JK Rowling Owns Harry Potter

FASA Owns Earthdawn

Harry's fifth year will begin the major split from canon. Many of the events that happened in canon will still occur, but not necessarily in a way that Harry knows about or is affected by.

Welcome to Harry's fifth year.

The last chapter began a new page in Harry's life. His magic is damaged to a point that he can't use it. For a visual, think of an immense legal document. Now run it through an industrial shredder. Then, for good measure, run the pieces through again sideways. You might be able to piece together a few strands, but you're not going to be able to really understand the document.

With his magical pattern so shredded, Harry cannot enter his dreamscape or cast spells or even fly a broom reliably. He is adjusting to life without magic, and surprisingly, it's not that bad. Harry is on good terms now with the Dursleys and is kind of enjoying a simple life. He had rebuffed numerous attempts at apology and has no desire to ever see Hogwarts again.

Dudley has taken him to his gym and arranged for a trainer. Harry is learning to box as a 'flyweight' and has taken to it quite well. It is a natural extension of his dueling training. After getting his bell rung by Dudley, he even has a new nickname: Whiplash. It's growing on him. He tried his hand at golf, but he found it over the top frustrating. After a brilliant meltdown over a five-putt, he decided to just enjoy the driving range. He has taken a few group lessons and has gotten rather consistent with his irons and driver. It's a stress reliever.

Petunia has big plans for playing tennis with Harry in her garden club league. To that end, she has arranged private lessons with the local tennis pro and signed Harry up. Dudley tells him to run, but Harry actually thinks he might enjoy it. Speed and coordination. It can't be worse than golf…

Sirius was found innocent in Switzerland and granted asylum he has lined up a trial in late August in Britain. He has begun suing the pureblood families that is causing all kinds of turmoil. Due to old magical contracts, the pureblood families have to pay up or have their magic suffer. The result has been quite destabilizing. Even Minister Fudge is named in a suit over Sirius' unlawful incarceration.

Due to Voldemort's return, Sirius has held off from going after Dumbledore directly. He figures the man needs to stay focused. But he still plans to separate him from Harry very soon. Harry is waiting patiently…

Note: Parseltongue is designated with the § symbol and italic script. For example: §"Parseltongue §

Chapter 21 –A Rose, a Tree, and a Marauder

—Dance of Death—

Diagon Alley

London

Saturday, August 5, 1995

11:00AM

Today Harry is visiting the Weasley family for a birthday party in his honor. Wanting to get a little cash, Harry was picked up by Bill and taken to Diagon Alley. Wearing muggle clothes and a hoodie gave Harry a bit of anonymity. They didn't discuss anything particularly weighty on the way, just odds and ends. They took a cab to Mrs. Figg's house and Floo'd to the Leaky Cauldron. Harry did take a moment to play with the cats and talked a bit with Mrs. Figg. She had a pregnant Kneazle and Harry offered to come by and help when she began to give birth. Mrs. Figg always seemed to care about Harry.

Once in Diagon Alley, Harry and Bill went to Bell's restaurant. It was only eleven, so they should be able to get a quiet spot. Walking in, Harry immediately saw Katie working as a hostess. Damn! He really didn't want to see anyone. While he was pausing and trying to decide if he should say anything, she locked eyes with him.

"Harry!" Katie's face lit up and came over to him. She pulled him into a 'Hermione hug' that only made him feel more uncomfortable. "How are you? You look so much better…"

Harry didn't remember seeing Katie. Everyone was gone when he came out of his coma in the infirmary. Wait, did that mean she had seen him when he was in a coma? With his face bandaged up? Shite! Bloody Dumbledore!

Harry was annoyed, but mostly embarrassed. It came across in his quiet response, "Hi, Katie. I'm feeling better. Oh, and thanks for the pies, they've made the summer bearable…" Harry loved her family's shepherd's pies. What had he said in his letter to her? Something generic probably.

"What brings you to the Alley, Harry?" Katie was so bright and cheerful. Why couldn't he be more like her? His brooding even depressed himself at times.

Katie's interest seemed sincere. Still, Harry hated sharing so much. He really just wanted to grab a quick and quiet bite and get the lowdown on 'happenings' from Bill.

"I just need to make a withdrawal from Gringotts. I thought Bill and I might grab a quick lunch… If you have anything out of the way. I don't want to be recognized." Harry made an exaggerated wince while saying he didn't want to be recognized. He noted that Bill was quiet the entire time.

"Sure thing, Harry! Follow me." She led them to a back area. The back room is where private parties are usually held, but she thought it would be good for Harry to be out of the way. She had read the paper and knew how the press would react if Harry was spotted. They would hound him and ruin his day. "I'll come check on you guys in a bit." With a cheerful smile, she was off.

After she left, Bill just looked at Harry. "So… looks like you have a few friends." Maybe Harry would smile a bit more.

He knew Bill was worried about him socially, he found it annoying. "Yeah, Bill. I have a few friends. I'd like to keep it that way. The fewer, the better." Harry noted Bill seemed a bit disappointed, but didn't say anything. "Any news you can share?"

"Where to start…" Bill cast a quick 'Muffliato' spell for privacy. "OK, Sirius is eager for his trial in Britain, so he can return permanently. It's scheduled for August 25th and he has arranged for a guard detail. Well, Andromeda arranged for it. The Malfoy block has been stripped of any voting rights as the Black family proxy and he has greatly impacted their wealth with the lawsuits. Preparing for and waging a war takes money, and the deatheater families suddenly have a lot less than they did a month ago. It's hard to bribe and influence votes with wishes and promises." Bill gave an amused shrug at that.

