Looking at the parchment Ciel had thrown to her, Umbridge suddenly felt a confused sensation. Clearly this hearing was intended to target Dumbledore through Professor Sprout. She was supposed to be the proactive party. But now, how had she been forced into such an embarrassing situation?
Her toad-like drooping cheeks twitched rapidly twice. But ultimately, she still picked up the quill. Reluctantly but helplessly, she signed her name on the parchment contract.
"Then. The contract is established."
Dumbledore announced. He looked deeply at Ciel. "Mr. Sprout, you may begin proving yourself."
Ciel nodded. He raised his hawthorn wand. Umbridge immediately felt her hand being pulled up by an invisible force. She also involuntarily raised her quill.
However, at this moment, Umbridge had calmed down. She absolutely didn't believe Ciel's records were real. Three days and nights without sleep? Continuously practicing the same spell tens of thousands of times? How was this possible!
At this time, Ciel addressed everyone present. "Everyone. There are still three days left in the Christmas holidays. You can go eat and drink first, and those who are tired can find a place to rest."
While everyone was still confused, the next second, Ciel's wand moved rapidly. He cast the Levitation Charm. "Wingardium Leviosa! Wingardium Leviosa!"
The reason he chose the Levitation Charm was because this spell was still relatively low in his mastery. Only Bronze tier. Though not bad for first-year mastery, compared to his other spells that were either Gold or Platinum tier, or at least Silver tier, it was rather shabby.
Among Ciel's current spells, the Soil-Loosening and Pruning Charms were naturally spells developed specifically for planting. The Lumos Charm also played an extremely important role in planting. Only the Levitation Charm, aside from that one time planting the Elber Tree, hadn't found use in planting.
But in Ciel's past life, space stations had a project of cultivating plants in zero-gravity conditions. This could potentially cause plants to develop new traits. The reason was simple. Many plant characteristics were born to resist gravity. For example, some plants with overly long stems would consume much nutrition to generate protective tissues around the stem to prevent it from breaking under gravity.
Gravity also affected plant water absorption and nutrient uptake. Once gravity was greatly reduced, much nutrition originally used to fight gravity could be used elsewhere. Some plants might exhibit better traits than on the ground. These were research results from his past life.
In this life, Ciel saw this hope in the Levitation Charm. Therefore, since his other spells were sufficient for now, he might as well use this as an opportunity to practice the Levitation Charm.
With Ciel's first Levitation Charm, Umbridge was forced under the contract to write "fairness" on parchment. However, she still didn't take it seriously. She could see that Ciel's Levitation Charm mastery wasn't high. Just excellent level for a first-year student.
As for genius, he didn't qualify yet. With such talent, why should he receive so much preferential treatment? It seemed this hearing would still achieve her purpose after all. All she had to do was wait patiently.
So Umbridge showed a confident smile, leisurely writing "fairness." She wanted to see how long Ciel could continuously wave his wand. Given the weight of a wand, continuously waving for ten minutes would make anyone's arm sore. Let alone Ciel's wand, which looked quite heavy. Perhaps after five minutes, he would have to slow down.
Umbridge looked expectant, writing "fairness" while staring at Ciel. Half an hour later, Ciel's wand-waving frequency remained constant. Umbridge frowned, showing some surprise. This young wizard actually had something? Half an hour without getting tired?
However, Umbridge remained confident, easily writing "fairness." When she first entered the Ministry, she worked as a secretary. A single meeting often required writing several thick stacks of paper. Not to mention later when her superior gave her trouble, often making her copy repeatedly within specified times without magical assistance.
Once, Umbridge copied for a full day and night to finish thick parchments. Even after all these years, Umbridge had worked her way up and even turned this into a means of tormenting subordinates. She even had a special black magic quill for people to copy with, making their memories "deep." But her skill hadn't gotten rusty.
Copying continuously for half an hour was easy. Umbridge didn't believe it. She was writing, and Ciel was waving his wand. Could she give up first?
Soon, time passed minute by minute. One hour, two hours. Three full hours passed. Ciel continued maintaining his uninterrupted frequency, steadily releasing Levitation Charms. He looked relaxed, showing no signs of stopping.
Umbridge's face gradually began to look wrong. The parchment before her was densely covered with thousands of "fairness" marks. Her hand already felt waves of soreness from non-stop writing. She stared at Ciel with wide eyes.
What?! Really three hours without a single breath?! An unsettling thought gradually clouded her mind. Could the records be true? Could Ciel really go days and nights without sleep, continuously practicing spells? What kind of top-tier workaholic was this!
Fortunately, at this moment, Ciel's movement stopped. His brow furrowed slightly, as if pondering something. Umbridge sighed in relief.
But before she could speak, a powerful Silencing Charm covered everyone in the venue except Ciel. Dumbledore's voice echoed. "Quiet. Mr. Sprout is contemplating spell issues. Don't disturb him."
