A Second Chance at Fate

Mahoutokoro Year 1-4 (1971-1974)

Petunia Veronica Shafiq Evans stepped off the boat onto the shores of Mahoutokoro with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Though she had spent the last few years learning the basics of magic and the wizarding world, her journey at Mahoutokoro was set to be far more challenging. The school, nestled on the slopes of Mount Minami, had a reputation for cultivating students with sharp minds, curiosity, and confidence. It was a place where boundaries were tested, and knowledge was coveted. It was there, in the House of Shunrai, that Petunia would find both her struggles and her strengths.

Shunrai was a house known for its bold thinkers, those who were never afraid to push the limits of what was known. Confidence wasn’t just a trait—it was a necessity. The students of Shunrai were known for their thirst for knowledge, often challenging even the most well-established traditions. Petunia felt a connection to that in theory, but in practice, it was far harder to embody.

At first, Petunia found herself at odds with everything around her. Mahoutokoro’s language, the rhythm of the Japanese dialect, was like a tangled string she couldn’t untangle. Writing, reading, and speaking felt like wading through thick fog. The culture, too, was a vast ocean she had to learn to navigate, from the different customs and etiquette to the fascinating music that echoed through the halls. The cuisine was unlike anything she’d ever tasted before, and even the simplest dishes sent her stomach into uneasy knots at first.

Yet, it wasn’t just the environment that challenged her—it was her magic. Petunia’s unique magical abilities were powerful but unruly. Unlike her peers, she couldn’t easily control her magical output. Instead, her magic would often surge in unpredictable bursts, pulling her thoughts and creativity in all directions. She would write incessantly about different places, universes, and futures, her wand trembling with each inked word. At first, she had no control over this output, and it distracted her from the structured magic required by her courses.

Her first year was marked by her struggle to focus. Astronomy classes left her distracted, her mind wandering to distant stars and constellations that had no place in the curriculum. Charms felt like a constant battle to rein in the runaway magic her wand unleashed, and Potions often ended with ingredients fizzing and bubbling out of control. Even Defense Against the Dark Arts was a challenge, as her mind’s eye would wander to alternate realities, forgetting the importance of the specific spellwork in front of her.

But Mahoutokoro was a place that thrived on cultivating potential, not just immediate success. Despite her struggles, Petunia’s professors saw the spark within her. Professor Mori, who taught Transfiguration, was the first to recognize her difficulty in focusing her magic and encouraged her to embrace the chaos in her creative mind. “Learn to harness it,” she advised. “Your magic doesn’t have to be tamed—it just has to be guided.”

Slowly, Petunia began to adapt. By the second year, she had started to control the torrents of her mind and magic, learning to channel her thoughts into her studies, allowing her unique form of magic to enhance her learning rather than hinder it. Astronomy became her favorite class, not because of the constellations she was supposed to study, but because the professor encouraged her to use her mind to wander. “A curious mind,” he would say, “is the gateway to understanding the stars.”

Her confidence began to grow as she adapted to the challenges of Mahoutokoro, excelling in her elective courses. In Alchemy, she could focus her erratic magic into the precise combinations needed for a successful potion. Arithmancy proved fascinating, as she began to see patterns and numerical relationships in the world around her, something her wandering mind naturally gravitated towards. Her work with Ancient Runes opened new pathways for her magic, giving her access to powerful symbols and languages that resonated deeply with her creative essence.

As her magic became more in sync with her environment, Petunia found herself increasingly drawn to the extra-curricular activities offered at Mahoutokoro. Flying lessons, where she rode brooms, magic carpets, and even magical creatures, gave her the sense of freedom she craved. The dynamic nature of flying gave her the ability to express her magic in new, liberating ways, allowing her creative mind to fly without boundaries. The Yoga, Mental Arts, and Martial Arts classes helped her learn discipline and control, centering her focus and giving her better mental clarity for her magical studies.

