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Chapter 5 (First Day in Hogwarts), Chapter 6 (Force and Feathers), Chapter 7 (Force Illumination), Chapter 8 (Shadows of the Sith), and Chapter 9 (The Voice That Silenced The Fear) are already available for Patrons.
Albus Dumbledore sat behind his desk, peering over his half-moon spectacles at a parchment filled with his latest musings on the state of affairs in the wizarding world. His office, cluttered with magical trinkets and books piled precariously on shelves, hummed with an air of quiet contemplation. The room smelled faintly of aged parchment and lemon drops—Dumbledore's favorite sweet.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. He looked up and adjusted his glasses. "Come in," he called, his voice warm.
The door creaked open, and Professor Minerva McGonagall stepped in, her sharp eyes focusing on Dumbledore. Her robes swished softly as she walked, closing the door behind her. She seemed as strict as ever, but there was a hint of concern in the lines on her face.
"You wanted to see me, Albus?" she asked, her tone even betraying her mind's preoccupied.
Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, nodding. "Yes, Minerva. I wanted to hear about young Harry Potter and how he fared during his introduction to our world. I know it's quite a lot anyone so young, especially for a boy like him. You accompanied him to Diagon Alley, did you not?"
Minerva sighed softly and took a seat in front of the desk. "Yes, I did. It was... enlightening, to say the least." She paused, collecting her thoughts. "Albus, I have concerns."
Dumbledore's expression shifted from one of polite interest to genuine curiosity. "Concerns, you say? What sort of concerns?"
Minerva hesitated, her eyes drifting to the window where the late afternoon light filtered through. "He was quiet for most of our time together," she began, choosing her words carefully. "I expected some reticence, naturally—he's been living in isolation from our world for eleven years. But it was more than that."
She placed her hands in her lap, fingers interlaced. "He seemed a little wary of me. I can't quite place it, but he seemed like he didn't trust me. I know he just met me, but I was hoping for him to be more...more like Lily." She said the words with difficulty. But he is not like her. Mister Potter often looked at me as if he expected me to do something bad to him."
Dumbledore remained silent. His hands, resting on the armrests of his chair, tensed slightly. "Go on, Minerva."
"There were moments," Minerva continued, her voice dropping almost to a whisper, "when he seemed to be... talking to himself. I thought at first he was just mumbling under his breath, perhaps speaking his thoughts aloud, but there was something about it, Albus. It was as though he was holding a conversation—asking questions, listening to responses. It unsettled me."
Dumbledore's eyes narrowed, his face growing more serious. He leaned forward, fingers steepled under his chin. "Did he say anything in particular that struck you as odd?"
Minerva shook her head, frowning. "Not directly. He asked normal questions for the most part—about how magic works, what kinds of books he would need for Hogwarts, whether broomsticks really fly. But every now and then, he would trail off, as if listening to something I couldn't hear, and then he'd answer. I asked him once if he was all right, and he gave me a look— an intense look, Albus—that it gave me pause."
Silence settled over the room. Dumbledore's gaze became distant as he processed Minerva's account. "And how did he respond to the attention in Diagon Alley?" he asked after a moment.
"He was uncomfortable," Minerva replied promptly. "People kept pointing and whispering. I tried to shield him from it as much as possible, but Mister Potter...he knew people were looking at him, and he didn't seem to like the attention, he seemed annoyed more than anything."
Dumbledore sighed, his expression turning grim. "Not the reaction one would expect from a boy learning he is famous in a world he never knew existed."
"Exactly," Minerva agreed, worry lacing her tone. "I don't know what the Dursleys have done to him, Albus, but it's clear he hasn't had an easy life. That much I expected. But this—it's troubling."
Dumbledore tapped his fingers lightly on the desk, his eyes glinting with a mix of sadness and contemplation. "You say he talks to himself. Often?"
Minerva nodded. "Yes. Enough to be noticeable. At Gringotts, when the goblins spoke to him, I thought he muttered something to himself before responding. And each time, it seemed as though he was speaking to someone else, someone I couldn't see."
Dumbledore closed his eyes briefly, sighing deeply. When he reopened them, they were troubled. "That he is withdrawn does not surprise me, but this..." His voice trailed off as he glanced at Fawkes, the phoenix perched quietly in the corner, who ruffled his feathers at Dumbledore's gaze.
"Then what should we do? How do we help him?"
"We must keep a watchful eye on him," Dumbledore replied, his voice regaining its calm, measured tone. "He will need time, and he will need our help. At Hogwarts, he will have many opportunities to speak with different people and make many friends. I shall speak with Severus, as well as the other professors, to ensure they are all vigilant for any odd beheaviur."
Minerva nodded, some of the tension leaving her shoulders. "Very well, Albus. I shall do my best to be there for him. But I must say, he is not the boy I expected. There's a quiet strength about him, but also a sadness that no child should carry."
Dumbledore watched Minerva carefully, noting the concern etched on her face. Wanting to lighten the mood, he offered a gentle smile. "Well, was there anything during your excursion that brought him joy? Any moments where he seemed more happy?"
Minerva's expression softened slightly. "Actually, yes," she admitted. "When we visited Flourish and Blotts to pick up his school books, I noticed a change in him. His eyes lit up the moment we stepped inside. Surrounded by all those books, he seemed... alive."
Dumbledore's eyebrows lifted with interest. "Ah, books. It's rare, but some children love to read books." Especially lonely children, Dumbledore wanted to add but held that part to himself.
