The next morning found Eric sweeping the workroom, when a popping noise came from the parlor. Passing through, he found himself facing Albus Dumbledore. "Good morning, Eric. Getting all closed up, I trust?"
Having the Hogwarts Headmaster pop into his shop was a bit disconcerting. "Um, I'm fine, sir. What can I do for you?"
"I've been going over your work last year. It's quite impressive, and I have reason to believe that you've been working on a personal project?" Eric didn't want to know how the Headmaster found out. He produced the diagram for the mnemolodion. Dumbledore examined it at length. "A most impressive pattern. I suppose it's gone, though?"
"It falls apart once the spells that operate it have run it's course. It was either that, or risk injury to the subject."
Dumbledore smiled. "So, as much as I have tried to dissuade you from pursuing this line of inquiry, you have proceeded anyway. It is good to see that you've at least maintained a sense of priorities. So, in the middle of all of this, I hope you've found some time to work on your summer papers?" Eric reached into a wooden box and pulled out a series of bound scrolls. Dumbledore examined them briefly. "I have examined your work from last year, and have decided to give you the opportunity to test out of your classes this year. If you are successful, you will be spending your time instead as a teaching assistant, aiding the instructors while working on more advanced projects. Would you be interested in this opportunity?"
Eric was speechless. Teaching assistants had access to most of the school's resources. The projects that he could work on would be far in advance of the traditional work he was doing. It would mean sacrificing the time he usually spent on his own work, but the opportunity was too great to pass up. "Yes sir, I would be honored."
"I thought you might be. Your instructors will be stopping by to carry out examinations here over the week. Here is a list of items you will need for each test. I wish you the best of luck." Dumbledore smiled again, patted Eric on the shoulder, then disappeared.
Willy came out from a dark corner of the kitchen. "Master Eric, I'm so proud! A teacher's assistant; you'll be an honor to your house!"
Eric looked over to his faithful friend, then handed him the paper Dumbledore gave him. "Well, I haven't passed the tests yet." Grabbing a cloak, he gestured for Willy to follow him. "Come on, we've got a list to fill!"