In the early morning hours, after a few hours of rest, Madam Pomfrey made her way out of her quarters to check on her patient. As she entered the hospital wing, she observed Severus sleeping soundly, his head propped up in an awkward position that would have undoubtedly resulted in a stiff neck. She couldn't help but smile as she retrieved a thick, warm blanket and carefully draped it over the slumbering man, tucking it in around his feet. Knowing how important it was for him to rest, she transfigured the straight-backed chair he was sitting in into a comfortable recliner and adjusted it to support his back. Satisfied that he was now in a better position, she moved over to Harry's bed and began her examination.

Ensuring that the boy was still in his dreamless sleep, Madam Pomfrey carefully checked his vital signs and monitored his progress. She knew that he had a long way to go in terms of recovery, but she was optimistic that he was on the right path. She anticipated that he would slumber for the remainder of the night and well into the morning, giving his body the time it needed to heal.

Meanwhile, Severus and the boy slept soundly, their bodies working hard to recover from the trauma they had endured. When Severus finally awoke, he found himself enveloped in a warm, comfortable recliner, the blanket still wrapped snugly around him. Rolling his eyes in amusement, he recognized it as Madam Pomfrey's handiwork, but he was grateful for the care she had shown him. He shrugged off the blanket and sat up, looking down at the boy who still lay in a deep sleep. With a tender touch, he brushed back the boy's hair and watched in awe as the magic worked to regrow his bones. It was a slow and delicate process, and it would take several days for the bones to fully heal.

Confident that the boy was on the road to recovery, Severus rose from the recliner, which he promptly transformed back into a chair. He folded the blanket neatly and placed it on the seat, grateful for the warmth it had provided him during the night. After taking a few moments to freshen up in the bathroom, he made his way to the Great Hall to grab a quick breakfast and to discuss Harry's placement with Albus. There was also the matter of the boy's sorting ceremony to consider, and Severus knew that they needed to come up with a plan that would allow Harry to settle in and feel at home in his new surroundings.

As Severus made his way into the Great Hall, he couldn't help but notice how quiet it was without the bustling energy of students filling the space. He saw a few early-rising Professors in their seats and some students milling around, but the room was mostly empty. Severus made his way to the head table and took a seat next to Albus. He cleared his throat and turned to the Headmaster.

"Good morning, Albus. I hope you slept well."

"As well as can be expected, Severus," replied Albus with a small smile. "I trust our young patient is recovering?"

Severus nodded, "It'll take a few days for his bones to fully heal. I believe Poppy will have a full report for you on your desk sometime today like she normally does with these kind of cases.

"Yes, I will expect it, but not look forward to it." Albus sighed and pushed his eggs around his plate.

Overhearing the conversation, Minerva gave Albus a sharp look and Severus a curious one. "What patient are we discussing? I noticed that a certain famous wizard was absent last night. Is he the patient you're referring to?" asked Minerva, her eyes darting between the two men.

Albus acknowledged her question with a nod, his eyes downcast as he pushed his eggs around his plate. "I sent Severus to retrieve him when he didn't respond to any of our letters or show up yesterday as expected. He's currently in the hospital wing and will be sorted later this morning. I'd prefer to keep the matter private for now, out of respect for his privacy."

Severus leaned in, his voice hushed. "And what about his placement, Albus? We need to discuss how we're going to handle it."

Albus let out a sigh and ran his hand through his beard. "Yes, we do. I'm still uncertain about where to place him, but we'll have to make a decision soon before the Ministry decides to step in. Poppy will delay filing her report as long as possible, but once she does, the floodgates will open."

Glancing at both of them, Minerva spoke through gritted teeth, "So he'll need new living arrangements? Albus, I warned you about them. I told you they were not good people." Her tone was menacing, and Albus was fortunate that others were present. If they had been alone, she might have bit his head off. Albus would have to watch his back around her for a while or she was likely hex him.

Severus could feel the tension in the room and decided to intervene. "Minerva, as much as I agree with you about his family, we need to focus on finding a solution. We can't change what's already happened, but we can change what will happen going forward. I suggest we start discussing alternative living arrangements for the boy."

Albus grinned wryly, breaking the tense silence, "Says the man who stuck them to their ceiling last night. Kingsley mentioned this morning that it was quite challenging to get them off the ceiling, and I think he regretted helping them in the first place," he finished darly.

Minerva arched an eyebrow and turned to Severus. "Perhaps we should discuss some plans at a later time."

Albus quickly interjected, holding up his hand. "I shouldn't be privy to any of those plans."

