"HP: Too Late, System!"Chapter 380: Professor Sprout's Thoughtful Care
A knock sounded at the office door.
"Come in."
The door swung open to admit an elderly man in a simple gray robe, his thin face set off by eyes that gleamed with remarkable vitality. In his hand, he carried a wand of olive wood, its tip set with a rough piece of amber.
"Ah, Master Antonio!"
Minister Alberti rose at once, a rare, genuine smile lighting his features. "What brings you here in person?"
He turned to introduce the newcomer. "Professor Holmes, Mr. Lupin—this is Master Antonio Vivaldi. He's one of the most celebrated experts in Potions and Herbology in all of Italy—indeed, the entire magical world. He was also among the earliest advocates for the Mountain Covenant."
He paused, then added, "Master Antonio is held in the highest regard among many werewolf tribes and even Muggle shepherds throughout the Apennines. By the way, Professor Sprout wrote to him recently, mentioning you, Professor Holmes. The Master actually asked me about you."
Master Antonio gave a slight nod, his gaze sweeping over Douglas and Lupin before settling with a flicker of approval on Douglas.
"So you're the promising young man Pomona wrote about. I thought it'd be some time before we met, but you've arrived in Rome sooner than I expected. Since you're someone Pomona values, and you're heading to the Apennines, I'd be remiss not to offer what help I can."
Douglas raised his eyebrows, surprise flashing in his eyes. He hadn't anticipated meeting such a legendary figure here—let alone learning that his old Head of House had quietly written on his behalf. The thought filled him with a gentle warmth.
"Professor Sprout always thinks of her students," Douglas said sincerely to Master Antonio. "She's always paving the way for us, quietly behind the scenes."
"Master Vivaldi, I've heard Professor Sprout at Hogwarts praise your contributions to herbology for years."
Master Antonio let out a hearty laugh, then shifted the conversation. "I hear you're traveling to help the Ashclaw Tribe in the Apennines? The region's environment is complex. I have a few old herb distribution maps of the mountains—perhaps they'll be useful in refining your potions."
He produced a small but weighty leather pouch from his billowing sleeves and handed it to Douglas. "Apart from those, you'll find some specially crafted beast-repelling incense and several common antidotes—good for dealing with mountain pests and certain minor magical curses."
He paused, then drew a letter sealed with red wax from his robes. "I've met Marco, the current Ashclaw chieftain, a few times—we're on friendly terms. This is my personal letter. Bring it with you; it may help you win their trust more quickly."
Douglas accepted the pouch and letter, feeling their reassuring weight in his hands. He understood—there were likely those within Ashclaw who doubted him, and this invitation was probably only from the chieftain himself. With Master Antonio's reputation, this letter could open doors that might otherwise stay shut.
"Thank you, Master, for your generous support."
Master Antonio waved away the thanks, glancing at the silent Isabella as his sleeves fluttered. "Werewolves are part of our magical world, too. They shouldn't be treated like this. The Vatican's actions have crossed a line."
He looked earnestly at Douglas and Lupin. "If you run into trouble in the mountains—anything you can't solve, or if you need me to step in—just ask. No need for formality."
Lupin listened quietly, the presence of this legendary Potions Master and his forthright support easing the tension that had been wound tight in him for days. At least, they weren't alone in this fight.
Minister Alberti stood to the side, his smile unchanged as he watched the exchange. But deep in his eyes, something complex flickered—hard to read, impossible to pin down. Master Antonio's public backing had undoubtedly lent enormous weight to Holmes's mission, and made the outcome far harder to predict.
Alberti stroked his chin thoughtfully. It seemed the time had come to set certain plans in motion—whether to maintain control, or, when the moment came… to claim a share of the spoils.
"Well then, Professor Holmes, Mr. Lupin." Alberti resettled himself in his chair, leaning back. "Everything that needed saying has been said. I wish you both… the best of luck."
His tone was smooth, the practiced ambiguity of a politician—leaving it impossible to know how much was genuine, and how much calculation.
Douglas and the others left the Minister's office together with Master Antonio. The moment they stepped outside, it was as if that air—bitter with espresso and heavy with unspoken pressure—was sealed behind them. Even the corridor's breeze seemed lighter, freer.
Lorenzo and Isabella exchanged a glance. Lorenzo gave Douglas and Lupin a nod, worry lingering in his eyes, then hurried away with Isabella to prepare the next steps.
Master Antonio didn't leave immediately. He walked a short distance with Douglas and Lupin. "The nights in the Apennines are nothing like the Forbidden Forest at Hogwarts. The magic there is older, wilder. Be careful, child."
He patted Douglas on the shoulder, his gaze warm and steady, then nodded to Lupin. "My potions and herbs await me, so I'll take my leave. If you need me, just use that letter—the Mountain Covenant will know how to find me."
"Thank you for the advice, Master. We'll be careful."
Douglas inclined his head, watching the respected elder's silhouette vanish around the bend.
Just then, a slightly hoarse, disgruntled voice broke the brief calm behind them. "Mr. Holmes, the Minister has new instructions."
Piero had somehow followed them out, his face as unreadable as ever, those small, sharp eyes locked on Douglas.
Douglas turned, one eyebrow arched, his tone calm and even. "Oh? What else does Minister Alberti require?"
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