Harry smiled. He remembered the way the deatheaters acted in the graveyard. Arrogant and full of themselves. Watching him roll around on the ground under the cruciatus curse. Now they are the ones rolling around. Writhing in pain over the loss of their money. Serves them right.

Bill continued, "Sirius has done more damage to Voldemort supporters than Dumbledore ever managed. He was given an ICW sanctioned hearing in Switzerland and passed with flying colors. It was noted internationally that he was given veritaserum and questioned intensively. His innocence aligns with Pettigrew's testimony and there are numerous voices calling for the families that 'claimed imperious' to be given veritaserum. The fact that the deatheater families had to pay Sirius for supporting Voldemort is another strike against them. Most of Britain now thinks they got off through bribery and corruption. Foreign publications are all over it. Fudge is trying to act like he was tricked and the Bagnold administration was to blame, but no one is really fooled. The minister is obviously trying to save his own skin."

Loving the news, Harry looked at his friend and mentor and proclaimed, "Bill, you made my day." Then he asked, "What about Sirius, is he alright?"

Bill then discussed Sirius directly, "The man is going stir crazy in Switzerland. Dumbledore is trying to get him a mind healer, but Sirius is refusing." Bill seemed to want to say more, but was hesitating.

Harry looked at his closest friend closely. Something else is going on. "I don't understand. Why doesn't he want to see a mind healer? I mean, wouldn't it help? The man went through hell." Something was definitely off.

"Yeah. Sirius thinks Dumbledore will be petitioning to keep your guardianship and getting mind healing would work against him. Either that or he wants to prevent Sirius from gaining access to the Wizengamot. Or so he thinks."

"Shite! Of course he would! That damn meddler. He just can't leave well enough alone. There's nothing wrong with Sirius that a little time and attention won't cure."

Bill paused a moment. "No, Harry. Sirius is pretty messed up." Bill had a guilty look on his face, "I know you don't want to hear this, but he's in no state to be your guardian. But he still thinks he can pull it off."

Harry looked shell shocked, "You were all on board a few months ago. What…" Bill gently held up his hand, stopping him. He was in mentor mode now.

"I still intend to get you away from Dumbledore, but I want it to be the earlier plan. The one where your guardianship is with the Tonks family. Sirius keeps changing the plan." Seeing Harry stunned, Bill added, "It's for his own good Harry. The man is really messed up. Wakes up screaming… paranoid fears about dementors… and he really has an unhealthy axe to grind. It's like he's no longer grounded in reality."

Harry thought about it. "So, what do we do?" He wouldn't put his needs ahead of Sirius'.

"We convince him to get help. Ted is willing to file immediately for your magical guardianship to be moved to his wife, Andromeda. Once Sirius gets help, and he is pronounced ready… guardianship can be moved." Bill watched Harry closely. This is where the boy might lose his cool. Surprisingly, he didn't. Was a large measure of Harry's volatility centered on the Horcrux? Had it been a driver in his frequently explosive personality?

Harry ran his hand through his hair. "I don't want Sirius to… If he needs to get help, he should." Crap! Why is it always so bloody difficult?

Bill could see Harry deflate. Today they were supposed to be celebrating, time to change gears. "Hey, put it behind you. We'll just adjust our plans. You will be free of Dumbledore soon, I guarantee it." Seeing the young teen scowl, he added, "And I know the Tonks family, you'll like them. Really. Especially Nymphadora… but don't call her that. She's kind of psycho about it."

With a wry grin, Harry said, "Great, my potential new guardians have a psychotic daughter. Like I don't have enough psycho's in my life."

At that, Bill laughed. Katie brought the butterbeer, a tankard of ale for Bill and two enormous shepherd's pies. Katie lingered a bit, but it was kind of awkward. She couldn't think of anything to say and neither could Harry. Eventually she set a dessert menu on the table and left.

Bill suddenly got a bit serious, "You know Ron and the twins will be at the party, right? I think mum invited Neville and Luna too. And Hermione. Are you ok with that?" He knew Harry had written to a few friends, but this may be a bit much. Especially with the way Ron and the twins had acted.

Harry thought about it for a minute, "Well, Ron let me down, but he's your family. The twins too. I can make nice. The rest stuck by me."

"Just be nice, Harry. You know Ron and the twins were affected by the scar, right?"

"I know, but both twins weren't affected. One forced the other not to sign that Declarement of… what was it? Eiectio?" Why can't anything be in simple English? "Ron's got massive jealousy issues or the scar wouldn't have loved him so much."

After an awkward pause, Harry continued, "I can let it go, for you and Ginny… but I don't see myself ever trusting any of them again." With a shrug, Harry finished with, "And who cares? I won't be going back to Hogwarts. Did you know they took my wand? Dumbledore said he'd lobby to have it returned or something. I'm not expecting anything."

Bill tilted his head and asked, "You know you can still get your OWLs. Right? You don't need to be able to perform magic to get enough OWLs to be 'legal'. Then they'll have to give you back your wand."

"Wait, what? How… I don't understand. I need five OWLs to be a legal member of Wizarding Britain, right?"

"That's right. So, we could focus on Muggle Studies, History, Arithmancy, Ancient Runes, and Herbology. Maybe even Care of Magical Creatures. Minimal wand work involved in any of those subjects, and you could easily get an 'Acceptable' on the written portions alone. Harry, you could test in Muggle Studies, Arithmancy, Ancient Runes today and pass with flying colors." Seeing Harry start to protest, he added, "Yeah, you can't power up the runes, but you could still get an Acceptable even if you failed the practical portion."

Harry began seriously considering his options.

Bill pressed forward while Harry was considering it. "We could add Astronomy or Divination if you'd like… but why go overboard?" Seeing Harry looking conflicted, he added, "We can make it home study so you wouldn't need to go to Hogwarts. You'd have to go there for your OWL exams, but that's it."

