[A/N: This chapter is going to have a few more mistakes than the past
chapters. I sent it to my beta-reader about a week ago and she has still
not gotten back to me. I have decided that I want to get the chapters out
once a week, every Thursday. So, if you want to read this before the beta
reading, have fun! Otherwise, I will post the beta-read version as soon as
she responds. Enjoy!]
Harry would have checked, by opening the door, to see if Dudley was asleep, but the snores that came crashing down the hall from his room were probably audible from the Americas. The boy who lived crept out into the hall trying to be as silent as possible, his wand held professionally in his grasp. A slight smirk played across his features as he opened the door do Dudley's room a crack. The snores increased in volume tenfold as Harry opened the door enough to allow the sound a clear path to him. He slowly slunk into the room, trying not to wake his cousin. However, even if Harry had been trying to wake him he would have had quite the time of doing it.
Harry crept over to the drawers of Dudley's clothes, pulling them out to display the contents long enough for Harry to cast a charm from his wand onto his cousin's garments. After about fifteen minutes of diligent work Harry had managed to charm all of Dudley's clothes. Harry tromped loudly over to him and said quite loudly, "Alright, you lazy git! Git- I mean, get up!"
Dudley rolled over slightly in his sleep.
"Up with you," said Harry, quite irritated with him. Nowadays, it wasn't often that Harry would become vexed with his cousin, but waking him up in the morning to run was one of the worst times of the day. Harry shoved him slightly and sighed. This was not working. After a few more vain attempts at waking Dudley he gave up and casted a silencing charm around the room so his Aunt and Uncle wouldn't hear him. Harry proceeded to go to Dudley's closet, grinning like a fool, and pulled out from a box some old crash symbols that Dudley had used when he had once wanted to be in the marching band. Why he had wanted to do such a thing was beyond Harry, but they did make for useful wakeup calls.
CRASH! Harry slammed the symbols together flat on and inverting one of them. He looked at it despondently as Dudley practically jumped out of his bed. "Wha?" he asked, clearly disoriented.
"Time to get up and go running," said Harry smiling and knowing well what would happen when his cousin went to go get dressed. Ginny had described Fred and George pulling this trick on Ron when they were younger.
As soon as Dudley got out of bed Harry set down the symbols and left Dudley's of his room, pretending to be going downstairs to stretch as he always did. However, he waited outside the door to listen to the squeal that would soon come. After a few minutes Harry tired to figure out why he was not hearing anything. Surely the charms had worked? Suddenly, it hit Harry. The silencing charm on the room was still in place.
"Finite Incantium!" said Harry sharply as he flicked his wand slightly at the door. He could suddenly hear through the slightly open door a whole lot of grunting.
"Something wrong Dudley?" asked Harry angelically.
"My shorts don't fit," he said, sounding disgruntled.
Harry suddenly chuckled as he stepped into Dudley's room twirling his wand. "Been putting on the weight?" Asked Harry, sounding very amused.
Dudley looked down at his shorts and then at Harry who was twirling his wand innocently. "You!" He accused suddenly.
"Would I do a thing like that?" Harry's voice was laced with sarcasm.
Dudley no longer looked upset; he was merely curious. "I thought that you weren't allowed to use magic outside of," he paused, not sure of the name of the school that Harry went to.
"Hogwarts?" answered Harry.
"Yeah, Hogwarts."
"I wasn't. That is, until I got this." Harry held up the letter that he had received just that morning. He read it aloud, "Due to recent events the Ministry of Magic has unanimously decided that the ban on underage magic will be lifted effective immediately."
"What recent events?" queried Dudley.
Harry suddenly frowned, wondering why he had not thought of that. In the rush of the idea that he would be able to show Dudley some of the magic that he had learned and get to play tricks on him. Suddenly Harry felt that he wanted another letter from Ginny badly. Perhaps she would have news from the wizarding world. It must be bad if the ministry decided to lift the ban…
***
"So, the losers return?" Dave looked quite bored, possibly of his own unoriginal greeting. It was only every day that he greeted Harry and Dudley like that.
Harry didn't respond as he walked over to his place and started to stretch. It wasn't long, however, before he felt a slight sting on his shoulder. Harry turned around to see no one in particular looking at him or paying any special attention to him. Slowly and suspiciously he turned back and began to stretch. Another sting and he was sure of it. Dave was throwing rocks at him.
Harry stood up, leaving Dudley to stretch and walked over to where Dave and his friends were standing, not quite sure of what to say. "I think you dropped this." Harry held up a small pebble.
"Why as a matter of fact I did!" exclaimed Dave. "Are you returning it to me?"
Harry smiled nicely and handed Dave the pebble. The overgrown boy smiled at Harry his far to long hair swirling in the slight breeze. When Harry turned to leave the pebble hit him in the back again. Harry smiled.
"Our group challenges yours to a duel." he said to Dave in a manner that would be derisive if Dave turned him down. It was part of the rules of the system they were using to train. Along the way you could challenge the other groups. They didn't have to accept of course, but it would be seen as admitting that the recessive group was weaker.
Now it was Dave's turn to smile. "You're on."
***
Later that day, forms all submitted, Dave and Harry lined up facing each other their kimonos blowing in the slight breeze that shot through the air. They were standing in the center of a small circle painted on the grass, about five feet from each other standing at attention. Dudley and Dave's group member both stood on the outside of the circle on their respective sides. The entire class was sitting in bleacher style seats off to the side.
"Something just occurred to me," started Dave.
"A sense of decency?" harry asked.
Dave smirked. "You know, you aren't so bad after all. I mean, I'm going to thrash you anyway, but you and your partner there, Dubley,"
"Dudley," harry interjected.
"Whatever, but the two of you," he paused looking over at the class. They were messing around as they waited for the duel to start, "and you especially, well, I am impressed. When you got here you were so weak and small. I've watched you though. There is something about you. You press yourself harder than I press myself. Maybe I misjudged the two of you."
Harry smirked for a moment and then Dave's arms came up beside him in a unmistakable Bear Stance. He closed his fists and turned his body to an angle now looking every inch a Kung Fu warrior of a month. "Not," he said now smiling, "that you even have a chance to defeat me."
Harry shifted into the Tiger Stance. "You know Dave, you might not be so bad after all yourself."
Rose walked in between the two of them holding her hand out in front of them. "Well boys, you know the rules. Let me reiterate them anyway. There is no hitting in the groin, no pulling of the hair etc. You have been taught Kung Fu here and anyone who doesn't use it isn't dueling correctly. I know that in the real world you will be able to pull hair or kick in the more sensitive areas, but as long as you are here you will need to use what you have learned to get better. If you tag in your team member then you will be out for the rest of the duel. If you are knocked out your team member will be automatically tagged in. If you leave the circle then your team member will be tagged in. If your team member is defeated, you have lost. Any questions?"
Harry was using his focusing drills and filtering out the crowd. There was no sunset, no crowd. The grass on his feet didn't exist and Rose who stood in between him and his opponent was the only thing that mattered. "Nope," said Dave to Rose as she looked in disgust at the long, unkempt hair that flowed down his back.
