Hello! Here is the next chapter. I wanted to answer a few people's questions but I don't know if fanfiction allows that anymore. First, I take all reviews and flames seriously. Reviews, because they make me happy and give tips. Flames, because they really make me think and help me change something to stop the story from going down hill.
Yea, yea, I can understand people have complaints about the new characters, but I really need to point something out to you. In the HP books, there are magical creatures. Why can't I write about them? This whole story is about making new friends and ending prejudice. My story would have no point if he didn't make a few friends from different species.
They will not be in love or hero worshipping to Harry. I don't know why people thought that, especially with the scene when Ash told her friends. They're giving him a chance because they themselves have been hurt and are not willing to sink as low as the people who hurt them. Please remember that.
I'm not saying this to yell at those who said stuff like this; I am just explaining it to you. I hope this clears up a few things. Also, about the grammar, I'm sorry if it's bad, but I don't have a beta. Well, on to the story.
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Harry followed Mushu silently. If anyone was shocked that there was a small dragon flying around, they didn't show it. Then again, the folks in Knockturn Alley must have seen a lot. Harry had already passed by a few shops that didn't look all that dangerous.
Mushu explained that Knockturn Alley was one of the poorer Alley's. That still didn't make it any less dangerous at night, but during the day it was free reign. A few stores caught Harry's eye and he wanted to make sure he entered a few before heading back to the Leaky Cauldron later.
"Well," Mushu said happily, "this is it!"
They stopped outside of a small shop that read "Muggle and Wizard Items."
"Muggle and Wizard Items?" Harry asked.
Mushu nodded. "Got to make a living, don't ya?"
Harry nodded and entered the store after Mushu. A young boy with purple hair and purple eyes looked up from behind a counter as he saw Mushu enter. "Hey, Mushu, this him?"
"Of course it's him," Mushu replied. "What, you think I'd choose the wrong guy?"
"Well," the boy had a large grin on his face, "it wouldn't be the first time."
Mushu slapped his forehead. "I do it one time and you guy's just can't let it go."
"Nope," the boy said with a chuckle. He turned to Harry. "So I suppose you're the guy that helped my friend Ash?"
Harry rubbed his head in embarrassment. "Well, she helped me out more than I helped her."
The boy grinned. "Yea, she's always a sucker when it comes to guys. I'm Jay by the way." He extended his hand.
Harry took it right away. "And I'm Harry."
Jay released his hand and said, "You don't mind if I change before taking you to the back, do you?"
"Um," Harry said, not understanding. Jay just grinned and transformed into his real form. Harry blinked as a fast purple blur covered Jay before he turned into some type of bug dragon.
"Much better," Jay said. "Gotta keep appearances when running the shop." Harry just nodded. He knew Ash's friends were demons but seeing them was much different than being told about them.
There was only one word that could describe it to Harry: Cool.
Jay led a curious Harry and a loud Mushu into the back. "Yo, Ash! Get your ass down here!"
There was a resounding smash from somewhere in the second story. Harry looked around, amazed at the sight. It was a large garage that had several cars on lifts, paint cans everywhere, and tools littering the floor. The walls were painted with different designs as well. The thing that hit Harry the most was the loud music. A few were from muggle bands that Harry knew about.
"Stray!" Ash called cheerfully; practically jumping on him. She wrapped an arm around his neck and dragged him over to the others. Five other people, Jay included, walked over to them. "This is Harry, guys."
Harry managed to get Ash's arm off of him and nodded politely at the others. They nodded as well. A few uncomfortable seconds went by before voices broke out. It was really Kaz who broke the silence; flying straight at his face and making him sneeze from her powder. Harry was grateful that she was worried about him but was even more grateful that it broke the tense silence.
Questions were asked by almost everyone. The only one that really stayed quiet was the female dragon, Switch. The others just informed him that she was usually quiet and always had a scowl on her face. The questions broke most of the tension but Harry wasn't sure what to make of the others.
They were kind, but still wary around him. Harry wondered if it was because human and demon relationships weren't going good. To break the ice, Harry said, "So how did you all get into cars and make this garage?"
This caused large smiles to appear on Jack, a large alligator demon, and Jay. Somehow, asking that question seemed to make everyone a bit warmer.
"See, it all started like this," Jack said, many teeth sparkling as he smiled. "We're all orphans, either because of some death or being kicked out. I was kicked out myself but that doesn't really matter. See, we all met in random places around the U.K. Since then, we all realized we had an interest in muggle vehicles. And what better way to make money and do the thing you like than opening up a garage?"
"That sounds interesting," Harry said. "It must have been some life, traveling around and meeting new people."
Ash nodded and Hop, the Kangaroo mouse that had a kind smile, said, "Interesting but hard. We had a lot of fun, but finding a place to live was always the hardest part. It was when we entered Knockturn Alley did they let us keep this old place."
Ash took over the story. "This place had to be the crappiest of all places in the world. Bugs, infestations of all kinds, dirt, and whatever else you could think of resided in here. Took months to clean the place. Of course, by then, we had enough money from doing random little jobs to start paying rent and buying tools."
Gadget, who had been quiet for most of the conversation, said, "And of course that's when things went down hill." He shot a glare at Jay and Ash who looked very guilty. "Those two," he jerked at Ash and Jay, "bought as many expensive tools as they could. Cost a small fortune and we were overrun with taxes."
Harry covered his moth to hide a smile. "So I guess things turned out alright, seeing how you still have the store."
Hop bounced on the balls of her feet. "Being indebted to quite a few people is something I never want to go through again."
Ash just smiled innocently. "Aw, it's all in the past, guys. Nothing like that will ever happen again."
"It better not," a voice growled.
Harry jumped, forgetting all about Switch. In the small time he had talked with the others, they had all warmed up and Harry could start to understand them a bit. But Switch, who had been silent and glared at them all, was still a mystery.
Mushu was also on her shoulder. He was playing with his long mustache and seemed used to her behavior. Harry guessed that she was the one Mushu looked after.
Switch stared at them all, an impatient expression on her face. "Gadget," she said, addressing the oldest, "when does your shipment come in?"
Gadget checked his watch. "In an hour," he told her. "You also needed to get some stuff, right?"
Switch nodded. Her eyes narrowed and she turned to Ash. "You're coming too, to help carry the stuff."
Ash pouted and stuck her tongue out at her. "Aw, no fun. Jack, you're coming too." She turned to Harry. "Wanna come along, Stray? We have a few places to go to, and you came to come shopping, right?"
Harry nodded. "Yea, but I don't want to be a bother…"
"No bother!" Jack exclaimed brightly. "We need another with us, especially with Switch in charge." Jack leaned closer and whispered, "She's pure evil."
Harry chuckled quietly and noticed Switch's amused expression before turning into a frown again. "You want to see evil?" Harry whispered. "My potions professor could give her scowl a run for her money."
Jack laughed as well. He scratched his belly with a large hand and got up. "I'll be ready in a sec," he told the others. "I need a drink first."
The others slowly dispersed, going back to whatever they were doing earlier. Jay went to work the shop with Hop while Gadget worked on the cars. Harry noticed Switch and Ash walk upstairs, talking quietly.
"Hey, hu…Harry," Gadget called. Harry looked over, well aware of what he was going to say. "Come over here for a second."
- - - - - - - - - - - -
"So what do you think?" Ash asked, grabbing some money while Switch did the same.
Switch snorted. "He's weak. I can smell his magic but it's worth nothing if he can't control it properly."
Ash shrugged. "Do you think he realizes he was set up to come shopping with us?"
"No," Switch said immediately. "He's a male, they're always dense."
Ash giggled. "So, Switch, are you curious?"
Switch threw her an annoyed look. "No."
"Liar," Ash sang. "You know, his hair grew."
Switch looked amused. "And how do you know that?"
Ash rolled her eyes. "When I met him, his hair wasn't even to his shoulders, now it reaches his back!"
"Whatever… Did you see his clothes?"
"Yea? What about them?"
"I want to burn them," Switch informed. "Even we had better clothes than that when we lived off the streets."
Ash shrugged. "We could take him to meet Andy."
Switch licked her lips in thought. "Sure, I needed to get a new shirt anyways."
Ash smiled brightly and walked down, Switch behind her. She looked around and noticed Harry working on a little thing as Gadget watched. They blinked in surprise as the thing Harry was working on gave a roar of life.
Gadget grabbed it quickly and held up to his face, trying to figure out how it was working. "How did you fix it?"
Harry shrugged. "Two wires weren't hooked in the right way. It was nothing big."
Switch snorted, alerting the two. "I thought you were the master mechanic?" she sneered.
Gadget groaned. "Don't start with me."
"Why not?' Switch challenged, her ears rising a bit.
Gadget grabbed a piece of paper off the work bench and flicked it around in front of her face. Switch, narrowing her eyes, grabbed the offending piece of paper. It was a picture of a skull with acid dripping around it. It was green with black shadows.
Impressed, Switch said, "You finally came up with a good picture for the bike?"
Gadget, who was a little embarrassed, hid it well and said, "No, Harry did."
Switch glanced at the drawing and an embarrassed looking Harry. She said nothing more.
"C'mon," Ash called, "let's get going."
Mushu flew off Switch's shoulder and landed next to Kaz. Both were going to stay. Harry stood up. "Er, do you mind if I change as well?"
"Huh?" Ash asked.
Switch rolled her eyes. "You said he could transform, remember?"
"Oh yea!"
Harry fidgeted as Jack, Ash and Switch watched him. He took off his shoes and glasses and concentrated and felt himself transform. He sighed as he noticed his ripped clothes.
Ash giggled. "You don't have the right clothes like we do. Don't worry; we'll take you to get some decent clothes."
Harry blushed. It wasn't his fault the Dursley's didn't give him some decent clothes. Not that he would tell them that, but he was eager to finally get some real clothes.
Switch came up to him, a serious look on her face. Harry stared back into her eyes. Her ear cocked, curious, before returning to normal. Her face resumed the usual scowl she always wore.
"You want to purchase several wizard things, right?"
"Yes."
"Then transform half way."
Harry blinked. "How come?"
