Disclaimer: All Harry Potter characters and story affiliations mentioned in this fan fiction all belong to JK Rowling and legal associations. I own nothing of it nor am I profiting from it now or planning to in the future in any way. The only exception of profit is to my self for literary improvement.
Author to Reader Note: I ran into two major/minor snags on this chapter. One was writer's block trying to link certain key points. Let me warn you now that I'm not satisfied with this chapter because the flow never seemed right. It's also almost twice as long as any of the others. The reason for this was that certain points didn't work in right until this chapter. The second is, as some of you already know, I work for the college that I attend as a computer technician. So much of the summer is used to overhaul servers, office computer replacement and the like. This summer has been the worst because layoffs and cut backs have made our working times quite strenuous. I still have every intention of finishing this story, you can be sure of that as taxes.
I've have been asked about my character Daken as an original character. Daken is from a story I wrote in my middle school time about a vampire that when human had watched his family slaughtered and his attackers turned him into one. He wanders the earth for years in search of those who committed those atrocities, seeking to destroy them. Spending years resenting what humanity takes for granted and indulging in the sweet vengeance. However the Daken in this story is seriously toned-down as originally he is homicidally insane. That is until he finds that his own heart is not as frozen as thought when meeting another on a quest for vengeance.
Returning back to the story at hand let me also add that I'm under the impression from the ending of the fourth book that Harry only told Sirius and Dumbledore the events of the maze and cemetery. I may be wrong, as the fifth book appeared to have indicated to me. I just ask that my perception please be kept in mind in reading this chapter and for future chapters. Since that is what I thought upon starting this story.
Some memory pieces mentioned in the end are made up from guessing from material in the books and not actually stated.
This chapter has not undergone a FULL beta read for corrections but I wanted so badly to post it, so I hope its okay. This chapter is like 90 pages on my MS Word so if you want to read the whole thing, you might want a soda and snack.
By the way I only have one active Beta reader and if anyone else wants to be one give me a holler at itmonster@hotmail.com.
Revised 1/22/03
Harry Potter and the Turmoil Within
Chapter 25
Storm of Torment
Part 2
"Finally I've really been looking forward to this," said Ron quite excited after a minute.
"Looking forward to what," asked Harry?
"There's a shop I've wanted to go into for the longest time," answered Ron, then his ears redden as he finished with, "Bill's gone there a few times… but I always had to wait outside… the door won't open for me… he always gets something for a girl there and they always like it… there's a sign that's said before that I have to be at least fifteen…and so now's my chance… and yours too."
"What kind of shop is it," asked Harry, his curiosity peeking?
Ron shrugged his shoulders as he responded, "We're going to find out."
And through the streets of Diagon Alley they went with Ron leading the way.
Elsewhere in a small shop Ginny had insisted upon going, Hermione looked around as Rela and Ginny went directly to a section in the back. Hermione spotted a display case full of different bottles of potions. Looking closer, she found that many of them were love potions.
"Have an eye on chap do we," said a lady suddenly behind the case, "I don't think you'd need it… but never hurts to have a little edge?"
Hermione redden suddenly and a thought came to mind.
"Aren't love potions suppose to be illegal," asked Hermione
The lady behind the case gave Hermione a smile and answered, "Only to an extent… if the potion is heavily deluded like Muggle perfumes… its okay… heavier purified versions are allowed only for married couples… then there are the tailored versions… mind you those are allowed only in the case that a relationship is clearly defined… otherwise it just depends on the situation… but any shop that legally sells love potions has a license and their bottles clearly marked to identify from what shop it came."
Hermione listened to the woman but only one thing stuck in her mind.
"What do you mean by tailored versions, "inquired Hermione?
The lady's smile broaden and she gave Hermione a peering look as she answered, "Love potions… that a girl like you… or even a boy… can wear like a perfume and its 'tailored' to affect only one particular person. Do you have a boy you'd like to have paying more attention to you? Mind you I said there has to be a definite relationship before you can use it legally."
Hermione knew her body was pushing the limits on how far her face could redden but she continued, remembering something that happened before and what Daken had said.
"Can any love potion be tailored," pressed Hermione?
Now the smile altered to devious as one eyebrow raised and she answered, "Just about… is there one you're specifying?"
Hermione hesitated before responding with," Aphrodite's Kiss?"
The lady's response was not what Hermione expected. Rather than make a judgment to a very illegal potion she became even more interested.
"And how did you get that?" whispered the woman most interestedly, "I've been trying to get a license for ages."
"I don't actually have it," hastily added Hermione, "I'm a student at Hogwarts… and the potion was used earlier in the term… but it only affected one boy. So I was curious to know how a powerful potion like that could be so controlled."
If possible the woman's curiosity grew as she came around the case and stood closely to Hermione.
"I'd like to know who the unfortunate boy was… believe me from what I know falling prey to a potion like that can be disastrous," whispered the woman, "Once the boy is exposed… the girl usually has long lasting control over him… she just needs to seal it with a kiss… hence Aphrodite's Kiss."
Hermione thought fast and remembered that Cho had tried to kiss Harry in the Great Hall regardless of who saw. Then in the potions class, she tried to get Harry to kiss her. Hermione remembered how Harry had fought it but she wondered what snapped him out of it and into that enraged vampire self.
"It didn't work… well actually it almost did but Harry… I mean the boy resisted it," answered Hermione, "But I still want to know how she could make it affect only him… there was another boy there but it didn't anything to him."
Hermione had said Harry's name and in almost doing so the woman had stared, almost hungrily like Lavender at impending gossip, to hear the whole name.
"Well blood is how you do it," said the woman in an odd knowing manner, "Muggles call it pheromones… and since they're in the blood… add a few drops… plus an ingredient or two… and you have a love potion ready for just one boy… a potential slave to your whims."
Hermione began thinking suddenly and wondering how did Cho get any of Harry's blood to do that.
"I might also add that considering it was the Aphrodite's Kiss," added the woman, "That girl must have been quite something with potions because powerful ones like that is meant more for larger numbers than one… it takes great skill to limited that to just one boy."
Hermione didn't get a chance to ask further as Rela and Ginny arrived, ready with purchases and Hermione made a hasty grab for a hair potion she saw earlier. The girls purchased their items and left, all the while the woman Hermione had spoken to watched them leave.
"Melinda, "said the woman as she walked towards a back room, "What was the name of that professor… the one at Hogwarts… he sent us a dried potion to test remember?"
Another woman appeared and she answered, "Snape… Severus Snape. Why did you want to know, Nina?"
"Because Hermione Granger was just here… the same one from his letter," added Nina, the woman Hermione had spoken too, "And considering the name she almost said… I'd turn my hair pink for a week if it wasn't Harry Potter she as talking about."
"You think that's the boy who Snape said resisted… he never said a name," inquired Melinda quickly.
"A person like Harry Potter… I'm not surprised it wasn't said," giggled Nina, "I'd love to know how he resisted it… or should I say who for? It would take a strong will to resist it."
Melinda and Nina just gave each other look and smiled knowingly.
Meanwhile the boys had arrived at Ron's desired location. At first Harry was a bit confused; it was dingy building that was lopsided. The stone along with the walk way looked as though they hadn't been tended to in years. The windows were covered and the only marking was a relatively new looking plaque by the door that had the name Binkins engraved on it.
Harry was about to inquire but Ron looked excited and stepped up to the door. He took hold of the door and a ding sounded, Ron looked even happier and opened the door calling for Harry to hurry up.
Harry walked forward and reached for the door when it slammed shut. He stood on the landing apprehensive when a voice above him said in a very curt tone, "You must be at least fifteen years of age to enter. If you are the door will open."
Harry gripped the handle and felt something prick at his hand. Before he decided to let go, a ding sounded again and the door swung loose in his hand. With that Harry stepped in to find Ron, his ears burning red.
As if the front part hadn't confusing enough, it was even stranger inside. The shop it-self was mainly dark but all the items were lit it up by a source of light shining directly from the ceiling, illuminating only the area in which the items lay. There were odd garments displayed in some places. Shelves with books titled in strange characters. Bottles with bright substances lined one wall, some even seem to glow. Flowers Harry had never seen before nor looked familiar in any way were displayed in case. Every where there things he had never seen and wondered what the draw to this place was. Thank fully more normal items were also in the shop. Things like specially made quills and ink jars. More normally looking blouses and skirts as well as robes that had glittered or twinkling spots on them. It was a mish mash of items, the kind that seemed to bring the reddening to their faces and the kind that seemed to be found in a normal shop.
