Chapter 1
Harry (Or Hadrien James Potter if you will) was sprawled out on the plush rug that covered his tiled floor. He was wearing a green oversized sweater, stolen from his godfather, and some simple black pants. In front of him was a book thicker than himself, a weird choice of entertainment for a 10-year-old but not uncommon for the boy. Since he was able to read he had been fascinated with the workings of the world. Unlike his siblings who would rather play quidditch or prank anything that breathes. Not that Harry didn’t like to play. He loved to actually. But he also has a thirst for knowledge that couldn't be put out. No matter how hard his father tried.
Harry looked up when he heard his bedroom door open. Coming in was Professor Dumbledore. The man had his signature smile and a glint in his eye that was… concerning, to say the least. Harry sighs and sits up, bookmarking his page for later and closing the book. He looks at the man unimpressed and waits for the lecture that is bound to happen.
“Harry my boy, how are you”? Harry continued to look at him for a second before caving and answering the man. “I’m alright. Just reading sir”. Dumbledore seemed to expect that answer and just nodded. He looked down at the book Harry was reading and seemed a little put-off. The book was given to him by his godfather, Sirius Black. It was called, “Runes: Advanced level learning”. It was a complicated textbook, usually only given to the 7th years at Hogwarts. The ones who want to pursue rune work anyway.
Dumbledore nodded and flicked through the pages. “Wouldn't you prefer something a bit more… simple? This seems very advanced for a boy such as yourself.” Harry just looked at the man, expression blank. “I have a knack for learning sir. I crave it actually. So this is perfectly fine. Thank you though.”. Harry stood and grabbed the book from the older man's hands. He quickly walked over to his desk and put it on top of his other current reads. He then turned around and faced the man again. “Is there something I can do for you sir? You don't usually just pop in”. Not for me anyway. The professor sighed and sat on Harry’s bed. He looked tired then and almost lost that twinkle in his eye. Almost.
“My boy, your parents are worried about you. They say you stay cooped up in here with rather… unsavory books.” Harry looked towards his bookcase. The thing was fully stocked and filled to the brim with all sorts of subjects. From magical zoology to the dark arts, the case had as many topics the boy could get his hands on. Most were from his godfather Sirius and his soulmate Remus. They were the only ones who seemed to understand him. Even though his godfather was a prankster, he seemed to understand Harry’s calm demeanor and natural talent in academics.
Harry looked back at Dumbledore and saw the man watching him closely. Giving himself a moment to collect himself, Harry then looked at the professor and smiled. “I don’t see the concern, sir. I want to be the best once I get to Hogwarts and to do that I need to study. I want to succeed. Is that wrong?” Dumbledoor seemed surprised by his answer but nevertheless smiled.
“Of course not, dear boy. I just want to make sure you aren't holding something back.” Harry had to do everything in his power not to reach for his left wrist. That same wrist that held his soulmark. He hasn't shown a single person the name printed on his wrist. Not even Sirius. He knew for sure that his parents and siblings would be furious. His godfather he wasn't so sure. While the man was morally grey in terms of magic, he was still a little more light-leaning. And even though Harry knows Sirius loves him, this is a big deal.
Harry simply smiles at Dumbledore and shakes his head. “Just trying to get a head start sir.” The old man looks at the child for a moment longer before nodding. He says his goodbyes and leaves the room. Harry sighes and slumps into himself. He gently pulled up his sweater sleeve to reveal his soulmark. How was he supposed to explain this.
The name on his wrist was one everyone knew. A simple 3 words that shook fear into the bravest. Britains current Minister of Magic,
Tom Marvelo Slytherin