Chapter 234: Preparing for the Unexpected
Chapter 234: Preparing for the Unexpected
After the banquet, Kyle casually glanced at the spot where Chris and Diana had previously been... It was empty, indicating that they had already left early.
Following the banquet, all the students returned to their respective dormitories, except for Kyle, who was asked to stay behind.
The banquet was merely a part of the honorary ceremony; the most important part was yet to come.
"Would you like to join me for some tea?" Dumbledore suggested with a smile.
"Of course, I could use a drink right now."
Michael Filch nodded, "To be honest, this castle seems to possess an incomprehensible magic. Ever since I arrived, my appetite has significantly improved."
His earlier remark about leaving early was obviously a joke, and Dumbledore wouldn't actually invite these old folks to become Defense Against the Dark Arts professors... That's an opportunity reserved for the younger generation.
"Albus, do you have any whiskey? I could really use a sip."
"How about some Flaming Whiskey? I just received a bottle for Christmas."
"That would be perfect."
...
The Headmaster's Office on the eighth floor now featured a long table and several soft chairs with backrests.
Various beverages were displayed on the table, including steaming tea, whiskey, mead, butterbeer, and lemonade.
These were likely purchased by house-elves from the Three Broomsticks, as their magic, unlike that of wizards, allowed them to use Apparition even within the castle.
The group casually sat down, chatting happily while enjoying their drinks.
As the guest of honor, Kyle was naturally the center of their conversation.
Although Fudge attempted several times to steer the conversation elsewhere, Dumbledore always sensed his intention and subtly redirected the topic back to Kyle.
Kyle understood his intent.
On their way to the eighth floor earlier, Dumbledore had whispered to him, suggesting that this was a rare opportunity to meet renowned wizards outside of school, which would greatly assist Kyle in expanding his network.
Kyle understood the importance of networking in the wizarding world. For instance, if Dumbledore hadn't known Nicolle, how could he have borrowed the Philosopher's Stone, such a useful item?
The Malfoy family's influence was also due to their intricate web of connections with most of the Ministry of Magic officials, although this network was primarily woven with Galleons. Without this crucial resource, the web would collapse.
However, it was undeniable that while this web remained intact, it helped the Malfoys resolve various big and small troubles in their life and business.
This was also the primary reason why Draco Malfoy could still thrive despite his suspected Death Eater affiliation.
Additionally, even Mr. Weasley had a similar situation. Despite his seemingly insignificant position, he maintained excellent relationships with most Ministry officials, including some department heads like Ludovic Bagman (Department of Magical Games and Sports), Bartemius Crouch (Department of International Magical Cooperation), and Amelia Bones (Department of Magical Law Enforcement).
Chris, however, was an exception, as he was only a deputy.
A few days ago, Chris unintentionally mentioned that Mr. Weasley was working on a new bill, apparently related to Muggle protection and stricter control over Dark Magic artifacts.
Judging by Chris's tone, this new bill seemed close to being passed.
If Mr. Weasley were just an ordinary employee in the Misuse of Muggle Artifacts Office, Fudge, given his character, would likely not even spare him a glance, let alone approve a bill proposed by him.
For Michael Filch and the others, they were also eager to meet Kyle, the youngest member of the Merlin Order.
The two parties hit it off instantly, and the conversation flowed smoothly.
However, Cornelius Fudge and Newt Scamander were exceptions.
Fudge had other matters on his mind... In his opinion, Kyle had great potential, but by the time he graduated from Hogwarts, Fudge's term would likely be coming to an end, making it unlikely for them to cross paths.
Therefore, Fudge preferred to chat with Filch or Saxia about his ideals and ambitions, hoping to leave a good impression on them.
As for Newt, it was much simpler... He had social anxiety.
The last time he was in a room with so many people was twenty years ago, so the current scene felt somewhat unfamiliar to him.
Fortunately, this situation didn't last long.
As it was already quite late, the group ended their conversation in less than half an hour.
Newt was the first to leave the Headmaster's Office.
Filch and Damocles Bellby didn't move, as Dumbledore had offered them accommodation in the castle for the night, making it more convenient to present the Merlin Medal to another recipient the next day.
The two accepted the offer gladly.
For some reason, Fudge also stayed behind.
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After leaving the Headmaster's Office, Saxia headed back to St. Mungo's... She had come to support Kyle voluntarily and didn't need to attend the honorary ceremony the next day.
After bidding her farewell, Kyle found Newt waiting for him at the corner of the stairs.
The two entered an empty room nearby, and Kyle said with surprise, "I never thought you'd come, too."
"Didn't you write in your letter that you wanted me to help take care of some troublesome little animals?"
Newt sighed. "As it happens, they sent me an invitation, asking if I wanted to come to Hogwarts with them."
"So, you agreed?"
"Yes." Newt nodded. "Receiving the Merlin Medal is worth celebrating, and I should come over. Oh, and Sasia thinks so, too."
"Thank you..." Kyle said sincerely.
Newt rarely attended gatherings with old friends, but today, he appeared in the Great Hall with hundreds of people... This was a significant challenge for his social anxiety.
However, Newt waved his hand, stopping Kyle from continuing:
"So, the little animals in your letter were Snuffles?"
"Those little guys are indeed a bit mischievous, and you need some patience when dealing with them."
"No, not Snuffles." Kyle smiled. "The little guy is adorable and not troublesome at all."
"Then what is it?" Newt was taken aback.
Apart from Snuffles, Newt couldn't think of any other magical creatures that Kyle might need his help with.
"They were smuggled in, and I took care of them for a while... Never mind, you'll see for yourself."
Kyle opened his chest and placed it on the ground.
"But before you go in, you should prepare yourself mentally; they might be a bit different from what you expect."
"Now that you mention it, I'm suddenly quite curious." Newt smiled and shook his head but didn't take Kyle's words to heart.
He had encountered all sorts of magical creatures; why would he need to prepare mentally?
(End of Chapter)
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