Dumbledore discreetly shifted a step, placing himself in front of Professor Randy. His gaze at Moriarty brimmed with anticipation. "Moriarty, do you have a way to break the curse?"
Old Dumbledore wanted Moriarty to reveal the method in public, but how could Moriarty possibly grant his wish? He gave a slight shrug. "I do. But breaking the curse is complicated and will take quite a bit of time."
Dumbledore and Professor Randy exchanged a glance but ultimately said nothing. A few minutes later, Marcus approached from behind and said quietly, "Young master, it's twelve o'clock."
Moriarty forcefully pressed the Slytherin staff into the ground until only its tip remained exposed. As Water Elemental Magic flowed into it, the grass became damp and soggy.
"Heir of Slytherin, descendant of the lion of Godric's Hollow, young eagle who has received ancient wisdom, rose of Hufflepuff, I request an audience with the Four Founders!"
Moriarty suddenly spoke in Serpent Tongue, his voice thunderous as hissing echoed across the skies above Hogwarts.
Upon hearing Serpent Tongue, the stone pedestals, armor, and murals came alive as though they had received orders. The stone pedestals moved out to guard the Castle's perimeter; the armor swiftly took up positions in every corridor and key passage; the portraits in the murals became gleamingly bright, their eyes widening as they scanned every corner of the Castle—even the portraits of past headmasters were no exception.
Naturally, this development stirred surprise and curiosity among the teachers and students. Professor McGonagall walked over to Dumbledore's side and said in a voice only the two of them could hear, "I could understand Mr. Moriarty having partial control over the Castle, considering he is Slytherin's descendant. But this state of the Castle? It looks as though it's preparing for war! Albus, what is going