Although Harry was supposed to be studying his potions, given the current circumstances, his mind couldn't break from his deep thoughts. One way or another he'd drag Mr Gaunt into his mind. He knew he should stop with the obsession over the man, Harry still hadn't told Hermione about him and
the crystal. In her mind, it was in the letter they convinced him to write to Sirius. He didn't have anything against Sirius but the guilt of trusting a stranger over him made Harry nervous about talking to him.
Of course, that wasn't the main problem on Harry's mind; somehow, he was a champion in the Tri-Wizard Tournament. A situation he and the school disliked. Everyone, Dumbledore included, were playing a polite but cold game with him. He knew he didn't choose the join the tournament, nothing about it appealed to him and he was too young. Most of his peers assumed it had something to do with his apparent ego as 'the-boy-who-lived' which was more of an insult than an explanation. Fortunately, Hermione believed him and was instead throwing around theories that it had something to do with the death eater attack at the Quidditch World Cup.
"Potter!"
Harry's head snapped up to Professor Snape,
"The recipe Mr Potter…" Snape drawled.
Harry muttered apology before answering, "Ahhh… mash three glow-worms then…"
The Professor slammed a textbook on his desk interrupting Harry, "Mr Potter, can you recall what we've studied for the past week or have you already forgotten…" Harry sheepishly tried to avoid his venomous stare and after a deep breath Snape continued, "Three times crush the beetles, Potter,"
The whole class giggled at him. Forcing him to stare at his textbook to avoid any more insult. After some time, he risked a glance to Ron's direction, He was still grinning, probably finding Harry's mistake amusing out of sheer bitterness. Ron's behavior had really been getting on Harry's nerves. He was acting petty over the tri-wizard mess and Harry couldn't understand what even for. He had made his case pretty clear for Ron but he was still holding a grudge.
The 'great injustice' for Harry wasn't the Durselys, it was fourth year. Thankfully potions class had finished and Harry could finally leave.
-~o~-
Hermione Sat in the great hall, fiddling with a letter and barely touching anything on her plate. She was not a hard person to read, the letter was bothering her. Harry made his way to sit next to her and started to get his lunch. He figured that he should talk to her, maybe find out what that letter was about.
"So I take it, that the cheese scones aren't any good," He jokingly remarked,
Hermione smiled up at him, "No, it's just…" She stopped, looking as though she couldn't find the words she wanted to say.
"The letter?" Harry pried,
Hermione nervously shuffled, "Lucius, actually," She awkwardly stated.
Harry looked back at her with shock. A letter from Lucius would either be an insult or strange. His own concerns then left his mind and were instead replaced with questions, "What did it say?"
"I didn't open it and I don't particularly want to," Hermione sternly replied.
That confused Harry, getting frustrated over an unopened letter seemed a bit silly. The longer it would be left unopened the more questions it would generate.
"Why, wouldn't it be better to know?" Harry tried to explain,
"I guess… but the great wizarding families sort of a have code for letters…" Hermione informed Harry, "It's isn't addressed to me in either ministry approved ink or the Malfoy family ink…"
Harry tried to continue her explanation, "So…"
Hermione sighed, knowing that naturally Harry needed more context, "He didn't write it to me as a member of the ministry or write it to me as head of the Malfoys, so harry, it's a personal letter,"
"Weird…" was all Harry could say.
There was a brief awkward silence between them as they wondered what a personal letter from Lucius might be about.
Harry broke the silence, "Do you think Draco knows?"
Hermione's face flushed red as she exclaimed, "Harry!"
Harry simply shrugged his shoulders. They didn't know what Lucius was really like, he might be into that sort of thing.
"What else could it be?!" He justified
Hermione frowned, "Fine," She sighed, "I'll open it,"
And she did, only to slam the paper on the table and storm off. Harry figured his first thoughts were correct, the letter was a weird insult. He slid the letter over to himself and began to examine it. The letter was overly long, she probably only managed to read the first few lines.
Harry attempted to read the first sentence:
Dearest Hermione… Harry had to suppress a cringe at that, although it is unlikely for a man such as myself to mingle with your kind… He briefly paused while 'Man such as myself' and 'Your kind' echoed throughout his mind. It made sense that Hermione threw down the letter. Understand that I would be a most important role-model for your future. Harry stopped reading the painful letter. Whatever cryptic things Lucius wanted to say he was carefully walking around it.
Now without Hermione in the great hall, Harry had to eat by himself. Normally it wouldn't bother him however after a few awkward mouthfuls, the blatant snubbing from the gryffindors was getting to him. Harry's mind fell back to Hermione's rejected letter, now perceiving it as a wonderful escape from his alienating lunch break. He once again attempted to read the letter. This time he only skim read it as Harry could only stand Lucius's obnoxious writing for so long. From what he got from it, Draco's father was going to drag Hermione out to some play in London that night; then keep her hostage at his manor for the weekend, seemingly for the sake of hospitality?
The invitation only made the letter more baffling. It dawned on Harry that Hermione might not be aware that the letter was an invitation. Lucius had taken a horribly long time to explain his intentions, also none of it was worded in a way that sounded like she a had choice about going out. It read like he was going to waltz into Hogwarts, stride up to the Gryffindor common room then whisk her away for a weekend? It was such a ridiculous thought, Harry could only assume it was a sort of death eater scheme to isolate him further… by being nice to his muggle born friend.
Bizarre was the only thing that could describe Hermione's unwelcome situation. Harry felt somewhat responsible for it, he undoubtedly played a role when Lucius made this plan. The best he could do was warn Hermione about her 'Weekend away' but that would have to wait for study break. He had defense now and felt that Mad-Eye Moody was constantly watching him during that class.
-~o~-
Moody glared at his students while pacing cautiously at the front of the class. Two late boys fumbled into the classroom and hurried to their seats.
Moody gave the boys a sneer before starting his class, "Well… despite what some of you think, the dark arts like most magic comes in many… let's say, varieties…"
The lecture sounded ominous and no one in the class appeared to know where he was going with it.
Moody looked at them all like he about to reveal the tooth fairy wasn't real, "The dark arts are more common than you think…"
He burst out loud chuckles and pointed to a boy in the third row, "When you prank your mate with an itching spell, dark magic," He redirected his piercing attention to a girl in the fifth row, "When you help out your friend by slipping a love potion into her crush's cup, dark arts…"
His voice trailed off as he returned to address the whole class, "It's so common but why is it taboo? Go on, someone speak up!"
The class remained silent, as per usual, too nervous to answer him. Hermione, knowing that someone needed to answer for the lesson to progress, slowly raised her hand although she herself wasn't certain of the answer. With anticipation Moody gestured for her to speak.
Hermione breathed in a little, "Well, the ministry has a set 1-11 spectrum for dark magic… ah- anything more than a graded three dark spell is illegal…"
Grinning to himself Moody happily approved of the answer before further explaining, "Correct, your usual itching spell, about a two; a weak love potion is a three but can hit a five depending on the brew…"
He was pacing about now, the topic was obviously fascinating to him, then continued listing examples, "Most dueling hexes are normally a five or six; A lot of medical spells are a seven if used to inflict harm; The unforgivables are a nine,"
Harry found that strange so he raised his hand to ask, "If spells as bad as the unforgivables are a nine, what could an eleven possibly be?"
