Chapter 91: Albus Dumbledore's Sudden Summons
Hmph!
"Then you can't peek at me!"
Myrtle shrieked: "Ah!"
"Why not?"
"You are my Master, why can't I look!"
Hey, she's actually getting worked up!
Just as Xiao Deng took off his clothes to get into the water, Myrtle flushed crimson and covered her eyes.
I have to say, this prefect really knows how to enjoy life.
Before long, Myrtle floated over.
"Master, why don't you stand up?"
Xiao Deng kept his whole body submerged in the water, not wanting to pay attention to Myrtle.
He had the illusion that he was being teased.
"I see the lines of your shoulders, it looks like you usually exercise."
"Stand up and let me have a look!"
Myrtle kept on pestering him relentlessly.
Xiao Deng stood up reluctantly.
Myrtle was startled, and with a blushing face, she spun around in the air.
"Ah!"
"Ahem!"
"Your physique is really nice!"
"Do a spin."
"Alright, take a bow."
Xiao Deng:???
You damn ghost, your interests are really broad; I almost forgot you were Muggle-born!
Myrtle sat on top of Xiao Deng's head, constantly comforting the angry Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng's thoughts, however, had drifted far away.
He could build a bathroom like this on the Eighth Floor.
Although Xiao Deng had Spells, as well as cultivation techniques like the Cleansing Mantra to clean himself.
And the Unicorn's own self-cleaning magic abilities.
But this bathroom, you know, who doesn't like playing in the water?
In the water, on the basin, on the railing, in front of the floor-length mirror...
Right? Right!
Just as the human and the ghost were chatting, a letter with a unique seal landed in front of Xiao Deng.
Myrtle exclaimed: "This is Albus Dumbledore's exclusive magical seal."
"Master, everything you said is true?"
Xiao Deng glanced at Myrtle; so all this time, she thought everything he told her was just him trying to fool her?
Xiao Deng opened the letter; it only had one word on it: "Come."
It's late at night, and they still won't let a person rest.
Xiao Deng got up to put on his clothes.
"Something came up, I'm leaving first, I'll come back to see you later."
Myrtle heard him, but she dove headfirst into the faucet and didn't respond to Xiao Deng anymore.
Xiao Deng left the bathroom on his own and headed toward Albus Dumbledore's office.
By the time Xiao Deng arrived, Snape was already waiting in Albus Dumbledore's office.
"Our genius little Wizard certainly has a grand entrance."
Facing Snape's sarcasm, Xiao Deng didn't coddle him at all.
"No matter how grand, it's not as pretty as Harry's eyes."
Snape snorted coldly and said nothing more.
Albus Dumbledore stepped in to smooth things over.
"Alright, alright, I called you here because there is a matter to discuss."
"Not to listen to you two bicker."
Just as Albus Dumbledore was about to start, a hand reached out in front of him.
Albus Dumbledore's mouth twitched; what the hell, in his memory, Xiao Deng wasn't short on money, right?
Always trying to mooch these few pennies worth of candy from him.
With a dark face, he handed the lemon sherbet to Xiao Deng and got straight to the point of why he called them.
"Quirrell has already left Hogwarts."
"I think he probably won't be coming back."
Seeing that neither of them intended to reply, Albus Dumbledore didn't play coy and continued.
"The Chamber of Secrets on the Fourth Floor has been destroyed."
"He didn't get the Philosopher's Stone, so he might try other ways to make a comeback."
"As for the Defense Against the Dark Arts Class, I have hired someone else to teach it."
At this point, Albus Dumbledore felt a cold gaze sweep over him.
But he didn't respond.
Xiao Deng looked at Snape with excitement.
"Professor Snape, what do you think of his abilities?"
Words devoid of emotion were squeezed through Snape's teeth.
"Shit."
Xiao Deng thought for a moment, then leaned in close to Snape.
"You can't compare him to yourself, you are a Potion Master after all."
Snape glanced at Xiao Deng but didn't speak.
"Compare him to someone else, compare him to the average level of the public."
Snape scoffed.
"The Chosen One is so useless that even with Potter's current level, he could go toe-to-toe with him."
Xiao Deng immediately became interested.
"Oh?"
"Is Professor Snape so attentive to Harry?"
"You even know what progress Harry is making!"
Snape's face darkened, but he didn't lash out; he was already used to Xiao Deng not having anything nice to say.
On the side, Albus Dumbledore made a "tsk, tsk, tsk" sound.
"Severus, are you starting to care about Harry now?"
Snape's face turned black.
"Are you two very idle?"
"Then I'm going back!"
Albus Dumbledore immediately stopped Snape.
"We still very much need you."
Xiao Deng finally said seriously:
"This matter can only be dealt with by waiting and seeing."
"If we could have caught him last semester, we would be discussing how to make him disappear by now."
"Now we can only wait for him to appear himself; if the enemy doesn't move, I won't move."
"If he moves, then we should move too."
Albus Dumbledore looked at Xiao Deng strangely; this sounded so sketchy.
After a long silence, Albus Dumbledore finally spoke.
"That's all we can do."
"If there is any news, let's communicate as soon as possible."
Snape didn't say anything and hurried out the door.
Xiao Deng also followed him out; he didn't tell them about the Malfoy matter.
After all, he had promised Malfoy to keep it a secret.
This matter still needs to be investigated in secret.
Xiao Deng returned to the Dormitory, and his friends widened their eyes.
Harry asked: "Why are you back?"
Ron chimed in: "We thought you weren't coming back like yesterday."
Xiao Deng answered while tidying up his bed.
"I just came back from the Principal's office, I'm so annoyed."
"I'm clearly just a little Wizard."
Neville flushed red: "Your skin is thicker than all the chicken legs Ron has eaten combined."
Xiao Deng's face darkened; why does this way of scolding sound so familiar?
"Neville, who did you hear that from?"
Ron sat up from his bed and shouted:
"Do we even need to guess? It must be Hermione!"
Xiao Deng rubbed his face, speechless.
Hermione is really hard to deal with!
He let out a deep sigh and looked at his friends.
"Malfoy came to see me today."
"He hopes I will continue the training group."
"So I'm just asking for your opinions."
"If you are afraid of the hard work, I can just find Malfoy."
Harry was the first to stand up.
"I agree!"
Ron and Neville also said in unison: "I agree too!"
Seamus just wanted to speak, but was blocked by Xiao Deng.
"Seamus, you don't need to come."
"Whatever you cast ends up exploding, and in the end, it won't be them coming to me."
"Professor McGonagall will definitely come over personally to deduct my points."
"I'll take you to the Forbidden Forest to practice later."
Seamus shrugged, having no choice but to lie back on the bed.
Ron looked a bit hesitant and asked Xiao Deng, looking up:
"Then Hermione..."
Xiao Deng pinched his brow; they all knew Hermione's temperament.
Plus, with Xiao Deng protecting her intentionally or unintentionally, this made Hermione even more unscrupulous in displaying her pride.
"I'll go talk to her specifically later."
"If you go, you'll probably get a good scolding."
Chapter 92: The Boring Defense Against the Dark Arts Class
Early the next morning.
The group called out to each other and got up to wash.
Today was the day for Lockhart's class; they had to see for themselves the person whom Snape held in such contempt.
Just as they came out intending to go to the dining hall for breakfast, they ran into Professor McGonagall.
Professor Snape was following behind Professor McGonagall.
Xiao Deng narrowed his eyes slightly.
Watching Snape wear that long face every day, as if everyone owed him two hundred bucks.
Now it seemed that, although they didn't get along, sometimes the Old Bat was quite clingy to Professor McGonagall.