Switch sighed. Harry couldn't blame her. He was pretty dense sometimes. "It's illegal to sell non-humans wizard things. At least halfway in Knockturn Alley, you can get stuff with both money and with a threatening look."
Harry was about to object but remembered that if he wanted some darker things, he couldn't play nice. He nodded before concentrating on what he wanted to look like. He imagined himself with only clawed feet, hands, and tail. He felt the prickling sensation and looked at the others.
Ash nodded. "It worked," she told him.
Switch peered at him. "Does anyone know what you look like?"
"A few people would know about my hair," he said truthfully, "but that's because it had a growth spurt or something. No one else knows what I look like transformed." Harry didn't need to say anything about Voldemort because there was no way he could be in Knockturn Alley without alerting someone.
Switch 'hmmed' before grabbing Harry's hair before taking a swipe at it with her claw.
"Hey!" Harry barked, taking a few steps back and glaring. "What was that for?"
"You don't want anyone following you and that won't be possible if you don't change your appearance," Switch growled.
Harry growled back as well. "You could have warned me."
Jack laughed a bit. "Switch never warns anyone. Sorry, Harry, but if you want a warning, you're at the wrong place."
Harry sighed and felt his hair. A large chunk was out and before he could say anything else, Switch grabbed some more hair. "Stay still," she ordered. "I won't ruin in it."
Harry still glared but nodded nonetheless. A few quick swipes had Harry's hair shorter than his shoulders. "Much better," Switch said approvingly.
Harry's brow twitched and a giggling Ash handed him a piece of glass. He looked at his reflection and couldn't help but grin. "Four different hairstyles in one day," he said amused. "I like this one."
His hair was back to being messy and out of control. It was probably only half an inch shorter than it originally was before all the haircuts but had more of a feral look to it.
"It needs a bit more," Jack said thoughtfully.
"You're right!" Ash bounded up to him and said, "Concentrate your magic on my fingers."
"Err…" Before Harry could say more, she rubbed her hand through his hair. He felt that same prickling sensation and felt his hair. When he didn't feel anything, he grabbed the glass once more and stared. "Green streaks?" he questioned.
Ash shrugged. "Green fits you. Now you have an almost complete disguise."
"Almost?" Harry asked.
"Yep!" Ash said happily. "We need to go clothes shopping but I think we should get our supplies first, right?"
Harry nodded. "I'm ready to go."
"Not yet." Ash handed him a black bandana. "I got you a new one since the other one got ruined."
"You didn't have to."
Ash just shrugged and handed it over to him. Harry tied it around his forehead.
"Now we're ready to go," Jack said, following Switch.
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Borgin and Burkes was a shop a shop with a reputation. If you wanted to shop in here, you needed not only money, but the brains. Borgin got all kinds in his shop and always made a good amount of gold. He especially loved werewolves and vampires as customers. They were always willing to pay any amount for some blood or wolfsbaine.
He had gotten almost every kind in his shop that had some level of intelligence but it came to a surprise when four demons entered his shop. Borgin only just managed to hide his greedy grin before the wolf saw him. Oh, he would be making some good money today.
Harry scoped the shop, looking for anything interesting. The look on Borgin's face didn't go unnoticed. The man thought they were loaded and planned on making some good deals. Well, if he wanted a deal, he would have to show Harry the best he had to offer.
Harry walked up to the man. "I'm looking for something a bit more…advance. You wouldn't happen to have anything like that, would you?" Harry was well aware of the secret storage room Borgin had.
Borgin smirked. "And what if I do? Most are very expensive and only go to those with a wand."
Harry allowed two fangs to poke through. It took almost half an hour for Switch and Ash to beat it in to him on how he should act. "My gold is as good as anyone else's. Also, I already have a wand. How it came into my possession is none of your concern."
"Well, well," Borgin rubbed his hands together, "already breaking the law, are we? No matter, demon, I know how your kind works." Harry noticed the others growl at this. "Come along to my storage room. Anyone else interested in purchasing some…advance books?"
Switch growled at the man, her eyes glowing. "We shall wait out here."
Borgin narrowed his eyes. "I have special wards that don't allow thieves to exit this shop."
"They won't steal, Borgin," Harry snarled. "Now show me to this room, or I'll take my business elsewhere."
Borgin opened a door behind the counter and beckoned Harry in after entering it himself. Following the man down, Harry wondered how many dark wizards had entered this room and bought items.
"Go ahead and look around," Borgin offered, his eyes following Harry's every move.
Harry just nodded and made his way towards some books. Trinkets lay everywhere, and large swords and knives were hung on the wall. He ignored them for now and grabbed a random book. He put it aside. It was written in some unknown language and Harry continued with the search.
In the next five minutes, he pick out, The Forbidden and Unforbidden, Dark Rituals, The Unforgivable's and The Theory Behind It, Magical Creatures and their Weaknesses, and several books on Occlumency. All kinds of Dark Hex and Curse books were added as well.
He put them in a small pile and continued to look around a bit. He wanted to take his time so he didn't miss anything important. His slow search rewarded him with two books each on dragons and demons. One book, however, almost had him laughing. It was called, 'Potions for Dummies.' He added the book and stared at the weapons.
Personally, he wasn't sure what he should get. Making his way over to the knives, he put the books on a random chair. He saw knives made out of solid gold, others with fire and even a few that had an invisible blade. Ignoring those, since Harry had no use for flashy weapons, he looked into a glass case.
He saw a small metal circle with points on the end. The sign called them shuriken and were ten for a total of twelve galleons. Harry purchased twenty and a small pouch to hold them on his waist. These would be much better than throwing knives, allowing him to throw more than one. He also purchased a book on how to use the weapons and hopefully, with practice, Harry would be able to aim with deadly accuracy.
Harry's eyes wandered over a curved dagger. It wasn't overly large, and would be easy to hide. He purchased it as well, along with a few smaller daggers. He didn't really see anything else, and Borgin, noticing that, said quickly, "I can show you a few other books as well. I have a potions book on poisons and even Veritaserum."
Harry's eyes widened at that but decided to play a few cards of his own. "Sounds interesting, but do you have ingredients that goes with this book?" What was the point of buying a potions book if you had no ingredients?
Borgin smiled greedily. "Of course, sir." He led Harry to another case. "I'm afraid you'll need more than just an ordinary cauldron for some potions. You'll have to buy cauldrons elsewhere since I don't have any. However, I do have some very interesting ingredients."
Harry barely managed to hide a gasp. Vampire and werewolf fangs in small bags lay in a case. Small vials of gryphon blood, unicorn blood and even phoenix blood glittered in the light. Harry saw the claws of dementor and shuddered to think how those had been acquired. A few other illegal items were in the case and Harry purchased most of them but left the dementor claws alone.
The phials with blood and crushed powder were put into a small box so they would break. Roots, fangs, and even small wings were put into a separate bag. That had taken a good half hour to sort out. Harry wanted to make sure he only bought things he needed.
"You'll have to pay down here," Borgin told him as he put a shrinking spell onto everything. "I can't have anyone else knowing about these items. Got it, demon?"
Harry narrowed his eyes but said nothing. Instead, he saw two other books that caught his eye. The first one was, 'You and Your Weapon.' It was about molding your magic and a personal item into a weapon that fitted you. The last one Harry nearly gasped.
He was pretty sure it was the one Dobby was talking about. 'Magic, Control and Elements.' Harry looked at the book closely. It was huge, and had a worn out look to it.
"I'll take those two as well," Harry said.
Borgin just grunted and added them as well. "Anything else that caught your eye?"
Harry thought about it. The man was greedy and was probably willing to sell him just about anything. He noticed the special bag Harry owned and knew only the richest carried those around. Harry thought about it a bit longer before he remembered what Malfoy had been looking at in his second year. Malfoy would probably be back to take it and Harry didn't want the spoiled brat to have anything that could harm him or his friends.
"I'll take that Hand of Glory you have upstairs as well," Harry said.
Borgin nodded. "I'll go grab it. You may continue to look some more. Anything else you see, add it to the stack. I'll know if you stole anything."
Harry snorted. "Demons have a sense of honor as well, Mr. Borgin. Everything will be paid for."
Borgin sneered but left. Harry scowled and looked for anything interesting. He grabbed a few holsters for his daggers and decided to buy one for his wand elsewhere. For books, he added 'The Making of Wands,' and a really long book on the 'Theory of Magic,' that would prove useful later on.
He looked around for anything that had to do with Apparation but was disappointed when he saw nothing on the subject. A few more books were added and even 'Pureblood Etiquette' was added. Harry thought he could use that for later to make Malfoy look like a fool. Finally, Harry added one last potion's book, 'Deadly Potion's with Basilisk Blood and Poison.' He bought ten vials that were made to hold basilisk poison.
Basilisk poison was very strong and Harry didn't want to know how many spells were put on those vials. He looked around again. Perhaps, in time, when he was alone and had no one waiting for him, he would come back later to look at more of the items.
Borgin came back down and stared at his extras and rang it up. Harry smirked as he stared at the last potions book, muttering about how Basilisks were extinct. Just because one was dead didn't mean all the poison was gone.
Borgin stared at the Potions for Dummies and said, "Can you even read this?"
Harry stared at it. "Yes, can't you?"
Borgin shook his head. "I've been trying to sell this thing for years but no one bought it since they can't read it. What's it say?"
"Potions for Dummies," Harry replied honestly.
Borgin's eyes widened. "That's what it is?" He looked very greedy all of a sudden. "Of course, I'm sure it's a very special book. Sixteen galleons."
Harry smirked. "For this piece of rubbish? Not even worth eight galleons."
"Thirteen galleons."
Harry snorted. "Ten galleons. Don't forget about all my other purchases."
Borgin muttered something and said, "Fine, ten galleons it is."
Harry smiled victoriously and paid the grand total. It was well over 3,000 galleons and 200 sickles. Grabbing the bags, Harry made his way to the exit, following Borgin. He saw Switch and Ash waiting for him.
"Got everything?" Ash asked.
"Yep," Harry said cheerfully. "Where's Jack?"
Switch, who had been resting against the wall, said, "He went to go get a few things for his room."
