Chapter 966: Unexpected Visitors
Chapter 966: Unexpected Visitors
After leaving the Headmaster's office, Kyle returned to his cabin, unaware of what Professor McGonagall and Burns had talked about.
However, they remained in the Headmaster's office for a long time, and it wasn't until close to curfew that Burns and Kingsley hurriedly left Hogwarts, appearing to be in a rush.
As for what transpired during that time, Professor McGonagall didn't reveal anything, and Kyle didn't inquire further. Still, it was certain that they would have a peaceful period ahead.
Nevertheless, these matters held little importance for the students.
The exam week at Hogwarts always fostered the best learning atmosphere, as students could be seen everywhere, reciting spells and incantations.
During this time, professors strictly forbade students from carrying wands outside classrooms to avoid being hit by various chaotic spells and missing exams.
Even Kyle was busy, as students constantly sought his help with questions about Ancient Runes.
Hermione, in particular, was a regular visitor, appearing at his cabin door almost daily.
"The biggest mistake Professor McGonagall made was telling Hermione the correct route through the Alchemical Fog," Kyle sighed, finally managing to send Hermione away again.
Previously, Hermione couldn't enter because the Alchemical Fog contained not only Ancient Runes knowledge but also alchemy, a field where Hermione's knowledge was close to zero, making it impossible for her to find the right direction.
Coincidentally, she once encountered Professor McGonagall, who was also heading to see Kyle, and by saying she was there to ask Kyle questions, she smoothly gained entry.
"Speaking of Hermione, she's indeed smart. She only needed to walk through once to remember the correct route," Hagrid chuckled, "I still haven't fully memorized it myself."
"That's not the point," Kyle sighed. "Haven't you noticed? As the exam draws near, her personality becomes more anxious. I've told her several times that those questions are not within the N.E.W.T. exam scope, but she just won't listen."
"Oh, is it because of me...?" Hagrid looked at Kyle in surprise, "Sorry, I mean, you really resemble a professor now."
"What, didn't I resemble one before?"
"..."
"Never mind, I won't ask," Kyle shook his head decisively, "I'm a salaried employee, so I should do some actual work."
"Continue talking about Hermione. It's best if you, as her friend, chat with her and help her relax and not be so nervous.
"During last year's N.E.W.T. exams, someone was so nervous that they mispronounced the Bird-Conjuring Charm and ended up conjuring hundreds of sparrows."
"What's wrong with that?" Hagrid blinked, "They're all birds, so it shouldn't be a problem. Moreover, with hundreds of them... that score would surpass many others."
"But that was a Transfiguration exam, not Charms," Kyle shrugged. "And under the influence of the spell, those sparrows collectively had diarrhea... Can you imagine the scene of 'rain' in the classroom?"
"That classroom is still vacant, with no professor willing to use it."
Hagrid paused.
Although he often brought back manure to sprinkle on his pumpkin patch, the image of manure rain was still too cruel... That little wizard.
However, the wizards from the Exam Administration Bureau were generally over eighty years old, having overseen countless exams, possessing vast experience and rich knowledge, and should be able to withstand it... probably.
Hagrid thought to himself.
"It's just one N.E.W.T. exam, not an election for Minister," Kyle continued, "And even if it were an election, it's not necessary to obtain twelve certificates."
"I can only try," Hagrid glanced at the castle.
After Kyle's words, he also felt it was more appropriate to talk to Hermione.
Just in case her nervousness led to mistakes in her spells.
"I think you should find Harry and Ron to do this," Hagrid opened the door and headed towards the castle, "They're Hermione's best friends."
Kyle shrugged, neither confirming nor denying.
Of course, he knew, but it wasn't because he was lazy.
Moreover, Hagrid had been in the garden for several days, and even Yaya was fed by Kyle. This was also an excuse for Hagrid to get some exercise.
...
By dinnertime, the wizards from the Exam Administration Bureau arrived, led by Professor Machinban.
Previously, Dumbledore would stand up to welcome her, but this time, Professor McGonagall took his place.
Seemingly aware of this, Professor Machinban's expression carried a hint of worry, and she sighed softly.
Karl surveyed the crowd and was surprised to find the two elderly wizards who had overseen Mikkel's Transfiguration exam last year still in the ranks.
