CHAPTER 3: CONFRONTATIONS AND ALLIANCES

Soon, they arrived at Potions class, and Harry took his seat with Daphne on his right and Tracy on his left. The classroom filled as Snape entered, his cloak billowing behind him. He introduced himself and swiftly went through the class, his gaze finally settling on Harry.

"Ah, Mr. Potter," he addressed Adrian. "Our new celebrity. Tell me, what would I get if I added ground asphodel to an infusion of wormwood?"

"I don't know, a potion?" Adrian answered, while Hermione eagerly raised her hand.

"Then tell me, Potter, where would you look if I asked you to find a bezoar?"

"In your stockroom?" Hermione's hand shot up even higher.

"Ten points from your house for your overeager behavior. Now, what is the difference between monkshood and wolfsbane?" Hermione had actually stood up.

"I don't know," admitted Adrian.

"Well. Fame doesn't seem to cover everything," Snape remarked, then turned away, pointedly ignoring Hermione. His gaze shifted to Harry. "And what about you? Do you know the answers?"

"Yes, sir," nodded Harry confidently. "The first answer is the Draught of Living Death. You can find a bezoar in the stomach of a goat, and there's no difference between monkshood and wolfsbane. They are the same plant, also known as Aconitum."

Snape's cold eyes bore into Harry's, and a brief flicker of acknowledgment crossed his face. "Correct, Mr. Potter. Ten points to Slytherin for your knowledge." Harry nodded, and the class continued, with Hermione shooting a frustrated look at Harry, who, despite being a newcomer, seemed to have earned Snape's approval in a matter of moments.

"Correct," Snape nodded approvingly. Hermione sat down, looking a bit peeved that someone else had answered instead of her.

"Come on," Ron called out. "There's no way he could've known all that; he's probably cheating."

"Either that or I read the Potions book we were supposed to buy," replied Harry coolly. "All this information is in the first half of it."

"Mr. Potter is correct," said Snape. "Twenty points for Slytherin and ten points from Gryffindor for disrupting the class."

The class progressed into the practical portion, with Snape instructing them to brew potions. He inspected each student's work as he moved around the class. Hadrian Potter showcased his skills, brewing his potion with ease and collaborating effectively with Daphne Greengrass. Another unexpected sight for him was Tracy Davis working alongside Neville Longbottom.

Suddenly, a loud bang echoed from behind. Adrian Potter stood in shock, staring at Ronald Weasley covered in boils. It was evident that his potion had gone awry and exploded. The mishap brought a mix of reactions from the students, ranging from stifled laughs to gasps of surprise. Snape, however, maintained his stoic demeanor, addressing the situation with a dry remark.

"Mr. Weasley, it seems your potion has a peculiar effect. Ten points from Gryffindor for your... creativity," Snape commented, his tone conveying a blend of sarcasm and disapproval. The incident added a touch of chaos to the Potions class, leaving everyone on edge as they continued with their brewing under Snape's watchful eye.

"What are you doing, Potter?" Snape snapped. "Do you think you'd look good if he failed? Ten points from Gryffindor, take him to the infirmary now."

Adrian muttered softly before leaving, taking Ronald Weasley with him. Harry couldn't help but grin; he knew it wasn't that funny, but as a Slytherin, he had to enjoy it. It was the rules, and he didn't break rules, or at least not when they didn't bother him. At the end of the class, Professor Snape asked him to stay back as everyone left.

"I believe you're wondering why I asked you to stay behind," said Snape.

"Yes, sir, and I doubt you enjoy staring at my face, so I assume you want to talk about something," Harry replied.

"Yes," nodded Snape. "A few things, the first being why you're so proficient in Potions."

"Like I told Weasley, I read, I just didn't confine myself to the schoolbooks."

"Hmm?" Snape raised an eyebrow. "What else have you read?"

"Nothing illegal or forbidden, sir," Harry replied.

"You're not inclined to share it?" Snape considered attempting Legilimency.

"Perhaps in the future, but right now, it's my secret. But as I said, it's nothing that would break rules. Is there anything else you'd like to discuss, sir?"

"Yes," nodded Snape. "The Headmaster would like to see you in his office after your classes are done. You'll wait in the Great Hall, and I'll come to escort you, understood?"

"Yes, sir," nodded Harry. "Thank you." He left the class, leaving a pensive Snape behind.

"What did he want?" inquired Daphne, her curiosity evident as she and Tracy lingered outside the room.

"Just to inquire about me after class and to inform me that the Headmaster wanted to speak with me," Harry explained, his expression a mix of intrigue and concern.

"Why would he want to talk to you?" Daphne pondered, her eyes narrowing with suspicion.