Harry shook off thoughts of magic. "I had planned to go to Smeltings with Dudley." Seeing Bill's surprise, he added, "Why delay the inevitable? I'm practically a muggle now anyway." Enough is enough. The wizarding world can fight their own monsters. He could live without his wand. He didn't need any of their pity.

Bill had an odd look, "Well, think about it."

Bill knew If Harry wants to stay with Ginny, he'll need to be a part of the magical world. Same with his inheritance. No point bringing that up today. Harry really had no choice, but it would be best if he came to that conclusion on his own. Bill knew exactly how to steer Harry without making him feel powerless. Dumbledore never figured that out.

When they wrapped up their lunch, Katie informed them it was on the house. Harry thanked her. As they walked out of the restaurant to leave, a few people recognized Harry and whispering started. Well, at least they were leaving. Harry tried not to listen, but he couldn't help but hear a few of the comments. "Squib" "Poor boy" "Serves him right…" "So sad" "Look at his clothes" "I think it's a muggle" and other comments.

Making his withdrawal from Gringotts was a miserable affair. The cup was displayed where all could see it, but he wasn't mentioned. It was a 'Gringotts' victory. So much for 'Eternal Glory'. The tellers gave him no preferential service, and they were there for nearly three hours! Harry finally asked to see Director Ragnok, but Ragnok refused to see him, sending word that he was too busy. The Goblins had loved him when he had magic, but now he was just yesterday's news. Little bastards.

Bill had warned him, and Ragnok's refusal to aid and assist after the fourth task had really stung. Still, Harry remembered being so proud of his curse-breaker uniform. They were just toying with him. Building him up to make themselves look good. He did want his kukri knife back, however. He'd have to write Dumbledore for it.

—Dance of Death—

The Burrow

Saturday, August 5, 1995

3:30PM

Bill and Harry arrived at the Burrow and Harry could sense the magic of the place, but he had learned to keep it from causing him discomfort. Otherwise, they would have to celebrate outside.

As Harry walked in, he was mobbed by the family. Well, most of the family. Percy wasn't there at all, no great loss. Ron and the twins held back a bit, looking awkwardly embarrassed. They obviously regretted their behavior and didn't seem to know what to do or how to act. The twins huddled together as they did when under scrutiny. Ron just stared at his feet. All three had written to him, but Harry tossed the letters into the bin. He just ignored them.

Ginny gave him a big hug and her mother followed suit. Charlie hung back, but was as warm as ever. He was a good natured guy. Kind of like his father. Speaking of which, Mr. Weasley came over and warmly greeted Harry. The man was such a calming influence. Soon Hermione arrived with Neville and Professor Lupin. Luna showed up soon after. Harry was ushered to the table where a huge cake was brought out. Fifteen candles on top, with 'one to grow on'.

He was given a study guide from Hermione, sweets from Ginny, an obscure book on Hittite runes from Bill, and joke gifts from the twins and Ron. Harry was polite to them, but not exactly warm. More formal than in the past. He went through the motions for the sake of the other Weasleys. Luna gave him a book on magical creatures of the South Pole. It was surprising how many there were. Was there really an ice dragon? Charlie gave him a dragon fang knife. Apparently, it came from the Hungarian Horntail he had gotten past in the tournament. Charlie explained that dragons shed their teeth regularly and he picked this one up for him. It had a serrated edge on one side and a nice pint to it. The base had been worked into a handle. Not as sharp or well-balanced as a steel knife, but much cooler. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley gave him a set of Encyclopedias. They were the 1995 Encyclopedia Britannica collection. Hermione must have helped them pick it out. It was an amazing set.

In the end, Harry thanked everyone and the group settled into a relaxed afternoon. While looking through his books, Harry suddenly noticed everyone had stopped talking. Looking up, he realized why. Albus Dumbledore and Amelia Bones had entered the house. Mr. Weasley looked irritated and Mrs. Weasley looked pleased. Bill looked like he was ready to explode.

Dumbledore walked over and held out a gift to Harry. "Happy Birthday, Harry."

Harry shook his head, "Keep it. I don't want anything to do with you or your school." Looking at the pair, he added, "That goes for you too, Director Bones."

Everyone grew quiet. Dumbledore softly said, "Harry, this gift is from your parents. I assume it was to be presented when you turned seventeen, but I thought you might like it sooner."

Harry paused a moment, then took the gift. He sadly realized that even his vaults aren't off limits to Dumbledore. He vowed to contact Sirius and discuss getting the ball moving on his separation from the old man as soon as possible.

Without a word, Harry opened the gift. It was a lovely pocket watch with the Potter coat of arms on it. It also had HJP inscribed on it, leaving no doubt that t was intended for him.

Dumbledore spoke up and said, "Hold it to your ear and press the winding mechanism."

Harry did, and a female voice told him the time. It likely was intended to be used in the dark. But whose voice was it. It had seemed… kind of familiar. Repeating the process, a male voice then gave the time.

Albus was watching him intently. "Those are your parent's voices, Harry. They made that for you before they went into hiding." His eyes were twinkling away, but in this instance, Harry didn't mind.

He managed to say, "Thank you." This was a stunningly wonderful gift. Ginny took his hand.

Dumbledore used this touching moment to ask, "Harry, if I could take a moment of your time. I need to discuss the coming school year with you."

Bill spoke up, "Albus, not today. Let Harry have a quiet birthday party." Internally, Bill was begging him not to push Harry. The day would be ruined by well-intentioned pressure.

Dumbledore ignored Bill and pressed on, "This will only take a moment." He pulled out a sheet of paper and handed it to Harry, "Harry, I've put together a special wandless studies program with you in mind. With this, you will be able to take your OWLs at the end of the year."

