Chapter 856: On Merit
Chapter 856: On Merit
"It's really enviable. I feel like the difficulty of Ancient Runes has increased quite a bit. I can barely understand what Professor Babbling is teaching in class these days." Seana glanced at her deskmate, Albert, who had not been paying attention since the start of the lesson. She wondered what he was up to.
"Mr. Anderson, stay back after class," Professor Babbling called out as the students prepared to leave the Ancient Runes classroom.
The others turned to Albert with curious gazes, wondering why the professor had asked him to stay.
"It seems the advanced Ancient Runes class hasn't been what you expected. That's understandable, considering you've been auditing the class for a long time now," Professor Babbling said without a hint of anger at Albert's inattention. Instead, she spoke to him as a friend: "How is Isabelle's 'Guide to Ancient Runes' coming along?"
"It should be ready by Christmas," Albert replied.
"That's much faster than I anticipated," Professor Babbling murmured, impressed by Isabelle's efficiency.
"However, if we want to use the 'Guide to Ancient Runes' as a textbook for the subject, we'll still need to make some adjustments. We should simplify the content to make it more accessible and ensure that students can easily learn the basics and develop a solid foundation in Ancient Runes," Albert paused, reorganizing his thoughts before continuing, "It would be best to introduce Ancient Runes in the first year. Languages are something that should be started at a young age. Expecting students in their third year to suddenly grasp a complex and unfamiliar subject is unrealistic. It requires a significant amount of time and energy, which they likely won't have due to their already heavy course load."
A moment of silence followed as both parties acknowledged the truth—Dumbledore didn't expect students to master much from this class. Most witches and wizards struggled to translate even a few hundred-word article.
Albert was more curious about how Dumbledore and Crouch had managed to learn dozens of languages. Even if they hadn't achieved complete fluency, the fact that they could communicate in so many tongues was astonishing.
Based on his observations over the years, Albert concluded that witches and wizards weren't inherently more intelligent than Muggles. He attributed these mysteries to the unpredictable nature of the magical world.
"We can't expect too much. Not everyone is like you, able to effortlessly translate Ancient Runes at a glance," Professor Babbling said with a bitter smile. With Albert's proficiency in Ancient Runes, he no longer needed the advanced class. The course aimed to enable students to understand and read Ancient Runes, and even excellent graduates rarely achieved Albert's level of mastery.
"You should also be aware that Ancient Runes is more than just a language," Albert frowned, "Its most important aspects are being forgotten, and one day, people may treat it as nothing more than an ancient tongue."
"It seems you haven't given up on delving deeper into the knowledge of Ancient Runes. I look forward to the publication of your 'Book of Runes'," Professor Babbling said, looking at her student and recalling his words:
"Ancient Runes is not just a language. It still holds many secrets and is an integral part of ancient magic. Much has been forgotten, causing modern witches and wizards to be unable to comprehend it. They view ancient magic as powerful, mysterious, and impenetrable."
"If you need any assistance, don't hesitate to come to me. I'd be happy to help in any way I can," Professor Babbling offered with a smile.
Today, nine students attended the advanced Ancient Runes class.
It was quite a substantial number, in Professor Babbling's opinion. She recalled a time when there were only five students, and it was rare to find peers like Albert and Isabelle with whom she could engage in scholarly discussion.
Yes, peers.
Professor Babbling had never considered Albert a student, not after he had revealed his capabilities. She had even exempted him from most homework assignments, knowing they made little difference to him one way or the other.
Flexible education meant giving exceptional students the freedom to explore their interests.
However, Albert's passion for Ancient Runes wasn't as intense as he portrayed it to be. He was more interested in the ancient magic it held, the potential for fame, and the completion of his skill panel tasks.
Most importantly, Albert felt he should keep himself occupied. Documenting the knowledge he had gained from the skill panel and becoming a scribe of sorts was a worthwhile endeavor.
Ancient Runes presented an attractive option since many people didn't understand it. This meant his spells would be harder to decipher, and his magic would appear profound and inscrutable to others.
In the future, he could even assume titles like Master Runesmith, Expert, or Professor, and these titles would undoubtedly bring him numerous benefits. When the mood struck, he could even teach a class at Hogwarts.
"What did Professor Babbling want with you?"
During lunch, Seana asked curiously, "Did she keep you after class because you weren't paying attention in class? Are you in trouble?"
"It was about Isabelle's upcoming publication, the 'Guide to Ancient Runes'," Albert replied in a lowered voice, "Professor Babbling is also providing suggestions to make Ancient Runes more systematic and easier to learn. We plan to use the 'Guide to Ancient Runes' to replace the 'Introduction to Ancient Runes' as the textbook for third-year students."