It turned out that on Ciel's system panel, the Levitation Charm's bronze luster was already covered with silver light. After all, his magical perception was completely different now. Plus, with several Platinum-tier spells as a foundation, the advancement from Bronze to Silver was very rapid.
After three hours of practice, he had gone from Bronze to just one step away from Silver. This final advancement step might have taken Ciel days before. But now, he only needed to think and feel briefly to understand the key.
"Lightness. Need a feeling of lightness in body and mind. The moment the wand is waved, it's like becoming a floating cloud or feather."
Then Ciel waved his wand again. "Wingardium Leviosa!"
A much more effective Levitation Charm was cast. On the system panel: [Levitation Charm (Silver Tier)] advanced.
However, this only made Ciel slightly happy. Silver tier was still too shabby for a basic spell. And what plants was he growing now? Guardian Trees, mutated Devil's Snare... these plants all had different degrees of magical resistance. A Silver-tier Levitation Charm would have limited effect.
Ciel felt that to make it useful in upcoming planting, it needed at least Gold tier. Of course, if it could reach the Platinum tier, that would be even better. But with less than three days until the end of Christmas holidays, it would probably be difficult.
Ciel shook his head, dismissing distracting thoughts, and threw himself maniacally into spell practice. The wand continued moving. The silver luster on the Levitation Charm slowly grew from dim to gradually more intense. But compared to the rapid advancement from Bronze to Silver, Silver to Gold was obviously not so easy. It might require several times more practice for the same progress.
Without the system panel to visually see the luster gradually intensifying, even Ciel might not feel the subtle progress of each practice. But looking at the system panel, he felt like he was filling an upgrade progress bar. Each bit of increased luster gave him a sense of reward.
What was putting in several times more effort? Even at this hearing, even with a crowd watching, after overcoming initial awkwardness and discomfort, Ciel quickly drove all irrelevant thoughts from his mind. Making progress, becoming stronger... everything on the path was scenery!
Time passed by hours. In a blink, another ten hours had passed. It was now deep night. Though the hearing venue remained brightly lit, even the distinguished guests and newspaper reporters were yawning continuously. Tea and coffee flowed like water. But drowsiness still surged unstoppably.
Through bleary vision, they could still see Ciel methodically waving his wand, exactly as he had thirteen hours ago. He even wore a smile, showing a very happy, satisfied expression.
Even reporters accustomed to all-nighters felt horrified. "What? Being such a workaholic at eleven? Merlin above. He must never enter journalism after graduation... wouldn't that kill everyone with competition?!"
Meanwhile, everyone looked at Umbridge on stage with gloating expressions. Umbridge was now in a daze. Her hand felt like it wasn't her own anymore. Besides soreness, she felt nothing. Heavy as if filled with lead.
But under the contract's power, every time Ciel waved his wand, Umbridge had to write "fairness." Ten hours without a moment's rest. Ciel hadn't even had a grain of rice or drop of water. So Umbridge couldn't either. She swore that even when tormented by superiors, it had never been this bad!
What made her more desperate was that this situation had no visible end. Fortunately, ten minutes later, Ciel suddenly stopped. On the system panel, the Levitation Charm glowed with golden light. It was just one step away from full Gold tier. But this final gap left Ciel pondering for a long time without figuring out what was missing.
Until Professor Flitwick at the hearing couldn't help calling out. "Ciel. Think about what I taught in class about the background of the Levitation Charm's creation. Think carefully."
Ciel was stunned. The Levitation Charm was created when Earl Elber accidentally discovered strange plants growing in cloud layers. What connection did this have with Professor Flitwick's hint? Countless thoughts flashed through his mind.
Then another magical history expert present spoke up. "Earl Elber's voyage. Flight accident? At that moment, he saw the Elber Tree in the clouds, and he was about to fall down. What do you think he was thinking? With what feelings did he create the Levitation Charm?"
Hearing this, a lightning bolt flashed through Ciel's mind. He exclaimed excitedly. "He wanted to fly! He wanted to drift and fly like a feather. He wanted to avoid harm from gravity!"
When Ciel spoke these words, many renowned wizards at the hearing, including some master-level figures, showed gratified smiles. Whether it was Professor Flitwick or the magical history expert who had just guided Ciel, they laughed heartily.
The next moment, Ciel closed his eyes. Not just lightness. He wanted to imagine himself as a feather in a storm. Light, unhurt, freed from gravity's influence.
"Wingardium Leviosa!"
Light magic burst forth. Light as a feather. The Levitation Charm was then completely covered in gold. Gold tier! Ciel took a light breath. Now the Levitation Charm matched his other spells' mastery. He looked gratefully at Professor Flitwick and the magical history expert. Without their hints, he might have been stuck for quite a while.
