Chapter 173: The Parchment Booklet in the Hut
Snape's expression darkened when he looked at the robe Kyle handed him, his face hardening as if he'd just been insulted. What did Kyle mean by needing to "identify it more carefully"? Did he think Snape enjoyed sniffing unpleasant things?
Snape shot Kyle a frigid look, refusing to take the robe, remaining silent.
"I believe Professor Snape is simply being cautious," Professor McGonagall interjected diplomatically, stepping in to diffuse the tension. "It's fortunate you didn't encounter the Troll. You should return now—the students are enjoying their Halloween dinner back in their houses."
"Yes, Professor McGonagall."
Snape glowered at Kyle's retreating back, his eyes full of resentment. Then, he turned sharply and spotted Quirrell cowering in the background.
"Quirrell, where is this Troll you keep going on about?" he demanded.
"It's... it's in the... dungeon." Quirrell stammered, leaning against the wall, clutching his chest. "It's really... fifteen feet tall... so high..."
"But Dumbledore already looked, and there's nothing in the dungeon!" Snape said impatiently. "Do you think it's funny, making everyone abandon the Halloween feast to chase after a Troll that doesn't even exist?"
"I... I didn't... Severus... I didn't..." Quirrell murmured, slowly sinking down along the wall, sobbing. "I don't know... it must have gone somewhere..."
"It's possible it wandered off," Professor Flitwick chimed in after a moment's thought. "For the students' safety, we should conduct a thorough search. I'll check the third floor."
"I'll take the fourth floor, then."