Chapter 627: The Gap Between Wizards
"As much as I hate to admit it, it's true," Cedric said with a grin, looking at the wide-eyed disbelief on Harry, Ron, and Hermione's faces. "Kyle learned the sixth-year Transfiguration curriculum back in our third year during the Transfiguration Club. At the time, everyone, including Professor McGonagall, thought it was incredible."
"That's why she decided to recommend Kyle to Transfiguration Today," Kanna added.
She gave a knowing nod, recalling how Kyle had brewed the Draught of Living Death during their Advanced Potion-Making class that same year. The feat had left a lasting impression on her—and resulted in her spending her Christmas holidays cramming with Snape to catch up.
Harry and Ron exchanged incredulous looks, their expressions now even more bewildered. It was clear they were both thinking the same thing:
We need to leave—right now.
Although they had always known the gap between themselves and Kyle was vast, seeing that disparity laid out so blatantly was demoralizing. How could the difference between wizards be so enormous? They both regretted coming with Hermione.
"That's why I've said I'm not suited to teaching others," Kyle continued, unfazed by their reactions. "Cedric, on the other hand, has always been at the top of his year. He's got straight O's in all his subjects and earned a perfect score in the O.W.L. Use of Charms. He's exceptionally well-rounded in both practical and theoretical magic."
"And he's already experienced in teaching. Cedric often helps younger students in the common room. If you're looking for a student to teach, there's no one better than him."
Cedric sighed, clearly unamused by the glowing endorsement. "I feel like you're just praising yourself in disguise," he muttered. "If you can master something after hearing it once, I have to go through it step by step."
"Don't worry about the details," Kyle replied with a playful smile. "What, you don't want to teach them?"
"That's not it," Cedric said, shaking his head. "If someone's willing to listen, I'm happy to help."