"The trajectory of the stars represents a grand and orderly flow of power in the universe."
"You understand correctly. The different positions and combinations of stars are generally believed to be able to release specific magical fluctuations."
"The phases of the moon are closely linked to the cycle of magic. Usually, during a full moon, the energy reaches its peak, and during a new moon, a new round of energy accumulation begins."
"Ordinary potion making will not be particularly affected. Wait until you have a deeper understanding of potion science."
"When you try to make some advanced potions, you need to consider the movement of the stars and guide the energy of the universe to flow in to improve the effectiveness of your potions."
Dylan understood it immediately.
As he took notes on Snape's knowledge, he asked, "I understand that Mercury seems to be related to wisdom."
"Then, Professor, let me give you a simple example. For example, when brewing a potion that enhances wisdom, wouldn't a certain situation occur?"
"When Mercury is in a position that facilitates the transmission of wisdom energy, the likelihood of brewing the potion is greater?"
Professor Snape nodded. "You could understand it that way."
"I have another question."
Dylan's pen didn't stop moving.
"Since you say the moon phase is related to energy, besides brewing the potion, does the moon phase also have an impact on the process of using the potion?"
"For example, if I take a healing potion during a full moon, will the full moon's powerful energy make the healing effect faster and more thorough?"
"Or, if I take a potion that can remove a curse during the waning moon, will the energy 'released' by the waning moon help dispel the curse more effectively?"
Dylan's question gave Snape a new understanding of him.
His expression finally softened, but his tone remained deep.
"That's a good question, and I understand it perfectly. That's the truth."
He explained to Dylan in more detail the influence of the stars on the potion.
Then he looked at him and asked, "Anything else you'd like to ask?"
Professor Snape, usually so cold, actually took the initiative to ask Dylan a question of concern!
"Don't get me wrong, I just thought that since you have a chance to escape the troll's mind, I wouldn't mind helping you."
Dylan couldn't help but laugh.
He hadn't said anything yet!
"Professor, is there any connection between spells and potions?"
"Or, in other words, can the process of a potion taking effect be compared to the process of casting a spell?"
"Can I refine a spell into a potion that can be stored, so I can use it at any time—even when I'm out of magic power?"
Snape glanced at him.
"Hmph, your thinking has a spark, but your pitiful knowledge is like a leaky old house; it can't hold the flame of knowledge."
He said coldly, "Spells and potions are both derived from the laws and rules of magical energy."
"Comparing the two is sheer folly!"
Dylan was stunned. "So, Professor, you're saying that spells and potions are essentially two parts with the same effect, but it's only together that they make up magic?"
"Excessive exploration of the essence is a waste of time,"
Professor Snape said instead of answering.
Dylan seemed to understand,
but then he thought of his father, who could cast magic directly with dried pufferfish and sometimes surrounded a cauldron, chasing demons and monsters away day and night.
"Speaking of which, Dad can defeat demons, so his magic level shouldn't be any lower than here,"
he muttered to himself. He
wondered if his achievement system would unlock magic from other worlds.
Hours passed in a flash.
Professor Snape saw that Dylan hadn't shown any sign of finishing his questioning.
Doesn't this little wizard get hungry?
This is the age when children need to eat something every once in a while, right?
Snape didn't want to eat quickly, but Dylan, the stupid little wizard, had starved himself.
He stood up. "That's all for today. Every Saturday from now on, I'll set aside some time for you, usually in the afternoons."
Dylan was immediately pleasantly surprised.
A promise from Professor Snape?
How rare!
He quickly said, "Professor Snape, besides asking you questions, can I have you guide me through the potion-making process?"
To prevent the guy from making any more snide remarks, Dylan added,
"I've pretty much mastered the textbooks. What I need more is practice."
After Dylan finished reading each textbook for the first time, he would complete his first achievement and receive rewards that increased his talent or affinity for that subject.
This was one of the reasons he was able to self-study most of the textbooks in such a short time.
"So what textbooks did you read? Low-level potions would just waste my ingredients."
Dylan blinked, taken aback for a moment.
What did he mean?
He didn't even have to provide the ingredients for the potions?
My good Lord Voldemort!
This was too good to be true!
Dylan was practically in love with Professor Snape.
This wave, straight away!
He excitedly flipped to the last page of his notebook.
It listed the books he'd already read.
Snape glanced at it.
It was densely packed.
More than a whole page.
Dylan turned his pen over and counted.
"I've read... Magical Potions and Liquids, A Guide to Potion-Making Techniques, A Bottle Carnival for You, The Connection Between Potions and Magical Defense..."
"That's enough,"
Professor Snape interrupted.
"Have you read Advanced Potions?"
Dylan nodded. "I have."
"Okay, then go look up the precise formulas for Advanced Potions and read the Guide to Safe Use of Potions."
Professor Snape started toward the door. "Next week, I'll teach you how to make Advanced Potions."
"Yes!"
Dylan replied.
"Do you still need me to invite you out?"
Professor Snape opened the door and stood by it, silently watching Dylan.
Dylan quickly stuffed his notebook and pen into his bag and hurried out.
"Would you like to have dinner together, Professor?"
"Forget it. I don't have the patience to watch you stuffing food into your mouth while you're messing with your pathetic knowledge of potions in your head."
Snape closed the door and walked straight in one direction.
Not the Great Hall.
Dylan stood there, shrugged, and then turned and walked towards the Great Hall.
He wanted to have a quick meal, and then take advantage of the weekend to finish reading the two books that Professor Snape had specifically pointed out to him.
One of the benefits of being at Hogwarts
is that he no longer has to spend money to buy books. He can find most of the books he needs directly in the library.
(End of this chapter)