The fire went out.
Ian wiped at the nonexistent sweat on his forehead.
"If it weren't for me, this potion would've been ruined!"
Just as those who carried the flame had to bear a torch themselves, those who tended the fire had to bring their own fuel.
Heat control was an art.
Whether cooking ingredients or brewing potions, excellent heat control was always crucial. It was an indispensable element that determined success, failure, victory, and defeat. In short, it was full of responsibility and hardship—or at least, that was what Ian believed. And his Personal Panel happened to align with his values.
Potions Mastery (Level 2) 65/200
Ian had actually been paying attention throughout every stage of the brewing process.
Practice produced true knowledge.
It did not matter how others viewed it. The more than ten points of proficiency he had gained spoke for themselves. All he could say was that this had been an utterly satisfying potion-brewing session!
"We're amazing. We finished first, and this looks like it's great quality."
Ian did not notice Snape's face in the distance, his teeth nearly shattered from gritting them. He began directing Aurora through the final step of the potion brewing.
"Mm, mm."
Following Ian's instructions, Aurora poured the potion into a container. Looking at the fine bottle of Boil-Cure Potion, a satisfied smile appeared on her naturally cool face.
Her first attempt at brewing a potion had been a complete success.
That was a sense of accomplishment.
"You're incredible! I even think we're both future Potions Masters!"
Ian continued providing emotional support.
Aurora truly was excellent at processing ingredients and controlling the brew, but Ian felt that his occasional instructions had definitely played a significant role as well.
Directing someone else to brew a potion.
How could that not count as