A New Role, A New Path (I) (CH - 60)

Life for magicals in Europe a thousand years ago was very different. Knowledge was controlled by the wealthy and powerful, while the majority of people turned to religion to explain the mysteries of the world.

Faith guided their decisions, offering comfort but also creating deep divisions. These divisions often led to conflicts, and at times, full-scale wars, as differing ideologies clashed violently.

Back then, most of humanity shared a single belief. Magic, or any form of supernatural power, was not meant for mortals. Anyone discovered with such abilities was quickly labeled a servant of the devil or a demon. They were not just captured or imprisoned. Instead, they were sentenced to the cruelest fate of all, burned alive.

For magicals, it was a dangerous time. There were no laws to protect them, and each witch or wizard had to hide their gifts from a world that saw them as a threat.

Then, four remarkable individuals decided to change everything. Godric Gryffindor, Helga Hufflepuff, Rowena Ravenclaw, and Salazar Slytherin. They refused to be treated as outsiders. Instead, they chose to stand together, separating themselves from the non-magical world that saw them as nothing more than evil, alien beings.

They gathered witches and wizards from all over, offering them a safe place to live without fear. Together, they built a large castle, hiding it behind strong enchantments to protect it from non-magical people and the dangers of the world.

This castle, located somewhere in the Scottish Highlands, eventually became known as Hogwarts. Not only was it a refuge where magical people could live without fear, but also a school where knowledge could be passed down for generations.

Over the centuries, the castle faced many challenges but overcame them all. Today, it stands as one of the most prestigious magical schools in the world, a true testament to the vision and determination of its founders.

...

It was another typical day.

The sun began to rise, painting the sky with a soft orange glow. The castle stood tall and silent, its towers cutting through the lightening sky, their sharp edges softened by the morning haze. The first rays of sunlight slipped through the windows, casting long shadows across the ancient stone walls.

High in one of Hogwarts' tall towers, the deputy headmistress's office was peaceful in this quiet moment. A middle-aged woman in traditional witch's robes sat at the desk, an open book in front of her. Her face showed deep concentration, as though she were studying something important.

The soft rustle of turning pages was the only sound, while the morning light poured through the large window behind her, casting a gentle glow on the polished wood of her desk.

The office was spacious, with stone walls decorated by a few carefully chosen items. Framed awards and trophies were neatly arranged atop a shelf filled with old-looking books along the right wall.

A fireplace stood in the middle of the left wall, and on either side of it, shelves held a collection of antique magical items. Among them was a delicate, well-worn broomstick, carefully placed apart from the others, as if it were the most prized possession.

Behind her desk, above the large window, a portrait of a stern-looking witch hung, her gaze shifting slightly as though silently watching over the room. Through the window, the other castle towers and the grounds stretched out, offering a clear, wide view.

It was a quiet, organized space that perfectly reflected its occupant, Minerva McGonagall, the deputy headmistress of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Turning the last page of the book, McGonagall let out a soft sigh, her expression thoughtful and pleased, before snapping it shut. Her gaze lingered on the cover, The Magic of Science, and a small nod followed, as if confirming a decision.

Her eyes moved to the fireplace, then to the only door of her office, before resting on the clock above it. She leaned back in her chair, settling more comfortably, and picked up another book from her desk to continue reading.

Time passed slowly until she closed the book as well and sat up straighter, as if she was waiting for something to happen.

Her eyes kept fixed on the fireplace, and just then, green flames flared up, revealing a young man dressed in a sleek mix of wizarding and modern clothing.

Her expression softened into a welcoming smile as she addressed the new arrival. "Mr. Caesar, right on time. Welcome to Hogwarts." She stood, walked around her desk, and extended her hand with a warm, firm gesture.

"Thank you for the invitation, Professor." He shook her hand, offering a similar expression. "I've always wanted to see this legendary sanctuary built by the four Warlocks."

McGonagall gave a small smile. "A sanctuary indeed," she said, her tone thoughtful. After a brief pause, she added, "Please, make yourself comfortable," gesturing to a chair.

Maverick nodded, taking the seat as McGonagall moved to her own chair across from him.

"Tea? Or perhaps breakfast while we talk?" she offered with a polite smile. "The house-elves here are exceptional cooks."

Maverick shook his head respectfully. "Just tea, Professor. I've already had breakfast, but thank you."

She nodded and called out an Elvish name, prompting a small creature to appear with a quiet pop. Moments later, their drinks were brought, and the house-elf disappeared, leaving them alone for their meeting.

"In just two years, you've accomplished so much, young man," the older witch began, offering a warm compliment.

She raised her hand, showing the elegant wristwatch on her wrist to Maverick. "I bought this from your shop, Caesar's Magitech, when I visited the States last month."

A small smile appeared on her lips as she met his gaze. "The ideas behind your products are remarkable. Functionally, there are similar inventions already, but the design and the way you've made them more convenient... honestly, it's already transforming the magical world."

Maverick let out a modest chuckle. "Thank you, Professor. But I can't take all the credit. It's the work of many talented witches and wizards in my company."

McGonagall's smile grew warmer. "Humble, too. Not many alchemists have that quality..."

It was true—alchemists, especially the old masters, were often known for their pride and arrogance.

"Please, I hope that humility of yours stays with you, young man," she added, her tone firm but kind, before shifting subtly once more. "Well, I've had the pleasure of reading your book," she continued.

