A Professor of Magic at Hogwarts C.371: Choices

Felix turned his head away, not looking at the Slytherin witch who was staring at him intently. He cleared his throat and continued, "After analyzing with my fellow professors, we've identified two main areas where you all need improvement. Firstly, your repertoire of spells is not extensive enough to handle various complex situations. For instance, magical flames"

He paused, not continuing further.

"And the second area is a lack of practical experience, or real-world combat, not the kind of prearranged duels you've had in class. I'm referring to how you handle sudden crises, which is closely tied to your own life experiences."

"There was a time when Hogwarts had a tradition of graduates embarking on a year-long journey. It was something like close friends traveling together, experiencing magical customs in different parts of the world..."

"However, due to the wizarding war and recent years, various magical ministries have tightened their policies. To visit another country, you must register in advance and obtain permission from the local magical authority. This has made such journeys less popular."

Felix recounted this historical context, giving them a general idea.

"In the coming month, as the Room of Requirement becomes more refined, you'll face simulated dangerous scenarios to gain experience. Not only me, but other professors will also be present here to guide you."

"Of course," Felix paused and pondered, "Professor Moody might have different plans. He prefers to test you in real scenarios to see how you handle danger. You should be somewhat familiar with his character..."

More than one student wore a grim expression. Professor Moody's rough demeanor and his audacity in class had earned him quite the reputation. Hogwarts students had suffered quite a bit; which student hadn't been singled out and subjected to curses a few times? However, according to an anonymous student, although it felt awful to be cursed by Moody, there was a strange sense of satisfaction when watching him curse others.

"As candidates for champions," Felix raised his voice, snapping the students back to attention, "or as selected students to participate in exchanges, showcasing Hogwarts' teaching achievements, you will have the opportunity to learn many advanced spells. The most direct path is through the Restricted Section of the library."

"All you need to do is register, and you'll gain access to various advanced magical books."

The students began discussing in hushed tones, excitement in their eyes. Felix even heard someone mention "Dark Magic," and he raised an eyebrow.

"I must remind you that the Triwizard Tournament has forbidden the use of Dark Magic. Even in this edition," he wasn't entirely certain, "the Ministry of Magic is in heated discussions..."

"So, you're saying we might face Dark Magic?" Harry asked, surprised.

"No, it's not like that," Felix explained, "the Ministry's bottom line is that champions cannot use Dark Magic against each other. But Demstrang proposed that, during the tasks, it's 'reasonable' to use Dark Magic against non-human creaturessuch as those powerful and deadly magical creatures."

"Wagadou and Uagadou agreed as well. The current dispute lies in which specific Dark Magic will be allowed. The Ministry is working around the clock to compile a list."

"So, we could use Dark Magic?" Collins asked, pressing further, "As long as it's on that list?"

"Perhaps according to the rules, but for Hogwarts students, professors won't offer guidance in that direction," Felix said calmly. "I know some of you may not be unfamiliar with Dark Magic, but considering the consequencesopenly using it would attract attention from the Ministry and lead to questions about Hogwarts' educational philosophy from the outside."

He shrugged, "The war wasn't that long ago, and most British wizards despise Dark Magic."

Collins looked at him provocatively, "So, as long as we're not caught, it's fine?"

Felix gazed at her, a slight smile tugging at his lips, "You're right, Miss Flourish, whether you use Dark Magic or not won't affect the judges' scoring. But, if you ask me, it's unnecessary and might come with more disadvantages than benefits."

He looked at the group, "Many of you, especially the younger students, haven't realized the special privileges you'll enjoy over the next few months. The Hogwarts library will open its doors to you, and all professors will provide knowledge beyond your textbooks, including various advanced spells and magical theories."

"If I were you, I wouldn't miss out on such a great opportunity. It'll greatly benefit your future."

"But why learn all these complex things if we won't need them after graduation?" a student questioned.

Felix glanced at the others; they shared a somewhat skeptical look. He shook his head, "Seems like this is indeed a question many of us might have during our schooling"

"Why bother delving deep into advanced and obscure spells and theories when a few years of basic learning could lead to a comfortable life without much effort?"

"This is actually a very intriguing question. Does anyone have an answer?"

A Ravenclaw girl playfully raised her hand, "Professor, I know! I just love magic! I'm interested in them."

Felix smiled at her, "That's a good mindset."

"Studying magic can lead us to significant status, entering better companies like Gringotts and the Ministry of Magic!" Roger Davies said.

"Hmm, constructive input. Anything else?"

"People will fear you, respect you, dare not cross you," Collins Flourish said coldly.

"Valid points... Anything more?"

"You can do what you love," Hermione chimed in.

"Very close to my personal answer," Felix chuckled.

He surveyed the group, his gaze sliding over each of their eyes. "I can't provide you with the right answer, because there isn't a correct and singular answer. I can only share my own understanding."

"What's the use of delving deeper into magic, including studying those obscure magical theories?"

"My view is that it allows you to go further on the path of magic than others, granting you more options naturally."

"Want to research magic? Of course, you can quietly become a scholar, grasp the mysteries of magic and untouched realms."

"Do you want to hold high positions, gain authority? Besides having a sharp and clever mind, magic's power is indispensable. Then, magic becomes your handy tool, aiding you in gaining fame and power;"

"Or... money? It's not impossible, but I suggest you choose the right magical field. Alchemy and ancient magical texts hold great promise. If any of you are interested, consider joining the 'Future World' company after graduation."

Felix blinked, offering them a smile.

"There's much more to say. Alter appearances? Transfiguration can do it; extend life? Potions can do it; travel the world? Seek thrills? Explore mysteries and treasures... or simply become an ordinary person."

"Of course, we might also fantasize" Felix lowered his gaze, "to make the world turn according to your will, bringing about changes because of you."

The students fell quiet.

Felix twirled his wand in his fingers and gently continued, "Indeed, for some people, like Headmaster Dumbledore, what troubles them isn't what they can do, but what to choose to do."

"Become Minister of Magic... or decide which candy to purchase from Honeydukes... Perhaps the latter consumes more of his mind."

"This highlights the importance of the power to chooseto shape the life we desire. The most obvious example is that every year, students receive more than one professor's recommendation letter. Clearly, these individuals have more room for choice."

"Let's get back to the topic and discuss something practical."

Felix raised his voice, "According to the latest information received by the Headmaster, this Triwizard Tournament will be different from the past, conducted in the form of groups. Naturally, the difficulty will also be increased."

"Each school will select three individuals to form a team. After the three tasks are completed, the school with the highest score will win the Triwizard Cup."

He looked at the group, saying, "For sixth and seventh-year students, you'll be grouped randomly in the coming weeks, fostering teamwork. You never know who might become your teammate during the competition. As for fourth and fifth-year students, you have more flexibility, no requirements."

As he finished speaking, Harry, Ron, and Hermione immediately huddled together.

>

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