"Alright then," she said finally, the class focusing in on the two members that would soon be engaged in combat. "Begin!"
Harry dove immediately to the side as Dave performed a practiced series of punches, and slid back around to hit Dave in the side. Dave put his hands up in a defensive variation of the Bear Stance and stepped right into the few punches that Harry was trying to throw at his face. Dave caught one of Harry's hands and started to twist it as he pulled Harry right into his fist ready to meet Harry's stomach. With slipping motion Harry twisted from Dave's grasp and spun rather quickly around sticking his foot out at the last second taking Dave's feet from under him. As Dave started to fall he put out a hand and grabbed at Harry catching his neck to pull him down also.
They both landed on the ground, Harry face first, Dave face up, directly beside each other. In unison they jumped up and charged at each other fists flying in what looked almost like a practiced dance. They were both in the focused trance so they could tell exactly where the other's fists would land and they moved appropriately. After about 5 seconds of furious and fast attacking Harry was starting to be backed up. He was faster but not as strong or big. All Dave had to do was to take a step forward and Harry would have to back up. He just couldn't take as many hits as the bigger boy could.
Neither of them talked, they just fought, Harry rather quickly developing a black eye and Dave getting a quite purple bruise on his chest. Harry noted that he was beginning to be backed up to the edge of the circle. If he backed out then it would just be Dudley against both Dave and his team member. However, whenever Harry hit Dave it was like hitting a wall. He didn't flinch or move around and he was easily taller and heavier than Harry. It seemed that all the other boy had to do was to walk forward. He didn't make any sudden movements, save kicking and punching, so he couldn't be thrown off balance to try to toss him from the circle… Harry was at a loss.
Suddenly, Harry had an idea. He twisted around suddenly and went as fast as he could around Dave, duck under the punches that would have sent him from the ring. He got to the back of Dave and kicked, hard. For a second Dave almost lost his balance, and it was enough for Harry. He pulled his arm way back and tightened his hand into a karate chop form. His hand came flying right towards the back of Dave's head. CRACK!
Dave overbalanced and fell out of the ring. For a moment, Harry was stunned. I won? He thought in a stupor. However, Harry would later regret the stupor. He was kicked from behind by Dave's team member and sent flying from the ring landing face first on the ground. I did it! Thought Harry.
He got up and brushed himself off, ignoring the bruises caused by the fight. As far as he could tell there was no permanent damage. Harry walked over to Dave and held out a hand to help him up. For a moment Dave just stared at Harry as if he had never really seen him before, then he held out his hand and let Harry help him up. Harry and Dave looked at each other, both bleeding slightly and bruised. Harry slowly nodded and then stood off to his side of the circle to cheer Dudley on. Perhaps they wouldn't have to be enemies the entire time that they were at the class…
***
Dudley was eventually thrown from the ring. He didn't come near as good as the other member of Dave's group. When Harry and Dudley had left after the fight they had been surrounded by the group, all wanting to know how Harry had become so strong. He had defeated Dave without help, and that was something that none of the class could boast of.
Even Dudley kept looking at Harry as if he had never really seen him before. Harry was very glad when he got home and could get up to his room to escape the looks that Dudley was giving him. When he did get up to his room he saw a letter on his bed that read, "Snuffles" on the front of it. Harry smiled and picked it up to open it
Dear Harry,
I assume by now you have gotten the letter from Hogwarts. However, if the Hogwarts owl was caught up and is now late then I need to tell you that the ban on underage magic has been lifted. This, however, is not as you might think, a cause for celebration. Two days ago you-know-who entered Azkaban and freed the Dementors. He gloated over the fact that he had returned and the ministry could do nothing about it. He also killed four Aurors. The ministry is now in desperation. So far Muggle killings aren't happening, but every criminal in Azkaban has been released and Voldemort is just getting more people each day.
Part of the reason that the ban was lifted was so students that are in Hogwarts could study while they are on their breaks. The ministry officially said that they encourage all students to dive into work on defensive spells. Really, it won't be enough unless you are really good. However, I do agree with them and I think that you should get to Diagon Alley to pick up some books on offensive and defensive charms. When school starts they will have a mandatory dueling class and a voluntary dueling club. Preparing for an attack on Hogwarts or on yourself is important, Harry.
The books that I think you will need are 4,000 Defensive Charms by Miller Furm and Hexes, Curses, and Charms, Befuddle Your Enemies by Grace Less. Both books will be amazingly expensive, but they can hardly even be considered books. They are like full classes in the charm, hex, or curse of your choice. You might also want to pick up Dueling: How to Hit and not Get Hit Back by I. Loss Tmiarm. It isn't as comprehensive as the other books but will still give you an idea of what you are doing. I also daresay that you would like to be the captain of the dueling club. Remember to study hard. Your life could depend on what you learn in some of these books.
I hope that you are doing all right and that you can get through this summer without putting too much guilt on yourself. Harry, if you need anyone to talk to… I know what it is like. Owl me anytime. I hope that we will be able to capture Wormtail soon; I can't wait to come and be your real godfather.
Love,
Snuffles
Harry mused over the letter for a moment. It was so much to take in. Voldemort had released everyone from Azkaban and taken the Dementors? Four Aurors dead? But what were you expecting, Harry thought wryly to himself, a nice little "Please get out of my way while I free all of the Dark Wizards in here."
Harry sighed and then looked over the rest of the letter for a second time. A dueling club at Hogwarts would be good; assuming that it managed to be better than the last. How am I to get to Diagon Alley? Harry mused for a moment over the possibility that the Dursleys would drive him into London where he could get to the Leaky Cauldron. Somehow, the concept just didn't make it.
Maybe the Weasleys? Harry pulled out some parchment and a quill jotting a note to Ron asking about the possibility of them taking him to Diagon Alley to get some books to study on. Luckily, Hedwig had just recently come back from the latest letter to Ginny. Harry leaned over his desk and tied the letter to Hedwig's leg saying, "Bring this to Ron, okay?"
Hedwig hooted and flew out the open window.
***
The fireplace blew apart sending chunks of wood and metal flying; Harry, Dudley, Uncle Vernon, and Aunt Petunia all dived down as Ron and Mr. Weasley stepped from the alcove that used to be a fireplace.
"Hey Harry!" said Ron as he grinned and brushed the soot off of himself.
Harry was nearly beside himself. He would get to spend time with Ron in Diagon Alley about a month earlier. "Hi, Ron."
"Great to see you Harry," said Mr. Weasley as he stepped forward to shake hands with Harry. Both Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia jumped backward a little as he approached. Dudley stood slightly off to the side looking at Harry's friends nervously. He still obviously had not gotten over the huge tongue that he had gotten the last time the Weasleys came over. Tentatively, he stepped forward as Harry greeted the Weasleys.
"Uh, erm… Hi." he said nervously. Dudley looked ready to dive out of the way if a wand was suddenly displayed.
"This," started Harry as he guided Dudley forward, "is Dudley, my cousin. Dudley, this is my friend Ron and his dad Arthur Weasley."
