As Void prepared for his journey to Hogwarts, his mind buzzed with questions and uncertainties. The recent events, his strange dreams, and the new memories from his past all weighed heavily on his mind. He wondered about Dumbledore's true intentions in this reality. Was he the same wise and benevolent figure as in the stories, or could he be hiding darker motives?
The thought of trusting the Weasleys or Hermione Granger also gave him pause. Were they truly his friends, or could they be pawns in a larger game? Void shook his head, trying to clear his thoughts. The idea that Petunia was not the same hostile figure he remembered from his old life puzzled him. Her unexpected kindness and help were a stark contrast to his previous experiences.
"Why am I Harry's cousin in this reality?" Void muttered to himself. "Is this some kind of butterfly effect? Because my mother was kind to Petunia, they became closer? And what's with these memories? Why are they broken? Why can't I remember my family's faces or names? Why can I remember the shows I watched but not my family?"
As he pondered these questions, Void couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to his situation than met the eye. He remembered the mention of a "bonus" from R.O.B, the mysterious entity that had brought him here. Perhaps the answers he sought lay in this supposed bonus.
Void stared at the screen in astonishment as it displayed his magical information. He had never seen such a detailed breakdown of magical abilities.
Void L. Potter - Status Screen
Name: Void L. Potter
Age: 11
Hogwarts House: To be determined
Year: First Year
Blood Status: Pure-blood (Leaning more towards pure-blood because of the ritual that cleansed his blood to save him and allow him to be more magically gifted)
Lineage:
By Blood and Magic:
The heir of Le Fay
The heir of Slytherin
The heir of Peverell
Possible heir of Potter
Possible heir of Black
Wand: Snakewood with Basilisk Core, additional unknown woods and core elements
Familiars:
Shadow (Black Snake)Sera (Red Bird)Yue (White Cat)Kuro (Black Owl)
Magical Abilities:
(The levels are from reading all the books and knowledge from his past life merging and from frequent explorations in Diagon Alley)
Spell Casting: Apprentice
Potion Making: Apprentice
Herbology: Apprentice
Transfiguration: Apprentice
Charms: Apprentice
Defence Against the Dark Arts: Apprentice
Parseltongue: Master
Occlumency: Novice
Legilimency: N/A
Magical Creatures Knowledge: Apprentice
Runes: Novice
Divination: N/A
History of Magic: Adept
Attributes:
Magic Power: Expert
Indicates a high capacity for magical energy. Void has a large reservoir of magic, enabling him to cast powerful spells and sustain magical activities over extended periods.
Magic Control: Adept
Represents the ability to precisely manage and direct magical energy. Void exhibits proficient skill in controlling his magic, resulting in efficient and effective spellcasting.
Physical Strength: Apprentice
Reflects overall physical fitness and muscular strength. Void has typical physical strength for a young wizard, adequate for everyday tasks but not exceptional.
Agility: Apprentice
Denotes physical speed, flexibility, and reflexes. Void moves with typical agility for his age, capable of handling basic physical activities and maneuvers.
Intelligence: Expert
Measures cognitive ability, problem-solving skills, and learning capacity. Void shows high intelligence quickly understands new concepts and excels in academic pursuits.
Wisdom: Expert
Indicates good judgment, insight, and the practical application of knowledge. Void shows strong wisdom, making sound decisions and effectively understanding complex situations.
Charisma: Expert
Reflects the ability to inspire, persuade, and connect with others. Void has a natural charm and presence, making him persuasive and likable in social settings.
Luck: Adept
Represents the likelihood of favourable outcomes in uncertain situations. Void has a higher-than-average degree of luck, often finding himself in beneficial circumstances.
Notable Skills:
Ambidextrous Spell Casting: Can cast spells with either hand with equal proficiency.
Eidetic Memory: Excellent memory recall, useful for remembering spells and potion recipes.
Strategic Mind: Ability to plan and strategize effectively.
Quick Learner: Learns new spells and magical theories quickly.
Magic Eyes: Possesses a unique ability to perceive magical auras and enchantments, making it easier to understand and analyze magical phenomena.
Natural Occlumens: Innate ability to protect the mind from external intrusion, providing strong mental defences against legilimency and other forms of magical influence.
Natural Druid: Exhibits a natural affinity for nature magic, making it easier to learn and perform spells related to flora, fauna, and the natural world.
Note: Skills have limits and are evolvable. As Void progresses and gains more experience, his skill levels and attributes can improve, reflecting his growth and development.
Power Levels Explanation:
Novice: Fundamental level with a basic understanding and initial skill. Capable of performing simple spells and tasks under guidance. Often seen in first-year students at Hogwarts.
