Outside the VIP plex at Heathrow, three sleek bck SUVs sat in a tight row, their police lights fshing red and blue across the quiet terminal. No sirens, no rush—just that low hum of serious business in the air.

  The doors of the front and back SUVs opened first, and three men in sharp bck suits stepped out from each. They moved with practiced precision, taking up positions around the middle vehicle.

  One of the men from the front SUV, his face calm but alert, walked over to the middle vehicle. When he reached the door, he paused and gnced around sharply before opening it with a steady hand.

  From iwo men and a woman stepped out, exuding rexed yet noticeable fidehey were dressed sharply, moving with an easy assurance.

  The man in front was tall and striking, wearing a bck trench coat over a bck suit. He had a calm, self-assured expression that subtly set the tone.

  Right behind him was a younger man, equally good-looking, with slightly tousled bck hair and a focused, id-back vibe. He walked fidently in a sleek bck leather jacket, zipped down to reveal a crisp white shirt underh. His bck jeans added a casual touch, and a bck Louis Vuitton backpack hung effortlessly over one shoulder.

  o the young man was a beautiful woman in smart-casual attire, blending elegah an easy style. Her hair was ly styled, framing her face as she exged a few casual words with him, her expression warm and inviting.The men from the other SUVs stayed put, holding their ground like statues, eyes stantly sing the area for any hint of trouble. They didn't miss a beat, c every possible angle as the three made their way toward the gate.

  Waiting for them he entrance were two men in formal attire. One had a uniform loaded with more badges than anyone could t—clearly someone high-ranking. The other, in a sharp blue suit, stepped forward with a respectful nod.

  "Good evening, Prime Minister Caesar. Ma'am. Sir," he greeted smoothly, his hand to Michael at the front.

  Now, Maverick had tried to keep this visit under s, pnning to go solo to avoid all the fuss. But with a dad in high pces, there was no way he was slipping in without some form of ae. His parents, Michael and Ariel, had insisted on ing, though they'd mao keep the se surprisingly quiet. No fshing cameras, no crowd, just essential personnel and a tight security team—bare minimum, as "low-key" as a prime minister's family arrival could get.

  Escorted through a series of doors, the family of three found themselves in a private lounge, decked out with plush furniture, bright lighting, and a massive gss window overlooking the busy runway, where paxied like giants in slow motion.

  A spread of refreshments was already id out, waiting for them, and the staff discreetly slipped out, and the family was left alone for some privacy.

  "Make sure to call us as soon as you get to Edward's pce, alright?" Ariel said, her voice carrying that unmistakable hint of mom-worry. "His family should be there to pick you up…"

  Maverick chuckled, giving her a reassuring smile. "Mom, I promise. I'll call. And it's not like I'm vanishing off the face of the earth. Uncle said he'd get our pce registered in the Floo work, so I pop by whenever!"

  Michael stepped closer, putting a firm hand on Maverick's shoulder, his expression serious but warm. "Just keep your head straight, yeah? Good luck with everything. And don't hesitate to call if you need anything."

  "And please visit yrandparents," Ariel added, her voice softening. "I haven't even told them you're moving to America for school. This all happened so fast…"

  Maverick grinned, squeezing her hand. "I'll see them, Mom, promise. And don't worry—I've got the cover story all set." He paused, lookiween them with determination. "I'll be okay. You both taught me well."

  The three of them kept chatting as b time crept closer. His parents were dishing out their usual mix of advid little reminders, and even though he felt a bit overwhelmed, Maverick couldn't help but appreciate every word.

  Finally, when tort staff came to escort him to the gate, Maverick gave each of them a tight hug. "I'll be fine, really. I'll call you as soon as I'm settled," he promised, o time.

  Maverick had po fly business css, but, of course, his mom had gone and upgraded him to first. No pints here, though. A few hours ter, he was high above the Atntifortably led in his seat, with London disappearing behind him and New York City up ahead.

  The flight was smooth, taking off from London at 4 PM and nding at JFK around 8 PM local time. The airport was busy, but Maverick's VIP service got him through immigration like a breeze. By the time he was outside, his backpack slung over one shoulder and his suitcase in hand, it was barely 9 PM, and Edward was already there waiting.

  They hopped into the car, and soon, they were cruising toward Manhattan Beach. Maverick could feel a mix of excitement and nerves brewing. New try, new school, new life.

  Edward seemed to pick up on his thoughts. "I've already talked to Silvia and Bel," he said, his voice steady and reassuring. "They're in ohing, and help keep your story straight."

  Maveriodded, grateful. He was lucky his dad was close friends with Edward. Without his help, establishing his wizarding identity without leaving any loose ends would have been a real nightmare.