Mr. Weasley smiled and stepped forward shaking Dudley's hand. Ron seemed a little surprised. In the back of the room both Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia were looking scandalized. Mr. Weasley stepped forward and turned to Dudley's parents. "I'll have Harry back by about nine. Is that all right?" he asked.
Both Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon looked at him blankly, not answering. Several beats passed and Mr. Weasley said, "We'll take care of dinner for Harry. They have some great places in Diagon Alley!" When they were still silent Mr. Weasley turned to Harry, "Do they talk?"
Harry grinned, "You just blew apart their gas fireplace and are talking about magical places. That's a little beyond my relatives."
Mr. Weasley frowned and said, "Sorry about that. I'll fix it once Harry and Ron get back to the house." he turned to Harry and said, "Have you had lunch yet?"
"Nope, I figured that I would eat with you guys." Harry responded.
"Great! Molly prepared a big lunch in case you hadn't eaten. So…" he paused seemingly thrown off by the silence of Harry's Aunt and Uncle. "Uh, thank you for letting us borrow Harry."
Aunt Petunia nodded slightly as Mr. Weasley walked over to the fire and lit it with magic throwing some green powder over the fire. Harry and Ron walked to the fire and separately went through the fire saying "The Burrow!"
***
When Harry walked in he was greeted by a flurry of energy and action. Mrs. Weasley pulled him into a huge hug while Fred and George tried to get Harry's attention by showing off all of the little gadgets they had made from the prize money that Harry had given them. When Harry finally managed to get detached from the two twins Charlie, Bill, and Percy greeted him. The only one of them that wasn't down to see him was Ginny. Harry felt vaguely disappointed that he didn't see her there.
The group marched Harry into the kitchen, each trying to get him involved in their own conversation. Percy was trying to explain the duties of a new Prefect, just in case Harry was made one. Charlie was trying to again discuss how Harry had gotten around the Hungarian Horntail and what Harry was going to do after Hogwarts. Charlie was mentioning that he could see Harry getting into Quidditch after school. Fred and George were making their attempt at monopolizing Harry by showing some of their trinkets and telling Harry stories of how they had been used.
"And this was great with Percy!" said Fred holding up a ball that flashed bright colors along the walls.
"As long as I get immunity." Harry managed to get in with all of the flurry of conversation around him.
"You might…"
They got into the kitchen and settled in, Ron finally taking his usual place next to Harry as they all attempted to settle into such a small table.
"We might need to go outside and move some of the tables together again," remarked Mrs. Weasley, looking at all of the filled chairs and all of the people still standing. There was a murmur of agreement and they all got up to go out side.
When they had finally set up the tables outside and moved all of the food they finally sat down to eat.
"This is excellent!" Harry commented, trying some of the chicken that Mrs. Weasley had cooked for them all.
"Thanks Harry, dear." She responded.
"Harry, I can't get over it," started Ron, "what's different about you? Something changed; I can tell. It isn't your hair; you haven't gotten that much taller… What is it?"
Harry looked thoughtful. "I dunno. I didn't change anything. Maybe it's just your imagination."
Ron frowned, "Hmm… Maybe it is nothing…"
Harry finished lunch, still looking around for Ginny, hoping to catch a glance of her. Harry frowned for a moment thinking to himself. Why do I care about seeing her? I suppose that she did give me that amazing dream catcher, and she has been a great pen pal… Harry shrugged and turned over to Ron who was on his fifth helping of mashed potatoes.
"Hey Ron, where is Ginny?"
Ron looked up at him, looking slightly suspicious, "Why?"
Harry was a little surprised at Ron's reaction. He hesitated for a second and then said, "Well we have been writing back and forth most of the summer so far, and I was hoping to see her."
Ron's look darkened slightly but his response held little malice, "She is upstairs sleeping. She has had a little bit of trouble sleeping lately."
Harry was vaguely disappointed. "Oh."
There was a slightly awkward silence for a moment while Ron looked over at Harry questioningly, wondering weather to voice his concern about Ginny's still growing affection for Harry. Finally, Ron turned back to his plate and continued eating. He wasn't very hungry now.
***
Harry walked down the streets of Diagon Alley with Ron and Mr. Weasley, enjoying the sights of being back in the wizarding world. He was very glad to be out of Kung Fu for the day, as it was beginning to become rather awkward. Since the duel with Dave, Harry had been accepted as an all-around okay guy. Rather than finding himself at home with the rest of them he found that he felt out of place with the other boys. Often times he found himself wishing that it were back to just Dudley and he.
"Hey look!" said Ron, snapping Harry out of his line of thought. Ron was pointing at Quality Quidditch Supplies. Standing in the window was a picture of a new model of broom. It read, "The Thunderclap. Coming next year to Quality Quidditch Supplies, only."
"That's over blowing it," said Mr. Weasley, chuckling. "The Firebolt already goes so fast that you can nearly not see it. Why would you want anything faster?"
Harry smiled. "Dunno. I think that I can be happy with what I have." Harry's actions, however, did not match his words as he began to walk forward and into Quality Quidditch Supplies.
"I thought that you two wanted to go to Diagon Alley to get books!?" called Mr. Weasley to Ron and Harry as they entered the shop. When he got no response he sighed and followed them in.
Harry, Ron, and Mr. Weasley spent the nest two hours going around shops that had nothing to do with getting books for studying. Harry decided that he definitely wanted Ron to come over to the Dursleys some time. He hadn't had so much fun all summer. I may not be able to stay with him for very long, but I am sure glad that I got this. Harry thought to himself.
"Shoot." said Mr. Weasley as he looked down at his watch. "I'm needed at work for a few minutes." He turned his watch so they could see it. It said, "GET TO WORK" on it in large bold letters. Harry stared at the odd watch for a moment while Ron said, "I think we can survive without you for a little while."
Harry nodded. Mr. Weasley looked a Ron and Harry for a moment, surveying their faces for any trace of mischievous intent. "Okay, but you two had better get those books. Dumbledore never really approved this trip yet and I want to get Harry back to his Aunt and Uncle as soon as possible."
Harry sighed, wishing that he could stay with the Weasleys for the rest of the summer. Not that he minded Dudley's company, but that he wanted to spend time with Ron and get away from Kung Fu camp. I hope it cost them a fortune! Harry thought to himself crossly.
Mr. Weasley gave the boys one last look and apperated away. "Well," said Harry, "let's go check out the dueling books. Maybe we can practice together later in the summer."
Ron nodded and they walked forward to enter the store, but stopped short when they saw a familiar and unwelcome figure step out of Flourish and Blotts.
Malfoy, flanked by Crabbe and Goyle.
Malfoy looked momentarily surprised and stopped in his tracks. "Oh great." he drawled, sounding annoyed, "Of course, the one day we visit Diagon Alley Potter and Weasley have to be here."
For a moment the two groups stood silent. Then Malfoy said, "You know, I would really love to stay here and have the pleasure of your company, but it only gives me displeasure."
