Hogwarts and the Holy Grail War

The main reason was that he was afraid that if it happened a few more times, his perverted instincts would no longer be able to be suppressed and he would kill Alanna on the spot.

I don't want to be sent to Azkaban or Nugamund for copper smelting!

bang-

The door of the ward was suddenly pushed open, and Professor Figo rushed in first, rushed to Ethan and pressed his shoulder: “Ethan, what did you do to Miss Shanans?

"Shanans? Which Shanans?" Ethan looked confused.

There are two Shanans here. Professor, are you talking about the smaller one next to me or the larger one in the next ward?

"Eleazar! Calm down first." Dumbledore walked into the room slowly, and the other professors followed him in one after another.

He looked at Alanna, who was still snuggling next to Ethan, and raised an eyebrow: “It seems that both Miss Shanans are awake.”

Alanna quickly let go of Ethan's hand and sat upright on the bed: "Hello, professors."

"Well, I'm glad to see you're okay, Miss Shanans." Professor Figo nodded to Alanna, stepped away from Ethan and returned to the group of professors.

"Ethan, tell us the truth, what tricks did you play in secret? How did you remove such a strong curse from Miss Shanans?" Professor Figo asked in a deep voice.

"Uh, Professor, is it possible that she woke up on her own and it has nothing to do with me?" Ethan had cold sweat on his forehead.

He didn't expect that Professor Figo would point the finger at him right from the start, and question him without any concealment in front of other professors, leaving him no room to breathe.

This was very unusual for Professor Figo. Normally, he was a very amiable old man. He had violated school rules so many times, but he had never been so angry. Even when he thought he had hurt Alanna just now, he had never been so impatient.

"Don't be ridiculous. She didn't wake up earlier or later, but she woke up after you came to St. Mungo's. How could it be such a coincidence?"

"St. Mungo's has such a large number of customers every day, why is it me?" Ethan continued to be stubborn.

"The healer had just examined Miss Shannans at eight o'clock last night. At that time, the curse on her showed no signs of improvement. You and Miss Shannans arrived at St. Mungo's at a quarter past eight, and around half past eight you came out of Sen Bakar's ward to find the healer. During this period, besides the healer, you were the only one who entered her ward! Don't even think about denying it!"

Professor Figo ruthlessly exposed all of Ethan's flaws.

When they first entered Sen Bakar's ward, they were indeed frightened by Ariel's lively appearance and thought they were hallucinating.

Compared to the other professors who were still a little confused, he immediately thought of Ethan. If it was his ancient magic, maybe he could really do something of this level.

Thinking back to what the healer had mentioned before, the curse on Alanna had actually been removed before coming to St. Mungo's, and this was probably done by Ethan. In addition, Ethan had been hesitant at this time and before, and Professor Figo suddenly had an ominous idea in his mind.

Why did Ethan want to hide the fact that he treated the Shanans sisters? It was not something shameful, so why was he afraid of others knowing?

The reason why he chose to conceal the truth of the matter and even refused to say more about it himself was most likely because the method he used had some negative impact on himself, and he was afraid that they would worry about his condition, so he was unwilling to disclose these things.

After thinking about this, he didn't even think about staying in the ward for a moment to play dumb with other professors, and immediately ran over to interrogate Ethan. Just like Alanna, he also cared about Ethan, and didn't want Ethan to hurt himself because of anything.

"Tell us the truth, Ethan. Is the reason you've kept these things from us related to the methods you've used?"

Ethan remained silent, thinking, Professor, why are you asking so much? Could it be that the matter of ancient magic can be openly discussed in front of other professors?

But in Professor Figo's view, his silence has a different meaning.

"Sure enough." Professor Figo seemed to have discovered some shocking secret and said dejectedly, "The reason you didn't tell me is because the method you used has side effects, right?"

"What price will you have to pay to help them recover from the curse? Will it cost you your lifespan, or will it cost you your soul?"

Ethan was speechless for a moment: "Professor, I..."

He really didn't expect that Professor Figo could think of it to this level.

That made sense. After all, the attitude he showed in order to get Alanna out of this mess was too abnormal. And with the information gap, it was hard to say what kind of speculation they would make and what outrageous conclusions they would draw.

Thus, an unpleasant misunderstanding arose. Professor Figo believed that the reason Ethan concealed the truth was because he used some life-saving skills to treat Alanna and Ariel.

Although according to his limited understanding of ancient magic, casting ancient magic does not require the caster to pay any price or go through steps similar to equivalent exchange, it is still able to remove the black magic curse that is deeply attached to the human soul without causing any harm to the human body.

You have to know that even the healers at St. Mungo's will inevitably cause some minor negative effects on the patients' bodies when removing some serious curses from them. After all, it is a curse. If what Ethan did requires the caster to pay some price, it is reasonable.

Although the other professors standing here didn't know about ancient magic, they were able to piece together the "truth" of the matter from Professor Figo's few words:

They thought that Ethan had used some kind of black magic to do this. Although doing so could indeed cure the curse on Ariel, the price Ethan had to pay for casting this black magic was not small, such as shortening his lifespan.