"He was fascinated," Minerva continued, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "He looked at all of them, reading the titles. At one point, he asked if he could purchase more books than the required list. He wanted to know more about magical theory, history, even subjects not taught until the upper years."
Dumbledore chuckled softly. "That's a relief, wanting to read more at such a young age. Children like that are quite rare. They say they grow faster than the others." For a moment, his mind went to someone else who loved reading books, but she was long gone.
"I agree," Minerva said, her tone lighter now. "And first-year students are always sorted on the first day here, we might just see him sorted into Ravenclaw." She allowed herself a rare, playful smile. "The son of James and Lily Potter, both proud Gryffindors, ending up in Ravenclaw. It would certainly be a surprise."
Dumbledore's eyes twinkled with amusement. "That will be something I wouldn't expect to see. But I have no doubts that the Sorting Hat will do it's job as it always had, and sort him into the right house for him."
"Indeed," Minerva agreed. "But then again, his parents wore red, and Mister Potter might have bravery deep inside him that he doesn't know about. Gryffindor might still be the place for him. Time will tell."
"Time will tell," Dumbledore leaned back in his chair, fingers tapping together lightly. "Books can be wonderful companions, especially for those who feel alone."
Minerva nodded with a sad smile. "I Told him the library at Hogwarts is extensive and that he'd have access to more knowledge than he could imagine. That seemed to please him."
"Excellent," Dumbledore said warmly. "Perhaps I shall have a word with Madam Pince to ensure he has all the support he needs in the library."
A comfortable silence settled between them for a moment. The golden light from the window bathed the room in a serene glow, and Fawkes let out a soft, melodious trill from his perch.
"Albus," Minerva began thoughtfully, "do you think it's wise to let the Sorting Hat decide his house without guidance? Given everything..."
Dumbledore gave her a knowing look. "You mean, should we influence his placement?"
"Not overtly, of course," she clarified quickly. "But perhaps a gentle nudge towards where he might thrive best."
He considered her words carefully: "The Sorting Hat is made by Godric Gryffindor; it cannot be influenced. Even I can't do anything to it, because if it could, do you really think the Pure Families wouldn't have tried to use it to place their children into the houses they wanted, or influence it to refuse to sort muggle-borns in hopes of them being kicked out of Hogwarts. It takes into account the individual's desires and potential. While we might have our preferences, I believe it's important for Harry to make that journey himself."
"You're right, as always," Minerva conceded. "I just want what's best for him."
"As do we all," Dumbledore replied kindly.
"Agreed," Minerva said firmly. She stood up, smoothing her robes. I'll keep a close eye on him once term starts. Perhaps I can encourage him to join some extracurricular activities and help him engage more with his peers."
"An excellent idea," Dumbledore said, rising as well. "And do keep me informed of his progress."
"Of course, Albus." She turned to leave but hesitated at the door. "One more thing. When we were leaving Diagon Alley, he asked me about his parents. Not how they died, but what they were like."
Dumbledore's expression softened. "And what did you tell him?"
"I shared some stories—how Lily was exceptionally gifted in Potions and Charms, how James was a natural on the Quidditch field. I told him a little about James...pranks. He seemed to like hearing stories about his parents." Minerva said. "I think it helped, even if just a little. Perhaps learning more about them will help him find his place here."
"Perhaps," Dumbledore echoed. "Thank you, Minerva."
As she finally took her leave, Dumbledore settled back into his chair, deep in thought. The concerns about Harry's withdrawn nature weighed on him, but the news of the boy's eagerness to learn offered a glimmer of hope.
"Books and knowledge," he mused aloud. "Just like you...Ariana," he muttered to himself with a rueful smile.
He reached over to a small silver instrument on his desk—a delicate, spindle-legged device topped with a tiny, spinning globe. With a gentle tap, it began to emit a soft, harmonious chiming.
"He talks to himself as if speaking with someone I can't see," he muttered the same words Minerva had told him, watching the globe spin. I just hope this is a child using his imagination to create a friend in his mind, and not..." His words trailed off, and the globe stopped spinning.
Harry
Harry Potter stood at the bustling entrance of King's Cross Station, clutching his trolley loaded with his Hogwarts trunk and the snowy white owl, Hedwig, in a cage atop it. The station was swarming with people, their hurried footsteps echoing around him, while the voices of travelers and station announcements created a constant hum in the air. Harry's heart pounded as he scanned the numbers above the platforms: 9... 10. Where was it?
"Remember what Professor McGonagall said, "he reminded himself, gripping the handle of his trolley a little tighter. "The entrance to Platform Nine and Three-Quarters lies between platforms nine and ten."
"This place is chaotic," Anakin said. "Reminds me of the Coruscant spaceports, with everyone rushing to get to some place or another."
Harry smiled inwardly.
"This way, Harry," Anakin prompted. "Just a few steps between those platforms."
"Yeah, I remember," Harry muttered quietly. He pushed his trolley forward, approaching the barrier between platforms nine and ten. It looked solid enough, just a normal bit of the station wall.
"I wonder how people haven't noticed that people disappear by running into this wall. It must be a spell of some kind, like the one they used for that Leaky Cauldron place, the one that smelled like a corpse."
"It's like a mirage," Anakin remarked thoughtfully. "Not too different from how some Jedi temples were hidden from sight."
