Pain.
Excruciating pain.
My head feels like it's splitting open!
A vibrant, dream-like world filled with whispers suddenly shattered. James, sound asleep, was jolted awake by a sharp, throbbing pain in his head, as though someone had repeatedly struck him with a heavy rod. No, it was more like a sharp object had pierced right through his temples, twisting with each heartbeat.
Ouch…
Half-conscious, James tried to turn over, sit up, but found himself utterly immobile. It was as if his body was no longer under his control.
I must still be dreaming. This is just another dream… Soon, I'll think I've woken up, only to realize I'm still asleep…
James, who had experienced similar situations before, focused all his energy on breaking free from the darkness and confusion that held him captive.
But even in this semi-conscious state, his willpower was as fleeting as mist. His thoughts were fragmented and uncontrollable. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't concentrate, and his mind kept drifting.
Why am I suddenly having such a terrible headache in the middle of the night?
And it hurts so much!
Could it be a cerebral hemorrhage?
Am I going to die young?
I need to wake up! Right now!
Eh? The pain isn't as intense as before…
But why does it still feel like a dull knife is slicing through my brain…
There's no way I'll be able to sleep like this. How am I supposed to show up for the exam tomorrow with this throbbing pain?
The pain subsided slightly, giving James just enough strength to push himself up. He stood shakily, glancing around the unfamiliar room in a panic.
The room was small, containing a broken dining table and chairs. Four people lay unconscious on the floor, and it looked as though an explosion had occurred right at the table.
Across the room, to the right, was a cracked dressing mirror with a simple wooden frame.
As James' gaze swept over the mirror, he caught sight of his reflection—his current appearance.
Black hair, green eyes, a second-hand shirt, a thin build, average features, and… a lightning bolt scar on my forehead…
This…!
James gasped as a flurry of helpless, confused thoughts flooded his mind.
C-could I have transmigrated?!
James' mouth fell open slightly. He had grown up reading novels and had often fantasized about such scenarios. But now, faced with the reality of it, he found it hard to accept.
Within a minute, James had cursed his luck while trying to adapt to the bizarre situation.
If not for the lingering pain that kept his thoughts sharp, he might have convinced himself that he was still dreaming.
Calm down, calm down, calm down…!
Taking several deep breaths, James forced himself to stop panicking.
As his mind and body relaxed, memories began to flood his consciousness, slowly revealing themselves.
Harry Potter… the Boy Who Lived… just had a massive accidental magic burst, far more intense than in the original story.
Feeling weak, James—now Harry—barely managed to grab the edge of the table to steady himself.
I've seen the movies but never read the books… This feels different from what I remember.
As he processed the memories, James couldn't tell if he was truly himself or if he had become Harry Potter.
James—no, Harry—stood in stunned silence. The dim lighting made it hard to see clearly, so he groped around until he found his glasses. After putting them on, he retrieved his trunk and sent his pet owl off with a note.
Now what? Why am I thinking like this? Is something messing with my thoughts?
Alright, for now, I'm Harry Potter, and I'm following the movie plot…
As Harry prepared to use his wand to summon the Knight Bus, he found a tarot card in his pocket—the Fool.
Wait… where am I? The Harry Potter universe or… the world of The Lord of Mysteries?
So, that explains why I'm so confused.
When I woke up, the scene around me resembled the beginning of the third Harry Potter movie, yet the situation felt eerily similar to a web novel I'd been reading before my exams. I hadn't finished the novel due to my studies, and my memory of it was hazy, but I recognized the tarot card I found.
Okay, no time to dwell on this. I need to get out of here. But… where's the big black dog?
Harry—or rather, James, now inhabiting Harry's body—started searching for the black dog, hoping to confirm that the movie's plot was still on track. Just as he expected, the dog appeared before his eyes, just like in the movie. The dog looked at Harry for a moment, then disappeared back into the shadows.
For a brief moment, Harry stared at the spot where the dog had vanished, then he used his wand to summon the Knight Bus, just as shown in the movie.
After an uncomfortable ride on the bus, Harry arrived at the famous Leaky Cauldron.
Okay, that was a ride! I've just experienced the worst wizarding travel method. I definitely need to try others.
Just as Harry was about to enter the Leaky Cauldron, he noticed that Cornelius Fudge, the Minister of Magic, was waiting for him.
Fudge reassured Harry not to worry about the accidental magic he had performed; the Ministry would handle everything. However, Harry was told that he had to remain at the Leaky Cauldron for the rest of the summer vacation. All his luggage had been sent to his room, and the Ministry had already purchased his books for the upcoming school year.
Harry was instructed to stay in his room for his own safety, as a dangerous criminal had escaped from Azkaban. The escaped prisoner, Sirius Black, was believed to be one of You-Know-Who's most loyal followers and might be hunting Harry.
After the brief conversation, Cornelius Fudge sent Harry to his room and bid him farewell.
Alright, now that I'm alone, I need to clear my head and figure out what's going on.
I'm officially Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived, and I've somehow ended up with a tarot card that holds the secrets of gods.
I've only watched the Harry Potter movies once, and I've read about 60% of The Lord of Mysteries. But my memories of both are spotty, probably because of the exams. There are gaps in my memory, and yet, I'm surprisingly calm about this whole situation.
I need to focus on what to do next. First, can I perform all the magic Harry knows?
Let's start with Lumos.
After a few moments…
Okay, I can do Lumos, but it's a bit difficult. I'll need to practice all the spells Harry learned in his first and second years.
Now, what about Beyonder potions? But wait, the world of Harry Potter and The Lord of Mysteries are different. Will I even be able to find the materials for a Sequence 9 Seer potion?
The only sequence I know is the Fool pathway, but from Harry's memories, I don't know of any potion ingredients.
Hmm… Diagon Alley has plenty of potion ingredients, and there's also the black market. But how can I shop without anyone noticing?
Invisibility cloak? No, that would be too much of a hassle. I need to find another way.
Let me think.
Think.
Think!
I need to find someone who can shop for me, someone knowledgeable about potion ingredients, and who wouldn't arouse any suspicion.
Okay, I've calmed down. First, I need to make a list of the ingredients needed for the Seer potion, Sequence 9.
Level 9 Main/Supplementary Ingredients:
100 milliliters of pure water13 drops of night vanilla extract7 gold mint leaves3 drops of poison hemlock9 grams of dragon blood grass powder10 milliliters of Lavos Squid's blood50 grams of Stellar Aqua crystal
Now, let's see if I can find anything in the Potion Book.
After a while, Harry closed the Potion Book and found two ingredients—dragon blood grass and Lavos Squid blood—mentioned in the book as components for other potions.
After that, Harry felt exhausted and decided to sleep, but four hours later, he suddenly woke up.
I know who would be perfect for shopping for my potion ingredients.
A house-elf!
And I know just the house-elf who will help me.
Here goes nothing.
Dobby!
With a pop, a house-elf suddenly appeared in the room and said, "Grand wizard Harry Potter, are you calling me?"
After seeing Dobby up close, James once again confirmed that he was indeed in the Harry Potter world. The house-elf standing before him wasn't some CGI creation but a real magical creature, alive and breathing.
When Dobby asked James if he had summoned him, James nodded and explained that he needed Dobby's help to purchase some materials. He didn't have permission to go shopping himself, so Dobby's assistance was essential.
Dobby eagerly agreed, exclaiming that he would be honored to assist the great wizard Harry Potter. James handed him the list of materials.
Upon seeing the list, Dobby mentioned that some of the items were uncommon, but he promised to do his best to acquire them all. James then gave Dobby 50 galleons, and with a snap, Dobby disappeared from the room.
As Dobby left, James thought, "What should I do now?" It was already morning, and he needed a plan for the day.
Reflecting on his struggles with magic the previous day, James realized he needed to practice to ensure he could perform spells without raising suspicion. "It's for maintaining this identity, not just for fun!" he reminded himself.
He decided to start with Lumos.
After an hour of practicing Lumos, James felt that his mastery of the spell was nearly on par with the previous Harry's level. He noticed that as he practiced, it became easier to reach the proficiency Harry once had. This gave him hope that, with enough time, he could regain all the magical abilities that Harry had possessed.
By the time he finished practicing, it was time for breakfast. After eating, James decided it was time to study. Although he had Harry's memories, they felt like external memories—information that wasn't fully internalized. He needed to study to truly understand magic.
He decided to start with the first-year subjects:
TransfigurationCharmsPotionsHistory of MagicDefense Against the Dark ArtsAstronomyHerbology
James chose to begin with Potions, knowing that it was Harry's least favorite subject, largely due to Professor Snape, the bat. He also needed to understand potion-making better, especially since he intended to create a sequence potion. He suspected that the rules for potion-making in the Harry Potter universe might differ from those in the world of Lord of Mysteries.
After a morning of reading, James was able to piece together some of the rules of potion-making. He learned how certain materials reacted with others, how some ingredients could become unstable depending on temperature, and how the surrounding magic could influence reactions. For example, in areas with a high concentration of magic, the reactions would differ significantly from those in less magical environments.
James contemplated whether he would need to find a specific location to brew the Sequence 9 Seer potion. He realized that potion-making in this world had some similarities to chemistry, though with magical variables.
As lunchtime approached, James decided to take a break and eat before continuing his studies. He reminded himself that he had two or three days before Ron and Hermione would arrive.
