"Good evening, boss!"
Ian's face lit up with a smile at the familiar sound of Aberforth's voice. He quickened his pace, heading straight to the bar where Aberforth was waiting.
The older man had just finished pouring a glass of blue, frost-tipped wine.
"Ian, come here," Aberforth called, waving him over eagerly. "This is a new wine I've been working on. Tell me what you think."
Aberforth cared deeply for Ian. Over the past five or six years, the boy had become like a son to him. If he hadn't already had a son of his own, Ian would have filled that role easily. Even raising a stray cat for so many years would have built a strong bond—let alone raising a person.
Ian smiled brightly and took the glass without hesitation. Blowing gently to dispel the white mist curling above the drink, he examined the blue liquid inside with curiosity before taking a cautious sip.
The cold liquid slid down his throat, filling his mouth with a rich fruity aroma that seemed to ignite every taste bud. Ian closed his eyes, savoring the sensation before finally setting the glass down.
"Boss, this wine is excellent," he said, nodding in appreciation. "It's definitely your work—refined and unique."
"You've used blue jade fruit as the main ingredient, haven't you? And blended it with fruit wine made from other magical fruits," Ian continued thoughtfully. "The aroma is strong, but it doesn't overwhelm, and it clears the mind rather than intoxicating. It's incredible."
His tone turned a bit regretful. "But I don't think ordinary wizards will appreciate it. Most of them prefer drinks that leave them drunk and lightheaded."
Aberforth chuckled. "You're right, Ian," he admitted, leaning on the counter. "But this isn't for ordinary wizards."
A mysterious smile crept onto his face. "This is for wizards who practice meditation. Lockhart mentioned during his announcements that wizards practicing meditation should avoid alcohol altogether to keep their minds clear."
Ian nodded in agreement. "Our instructor told us the same thing. Alcohol not only dulls the mind but can amplify emotions, making it harder to focus. For those practicing meditation, it can disrupt the runes formed deep within their minds. That's why most of us drink tea instead."
Aberforth sighed and shook his head. "Exactly. But, Ian, what happens to bars like mine if everyone starts practicing meditation and stops drinking? If I keep making wine the old way, who'll come here anymore?"
His eyes gleamed with determination. "That's why I started experimenting with wines that cater to meditating wizards. Something that enhances their clarity instead of clouding it. If I can get it right, I might even gain more customers than before."
Ian gave him a thumbs-up. "Boss, your vision is as sharp as ever," he said with genuine admiration. "If you perfect this kind of wine, I'll bring all my classmates here. You'll have more business than you'll know what to do with."
Aberforth laughed, his rough voice carrying a note of pride. "That'll be the day, then," he said.
His expression turned serious as he leaned closer. "Ian, to be honest, I've only heard bits and pieces about this meditation method. I've tried practicing the basics myself, but it didn't do much for me. Maybe I was doing it wrong. Is there anything important I should know, especially about what to avoid?"
Pausing, Aberforth added, "And if there's a meditation method better suited for someone like me, I'd love to learn it."
Ian's expression shifted slightly at the question, becoming more guarded. As one of Lockhart's most valued students, he had undergone extensive training in confidentiality. But he also knew Aberforth cared for him deeply and had always supported him.
Aberforth noticed the change in Ian's demeanor and smiled gently. "If it's too much to share, don't worry about it," he said lightly. "I can always ask Lockhart myself when I see him."
The older man's words made Ian pause. He knew Aberforth wasn't pressuring him, but his mentor's training echoed in his mind. After a moment of thought, Ian decided to share what he could.
"Boss, there's nothing too secret about it," Ian began cautiously. "Once the school officially opens, this knowledge will be taught widely. And I heard my instructor is working on a book about meditation specifically for adult wizards. Once it's published, I'll make sure you get a copy."
Aberforth nodded, listening intently.
Ian continued, "The key to meditation is maintaining inner emptiness. Clarity and reason are crucial, especially in the early stages. That's why drinking is discouraged—it clouds judgment and disrupts focus."
"Additionally, the type of spells you practice matters. Meditation methods are designed to complement specific kinds of magic. Using mismatched spells can cause conflicts, affecting both your meditation and your magic."
Aberforth took in every word, setting aside his wine glass in favor of tea as Ian spoke.
The two continued their conversation late into the night. Wizards came and went, but Ian and Aberforth remained at the bar, their discussion spanning hours and several cups of tea.
As dawn approached, Ian finally rose to leave. He bid Aberforth farewell, promising to visit again soon, and stepped out into the cool night air.
Aberforth watched him go, a bittersweet expression on his face. He poured himself another drink, sipping it slowly.
"Ian's going to be something special," Aberforth muttered to himself. "But I doubt he'll have much time for this old bar anymore. Not with Dumbledore constantly meddling."
He sighed deeply. Despite his gruff exterior, Aberforth had always looked out for Ian, but he knew the boy's path was leading him toward greater things—and away from the quiet life of the Hog's Head.
With a wry smile, Aberforth muttered, "Maybe it's time for me to take a break, too. A trip to the States might do me some good. I should visit Aurelius while I'm at it."
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