absorption

"Ciaran, what's the matter? Do you wish to borrow a book?" Dumbledore inquired, flipping through a hefty tome without raising his gaze.

Ciaran hadn't ventured here for borrowing books; rather, he sought Gryffindor's sword, proudly displayed on the wall within the headmaster's office.

"I wish to lay eyes upon Gryffindor's sword, a rare treasure left by Godric Gryffindor," Ciaran stated.

"The Sword of Gryffindor?" Dumbledore's gaze lifted, his blue eyes locking onto Ciaran. "And what purpose do you have for the Sword of Gryffindor?"

"Just to examine it. It holds significance as a magical relic from ancient times, a testament to Gryffindor's legacy. I am indeed curious about the sword," Ciaran replied, partially truthful in his assertion. As a relic from one of Hogwarts' four founders, curiosity was inevitable, though his primary interest lay in its potential Force points.

Dumbledore did not object. Instead, he retrieved the sword with a smile, cautioning, "Take it and study it, but handle it with care. Though the sword, forged by goblins, is resilient and sharp, few things in the magical realm can damage it. However, as Gryffindor's sword, it warrants utmost care."

Accepting the sword, Ciaran's pupils discerned a line of text on his system panel.

"I've located Gryffindor's sword. Force points: 40. Would you like to absorb them?"

Suppressing his elation, Ciaran hadn't expected to acquire Gryffindor's sword so effortlessly. He resisted the urge to absorb the Force points immediately, thanking Dumbledore with a smile instead.

Returning to his office, Ciaran understood why Dumbledore acquiesced to his request. While the sword held value, it remained more symbolic than practical for wizards, serving as Gryffindor's legacy. Dumbledore likely trusted Ciaran not to misuse or damage the artifact.

Sealing the office, Ciaran deliberated, "Absorb them?"

"Absorb."

A refreshing energy coursed through him, akin to sating hunger with a hearty meal after days of deprivation.

"Forty Force points won't elevate my magical proficiency in Charms, Transfiguration, Potions, or Herbology. It's wiser to reserve them for future endeavors, enhancing magical prowess further," Ciaran mused.

Intent on inspecting Gryffindor's sword, he noted a slight dimness to its sheen, prompting him to delay its return. A brief absence would evade Dumbledore's notice, preventing suspicion.

Wondering if its sharpness had diminished, Ciaran conjured a sturdy tree trunk and effortlessly cleaved it with the sword. Satisfied, he concealed the sword, pondering its potential alongside other magical artifacts within Hogwarts.

*******

The school year at Hogwarts unfolded smoothly despite the looming presence of dementors. Dumbledore's vigilance barred their entry into the school grounds.

As for Sirius, rumors speculated his flight to distant lands.

"He likely fled the country. Sirius, impulsive yet brave, isn't foolish. With Aurors in pursuit, remaining within the country spells danger," Professor Flitwick remarked one evening in late October.

Unbeknownst to them, Sirius sought refuge at Fremont Manor.

"You underestimate him, Filius," Professor McGonagall countered. "Sirius shelters with a mysterious benefactor, determined to reunite with Harry at Hogwarts."

"A despicable traitor!" Hagrid's exclamation reverberated, drawing attention.

"Shh!" Professor McGonagall hushed him.

Hagrid recounted his encounter with Sirius following James and Lily's demise, expressing regret at comforting the man responsible for their deaths.

Xia Ran observed Snape's somber countenance, suspecting Snape's involvement in the prophecy that led to Voldemort's attack on the Potter family.

"Thank you, Professor McGonagall," Hagrid concluded, decrying Sirius's intentions had he acquired custody of Harry.

As Lupin entered, Snape emitted a scornful sound.