"I can imagine a few reasons," Harry sighed, casting a glance toward the imposing doors leading to the Headmaster's office.

"Would you share them?" Tracy pressed, her eyes widening with anticipation.

"No, I need to mentally prepare because I can guarantee headaches by the end of that meeting," Harry responded cryptically, leaving his friends with a sense of foreboding.

Moments later, Harry found himself being escorted by Professor Snape for his impending meeting with the Headmaster. As they approached the grand office, he felt a sense of apprehension building. Upon entering, he discovered the Headmaster seated behind his desk, and his brother standing in front of it, an enigmatic smile playing on his lips. However, it was the majestic phoenix perched in its customary spot that truly captured his attention.

He and the bird locked eyes, a silent understanding passing between them. The phoenix widened its eyes in apparent surprise but made no vocal or physical gesture. "Smart bird," Harry thought with a wry smile, "definitely knows."

"Ah, Harry," Dumbledore greeted with a grandfatherly smile, his eyes twinkling with wisdom and mystery.

"It's Hadrian, sir. I don't recall permitting you to address me informally," Harry replied stoically, his face revealing little emotion.

"Ah, Mr. Potter, you may not know this, but I was quite close to your parents," Dumbledore stated, attempting to establish a connection.

"Perhaps you were," Harry said, his skepticism evident, "but it doesn't change the fact that I've allowed you to address me informally. As the Chief Warlock, it wouldn't do for you to forget your etiquette. So, from now on, refer to me only as Mr. Potter."

Dumbledore's smile faltered for a fraction of a second before returning, acknowledging Harry's request. "Ah, if you insist, Mr. Potter."

"I've been wondering how you're finding the classes," Dumbledore redirected the conversation, as if he hadn't heard Harry's formality.

"I believe I'm doing fine," Harry responded, keeping his composure. "The teachers seem impressed, and I'm enjoying myself. Although I am curious, why me?"

"I apologize, Mr. Potter?" Dumbledore queried, his tone feigning innocence, yet Harry sensed an undercurrent of something more.

"Why was I summoned to your office, and why are you monitoring my classes? As far as I know, I haven't gotten into trouble or done anything worthy of being sent to the Headmaster's office," Harry questioned, his voice firm and composed.

"Don't worry, Mr. Potter," Dumbledore nonchalantly waved his hand. "You're not in trouble. It was just me attempting to have a conversation. The real reason I had you summoned here is to ask a few questions, the first of which is certainly evident. Have you met your brother?"

"We have met," replied Adrian, joining the conversation, "but I believe there's been a misunderstanding, sir."

"What misunderstanding are you referring to?" inquired Dumbledore, his eyes keenly studying the brothers.

"My brother can't be a Slytherin," asserted Adrian. "The Sorting Hat must have made a mistake; he should be resorted and placed in Gryffindor." Snape seemed about to say something, but Harry intervened.

"No, thank you, I'm fine in Slytherin," Harry interjected, his decision unwavering.

"But why?! Why in the world would you want to be in Slytherin?" Adrian pressed, genuine confusion etched on his face.

"We get our own rooms," Harry shrugged casually. "Plus, I don't have issues with Slytherins, so I don't really see the downside."

"Mr. Potter, surely you would want to join your brother in Gryffindor?" Dumbledore suggested, a gentle persuasion in his tone. "I'm sure it would make your parents proud."

"If my parents were anything like the people you describe, they'd be proud no matter which house I was in," Harry responded with a hint of defiance.

"I can't believe it," remarked Adrian, shaking his head. "My brother, a slimy snake."

"Snakes aren't slimy, they're actually quite smooth," Harry corrected casually.

"Whatever," Adrian dismissed the distinction. "So, where have you been all these years?"

"At home, what about you?" Harry inquired.

"I lived with Dumbledore," Adrian said proudly, momentarily forgetting that Harry hadn't really answered the question.

"In the castle?" Harry sought clarification, his curiosity piqued.

"No, I lived in one of his houses. The house-elves raised me," Adrian explained.

"So he just left you there?" Harry probed further.

"No! He visited me occasionally," Adrian clarified.

"What magic did he teach you?" Harry asked with genuine curiosity, but Adrian remained silent.

"He didn't teach you any magic?!" Harry exclaimed, a mix of surprise and disbelief in his voice.

"No, but it's not necessary anyway. I'm the Boy-Who-Lived. I don't need half the training others do. Besides, Dumbledore gave me a lot of money and got me the best brooms," Adrian boasted.

"How nice of him," Harry remarked sarcastically.

"What's your problem?!" Adrian retorted.

"I have several, do you need a specific one?" Harry quipped.

"Mr. Potter," Dumbledore interjected, attempting to ease the tension. "I would have thought you'd be happy to see your brother after all these years apart."