"They look a bit too young," said a girl's voice sweetly.
Harry looked and saw someone in one of the dark areas near him. All he could see was a figure of what appeared to be a girl, taller than him.
"For them the bell has rung," said another girl's voice, just as sweet but with a higher pitch.
Harry saw another similar figure by Ron now.
Harry found him-self preparing to reach for his wand as pressure around his temples built, like something trying to reach into his head.
"This one knows what he wants, "said the one closest to Harry, "But is still confused."
Harry looked at her again and saw she was a little shorter than him with hair past the shoulders. Harry blinked suddenly as he distinctly remembered that she had been taller a moment ago.
"This one likes a petite and blonde," said the one by Ron and now she was Ron's height with hair down to her waist, "With gifts he does not abuse."
"They're changing," whispered Harry surprised.
Ron whispered back, "I think they're something like Metamorpheguses… Daken said something about one he met before… they change their appearance at will."
"Little details are all I can find," said the one next Harry suddenly, "But she has hair not too long."
"His hides her nature," spoke the other, "But has done no wrong."
Harry again whispered to Ron, asking, "Why are they talking in rhymes?"
Ron only shook his head, not knowing why.
"Lu… Nu… that's enough," announced a witch from up front, "This is their first time here and we don't want to scare them off… I think they're here for simpler gifts… this time anyways."
The one by Ron turn to walk away but hesitated as the other by Harry remained.
"What's the matter Lu," asked the woman up front?
"His mind is too strong, "answered the strange girl now identified as Lu," The female is still unclear."
Harry didn't find her words very enjoyable.
"He has a brother we know," stated the other, apparently named Nu, "Before he has brought you near."
"Again I wish to play," stated Lu sweetly but quite strongly.
In an airy manner, Nu also stated, "Between both we need a day."
"Girls, "again spoke the woman up front, much more serious now, "I said that was enough."
Without further word, the two strange girls walked away. They passed under a light and in that moment from behind they looked exactly like Hermione and Rela. A glance at Ron showed he was thinking the same thing.
"They were reading our minds." whispered Harry.
"And changing into the girls," whispered Ron in return.
"Sorry for the overwhelming welcome," said the woman," Come up here so I can get a better look at you two."
They walked up to the woman at a counter with shelves behind it displaying another set of mix items.
"Well given that you two are only fifteen," said the woman as they came to stop in front of the counter, "I'll guess that my main stock is a bit too early for you two right now."
The woman laughed and the boys tried to look natural while aware of the strange girls still in the depths of store looking at them.
"I'm known as Binkins… like the sign out front," stated Binkins, "Let me start by saying our policy. First off, we don't exactly advertise our-selves. We're known by word of mouth among men. Second, regardless of your impressions; let me tell you now we don't cater to anything of a behind-the-scenes nature. Our market is the clueless crowd such as young men like your-selves looking to get a gift that says just what they want to a young lady… I like to think of my-self as a romantic… lastly and importantly anything said, heard or anyone seen here remains a secret. Break any of those rules to our policy and you'll never set foot in here again. I have frequent customers that require discretion as I'm sure you would want the same. "
Harry started to feel more comfortable now, his tensions eased as Binkins spoke that a place that seemed rather untamed wasn't as wild as it appeared to be.
"I'd say look around but again I think you're a tad young for that now… even if you did pass the age spell," suggested Binkins, "So why don't we try the best method most men use here? You tell me about the girls, how you feel about them and I'm pretty sure I can come up with something that suits… I haven't had a complaint yet so I'd say my track record is pretty good… lets start with you, Bill's brother."
Binkins looked at Ron who looked blankly back.
"Just describe her as you see her," urged Binkins gently, "Then what you feel when you see or think of her… names are not needed."
Harry watched Ron swallow and hesitate for a moment.
"Well she's pretty… really gentle…likes animals, mostly birds especially hawks," started Ron but as he started his eyes went distance and he spoke more comfortably, "Her voice is like music to me… every time I see her… its like for the first time… and I wonder if its just a dream for second… she's really sensitive… always worried about how people react to her… scared they'll find out she's a Whasperor… but she's never done anything to me… and I've told her it doesn't bother me… and kissing her has been."
Before the last comment was finished, a loud pop sounded and Ron jumped as if awakened. Binkins had an odd look to her face, a mixture of amusement, thoughtfulness and also surprise.
"A Whasperor huh," said Binkins, writing something on a piece of parchment, "That's quite something original... she has a right to be worried about reactions… and already you know this of her… well this calls for something particular."
Ron went instantly red as his eyes widened while he stuttered, "Did… did… did I say… that out loud?"
Binkins gave Ron an encouraging smile s she replied, "Believe me, I couldn't stay in businesses if I let what was said in these walls out… no its policy that anything said here stays here… clearly you both can see things can get very personal."
She finished writing her note then twirled her wand as she look with great enthusiasm at Harry. One of the two girls from before took a few steps closer but a quick shaking of a Binkins head sent her back.
"Oh my turn… well she's smart… not a spell or anything hasn't been able to do yet," began Harry but he wasn't finding things to comfortable yet, "She's always worried about everything I do… I kind of get in trouble a lot… knows the rules really well… she's a Gryffindor prefect at Hogwarts."
Harry thought this would come as easy as it had done for Ron especially as he smelled a fragrance reach his nose and his mind seemed to relax a little but not by much.
Harry tried to think of something when a whisper reached his ears.
"He is strong… it doesn't have any effect on him," whispered Binkins in surprise to her-self.
"What doesn't," snapped Harry, looking up, even Ron was confused?
It may have been a first time in a long time for Binkins, but her face redden now with surprise, responding with, "Well I use a fragrance that… relaxes someone whose nervous like your-selves… makes it easier for you to say things… kind of like Veritaserum... a truth potion… but mine's a perfume so it effects only last a few minutes."
One of the two girls stepped forward again, "Can I play with him now?"
"Why does she keeping saying that," inquired Harry annoyed, the situation beginning to bother him?
"It's not how it sounds," answered Binkins humorously, "Lu and Nu are two… sisters… I found one day while traveling… the ministry isn't officially aware of them… they're able to probe minds... I brought them here and sort of raised them, seeing as I have no children and they were alone… but they've come to enjoy being able to probe the minds of my customers and change their form … quite useful when picking out certain items… anyways it just fun for them… your brother Bill is popular with them… yes I can recognize the red hair and similar tastes… he's pretty good at hiding the female relation he has currently … so Lu and Nu enjoy spending a lot time trying to find out."
"But neither them nor your perfume works on me," said Harry, a slight disappointment to his voice.
"No," replied Binkins, "You must have a strong will… very strong… so we'll just use the old fashion way."
Harry raised an eyebrow to her but Binkins just smiled before adding, "Its simple… just picture her and say whatever comes to mind."
Harry closed his eyes and tried to think of Hermione. Surprisingly enough the image of her walking from Arithmacy class came to mind.
"She's beautiful… it took me so long to realize it… I can't stop looking at her now, "began Harry feeling him-self relax naturally, "Every part of her is fascinating… its something to see her reading by the fire… even moonlight gleams off her… and her eyes are always full of concern and wonder… I like her touch the most… I don't know how to describe it… its so comforting… even when I feel out of control… and I have been lately… feeling her hand on my face just seems to stop everything."
The pop came again and Harry found he had his own hand on his face, remembering her touch and suddenly Harry found him-self wanting Hermione back as well as very disturbed at how he had treated her earlier.
When he looked up, Binkins was writing on her parchment again with a smile.
"Alright," announced Binkins, "You too sit tight and I'll be right back."
They didn't have to wait long as Binkins stepped into a back room and came back with three plain unmarked boxes.
"Do me a favor," said Binkins approaching the counter and putting one of the boxes in a sack, "Give this to Bill, its his order placed a while ago… tell him to stop by I'd love to know about this girl… something about you Weasley boys and unique girls is very interesting… and these are for you two."
She opened the other two boxes to show what was in them. Ron was surprised as Harry was when they looked into them.
"Four sickles a piece," stated Binkins, "Bill's is already paid for."
