As the rumor mill continued to churn within the castle, Ivan and his friends discussed the situation outside of Hogwarts. Voldemort had not yet made his return public, and he remained in hiding, possibly due to fear or a lack of strength. This uncertainty was to their advantage, giving them time to prepare.
However, Fudge's refusal to accept the truth was a significant obstacle. Ivan agreed that Fudge was stubbornly clinging to his position and trying to maintain the status quo. Fudge believed that acknowledging Voldemort's return would cause widespread fear and panic, which could threaten his rule as Minister for Magic. Many others shared this view, making convincing them of the truth challenging.
Hagrid expressed frustration with Fudge's denial and how the Minister had disregarded the evidence before him. Ron shared his family's experiences with the Ministry's unfair treatment, highlighting Fudge's policies and prejudices.
Harry pointed out the absurdity of Fudge summoning dementors into Hogwarts from Azkaban, especially when Barty Crouch Jr. was disguised as Professor Moody. The Ministry's rapid response and efficiency in using portkeys to transport dementors raised questions about its involvement.
Ivan acknowledged that Fudge was fully aware of Voldemort's return but ignored it. Fudge's primary concern was maintaining his position and avoiding war or conflict. This attitude frustrated Ivan, but he knew that their focus should be on accepting the reality of Voldemort's return and preparing to confront it.
Hagrid agreed and emphasized the importance of acknowledging the truth. He believed they should prepare to fight against Voldemort to prevent him from gaining power and dominating the wizarding world. Despite Hagrid's clumsy demeanor, he displayed wisdom and determination regarding important matters.
The conversation then shifted to Dumbledore's recent actions, specifically his meeting with Hagrid and Madam Maxime. Ivan was curious about Madam Maxime and asked who she was.
Hagrid clarified that Madam Maxime was Olympe Maxime, the headmistress of Beauxbatons Academy of Magic. Dumbledore summoned Hagrid and Madam Maxime to his office to discuss a particular task. Hagrid explained that Dumbledore wanted them to contact the giants and deliver a message. He emphasized the need for secrecy and discretion.
When Ivan asked about the giants' location, Hagrid revealed they were near Sicily, an island in the Mediterranean Sea. This was the birthplace of the giants and their last known sanctuary. Hagrid was determined to convince Madam Maxime to join him on this mission and to seek out the giants in hiding.
Ivan was intrigued by the idea that giants lived near such a populated and famous area as Sicily. He had read about Sirens in the library and their connection to the region. Sirens were known for their beautiful upper bodies resembling human women. Still, they had multiple dog-like heads with long necks and sharp teeth on their waists. In the past, Sirens had lured and devoured sailors with their singing, but regulations had reduced such incidents.
Hagrid also mentioned Charybdis, a great whirlpool associated with the region in fairy tales, which had a real-life counterpart that occasionally appeared and threatened passing ships.
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Muggles often mistake it for a natural phenomenon, but, in reality, it is far from that – the great whirlpool is a magical formation.
Hidden within the bog, much like the Megalithic Temple, lies a relic left behind by ancient masters. In the deepest part of the vortex, the speculation from wizards reveals a situation within the relic that is beyond imagination – a danger that surpasses anything one could fathom.
Naturally, the concrete appearance of the vortex's interior remains a mystery to all. Anyone who ventures inside doesn't return, not even their lifeless bodies. Except for giants, Sirens, and the ancient relic, the sea area between Sicily, Sardinia, and Corsica remains a focal point of intrigue. It's believed to be the submerged site of the legendary city of Atlantis. The disappearance of this ancient city has been one of history's most enigmatic and hotly debated mysteries.
Currently, Evan sits on a hospital bed, uncertain about his fate. Soon, he must journey to that sunken city's depths, where he will encounter a challenge beyond his wildest imagination.
Harry and Ron continue conversing politely with Hagrid, eager to learn more news. Hagrid, initially reticent, eventually succumbs to their curiosity and searches for an excuse to bid farewell.
He informs them that he and Madam Maxime had enjoyed afternoon tea. The recent developments, particularly Voldemort's resurrection, make this a necessary ruse.
In about a week, Evan, Harry, and Ron will be discharged from the hospital and return to Gryffindor Tower. Many events have transpired during their hospital stay.
Firstly, Cedric has returned, but he has not made an appearance at Hogwarts. Instead, his parents have come to facilitate his departure from the school. The speculation has become a reality – Cedric has transformed into a vampire.
Mr. and Mrs. Diggory spent considerable time in Dumbledore's office and are said to be arranging for Cedric to move to the United States. His condition prevents him from facing the Ministry of Magic and the public eye, necessitating a fresh start in a place where his condition is not widely known.
Cedric has relatives in a small US town named Fawkes, who are willing to accept him and allow him to start anew. Their willingness stems from their status as Muggles, as they are unaware of the intricacies of the magical world. In his past life, Cedric would have been sent to a Muggle high school in Fawkes, an age-appropriate arrangement.
They hope he can gradually adjust to his new reality. The magical community in the United States differs from Europe, with a greater tolerance for dark creatures such as vampires and werewolves.
As for Kreshkov, there is less news about him now. Based on Cedric's disclosures, he and his clan are likely returning to Northern Europe to deal with a matter. Despite various unhappy incidents, they have not severed ties with Voldemort. Kreshkov is likely still anticipating Voldemort's resurgence to assist in resolving their troubles. Vampires hold a special utility for Voldemort, creating an uneasy but stable atmosphere between the two sides.
Given these circumstances, Kreshkov cannot initiate contact with Evan.
Two days after Cedric's return, Evan and his friends enter the assembly hall to find an unusual atmosphere. Ordinary decorations are missing from the walls, and the room is filled with solemnity. Mad-Eye Moody is seated beside Dumbledore, but he appears restless and easily startled due to his ten-month confinement in his box. Evan sympathizes with his anxiety.
Karkaroff's seat remains empty, and no one knows his whereabouts or whether Voldemort still holds him. Among the Durmstrang students, there is an eerie lack of emotion, as if they are indifferent to the fate of their school's headmaster.
Evan notices Malfoy whispering with a tall Durmstrang student, raising suspicions that Malfoy may have learned of Voldemort's return and is considering joining the Death Eaters. His proximity to the Durmstrang student is worrisome.
Madam Maxime and Hagrid sit together, deep in conversation. Professor McGonagall and Snape occupy seats at the teacher's table. Snape's inscrutable expression suggests that he remains a complex figure, living among Death Eaters while working as Dumbledore's secret agent.
The hall is filled with hushed conversations, with many directed at Evan and Harry. However, most people quickly avert their gazes when met with their eyes. Dumbledore has prohibited others from inquiring about Evan and Harry, creating an atmosphere of mounting tension in the school.
People yearn for answers but cannot endure the ongoing suspense. The recent visit of Mr. and Mrs. Diggory, without their son, suggests Cedric's demise deeply saddens many, especially those from Hufflepuff House, where Cedric was well-liked.
When Professor Dumbledore rises from the teacher's table, the hall falls completely silent. "You must be aware of recent events," Dumbledore begins, "and I have much to share with you." He proceeds to address the matter of Cedric Diggory, whose parents have just completed the necessary procedures for his temporary leave.