Hearing the Sorting Hat boldly declare that Leo's talent exceeded even Dumbledore's abilities, the headmaster portraits immediately ceased their laughter. Every painted face transformed from amused to gravely serious, ancient eyes reflecting newfound respect and wariness.
Every wizard who had earned the position of Hogwarts headmaster represented an exceptional figure of their respective era, necessarily possessing brilliant achievements across multiple magical disciplines. They understood better than most just how formidable the current headmaster truly was... this seemingly gentle, bearded elder whose power had shaped the wizarding world for decades.
Yet now the Sorting Hat openly acknowledged that Leo's raw talent surpassed even Dumbledore's legendary capabilities. The implications sent ripples of stunned silence through the portrait-lined office.
Even Phineas abandoned his characteristic arrogance, staring at the ancient hat with newfound attention and grudging respect.
Dumbledore himself broke the heavy silence, his tone maintaining its characteristic warmth despite the momentous revelation. "Which specific areas of talent are you referencing, old friend?"
"Want to know?" The Sorting Hat's fabric seemed to puff with self-importance. "Then you'll need to provide me with a proper glass display case... positioned in the most prominent location within this office."
Without the slightest hesitation, Dumbledore nodded his agreement. "Consider it done."
The hat's pointed tip swayed with obvious satisfaction. "Transfiguration... he vastly exceeds your abilities in that field, Albus."
Dumbledore received this confirmation with characteristic equanimity. Professor McGonagall had already briefed him extensively on Leo's remarkable demonstration at Ollivanders. Such unprecedented talent didn't surprise him as much as it might have otherwise.
The Sorting Hat, apparently enjoying its newfound position of importance, offered additional insights with generous enthusiasm: "Actually, in the entire field of Transfiguration, Leonardo possesses the most extraordinary aptitude I've witnessed in over a millennium. Without exception."
Absolute silence descended upon the headmaster's office like a heavy blanket. Even the ever-present whisper of magical flames seemed muted by the weight of this revelation.
Dumbledore set aside his cheerful demeanour entirely, processing the profound implications of the hat's assessment. In the background, seemingly oblivious to the tense atmosphere it had created, the Sorting Hat continued its reminiscent commentary:
"You understand, I was created over one thousand years ago and have encountered countless wizards throughout the centuries. Someone like Leonardo represents an entirely unprecedented phenomenon, even for me."
"Remember this well, Albus... guide him properly, and Hogwarts shall achieve greatness beyond imagination!"
The prolonged silence stretched uncomfortably until the hat's voice cut through it again with pointed curiosity: "Why this sudden quiet? You don't imagine Leonardo's gifts are limited to Transfiguration alone, do you?"
"His light magic aptitude matches yours quite closely, Albus. Perhaps you maintain a slight edge, but the margin is negligible."
Dumbledore, having recovered his composure, posed his next question with deceptive casualness: "And what of dark magic abilities?"
"Oh, he surpasses you by a considerable margin in that area."
The headmaster's blue eyes immediately darkened to unfathomable depths, his entire demeanour shifting as decades of carefully maintained wisdom wrestled with instinctive concern.
The wizarding world respectfully hailed him as the strongest wizard of the century, often using the more reverent title "White Wizard King". But Dumbledore also possessed remarkable understanding of dark magic's intricacies. Without extraordinary comprehension of such forbidden arts, how could he have defeated Grindelwald and intimidated Voldemort himself?
"Dark magic..." Dumbledore released a long, weary sigh that seemed to carry the weight of painful memories.
For one treacherous moment, genuine wariness had flickered through his ancient heart. But perhaps such suspicious caution had cost the world a promising student named Tom Riddle, ultimately gifting it with the monster called Voldemort instead.
He refused to repeat that tragic mistake. He would not allow wariness toward a child's natural talents to poison another young wizard's future, regardless of their potential for darkness.
Moreover, Leo had chosen Ravenclaw when given the opportunity. His fundamental nature sought knowledge rather than power, understanding rather than domination.
Somewhat reassured by this reasoning, Dumbledore rose from his chair and moved to the tall window, gazing out at the sparse starlight beginning to fade with approaching dawn.
Genius required guidance, not suppression. Nurturing, not fear.
"I should arrange a conversation with Leonardo soon."
Pale morning light filtered through the dormitory windows as Leo completed his washing routine, simultaneously reviewing his system status panel with practised efficiency.
