บท 54: Hogwarts Express
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Finally, the day arrived. Harry, with his belongings neatly packed, including the now-shrunken Enchanted Haven Briefcase, stood at King's Cross Station, looking for Platform 9¾. The hidden platform, accessible only to those in the know, was a gateway to the magical world he was about to join.
With Petunia accompanying him, Harry approached the seemingly solid barrier between platforms nine and ten. There was a palpable sense of anticipation in the air. As they passed through the magical barrier, the sight that greeted them was nothing short of wondrous. The Hogwarts Express, with its gleaming scarlet engine and billowing steam, stood majestically, ready to embark on its journey to the magical school. Harry's eyes sparkled with excitement, mirroring the same wonder that had been in his mother Lily's eyes decades ago.
Petunia, standing beside him, was equally awestruck. It was her third time witnessing this marvel. The first time, she had been with Lily, her younger sister, both of them wide-eyed with wonder. The second time, the emotions were tinged with jealousy and a sense of loss as she watched Lily depart into a world where she couldn't follow. Now, years later, she was here again, not with envy but with pride and excitement for her nephew, Harry.
As they took in the bustling platform, crowded with students and their families, owls hooting in their cages, and cats peeking out of their carriers, Petunia's gaze softened. She turned to Harry and said with a nostalgic smile, "Go on, Harry. Your mother used to say it's a pain in the bum to find an empty compartment. Best hurry and find a good spot."
Harry nodded, understanding the practical wisdom in her words. He turned to face her, the emotions of the moment welling up inside him. This was not just a journey to school; it was the beginning of a new chapter in his life, a step towards understanding his heritage and embracing his true identity.
He stepped forward and wrapped his arms around Petunia in a warm, heartfelt hug. "Thank you, Aunt Petunia," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "For everything."
Petunia returned the hug, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "You take care, Harry," she whispered back. "And remember, you're always welcome home."
As they parted, Petunia took a moment to observe her nephew. Harry, once a frail and unassuming boy, had undergone a remarkable transformation. He stood there, his posture exuding a newfound confidence that belied his youth. His attire was a statement in itself – a pair of sleek black jeans paired with a striking green shirt that accentuated the emerald depth of his eyes. The unruly hair, once a messy tangle, was now styled in a way that framed his face, still carefully hiding the lightning-shaped scar on his forehead. It was a mark that spoke of his unique past and the extraordinary journey ahead of him. (Check paragraph comments for picture)
Gone was the malnourished appearance of his earlier years. Harry's body had developed a lean muscularity, a testament to the rigorous physical training he had undertaken. His height, too, had increased, adding to his commanding presence. He moved with an easy grace, each step radiating a sense of purpose and determination.
Petunia watched him, a mix of pride and nostalgia swirling in her heart. Here was the living legacy of her sister Lily, ready to step into a world that had once been closed to her. The change in Harry was not just physical. The once-timid boy who lived under the stairs had matured into someone who faced the world head-on, unafraid of its challenges.
Harry's transformation was not just a product of physical growth. His time with Nigel had cultivated in him a sharp mind and a witty demeanor. Nigel's influence was evident in Harry's quick responses and the clever glint in his eye – a subtle but unmistakable sign of the mental gymnastics he was accustomed to.
As Harry walked towards the train, his gaze swept over the bustling platform. His keen observation skills allowed him to take in the details of his surroundings – the anxious first-years clutching their parents' hands, the raucous laughter of returning students, and the stern faces of the prefects guiding the newcomers.
Harry's approach to the Hogwarts Express was marked by a sense of awe and wonder. It wasn't just a train; it was a symbol of a new chapter in his life, a passage to a world where he truly belonged. He climbed aboard with a deep breath, feeling a thrilling rush of anticipation.
Finding an empty compartment, Harry settled in, his mind racing with thoughts of the adventures that awaited him at Hogwarts. He was keenly aware of the challenges that lay ahead – mastering magic, understanding the complexities of the wizarding world, and navigating the social dynamics of a school filled with young witches and wizards from diverse backgrounds.
Harry Potter, nestled comfortably in an empty compartment of the Hogwarts Express, opened his book, "The Little Prince." He sought a light read for the journey, a respite from the intense preparations he had undertaken for his first year at Hogwarts. Calm and collected, he believed in the efficacy of his training and felt no need for last-minute cramming. Instead, he chose to embrace the moment, letting himself relax when the train would chug rhythmically through the English countryside.
As he delved into the pages, his mind partially on the story and partially on the adventures that awaited him, the compartment door slid open with a certain brashness. In stepped a boy of about eleven, his hair a striking shade of blond, almost silver in the train's soft light. His face, aristocratic and haughty, bore an expression of confidence that bordered on arrogance. Behind him loomed two considerably larger boys, their stances suggesting they were more brawn than brain, clearly the companions and possibly the cronies of the blond boy.
The blond boy's sharp, calculating eyes scanned the compartment and landed on Harry. "I heard Harry Potter was here," he declared, his voice carrying a tone of entitlement and curiosity. "I came to make an acquaintance."
Harry, unfazed by the interruption, calmly closed his book and stood up. His movements were graceful and deliberate, reflecting the noble etiquette he had meticulously learned from his readings. Over the months, Harry had delved into books about nobility, absorbing their manners and behaviors. He understood the power of first impressions and the subtle art of manipulation, starting with striking at one's pride.
"I am Harry Potter, heir of the Most Anceient and Noble Potter Family," he replied, his voice warm and welcoming, a smile playing on his lips. "Nice to meet you." His every word and gesture were a dance of charm and politeness, yet behind his friendly demeanor lay a keen, observing mind.
The blond boy, taken aback by Harry's poise and confidence, hesitated for a moment before regaining his composure. "Well, Heir Potter, I am Draco Malfoy, heir of the Most Ancient and Noble Malfoy family. These two are Crabbe and Goyle." he began, introducing himself with a family name that Harry recognized but chose not to react to outwardly. Harry's smile remained intact, his eyes locking with the boy's in a silent, respectful acknowledgment.
Nigel hummed with a touch of humor at the situation. "Quite the royal audience we have here, Master Harry," he remarked, his tone laced with an underlying wit. "Do tread carefully; nobility often comes with its own set of rules and games."
Harry squeezed Draco Malfoy's hand with a firm yet courteous grip, a practiced smile gracing his features. "Pleased to make your acquaintance, Heir Malfoy," he said, his tone carrying the refined cadence of a well-bred wizard. "And of course, welcome to you as well, Sir Crabbe and Sir Goyle."
Draco, slightly thrown off by Harry's polished demeanor, managed a smile of his own, though it seemed less certain than his usual smug expression. "I... ah, yes, thank you, Heir Potter. I've heard quite a bit about you, you know."
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