Disclaimer: It seems till now I forgot to post disclaimer. So rectifying the mistake, this story belongs to J K Rowling and I am unfortunately not earning anything.

Author's Note: Thanks to all the reviewers.Hello everyone! I apologize to all those who read my story.I'm very happy with the way you are accepting and complimenting my story. Please continue to do so. It really is a great morale booster for me. Also if you have any suggestions, send them as soon as possible. Have fun reading!

CHAPTER 14

SUMMER OF SURPRISES

It had been two weeks since Harry returned after completing his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. And if the Dursleys were unhappy to have him back for the holidays, it was nothing to how Harry felt. He missed Hogwarts so much it was like having a constant stomach ache. He missed the castle, with its secret passageways and ghosts, his classes, the mail arriving by owl, eating banquets in the Great Hall, sleeping in his four-poster bed in the tower dormitory, visiting the gamekeeper, Hagrid, in his cabin next to the Forbidden Forest in the grounds, Quidditch, the most popular sport in the wizarding world (six tall goal posts, four flying balls, and fourteen players on broomsticks) and especially, he missed being able to do magic and not worrying about any law. But what he missed the most was his friends. The thing that bothered him the most was that till now he had sent quite a few letters to his friends but not received a single one. It was surprising since all of them had promised to stay in touch regularly. This seclusion was making him feel as if he was never a part of magical world.

After one week of getting thoroughly bored Harry decided to join Martial Arts classes that were recently opened in the neighborhood. He spent three hours daily, learning how to defend as well as attack. He was also asked to do meditation in order to achieve maximum concentration during the spars. His trainer was actually an old Chinese man named Sensei Ching, who was the owner of the facility. He was a patient man who helped Harry set his own pace since it seemed that Harry was a comparatively fast learner.

Next few days passed in a haze. He woke up and did the morning chores, and then he went for his morning run. After coming back he prepared lunch along with his Aunt. In the afternoon, he read books that were not related to the subjects taught at Hogwarts. Books like 'Notable Magical Names of Our Time', 'The Self-updating Book of Law' and 'The Complete History of the Most Ancient and Noble Houses'. In the evening he went for Martial Arts. He came back totally tired, had dinner and went to sleep.

One afternoon while reading the book on law that governs the Magical Britain, Harry found that Wandless magic was not traced by the Ministry. In fact he could use Wandless magic without any repercussions. From that day onwards Harry spent a couple of hours daily trying to hone his skills in this form of magic. He started with levitation charm. In the first week he only advanced enough that he could slightly shake the quill on which he was practicing but that encouraged him to continue with it. The next week proved fruitful since he was successful in levitating even though quill only rose up in the air for few moments. It seems that mastering it would take some more time but at least it wasn't impossible.

Finally after fifteen days of waiting for a response from his friends, Harry decided that enough was enough. He had exchanged phone number with Hermione and he was going to call her. He was very angry with all his friends and dialled the number to the house of muggleborn witch with full intent of unleashing his anger on her.

Tring tring…

"Granger residence…!"

"Hello Hermione! This is Harry Potter speaking. You might have heard of me. We go to the same school; in fact we are year mates. I also thought we were friends but now it seems as if I was mistaken because you seem so busy that you don't have the time to reply to me even once. You still recognize me or do I need to tell anything else about myself?" Harry said in a voice full of sarcasm.

It seemed that Hermione had gone in a shock at hearing the temper in her friend's voice. Harry was already getting impatient so he prompted, "What have you got to say about yourself Miss Granger?"

This broke Hermione from the trance and she started babbling, "Oh I am so sorry Harry but I did reply to your letters. I didn't know that you weren't receiving any. Actually Padma informed me in her letter that you were not responding her too so I thought that you might be busy with something and not replying to any of our letters. Please believe me when I say that none of us have forgotten you, and please calm down."

At hearing this Harry felt a bit guilty for talking to her in such a rude manner. He immediately apologized for his behavior which Hermione was too happy to forgive. After that both of them talked about whatever they were doing in their vacations. Hermione had just comeback after visiting her Family gathering. Also she told him that she was planning a visit to Rome next month. In the end they discussed about what might be interrupting their mail. Harry decided that he was going to inform his Head of the House, Professor Flitwick. Both friends chatted a little bit more and then finally decided to hang up.

Harry felt loads better after talking to Hermione. His friends were not ignoring him. It was just some problem with the mail delivery. Harry decided to quickly address the problem. He wrote a letter to Professor Flitwick, asking his assistance in the matter. He sent the letter with Hedwig and decided that there was nothing more he could do at this instance.

Three days later Harry got a surprise when Professor Flitwick appeared at the doorstep of number 4, Privet Drive. Thankfully only Aunt Petunia was in the house at that time so it didn't cause any problem.