"Just walk straight at the barrier," he whispered to himself, repeating McGonagall's instructions. He started pushing the trolley forward, picking up speed as he approached the wall. And then, to his surprise, the barrier did not stop him. Instead, the world seemed to ripple around him, and in an instant, he emerged onto a platform filled with wizards and witches bustling about.
"There we go," Anakin said with satisfaction. "So, this must be the platform 9 ¾."
Harry let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding, his eyes widening at the sight before him. The platform was crowded with families saying their goodbyes and students dragging their trunks toward a magnificent train that billowed steam into the cool air. Painted in rich red, the Hogwarts Express gleamed in the sunlight, its engine chuffing softly.
"It's amazing," Harry breathed, stepping further onto the platform. But his mind couldn't help but wonder how this place worked, how the barrier worked, how everything worked here. He wanted to know what kind of spell allowed them to run into that wall and made them appear in this place. He wanted to know all of it and more. He wanted to know everything.
"Not bad," Anakin commented appreciatively."Not as fast as a speeder, but there's something about the charm of a locomotive, I suppose. This whole world seems like a blend of the old and the magical."
Harry nodded slightly, his eyes still fixed on the train. "Yeah, it's... it's perfect."
"It must be like leaving the Jedi Temple for the first time, or using a Lightsaber for the first time, is quite thrilling."
"What is a Lightsaber?" Harry asked, sure his master had never said that name before.
"Well, it's hard to explain, but it's the ultimate weapon for a Jedi or a Sith. It's like a sword but not made of metal. Instead, except for the pummel, the rest is made of hot plasma that can cut through almost anything."
"That sounds AWESOME! How can I make one?" Harry quickly asked with excitement.
"I'm afraid I don't think it's possible for you to make one," Anakin said, and he could almost hear Harry's spirit being crushed into dust.
"Why not?" Harry asked with disappointment.
"Because the technology to make one doesn't exist, Harrikins. I doubt a lightsaber can be made in this world, not with the technology you all have." Anakin explained, and he knew what he said disappointed his Padawan, but he couldn't do anything to change it.
"Until now," he muttered under his breath. He was sure that with the help of Magic, he might be able to create a Lightsaber. Not now, but one day he could.
Adjusting his grip on the trolley, he moved forward through the crowd toward the train. The chattering of families and the occasional hoot of an owl in its cage mixed with the rhythmic hiss of steam escaping from the engine.
He stopped before one of the train's doors and glanced around. Many students were laughing and talking with their parents, some already climbing aboard. Harry, however, was alone. Anakin was right.
With a small, determined nod to himself, he hefted his trunk onto the train. It thumped onto the corridor floor, and he dragged it along, peeking into compartments as he went.
"Look for an empty one," Anakin suggested. "You'll want some space before you meet new people and make new friends."
Harry wanted to say that he did not need to make new friends, but every time he brought it up, his Master would keep telling him that friends were needed. Harry still remembered the kids from the first day of muggle school; they all left him the next day. He had enough friends: his master, Hedwig, and the Books. That's all he needed.
Harry continued down the corridor, peering into compartments filled with groups of friends and siblings, laughing and chattering excitedly. Finally, he found one empty near the back of the train. He slid the door open and hauled his trunk inside; he closed the door behind him and used the force to place it onto the luggage rack. Once Hedwig's cage was safely perched beside him, he sat down with a sigh.
"Well," Harry said quietly, looking out of the window as the station continued its bustle. "This is it."
"Your new life, Harry," Anakin affirmed. "You'll find friends here."
The platform was beginning to clear as students hurried onto the train, parents waving their farewells. Somewhere in the distance, a whistle blew, and the train gave a small, preparatory shudder.
"I wonder what it's going to be like," he said quietly, resting his head against the cool glass of the window. "Hogwarts. Magic. All of it."
"A lot like a Jedi Academy, I imagine," Anakin mused. "I remember the first time I started training. I made My Master quite angry with me many, many times."
Harry could hear the longing in his voice, but he noticed that his Master seemed more willing to share things about his past than he used to be in the beginning. "What was your master like, Master?"
There was silence for a long while, and Harry wondered if his Master would deflect the question when he answered. "My master was my friend, Harry. He taught me everything I knew. We might not have been on the same page many times, but he was always there with a smile, even when I broke the rules and disobeyed him. He was still there, and ready to help me, or the people that I cared about. And...I..." "We don't need to talk about this, Master. I know it's hard for you, so let's talk about something else." Harry proposed, and there was silence once again before hearing the sound of a deep sigh.
"Thank you, my Padawan." Harry felt good hearing that.
As the train finally began to move, slowly chugging away from the platform, Harry felt a surge of emotion—hope, excitement, and the faintest whisper of fear. He watched as the station receded, the platform giving way to the blur of the city outside the window.
"Here we go," he murmured, feeling the gentle sway of the train as it picked up speed.
"Yes," Anakin agreed, his voice full of warmth.
Harry turned his focus on the wand. He kept it in his bag; with a move of his finger, he made the thing float out of the bag and fall down on his hand. He looked at it closely. He reminded himself that he could still not use magic outside of school, so he could not start experimenting, but he would find a way to use magic even after the first year.
Hmm, Harry wondered out loud, "I wonder how they know when someone is outside and inside school territory."
"Maybe they have a territory spell around the school, and once you are outside of the territory, they will be informed that you used a spell outside of school." Anakin theorized.
"Territory spell?" Harry said with a chuckle at the name.
"Well, why don't you come up with a better name, genius?" Anakin remarked.
