Have you ever found yourself wondering how things could’ve been different with one simple decision? Perhaps you’re familiar with the butterfly effect, and know that one small change can have massive implications in the future. This series asks the hard hitting questions about our magical world, with you having an opportunity to share how you think things would have changed - for better or worse.
Everyone who comments with their ideas will receive a prize of
3 wizard cards, so make sure to take part in each week's edition! And if you have your own ideas for a Whaf If?, please owl them to Raeh Thatcher.
Let's get into one Harry himself asked:
What if Neville had been the chosen one instead? What would the biggest difference be in the story?
It seems like the Longbottoms were attacked after Voldemort’s disappearance at the hands of the Potters so if Voldemort had targeted Neville first his parents would have been there. As both were talented Aurors, I think they may have put up more of a fight (without having a rat as their Secret Keeper) as well. I would suggest that one parent escapes with Neville, whilst the other sacrifices themselves to keep Voldemort at bay long enough for the escape. However, I do think Voldemort does then go after the Potters as well and we get the events of the main story unfolding again. Having one parent left does make Neville more confident, and the shared history brings Harry and Neville closer once it is revealed.
Am I in the right track? What do you think would have happened?