Harry read the paper and realized it was a course listing. "No. I'm done with this. Magic is no longer something I plan to pursue." There. Direct and to the point.

Dumbledore looked sad, but shook his head and said, "Alas, I'm afraid this is required. You need to achieve five owls to remain in our world. To inherit from your family vault."

Harry made like a fish for a moment. Gaping and moving his mouth. Bill groaned. What the hell.

Harry finally found his voice, "Wait a minute, Squibs are part of the wizarding world and they don't need OWLs. Besides, the money in the vaults is mine. Who do you think you are, you damn thief?" The accusation just burst out. He was still dwelling on Dumbledore getting into his vaults.

Mrs. Weasley gasped. "Harry, Professor Dumbledore is not a thief. He's trying to help you." She was bbviously surprised at his reaction. Everyone seemed to be. Everyone except Bill.

Mr. Weasley stepped in with a touch on his wife's shoulder. "Harry. Squibs have a set of legal protections that don't apply here. I'm sorry, I thought you knew you had to get your OWLs." He glanced briefly at Bill. It was very subtle, but Harry caught it.

Harry looked at Bill, "So that's what you were hinting about at lunch." There was no denying the hurt in his voice. The look of powerlessness. "What if I just say no?"

Bill took the point before Dumbledore could botch things up. "If you say no, what's left of your magic would be bound. You and your cousins would be obliviated." Seeing the shock on Harrys face, he added, "Harry, I wanted to discuss this with you in depth, but not on your birthday." The last part was directed at Dumbledore with an angry look.

Harry looked at Amelia, "And what do you want? Are you here to threaten me as well?"

Amelia looked deeply disturbed and said, "No, Mr. Potter. I have an offer to make. But, given the way this discussion is going, it will keep."

Harry shook his head, "Let's just get it over with. What's your offer?" The tone was flat and without any warmth at all.

With a deep breath, Amelia made her offer, "I want to offer to re-instate the Potter-Bones alliance. You would be under the protection of the Bones family and could move into the Bones manor. No force on earth could get to you within the manor, so your safety would be guaranteed."

Bill spoke up, "Wait, you kill the alliance with deception, then want to re-instate it? We already know you have to protect Harry. That part of the alliance is still in effect. The wards on Bones Manor crumbled when you broke the alliance and are were replaced with standard wards… powerful, but not impenetrable."

Amelia seemed annoyed, but also embarrassed. Obviously this would not be as easy. "We could re-instate the alliance and the wards would come back up. The foundational matrix is still there, it just needs an infusion to reintegrate." She didn't add that the foundational matrix would crumble beyond repair in another three months.

Harry suddenly did something unexpected. He laughed. Long and hard. "So your wards are vulnerable and Voldemort is back. You've been going after all his supporters, and now you're a target. Bet you regret signing that 'no more alliance' document now." Suddenly growing serious, "Tell me about this infusion."

Bill answered before she could, "They want you to sacrifice your magic."

There were a few gasps. Even Mrs. Weasley seemed shocked.

Amelia suddenly blurted out, "You will be cared for! You will be loved and protected! Please, just consider it." She sounded sincere, but desperate. Harry suspected her desperation was, in part, originating from her magic punishing her for the deception last year. She had to help him and this would, in theory be a way to protect him.

Dumbledore glared at Bill briefly. He was putting two and two together. "Your magic is damaged beyond repair, Harry. This would provide you protection beyond even the blood wards on your Aunt and Uncle's house. The wards that currently will expire on your seventeenth birthday."

Harry huffed and said, "Sod off."

Amelia looked defeated and Dumbledore looked embarrassed. This had obviously not gone the way either had hoped.

Harry crumpled up the course schedule and added, "I'll be home schooling this year, so take this and shove it." He then threw it at Dumbledore, who nimbly caught it. Harry noted the man had amazing reflexes. He didn't even break eye contact.

Dumbledore then sighed deeply. "I'm sorry it has come to this, Harry. But as your guardian, I must insist."

"I'm not giving up my magic for you or her or anyone." 'Her' was referring to Amelia.

Dumbledore nodded briefly, "I understand. But I was referring to your education. I am still your magical guardian and I have the authority to require you to attend Hogwarts. It's for your own good, Harry." For what it was worth, Dumbledore was being regarded unsympathetically by everyone. He didn't even look happy with himself. Bill made eye contact with Harry and gave a very slight shake of his head. The meaning was clear. Say nothing.

Harry got up and walked out. He started to say something vile, but decided against it. Bill's look kept him from tipping his hand. He went into the woods on the edge of the Burrow. He needed to think.

—Dance of Death—

Harry walked through the woods, reflecting on how rotten an otherwise good day had turned. He knew there was a plan to get away from Dumbledore, but how much longer did he have to wait? He needed to get away now! He heard Bill stop Ginny when he stored out. 'Give him space' he had said. Bill always looked after him. What was he gonna to do?

Then he felt it. A sudden and subtle pull. He relaxed and followed it. About a hundred yards later, he was standing in front of an enormous oak tree. It was majestic. Perfect, in fact. He didn't know how long he marveled at it, but he knew he was somehow lost in the moment. Reaching up, he pulled down an acorn. It was perfect. He pulled the cap off of it and examined it. Finding a rock, he rubbed to sharp little point off the bottom, making it round. And he swallowed it without hesitation. It was kind of big, but he got it down.

Harry took a stick and began making runes in the soil. He didn't know why he was doing it, but he just knew he needed to complete it. He finished the rune mapping and lay down in the center. Focusing…

Harry found himself in an ancient forest. He knew he was dreaming, but this was so new. So different. He walked through the woods and realized it had a weird smell. It smelled like… blood. Once he became aware of it, he couldn't get away from the smell. It filled his nose, his mouth, his… everything. The more he walked, the closer he came to the source of the smell. Eventually, he stood before a rotten and twisted tree. It was a mockery of what it had once been. He slowly realized he was not alone. Standing beside him was his mother.

