NOVEL NEXT Chapter 20: Chapter 20: The Person You Speak of Must Be a Peerless Master
Snape's expression was grim.
He had been deeply engrossed in Charlie's theories
So much so that when Sprout came to see him, he hadn't responded.
But as time passed
He gradually calmed down.
When he reached for the manuscript to continue reading
He realized that some pages were missing.
That was when he recalled Sprout visiting him earlier.
He had been too preoccupied with absorbing the knowledge to entertain her.
In his memory
Sprout had seemed rather excited
And had taken some of his papers.
That was why Snape had come to her office.
As soon as he opened the door
His missing manuscript was the first thing he saw.
A hint of anger flickered in his eyes.
"Professor Sprout, taking my work without my permission, isn't that a bit rude?"
"Oh, I'm terribly sorry, Professor Snape," Sprout replied with an apologetic smile.
"But I hope you understand, this was beyond my control."
"Your research and breakthroughs are simply too astonishing."
"You know how we magic scholars are, we can't resist discoveries like these."
"So please forgive my intrusion, your achievement is truly extraordinary."
Sprout explained earnestly.
Snape frowned slightly.
At that moment, Weiss stood up and extended a hand toward him.
"Lord Snape, I've long heard of your reputation. I am Weiss, the editor-in-chief of Magical Research."
Snape's expression shifted subtly at those words.
This man
Had actually come to Hogwarts.
"Please pardon my forwardness, but I would like to publish parts of your research in Magical Research."
"This would be a monumental contribution to the entire magical world."
"Everyone will remember your greatness."
"Such a magnificent advancement in Defense Against the Dark Arts!"
Snape remained silent
His expression conflicted.
If this research had been solely his own
Out of respect for magic and the pursuit of truth
He would have had no hesitation in publishing it in Magical Research
To benefit the entire wizarding world.
And, in doing so, his name would go down in history.
But the situation was different now.
This wasn't his discovery.
It was Charlie's.
And Charlie was just a child.
If his identity were exposed
He could face unimaginable dangers.
Some ill-intentioned Dark wizards might even target him
Or worse, abduct him.
Forcing Him to Conduct Research and More...
These were all scenarios Snape did not want to see.
Deep down
He felt a sense of elder-like care toward Charlie.
"Apologies. This research is not mine, so I cannot make the decision on his behalf."
After struggling internally for a while
Snape finally spoke.
His expression was pained, filled with regret.
After all, this theory and its practical applications were a groundbreaking breakthrough in the academic world.
"What? None of this is your work?"
Weiss was visibly shocked.
Meanwhile, Sprout could no longer hold back.
Her mind raced.
If this wasn't Snape's research
Then whose was it?
Dumbledore?
No, that couldn't be right, she recognized Dumbledore's handwriting.
And if it were Dumbledore's research, he would have openly shared it.
"Not your research…"
Weiss pondered for a moment.
Then, he began pacing back and forth
As if deep in thought.
"The person you speak of must be a legend, right?"
"A true master of the craft!"
"A hidden sage!"
"Yes, that must be it! He doesn't want fame to bring him unnecessary trouble!"
"Of course, of course, that's how legendary figures operate!"
"I was being too rash, I shouldn't have pushed like this."
Weiss muttered to himself.
Then, he turned back to Snape.
"Lord Snape, how about this?"
"I will publish part of this research in Magical Research."
"However, I will credit it anonymously, ensuring that this master remains completely undisturbed."
"Of course, the compensation will be substantial, I will entrust it to you to deliver to him."
"And please, send him my regards."
"What do you think?"
Weiss's eyes were filled with sincerity.
Snape hesitated
After all
He wasn't someone who liked to keep magical discoveries hidden.
This was a breakthrough that could benefit the entire wizarding world.
Snape pondered for a long time.
After confirming multiple times that no information about the person would be exposed
He finally agreed to Weiss's request.
Seeing Snape nod
Weiss let out an excited scream.
He practically roared with joy.
"My god! In my lifetime, I get to witness something this incredible!"
"This will make Magical Research a publication of legend!"
"That master is truly extraordinary! I extend my gratitude on behalf of the entire magical community!"
Before anyone could react
Weiss grabbed Snape and rushed to his office.
He needed to make excerpts
And carefully select which parts could be published within Snape's allowed range.
Time was of the essence
Delays could lead to unexpected complications.
That was Weiss's approach to everything.
Half a day passed.
Weiss had finished all his preparations.
He expressed his gratitude to Snape with unrestrained enthusiasm.
"The great Lord Snape, the magical world will never forget your contributions!"
"Please, send my regards to that master."
"And of course, if you could arrange for me to meet him, I would be eternally grateful."
Snape immediately shook his head.
The last thing he wanted
Was for Charlie's existence to be exposed at this stage.
Unless one day
Charlie became powerful enough to command respect from the entire magical world.
"Ah, what a pity."
"I extend my deepest gratitude to that master on behalf of the wizarding world."
"May the heavens bless him."
"Oh, by the way, once the publication is released, I will send the compensation to you."
"Please take the trouble to deliver it to that master."
"Thank you, great Lord Snape."