Chapter 1 – Gathering on the Pitch
The morning sun spilled golden light over the Hogwarts grounds, burning off the last mist that clung to the grass. From the castle's stone steps, groups of first-years streamed out in a noisy, jostling wave, chattering excitedly about their very first flying lesson. The wide expanse of the Quidditch pitch shimmered in the distance, its high stands casting long shadows, and the sight of it made every student's pulse quicken.
Harry walked with Neville at his side, Seamus and Dean bantering behind them, while Ron trailed in their cluster. Ron's commentary about how he'd "surely be a natural, since all Weasleys are good flyers" had already begun to grate on Neville, though Harry bore it with polite silence.
Just ahead, Percy Chronos walked at a measured pace with Artemis and Athena at his side, their elegance and calm so striking that they stood out in every crowd. Where other students bounced with nerves or whispered to one another, the trio seemed untouchable — an island of composed assurance. Even the morning breeze seemed to catch them differently, tugging at Percy's dark hair and rippling Artemis' silver braid as if nature itself paid homage.
Above, the sky rippled with sudden wings. A golden streak descended and landed on one of the tall pitch posts: Hedwig, Harry's golden eagle familiar, majestic and watchful. Not long after, a shadow crossed the sun as Kaal, the phoenix-dragon hybrid, circled overhead before perching on the far end of the stands, his molten gaze making several Slytherins pale. The air hummed with their presence — primal, magical, unsettling.
"Bloody hell…" Seamus muttered, nudging Dean. "That's not normal, is it? Birds that look like they belong in some epic poem."
"More like a nightmare," a Slytherin boy whispered to his friend, casting a nervous glance at Kaal's wings, which shimmered with fire at the tips.
The Gathering
Madam Hooch, wiry and sharp-eyed, stood waiting at the center of the pitch, a crate of school brooms at her feet. Her hawk-yellow eyes scanned the group, already irritated by the bubbling excitement and the undercurrent of rivalry between the houses.
"Form lines! Slytherins to the left, Gryffindors to the right!" she barked.
The shuffle began, filled with glares, smirks, and whispered commentary.
Draco Malfoy moved confidently to the front of the Slytherin line, flanked by Crabbe and Goyle, but his eyes weren't on Madam Hooch. They were on Percy. His pale face twisted with jealousy as he saw Artemis and Athena laugh softly at something Percy murmured.
"Honestly," Draco sneered loudly enough for others to hear, "does Chronos bring his entire fan club everywhere? Can't even walk to the pitch without an audience."
Some Slytherins snickered, though half-heartedly — they too remembered the way Salazar's portrait had bowed to Percy. That memory gnawed at Draco's pride, but none dared challenge it openly.
Ron, from the Gryffindor side, puffed himself up. "At least Percy doesn't have to buy his friends," he shot back, his tone sharper than usual. But even as he spoke, he stole a glance at Harry, hoping for approval. Harry simply gave a small shake of his head, unwilling to dive into Malfoy's games this early.
Small Sparks of Romance
While tension flared between the boys, softer undercurrents moved among the girls. Several Gryffindor first-years — Lavender Brown among them — had eyes fixed on Harry, whispering about how "calm and serious" he looked compared to Ron's loud bluster. Others risked glances at Percy, though they always ended up glaring at Artemis and Athena, who seemed untouchably radiant.
Neville, trying not to look nervous about flying, noticed the stares too. He leaned toward Harry and muttered, "Half the girls look like they're ready to fight each other just to sit near Percy."
Harry gave a small, amused smile. "And they'd lose." His glance toward Artemis and Athena was respectful — not jealous, but aware of their unshakable bond. He didn't envy Percy; he simply wanted his own path, one where admiration wasn't forced by awe but earned by who he was.
Pureblood Calculations
Behind the surface chatter, schemes brewed.
Draco plotted how to turn this flying lesson into a spectacle where Harry would embarrass himself — and by extension, Percy's little "protégé."
Other pureblood boys whispered about Artemis and Athena, still convinced they were gold-diggers who could be won if Percy was humiliated enough.
Some Slytherin girls, though intrigued by Percy, made mental notes that Harry Potter himself was suddenly becoming more approachable.
The Quidditch pitch, usually a place of sport and speed, had transformed into a simmering cauldron of politics, rivalries, and teenage longing before a single broomstick left the ground.
Madam Hooch clapped her hands, snapping everyone out of their thoughts.
"Up," she commanded, and the lesson began.
But already, the seeds of rivalries, romances, and betrayals were sown in that morning sunlight.
Chapter 2 – The Fall and the Flight
The morning sun shone bright over the Quidditch pitch, its golden rays glinting against rows of battered school brooms laid neatly on the grass. Students clustered nervously, Gryffindor red and Slytherin green making the field look like two armies about to clash.
Madam Hooch's whistle cut through the chatter.
"Stand by a broomstick. Quickly now!"
Harry took his place beside one of the old school brooms, heart pounding. His mind flashed back to Percy's quiet advice that morning at breakfast: "Fly because you want to, not because you're told to. The broom will feel that."
Beside him, Percy was relaxed, arms loosely folded as Artemis and Athena murmured something teasing into his ear. Their playful closeness earned another round of glares from older students, though Percy barely noticed.