By the time she reached her fourth year, Petunia’s transformation was nothing short of extraordinary. The once-distracted and overwhelmed student had evolved into one of the brightest and most creative students in the House of Shunrai. Her peers looked to her for inspiration, admiring her ability to test the boundaries of both magic and knowledge, and her unwavering thirst for understanding. She had not only found her place at Mahoutokoro but had also come to realize that her unique magic, with all its unpredictability, was her greatest strength.

Petunia had learned to embrace the challenges that once seemed insurmountable. The languages, the culture, the cuisine—all were now familiar parts of her life. She understood the harmony between her magic and the world around her. With a heart full of confidence and a mind brimming with curiosity, Petunia Veronica Shafiq Evans had truly found her home in Mahoutokoro, and there was no limit to the knowledge she would continue to seek in the years to come.

Petunia also tried to keep in touch with her family and friends at England and Hogwarts.

September 15th, Year 1

Dear Lily,

I hope you’re doing well! I’ve only been at Mahoutokoro for a few weeks, but it feels like I’ve been here forever already. The school is amazing—so different from anything I’ve ever seen before. The buildings are all made of beautiful wood and stone, and there are magical creatures flying overhead all the time. It’s a bit overwhelming, to be honest. Everything here is new—new language, new customs, new food, even new ways of doing magic. I’m still struggling to keep up, especially with the writing and the language. The Japanese words are like a puzzle, and I feel like I’m constantly trying to find the right pieces.

But the magic, Lily! It’s so different from what we learned back home. Some of the spells we’re learning here don’t even look like the ones we practiced. At first, I thought I’d completely messed up when I tried casting the simplest charms. My wand kept pulling me in strange directions. My professor said I have a unique magical ability—one that doesn’t fit neatly into their traditional methods. I’m not sure if that’s a good thing or a bad thing, but I’m trying to figure it out.

The other students here are so confident and sure of themselves. I don’t think I’ve met anyone who’s as unsure as I am! They come from all over Japan, and they know how to make things work, even when they’re faced with challenges. I think I’ll need to be a lot braver if I want to fit in.

I’ll write again soon, but please don’t worry about me too much. I’m sure I’ll get the hang of things eventually.

Love, Petunia

October 30th, Year 1

Dear Lily,

I’ve been here for over a month now, and I’m starting to feel a bit more at home. The classes are still tough, but I’m managing. I’ve realized that my magic is a bit... unruly. It’s like it wants to do its own thing, and I’m just trying to keep up. In Astronomy, for example, I keep seeing things in the stars that aren’t there—not things we’re supposed to study, just other things. It’s hard to explain, but my professor said it’s a sign of a creative mind, so maybe it’s not a bad thing after all. He encouraged me to let my imagination roam. At first, it just felt like I was failing the class, but now I think I’m starting to see the value in it.

The food is still an adventure—there are so many new flavors, and some of them are... well, interesting. There’s one dish called takoyaki that has octopus in it. I wasn’t sure what to think at first, but it’s growing on me. You would laugh at me trying to use chopsticks. I’ll have to get better at it if I want to fit in properly. Everyone here is so graceful with them, while I end up making a mess every time.

You’d be proud of me, though. I’ve started to get the hang of Flying lessons! I’m not perfect, but I’m better than I expected. The brooms are a little different here, and there are also flying carpets and magical creatures to ride. I know, it sounds ridiculous, but I actually enjoy it. I’m getting used to the idea of flying without feeling like I’m going to fall off at any second. Maybe when I come home for the holidays, I’ll show you some of what I’ve learned!

There’s still so much to figure out, but I’m getting there. My magic is still all over the place, but I’m starting to feel like I’m gaining control. It’s just... well, it’s a lot, and I’m trying to stay calm through it all. The professors here are incredibly kind and patient with me, especially when I get distracted by my own magic. I think I’ve found my place here.

How are things at home? Tell Mum and Dad I miss them, and give Severus a big hug from me. I can’t wait to hear how things are going for you!