Their complexions were rather poor, and they appeared more nervous than the students around them, with their hands tucked into their pockets as if gripping their wands, ready to respond to any sudden situations.
Fortunately, Mikkel had already graduated.
At that moment, Professor Machinban happened to walk over as well.
Karl and the other professors all stood up.
"It's astonishing that you've become a professor so soon after graduation," Professor Machinban paused in front of Karl, "Few have the ability to become a professor right after graduation, but I'm not surprised that you're qualified."
"Thank you," Karl said.
Professor Machinban shook her head and glanced at Karl once more.
After arriving here this time, she suddenly felt that Karl looked very familiar, as if she had met him a long time ago, but she couldn't quite recall when.
In any case, it was a long time ago, much earlier than Karl's enrollment.
But that's impossible. At that time, not only Karl, but even Karl and Diana hadn't been born yet.
Professor Machinban shook her head and quickly dismissed the thought, assuming she had encountered a student who looked like Karl in the past.
After all, she had been in charge of the Hogwarts exams for an entire century, visiting once a year, and had met countless young wizards.
Occasionally, it's normal to misremember appearances.
"You've worked hard, Minerva," Professor Machinban sat next to Professor McGonagall.
"But I believe only you could restore order to Hogwarts so quickly."
Professor McGonagall shook her head, "I merely did what I should."
"To be honest, there was a time when I thought I wouldn't return to Hogwarts this year."
Professor Machinban cut a small piece of fried pork and put it in her mouth.
"You're truly remarkable, letting Voldemort know that Hogwarts isn't just about Albus.
"Please forgive me for not helping. They sealed off my fireplace, not allowing me to leave my office. Those damn..."
Professor Machinban suddenly started cursing without regard for her image, not only cursing the Death Eaters but also the Aurors who prevented her from coming to Hogwarts to participate in the war.
Professor McGonagall found it amusing and shook her head repeatedly. She had known Professor Machinban for so long, and she never expected her to have such a temper.
But to be fair, if she were an Auror from the Ministry of Magic, she wouldn't let a wizard over a hundred years old go to the battlefield either... except for Dumbledore.
After cursing for a while, Professor Machinban finally calmed down. She looked at the spot to the left of Professor McGonagall.
"I also heard about Severus. Is he really Albus's man?"
"Yes, I've asked Albus's portrait, and he told me himself."
Professor Machinban was a bit dazed and silent for a moment before shaking her head.
"I never expected this... It's the first time I've misjudged someone... I always thought he was deep and didn't get along with anyone..."
"Yes," Professor McGonagall nodded, "Only Albus knows what he's up to."
"What do you plan to do after that? Will you keep him at Hogwarts?"
"Let's wait until the second hearing is over," Professor McGonagall thought for a moment, "If Severus is willing, I'd be happy to have him continue as a professor at Hogwarts."
"Sure, that's a wise choice," Professor Machinban nodded, "When he was a Potions professor, the students' grades were better than now..."
Professor Machinban paused for a moment, glancing at Professor Slughorn, who was enjoying a steak.
However, Professor Slughorn was engrossed in his meal and didn't notice their conversation.
Professor Machinban continued as if nothing had happened, "What I mean is, he was a very good professor."
"I agree," Professor McGonagall also breathed a sigh of relief.
She knew what Professor Machinban had been about to say, and so did Karl.
It was probably about how the students' grades were generally better when Severus Snape was the Potions professor.
This isn't surprising, as even though Snape was biased, unenthusiastic, and lacked professionalism, his expertise was undeniably strong.
What he taught in class were improved steps that he had refined himself.
It's not that Professor Slughorn's teaching was bad; just look at Harry's transformation from a Potions slacker to an outstanding student surpassing Hermione with just a notebook.
Snape's teaching in class was an even more comprehensive version... Perhaps the students didn't realize it at the time, but when it came to exams, that more streamlined process would show its advantages.
Despite the tension in the air, Professor Machinban and Professor McGonagall seemed to have an unspoken agreement to avoid the topic, smoothly shifting the conversation elsewhere.
Meanwhile, the students below were buzzing with chatter.
