Although the Old Celestial Master spoke Chinese, Dumbledore seemed to understand him. Or rather, what he understood was not Chinese, but the meaning behind the Old Celestial Master's words.
He smiled and said, "You have an exceptional grandson. So exceptional, in fact, that I cannot help wanting to ask you for advice on raising children."
As he spoke, an invisible ripple spread out, and the Old Celestial Master understood him as well. His eyes narrowed with delight as he stroked his beard and laughed heartily.
"Oh, not at all. You flatter him, Headmaster Dumbledore."
The two old men laughed for a while before the Old Celestial Master asked,
"Do you enjoy doing this too, Headmaster Dumbledore?"
He pointed at Zhang Xiao, who was facing the Basilisk and Tom alone, then at the spot where the two of them stood.
Dumbledore nodded gently.
"I believe letting young wizards face danger on their own helps them grow. As teachers, we need only watch from the sidelines and ensure their safety."
* A kindred spirit! A kindred spirit!*
The two old men exchanged knowing smiles. One look was enough to confirm it: they both enjoyed hiding away to watch children engage in "life-and-death struggles."
"Shall we keep watching, then?"
"An excellent suggestion!"
The mass of young wizards looked less like a rescue party than a group on an unusual field trip. Wands raised, they poured into the Chamber of Secrets in a chaotic crowd.
Once they saw that the villainous Lockhart had fled on a giant snake, while Zhang remained completely unharmed,
the young wizards quickly became absorbed in the Chamber of Secrets' unusual architecture and distinctive decor.
They even began forming groups to tour the place.
The Slytherin students acted like staff at a tourist attraction. With the reverence of pilgrims,