Love you lots, Petunia

January 25th, Year 2

Dear Lily,

I’ve been thinking a lot about what you said in your last letter—about your friendship with James and the others, and how things have been feeling a little off lately. I know it’s hard, especially with someone like James always pushing boundaries, but I think I understand a bit of what you’re going through.

I get the feeling that sometimes you’re torn between wanting to be supportive and just wanting some peace. James is persistent, isn’t he? You’ve told me before that he’s charming, but I can hear in your letters that you’re starting to feel a little worn down by the constant attention, especially with the whole “marriage proposal” thing. I won’t tell you what to do, but maybe it’s time to have a serious conversation with him about your boundaries. He’s been so focused on trying to win your favor that I think he’s lost sight of respecting your feelings. If you don’t want to take things to the next level, it’s okay to make that clear.

I know it’s easier said than done, especially when everyone’s around, laughing and joking all the time. You’re such a good friend to everyone—especially to Severus, which I’m sure helps, but I don’t want you to feel like you have to put up with anything that makes you uncomfortable just to keep the peace. You deserve friends who truly respect you for who you are, not just as the “object of affection” that James seems to see sometimes.

About the rest of the Marauders—I think they’re just trying to find their place too, you know? They act out because they don’t always know how to handle their own emotions. You know what Sirius is like—he always has to be the center of attention, but underneath that show, he’s probably a lot more uncertain than he lets on. And Remus... well, you already know he’s struggling with his own demons, and sometimes he hides behind his books and wit.

If you ever need someone to talk to, you know I’m here for you. And if you want advice on how to handle James or just need a little escape, don’t hesitate to write.

As for Severus—he misses you. He really does. But I think he’s still figuring things out, just like the rest of us.

Take care of yourself, Lily. Please, don’t feel like you have to settle for anything less than you deserve.

Love,
Petunia

December 5th, Year 2

Dear Lily,

I’ve just finished my second term, and things are finally starting to click into place. It’s like everything is coming together. I’m still learning so much, but the language is much easier now, and I’m beginning to feel more comfortable with the classes. Professor Mori has been amazing with me. She says my magic is “creative” and that it’s just a matter of learning to channel it. I finally managed to get a simple charm right last week, and I felt so proud! It was like a little victory over the chaos that’s been swirling in my head since I got here.

The electives I’m taking are fascinating. Arithmancy is becoming one of my favorites, even though it’s a little tricky. The numbers and symbols seem to speak to me in a way I can’t fully explain. And Ancient Runes is incredible! There’s something about those old symbols that makes my magic feel more grounded, like I’m tapping into something ancient and powerful. I wish you could see it! I know you’d find it fascinating, too.

Flying lessons are still going well, though I’m getting a bit bolder with the different creatures we’re riding now. I even rode a griffin last week! It was exhilarating and terrifying all at once. I think I’m getting braver, Lily. I know it sounds odd, but I feel like this place is pushing me to be someone I never thought I could be—stronger, more confident, and more curious.

I do miss home, of course, but I feel like I’m learning so much about myself here. It’s strange, but I think Mahoutokoro is exactly where I’m supposed to be.

I can’t wait to tell you more about everything next time I write. Stay well, and don’t forget to write back!

Love, Petunia

September 18th, Year 1

Dear Severus,

I miss you. It’s only been a couple of weeks, but everything here at Mahoutokoro is so different from what I’m used to. The school itself is breathtaking—imagine the largest castle you can think of, but built into the side of a mountain, with magical creatures flying around everywhere. There’s a lake, too, but it’s not like the one near Hogwarts. This one’s almost too peaceful, if that makes sense. I’m still adjusting, and it’s been... difficult.

The language is the biggest challenge so far. I can barely understand half of what people are saying, let alone write properly. The classes are hard too. My magic’s all over the place—spilling out of me in strange bursts. Here, I keep thinking I’m doing things right, only for something to go horribly wrong. My professor says it’s because I have “unique” magic, but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating.