"Hmmm…... so are you trying to say that your letters are reaching your friends but you are not receiving any mail?"

Waiting for Harry's nod, he continued, "It seems like someone is intercepting your mail. Don't worry Mr Potter, I will look into the situation and try to solve it as soon as possible."

Harry sighed with relief and thanked the Professor for his help. Professor Flitwick waved it off and said, "No problem Mr Potter. Now heading to the other topic, I would like to know your answer to the offer that I and Professor McGonagall proposed to you at the end of the session. Have you given it a thought?"

Harry stayed silent for a few moments. He had given this offer a great deal of thought since he came back from Hogwarts and didn't find any negative aspects in it. He looked at Professor and said, "I accept the offer sir, I promise I'll do my best and won't disappoint you."

The cheery Professor smiled contentedly and said, "We don't expect anything else Mr. Potter, otherwise we would never have approached you. Both of us felt that you have extraordinary amount of talent as well as dedication. You have the potential to become one of the greatest wizards the history has ever produced." Shortly after that, the Professor bid farewell and left the house. Harry felt proud at the encouraging words of the diminutive Professor and became more determined to prove his mentor correct.

Four days after the Professor's visit, Harry received his first letter in the whole summer. Along with it came a package. Harry rushed towards it with excitement. He quickly opened the letter to find it was from Professor Flitwick. It seems that some house-elf named Dobby was intercepting his mail. Flitwick informed that the matter was now solved and Harry would now have a proper form of communication without any problem. Also the package that came along with the letter contained all the posts that were meant for him.

Harry immediately wrote a letter thanking Professor Flitwick. After sending the letter with the owl that brought them, Harry dove into the package. In the package he found quite a few posts. Most of them were from the various members of the study group, thanking him for his help in the last year, telling about their vacations and asking about his holidays. He decided to respond to every one of them. Apart from mails from his schoolmates, Harry received a letter from Andromeda. She was quite receptive of his attempt at correspondence. Andromeda informed him that she along with her Husband, Ted Tonks ran a law firm with its office located in an alley just adjacent to Diagon Alley. She also had a daughter who was a seventh year Hufflepuff named Nymphadora Tonks. She promised to offer him assistance whenever he needed. Harry was very happy to read the letter and promised to reply to it. Now there were two more posts; one from Gringotts which was a monthly statement of his accounts. The last one on the other hand was a big surprise. It was from one of the top Quidditch teams of Wizarding World; The Puddlemere United. Harry simply stared at the letter for few minutes before finally opening it. It read

Mr. Harry James Potter

We have recently come to know of your interest in the game of Quidditch. Also we have heard that you play the position of seeker quite well. We conduct a Summer Training Camp each year in order to prepare our bench strength as well as next generation for the big games. We are considering allowing you to attend this camp and thus invite you to visit our Summer Training Camp that is going to start from 20thJune. If you perform well enough, you may get the chance to practice in international facilities. Also the guidance that you might receive here would be quite a big advantage. The site of the camp is written on the parchment tagged along with the letter. Hoping to see you on the above-mentioned date!

Philbert Deverill

Manager, The Puddlemere United

Today was 19th, so it meant that Harry had to go there tomorrow if he wanted to grab this precious opportunity. He couldn't believe that he was being invited in the training camp of the oldest team in the league. That night he wrote replies to all his friends telling all of them about his "Dobby" problem as well his invite to the Quidditch Training Camp. After sending them with Hedwig, he went to sleep.

Next day he woke up earlier than usual and got ready for the day. He prepared breakfast, told his Aunt about his destination and left the house carrying his broomstick with him. He took the Knight Bus to the destination and reached there in fifteen minutes time. He still had not got accustomed to the bumpy ride of the Knight Bus but thankfully was able to stop himself from smashing into the window pane. He exited to bus and found himself looking at a massive stadium. It was in a remote area surrounded by forests on all sides. Harry felt his excitement growing as he took steps towards the gates. He showed the invitation to the guards followed by a lot of staring at his scar. He was then escorted by a guard to the inside of the building. The moving pictures of Puddlemere United's most famous winning movements were displayed on the walls of corridor. Harry went to the office to find a man in his fifties sitting behind a big desk. He looked up at him and smiled.

"Ah, Mr Potter, it is a great pleasure to meet you! A great pleasure indeed! I was beginning to wonder if you would ever come! My name is Richard Wellington and I am the manager of The Puddlemere United." The man gleefully declared frantically grabbing Harry's hand and shaking it furiously.

"Uh... yes, the pleasure is mine." Harry politely replied.

"Please sit!" the elder wizard said while motioning towards a seat.

