Harry Potter: Elemental Magic

Chapter 28: Chapter 28: Neville Regains Confidence



"This is fantastic news, Harry," Neville said excitedly.

"Tomorrow, we'll finally start learning Elemental Magic from Professor Callister."

"Does that mean we'll be able to learn more powerful spells?"

As they left the Great Hall, everyone was buzzing about the Elemental Magic course. Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Neville were no exception.

For Neville, who had always struggled with magic, this was a source of great joy and anticipation.

Harry, Hermione, and Ron exchanged knowing smiles. As students who had already identified their elemental magic attributes, they were a step ahead of their peers. It was clear to them that this advantage would allow them to progress faster and farther.

"You all don't seem as excited as I thought you'd be," Neville said, puzzled as he looked at the trio.

"No, Neville, we're thrilled—more than anyone else," Harry replied. "But right now, we've got something we need to take care of."

Ron put an arm around Neville's shoulders and said cheerfully, "Exactly, mate. Don't worry about us."

Neville wasn't foolish. He had noticed Harry and Ron sneaking back late at night for the past two days. It was obvious they were up to something.

Looking seriously at them, Neville asked, "Are we classmates?"

Ron, unprepared for Neville's sudden solemnity, stammered, "Of course we are!"

"And are we housemates?" Neville pressed on.

"Obviously!" Ron replied, now more confused.

"Then, are we friends?" Neville asked, lowering his voice. "I know you've been staying out late at night."

Harry and Ron exchanged glances. This time, they understood what Neville was getting at.

"Uh, well..." Ron cleared his throat awkwardly, not knowing what to say.

Harry extended his hand with a smile and said, "Harry Potter."

Ron and Hermione watched Harry's gesture, then turned their eyes to Neville.

Neville, surprised by Harry's outstretched hand, let out a shy smile. He reached out, shook Harry's hand firmly, and said, "Neville Longbottom."

Ron and Hermione smiled at the sight.

"Neville, we're going to see Professor Callister to ask about Potions. Want to come along?" Harry asked.

"Sure!" Neville replied enthusiastically, his round face lighting up.

The four of them soon arrived at Callister's small villa.

It was Neville's first time there, and he found the charming little house quite fascinating.

"Professor Callister!"

Harry rang the bell at the gate and called out.

Callister opened the door with a warm smile. "Come in!"

His gaze landed on Neville, and he said, "Isn't this Neville Longbottom?"

Callister recognized Neville. After all, he played an important role in the Harry Potter series, eventually becoming the Herbology professor at Hogwarts and maintaining close friendships with Harry and the others.

Although Neville appeared timid and clumsy, he was a boy with a firm heart, respected by his peers in Gryffindor. His kindness and courage often earned him their protection—like the way Harry and Ron had stood up for him earlier.

Neville hadn't expected Professor Callister to remember his name. Touched, he quickly replied, "Yes, Professor. I'm Neville Longbottom."

"Welcome, Neville," Callister said with a smile.

The group entered the cozy home, and Callister asked, "Cola or Sprite?"

"Cola!" Harry, Ron, and Hermione answered in unison.

Callister nodded and turned to Neville, who hesitated before quietly asking, "Could I have coffee instead?"

"Of course. It seems we share a love for coffee, Neville," Callister replied. "Relax. I'm not Professor McGonagall—I won't deduct points at the drop of a hat."

Ron gave Neville a reassuring pat on the shoulder and said, "Don't worry. Professor Callister's really nice."

Neville, hearing this, nodded earnestly and visibly relaxed.

A short while later, Callister brought out the drinks and sat down with her coffee. "So, what brings you all here?"

"Professor, we'd like to learn Potions," Ron said, finishing half his cola in one go.

"Why?" Callister asked curiously.

"Because I believe you when you say Potions can make you rich," Ron replied with determination.

Callister chuckled at Ron's unexpected answer and turned to Hermione.

"I want to ace my exams and graduate with perfect scores in every subject," Hermione said confidently.

"An admirable goal," Callister said with an approving nod. She then looked at Harry.

"I have the fortune my parents left me, but I want to create my own wealth through hard work—and use it to help others," Harry said, glancing at Ron and thinking of Hagrid.

Callister smiled knowingly. In the original story, Harry's Potions skills were mediocre, much like Ron's.

"And you, Neville?" Callister asked, turning to him.

Neville hesitated, visibly nervous under everyone's gaze. After a moment of struggle, he finally said, "I want to do better in Potions. I don't want Professor Snape and my classmates to look down on me anymore."

Callister was momentarily taken aback, then laughed. Poor Neville—Snape's sharp tongue and cold demeanor had left him terrified.

"Well, if you're all so eager, I'll teach you Potions," Callister said. "But keep in mind, it's a subject that requires patience and a strong foundation in Herbology."

He added with a sudden sternness, "I expect you to persevere. Anyone who gives up halfway will face serious consequences."

Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Neville froze at her serious expression. A vague sense of unease began to settle in.

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