—Dance of Death 33—
In the last chapter, Harry buried Hedwig and had vowed to increase the intensity of his training. He knew he needed to survive and win the coming war if he had any hope of settling scores with Umbridge and the Deatheaters that taunted him in the cemetery. Hedwig's death gave him a focus to not just survive, but to win and bring justice to the people that deserved it.
On a trip to visit his parent's graves, Harry and Bill discussed the fact that he had already bonded with a Runespoor and is waiting for it to hatch. Bill reluctantly agreed to support him but noted that Runespoors can be quite deadly. As Harry went to put flowers on his parent's graves, he and Bill were attacked by Dementors. Desperate to survive, he bonded with a spirit of the Wyld that represented the Unseelie and balanced Oak Heart. In the process, he was pierced by thorns from the inside out, but managed to force the Dementors back with an enormous patch of thorny vines.
Before the Dementors could switch their focus to Bill, Albus Dumbledore appeared on the scene and drove the Dementors off, destroying one in the process. Harry had now bonded with an elder elemental plant spirit and his magic began repairing itself far faster than before. Unfortunately, the Ritual of Thorns may heal his magic, but it was a painful and unpleasant process.
This is where we pick up.
—DoD—
Note: I do not own Harry Potter or any of the characters – they belong to JKRowling.
FASA owns the Earthdawn setting which has influenced many of the ideas in my stories. The Ritual of Thorns and Oakheart are two examples.
—DoD—
Special thanks to my Beta Reader, 'Just William' for the excellent feedback and diligent work in making the story better.
— Dance of Death 33—
Chapter 33: Magic's Return
St. Mungo's
April 6th, 1996
Andromeda used her wand to help Harry stand up. She winced at the sight of him covered in thorns, noting his obvious levels of pain. Scans verified that he had somehow merged with some form of plant spirit and they could not be separated. It had saved his life, but he was in a constant state of agony. The first day, he mostly just tensed and twisted in pain. He was now learning to focus past it, but it was still there. Any potion that was able to lessen the effects would result in addiction… Harry was having to learn how to manage the pain.
She realised that normal clothes would be a problem. The thorns would pierce the clothes and he'd get tangled up. His clothes would have to be something enchanted specifically for him. Fortunately, he had fewer thorns on the bottoms of his feet and the palms of his hands. They could be managed or removed. But even the removal was painful. It was like pulling on a hangnail.
Andromeda soothingly said, "Just take it slowly." If he moved too fast, his thorns would cut him up from the friction. "There, let's put this robe around you…" She draped it loosely. She reinforced the cloak with the impervious charms, so it sat on the thorns rather than being pierced by them.
With a quavering voice, Harry whispered, "I need to go home, Andromeda. I hate it here."
"That's where we're going Harry. We just need to get you used to walking."
Harry made a loose fist and focused his concentration. A vine slowly began forming in his hand and stiffened to become a staff. Andromeda noted that it was covered with thorns that were identical to the ones covering Harry. To her amazement, one small branch extended off to the side of the staff and slowly formed into a Rose.
Harry broke off the Rose and whispered, "Thank you for being here for me." He then handed it to her.
Andromeda carefully held the Rose and smelt. It was very strongly scented but had a trace of fir and oak. Beneath the obvious scent was a very faint coppery smell she knew well. Any healer would know that scent. It was the smell of blood.
"Thank you, Harry."
—DoD—
Harry walked into Grimmauld Place and noted there were many people in the house. Spring break was here and the Weasleys with it. Everything he looked at was through a haze of pain. Today was better than yesterday… but a year? How on earth was he going to last a year like this? Harry shook off those thoughts. Focus! There are some very bitter debts that need to be repaid…
Ginny quickly came over to him but had to pull back from the hug she had planned to give him. How do you hug a pin cushion? Harry saw tears in her eyes. He noticed Hermione and Mrs. Weasley were also teared up. Fleur was keeping it together. She was one tough witch.
Searching for something to say, he proclaimed, "I've missed you, Ginny…"
He was soon surrounded. He'd always avoided random hugs, bitterly he realised that wouldn't be a problem now. A few people were talking, he smiled and nodded. He had no idea what they were saying. Harry noticed Dumbledore and wondered why the man was here. My god, how many Weasleys are there? A few other faces he didn't know…
"I really appreciate the welcome. Thank you. I hope you don't mind, but I just want to go to bed." He smiled, but it was probably more like a grimace. "Bill, can you help me get settled?"
Bill nodded, "Sure thing, Harry."
Seeing Ginny and Hermione crying, Harry said in a raspy voice, "It's alright. It won't last. Please, Ginny. Hermione. Mrs. Weasley… don't cry for me." His voice broke three times while he was rasping that sentence out. Remembering his vow to Hedwig, he added, "Save your tears for whoever sent those monsters after us. I plan to make them suffer." That was followed by an uncomfortable silence.
Between the relentless pain and the fact that he had screamed until he lost his voice, the words came out sounding somewhat sinister. But the intent was clear. He would show no mercy to whoever sent those Dementors after him. Albus Dumbledore looked on sadly as Harry and Bill walked upstairs. Ginny waited a minute then followed, pulling on Dragon Hide gloves as she ascended the stairs.
