Chapter 81: Millennia-old Events
"Quite a lot," Felix Harp remarked. "Many of the books I've read mention the four founders, but they're either vague and contradictory or only contain bits and pieces with little reference value."
He gave an example, "Take Salazar Slytherin, for instance. Many people fear him, dread him, calling him a dark wizard... but what's the truth behind it?"
"The truth?" Ms. Grey countered, "What truth do you seek?"
"Of course, the truth in your eyes," Felix replied, looking at her.
The ghost seemed lost in reminiscence, pondering for a while before solemnly stating, "Salazar Slytherin was an exceptionally skilled wizard, deeply in love with his wife..."
"Felix: ???"
Clearly, this wasn't the information he was after, but it was a good starting point nevertheless. So, he continued along her topic, "There's scarce information about his wife, indeed. However, many people mention that Slytherin's appearance was grotesque, resembling that of a monkey."
The lady looked at him with a hint of pride, "That was a side effect of his magical studies. Slytherin's original appearance was strikingly handsome, but as he delved deeper into those... dreadful areas, his appearance grew more and more intimidating."
Felix suddenly understood; it was like a puzzle piece falling into place. Slytherin had been transformed over time due to his studies.
"His presence was often accompanied by snakes. He wore dark or emerald green robes and emanated an ever-present aura of bloodthirstiness. His eyes also became... terribly terrifying."
Felix speculated that Slytherin might have integrated bloodlines from certain magical creatures.
"—His temperament grew increasingly extreme, and his disagreements with others escalated. There were more than a few explosive arguments, even his closest friend Gryffindor couldn't endure. But I must clarify, there was no outright conflict between them. He simply departed quietly, one tranquil morning, taking everything with him."
"He left behind the Chamber," Felix reminded her.
"Perhaps," she acknowledged, "but I've heard some rumors. Slytherin didn't hesitate to teach various cruel dark magics, something vehemently opposed by the other three founders. So, there are whispers that he secretly taught these terrifying arts to select students he favored, in hidden places."
Felix listened with fascination. How could mere pieces of parchment capture the grandeur of that historical period?
"What about the other three?"
"They were doing the same, but Gryffindor's fame overshadowed theirs. After a few years and the graduation of some students, their influence spread far and wide. Hogwarts' reputation reached the world, and there were few who dared to provoke it."
Ms. Grey concluded the story with a mix of pride and nostalgia.
Felix gained profound insights and sincerely expressed his gratitude, "Thank you, Helena Ravenclaw."
"NO! Call me by... this... name!" The ghost before him suddenly became excited. Her transparent cheeks seemed less transparent. Before he could react, she passed through the wall and disappeared.
Felix: "..."
Meanwhile, a low, raspy voice suddenly emerged, saying, "Do not utter that name. It's her taboo."
Felix turned around to find a gaunt, extremely pale ghost before him. The ghost wore an ancient wizard robe stained with silver blood marks and had a massive set of shackles on.
"Long time no see, Barrow."
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