng with surprise; there didn't seem to be anything going on today, right?
"Principal, good afternoon!"
"Good afternoon, is there something you came for?"
Xiao Deng slowly sat on the stool and nodded slightly, "There are indeed two things."
"The first thing is, do you know that Harry was chosen by Professor McGonagall to join the Quidditch match?"
Dumbledore put down his pen, "That counts as a matter for the house, I wasn't aware."
"What's the matter?"
Xiao Deng revealed a gentle smile, "If you were that person, hearing this kind of news, what would you do?"
Chapter 54: I Heard You're a Spells Prodigy
Dumbledore's heart skipped a beat; the old man with eight hundred schemes immediately guessed what Xiao Dengwas about to say.
"Are you saying he might tamper with Harry during the Quidditch match?"
Xiao Deng nodded slightly.
"I do think so, but I haven't figured out where he would tamper."
Hearing Xiao Deng's words, Dumbledore laughed out loud.
"Others might not know, but how could I not know?"
"Among the young Wizards, you can be considered number one. Even you have times when you're troubled?"
Xiao Deng's face darkened. Why did this mocking tone sound so much like a certain Old Bat?
"Since you can't think of where the opportunity is, then create an opportunity for him to tamper."
Xiao Deng didn't reply, waiting for Dumbledore's follow-up.
"Harry probably doesn't have a broomstick yet, does he?"
"Get a new broomstick for Harry."
"Everything else will be old, and only the broomstick will be new; his attention will naturally be drawn to it."
"Moreover, a broomstick is an important magic item for Quidditch."
"It's an essential item for anyone participating in the match, so it's highly likely that's where he'll strike."
Xiao Deng still highly agreed with what Snape said.
The Old Bee is buzzing!
With eight hundred schemes, an idea just buzzed right out.
"But under what name should this broomstick be given? Wouldn't it be too deliberate?"
Dumbledore took out a lemon sherbet and casually tossed one to Xiao Deng.
"You're overthinking this. Professor McGonagall is so protective of her students; she will solve this problem for Harry."
Just after saying this, Dumbledore noticed Xiao Denglooking at him with a very strange expression.
"I didn't expect you to even set up Professor McGonagall."
Dumbledore's face darkened.
"Child, you can't just say things like that. What do you mean by'set up'?"
"This is called rational utilization; I'm just letting things take their natural course."
Hmm, that's right, just buzzing along with the natural course.
"As for the second matter, I need to understand a few things."
"Do you know Neville Longbottom?"
The playful expression on Dumbledore's face gradually faded.
"The Longbottom family..."
"Has suffered quite a lot!"
"His parents were tortured by Death Eaters back then and eventually went insane."
"This child is also a pitiful soul."
"We should help him however we can."
Xiao Deng elegantly crossed his legs.
"My dear Principal, how should we help?"
"He wants to learn Crucio!"
Dumbledore stared at Xiao Deng with wide eyes, taking a good while to calm his mood.
He took out a lemon sherbet and popped it into his mouth.
"The boy is a good child, a kind-hearted child."
"It's just that even if he learns it, it's probably of no use."
"He most likely won't be able to cast it."
"Even if he wants to study it, it probably won't be of any use."
"In the Wizarding World, damage to the soul has always been unsolvable."
Dumbledore suddenly turned his head to look at Xiao Deng.
"Did you teach it to him?"
Xiao Deng couldn't help but roll his eyes.
"Who do you look down on, Principal? Do I look that careless to you?"
"I am still aware of the side effects that spell has on the mind."
Dumbledore immediately followed up by asking:
"That is to say, you know this spell?"
Xiao Deng's expression stiffened. Damn it, he'd capsized in the gutter!
"Principal, what are you saying? I don't understand!"
Dumbledore chuckled, pointing his index finger at Xiao Deng.
"You really are a master of playing dumb."
Xiao Deng revealed a gentle smile.
"That's still not as tough as your methods."
Dumbledore waved his hand and said: "You're still the superior one; even at this point, you still refuse to admit it."
"No, no, no, Principal, you are both superior and tough!"
Dumbledore slowly sat down and sighed.
"Since you know its side effects and have it under control, I can rest easy."
"If there are any problems, come find me in time."
Even though he said that, Dumbledore's eyes still revealed deep concern.
However, Xiao Deng didn't explain; the methods of the cultivation world weren't something he could understand.
With so many soul-capturing things in the cultivation world, Crucio probably has to stand aside.
As a genius of the Hehuan Sect, Xiao Deng naturally had more sophisticated methods to deal with it.
It's just that he originally wanted to probe Dumbledore for information, but now it was useless.
The cultivation world also has methods targeting the soul, but most require materials, which this world most likely doesn't have.
At least he hadn't heard of many from Snape.
Repairing a soul empty-handed is even more of a fantasy.
"Principal, I have nothing else."
"If you have no other instructions, I'll be going back."
Dumbledore waved his hand, and Xiao Deng exited the office.
Xiao Deng didn't go straight back, but instead turned towards Snape's office.
"Yo, the great Potions Master is busy!"
Snape was expressionless.
"I allow you into my office to make your work easier."
"Not so that a self-righteous person like you can fly around aimlessly when bored."
Xiao Deng walked over to help Snape.
"Oh, isn't this me coming over to help you!"
"I also brought you a piece of good news and a piece of bad news."
Snape didn't speak, continuing to busy himself with what was in his hands, as if he hadn't heard.
Xiao Deng had long since figured out Snape's personality, so he wasn't embarrassed and continued:
"Harry is about to participate in this Quidditch match as a player."
Snape's movements paused.
"He's only in his first year; Professor McGonagall wouldn't agree to this."
"Hehe! What a coincidence!"
"It was precisely because Professor McGonagalldiscovered Harry's talent for Quidditch that she made an exception and approved Harry's participation."
Snape turned to look at Xiao Deng, was silent for a good while, and then withdrew his gaze.
That cat is still as willful as ever, just like when I was in school.
Xiao Deng had an illusion: did Snape just have a feeling of sighing?
"Why tell me this? I'm making my Potion and don't care about these things."
"Also, it's quite good if Slytherin can defeat that arrogant The Chosen One."
"Professor, did you forget one thing?"
"Even if Slytherin wins Quidditch, they still won't get the House Cup."
The corner of Snape's mouth twitched visibly.
"Xiao Deng talks back to a Professor; ten points from Gryffindor."
Xiao Deng stared at Snape with wide eyes.
No way, Old Bat, you're such a sore loser?
The office was silent for a good while.
Snape stirred the measuring cup in his hand.
"Is The Chosen One drinking his Potion smoothly lately?"
Xiao Deng replied irritably: "He says you want to poison him."
Snape rarely revealed a trace of an unskilled fake smile.
A light, airy voice drifted over.
"Harry being able to play Quidditch is also an opportunity for someone to make a move."
Snape's smile froze on his face, and then, as if he had thought of something, his face gradually became ugly.
Heh, who doesn't know how to mess with people's minds?
"So..."
Xiao Deng's words were half-finished when he was stopped by Snape.
Immediately, with a wave of his hand, the office was enchanted, and then he said nothing more.
"So you have to watch him closely."
"Any random act of malice would be fatal for Harry."
Snape often communicated with Dumbledore in secret.
He knew some things about Xiao Deng and also knew that Xiao Deng was gradually getting involved in a certain event.
Snape poured the solutions from the two containers together, as if he hadn't heard Xiao Deng's words.
After placing the final container down, Snape looked at Xiao Deng.
After a long silence, a voice was squeezed out of Snape's mouth.
"I heard you are a genius at Spells; cast a few Spells and let me see how much you've learned."