Ahead of Ginny, Harry turned to Bill and asked, "Do you have my egg? I saw you pick her up after the attack." His eyes were pleading. Scared even.
Bill pulled the egg from his pocket. "Here you go Harry. Safe and sound." Bill noted a look of profound relief. "Between you and me, I was terrified she would hatch and bite my bits."
Harry laughed. "I was so scared Dumbledore would get a hold of her…" The relief was clear and overshadowed his pain. Bill noted he seemed more focused, but that's one of the things Runespoor eggs were supposedly known for. Maybe the bonding is a good thing.
"Harry, I said I would support you and I meant it." After letting that sink in, he added, "You should know that Dumbledore showed up and drove the Dementors away. He helped free you and… well, he's not your enemy. A condescending know-it-all, maybe… But not an enemy."
Harry gave a short nod, one of the thorns on his neck piercing the skin under his chin. "I know he's not my enemy, but he's not really looking out for my best interests. He's just so…" Ginny emerged from the staircase at that point, ending the discussion.
Ginny was wearing dragon hide gloves and took his hand. "Harry, let me help you to bed." As she led him away, she whispered, "They put you with Draco!" It was practically a hiss.
Andromeda already told him. Draco would be monitoring his condition. It was either that or a hired nurse. Harry went with Draco; he didn't mind being with Draco. They argued and annoyed each other, but it never seemed personal anymore. It was almost fun.
"Draco's rather good with healing charms. Besides, with the contracts he signed, it's not like he's able to betray me." Harry flinched when his thorns ripped across his legs. "He's not so bad. Not anymore."
Ginny thought a moment, then said, "That's what Hermione said. But Ron still hates him."
Harry lay down on his bed. It was charmed to morph around his thorns, otherwise he'd be pinned to the mattress. He suddenly realised he was barefoot. No, he was wearing thong sandals.
"Ginny, I really don't want to move. Can you take off my sandals?" Embarrassed by his own request, he added, "Sorry. I don't think my feet smell."
Ginny smiled sadly. "It's alright, Harry." Sniffing slightly, she added, "You actually smell really good. Kind of like roses." But there was something else barely there. Something… metallic?
Harry was already asleep. She watched him breath fitfully, staying until he was truly asleep. He was clearly in pain and no one could help him. She then noticed he was holding a leathery orb. She reached down to take it and set it on the table, but he pulled it in close as soon as he felt her pulling on it. She decided to just let him hold it. It seemed to bring him comfort.
— Dance of Death 33—
Bones Manor
April 10, 1996
Amelia was sitting in her study nursing a snifter of Brandy. The last week had left her both exhausted and frustrated. Her irritation was directed squarely at both the ministry and her own department. Someone had authorised four Dementors to be port keyed to Godric's Hollow the moment flowers were placed on the grave of James and Lily Potter by a blood relation. Whoever had devised the trap was quite skilled and had accomplices. The charm alone was extremely advanced and specific. This was an assassination attempt on Harry Potter, and was masterfully planned.
Even within the DMLE, there were no traces of whoever had made the Dementor requisition. That infuriated her and resulted in the termination of half a dozen lower level bureaucrats that were responsible for ensuring the Dementor requisitions were well maintained. At least one of them was corrupt, but she couldn't tell which… so they all had to go. Where Dementors were concerned, you couldn't be too careful.
Harry Potter, a young man she was magically bound to protect, was nearly killed and had been left in a terrible state. She had never seen a curse like that before and she hoped she never would again. The healers at St. Mungo's were unable to help, but at least the Mr. Potter was coping. He had implicated Dolores Umbridge, but Minister Fudge refused to allow an interview. Amelia wondered if the minister realised how many enemies he was creating. House Potter, House Longbottom, House Black, and now House Bones. Cornelius used to be so politically savvy… Now, his days were numbered.
But if You-Know-Who really was back, would he be out in time? The DMLE certainly wasn't ready for his return… She had plans to put in place. Allies to collect and assemble – Fudge had to be removed. Hopefully, she would have the support she would need in the next Wizengamot session to call for his removal. A vote of 'No Confidence' was not something that had occurred in her lifetime and the Minister would be ruined, both professionally and personally. It would be a humiliating end to a career that had lasted over four decades. But it was no less than he deserved. What had he expected when he surrounded himself with people like Lucius Malfoy and Dolores Umbridge?
The Prewetts would never vote Cornelius Fudge out, but Augusta Longbottom would support her. The Macmillan's would too. If she could convince the Greengrass's and the Abbots to go along, she would have the votes she needed. Tomorrow, she would be beginning building her voting block to remove the worthless man. She had more than enough dirt on him, she just didn't know what leverage he had with other Wizengamot members. Perhaps it was time to call Albus Dumbledore. He could bring in a few votes…
Amelia refocused her thoughts back to Harry Potter. Her niece had shared a copy of the notes the teen had sent to her study group and to say it surprised her would be an understatement. Some of it looked like he had managed to get access to an advanced Auror training guide. It also had strategies and tactics that appeared to have come from the Grindelwald war. But while anyone could copy chapters from a book, it was the personal texts and hand drawn illustrations the boy added that impressed her the most. The diagrams and strategies were like something a war veteran would use. Like something from Charlus Potter.