"You might be wondering how we came to know about your talent in Quidditch, right?"

At Harry's nod he continued "Actually your flying instructor Madame Hooch was my year mate and good friend. She always informs me whenever she sees some exceptionally talented player and I always try to give them a chance to prove themselves. You also might be surprised to know that she suggested your father's name too but then he was in sixth year. Your father attended summer training camp but discontinued because he felt that he was much more needed in the ministry where he worked as a hit wizard." Harry was quite surprised to know this piece of information and felt proud that he was following his father's footsteps.

"Still, you are a surprise for me Mr Potter. It is the first time that Rolanda suggested the name of a soon-to-be twelve boy. So you must understand why I might be a bit sceptical about you. So today you will have to compete with another ten players who have been handpicked by my scouts. If you play better than them, you may attend the summer training camp."

Now Harry was starting to feel very nervous. His excitement was ebbing away and nervousness was occupying its place.

"Okay so as I see it you have bought the broomstick with you and that too a Nimbus 2000. That's good. So without any delay let me just show you towards the field."

Both of them moved towards the pitch. Even from a distance harry could see a few players in the air. Mr Wellington led him to the middle of a pitch where a man in his forties was instructing a few young players.

"Paul, can I have a few seconds?" Mr Wellington asked the man. Paul looked towards them and just nodded. He gave a few instructions and then came towards them. Paul was a man with tremendous height, broad shoulders, a peculiar mix of white-blond hair, and arresting blue eyes.

Richard elicited a bright smile. "Ah, Paul, busy with the players?"

"Most of these lads here are not worth my time. Thankfully they will be gone and I will only have to coach those who have material." Paul sighed.

"Is this the kid you were talking about?" Paul asked pointing towards Harry.

Glancing at Harry, Richard nodded giddily. "Yes! Let me present to you a remarkably talented young man, Harry Potter!" Paul's eyes widened a bit as he too took a customary glance at the infamous scar. "Harry, this is the Puddlemere United coach, Paul White."

"A pleasure to meet you, sir," Harry politely acknowledged.

The man eyed him up and down, making Harry increasingly uncomfortable. "Are you sure he's up for it, Richard? This kid is what... eleven? You know I won't accept him just because he is Boy-who-lived?"

"He is suggested by Madame Hooch, Paul and you know she is very picky. And I am only asking that you at least give him a chance to prove himself. If he fails your expectations, you may kick him out. Is that fine with you?" Richard explained.

The boy was too young for his taste. After all, he was still a mere first year student! Oh, well. He'd just have to go along with the procedure accordingly. He finally nodded and addressed Harry for the first time.

"Alright! Be ready kid. You can join the others in the second pitch, and we'll see what you're made of. If I don't take a liking to you, you'll be dropped out and never to step a foot in here again. Do I make myself clear?"

Harry just nodded. Trials were held for the whole day. The youngest player apart from him was a fifteen year old wizard, so Harry was feeling quite nervous at the prospect of facing those having years of experience on him. First occurred the trials for Chasers, then the Beaters and after that Keeper. Now the only ones remaining were those who came for seeker try-outs. There were eleven people including him.

"I'm going to release twenty snitches. Try to catch as many as you can. While you are searching for them, my four beaters will be hurling bludgers at you with full force. So you have to save your hide from them too. Now any queries?" Paul boomed. Everyone replied in negative. All this while Harry was getting even more nervous as every other player was staring at him and cracking jokes. Finally all the players mounted their brooms as coach released twenty snitches at the same time. After ten seconds of waiting, Paul blew the whistle and all eleven players kicked off the ground. He wobbled a bit in the starting but quickly got his act together. As he looked around him he found all others zooming all around the pitch while searching for the snitch.

Next hour was very tiring for Harry since he gave his full concentration on flying while escaping the bludgers as well as all his opponents. In the end Harry caught the last snitch and Paul blew his whistle for the final time. All the players headed towards the coach to find the results.

"Alright everyone, you have all performed well but as you know we only accept extraordinary performers, so let's take a look at your score. Out of eleven of you four were caught by bludgers and are right now in the infirmary getting over their injuries. So they are out of competition. Of the remaining seven, Harry potter caught the maximum snitches. His score is an amazing eleven. Apart from him Lionel King caught six snitches. These are the top scorers and they have been selected to receive training this summer. Everyone else, you played well but not well enough. Hope to see your improved game next summer. You can move."

Every player was shocked to know that they were beaten by an eleven year old kid. Also add the fact that the person whom they were making fun of was actually the boy-who-lived. All of the unselected ones grumbled their displeasure while Harry and Lionel moved to other side where all other selected players were standing. Each player came to them and congratulated them for their performance. They all patted his back for the dangerous stunts that he pulled off during the game. Further discussions were laid to rest as coach gave them instructions for next two months.

