Chapter 19: Flamel

As dinnertime neared, Salim stepped out of Filch's office. He had gone straight to Filch after lunch and had spent the afternoon in his small room surrounded by seafood. Two main subjects occupied his mind: firstly, Filch's current physical state, and secondly, the legendary "Marauder's Map."

To begin with, Filch's current condition was surprisingly good, particularly in terms of his spirits. He no longer seemed to care about those mischievous Gryffindor students. Having been a squib for half his life, he was on the verge of becoming a true wizard.

Naturally, he had more important matters to attend to than the antics of troublemaking students. Filch was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his own wand, an anticipation that wouldn't be fulfilled until the next semester.

He had allowed himself a rare luxury—commissioning a custom wand from a wandmaker. On the last Hogsmeade Day, Filch had visited the village and struck a deal with a wandmaker. Ordinary wands were no longer suitable for him, given that Snape had assessed Filch's magical power to be stronger than that of many Aurors.

Salim felt a slight unease. He was unsure of the potential impact of this situation and its consequences. Having spent most of his life as a Squib at Hogwarts, Filch had watched young wizards squander their talents and time, while he remained a Squib yearning to be a wizard. How did this warped emotion affect a person? Moreover, while some people might wish to do evil, they might lack the power to do so.

However, for the time being, things seemed to be fine with Filch. Regardless of how this situation evolved, the headmaster, Dumbledore, could not ignore it. After all, he was the headmaster.

Additionally, the potion in question had been researched, improved, and brewed by Snape. How much of a connection could Salim possibly have with it?

Putting aside this tangled situation, Salim was quite content with his achievements for the day. He had obtained the Marauder's Map, which would make navigating the school much easier in the future.

As Salim entered the dining hall, he noticed that several people were already eating. The Gryffindor trio—Neville, Harry, Ron, and Hermione—were absent. They were likely either at Hagrid's place or in the library, searching for information about Nicolas Flamel.

When they failed to find the information, they would surely seek Salim's assistance. Salim wasn't in the mood to deal with these Gryffindors.

"How did the afternoon go?" Salim asked as he sat down next to Draco, using his fork to pick at a pork chop.

"I believe I've discovered the sensation you mentioned," Draco said, deep in thought. He struggled to find the right words to describe it.

"The sensation of casting a spell effortlessly with just a thought?"

"Yes, exactly!" Draco nodded enthusiastically.

"Congratulations are in order then." Salim raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. "You're getting the hang of silent casting, especially with the Disarming Spell."

Salim's surprise was genuine; Draco hadn't been practising the Disarming Spell for long, and already he was close to mastering silent casting—a commendable feat.

"It's quite an achievement. I must master silent casting of the Disarming Curse before returning home. My father will be astonished," Draco exclaimed. "What do you think he might reward me with?"

"That's your father, not mine. How could I possibly know what kind of reward he'd give you?" Salim replied, rolling his eyes. He then resumed cutting into his pork chop, which, after observing that it was fully cooked, he now ate with confidence.

"Oh, right! Registration is tomorrow," Draco interjected, nodding towards the door. "Do you think that scarred face will remain at the school?"

Salim glanced at the Gryffindor trio heading towards their table and replied indifferently. He advised Draco to focus on himself rather than worrying about whether they'd stay or leave. Draco didn't have any major issues, but he had a penchant for showing off, and those who looked down on him were just as likely to retaliate.

"Are you itching for a confrontation? Do you have a serious conflict with them? Instead of picking fights, you should spend your time practising your spells," Salim suggested, wondering whether letting them fight it out might help them blow off steam.

After dinner, Salim and Draco made their way to the small classroom. Draco wanted Salim's guidance, while Salim was waiting for Hermione to return a book.

They had barely been in the classroom for five minutes when four Gryffindors entered—the trio and one more. Draco regarded Harry and Ron with disdain but said nothing.

As they entered, they exchanged looks before Hermione spoke up.

"Salim, we need to ask you about Nico..."

"Nicolas?" For some reason, Salim felt an urge to continue. His hands showed signs of restlessness.

"Huh?" The trio exchanged puzzled looks, not understanding what Salim was referring to.

"Hehe, don't worry. You want to ask about Nicolas."

All three nodded in agreement.

"I do know Nicolas Flamel. He's a widely known wizard; even Muggles are familiar with his name."

"But we spent the whole afternoon searching the library and found no information about him," Hermione said, her frustration evident. It was the first time she had left the library empty-handed.

"It seems the books you were looking through are all contemporary. Naturally, you wouldn't find any information about Nicolas there," Salim explained. He couldn't help but think they were all heading in the wrong direction, and it would be a miracle if they managed to find anything.

"Nicolas Flamel. What's the first thing that comes to mind when you hear that name?" Salim gestured toward Draco.

