Harry Potter: Archmage of Another World

The crimson moon hung high in the sky, casting a somber glow over the darkened heavens. The Ziyao Cloud Tower sailed smoothly across the expanse, its trajectory unwavering amidst the silent void.

For Augustus, the decision to descend upon this particular plane was not made on a whim. As a neighboring dimension to Earth, and within the search radius of the interstellar grid map, such intermediate magical planes were exceedingly rare. Given the current hardware capabilities of the Cloud Tower, leaping to this nearby dimension was already pushing the limits. Furthermore, Augustus had conducted a full day of field reconnaissance during the tests that harnessed the abilities of the basalt-enhanced Cloud Tower.

With his elevated spiritual state, Augustus faced little exertion in performing broad-range spiritual surveys of an intermediate magical plane. After all, becoming a legendary mage entailed mastery of elemental affinity, communion with nature, and systematic analysis of planar geography—skills essential for interdimensional travel.

Through his observations, Augustus determined that the unique planar properties of this intermediate magical dimension made it an ideal training ground. The abundance and vibrancy of magical elements in this world were unparalleled, offering an excellent environment for novices to hone their skills. Additionally, due to the overwhelming concentration of magical elements, the wild magical beasts here possessed intelligence and combat prowess far beyond most Earth creatures. As such, it was a perfect trial ground for aspiring magic apprentices.

This dimension was also home to human kingdoms dominated by slavery, reflecting the revival stage of a mid-level magical civilization. The societal framework, whether labor liberation or technological progression, dictated the plane's defining attributes and collective direction.

Differences in societal structures also catalyzed distinct systems of power and civilization. Even within advanced technological planes, authoritarian empires existed. Similarly, low-level magical and technological worlds like Earth could still give rise to societies with sophisticated governance and potential for significant growth. Augustus firmly believed that, given time, Earth's latent potential would erupt, propelling it into an era of explosive development.

The cold night air signaled their approach to their destination. The Cloud Tower gradually slowed as they neared a vast mountain range. Majestic peaks pierced the clouds, stretching for thousands of miles, while gray mists enshrouded the distant ridges like frozen monoliths standing silently in the heavens. Beneath the blood-red moonlight, the echoes of sharp, guttural howls reverberated through the valleys, imbuing the darkened landscape with an air of desolate solemnity.

Suspended in the sky, the Cloud Tower came to a halt high above the mountain range. Augustus assessed their position and began to execute the next phase of his plan.

"Does this mean we've arrived?" Loki leaned against the massive floor-to-ceiling window in the lounge, his amber eyes reflecting the scarlet veins of the mountainous terrain below.

Curled up in a corner, listening to the eerie howls from outside the tower, Zacharias Smith's face paled. "Is Augustus really just going to abandon us here? What kind of place is this?" He shivered slightly. "The red moonlight from the sky feels oddly cold. Can you feel it too?"

Marietta, Cho Chang's friend, cast him a disdainful glance. "If you're this scared already, even before the trial begins, you should just give up now. I'm sure Augustus wouldn't mind sending you back."

Zacharias shrank back awkwardly and opened his mouth to retort, but before he could say anything, a white beam of light enveloped the room.

The next instant, Harry felt the soft touch of soil underfoot. A cold wind swept past as he found himself under the crimson moonlight, surrounded by a crowd of bewildered people.

"From here, you must proceed on foot across this mountain range. The Cloud Tower and I will wait for you at the foothills on the other side. Time flows differently in this plane compared to Earth, so rest assured: even if you spend a month here, only half a day will pass back on Earth. The trial begins now. Good luck." Augustus's voice echoed from above as the Ziyao Cloud Tower emitted a radiant burst of purple light. Moments later, it faded into the horizon.

The crowd erupted into chaos. Complaints, groans, and shouts filled the cold air.

"Quiet!" Hermione cleared her throat sharply, attempting to mimic Umbridge's piercing tone. "Quiet down, everyone. Listen to me!"

But the noise persisted, and no one paid her any attention.

"Silence!" A spell-enhanced voice rang out, reverberating across the air like a thunderclap.

The clamor instantly ceased. The crowd froze, stunned, and turned to face Hermione.

She blushed slightly, embarrassed by the unintended power of her spell in this world, but quickly regained her composure. "Good. Now that I have your attention, let's get organized and discuss our situation calmly."

Seeing no objections, Hermione smiled slightly and continued, "As Augustus mentioned, this is no longer our world."

Someone tried to interject, but Hermione held up a hand. "I know what you're thinking, but there's no need to worry. Augustus made it clear: we only need to cross this mountain range to complete the trial and return to Earth."

"Easier said than done," Dean Thomas muttered. "If this isn't Earth, then the creatures in these mountains are bound to be unfamiliar—and likely dangerous. Charging blindly through the unknown is just asking for trouble."

Cho Chang smirked. "If Augustus brought us here and designated it as a trial ground for magic apprentices, the creatures here won't be insurmountable. Besides, a trial inherently involves risks. If you're only interested in safety, you could've stuck with Umbridge's tedious Defense Against the Dark Arts curriculum. Why bother joining the Julius Army?"

Hermione nodded in agreement, and many others in the group seemed reassured, their expressions softening. Dean, however, remained silent, his face dark with discontent.

It was clear: the trial had begun, and there was no turning back.

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