However, unlike the relaxed atmosphere up at the staff table, they were visibly more anxious.
Although the exams hadn't started yet, the mere sight of officials from the Wizarding Examinations Authority was enough to make them subconsciously feel tense.
"I can't believe it, I still have so much History of Magic to memorize..." Hermione's hands trembled, and she hadn't even touched the food in front of her. She was about to get up and leave when Harry stopped her.
"You memorized History of Magic word for word two days ago." Harry held her back.
"Then it's Herbology..."
"You finished your third read-through of 'Thousand Herbs and Ferns' this morning." Hermione's eyes darted to her bag.
"And Advanced Transfiguration..."
"The Ancient Runes exam only covers up to the intermediate level..." Kyle said, and you were right there next to him." Harry sighed, setting down the half-eaten baked potato in his hand.
"Hermione, do you remember what Hagrid said?" Ron chimed in, nodding vigorously, "You're too nervous, and this might cause you to make mistakes during the exam. You should relax."
"Exactly." Ron agreed, "Look at us, we're not nervous at all. Sit down and finish your dinner, the professors are all looking over here."
Hermione glared at Ron.
Indeed, Harry and Ron weren't the slightest bit nervous, but she truly couldn't help it.
This wasn't just any ordinary exam, it was the N.E.W.T.s, the most crucial graduation exam. Hermione dared not imagine what would happen if she didn't even get a single certificate...
She simply couldn't help but be nervous.
Despite Harry's persuasion, she sat back down, but only to sit and occasionally glance up at Professor Machinban at the staff table.
Soon, some students finished their meals and left their seats, and Hermione immediately got up and followed suit.
Harry and Ron exchanged glances and quickly caught up with her.
However, they parted ways in the entrance hall.
Hermione headed to the second-floor library, while Harry and Ron made their way to the Hospital Wing.
A few minutes later, when they returned, they held a tiny bottle, no bigger than a thumb.
"Will this really work?" Ron asked anxiously.
"I'm not sure." Harry shook his head.
"But what if Hermione drinks it and can't wake up tomorrow?"
"No, that won't happen." Harry furrowed his brows, "Madam Pomfrey gave it to us, so it should be fine."
As they talked and walked, they didn't pay attention to what was ahead, and at a corner, they bumped into an armored knight.
Harry stumbled, and the bottle slipped from his hand.
"No..."
Just an inch from the ground, the bottle suddenly stopped in mid-air.
"Oh, thank goodness..." Harry breathed a sigh of relief.
"What are you two up to?"
Kyle, who happened to be passing by, pointed upwards, catching the bottle and shaking it gently.
The potion inside transformed into various different colors.
"Dreamless Sleep Potion..." Kyle looked at the bottle and then at Harry and Ron.
"You two, can't sleep?" he asked with a hint of confusion in his voice.
It was normal for students to feel nervous and have trouble sleeping before an important exam, but if these two were Harry and Ron, that wouldn't be normal.
They might have various reasons for insomnia, like Wizard's Chess, night wandering, or delving into a particular subject, but it definitely wouldn't be due to the exam.
"It's Hermione." Ron stood up to explain, "Ginny said Hermione has only been sleeping for two hours each night these past few days."
"She's too nervous, so we want Hermione to have a good night's sleep." Harry also stood up, pointing to the bottle in Kyle's hand, "Madam Pomfrey said this is very effective for insomnia."
"But we're not sure if it will affect her exam tomorrow."
"If it's Dreamless Sleep Potion..." Kyle began, "Pour half into hot cocoa, but don't change its location, or you might wake her up."
"Thanks, we got it." Harry nodded, and he and Ron left.
Kyle continued walking out of the castle, as one of the professors, he would also be helping to supervise the exams tomorrow.
"So this is what the Hogwarts graduates are like? They don't even know Dreamless Sleep Potion." A slow, relaxed voice came from behind.
Kyle instinctively turned around, and when he saw who it was, he immediately gripped his wand.
"Relax, I just wanted to see what kind of magic this school has that made Albus willing to devote everything to it."
Grindelwald raised a single finger to his lips.
"Promise me, that you'll keep this between us."
"Okay?"
...
(End of Chapter)
Chapter end
Report
