Weeks had passed since Harry's arrival at the House of Hearth. He sat on a plush couch beside Fiora, the one who had shown him around when he first arrived. She had been his guide and confident, patiently helping him adjust to this new life. Despite Harry's initial hesitance to open, Fiora's persistence paid off, and he gradually began trusting her and, eventually, the rest of the family.
They sat together, a cozy fire crackling in the hearth.
"So… Harry, how has it been here in the House of Hearth?" Fiora asked, her tone warm.
"It's been wonderful!" Harry replied with genuine enthusiasm. He smiled brightly, clearly more at ease than when he first arrived. But even in the firelight, Fiora noticed something lingering in his hesitation and worry.
"Harry, what's wrong?" she asked softly.
"No… nothing's wrong," he said quickly, shaking his head. But the slight falter in his voice told a different story.
Fiora leaned in a bit, her gaze was steady but gentle. "Harry, we're family here. We support each other. You can tell me. Take your time if you need to."
Harry fidgeted, looking away nervously. After a long pause, he finally spoke, though his voice was barely above a whisper. "C-Can… I call you 'Big Sis'? Or maybe just 'Sis'?"
Fiora blinked in surprise before a soft giggle escaped her lips.
Harry flushed and grumbled, his face turning red. "It's not funny…"
"Then tell me why," she said, her smile never faltering.
"Well… um… Lydney and Lynette are siblings to Freminet, right? And… you were there for me. I kind of see you as a 'big sister' more than anyone else here," he admitted, his voice timid but sincere.
Fiora's smile widened, and before Harry could react, she pulled him into a warm, tight hug. "Of course, Harry. I'd be honored to be your 'big sister.' And I promise to treat my adorable little brother just like family—whether you like it or not!"
Harry hugged her back, laughing. "Thanks! But I'm not adorable or cute!" he protested, though his grin betrayed his words.
"Whatever you say, little brother," Fiora teased, her tone playful. She ruffled his hair mischievously, causing Harry to squirm in her embrace.
"Stop it!" Harry cried, half-laughing, half-annoyed, as he tried to wriggle free.
But Fiora only tightened her grip. "Not a chance," she said, laughing at his futile attempts to escape.
The commotion soon attracted the attention of others in the House. Several siblings peeked in to see what was happening, only to find Harry trapped in a playful hug.
"Help me!" Harry called out, his face red with embarrassment.
Instead of helping, the spectators laughed and commented among themselves before leaving—though a few of the younger siblings decided to join the fun, piling onto the couch and hugging Harry too.
"Traitors!" Harry groaned though the smile on his face betrayed his enjoyment.
The older siblings looked on, chuckling at the scene. Harry's embarrassment only grew, but deep down, he felt warmth—an undeniable sense of belonging in this strange but loving family.
-=BEAK=-
Harry opened his eyes, waking up from his dream. He looked up at the four-poster wooden ceiling.
"Right… I'm at Hogwarts," he murmured to himself.
He got up and noticed his clothes were already clean and ready for him. The first thing he did was head to the bathroom in the guest room to take a bath. Afterward, he got dressed in the clothes he had worn yesterday, which had been thoroughly cleaned. He was pleased to find that all his tools were still intact, even the ones hidden in secret pockets.
Satisfied, he left his room and headed to the Great Hall to grab some food, then set his plan in motion.
-=BREAK=-
Harry finally arrived at the Great Hall to grab some food. The moment he stepped in, almost every student turned to look at him. He could feel their stares, hear the whispers, and see the curiosity in their eyes. Trying his best to ignore it, he scanned the room. The three schools' students were all present, sitting together for breakfast. Hogwarts students were grouped according to their house colors, while Beauxbatons and Durmstrang students mingled freely, occasionally sitting with others.
As Harry walked in, his thoughts drifted. I'd much rather be back in Teyvat, at the House of the Hearth, having breakfast with my family. Not… this. The idea of mingling with strangers who clearly had their own assumptions about him made his stomach churn. He didn't want to be here, nor did he have any intention of forming connections. After all, he'd only arrived last night and was already thrust into the spotlight.