When asked how he had become so knowledgeable about ambushes and skirmishes, Susan shamefully reminded her that Harry had been targeted daily at Hogwarts last year. No sense going through all that again, it would just ruin the break she had with Susan. Additionally, Mr. Potter's accidental magic that occurred when his familiar was killed shocked the entire school. He overrode the wards on the Great Hall and froze it over. Susan asked if he was unable to practice magic and Amelia had to admit she wondered herself. Somehow, he beat Draco Malfoy in a magic duel. She'd seen the medical reports, but… It just didn't add up.
Sipping her Brandy, Amelia Bones was one hundred percent certain that, with or without magic, Harry Potter's story was nowhere near over.
— Dance of Death 33—
Grimmauld Place
April 13, 1996
Saturday
Harry had been quiet for most of the break, but he had met occasionally with Ginny and Hermione. Draco had been on decent behaviour and apologised to Hermione for calling her a 'Mudblood'. Her still didn't really get along with Harry's friends, but he was civil. Harry knew Draco was counting the days until he had his room back and they both were looking forward to having privacy again after the break. But Harry enjoyed being near Ginny and while physical contact was limited due to his 'thorny problem', it was nice being around his girlfriend.
Harry slept between twelve and fourteen hours each night and while he couldn't tell a difference day to day, over the course of two weeks he became fully functional and was now getting about unassisted. His focus had improved dramatically, and he no longer appeared to be crippled with pain. Like Rose had once said, he had learned to focus past the pain. He had learned to cope. Remus had enchanted clothing that would open around the thorns and flex with Harry's movements. His undergarments were actually Dragon hide to prevent the thorns from 'tearing him up down there' when he walked. That made a huge difference in his mobility. He had hardened leather reinforcement under his arms and down his sides to prevent the thorns on his arms from tearing up his ribs. Also, on the inner thigh for the same reasons. Harry had found his new 'normal'.
He did interact with the other Weasleys during the break, knowing that his relationship with Ginny and Hermione depended peaceful coexistence. They also were making real efforts to be helpful and to share information. Information was one of the things Harry missed the most. One morning, Harry was in the kitchen with Hermione, Ron, the twins, and Ginny. The things they were telling him about the current state of Hogwarts was quite disturbing. Under the new 'High Inquisitor' Umbridge, Hogwarts had really gotten bad. It was both infuriating and ironic that Umbridge used her own crime to further her ambitions.
Harry noted dismally that Ron was holding Hermione's hand. He suppressed a smirk thinking, 'Yeah, that'll work out…'
Ron caught Harry's eye and sheepishly said, "Harry, mate, I really hope you'll come back. I know we screwed up, but…" Ron obviously wasn't sure what to say next. Harry always got so angry when people apologised. He wondered why Harry couldn't see how sorry they all were. Hermione had warned him not to push it.
Before Harry could respond, Hermione interjected, "Your books and notes have been amazing, Harry. Honestly, they've been more help than the map. And that's saying something." She smiled and continued, "Situational awareness should be trained as much as Defence against the Dark Arts. It's that good."
Easier all around to just let Hermione change the subject. In truth, Harry really didn't have the energy to lose his temper with Ron. "Thanks, Hermione. Just don't let anyone go anywhere alone. Those inquisitors seem to be pretty bad."
The twins jovially agreed, proclaiming at the same time, "We always go in pairs." They laughed at their own joke, but no one else did.
Ginny added, "But seriously, not all of the inquisitors are bad. A few seem to be trying to help people. It's common knowledge that any group with Greengrass or Zabini won't rough anyone up too bad. Bulstrode and Parkinson aren't so bad either… but they'll insult the hell out of you. Well, Parkinson will."
Harry considered that. "So not all snakes are venomous. Well, that's a good thing." He realised this meant fewer people to put on his 'payback' list.
Ginny asked, "Harry, why are you always holding that leather ball?"
Harry laughed, "This 'leather ball' is actually an egg. My next Familiar." Sadly, he said, "I can't replace Hedwig and I never will… but I can still love my new Familiar." He was holding the egg up and looking at it. The leather shell was resistant to his thorns if he was careful.
Hermione was staring at the egg. "Harry, that's a Runespoor egg." Ginny flinched.
Harry smiled. "Some venomous snakes are actually alright." He then whispered, "§Sleep well sweeties§." Everyone could see it pulse a bit.
Ron pales, "Harry, this isn't gonna be another Aragog is it?" You could hear a pin drop.
Harry shifted on his cushioning charm, the thorns from his 'behind' resettling. "No, Ron. She'll be nothing like Aragog. Nowhere near as many legs and a hell of a lot faster." He then added, "As a personal favour, don't say anything about this." The twins weren't laughing anymore.
Hermione flushed and exclaimed, "That's not fair, Harry! You can't drop a bomb like this and ask us not to say anything. Runespoors are dangerous and… You can't have one."
Harry gritted his teeth. Being in a constant state of pain resulted in rather terse communication. "Oh, really? Who's gonna take her?" His eyes were glowing bright green. Hermione was dead silent.