Malfoy smirked and started to walk away until suddenly he turned back to Harry and Ron. "Oh yes, I almost forgot to tell you. I am going to crush you at the Dueling Club."
Harry crossed his arms the muscles playing under his skin giving him a much different look then Malfoy was used to. Malfoy now looked almost worried. "I wouldn't bet on it if I were you."
"Don't know the meaning of the word fear do you? Well I suppose that you also don't know the meaning of most words too." Malfoy hid under his insults.
"I would have liked to insult you, but with your intelligence you wouldn't be offended." said Harry as he stood forward. Ron frowned at Harry slightly. Harry looked almost like he was challenging Malfoy to a fight. Malfoy stepped back and Crabbe and Goyle stepped in as if they were defending him from Harry.
"Scared of me Malfoy? Finally figured out that brains aren't everything. In fact, in your case they're nothing!" Harry was enjoying himself. If nothing else, his Kung Fu training would help him to deal with Crabbe and Goyle if he ever came to a hand-to-hand fight. The best part, however, was the scared look on Malfoy's face. Without a word he turned and fled, almost running.
"That's it!" exclaimed Ron when Harry turned grinning back toward the bookstore.
"What?"
"What is different about you. You are stronger. You've got more muscle!" Ron smiled over at Harry, "Have you been going to a gym over summer?" They walked into the store as they talked.
"Remember when I owled you about the Kung Fu that I was going to have to go to? Well, I've been taking that for the last month or so." Harry went on to describe the entire camp as they went through the bookshelves looking for ones on dueling.
When Harry finished Ron asked, "What books did Siri–err I mean Snuffles tell you to get?"
"4,000 Defensive Charms by Miller Furm," said Harry, reading from the letter Sirius had sent him, "and Hexes, Curses, and Charms, Befuddle Your Enemies by Grace Less."
"Maybe we should ask someone at the desk."
They walked up to the front desk and asked about the two books. The clerk immediately looked interested. "So, you fine young gentlemen are interested in some of the best books on Dueling? Well, I must say, you have made excellent choices." The clerk got up and walked Harry and Ron over to a long bookshelf that had thousands of books on it all shining new. Before Harry knew what had happened to him he had two massive tomes in his arms and he was being walked back to the front desk.
"Any other books that I could help you gather?" asked the overactive worker.
Harry managed to barely fumble out his note, almost dropping the huge books in the process. "Uh, also Dueling: How to Hit and not Get Hit Back by I. Loss Tmiarm."
"Another excellent choice! Not quite in the same league as the other two, but still classes up there." The clerk dove off into the shop, not even bothering to lead Harry or Ron with him this time. When he returned Ron was trying very hard not to laugh. Harry now had books piled so high on his arms that he couldn't see over them.
"That will be 356 galleons." Now Harry did drop the books.
"356 galleons?!" Harry exclaimed incredulously.
Now the clerk looked annoyed. "You did know that each of the two first books cost 150 galleons correct? We at Flourish and Blotts understand that a person can likely not carry 356 galleons so we have a special pay method. All you have to do is sign here and we will send carts down to Gringott's for you."
He pulled out a piece of paper with fine print all over it and Harry's eyes went very wide. Another voice came from behind Harry, "Let me see that Harry." It was Mr. Weasley. The clerk suddenly looked very shifty. Mr. Weasley read the paper and smirked tossing it back to the clerk.
"Okay, you can stop trying to cheat the boys now." he, however, seemed amused.
"That will be 120 galleons." Harry reached down and picked up the books from the floor. "Thanks," he said.
"Not a problem."
***
"What is so special about these books anyway?" Harry asked as he awkwardly walked down the street, trying to balance the far too large books in his arms.
"Yea," added Ron, "There has to be more than 4,000 pages in that 4,000 Defensive Charms book!"
"I think that I have heard about those two. Most of the book is filled with runes that cause a classroom like setting to appear. The book can't actually be understood just by reading it, I think." said Mr. Weasley.
"What do you mean by 'cause a classroom like setting to appear'?" asked Ron curiously.
"I think that it uses some illusion spells to make the person think they are in a classroom with a teacher to instruct them. I heard Jerry, a friend of mine at work, talking about them."
"Sounds like you are going to have to let me borrow those when you are finished, Harry." said Ron looking over at the two "books".
"Why is this third one so good?" asked Harry nodding his head towards the book on the top of the stack.
Mr. Weasley tapped his wand on the bricks that lead to the Leaky Cauldron as he responded, "Dueling: How to Hit and Not Get Hit Back is one of the most famous books on dueling known. All the professional duelers in the league have practically memorized it."
"There is a dueling league?" asked Harry, wondering when the fountain of things he didn't know about the wizarding world would run dry.
"Of course," said Ron. "The two most watched professional sports are Quidditch and Dueling. Only Dueling has fallen out of style lately."
"It was actually much more known than Quidditch for a time," explained Mr. Weasley, "Then Voldemort came and killed some of the top duelers. No one wanted to join for fear of being killed. It just hasn't picked up since then."
Harry, Ron, and Mr. Weasley all walked through the entryway into the Leaky Cauldron and headed over to the fire. "Well, it was nice seeing you Harry," said Mr. Weasley as he pulled some Floo Powder from next to the fireplace.
"Oh yea, I almost forgot." started Harry, "I wanted to know if Ron might be able to come over to the Dursleys some time. Just because I can't go around visiting people doesn't mean that he can't."
"Hmm, that sounds alright to me, but wouldn't your aunt and uncle have a problem with that? They seem to have a problem with magi from what I have seen."
"I'll find some way to convince them." responded Harry, pleased that he might be able to have Ron come over.
"Sounds great to me!" said Ron, "Well… goodbye Harry. Get to work on convincing the Dursleys quick!"
"I will. Bye." Harry turned to the now green flames and a thought suddenly occurred to him. "What do I do when I reach the other end? Won't the fireplace still be there?"
Mr. Weasley looked momentarily surprised and then said, "You're right. I'll follow you through and get you through the fireplace."
"Thanks. The Dursleys!" said Harry as he stepped confidently into the fire.
***
"What did you get?" asked Dudley as Harry carried his books up to his room.
"A couple of books on defensive and offensive dueling spells, plus a book on how to duel." Harry responded, slamming the overly large books down on his bed. Dudley leaned over Harry excitedly as Harry opened the book to see complex rune patterns covering it.
"Hey, those are the runes that you have been studying from the other book. Do you know what they say?"
"No clue. I've only been studying basic runes. This stuff is really complex."
"What good is the book then!?" asked Dudley, completely incredulous.
"I think that there should be some instructions in the front," muttered Harry to himself as he flipped to the first page. There was a small black dot in the center with minute writing about it. It said "Place wand tip here." Harry pointed it out to Dudley.
"You see, the runes cause magic to happen. Basically, all I have to do is touch my wand to the paper and start learning." he explained. Dudley nodded and reached over to the desk where Harry had put down his wand. He handed it over to Harry. "Here you go."
