The weather was growing colder.
Klein packed away his thin shirts and dug out his soft wool sweaters. Green-trimmed sweaters were standard Slytherin attire, worn by both boys and girls.
Paired with the dark decor of the Slytherin Common Room, at first glance they made everyone look like a clump of seaweed that had come to life.
It was Saturday, and there were no classes. For once, he hadn't gone out. Instead, he leaned back on the sofa and let his mind wander.
The third term was already halfway over.
Aside from the Azkaban riot at the very beginning, Hogwarts had been peaceful ever since.
After nearly all the escapees had been recaptured and sent back to Azkaban Prison, or confirmed dead—Soren had done a great service—the Dementors that had been hovering around the castle were withdrawn, too.
The Patronus Charm the young wizards had been taught was no longer needed, and the poor Patronuses inevitably became "House-elves" for them to duel with.
But it was fine. Magic was meant to be fun, wasn't it?
"Phew~"
Though fires burned nearby to keep the room warm, Klein still felt a chill.
After all, the Slytherin Common Room was built beneath the lake, and it was far too damp.
He figured old Salazar Slytherin must not have known there was such a thing as "rheumatism." Otherwise, when choosing the site, he wouldn't have cared only about looking impressive while ignoring the most important matter of all: health.
"Good morning, Senior Klein."
It was early in the morning, and Klein hadn't expected anyone to come to the common room. But he'd barely been sitting for a little while when he heard someone greet him.
He turned his head. A blonde girl was clutching the hem of her clothes, looking at him timidly.
"Good