Chapter 148 - Ch: 71-79

Chapter 71: Cat Mom Takes the Blame and Another Trump Card

Karl Olonlin, that dog, was currently running around the house in the form of a jungle cat.

Professor McGonagall didn't mind him; after all, it was normal for a kitten to react this way when it arrived in a new territory.

Moreover, they didn't need to clean up; Hogwarts's House-elves had already come to clean last night.

She just wanted Karl Olonlin to personally purchase furniture and arrange the layout, as it was his own room.

Professor McGonagall's residence in Hogsmeade Village was a two-story house; although not large, it was exquisite.

Karl Olonlin saw a photo on the wall, which was of Professor McGonagall in her youth with her deceased husband, Elphinstone Urquhart.

However, this wasn't a living portrait, so Karl Olonlin couldn't greet or communicate with him.

After roughly touring the house, Karl Olonlin leaped down from the stairs and transformed back into human form in the living room.

"Seen everything?"

Professor McGonagall, who was reading on the sofa, stood up. "Then let's go shopping."

"Alright!"

By the time Karl Olonlin had tidied up his little den, it was already noon.

Idle, he leaned against the kitchen doorway, accompanying Professor McGonagall as she cooked.

Professor McGonagall elegantly waved her wand, and the prepared ingredients began to move, cooking themselves.

"Are you bored? Why don't you use this time to do some summer homework?"

"Please, Minerva! It's only the first day of vacation! I promise I'll finish my homework!"

Karl Olonlin rolled his eyes. The attitude of parents worldwide towards their children doing homework was truly consistent.

Professor McGonagall turned and walked over, gently tapping his head. "Doing homework is much easier than working."

"Perhaps."

Anyway, Karl Olonlin had never worked in either of his lives. He had just finished the college entrance exam with great difficulty, only to find himself going to middle school instead of university.

"If you don't believe me, you can ask Charlie and Tonks; I'm sure they'd rather do homework."

"Ah? Charlie and Tonks?"

Karl Olonlin's eyes widened suddenly. He knew what he had forgotten!

He immediately took off running, heading straight for the fireplace.

"Minerva! Can the Floo Network still be used?"

Professor McGonagall looked bewildered. "Yes, but where are you going? It's almost time to eat."

"I forgot to see Tonks and the others off!"

Karl Olonlin grabbed a handful of Floo powder, threw it into the fireplace, and then plunged in headfirst.

Professor McGonagall: (◎ _ ◎)

She couldn't help but sigh. At this hour, she hoped he wouldn't get beaten.

It seemed she needed to prepare more food to entertain Karl Olonlin's hungry and resentful friends.

By the time Karl Olonlin arrived at the main gate of Hogwarts, all the Thestral carriages had already departed.

At the empty gate, there were only seven watchers standing in a row, silent and resigned to their fate.

The moment they saw Karl Olonlin appear, they first paused, then roared and lunged at him,

"Karl Olonlin!"

"Where did you, you dog, disappear to? Why are you only showing up now?"

"Don't tell me you got lost in the Castle! We've been waiting here for hours!"

"Because of you, you scoundrel! We even missed the Hogwarts Express!"

"You deserve to die! I'll kill you a thousand times, and it still won't be enough!"

Karl Olonlin: \(°Д°)/

Oh no! He thought they would be angry, but he didn't expect them to be this angry!

They've turned into Aatrox, the Darkin Blade!

Seeing that he was about to be ganged up on, Karl Olonlin decisively turned and ran, shouting as he went:

"Wait a minute! Don't get excited! Listen to me make excuses—listen to me explain!"

Charlie chased after Karl Olonlin with a sneer. "You go ahead and make it up! We'll listen to your nonsense after we've vented our anger!"

He motioned for George, Fred, Cedric, and Summers to join in. "Elbow him hard!"

Judy, at this point, no longer cared about her lady-like image. She rolled up her sleeves, drew her wand, and was about to join Tonks.

"Levicorpus!"

"Ah!" × 5

The panting Karl Olonlin stopped, patting his chest with lingering fear. He almost got beaten.

Thanks to Professor Snape, thanks to him for inventing this spell and teaching it to him.

"Karl Olonlin! Put us down!"

"You sneak attacked us!"

Charlie and the other five were hanging upside down in mid-air, which startled Judy and Tonks. They simultaneously clutched their skirts and moved away from Karl Olonlin, their eyes full of vigilance.

Karl Olonlin: ...

Don't look at me like that! I'm really not a pervert!

"My dear brothers and sisters! I deeply regret breaking my promise! But it really wasn't intentional!"

"It's because— " Karl Olonlin's mind flashed with someone's image, "—because Professor McGonagall needed me!"

Cat Mom! Please take the blame!

Tonks didn't believe him at all. "Oh, come on! Why don't you say Headmaster Dumbledore invited you for tea?"

Judy snorted. "If that's really the case, then I'll never rush you for submissions again."

A few minutes later, she regretted it.

Because Karl Olonlin brought them to Hogsmeade Village, where they met Professor McGonagall.

"Are you all hungry? Wash your hands quickly and come eat. It's fine if you missed the Hogwarts Express; you can explore the village this afternoon and just return via the Floo Network later."

Professor McGonagall looked at the seven people who had been tricked by her 'kitten', their information quickly flashing through her mind.

Thankfully, they were all young Wizards from Wizarding families, so she didn't have to send them back one by one.

Charlie and Tonks exchanged glances. Although they wanted to be polite, their grumbling stomachs wouldn't allow it.

"Thank you, Professor!" × 7

After a meal of revenge-like eating, Karl Olonlin accompanied his friends into the village.

He spent a lot of money buying apology gifts, which finally made them forgive him and avoided the risk of getting beaten.

However, though they said they were wandering, most of the time they were drinking Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks pub.

There was no other way; Madam Rosmerta was too lethal. Charlie, George, Fred, Cedric, and Summers, those five innocent young Wizards, simply couldn't resist and kept secretly staring at her.

While Judy and Tonks scorned them, they curiously asked Karl Olonlin, "Why aren't you peeking?"

"Because I have face blindness."

"Hmph! Oh, come on! If you really had face blindness, how come you're always with the prettiest girl in school?"

Karl Olonlin said nothing, merely picked up his Butterbeer and chugged it down.

"Another glass! No! Ten more glasses!"

"Goodbye, Karl Olonlin!"

In the evening, Charlie and Tonks left via the Floo Network.

"Goodbye!"

Karl Olonlin's smile faded after seeing his friends off. The desolation after a lively gathering easily left one feeling lost.

This listless state continued until bedtime, when Professor McGonagall handed Karl Olonlin an application form.

"Good night, child, I hope you have good dreams."

Karl Olonlin watched the cheerful Professor McGonagall walk into the bedroom, feeling somewhat confused and bewildered.

Why did Minerva's expression seem to have a hint of mischievous satisfaction after a successful prank?

"Application to continue studying at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry—Applicant Nina Goldstein?"

(O . O)

Karl Olonlin was directly amused to anger. Alright, alright! So this is how we're playing, huh?

"You little brat! Just you wait!"

Late at night, Karl Olonlin sat cross-legged on his bed, his soul appearing deep within his consciousness.

This was an boundless chaotic space, with a Heart Fire illuminating all directions.

"Chirp~"

Fire Treasure enthusiastically snuggled with Karl Olonlin, flying around him constantly.

"Good boy~"

Karl Olonlin rubbed Fire Treasure's head, placed it on top of his own, and then looked at a mass of black mist suspended above the Heart Fire.

When he first matched with Foliegate and obtained the Ruination Curse and the dormant Harrowing Black Mist, he had considered setting up a seal for an extra layer of security.

Although theoretically the Harrowing Black Mist wouldn't erupt as long as Karl Olonlin didn't activate the Ruination Curse, it was still a dangerous curse capable of destroying the world, so it should be respected.

With the idea of 'beating a child on a rainy day' to pass the time, Karl Olonlin began searching for sealing spells, but unexpectedly ran into Elvis Heller, which led to a whole host of troubles.

However, the outcome was still good; at the very least, sealing spells that had been lost in the Wizarding world for a thousand years were now in his hands.

Although Karl Olonlin, now possessing the demigod power of Anivia, no longer needed this item, he couldn't have searched for it for nothing, could he?

Moreover, he was a bit curious: could this spell, which could extract the power of the stone of destiny, allow him to use the Harrowing Black Mist without activating the Ruination Curse?

Since he had demigod power, there was no harm in trying.

Karl Olonlin's soul instantly transformed into an Ice Phoenix, and brilliant light shone in his eyes.

"Freeze!"

An ice altar instantly appeared, with ice pillars rising from the ground around it, forming a megalithic circle surrounding the altar.

Chains of ice extended from the pillars towards the altar, quickly locking the Harrowing Black Mist in the center.

"Yi Ya!"

Fire Treasure looked at the megalithic circle, then at the Heart Fire on the altar, and angrily patted Karl Olonlin's bird head—bah! Phoenix head. "It's fine, it won't affect you."

"Chirp?"

Fire Treasure tried moving in and out of the megalithic circle a few times, and once it confirmed it was fine, it became happy again.

"Hmm… everything is going smoothly! Now, it's time to witness a miracle!"

In the real world, Karl Olonlin opened his eyes, gazing at his hands.

With a thought, wisps of the Harrowing Black Mist appeared.

Aha! He had another trump card!