"Thanks." Harry leaned over the book and placed the tip of his wand onto the small black dot. For a moment nothing happened. He stood, leaning over his bed staring at the page. Just when Harry was about to look for more instructions because it wasn't working he felt a pull at the tip of his wand. It was being pulled into the paper.
"Wha!?" exclaimed Harry as his entire arm slid into the paper. Suddenly, Harry saw the entire room slide out of view as he fell into the page on his book.
***
Cameron bent over some of his homework, trying to work out long division. "Hey dad, what is fourteen divided by seven?"
"Two," said his father flipping some eggs over on the griddle. Slowly, Cameron worked through his homework. When he finished he got up saying, "I'm done. Can I eat now?"
"Put your homework in your backpack first." he responded, smiling. Cameron walked down the hallway and opened the closet to put his homework in his backpack. He never saw the man come from behind him, and never heard the muttered words "Avada Kedavra". He was dead before he hit the floor.
***
"Arthur," called Mrs. Weasley from the hall, "You can't go now, there have to be others who can handle it!"
"Molly, this is the first Muggle killing. I need to get out there to represent the ministry."
"Surely there are others. The area could still be dangerous. Leave it up to the Aurors." she pleaded.
"Molly, I'll be fine. I need to go now, or I'll be late." he said.
"I thought that you were just called into work earlier," said Ron, who was standing down the hallway. "Why do you have to go back so soon?"
Mr. Weasley now looked annoyed. "I need to get to work. Molly, could you please explain it to the kids?"
She also looked vexed, but must have figured that it would be more prudent to let it go rather than argue in front of Ron and whoever else might show up. "Sure. Go ahead. Ron, could you get Ginny and your brothers together. The first Muggle killings have started. They will want to know."
White faced, Ron stumbled down the hall to Ginny's door.
***
Harry looked around him to see a small, well-lit classroom that had only one desk that sat directly in the center of it. The walls were completely bare and had a sort of unnatural straightness to them. It was as if someone had taken some very powerful sandpaper and sanded the bricks perfectly flat. At the front of the room there was a chalkboard that had terms written on it in neat handwriting. In fact, it was so neat that it was perfect. It looked like it had been written out on Dudley's computer because the letters were so perfect.
Harry shrugged and sat down at the desk, scooting the chair into a comfortable position. As if his sitting had triggered a lesson to start, a short balding man walked into the room. But there is no door, thought Harry. Apparently, when he was inside this whatever world normal rules do not apply.
"Hello, I will be your teacher, Mr. Furm. What is your name?" his speech did have inflections in it, but it was so perfectly regulated that it sounded like it was a voice out of the games at the arcade.
"Uh," started Harry, completely unnerved by this new experience, "I'm Harry Potter."
"Hello, Harry Potter. Is there a particular charm that you wanted to learn or would you like to have me assess your skills to understand what would be the best charm for you to learn." The odd man also talked incredibly fast, as if there was nothing to slow him down. It took Harry a moment to understand what he had said.
"Uh, you can go ahead and assess my skills." Several things happened at once. The teacher disappeared and Harry's desk was promptly gone leaving him to fall to the floor. A wand appeared in his hand. It took Harry a moment to realize that it was his own. Suddenly, there was a booming voice filling the room.
"Attempt to not be hit by the various spells that will come towards you. Use all of your abilities to remedy any effects that they might cause. The test will continue until you have either been disarmed or until ten minutes has transpired. Do you have any questions?"
Harry could think of plenty of questions, and was about to ask where the spells would come from when the voice said, "Begin."
"Expeliarmus." the voice came from nowhere in particular, but the spell came from a small hole that had appeared in the otherwise perfect wall. A small beam of light fired out that Harry barely had time to dodge. He dove out the way to hear, "Expeliarmus" come firing from a different position on the wall. Again, Harry dodged it, this time with more ease. It was just like the dodging drills that he had had to do at Kung Fu. Slowly, Harry worked himself into a focused trance and didn't listen to the various spells that came flying from the holes. Eventually, Harry was hit from behind when five spells came out at once.
"Total time, six minutes and twenty-three seconds. Excellence completed at dodging, failure at defensive spells. Excellence completed at focus, failure at ingenuity. Total score is 46%. Work is necessary in the fast paced defensive spells." The voice again boomed from all around Harry, surprising him with its results. Harry was again shocked at a sudden jolt that sent him flying back into the desk, wand gone from his hand. Paper was suddenly before him and it filled with questions.
What are some basic defensive spells?
In what type of fight would Tactori be used?
In what type of fight would Heltori be used?
Harry looked at the questions in surprise. The questions went as far down as number 462. By the time he completed the quiz he would have a beard. "Hey, uh, Mr. Furm? I-" Harry was cut off in his sentence by the teacher appearing right in front of him.
"Yes, Harry Potter?" he asked.
"Uh, I don't know the answers to any of this." Harry said.
"Ah, yes. Likely a Hogwarts student. Am I right?" the words still came out so fast that Harry could hardly keep up with him.
"Yea, I'm about to begin my fifth year." Harry said.
"Well then," the teacher said, "I suppose that I will just have to begin your education on defensive charms from scratch. How fast do you want to learn all of this?"
"What do you mean?" asked Harry. He hadn't quite caught all that Mr. Furm had said.
"In order to decided how much time you need to spend in this book, I need to know how much you want to learn and how quickly you want to learn it." By now, the paper had disappeared from Harry's desk. He was finally starting to get used to the way that Mr. Furm talked.
"I want to know enough to hold my own against fellow fifth years by the end of a month." said Harry, hoping that he wouldn't have to spend too much time studying. He still had Kung Fu and the other Dueling book to deal with after all. I bet Hermione would have opted to be able to take on Voldemort himself by the end of the week, he thought to himself ruefully.
"Harry Potter, you can already take on the average fifth year. The report on dodging you did was excellent. Right now, you should be able to take on up to a good sixth year."
Harry raised his eyebrows in surprise. Maybe Kung Fu can actually be good for something in the wizarding world… Harry thought, I can use my concentration drills to focus on homework and use some of the dodging skills in the dueling club.
"So… Maybe I should try for something greater." Harry thought for a moment. "Is there any defensive spell that Aurors use as a basic spell? Like stuff they used against death eaters when Voldemort was back." Harry referred to Voldemort in past tense because he assumed that the book wouldn't have as recent information as he wizarding world had.
"Ah, so you are thinking about becoming an Auror? Well, there are a few, but they are very difficult. You would have to learn a lot of theory. About how long do you have that you could spend studying here each day?"
Harry did a quick mental calculation. "Maybe about an hour a day."
"At that rate you will be working on theory for about three months before you will even get to learning the spells. Is that alright?"
That wouldn't work. The dueling club would have already begun before Harry would learn the spells. "What if I were here two and a half hours a day?"
"Then it would take a little more than a month and you would be through the theory."
I would have to skip doing the offensive charms, but I could do it I suppose… "Sure, I'll be back tomorrow. But, uh…" Harry paused for a moment, "how do I get out of here?
"Just pull your wand off of the black dot." explained Mr. Furm.
