Early on Monday morning, Moriarty arrived at the Room of Requirement as usual. If everything went as planned, today he would finally obtain a fresh batch of brain-refreshing pills.
"Nymph, bring a cup here. This portion is yours," Moriarty said, pointing to the golden cauldron, which contained a large quantity of the potion.
"Oh, what a pleasant surprise!" Tonks exclaimed, her hair shifting to a playful bubblegum pink as she beamed with excitement. "Actually, I'm more interested in the ice magic you mentioned than the potion. When are you going to show me? You promised."
Moriarty was about to respond, but Tonks quickly pressed a finger against her lips, grinning mischievously, like a little bear sneaking honey. "I know what you're going to say, but I've already learned how to cast a Patronus Charm. Hehe."
With that, she pulled out her wand and confidently declared, "Expecto Patronum!"
A thick cloud of white mist erupted from her wand, rapidly solidifying into a glowing, white rabbit.
"Look how adorable she is! I call her Michelle," Tonks said proudly, hugging the Patronus close. She closed her eyes in delight. "I can feel her protecting me. I don't think any dark magic could harm me now."
"That's clearly just an illusion," Moriarty said flatly, smirking playfully. "From now on, don't touch me unless you want one of my snakes to lick your face."
Tonks' expression changed instantly, as if she had just swallowed a foul-tasting Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Bean.
She seemed momentarily disturbed by the thought but quickly regained her cheerful mood as she looked down at Michelle.
"With Michelle protecting me, I'm not afraid of your snakes anymore!"
Moriarty reached out and touched the Patronus. The Patronus Charm was considered one of the most powerful defensive spells, and he was curious to see how it would interact with his ice magic.
Since Tonks was eager to test herself against him, Moriarty agreed to a duel—but postponed it until the following day.
Once the Brain-Boosting Potion was ready, Moriarty carefully divided it into portions, reserving some for himself and Saint Mungo's.
Tonks grabbed her share and downed it in one go.
"There's a Potions class this morning. I'll put this to the test," she declared confidently.
As Moriarty tidied up his tools, he remarked, "Don't underestimate my potion. You'll probably brew a flawless potion, and Professor Snape might even give you extra points."
"Oh, Moriarty," Tonks groaned suddenly, clutching her stomach. "I think drinking this on an empty stomach was a mistake. It's not just waking up my brain—it's waking up my entire digestive system. Damn, I need to eat something."
Moriarty accompanied her to the Great Hall, but as soon as they entered, they noticed something strange—the entire student body was standing, their faces filled with shock. The professors, on the other hand, had serious expressions.
"What's going on?" Moriarty asked as he approached the Slytherin table.
Lilith quickly turned to him. "You're finally here! Guess what happened?"
Moriarty followed her gaze. Jericho was standing before Professor Snape, who was berating him furiously.
"Just now, Jericho publicly apologized to Keith in front of the entire school!" Lilith explained. "He admitted that Keith flew too high because he tampered with his broomstick. It's terrifying…"
Moriarty barely heard the rest of what she said.
He turned his attention to St. Peter, who was furiously shouting at Jericho.
"Shut up, Blanche! You reckless fool who only craves attention! How dare you? Do you think this is America? You've disgraced Slytherin! You should go back to your homeland!"
Despite the scolding, Jericho didn't look remorseful. Instead, he smiled and said, "You're absolutely right, Professor. That's why I'm standing here.
No matter what punishment the school decides, I will accept it without resentment. Because I know I can't afford to make any more mistakes."
Jericho then turned toward the Gryffindor table, locking eyes with Percy.
"I sincerely apologize. I took advantage of your conflict with Keith to tarnish your reputation."
Percy was momentarily stunned, unable to respond.
Jericho quickly turned back, as if he already knew he was about to be expelled and wanted to say his goodbyes.
When he spotted Moriarty, he bowed deeply.
"You saved my soul, Mr. Moriarty."
Professor Snape, unable to restrain himself any longer, stormed toward Dumbledore.
"Slytherin House will not tolerate such a student. He should be expelled!"
"Calm yourself, Severus." Dumbledore stood up, peering at Jericho sternly through his half-moon glasses. "Considering Mr. Blanche's reckless act, which could have seriously harmed Keith, fifty points will be deducted from Slytherin. Furthermore, he will serve detention."
At this, Dumbledore's stern expression softened slightly.
"But expulsion? I don't think that will be necessary."
Dumbledore smiled gently and studied Jericho.
"I'm pleased to see your apology and the sincerity in your smile. In the past, your smiles felt like a mask, but now, I see honesty and courage."
"Hogwarts welcomes every child who has lost their way back. That is one of the founding principles of this school."
Dumbledore cast a glance at Moriarty, who gave a nod of approval.
The headmaster then approached Jericho and spoke softly, "So, my boy, no one is expelling you. In fact, I shall award fifty-one points to Slytherin—for your courage, honesty, and triumph over a tainted soul. You've shown us what it means to be an honorable wizard."
Applause erupted. Moriarty was the first to clap, and the students quickly followed, acknowledging Jericho's sincere attempt at redemption.
However, the students soon realized something peculiar—Dumbledore had deducted fifty points from Slytherin, only to return fifty-one.
"Haha, that cunning old man!"
Even William and the other Slytherins seemed satisfied with Dumbledore's decision.
At that moment, Moriarty raised his hand and said firmly, "Professor, this all started because Jericho and I were practicing Quidditch. Though we made the team, we still broke the rules. I believe I should also be punished. I request detention alongside Jericho."
Before Snape could protest, Dumbledore intervened.
"Very well, Mr. Moriarty. I respect your decision."
The Great Hall buzzed with murmurs. Jericho's eyes turned red once again.
"I am deeply moved by your noble character, sir!" he declared.
Marcus, Moriarty's loyal friend, didn't hesitate to step forward.
"I wish to apologize too! I was the one who falsely accused Mr. Moriarty and even convinced Ralbo to steal his boots. I even tried to hit him with a Bludger!"
Gasps filled the hall.
Marcus, feeling the pressure of so many eyes on him, turned bright red.
"But Mr. Moriarty forgave me… I—I think… I mean, if he is going to be punished, then punish me first!"
At that moment, Ralbo stepped forward as well.
"Jericho's actions inspired me," he said softly. "I want to apologize too. Mr. Moriarty, I stole your boots. I accept any punishment."
The students murmured in disbelief. Why were the Slytherins suddenly confessing and apologizing one by one?
Professor Snape's expression was a mix of shock and fury.
"Enough! Fifty points deducted! Detention! If this happens again, you'll regret it!" he roared.
Moriarty, however, understood Snape's anger.
He detested bullying and would never tolerate it, whether from his students or against them.
Dumbledore, now beaming, announced, "Your detention will be with Hagrid in the Forbidden Forest. But don't worry—Mr. Moriarty will make sure it feels more like an adventure than a punishment."
Laughter filled the Great Hall.
And for the first time in a long while, the school felt united.