Clearly, the other teachers had heard those rumors circulating outside the school too.
When Professor McGonagall mentioned a book, they all turned to Douglas.
But Douglas was staring at Professor McGonagall, his expression grave.
Professor McGonagall stared right back, refusing to give ground.
Just then, a question suddenly occurred to Douglas: why had he hidden his identity in the first place?
During his school years, it had been to hide his wealth and ensure his own safety, lest some Dark wizard short on money ambush him the moment he left the school gates.
After graduation, it had been to avoid attracting Voldemort's attention when the future war came.
But now, it seemed he could no longer avoid it. Just being a Muggle-born Professor of Defense Against the Dark Arts was enough.
Voldemort would surely think even an Avada Kedavra was letting him off too easily.
Besides, back then, he had neither a system nor anyone backing him. All he could do was tread carefully to survive.
But now he had a system. What the hell was there to be afraid of...
After a long silence, Douglas let out a chuckle and raised his glass.
"Professor, don't make the atmosphere so tense!
"Hmm... what did you have in mind about this?"
Professor McGonagall raised her glass and said bluntly,
"I don't know what you're worrying about. As a student, you managed to break numerous school rules. Hogwarts even had to add several new ones because of you.
"Mr. Holmes, stop smiling! That was not a compliment..."
But several of the other professors could not stop themselves from laughing.
Then Professor McGonagall could no longer keep a straight face either and joined in.
Just then, Madam Rosmerta came over with a plate of pastries and chimed in with a smile.
"Speaking of