The administration had selected six chasers, four beaters, two keepers and two seekers. All of them had to attend the training sessions each morning with weekends off. They were provided with Quidditch gears and given a tour of the whole stadium. Finally after a whole day of hard work, the coach decided to give them leave for the day. They were all provided with medallions that acted as portkey. It deposited them from any location to the stadium. Harry returned Privet Drive by Knight Bus. As he reached the house, he immediately headed to his room after informing his aunt of his arrival. He fell asleep as soon as he hit the pillows.

For the next two months, Harry got used to the new schedule. Every morning he woke up early, freshened up, wore the navy-blue robes emblazoned with two crossed golden bulrushes and took the portkey to the stadium. He went through the physical regimen that was set by the coach which included running laps around the field, stretching and then playing. He was introduced to new strategies and also received tips from various professional players. Initially almost everyone doubted his abilities on the pitch but after watching him fly and perform dangerous stunts with ease, everyone accepted as well as appreciated him. There were still a few who felt that the only reason Harry could attend the camp was because of his fame but Harry ignored them since they meant nothing to him. After playing, everyone had to spend an hour in the gym followed. After having shower Harry returned to Dursleys' house. Aunt Petunia knew about his taxing schedule and thus had breakfast ready for him.

Afternoons were spent either sleeping or practising Wandless magic. In the evening he went to the Martial arts classes where he was progressing quite well. On the weekends, Harry spent time with all his primary school friends whether it be playing football or going for a movie or to an amusement park.

Finally the end of July had approached and it was time for Harry to leave Privet Drive. As he looked back at his time spent in Privet Drive this year, Harry found that it was the most enjoyable time he ever had in this place. He had already informed his Sensei of his plans. Sensei had wished him luck for the next ten months and strictly ordered him to continue with his practice each day. He had been invited by Augusta Longbottom in the birthday party of Neville from where he was going straightaway to Penelope's farmhouse. He was practically ordered by her to spend his last month there.

He took permission from Aunt Petunia, packed all his belongings in his trunk, minimised it and kept it in his pocket. That day he departed to Longbottom Manor directly from the camp using floo. He came out of the floo to find himself staring in awe as he took in the large sitting room that he had come into with a high, ornate ceiling, several comfortable chairs, a large couch and loveseat, along with several portraits around on the light tan walls. However what truly caught Harry's attention was the large window that looked over the North Sea from a large cliff.

Harry's focus was broken by a voice behind him. "Welcomes to Longbottom Manor, Mister Potter! Mistress Longbottom asks me to leads you to her."

Harry turned to see a small house elf that was maybe a foot and a half tall with a small towel on his form that looked like a toga. He nodded to the little elf and began to follow him. As he made his way from the sitting room, Harry continued to look in awe of the house he was in. While the walls stayed to the tan colour, he was able to see several rooms as he followed his guide including a large study with quite a few book shelves filled to over flowing and what looked like a bathing room with a sauna. But what truly caught his attention was a large, grand staircase that he passed as he made his way by the large front doors before finally making it into the dining room.

Upon entering he noticed Madam Longbottom sitting at the head of a large ten-person table that looked centuries old. She was clad in a casual, blue witch's robe with her hair held back in a loose ponytail and reading an issue of the Daily Prophet. "Good evening madam, yous guest has arrived."

Madam Longbottom looked up and gave the elf a nod and smile. "Thank you Ed." The little elf nodded before popping away. "Come sit down Mr Potter" she said kindly inclining her head to the seat to her left.

"I was informed by Neville that you will join us for lunch. So how were you holidays till now?"

"They are going quite well Madam Longbottom. I enjoyed with my friends in the muggle world. Also I've been busy attending the Quidditch training camp of Puddlemere United." Harry replied.

"Hmm! Neville told me that you have been attending the camp. You should be proud Mr Potter. I have never heard anyone as young as you being allowed in such camps. I also must admit that if anyone could do it, it could only be a Potter. They have always been quite proficient at flying. Add to it their recklessness and you get a perfect fit for a Quidditch player. James was quite crazy about the game so he would surely be proud of you." She commented while smiling slightly. Harry too smiled and thanked her. The elder witch nodded to the young man and was about to continue the small talk when she heard footsteps coming down the staircase outside of the dining room. Harry heard the steps too and looked to the door to see Neville Longbottom walk through. Harry wished him for his birthday. The two teens exchanged pleasantries for a few minutes before their meals arrived thanks to the house elves. The three ate in relative silence with little snippets of conversation thrown in. Once their meals were finished, the three made their way to the large study Harry had seen when he arrived at the manor to relax and talk some more about themselves.

