Chương 85: 85
Chapter 85: Three Broomsticks
The discussion about house-elves ceased as Hagrid approached with a Thestral-drawn carriage through the morning mist.
"Hello, Hagrid, thank you for arranging the carriage," Professor Murray greeted warmly.
"No problem at all, Professor!" Hagrid beamed. "Always happy to help, young Wade."
He bent down to address Wade.
"Good morning, Mr. Hagrid," Wade replied, looking up.
Hagrid's gray eyes, initially reserved in impression, now solidified.
"Oh, you're... you're Wade from Ravenclaw, right? Harry mentioned you..." Hagrid looked at Wade curiously, then puzzled, "You're only a first-year?"
He glanced between Wade and Professor Murray, clearly perplexed.
While Professor Murray smiled, he stated firmly, "Wade is my student, and I'm taking him to Hogsmeade for alchemy practice."
Hagrid scratched his head, unsure about the concept of alchemy trips to Hogsmeade. Being only a third-year dropout, he didn't fully grasp the intricacies beyond basic magic. What did one need to learn alchemy outside school?
After a brief hesitation, Hagrid decided not to delve into it further. He patted the Thestral's neck soothingly, murmured something to it, and said, "Professor Murray, Wade, hop into the carriage. It'll take you to Hogsmeade. I'll bring you back after you're done."
"Thank you, Hagrid."
Professor Murray nodded gratefully, boarded the carriage first, and gestured, "Your turn, Wade."
Once settled, they set off through the thin mist and morning light, the carriage creaking as it left the school grounds. Behind them, Hagrid strained to close the massive oak doors.
Thestrals occasionally spread their black wings as if preparing to fly, but they remained eerily quiet on the path.
"Do you see Thestrals?" Professor Murray suddenly asked, noticing Wade's gaze.
"Yes."
"Who did you see die?" Professor Murray inquired, quickly adding, "If you don't wish to discuss it, you don't have to answer."
"...It was a Muggle friend," Wade replied after a pause. "Many years ago, he fell ill and passed away... I witnessed it happen, saw his parents' anguish and helplessness, but there was nothing I could do..."
His eyes darkened, haunted by memories of that sorrowful time.
Professor Murray comfortingly patted his back. "I understand—losing a friend is like losing a part of yourself. Time heals, though... Perhaps your friend's parents have moved forward, found solace, maybe even welcomed a new child."
"I hope so..." Wade murmured distractedly. "I truly hope so..."
In silence, the carriage continued, and Hogsmeade gradually emerged from the mist.
Since it wasn't a Hogsmeade weekend, the small village appeared tranquil, with only a few wizards in robes strolling the streets. In the distance stood the Three Broomsticks pub.
Wade stepped off the carriage, glancing back.
"Go ahead, kid—I'll be in shortly," Professor Murray said from within. "If all goes well, I won't need to intervene. But if the fellow is tardy, don't hesitate to act—just a werewolf... I'll introduce you to a more suitable agent."
The older man's protective words amused Wade. He nodded, smiling, "Of course, Professor. I'll remember that."
As he pushed open the door, wind chimes tinkled. Inside, the tavern was bright with early morning light, and two wizards, possibly recovering from a night of revelry, slept at a nearby table.
A graceful lady attended the bar, wiping tables with a rag. Upon hearing the door, she greeted with a warm smile, though she looked surprised to see a student not during Hogsmeade weekend.
"Child, it's not Hogsmeade weekend today, right? Did you sneak out of school?" She asked seriously as she approached.
"I have an arranged meeting here with my professor's approval," Wade explained, spotting the wizard seated in the corner. "Excuse me, ma'am, could I have a non-alcoholic drink?"
With that, he headed toward the corner.
Remus Lupin appeared more weathered and older than Wade had imagined, a testament to the years of hardship he must have endured. As Wade approached, Lupin's calm demeanor faltered into visible surprise.
"You... you're..."
"Wade Grey." Wade extended his hand. "My father might have mentioned me to you?"
"Yes, he did..." Lupin shook Wade's hand, clearly thrown off. "He mentioned you needed assistance, but I assumed... um... I thought you'd be older..."
"I understand. Many expect first-year students to know very little," Wade replied, choosing a high chair at the bar. Once seated, his feet dangled in the air.
Leaning on the chair, Wade looked at Lupin casually. "Allow me to reintroduce myself. I'm Wade Grey, inventor of the Friendship Book, a first-year at Hogwarts. As you may know, this invention has brought considerable returns. I plan to further collaborate with Aslan Magic Workshop—oh, thank you, ma'am."
"Enjoy," tavern owner Madam Rosmerta smiled, placing a glass of butterbeer on Wade's table before addressing Lupin and then leaving.
After thanking her, Wade looked at the drink's creamy foam and golden hue, momentarily silent.
—Butterbeer is non-alcoholic?
Then what knocked him out last time? Really just two chocolates with alcohol?
—Impossible! Absolutely impossible! Butterbeer must contain alcohol, otherwise why call it beer?
Perhaps the lady misheard his order.
Wade refocused, recalling his purpose: "...So, I require an agent to represent me in dealings with Aslan Magic Workshop. Additionally, as my learning far surpasses current school teachings, I seek a private magic tutor."
Lupin considered the scope: "...Interested in learning the Patronus Charm? And Animagus transformation?"
"Beyond those," Wade affirmed. "Including the Disillusionment Charm, Apparition, memory charms, and any other magic I've yet to grasp."
Lupin paused briefly. "Including dark magic?"
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