He made his way through the Great Hall, searching for the farthest, most inconspicuous seat. His instincts and training echoed in his mind: "Keep your cards close." "Always be on guard, even in so-called 'safe' places." Though he doubted anyone would attack him outright, he stayed alert.
To everyone's surprise, Harry walked over to the Slytherin table and sat down. Whispers erupted immediately across the hall. Choosing the Slytherin table of all places was bound to raise eyebrows. Harry ignored them and focused on his food, selecting a balanced meal and eating quietly.
From the corner of his eye, Harry noticed movement. A group of Slytherin students, led by an older student wearing a prefect badge, was heading toward him.
"Harry Potter," the prefect said, his voice curt. "You're sitting at the wrong table, Potter."
Harry finished chewing, swallowed, and replied calmly, "Why is that?" His eyes flicked briefly around the room, assessing potential exits or, in the worst-case scenario, preparing for an attack.
"This table is for Slytherin students and—occasionally—our guests. We can deduct points from your house for this."
Harry smirked slightly. "Then you should know… I don't belong to any house. I'm not enrolled in Hogwarts."
The prefect blinked, caught off guard. Around the hall, students began whispering louder. "He's not in a house?" "So, where does he belong then?"
"That doesn't mean you can sit here," the prefect finally said, regaining his composure.
Harry sighed, feeling a mix of amusement and irritation. "Then enlighten me," he said dryly. "I'm new here. Out of the loop. Let's say I'm unfamiliar with this 'nation's' politics and your educational system." He leaned back slightly, signaling his complete lack of concern. "And please… call me Snezhevich."
"Are you joking, Potter?" the prefect snapped. "Fine!"
What followed was a heated and overly detailed explanation of Hogwarts house politics, British wizarding society, and Slytherin's infamous reputation. The prefect even delved into Voldemort and the supposed ties between Harry and the dark wizard, though his tone was dripping with house pride.
Harry listened patiently but found the explanation overly biased. Once the prefect finished, Harry spoke. "Thank you. Now, let me remind you of something." His voice carried a sharp edge. "Hogwarts is hosting the Triwizard Tournament. This school has international guests from Beauxbatons and Durmstrang—students who will carry impressions of Hogwarts and Britain back to their countries. What do you think they'll say about your actions today? That your 'house pride' is more important than hospitality?"
The prefect froze, glancing around the hall. He noticed how many students—and even teachers—were now watching the exchange.
Harry smirked, lowering his voice. "You're making yourself—and your house—look foolish in front of the other schools. Perhaps you should reconsider."
After a moment of tense silence, the prefect's face reddened. "Very well… Potter." He gestured to his group, signaling them to leave.
As they retreated, Harry returned to his meal, unfazed. The hall was abuzz with whispers about what had just happened. Many were impressed by Harry's calm, diplomatic approach, especially how he managed to subtly put the Slytherins in their place without resorting to conflict.
The teachers, too, had taken notice. While some were annoyed by their students' behavior, others were impressed by Harry's cleverness. One teacher, in particular, couldn't help but think, How very Slytherin of him.
Once Harry finished his meal, he sat for a moment, deep in thought. He considered exploring Hogwarts further but wasn't sure where to start. Perhaps the library? Or should he ask someone for directions?
Before he could decide, a voice interrupted his thoughts.
"Mr. Snezhevich."
Harry turned to see a stern-looking woman approaching. She appeared to be in her late forties or early sixties, her posture exuding authority.
"Yes?" he replied. "Ms…?"
"Professor Minerva McGonagall," she introduced herself. "Deputy Headmistress of Hogwarts and Head of Gryffindor House."
"Ah. Professor," Harry said with a polite nod. "What can I do for you?"
"Professor Dumbledore has asked me to escort you to Gringotts so you can access your vault, withdraw money, and take care of any shopping you may need. Additionally, I'll be giving you a tour of Hogwarts."
Harry blinked, surprised. "My vault? Professor, I'm sorry, but what vault?"
McGonagall raised an eyebrow. "Your parents left you a vault. It contains funds for your education as well as your inheritance when you come of age."
Harry stared at her, dumbfounded. "I'm sorry—what?"