Apprentice: Shows moderate proficiency with a growing understanding of magical theory and practical application. Can perform more complex tasks with some supervision.
Adept: Above average with a high level of independent performance and understanding. Capable of handling advanced spells and magical tasks with minimal guidance.
Expert: Demonstrates advanced capability and understanding. Can teach others and innovate within their magical studies. Often seen in students preparing for their O.W.L.s and N.E.W.T.s.
Master: Exceptional capacity with comprehensive knowledge and unmatched capability. Recognized as a master in their field, often becoming professors or specialists.
Grandmaster: Significantly above average with extraordinary skill and knowledge. Influential and highly respected in the magical community.
Legendary: Near-mythical prowess, capable of extraordinary feats thought impossible by most. Known for their extraordinary attributes and mastery.
Mythic: Almost unparalleled skill and power, displaying near-peak attributes and potential. Their abilities can significantly alter the course of history.
Transcendent: Beyond conventional understanding and limits. Represents the highest possible attributes and potential, with abilities on par with legendary figures or deities.
Void marvelled at the detailed information on his status screen. The clear breakdown of his abilities and attributes provided a better understanding of his potential and areas for improvement. With renewed determination, Void prepared himself for the challenges and adventures that awaited him at Hogwarts, ready to uncover the mysteries of his past and the secrets of his new reality.
In the Gringott healing room, Void lay on his bed, practising wandless magic. The calming silence was often interrupted by his mutterings as he tried to manipulate objects without a wand. He concentrated hard, and beads of sweat formed on his forehead as a small quill began to float, wobbling slightly in the air.
Every day at noon, Harry and Hagrid would visit him. Today was no different. As they entered, Harry's face lit up with a smile.
"Hey, Void! Look what Hagrid brought today!" Harry said, holding up a basket filled with assorted pastries.
"Ah, nothin' like a good feast to keep ye strong, Void," Hagrid added, his booming voice echoing in the room.
Void smiled warmly, sitting up to greet them. "Thanks, guys. It's always good to see you both."
They settled around the table, and as they ate, they chatted about various things. Harry excitedly talked about Diagon Alley and the magical creatures he had seen.
"And then, there was this transforming rabbit! Can you believe it? One moment it was a regular rabbit, and the next it turned into a bird and flew away!" Harry recounted, his eyes wide with excitement.
Void chuckled, intrigued. "That sounds amazing. What else did you see?"
Harry grinned, leaning forward. "There was also a Fire Crab. It had this hard shell with gems embedded in it, and it could shoot fire from its backside! It was incredible but a bit scary too."
Void chuckled. "Sounds amazing. I can't wait to see all of that for myself."
As the lunch hour ended, Harry's expression turned a bit sombre. "I wish you could come back with us already. It's not the same without you."
Void reached out and ruffled Harry's hair. "I'll be back soon, Harry. You just need to be patient a little longer."
The familiars, sensing Harry's unease, gathered around him. Sera perched on his shoulder, Yue rubbed against his leg, and Kuro hooted softly. Shadow, however, remained coiled beside Void.
~I will stay and protect Void,~
Shadow hissed softly, a determined glint in his eyes.
Harry nodded, understanding. "Alright, Shadow. Thanks for looking after him." said harry in English
Hagrid patted Void's shoulder. "Ye get well soon, lad. Hogwarts won't be the same without ye."
As they left, Void felt a pang of loneliness but quickly shook it off. He had work to do. Picking up his book on advanced magical theory, he resumed his reading, determined to make the most of his time and emerge stronger than ever.
As the days went on, it was the night before their departure. Void was back in the Leaky Cauldron with Harry. The healer had declared him fit, and Griphook had personally escorted him back. Void had insisted it wasn't necessary, but Griphook had merely shrugged it off, mentioning he had some things to take care of along the way.
Back in their room at the Leaky Cauldron, they found a delightful surprise waiting for them. Tom, the bartender and owner, had prepared a small feast to celebrate Void's recovery. The room was filled with the delicious aroma of various dishes, making their mouths water.
"Blimey, look at all this food!" Hagrid exclaimed, his eyes wide with excitement. "Tom outdid himself this time."
Harry grinned, nudging Void. "Looks like we're having a proper celebration tonight."
Void smiled, feeling a warm sense of belonging. "It's good to be back. Thanks for all the support, guys."
As they sat down to eat, Harry couldn't contain his excitement. "Tomorrow's the big day! We'll finally be on our way to Hogwarts."
Void nodded, sharing in Harry's enthusiasm. "Yeah, I can't wait to see what it's like. I've read so much about it."
"Ye both are gonna love it there," Hagrid said, his voice filled with pride. "Hogwarts is a special place."
