Chapter 13: Necessary Changes

As Harry conveyed his observations, Ron and Hermione found it quite perplexing to match their impression of the stoic Sherlock Forester, with the near-absurd vision of him delighting in something as mundane as ice cream.

"Maybe he just passed by and stopped for a moment to think about something else? Somehow, I don't see him getting excited over ice cream, you know that's for kids.." conjectured Ron.

"You're probably right, but it definitely looked funny" Harry conceded, not dwelling excessively on the subject.

Originally, the trio had intended to split from the group and go shopping by themselves, but upon unexpectedly running into Sherlock, the Weasley couple appeared rather keen on spending more time with him, thus leading the three children to trail behind the others on their way to the Flourish and Blotts bookstore.

Arthur Weasley began reminiscing as they strolled down the bustling streets of Diagon Alley, "You know, following your departure from the Auror office, Kingsley was full of regret for some time. He mentioned that you were among the most promising new talents, slated for an imminent promotion within the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. Your future could've indeed been bright there" his voice full of lament.

Nevertheless, he instantly brightened up, adding, "But then, securing a teaching position at Hogwarts is no less of a grand opportunity. The professors there are among the finest wizards and witches in the magical world. Being part of that esteemed cohort, you're bound to enhance your magical prowess, not to mention it looks excellent on your resume, regardless where you want to apply." he concluded optimistically.

"Indeed, so it seems." replied Sherlock, his response significantly more succinct than Arthur's lengthy monologue. Yet, this didn't seem to discourage Arthur's infectious enthusiasm for conversation.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Weasley was animatedly recounting Sherlock's "striking" academic history to the young wizards, all gathered attentively around her.

"Take Professor Forester as your ole model, kids - during his time as a student at Hogwarts he achieved the top 'O' grades in every single subject of the final exam. And his O.W.L. exams too showcased top-notch performances, earning him twelve 'Os'. In his seventh year at the school, he was even appointed as the Head Boy at Hogwarts and when..."

Fred and George, impatient to get more first-hand information, interrupted their mother's monologue with an unusual hint of curiosity in their voices, "Mum, why do you and Dad hold this Professor Forester in such high regard? Who is he really?"

As the twins asked this, Harry, Ron, and Hermione tuned in all the more keenly, hoping to uncover some tantalizing details. Seeing Fred's question unfold, Mrs. Weasley's upbeat demeanor faltered slightly, replaced by an air of nostalgia. Her gaze fell upon the nearby Sherlock, her eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and compassion. "Well, his mother shared a close bond with your father and me."

Intrigued by their mother's evident fondness for Sherlock, the twins were eager to delve further. But before they could continue their investigation, Mrs. Weasley, adopting a stern tone, dampened their curiosity, "This involves grown-up matters! I expect you to give Sherlock the same respect you accord to your own flesh and blood! Is that clear?" Despite her stern tone, the twins merely shrugged it off nonchalantly.

"We heard you loud~ and~ clear~, mum~." They chimed in unison, "We'll respect him just like we respect Percy!"

Sherlock and Arthur, who were walking ahead, didn't notice the exchange between Mrs. Weasley and the younger Weasley wizards. As they stepped into Flourish and Blotts the young wizards dispersed, each hunting for textbooks for their upcoming school term. Due to their limited budget, most of the Weasley children veered towards the second-hand book section, considering new textbooks as luxury items.

Observing the shelves, Arthur posed a question to Sherlock, "I noticed the Defense Against the Dark Arts textbooks are the same as they were before. Why didn't pick some of your own books as textbooks, at least for the upper years?"

This query threw Sherlock into a quandary. The original owner had published two highly reputed publications pertaining to Defense Against the Dark Arts at a very tender age. The data contained in these books was far too advanced for the current Sherlock's knowledge. If he used them as textbooks, and then failed to explain the underlying principles, he'd draw suspicion upon him and damage his public image. Especially after Lockhart has just been exposed, people might be quick to accuse him of not writing the books himself.

"I strongly believe my work is still too immature to be considered for inclusion as academic content; it might potentially obstruct the students' learning."

Arthur appeared taken aback by Sherlock's unexpected humility and exclaimed, "We last met nearly two years ago, but there's indeed a noticeable transformation in you. As for your books, there's no need for restraint, Sherlock. Both of your works hold their ground when compared to others in Defense Against the Dark Arts, that's not just me saying, I even heard Kingsley talk about them to Moody."

Sherlock hid his surprise at being caught off guard, maintaining his facade while responding, "I assure you, it's not an act of modesty; rather I have a meticulous expectation for my work."

"Oh, I understand, I really do," repeated Arthur, his knowing smile indicated that he sensed some misunderstanding, given that most people shy away from open praise. Sherlock decided to not push the matter and choose to stay silent, deeply contemplative.

Considering the existence of legilimency in the wizarding world, he had always been wary of inadvertently revealing his true nature to other wizards, present or future. In the past, he had convincingly portrayed a characteristic aloofness, in line with the original owner. But, maintaining this pretense for an indefinite duration might leave an irreversible imprint on him, which was something he wanted to avoid at all costs, aside from it simply being very laborious and annoying to uphold such a facade at all times.

He realized the need to gradually modify his stern, cold demeanor and replace the rigid impression others held of him. Naturally, this changing of perception had to be a slow and steady process. A drastic character deviation would only rouse suspicion, particularly in the wizarding world, where things were not always as they seemed and potions that could change a person's appearence existed. As the original plot revealed, such potions could indeed be used to impersonate a Hogwarts professor.

Thus, Sherlock decided to subtly transition changes into his personality, as well as the image people had of him. His newfound modesty was a testament to this. Sherlock's former rigid character would have struggled with this display, but owing to their two-year hiatus, his acquaintances would be more accepting of his changed ways.

As Sherlock was grappling with these thoughts, a brash, offensive voice boomed from nearby, "Ah, if it isn't good old Arthur Weasley. I see you're considering new textbooks for the brood this time. Has the Ministry finally decided to offer you a raise?"