Neville told him that only the close family members were invited. Harry felt touched to know that he was invited in what was apparently a family gathering and told them so but the elder witch waved it off saying that Potters were almost family. Augusta Longbottom was surprised when Harry acknowledged the fact that he knew Alice was his godmother. He also expressed his wish to visit Neville's parents at St. Mungos. The witch promised to take him the next time they visited the hospital. They talked some more until Madam Longbottom had to go for some work. After that Neville took him outside the manor to show the grounds, specially the Greenhouses which he himself took care of. They roamed around the estate while talking about inconsequential things. It was almost time for his relatives to arrive, so Neville showed Harry to a guestroom and left for his own room. Harry got dressed in the wizarding robes for dinner.

The evening passed without any problems. Harry got to know that of the main line of Longbottoms, only Neville and his gran survived. The guests were from distant branches of the family. Harry was welcomed by the family members. Infact no one was surprised to see a Potter in their family gathering. Harry was surprised to know that all of them knew his Grandfather Charlus Potter personally. They told him that his grandfather retired from his post of Head of Aurors after the war with Grindelwald ended. He led the Aurors during the war quite well. After that he was quite active in politics. Most of them also said that he could have easily become the Minister of Magic if he wanted but he didn't want to be held by any responsibilities.

One individual that Harry was determined to remember was Neville's Great Uncle Algie. He was a tall blonde haired man with a goatee. He was the elder brother of Lady Longbottom. Neville had informed him that he was an Unspeakable and that had aroused Harry's interest in him. Uncle Algie as he was called by Neville was actually Algerson Croaker. He was a very cheerful person with always a smile on his face. Since Harry knew that his mother was also an unspeakable, he wanted to know more about the work they were supposed to do. The elder wizard didn't disappoint him. He answered all the questions as best as he could. Harry learned that unspeakable were very secretive of their work. Harry was disappointed to know that Mr Croaker didn't personally know his mother as she was in the research department but was still thankful about the knowledge. After dinner Neville received quite a few gifts from his family. Harry too gifted him with a subscription of Neville's favourite Herbology magazine for the next year.

After the party, Harry said his goodbyes to the Longbottoms promising to stay in contact and entered the fireplace while shouting "CLEARWATER FARMHOUSE" as he threw the floo powder. After a great deal of spinning, he landed on his back, covered in soot, in a living room. As soon as he got up, he heard a shout of his name and found himself once again on the floor as he felt somebody colliding with him. His vision was obscured by curly golden brown hair which Harry quickly identified as Penelope's. He laughed out aloud and returned the hug with as much enthusiasm to his pseudo-sister. Finally after squeezing the life out of each other, both of them got up.

Penelope then dragged him to the sitting room where rest of her family was sitting. It seemed all of them had just finished dinner. Harry kissed Anne's hand in greeting while bowing and shook hands with William, Penelope's father and Justin, her elder brother. Having met Justin for the first time, Harry felt quite impressed by his physique. Justin was six feet eight with heavy muscles and without an ounce of fat that made him look quite intimidating.

They all talked for a little while before finally they retired for the night. Penelope showed him to the Guest room which was on the first floor and waved him goodnight. Harry looked around to find himself in a medium sized room with a four poster bed along with a study table in one corner and a wardrobe on the other side. Harry just took out his nightclothes from his trunk not bothering to unpack since he was feeling very tired. He fell asleep as soon as he hit the pillows.

Harry felt as though he had barely lain down to sleep when he was being shaken awake by Penelope. He sat on his to find her dressed in nightclothes too. She smiled at him, hugged him hard and said

"Happy Birthday little bro!"

She then pointed towards the table where a very small chocolate cake sat surrounded by twelve colored candles. Harry felt quite touched with her gesture and looked at Penelope questioningly. She just smiled and said cheerfully

"Its twelve o'clock sleepy head and you are now officially twelve years old. So just make a wish, blow the candles and cut the cake."

Harry's face split into a smile as he jumped out the bed and took the knife offered by the witch and followed what she had told him to do. They had their private small party that night. Later, Penelope told him that she had made the cake herself. Harry appreciated the gesture and thanked her again and again. She also gave him a gift. Harry excitedly opened the package to find a photo frame carrying four snaps of both of them. One was of them studying together; other was of Penelope teaching Harry a spell. The next one was of Harry and Penelope sleeping on the couch while leaning on each other with books in their laps in the common room. The last one was of both of them throwing snowballs at each other in the school grounds.

Harry just stared at the gift for few minutes. All the while Penelope was fidgeting while wondering if Harry liked her gift. As Harry looked up, Penelope found herself looking at the beautiful emerald green eyes brimmed with tears. Harry didn't say anything, just lunged himself at her and hugged her while sniffing. Penelope just patted him on the back while hugging him, knowing that Harry wasn't used to people loving him. After few minutes, Harry disentangled himself and while looking down murmured an apology.