They spent the evening chatting and laughing, the atmosphere filled with camaraderie and anticipation. As the night wore on, they finally decided to call it a day, eager for the adventures that awaited them.
"Sleep well, Void," Harry said, climbing into his bed. "Tomorrow's going to be amazing."
"You too, Harry," Void replied, settling into his bed. "Goodnight, Hagrid."
"Goodnight, lads," Hagrid rumbled, making his way out and back to the castle to report to the Headmaster.
As they drifted off to sleep, the room filled with a sense of excitement and wonder. Tomorrow, they would board the Hogwarts Express, and a new chapter of their lives would begin. Void thought of the intense training he did that he had to keep secret from harry and the others only ones to know are the goblin healer Griphook and maybe Ragnok as he is the director.
Back at Hogwarts,
Hagrid made his way to the Headmaster's office. The stone gargoyle guarding the entrance sprang aside at his approach, and Hagrid ascended the moving spiral staircase. He knocked on the heavy oak door and waited for the familiar voice.
"Come in, Hagrid," Dumbledore called from within.
Hagrid entered, his massive frame filling the doorway. Dumbledore looked up from his desk, his eyes twinkling behind his half-moon spectacles.
"Good evening, Hagrid. How are our young friends faring?"
Hagrid nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "Evenin', Professor. Void's made a full recovery, thanks to the healers at Gringotts. He and Harry are spendin' the night at the Leaky Cauldron. They'll be gettin' a cab to the train station tomorrow with Tom's help."
Dumbledore's eyes sparkled with satisfaction. "That is excellent news, Hagrid. And how is young Void adjusting?"
"Ah, he's been readin' all the time, Professor," Hagrid replied. "Can't seem to get enough of them books. He's a bright lad, that one."
Dumbledore nodded thoughtfully. "It's good to hear he's immersing himself in learning. We'll have to keep an eye on his progress."
Hagrid shifted slightly, looking a bit uncertain. "Do yeh think he'll be alright at Hogwarts, Professor? With everythin' that's happened?"
Dumbledore smiled gently. "I do not doubt that Void will find his place at Hogwarts, just as Harry will. Their journey is just beginning, and they have each other for support. Tomorrow will be the start of a wonderful adventure for them both."
Hagrid grinned, reassured by Dumbledore's confidence. "Aye, I reckon yer right, Professor."
"Thank you, Hagrid," Dumbledore said, his tone warm. "Your care and dedication are invaluable. Have a good night, and please give the boys my regards."
"Will do, Professor. Goodnight," Hagrid replied, turning to leave the office.
As Hagrid made his way back through the darkened corridors of the castle, he felt a sense of pride and anticipation for the days to come. Tomorrow, Harry and Void would board the Hogwarts Express, and a new chapter of their lives would begin.
Void L. Potter - Status Screen
Name: Void L. Potter
Age: 11
Hogwarts House: To be determined
Year: First Year
Blood Status: Pure-blood (Leaning more towards pure-blood because of the ritual that cleansed his blood to save him and allow him to be more magically gifted)
Lineage:
By Blood and Magic:
The heir of Le Fay
The heir of Slytherin
The heir of Peverell
Possible heir of Potter
Possible heir of Black
Wand: Snakewood with Basilisk Core, additional unknown woods and core elements
Familiars:
Shadow (Black Snake)Sera (Red Bird)Yue (White Cat)Kuro (Black Owl)
Magical Abilities:
(The levels are from reading all the books and knowledge from his past life merging and from frequent explorations in Diagon Alley)
Spell Casting: Adept
Potion Making: Adept
Herbology: Adept
Transfiguration: Adept
Charms: Adept
Defence Against the Dark Arts: Adept
Parseltongue: Master
Occlumency: Expert
Legilimency: Novice(does not practice yet because of the consequences if cought)
Magical Creatures Knowledge: Expert
Runes: Apprentice
Divination: N/A(No talent)
History of Magic: Expert
Attributes:
Attributes:
Magic Power: Expert
Indicates a high capacity for magical energy. Void has a large reservoir of magic, enabling him to cast powerful spells and sustain magical activities over extended periods.
Magic Control: Expert
It represents the ability to manage and direct magical energy precisely. Void exhibits proficient skill in controlling his magic, resulting in efficient and effective spellcasting.
Physical Strength: Adept
Reflects overall physical fitness and muscular strength. Void has developed physical strength, adequate for everyday tasks and some more strenuous activities.
Agility: Adept
Denotes physical speed, flexibility, and reflexes. Void moves with agility and coordination, capable of handling physical activities and maneuvers with ease.
