"Early graduation isn't a problem," Dumbledore said calmly. "I'll write you a recommendation as well. Whether the Ministry accepts you is another matter. Your ability is unquestionable, but your age will be an obstacle."
Rowan took that in without reaction.
Dumbledore hadn't been surprised by the request. Keeping Rowan at Hogwarts any longer would only slow him down. Still, there was a part of him that felt this was too early. School was meant to be safe. Leaving it behind at twelve was not a gentle path.
What did surprise him was Rowan's destination.
The Ministry of Magic rarely recruited anyone straight out of school, let alone someone who hadn't sat their standard qualifications. Rowan was exceptional, perhaps the most gifted student Hogwarts had ever produced, but exceptions still required paperwork.
Rowan thought for a moment, then said, "The N.E.W.T. examinations should be starting soon. Could I be added?"
Dumbledore raised his brows slightly.
The N.E.W.T.s were the final and most demanding assessments Hogwarts offered. Results determined careers. The Ministry, at minimum, required strong passes in five subjects just to consider an applicant.
"If I take them and score well," Rowan continued, "there won't be any objections on paper."
Dumbledore smiled.
"A sensible approach. With your level, your chances would improve significantly."
Making the exception wasn't difficult for a headmaster. More importantly, Dumbledore trusted the outcome.
They spoke a little longer about logistics. When Rowan left the office, his mind was already elsewhere.
Black.
Sirius Black had been at large for nearly a year. The Ministry had failed repeatedly, and Cornelius Fudge was under growing pressure. If Rowan were the one to capture Black and hand him over, it would earn more than goodwill. It would buy influence.
Clearing Black's name was also possible. As long as Pettigrew didn't escape, the truth would surface eventually.
But that could wait.
The exams came first.
Late that night, Rowan slipped from the castle under concealment. Once beyond Hogwarts' wards, he vanished.
He reappeared on a quiet London street, standing before a modest townhouse.
He rang the bell.
After a moment, the door opened. A woman with tired eyes and loosened hair peered out.
"…Who is it?"
"Good evening, Professor Amy," Rowan said with a small smile.
Recognition hit instantly.
"Rowan? You're taller," she said, pulling him into a quick embrace. "Nearly caught up to me."
A second presence appeared behind her. An arm draped lazily around Amy's waist, followed by a familiar face.
"And what about me?" Lina said dryly. "Still impressed?"
"Good evening," Rowan replied. "I figured you'd be here."
Amy laughed and ushered him inside before the mood could shift further.
They sat. Tea was poured.
"I'll be applying for early graduation," Rowan said, getting straight to the point. "After that, I plan to enter the Ministry. I'll need help smoothing the way."
Amy nearly choked.
"Graduate? Rowan, you're a second-year."
"I've finished the curriculum," he said evenly. "Dumbledore approved it. I'll be taking the N.E.W.T.s as well."
Amy and Lina exchanged a look, then laughed in disbelief.
"Of course," Lina said. "It had to be you."
Amy shook her head, smiling. "I'll help. No promises, but I'll do what I can."
That was enough.