Chapter 72 Grindelwald's Teachings and Acceptance Letters

"Protego Maxima! Repello Inimicum!"

In the courtyard, Karl held his wand horizontally in front of him, casting the spell Dumbledore had given him.

An invisible wave silently spread, and the air produced a slight tremor.

"Excellent performance! If Filius were here, he would definitely add twenty points for you!"

Professor McGonagall leaned against the doorframe, applauding and praising Karl.

"Thank you, but I think with Professor Flitwick's generosity, it should be fifty points."

Karl stretched, "Minerva, are you going to the Castle to work this afternoon?"

"Of course, it's time to send out the acceptance letters."

"Take me with you!"

Karl wanted to help send the letters; Harry, Hermione, and Ron's were fine.

But for the acceptance letter of Hannah Abbott, the Iron-Capped King of Hogwarts and Hufflepuff, he absolutely had to be the one to send it.

My bloodline is finally going to be pure!

Professor McGonagall readily agreed, "Then hurry up and get ready, I'm about to leave."

"Coming!"

Karl directly transformed into a Jungle Cat, then climbed up the wall, and went back into his room through the window.

Professor McGonagall: <（ ））

Alright! At least he didn't tear the house apart!

Upon arriving at Hogwarts Castle, Professor McGonagall, busy with work, kicked Karl out of her office.

She told him to go somewhere cool and wait, not to stay there and cause trouble.

After receiving the promise that he would be notified when it was time to send the letters, Karl happily went to find Grindelwald.

He had a very fulfilling summer, especially with Professor McGonagall supervising him the whole time.

Doing homework in the morning, learning magic in the afternoon, and practicing Transfiguration with extra lessons in the evening, he didn't feel bored at all.

Whenever Professor McGonagall returned to school, he would go chat with Grindelwald, always making the old man furious.

The last time he came, Grindelwald finally couldn't take it anymore and agreed to teach Karl Apparition.

Today was very good, quite suitable for learning.

Strolling to the Defense Against the Dark Arts Class Professor's office, Karl found Grindelwald moving things.

"Old man, what are you doing?"

Grindelwald looked at Karl with a disgusted expression, "Why are you here again?"

"Because I missed you! So I specifically came to visit you! Aren't you touched?"

"Heh! What you miss is Apparition!"

"Hey, it's pretty much the same, but why are you moving things? Did Principal Dumbledore fire you?"

Grindelwald glared at him. This little rascal really knew how to hit a nerve. "There's a new Professor after school starts, I'm making room for him."

Karl suddenly understood. It seemed Dumbledore still agreed to Quirinus Quirrell's request to become the Defense Against the Dark Arts Class Professor.

Because of Elvis Heller's matter, he had forgotten about Quirrell, especially after confirming that Heller was unrelated to Lord Voldemort. By the time he remembered again, Quirrell had already left school to travel.

Karl confirmed that he was not a good person; he never thought of trying to save him.

Instead, subconsciously, he hoped Quirrell would bring Lord Voldemort's soul to Hogwarts.

Because both Karl and Dumbledore had mastered Stonehenge, they could seal Lord Voldemort's soul.

This way, as long as the Horcruxes were found and destroyed, Lord Voldemort could be completely eliminated.

Karl did not want to fight Tom after he was resurrected; it was always best to strike the enemy when he was down.

As for Harry — he glanced at the light screen — there would always be a way.

Just then, Grindelwald stuffed all his belongings into a small box, making Karl's eyes light up.

Undetectable Extension Charm! This old man is a treasure!

"What kind of look is that?"

Grindelwald squinted at Karl. Why did he feel a chill on his body?

"Nothing? I just wanted to ask if Principal Dumbledore arranged another position for you?"

Hearing this, the old man was silent for a moment, "Vegetable patch caretaker."

Karl: (w)

"Pfft!"

No! I can't hold it in! Is Grindelwald taking on Thanos's script? Hahahahaha!

"What are you laughing at?"

"Not laughing! The weather is too muggy! I'm letting my teeth get some air!"

Grindelwald gritted his teeth, grabbed the box, and turned to leave. Hagrid had already built a small wooden house by the vegetable patch near the Black Lake, which would be his future residence.

"Old man, wait for me! You promised to teach me Apparition!"

"Not teaching it!"

"Don't be like that! I apologize, and I'll help water and fertilize the vegetable patch, okay?"

"Well—"

Grindelwald was a little tempted. After all, he was once the leader of the Wizarding Party whose fame could stop a savage from crying at night. If someone he knew saw him growing vegetables, he would feel like he was losing face.

"You might as well teach me the Undetectable Extension Charm too, right? Of course, if there are other spells, I wouldn't mind either. Teaching such an excellent student is better than taking them to the grave, right?"

As soon as Karl finished speaking, he was met with a barrage of curses from the old man: "You greedy little rascal! Where did Dumbledore recruit you from? Hogwarts is doomed to end soon!"

"Hey! You cursed me and the school! Wait, I'm going to report you right now! Let Principal Dumbledore do justice for me!"

Grindelwald: (

This brat! Does he have a Shield Charm on his face? Why is it thicker than the Castle walls?

"Apparition is actually divided into three stages: Disapparition, Translocation, and Apparition."

"That is, first disappearing from the current location, then moving through space, and finally appearing at the destination."

"Throughout the entire process, the most important things are destination, determination, and deliberation."

"You must concentrate on clearly imagining the destination, be determined to go to the imagined destination, and remain deliberate."

"Remember, if there's even a small mistake, it can lead to Splinching, serious injury—or even death."

Outside the gates of Hogwarts, Grindelwald was teaching Karl Apparition.

Karl learned with extreme seriousness, because he wanted to be a summoner with Flash.

"Besides, using Apparition feels even worse than Floo powder and Portkeys."

"Next, I will use Side-Along Apparition to let you experience it. Do you see that tree over there?"

Grindelwald grabbed Karl's arm and suddenly pointed into the distance.

Karl followed Grindelwald's finger, "Which tree—ah!"

Accompanied by a slight popping sound, he instantly plunged into darkness, his body subjected to intense pressure from all directions, even feeling unable to breathe.

"Phew!"

Karl leaned against the big tree in front of him, took a deep breath, "That was a bit thrilling!"

Grindelwald smiled maliciously, "It's alright, you'll get used to it after a few more times."

"What? No need! Wait a minute! I'm not ready yet—ah!"

Popping sounds rang out one after another. Grindelwald recalled his duel with Dumbledore back then.

At that time, they had continuously Apparated. Thinking about it really made him nostalgic!

Grindelwald shook his head, stopped, and released Karl, "How do you feel?"

"Ugh—"

"Hmm? What are you doing, you brat? Who vomits after Apparating?"

When Professor McGonagall saw Karl again, she found her feline child a bit down in spirits.

"It seems Professor Gott Green has finally found a way to fight back, and it's quite effective."

"Minerva, whose side are you on? And when working, you should address by title, the old man is now the vegetable patch caretaker."

Professor McGonagall smiled helplessly, "Alright, come with me to the Owlery to send letters?"

Karl immediately perked up, "Let's go!"

Chapter 73: Dumbledore's Discoveries and Gains

In the afternoon, in the Owlery of Hogwarts Castle's West Tower, as Professor McGonagall and Carl appeared with the letters, the owls immediately enthusiastically surrounded them.

"Hoo-hoo-hoo—"

"Hello, everyone!"

Carl reached out and stroked each of the adorable little creatures, their fluffy fur feeling incredibly soft.

Mitchell even buried himself in his arms, his eyes comfortably narrowed.

"I never thought you'd be so popular here too."

Professor McGonagall marveled at the kitten's social skills; even the owls were very affectionate with him.

"No choice, this is affinity."

Winking triumphantly at Professor McGonagall, Carl solemnly handed a letter to Mitchell, which contained Hannah Abbott's acceptance letter.

"Last year, you delivered my letter, so today, this letter is also entrusted to you."

"Please, make sure it's delivered! Come back for meat! Big chunks! As much as you want!"

The envelope was packed by his own hands, and the same owl was delivering it. Whose bloodline could be purer than his?

Who else, I ask you?

Professor McGonagall shook her head, not knowing whether to laugh or cry, suddenly feeling that her future life would be very tiring.

From the day the holidays began, the kitten clearly had a good relationship with Nina, but now he was treating this Hannah specially.

Then, thinking about how he also got along well with Tonks, and designed a dress for Judy, as well as those little Witches in the school whose eyes lit up when they saw him…

Professor McGonagall was a little worried, would a group of little Witches surround her, trying to curry favor in the future?

Hiss—why did she feel a faint headache, but also a hint of secret pleasure at the same time?

After handing all the letters to the owls, these little postmen quickly took flight and disappeared into the horizon.

Carl accompanied Professor McGonagall back to the Dean's office, pushed her to sit on the sofa, and thoughtfully helped massage her shoulders.

"You've worked hard, Minerva! How's this pressure? Does it feel alright?"

Professor McGonagall couldn't help but roll her eyes. Why didn't she see him so well-behaved and sensible before?

"Tell me, what is it?"

"Nothing, just caring about you."

"Is that so? Are you sure?"

"Of course!" Carl chuckled, "Minerva, are you still going to visit Muggle families for the little Wizards?"

Professor McGonagall: Ha! I knew it!

"That's right, you don't want to come along, do you?"

Carl's tone was very serious as he began to talk nonsense in all seriousness.