Harry now had Moody's undivided attention, "Well boy… there are more elevens than even I would like to admit, Magical rebirth is a gentle eleven, used to be a ten until someone actually read the ritual texts; My personal fascination is Mass-Connected Magic,"
Moody's eyes were now transfixed onto Harry's. He gulped a little when Moody added, "That's You-Know-Who's specialty…"
"And Harry, there's also Gemini Magic…" Moody paused.
Now desperately trying to avoid Moody's glare, Harry's eyes bounced around the classroom but discovered that the rest of the class were staring him down too. Knowing what he had to do to get out of the situation, he gave in and asked Moody what gemini magic was.
"Contorted," was Moody first blunt explanation; he went on to say, "Textbooks will call it the magic created by obsessive love; Two wizards, usually twins, that have so much in common… I guess you could say they start to merge a bit… The stronger their bond the stronger their magic, I'll tell you Harry, it's lucky we don't have two dark lords…"
Harry didn't understand a bit of it, the explanation made him more confused. He glanced at Ron remembering what he mentioned about his brothers and the dolls. As expected Ron was pale and avoiding eye contact. Harry silently admitted he was curious about gemini magic. He didn't at all relate Fred and George to magic darker than the unforgivables. The concept that a love bond can become strong enough to create dark magic was an idea he struggled to understand. It mostly conflicted with what he thought was good and evil magic.
From there, the tension in the defense class gradually died down to its usual awkwardness. Once it had finished, the class left quietly either trying to lighten the mood or figure out what they had just been taught.
-~o~-
The trio sat uncomfortably beside each other. Ron, showcasing his annoyance towards Harry, created a tense atmosphere for the group. With Ron's childish snubbing in Harry's face, he didn't feel like talking, however, Hermione needed to know to what was about to happen to her. He glanced at her, waiting for her to look back in response. She didn't, instead he got a harsh glare from Ron. He'd have to be more obvious, Hermione liked to study too much.
He slid his hand over and nudged her book a little. She tiredly looked at him before mouthing, "What?"
Harry slid over the letter from earlier as quietly stated, "You need to read the rest of it,"
Hermione looked back at Harry with some concern then reluctantly started to read the letter again. Harry was about to go back to his text book but he found himself locked in Ron's pinning stare.
"Another secret huh?" Ron whispered.
Harry took in a deep sigh, he really missed having Ron as a friend, "No, it all happened during lunch and you just happen to not be around," he explained.
Ron huffed in response and continued to doodle in his notebook. Hermione looked up at the two. Her face was a mixture of disgust, shock and confusion. Ron watch her blankly and Harry responded with an expression of sympathy.
"He wants to take me to a play?!" Hermione finally exclaimed causing their peers to look at them.
"Yes," Harry whispered.
"Tonight?!" Hermione added, provoking a confused expression from Ron.
"Yeah," Harry answered, not really sure how to make her feel better about it.
"After this lesson?!" Hermione finished, staring the two of them down.
The two boys simultaneously uttered, "Wait… what?"
"That's what it says," Hermione fluttered the letter in front of their faces, "After your study class, I will retrieve you," she uncomfortably quoted.
Harry admitted that he only skimmed read it and probably mistook it as Lucius waffling in his writing. Whereas Ron just blanked out with his mouth slightly open trying to figure out what the other two were talking about.
"What on earth is going on?!" Ron demanded.
Harry sheepishly looked back to Ron and briefly explained what happened during lunch. Ron's attention bounced between Harry and Hermione during Harry's explanation. The whole thing was absolutely mad. Ron was certain It was a death eater plot and a very strange one at that.
"So, what? You're just gonna let him take you to…" Ron began,
Hermione inserted, "The Journey of Quiplick Toad,"
"A children's play?!" Ron retorted.
"What else can she do Ron?" Harry tried to clarify, "Hide?"
Ron rolled his eyes and huffed. The three sat back in silence aware, they were now getting looks from their supervising professor.
Ron quietly broke the silence, "Speaking of letters… what about the letter for Dumbledore, huh? I suppose that's how you got into the tournament,"
Harry's expression tensed, Ron wouldn't let any detail go. "No Ron, when I gave it to Dumbledore there were no charms on it whatsoever and all that was written in it were two words…" He blandly stated.
Hermione looked up, "two words?" she queried.
"Yeah, something like… Ignorum Obvaus…" Harry recalled.
Hermione hummed in thought before returning to her work. Harry chose to ignore Ron and did the same. Ron glared at the two, choosing to interpret their actions as snubbing. Eventually he too, when back to pretending to write notes in his workbook. The next ten minutes passed in peaceful bliss but like most days in Hogwarts peace was always interrupted.
"Miss Granger!" The professor announced, "Mr Malfoy is waiting for you…"
Hermione slouched towards her book, her hand slid across her face in the hopes that it would shield her from the pending embarrassment. The whole class now knew, probably speculating the most scandalous gossip while she sat. It was out of her control now, Lucius was here and the drama he would create would not be worth hiding in a closet for the weekend. Defeated, she reluctantly stood up, gave her two friends a hopeful yet nervous smile and slowly left the class. It was when she reached the door way that the two boys could see Lucius. He started to chat with Hermione. The boys were concerned by it, whatever he said caused Hermione to flinch slightly then hang her head as she recited, "Thank you, Lord Malfoy,"
The whole class was transfixed to the whole exchange between the two. When they began to leave, Lucius gave Harry a long suspicious stare, once again making him feel weird and confused.
-~o~-
Dinner was especially isolating without Hermione. Harry felt really concerned for her, which did not ease as Ron made his opinion about it clear for anyone keen to hear. Once it seemed appropriate, Harry left the great hall as soon as he could. He didn't bother to sit around the gryffindor common room, the treatment would still be the same. He opted for early sleep or late-night daydreaming.
When he came to his bed he noticed a box wrapped in brown postage paper and a letter sitting neatly on the end of his bed. He internally moaned, another letter therefore another complaint from Ron. He picked up the letter and failed to recognise the handwriting, the letter didn't even have a return address. He opened it and began to read;
To Harrison,
Behold! My master plan to yank you from Hogwarts' isolating grounds and into the world of true magic. No more of that standardised magic nonsense! Within this letter there should be a paper pouch containing special charcoal like flu powder. Just hold your pendulum and think of me whilst you throw the powder to the ground. You should turn up nearby however, I can't guarantee where you end up so our meeting is taking place at the Wood Worm Pub. I imagine that due to growing up with muggles you'd lack some nice robes so I sent you an old one of mine. These tend to be dressy events so sort out your hair a bit too. Don't be too worried about formalities though, we're quite a lax bunch.
I'll see you soon -Mr Gaunt (P.S. be careful of the leaping leeches)
Now a little excited, Harry slid out the paper pouch from the envelope then fiddled with it in his other hand. It seemed Mr Gaunt followed through with his words, that came as a relief for Harry. If Mr Gaunt had kept the pendulum without making an effort to find him, then he would have felt worse for not giving it to Sirius.
