As Christmas drew near, the weather in the Scottish Highlands grew colder and colder.
More and more students were unwilling to go outside, choosing instead to hole up in the castle—either resting warmly by the fireplace for a while or sitting at the long table to eat some hot food. Anything was better than freezing outdoors.
The conflict with Slytherin had not reached the professors' ears. The Gryffindor students were not foolish enough to walk into a trap, while the Slytherin students felt too humiliated to report it.
Besides, several upper-year students had attacked younger students and even used the word "Mudblood." Even if Snape came, he would have no choice but to deduct points from them.
Before they could welcome any newcomers to the Dueling Club, the Christmas holiday arrived right on schedule.
At Hogwarts, Christmas vacation was a long break, lasting from mid-December until mid-January of the following year.
A hundred years ago, aside from fifth year when he went to Nurmengard Castle, Harry had stayed at school every Christmas.
After all, other than Hogwarts, he had nowhere else to go.
Now that he had returned to 1991, he could go back to Aunt's house.
But to Harry, that was not home. On the contrary, Hogwarts felt more like home to him.
So when Professor McGonagall came around to register the students staying at school for the holidays, he decisively signed his name.
Partly because Hogwarts made him more comfortable, and partly because he wanted to continue exploring the castle.
He sat before Gryffindor's long table, idly eating breakfast. Ron and the others had stayed up too late celebrating before the holiday, so they were still asleep in bed.
The arrival of Christmas gave him an idea. On this holiday, friends were supposed to exchange gifts.
*Then I'll