"Hand out! Say, 'Up!'" Madam Hooch barked.
"Up!" the class chorused.
Most brooms wobbled, some rolled, a few smacked against hands. Draco's broom flew instantly to his palm, which he showed off with a smug grin. Harry's, however, snapped up into his hand with a sharp, obedient smack. It wasn't smooth like Draco's — it was forceful, almost eager.
Percy's broom didn't hesitate either. But unlike Harry's, it soared into his palm like a hawk swooping to its master. Madam Hooch's sharp eyes flickered curiously at Percy but she said nothing.
Neville's Fall
When Madam Hooch finally instructed them to mount and push off the ground, Neville's broom shot up like a rocket. He let out a terrified wail as it carried him ten feet, then twenty, before spinning violently.
"Down! Come down, Longbottom!" Madam Hooch shouted.
But it was useless. Neville tumbled, crashing painfully onto the grass below. A chorus of gasps followed. Harry instinctively started forward, but Percy's hand on his shoulder stopped him.
"Wait," Percy murmured, his voice calm and steady. "Let him land. Don't rush in panic — that's what everyone else will do. Learn when to move."
The advice held Harry still. Neville groaned but sat up, dazed but alive.
Madam Hooch snapped at the class, "Nobody move while I take Longbottom to the hospital wing! Anyone caught flying will be expelled!"
She stormed off, supporting Neville under her arm.
The moment she vanished, Draco's smirk spread. He bent, picked something from the grass — Neville's Remembrall — and tossed it lightly in the air.
"Look what he dropped," Draco sneered. "Maybe he'll remember not to make a fool of himself next time."
Harry Takes Flight
Harry's chest tightened. He could almost hear Dudley laughing back at Privet Drive, mocking him the same way Draco mocked Neville. For once, though, Harry wasn't trembling.
He heard Percy's low voice beside him, soft but firm:
"Don't let him set the rules. You decide the field you fight on."
That was enough. Before Ron could mutter a word or Hermione could scold him, Harry swung his leg over the broom and kicked off.
The wind rushed against his face, wild and exhilarating. His broom steadied under him as though it had been waiting for this exact moment. Gasps echoed from below as Harry soared higher, chasing Draco's taunts.
Draco's eyes widened in shock — Harry wasn't clumsy or hesitant. He was natural. With a laugh that surprised even himself, Harry leaned forward, the broom obeying every flick of thought. He cut through the air, closing the distance.
"Give it here, Malfoy!" Harry shouted, circling with sharper turns than anyone expected.
Draco, suddenly desperate, hurled the Remembrall into the air. "Catch it, Potter — if you can!"
Harry's broom surged. The world blurred. He leaned low, arm outstretched — and caught the Remembrall just inches from the ground with flawless instinct.
A stunned silence swept the pitch. Then Gryffindors erupted in cheers, Seamus shouting louder than anyone: "Bloody brilliant, Harry!"
Even a few Slytherins, including Daphne, looked momentarily impressed before hiding it behind practiced sneers.
Percy Stays Back
Percy hadn't moved. He stood calmly, arms still crossed, Artemis leaning against his side while Athena smirked knowingly.
"Good," Artemis murmured.
"He's flying for himself, not for us," Athena added.
Percy's lips curved faintly. "Exactly."
The students glanced at him — some in awe, some in envy. They had expected Percy Chronos to leap in, to overshadow Harry's moment. Instead, he allowed Harry to shine.
But that didn't stop whispers among pureblood boys:
"Maybe Potter's talented… but it's Percy everyone watches."
"If I could win over one of those girls, Chronos would be nothing."
They were wrong — but they didn't know it yet.
The Aftermath
Harry landed to thunderous Gryffindor applause, face flushed with pride. He clutched the Remembrall, heart still racing. For the first time in his life, he felt free.
Hermione, hands on her hips, scolded, "You could have been killed!" but her voice wavered between disapproval and reluctant admiration.
Draco stalked off, furious, his pride shredded. Blaise trailed after him, quietly thoughtful.
Percy walked over at last, clapping Harry on the shoulder.
"You didn't just catch that," Percy said softly, so only Harry could hear. "You caught your first step away from me. And that's exactly how it should be."
Harry's grin widened. For once, he didn't feel like Percy's shadow. He felt like Harry Potter.
Chapter 3 – Sparks Between Houses
The walk back from the Quidditch pitch was far from calm. Gryffindors marched together in jubilant noise, Harry at the center of it all with the Remembrall still clutched in his hand. Every few steps, someone clapped him on the back — Dean practically shouting, "That was wicked, Harry!" while Seamus kept miming Harry's dive in dramatic fashion.
Ron strutted beside him, puffing his chest as though he had caught the Remembrall.
"I told you, didn't I? My best mate's a natural flier! They'll have to put you on the team now!"
Hermione, however, was less impressed. "He could have broken his neck. Honestly, what were you thinking?" she demanded, hurrying to keep up. But her face betrayed her: admiration flickered in her eyes every time she replayed the image of Harry plummeting and catching the ball.
Across the field, the Slytherins were far quieter. Draco stormed ahead, pale and furious, muttering under his breath. Blaise Zabini strolled behind him with a thoughtful expression, hands tucked in his robes.