After lunch, James returned to his room, where he found his pet owl, Hedwig—a two-foot-tall snowy owl—perched on the windowsill. This gave James an idea. In Lord of Mysteries, there were extraordinary creatures, so perhaps he could try to turn Hedwig into a Beyonder creature. However, he couldn't recall the exact sequence formula. He figured there were ways to retrieve it, such as using memory magic or divination. After all, once something is read, it could be remembered with magic.
At that moment, Dobby reappeared with a pop. "The great wizard Harry Potter, Dobby has collected the materials available in Diagon Alley. Only two items were unavailable," the house-elf reported.
Dobby then added, "Dobby is going to a black market to gather the remaining two materials."
James instructed Dobby to be careful and to return immediately if anything went wrong.
Once Dobby returned with the materials, James knew he would need to find a secure location to brew the potion, ensuring no issues would arise.
After Dobby left, James turned his attention to another magical subject that had piqued his curiosity: Transfiguration. Having just delved into Potions, he noted the striking similarities between Potions and chemistry from his previous life. With that comparison in mind, he wondered if Transfiguration could be akin to physics, given its focus on changing the properties of objects. He opened his first-year Transfiguration textbook with a sense of anticipation.
Two hours later, James closed the book with a sigh. "Reading alone won't be enough," he muttered to himself. "If I don't practice, I'll never truly master the magic."
Determined to make progress, James leaned back in his chair and tried to recall his memories of Transfiguration magic from the time when this body was purely Harry Potter's. The first spell he had learned at Hogwarts came to mind: the simple act of turning a matchstick into a silver needle.
"Well," James thought, "I don't have any matches with me, but that shouldn't be a problem. I do have some toothpicks, and they're already somewhat shaped like needles. It might even make things easier."
He set a toothpick on the desk before him and focused his wand. His first attempt at the spell yielded no results. Frowning, James tried again and again, but the toothpick stubbornly remained as it was. After several tries, the results were only marginally better, with the toothpick showing the same slight transformation that Hermione had achieved during their first class.
James sat back, thinking deeply. "It seems that when it comes to magic this body has already learned, I do have an advantage. But success clearly depends on my understanding and intent." He realized that, unlike Potions, where the process was akin to following a recipe, Transfiguration required a more nuanced approach. Intent and visualization were key.
James picked up a silver needle in one hand and the toothpick in the other, feeling the difference between the two. The silver needle was cold and heavier than the wooden toothpick. He closed his eyes, visualizing the transformation—each atom of the toothpick shifting, changing, becoming like the atoms of the silver needle. He repeated this visualization in his mind for about ten minutes, building a clear and strong image of the transformation process.
Feeling more confident, James tried the spell again. This time, there was a noticeable change—the toothpick began to shimmer and shift, partially transforming into a silver needle, though it still bore some imperfections. James smiled to himself, satisfied with the progress. "It's working," he thought, "but I need to make it faster."
He continued practicing, repeating the spell over and over. With each attempt, he shortened the time needed for the transformation. After twenty tries, he could turn the toothpick into a near-perfect silver needle in just two minutes.
"Alright," James mused, "let's change things up a bit. If I can turn a toothpick into a silver needle, I should be able to do the reverse as well."
The idea of reversing the transformation intrigued him, as it would demonstrate his control over the magic. He focused on the silver needle in his hand, visualizing it becoming a simple wooden toothpick again. His first few attempts required careful concentration and took about five minutes of visualization, but the needle did begin to change. After several more tries, James could transfigure the needle back into a toothpick with increasing ease.
By the time dinner approached, James was able to switch between the two forms—needle to toothpick, toothpick to needle—in less than a minute. Satisfied with his progress but feeling the strain of prolonged concentration, he decided to take a break. "That's enough for now," he muttered to himself as he set down the needle. "I'm hungry, and I've worn myself out."
After a quick dinner in the inn, where he overheard people gossiping about Sirius Black's whereabouts and speculating about his motives for breaking out of Azkaban, James's mind wandered to the fugitive wizard's true motivation. He knew why Black had escaped, but he also knew it wasn't time to act on that knowledge yet. He needed to fully adapt to his new circumstances first.
As he returned to his room, James realized he still had some time before bed. "Why not try out the famous Levitation Charm—Wingardium Leviosa?" he thought.
He recalled the spell's instructions: a swish and flick of the wand, accompanied by the incantation. The charm was designed to levitate objects, ranging from light feathers to heavier items, and could even be used to lift other people. James decided to start small. He focused on a single page of parchment, but his first few attempts were unsuccessful. However, with persistence, the page began to lift off the desk, floating a few inches above it.
James noted that practicing magic seemed to make each subsequent spell easier. "It's like exercising a muscle," he mused. "The more you use it, the stronger it becomes." Encouraged, he attempted to levitate the toothpick, but it stubbornly remained grounded.
He concentrated harder, visualizing the toothpick rising, feeling its weight in his mind, and after a few moments of intense focus, the toothpick finally lifted into the air. With growing confidence, James made it dance lightly in the air, guiding it with the tip of his wand.
When he finally glanced at the clock, it was already 11 PM. Exhausted but content with his progress, James stifled a yawn and headed to bed. He paused by Hedwig's cage, gently stroking her feathers. "Goodnight, Hedwig," he whispered, feeling the warmth of her presence.
As he drifted off to sleep, James's thoughts lingered on the day's successes and the challenges yet to come. He was gradually mastering the basics of magic, but the road ahead was still long and filled with uncertainty. Yet, with each spell, each tiny victory, he was getting closer to understanding the true potential of his abilities.
After waking up in the morning, James felt a deep hunger, prompting him to head for breakfast. It had only been two days since he arrived in this world, but now, his soul and body were fully synchronized. He noticed that the more he used magic, the more fatigued and hungry he became. Constant practice seemed to amplify his appetite, which explained why most wizards weren't overweight—only those who didn't practice or seldom used magic tended to carry extra pounds. "Good to know," he thought. "If I'm going to be practicing magic regularly, I'll need to manage my food intake properly."
Returning to where he left off yesterday, James pondered the potential of his newfound abilities. "I can levitate a toothpick and make it dance in the air, so if I can also levitate a silver needle, it could be used as an attack. Imagine being in the middle of a fight, and suddenly, a silver needle flies into your eye, mouth, or ear. That would cause significant damage. And if the needle moved fast enough, it might even penetrate someone's skull."
Determined to test this theory, James began practicing levitating silver needles. It was considerably more challenging than levitating a toothpick. After some time, he managed to keep the needle airborne for only a few moments.
He reflected on the fact that Wingardium Leviosa was a first-year spell. Since his body was that of a third-year Harry Potter, the spell seemed easier to him. But to effectively use the needle as an attack, it would need to hit the target precisely. With this in mind, James drew a target on a nearby wall and practiced guiding the levitating needle toward it. Unfortunately, the needle consistently missed the mark. After several attempts, James realized that controlling the needle's direction was far more difficult than it appeared. "If this is going to work, it'll require months of practice," he mused. Resolving to make this a daily routine, he decided to rest for a few minutes.
After a short break, James prepared for other tasks on his list. Suddenly, Dobby appeared, excitedly exclaiming, "Great wizard James Potter! Dobby has collected all the materials from the list you gave Dobby—from the black market!"
James praised Dobby for his excellent work. He knew he needed to brew a potion today, as Hermione and Ron were arriving tomorrow, and he was returning to Hogwarts the day after. However, brewing potions in his room was too risky; any unexpected reaction could alert others in the inn. He needed a safer, more secluded location.
James asked Dobby if he could teleport them somewhere without being noticed. Dobby enthusiastically replied that he could teleport the great wizard James Potter anywhere.
Before leaving, James instructed Dobby to ensure that no one was spying on his room. After a brief check, Dobby assured him that, at least at that moment, no one was watching.
Satisfied, James told Dobby to teleport him to a different location. Grabbing Dobby's hand, they teleported together.
They arrived at a beach, but James quickly realized that an open area wasn't suitable for potion-making. He asked Dobby to teleport them to an enclosed space instead. Dobby then teleported them to an empty house in London.
Surveying the house, James deduced that the residents had been away for some time, as there was a layer of dust on the floor.
As James began unpacking the materials for his potion, he realized, to his embarrassment, that he had forgotten the potion-making instruments. Feeling flustered, he turned to Dobby, who was standing nearby, eager to help. "Dobby," James said sheepishly, "I forgot the instruments. Could you bring them here?"
Dobby, always ready to serve the great wizard James Potter, immediately teleported away and returned with the necessary instruments.
Given that some of the ingredients were extremely rare, James only had enough to brew the potion twice. He carefully prepared the materials according to the formula:
100 milliliters of pure water13 drops of night vanilla extract7 gold mint leaves3 drops of poison hemlock9 grams of dragon blood grass powder10 milliliters of Lavos Squid's blood50 grams of Stellar Aqua crystal
Steeling himself, James whispered, "I can do this!"
Harry carefully took a large sealed glass bottle from the table. He removed the stopper and, with great precision, poured approximately 100 milliliters of pure water into the cauldron. He was acutely aware that this potion was meant for him to drink, so every step mattered.