"How?"
"Just lift your arm." Confused, Harry lifted his arm to see his room come swirling into view.
***
Harry would have checked, by opening the door, to see if Dudley was asleep, but the snores that came crashing down the hall from his room were probably audible from the Americas. The boy who lived crept out into the hall trying to be as silent as possible, his wand held professionally in his grasp. A slight smirk played across his features as he opened the door do Dudley's room a crack. The snores increased in volume tenfold as Harry opened the door enough to allow the sound a clear path to him. He slowly slunk into the room, trying not to wake his cousin. However, even if Harry had been trying to wake him he would have had quite the time of doing it.
Harry crept over to the drawers of Dudley's clothes, pulling them out to display the contents long enough for Harry to cast a charm from his wand onto his cousin's garments. After about fifteen minutes of diligent work Harry had managed to charm all of Dudley's clothes. Harry tromped loudly over to him and said quite loudly, "Alright, you lazy git! Git- I mean, get up!"
Dudley rolled over slightly in his sleep.
"Up with you," said Harry, quite irritated with him. Nowadays, it wasn't often that Harry would become vexed with his cousin, but waking him up in the morning to run was one of the worst times of the day. Harry shoved him slightly and sighed. This was not working. After a few more vain attempts at waking Dudley he gave up and casted a silencing charm around the room so his Aunt and Uncle wouldn't hear him. Harry proceeded to go to Dudley's closet, grinning like a fool, and pulled out from a box some old crash symbols that Dudley had used when he had once wanted to be in the marching band. Why he had wanted to do such a thing was beyond Harry, but they did make for useful wakeup calls.
CRASH! Harry slammed the symbols together flat on and inverting one of them. He looked at it despondently as Dudley practically jumped out of his bed. "Wha?" he asked, clearly disoriented.
"Time to get up and go running," said Harry smiling and knowing well what would happen when his cousin went to go get dressed. Ginny had described Fred and George pulling this trick on Ron when they were younger.
As soon as Dudley got out of bed Harry set down the symbols and left Dudley's of his room, pretending to be going downstairs to stretch as he always did. However, he waited outside the door to listen to the squeal that would soon come. After a few minutes Harry tired to figure out why he was not hearing anything. Surely the charms had worked? Suddenly, it hit Harry. The silencing charm on the room was still in place.
"Finite Incantium!" said Harry sharply as he flicked his wand slightly at the door. He could suddenly hear through the slightly open door a whole lot of grunting.
"Something wrong Dudley?" asked Harry angelically.
"My shorts don't fit," he said, sounding disgruntled.
Harry suddenly chuckled as he stepped into Dudley's room twirling his wand. "Been putting on the weight?" Asked Harry, sounding very amused.
Dudley looked down at his shorts and then at Harry who was twirling his wand innocently. "You!" He accused suddenly.
"Would I do a thing like that?" Harry's voice was laced with sarcasm.
Dudley no longer looked upset; he was merely curious. "I thought that you weren't allowed to use magic outside of," he paused, not sure of the name of the school that Harry went to.
"Hogwarts?" answered Harry.
"Yeah, Hogwarts."
"I wasn't. That is, until I got this." Harry held up the letter that he had received just that morning. He read it aloud, "Due to recent events the Ministry of Magic has unanimously decided that the ban on underage magic will be lifted effective immediately."
"What recent events?" queried Dudley.
Harry suddenly frowned, wondering why he had not thought of that. In the rush of the idea that he would be able to show Dudley some of the magic that he had learned and get to play tricks on him. Suddenly Harry felt that he wanted another letter from Ginny badly. Perhaps she would have news from the wizarding world. It must be bad if the ministry decided to lift the ban…
***
"So, the losers return?" Dave looked quite bored, possibly of his own unoriginal greeting. It was only every day that he greeted Harry and Dudley like that.
Harry didn't respond as he walked over to his place and started to stretch. It wasn't long, however, before he felt a slight sting on his shoulder. Harry turned around to see no one in particular looking at him or paying any special attention to him. Slowly and suspiciously he turned back and began to stretch. Another sting and he was sure of it. Dave was throwing rocks at him.
Harry stood up, leaving Dudley to stretch and walked over to where Dave and his friends were standing, not quite sure of what to say. "I think you dropped this." Harry held up a small pebble.
"Why as a matter of fact I did!" exclaimed Dave. "Are you returning it to me?"
Harry smiled nicely and handed Dave the pebble. The overgrown boy smiled at Harry his far to long hair swirling in the slight breeze. When Harry turned to leave the pebble hit him in the back again. Harry smiled.
"Our group challenges yours to a duel." he said to Dave in a manner that would be derisive if Dave turned him down. It was part of the rules of the system they were using to train. Along the way you could challenge the other groups. They didn't have to accept of course, but it would be seen as admitting that the recessive group was weaker.
Now it was Dave's turn to smile. "You're on."
***
Later that day, forms all submitted, Dave and Harry lined up facing each other their kimonos blowing in the slight breeze that shot through the air. They were standing in the center of a small circle painted on the grass, about five feet from each other standing at attention. Dudley and Dave's group member both stood on the outside of the circle on their respective sides. The entire class was sitting in bleacher style seats off to the side.
"Something just occurred to me," started Dave.
"A sense of decency?" harry asked.
Dave smirked. "You know, you aren't so bad after all. I mean, I'm going to thrash you anyway, but you and your partner there, Dubley,"
"Dudley," harry interjected.
"Whatever, but the two of you," he paused looking over at the class. They were messing around as they waited for the duel to start, "and you especially, well, I am impressed. When you got here you were so weak and small. I've watched you though. There is something about you. You press yourself harder than I press myself. Maybe I misjudged the two of you."
Harry smirked for a moment and then Dave's arms came up beside him in a unmistakable Bear Stance. He closed his fists and turned his body to an angle now looking every inch a Kung Fu warrior of a month. "Not," he said now smiling, "that you even have a chance to defeat me."
Harry shifted into the Tiger Stance. "You know Dave, you might not be so bad after all yourself."
Rose walked in between the two of them holding her hand out in front of them. "Well boys, you know the rules. Let me reiterate them anyway. There is no hitting in the groin, no pulling of the hair etc. You have been taught Kung Fu here and anyone who doesn't use it isn't dueling correctly. I know that in the real world you will be able to pull hair or kick in the more sensitive areas, but as long as you are here you will need to use what you have learned to get better. If you tag in your team member then you will be out for the rest of the duel. If you are knocked out your team member will be automatically tagged in. If you leave the circle then your team member will be tagged in. If your team member is defeated, you have lost. Any questions?"
Harry was using his focusing drills and filtering out the crowd. There was no sunset, no crowd. The grass on his feet didn't exist and Rose who stood in between him and his opponent was the only thing that mattered. "Nope," said Dave to Rose as she looked in disgust at the long, unkempt hair that flowed down his back.
"Alright then," she said finally, the class focusing in on the two members that would soon be engaged in combat. "Begin!"