"It's true," said Harry, "but from what I've seen of him, I doubt Mother and Father would be very proud."

"You what?!" Adrian clenched his fist, his frustration and anger bubbling to the surface.

"Father might have been a bit arrogant when he was younger, but he didn't go around acting like Merlin's gift to the world," Harry calmly countered. "Most of his arrogance could be earned; despite all his mess in school, he was brilliant. He worked hard. Mum, too. Since I've met you, all you've done is strut around like a peacock, demanding respect. You don't even try in class."

"I saved the world from Voldemort!" Adrian retorted defensively.

"Did you? Maybe Mother defeated him and perished in the process? Have you ever thought of that? Or maybe Mother or Father did something that halted the curse? Or maybe you were just a coincidence of many decisions. The only witnesses to the actual event were our parents, you, me, and Voldemort. I doubt you defeated him through sheer will or power."

"You're just jealous," Adrian shouted in frustration.

"Jealous?" Harry looked amused. "Jealous of a boy enjoying the fame he got for something he doesn't even remember? Are you always this insightful or just for me?"

Adrian, overcome by anger, lunged at Harry, who simply leaned back and stretched out his foot. Adrian stumbled and fell, landing on his face. The confrontation escalated, leaving the air charged with tension.

"Mr. Potter!" snapped Snape before Dumbledore could say anything. "That'll be fifty points from Gryffindor and a week of detention for attacking a fellow student. Come, Hadrian, I believe this meeting is concluded."

Snape, displaying a stern demeanor, promptly escorted Harry out before anything else could be said. In that moment, Snape harbored two distinct thoughts. The first, driven by his predisposition against the younger twin, aligned with his opinion of Adrian. However, the second thought acknowledged how Harry was starting to earn his respect. Though he wouldn't readily admit it, Snape found himself somewhat pleased that the boy was one of his Slytherins. The journey continued until they arrived at the entrance to the Slytherin common room.

"I must admit, Potter," Snape said, breaking the silence. "I was rather impressed by you in that meeting; you managed to upset him and get him into trouble, just like a true Slytherin. Despite my feelings toward your brother, you're one of my serpents. It's my duty and responsibility to aid you if you need it."

With those words, Snape turned and walked away, leaving Harry to reflect on the unexpected acknowledgment from the formidable professor. The corridors echoed with the footsteps of the Potions Master, and the enigmatic atmosphere of Hogwarts embraced them once more.

"Harry," Snape heard the boy's voice and turned to see Harry Potter smiling at him. "You can call me Harry if you wish, sir." The corner of Snape's lips twitched slightly, but otherwise, he did nothing, turning around and walking away.


Harry uttered the password and entered the common room. He found the girls in a corner and sat down beside them.

"How was your meeting?" asked Daphne, her curiosity evident.

"Alright, Dumbledore annoyed me, and so did my brother, who tried to attack me," said Harry casually, as if it were just another mundane occurrence.

"What?!" exclaimed Tracy, her eyes widening with disbelief.

"Yes, I irritated him to the point where he tried to physically assault me right in the Headmaster's office," Harry continued with nonchalance.

"Damn lion," sighed Daphne. "What happened?"

"I made him stumble, and he fell on his face," Harry explained with a casual shrug. "Then Snape deducted points from him and gave him detention before I left. What about you? Anything interesting happened while I was away?"

"Just Malfoy, he's an idiot," waved off Tracy.

"What has he done this time?" Harry sighed, preparing himself for another tale of Draco's antics.

"He keeps bothering Daphne," replied Tracy, frustration apparent in her voice.

"It's okay," said Daphne, a calm assurance in her tone. "I can handle Malfoy."

"Good," nodded Harry. "But the moment he crosses the line, just say the word, and I'll step in." Daphne smiled, appreciating Harry's understanding and support. Most boys would have gone ballistic, but it was refreshing to have someone who believed she could take care of herself.

"Greengrass," a familiar voice interrupted.

"Malfoy," she spat.

"Come now, how do you speak to your future husband?" Malfoy taunted.

"I'm not marrying you!"

"Of course you are," he laughed, "as if you could find anyone better than me."

"I'm not sure," said Harry with a sly grin. "I've heard the giant squid in the lake is single again." Daphne couldn't help but smile at Harry's comment, while Tracy burst into laughter. Malfoy stared at him with a mixture of annoyance and disbelief.

"No one was talking to you, Potter," Malfoy snapped, attempting to regain control of the situation.

"The girls were," said Harry coolly, "before you came and interrupted our conversation like an attention-seeking child."

"Stop insulting me; you're not half as clever as you think, Potter," Malfoy retorted with a scowl.

