For once, the Ministry of Magic had been unusually efficient. The permits were issued faster than expected.
As late May approached, the Ministry had Owls deliver letters to every student who had passed the Apparition exam.
Rather absurdly, the official-looking letters contained nothing but a small card when opened, somewhat like a business card from Albert's previous life.
Albert inspected it carefully and found no trace of magic on the little card. It was an entirely ordinary card, without even any anti-counterfeiting measures.
It was the Ministry of Magic, after all. Going through the motions was hardly surprising.
Albert stopped paying attention to it and put the card away. Still, in case the Ministry had tampered with it, he cast a powerful Shielding Charm on it before tossing it into a special box and locking it up. Even if the Ministry wanted to use the card to track his location, it would be impossible.
Albert had done similar things himself, so naturally he judged others by his own standards and took precautions. That was the advantage of experience.
He soon put the matter aside and continued studying ways to improve his strength. That was what he needed to prioritize.
Over the past month, Albert had devoted more effort to seeking Professor McGonagall's guidance in Transfiguration, hoping to better improve his strength.
Professor McGonagall's use of Transfiguration had opened Albert's eyes and given him considerable inspiration.
Unfortunately, he had never triggered a new task, making it difficult for Albert to gain the greatest possible benefit from Professor McGonagall's lessons. All he could do was diversify his combat methods.
Albert dearly missed the days when he had studied under Professor Flitwick. The sensation of advancing rapidly in every respect was truly intoxicating. He had once hoped that Professor McGonagall could bring him