They paid the woman and she bagged them. As they were about to walk away, Harry looked at two girls keeping themselves in the dark.
"How about next time," asked Harry?
"Do make it sometime soon, "said the one Harry was sure to be Lu.
"Your fancies we'll help swoon," added the other that had to be Nu.
With that Harry and Ron stepped back into the street, into the world they better understood than that shop.
"I don't think we should talk much about that," said Ron humorously.
Harry nodded and added, "No but it should be more interesting next time do you think?"
Ron smirked rather than answered but he did comment about making Bill keenly aware that Ron knew his secret with girls.
In another area of Diagon Alley, Ginny, Rela and Hermione were walking away from a shop having just been in.
"Do you really think Ron will like this," asked Rela looking into her bag, questioningly?
"Well I would think you'd know my brother better than me considering you two," answered Ginny, watching Rela redden, "But yes… I know very well he'll like it."
"What did you get Hermione," asked Ginny?
Rather than say Hermione opened her bag and showed its contents.
"Wow," said Ginny, "I wouldn't have thought of that. You and Harry must be getting really close now."
Hermione thought a second and decided there was something she had better clear up.
"Ginny," started Hermione, receiving a hum of recognition from Ginny who was glancing into a shop window, "Don't you have… well have feelings for Harry?"
Ginny stopped and turned to look at Hermione, reddening slightly as she thought to her-self for a moment.
"Yes and no," answered Ginny, explaining further with, "I like him… I don't see how any girl wouldn't… but I had a fancy for Harry Potter the Boy Who Lived… not Harry."
Hermione stared at Ginny with raised eyebrows, not understanding her answer.
"Look," continued Ginny, "Being Muggle born your primary schooling was different… Muggles didn't know what happen… but I know you've read the history books… but there's a difference to what was printed and what was said."
Hermione was about to inquire when Rela spoke up.
"She's right," added Rela, "Even in Germany, my teachers all made Harry out to be some kind of savior… maybe even something of comparison to Merlin."
"After a while you get to think that Harry can part oceans and apparate to the moon or something, "also added Ginny, "That's why the first years are always so amazed to meet him… why I was amazed to have him at the house the first time… it was hard to believe at first that Ron even shared a dorm with him… of course these last few years events have only added to it… stopping a wizard from getting the great Sorcerer's stone… taking down a troll… killing a Muggle attacking basilisk single handily… not to mention reveal that Lockhart was a fake… and all that was the first two years."
"Of course people are just quick to think Harry's doing it all," interject Rela quickly, "They don't want to recognize that you or Ron have been involved all along… but that's like the history of Godric Gryffindor… always what he did… no mention of the people who helped him… they just see you as his friends."
"Well we should be meeting up with the boys soon," said Hermione changing the subject.
She didn't want to talk about it anymore and ruin the festive day but her mind continued to dwell, remembering how people acted around Harry so much. It was true what they thought of him as different than who he really was. He didn't know how to make them understand it which must be part of why he despises the gifts that were sent and may still be coming. Then remembered she still had the deposit notes from Gringotts bank and that she was going to have to tell Harry sooner or later. As soon as she thought that, a horrible thought came to mine.
- Oh no, - thought Hermione suddenly, glancing into a shop window, - We have to find Harry and Ron soon.-
"Hermione" spoke up Ginny, her cheeks flushing slightly, "When Harry goes to get those socks he mentioned for Dobby… do you think there'll be any shops around that sell skirts?"
"Why not go to Madam Malkin's," replied Hermione?
"Well," answered Ginny, flushing a bit more, "I want to get a Muggle skirt… they're shorter than what witches normally where."
Hermione stared at her a second, puzzled as to what Ginny would want with Muggle clothes, especially a short skirt. She wondered until Ginny's nervous look set into Hermione mind what Ginny was up to.
"Don't tell your mum," agreed Hermione, "But I'm sure there will be a place nearby."
Ginny smiled, more deviously than happily and Rela stared at the two of them, shocked at the masterminding that was occurring.
After that Hermione tried to hurry them along as middle afternoon was setting and she wanted to find Harry before he found out in a bad why he had deposit notes.
The two boys had stopped to get apples covered in hot caramel on sticks as they continued on. They started to pass the Quidditch shop when a look from Ron received a nod from Harry. Both boys were unable to speak at that moment as caramel kept their mouths stuck. A worker in the shop asked them to finish their apples first. So just outside the door they gobbled down as much as their mouths would hold before tossing the cores and stick into a bin nearby.
Their mouths still sticking from all the caramel they silently agreed to split up. Harry wandered the fair size shop amongst many playful children rushing about and excited fans gathering around a table of collectibles from different teams. Harry had barely noticed a few signed photos with very heavy prices on the table when someone called out to him.
"Hey there," spoke a tall man, walking towards Harry, dressed mostly in orange robes, "You're Harry Potter aren't you… the Seeker for Hogwarts Gryffindor team right?"
A quick look as he approached, Harry recognized the man but not sure how. Rather than answer he just nodded in response.
"Oh sorry there," he added cheerily, "Should introduce my-self… I'm Thomas… Thomas McBannon… I'm a chaser for the Chudley Cannons… not as popular as Roy though… he's the Keeper."
Now the recognition came into play as Harry remembered his picture on one of the many posters in Ron's room.
"I'd hate to sound like such a prat," continued Thomas, "But I'd love to get an autograph or a picture from you… what with you being the youngest Quidditch player in a century and all… and I understand you barely touched a broom before you were on the team… mind you some of us thought it was just the fame but you proved otherwise."
Harry just stared at him and the sudden thought of signing autograph cards or books like Lockhart didn't give him any exuberance
"Well," said Harry warily, "I never knew much about Quidditch before a few years ago… and I live with Muggles… so I don't get to do much with the sport besides school… and… well… I'm not too sure about signing pictures and stuff."
Expecting great disappointment, Thomas surprised Harry with a smile and replied, "That's okay… good idea not to let you-self get a big head… you should see what its done to Roy… so damn annoying all the time… well it was a treat just meeting you."
As the Quidditch player left, the front door opened allowing a brisk breeze to blow in and pass Harry. A sudden thought came to mind as Harry looked out the corner of his eye.
Suddenly wondering if it was right, another thought came to mind.
They're not being forced into it…
Harry dwelled on the thought for a moment more before calling out, "Wait! I changed my mind!"
Thomas turned around and took a few steps back towards Harry, a curious but hopeful expression on his face.
"I don't like the whole celebrity thing," bargained Harry, "But how about a trade?"
A short while later, Harry and Ron stepped from the Quidditch shop. Ron had purchased an item he would not tell of but Harry in turn stayed quiet about his meeting with Thomas McBannon at least for while.
As they stepped into the street, the door to the shop opened again and Thomas, "Oy Harry! I'll come to one of your games sometime, I promise!"
Ron stared at the man before turning to Harry, "That… that was Thomas McBannon, the lead Chaser for the Chudley Cannons. Bloody hell everything happens to you Harry."
"Yeah its grand," replied Harry paused in stride for a moment before adding," Everything happens to me alright."
Ron wasn't able to respond as a few minutes later they heard their names called out. Ron and Harry turned to see the girls they had arrived with coming up the street. Hermione looked slightly worried then became relieved when see saw Harry, looking a bit cold from the walking in Diagon Alley but quite calm as well.
"What have you two been eating," snapped Ginny playfully, sniffing, looking at Ron, "It smells sweet?"
"We've been had mate," said Ron.
"Yep," agreed Harry, "Guess we should tell them we spoiled our appetites."
"You two had those caramel apples," snapped Ginny, not as playful but with no insult, "You know I love those… how could eat them and not wait for us?"
"We were hungry," replied Ron with a smile to Harry?
Ginny crossed her arms commenting something about boys being selfish.
"It's just down the way," said Harry, "We could get some more."
Ginny shook her head, replying, "Better not in my case… besides I have something else I'd rather get."
Ron looked at his sister and asked, "What?"
She just smiled and replied, "It's personal so never you mind."
Ron just looked at Harry and shrugged.
They began to walk away while Rela looked ready to laugh but was trying to stop it. Ron tried to find out what was so funny and Ginny said nothing. Harry didn't think it was something he need know until Hermione leaned to and whispered into his ear. At once Harry began snickering and Hermione found her-self soothed at that. Now Ron was getting flustered to know the joke but no one would tell him. Harry had decided he wasn't going to be the one to tell him that Ginny was making a fuss over nothing because the girls had already gotten caramel apples earlier.
