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Great news, everyone! Tomorrow, enjoy a bonus chapter as a treat. Consider this current chapter a test run, just the icing on the cake.
I've also decided to edit all previous chapters before releasing the next one tomorrow.
When tomorrow's chapter is live, give the book a reread from the start and let me know how you like the improved version. Thanks for the support, and get ready for some fantastic upgrades!
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When they re-entered the room, Harry had immersed himself in his book once more, engrossed in the world of words. The creak of the door caught his attention, prompting him to glance up.
"Well, Harry, based on the examination results, you'll need to stay here at St. Mungo's for at least two days," declared the healer.
"We'll need to administer some potions to address lingering injuries from your past," added Ickings, eyeing Harry's history on parchment.
"And we'll tend to those scars on your back," Ickings stated matter-of-factly.
Harry furrowed his brow, discomfort flashing across his face. The scars served as silent witnesses to a time he'd rather forget, a reminder of his vulnerability.
"Harry, whatever happened to you, none of it was your fault, and you're certainly not weak," reassured Ickings, sensing the weight on the boy's shoulders.
Harry met his gaze defiantly. "I know it wasn't my fault. It was the Dursleys' fault. I've long understood that they're the ones to blame. But I still don't like to think about it."
Healer Ickings acknowledged Harry's resilience but harbored concerns about the emotional toll. Unaddressed scars could pose challenges later in life. Determined to support Harry, he resolved to arrange sessions with a mind healer.
"Good. Often, children from abusive families mistakenly believe they're at fault for strained relationships with their caregivers," Ickings explained.
"It's reassuring that you've realized the truth for yourself. We'll also have a dark curses expert examine the scar on your forehead. After ten years, it shouldn't show residues of dark magic anymore."
Harry nodded, adamant about avoiding any lingering effects from that fateful attack.
"What will you tell the Dursleys? They'll be furious that I have to stay in the hospital," Harry inquired.
"Don't worry about them. The Ministry of Magic will investigate them for child abuse," reassured the healer.
"The magical law patrol and the muggle police are collaborating on this case. Your relatives, as I understand, are muggles with a strong aversion or fear of magic," the healer explained.
"Probably both," Harry added with a wry smile.
"In any case, experts will handle the investigation. I'll request the Department for Magical Law Enforcement (DMLE) to issue a removal order for you from their house," Ickings stated firmly.
"A member of the magical patrol will retrieve your belongings. Until the case is resolved – and with the straightforward medical report, it should be swift – you'll be a ward of the governments."
"As someone raised by muggles, both the magical and muggle governments are responsible for you," Ickings continued.
"Procedures will begin to find you a new guardian as soon as possible. However, given the ongoing investigation, I don't anticipate it happening before the Christmas holidays at Hogwarts," he added, offering a glimpse of hope.
Harry nodded thoughtfully. Hogwarts seemed like a promising chapter, especially if he could continue his studies.
Yet, he reserved his final decision until he delved into his books and perhaps engaged in conversations with the healers and nurses at the hospital – a potential wellspring of information. After all, knowledge was power.
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