Intelligence: Master
Measures cognitive ability, problem-solving skills, and learning capacity. Void demonstrates exceptional intelligence, quickly understanding new concepts and excelling in academic pursuits.
Wisdom: Master
Indicates good judgment, insight, and the practical application of knowledge. Void shows strong wisdom, making sound decisions and effectively understanding complex situations.
Charisma: Expert
Reflects the ability to inspire, persuade, and connect with others. Void has a natural charm and presence, making him persuasive and likable in social settings.
Luck: Adept
Represents the likelihood of favourable outcomes in uncertain situations. Void has a higher-than-average degree of luck, often finding himself in beneficial circumstances.
Notable Skills:
Ambidextrous Spell Casting: Can cast spells with either hand with equal proficiency.
Eidetic Memory: Excellent memory recall, useful for remembering spells and potion recipes.
Strategic Mind: Ability to plan and strategize effectively.
Quick Learner: Learns new spells and magical theories quickly.
Magic Eyes: Possesses a unique ability to perceive magical auras and enchantments, making it easier to understand and analyze magical phenomena.
Natural Occlumens: Innate ability to protect the mind from external intrusion, providing strong mental defences against Legilimency and other forms of magical influence.
Natural Druid: Exhibits a natural affinity for nature magic, making it easier to learn and perform spells related to flora, fauna, and the natural world.
Before his intensive training and recovery, Void L. Potter's magical abilities and attributes were more aligned with those of a typical young wizard with intermediate skills. His spell casting, potion making, herbology, and other core magical abilities were at an apprentice level, reflecting a solid but unremarkable foundation. His magic power and control were proficient but not extraordinary, and his physical attributes, such as strength and agility, were average. However, after months of rigorous training and diligent study, Void's abilities have dramatically improved. His spell casting, potion making, herbology, transfiguration, and defence against the dark arts have all advanced to adept levels, showcasing his high proficiency and independent performance. His magical power and control are now at an expert level, indicating his ability to cast powerful spells and manage magical energy with precision. His physical strength and agility have also improved to adept levels, enhancing his overall physical fitness and reflexes. Void's intelligence and wisdom have reached master levels, reflecting his exceptional cognitive abilities and sound judgment. His charisma has been honed to an expert level, making him more persuasive and likable.
Overall, Void's growth and development have transformed him into a highly capable and formidable young wizard, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.
With renewed determination, Void prepared himself for the challenges and adventures that awaited him at Hogwarts, ready to uncover the mysteries of his past and the secrets of his new reality.
As Void and Harry woke up and got ready for the day, they heard a knock on the door. Void answered and found Tom standing there with a friendly smile.
"The cab will be here soon. Are you boys ready?" Tom asked.
Void thanked Tom and assured him they were almost done. He and Harry quickly finished their preparations, making sure all their belongings were packed in their trunks. Void's familiars and Hedwig had their own travel arrangements. Hedwig, Kuro, and Sera would be flying to Hogwarts, while Shadow coiled comfortably in Void's pocket, occasionally wrapping around his neck without revealing himself. Yue stayed close to Harry, as they were allowed one pet each.
"Everything's set," Harry said, double-checking his trunk. "I can't believe today's the day!"
Void nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Yeah, it's finally happening. Let's make sure we don't forget anything."
As they gathered their trunks and pets, the anticipation grew. The thought of boarding the Hogwarts Express and beginning their magical journey filled them with a sense of wonder and eagerness. They took one last look around the room to ensure they hadn't left anything behind.
"Ready?" Void asked, turning to Harry.
"Ready," Harry replied, a wide grin spreading across his face.
Together, they stepped out of the room, trunks in tow, and headed downstairs to meet Tom and the waiting cab, ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime.
As they made their way down, Tom handed them some boxed breakfast and lunch, enough to feed ten people for both meals. He placed the food in Void's trunk, adding a few treats for their pets as well.
"Just in case you get hungry along the way," Tom said with a wink.
Void and Harry thanked him, and Tom led them out to the waiting cab. Harry was visibly excited and nervous, fidgeting in his seat as the cab made its way to King's Cross Station. It was relatively early, only 9 AM, and the train wouldn't depart until 11 AM. This gave them plenty of time, but the anticipation was almost unbearable.
Void, however, was nervous for different reasons. Today, he would finally be able to interact with others and discover what type of world he had been thrust into. His mind raced with questions. Was this a world where Dumbledore was malevolent, pulling strings from the shadows for his own ends? Would he use potions to manipulate people, ensuring Harry ended up with Ginny and misappropriating the Potter family fortune? Or was Dumbledore as he appeared in the movies, a kindly but somewhat flawed guardian doing his best to help Harry survive?
