Hogwarts, by the end of November, was blanketed in a thick layer of snow.
Tonight marked the final dinner before Christmas break. After this, all students would enjoy a two-week holiday.
This vacation delighted not only the students, but the professors as well.
It was a chance to spend time with family, or to indulge in personal pursuits—perhaps even take a vacation elsewhere.
Though everyone knew that after two weeks, they would face more intensive lessons and the looming final exams, for now, they could finally relax.
A cheerful atmosphere enveloped Hogwarts.
Yet while most rejoiced, a few bore troubled expressions—such as Albus Dumbledore and the Heads of the four Houses.
At that moment, Dumbledore stood silently before the tall window of his office, watching the snowflakes drift down outside, deep in thought.
After some time, a knock sounded at the door. Moments later, four figures entered the room.
"Have all the students returned to their common rooms?" Dumbledore asked without turning. He already knew who had come.
"They're all back. We had the prefects escort them and made sure ourselves," Professor McGonagall replied calmly.
"What about Noah and the others? None of them sneaked off?"
"No, they've been quite well-behaved. Perhaps they're planning to leave tomorrow instead," Professor Flitwick answered.
For some reason, at the mention of Noah, his thoughts drifted to that night in the Chamber of Secrets—the boy who had shared incredible insights about the future and shattered the statue of Salazar Slytherin.
That night was truly unforgettable.
To be honest, none of them—including Dumbledore—had expected a child like Noah to have such foresight.
Many of the visions and ideals he spoke of were dreams shared by the professors themselves, yet often deemed unattainable.
Though Noah's words were subtle and cryptic, they were all intelligent enough to extract the key points.
First, Noah feared the future would not be peaceful.
Though the specifics were unclear, his unease was obvious. He intended to prepare—for himself, his friends, and his loved ones.
Second, he hoped that Hogwarts would offer special support to the League of Mages he had founded.
"In the face of magic, all wizards are equal." These were Noah's words—a promise to all who joined the League.
While both points seemed ordinary, combined they revealed a powerful message.
The members of the League of Mages came from diverse backgrounds, but every one of them was outstanding.
Harry and Ron's inclusion had much to do with Dumbledore's support. Dumbledore still remembered how average Harry's magical ability had been prior to joining. But now?
Harry's growth was remarkable.
It was clear—the League Noah created had the potential to transform talented young witches and wizards into extraordinary ones.
Moreover, its three unbreakable rules fostered unity and mutual respect among all magical-born individuals.
Such an organization—united, respectful, and full of promise—deserved Hogwarts' support.
"Perhaps they truly will come to influence all of wizarding Britain someday," Dumbledore said, a bitter smile on his face.
He had a feeling he understood Noah's intentions, though he wasn't certain whether it was for better or worse.
Hogwarts was the foundation of wizarding education in Britain. If the League took root here, and Hogwarts nurtured it, the implications were immense.
Dumbledore didn't dare think too far ahead. The possibilities were both awe-inspiring and terrifying.
As for why Noah had spoken to them at all?
Dumbledore had already figured it out. With only two years left at Hogwarts, Noah wouldn't be around to personally oversee the League for long.
What if, after leaving, he didn't intend for the organization to continue?
Noah might have hoped Dumbledore would take on the responsibility of guiding it into the future.
"By the way, how have your studies been going with the materials Noah gave us?" Dumbledore asked suddenly, breaking the silence.
Noah had given something of great value in return for his request—a notebook on elemental magic, along with four basic elemental spells.
Though the spells were simple, they were the most coveted knowledge among Hogwarts' academic community.
The notes contained fundamental theories, yes—but also Noah's original ideas and hypotheses.
Despite being young and not particularly powerful himself, Noah was a true elemental mage.
And more importantly—he was the student of the Ancient One. Though not formally trained, he possessed her notes.
Even seasoned magicians like Dumbledore could benefit immensely from such insight, especially when paired with basic elemental spells.
Simplicity often held the greatest potential.
Dumbledore knew this better than most. Since receiving Noah's notebook, he had already made significant progress in mastering the content.
"It's astonishing," McGonagall said, nodding toward the others. "I believe Noah adapted methods from the Ancient One. We've all managed to grasp the basics—it's quite remarkable."
"Our Mr. Finniel came well-prepared," Dumbledore said with a sigh. "To think someone so young would have planned this far ahead…"
"Noah never used potions to boost his growth. I investigated his past—he was raised in a Muggle orphanage. Quiet child, always reading," Snape spoke up now. "He's seen things no child his age should have."
"I don't doubt him, Severus. I'm simply… reflecting."
"What's your decision, Albus?" McGonagall asked.
"I'll continue watching over them. Even when I retire, I hope you all will too. But we must ensure that they hold fast to their ideals and their rules. If they ever abandon what they stand for…"
"We understand, Albus."
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Meanwhile, at Malfoy Manor, Wiltshire, England…
"Why are you in such a rush to come home, Draco?"
Lucius Malfoy looked puzzled as he faced his son. The night before, Draco had urgently requested to return home.
Though confused, Lucius complied and pulled a few strings at the Ministry to get him home early.
"I need to speak with you. Alone," Draco said, standing by the doorway instead of heading to his room.
"Oh?"
Lucius's confusion deepened, but he nodded. "Very well. Let's take a walk. It's been too long since we've talked."
Draco exhaled slowly. The winter chill bit at his skin, but his thoughts churned restlessly.
He left his luggage by the door and followed Lucius into the snowy garden.
Snow blanketed everything. The flowers were dormant. The white peacocks had vanished into shelter, and even the usually lively fountains were frozen.
"I've never liked winter, Draco," Lucius murmured. "Never have."
"Me neither, Father."
"But seasons change. After winter comes a new year. Cold as it is now, spring always follows."
"Maybe," Draco muttered.
Lucius frowned. Something about his son seemed… different. Gone was the usual pride and arrogance. He seemed troubled.
"What's wrong, Draco?"
"I'm fine."
"Is there something you need to tell me?"
"…Yes, Father. I—"
Draco paused, then sighed. Some truths had to be shared—regardless of the consequences.
Slowly, he recounted everything: his time with Noah, what Professor Snape had agreed with, the dark future Voldemort's return would bring, Noah's elemental magic, the battle against the basilisk, and finally…
The story of how a twelve-year-old Noah killed a sixteen-year-old Tom Riddle—Lord Voldemort's past self.
He even repeated the entire conversation they had afterward.
At first, Lucius barely reacted.
But as Draco continued, his expression darkened.
The mention of future disasters made him uneasy.
Learning that the basilisk had been slain by elemental magic left him stunned.
And when Draco revealed that Noah had defeated a young Lord Voldemort…
Lucius Malfoy was shocked.
"This… this can't be… How… how is this possible?!"
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