"You saw how steady he was?" Blaise said casually, as if speaking to himself. "Not like a first flight at all. That kind of control…" His eyes narrowed briefly at Percy, who walked a few paces behind Harry with Artemis and Athena. "He's learning quickly — too quickly."
Daphne Greengrass leaned toward Tracey Davis as they entered the castle. "Did you see the way he dived? That wasn't luck. That was instinct." Her voice carried the slightest hint of reluctant admiration. "If Potter isn't careful, he'll have every House watching him."
Tracey smirked. "And maybe a few girls watching him already."
Confrontation in the Corridor
By the time they reached the entrance hall, Draco couldn't hold his temper any longer. He spun around, blocking Harry's path.
"Think you're clever, do you, Potter?" Draco sneered, his voice pitched loud enough to gather attention. "Flying like some show-off when you were told not to. If Hooch had seen, you'd already be expelled."
Harry stiffened, but Percy stayed silent, folding his arms. Artemis and Athena exchanged knowing glances.
Harry drew himself up, still clutching the Remembrall. His voice came out steady — far steadier than it would have months ago. "Better a show-off than a coward who throws things away."
The Gryffindors laughed, Dean and Seamus nearly doubling over. Even a few Hufflepuffs passing by snickered.
Draco flushed red. "You'll regret this, Potter," he spat. "You'll learn Slytherins don't forget an insult."
Harry didn't flinch. "Good thing I don't plan on hiding from them."
That earned a louder chorus of whoops from the Gryffindors.
Percy's lips curved faintly — not a smile of amusement, but of approval. Harry hadn't looked back at him once for reassurance. He'd stood on his own.
Draco glared at Percy next, his eyes flicking to Artemis and Athena standing so effortlessly by his side. For an instant, envy warped his features — not just of Harry's talent, but of Percy's entire existence. Then, with Blaise tugging at his sleeve, Draco stormed off toward the dungeons.
Quiet Notes in the Common Rooms
That night, conversations hummed in every corner of Hogwarts.
In the Gryffindor common room, Harry was the hero of the hour. Dean tossed a cushion high in the air and dove after it, imitating Harry's catch, while Seamus narrated dramatically until he slipped into a bad Irish folk ballad.
Hermione perched in a chair with her arms folded, glaring at the noise but sneaking looks at Harry all the same. When Ron bragged loudly, "I told him how to grip the broom, you know. Wouldn't have managed without me," Hermione rolled her eyes so hard they nearly rattled.
Over in Slytherin, the mood was darker. Draco ranted to anyone who would listen, but most of his housemates remained cool. Blaise finally cut across him with a drawl:
"Shouting won't change the fact Potter can fly. Maybe think before you rush into another disaster."
Daphne was quieter, penning a letter by the fire. Tracey leaned over her shoulder.
"Writing to your father already?" she teased.
Daphne smirked. "Of course. Information like this is valuable. A Gryffindor with real talent… and Percy Chronos standing beside him. People will want to know how the pieces are moving."
Tracey grinned wickedly. "And you'll be the one to deliver it."
Artemis and Athena's Observations
Meanwhile, in Percy's quarters, the mood was calmer. Artemis leaned against Percy's shoulder while Athena paced, as though processing a riddle.
"He's shifting," Athena murmured. "He's no longer leaning on you as much. That independence will draw people — allies and rivals alike."
Artemis smirked faintly. "And girls. Did you see how Abbott and Bones were watching him?"
Percy chuckled, sliding an arm around Artemis. "Better they watch him than me for once. Let him stumble through the storm. That's how he'll grow."
Athena finally stopped pacing, her sharp gray eyes softening. "You're letting him step into the world. That's harder for you than you let on."
Percy didn't deny it. He only held Artemis closer, murmuring, "He'll need the strength. The politics here are just as dangerous as any battlefield."
Artemis tilted her head back to kiss his jaw, her lips curving in amusement. "And we'll enjoy watching him squirm when the girls start circling."
Closing Line
As Hogwarts settled into uneasy silence, two truths had already taken root: Harry Potter was no meek boy to be molded, and Percy Chronos was no ordinary student to be ignored.
The rivalries born that day — of envy, desire, politics, and pride — would shape the years to come.
Chapter 4 – Whispers of Quidditch (Rewritten)
The Gryffindor common room blazed with noise that evening, like a festival had descended overnight. Dean Thomas was sketching on a scrap of parchment, holding it aloft: a stick-figure Harry clinging to a broom as it dived. Each time Dean added a swooping line, half the room cheered.
Parvati Patil was the loudest, leaning across Lavender Brown with bright eyes. "Did you see the look on Madam Hooch's face? She nearly dropped her whistle! First years aren't supposed to fly like that."
Lavender giggled. "She'll be writing his name down for the Quidditch team any day now."
Ron, sitting far too comfortably beside Harry, puffed out his chest. "Oh, definitely. I mean, I've been telling Harry all about Quidditch since we met. Practically coached him, didn't I?"
Seamus rolled his eyes and muttered loudly enough for everyone to hear, "Aye, Ron, you taught him everything he knows — after all of one conversation."
The group burst into laughter.
