Chapter 116: The Visit

Newt Scamander and his family lived in seclusion in Dorset, in the southern part of England, on a small hill. The surrounding landscape was lush with soft, green grass, and from the front door, one could see a distant Muggle village. Of course, the same spells that protected Hogwarts were in place here. To Muggles, the hill appeared to be nothing but barren rocks. Steven, who was familiar with the place, pushed open the door to reveal a winding garden path. A group of fairies flitted about with butterflies, flying among the large blossoms, creating an enchanting scene. Rustling sounds came from the grass, and a brown-yellow Kneazle poked its head out. It watched Wade cautiously, and its large ears twitched slightly. Soon, a second Kneazle appeared. These creatures were naturally alert and could sense if someone had a corrupt heart. "Hey, Hobie, Milly," Steven crouched down and smiled happily, "It's been a while. Did you miss me?" Hobie, recognizing Steven, relaxed and climbed onto him, making baby-like cooing sounds. The other Kneazle approached Wade and brushed its paws delicately against his trousers before climbing up his leg. Wade quickly picked it up. "Milly likes you," Steven said, clearly pleased. "They're Mr. Scamander's pets. There's another one named Moller, but he doesn't like going outside much." The two of them followed the stone path into the yard, where Newt Scamander was already waiting at the foot of the steps, and a Kneazle with sharp ears lazily lying at his feet. Newt Scamander was now 95 years old. He was no longer the young, shy figure seen in the films. Time had gifted him with graying hair and faint wrinkles, but it hadn't changed the certain innocent and earnest quality he carried. His eyes were still clear, and he slightly angled his body as if unconsciously avoiding eye contact, giving off a somewhat reserved impression. Even though the two visitors—whether in terms of age, social status, or magical ability—were far below Newt Scamander, he didn't display the slightest hint of superiority. It was as if he were a child, fearful of causing harm and easily hurt by evil. "Good morning, Steven," Newt said quietly, casting a reserved glance at Wade. "Welcome, Mr. Wade Grey." Wade gave a slight bow. "Please, just call me Wade. I've always admired you greatly. I hope our sudden visit isn't too much of a bother." "Not at all," Newt replied softly. "I'm glad to see talented young wizards interested in these things." A boy with curly brown hair emerged from behind Newt and flashed a bright smile at Wade. "Hello! I heard you invented the Book of Friends?" "Mind your manners, Rolf," Newt said gently. Clearly, he wasn't the authoritative figure in his grandson's eyes. Rolf made a silly face behind his back before extending his hand. "Hello, I'm Rolf—Rolf Scamander," the boy grinned. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Wade Grey, inventor of the Book of Friends." "Hello," Wade replied, shaking his hand. "Do you want a tour of my grandfather's magical animal sanctuary? Come on, I'll be your guide!" Rolf eagerly pulled Wade forward while Newt and Steven followed behind with amused smiles. "I heard you recently went to America?" Steven asked. "Yes, to see an old friend," Newt sighed. "About seventy years ago, I sent it to America. I didn't expect that now, I would have to send it off from this world." Hearing this, Steven realized that Newt was talking about a Thunderbird. Surprised, he said, "I thought Thunderbirds had long lifespans?" "It was injured too badly while protecting its young. It didn't survive long enough for treatment," Newt said sorrowfully. "You know, they can summon lightning and storms, which makes them targets for poachers." "Damn poachers!" Steven said angrily. "I've always dreamed of seeing a Thunderbird in person, and they dare harm one!" "Well, today your dream might come true," Newt said, forcing a smile. "After Frank's death, his child was left unprotected. To keep it safe, I brought it back here." Meanwhile, Rolf paid no attention to his grandfather's conversation with Steven. He was too excited, chatting with Wade: "The Book of Friends is such an amazing invention! Everyone in our family has one. My grandmother has the most—she has three!" "I have one too! One for my grandfather, one for my grandmother, one for my parents, and one for my uncle... Talking on paper is even more fun than face-to-face!" "There is one small problem though! The messages don't stay saved for long! Sometimes I take a nap and miss a message from my mom, and she gets upset... Ah, we need to go in through here!" He placed a brown suitcase on the ground, opened it, and climbed inside. Just as his upper body remained visible, he turned back and waved at Wade, signaling for him to follow. Then, it was as if the suitcase swallowed him whole, and he disappeared. Wade had seen this scene before in a movie in his past life, so he smiled knowingly and followed him inside. The suitcase's entrance was narrow, but inside, the space had been magically expanded to resemble a small portable world. Going down a staircase, they arrived in a small cluttered room that looked like a storage space filled with various old things. But Wade didn't have time to examine them closely. "Hurry up!" Rolf shouted from ahead, opening a wooden door that didn't seem too sturdy. "Creaaak—" The door hinges groaned, and a rush of cool, damp air mixed with the scent of animals greeted them. A vast world suddenly opened up before them with breathtaking intensity. Wade couldn't help but hold his breath, and his heart was pounding like a drum. Experiencing all this in person—being in this magical, extraordinary space—was entirely different from just watching it unfold on a movie screen. For a moment, he felt like his breath was taken away. Magic... such an incredible power... Having grown up in this place, Rolf was used to it and couldn't fully grasp Wade's sense of awe. Seeing him stand frozen in place, Rolf pulled him by the arm and led him off to the side. "This way, I'll show you the new resident here!" They hadn't walked far when they came upon a golden desert, with a few towering stone pillars in the middle. Perched in the hollow of one of the pillars was a baby bird with three pairs of wings and a long, slender tail. It was fast asleep with its feathers swaying gently in the breeze. Rolf motioned for silence and carefully led Wade closer. He then gestured for Wade to do as he did and gently extend his hand toward the bird. -------------------------------- ????????Please consider supporting this translation project by becoming a P@treon member!!! Your support is greatly appreciated! Available on my P@treon page for just $4!! 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