Dumbledore raised a hand slightly and said, "Quiet, children. Quiet, please."
At Dumbledore's words, the noisy corridor gradually fell silent.
"I understand your surprise, and I understand your admiration for Mr. Will Behrens.
"In fact, there may be no one in all of Hogwarts who knows Mr. Behrens's talents and abilities better than I do," Dumbledore said. "But the appointment of Head Boy was made after considering many factors."
He turned to look at Draco Malfoy, who stood beside him with a tense expression.
"Mr. Malfoy was already one of the candidates for Prefect, though certain circumstances prevented him from taking up the position. Choosing him this time was a decision I made after careful consideration."
After hearing Dumbledore's explanation, the students exchanged glances, unsure what to say. But this was Dumbledore's appointment. With the greatest light wizard of the century having spoken, naturally, no one would say anything more.
Even if some still failed to understand, the name "Dumbledore" alone explained everything.
"All right, off you go." Dumbledore waved a hand. "Classes for the new term will begin soon. I hope you will devote more energy to your studies rather than pointless arguments."
Only then did the crowd reluctantly disperse, though a few hostile glances were still directed at Draco.
Draco swallowed and straightened his back, maintaining the dignity expected of the Malfoy family. He turned toward the Slytherin Common Room, though his steps were considerably faster than usual.
However, the matter did not end so easily.
At the corner leading to the Underground Classroom, he ran straight into Ron, Seamus, Harry, and Neville.
Draco stopped, a trace of gloom flashing through his eyes, but he quickly adjusted his expression, adopting a careless look. "Move aside, please. Surely you aren't going to block the way."
Ron's face was flushed