I know you’ll understand, though. You’ve always been the one who gets me. I can’t tell you how much I wish you were here. I know you’d probably have a field day with all the differences in the magical theory, but I can’t seem to keep up with it all.

I keep thinking about how much easier everything would be if you were by my side. Things were simple back home with you—well, simple-ish. I could just focus on my studies without feeling like my magic was going haywire. Maybe I’ll figure it out soon, though. There’s got to be a way to bring some order to this madness.

Write back soon, okay? I could really use your words of wisdom right about now.

Yours always,
Petunia

October 14th, Year 1

Severus,

I’ve been here for a month now, and things are starting to get better—just starting. I’m still struggling with my classes, but I think I’m getting the hang of some of them. Potions is a bit of a mess, honestly. You remember how I was never the best at following instructions precisely? Well, now that my magic’s unpredictable, it’s even harder to keep everything under control. I try to brew the potions exactly as they say, but sometimes my wand just starts to glow, and I get distracted. You’d probably laugh at how many times I’ve accidentally made the wrong ingredient burst out of the cauldron. The others think I’m a bit... odd, especially since I’ve been writing about all kinds of bizarre places and universes in my spare time, but I’m trying to figure out how to make it work. Maybe it’s a good thing?

The rest of the students here are intimidating, to be honest. They’re all so confident. I can’t even imagine what you’d be like at a school like this—you’d probably blend in right away. They’re all so sure of themselves, and here I am, still trying to figure out how to keep my magic from flying off in random directions.

You know, Severus, I keep thinking about the way things were with us. Back home, I always knew what you were thinking without you saying a word. It feels a bit like that here, too, in a strange way. I think it’s because I’m still struggling to find my place, but I can’t help but wish that we could have stayed at Hogwarts together. I think we’d have made a pretty good team, even if we drove everyone crazy.

I don’t know. I’m trying to stay focused, but I miss you more than I thought I would. Maybe you’ll have some advice for me when you write back.

Please write soon. I need to hear from you, Severus.

Yours,
Petunia

November 9th, Year 1

Severus,

I’ve managed to cast my first proper advance charm! I know it’s only a variation of the simplest of charms, but it felt like such an achievement, I had to tell you. It was a variation of the Levitation Charm, and my professor was impressed enough that he said I should keep at it. I’m still not as confident as I should be, and there’s still so much that’s difficult for me, but for the first time, it felt like maybe, just maybe, I could do this.

I’ve also decided to take Flying lessons (I know, I know, it’s not something I thought I’d ever enjoy). I’m still nervous, but the thought of soaring through the air on a broom... it’s freeing, even if it’s terrifying. I’m getting better at it, and I’ll admit, I find myself looking forward to the lessons now. Can you imagine me, up in the air with a broomstick? I’m almost laughing at myself for it, but there’s something peaceful about it.

There’s something odd about being here, though. I feel... different. Maybe it’s the isolation, or the new magic, or just the fact that I’m not used to being alone. I thought I’d fit in easily, but sometimes, it feels like I’m still in the wrong place. The food is strange, the culture is unfamiliar, and there’s no one to talk to about it like I used to with you. I don’t think anyone here would understand what I’m going through—not like you would.

Please, Severus, tell me how you’re doing. You’ve always been able to sort through things when they got tough. I don’t know if I’m managing as well as I thought I would.

I can’t wait for your letter.

Yours,
Petunia

December 3rd, Year 1

Severus,

You’re probably going to laugh when you hear this, but I’ve actually made some progress. I finally managed to brew a potion properly in class (no explosions this time). My professor said I might have “untapped potential” in Potions. I can’t believe it. It’s still difficult, but I can feel the difference when I focus more on the process and less on the result. It’s funny how, the more I just let go, the easier it becomes. I suppose that’s the opposite of what I thought would work, but you were always better at figuring out the method behind things than I was.