He pushed those thoughts aside and proceeded to unpack the robes Mr Gaunt had sent. They were obviously not the current fashion, they were more of a vintage style as opposed to out-of-date. The quality of the tailoring indicated that they might have been expensive when first brought. The robe was a midnight blue paired with a vest of a similar colour only that the fabric slightly shimmered when it caught the light. There were also heavy looking woolen weave dress pants and a neat simple black shirt. He tried to look for a tie but instead found a ribbon and a sliver broach of a snake coiled about elegantly. He figured that somehow, they were meant to replace the tie.
Once in the robes, Harry looked himself over. Working out how he was supposed to wear the ribbon was a bit of a mission. He originally thought that he had to tie it into a bow, that sort of ruined the whole look. Eventually he settled to have it wrapped under his collar and have the ends over lap and cross over, then pinned it down with the broach. That gave the most elegant look. He eyed the broach for a little while, it was more lavish than he first thought. He wondered why Mr Gaunt would just openly lend such a thing to him. He must be an openhearted sort of man. Harry did hope that he would make a good impression on Mr Gaunt's friends, he couldn't deny that he admired the man. If he wasn't welcome for tonight then he probably wouldn't be welcome for the next meeting. Which would be a shame, after all, Mr Gaunt was being one of the friendliest people around him currently.
Somehow, Harry had styled his hair. He didn't trust it to stay so had cast various charms to prevent it from falling out of place. He picked up the paper pouch and poured the content into one hand. Then with the other hand he got out his pendulum and nervously fumbled his fingertips over its smooth surface while he clenched his eyes shut. Picturing Mr Gaunt in his mind, calling out 'Harrison' even though he himself preferred Harry. He threw the powder on the floor and found himself engulfed in black mist. The first thing that hit him was the potent smell of fish.
Slowly as the mist of blackish powder settled, Harry took in his surroundings. He was in some cliff side village by the murky sea side. The cliff itself was mostly black, only discernible because of the yellow lights from the buildings on the cliff face. He looked around warily until he noticed the sign to his distant right with 'Woodworm Pub' written on it.
He quickened his pace towards the sign. Slowly the sea fog drifted onto the walkway and clouded his vision. Harry was soon unable to see the sign, only what was about one and a half meters in front of him. Multiple high-pitched screeches sounded from the bay. The sound grew more and more louder implying the sound's maker was getting closer. Suddenly Harry was yanked back into shelter behind some screen. Then in one swoop, thousands of black slug-like creatures hit the walk way. They only just missed Harry. The bombardment of the creatures lasted a few long minutes. Then faster than before, the sea fog was dragged back to the bay, taking the creatures with it.
"First time, love?"
Harry turned to see a slender woman dressed in a flattering black gown. Her dark brunette Curls surround her head and finished about mid-back, emphasising her porcelain skin and lively eyes.
Harry shyly nodded to her, "So I take it those are the leaping leeches," He recalled.
She giggled, probably at his embarrassment, then confidently proceeded onwards. Harry, not knowing what else to do, followed her lead. As she walked she had a bit of a spring in her step, she was quite up-beat in a sense.
"I see you've made a friend, my lord!" She suddenly announced. Harry looked past her to see what appeared to be a group of three men standing under the woodworm pub sign. One looked like a young slender man with long blonde hair that brushed the top of his shoulders. Another, probably around the same age as the blonde, with slick combed back hair wearing handsome pin-stripe robes. Then the third who was unmistakable with his trademark coffee brown waves and ice blue eyes, Mr Gaunt. Harry felt immediately excited and somewhat relieved when he saw him. The other three must be members of the movement Mr Gaunt mentioned.
Mr Gaunt turned his attention to the woman then noticed the boy wandering up behind her. "Harrison!" He chimed as he casually strode towards them. "I see you've met Bella," He said after exchanging a handshake. He glanced to the woman, "You didn't scare him, did you?".
She gave a quiet chuckle, "No, no, but the leeches sure did,"
He gave Harry a humored looked to which Harry shyly smiled in return. He took in a deep breath, "Well… Harrison this is Bella," He shot Bella sharp glance before quickly perking up again, "Bella, Harrison… Try not to kill him,"
Bella rolled her eyes at Mr Gaunt, "If I didn't know you, I would think you were a mother goose,"
Mr Gaunt eyed her for a moment, "Aren't I always?" he replied straight faced without hesitation.
The two burst into laughter causing Harry to nervously chuckle along with them since he wasn't sure what entirely was happening. The two other men had wondered over to join them as well.
Mr Gaunt smiled at them, "Ahh- yes, the young gentleman in the pin stripes is Barty and the exhausted blonde is Lucius," He then threw his hand onto Harry's shoulder forcing him to wobble, "And this is Harrison,"
Harry smiled at the two men, Lucius gave him a polite nod whereas Barty shook his hand and uttered, "Lad,"
"Speaking of tired blondes," Bella began, "Has Cissy's little dragon been keeping Lulu up all night," She teased.
Lucius furrowed his brows, unimpressed by the nickname given, "Little dragon indeed," He answered, "I imagine he gets it from your side of the family,"
Bella sniggered in victory. Mr Gaunt whispered to Harry so only he could hear, "Lucius has an infant son,"
"Ah-," Harry nodded in understanding.
Barty noted that their Lord was hinting for them to go inside. It was rather obvious, Harrison was probably noticing it too, the way he etched closer to the boy's side was a giveaway. Not to mention his posture, turned towards Harrison, like he was cutting him out from the rest.
He knew he had no choice but to play along, "Well we should probably head in and catch up with the others…"
Lucius raised an eye brow at the remark, he hadn't even got a chance to talk with the new boy. Although, if their Lord's stance was a sign, they probably should go. "Indeed," He agreed.
Bella looked at the others in disappointment but chose to follow along anyway. Something about that boy must have been special to get their Lord's attention and she had an itch to know what. If Harrison was invited, that meant he would become a member of the movement either now or the next meeting. She did however find it curious that he was introduced straight to the inner circle first. Most people meet underlings first. She figured the boy must have been notably powerful therefore needed a closer watch within the ranks. Otherwise their Lord wouldn't have bothered with him at all.
-~o~-
Harry watched them enter the pub leaving him with Mr Gaunt. He looked back to Mr Gaunt who was sporting his usual calm charming grin. He relaxed somewhat, sensing the ease in Mr Gaunt was calming in a way.
"I had a feeling that colour would suit you," Mr Gaunt remarked.
"Oh- the robes, ah- thank you… they're the nicest I've worn, I think…" Harry blurted out, "And that's a really nice scarf too… silk?"
"Thank you and indeed it is," Mr Gaunt watched the boy amused, "Are you nervous by chance?"
"A little," Harry admitted, "I just want to make a good impression,"
Mr Gaunt laughed in response, "I wouldn't worry about good impressions, that's Lucius's problem,"
Harry smiled in response, unsure how else to react. "Can I ask you something?" Harry suggested.
