In the Gryffindor Common Room, Harry Potter listened to the cheers outside and watched the scene through the Crystal Ball. He could not help clenching his fists, his face brimming with excitement and joy.
This was Gryffindor!
A sense of belonging that came from the depths of his soul made Harry Potter feel wonderfully at ease, and it further strengthened his resolve to defeat Malfoy.
The dueling arena.
Katelyle floated into the space between them, smiling as he asked, "Draco Malfoy, Neville Longbottom, are you both ready?"
"I'm ready," Malfoy said confidently.
Katelyle then turned his gaze toward Neville.
Neville took a deep breath and stared resolutely at Malfoy. "I'm ready, Professor!"
Ron Weasley's shouts and Gryffindor's support had greatly encouraged Neville, so he did not want to disappoint them now.
"Since you're both ready, observe the formalities!"
After saying that, Katelyle flapped his silvery-white wings and soared into the air. At the same time, a magical barrier enveloped the entire dueling arena.
The barrier existed to prevent magic used in the duel from striking outside the arena and injuring the spectators.
Neville and Malfoy exchanged a glance, then each raised his wand before him and bowed to the other as a sign of respect. Afterward, they each took ten steps back.
This was etiquette that had to be strictly followed when wizards dueled.
Lightning Ball Spell!
The moment he stopped, Malfoy immediately cast a spell at Neville without hesitation.
Though Neville was half a beat slower, he still swung his wand and formally accepted Malfoy's challenge.
Earth Wall Spell!
An Earth Wall rose up and blocked the incoming Lightning Orb, while Neville used the opportunity to retreat quickly.
Seeing Neville withdraw, Malfoy revealed a sinister smile and hurried after him. "Neville Longbottom, you're not only a liar, but a