Chapter 84

In the hallowed halls of Hogwarts Castle, the nightly tours had been abruptly suspended, much to the disappointment of the students. The caretaker, Filch, had proven to be an insurmountable obstacle, tirelessly patrolling the corridors and putting an end to the mischievous adventures that had once unfolded under the cloak of darkness.

Fred and George Weasley, the mischievous twins who had always pushed the boundaries, decided not to test Filch's patience further. The duo had other priorities that demanded their attention, leaving no room for nocturnal adventures.

As the first month of school passed, the young first-year students settled into their academic routine. The workload for each subject was substantial, while the number of mandatory classes each week was relatively small. Fred and George, along with their fellow Gryffindors, also needed to find time to take part in Quidditch practise, honing their skills in pursuit of glory on the pitch.

In comparison, Albert seemed to have a more relaxed existence. While his peers tackled their assignments, Albert completed his homework in a timely manner. Memorising and retaining information came naturally to him, and his prowess in magic was unrivalled in their cohort. Even the most challenging Transfiguration spells, which often baffled the first-year students, posed no obstacle for Albert.

Albert had joined the Transfiguration Club, where he further honed his skills and became increasingly proficient in the art of transformation. Under the tutelage of Professor McGonagall, he mastered the intricate technique of turning a stone into a delicate teacup. With a few practise sessions, Albert perfected the spell, demonstrating his exceptional aptitude for transfiguration.

Unbeknownst to his friends, Albert's mastery of magic extended beyond the confines of the curriculum. He had conquered the summoning charm, a feat that most first-year students could only dream of achieving. While his initial attempts were modest, summoning a blooming chrysanthemum onto the tip of his wand, Albert was eager to explore the vast possibilities that lay before him. With unwavering determination, he aimed to summon not just a single flower but an entire bouquet.

One afternoon, as the Gryffindors gathered in the common room, George Weasley's keen eye caught sight of an approaching owl. The others made room on the table as the owl landed, delivering a package to Albert. Expressing his gratitude to Snow with a treat he got out of his pocket, Albert opened the package to find two thick books nestled inside, accompanied by a taped gift.

The books, both centred on economics, were a thoughtful gift from Albert's family. His grandfather, Luke, had learned of Albert's interest in finance and chose "Principles of Economics" as a fitting birthday present. The other book, a testament to Herb's consideration, bore the title "The Essence of Finance." Although Albert didn't immediately delve into the books, he appreciated the gesture and focused his attention on the additional package before him.

With great care, Albert unwrapped the package, revealing a box of beautifully crafted small cakes. Angelina's eyes sparkled with delight as she admired the delectable treats. Albert revealed that the cake was a gift from home. A birthday card accompanied the confectionary masterpiece, signed by Nina, who mentioned her role in creating the cakes.

Warm birthday wishes filled the air as they all sang "Happy Birthday." Albert then distributed slices of the rich chocolate cake among his friends. Amidst the exchange of birthday wishes and the indulgence of the scrumptious cake, Albert's friends couldn't help but remark on the significance of his birthday.

George, ever quick-witted, playfully remarked, "Now you're a year older and your birthday is earlier than ours. That means you can be the one to buy us alcohol when you're old enough." He couldn't resist adding a mischievous quip: "If only you had been born forty days earlier, you could have enrolled a year ahead."

"But enrolling this year isn't so bad either," he said, his words carrying a deeper meaning that eluded his companions.

Perplexed by his cryptic response, his friends exchanged puzzled glances, failing to grasp the hidden significance behind Albert's words. Meanwhile, Angelina couldn't help but feel a sense of unease, a nagging suspicion that something about Albert didn't quite fit the mould of a typical Gryffindor.

Curiosity getting the better of her, Angelina requested permission to peruse the books, her gaze fixed on the intriguing titles that adorned the thick volumes. Albert granted her request, understanding that his friends might not share his passion for economics. As Angelina flipped through the pages of "Principles of Economics," she couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the complex concepts contained within. Every word was familiar, yet the deeper meaning eluded her grasp.

George, observing Angelina's confusion, muttered, "I don't understand why your family sent you this stuff."

With a dismissive wave of his hand, Albert redirected the conversation, knowing that the intricacies of economic theory would hardly capture his friends' interest. "Don't worry too much," he assured them. "Flying on broomsticks is easy to learn compared to this."

Shannon, seeking reassurance, murmured her concerns. "Am I the only one who can't ride a broomstick?"

Albert, in his characteristic calm demeanour, responded to her with a hint of amusement. "Is the cake not to your liking?" He countered, diverting attention away from Shannon's insecurity.

Eager to dispel any doubts, Shannon reassured him, "No, no, I love chocolate cake," as she swiftly finished the slice before her.

Yet, beneath her cheerful facade, Shannon couldn't help but feel a twinge of apprehension. The thought lingered in her mind, an unsettling realisation that she might be the only Gryffindor first-year struggling to master the art of riding a broomstick.