"Certainly! go right ahead,"
"Well…" Harry Began, "I noticed that Bella called you a lord?"
Mr Gaunt fidgeted like he was conflicted with something in his mind, "You could say I'm of a superior stance, being their leader and all…"
Harry was taken back, "This is your movement?!"
"Naturally," Mr Gaunt silkily remarked, "I'm the type who likes to fix problems, you know,"
"Wow, I've never met anyone who could really pull that off…" Harry paused, "Besides Dumbledore…" His voice trailed off, knowing that Dumbledore was a sensitive topic for Mr Gaunt. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to…"
Mr Gaunt stuck up his hand to stop him, "No need, Harrison, everyone knows that old fossil doesn't count,"
Harry smiled back at him, unsure whether to explain about Dumbledore or not. He did feel slightly curious about what had made Mr Gaunt dislike Dumbledore. However, he suspected it would reveal its self over time. Also, an attempt to pry could lead to him loosing Mr Gaunt, considering the treatment from his fellow gryffindors, he didn't think it would be wise to further isolate himself.
"So, what happens in these meetings?" Harry asked.
"Depends on the political tide," Mr Gaunt began to explain, "Usually starts off with a summary of the past events in the movement; I discuss my thoughts on it then give a speech which usually turns into a rally, the challenging times gets to them sometimes; Then I make a toast and have drinks with the inner circle before giving my final commands,"
Mr Gaunt was very nonchalant about the meeting, Harry wondered if he had them quite regularly. "Seems kind of straight forward, I didn't expect you'd be giving orders though," He remarked
Mr Gaunt hung his left arm over Harry's shoulders and they started to make their way into the pub, "Well boy, we don't have time for pedantic formalities; If we don't act fast, we'll be stomped down. All of that progress would be lost," He explained.
"I guess that makes sense" Harry commented.
Once in the foyer of the pub, Mr Gaunt quickly tidied himself up. Harry tried to do the same but he knew his hair was a lost cause. Then, just as Mr Gaunt was about to enter the pub, he turned on his toes and happily chimed, "Also, you'll be speaking as a part of my speech," before leaving.
-~o~-
"My followers, welcome!" Mr Gaunt announced far more upbeat than usual. It wouldn't be wise to play a power dynamic around Harrison, he might mistake it as fear mongering. The crowd before him timidly bowed their heads, probably confused by his new attitude. "What have you collected for me?" He requested.
Grey was the first to step forward and simply stated, "From what I've encountered, your suspicions may be correct my lord,"
He had ordered Grey to do some secret investigation a while back; Grey was rather reliable when it came to keeping things vague. Mr Gaunt deeply breathed, "I see," was all he could say at the given moment.
"Another five successful raids, my lord," Someone in the left of the crowd called.
That must have been one of his underlings; he had honestly forgotten how many there were and certainly had forgotten all their names. He nodded in response, not keen to elaborate on the details in front of Harrison.
Finally, Lucius stepped forward. The reason for this meeting was because of the news he had to bring.
"My lord," He greeted as he bowed low. It was quite annoying how formal the man could be. "Slytherin Castle has been located and currently it is under possession of the muggle government,"
He couldn't help but chuckle at this information. Of all things to have his ancestral home, it had to be the muggles. "Brilliant, that will make things easier for us," He answered, making the crowd roar. He took a brief glance at Harrison who stood shyly by the entrance, he was smiling but obviously confused.
"My followers," He started, "Soon Slytherin Castle will be returned to its rightful heir, creating an epicenter for our new regime,"
Harry hadn't really recognised how casual Mr Gaunt had been with him until he started speaking to the crowd. The atmosphere he created demanded his respect. It made sense that Mr Gaunt could lead a movement.
"Indeed, great progress we have made, however, it is in these grand moments that we must remind ourselves why we are here," Mr Gaunt continued.
The crowd died down into a contemplative silence. Bella leaned back onto her husband's shoulder, He briefly glanced at her before muttering, "This must be the most sugar-coated meeting I've ever been too…".
Bella smirked, he was right. "It's because of the boy," nudged her head to Harrison's direction.
Her husband glared at the shy boy, "The new ones aren't usually brought to these sorts of things…" He grunted.
Bella smiled amused, "The Lord has a soft spot for him," She explained.
Mr Gaunt paced a bit, "Witches and Wizards used to be burned at the stakes, unwelcome, outcasts…" He eyed the people in the front of the crowd, "The discrimination continued, some suppressed their magic out of fear; An entire generation didn't know about magic as their parents believed it as safer; The ministry failed to provide relief, instead they boxed and categorised magic,"
Continuing with his speech he dawned a sense of contemplation, "Magic exists across infinite spectrums and dimensions, to declare that magic is either light or dark is just," He scoffed, "nonsense!". "I'm sure you all know times when the ministry has turned a blind eye in the favour of the muggles' privilege," He added.
He slowed his pacing and looked towards Harrison, "54 years ago, they believed that magical children can be entrusted to the muggles, naturally, I speak from first-hand experience and I can assure you the muggles have no regard for magic and her power,".
"Do you think that it has changed? My loyal followers, are our efforts enough?" He called out to the crowd, simultaneously maintaining his watch over Harrison, "Harrison come forth," He commanded.
Harry froze, that must have been his que or something. The crowd made a path for him over to where Mr Gaunt was addressing them. He nervously made his way towards Mr Gaunt, sensing that just standing there would seem weird. Once he got across the room, Mr Gaunt wrapped and arm around him and rested his hand on Harry's shoulder then led him into position.
"Harrison," Mr Gaunt began, his voice gentler, "Has it changed in those 50 years? Do muggles still mistreat those of magical blood?"
Harry anxiously paused, eyed the bar full of followers that watched him, then returned to address Mr Gaunt. He had a suspicion as to what Mr Gaunt wanted him to inform them. For a second he thought the whole group, Mr Gaunt included, were exaggerating. But then a quiet voice within him that said he was being belittled. If maybe, he was tired of it all; the Dursleys, Voldemort and the constant mind games. That same voice then asked if he did want their sympathy. He was becoming unsure whether he was a victim or he wanted to be a victim. Seeking refuge from those thoughts, He focused onto Mr Gaunt's ice Blue eyes. They held a powerful sense of neutrality which reassured him.
"Unfortunately, it hasn't really," Harry uttered, "I know because after my parents died I was sent to live with my muggle aunt's family and they don't exactly think highly of me,"
"How so?" Mr gaunt softly pried.
Harrison tightened his lips. Given the situation he would have to explain otherwise he would embarrass himself in front of the crowd. "Well," He began, "My Uncle always hides my wand from me in case I 'do something'…" He hoped his response was enough to stop Mr Gaunt from prying into the topic.
"Do something? What do you mean?" A part of Mr Gaunt was genuinely curious. He suspected it was the usual up roar of random magic children often summoned without realising it. Although, these things tended to create good stories and could probably break the ice for the boy.
Harry responded by blurting out the first thing that came into his mind, "Once, at the zoo, I was talking with a snake and then my cousin came over and the glass of the enclosure disappeared, so he fell into the pond while the snake thanked me and slithered away,"
Everyone chuckled at his story. "Then the glass reappeared so he was stuck in there," Harry added making the crowd snigger even more.
