Leo was brought by McGonagall and Flitwick in front of the gargoyle statue.
"To the Badger's Den."
He said a foreign word, presumably in Japanese. The gargoyle immediately jumped aside. It seems like that was the password, but what could it mean?
They ascended the spiral staircase and reached the entrance to the Headmaster's office. McGonagall knocked, and they received permission to enter.
"Headmaster, I've brought Mr. Taylor."
"Ah, thank you, Minerva. Now, Leonard Taylor... or is it Leo? Congratulations on your enrollment. It's getting late, so let's get to the point."
Leo nodded, indicating his agreement.
"At the beginning of the school year, I mentioned that the fourth-floor corridor on the right is off-limits. I'm planning to hide something beyond that point, and I'm thinking of asking for your help. Will you accept? Of course, it won't be for free. If you have any requests, I'll do my best to fulfill them."
Leo took a moment to think.
"Well, before I accept, could you tell me what exactly needs protection and from what? I'd like to cooperate if I know more about the plan."
"Very well, I shall tell you," Dumbledore agreed.
"Headmaster! Are you sure about this?"
McGonagall and Flitwick expressed doubt about revealing the plan to a student, let alone involving him.
"It's alright. Leo, can you perform Occlumency? This plan is something only a select few should know about. If it becomes known that you're involved, it could complicate matters."
"Regarding Occlumency, I can perform it at an average level. In fact, I've managed to resist Headmaster's Legilimency," Leo replied.
"I hope you can forgive me for using Legilimency without your consent. However, I need you to understand how important this matter is. Yes... it seems your mind is impenetrable, unlike with standard Occlumency, it feels as though my interference is being blocked. How do you do it?"
"I'm sorry, but that's a secret. It's accomplished through a magical item I've created."
"I see. Well, for now, you don't seem vulnerable to mind reading. Let me explain. The item to be protected is the 'Philosopher's Stone,' and the opponent is none other than the Dark Lord Voldemort."
Leo was astonished, more than he had expected. But when he thought about it, it made sense.
"I understand. You're planning to use the Philosopher's Stone to resurrect the Dark Lord. I get it. I'll help."
"Thank you. Now, as compensation, what would you like?"
Leo closed his eyes, considering his options. Thoughts about his new environment, things he wanted, even the Philosopher's Stone, swirled in his mind. After about ten seconds of contemplation, he reached a decision.
"First, I'd like to request access to a research space where I can work freely. I don't mind remaining in Ravenclaw, but I'd like permission to live in a laboratory rather than the common room."
"I shall grant it. You may use the large room on the opposite side of the entrance hall from the Great Hall. You're welcome to use expansion spells if needed. In fact, the Ministry of Magic has requested that I allow you to continue your research as much as possible. As long as your proposal won't harm anyone; go ahead and pursue your research. I'm looking forward to your achievements."
"Thank you. Next, my second request: may I conduct research on the Philosopher's Stone?"
"I cannot provide an immediate answer on that matter. The true owner of the Philosopher's Stone is Nicolas Flamel. I shall consult with him."
(As expected, it won't be easy to get permission for the Philosopher's Stone...)
"I understand. So, what is the current plan for protection?"
"As for the protection, each Hogwarts professor, including myself, is creating their own traps. Hagrid, the Keeper of Keys and Grounds, the four Heads of Houses, Professor Quirrell, who specializes in defense against the dark arts, and finally, me. I would like you to assist in improving each of these traps. Here is a detailed list of each trap. I will only confirm proposed improvements as a measure against information leakage. How long do you think it will take you to complete this task?"
Leo reviewed each item on the list one by one. Each defense method reflected the unique magical abilities and personality traits of the respective professors, which fascinated him.
"Well... it will take about a week to come up with ideas, then another week to finalize the plans after discussing them with you. After that, we can start preparations, so approximately a month in total?"
"Faster than I expected. Very well, let's finalize the details on another day. Is this place suitable for you? We will change the password for the Headmaster's office periodically, but for now, let's keep it as 'To the Badger's Den.' It's late today, and I'll contact you again. I'm looking forward to your suggestions."
"I will do my best to meet your expectations. Also one more thing I'd like to confirm."
"Yes?"
"No holding back, full-force removal of intruders. Is that acceptable?"
"No problem at all. I'll permit the use of any means necessary."
McGonagall and Flitwick had some doubts about the Headmaster's unexpectedly extreme permission.
"Well then, Professor Flitwick, could you please guide Mr. Taylor to his new room? He won't be living in the dormitories, but he's undoubtedly a Ravenclaw, so please take care of him."
"Of course, Headmaster. Shall we go, Mr. Taylor? We'll talk along the way."
"Yes. Goodnight, Headmaster Dumbledore, Professor McGonagall."
"Goodnight. Sweet dreams."
Leo and Flitwick walked through Hogwarts at night. There was no one else around, and occasionally, they spotted the ghosts. Flitwick seemed quite curious and engaged Leo in conversation.
"Leonard Taylor, I've heard quite a bit about your research. I've read your papers and articles. I was looking forward to your enrollment since I heard you were joining us this year. I'm thrilled that you've been sorted into Ravenclaw. Please feel free to rely on me for anything related to life at Hogwarts or anything else. Outside of class, I'm usually in my private room next to the Charms classroom. I always have some tea ready."
"Thank you, Professor Flitwick. I'll come to visit when I have time. If it's not a bother, would you be interested in collaborating on magical research outside of classes?"
Flitwick bounced up and down in excitement with his small stature.
"That's wonderful! Actually, your research has reignited the passion I had in my youth, inspired by you."
The two of them continued to walk enthusiastically, discussing their research and plans for collaboration. Their conversation continued until they reached their destination.
"Ah, here we are. Inside, you'll find a desk, a chair, and a simple bed. I think your belongings have already been brought in. As the Headmaster mentioned, you're free to install research equipment, renovate... well, I should say modify, as you like. It's already past midnight. Classes start tomorrow, so you'd better get some rest today."
"You're right. Let's save the modifications for tomorrow. Goodnight."
"Goodnight."
Leo entered the place that would become his room. It was basically an empty space. Since there was already a bed, he used magic to quickly freshen up and set an alarm spell before going to sleep.
(So many things happened on my first day, from the Headmaster's request to having my own research room and collaborating with a professor. Quite an eventful start.
With these thoughts in mind, Leonard Taylor's first day at Hogwarts came to an end.
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"I like any kind of chocolate snack, I do." (in the style of a certain scarlet-clad archer)
Now, how did you like the request from the Headmaster to Leo?
In Harry Potter fanfiction, the actions of an original character involving the Philosopher's Stone often fall into one of these categories:
1. Protecting it alongside Harry.
2. Having no knowledge or interest in the Philosopher's Stone.
3. Attempting to steal the Philosopher's Stone.
In this story, we've placed Leo on the side responsible for setting up traps.
Dumbledore's somewhat unusual behavior toward Leo might have raised questions, but there is a reason behind it. Stay tuned for the next chapter.
Thank you for your feedback and ratings. I'll do my best to continue entertaining you.
This chapter is a bit shorter.