Guardianship

Having just finished reading about Durmstrang, Harry found himself dismissing it as a potential school for his magical education. The school's prejudiced policies against Muggleborns and the emphasis on teaching the Dark Arts didn't sit well with him. In Harry's view, understanding Dark Arts was essential for self-defense, but he believed in achieving goals without resorting to dark and gruesome spells.

Drawing a parallel to the Muggle world, Harry likened magic to a weapon that could be used for good or evil, with shades of grey in between. Surviving in the grey areas himself, he reflected on his ability to navigate challenges, even defying the Dursleys' commands after a magical outburst at the age of nine.

His survival strategy involved gathering information discreetly, ensuring his classmates in Little Whinging kept silent about his activities. For instance, the Dursleys remained oblivious to his regular library visits where he delved into topics beyond his class level.

As Harry contemplated his future in the magical world, he recognized the need to collect information on influential figures. While aspiring to the top, he acknowledged the advantages the normal world offered.

Durmstrang, with its outdated views and focus on the Dark Arts, became a definite "no" in Harry's consideration. Turning his attention to Beauxbatons, he compared its course plan to Hogwarts'. Noting the difference in OWLs and NEWTs examinations, Harry weighed the pros and cons. Beauxbatons' decision to take OWLs at the end of sixth year provided more time for preparation, yet it limited the concentration on NEWTs material.

Harry pondered the significance of OWLs and NEWTs in relation to career plans, recognizing that the French model might offer a different and potentially more beneficial approach. The exploration of magical education continued, with Harry carefully considering each option.

Beauxbatons nestled in Southern France, its campus an old palace transformed into a school, reminiscent of Hogwarts with its castle setting.

The school had a unique focus on traditions and etiquette, mandatory classes that Harry didn't necessarily view as a disadvantage. Mastering the intricacies of high society was a valuable skill. What gave him pause, however, was the stringent code of behavior, which felt confining.

Despite its strict rules, Beauxbatons embraced diversity. It welcomed students of all backgrounds, showing no discrimination against those with creature heritage or Muggle-borns.

While there were magical schools in other countries, their class options paled in comparison to the three leading institutions. For Harry, the choice between Hogwarts and Beauxbatons hinged on his ability to communicate. Being fluent in both English and French, thanks to his deputy headmistress's encouragement to learn languages, gave him a distinct advantage.

Harry had initially learned German for a year, adding to his linguistic repertoire. Eager to expand further, he approached his deputy headmistress, assuming she, as a teacher, would have connections. His assumption was correct, and she introduced him to Mr. Smith, an old university acquaintance teaching at a nearby school.

A mere twenty-minute bus ride transported Harry to Mr. Smith's secondary school, where he, at the tender age of nine and a half, stood as the youngest among French learners. Despite his age, Harry quickly emerged as one of the fastest learners in the class. Now, with a bit over a year of French lessons under his belt, he could communicate quite proficiently.

As Harry pondered the possibility of choosing Beauxbatons, the allure of the immersive language experience appealed to him. However, time pressed against him, and the looming deadline for accepting any schooling offer added a layer of urgency. Only twelve days remained until the end of July, leaving Harry with a tight window for his decision.

The uncertainty about American schools lingered in his mind. Were they better suited for his goals? Could he switch schools once he started? The lack of knowledge about the magical world and his yet-to-be-determined guardian added complexity to the decision-making process.

Changing schools seemed like it should be straightforward, but Harry couldn't be certain. The identity of his guardian would play a pivotal role, ultimately influencing the decision. Accepting just anyone as a guardian wasn't an option for him; trust, shared ideals, and respect were non-negotiable.

A new thought sprouted in his mind – did his parents make plans for his care in case they didn't survive the war? The gravity of their fight against one of the darkest wizards raised the possibility. His mother, understanding Petunia's disdain for magic, might have considered alternatives.

With these musings swirling in his head, Harry considered the upcoming appointment at Gringotts. Perhaps there, in the heart of wizarding finances, he would uncover more about his parents' intentions, potential guardianship, and any plans they might have left behind.

The path to his magical education unfolded as a puzzle, each piece slowly revealing itself, and Harry was determined to gather every clue and make an informed decision about his future.

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