Mr Gaunt muffled Harrison's hair, "Brilliant," He proudly remarked.
"Obviously my uncle wasn't pleased so…" Harry paused, slightly unsure whether he should tell the crowd, then decided to continue, "I wasn't allowed meals for the following three days…"
The crowd loudly protested, exclaiming radical ideas about muggles, harry wasn't quite sure how to react. He felt himself pressed towards Mr Gaunt's side, relieving some of the shock. Obviously, no one in Mr Gaunt's movement would actually follow through with their claims, Mr Gaunt was far too level minded and fair to let them act like death eaters.
"I think the evidence is sufficient," Mr Gaunt Concluded, "There is still much to be done,"
He glanced down to Harrison, who returned the look with his classic nervous but optimistic smile. "We can all fight the oppression in our own ways, I personally use my delightful charm to outwit the muggles' privilege," Mr Gaunt began. Some members smirked at his casual attitude and pride which he answered with a sarcastic look of shock.
"Others, for example…" He stopped at stared pointedly at Lucius, "Counter muggle privilege with wizard inheritance…"
Lucius rolled his eyes annoyed while everyone else roared in laughter. Bella appeared to find the remark especially funny even though she was somewhat guilty of it too.
Mr Gaunt turned back to Harrison, "Some can choose to call upon magic and I will answer in her place,". He smiled and once again faced the crowd, "A toast!" He announced.
Suddenly jugs of beer was passed through out the crowd, everyone buzzed with enthusiasm for the coming toast. Harry quietly declined the drink, he still had to go back to Hogwarts.
"For Sytherin's Castle and the future it will bring!" Mr Gaunt called.
The crowd thrusted their drinks into the air before swiftly downing their pints. For Harry it was a little disconcerting how effortless the group made it look to drink that fast. Afterwards the crowd seemed to thin out to about fourteen maybe twelve people in the span of five minutes.
-~o~-
Harry found himself unsure of what to do. Mr Gaunt was preoccupied talking with someone in a back room also he didn't know anyone besides Bella, Barty and Lucius, who he had just met. He figured this was his time to leave but Mr Gaunt had failed to provide him with a return plan back to Hogwarts.
"Harrison,"
He turned to the voice and saw Lucius standing next to Barty and some other men.
"Are you a quidditch boy?" Lucius queried,
Harry wondered over to the group. "Yeah, I'm the seeker of my team," he answered back.
Lucius smiled back fondly, although they shared a name, he was very different to Draco's dad. Much younger for a start and not nearly as prim and proper looking. "Ahh- I see, a boy of your build would make for a good seeker," He remarked.
"Shame about the eye sight," one of the other men remarked. He had an all-round gloomy demeanor; thin, pale with ruff stubble and damp, saggy looking hair. He probably looked handsome once but he had no desire to maintain it.
"Oi!" Bella called from the bar counter, "Be polite to the duckling, there may be consequences from mother goose,"
The man shrugged and uttered back, "Very well my love, but I prefer to think of our lord as a swan,"
"Oh?," Barty interjected amused, "What do you reckon Rolph, an elegant white or ominous black?"
He huffed in response, "White obviously, he's utterly vicious and you can't kill him,"
The group of men chuckled. Before Bella strutted over to them, "That's my husband, Rolphy," She cheerfully informed Harry. He gave the man a smile which he tipped his glass in return.
"Don't worry, I have no intention of calling you by that, sir," Harry jokingly added.
"Good," He clarified, "Roldolphus will do, boy,"
"So how is this season of Quidditch?" Barty asked.
Harry grimaced, "There isn't a quidditch season this year, because of the tri-wizard tournament…"
Everyone was taken back by that, exchanging glances with hopes for clarification. None of them were exactly sure if Harry had told them the truth.
"I was under the impression that the tri-wizard tournament was at least a decade away," Mr Gaunt had left the back room and was now joining the group, curious about the confusion among them.
Lucius decided to speak up, "Surely there would have been something in the prophet,"
Harry simply shrugged, he had been interviewed by Rita Skeeter but the news might have not reached them yet.
Mr Gaunt watched them bicker over it. He personally wasn't all that interested, closest he ever came for an interest in sport was his brief quidditch run at Hogwarts. After that came crashing down, he loathed the game and sport in general. He never thought the trials of the tournament were worth eternal glory so he never gave it much consideration after that. internally he sighed, he wanted Harrison to join so desperately. "So, who are the champions? They would have been selected by now," He asked.
Harry dropped some of his ease, regaining his previous nervousness, "Well there's Fleur from Beauxbatons," He started to list.
"Beauxbatons?" Bella remarked, "That's in France correct?"
There were some nods from the other members of the group.
"Ah- and Victor Krum, the famous seeker? from Drumstrang," Harry added.
"Ah- yes Drumstrang, I hope to send my boy there," Lucius Commented with some approving nods from the men.
"Then Cedric and yeah…" Harry lost his words, slightly afraid to confess he too was a champion.
"Cedric?" Barty questioned, "Gryffindor I take it? It's the sort of thing Gryffindors would do,"
"Not quite," Harry explained, "Hufflepuff"
There were a lot of raised eyebrows. "Well, well, they're bringing more huffle to puff," Bella joked.
Harry checked on each of them. They all didn't appear to have noticed his stutter or they chose to ignore it. Maybe he'd get away with avoiding the topic completely.
"Harrison," Mr Gaunt gently tapped his shoulder. Harry looked at him and saw that he was motioning him away from the group. He followed Mr Gaunt off to a somewhat secluded table in the corner of the pub.
Mr Gaunt tensed his brows in a concerned manner then quietly asked, "Is there something bothering you?"
"Uhh-," was all Harry could voice.
"Harrison, if there's a problem I will not hesitate to help you," He assured Harrison, "What is it? Grades? Bullies even?"
"Oh no, no… it's just… ah-," Harry took a deep breath. He knew he had to confide to someone and Mr Gaunt was hopefully too kind to judge him for his situation. "Someone put my name in the goblet of fire… and now…" Once again pausing before his final confession, "I'm also a champion,"
Harry stared at the floor, his body was ridged and his fists were clenched. He waited for Mr Gaunt's reaction but nothing came to pass. Cautiously he met eyes with Mr Gaunt and found his attitude hadn't changed and he had only raised an intrigued brow at the statement.
"So, I am to understand that against your wishes your name was put in the goblet, thus making you a candidate…" Mr Gaunt clarified.
"Yes," Harry confirmed, still anxiously waiting for his disapproval.
Mr Gaunt hummed with deep thought. Then he smirked and that smirk grew to a snigger which became full out laughter. Harry watched him laugh with shock.
"That is…" Mr Gaunt mumbled between giggles, "Oh, how foolish!". Mr Gaunt was now covering his face, trying to reign in his amusement. It died down to a giggle but the smirk refused to retreat.
"Harrison, would I be correct in thinking that whoever put your name in the cup did so with the hopes that you'd die in the trials?" Mr Gaunt began.
