Chapter 371: The Choice
Chapter 371: The Choice
Felix turned his head, avoiding the intense gaze of the Slytherin Witch, cleared his throat, and continued, "I've analyzed your weaknesses with the other professors, and there are two main issues. First, you don't know enough spells to handle various complex situations. For example, the magic flame—"
He paused, not continuing.
"The second issue is the lack of practical experience, or real combat. I'm not talking about the dueling classes where you draw your wands and prepare in advance. I mean how to handle sudden crises, which is related to your own experiences."
"For a time, Hogwarts had a tradition of students traveling for a year after graduation. It was like a few close friends traveling together to see the different magical customs of the world..."
"However, due to the Wizarding War and the recent tightening of policies by the Ministries of Magic in various countries, you now need to file a report and get permission from the local Ministry of Magic to visit a country. This has made such travels less popular."
Felix narrated this history, giving them a general impression.
"Over the next few months, as Classroom Seven becomes more complete, you will encounter simulated dangerous scenarios to increase your experience. Not just me, but other professors will also be here to guide you."
"Of course", Felix added, "Professor Moody may have other plans. He prefers to test you in real situations to see how you handle danger. You should be familiar with his character..."
Several students grimaced. Professor Moody's rough personality and his boldness in class were well-known. Hogwarts students had suffered quite a bit, with many having been the target of his curses.
However, one student, who wished to remain anonymous, mentioned that while it felt terrible to be on the receiving end of Moody's curses, it gave a strange sense of satisfaction to see him cast them on others...
"As potential champions", Felix raised his voice to refocus the students, "or as students selected to participate in exchanges and showcase Hogwarts' teaching achievements, you will have the opportunity to access many advanced spells. The most direct way is that the Restricted Section of the Library will be open to you."
"You just need to register, and you can read various advanced spellbooks."
The students began to discuss among themselves, their faces animated. Felix even heard someone mention "dark magic", and he raised an eyebrow.
"I should remind you that dark magic was forbidden in previous Triwizard Tournaments, and even for this one", he said uncertainly, "the Ministry of Magic is still in intense negotiations..."
"So, we might face dark magic?" Harry asked, surprised.
"No, that's not the case", Felix explained. "The Ministry of Magic's bottom line is that champions cannot use dark magic against each other. However, Durmstrang has proposed that during the tasks, it can be 'reasonably' used against non-human beings—such as powerful and lethal magical creatures."
"Beauxbatons and Ilvermorny agree. The current debate is over which dark magic spells will be allowed, and the Ministry of Magic is working overtime to compile a list."
"So, we can use dark magic?" Collins asked, "As long as it's on that list?"
"Perhaps the rules will allow it, but for Hogwarts students, no professor will provide guidance in this area", Felix said calmly. "I know some of you are familiar with dark magic, but we must consider the impact—using it openly will attract the attention of the Ministry of Magic and raise questions about Hogwarts' educational philosophy."
He shrugged. "The war ended only a few years ago, and most British wizards still deeply detest dark magic."
Collins looked at him provocatively. "So, as long as we're not caught, it's fine?"
Felix gazed at her and smiled slightly. "You're right, Miss Flee. Using dark magic won't affect the judges' scores. But in my opinion, it's not necessary and might even be counterproductive."
He looked at the group. "Many of you, especially the younger students, haven't realized the special treatment you'll receive over the next few months—access to the Hogwarts Library, and all professors will answer your questions beyond the textbooks, including advanced spells and magical theories."
"If I were you, I definitely wouldn't miss such a great opportunity. It will be beneficial for your future."
"But why do we need to learn so many complicated things? We won't use them after graduation", a student asked.
Felix looked at the others, who also seemed unconvinced. He shook his head, "I see this is indeed a question, so let me elaborate. During our time at school, we might all have the same doubt—"
"If a few years of superficial learning can make us live comfortably, why push ourselves to delve deeper into those complex and obscure spells and theories?"
"This is actually a very interesting question. Anyone have an answer?"
A Ravenclaw girl raised her hand playfully, "Professor, I know! I just love magic! I'm interested in it."
Felix smiled at her, "That's a great attitude."
"Learning magic can give us a significant status, allowing us to enter better companies, like Gringotts or the Ministry of Magic!" Roger Davies said.
"Good point. What else?"
"People will be afraid of you, respect you, and avoid provoking you", Collins Flee said coldly.
"True... anything else?"
"You can do what you love", Hermione said.
"Close, very close to my own answer", Felix said with a smile.
He scanned the room, his gaze passing over each of their eyes. "I can't give you the right answer because there is no single correct answer. I can only share my personal understanding."
"What is the use of delving deeper into magic, including those obscure magical theories?"
"In my view, it allows you to progress further in the path of magic than others, and it naturally gives you more choices."
"Do you want to study magic? Of course, you can quietly become a scholar, exploring the mysteries of magic and uncharted territories."
"Do you want to reach a high position and gain power? Besides having a sharp and clever mind, the power of magic is indispensable. At that time, magic will be your handy tool, helping you gain fame and influence."
"Or... money? That's not impossible either, but I suggest you choose the right branch of magic. Alchemy and Ancient Runes have great potential. If any of you are interested, you might consider joining the 'Future World' company after graduation."
Felix blinked and smiled at them.
"There's a lot more to say. Changing your appearance? Transfiguration can do that. Extending your life? Potions can do that. Traveling the world? Seeking adventure? Exploring treasures... or simply living a normal life."
"Of course, we might also imagine—" Felix lowered his eyes, "making the world revolve around your will, causing changes because of you."
The students fell silent.
Felix fiddled with his wand and said softly, "Indeed, for some people, like Headmaster Dumbledore, the problem has never been what he can do, but what he chooses to do."
"Becoming the Minister of Magic... or deciding which candy to buy in Hogsmeade... the latter might consume more of his thoughts."
"This highlights the importance of choice—choosing the life we want. The most straightforward example is that every year, some students receive more than one recommendation letter from professors, clearly giving them more options."
"Let's get back to the main topic and talk about something practical."
Felix raised his voice, "According to the latest information from the Headmaster, this year's Triwizard Tournament will be different from previous years. It will be conducted in teams, and the difficulty will be adjusted accordingly."
"Each school will select three students to form a team. After the three tasks, the school with the highest score will win the Triwizard Tournament trophy."
He looked at everyone, "Sixth and seventh-year students, you will be randomly grouped in the coming time to build teamwork. You might end up being teammates during the competition. As for fourth and fifth-year students, you have more flexibility and are not required to form teams."
As soon as he finished speaking, Harry, Ron, and Hermione immediately huddled together.
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(End of Chapter)
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