Chapter 34: The Triumphant Trio

As Ethan emerged victorious from the intense battle with the troll, a wave of relief washed over him. His breath came in ragged gasps, his muscles aching from the exertion of combat. But amidst the chaos and confusion, there was a sense of satisfaction—a quiet triumph in his solitary victory.

Harry and Hermione stood beside him, their eyes wide with disbelief and gratitude. "I can't believe you did it," Hermione exclaimed, her voice tinged with awe. "That was incredible!"

Harry nodded in agreement, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yeah, you really pulled through, didn't you?" he said, his tone filled with admiration for his newfound ally.

But as the adrenaline of battle began to fade, Ethan knew that his victory had come at a cost. The toll of his efforts was evident in the shattered remnants of the troll, its massive form lying still upon the stone floor.

Just then, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the chamber, drawing Ethan's attention to the figures of Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape as they hurried towards them, their expressions a mix of concern and relief.

"What in Merlin's name happened here?" Professor McGonagall exclaimed, her eyes widening in shock as she took in the scene before her.

"We were just in the library when we heard a commotion," Hermione explained quickly, her voice betraying a hint of nervousness. "We came to investigate and found the troll here already subdued."

Harry nodded in agreement, adding, "Yeah, someone must have taken care of it before we got here. We were just making sure everything was okay."

Professor Snape's eyes narrowed as he surveyed the trio, his gaze piercing and inscrutable. "Remarkable," he murmured, his voice betraying a grudging respect. "It seems the situation is under control."

Before the professors could ask any further questions, Ethan leaned in close to Harry and Hermione, his voice barely a whisper. "Please," he said, "don't tell anyone about... what happened here. It's important."

Harry and Hermione exchanged a glance before nodding in agreement. "Of course, Ethan," Harry replied, his tone serious. "Your secret is safe with us."

With a shared understanding, the trio continued on their way, their bond strengthened by the events of the night. And as Ethan settled into bed, he knew that he could rely on his friends to keep his secret, just as he would always be there to support them in return.