Void looked at Harry, who was practically bouncing in his seat. "Excited?" Void asked with a smile.
Harry nodded vigorously. "Yeah! I can't wait to see Hogwarts and meet everyone. It's going to be amazing!"
Void nodded, trying to keep his own worries at bay. "It will be," he agreed, though his thoughts were elsewhere.
As the cab continued its journey, Void's familiars remained close. Shadow was hidden in his pocket, occasionally coiling around his neck for comfort. Sera, Kuro, and Hedwig were flying ahead, making their way to Hogwarts on their own. Yue sat calmly with Harry, purring softly.
The cab arrived at King's Cross Station earlier than expected, giving them ample time to find Platform 9¾. The station was bustling with activity, but they managed to navigate through the crowd with ease. Void's heart pounded as they approached the barrier between Platforms 9 and 10.
"Ready?" Void asked Harry, trying to steady his nerves.
"Ready," Harry replied, his excitement undiminished.
They took a deep breath and, together, walked towards the barrier. With a slight twinge of apprehension, Void closed his eyes for a moment before stepping through, wondering what kind of world awaited them on the other side.
As Void and Harry stepped through the barrier, they emerged onto Platform 9¾, an enchanting sight that never failed to amaze. The platform was a bustling mix of magical and mundane, with wrought iron and brick archways, billowing steam, and the sound of chattering students. The Hogwarts Express stood majestically on the tracks, a gleaming scarlet steam engine with its carriages stretching far into the distance. Its golden lettering and polished exterior exuded an air of timeless charm and excitement.
Despite the early hour of 9:30 AM, the platform was already lively, though not overly crowded. A fair number of older students were scattered about, hugging their parents and saying their goodbyes. The air was filled with a mix of excitement and bittersweet farewells, as the older students prepared to return to their second home.
Void and Harry made their way towards the train, weaving through clusters of families and friends. They found an empty compartment near the end of the train and stowed their trunks in the luggage rack above their seats. Once their belongings were secured, they settled in for the journey.
Void took a deep breath, feeling a mix of anticipation and apprehension. He pulled out a book titled "Wizarding Society and Notable Figures" from his bag, hoping to glean some insight into the world he was now a part of. The book promised to provide information on various influential families, historical events, and key players in the magical community.
Harry, meanwhile, was engrossed in playing with Yue. The white cat purred contentedly as Harry gently scratched behind its ears and dangled a piece of string for it to chase. The sight of his friend's unbridled joy brought a smile to Void's face, easing some of his worries.
The compartment was quiet, save for the occasional sound of footsteps and muffled voices from the platform. Void glanced out the window, watching as more students arrived, the platform gradually becoming busier. Older students greeted each other with enthusiastic waves and shouts, while younger students, accompanied by their parents, looked around wide-eyed at the magical scene.
Void turned his attention back to his book, absorbing the information about the magical world. He read about the intricacies of wizarding society, the importance of blood status, and the prominent families that shaped the history of the magical community. The names of notable figures like Albus Dumbledore, Gellert Grindelwald, and the founders of Hogwarts stood out, each with their own fascinating stories and legacies.
Harry's laughter drew Void's attention, and he looked up to see his friend and Yue playing a game of hide-and-seek with the string. The sight warmed his heart, reminding him of the simple joys that could be found even amidst the complexities of his new life.
As the minutes ticked by, the platform grew increasingly crowded with students of all ages, accompanied by parents and siblings. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement and chatter as friends reunited and shared stories of their summer adventures.
Void glanced at the clock on the wall, noting that they still had plenty of time before the train's departure at 11 AM. He felt a sense of calm settle over him, knowing that they were well-prepared and had arrived early enough to avoid the last-minute rush.
As he continued to read, Void's thoughts wandered to the journey ahead and the mysteries he hoped to unravel at Hogwarts. With Harry by his side and a world of magic to explore, Void felt a renewed sense of determination and curiosity. He was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead and discover the true nature of the world he now called home.
As the time passed, a knock was heard from the compartment door. A girl with dark brown hair and eyes stood there, looking a bit nervous. "Hi, do you mind if my friend and I share this compartment with you? It's getting quite packed out there."
Void looked up from his book and smiled. "Of course, come on in." He introduced himself and Harry.
The girl visibly froze, her eyes widening in shock and awe as she stepped inside. "You're Harry Potter," she said breathlessly, staring at his forehead. "Is it true you have a scar? And that you defeated He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named?"
Before Harry could respond, another girl stepped into the compartment and lightly smacked her friend on the arm. "Tracey, give it a rest," she said with a hint of exasperation.
