Snape's face appeared suspicious, yet tinged with shock. As a Legilimency master, he naturally discerned that Artel was not lying. He glanced at Pancy and recalled her earlier words, a new understanding dawning.
Meanwhile, Professor McGonagall wore a decidedly displeased expression.
She had always harbored concerns about Artel's behavior, especially since he had been sorted into Slytherin just yesterday. Those concerns had kept her awake throughout the night and had now come to fruition on this very morning.
On his very first day at Hogwarts, Artel had cast a curse on his classmates.
Although the spell wasn't overtly aggressive, it was still a concerning incident.
"Miss Granger, I believe it's time for you to recount what occurred," McGonagall urged Hermione with a stern countenance.
It was evident to her that Hermione had played a role in this conflict. After all, a Gryffindor had intruded into Slytherin territory to partake in their meal. Any repercussions from this were expected.
Hermione felt a twinge of nervousness as she glanced at Artel and truthfully recounted the events that had transpired.
Hermione wasn't entirely sure what "Mudblood" meant, but she could deduce from Snape's reaction that it was not a favorable term. Thus, she deliberately repeated what Pansy had uttered.
Predictably, the expressions of the professors shifted noticeably.
"Nevertheless, pointing your wand at a fellow classmate is not an appropriate response, Artel. I believe you could have made a more judicious choice," Professor McGonagall said, her voice grave.
"No one should insult the Shelby family, Professor McGonagall," Artel declared, locking eyes with her.
"Though I hail from the Muggle world, my family's honor is paramount. She should be grateful that this is within the confines of the school. In the Muggle world, insulting the Shelby family in their presence would lead to dire consequences."
Artel turned to Pansy, his expression unyielding.
"Otherwise, they'd find themselves in a very precarious situation."
Artel's tone remained unwavering, devoid of any emotional fluctuations, as though he was simply stating a fact.
For eleven years, Artel had lived in this world, unaware of its Harry Potter origins. During this time, he had lived as the heir to the Shelby family—a notorious gang that had established dominance in Birmingham's criminal underground.
From an early age, Artel had interacted with gang members, including thugs, gunmen, and killers. Therefore, his words came naturally, backed by certainty.
The onlookers didn't perceive Artel's words as jest; instead, they instinctively accepted them.
The young wizards nearby took deep breaths, while Malfoy and his cohorts shivered even more, reflecting on the previous night's events and feeling a profound sense of relief.
Pansy's face drained of color as she took two steps back, disoriented.
Dumbledore squinted his eyes, his own headache intensifying.
He was well aware of the Shelby family's activities. Hogwarts had admitted a young wizard from Slytherin, and what weighed on him was Artel's extraordinary talent, which posed a considerable challenge.
"Furthermore," Artel continued, turning his gaze to Dumbledore, "Hermione is well within her rights to dine here. This is Hogwarts, and she is a student here. She deserves her place at this table. The four houses should foster a spirit of friendship and cooperation in competition, not animosity, with clear boundaries."
"Well said, Artel."
Dumbledore looked at him with a smile and heaved a sigh of relief.
To be able to say such things, perhaps this Artel is not a bad boy.
It's just that the education he received from an early age is a little different from others, but these are not problems. He believes that Artel can go on the right path in the future study and life at Hogwarts.
"You're right. Of course, Hermione can eat here. Hogwarts is the home of each of you young wizards. You are all like family and friends."
"But the way you treated Miss Parkinson was a bit too aggressive. Granted, Miss Parkinson is reserved."
"I think you should all acknowledge your own mistakes, and if you can forgive each other, then this matter will be resolved, what do you think?"
Dumbledore wore a kindly smile, eager to see how Artel would respond.
"I believe she has been appropriately reprimanded, and she should refrain from making such comments about others in the future. Naturally, I am willing to apologize for my impetuous behavior. After all, she is a young lady, and a gentleman should not be discourteous to young ladies."
Artel glanced at Pansy with a hint of indifference in his eyes.
Pansy felt a bit intimidated; she didn't sense any sincerity in Artel's apology. Nonetheless, she forced a smile and cautiously replied, "I... I forgive you as well... I was mistaken earlier, and I... I apologize to you... Apologize to Miss Granger..."
Pansy seemed on the verge of tears, but Artel remained unmoved by this foolish woman.
"Very well! Then this matter is settled, but be warned, if such an incident repeats, there will be consequences!"
After Dumbledore finished speaking, he turned and departed.
Severus Snape remained silent, casting a profound gaze at his young serpent before departing as well.
Conversely, Professor McGonagall hesitated. She reached out and ruffled Artel's hair, saying, "If you wish, you can join Gryffindor for dinner in the future. I believe they would be eager to befriend you."
Professor McGonagall sensed that the atmosphere in Slytherin was somewhat chilly. If Artel could experience the warmth of the young lions, it might benefit him.
"Thank you, Professor McGonagall."
"Alright, let's eat quickly; there's a class coming up."
Professor McGonagall smiled and returned to her meal. When the other young wizards saw this, they went back to their seats, but still whispered and occasionally glanced their way.
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