Thank you for your feedback. As some of you have pointed out, the first-person view may not be enjoyable for everyone, so I've decided to discontinue its use in the chapters. While it was fun for me to delve into Harry's thoughts during each interaction, I understand that it may not be the preferred style for all readers.
Hogwarts infirmary
As Harry regained consciousness, the world around him swam into focus. He blinked away the haze, his senses slowly returning as he took in his surroundings. He was lying in a hospital bed, the crisp white sheets surrounding him, and the faint scent of antiseptic lingering in the air.
His hands throbbed beneath the bandages, a dull ache reminded him of the ordeal he had endured. He flexed his fingers experimentally, wincing at the twinge of pain that shot through them.
Turning his head, Harry's gaze fell upon the adjacent beds where Ron and Hermione lay, their faces pale and peaceful in sleep. The sight of them brought a rush of memories flooding back – the duel with Voldemort, the desperate struggle to survive, and the harrowing aftermath.
Anger simmered within Harry as he reflected on the events that had unfolded. He couldn't shake the frustration at Ron and Hermione for dragging him into this perilous mess. The reckless pursuit of the Philosopher's Stone had nearly cost them their lives.
Harry's gaze hardened as he remembered how Voldemort had toyed with him, exploiting his vulnerabilities and nearly ending him. It was pure luck that he had survived, and he vowed that it would not happen again.
A steely determination settled in Harry's eyes. He swore to himself that he would do everything in his power to be strong and never again be played with like a pawn in someone else's game.
As he lay there, surrounded by the quiet hum of the hospital wing, Harry made a silent promise to grow stronger, both in magic and in resolve. The experiences of that night had left scars, both physical and emotional, but he was determined to emerge from them with newfound strength and resilience.
As Harry lay in the hospital bed, his mind churned with thoughts of how he could leverage the recent events to his advantage. He considered the possibilities, weighing the potential outcomes with a shrewd calculation.
"If I play my cards right," Harry mused to himself, "I could come out of this looking like a second coming of Merlin."
The realization dawned on him - he had saved the Philosopher's Stone from a dark wizard, an act of bravery that could elevate his status in the wizarding world. The fame and recognition that came with such a feat could open doors and opportunities that he had never imagined before.
But Harry knew that he needed to be strategic in how he presented the events. He couldn't risk revealing the true identity of the dark wizard he had faced. Voldemort's name carried too much fear and power, and associating himself with it could do more harm than good.
"People don't need to know it was Voldemort," Harry thought, his mind racing with possibilities. "I can let them believe it was just another dark wizard, defeated by the Boy Who Lived."
Neville, who had unwittingly dragged him into this dangerous pursuit, could be a pawn in this strategic game. Harry considered the Longbottom family, known for their longstanding ties to the magical world. If he played his cards right, the Longbottoms would feel indebted to him for a long time.
In the world of wizardry, reputation and image were everything. If Harry could craft the narrative in his favor, he could use this incident to not only boost his fame but also to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with.
As he lay in the hospital bed, contemplating the possibilities, Harry felt a newfound determination. The events may have been a trial by fire, but he saw the potential to rise from the ashes with a reputation that would echo through the halls of Hogwarts and beyond. A sly grin spread across Harry's face as he formulated his plan. He would use the events of that night to his advantage, shaping the narrative to cast himself in the most favorable light.
As Harry contemplated his newfound potential for fame and recognition, he knew he needed to ride this wave while it lasted. Thoughts of the persistent letters he had received from a journalist named Rita Skeeter flooded his mind. She had been relentless in her pursuit of an interview, eager to capitalize on any opportunity to boost her career.
"I need to have a sit down with Rita Skeeter as soon as I'm able to," Harry resolved, his mind already racing with plans for how he could use the media attention to his advantage.
He knew that Skeeter's pen could either elevate him to even greater heights of fame or tear him down with a single stroke. But Harry was ready to take the risk. He saw an opportunity to control the narrative, to shape the story of his heroics in a way that would solidify his place in the wizarding world.
With a determined resolve, Harry vowed to seize the opportunity before him and make the most of his fame. He would meet with Rita Skeeter and ensure that his story was told the way he wanted it to be told. And with any luck, he would emerge from the spotlight as a legend in the eyes of the wizarding world.
As Hermione and Ron stirred awake, Harry engaged them in small talk, carefully masking any trace of the anger bubbling beneath the surface. Despite the tension lingering between them, Harry maintained a facade of normalcy, unwilling to let his emotions betray him.
