66 Contemplating Snap

Well, this is about what I expected, he mused, a wry smile tugging at the corner of his mouth as he surveyed his surroundings. The Hogwarts Legacy game didn't exactly depict this place as a treasure trove of Ancient Magic secrets.

He moved further into the chamber, his footsteps echoing softly against the stone floor. His plain black robes swished around his legs with each measured stride, the well-worn fabric whispering against itself. At the far end of the Undercroft, a familiar sight caught his eye - the Triptych, three combined paintings adorning the wall. Ah, there it is. If my memories serve me correctly, finding all three paintings would manifest a Pensieve.

Lucas approached the Triptych, studying the paintings with a thoughtful expression. He rubbed his chin absently. In the corner of the small nook housing the artwork, he spotted the Pensieve, its surface shimmering with a silvery liquid that resembled water. Bingo. Just like in the game. A direct link to the past, or at least a facsimile of it.

Turning around, his gaze was drawn to the blank wall on the opposite side of the Undercroft. He approached it slowly. If this timeline follows the game's lore accurately, then this wall should be a portal to Isidora Morganach's house in Feldcroft, a nearby wizarding hamlet south of Hogwarts. A direct connection between two locations, bridged by Ancient Magic itself. But only those capable of wielding such power can actually perceive and utilize it.

Reaching out, he gently placed his palm against the rough surface of the wall, his fingers tracing the subtle grooves and imperfections in the stone. For a few seconds, he waited with bated breath, hoping for some kind of reaction or sign that would confirm his suspicions. But the wall remained stubbornly inert, betraying no secrets. Sighing softly, Lucas dropped his hand and shook his head, his expression one of mild frustration. "Ancient Magic is definitely not visible to those who can't wield it," he muttered under his breath.

I can't help but wonder if the protagonist of the game is still alive in this timeline, he pondered, staring at the blank wall with a pensive expression. If they exist, they'd be around six years older than Dumbledore himself, so it's entirely possible. But then, why wouldn't they have intervened during the rise of Grindelwald or Voldemort? Surely someone with that level of power and knowledge wouldn't have stood idly by in the face of such threats. Unless...

His brow furrowed as a new line of thought took shape. Unless they were somehow incapacitated or removed from the equation entirely. Or perhaps their motivations and allegiances are not what we assumed. After all, the games only provided a limited perspective on their character and actions.

Shaking his head, Lucas turned and made his way back to the Pensieve. This device contains a memory of Morganach from centuries ago. In the game, the protagonist and their friend Sebastian Sallow used it to witness Morganach meeting with Hogwarts professors and demonstrating the use of Ancient Magic to extract pain from someone.

He leaned over the Pensieve, gazing into the shimmering liquid within its basin. Absorbing the extracted emotions allowed the caster to become stronger, amplifying their magical potency. But I wouldn't use such a spell even if I possessed the knowledge and ability. The risks of contaminating my own Will with foreign emotions are far too great. It might provide an initial boost in power, but over time, it could destabilize my entire being, causing my strength to wane and my control to falter.

Lucas straightened up, his brow still furrowed in contemplation. Still, the potential of Ancient Magic is undeniable, even from this limited glimpse. Ranrok, the leader of that goblin rebellion a century ago, managed to tap into a repository of this extracted pain deep beneath Hogwarts itself. By absorbing that raw, concentrated essence, he transformed himself into a powerful draconic entity, virtually immune to conventional magic and possessing immense physical durability. There might be some practical applications for such a technique, but I would never allow it to taint the purity of my own Will.

He glanced back at the Pensieve, hesitation flickering across his features. Should I use it? What if it has been tampered with or trapped in some manner? The protagonist or someone else could have easily exchanged the memory long ago, perhaps even setting a snare for the unwary. Using it might inadvertently alert them to my presence here, and I have no way of gauging their potential reactions or motives.

After a moment of careful deliberation, Lucas shook his head decisively. No, caution is the wiser path for now. I'll search the Hogwarts library thoroughly for any information on examining and identifying potential traps or alterations within a Pensieve before I even consider submerging myself in its depths. I'm not in such a desperate hurry to explore Ancient Magic that I would risk compromising my safety or exposing my intentions prematurely.