"What are you apologizing for? You haven't done anything wrong Harry." Penelope asked.

"Thanks for the gift Penelope. It's the best gift I've ever received." Harry said.

"I'm happy that you like it. I was thinking on what to give you for the first time on your birthday, and then finally chose this one for my little brother." She said while ruffling his hair.

They talked some more for an hour until both felt quite sleepy. Penelope went to her room and Harry once again fell asleep but this time with a broad grin on his face.

Next day Harry woke up as his alarm for Quidditch Practice sounded off. He quickly headed to the bathroom in the hallway to get freshened up for the day. After getting dressed, he headed towards the sitting room to find Penelope sitting on a couch reading from a magazine. As she saw him, a smile appeared on her face as she got up to give him a quick hug while wishing him again. She asked

"It's time for you to head for your camp, right?"

"I will return by noon." Harry nodded to her and replied.

He then took his portkey and landed at the camp. Practice went as usual. In the end though, Harry got a surprise. Everyone in the camp had gathered as the teammates had thrown him a huge party. Everyone enjoyed the party and danced around. The adults drank firewhiskey while under-aged settled for butterbeer. They danced around and had a lot of fun. All his teammates had contributed to give him a full Quidditch gear as a gift. From the administration, Harry received his own crate of premium Quidditch Balls, that too of professional level as a birthday gift. Thankfully it could shrink with just a tap of wand. Harry thanked everyone profusely for the surprise party. Finally Harry took his leave and portkeyed to Penelope's home.

As he reached the farmhouse he found Penelope waiting for him. They had a quick lunch during which Harry told her all about the surprise birthday party. After lunch he showed her the gifts he received at the party. Penelope was understandably awed at seeing the expensive gifts and ooh'ed and aah'ed at right intervals. She herself was a huge enthusiast of Quidditch. After that Penelope took him for a tour of the farmhouse.

The farmhouse was quite big with a stable as well. The main house was not very big. It only had two storey. The garden around it was well maintained. There was also a bit of vegetation in the fields. There were only agricultural fields along with few houses in the neighborhood. Since the farmhouse was away from cities, the quietness it provided was very soothing. They wandered around the grounds for hours till finally both of them decided to head towards the house as it was getting dark. As both of them entered the house, they found themselves engulfed in total darkness.

"Lets go towards the sitting room. We have got few candles there." Came Penelope's voice through the darkness."

"Okay" Harry headed in that direction.

As they reached the sitting room, Harry waited as Penelope searched for the candles. He was still standing when suddenly there was a huge shout of "SURPRISE!" and in an instant whole room was alighted with all kinds of lightening. Then he was engulfed in a hug from all sides. He adjusted his eyes for the sudden change and himself surrounded with all his study group friends along with his teammates of house Quidditch team. Right now he was in a hug from Padma, Hermione, Su and Morag, all at once. After they all left him, everyone else wished him. Terry, Anthony, Neville and Blaise just shook his hand and patted him on the back while wishing him happy birthday while Susan, Hannah, Daphne and Tracey all gently hugged him in greeting. His teammates were of other mind as they just held him while throwing him up and down. Clearwaters also greeted him.

After the greetings, all of them took Harry towards the table on which a huge cake was placed. Harry was filled with extreme happiness at seeing all his friends. He cut the cake while everyone sang the birthday song for him at full volume. This was the first time he remembered getting a proper birthday party and he decided to enjoy it to the fullest. For the next few hours, all the friends danced together, played games and had a lot of fun. Harry received an overwhelming amount of gifts from his friends. He also received gifts from his teachers namely McGonagall, Flitwick and Dumbledore. He also got feathers of rare wildlife as gift from Hagrid. He could make quills for himself from these feathers.

He received books, candies, chocolates, different Quidditch assortments and joke products among various gifts. He thanked each of them for coming to his birthday party. He came to know that it was basically Hermione, Padma and Penelope who had planned the whole party. The decorations were made while Penelope was showing him the grounds. As it became late, everyone departed to their home while wishing Harry for the last time. After that only the Clearwaters and Harry were left. Harry thanked all of them for arranging the party. All of them just accepted this with a smile on their faces.

Next few weeks went normally. On the weekdays, Harry went to the camp and after that spent the whole day either with Penelope or finishing homework or practicing Wandless magic. Sometimes he and Penelope went out in the muggle world to watch movies, go for grocery shopping or just to hang out. On the weekends though, the Clearwaters took Harry to the historical places all around Magical Britain. It was usually a fun time hanging out with them as Harry never felt like a guest in their home. He helped Anne with the cooking (which everyone appreciated a lot) and participated in the few chores of the house.