Before going out to the street of the Muggle world, Hermione insisted that they get a table at the Leaky Caldron and warm up a bit before continuing. Tom brought them a jug of hot chocolate and a tray of mugs, compliments from the establishment. After a few minutes, Harry excused him-self and Hermione seized her chance to ask Ron a question.
"So what did you two run into that was strange," asked Hermione, trying to sound casual and avoid any argument?
To her surprise, Ron suddenly tensed up with a shocked look to his face.
He gave a quick glance to Rela before asking in return, "Did Harry tell you something about us finding something strange?"
"No," said Hermione and then she explained, pulling the deposit notes from her pocket, "I just wondered if Harry got mad about seeing stuff being sold with his name on it in some way."
"As far as I know Harry never came across anything," answered Ron, "But that explains what I saw in the Quidditch shop."
"What was it," pressed Hermione?
"You know those armlets we where," answered Ron, receiving a nod from Hermione, "Well they had a whole stack of them and there was a sign that said they were the kind worn by Harry Potter in Quidditch… I saw some kids see them and snatch a couple… I never heard of Harry endorsing anything, so I suspect it some stupid thing they were doing to sell them."
"Well you're half right," said Hermione, showing everyone the bank notes and taking a quick minute to explain about them and how she knew about how he was getting them.
"So Dobby just destroys all the mail he gets," laughed Ron idly, "At least that explains the way Gringotts was acting… Harry bringing in business, I thought that was funny considering he hadn't been there in over a year."
"Yeah I saw these glass spheres in a shop window and I remembered he didn't know about it all yet," added Hermione, "They're the size of Remembralls but they glow blue when you hold them… they're a replica of the Colossus Orb from the museum."
"Why did you look so tense when Hermione asked you about all that," asked Ginny suspiciously?
Ron just looked at her but said nothing.
"Where did you go or rather where did you take Harry," asked Ginny even more suspicious?
"As you said… never you mind," replied Ron curtly before he suddenly asked, "Harry's sure taking his time?"
Ron stood up suddenly and Hermione began looking around frantically. A minute later, Harry emerged from a corridor in the back.
As he approached the table, Ron, without thinking, interrogatingly asked, "Where did you go?"
Harry stood there and replied quietly, "The loo… then I ran into Lavender."
At that Ron's ears redden but Hermione asked quietly, "Lavender?"
There was as light tremble to the room but Tom yelled something about a Muggle truck.
"Yeah she was going off about something to do with tarot cards… I wasn't really listening," answered Harry shrugging, "Then she wanted to know who I was here with… so I said all of you and she didn't seem too happy about that… so off to the outside then for one more stop?"
Ron couldn't help but notice a smile on Hermione's face as they all stood up, thanking Tom for the hot chocolate and they were off to the street of muggle shops.
It was new experience for Rela as she saw the cars and street lights. She and Ron were into conversation about the many items, Hermione corrected a few terminologies for them. Ginny was looking really excited, Harry looked around. They had walked down the streets for a few minutes when Harry spotted a place. The windows displayed different kinds of muggle clothes, both male and female. Ginny whispered something to Hermione and she received a nod, making Ginny even more excited.
They walked in and Harry suddenly wondered how it would look for a group of kids their age come in with cloaks instead of coats and not an adult around, then he realized he didn't care. He headed for a spot where a sign said socks and Ginny said something to Ron about staying with Harry while she dragged Rela with her and followed Hermione in another direction.
After a few minutes, along with questions from Ron about things like tuxedos and wallets, they went to a counter with an assortment of socks. The sales clerk gave them a funny look as the socks were an assortment of colors and sizes.
Harry interpreted the clerk's question and answered with, "I have a friend with an unusual liking for socks."
The clerk just raised her eye brows in understanding, asking "Cash or account?"
"Cash," replied Harry.
"That will be sixteen pounds even," said the clerk.
Harry counted out sixteen pounds and took the receipt and bag from the clerk.
"Maybe we should tell her it's for a little green creature," whispered Ron, snickering?
"We'd be committed," laughed Harry.
They had taken a few more steps towards the door when a clearing of a throat caught their attention. They stopped to see Hermione standing with Ginny, holding a bag while very satisfied, and Rela looking at them.
"Planning to leave without us," asked Hermione, her tone odd?
Harry and Ron just shrugged their shoulders. Hermione looked at the two at shook her head muttering something to her-self as they all left. Ron tried to ask Ginny what she had but Ginny wasn't even recognizing his question and put the item into her bag.
They were nearly back at the Leaky Cauldron when Ron stopped, "Let's go in here for a second."
They went into a small store. It didn't seem to be anything special but a thrift store baring a multitude of things from foods to small appliances. Harry suddenly couldn't shake the feeling of familiarity at the moment. Rela and Ginny became curious about the magazines on a book shelf, so Hermione stayed with them and Ron dragged Harry to a back area where some appliances lay.
He was asking Harry about a blender's purpose when a loud slap could be heard along with a thud and some nasty cursing. Ron and Harry turned quick and sprinted back to the front of the store to be welcomed to the most unexpected of sites. A very heavy set boy was starting to get off the floor, holding his face while very angry. Rela had her hand held by the other, apparently having just slapped the boy.
"I don't date outside my own species and I am most certainly not that kind of girl," said Rela, quite nastily, almost to the point of shouting, "You had better get your manners checked, you bloated oaf."
As Ron and Harry got closer, they looked on in surprised.
"Dudley," said Harry?
Dudley, Harry's spoiled cousin, turned to stare in surprise at Harry.
"What are you doing here," replied Dudley quite nastily, "Aren't you suppose to be at that freak place or did you finally get kicked out?"
Hearing the boy's name, Ginny and Hermione became instantly disgusted considering this was the first time that had met Dudley.
"Hate to break it to you dolt," snapped Ginny, "But we all are from that freak school, including the girl you just passed at."
"I should have known there was something wrong with you," sneered Dudley at Rela.
"Have you considered that there's five freaks here," growled Ron, his knuckles cracking as his hands became fists, "And only one fat blighter… that's you by the way."
Dudley's eyes widen as he realized Ron's words and stumbled out, "You can't… you can't do that stuff… not unless you're at that school… so I'm… I'm not afraid."
"You'd be surprise what we can get away with, "replied Ginny withdrawing her wand anyways and pointed it at Dudley, adding, "When there are no witnesses."
Dudley needed a nappy as he looked ready to wet him-self and as much as Harry was enjoying this, he knew Ginny wasn't going to do anything and if so, it would just be trouble they didn't need.
"Okay that's enough," said Harry, walking towards Dudley, surprising everyone, "Stop it Ginny. It'll just be trouble no matter what."
The jingle of a bell rung as the door to the store opened but Harry continued on to Dudley, pulling a handkerchief from his pocket, handing it to Dudley.
"Here," said Harry, "Your nose is beginning to bleed and Aunt Petunia will have a conniption if you get blood on your shirt."
Dudley began to reach for the handkerchief when a rude voice interrupted bellowing, "What the devil is this?"
Dudley turned and everyone looked at large stocky man with a terrible mustache stood there. He instantly rounded on Harry.
"What the bloodied hell do you think you're doing here in place for normal people," shouted Vernon?
"Well," started Hermione but Vernon cut her off when he saw his son's face.
"You," he snarled, "How dare you… we take you in and this is what you do?"
Before anything else was said, he shoved Harry hard. Harry was unprepared for the sudden move and fell backward, stumbling. Ron moved to grab Harry but he missed as he lost his footing completely. Hermione watched, unable to do anything, as the scene seemed to play out slowly. Harry lost his footing, falling backward then slamming the back of his head into the glass door of a freezer, cracking the glass. Harry went limp and silent, Hermione almost screamed, Rela moved quick and Ginny stood shocked. Ron however reacted very differently.
A crack sounded and Vernon was suddenly on one knee. Ron had him in his grips and the temperature of the room shot up instantly. Hermione moved to Harry, having to grab her skirt quickly as she passed a vent as scalding hot air was blasting out.