Realising he might have gone too far Harry said, "Sorry 'Mione. The pain keeps me on edge. Fact is, she's not going to attack anyone at random, but she will protect me and my friends. And I'll make sure she's safe. Bill and Andromeda know but I'd rather Dumbledore didn't."
Hermione asked, "What about Professor McGonagall?"
Harry guffawed rudely and sneered the way only someone in pain can. He then straightened up and focused. This was an illusionist trick he'd earned from his dad and his magic was healed enough for simple charms. About two months ahead of schedule. No wand needed for this. The illusion was translucent and obviously a glamour, but very visible and audible. It was of the room behind the great hall. A younger Harry was standing there with the other Champions and their Headmasters. Dumbledore and various other teachers were in the room. Harry looked small, vulnerable, and afraid. It was heart breaking. Seeing a Harry that hadn't been working out fanatically for a year really drew attention to how tiny he used to be.
—
Harry slowly approached Professor McGonagall. "Professor, can we…"
"Can we WHAT, Mr. Potter?" She aggressively cut him off with, "'Can we cause more trouble?', 'Can we cheat our way into some other tournament?' Or possibly, 'Can we embarrass the school more than we already have?' Well, which is it?" The others in the room had stopped and were listening to them.
"Can we talk, I need your help…" Harry sounded pitiful. Like he was timidly begging.
"You are just like your father and his friends! Always causing problems and needing my help. Well, maybe you should have thought this through before you entered yourself." Harry just stared with his mouth hanging open.
Snape approached with a smile and said, "I quite agree Minerva, Mr. Potter is a Menace. To the school and to himself. Just like his worthless Father." A few people in the room gasped.
Harry balled up his fists and launched himself at Snape. He was going to wipe that smile off his face! Mad-eye Moody – aka Barty Crouch Jr., grasped him around the torso before he could get far and held him back. Snape just smiled at him.
Moody half pulled and half carried Harry out of the room saying, "Mr. Potter needs some air. I'll take him to his room." Looking straight at McGonagall, he said, "Relax, Kitty Kat. I got this. Apparently, Harry's too much like his father to expect aid from you!"
—
As the Glamour faded, Harry said, "Even though Mad-eye was actually Barty Crouch junior, he was twice as supportive as 'Kitty Litter' McGonagall." Looking at Hermione, he added, "Did you know my father was her god-son?"
Hermione's mouth was hanging open. Everyone was embarrassed. Ginny squeezed his hand almost hard enough for a thorn to pierce her glove. Ron and the twins looked downright ashamed. But that was normal whenever the tournament came up. Good. Harry did notice that George seemed less ashamed than Fred. Well, one mystery solved. Assuming he had the right twin. Hermione looked around and knew they all were on the same page.
Hermione took a breath. "Alright, Harry. We'll keep your secret. But please be careful."
Harry smiled, "Hermione, careful gets you nowhere. I'll be cunning."
Ron the straightened up, "Oi! You did that without a wand! Harry, can you do magic again?"
Harry held up both hands and an arc of electricity pulsed between them. It lit up the room with flickering electric blue hues. He made the arc last a good three seconds. His eyes were faintly glowing emerald green and his thorns were casting shadows all over his face. Harry looked at his old roommate and smirked.
Ronald Weasley simply said, "Wow…"
Ginny smiled at him, she was happy and supportive. Harry could tell she wanted to hug and kiss him… but without a full set of Dragon hide armour and a face shield… nope.
Harry was pretty worn out after that display. He didn't want anyone to know this was pretty much the limit of his currently available power. He was able to use a few tricks, but nowhere near what he'd have in two months. The illusion was from ancient magic his dad had been training him in and the electricity was the elemental magic his mum had passed on. This was just the simple stuff, but it would be far easier if he'd had a wand. Soon, he'd be throwing his spears and lightning strikes around again. Plus, all that new illusionist magic his dad had been teaching him.
Soon.
— Dance of Death 33—
Hogwarts
Headmaster Office
April 14, 1996
Sunday
Albus Dumbledore looked over at his Deputy Headmistress and smiled. They were having a friendly planning session over tea. It was something they did regularly. Minerva McGonagall had been loyal to him for so many years. He knew enough of her past to know she had experienced more than her share of pain and loss. He had hopes of passing the reins to her soon and stepping away from the complexities of running a school and interacting with the Wizengamot and the ICW. Perhaps he'd spend his time fishing.
Minerva looked at Albus and caught him daydreaming. "Albus, is everything alright?" She was used to him being preoccupied in these meetings. And this was really a meeting of friends, the course planning aspect was just a pretence for meeting and talking as friends.
Albus sighed deeply. "I'm immensely proud of you Minerva. I couldn't ask for a better friend and ally." Turning more sombre, he said, "I confess to being worried about so very many things. Dolores Umbridge, our esteemed Grand Inquisitor, for one. I should have worked harder to keep her out of the school. But even more importantly, the coming war promises to be at least as bad as the last one… And we're not ready."
