"Character Speech"

Inner thoughts/ Emphasis

'Quotes or references'

Spells

}Parseltongue{

Since this is an AU story, it may have new or changed elements, characters in it. Terms used in the canon may hold different meaning here. In such cases, brief explanations or a character list may be provided at the end of the chapter.

Please read the author's notes at the end of the chapter.

Chapter 3

A Wand, Some Lightning, and a New Friendship

Harry glared at Albus as toppled over the cobbled pavement of Diagon Alley. Albus simply gave a chuckle at his predicament, and Harry's scowl deepened in response.

"It is not funny!" Harry whined, making Albus chuckle once more.

"You are the only person I have seen who is hated by magical transports that much." The Headmaster said with a twinkle in his eye. "Or you could be that clumsy." He added mischievously.

"Take that back!"

"Why?" Albus relished these moments of childish arguments with Harry too much. "I think it's quite the fitting adjective."

"You!" Harry fumed. "Then maybe I should call you a barmy old co..."

"Ahem" Minerva gave a cough to draw their attention, and they gave her sheepish looks as the realized their bickering had drawn a rather impressive crowd.

"Shall we take this elsewhere?" She asked, and Albus could detect a hint of amusement beneath her usual stern tone. They nodded and followed her, the southern side their destination.

Harry had come to Diagon Alley before, but the crowds of people bustling around always overwhelmed him. The stares his group kept getting wasn't helping much either. But who could blame them.

Harry Potter, Albus Dumbledore, and Minerva McGonagall together in Diagon Alley would make quite a sight. Harry thought. At least they aren't trying to box us in and ask questions like the first time me and Albus came here.

He first came here when he was six years old, coming in through the 'wall entrance' on Albus' insistence. People took one look, and the next moment they were swarmed by this huge crowd, asking all sorts of questions and even taking pictures. Harry remembered feeling deathly afraid and Fawkes whisking him back to the castle when Albus had failed to contain the situation. That was quite the experience.

"Harry, we're here." Minerva notified him, breaking him out of his thoughts.

"Oh." Harry looked at the plaque. "Ollivanders." He read aloud. He remembered the countless times he had pestered Albus and Minerva to get him a wand. He had even stolen Albus' wand with Fawkes' help to make a point. That is one story I'm never gonna tell anyone.

As if Albus could hear his thoughts, he gave him a wink as they entered the shop. It was surprisingly empty, only the shopkeeper was inside.

"Nine and a half inches long, Fir wood, Dragon Heartstring. Surprisingly flexible, and probably proud of it's owner for using it's potential to the fullest." An old man was standing before them, his wide, pale eyes shining like moons through the gloom of the shop, looking at Minerva who gave a small smile as a greeting.

"Garrick." Albus nodded as a greeting.

"I'm surprised. To have the esteemed Headmaster and Deputy Headmistress together in their humble shop is not something that happens to one everyday." The old man remarked cheerfully.

"Young Harry here," Albus gestured towards Harry "is here for his first wand."

"Ah, is that so." Ollivander's expression turned to one of excitement. "Mr. Potter, if you will please join me here" He gestured to the counter "I will begin with taking the measurements."

"About that." Albus intervened. "Fawkes has generously decided to donate a feather." Harry and Minerva turned to him in surprise, while Ollivander's eyebrows went up.

"I take it that it is to be a custom then?" Albus nodded at the old man's question. "You know well that I do not take custom orders."

"I daresay the boy will need it." Albus replied, giving the old man a look.

"Oh very well, I'll humor you just this once." Ollivander sighed, in an exasperated manner. "Come here, then." He told Harry. "I need to take your measurements."

"Give me your hands." He told Harry, grabbing them both as he held them up. He proceeded to carefully examine his hands, taking out a tape measure from his left pocket and taking measures here and there. All the while he kept muttering incomprehensibly, writing down seemingly random numbers on a parchment.

"Interesting." He said five minutes later, stepping away from Harry. "I want to test something. Mr. Potter, if you will kindly take this." Ollivander handed Harry a wand from the counter. "Hold it in your right, then your left hand. Tell me what you feel. And for heaven's sake, do not try to cast anything."

Harry help the wand up in his right, trying to feel for something. A moment later, he felt a slight itchy sensation.

"It feels itchy." He told the man.

"That's because the wand is not suitable for you." Ollivander supplied impatiently. "The other hand please."

Harry did as he was told, feeling the same itchy sensation again. "It feels itchy again."