"You had better hope he's okay," shouted Ron, his words darker than they had ever heard him speak, "Or I guarantee you'll know what its like to be a pig on spit!"
The clerk came to their aid with a first aid kit, beginning to look Harry over.
The ice in the freezer melted in seconds after that, filling the bottom with a pool of water. The lights flicker as some bulbs fell from their sockets, the glass cracking. The room kept getting hotter; Hermione could feel her clothes soaking with sweat very quickly. The air in the room became hard to breathe. Vernon was trying to pull at Ron's arms but the red haired boy's strange strength held strong, not even budging from the man's pulls. Ginny watched as Vernon's cufflinks fell from his sleeves to the floor as melted globs of cheap metal impersonating gold. His face was reddening, burning from being exposed to something hot.
Dudley stood, unmoved from his spot and actually did wet him-self.
"Ron," shouted Rela suddenly terrified, "He's alright… just knocked out."
As comforting as that should have been; rather Ron seemed disappointed but he didn't let go of Vernon.
"If you ever… ever touch him… even breathe on him again," snarled Ron, his voice a tone that didn't sound human, Hermione glanced quickly to see Ron's eyes brightly glowing orange, "I will personally rip you apart… piece by damn piece… and feed you, barbecued, to a three headed beast dog."
"Ron you need to stop," called out Rela.
"Or better yet," growled Ron, his glowing eyes glaring, "Why wait until then… maybe I should just get rid of you now."
"Don't even consider it," shouted Rela forcefully, Hermione just noticed brightness to her eyes, "Do that and you're worse than him. Do you want Harry to wake up and find out his best friend killed a defenseless Muggle?""
Ron was quiet, possibly contemplating but eventually he let go of Vernon and turned slowly away. He started to walk back to them but stopped to give Dudley a glare and a piece of advice.
"Girls aren't toys for a spoil bastard like you," growled Ron, "Now get that ass and your-self out of here."
The door open and Dursleys left as another group came in. A woman and her son, who instantly recognized the group, came in.
"Ron, Hermione, Ginny what's going on," said a boy coming closer to them, "Dad what happened? Mum its Harry!"
Hermione looked straight in the face of Seamus Finnegan, one the boys in Harry's dorm.
The man, who had been helping them, now identified to be Seamus's father looked to his wife and replied with, "Vernon and his boy were here… and apparently they're this boy's family."
Seamus looked and shockingly asked, "Those people are Harry's family."
"No," snapped Ron, dangerously, "There just his relatives and that's it."
"Harry Potter," questioned the woman coming closer, withdrawing her wand?
The man just shook his head and the woman looked suddenly reviled by some thought.
"Is he okay," she asked?
"Just a mild concussion if anything," replied her husband, "He's coming to but he'll be a bit groggy. He should see a doctor."
"Those people have brought him here before," said Seamus's mother, "I thought I recognized him before. Well it would seem their manners haven't gotten any better."
"It wasn't Harry's fault," spoke Hermione, "All he did was offer his cousin a handkerchief for his nose and his uncle went off on him."
Seamus's mother held up her hand, stopping Hermione, "Believe me I don't need an explanation considering them. Now you lot take Harry and get going. It won't be much longer before the ministry shows and I'll get this all cleared up."
Ron picked up Harry who was beginning to wake up but slowly. Hermione for the first time took a good look around. If it wasn't melted, charred in some way or shattered then it was on fire. Some t-shirts baring a soft drink logo were one of the many items lying on the floor burning with open flame.
- How did Ron do that, - thought Hermione to her-self?
A second later Ron shoved a stone into Hermione's hand and glared at her. It wasn't much for Hermione to guess what Ron was thinking. So while Ron steady Harry. She put his finger on the stone and let everyone gather around before activating it.
A quick pulling sensation along with a moment of everything being black and they were back in the living room. Ron sat Harry on the couch as he was waking more and more, Ginny ran off to find her mother and Ron just stood by seething. Rela looked on the verge of tears and Hermione calmed her-self as Harry became more and more alert. Daken came down the stairs a minute later along with Ginny as she apparently couldn't find her mother.
Daken leaned down to Harry and pushed up his eye lids to peer into his eyes. Harry pushed his hand away and Daken just smiled.
"He'll be fine," spoke up Daken, "Not even a concussion… just got knocked out."
"But Seamus's dad said," started Ginny before Daken gave her a knowing look.
"Didn't we go over this last night?" questioned Daken, "Side effects… looks like he's got endurance as one of them… apparently both against magic and physical strikes… give him a few more minutes and all he'll have his a headache."
Unable to hold back any more, Rela covered her face, bursting into tears and amazingly Ron's temper vanished.
"This is entirely my fault," sobbed Rela, "I wasn't paying attention… I got too comfortable and when that boy started to speak to me… I heard his intentions and… and I… I just reacted."
"Right thing when it comes to that load of dung," added Ginny viciously.
Rela wasn't comforted but sobbed out, "You were right Ron… I should've just told everyone I'm a Whasperor… and get it over with… instead of trying to pretend I was something else."
"A Whasperor," commented Hermione, "I thought you were a clever Veela but Whasperor makes more sense now… that must be helpful."
Rela stopped crying and looked at Hermione completely puzzled.
"What does it matter?" added Hermione, "You're half witch and half Whasperor right? I knew when I saw you're eyes but again, I originally thought Veela. So what's the problem?"
"Whasperors aren't exactly welcomed that easily because of their abilities," quietly answered Ron, "It's why she transferred here from Germany… the school there didn't quite want to let her back for the next year."
Rela looked ready to start crying again but she didn't get the chance.
"So what," said an unexpected voice, "It not like she's a basilisk or something?"
Harry had become even more alert now, shaking his head and keeping his eyes open. Looking mostly at Rela, blinking constantly and holding a hand to his head.
"Lets see, "said Harry, somewhat annoyed but for good reason, his voice rising as he spoke, "We're friends with two half giants, a centaur, a half Veela, a were wolf, an escaped Azkaban prisoner, a house elf and apparently a three headed dog… and we've dealt with murders, snakes, giant spiders, dangerous chess pieces, crazed Bludgers and dragons… of course lets not forget everyone in this room… is a mix of vampires, elementals and now a Whasperor… so believe me unless you shed your skin and become some giant five headed, fire breathing thing… then whatever a Whasperor is no big deal… now if that's cleared will someone tell me what the hell happened!"
Ginny and Hermione went into a quick explanation of what had happened. The way the room had acted and Ron's terrifying actions against the Dursleys'
Rather than be upset Harry stared blankly then began laughing hysterically, surprising everyone even Daken a bit. However Rela still had an issue with it.
"Your injury was still all my fault… I slapped your cousin," quietly stated Rela, "I'm sorry."
"Yeah that was great," laughed Harry, "I wish I could have seen you actually do it… he's not use to being told no."
"Well your uncle might not have," started Rela but Harry cut in.
"It doesn't matter… he would've just had to come up with another reason to be that way," interrupted Harry, his humored tone steadying to a tone that was too calm, "I think I would have given almost anything to see Dudley wet him-self… I just wish I had the chance to tell Vernon off first… but I'm not too worried, his time will come and I'll have my say."
Hermione looked at Ron but no one said anything while Daken just stared at the boy. Harry stood up suddenly, rotating his head, hearing his neck crack and like Daken had said, he was right back to normal.
"I suppose that vampire thing isn't too bad," said Harry chuckling.
Rela was wiping her face, she look so much happier than ever and Ron just took a deep relieving breath. Hermione decided she would tell Harry about what happened later but she just stood by watching Harry become more active. Ginny had nabbed all their bags before they had left and she began handing it all back out. Just as she gave the boys their things, it was agreed that they had best put it all away before doing anything else. Ron and Harry turned but stopped when Daken stood in front of them.
"Ladies first," he said and the girls dashed up the stairs.
But when they were out of site, Daken peered at the two boys, his nose twitching as he seemed to pick up a scent. Then he looked t the bags they held with a strange smile.
"Tell me," said Daken pausing a moment, "What did you two think of Lu and Nu?"
The boys just stared at him, saying nothing but their expressions told all.
"Lu and Nu have very particular scents… plus Binkins perfume is noticeable… I bet even Ginny can smell it," explained Daken, "Just remember not to advertise it… can't let the ladies realize just how clueless we boys are. But I would still like to know how you came to know of it?"