You won’t believe this either, but I think I’ve actually found something I’m really good at: Ancient Runes. I can’t explain it, but it feels natural. There’s something about the symbols that speaks to me. I know it probably sounds odd, but it’s like the magic flows through me when I work with the runes. Maybe it’s the same feeling you get when you’re perfecting a potion or studying something that requires precision. I don’t know, but it feels like a breakthrough.

I’m still struggling in a lot of areas, but I’m learning. Slowly, but I am. You know me—I won’t give up. I’m still not sure how I’m going to make all this work, but I’m managing. And you? How are you? I hope you’re finding some peace, at least. I can’t wait to hear about what you’re up to.

Please don’t forget me, Severus. I’m counting on your advice.

Yours,
Petunia

February 2nd, Year 2

Dear Severus,

I know we’ve talked about the Marauders before, and I get the feeling you’re still struggling with your feelings about them. I won’t sugarcoat it—they’re a lot to deal with, especially James. But I think there’s something you should keep in mind, and I want you to think about this before you let your anger and frustration take over.

Yes, they’re reckless and impulsive, especially James and Sirius, but there’s a reason they’re constantly pushing boundaries. They’re trying to find their place in the world, too. I know it doesn’t make it any easier to deal with their antics, but sometimes I think they act out because they don’t know any other way to handle things. For them, being the center of attention or making jokes is the only way they feel validated. But that doesn’t mean you have to tolerate their behavior. It’s okay to set your boundaries.

That said, I think you should try to find a way to understand where they’re coming from. You’ve already got your sharp mind and deep understanding of people, Severus. You’ve always been able to see things clearly, but maybe you’ve been focusing too much on their flaws instead of their motives. James and Sirius might not be the best at handling emotions, but I don’t think they’re bad people. At the end of the day, they’re your friends, maybe you need to have serious talk with them to make them understand your boundaries, based on you own words they don't do it out malice, plus such a big group of friends as you have, things are bound to happen.

As for the Animagus transformation... that’s a tricky one. I can’t imagine what it must be like to be stuck in that kind of process, especially when they don’t seem to take it seriously. But Severus, you’ve always had a control over your magic that others lack. You just need to be patient with yourself. It won’t happen overnight, but I know that with your skill and dedication, you’ll manage it eventually. You’re already better at controlling your magic than most people are at their best, so trust yourself.

But seriously—try to relax a little. I know that sounds ridiculous coming from me, of all people, but you don’t have to be perfect all the time. Just take a breath, and focus on your progress. I’ll be here cheering you on.

I’m sure things will get better. Just remember—you don’t have to do everything alone, even if it feels like it sometimes.

Always here for you,
Petunia

March 10th, Year 2

Dear Lily and Severus,

I’ve been thinking about both of you a lot lately—how you’re both navigating your friendships with the Marauders, and with each other. I know there are days when everything feels overwhelming, but please don’t forget that you both have incredible minds, and that’s something you can lean on when things get tough.

Lily, I know James can be intense sometimes, and I see how it’s starting to get to you. If you need to talk to him again about your feelings, just remember to be honest with him. I know it’s hard when you feel like you’re being pulled in two directions, but you’re allowed to set the terms of your relationship with him. He may be insistent, but that doesn’t mean you owe him anything. Trust your instincts and tell him what you really need. I know you’ve always been diplomatic, but it’s okay to be firm, especially with him. The rest of the Marauders might understand if they see you standing your ground—they’ll respect you for it, even if they don’t always show it.

Severus, I know you have your doubts about the Marauders, and I’m sure they’ve unintentionally hurt you in ways that are hard to notice by outsiders. But I think it’s time for you to think about how much control they’re actually taking from you. I’ve seen you grow so much in the last few years, and I know you’re capable of standing up for yourself. But that doesn’t mean you should push people away entirely. The Marauders, for all their faults, are still human, and they’re trying to figure things out just like you. I’m not saying you have to let them get away with everything, but maybe try to find some peace within yourself. You’re in control of your actions, no matter how they act.