However, his focus shifted abruptly when he noticed Daphne entering the hospital wing. Her usually serene expression was marred by tears, her beautiful blue eyes bloodshot from crying.
Without a word, Daphne threw herself into a tight embrace with Harry, her emotions spilling over. When she finally calmed down, the relief in her eyes was evident, but it quickly turned to frustration.
"What were you thinking, Harry?" Daphne chided, her voice a mixture of concern and anger. "Acting so recklessly, risking your life like that!"
Harry held her at arm's length, his gaze meeting hers. "Daphne, I had to do what I could to stop them. I couldn't let them get hurt."
Daphne's anger shifted, this time directed toward Hermione. In an instant, she drew her wand, ready to unleash her fury on Hermione. However, Harry intervened, wrapping his arms around Daphne and holding her back.
Before Daphne could act, Harry intervened, grasping her wand hand firmly and holding her back. "Daphne, stop," he urged, his voice calm but firm as he prevented her from lashing out at Hermione.
Madam Pomfrey, alerted by the commotion, swiftly approached and reprimanded Daphne for causing a scene in the hospital wing. "You can't cause a scene in the hospital wing," Madam Pomfrey scolded. "I'll have to ask you to leave if you can't calm down."
Reluctantly, Daphne lowered her wand, her anger still simmering beneath the surface. "I'm sorry," she muttered, shooting a final glare at Hermione.
Harry promised to talk to Daphne later, and Madam Pomfrey escorted her out of the hospital wing to avoid further disruption.
Later that day, Neville visited Harry, his eyes brimming with tears. Guilt weighed heavily on Neville's shoulders for having dragged Harry into danger, and he couldn't hold back his emotions.
"I'm so sorry, Harry," Neville stammered, his voice choked with remorse. "I never meant for any of this to happen. My grandmother is furious with me for putting you in harm's way."
Harry listened intently as Neville explained how his grandmother was beside herself with worry and anger over Neville's actions. She had asked if Harry would be willing to visit them during the summer so she could speak to him in person.
As Neville spoke, Harry couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This was playing out exactly as he had hoped. By agreeing to visit Neville's family, he would not only strengthen his bond with Neville but also gain favor with his influential grandmother.
"It's alright, Neville," Harry said reassuringly, placing a comforting hand on his friend's shoulder. "I understand. And of course, I'll visit you during the summer. Your grandmother can speak to me all she wants."
Neville, visibly relieved, nodded gratefully.
A sense of relief washed over Neville's face as he wiped away his tears. "Thank you, Harry. You have no idea how much this means to me."
Harry nodded, a determined glint in his eyes. This was just the beginning. He had plans to leverage every opportunity to his advantage, and visiting Neville's family was just the first step in his carefully laid strategy.
Harry lay in his hospital bed, the quiet hum of the hospital wing providing a backdrop to his thoughts when the door creaked open once more. This time, it was Professor Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling with a warmth that Harry found both reassuring and enigmatic.
"Good evening, Harry," Dumbledore greeted, his voice gentle yet authoritative. "I hope you are feeling better after your ordeal."
"Better, Professor," Harry replied, propping himself up on his elbows. "Thanks to Madam Pomfrey."
Dumbledore took a seat beside Harry's bed, his gaze filled with a mixture of pride and curiosity. "I wanted to talk to you, Harry, about the events that transpired. I must say, I am immensely proud of the courage you displayed, risking your life to save your friends."
Harry nodded, allowing a touch of humility to color his expression. "Thank you, Professor. It was nothing."
Dumbledore's gaze held a knowing glint as he leaned in slightly. "Nothing, you say? I beg to differ, Harry. Your actions were nothing short of remarkable."
Harry offered a modest smile, knowing that Dumbledore's words were calculated to stroke his ego. "Well, I suppose I did what needed to be done."
Harry looked at Dumbledore, his expression a mix of gratitude and curiosity. "What happened to the Philosopher's Stone, Professor?"
Dumbledore's eyes sparkled even more as if pleased by Harry's inquisitive nature. "Ah, the Stone. It was destroyed, my boy. Nicholas and I agreed that it was best to ensure it could not fall into the wrong hands."
Harry's expression remained neutral, though disappointment flickered briefly in his eyes. "Destroyed, you say? A pity. Such a powerful artifact lost forever."
Dumbledore nodded solemnly. "Indeed, Harry. But sometimes, sacrifices must be made for the greater good."
