It could be a stray wizard who happened to pass by Harry's place and noticed his magical potential. This wizard might take pity on Harry and start teaching him a bit about magic.
Perhaps an old family friend of the Potters who is a wizard and has been secretly keeping an eye on Harry. Once he realizes that Harry is showing signs of his magic, he decides to start teaching him. This person could have known Harry's parents well and feels a sense of duty to pass on some magic knowledge to Harry.
One interesting plot could be that Harry discovers he has magic through an encounter with a magical creature in his neighborhood. For example, he might meet a house - elf who accidentally reveals some magic to him. Another plot could involve Harry finding a hidden magic book in his aunt and uncle's attic that teaches him basic spells.
It could be a former member of the Weird Sisters. Given their fame in the wizarding world of music, one of them might decide to teach at Hogwarts. They would bring a lot of rock - like energy to the class.
Dumbledore is often a popular character. In fanfiction, he might be explored in more depth, like his early years as a wizard or his relationships with other powerful wizards that were not fully shown in the original books. His wisdom and power make him a great subject for new and exciting stories.
Well, he might get training in magical knowledge. Such as learning about different magical plants and their uses. He could be taught by an old wizard in his neighborhood. This knowledge would give him an edge when he starts at Hogwarts, especially in Herbology classes. Also, he could be trained in magical navigation, like how to use a map of the wizarding world or find his way in enchanted forests.
In the learning trunk, there might be a magical map similar to the Marauder's Map but with more detailed information about the Hogwarts library. It could show hidden sections and the location of books related to specific spells or magical theories. There could also be a set of magical crystals that when held, can transport him into virtual scenarios to practice spells and combat skills in a safe environment.
Hermione Granger could also be a possible Hogwarts heir. She is extremely intelligent and has a thirst for knowledge about Hogwarts' history and magic. Her Muggle - born status might seem to be a contradiction, but it could also be part of what makes her unique as the heir. She could bring new perspectives and use her vast knowledge to unlock secrets about the heir's role and the future of Hogwarts.
Maybe Professor McGonagall. She was strict but also had a soft spot for Harry. She might take Harry under her wing more in this fanfiction and make him her 'pet' student. She could teach him advanced Transfiguration skills or involve him in Gryffindor - related leadership tasks that give him an edge over the other students.
One possible storyline could be that Harry's experience with cancer makes him more resilient. He might have faced his own mortality at a young age, so when he enters the wizarding world, he has a different perspective on danger. For example, he may not be as afraid of Voldemort as others because he has already fought a life - threatening battle with cancer.
In the fanfiction world, Harry might be the heir to Hogwarts if there was some sort of magical pact made generations ago. For example, perhaps one of his ancestors had a special role in the creation or protection of Hogwarts, and this role was passed down through the family. It could also be that his unique magical abilities, like his ability to resist Voldemort's attacks from a young age, are signs of a deeper connection to Hogwarts itself. This connection could be what designates him as the heir in the fanfiction's plot.
Yes, there are quite a few. Some fanfictions explore Harry being trained by his parents' friends in secret before going to Hogwarts. For example, he might be taught basic magic skills like levitation or simple spells by Sirius Black or Remus Lupin. These fanfictions add an interesting twist to the original story, showing a more prepared Harry when he finally steps into Hogwarts.