"I'm worried you'll be too tired alone. With me there, at least we can chat and relieve boredom."

"Tell me the truth, are you trying to see some little Witch?"

Hearing this, Carl was immediately displeased. How could his cat-mom slander his innocence out of thin air?

"I'm not trying to see some little Witch!"

"That's good. You stay in school obediently, no running around. If you're bored, you can go help Professor Grindelwald plant vegetables."

Professor McGonagall got up and gave Carl a flick on the forehead, then once again chased him out of the Dean's office.

He always felt that his cat-mom was getting more and more irritable lately. Sure enough, distance makes the heart grow fonder.

Just when the holidays started, Carl was still a treasure, but now he had become a weed.

"Hmph~"

Carl was a little disappointed. He had originally wanted to meet Hermione Granger in advance to see what she looked like.

Never mind, it'll be the same when school starts.

"Old man, what are you doing?"

Carl arrived at the edge of the vegetable patch and saw Grindelwald drawing water from the Black Lake to water the vegetables.

"Did you grow two eyes just to breathe? If you don't know how to use them, dig them out and throw them away!"

Grindelwald's mouth was getting more and more venomous now; he didn't know where he learned it from.

"This is called a greeting, do you understand what friendly communication is?"

Grindelwald: (－_－)

You start with "old man," and you still have the nerve to talk about being friendly with me? Get out of my sight!

"I've taught you Apparition. Don't bother me anymore. If you want to learn other spells, go find Albus. I don't have any more here."

Carl meant, "I'd be a fool to believe you! This old man must have so many good things on him!"

"How can you say that? Actually, I came to help you with work, like fertilizing."

Grindelwald eyed Carl askance, his expression showing no trust whatsoever.

"Wasn't your conscience eaten by the dog Hagrid raised? What? It pooped it out and you picked it up again?"

Hiss! This old man's words are really infuriating!

Carl gritted his back teeth, took out a bag of dungbombs to show Grindelwald, "Hufflepuff's unique technique, Professor Sprout's ancestral secret, personally tested by Tonks, using this to fertilize the vegetable patch, the effect is absolutely excellent!"

"Hahahahahahaha."

Grindelwald suddenly pointed at Carl and burst out laughing, slapping his thigh repeatedly.

Seeing his distorted smile, Carl quickly retreated a few steps, "Old man, you haven't gone crazy, have you?"

"You stinky brat! You dare to trick me! Do you think this old man is a fool?"

Grindelwald raised his arm towards the hut, and a spiked club flew through the air into his hand.

"You little bastard! Take this from the old man!"

Holy cow!

Carl threw the dungbomb at Grindelwald and immediately took off running.

L(°;) ^=3=3

He's gone! He's gone!

"Phew—"

Carl climbed the stairs, panting, heading straight for Dumbledore's Principal's office.

Grindelwald's physical fitness was really good; he chased him around the Castle once and almost didn't get away.

"I need to find a way to steal the old man's spiked club, otherwise I won't dare to go near him anymore."

Gargoyle: (._.)

Carl: (°_°)

"Why are you looking at me? Open the door!"

Seeing that Carl didn't even bother to guess the password, the gargoyle reluctantly jumped aside.

"It's a pity you're just a stone, otherwise, I'd definitely find you a wife."

Following the upward-moving spiral staircase to the Principal's office, Dumbledore was wearing ravenclaw's diadem and looking through letters.

"Good afternoon, Albus!"

Dumbledore took ravenclaw's diadem off his head and rubbed his forehead, somewhat tiredly, "Good afternoon, Carl."

"So? Does this thing really increase the wearer's wisdom?"

Carl looked at the Diadem with some curiosity, wanting to know Dumbledore's user experience.

"Hmm—to a certain extent, yes, because ravenclaw's diadem can keep the wearer calm, rational, and focused. If one studies and thinks during this time, it indeed counts as increasing wisdom."

Dumbledore gestured for Carl to try it on, "But be careful not to wear it for too long, because after using the Diadem, you will feel unusually tired."

"Then let me feel it!"

Carl picked up ravenclaw's diadem, solemnly placed it on his head, and then began to ponder.

A few minutes later, he put the Diadem back in its place.

Seeing Carl's slightly enlightened expression, Dumbledore asked, "How does it feel?"

"Hmm—very good!" Carl curved his lips, "I was just thinking about how to cast the Patronus Charm."

"And then?"

"Then I thought of a way to successfully steal Grindelwald's spiked club."

Dumbledore: "Ah?"

Has your communication reached this point? Is it overly friendly?

"Ahem!"

Carl decided to skip this topic. "Have you had any discoveries recently? About the Tuatha Dé Danann and the Otherworld."

"Of course!"

Dumbledore's eyes lit up, "Do you remember the Witch Morrigan, whom you and I talked about before the holidays?"

"You found her information?"

Carl certainly wouldn't forget this. Although Nina discovered the clue, considering he gave her the Chocolate Frog, the credit was at least a 70/30 split.

Hmm! Seventy percent was his!

"This wasn't difficult, because among Morrigan's descendants, there was a Wizard named William Sayre, who married Leona Gaunt and gave birth to a daughter, Isolt Sayre, who later became the founder of Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

"So Aberforth went to Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry during this time and found the location of the Sayre family's ancestral home, and I found records of Morrigan in that ancestral home located in Ireland."

Carl let out an "ah." No wonder the Hog's Head Inn wasn't open during the summer holidays; it turned out the owner was away on business.

Dumbledore raised his hand and pointed lightly in the air, and silver light points formed dense lines of text.

"Morrigan appeared a bit later than Herpo the Foul, but was roughly active in the same period."

"Although the time Herpo the Foul disappeared is uncertain, Morrigan's departure was recorded by her descendants."

"After sorting through various verifiable events that occurred around that time, I finally found a suspicious point."

Carl stopped trying to read the unfamiliar text in the air and looked at Dumbledore, "What suspicious point?"

"The collapse of the Hill of Tara in Ireland!"

"Shortly after Morrigan's departure, the Hill of Tara in Ireland collapsed, due to a battle between two unidentified powerful Wizards there."

"And since then, neither Herpo the Foul nor Morrigan have any further records of their appearance in the world."

Carl: (-)}

He understood Dumbledore's meaning. If the two Wizards fighting at the Hill of Tara were Herpo the Foul and Morrigan.

Then, given that Herpo the Foul was confirmed to be the Tuatha Dé Danann's God of Craft, this Morrigan was very likely his adversary,

The Goddess of War and Death, Morgana.

And the Hill of Tara in Ireland, where they fought and disappeared, was the earliest known location of the stone of destiny, hence the name Stone of Tara. This seemed to be an important clue for finding the Otherworld.

Although it was just a conjecture without evidence, for them, who were searching for a needle in a haystack, it was enough.

As for why Morgana would leave descendants, it was actually quite normal.

Because in Celtic mythology, Morgana was always the lover of the Dagda, the father-god; falling in love with Cú Chulainn came later, so it was not unusual for her to have a romantic relationship in the mortal world.

"Alright, we should go to the Hill of Tara to investigate. When do we leave?"

As the saying goes, help until the end, send the Buddha to the West. Since he had promised Dumbledore, he would certainly handle the matter properly.

"Hmm—no hurry, because I need to help an old friend with a troublesome matter first."

"Old friend?"

"Nicolas Flamel."

Carl suddenly understood. It was the Philosopher's Stone.

Chapter 74: Welcoming the Iron-Capped King to His Throne

Nicolas Flamel is a renowned alchemist and currently the sole creator of the Philosopher's Stone.

Karl Olonlin remembered that Lord Voldemort wanted to use the power of the Philosopher's Stone to regain his physical body and escape his ghost-like state.

Dumbledore waved his hand, dispelling the silver text in the air, which was replaced by a phantom of a blood-red crystal stone.

"The Philosopher's Stone, a magical alchemical creation, can turn any metal into pure gold and also produce the Elixir of Life," Dumbledore explained. "Nicolas Flamel, after creating the Philosopher's Stone, spent a long time with his wife, Perenelle Flamel."

"However, while they could live forever, their bodies were constantly aging, gradually decaying beyond repair."

"Not long ago, Nicolas Flamel told me they were ready for their next great adventure, ready to embrace death."

At this point, Dumbledore couldn't help but feel a little sad; his old friends were becoming fewer and fewer.

"But the temptation of immortality has made many people obsessed with the Philosopher's Stone. Over hundreds of years, Nicolas Flamel himself has lost count of how many attacks he has endured."

"Now, Nicolas Flamel and Perenelle Flamel have saved some Elixir of Life, enough for them to put their affairs in order."

"In their remaining time, they don't want to be disturbed anymore, so they entrusted the Philosopher's Stone to me, hoping to quietly live out the last leg of their lives."

Karl Olonlin expressed his understanding. Such a request was indeed hard to refuse, which was why Dumbledore had paused his search for the afterlife.

"So, everyone knows the Philosopher's Stone is in your hands now?"

"Of course not everyone. I should say, those who have designs on the Philosopher's Stone."

Karl Olonlin scratched his head, "That's not really a problem, is it? Who would be crazy enough to try and steal from you?"

Dumbledore smiled slightly, "Of course there are. For example, your senior, Tom, wouldn't care about an old man like me."

Bah! He's your Tom! I'm not familiar with him!

"I originally placed the Philosopher's Stone in Gringotts, but I still felt it wasn't entirely safe, so I plan to have Hagrid retrieve it and keep it safe at Hogwarts."