The reason why Ethan escaped from Hogwarts and caused trouble for the Salamanders was because the Salamanders had this kind of black magic that could save people, and he needed this power.

As for how he knew this information, it was probably because he overheard the conversation with the Fire Serpents in the Forbidden Forest. Although Cassandra didn't pay attention to this, Ethan, knowing Ariel's situation, naturally took it to heart.

The reason why he didn't mention this to any professor was because he was afraid that they would worry. He knew that if he told the professors about his plan in advance, they would definitely oppose it, and they might even pay special attention to him and prevent him from sneaking out of Hogwarts.

And his previous vagueness towards them could be explained. Naturally, he just didn't want them to worry about him further.

What a perfect explanation!

"Okay, Mr. Ethan. You don't have to explain anymore. We understand what you are thinking."

Dumbledore raised his hand to interrupt Ethan's words, and there was a hint of solemnity and appreciation in his eyes when he looked at Ethan.

Although his way of doing things was still inappropriate and even a little arrogant, he did think enough for a student.

It was probably also false that Miss Shanans was tricked by him into going to Red Tomb City. Although the truth was still unknown, there was no need for him to expose Ethan's lie.

Just think of yourself as being fooled by Ethan. What you should consider now is Ethan's physical condition.

The other professors also looked at Ethan with somewhat complicated expressions.

At this moment, they didn't know whether they should feel sorry for Ethan's understanding, or blame themselves for not being able to give him the sense of security he deserved in this matter, which led him, a student, to choose to take the risk on his own.

It's really that everyone is Dihua.

"No, Professor? Why are you looking at me like that?"

Ethan faced the strange looks from the professors and began to have doubts in his heart.

I feel like this matter has started to become a big deal in a way I never expected.

Alanna tugged at Ethan's clothes, looking worried: "Ethan, what Professor Figo just said couldn't be true? Your body..."

What Figo said just now also woke her up. How could there be such a cheap thing in the world? Ethan said it was easy before, but it was very likely that he really concealed the price he would pay behind it.

After all, this is not the first time he has done such a thing.

"It's okay. Professor Figo's words are just groundless worries." Ethan didn't know whether to laugh or cry. "I'm in good health and I haven't suffered any negative effects from this at all."

"So you admit that you did it, Mr. Ethan?" Snape looked at Ethan coldly. "Since you insist, let's go to the treatment room next door for a check-up. Let's see if your physical condition is really as intact as you said, how about it?"

Ethan spread his hands: "Of course you can, but this is really unnecessary, Professor Snape. I'm fine, and there's nothing wrong with me even if I check."

Seeing Ethan so calm and composed, the professors became more nervous.

It is said that only you know your own physical condition best. Since he is so calm, it means...

Are the injuries he suffered such difficult and complicated diseases that cannot be detected by normal examinations?

Seeing the professors' increasingly serious expressions, Ethan felt that he really needed to clarify this misunderstanding immediately.

"No, professors. You guys are making things a little too complicated." Ethan smiled bitterly and admitted reluctantly, "Actually, the truth is just as you said. I do have to pay a price for doing this, but it's really not as serious as you think."

If he still said that he did this without any cost, the professors would definitely not believe him. It would be better for him to take advantage of the situation and create a debuff to dispel their doubts.

This would allow the professors to put aside their unnecessary worries about themselves, and would also allow them to ignore the things they had concealed about the Red Tomb City, so that they wouldn't dwell on this issue and eventually bring Alanna into the picture.

"So what is the price?" Professor Garrick asked.

"Well, I just felt a little weak in my limbs, and a little listless. That's why I couldn't hold on and fell asleep on the bench outside." Ethan pretended to be helpless and added, "But I've recovered now. It's not a lasting injury."

"Then why did you keep it from us?" asked Professor McGonagall.

"Because this involves dark magic to some extent, plus I've been skipping school, I'm afraid you'll expel me if you find out." Ethan winked at Professor Figo, and the old man immediately understood and put aside his doubts.

The professors' faces finally relaxed.

"And professors, think about it. After all, I skipped school in violation of the rules. If I really got into trouble because of this, I would definitely pretend to be sick and pitiful so that you can reduce my punishment. How can I hide it like this?"

Seeing that the atmosphere in the ward was finally not as tense as before, Ethan felt that the matter was over and started a joke.

"Can't you use your smart brain for the right thing? You keep thinking about these unorthodox things all day long." Professor Figo smiled helplessly.

"Then we won't disturb your alone time with Miss Shanans. We'll see you at Hogwarts."

"Okay, professors, take care. I'm busy here so I won't see you off." Ethan waved goodbye perfunctorily and watched the professors walk out of the ward.

"By the way, Mr. Ethan." Before Dumbledore walked out of the ward, he turned around and looked at Ethan deeply.

