Chapter 31
Devero raised his hand and asked, "Professor, do you know about the so-called 'indescribable existence'?" In truth, Devero didn't genuinely expect a definitive answer.
He was more interested in Professor McGonagall's reaction to the question, particularly her views on the field of microstructure transfiguration. It seemed the wizarding world had made little progress in studying microstructures. The entire field appeared to be in a remarkably stagnant state, with the latest research dating back seven years. For a scientific discipline, such stagnation was almost unthinkable.
As for why research had stalled, Devero suspected, as Professor McGonagall had mentioned, it was due to a lack of effective observation methods, preventing deeper exploration of the field. Consequently, no one else could perceive the indescribable, terrifying existence within the micro-world. Did that mean Devero was currently the only wizard capable of exploring microstructures?
A bold idea struck him. Perhaps he could create a universal microstructure chart that anyone could master, with him identifying the microstructure corresponding to each object. This could lead to wandless transfiguration—a groundbreaking achievement! The potential for profit was enormous.
Of course, this hinged on addressing the threats lurking in the micro-world. While Devero wasn't particularly driven by money, he knew he'd need resources to explore wizarding secrets worldwide. His ancestor's wisdom was already so profound—how could he not continue this quest? Money would be essential.
Moreover, if he achieved academic success in transfiguration, he'd likely have opportunities to visit other schools for exchanges or even become a professor. As a professor, exploring those schools would be effortless, and it would give him access to talented individuals worldwide. In other words, it would make it easier to "copy and paste" their abilities.
Devero had already formulated a plan: diversify his efforts in potions and transfiguration to secure multiple paths forward.
To his surprise, his casual question caused Professor McGonagall's expression to turn grave. She quickly glanced around, as if afraid someone might be eavesdropping. Then, she stood, walked to the door, cautiously cracked it open, and peered outside to ensure no one was there. Only then did she close the door, turn back to Devero, and ask in a serious tone,
"Alexander, why are you asking this?"
Devero was taken aback by her reaction and couldn't fathom why her demeanor had shifted so drastically. He decided against mentioning the terrifying sensation he'd felt in the micro-world and opted for a vague excuse.
"Professor, I was just curious. I read something about it in some newspapers and wanted to ask you." He tried to keep his voice steady.
McGonagall's brow furrowed further. "Newspapers? Which ones?"
Devero panicked slightly. Truth be told, he rarely read newspapers. Most of his knowledge about the wizarding world came from overhearing boastful chatter in pubs. He barely knew which papers existed in the magical world! From the original story, he only recalled *The Daily Prophet* and… "*The Quibbler*! Professor, I read about it in *The Quibbler*," Devero blurted out, silently apologizing to the yet-to-be-met Luna.
*The Daily Prophet* was far too official, being directly tied to the Ministry of Magic, and unlikely to report on something as esoteric as "indescribable existences." *The Quibbler*, on the other hand, with its reputation for conspiracy theories, seemed the perfect scapegoat. By pinning it on them, he figured no one would suspect anything.
Upon hearing *The Quibbler*, McGonagall's expression softened slightly, but she remained stern.
"Alexander, that kind of information is fabricated. Don't believe everything you read in those tabloids. Focus on your studies at school, understood?"
Devero nodded repeatedly.
"Now, off you go. It's almost curfew," McGonagall said, opening the door.
Devero darted out. As McGonagall watched his retreating figure, she murmured, "Indescribable… Tindalos?"
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Devero hurried down the dimly lit corridor, turning corners until McGonagall's imposing presence faded from view. His shoulders relaxed, and the tension he'd been holding eased.
For some reason, he hadn't told her about the terrifying sensation he'd experienced in the micro-world.
he also felt that Professor McGonagall might not allow him to continue researching this subject. After all. Academic exploration sometimes touches upon forbidden areas. And these areas are often not suitable for all scholars to investigate.
Moreover, Professor McGonagall's demeanor suggests...She doesn't seem entirely clueless. Could it be that they actually know about the existence of something terrifying?
But they're unaware of such... things existing in the microscopic world? At this thought, Devero's eyes narrowed slightly.
Unfortunately, Devero currently had no leads to pursue this further.
No, wait! There was something!
During this conversation, Devero unexpectedly caught a clue.
The newspaper *The Quibbler*, mentioned by Professor McGonagall, seemed to be the key to researching those elusive existences.
Judging by Professor McGonagall's expression, *The Quibbler* likely contained many unknown secrets and peculiar knowledge.
Therefore, reviewing the newspaper's past reports might provide him with some valuable information.
He could even directly contact Lovegood— Luna's father— to see if he knows anything.
"It's a pity Luna isn't at school right now," Devero thought to himself.
He decided to subscribe to *The Quibbler* tomorrow and try to get in touch with Lovegood.
But not tonight. Devero had already obtained a late-night pass, so there was no way he was going to obediently head back to sleep!
He definitely had to explore the school thoroughly.
Devero gave a soft chuckle, the corners of his mouth curving upward. An indescribable thrill surged through him.
He turned and dashed into the shadowy corridor, leaving only the faint, receding light behind him.