Chapter 119: “Mr. Longbottom”


    Have we reached Hogsmeade? Nevilles excited cry echoed through thepartment.


    Dont be ridiculous; its only three oclock in the afternoon, Matthew retorted, ncing 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 seemed 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 demeanor.


    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 demeanor, Matthew wiped a clear spot on the window, allowing him to glimpse the dark figures floating in the sky outside.


    The shapeless, ck 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 thepartment 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 time Matthew hadid eyes on Mr. Frank Longbottom.


    Standing at an average height with thinning hair and a somewhat youthful countenance, he didnt emanate the aura of an Auror.


    Im here on official business, Mr. Longbottom coldly responded to his sons exmation. On behalf of the Ministry of Magic, Im conducting a check to ensure no Azkaban escapees have infiltrated.


    Nevilles excitement was swiftly reced by obedience as he lowered his head.


    Matthew noticed that Mr. Longbottom didnt step into thepartment, maintaining a distance from the upants.


    His right hand remained hidden in his robe, a gesture that suggested he was armed with a wand.


    One by one, step forward, he ordered, pointing at Matthew.


    Matthewplied and approached Mr. Longbottom, who withdrew an instrument resembling an rm 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 same process, during which Mr. Longbottom maintained distance from his son, their interaction minimal.


    Come here, Mr. Longbottoms gaze fixed on the only adult wizard in thepartment,manding him to spread his hands beside him.


    The reserved strangerplied, his actions devoid of hesitation.


    As Mr. Longbottom conducted the examination, an unexpected urrence disrupted the process


    A high-pitched ringing emanated from the rm-like instrument 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 seemed taken aback by the sudden development.


    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, came the reply, but before the stranger could borate, 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 thepartment in a manner that brooked no refusal.


    The stranger disyed continued cooperation, stepping out of thepartment without hesitation.


    Spread your hands and stand aside, Mr. Longbottoms stern voice apanied 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 threepanions exchanged bewildered nces, 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 iming 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 seemed poised for movement, though they kept their distance from the train.


    Matthew hoped the examination wouldnt consume too much time, but it proved otherwise.


    The train remained stalled for almost an hour, testing their patience.


    Finally, the Hogwarts Express resumed its journey, and its siren wailed.


    Yet, the enigmatic wizard whod imed to be the new teacher never returned.


    This unexpected turn left thepartments upants uneasy.


    The jovial atmosphere from earlier had vanished, reced 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 thendscape, the Hogwarts Express gradually slowed and came to a stop at Hogsmeade station, shrouded in obscurity.