"That's what me and my friends think,"
Once again, Mr Gaunt sniggered, "And that person must have done so with such strong confidence you would also be selected too,". He took another long pause, basking in the humor of the situation, "Meaning that this person, who wants to kill you, knows that you have a powerful enough magical influence to be chosen, yet, is under the impression it isn't strong enough to last three magical trials,"
Harry was struggling with what he was concluding. Mr Gaunt wrapped an arm around Harry's shoulder and hugged him slightly. "The goblet wouldn't have chosen you, if you lacked the tools or were under prepared," He assured Harry, "The fact that you were chosen as a fourth champion further proves your capability, there's only meant to be three after all,"
Harry leaned into him, smiling a little, causing Mr Gaunt to rest his cheek on his head. "If this fool of a wizard really wanted to kill you, he should have done it himself instead of giving you a chance to become a stronger wizard than you already are," He concluded.
Harry giggled, when it was put like that, it did sound silly. Mr Gaunt then suddenly dragged harry into the middle of the pub, where everyone could see, opened an old looking bottle of whiskey and shoved a glass to Harry. Harry eyed it a bit, he never had fire whiskey before or alcohol in general.
After briskly pouring himself a glass, Mr Gaunt called for the attention of his followers. "It would seem that Harrison…" He elbowed Harry, making him almost loose his balance, "Is a Tri-wizard Champion!"
At first there were sniggers but it was quickly followed with applause and cheers. Mr Gaunt thrusted his glass into the air and confidently exclaimed, "For Harrison! Our fourth Tri-Wizard Champion!". Then he downed his whiskey and slammed his glass on the nearby table. "Make Slytherin proud," He finished. Then everyone in the room followed his lead and downed a glass or two.
Harry watched the liquid swirl in his glass while he wondered if he was allowed to drink it or should. That was when Mr gaunt placed his index finger under his glass pushed it upwards, giving no other option but to skull it. It tasted horrible and the after-burn it left made it worse.
"You adjust to the flavour," Roldolphus informed him. Harry, unable to offer any words, merely nodded in response.
Mr Gaunt returned to chatting with the other members, "I don't care for the ministry's age restrictions, if magic deems the boy worthy enough to compete in that tournament, he should at least be allowed a drink along with it," he grumbled.
"Indeed," Lucius uttered in response while the others nodded or grunted in agreement.
-~o~-
The first half of the play had concluded. It was a bizarre show, full of riddles and various underlying meanings. Hermione finished applauding as the curtain came down, abandoning Her in the unnerving silence of their private booth.
Lucius, well aware of the contempt aimed at him, was somewhat at ease. Seemly he enjoyed the play more than Hermione. After a sigh of hesitation, he started to make conversation, "How is it so far?"
"Confusing," was Hermione's short and blunt answer.
"I thought you'd enjoy that," Lucius attempted to chat once more, "The dialogue and situations are most intriguing I think; I find my mood changes the interpretation, so in ways, it's a different play each time,"
Hermione, still looking at the stage although there was nothing to see, grimaced. She had known since they left Hogwarts that Lucius desperately wanted something from her. Everything he did oozed of ulterior motive. She couldn't play along with his tedious plan anymore, she wanted the whole ordeal to end.
"What do you want?" She finally demanded.
"Excuse me?"
"What do you want from me? Why are we here!" She clarified.
"What did you think of the story?" He passively responded.
She sneered at him. "That's not an answer," she retorted.
"Indeed…" Lucius stopped and narrowed his eyes, "The play could be my answer,". He now had Hermione's reluctant attention. However, she felt strongly skeptical about what he meant. "Think about it, the boy, the toad, all the misadventures…" He further elaborated.
"I think the boy doesn't like the toad and further insults the toad by making it conform as he desires," She bitterly concluded.
Lucius hummed while he briefly thought about Hermione's opinion. "My view is that the boy was very fond of Quiplick and instead, was trying become to friends," He explained, "Alternatively, both the boy and toad were toying with the other…"
Hermione looked away from him, refusing to think what undertones his suggestions may possess. "Everything in this play is completely subjective; if you're looking for something, it will be there; if not, then you're just left confused," She tried to argue back.
"Exactly,"
Hermione bit back her need to disagree and instead focused back on the stage.
"This world is nothing more than what is lived," He answered, "I see signs that a positive alliance with you would benefit us both, but as you say, everything is subjective,"
They both went quiet again. Then as if on que, the stage curtain rose signalling the start of the second half.
-~o~-
It must have been early morning by now. Everyone else had left, even the bartenders, it was just Harry and Mr Gaunt lounging by a roaring fire. Out of weariness, Harry lay on the arm of Mr Gaunt who was spread across three quarters of the chaise. A small voice told Harry that Sirius would be disappointed with him being at ease with Mr Gaunt But he remained consistently comforting and considerate. He never felt like he was the boy-who-lived around him, just normal or as normal as a young wizard could feel. They had spent the past hours in quiet peace. The sound of the crackling fire teasing them to sleep. Mr Gaunt had gotten tired too. Eventually he withdrew from conversation and that was when everyone started to leave.
"Harrison," He spoke.
"Yeah?"
"Tell me about your classes, I'm curious about how things have changed," He politely requested.
"Mostly just the usual foot long assignments and workbook readings," Harry recounted, "Most of the school isn't impressed about me being a champion so I mostly study with Hermione,".
Mr Gaunt stretched out his legs and lazily threw an arm around Harry. "What about good ol' defense against the dark arts?" he tiredly inquired.
"Moody is our teacher," Harry replied.
"Moody? As in Mad-eye Moody the Auror?" Mr Gaunt speculated.
"Ex-auror now,"
Mr Gaunt shook his head, "The old fool must be really off his rocker,"
Harry chuckled and added, "Yeah, he even gave a lesson on the unforgivables, complete with demonstrations,"
Mr Gaunt scoffed, "Not on the students I hope…"
"I don't think McGonagall would let that happen," Harry mentioned.
"Today's lesson was strange too," Harry remembered, "It think we were learning about the variety of dark magic and the ministry's measures for it… maybe?"
Mr Gaunt snorted, "Measure for magic, how ridiculous!"
"Harrison," He began to advise, "Don't get caught up in the whole light vs dark speculation; Magic is magic, to deem a part of it dark or taboo and dismiss it only makes you a weaker wizard,"
Flopping his head onto Harry's and squeezing him a little he finished with, "Let curiosity guide you and magic will find you,"
Harry inquired, "Have you ever used dark magic, like serious dark magic?"
Mr Gaunt let his hold on Harry loosen, "Yes, it's nowhere near as menacing or dramatic as it's built up to be,"
"Well- In class, Moody mentioned something that I didn't quite understand," Harry mumbled.
"And what might that be?" Mr Gaunt pried with amusement.
"Gemini Magic," Harry said back.
Mr Gaunt sniggered at the response, naturally Moody would have heard about that. "To be honest Harrison, it's quite a rare talent, even harder to identify," Mr Gaunt attempted to explain.