Next on the list was "13 drops of night vanilla juice." Harry retrieved a tiny brown bottle from the silver chest and, using a pipette, meticulously added 13 drops into the cauldron. A faint, soothing fragrance wafted through the air, filling Harry with an unexpected sense of peace.
Following that, the formula called for "7 gold mint leaves." Harry picked up a silver-patterned can, removed the lid, and with his bare hands, carefully selected a few leaves before scattering them into the cauldron. The fresh, invigorating scent that arose was unmistakable.
"4, 5, 6, 7. Perfect," Harry murmured as he counted the leaves.
He glanced back at the potion formula. "3 drops of poison hemlock."
Dobby, who had been observing, suddenly interjected, "Great wizard Harry Potter, this is very poisonous. Dark wizards use it to kill."
Harry nodded in acknowledgment, then carefully swapped pipettes and added three drops of poison hemlock into the cauldron. The mixture emitted a strange odor, one that oddly sharpened his focus.
The next ingredient was "9 grams of dragon blood grass powder." Harry reached into the silver chest and pulled out a transparent test tube containing a deep black powder. Using a beaker and a scale, he measured exactly 9 grams of the powder and added it to the cauldron, stirring the mixture twice with a dark wood ladle.
"The earlier ingredients were just supplements," Harry muttered to himself. "Their exact amounts don't really impact the final result."
He knew the last two ingredients were crucial. "The amounts can be slightly adjusted, but they can't stray too far from what's required, or the potion's effect could be ruined. Even a slight excess could cause severe mental issues, or worse."
With utmost care, Harry gently retrieved a black glass bottle from the silver chest.
Dobby's voice broke the silence again, "Lavos Squid's blood, 10 milliliters. This squid is a rare, mutated species, shrouded in mystery. Its blood breaks down rapidly in sunlight, so it must be stored in opaque containers."
Harry nodded as he carefully drew out 10 milliliters of the vivid blue blood using a test tube. The liquid seemed to produce tiny, illusory bubbles, as though it was connected to another realm.
As the blue blood hit the cauldron's mixture, it produced a bubbling sound, and the surrounding light took on a light blue hue, giving Harry a peculiar sense of both distance and familiarity. It was reminiscent of the feeling of being in a mother's womb, a sensation that seemed to elevate the soul.
"Now for the final ingredient, the Stellar Aqua crystal—50 grams," Harry said, holding up a piece of exceptionally pure crystal. The crystal, gelatinous in appearance and lacking hardness, reflected bits of light under the blue illumination, revealing what looked like a star-filled void within its core.
"This would make an excellent divination crystal," Harry mused as he carefully measured the crystal, using a tiny silver blade to cut out the exact amount needed.
"Pure water, night vanilla, gold mint leaves, poison hemlock juice, dragon blood grass powder, Lavos Squid blood, and Stellar Aqua crystal… together they form the Seer's potion," Harry recalled the formula as he worked.
With everything ready, Harry added the measured chunks of Stellar Aqua crystal into the cauldron.
Sizzle!
An illusory fog burst forth instantly, shrouding the alchemy room in a thick blur. Through the haze, Harry felt as though he was glimpsing a vast expanse of stars and sensed the presence of an invisible observer.
A few seconds later, the fog dissipated. Harry used the dark wood ladle to scoop out the thick, dark-blue liquid. It had a peculiar consistency—gooey and inseparable, with not a trace left in the black cauldron.
He carefully poured the potion into a cup, watching the liquid settle.
"It's done," Harry said quietly to himself, a note of satisfaction in his voice. "My Seer's potion."
Harry stared at the dark-blue gelatinous liquid, unsure if it was better described as a solid block or a viscous cup of liquid. He swallowed nervously, struggling to ask, "Am I really supposed to drink this?"
At the same time, Dobby, watching with wide eyes, asked, "Great wizard Harry Potter, are you sure you want to drink this? It looks very poisonous to me."
Harry glanced at Dobby and nodded. "Poisonous? Yes, it's dangerous to drink, but it will grant me mysterious powers…"
He then instructed Dobby to bring some water to wash his hands. Harry felt the weight of the opaque cup in his hand. The potion's aroma was faint and elusive, almost otherworldly.
With a silent nod, Harry took a deep breath. Reminded of his childhood, he pinched his nose as if he were drinking foul-tasting medicine. He raised the cup to his mouth and, without hesitation, gulped it down.
The cool, smooth liquid filled his mouth, then slid down his throat and into his stomach. The sticky, dark-blue substance seemed to sprout thin, long tendrils that sent waves of cold and strange stimulation through every cell in his body.
Harry couldn't help but convulse as his vision blurred. Colors around him began to intensify—the reds became redder, the blues bluer, and the blacks blacker. The vibrant hues blended together like an impressionist painting.
He had never seen anything like it before.
As his vision continued to blur, his mind felt light yet strangely clear. It was as though he was a castaway floating aimlessly in an endless sea.
Slowly, his surroundings began to take shape. The colors returned to their original shades, though a grayish, blurry fog persisted. Around him, there were strange, indescribable forms—transparent objects that seemed almost non-existent. Deep within, there were clusters of light in different colors, as if these lights held life or immense knowledge.
As Harry instinctively looked down, he realized that 'he' was still standing in his original spot, body convulsing.
Suddenly, a realization struck him, and his consciousness quickly fused with his physical form.
Boom!
The fog dissipated abruptly, and the colors returned to normal. The bright, clear halo and the strange, inexistent objects vanished instantly.
The room returned to its ordinary state, but Harry's head felt like it was being split apart. Every sight was accompanied by countless afterimages, and his ears were assaulted by an ethereal whisper.
"Master of death… Master of death… Master of death…"
A sharp pain stabbed through his forehead, and Harry was overwhelmed with destructive thoughts as a means to relieve the discomfort.
He frowned and shook his head vigorously.
Harry realized this was the result of the potion's energy seeping into him, and he lacked the control to handle it.
"Alright," he thought, "I need to focus on a simple, common object. Something easy."
He quickly concentrated, envisioning his own glass. He recalled its texture, its shape, every detail.
As Harry focused intensely, the murmurs subsided into whispers before vanishing entirely. The afterimages stacked upon one another, resolving themselves into clarity.
"Much better," Harry muttered as he calmed his chaotic emotions and exhaled deeply.
He looked down at his body and saw nothing out of the ordinary.
He moved his limbs, half-expecting, half-doubting, as he asked himself, "Did I succeed? Am I now a Seer?"
At that moment, Dobby spoke up, "Look at your eyes, Harry."
Harry turned to Dobby and said, "Give me a mirror."
Focusing his gaze on the mirror, he saw his outline clearly, and his facial features appeared normal. Apart from the sweat covering his face, there was no visible change.
Following Dobby's advice, Harry examined his eyes closely. Only then did he notice that his green eyes had deepened considerably, taking on a color akin to fresh grass. They were so deep it felt as though they could draw in the souls of others.
Without a careful look, even Harry might not have noticed.
"This is a physical manifestation of the potion's powers," Harry said to himself. "Once I learn to control my mind and converge my power, my eyes will return to normal."
Then, looking into the mirror once more, Harry saw his reflection and whispered, "Congratulations. The world has a new Seer, a new Beyonder."
Harry said, "Now, I have to learn how to Cogitate?"
He tried to recall the relevant information. "The initial steps of Cogitation are relatively simple. It's even more so for those with magical potential," Harry remembered.
"Just now, producing an object in my mind to divert my attention and turning the energy inward was actually the first step to Cogitation," Harry said aloud to himself.
'I need to try again,' he thought.
Closing his eyes, Harry once again envisioned the halved glass in front of him. His concentration seemed to be more easily focused than before. Soon, any random thoughts that surfaced quickly vanished, leaving only the outline of the glass in his mind.
Then Harry recalled what he had read: "Let your mind go somewhat blank. Replace the object you imagined with something that does not exist in this world, something completely imagined out of thin air."
"You have to follow this rule. Only by doing so can you enter Cogitation, and only then can you transcend the concept of 'I.' The limitless 'I' will become one with the universe, granting you the ability to see and understand the truth. You will gain knowledge that only you yourself can comprehend. In the realm of mysticism, this is known as a Mystic Experience."
"Something that doesn't exist in this world… Would things from Earth count?" Harry wondered.
He attempted to use the image of a green intercontinental missile he once saw on television. He replaced the glass with this long, thick missile in his mind. However, no matter how he tried to outline or imagine it, he ultimately only managed to focus his attention.
'This doesn't seem to be working…'
Harry had no choice but to let his imagination run wild. He outlined a sphere of light and then several similar objects, gathering them together. The spheres of light stacked upon one another, feeling like an object of fantasy.
Harry's thoughts gradually became ethereal and afloat. His body and mind calmed down. The objects that didn't seem to exist, the fog with bright clusters of light, and the complex colors reappeared, floating in the sky, within reach.
He extended his spirituality inch by inch, gazing at them quietly, sensing and absorbing them.
"It looks like I'm successful," Harry thought.
Afterward, Harry said, "Let's try the first ability that comes with being a Seer."
"Spirit Vision!"
He instructed Dobby, "Close the window and open the door."
This made the spot where Harry was standing dark, but not so dark that he couldn't make out the silhouettes of objects. Harry raised his hands, placing them in front of his eyes, and kept looking at his hands until his eyes adjusted to the darkness. He saw the silhouettes of his fingers and the surrounding objects.
