But there must be a reason for such changes in Spider King Aragog. It would be best to figure it out before setting off...
Hagrid: "Actually, a few months ago, a strange bird suddenly intruded into the Forbidden Forest, wantonly hunting the outer spiders and competing with Aragog for prey..."
Ethan: "?"
Hm? Wait. Why does this sound... somewhat familiar?
Hagrid said excitedly: "I once caught a distant glimpse of that strange bird. What a beautiful creature it was! It had arms and legs resembling a human's, a graceful swan-like neck, and deep blue flames dancing like starlight in its skull cavity. How I'd love to get near enough to study it!"
Ethan: "..."
Ethan's pupils trembled slightly. He tried to remain still, not letting others see the imperceptible wavering on his face.
This description perfectly matches the Death Bird I casually fused during the first Defence Against the Dark Arts class! Didn't expect it to settle in the Forbidden Forest... Norwegian Ridgeback mother and child, Death Bird, Spider King Aragog. The Forbidden Forest really is full of talent. And it forced the spiders into a desperate situation. Well done! Truly worthy of being my good eldest son!
Harry: 'Ethan, what's with that proud expression?' It reminded him of a father beaming when someone complimented his child. Not that Harry had ever experienced such moments himself.
"Hehe,' Ethan scratched his nose sheepishly, 'I have no idea what you're talking about."
Looking at Hagrid, his gaze took on a hint of recognition. Confirmed through aesthetic appreciation... kindred spirits.
Ethan made up his mind instantly: "Of course, Hagrid. Since you've asked so earnestly, I suppose I can spare the time to accompany you."
Hagrid: "Thank... thank you..." Though you could sound a bit more enthusiastic about it.
Ethan was practically bursting with anticipation to see how large his Death Bird had become from its original modest size! However, proper etiquette demanded bringing a present for his beloved creation. Perhaps... a "spider-crushing weapon" would be appropriate.
Ethan curved his lips. Glancing at the red-orange sunset outside, he said to the impatient Hagrid: "It's still early. Let me prepare first."
Finally...
Including Hagrid and Cho Chang, a group of seven set out on this "visit" to the Spider King in the Forbidden Forest.
With Ethan here, nothing bad could happen, right? This was what the others thought.
"Hehe hehe~" Ethan hummed a little tune, walking at the front with light, cheerful steps. Like going on an outing.
"With that mentality, no wonder Ethan succeeds at everything." Ron sighed from behind, staying close to his good friend Harry.
Harry: "You could too. As long as you give up being human."
Ron: "Haha, I'll pass." He wasn't ready to give up his human status yet.
The reason for Ethan's joy was that he held a freshly made artwork card in his hand! Equipment Card: "Mithril Staff"!
[Mithril Staff]
[Type: Portrait Painting]
[Grade: Tier 1 · Blue Precious]
[Description: A giant staff-like weapon, exclusive to Death Birds. In their hands, it displays power exceeding Tier 1]
[Effect: Has unbreakable properties. When swung, produces cold, deep blue flames with corrosive effects]
[Evaluation: Death Bird's signature weapon. Someday you'll need to cultivate your own non-human army, right?]
The card face showed a silver-gleaming, diamond-shaped long staff with a sharp front end. Fused with mithril ore powder and moonstone powder from the Malfoy family's gift box. Mixed with magical power, he used fine brush strokes to engrave Bluebell Flames spell patterns on it. It emanated a sacred, holy aura!
Perfect match for the Death Bird's temperament! I really want to see how handsome my good eldest son will look equipped with this card! Won't it completely crush some Spider King Aragog!
Through the dark, dense forest, the ground beneath their feet gradually became sticky. Spider webs covered every corner within sight. Except for Hagrid, Ethan, and Luna, everyone else looked deathly pale.
"Ah... ah..." Ron was almost scared silly. Because he saw countless shadowy figures surging in that darkness.
Finally, they came to a clearing. "Aragog! I've brought friends!" Hagrid shouted, sniffing hard.
Rustle rustle. Under the horrified gazes of Harry and the others, a leg as thick as an adult man's arm extended from ahead. Then a small mountain slowly rose.
Ron was already hiccupping from fear. While Harry and the others froze in place. Never seen such a huge spider! One compound eye was fist-sized! Hagrid, what have you been raising in the Forbidden Forest?!
Ethan's eyes lit up. Bait! Such big bait!
[You have come, Hagrid. Thank you for bringing so many humans for me.] The Spider King's voice was aged and weary. However, greedy, hungry light shot from those eight compound eyes.
Rustle rustle. Countless dog-sized spiders surrounded them from all directions. They descended on silk from the sky, clicking their vicious fangs at the group.
Ron shuddered: "Is... is the atmosphere a bit off...?"
Obviously, Hagrid thought so too. His furry face froze as he stammered: "They... they're all here to see you off, right?"
The Spider King remained silent. Hagrid: "Right?"
[Forgive my deception, dear Hagrid. I pray you'll comprehend my desperation. Ever since that peculiar creature arrived, my children have struggled to hunt successfully. They waste away before my eyes. What father could watch his offspring starve? They require sustenance... living flesh.]
Hmph. As expected. Ethan thought. What a farewell. It should be called "home delivery" instead. Only a half-giant who wholeheartedly believes dangerous creatures aren't dangerous would be so easily deceived.
Ethan casually looked away, surveying the surroundings. He felt it. The connection between himself and that Death Bird. It was rapidly flying this way.
Hagrid stared in disbelief for a long moment before roaring: "You lied to me! You had me bring my friends just to get fresh blood and flesh?!"
Aragog: [Nothing is more delicious than a group of helpless, fragrant and sweet human children... Sorry, Hagrid. Except for you, everyone else must die here today and become food for my offspring.]
Suddenly, Hagrid roared. He scooped up the still-confused Harry and others, trying to rush out! However, the spiders were already prepared. Hundreds of black shadows pounced out like a tidal wave, overwhelming them!
Ethan parried a spider's stabbing fang but pretended to be bitten. He collapsed limply, letting himself be bound with spider silk. After all, using cards didn't require any movements... he could use them anytime.
Ethan looked at the dark sky, dark gleams flickering in the depths of his cobalt-blue eyes. He was waiting. Waiting for the Death Bird to arrive on the scene!
Let me see your true power, my good eldest son!
In his hand, the "Mithril Staff" emanated sparkling silver light.