Chapter 246: Coincidence and Necessity (Continued)
Chapter 246: Coincidence and Necessity (Continued)
"You didn't make that bet with Katrina the last time just for this, did you?" Isabelle looked at Albert with a strange expression, completely baffled by what this guy in front of her was up to.
"Oh, you guessed it!" Albert feigned surprise. Of course, such a clumsy performance couldn't fool Isabelle's discerning eyes.
She said nothing, merely gazing calmly at Albert as if to say, 'Go on, I'm watching you.' "Ahem, well. To be honest, I'm pursuing Katrina. It's just that your sister is so stubborn that she probably won't give up without winning once," Albert casually made up an excuse.
Talking about pursuing her sister in front of her sister was a bit... stimulating. Alright, Albert wanted to see what Isabelle's reaction would be.
Isabelle's expression was complicated, without the expected anger or other intense emotional reactions. She said softly, "I don't mind if you pursue Katrina. But it's still too early, too early for Katrina!"
"Why?" Albert blurted out the question.
Of course, he wasn't asking why it was too early, but why Isabelle would agree and even seem to encourage him to pursue her sister. That was... strange. At least, in Albert's opinion, it was very strange.
This kid knows nothing about love.
If there were a twelve or thirteen-year-old kid trying to pursue her sister, Albert would beat the crap out of him.
"Because Katrina's mentality isn't mature enough," Isabelle looked up at Albert, answering his question directly. "Your mentality is already mature, but Katrina's isn't, and this will be detrimental to a relationship between you two."
"As for why I agree?" Isabelle looked at Albert, sometimes feeling that his way of thinking was very different.
"Why?" Albert was indeed curious about the reason.
"After all, you are the most outstanding student in Hogwarts, without a doubt." Isabelle's words were a direct acknowledgment of Albert's talent and abilities.
In fact, she wasn't wrong. Albert was indeed the most talented student in the entire school, after all, no one else had a cheat system like his.
"Ahem, I was just joking," Albert's expression stiffened, and he smiled awkwardly at Isabelle.
"I know, it's obvious." Isabelle nodded, not getting angry but instead finding it interesting.
'If you knew, why would you still say those things? Are you hinting that you agree with me pursuing your sister?' Albert suddenly had a strange feeling. 'So my values haven't completely assimilated with this world yet! Still holding on to the old ways of thinking, no wonder sometimes I seem out of place.' "But ten galleons, you're quite generous!" Isabelle sighed softly. "Thank you for that. I haven't seen Katrina that happy in a long time."
"Knowledge is always valuable, and in a sense, I'm not losing out either!" Albert waved his hand, indicating the notes on the eagle ring riddle in his hand. "One day, when I compile all the eagle ring riddles I've collected into a book, I won't just make ten galleons, but even a hundred galleons. I'll definitely make a profit."
Isabelle found Albert's way of thinking even more peculiar, but he wasn't wrong. Knowledge was valuable, and one could indeed do as he said, but many people just didn't think that way.
"You continue, I'll wait here. After we enter the chamber, I'll tell you what I've discovered," Isabelle brought the topic back on track and pulled a chair to sit beside him, quietly watching Albert as he knocked on the door and answered the eagle ring riddle.
To be honest, the remaining riddles weren't difficult, at least not for Albert. It was like solving a bunch of problems, and the more he solved, the faster and more confident he became. In less than half an hour, Albert had answered all the riddles. After confirming the completion of the "Greedy Plunderer" task on his task panel, his mood improved even further. However, Albert didn't rush to claim the task reward. Instead, he pushed open the door to the chamber and entered with Isabelle, who had been waiting patiently.
"What secret did you discover?" Albert walked to the wall, his hand brushing over the ancient magical text, and he couldn't help but ask.
"What about you? What did you find?" Isabelle didn't answer immediately, instead asking him a question.
"You first, then me," Albert gestured for her to go ahead.