He then focused his gaze on a spot behind his hands. Slowly, he moved his fingers, maintaining the same pose without touching them.
Harry directed his gaze to an empty spot behind his palms and slowly moved his index fingers within his vision. Once, twice, thrice… Suddenly, Harry noticed a fiery-red color between his fingers.
"Eh…" He made a sound of surprise.
Harry knew that this was the initial step to Spirit Vision. The color he saw was his aura. He repeated the process several more times.
After stabilizing it, he looked elsewhere.
"Alright," Harry muttered, moving his fingers back and forth while keeping his vision focused on the fiery-red aura.
He knew that different colors had different meanings. In simple terms, the mainstream school of mysticism divided the non-physical parts of a human into four levels. At its core was the Spirit Body, which was also the basis of everyone's spirituality.
One school of thought held that all living beings possessed spirituality and had a Spirit Body. The goal of Cogitation and the method to increase one's strength was directed toward the Spirit Body.
Beyond the Spirit Body was the Astral Projection, a means for the Spirit Body to communicate with the spirit world and stellar space, considered an external manifestation of the Spirit Body. Additionally, it was directly related to personal ambition and prevailing emotions…
The scenes Harry saw after consuming the potion were the visions his Astral Projection witnessed while wandering through the spirit world. That world didn't adhere to the laws of the physical world. It involved transcending the concept of 'I,' the limitless 'I,' and the Universe's 'I.' The past, present, and future could be stacked upon one another, and that was the source of divination.
In the spirit world, what one saw was merely imagery or symbols that needed to be interpreted to understand their true meaning.
"Divination and many magic spells are cast through the Astral Projection. One is just a body, and the other is its form…"
Harry continued to observe the aura between his fingertips and made a simple conclusion.
"Further out is the Body of Heart and Mind. From this point on, it merges with the physical body. It involves the brain and is an overall manifestation of inferential abilities, analytical skills, observational abilities, and identification abilities.
The outermost layer is the Ether Body, a manifestation of one's vital energies and physical form.
"The aura color is an external phenomenon of the Ether Body. In other words, besides spiritual beings, ghosts, and spectres, who can be directly seen with Spirit Vision, it might also include certain entities that shouldn't be seen."
Harry continued, "I can also see the Ether Bodies of others or their auras. From their thickness, brightness, and color, I can determine their health and emotional state."
"As my Spirit Vision improves, I'll be able to discover even more details, possibly even determining someone's lifespan."
Harry opened his Spirit Vision and looked at Dobby, confirming that there were many spots on the house-elf's body where he was hurt.
"Dobby, why are there so many injuries on your body?" Harry asked with concern. "Aren't you taking care of yourself?"
"These are old injuries, Master Harry," Dobby replied. "If I take the proper medicine, they will heal."
Harry then looked around the room with Spirit Vision still active and noticed some kind of energy or fog that was rapidly diminishing. After some thought, Harry concluded, "This must be magic itself."
"So with Spirit Vision, I can see magic. Perhaps it should be called Magic Vision," he mused.
"Dobby, is the magic level in this room always this high?" Harry asked.
"When we teleported into this room, the magic level wasn't this high," Dobby replied. "But when Great Wizard Harry drank the potion, the magic level began to increase. Now it has returned to normal."
Harry realized that the potion had drawn a massive amount of magical energy from the surrounding area.
"Next time I take a potion, it should be in a magic-rich location," Harry noted to himself.
He then wondered if someone from the Ministry might notice the unusual fluctuations in magical energy and send someone to investigate.
"I need to leave quickly," Harry decided.
"Dobby, let's teleport out of here and erase any evidence that we were here."
Dobby quickly teleported all the potion-making instruments away and then transported Harry back to his room.
After arriving, Harry activated his Spirit Vision and observed his own body. He noticed that where his famous lightning scar was located, there was a black spot, and all over his body, there were old injuries that had not completely healed.
Harry thought that the black spot on his scar might be due to a fragment of Voldemort's soul, and the old injuries were a result of undernourishment from his time at the Dursleys.
"Dobby, is there a potion that can help with my undernourishment and treat these old injuries?" Harry asked.
"There are some potions that can help Great Wizard Harry," Dobby replied, "but they have side effects, like increased appetite, the need for sleep for a week, and a temporary decrease in magical ability. They're also slightly expensive."
Harry handed 25 Galleons to Dobby and instructed, "Buy the potion."
Dobby nodded and teleported out of the room.
After Dobby left, Harry thought, 'What should I do now?'
"Let's see what's different after becoming a Seer."
Harry cast Lumos, and the light produced at the tip of his wand was much brighter than before. He then began casting all the spells he knew, noticing that all of them had become more powerful and that his control over magic had improved.
Harry then pondered, 'How should I act as a Seer at school? What principles should I follow?'
He knew that courses like Astronomy, Divination, and Arithmancy would be helpful for his Seer persona. Since he was aware of the plot of the movies, he could pretend to know the future. If everyone believed he was a Seer, the Seer potion could be fully assimilated.
But first, he needed to eat something, as he was starving. After eating, he listened to the latest gossip in magical London. There was still no news of Sirius Black, and the Ministry was doing its best to catch him. Other than that, there was no significant news.
Harry then returned to his room.
He started reading his second-year books and continued for five hours before stopping.
"After becoming a Seer, my reading speed has increased, and all of the older Harry's memories have synchronized with me."
'I don't think there's much difference between the old Harry and me.'
"Let's see if I can do some divination."
'Will Hermione come tomorrow?'
Harry tossed a coin, and the result was heads.
After seeing the result, he thought of another divination.
'When will my friends arrive? Morning or afternoon?'
Harry tossed a coin again—heads for morning. But the coin stood on its side.
"Not in the morning or afternoon. So they will come at noon.."
At that time Harry begins to feel very tired so he goes to eat and then comes back and sleeps. Top of Form
Bottom of Form
After waking up, Harry felt unusually refreshed. There was no headache, nor did he hear any strange voices in his head like the original Mr. Fool.
"Today will be my ultimate test," Harry thought. "I have to prove that I am Harry Potter in front of Hermione, Ron, and the Weasleys."
"My behavior must be convincing, especially because of mind control magic," Harry reminded himself.
So, Harry began to meditate and review all his memories of interacting with his friends. After two hours of meditation and memory review, Harry thought, "That's enough for now."
At that moment, Dobby appeared in the room with a pop.
"Great wizard Harry Potter, I brought a potion that can help with your undernutrition," Dobby announced.
"That was fast. Are there any side effects to this potion?" Harry asked.
Dobby nodded. "The potion has some conditions and side effects. It can only be used once and is only effective for teenagers. After drinking it, your food intake will double."
"These are the conditions and side effects," Dobby explained.
"I meet all the conditions, and eating extra food isn't a problem," Harry said.
"How do I drink this potion?" Harry asked.
"The great wizard Harry Potter can simply drink it," Dobby replied.
So, Harry drank the potion. Afterward, he activated his spirit vision to observe the changes in his body. He saw the potion absorbed within minutes. Slowly, the surrounding magic began to seep into his body.
Harry realized that the potion needed energy to work, so in addition to magic, he would need to eat more to provide the extra energy.
Feeling hungry already, Harry said, "Goodbye, Dobby! See you tomorrow at Hogwarts."
After that, Harry went down for breakfast, ordering twice his usual amount of food. After eating, he returned to his room to clear his mind. He reviewed what he had learned from his first- and second-year spellbooks.
"I don't have much time now. Hermione, Ron, and the Weasleys will arrive at noon," Harry reminded himself. "After that, I won't have any time. Ron will be telling his travel stories, and his rat will probably be fighting with Hermione's cat. And then there's the whole Sirius Black drama."
"Let's see what's in the third-year books," Harry mused. "I'm not touching the Monster Book of Monsters for now. Let's start with a Divination book."
After reading the Divination book for a while, Harry took a break. He thought, "This Divination technique is definitely different from the Lord of Mysteries."
"I'll have to study more to see which techniques work for me. I've already tested coin tossing; now I need to see if the pendulum technique works."
"Let's read some other books, and I'll definitely borrow a few from Hermione for the other subjects," Harry decided.
Harry read another third-year magic book until lunchtime, then went to eat. After lunch, he waited for his friends and mentally prepared himself for their arrival.
"I can do this," Harry told himself.
After what felt like an eternity to Harry, he finally saw his friends arrive.
"It's the moment of truth," Harry said to himself.
First came Hermione, then the others.
As soon as Hermione saw Harry, she ran toward him.
Seeing her approach, Harry braced himself for Hermione's famous bone-cracking hug.
Hermione reached Harry and wrapped him in a tight embrace.
"How are you?" Hermione asked. "After reading Ron's letter, I was so worried about you. Is everything alright? Did the Ministry give you any trouble?"
She bombarded Harry with questions.
"I'm alright. The Ministry didn't trouble me; they actually helped fix my problem," Harry replied.
Just then, Harry saw Ron and the rest of the Weasleys come into view.
"How are you doing, Harry?" Mrs. Weasley asked before pulling him into a warm hug.
Ron and his brothers greeted Harry, and even Ginny asked how he was doing.
"Hi, I'm totally fine," Harry assured them.
Then he asked, "How was your trip to Egypt?"