When Professor McGonagall saw Xiao Deng, her face lit up at first, but then she frowned.
"Xiao Deng, you have been a bit slack lately."
"You used to get up very early to preview your lessons."
"Even if you aren't previewing, you should be practicing magic."
Snape chimed in casually: "Exactly!"
Xiao Deng raised an eyebrow. You are nothing!
Aren't you being exploited by the workplace?
Didn't Dumbledore call you in for overtime last night?
Didn't you come out of Dumbledore's office very late?
Professor McGonagall said kindly:
"It's common for young Wizards to be lazy, but you still need to work hard."
Snape stared at Xiao Deng and suddenly spoke:
"Professor McGonagall!"
"I saw Mr. Hehuan last night."
Xiao Deng:???
You good-for-nothing Old Bat, playing like this, huh?
Meeting Dumbledore naturally couldn't be told to Professor McGonagall.
Otherwise, she would worry again.
But at this moment, Xiao Deng was more worried about his own situation.
Sure enough, Professor McGonagall became serious immediately upon hearing Snape's words.
"Xiao Deng, were you wandering the castle at night last night?"
Xiao Deng didn't rush to refute, but looked at Snape.
"May I ask where Professor Snape saw me?"
"Since you saw me, why didn't you fulfill your duties as a Professor?"
"Could it be that you, Professor, intentionally allowed me to wander Hogwarts at night without stopping me?"
"I am an orphan. Does a Muggle Wizard like me, a loner, not catch your eye?"
"Has the prejudice of Slytherin... already spread to the level of the Professors?"
Snape felt a bit uncomfortable; this logical way of questioning seemed familiar.
That's right! It was the same logic used when dealing with Filch.
He didn't expect it to be used on himself.
"I didn't think that!"
"I was just bluffing you."
Professor McGonagall glared at Snape reproachfully.
"Oh, Severus, that joke is not funny at all."
"Professors should be mindful of their own words and actions."
Snape was expressionless and said nothing more.
Xiao Deng chuckled and took his friends to eat.
Not long after they sat down, a rounded bottom landed next to Xiao Deng.
Hermione looked at Harry and the others.
"Did Xiao Deng go back last night?"
Harry nodded immediately.
"He went back, he went back."
"He is too busy; Dumbledore often looks for him."
Xiao Deng finally understood; he had a bunch of moles around him.
Reporting his whereabouts to Hermione every day, although they didn't know why.
But given Hermione's long-standing authority, they all chose to compromise.
Xiao Deng's face turned dark as he stuffed food into his mouth.
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng's unhappy expression triumphantly; she was just very happy.
"Lockhart's class is coming up."
"I asked Professor Snape yesterday what he thought of this newly hired Professor."
Ron couldn't help but shiver.
"Can anything good come out of Professor Snape's mouth?"
Xiao Deng hooked the corner of his mouth.
"You're right, Professor Snape didn't give him a good look."
"He just called him a piece of shit."
Harry's eyes widened as he looked at Xiao Deng.
"No need to guess, it's definitely a sure thing."
"He's still torturing me in class right now!"
Xiao Deng crooked his finger, and Harry leaned in closer.
"I'll give you a trick. It won't say it stops him from targeting you completely, but it will alleviate your current situation."
"What method?"
"Next time he comes to trouble you, just widen your eyes and stare at him without saying a word."
"Apart from looking at him, don't do anything else."
Hermione kicked Xiao Deng.
"What kind of crazy idea is this? Can this work?"
Xiao Deng glanced at Hermione.
"I can't do it?"
"What can't I do?"
Hermione's face turned red immediately, and she raised her hand to hit Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng grabbed Hermione's hand.
"Let's talk about that later."
"Let's talk about Harry first."
"Just do as I said."
"Anyway, you have no other way to stop Professor Snape, do you?"
Thinking about it, Harry really didn't have any other way, and there was no loss in trying.
After eating and drinking, they walked towards the classroom.
Lockhart was already standing on the podium, smiling and waiting for the young Wizards to arrive.
It must be said that the smile that could make it onto a magazine cover did have some infectious power.
The white teeth and the smile practiced for years really had no major flaws to pick at.
But this generation of young Wizards was used to Xiao Deng's god-like beauty, so their reaction to Lockhart was flat.
It could only be said that his complexion looked better than Professor Snape's.
"I used to be a fan of his, but compared to my Xiao Deng, he's far behind."
"Exactly, it's better to give birth to seven monkeys for Xiao Deng."
...
The enthusiasm was a bit different from what Lockhart expected.
Could it be that they don't know my big name?
Right, that must be it!
They have been at Hogwarts all this time, they must not know I possess the Third Class Order of Merlin.
"My dear young Wizards, welcome to my class."
"I am your Defense Against the Dark Arts Class Professor."
"My name is Gilderoy Lockhart."
"I have been awarded the Third Class Order of Merlin."
"Five-time winner of Witch Weekly's Most Charming Smile Award."
"At the same time, I have also authored..."
Xiao Deng frowned. Was he here to do a runway show or to teach? He interrupted him.
"Professor, please start the class."
"The class has already started for five minutes!"
Lockhart's expression stiffened, then he relaxed.
"Okay."
"It seems the young Wizards are already impatient to hear my lecture."
"Then let's begin."
"First, let's turn to the first page!"
"Speaking of this Dark Arts, I am the most professional."
"I have studied many Dark Arts before."
"This is written in the books I have authored."
"However, there were few opponents."
"So I am willing to become a gardener Professor, to teach you Defense Against the Dark Arts Class."
"I hope that an opponent will appear among you."
"To have a hearty duel with me."
...
Xiao Deng felt like he was suffering when he heard Lockhart's words!
The breakfast was almost eaten in vain!
Not only did he talk nonsense, he also bragged about himself.
Half the class had passed, and not a bit of useful knowledge had been mentioned!
Professor Snape was really right!
It was the first time being so in sync with the Old Bat.
Chapter 93: Lockhart Must Be the One to Make a Fool of Himself
"Professor, practice is the only means to test the truth."
"I think actual combat is more appropriate."
Xiao Deng's words drew agreement from many young Wizards.
Especially Gryffindor!
Lockhart's expression stiffened, then he piled on a smile again.
"Oh, this is just our first lesson."
"There is no need for this."
"I am worried I might hurt you."
Xiao Deng was expressionless at this moment; Hermione felt he looked exactly like Snape possessed him.
"Why be a Wizard if you are afraid of getting hurt?"
"Professor Lockhart, surely you aren't going to say you are sick today, are you?"
The smile on Lockhart's face was almost impossible to maintain.
He had never encountered such embarrassing situations before.
Before coming to Hogwarts, who wouldn't heap praise upon him when they saw him?
He was practically the center of attention back then.
It would be one thing if the young Wizards at Hogwarts didn't know quality, but there was actually someone provoking him.
But the excuse he had just thought of was blocked by Xiao Deng.
"I am not sick! Please do not spout nonsense."
Xiao Deng slowly stood up and said:
"If you aren't sick, take a few steps."
"Please, Professor, step forward and conduct some practical teaching."
Lockhart gritted his teeth inwardly; how could a student like him step on his head?
He probably just wanted to show off and steal the public's attention using him.
Right! That must be it!
He was a celebrity!
The more Lockhart thought about it, the more he felt his guess was correct.
Since you bumped into me, then I won't be polite!
If anyone asks later, just say he asked for it himself.
And that he had already treated him and sent him to the infirmary in time.
Just wait to be a stepping stone!
Lockhart thought this to himself, while his face maintained a proper smile.
"Then as you wish, let's find an open space to duel."
Hogwarts is huge; finding such a venue didn't take any time at all.