Void's eyes lit up with recognition and delight. "Daphne! It's good to see you again," he said, laughing.
Daphne Greengrass, her blond hair and deep blue eyes striking against the background of the compartment, gave a cool nod. "Nice to see you too, Void," she replied. "This is my friend, Tracey Davis."
Tracey blushed, looking embarrassed at her earlier behavior. "Sorry about that," she mumbled.
"It's alright," Harry said, giving her a friendly smile. "It's nice to meet you both."
As they settled into the compartment, Tracey took a seat next to Harry, still stealing occasional glances at his scar. Daphne sat across from Void, maintaining a composed and distant demeanour. Void couldn't resist teasing her about the difference in her attitude compared to their last encounter in Gringotts.
"So, Daphne," Void said with a grin, "what with this icy persona you have now?"
Daphne's eyes narrowed slightly, her expression remaining frosty. " It's important to maintain a certain image."
Void chuckled. "Is that so? I think I prefer seeing a bit more warmth."
Daphne's eyes flashed with amusement for a brief moment before her cool mask returned. "Don't get too used to it. The Ice Queen is here to stay while in a public setting"
Their banter continued, lightening the atmosphere in the compartment despite Daphne's reserved demeanor. Harry, meanwhile, was engrossed in conversation with Tracey, who had finally relaxed and was sharing stories about her summer.
Void felt a mix of familiarity and new tension as he interacted with Daphne. The contrast between her cold exterior and the warmth he knew she could show was intriguing. As the train began to fill up with more students, the compartment remained a little haven of friendly conversation and curiosity.
Harry's laughter mixed with Tracey's giggles, and the sound of the train's whistle echoed through the platform. The excitement of the upcoming journey to Hogwarts was palpable, and Void's earlier apprehensions began to fade. Surrounded by friends, old and new, he felt ready to face whatever awaited them at the magical school.
Soon it was 11 AM, and an announcement was made. The train whistled loudly, and the platform erupted with the loud clamor of students hurrying on and saying goodbye to their loved ones. Void couldn't help but ask, "Aren't you going to say goodbye to your families on the platform?"
He moved away from the window to give them space. Tracey was grateful and quickly spotted her family, waving and shouting goodbyes through the window. Daphne, however, remained seated, her demeanor as composed as ever. "I've already said my goodbyes," she said, giving a brief wave to her family from her seat.
Tracey turned to Void and Harry, concern evident in her eyes. "Do you need to say goodbye too?" she asked.
Harry's expression turned visibly sad, and Void stepped in to explain. "We're orphans," he said gently. "There's no one here to say goodbye to."
Tracey's face fell, realizing she had forgotten about their situation. "Oh, I'm so sorry," she said quickly.
Void gave her a reassuring smile. "It's okay, really. Don't worry about it."
As they were talking, the train started to move, slowly pulling away from the platform. The scenery outside the window began to blur as the Hogwarts Express picked up speed, carrying them towards their new adventure. Harry, trying to shake off his melancholy, returned to playing with Yue, while Tracey and Daphne settled into their seats.
Void resumed his reading, but his thoughts wandered. The excitement of the journey ahead mingled with the uncertainties of what awaited them at Hogwarts. As the train chugged along, the compartment filled with a sense of anticipation, and Void couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope amidst the nervousness.
As the train chugged along, the compartment filled with a sense of anticipation, and Void couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope amidst the nervousness. The landscape outside began to change from the bustling city to the serene countryside, and the rhythmic sound of the train's wheels on the tracks provided a soothing background to their conversations.
Suddenly, the compartment door slid open, and a red-haired boy stood there, scanning the room. His eyes landed on Harry, specifically on his forehead. "Do you mind if I join you? Everywhere else is full," he asked, already stepping inside without waiting for an answer.
Void looked at Harry, who simply shrugged. "Sure, it's fine with us," Void said, but before he could finish, the boy had already plopped down beside Harry.
Void noticed Daphne and Tracey frowning. He cleared his throat and added, "Even though Harry and I are okay with it, you still need to ask the two lovely ladies in the compartment if it's alright with them."
The boy frowned and looked at the girls, who just glared at him. Meekly, he asked, "Is it okay if I sit here?"
Daphne and Tracey shrugged and went back to looking out the window. An awkward silence settled over the compartment. Void decided to break the ice. "I'm Void L. Potter, and this is my cousin, Harry. And you are?"
The boy's eyes widened as he realized who he was sitting with"Wow, you're Harry Potter! I mean, I've heard so much about you."
Void continued, "These are our friends, Daphne Greengrass and Tracey Davis."