Harry further slumped onto Mr Gaunt's side and exclaimed, "I was always taught that love is a powerful light magic but then I found out about gemini magic and now I'm confused,"
Mr Gaunt took a deep breath in, he knew this would be a long explanation, "Light and dark have a difference in feel," He began, "You can read as many textbooks as you like about the two but the explanations will blur together,". He looked at Harrison and saw that he was somewhat grasping the idea but needed a more obvious answer. "In other words, you have to experience dark magic in order to understand the difference," He rephrased.
"That makes sense…" Harry muttered timidly. He shouldn't have asked about it, it was just a silly curiosity lingering at the back of his mind. It wouldn't be any help to him at all.
Mr Gaunt looked pointedly at Harry. "There's nothing shameful about it; if your curious about Gemini Magic why not try and discover it?" He tried to reassure.
"Find it? Wouldn't I learn it?" Harry responded.
"Interesting magic or 'powerful' magic isn't taught, it's uncovered; like the ability to shield your mind for example," Mr Gaunt clarified.
"Oh,"
The room fell back to cosy silence. Mr Gaunt was probably too tired to think of what else to say. While Harry was caught in a contemplative head-space full of concerns and worries then curiosity. However, that enthusiasm would not be rewarded. Gemini magic was dark magic and Voldemort would be far too pleased to watch him fall to the dark.
Eventually the two had fallen asleep and only realised it when they had woken to dim grey sunlight flowing through the thinly weaved curtains.
-~o~-
"I suppose I have to send you back," Mr Gaunt regretfully remembered while he and Harrison wandered the walkways of Obsidian Bay.
"Everyone is probably searching for me like mad…" Harry sighed, he sensed a fight with Ron was in his coming future.
"Perhaps they can wait a little longer," Mr Gaunt suggested, "My favorite cake shop is nearby,"
Harry sneakily smiled, "It's only a weekend, it shouldn't be too bad,"
"Wonderful, my treat!" Mr Gaunt chimed, now picking up his pace with a bounce in his step.
Harry happily followed after him. Before long they had reached the top of the cliff where the town leveled-out onto the flat ground as opposed to the cliff face walkways. On a corner, there was a glossy black townhouse with large bay windows. Above its' forest green door was a sign that read, "Blackwater Cakes, delights for any mood,". Mr Gaunt led the way into the shop. Inside was full of overly plush sofas near delicate looking coffee tables and cushions covered the bay window benches making them appear more like pillow mounds rather than seats.
They wandered over to the counter where a thin woman with wavy golden hair, dressed in a peach coloured bustle gown, greeted them. "Well, I haven't seen you around in a while," She remarked.
"Indeed, it has been a long time Julia," Mr Gaunt reminisced, "But since I'm in town and have Harrison as company, I see it a well enough excuse to indulge,"
"Oh, so you must be Harrison?" The woman redirected her attention to Harry, "How sweet, I'm Julia,"
Harry smiled back at Julia. She appeared to be nice enough but from the way her cheeks flushed when she saw Mr Gaunt enter made it look like she fancied him. That thought made Harry realise something. Last night Mr Gaunt spoke about the discrimination done to him about 50 years ago. Therefore, Mr Gaunt had to be at least in his 50s, yet, looked in his early 30s. He wondered if he should ask Mr Gaunt more about that.
Mr Gaunt began to order, "Naturally an occasion like this will require a dark chocolate mud cake, two euphoria lotus cookies and I think the jug of the specialty lemonade…"
"Wonderful! in the private room I take it?" She beamed back.
"That would be much appreciated," Mr Gaunt said as he handed over ten gallons, which Harry struggled not to be surprised at.
Julia then led them into the back corridor and up the stairs until they reached the third floor. Then brought them to a side room where a small round table for four occupied the center. Looking out to the dark ocean was another large bay window decorated with thick cotton drapes. From this height, the view was quite breath taking; Harry could happily watch the water clash into the black obsidian cliff for hours.
After Julia had left, Mr Gaunt gestured for Harry to take the seat opposite him. "Homely, isn't it?" Mr Gaunt exclaimed.
Harry took in his surroundings a little more, "Yeah, it is,".
"So… Julia, she seems," He began to imply.
"You sly boy!" Mr Gaunt mockingly retorted, "Julia, like most of my acquaintances, is a hopeful young lady,"
Harry sniggered before further teasing him, "Yes, a woman half your age and interested only in the prosperity brought by your movement,"
"Obviously," Mr Gaunt stated back, "As for age, you should know there's a potion for everything,"
They started to laugh but had to quickly pull it together when Julia knocked from behind the door.
"I've brought the lemonade," She announced unloading the jug onto the table along with two glasses.
"The cake may take a little longer, best fresh and all," She said blushing before leaving.
Mr Gaunt eyed Harry whose had his lips tensed shut withholding the flood of laughter in his mind. "Quit it," He halfheartedly warned.
Harry exhaled before surrendering, "Alright, alright…"
Mr Gaunt took the jug and poured their drinks. His attention strayed from the task and endearingly back to Harrison. "So…" He began, "I imagine Hogwarts is full of many wonderful ladies…"
Harry somewhat taken back by the suggestion took the glass Mr Gaunt offered and embarrassingly smiled.
Mr Gaunt chuckled in triumph, "Well, well, I wonder what kind of girl you have your eye on?"
Harry sustained his smile but his cheeks flushed somewhat remembering the girls at Hogwarts.
While maintaining his gaze on Harrison, Mr Gaunt further slouched back on his chair, "If you don't confess soon I might be tempted to read your mind," Harrison still offered no name leaving Mr Gaunt dissatisfied. He hummed in thought before guessing, "Perhaps the one you mentioned last night? The girl you study with… Hermione? Unique name, I admit I've never heard of a Hermione in slytherin, ravenclaw maybe?"
Harry laughed at the idea of him and Hermione. Sure, she was interesting and helpful but could be very commanding at times. This whole situation would launch a long rant from her. "No! no… no," Harry stumbled to exclaim, "Ahh- she's really more of a close friend,"
"Oh?" Mr Gaunt voiced, his entertainment plain to see.
Harry once again fumbled with his words, "Cho… I mean, Cho Chang, she has a really pretty smile and, and ah- long silky black hair… and well yeah,".
Mr Gaunt didn't say anything for a while, merely watched him with a bemused grin.
"Are you satisfied with my torment?" Harry rhetorically pleaded.
"Very,"
Once again Julia returned now carrying a beautiful cake. Harry couldn't help but stare in awe at the dessert. It was indeed a dark chocolate, the colour of it leaned closer to black than the usual chocolate brown. Nonetheless it had the sheen that most high-quality chocolates carried. She placed it in the center of the table along with a cake slice. She then left only to return shortly after with plates and cake forks as well as what looked like two lotus flowers.
"Well, that's everything!" Julia announced, "Just ask for anything else," Then left them in peace.
Harry closely examined the lotus cookie, it seemed to have a dark blue, dome shaped crisp biscuit as the base then the impressive piped lotus on top.
"what does it taste like?" he asked, still admiring the cookie's appearance.
"This is a curious little place," Mr Gaunt began to remark, "Cakes for any mood..." he whimsically uttered. "It tastes of euphoria," He finally stated picking up his own treat.