"Is the intensity the same?" Ollivander did not look surprised.

"Yes." Harry answered. This time he was sure the old man hid his surprise as he looked at Albus.

"Perfectly ambidextrous. How very peculiar." He remarked, Minerva's head snapped towards Harry, and Albus' annoying twinkle was at full force.

"What is so peculiar, sir?" Harry inquired, a bit annoyed that he was being left out of the loop.

"Normally a wizard is only capable 'feeling' any form of magic through only one of his hands. Some can get this 'feeling' in both hands," Minerva explained. "but only one hand will feel this sensation dominantly, the other barely feeling it."

"For example," Albus spoke up. "I mainly cast with my right hand, but I can also use my left. Except the spell will not be as effective."

"So one hand is almost always dominant." Harry summarized.

"Not in your case, Mr. Potter." Ollivander said. "Your case seems to be truly ambidextrous, capable of using your wand with any hand you fancy."

"So I should practice casting with both hands then?" Harry asked confusedly. "While it may be somewhat useful in case I get disarmed and can grab the wand with my other hand and cast for a surprise, I don't really think it's a big deal. Unless I use two wands, I do not any benefit."

"It most definitely is, Mr. Potter." Ollivander disagreed. "You see, the more ambidextrous a witch or wizard is, the better she or he is in tune or sync with his magic, as this shows that they can 'sense' magic better than the average. No, it does not indicate power." He answered before Harry could ask. "It mostly allows you to learn a spell faster, and cast more effectively. You will also have an easier time mastering silent and motionless casting, as you will sense the magic behind them. With experience, it will translate to you being capable of directing your magic with your intention to a degree that many cannot comprehend."

"Albus can sense magic around him." Harry said.

"Yes, but it will take a long time, and hard work to get to that point. You will have an easier time than I did, I hope." Albus beamed at him.

"Alright, Mr. Potter." Ollivander interjected. "Time's a wasting. Let's see which wood is best suited for you, eh?" He hurried into the back of his shop, bringing back three blocks of wood.

"Now, Mr. Potter, just take this block here and tell me if feels 'right' when you try to channel your magic in it."

Harry gave the man a skeptical look, and took the whitish wood block. He waited for a moment as he let his magic flow. Nothing but a little tingle.

"Just a little tingle." He told Ollivander.

"Aspen wood, good for duelists. I was quite sure it would suit you well." He handed Harry another block. "Try this one."

This time Harry felt a bit more from the wood block. He felt a bit of comfort, a kind of warmth that immediately faded when he tried to focus on it.

"I felt a bit warm, but it faded." Harry frowned, perplexed about the entire experience.

"Blackthorn. A wood that makes wands for warriors. A powerful combination with Dragon Heartstring." Ollivander said, pensive. "Try the last one, then."

Harry took the block in his hands and immediately a sense of warmth enveloped him, considerably stronger this time. But as he focused on the sensation, it eluded him, always out of his reach. After a minute, he gave the block back, disappointment creeping in.

"I take it that it was not the one?" Ollivander asked as he watched the boy's expression. "Do not lose heart Mr. Potter, for I have dealt with wizards who have kept me occupied for six hours in search of their perfect wands. But we are very close, oh so close." He rubbed his hands together in excitement as he walked to the back of the shop.

"I am confident Mr. Potter, that the next wood is your ideal one." He hollered from the back. "Hold on a minute. I rarely get to work with this particular wood type."

A minute later, he appeared with a very beautiful, delicate, reddish wood block in hand, his expression bordering on giddy. Harry noticed both Albus and Minerva raise an eyebrow, but they did not say a thing.

"Here, give this a try, Mr. Potter, and tell us how it feels" Harry took the block, and just as his hand had touched it, he felt as if an icy sensation overcame him. He shivered.

It was different from the pleasant warmth of the other woods, but he knew this was the one. He felt as if he was standing if the midst of winter, in front of a tree as it rained it's flowers upon him. He closed his eyes, and the sensation flared ten times more.

"Congratulations, Mr. Potter." Ollivander's warm voice broke his reverie. "I cannot help but ask, how does it feel?"

"Like the comforting chill at the start of winter." Harry answered with what he was sure a goofy grin on his face.

"As it should." Ollivander nodded in satisfaction. "That is cherry wood, a delicate wood that makes some of the most volatile and powerful wands, despite it's novel appearance. And this wood is very different from the norm as well." He continued. "This particular block is from Fuyuzakura, a very special cherry tree that blossoms in winter, not spring."

