Chapter 5

As Harry settles into his seat aboard the Hogwarts Express with his friends, a sense of excitement bubbles within him, mingling with anticipation for the journey ahead. This year marks a significant departure from the norm for Harry, as instead of returning to the Dursleys' dreary home for the summer, he is bound for a new adventure—the Xavier's Institute for Higher Learning.

As Harry looks across at his friend, he cannot help but be reminded of how his friends reacted to his newfound status as a Magical-Mutant.

Ron, ever the loyal friend but not particularly knowledgeable about the world beyond magic, was confused by the concept of mutants. Harry could clearly picture the puzzled expression on Ron's face as he tries to wrap his head around the idea of mutations and mutant powers.

Hermione, on the other hand, was a different story. With her insatiable thirst for knowledge and voracious reading habits, she was already familiar with the concept of mutation, especially as she had already come across Professor Xavier's paper on the subject. Harry remembered how her eyes lit up with excitement as she delved into the intricacies of mutant genetics and the potential implications of Harry's newfound abilities.

Though their initial reactions may have differed, but Harry knew that both Ron and Hermione would ultimately accept him for who he is, mutation and all. After all, they've been through thick and thin together, standing by each other's side through every challenge and triumph.

As Harry's thoughts drift to his friends' reactions, the compartment door suddenly flies open, revealing Draco Malfoy and his cronies standing in the doorway. Harry's heart sinks at the sight of them, knowing all too well the trouble that tends to follow whenever Malfoy is involved.

"What do you want, Malfoy?" Harry asks, his voice tinged with annoyance.

Malfoy smirks, his trademark sneer twisting his features. "Just thought we'd come and see how the famous Harry Potter is enjoying his ride on the Hogwarts Express," he drawls, his tone dripping with condescension.

Harry rolls his eyes, already bracing himself for whatever insults Malfoy has in store. But before he can respond, Hermione steps forward, her expression steely.

"We're not interested in whatever nonsense you have to spew, Malfoy," she says, her voice firm. "So unless you have something productive to contribute, I suggest you leave."

Malfoy's smirk falters for a moment, taken aback by Hermione's boldness. But then, true to form, he regains his composure and sneers.

"Suit yourself, Mudblood," he retorts, his words laced with venom. "But don't say I didn't warn you when things start to go south."

Harry's annoyance flares up at hearing the derogatory term used to address Hermione. He wastes no time and springs into action.

Channeling the enhanced agility and strength he gained from absorbing the powers of the Basilisk, Harry moves with lightning speed, reaching out to grab Malfoy by the collar of his robes. With a swift and fluid motion, he lifts Malfoy effortlessly off the ground, his muscles flexing with newfound power.

Malfoy's eyes widen in shock as he dangles helplessly in the air, his taunts silenced by Harry's unexpected display of strength. Harry's friends watch in amazement, their mouths agape at the sight of their usually mild-mannered friend asserting himself in such a bold and assertive manner.

"Let me go, Potter!" Malfoy splutters, his voice tinged with panic.

Harry meets Malfoy's gaze with a steely glare, his grip firm and unwavering. "Listen here, Malfoy," he says, his voice low and dangerous. "I'm not interested in your petty insults or your pathetic attempts at intimidation. So unless you want to find yourself on the receiving end of a lot more than just a little rough handling, I suggest you and your cronies find somewhere else to bother."

With that, Harry releases his grip on Malfoy, allowing him to stumble backwards into the waiting arms of his friends. As he tries to regain his composure after being lifted off the ground by Harry, Malfoy sneers and attempts to intimidate Harry.

"Potter, my father will hear about this!" Draco snarls, his voice laced with arrogance.

Harry, unfazed by Draco's empty threats, meets his gaze with a smirk of his own. "Oh, I'm shaking in my boots, Malfoy," he retorts, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "I'm sure your father will be thrilled to hear how you got manhandled by me."

Draco's face flushes with anger at Harry's taunt, but before he can respond, Hermione steps forward, her expression stern.

"Enough, Malfoy," she says, her voice cutting through the tension in the air. "We've had more than our fill of your nonsense for one day. Now kindly leave us alone and find someone else to bother."

Draco glares at Hermione for a moment, his pride wounded by her dismissal, but eventually he turns on his heel and storms out of the compartment, his cronies trailing behind him.

