88 5 Birds One Spell
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A reader asked if others are not reacting to Harry's "inward" chucklings, smiles, and talks. I would just like to clarify that those do not reflect on his face. In the previous chapter, I made chuckles make his injuries ache, but they are mostly for the scene. I hope it makes it clearer. Otherwise, the text feels so dry.
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Just then, the door to the hospital wing opened, much to Madam Pomfrey's visible irritation. In walked Professor McGonagall, followed closely by Professor Snape and Professor Sprout. McGonagall, as the Deputy Headmistress, carried an air of authority, her expression one of concern mixed with sternness. Snape, head of Slytherin, had his usual inscrutable look, while Sprout, head of Hufflepuff, looked worried, her eyes darting between Harry and Susan.
"Mr. Potter, what in Merlin's name happened?" McGonagall asked, her voice firm yet tinged with worry.
Harry, trying to downplay the situation, replied, "Just a bit of an accident during flying lessons, Professor. I'm fine, really."
McGonagall heard about Harry's feat in his first Flying Lesson – standing on his broom and catching Susan without any serious injury. As an avid Quidditch fan, her eyes sparkled with a mixture of admiration and envy, so potent that even the usually stoic Professor Snape felt a hint of discomfort at her intense gaze. Snape, however, harbored a secret smirk. With Harry's addition, he was confident Slytherin would secure the house cup once again this year. Yet, he remained silent, his expression unreadable as ever.
Snape contemplated awarding house points to Harry for his act of bravery, but he knew this was one of those rare occasions where even other professors would feel compelled to recognize such heroism. It would be more gratifying if his rivals acknowledged his student's valor. So, with a face that almost resembled a smile, he waited patiently.
Professor McGonagall approached Harry's bed, her stern expression softening as she neared. "Mr. Potter, that was an incredibly brave act. I've heard about your...unconventional descent. Very impressive, but please, be more cautious in the future."
Professor Sprout, head of Hufflepuff and ever the nurturer, added with genuine concern in her voice, "Yes, Mr. Potter, your safety is paramount. We don't want our students taking unnecessary risks, no matter how noble the intention."
Snape, in a rare display of agreement with his colleagues, nodded slightly, his dark eyes fixed on Harry. "Indeed, Potter. Slytherin needs its students whole and hearty."
Harry, still lying on the bed, managed a small, wry smile. "Thank you, Professors. I'll try to be more careful."
As the professors discussed the incident among themselves, Nigel's voice danced in Harry's mind, "Well, well, Master Harry. It seems you've managed to impress the Hogwarts faculty on your very first flight. A remarkable feat, though I do hope future flights involve less acrobatics and more... conventional flying."
Harry chuckled inwardly, replying mentally to Nigel, "I'll keep that in mind. Though I must admit, it's rather satisfying to see the professors so flustered over my flying skills."
Snape, meanwhile, turned his attention to Susan, who was still seated on the adjacent bed. "Ms. Bones, I trust you are unharmed?"
Susan nodded, her voice still trembling slightly. "Yes, Professor. Thanks to Harry."
Professor Sprout smiled warmly at the display of camaraderie and concern. "That's the spirit of Hogwarts – looking out for one another. Well done, both of you."
Professor McGonagall, always the pragmatist, interjected. "Let's not forget, however, that rules and safety protocols are in place for a reason. Mr. Potter's actions, while heroic, were also quite risky."
Snape, sensing an opportunity to speak, added, "Indeed. But courage and quick thinking are qualities we value in our students. Mr. Potter's actions, though risky, potentially saved a fellow student from serious harm. For that, he should be commended."
McGonagall nodded in agreement. "Very well. Thirty points to Slytherin for Mr. Potter's bravery. But let this be a lesson to all – safety comes first."
Nigel chimed in once more, his tone mixing amusement with a hint of admiration. "Ah, I can see now your plan was not as straightforward as you let on. Not only did you showcase your exceptional flying skills, but you also saved Ms. Bones, forging a connection you were keen to establish. From her looks, I dare say it's shaping up to be a rather... close bond. And let's not forget the points – one spell, three birds."