Harry grinned, his eyes glinting with amusement. "Alright, alright, give me a moment." He tapped his chin thoughtfully, his mind whirring as he considered the concept.
"How about... 'Hogwatch'? You know, like a watchdog but for Hogwarts," he said, chuckling. "If you step out of bounds, it starts barking at the Ministry of Magic."
Anakin was silent for a beat before letting out a dry laugh."Hogwatch? Really?" he quipped, amusement tinged with disbelief.
"Yeah, why not?" Harry shot back, a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "It sounds like something a magical school would have, don't you think?"
Anakin smirked. "Well, if we're going down the pun route, maybe they should call it 'Hogwarts Guardian Snoutwork.' You know, because of the hogs?"
Harry snorted. "That's even worse than mine!" he exclaimed, shaking his head in mock despair. "We're hopeless at this."
"Hey, at least I'm trying," Anakin retorted playfully. "So, Mr. Genius, any better ideas?"
Harry leaned back, gazing thoughtfully at the ceiling of the train compartment. After a moment, his eyes lit up. "What about 'Ward'? It sounds fitting for a protective spell over a territory."
Anakin raised an eyebrow appreciatively. "Ward... I like it. Short, to the point, and it actually makes sense. Much better than 'Hogwatch' or my terrible pun."
"Glad you approve," Harry said with a grin. "So maybe Hogwarts has wards around it. Once you use magic outside those wards, they can detect it."
"Now that sounds plausible," Anakin agreed."In my world, we had planetary shields and perimeter defenses. Wards seem like the magical equivalent." Anakin conceded, a smile audible in his tone. "Ward it is. But just so you know, I'm still going to call it Hogwatch every now and then. It's too funny to let go entirely."
Harry chuckled. "Fine, but only when we're alone, alright? I'd rather not be the first Hogwarts student to get detention for making the professors roll their eyes too hard."
"Deal," Anakin said with a chuckle of his own.
Their little talk was interrupted by a knock on the door. Before Harry could use the force to make the door stay shut, the door opened, and an older witch entered, followed by two other witches of around her age.
"Oh, I'm sorry. I thought this was an empty compartment." The pink-haired girl apologized and seemed about to lead her friends out of the compartment with her.
"Harry, this is your chance to make friends," Anakin shouted in his head, and the boy who lived sighed heavily in his head.
"Oh... you can come in. It's not a...problem." Harry said a little reluctantly, and the pink-haired girl looked at him as if wanting to make sure he was alright with this.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, come in." Harry invited them inside and scooched closer to the window to give them more space.
"See, Tonks. He doesn't mind having three beautiful ladies in his compartment." the one with auburn hair said with a flirting tone as she walked past the one named Tonks and entered the compartment; she gave Harry a wink, and the boy felt his cheek go bright red, especially when the same girl giggled at his expression, while Tonks and the third one he didn't know her name yet entered, closing the door, and the three of them sat on the other side of the compartment, much to Harry's relief.
"Harrikins. I think you skipped friendship and went straight to three girlfriends. I'm proud of you." Anakin teased him, and Harry could not see his face, but he was sure he was smiling.
"Shut up!" Harry blurted out in embarrassment. Looking at the older witches, he realized he must have said that out loud.
"Are you okay?" Nymphadora asked with concern.
Harry felt like he wanted to jump out of the train from embarrassment, especially since the three witches were older than him and quite pretty.
"I...I'm fine. I just—" "Wait!" the third girl chimed in, pointing a finger at him. She leaned closer, and Harry could feel himself turning red, especially since the older witch was quite beautiful to look at.
"The scar!" she exclaimed before looking right at his emerald eyes. "You are Harry Potter."
The moment that name was said, the other two girls quickly tried to get a better look at the scar, and Harry leaned back against the seat; for a moment, he wanted to get up and leave the compartment, but thankfully, one of them must have realized they were making him nervous.
"Okay, stop staring at him like a prized chicken," Tonks said with a huff, forcing her two friends to lean away from Harry, who was thankful for that.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to stare like that, but...I'm just excited to meet you," the witch with auburn hair exclaimed excitedly, her red eyes wide. Harry was sure he had never seen someone seem as excited as she seemed right now. She grabbed his hand out of nowhere and started shaking it violently, causing his entire body to shake up and down.
"Mister Harry Potter, it's an honor to meet you; my name is Anna Bones. I am your biggest fan."
Harry blinked, feeling a bit overwhelmed as the girl's firm handshake rattled through his arm and shoulder. He managed a small, awkward smile, trying not to show how uncomfortable he felt. "Uh, hi, Anna," he said, his voice shaky from the vigorous handshake. "It's... nice to meet you too."
Anna finally released his hand, her face flushed with excitement. She glanced back at her friends, who were watching Harry with a mixture of awe and curiosity.
Tonks crossed her arms and sighed. "Honestly, Anna, if you break his arm before school even starts, how's he supposed to use a wand?"
Anna's eyes widened as she quickly pulled her hands back, looking horrified. "Oh! I'm so sorry, Harry! I didn't mean to—"
Harry raised his hands in surrender, giving a light laugh. "It's okay, really. I'm not made of glass." He rubbed his arm a bit, still feeling the aftershocks of her enthusiasm. "And, uh... thanks, Tonks, was it?"
"Yep! Nymphadora Tonks, but just call me Tonks. I'd prefer not to hex you on the first day," she said with a grin, giving him a friendly wink. "These two just got a bit excited, that's all."
