Chapter 9

The year had just begun, and January came with a crisp chill in the air. This month was special for many reasons. It marked not only a new year but also birthdays that mattered deeply—Severus's on the 9th and Lily's and mine on the 30th.

On the morning of the 9th, I sat at my desk and carefully wrote a letter to Severus, wishing him a happy birthday. I knew how much he looked forward to this day each year, so I included cheerful updates about Lily and me. I told him how we'd been reading the book he had sent us for Christmas, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Lily and I spent countless evenings marveling at the magical creatures described within its pages.

"It's such a good read," I wrote, "and we've both enjoyed it so much. I hope your birthday is as magical as the creatures in this book, and that you enjoy your day to the fullest."

I tucked a small gift into the parcel—a simple yet meaningful friendship bracelet I had made myself. It was woven with threads of green and gold, symbolizing a bond that would hold strong no matter where life took us.

Severus's reply arrived a few days later, delivered by a sleek black owl. His letter was filled with gratitude and excitement.

"Thank you, Petunia," he wrote. "The bracelet is beautiful. I'll treasure it always. My birthday was wonderful—my grandparents spoiled me rotten! Grandfather gave me a broom for Quidditch, and Grandmother showered me with gifts as well. Mother was as kind as ever. But I miss you terribly. I can't wait to see you again soon."

As the days of January passed, I continued practicing magic with the guidance of the System. My progress felt tangible, each new spell bringing a sense of accomplishment and excitement for the future.

When January 30th arrived, Lily and I woke up to the scent of fresh pastries wafting through the house. We rushed downstairs to find our parents waiting in the living room, surrounded by a pile of brightly wrapped presents.

"Happy birthday, my girls!" Mother exclaimed, pulling us into a tight hug.

"Come on, open your presents!" Father added, grinning.

We eagerly tore into the colorful wrapping, laughter and delight filling the room as we discovered new books, clothes, and trinkets. As we were opening our gifts, the doorbell rang. Mother stood to answer it, leaving Lily and me to glance at each other curiously.

When she returned, she wasn't alone. Standing behind her was a tall woman dressed in emerald robes, her dark hair tied into a neat bun, and square spectacles perched on her sharp nose. There was an air of authority about her, softened slightly by a warm expression.

"Good morning," the woman said, her voice clear and firm. "I am Professor Minerva McGonagall from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."

My mother looked puzzled. "Hogwarts? I've never heard of such a school."

Father chimed in. "Neither have I. What kind of school is this?"

Professor McGonagall smiled politely. "May I come in? It's easier to explain everything inside."

With a hint of hesitation, my parents allowed her in. She sat gracefully on the armchair near the fireplace, her emerald robes catching the light.

"Hogwarts," she began, "is a boarding school in Scotland that teaches young witches and wizards to master their magical abilities. Your daughters, Lily and Petunia, have been identified as exceptionally gifted in magic. On their eleventh birthday, they are invited to join us as first-year students."

Mother's brow furrowed. "Magic? That's preposterous. There's no such thing as magic."

Before Professor McGonagall could respond, Lily stood up. "But, Mum, it's true. I can do things... strange things."

I decided to step in, confident in my abilities. Picking up a teacup from the table, I concentrated, visualizing it transforming. In a matter of moments, the cup morphed into a bouquet of vibrant flowers.

Mother gasped, her hand flying to her mouth, while Father sat in stunned silence.

Professor McGonagall's eyes sparkled with approval. "Remarkable," she said, her voice laced with admiration. "Miss Petunia, that is advanced transfiguration—especially without a wand. You have an extraordinary gift."

I blushed at her praise, and Lily beamed with pride.

"Now," Professor McGonagall continued, "Hogwarts is not only a place for magical learning but also a home where your daughters will grow and thrive. It's a castle filled with wonders: enchanted staircases, a Great Hall with a ceiling that reflects the sky, and a library containing knowledge beyond imagination. It is a place where they will make friends and discover their full potential."

My parents exchanged glances, their skepticism beginning to wane.

"And where would they get their supplies for such a school?" Father asked cautiously.

"Hogwarts provides a list of required items," Professor McGonagall explained. "These can all be purchased in Diagon Alley, a magical marketplace in London. I will personally assist you in getting there."

Mother hesitated, still processing everything. "It sounds... overwhelming."

"Please, Mrs. Evans," Professor McGonagall said kindly. "I assure you, this is a rare and wonderful opportunity for your daughters. Hogwarts will shape their futures in ways you cannot yet imagine."

I glanced at my parents, my heart pounding. "Mum, Dad, please let us go. This is something Lily and I have dreamed of."

Lily added softly, "We'll write to you all the time. And we'll be home for the holidays."

Our parents looked at us, then at each other. Finally, Father smiled. "If it's what you both truly want, then you have our blessing."

"Thank you!" Lily and I chorused, throwing our arms around them.

Professor McGonagall handed us two thick envelopes, each bearing the Hogwarts crest. "These are your acceptance letters and a list of required materials. I'll meet you in a week to guide you to Diagon Alley."

As she departed, leaving us with a swirl of excitement and curiosity, Lily and I couldn't help but grin at each other. Our journey to Hogwarts was about to begin.

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry

Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore

(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)

Dear Miss Evans,

We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Please find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment. Term begins on 1 September. We await your owl no later than 31 July.

Yours sincerely,

Minerva McGonagall

Deputy Headmistress

First-Year Students Will Require:

1 Wand1 Cauldron (Pewter, Standard Size 2)1 Set of Glass or Crystal Phials1 Telescope1 Set of Brass Scales

Uniforms and books are listed in detail.

The rest of the day was a blur of excitement as Lily and I poured over our letters, dreaming of the adventures ahead.