Apocalypse: I Can Enter Hogwarts

Time often passes unnoticed. While Ian was deep in thought, Professor McGonagall received a letter from Old Tom.

Time always passes by inadvertently. While Ian was lost in thought, Professor McGonagall received a letter from Old Tom.

Looking at the contents of the thin piece of parchment in front of her, she pondered for a moment but did not reply immediately. Instead, she decided to visit the Leaky Cauldron in person to meet the troubled boy Tom had mentioned.

True to her personality, Professor McGonagall was always hands-on with matters concerning her students.

At the Leaky Cauldron, after spending the morning thinking, Ian sat in a corner, enjoying his hard-earned meal while watching the guests come and go. Sitting aside as a quiet observer and secretly analyzing others was one of his few interests.

Green flames flared up in the fireplace, courtesy of the Floo Network. Even though Ian had seen this iconic scene of the wizarding world countless times, it still drew his attention.

With a soft whoosh, a tall woman with a stern and serious expression stepped out of the flames. She wore an emerald green gown and a pointed hat tilted slightly to one side.

After emerging from the fireplace, she walked directly to Old Tom without wasting any time. Her demeanor exuded efficiency and confidence.

"Oh wow, the real boss is here. As expected of Professor McGonagall—she never delays when it comes to important matters."

Despite recognizing her instantly, Ian didn't stand up. After all, he technically "didn't know" Professor McGonagall at this point. Approaching her without context would make things difficult to explain.

In just a few minutes, Old Tom led Professor McGonagall to Ian's table.

"This is the Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts I mentioned earlier—Madam Minerva McGonagall," Tom said with a smile. He turned to McGonagall and added, "And this is the boy from the letter, Ian Titus. I'll leave you two to talk—I have work to attend to."

"Thank you, Tom," Professor McGonagall replied with a nod. "I'll take it from here."

She turned her sharp gaze to Ian, studying him for a moment. Then, as though remembering something, a rare smile softened her stern features. "Hello, Mr. Titus. I believe we've met before—at Madam Malkin's robe shop. If I recall correctly, there were quite a few girls around you at the time."

Ian stood up and gave a slight bow. "Hello, Professor McGonagall. Please, call me Ian. As for our prior meeting, I can only say it's unfortunate I didn't remember you. The environment was chaotic that day."

McGonagall's lips twitched slightly. "Well, Ian, Tom has told me a little about your situation. It seems you're not opposed to attending school, which is rare for someone your age. Most children your age are still consumed by thoughts of holidays." She adjusted her pointed hat. "While Hogwarts attendance isn't mandatory for young wizards who've already demonstrated magical ability, we never turn away students eager to learn.

"At Hogwarts, all you need to focus on is your studies. If you encounter anything difficult, come to me or one of the other professors. No one can harm you here.

"After all, Hogwarts is home to the greatest wizard of this century, Headmaster Dumbledore. Even in the darkest times, Hogwarts has remained a sanctuary."

Her tone carried the resolute confidence of someone speaking for a centuries-old institution. Yet, a glance at her pocket watch revealed how pressed she was for time, with the new term just around the corner.

Seeing this, Ian decided to go straight to the point. "Professor, perhaps Tom didn't explain my situation in detail. When I was supposed to start school, something happened to my family. I've spent the past three years in exile with my mother.

"After she passed away, I was adrift—lost, really. I arrived here a week ago with no clear purpose. What I want to say is—I lack a proper foundation. I likely know far less than a first-year. The past few years have drained me completely."

McGonagall's stern expression softened as she listened, her eyes reflecting a mix of sorrow and determination. "Oh, my dear boy. You've endured so much."

Pausing, she added firmly, "But believe me, Ian—it's over now. At Hogwarts, you'll be safe. No one will harm you here."

Her voice carried unwavering conviction, a beacon of reassurance.

"As for the courses you missed, that's not a problem. While your age prevents us from placing you in a lower grade, I can authorize you to audit first-year classes to catch up. I'll also inform the other professors about your situation. I'm certain they'll be happy to offer individual tutoring to help you bridge the gaps in your knowledge."

Ian nodded, visibly relieved. "Thank you, Professor. That's more than I could have hoped for. I've always been fascinated by magic—I can't wait to learn."

McGonagall regarded the polite young man with approval. "There's one more thing. Before we finalize your enrollment, you'll need to meet Headmaster Dumbledore. While I have the authority to approve your admission, your name isn't recorded in the Book of Admittance. The Headmaster will need to resolve this."

Seeing Ian's agreement, McGonagall rose to her feet decisively. "Let's not delay. We'll use the Floo Network to travel to Hogwarts immediately."

Without further ado, she led Ian to the fireplace, preparing to take him to the castle that would soon become his home.