Chapter 159: 'Early Leave”

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 arrivalsnove(l)bi(n.)com

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.

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.