Chapter 27: An Unexpected Helper
Back in Dumbledore's office, the warmth of the fire crackled softly, casting a golden glow across the room.
Nero sat across from the Headmaster, a steaming cup of tea cradled in his hands.
The intensity of the Room of Requirement seemed a distant memory now, but the weight of their discoveries lingered heavily between them.
Nero took a sip, letting the silence stretch before finally breaking it.
"Though my memories give me a huge edge in some respects," Nero began, setting the cup down carefully, "they're far from everything. If anything, they might even be my greatest weakness."
Dumbledore's gaze was steady, his expression thoughtful as he studied Nero's words.
"A sharp observation," he said, his voice gentle but firm. "The mind, especially one filled with secrets, is both a treasure and a target. I imagine your progress has been hindered by the lack of someone to practice with, someone capable of sending probes and helping you build strong defenses. Occlumency is not a skill that flourishes in isolation."
Nero nodded, his tone somber. "Absolutely. I've been working on meditation and laying the groundwork, but without guidance, I can only get so far. My memories could still be exploited, or worse, extracted. This is part of why I limited going out from Ravenclaw Manor after I recovered my memories. I couldn't risk exposure."
Dumbledore considered this for a moment, his fingers steepling as he leaned back in his chair. "A wise precaution," he said.