"You know how poplar Bill is… I'd go with him there but he'd leave me outside and wouldn't tell me anything when I asked … I figured out that every time there was a girl he had an interest in… he's go to that place and get a gift for them," answered Ron, "Once I tried to get in but I found out I had to be fifteen… so I've waited until now… good timing I guess"
"I'll guess that Lu and Nu didn't get a chance to play as they like but I suggest that next time you go there," suggested Daken, "Let the sisters have a go… you'll find that if Binkins' children are happy… you get better results from her personally."
Harry and Ron just nodded and headed for the stairs.
"Oh by the way," called out Daken, "An owl post came for you Harry, I put it on your dresser."
They rushed up the stairs; Ron continued on saying he'd be back in a minute while Harry went into his own room. Setting the items on the bed, Harry found the post Daken spoke of. Opening he read it with curiosity and left the room, back down the stairs.
"What is Harry," asked Hermione coming out of Ginny's room as he passed, seeing the letter in Harry's hand.
"I need to go to the village… the Dungeon actually," answered Harry, "Neville's there, I got an owl post from him saying he wants to tell me something important, says he's going to wait there until evening."
"What does Neville want to tell you," came Ron's from behind, descending the stairs?
Harry shook his head, "He just says it's important."
"We'll all go then," stated Ron simply, "I'm sure Neville wouldn't mind a few more friends… probably could use them right about now."
Harry nodded and they continued down the stairs. At the base, near the front door, Ron handed Hermione and Harry their cloaks as Ginny stepped out from the kitchen with Rela.
"Where are you all going," asked Ginny suddenly?
Rela gave Ron a funny but slightly hurt look and his ears went red, answering, "Sorry… force of habit… Harry got a post from Neville… he's at the Dungeon… wants to see Harry… so we were going to go."
Ron then smiled at Rela and added, "Want to come?"
Strangely Rela perked up, smiling happily and nodded but as Ron looked to Ginny, she had a different answer.
"I'll stay here," answered Ginny with an odd happy smile, "And wait for mum."
Meanwhile Rela rushed forward as Ron presented her cloak and helping to slide it on. Ron opened the door and walked with Rela outside with Hermione following, leaving Harry to close the door. Outside, Hermione waited at the base of the front steps as Harry had chosen to reread the letter before had stepped out.
- I didn't know Neville lived nearby, - thought Harry, - Must have used a Port key or something. -
"Ready to go," asked Hermione?
Harry looked up and pocketed the letter before, answering with a nod. Harry stepped out onto the front steps, pulling the door closed behind him. He had almost closed it when Hermione stopped him.
"Wait Harry," said Hermione walking back up a few steps.
Still holding the handle, the door a few inches from the frame, Harry paused at Hermione's request as Ron and Rela waited a short distance away.
"Did you forget something," inquired Harry curiously?
Hermione shook her head and answered, stuttering with, "No… I… I want… I want you… to make me a promise."
Harry stared at her in growing puzzlement.
"I want you to promise me… to tell us," she continued, taking another step up, " Not right away… maybe when we get back to school… but soon."
"Tell you what," asked Harry, his tone suspicious?
Hermione bit her lip a second, a quick look of worry came before she answered with hesitation, "We know the basics… you were taken from the maze… to a cemetery… then Voldemort came back… and you were able to escape."
Hermione's worried expression received validation as Harry eyes glared.
"We want to help," added Hermione quickly, "I want to help… but we can't… unless you let us… we need you to open up to us… tell us everything… those secrets are only going to hurt us… hurt you… believe me I know… I thought I could keep everything with Krum a secret and it would be okay… but you saw what it did to me… and this is doing the same to you… you were there for me when I needed you… even Ron… so lets us be there for you now… let me be there… please don't keep things away from us anymore."
Suddenly Harry remembered what Dumbledore had said upon leaving Hogwarts for the Burrow.
Don't keep things away from them anymore.
Hermione's expression of worry remained if not grew as she watched Harry's eyes do a dance of thought.
"Harry it's just that," started Hermione again but Harry stopped her.
"Alright," said Harry suddenly with his gaze averted, "I promise to tell you, Ron and whoever else. Can we just please go?"
"I'm sorry… for rushing you like that," said Hermione quietly preparing to take a step back," But I thought if I surprised you… it wouldn't bother you so quick."
"No… you deserve to know I guess… you and Ron have been through the thick of it with me," replied Harry quietly, finally shutting the door behind him.
Harry gazed at the girl in front of him, suddenly and strangely hurt to see her chocolate brown eyes looking at him in worry and maybe even a touch of fear as her hair floated to the side from the winter breezes. A look he didn't want to see that any more and made it hard to look at her. Thankfully after agreeing to her request, look changed and he found him-self now looking into a beautiful face just inches away, eyes as caring as always if not even more so in some way now. He stepped forward suddenly so that only the distance of breathe separated them, surprising Hermione a little.
"I'm sorry," announced Harry calmly, "I never should have yelled at you… you didn't know… I guess I figured if I didn't say anything… I didn't have to remember any of it… but the Port key just kind of shot it all back… and I took it out on you… all of you."
Saying nothing, she just smiled at him in a way Harry wasn't sure how to comprehend and felt something begin to slowly grip his free hand. Harry looked down to see Hermione's fingers entwining with his own. She stepped back down the step, gently pulling Harry with her but never said anything about his apology.
"Let's just go see Neville," said Hermione simply.
With that said, she led Harry away from the house, through the yard, past the front gate and down the graveled road to the village with Ron and Rela leading the way while not letting go or loosening her grip at any time.
As they left, Daken stood at the window, unnoticed, still watching the Hogwarts students until they were out of site before turning and vanishing into the house interior.
Some time and conversation later, they found them-selves outside the pub known as the Dungeon. Even though he had already been there, Harry still didn't like the name of the place but thankful the people inside weren't the kind expected in a dungeon.
Ron held the door open for them all and they entered into a place full of cheer and festive activity, both of which produce a very high volume of sound. Harry had to strain his ears and practically read Ron's lips when his friend had spotted Neville in the corner at an empty table to him-self. Harry suddenly found that strange as they wormed their way to him, that Neville would be alone like that but figured it must be because the importance of whatever Neville wanted to say.
They had just reached the table and Neville smiled at Harry but gave the rest an unfriendly look. He still and said something but the high volume drowned out his voice. Guessing his words, they took a seat anyways. At first Neville only looked at Harry and gave no attention to the rest. Unfortunately any time any one tried to talk, it was just as pointless as before. Harry was just thinking how to illustrate for everyone to go outside when Anabell came by and set a bowl down in the middle of the table.
It was full of small spongy spheres and they all looked to Anabell in confusion but she just picked up two of them from the bowl and placed them into the inner area of her ears, motioning for them to do the same. Harry wonder if this was some kind of game until after putting the spongy things in his ears, the roaring crowd died down instantly to very low level.
"There now," said Ana with her heavy Irish accent, "Bet that be a wee better there."
Harry blinked a second as did his friends at the sudden drop in the level of sound heard. Everything sounded as if it were a normal calm day though looking; one could easily see that things were still quite wild.
Ana inquired abut getting anything for them and Hermione was quick to asked for a jug hot chocolate for them to share. Their order taken, she turned and vanished into the crowd. With Ana gone, Ron was quick to get things going.
"Alright Neville," started Ron, "What's up? Why did you want to see us suddenly?"
Neville gave Ron a blank wide eyed look and with surprising nastiness, said, "Actually… I asked for Harry."
Ron didn't take to kindly to Neville's response but he held his temper.
"Why only me," asked Harry?
Neville looked back to Harry, giving him a wide eyed stare and answered plainly, "Because it's none of their business."
Harry glared his eyes at Neville. His thought was simple and that this wasn't right. Neville was nervous and scared the last time he tried to tell him anything and now Neville just seemed… calm… too calm.
"Hang on," snapped Ron, "We, not just Harry, saved your rear from those Aurors and we've helped you before that. So where do you get the bloodied idea that's it's not our business?"
Neville just turned his calm look back to Ron and stated bluntly, with the same nastiness again, "Sod off."
Ron expression went dark and looked ready to move on Neville but Harry saw from his eye that Hermione agreed this was wrong as she stared at Neville.