Harry laughed too, though he caught Hermione's gaze from where she sat by the fire. She looked torn — as though every cheer grated against her sense of rules. "You broke them, Harry," she said firmly when the laughter died down. "What if Madam Hooch hadn't been impressed?"
Harry's smile faltered, but only for a moment. "Then I'd have faced it. But maybe… maybe I've finally found something I'm good at."
That, oddly enough, silenced Hermione more effectively than any argument.
McGonagall's Scheme
In her office, Professor McGonagall read and re-read her notes on Quidditch regulations, tapping her quill. First-years were barred from teams — for good reason. But the sight of Harry's dive burned in her mind, the same way James Potter had flown.
With a brisk nod, she folded her parchment and summoned a school owl. Tomorrow morning, Oliver Wood would receive a summons. If Percy Chronos was going to unsettle the balance of Hogwarts with his presence, then perhaps Harry Potter could be Gryffindor's answer.
In the Slytherin Dungeons
Where Gryffindor roared, Slytherin simmered.
Draco sulked by the fire, tossing a piece of parchment into the flames. His earlier rants had lost steam. Blaise and Daphne, however, were quieter — quills scratching across parchment.
"Your father will want to know?" Blaise asked lazily, not looking up.
Daphne smirked faintly. "Of course. House Greengrass watches talent as much as bloodlines. Potter's proved himself worth noticing."
Tracey Davis leaned against her, grin mischievous. "And don't forget Percy. They're a package deal — Potter and the mysterious Chronos. That's got every pureblood father licking his quill."
Draco scowled. "Potter's nothing without—"
Blaise cut him off, voice smooth as silk. "Without? You saw him fly. Better think twice before you underestimate him again. That mistake can cost more than pride."
Silence stretched, and the fire crackled louder.
Whispers in the Hallways
By the next day, the story had spread beyond Gryffindor and Slytherin. Hufflepuffs at breakfast whispered about Harry's "hawk dive," while Ravenclaws debated whether broom control like that was learned or instinctive.
A third-year Ravenclaw girl leaned across her table, whispering to her friends, "Potter's already causing waves. And Chronos? He hasn't even lifted a wand yet. Can you imagine what happens when he does?"
All across the hall, eyes flicked toward Harry and Percy's group. Artemis and Athena drew stares — admiration from some, suspicion from others. Percy ignored it all, breaking bread as though the castle weren't buzzing with his name.
Quarters of House Chronos
Later, Harry found himself sprawled in Percy's quarters, Hedwig perched on the arm of his chair. Artemis had draped herself across Percy's lap, lazily braiding a strand of his hair while Athena leafed through a tome of magical theory.
"They're still talking about me," Harry said, bewildered. "Everywhere I go — whispers."
Athena shut her book. "That's Hogwarts. Fame is a currency, and you've just minted more than most will earn in seven years."
Artemis smirked, tugging Percy's hair tighter than necessary. "At least you don't have half the school trying to flirt with you. Trust me, Harry, you've got the better end of things."
Harry flushed, remembering the way Hannah Abbott had smiled at him during breakfast. "I'm not sure about that…"
Percy chuckled, resting a hand on Artemis' knee. "Let them whisper. Today, you didn't need me — you stood tall yourself. That matters more than gossip."
Harry looked down at Hedwig, who tilted her golden head proudly, as if agreeing.
Closing Line
By curfew, Hogwarts was still humming with speculation. Some whispered Harry Potter would be Gryffindor's youngest player in a century. Others whispered Percy Chronos' silence was more dangerous than any wand.
And in the quiet between those whispers, a truth settled in the stone: this year, nothing would run according to plan.
Chapter 5 – Subtle Approaches
The castle had a way of carrying whispers. By the morning after flying lessons, Harry found that wherever he went, people were looking at him differently. Not just for his scar anymore, but for what he had done in the sky. His first flight — reckless, instinctive, brilliant — had left a mark on Hogwarts gossip that even Percy couldn't erase.
The day passed with lessons, parchment, and quills, but the moments in-between buzzed with sideways glances. By lunchtime, Harry had the uneasy sense that people were… orbiting him.
Hallway Encounters
The first came in the corridor leading to Charms. Hannah Abbott from Hufflepuff, cheeks pink, walked a little faster to catch up.
"Er—Harry," she said breathlessly, her plaits bouncing, "that flying yesterday—Merlin, I've never seen anything like it."
Susan Bones nudged her friend, smiling warmly. "Neville told us you stood up for him. That was—brave."
Harry blinked, nearly tripping over his own feet. Compliments weren't something he'd grown used to, and certainly not from girls who were smiling at him as if he'd done something more impressive than nearly get himself expelled.
"Uh—thanks," he muttered, ears burning. "It just… felt natural."
Behind him, Percy smirked knowingly. "Careful, Harry. You'll have half the castle convinced you're starting a fan club."
Artemis leaned in, lips close to Percy's ear. "Or maybe he already has one."
Athena rolled her eyes, but her faint smile betrayed amusement. She tugged Percy's hand casually, and he twined his fingers with hers, the casual intimacy making several passing Ravenclaws flush scarlet.
A Slytherin Spark
Later that afternoon, as students spilled into the courtyard, Tracey Davis sauntered by with a mischievous grin.
