Chapter 624: How Good Are You at the Memory Charm?
It seemed that after being granted the title of High Inquisitor, Umbridge wasted no time in proving her loyalty to Fudge.
Naturally, she didn't go after formidable opponents like Professor McGonagall or Professor Flitwick right away. Instead, she chose a softer target: Professor Sybill Trelawney and her Divination class.
To carry out her plan, Umbridge observed a fifth-year Divination lesson that afternoon. By the time Kyle arrived at the Great Hall, Ron was already at the Gryffindor table, enthusiastically recounting the scene to a growing crowd.
"Umbridge was sitting at the back of the classroom, quill in hand, scribbling away on her clipboard," Ron said, gesturing animatedly. "She looked like she was grading Professor Trelawney or something..."
Students from all four houses had gathered around, eager to learn what the so-called High Inquisitor was actually up to. Kyle, curious himself, had tried to attend the class but had been delayed by Herbology and couldn't make it in time.
Just then, Hermione walked into the hall, carrying an armful of books, with Harry trailing behind her, visibly angry.
"I think Professor McGonagall is right," Hermione was saying as they approached. "You need to control your temper a bit. Constantly arguing with Umbridge isn't helping you, Harry. It's only going to make things worse."
"I can't help it," Harry retorted, his frustration evident. "She insults Sirius, and I'm just supposed to sit there? Voldemort was stuck to the back of Quirrell's head, for Merlin's sake—I'm just telling the truth!"
"But your truth isn't what she wants to hear," Hermione replied. "And she can punish you however she likes. You're only hurting yourself."
"I don't care!" Harry snapped. "I'm not going to let her win. Let her punish me—she can do whatever she wants! I'm not the only one who's stood up to her. Kyle argued with her too!"
"Actually, I'd rather you didn't follow my example," came Kyle's voice from beside them.