Ron showed Harry a picture from the newspaper. It was a photo of his entire family in Egypt.
When Harry saw the picture, he noticed Scabbers, Ron's pet rat, in the corner. Harry thought, "The infamous rat in the photo, the cause of a prison break."
After showing the picture, Ron began describing Egypt. He talked about how beautiful it was, the fascinating things to see like the pyramids and mummies, and shared his experiences.
At that moment, Harry noticed a cat chasing Ron's pet rat. Ron quickly rushed over and scooped up Scabbers to save him.
Ron called out to Hermione, "Hermione! You need to control your cat."
"If your cat goes after Scabbers again, I'll turn it into a mug," Ron threatened.
Hermione replied, "It's a cat; it's in her nature to chase after a rat."
Harry thought, "If I don't intervene, they'll argue for hours."
So Harry stepped between them and said, "Let's stop this and head to my room."
Once the three friends were in Harry's room, Hermione asked, "Tell us what happened at your aunt's house, Harry."
"What did the Ministry of Magic do about it?"
Harry recounted, "Marge Dursley, my uncle's sister, insulted my dead parents. I got so angry that accidental magic happened, and Aunt Marjorie blew up like a balloon and floated into the sky. I was scared, so I ran away from the house."
Harry then told them about his journey on the Knight Bus and explained how one could summon it.
Then Harry asked Hermione, "Which elective subjects are you taking this year?"
Hermione glanced at Harry and Ron and quietly replied, "I'm taking all the subjects available."
Ron stared at Hermione in disbelief and said, "Only you could do something like that, Hermione."
Harry thought, "So far, nothing has changed with Hermione taking all the elective subjects, so it's highly likely that she has the Time-Turner."
Harry said, "I'm only taking two subjects: Care of Magical Creatures and Divination."
"I tried to read the Care of Magical Creatures textbook, but the book itself is a monster."
"So I've only been reading Divination books and trying to practice some Divination."
"Like predicting when you'd arrive."
"And the result was spot on."
Ron exclaimed, "Harry, that's amazing!"
"You've got a talent for Divination."
Hermione asked, "Harry, you have to tell me how you managed to do this. Have you performed any other Divination?"
Harry told Hermione that the only Divination he had done was to predict when she and Ron would arrive, using the coin-tossing technique.
After two coin tosses, he correctly predicted that Hermione and Ron, along with his family, would arrive at the inn around noon today.
Ron said, "Mate, can you do a Divination about our journey to Hogwarts?"
"Is there going to be any trouble with the train ride?"
Before Hermione could object, Ron quickly added, "Look, Hermione, last year we had a problem. The barrier was closed, and we had to get to Hogwarts by flying car."
Harry thought, "I know the outcome; there will be trouble, and it'll be significant."
"Let's try," Harry said.
He tossed a coin while Hermione and Ron watched with anticipation.
Harry thought, "I need to keep this up for the Seer potion to fully take effect."
He then announced, "The result shows there will be some trouble."
Harry decided to use the pendulum for another Divination. He asked, "Is there any danger for us on the journey to Hogwarts?"
The three of them watched as the pendulum swung counterclockwise at a moderate speed.
Harry interpreted, "From what I know, there's a moderate danger—something dangerous, but not extreme."
Hermione seemed skeptical, and Ron looked increasingly nervous.
Hermione suggested, "We need to be careful. If there's any danger, we should stick together and protect each other."
Harry agreed, "We have to stay vigilant; anything could happen at any time."
After that, they discussed what they'd been doing during the holidays, how much studying and homework they had completed.
Eventually, Hermione and Ron went back to their own rooms.
Harry thought to himself, "I need to prepare for tomorrow."
Harry sat on his bed, trying to recall his happiest memory to cast the Patronus Charm. He knew he had to master this spell; it was the only way he would be able to fend off Dementors if they came too close.
"Expecto Patronum," Harry said firmly, focusing all his energy on that joyful moment.
A bright, silvery light burst from his wand, and a sleek, agile form began to take shape. Before him stood a fox, its sharp eyes gleaming with intelligence and its movements quick and graceful.
The fox, darting through the air with nimble elegance, symbolized Harry's resourcefulness and his ability to outwit even the most formidable challenges. Its presence brought a sense of alertness and cleverness, embodying his capacity to navigate the complex and dangerous world he found himself in.
Harry gazed at the fox Patronus with a mix of amusement and irony. "A fox," he mused aloud, a small smile tugging at his lips. "How fitting."
The fox, with its sly demeanor and quick wit, seemed to mirror Harry's own journey—a path that required cunning, adaptability, and a certain level of mischief to survive. It was almost as if the Patronus was mocking him, reminding him that he was now playing the part of Harry Potter, the Boy Who Lived.
"Adapting to this new identity, playing the hero," Harry continued, his smile turning wry. "It's like a grand jest, isn't it? Navigating through a world of magic and prophecies, all while pretending to be someone I'm not."
The irony wasn't lost on him. In his previous life, he had been known for his cleverness, always able to think on his feet. Now, thrust into a world of magic and intrigue, he found himself relying on those same qualities to make sense of his new reality.
"Maybe my Patronus is a reminder," Harry pondered, his expression growing thoughtful. "A reminder that sometimes, you have to embrace the role of the fool—the one who's bold, unconventional, and willing to take risks."
The idea of being a clever fool, with a fox as his Patronus, seemed almost poetic. It was a symbol of his journey so far, the choices he had made, and the paths he had taken.
"Well," Harry said with renewed determination, "if I'm to be a fool, then I'll be the cleverest fool this world has ever seen."
With that thought, Harry felt a surge of purpose. His fox Patronus would guide him through the challenges ahead, reminding him to trust his instincts and embrace the unexpected.
After reflecting on the significance of his Patronus, Harry decided it was time to practice his magic. He knew he had only a short while before he needed to meet Hermione and Ron at the train station.
Standing in the middle of his room, wand in hand, Harry focused on honing his spellcasting skills. He started with simple spells, aiming for precision and fluidity in his movements. "Lumos," "Nox," and "Wingardium Leviosa" flowed from his wand effortlessly, each spell becoming more refined with practice.
As he continued, Harry couldn't shake the feeling of excitement mixed with apprehension about the journey ahead. The pendulum divination had warned of potential danger, and he felt a growing sense of responsibility to be prepared.
But as he practiced, his stomach began to growl, reminding him of the toll magic took on his energy reserves. He remembered reading that magical exertion could deplete energy quickly, making frequent meals essential.
"Alright," Harry muttered to himself, tucking his wand into his robes. "Better grab a snack before I go."
He quickly made his way to inn, grabbed some food, and ate it swiftly. Feeling more energized, he ensured he had everything he needed before heading out. He packed his trunk and set off for the train station, eager to reunite with his friends and embark on the next leg of their journey.
The Hogwarts Express chugged along the tracks, carrying James, Ron, and Hermione back to school. They found an empty compartment near the back of the train and settled in. James noticed a figure slumped in the corner, fast asleep. The man looked shabby, his robes patched and worn, yet there was a certain calmness about him.
"Who's that?" Ron whispered.
Hermione peered over her book. "I think that's Professor Lupin. He's the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher."
James's curiosity piqued. Using his Spirit Vision, he sensed a strong yet calm aura around Lupin, an unusual combination that hinted at deep reserves of power and experience.
As the train moved through the countryside, the trio chatted about their summer and speculated about their new teacher. James felt a strange connection to Lupin, almost like he was meant to learn from him. He also couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation, knowing what was about to happen.
Before they had boarded the train, Mr. Weasley had pulled James aside, his face serious. "James, there's something you need to know," he had said in a low voice. "Sirius Black is dangerous. If you hear anything or see anything out of the ordinary, you must tell a teacher immediately. Promise me you'll be careful."
"I promise," James had replied, his mind already racing with thoughts of what might lie ahead.
"I still can't believe your prediction, James," Ron said now, glancing nervously out the window. "Medium danger, you said?"
"Yeah," James replied, trying to keep his voice steady. "But we'll be prepared."
Hermione nodded. "It makes sense with Sirius Black on the loose. The Ministry will be on high alert, especially with Dementors patrolling."
Just then, the compartment door slid open, and Neville stepped in. "Hey, James, Hermione, Ron," he greeted with a smile. "Mind if I join you for a bit?"
"Of course, Neville," Hermione said, scooting over to make space.
Neville settled in and glanced at the sleeping figure in the corner. "Who's that?" she asked.
"Professor Lupin," Ron said. "Our new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher."
Neville's eyes widened. "He looks... interesting."
James chuckled. "Yeah, I think he will be."
As they continued to chat with Neville, the sky darkened. Suddenly, the train jolted to a stop, and an eerie chill spread through the compartment. James felt a cold dread seep into his bones, but it was less intense than before. His Beyonder power and strong soul seemed to shield him from the worst effects.
"What's happening?" Ron asked, his breath visible in the frigid air.
Before anyone could respond, the compartment door slid open again. Cloaked figures floated inside, their skeletal hands reaching out. Dementors. James's heart pounded as memories of his past life and Voldemort surged into his mind, but he remained more composed than the others.
"Expecto Patronum!" James shouted, his voice steadier than he expected. He raised his wand, and this time, a shimmering silver mist burst forth, taking the form of a powerful fox. The Patronus charged at the Dementors, driving them away.
