Reynolds was startled, nearly jumping out of his chair, his expression a mix of surprise and embarrassment:
"Professor? Have you been observing us all along?"
"Observing? That's too stiff a word!"
The figure in the portrait—a white-haired elder with a youthful face—waved his hand with a mischievous smile:
"I was just passing by and happened to hear someone praising me, so I paid more attention for a while. What, Reynolds, does this 'unexpected guest' make you uncomfortable?"
Although it was just a portrait, Ron could peer through this narrow gap and glimpse a corner of the vast ocean, its profound aura far exceeding any Wizard he had seen so far.
Reynolds quickly shook his head, his expression changing from surprise to respect:
"Of course not, Professor. It's just that your appearance is somewhat..."
"Sudden? Unexpected? Heart-pounding?"
The elder laughed heartily:
