Chapter 3: Scattered Memories
Chapter 3: Scattered Memories
A piercing, bone-chilling spell?
Or a fiery death by the Fiendfyre curse?
Ivan shuddered at the thought of these potential tragic scenarios, striving to recall his original memories.
Perhaps due to the transmigration, these memories seemed to be scattered and hidden deep within his mind, leaving Ivan with nothing despite his best efforts.
"Damn it, I wish I could remember more", Ivan muttered, feeling a headache coming on. It seemed he would have to learn Legilimency before the end of the semester and find a way to use the Pensieve in the Headmaster's office to sort out his memories. Otherwise, he might be exposed.
To think, Ivan didn't even know where his home was.
It was quite a feat for a transmigrant to end up in such a predicament.
"Harry Potter!"
Just as Ivan was contemplating how to sneak into the Restricted Section and learn Legilimency, Professor Mcgonagall's loud voice pulled his attention back to the Sorting Ceremony.
Not just Ivan, but all the young wizards and Professors turned their gazes to the stage, much like when Ivan had stepped up. However, Ivan's slight uniqueness and the hero's reputation clearly couldn't compare.
As a bespectacled, somewhat frail and nervous young wizard ascended the stage, the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause. The second-year Gryffindors next to Ivan even clapped until their hands turned red, staring intently at the forehead partially obscured by hair, as if hoping to catch a glimpse of the lightning-shaped scar.
"Harry Potter? Is she talking about that Harry Potter?"
"My mom said he defeated the Dark Lord when he was just a baby!"
"I hope he gets sorted into Gryffindor!"
Ivan joined in the applause, not wanting to stand out too much in the audience.
Of course, Ivan believed this was the honor Harry deserved, considering his tragic childhood, which stemmed from the death of his parents.
If not for Lily Potter's sacrifice and the protective magic that weakened the powerful Voldemort, who knows how many more wizards would have died.
When it was announced that Harry Potter would be joining Gryffindor, the entire audience of young wizards cheered even more. The Weasley Twins hugged each other excitedly, shouting, "Potter! We have Potter!" while the applause from the Slytherin side was much lighter.
Especially the Slytherin Head of House, who, upon hearing the Sorting Hat say that Harry had refused to enter Slytherin, looked rather displeased.
Ivan silently observed everything, a slight smile playing on his lips. He knew this was due to Harry's status as the Chosen One. Once people realized that, aside from his fame, Harry Potter was just an ordinary young wizard, they might not be so concerned.
Ivan inwardly scoffed, but as he glanced at Dumbledore, who was smiling at Harry, he suddenly felt that the Slytherin Head of House's worry was justified. With the Headmaster's support, the Chosen One would have an advantage. At the very least, the House Cup would be out of reach for Slytherin for the next few semesters.
As Harry descended from the stage, the Gryffindor Prefect, Percy Weasley, rushed forward to shake his hand eagerly. Most of the others also made space, hoping to chat with the hero.
Even George and Fred joined the crowd, leaving Ivan alone.
Ivan had no intention of joining the frenzy. He enjoyed the feast in front of him, indifferent to the commotion. It was often said that British cuisine was authentic black magic, but the food at Hogwarts was surprisingly good. Ivan suspected this was because the food was prepared by House-elves, not British wizards.
Ivan felt someone watching him and looked up to see Dumbledore's silver-blue eyes fixed on him.
Ivan showed no fear, smiling innocently and bashfully at Dumbledore before shoving a large piece of cake into his mouth and swallowing it in a few bites.
Perhaps because of Ivan's foodie aura, or perhaps Dumbledore was just in a playful mood, the greatest white wizard smiled back and then shifted his gaze elsewhere.
After the Sorting Ceremony, there was plenty of time for the young wizards to enjoy their meal. Ivan ate until he was completely full before Dumbledore waved his Wand to clear away the remnants of the feast.
The table was instantly cleared, just as it had appeared.
The magical display was no longer a novelty for the Upper-year Students, but for Ivan, who was experiencing true magic for the first time, it was still quite fascinating.
Dumbledore then stood up slowly, and the entire hall's attention focused on him.
"Well, since we are all full and satisfied, let me add a few more words. I have some announcements to make for the start of the school year."
Dumbledore's voice echoed through the hall, his eyes sweeping over the standing first-years and then towards the Weasley Twins.
"First-years, please note: the Forbidden Forest on the school grounds is off-limits to all students. I trust the older students will remember this rule as well."
"Our caretaker, Mr. Filch, reminds you that the use of magic in the corridors between classes is strictly forbidden."
"Quidditch tryouts will be held in the second week."
After briefly emphasizing the usual rules, Dumbledore paused and then raised his voice.
"Finally, I must warn you: anyone who wishes to avoid a painful death should stay away from the fourth-floor corridor on the right side of the castle this year!"
Ivan couldn't help but roll his eyes at Dumbledore's baiting statement.
He mentioned the danger but provided no further details, maintaining a mysterious air. How could some of the more curious young wizards resist?
Sure enough, Dumbledore's stern warning seemed to have little effect. A few first-years even laughed, while the older students looked serious.
Of course, the serious faces did not include the Weasley Twins, who were whispering to each other, likely planning to investigate the supposedly deadly corridor.
However, Ivan suspected that Dumbledore would have a word with them in advance or have Mr. Filch keep a close eye on them to prevent any trouble.
(End of Chapter)
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