He turned away from the Pensieve as he thought about his own magic. My own Vast Sea Visualization technique is not something to be underestimated. While it may take time and practice to fully master new spells and reduce the strain they place upon my Will, once I achieve that level of proficiency, the possibilities are virtually limitless. Sensory techniques, offensive elemental manipulation, supportive spells - all of it is incredibly potent and adaptable in ways that even Ancient Magic may struggle to match.

Lucas began to pace the Undercroft slowly in measured steps with his hands clasped behind his back. My magic operates purely on Will and Intent, free from the need for wands or physical gestures. Those are merely focusing tools, crutches that I can easily discard if necessary. In the time it takes a conventional wizard to cast a single spell, I could unleash a barrage of multiple spells in rapid succession. Only Apparition allows them to face me on somewhat even footing, and even then, they would be forced to devote the majority of their focus towards evasion and defence.

He paused, his eyes gleaming in a certain kind of pride. In many ways, I feel my magic is not inferior to Ancient Magic, and may even surpass it in certain aspects. But Ancient Magic does possess unique advantages - stealth and concealment, for one. The ability to create objects and phenomena that remain utterly invisible and imperceptible to those without the requisite power is a formidable asset. And the raw, primal destructive potential hinted at, like the protagonist's supposed ability to disintegrate or explode enemies with a mere wave of a wand, is not to be dismissed lightly.

Lucas's gaze drifted back to the blank wall with a thoughtful expression. Ancient Magic also allows for the creation of objects and structures that endure for centuries, even millennia. Hogwarts itself was allegedly constructed using these techniques. And Lily's sacrificial protection, the very force that enabled her to shield young Harry from the Killing Curse, is said to be a form of Ancient Magic as well.

He resumed his pacing. It can shatter even the mightiest of conventional magical shields with ease, transform vast swaths of land into fertile soil near instantly. Ancient Magic is undoubtedly a force to be coveted, a wellspring of power that could potentially elevate one's abilities to unprecedented heights.

But then Lucas stopped, a resolute look settling onto his features. However, it is not an essential requirement, at least not in the immediate future. I can afford to take my time investigating the various locations and artifacts associated with Ancient Magic in and around Hogwarts when the opportunities arise. For now, I have other, more pressing priorities that demand my full attention and focus, namely the horcruxes.

With that thought firmly in mind, Lucas cast one last, lingering glance around the Undercroft before turning on his heel and striding towards the exit.

oo0ooOoo0oo

The Hufflepuff common room was a cozy haven, with its warm, honey-colored wood paneling and plush, overstuffed armchairs scattered about. Warm, golden light seemed to emanate from the very walls, casting a radiant glow over everything it touched. As Lucas stepped through the round, barrel-like entrance, he was immediately enveloped by the comforting scent of freshly baked bread and the faint, earthy aroma of plants.

Eyes scanning the room, he took in the sight of his fellow first-years engaged in various activities. Curled up in an armchair, Hermione's hair fell in a wild tangle around her face as she pored over a thick textbook. Nearby, Neville, Justin, Lily, and Sally-Anne were gathered around a low, circular table, playing a lively game of Exploding Snap.

When Lucas approached, Neville looked up, greeting him with a shy smile. His round face reddened with the excitement of the game. "Hey, Harry! We were wondering where you went off to," he said softly, his voice slightly breathless.

The others turned to face him, curiosity clear in their expressions. Justin leaned forward, blue eyes sparkling with mischief. "Did you find anything interesting while you were exploring?" he asked, excitement pitching his voice higher.

A grin spread across Lucas's face, his messy black hair falling into his eyes as he shrugged nonchalantly. "Not much, really. Just got a feel for the layout of the place, you know?" His tone was casual and relaxed. "But I did stumble across what might be a secret passageway."

Leaning in closer, the group's eyes widened with interest. Sally-Anne repeated in a hushed, awe-filled voice, "A secret passageway?"