-=BREAK=-
Harry was very confused as to why Professor McGonagall took him to a large fireplace, big enough for a person to stand inside, in her office, rather than going through the entrance of the school. He asked, "Why are we by the fireplace in your office, Professor?"
"Well, Snezhvich , we are going to Diagon Alley using Floo powder."
"Floo Powder?"
"Using Floo Powder for the first time, I see. Pay close attention. Take a pinch of Floo powder from the pot, step into the fireplace, and throw the powder down at your feet. Speak the name of your destination clearly and with conviction. The fireplace will instantly ignite with green flames, transporting you safely to your desired location within the Floo Network. Do not panic; stay within the flames and keep your elbows tucked in. Remember, mispronunciation can lead to an entirely different destination, so speak clearly, and you'll be on your way without incident." Professor McGonagall explained, like the strict yet patient teacher she was. Then she added, "I'll go first to show you how it works." She walked to the fireplace, grabbed some Floo powder, and said, "Diagon Alley," dropping the powder onto the flames. The green flames surrounded her, and she disappeared.
Harry was a bit amazed by the transportation, but he groaned a bit as it reminded him of his 'kidnapping' incident. He quickly pushed the thought aside and grabbed a pinch of Floo powder, the same amount Professor McGonagall had used. He shouted, "Diagon Alley," and threw the powder onto his feet. Flames burst from the fireplace, surrounding him and leaving nothing behind.
-=BREAK=-
Harry is greeted in some sort of pub with a dark and shabby design, featuring a bar and a number of tables in the shadows of the corners. Even though the design is dark and shabby, it provides a great atmosphere for people to enjoy their drinks and meals. Harry sees Prof. McGonagall waiting for him by the fireplace.
"Where are we, Professor?"
"We are at the Leaky Cauldron. It's a pub and inn."
Harry looked around in confusion. Before he could say anything, he heard the professor's voice. "This way. Please stick close; you've already made quite a stir." He followed her to a wall, and she wasn't wrong. He saw a newspaper headline reading, "Potter Has Returned!" and part of the newspaper showed moving pictures.
Prof. McGonagall tapped some bricks on the wall, which began to move, opening a path. But Harry immediately stepped back, his posture ready for battle! His dominant hand moved behind him, flames appearing as he prepared to defend himself.
Prof. McGonagall looked at Harry after the bricks stopped moving, shocked to see him ready to fight, flames in his hand. She said, "Mr. Snezhvich ?" in surprise.
"Oh…" Harry quickly extinguished the flames from his hand with his Vision ability. "Let's continue, Professor." He stepped forward as if nothing had happened, while looking around. Prof. McGonagall noticed something she had never seen before, and she could tell that the flames were very different from normal magical flames. She followed him for a bit before leading him down the right path.
"Then, welcome to Diagon Alley. The shopping area for the wizarding world, where Hogwarts students can purchase necessary supplies."
-=BREAK=-
While walking through the Alley, it was lively, full of people shopping and selling. Harry wouldn't lie—he was amazed by each store and the people selling goods in the Alley.
Harry and Prof. McGonagall soon arrived at Gringotts bank. Harry didn't expect to see anything too different and said, "So... the whole British magical community's bank is run by goblins? Is it safe?" as they stepped inside. He saw multiple goblins—working as bank tellers and guards—while noticing there were only a few humans inside, talking to goblins.
Harry briefly thought of hilichurls but quickly realized goblins were much smarter and shorter than standard hilichurls. Then he thought, That might be insulting to the goblins. They're a different species, with their own way of life. Harry had encountered a few hilichurls during his 'training' and explorations, both with and without permission.
"Yes, Mr. Snezhvich . The bank is the safest place to store all wizard money, besides Hogwarts. This way," Prof. McGonagall led Harry to one of the counters where a goblin was working on a book. She said, "Excuse me, Mr. Harry Potter wishes to make a withdrawal." The goblin stopped and looked at her.
Harry thought about rebuking Prof. McGonagall, knowing that his fortune was under his biological parents' last name, but he didn't say anything.
The goblin stopped looking at Prof. McGonagall and turned his attention to Harry, who simply nodded in respect. The goblin leaned over the counter and asked, "And does Mr. Harry Potter have his key?"