At this time, Ciel looked at the wizards attending the hearing with fervent eyes. He suddenly felt this hearing might not be such a bad thing after all. At least most invitees were prominent wizards. Many were master-level beings. Some might have Epic-tier mastery in certain spells. And they covered various fields.
Wasn't this a perfect opportunity for consultation? Ciel immediately asked several magical questions that had puzzled him. The attendees looked at each other, then many smiled wryly. Seeing Ciel's fervent gaze, they understood this youth wasn't showing off but truly wanted to understand these problems.
"The Sprout family really produced a studious child... Well. Since we're here, shouldn't those who excel in these areas answer?"
Several wizards gave their insights. On some issues, everyone agreed. On others, they argued endlessly. Some even erupted in fierce disputes on-site. Until finally, a master pointed out errors in certain views or explained that seemingly opposite views were actually shallow expressions of the same deep principle, ultimately leading to the same destination.
The original hearing felt like it was becoming an academic conference. Ciel's eyes shone as he absorbed these excellent wizards' insights like a thirsty sponge. On his system panel, just like seeing the Half-Blood Prince's textbook for the first time, all spells burst with bright luster. And all were visibly becoming more intense. Even Platinum-tier spells became more brilliant in the heated discussions.
Finally, Ciel asked about his confusion after having several Platinum-tier spells. "I have one last question. Why do spells that reach high levels gradually shift from macroscopic expression to microscopic? If we continue down this path, what will magic ultimately become?"
Everyone fell into astonishment. Someone said wryly. "First-year students are now dealing with such questions? Compared to this, what was I thinking about in school? People really can't be compared."
Looking at Ciel, they all felt deeply moved. Was his talent good? Not really. They could see clearly from his earlier practice. But the questions Ciel asked showed his magical understanding had reached a certain level. Several spells probably deserved to be called profound mastery. This had nothing to do with talent. It was just that Ciel's effort far exceeded their imagination. How much hardship must it take to walk this far on magic's path with such talent?
As for how to answer this question, even spell masters like Professor Flitwick shook their heads, finally looking at Dumbledore. If anyone in the magical world could know the scenery Ciel asked about, it would probably only be Dumbledore.
Dumbledore now looked at Ciel with complex eyes. He truly appreciated this student. Professor Sprout's determination to obtain talent-enhancing potions at any cost... if Ciel could break free from talent limitations, with his current performance, he would definitely soar!
Then Dumbledore answered his question. "Your question is excellent. From macroscopic to microscopic, this is indeed how magical mastery deepens. In this process, you'll discover many things completely contrary to previous magical common sense. Magic gradually becomes more profound, obscure, and interesting. It also gradually approaches its chaotic essence... bizarre and impossible to think about with normal logic. This is why so many wizards, as they delve deeper into magic, become unreasonable and gradually insane."
Dumbledore paused, pushing his glasses. "Of course. Don't think my various behaviors are due to this. I'm just naturally a bit solitary. Please understand that a centenarian has his own unique quirks."
Then he returned to the topic, his expression becoming serious and grave. "As for what lies at the end of this path. Honestly, I'd love to answer this question. But my answer is... I don't know. Because I'm still walking the path, and I'm far from the destination. But I think if one word could describe the scenery at the end. It might be... God? The Absolute Truth, as alchemy calls it. Or call Him whatever."
Dumbledore sighed. "In any case, it would definitely be an incredible sight." He looked at Ciel encouragingly. "Perhaps someday. Ciel, you could see it yourself and come back to tell your headmaster."
Ciel's heart stirred slightly. From Dumbledore's description, he could gather some information. Could what Dumbledore described be what spells looked like after reaching Mythical tier? Some incredible magic in the wizarding world, like the Deathly Hallows, Death... were they all related to Mythical-tier magic?
Ciel showed anticipation. Though currently his highest spells were only Platinum tier, still far from Mythical tier, continuing to stack up, Mythical tier wasn't impossible someday!
But soon, his thoughts returned from fantasy to reality. The road still had to be walked step by step. But then his gaze fell on the system panel, and his breathing stopped, showing wild joy.
On the system panel, Platinum and Gold light blazed. The Soil-Loosening Charm, which was already near Platinum tier, actually advanced directly after this exchange. Other Platinum-tier spells... Lumos and Pruning Charms... also gained huge benefits. Platinum light was nearly half more intense than before.
Even Levicorpus and Sectumsempra made remarkable progress. The newly advanced Gold-tier Levitation Charm progressed dramatically. In the rich golden light, specks of platinum light faintly appeared. It had reached the threshold of the Platinum tier!
Ciel felt that if he could fully digest the insights and understanding from that discussion, the Platinum-tier Levitation Charm wouldn't be difficult! Then he didn't hesitate at all. He immediately gripped his wand again and resumed practicing the Levitation Charm.