Lily looked at him and said, "Reach out, Harry. Place your hands on the tree."

Harry wanted to throw his arms around his mum. She was so beautiful! It had been so long since he had seen her in his dreamscape. But, he just listened. As though directed by a greater power, he placed both hands upon the tree.

He began reciting something. At first he thought it was just noise, but it kept coming. Over and over. It was a foreign language. A beautiful language he had never heard before. He somehow knew what he was saying even if he couldn't understand the words.

"Let the shattered purify the corrupt.

Let the corrupt restore the shattered."

Slowly, Harry opened his eyes.

He was in the Weasley home. Sitting up, Harry looked around and realized it was late. Bill and Mrs. Weasley were there.

Bill handed him a glass of water. "You OK, Harry?"

"Yeah, I guess I just needed a… nap?" What an odd thing to say. He needed more than a nap.

Mrs. Weasley smiled at him. "It's alright, Harry. This was not the kind of day I wanted you to have. I'm sorry about Albus… I'm just sorry."

Harry sat up and drank the water. "How did I get back here?"

Mrs. Weasley smiled and answered, "After a few hours we went looking for you, dear. You were sleeping in the woods near the old oak tree. Bill and Charlie carried you back. A good nap may have been exactly what you needed." She smiled broadly, but the smile didn't reach her eyes. She was obviously concerned.

Ginny came down stairs when she heard he was awake and they took a walk around the property. Hermione, Neville, and Luna all left after Harry stormed out. He felt bad, but given the circumstances… Harry knew he had to walk away before losing his cool. He and Ginny talked about it. Ginny admitted that she thought Harry needed to see someone to get past the terrible fourth year. She recommended her therapist and handed him a business card. Harry depressingly accepted it. What the hell… Everyone thought he needed a little help.

When they came back, dinner was served. Ron and the twins tried to make nice and Harry stoically accepted their overtures. For Ginny's sake. And Bill. There was a treacle tart at the end. Mr. Weasley had discussed the situation with Dumbledore and the man had agreed to home schooling as long as Harry came in and tested at Hogwarts. A midterm exam and the final OWL would be required. At least the day ended on a high note. He could go back to Hogwarts twice.

Bill took him back and they floo'd to Mrs. Figg's house. The sweet old lady gave him a book she said her husband had. It looked old and was full of arcane information. Bill let out a whistle and said something about 'serious combat magic'. Harry considered refusing, but he kept it. You never know…

He hugged the poor old lady and told her about his day. She listened sympathetically, but when harry talked about Dumbledore, she adopted an odd look. Sometimes sweet little Mrs. Figg could be just a tiny bit… scary.

—Dance of Death—

Malfoy Manor

Saturday, August 5, 1995

11:00PM

Lucius was in the library brooding. The Dark Lord had taken over his Manor, forcing he and his wife into a guest suite. He had also taken over Lucius' study. When the Dark Lord lost his temper, he destroyed Lucius' possessions. Some of which had been priceless art pieces and family heirlooms. His snake was slithering about, urinating and defecating all over the place. One of their house elves was missing and Lucius thought Nagini may have eaten his servant. House elves aren't cheap…

Since the Dark Lord had returned, Lucius was having to fund the war preparations. He was spending money far faster than he could hope to replenish it. Unfortunately, Sirius Black had dealt a terrible blow to his reputation and his wealth. Not only did he have to cover all the debts he had incurred against the Black estate, but he had massive reparations he was required to make or forfeit his magic. The way Arcturus had written those contracts made them air tight. For the thousandth time, Lucius wondered why he hadn't had Sirius eliminated when the man was imprisoned in Azkaban? Lucius estimated nearly forty percent of his fortune evaporated overnight. His wealth was near where it had been fourteen years ago, only now it was decreasing daily.

Most of the other deatheater families were now in a worse position financially, but at least they still had their manors to themselves. Lucius knew better than to suggest the Dark Lord leave. That would get him killed. He needed a cash infusion and he needed it soon. At this rate, he had maybe two years before his family would be in a difficult financial position. The Black estate was huge and, until recently, he had believed Draco to be the heir. He had counted on it. But with Sirius and Potter in the way, the Black fortune was currently out of his reach.

He needed a plan. He had to remove all road blocks to the Black estate. Otherwise, Malfoy would be another 'has-been' family. Draco and Narcissa had continued spending like a pair of aristocrats, but without the Black allowance, it was just another drain. He needed to take action. Sirius was too well protected in Switzerland, but he'd be back soon. Then, they would deal with him. And the Dark Lord would take the Potter brat.

—Dance of Death—

Narcissa was in her room reflecting on what had happened to her family. Well, she was not in 'her' room, but a guest suite. Last year, the Malfoy family had been at the top of Wizarding Society. Now, they were shunned. The truth had finally come out and the public treated them like lepers. Like deatheaters… No matter where they went, there were whispers and guarded looks. Whoever said 'the truth would set you free' was a damn fool.

Narcissa had tried to forget those dark days of the last war. Once Lucius took the mark, it affected him. It changed him in unexpected ways. He became short tempered and sadistic. It came on gradually, like a slow descent into insanity. That mark was far more than a tattoo. It corrupted from within.

She had been so naive and foolish. It had all started as a simple political movement, sav pureblood traditions. But it quickly turned violent and terrifying. Then, the Dark Lord was defeated and her family was saved. She would never admit it, but she was thrilled it was over. Thrilled that the mark had faded and her husband slowly returned to the charming man she had married. Yes, he still had a sadistic streak that was not there before taking the mark… but he was mostly the same. And when Lucius managed to avoid prosecution, she had hopes of a normal life. Normal for an extremely wealthy pureblood socialite, that is.

