Daily Life at Hogwarts - Chapter 3

After Herbert made a call to his father, the elder Anderson was overwhelmed with emotion and announced that he would visit his grandson soon.

Daisy remained furious. With Albert’s coaxing, she refrained from arguing with her husband. The accomplished lawyer couldn’t fathom why her usually astute husband would fall for such a blatant deception, even considering risking their son’s bright future on it.

Nia, in her childlike wonder, bugged Albert about showing her magic.

“I can’t,” Albert replied, spreading his hands in resignation.

Though Albert was familiar with some basic spells like Lumos, he hadn’t tried them, particularly not without a wand. And definitely not in front of others.

“Nia, there’s no such thing as magic. It’s all a ruse,” Daisy asserted, determined not to let her daughter entertain such fantastical thoughts.

“Albert, the letter mentioned you could bring a pet. Are you considering taking Tom with you to school?” Nia asked, holding up their shorthair cat.

“I won’t consider anything until we’re sure magic exists,” Albert replied earnestly, in part to calm his mother who seemed like a ticking bomb.

Suddenly, an owl swooped into the living room through an open window, dropping a parchment on the table.

It read:

“I will visit at 3:20 pm. – Professor McGonagall.”

“3:20 pm?” Albert muttered, glancing at the clock, “It’s almost time.”

As the clock struck 3:20, the doorbell rang.

The Andersons exchanged glances. Herbert, as the head of the family, approached the door with Nia trailing behind. Opening it, he found an elderly woman standing outside.

“Professor McGonagall?” He asked.

“Indeed. May I come in? I believe Albert is expecting me,” she replied.

Nia chimed in, “Do you know magic?”

“That’s why I’m here,” Professor McGonagall said patiently, accustomed to such queries from Muggle-born families.

A puzzled Herbert repeated, “Muggle?”

“It refers to non-magical folk,” Professor McGonagall explained, locking eyes with Albert.

“Greetings, Professor,” Albert nodded, assessing the witch who looked somewhat different from his memories of the Harry Potter movies.

“We’d appreciate a demonstration… of magic,” Daisy offered, pouring a cup of unsweetened tea for the guest.

“Of course, watch closely.” Drawing her wand, McGonagall tapped a teacup, transforming it into a small mouse.

Amazed, Albert picked up the mouse, “That’s truly magical.”

“Is this the extent of magic? I refuse to let Albert waste his time learning these silly tricks. Do you expect him to become a magician?” Daisy challenged, “Sorry, but I’m genuinely concerned about Albert’s future. A diploma from a magic school would be worthless in the real world.”

“Every qualified graduate from Hogwarts can secure a respectable position within the magical community. You needn’t worry,” Professor McGonagall reassured.

Daisy, having witnessed magic firsthand, knew she couldn’t deny its existence. However, she made one last plea, “Albert, I believe Eton is the better choice. It’s a position you earned. If you aspire for a career in finance, Hogwarts is not the place. They wouldn’t appreciate your talents there.”

Herbert glanced at his wife, and with a resigned sigh, recognized Daisy’s clear aversion to the idea of Albert attending Hogwarts.

“Son, make the choice yourself. We’ll respect your decision.”

Professor McGonagall cleared her throat, “Let me be clear. Hogwarts teaches young wizards how to control and harness their magic. Moreover, unchecked magic can lead to rather unfavorable outcomes.”

“Well, it seems I don’t have much choice then!” Albert raised an eyebrow, his decision already made.

“But, Albert…” Daisy tried to protest but was cut off by Nia.

“Miss, can I also go to Hogwarts?”

“Only those who are eleven years old and receive an invitation can attend Hogwarts,” McGonagall gently declined.

“Nia, you’re not eleven yet,” Albert patted his sister’s head and turned to McGonagall, “Where do I purchase my supplies? And how do I get to the train?”

Is that a confirmation?

Relieved, Professor McGonagall explained the general route to the Leaky Cauldron, “You’ll see it, even if the Muggles – that’s non-magical folks – around you can’t. Tom, the bartender, can guide you to Diagon Alley. Platform 9¾ is located between platforms 9 and 10 at King’s Cross Station. Just walk straight through the barrier.”

“A train to a magical school? Isn’t that a bit ridiculous? Did all your magic carpets break or something?” Daisy quipped sharply.

“Daisy.” Herbert coughed lightly, jotting down the details to ensure no key information was missed.

“Until September 1st at Hogwarts then, Mr. Anderson.” Professor McGonagall prepared to leave.

“Professor, could you turn this back?” Albert pointed at the mouse that was once a teacup.

“Oh, of course!” With a flick of her wand, the mouse reverted to its teacup form.

After escorting her out, Professor McGonagall promptly disapparated.

“She vanished?” Herbert looked astonished at the spot where the professor once stood.

“Dad, are we going to London tomorrow?” Albert inquired.

“Oh, yes, we’ll head to London to shop.” Herbert replied in a daze.

“I want to come too,” Nia pleaded, clutching her father’s hand.

“Not this time,” Albert declined, “Let me familiarize myself first. I’ll take you and mum next time. I promise to bring back a gift for you.”

“Ugh, Albert, you’re so annoying!” Nia huffed and stormed off.

Albert shrugged helplessly at Herbert, then turned to head back into the living room, where he faced the task of calming the two most important women in his life.