"Right," Harry said, his eyes darting to the other girl, who had yet to introduce herself. She had curly brown hair and freckles dusted across her nose. She seemed slightly less overwhelmed than Anna but still looked at him with interest.
"I'm Marissa," the girl said, her tone more reserved than Anna's. "Marissa Flowerbloom. And, well, we've all heard so much about you, so... sorry if our little girl was a little too excited."
"Hey, that's not true." Anna defended herself.
Harry managed a small, grateful smile. "It's alright. I suppose... it's kind of expected." He glanced out of the window briefly. "I'm just not used to all this... attention."
"Well, you'll have to get used to it at Hogwarts," Anna said, still bubbling with excitement. "You're famous! The Boy Who Lived!"
Harry winced slightly at the title, shifting in his seat. "Yeah, I've heard that one," he muttered, his eyes flicking to Tonks, who was watching him with an amused yet knowing expression.
Anakin's voice echoed in his mind, a faint chuckle behind the words. "Looks like you've got fans, Harry. Three girlfriends already, like I said."
Harry resisted the urge to roll his eyes and instead shot back internally, "I thought you were supposed to be helping me, not making this worse."
"Hey, I'm just here for moral support," Anakin replied, his tone almost mockingly innocent. "Besides, you're handling it just fine."
Tonks must have caught the flicker of discomfort in his eyes because she cleared her throat loudly, drawing the attention back to herself. "Anyway," she said, cutting off Anna before she could launch into what looked like another slew of questions, "We're all headed to Hogwarts. So how about we get to know each other without treating Harry like a museum exhibit?"
Harry shot her a grateful look, feeling a bit more relaxed. "Yeah, that'd be nice."
"Great!" Tonks said, flashing a wide smile. "So, what's everyone looking forward to at Hogwarts?"
Anna's eyes lit up immediately. "I can't wait to beat that prick Dakon, My aunt taught me all I need to know to defeat him, and become the best dueling student in Hogwarts!"
"Why do you want to be the best dueling student in Hogwarts?" Harry asked curiously.
"I want to be as good as my father, Harry," Anna answered with a hint of determination in her voice, but something Harry noticed was a subtle longing in her emotions.
Wait, Emotions! Harry was caught off guard, but as he looked back at the auburn older witch, the feeling was gone. Huh, that was strange, he thought, wondering if the Force somehow made him able to feel other people's emotions.
Marissa nodded thoughtfully. "I'm looking forward to Herbology. You should as well, Mister Potter. Herbology has many great things like Venomous Tentacula, Chinese Chomping Cabbage, and Mandrake." She turned her gaze to Harry, her eyes curious but not as probing as before. "What about you, Harry?"
Harry hesitated, feeling the eyes of the three beautiful girls on him. He shifted in his seat, then shrugged. "Honestly? I'm just excited to learn about magic, period. I grew up with Muggles, so all of this is new to me."
Tonks whistled low. "Muggle-born life, huh? Or rather, Muggle-raised in your case. Bet that was a wild change."
"You have no idea," Harry replied, smiling a bit now that the conversation had shifted to something more normal. "Everything about the wizarding world is... incredible. I don't even know where to start."
Anna leaned forward, her eyes shining. "Well, Hogwarts is the perfect place to learn! You're going to love it, Harry, really. It's like a giant magical castle where everything feels alive! I can give you a tour if you want!"
"See? They're already giving you the grand tour," Anakin chimed in with a chuckle. "Nicely done, Harry. You're holding your own here." Then, with a hint of amusement, he added, "Though I have to say, you're a lot smoother than I was at your age. Must be that wizarding charm."
Harry smirked inwardly. "Maybe, but I think I'll pass on getting involved in any galaxy-wide wars or prophecy nonsense for now," he thought back dryly before turning his attention back to the conversation.
"Yeah, I'm excited," Harry admitted aloud, glancing at the three girls. "I heard the library is huge. I might get lost in there for a while."
Tonks raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. "A bookworm, eh? I didn't expect that, Mr. Boy-Who-Lived."
Harry chuckled, shaking his head. "I just want to learn as much as I can. There's so much I've missed out on."
"Well, you'll catch up quickly, I'm sure," Marissa said kindly.
"Exactly!" Anna added, practically bouncing in her seat. And if you need help with anything, you've got us now! And if you want, you can meet with my younger sister. She is a first-year like you; her name is Susan."
Harry couldn't help but smile at that. "Thanks. I appreciate it."
"So, Harry, got any ideas on which house you want to be in?"
Harry blinked, not having thought much about it. "I'm not sure, to be honest. I've heard a bit about the houses, but I don't really know where I fit in."
"Well, you'll find out soon enough," Marissa said reassuringly. "The Sorting Hat has a knack for figuring out where we belong. I'm in Slytherin, Anna is in Ravenclaw, and Tonks is in Hufflepuff."
"I'm sure you will be in Ravenclaw!" Marissa agreed. "And, you know, if you need any help practicing spells..." She let the offer hang in the air, a small smile on her lips.
Harry raised an eyebrow, his face turning red again. "I'll keep that in mind," he replied smoothly.
"Well, you seem to be handling yourself just fine for a first year," she remarked. "If you can keep up that wit, you might actually survive Hogwarts."
"I'll take that as a compliment," Harry said. "Besides," Harry added, flashing a sly grin at the three girls, "I think it's you lot who'll have to keep up with me."