Now, the monster was back and living in her home. Sleeping in her bed while she and Lucius were in a guest suite. She was terrified her son would be forced to take the mark. It would undoubtedly change him the same way it changed Lucius. All summer she had kept Draco as far away from the Dark Lord as she could. Away from Lucius as well. But there was only so much she could do.

Lucius was furious over the loss of wealth caused by Sirius and had, at one point, taken it out on Draco. He struck his son hard enough to knock him to the ground. Like it was somehow his son's fault that he was no longer the Black heir. Draco had never been, in fact, the true heir. But how could any of them have known? A year ago, the idea that Lucius would strike his son was out of the question, but now… It was that damn tattoo. The dark mark on his forearm. Driving him to sadistic and irrational outbursts. Like he was a reflection of the Dark Lord.

Soon, she would have to make a choice. Her son or her husband. She had seen the Dark Lord watching Draco. Lusting after the wealth that came with the Black estate. The more she considered this, the more certain she was. The Dark Lord would soon pressure Lucius to have Draco take the mark. Lucius… would acquiesce. He would have no choice, really. To decline would be a death sentence for them all. But to defect may be a death sentence as well.

What could she do?

—Dance of Death—

4 Privett Drive

Little Whinging, Surrey, England

The Dursley Home

August 6, 1995

Harry slept peacefully. Practicing occlumency had done wonders for his ability to sleep without nightmares. As he slowly drifted off, he found himself on the patchwork path once more. It was wider and appeared to be reinforced with wooden branches and roots. He slowly walked along the path until he could see his old dreamscape house. His mother had done a good job of repairing it. The path had been filled with tree roots and he would finally able to reach his destination.

He walked over the roots very carefully. He just needed to get to the other side. After carefully putting one foot in front of the other, he was there. He hugged his mother and they held each other tightly.

Lily's incarnation said, "Happy birthday, Harry."

Harry slowly released her and stepped back. Looking into her green eyes, he asked, "Does this mean I'm healed? I can do magic?"

His mother's image slowly shook her head, "No, Harry. Not yet, but you're on the right path. Keep practicing occlumency. Pull your mind together. Go to our house in Godric's Hollow and find the vault. Within the vault, there is a flower. Find the flower, Harry. Once you have the flower, you and Oakheart can finish the healing process. For you both."

Harry felt himself slowly being pulled away. To the waking world. He tried to stay asleep, but the harder he tried, the ore he regained consciousness.

He heard his mother's last words "Find the Rose!"

He realized his alarm was going off. Time to go to the gym with Dudley. Damn.

The dream was clear and crisp. There was no Voldemort soul splinter to muddy the waters.

Find the Rose and connect with Oakheart.

—Dance of Death—

Later the same morning

Harry and Dudley jogged to the Boxing club for their morning workout. They made a habit of working out each and every morning, the jog was about two and a half miles and helped them warm up. They went through basic drills, jumped rope, worked the bag. Dudley showed Harry a few tricks in closing the distance and going to the body. It was a really good morning workout.

Harry had only been at it for a week, but he was beginning to get the hang of the workouts. The soreness was still there, but the morning jog helped work out a lot of the stiffness. While he couldn't shake his dream, a good workout helped clear his head. He kept thinking about what his mother had said. He needed to find his house. Find a rose in the vault. Something about Oakheart.

After about an hour and a half, they were ready for a good breakfast and left for home. Their pace was significantly slower, but this let them talk and clown around. Dudley shared that he was thinking about becoming a youth minister or a counselor. He felt like he had a lot to give and could connect with troubled youths. Harry just listened. He had hated Dudley for so many years, now… that hate just wasn't there. Dudley was like a big brother to him. A really big brother, he realized with a grin.

When they got home, they took turns showering and came down for a late breakfast. Petunia was prepping the kitchen and Harry went in to help. He enjoyed making omelets and French toast. While prepping they talked about the condition of the rose garden. Harry realized that Petunia loved discussing gardening with him. It was a hobby they both seemed to enjoy, but neither Dudley or Uncle Vernon had any interest.

Over breakfast, Uncle Vernon made jokes about politics and the last round of golf he had played with Dan Granger. He had had far more fun than Dan appeared to have had. Harry laughed and talked about missing the ball. Dudley talked about the three of them playing a round. Just for fun. They needed a 'guys day out' before he and Harry went off to Smeltings.

Reluctantly, Harry brought up a tough subject. "Actually, I can't go. I have to finish one more year of Wizard school. Apparently it's the law. Now that I don't have magic, I have to take history and gardening classes. Math and ancient languages too." Seeing everyone looking at him, he added, "But this is the last year. When I'm done, I'm done."

Uncle Vernon adopted the look he had when he was feeling especially sly. "What happens if you just… skip out?"

Harry hated it, but he was honest. "They would send in wizards to bind up whatever is left of my magic. I expect it would be quite painful. Then, they'd wipe all of our memories."

Aunt Petunia gasped. Uncle Vernon roared, "They wouldn't dare!" Dudley was speechless.

Harry took a deep breath, "They would. They have an entire team of… 'Wizard Bobbies' that specialize in erasing people's memories."

Aunt Petunia put her head in her hands. Uncle Vernon was shaking in rage. And Dudley… Well, he was just looking sympathetically at Harry. When the hell did Dudley get to be so… nice?

Harry decided to calm the family, "Bill offered to tutor me, so I wouldn't have to go back to that school. There are a few other people that are pretty nice I could get, but I'd be home for the summer. Unless, you want me to go back… then I can."