"Well, Albus, may I see the feather Fawkes has given so kindly?" Ollivander gestured.

"Are you certain that it would be the ideal core?" Everyone rolled their eyes at Albus' rhetoric question.

"Yes, yes, I admit it." Ollivander snapped impatiently. "The boy did indeed need a custom. Now hand me the feather please."

The Headmaster's twinkle was in full force as he handed the old man a bundle of silk cloth, the feather carefully nestled inside. Ollivander picked the feather up with utmost caution. Harry noted that despite being detached from it's owner, the feather glowed the bright fiery orange he associated with his favorite avian friend.

"Hum," Ollivander seemed lost in a world of his own. "It seems due to it's 'donor' being so accepting, eager even, the feather is more than favorable as well." With no more words, he grabbed the wood block and disappeared to the back of the shop.

"It seems Garrick has finally found another project that requires his absolute attention." Albus remarked, amused. "Come, Harry. We best use this time elsewhere. And do make sure to flip the sign 'closed' on the way out."

For the next two hours, the group roamed around the Alley, visiting the Leaky Cauldron for lunch, and Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlor as well, much to Harry's delight. They had spent a considerable chunk of their time at Eeylops Owl Emporium on Harry's insistence that he get a pet. They had searched through the whole store, but to Harry's disappointment, he had yet to find one that he felt anything for.

"Let's go." His shoulders sagged as he looked at the Snowy Owl. She had finally managed to peak his interest, only for him to realize that the bird was very proud, so much so that Harry felt that it clashed against the humble persona he had been taught to aspire. And much to his distaste, the bird's behavior somehow reminded him of one Lucias Malfoy, the most unpleasant man he had ever met.

"But she looks beautiful. A rare breed as well." Minerva objected.

"She reminds me of Mr. Malfoy." Harry bluntly responded, knowing that it was best to stop her before she dug her feet in too deep.

"Oh." She blanched at the mention of Malfoy, and looked away from the bird.

"Don't worry Harry." Albus attempted to soothe the boy as they walked out of the store. "I'm sure we can find one animal you might like."

"You guys know that I'm not really a cat or dog person. No offense, Minerva." Harry joked at her animagus form, and was rewarded with a smidgen of a smile from the stern professor. "And I'm pretty sure nobody really takes toads to Hogwarts either."

"So?" Albus waved off his gloomy musings. "You can look for a pet besides these three then. It's simple."

"But Hogwarts only allows these three!" Harry reminded him. "I'm going to be a first year student the next year."

"No, your not." While Albus was sure his Deputy would rebuke him later for his love of theatrics, he could not help but twinkle in amusement as they suddenly halted their tracks and looked at him.

"Headmaster?"

"What!"

"Harry will not be admitted into Hogwarts as a student." Albus informed them.

"But..." Harry was interrupted by the serious look on Albus' face.

"Let me explain." He motioned for them to follow him as they talked. "I told you Harry, that I wanted you to have as normal a childhood that I can provide." Harry nodded. "But with the events of the past few years, I'm no longer sure it's ideal, or even possible." He paused as a brief look of sadness overtook his features. "Two times you have found yourself in situations where you survived on sheer luck and bravery. And neither Minerva nor I was there to prevent them from happening. I know you don't blame us, Harry." He gave a wry smile at Harry's attempt to deny it. "But the reality is just that. We were not there. Also, I highly doubt that he" Albus said in a harsh tone. "would leave you alone."

"So we need you prepared for any eventuality." He told the boy. "The best way to do so, I think, would be that you learn from Professor McGonagall, Professor Flitwick, and myself. Between the three of us, we can cover all the basic subjects you will need to prepare."

"I don't mind." Albus felt relieved at the boy's answer. "But I wish to study magical creatures as well." Harry demanded.

"I'll inform Hagrid. I'm pretty sure that he would be delighted." Albus happily gave in.

"I'm sorry professor." The Headmaster offered the Gryffindor Head a kind smile. "I'm sure you wanted to see Harry in Gryffindor, but this is for the best."

"I agree." She looked a bit dejected, but she understood the reasoning.

"And that means," Albus decided to lighten the mood up a bit. "that Harry here gets to choose whatever animal he likes as a pet. Or maybe we'll get lucky and you'll end up with a familiar."

"Really?" Harry's eyes lit up in glee.