As the door swings shut behind them, Harry can't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at having put Malfoy in his place. As the tension dissipates in the compartment following Draco Malfoy's departure, Ron and Hermione exchange looks of disbelief at Harry's unexpected display of strength and assertiveness.

"Blimey, Harry, that was brilliant!" Ron exclaims, his eyes wide with excitement. "Did you see the look on Malfoy's face? You totally showed him who's boss!"

Harry grins at Ron's enthusiasm, feeling a surge of pride at his friend's words. "Thanks, Ron," he replies, his voice tinged with satisfaction. "I just couldn't let him get away with his usual nonsense."

Hermione, though visibly relieved that the altercation has come to an end, shoots Harry a reproachful look. "Harry, as much as I appreciate you standing up for me, you need to be careful," she admonishes gently. "We don't want to get into any more trouble."

Harry nods in understanding, knowing that Hermione is right. "You're right, Hermione," he agrees, his tone contrite. "I'll try to keep my temper in check from now on."

But despite her words of caution, Hermione can't help but feel a swell of pride in her chest at Harry's defense of her honor. She knows that Harry would do anything to protect his friends, and seeing him stand up to Malfoy in such a bold and fearless manner only serves to reaffirm her belief in him.

As the Hogwarts Express finally pulls into King's Cross Station, Harry's heart races with anticipation as he peers out of the window, scanning the platform for familiar faces. Amongst the bustling crowd, he spots two figures that stand out from the rest: Logan and Ms. Munroe.

With a surge of excitement, Harry gathers his belongings and makes his way off the train, eager to reunite with his friends and begin the next chapter of his journey at the Xavier's Institute.

"Logan! Ms. Munroe!" Harry calls out as he approaches them, a wide grin spreading across his face.

Logan, clad in his trademark leather jacket, gives Harry a nod of recognition, his expression gruff but welcoming. "Hey, kid," he replies, his voice gruff but warm. "Good to see you made it in one piece."

Ms. Munroe, her regal bearing as imposing as ever, offers Harry a warm smile. "Welcome, Harry," she says, her voice soft but full of warmth. "We're glad to have you join us at the Xavier's Institute."

As they exchange greetings and catch up on the latest news, Harry can't help but feel a surge of excitement at the prospect of introducing them to his friends, Ron and Hermione. With a smile, he gestures for Ron and Hermione to join him.

"Logan, Ms. Munroe, I'd like you to meet my friends, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger," Harry says, his voice filled with warmth as he gestures towards his companions.

Ron offers a friendly wave, his face split into a grin. "Hey there!" he greets enthusiastically. "Nice to meet you both."

Hermione, ever the picture of poise and grace, extends her hand in greeting. "It's a pleasure to meet you," she says politely, her tone warm and welcoming.

Logan nods in acknowledgment, his gaze assessing as he takes in Ron and Hermione. "Likewise," he replies gruffly, his voice rumbling low in his chest.

Ms. Munroe offers a serene smile, her eyes twinkling with warmth. "Welcome, Ron and Hermione," she says graciously.

As they exchange pleasantries and get to know each other, Harry's heart swells with warmth at the sight of the Weasley clan joining their little gathering. With Dumbledore having informed them of Harry's plans to stay with his friend Charles Xavier at the institute, but not divulging the details of Harry's newfound mutant abilities, the atmosphere is filled with an air of excitement and anticipation.

"Harry, my boy!" Mr. Weasley exclaims, his face breaking into a wide grin as he approaches. "So good to see you! And who might these fine folks be?" he adds, his gaze flicking curiously to Logan and Ms. Munroe.

Harry beams at Mr. Weasley, feeling a surge of affection for his second family. "Mr. Weasley, this is Logan and Ms. Munroe," he introduces warmly. "They're friends of mine from the Xavier's Institute."

Logan nods in greeting, his expression gruff but welcoming. "Pleasure to meet you," he says tersely.

Ms. Munroe offers a serene smile, her regal bearing unwavering. "Likewise," she says graciously. "We're delighted to make your acquaintance."

As the rest of the Weasley clan gathers around, exchanging greetings and catching up with Harry, the platform buzzes with excitement and chatter. Mrs. Weasley fusses over Harry, fussing over him and peppering him with questions about his time at Hogwarts, while the younger Weasley siblings look on with wide-eyed curiosity.