Karl Olonlin believed this was a very wise decision. After all, Dumbledore and Grindelwald were both here. No matter how strong the Goblins' security was, it couldn't compare to these two old men.

"You're not trying to fish, are you?"

"Fishing? That's a very apt description!"

Dumbledore happily extended an invitation to Karl Olonlin, "I've already notified several Professors and asked them to set up some protective measures for the Philosopher's Stone. Would you like to join?"

Karl Olonlin recalled the challenges in the original story and immediately became interested, "Of course! Fiendfyre or Gubraithian Fire? Or should I go catch a few Acromantulas? Even if they're not fully grown, they can still poison people."

Looking at the excited person, Dumbledore quickly motioned for him to calm down, "Stop, stop. There's no need to make it so dangerous, because I also want to test a young Wizard, so safety is paramount."

Karl Olonlin asked knowingly, "Who is it?"

"You should have heard his name, the Boy Who Lived—Harry Potter."

"Oh, it's him, the famous Savior. Then it certainly can't be too dangerous."

Thoughts flashed through his mind, and Karl Olonlin's smile gradually became twisted.

Seeing this, Dumbledore suddenly regretted his decision to invite him to participate in the arrangements.

But since he had already said it, it was hard to retract, so he could only subtly remind him: "Karl Olonlin, Harry Potter is your junior."

"Don't worry! I understand!"

Karl Olonlin winked at Dumbledore. He would definitely learn from his role model, senior Tom.

"Albus, I'm going back to prepare."

"Alright Karl Olonlin, goodbye."

As he reached the door, Karl Olonlin looked back at Dumbledore and offered a suggestion:

"Albus, since you are searching for the afterlife, why don't you ask Mr. Nicolas Flamel to wait a little longer?"

"More than six hundred years have passed; waiting a few more years is nothing. Perhaps everyone can go to the afterlife together."

September 1st, the opening day of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Although it was the same train, unlike first-year students who had to walk and take a boat, students from other grades arrived at the school much earlier by riding Thestral carriages.

So, as dusk fell, Karl Olonlin appeared at the main entrance of the school, carrying a spiked club, to welcome his friends.

"Hi! Karl Olonlin!"

"Karl Olonlin, did you have a good summer holiday?"

"Look! It's Karl Olonlin!"

When the Thestral carriages stopped, the young Wizards entered the school one after another, and many greeted Karl Olonlin.

No choice, it was the treatment of a big star.

Karl Olonlin didn't wait long before Nina and Cho appeared.

"Karl Olonlin! You came to welcome us again! But why do you have a spiked club?"

Cho looked at him confused, feeling a bit like Louis XVI getting his hair done—completely bewildered.

"Of course! So please cherish a friend like me! As for the spiked club? This is for lying young Witches."

Karl Olonlin pointed his chin at Nina, trying hard to keep a straight face under her smiling gaze.

"When did I lie to you?"

"Who said they were transferring schools?"

Nina's smile was full of cunning, "I only said I might have to prepare for an entrance exam, not that I definitely would."

"Then you made me..." Karl Olonlin closed his mouth. He couldn't say something so embarrassing.

"Hmm? Say it! What happened to you?"

Pressed by Nina, Karl Olonlin grabbed the spiked club, "You little brat, still trying to argue! Take this!"

"Oh no! Cho! Let's run!"

Nina pulled Cho and ran, their steps light, sleeves fluttering, as graceful as two butterflies, their pleasant laughter echoing along the way.

Cho: (⊙_⊙)?

Why do your games involve me? Am I also part of your play?

Watching their figures disappear into the distance, Karl Olonlin did not chase them, as he would have plenty of time to tease Nina later.

At this moment, the Weasley Brothers, Cedric, and Summers also arrived. The four of them surrounded him like Huskies.

"Karl Olonlin! Let me tell you something fun! You'll definitely like it!"

"There's going to be some entertainment at the Sorting Ceremony tonight!"

"We pulled your prank from last year again on the train!"

"Hahaha! Many new students were scared to tears on the train!"

Karl Olonlin: (⊙_⊙)! Oh no! Am I going to be blamed again?

And the most important thing is that I wasn't involved!

The decorations in the Castle's Great Hall were no different from last year, with Professors and older students already in their places.

Not long after, Professor McGonagall led the new students into the Great Hall.

Karl Olonlin observed them and indeed, they all looked pale and terrified.

One could only say that the Weasley Brothers, Cedric, and Summers were truly too much!

Committing such outrageous acts, he was truly ashamed to be associated with them.

After the Sorting Hat's song, enthusiastic applause erupted in the Great Hall.

Once it quieted down, Professor McGonagall stepped forward with a roll of parchment. "When I call your name, put on the Hat and sit on the stool to be sorted."

"Hannah Abbott."

A blonde girl with pigtails nervously stepped forward, sat on the stool, and put on the Sorting Hat.

"Hufflepuff!"

Everyone stand up!

Welcome the Iron-Capped King to his throne!

The little ones erupted in enthusiastic cheers, simultaneously standing up and waving to Hannah.

Karl Olonlin was the first to stand and applaud, like a clapping seal, his palms red from clapping too hard.

At the Ravenclaw long table in the distance, Nina looked at Karl Olonlin, her eyes narrowing unconsciously.

Is he that excited?

Chapter 75: Albus Was Not Asleep Either, Chasing Me with His Wand…

After welcoming the Iron Hat King back to his position, Karl became much calmer.

He listened to Professor McGonagall call out familiar names, comparing the appearances of the young Wizards to their images in his memory.

Susan Bones, Hufflepuff, from the Bones family of loyal and brave members.

There were also Justin Finch-Fletchley and Ernie Macmillan, who were also prominent characters in the novel.

Karl nodded in satisfaction. This year's Hufflepuff quality was good, much better than his own year.

Who were Shabi and Stebbins? Could they represent Hufflepuff?

No, they couldn't! They didn't have the ability, understand?

Karl: Luckily, I'm here!

Shabi, Stebbins: Huh?

Lavender Brown, Gryffindor. He remembered her, Ron's ex-girlfriend who often kissed him passionately.

There was also Gryffindor's demolition genius, Seamus Finnigan. He wondered if this kid could trigger a light screen and match a Ziggs when his magic exploded.

When he heard Hermione Granger's name, Karl immediately widened his eyes and looked over. She wasn't exceptionally beautiful, but she was a very cute little girl.

She had a thick, bushy brown hair, plus a pair of large front teeth, making her look like a little squirrel.

Neville Longbottom, the future Gryffindor Sword Saint. However, in Karl's eyes, his talent in Herbology made him seem more like a Hufflepuff.

Of course, the courage deep within him was absolutely worthy of a Gryffindor.

Draco Malfoy, Slytherin. A sapling that had grown a bit crooked under the influence of his dog-like father.

He was a good kid, just a bit bad. Not terribly bad, but not good either. He needed both psychological and physical re-education.

The psychological aspect would definitely be left to Harry, whom Malfoy deeply loved. As for the physical aspect, if he had time, Karl really wanted to try out this kid's feel.

After all, he was clumsy with words and not good at expressing himself; he only had strong Hands-on ability . (Grindelwald: Huh?)

Besides, Malfoy looked fair and tender. A punch would probably make him cry for a long time, right?

The Patil twin sisters, two beautiful young Witches, went to Gryffindor and Ravenclaw respectively.

Karl glanced once, twice, many times, and found that they were actually just average? Why did he suddenly feel a chill down his spine?

He looked around suspiciously, feeling like someone wanted to ambush him from behind.

By the Ravenclaw long table in the distance, Nina moved her gaze away with a half-smile.

Professor McGonagall: "Harry Potter."

The Great Hall fell silent for a few seconds at that name, then a murmur of low whispers broke out.

Karl looked at the boy with the tragic fate. He was small and shorter than his peers.

He had a messy black curly hair, which made his face appear even thinner. Because of the distance, Karl couldn't see his emerald green pupils, only his round glasses.

After a quick glance at Harry, Karl immediately turned to look at Snape, who was sitting at the Professor's long table.

Goodness! That expression was truly magnificent!

Dark clouds gathered, lightning flashed and thunder roared. This gloomy feeling wasn't a sign of ice and electricity, but of knives.

Especially after hearing that Harry Potter was sorted into Gryffindor, he even suspected that Sectumsempra was about to be unleashed.

Among the remaining young Wizards, the only ones Karl remembered were Ron Weasley and Blaise Zabini.

The former was, of course, because he, Harry, and Hermione were the main trio, and also because of his good relationship with Charlie, Fred, and George, who had mentioned this younger brother more than once.

As for the latter, it wasn't because of his beautiful mother who had been widowed seven times, but because in the first version Karl read, his name was translated as Blaise Shabinni.

Pfft! It's hard not to remember that!

After the Sorting Ceremony, Dumbledore stood up and looked at all the young Wizards with a smiling face.

"Welcome everyone to Hogwarts! Before the feast begins, I want to say, 'Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!'"

Amidst everyone's cheers, he sat down, "Thank you all! Let the magnificent feast begin!"

Since Karl had already eaten a meal in the kitchen earlier that afternoon.

So this time, he ate slowly and leisurely, even having time to describe the taste of the food to The Fat Friar.

Karl's gaze lightly swept over Quirinus Quirrell at the Professor's long table, especially the ridiculous turban wrapped around his head.