"Of course, Professor," Harry replied smoothly, concealing his thoughts.
"Professor Dumbledore," Harry began, his eyes narrowing with a newfound determination, "why did my touch burn Voldemort?"
Dumbledore regarded Harry with a solemn expression, his eyes filled with sorrow. "Ah, Harry, it is because of the powerful protection you possess."
"Protection?" Harry echoed, his mind racing with questions.
"Yes, Harry," Dumbledore affirmed, his tone gentle yet firm. "The love your mother had for you, the sacrifice she made to save you, created a powerful magical barrier. Voldemort's touch, tainted by his darkness, cannot harm you as long as that protection remains."
Harry's eyes widened in astonishment, the weight of his mother's love sinking in. "But why did Voldemort target my family in the first place?" he pressed.
Dumbledore met Harry's gaze, the blue eyes reflecting both wisdom and sorrow. "That, Harry, is a question for another time. There are things, Harry, that I've kept from you to protect you. Some answers may come at a cost. I wanted you to experience the joys of childhood before the weight of destiny pressed upon your shoulders."
Harry's annoyance grew, and he shot back, "Joy? What joy have I known, Professor? My life has been a series of battles. I deserve the truth."
Dumbledore, unfazed by Harry's frustration, simply nodded. "In due time, Harry. All will be revealed when the time is right. Trust that there are reasons beyond your current understanding."
Harry clenched his jaw, the desire for answers burning within him. Dumbledore's cryptic responses only fueled his determination to uncover the secrets of his past.
As Dumbledore stood by Harry's hospital bed, the conversation took an unexpected turn. Harry, sensing an opportunity to escape the confines of Privet Drive, gathered the courage to make an unusual request.
"Professor Dumbledore," Harry began tentatively, "do you think I could stay at Hogwarts during the summer? The Dursleys... well, they're not the most welcoming bunch."
Dumbledore's expression softened, a hint of concern flickering in his eyes. "Harry, the Dursleys may not be ideal, but they are your family. It's important to maintain those connections, no matter how challenging they may be."
Harry hesitated for a moment, contemplating his next move. "Well, what if I have another option? The Malfoys have invited me to stay with them for the summer. I don't think the Dursleys would mind, and it would give me a break from Privet Drive."
A shadow passed over Dumbledore's face, a hint of concern in his eyes. "Harry, I must advise against accepting such an offer. The Malfoys may not have your best interests at heart. It's essential to consider the implications of aligning yourself with certain families."
Harry nodded earnestly, hiding the satisfaction bubbling within him. "I appreciate your concern, Professor, but I assure you, the Malfoys have assured me of their hospitality. I believe it could be a beneficial experience for me. Dursleys have never treated me well. I just thought..."
Dumbledore interrupted, his expression stern. "Give me some time to consider this matter, Harry. Staying with the Malfoys might not be the best solution. I will explore other options for your summer accommodations. In the meantime, focus on your recovery and the end-of-term festivities."
As Dumbledore left, a sly grin crept across Harry's face. He had planted the seed of doubt in Dumbledore's mind, ensuring that the possibility of him spending the summer at Malfoy Manor lingered in the headmaster's thoughts.
The Great Hall
The Great Hall buzzed with anticipation as the students took their seats for the end-of-term feast. Harry found himself amidst his Slytherin classmates, the emerald green decorations casting a shimmering glow across the room.
Dumbledore's voice echoed through the hall, congratulating Slytherin on a successful year. The Slytherins exchanged triumphant glances, reveling in the recognition of their achievements. However, Harry's mood soured when Dumbledore proceeded to award points to Gryffindor for Ron and Hermione's bravery.
Harry couldn't believe his ears. Dumbledore was rewarding Gryffindor for their trouble-making antics. The Slytherin table exchanged disapproving glances, the rivalry between the houses intensifying. Neville, however, received points for standing up for what was right, a decision that Harry begrudgingly accepted.
The points announcement left Gryffindor and Slytherin tied, setting the stage for Dumbledore's next revelation. The entire hall fell silent as Dumbledore declared, "For exceptional bravery and saving the lives of fellow classmates, I award a hundred points to Harry Potter and Slytherin."
A hush fell over the Great Hall, and Harry felt the weight of everyone's eyes on him. The Slytherin table erupted into cheers and applause, their earlier disapproval forgotten. Harry, though appreciative of the points, found the entire spectacle unnecessary. Nevertheless, it served a purpose – confirming the rumors circulating about his confrontation with the possessed Quirrell and his role in saving Ron and Hermione, solidifying his reputation as a hero in the eyes of his peers.