They walked out of the store and Harry, who just realized that Hedwig was still at the Garage, said, "Mushu said something about Hedwig getting hurt. She's ok, right?"
Ash nodded. "Some crazy wanker attacked her with a few spells. Her wing was damaged so we put her in our medic room. Her wing is fine, thanks to Hop, and we managed to beat up the guy pretty good."
"Do you know who hurt her?" Harry asked, his hands forming into a fist.
"Sorry, Stray," Ash said. "He got out of there pretty fast."
Harry narrowed his eyes. How dare someone hurt Hedwig?! "She's alright, right? I mean, can she fly?"
"Yep," Ash replied cheerfully. "You can go get her when you come back to the garage."
Harry nodded and was about to say something before Jack walked up to them. "Hey, Switch, how much time do we have left before we need to go pick up Gadget's shipment?"
Switch checked her own watch. "No time," she said coldly. "You can say hi to your girlfriend later."
Jack grumbled. "She's not my girlfriend…"
Ash threw an arm around the large alligator. "That's so cute. You still haven't managed to work up the courage to ask her out yet."
"It's not like that!" Jack yelled.
Harry laughed and Switch ignored them all as she led them farther down the Alley. They stopped in front of a solid wall with a single door on it.
"Right," Switch said, turning to look at them. "This store leads into a muggle clothing shop called Hot Topic. It's run by demons and a few humans. Just don't let the humans know what we are, and you'll be fine." She turned to address Harry and said, "You and Ash can hang out in here while Jack and I get Gadget's shipment next door."
Harry tilted his head. "Will we be in muggle London?"
Ash nodded. "Yep, Gadget ordered several packages of muggle cough medicine." When Harry lifted a brow, she continued. "There's a chemical in it that Gadget fiddles with and uses it to give our own vehicles more power."
Harry snorted, thinking about Mr. Weasely.
They entered through the back and a female cat demon came up to them. "Hey Ash," she greeted happily. She had black ears and a tail that was dyed pink at the tips. She smiled brightly at Ash but turned to look at Harry. "Oooh, who's your cute friend?"
Harry blushed. "I'm Harry."
She flicked her tail back and forth, moving closer to Harry who moved closer to Switch. "My name is Lisa, but you can call me Liz."
Harry nodded. "Nice to meet you."
She beamed before her nose suddenly twitched. "Uhg, that drunk, Nick, is back."
Switch frowned. "Didn't you fire him?"
Liz shook her head. "Andy kept him."
Jack scowled. "Even after he… you know…"
Harry, who had no idea what they were talking about, looked at some of the clothes in the back. They were…interesting. Most were black but had a few dark reds and greens. There were several bracelets and chains but before he could get a closer look, Jack brought him out of his thoughts.
"Well, Switch and I need to go pick up Gadget's shipment. Ash and Harry want to buy a few clothes." They looked Harry up and down and Harry scowled darkly at them.
Jack and Switch blurred suddenly and two humans stood in their place. Harry already knew demons could camouflage themselves so humans wouldn't notice and even though he had seen Jay do it, it still amazed him
Jack was tall with green hair running everywhere. He was wearing the same clothes and with the lack of scales he didn't look much different.
Switch still had the same clothes on and she had a scowl in place. Her hair was spiked up in the back and she had several earrings along with bracelets. "We'll be back," she said calmly, leaving them.
When both Jack and Switch were gone, Ash turned to Harry. She smirked. "Is that a blush, Stray?" Harry turned his face away as he felt it heat up. "It is!" Ash crowed.
Harry groaned as Liz and Ash tried to get a look at his face. "Enough of that," Ash said happily. "Let's get you a whole new wardrobe."
Before Harry could say anything, both girls grabbed him and put him on a small stool and started measuring him while grabbing different shirts.
Tagger watched this all, laughing as Harry was bombarded with different shirts and pants. "They're gonna drown you with clothes if they don't watch it," Tagger said, grin on place.
Harry, who had wanted to get new clothes, still wasn't ready for this. When Liz started suggesting chains and piercings, Harry quickly cut in. "No way! No piercings for me, and I don't want any chains on my clothes."
The girls pouted. "You'll have to turn human first," Liz informed him. When any horns or tails burst through the material, it will close around making it the right size. Everytime you want to go back to your normal form, you won't even get any rips, and they'll just automatically form into it."
Harry nodded. "Thanks, Liz." He entered the dressing room and started to try on different clothes. The girls were considerate enough to give him normal clothes like blue jeans and red or blue shirts. Harry must have tried on twenty different pairs of pants, twelve shirts, fourteen long sleeve shirts, three jackets, and five pairs of shoes.
Ash giggled as Harry stepped out of the room. A little bit in the way, Harry started joking around as well and tried on some crazy stuff that he would have never worn before. Harry was pretty sure if the Dursley's took one look at him, they would have thrown him out of the house as fast as possible. Well, if he still lived with them.
Harry was now dressed in black pants with a black shirt and a red undershirt. The shirt said 'rebel' on it in white. He had a pair of black boots on as well. He grinned at the girls as they tried to get all kinds of necklaces and earrings on him but he just shrugged them off.
"Wow, Harry," Liz said, grabbing his hand. "This is a weird bracelet." She was staring at the manacle and Harry jerked it away from her.
"Yea," Harry said a little coldly, "it kinda sticks to me."
Ash stared at him and he knew what she was thinking. 'You got another one!? I leave you for five minutes and you get caught?'
Liz just shrugged and started packaging a few clothes for him. They, meaning Ash and Liz, decided Harry would get three black pants, four blue pants, ten shirts, three pairs of shoes, two pairs of boots and a black trench coat.
Harry wasn't too enthusiastic about the trench coat but when Ash said it would be easy to hide his weapons in, he agreed. They even managed to grab two goggles. One was blue while the other was green. Both had forced it onto his forehead and Harry half heartedly fought back.
He didn't know what to think but the girls forced him to buy it. After remembering he had wanted some goggles in the first place, he purchased them without a second thought. The good thing about them was that they allowed him to see clearly while the outside was just blue or green.
Harry started fiddling with his necklace when Ash came up to. She peered at the emerald. "That's a pretty necklace. Does it mean anything?"
Harry shrugged. "I found it in my family vault today." He smiled bitterly. "I just know it was from Samuel Potter but I don't know what he is to me. Great uncle, grandfather… who knows? I don't know. I didn't even know I had a family vault until today."
Ash stared at him quietly. "You really didn't know anything about the wizarding world, did you?"
Harry shook his head. "Not a thing," he said truthfully. "My Aunt and Uncle knew but they, err, tried to beat the freakishness out of me."
Ash folded her ears against her head in anger.
Harry yawned, letting the necklace fall out of his hand and stared at the manacle. "Either way, I'm a prisoner in both worlds."
Ash and Liz just stared at him. Liz, who was half human herself, didn't care if Harry was human. In fact, she found the situation funny.
"Well," Ash said seriously, "forget those two worlds." She stuck her hand out like down in the sewers. "Welcome to the demon world, Harry Potter."
Harry stuck out his hand and shook hers.
"Hrrry Pottter," a slurred voice said. They all turned and saw a bull dog demon enter.
"Dammit, Nick," Liz hissed. "You're drunk again, and this is your shift."
Nick ignored her and stared at Harry, his stance wobbly and his eyes loosing their focus. "E's just a damn huuumannn." Nick walked over slowly. "Shoulda coulda died like the rest. Stoopid huuumman."
Harry glared at the drunk. "What do you want?" he growled.
Nick shook his head, almost falling over. "I hate humans!" he roared, tackling Harry to the ground. Harry, who wasn't expecting that, fell to the ground with an undignified grunt. Nick started strangling him.
"Get off of him!" Ash and Liz tried pulling him off but Nick was very heavy. Harry clawed at the arms. Quickly transforming, he hissed at Nick before letting his long tongue hit Nick in the eyes.
"Uhg." Nick rubbed at his eyes and Harry kicked his off. He stood up quickly and spread his wings, snarling at Nick. He noticed Tagger growling as well. Instinct was kicking in and instinct was telling Harry to survive, no matter what the cost.
They circled each other and Nick seemed to be a little less drunk. They growled at each other and Ash and Liz back off.
"Stuupod huuuman," Nick said slowly. His grammar was still as horrible as ever.
"Fool," Harry growled.
Nick burped and Harry scrunched up his face as the awful smell entered his nostrils. "Disgusting fool," Harry corrected himself.
Nick barked loudly and rushed at Harry. Harry just side stepped the angry demon. "Stoooop moovin."
"Stop making a fool of yourself." Harry sighed. "This is why I can't stand prejudice; it makes people do stupid things."
Nick shook his head and saw Liz and grabbed her. "Stoopid huuuman luver." He started to squeeze her and both Ash and Harry jumped on him.
"Release her!" Harry yelled and dug his claws into Nicks head. "Don't hurt my friends!" Harry tried to scratch and bite but the thing about a bull dog is that they had a lot of fat that protected them. Harry growled angrily. He shuddered as he felt his magic start to respond.
His eyes widened as he felt it prickling up his arms. "No! Nick, let go! I don't want it to hurt you!"
Ash, who didn't like the tone of Harry's voice, let go, and Liz just managed to get out of Nick's hold as he screamed in pain. Harry watched in horror as Nick lit up like a light bulb and screamed as electricity ran throughout his body. It lasted a full minute before it stopped and Harry could only watch as Nick slumped to the ground.
They were silent for a few moments but the whole time Harry kept thinking, "Stop, stop, stop, no more danger. Stop, stop…"
"Is he…dead?" Liz asked, looking closer while massaging her neck.
Harry took one look at her neck and crushed all the guilt he was feeling. Nick hurt his friend, and he deserved it. Besides, if Harry couldn't handle this, how could he face Voldemort and the Death Eaters?
Harry sighed. "No," he said finally, "just knocked out."
"Yea, but I don't think he'll be moving anytime soon," Ash said with disgust. She sighed and threw some plastic bags over Nick to cover him up.
Liz sighed as well. "We are so lucky silencing charms were added after that night playing truth or dare."
