It'll Cost You More

Kane handed the Panpipes to Professor Quirrell.

"I really put some work into this one. It can be played a full ten times. I think that should be enough for you, right?"

When Quirrell heard that the Panpipes could be played ten times, he practically seemed to float with joy. "Th-thank you. You did wonderfully."

"Then, the Forbidden Forest? Are you going? I can help you obtain some rare materials."

Kane raised a brow. Although he already had enough materials for himself, if Quirrell was the one inviting him, there was no harm in agreeing.

Dumbledore had been right. Whether Quirrell planned to steal the Philosopher's Stone or take Kane's Shadow Magic, the commotion would definitely be enormous. Quirrell could not do either in stages, or he would alert the enemy. So at least until Quirrell put his plan to steal the Philosopher's Stone into action, Kane was safe. And following Quirrell into the Forbidden Forest tonight was the perfect chance to see what Quirrell and Voldemort behind him were truly capable of.

Know yourself and know your enemy, after all.

"Would you mind waiting a moment? I need to write a letter to my friends."

Quirrell nodded. "O-of course."

Kane tore off a piece of parchment and wrote a note saying that he would most likely not be coming home to sleep tonight. Only after summoning a bird to deliver it to the headmaster's office did he look at Quirrell.

"We can leave now."

"Th-th-that's wonderful. Let's go at once!"

The two wizards, one grown and one young, slowly left the castle and headed toward the distant Forbidden Forest.

Just as they were about to enter the woods, Quirrell spoke.

"Kane, aren't you curious what I came to the Forbidden Forest to do?"

Kane gave Quirrell a somewhat puzzled