And about the Animagus transformation... Lily, Severus, I will send later a potion that should help, just a warning it's very difficult potion. I know it seems like a challenge, and sometimes it feels like you’ll never get it right. But it’s a long process, and as with anything in magic, the more time you dedicate, the closer you get. Severus, you’re already better at it than most students at Hogwarts, I promise you. Just take it one step at a time. And Lily, your patience will pay off, too. The Marauders have their reasons for doing things this way, but don’t let them pressure you into being anything other than yourself. I wish I could do the Animagus training too, but my professor said not to try until 5th year because my core previous rupture left my magic to unstable to try the Animagus transformation, so I will be cheering on from here.

I hope this helps—just know that both of you are strong, and I believe in you.

Take care,
Petunia

October 10th, Year 1

Dear Mum and Dad,

I hope everything’s going well at home. I’ve been keeping busy with my studies here at Mahoutokoro, but I miss you both terribly. The school is… different. I’m still adjusting to the language, and the food is sometimes an adventure (there’s one dish with eel that I’m still not quite sure how I feel about), but I’m starting to settle in. The professors here are brilliant, though I’m still struggling a bit with the magic.

I’m still having a hard time keeping my magic under control—there are moments when I feel like it’s slipping away from me—but I’m doing my best. I think I’ll have it figured out soon. I’ve managed to get through my classes without too many disasters, but there’s always something new to learn here.

How’s everything at home? How’s Eileen doing? I miss her, even though I know I’ll see her soon enough. I’ll write more soon, but please know that I’m thinking of you both.

Love,
Petunia

December 1st, Year 2

Dear Mum and Dad,

It’s been a while since I last wrote, but I thought I’d update you on how things are going here. The school is as beautiful as ever, though I’m still getting used to all the new ways they approach magic. Potions is my most challenging class, but I’m working on it. I’ve made a breakthrough with my Herbology work—I’ve managed to revive a dying plant, which, to be honest, felt like the biggest victory!

I’m getting more comfortable with the language as well, though there are still times when I feel like I’m not saying things quite right. The other students are very patient with me, which I’m thankful for. They’ve all been incredibly kind, and it’s making the transition easier.

The food continues to be a strange adventure—there’s something called okonomiyaki that I can’t quite decide if I like yet—but I’m slowly adjusting to it all.

I know you must miss me, but I promise I’m doing well. I’m even starting to enjoy some of the more challenging parts of the lessons. Even Flying is going better! I’m still a bit nervous on the broom, but it’s definitely growing on me.

I’ll be home for the holidays soon, and I can’t wait to see you both again. Give Eileen my love.

Love,
Petunia

March 15th, Year 2

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Macmillan,

I hope you’re both doing well. I’ve just wrapped up a rather intense term, as I’ve worked through some of the more difficult spells and potions. I’ve even managed to complete a few experiments successfully.

The students here are, as always, wonderfully skilled, but there’s something to be said for the importance of collaboration, and I’ve come to see that more clearly.

I look forward to seeing you both when I come home for the summer break. I’m hoping to make some more significant progress in my studies by then, especially in Transfiguration. As always, thank you for everything. Your kindness has made all the difference during this transition.

Best regards,
Petunia Veronica Shafiq Evans

February 5th, Year 2

Dear Mr. Prewett,

I hope you’re doing well. I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for your guidance during my time here at Mahoutokoro. I’m not sure I could have made it through the first year without the advice you offered, especially when it came to focusing my magic. The way you spoke about the importance of understanding your unique abilities really stuck with me.

It’s still a challenge to keep my magic from getting out of control, but I’m improving every day. I’ve found that taking a step back and truly focusing on the intent behind the magic has been the key for me. I know I still have a long way to go, but I believe I’m on the right path.