[Light Magic: S]
[Dark Magic: SS+]
[Defence Arts: S+]
[Transfiguration: SSS]
[Potions: A]
[Alchemy: A+]
[Magical Power: SS]
[Outstanding Loans: Loki's Faceless (335 days), Qilin (335 days), Pet Growth (29 days)]
[Tasks: Perfect mastery of Transfiguration; Use Philosopher's Stone to brew a potion; Record 5 magical creatures]
Leo methodically brushed his teeth while organising his immediate priorities. Transfiguration study demanded constant attention... the standard curriculum's pace would prove woefully inadequate for his ambitious timeline.
First priority: locate advanced texts in the library and request guidance from Professor McGonagall. The Philosopher's Stone remained inaccessible in the short term, but potion-brewing practice could begin immediately.
His upcoming Forbidden Forest expeditions would certainly require alchemical assistance. Creature-attracting baits, calming draughts, scent-masking potions... proper preparation could mean the difference between successful observation and dangerous encounters.
Today's library visit needed to encompass multiple disciplines: advanced Transfiguration theory, comprehensive Potions texts, and detailed references covering the Forbidden Forest's terrain and species distribution.
Having organised his mental checklist, Leo completed his morning routine efficiently. Terry remained deeply asleep, his breathing steady and peaceful in the predawn quiet. Rather than disturb his roommate prematurely, Leo gathered his Charms textbook and prepared for an early breakfast.
He positioned the school-issued magical alarm clock on Terry's nightstand with careful precision, then drew his wand and cast a subtle Amplifying Charm on the device. That should guarantee he wakes up on time.
Emerging from their dormitory into the common room's circular chamber, a familiar voice called out with pleasant surprise:
"Leonardo? You're awake remarkably early!"
Turning toward the sound, Leo discovered Cho Chang had also risen before dawn. Her usually flowing black hair was secured in a high, practical ponytail, and she carried a sleek racing broomstick with obvious familiarity.
"Good morning, Cho." Leo's greeting carried genuine warmth. "Training session today?"
"Exactly!" She lifted her broomstick with athletic pride. "No classes scheduled, so I'm joining our house team's Quidditch practice. The season starts soon, and we need all the preparation we can manage."
The transformation from quiet, studious second-year to confident athlete was striking. Energy and determination radiated from her petite frame, her dark eyes bright with competitive fire.
"I'm heading to the Great Hall for breakfast. Care to walk together?"
Leo nodded agreement... the route was identical regardless. Cho shouldered her broomstick and quickly matched his pace as they exited the common room together, their footsteps echoing softly down the tower's spiral staircase.
Glancing at the textbook tucked under Leo's arm, Cho asked with friendly curiosity: "Charms class this morning?"
"First lesson of the term, actually."
"Perfect! You'll be meeting our Head of House. Professor Flitwick possesses incredible knowledge and treats students wonderfully. I think you'll enjoy his teaching style."
As they navigated the castle's winding corridors, they encountered one of Hogwarts' famous moving staircases. Cho offered helpful guidance with the ease of experience:
"Fair warning, Leonardo... these staircases change positions regularly. New students often get confused initially, but the portraits provide excellent directions when asked politely."
She demonstrated by waving cheerfully at a nearby painted gentleman, who returned the gesture with obvious delight.
Leo observed the shifting architecture and interactive artwork with genuine fascination. The magical engineering of Hogwarts Castle never ceased to amaze him... a thousand-year-old fortress containing layers upon layers of enchantment and mystery.
How many secrets lie hidden within these ancient stones? The obvious wonders alone could occupy young wizards for years, not counting the numerous secret passages and hidden chambers that even successive headmasters probably couldn't catalogue completely.
"Thank you for the guidance, Cho."
His sincere appreciation brought a subtle flush of pleasure to her cheeks. "Don't mention it! Feel free to ask if you need help with anything else. Ravenclaws look after each other."
They soon reached the Great Hall's enormous doors. After sharing a companionable breakfast, they parted ways... Cho headed toward the Quidditch pitch with athletic determination, while Leo sought out his first classroom.
Following helpful directions from various portraits and the occasionally encountered ghost, Leo successfully located the Charms classroom well ahead of schedule. The empty chamber felt peaceful in the early morning quiet, sunlight streaming through tall windows to illuminate rows of desks and chairs.
He selected a strategic seat in the middle section toward the outer edge, providing optimal views of both the professor and any practical demonstrations. Opening his "Common Charms Encyclopaedia", Leo settled into comfortable study, absorbing advanced theory while patiently awaiting his first official lesson at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.