Hogwarts: The Greatest Wizard

Chapter 93: Studying at Lovegood

Just as Pandora had said, she was not particularly skilled in alchemy. Therefore, when teaching Phineas, she mostly focused on explaining the theoretical foundations of alchemy through discussion and explanation. Practical application would have to wait until Phineas left and could practice on his own.

Most of Pandora's instruction centered around the principles and connections between ancient runes and ancient magic.

This was exemplified by the protective magic Lily Potter had cast on Harry Potter, which they had previously discussed.

Although Phineas had not come to study alchemy in depth, he was able to solidify his weak foundation. More importantly, he made great strides in his understanding and use of ancient magic and runes.

Not only did Phineas learn more than he had expected, but he also stayed longer than he had planned. He remained at the Lovegood household for over a month, during which time Pandora taught him all the fundamental knowledge he required.

When Phineas had first arrived, there had been a little over a month left of summer break. His original plan was to stay for about two weeks, then work with Professor Dumbledore to take revenge on the vampire clan.

Phineas had never forgotten his mission to avenge the vampire clan. Moreover, he bore the responsibility bestowed upon him by his ancestors—to purify his bloodline.

Wizards in the magical world were in some ways more akin to warlocks, relying not on meditation to absorb ambient magic but rather drawing magical strength from their bloodline.

Time passed quickly while studying, and neither Phineas nor Pandora noticed how quickly the days slipped away.

It wasn't until a Hogwarts owl arrived at the Lovegoods' house that they realized a month had gone by.

The owl delivered Phineas's notice and book list for the upcoming school year.

The only new book required for second year was Standard Book of Spells, Grade 2 by Miranda Goshawk. Other subjects retained their previous textbooks.

It seemed that this year's Defense Against the Dark Arts professor would be more reliable. The fact that the book list hadn't changed suggested that the curriculum would continue where Professor Jonathan had left off.

Pandora glanced at the list and said thoughtfully,

"I remember in my time we also had Practical Defensive Magic and Its Use Against the Dark Arts. Oh, and you might want to get The Fifth Element: An Exploration. It's too advanced for most second-years, but it could spark some ideas for you."

Phineas nodded in agreement. Fortunately, he wouldn't need to make a trip to Diagon Alley. Last year, he had already purchased Standard Book of Spells Grades 1 through 7, along with an original, unabridged version that contained spells no longer found in the school edition—some for pranks, some jinxes, and even a few curses.

Miranda Goshawk had originally written the series as a spell compendium, not a school textbook. Because of the sheer breadth of spells it contained, it was later abridged and divided into levels for use at Hogwarts.

Now that the owl had delivered the book list, Phineas could no longer stay at the Lovegoods' home. With just a week remaining before school, he needed to begin preparations—particularly for his planned bloodline sublimation ritual.

"Senior Pandora, with term starting soon, I must take my leave," he said.

As part of the tradition among Ravenclaw heirs, Phineas referred to Pandora—who had graduated many years before him—as "Senior Sister," just as Pandora had called Lily Potter her own Senior Sister. Though Pandora had served as his instructor, in the study of ancient runes and magic, their only true teacher was Lady Rowena Ravenclaw herself.

Pandora nodded and said,

"Yes, in this past month I've taught you all the foundational knowledge I know of alchemy and ancient magic. The rest is up to you to practice and explore."

She was not especially sentimental about his departure—it had always been expected.

But little Luna was less prepared for goodbyes.

"Brother Phineas, are you leaving?" the nine-year-old asked, her wide eyes filled with sadness.

At this age, Luna was far from the ethereal and independent young witch she would one day become. With her mother still alive and caring for her, she remained innocent, childlike, and full of quiet wonder.

Phineas knelt down and smiled at the younger girl,

"In two years, you'll be at Hogwarts. Then you'll see me again."

Luna's eyes brightened, and she nodded with a soft smile.

"It's a promise. I'll come find you at Hogwarts in two years."

Phineas chuckled and gently ruffled her hair. He turned to Pandora and Xenophilius and offered a polite farewell.

"Puff, take me back."

The house-elf appeared instantly, took Phineas's hand, and Disapparated them away from the Lovegood household.

Luna stared at the empty space where he had vanished. Her eyes welled with tears as she turned to her mother.

"Mum, Brother Phineas disappeared…"

Pandora knelt down and said gently,

"He only went back to school, Luna. When you're old enough, you'll go too. Just like Phineas said—he'll be waiting for you at Hogwarts."

Luna sniffled and looked up, wide-eyed.

"Really? I can go to Hogwarts too?"

"Of course," Pandora smiled. "Didn't I tell you? Your father and I both graduated from Hogwarts."

Luna nodded firmly.

"Then I'll definitely go to Hogwarts. Mum, can you teach me magic?"

Pandora smiled and said,

"All right. I'll teach you. But to use magic, you'll need a wand. You can use your father's wand for now."

And just like that, the matter was settled—regardless of whether Xenophilius agreed.