"The 'Guide to Ancient Runes'? You're planning to publish a book to replace the current textbook for third-year students?" Seana's eyes glazed over as she spoke, remembering Albert's intention to publish a book on Dark Magic Defense. A sense of defeat welled up within her. They truly lived in different worlds.
"When the 'Guide to Ancient Runes' is published, I'll definitely buy a copy," Seana said, her smile stiff, "Just don't make it too expensive."
"It should be priced around two galleons," Albert replied.
"What's this about two galleons?" Fred and George asked, sauntering over with mischievous grins.
"The book's price," Albert clarified.
"So, you're planning to publish that book on Dark Magic Defense after graduation?"
"No, I intend to publish that one after graduation," Albert explained, "We weren't talking about that just now."
"Have you guys heard?" Lee Jordan approached them in a hurry, sharing the latest gossip, "For some reason, there's a rumor going around that the Hogwarts Champion has already been decided, and it's you, Albert!"
"How did that happen?" Albert frowned. Some things were better left veiled to avoid unnecessary trouble.
Even if everyone knew Albert would become the Hogwarts Champion, it shouldn't be stated outright. The selection process was meant to be relatively fair, with every student who turned seventeen having the opportunity to participate and compete for the title.
In fact, Hogwarts provided a level playing field, and Albert's eventual selection as the Champion could be attributed to his superior abilities compared to his peers, not any predetermined decision.
"I have no idea. Some idiot started spreading that rumor around the castle this morning for some reason, and people actually believed it." Lee Jordan had no idea who the fool was that started the rumor, and he was annoyed that people were gullible enough to fall for it.
Albert could easily become the Hogwarts Champion based on his abilities alone; he didn't need any so-called "insider decision."
"Anyone with a clear head would know that you're the most suitable candidate for the Champion," Fred consoled. "I bet most of the girls in Hogwarts are hoping that you'll be the one. After all, you've got those impressive battle records, you've participated in several international competitions, and you easily won the championship. You'll surely be able to defeat the Champions from the other two schools and bring glory to Hogwarts."
"The key issue here is the 'insider decision,'" George reminded them.
"Yeah, some idiots, blinded by jealousy, will think that there's some sort of conspiracy behind Albert becoming the Champion," Lee Jordan agreed, feeling that whoever started the rumor had malicious intentions.
During their Dark Arts Defense class in the afternoon, Albert finally understood what had happened. Cedric Diggory approached him and confessed that he had inadvertently caused the rumor.
It turned out that Cedric's friends believed he was more than qualified to compete for the position of Hogwarts Champion. However, Cedric had mentioned that if Albert participated in the Triwizard Tournament, the other students wouldn't stand a chance.
Cedric was just stating a fact, but it could be misinterpreted by others.
And so, everything stemmed from jealousy. After all, Albert had already gained fame during the summer break.
"Don't worry about it. Once someone becomes famous, trouble will find its way to them, whether they like it or not," Albert said with a helpless smile. He patted Cedric's shoulder and continued, "Before the Champion is selected, everyone has a fair chance to compete. Also, I have a feeling that this Triwizard Tournament might not be as peaceful as expected."
"You've made a prophecy, and you know what I mean," Cedric said, his eyes widening as he stared at Albert.
"I took a sneaky peek, and the result was quite unexpected. You can look forward to the selection of the Champions," Albert said with a smile. He greeted others along the way and then walked into the Dark Arts Defense classroom.
"What did he say to you?"
"To be honest, I would prefer for him to be the one," Cedric said. "But I'll give it a try anyway. Albert is right; before the Hogwarts Champion is selected, everyone has a chance."
Soon after, Moody walked into the classroom with difficulty, leaning on his cane. He scanned the classroom with his magical eye. "I received a letter from Professor Lupin, who briefed me on this class."
"To be honest, I'm surprised," Moody said. "With you guys having had five different professors for this subject, it's impressive that so many of you passed the O.W.Ls exam for this course."
The students exchanged glances and smiled proudly.
"You've just finished reading 'Dark Forces: A Guide to Self-Protection.' To be honest, I'm not a big fan of that book; the content is just so-so. In my opinion, you lack knowledge about dealing with spells. Therefore, I intend to teach you how to counter Dark Magic."
The students looked excited, finally having a reliable professor.
"Put away your textbooks; you won't be needing them today," Moody said as he took out the roll book and started taking attendance. His eyes landed on a particular name. "It seems we have a celebrity in our class. Albert Anderson, stand up and let me see who you are."
Everyone turned to look at Albert, who stood up under their gaze.
"Anderson, tell me, what should one do when faced with Dark Magic?" Moody put down the roll book and scrutinized Albert with his magical eye, his right hand slightly raised as he spoke.
