Chapter 25: Magazine

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Dumbledore gazed disapprovingly at Ethan and remarked, "Is there an issue, Professor Ethan? It's quite impolite to disturb an old man's sleep."

Without responding to Dumbledore, Ethan earnestly informed him of Harry's ability in Parseltongue.

Dumbledore's expression swiftly shifted to seriousness. He settled into the office chair, intertwining his fingers—an old habit when deep in thought.

The revelation of Harry's Parseltongue ability caught Dumbledore off guard, prompting thoughts of Tom Riddle and the realization that the connection between Voldemort and Harry surpassed his expectations.

"Thank you for your assistance, Professor Ethan," Dumbledore expressed gratitude after a prolonged silence.

"Care for a story, Ethan?" Dumbledore, in pajamas, sat comfortably in the principal's chair, extending an invitation.

"I'd be interested," Ethan accepted. Seated across from the headmaster's desk, Dumbledore retrieved two glasses, snapped his fingers, and filled them with butterbeer. The taste was surprisingly delightful after a sip.

Dumbledore then recounted events at Hogwarts from 50 years ago. After hearing the tale, Ethan became serious. "Was Tom the last heir of the Chamber of Secrets? He used the monster to kill a girl and framed Hagrid?"

Dumbledore nodded solemnly.

"I initially devised a plan to thwart Voldemort, but now I realize things may be more complicated than anticipated," Dumbledore admitted, massaging his temples—an elderly figure at this moment.

"Ethan, I need you to safeguard Harry when necessary. He's very..." Dumbledore implored suddenly.

"Even without saying, as a professor, I'll protect Harry. I won't disturb your rest at this late hour any longer," Ethan abruptly stood, interrupting Dumbledore. While surprised by Ethan's response, Dumbledore acquiesced to his request, signaling that Ethan was free to leave.

Exiting the principal's office, Ethan let out a sigh. He feared Dumbledore might invite him to join the Order of the Phoenix, a prospect he vehemently opposed. Unwilling to be entangled in Dumbledore's grand plans, especially given the heavy casualties suffered by the die-hard Order in the original plot, Ethan had no intention of joining.

His current aspiration was to live in this world and carry on the Witcher's legacy. As for revealing Harry's Parseltongue ability to Dumbledore, Ethan believed that even if Harry withheld the information, Dumbledore's exceptional Legilimency skills could easily extract the truth. If Dumbledore sensed Ethan concealing Harry's Parseltongue during Legilimency, it would inevitably raise suspicions.

As time passed, Hogwarts approached its first Quidditch match. Another significant event at Hogwarts during this period was the release of the "Hogwarts Magazine." In addition to showcasing outstanding student papers mentioned by Ethan, the magazine featured intriguing school anecdotes.

Professor Flitwick held the magazine in high regard, securing contributions from various professors, all published for free. Eagerly, Ethan read through it.

Professor Flitwick shared his youthful adventures, Professor McGonagall provided a broomstick selection guide, Professor Sprout shared her herb-care experiences, and Professor Snape presented a lengthy paper on the application of Xenopus toads in potions.

Unexpectedly, Dumbledore contributed an article recounting his experiences tasting every candy on the market, complete with thoughtful star ratings. Notably, the cockroach pile and licorice candy received Dumbledore's special recommendation.

Towards the end, Ethan selected some jokes he found amusing. However, when Professor McGonagall reviewed the magazine, she insisted that certain particularly funny jokes be omitted, claiming it was for Ethan's good. According to her, these jokes would enrage the British Minister of Magic, Cornelius Fudge.

Professor McGonagall then "borrowed" Ethan's joke collection. In the following days, Gryffindor's young wizards noticed an unusual change—Professor McGonagall seemed unusually cheerful, and laughter frequently echoed from her office.

The "Hogwarts Magazine" swiftly gained popularity throughout Hogwarts upon its release, priced at 15 knuts. Now, it was a common sight to see young wizards clutching a copy, immersed in its contents.

For many little wizards, the magazine brought various conveniences. Outstanding students like Percy, Hermione, and Penelope received handsome fees for their contributions. Hufflepuff students, in particular, embraced Dumbledore's article on candy tasting, often placing orders at the Honey Dukes based on Dumbledore's ratings.

Gryffindor students, enamored by adventure, especially enjoyed Professor Flitwick's stories. Among Gryffindor lion cubs, debates arose about who was more powerful between Professor Ethan and Professor Flitwick.

Quidditch players were drawn to Professor McGonagall's broomstick selection guide, meticulously detailing the characteristics and pros and cons of various flying brooms on the market. Captain Wood considered this information crucial for potential victories.

Hermione, a devoted reader, found great pleasure in the magazine, often seen on the Gryffindor sofa engrossed in its pages. To the surprise of Ron and Harry, she was absorbed in Snape's paper on the use of Xenopus toads in potions. According to Hermione, despite Snape's irksome demeanor, his knowledge qualified him as a Hogwarts professor.

Ron, on the other hand, relished the jokes at the end of the magazine. Each laugh from Ron invited a disdainful glance from Hermione.

Even Neville found himself captivated by the magazine, particularly due to his proficiency in herbology. Often seen alone at a table, Neville delved into Professor Sprout's insights on herb care and experience.

If there was anyone who harbored disdain for the Hogwarts School Magazine, it was Lockhart. Initially disapproving of Ethan's publication, Lockhart regretted missing a significant opportunity to showcase his face upon witnessing the magazine's enthusiastic reception.