Ash smiled. "Oh yea…"
Harry snorted. He gave Nick one last look before heading over to his packages. Liz and Ash gave him some room. Harry grabbed his new dagger and slipped it in his boot, ready to be pulled out at any time. He longed to try that new book on making your own weapon but had to wait. The dagger would do for now. He was angry he hadn't put it on earlier. Also, the fact that he had his wand was still a good thought.
He sighed as he put the small desk from his father's vault and the paper's Griphook gave him in the bags.
"Um, Harry," Liz said uncertainly. "I'm really sorry about what just happened. You can have all the clothes for free and…" She started to say more but Harry cut her off.
"No need for that. I won't hold the whole store responsible for this idiot." He jerked his head at Nick who still twitched occasionally. "Although, I wouldn't mind looking at those inside pockets you were talking about."
Liz grinned at that and proceeded to show Harry all the different sizes and colors. They were square pieces of cloth with a zipper. Just press them against the clothing you want and it'll immediately sew itself on. Harry planned on putting these in his pants so he could put a potions vial or wand in case he was ever caught. They had anti-summoning charms on them so that was a bonus.
Harry got enough for all his pants and quite a few for his trench coat. Even he, who had no sense of fashion, had to admit it looked nice. It wasn't full of chains, metal duds or anything else; just a plain, black trench coat.
They amused themselves by burning Dudley's old clothes and watched the smoke hover over Nick. Their amusement didn't last that long.
Another five minutes passed in silence since they didn't have much to say and Harry just doodled with a spare pen and scrap of paper. Liz came up to him. "You draw?" she asked.
Harry shrugged. "Not really…"
"Do too!" Tagger called but Harry ignored him.
"Want a sketchbook?" Liz asked.
"Huh?"
Liz giggled and her tail twitched. "A sketchbook. I have like five extras and a thousand pencils. I help make designs for some shirts and often draw."
"Err, uh…hmm." Harry sighed and finally nodded.
Liz grinned. "Ash!" she yelled. "Go get two of my blank sketchbooks, about a dozen pencils and a pencil sharpener."
"Got it!" Ash yelled back and hurried to another part of the shop, stepping past Nick carefully. She came back a minute later and handed them to Harry. "Come up with any pictures like the one you did earlier and Gadget just make you his personal assistant when it comes to making logos for bikes or cars."
Harry shrugged, grinning. He tossed Liz five galleons and checked his watch. His pocket watch was chained to his pants, much to the insistence of the two girls. "Its 10:40, shouldn't the other two be back?"
As if spurred on by those words, Switch and Jack entered the room carrying a few boxes.
"Alright, you guys got it," Ash said brightly.
Jack grinned and noticed Nick. "What happened to him?"
Harry just grinned and exchanged looks with Ash and Liz. "Nothin'…" they answered.
Ash smiled at Switch but stopped when she saw her expression. "Switch, what's wrong?"
Switch had lost her scowl and was instead looking a bit pale. "Crystal's back."
Ash's jaw dropped. "Are you serious?" Switch nodded. Ash swore. "Well, what does she want?"
Switch shrugged. "I need to meet her at that college down the road. She teaches there."
"Figure's," Ash muttered. "Nothing like last time, right?"
Switch returned her scowl. "No. It's about…" She suddenly remembered Harry and Jack were there. "You two wanna come over to a college real quick?"
Jack shrugged. Harry, who heard the whole exchanged, nodded but said, "Switch, are you ok? Is this Crystal person a threat to you?"
Switch stood up straight, looking offended. "No one is a threat to me," she growled.
Harry shot her a look but stood up to follow her. They left all their stuff in the store and stayed in human form. Harry, who was already in human form, didn't have to change back, but Ash was having trouble deciding if she should wrap her tail around her waist like a belt or just get rid of it altogether.
The college, Harry found out, was a good ten minutes away if you ran. Harry was breathless by the time they even reached the school and was a little annoyed that he was so out of shape. That would have to be fixed.
The college was called Luxford University, and, according to Jack, was an Art school for all kinds. Whether it is music, painting, auto, poetic, or anything of the sort, all were taught at the large school. They entered it quietly and Harry followed Jack as he motioned to him.
They passed by several classrooms teaching the violin or painting. Harry stared at them all in awe. His fingers longed to touch the paint brushes or the colored pencils and just sit there and be normal. He didn't want to worry about a war. He sighed and knew it could never be true. He was to be a part of this war. He promised this to himself and he couldn't back out.
Switch sighed and stopped. "Ok, you guys can stay here or look around. I'll be back in a few minutes." She entered a classroom and shut it.
Harry looked at Ash. "Is she going to be ok?"
Ash nodded. "Just some issues with… an old friend."
Harry didn't buy it but said nothing as Jack and Ash walked off, looking around. Harry sighed and started walking as well. A loud bell rang throughout the school and a large mass of kids came out, pushing against Harry. Harry, who tried to fight the crowd, was pushed into a classroom.
Harry looked around and blushed as several people stared at him. They were probably in their twenties and Harry's short height made him look younger than he really was. He was in an art classroom and saw students take out portraits or drawings.
"Are you lost, kid?" a girl asked him. Harry looked at the speaker and noticed she was at least nineteen and had long blond hair and brown eyes.
Harry shook his head and grinned shyly. "No, I was just checking out the college. I was thinking about coming here after high school."
The girl grinned. "Well, this is the summer program so you're welcome to take a seat and try painting or something. The teacher," she pointed to a young woman with red hair and icy blue eyes, "is that woman over there."
As if hearing those words, the teacher came over. "Is there a problem?" she asked.
Harry shook his head. "No, ma'am. I was just looking around the college and kind of got pushed into the classroom with all the other students."
"Well, like Jennifer said, this is the summer program so you can take a seat. You're awfully young to be looking at colleges."
Harry scowled and tried to make himself look bigger. "I'm fifteen."
The woman smiled but it looked like her eyes were made of ice. "Well, go ahead and sit. Maybe in a few years you could come."
Harry nodded and blushed a bit when Jennifer led him over to a spare spot next to her. He really wanted to get out of there but didn't want to drag anymore attention to himself. Sighing, he grabbed a blank piece of paper and a pencil. Shrugging, he started to draw. After all, wasn't he going to start, especially since Liz gave him those sketchbooks?
Ten minutes passed by before Harry started to wonder if the others were ok. He was enjoying himself, but he didn't want the others to think he ditched them. Jennifer looked over at his drawing.
"That's really cool," she told him. "I wish I could do realistic drawings like that."
Harry glanced at his drawing. It was a picture of Hedwig, Errol, and a few other owls sitting on his bed with an annoyed look. They were watching Pig fly around. It wasn't the best looking drawing, but a few parts were detailed.
Harry blushed, happy that someone liked his drawing. Tagger was sitting on is shoulder, whispering words of encouragement in his ear. "Thanks," he muttered.
Jennifer looked into his eyes and smirked. "Interesting contacts."
Harry blinked. Contacts? His eyes widened. "Shoot, I forgot my eyes were still slits. At least she's a muggle. I'll have to fix them later."
Harry grinned and was about to say something but the door burst open and Switch walked in. Her eyes narrowed at the teacher but when she noticed Harry, she paled slightly. The teacher smiled at her. "Hello--"
"Crystal," Switch said, interrupting her.
Harry's eyes widened. This was who Switch wanted to talk to? He had been in the same room with Crystal the entire time! Harry watched as Crystal told the class to keep working and exited the room, Switch following her and not once glancing at Harry.
"Do you know that girl?" Jennifer whispered.
Harry nodded. "Yea, she's a friend of mine. I don't know what she wants with the teacher, though."
Jennifer shrugged and started working again. She glanced at Harry after a few moments. "You know, I have a few pamphlets about the school. You can have them if you ever decide to come here for college."
Harry grinned shyly. "Really? I'd like to look at them."
……………………………………………………………………………………………...
"What were you doing with him?" Switch growled as she and crystal entered an empty classroom. She transformed back to normal.
Crystal grinned coldly and transformed as well. A long, pale blue dragon stood in crystal's place. She breathed out a little bit and ice came out of her mouth, falling to the ground like snow.
"I was just watching him." Crystal stared at the angry Switch. "But what are you doing with him?"
Switch glared. "He helped Ash and came to the garage for a visit. We had stuff to get and he tagged along."
Crystal laughed coldly. "Is that all?"
"Yes, Crystal," Switch said just as coldly, "that's all."
Crystal waved a long, furry tail. Instead of scales at the end, she had dark blue fur. "Have you heard back from the clan?"
"You know I have no contact with them!" Switch growled, stepping back.
Crystal snorted. "You always were a fool, little sister." Switch bared her teeth. "You're entering human affairs."
"That pathetic Lord is spreading to the demons as well," Switch said boldly. She blinked before sighing. "He has the Buta Clan under his control."
Crystal met Switch's eyes in shock. "How do you know of this?" she said harshly.
Switch shrugged. "I'm not as out of contact as you think."
They glared at each other for a moment.
"This isn't why I came," Crystal said softly.
"How long have you been in town?"
Crystal shrugged this time. "Five months." She smiled. "You never were good when it came to tracking or knowing when you were being watched."
Switch scowled. "Yea, well, what do you want?"
Crystal yawned. "This is so troublesome, but I saw something."
"You saw something?" Switch repeated, deadpan.
"You know what I mean," Crystal growled angrily.
"Damn you and your seer abilities," Switch snarled. "I'm not doing anything this time." She paced for a few minutes. "Not like last time."
"That was a mistake."
"They kicked me out!" Switch roared. She panted for a minute, her ears folded tightly against her head. "You knew the truth, but you let them…"
"I know," Crystal said firmly. "This is big, I need to tell you."
"Who does it involve this time?" Switch grounded out, her teeth rubbing against each other.
"That human."
Switch snorted before her eyes widened in recognition. "You were the one who told Ash about that stupid river of wine legend."
"Yes," said Crystal.
"You knew they would meet." Crystal nodded. "So…what's this vision?"
Crystal shrugged. "One death, one life."
Switch groaned. "It's always like that."
"Unfortunately," Crystal muttered. "Look, we both hate the clan, but it also has to do with them."
"How so?" snapped Switch.
"I saw Stoneclaw in the vision as well."
