"Performing? What are you talking about? I'm just here reading a book..." Arthur King's tone carried a hint of grievance as he watched the little wizard raise his magic wand at him.
The young professor immediately raised his hands, looking at the old headmaster beside him for help, appearing completely harmless, a stark contrast to the impression he gave Ian earlier.
It was as if he was disguising himself as a little lamb.
"Stop acting! The ghost thing left by Salazar Slytherin!" Ian had brought the two strongest forces of Hogwarts here because he believed he had connected all the dots.
How should I put it?
His analysis was quite logical and well-founded.
In this secret cycle created by Slytherin, even Grindelwald and Dumbledore were not exempt. What else could escape the cycle and, like Ian, become a special individual?
It's either Salazar Slytherin himself or the work he left before his death! Since the giant dragon in the Misty Illusion Realm once mentioned Slytherin's death to Ian, he was naturally more inclined to believe that Professor Arthur King's presence was Salazar Slytherin's legacy before his death.
If Gryffindor could leave a secret portrait with certain privileges, and Ravenclaw had eyes looking into the human world, then Salazar Slytherin might have left some means as well.
Life Alchemy.
This kind of pondering is exactly the style Salazar Slytherin might attempt. If Professor Arthur King isn't a person but a biological alchemy creation left by Salazar Slytherin, unaffected by fate and time, able to enter this cycle, then it's reasonable and logical.
"As an outstanding alchemy creation, teaching others about alchemy in the school is also quite reasonable!" Ian's analysis was indeed just speculation based on known facts. However, he wasn't afraid of being wrong, as any effects of his actions would reset to zero after the cycle reset.
"You think I'm an alchemy creation left by a founder of Hogwarts?" Arthur King was momentarily stunned, then widened his eyes in disbelief.
"Even though you're a first-year little wizard, I thought your study of alchemy was quite decent. But now, it seems you completely don't understand the taboos and limitations of biological alchemy!"
Arthur King's tone was filled with criticism and was indignant.
"What do you mean, professor?"
Ian didn't reply, just looked at Albus Dumbledore. The old headmaster remained silent for a while, then slightly shook his head at Ian with a flicker in his eyes.
"Hmm?"
Ian understood the meaning. This master of Legilimency didn't find a shred of information in Arthur King's memory that would make Albus Dumbledore suspicious of him.
"It shouldn't be like this!"
Ian was a bit astonished, looking at the fragments of robes on the ground. "He also likes to wear dark green clothes, which are the marks of Slytherin College."
Hearing the little wizard's words.
Arthur King rolled his eyes in exasperation.
"That's because I originally graduated from Slytherin College!" He looked at Ian's magic wand, as if only now realizing the person who attacked him was the little wizard in front of him.
"Professor Arthur King indeed is an outstanding Slytherin College graduate, and there's ample proof of this in his job application and... my memory."
Albus Dumbledore also spoke up for Arthur King, his voice calm and steady. Grindelwald looked up at him, then turned his gaze back to Professor Arthur King.
"I'm not afraid of a dark wizard like you." Arthur King seemed to be showing his courage, yet his voice carried a sense of guilt, clearly evident.
"Of course, that's great."
Grindelwald gave a dazzling smile.
"I never thought our headmaster would be so moved to take action against me because of a little wizard's nonsense, really making me feel quite disappointed."
Arthur King turned to Albus Dumbledore again, sounding very displeased. "I've worked for Hogwarts for eleven years, diligently without any mistakes, and have never done anything against the school and the students. Does these years of dedication not earn your trust?"
"I bet if it were Professor McGonagall being slandered by this little wizard, you definitely wouldn't allow him to take action against her." Arthur King's face was full of grievance.
He shot an indignant glare at Ian.
"Arthur, I apologize for today's unpleasant encounter. If there is any way to compensate you, feel free to let us know what you need."
Albus Dumbledore's tone was calm, his voice full of sincere apology.
On hearing this.
Arthur King's expression became somewhat more pleasant.
"Since you came here to find me based on a little wizard's slander, you owe me a proper explanation, right?" Arthur King sighed, his previous confrontational attitude softened.
"Mr. Prince told us that not long ago, you said some... inappropriate things to him in the hallway," Albus Dumbledore spoke vaguely.