Chapter 144: The New Hogwarts Rap
Kyle and Professor Sprout walked through the foyer, up the Marble Staircase, and down a winding corridor. Professor Sprout's office was modest in size, filled with the earthy, sweet scent of soil. A warm fire crackled in the fireplace, and lush vines adorned the walls, giving the space a cozy, greenhouse-like atmosphere. Magical plants were scattered all around, making the room feel like a miniature version of the greenhouse outside.
Near the window sat a small desk, and on it was a brown box. Professor Sprout pointed to it.
"I received this package two days before the start of the school year. It came from the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, along with a letter saying it was compensation for the damage done to the Forbidden Forest," she explained. Her expression grew a little strange. "But as far as I know, Minerva didn't request any such compensation, so I believe it's meant for you."
"Ahem, yes, Professor," Kyle replied, a bit sheepishly. "I did write a letter to the Ministry of Magic—but only because the Hit Wizards asked me to. They knew I'd used some rare magical items in the Forbidden Forest, and that's how I managed to survive Oren. So, they generously decided to send some compensation."
"Did they, now?" Professor Sprout remarked with a smile. "But the letter also said they'd soon be sending someone to construct a new greenhouse for Hogwarts. Did you request that as well?"
"Er... no," Kyle answered after a brief pause. "I only mentioned that the excessive use of dark magic in the Forbidden Forest had destroyed many rare magical plants and trees that were centuries old. I guess that's their way of compensating the school."
Professor Sprout's expression grew even more peculiar. She flushed slightly and looked out the window, knowing well what plants were actually in the Forbidden Forest. Most of the rare and precious ones had been moved to the greenhouse ages ago. What remained were mostly common species like dittany and puffapods. And as for the so-called ancient trees... after the Hit Wizards left, it had only taken her and Filius five minutes to restore the forest to its former state with a simple General Counter-Spell.
Clearing her throat, Professor Sprout spoke with feigned outrage, "Yes, it's a shame about those plants. It's rare for the Ministry to consider these things and offer to build a new greenhouse for their protection."
Looking quite pleased, she added briskly, "So, why don't you stay here and inventory their compensation to see if anything's missing? But don't take too long; I believe the Sorting Ceremony will start soon."