Before the duel even started, Lockhart began a long-winded speech about the rituals and rules of dueling.
And his brilliant commentary on the dueling field.
Xiao Deng stood to the side, just watching him.
The originally passionate duel had been turned into a personal lecture by him.
At the same time, the emotional heat of this duel was slowly declining.
Many people had seen Xiao Deng's strength; it could basically be said that he suppressed his peers single-handedly.
So the young Wizards who came here wanted to see if Xiao Deng could continue his myth.
And not listen to Lockhart here spouting nonsense.
Xiao Deng not being in a hurry didn't mean others weren't.
Ron couldn't help but start complaining.
"Are we going to fight or not? Don't delay my lunch chicken leg."
The first to respond to him was, naturally, Malfoy.
"Weasley, although you can eat like a pig, I agree with your statement."
With so many people present, Hermione tugged at Ron, and Ron then reluctantly shut his mouth.
Malfoy's side didn't say anything more either.
But Ron's words weren't too quiet or too loud; quite a few people in the audience heard it.
Lockhart naturally heard it too and felt his face couldn't hold up, but he was still trying to make excuses for himself.
"Since everyone wants to see it so much, let's begin."
"I presume Mr. Hehuan has already remembered the etiquette and key points I just mentioned."
Xiao Deng pretended to make a few gestures with Lockhart, looking quite unprofessional.
In the distance.
"Severus, you're here to watch the fun too?"
"Yes!"
"Minerva, why have you come to watch too?"
Snape and Professor McGonagall turned their heads together to look at the person behind them.
"Albus, surely you didn't come?"
Snape didn't speak, but the meaning in his eyes was clearly what Professor McGonagall meant.
Dumbledore's mouth twitched; did Minerva eat gunpowder today? So aggressive!
Turning around, Xiao Deng looked at the extremely beautiful and elegant Lockhart, the corners of his mouth slightly curling up.
"Fire in the hole!"
Xiao Deng's self-created Fire-Thunder Blast was instantaneous.
Lockhart didn't react at all and was blasted two meters away in an instant.
His entire head of hair was scorched, and his eyebrows were burned off.
There were sparks on his clothes, and they immediately caught fire.
Lockhart didn't care about the burning sensation on his face and immediately jumped up.
"Fire! Fire!"
"Help! Help!"
Xiao Deng waved his wand.
"Aguamenti: Aguamenti."
A stream of clear water appeared out of thin air and poured onto Lockhart.
He was soaked from head to toe.
Professor McGonagall's eyes widened.
"Oh, Merlin!"
"Based on my understanding of Xiao Deng's magic power intensity, he must have held back."
"I have never seen such a Spells."
Snape's emotionless voice came out.
"Self-created."
Professor McGonagall turned to look at Dumbledore.
"Albus, does this count as Dark Arts?"
Dumbledore shook his head slightly.
"Strictly speaking, no."
"Its effect is just an explosion, but with extremely high efficiency."
"The purpose is not to directly affect the human body."
"But the danger level is not low at all."
"It's a bit on the edge."
Professor McGonagall's eyes revealed gravity, thinking in her heart that she should admonish Xiao Deng later.
The surrounding young Wizards watching the fun all burst into laughter, which made Lockhart extremely embarrassed.
Over the years, he had never suffered such a great humiliation.
But with so many eyes watching him, he absolutely could not let his persona collapse at this moment.
Lockhart climbed up from the ground, revealing a smile he considered proper.
"I didn't expect this young Wizard to know such a powerful Spells."
"However, this Spells is very dangerous and should not be used lightly."
"It is only because you met a great Wizard like me that I could resist your attack."
"If it were anyone else, their life might be in danger."
Professor McGonagall in the distance frowned slightly.
Xiao Deng clearly held back against him, yet he still puffed himself up like this.
Such words and behavior were simply outrageous.
Professor McGonagall was just about to go and argue, but saw a change on the field.
Lockhart pretended to be relaxed and patted the black soot on his body that wouldn't wipe off.
"This young Wizard's control is a bit lacking."
"Then let another young Wizard come up."
"I will manage the degree of force."
No one on the scene was a fool; how could they not see Lockhart's embarrassment?
But he was still putting on an act.
Lockhart looked at the cheering and laughing crowd below, thinking they were moved by his gentlemanly demeanor.
Among them, there was one boy who was the most lively, cheering and jumping up and down with his hands and feet.
Lockhart silently chose this candidate.
If this young Wizard liked him, he shouldn't use too much force and make things difficult for him.
Then he could win a match and barely save his face as a Professor.
By the way, he would use a set of rhetoric to encourage this young Wizard he had chosen.
Then the title of the most intimate and kindest Professor would be his.
One must know that Hogwarts is a world-class magic academy.
Once the Hogwarts market was opened, was there any fear of not having capital to brag about in the future?
The more Lockhart thought about it, the more excited he became, trying his best to maintain the smile on his face.
"That young Wizard, please come on stage; I will guide your duel."
Neville pushed Seamus next to him.
"Seamus, it seems he is calling you."
Chapter 94 Mandrake
Seamus was still unable to extricate himself from Xiao Deng's performance.
He knew that Xiao Deng had held back.
He had seen battles with much bigger commotions than this.
Hearing Neville's words, Seamus stared at him blankly, looking completely bewildered.
What did he mean by calling him?
Xiao Deng adjusted his clothes, walked slowly off the stage, and came to Seamus's side.
"Don't doubt it, he is calling for you."
"No need to hold back; with your magic, even at full power, you won't kill him."
Hearing this, Seamus felt slightly more at ease.
As long as it wasn't an Unforgivable Curse, most external injuries could be healed with magic.
And since the Fire-Thunder Blast just happened to cause external injuries, as long as he didn't die, restoring him to his original state would be a matter of minutes.
However, after Seamus stepped onto the stage, his hands still couldn't stop trembling.
Looking at Seamus, who was trembling so much he could barely hold his wand, Lockhart felt completely reassured.
He would definitely win this round; as long as he did a bit of bragging and self-promotion afterward, his image would immediately become grand again.
Seamus mimicked Xiao Deng's behavior and demeanor from just a moment ago and faced Lockhart head-on.
"Fire in the hole!"
In the distance, Dumbledore and the two others frowned in unison.
But after seeing Lockhart's reaction, they looked at each other and shook their heads.
"My Potion isn't finished yet."
"There are still letters to handle at the Ministry of Magic."
"I still need to organize Gryffindor's house points."
When Seamus uttered the first word, Lockhart's pupils constricted instantly.
He threw his wand away and turned to run!
Xiao Deng was speechless; was this a reaction a normal Wizard could make?
On the field, the aftermath of Seamus's blast rushed straight towards Lockhart's back, sending him flying directly.
Two seconds later, Lockhart landed heavily on the ground, grimacing in pain.
And the wand that Lockhart had just discarded was launched outward by the impact of the Fire-Thunder Blast.
Lockhart hadn't even adjusted to the pain of the fall when a piercing pain shot from his rear.
"Ah—oh—ho—ho!"
The wand was stuck in Lockhart's butt like an antenna.
The surrounding roar of laughter erupted once again.
Xiao Deng swept his divine sense over him; there were no major issues, except for the wand stuck in his butt that needed to be pulled out.
Seamus's face flushed red, and he clenched his fists.
He won, he won!
Seamus looked towards Xiao Deng's position with surprise and joy.
But at this moment, Xiao Deng had already turned and left silently.
His little companions also followed Xiao Deng as he left.
And Lockhart, still on the field, was carried away by the medical staff.
The protagonist of the stage had left, and the Professor conducting the class had also departed.
The young Wizards naturally dispersed as well.