  In under an hour, they rolled up to Edward's pce, and Maverick's eyes widened. High walls surrounded a massive 4,000-square-foot property, like a hidden sanctuary. As they drove through the main gate, two men in bck suits nodded respectfully—security was clearly top-notch here.

  Ihe green ndscape stretched out around the house. Trees lihe wn, and a wide, grassy yard made the pce feel like a tucked-aaradise. Right in the middle stood a beautiful two-story house, led among all that green. He felt like the pce was a hidden paradise.

  As the car pulled up to the grand house, Maverick spotted a beautiful woman and a girl waiting oeps, their faces lighting up with weling smiles. Mother and daughter, no doubt—the resembnce was uny. Their expressions carried that unmistakable "we've been waiting just for you" vibe.

  Maverick stepped out, feeling the familiar warmth of the Garling family already. Edward headed to the back of the car to grab his suitcase, while the woman and girl came down to meet him.

  The woman enveloped him in a hug, her voice soft and warm. "It's so good to see you again, Maverick," she said. This was Silvia Garling, Edward's wife. With her easy smile, rich bck hair, and effortless beauty, Maverick couldn't help but wonder if Edward might be casting a little magic to keep her looking that young—she could easily pass for someone ie twenties, not the mother of a teenage girl.

  "This must be your first time seeing our real home," she added, her smile gentle. "Here, Edward and Bel actually be themselves."

  Just then, the young girl spoke up, her voice filled with excitement. "Ricky!" she excimed, ing Maveri a big hug.

  Maverick grinned, hugging her back, his heart warming at her excitement. "Good to see you, Aunt Silvy," he said, nodding toward Silvia first. Then, pulling away from the hug, he g Isabel with a smirk. "And you too, Bel..."

  "Finally, I don't have to act like I don't have magic around you!" Isabel said, rolling her eyes, almost making Maverick ugh.

  Maverick chuckled. "So, you were just pretending to be my friend all these years?" he teased, earning a pyful jab. She was clearly relieved—finally free to be herself without the "pretend to be normal" act.

  "Don't just stand there—bring him inside already!" Edward called out, fshing a grin as he hoisted Maverick's suitcase over his shoulder as if it weighed nothing. Maverick couldn't help but admire that; other wizards would've just levitated the thing, but Edward seemed to enjoy doing things with good old-fashioned muscle, more like a warrior than a typical spellcaster.

  As soon as Maverick walked through the doors, he felt like he'd stepped into a whole new world. From the outside, the house looked spacious but modest, maybe 1,500 square feet. I had to be at least three times that size. The ceilings soared, with thick wooden beams crossed in intricate patterns, and massive crystal deliers cast a warm, soft light over everything. This was definitely an advaraceless Extension spell at work.

  The walls were adorned with tapestries showing ses from old battles and gras, colors still vivid as if they were woveerday. Heavy, velvet curtains framed the tall windows, adding a royal touch. Maverick couldn't help but stare.

  The living room was vast, with plush sofas arranged in a square around a polished wooden table. Straight ahead, t bookshelves held rows upon rows of leather-bound tomes, eae brimming with history. Two sweeping staircases fhe room, their bronze railings gleaming softly. Stoeps that looked worn but perfectly led up to what must be even more wonders.

  Maverick looked to his right, spotting the dining room through a wide, arched doorway supported by stone pilrs etched with symbols for lud prote. To his left, a few more doors hi rooms he was curious to explore.

  He stood there, taking it all in, awestruck. This pce wasn't just a home—it was like a pace, filled with turies-old charm and a sense of deep history. Edward's family watched him, clearly enjoying his rea. They'd probably seen it a huimes before, aheir faces were lit with anticipation.

  "So…" Isabel prompted, her eyes sparkling. Her tone had a knowing ring, as if she was already sure of what he'd say.

  Edward and Silvia leaned in a little, looking just as eager, waiting for Maverick's response.

  Maverick exhaled slowly, giving them a grin. "It's… wow. This pce is insane. I mean, I've been to Bugham Pace, but your home definitely holds its own. And holy? Feels a lot more weling here."

  Isabel's grin widened with pride. She elbowed her mom and whispered, "Told you he'd be blown away!"

  Silvia and Edward exged pleased looks, clearly delighted by his rea.

  They led Maverick to his bedroom on the first floor. It was as luxurious as the rest of the house, and Maverick couldn't help but feel a little shy. His own family's pce bae was impressive, sure, but they went for modern and sleek, not this kind of royal charm.

  The four-poster bed had deep, velvet curtains, and the furniture looked like it belonged in a castle. From the plush carpet to the carved details on the wardrobe, everything was steeped in history. This kind of luxury was too overwhelming for him. Maverick couldn't help but grin, feeling a little out of pce but excited all the same.

  ...