The day after Hagrid retrieved the Philosopher's Stone and brought it back to Hogwarts, Karl saw the report of the Gringotts break-in.

Quirrell, who failed to get the Philosopher's Stone, was now possessed by Lord Voldemort, becoming a two-faced person.

Since the fish had already taken the bait, shouldn't it be time to reel it in?

Uncertain, he would ask Dumbledore.

After all, the old man was the one fishing. Karl considered himself only holding a landing net to help scoop up the fish.

After a meal eaten with a vengeance, the young Wizards were almost ruminating.

Dumbledore stood up again and told the young Wizards about the precautions: "...Finally, I want to tell everyone,

If you don't want to encounter accidents and die tragically, do not enter the corridor on the right side of the fourth floor."

Immediately after, the Welcoming Feast finally ushered in its traditional program, Dumbledore's favorite and most moving part: the school song chorus.

Seeing that he was about to start conducting, Karl immediately pulled out his wand and cast an Anti-Muffliato Charm on himself.

Hmph! You won't torment me again!

Late at night, Jungle Cat Karl climbed into the Principal's office.

Yes, he climbed up the Castle's outer wall.

At this moment, the office was silent. Dumbledore should be sleeping in the resting room behind.

Karl cast the spell Dumbledore taught him, summoning a curtain to cover the wall full of portraits of past Principals.

Then he came to the desk, sat down, took out paper and pen, and began to write an article:

A Night Tour of Hogwarts.

On the night of September 1, 1991, the Xinwei year, I took off my clothes to sleep. Moonlight entered the room, and I happily got up.

Thinking there was no one to enjoy myself with, I went to the Principal's office to find Dumbledore.

Albus was not asleep either, chasing me with his wand (crossed out), and we walked together in the Castle.

The Castle was eerie and terrifying, with shadowy ghosts lurking in the dark, which were actually statues and suits of armor.

Where is there no moon? Where are there no statues and suits of armor? But there are few idlers like us two.

Karl put down his pen and admired it once, feeling very satisfied, and couldn't help but praise his own literary talent.

"What a good prose! Comparable to the chef Su Dongpo! It will definitely be passed down through the ages!"

After shamelessly boasting, Karl came to the door of the resting room and knocked hard.

"Albus? Albus!"

Soon, Dumbledore, who was forcibly woken up, opened the door. He was wearing a light-colored long robe pajama and a soft triangular hat with a pom-pom, looking with sleepy eyes at the person who had disturbed his good dream.

Karl gave him a bright smile, "You're not asleep either, Albus! How about we go for a walk together?"

Dumbledore: "Huh?"

A few minutes later, Dumbledore, finally awake and understanding the situation, was speechless to the extreme.

"Karl, if we must walk, why can't we choose daytime?"

"There's no feeling in the daytime. An Eastern poet wrote, 'The moon sets on the willow branch, people meet after dusk,' which is a beautiful artistic conception."

Dumbledore covered his forehead, "Then have you considered inviting Grindelwald?"

"I did think about it, but then I gave up."

"Why?"

"Because you have a good temper. If it were that old man Grindelwald, he would definitely chase me all night. It would be too easy to get beaten up."

Karl's honest remark made Dumbledore lose his composure. So, good people are meant to be bullied, is that it?

This naughty boy!

"Alright, actually, there's something serious," Karl became serious, "The fish has taken the bait. When should we make our move?"

Dumbledore's expression shifted, "Are you sure?"

"Of course, Fire Treasure sensed it. Senior Tom's soul is on Professor Quirinus Quirrell."

After Karl finished speaking, Dumbledore gently tapped the table with his finger, falling into thought.

"Perhaps we shouldn't rush. At least Severus and Harry should find redemption from it. Anyway, he can't escape now."

Karl was noncommittal. The karmic entanglement between Lord Voldemort, Snape, and Harry was an insurmountable obstacle, an inescapable tribulation. It indeed needed to be severed and redeemed.

"I've recently studied fishing. After a fish takes the bait, especially a large one, you can't just pull it in directly, otherwise the fish might get away. The correct way is to play with the fish for a while first."

Karl: (2, 1)

Facing the eloquent Dumbledore, he seemed to see a generation of Air Force generals rising again.

"By the way, Karl, Minerva, Severus, Filius, Pomona, Hagrid, Quirrell and I have all set up our respective protective measures and checkpoints. What about you? Have you decided?"

Upon hearing this, Karl immediately smirked, "Of course, I've prepared a few simple math problems to test intelligence."

"Oh? It seems you and Severus have the same idea. He also prepared a logic puzzle."

Dumbledore was about to breathe a sigh of relief, but then Karl's perverted smile flashed in his mind, so he asked again, just to be sure, "Can you tell me what math problems they are?"

"Of course, they're just the Riemann Hypothesis, the Hodge Conjecture, and the Existence and Smoothness of the Navier-Stokes Equations— "

Dumbledore: ( )

"What's wrong, Albus? Why that expression? Is something amiss?"

Looking at Karl's honest and simple appearance, Dumbledore felt that Grindelwald was right; he was truly a little scoundrel.

"Karl, although I am a Wizard, I do have some understanding of the Muggle world."

The disappointed person shrugged, "Alright then, it seems the fun is gone. I'll just have to use the backup plan."

After a serious discussion with Dumbledore, the matter was finally settled.

Karl suddenly remembered something, "Albus, what did you mean by 'Nitwit, Blubber, Oddment, Tweak'?"

"What do you think?"

"Is it each house's perception of others? Or perhaps the negative labels of each house?"

Dumbledore laughed happily, "Neither. I just forgot my lines at the time, so I casually told a joke."

"But now I've discovered something interesting: your interpretation of that sentence actually makes some sense."

"I think others might also have different perspectives. Perhaps saying more such things in the future can inspire people to think."

Karl: —

Your jokes are always a mystery!

And the fact that Dumbledore tells jokes is far funnier than the jokes he tells.

Karl leaped onto the windowsill, looking at Dumbledore with concern.

"Albus, you're getting old, so don't stay up late. You should go to bed early from now on."

Dumbledore: — ·

Alright, alright, alright! You little brat, just you wait!

Tomorrow I'll complain to Minerva!

Chapter 76: Strange Occurrences at School and Two Parseltongues

After Hogwarts started, the young Wizards noticed many strange things happening at the school.

For example, on the first day of school, Hufflepuff House mysteriously lost ten House points.

For example, Professor Gotte Green, the Defense Against the Dark Arts Class Professor, became the school's vegetable patch manager.

For example, Professor Snape of Potion Class became even colder and more critical, especially towards the famous Harry Potter, whom he ridiculed and deducted points from in the very first class.

In fact, there were more strange things than just these, many of which the young Wizards were unaware of.

Hagrid was very puzzled as to who had cut down so many trees in the Forbidden Forest, and all of them were young, undeveloped trees.

Grindelwald was also wondering why the wolfsbane he had made kept disappearing one after another.

He suspected that little bastard Karl had stolen them, but he couldn't find any evidence.

Even after using Trace Reveal, he found no traces of human or magical creature activity.

Moreover, according to Grindelwald's senses, there was no possibility of the spells being dispelled.

To prevent Karl from summoning the wolfsbane with Accio, he even cast protective spells on them, but it had no effect; they still disappeared.

How strange!

However, even without the wolfsbane, Karl wouldn't go annoy the old man anymore, because he didn't have time.

Due to Headmaster Dumbledore's complaining, he was often taken to Professor McGonagall's office to study Transfiguration.

When he finally had some free time, he still had to reply to Charlie and Tonks and was urged by Judy to write stories.

Fortunately, he gained a lot, learning much about Dragon breeding and Auror training, as well as a large sum of Galleons.

And when he was with Nina, he certainly couldn't go see Grindelwald.

After all, Nina's elders had some run-ins with Grindelwald, and if the two of them knew each other's identities,

Their interactions might not be very harmonious.

At that point, would Karl help Nina? Or would he help Nina? This was truly a difficult choice!

So Grindelwald completely became a lonely old man, often sitting by the Black Lake, staring blankly at the giant squid in the water.

He even started to miss that little bastard.

"Ah…"

Karl lay on the lawn, groaning in pain, looking utterly dejected.

"What's wrong with you?"

Nina sat gracefully beside him, poking Karl's cheek with her finger.

"Just finished Defense Against the Dark Arts Class."

"Hmm—okay, I understand. Please accept my sympathy."

After Karl explained the reason, Nina's expression also became somewhat complex.

After all, Professor Quirrell's garlic smell was too potent; there was no part of the classroom where it couldn't be smelled.

For all the young Wizards, this was definitely a form of torture.

Even those who liked to eat garlic would find it hard to tolerate such a scent attack.

"Professor Gotte Green's teaching level was very high before. Why did the school change him? This Professor Quirrell is clearly—a bit worse."

Hearing Nina's subtle remark, Karl directly rolled his eyes.

"It's more than just a bit; there are hundreds of Elvis Hellers between them.

He felt that after a few more Defense Against the Dark Arts Classes, he would start to miss Grindelwald.

Just as Karl was wondering when to go annoy—to visit the old man, Nina grabbed his arms with both hands, trying to make him sit up.

"Hmm? What's up?"

"Karl, something is very strange, and I don't know if it's just my imagination."

Nina's tone was hesitant, and her eyes held a hint of confusion.

"What is it? Tell me."

"There might be a Parseltongue at school because my wand gave me a warning, but—unlike the clear warnings in the records, it seems the wand isn't sure. This has happened several times."