"Yes, it's right here." Prof. McGonagall pulled a key from her robes and presented a golden key, which made the goblin stop leaning over the counter. The goblin took the key and said, "This way..." He motioned for Harry and Prof. McGonagall to follow him deeper into the bank.
-=BREAK=-
Harry had never experienced anything like riding the cart! The cart ride was a wild, fast-paced journey through the underground vaults, with sharp turns, steep drops, and high speeds. He won't lie—this was the most thrilling experience he had ever had. Meanwhile, Prof. McGonagall wasn't enjoying the speed as much, holding onto the cart for dear life, though she knew she wouldn't be thrown off.
The cart finally stopped at their destination, and the goblin said, "Vault 687." Harry exclaimed, "Whew! That was quite a ride! Are we going to do it again on the way back?" There was excitement in his voice as he looked toward the goblin, his face showing pure enthusiasm. The goblin got out of the cart and said, "Lamp, please." Harry quickly grabbed a lamp and handed it to the goblin.
The goblin walked toward the vault while Harry and Prof. McGonagall got out of the cart. Once they were close, the goblin said, "Key, please." Prof. McGonagall handed the key to the goblin while Harry held the lamp for him. The goblin inserted the key into the vault's keyhole.
The goblin stepped back, allowing the vault to slowly open. Harry was shocked by the sight of a vast amount of gold coins, columns of silver, and heaps of little bronze coins inside his vault. Harry asked, "Is there more?"
The goblin simply replied, "No, this is the only Potter vault."
Harry thought for a moment, stepping inside to grab some coins, then stopped. "Why are there three types of coins? Does each coin have a different value?"
The goblin sighed and explained the wizarding world's currency system: Galleons, Sickles, and Knuts, and their value in relation to Galleons. Harry understood and asked, "How much would it cost me to open another vault?"
"Why, Mr. Potter?" the goblin asked.
Harry replied as he stepped out of the vault, his pockets now filled with Galleons, Sickles, and Knuts. "Let's just say, in the future, there are things I want to keep well-guarded, where no one can access them. For security and protection," he said with a smile.
The goblin considered this for a moment and then said, "Then perhaps a High-Security Vault, which mostly holds family treasures, complete with traps and curses."
"Then maybe in the future, we can do business opening a high-security vault," Harry said with a purposeful smile, something he had planned for the future. The smile was enigmatic, and neither Prof. McGonagall nor the goblin could tell if it was for good or ill.
-=BREAK=-
When they left Gringotts Bank, Prof. McGonagall handed the key to Harry, making him the rightful owner of the vault.
"So, what now, Professor?"
"Now… we can explore a bit in Diagon Alley and buy some things that you're going to need."
"You know, Professor, I don't plan on staying. I'm planning to leave once this whole tournament is done."
"Of course. I understand, Mr. Snezhvich , but I'd suggest you adjust your time while you're here. Things like clothes, books for research you might need before returning home, potions, and so forth. As a professor, I hope you'll properly prepare for your magic."
"Of course. So, where to?"
"To get you a wand."
"A wand? Professor, I already have an alternative to a wand."
"Such as?"
"My catalyst, which I use through the 'gift' from the gods." Harry showed his catalyst, which was unlike any other—black and red, matching his outfit. Prof. McGonagall had a strange expression on her face as she heard the words "gift" and "gods" and said, "Wait… then how are you using your magic?"
"Oh… I've been using my hand all the time since I arrived at my new home. I think I've greatly improved. Rarely through my mind, which rarely works."
Prof. McGonagall was shocked to hear that Harry had been using his hand and mind—something quite rare! She realized this might prove that Harry could be an even more powerful wizard but also thought that Harry still needed a wand.
"Then let's just shop around for what you need while you're here—potion ingredients, books, and so forth."
"Ingredients?"
"Yes, since the other schools have taken part in the classes. I would recommend you take part as well, as you might 'learn' while you're here—potions, charms, transfiguration, and many more. Might as well find a way back home."
Harry thought for a moment while they walked through the alley, before heading to stores to buy potion ingredients, luggage for his personal use (even though it wasn't for Hogwarts, since he wasn't a student), plenty of books that he found curious and could use to get him home, and some clothes. He didn't particularly like the clothes he found, but he was able to get something custom-made for him with good quality and protection. He also considered looking into Muggle clothing.
