After consuming the magic blood, John felt as though the world around him had crystallized into a sharper, more vivid reality. Magical elements seemed to flicker into his vision intermittently, revealing themselves in a way they never had before. Even without seeing them directly, their presence was unmistakable and profound. "The effects of the magic blood are more significant than I anticipated," John mused, a sense of awe coloring his tone.
With a newfound confidence, he retrieved his wand and decided to test the limits of his enhanced abilities. A simple incantation intended to produce a modest flame instead unleashed a torrent of fire that engulfed the basement. John was taken aback by the intensity of the spell, and it took considerable effort to rein in the rampant flames. "A basic flame spell yielding a Fiendfyre-like effect," he pondered aloud, both impressed and slightly alarmed by the power at his fingertips. The thought of enhancing the Fiendfyre spell crossed his mind, but he quickly dismissed it, recognizing the potential danger. "Controlling level 4 flames is challenging enough; attempting to master Fiendfyre could very well lead to disaster."
The basement, now missing several items, bore the marks of his magical experiments. A chair, previously transfigured into an owl and now serving as a decorative piece in Watson's possession, had fooled Basil into thinking John kept live owls below. Despite his efforts, John found himself unable to reverse the transformations wrought by his surged magical power. "This Magic Rage has unlocked my full potential," he reflected, observing the lifelike quality of the transfigured animals, which lacked only the gift of movement. In this state, he felt capable of standing toe-to-toe with Voldemort himself, though he was acutely aware that such power was fleeting and not without its risks.
In the magical world, there existed creatures known as Morans, born from wizards who lost control of their magic. These beings were perilously dangerous, and those afflicted, known as the silent, often met with untimely ends. John recalled an incident in New York, where an Obscurial's rampage nearly exposed the magical community to the non-magical world, a catastrophe narrowly averted. The stakes of using magic blood were high, and John knew he must exercise caution to avoid a similar fate.
With his alchemy skills now improved to level 2, John found himself more adept at the craft, especially with the aid of the Philosopher's Stone. He set to work on one of the nine refined badges, carefully inscribing it with runes. The Thurisaz rune, known for its reflective properties and a touch of luck, shimmered briefly upon the badge before settling into a subtle glow. "The combination of the Sorcerer's Stone and dragon's blood as ink yields remarkable results," John noted with satisfaction, securing the galaxy-patterned badge to his chest. He planned to reserve the remaining badges for further experimentation.
"John, someone is looking for you," came Mrs. Wick's gentle voice, pulling him from his thoughts. Expecting perhaps Harry or a former classmate, John was surprised to find none other than Professor Dumbledore awaiting him, clad in a lavender wizard robe and peering through his half-moon spectacles. Dumbledore's presence was unassuming yet filled with an air of wisdom, particularly evident as he admired the decorative owl with keen interest.
"Professor Dumbledore," John greeted, his voice betraying a hint of nervousness as he approached the esteemed wizard. Dumbledore's smile was warm and reassuring. "Minerva speaks highly of your talent in Transfiguration, John," he said, causing a flush of embarrassment to rise in John's cheeks. Dumbledore's praise was not given lightly, especially considering his own expertise in the subject. The transfigured owl, capable of impressing even a former Transfiguration professor, was a testament to John's skill.
Dumbledore's gaze held a mixture of curiosity and concern as he broached the reason for his visit. "Harry recently received a warning letter from the Ministry of Magic's Prohibition of Misuse of Magic Office, and he feels deeply wronged by it," he explained, the twinkle in his eyes dimming slightly at the thought of Harry's distress. John feigned ignorance, yet his actions betrayed him as he nervously pocketed his wand. Dumbledore, with a whisper of reassurance, said, "Don't be nervous. Some of the more ingenious wizards always find unique ways to navigate their problems. Harry will be alright; consider this a minor caution." He illustrated his point with a pinch of his fingers, signaling the triviality of the situation. This gesture allowed John to exhale in relief, comforted by the thought that Harry's status as the chosen one might afford him some leniency. It dawned on John that Dumbledore's visit was likely prompted by the commotion he had caused days earlier. He promptly invited Dumbledore to take a seat.
Mrs. Wick soon arrived with a tray carrying a pot of tea and freshly baked cookies. "These are wonderfully made," Dumbledore commented, taking a bite of a cookie and lavishing it with praise. Mrs. Wick's face lit up with joy at the compliment.
After some light conversation, Dumbledore steered the discussion toward the heart of the matter. "John, the Philosopher's Stone has been in your possession for some time now," he stated. John immediately grasped the implication, believing Dumbledore was here to reclaim the Stone. With a sense of resignation, he responded, "Of course, Professor Dumbledore, I'll fetch it at once."
"No, no, John," Dumbledore interjected, seeing the misunderstanding. "There's no rush. The Sorcerer's Stone has been publicly declared destroyed. You may keep it for the remainder of your holiday."
Confused, John asked, "Then what brings you here, if not for the Philosopher's Stone?"
Dumbledore's smile held a hint of mystery. "An old friend of mine has heard of a young wizard with a keen interest in alchemy and wishes to meet him." John's heart raced at the mention of an old friend—Nicolas Flamel, the legendary alchemist and the only person to have ever created the Philosopher's Stone. The thought of meeting such an iconic figure excited him.
Dumbledore, sensing John's enthusiasm, suggested, "If you have no other plans for your holiday, and with your parents' consent, perhaps we could arrange a trip abroad."
John didn't hesitate. The opportunity to meet Nicolas Flamel, a master of alchemy, was too good to pass up. His ongoing project, a magical sword, was far from completion, and he couldn't miss this chance for further learning.
After a brief discussion with his parents, John's father was easily convinced. However, Mrs. Wick expressed concern over the idea of traveling abroad. John and his father exchanged knowing glances, eventually persuading her with promises of gifts and favors for the family, including sending letters home every week. Mrs. Wick reluctantly agreed, but not without threatening John with the prospect of facing his uncles should he fail to write home. The thought of his burly, bear-wrestling uncles was enough to ensure John's compliance.
With plans settled, John returned to the basement to pack his essentials, including the precious Philosopher's Stone and his alchemical materials. After spending some time playing Frisbee with Tom, John noticed Dumbledore dressed in casual attire, suggesting a change of plans. Dumbledore, intrigued by the idea of experiencing a Muggle cruise, had decided to forgo the usual magical means of travel. John, though surprised, was ready for the adventure that lay ahead, even if it meant postponing his experience with a Portkey.
_________
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https://www.youtube.com/@NovelAudioForge/featured
Direct Link to playlist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_Hg-qsW4rM&list=PLKskshYG-OcPTR4-Nw7IWFEBZm07D8pBV&ab_channel=NovelAudioForge