I’m continuing to make progress in all my subjects, though Astronomy is still a bit of a struggle. Some of the constellations seem to pull my attention away from the subject matter entirely, which makes it difficult to concentrate.

Thank you again for your encouragement, and I look forward to updating you on my progress when I return home.

Sincerely,
Petunia Veronica Shafiq Evans

May 20th, Year 2

Dear Mr. Prewett,

I hope this letter finds you well. I’ve been spending a great deal of time focusing on my studies, especially in Potions and Herbology, and I’m happy to report that I’m making steady progress. It’s still difficult at times, especially when my magic seems to go off in unexpected directions, but I’m learning to better direct it.

I’ve found a certain peace in my approach to magic, thanks to your advice. It’s become clear that the more I try to force my abilities, the more they slip away. Allowing the magic to flow naturally has been a breakthrough for me.

The term is wrapping up, and I can’t believe how quickly the year has gone. I’ll be returning home soon, and I’m looking forward to catching up with family.

I appreciate your continued support and look forward to sharing more of my progress with you in the near future.

Sincerely,
Petunia Veronica Shafiq Evans

Petunia’s third and fourth years at the magical academy were filled with a whirlwind of activity. As she entered her third year, her abilities began to grow more complex—and more challenging to control. Her unique gift as a seer, the ability to glimpse the future and read the unseen, made her both revered and overwhelmed. Every vision she had brought more confusion than clarity, and her magical power was growing in strength, but she lacked the experience to harness it.

To support her, the academy assigned a magical tutor, an older and more seasoned seer named Orla, who had once been a student of legendary repute herself. Orla was both patient and firm, understanding that Petunia’s power needed careful cultivation. The tutor spent countless hours with Petunia, guiding her through meditative practices to sharpen her vision and teaching her how to control the surge of energy that accompanied each prophetic glimpse.

The intense focus on her abilities didn’t leave much room for the usual distractions of childhood. Petunia’s days were filled with classes—basic spell craft, magical theory, and divination—each demanding her full attention. When not in class, she was either working with Orla or meditating alone to keep her seer abilities from overwhelming her. As much as Petunia wanted to embrace the freedom of her age, there was always the pressing weight of her future looming.

By the end of her fourth year, Petunia had made remarkable progress. The visions that once caused her anxiety had now become tools, part of a finely honed skillset. She could now control the flow of her prophetic insights, using them to predict outcomes with surprising accuracy. No longer was her magic a chaotic force; it was a refined power that she could wield with intention.

Her hard work and dedication paid off in other ways too. By the end of her fourth year, Petunia had finally earned her place among the top 10 students at the academy—an achievement that seemed almost impossible when she had first arrived, struggling with her uncontrolled power. She had gained confidence not only in her abilities as a seer but in herself as a student and future leader in the magical world.

Through it all, Petunia had learned that mastery over her magic wasn’t just about power—it was about understanding herself and her connection to the world of magic. The busy years had shaped her into someone ready for whatever challenges lay ahead.

Dear Mum and Dad,

I’m so sorry it’s been so long since I last wrote—I’m absolutely swamped with work here. My schedule is packed, and every day feels like it’s full of classes, lectures, and assignments. Mahoutokoro really doesn’t give you a moment to breathe, but somehow I’m managing.

I’ve been assigned a magical tutor, someone named Master Kagari, who’s been helping me with my unique abilities. It’s been… strange, to say the least. You wouldn’t believe the number of times I’ve had visions in the middle of class—places I’ve never been, people I’ve never met, and futures I don’t remember living. At first, I couldn’t control it at all. My magic was running wild, and it was terrifying. But Master Kagari has been patient with me, teaching me how to focus, how to direct my energy, and how to keep the visions in check.

I’m still not entirely sure I understand what’s happening, but I’m learning to use my abilities to my advantage, rather than feeling like they’re controlling me. I know it’s a strange thing to ask about, but it’s been difficult to explain to anyone else here—except for Master Kagari, of course.