"Stoneclaw is a cast out as well!"
"Not in the vision!"
They glared at each other, sister rivalries exceeding into more than just dislike.
"Just tell me the damn vision."
This time Crystal's face softened. "He will paint them."
"The human?" Switch questioned.
"Yes," Crystal nodded, "Harry."
Switch scowled. "He a big deal then?"
"You know he has a big part in this war," Crystal said, a hard steel entering her voice. "That is why you are helping him. That is also why you know certain demon clans are bowing to the man called Voldemort."
Switch snorted.
"He's stronger than you realize," Crystal barked. "Demons and humans are practically balanced! Stop being a hypocrite already. You yourself say you hate those who are prejudice, but are prejudice yourself!"
Switch looked away.
"Why are you back?" she asked at last. "For real?"
"Can't I see my baby sister?" Crystal said in a false cheery voice. Switch scowled. "Because," she said slowly, "you and Harry were in the vision. You were both in Japan, fighting a war with the clan."
Switch kicked a chair. "We're done here," she said.
"I'll be here when you decide to talk," Crystal said.
Switch ripped open the door after they both transformed into humans.
"Hey!" Crystal called and Switch paused. "Remember, stop being a hypocrite."
Switch sighed but said nothing more. She walked past several hallway's and saw Ash and Jack standing next to the human.
"Switch," Harry called as he saw her. "Are you ok? That girl didn't say anything that hurt you, right?"
Switch said nothing. Why did this human care? They barely knew each other. Hell, they only knew each other for an hour and all she did was scowl or glare. She stared at him.
"Are you sure you're ok?" Harry pressed, his eyes full of concern.
Switch snorted. Figures she would make friends with a human of all things. A human…
"I'm fine," she said at last. "Let's go."
The human still looked at her with worried eyes but smiled brightly at her. She followed the hu…Harry out. Yep, figures she would make friends with the strangest people. She sighed, thinking of her stupid sister. Damn seers.
……………………………………………………………………………………………...
They had walked around a bit when Switch mentioned Harry should get a tattoo. Of course, Harry objected right away but when Switch started going into full detail, Harry thought they might help. They wouldn't be going to any tattoo parlor, but a magical one. It was one that Switch herself went to get a tattoo of her spirit animal. She explained they helped protected him and even gave him the sense of piece.
"They can even get rid of other unwanted tattoos," Switch had said to him.
Harry seriously thought about it before deciding to try it. It was his skin, after all, and if they could help him, since they had a few magical properties, he was willing to get them.
They were back in Knockturn Alley when they entered a small shop with graffiti and all kinds of pictures of all types of tattoos on the walls. Switch whistled and a large, muscular man came out.
"Back again?" he growled to Switch.
Switch shook her head. "Harry will be getting the special."
The man narrowed his eyes at Harry. "I know you three got in contact with yur inner animal, but this guy? I'm not so sure."
Harry narrowed his eyes. "I'm in contact with him," Harry growled back. "Switch explained the consequences and I'm willing to take them."
The man grunted and instructed Harry to take off his shirt. Harry did so, along with his necklace, and laid it aside. The large man, Greg, started to pour an oily substance on his back. "Most tattoos like these show up on your back," he said gruffly. "Go ahead and relax. The liquid will allow a form to appear and then my special ink will take over."
Harry was lying down on his stomach and just nodded an affirmative. Forty minutes went by but Harry barely noticed it. In fact, he almost fell asleep. The ink being carved into his skin didn't hurt as much as he expected and the only reason he didn't go past a small doze was because he didn't want to have another interaction with Voldemort.
When Greg was done, he slapped Harry hard on the back to wake him up. Harry yelped and almost fell off the table. The others laughed and Greg helped him up. "There were some…problems," he said lamely.
Harry stared at him. "What kind of problems?"
Greg scratched his head in confusion. "I don't know how it happened, but you ended up having three tattoos."
"Three!?"
"Don't worry; they're small, only as big as an inch."
Harry grumbled and made his way over to a large mirror so that he could see them. He saw a dragon tattoo that resembled Tagger. Harry grinned as he watched it do back flips before grinning itself. Harry smiled as he saw Tagger's real color. He was black and green, just like in Harry's transformation.
The real Tagger grinned and did his own back flips.
"That one right there," Greg grumbled, pointing to Tagger, "gave me some real trouble. That's why it took so long. He wouldn't stop moving." Greg stared at in confusion. "Never had a tattoo that came to life that fast."
Harry said nothing and stared at two other pictures. The one on Harry's left shoulder blade made him gasp. A beautiful phoenix was there, bright red and gold feathers gleaming. Harry could also make out a few black feathers as well. It wasn't moving.
The last one was a long snake with black, feathery wings on his right shoulder blade. It had pure black scales and bright green eyes. Harry stared at it and didn't feel any hate, only a sense of completeness. This one also didn't move.
He thanked the confused man and paid him. Tagger the tattoo continued to move around on his back but did nothing else. Greg told him magical properties or some insight will come to him later. With that done, they headed back to the garage. Harry was certain that along with his books, his new tattoos would be kept a secret.
They all got back to the garage at 11:30 and spent the next ten minutes just talking. During that time, Harry had gotten Hedwig back and she sat on his shoulder, nipping at his hair. He didn't know what to tell the others. He knew his hair wasn't against school rules since he had seen other kids at Hogwarts with dyed hair. What he was more worried about was his friend's reactions.
Harry sighed but smiled as Hedwig hooted. At least he didn't have to explain his eyes. Ash had suggested turning his eyes back to normal but that only left him blind. He didn't have time to go to an eye doctor. In fact, he barely had time to go get his school supplies.
It was when Switch suggested he hide it like a glamour charm but instead used his magic to cover it. She had put her hand over his eyes and instructed him to put his magic into her hands, just like when he had made the green streaks. When he felt that familiar prickling sensation, he saw that his eyes weren't slits, but round. Also, it looked like he had contacts in them so anyone who looked, wouldn't know what they really looked like.
Jack asked if he was a metamorphmagus, but Harry, who had no idea what that was, shook his head and said he would check up on that later. He checked the time and his eyes widened. "I need to get going," he said.
They all nodded and Kaz, the over-excited fairy, gave him a huge hug. She would be staying with the others. Harry bid the others goodbye and managed to whisper to Ash, "You wouldn't mind if I wrote back to you every now and then, would you?"
Ash shook her head and grinned. "Write anytime you want." She leaned in close and whispered, "I know you have the hot's for Switch."
Harry felt his face burn and whispered fiercely, "I have no idea what you mean."
Ash giggled. "Aw, your face is burning up like earlier."
Harry scowled but waved goodbye to everyone, Hedwig still perched on his shoulder, as he exited the shop. As if he could ever have a crush on someone. He didn't even understand the concept and that small crush on Cho Chang was all gone now.
Harry sighed as he was once again in Knockturn Alley. Hedwig flew above him as he walked by several shops. He had wanted to check out a few but no longer had the time but guessed if he looked really fast in one store it wouldn't matter.
He entered a large, shabby looking shop. There was no sign that stated what the store sold but one look around made Harry think they sold everything. He looked at an old pair of playing cards that actually burned any muggle who touched them. Harry passed them by and looked at some other items.
He folded his hands in thought. He wanted items that could help him protect himself but had no idea what he wanted. He didn't want to change himself too much either. Sure, he was becoming more serious but he didn't want people thinking he had become this huge Goth or Punk they would have to start looking after, especially because of his new clothes. Harry snorted and continued with his search.
Harry grabbed a few books about wards and curses. A few books were some of the weaker dark spells that only just rated above light spells. Harry grabbed two of those as well. He made his way to the back and saw several cages. He could hear hisses, growls, and squawks coming from the cages. Harry left them alone but paused as he saw one door open. It was empty.
He looked around, wondering if there was an escapee on the loose. He almost collapsed as something heavy landed on his back. He looked around and saw a three and a half foot something.
Harry looked over his shoulder and received a sharp nip of the nose. "Ow!" He swatted at the strange creature and watched it fly onto a chair. Harry stared at it. It was skinny, and had a sly look to it. It had blue fur with a white underbelly and a beak. It had black front paws and its hind legs were black talons. Scruffy black ears twitched on its head. Its tail reminded Harry of an otter and it had two pairs of feathery white wings on its back.
It chirped once before flying onto Harry's back. Harry stared at it and the creature only blinked at him. Reaching over to pet the creature on the head, Harry received another nip on the finger. "Ow!" Harry sucked on his abused finger. The creature chirped once more before burying his head into Harry's back lovingly.
"Make up your mind," Harry grumbled. The stupid thing hated him for a moment and bit him but the next moment he loved him and wanted to cuddle. Harry sighed and looked up as he heard a hoot. Hedwig had flown into the store and landed on Harry's shoulder. "Hey, girl," Harry mumbled. "Can you get…whatever this is off my shoulder?"
Hedwig blinked at him and stared at the blue creature. She hooted once and flew off, right out of the store. "Traitor," Harry was about to call, but to his surprise, the thing let go of him and flew right out the store, following Hedwig to only Merlin knew where.
Harry gulped as he felt an angry presence behind him. He turned around slowly and saw a very angry, twitching man. "I assume you'll be paying for that, right kid?" he growled.
"What!?" Harry objected. "I didn't tell it to fly off!"
The man leaned closer and Harry could smell a foul smell. "Pay for it, and we'll forget this incident, don't, and…well, let's just say you'll be walking out of this store in more than one piece."
Harry scowled but noticed a growing crowd. "Thanks a lot, Hedwig," he thought dully. He said to the man, "Sure, I'll pay for whatever that was."
The man grunted and led Harry over to the counter. Harry also placed his books on the counter.
"Don't worry about it, kid," the man said. "That was an Eyrie, and for whatever reason, it chose to be with you."
Harry snorted.
The man chuckled. "I've been trying to sell that thing for years but it attacked anyone who came to close. The fact that it only gave you a few nips was amazing all by itself."
Harry sighed. "Well, if it does decide to come back, can I have a book on; you called it an Eyrie, right?"
The man nodded. "I'll get you my only copy. If you see anything in the case, just take it out and add it to the pile."