The class was about over, and it was time to eat.
"Let's go, let's go eat."
Upon hearing Xiao Deng's words, Ron was even happier than Neville.
"Weasley really only knows how to eat!"
Ron did a 180-degree turn.
"If you've got guts, don't eat then."
"You're a pig."
"You're a reptile."
"Your dad's a pauper!"
"Your dad's a Death Eater!"
The few people who were used to this didn't take it to heart.
Even Pansy Parkinson didn't intervene between the two.
After entering the cafeteria, the two groups separated tacitly.
"Hermione, what class do we have this afternoon?"
Hermione glanced at Ron with disdain.
"You don't even know what class it is; what did you come to Hogwarts for?"
"How is this any different from dueling without a wand?"
Ron made a bitter face; his mouth had been too fast. If he had known, he wouldn't have asked Hermione.
Harry stepped in to help Ron out of the awkward situation.
"This afternoon is Herbology Class."
"Our new class."
Ron nodded to show he understood while eating a chicken leg.
But was Hermione so easily fooled?
"But having said that, Harry, your answer is much better than some pig eating a chicken leg!"
Ron just wanted to retort, but why did these words sound so familiar?
Harry, on the other hand, laughed out loud right next to them.
Ron turned his head to look at Harry.
"What did you think of?"
Harry secretly glanced at Hermione; she wasn't looking over, so he couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief.
"Do you remember when we first entered the school?"
"It was also at this dining table that you said something similar."
Ron remembered!
But he couldn't retort, because he knew that Hermione was definitely waiting for him to retort right now.
And then use the words she had already prepared to criticize him.
He shook his head, glanced at Harry, and the two nodded tacitly.
Hermione is really difficult to deal with!
...
Professor Sprout had a very good temper and explained many characteristics of herbs.
By casting a magic spell on the herbs, they could also become one's helpers, as if they were living people.
This magical phenomenon immediately aroused the interest of the young Wizards.
"Controlling herbs as you please is still too early for you."
"You have to eat your meals one bite at a time, after all."
"Today, your task is to help the Mandrake change its soil."
"Does anyone know about the Mandrake?"
Hermione immediately raised her hand.
The other young Wizards weren't surprised; Hermione had been a top student since the start of school.
No one knew how her brain grew, but she could learn everything.
She already had a faint trend of surpassing her peers.
Of course, excluding Xiao Deng; Xiao Deng didn't feel like a normal person.
"Miss Granger, please answer."
Hermione's crisp voice rang out.
"It is one of the ingredients for most antidotes."
"But it is also dangerous; their crying can be fatal."
A look of admiration appeared on Professor Sprout's face.
"Very good!"
"Ten points to Gryffindor."
"Precisely because of this, you need to wear earmuffs when handling it."
"This is to reduce the harm they cause."
"So changing the soil for the Mandrake is also a dangerous task; you must be cautious."
Immediately after, she distributed a pair of earmuffs to every young Wizard.
With Xiao Deng's Nascent Soul stage divine sense, this crappy plant wasn't enough to make him take such precautions.
But in order to avoid drawing attention, he still took the earmuffs and put them on his head.
The earmuffs were tight, and the sound from the outside was indeed reduced a lot.
Professor Sprout gestured for all the young Wizards to watch carefully.
She carefully pulled the Mandrake out with one tug.
"Ah—ah—ah!"
Even through the earmuffs, some of the sound still came through.
Many young Wizards started covering their earmuffs.
Professor Sprout picked up the prepared pot and stuffed the Mandrake inside.
The crying stopped.
Professor Sprout gestured for the young Wizards to take off their earmuffs.
"Did you see that?"
"It's called changing soil, but it's actually changing pots."
"The pot has already been filled with fertilizer in advance."
"So your movements must be fast, accurate, and ruthless."
"To ensure your safety, the Mandrakes prepared for you later are all in their juvenile stage."
"But you still cannot underestimate them."
"Their power can still leave you unconscious for several hours."
"Still the same thing: be cautious, cautious, and even more cautious!"
This strange little plant piqued Xiao Deng's interest.
It looked quite fun.
"Xiao Deng, you raised your hand, is there a question?"
Xiao Deng stood up slowly.
"Yes, Professor."
"Please everyone, put on your earmuffs; I have a hypothesis I want to verify."
"Professor, you should be able to cooperate with me, right?"
Professor Sprout had a good temper; it was a good thing for young Wizards to have their own ideas.
"Of course."
Chapter 95: Professor Sprout's Surprise
Xiao Deng slowly took his wand out from his Wizard robes.
He glanced at the young Wizards around him, and only after ensuring everyone had their earmuffs on did he make a move.
He pulled the Mandrake out in one go.
A sharp wail immediately resounded through the classroom.
"Aaaaah!"
Professor Sprout watched the legendary young Wizard's actions with curiosity, wanting to see what he was going to do.
Xiao Deng, unhurried, gripped his wand and poked it right into the Mandrake's throat.
"Aaaaah!"
"Ugh~"
Then, Xiao Deng pulled the wand out, and the wailing returned.
"Aaaaah!"
Xiao Deng poked his wand into the Mandrake's throat again.
"Ugh~"
He pulled it out.
"Aaaaah~"
Poke!
"Ugh~"
He pulled it out.
"Aaaaah!"
"Damn it!"
Poke!
"Ugh~"
...
After going back and forth about a dozen times, this Mandrake had completely lost its temper.
After being pulled out of the soil, it wilted and stopped crying completely.
Professor Sprout looked at Xiao Deng in astonishment.
"Merlin!"
"That is simply amazing!"
"Xiao Deng, how did you think of using this method to stop its wailing?"
"This is definitely one of the best discoveries in the Wizarding World this year."
"Come find me after class later, and I will take you to see Headmaster Dumbledore."
"There will certainly be a place for you in this year's professional academic journal for magic."
Xiao Deng waved his wand and used Scourgify to shake off the soil from it.
In fact, this idea wasn't Xiao Deng's original invention.
The inspiration came from George feeding Ron a sausage.
The expression Ron made when refusing it at that time made Xiao Deng find it quite funny.
"Alright, Professor."
"As for how I thought of it, it was just a spur-of-the-moment idea."
"Since you were there, Professor, I just wanted to see if it would work."
Professor Sprout grabbed Xiao Deng excitedly.
"Clearly, you succeeded!"
"This is absolutely a great discovery."
Seeing Xiao Deng's confused expression, she then explained it to him.
"Because of the nature of the Mandrake, there are indeed quite a few people who get accidentally injured."
"Even though the ones used for young Wizards are seedlings, every magic school still has people injured by them every year."
"If there is a way to effectively stop it from crying randomly from the seedling stage, this will be a world-shaking discovery."
After saying this, she looked at the other young Wizards.
"Now, you are to form groups of four, and each group will receive one Mandrake."
"You are not Xiao Deng, so you must absolutely not take off your earmuffs."
Xiao Deng's mouth twitched. No, I didn't take off my earmuffs either!
Who are you guarding against?
Professor Sprout smiled at Xiao Deng and gave him a meaningful look.
Xiao Deng's discovery and method had indeed shocked Professor Sprout.
He was indeed a genius young Wizard with a very loud reputation.
But just as loud was his ability to stir up trouble.
Although it was often not his fault, problems tended to arise whenever he was around; this was a consensus among the Professors.
His ability in this regard was not the slightest bit weaker than those two from Weasley Family.
Due to Professor Sprout's extra caution, not a single young Wizard was injured in today's class.
No, there was one; Xiao Deng's heart was hurt by Professor Sprout's defensiveness.