"Yes, really." Albus assured. "In fact, I think we will head out to look for a pet right now." He then turned his attention to Professor McGonagall. "Professor, I think it's best if you go and check up on Ollivander. I think he is done by now, so it is best if one of us waits there." She was about to object, but looking at his expression, she simply nodded, gave Harry an affectionate smile and left.

"Let us get going then." Albs couldn't help but laugh at the excited whoop Harry gave.

"Take a look around Mr. Potter." The gray man said with an enthusiastic tone. "I'm sure your will find your pet, or dare I hope, your familiar in here. He held the door open, but Harry hesitated.

"Don't worry Harry." Albus assured him. "Atieno is a dear friend of mine. I'm sure he would not let someone venture in without precaution."

Harry took another look at the man as he went in. The man was very old, judging by his gait, manner and hair color, but he was extremely well built for his age. And his blood red eyes were, if it was as Harry suspected, no good sign either. The man door closed the glass door on him as he focused his attention on Albus.

Oh well, if Albus thinks a shop run by a very well fed vampire, in Knockturn Alley no less, is a good choice, then he's is only person I'll believe. Harry shrugged. Plus, the door is made of glass, so I'm sure they can check up on me. He thought as he turned around.

To say that he was astonished was an understatement. The back of the shop was filled with species of creatures magical and normal alike, and was enlarged to the point where a zoo would be put shame compared to it. He saw Nifflers, Murtlaps, Bowtruckles, Occamys, Demiguises, Billywigs, even an Erumpent and a creature he suspected to be a baby Nundu. Then there were the non-magical creatures. From tigers, wolves, snakes, eagles to monkeys, the shop possibly had a complete collection of all non-magical creatures known to man. All caged in a pale, translucent, bluish ward scheme weaved around an artificially created habitat suitable to the creatures. It was so huge, that one could easily get lost if they were not careful.

Harry gulped as he very carefully walked past the baby Nundu's cage, noting it's strangely serene expression as it looked at him. Maybe the wards have some sort of pacifying effect. Or perhaps the Nundu can't actually see me? Harry pondered as he looked around, reading the plaques that gave an explanation of the creature's cage they stood beside. So far, he had not found any creature he felt a connection or liking to. Now that he was sure the baby nundu would not harm him, it looked kind of cute. But he was pretty sure asking Albus if he could have the Nundu for a pet would be rather ill-advised.

Harry finally found the former hypothesis to be true as he neared the snakes section. He saw all the snakes glance towards him bu he focused on reading the plaques on their respective cages, mildly surprised at the vast collection of snakes the man had.

}A human? Has it come to feed us?{ The Death Adder curiously lifted it's head, examining Harry for food.

}Do not be silly.{ The Black Mamba admonished. }Only the master ever feeds us, and it is not the time. It has probably come to see us, like the others.{

}But I am hungry. Oi, human! Bring me a meal.{ The Adder whined.

}I see that the hunger has addled your senses.{ The Blue Krait from the rightmost cage observed dryly. }You forget that it cannot understand us, you brainless fool!{

Harry simply tuned out the rest of their conversation and walked away. The snakes in the Forbidden Forrest make better conversation than this bickering. He thought. Perhaps I could choose a snake from there?

So absorbed was he in his own thoughts, that he passed by the rest of the cages, barely paying any attention to the animals there. He walked and walked, getting lost in the vast place. Till a loud hiss brought him back to his senses.

He was face to face with a growling Leopard, almost as white as snow.

He hurriedly backed off, almost stumbling in fright. The beast continued to growl at him, it's eyes glaring at him, maw open like it was about to swallow him whole. Harry gulped, his heart hammering in his chest.

He looked at the plaque just beside the enclosure. "Snow Leopard. Is a large cat native to the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia." He read. "The Snow Leopard's fur is whitish to gray with black spots on head and neck, but larger rosettes on the back, flanks and bushy tail. The belly is whitish. The Snow Leopard shows several adaptations for living in a cold, mountainous environment. Its body is stocky, its fur is thick, and its ears are small and rounded, features that help to minimize heat loss. Its broad paws well distribute the body weight for walking on snow, and have fur on their undersides to increase their grip on steep and unstable surfaces; it also helps to minimize heat loss. Its long and flexible tail helps to maintain balance in the rocky terrain. The tail is also very thick due to fat storage, and is very thickly covered with fur, which allows the cat to use it like a blanket to protect its face when asleep…"

"Very dangerous to magical beings." Harry skipped to the warnings. "While it's bite has no special effect on muggles, a bite from this beast will completely strip away the magic from any wizard or magical creature permanently. The more potent magic the victim has, the longer they suffer, with a greater chance of death. Completely magic reliant beings and creatures, such as Werewolves, vampires, and unicorns face inevitable death. Do not approach" Harry paled as he stopped reading. "at any cost."

