The real Herry Potter

Harry sat at his desk in the Gryffindor common room, quill in hand, parchment spread before him. His thoughts flowed rapidly, eager to reach his godfather, Sirius Black. Unlike most first-year students, Harry wasn't a novice when it came to magic. He had been practicing for years, long before he ever set foot in Hogwarts, and his abilities were far beyond those of his peers, even fifth-years. But even with all his skills, there were still things he couldn't solve alone. Sirius had always been his source of support, and now, more than ever, he needed his advice.

Dipping his quill into the inkwell, he began to write.

Dear Sirius,

I hope this letter finds you well. A lot has happened at Hogwarts since I arrived, and I thought you'd want to hear all about it.

First, I've been settling into classes easily enough, though I've noticed they're all pretty basic. I've already mastered most of the spells we're covering. Transfiguration is a bit more challenging, but I've already moved ahead to non-verbal casting in some of my free time. Professor McGonagall seems to have noticed and has been giving me extra assignments to push me further, which I appreciate.

Potions, on the other hand, is more irritating than difficult. I've already brewed potions far more complex than the ones we're learning, but Snape seems determined to give me a hard time. He singles me out in every class, making it clear he doesn't like me.

Now, here's the big news—I've been recruited as the Seeker for the Gryffindor Quidditch team. I knew I had a knack for flying, but I wasn't expecting to make the team in my first year. Professor McGonagall seemed quite pleased with herself when she told me, but there's one problem: the brooms here are ancient. Even with my abilities, it's difficult to work with something that barely flies straight. Do you think you could use your influence to upgrade the school's broomsticks? I know you have sway on the Board of Governors, and a word from Lord Black might make all the difference.

I also need to tell you about something strange I discovered: there's a giant three-headed dog guarding a trapdoor in the Forbidden Corridor. Dumbledore told everyone to stay away, but you know me—curiosity got the best of me. The dog is clearly guarding something important, and I'm certain there's more going on here than we're being told. I'd investigate further, but I don't want to tip off Dumbledore or anyone else just yet. Any advice on what might be hidden under that trapdoor?

And then there's Malfoy. He's been a constant thorn in my side since day one. Recently, he challenged me to a duel. I could've easily handled him, but before I could even answer, Ron Weasley—one of my housemates—accepted the challenge on my behalf. I had no intention of wasting my time on Malfoy's petty games, so I stayed behind. Ron and a couple of others snuck out to the duel without me, and of course, they got caught by Filch. Now Gryffindor is down 150 points, and the entire house is furious with them. It's a mess, but I'm more annoyed at how Malfoy's been strutting around, bragging about his supposed cleverness.

I've learned to ignore people like him, but I'd still like to know how you'd handle it. Should I confront him head-on or continue letting him make a fool of himself?

Anyway, I've been keeping up with my private studies, and I'm exploring more of the castle. There's still so much to learn, and I know there are secrets here I haven't uncovered yet. But I'll get there. The more I practice, the more I realize how much potential I have—and I won't let anyone stand in my way.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Let me know if you've got any advice on the broomsticks or anything else I should be on the lookout for at Hogwarts.

Take care, and write back soon.

Yours,

Harry

Harry sealed the letter and gently tied it to Hedwig's leg. "Take this to Sirius, Hedwig," he whispered. "He's likely at Highgarden."

Hedwig hooted softly in acknowledgment and took off through the open window, soaring into the sky. Harry watched her fly, knowing she'd find Sirius without issue. The old cottage in Scotland was a favorite retreat of Sirius's, a place where he could stay out of the public eye but still remain close to the action. It wouldn't take long for Sirius to get the letter, and Harry was sure he'd reply swiftly.

The next morning, as Harry sat at the Gryffindor table eating breakfast, the usual flurry of owls filled the Great Hall. Letters and parcels rained down, students eagerly unwrapping their morning mail. As Harry picked at his toast, a familiar shape swooped down toward him. Hedwig glided gracefully over the table, and to Harry's surprise, beside her flew Buckbeak, the large owl he had gifted to Sirius on his birthday. The two owls flew in tandem, drawing the attention of a few nearby students.

Buckbeak was a striking sight, larger than most owls, with dark, glossy feathers and piercing eyes that exuded intelligence. Harry had chosen him for Sirius because of his strength and ability to carry large packages with ease, something Sirius appreciated with his frequent travels.

