Hogwarts Outsider

Chapter 78: “Courage Wisdom and Cunning (2)”

Professor Rosier? Matthews voice trailed off, prompting simultaneous exclamations from Neville and Hermione.

Yes! Matthew nodded firmly.

Hermione appeared hesitant, her voice filled with disbelief. Professor Rosier how could she

Matthew turned to Neville, ready to provide an explanation. Neville, do you recall our second after-school practice this semester, when the first-year students from both our houses were together? Mr. Pringle instructed us to clean up Professor Rosiers office.

Neville nodded, memories flooding back. Of course, I remember. It was you, me, Evans, and the three of us that was also the day Ron was attacked.

On that day, while you and Evans were absent, I was alone, mopping the floor in Professor Rosiers office, Matthew recounted calmly. To my surprise, I discovered a drop of blood-like liquid under Headmistress Rosiers desk. Furthermore, there was a distinct smell of a decaying unicorn coming from the cupboard.

Hermione and Neville exchanged incredulous glances, their murmurs filled with astonishment.

Its true, Matthew continued, his voice steady. Moreover, Principal Rosier appeared on the scene immediately during the second attack in the potions classroom.

Hermione pondered with lowered head, considering the information. But on Halloween, when the unicorn was attacked, and Professor Kettleburn burst into the auditorium, Professor Rosier was seated in the main guest seat

Matthew anticipated this question. The time when the unicorn was attacked and when Professor Kettleburn found its body may not have been simultaneous. Its possible that someone initially attacked the unicorn and then returned to the auditorium, leading to Professor Kettleburns discovery.

Hermiones expression remained hesitant, still grappling with doubt.

However, having been persuaded by Matthews account, Neville spoke solemnly. Ive always had suspicions about Professor Rosier. Why did she suppress news of these attacks? Why didnt she cure Ron Weasleys poisoning? Why hasnt she declared a state of emergency at Hogwarts despite the numerous incidents?

I couldnt figure it out before, but now its starting to make sense, Neville continued resolutely. If she is the real culprit, it all falls into place.

Observing Nevilles conviction, Matthew nodded, somewhat satisfied.

But Hermione, regretfully, remained unconvinced. Professor Rosier, as the principal She has dedicated almost fifty years of her life to Hogwarts Why would she do this? What could be her motive for attacking students?

Who knows, Matthew shrugged, echoing Hermiones earlier words. But Hermione, youre being too naive. You always assume that the vice-principal of Hogwarts must be virtuous. However, all the evidence points to Professor Rosier as the most suspicious candidate

Hermione bowed her head, appearing lost in her thoughts.

After about half a minute, she raised her head again.

I still believe Professor Trocar is more suspicious, she stated thoughtfully.

Matthew felt a bit dizzy.

His intention in revealing the information about Professor Rosier was to divert the attention of his two friends and prevent them from focusing too much on Professor Trocars affairs.

However, Hermione seemed to be more stubborn than he had anticipated.

Lets split up! Neville decided. Both Professor Trocar and Professor Rosier raise great suspicions. Hermione, youll be responsible for following Professor Trocar, and Ill take charge of tracking Professor Rosier. Well surely uncover any evidence they may have left behind!

Upon hearing Nevilles words, Matthew felt a sense of overwhelm.

Hermione Granger, a clever young girl, could potentially expose any findings to the public, affecting the overall situation.

I must prevent them from doing this!

Nevilles gaze turned to Hermione. Hermione, if you happen to be caught by a teacher while tracking, shift all the blame onto me. Say that I instructed you to do it!

And you, Matthew Nevilles gaze shifted to Matthew once again.

His expression turned serious, devoid of any humor. Matthew, I know youre a good kid who follows the rules and doesnt want to break any school regulations. Unlike us, Hermione and I both have an adventurous spirit. But dont worry. Leave the investigation to us. Even if we get caught by a teacher during our pursuit, we wont implicate you! Thank you for providing us with such crucial information.

Being unexpectedly called a good kid by Neville, Matthew couldnt help but feel a bit flattered.

What about you, Neville? Hermione asked in a hushed voice.

The gazes of Matthew and Hermione naturally focused on Neville.

Neville smiled and replied, Dont worry about me. My parents have some connections with the Ministry of Magic. Even if something goes wrong, I wont be expelled. At most, I might be punished for a few days

Actually, Im used to it. He lowered his head and examined the marks left by the shackles on his wrists. Besides, you all come from Muggle families so the punishments would be stricter for you. My constitution is sturdier than yours. In short, no matter what happens, put all the blame on me!

His speech seemed intended to reassure them, and Matthew felt it would be inappropriate to shy away from it.

Neville, leave me the task of following Professor Trocar, Matthew replied calmly.

Matthew? Neville and Hermione looked at him in surprise.

Im the student Professor Trocar favours the most in Transfiguration class Its the safest choice for me to approach him, Matthew explained. You two should follow Principal Rosier. Be cautious, as I believe your task will undoubtedly be more challenging than mine!

Neville cast a grateful look at Matthew and then clasped his hand.

Lets work together to apprehend the true mastermind behind these incidents! Neville declared with determination.

Yes! Hermione chimed in, leaning forward.