Talking Harry Through It

"Fear is normal. Sometimes death isn't the scariest thing," Will said. "The feeling of waiting to die is."

That's why you reacted this way; it's perfectly normal.

"I thought I was a coward."

"If you're considered cowardly, then there are very few people in the Wizarding World who can be called 'strong.' How many people could face death so calmly in that situation?"

Dumbledore handled this matter rather poorly; it's fortunate it was Harry, otherwise, wouldn't that have driven the person to a dead end?

Letting someone know in advance that they are going to die is tantamount to telling them to wait for death; it's almost the most desperate thing imaginable.

Anyone who didn't know better would think Harry and Dumbledore had a grudge.

"Harry, actually, if you need it, I can use Memory Charm to help you forget this memory."

Harry's expression wavered, as if he was considering the feasibility of the idea, but he ultimately shook his head.

"No, Will, I can't do this. I have to face this."

Even if it's extremely painful?

"Even if it's painful," Harry looked up, "I still have to face it all eventually. It's my destiny, and I can't escape it."

Will nodded. "Well then, I won't hide anything from you anymore; Harry, I can tell you, I'm studying Soul Studies specifically to deal with this matter."

Harry was a little confused. "Wait... what? Soul Studies? Dealing with my affairs? What is Soul Studies? You already know?"

Will said seriously, "Of course, Harry, I know more than you think; as for Soul Studies, it's a subject that doesn't exist in any school curriculum."

This is an extremely niche field of study, with very little information available and few Wizard researching it, but it is closely related to many things in the Wizarding World.

Horcrux are also a branch of Soul Studies.

"But Will, how... how did you know about me?" Harry was completely bewildered, his expression confused. "And why didn't you tell me? Why didn't you—"

Will waved his hand, interrupting Harry: "I can't tell you, Harry; what do you want me to say? Like Professor Dumbledore, tell you you're going to die? Let you wait to die?"

I can't do something so cruel, Harry. I can only try to study the Soul Studies and find a way to save you. You're my friend, and I can't watch you die.

Do you understand? You're my friend, my brother, I have to do this! Even if there's only the slightest hope, I have to try.

Harry stared blankly at Will, never expecting Will to say such a thing. For a moment, Harry forgot to ask Will how he knew about his affairs. Harry just felt dizzy, never imagining that Will had done so much for him behind the scenes.

Harry stammered, unable to speak for a long time, but Will didn't rush him.

[Someone feels immense gratitude towards you, Charisma Experience +3]

[Someone feels immense gratitude towards you, Charisma Experience +3]

Your Charisma has reached its pinnacle in this world.

[Your Charisma cannot be directly increased to LV7]

Will was used to this; he had encountered this situation countless times recently, and every time he opened the panel, it was this kind of message that popped up.

Sensing Harry's turbulent emotions, Strange's voice echoed in Harry's mind, "Will is a loyal friend, Harry; he has been doing his best to help you."

You have to trust Will; he's a genius, and he might very well be able to figure out a way to help you.

Harry gradually realized what was happening when he heard Mr. Strange's voice.

"Will, I'm so sorry, you've given up your study time for me..."

"Don't say that," Will raised his hand, "I've been studying all along, and I already self-studied the seventh-year curriculum at Hogwarts a long time ago."

If you truly feel guilty towards me, trust me and stop worrying about dying.

Harry nodded. "Will, with a friend like you, I would have no regrets even if I died."

Harry was telling the truth; he never imagined anyone would go to such lengths for him.

"Let's stop saying things like that," Will, standing up. "If you can handle it psychologically, then take a few days off and go back to class as usual. If you still find it too painful, just come to me, and I can help you erase your memories."

I'm going to have dinner with Professor Slughorn now.

"I'll get used to it," Harry said. "Thanks, Will."

"Don't say that, I'm going to Professor Slughorn's place now."

Harry nodded and watched Will leave, his expression suggesting he was about to cry.

"Alright," Strange said to the stunned Harry, "Will is that kind of guy, always thinking about his friends."

If you really want to repay him, you need to take care of yourself first.

"If I had the chance, I would do anything for Will to repay him," Harry said firmly.

Will pushed open the door to Slughorn's Office, looking apologetic. "Professor, I'm sorry, I just went to Harry's place, so I'm a little late."

A huge table sat in the Office, on which were laid out more than a dozen dishes, including Wellington steak, grilled turbot, Dorset crab salad, and Coronation Chicken.

"Don't say that, Will," Slughorn quickly stood up, "You care about your friend, I must add two points to your virtue. Sit down, let's talk."

Will sat down, Slughorn immediately poured him a glass of bright red Grape Juice.

"Try it quickly, this is non-alcoholic Grape Juice that I specially asked someone to get from the Runosier Magic Winery in Italy..."

Slughorn's attitude even seemed somewhat... ingratiating?

"That's really great, thank you, Professor. By the way, what is it you'd like to ask?"

Slughorn shook his head. "No rush, how's Harry?"

He only realized Will's expression had turned serious after he asked the question...