Minerva smiled gently. "We'll persevere, Albus. Amelia is taking steps to bolster the ministry. Cornelius won't be in his position much longer." Then addressing the more local problem, "Dolores has me worried too, but her time here is numbered. It's the influence she's having on the students I worry about. Especially the students in Slytherin house. The other houses have learned to keep their heads down. Thankfully, she and her gang of thugs have caused no serious problems."
Albus smiled sadly. "Unfortunately, I can think of one, Minerva."
Minerva realised her mistake and winced. "Hedwig. That was horrible, but Mr. Potter is no longer a student here. Considering his parting words, that might be for the best." After a moment of silence, she said, "I know my track record with Mr. Potter isn't something to brag about, but he's so angry Albus. I fear for the other students if he ever returns."
"Ah, but he must return. I've shared with you the prophesy around young Harry, Minerva. He is the one who will have to defeat Tom Riddle. The only one who can bring the war to an end. We need him to re-join Hogwarts. If he leaves Great Britain, I fear what will happen."
Minerva gave him a pained look, "Albus… there's more than you're saying. Why are you so fixated with Mr. Potter?" There, she finally worked up the courage to ask. She wanted to say obsessed but decided fixated was better.
Albus sat back in his chair. "When I fought Gellert, I was in my prime. When Tom rose twenty some years ago, I was still in peak form… but I fear I've crossed the peak and am now in decline. Oh, I'm still sharp Minerva, but not quite razor sharp. I can still hold my own against Tom… but for how long?"
Minerva considered her words. "Albus, I have faith in you. Britain has faith in you. But what does that have to do with Harry Potter? Apart from the prophesy, you still haven't said why you're so obsessed with the boy." She realised the word 'obsessed' slipped out.
Albus smiled and looked over his glasses, "Minerva, he's my replacement."
"Albus, he's a fifteen-year-old boy. And not a very stable one at that. He also doesn't seem to think much of either one of us."
Albus nodded his head, "True on all points. But I have always enjoyed a challenge."
Minerva chuckled. "Then you should prepare to be the happiest man alive."
— Dance of Death 33—
Grimmauld Place
April 30, 1996
Tuesday
11:30PM
The spring break from Hogwarts ended and Grimmauld Place was much quieter now. Draco returned to his old room and Harry revelled in his restored privacy. In truth, he kind of missed trading jabs and jokes with Draco each night, but he'd rather have his own room. Dr. Gaines had been right. Focus on the future. Holding onto his anger was just hurting him. It helped that he beat the stuffing out of him.
So, Draco was no longer an enemy. What about the rest of Hogwarts? That was when Harry realised they just didn't matter. No, he didn't have to be nice or friendly. He just had to realise they no longer had any effect on him. No, he didn't have to accept them back into his life but wasting energy on them wasn't worth his time. It would be best if they stay out of his way, though. Otherwise… he'd make them regret it. He knew who his friends were.
Ginny had been amazing during the visit. With her dragon hide gloves, she always made it a point to hold Harry's hand and provide support . Hermione was great too, but he spent most of his free time with Ginny. Harry knew he was lucky to have them both in his life. Then there was Luna and Neville. Yes, Colin too. Harry never forgot how many fights the boy got into after his Eiectio. Speaking of which, Katie Bell kicked Cho's ass after the shit she pulled at the Ball. Yeah, he had friends. Knowing this made the idea of returning to Hogwarts somewhat less horrible. Additionally, he had debts to pay, and most of the people he owed were at Hogwarts.
Umbridge was right at the top of the list. Snape also had more payback coming. He might even get his licks in on McGonagall too if the opportunity presented itself. Filch needed to suffer a bit, so he'd make a royal mess of things. Fun. But Umbridge would get the worst, and he knew just how to do it.
Speaking of the Bitch, according to letters from his friends, Fred and George played a massive prank on the first day back that involved a portable swamp, a case of fireworks, and a huge flaming image of Hedwig chasing Umbridge and exploding all around her. It ended with them flying off and the Weasley Wizarding Wheezes logo lighting up the sky. For the very first time, he decided he was glad to be in business with the Weasley Twins. Colin even sent him a photograph… It was Brilliant.
Maybe tomorrow he'd send a note to the twins. It might be time for a second serving of fireworks. Yeah… as a parting gift once his OWLs were over. Once the ministry test coordinators left, no one could prevent his OWLs from being documented. That last night, he'd make it one to remember. Maybe his dad could help him pull it off and not get caught. His dad was a Marauder after all.
As Harry slowly calmed himself, he practiced his Occlumency and reviewed his time with Hermione and the Weasleys. Occlumency helped him take a neutral and unbiased view as he filed away and reviewed the memories and experiences of the past two weeks. He did this every night and it made a huge difference in his perspective. He realised Draco had made a huge effort to not insult or argue with anyone, even though he had been baited more than once. He also realised that he enjoyed being with Draco more than Ron. Partly because of the way Ron had acted last year during the tournament, but also because Draco brought out a different side of him. He enjoyed their intellectual jabs and Quidditch discussions. After listening to Ron for years, he really hated the Cannons.