  After a nice, cold shower, Maverick joihe Garling family for dinner, feeling refreshed and ready.

  He had to admit—this pce was level. The house was massive, practically screaming "wizard wealth," yet Silvia had somehow mao whip up dinner herself.

  Usually, iial wizarding families had house elves to hahese things but he hadn't seen any signs of them so far — none of them bustling around. It was just Silvia, rolling up her sleeves and going full chef mode.

  "Need a day to catch your breath, little Rick?" Edward asked, raising an eyebrow.

  Before Maverick could answer, Silvia jumped in, "Of course he does. He's been traveling all day. Let him settle in first."

  Maverick smiled, grateful for her care, but he had no pns to py tourist. "I'm good, Aunt Silvy. Slept most of the flight, and I'll be fresh tomorrow." He said kindly, her a reassuring smile.

  Then he g Edward to make his determination clear. "Uncle, let's get started tomorrow."

  "Perfect," Edward replied, nodding approvingly.

  "We'll go to Ilvermorny first thing in the m. I want to introduce you to the principal. It's important to make sure they know you, especially since you'll be taking your OWLs as there in June."

  Edward id out the pn, and Maverick listened with total focus, nodding along. "Basically, as far as anyone else knows, you've been my student since you were six. You've been doing magieschooling while also attending Muggle schools and then uy.

  I made sure your name was entered in to the Ilvermorny Book of Acceptance, got it down in their records that you had yical awakening at six.

  I alighe dates with when your family was iates, so no one's going to raise an eyebrow."

  Edaused for a moment, looking thoughtful. "If anyone asks about your background, the story will be that your family decided to stay uhe rader.

  Under Article Seven of the Magical and Non-Magical Information Sharing Treaty, Muggle-born witches and wizards keep their identities secret if they get sent from any of the 83 sacred magical families worldwide or from any of the seven speakers, just like magioble heirs. And you use this same reason to expin why your name wasn't sent to the UK Muggle gover.

  Maverick chuckled. "So, when you 'took me in' at six," he added, fingers making air quotes, "we just kept it low-key? There's o tell anyone—Muggles ical authorities?" His voice held a blend of curiosity and amusement.

  "Exactly," Edward said, a sly smirk pying at his lips. "As a speaker, I've got more pull with the Iional federation of Wizards—and even the World Security cil—than any of those noble families. People see my name, and they'll take whatever's on the paperwork as gospel."

  "Thank you, teacher," he said showing gratitude. "I won't let you down."

  Edward gave him a proud smile, "I know you won't.".

  Before things could get too serious, Isabel piped up, boung in her seat, " I e too? I wanna go!"

  Edward gave her a look. "Didn't you just take a week off school?"

  "That's because Maverick was ing! If he's going, I want to go, too!" she shrugged.

  Edward sighed, expining with a hint of fatherly patience, "Maverick didn't e here to sightsee, you know. He's only going to school to introduce himself to the principal. After that, he'll be with his tutors at another pce, off training or studying, and won't be home most of the day."

  "Oh… then I'll just cel my break and go back. But you'll have to ask the principal to let me use the students Floo work to e back whenever I want..." Isabel pouted.

  "That's not really fair to the other students, Isabel," her mother interrupted. "You 't use your father's es to e and go from school whenever you want."

  "But…" Isabel began, ready tue her case.

  "It's fine," Edward said, holding up a hand to stop her. "She's way ahead academically. Let her use the Floo a few more times—but, no skipping csses, thrice a week tops, and just this term!"

  "Yesss!" Isabel beamed, hugging him tightly. "Thanks, Dad!"

  Maverick watched the exge with amusement, thinking that Ilvermorny might have its perks when it came to rules—definitely not as uptight as Hogwarts.

  As far as he knew, Hogwarts didn't have any Floo work set aside just for students, and popping home during week ends? Yeah, that retty muheard of. Once you were at school, you were there until the holidays, like it or not.

  Turning baaverick, Edward went on, "After the principal meeting, we'll meet with your Potions and Alchemy tutors. You'll have three hours with each tutor daily. You'll also get to meet some of my other students there, and when you're back here, I'll take over with physical exercises, dueling, wizarding ws, politics, aiquette."

  Edward leaned in, eyes serious. "You've chosen to sit the exams in June, so we have four months to get you ready. It's going to be intehink you're up for it?"

  Maverick's face lit up with excitement. Finally, real training, real dueling. No way was he pnning on sg. "I'm more than ready," he said, his voice steady.

  Edward nodded, a spark of pride in his eye. "Good. Show me what you've got."

  Dinner went off without a hitch as Maverick regaled them once again his 'epic tale' of how he discovered magid everything he's done sihen. Silvia listened with enthusiasm, but Isabel looked dht fbbergasted.