Harry nodded as the man left and did as instructed. He saw several blunt knives, a few pocket watches and pieces of fur. One thing, however, made him snort. There was a gun with a sign that said, 'Goon, six galleons.'
"Goon," Harry thought amused. He read what the note next to it to see what the wizarding world had to say about a 'Goon.' There were several spells and enchantments on the gun but a large warning sign at the bottom said t didn't work. Harry noticed the safety was on. He snorted again at the stupidity of purebloods.
The gun included reloading, and cleaning charms. There was also an anti-noise spell on it as well. The owner had no idea what this was and what these instructions even meant. Harry bought it as well. He would probably never use it, but he couldn't chance a pureblood who knew how to use it to purchase it. He also bought several exotic owl treats. Just because Hedwig abandoned him, didn't mean he still wouldn't get her or Padfoot some treats.
When the man came back and started adding up all of Harry's purchases, he noticed Harry spying into a large goblet full of liquid. There was an egg the size of grown mans palm sitting down at the bottom.
"Kid," he muttered. Harry looked up. "If you pick that up, you can have it for free."
Harry looked at him suspiciously. "What's the liquid?"
The man grunted. "Who knows? I've had many people try to grab that egg. Been there for years. People who try always hit an invisible wall or something. Go ahead and give it a try."
Harry looked at the goblet curiously and reached his hand in. It came to a surprise to both of them when Harry reached in and pulled out the egg, his hand unharmed.
The man whistled. "Well, shoot boy. You didn't get burned."
"Burned!?" Harry said. "You said the liquid was harmless."
"I lied. That liquid burns a persons hand like acid. I only lied to see if you could do it. Looks like you can, and I always keep my word. The egg is yours."
Harry grumbled about crazy old men but inspected the egg curiously. It was black with white spots on the top. He put it into his pocket after the man gave him a cloth with a heating charm on it. Still annoyed that he had to pay for that Eyrie, he exited the store and made his way back into Diagon Alley.
He checked his new pocket watch, running his fingers over the number thirteen, and checked the time. He still had thirty-five minutes left before he made his way back. It annoyed him greatly that he had to back at a certain time. He was being rushed and that meant he didn't have a lot of time to spend with his new friends or find all, or even if it was, the right equipment.
Harry walked over to Flourish & Blotts. He was quick in there, not wasting more than five minutes. He grabbed all the books that was required and only grabbed a few extra books on jinxes, metamorphmagus, and animagus transformations. True he already had his, but he needed to figure out how to transform with shoes and stuff. McGonagall always transformed with clothes on but she never received any rips. He would figure that out later.
Happy with all of his purchases, Harry entered the Apothecary. Looking around at the different ingredients, he couldn't help but wrinkle his nose at the fowl smell. Buying his school supplies was easy, but trying to convince the store manager that he could afford one gold cauldron, two silver cauldrons, one copper cauldron, and a pewter cauldron to replace his old one at the cauldron shop was a whole new story. He needed the others for the more advance potions. He had taken a quick look and noticed most of the potions were brewed in silver cauldrons so he purchased an extra one.
It wasn't until Harry got a little too annoyed that he dumped several hundred galleons on the counter to pay for it all. Smirking at the man's look of shock, Harry also purchased fifty new vials. Twenty were normal sized ones while ten were fairly big. Another ten were only a centimeter wide and an inch long. The last ten were two centimeters big and two centimeters long. Those would be perfect for hiding cures or poisons in his new pockets.
Harry was about to pay for his purchases when a thought passed his mind. "You wouldn't happen to have any potion books that give energy, do you?"
The man, Rick, Harry read on the name tag, rubbed his chin. "What kind of energy potions? There's quite a few and they're usually for the sick or involve the dark arts."
"For insomnia," Harry responded. He would keep to his word and not sleep. He would no longer allow Voldemort into his mind to torture him at night. Until he got Occlumency or something else down, he wouldn't sleep. He sighed. He would need lots of caffeine.
"Insomnia? Pepper up potions work but if it's an everyday thing, I recommend this book." He handed Harry a dusty book that read, 'Cures for Sleep.' "We get all kinds of Aurors or anyone else who have gone through something terrible that need potions to just make it throughout the night. I suggest only taking it twice a week; otherwise your body will become addicted to it like a drug."
Harry nodded. "Does it work for those who don't sleep at all?"
Rick stared at him. "Then there's something wrong with you kid." Harry snorted and the man cracked a grin. "It should, just do as the instructions say, and you'll be fine."
"Thank you," Harry said as he paid and watched Rick shrink the packages. With a wave goodbye, Harry left the shop, a grin in place. Now he had something to help him retain his energy.
Now what did he have to purchase? Harry thought for a second and almost groaned at how stupid he was. He couldn't just walk up to everyone with all these packages. He made his way to the Briggs Luggage shop.
He noticed a few smaller kids looking around, excited grins on their faces. He couldn't help but smile as he saw the soon to be first years buy their first trunk. Harry waited patiently until there was someone free.
"What can I get ya, love?" a dark haired brunette said, flicking her hair a bit.
Harry looked at her. "I need a trunk with several rooms," he told her. "Definitely something with a library and lots of free space."
"Hmm, we have a bag that can fit almost anything into it but I don't think that's what you want." As Harry shook his head, she continued, "We do have a trunk that might have a bit more than what you want but we don't have 'just a library and extra room.' Would you like to see it?"
Harry nodded eagerly and followed her. She led him to a nice sized trunk made of Ebony wood. It was polished and shined brightly when light hit it. She popped the trunk open and jumped in. Harry followed and gasped at the large room. It was like a living room, having several comfy chairs and a large couch. There was even a fire place with gold designs.
"As you can see, sir," the girl said, "this trunk is rather expensive so if you don't think…" she trailed off as Harry lifted his bag and jingled it a bit, letting her hear all the coins.
"If you please," Harry said, "I don't have much time and would like the grand tour."
"Right away, sir." She led the way into the kitchen and Harry was more than impressed that there was actually a fridge. The girl, however, had no idea what it was. Harry noticed all the compartments and storage rooms could hold enough food to let a person live in this trunk for a full year. There was no food in it so Harry would have to buy some himself. There were a few pots and pans, though.
Two other rooms were bare but the grand room had a large king bed, a large tub for two and a good sized shower. There was a wardrobe in the room as well, to put all of his clothes. Harry was wide eyed as he took it all in and couldn't help but commemorate whoever made this trunk. However, he didn't just want a fancy trunk; he wanted a trunk with a library.
Telling the girl what he wanted to see, she gave him a large grin and beckoned him to follow. Harry did so and his grin became a bit dangerous as he saw a large library with a small gym connected to it in another room.
"You'll have to buy your own training equipment," Harry was told, "but I believe there's a shop by the grocery store about three stores down."
Harry thanked her and looked around. There were two chairs that looked even more comfortable than the one's in the Gryffindor Common Room. Another fireplace stood against the wall and instead of gold lining, it had silver. The book case was charmed to allow Harry to arrange his books in any way he wanted. The wood was made out of Rosewood this time.
The gym floor was made out of a soft material that wouldn't cause any slipping, bruised bones when landing, or stains. If any type of liquid, whether it be blood or a drink, it soaked right up and was as good as new. Harry was pretty sure it was the gym that made his final decision. He only wished he had enough time to visit muggle London to grab some exercise machines.
When they exited the trunk, Harry had left most of his purchases inside but carried his books from Flourish & Blotts, as well as his potion ingredients from the Apothecary. He couldn't have people think he didn't buy anything.
"Now," the girl started, "this trunk has charms on it that will only allow you or a family member to enter now that you own it. If you want a friend to be able enter, just say his or her name and say he/she is allowed in. The charm will allow that person to enter when you yourself are with them. They won't be able to enter without you because it is magically enchanted to stay locked. This won't work with family members, though."
Harry nodded in thanks. Since he had no family, he didn't have to worry about that.
He had the trunk shrunk and couldn't help but say, "It's great that wizard items can shrink."
The girl looked at him like he was crazy. "Of course! How else would we be able to carry all of our supplies?" She rang up the price.
Harry chuckled and paid, putting the now five inch trunk in his bag. He knew exactly where he wanted to put his dad's desk. "Now, to that training store," he said to himself.
True the girl's word; there was an exercise store next to a grocery store. Harry had actually never envisioned wizards to have a grocery store but figured that they needed a way to get food as well.
Harry couldn't help but feel a bit nervous as he entered the store. This was more of an Auror training store and Harry didn't want to deal with any questions. He was glad he had a new look and his black bandana to cover his scar.
The store itself mostly had books on self defense but Harry didn't even bother with those. He did get a wand holster that strapped to his arm. That reminded him; he still needed to speak with Mr. Ollivander. Harry had almost given up looking when he saw a small figuring pretending to shoot spells. Harry looked at the box.
Tired of always being jumped? Tired of being weak and never on your toes? Then this is the item for you. Three figures that can reach five foot eight will put you into shape. The first one will allow you to shoot spells and see how strong it is, providing a meter. The second one is for physical defense, fighting with both fist and foot. The third one will shoot standard spells at you, giving only minimal damage if hurt.
There are different levels, getting harder and harder. The last two only follow these rules as the first one doesn't fight back. The fist fighting will get faster and much harder. Recommend padding. The third shoots more advance spells and the last level even provides the Poena Curse, a weaker version of the Cruciatus Curse.
Harry grabbed two of each. He was about to grab a book on the martial arts, but Tagger stopped him. Tagger would be showing him how to fight like a dragon. Harry would be learning, advance potions, spells, fighting techniques, Occlumency, and weapons of all kind. He didn't have time to grab something flashy or unneeded. Harry agreed but still bought a book on street fighting.
"Hey, chibi!" Tagger called, waving him over. "Check out these rings."
Harry walked over, wondering why Tagger called him over about a ring. When he read what the rings had to offer, he saw Tagger's evil grin. "Gravity rings. Oh, I can't wait to start making you run."
"Just you wait," Harry whispered back. "I'll get revenge on you. Not only for the insane amount of work I know you're going to put me through, but because I know the tattoo you is jumping all over my back. It'll get me caught."
