Chapter 91: A Piece of the Play
Lucretius took the hint and turned to leave, closing the office door behind him with careful silence.
Professor Slughorn gestured for Regulus to sit, then leaned forward slightly in his armchair, shortening the distance between them.
Firelight from the hearth reflected across his round face, softening the sharp glint that usually lived in his eyes.
"You're far more mature than most boys your age. I've never regarded you as an ordinary student."
His tone was sincere, threaded with clear approval. "Your talent for potions, your instinct for magic, your composure. All of it surpasses your peers. You'll go very far."
Regulus inclined his head politely. "Thank you, Professor."
"If you ever run into something you can't handle, come to me." Slughorn's smile turned almost smug as he began listing his connections. "I know quite a number of people. Senior officials in the Ministry of Magic, including several deputy heads in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement."
He continued without pause. "Heads of old families too. Abraxas Malfoy. The elder Nott. If I speak up, they'll at least hear me out."
He lifted a finger for emphasis. "Even rare potion ingredients, phoenix tail feathers, Acromantula venom, obscure magical theory. I can usually find a channel. Last year a student wanted to study ancient runes and couldn't locate the proper texts. I had to call in a favor from an acquaintance in the Egyptian magical community."