051 The Studious Malfoy

"If I remember correctly, Mr. Malfoy, this should be the first time you and I have met in private since the Christmas vacation?" Professor Watson's voice reverberated through the spacious office, casting an atmosphere of tension that seemed to linger in the air. The piercing gaze of Professor Watson fixated on the desk opposite Malfoy, creating an impression that Malfoy was walking on a thin sheet of ice. Bryan, with a steaming cup of bitter tea in hand, lowered his head slightly, lost in a maze of contemplation. Since his return to Hogwarts, he had found solace in drinking tea more often than before.

Despite his distaste for bitter beverages, tea had become his beverage of choice, an inexplicable craving that surfaced whenever he desired a drink. Bryan contemplated the intricate nature of humanity, pondering on the complexities of the human mind, as he looked up once again to meet Malfoy's uneasy stare.

"Yes, you remember correctly, Professor Watson," Malfoy responded, his gaze fixed on his toes. He fidgeted on the cushioned stool, as if a thorn pricked his posterior, causing visible discomfort.

With graceful poise, Bryan leaned on the back of his chair, tracing the delicate rim of his cup with his fingertips. A subtle smile played on his lips as he observed the sole heir of the illustrious Malfoy family, known for their unwavering support of pure-blood superiority. His tone carried a touch of frivolity, bordering on rudeness.

"Well then, Malfoy, I am intrigued to know the purpose behind your visit, which necessitated the involvement of Professor Snape," Bryan remarked, his words draped in a domineering undertone. Having spent a considerable amount of time in Slytherin House, he had learned how to navigate interactions with the descendants of prestigious pure-blood families. A polite demeanor wouldn't earn their approval; it was respect that held true significance.

Under the weight of Bryan's powerful presence, Malfoy's previous arrogance and contempt vanished entirely. Just as Neville stood meekly in front of Professor Snape, Malfoy dared not act rashly and remained obedient.

"It is indeed about the 'Enhanced Levitation Charm' that you demonstrated in Defense Against the Dark Arts class, Professor Watson. I am seeking your guidance in mastering the intricacies of the spell. Although I attempted it in private, I still struggle to unravel its secrets," Malfoy confessed, his gaze shifting anxiously.

Bryan blinked, taken aback by Malfoy's unexpected response. He lightly tapped his desk, allowing a momentary pause before he responded. With unwavering focus, he maintained eye contact with Malfoy, his interest piqued, until the young wizard was overwhelmed by the lingering pressure. Just as Malfoy was on the verge of making a hasty retreat, Bryan's smile softened, and he spoke.

"And what, Mr. Malfoy, is the true purpose behind this ? Is it a genuine thirst for knowledge or merely a means to prove yourself equal to a 'Mudblood' such as Miss Granger?" Bryan's words carried a subtle darkness, probing beneath the surface.

Malfoy's expression grew gloomy. He couldn't openly admit that the latter was his true motive in front of Professor Watson. He knew that uttering such words would likely result in being swiftly expelled from the office.

"It seems you have discerned where the true problem lies, Mr. Malfoy," Bryan remarked, standing up with a disarming smile. His demeanor shifted back to its usual kind and friendly state, as if the dominant and overpowering wizard from moments ago had been replaced by someone entirely different.

Casually strolling to the center of the office, Bryan snapped his fingers, summoning a stone pillar resembling the one used during the Daytime Defense Against the Dark Arts class. "Come here, Mr. Malfoy. Let me witness your strength."

For nearly two hours, Bryan guided Malfoy, paying meticulous attention to detail. He patiently corrected the young wizard's casting gestures and taught him the intricacies of coordinating magical power while reciting the spell. However, despite their efforts, Malfoy couldn't fully grasp the 'Upgraded Charm' that Bryan had effortlessly wielded during his second semester in his first year.

This was an inevitable outcome, as Bryan had explained to Hermione in class. The spell required a level of magical power and control that was lacking in junior wizards. It was a limitation that couldn't be overcome. Not everyone possessed Bryan's exceptional magical power or the formidable spiritual power resulting from the fusion of two souls.

Nevertheless, Malfoy appeared relatively satisfied with his progress. A hint of complacency adorned the corner of his mouth as he observed the gravel scattered by the feathers he controlled.

"Thank you for your invaluable guidance, Professor!" Malfoy, now standing at the door, expressed sincere gratitude.

"Before you depart, I have one last piece of advice for you," Bryan said, returning to his desk and casting a meaningful glance at the door. "Throughout your journey, there is but one adversary you must overcome, Mr. Malfoy, and that is your own arrogance."

The pleasant weather that had graced Hogwarts for many days finally gave way to a rainy Saturday morning. As the rain pattered down, the castle stood tall, emanating a damp and biting cold reminiscent of the previous month. From a distance, Hogwarts Castle majestically overlooked the snow-capped peaks and the sprawling forest.

While passing the Quidditch pitch, Bryan was surprised to witness a few brave young wizards clad in Gryffindor uniforms braving the wind and rain on their broomsticks. Shaking his head in disbelief, he muttered to himself.

"Poor Flint, he will need assistance from both Merlin and God to secure victory in this year's final," Bryan remarked, watching the courageous players battle against the elements.

Upon arriving at the cabin nestled within the Forbidden Forest, Hagrid could be found at the back of the house. He hummed softly, his attention fixated on bandaging the injured hoof of a magical creature. His large, furry face displayed a gentle expression.

Continuing on his way, Bryan arrived at Hagrid's cabin in the depths of the Forbidden Forest. There, he found Hagrid humming softly, tenderly tending to an animal with a wounded hoof. Hagrid's large, furry face expressed an unmistakable care.

"These Hippogriffs aren't the friendliest creatures, Hagrid," Bryan commented, observing Hagrid's gentle touch.

"Oh, they're alright once you get the hang of 'em. They ain't difficult to deal with," Hagrid replied, engrossed in tending to the injured Hippogriff's wing. He didn't immediately realize who was addressing him. "This little fella here's almost an adult. In the fight for mating rights, it had a tough battle with its companions and ended up with wounds all over. Can't just ignore 'em, else they'll fester and ooze pus!"

Most magical creatures possessed sharper instincts than wizards. As Bryan observed the scene with great interest, the Hippogriff with its collar and the hippocampus motif seemed to sense the danger emanating from the young wizard and eagerly sought to break free from Hagrid's grasp.

"Don't worry, Buckbeak. I won't harm you. Could you please hand me the scissors?" Bryan assured the restless creature, extending a helping hand.

Hagrid's massive hand gently held Buckbeak's neck, preventing the Hippogriff from escaping. The creature struggled vigorously, but Hagrid's grip remained firm and unyielding.

"Thank you," Bryan said politely as Hagrid handed him the scissors, his eyes gleaming with admiration. Dumbledore had been right—Hagrid, with his giant heritage, possessed a brilliance that surpassed ordinary people.

The moment Hagrid released his grip, Buckbeak darted away like an arrow, disappearing into the depths of the Forbidden Forest without a backward

glance. Hagrid's face beamed with happiness, witnessing the spirited nature of the Hippogriff.

"Looks like you're in good spirits, Buckbeak, my lad. I hope this experience won't make you afraid to pursue love. Uh, ahem! Oh, Professor Watson!" Hagrid finally smiled, his gaze shifting from Buckbeak to Bryan. Initially surprised by the visitor, his smile soon transformed into an awkward but polite expression. "So it's you, Professor Bryan. What brings you here? I mean, what can I do for ya?"

Bryan returned Hagrid's smile and nodded appreciatively. Dumbledore had indeed been right about the humble gamekeeper's genuine kindness.

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