This scene made the masters who had just guided Ciel both gratified and a bit envious. This child was good in every way. Why wasn't he from their family? Or their student? The masters all had the same thought. Perhaps they were usually too lenient in their requirements.
"Should hold them to Ciel's standard. If a first-year can be so diligent. Why can't they? Too many holidays. Should make them return to labs now!"
Umbridge on stage sank into deeper despair. Due to the contract magic, even when Ciel stopped moving and waving his wand, as long as he didn't sleep, she couldn't sleep. Even though drowsiness made her eyelids fight, an invisible force kept pulling her to stay awake.
Now seeing Ciel energetically start practicing again, Umbridge finally understood. Ciel really didn't need sleep! Her heart was covered in deep chill. She finally figured it out. From the beginning, this young wizard was setting traps for her. His purpose was simple... punishment. Revenge!
At this time, Umbridge saw the mocking look Ciel gave her before diving into practice. Her expression became twisted and ferocious. This naturally evil Hufflepuff brat! Umbridge gritted her teeth, trying to hold on.
But when Ciel waved his wand and her arm was pulled by contract magic's power, her arm, which had just relaxed briefly, was suddenly swept by soreness again. That feeling was like every muscle fiber wailing and trembling. Plus hunger, thirst, and fatigue. And Umbridge had overestimated herself.
She had lived comfortably for many years. Though she could once endure two days and nights to get ahead, now, after just fifteen hours, she had reached her limit. After all, being cruel to others was easy. Being cruel to oneself was very hard.
Moments later, Umbridge couldn't help but wail. "End it. Please end it. I admit the evidence is insufficient. I admit the academic unfairness charges are biased. Stop, please stop."
With Umbridge's pleas and wails, the contract magic immediately took effect. The next moment, "fairness" was harshly branded on her palm. Bright red. Striking. Pain to the bone. Umbridge couldn't help but scream. Only then did the contract magic's power disappear. Umbridge finally fainted.
Ciel clicked his tongue. "That's it?"
He looked at the iron-faced Cornelius Fudge. "Minister Fudge. Is your Ministry's work usually too relaxed? Only fifteen hours of overtime, and I felt like I was just warming up, but Ms. Umbridge couldn't take it. So delicate, how can she serve the wizarding world?"
Fudge almost couldn't catch his breath. He clenched his fists. Today's farce had thoroughly embarrassed the Ministry. Meanwhile, Fudge was thoroughly fed up with Umbridge. This toad. How could she only last this long?
If she could have lasted two more days until Christmas holidays ended, at least it would have shown Ministry leadership's strength. Only fifteen hours? Useless thing!
But soon, Fudge had to bury his resentment deep. No matter how much he hated her, Fudge still had to force a smile. "It seems... It seems the charges against Professor Sprout were a complete misunderstanding. I apologize to Professor Sprout on behalf of the Ministry. We acted out of wanting to maintain academic justice and create a good educational environment for the children."
Professor Sprout said nothing. She just rose from her seat and walked to Ciel. Then she gave him a fierce hug. In his ear, Professor Sprout choked up. "Ciel. Don't take such risks again. Just do what you like... farming is enough. Aunt can handle everything else."
Ciel gently shook his head. "I'm afraid of trouble with other things, so I definitely won't get involved. But Aunt, your troubles are my troubles. Whoever bothers you, I'll never let them off."
Then he smiled. "Besides, didn't everything work out fine? Everything went smoothly."
Professor Sprout forced a smile, but worry remained in her eyes. This time, they had offended Minister Fudge badly. And Umbridge. Her political career was probably over. From Professor Sprout's brief contact with her, she wouldn't be surprised if Umbridge did something crazy.
But moments later, Professor Sprout's eyes showed sharp determination. No matter who threatened Ciel, they should prepare to face her endless fury.
"Now, Ciel. Let's go home. This Christmas holiday has been terrible enough. Fortunately, we still have two peaceful days."
Ciel nodded. Before disappearing with Professor Sprout, he remembered something and quickly turned to Dumbledore. "Headmaster! The Ministry promised compensation; you must help me get justice!"
Dumbledore chuckled, then looked sharply at Fudge. "Minister Fudge. Regarding compensation for the Sprout family and what we discussed earlier. We need to have a good talk."
Fudge's expression darkened. He understood that this time the Ministry hadn't just lost face but would probably have to pay dearly. Thinking this, Fudge gritted his teeth.
Ciel Sprout, that damned little badger. I'll remember you!
However, Ciel, who had returned to the Sprout family home, wouldn't care even if he knew about Fudge's resentment. He had just landed when his gaze fixed on the greenhouse direction. There, reward orbs floated and sank. Heavy, like ripe fruit. Gathered together, like an ocean.
Ciel took a deep breath. "Marguerites. They're mature."
[Chapter Complete]
***
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