Neville's demeanor hadn't changed even while Ron looked positively seething to the point of exploding. Harry wanted to say something but before he could Rela whispered something to Ron. In a near instant, Ron's attitude changed as he looked at Neville with an examining look. Neville started to turn back to Harry when Ron presented his wand suddenly and a small bright spark puffed. Before Harry could ask what Ron was doing, his friend had seized Neville's collar and pulled him from his chair.
"Let me go," snapped Neville, "What's the matter? Don't like being left out?"
Ron pulled Neville closer, looking right at his face before finally saying, "He's not blinking."
"What," gasped Hermione?
"Not blinking," repeated Ron and answered Harry's puzzled expression with, "Remember Cho and Justin? Remember how they're eyes were? They didn't blink Harry. Just like Krum didn't and just like Neville isn't now. Harry, he's under someone else's control just like them."
"Someone wanted us to be here," whispered Hermione understanding, "But it looks like they only wanted Harry to be here."
Rela looked really terrified at the moment and Harry's face blanched as he whispered out, "It's another trap."
"Let's go," stated Ron and everyone stood up but Neville was resistant.
He wrenched him-self from Ron's grip and with surprising speed, took off into the crowd. Harry stood up, turned and immediately headed for the door.
"What are you doing?" shouted Hermione, "Stay here."
"You stay here … I have to go," answered Harry quickly but with an odd tone, "There are innocent people here."
Hermione made to shout for him again but Ron just grabbed the table and without effort, toppled it over, forcing people in the area to move away, clearing more of a path.
"Have ye gone daft," snapped Ana suddenly appearing with their order of hot chocolate, "We're busy and I only got two hands."
"Get an owl to the ministry," ordered Ron, shouting, "Tell them Harry Potter needs Aurors here now!"
Before Ana could respond, Harry felt someone grip his shoulder hard.
"Harry Potter?" said someone behind him, "Praise Merlin… I'd hope we'd find you before we were too late."
"Erickson," asked Ron as he and the girls closed the gap between them and Harry?
"The one and the same," said the wizard named Erickson, "We found a note at Hogwarts from Malleck stating he was going to get you here today."
"Malleck," inquired Harry?
"Yes," answered Erickson, "Now we need to meet up with the others, I'll send a signal when we get outside and we'll meet them at the rendezvous point."
Ron held up his wand as Hermione and Rela reached for theirs.
"Don't," said Erickson quickly," They're looking for Harry and if we all go waving wands around we may as well as have a banner."
Ron didn't look too pleased but they went with him anyways. They stepped outside and left Ana watching after them until the door closed. Erickson held up his wand and purple colored sparks shot up into the air. Erickson then put him-self in front of Harry and told him to stay behind at all times. At that they began walking briskly until after a good few minutes, they stopped in front of an old building where two other wizards were talking merrily away.
When they approached they gave Erickson a casual look and one asked, "Damn good holiday this season eh Erickson?"
"Only if you've been good," laughed Erickson.
"Mathews and his brother are circling around," said the other one, "Do you have everything your wife wants?"
Erickson stepped to the side and motioned for Harry to step forward.
"She just wants a get together with her family and friends," replied Erickson, "But I did snag her a little something from Binkins."
"Well now," said the man who spoken to them first, "Why don't we get our task finished and when all the guests arrive, we'll get things straightened out."
Ron felt Rela grip his arm and he looked to her to see a frightened face.
"Don't worry, "said Ron, "Erickson's an Auror I met at the ministry."
Then other man opened the door and Erickson pushed Harry in, adding, "We'll get everything all squared up in a second."
"But Ron," whispered Rela trying to convey something, "I think he's lying."
"What do you mean, "whispered Ron inquiring.
"His voice doesn't sound right," answered Rela, "I think they have other intentions."
Erickson then asked, "Every have their wands… good… lets get them out now."
Ron and Hermione withdrew their wands but Rela hesitated.
"Like what," said Ron, presenting his wand?
"I can't understand it," said Rela, "What they're saying is true but the intentions behind the words are lies."
"Perfect," said Erickson, taking a few steps back, "Just perfect… makes the Accio spell much easier."
"What," whispered Ron confused, turning realizing what Rela was sensing?
"Accio wands," shouted Erickson and all their wands flew from their hands.
The other two caught them in mid-air and rather then give the wands back; they simply snickered and walked up to stand beside Erickson, pocketing the wands.
"Well this is great," said Ron, his anger beginning to surge.
"Well the Master was right," said Erickson with a tone of superiority, "It wasn't anything to draw them out."
"Master?" said Hermione confused, "You're Death Eaters?"
"Like we would need some note," sneered Erickson not bothering to answer Hermione, "We've always known where Potter was."
"And we'll prove that our Master is the supreme Dark Lord," growled one of the other two while the third walked over to another building, " Not some half dead vampire like Malleck."
Ron just glared at Erickson as Rela stood a step behind and confusion changed fast to disgusted.
"So you chose now to act," snapped Hermione bravely, "When it's the eve of a holiday… you lot decide to pull something now?"
Erickson just started laughing as did the one next to him. The third had gone to another building and was leading something small out a doorway, covered in an overlarge cloak and bound in the middle by a rope.
"Well it's a present you see," answered Erickson happily, "A gift to the world to know who to really fear and to our Master with Potter's end."
Erickson's second peered at Rela and then added, "But that doesn't mean we can't have our own fun."
Ron's face darkened horribly and the air got warmer as he moved forward stating, "I'll show you fun."
The third smiled and replied with, "Not unless you're willing to pay the fare."
And with that Ron stopped dead cold as did the warming of the air. The third wizard had removed the cloak from the object and it was revealed to be a small dark haired girl, possibly not older than eight years. Her eyes danced wildly, terrified and whimpers could be heard but the girl didn't move at all. It wasn't hard to deduce that the full body bind had been placed on her.
"Try anything and the brat suffers for it," warned the third, "So step back… and wait until our guests arrive."
Ron took a few steps back slowly and Hermione tried to think but it was hard as she felt her-self become disorientated.
"Looks like they're here," said Erickson as a large number of Dementors filed into the area.
As Hermione's mind clouded and felt her-self losing balance, she could see the same happening to Ron and Rela. Ron seemed to be able to fight it more but Rela was turning a terrible shade of white.
Screams followed as villagers tried to run but were cut off by Dementors and other dark wizards. Distant screams and cries followed as well. In moments, the skies reflected the colors of spells being cast amongst the shouts in the air. A battle had begun in a village where only half the population could use a wand to fight or otherwise a perfect place for a slaughter.
"Looks like we won't need this anymore," said the third as he raised and aimed his wand at the little girl, "But let's make it interesting."
A glow filled the tip of his wand as he yelled," Crucio!"
Hermione watched with horror as the spell left the wand and Ron even yelled out against them. A gust of strong wind came and the spell connected. A body slumped to the ground along with a piercing scream and they all became too shocked to speak. The girl still remained where she was, eyes closed, whimpers still coming but the person with long blonde hair in front of her made no sound at all.
Even Erickson was surprised as Ron with great effort moved forward and Hermione fought to keep her balance.
Meanwhile inside, the door closed and Harry found him-self in a dimly lit room full of potions and other knick knack magic items. It looked to be a store, probably closed for festivities, but it was terribly quite. He couldn't even hear anyone talking outside and began to knock on the door, receiving no response. Harry reached for his wand to get their attention, fighting the panic presence of a cold feeling settling into his chest.
"Hello Harry," said someone behind him, "Leaving so soon? But you just got here."
Harry turned expecting to see a kind face but received the opposite. A man he knew from before came into view by the name of Macnair, a Death Eater for Voldemort.
"So glad you could come," sneered Macnair, "But I must ask why you lot do such stupid tings? One familiar face and you're ready to trust anything."
"Erickson," whispered Harry, feeling as panic began to set in?
"Very good," mocked Macnair, stepping forward pointing his wand and reaching into Harry's robes, "And here's your prize."
The cold feeling in his chest spread throughout his body and Harry began to feel faint. Seeing as three Dementors enter through a doorway in the back and glided slowly towards Harry. Macnair stepped back a few feet as he pulled Harry's wand from within his robes, pocketing it.
Screams reached Harry's ears, the screams of a woman he knew, a woman he called mother and they grew.
"Wallow in pain Potter," growled Macnair, "Just as our Master did for years."
