Chapter 26: Letters of Destiny
The sun had barely risen over Gotham, casting a warm orange glow over Wayne Manor's vast estate. Inside, Barrett sat in his study, absorbed in yet another experiment. A sleek metallic drone hovered beside him, its blue optics blinking as it projected an array of holographic symbols. This latest project was an attempt to integrate magical shielding into his technology—a concept most wizards would scoff at. But Barrett wasn't most wizards.
A sudden thud from the hallway broke his concentration. Frowning, he turned toward the door. The sound wasn't loud enough to be an intruder, and Alfred was too graceful to drop anything. Setting his project aside, Barrett strode over, opening the door to find two envelopes lying on the polished wooden floor.
He picked them up, instantly recognizing the faint pulse of magic emanating from them. The first bore a wax seal embossed with an ornate 'H,' the emblem of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The second, however, displayed a coiled serpent entwined with a thunderbird—Ilvermorny's crest.
"Well, this is interesting."
Barrett carried both letters to his desk, his mind racing. He had anticipated this moment, but now that it was here, he couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement. He carefully unsealed the Hogwarts letter first, revealing its contents.
The Letter from Hogwarts
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Headmaster: Albus Dumbledore
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Supreme Mugwump, Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, Grand Sorcerer)
Dear Mr. Wayne,
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 1st September. We await your owl by no later than 31st July.
Yours sincerely,
Professor Minerva McGonagall
Deputy Headmistress
A second sheet listed the required materials:
Uniform: Three sets of plain work robes (black), one pointed hat for day wear, and a pair of protective gloves. Books: Titles included The Standard Book of Spells (Grade 1) by Miranda Goshawk and A Beginner's Guide to Transfiguration by Emeric Switch. Other Equipment: A wand, a cauldron (pewter, standard size 2), a set of glass or crystal phials, a telescope, and a set of brass scales. Pets: Students may bring an owl, a cat, or a toad.
A final note read:
First-year students are not allowed their own broomsticks.
Barrett smirked. "No broomsticks? Guess they've never seen a 14-winged Fallen Angel fly."
The Letter from Ilvermorny
The second letter exuded a different kind of magic. The parchment was smoother, almost modern in texture, but the words were no less official.
Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry
Headmaster: Isolt Stewart II
Dear Mr. Wayne,
Congratulations! You have been selected to join the proud ranks of Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where magical excellence meets innovation and diversity.
Our institution, nestled atop Mount Greylock, has long been a beacon for magical learning in North America. Your admission to Ilvermorny is a testament to your extraordinary potential. We offer unique opportunities to specialize in areas such as Magical Theory, Advanced Spellcraft, and Magical Integration with Non-Magical Technologies.
Term begins on 1st September. Please find enclosed your list of required materials and respond using the accompanying enchanted quill.
We eagerly await your acceptance.
Warm regards,
Professor Alexandra Hawthorne
Deputy Headmistress
Attached was a sleek, metallic quill enchanted to write replies automatically. Barrett found it fascinating that Ilvermorny emphasized innovation and magical technology integration, but he wasn't sure if he needed that.
"Both schools have their merits," Ultron's voice chimed in from the holographic projection above his desk. "Ilvermorny aligns with your technological pursuits, but Hogwarts carries a legacy unmatched by any other institution."
Barrett nodded, fingers tapping against the wooden surface. "Hogwarts it is. It's where everything started, and its resources are vast. Besides, I've always wanted to walk through that castle."
"An excellent choice, sir."
Barrett smirked. "And I think I know just how to reply."
Sending the Response
Instead of using an enchanted quill or an owl, Barrett decided to have a little fun. He summoned one of his enchanted tech drones—a sleek metallic sphere no larger than a grapefruit. Modified with cloaking abilities and enhanced flight mechanisms, it was his own personal courier.
Attaching his response to Hogwarts, he programmed the drone to navigate to the castle, cloaked for safety.
Dear Professor McGonagall,
I am honored to accept my place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Expect my arrival on 1st September.
Sincerely,
Barrett Wayne
The drone activated, letting out a soft hum before zipping out of the manor, leaving behind a faint trail of magic-infused energy.
Ultron tilted his head. "Do you think they'll appreciate the modern touch?"
Barrett laughed. "Probably not, but that's half the fun."
With the letters sent, Barrett knew that the next chapter of his life was beginning. His decision to attend Hogwarts was more than just choosing a school—it was about stepping into a world that had existed in the shadows of his own. He was ready to explore, to learn, and to bring his own touch of modern innovation to a world still trapped in tradition.
For now, he returned to his studies, preparing for what was sure to be an unforgettable journey into the magical world.