Nina frowned slightly, holding her wand horizontally in her palm, unsure of what the problem was.

Karl understood. This situation was actually normal. Although there were indeed two Parseltongues at school right now, their conditions were a bit special.

Lord Voldemort was currently only in soul form and possessed Quirrell, making him very difficult to detect.

And Harry Potter possessed the ability of Parseltongue because a part of Lord Voldemort's soul resided within his body, which was even more deeply hidden than the previous one.

"Just pretend nothing happened. Headmaster Dumbledore will handle this problem."

Karl picked up Nina's wand and twirled it a couple of times, feeling it was quite handy.

"Hmm—so you know about this too? And you're involved?" Nina sighed helplessly.

"Don't worry, Dumbledore is doing the fishing; I'm just helping to net the fish. There won't be any danger."

While comforting Nina, Karl pulled out his own wand, placed both wands side by side in his palm, and then was surprised to find two strands of Thestral tail hair automatically intertwining.

Huh? Can you play like this?

"Alright then, I'll listen to you."

"You just believed it like that?"

Karl raised an eyebrow, somewhat dissatisfied. Couldn't she have tried to persuade him a bit more, or expressed some concern?

Nina gave him an exasperated look, "Otherwise? I can't persuade you anyway! What else can I do if I don't believe it?"

Instead of telling this guy her worries, she might as well quickly improve her strength so she could face dangers with him in the future.

"Hmm—that makes sense."

Just as Karl and Nina were trying to separate the two wands, a gasp came from the Quidditch Pitch in the distance.

They looked over, only to see a young Wizard falling from a broomstick at a height of over twenty feet.

"Bang! Hiss!"

Karl helped with the sound effects, his face showing an empathetic expression of pain.

"He should be okay, right?"

Nina instinctively clutched Karl's sleeve. Their flying skills were equally terrible, and every time they rode a broomstick before, they worried about something like this happening.

"No big deal, just a small one. Look, he's getting up, but he'll definitely have to go to the Hospital Wing."

Karl watched Neville limp away from the Quidditch Pitch with Madam Hooch, beginning to anticipate the upcoming famous scene.

Soon, Malfoy and Harry both took to the air on their broomsticks, then began their Memory Ball snatching battle.

However, compared to Malfoy's awkward dodging, Harry's flying skills were clearly more than a cut above.

Nina's eyes widened in surprise, "These two first-year new students are too bold! Something just fell, aren't they afraid?"

Karl was speechless for a moment. How could you, who goes to the Forbidden Forest as if it's your own home, call others bold?

"Oh!"

Accompanied by Nina's gasp and the screams of the young Wizards on the pitch, Harry accelerated into a dive, incredibly dangerously catching the Memory Ball, then landed steadily.

"Karl, this guy is amazing! It looks like Gryffindor's Quidditch team will have a great Seeker next year. Now Cho and Cedric have a rival."

Looking at Nina's shocked expression, Karl narrowed his eyes, muttering sourly, "He's just average. I'm the inventor of the O'Linn Movement. Isn't that more valuable than this?"

As he was speaking, he saw Professor McGonagall rushing from the Castle towards the Quidditch Pitch.

Wait!

If he remembered correctly, Minerva would allow Harry to join the Gryffindor team exceptionally and even buy him a Nimbus 2000?

Karl: (⊙_⊙)

Damn! My mood just got worse!

Mom Cat never bought me one!

Even though I don't need it, I still—feel uneasy!

Annoying!

Chapter 77: What is lost and found is cherished even more; a different Halloween chaos.

"Minerva! I'm here!"

Karl walked into the Gryffindor Dean's office, flashing a brilliant smile at Professor McGonagall.

"Mm-hmm, I heard it from a long way off. No one else has such cheerful footsteps."

Professor McGonagall, who was working, smiled and looked up, noticing that the cat-like boy was holding a potted plant.

She recognized it as a Moon Dew Flower, its petals like crescent moons, displaying a clear and elegant blue-white hue.

It was named because it condensed sparkling dew drops under moonlight, and it was an important ingredient for brewing Felix Felicis.

"This is—"

"A gift for you! With its company, you're sure to have a joyful mood!"

Karl placed the Moon Dew Flower on the windowsill, then looked expectantly at Professor McGonagall.

How about it? Aren't you touched?

Professor McGonagall: (⊙_◎)

"Karl, tell me the truth, did you get into trouble? Is it serious?"

"Minerva, what do you mean? Is it wrong for me to care about you? Is that how you see me?"

Facing Karl's indignant questioning, Professor McGonagall took a great deal of effort to control herself from nodding.

Although she was indeed touched by the cat-like boy's concern, the recent concerns were too frequent, making her feel a bit flustered.

Over the past few weeks, her office was almost taken over by Karl's various small gifts.

magic quills, aromatherapy, cushions, tea sets—there were simply too many!

"Of course not! My dear Karl, I just—where are you going?"

"Hmph! I'm hurt! I'm leaving!"

Watching Karl's retreating figure, Professor McGonagall rubbed her forehead in distress.

What should she do? What exactly happened? She was truly not good at raising children!

After thinking calmly for a moment, Professor McGonagall got up and headed straight for the greenhouses behind the Castle.

She might as well ask Pomona; perhaps she could give her some good advice.

In the greenhouse, Professor Sprout, having finished a day of teaching, was inventorying her magical plants.

"Minerva? What brings you to me?"

"Hmm—I have a small problem that needs your help, regarding Karl."

Professor Sprout looked surprised at her words. "Karl? He was just in my class a while ago, and he seemed fine."

"It's like this—"

Professor McGonagall recounted all of Karl's recent unusual behavior. "Although this child used to care about me, he's never given so many gifts."

Professor Sprout: (one_-)

"What did you say he just gave you?"

"A Moon Dew Flower! It's very beautiful!"

Professor McGonagall's lips curved into a demure smile, subtly showing off: Isn't my cat-like boy thoughtful?

"Of course it's beautiful!" Professor Sprout pointed expressionlessly behind her. "Does it look familiar to you?"

Professor McGonagall looked back and saw two rows of Moon Dew Flowers on the wooden shelf. Because they were neatly arranged, it was clear that one pot was missing.

Ah, this... The atmosphere instantly became awkward.

After a moment of silence, Professor McGonagall gave an embarrassed smile: "Sorry, Pomona, I'll send it back to you later!"

"Forget it, it's yours."

Professor Sprout was also resigned. It's fine for you two to be a loving mother and son, but why am I the scapegoat?

"How about I deduct twenty points from him?"

"Those aren't Hufflepuff points!"

"Ahem—I'm just kidding!"

Professor Sprout rolled her eyes at Professor McGonagall. "When did Karl start giving you gifts?"

"At the end of last month, the fourth week of school."

Professor McGonagall blurted it out. She remembered every detail of the cat-like boy's thoughtful gestures.

"Hmm—let me think—" Professor Sprout's expression shifted. "Could it be because you gave Harry that Nimbus 2000?"

"Huh? No way, very few people know about that, and I didn't even tell Karl."

Professor Sprout shrugged. "Anyway, that's the only reason I can think of."

"But that's not like Karl's personality? Although he sometimes likes to fool around, he's actually very mature inside."

Seeing Professor McGonagall's puzzled look, Professor Sprout patted her shoulder.

"Minerva, this has nothing to do with personality or maturity. In fact, even now, I would be jealous if my mother showed favoritism to someone else. This is human nature."

"Karl lost his parents, and you are his closest elder. I think your relationship is already close to that of a mother and son, so it's normal for him to react this way."

"Minerva, what is lost and found makes people cherish it even more, and this is especially true for family affection. You and Karl are actually the same."

After listening to Professor Sprout's words, Professor McGonagall immediately felt a sense of relief.

Thinking that the cat-like boy had been seeking attention these days, a benevolent smile involuntarily appeared on her face.

"So that's it. Do I need to buy Karl a Nimbus 2000 too? But he doesn't seem to like broomsticks."

"Absolutely not. The same gift, and still coming after someone else's, aren't you afraid your cat-like boy will throw a tantrum? You just need to show him more care, let Karl know that he is your most beloved child."

Professor McGonagall agreed deeply, nodding emphatically. "That makes sense! Thank you, Pomona."

"You're welcome. Just make sure Karl leaves my flowers and plants alone."

"Ahaha! Definitely! Next time, definitely!"

At this moment, the Hufflepuff common room was in utter chaos.

Karl was pulling Cedric out by his legs, while Cedric, sprawled on the floor, clung to the sofa leg, refusing to let go.

"Karl! Let me finish my homework first! I'll go to practice once I'm done!"

"There's plenty of time to write at night. While it's still bright outside, hurry to the Quidditch pitch!"

Cedric was dumbfounded. When did Karl suddenly care so much about Quidditch matches?

"No need to be so anxious, right? We were the champions last year!"

Karl scoffed at this. "Cedric, you've degenerated! You've become complacent! Your eyes have been blinded by a small honor!"

"Just because you were champions last year, does that guarantee you'll be champions this year too?"

"Do you know that Gryffindor has a genius Seeker? He's even riding a Nimbus 2000."

"And Slytherin is full of rich people. Do you think they'll all switch to better broomsticks?"

"And Ravenclaw, Cho's goal is to become a Seeker. By then, I even doubt you'll be able to perform at your best."