"Euphoria?" Harry repeated back confused by the answer, "What does euphoria taste like?"
"Eat it and find out," Mr Gaunt enthused before biting into his.
After the first bite, Mr Gaunt's posture eased. His face relaxed while his eyes were momentarily glossed over. His lips spread into a grin of awe. Harry watched his change in demeanor, whatever the biscuit tasted like it seemed to please Mr Gaunt.
As smoothly as the sensation came it also left. Mr Gaunt drank some lemonade to clean his palate for the next bite. "It's a shame, I can only get about six and half bites out of one," He uttered, "And having any more is dangerous,"
Harry bit into his, chewed for a bit then was overwhelmed by a sensation. It was heart thumping like taking a dive on his broom stick. Also simultaneously as wonderful as walking into Diagon Alley for the first time. Then kind of unnerving, the same feeling in his gut when he meets eyes with Cho. Then it all faded away, leaving him wanting more simply to understand it better. His attention came back into focus. Mr Gaunt had already gotten half way through his. Harry soon discovered that the after-taste of the cookie was horribly bitter and drank his lemonade to wash it out.
"You know Harrison," Mr Gaunt mumbled in half daze, "It's like, like the old times... you know the really old times for me,"
Harry continued to eat his cookie while listening to Mr Gaunt. He didn't have a clue what Mr Gaunt was talking about. He wasn't all that bothered by it too.
"Back around my thirties, me, a handful of followers and my apprentice," Mr Gaunt continued to ramble, "You're nothing like him by the way; you're nowhere near as confident as him,"
Some how Mr Gaunt slumped further back in his chair, "But that's perfect Harrison, truly; I would have loves for you to join the movement but your obviously so preoccupied with the tournament and Hogwarts, it would be an unfair request,"
Harry stretched his neck a little, "I don't what to do about the whole tournament situation," He admitted, "Everyone has turned their backs on me, even my best friend,"
Mr Gaunt picked up the cake slice and began to serve slices of cake, "Harrison, you're got the magic, you just need a flexible game plan like in quidditch,"
Harry Gratefully accepted his piece of cake. He had eaten his whole cookie without realising it, that had left him craving more and hopefully the cake would stop that.
Harry spoke once more, "Any advice?"
Harry was answered with Mr Gaunt's casual charming manor, "Perhaps, something a bit more useful instead? You're about in fourth year, right?"
Harry nodded in agreement.
"Then you probably are a little lacking in your practical spellwork, how about some one-on-one mentoring? That way no matter what the trial is you'll be more better able to adapt," Mr Gaunt suggested.
"That would be wonderful," Harry beamed with gratitude and a little relief.
"No problem, how about Saturday in the forbidden forest? Wouldn't want your rivals catching onto your tricks and all," Mr Gaunt suggested
"Should be fine, me and gamekeeper are on good terms; if he knew it was for the tournament, I'm sure he'd be fine with it,"
"Wonderful," Mr Gaunt confirmed. After their finishing their morning tea the two ended up spending to rest of the day together. They wandered around some of the shops joking that they were on a mission to find the most useless spell until Bella insisted they join her for lunch at her husband's summer house. It was a large lunch too, more food for four than at the Durselys or Hogwarts. Bella's reasoning for it was that Harry was too thin for age. Talk about the tournament eventually came around and surprisingly Roldolphus keen to help as well. Eventually Harry and Mr Gaunt eased themselves out of Bella's consuming hospitality and were able to say their good-byes before Harry returned to Hogwarts.
-~o~-
Ron wasn't at all impressed by Harry's behavior. Yet, somehow he had decided to once more sit him with him during classes and meals. Perhaps the weekend with both Harry and Hermione gone had made him realise how important their friendship was to him or maybe felt honor bound to ensure nothing would escape his notice.
"You were gone for a whole night and most of the following day, Harry," Ron once more pried, "No one simply goes into the common room to disappear then return the next day in a fancy robe,"
"I should probably return it to him," Harry mindlessly recalled.
"Return to who?" Ron stressed, "Harry, explain this to me!"
Hermione then entered the great hall and joined the two for their Monday morning breakfast. Her face was exhausted and locked in a stern expression of deep contemplation and confusion.
"Ginny said that Misses Malfoy had spoiled you with the latest fancy cosmetics or something..." Ron recalled, hoping that something positive came out of her clearly horrible weekend away.
"She did," Hermione responded, "I'm not quite sure what to think of the gesture,"
Harry reluctantly cut to the chase, "So what exactly happened? Was it what we thought?"
Hermione remained silent trying to come up with the shortest answer, "I don't think they want to harm us... as in it benefits them to be nice to us... for some reason,"
Ron scrunched his forehead trying to understand, "I don't get what you mean, Hermione,"
Hermione shook off some bothersome thought and started to plate her breakfast. She was about to start eating when she offhandedly remarked, "Mr Malfoy seemed to want to know if you had given one of those crystals to someone else,"
Harry stopped eating and met her glare. "Are you sure you sent one to Sirius..." he demanded.
"Yeah..."
Ron decided to speak up, "Then who did you run off to in the weekend?"
"What?" Hermione exclaimed, "Harry!"
"It's true, the night you were at the show Harry disappeared then reappeared the next evening," Ron elaborated.
Harry was feeling the pressure. Now would not be a good time to explain his involvement with the random and strange man known only as Mr Gaunt. Ron would have a tantrum and Hermione looked as though she would scream.
Putting on a strong firm front, He did his best to shut down the interrogation before more trouble arose, "Look. I did give the crystal to Sirius, okay? As for the weekend, we went out and it was wonderful; I got to have my first fire whiskey, meet new people and had delicious food. As for the robes, Ron, he lent it to me,"
Harry knew Sirius didn't have the spare crystal which only made the explanation more aggravating. However, other than that, the rest of it was true so that should somewhat make up for it.
Ron exhaled deeply, "You could have said that from the start you know, I worried about you"
Harry grimaced. "With all the stuff that's happened, you could have been in serious danger for all I knew," Ron confessed.
Harry looked at his two friends, his head was bubbling over with emotions despite little of it showing. He apologized but for far more than they knew of.
"Alright," Hermione finally spoke, "It's just, I got a strong impression Mr Malfoy was looking for something to confirm a theory of his,"
-~o~-
Dumbledore strolled down the corridor, holding a note in his hand, thinking over the spontaneous fortunetelling the divination teacher forced upon him.
I see, yes, I see many things
many details- important details
obvious all of them- but unnoticed
The creature
A young gemini
A Father and a brother
And a note...
Yes... the note...
the note will cause great harm.
Then he was approached my Mrs McGonagall. "Do you know where I left my test papers can't seem to find them?" She inquired.
"I'm afraid not," Dumbleddore replied, "However, may I have your opinion on something?"
"Certainly,"
"What is your impression of this," He requested handing her the note.
She looked down and read the two prominent words; Ignorum Obvaous.
"Seems harmless to me," She concluded, returning the note.
Dumbledore smiled back at her, "Then all must be well," he said before continuing down the corridor.