James's head buzzed with the aftermath, but he managed to stay on his feet. Neville, who had just entered the compartment, collapsed to the floor, shaking and gasping for breath. The fear in his eyes mirrored the terror James had felt inside.
Suddenly, a brilliant light filled the compartment. James managed to look up and saw Lupin standing, his wand pointed at the Dementors. A silver Patronus, in the form of a powerful wolf, charged at the Dementors, driving them away.
James collapsed into his seat, shivering uncontrollably. Lupin approached and handed him and Neville each a piece of chocolate.
"Eat this," Lupin said gently. "It'll help."
James took the chocolate, his hands shaking. As he ate, warmth slowly returned to his body, and his head cleared. Lupin's presence was reassuring, but James couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more to his new teacher.
"Thank you, Professor," James managed to say.
Lupin smiled kindly. "You're welcome. You handled yourself well."
Neville, still pale and trembling, managed a weak smile as he nibbled on his chocolate. "Thanks, Professor."
The train resumed its journey, but the encounter left everyone on edge. Ron, Hermione, and Neville were talking animatedly, their words a blur to James. He stared out the window, trying to process what had just happened. The fear, the cold, the memories—it all felt too real.
James decided he needed to know more about Lupin. His Spirit Vision had shown him that Lupin was no ordinary wizard. Perhaps he could help James understand and control his new abilities.
As they approached Hogwarts, the familiar sight of the castle brought a sense of comfort. Yet, the memory of the Dementors lingered in James's mind, a chilling reminder of the dangers ahead. He resolved to speak to Lupin as soon as possible, seeking the guidance he desperately needed.
The train pulled into Hogsmeade station, and students began to disembark. Hagrid's booming voice called out to the first-years, but James barely registered it. His thoughts were focused on Lupin and the terrifying encounter with the Dementors.
As they stepped onto the platform, James glanced back at the train, a sense of foreboding settling in his chest. The Dementors' attack was a sign of the dark times to come. He knew he had to be prepared, and for that, he needed all the help he could get—starting with Professor Lupin.
The journey to the castle felt longer than usual, each step filled with anticipation and unease. James clutched the chocolate Lupin had given him, a small comfort in the growing darkness. He was ready to face whatever came next, but the looming threat of the Dementors hung over him like a shadow.
Little did he know, this was just the beginning. The real challenges lay ahead, and James would need all his strength and cunning to overcome them. As the castle doors closed behind him, he couldn't shake the feeling that something even more sinister was waiting in the shadows.
On the Hogwarts Express, James's thoughts raced as the train journeyed onward toward Hogsmeade Station. The encounter with the Dementors had left a lingering impact, reinforcing his determination to explore his newfound abilities as a Seer, especially after the profound lessons from Professor Lupin.
The platform at Hogsmeade bustled with excitement as students and families disembarked, eager for the new school year. James couldn't help but notice the magical aura that enveloped Hogwarts and its surroundings, enhanced by his Spirit Vision, which subtly revealed the intricate web of magic flowing through everything around him.
Amidst the crowd, James caught sight of the Thestrals, their ethereal forms pulling the carriages with an otherworldly grace. Memories from his previous life and the movies flooded his mind—the knowledge that these creatures were visible only to those who had witnessed death firsthand. The realization struck him deeply, a reminder of the mysteries and hardships intertwined in the wizarding world.
Draco Malfoy's disdainful voice broke through James's reverie as he remarked loudly about James's presence to his friends. Unfazed, James focused on the Thestrals, pondering their significance and the secrets they represented.
Beside him, Hermione noticed his distraction and followed his gaze toward the carriages. "What are you looking at, Harry?" she asked, her brow furrowed in curiosity.
James turned to her, his mind racing with thoughts of the Thestrals and the implications of his Spirit Vision. "Thestrals," he replied quietly, recalling his otherworldly knowledge. "Magical creatures... only visible to those who have witnessed death."
Hermione's eyes widened in understanding. "Oh," she murmured softly, absorbing the information.
"It's alright," James reassured her with a faint smile. He knew Hermione hadn't encountered such experiences in her life. "Let's get Neville to the hospital wing."
Neville Longbottom, visibly struggling, caught James's attention. Concerned, James moved quickly to support him. "Are you alright, Neville?" he asked, his voice filled with worry.
Neville shook his head weakly. "I... I think I need to go to the hospital wing," he mumbled.
James exchanged a concerned glance with Ron and Hermione. "We'll take you there," Hermione said firmly, guiding Neville toward the nearest carriage.
Inside the carriage, Neville leaned back with a sigh of relief. The atmosphere was tense, everyone still on edge from the Dementor encounter. Ron, his usual bravado diminished, glanced at James.
"Harry," Ron began hesitantly, "how did you manage to stop the Dementors? That Patronus was incredible."
Hermione nodded, her curiosity piqued despite her evident unease. "Yes, harry, that was advanced magic. How did you do it?"
James glanced at both of them, his mind whirling with thoughts of the Seer's acting method. He knew he needed to maintain an air of mystery. "I'll explain everything later," he said mysteriously, a faint smile playing on his lips. "There's more to it than you think."
Ron and Hermione exchanged puzzled and concerned looks but didn't press further. James knew he needed to keep up the act to maintain the mystique of his Seer abilities. The secrets he held were not just about survival but also about understanding the deeper currents of magic that flowed through their world.
As they rode towards Hogwarts, James's thoughts returned to the Seer potion he had brewed. How was he to digest its effects, and what insights could it unlock? His mind raced with questions about the visions he might experience and the deeper understanding of magic that awaited him.
With Hermione's revelation about the Time-Turner and the presence of the artifact he had encountered, James knew this year at Hogwarts would be unlike any other. Just as they approached the towering gates of Hogwarts Castle, a voice called out from the grounds.
"Miss Granger, could you come here for a moment?"
Hermione froze, her eyes widening in nervous apprehension. Beside her, James remained calm, his mind racing with possibilities. He knew the significance of this call, sensing that it might be related to the Time-Turner and their plans.
…
As Harry, Ron, and Hermione entered the Great Hall for the welcome feast, the air buzzed with excitement and chatter. The enchanted ceiling reflected the starry night sky outside, adding a touch of magic to the atmosphere. However, Harry's mind was still preoccupied with the Dementor encounter and his growing abilities as a Seer.
Dumbledore stood up, commanding immediate silence. His eyes twinkled behind his half-moon glasses as he surveyed the students. "Welcome, all of you, to another year at Hogwarts," he began, his voice warm and reassuring. "Before we begin our feast, I must address a matter of grave importance."
The hall grew even quieter, with students hanging on Dumbledore's every word. Harry noticed the familiar figures of Professor McGonagall and Professor Snape looking unusually serious.
"As many of you are aware, we had an unexpected visit from the Dementors while you were on the Hogwarts Express," Dumbledore continued, his tone grave. "The Dementors are here on Ministry orders to guard the castle and the grounds, as Sirius Black, a dangerous fugitive, is at large."
Murmurs spread through the hall at the mention of Sirius Black. Harry glanced at Ron, who looked equally concerned. The encounter with the Dementors had already left a mark on them, and now the threat felt even more real.
"The Dementors are here for our protection," Dumbledore said, raising his voice slightly to be heard over the growing whispers. "However, they are not creatures to be trifled with. They are capable of causing severe distress and even harm to those who come into close contact with them. I urge you all to take utmost care and avoid them at all costs."
A shiver ran down Harry's spine as he recalled the cold dread of the Dementor's presence. He knew he had to stay vigilant, not just for himself but for his friends as well.
Dumbledore's gaze swept across the hall, his expression serious. "If any of you feel unwell or need assistance, do not hesitate to seek help from a teacher or staff member. Your safety is our priority."
As Dumbledore resumed his seat, the hall buzzed with anxious conversation. The feast began, but the usual cheer was somewhat dampened by the ominous news. Harry picked at his food, his thoughts a whirlwind of concerns about Sirius Black, the Dementors, and his own growing powers.
After the feast, Harry and Ron made their way back to the Gryffindor common room. As they settled into the cozy armchairs by the fire, Ron broke the silence. "Harry, that Patronus you conjured on the train – how did you manage that? It was amazing!"
Harry leaned back, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I had a dream last night," he began, choosing his words carefully. "In the dream, I was attacked by a Dementor. I used the Patronus Charm to defend myself. When I woke up, I decided to try it for real. It took a few attempts, but eventually, it worked."
Ron looked at Harry with awe. "Blimey, Harry! That's incredible! You're like some kind of wizarding prodigy."
Harry appreciated Ron's support. "Thanks, Ron. We'll all need to be prepared. I can show you how to do it, but it will take practice."
Just then, Hermione entered the common room, looking slightly flustered. She joined them by the fire, her face a mask of curiosity and concern. "Sorry I'm late," she said, avoiding Harry's knowing gaze.
Harry knew why Hermione had been called away, but he kept that to himself. "No problem, Hermione. We were just talking about the Dementor encounter and the Patronus Charm."
Hermione nodded, eager to change the subject. "Harry, that Patronus was amazing. How did you learn it?"
Harry repeated his story about the dream and practicing the charm. Hermione listened intently but did not press further about her absence.
"Harry, you have to teach us," Hermione said, her determination clear. "We need to be able to defend ourselves."