"One should always stay vigilant, sir," Albert replied.
As Albert answered, Moody had already raised his wand without anyone noticing. A streak of red light flew towards Albert without warning.
"Look out!"
Someone screamed, but just as the red light was about to hit Albert, he casually flicked his hand to the side, as if swatting away a fly. The spell was deflected, and an unfortunate student sitting nearby cried out in pain as the spell hit him instead.
The sudden turn of events stunned the entire class. Before they could react, they saw Moody's wand fly out of his hand, drawing an elegant arc in the air before it was caught by Albert.
The students stared, dumbfounded, at Albert holding Moody's wand, and then at Moody, who had been disarmed. Their minds were struggling to process what had just happened.
What just transpired?
The voice of the unlucky student who had been hit by the spell snapped them back to reality.
"Very good, excellent, and well-deserved," Moody said, taking a moment to catch his breath. "To be honest, other professors told me that they thought you were highly likely to be chosen as the Hogwarts Champion, but I didn't quite believe it. With your skills, I believe none of the Champions from the other schools would stand a chance in the Triwizard Tournament."
Scattered applause broke out in the classroom, gradually growing into a unified round of applause, with only a few Slytherin students refraining from joining in. The students from the other houses were cheering for Albert.
Albert's extra lessons in Dark Magic Defense last semester had paid off.
Especially in that lightning-fast exchange, while everyone else was still processing what had happened, Albert had not only blocked Professor Moody's surprise attack but had also successfully disarmed him. It was incredibly cool.
After the applause died down, Moody took his wand back from a student in the front row and said to Albert, "You might consider becoming an Auror after graduation. With your grades and skills, you'll surely pass the Auror examination with the fastest speed possible. Before that, you can learn some experience in dealing with Dark Magic and Dark Wizards from my class. Alright, take your seat."
"I'll give it serious thought," Albert replied.
Albert then lightly waved his wand, dispelling the Knot Curse from the unfortunate Roger Davies and apologizing to him.
"It's not your fault; I was just unlucky," Roger Davies muttered.
"Sir, I'm curious. How did Anderson deflect the spell?" asked a Hufflepuff boy, glancing at the unlucky Roger, who was still untangling himself.
"Anderson used the Iron Armor Charm to divert my Knot Curse," Moody said, turning his magical eye to stare at Albert. "Anderson used wandless magic. To be honest, this technique is quite advanced for your level; only highly skilled wizards can master it."
"Can you use wandless magic, sir?" Lee Jordan asked, raising his hand.
"I can manage it, but I usually don't risk using it in confrontations with enemies because it's like gambling with your life," Moody said, turning away his gaze and clapping his big hands to quiet the whispering students. "I don't expect you to be half as good as Anderson, but at least pay attention in my class. Alright, back to the topic—as sixth-years, you can now be introduced to some illegal dark curses."
"In my opinion, the earlier you learn about the dark forces you'll have to face, the better.
"What if you've never seen something before? How can you protect yourself from it?" Moody swept the classroom with his magical eye. "Now, who can tell me what to do if a wizard is about to cast an illegal spell on you?"
The students in the classroom looked at each other, and no one answered. Finally, Moody directed his gaze at Albert.
"Anderson, tell me what you would do!"
"Strike first and interrupt their spell," Albert replied without hesitation. "If I don't have time, then I'll dodge immediately or create an obstacle to block the spell."
"Very good, I'm glad to hear that you're not suggesting the use of the Iron Armor Charm. Many dark spells cannot be blocked by that charm. While it is indeed a useful defensive spell that can effectively shield against many attacks, it is best not to take risks when faced with unknown magic." Moody shouted at the other students, "Remember, criminals won't tell you their plans, nor will they foolishly cast spells at you. If you're quick enough, interrupt their casting. Of course, Anderson here might be fast enough, but I don't expect any of you to be as fast as him, so dodging unknown spells is your best option. If there's a sturdy obstacle nearby, use it to block the spell or take cover behind it!"
"Usually, you can't expect criminals to engage in a fair duel with you. They will stop at nothing to take you down or even kill you. This is also one of the reasons why Aurors need to master the skills of 'Concealment and Disguise,' to avoid being identified and targeted, falling into a disadvantageous position. In the struggle against these criminals, one mistake can be costly." He pointed to his eye and leg, "Of course, I'm not encouraging you to sneak attack your classmates. That would be the most despicable and cowardly act... Don't get the wrong idea here."
The students in the classroom began to whisper among themselves, surprised that Professor Moody would discuss such topics in class.
