Ch75- Everything is Permissible
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With this new understanding, Harry decided to approach Hermione subtly, without revealing the existence of the Compelling Spell or Dumbledore's possible involvement. He wanted to help her realize, if indeed she was out of place, and support her in adapting to her new environment.
"So, Ms. Granger, have you found your place in Gryffindor?" Harry inquired, his voice casual yet laced with a deeper curiosity.
Hermione paused, her eyes reflecting a mix of pride and uncertainty. "I suppose so. It's been a whirlwind of new experiences. Gryffindor is all about bravery and courage, which I admire, but sometimes I feel a bit... out of sync."
Harry, leaning slightly closer, spoke with a gentle tone, "It's natural to feel out of place at first, especially in a new environment. But you're a quick learner, and I'm sure you'll find your footing soon."
Hermione smiled, but her smile didn't quite reach her eyes. "I hope so, Harry. Sometimes, I wonder if I would've been better suited for Ravenclaw."
Harry's response was thoughtful, "Ms. Granger, it's not just where you're placed that defines you, but how you grow and adapt. Gryffindor will challenge you, yes, but it might also bring out qualities in you that you didn't know existed."
Hermione considered his words, a thoughtful expression crossing her features. "That's a nice way to look at it, Harry. Thank you."
As Harry conversed with Hermione, he couldn't help but observe her closely, looking for signs that might indicate an unnatural influence on her behavior. He noted her responses, the way her eyes lingered on certain topics, and her body language. Everything seemed normal, but Harry couldn't shake off the suspicion that Dumbledore's influence might be more subtle than he initially thought.
After their conversation, Harry bid Hermione farewell and left the library. As he walked back to the Slytherin common room, he pondered the complexities of the situation. Dumbledore's potential influence over Hermione's Sorting and Ron's behavior added layers of complexity to his first year at Hogwarts. It was a game of chess, with Dumbledore possibly moving pieces in a grand strategy. But Harry was not a piece to be moved at will. He was a player in his own right, and he intended to play this game with skill and cunning.
Back in the Slytherin common room, Harry found himself amidst his housemates, their conversations a mix of school gossip and plans for the upcoming weekend.
Before Harry could settle into the Slytherin common room's rhythm, a 7th-year student approached him. "Selena wishes to see you," she stated, her tone conveying the importance of the summon. Harry nodded in acknowledgment and followed the girl. They arrived at the dungeon door, the entrance to the common room, but rather than leaving, the girl knocked on a brass snake head affixed to the wall. To Harry's fascination, the wall split open, revealing a hidden corridor lined with doors on either side, leading to an open area.
Arriving at the opening, Harry was greeted by Selena, the current Serpent of the Crown. She was an imposing figure, with flowing brown hair and green eyes that, while not as vivid as Harry's, exuded a noble and fair disposition. "Professor Snape informed me you want to try out for the Quidditch team," Selena said, her voice carrying a tone of authority.
"Yes," Harry replied, meeting her gaze with equal measure. He noted the confidence in her stance and the way she carried herself - a true representation of Slytherin's noble legacy.
Next came the mock Snitch chase. A small, enchanted golden ball was released, darting around the room unpredictably. Harry's eyes narrowed as he focused on the Snitch, his body leaning forward as he urged the broom to greater speeds.
Harry, high above the floor of the classroom-turned-Quidditch pitch, called out in his mind to Nigel. "Nigel, analyze the fly path of the snitch and calculate the best route."
In the quiet corner of Harry's mind, Nigel's voice emerged, tinged with its usual undertones, "Cheating, Master Harry, is it not below you?"
Harry's lips curled into a smirk, visible even from the ground. "It's not cheating," he retorted mentally. "It's using every tool at my disposal. For my goal, everything is permissible."
As Harry soared on the broom, his eyes fixed on the fluttering golden Snitch, Nigel’s calculations began to flow into his consciousness. Numbers, angles, and trajectories formed a mental map, guiding Harry through the air with precision that went beyond mere instinct.
Below, Flint and the team watched, their eyes tracing Harry's movements, marveling at his uncanny ability to anticipate the Snitch's erratic path. Harry's broom darted left, then right, ascending and descending in a dance that was as mesmerizing as it was effective.
The Snitch, a blur of gold, zipped towards the far end of the room. Harry, with Nigel's guidance whispering in his mind, leaned sharply, his broom banking with such agility that it drew gasps from the spectators. His hand stretched out, inches away from the elusive target.
Suddenly, the Snitch veered upward in a steep arc. Harry adjusted instantly, his body in perfect sync with Nigel's calculations. The broom ascended, closing the gap between Harry and his quarry.
Just as the Snitch seemed within grasp, it darted towards a small opening near the ceiling. Harry, undeterred, followed. His eyes, bright with determination, never left the tiny sphere. The room held its breath as Harry neared the ceiling, his hand outstretched.
In a swift, fluid motion, Harry's fingers closed around the Snitch. The room erupted in cheers and applause. Flint, a look of grudging respect on his face, nodded in approval. "Impressive, Potter. Very impressive."
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