Blocking out the steady pain from the thorns, he closed his eyes and slowly drifted off to sleep. His focus was to reach his parent's home in his dreamscape. Over the last week, he had managed it twice with minimal effort. As his consciousness receded and his occlumency helped him block the pain, he was on the familiar path toward his house. As a child, he used to wake up inside the house, now he had a path to walk. Was it something to do with growing up? Weird. Harry noted the path grew shorter each month. Maybe it was a healing thing.
He had his three little girls with him, but now they were pure snakes, not something in between human and serpent. They were perfect. Selene around his neck and Artemis and Hecate around his arms. His Thorns didn't seem to bother them. But, in his Dreamscape, his thorny problem didn't bother him much either.
Rose was present beside him. She was smiling and beautiful, but he felt her presence everywhere. Now that they had merged even closer, from the ritual of thorns, he could feel her influence even when he was awake. She was very much a Wyld thing. Chaos and change with little regard for consequence. It appealed to his Gryffindor side.
Rose laughed, "Come to see me off, Harry? Tonight, at midnight the Seelie court takes prominence and I step back until Samhain." She held his hand, thorn on thorn. "I'm not really going anywhere, we're together for another 11 months. Give or take."
She walked with him until was at his parents Dreamscape home and then she stepped off the path and faded into the forest. Looking up and whispering to the snakes coiled around him, he saw both of his parent's incarnations outside and waiting for him. James was holding hands with Lily and they were looking about. As Harry approached, they both smiled and encouraged him to take in the scenery.
James said, "Turn around, Harry. Can you believe it?"
Harry turned and saw a beautiful and lush forest. The full moon illuminated the sky and the treetops. Off in the distance was a huge tree, glowing with life and abundance. There was no mistaking what or who the tree was. He knew that was Oakheart.
Lily clasped his hand, heedless of the thorns. "Oakheart is pure again, Harry. You're sacrifices have cleansed him. Soon he'll have rebuilt your core."
Harry looked at his mindscape in awe. It was magnificent. The moon and the stars were magical. Light from a rising sun was beginning to illuminate the horizon. It had been night for months in his dreamscape. That was about to change. Amazing what giving access to ancient Elder Elementals could accomplish.
Lily smiled, "The sun will rise on the Beltane, Harry. In just a few minutes. That's when the Seelie court comes into prominence. Oakheart will rise and Rose will recede." She then smiled and turned to her husband, then back to Harry. "In a few minutes it will be midnight. And the sun will rise."
James added, "You'll be almost fully healed by the time you go back for your OWLs. By your sixth year, you'll be more powerful than you've ever been. No damaged core and no Horcrux holding you back."
Lily squeezed his right hand, "We need to make sure you're ready. Nightly practice will begin tomorrow. All our knowledge has been passed on, now we need to reinforce it and help you integrate with it."
James grinned, "It won't be easy, but you're up to it. By the time summer is over, your new knowledge and skills will be second nature. We'll make…" James suddenly stopped talking and looked at what Harry was cradling in his left hand.
Harry realised his girls were no longer coiled around him. He was holding their egg and it was pulsing and glowing.
Lily gasped, "Harry, she's hatching! Wake up!"
As Harry opened his eyes, he saw cracks form on the egg. Then a head popped out. Then two more joined the first. "§Welcome home, beautiful! Happy Birthday§!"
The Runespoor worked its way out of the egg and coiled around his wrist, careful to avoid Harry's thorns. Harry 'kissed' each head with the tip of his nose. That was the best he could do until the thorns were gone. As he kissed each, he whispered their name, "§Hecate, Selene, Artemis… My beautiful girls§."
The last two years had been rough for Harry, but this night was spectacular. As the girls looked up, Harry noted they had emerald green eyes… just like him. The pain of his thorns was overshadowed by the euphoria he felt watching his beautiful Familiar come into the world. His girls… Born on the Beltane.
— Dance of Death 33—
Grimmauld Place
Harry's Dreamscape
One month later
June 1, 1996
Harry had just finished duelling each of his parents and was revelling in the feeling of using magic once more. He had fallen back on the use of his elemental spears and experimented with the use of illusions to throw people off. His mother's incarnation was still superior in her use of elemental magic, but he was improving. His father was far superior in Transfiguration and Harry had a lot to learn before he would be comfortable using those skills in combat.
Still, he was able to combine these new applications with his standard combat spells in an extremely dangerous way. He still preferred the direct path and overwhelming his opponents with is raw power. The piercing hex was rapidly becoming one of his favourites as it was always like having a handgun . Extremely fast to cast and hard to dodge. It was silent and didn't produce bright lights or flashes, just a ripple in the air. He could see this as becoming one of his favourites along with the Elemental spears and the Disarming charm.
Harry's parents then led him inside the house to review his performance.
James started with, "Here in your dreamscape, we're all pretty much just imagining the castings, but out in the real world, you'll have far more raw power than most combatants. Deatheaters are tough though… so don't get cocky. You also have a bit of a temper, Harry. That'll get you killed if you're not careful."
Lily agreed, "I've had one Deatheater keep me so angry, I almost was blindsided when a second snuck up behind me. If Alice hadn't been watching my back, I'd have fallen. You have my temper, Harry. It can boost the power of your spells, but it comes at a price. And you really don't need a power boost." James laughed at that.
Harry nodded, "Where am I strongest and weakest?"