After class, Professor Sprout couldn't wait to take Xiao Deng to find Dumbledore.
Dumbledore, wearing his glasses, listened to what Professor Sprout said and turned to look at Xiao Deng.
"You finally did something good!"
Xiao Deng's face darkened. So, I haven't been doing good deeds?
Xiao Deng held out his hand straight.
"No reward for doing a good deed?"
The teasing expression on Dumbledore's face froze.
He glanced at Professor Sprout, then took a lemon sherbet from his drawer.
Dumbledore looked at Professor Sprout.
"I think this matter is a very good thing."
"You can handle this matter with full authority."
"If you need any help, you can come to me at any time."
"Such a major discovery, which can basically benefit the vast majority of Wizards, might even be awarded the Order of Merlin."
"The journal paper you write must be done seriously."
"This is also an honor for Hogwarts."
Professor Sprout readily agreed.
She was a professional Professor who could turn simple things into extremely professional and clear text.
"You may head back now; I still have words for Xiao Deng."
Watching Professor Sprout leave, Dumbledore then looked at Xiao Deng.
"I didn't expect you to have such a talent."
"Your talent is truly unparalleled."
"How about coming to Hogwarts to be a Professor after you graduate?"
Xiao Deng hurriedly waved his hands.
"Would Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape let me come?"
Dumbledore laughed out loud.
"You really shouldn't say that, even though you were brought back by Professor McGonagall."
"And you are from Gryffindor, but she really gets a headache when she sees you."
"However, I must say something off-topic."
"You only taught that Fire-Thunder Blast to Seamus, right?"
Xiao Deng nodded slightly.
Dumbledore sighed deeply.
"That's good."
"Try not to cast that spell in front of people again."
"This spell is a bit questionable."
"If the Ministry of Magic investigates, there will be very troublesome consequences."
Xiao Deng indicated that he understood; he didn't want to get involved in such trouble.
After all, he hadn't figured out Lord Voldemort yet; if he got messed up by the Ministry of Magic first, Lord Voldemort would probably laugh his nose off.
"There is a question I would like to ask you."
Dumbledore immediately became interested; a question thought of by a genius Wizard must be very interesting.
"I thought of something the last time I participated in Quidditch."
"Why is it a flying broomstick?"
"Can't it be a flying stool?"
"A flying Peeves?"
"A flying Dumbledore?"
...
Dumbledore couldn't listen to the examples that followed.
What on earth is a flying Dumbledore!
Professor McGonagall was right; this brat never has a day of peace.
He even wanted to ride him to participate in Quidditch; that is simply turning the world upside down!
"Stop, stop, stop! You haven't even graduated yet, why are you giving so many examples?"
"As for why it is a broomstick, that is a historical legacy issue."
"It can also be considered a kind of inheritance of cultural spirit."
"Back in the Middle Ages, it was not as peaceful as it is now."
"Witches were often subjected to cruel persecution."
"The rise of the Witch hunts made it difficult for Wizards."
"If it was discovered that they had magic at a very young age, even the young Wizard's parents would betray them."
"So, many witches were forced to disguise themselves as housewives."
"In order to exchange for living space and time to grow."
"And the most handy, most inconspicuous, and easiest way to get by was naturally the broomstick used for cleaning."
"Later, to commemorate this inventor, most subsequent flying props were broomsticks."
"After so many years of research and iteration, there is already a very mature industrial chain."
"Although there are other forms of flying props, such as magic carpets."
"But the broomstick is still the most acceptable and widely used prop."
Chapter 96: Hermione Breaks the Silence
Xiao Deng also understood the reason for the broom's formation.
It gradually evolved from being a tool of convenience and concealment into a totem of spiritual and cultural significance.
"Are there no other flying props then?"
Dumbledore slowly stood up.
"There are some, but production is too limited."
"Those who buy them do so for the novelty."
"After all, this stuff isn't cheap."
"New types of flying props involve rune filling, magic input, balance adjustments, and a whole series of technical calibrations that have to be started from scratch."
"The costs are naturally high, so the selling price is even steeper; there are few buyers, and the market is small."
"Often, manufacturing them results in a loss."
"But brooms have an assembly line; once you get the process down for one, the rest are basically all the same."
"The cost-performance ratio is maximized!"
Xiao Deng had originally thought about getting himself a sword to wear at his waist; it would look quite dashing.
Wouldn't that look simply mesmerizing to little Hermione?
But considering the poor cost-performance ratio and the fact that it would probably need to be custom-made, he decided to forget it.
As a Nascent Soul peak cultivator, he really didn't have much practical use for that thing anyway.
By the time he left Dumbledore's Headmasters Office, it was already dinner time.
This old man was really not particular about his hospitality; he only gave him a candy after all that time and didn't even offer him a meal.
Arriving at the dining hall, he instantly found Harry and his group.
Just as he sat down next to Hermione, her little hand was already pinching Xiao Deng's waist.
"Where did you go?"
"I just came from the Headmasters Office; Professor Sprout took me there, didn't you know?"
Harry and Ron exchanged a look.
Hermione was becoming more and more controlling now.
Before, it was lecturing about studies; later, it was criticizing him for fooling around.
Now, she even had to ask where he went!
Hermione was really difficult to deal with!
They knew, but they weren't saying anything.
Better to let Xiao Deng take the heat; anyone else would have folded immediately.
"But I have another piece of news to tell you."
"After Malfoy's persistent requests, I've agreed to restart the training group."
"Harry, Ron, and Neville have all agreed."
"Now it depends on your attitude; if you don't want to come, sleeping in the Dormitory is no problem either."
Hermione looked at the grinning Xiao Deng and felt a bit angry.
"I'm not going!"
"It's already kind of me not to report you for the greater good!"
Hermione glared at Xiao Deng with her big eyes; she was actually the last one to know.
Little jerk! Did he even care about her at all?
Xiao Deng didn't explain to Hermione what her image was in everyone else's minds.
"Neville, make a trip later and tell Malfoy to meet at the usual spot tonight."
Neville agreed; he was already very familiar with this task.
Then Xiao Deng looked at Harry and Ron.
"If you two see Seamus when you go back to the Dormitory later, tell him I'm looking for him tonight."
Both of them agreed.
But the first one to leave the table was actually Neville.
Harry and Ron were initially a bit puzzled.
But after Neville finished eating, he still grabbed two chicken legs before leaving.
Harry and Ron exchanged a look and immediately understood what Neville meant.
Hermione was still angry; if they didn't run now, when would they?
The two of them also instantly launched themselves from their seats and left quickly.
Of course, Ron naturally didn't forget to grab two chicken legs like Neville before leaving.
Xiao Deng smiled, not knowing whether to say these people were perceptive or just afraid of Hermione.
"Let's go, my dear lady!"
"We can talk as we walk."
Xiao Deng offered an out, and Hermione finally stood up and followed Xiao Deng out.
The place they were walking to certainly couldn't be somewhere others would see them.
The safest place, of course, was the Forbidden Forest.
"Are you really not coming?"
"You can improve."
Hermione's earlier toughness had completely vanished, but she still didn't answer Xiao Deng's question.
"Xiao Deng, you won't leave me, right?"
Xiao Deng didn't answer immediately but just took Hermione's hand.
"Why do you have this fear?"
Hermione was silent for a moment, adjusting her phrasing; she was also afraid of hurting Xiao Deng.
"The feeling you give me makes me have an illusion."
"That you could disappear from my sight at any moment."
"If one day you have to leave me, please tell me, okay?"
The surroundings were full of trees, exceptionally quiet.
Hermione's voice trembled, appearing somewhat pitiful.
Xiao Deng gently hugged Hermione.
"How could I disappear?"