  Holy, if her dad hadn't backed up Maverick's story, she might've thought he was just making it all up.

  After ing up dinner, Isabel dragged Maverick off for a tour of the house, even though her mom kept insisting he should kick bad rest after such a busy day.

  The pce was truly impressive! They strolled through a jaw-dropping library filled to the brim with more books than Maverick could t. up was a brewing room that smelled like a potion explosion.

  Then there were the chill rooms, decked out with all sorts of non-magical fun, like pool tables and a ema room that made him wonder if he'd just walked into a movie studio—he had to admit, it was kind of cool.

  But the real showstopper was the basement. Calling it a dueling practi felt like calling a dragon a lizard. This pce ractically a stadium, nearly as big as a football field! It had dummies to practi, target areas to test his aim, and a ton of workout gear that looked like it could turn ao a superhero.

  After a whirlwind two-hour tour, Maverick finally made his way to his room, waving goodnight to Isabel, ready to crash and cate sleep before diving into the excitement of the day.

  ...

  High up on the peak of Mount Greylo the northeastern U.S., stands the majestic Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. While Hogwarts looked more like a medieval castle, Ilvermorny was more of a modern, magical mansion.

  It had s towers, sprawling wings, and an intriguing fusion of European and Native Ameri magibsp;Ented protes keep it hidden from the No-Majs (that's Ameri sng fgles), making sure it stays out of sight, often ed in swirling clouds that g to the mountain.

  Ilvermorny was founded ba the 1600s by Isolt Sayre—a desdant of Sazar Slytherin himself—and her non-magical husband, James Stewart. Yep, a Slytherin and a No-Maj.

  Although the school started small, it didn't take long before Ilvermorny became North America's pride and joy, weling young witches and wizards from all over north America.

  Like Hogwarts, Ilvermorny has four houses, and students study many familiar subjects with a few uwists. There's Potions, Defense Against the Dark Arts, Herbology, magical creature studies, Charms, Transfiguration—the cssibsp;But they also have csses like Wandcrafting, which you won't find at Hogwarts. It's a full, well-rounded magical education that takes its Ameri roots seriously, h Native Ameri traditions woven into the lessons and s.

  The headmasters office was in the highest tower, one side fag misty Mount Greylod the other showing off the entire school. The room's huge, with tall ceilings and walls lined with shelves holding a looking books, magical artifacts, and relics from North Ameri wizardry.

  A big, carved wooden desk sits near a giant window, giving a breathtaking view of the valley below. Behind the desk, a portrait of the founders, Isolt Sayer and James Stewart, looks on, nodding every now and then at visitors like they approve.

  In a burst of greehe Floo firep the er suddenly lights up, and out steps Edward in his formal wizarding robes, all business. Behind him is a teenage girl in a crisp Ilvermorny uniform, looking fident, and then a young man who seems a little wobbly but is doing his best to keep his cool.

  The headmaster, Agilbert Fontaiands up to greet them. He's a tall, silver-haired wizard who looks about fifty, with a thick white beard and kind eyes. He's got this ge anding vibe as he steps around his desk. "Wele, Speaker Edward," he says warmly, shaking Edward's hand.

  "Headmaster," Edward replies, with a nod that's both respectful and friendly.

  The headmaster then turns to the girl and raises an eyebrow, a teasing smile on his fabsp;"Isabel, thought you'd be taking the week off," he says, sounding almost like he's in on a joke.

  Isabel blushes and smiles shyly. "I, uh, decided not to," she mumbles.

  Agilbert just raises an eyebrow, giving her a knowing look that says he's not buying it but isn't pushiher.

  Finally, he looks over to the young man. "And you must be Mr. Caesar," he says with keen i visible on his fabsp;"Speaker Edward's apprentibsp;Lucky you, getting him as a teacher. I hear you've even finished school with the No-Majs. Quite impressive!"

  Maverick, feeling the spotlight a bit too much, scratches his head, looking sheepish as he gnces around the room, wide-eyed at everything, trying to not react to the BS story Edward crafted. He doesn't quite know what to say, and fortunately Edward clears his throat, bailing him out.

  "Thank you, sir," Maverick stammers quickly, trying to keep his cool.

  "Alright, Bel, why don't you head back to css?" Edward said, giving his daughter a gentle look.

  She crossed her arms, pouting. "But... why 't I stay?"

  Edward raised an eyebrow, trying not to ugh. "We're just gonna have a quick chat, and then Maverid I have to head out to meet a few other folks."

  She huffed, kig at the floor a bit. "Fine."

  Edward chuckled, patting her shoulder. "I'll catch up with you ter, alright?"

  With a dramatic eye roll, Isabel finally turned, dragging her feet as she left. "Yeah, yeah... ter," she mumbled.