"Well, Potter," she drawled, twirling a strand of her dark hair. "Not bad for your first day with a broom. Almost made up for your messy hair."
Harry opened his mouth, closed it, then laughed nervously. "Thanks… I think?"
Tracey winked, leaving him red-eared again. Artemis gave Percy a sly glance. "Look at him—doesn't know whether to duel her or ask her to tea."
Percy chuckled low. "First rule of courtship politics, Harry. When in doubt—smile. It makes them wonder what you're thinking."
Harry tried it—an awkward, too-wide grin that made Tracey laugh as she walked away.
Common Room Chatter
That evening in Gryffindor Tower, the chatter was relentless. Seamus and Dean leaned in over the fire.
"So you've got Slytherins smiling at you now, Harry," Dean said with a grin. "Careful, mate, they'll have you signing marriage contracts before supper."
Seamus snorted. "Contracts? Please. They'll just duel for his attention."
Ron, red in the face, cut across them quickly. "Harry's not interested in any of that rubbish. He's got bigger things to worry about—like Quidditch. McGonagall's already noticed him, right, Harry? Told me so herself."
Harry glanced at Ron, brow raised. "Funny, I don't remember her telling you anything."
Dean and Seamus burst out laughing, and Ron's ears turned crimson.
Percy's Quiet Counsel
Later, when the Gryffindor crowd had quieted and Harry found himself walking back down the hall with Percy and his wives, Percy leaned close.
"You're stepping into politics whether you like it or not, Harry," he said gently. "Every smile, every word—it's not just about friendship. Pureblood families measure opportunities in people."
Harry frowned. "I don't want to be some prize everyone fights over."
Athena placed a hand on his shoulder. "Then don't. Make choices. That alone will make you stronger than half of them."
Artemis smirked, her silver eyes glinting. "And if any of them overstep, Harry, we'll make sure they regret it."
Her words, though light, carried an edge that sent a thrill through Harry. He wasn't just "the Boy Who Lived" anymore. He was Harry Potter, and people were starting to notice.
Closing
That night in the Slytherin common room, Percy lounged casually between Artemis and Athena, their heads resting against his shoulders. More than one boy glared in envy, and more than one girl whispered to a friend.
Harry, sitting nearby, watched the three with quiet amusement. He could almost hear Percy's teasing voice: Smile, Harry. It makes them wonder what you're thinking.
And for the first time in his life, Harry smiled because he wanted to.
Chapter 6 – Percy's Shadow and Harry's Light
The next morning dawned crisp, the sky outside streaked with pink and gold. Breakfast in the Great Hall was as lively as ever—clinking cutlery, gossip bouncing from table to table, owls swooping down with letters and packages. Yet Harry could feel it: the air around him had changed.
He'd been "the Boy Who Lived" since he walked into Hogwarts, but after flying yesterday? Now, he was Harry Potter, the boy who could fly like lightning.
And the castle was reacting.
Harry Under the Spotlight
As Harry ate his toast, a group of Ravenclaw girls passed by, giggling behind their hands. One of them—a tall girl with dark braids—glanced his way and blushed when their eyes met.
Across the Gryffindor table, Dean whistled. "Merlin's pants, Harry. You're not even trying."
Seamus elbowed him. "Reckon he doesn't have to. One broom ride and half the school's already swooning."
Ron muttered, stabbing his eggs with more force than necessary. "It's not swooning, it's… it's just gossip. They don't even know him properly."
Hermione rolled her eyes, but Harry caught the flash of something—annoyance? irritation?—in her expression before she buried herself in her timetable.
Percy's Calm Presence
At the Slytherin table, Percy sat flanked by Artemis and Athena, the three of them sharing soft, intimate conversation as though the hall wasn't buzzing with stares. Percy brushed a lock of hair from Athena's face, Artemis leaned in to whisper something that made him chuckle, and the whole tableau made half the boys in the hall shift uncomfortably in their seats.
The envy was palpable.
Draco scowled into his pumpkin juice. "Disgusting. All that hand-holding in public—it's cheap."
Blaise smirked. "And yet you can't stop staring."
Hallway Conversations
Later that day, as the students left Charms, two Hufflepuff boys nudged each other.
"Chronos might have the girls on his arms, but Potter—he's the one people are whispering about now."
"Yeah, and he doesn't even look smug about it. That's the dangerous part."
The words reached Harry's ears, and for once, he didn't shrink. He didn't look to Percy for reassurance. He walked forward, chin lifted, feeling something warm in his chest.
Percy's Gentle Test
That evening, in the quieter stretch of the library, Percy finally turned to him.
"You're changing, Harry," he said, voice calm. Artemis and Athena were nearby, paging through books, though their hands rested lightly on Percy as though unable to help themselves.
Harry frowned. "Is that bad?"
Percy shook his head, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Not bad. Necessary. You're starting to step out from under my shadow. That's good. Just remember, shadows protect as much as they obscure."
Harry thought about that long into the evening.
Gryffindor's Gossip
Back in the Gryffindor common room, the fire crackled as Seamus, Dean, and Ron lounged in armchairs.
"Harry's becoming the golden boy," Seamus said with a grin. "Bet you a Galleon he's Quidditch captain by fourth year."
Dean laughed. "More like sooner. Did you see how McGonagall looked at him yesterday?"
