Chương 35: 35
Chapter 35: Professor Murray and Alchemy
Alchemy is closely intertwined with ancient runes, a course known for its complexity. Unlike most magical subjects that emphasize practical application, ancient runes demand rigorous memorization—characters, shapes, pronunciations, and meanings differ vastly from modern languages. Mastery of this subject hinges on sheer repetition, a task few students achieve before graduation.
Luckily, Ravenclaws aren't known for poor memory. While not matching Hermione's prowess, Wade, through dedicated training, bolstered his memory to match her pace. In just three months, his affinity for magic and alchemy allowed him to commit entire tomes to memory, reinforcing it through relentless recitation. Mistakes were now a rarity.
After a brief silence, Professor Murray began probing Wade about the book contents, producing parchment and quill to test his knowledge with ancient magical characters and phrases.
Over an hour later, Professor Murray had to concede that Wade, despite his youthful appearance, understood every nuance discussed.
Alchemy, among Hogwarts' toughest courses, saw equally stringent demands from Professor Murray. With fewer than ten students per class opting for alchemy, all were top-tier scholars. Even so, Murray believed that among his current seventh-years, even the best would stumble over one or two of these queries.
Alchemy demanded a genius's imagination, precision akin to clockwork, and meticulous attention to detail—traits seldom found united in one person.
But this was just the beginning...
Professor Murray suddenly realized he knew little about the student before him.
"Which year are you in, lad?" The old professor inquired with a genial smile.
"First year, sir," Wade replied.
Professor Murray fell silent once more. "I recall—Ancient Runes are a third-year elective?"
"Yes, sir." Wade endeavored to maintain composure, avoiding any hint of arrogance.
Professor Murray paid no heed to Wade's youthful appearance. Instead, he reminisced about his own introduction to alchemy at sixteen and the prodigious talents of figures like Dumbledore, Grindelwald, and Voldemort, who showcased early brilliance.
Deep in thought, Professor Murray regarded Wade with increasing admiration, his smile softening as he asked gently, "Your name? House?"
"Wade Gray, Ravenclaw," Wade replied, sensing a shift in Professor Murray's demeanor.
"Do you hold a particular fondness for alchemy, Wade?"
His tone had shifted markedly.
"Yes, professor." Wade's response was steadfast. "Alchemy is a profound field, wielding the power to reshape our world. I may spend my life immersed in its study."
"As a wizard, what are your thoughts on Muggle technological innovations?" Professor Murray inquired further.
The office's furnishings hinted at the answer he sought. This time, Wade paused, contemplating deeply before replying, "Muggle technology advances swiftly—tools evolve, communication quickens, and global impact deepens. Wizards must actively learn, adapt, and integrate, lest we fall behind."
It was a heartfelt sentiment.
Despite more radical ideas brewing within, Wade withheld them, fearing his standing with Professor Murray might sour, casting him into the shadow of "the next Dark Lord"—a fate he abhorred.
Professor Murray seemed satisfied with Wade's response. He smiled warmly, "I teach sixth and seventh years every Monday and Thursday. Should you have queries, my door is open. Maintain your passion for alchemy, and I'll gladly devote two hours weekly to your tutelage."
His words reserved, Professor Murray retrieved "Crafting Magical Items from Scratch" from his collection, lending it to Wade and scheduling their first tutoring session for Thursday. With that, Wade departed.
As he left, book in hand, Wade glanced through the window at the Black Lake beside the Forbidden Forest, recalling the figure he'd glimpsed earlier upon waking.
Presumably, that had been Professor Murray—silver-white hair and all...
Suddenly, Wade halted mid-step, scalp prickling, goosebumps erupting across his skin.
When had he seen that figure? After his arrival, meeting Professor Murray... ten minutes in between? How vexing! Fever had distorted his perception of time.
Regardless, ten minutes hardly sufficed for someone to traverse and find Wade. Apparition was forbidden at Hogwarts; Professor Murray, elderly with no hint of broom-flying prowess, couldn't have reached him so swiftly.
If not Professor Murray... nor Dumbledore... then who?
Perhaps he was overthinking. Harry Potter's first year at Hogwarts should have been serene... at least for typical students... yet unease washed over him in waves.
"What's amiss, Wade?" Professor Murray's voice interrupted.
The once kind and gentle tone now held an eerie undertone.
"Nothing," Wade responded, surprised at his calmness, his voice tinged with gratitude. "I merely recalled, Professor, how fortunate I was that you happened upon me this morning... Were you returning from outside at that time?"
"Certainly not." Professor Murray seemed unperturbed, explaining with a casual smile, "I reside off-campus. I enter via fireplace when needed; mine grants access to the Floo Network, sanctioned by the Ministry. This morning, I'd just reached my office when I heard Griffiths shouting in the corridor and found you."
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