Chapter 549: Runes and Magic
The eighth floor of the castle.
Kyle had visited the Headmaster's office many times before. With practiced ease, he located the Gargoyle statue with the water spout and confidently spoke the password.
The statue sprang aside, revealing the passageway behind it.
Inside the office, Dumbledore was engrossed in searching the bookshelf. At the sound of the door opening, he turned his head, his expression brightening.
"I do hope my invitation didn't disturb you," he said warmly. "But please, wait a moment—I believe I'm about to find it... Ah, here it is."
He pulled a slim booklet from the shelf, his eyes twinkling. "I think it's time we honored our previous agreement," he said with a smile. "Remember? Back in the cave, I promised to teach you a spell."
"Of course, I haven't forgotten." Kyle's excitement was palpable, though it was quickly followed by a tinge of doubt. "But, Professor, do you have time now? I mean... the Philosopher's Stone."
"Creating the Philosopher's Stone is destined to be a long process, Kyle," Dumbledore explained patiently. "After the preparations are complete, there's little more we can do but wait. All we can do now is remain patient."
"This period, however, is an excellent opportunity for me to fulfill my promise. I had intended to teach you at the beginning of the school year, but I kept postponing it. I imagine you must have grown quite impatient."
Kyle didn't reply but gave a small nod, which Dumbledore took as agreement. Truthfully, Kyle had been impatient, though he'd hesitated to bring it up. Dumbledore had always seemed preoccupied, especially after Nicolas Flamel's visit.
"Forgive my curiosity, but why do you wish to learn the Firestorm Charm? Oh—well, that is its name," Dumbledore said, studying Kyle closely. "To explore the mysteries of magic? Or to pursue powerful magic?"