Chapter 30: 524,880 Experiments
discord.gg/q5KWmtQARF
Join my Discord!
**************
Hello dear readers! I would like to inform you that, this is the last chapter about potion making for a while. It might a little long, but I wanted to give a glimpse of how Harry undertakes it, and in the future, you will only see the results or little of it. (I will still write. But not as detailed.) So, I hope you can bear with me. Thanks!
--
Harry sighed, the weight of the task ahead settling on his shoulders. "Adding two new ingredients will increase the number of experiments to over two thousand. Considering the maturity of ingredients, even with just three categories – low, medium, and high – we're looking at a staggering 524,880 experiments. Thankfully, my understanding has deepened over the week, allowing me to eliminate most of these combinations without testing." He adjusted two virtual cauldrons, preparing to test Flobberworm Mucus and Dittany separately. His strategy was to modify the order of addition and preparation methods, systematically exploring each possibility.
As he began, Nigel chimed in, "Indeed, Master Harry, your progress is akin to a prodigious leap in potion-making. Quite impressive, if I may say so."
Harry focused on the first new cauldron, carefully measuring and adding a precise amount of Flobberworm Mucus. "Let's start with a basic mixture and observe its consistency," he mused, noting the viscosity of the potion as it began to simmer.
"Consistency is key, but so is subtlety," Nigel observed, watching the potion's texture change. "A dash too much, and you could end up with a potion more suitable for caulking than curing."
Harry chuckled at Nigel's remark. He then turned to the second cauldron, adding Dittany with a measured hand. "Dittany's healing properties are well-documented, but I need to ensure it doesn't overpower the other ingredients."
"A delicate dance of elements, indeed," Nigel agreed. "Too strong a lead, and the dance is lost."
As Harry worked, he maintained a meticulous record of each trial, methodically altering the variables. He tested different boiling times for the Dittany, varying the stirring patterns, and adjusting the heat. Each experiment was a careful step towards understanding the intricate balance required.
"Let's not forget the sequencing," Harry said, preparing to alter the order in which he added the ingredients. "If I add the Dittany before the Snake Fangs, for instance, it might change the potion's reaction entirely."
"True," Nigel replied. "Sequencing can turn a potion from a masterpiece to a mishap in a mere moment."
After several hours of rigorous testing, Harry paused to review his findings. The screens above the cauldrons displayed detailed data from each experiment. He noted the combinations that yielded the most promising results and those that led to less desirable outcomes.
"Time to combine the new ingredients with the original four," Harry declared, his confidence growing with each successful experiment.
As he proceeded, he experimented with adding the Flobberworm Mucus and Dittany at different stages of the brewing process. He observed how their introduction at various points affected the potion's color, consistency, and magical potency.
"Nigel, let's try adding the Dittany after the Nettle Leaves but before the Snake Fangs. And for the next one, we'll add the Flobberworm Mucus last," Harry suggested, eager to see the outcomes of these new combinations.
"A sound strategy," Nigel concurred. "Variety is the spice of potion-making, after all."
Experiment by experiment, Harry's understanding of the Cure for Boils potion deepened. He discovered that the Flobberworm Mucus, when added last, provided a stabilizing effect, smoothing out the potion's texture without diminishing its healing properties. The Dittany, meanwhile, enhanced the potion's efficacy when added right after the Nettle Leaves, complementing their anti-inflammatory qualities.
"Look at this, Nigel," Harry exclaimed, pointing at a particularly successful brew. "This combination has a remarkable balance. The potion is stable, potent, and has a pleasant consistency."
"Indeed, Master Harry, it appears you've hit upon a winning formula," Nigel remarked. "Your potion-making skills are advancing at an impressive rate."
Encouraged by his progress, Harry decided to challenge himself further. "Let's factor in the maturity of the ingredients now. It's time to see how that affects the potion."
As Harry began this new phase of experimentation, he realized the sheer scale of the undertaking. Each ingredient's maturity level added another layer of complexity to the potion. He adjusted his approach, focusing on the most promising combinations and eliminating those that offered little potential.
Hours turned into days, and days into a week, as Harry continued his meticulous work in the Virtual Potion Crafting Room. With each experiment, he inched closer to mastering the Cure for Boils potion, his skills honing with every trial.
"Nigel, update me on my progress," Harry requested, taking a brief respite from his work.
The screen above displayed his current mastery level – an impressive 78%. "You're nearly there, Master Harry. A few more adjustments, and you'll surpass the 80% mark," Nigel encouraged.
Harry nodded, determination etched on his face. "Then let's continue. I'm close to unlocking the full potential of this potion."
As he resumed his work, Harry felt a sense of purpose and excitement. The challenges of potion-making, once daunting, now invigorated him. He was on the cusp of a breakthrough, one that would mark a significant milestone in his journey.
Finally, two weeks after he first began his relentless experiments, Harry achieved a breakthrough. The digital progress circle in front of him glowed a triumphant blue, indicating he had reached the 80% mastery level. "I did it! We did it, Nigel!" he exclaimed, his laughter filled with relief and triumph. "Show me the formula I used, please."
Nigel, ever the meticulous aide, promptly brought up the detailed formula on a virtual screen. "Certainly, Master Harry. Let's dissect your victorious concoction," he said, his voice tinged with pride.