The two younger professors exchanged a conspirising look and then turned back to Albus who had finally had a bite of his food. Severus broke the silence, "Here's an idea to consider. What if we were to approach a few muggle-born parents and see if they would be willing to take him in, after thorough screening of course. He would be out of the public eye, wouldn't have any political motives, and he would be in an environment more similar to what he is used to, rather than a wizarding home."

After swallowing a bite of his food, Albus nodded in agreement. "That's a valid idea worth exploring. This year, there are at least five families who are muggle-born that we can consider reaching out to."

Minerva nodded in agreement, relieved that they were making progress. "I'll start making a list of potential families, and we can begin the screening process as soon as possible. We'll need to be thorough to ensure his safety and well-being."

Severus leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "We'll also need to think about how to present this to the Ministry. They're going to want to know where he's going and who he'll be living with."

Albus nodded, his expression serious. "I'll handle the Ministry. I have a few contacts that can help smooth things over."

The three of them chatted a bit longer until the other students started to arrive for breakfast. They arranged for Albus to spend the morning with Harry, as he had no classes to attend, and to help him get sorted into a house. Later in the afternoon, when Minerva was free from classes, she would take over so that Harry was never alone. Although Severus wanted to be with Harry all day, he resigned himself to the evening shift as he had to teach and he discreetly smelled himself noting that he was also due for a shower.

After bidding farewell to his colleagues, Albus made his way to the Hospital wing first stopping to retrieve the sorting hat from his office. Upon entering, he noticed that Harry was still sleeping soundly in his bed. The poor boy must have been utterly exhausted to sleep for so long. Albus wondered when the last time Harry had felt truly safe and felt immense guilt for placing him in harm's way for all those years. He regretted not having heeded Minerva's warnings all those years ago.

Placing the sorting hat on the bed next to Harry's, Albus shushed it as it began to sing, alerting Poppy who emerged from her office with a raised eyebrow and her hands on her hips. Albus offered an apologetic shrug and took a seat beside Harry, studying the boy's diminutive form. Despite being eleven years old, he looked much younger.

As Poppy finished checking over Harry, Albus observed her with a smile. The woman was incredibly hardworking and he noticed that she was still wearing her night clothes from the previous night. It was clear she had not slept at all.

As she finished, Albus placed a gentle hand on hers. "You must be exhausted, Poppy. I can keep watch over him while you freshen up and take a nap. I'll wake you if anything happens."

Poppy looked at Albus skeptically. "You entrusted him to their care. Can you be trusted with him?"

Albus cast his gaze down in shame and looked at Harry lying in the bed. "I was misguided. I thought that since he was family, they would take care of him. His aunt assured me that if the wizarding world kept out of their lives, she would treat him like her own."

Poppy's expression softened as she heard the regret in Albus's voice. She knew he had made a mistake, but she also knew that he was genuinely concerned for Harry's well-being. "Very well, Albus," she said with a sigh. "I could use a nap. But please, wake me immediately if anything happens."

Albus nodded, grateful for her trust, and watched as she shuffled off to her quarters. As he settled into the chair next to Harry's bed, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of sadness and regret. He had failed Harry by placing him in a house that was not a home, and now he couldn't undo the damage. All he could do was move forward and try to repair his failure as best he could.

Albus sat there for a while before Harry began to stir in his bed. He looked to the nurses door, but opted to wait a few minutes before waking her so she could have a bit more rest and he could introduce himself. Slowly the boy woke and reached around for his glasses. Albus gently handed them to the boy and when he put them on his face Albus met him with a smile.

When Harry finally looked up and met his gaze, Albus greeted him with a warm smile. "Good morning, Harry," he said kindly. "How did you sleep? It's such a lovely morning." Despite the weight of his regrets, Albus couldn't help but feel hopeful that he could help Harry find the safety and security he deserved.

With a gentle hand, Albus assisted Harry in propping himself up on the pillows. He had to be careful to avoid any risk of injury, knowing that Madam Pomfrey would be furious with him if Harry was hurt under his care. Once Harry was comfortably settled, he nodded shyly and asked, "I slept for a long time, didn't I? Where is Professor Sn...?" His words trailed off as he struggled to remember the kind man's voice. So much had happened, and he was finding it hard to keep track of everything.

Albus leaned forward and smiled kindly at Harry's question. "Ah, you mean Professor Snape? He's not here at the moment, but he did stop by to check on you earlier, and he'll be by later. And yes, Harry, I am Albus Dumbledore, the headmaster of Hogwarts. It's a pleasure to finally meet you," he said, his voice full of warmth.