"Doesn't disappearing mean dying?"
"You, Hermione Granger, are irreplaceable."
"Don't overthink it."
Hermione hugged Xiao Deng's waist, burying her little face into Xiao Deng's chest.
"You still have someone else in your heart, right?"
Xiao Deng was silent, but Hermione's voice didn't stop.
"Do you think I don't know?"
"You often have the scent of other girls on you; do you really think you've disguised it well?"
"Then wh..."
"Why I pretend not to know, and still throw myself into your arms, even on the train..."
Hermione let out a laugh, with a touch of self-mockery.
"I don't know when, but you already walked into my heart."
"My time is full of you."
"I was going crazy not seeing you during those two weeks of vacation."
"Mom discovered my state and talked to me a lot."
"I told her about your excellence, told her about your brilliance."
"Told her about the girls surrounding you."
"Mom listened quietly."
"I thought she would oppose me, but she didn't."
"Mom said, if I can be certain that you are someone who can reach the top of the mountain, then you are indeed excellent."
"If I can be certain that you are someone who can transcend eras, or even change the world, then I cannot tie you down."
"In this era, no one and no family can achieve stability."
"The Muggle world is about to fall apart; if you can give me a home in the magic world, that's good too."
"Even if it's a large family, as long as I can be sure that you have me in your heart, it's not a bad thing."
"Everything depends on my own decision."
Hermione said a lot, and Xiao Deng's arms tightened even more.
"You have always been in my heart, no need to doubt it."
"If in the future..."
Speaking to this point, Xiao Deng's mouth was blocked.
"Don't say it!"
"I trust you."
"So, can you let me meet them?"
Xiao Deng kissed Hermione's forehead.
"Of course."
"Tonight, I'll take you to a place first."
"Hiss!"
Hermione's little hand was already pinching the tender flesh on Xiao Deng's waist.
"I knew it, you definitely have someone."
Xiao Deng bared his teeth and clutched his waist; he had been careless and got pecked by an eagle.
She had actually learned how to fish!
A little Wizard not practicing Spells but looking at military strategy instead!
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng triumphantly.
"You think only you are smart!"
"Genius? Hah!"
The damage was minimal, but the insult was extreme!
"But, where are you taking me tonight?"
Xiao Deng grabbed Hermione's slender waist, a hint of a smile flashing in his eyes.
"You'll know when we get there."
"Now we should go back."
"Your training is about to start!"
Chapter 97: Starting the Training Group Again
Inside the abandoned classroom.
Xiao Deng brought Hermione and opened the door; everyone was already there.
Ron's big mouth couldn't be controlled immediately.
"Yo, who is this?"
"Xiao Deng, introduce her to us quickly."
Xiao Deng glanced at Hermione, the corners of his mouth curling up.
"Her name is Hermione Granger."
Ron pointed at Xiao Deng and yelled:
"No, you're lying!"
"Miss Know-It-All said today that she wasn't coming."
"She definitely isn't Hermione!"
The others were amused by Ron.
Hermione pointed her wand at Ron.
"After being beaten by Peeves, do you want seconds?"
Ron realized what was happening, his face flashing with panic.
"No, no, no!"
"Malfoy told me to say that!"
Malfoy looked flustered and glanced at Xiao Deng.
"Weasley, don't talk nonsense!"
"When did I tell you to say that? Are you stupid from eating chicken legs?"
"Shut up, you reptile!"
"You gluttonous pig, you're slandering me!"
"Your dad is a Death Eater!"
"Your dad is a pauper!"
...
The others covered their foreheads again; these two were at it again.
While everyone was watching the show, Xiao Deng left the classroom silently.
With Xiao Deng's departure, Peeves raised the rotten eggs in his hands...
"Ah!"
Wails from inside the classroom squeezed through the door crack.
Xiao Deng felt great; this wailing sounded very comfortable.
Heh heh heh~
Not long after going out, he saw Seamus standing in the shadows.
This kid had talent and motivation; he might be someone in the future.
"Let's go."
"There isn't much time left to teach you."
The two quickly entered the Forbidden Forest and arrived at the lakeside where they had practiced before.
As soon as they arrived, the magical creatures resting by the lake left while grumbling.
"Everyone has their own talents."
"After the basic education at Hogwarts, everyone needs to discover their own strengths."
"This is the path one should take."
Seamus lowered his head and sighed.
"But I seem to be lacking in everything."
"No matter the subject, I'm far behind."
"If it weren't for the Professor being lenient, I'm afraid I wouldn't even pass."
"As everyone knows, Professor Snape doesn't like Gryffindor."
"But when grading Hermione, he doesn't hesitate at all."
"He watched my cauldron for a full five minutes."
Xiao Deng patted Seamus on the shoulder.
"Don't be discouraged."
"What do you think of Lockhart?"
Speaking of Lockhart, Seamus snorted.
"He's just so-so!"
"He brags about how amazing he is, but he's actually just an embroidered pillow—looks good but useless."
"I heard from others that he made a fool of himself in class again."
"He brought out a weak sprite and claimed it was the most terrifying creature."
"It caused chaos immediately after he let it out; he had zero crowd control."
Xiao Deng smiled and looked at the pitch-black lake water.
"See? Many people think he's not that great."
"But a person like that won the Order of Merlin."
"And his level of Obliviate is very high; he has the highest recorded rank in the Ministry of Magic."
"So, just focus on doing what you are good at."
Seamus nodded; Xiao Deng's words made sense.
Rather than barely graduating from Hogwarts and becoming an unremarkable Wizard.
It would be better to specialize in one field like Lockhart.
Just don't ruin your reputation like he does.
Seamus originally wanted Xiao Deng to teach him a few more useful Spells.
Now it seemed unnecessary; if you don't master them, learning too much will just split your focus.
"I understand!"
Immediately, Seamus started practicing Fire-Thunder Blast.
"Bang!"
"Bang!"
"Bang!"
Before long, magical creatures came to complain.
"What are you doing? Can't a person sleep?"
"Damn it! Xiao Deng! It's so late now!"
"How long are you going to keep going 'boom'? I haven't slept well!"
Xiao Deng twitched his mouth; he really didn't expect so many neighbors to come and complain.
Seamus wiped sweat from his forehead.
"Xiao Deng, don't you feel like there are more animal noises now?"
Xiao Deng glanced at Seamus; it was because of him!
"Alright, let's go back."
"You're affecting someone's sleep; if you keep blasting, they'll get angry."
Hearing this, Seamus's hair stood on end, and he immediately hid behind Xiao Deng.
"We won't really die here, right?"
Xiao Deng didn't respond; this kid had too much inner drama.
Xiao Deng didn't hold back; he wrapped Seamus up and left the Forbidden Forest immediately.
By the time Seamus recovered, he was already inside Hogwarts.
"You go back first, I still have things to do."
Seamus stared blankly as Xiao Deng disappeared into the darkness, feeling amazed.
What kind of magic is this? It's too amazing.
But he probably couldn't figure it out even if he racked his brain.
...
"I can't take it anymore!"
"Peeves seems to have endless energy!"
Ron sat on the ground, complaining lifelessly.
Neville nodded in agreement immediately.
"Not only is he tireless, but he's also very nasty."
"That rotten egg hit my butt, and it felt like I really pooped my pants."
Harry had a dark face as he got up from the ground.
"You two stop talking. You're just pretending; my butt was actually hit with feces water."
"Even if I didn't poop, it's still poop!"
Malfoy heard this and walked over to Harry.
"Didn't notice that. Let me see."
"I'll clean it up for you."
Harry thought, if he had to stick his butt out, wouldn't that be a bit weird?