"If our Hufflepuff team continues like this, we'll lose to Gryffindor, then lose to Slytherin, then lose to Ravenclaw. After that, there's nothing left to lose, we'll lose face completely!"

Cedric was bombarded by Karl's rant, and in a daze, he almost thought Hufflepuff had lost to Slytherin 0-700 last year.

He looked up at the team members standing around him. "Help me! Why are you just watching? Have you all finished your homework? You're going to get scolded!"

The team members all declared: "We don't care! Hurry up and train! Although we're enduring grievances, we're building character! For the victory of the match, we are duty-bound!"

Cedric: (A)

No, guys... Are those words you can come up with? Did you take the wrong medicine?

He turned to look at Judy Foley, who gave him a helpless expression. "I'm in sixth year now, and I'm only responsible for my own year's affairs. You should look for the new Prefect."

Cedric immediately shifted targets, appealing for help again. "Prefect Gabriel! Save me!"

Gabriel Truman looked at Karl, then gestured with his hands. "Abba, abba, abba—"

Judy suppressed a smile and translated seriously, "He said he ate Devil's Snare salad and Mandrake sashimi last night, so he can't speak now."

Gabriel: Huh?

Cedric: Do you hear yourself? Are those human words? Why don't you go drink Aconite Leaf Soup?

Just as he was about to give in to Karl, he found his legs released.

What's going on? Did I win?

Then Cedric heard Karl's voice, "Cho admires excellent Seekers the most, so I'm going to introduce Harry Potter to her. I believe they'll get along well."

Before he even finished speaking, Cedric immediately flipped over, sprang to his feet, and stretched out his hand towards Karl like Er-Kang.

"Please wait! I'm going to the Quidditch pitch to train right now! If it doesn't kill me, I'll train until I die!"

Karl was very pleased. "Very good! Very spirited! What's our goal?"

Cedric hesitated. "Defeat the other Houses? Successfully defend the championship?"

"That's secondary! The important thing is to defeat Gryffindor! Make Harry Potter eat your dust on his Nimbus 2000!"

All the little badgers:

What did that child ever do to you? To make you target him like this!

Time passed with sunrises and sunsets until Halloween arrived, and Karl had long since returned to normal.

His cat-like mother's constant care and concern during this period successfully soothed his little emotions.

However, the Hufflepuff Quidditch team's training did not decrease, because Cedric also became abnormal.

To gain Cho's admiration, he trained in wind and flew in rain, vowing to become the best Seeker at Hogwarts.

Team members: Character! Everything for character! We are not afraid of grievances!

As night fell, the Professors and young Wizards entered the newly decorated Great Hall.

There were strange Halloween decorations, ghostly pumpkin lanterns, and bats flying in the air, along with drifting dark clouds.

Karl observed the Gryffindor long table and the Professors' long table, and did not see Hermione or Quirrell.

It seemed that without his interference, everything was proceeding along its original trajectory.

Sure enough, not long after the feast began, Quirrell rushed into the Great Hall with a terrified expression.

He stumbled and crawled to Dumbledore's table, gasping, "Troll! In the dungeons—I thought you knew—"

Then he collapsed directly to the ground, fainting. His acting was truly excellent; Karl even wanted to applaud him.

What do you call an old artist? This is it!

Just as the first-year students were in a panic, Dumbledore and Karl exchanged glances, then raised their wands and released purple fireworks.

"Calm down, children! It's just a Troll! No need to panic! The Professors will take care of this!"

"Prefects and older students, please look after the first-year students of your respective Houses and continue with your meal."

After speaking, Dumbledore had Professor Flitwick and Professor Sprout look after the unconscious Quirrell.

He himself, along with Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape, quickly left the Great Hall to search for the invading Troll.

Karl looked at Quirrell, who twitched on the ground, and couldn't help but laugh.

If this guy had left Hogwarts after Easter, he definitely wouldn't have used this method now.

Trying to cause panic with a Troll and create an opportunity to steal the Philosopher's Stone, in today's Hogwarts, it's really like a duck closing its eyes—completely unnecessary.

Are you kidding me!

Except for the first-year Wizards, everyone else had experienced the Acromantula attack on the Castle. How could they panic over a Troll?

Especially the sixth and seventh-year students, who had personally participated in blocking the spider swarm, and basically had several Acromantula lives on their hands.

If Dumbledore hadn't told them to watch the children, the Professors wouldn't even need to intervene; these guys would be rushing over to obliterate the Troll.

A Troll? Can it compare to the ferocious, violent, tide-like swarm of Acromantula?

The first-year Wizards were originally very scared, but seeing their calm and composed seniors, who were eating and drinking as usual, and even showed some regret, they couldn't help but fall into confusion.

Aren't you all scared?

So the older students quickly began to tell stories from the past, with animated expressions and spitting.

Karl was eating meat and enjoying the amazed and admiring expressions of the young Wizards when he suddenly heard footsteps behind him.

He turned around and saw that it was Grindelwald.

He was about to friendly greet him, but the old man's next sentence was already on its way.

"Come with me, there's something going on in the Forbidden Forest."

Karl's expression turned serious, and he quickly followed.

Chapter 78: A Different Grindelwald and the Hunting Hour

The two of them moved swiftly, quickly leaving the Castle, passing through the greenhouses and vegetable patches, and entering the Forbidden Forest.

"What's going on?"

"There are a few dirty rats, sneaking into the Forbidden Forest. They don't seem to have good intentions."

Carl stretched his body, gripping his wand. "Why don't you catch them yourself? I haven't even eaten enough yet!"

What's wrong? Do they have multiple Dumbledores? Can't even the old man handle it?

Grindelwald shot him a look of disdain. "Do you think I don't want to? Didn't Albus tell you to keep an eye on me?"

The honest and Nearly Headless Nick came back online, directly denying it three times: "I don't know, it's not me, I haven't heard anything."

Carl widened his eyes, trying to make the old man see his sincere gaze.

"You little liar! I'd sooner believe a Teebo Warthog than you!"

"Hey! Old man, you—"

"Am I insulting Teebo Warthogs by saying that? My apologies then!"

Carl: (╯‵□′)╯︵┻━┻

Long time no see, this old man's level of passive-aggressiveness has gotten higher and higher.

Could it be that he's been studying this all this time? Can farming lead to enlightenment?

Seeing that he had the upper hand, Grindelwald immediately felt his back no longer aching, his legs no longer hurting, and his breathing became much smoother.

"You little bastard, what have you been doing lately? I haven't seen much of you."

"What? Miss me?"

"Heh!" Grindelwald chuckled. "I want to know what other bad things you've been up to."

Carl rolled his eyes. "Then you're going to be disappointed. As a sunny and cheerful big boy, an honest and reliable young gentleman,

I only do positive and good things. Do you understand what truth, goodness, and beauty are?"

This sentence directly silenced Grindelwald, making him somewhat suspect that the meaning of some words might have changed during his decades in Nurmengard.

"Old man, what's the origin of the rats you found? Could they be poachers in the Forbidden Forest?"

This wasn't Carl guessing wildly, because the Forbidden Forest was home to many magical creatures, so many Wizards risked poaching every year. Hagrid, besides being the Keeper of Keys, also served as the Gamekeeper.

Grindelwald shook his head. "No, they are more like the group Albus mentioned."

Carl's expression sharpened. "Elvis Heller? Herpo the Foul's followers?"

He and Dumbledore had long been mentally prepared for the arrival of these Dark Wizards.

After all, besides the Nearly Headless Nick and the Cursed Demon Gun Gae Bulg, Hogwarts also had the Spiral Demon Sword Caladbolg, which Elvis Heller and others lost during their last failed operation.

"I haven't seen them, I just suspect, I can't be sure. It's not far now, quiet."

"Don't scare them away. I don't want to be chasing rats in the Forbidden Forest in the middle of the night."

Grindelwald gently patted his chest with his hand, and the Disillusionment Charm made him disappear.

Although Carl really wanted to follow suit, he couldn't use that spell, so he could only make do with the Disillusionment Charm.

It was true that Grindelwald was a treasure old man; he always came up with new tricks that made him envious.

The two continued for a while longer, until Carl was stopped by Grindelwald, who placed a hand on his shoulder.

Are we there?

Grindelwald no longer concealed himself, reappearing, and elegantly drew a circle above his head with his wand.

"Whoosh!"

Violent Fiendfyre shot into the sky, encircling an entire section of the forest ahead, forming a huge ring of fire.

Is this the Fire Shield Charm?

Well, it doesn't really matter.

Because Grindelwald's demeanor and aura at this moment were completely different from his usual self; he was incredibly elegant.

Coach! I want to learn this!

After all, being powerful is only for a moment, but being cool is for a lifetime.

Carl watched as Grindelwald, surrounded by swirling Fiendfyre, walked into the forest with a swaggering gait.

Before entering the circle of fire, he turned back and raised his chin at Carl. "What are you waiting for?"

"Ah? Oh! Coming, coming!"

Carl summoned his Fiendfyre cloak and quickly scurried over, following the big boss into the scene.

Merlin's fishnet stockings! Is this still the usual sarcastic old man? He's impossibly cool!

Oh my god! This is me!

At this moment, the Dark Wizards startled in the forest were already on high alert. There were seven of them in total, fewer than expected.

Seeing Carl and Grindelwald appear, they immediately cast Avada Kedavra, seven green lights piercing the night sky.

"Crack!"

Carl waved his wand, and the trees on both sides instantly deformed and bent, blocking the incoming emerald lightning.