"Perhaps, but even if that were true, I'd still be twice as clever as you on your best day," Harry replied, unfazed. "If you don't mind, I was having a nice conversation with two lovely ladies before you barged in. So, disappear, Malfoy."

"You can't dismiss me like I'm some kind of house-elf!" Malfoy protested indignantly, his pride wounded.

Harry raised an eyebrow. "Well, if you insist on sticking around, maybe I'll have to fetch a sock." The corner of Harry's mouth curled into a mischievous smile as he glanced over at Daphne and Tracy. The two girls exchanged amused glances, clearly entertained by the exchange.

Malfoy, realizing he wasn't going to get the reaction he desired, huffed and turned away, muttering under his breath. Harry's victorious smirk lingered for a moment before he resumed his conversation with the girls, leaving Malfoy to sulk in the background.

"Fine," sighed Harry. "I'll dismiss you like some sort of dog instead; it's more accurate, I suppose. Now shoo. Go away, shoo." Daphne had a hand over her mouth while Tracy tried to stifle her laughter.

"This isn't over, Potter!" spat Draco defiantly.

"Of course not, we're living in the same dorm for the next seven years, you idiot," said Harry. "Human years, by the way, Draco, not dog years," Harry added as Draco growled before getting to his feet and storming off.

"Harry," Daphne smiled at him, "you do realize that neither I nor Tracy are letting you go now, right?"

"Yes," nodded Tracy, "you're like our own anti-Malfoy charm."

"Well, I am quite magical," said Harry, pretending to brush dust off his shoulders, "but if we're honest, I do it as much for my own entertainment as for yours."

"Our hero," grinned Tracy.

"No," Harry shook his head. "I'm not a hero." The trio shared a moment of camaraderie, realizing that sometimes, a bit of humor and mischief could be the perfect remedy for the challenges Hogwarts threw their way.

"No hero, just a wizard with a penchant for keeping things interesting," Harry added, his eyes glinting mischievously.

As they chatted and laughed, the common room's atmosphere lightened. The trio, bound by an unexpected camaraderie, felt the weight of the day lift from their shoulders. The fire crackled in the hearth, casting a warm glow over the scene.

"Speaking of heroes," Daphne teased, "I heard you managed to upset not just your brother but also the great Albus Dumbledore."

Harry chuckled, "Well, it seems I have a talent for ruffling feathers. But Dumbledore shouldn't be exempt from scrutiny. He's not the infallible figure everyone makes him out to be."

Daphne and Tracy exchanged curious glances, realizing that Harry was not just an intriguing presence but also harbored his own reservations about the revered Headmaster.

"So, what's your plan, Harry?" Tracy asked, breaking the brief silence. "Survive seven years with us and fend off Malfoy?"

"Survival sounds like a good start," Harry replied with a smirk. "As for Malfoy, well, let's just say I've had practice dealing with pests."

Their laughter echoed in the common room, creating a bond that would serve as a stronghold against the challenges awaiting them at Hogwarts. Little did they know that their intertwined fates would lead to adventures, friendships, and perhaps uncovering hidden truths in the magical world.

The days that followed were filled with a blend of magical studies, pranks, and shared laughter. Harry, Daphne, and Tracy became inseparable, navigating the complexities of Hogwarts life together. They formed an unspoken alliance against the quirks of their fellow students, the challenges posed by their classes, and, of course, the persistent presence of Draco Malfoy.

As the trio forged deeper connections, they discovered shared interests and ambitions. Late-night discussions in the common room delved into magical theories, the history of wizardry, and the peculiarities of their professors. Daphne, with her sharp wit, and Tracy, with her encyclopedic knowledge, complemented Harry's innate curiosity and quick thinking.

One day, as they strolled through the Hogwarts grounds, the topic of Dumbledore's intentions resurfaced.

"I can't shake the feeling that Dumbledore has something up his sleeve," Harry mused.

"You're not alone in that suspicion," Daphne replied. "He seems to have an uncanny ability to know more than he lets on."

Tracy chimed in, "And the way he watches everyone, like a puppet master pulling the strings."

"I don't trust him," Harry admitted. "There's more to his agenda than meets the eye. I just need to figure out what it is."

Their shared concern created a new bond among them, a mutual determination to uncover the mysteries lurking in the shadows of Hogwarts.

As their second year approached, rumors circulated about a mysterious chamber within the castle and a creature said to be unleashed. The trio's curiosity was piqued, and they found themselves drawn into the unfolding mystery.

In the depths of Hogwarts, where secrets whispered through stone corridors, Harry, Daphne, and Tracy would soon find themselves entangled in a web of magic, friendship, and the unpredictable twists of destiny.

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