During his stay, Harry learned different modes of transportation from William and the useful tips to travel gracefully. Now he no longer stumbled after travelling with floo or portkey and could sit in a comfortable way in the Knight Bus. He also flew a bit on the Magical carpet which William told him was actually illegal but that didn't stop him from giving Harry a ride. Harry was introduced to one more new thing; kick-boxing. Penelope's brother Justin showed him few moves after which Harry asked to be taught in it. In return Harry started teaching him Martial arts. So every day they used to train for an hour. This made sure Harry kept up with his practice of Martial Arts while learning a new way of defending as well as attacking.

Two weeks before the end of vacations, Harry, Penelope and Anne visited Diagon Alley to get their school supplies. They first went to the Gringotts to withdraw money and after that purchased the supplies. In the end only books were left. As they approached it, they saw to their surprise a large crowd jostling outside the doors, trying to get in. The reason for this was proclaimed by a large banner stretched across the upper windows:

GILDEROY LOCKHART

Will be signing copies of his autobiography

MAGICAL ME

Today 12:30 P.m. to 4:30 P.m.

Through the crowd they headed inside to get their course material. Anne and Penelope went away to browse the books telling him to meet at the counter in an hour. Harry started to get the required books. He was looking in the Charms section when he was tapped at the shoulder. He turned around to find himself looking at a tall, slim, nice looking and pale woman with blue eyes and long blonde hair. She was dressed in expensive robes and gave off a regal aura. Harry looked at her with confusion and asked

"Can I help you?"

Her mouth just twitched lightly while she replied in a soft voice

"Hello Mr. Potter. I am your cousin, Narcissa."

Harry's eyes widened in recognition and he quickly bowed to her while kissing her hand lightly.

"I apologize for not recognizing you Miss Narcissa. And thanks for replying to my letter."

She just smiled kindly and said

"I can understand why you didn't recognize me. And please drop the formal act. We are cousins Mr. Potter. You may just call me Narcissa."

"Then please call me Harry, just Harry."

"So, Harry ready for your second year? I was quite surprised when my son told me that you were sorted in Ravenclaw. Potters usually are Gryffindors." She said.

"Your son?" Harry asked, surprised.

"Oh, you don't know my son Draco?" she asked, surprised herself.

"You are the mother of Draco Malfoy?" Harry asked, shocked.

Narcissa actually smiled at his expressions and said

"Yes Harry, Draco is my son. I am now Narcissa Malfoy-nee-Black."

"Sorry I just knew your name before marriage. I hope you are not offended." He said sheepishly.

The witch just waved off his apologies. They talked a bit more about Harry's experience in the Wizarding world till now until it was time for Narcissa to depart.

"I am really sorry to cut this nice meeting short but I have an appointment somewhere Harry. But I would like to invite you for lunch at my home next Friday." Narcissa said.

Harry thought for a few moments while thinking of anything else he had planned until finally he accepted the offer. Narcissa quickly wrote down the floo address and gave it to him. She gave him a light hug and went outside the door. Harry had already got all his course books except DADA so he headed towards that section.

A shout of his name made him look towards the source of the voice. He found himself looking at a wizard who was surrounded by a huge crowd which was mostly composed of females. Harry recognized him from the numerous photo frames that were in the bookshop as Gilderoy Lockhart. He was wearing robes of forget-me-not blue that exactly matched his eyes; his pointed wizard's hat was set at a jaunty angle on his wavy hair. Lockhart dived forward, seized Harry's arm, and pulled him to the front. The crowd burst into applause. Harry's face burned as Lockhart shook his hand for the photographer, who was clicking away madly.

"Nice big smile, Harry," said Lockhart, through his own gleaming teeth.

"Together, you and I are worth the front page."

When he finally let go of Harry's hand, Harry could hardly feel his fingers. Lockhart threw an arm around his shoulders and clamped him tightly to his side.

"Ladies and gentlemen," he said loudly, waving for quiet. "What an extraordinary moment this is! The perfect moment for me to make a little announcement I've been sitting on for some time! When young Harry here stepped into Flourish and Blotts today, he only wanted to buy my autobiography -which I shall be happy to present him now, free of charge-" The crowd applauded again.

"He had no idea," Lockhart continued, giving Harry a little shake, "that he would shortly be getting much, much more than my book, Magical Me. He and his schoolmates will, in fact, be getting the real magical me. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I have great pleasure and pride in announcing that this September; I will be taking up the post of Defense against the Dark Arts teacher at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry!"