Tagger just waved him off. Harry grabbed a pair of silver rings. They were skinny and had no way of falling off without being pulled off by hands. There were ten levels on the rings, making the gravity feel heavier and heavier. They were a wizards version of weights.
Purchasing them quickly, along with a few mats and to his delight, a punching bag, he got out of there before anyone could ask him about hi age. "Hah! I still have thirty minutes left!" Harry said to himself.
He wanted to go grocery shopping in a wizard grocery store and see what it was like. Practically jogging in, Harry was disappointed it was almost the same as in muggle London. The only difference was the enchanted candies and kitchen utensils.
Scratching his head in amusement, Harry grabbed a shopping cart that floated along side of him and started browsing. Just like shopping for Aunt Petunia, Harry told himself. The only difference was that he was shopping for himself. It was true he could always get Dobby to get him food from the kitchens, but just owning food in that small trunk kind of made it home. He couldn't wait to find a home for himself now that he was emancipated. He decided to think about that later and just make it through the year.
He passed by several shopping moms and went to the dairy area. The kitchen in his trunk would keep everything from getting spoiled. Humming a little to himself, Harry grabbed two cartons of milk and a carton of chocolate milk. Since he never had chocolate milk before, he was eager to try some.
He grabbed some bacon, sausage, jam, and even steak and ribs. The raw meat had him drooling and he had to use all of his self control not to start eating it right then and there. Three different cereals were purchased as well. Harry passed the vegetable isle. He felt guilty but even in human form, it still looked disgusting and made him want to vomit. He doubted he could survive ever eating a salad.
Grabbing all kinds of canned food, Harry had a fun time looking at the butterbeer isle. They had one, three, ten, fifty, all different numbers. The cases were different. If you bought more than six, there were only six bottles in the case but a new bottle was added until it had no more. Harry grabbed two that carried fifty, giving him one hundred bottles. He loved the soft drink and knew his friends would want some as well when he decided to show them the trunk.
For a moment, he wondered if he was spoiling himself too much. He frowned and Tagger managed to nudge him into line before he decided to put several things back. Yes, he decided, he was spoiling himself, but shouldn't he? It was his money and he was using it to train. The trunk was a bit much, but Harry needed a place to train without people watching him
Besides, said a sly voice, what would your friends say if they knew you were learning the dark arts? They would stay away from you and the Headmaster would watch you every moment of the day.
No, said another voice, I'm learning this to help them. I need to train to become stronger. They would understand.
It's your money, the sly voice said. Do what you want with it.
Harry sighed and rubbed his head, confused with his internal conflict. Yes, he decided, it was his money, and he would spend the way he wanted but wisely.
Ollivander's Wand shop was only a few minutes away when he exited the grocery store, food locked in his trunk. He would sort everything later. He entered the store and stood in a corner as a young witch was trying her first wand.
"Oh, a difficult one, eh?' Ollivander was practically jumping up and down with excitement. His eyes met Harry's and he smiled. "Aw, Mr. Potter, my trickiest customer so far."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Hello, Mr. Ollivander. I just came over to ask a few questions. I'm willing to wait as this young witch finds her wand." Harry smiled at the young girl who smiled back shyly.
They continued to try a few more wands which all ended being snatched back, evidently being the wrong one. The father leaned over to Harry and whispered, "Is this guy a bit, you know, touched in the head?"
Harry chuckled. "He was like that when I got my first wand as well."
"This is still a bit much," the father whispered. "I mean cauldrons, magic wands for goodness sakes!"
Harry grinned. "Muggles?" he asked.
"If you mean no magical families, then yes."
Harry nodded. "Both my parents were magical but I grew up in the Muggle world. I had no idea until I was told on my eleventh birthday."
The father nodded. "We all thought it was some joke. I don't think we would have believed them if one woman hadn't transformed into a cat."
Harry grinned. "That would be Professor McGonagall, the head of Gryffindor house."
"Ah, yes, she did say something like that."
They grew silent as they continued to watch the girl try a new wand. With a cry of delight, Ollivander watched blue and gold sparks burst out of the wand. Harry grinned, remembering how it felt when he tried his first wand.
"Now, what can I do for you, Mr. Potter?" Mr. Ollivander asked, packaging the girl's wand.
Harry waved to her and said, "See you at school." She blushed and followed her parents out the door. He turned to Ollivander and took out his wand. "What do you know about Prior Incantatem?" he said seriously.
Ollivander's eyes met his sharply. "How do you know about that?"
"I dueled with Voldemort," Harry said slowly. He knew the Ministry and most of the wizarding world didn't believe him so he didn't know what to expect from Ollivander. "Our wands hit and a beam connected our wands, only breaking after his spell kind of backfired."
Ollivander stood up and beckoned for Harry to follow him. "Best we do this in the back with more privacy."
"Good idea," Harry muttered.
Ollivander offered Harry a stool but he shook his head. Ollivander took his wand carefully. "You need to start polishing your wand more often." Harry snorted and Ollivander cracked a smile. "But I am sure you do not wish to talk about that."
"No, no I don't."
"Very well then." Ollivander stared at the wand thoughtfully. "You say that He-who-must-not-be-named wand backfired on him?" Harry nodded. "Oh, very good, Mr. Potter!" Mr. Ollivander clapped. "I always did say great things would come from you."
Harry scowled. "Bad things seem to keep happening to me than good things."
"Good things, bad things, it all results in what will happened in the end."
Harry sighed. "I think you've accepted one too many lemon drops from Professor Dumbledore."
Mr. Ollivander chuckled. "Perhaps. But," he said sharply, "that is not what we wish to discuss."
Harry shook his head. "No. I have many questions. What can I do about Voldemort when he has a brother wand? I can't fight him if we only end in a tie. What are the laws on two wands?"
"Hmm, two wands? Well, Mr. Potter, I am afraid that is illegal." Harry deflated. "But," Harry perked up, "if we came to an agreement, I'm sure we can compromise."
"What do you want?" Harry asked.
"I want any interesting wand core that you find that you no longer need. I can give you a list so you know."
"But, won't you be giving me a wand?" Harry asked.
"Oh no, Mr. Potter, I know that you already possess a book on wand making and have some very interesting ingredients and knowledge of where to find some."
Harry pointed his wand at the elder man, having somehow summoned it back to his hand. "How do you know about that?" he growled dangerously.
Mr. Ollivander, who didn't look that surprised his own wand that he himself made was pointed at him, said, "I am able to, how you say, get a good feel of what people have done in the last twenty-four hours."
Harry didn't look convinced but asked, "Occlumency?"
"No, my own talent, Mr. Potter." Ollivander looked him squarely in the eyes. "Follow that book you bought. It was written by father, actually."
Harry looked surprised and took the slip of paper Mr. Ollivander offered him
"Your first wand is very powerful, but I think a self made wand will be very interesting."
Harry sighed. "This will take a while."
Mr. Ollivander chuckled. "I am sure you will do fine. Here," he said, handing Harry a metal box. "Some tools to help you."
"Thank a lot, Mr. Ollivander. How much?"
"Twenty galleons."
Harry grinned. "Figured I wouldn't get it for free." He looked at Ollivander seriously. "This doesn't leave the room."
Ollivander nodded. "Of course."
"Oh, and one more thing," Harry said. "Can you take the tracking charms off my wand? I want to be able to do magic when outside of school without getting caught."
"Hmm," Ollivander rubbed his chin. "I can," he said slowly, "but for another price."
Harry scowled.
"I heard that you killed a basilisk in your second year. I would like a few fangs and some scales."
Harry nodded. "Agreed." Ollivander took his wand and sprinkled some powder on it, whispering an incantation under his breath. Harry's wand glowed black for a moment before returning to normal.
Harry took his wand back tossed the money on a work bench and walked out of the store. He had nothing else to say.
Outside of the shop, Harry pulled out his gravity rings. "Almost forgot to put them on," he said to Tagger. Fitting snuggly on his two ring fingers, right next to the pinky, the rings stayed. "Level one," he said aloud. He felt a little pull but other than that, nothing big.
Shrugging, he said, "Level two." He felt a big pull that time and almost buckled under the pressure. "Ok, I think I'll leave it at that."
Next came the agonizing eight minute walk that took him to the Leaky Cauldron. Panting just a little bit but not enough to draw attention, Harry made his way into the pub and dropped all his stuff onto a chair. Looking around to see if his friends were there, he groaned as he saw them on the other side.
Picking up his stuff once more, he dropped everything on the floor, and collapsed on a chair next to Ron. "Hey, guys," he said tiredly.
Ron and Hermione looked at him strangely. "Err, do we know you?" Ron asked.
Harry blinked before realizing he must look very different without glasses on. The green hair must look a little odd too. He laughed. "It's me, Harry," he said, still chuckling.
"Harry?" they both said in unison.
"Yes?" he asked innocently
Hermione grabbed his hair roughly. "What have you done to your hair?!"
"I guess it's a bit much?" Harry said jokingly, getting Hermione to let go of his hair.
Ron laughed. "Merlin, Harry! Mum will have kittens when she sees what you did!"
"Then I guess it's a good thing I said no to the piercings?"
"What!?" they both yelled.
Harry sighed and laid his head on the table. This gravity thing would definitely take some getting used to. He was so tired too… No! He couldn't fall asleep, giving Voldemort another chance to enter his mind.
"So, how was your day?" he asked them.
"You missed everything, mate," Ron said. "There was a famous Quidditch player in Quality Quidditch Supplies. He was signing autographs and everything."
"Was he from the Chudley Cannons?" Harry asked.
"No," Ron said moodily.
"Then I guess he really was a professional."
"Yea…hey!"
Harry and Hermione chuckled.
"So, what about you, Harry?" Hermione asked.
Harry shrugged. "Bought my school supplies, a few extra spell books, and these two rings." He showed them to Ron and Hermione. "They make gravity much stronger than it should, giving me a good work out. I plan on getting in shape, and these things will help out." He grinned at them.
"Is that all?" Hermione said sarcastically.
"Well," Harry grinned innocently, quickly thinking of lie, "I went to a barber shop and I guess we kind of went overboard." He fiddled with a strand of green hair. "I like it though. I also got some good clothes."
