Draco's POV
Being someone who had survived COVID thanks to his smartphone, it was unbearable to be without one after my transmigration.
And now, that same thirst seems to have returned in this world, The Sorcerer's Apprentice.
I checked the year: 2010. Looks like the card sent me close to the plot, though I don't know exactly how close.
I remember the important figures' names: Balthazar, Dave, Maxim, and the rest.
To figure out how far the story has progressed, I just need to find one of them. The best option is Drake, since he was famous for his magic shows. If I can confirm whether he's already met Maxim, I can keep tabs on him and gauge the timeline.
Honestly, I wanted to mark this world the same way I did with Game of Thrones and come here daily, like a second home. But since the time progression in each world runs parallel, it leaves me with less time to spend in each one. Still, it's worth it.
I only wish it could work like when I use the travelling card, where ten days here would equal just one day in the Wizarding World. But sadly, that's only temporary.
And it's not like I even have a slot to mark this world anyway.
Sigh.
But since I'm here, I'm not going to waste this opportunity.
Boom!
I was about to do some looting, but it seems the plan has to be postponed. I think I know what point in time I've landed.
Balthazar and Dave, I recognised them instantly as they stumbled out of the car that had just been crushed by a garbage truck.
Interesting. Balthazar glanced at me for a moment before darting to the other side.
He must have sensed my mana.
A thousand-year-old wizard isn't just a title.
In many ways, he's more dangerous than Maxim, like how Dumbledore was compared to Voldemort.
Let's see how good the new Merlin really is.
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3rd Person POV
Draco crossed the road, his eyes fixed on Dave and Balthazar. While Dave remained oblivious to his presence, Balthazar immediately noticed him.
Seeing the sudden change in his teacher's expression, Dave quickly turned and asked in a low voice, "Is something wrong with him?"
Balthazar replied without hesitation, "He's a wizard, like us."
"Is he…?" Dave's face twisted, unease flashing across his features. Every wizard he had met until now, except for Balthazar, had tried to kill him.
"Don't worry," Balthazar said calmly, reading his student's expression instantly. "He doesn't seem to be with Horvath. Looks like he was drawn here by our actions."
At that moment, Draco stepped forward, ignoring Dave entirely. His eyes locked on Balthazar.
"You're right," he said evenly. "And if I'm not mistaken… you are Balthazar."
"I am," Balthazar replied, studying him carefully. "And you are?"
"Draco Malfoy. British wizard. Student." Draco spoke smoothly, his tone confident. "I was on vacation, but you seem to be having far more fun, so I decided to join in."
Balthazar gave a small nod, the pieces falling into place. "No wonder I didn't recognise you. You're not local."
Dave, who had been watching the exchange with wide eyes, finally blurted out, "Student? Wait, you mean you actually go to school? Balthazar, are there schools for wizards?"
"Of course there are," Balthazar replied without hesitation. "Not everyone is trained one-on-one, like you. Most are recruited by wizarding schools."
"Then why didn't I get in?" Dave demanded, frustration bubbling up. "When I was a kid and told people what happened to me, they all said I was delusional. No one believed me!"
Draco tilted his head slightly, intrigued. Half-truths lingered on his tongue. He had thought about saying he was house mentored but now he was more curious about this world's structure. The fact that wizard schools existed here too wasn't surprising; logically, it made sense.
Balthazar's expression darkened, his tone turning grave.
"The situation in America isn't what you think. The Magical Association here is unstable. About thirty years ago, they clashed with the Church. The conflict escalated so badly that every wizarding school in America was forced to close. Since then, any wizard born here with magical lineage is taught privately, if they're taught at all."
Dave's anger melted into surprise. His voice was quieter now.
"Is it really that serious?"
Balthazar gave a single, weary nod. "Yes. That's also why we need to capture Horvath quickly, before matters spiral out of control. If we don't, too many factions will get involved, especially the Church."
Hearing this, Draco frowned. He tried to recall if something like that had ever been mentioned in the movie, but nothing came to mind. Is this an AU, or maybe the movie just never went into detail?
"Let's go. We need to leave," Balthazar's words pulled him out of his thoughts.
"Yes," Dave agreed quickly.
Just as they were about to turn away, Draco asked, "Can I join you?"
"Why?" Balthazar didn't refuse, but his sharp eyes lingered, waiting for an answer.
"Well, it's not every day you meet a legend. I can't waste the chance to learn something from you. Besides, I think you'll need help," Draco replied honestly. He wasn't sure if some kind of lie-detection spell might be in play.
Balthazar studied his eyes, finding no trace of hesitation. Draco didn't look away.
Finally, Balthazar said, "You can come." Then he turned to Dave. "He's braver than you."
"You're underestimating me, Balthazar, and he's too young," Dave immediately retorted.
"Yes, but he's more experienced than you. And if Horvath succeeds, you won't even have the chance to save your own life," the eldest of the group replied as they continued walking.
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Frieren rank in dxd