Chapter 92: The Frozen Classroom

"Winter is coming!"

Ino stood up, pointing his wand towards the sky.

As the incantation rang out, the entire classroom seemed to be torn apart by a mysterious force, and the previously agitated swarm of Billywig insects calmed down.

In just an instant, the room appeared to have undergone a temporal distortion. The previously bright surroundings dimmed.

The temperature around them dropped abruptly, making everyone feel as if they were in the cold of a winter evening.

The walls, floor, ceiling, even the desks and chairs, were visibly covered in a thick layer of frost.

Snow began to fall in the air, initially as small flakes but soon growing larger, transforming the classroom into a snowy wonderland.

Accompanying the snowfall was a howling wind, carrying icy snow that made the classroom's doors and windows rattle.

Faced with this sudden change, the young wizards huddled together, some trying to block the blizzard with their hands, while others stared wide-eyed, fascinated by the magical phenomenon.

The blizzard came as quickly as it went.

Seeing the Billywig insects falling like raindrops from the cold, Ino stopped the magic.

The problem had been solved, and continuing further would only cause unnecessary harm.

Although the magic had ceased, the snowflakes suspended in the air continued to swirl around him, guided by inertia, as if they were loyal guards.

The snowflakes danced, each carrying a crystalline glow under the influence of magic.

A black robe, white snowflakes.

Time seemed to stand still at this moment.

Unlike the deep contemplation of the Ravenclaws, the Slytherins in the classroom had a different sparkle in their eyes.

Especially Pansy, sitting at the back, whose eyes glimmered with an inexplicable mix of obsession and fervor.

...

"What are you waiting for? Quickly, invite our dear professor back!"

In the silent classroom, Ino was the first to break the peace.

His words seemed to carry a magical power, as a Ravenclaw girl sitting in the front row near the door stood up without hesitation and walked outside.

One minute later.

"Ha! You did better than I imagined. Do you know? I almost stepped in, but fortunately, you didn't disappoint me."

Even before he entered the classroom, the distinctive flamboyant voice of Lockhart reached everyone's ears.

"Oh wow..." Lockhart exclaimed in disbelief as he stepped through the door, seeing the classroom like an ice fortress.

"Magnificent! Indeed, I was wise to test you with 1X Billywig insects instead of the 2X Cornish Pixies, much safer!"

Never missing a chance to boast, Lockhart, after a round of self-praise, finally noticed the only person standing in the classroom.

"By the way, child, what's your name?"

"Ino! Ino Swinburne," Ino replied calmly.

"Excellent, truly excellent! Mr. Swinburne perfectly dealt with these pesky creatures under my tutelage, so Slytherin earns 10 points."

Lockhart's voice was filled with excitement, as if, after two weeks of failures, he finally proved his worth as a professor.

...

Though the classroom drama concluded like a farce, it left a deep impression on many young wizards.

After class, everyone gradually left the classroom.

"Ino, your magic was so cool just now. Was this the spell you used to freeze me last time?"

Despite having been hurt, Draco's tone carried a hint of pride and admiration.

Before Ino could respond, a gentle voice sounded from behind.

"Ino, I have some books on snow conjuring spells and freezing charms at home. I'll bring them for you next time."

Pansy quietly stood beside them, her tone like a gentle April breeze, softly brushing against one's face, warm and soothing.

"Books!" Ino suddenly remembered, then looked at Pansy apologetically, "Sorry! I forgot to return the book on sunlight charms!"

It was his fault; he had finished reading it before the summer holidays but had somehow forgotten to return it.

"It's alright! It doesn't matter. If the book were mine, I would have given it to you already," Pansy smiled, seemingly unconcerned.

"But it was my mistake. I'll find it when I get back. As for the snow conjuring and freezing spells, I'm very interested. Thank you."

Ino responded politely, genuinely curious about the two spells, and thought this was a good opportunity to learn, as expanding one's knowledge is always beneficial.

Speaking of spells, it's worth mentioning Hogwarts' relaxed educational approach. Throughout seven years, the young wizards only learn about 50 spells, maybe even fewer.

Many spells are repeated learning, such as summoning charms and repair spells, taught from the first year to the seventh year.

The original version of Miranda Goshawk's "Standard Book of Spells" was kept in the restricted section, considered too dangerous for young wizards due to the high harm potential of many spells.

On the other hand, after receiving a positive response, Pansy smiled and said, "I'll write to my family right away. I won't disturb your chat any longer."

Watching Pansy's retreating figure, Draco murmured:

"Have you noticed? She seems to have changed, all of a sudden."

"Changed?" Ino glanced at Pansy's back, puzzled. "Maybe the Billywig insects scared her. But I think it's a good thing."

"A good thing?" Draco's tone was full of doubt.

"Yes, a good thing." Ino nodded affirmatively, then continued:

"Like a rose shedding its thorns, becoming calm and composed. It's a kind of growth, a transformation from external toughness to inner resilience and strength."

"Although I don't quite understand, it sounds impressive," Draco shrugged indifferently, not caring much about the matter.

"Ino, with the 10 points today, you've earned 125 points in the first two weeks of the term. Looks like we'll win the House Cup again this year."

Seeing Draco's slightly proud expression, Ino smiled noncommittally.

Perhaps this is what school days are like.

Filled with countless memorable experiences, all part of its unique charm.

Young wizards strive for the House Cup, a seemingly insignificant reward, giving their all with unwavering effort.

It's like visiting an amusement park at twelve, feeling excited and eager to share, but at thirty-two, you'd just watch quietly, missing the initial thrill.

The young wizards, whether laughing or crying, happy or sad, never waste their school experiences.

"Draco, you're right! This year, no one will be able to take the House Cup from us, because the castle is safe!"

Ino spoke with conviction.

At that moment, he no longer viewed the House Cup with a mature mindset but chose to join the game.

After all, some things, once lost, are gone forever, leaving only memories.

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