Harry chuckled in his mind. "Five," he corrected.
Nigel, momentarily taken aback, asked, "Five?"
Harry elaborated, "You're overlooking our esteemed Headmaster. He wanted me in Gryffindor, right? I suspect he envisioned me as brave and foolhardy. Now, with a rescue like this, I've 'proven' myself to fit his expectations. So, despite being in Slytherin, he's likely to suspect me less."
Nigel, impressed, said, "Very cunning, Master Potter. You're playing chess while everyone else is playing checkers. And what about the fifth?"
Harry smirked, "That will reveal itself in time."
As Harry lay in the infirmary bed, his mind wandered to the day's events and the implications of his actions. The rescue had been more than just an act of bravery; it was a strategic move, carefully calculated to serve multiple purposes. Not only had he gained the admiration of his peers and professors, but he had also subtly shifted the perceptions of those around him. In the world of Hogwarts, where every action was scrutinized and every alliance mattered, this was no small feat.
Professor McGonagall's awarding of thirty points to Slytherin for his bravery had been a significant moment. It was a rare instance where a Slytherin's actions were openly commended by a professor known for her strict adherence to rules and fairness. Snape's subtle nod of approval had not gone unnoticed by Harry. The Potions Master was a hard man to please, and his recognition, albeit understated, spoke volumes.
As Harry reflected on these developments, Nigel's voice broke through his thoughts. "You do realize, Master Harry, that with such public displays of heroism, you're setting quite a precedent for yourself. I foresee a future filled with daring rescues and dramatic entrances."
Harry's lips twitched in amusement. "Let's hope not, Nigel. I prefer my days a bit less... eventful."
"Ah, but where's the fun in that?" Nigel teased. "You're a Potter, after all. A little excitement seems to be part of the family crest."
Harry's gaze shifted to the ceiling, his thoughts drifting to his parents. He wondered what they would think of his actions, of the path he was carving for himself at Hogwarts. Would they be proud? Concerned? Hate? He hoped it was the former.
His musings were interrupted by the arrival of a small group of students at the infirmary door. Daphne, Tracey, Malfoy, Zabini, and Nott from Slytherin approached his bedside, their expressions a mix of concern and curiosity. Following closely were Hermione and Neville from Gryffindor, and Hannah Abbott came to stand next to Susan, who was now ready to be discharged. Madam Pomfrey, with a stern glance, said, "You have ten minutes," before retreating to her office.
As his classmates gathered around, Harry noticed the varied expressions on their faces. Daphne's eyes showed genuine concern, while Tracey's face was lit up with excitement, probably brimming with questions about his daring flight. Malfoy wore a grin, mixture of respect and envy. Zabini and Nott seemed more reserved, their eyes flicking between Harry and the others.
Hermione, who Harry had previously observed under a Compelling spell to get close to him, approached with a cautious but intrigued expression. Neville looked both worried and impressed, while Hannah Abbott stood by Susan's side, her expression one of relief and gratitude towards Harry.
"You really gave us a fright, Potter," Daphne said, breaking the silence. "That was quite the stunt."
Harry replied with a wry smile, "I prefer to think of it as an impromptu broom exercise."
Tracey, unable to contain her curiosity, chimed in, "How did you manage to catch Ms. Bones like that? It was incredible!"
Harry shrugged modestly, "Just a bit of luck and good timing, I guess."
Nigel added sardonically, "WHAT? Luck? And here I thought you were auditioning for the Cirque du Sorcier."
Malfoy, leaning against a bedpost, said, "That was some quick thinking, Potter. Not bad for a first-year."
Harry nodded to Malfoy. The growing respect of the Malfoy Heir was a critical part of Harry's strategy. Among the first-years, Malfoy was the only one with enough influence to challenge for the title of Serpent of the Crown. While he lacked Harry's skill and power, the specifics of how the Room selected the Serpent remained a mystery to Harry. Until it was clear, he needed to ensure Malfoy didn't overshadow him. As long as Malfoy remained a compliant and loyal subordinate, Harry saw no issue in their relationship.
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