James considered only a moment, "You're fast and accurate. Loads of power… But you're very direct. You have the transfiguration skills, but you'd rather throw an elemental spear or a fireball. I'm not saying it won't work, but it is predictable." Pausing to emphasize the gravity, he added, "Predictable gets people killed."
Lily added, "You need a few more spell matrixes. Seven is a good number, but I'd feel better if you had twelve before next term. Until you get a wand, the spell matrixes will have to cover you. Seven isn't very much versatility unless you know where you're going."
James agreed, "You need more flexibility and re-tuning your matrixes is damn near impossible when you're under the gun. If you don't get your wand back, we need to find an alternate wand. Most wands would struggle with your power levels, but they'd still be better than a matrix. Staves aren't practical or fast enough…"
Harry groaned, "It took forever to get a wand that fit me last time."
Lily considered, "Phoenix feather is rare and finicky. Unicorns probably would top out too early with your current power levels. Dragon heartstring could handle it, but they tend to amplify and might damage the wood. It would definitely burn itself out in a few years." She then snapped her fingers, "You still have the Basilisk horns and heartstring. That should be able to handle your power without burning out."
Harry had forgotten about that. It seemed like an eternity ago. "Right… so do I just take it to Ollivander's and have him make a wand?"
James jumped, "Hell no! He'll inform Dumbledore. Gregorovich is good and he tends to be a bit of a rebel. Otherwise, you can go to the States." Thinking a moment, he said, "Shikoba Wolfe made great wands using thunderbird feathers. So did Thiago Quintana, but I can't remember his core specialty. Water monster. I think there's a lady in New Orleans too, her wands have a reputation... Most American wand-makers only use one core they specialise in. I don't think they have any Phoenix feather wand makers. Thunderbirds are sometimes called the Phoenix of the Americas."
Lily sighed. "James, those wand-makers may be dead or retired by now. They were kind of old when we bought our wands and it's been over twenty years. Gregorovich should still be around. If he's retired, you could likely tempt him to make one more wand given the core you're offering. There's another wand-maker in France too, but I don't know the name."
James shook his head, "Gregorovich it is." He then eagerly changed the subject. "So, Harry… How many OWLs are you taking?"
Harry smiled. "Most of them. Last month I knew I could do it, so I asked Andromeda to sign me up. The thorns make life rough, but they had a real impact on my recovery. I haven't studied for the extra OWLs, but with the knowledge you guys passed on, getting an Exceeds Expectations in most classes should be a snap. I can't wait to see Dumbledore's face when I ask for my wand."
Harry noted his parents looked a little uncomfortable. Jams said, "Harry... You're powerful, but don't go making an enemy of Albus Dumbledore. He's still the biggest fish in the British pond. Do you catch my drift?"
Harry grimaced. "Yeah, I get it. Don't poke the 'Dumblebear'." He snickered at his own joke. James did too, but Lily just smiled and rolled her eyes.
Harry continued discussing magical and duelling theories with his parent's incarnations until he eventually woke up. He then went upstairs to the attic where he performed resistance training with dumbbells. The thorns made it hard to do some of his favourite exercises, but weight training was fair game. He just didn't want to lose the strength and endurance he had worked so hard to build.
— Dance of Death 33—
Grimmauld Place
Harry's Room
June 8, 1996
Harry was watching Kreacher pack up his expandable chest. The enchanted clothes he had to wear weren't nice looking, but they were functional. Kind of looked like open weave linen. Or Burlap. It was depressing for Harry to realise he had never gone to Hogwarts looking like anything other than a bum.
His Runespoor was about fifteen inches and always hungry. She was skinny and could fit in his reinforced breast pocket when she coiled up. Harry made sure she had a good diet of mice and small mammals. She was not going with him and was very unhappy about it. Harry wasn't ready to share her existence yet. She'd be over two feet by September and would be more visible. She had a natural ability to slither around Harry's thorns. That would end as she grew, but for now it worked well.
Harry looked over at her on her heating stone and asked, "§ Are you still mad at me? §"
The middle head turned away, saying, "§Do you hear anything? I don't hear anything. §"
Harry looked sadly at his Familiar. "§Please don't be like that. I want you with me, but I'll be testing all week. I'm trying to protect you. §"
Artemis, the head on the left, made a hissing sound, followed by, "§Right. You want to protect us, but what about you? Who'll watch your back? §"
Hecate, the right head, said "§Harry, look what they did to your bird. They might do it to you too. §"
Harry looked at his girls solemnly, "§ I know who did that and she's going to regret it. Don't worry about me. §"
At that admission, his familiar began complaining non-stop. All heads at once.
"§Nooo! We want to see you kill someone. §"…"§Do you swallow the people you kill? §"…"§Where do you keep your fangs? §"…"§It's not fair! §"…"§ We want to help too! §"… "§We can bite them! §"…"§If you love us, you'll take us. §"… "§Who's gonna keep us warm? §" "§What do eyeballs taste like? §" "§That's a stupid question. §"… "§You're a stupid question. §"… "§That doesn't even make sense. §"… "§You don't make sense. §"… "§Stop looking at me! §"… "§You're breathing on me. §"… "§You started it. §" §…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…§…
Harry couldn't take any more of the rapid-fire arguments, "§Oh good lord! Next time I go to Hogwarts, I'll take you. Just please stop fighting. No BITING! Selene, what on earth…?§"
— DoD —
Thirty minutes later, Harry came downstairs with a headache to match his thorn induced body aches. He saw the twins delivering three boxes of their products. Two large and one small. Nice.
