30 Artel is a good boy

Artel surveyed the impressive assortment of magical materials in the storage room. To be honest, this collection rivaled the inventory of some of the stores in Knockturn Alley. Snape's reputation as a renowned potionist in the wizarding world was well-deserved, and he had managed to amass a trove of exquisite potion ingredients, some of which were considered extinct.

Artel didn't hold back; he included everything he could see into his system space. Once he was certain that nothing had been left behind, Artel meticulously used cleaning and whirlwind magic to erase any traces of his presence, including footprints and lingering scents. He recalled the tracking spells he had seen in Fantastic Beasts 2, which could reveal footprints or trace individuals through hair flakes. It was best to be on the side of caution.

This time, Artel had effectively emptied Snape's storage room. Over the years, the potion master had accumulated a vast collection, and although not everything was stored in this room, it certainly held the majority. Snape likely never imagined that someone would plunder most of his collection at Hogwarts, considered one of the safest places in the wizarding world.

"I'm sorry, Professor Snape," Artel whispered as he gently opened Snape's office and slipped away.

While he felt a twinge of embarrassment, he also recognized the necessity of acquiring a substantial amount of magical materials to create a formidable orc army. His previous travel into Knockturn Alley had yielded only a fraction of what he required. In the grand scheme of things, aiding Snape in vanquishing Voldemort so the professor wouldn't have to die seemed like a worthwhile cause.

Artel returned to the Slytherin common room and bided his time, waiting for the right moment to sneak back into his bedroom. Once there, he removed The Ring of Power, checked the time, and headed to the Great Hall for lunch.

In the afternoon, he heard from some older students that Professor Snape rarely attended classes. As the day wore on, rumors began to circulate throughout the castle. It was said that some had witnessed Snape in the corridors, crying and laughing alternately, muttering to himself, and occasionally erupting into hysterical fits of shouting. It was clear that something was seriously amiss.

Artel maintained a composed expression upon hearing the news, but he couldn't help but ponder the consequences of his actions. Had he pushed Snape too far? Perhaps the professor was struggling to come to terms with what had happened, and this turmoil was driving him to the brink of madness.

During the evening meal, Dumbledore made an announcement in the Great Hall. He explained that Snape was unwell and that a replacement professor would temporarily take over Potions. Professor Sprout, the herbalist teacher and head of Hufflepuff, would fill in for the time being. Sprout's expertise in herbology made her a suitable choice to oversee the Potions class.

Furthermore, Professor McGonagall made an additional announcement that stirred up quite a commotion among the students. It was revealed that third-year students and those above would be guided by the respective prefects of their houses to hold individual interviews with the deans of each college. Due to Professor Snape's sudden hospitalization, Slytherin found itself directly under the supervision of Dumbledore.

The senior students were left bewildered, as they had no inkling of what transpired and were now caught in a state of anxiety.

However, for Harry and Ron, this unexpected turn of events brought a sense of elation. Snape, the bane of their Potions lessons, was indisposed, which meant no more point deductions for their brewing mishaps.

Meanwhile, ArteI maintained an air of detachment, despite being the instigator of this situation.

The school authorities conducted multiple investigations but remained baffled regarding the theft of Snape's extensive collection. The Weasley twins initially bore the brunt of suspicion, yet even Professor McGonagall's scrutiny yielded no concrete evidence.

This left Professor McGonagall both relieved and perplexed.

As time passed, even the first and second-year wizards were drawn into the web of interrogation. ArteI, too, faced an audience with Dumbledore.

This was ArteI's first close encounter with Dumbledore himself.

While Dumbledore possessed the formidable skill of Legilimency, ArteI harbored no fear. Within the depths of his soul resided the Supreme Lord Ring, an artifact crafted by the demigod Sauron to dominate the world. With this ring, Dumbledore's attempts to read his true thoughts would prove futile.

In fact, the Supreme Lord Ring could even deceive the most astute minds, like that of Dumbledore himself.

For, if Dumbledore were to remain completely ignorant of ArteI's thoughts, it would undoubtedly arouse suspicion. Thus, the Lord of the Rings would allow some false thoughts to surface during their exchange.

Thoughts such as a genuine concern for classmates, a profound respect for teachers, a dedication to societal welfare, a commitment to world peace, and a passion for fairness and justice.

And indeed, this was the case. As ArteI conversed with Dumbledore, the latter's gaze remained unwavering, exuding an aura of wisdom.

Following their conversation, Dumbledore offered a kind smile and released ArteI.

Watching ArteI depart, Dumbledore couldn't help but nod in approval, muttering something akin to "a truly commendable young man."

Upon returning to the Great Hall, Hermione leaned in close to ArteI and inquired in a hushed tone, "What did Headmaster Dumbledore ask you? Where were you, and who were you with around ten o'clock today?"

ArteI nodded and replied, "Yes, that's what Professor McGonagall asked me too. It seems like something significant occurred at that time."

"Yes, but I was in the library with my roommate," Hermione answered, casting a discreet glance at Harry, who was seated across from them, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Harry mentioned something about what Hagrid had taken from Gringotts and how it went missing at Hogwarts," ArteI mused.

"Perhaps, but I have a feeling it might be connected to Professor Snape's illness," ArteI continued, his gaze drifting to the vacant spot at the professor's desk. He offered a silent prayer for Professor Snape, and Hermione nodded in agreement.

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