Lucas nodded, his grin widening. "Yeah, I think it connects the Armoury and the Charms corridor. Cuts out a whole lot of walking, if you ask me. I can show you guys later, if you want."

A flurry of excited whispers and nods erupted from the group with their faces glowing in anticipation. Even Lily, usually more reserved, couldn't hide the bright spark of curiosity that lit up her delicate features.

But before their excitement spiralled further, Lucas held up a hand, his expression turning serious. "But listen, this has to stay between us, okay? Our little secret," he said conspiratorially.

From her perch on the armchair, Hermione had been listening in. She frowned slightly, brown eyes narrowing with concern. "But shouldn't we inform the teachers?" Her voice was hesitant.

Turning to face her, Lucas's expression softened. "It's just a shortcut, Hermione. No harm in that, right? We'll only use it to get around faster, not to cause any trouble," he reassured her.

Holding his gaze for a moment, Hermione's cheeks flushed slightly, heat rising to her face. Finally, she looked away, mumbling, "I suppose it's okay, then." Her fingers fidgeted with the corner of her book.

But just as quickly as her embarrassment surfaced, concern replaced it as she glanced back up at Lucas, scanning his face. "Are you alright, Harry? You look a bit tired," she said softly, worry in her voice.

Lucas waved away her concern with a smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm fine, Hermione. Just been thinking about Sirius Black's trial that's being held today, that's all. It's got me a bit preoccupied," he stated lightly.

The mention of the trial dampened the mood momentarily, uneasy glances exchanged among the others. But trying to change the topic, Justin quickly broke the tension with a grin, holding up the deck of cards. "Well, how about a few rounds of Exploding Snap to take your mind off it?"

Lucas nodded gently. "Sure, why not," he said, plopping down on the floor beside the table.

Exploding Snap was a popular wizarding card game, similar to the Muggle game of Snap but with a magical twist. The objective was to be the last player holding cards, but the catch was that the cards could explode at any moment, adding an element of surprise and excitement. 

As the cards were dealt, an easy rhythm of laughter and chatter filled the cozy common room. Neville, tongue poking out in concentration, carefully placed a card on the growing pile. For a moment it teetered precariously before exploding with a bang and puff of smoke, singeing his eyebrows.

"Wow, Neville, you nearly lost your eyebrows there!" Justin exclaimed with his face split in a wide grin.

Neville grinned sheepishly. "I think I'll stick to Gobstones from now on," he joked, patting his singed hair.

The game continued, and Lucas glanced over at Hermione who was still curled up with her book. "Hey, Hermione, why don't you join us?" he called out warmly.

Hermione looked up, and her brown eyes widened with surprise. "Oh, I don't know," she said hesitantly, glancing at her book. "I really should finish this chapter..."

Lucas smiled understandingly. "Come on, you can spare a few minutes with friends, can't you? The chapter will still be there when we're done." His tone was gently coaxing.

Furrowing her brow thoughtfully for a moment, Hermione sighed before closing her book and rising to join them. "Alright, but just for a little while," she relented with a small smile.

Grinning, Lucas scooted over to make room. "Excellent! Now let's see if you can avoid singeing yourself like Neville," he teased, eyes twinkling mischievously.

Neville shot him a mock glare. "Just deal the cards, Harry," he replied, failing to suppress his grin.

When the game resumed, tension mounted with each successful play. Lily's delicate features scrunched in concentration as she carefully placed a card, sighing in relief when it settled. Sally-Anne bit her lip, ponytailed hair messy, and her hand hovering indecisively over her cards.

Despite initial reluctance, Hermione found herself drawn into the excitement, brown eyes sparkling with newfound mischief as she made her move. The card teetered on the pile, taunting them with its precarious balance before erupting in a burst of smoke and sparks, scattering cards in all directions.

The group erupted in laughter with faces glowing in exhilaration. Hermione grinned sheepishly, brushing a stray card from her wild hair. "Well, that was certainly unexpected," she said breathlessly. 

The lively game continued, dotted by startled shrieks, laughter, and billowing smoke as the cards occasionally erupted. Even Hermione, initially hesitant, was soon whooping and giggling alongside the others with her earlier reservations forgotten.