Ron sat stiffly, face red. "He wouldn't even know about Quidditch if it wasn't for me. I'm the one who told him how the game works."
The others ignored him, and Ron clenched his fists, frustration gnawing at him in silence.
Closing Moment
That night, Harry sat by the window of the Gryffindor dorm, Hedwig perched beside him. The golden eagle's feathers shimmered faintly in the moonlight.
For the first time, Harry whispered aloud, "I think I can do this. Not just because of Percy—but because of me."
Hedwig ruffled her wings as though in agreement. And down in the dungeons, Percy, Artemis, and Athena shared a private laugh in their quarters, unaware that their quiet guidance was already shaping Harry into something entirely his own.
Chapter 7 – Pureblood Correspondence
The owls came at breakfast.
It was as though the entire ceiling of the Great Hall came alive, wings beating overhead, parchment fluttering down like confetti. For most students, letters meant home comforts: packages of fudge, notes from proud parents, or reminders to "mind your studies." But for the pureblood children, letters carried more than love — they carried orders.
Slytherin Letters
Draco Malfoy slit open his parchment with a silver knife, smirk already fixed. But as he read, the smirk faltered.
"Avoid Percy Chronos at all costs. His house is too old, too powerful. Do not antagonize him further."
Lucius's handwriting was sharp, every word underlined.
Draco's jaw clenched. Too powerful? Too old? What about me?
He looked across the hall, to where Percy sat between Artemis and Athena. Percy leaned back casually as Athena fed him a piece of pear with a fork, Artemis's hand resting on his thigh under the table. Percy kissed Athena's fingers in thanks.
Draco nearly choked on his pumpkin juice. "They're doing this in public."
Blaise leaned over, reading his own letter with raised brows. "My family says the same thing. Don't touch Chronos. But keep an eye on Harry Potter — he's becoming interesting."
Draco sneered. "Potter? He's just a half-blood orphan with a scar."
"An orphan who flew better than you yesterday," Daphne Greengrass said dryly from across the table. She folded her letter with delicate precision. "My father says Percy Chronos is untouchable. But Potter…" She let her voice linger. "Potter could be swayed."
Draco glared. "Potter is mine to deal with."
Blaise only smirked. "If you say so."
Gryffindor Giggling
Meanwhile, Harry's morning was spiraling into awkward chaos.
He'd barely buttered his toast when a small flock of Hufflepuff girls appeared. Hannah Abbott smiled brightly. "Hi, Harry. You were brilliant on that broom yesterday."
Susan Bones chimed in, "My aunt says natural fliers make the best duelists too."
Harry blinked, cheeks warming. "Er… thanks?"
Dean grinned wickedly. "Merlin's beard, Harry, you've got a fan club."
Seamus whispered just loudly enough: "Bet you two Sickles he's got a girlfriend before Christmas."
Ron, sitting stiffly beside him, muttered, "He doesn't need one. He's got enough going on without that."
Harry wanted the ground to swallow him whole.
Percy's Table — A Show
Across the hall, Percy, Artemis, and Athena were entirely unbothered.
Percy leaned close to Artemis, murmuring something that made her smirk. Athena rolled her eyes at them, only to be tugged closer by Percy until she laughed despite herself.
It wasn't just affection — it was effortless ownership of the room. They weren't shy about their bond, weren't hiding the brush of hands, the stolen kiss on Artemis's temple, the way Athena rested her head briefly against Percy's shoulder.
The Gryffindor boys groaned collectively.
"Why does he get two?" Seamus muttered.
"Because he's richer than Godric Gryffindor," Dean said with mock solemnity.
Hermione slammed her book closed. "They're individuals, not trophies. And maybe, just maybe, they actually like him."
But even she couldn't help glancing again when Percy kissed Athena's wrist.
Dumbledore's View
At the staff table, Dumbledore pretended to sip calmly at his tea, but his eyes flicked from Harry laughing nervously with Hannah and Susan to Percy's scandalous display at the Slytherin table.
The threads were slipping from his grasp. Potter was gaining confidence from attention outside of Ron. Percy was commanding the school's gaze without saying a word.
He hid his frown in the steam of his tea.
Closing
As breakfast ended, the owls took flight again, carrying replies. Draco's letter home burned with rage:
Father, I will not stand aside while Potter is celebrated and Chronos flaunts himself. I will prove myself.
And across the hall, Harry muttered under his breath to Hedwig, perched nearby, "I don't even know what to do with all this attention."
The golden eagle ruffled her feathers as though to say: Get used to it.
Chapter 8 – Flirtations and Jealousies
The Great Hall was a stage that evening, though no one would admit it aloud. Forks clinked against plates, goblets filled and refilled, but the true feast was the gossip passing from table to table.
Artemis and Athena — Untouchable Queens
At the Slytherin table, Artemis and Athena had drawn the eyes of nearly every older boy in sight.
A tall sixth-year leaned casually over Percy, flashing his most confident grin. "Artemis, wasn't it? Surely someone as radiant as you shouldn't be tied down so young. You'd enjoy better company with—"
Her silver eyes cut to him like a blade. "If you're going to flirt, at least try not to bore me."
The boy faltered, cheeks reddening. His mates snickered.
