Fifteen minutes later, Matthew arrived promptly at the potions teachers office as per the schedule.
Considering Professor Slughorns repeated invitations and enthusiastic requests, and the fact that the man was the Head of his house, Matthew felt obliged to comply.
Ignoring his reservations might inadvertently co off as disrespectful.
With these thoughts in mind, he had eventually made the decision to attend.
Ah, Matthew, my dear boy! The door swung open, and Professor Slughorn greeted him with exuberance. Ive been waiting for you, co in, co in!
Professor Slughorns enthusiastic handshake tugged Matthew into the office. Tl
The grip was almost desperate, as if he feared Matthew might flee.
Apologies, Professor Matthew hastily interjected, There were certain circumstances that prevented from attending previously I was feeling a bit under the weather
Of course, of course, I understand, my lad Professor Slughorn interrupted Matthews explanation with a knowing smile and a nod. Step inside quickly Many people are eager to et you!
Matthew felt sowhat puzzled. Who could be waiting for him?
His confusion started to clear as he took in the scene within the office.
Apart from the familiar faces, a few new ones stood out
Adult wizards in their thirties and forties, perhaps all forr Slug Club mbers from years past.
Matthew, Id like you to et Dirk Creswell. Hes presently with the Fairy Liaison Office of the The Departnt for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures. Youd do well to forge a connection with him; he can provide valuable insight into Grings inner workings.
Dirk Creswell, a relaxed man in his early thirties, greeted Matthew with a courteous smile, reciprocated with a quick greeting.
And theres Mr. Ambrosius Flu from Honeydukes. You should be acquainted with him, at least with his candy.
Mr. Ambrosius Flu, older than Dirk, was a portly, bald man.
Matthew had crossed paths with him when using the secret passage in Honeydukes basent.
Wendy Slinkhard, author of the Theory of Magical Defense
Regulus Black, a rather dashing young man
Gwenog Jones, Holyhead Hobby Quidditchs captain
Undoubtedly, these were all forr pupils of Professor Slughorn.
Professor Slughorn took the ti to introduce Matthew to each of them.
However, save for Creswell, the others seed uninterested in Matthew.
A knock interrupted the introductions.
Professor Slughorn excused himself to greet the new arrivals, offering Matthew an opportunity to escape.
Spotting a familiar head of long brown hair in the midst of the gathering, Matthew approached.
Could you lend so light? he said, giving Hermione a slight nudge.
Sure, lets catch up! she responded while squeezing back into the corner.
Good evening, Hermione.
Hermione seed visibly excited. Have you t Wendy Slinkhard? The author of Theory of Defense I cant believe I have a chance to talk to her!
Calm down, Matthew cautioned, guiding her away from the crowd.
Hermione, Ive ntioned before, it might be wise to skip Professor Slughorns gatherings, he advised sternly. They could be risky.
Agnes Lestranges earlier warning had rit.
Professor Slughorns behavior had been peculiar, suggesting he might pose a danger, particularly to Muggle-born wizards like them.
He had warned Hermione about this earlier, but it seed she wasnt heeding his advice.
But Hermione began to argue softly, This might be our only opportunity to interact closely with experts like Wendy Slinkhard. I have so many questions for him.
She added, And besides, youre here too
Matthew realized he couldnt dissuade her.
In truth, he couldnt explain why Professor Slughorn had developed such an intense interest in him.
I still think caution is in order, he pressed, though it was an uphill battle.
I understand, Hermione replied, appreciative. Thank you, Matthew.
Matthew, Hermione! Neville arrival interrupted their conversation.
He had arrived a bit later.
Fantastic, Im joining you at Professor Slughorns dinner again! Neville bead. By the way, why werent you at the previous dinners? I felt quite alone then.
Apologies, I was occupied, Matthew quickly fabricated an excuse.
The three of them found a quiet corner to settle into.
Professor Slughorns dinner soon comnced, accompanied by several new faces and extra chairs around the round table.
The adult wizards and forr Slug Club mbers in attendance, being accomplished figures in the wizarding world, were highly sought after.
Each was surrounded by eager students vying for their attention.
The al, as always, was sumptuous and delectable.
Lets raise a toast to welco our distinguished guests! Professor Slughorn stood up, raising a cup of ad. To our guests!
To our guests!
The students raised their glasses in unison, Matthew included.
Tonights drink seed to be the imported foreign ad from the Three Broomsticks, distinctly more palatable than previous offerings.
Before we proceed, a gentle reminder as you depart this office: Keep our conversations discreet, Professor Slughorn added. Headmistress Rosier isnt fond of outsiders being invited into Hogwarts
Thus, I implore you all to maintain our confidentiality!
In addition, engaging with successful wizards can be beneficial for young minds, facilitating future successes So, fret not about speaking freely or feeling constrained
Professor Slughorn concluded his brief speech.
A round of applause erupted within the office.
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