  As soon as Isabel left, Principal Fontaiioo the two chairs in front of his desk, and Edward and Maverick sat down. They ght into talking about Maverick—well, mostly it was Edward and Fontaine doing the talking. Maverick sat back, trying to look calm, hoping he wouldn't have to answer any tricky questions.

  They covered a bit about Maverick's schooling so far, his pn to sit for exams at Ilvermorny, and the subjects he'd o focus on. Thankfully, Fontai it light, stig to the basics of how the whole process would work instead of grilling Maveri academic stuff.

  After they'd covered everything, Fontaine gave an approving nod. With the details ironed out, Edward and Maverick got up and thanked him. They stepped back to the Floo firepce, green fmes fring to life around them as they disappeared, heading to one of Edward's outposts. This was where Edersonally trained and guided his team, and Maverick was about to get a closer look at what that actually meant.

  As soon as Maverick stumbled out of the Floo firepce, he took a look around. The room was small—probably about ten by te—with flickering dles lining the walls, casting a warm glow. There was only one dht in front of them.

  "Uh… where are we?" Maverick asked, looking over at Edward.

  Edward smirked. "Take a wild guess. Think back to what you said when you tossed in the Floo powder."

  Maverick squinted, scratg his head. "Matthew's… safe house?" He asked, sounding unsure.

  Edward chuckled. "Exactly. We've actually been here before."

  Maverick tilted his head, trying to pce it. "Wait… this is the pce where arated to practice spells, right?"

  Edward nodded. "Yep. The 'cold isnd,' as you called it."

  "Oh…" Maverick's eyes lit up in reition.

  "That's right, St. Matthew Isnd, Aska," Edward said, heading toward the door. "Middle of nowhere, far from anyone. Perfect spot for an underground base."

  He swung the door open, then looked back at Maverick with a grin. "Alright, e on. Let's go say hi to everyone."

  They walked into a huge hall. Instead of dles, the ceiling had some kind of glowing fixtures that filled the whole pce with a , white light. The room was big—about a quarter of a football field, Maverick guessed. There were two doors on each side—left, right, and straight ahead—and only the ohey'd just e through behind them.

  Maverick's eyes quickly locked onto the people standing in a line fag him and Edward. Up front were a man and a woman who looked a lot alike, maybe in their 30s—likely twins.

  Beside them stood a group of younger looking, likely teenagers: three girls and five boys. Maverick didn't miss the quice they all gave him, mix of surprise and curiosity as they messured him out.

  "Simon, Sarah… children. How've you all been?" Edward called out as he walked over, with Maverick trailing behind him.

  "We're good, boss," the woman—Sarah—answered, while the man, Simon, nodded in agreement.

  "All good, Teacher," the teenagers echoed in unison, their voices a full of energy and respect.

  Edward noded smiling at them. Theted Maverick's shoulder before speaking, "this is my apprentice, Maverick Caeser. "

  The teenagers' eyes widened as they took in Maveribsp;Simon and Sarah kept calm—Edward had already filled them in. But for the younger ohis was big news. Up until now, only Isabel, Edward's own daughter, held the title of apprentice.

  None of them showed rese, though maybe just a hint of envy. They each gave Maverick a respectful nod, which he returned with a slightly awkward wave. "Uh... Hello everyone..."

  Edward stepped in, "He's actually been my student for a while now. Just the first time I'm officially introdug him."

  The teens blinked, looking even more surprised. Edward tinued, "His situation's a bit different. So feel free to ask him questions if you're curious."

  Edward had already gone over the cover story with Maverid decided to stick with the same ohey'd given the Ilvermorny headmaster.

  Simon and Sarah already knew what was going on, and since Edward trusted them, so did Maverick.

  Sarah caught Edward's eye and spoke up, taking charge. "Boss, you don't o say mubsp;If he's your apprentice, he's already one of us." She gnced back at the teens, who nodded in agreement.

  "Good." Edward turo Maverick, theured to Sarah and Simon. "These two will be your main tutors. Sarah's a master potioneer, and Simon here is a professional alchemist. They'll start with a quick assessment today, then work out a lesson pn for you."

  Edward then turned his attention to the younger group before introdug eae. "These are my students. The you are Donald, Ryan, and Elizabeth—they're 12. Then Ahmed, Nicos, and Maya, who are 13. Lastly, Violet and Suresh, almost 15."

  He smiled warmly at them. "Like you, they've been with me sihey were little, right after they first showed their magibsp;They're like family, so I expect you all to get along."

  Maveriodded, now a more sincere smile as he looked at the kids. "o meet you."

  The teens greeted him back with the same friendly "o meet you."