In the explosion, several large trees were directly broken, wood chips flying and shattering everywhere.

He was about to send a warm Fiendfyre their way, but Grindelwald stopped him. "What's wrong?"

"Did you only learn to play with fire at Hogwarts? Show me something else. These rats can't escape from here, you can show off as much as you like."

Through Dumbledore's description and Carl's recent summoning of the Fiendfyre cloak, Grindelwald already knew Carl's mastery of fire, but he wanted to know how good this little bastard was at other things.

"Aren't you also playing with fire? So troublesome!"

Carl grumbled, but his actions were honest. He raised his hand and cast Sectumsempra.

After all, this was direct guidance from a master; how many people wished they had this opportunity to kneel and learn!

An invisible, traceless attack with no visual effects instantly hit two Dark Wizards.

Their bodies were torn open, blood gushing out like a spring, and after a short, mournful cry, they painfully collapsed to the ground.

"Watch out!"

The remaining Dark Wizards no longer bothered to guard against Grindelwald, as this young Wizard was clearly a big problem too.

"Go all out and kill this kid! I'll deal with that old man!"

One of the Dark Wizards, wearing a cloak and seemingly the leader, gave the order and walked alone towards Grindelwald.

The other four Dark Wizards immediately charged at Carl, their expressions twisted and their eyes full of malice.

"Confringo!"

"Reducto!"

"Avada Kedavra!"

"Crucio!"

The ground shattered with a roar, and vegetation turned to dust.

A series of explosions kicked up a sky full of smoke and dust, with emerald light cutting through it, soaring through the air.

Carl: (＃°Д°)

Holy crap! Is that really necessary?

Seeing such a terrifying and frightening scene, Carl immediately transformed into a Jungle Cat and bolted.

I'm out of here! Who can withstand this?!

He was almost traumatized by these overreacting Dark Wizards. What kind of decent person starts with big moves?

After a series of dodges and maneuvers, he burst out of the attack range. Carl immediately transformed back into human form and gently pointed his wand at the lingering smoke and dust.

"Fumos!"

Thick smoke billowed, blocking out the moonlight, and the battlefield plunged into darkness, making it impossible to see anything.

"Ah!"

A scream rang out, and Sectumsempra tore through another Dark Wizard.

In the smoke, Carl, guided by Fire Treasure's directions, raised his wand as he moved.

The hunting hour has begun!

Chapter 79: The Way Shadow Isle Greets You

The three Dark Wizards who survived the smoke sensed danger and immediately cast Shield Charms for protection, beginning to break free.

"Wind Swirl!"

"Whirlwind Sweep!"

"Glow Flash!"

The roaring wind dispersed the smoke, and the other two Dark Wizards moved closer to their accomplice who was casting a Wand-Lighting Charm.

However, after only a few steps, their bodies suddenly stopped, "Watch out behind you!"

The warned Dark Wizard was startled, but before he could react, he heard a crisp cracking sound.

Karl used a Diffindo to shatter the Shield Charm, then slammed a Stupefy onto him.

The Stupefy worked well; this Dark Wizard immediately fell asleep, looking like he had a very good night's rest.

"Avada Kedavra!" x 2

Karl dodged the two intertwining Avada Kedavras while not forgetting to add a Petrificus Totalus to the unconscious Dark Wizard.

The powerful killing curses destroyed all the trees in their path; trunks tilted and fell, and branches and leaves dropped.

Maneuvering skillfully amidst the wreckage, Karl raised his wand, and a blue flame erupted with a powerful shockwave whistling through the air.

Dust and stones flew! Electrical surge!

The two Dark Wizards had no intention of resisting with a Shield Charm and immediately retreated.

"Boom!"

The ground cracked and collapsed, and the flying dust once again obscured their vision.

With a wave of Karl's sleeve, the scattered branches and stones transformed into lion-griffins and snakes, overwhelming the dust cloud.

He, meanwhile, twirled his wand, avoiding the dust and taking a detour. With each step, a thick black mist, like ink dropped into water, rapidly spread across the ground, corroding everything.

Karl hadn't used this stuff yet, so it was a good chance to test its effectiveness. These two Dark Wizards were truly lucky.

"Confringo!"

"Bombarda!"

Facing Karl's army of transformed animals, the two Dark Wizards were overwhelmed and had no choice but to blast and shatter everything in front of them.

However, before they could even breathe a sigh of relief, they found their surroundings eerily quiet.

A feeling of oppressive fear quickly accumulated in their hearts, creating a suffocating sensation.

"Careful! Something's wrong—"

"Ah! Save me! Ah—"

The Dark Wizard who had given the warning watched in horror as his accomplice was suddenly enveloped by an ominous black mist.

Amidst his mournful wails, his face twisted in pain, and he rapidly melted and dissipated, becoming part of the black mist. Then, in a corpse-green glow, a terrifying wraith appeared.

It greedily glanced at him, its eyes filled with malice and desire, then knelt and bowed towards the side.

The terrified Dark Wizard trembled all over and instinctively turned his head, only to see the young Wizard approaching with light steps.

Run! This is a devil!

He wanted to turn and flee, but found himself also enveloped by the evil, ominous black mist.

Trying to hold his wand tightly to resist, he only felt fine powder leaking from between his fingers; his wand had already been corroded into dust by the black mist.

"What—what is this?"

"Just the way Shadow Isle greets you."

Karl crossed his arms over his chest, stroking his chin as he observed the wraith that had submitted to him, feeling that his own style seemed a bit off.

"Hiss, isn't this too terrifying? He doesn't look like a good guy at all!"

He was clearly a protagonist, but if others saw this, who would be able to tell who the villain was?

Thankfully, he tested it this time. Otherwise—he absolutely couldn't release the Soulstealer Night Black Mist in front of Minerva and Nina in the future, because they would definitely be scared.

As for whether Grindelwald would find out, Karl didn't care at all, because that old man had a flexible moral bottom line in this regard.

"Please! Please—spare me!"

Looking at the Dark Wizard crying and begging for mercy, Karl gave him a benevolent smile.

"Don't be a coward! Where's that ferocity you had when you were throwing killing curses at me just now?"

"I'm sorry! Please spare me!"

Karl tilted his head towards the wraith, then turned and left. He was too kind-hearted to witness bloody scenes.

The long-awaiting wraith immediately pounced on the Dark Wizard, tearing him apart, devouring his flesh and drinking his blood amidst his screams.

Soon, another wraith was born.

They followed Karl's steps with the black mist, merging into his shadow and disappearing.

Listening to the bursts of explosions from afar, and the screams and wails mixed within, the cloaked Dark Wizard felt his heart, which had been hanging, about to die.

His original idea was to hold back the most dangerous old Wizard himself, and after his subordinates killed the young Wizard, they would then team up to eliminate the opponent.

But now, it seemed no one would be joining him.

As expected of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, even a young Wizard possessed such power.

The cloaked Dark Wizard dared not wipe the cold sweat dripping from his forehead, cautiously observing the old Wizard opposite him.

Seeing the other party's calm demeanor, and then looking at the raging Fiendfyre trapping them, he knew that this time, his chances were slim.

He held his wand horizontally in front of him, ready to fight to the death and see if he could find a glimmer of hope.

Just then, the distant battlefield fell completely silent.

As footsteps sounded, the cloaked Dark Wizard saw the young Wizard appear.

A wild boar followed him, which transformed back into a tree trunk upon approaching, on which lay his subordinate.

So one was captured alive, that's even worse than dying.

The cloaked Dark Wizard flicked his wand, and an Avada Kedavra shot straight at his captured subordinate.

Unfortunately, the greenish-yellow beam was intercepted by a flying stone halfway there.

"Boom!"

Amidst the explosion, shattered stones flew.

The cloaked Dark Wizard had no time to continue killing to silence, because a blue lightning bolt like a long whip struck down.

He dodged wildly, only to find the lightning whip lashing down on him.

He barely managed to block a few strikes with a Shield Charm before being knocked to the ground, and could only roll backward while casting Shield Charm with his wand.

"Ah—"

After a scream, the cloaked Dark Wizard, struck by the lightning whip, curled up on the ground, trembling incessantly.

Grindelwald then dispelled the blue lightning on his wand, and the ground was already crisscrossed with dense, charred cracks. "As my prey, remember to stay quiet and don't move without permission, or I'll get angry."

Grindelwald pointed his wand at the cloaked Dark Wizard, speaking arrogant words in a calm tone.

Karl quickly wrote that down, just in case he could use it sometime in the future.

But why did that scene just now feel a bit familiar?

Damn it! New York subway station! Newt was brutally beaten by the old man's lightning whip back then!

"Cough, cough! I'm all done over here, why haven't you finished yet?"

Grindelwald gave Karl a disgusted look, "Do a few rats make you feel proud and complacent?"

Hey! When this old man gets serious, why does even his way of speaking change?

"They are Herpo the Foul's followers after all, so they can't be considered rats, can they?"

"Confirmed?"

"Of course."

After turning the two Dark Wizards into wraiths, Karl naturally knew everything about them.

"What else could someone who follows the despicable Herpo the Foul be but a rat?"

Grindelwald scoffed with disdain, his mockery reaching its peak.

In Karl's opinion, this had a bit of the 'rivals in the same trade' vibe, after all, the old man also ran an organization.

His words implied, "Only those who follow me are truly someone."

(1G.0) Karl secretly pointed and commented.