Harry's eyes widened in surprise as he realized who he was talking to. "You're...you're the headmaster?" he asked, his voice tinged with worry. "Are you here to send me home because I don't really belong here?"

Albus's heart ached at the fear in Harry's voice. He knew that the boy had been through so much and that he needed reassurance. "No, Harry," he said, his tone gentle but firm. "You are exactly where you belong, and I'm here to make sure that you're safe and cared for. You have a home here at Hogwarts, and we will do everything we can to make sure that you're happy and healthy."

Although Harry nodded in response, his doubts lingered. He was still struggling to come to terms with the fact that someone actually cared about him. "Where is Hogwarts?" he asked, wanting to know more about the place he was now supposed to call home.

"We're in Scotland," Albus replied. "Hogwarts is a school for young witches and wizards. It's a very special place, Harry, and I'm certain you'll enjoy it here." He paused for a moment and looked intently at Harry. "Were you told anything about what we teach here at Hogwarts?" he asked, curious to know what kind of information Petunia had shared with the young boy.

Harry shook his head, his eyes fixed on the floor. "No, I don't really know anything about it," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. He felt embarrassed for not knowing and didn't want to appear foolish in front of the headmaster.

Albus smiled gently at Harry's answer. "That's perfectly alright, Harry. You're here to learn, after all," he said reassuringly. "Hogwarts is a place where you'll learn all sorts of magical things that you never thought possible. You'll make friends and have experiences that will stay with you for the rest of your life."

As the young boy gazed at the book resting on his nightstand, he remembered the letter his mother had written to him. In it, she had revealed that he was a wizard, and just the previous night, the nurse had utilized spells and potions to mend his injuries. He could still perceive the faint radiance emanating from his mending bones. Doubts crept into his mind, and he pondered whether it was all a figment of his imagination. To reassure himself, he covertly pinched his own flesh, confirming that it was indeed real.

Picking up the book, he placed it on his lap and flipped to the section where the letter was located. With delicate care, he withdrew the letter and unfurled it. Then, he addressed his new headmaster, "This letter just showed up, and it claims to be from my mother. Is that possible?"

Albus smiled warmly and said, "May I take a look, Harry?" The man took the letter from the boy in a gentle manner and perused its contents, nodding as he did so. "The handwriting is indeed your mother's. It appears that she must have cast a spell for it to materialize at a specific time." He then returned the letter to the boy, who carefully folded it and placed it back in the book.

Harry's eyes widened with curiosity as he looked up at Albus. "You knew my mum? What was she like?" he asked eagerly, hoping to hear more about his parents.

Albus smiled warmly, his eyes sparkling with fond memories. "Yes, Harry. Your mother and father were some of my brightest students. They were both brilliant and kind-hearted, always striving to do what was right. Your mother had a fierce spirit, always fighting for what she believed in, while your father had a quick wit and an insatiable curiosity about the world."

Harry had always wanted to know more about his parents and was grateful for the opportunity to hear Albus's stories. "I'd love to hear more about them," he said, his eyes shining with anticipation.

Albus nodded, "I will tell you all I can, Harry, but for now, I think need to go and fetch Madam Pomfrey." He noticed Harry wincing in agony, clutching his hand to his ribs, and realized that the pain potion was wearing off. "She can give you something to help with the pain."

Harry's head hung low as he reproached himself for causing yet another problem. Despite his attempts to conceal his agony, he had failed to do so effectively. He couldn't help but wonder if any further mishaps would lead to his expulsion from Hogwarts or leave him stranded on the streets.

Albus noticed the distress etched on the boy's face but decided to focus on alleviating his pain for the time being. He made his way to the nurse's office and gently knocked on the door. The nurse promptly opened it and hurried to tend to her patient, paying no attention to the headmaster. She knew that Albus had not informed her immediately upon awakening, and she planned on scolding him for it later.

Setting those thoughts aside, Poppy quickly examined Harry and retrieved the necessary potions. She administered a potion to soothe his stomach and another to relieve his pain, then summoned a house-elf to bring him some food. Within minutes, Harry was feeling considerably better, and he was on his way to enjoying a truly full stomach, a rare experience for him. Magic was amazing.

As Harry savored the last bite of his meal, he reluctantly set the plate aside. Albus and Poppy shared a concerned glance at the sight of the barely touched food. Albus gently placed his hand over Harry's and asked, "Are you sure you can't manage another bite, Harry?"

Harry shook his head and let out a heavy sigh. His stomach had been deprived of food for so long that even the little bit he had consumed felt like an indulgence. He really wanted to eat more, but he feared the consequences of overindulging.

Poppy immediately sprang into action. She reached for a small vial and handed it to Harry. "Nutrition potion. I'm going to give you a supply of these, Harry. I want you to have one after every meal for at least two weeks to help rebuild your strength."

The boy nodded and downed the potion. He was beginning to trust these potions since they had been making him feel so much better.

After Poppy had cleared away the empty plate, she cast a final glance over Harry to ensure he was comfortable. She then made her way back to her office, pausing only to remind Albus to keep the conversation light and to make sure Harry took a nap if he grew weary.

Albus gave the boy a kind smile and asked, "Feeling better now, Harry?"

Harry nodded, grateful for the kindness he had been shown. However, his curiosity soon got the better of him, and he turned to Albus with a hesitant expression. "When will I be sent back to my relatives, sir?"

Albus patted Harry's hand gently. "You're not going back to your relatives, Harry. I'm finding you new arrangements with a family that will treat you much better, the way a child should be treated."

Not really believing the older man, Harry nodded anyway. He wondered when they would give up on him, but he figured he should go along with this whole thing until then. Until they figured out he wasn't really a wizard, just a freak.

Albus noticed the boy's mood sink and tried to change the subject to cheer him up. "Have you learned about Hogwarts and how everything works around here?"

The boy shook his head and looked at him curiously. He did wonder about the school, even if he wasn't really going to attend. He could always imagine what it would be like.

"Well," Albus continued, a twinkle in his eye. "Hogwarts is the finest school of witchcraft and wizardry in the world. It has a long and fascinating history, with secrets and wonders waiting to be discovered around every corner. The classes are taught by some of the most skilled and knowledgeable witches and wizards of our time, and the students are sorted into four houses - Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff, and Slytherin."

Harry listened intently, his curiosity piqued. He had never heard of anything like this before, and the thought of a magical school filled with mysteries and adventures was almost too much to believe.

Albus continued his explanation, gesturing towards the ancient and tattered Sorting Hat. "This is the Sorting Hat, one of Hogwarts' most treasured artifacts. It has been sorting new students into their respective houses for centuries, and it does so based on the qualities that it discerns in your mind. The Sorting Hat will place you into Slytherin known for its cunning and ambition, Hufflepuff for loyalty and hard work, Ravenclaw for wit and wisdom, or Gryffindor for bravery and daring, and that will be your home for the next seven years."

Harry listened with fascination, wondering what kind of house he would be sorted into if he were a real wizard. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of jealousy for the kids who really got to attend Hogwarts and live in the wizarding world. Maybe he would be lucky and be able to spend a few days here to see what it was like.

A smile formed on Albus's face as he noticed the wistful expression on the boy's face. "I brought the Sorting Hat here today so that we can sort you and determine which Hogwarts house you belong to. Would it be alright if I place it on your head, Harry? Don't be startled if it begins to sing, it has a tendency to do so."

Harry nodded, feeling a blend of anticipation and apprehension. The idea of a magical hat delving into his mind made him slightly uneasy.

Albus placed the Sorting Hat on Harry's head, and at first, nothing happened. Harry waited, holding his breath, until finally, the hat began to move. It felt as if something was crawling around on his head, and he resisted the urge to reach up and pull it off.

Then, the hat began to sing. Its voice was deep and sonorous, filling the room with a rich melody. As it sang, Harry could feel it delving into his mind, sorting through his thoughts and feelings.

After a few moments, the singing stopped, and the hat spoke in a gruff voice. "Well, well, well. What have we here? A boy with a strong sense of justice, a fierce loyalty to those he cares about, and a deep reservoir of bravery. Yes, you will do very well in... GRYFFINDOR!"

Harry flinched at the hat's loud voice, but as it was being removed, he heard it whisper to him, "Yes, you do belong here, Mr. Potter. Don't doubt that."

Harry's heart skipped a beat as he heard the Sorting Hat's words. He had never felt like he belonged anywhere, let alone in the magical world. But something about the hat's assurance made him feel like maybe, just maybe, he could find a place where he belonged. It made him wonder, could he really be a wizard after all?

Albus's twinkle in his eye brought Harry out of his thoughts. "That was the house both your parents were in," he said, "I'm not surprised you have the same traits and talents they did." He then clapped his hands to summon a house elf.

As he appeared, Harry jumped, his eyes widening with surprise at the sudden appearance of the small, wiry creature. Despite his initial shock, he watched with fascination as the house elf bowed low to the Headmaster, its large eyes fixed on Albus. Harry realized that he hadn't noticed the creature who had popped in before, preoccupied with feeling the effects of the potions that Poppy had given him.

"Yes, Headmaster Dumbledore?" the house elf squeaked, its high-pitched voice filling the room. Harry couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the creature, who looked both nervous and eager to please.

"Would you be so kind as to prepare a bed and some basic items in the first-year dormitory of Gryffindor Tower for Mr. Potter?" Albus asked the house elf with a gentle smile, and the small creature bobbed up and down in a show of obedience before disappearing in a flash.

Harry was stunned by the sudden display of magic, and he turned to Albus with wide eyes. "What was that, sir?" he asked in awe, still trying to process what he had just seen.

Albus gave a small chuckle at Harry's question before explaining, "That, my boy, was a house elf. These are magical creatures that have been bound to serve wizards and witches for centuries. They're known for their incredible loyalty and hardworking nature, and they excel in tasks like housekeeping and cooking."

As he spoke, Albus noticed that Harry's eyes were drooping with exhaustion. He placed a comforting hand on the boy's shoulder and spoke in a gentle tone, "You've had quite a day, Harry. It's time for you to rest now. Professor McGonagall will be here to check on you once you wake up, and she'll ensure that you're comfortable."

Harry gave a small nod, feeling grateful for the headmaster's care. As much as he wanted to keep talking and learning about the wizarding world, his body was begging for rest. He couldn't believe how much his life had changed in just one day.

"Professor Snape will be here this evening as well," Albus said, his eyes twinkling mischievously. "He's asked for frequent updates on your health, so I think it's safe to say that he's taken a shine to you. And let me tell you, that's quite an accomplishment, Harry. Professor Snape isn't known for being the friendliest of people."

Albus chuckled softly, but Harry could tell that he was serious about Snape's reputation. Despite his tiredness, Harry's curiosity was piqued, the man had been nothing but kind to him. He would have to figure that out later though as his eyes were starting to droop.

Harry allowed Albus to help him lean back on the pillows and then he closed his eyes and allowed himself to be lulled into a deep sleep by the soothing hum of the magic around him. As he drifted off, he couldn't help but wonder what his life would be like in this new world and really wished they would let him stay when they discovered he was just a freak.

When Harry woke up again, he was experiencing a considerable amount of discomfort due to his healing bones. They felt unbearably hot and restless, as if he had to constantly move them, even though sharp pains shot through his body every time he did so. Additionally, he felt an uncomfortable pressure in his bladder that required urgent relief. Although he was unaware of it, his face was twisted in a grimace.

Someone placed a gentle hand on his shoulder and spoke kindly into his ear. He couldn't understand the words, but the next moment the warm touch vanished, replaced by quick footsteps retreating in the opposite direction. After a few moments, he felt the soothing touch of cool hands helping him swallow potions that quickly eased his discomfort and pain. As he opened his eyes, he recognized the blurred figure of the nurse and another woman whom he didn't know. She must be the other Professor the headmaster had mentioned to him.

The new woman handed Harry his glasses, and he quickly put them on, blinking as he adjusted to the clarity of his vision. Suddenly, he felt a familiar sensation, causing him to blush with embarrassment. "Excuse me, ma'am," he muttered. "I need to use the loo."

The nurse nodded in a professional manner and pulled back the covers to assist him. "I'll help you to the restroom, Mr. Potter."

With the nurse's support, Harry made his way to the restroom and was relieved to find some privacy. After finishing up, he was grateful for the nurse's assistance in returning to his bed. As he sat down, he noticed another woman in the room, who greeted him with a warm smile and introduced herself.

"Hello, Mr. Potter, my name is Professor McGonagall. I'm the head of Gryffindor House," the woman said with a friendly tone.

"Nice to meet you, Professor," Harry replied, feeling a bit embarrassed, but glad the woman had been there when he woke so she could get the nurse.

Once the nurse had finished tucking him back into bed and left the room, Professor McGonagall turned her attention back to Harry. She explained that she had heard about his recent arrival at Hogwarts and that she was delighted he had been sorted into her house.

"Professor Dumbledore told me that you might need some new clothing and other essentials to get you started," she continued. "I thought that once you've been released from the hospital wing, we could take a trip to the nearby village of Hogsmeade. Would that be all right with you, Mr. Potter?"

Harry gave a nod, but shifted his gaze to his lap. "I don't have any money," he confessed.

The professor responded with a smile. "Not to worry, Mr. Potter. You needn't concern yourself with that."

The boy looked shyly through the hair that had fallen in his face. "But who..."

The professor anticipated Harry's question and answered it before he could finish. "There really is no need to worry there are certain funds available for students, Mr. Potter. You are not the first student who has found themselves in a similar situation, nor will you be the last unfortunately."

Although Harry nodded to acknowledge the professor's words, he couldn't help but feel a sense of shame for needing charity. He felt like a burden on everyone, and the idea of accepting help without being able to pay them back made him uneasy. Perhaps he could offer to work and repay the funds he received.

Lost in thought, Harry was snapped out of his reverie by the professor's gentle voice. "Mr. Potter, is everything alright?"

Startled by the professor's question, Harry looked up and apologized. "I'm sorry, Professor. I was just thinking," he explained.

The professor nodded, then listened as Harry suggested that he could work off the funds by offering his skills in the kitchen. "I'm quite handy in the kitchen, Professor," Harry said. "Maybe I could work in the school's kitchen or cafeteria to pay back what I owe."

Minerva sadly smiled at the boy. His family had done a number on him. No child should worry about how to pay for their basic needs, let alone feel shame for needing help. "Mr. Potter, there is no need for you to feel embarrassed or ashamed about accepting help," Minerva said, her voice gentle but firm. "It is Hogwarts duty to help when you need it."

Giving a quick nod Harry couldn't shake off the feeling of unease that was gnawing at him. He didn't know what he was feeling, to be honest. There were so many conflicting emotions balled up inside of him - fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, and more. Minerva saw those emotions flicker through his eyes, and she sighed inwardly. She knew that a simple conversation wouldn't be enough to ease Harry's worries, but she hoped that actions would make him feel safe and secure.

Harry's head of house placed a comforting hand on Harry's shoulder and looked him in the eye. "Harry, I know that you have been through a lot, and it's understandable that you may feel uncertain or uneasy. But I want you to know that you are safe here at Hogwarts, and we will do everything we can to ensure your well-being."

Harry looked at Minerva and forced a small smile, but he couldn't help feeling like he was alone in his struggles. He didn't want to burden anyone with his problems, but he didn't know how to cope on his own either. "Thank you, Professor," he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Minerva could sense the boy's apprehension and wanted to do more to help him feel at ease. "Harry, if you ever need to talk to someone, please know that I am here for you. You are not alone in this, and we want to support you in any way we can. Whether it's through counseling, mentoring, or just a friendly conversation, my office is open to you."

The professor took a deep breath, hoping to bring a little levity to the tense atmosphere. "Did you know, Mr. Potter, that your mother was one of the best students I ever had the pleasure of teaching?" she asked with a fond smile. "And your father, well, he was quite the rule-breaker. I hope you don't follow in his footsteps," she added with a mischievous grin and a wink.

With newfound curiosity, Harry looked up at Professor McGonagall. He had always wondered what his parents were like, but he had never dared to ask because when he had asked his relatives he had just been smacked. Now, he felt a spark of hope that he might learn more about them from someone who knew them well. For a moment, he forgot all about their earlier conversation and felt a sense of excitement.

"Really?" Harry asked, his voice tinged with interest.

A small smile crept on Minerva's face as she spoke about Harry's parents. "Your mother was an exceptional student, Harry. She always had top marks in Transfiguration," she said, admiration clear in her voice. "Your father, on the other hand," she shook her head slightly, "was quite the prankster. He had a knack for mischief and was known to play tricks on his fellow students. In fact," Minerva's eyes twinkled with mirth, "he once turned Professor Dumbledore's hair bright red, much to the Headmaster's chagrin."

A soft chuckle escaped Harry's lips, much to the delight of Minerva. "Thank you, Professor," he said, feeling grateful for the momentary diversion from everything that had happened in the last day.

Minerva's eyes gleamed with warmth and admiration as she spoke of Harry's parents. "Your parents were some of the most exceptional people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. They were brave, kind, and fiercely loyal to those they loved," she said, her voice gentle and earnest. "I can see those same traits in you, Mr. Potter, and I have no doubt that you will thrive here at Hogwarts and in Gryffindor."

She continued, "Please know that my door is always open to you, should you need someone to talk to or simply a listening ear. And if ever you wish to hear a story about your parents, I would be honored to share them with you." Minerva smiled at Harry, hoping that her words would give him some comfor.

As Harry smiled in response to Minerva's kind words, he couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. Perhaps he had found a place where he could fit in and be accepted for who he was. However, his inner doubts still lingered, threatening to undermine this newfound sense of belonging.

With a gentle smile, Minerva noticed Harry's thoughts were drifting again and she wanted to bring him back to the present. She took out her wand and cast the Tempus spell to check the time. "I see it's lunchtime. Are you feeling hungry, Harry?"

Harry's stomach grumbled in response to Minerva's question, causing her to chuckle. "Yeah, I am actually quite hungry, Professor," he replied.

Minerva's smile widened as she snapped her fingers, summoning a house-elf to her side. "Excuse me, would you mind bringing us some tuna sandwiches and two mugs of tomato soup?" she requested, glancing over at Harry for his approval. He nodded in agreement, and the house-elf quickly disappeared with a pop.

Moments later, the elf returned with their meals and positioned a tray of food on the bedside table for Minerva. As for Harry, he placed his tray directly in front of him on the bed before the elf disappeared, leaving the two to eat their meal.

Minerva savored her soup as she observed Harry nibbling at his sandwich and sipping his soup with caution. She couldn't help but feel a little disappointed when he finished quickly, but she didn't let it show on her face. Instead, she gently urged him to take a few more sips of his soup, hoping to encourage him to eat a bit more.

Harry complied and took a few more sips of the warm tomato soup, feeling the heat spread throughout his body. He felt a sense of comfort and warmth in his stomach, which was a welcome change from the constant feeling of anxiety and fear he had been experiencing since...well since a long time.

He finished quickly, feeling full and a bit tired. He set the remaining food aside and leaned back into the bed. Minerva noticed that he seemed a little exhausted and made a mental note to keep an eye on his eating habits. She was sure that Poppy was already monitoring him, but an extra pair of eyes wouldn't hurt.

With a soft smile, she put her hand on Harry's shoulder and said, "You should get some rest now, Harry. We can continue our conversation later. I'm glad you're feeling better."

Minerva helped him get comfortable in bed by adjusting his pillows and took his glasses, which she put on the table. She watched him close his eyes and settle in for a nap, while she finished her lunch and thought about her new charge. She was furious at Albus, but her main concern was Harry.

As soon as Minerva had finished her meal and was certain that Harry had fallen asleep, she made her way to Poppy's office for a chat. She needed some help sorting out her thoughts and she wanted to tell the nurse her observations.

Several hours had passed, and another visitor had taken a seat next to Harry's bed in the hospital wing. This time, as his vision slowly came into focus, Harry was relieved to recognize the blurry, dark figure as the man who had saved him the previous night. With a gentle hand, the man passed Harry his glasses and placed a book he had been reading on the nightstand. As the world around him became clearer, Harry turned his gaze towards the man and offered him a grateful nod of thanks.

Severus leaned in and asked in a soft, concerned tone, "How are you feeling, Harry? I hope Madam Pomfrey's been taking good care of you. She mentioned that your bones are healing nicely, and you should be able to head back to your house tomorrow afternoon."

"I'm doing okay, sir," Harry nodded in response, although he couldn't help feeling a bit nervous at the thought of moving to a new dorm. With that transition would come the end of his brief reprieve from his relatives, and the return to a life of uncertainty and fear. Despite the hope he had gained from being sorted into Gryffindor, he couldn't shake the anxiety that gnawed at him, threatening to steal away the brief moments of peace he had found.

Severus sensed Harry's anxiety, but he didn't want to add to the boy's burden by prying. Instead, he decided to try and lighten the mood. "I heard you were sorted into Gryffindor, just like your parents," he remarked with a small smile. "You'll do well there, but beware of those brave, dunderheaded lions. Although, I suppose you're not so much of a dunderhead yourself. Don't let them change that," he added with a mischievous wink.

Harry couldn't help but chuckle at Severus' lighthearted jab at the Gryffindors. The teasing banter between the two was unexpected, but it was a welcome distraction from his worries. "Thanks, sir," Harry replied, feeling a bit more hopeful than he had just moments before. "I'll do my best to keep my wits about me."

Severus gave Harry a warning. "I'll be straight with you, Harry. I'm the head of Slytherin house, and we're rivals with Gryffindor. So don't be surprised if I'm not always friendly. I have a reputation to keep up, you know. But don't take it personally if I call you a dunderhead. I will have to play my part as the hated dungeon bat."

With a sly grin on his face, Severus leaned in closer to Harry. "But between you and me, I have to admit that Gryffindors can be quite admirable. They're known for their bravery and daring, after all. But don't let that get around, or I might lose my reputation as a Slytherin. Rest assured, though, I'll always keep a close eye on you, no matter what house you're in."

Harry nodded, but felt a bit uncertain about the rivalry between the houses. He made a mental note to learn more about it later. He hoped that his new Professor and savior wouldn't be too harsh on him, although he knew he would probably make mistakes and deserve some name calling.

Severus changed the subject once again. "I brought one of your school books so you can get a jump start," he said, handing over the book to Harry. Harry was surprised by Snape's unexpected act of kindness. He had never expected his potions professor to be so thoughtful.

"Thank you, sir," Harry said, taking the book from him.

Severus nodded, his expression unreadable. "Don't thank me yet, Mr. Potter. It's only the beginning of the term. You'll need all the help you can get if you want to keep up with my class."

Harry swallowed nervously, feeling a knot form in his stomach. He had a feeling that Potions was going to be one of his toughest subject if he did get to attend this school.

"Why don't you read the first chapter and then I'll answer any questions you have. When you're finished I'll fetch us some dinner?"

Harry nodded, grateful for the distraction. He opened the book and began reading, his mind quickly becoming absorbed in the world of magic and potions. As he became engrossed in the book, Snape noticed how focused he was and decided to leave him to his reading. Before he left the room, he gestured to Harry that he was heading to Poppy's office.

With a gentle knock on the door, Snape waited for a response before entering. Upon hearing the confirmation, he pushed the door open and was met with the sight of a weary nurse, who smiled at his arrival. "Are you satisfied that he's alright?" she asked him.

Snape let out an exasperated sigh, "Perhaps he is physically fine," he said, before his expression turned serious. "But do you truly believe he's prepared to join the dormitory tomorrow? Shouldn't he be given time to acclimate to this new and unfamiliar world before being thrust into the midst of a crowd?"

Poppy gave Snape a calculating look. "I think Harry still has some doubts about whether he truly belongs here or not. Placing him with the other students might help alleviate those fears. Albus and Minerva have already reassured him that he's welcome here, and I believe you have as well. Perhaps making some friends would help those reassurances sink in."

Severus raised an eyebrow, considering Madam Pomfrey's words. "I see your point, but we can't ignore the fact that he's had a traumatic experience. We must take care to ensure his well-being and not overwhelm him."

Madam Pomfrey nodded in agreement. "Of course, Seveerus. But we must also consider the importance of socialization and peer support in a school setting."

Sighing, Severus realized the truth in her words. "Very well, we will allow him to join his dormitory tomorrow. But we must keep a watchful eye on him and step in if needed," he replied. "We have a staff meeting scheduled for later this evening, do we not?"

"Yes, that's correct," Poppy confirmed with a nod.

"Good," Severus replied, turning to leave. "I'll make sure to bring up Harry's situation during the meeting."

As Severus made his way towards the door, Poppy stepped closer to him and rested a gentle hand on his shoulder. "And how are you holding up?" she asked with concern.

Severus shrugged her hand off and continued walking towards the door. "I'm fine," he grumbled, not bothering to turn back.

"Severus, you don't need to hide from me," Poppy called after him, watching him leave the room. She saw him give a small nod but sighed, knowing how stubborn he could be. She would never stop trying to get him to open up to her.

Returning to Harry's bedside, Snape observed that the boy had completed the first chapter and was now engrossed in the second. He couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that Lily's intelligence had clearly been passed on to her son.

As he approached the bed, he summoned a house elf and requested that they bring dinner for both himself and Harry. The elf promptly disappeared with a nod, leaving Snape to resume his observation of the young wizard.

"Do you understand what you've read so far?" he asked, curious about Harry's comprehension. "Do you have any questions?"

As he spoke, a house elf appeared and set up a tray with supper for both of them. One tray was placed at the foot of Harry's bed, while the other was set on the bedside table for Severus.

Harry looked up from the book and nodded. "Yeah, it's fascinating. I have a few questions though," he said, gesturing to the book. "Can you explain what this ingredient does? And what about this spell? How does it work?"

Severus sat down in the chair next to the bed, reaching for the tray of food on his table. "Of course, ask away." He took a bite of his food, savoring the flavor before turning his attention to Harry's questions. Together they discussed the intricacies of the potions and spells described in the book, with Severus answering Harry's queries in detail.

As they ate and talked, the room grew quiet, the only sounds coming from the turning of pages and the occasional clink of utensils on plates. Severus felt a sense of contentment settle over him, as if, for this moment, everything was as it should be and that was something to ponder on later.