Hermione looked at them with disgust.
"You guys are disgusting, and you're saying it out loud!"
Malfoy sneered.
"Granger, take the vegetable leaf off your head before you speak."
Hermione touched her head, and sure enough, pulled off a vegetable leaf.
Her face turned red, but she stopped talking.
Silence for two seconds.
"Hahaha!"
Several people laughed together.
Peeves saw the young Wizards had no fight left, felt bored, and slipped away.
"Let's go back."
Everyone had no objections and walked towards the door.
Pushing the door open, everyone was stunned.
A person was standing far away.
It was Xiao Deng!
Xiao Deng waved his hand, the disheveled appearance of everyone disappeared, and their smelly clothes no longer smelled.
"It's about time for today."
"You guys go back first."
Night wandering isn't safe; better to return to the Dormitory quickly.
Without saying much, everyone returned to their respective Dormitory.
But Harry noticed Xiao Deng hadn't moved.
"Aren't you coming back?"
"I am, but later. You guys go first."
"Alright, be safe. We're heading back."
Hermione also pretended to prepare to go back to the Dormitory.
After everyone else had left, Hermione turned back.
But Xiao Deng was nowhere to be seen.
Is this little jerk lying to her?
Just as Hermione's anger was about to explode, a warm hand wrapped around her waist from behind.
"Are you getting impatient?"
Chapter 98: Taking Hermione to Find Myrtle
Hermione turned around, blushing, and tapped her little fist against Xiao Deng's chest.
"I thought you had left!"
Xiao Deng lowered his head and gave her a light peck.
"When have I ever gone back on my word?"
"Look how smelly you are; I'm taking you to a relaxing place."
After the Scourgify spell, the smell had long since vanished; he was just teasing Hermione.
But Hermione actually thought she still smelled, blushing and repeatedly sniffing herself.
"There isn't, where is it still?"
Looking up, she saw Xiao Deng's playful gaze.
"Are you playing with me?"
Xiao Deng held Hermione's shoulders and looked at her seriously.
"Yeah, I really want to!"
Hermione froze, and then her face instantly flushed red.
But before Hermione could retort, he immediately pulled her along.
"You aren't taking me to find your little lover, are you?"
"Isn't that what you wanted to see?"
"I'm taking you there now!"
Not long after, the two arrived at the second-floor bathroom.
"Is Myrtle here?"
Myrtle jumped out immediately. After seeing Hermione, she dove back into the faucet.
"Myrtle, don't be shy; I brought you here today to meet someone."
Myrtle poked her head out from the faucet, secretly watching Xiao Deng.
"Who is she?"
Xiao Deng shrugged and straightened his clothes.
"Let me formally introduce you two."
"Her name is Hermione, and she is the first wife."
"Her name is Myrtle, and she is the concubine."
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng in disbelief.
For a moment, she couldn't speak, not knowing what words to use to describe her inner feelings.
A concubine, and it's a ghost?
She had to compete for favor with a ghost; this was truly shocking.
At the very least, couldn't you find a normal person, Xiao Deng?
Xiao Deng's actions made Hermione laugh in anger.
"You, you're really something else!"
Xiao Deng didn't answer Hermione and looked at Myrtle.
"Let's go to the Bathhouse."
Hermione asked, confused:
"What Bathhouse?"
Xiao Deng stroked Hermione's hair and shook his head.
"You'll know when we get there."
The two people and one ghost arrived at the Bathhouse room just like that.
Hermione widened her eyes as she looked at everything inside.
"This is too luxurious!"
Xiao Deng raised his hand and used spiritual power to seal the bathroom.
Now no one could come in!
Xiao Deng got into the water; the temperature was just right.
"Hurry and come down. After finishing training, don't you want to take a bath and relax?"
Hearing Xiao Deng call her, Hermione felt a bit embarrassed.
This was bathing, bathing together; it was just too...
Myrtle floated over and winked at Hermione.
"Xiao Deng's physique is still very good!"
Hermione's face turned even redder. How could she not know whether Xiao Deng's physique was good or not?
In the end, under the gaze of four eyes, Hermione slowly removed her clothes.
When her little feet touched the warm water, she felt every pore on her body open up.
She got into the water, blushing, but still gave Xiao Deng a glare.
Xiao Deng walked over and put his arms around Hermione.
The two were instantly skin-to-skin.
"Be careful, there's a ghost watching!"
Myrtle sat on top of Xiao Deng's head.
"Just pretend I don't exist."
"I haven't seen a scene like this in all these years."
"I'm learning too."
Hermione's face turned even redder!
"You are truly shameless, not even sparing a ghost."
"Other boys are like little puppy dogs, but you only embody one word."
"Dog!"
Xiao Deng put his hand into the water and replied:
"Right, right, right, I only embody one word."
"The other two words are taken by you."
Hermione slapped Xiao Deng directly on the chest.
"Screw you!"
"Then why can't you get enough of it!"
Xiao Deng's lips curled slightly:
"You're right!"
Then Xiao Deng held his breath and submerged his entire head into the water.
The sound of surging water in the bathroom gradually filled the entire room.
Myrtle was curious at first.
After a few minutes, she couldn't stand it anymore; it was simply too unbearable, so she dove into the faucet and didn't come out again.
...
Hermione sat limply in the Bathhouse, looking exhausted.
"No more, no more!"
"Why are you like a dog!"
Xiao Deng kissed Hermione on the side of her face.
"Even if you wanted to, there's no time left."
"We have to go back."
Hermione closed her eyes and ignored Xiao Deng.
Xiao Deng stood up and carried Hermione out in a princess carry.
Magic flashed around their bodies; as soon as they came out, all the water on them vanished.
He gently placed Hermione on a stool.
Panties, socks, undershirt... Xiao Deng put them on Hermione one by one.
Hermione said with a blushing face and closed eyes:
"Come to my house during the summer vacation."
Xiao Deng froze for a moment, then didn't hesitate.
"Okay!"
Hermione opened her eyes and cupped Xiao Deng's face.
"Aren't you going to ask why?"
Xiao Deng helped Hermione put on her shoes.
"Do you want it to be in your room?"
Hermione immediately kicked Xiao Deng.
"You're such a dog!"
"Can't it be to meet my family?"
Xiao Deng showed a gentle smile.
"Of course!"
"Myrtle?"
Myrtle came out of the faucet standing on her head.
"Master, I'm here!"
Xiao Deng frowned at Myrtle's pose.
"Why are you like that?"
When Xiao Deng brought this up, Myrtle finally realized.
"Isn't it because I'm afraid of having a nosebleed!"
"You two were simply too intense!"
"I felt like the water level in the pool even rose."
As soon as she finished speaking, it drew a coquettish scolding from Hermione.
"Myrtle!"
Myrtle shrieked and floated up to the candles.
"It's too embarrassing!"
Xiao Deng patted his clothes and waved his hand to open the pool's drainage system.
"Alright, we're heading back first."
"I'll come play with you later."
Walking on the way back, Hermione held Xiao Deng's hand.
"What about the others?"
"Don't you plan on letting me meet them?"
Xiao Deng froze, then smiled.
This girl is really persistent; she must meet them.
"Meet them, of course you can meet them."
"It's just not very suitable today."
"Let's find another opportunity."
"Let me remind you, work harder on your studies recently."
"Keep improving!"
Hermione looked at Xiao Deng suspiciously.
"What do you mean by that?"
"What happened?"
Xiao Deng stroked Hermione's hair; this girl is quite sharp.
"You don't need to worry about that for now; don't fret so much, just focus on your studies."
Hermione stood on her tiptoes, and her red lips landed on the corner of Xiao Deng's mouth.
