Harry Potter : Cael Vale’s journey to Hogwarts

The sun shone brightly over Diagon Alley as the crowd bustled through the cobbled streets. Parents hurried along, dragging excited children in tow, while some youngsters whined and pleaded for the newest Nimbus 2000 broomstick — a request most parents firmly refused.

Amidst the noise and excitement, Cael stood behind the counter at Flourish and Blotts, sorting books and assisting customers. He had been working here for weeks now, helping the owner manage the growing demand for Hogwarts supplies.

As he flipped through a book during a brief quiet moment, the sound of approaching footsteps caught his attention. A girl stopped in front of the counter and spoke politely,

"Excuse me… is this where I get the books for first-year students at Hogwarts?"

Cael looked up, his eyes landing on the girl—and for a moment, he froze. Brown, bushy hair framed her face, and her large front teeth and curious brown eyes reminded him of someone all too familiar.

Before he could process his thoughts, a sharp voice snapped him back to reality,

"If you're done staring, perhaps you could help Miss Granger with her schoolbooks, Mr. Vole."

Cael's head jerked up to see none other than Professor McGonagall standing behind the girl, her expression as stern as ever. Embarrassment flushed his face as he quickly set down the book and scrambled to gather the necessary supplies.

"Oh, hello, Professor… Long time no see," Cael stammered with an awkward laugh, trying to mask his surprise. "I was staring because… I thought I recognized her from somewhere."

In truth, Cael could hardly believe it — one of the trio was standing before him: Hermione Granger herself, the cleverest witch of her age.

Shaking off the moment, he placed the stack of first-year books on the counter.

"Would you like to take these with you, or shall we send them to your home, Miss?"

Hermione, who had wandered off to browse a nearby shelf, glanced back, her eyes shining with excitement.

"No, I'll carry them. I want to start reading them right away," she replied eagerly, handing over her payment before stacking the books carefully in her arms.

Professor McGonagall gave Cael a curious look.

"So, Mr. Vole, what are you doing here? You know the owner, I assume? That's why you're helping?"

Cael shook his head, brushing a hand through his hair.

"No, Professor. I've been working here for about a month and a half now."

Her brow arched.

"Have you been living here this entire time?"

"Yes," Cael replied simply. "I rented a room at the Leaky Cauldron. It's convenient. I can practice my magic here too."

The professor's expression softened slightly, though her tone remained measured.

"And Madam Linda? Did she give permission for this? Legally, she's still your guardian."

"She's gone to America," Cael explained. "The orphanage is closed for now, so I came here to find work."

Professor McGonagall's features softened further, a hint of concern flashing in her eyes.

"If you ever need help, you can ask me. I am your Head of House, after all," she reminded him gently. "And be careful, Cael… things aren't exactly safe for Muggle-borns these days."

A warmth stirred in Cael's chest at her words. He smiled, sincere this time.

"Thank you, Professor. I'll be careful."

The professor turned to leave, Hermione trailing behind her, though the girl's ears seemed fixed on every word of their exchange. Just as they reached the door, McGonagall glanced over her shoulder with a mischievous glint in her eye, one that reminded Cael of a cat about to pounce.

"Oh, and Mr. Vole…" she added slyly, "Madam Malkin showed me the photos from the shop. You look rather lovely in those dresses."

Before Cael could muster a response, she disappeared through the door, a confused Hermione hurrying after her.

Cael, meanwhile, stood frozen, mortified as the weight of what she'd just said sank in.

Inside his mind, the familiar voice of the system chimed in, laughing,

"Well, I didn't see that one coming. Even Professor McGonagall's teasing you now! Hahahaha…"

Cael groaned, rubbing his face.

"I'll get used to it," he muttered, recalling an old saying. " as once a great Dwarf said 'Never forget what you are. The rest of the world won't. Wear it like armor, and it can never be used to hurt you' ."

The system snorted in disbelief.

"That's the most ridiculously dramatic thing you've said yet. That quote doesn't even apply here! According to that, you hate your looks— is that what you're saying?"

Cael smirked, straightening his collar.

"Nope. I happen to think I'm quite handsome."

The system sighed in exasperation.

" tsk Narcissistic Bastard …"