"Firstly, you began with the Nettle Leaves," Nigel started. "You opted for a medium grind – striking a balance between their inherent properties and the overall potion composition."
Harry nodded, recalling the careful considerations for each step. "Then, I boiled them for exactly 12 minutes at a medium simmer," he added.
"Indeed," Nigel continued. "Precision in timing was crucial, allowing the Nettle Leaves to release their essence effectively without degradation."
"Next came the addition of Dittany," Harry said, eager to review each detail. "Added after the Nettle Leaves but before the Snake Fangs, its healing properties were enhanced, complementing the Leaves' effects."
"Correct," Nigel replied. "The Dittany's inclusion before the Snake Fangs was a strategic decision. It synergized well with the Leaves without being overshadowed by the Fangs' potency."
"Then, the Snake Fangs," Harry interjected, "finely ground to maximize their reactive potential, but added gradually."
"A sprinkle here, a dash there," Nigel said. "Ensuring they integrated seamlessly into the brew. Any haste might have led to volatility."
"The Porcupine Quills followed," Harry continued. "Cut into precise half-inch lengths for even dissolution, crucial for the potion's stability."
"Uniformity was key with the quills," Nigel agreed. "And then, the grating of Horned Slugs. Their mucus, when evenly distributed, significantly enhanced the potion's binding qualities."
"And the stirring," Harry added, "was rhythmic and clockwise, maintaining a consistent flow and energy throughout the potion."
"Like conducting an orchestra," Nigel quipped. "Each stir a note in your potion-making symphony. And you maintained a medium flame, keeping the brew active without overheating."
Harry paused, reflecting on the adjustments he had made. "And finally, the Flobberworm Mucus was added last. It smoothed out the potion's texture without diminishing its healing properties."
"Indeed," Nigel concluded. "Each ingredient was meticulously chosen and added in a sequence that maximized their individual and collective effects, leading to your potion's success."
"A perfect finale to the brewing process," Nigel remarked. "The Mucus served as the binding agent, bringing all the elements together in harmony."
Harry studied the screen, where a diagram illustrated the entire brewing process in a detailed flowchart. "What about the maturity of the ingredients? How did that factor in?"
"A critical element," Nigel noted. "The maturity of the Nettle Leaves and Snake Fangs, in particular, played a significant role. Younger Leaves lent a fresher essence, while mature Fangs offered a more potent reaction."
Harry sighed, a sense of accomplishment washing over him. "So many variables, and yet, we found the optimal balance."
"Indeed, Master Harry. The art of potion-making is all about finding that balance," Nigel said. "Too much of one element, and you risk overpowering the potion. Too little, and its efficacy wanes."
Harry glanced around the room, filled with cauldrons representing his journey. "This process has taught me so much. Not just about potion-making, but about patience, precision, and persistence."
Nigel's voice carried a tone of wisdom. "All valuable lessons, Master Harry. In potion-making, as in life, the journey is as important as the destination."
"Looking at this final formula, I realize how every little detail matters," Harry said, studying the screen. "The exact temperature, the precise measurements, the timing of each addition."
"It's a delicate dance," Nigel agreed. "And you, Master Harry, have become quite the proficient dancer in the realm of potions."
Harry chuckled, amused by Nigel's metaphor. "I guess I have. Now that I've achieved 80% mastery, what's next, 100%?"
Nigel, manifesting a semblance of shaking his head within Harry's mind, responded, "The reason why the System set an 80% limit is because anything above that threshold requires the integration of magical elements directly into the potion, or manipulating the ingredients with magic during preparation. This is an advanced form of potion-making, one that delves into a more intricate interplay of the magical and the mundane. What you've achieved, Master Harry, is nothing short of remarkable. You should take pride in your accomplishment."
Harry, absorbing Nigel's explanation, nodded thoughtfully. "I see. Well, two weeks focused solely on potion-making has indeed been quite intense. I think I'll shift my focus to another subject for a while. A change of pace might be good for me."
Nigel's voice, ever present in Harry's mind, carried a hint of amusement. "Indeed, Master Harry. While your dedication to potions is commendable, there's a whole world of magic out there waiting for your exploration. Diversifying your studies will not only give you a well-rounded foundation but perhaps also a much-needed respite from the scent of simmering cauldrons."
Harry chuckled, feeling a wave of relief at the prospect of stepping away from the potion cauldrons. "You're right, Nigel. I think I'll delve into magical theory next. There's so much to learn about the fundamentals of magic."
"An excellent choice," Nigel responded. "Understanding the principles that underpin magic will enhance your capabilities in all other areas, including potion-making. Shall we begin with the basics of spellcasting, or perhaps you're more inclined towards magical history?"
--
My lovely readers! My Original Novel is finally vetted! You can find it under my profile, or search its name, "Gunslinger System in a World of Sword and Magic" or search by abbreviation; GSWSM. I need support in my Original Novel please! There are 5.2k collection for Harry Potter and 1.6k for Naruto fic. I will publish another chapter(Harry Potter and Horyu chapter) for every 1000 collection in my original novel. Please support me! Thank you.
--
It is the start of the new week. Please support me with Power Stones! Much appreciated!
-----
To Read up to 50 advance Chapters (25 for each novel) and support me...
patreon.com/thefanficgod1
Please drop a comment and like the chapter!
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone