Chapter 21: The Broken Kettle Bar

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At this point, Sprout’s voice suddenly stopped. She gave an embarrassed smile, then started again, “In short, your situation is quite special, and since you have Eastern heritage, it should have been Headmaster Dumbledore himself who came to talk with you. But at the moment, the headmaster is tied up with other matters, so...”

Chuyang showed a charming smile. “Pleased to meet you, Professor Sprout!”

Sprout was quite pleased with Chuyang’s attitude, smiling warmly as she praised, “Ha, such a clever little darling.”

“No wonder you packed your things early waiting for me; it seems you had already guessed how we would resolve your predicament, right?”

Chuyang pondered, “Maybe sponsor part of my tuition in advance so I can come to school and study, then have me do some auxiliary work—half work, half study, is that right?”

“Half work, half study?” Sprout looked at Chuyang in surprise, nodding repeatedly, “That phrase fits perfectly. We do intend for you to help out with some tasks at school. Getting something for nothing is not a value Hogwarts promotes.”

Apparently worried Chuyang might feel pressured, Sprout explained further, “The school won’t assign you tasks beyond your ability. At most, you might help me tend the herbology gardens, or once you’re familiar with potions, assist Professor Snape with his potions classes...”

When she mentioned assisting Snape, Chuyang felt reluctant, but still steeled himself and said, “Professor Sprout, I will complete these tasks diligently.”

“Of course,” Sprout said heartily.

Then she bent down and patted Chuyang on the head. “Wait here a moment. I need to explain the situation clearly to your housemistress, so there won’t be any unnecessary misunderstandings.”

With that, Sprout headed straight toward the orphanage.

Pulling out her wand, she waved it gently toward the side door. “Alohomora!”

The unlocking charm!

With a click, the side door slowly opened. Sprout lifted her head proudly and strode inside like a majestic swan, under Chuyang’s admiring gaze.

Chuyang smacked his lips and said, “The reason I snuck out secretly is because Housemistress Anna isn’t very easy to deal with. Old nuns from the non-magical world can be incredibly stubborn. I hope Professor Sprout won’t be mistaken for some kind of oddity...”

Not long after, Professor Sprout emerged looking rather disheveled. Both hands were raised to protect her well-worn, patched pointed hat.

“Do nuns in the Muggle world always sleep hugging their brooms?” Sprout complained. “Before I could even cast a spell, her broom swept me right out the door.”

Chuyang apologized shyly, “Sorry, Professor, I should have warned you. Housemistress Anna is quite wary to protect the children in the orphanage.”

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Sprout sighed. “I understand. I protect my students with the same feelings. Although the process was a bit bumpy, I managed to explain everything clearly to her. You can rest assured and come with me to Hogwarts.”

Chuyang pretended to be a naïve child, asking excitedly, “Are we going now?”

Sprout gently pressed down with both hands, signaling him not to get too excited. “It’s already late. We’ll stay at the Leaky Cauldron for the night, then tomorrow we’ll go to Diagon Alley to get all the things you need for enrollment.”

Chuyang blinked, asking, “The things listed on the acceptance letter?”

“Close your eyes. It might feel a little uncomfortable.” Sprout nodded and took Chuyang’s hand, ready to cast Apparition!

In an instant, Chuyang felt a surge of magical energy, a powerful pressure squeezing his body.

Then he felt as if he had been packed into a tin can, being shaken from all directions.

Fortunately, Chuyang’s body was exceptionally resilient and his mental strength beyond ordinary. When they arrived, he showed no sign of discomfort.

“Few people remain so calm after their first Apparition. You have outstanding talent and psychological endurance, Mr. Chuyang.”

Sprout praised generously, impressed despite their short acquaintance.

Maturity and reason beyond one’s years are essential qualities for a great wizard.

“Where is this?” Chuyang looked around.

He found himself on a quiet street. Since it was late, there were hardly any passersby.

“Charing Cross Road! Right across is the Leaky Cauldron I mentioned.” Sprout pointed to an old-fashioned storefront on the opposite side, its dusty wooden door completely out of place among the surroundings.

Occasionally, someone would pass by without noticing the sign, as if it were invisible.

“This place is enchanted. Muggles—ordinary people—can’t see the Leaky Cauldron. Hogwarts is the same.” Sprout explained as she led Chuyang inside.

The bar’s interior was dimly lit.

Much like outside, only a few steadfast candles provided light.

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An elderly man stood behind the bar, nodding in greeting to Sprout.

“Hello, Professor Sprout.”

“Hello, Mr. Tom.” Sprout walked with Chuyang to the bar.

Chuyang’s eyes lingered on the moving newspapers, the floating spoons, and the rag that cleaned by itself in front of Mr. Tom.

Though prepared mentally, seeing the magic firsthand still filled Chuyang with wonder at the magical world’s marvels.

“Ha ha, a new young wizard, huh?” Old Tom smiled knowingly at Chuyang’s curious expression.

“Yes, Mr. Tom.” Chuyang smiled politely in return.

Old Tom advised, “It’s the start of term, and the Leaky Cauldron houses many freshmen like you. If you meet others in the hall, make friends early. You know, wherever you go, it’s never bad to have more friends.”

Chuyang replied gratefully, “Thank you for the advice, Mr. Tom.”

“Well, Mr. Tom, that’s enough chatting. I need to take this child upstairs to rest. There’s a lot waiting for him tomorrow!” Sprout took two keys from Old Tom and led Chuyang upstairs.

Late at night, Chuyang fell asleep deeply, his heart fluttering with excitement and curiosity about the magical world.

Early next morning, a loud knock startled Chuyang awake.

“Chuyang, it’s time to go. Get up quickly.” Sprout’s voice outside was as loud as a bell, louder even than an alarm clock.

“All right, Professor Sprout, I’m getting up right now!” Chuyang quickly dressed. Just as he was about to brush his teeth, he suddenly realized he had forgotten to bring toothpaste and a toothbrush.

“Why do I always forget my toiletries whenever I travel? Old habits from my past life die hard, huh?” Chuyang muttered to his reflection, then finished packing and opened the door to meet Professor Sprout.