Chapter 118: 'Stranger”

Chapter 118: “Stranger”

A sudden intrusion into the compartment revealed a tall, slender young wizard.

His visage held an air of gauntness, a slightly elongated nose, and a hint of paleness.

Surveying the occupants with a stern nod, the stranger claimed the last available seat without ado.

Hmm Hermione cleared her throat, cautiously inquiring, May we ask, sir

Before she could conclude her query, the stranger swiftly interjected, his tone frigid and dismissive, I am the new instructor at Hogwarts!

His utterance carried a chill that seemed to distance any further engagement.

Hermione, Matthew, and Neville exchanged glances, swiftly sensing the challenges that lay ahead with this enigmatic presence.

Evidently uninterested in further communication, the stranger retrieved earplugs from his pocket, firmly lodging them in his ears.

He then retrieved an eye mask

Ultimately, he settled against the window, stilled as if plunged into a deep slumber.

Matthew, Hermione, and Neville instinctively distanced themselves from the enigmatic stranger.

A new professor? Neville questioned, a furrow etched onto his brow.

He gazed upon the seemingly lifeless figure, inquiring softly, Do we know which subject he teaches?

Im uncertain, Hermione whispered, Transfiguration, perhaps. But lets not jump to conclusions; there could be other possibilities.

Nevilles remark stirred Hermiones sense of his deliberate provocations.

Though she refrained from verbalizing her thoughts, a subtle pout revealed her sentiments.

Warily regarding the dozing stranger, the trio upheld an unspoken pact to maintain a safe distance from him.

Recollections of the prior year surfaceda popular metamorphosis instructor, later exposed as a Vampire, suspected of involvement in a series of campus attacks

Well, we can only hope, Neville murmured skeptically, Even though he doesnt strike me as dependable.

Nevilles second thought remained a hushed confession directed only at Matthew and Hermione.

Dismissing the notion, Hermione cleared her throat and offered her perspective, Remember Professor Trocar from the last term? Utterly reliable, yet harboring dark secrets! Our lesson in not judging books by their covers.

Afternoon approached as a gray shroud enveloped the sky.

The train maintained its northerly course.

A gentle drizzle commenced, obscuring the panorama of endless mountains beyond the windows.

When do we anticipate arriving at Hogwarts? Neville inquired, his fatigue evident.

Relinquishing efforts to amuse Crookshanks, Neville found the creatures apathy increasingly discouraging.

At least four more hours, Matthew assessed, glancing at his watch.

Neville sighed in defeat.

Matthew shuttered Miranda Goshawks The Standard Book of Spells Grade Two.

Oh, yes, Nevilles voice piped up suddenly, bearing an epiphany, Theres something else

Hush! Hermione admonished, a finger raised to her lips, her gaze reproachful.

She gestured subtly toward the slumbering professor.

Matthews inclination mirrored Hermiones, his reading rhythm interrupted by Nevilles interruption, evoking a modicum of displeasure.

Apologies, Nevilles smile carried a sheepish air, voice hushed, I just wanted to mention that my father might be visiting this semester.

Curiosity danced in Matthews eyes, prompting Neville to elaborate.

Hes overseeing Hogwarts defense next year, Neville explained.

But isnt the Ministry deploying Dementors for that role? Hermione questioned, her brow furrowed. I recall your fathers an Auror

Just sharing a tidbit with you both; its a bit hush-hush Neville lowered his tone further, Some senior Auror officials believe Dementors lack efficacy against the fugitives. Hence, theyre sending Aurors to bolster Hogwarts defense

Intriguing, but how does that relate to the Azkaban fugitives? Matthew pondered aloud, his demeanor thoughtful, The two seem disjointed

Neville faltered, a perplexed expression shadowing his features.

Hermiones visage mirrored his bewilderment.

Matthews inquiry lingered, yet before a response could materialize, the cabins lights illuminated the aisle and luggage rack.

Simultaneously, the train decelerated, its velocity ebbing away.Updated from novelbIn.(c)om