Ron nodded to the girls but quickly turned back to Harry, his excitement barely contained. "So Do you know what house you'll be in? Gryffindor's the best, you know. Dumbledore was in Gryffindor! And Slytherin—ugh, it's full of evil people and slimy snakes."
Harry seemed overwhelmed by the barrage of questions, looking a bit lost. Void, noticing Harry's discomfort, had a thought. Why is Ron here? In the original timeline, he and Harry had their own compartment. Could this be Dumbledore's influence, trying to steer Harry towards Gryffindor?
Void shook his head slightly to clear his thoughts and focused on the present. "Ron," he said firmly, "it's quite ill-mannered to bombard someone with questions without even properly introducing yourself first."
Ron looked a bit chastised but managed a sheepish smile. "Right, sorry about that. I'm Ron Weasley. Nice to meet you all."
The conversation flowed a bit more smoothly after that. Harry shared his love for flying, which intrigued Ron, who mentioned his family's old broomstick. Void talked about his interest in magical creatures, while Daphne and Tracey added their own hobbies and interests mainly to what Void or Harry would say as the girls did not like Ron saying the house they most likely would end up in was evil.
As the conversation continued, Ron reached into his pocket and pulled out a small, scruffy-looking rat. "This is Scabbers," he said proudly. "He's been in my family for ages."
At the sight of the rat, Yue's fur stood on end, and the white cat hissed, her eyes fixed on the rodent. Scabbers cowered, clearly frightened. Daphne and Tracey both wrinkled their noses in disgust.
Void, noticing the tension, moved to create a buffer. "Daphne, why don't you sit by the window next to Harry?" he suggested. Daphne quickly agreed, and Void made sure there was a barrier between the girls and the rat.
"Ron, maybe it's best if you put Scabbers in a cage for his safety. Yue doesn't seem to like him very much," Void advised, watching as Yue continued to hiss at the rat.
Ron looked a bit embarrassed. "I don't have a cage," he admitted.
Void sighed and retrieved a small cage from his trunk. "Here, you can use this. It was meant for Kuro, but I don't need it right now."
Ron gratefully accepted the cage and placed Scabbers inside. As the rat settled down, Ron's confidence seemed to return. "You know, I can do a bit of magic," he said, trying to impress the group. "I can turn Scabbers yellow."
Daphne and Tracey, intrigued by the mention of a Transfiguration spell, leaned in slightly. "Really? Let's see," Daphne said, her interest piqued.
Just as Ron was about to perform the spell, the compartment door slid open again. A bushy-haired girl stood there, looking a bit flustered. "Have any of you seen a toad? A boy named Neville's lost one," she asked, scanning the room. Her eyes fell on Ron, who had his wand out, ready to perform magic. "Are you about to do magic? Well, go on then."
Ron, caught off guard, stammered, "Er, yeah. I was just about to."
The girl crossed her arms, clearly expecting to see something impressive. Ron took a deep breath, pointed his wand at Scabbers, and muttered, "Sunshine, daisies, butter mellow, turn this stupid fat rat yellow."
Nothing happened. Scabbers remained his usual dull brown colour. Ron's ears turned red with embarrassment.
The girl huffed, "That's not a proper spell. You should really learn from the books. I'm Hermione Granger, by the way. Who are you?"
Void decided to introduce everyone. "I'm Void L. Potter, and this is my cousin, Harry. That's Ron Weasley, and these are our friends, Daphne Greengrass and Tracey Davis."
Hermione's eyes widened slightly. "Harry Potter? I've read about you! You're in 'Modern Magical History,' 'The Rise and Fall of the Dark Arts,' and 'Great Wizarding Events of the Twentieth Century.'"
Harry looked a bit overwhelmed but managed a polite smile. "Nice to meet you, Hermione."
Hermione nodded, her curiosity satisfied for the moment. "Well, if you see Neville's toad, let me know. And you should be careful with magic; it's not something to be taken lightly." With that, she turned and left the compartment.
As the door closed, Ron let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding. "She's a bit much, isn't she?"
Void chuckled. "She seems very knowledgeable. Maybe she could teach us a thing or two."
Void smirked. "Well, Ron, you tried. But maybe leave the colour-changing spells for later."
Tracey nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we don't want to scare Scabbers any more than he already is."
Ron grinned sheepishly, clearly relieved that the group wasn't holding his failed spell against him. The atmosphere in the compartment lightened, and they continued their journey, the excitement of reaching Hogwarts growing with each passing mile.
After a while, Void suddenly slapped his forehead as if remembering something important. "I'll be back in a bit," he said, standing up and leaving the compartment.
Harry and the others watched him curiously as he stepped out. Void made his way through the train, searching for Hermione and some older students, preferably Fred and George, to ask for help. As he walked through the compartments, he finally spotted the twins in a compartment, and to his surprise, they were with Neville and Hermione.
