Chapter 44: “Changes in Mindset”

The evening at Black Castle was calm, yet Harry Potter's mind was anything but. He had come seeking stories about his great-grandfather, Charlus Potter, hoping to connect deeper with his family's past. Instead, he discovered truths that shifted his whole outlook on his role in the magical world.

Before this visit, Harry's main goal in this life was simple: beat Voldemort and get strong enough to protect his loved ones from any danger. He hadn't thought much about taking on a bigger role in the wizarding world or becoming a leader. He was content with the idea of hiding away, safe from the larger battles of the magical community.

However, Lord Arcturus Black's stories about the Potters changed Harry's mindset. He was no longer just a person who had been reborn into this magical world; he was the scion of a powerful and respected wizarding family. It became increasingly clear that his destiny was intertwined with the broader narrative of the magical community. He wasn't merely a bystander or a reluctant participant; he was, by birth and by blood, destined to play a central role in the unfolding drama of the wizarding world.

This realization sparked a new ambition in Harry. He saw that his destiny was linked to much more than his personal battles. The wizarding world, with its deep fissures and looming threats, would inevitably look to a Potter to guide them through turmoil and conflict. The idea of living a quiet life away from it all suddenly seemed impossible unless he escaped like a coward. 

This epiphany brought with it a sense of clarity. Harry's previous dreams, like making a big name for himself in the non-magical world, of building business empires that rivaled the likes of Google or Tesla, felt less urgent now. Those ambitions, while undoubtedly under his reach, didn't disappear; they just felt smaller compared to the responsibility he now felt towards the magical community. If they happened anyway through Harry's actions in the future, he would be happy but they were not his focus now.

Harry's new resolve was about more than restoring his family's name. He wanted to be someone like Charlus Potter. He wanted to lead the wizarding world through its eventual challenges with dark wizards and the muggle world and make a real difference. He imagined a future where the Potters were known not just for their power but for bringing hope and unity to a world teetering on the brink of disaster.

This newfound ambition was a flame that burned bright within Harry. His heart, once torn between the muggle world which was similar to that of his past life, and the world of his lineage, now beat firmly for the wizarding world.

In that moment, surrounded by the history of Black Castle, Harry fully accepted his destiny. He wanted to make a lasting impact on the magical world, following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather Charlus Potter.

Harry, filled with a newfound sense of purpose, turned to face Lord Black, his eyes alight with the determination of a young wizard on the brink of embracing his destiny.

"I want to reach the heights of magical prowess and strength that my great-grandfather achieved. What steps must I take to realize such strength?" he inquired, his voice steady and full of resolve.

Lord Black, observing the fire in Harry's eyes, replied, "You fight, Harry. You fight for all you are worth and with everything you have. Fight for the memory of your grandparents and fight for your life and your future. Fight the way your Grandfather did. I believe everyone should be their own man but if you aspire to be anyone or want someone to look up to then look no further than your Charlus, you couldn't find a better role model. He was the best man I knew and ever will know. I see him in you, Potter. Your experiences have made you a fighter. You are like him more than you know. Honor him, and your grandparents the way they deserve."

"But the family magic, the secrets of the Potters, are locked away from me," Harry said with a hint of frustration.

"At this juncture, Harry, you don't need those books. What you need is rigorous training, guidance, and time to mature into your potential," Arcturus advised, his tone patient yet firm.

"I've already begun," Harry declared, his resolve clear. He took out his training wand and proceeded to cast a series of spells – Lumos, Wingardium Leviosa, Expelliarmus – each executed flawlessly, some even silently. The room lit up with sparks of red, green, and blue, as objects floated gracefully under his command. The display culminated with a resplendent Lumos, bathing the room in light.

Lord Black had seen his fair share of magic from some of the most talented wizards and witches over the years, yet what he saw from Harry was something else entirely. Considering Harry's young age, it was even more remarkable. While most kids Harry's age would be more interested in reading picture books or enjoying sweets, Harry was already showing a skill in magic that was beyond his years.

What stood out to Lord Black wasn't just how accurately Harry could cast spells; it was the sheer strength and passion that seemed to fuel every move Harry made. Harry's magic felt wild and untamed, but it was obvious he was getting better at controlling it every day, showing an impressive level of skill.

After Harry's impromptu demonstration, a silence settled over the room. Harry turned to Lord Black, full of anticipation, his question clear in his eager eyes.

"What do you think, Grandpa? This is a result of my nearly a year's worth of hard work. Do you think that with this early start, I can be more powerful than my great-grandfather." he asked a blend of pride and hopeful curiosity in his voice.

Lord Black took his time, watching Harry with an insightful look, before he began to speak. "Your potential is undeniable, Harry. You've got a natural talent for magic that's rare, even in our world. A talent that certainly runs in the Potter bloodline. But it's crucial to understand that the strongest wizards are often those who've been tested by real challenges. And remember, in our days it was normal for young wizards like your grandfather and I to start our magical learning early. It's a recent trend to wait until eleven. So you are not too special."

Arcturus paused, his gaze distant as if recalling memories from long ago. "Charlus, your great-grandfather, was shaped into the formidable wizard he was by his experiences in the Grindelwald war. The adversity he faced, the battles and trials, were what honed his abilities and his resolve."

He continued, "Similarly, Fleamont, your grandfather, didn't shy away from conflict. He too faced his share of duels and skirmishes. He made a name for himself fighting dark wizards, proving his worth on the dueling stage. It was their courage, their relentless pursuit of excellence, that made them the wizards they were."

His expression turned slightly somber as he mentioned James, Harry's father. James lived in a less turbulent time, initially. He and Sirius were known more for their pranks than their prowess. It was only with Voldemort's rise that James really began to show what he was capable of. But even then, he didn't have the same kind of trials that Charlus or Fleamont faced. His potential, while great, was never fully realized in the same way."

Harry paid close attention, soaking in every detail. He realized the importance of real challenges in shaping a wizard's strength, not just leisure or casual study. He knew he had to embrace battles and trials to truly grow.

Lord Black's hand rested on Harry's shoulder, offering a mix of solemnity and warmth. "Harry, you've got the potential to be an exceptional wizard. But greatness comes from more than just raw talent. It's about how you apply your skills, and how you face and overcome difficulties. Your journey is yours alone to shape. Whether you'll outshine your forebears or tread a unique path is up to you."

Harry nodded, his resolve unwavering. "I understand, Grandpa Arcturus. I'm ready to face whatever challenges come my way. I want to honor the legacy of my family and be a wizard they would have been proud of."

A hint of a smile touched Lord Black's stern features. "Very well, Harry. In that case, I extend an invitation to you. Come back to Black Castle tomorrow. It is time to commence your training, a training that will go beyond the basics you've learned so far."

Harry's eyes lit up at the prospect. Training under the guidance of Lord Arcturus Black, a wizard of immense experience and knowledge, was an opportunity beyond his wildest dreams. It was a chance to grow, to learn, and to prepare for whatever the future held.

"I'll be here, Grandpa Arcturus. Thank you for this chance," Harry replied, his voice steady yet filled with gratitude.

"Good," Arcturus said with a nod. "Prepare yourself, Harry. A wizard's journey is full of hurdles but also opportunities. Tomorrow marks the beginning of a new phase in your training, one that will challenge and, I hope, forge you into a wizard fitting of the Charlus's legacy."

Leaving the castle that evening, Harry was greeted by a sunset that painted the sky in vibrant shades of orange and purple. A sense of eagerness filled him, an eagerness to start this next chapter in his magical education.