Moments later, another boy tried Athena with a different tactic. "I hear you have a sharp mind. Perhaps you'd like to study with someone more… experienced?"
Athena didn't even look up from buttering her bread. "You'd need a sharper mind to hold my interest."
Laughter rippled down the table. The boy slumped back in his seat, humiliated.
Percy reclined between them, grinning like a cat in the cream. "You're both too cruel," he teased softly, though his eyes sparkled with amusement.
Artemis smirked. "Only fair. They asked for it."
Percy's Enjoyment
For Percy, this had become a private sport: watching rivals approach and watching them burn. Every failed attempt, every stammered retreat, made him chuckle quietly, his arm tightening around Artemis or his hand brushing Athena's under the table.
The more they deflected suitors with wit, the more scandalous their bond looked to the rest of the school. And Percy loved every second of it.
Harry in the Spotlight
Across the hall at the Gryffindor table, Harry was discovering a new problem of his own.
Susan Bones leaned toward him with a shy smile. "Harry, the way you flew yesterday—have you always been that good?"
Harry blinked. "It was my first time, actually."
Her eyes widened. "First time? That's incredible!"
Hannah Abbott giggled. "It looked like you'd been flying for years. You should be proud."
Harry's ears turned pink. "Thanks, I guess."
Then Tracey Davis, passing by with a knowing smirk, called, "Careful, Potter. At this rate, the rest of us won't stand a chance on a broom."
Harry choked on his pumpkin juice. Dean and Seamus immediately started ribbing him for it, while half the girls nearby giggled.
Hermione's Irritation
From her seat down the table, Hermione watched the whole scene with a faint scowl. Honestly. It's not as if flying well makes someone remarkable in every way.
But when Susan leaned a little closer, her hand brushing Harry's arm as she laughed, Hermione felt a spark of something unfamiliar — irritation. She didn't name it, not yet, but it sat uncomfortably in her chest.
She turned to her plate, cutting her meat with more force than necessary.
Rom-Com Energy in the Air
The entire hall seemed to buzz with a new kind of tension. Upper-year boys kept sneaking glances at Percy's companions, only to be met with wit that left them retreating in embarrassment. Younger girls leaned toward Harry, whispering, giggling, daring each other to speak to him.
It was messy, awkward, and faintly ridiculous — and it was only the first week of term.
Artemis leaned toward Percy, smirking. "They're all losing their heads."
Athena added slyly, "It's almost entertaining."
Percy chuckled low. "Almost? My dear, this is the best entertainment Hogwarts has offered yet."
Chapter 9 – Shadows of Rivalries
The tension between Gryffindor and Slytherin was now a living thing in the halls, alive in every glance, every whisper. But Hogwarts was not only a school of rivalry — it was also a school of teenage drama, and Percy, Artemis, Athena, and Harry had become its favorite show.
Gryffindor Common Room – Gossip Over Chocolate Frogs
"Did you see the way Harry dived after Draco? Brave and reckless — Merlin, it was brilliant," gushed Lavender Brown, bouncing on the arm of a chair.
Parvati giggled beside her. "And when he landed, everyone just… stared. He looked like he belonged in the air."
Hermione sat stiffly at the study table, trying to focus on her parchment. "Flying well doesn't make someone clever," she muttered, though no one was listening.
Dean snorted. "Don't let it get to your head, Harry," he said teasingly, tossing him a Chocolate Frog. "But the girls are practically writing your fan club charter."
Harry, caught mid-bite, choked. His ears went scarlet.
Ron puffed his chest. "I told you — he's my best mate. Always knew he had it in him."
Seamus rolled his eyes. "Sure, Ron. Next you'll say you taught him everything he knows."
Hermione stabbed her quill harder into her inkpot, muttering under her breath.
Slytherin Common Room – Envy and Dreaming
Down in the dungeons, the conversation was no less dramatic.
"Did you notice Artemis laughed at something Percy whispered during the feast?" Tracey Davis whispered loudly to Daphne. "I swear, if I could just get him to look at me like that—"
Pansy Parkinson scoffed. "As if he'd ever notice you. Besides, Artemis and Athena are clinging to him like—like—" she gestured vaguely, her cheeks red. "It's disgusting."
"Disgusting," muttered one boy, though his expression was more wistful than angry.
Daphne smirked, sipping her pumpkin juice with measured grace. "Don't waste your envy. Artemis and Athena aren't going anywhere. The smarter play is watching Harry. He's not shielded by a thousand years of Chronos mystique."
Tracey tilted her head. "Hmm. Maybe I'll practice my giggles near him instead."
"Too late," Blaise murmured from his corner. "The Gryffindor girls already started."
Draco scowled so hard his face hurt.
Harry at the Window – Awkward Realizations
Later that night, Harry sat at the tower window again, Hedwig perched proudly beside him. He could still hear Lavender's voice in his head — brave and reckless.
He wasn't sure he liked it. He wasn't used to it. But the memory of Susan smiling, Tracey teasing, Hermione scolding-but-not-really-angry… it all swirled in his mind.
For once, he didn't think of asking Percy what to do. He wanted to figure this out himself.
Hedwig ruffled her golden feathers, watching him with sharp eyes. Harry sighed. "Don't look at me like that. I'm not going to let it get to my head."