My coursework has been grueling. The classes on Ancient Magic, Astronomy, and Advanced Potions have been especially tough, and I barely have time for anything else these days. I can’t help but think of how much easier it was back at Hogwarts, when I could focus on just one thing at a time. Here, everything moves so quickly, and I feel like I’m always scrambling to keep up. But the good news is that by the end of this term, I should finally be one of the top students in my year. It’s taken a lot of effort, but I’m getting there!

I’ll be home soon for the holidays. I can’t wait to see you both.

Love,
Petunia

January 14th, Year 4

Dear Mum and Dad,

I can’t believe the year is halfway over already. It feels like it’s flying by—though I’m not sure that’s a good thing or a bad thing. My magical tutor, Master Kagari, has been working me harder than ever, but I’m starting to get the hang of everything. I finally have a little more control over my visions and magic, which has made a huge difference in how I approach my classes. Transfiguration and Charms are still a struggle, but I think I’m getting better, thanks to the extra time I’ve been able to put in.

As for my tutor, he’s been very insistent on refining my techniques and showing me new ways to center my mind. The visions still come, but I’m starting to accept them instead of fight them. They’re not always easy to interpret, but Master Kagari says it’s a part of my magic, and I just need to learn to work with it.

This term has been intense. I’ve been taking Alchemy, Ancient Runes, and Magical Theory as electives on top of my regular classes. I’m always on the move from one lecture to the next, and when I do have free time, it’s usually spent working on my magical studies. I’ve been able to finally make sense of the complex magical theories they teach here, and I think I’m starting to see what everyone meant when they said I had great potential. It’s starting to feel like I can really do this.

I’ll be home for the summer break soon enough, and I look forward to it more than anything. I can’t wait to take a break from all the pressure and just relax with you and Lily.

Sending love,
Petunia

April 2nd, Year 4

Dear Mum and Dad,

I can’t believe how quickly this year is flying by! I’ve had my head down with so much work, but I wanted to take a moment to let you know how I’m doing. First, I’m happy to report that by the end of this term, I’ve finally made it into the top 10 students of my year! It’s been an absolute struggle to get here, but all my hard work has paid off. My tutors and professors are starting to take notice, and it feels like everything is finally starting to come together.

The visions have also been less overwhelming. Master Kagari and I have worked tirelessly to refine my magic, and now I feel like I’m finally in control. I still get flashes of future events or places I’ve never been, but now I can stop them before they take over my mind. It’s exhausting, but it’s also exhilarating. My magic is no longer a source of anxiety. It feels more like a tool I can use.

In my downtime, I’ve been making progress in some of my electives. Magical Travel and Ancient Magic are both fascinating, and I think they’ve helped me understand the more esoteric parts of magic. I’ve even managed to make some breakthroughs in Potions! I was able to brew a potion that’s considered incredibly difficult, and for the first time, it didn’t explode in my face.

I’m starting to feel more confident about my abilities, but I know I still have a long way to go. I’ll keep working hard, but I’m looking forward to the break when I get home. I really need a few days to recharge.

I miss you both more than I can say.

Love,
Petunia

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Macmillan,

I hope this letter finds you well. I just wanted to write and let you know that things are going wonderfully here at Mahoutokoro. I’ve made significant progress with my magic this year, and I’m finally in control of it in a way I’ve never been before. I

Master Kagari, my tutor, has been invaluable in helping me refine my abilities, especially when it comes to controlling the visions that come with my seer abilities. It’s been an intense process, but I’m finally starting to feel like I’m harnessing my magic in a way that works for me.

I’ve also managed to climb into the top 10 students of my year! It’s been a lot of hard work, but I’m starting to see how far I’ve come. I couldn’t have done it without the support of those around me.

I’ll be home soon, and I’m looking forward to the break. I hope to visit you and your family when I return. I would love to catch up with you.

Thank you again for all your kindness and support.

Warm regards,
Petunia Veronica Shafiq Evans