With Professor Snapes departure, Matthew and Draco wrapped up their breakfast.
After consulting their class schedules, they discovered that the days first lesson was Herbology, a joint class for Slytherin and Hufflepuff students.
Walking out of the castle, Matthew joined Draco, Theodore, Vincent, and Gregory, forming a group of five.
They strolled across the grounds toward the greenhouse.
They noticed a gathering of students waiting outside as they approached the entrance.
Just as they were about to join the crowd, a familiar figure erged from the greenhouse.
It was Professor Slughorn, the Potions Professor and the Head of Slytherin.
In his arms, he cradled a bunch of leaves.
Oh, Matthew, Draco, Slughorn exclaid enthusiastically as he caught sight of the students.
Oddly enough, he seed to unintentionally disregard Theodore, Vincent, and Gregory.
Good morning, Professor Slughorn! Matthew and Malfoy chid in unison.
Ah, good morning, Professor Slughorn replied, his mood relatively buoyant. The morning air does wonders, doesnt it? Perhaps its a test for you lot. Care to venture a guess as to what this is?
While speaking, he gestured with the handful of leaves in his grasp.
Leaning in for a closer look, Matthew examined them for a mont. Is that Fluxweed?
Absolutely right! Slughorn bead with satisfaction. Most experts believe harvesting this herb in the morning is best. And let tell you, Pomona has really outdone herself nurturing these.
Theyll be used in the third-year curriculum. Each third-year student will receive a few leaves, with so to spare, just in case anyone overdoes it Youll be using these next year!
Ill be looking forward to it, Professor, Matthew replied.
Excellent! I must tend to my duties in the office now Oh, and Matthew, Draco, Slughorn turned to leave but suddenly recollected sothing.
Ah, yes, this Sunday evening marks the return of the Slug Club party. Be sure not to forget
And please make sure youre on ti! His voice dwindled as he walked away.
The Slug Club, founded by Slughorn himself, was an exclusive group comprising students he admired.
Matthew and Malfoy were among its mbers.
The club held gatherings every week or two, usually on weekends.
However, the Slug Clubs activities were suspended last October following an incident in which two Slytherin Slug Club mbers were attacked late at night while returning to the Slytherin common room from Slughorns office.
The party hiatus persisted for the remainder of the sester, even as the culprit behind the attacks remained at large.
With the new sester underway, the impact of those attacks had subsided, and the clubs parties were once again set to resu.
Professor Slughorns figure slowly disappeared from view.
Alright, kids, co on in! Professor Sprouts voice emanated from the greenhouse.
Students from Slytherin and Hufflepuff eagerly entered the greenhouse.
Professor Pomona Sprout, her gray hair concealed under a patched hat, greeted them.
Despite her sowhat disheveled appearance, her clothes and fingernails speckled with soil, everyone knew her to be a kind teacher.
Today, were heading to the third greenhouse! she enthusiastically announced.
The students were abuzz with excitent.
Until now, they had only explored the first two greenhouses.
The flora within the third greenhouse was intriguing and potentially hazardous.
Producing a large key from her waist, Professor Sprout unlocked the door.
Matthew stepped forward, instantly encountering the fragrant scent of damp soil and fertilizer mingled with a subtle floral aroma.
The fragrance proved intoxicating, almost dizzying. Matthew felt his head spin montarily.
Swiftly stepping back, he exited the greenhouse.
He wasnt alone in this reaction; other students who had ventured inside appeared equally off-balance.
So even appeared intoxicated, their faces flushed.
Step back, everyone! Step back! Professor Sprout urgently shouted, waving her hands. I never gave permission for you to enter!
Heeding her warning, they hastily retreated from the third greenhouse.
After a few breaths of fresh air, Matthew regained his equilibrium.
Professor Sprout soon followed, carrying a bundle of masks in her arms.
Alright, folks, I hadnt intended to pollinate the Flor flowers today. Now, can anyone tell about the characteristics of Aconite?
Matthew had a fair idea about the greenhouses occupants, but soone else was already ahead before he could raise his hand.
Very well, Miss Lestrange!
Lestrange stood up, speaking naturally.
Aconites, or tracking flowers, have petals closely connected to the rhizo when mature. Even if separated for a ti, the rhizo maintains a connection to the direction of the petals
This allows fresh Aconite petals to be placed near important items. If the petals are stolen, the rhizo can be employed to track them down.
Very well put, my dear, Professor Sprout comnded, motioning for her to sit. Additionally, Flor flowers are highly hazardous. Can anyone tell why?
Agnes hesitated montarily, but Matthew was already raising his hand.
Mr. Wickfield, please share your thoughts.
The pollen is highly poisonous, Matthew replied succinctly. Inhaling it in significant amounts can be lethal.
Exactly! Professor Sprout agreed, her tone matter-of-fact.
Aconite pollen is highly toxic. Even inhaled in smaller quantities, it can lead to unconsciousness for several hours. I dont think any of you would want to miss your first day of school, would you?
With that, she distributed masks to all the students.
Rember, you must wear at least four layers of masks. No shortcuts, no risks, she instructed, her voice ringing clearly.
Reviews
All reviews (0)