"Fred, George. Looks like you out did yourselves." Pocking up a smaller box, he opened it and saw three small marbles. "What're these?"
The twins beamed with pride, and they proclaimed together, "Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder".
Harry liked the sound of that, "How does it work?" He silently prayed they'd talk like normal people. After the last hour listening to his Familiar, he didn't think he could handle twin talk.
Trading turns, the twins said, "Simple, Harrikins"… "First, you squeeze the ball, breaking the container" … "Then you throw it" … "When you throw it" … "It creates an area of complete darkness" … "you can't see anything" … "Good for making a quick escape."
Harry closed his eyes. Twin talk…
Harry pocketed the box of the small marble sized balls. He might use it on Filch. "Thanks. Can you shrink up the other boxes for me? I don't have a wand."
The first Twin said, "Sure thing, partner."
The second twin said, "Make it count, we expect great things."
The first twin finally said, "We also put an instant swamp in that box. Durable enchantment."
Harry was looking forward to setting these off in the Great Hall. "Thanks guys. It'll be memorable." He then put the shrunken boxes in his pockets.
The twins soon left, and Harry meandered into the Library.
Draco was in there studying.
"Hey Draco, wanna take a break?"
With a huff, Draco said, "Yes. Badly. Are you ready for Hogwarts tomorrow?" He knew Harry was probably nervous. Especially after what happened last time.
Surprisingly, Harry laughed. "You're asking the wrong question, Draco." With a smirk, he finished with, "You should be asking if Hogwarts is ready for us?" Harry's eyes are glowing.
Seeing Draco suddenly looking nervous, he added, "Don't worry. Mr. Felder will be in Hogsmeade. Just in case something… unfortunate happens." Like a bunch of fireworks and an assault on a member of the ministry.
Draco wondered if Hogwarts will ever be ready for Harry. Is this what it felt like to be Granger…? Maybe he'd apologise to her again next week.
"Harry… Don't do anything over the… Well, just don't be yourself."
Harry smiled. It was not the kind of smile you have when you're happy.
— Dance of Death 33—
Next Chapter: Dolores Umbridge gets what's coming to her.
Year five is almost over and I promise year six will go by much faster than the fifth or the fourth year.
Notes:
First, I want to thank the many readers who have read and reviewed my story. It means a lot when you take the time to give feedback. Some of the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, while a few have expressed frustration at the Angst and Pace of the story. Message received and I appreciate the constructive feedback. I confess that the story has more angst than I originally intended. The Pace is about to pick up significantly and the Angst will be dialled back.
Unfortunately, in many ways I 'boxed myself in' with having to keep this Harry on the path to become the future Harry Potter in Casting Shadows. Harry from Casting Shadows is an immensely powerful Wizard who doesn't really trust many people. In fact, he flat out dislikes most people in Wizarding Britain. Future Harry is a skilled hand to hand combatant and a brilliant combat mage. His occlumency and divinatory skills are world class. He has several lifetimes of knowledge all at his disposal and he knows how to use it. All at 20 years old. How did he get there? You can only learn so much theory before you need real experience. Distrust is also something that is 'earned'.
That's where incarnations and the 4th year betrayals kicked in. Daily combat in school skirmishes during his fourth year in a somewhat controlled environment got him started. While not 'safe', the small skirmishes at Hogwarts were better than dodging killing curses in Diagon Alley. Was it too much? Well, it was more angst than I originally intended. But look at where Harry is now. He has a solid understanding of hand to hand fighting. No, he's not a 'super boxer', but he can beat most Wizards in hand to hand combat with ease. He can sense magic at least as well as either Dumbledore or Voldemort. Yes, the sensitivity caused him pain at first, but he adjusted. He is getting therapy with Dr. Gaines to get past his neglected and emotionally abusive childhood. He needs it. Anyone would need it.
Harry has all the knowledge of both parents and is learning to integrate it into his still developing fighting style. He has learned skills from both Remus and Tonks that he would never have learned at Hogwarts. Skills he only has because he was forced to take a break from magic. His core is being rebuilt by two ancient elder elementals of mythical power. Already powerful, now he will be 'Casting Shadows' powerful. When he returns for his OWLs, he will be near fully healed and ready for whatever the Wizarding World can throw at him. The thorns slow him down somewhat physically, but in dealing with the pain, he is learning to focus far beyond what a normal witch or wizard would ever need to develop. This will help him as he explores new ways to use magic.
Until next time.
Speaking of next time... I raised the rating to M in anticipation of the next two chapters. They'll be extremely violent. Especially chapter 35. Year six will have blood and death. Year seven will be a war zone.
No more 'Poor Harry'. He's now transforming into 'Casting Shadows' Harry. And I've finally gotten his Runespoor into the story! I've missed her.
Stick around.