He looked at the beast's wild eyes. It was eyeing him hungrily, like a predator does prey. The hissing noises emitting from it's threat was not a good sign either. Harry practically ran away from the cage, desperate to find his way out as quickly as possible, his search for a pet readily forgotten.

After a few minutes, he could actually hear the beast banging on the wards. Beads of sweat poured from his forehead as he failed to locate the way out. Why can't Albus hear the noises? Is the door silenced? Or am I too far away?

He thought of yelling for help, but his voice died in his throat as he heard a loud 'ding' from the wards, followed by a loud crash and a growl. Oh god.

Harry ran for his life, all sane thoughts driven from his head. He ran faster and faster as he heard the Leopard bounding after him. His loud footsteps were giving his position away, but he only ran harder, hoping to find a way to cut to the door.

There! Harry saw a niche ahead between two enclosures, opening a path for him to hopefully backtrack to the door. He took a sharp turn and panted through, the door far ahead but in sight. With hope rising in his heart, he ran breathlessly, ignoring the ferocious growls of the beast giving chase.

Almost there!

He was so close. He could almost see himself running out the door, but his hopes were dashed.

The beast pounced upon him, it's full weight forcing him to collide with the floor, his nose breaking in the process. The beast growled savagely, as if the scent of his blood drove it more insane. He tried to flip over, but a smack from it's paw caused a loud crack to sound out, the excruciating pain informing him that his right arm was of no more use.

As the beast stood over his broken, limp body, Harry knew it was over. There was no miracle, no protection to save him this time. This time, he would surely die. The beast's bite would rip his magic apart, and it would surely follow though, mangling him into a bloody corpse to consume.

Fuck this. He decided to try anyway.

He closed his eyes as he felt it's breath on his neck, calling on his magic for help. He felt something in him respond, as it did on that night in the chamber. It pulsed through his body, his intent directing the force to the beast above.

The beast was suddenly hurled off of his back with a massive force, resulting in it crashing into the floor. The impact was so hard that Harry could swear he heard an audible crack from it's direction, and the beast agonizingly hissed.

He tried to stand up and run, but he tripped. The door was tantalizingly close, yet just out of his reach. He tried again, but his world swirled. He fell unceremoniously to the floor for the umpteenth time, and beast's broken, but heavy paw fell on him again.

It was over. He had tried his best, and it wasn't enough.

Harry smiled. At least it won't be able to damage someone else in it's wounded state.

Suddenly, he heard a loud screech, followed by the sounds of crashing thunder. Winds whipped around him violently, the Leopard gave a frightened whine.

The crushing weight over him was suddenly lifted, followed by the sound of breaking glass and Albus' alarmed cry. He felt dizzy as he tried to to get up and run, in a last ditch effort. His vision fogged as his legs failed him. The last thing he saw was a large bird tossing the Leopard to the streets.

"No!" Harry screamed as he woke up, his heart hammering away from the nightmare.

"Ah!" A startled cry sounded from his right, distinctly feminine in nature.

Freaked out even more, Harry looked at the source.

The girl he saved from Yaxley was sitting across his bed, and he was in the school infirmary. He was about to ask what he was doing here, but she fiercely hugged him.

Harry was so stunned that he couldn't even hug her back before she was back in her seat. She blushed at his flabbergasted expression.

"Sorry, but I was so worried." She muttered.

"But I'm fi..." Harry winced a he felt a sharp pain in his right shoulder.

"Don't move Harry, your arm is not done healing yet." Poppy informed him as she sent her patronus bounding through the wall. "I have messaged the Headmaster and Deputy. They will be here soon."

"But how?" Harry asked, confused.

"You don't remember the incident?" Poppy looked mildly surprised. "You were attacked by a Snow Leopard last week. You've been here ever since."

"So it wasn't a dream?" Harry asked. "Wait," He looked at the healer. "Last week? How long have I been in here?"

"Eight days." The girl told him. "You've been here for eight days."

"Eight days?" Harry dumbly asked.