Harry found clothes specifically created for Hogwarts students, but he was able to find one that suited him well, providing good quality and protection while still resembling his usual style. He didn't mind paying the high price, even showing a large amount of Galleons up front. He knew it wouldn't meet his exact standards, but he couldn't be picky about what he learned from his type of upbringing. He was informed that the clothes would be delivered to Hogwarts.
Before heading back to the Leaky Cauldron, Harry persuaded Prof. McGonagall, saying, "Professor, what about exploring a bit? I'm curious about what the Alley has to offer, and I'd like to enjoy what sights it has to give me." Prof. McGonagall agreed. Harry explored further, discovering how stores sold their items just outside the buildings, owls used as messengers, magical mirrors for two-way communication, and much more. He also noticed a certain alley that caught his attention, making mental notes to return later to buy from there.
Eventually, Harry traveled back to Hogwarts through Floo Powder, but rather than going through her office, he came back to a different fireplace. He made a note of this.
-=BREAK=-
Harry and Prof. McGonagall take the floo powder back to Hogwarts arriving back to her office. Time has wasted for Harry for going to bank, going around the Alley to buy 'school supplies' which Harry truly disagrees with, but Professor reasoning might help since to travel back home! And of course, further exploring around the Alley! The potential he decided to came back with or without permission he would not stop!
"I think, we are done. Professor." Harry said holding his trunk closely when travelling.
"Not yet. Mr. Snezhvich ."
"What do you mean?"
"There's one thing, we have to do."
Harry blinks a moment and knowing what professor will is implying and said, "You're going to tour me around Hogwarts so that I can walk around easily as well decided to join any of classes?"
"Yes, and don't worry about your trunk. Someone will pick it up for and place it your room."
Harry is doubting at the last part and simply nodded. The last part of his planned schedule is going to take part, and his trunk will be room while staying at Hogwarts.
-=BREAK=-
Harry and Prof. McGonagall toured Hogwarts, starting with her classroom.
"This is the Transfiguration classroom, my class," she said. "Transfiguration is the art of turning one thing into another, changing the form and appearance of an object by altering its very molecular structure."
Harry blinked. "Molecular structure? This might be a dangerous class!" he thought, but he also understood the potential benefits of learning Transfiguration.
The classroom looked typical for Hogwarts, with rows of tables and chairs. At the back, there was a large table and chair for the professor.
They continued the tour, walking to the next classroom. As they passed through the hallways and courtyard, they saw students either chatting or reading by the windows. Among them was a brown-haired girl wearing a Gryffindor robe.
"Prof. McGonagall! Why don't we have class today? It was just announced this morning! I've been trying to find you in my spare time," she called out.
"Ms. Granger," the professor replied, "I have an appointment with Mr. Snezhvich to take care of matters he'll need while staying at Hogwarts. Don't worry, my class will resume tomorrow."
"Thank you, Professor," said the girl, who Harry now recognized as Hermione Granger. She nodded and walked off, meeting a red-haired boy close to her age, also wearing a Gryffindor robe. Harry overheard the red-haired boy say, "What was that about? We have no class, so why should you ask her?"
"Who was that, Professor?" Harry asked.
"That was Hermione Granger, a fourth-year student in my house. She's one of my proudest students. Shall we continue?"
Harry simply nodded.
They explored more of Hogwarts, passing various classrooms such as Potions, Charms, and Defense Against the Dark Arts. Professor McGonagall pointed out the locations of each class, including Herbology and more.
One location stood out to Harry: the Hogwarts Library. It was larger than he'd imagined, spanning multiple floors and stretching up to the roof.
"Here we are! The library at Hogwarts. Perhaps you'll find the answers you're looking for here," Professor McGonagall said as they walked inside, where Madam Pince greeted them reluctantly after being informed by the professor.
Harry noticed a section marked "Restricted," walled off and separate from the rest of the library.
"What's over there?" Harry asked, pointing.
Professor McGonagall glanced in that direction. "That's the Restricted Section of the library."