"Alright, you know about the Ravenclaw eagle ring riddle," Isabelle stood beside Albert, staring at the ancient magical text on the wall, and said softly, "We need to answer the eagle ring riddle to get in."
Albert raised his eyebrows but remained quiet as he listened to Isabelle continue.
"Just like the first hurdle outside," Isabelle turned to look at Albert and went on, "If you get it wrong, you'll just have to wait for someone else to get it right, and then you can learn something new. That's Ravenclaw."
"Learn something new? So, you think Ravenclaw wants those who enter the chamber later to gain knowledge?" Albert immediately grasped the key point, not because of Isabelle's hint, but because he had thought about it himself.
"Yes, you're indeed smart, figuring it out so quickly," Isabelle nodded. "What about your discovery?"
"Ancient magical text. Perhaps, Ravenclaw wants us to master the proper use of ancient magical text," Albert's fingers brushed over the text on the wall as he murmured, "It is said that Runic is a magical language, but this obviously goes beyond our current understanding of Runic."
The chamber fell into an eerie silence.
Albert spoke up again, breaking the silence, and voiced his doubt to Isabelle, "Is Professor Smith's true purpose for coming to Hogwarts really to find Ravenclaw's chamber?"
"Why would you think that?" Isabelle was taken aback, looking Albert up and down.
"I don't know, it's just a hunch. Although Professor Smith has shown enough curiosity about Ravenclaw's chamber..." Albert frowned, "I feel like he's not taking this risk just for that. There must be another reason."
"Do you think I know some inside information?" Albert asked, his curiosity piqued.
"Yes, I believe you should know quite a bit," Isabelle replied, her expression turning more serious, indicating that she indeed had some valuable insights to share.
"And you're willing to tell me?" Albert inquired, his interest growing.
"Well, it does concern you, in a way," Isabelle said, a hint of reluctance in her voice as if she were debating whether to divulge this information.
"Concerns me?" Albert was intrigued, wondering how he could be connected to whatever secret she was alluding to.
"Let's just say it's related to an inheritance issue within the Smith family, or perhaps not directly with them, but it's about an inheritance nonetheless," Isabelle explained, her tone suggesting that this was not a pleasant topic for her.
"I should remind you that I'm a Muggle-born wizard, from a Muggle family," Albert said, offering a gentle reminder in case she had forgotten his background.
"No, I don't think you're just an ordinary Muggle-born," Isabelle quickly denied, shaking her head firmly. "The extent of help Professor Broad and Uncle Mog have given you goes beyond what they'd do for a mere genius."
Albert was taken aback by her assertion, "Why would you say that...?" Though he had to admit, he had found Professor Broad's interest in him rather peculiar as well.
"Because of your situation, I've experienced something similar in my own way," Isabelle said, her face growing more somber as she recalled her past. "After my father's death, Professor Broad, Uncle Mog, and some of my father's friends took great care of me and my family. Thanks to them, Katrina and I had a fairly decent childhood."
"I was considered a genius from a very young age," she continued, a hint of bitterness in her voice. "But before that label was attached to me, they didn't show this level of enthusiasm."
"Do you resent them for it?" Albert asked, curious about her true feelings.
"No, not really. In fact, I'm grateful for their help. Because of them, my childhood was happier than it might have been otherwise," Isabelle shook her head, dismissing any notion of resentment. "Later, my situation became similar to yours. They seemed to be going out of their way to nurture me, as if preparing me to be..."
"An heir?" Albert finished her sentence, his eyes widening with realization.
"Yes, an heir," Isabelle nodded, confirming his suspicion. "At first, I didn't pay much attention to it, I just found it strange. But then, I read my father's diary..."
"As far as I know, my father and Professor Rowena Smith had similar experiences," Isabelle turned away, not meeting Albert's gaze. "And now, it's happening to you. What do you make of it?"
"My situation is similar to yours?" Albert asked, his mind racing. "Because I'm also a genius?"
"Not just that," Isabelle shook her head. "While you are indeed a genius, that's not the sole reason. They are investing a lot in you, hoping for even greater achievements."