"Yes." Poppy answered. "You had a broken nose, your skull cracked when you fell, a concussion, your whole right arm was cracked. Albus was so worried when he brought you in." Her expression softened. "You made us all worried. I kicked out the Headmaster and Professor McGonagall four days later. Albus didn't even leave once in that time." Harry's felt comforted by the gesture, and slightly unhappy that he made his guardians worry so much.

"Umm, but what she doing here? No offense." Harry asked, pointing to the girl he had saved.

"Erm," The girl began to chew on her bottom lip, nervous. "I heard that you got hurt last Sunday, so I came to visit. When I saw your condition, I couldn't leave." She stuttered over the words. "So I came back and stayed here whenever I could, helping out Madam Pomfrey to look after you."

Harry gave Poppy a look, as if to ask why she had let the girl stay.

"I had no choice Harry." Poppy answered. "She threatened to camp outside the infirmary if we didn't let her in. Plus, her family has a business in healing potions. So she was of great help in your treatment."

Harry quirked an eyebrow at the girl, and she blushed again. "I never really got the chance to thank you. So I wanted to express it by helping you heal."

"You're welcome, Ms. Bell." Harry offered her a smile. "And thanks for looking after me."

"It was the least I could do. And please, call me Katie." She blushed again, and Harry noted how cute she looked.

"Alright. But only if you call me Harry as well." Harry felt

"Harry!" Minerva ran towards him, all propriety forgotten, as she enveloped him in a warm hug. "Oh Harry." She whispered, tears falling freely. He could see Albus slowly coming in, his gait that of a defeated man. He could see that Katie wanted to leave, so he waved at her as she left.

"Harry, I'm so sorry..." Albus began, tears welling up in his eyes. "I failed you again."

"Stuff it old man." Harry heard Poppy gasp and Minerva stiffen at his words, but he needed to stop Albus from blaming himself. "If anything, or anyone is to blame, then it's my wonderful luck that lands me in these situations."

"But..." Albus tried to speak.

"No buts." Harry interrupted as Minerva finally pulled back. "The cages were warded to the point that they were mini fortresses. They offered better protection than the cages at the London Zoo, and people take their children there. The only way some thing could happen if someone, someone well acquainted with the warding scheme willingly messed with it."

"And I'm willing to bet that's exactly what happened." He finished, a calculating glint in his eyes.

"It wasn't aimed at you." Albus told him. "Atieno's assistant was bribed to weaken the wards to the point that the Leopard could break free, and to inject the animal with potions that drove it's mind insane. The door was silenced and made to be slightly opaque once closed, enough that one could not see inside unless they were really close."

"He would have died." Harry deduced. Werewolves, vampires, and unicorns face inevitable death.

"Indeed." Albus nodded gravely. "But you prevented it from happening."

"More like I was the first meal it found." Harry snorted. "But wait." He looked at Albus. "I never opened the door."

"No, and we had moved to the very front of the shop, so we did not see anything either." Albus replied, shame evident in his tone.

"Then how?" Harry dumbly asked.

"You were very lucky Mr. Potter." Atieno's voice sounded as he, and a rather young looking Fawkes appeared in with a flash of flames. "Had the Thunderbird not decided to intervene, I'm afraid we would not be speaking to you today."

So that's why Fawkes didn't heal me. Harry realized. His tears won't be potent enough after a burning day.

"Thunder...bird?" Harry asked confusedly, turning his attention to the grayed man.

"A majestic bird that is found in North America, most commonly the Arizona desert." Atieno explained. It can sense danger and creates storms as it flies."

The thunder and the winds. Harry remembered.

"I had a young adult female brought in last week. It was not caged like the others, as Thunderbirds are harmless to humans, even if not domesticated." Atieno said in a sad tone. "It carried Victor off of you and threw him at the door, then helped us take the poor thing down. He was so out of it that we could do nothing for him."

"Victor?" Harry couldn't help but ask.

"Yes," Atieno answered wistfully. "I rescued that Snow Leopard when he was a newborn cub. His mother was killed off by a hunter. He was very docile, and one of the few animals I would let out of their cage at times. When he started behaving oddly a few weeks ago, I chalked it up to be a disease and tried to treat him. I never thought..."

Despite being chased to near death by said animal, Harry felt a pang of sympathy for them both. Atieno obviously cared for the poor thing a lot.

"What happened to your assistant?" Harry asked, fully intent on getting back at the culprit.