The two owls circled once before Buckbeak landed neatly in front of Harry, a large broom-shaped package in his talons. Hedwig settled beside him, carrying a letter in her beak.

Harry's heart skipped a beat as he recognized the shape of the package—it was unmistakable. He untied the letter first, his pulse quickening as he unfolded the parchment and read Sirius's familiar scrawl.

Dear Harry,

I got your letter, and as always, I'm impressed with how you're handling things at Hogwarts. It sounds like you've been keeping yourself busy—exploring the castle, getting into a bit of mischief, and even joining the Quidditch team! Congratulations on that, by the way. Joining as a first-year is no small feat; your dad would've been incredibly proud of you. He always loved Quidditch, and I'm sure he'd be grinning from ear to ear knowing you're carrying on the family tradition.

Now, as for the broomstick situation—you didn't think I'd let my godson fly around on one of those beat-up old school brooms, did you? I've sent along the Nimbus 2000 for you. I expect you'll be putting it to good use on the pitch. Play your best for Gryffindor, but don't feel too much pressure. Just remember to enjoy it. Quidditch is meant to be fun—though, I'm sure you've already figured that out.

About the old broomsticks at Hogwarts… you've got quite the ambitious mind, asking me to fix the broom situation. But here's the thing, Harry: why not take it into your own hands? You've got the skill, you've got the brains, and from what I recall, you've still got that old broom-making kit we used to mess around with during the summers. If you need new tools, let me know, and I'll have a set sent right to you. Or better yet, summon Norky, and have him bring your old kit to Hogwarts. Once you have the tools, Hagrid will be more than happy to help you gather whatever materials you need to start crafting your own brooms. Just don't go making something too fast—you don't want to outfly your teammates too much, now do you?

About that giant, three-headed dog you mentioned… Harry, I know you've got your father's curiosity—and trust me, I know that castle holds plenty of secrets—but don't go looking for trouble. Dumbledore wouldn't have put a creature like that in the castle without a good reason, and it's better to leave some things alone. Keep that adventurous mind of yours, but be careful, all right? Hogwarts is a wonderful place, but it can be dangerous too. Don't go poking your nose into things that are beyond even your magical talents.

If you ever need advice or have questions about anything (especially the castle's mysteries), don't hesitate to write. I may not be at Hogwarts, but I know that place inside and out. And while it's no Marauder's Map, a few tips from me might help you navigate things better. Just remember: not every mystery is meant to be solved by a first-year.

Take care, Harry. I'm proud of you, more than you know. Keep up the good work, but don't forget to have fun. Hogwarts is a special place, and these years are going to fly by faster than you think—pun intended.

I'll see you soon, and if you need anything, just send word. I'll be at Highgarden, but you know how quickly I can get wherever I'm needed.

All the Best,

Sirius

Harry made his way to his secret base on the seventh floor—a hidden room he had discovered and outfitted as his personal workshop, complete with a potion-making station and a workspace for his other magical projects. He was the only one who knew about it, and it had become his sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of Hogwarts life.

Standing in the center of the room, Harry called out softly, "Norky."

In an instant, the house-elf appeared with a quiet pop, bowing low. "Master Harry, how can Norky serve you?"

"I need my old broomstick-making kit," Harry said. "It's at Runestone Castle. Bring it here, please."

Norky nodded enthusiastically and disappeared with another pop. A few moments later, he returned, carrying the familiar set of carpentry tools Harry had used during the summers. The old broomstick-making kit had sentimental value—Harry had spent hours crafting small models and learning the art of broom construction with the help of Broomstick making book during his time at Runestone Castle.

"Thank you, Norky," Harry said, taking the tools from him. He ran his fingers over the well-worn handles, remembering the satisfaction of shaping the wood for his very first broom.

"Master Harry, would you like Norky to fetch the new kit from the manor?" Norky asked, tilting his head.

"No, that's all right," Harry replied. "The old one will do for now. Besides, I like using these." He smiled to himself. There was something comforting about working with the tools he was so familiar with.

With his kit in hand, Harry began to think about what he would need next. The broomstick was only as good as the materials used to craft it, and for that, he needed some help.

"Now, I need to visit Hagrid," Harry muttered to himself. He knew the groundskeeper would be able to get him access to some of the rarer wood types and magical components that were essential for broom-making. With Hagrid's extensive knowledge of magical trees and plants, he might even be able to suggest something unique.

