Chapter 5: Building the Circle

The air inside Hogwarts still carried a faint chill, but the castle felt warmer than it had the day before. The torches now flickered steadily in the corridors, and the Great Hall retained a faint hum of energy — a sign that Hogwarts was beginning to stir.

Albus, Charles, and Erik sat in what had once been the staff lounge. The room was sparse, with only a few armchairs and a dusty table that Albus had hastily cleaned with magic.

"If we're going to teach students," Charles said thoughtfully, "we'll need more than just professors. We'll need structure — rules, curriculum... even outreach. Most mutants don't even know what magic is."

"Agreed," Albus said. "The Book of Acceptance lists names from all over the world — both mutants and wizards. I can start sending invitations soon, but I want to focus on building a team first. Professors who can handle this unique blend of magic and mutation."

Magneto leaned forward. "And how do you plan to convince people to leave their lives behind and join this... experiment?"

"I'll show them what I showed you," Albus replied. "Hogwarts isn't just a castle. It's a refuge. Once they understand what this place can offer, I believe they'll come willingly."

"That may be true," Charles said, "but the world isn't exactly kind to mutants. There will be those who see this place as a threat — a gathering of powerful individuals under one roof."

"Then we make Hogwarts undeniable," Albus said. "A place no one dares to challenge." He paused, eyeing Magneto carefully. "That's where you come in."

Magneto's expression hardened. "If you're asking me to sit behind a desk and teach children to follow rules —"

"I'm asking you to help them learn strength," Albus interrupted. "To survive in a world that may reject them. You know better than anyone what that takes."

For a moment, Magneto said nothing. Then, slowly, he nodded. "I can teach them strength," he said. "But I won't hold back if they need to learn hard lessons."

"I wouldn't expect you to," Albus answered calmly.

Charles shifted in his seat. "And I'll help shape the school itself — create the foundation these students need to build their futures." He glanced at Magneto. "Balance strength with wisdom."

"Good," Albus said. "Because I want this school to be more than just a place of learning — I want it to be a sanctuary. A place that draws in the right people."

"And what happens when the wrong people find it?" Magneto asked darkly.

"Then we'll face that together," Albus said, his voice firm. "But we'll prepare the students first — so when that day comes, they'll be ready."

For the first time, the three of them seemed to find common ground. A fragile understanding — but one that could grow stronger with time.

"I'll reach out to potential professors," Albus said. "But I'll need your help finding the right ones — especially those with experience handling danger."

Magneto's grin was sharp. "I know just the kind of people you're looking for."

"And I'll focus on reaching students," Charles added. "Mutants who need a safe place to learn."

Albus rose to his feet, and the other two followed suit. "We're building something powerful here," he said. "And if we succeed, we won't just change Hogwarts... we'll change the world."

Charles extended his hand first. "Then let's get to work."

Magneto followed a moment later. "I hope you're right," he muttered. "Because if we fail... this world won't forgive us."

Albus clasped their hands firmly. "We won't fail," he promised. "We can't."