"So, you must be related to the Smith family by blood?" Albert inquired, putting the pieces together.
"I'm a Muggle-born wizard," Albert reminded her with a wry smile.
"I know, but that doesn't mean your family has to be Muggle-born as well. They could be Squibs or wizards living in the Muggle world. There must be a connection somewhere along the line, perhaps to that family, which is why you were chosen," Isabelle explained, her eyes narrowing as she analyzed the situation.
Damn, she guessed right! Albert's heart skipped a beat as he realized the extent of her insight.
This girl was truly extraordinary! "Oh?" Albert feigned ignorance, not confirming nor denying her theory, but his curiosity was piqued. "And?"
"There's no such thing as unconditional love in this world," Isabelle stated, her eyes sharp.
"That's true," Albert agreed, studying Isabelle with newfound interest. "It seems you know quite a lot. But I don't think they shared all this information with you, which means you either deduced it on your own or obtained it elsewhere. I won't dwell on how you managed that for now, but why are you telling me all this? As you said, there's no free love in this world. Are you trying to use me? Or do you want me to do something for you in return?"
Isabelle fell silent for a moment, as if debating whether to reveal more.
Albert took the opportunity to glance at the new task that had appeared. Although he already had a hunch about what was going on, he was curious about the specifics of this heir business.
Ancient Secret:
You seem to be inadvertently involved in a matter concerning an ancient family. As the unexpected candidate for inheritance, it would be wise to uncover the truth behind this mysterious situation.
Reward: 2000 Experience, Isabelle McDougall's Favorability +10.
Albert stared at the task panel, surprised to see a favorability increase as part of the reward.
"Go on, tell me what you know. If there's anything you want me to do, I'm listening," Albert gestured for her to continue.
"To be honest, I don't know much either," Isabelle admitted. "It's about an inheritance, or more accurately, a dispute over a surname. But the details are very hazy, as this matter is extremely secretive, known only to a select few."
"An inheritance and a surname?" Albert raised an eyebrow, intrigued. He was aware of his connection to the Smith family, but he never expected to be caught up in an inheritance dispute.
"Does every Smith have this opportunity? Or is it only for those with a certain lineage?" Albert inquired, seeking clarification.
"I don't think so," Isabelle shook her head. "I believe the candidates are chosen, and as far as I know, my sister Katrina wasn't selected."
"Poor her," Albert commented, unable to resist a slight smirk. "How did you find out, anyway?"
"She hasn't had much interaction with Professor Broad or Uncle Mog, nor has she been introduced to other famous wizards," Isabelle explained. "Our situations are similar in that regard. Of course, I won't deny that you're more of a genius in certain aspects."
"Does this matter concern you a great deal?" Albert asked, curious about her level of investment in the situation.
"No," Isabelle replied without hesitation.
"Isabelle wasn't lying; she doesn't really care about becoming that so-called heir."
"Was your father also once one of the candidates for the inheritance?" Albert recalled Professor Smith's boggart and had a bad premonition.
"Mhm, I think so," Isabelle said softly.
"Do you think I'm one of them, and you're looking for allies?" Albert felt he had guessed the answer, and the possibility was high. "By the way, what's in it for me?"
"You should be able to inherit a large sum of galleons." Isabelle replied without hesitation. "Ancient families are usually quite wealthy."
"Do I look like someone who needs galleons? Even if I did, don't you think I can earn galleons myself? Why get involved in a ridiculous inheritance dispute?" Albert interrupted impatiently. "To be honest, I'm quite averse to getting entangled in some family dispute. Besides, I have no connection to the Smith family, and even if I did, do you expect me to give up the inheritance to you?"
Isabelle fell into a brief silence, then nodded at Albert.
"To be honest, I'm quite averse to this too." Isabelle did not hide her dislike and continued, "My sister and mother are more important than this damn inheritance."
"Why don't you just give up, then?" Albert asked in return.