  Over di night, Edward had filled him in on more about Edward's students, more importantly, their backstories. They weren't just students; they were magical orphans Edward had gathered from across the world, kids he was guiding and training, kids who would one day bee his trusted circle.

  Maverick was sure this was just one "css" among many Edward had taken under his wing. He wasn't going to ask questions; he didn't feel the o. Edward was one of the seven ICW speakers, an Arch-Magus at the top of the magical world, and of course he'd have subordinates.

  More than that, Maverick trusted Edward's character, and was mature enough to know not to dig for answers where they weren't needed.

  ...

  Maverick quickly got to know the youudents while Edulled Sarah and Simon aside for a quick chat.

  The teens, who were Edward's students, took turns introdug themselves to Maverick, giving the basics this time.

  Maverick gave them his "story" too, about how he'd been learning from Edward since he was six. They were a little surprised when he mentioned his dad was Britain's Prime Minister—but only mildly curious. They didn't pry.

  He didn't hide much, really; he and Edward had agreed only to make up the story about his magic awakening and the time period. Everything else—his family and his background—was not fabricated. After all, it wouldly be difficult—if people wao dig around about him, they'd figure this out eventually.

  The group got along surprisingly well—nothing cliché, jealousy or awkward vibes just because Maverick was Edward's direct apprehey all respected Edward way too much to feel any type of way about it.

  Maverick learhat this underground base was like their school, just like it'd be for him for the few months. Teachers would show up and teach them different magical subjects, and after csses, they'd all use the Floo work to head back to their own homes.

  Edward had made sure they lived well—not studerground all day, cramming spells like robots. In fact, they each had the option to attend a regur magic schoet this more personal, one-oyle of tut from Edward and his team. Every single one of them chose the tter.

  Some even studied non-magical subjects in regur schools, something Edward actively enced. He wahem to uand both worlds, not just be limited to magic.

  These kids weren't just any random magical orphans. Eae of them was handpicked by Edward himself. He'd taken his time to look into their lives, sider their situations, their talent, and—most importantly—judge their character.

  He wasn't just teag them spells; he was shaping their worldview, making sure they uood not to look down on non-magical people or their society.

  From what Maverick could tell, Edward believed in a kind of bance—a real respect for non-magical folks. He didn't see them as "lesser," just different. His philosophy was clearly about long-term coexistence, keeping things peaceful, a world apart from some radical ideas that had torn through the magical world a few decades ago.

  Holy, it wasn't hard for Maverick to uand why Edward felt this way. He'd read up on a lot of magical history and heard enough stories to piece it together. This universe wasn't just a version of Harry Potter; but also a mix of another, a more terrifying one.

  And because of that, it reminded him that if he ever became a powerful wizard, he'd o keep his ego in check.

  ...

  They chatted for a while until Edward, Sarah, and Simourned. With a quick goodbye, Maverick followed Edward and his two tutors to another room.

  This pce felt like a mix between a and a cozy lounge. Sofas and tables were arranged fortably, with a big, cssic chalkboard on the wall. Maverick took a seat on one of the sofas fag Sarah and Simon, who sat across from him with a table iween. Edward stood to the side, arms crossed, watg quietly.

  "Alright, think of this as a little test," Simon said, his voice deep and fident. "We want to get a sense of what you know about potions and alchemy."

  "Yeah, so tell us what you uand so far," Sarah added, giving him an encing nod.

  Maverick took a breath and began expining what he knew. He had upgraded his talents to an intermediate level in both potions and alchemy, so it wasn't just about memorized facts; it was as if he'd been practig them for years. Like with swimming—before the upgrade, he hadn't known a thing, but afterward, it felt as natural as if he'd been doing it forever. He had the knowledge and the muscle memory.

  At this level, his knowledge was about on par with a Hogwarts seventh-year student. He could've pushed the two talents even further, but he had held off on upgrading to an advanced level.

  Part of him wao build that uanding on his own, to reach a point where the system would reize his actual progress, not just let him cheat.

  Because as much as he saw the system as a "cheat code," he didn't want it to undermine his fidence. Relying solely on it made him feel like he was nothing without it. He wao prove—to himself, more than ahat he could get stronger without always leaning on it.

  But that didn't mean he'd ighe system. Oh, not at all. He was going to milk every bit of adva gave him. If there was a shortcut, he'd take it—he wasn't too proud for that.

  But he also wao feel like he had some say in his own story, you know?

  On one hand, he felt like the system was his security b; without it, he'd just be fumbling around. But oher hand, he was tired of feeling like the system was doing all the heavy lifting. He wanted a little pride, a little proof that he wasn't just a guy getting bailed out by some mighty ic cheat.

  After listening to Maverick's expnation, Sarah and Simon exged gheir eyes wide with surprise. They had been uhe impression that Maverily read the books but had no hands-on experience whatsoever.