"Now, who can tell me which illegal curses will incur the harshest penalties from the Ministry of Magic?" Moody asked in a hoarse voice. "Don't expect Anderson to answer everything. Don't tell me no one else knows."
"The Imperius Curse, Cruciatus Curse, and Avada Kedavra," George recited as if he were reciting an article. "They are known as the Unforgivable Curses, and using any of them on a human will result in a life sentence in Azkaban."
"Indeed, as Mr. Weasley said, the Imperius Curse, Cruciatus Curse, and Avada Kedavra are considered the three Unforgivable Curses. They are extremely evil and cruel forms of dark magic. Anyone who casts them on another person will likely spend the rest of their lives in Azkaban. However, don't rely on the Ministry of Magic's laws to scare off those criminals. Don't even try to use the Iron Armor Charm to block the Unforgivable Curses." Moody suddenly shouted, "Your best bet is to always stay vigilant and try to avoid getting hit."
Once again, Moody's shout startled the class.
"What is it, Anderson?" Moody turned his attention to Albert, who had raised his hand. The other students followed suit, looking at Albert.
"Sir, is there a way to tell if someone has been Imperiused?" Albert asked.
"Unfortunately, no." Moody shook his head. "Some sophisticated versions of the Imperius Curse are hard to detect."
"Is there a way to dispel the Imperius Curse cast on someone else?" Albert persisted, not satisfied with this answer.
"If you can find a solution to the Imperius Curse, the Ministry of Magic will surely bestow upon you another Order of Merlin, First Class," Moody said, his scarred face twisting strangely as he recalled, "Many years ago, numerous witches and wizards were controlled by the Imperius Curse, and it was difficult to distinguish who was acting under duress and who was acting of their own volition."
"So, how can those affected by the Imperius Curse break free from its control?" Albert inquired further.
"Most of the time, the curse's effects will weaken over time." Moody seemed pleased with Albert's questions and even offered him a friendly smile. "The affected wizard will gradually develop resistance to the Imperius Curse and eventually break free from its control, but it's not an easy task."
"The Imperius Curse can be resisted, but it requires tremendous willpower, and not everyone can do it. Your best bet is to stay vigilant and avoid getting hit by it." He suddenly shouted again, startling the class once more.
"What about the Cruciatus Curse, sir? What kind of curse is that?" With Albert taking the lead, the others joined in with their questions.
"Undoubtedly, the Cruciatus Curse is also an extremely evil curse, and there is no defense against it. Perhaps the Iron Armor Charm can mitigate some of its effects, but it's not very effective." Moody's face now wore a cruel smile. "It is said that He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named favored using it to torture people, and this curse became quite popular because of that."
"Anyone hit by the Cruciatus Curse will experience excruciating pain throughout their body, a pain so intense that they wish for death." Moody seemed to recall some unpleasant memories. "You wouldn't want to experience that kind of agony. It's considered an evil form of dark magic for a good reason."
"Of course, the Cruciatus Curse requires a strong magical power to cast. Typically, only very evil wizards can use it effectively, so the effect is rather average when cast by ordinary witches and wizards. But let me warn you, don't even think about using it, let alone actually casting it, unless you want to spend the rest of your life in prison." Moody's gaze fell on the Slytherin students as he spoke, "Am I clear?"
"Yes, sir," everyone replied in unison.
"I hope you won't forget." Moody muttered, "Alright, let's move on to the last one, which is also the most powerful curse of all. Avada Kedavra... the Killing Curse."
Upon hearing this, many students became uneasy, clearly aware of the deadly nature of the Avada Kedavra curse.
Albert recalled that he had used it himself, although Smith had ultimately been killed by the Acromantula.
"The Avada Kedavra curse has a distinct feature: a flash of bright green light when cast.
"There is no counter-curse, no way to block it. Your best option is to not get hit or use a sturdy obstacle to intercept it, but be warned that the Killing Curse will cause severe damage to such objects. Generally, if someone is about to cast Avada Kedavra on you, my advice is to dodge and not risk your life."
"Sir, I heard that Harry Potter survived the Avada Kedavra curse," Albert asked, raising his hand.
"Yes, but no one knows how he did it, and Potter himself probably doesn't know either, so don't waste your time trying to figure it out." Moody continued, "The Killing Curse requires a strong magical foundation. Many witches and wizards are unable to cast it effectively. Even if you were to point your wand at me and utter those words, I doubt it would do more than land me in St. Mungo's Hospital for Magical Maladies and Injuries for half a year. Of course, except for Anderson here."
Everyone burst into laughter.
"I hope you fully understand what the worst-case scenario is and how to deal with it. Of course, it's best to avoid such situations altogether. Always stay vigilant." He shouted again, startling the class yet again.
(End of Chapter)
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