Ron nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Harry. We can't always rely on you to save us."
Harry smiled at his friends. "Of course, I'll teach you. But it will take practice and patience."
As the night wore on, they discussed strategies and ways to protect themselves from the Dementors. Harry shared what he remembered from his dream about the Patronus Charm and the powerful memory he used to conjure it. His friends listened intently, their determination growing with each passing moment.
Finally, they decided to call it a night. As Harry lay in bed, his mind raced with thoughts of the challenges ahead. He knew that this year at Hogwarts would be unlike any other. The presence of the Dementors, the threat of Sirius Black, and his own evolving powers as a Seer all pointed to a year filled with danger and discovery.
But Harry was ready. With his friends by his side and the guidance of his teachers, he knew he could face whatever lay ahead. As he drifted off to sleep, the words of Dumbledore echoed in his mind: "Your safety is our priority."
He was determined to stay safe and protect those he cared about, no matter the cost. And with that resolve, Harry fell into a deep, dreamless sleep, ready to face the new school year and the challenges it would bring.
The first rays of dawn filtered through the windows, casting a warm glow on the sleeping forms of Harry, Ron, Neville, Dean, and Seamus. Harry lay awake, contemplating the day ahead. His mind was a whirlwind of thoughts about his classes and the Seer potion he had consumed in secret.
Quietly slipping out of bed, Harry retrieved his robes and school supplies. The faint creaking of the wooden floorboards echoed softly as he made his way to the common room. The fire had burned down to embers, adding a sense of tranquility to the room. He sat down, taking a moment to collect his thoughts.
The Seer potion's effects were manifesting in subtle ways. His dreams were more vivid, his intuition sharper. But to fully grasp its potential, he needed to embody the Seer's role completely. He began to outline a plan in his mind.
First, he would maintain an enigmatic presence, his calm exterior hinting at inner wisdom. Practicing this during interactions with his classmates and teachers would ensure his new persona became second nature. Harry imagined himself moving with grace, his words carrying a subtle weight.
Next, he would develop an introspective gaze, using his Spirit Vision to focus on the deeper layers of magic and the people around him. Observing his surroundings and honing his ability to read subtle energies would be crucial. Harry pictured himself gazing into flames, seeing visions that guided him.
Harry also knew he needed to perfect his subtle reactions, responding with nuanced expressions that suggested he was processing more information than he let on. Practicing in front of a mirror would refine his ability to convey depth without words. He imagined himself nodding thoughtfully, his eyes sparkling with hidden knowledge.
Directness was key; he would be straightforward in his interactions, giving clear and concise answers when necessary. This would require honing his communication skills. Harry envisioned himself speaking with clarity, his words cutting through confusion.
Furthermore, Harry would use metaphors and allegories to share his insights, suggesting deeper truths. Studying ancient texts and literature would enrich his vocabulary. He imagined himself weaving tales that captivated his audience, hiding secrets in plain sight.
Active engagement was crucial; he would participate in discussions and activities, demonstrating his insights through action. Taking a hands-on approach would show his knowledge through practical application. Harry pictured himself leading a group project, inspiring his peers.
Finally, Harry would use his body language to convey inner awareness, adopting thoughtful gestures and postures. Remaining calm and composed, even in chaos, would convey stability and wisdom. He imagined himself standing tall, his eyes shining with quiet confidence.
Satisfied with his plan, Harry felt a sense of determination and purpose. He knew embodying the Seer would be challenging, but it was necessary. He glanced at the clock and realized it was almost time for breakfast.
As he made his way to the Great Hall, Harry ran through his plan, preparing for the day. The castle was waking up, the chatter of students growing louder. He joined Ron, Hermione, and Neville, maintaining his calm demeanor. The conversation flowed easily, with Harry sharing his insights with newfound clarity.
"Harry, are you alright?" Hermione asked, noticing his thoughtful expression.
Harry smiled faintly. "I'm fine, Hermione. Just thinking about the day ahead."
Ron looked at Harry curiously. "You seem different, mate. More... serious."
Harry nodded. "I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. There's a lot we need to prepare for this year."
"Yeah, especially with Sirius Black on the loose," Neville added anxiously.
The mention of Sirius Black sent a ripple of unease through the group. They all knew the gravity of the situation, and it weighed heavily on their minds.
As they entered the Great Hall, the scent of freshly baked bread and sizzling bacon wafted through the air. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Harry joined his friends at the Gryffindor table, maintaining his calm demeanor. The conversation flowed easily, with Harry sharing his insights with clarity.
Students whispered about the escaped convict, their voices a mixture of fear and curiosity. The news of Sirius Black's escape had cast a pall over the start of the school year.
They finished breakfast and made their way to the Gryffindor common room to collect their timetables. The students gathered around the notice board where the schedules were pinned.
"Look, there's our schedule," Hermione said, pointing to the parchment.
They huddled around, checking their classes.
"First up is Transfiguration with Professor McGonagall," Hermione read out loud.
"Excellent," Ron said. "I can't wait to see what Hagrid's got planned for us."
Harry scanned the schedule, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. His third-year classes included Transfiguration, Defence Against the Dark Arts with Professor Lupin, Potions with Snape, Care of Magical Creatures, and Divination with Professor Trelawney. The prospect of learning more about Divination intrigued him.
"We'd better get going," Hermione urged. "We don't want to be late for Transfiguration."
As they headed to their first class, Harry felt a renewed sense of purpose. Each lesson would be an opportunity to practice his acting method and delve deeper into his abilities. The path ahead was filled with challenges, but he was ready to face them head-on.
Harry entered Professor Snape's Potions class, his heart beating slightly faster as Snape's piercing gaze followed him. The air was thick with the earthy aroma of ingredients and the faint, acrid tang of brewing potions. Hermione was already seated at a nearby workbench, her eyes fixed intently on the ingredients laid out before her, meticulously arranging them in the order of their use.
Today's assignment was to brew a Confusing Concoction, a complex potion that required precise measurements and a deep understanding of how the ingredients interacted with one another. Harry's knowledge of chemistry from his previous life proved useful as he carefully measured out the ingredients, his mind visualizing the molecular structures and how they would react with one another. He recalled the intricate balance of acids and bases, the careful control of temperatures needed to coax the right reactions.
As he added the final ingredient, he activated his Spirit Vision to observe Snape's and Hermione's auras. Snape's aura was dark and brooding, tinged with an undercurrent of grudging respect as he observed Harry's meticulous work. Hermione's aura glowed with focused determination, her mind sharp and analytical as she prepared her own potion.
A flash of magic vision accompanied Harry's final addition of ingredients, showing him the intricate dance of molecules combining, the colors swirling together in a mesmerizing display. The potion began to bubble and emit a faint glow, and Harry knew he had succeeded.
Hermione glanced over, her eyes widening slightly in approval.
Snape's voice cut through the air, sharp and unforgiving. "Potter, if you think you've managed to brew a competent potion, bring it here."
Harry carefully lifted the cauldron and walked to Snape's desk, feeling the weight of every step under Snape's scrutinizing stare.
Snape examined the potion, his expression inscrutable. After a moment, he gave a curt nod. "Adequate," he said, his voice devoid of praise but not entirely dismissive.
Harry returned to his seat, a small sense of victory warming him. He caught Hermione's smile and Ron's encouraging thumbs-up from across the room.
Divination Class
After Potions, Harry climbed the spiral staircase to the Divination classroom at the top of the North Tower. The scent of incense filled the air, mingling with the soft glow of candlelight that bathed the room in a warm, flickering light. The atmosphere was thick with mysticism, the walls adorned with rich tapestries and shelves lined with crystal balls and other arcane tools.
Ron was already seated at a small, round table, with a crystal ball in the center. He looked up as Harry entered, rolling his eyes dramatically. "Here we go, mate. More doom and gloom from Trelawney."
Trelawney's ethereal voice called out as Harry entered, "Ah, Harry, come join us. Today, we shall delve into the mysteries of the crystal ball."
Harry took his seat, the plush cushions and dim lighting creating a surreal atmosphere.
As Trelawney explained the rules of divination and how to use the crystal ball, Hermione suddenly appeared in the class, startling Ron.
"Hermione? Weren't you just...?" he stammered, looking at the spot she had been moments before.
Hermione blushed and quickly glanced away. "Oh, you must be seeing things, Ron," she said lightly, brushing off his confusion.
Ron looked skeptical but let it go, focusing instead on Trelawney's lecture.
Trelawney continued her explanation, unaware of the interruption. "The crystal ball is a tool, a window into the future. But it is not a straightforward one. The visions it shows us are often shrouded in mystery, and it is up to us to interpret them."
Harry activated his Spirit Vision once more, gazing around the room to perceive the auras of his classmates. Ron's aura was filled with skepticism and a hint of amusement as he listened to Trelawney's lecture. Hermione's aura glowed with intellectual curiosity, her mind absorbing every detail Trelawney shared.
As Trelawney guided the class in scrying with the crystal ball, Harry focused his Spirit Vision on the ball itself. The mists within the ball swirled and parted, revealing a series of images: a dark corridor, a gleaming prophecy orb, and the silhouette of a snake.
He saw Ron and Hermione by his side, their faces determined. And then, a brief, unsettling glimpse of a graveyard, with a cold, high voice laughing...
