(The previous chapter has been expanded and revised to make up yesterday's word count. If you haven't seen it, remember to refresh and reread it. Scenes featuring Theodore and Alice have been added.)
Boom!
The Arched Gateway was shoved open, and a fierce-looking man strode in. It was Moody, soaked from head to toe.
After entering, Moody drew his wand and pointed it at the vaulted ceiling, interrupting the Scenic Magic that had suddenly erupted into thunder and lightning.
The ongoing Sorting Ceremony was immediately interrupted, and McGonagall sheltered the trembling first-years behind her.
She glared furiously at Moody, pursed her lips, and scolded him.
"Moody, apologize. Not only are you late, you've frightened the first-years! As a new professor, don't you know to tidy yourself up?"
There was no trace of remorse on Moody's ugly face. His Alchemy Eye swiveled around the hall, ignoring Professor McGonagall before fixing on the Slytherin table.
He stared steadily at the unruffled Shawn, his voice tinged with mockery.
"In the Wizarding World, appearances don't matter. As this year's Defence Against the Dark Arts Professor, I need to teach young wizards not to judge people by their looks.
"Some Dark Wizards are very good at disguising themselves, with kindly faces and black hearts. They dress themselves up in all sorts of ways to carry out their secret schemes. We must always be on our guard."
Those pointed, sarcastic remarks immediately drew displeased looks from all the young wizards.
At the Slytherin table, Shawn had yet to react, but quite a few Little Snakes sprang to their feet and drew their wands on Moody.
Moody remained brazenly unafraid. Leaning on his walking stick, he limped toward the High Table. As he passed the timid first-years, he even flashed them a toothy grin.
He sat down