"About time too, mate," Ron said, slapping him on the back.
Both boys turned to Hermione. "What about you, Hermione? How was your day?"
She smiled as at Harry, playing with his locks. Harry frowned, wondering why his hair was being played around with. He figured it was a girl thing. "Well, I found some very interesting books in Flourish & Blotts. A few will help us study for our O.W.L.s."
Ron groaned. "You can't be serious, Hermione! It's still the summer, lighten up a bit." He turned to Harry. "Back me up here, Harry."
"Sorry, Ron," Harry said, grinning. "I plan on being much more serious this year. From now on, I'll be studying like there's no tomorrow."
Hermione beamed. "At last! Now you won't be scraping by with only an E or A."
Harry snorted. "Geeze, Hermione, you make it sound like I had the worst grades in our year!"
Ron laughed. "No one can get any worse than Crabbe or Goyle."
Hermione giggled and pulled Harry closer, looking at him closely. "Ok, Harry, you're going to tell me everything." Harry gulped. "And your new contacts look really good, where did you get them?"
Harry shrugged. "Saw a magical lenses shop near Knockturn Alley."
"Is little Harrykinns disobeying all the grownups and going into Knockturn Alley?" a voice said from behind them.
Harry grinned at the twins. "And if I did? I doubt you two would rat me out, especially with all the trouble you two usually cause."
Fred and George grinned. "Looks like you know us too well," said Fred.
George ruffled his hair. "I can't wait to see mum's expression."
Harry scowled. "It's my hair; I doubt she'll get that angry over hair."
The twins shook their head and leaned closer. "It's not that," Fred whispered.
"It's the fact that the guard's couldn't find you earlier is what's giving her a panic attack," George said quietly.
Harry hid a smirk. "Did I?"
"Yep," George said cheerfully. "Speak of the devil, here she comes now." They all turned to see Mrs. Weasely walk in with a few others. Harry wrinkled his nose as Snape walked in as well.
She took one look at him, turned away, and then jerked he head back to him. "Harry!" she shrieked. They all jumped at her loud voice. She took Harry in a big hug. "Harry! Do you know how worried I was when Tonks and the others said they lost you? And what have you done to your hair?"
"Lost me?" Harry struggled out of her hold. "Lost me?" Harry repeated. "I'm not some item that can be 'lost.' If they couldn't keep up or got lost in the crowd, it's their own fault. It doesn't matter anymore, I'm fine."
He narrowed his eyes at them all, eyes trailing to Snape who sneered at him. "Hey, Professor Snape," Harry said cheerfully, making Snape's sneer falter. He also got a lot of weird glances his way. His stomach growled. "So who's hungry?"
"No one," Snape said angrily. "Because you decided to make everyone's day be much harder than necessary, we are leaving early. You can eat back at Hogwarts."
Harry scowled. "Yes, because several Order members couldn't keep up with a fifteen year old, I made everyone have a bad day." He ignored Moody's angry glare.
Snape brought himself up to full height, glaring down at Harry. "Green… my, my, Potter, how very housing to Slytherin."
Harry shrugged. "Yea, I guess green is really my color. I can't say the same about your grease, Professor."
"Why you little!" Snape snarled but Lupin cut in.
"Harry," he said gently, "just let it go."
Harry stared at Remus quietly. No one said anything.
Harry took out his pocket watch, the one from is father's vault. "Why didn't you tell me about my fathers vault?"
Remus felt his breath get caught in his throat. He reached out, almost touching the locket. He pulled it back. "Silver," he muttered sadly. He looked at Harry. "It wasn't my place to tell."
Harry looked at him sadly. "Then who else would tell me?"
Remus sighed. "I think it's best if we go Harry."
Harry only nodded, hiding a groan as he stood up, the gravity rings still as heavy as ever, and grabbed his bags. Ron and Hermione didn't say anything. Harry was fine with that. He was more angry than sad. He was pretty sure he would start screaming if someone asked the wrong question.
When it was his turn, he took the floo powder and threw it in, saying, "Dumbledore's office!"
He kept his eyes shut and held his bags tightly, falling to the ground the second time that day. He swore silently and stood up, glaring at those who laughed at him. Why was that something to laugh about? Instead of making fun of him, why couldn't they just offer words of advice?
He was prepared to leave the office when Dumbledore's calm voice said, "Harry."
Harry sighed and seated himself in an armchair. The others popped out of the fireplace and were beckoned out of the office, leaving Harry alone with the Headmaster. He only saw the worried looks his friends sent him before the door shut in their faces.
Dumbledore sat behind his desk, fiddling with bits of parchment. "Earlier this morning, I received a message that told me the guards I sent with you had apparently lost track of you."
Harry didn't look at the Headmaster. If he wouldn't look at him, he wouldn't look back.
"Well, as much as it angers me that you have to send people to look after me, nothing happened." Harry scowled at the floor. Fawkes glided onto his knee but that did nothing to calm him down.
"You know I only wish the best for you, Harry, and your safety is one of the many concerns I have for you."
Harry sighed. "Is a little bit of freedom on your list of priorities, Headmaster?"
He said nothing for a moment.
Harry stood up. "If we are done, Headmaster, I would like to eat. I haven't had lunch and would like to spend some time with my friends."
"Harry--"
"Why does Voldemort want to kill me?" Harry cut in. Harry still didn't look at him. Fawkes flew onto his shoulder, rubbing his cheek. Tagger floated close, whispering soft words.
"Harry." Harry turned to look at Dumbledore but still didn't meet his eyes. "I'm sorry."
Harry waited and when he realized he would get no other answer, he said, "I'm sorry too, Headmaster."
He patted Fawkes on the head, whispered goodbye, and watched him fly to his perch. Harry walked out the door, slamming it shut. He would find out why, even if it killed him.
Dumbledore sighed and stood up, walking over to Fawkes. "Should I have told him?" he whispered.
Fawkes chirped soothingly but still fixed the Headmaster with a stern gaze.
"Until I know he's ready." Professor Dumbledore sat down, getting his books organized. He still felt Fawkes stare at him before flying off.
……………………………………………………………………………………………...
Harry kicked at a pebble angrily. His talk with the Headmaster had already made him angry, but lunch had just about made him explode. Snape's snide remarks and Ron's stupid comments made it almost impossible to bear. He ended up storming out of the great hall and glared at Remus and Sirius who was about to follow him.
"I just need to be alone," he told them coldly, and walked off.
He walked past the Fat lady and walked into the Gryffindor common room, making his way into his dorm room. Flipping through all his purchases, Harry pulled out his new trunk and enlarged it next to his bed in the corner. He took a deep breath to calm himself down.
If he didn't have the gravity rings on, he would have probably smashed something. At least the strain and all the fast moving he did tired him out a bit. That only fueled his anger, unfortunately. He couldn't be this out of shape. He took another deep breath and successfully calmed down, remembering that he couldn't concentrate if he didn't keep his temper in check.
Opening the trunk, Harry walked down the stairs, closing the door behind him. He smiled at the nice room. Chucking his school supplies aside, he pulled out the more important stuff. "First, have to deal with the food," Harry thought, starting to put all the food he had bought into the freezer, fridge, and cupboards.
He popped open a butterbeer and sighed happily after taking a long gulp. "I love this stuff."
Ignoring the master bedroom, Harry entered one of the empty rooms and took out the desk from his fathers vault, all the while playing with his necklace. "Enlarge," he said. The desk enlarged and returned to its normal size in the corner. Harry ran his hand over the wood.
"I'll be back later, dad," Harry whispered.
He entered the other vacant room. He took the rock he had been kicking and transfigured it into a nice sized table. He put all the cauldrons he purchased onto it. Transfiguring a quill into a smaller table, Harry put all the ingredients and phials he got onto it. Inspecting his work, Harry shrugged it off. His transfiguring skill definitely needed work. The tables looked ready to break. He left the room, planning organizing everything later.
Now he needed to deal with the books. Entering the library, Harry practically tossed all the books out of their bags. He was sure to put the wand making book and the tools off to the side. He also pulled out his new daggers and the gun he bought. He put the daggers aside carefully and put the small hand gun on top of the fireplace, making sure the safety was still on.
Yawning, he dragged a puffy chair over and sat down, starting to read on Magical Theory.
Before he got too far into the book, Tagger reminded him he still needed to meet Kilian at 6:00.
"We never said on the time," Harry pointed out, "how do you know the time?"
Tagger gave him a look that said, 'Cuz I'm me. Duh!'
"You agreed to meet each other at night. 6:00 is when it gets dark, so that means you agreed to meet her at that time!"
Harry looked amused. "Makes sense to me." Looking back at his book, he said, "I have a lot of work ahead of me."
……………………………………………………………………………………………...
Another chapter done! Poor Harry, being rushed like that. Sadly, because he was rushed, I felt I was rushed as well. I really hope you all enjoyed my longest chapter yet.
I'm pointing this out now. Harry will not be this little punk or Goth crazy kid. Just warning you. I hope I didn't overdue it with the trunk. I've read a few stories where Harry gets a trunk that can hold over a hundred people and didn't want to do anything like that. Just a little something that he can call home and be alone but still have enough to do what he needs to do.
Harry got tattoos! I had this idea in my head for months and couldn't wait to get it down. They're really important in this story. I know it said they had magical properties, but will be nothing big that makes him unbeatable or anything. I've read a few stories that Harry gets all these tattoos cuz he's a biker or something. (Shrugg) I honestly tried to find a story where Harry didn't have any magical tattoos.
If there is one out there, I'm sorry and did not purposely steal it. If anyone does find a story with magical or similar tattoos, please tell me so I can check with the author. I don't want this story to be taken down. Someone stole one of my ideas and tried to get my story taken down already. I don't want that to happen. Luckily, the other guy was booted off How did you like the shopping spree!? I'll try to keep Harry a bit in character but still make him both childish and mature. I know, two very different mixtures. Please review! Here are some questions!
1. Do you have a made up spell you're willing to offer? Please give the name and a good description.
2. What should the Eyrie's name be? (Male name)
3. Did I overdue it with Harry?
4. When is a good time to play hooky?