The eagle clicked her beak as if she knew better.
Percy's Quarters – Pillow Talk with Goddesses
Meanwhile, Percy had far fewer doubts.
In the comfort of their private quarters, Artemis and Athena had curled against him, the fire casting gold across their hair.
Artemis smirked, tracing a finger along his chest. "Three older boys tried to flirt today. Three humiliated. You should have seen their faces."
Athena's lips curved slyly. "One even asked me if I'd prefer 'a real wizard.' I told him he should find one and let me know."
Percy laughed, the sound low and warm. "And Hogwarts calls itself the pinnacle of magical learning."
Artemis chuckled. "You enjoy this circus far too much."
"Of course I do," Percy said, kissing her hair. "It's mortals turning themselves into jesters without me lifting a finger."
Kaal stirred on his perch, his phoenix-dragon eyes gleaming. His cry echoed faintly — almost like laughter of his own.
Closing
The castle that night was a cauldron of rivalries and rumors, crushes and grudges. Gryffindors whispered of Harry's bravery, Slytherins plotted around Percy's untouchable aura, and Hermione discovered jealousy she couldn't name.
Somewhere between politics and laughter, romance and rivalry, Hogwarts had turned into a stage play — and Percy, Artemis, Athena, and Harry were all at its scandalous, magnetic center.
Chapter 10 – The Castle Holds Its Breath
The days after flying lessons turned Hogwarts into something between a school and a stage. Everywhere Percy, Artemis, Athena, and Harry went, heads turned and whispers followed.
The Great Hall – Breakfast Gossip
"Did you hear? McGonagall's going to put Harry on the Quidditch team," Lavender whispered dramatically, passing toast to Parvati.
Parvati squealed. "Already? That's never happened before! Imagine how jealous the Slytherins will be."
Ron leaned across the table, beaming. "Course it's happening. He's brilliant. I said from the start he'd be a star."
Seamus smirked. "Right, Ron, because you knew all along. Next you'll tell us Percy owes you his wandwork."
At the Slytherin table, Pansy leaned in with a sharp sniff. "Honestly, Harry Potter this, Harry Potter that. You'd think the boy invented flying. The real scandal is Percy Chronos letting those girls hang all over him in public."
Tracey giggled. "Letting? Please. They look like they'd bite anyone who tried to pull them away."
Daphne, stirring her tea calmly, murmured, "The girls aren't the problem. It's the fact that Hogwarts itself bowed to Percy. That makes him untouchable. You can flirt, you can whisper, but in the end… he's already won."
Draco slammed down his fork. "He hasn't won anything. Just wait."
Blaise arched an eyebrow. "You're not plotting. You're sulking."
Corridors Between Classes
Students darted glances at Harry wherever he went.
"Harry, that was amazing flying," Susan Bones said, cheeks pink.
"Yeah, really impressive," Hannah added, a little bolder than her friend.
Harry rubbed the back of his neck, mumbling thanks.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "Don't encourage him. He'll start thinking rules don't apply to him." But her tone lacked its usual bite.
Tracey Davis sauntered past with a mischievous grin. "Careful, Potter. If you keep collecting admirers, Percy might get jealous."
Harry sputtered so hard Artemis nearly doubled over laughing. Athena smirked knowingly.
Percy's Quarters – Evening Banter
That night, in the quiet luxury of their quarters, Percy stretched on the sofa while Artemis sprawled across his lap and Athena leaned against his shoulder with a book.
"Two Hufflepuff girls, one Gryffindor know-it-all, and a Slytherin flirt," Artemis listed smugly, ticking them off on her fingers. "Your protégé is becoming Hogwarts' newest crush."
Athena smirked without looking up from her page. "And he doesn't even know what to do with half the attention. He stammers, blushes, and flees."
Percy chuckled, his hand brushing lazily along Artemis's hip. "Good. Better awkward than arrogant. But give it a year, and he'll be breaking hearts without even meaning to."
Kaal shifted on his perch, letting out a low, amused trill that echoed like laughter through the chamber.
Night in the Castle – Whispers Everywhere
The castle buzzed as if alive.
In Gryffindor Tower, Seamus imitated Percy's aloof smirk until Dean nearly fell off his chair laughing. Hermione buried herself in a book, but her quill snapped in her grip when Parvati described Harry as "dreamy."
In the Slytherin dungeons, Tracey plotted how best to bump into Harry again, while Pansy fumed about "that ridiculous Artemis," who had turned down two older boys in a single afternoon with words sharp enough to draw blood.
Even the professors weren't immune. Flitwick quietly marveled at Harry's natural balance in flight. McGonagall prepared her pitch to Dumbledore about Harry joining the team. Snape brooded, furious that his carefully maintained Slytherin hierarchy had been shattered by Percy's very existence.
Closing – The Castle Breathes
As the torches dimmed and the students drifted toward sleep, the mood of Hogwarts was clear: rivalries had been sparked, crushes ignited, and envy stoked to flames.
Yet underneath it all, the castle seemed to whisper with something deeper, something older. Its stones hummed with energy, restless and waiting.
Hogwarts itself was holding its breath — as if it knew that childish rivalries and teenage romances would soon be tested by something far darker.