Vernon stood up and yelled, "HELL NO! You can stay here and learn. Those… sons of bitches..." He was changing colors and Aunt Petunia was reaching for his medicine.

When he calmed down, he asked, "What would you be studying, Harry?"

Harry thought about the best way to present it, "Well, Arithmancy is basically math, Ancient Runes is like really old languages – I'm really good at that. Herbology is gardening, but with crazy plants. Astronomy is basically studying the stars. Then there's history, care of… magical animals" He decided to skip divination. "And studies of… normal people."

Aunt Petunia shrugged. "That sounds reasonable. Math is always good. And if you are here longer, we can get to know you better.' Vernon nodded along to that.

Harry smiled. They wanted him…

Dudley shook his head, "I was hoping we could room together at Smeltings." With a disappointed shrug, he added, "Maybe next year."

Harry was shocked at the way they were acting. It was actually nice. "Well, let's make the most of this summer, I guess. Boxing has been great. I'm pretty good on the driving range, so we can still do a golf outing. Just don't ask me to putt…"

Aunt Petunia added, "Tomorrow you have your first lesson with Sergi. I really think you'll like tennis, Harry."

—Dance of Death—

Harry called Hermione that day and confessed to falling asleep in the woods. He apologized for upsetting everyone, but Hermione insisted it was Dumbledore's fault. She was pretty angry about the whole, 'give up your magic for protection' spiel. Apparently, after he left, the adults really went after Dumbledore and Amelia. Even Mrs. Weasley was furious with him, and she worshiped the ground he walked on.

Harry went to the driving range with Dudley and Uncle Vernon that afternoon. Harry was actually fairly good compared to them. Uncle Vernon and Dudley both had a longer drive, but it always faded to the right. Sometimes they just flat out sliced. Still, Harry figured they had a good twenty to thirty yards on him, even with the fade. Harry was more accurate with his irons. The three group lessons he had were put to good effect. He still didn't have their distance, but he could work the ball better. The putting green was the sore spot. Harry just had very little 'touch' and couldn't putt to save his life. Same with short chips.

They ended the afternoon in the clubhouse just hanging around and cutting up. Dudley disappeared for a while, then they took off for home. Once home, Dudley took Harry to the local playground and produced a pair of cigars. He had purchased them at the clubhouse on his dad's account. "Let me show you how it's done Harry."

He snipped off the ends and lit one up. After a few puffs, it was going well. Dudley even managed a smoke ring after a few tries. "Here, try it. But don't inhale. You just pull a bit of the smoke into your mouth and savor it. Then, blow it back out."

Harry took the offered cigar and puffed a bit to get it going. He felt an instant buzz. His whole body felt tingly. A few more puffs, and the feeling got more intense. He felt a sweat forming on the back of his neck.

Dudley looked concerned, "Harry, don't inhale. You'll make yourself sick. Here watch me." And he puffed out a few more some rings.

Harry tried again, but ended up in a coughing fit. It continued until he threw up. His head was spinning and he felt terrible. What the hell?

Dudley had him sit and he ran home to get a bottle of coke. Harry threw up again while he was gone. Damn cigars! Damn! Dudley got back and the coke seemed to help. They waited until he felt better before heading back. He noticed Dudley seemed to think it was funny.

"Yeah, same thing happened to me my first time." Dudley was definitely laughing.

"Why didn't you tell me that earlier?" Harry was too sick to be pissed.

"I told you not to inhale…"

Bloody cigars.

—Dance of Death—

The next day, Harry and Dudley jogged to the gym and had another good workout. Being a Monday, Lou was there to train them. Harry was picking up the rhythm and movements quickly due to his dueling training. Dudley was struggling to lay a hand on him. Soon, Lou put him against other lightweight and flyweight fighters. Speed against speed. He was enjoying himself.

Harry went to the tennis club and had a first lesson with Sergi. It was similar to volleying spells, but he aimed away from his opponent. The first lesson went well, they focused on grip and stance. He took to it better than Golf, that's for sure. Sergi advised him that an hour a day would do wonders. He could rent a machine if he wanted to.

Coming into the club house, he saw a red faced Petunia. She was eager to leave as quickly as possible. Harry noticed two of her friends whispering. He was suddenly able to hear every other word. "Her criminal nephew can't play. He'd rob us if we let him. Something, something, juvenile delinquent."

On the positive side, he had managed to use his Owl hearing. On the negative, his aunt was embarrassed and disappointed. Harry kind of felt sorry for her, but she really had brought it on herself with ten years of lies. Maybe he could join the youth tennis team and skip the mother-son league. As long as they don't mind his 'checkered past', that is.

The week passed quickly. Gardening, boxing, tennis, and the occasional trip to the driving range. At the end of it, he met Bill on Saturday and they went to Godric's Hollow. Bill seemed reluctant, that it might be under surveillance. But agreed that Harry should at least see his parent's graves. A quick trip on the Knight Bus and they were there. The village was small, but very charming. He saw the memorial to his family. He was depicted in a large sculpture as a baby with his parents.

He paid his respects to their graves. It was so depressing. They had been taken from him so young.

"Mum and Dad, thank you for saving me. I miss you both and think of you every day. I hope you are proud of me. I'm proud of you both. I love you." He touched each headstone and slowly walked out.

He then approached his home.

The roof was blown off of about a third of the building and there were wards keeping people out. He was able to slip through, being apparently attuned. Bill waited outside. Going in, he came to the stairs. There was a sense of foulness on the middle of the steps. He assumed that's where his father had perished. He applied a bit of blood to the knob on the bottom banister and the staircase rose up, revealing a set of steps down to ta reinforced door. Just like in his dreamscape.