"Don't bother about him," The aged vampire's eyes glowed an ominous red hue. "We," He pointed at at Albus and himself. "have made sure he will never try such a thing again." Harry felt a cold sweat run over him at the bloodthirsty tone. I'm sure he will never get another chance to.

"I must thank you, Mr. Potter." The vampire continued in a more civil tone. "You saved me from a potential death."

"I did nothing of that sort." Harry denied vehemently. "I was at the wrong place at the worst possible time, and my luck saved my hide once again." Atieno gave Albus a look at the 'again' part.

"So you're the humble sort, eh?" Atieno finally cracked a polite smile. "It's a good quality. Keeps your ego out of your way. But remember, many glorious stories of many heroes have originated from being at the wrong place" He winked. "at the worst time." Harry had to grin at that.

"So however the incident may have happened" The vampire continued. "the end result is that you saved my life. And so, I wish to give you something in return." He held up a hand before Harry could protest. "You may keep her, Harry." He smile. "I had not planned on selling her, but it seems that she has become very attached to you for some reason."

"Who?" Harry asked, confused.

"Why, the Thunderbird of course." Atieno replied as if it was obvious. "She flew back here and has stayed at the Forbidden Forest since then."

"I had to enlarge the window." Albus pointed out with an amused twinkle in his eye. "She was very persistent that we let her in, and has come to see you every day." Harry could hear Poppy huff and say something about stupid birds invading her infirmary.

Ah," Atieno suddenly glanced at the window. "Here she comes."

Harry peered at the window like the others, and was treated to a breathtaking sight.

A large bird descended from the clouds, the morning rays reflecting brilliantly from it's feathers. Her three pairs of wings beat in sync as she headed for the window, making a graceful landing as Albus opened it.

She looked at Harry, her eyes keenly observing him, checking him for any injuries. Once she was satisfied that he looked better, she slowly came over. Harry reached out with his right hand, ignoring the flare of pain, and she leaned into his touch, sounding a trill of satisfaction.

Harry stared in awe as he petted her. Her feathers were beautifully decorated with sun and cloud like patterns, he could feel a cool breeze gently blowing around.

'You are welcome Harry." Atieno laughed at the his speechless state. "Now I must be going."

"Wait." Harry snapped out of his haze. "Won't the ministry cause problems for you? I mean, after that incident, they could find..." Harry trailed off, not wanting to mention that the collection the man possessed was highly illegal.

"One of the benefits," Atieno began in a jovial tone. "of owning a place in Knockturn Alley is that no one, and I mean no one at all, gives a damn. Let's you get away with a lot of things." He winked.

"I hope that we will meet again Mr. Potter." He said as Fawkes landed on his shoulder. "You too Albus. I hope we can meet up and have a chat about the old days, preferably without any disasters."

"I hope so too, old friend." Albus replied in a warm tone.

"Farewell, then" Atieno waved. "Oh, Mr. Potter, catch!" he threw something out of his pocket, and then disappeared in a flash of flames.

Harry looked at the item as he caught it. It was a small notebook, with the words 'Thunderbirds' written on it in fine calligraphy.

He wanted to open it and read right away, but the avian beside him gave an impatient trill. Harry suddenly felt as if she was demanding his attention, so he hugged her neck gently, and she enveloped him with her wings.

Fawkes flamed back to find everyone entranced by the beautiful scene before them, so he landed on his friend's shoulder, gently nudging him till the Headmaster smiled and began to pet him.

Fawkes began to sing a happy tune, turning the scene into something truly magical.

Harry palmed his wand as he remembered his trip to Ollivander's this morning.

The wandmaker had refused to hand the wand over when Albus went to collect it. So as soon as he felt that he could move, he had gone to the shop.

To say that he was astonished when Ollivander had present his wand would not be enough. He had stood there, his jaw hanging as he looked at it.

It was beautifully made, crafted in the traditional straight fashion. The body of the wand was carved with intricate patterns, runes to increase its longevity and potency. The hilt was inlaid with gold decorations, highlighting the cherry red even more. The end of the hilt was carved in the shape of a Phoenix head, the gold streaks clashing beautifully with red to create a rather vivid image of Fawkes. To top it off his name was styled on the hilt, giving it more 'owned' feel. It was the most delicate thing he had seen, but he had no doubt of the power it promised.