The crowd cheered and clapped and Harry found himself being presented with the entire works of Gilderoy Lockhart signed by him. Staggering slightly under their weight, he managed to make his way out of the limelight to the edge of the room, where he could see Anne looking at him in awe while Penelope smirking at him and shaking her head slightly. Harry shook his head irritated while handing over all the 'gifted' books to Anne, who Harry could see was a fan of Lockhart. She tried to refuse half-heartedly but Harry forced her to accept it. He got a tight hug from Anne as she excitedly looked through the books.

"Not a single word Penelope." He said warningly as he could see she was about to start teasing him. She held up her hands in surrender at seeing him and they quickly headed for the counter. They finished their trip with an ice-cream at the Florean Fortescue's Ice-Cream Parlor.

Next week Harry browsed through his books finding that he already knew most of the stuff. He also came to a conclusion that there was nothing worth reading in the Lockhart books. On Friday Harry got properly dressed in the Wizarding robes as he had to attend lunch at Malfoy Manor. When he told Clearwaters about the invitation, they all told him to tread very carefully. William told him that Lucius was a convicted follower of Lord Voldemort and only got off because of his wealth citing Imperious curse as his reason of committing crimes. William also admitted the fact that Lucius was one of the most important members of Wizengamot and if Harry could take him in confidence, it will only be a bonus in future.

Anne told him that Narcissa was member of elite society of witches and was considered quite powerful in station as well as magical power. She was involved quite heavily in the charity functions including those in St. Mungos because of which Anne knew about her. Harry took these advices seriously and flooed to their Manor. It was located in the southern English country of Wiltshire. As Harry gracefully walked out of the fireplace, he found himself in a wide proportioned room. A crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling, more portraits against the dark purple walls. Suddenly a house-elf popped in front of him and led him towards a couch.

Harry had just sat on it when Narcissa came. He greeted her with a hug and they settled down. They chatted a little and then she led him towards a Dining Hall. It had a huge Dining table which could accommodate almost twenty people at once. Harry found Mr. Malfoy and Draco entering the hall from other side. They headed towards him.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well as host you for Lunch, Mr. Potter." Mr. Malfoy said softly while shaking his hand. Draco too shook his hand in greeting.

They headed towards the table and had a grand lunch. The amount of food put on the table was so much that Harry doubted even the Dursleys would be able to finish in a week. They ate their lunch after which all of them settled in a sitting room. Mr. Malfoy asked him about his days in Hogwarts. Harry told him that he enjoyed his time and had made quite a few friends.

Slowly the talk shifted towards blood-purity. Harry knew Lucius Malfoy was a huge supporter of 'Pureblood Supremacy'. When he was asked about it Harry very carefully replied

"I am very new to the society so I don't know all the facts. At his moment the only thing I can say that I am against the notion of killing muggles because they admittedly outnumber us by 200:1. Add the fact that their technology has seen a rapid growth in the last century with which we can't compete. I am also against the thought of magical and muggle world co-existing with each other. That can never happen as muggles would try to terminate us as soon as they know about our existence. If they can fight a war which leads to thousands of muggles getting killed just for the sake of natural resources then how could one expect them to let us live and share the resources? Some other thought needs to be introduced in order to make sure that magical world continue to exist for many more centuries."

When Harry finished his response, Harry saw that Lucius didn't seem to agree fully while Draco was thinking deeply about what he said. On the other hand Narcissa was looking at him with a small smile on her face.

"Hmm….you Mr. Potter have a different view of things but atleast you don't think like some other incompetent fools who act as though we should offer our world to them on a silver patter. Just look at those Weasleys, those blood-traitors don't have brain but still shout the loudest, as if anyone wants their opinion." Mr Malfoy sneered while spitting out about the Weasleys.

They talked a bit more after which Mr. Malfoy took his leave. Draco then invited for a bit of flying which Harry accepted. They flew for an hour on the impressive Quidditch field that was on the backside of the Manor. As they landed, Draco went to his room and Harry headed towards Narcissa who was waiting for him along with tea. She told him of how impressed she was with his answers to her husband. For the next hour, they talked a bit about their families. Harry found that Andromeda had married a Muggleborn because of which she was blasted off the family tree. After that incident, Narcissa never talked to her.

Harry mentioned that he was still learning about the most basic things of Wizarding culture and wanted to make sure that he was prepared to take the responsibility of becoming a Lord when the time comes. Narcissa offered to send him a list of tutors who taught the children of well-respected families the etiquettes and manners, politics, accounts management, proper Wizengamot procedures and history of prominent families of wizarding world for which Harry thanked her. Finally it was time for Harry to go, so he took his leave.

Next few days went off normally and Harry started getting excited because he knew that very soon he will be heading towards his home. He couldn't wait for the first of September.

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