As he packed up his tools and prepared to leave his secret base, Harry felt a renewed sense of purpose. He wasn't just any first-year at Hogwarts—he was Harry Potter, and he was going to build a broom that would be better than anything the school had to offer. The Nimbus 2000 Sirius sent him was incredible, but there was something special about creating one with his own hands.

The sun was dipping low over the horizon as Harry made his way to Hagrid's hut for the first time. The path leading to the half-giant's abode was flanked by trees and overgrown vegetation, their shadows stretching long and thin as evening approached. Harry took a deep breath, mentally preparing himself for the conversation he was about to have. He knew that Hagrid, with his deep love for Hogwarts and its students, would be crucial to his plan.

As he reached the hut, the warm, golden light spilling from the windows and the enticing smell of something baking made him feel a bit more at ease. He knocked on the door, and after a moment, it swung open to reveal Hagrid's broad, friendly face.

"Hello there!" Hagrid greeted, his voice like a rumbling thunder. "You must be Harry Potter. I've heard a lot about you."

"Yes, I'm Harry," Harry said, extending a hand. "It's nice to meet you, Hagrid."

Hagrid shook his hand enthusiastically, his large hand enveloping Harry's in a firm grip. "Come on in, then. It's always a pleasure to meet a new student. What brings you here?"

Harry stepped inside, marveling at the cozy interior filled with strange creatures, large furniture, and an array of magical items. Hagrid gestured to a chair by the fire. "Sit down, Harry. Tea?"

"Tea would be great, thank you," Harry said, taking a seat. He watched as Hagrid bustled around, preparing the tea with surprising dexterity for someone of his size.

Once settled with a steaming cup of tea, Harry cleared his throat and began, "Hagrid, I'm here because I need your help with something special. Sirius Black—he's my godfather—suggested I come to you for assistance. He mentioned you'd be the best person to talk to about acquiring some specific materials for a project."

Hagrid's eyes lit up with interest. "Sirius Black, you say? A fine man, he is. What sort of project are we talking about?"

Harry took a deep breath, carefully choosing his words. "I'm working on replacing some of the old, dangerous broomsticks at Hogwarts. The current ones aren't up to standard, and I've decided to build some new, high-quality broomsticks myself. I need some special woods and magical components to make them. Sirius thought you might be able to help me get the materials from the Forbidden Forest."

Hagrid's expression softened, a mix of concern and admiration. "Replacing the broomsticks, you say? That's a noble cause, Harry. Hogwarts deserves the best, and those old brooms—well, they're certainly not safe for flying. But the Forbidden Forest... it's not a place to tread lightly. You'll need to be careful."

Harry nodded, understanding Hagrid's concern. "I agree. That's why I wanted to talk to you. I need to assure you that this project is for the benefit of Hogwarts. I'm replacing dangerous broomsticks to ensure the safety of the students. I'm committed to doing this right, and I hope you'll help me source the materials."

Hagrid's gaze softened, and he nodded thoughtfully. "Aye, I understand now. Hogwarts is like family to me, and I'd never let anything harm it. If you're making things better for the students, then I'm on board. I've got some fine wood out back that should be just what you need."

"That's wonderful," Harry said, relieved. "I'll need to arrange for the magical components as well. Sirius mentioned that you might have connections or resources to help with that."

Hagrid stood up and walked to a large chest in the corner of the room, rummaging through it. "I've got a few things that might be useful. And if I don't have what you need, I can certainly find a way to get it. Hogwarts means a lot to me, and helping students like you is part of what I do best."

Harry was impressed by Hagrid's willingness to assist. "Thank you so much, Hagrid. Your support means a lot."

As Hagrid handed Harry a bundle of enchanted ingredients and a selection of wood, he continued, "Just remember, Harry, Hogwarts is a special place. It's got its secrets and its dangers, but it's also got a lot of love and magic. Keep that in mind as you work on your project. And don't go looking for trouble in places you don't belong."

"I will," Harry promised. "And I appreciate the advice. I'm planning to get started right away and will make sure to be careful."

With their conversation winding down, Harry thanked Hagrid again and made his way back to the castle, carrying the precious materials. He felt a sense of accomplishment and excitement about the upcoming task. The support of his friends and Hagrid's help would make a world of difference in his efforts to improve the broomsticks at Hogwarts.

As he walked back through the corridors, Harry couldn't help but think about the positive changes he was making. He looked forward to sharing the news with his friends in the Order of the Stars, who would be eager to get started on their part of the project. The future was full of possibilities, and Harry was determined to make the most of them.