Harry dove immediately to the side as Dave performed a practiced series of punches, and slid back around to hit Dave in the side. Dave put his hands up in a defensive variation of the Bear Stance and stepped right into the few punches that Harry was trying to throw at his face. Dave caught one of Harry's hands and started to twist it as he pulled Harry right into his fist ready to meet Harry's stomach. With slipping motion Harry twisted from Dave's grasp and spun rather quickly around sticking his foot out at the last second taking Dave's feet from under him. As Dave started to fall he put out a hand and grabbed at Harry catching his neck to pull him down also.
They both landed on the ground, Harry face first, Dave face up, directly beside each other. In unison they jumped up and charged at each other fists flying in what looked almost like a practiced dance. They were both in the focused trance so they could tell exactly where the other's fists would land and they moved appropriately. After about 5 seconds of furious and fast attacking Harry was starting to be backed up. He was faster but not as strong or big. All Dave had to do was to take a step forward and Harry would have to back up. He just couldn't take as many hits as the bigger boy could.
Neither of them talked, they just fought, Harry rather quickly developing a black eye and Dave getting a quite purple bruise on his chest. Harry noted that he was beginning to be backed up to the edge of the circle. If he backed out then it would just be Dudley against both Dave and his team member. However, whenever Harry hit Dave it was like hitting a wall. He didn't flinch or move around and he was easily taller and heavier than Harry. It seemed that all the other boy had to do was to walk forward. He didn't make any sudden movements, save kicking and punching, so he couldn't be thrown off balance to try to toss him from the circle… Harry was at a loss.
Suddenly, Harry had an idea. He twisted around suddenly and went as fast as he could around Dave, duck under the punches that would have sent him from the ring. He got to the back of Dave and kicked, hard. For a second Dave almost lost his balance, and it was enough for Harry. He pulled his arm way back and tightened his hand into a karate chop form. His hand came flying right towards the back of Dave's head. CRACK!
Dave overbalanced and fell out of the ring. For a moment, Harry was stunned. I won? He thought in a stupor. However, Harry would later regret the stupor. He was kicked from behind by Dave's team member and sent flying from the ring landing face first on the ground. I did it! Thought Harry.
He got up and brushed himself off, ignoring the bruises caused by the fight. As far as he could tell there was no permanent damage. Harry walked over to Dave and held out a hand to help him up. For a moment Dave just stared at Harry as if he had never really seen him before, then he held out his hand and let Harry help him up. Harry and Dave looked at each other, both bleeding slightly and bruised. Harry slowly nodded and then stood off to his side of the circle to cheer Dudley on. Perhaps they wouldn't have to be enemies the entire time that they were at the class…
***
Dudley was eventually thrown from the ring. He didn't come near as good as the other member of Dave's group. When Harry and Dudley had left after the fight they had been surrounded by the group, all wanting to know how Harry had become so strong. He had defeated Dave without help, and that was something that none of the class could boast of.
Even Dudley kept looking at Harry as if he had never really seen him before. Harry was very glad when he got home and could get up to his room to escape the looks that Dudley was giving him. When he did get up to his room he saw a letter on his bed that read, "Snuffles" on the front of it. Harry smiled and picked it up to open it
Dear Harry,
I assume by now you have gotten the letter from Hogwarts. However, if the Hogwarts owl was caught up and is now late then I need to tell you that the ban on underage magic has been lifted. This, however, is not as you might think, a cause for celebration. Two days ago you-know-who entered Azkaban and freed the Dementors. He gloated over the fact that he had returned and the ministry could do nothing about it. He also killed four Aurors. The ministry is now in desperation. So far Muggle killings aren't happening, but every criminal in Azkaban has been released and Voldemort is just getting more people each day.
Part of the reason that the ban was lifted was so students that are in Hogwarts could study while they are on their breaks. The ministry officially said that they encourage all students to dive into work on defensive spells. Really, it won't be enough unless you are really good. However, I do agree with them and I think that you should get to Diagon Alley to pick up some books on offensive and defensive charms. When school starts they will have a mandatory dueling class and a voluntary dueling club. Preparing for an attack on Hogwarts or on yourself is important, Harry.
The books that I think you will need are 4,000 Defensive Charms by Miller Furm and Hexes, Curses, and Charms, Befuddle Your Enemies by Grace Less. Both books will be amazingly expensive, but they can hardly even be considered books. They are like full classes in the charm, hex, or curse of your choice. You might also want to pick up Dueling: How to Hit and not Get Hit Back by I. Loss Tmiarm. It isn't as comprehensive as the other books but will still give you an idea of what you are doing. I also daresay that you would like to be the captain of the dueling club. Remember to study hard. Your life could depend on what you learn in some of these books.
I hope that you are doing all right and that you can get through this summer without putting too much guilt on yourself. Harry, if you need anyone to talk to… I know what it is like. Owl me anytime. I hope that we will be able to capture Wormtail soon; I can't wait to come and be your real godfather.
Love,
Snuffles
Harry mused over the letter for a moment. It was so much to take in. Voldemort had released everyone from Azkaban and taken the Dementors? Four Aurors dead? But what were you expecting, Harry thought wryly to himself, a nice little "Please get out of my way while I free all of the Dark Wizards in here."
Harry sighed and then looked over the rest of the letter for a second time. A dueling club at Hogwarts would be good; assuming that it managed to be better than the last. How am I to get to Diagon Alley? Harry mused for a moment over the possibility that the Dursleys would drive him into London where he could get to the Leaky Cauldron. Somehow, the concept just didn't make it.
Maybe the Weasleys? Harry pulled out some parchment and a quill jotting a note to Ron asking about the possibility of them taking him to Diagon Alley to get some books to study on. Luckily, Hedwig had just recently come back from the latest letter to Ginny. Harry leaned over his desk and tied the letter to Hedwig's leg saying, "Bring this to Ron, okay?"
Hedwig hooted and flew out the open window.
***
The fireplace blew apart sending chunks of wood and metal flying; Harry, Dudley, Uncle Vernon, and Aunt Petunia all dived down as Ron and Mr. Weasley stepped from the alcove that used to be a fireplace.
"Hey Harry!" said Ron as he grinned and brushed the soot off of himself.
Harry was nearly beside himself. He would get to spend time with Ron in Diagon Alley about a month earlier. "Hi, Ron."
"Great to see you Harry," said Mr. Weasley as he stepped forward to shake hands with Harry. Both Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia jumped backward a little as he approached. Dudley stood slightly off to the side looking at Harry's friends nervously. He still obviously had not gotten over the huge tongue that he had gotten the last time the Weasleys came over. Tentatively, he stepped forward as Harry greeted the Weasleys.
"Uh, erm… Hi." he said nervously. Dudley looked ready to dive out of the way if a wand was suddenly displayed.
"This," started Harry as he guided Dudley forward, "is Dudley, my cousin. Dudley, this is my friend Ron and his dad Arthur Weasley."
Mr. Weasley smiled and stepped forward shaking Dudley's hand. Ron seemed a little surprised. In the back of the room both Uncle Vernon and Aunt Petunia were looking scandalized. Mr. Weasley stepped forward and turned to Dudley's parents. "I'll have Harry back by about nine. Is that all right?" he asked.