Anna and Marissa exchanged a look before bursting into laughter while Tonks raised an impressed eyebrow. "Touché, Potter. Touché."
"Alright then," Marissa said, leaning back with a smile. "Looks like this is going to be an interesting year after all."
Harry shifted in his seat. "So, what about the professors?" he asked, glancing at the three girls. "Anything I should know about them before I walk into class. I have already met Professor McGonagall, so I know what to expect from her, but I don't know anything about the others?"
"Oh! Yes!" Anna practically bounced in her seat, her auburn hair falling into her face. "You have to meet Professor Garlick. She's the head of Hufflepuff House and teaches Herbology. She's the kindest, sweetest person you'll ever meet! She has this way of making even the most boring plant seem fascinating." Her eyes glowed with admiration as she spoke. "She's always got a smile, and she helps everyone feel right at home. Honestly, she's one of the best things about Hogwarts!"
"She sounds nice," he replied. "I didn't know professors could be that... friendly."
"Oh, Professor Garlick's more than friendly," Anna continued eagerly. "She's got this garden behind the greenhouses filled with plants you'd never imagine existed. She takes care of each one like they're her own children." Anna's excitement was infectious.
"Well, before you start dreaming about endless days of gardening with Professor Garlick," Marissa interjected, her tone turning more serious, "you'd better watch out for Professor Snape."
"Snape?" he repeated, the name sounding harsh and sharp on his tongue.
"Yeah," Marissa said, crossing her arms. "He's the Potions Master and the head of Slytherin House. And let me tell you, he's not exactly known for being... welcoming. Most students think he's downright cruel, especially to anyone who's not in Slytherin." She paused, eyeing Harry intently. "Rumor has it he holds a grudge against anyone from Gryffindor. So, if you end up there, be prepared."
Tonks nodded in agreement, her hair shifting back to a bubblegum pink. "Yeah, Snape's a tough one. Not the kind of professor who gives out warm smiles or compliments. He's got this air about him—like he can see straight into your soul and find every mistake you've ever made."
"Well, that's reassuring," Harry muttered. "I guess I'll try to stay out of his way."
"This Snape reminds me a little of Master Windu."
"Master Windu?"
"He was a Master Jedi on the Jedi Council, out of all of them, he always seemed to be against the way I did things, but if this Snape is like Windu, then as long as you stay out of his way, then you should not have any problems with any of the Professors."
"Why do I have a feeling that is not going to be that easy?"
"Well, we don't know anything about him, and if he proves to be a problem, then we can...Let's talk about this later, Harry. You are staring without blinking, and your girlfriends might think you are not okay in the head if you keep staring like a donkey."
"Well, you are in my head Master, so there's a chance I'm not 'Okay' in my 'Head'." Harry teased with a smile.
"Very funny, Harrikins, now focus on your girlfriends."
"They are not my girlfriends," Harry shouted in his head before focusing on the girls again, quickly realizing they were talking something about Professor Minerva.
The girls were about to continue their discussion when the compartment door suddenly slid open with a loud clatter. A girl with bushy brown hair stood in the doorway; her face flushed slightly as if she had been hurrying. Beside her was a boy with a round face and blonde hair, looking both worried and hopeful.
"Excuse me," the girl began briskly, her eyes scanning the compartment. "Has anyone seen a toad? Neville here has lost his, and we've been looking all over the train."
The boy, Neville, gave a sheepish nod. "His name's Trevor," he mumbled, clearly distressed. "He keeps getting away from me."
"Not even a glimpse," Tonks added sympathetically, giving Neville a small smile. "But we can help you look if you want. There's still time before we get to Hogwarts."
"I don't think there's a need." Harry suddenly said, and before they could ask what he meant, Harry closed his eyes and used the Force and his Magic. He opened his hand, and suddenly, a frog flew through the opened door and straight into Harry's hands.
"TREVOR!" Neville shouted in disbelief and relief, quickly snatching the toad from Harry's hands; he looked at it to see if it was hurt; once he realized Trevor wasn't hurt, he looked back at Harry. "Thank you...ahhh..."
"My name is Harry Potter." Harry introduced himself, feeling a little overwhelmed, especially when the bushy-haired girl stepped inside and sat right next to him, her mouth wide open in disbelief.
"Holy Cricket! My name is Hermione Granger!" she introduced herself, and Harry shook her hand, not knowing what else to do.
Harry could feel his heart beating faster, and for a moment, he thought of just walking outside.
"Harry, calm down. You are fine."
"I'm not fine, Master. I need to take a breather."
"Harry, they are your friends, well, they can be your friends."
"I don't need friends, Master." Harry insisted, feeling the urge to use force or something. He knew the bushy-haired girl was bombarding him with questions.
Anakin took a deep breath, steadying himself before responding, his tone becoming gentle but firm. "Harry, listen to me," he began, his voice calm and filled with reassurance. "You're feeling overwhelmed, and that's okay. You've been through a lot. But you're stronger than you think, and you've faced far more daunting things than a few questions from a bushy-haired girl."
Harry leaned against the compartment wall, clenching his fists as he tried to push down the swirling emotions rising inside him. "They are not needed. I have you, Master. I don't need friends. You know I told you what happened last time I tried to get friends."
"They are not the same. You can't paint everyone with the same paint. If that's the case. Do you think I will leave you one day? Is that what you think?"
"No. I know you will never leave me alone...I would be lost without you...I would be alone again."
