Have we reached Hogsade? Nevilles excited cry echoed through the compartnt.
Dont be ridiculous; its only three oclock in the afternoon, Matthew retorted, glancing at his watch and shaking his head. I told you before, itll take at least four hours to get there.
Neville cast an annoyed look out of the rain-blurred window, his anticipation dampened by the weather and Matthews response.
The trains pace gradually slowed, its wheels producing a sharper sound against the tracks while the pelting of wind and rain on the windows grew louder.
Hermione craned her neck to peer down the aisle, observing countless heads popping up as passengers seed curious about the sudden change.
The entire cabin was buzzing with a sense of curiosity and concern.
In an instant, a chuckle sounded, followed by an unexpected lurch that sent everyone leaning to one side as the train abruptly stopped.
The distant sound of items falling suggested luggage had tumbled from racks.
The unfamiliar teacher nearly toppled from his seat to the floor, a surprised expression finally breaking through his stoic deanor.
He removed his earplugs and blindfold, revealing a puzzled frown on his pale face.
While not openly expressing his emotions, the strange teachers reaction was apparent.
With a calm deanor, Matthew wiped a clear spot on the window, allowing him to glimpse the dark figures floating in the sky outside.
The shapeless, black figures caused him to furrow his brows in apprehension.
Could it be his voice trailed off, his thoughts uncertain.
Before he could ponder further, a soft cracking sound resonated through the compartnt as the door was forced open.
Yet, the figure that burst in was not what Matthew had expected: instead of a cloaked, ominous presence, a small, round-faced wizard stood before them.
Dad! Nevilles astonished shout filled the air.
This marked the first ti Matthew had laid eyes on Mr. Frank Longbottom.
Standing at an average height with thinning hair and a sowhat youthful countenance, he didnt emanate the aura of an Auror.
Im here on official business, Mr. Longbottom coldly responded to his sons exclamation. On behalf of the Ministry of Magic, Im conducting a check to ensure no Azkaban escapees have infiltrated.
Nevilles excitent was swiftly replaced by obedience as he lowered his head.
Matthew noticed that Mr. Longbottom didnt step into the compartnt, maintaining a distance from the occupants.
His right hand remained hidden in his robe, a gesture that suggested he was ard with a wand.
One by one, step forward, he ordered, pointing at Matthew.
Matthew complied and approached Mr. Longbottom, who withdrew an instrunt resembling an alarm clock from his pocket.
After a brief, roughly ten-second scan, Mr. Longbottom pronounced, Youre clear, allowing Matthew to return to his seat.
Hermione and Neville underwent the sa process, during which Mr. Longbottom maintained distance from his son, their interaction minimal.
Co here, Mr. Longbottoms gaze fixed on the only adult wizard in the compartnt, commanding him to spread his hands beside him.
The reserved stranger complied, his actions devoid of hesitation.
As Mr. Longbottom conducted the examination, an unexpected occurrence disrupted the process
A high-pitched ringing emanated from the alarm-like instrunt in the Aurors hand.
Mr. Longbottoms expression shifted abruptly; he drew his wand with remarkable speed, aiming it at the mysterious wizard.
Even the stranger seed taken aback by the sudden developnt.
May I inquire as to your identity? Frank Longbottoms voice was cold and questioning as he addressed the stranger.
I am the new teacher at Hogwarts, ca the reply, but before the stranger could elaborate, Mr. Longbottom interjected, Fine, we can set truth aside for now. Before that, Id appreciate your cooperation for a more thorough examination. Are you willing?
Although the tone held a hint of skepticism, Mr. Longbottoms wand gestured towards the compartnt in a manner that brooked no refusal.
The stranger displayed continued cooperation, stepping out of the compartnt without hesitation.
Spread your hands and stand aside, Mr. Longbottoms stern voice accompanied his warning.
Soon, both figures disappeared into the aisle.
Whether they exited the train or moved to another car was unclear.
What just happened? The three companions exchanged bewildered glances, the recent event leaving them stunned as if caught in a dream.
This cant be real! Hermiones voice trembled with disbelief. What if that person claiming to be a new teacher is one of the Azkaban escapees?
Her face had paled, and fear lingered in her eyes.
Dont jump to conclusions; it might be a misunderstanding. Lets wait and see, Matthew suggested calmly, hoping to dispel the mounting tension.
Neville craned his neck to peer down the aisle, searching for any sign of his fathers presence.
Outside, raindrops fell more heavily, and shadowy forms in the sky seed poised for movent, though they kept their distance from the train.
Matthew hoped the examination wouldnt consu too much ti, but it proved otherwise.
The train remained stalled for almost an hour, testing their patience.
Finally, the Hogwarts Express resud its journey, and its siren wailed.
Yet, the enigmatic wizard whod claid to be the new teacher never returned.
This unexpected turn left the compartnts occupants uneasy.
The jovial atmosphere from earlier had vanished, replaced by silence and apprehension.
Neville looked anxious, Hermione uneasy, both struggling with their emotions.
The remainder of the journey passed without much conversation.
As darkness enveloped the landscape, the Hogwarts Express gradually slowed and ca to a stop at Hogsade station, shrouded in obscurity.
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