"The Philosopher's Stone," Draco sneered at the Gryffindor group. "What? Going for the whole Sorcerer's Stone angle, are you guys?"

"Alright, alright," Salim interjected quickly, trying to prevent another argument. "The Philosopher's Stone is a renowned alchemical creation. With it, one gains both gold and immortality. Nicolas Flamel and his wife have lived for over six hundred years due to it. This is the Philosopher's Stone."

Hearing about the incredible powers of the Philosopher's Stone left several people in a state of bewilderment.

"Yeah, the Philosopher's Stone. Who wouldn't desire it?" Salim frowned at Ronald, who had muttered something under his breath.

"Remember when Snape tried to steal it?" Harry suddenly put the pieces together. "He injured his leg on Halloween, probably from Fluffy, and he was attempting to get past that trapdoor."

"It's Professor Snape, and you should at least show some respect for a teacher," Salim scolded Harry.

Ignoring the comment, Harry continued, "We should inform Dumbledore about this!"

"Wait, Harry! We shouldn't act too hastily..."

Clapping his hands, Salim garnered the attention of those present. "I think I've got it. You suspect that Professor Snape is attempting to steal the Philosopher's Stone, right? I have to ask, when will you Gryffindors start using your brains?"

Initially, Salim had been unsure about his role in these "storylines" –

Whether to actively participate or passively observe. However, he soon realized that he wasn't bound by the fate of Harry Potter or the task of defeating Voldemort. Was he merely a bystander? Salim found that idea unacceptable. Since he was here, he believed he should leave a mark. Thus, he decided to act as he pleased, as long as it didn't lead to his own demise.

"Do you have any idea how big the Philosopher's Stone is? It's no larger than your fist." Salim compared it to his own hand. "For something so significant, would you feel comfortable leaving it lying around, just like that? Wouldn't Dumbledore prefer to carry it with him? Why not conceal it somewhere within the school?" The individuals Salim addressed were left speechless.

Having Dumbledore in possession of it was undoubtedly safer. However, this approach would leave the now-helpless Voldemort with nothing to play with, and this wasn't Dumbledore's intent.

Using the Philosopher's Stone as an irresistible lure for Voldemort, to observe his current state, estimate his return to the wizarding world, and simultaneously train Potter – that likely aligned with Dumbledore's strategy.

"Carrying it on one's person isn't safe. What if it's dropped or stolen?" Ronald regarded Salim with suspicion, distrusting all Slytherins.

"Do you think Dumbledore is like you? Do you believe carrying the Philosopher's Stone means tucking it in your pocket?" Salim looked at Ronald incredulously.

It was acceptable for young children to be unaware of certain things. Even a Muggle-born wizard might make such an oversight. However, the Weasley family was well-versed in magical practices. They were wizards, after all, and were familiar with Extension Charms that allowed bags and containers to hold various items.

"Doesn't the Weasley family have containers that can hold items? Ones that use the Untraceable Extension Charm? Even if they don't, you must have heard of it, right?"

"Hmph! Their shabby house only consists of walls and floors. How could they know about that?" Draco seized the chance to mock Ronald.

Ronald's face turned as red as his hair. Previously, whenever Draco insulted Ronald's family by calling them "poor," he always reacted strongly. Clearly, Draco had hit a sensitive spot.

"Do you understand now? Even if the headmaster doesn't carry it himself, but rather keeps it within the school, it's not your concern. Whether it's Professor Snape, Quirrell, or even Professor McGonagall – whoever might possess the Sorcerer's Stone or be attempting to steal it – that has nothing to do with us first-years. Do you get it?" Salim jeered at Harry, primarily targeting the carefree bear who seemed unaware of his own weight.

"But someone is trying to steal the Philosopher's Stone! We can't just ignore it," Harry protested, sticking his neck out.

Salim chuckled, unable to contain his amusement.

"Alright, then what's your plan? Hmm? Inform a professor?" Salim crossed his arms, looking at Harry. "Let me make this very clear, Harry. When you mention the Philosopher's Stone to any professor, they'll likely be taken aback.

Except, of course, for our headmaster, who might dock your points or even confine you. And I'm guessing, no matter how naive you are, you'd never approach Professor Snape.

Your best bet is probably Professor McGonagall. When you bring up the Philosopher's Stone to her, if she's holding a book, she'll probably drop it. Then she'll question how you know about it and assure you that the Sorcerer's Stone is secure, so you needn't worry."

Salim's description was accurate, reminiscent of Professor McGonagall's reactions. After all, he had watched the movies multiple times.

Harry and the others pondered the scenario. Going to Professor McGonagall did indeed seem to lead to that particular outcome.

"Understood? The professors will dismiss you. So, what's your plan? Are you going to safeguard the Philosopher's Stone by yourself?" Salim grinned slyly. "You're just asking for trouble!"

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