Bab 227: Chapter 226 "Crouch Interrogation"
Maintaining a cynical expression with a slightly downturned mouth, Skyler chose not to respond to Dumbledore's question. Instead, he gracefully withdrew his wand, casting a phantom curse that transformed a simple carved piece of jewelry in front of him into an elaborate masterpiece.
A grand redwood chair adorned with various gems materialized, its cushion intricately woven from unicorn fur radiating a brilliant silver sheen. A honey badger was meticulously carved on the left-hand rail, while the right-hand rail depicted a god eagle, both creatures appearing somber with their heads bowed.
Unicorn horns arranged one after another atop the chair's back, reaching a count of ninety-nine, with vibrant fluorescent hues swirling around the elongated corners. A green snake, intricately carved to lifelike perfection, slithered between the long corners.
The snake's black-red eyes gleamed with an intensity resembling a real serpent fixated on its prey. Remarkably, the striking resemblance of the snake to Slytherin's emblem in the Hogwarts school badge exceeded 90%.
The four slender chairs stood elegantly, their bases crafted from dark gray stone, imparting a simplistic and robust appearance.
A glance from anyone familiar with British history reveals the resemblance to the legendary Stone of Destiny in Scottish lore—a relic tied to the fate-determined monarchs of the Middle Ages.
The chair's wooden lines, bathed in a dark golden aura, exuded an awe-inspiring sense of oppression, reminiscent of a sovereign ruling over the realm.
With a satisfied laugh, Skyler admired his transformative creation. Donning his robe, he then gracefully settled onto the extraordinary chair, assuming a perfect and impeccable posture.
As he reclined, an imperceptible magical ripple emanated from the chair, spreading out in all directions. The napping Phoenix Fawkes on the gold-plated wooden shelf awoke with a mournful tweet while the silver instruments on the nearby dwarf tables produced a symphony of Ding Ding Dang.
One instrument, resembling a pipe, emitted light green smoke into the air.
Skyler nonchalantly disregarded the ongoing discussion, his left hand gently resting on the honey badger carving. He then leisurely leaned to the right, his right elbow casually placed on the armrest.
Supporting the weight of his upper body, he held his chin with his wrist, and the snake-shaped ring adorning Dumbledore's right finger emitted a soft green light.
The intricate design on the ring pulsated with subtle and enigmatic magical fluctuations, akin to a fierce beast silently struggling and poised for attack.
Skyler, being strategic, opted not to stand and respond to Dumbledore's inquiries.
Instead, he mirrored the Headmaster's seated position, emphasizing that if Dumbledore chose to converse in this manner, Skyler would reciprocate, ensuring his chair surpassed the Headmaster's in coolness.
Observing the snake-shaped sculpture representing Slytherin, Dumbledore seemed momentarily lost in thought.
Wise individuals find no need for unnecessary words. Skyler's strategic move not only showcased his strength but also signified the allegiance of the entire Slytherin House. Although an individual, he embodied the collective will of an entire Hogwarts House. The symbolism of the two handrails made it abundantly clear that they were under his control.
Let's not forget the Headmaster's authority is not absolute.
In the original world, Dumbledore's immense power made him an almost untouchable figure, revered for his reputation and his pervasive control over Hogwarts, including the school's operational layer—its professors.
The board of directors, overshadowed and rendered inconspicuous, became a mere shadow institution within Hogwarts. Students were oblivious to the existence of the school board, an entity capable of checking and balancing the Headmaster's power.
The original books, narrated from the perspective of Harry, a young wizard entering the magical world, only briefly touched upon the school board in scattered descriptions.
These depictions often centered around failures and scandals, such as the expulsion of Lucius Malfoy from the school board or his unsuccessful attempt to harm Buckbeak.
Although Lucius still faced expulsion from the school board in this altered world, a teacher hiring committee was established. Skyler, coincidentally, found himself a member of this committee.
As Skyler's reputation grew, Dumbledore's authority faced challenges and began to be questioned to some extent.
Skyler's potential and unwavering determination cast an undeniable shadow over the seemingly impervious authority of the school board. It's a well-known fact that those who secure positions on the school board amid fierce competition are far from simple individuals.
With Dumbledore surpassing a century in age, the looming question of succession after his eventual departure lingers. Skyler, recognizing this, strategically asserted his influence at Slytherin College, delivering an implicit threat within his proclamation.
Another consideration that Dumbledore refrained from articulating aloud—perhaps due to his reluctance to entertain such possibilities—was the presence of honey badgers, hawks, and green snakes.
However, the question remained: what about vultures? Only one role remained unoccupied with the back of the chair and the handrails already claimed.