"You promised me, you can't run away!"
Xiao Deng wrapped his arm around Hermione's slender waist and kissed her back.
"Of course, I said it."
"Go back to sleep quickly; it was quite exhausting today."
Hermione walked towards her Dormitory, looking back every few steps.
Xiao Deng flashed and returned to his Dormitory as well.
But Harry and the others hadn't gone to sleep yet.
Harry seemed to have something to say, looking hesitant.
"Harry, if you have something to say, just say it."
Harry looked at Ron, who was sitting on his bed, and finally gathered his courage.
"Xiao Deng, I don't want to go back to my aunt's house for the summer vacation."
"I asked Professor McGonagall, and Hogwarts doesn't let people stay during the summer vacation."
"Can I stay at your place?"
Chapter 99: The Twins' Progress
Xiao Deng sat on his bed, looking at Harry.
"We'll talk about it when the time comes."
"I need to make some arrangements."
Harry and Ron exchanged a glance, neither choosing to press for more details after such an ambiguous answer.
Xiao Deng naturally had his reasons for saying that.
Lord Voldemort had left Hogwarts, and Hogwarts ushered in a moment of peace.
The next day, the Weasley Brothers came sniffing around.
"Xiao Deng, you're really something."
"I heard you can even prank a Mandrake."
"Pulling it in and out!"
"The wailing!"
"I heard that when the wand was pulled out, it was still covered in soil."
Xiao Deng's mouth twitched. Damn it, why did it sound so wrong coming from them!
It sounded as if he had done something to the Mandrake.
"It was nothing, just a whim."
The Weasley Brothers looked at Xiao Deng with even more admiration.
"Xiao Deng, take a look."
"These are some props we've improved."
"If we add an anti-theft system, I think this item would be perfect."
Xiao Deng picked up the item in their hands.
"Out of Galleons, right?"
"I'll give you an additional thousand Galleons."
"Get at least three products made, and add anti-theft features."
"Then your products can hit the shelves."
"As for the storefront, I've already handled it for you, so don't worry."
In their eyes, Xiao Deng had just fiddled with the gadget in his hand.
And then made a decision that surprised them.
The two exchanged a glance, both believing this was Xiao Deng's trust and support for them.
In reality, Xiao Deng had already scanned it with his divine sense, and the internal structure was completely revealed in his mind.
Xiao Deng understood the market; the current anti-theft measures were actually considered high-level.
The cost to break through would be very high, so even if they did break it, the competitor's price wouldn't be low.
Compared to his primary source, there was simply no comparison.
The only problem was that the shop currently had no one to look after it.
Xiao Deng immediately thought of Avery.
Isn't he getting old? He doesn't have the energy to continue working or caring for people, but looking after a shop shouldn't be a problem, right?
However, the prejudice against Muggles in Diagon Alley is still significant.
I'll ask Dumbledore about this later.
"Come find me after you've designed this thing."
"Make a thousand of each of the three items first to test the waters in the market."
"Come ask me for more money when you run out."
"I'll take you to see the storefront then."
Fred excitedly patted Xiao Deng on the shoulder.
"Xiao Deng, you are truly our benefactor."
"A lucky star!" George echoed.
"You know our mother really doesn't like us doing these things."
Xiao Deng waved his hand and smiled gently.
"Go ahead and do it with peace of mind."
"I'll handle Mr. and Mrs. Weasley for you."
"But you have to put in the effort. If you mess it up, you two can wait for a beating from Molly Weasley."
The twins took the money, made solemn promises, and left happily.
Xiao Deng also headed to Dumbledore's office.
After listening to Xiao Deng's request, Dumbledore fell silent.
Allowing a Muggle into the Wizarding World is actually not very appropriate.
"My child, I'm afraid I can't help you with this."
"The Ministry of Magic's Statute of Secrecy must still be observed."
"Once a precedent is set, it will be very difficult to manage later."
"If I punish you, then what's the difference between that and not letting him in?"
"If I don't punish you, the law becomes a mere formality."
"The Wizarding World is already facing decline; if someone were to exploit this, the consequences would be unimaginable."
"I'm sorry, I cannot help you with this favor."
If even Dumbledore couldn't do it, then this matter might be quite tricky.
It seems Xiao Deng will need to find a way himself.
If all else fails, he could just hire someone to help them sell it and pay them a wage.
Originally, Xiao Deng thought about finding a House-elf, but he dismissed the idea.
The status of a House-elf is too low, and there might be troublemaking customers.
When conflicts arise, most House-elves do not have the ability to handle them.
Without immediate handling, the problem would escalate indefinitely.
Furthermore, if a House-elf is bullied, whatever the boss does is wrong.
Apologizing would be like cutting off one's own arm, lowering one's prestige.
Not apologizing would make the shop's attitude a stereotype, affecting future development.
Compared to House-elves, Wizards might actually look more favorably upon a Muggle.
Moreover, Xiao Deng plans to make the business big and strong; using a House-elf would be considered a dark history in the eyes of Wizards.
Building a high-end, classy, and upscale brand image is something that must not be compromised.
Thinking of this, Xiao Deng even dismissed the idea of bringing Avery over.
If all else fails, he'll just hire a team to manage it directly.
Coming out of Dumbledore's office, he felt that progress was a bit slow, which was troubling.
He let out a deep sigh and decided to stop thinking about it for now; there was still some time before they finished making them.
In the meantime, inspiration will surely come.
There were no classes in the afternoon, so Xiao Deng immediately went to find Hermione.
Hermione was reading frantically in the Library; she remembered Xiao Deng's reminder.
Although she didn't know exactly what Xiao Deng was worried about, she knew Xiao Deng wouldn't harm her.
Moreover, she was willing to learn, which aligned with her own inner desires.
Hermione stretched, the curves of her figure faintly visible as her clothes shifted.
Just as she looked up, Hermione's eyes lit up.
"Xiao Deng, when did you get here?"
Xiao Deng closed the book in his hand and revealed a gentle smile.
"Just now; I saw you were studying, so I didn't disturb you."
Hermione wrinkled her little nose; she didn't believe Xiao Deng had just arrived.
Hermione brought her books and sat beside Xiao Deng, a faint, sweet fragrance wafting into Xiao Deng's nostrils.
"Xiao Deng, look at this; I don't quite understand it."
Xiao Deng smiled slightly and began to explain it to her.
"This one!"
"First do this, then that, and finally..."
After explaining to Hermione in the Library for a long time, Xiao Deng checked the time.
"It's about time, let's go eat."
"We still have to train after eating!"
Hermione held Xiao Deng's arm and raised her chin proudly.
"We have learned how to cooperate now."
"We can already resist Peeves for ten minutes."
Xiao Deng affectionately hugged Hermione, kissed her earlobe, and whispered:
"Well done!"
"My reward to you is to not return to the Dormitory tonight."
Just from that, Hermione felt her legs go a bit weak.
Her face flushed red to the tips of her ears, and she used all her strength to barely push Xiao Deng away.
"What reward? I don't know, and I don't want it."
Xiao Deng's fingertips grazed Hermione's tailbone.
"Really? You don't want it?"
Hermione ignored Xiao Deng and walked out of the Library with her books, doing her own thing.
Xiao Deng followed behind her at a leisurely pace, not rushing her.
Just as they entered the dining hall, they ran into Harry and the others; Hermione almost bumped into Harry.
Ron pointed at Hermione carelessly and said:
"Miss Know-It-All, why are you running so fast? Are you afraid someone behind you will cast the Leg-Locker Curse on you?"
Xiao Deng, who was trailing behind, happened to hear this, and the corners of his mouth curled up slightly.
Ron really is a godsend!