  Even Edward looked taken abaone of them quite knew what to think, but ohing was clear: Maverick wasn't just a genius — he was something else entirely.

  Maverick felt a wave of embarrassment— a bit of oo—as his tutors, both looking at him like he was some kind of alien. Their eyes were practically burning holes through him. If he didn't know Edward and trust that these two were his people, he might've thought they were about to probe him with Legimence.

  "Your uanding is... uh... remarkable," Sarah finally said, hesitating as if searg for the right word.

  Maverick felt a flicker of ay, w if he might have gooo far. But he quickly brushed the thought aside. He wahem to see exactly how much he uood; it was essential for them to grasp his level. Only then could they tailor his learning pn to help him make real progress over the few months.

  Thankfully, his uncle broke the tension with a big ugh. "Ha! Didn't I tell you? The kid's something else!"

  Sarah and Simo out a sigh of surrender. "Alright, we'll start putting together your lessons and kick things off tomorrow," Sarah said, pausing before adding, "Holy, with just a bit of hands-on experience, I think you could handle your s already. But sihe boss wants us to work with you for four months, we'll make sure you're prepared for the top scores."

  Maveriodded politely, though he didn't pn on sg the very highest—just enough to show he had some skill in both subjects. Showing off too much would only draw more eyes, and he wasn't ied in that.

  "Good," Edward said approvingly. "I'll take him back, and we'll see you both tomorrow."

  "Thank you, teachers," Maverick gave them a respectful bow.

  "You're wele, kid," they replied together, with warm smiles.

  It had taken Maverick over two hours to gh everything, and now it was nearly noon. Edward led him outside, and Maverioticed the hall was empty. Seeing his puzzled look, Edward expined, "The other kids are off with their teachers in the base rooms. The hall's really just fatherings."

  "i see…" Maverick said, nodding.

  "Alright, let's head home. We'll grab some lunch, then you'll have a lesson with me this afternoon."

  Maveriodded, a spark of excitement in his eyes. This was the part he'd been looking forward to most.

  ...

  Garling Residence

  With a burst of green fmes, Maverid Edward stepped out of the firepd into Edward's home. They made their way to the living room, where the rich aroma of freshly cooked food filled the air. Silvia had clearly been busy i.

  "Edward, Maverick, you're back!" Silvia's melodic voice floated in from the dining room.

  They both walked in and found a table id with an impressive, banced spread. It was clear she'd gone all out, again.

  Edward grinned, walked over to give his wife a quick hug, theured for Maverick to sit. "Thanks, honey. But don't wear yourself out; you know you always call Nand her family if you need a hand," he said, pulling out a chair for her.

  Silvia chuckled, brushing it off with a smile. "It's no big deal, really. I asked—well, actually, I had to order the little guys to take the week off as a break." She ughed softly before tinuing, "Anyway, I'm off work this week, so this keeps me busy. It's better than just sitting around all day," she added, settling io him.

  Maverick watched the couple with a shy smile, feeling a bit like he was intruding on a private moment.

  "Alright, Maverick, dig in!" Silvia said, smiling at him. "I spoke to Ariel this m, and she mentioned how much you love Carbonara." She gestured to the dish, and Maverick's eyes lit up.

  "Thank you, Aunt Silvy," he said, grinning wide.

  Lunch was full of ughter and easy versation as Silvia asked about their day. When they were done, Edward suggested Maverick get some rest before trainihat afternoon.

  So that's exactly what he did. He headed to his room, rested by doing some light reading for an hour before taking a long, refreshing shower.

  He then checked out the gear Edward had given him. At first g looked like regur sportswear—long-sleeved bck shirt, bck pants, and sleek sneakers. But Maveriew better; faint runes carved into the fabrited at the entments woven into each piece.

  The moment he slipped them on, the outfit adjusted itself to fit him perfectly—no tugging, no adjusting, just pure magifortable and light, it felt like a sed skin.

  Grinning to himself, he made his way down to the basement and found Edward already waiting for him.

  ...

  Garling Residence, Basement Training Ground

  "I know that look. Seen it before. But before we dive into the art of dueling, I want to ask a few things."

  In the ter of the training ground, Edward and Maverick stood fag each other, a few feet apart. Maverick's excitement was obvious—this was his first time getting actual hands-on practi magid with a master teacher no less. He nodded, signaling he was all ears.

  "So, tell me," Edward began, "what do you think you're g the mht now?"

  "Experience?" Maverick replied, a little unsure.

  "Exactly. From st week's test, I noticed that while yrasp of spells is impressive, your execution's still clumsy. Amateurish, even."

  Maverick took the critique with a nod, appreciating Edward's hoy. "Yes. I know I o work on it."

  "Good. So before we jump into bat training, let's start with the basics: movement."