As the cheers subsided, Dumbledore announced the winner of the House Cup. "With a total of five hundred fifty points, Slytherin is the winner of this year's House Cup!"
The Slytherins erupted in cheers once more, their pride evident in the sea of green and silver. Harry, still processing the turn of events, couldn't shake the feeling that Dumbledore's decisions were part of a larger narrative.
In the quiet aftermath of the celebratory feast, Dumbledore approached Harry with a warm smile. The twinkling light in his eyes hinted at a conversation of significance.
"Harry," Dumbledore began, his voice carrying a gentle tone, "I've considered your request to stay at Hogwarts over the summer, and I've decided that you may indeed remain within the castle."
Harry's eyes lit up with excitement at the prospect of spending the summer immersed in magic, honing his skills without the constraints of the Dursleys.
However, Dumbledore's next words shattered Harry's hopes as quickly as they had risen. "But, Harry, I must emphasize that Hogwarts rules dictate that no student is allowed to use magic during the summer months."
Harry's initial thrill plummeted into disappointment. The realization that he wouldn't be able to practice magic, even within the castle, weighed heavily on him. However, the resilient spirit within him refused to be easily quenched.
"Professor Dumbledore," Harry responded, determination flickering in his eyes, "I understand the rules, but there must be a way around them. "I cannot afford to waste valuable time when it comes to improving my skills, especially since Voldemort is still alive."
Dumbledore nodded sympathetically, his eyes reflecting understanding. "I understand, Harry. It's a setback, to be sure, but rules are rules, and they must be respected. However, I do not doubt that you will find other ways to occupy your time and continue your studies in a non-magical capacity."
Despite the setback, Harry's determination remained unwavering. He vowed silently to himself that he would find a way around this obstacle, determined to make the most of his summer at Hogwarts.
As Dumbledore finished explaining the restrictions on practicing magic during the summer, Harry took a moment to absorb the information. Despite the disappointment, he realized he still had other plans to consider.
"Professor Dumbledore," Harry began, his tone thoughtful, "even though I won't be living with the Malfoys, I still have to visit them, as well as other families who've extended invitations. It would be rude to reject their offers."
Dumbledore nodded understandingly. "Of course, Harry. It's important to maintain good relations with your peers and their families. However, I must insist that the duration of your visits does not exceed a few days."
Harry considered Dumbledore's words for a moment before nodding in agreement. "I understand, Professor. A few days should be sufficient for each visit."
Dumbledore smiled, pleased with Harry's understanding. "Very well, Harry. As long as you abide by this condition, you are free to visit your friends and their families over the summer."
Harry felt a sense of relief knowing that he still had the opportunity to spend time with his friends outside of Hogwarts, even if practicing magic was off-limits. With a nod of gratitude to Dumbledore, he resolved to make the most of his summer, building relationships and preparing for the challenges that lay ahead.
As the festivities of the end-of-term feast continued around him, he sought out his friends to share the news.
"Daphne, Tracey, Draco," Harry called out as he approached their table in the Slytherin section of the Great Hall. "I just spoke with Professor Dumbledore. He's allowing me to stay at Hogwarts for the summer!"
His Slytherin friends looked up at him with surprise and delight. Daphne's eyes widened in excitement, while Draco's expression shifted from curiosity to approval.
Daphne replied, a small smile gracing her lips. "We'll miss having you around during the summer."
"I'll miss you all too," Harry admitted, a pang of regret tugging at his heart. "But I promise to write to you, and I'll visit whenever I can."
Draco nodded in agreement, his usual air of arrogance softened by a genuine sense of camaraderie. "We'll hold you to that, Potter," he said with a smirk.
Harry walked towards Neville, Susann, and Hannah at the other house tables.
"Neville, Susan, Hannah," Harry began, "I know I'll be here at Hogwarts, but I promise to visit each of you during the summer."
Neville grinned appreciatively, "That sounds great, Harry. We'll be looking forward to your visit. Just owl us when you're planning to come, and we'll make sure to have some fun activities lined up."
Susan nodded in agreement, "Absolutely, Harry. It will be good to see you during the break"
Hannah chimed in, "And you better not forget to bring some Honeydukes chocolate."
Harry chuckled, "Deal, Hannah. I'll make sure to bring a stash."
With heartfelt goodbyes exchanged and promises made, Harry bid farewell to his friends.