86

Chapter 86: Contract, Galleon

Wade had already anticipated this question and asked bluntly, "Do you have knowledge of dark magic?"

"...to some extent," Lupin hesitated briefly but chose honesty.

Wade nodded thoughtfully. "I've read in books that during the Wizarding War, the Ministry authorized Aurors to use Unforgivable Curses against Death Eaters. It suggests that the intent behind the use of dark magic can vary—from defense to malevolence. It's the wielder's intent that defines its nature."

"The reason dark magic is deemed evil lies in its corruptive effect on the user," Lupin clarified quickly, mindful of the impression he might give. "It's also exceedingly perilous."

"Understood," Wade acknowledged. "If you take on this role, you'll be my teacher. If you believe learning dark magic isn't advisable, then I won't insist on it."

Lupin visibly relaxed, a small smile forming.

He had assumed a young prodigy would be haughty, yet Wade appeared remarkably level-headed and open to differing viewpoints. It was a promising start.

At that moment, Professor Murray entered the tavern. He scanned the room, his gaze passing over Wade and Lupin without acknowledgment, then settled at a nearby table where he ordered a glass of mead.

"If I accept this role, what are the next steps?" Lupin inquired. "I typically reside at Hogsmeade Village; how will our lessons be conducted?"

"We'll discuss that later," Wade replied, retrieving a parchment scroll from his pocket and laying it on the table. "First, review this contract. If the terms are agreeable to you, sign it. That will formalize our agreement."

Lupin regarded the document seriously, unfolding it to read.

The contract was straightforward: it outlined their previous discussions and stipulated that the agent (Lupin) would safeguard Wade's interests, maintain confidentiality, refrain from causing harm, assist in acquiring alchemical materials and magical items, and as a tutor, develop lesson plans and ensure student safety during magical instruction.

Lupin inwardly nodded in agreement—these terms were reasonable.

However, when he reached the section detailing compensation, Lupin couldn't help but be startled, wondering if there was a mistake.

"A base salary of 30 Galleons per week?" He exclaimed in surprise. "That's three times the amount advertised."

"Yes," Wade confirmed. "10 Galleons for the agent role and 20 for tutoring. This is the base salary. Additionally, you'll receive commissions based on transactions you oversee."

Lupin was further astonished as he continued reading, discovering the detailed provisions for additional compensation.

The contract also stipulated that should Lupin fail to fulfill his duties and cause further harm to Wade, Wade reserved the right to terminate the agreement unilaterally.

Wade knew Lupin's circumstances well enough to anticipate that even a modest salary would likely suffice. Few were willing to hire a risky werewolf, and Lupin's moral compass precluded him from seeking gain through illicit means.

However, modest pay, contractual obligations, and ethical standards would ensure compliance with duties—not exemplary performance. Wade needed Lupin not merely as a laborer pushed to exhaustion but as a committed instructor willing to impart knowledge, a companion facing danger, and a partner entrusted with responsibilities.

Such commitment couldn't be bought with Galleons alone. Wade would have emptied his coffers to secure a wizard of such caliber, but offering more might imply ulterior motives.

Lupin carefully scrutinized the contract, hesitating briefly. "This... this is too generous."

He had sought employment initially expecting 10 Galleons per week—a sum sufficient to sustain him. The unexpectedly high salary left him feeling slightly overwhelmed.

"I hope it reflects the rewards you'll bring," Wade remarked after a moment's thought. "If not, I'll dismiss you next month!"

The half-jesting threat eased Lupin's tension. He smiled gently. "It seems I'll need to give a 200% effort to satisfy my young boss."

—Or perhaps he'd be dismissed promptly once his werewolf status was revealed?

Lupin mused silently, then lowered his head and signed the contract earnestly.

Wade added his signature, finalizing the agreement.

Wade retrieved the updated Friends Book and Soft Light Badge from his bag. "Now, let's discuss my latest endeavor. Mr. Marchionne from Aslan's Magic Workshop will arrive in half an hour. We need to prepare before his arrival."

Lupin stared blankly at the items. "The agent's duties... commence now?"

"Indeed," Wade affirmed, tapping the Friend Book. "—I always race against time."

...

Soon after, Marchionne arrived.

Upon entering, he noticed Professor Murray and Wade seated separately. A quick glance informed him of the situation. Ignoring Professor Murray, he warmly greeted Wade in the corner.

Later, Marchionne learned that Lupin served as Wade's agent. He disregarded Lupin's shabby attire and subdued demeanor, seamlessly transitioning into business mode. He praised the Soft Light Badge, deeming it more valuable than the Friends Book.

"You've truly grasped the essence of profit, Wade."

Aware of Professor Murray nearby, Marchionne lowered his voice, speaking eagerly, "Next time you have such a product, come to me first! I'll offer the highest price—no one else can surpass me, because they fail to grasp the brilliance of your work!"

With that, the brown-haired wizard hurriedly departed, leaving behind an untouched glass of butterbeer.

"So... is that all?" Lupin's expression still held confusion.

"Well, you'll get accustomed to it. As I said," Wade replied cheerfully, "we race against time."

Momentarily stunned, Lupin asked, "What's next?"

"No rush."

Wade handed Lupin a Friends Book for communication and a bag of Galleons.

"This is your first week's salary. I trust you can... uh... manage?"

...

Professor Murray sipped his mead slowly, observing his students.

Wade conversed confidently with the wizard across from him, displaying rare exuberance—confident, steadfast, composed, radiant as the rising sun.

Truly remarkable.

Time... claimed some, changed others... Yet decades and centuries later, it seemed as though nothing had truly changed at all.