Stepping into Hogwarts as 'Henry Peverell' was like stepping into another world. Though the structure was identical, the faces, apart from Orion's, were unfamiliar. It was like peering through a looking glass into a distant past.

Upon his arrival, he was immediately sorted into Gryffindor. The Sorting Hat, a sentient piece of magic, recognized him immediately. But after a brief, silent conversation, it agreed to his request for secrecy, allowing him to choose his house. Gryffindor was where he'd always belonged, and it's where he chose to be again.

His arrival caused quite a stir. A new student in the fourth year was unheard of. Speculation about his background was rife, fueled by the enigmatic answers he gave whenever asked. He was from a distant branch of the Peverell family, he'd say, homeschooled until now due to extensive traveling with his parents.

Orion Black, though initially indifferent, soon became curious. His fascination began as a mere curiosity, an idle interest in the newcomer who had suddenly appeared in the same year. And the fact that Henry was muggle-born - a fact that Harry had decided to put out as a part of his cover story - intrigued Orion even more. Orion had always been more open-minded than the rest of his family, and Henry's unique situation appealed to that part of him.

"Henry Peverell," Orion said one day, approaching him after classes. "You're an enigma."

"I suppose I am," Henry smiled, looking at the dark-haired boy in front of him. "Is that a problem?"

Orion looked at him, a thoughtful expression on his face. "No, I don't think it is. It's... refreshing, in fact."

And that was the beginning of their friendship.

As the days passed, Henry began to settle into his new role. He proved himself to be an exceptional wizard, his spellwork and magical theory knowledge astounding professors and students alike. He was soon respected and well-liked, both for his magical prowess and his amiable nature. It was hard to believe that this well-adjusted, confident young man was the same boy who had once been tormented by a deranged dark wizard.

He subtly started influencing the mindset of his fellow students, speaking of the importance of unity, the potential that the magical world held if they just harnessed it right, and the dangers of getting involved with the non-magical world. His ideas were progressive and intriguing. Many students found themselves gravitating towards him, his charisma drawing them in.

Henry wasn't all work and no play, though. He participated in Quidditch, showcasing his exceptional flying skills. He attended Hogsmeade weekends, blending in with the other students. And slowly, he began to forge a bond with Orion Black.

Their friendship was a slow-burning flame, ignited by shared classes and mutual respect, and fanned by the many late-night study sessions and shared secrets. Henry helped Orion with his studies, showing him unique ways of looking at magical concepts, and Orion offered Henry a glimpse into pureblood culture, something that Henry had only seen the negative aspects of before.

As Christmas drew near, Henry found himself more and more drawn to Orion. He was nothing like Sirius, and yet, there were similarities that tugged at Henry's heart. His determination, his quiet loyalty, and the glimpses of a rebellious streak were all traits Sirius had possessed. And Orion, despite being a Black and having been brought up with certain prejudiced views, was surprisingly open-minded.

Henry had initially decided to approach Orion purely because of his strategic position within the Black family, but he had unknowingly found a friend in him. And as they decorated the Christmas tree in the Gryffindor common room, he couldn't help but wonder if, just maybe, there could be more.

But for now, he was content. His plan was in motion, he was making progress, and he was gaining a friend in Orion. Everything was falling into place. As he hung the last bauble on the Christmas tree, he knew that he had made the right decision coming back in time.

It was a fresh start, a chance to protect the magical world he so loved. But most importantly, it was a chance to do things differently, to choose his own path. And as he looked at Orion, who was standing next to him, a warm smile on his face, he knew that this was just the beginning.