"14 ¾ inches, Fuyuzakura Cherry wood, Phoenix feather core. Unusually long, and surprisingly swishy." He remembered Ollivanders words as he took it in his hands. "The perfect representative of sheer, unadulterated power. It should also be very disloyal until fully mastered. But since the feather was willingly given..."

That was as far as the wandmaker got before the an oppressive, dominating presence was given off the wand, and Harry's own magic had flared to match it. The air had become heavy, the shop begun to shake. But Harry only had felt a comforting, cool breeze blow past, and had reveled in it.

Needless to say that after that incident, the wandmaker stressed even more upon being responsible with his wand, and mastering it's full potential as soon as possible. Harry had readily agreed, knowing how wise the advice was.

And now here he was, waiting for Minerva to call upon him for his first lesson. She had told him that her she had a lot of classes to take, so he wandered to the Great Lake.

"Harry!" He turned back to find Katie, and she beamed at him.

Katie. She was honestly a surprise, not unwelcome however. Harry had been surprised when she had helped Poppy to nurse him back to health, but he chalked it up to her attempting to repay his favor. He expected her to leave when he would recover. Just like every student in Hogwarts. They were all civil with him, but they all felt intimidated by the fact that he was Albus Dumbledore's heir. The fact that he was the bloody 'boy-who-lived' did not help either.

But Katie; Katie was a completely different story. She had stuck with him ever since he had gained his consciousness back. She would meet him for breakfast, and be off to her classes. And right afterwards, she would somehow find him and spend time with him, chatting away about everything and anything as she did her homework in his room. Harry had learned about her parents, their potions business, her love for flying. In turn, Harry had shared as much of his life as he could, barring the 'unimportant' details.

He had expected their impromptu friendship to break. She was intimidated by Albus and Minerva's presence, and would excuse herself. She was eleven and he was ten. Yet so far, he had enjoyed her company very much, and had began to think that he might even be wrong on this one occasion. And I'm happy that I am.

"Oi!" Katie snapped him out of his thoughts. "What's got your head in clouds?"

"Nothing much." Harry smiled. "Just taking the view in."

"It is quite something, isn't it?" She said as she sat down beside him. Harry nodded, watching the giant squid wave at him as it came up. He waved back.

"So, you're just wandering, or..." She trailed off.

"I just got my wand today." Harry held up his wand proudly, and her attention snapped to it.

"Oh my God!" She cried in awe as she made to touch it, but Harry quickly moved his hand away.

"Don't touch it." Harry warned. "It's a very volatile wand, and the wandmaker warned to not let anyone even near it."

She pouted, but agreed. "Can I see it?" She pleaded, and Harry held it close to her to examine.

"It's beautiful." She breathed as she looked it over again and again. "I have never seen a more gorgeous looking wand before."

"Thank you." Harry said. "I'm sure it's maker would be very pleased at the praise."

"Ollivander's?" She asked. Harry nodded.

He could see her itching to ask, but she wouldn't. Asking about one's wand was not a very polite thing to do in the wizarding world.

"Cherry with Phoenix core." Harry sighed as he informed her.

"Phoenix?" She titled her head cutely. "Fawkes?"

"Yes." He replied.

They fell silent, enjoying each other's company.

"You know," Katie pointed at the sky. "I think I'll never get used to that."

Harry followed her gaze, and found a breathtaking sight. Fawkes and his familiar soaring in the sky, chasing each other. The Thunderbird's plumage shone brilliantly in the light as she gave chase, and Fawkes left a fiery trail of gold and orange as he dived. They kept playing a game of cat and mice in the clouds, peaking through here and there, only to get lost in the white again.

"You know what?" He said as he gazed at the marvelous sight. "I don't think I ever will either."

A.N. A few things to mention.

Firstly, the chapters from here on will be bigger, as they will cover more of the timeline, even an entire year. So I will now be posting an update per six days.

Next, a couple things from the chapter. Snow Leopards can't roar. They hiss, when they are aggravated. In case you were wondering why I didn't use 'roar'.

The description of Thunderbirds has been taken from Pottermore. I have not changed anything, but I have added to it wherever I felt was necessary.

Finally, thanks to the 'guest' reviewer for pointing out that Harry's age is not clearly mentioned. I am working on fixing chapter 2 as you are reading this, and hopefully will be done by today. I hope more of you readers will help me by pointing out any problems you find. I really do appreciate it.

As usual, if you liked it, then let me know by favorite/ following this story. If not, let me know why with a review.

Till the next chapter. :)