The blinking eyes behind Dumbledore's half-moon glasses reflected contemplation, and a sigh escaped him after a prolonged pause.
Despite his attempts to accurately assess Skyler's potential, Dumbledore questioned whether he had underestimated the young wizard. He couldn't help but ponder if age had dulled his judgment.
The final encounter with Skyler lingered in Dumbledore's thoughts. During that meeting, Skyler's demeanor, be it in his gaze, tone, or overall attitude, might not have been imposing, but the underlying intentions were unmistakably potent.
Like a long-lost fierce beast, Skyler now displayed a complete lack of restraint, baring his fangs openly in Dumbledore's presence.
Dumbledore, astutely aware of Skyler's calculated nature, recognized that this wasn't the behavior of an impulsive student. Skyler's bold actions suggested a deep-rooted confidence in his own abilities.
"Skyler, my concern is solely for the safety of you and the other students," Dumbledore's tone, notably softer than before, conveyed a genuine worry.
Skyler, however, didn't dismiss Dumbledore's softened approach. He understood that Dumbledore's skill in swaying hearts with words rivaled that of Greenworth.
The Order of Phoenix, a group lacking financial resources and basic amenities, stood as evidence of Dumbledore's ability to inspire individuals willing to sacrifice for a lofty ideal.
"On this matter, we can discuss openly," Skyler responded with an unyielding expression, addressing the issue seriously. "I can confirm that the culprit is Mr. Crouch. As for the assailant, they are likely acting under the orders of a mysterious figure, possibly connected to the shadow of the dragon."
Dumbledore rested his hands on the table, intertwining his fingers, and regarded Skyler with intrigue. "Why?" he inquired.
"The assailant used a Life-Ending Curse, displaying a ruthless and direct approach, indicating a Death Eater's style," Skyler explained. "In response, I countered with a Ventus, causing him to emanate a black mist similar to what was observed on Dwarf Star. Realizing the unfavorable situation and unable to await your assistance as the Headmaster, I chose to retreat."
"As for Mr. Crouch, he is unharmed. I secured him in the suitcase left by Skamand and took him away."
"Skyler," Dumbledore continued, "may I request that you release Mr. Crouch? I have some questions for him."
Skyler hesitated intentionally, leaving the statement unfinished.
"You can rest assured. I understand the significance of this interpersonal connection, and I assure you that I'll make it clear to him that you single-handedly rescued him, ensuring you receive due credit," Dumbledore affirmed with determination.
Skyler feigned a thoughtful demeanor.
"Well," Skyler spoke after a thoughtful pause, indicating that he had carefully pondered the decision. He shrugged and said, "I guess I owe you some gratitude for the book 'Abatael,' right?"
Skyler extracted Mr. Crouch, who was still in a deep sleep, from the suitcase space, placed him on the ground, and swiftly cast a wand movement over his head to lift the sleeping spell. He whispered, "Harry probably informed you that Mr. Crouch exhibited sudden madness upon arrival. Concerned about the potential harm to himself and others, I put him to sleep."
Dumbledore nodded in understanding.
As Crouch awakened, he rubbed his disoriented eyes and questioned, "Dumbledore? Malfoy? Where am I? Why am I here?"
Dumbledore's blue eyes shone as he closely examined Crouch's gaze. "Barty, don't you remember anything?"
Crouch appeared perplexed. "Remember what? I recall being busy with work today. The international ban on private self-determination made little progress. I delegated the task to young Wetherby; he's quite enthusiastic, a bit too zealous, to be honest. I returned home, didn't even have dinner, just fell asleep on the sofa. Then... woke up here."
"Now..." Crouch spoke with a somber tone, "You should tell me what happened."
Dumbledore concisely recounted the events of how Skyler and Harry discovered him in the Forbidden Forest, how he was attacked, and ultimately rescued by Skyler.
Crouch widened his eyes, finding it hard to believe that he had experienced so much in a single night. If it weren't for Dumbledore narrating the events, he might dismiss it as pure fiction.
However, he recognized that Dumbledore and the young Malfoy had no reason or motivation to deceive him with such a story.
Desiring to return home, Crouch contested, but Dumbledore insisted he spend a night at the school hospital.
He suggested that Madam Pomfrey observe him to ensure there were no lingering effects before allowing him to leave. Weakened and unable to argue further, Crouch reluctantly agreed to stay at Hogwarts for the night.
A few hours later, precisely at midnight, Crouch, who had been sleeping with his eyes closed, abruptly opened them. He sat up from the lying position and found himself alone in the ward. The distant sounds of Madam Pomfrey's busy activities echoed outside.
Running his hand across his forehead and face, Crouch discovered a considerable amount of cold sweat, leaving his face damp.
PERTIMBANGAN PENCIPTA 
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