Descending, he approached the door and upon touching it, it swung open. He could sense the enchantments on the door, it was powerful. It obeyed him. Walking in, the vault was exactly like in his dream scape. He noted a few extra odds and ends. An old bronze dagger and a crystal box containing a rose. Picking up the dagger, he noted the inscription. In Latin it read 'Marcus Junius Brutus'. He opened up his perception and could feel it was enchanted. Enchanted, and… something more. Lifting it up, he felt a sudden surge, followed by an immense dizziness. Once it passed, he put the dagger in his belt and scanned the vault a bit more. He saw two wands, neatly set aside and he pocketed them as well. If the ministry was going to steal his wands, he'd take the two that must have been his parents.

Finally, he went to the crystal box containing the rose. Touching the box, it suddenly opened up. He hesitated a moment. Was this some kind of trap? Was it safe? His mother had sent him here, so it must be. Reaching in, he lifted the rose. The rose was a red so dark it was almost black. It was gorgeous. Then, suddenly, it began shooting out tendrils.

It wrapped around his arm and his torso and within two seconds he was wrapped up in thorny vines. Was this how Angelina and Alicia felt when he threw the spear at them in his second year? He felt the thorns digging into his skin. Then, the rose began to age and wither. Within thirty seconds, it was just dust. What the hell had happened? He was standing there, bleeding from a hundred small puncture wounds. Time to leave.

Harry walked out and closed the door. He sensed it locking down. Ascending the steps, he touched the bannister and the upper stairs descended, hiding the entrance to the vault. With a light 'Kachunk' it was completely hidden. Like there was nothing below.

Walking out, Bill immediately approached him. "Harry? What the hell happened? You're bleeding!"

"I know. Let's go home, Bill."

Like most curse-breakers, Bill always carried a miniaturized first aid kit. He applied a bit of dittany to the worst wounds and antiseptic to the others. They stopped at Mrs. Figg's and she helped re-apply the dittany and cleaned him up. Bill didn't think there would be scarring. Harry just felt tired and exhausted. When he got back home, he thanked Bill profusely and went to his bed room.

Once he got home, he examined the wands and called for Pipsey.

"Pipsey, were these my parent's wands?"

Pipsey nodded solemnly. She seemed so sad.

Harry wanted to know more. "Which one belonged to my dad?"

Pipsey pointed to the mahogany wand, "This is little James' wand." She pointed to the other and said, "That wand be's Miss Lily's."

"Thanks, Pipsey. Do you know whose dagger this was?"

She looked at it and shook her head, saying, "'Twas in Baby Harry's room. I moves it to the vault."

Hmmm. So, Pipsey could go in and out of the vault. Good to know.

Harry looked closely at it. It was ancient and bronze. Who was Marcus Junius Brutus? There was no dizziness involved anymore, only when he first lifted the dagger. He decided to call Hermione.

After she came to the phone, he asked her "Hermione, do you know who Marcus Junius Brutus was? If so, did he have a dagger or knife?"

There was a pause on the other end and Hermione said, "That's Brutus, Harry. You know, 'E tu Bruté?' The Roman senator who helped kill Julius Caesar? He was the last to stab him when he was assassinated. It was considered a deep betrayal as he was friends with Cesar. It set events in motion that changed the Roman Empire forever."

Harry thought about it. The dagger felt enchanted… Definitely magical. It had a kind of power to it. "I think I may have his dagger…"

"Harry, that dagger would be a priceless historical artefact. I seriously doubt you have it."

"Yeah. You're right." He didn't mean it. Where the hell had that dagger come from.

They talked for a bit and Harry ended the call twenty minutes later.

—Dance of Death—

4 Privett Drive

Little Whinging, Surrey, England

The Dursley Home

August 13, 1995

Harry drifted off after practicing his occlumency. He found himself back on the patchwork path. It looked much more solid. He rushed to the end where he knew his mum would be, but he saw she was not alone. What the hell? He ran forward to confront the intruder, but stopped short when they turned.

They were arm in arm. He recognized the man.

The man had dark messy hair and wore round, wire rimmed glasses. He was slender and confident in his movements. Harry had seen this man so many times before.

The man smiled broadly at him. "Hello Harry."

Harry leapt into the man's arms and his mother joined in. The three of them were locked in a deep embrace. He knew if he ever managed to get his magic back, he'd be able to cast a Patronus from this memory. Every. Single. Time.

He was held so tightly, he could only manage to say one word.

"Dad"

—Dance of Death—

Notes

OK, moving along. Harry now has been reunited with his father's incarnation. James' incarnation has been residing in the dagger that was originally intended to house Voldemort's horcrux. Because his incarnation filled the dagger, the soul shard Voldemort had prepared for the dagger had to find another place – Harry. Now the horcrux is gone and James' incarnation is back where it was always intended. And it only took twenty chapters to get here.

It took me a while to settle on an object. I considered a Griffindor dirk, a Slytherin wand, a Merlin staff... whatever. But I think the knife to killed Julius Caesar is good enough. Pretty cool actually.

Harry is now also merged with a rose and with an elemental named Oakheart. He is slowly healing and things are less grim. Tennis and Boxing are working out well for Harry. Both seem to align with his prior training. He will be home schooled, but has no plan to go back to Hogwarts permanently. Sirius is due for a trial in just under two weeks – August 25.

At the Malfoy manor, things are not looking up. Narcissa, is in a constant state of panic. Likely, Draco is as well. Voldemort has moved in and the man is a psychotic and sadistic monster. Sirius has done all kinds of financial and social damage to the deatheaters and they are not happy about it. They can't really afford to wage a war without depleting their vaults, so it's all or nothing. The only way to regain their status is to win the war.

Next up: The Trial of Sirius Black. Also, Home Schooling!