Void entered the compartment with a friendly smile. "Hi, I'm Void L. Potter," he introduced himself, "and you must be Neville. I heard you lost your toad. I think I know how to find it."
Neville's face lit up with relief and joy. "Really? Thank you so much!" he said, hugging Void unexpectedly.
Void patted Neville's back, a bit taken aback but smiling. "It's okay, Neville. We'll find your toad."
Hermione looked intrigued and asked, "How are you going to find the toad?"
Void grinned and pointed at Fred and George, who were sitting across from them. The twins exchanged confused glances before pointing at themselves, mirroring Void's gesture.
Void laughed at their antics. "The Accio charm," he said simply.
Fred and George simultaneously slapped their foreheads, then burst into laughter. "That's brilliant!" Fred exclaimed.
"Why didn't we think of that?" George added, shaking his head in amusement.
Fred stood up and pulled out his wand. "Accio Trevor!" he said with a confident wave.
Within moments, Neville's toad, Trevor, came zooming into the compartment, landing safely in Neville's hands. Neville beamed with happiness. "Thank you so much!" he exclaimed, hugging Trevor tightly.
Hermione looked impressed. "That was really clever, Void," she admitted, a hint of admiration in her voice.
Void shrugged modestly. "Just something I remembered. Glad it worked out."
George grinned. "We usually use that spell to fetch our things when we're pulling pranks or need something from home. Never thought of using it to find a lost pet."
Fred nodded in agreement. "Yeah, thanks for reminding us how useful it can be."
Void smiled at the twins. "No problem. Always happy to help."
Neville, still holding Trevor, looked at Void with gratitude. "Thanks again, Void. I was really worried about Trevor."
Void patted Neville's shoulder. "Anytime, Neville. I'm just glad we found him."
As Void prepared to leave, Hermione spoke up. "Do you want to stay and chat for a bit? You seem to know a lot about magic."
Void considered it for a moment but then shook his head. "Thanks, Hermione, but I should get back to my compartment. Harry and the others are waiting for me."
Fred and George gave Void a thumbs-up. "Catch you later, Void!"
As Void was about to leave the compartment, he turned to Neville and said, "If you don't want Trevor to run off again, you might want to ask Hagrid to help you build an aquarium for him. I know Hagrid, and I'll ask him with you when we get to Hogwarts."
Neville's eyes lit up with gratitude. "Thanks, Void. That would be great!"
Void gave Neville a reassuring nod and then headed back to his own compartment. As he approached, he heard Ron talking to Harry. Entering, Void explained, "I remembered a way to find the toad. Fred and George helped out."
He then turned to Ron and asked, "Do you know the twins? Why didn't you just sit with them?"
Ron looked slightly annoyed. "They're my brothers, but they always prank me, so I avoid sitting with them."
Harry's eyes widened with realization. "You're related to Fred and George?"
Ron nodded. "Yeah, they're my older brothers."
With that cleared up, they all settled back into their seats, chatting and enjoying the rest of the journey. The atmosphere in the compartment was friendly, with Harry and Ron sharing stories and laughing.
As the announcement came over the speakers, informing them that they would soon be arriving at Hogsmeade Station, Void stood up. "Harry, Ron, let's give the ladies some privacy to change into their robes," he said, gesturing for them to step out of the compartment. He turned to Daphne and Tracey and added, "You can put up a privacy curtain and ward if you'd like."
Daphne and Tracey nodded appreciatively as Void, Harry, and Ron left the compartment. They waited in the corridor, making small talk. After a few minutes, the door opened, and Daphne and Tracey emerged, now dressed in their Hogwarts robes.
"You can change now," Daphne said
The boys quickly entered the compartment and began changing into their robes. Ron glanced at Harry and Void's new, clean robes with a hint of envy, his robes worn and handed down from his older brothers. Void noticed the look and remembered a similar expression from Harry during their childhood. He made a mental note to do something about it if Ron turned out to be a decent friend and did not like his portrayal in the movies.
Once they were all changed, they opened the door to let the girls back in. Soon enough, the train began to slow down, and the excitement in the compartment grew as they approached Hogsmeade Station.
As the train came to a stop, the students gathered their belongings and prepared to disembark. The platform was bustling with activity as they stepped off the train, the cool air filled with the sounds of excited chatter and the sight of the towering castle in the distance.
Void felt a mix of nerves and excitement as he looked around. This was it—the beginning of their journey at Hogwarts. With Harry, Ron, Daphne, and Tracey by his side, he felt ready to face whatever adventures lay ahead.
4o