Ch70- Aiming High

Ch70- Aiming High

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The revelation of the first day at Hogwarts still lingered in the minds of the Slytherin students, especially the notion of the 'Serpent of the Crown'—the true leader of Slytherin House. This prestigious title, a legacy of Salazar Slytherin himself, was shrouded in secrecy and reverence. Only discussed within the confines of the Slytherin common room, the title was bestowed by the room itself, recognizing a student who embodied the qualities of leadership, cunning, and ambition.

As Harry sat in the common room, surrounded by his housemates, he could sense their curiosity and, in some cases, their envy. He was already a step ahead in the unspoken race to become the next Serpent of the Crown. His lineage as the Heir of the Potter Family, his role in the downfall of Voldemort, and his evident prowess in Transfiguration had set him apart. The question on everyone's mind was whether he would continue to excel in his other classes, further cementing his position.

Draco Malfoy, leaning close to the fireplace, watched Harry with a calculating gaze. "Potter, your performance in Transfiguration was... impressive," he remarked, his tone a mix of respect and rivalry.

Harry turned to Draco, his expression calm. "Thank you, Malfoy. It's just the beginning, though. There's much more to learn," he replied, his voice even.

Harry was indeed as eager to get the title of 'Serpent of the Crown.' To become the true lord of Slytherin house was a goal that would significantly aid in his mission to expand his influence and discover the conditions of acquiring the heirship of Slytherin lineage. For this reason, he even started to reconsider something he had previously discarded: Quidditch. His status sheet revealed a great talent in Broom Riding, and his father had been a renowned Seeker in his time. Harry wanted the fame and recognition that came with being a Quidditch star to propel him even further. However, first-year students were typically not allowed to attend tryouts, and he needed to devise a plan to overcome this hurdle. "I don't want to waste a year," he thought to himself.

Harry's contemplative gaze shifted towards Blaise Zabini. "So, Zabini, your family is from Italy, right?" he inquired, his tone casual yet inquisitive.

Zabini nodded in response. "My mother is. My father is from a small African tribe," he answered, his voice tinged with pride.

Harry nodded thoughtfully. "Why did you choose Hogwarts? I mean no offense, of course. I'm just curious, as Europe has other magical schools on par with Hogwarts, right?"

Zabini seemed unbothered by the question. "No offense taken, Potter. I've heard a lot about Hogwarts since I was small and always wanted to come here. The school's reputation and the diverse range of magical education it offers were too compelling to ignore."

Harry hummed, his mind working swiftly. "It's fascinating how Hogwarts attracts students from such varied backgrounds," he remarked. "The diversity here is a strength, I believe."

Harry appreciated Nigel's support. He spent the rest of the evening reviewing his notes and preparing for the next day. As he lay in bed, his thoughts drifted to the current Serpent of the Crown, Selena. She was a figure of influence within Slytherin, and Harry knew that gaining her support could be crucial in his quest to secure a spot in the team. 'Thoughts for later,' he mused, closing his eyes and drifting into a restful sleep.

The next day, Harry walked into the Potion room with Daphne and Tracey, his strides confident yet measured. He spotted Neville and greeted him with a nod. Neville looked visibly nervous, his eyes darting around the dungeon classroom, a stark contrast to the warmth of the castle above. The chill of the dungeon, compounded by the eerie sight of pickled animals floating in glass jars along the walls, added a layer of discomfort.

As Professor Snape entered with his usual flourish, the room fell into a hushed anticipation. He began roll call in his distinct, sibilant voice. "Brown, Bulstrode, Finnigan..." Each name was called with a note of indifference until he reached, "Harry Potter." Snape looked up, his gaze locking with Harry's. At that precise moment, Nigel's voice echoed in Harry's mind.

[System Message: Legilimency probe detected. Countermeasures activated.]

Snape's eyes narrowed, a flicker of annoyance crossing his features at the failed probe. But he quickly masked it with his usual sneer, remarking dryly, "Our new celebrity."

After completing the roll call, Snape stood and began his introduction to the art of potion making. His voice, though soft, carried clearly throughout the dungeon. "You are here to learn the subtle science and exact art of potionmaking," he said. "As there is little foolish wand-waving here, many of you will hardly believe this is magic. I don't expect you will really understand the beauty of the softly simmering cauldron with its shimmering fumes, the delicate power of liquids that creep through human veins, bewitching the mind, ensnaring the senses... I can teach you how to bottle fame, brew glory, even stopper death -- if you aren't as big a bunch of dunderheads as I usually have to teach."

His words hung in the air, laden with a mixture of disdain and challenge, leaving a palpable silence in their wake.

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