Chapter 282 "Hagrids Misfortune"

Harry's school life had taken a nosedive since the term began. Despite indulging in holiday festivities over Christmas, he remained clueless about the Triwizard Tournament's second task—the elusive golden egg.

Upon returning to school, Harry was met with an unexpected absence. Hagrid, his Care of Magical Creatures instructor, was nowhere to be found. In his place stood Professor Grubbly-Plank, a stern-looking witch with short gray hair and a prominent chin.

It was only then that Harry discovered Hagrid's secret—he was a half-giant. This revelation had been uncovered by none other than the notorious reporter Rita Skeeter, who wasted no time in broadcasting the scandalous news.

According to Rita's exposé, Hagrid had been expelled from Hogwarts during his third year. Since then, he had served as the school's gamekeeper, a position allegedly secured through dubious means.

Rita's damning article painted Hagrid as a menacing figure who abused his authority, instilling fear in the students under his care. Dubbed "The Unhinged," Hagrid's classes were described as harrowing experiences, with numerous students purportedly suffering injuries and traumas.

Despite these allegations, Dumbledore remained conspicuously silent on the matter, leading many to question the integrity of Hogwarts' leadership.

"Adding to the controversy, recent evidence has come to light, revealing that Hagrid's lineage is far from what he has portrayed. Contrary to his claims of being a pure-blood wizard, Hagrid is not even of pure-blood descent. Our investigation has uncovered that his mother is none other than the giantess Fridwulva, whose whereabouts remain unknown. Fridwulva was notorious for her cruelty and bloodlust, and her kind faced near extinction due to relentless slaughter. Those who survived, numbering only a dozen, joined forces with a mysterious individual, participating in some of the most brutal massacres of Muggles during his reign of terror.

While many giants perished in battles against Aurors combating the forces of darkness, Fridwulva was conspicuously absent from such conflicts. Speculations suggest she sought refuge in one of the few remaining giant villages nestled in remote mountain ranges. However, the unsettling behavior witnessed in Hagrid's Care of Magical Creatures class suggests he may have inherited his mother's savage nature.

Shockingly, reports indicate that Hagrid formed a close bond with a young boy—a connection that ultimately led to the downfall of the enigmatic figure, thereby betraying Hagrid's origins. The boy in question? None other than Harry Potter, whose own mother remained in hiding to escape persecution. Their classmates, aware of the inherent dangers of associating with half-blood giants, undoubtedly view Hagrid with newfound wariness."

The Harry trio made numerous attempts to locate and contact Hagrid, but their efforts proved futile as Hagrid seemed to be deliberately avoiding them.

Despite persistent knocking on the door of Hagrid's hut, they received no response. Days turned into a week, and still, there was no sign of Hagrid.

He failed to make appearances at meals in the Great Hall, and his absence on the grounds as the gamekeeper was conspicuous.

Meanwhile, Professor Grubbly-Plank continued to fill in as the substitute teacher for Care of Magical Creatures, further fueling speculation about Hagrid's prolonged absence.

In mid-January, during a trip to Hogsmeade, Skyler once again took the initiative to gather members of the Serpentis Vigil Club at the Three Broomsticks.

The club, now boasting 30 members, including 12 recent additions from Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw, were delighted to discover the perks of being part of the organization.

They found themselves able to enjoy various activities and amenities, with the senior members generously covering the expenses. This newfound camaraderie and sense of belonging fostered among the club members further solidified their bond.

During the festivities at the Three Broomsticks, Skyler noticed the Harry trio entering the establishment with somber expressions.

They took a seat at a table and engaged in what seemed to be a serious conversation. In a dimly lit corner, Ludo Bagman was huddled with a group of goblins, speaking to them in hushed tones.

The goblins appeared formidable as they crossed their arms and glared menacingly.

Bagman, looking nervous, glanced toward the bar and spotted Harry.

Hastily, he rose from his seat and approached Harry, leading him to a secluded spot away from the prying eyes of Madam Rosmerta. They engaged in a lengthy conversation, their voices barely audible.

Eventually, Bagman appeared disappointed and somewhat irritated as they bid each other farewell and parted ways.

Unbeknownst to Harry and Bagman, Skyler, observing from another corner, keenly caught every detail of their interaction with his sharp eyes.