The Research: Synthesis of Biology and Blood Magic
In the academic year of 1990, while his third-year peers were occupied with the study of Boggarts and Red Caps, Darius Thomas Zogratis embarked on a research project that would redefine magical medicine. Operating within the Restricted Section and the Hogwarts Potions laboratory, Darius approached the "incurable" Maledictus curse—a blood malediction that gradually and permanently transforms its victim into a beast.
Darius's methodology was considered revolutionary, as it bridged two historically incompatible disciplines:
Muggle Biology: Utilizing foundational knowledge of cellular degradation and genetics acquired during his years in London.
Blood Magic: Despite the deep social stigma and "taboo" nature of the subject, Darius applied clinical detachment to analyze the genetic breakdown of blood curses, treating the malady as a biological error rather than a divine or dark destiny.
The Breakthrough: The "Zogratis Restoration"
Historically, the Maledictus curse was viewed as a slow death of the human identity. Darius's solution, now known as the Zogratis Restoration, was not a mere palliative treatment but a curative synthesis.
The resulting potion did more than halt the transformation; it actively repaired the victim's magical DNA. By restructuring the blood at a molecular level, Darius provided a way for those afflicted to reclaim their humanity permanently.
The discovery had profound global implications, significantly reducing the risk of accidental magical exposure caused by uncontrolled beast transformations—a major victory for the International Statute of Wizarding Secrecy.
Recognition: Order of Merlin, First Class
The impact of the Zogratis Restoration was so immediate that Albus Dumbledore convened an emergency session of the International Confederation of Wizards (ICW) and the Wizengamot. For the second time in two years, the wizarding world stood in awe of a miracle performed by a teenager.
For his contributions to the welfare of magical beings and the advancement of Potions, Darius was awarded the Order of Merlin, First Class. The green ribbon, typically reserved for a lifetime of service or unparalleled acts of bravery, was presented to Darius while he was still a student—an event unprecedented in the history of the Ministry of Magic.
The Record: Double Mastery at Age 13
By the conclusion of 1990, at the age of thirteen, Darius Thomas Zogratis held Masteries in both Transfiguration and Potions. In achieving this, he surpassed the historical records of every known wizard in history, including the Hogwarts Founders and Merlin himself.
The Daily Prophet's year-end retrospective famously noted:
"We are no longer witnessing the education of a student; we are witnessing the evolution of magic itself. The boy from the orphanage has become the architect of our future."