The screams continued as his mind jumped from memory to memory in a cacophonic blast of assaulting flashes.
The Dursleys laughing…
Dudley opening a mountain of gifts…
Schoolmates laughing and pointing…
Teachers scoffing…
Dudley's ganging chasing him…
"Know that there's no one here for you," laughed Macnair.
His mind continued to flash like a slide show run by a mad man.
A dark enclosed place with only a vent for air and light like that of a cupboard…
A place behind a garbage bin at primary school…
A dark alley between shops in town…
The stair way in the dead of night…
The bushes in front of the house…
Broom closets at primary school…
"But don't fret too much as you die," spoke Macnair with pleasure, "You won't go to your mud blood mother alone… oh no… all your little nuisances will follow in due time."
The madness of scene after scene continued in Harry's mind bringing a burning pain to the inside of his skull as his body twitched and weakened.
The moment where Cedric's body hit the ground, dead as death can make a person. His face cemented in the expression of shock. But the scene changed to where Cedric was not the body on the ground with that same terrible look. Instead others reprised his part of an ended life, nothing more than carcass lying on the ground, killed for pointless reasons. Harry's mind watched every person he knew and cared for in some way took a moment in that role. Their once caring and smiling face becoming that cemented form of Cedric.
Ron…
Hermione…
Fred…
Ginny...
Neville…
Justin…
Professor McGonagall…
Mr. Weasley…
Charlie…
Hagrid…
Cho…
Mrs. Weasley…
Professor Lupin…
Bill…
Seamus…
Dean…
George…
Percy…
Professor Dumbledore…
Hermione…
Rela…
Fleur…
Lavender…
Patti…
Professor Snape…
Hermione…
And a host more of people from Hogwarts, Harry called friends.
The pain became so great that Harry had to hold his head in both hands as he collapsed against the floor.
"Make sure you lot take your time," ordered Macnair, "He must know what is to suffer like so many he was the cause of."
It seemed like Macnair was directing the Dementors on their torment of his mind as now terrible moments where pain and suffering came in some form or another for people.
The Dursleys terrified of Hagrid's arrival…
The troll swinging its club at Hermione…
Gryffindor losing so many points…
The dead Unicorn killed by Quirrell…
The Queen Chess piece striking at Ron…
Quirrell screaming as he turned to dust…
Ms. Norris petrified…
The ashen but still looks of his petrified peers…
The even more dead like look of the blasted Gryffindor ghost…
The basilisk screaming in pain as the sword of Gryffindor pieced its hide…
Ginny in her mother's arms…
Dobby smiling hopelessly besides Lucius Malfoy…
Neville when his passwords were stolen…
Ron's breaking leg…
Hermione's screams inside the Shrieking shack…
The Dark mark appearing…
The Muggles abused for amusement…
Ron's disbelief in him…
The terrible scene under the lake…
Hermione covered in bubotuber pus…
Cho crying…
Justin staring out the window…
And many, many, many more that followed. Each a moment that had been brought on by something Harry did or was.
"Learn your place," growled Macnair, "And understand why you are no different than the sheep we slaughter."
Names flashed through Harry's mind of those lost, their names spoken by others.
Barty Crouch… Frank Bryce… Bertha Jonkins…
"And you'll know," said Macnair sneering malevolently, "That you can never do anything to prevent our power… let alone even considered the idea."
Harry's head throbbed with pain, too distracted to measure it as dark memories blasted through his mind amongst the screams of his mother replaying over and over and over.
As un-conscientiousness began to settle in to Harry's pain filled body. Another thought came to him.
Nothing could stand in our way…
Our powers united would crush whatever dares to try…
Together we will make all even our enemies cower in loyalty or be obliterated in conquest
Though dark and sounding like a banshee it had a strange comfort it. His conscientiousness ebbing almost completely away, he heard the creature he had hoped not to hear anymore.
Do you really want to give up now… or end this… end them?
Now would be a good time to choose… or lose… everything.
Suddenly Harry's mind took another painful blast but this time things weren't so horrible.
Hermione's warm smile…
Mrs. Weasley's hug…
The cheering of the Quidditch crowds…
The rushing air on a broom…
Hermione's few but warm hugs through the year…
The feel of her skin when picked her up…
Ron's laughter and invitations for fun…
Professor McGonagall's few but praising words…
Dumbledore gaze of belief and hope…
Dobby's odd elf smiles…
Hermione lips upon his cheek…
Rela timid but friendly nature…
Hermione's hand gripping his and their fingers entwining…
The smiles of those around him and the people at school who believed in him…
Sirius's encouraging words…
Hagrid's unwavering belief in him…
Lupin's encouragement and revelations…
Hermione's hair on his skin…
The smell of flowers around her…
The touch of her hand to his cheek…
All his friends, all the people who risked much helping and knowing him, all would be lost if he did nothing.
This one thought filled Harry's pain ridden torture mind.
He would lose everyone and everything unless he made a choice.
A choice the dark creature urged, the choice Riddle made years ago.
To take what swelled in his heart, poisoned his soul, brought nightmares night after night and release it all at once.
Macnair said something else and the dementors glided back a few feet. Macnair stepped forward and grabbed the thing of boy crouched on the floor and hoisted him up.
"Well what have to you say," snarled Macnair, "Before I use my privilege to end you."
In an instant, deafening thunder rumbled and the windows shattered. Potions bubbled and bottles began exploding as the room's temperature turned to ice. Flashes of lightening light up outside the broken windows.
Evidence of a choice made…
To Macnair's surprise, Harry didn't seem to be in any pain and instead watched as the boy reached out, gripping his robes tightly. The surprise was replaced by confused horror as Harry opened his eyes and gave Macnair his answer.
An explosion followed and one wall gave out completely. Hermione struggled on the ground, turning her head with whatever strength remained as pieces of the wall blasted out. The Dementors around them stumbled slightly in their gliding ways as the stone pieces and wood flew by. Amongst it all a body of a wizard flew out across the way, landing some distance from them. Ron couldn't see as a Dementor held him, preparing to give its kiss. Rela still lay on the ground having been it by the Cruciatius curse. The three wizards had been standing by laughing when the explosion occurred. Erickson was able to remain mostly in place though losing balance while the other two were knocked away by debris.
Hermione was able to finally see into the heavily damaged building and found a sight not ever conceived.
The inside was black, more so than any shade she could think of, void of any light but one. In the darkness two small eyes, bright as fire, cold in their stare but red as the blood emanated within. There came a growl, loud and threatening, like a beast preparing to strike.
"What the hell is that," asked Erickson, starting to get back on his feet?
The Dementors did nothing but look towards the opening. Other dark wizards came rushing from alleyways and more to see what had happened. Villagers, that could be seen, huddle in corners begging not to be harmed.
It was then the creature, hidden by the darkness, unleashed reason for being.
Elsewhere at Hogwarts, a window to the Headmaster's office blew open and he looked up as rushing wind blew in. Fawkes spread out its wings and began screeching loudly as the wind blew by. As it did, a set of tarot cards on a shelf were swept up and swirled in the air towards the desk. After a few seconds, the wind stopped and all the cards floated to the floor but five of which floated and landed in front of the Headmaster, facing up. At this Professor McGonagall burst in.
"Albus, "spoke Professor McGonagall impatiently and worriedly, "The elves are all frightened for some reason... they've locked themselves in the kitchen."
Saying nothing at first, Dumbledore looked at the five cards that now lay before him. The first showed an image of a village on fire. The second bore an image of a dragon reared on its hind legs, roaring into the sky. Those two were labeled Destruction and Dragon. The third card illustrated an empty prison cell with manacles on the floor as its iron bar door swung freely open. The fourth card revealed a dark image, as black as a starless night with two dark but bright eyes in the background. They were labeled the Dungeon and Demon cards. The final card presented an image of a faceless person holding their chest as blood seeped from the hands. It was labeled the Wounded.
"The chains are broken… the dragon, Degarus, has awakened from slumber," said Dumbledore, his words full of sorrow suddenly, "His wounds still not healed… and now destruction will follow in the wake of his rage."
McGonagall stared at the Headmaster as he just looked back.
"Now we shall see if our efforts and the love of those around him has been enough," stated Dumbledore, "Or many may not survive… this Storm of Torment."
Next Chapter
Aftermath