As the excitement of the meeting settles, Harry turns to Logan with curiosity sparking in his eyes. "So, Logan, how are we going to get to the Institute?" he asks, eager to learn more about their mode of transportation.

Logan grins, a mischievous twinkle in his eye. "We'll be taking the X-jet," he replies, his voice tinged with excitement. "It's a state-of-the-art aircraft designed specifically for our needs at the Xavier's Institute."

Harry's eyes widen with awe at the mention of the X-jet. "Wow, that sounds amazing!" he exclaims, barely able to contain his excitement. "I can't wait to see it!"

Logan chuckles at Harry's enthusiasm. "You're gonna love it, kid," he says, clapping Harry on the shoulder. "Now, let's go and get ready to board. The X-jet won't wait for anyone."

As the time draws near for Harry to depart with Logan and Ms. Munroe, he turns to the Weasleys and Hermione with a bittersweet smile. "Well, it looks like it's time for me to go," he says, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness at the thought of leaving his friends behind.

Mrs. Weasley envelops Harry in a tight hug, her eyes brimming with tears. "Take care of yourself, Harry dear," she says, her voice choked with emotion. "And don't forget to write to us!"

Harry returns Mrs. Weasley's hug, feeling a lump form in his throat. "I won't forget, Mrs. Weasley," he promises softly. "And I'll make sure to visit as soon as I can."

Ron claps Harry on the back, a grin spreading across his face. "Don't worry, mate," he says cheerfully. "We'll save you a seat at the Leaky Cauldron for when you get back."

Hermione smiles at Harry, her eyes shining with affection. "Take care, Harry," she says warmly. "And don't forget to finish your assignments while you're away."

Harry laughs, feeling a sense of warmth and camaraderie wash over him. "I won't, Hermione," he replies, his heart swelling with gratitude for his friends' unwavering support.

With one final round of hugs and farewells, Harry bids farewell to the Weasleys and Hermione, promising to meet them at Diagon Alley to do the Third Year shopping.

As Harry follows Logan and Storm through the bustling streets near King's Cross Station, he can't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him. With each step, he draws closer to the spot where the X-jet awaits, hidden from view under a powerful cloaking spell.

Finally, they reach their destination, a secluded spot tucked away from prying eyes. Logan and Storm exchange a knowing glance before gesturing for Harry to follow them further. With a sense of excitement coursing through him, Harry trails behind them, his heart pounding with anticipation.

As they approach a nondescript alleyway, Logan reaches into his pocket and produces a small device. With a few deft movements, he activates the cloaking mechanism, causing the sleek silhouette of the X-jet to materialize before them.

Harry's eyes widen in awe as he takes in the sight of the magnificent aircraft, its sleek lines and futuristic design leaving him speechless. "Wow," he breathes, unable to tear his gaze away from the impressive sight before him.

Logan grins at Harry's reaction, a sense of pride evident in his eyes. "Impressive, isn't it?" he says, his voice filled with satisfaction. "Now, let's get aboard. We've got a long journey ahead of us."

With a nod of agreement, Harry follows Logan and Storm as they climb aboard the X-jet. As Harry settles into the plush interior of the X-jet, he feels a surge of excitement coursing through him. The sleek design and advanced technology of the aircraft leave him in awe, and he can't help but marvel at the thought of traveling in such style.

With Logan and Storm at the controls, the engines roar to life, filling the cabin with a low, steady hum. Harry feels a thrill of anticipation as the X-jet begins to taxi down the runway, the world outside blurring past as they pick up speed.

Before he knows it, they're airborne, the ground falling away beneath them as they climb higher and higher into the sky. Harry watches in awe as the landscape below shrinks to tiny specks, the hustle and bustle of London fading into the distance.

As they level off at cruising altitude, Harry takes a moment to soak in the breathtaking view from the windows, the vast expanse of clouds stretching out before him like an endless sea. With a sense of wonder and excitement coursing through him, he can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to embark on this incredible journey.

With Logan and Storm at the helm, guiding them safely towards their destination, Harry knows that he's in good hands. And as they soar through the skies towards the Xavier's Institute, he can't help but feel a sense of anticipation building within him, eager to see what adventures await him at his new home.

---

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