"Harry," Anakin continued. "Friends are not a weakness. They're a strength. I know it might seem like they're crowding you now like they're a storm you can't control, but look at them. They're just curious, excited. They're not here to hurt you."
Suddenly, their conversation came to an abrupt end when Neville tumbled to the floor near the compartment's window. They all turned at the sound of an irritating voice from the doorway.
"Watch where you're going, Longbottom."
A blonde boy stood in the entrance, flanked by two much larger boys. For a moment, Harry thought they might be second-years, but his focus quickly shifted to the blonde kid sneering down at Neville as Anna rushed to help him up.
"Why did you push Neville?" Anna demanded, her scowl directed at the newcomer.
The boy laughed mockingly, but before he could respond, Marissa spoke up, her eyes flashing with disgust. "Because he's a Malfoy," she spat, glaring at the blonde boy. "That's what they're all like. If you ever imagine the slimiest, most vile thing, a Malfoy will always be at the bottom of it. Nothing but worms dressed in fancy clothes," she added, her voice brimming with anger. This time, Harry didn't need the Force to sense just how furious Marissa was at Draco's presence.
Draco's sneer deepened, his eyes narrowing as he jabbed a finger at Marissa. "Watch your tongue, half-blood or you will end up like your big brother," he snarled, his tone dripping with malice.
It looked like Marissa was ready to pounce, but before she could, Harry stood up, his unblinking and steady eyes fixed on Draco.
"No one invited you here, Malfoy," Harry said, his voice calm but commanding. "If you're not here to be friendly, then you should leave."
Draco seemed to want to insult Harry when his eyes focused on Harry's forehead, and his eyes lit up. "The scar. You must be... Harry Potter, " he said with a little cunning smile, his eyes looking beyond Harry at the people in the compartment with mockery. "My name is Draco Malfoy; you don't want to associate yourself with people like them. I can help you with that." Draco said, extending his hand towards Harry so that he could shake.
"Thank you for the offer, Mister Malfoy, but no thanks. I don't become friends with cowards who push people from behind for no reason," Harry said, and he was about to close the door when Draco said something he shouldn't have.
"You will pay for that, Potter. You will end up just like your parents."
Harry narrowed his gaze, and suddenly, Draco was pushed roughly against the wall, causing him to start coughing. Harry looked at the two bodyguard-looking boys, who seemed afraid of him.
"Leave," Harry ordered in a commanding voice. The two helped Draco up and started walking away.
"Good job, Harry. He is just a bully, and one thing all bullies have in common is that they are all cowards."
Once they were far enough away, he closed the door and turned around to see everyone looking at him with amazement. "How did you push him like that? Are you super strong or something?" Anna blurted out with even more excitement, and Harry sighed, trying to come up with a reason without bringing up the Force.
Later
As Harry and the rest of the Hogwarts students push their way towards the door and out onto a tiny, dark platform. A lamp comes bobbing over the heads of the students, and Harry hears a booming voice: "Firs years! Firs' years over here!"
Everyone looks up and sees a huge black-bearded man with a lamp. Harry sees that the giant is at least eight and a half feet tall.
"I pity the person that makes his clothes..." Harry mumbled under his breath. Based on his description, he was sure this one must be Hagrid.
Anakin chuckled in the back of Harry's mind. "No kidding. Can you imagine the fabric bill for a guy like that? Makes Wookiees look like they shop at the kid's section."
"What is a Wookie?" Harry asked curiously.
Anakin let out a light, amused sigh. "Ah, right. Different world, different creatures." He paused for a moment as if searching for the right words. "A Wookiee is... well, imagine someone as tall as Hagrid but covered head-to-toe in fur. They're incredibly strong, loyal, and have a bit of a temper if you cross them."
Harry blinked, trying to picture a fur-covered giant. "Sounds like a magical creature," he thought back.
"Not magical," Anakin corrected with a hint of a smile in his tone. "But trust me, you'd definitely think twice before upsetting one, just like our friend Hagrid here."
Harry stifled a laugh at the thought, trying to keep his face straight as the enormous man approached.
Harry nodded subtly, watching as Hagrid moved closer. "Yeah, definitely not someone I'd want to upset," he thought back to Anakin.
Slipping and stumbling, they follow the man down what seems to be a steep and narrow path. It leads them in front of a big Great Lake.
"No more'n four to a boat!" The giant calls out, pointing to a fleet of little boats in the water by the shore. Harry eventually sat in a boat by himself.
"Everyone in?" The bearded man shouts, Who has a boat to himself?
"Right then—FORWARD!"
Soon, an enormous castle comes into view as the boats sail across the lake, and Harry gasps at the amazing sight. This was definitely a magical place. It was Beautiful.
"This is your place now, Harry. Embrace it." Then, with a hint of a chuckle, he added, "And if it's anything like my training grounds, you might want to get used to climbing those towers, thankfully I taught you how to climb trees even without using the Force."
They soon go underneath the castle and clamber out into the rocks and pebbles. "Everyone here?" The giant asks.
"Good." He leads them up a flight of stone steps and crowds around the huge Oak from the door. The man raises a gigantic fist and knocks on the castle door thrice.
The door swings open at once. Professor Minerva stood before them almost like a vampire, judging by how serious she looked."The firs' years, Professor McGonagall." He says to the older lady.
She looks around the crowd and instantly spots Harry. She keeps her eyes on him for a solid two seconds before turning her attention back on the large man.