"Why is it restricted?" Harry asked.
"The Restricted Section contains texts on dangerous and complex magic. To protect you, access is limited. We may allow you to borrow books from there, but only with proper guidance. These restrictions are for your safety."
"Is it possible to enter the Restricted Section?" Harry asked.
"No. You must get permission from a teacher to borrow books from there," she replied.
"But how will I know which book I need if I can't see them? It'd be easier to access the books myself," Harry argued.
"No, Mr. Snezhvich ," Professor McGonagall replied firmly. "Even with your reasoning, it's for your own safety. You may look around the library for now and find the answers you can."
Harry gritted his teeth, frustrated, but he had to admit she had a point. Still, he knew his only way home might be through the Restricted Section, as the other books wouldn't give him the answers he needed. He reluctantly asked, "Do the Restricted Section books also include foreign languages or even ancient languages? Just curious, Professor."
"Yes, the Restricted Section holds some of those texts. It used to be accessible to students, but after a few incidents where students nearly harmed themselves trying to read them, they were moved there."
"Is it possible for me to see them?" Harry asked, his curiosity piqued.
"No, Mr. Snezhvich ," she replied. "We can't take that risk again. I'd recommend you focus on surviving the tournament for now. I know you're searching for a way home, but I don't think those books will hold the answers you're looking for. Shall we continue the tour?"
Harry sighed, feeling more annoyed than ever, but he agreed to continue.
As they neared the end of the tour, some Hogwarts students approached, trying to persuade Harry to transfer to the school.
-=BREAK=-
Harry lay on the bed, still wearing the clothes he had worn while out with Professor McGonagall. It had been an eventful and adventurous day, one full of unexpected twists. He wouldn't deny that.
He knew he had a way to leave the castle undetected, and with the fortune from his biological parents, the clothes he bought (which were 'okay' by his standards), and the materials he reluctantly agreed to purchase, he felt he was at least a step closer to improving his magical abilities.
Then, there was the tour of Hogwarts itself—so many rooms, so many areas he couldn't quite remember, but there were a few places that stood out. He thought about certain classes he might attend, but the library was the one that truly captivated his thoughts.
As Harry lay back, his eyelids grew heavy. A tired yawn escaped him—he hadn't expected to be so exhausted. He didn't even bother to change into more comfortable sleepwear. Sleep overtook him quickly, and soon he drifted off.
Unbeknownst to him, a package had been placed on the desk in his room.
-=BREAK=-
In the office of the Headmaster Dumbledore. Dumbledore is sitting on his chair and being the powerful wizard not doing anything even paperwork looking at Prof. McGonagall and said "How was your travel with Harry?"
"It was interesting that you imagine. Dumbledore."
"Oh, do tell…"
Prof. McGonagall summary much of happening in the Diagon Alley like how Harry reacted with when opening to the Diagon Alley, discovering that Harry is wandless magic and the way of form how he does his magic and as well 'gift' from the god as such minor like buying clothes as such.
Dumbledore is stroking his beard after what he heard. He didn't expect quite a shocking relevance to him about Harry. He's thinking deeply about what should he do and knowing Harry what he desire.
He thought there's someone who might help him which soon answers from his office fireplace to talk to him.
Finally Done! I was planning to publish this chapter before New year but due to work but so much work puts me less than work on this.
And apology for what I put in a chapter and quickly pull it out since something is wrong when I published since I have to make final corrections.
Then some review responses a bit.
To Kirbycarlos510, No I don't have update schedule since I have work, personal projects (Creating my own game) and other stuff. A bit of joggling here.
To Gerginsxy, Ghosty answers your questions which provide you the long and short answers. Thanks, Ghostly for providing much information and saving me time to make this answer for him/her. I'll just copy and paste the answer for you.
"Go to YouTube and watch the Genshin Impact Arlecchino Story Quest then watch the "The Song Burning in the Embers" animation. The short answer, the previous Fatui Harbinger in charge of the orphanage used the title of "Mother" and her management was draconian, especially since she had apparently given several children from the orphanage to her fellow Harbinger, Dottore, as test subjects for his experiments. Thus, the Title of "Mother" was stained & sullied because of that memory of the past."