  "Movement?" Maverick asked, a little fused.

  "Yes. When you're in a duel, you're not just standing around waving a wand. You're moving—dodging, positioning yourself, looking for openings. That's what we call movement. And for that, you need agility, strength."

  "Your mana," he said, puttira weight on the word, "it doesn't just help with spells. It affects your body directly, which is why wizards are a lot strohan regur humans."

  Edaused, studying Maverick's expression and tinued.

  "Watch."

  Without a step, Edward simply raised his right foot and brought it down. "BOOM!" His foot hit the ground, creating a small crater and making the floor tremble. Maverick was so startled that he nearly lost his bance.

  Judging by Edward's casual stance, Maverick was sure he hadn't used his full power.

  Edward smirked at Maverick's astonished look. "Don't be so surprised. I am a King. Hmm...Arch-Magus, for you. There are only seven of us at this level alive today. Our physical strength alone is beyond that famous Muggle war hero from World War II."

  "You mean…" Maverick stammered, already knowing the answer. He thought back to both his past life and this one.

  "Exactly. Now, that's the be of having powerful mana. Marquis-level wizards are also incredibly strong, though not quite to the same degree. Even beginner mages like you have an edge ur people..." He hesitated, then added, "We are superior… or at least have the potential to be far superior."

  He took a step back, arms crossed, his eyes intehat's why you o learn how to use that strength, and these movement exercises I'm about to show you will teach you exactly that."

  Maveriodded, focused, abs every word.

  "I've got your training schedule done. A different focus each day, and we'll just keep cyg through.

  "One day for spellcasting. Mostly w on teique to cast more effitly. We'll get into tless and wandless casting too, and I'll throw in the spells I created myself.

  "Then physical work. Basically, every other day will be heavy on the physical side, and I mean intehis way, for the first two months, we focus hard on building your movements and strength. On the iween days, we'll take it lighter, fog on other skills aing you recover a bit."

  Edward watched Maverick's face, then nodded approvingly when he saw nothing but determination.

  "Eaight, you'll take our family's rejuvenation potion. Helps with the fatigue, muscle repair, all that. Now, it's not some miracle brew, but it'll keep you going those first few months. Eventually, your body will adapt, and the effects won't be as strong, but we'll make the most of it while it sts."

  "We'll also dedicate a day to mana trol…" Edward gave him a look that practically screamed 'freak of nature.' "You've got a ridiculously high level of mastery when it es to mana perception and trol. Holy, you're still just a beginner Magus, and it blows my mind every time I think about it."

  Maverick chuckled nervously, scratg his head.

  Edward let out a sigh and tinued, "Alright anyway, I'll be teag you how to use mana since you have it under trol, both directly and strategically.

  So to round it up, we'll do about four hours a day practical training, and then an hour at night in my study for history, politics, etiquette—all the b stuff."

  Maveriodded, taking a moment soaking it all in.

  "If it feels like too much, you say it," Edward said, seeing Maverick's silence.

  "No, teacher. I just wao know... how long do you think our training period will be?" Maverick asked after sidering his thoughts.

  Edward rubbed his , deep in thought. "Hmm… with your talent, I'd say about six months, maybe even less. After that, you should be able to keep going without my direct supervision."

  Maveriodded, taking a moment to think. His pn was to travel the world after his s, but he wouldn't mind postponing it if his teacher wanted him to tiraining—even if it took another year.

  He wasn't selfish; he truly appreciated Edward's itment to helping him. Anyways, Knowing he could finally this up by the end of the year made him feel a whole lot better.

  His eyes then sharpened and with a solemn tone, he said, "Thank you, teacher. You have my word. If you, Aunt Silvy, or Bel ever need anything from me, I'll be there! No questions asked!"

  Edward bliaken aback by Maverick's sudden seriousness. Then, without warning, he burst into ughter. "Hahaha! Who do you think I am, kid? I'm Edward Garling! You're a hundred years too early to be taking care of me."

  But despite the joke, Edward truly appreciated Maverick's siy.

  After all, it wasn't just his friendship with Maverick's father that led the Arch-Magus to take him on as an appre wasn't just charity that drove him to teach orphans magic, either. Sure, he had a ki, but he was also no fool. He knew when to lend a hand and when to expect a little something ba return.

  Maverick didn't bother to challenge his teacher's pride. He didn't bother to retort. Instead, he just fshed a big grin. It was a silent uandiween them—both kly what they meant.

  "Right enough with the talking " Edward spoke fisting his hands. "Lets get started!"

  And that day, for the first time in both of his lives, Maverick truly found out what it meant to be pushed to his limits. The Arch-Magus showed no pity, grinding the eraining protocol he had crafted onto Maverick with absolutely no mercy.