Maverick nodded, the conversation now turning to the matter at hand, and he was honestly looking forward to her feedback.

"It's quite... thorough, I must say." She glanced between the book on her desk and him.

"Are you suggesting it's too advanced, Professor?"

"Perhaps," she said, leaning slightly back in her chair. "I shared it with Albus. I hope you don't mind."

"Not at all," Maverick said, waving his hand. "Was this Speaker Dumbledore's impression, Professor?"

"Ours, actually," she replied after a brief pause. "For first-years, especially the children of pureblood families, it might be a bit overwhelming. But as an elective for sixth and seventh years, it would be just right."

Maverick hummed, considering her unexpected words. He had written the book based on magical schools around the world that taught science, with some added knowledge of his own. To him, it seemed quite basic, but apparently, it wasn't basic enough.

He sighed, a hint of dejection in his voice. "I understand, Professor."

McGonagall smiled at his expression, realizing he hadn't quite grasped the point. However, that was a conversation she preferred to have with someone else present.

"This is what Albus and I believe," McGonagall continued. "Speaking of which, he would like to meet with you about this matter, Mr. Caesar." She paused for a moment before adding, "That is, if you're still interested in teaching here..."

Maverick's eyes lit up as he met her gaze and nodded without hesitation. "Of course. My words from two years ago haven't changed."

McGonagall nodded appreciatively at his response. Truthfully, she would have considered Maverick for the position even if the book hadn't impressed her. His other skills, combined with the character she had grown quite fond of by now, made him an excellent fit for a professor in her eyes.

She then heard him add, "I can adjust my schedule whenever Speaker Dumbledore is ready to meet."

"That won't be necessary," she smiled. "In fact, Albus is expecting you now."

"Right now?" Maverick asked, slightly surprised. This was Albus Dumbledore, after all. In his previous life, he had read enough fanfiction to feel a tinge of doubt about what to expect from the legendary wizard.

The thought crossed his mind briefly, but he quickly pushed it aside. It didn't matter—he was confident in his abilities now. Besides, it was best to assume Dumbledore would be closer to J.K. Rowling's version rather than jumping to conclusions.

"Yes. If you don't mind, we can head straight to his office," McGonagall suggested, her expression staying the same.

Maverick nodded without hesitation, his mind made up. "Of course, Professor."

McGonagall smiled and rose from her seat at his words. "Come, let's walk. You'll have a chance to see a bit of Hogwarts along the way." She stopped briefly before reaching the door as Maverick stood up as well.

"The students are in their final exams right now," she added, her tone carrying a hint of weariness."Please don't mind any odd behavior you might see."

Maverick chuckled, finding her words a little amusing. "I've been through exam stress myself, Professor. I studied at Muggle universities too. I'm sure it won't be that bad."

McGonagall's expression shifted to one of appreciation as she listened to his response, then softened. "True, I had forgotten you were homeschooled by that lion while attending Muggle schools." She paused, then added, "You must be the first magical to do so..." A hint of admiration appeared in her gaze before she opened the door and gestured for him to follow. "Come along..."

A smile tugged at his lips as he fell into step beside her, walking side by side.

She cast him a sideways glance as they walked. "I must admit, when I saw the headlines on New Year's Day, it gave me quite a shock."

"Which part shocked you the most?" he asked playfully, giving a shy chuckle while his gaze swept across the grand surroundings of the castle.

"All of it," she replied, amused, noticing how absorbed he was in his surroundings. "Muggle schools, Garling's apprentice, master alchemist... you name it. You were the talk of the wizarding world for weeks."

Maverick chuckled again. "Fortunately, the fuss has settled down now."

The older witch smiled at his nonchalance. Along the way, they didn't encounter any other professors, as it was still quite early. Only a few students shuffled by, none paying much attention to them, likely still half-asleep.

They walked at a steady pace, with McGonagall answering most of Maverick's questions as they passed through the castle, while he marveled at the surroundings.

After a few minutes and a long climb up a set of stairs, they finally reached the top of the tower where the headmaster's office was located.

"Honey drops!" McGonagall said, speaking to the gargoyle statue beside the door before glancing at Maverick. "Albus has a thing for sweets, you see."

Maverick smiled and shrugged. "Everyone has their quirks, Professor."

The door opened with a soft creak, revealing the cozy yet eclectic interior of Dumbledore's office. Maverick followed McGonagall inside, his eyes immediately drawn to the sheer amount of detail packed into the room.

The circular space was bathed in warm, golden light streaming through tall, arched windows. The walls were lined with shelves crammed with books, peculiar instruments, and trinkets that seemed to hum faintly with magic. A large, ornate desk sat at the center, its surface cluttered with parchment, quills, and a collection of silver gadgets that whirred and clicked softly.

Portraits of past headmasters lined the walls, their eyes following the two, some whispering to each other in hushed tones.

What caught Maverick's attention most, however, was the overwhelming sense of history that filled the room. It felt alive, as if the very walls were steeped in centuries of wisdom and secrets.

His gaze stopped at a magnificent bird perched on a stand near the desk, its fiery plumage glowing faintly in the dim light. It radiated power, a feedback his passive Magical-Sense easily picked up. He had no doubt this phoenix was nothing like the turkey portrayed in the movies.

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Author's note:

Just a quick update — up to Chapter 95 is already available on P AT r30n!

PAT r30n [.] com / RyanFic

Thank you again!