"Thank you, Hagrid. I will take them from here." She claps her hands together. She then explains that once they are sorted into their respective houses, that house becomes like a second family for them. She explains how House Points work and how one can earn and lose House Points. Harry thought House Points sounded a little pointless but kept quiet once she told them to form a line.
Everyone looks around in awe as they walk through the double doors and admire the Great Hall, decorated with candles and many tables with students watching them. Harry looks up and sees the roof itself, which appears to be a night sky.
"Cool ceiling."
"It's not real, it's just bewitched to look like the night sky." She starts to explain in her "know-it-all" voice.
"All right, will you wait along here, please? Now, before we begin, Professor Dumbledore would like to say a few words," She announces before moving to the side.
Dumbledore stands up from his seat. "I have something to announce. The Forbidden Forest near our school remains Forbidden for everyone. Magic outside classes should not be used, and the third-floor corridor on the right side is out of bounds for everyone who does not wish to die a slow and painful death." He smiles before sitting down.
'Painful Death!'Harry mumbles to himself.
Anakin let out a low whistle in Harry's mind. "Well, that's one way to get everyone's attention," he commented, a hint of amusement in his tone. "A 'slow and painful death'? Quite the welcome speech."
He paused thoughtfully before adding, "If I've learned anything from my days in the Temple, it's this: the more they tell you not to go somewhere, the more interesting it usually is." There was a flicker of excitement in his voice. "Third-floor corridor, huh? Something tells me you might be paying that place a visit sooner or later. Just... try not to make it a habit to seek out slow and painful deaths, alright?"
Harry could almost picture Anakin smirking. "I might check it out, but just for fun. I haven't gone mad yet."
McGonagall walks back to the group with a stool, scroll, and an odd wizard's hat. "When I call your name, you will come forth. I shall place the sorting hat over your head, and you will be sorted into your houses," she informs as she opens the rather long scroll.
"Abbot, Hannah!" They watched as the girl quickly sat on the stole, and the hat was placed on her head; they all fell silent. —
"HUFFLEPUFF!" The hat shouts.
"Bones, Susan!" It didn't take long for this one to be sorted. "HUFFLEPUFF!" shouts the hat again.
So that's Anna's sister, Harry thought, finding it amusing that Susan wasn't in the same house as her older sister.
Harry doesn't pay much attention to the others until-"Granger, Hermione!" Hermione almost runs to the stool and eagerly jams the hat on her head. "RAVENCLAW!" shouts the hat.
Well, that's surprising, Harry thought as the bushy-haired girl ran up to the Ravenclaw table.
Then, Neville is called. The boy stumbles a little as he sits on the stool, and Minerva places the hat on his head. For half a minute, the hat remains silent until it shouts. "GRYFFINDOR,"
When Malfoy's turn came, the hat only touched him slightly before sorting him to Slytherin.
Harry didn't care much for the others until his name was finally called. "Potter, Harry!"
As he steps forward, several whispers break out like hissing snakes. "Potter, did she say?"
"The Harry Potter?!"
"He's so cute! I hope he's in Ravenclaw."
"I didn't know he was arriving this year."
Harry sits down, and Minerva places the sorting hat on his head. A voice, this one not belonging to his Master, suddenly speaks.
"Well, hello there, Harry Potter."
"Wait! Are you in my head?" Harry asked, finding it a little alarming, knowing the sorting hat might be able to sense his Master's presence.
"Yes, but don't worry. I never share the secrets, even if the headmaster himself asks me, so open your mind boy. You have no reason to fear me." The hat said, and Harry knew the hat had a point.
"Well, well, this is new. I see you have a great thirst for knowledge. You want to prove everyone that you are worthy, you want to have control over your life, and you are already quite smart. Hmmm, no friends, and you don't seem to be in a hurry to have them. Hmmm, you think before doing something, but I can sense a deep sense of loyalty, but your thirst for Knowledge and Power. It's fascinating, I think I should put you...Wait... what is this??? Who is there? I know I can sense someone else there. Show yourself." The hat almost ordered, and Harry felt cold sweat on his forehead when his Master Spoke.
Anakin's voice resonated calmly within Harry's mind, addressing the Sorting Hat directly. "Greetings," he said, his tone respectful yet firm. "I am Anakin Skywalker, a friend and mentor to Harry. My presence here is unconventional, I admit, but I assure you, I mean no harm to him or your magic school."
The Sorting Hat paused, contemplating this new development. "Anakin Skywalker, you say? A most unusual situation indeed. Never before have I encountered such a presence within a student's mind."
"Understandable," Anakin replied. "Our connection is unique. I come from... a different place, and I've been guiding Harry for some time now. I prefer to remain unseen, for his sake and mine."
The hat considered his words. "Your intentions toward the boy are protective, then?"
"Absolutely," Anakin affirmed. "I wish only to help him. If my presence poses a problem, I apologize. But please know that I am here to support him."
The Sorting Hat hummed thoughtfully. "Very well. While unprecedented, your honesty is appreciated. This will remain between us. Now, let us proceed with the sorting."
Anakin's tone lightened slightly. "Thank you. I trust you'll place Harry where he truly belongs."
"Indeed," the hat responded. "You know. I can read your mind, well, some of it, but from what I can read, Mister Anakin. You would be perfect for Gryffindor."
"...I see. Thank you, Sorting Hat. What about Harry?"
"I think it can only be...RAVENCLAW!"
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