Chapter 160 "Dumbledore's Request"

"Alright, lower your wands!" Wentworth's sudden command echoed, directed at Carlo and the rest.

Upon hearing Wentworth's order, Rosier, Abernathy, and the others hesitated briefly but complied, reluctantly lowering their wands as per Wentworth's request.

Carlo couldn't help but voice his discontent, exclaiming, "Young Lord, it's Alhus Dumbledore! The one responsible for our downfall!" It was only when he noticed Wentworth's frown and displeased expression that Carlo begrudgingly sheathed his wand.

In reality, everyone present understood that Dumbledore couldn't be restrained by a handful of wizards from the Alliance.

In the previous semester, faced with a dozen elite wizard hunters alongside the inexperienced Wentworth, Dumbledore emerged from the battle unscathed.

After observing everyone stow their wands, Wentworth showed a smile before opening the door and addressed Dumbledore, "I apologize, Headmaster Dumbledore. They serve as the guardians of our house, ensuring my safety. Please, come in!"

Aware that Dumbledore likely knew his identity, Wentworth opted to keep certain matters private until both parties agreed otherwise.

Welcoming Dumbledore and Hagrid into the room, Wentworth gestured for Rosier and the others to depart.

Though hesitant, Rosier and his companions received a reassuring glance from Wentworth before discreetly disappearing into the streets.

Returning to the room, Wentworth hurriedly prepared tea for Dumbledore and Hagrid.

It was then that Dumbledore mentioned, "Wentworth, we've actually been here for a while. We came to knock on the door when we saw the lights in your room come on!"

Seated in front of Dumbledore, Wentworth responded with a smile, "Professor Dumbledore, I just got up for a glass of water. If you hadn't knocked, I might have gone back to sleep!"

Despite Wentworth's attempt to downplay the situation, he sensed that Dumbledore had a request, likely something he wouldn't find particularly enjoyable just like how he tricked him into going to the "summer camp".

"Professor, you are not going to send me into another one of those summer camps of yours this time around, right?" Wentworth inquired with an awkward smile.

Dumbledore took a sip of the tea that Wentworth just served them before replying, "What makes you think so? I might come here just to check on one of my favorite students. Don't be so sceptical, Wentworth!" Dumbledore assured with a smile.

Confirming this suspicion, Dumbledore proceeded without acknowledging Wentworth's jest, saying, "I have something I want you to do with Hagrid."

A perplexed expression clouded Wentworth's face. Before he could articulate his confusion, Dumbledore clarified, "I hope you and Hagrid can go welcome a new Hogwarts student together."

The revelation sent a jolt through Wentworth. There are lots of questions inside his mind right now, but knowing how Dumbledore probably won't give him any time to question anything, he just stays silent for now while occasionally smiling.

As Wentworth processed the information, Dumbledore continued, "This student's family has unique circumstances. Orphaned at an early age, he has been living with Muggle relatives who aren't particularly favorable towards us. Despite our attempts to notify them of his acceptance to Hogwarts, they've consistently rejected the notices. I'm entrusting you and Hagrid to personally inform him about his admission to Hogwarts."

Upon hearing Dumbledore's words, Wentworth felt a sense of disbelief.

The new student Dumbledore mentioned had to be the renowned Harry Potter!

Despite this realization, Wentworth harbored no desire to get involved with Harry Potter, given his already plentiful challenges.

Eager to avoid further complications, Wentworth swiftly responded, "Professor Dumbledore, I only returned home last night. Hogwarts begins tomorrow. I'm physically and mentally exhausted. I'm just a twelve-year-old child! I believe I need a good rest."

Dumbledore, unperturbed, gazed into Wentworth's eyes with a calm demeanor, prompting Wentworth to reinforce his Occlumency skills.

After a brief moment, Dumbledore inquired, "Wentworth, you already know who I'm talking about, don't you?"

Acknowledging the futility of concealing the truth, Wentworth smiled wryly and admitted, "Certainly, it must be the Boy Who Lived, Harry Potter. It couldn't possibly be Neville Longbottom, could it?"

Dumbledore chuckled, a smile playing at the corners of his eyes. "Very well, it appears you have some knowledge about him; that's right! Your task is to accompany Hagrid in fetching Harry Potter, assist him in purchasing supplies for the new semester, and then see him off on the Hogwarts Express." He explained while looking at Wentworth with a wide grin.

Unconvinced by Dumbledore's unilateral arrangements, Wentworth swiftly retorted, "Hey, Professor, I haven't agreed to anything yet, have I? Let's not jump to conclusions!"

Dumbledore paused momentarily, then shifted his gaze towards Wentworth's jacket pocket and spoke contemplatively, "Newt wrote to me, stating that you've 'borrowed' a creature from him and asked for my assistance in locating it. Wentworth, you don't intend to bring this creature to Hogwarts, do you? If I'm not mistaken, the Bowtruckle isn't on the list of approved magical creatures students can keep at Hogwarts!"

Quick to respond, Wentworth wore a seemingly righteous smile and declared, "Professor Dumbledore, as a senior at Hogwarts, it's my duty to care for and assist junior students facing challenges. I, Wentworth, am merely doing my part! Please entrust me with this task!"

Upon hearing Wentworth's explanation, Dumbledore rose with satisfaction, giving Wentworth's shoulder a reassuring pat. "I knew you would agree. You've proven to be an outstanding student at Hogwarts, and I have every confidence you won't disappoint. I'll depart now, and you can follow Hagrid's guidance for the remaining details!"

As Dumbledore concluded his words, he turned and exited the room.

However, midway through, he glanced back at Wentworth and remarked, "Your tea is a bit bland—reminds me of the tea I used to have in the East. I'm more inclined towards sweet tea!"

With that critique about Wentworth's tea, Dumbledore disappeared into thin air as he walked into the street. Apparating away into a place where he needs to meet an old friend...

After Dumbledore's departure, Wentworth lowered his gaze, exchanging a helpless look with Hagrid. He inquired, "Hagrid, what's our plan now?"

Hagrid expresses his regret by apologizing, "I'm sorry, Wentworth. Can I borrow your oven? Tomorrow is Harry's birthday, and I wanted to bake a cake for him. Unfortunately, I was in a rush this morning and didn't have time to prepare. Once it's done, we can celebrate with Harry!"

Upon hearing Hagrid's request, Wentworth recalled the vivid descriptions of Hagrid's culinary adventures in the original book.

Hastily comforting Hagrid, Wentworth sat down and insisted, "You're a guest in my house; guests shouldn't be burdened with such tasks."

Wentworth then stepped outside, summoning Rosier and Abernathy. He instructed, "Grandpa Abernathy, could you please get me a birthday cake? The finest available! Alternatively, have the House-elf prepare one!"

Rosier and Abernathy looked stared at each other in confusion before nodding and finally apparating away, "Yes, my Lord!" Abernathy replied.

As Abernathy left to fulfill the request, Wentworth turned to Hagrid and stated, "Hold on, Hagrid; we'll be picking up Harry Potter shortly!"

Hagrid, who was ready to bake a cake, could only contain his excitement and save it for another day to show his skill off to both Wentworth and Harry.