"If you feel any discomfort again, be sure to tell the healers at St. Mungo's. We will go and greet them later, and they will provide you with the best treatment in a timely manner."

"Thank you for your kindness, Professor Dumbledore." Ethan nodded, "I won't force myself."

"That's good. By the way, I have one last thing to remind you." Dumbledore pushed his glasses, "There is no such thing as a free lunch in this world. Abusing powerful power will definitely lead to disaster. Before you use this power, you must think about the consequences of doing so. That's all I have to say. You can do whatever you want."

"I understand, Professor Dumbledore."

"We're leaving. Take care of Miss Shanans—both of them."

As soon as Dumbledore closed the door of the ward outside, he put his foot directly against the door and listened to the movement in the room with his ears perked up.

The other professors all smiled meaningfully upon seeing this, and followed Dumbledore to the door, except for -

"Albus? What are you doing?"

Snape, with his back straight, seemed so out of place among those disrespectful professors.

"Come on, Severus, come and hear what the youngsters have been saying while we're gone."

Dumbledore blinked and addressed Snape briskly.

"Boring."

Snape snorted disdainfully and put his ear to the door with an upright expression.

Alanna watched the professors leave the ward, and immediately leaned on Ethan's shoulder again, smiling and pinching the soft flesh on his waist:

"Okay, I knew you were hiding something from me!"

Ethan gasped and grimaced, "I swear to God, I really didn't hide anything from you about this matter. I just said that just to deal with the professors!"

"'This matter'? In other words, you are hiding something from me, right?" Alanna was keenly aware of what Ethan accidentally said, and the smile on her face became more dangerous. "If you have anything to say, just tell me. I won't be angry... Ethan?"

Ethan was now frowning and looking towards the ward door. He was so absorbed in his thoughts that he didn't even hear what Alanna said next.

"Ah? No, it's okay, just thinking about something." Ethan looked away and blinked.

"what's up?"

"I'm wondering if I should find an opportunity to formally confess my feelings to you again." Ethan said casually, his eyes returning to the tightly closed door of the ward.

"Haven't you said it once before? Didn't that count as a confession to me?" A hint of excitement flashed in the girl's eyes, and she pretended to be casually joking and testing him.

"Of course it counts."

Ethan's eyes became firm:

“It’s just that I think this is still a little different.”

"To be honest, I have never been able to face up to my feelings for you. Whenever people asked me about our relationship, I always used the excuse that it was just a concern between friends, deceiving others and myself. But yesterday, when you were cursed and in danger, I really realized that I really like you - not just family or friends, but the love between men and women."

"I really regretted not telling you about this earlier. You said you kept procrastinating, and so did I. Now that everything is settled, I can't let myself have the chance to regret it. Although I've already told you once before, I think it's better to say it again formally."

"Then don't wait for the right time. I think now is a good time." The girl kissed Ethan on the cheek and said with a smile, "Right here, go ahead and talk. I'm listening."

"it is good."

Ethan took a deep breath:

"I like you, Alanna. I hope to be with you forever. Will you be my girlfriend?"

"But... I'm not as good as you think." The girl's eyes lit up, and she played with her hair by her ears with her fingers, pretending to be reserved, "I don't have a rich family background, nor do I have such an outstanding appearance and figure. I will also be jealous and embarrass you from time to time. Why do you like me?"

"Maybe what you said is true." Ethan hugged the girl who had begun to pout, "But I just like you. No matter if you are usually well-educated and gentle, or if you are jealous and petty, as long as you are you, I like you."

The professors outside the door all showed satisfied smiles and continued to listen to the movements in the room.

In the ward, Ethan's voice continued to come intermittently:

"Originally, I was thinking of making a formal and passionate confession to you after returning to Hogwarts, but now I think it's not bad to do it this way. It's better to strike first, so that you won't be seduced away by other men."

"I won't be seduced by anyone else! I will follow you for the rest of my life." The girl was a little indignant at Ethan's words, pouting and saying dissatisfiedly. Then she asked expectantly:

"So how did you originally plan to confess to me? Was it a grand confession?"

"If you say that, I won't be sleepy anymore." Ethan suddenly became energetic.

"I've thought about it a long time ago. We're going to make a big scene. Ask Harry and the others to place a circle of scented candles in front of the common room, and then hang a circle of heart-shaped bubbles from the Black Lake to the window of your dormitory. Then, use the Amplifying Charm to shout "Alanna, I love you" so that the whole Hogwarts can hear it. When you come out of the common room, I'll say a lot of dirty talk to move you to tears. How do you think?"

"You'll probably be put in detention by Professor Snape if you do that." Alanna chuckled.

Ethan waved his hand indifferently, looking like a dead pig that was not afraid of boiling water: "Solitary confinement is fine. Anyway, I have a girlfriend, and he is still a bachelor, let's not bother with him."

An old bachelor who was eavesdropping outside the door heard this, frowned and silently drew out his wand, then rushed into the ward to give the boy a small green firework.