"Don't you think that's funny?" Isabelle's expression became even more peculiar. "Do you expect me to go and tell Uncle Mog about this directly? What do you think he would think? Pretending ignorance is the wisest choice."
"Okay, you're right." Albert nodded, conceding the point.
"But, do you think the inheritance has something to do with Ravenclaw's Chamber?"
"I'm not sure." Isabelle shook her head. "I'm still trying to find a solution, but I'm stuck here. Tell me what you've discovered!"
"Well, do you think I was lying earlier?" Albert asked.
"You didn't tell the whole truth, at least." Isabelle said.
"Okay, as you said before, Ravenclaw prefers to let people learn proactively, like with the eagle ring riddle. Although some may solve it with their own wisdom, they are in the minority. Most people need to learn." Albert's fingers trailed over the words "Superior intelligence is mankind's greatest treasure" on the wall.
"To pass through here and obtain the treasure from Ravenclaw's Chamber, we need to master what Ravenclaw wants us to learn... Ancient Runic Magic!"
"So, you didn't lie, you just hid some secrets."
"No, you just didn't notice, or you noticed but didn't want to admit it. While studying Ancient Runic Magic, you should have realized that it's just an ancient language." Albert's hand brushed over the text, "To truly understand how to use it is to pass the test set by Ravenclaw and enter the next chamber. However, once we, the discoverers, truly master it, it means we have obtained the treasure left by Ravenclaw. That's very Ravenclaw, isn't it?"
"Knowledge is sometimes a form of wealth." Isabelle suddenly smiled, a happy smile.
"Yes, that's very Ravenclaw and in line with the saying that superior intelligence is mankind's greatest treasure." She murmured softly, "Are you going to tell Professor Smith about this?"
"Why not? But I don't think he'll be able to open the hidden chamber. Maybe he can ask for Dumbledore's help, but what's the point? Even if he opens it, it'll just lead to the next chamber, and he still won't gain anything." Albert shrugged, "Of course, maybe there's some legacy left by Ravenclaw in the chamber, like the missing diadem."
"Ravenclaw's diadem? I don't think you'd pin your hopes on that, would you?"
"I was just saying! By the way, Professor Smith is quite pitiful, isn't he? The chamber he expected to find turned out like this."
Albert shrugged, not really concerned about the matter. Was Professor Smith pitiful?
Who knew! "You might be the next one to open the chamber." Isabelle leaned against the wall and couldn't help but sigh. After all, Albert's proficiency in Ancient Runic Magic far surpassed theirs, and while she was learning it, she was still just a beginner.
The two chatted about some trivial matters, and Isabelle suddenly said, "It's ten o'clock. Professor Smith should be here soon."
"He's coming here?" Albert asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes, we agreed on it yesterday. Why don't you stay and continue studying Ancient Runic Magic?" Isabelle's mood seemed quite good. "When he arrives, you can tell him about your earlier guess!"
"Okay, sure!"
About ten minutes later, they heard noises outside the chamber, and the door opened. Professor Smith walked in, his gaze falling on Albert with a hint of surprise at seeing him there.
"You're here too, well then..." Professor Smith greeted Albert with a smile.
"Professor Smith, Isabelle and I just discussed..." Albert quickly interrupted and shared his and Isabelle's guess with Professor Smith.
After a long silence, Professor Smith sighed deeply, his face bitter. "What you said is quite possible, which would explain why this chamber is the way it is."
Perhaps, I shouldn't have told him. Most of the time, the truth is crueler than lies.
Professor Smith took several deep breaths, suppressing his emotions, then patted Albert's shoulder. "You're the only one among us who might be able to open the chamber. I hope you can give it your best shot. Once you officially open it, please let me know. After investing so much, I don't want to be left in the dark in the end; that would be too cruel."
After saying this, Professor Smith turned and left, his back looking lonely, as if he had aged several years.
I intended to post them together, but there was a power outage yesterday, so I couldn't.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter end
Report
