Hogwarts Outsider

Chapter 159: “Early Leave”

So, the reason behind Professor Slughorns fervor must be his own self-invitation to tonights event

Just because some of his former students were attending?

This explanation left Matthew perplexed. It seemed an unrealistic answer, too hard to believe.

From every angle, this banquet appeared odd and out of place.

Nonetheless, despite his reservations, he had no choice but to bear with it and take his seat.

With the addition of these accomplished wizards, the atmosphere in the Slug Club gathering had become even more vibrant.

People were no longer confined to their tables as before; they flocked around the new arrivals

Hermione rushed to find Ms. Wendy Slinkhard, apparently armed with countless questions for the author of Theory of Defensive Magic

Neville and a few Quidditch enthusiasts huddled near Gwenog Jones, the captain of the Holyhead Harpies Quidditch team, starry-eyed in admiration

Regulus Black, the handsome young man, was surrounded by a group of girls, their curiosity and excitement evident

Based on the current circumstances, Regulus Black in this world didnt appear to be aligned with Voldemort.

Yet, Matthew couldnt help but wonder if he had come to Hogwarts this year along with his brother Sirius Black.

Just as he contemplated his next move, a laid-back young man approached and took a seat next to him.

It was Dirk Creswell, the promising Ministry of Magic official.

Matthew recognized the name from somewhere in his memory, possibly as someone who had led a life on the run after Voldemorts rise to power in the original timeline.

It would suggest that Mr. Creswell might be a Muggle-born wizard.

This shared background gave him a certain degree of satisfaction.

Hello, Mr. Creswell! Matthew greeted him enthusiastically.

I recall your name, Wick Mr. Creswell looked at Matthew and remarked.

Wickfield, sir! Matthew corrected promptly.

Yes, Wickfield, thats right Mr. Creswell nodded, Professor Slughorn mentioned this name He seems to hold you in high regard

Yes, he did regard me highly, but its doubtful that his value of me aligns with my values, Matthew thought wryly.

Working at the Fairy Liaison Office, you must interact with Fairies regularly. Is that true? Matthew inquired, putting on an intrigued expression.

Yes, Mr. Creswell affirmed. Though the fairies at Gringotts arent the easiest to handle. They retain magical ability but lack wands They maintain theyre on par with wizards, though we dont share that view This sentiment has persisted since the various goblin uprisings

Mr. Creswell continued, Fairies can be greedy, shrewd, and conceited. Dealing with them can be tricky; theyre masters of deception if youre not careful To be honest, its not the most comfortable job

I see, Matthew said, the pieces falling into place.

They continued to chat amiably.

A few minutes later, Matthew asked casually, By the way, Mr. Creswell, are you familiar with our Transfiguration Professor, Professor Snape

Given Matthews hypothesis, there shouldnt be much of an age gap between Mr. Creswell and the real Snape.

You mean Severus? Of course, hes a year older than me Mr. Creswell answered nonchalantly. He was in Gryffindor while I was in Hufflepuff

Gryffindor Matthew couldnt help but frown.

I havent really seen him much since leaving Hogwarts. Wait, did you say hes teaching at Hogwarts now, handling Transfiguration? Unbelievable, I had no idea about that Mr. Creswell appeared somewhat surprised.

The two continued their conversation for a few more minutes.

At that moment, Matthew spotted Shafiq approaching.

Having intentionally kept his distance from Professor Slughorn, he felt the need to maintain a degree of separation from Miss Shafiq as well.

Slughorn was shrouded in mystery, and Shafiq, though seemingly innocent, might be inadvertently used against him.

Ever since Tom Gaunt had been exposed, she appeared to have no more need for their conversations.

With a hasty goodbye to Mr. Creswell, Matthew swiftly made his exit.

Neville! He approached Neville.

Miss Gwenog Jones, the Holyhead Harpies Quidditch team captain, stood tall with dark skin.

She spoke animatedly about her experience representing the Welsh team as a Beater at the Quidditch World Cup two years ago, eliciting cheers from the boys around her.

Neville Neville Matthew finally managed to divert Nevilles attention.

Whats up, Matthew? Neville inquired eagerly.

I suddenly have a stomachache. If Professor Slughorn asks, just tell him I went to the bathroom, Matthew explained calmly.

Got it. Neville responded quickly, then shifted his gaze back to Miss Gwenog Jones.

It seemed trying to get Neville and Hermione to leave the dinner early was quite unrealistic.

But as for himself, he was ready to slip away

Pretending to pour more mead, Matthew made his way to the Potions office door.

Once he was sure Professor Slughorn and the familiar faces werent looking

Without hesitation, he opened the office door and stepped outside, quickly leaving the room.

The corridor was chilly, but it was also a breath of fresh air.

Hed decided that if anyone asked, he would simply say he needed to use the bathroom.

The early leave plan proceeded smoothly.

It appeared that no one had noticed, and no one was chasing him.

From the teachers to the students in Professor Slughorns office, it seemed none had realized one of them was missing.

Walking alone through the Hogwarts corridor, he felt a wave of relief

wash over him.

Suddenly, he heard the sound of high heels clacking on the floor up ahead

The familiar sound of footsteps altered Matthews expression slightly.