The visions faded, and Harry looked up to see Trelawney watching him closely. "What did you see, dear?" she asked, her voice tinged with both curiosity and fear.
Harry chose his words carefully. "A dark path, a challenge ahead. But with friends by my side, I believe we can face it."
Trelawney nodded, seemingly satisfied with his answer, and moved on to another student.
Ron and Hermione exchanged glances, remembering Harry's ability to make predictions, a gift they were still trying to fully understand.
They whispered among themselves, speculating on the meaning of Harry's vision and its implications for their future.
As the class ended, Harry felt a strange mix of excitement and apprehension. The visions were becoming more intense, and the stakes were rising. But he was not alone. With Ron and Hermione, and his growing abilities, he felt ready to face whatever the future held.
The weight of his responsibilities pressed heavily on his shoulders, but he found solace in the strength of their friendship.
The three friends left the North Tower together, the day's lessons swirling in their minds. The path ahead was uncertain, but they were determined to navigate it together, their bond stronger than ever. They walked down the corridors of Hogwarts, discussing their plans and the possible interpretations of Harry's vision, aware that each step they took brought them closer to the unknown challenges that lay ahead.
The afternoon sun hung low in the sky as Harry, Ron, and Hermione descended the winding stairs from the North Tower, their minds still reeling from the peculiar Divination lesson. The scent of incense clung to their robes as they made their way across the castle grounds towards Hagrid's hut for their final class of the day: Care of Magical Creatures.
"Blimey, I'm glad that's over," Ron said, rubbing his temples. "All that crystal gazing's given me a headache."
Hermione huffed, her bushy hair bouncing as she walked. "It's all so imprecise. I much prefer subjects with real substance."
Harry remained quiet, his thoughts churning. The Divination class had been... different. Trelawney hadn't made her usual dramatic death prediction. The Boggart he faced wasn't a Dementor but a twisted version of himself. These weren't just minor variations; they were significant departures from the future he thought he knew.
"The timeline is shifting," Harry murmured to himself, careful not to alert Ron and Hermione. "But why? And how much?"
Harry's mind raced. In his original timeline, Draco had been injured by Buckbeak. But now... what would change? Who might be at risk?
As he pondered this, a new thought struck him. "I can change the future," he realized, a mix of excitement and apprehension washing over him. "But I need to be careful, calculated. Every change could have unforeseen consequences."
As the trio approached Hagrid's hut, Harry discreetly pulled out his pendulum. However, his attempt at secrecy failed as Hermione's sharp eyes caught the movement.
"Harry, what are you doing?" she whispered, nudging Ron.
Harry sighed, realizing he couldn't hide it. "I'm checking for danger," he admitted, holding the pendulum steady.
He'd found this method of divination more precise than coin flips in this magical world. Holding it steady, he focused his thoughts.
"Is there danger for me in this class?" he whispered.
The pendulum began to move, swinging in a slow, clockwise motion. Yes, but the danger seemed light.
"For my friends?"
Again, a clockwise motion, but slightly faster. Yes, with perhaps a bit more risk.
"For the other students?"
This time, the pendulum swung clockwise with moderate speed. Yes, with a medium level of danger.
Ron and Hermione exchanged worried glances as Harry whispered his questions, watching the pendulum's movements intently.
"Well?" Ron asked nervously.
"There's danger," Harry said grimly. "Light for me, a bit more for you two, and medium for the other students."
Hermione bit her lip. "Harry, how do you know these things? It's been happening more and more lately."
Harry took a deep breath, realizing this was a crucial moment. "I... I've been having visions," he said carefully. "Glimpses of possible futures. I'm not always sure what they mean, but I'm learning to trust them."
Hagrid's voice boomed across the grounds. As they approached the paddock, Harry noticed Malfoy nearby, sneering as usual.
"Alright there, Harry?" Hagrid called, giving him a friendly wave.
"Yeah, Hagrid," Harry replied with a smile, but his mind was still focused on the possible dangers ahead. "We're ready for class."
"Good, good," Hagrid said, beaming. "Got a special treat for yeh today."
Hagrid introduced the Hippogriffs, giving detailed instructions on how to approach them. Remembering his 'seer acting method,' Harry decided to take action. He approached Malfoy, his voice low but firm.
"Malfoy, a word of warning. Whatever creature Hagrid brings, show it respect. Don't do anything foolish."
Malfoy's eyes narrowed. "What are you on about, Potter?"
"Just trust me on this," Harry insisted, then turned away.
As Hagrid brought forward Buckbeak, Harry tensed, ready to intervene if necessary. Despite his earlier warning, he noticed Malfoy's eyes gleaming with malice.
"I bet you're not dangerous at all, are you?" Malfoy sneered, approaching Buckbeak despite Harry's earlier caution. "You great ugly brute—"
"Malfoy, no!" Harry shouted, but it was too late.
Buckbeak reared up, his sharp talons slashing through the air. Malfoy's scream pierced the afternoon as the Hippogriff's claws caught his arm, tearing his robes and leaving a nasty gash.
Chaos erupted. Hagrid wrestled Buckbeak back into his collar. Malfoy lay on the ground, blood blossoming on his sleeve.
"I'm dying!" Malfoy yelled as the class panicked. "It's killed me!"
As Hagrid carried Malfoy to the hospital wing, the remaining students turned to stare at Harry.
"You knew," Hermione whispered, her eyes wide. "You tried to warn him."
Ron nodded vigorously. "Blimey, Harry. First the pendulum, then the warning to Malfoy. It's like you saw it all before it happened."
Hagrid, trying to calm the class, turned to Harry. "Harry, why don't yeh show 'em how it's done? Buckbeak trusts yeh."
Harry nodded, stepping forward. He bowed deeply to Buckbeak, waiting for the creature to respond. After a tense moment, Buckbeak bowed back, allowing Harry to approach.
"Good lad," Hagrid said, grinning. "Now, climb on up. Show 'em a proper ride."
Harry mounted Buckbeak with care, feeling the powerful muscles beneath him. With a beat of Buckbeak's wings, they soared into the sky. The sensation of flying was exhilarating. The wind whipped through his hair, and the castle and grounds spread out below them like a living map.
For a few minutes, all his worries melted away. There was nothing but the thrill of the flight and the bond he felt with Buckbeak. He leaned forward, feeling the rhythm of Buckbeak's wings, the world blurring around him.
As they descended, Harry felt a deep sense of joy and freedom. Landing gracefully, he patted Buckbeak's neck. "Thank you," he whispered, a genuine smile on his face.
As they walked back to the castle, the whispers around them grew louder. Students were openly pointing and discussing Harry's apparent prophetic abilities and his impressive flight.
"Harry," Hermione said, her voice a mix of awe and concern, "your predictions are becoming more and more accurate. It's not just little things anymore. You foresaw a potentially dangerous situation and tried to prevent it."
Ron nodded in agreement. "Yeah, mate. It's like you've got some sort of... I don't know, Seer power or something. It's brilliant, but also a bit scary."
Harry felt the weight of their gazes and the responsibility of his knowledge. The timeline was changed again, and this time he was actively contributing to those changes. But now, the consequences of his actions—and inactions—were becoming clearer and more significant.
Harry thought he could see the fate that does not mean he can control the fate.
At that time, for the first time, Harry felt the clear sign of the Seer potion digestion.
Harry thought, "So, this is how potion digestion feels!"
As they entered the castle, the trio fell into a thoughtful silence. Harry could almost see the gears turning in Hermione's head, knowing she'd be researching Seers and prophetic abilities as soon as she could get to the library. Ron, for his part, looked both impressed and slightly unnerved.
Harry made a silent vow to himself. He would use his unique position to shape this world for the better, but he needed to be more careful. The future was changing, and his actions had real, sometimes dangerous consequences. Whatever came next, he knew he was no longer just a passenger in this story. He was becoming its author, for better or worse.
The Great Hall buzzed with whispers as Harry, Ron, and Hermione took their seats for dinner. The scent of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filled the air, mingling with the warm glow of floating candles and the chatter of students. News of the Hippogriff incident had spread like Fiendfyre through the castle.
"Did you hear? Potter warned Malfoy!"
"They say he can see the future..."
"How'd he know about the Hippogriff?"
Harry kept his head down, acutely aware of the curious stares. He maintained a carefully neutral expression, mindful of potential mind-readers. 'I need to research Occlumency,' he reminded himself.
"Harry," Hermione whispered, leaning close, her brow furrowed with concern, "we need to talk about what happened today. Not here, but soon."
Harry nodded, a mix of emotions roiling within him. How much could he reveal without compromising his true identity?
As he pondered this, a familiar sensation washed over him—a tingling that started at the base of his skull and spread through his body. The Seer potion was digesting, growing stronger. Harry closed his eyes, letting the feeling wash over him.
When he opened them, the Great Hall seemed... different. Shadows danced at the edges of his vision, and for a moment, he could have sworn he saw threads of fate connecting everyone in the room.
"Blimey, Harry, you alright?" Ron's voice cut through his reverie. "You look like you've seen a ghost."
Harry blinked, the world snapping back to normal. "Yeah, I'm fine," he said, forcing a smile. "Just... thinking."
As the meal progressed, Harry couldn't shake the feeling that something fundamental had changed. The future he thought he knew was slipping away, replaced by an uncharted path of his own making.