Chapter 129: The Suitcase and the Niffler
In the days that followed, Kyle's routine shifted. At Tina's suggestion, he began spending mornings baking cookies and bread with her. Sometimes he even helped Newt care for the other magical creatures in the sanctuary. In the afternoons, he continued his Occlumency training with Natali, the Wampus Cat, though progress was still frustratingly slow. It felt as if he was perpetually just short of a breakthrough.
Another week passed, and when Kyle arrived at the clearing by the lake, he was surprised not to see Natali waiting for him.
"Am I early?" he muttered.
"No, your training is complete," Tina said, walking over with Newt, who was carrying a bucket of apples, and the Wampus Cat at their side.
"In fact, Natali hasn't been able to read your thoughts for a few days now," Newt explained. "Her recent attacks were purely instinctual."
Kyle frowned. "Instinctual?"
Newt nodded. "If you don't believe me, let's test it."
He pulled two apples from the bucket—one large and one small. "Choose an apple. Together."
Natali glanced at Kyle, and both pointed to the larger apple.