Ch. 81The truth comes to light
Lucius learned that Hogwarts had begun investigating the Chamber of Secrets and planned to use the scare to pressure Dumbledore and frame Hagrid. Harry, Ron, and Hermione uncovered evidence pointing to a Basilisk, then Harry stood against the Ministry as it tried to take Hagrid away.
- Lucius read Draco’s letter about Hogwarts’ Truth Chambers and decided to use the investigation to pressure Dumbledore and implicate Hagrid.
- Harry, Ron, and Hermione examined Colin’s photograph and the deaths of Hagrid’s chickens, concluding that the monster was likely a Basilisk rather than an Acromantula.
- Hermione found a keyhole on a tap in Moaning Myrtle’s Bathroom, and the three discovered the third Truth Chamber, containing snake-headed statues and a pool.
- Neville told Harry that Ministry officials were taking Hagrid away, and Harry rushed to Hagrid’s Hut with the group’s evidence.
- Harry identified the Basilisk as the monster that killed Moaning Myrtle and challenged Lucius, insisting that Hagrid could not be taken on speculation alone.