Both Aunt Petunia and Uncle Vernon looked at him blankly, not answering. Several beats passed and Mr. Weasley said, "We'll take care of dinner for Harry. They have some great places in Diagon Alley!" When they were still silent Mr. Weasley turned to Harry, "Do they talk?"
Harry grinned, "You just blew apart their gas fireplace and are talking about magical places. That's a little beyond my relatives."
Mr. Weasley frowned and said, "Sorry about that. I'll fix it once Harry and Ron get back to the house." he turned to Harry and said, "Have you had lunch yet?"
"Nope, I figured that I would eat with you guys." Harry responded.
"Great! Molly prepared a big lunch in case you hadn't eaten. So…" he paused seemingly thrown off by the silence of Harry's Aunt and Uncle. "Uh, thank you for letting us borrow Harry."
Aunt Petunia nodded slightly as Mr. Weasley walked over to the fire and lit it with magic throwing some green powder over the fire. Harry and Ron walked to the fire and separately went through the fire saying "The Burrow!"
***
When Harry walked in he was greeted by a flurry of energy and action. Mrs. Weasley pulled him into a huge hug while Fred and George tried to get Harry's attention by showing off all of the little gadgets they had made from the prize money that Harry had given them. When Harry finally managed to get detached from the two twins Charlie, Bill, and Percy greeted him. The only one of them that wasn't down to see him was Ginny. Harry felt vaguely disappointed that he didn't see her there.
The group marched Harry into the kitchen, each trying to get him involved in their own conversation. Percy was trying to explain the duties of a new Prefect, just in case Harry was made one. Charlie was trying to again discuss how Harry had gotten around the Hungarian Horntail and what Harry was going to do after Hogwarts. Charlie was mentioning that he could see Harry getting into Quidditch after school. Fred and George were making their attempt at monopolizing Harry by showing some of their trinkets and telling Harry stories of how they had been used.
"And this was great with Percy!" said Fred holding up a ball that flashed bright colors along the walls.
"As long as I get immunity." Harry managed to get in with all of the flurry of conversation around him.
"You might…"
They got into the kitchen and settled in, Ron finally taking his usual place next to Harry as they all attempted to settle into such a small table.
"We might need to go outside and move some of the tables together again," remarked Mrs. Weasley, looking at all of the filled chairs and all of the people still standing. There was a murmur of agreement and they all got up to go out side.
When they had finally set up the tables outside and moved all of the food they finally sat down to eat.
"This is excellent!" Harry commented, trying some of the chicken that Mrs. Weasley had cooked for them all.
"Thanks Harry, dear." She responded.
"Harry, I can't get over it," started Ron, "what's different about you? Something changed; I can tell. It isn't your hair; you haven't gotten that much taller… What is it?"
Harry looked thoughtful. "I dunno. I didn't change anything. Maybe it's just your imagination."
Ron frowned, "Hmm… Maybe it is nothing…"
Harry finished lunch, still looking around for Ginny, hoping to catch a glance of her. Harry frowned for a moment thinking to himself. Why do I care about seeing her? I suppose that she did give me that amazing dream catcher, and she has been a great pen pal… Harry shrugged and turned over to Ron who was on his fifth helping of mashed potatoes.
"Hey Ron, where is Ginny?"
Ron looked up at him, looking slightly suspicious, "Why?"
Harry was a little surprised at Ron's reaction. He hesitated for a second and then said, "Well we have been writing back and forth most of the summer so far, and I was hoping to see her."
Ron's look darkened slightly but his response held little malice, "She is upstairs sleeping. She has had a little bit of trouble sleeping lately."
Harry was vaguely disappointed. "Oh."
There was a slightly awkward silence for a moment while Ron looked over at Harry questioningly, wondering weather to voice his concern about Ginny's still growing affection for Harry. Finally, Ron turned back to his plate and continued eating. He wasn't very hungry now.
***
Harry walked down the streets of Diagon Alley with Ron and Mr. Weasley, enjoying the sights of being back in the wizarding world. He was very glad to be out of Kung Fu for the day, as it was beginning to become rather awkward. Since the duel with Dave, Harry had been accepted as an all-around okay guy. Rather than finding himself at home with the rest of them he found that he felt out of place with the other boys. Often times he found himself wishing that it were back to just Dudley and he.
"Hey look!" said Ron, snapping Harry out of his line of thought. Ron was pointing at Quality Quidditch Supplies. Standing in the window was a picture of a new model of broom. It read, "The Thunderclap. Coming next year to Quality Quidditch Supplies, only."
"That's over blowing it," said Mr. Weasley, chuckling. "The Firebolt already goes so fast that you can nearly not see it. Why would you want anything faster?"
Harry smiled. "Dunno. I think that I can be happy with what I have." Harry's actions, however, did not match his words as he began to walk forward and into Quality Quidditch Supplies.
"I thought that you two wanted to go to Diagon Alley to get books!?" called Mr. Weasley to Ron and Harry as they entered the shop. When he got no response he sighed and followed them in.
Harry, Ron, and Mr. Weasley spent the nest two hours going around shops that had nothing to do with getting books for studying. Harry decided that he definitely wanted Ron to come over to the Dursleys some time. He hadn't had so much fun all summer. I may not be able to stay with him for very long, but I am sure glad that I got this. Harry thought to himself.
"Shoot." said Mr. Weasley as he looked down at his watch. "I'm needed at work for a few minutes." He turned his watch so they could see it. It said, "GET TO WORK" on it in large bold letters. Harry stared at the odd watch for a moment while Ron said, "I think we can survive without you for a little while."
Harry nodded. Mr. Weasley looked a Ron and Harry for a moment, surveying their faces for any trace of mischievous intent. "Okay, but you two had better get those books. Dumbledore never really approved this trip yet and I want to get Harry back to his Aunt and Uncle as soon as possible."
Harry sighed, wishing that he could stay with the Weasleys for the rest of the summer. Not that he minded Dudley's company, but that he wanted to spend time with Ron and get away from Kung Fu camp. I hope it cost them a fortune! Harry thought to himself crossly.
Mr. Weasley gave the boys one last look and apperated away. "Well," said Harry, "let's go check out the dueling books. Maybe we can practice together later in the summer."
Ron nodded and they walked forward to enter the store, but stopped short when they saw a familiar and unwelcome figure step out of Flourish and Blotts.
Malfoy, flanked by Crabbe and Goyle.
Malfoy looked momentarily surprised and stopped in his tracks. "Oh great." he drawled, sounding annoyed, "Of course, the one day we visit Diagon Alley Potter and Weasley have to be here."
For a moment the two groups stood silent. Then Malfoy said, "You know, I would really love to stay here and have the pleasure of your company, but it only gives me displeasure."
Malfoy smirked and started to walk away until suddenly he turned back to Harry and Ron. "Oh yes, I almost forgot to tell you. I am going to crush you at the Dueling Club."
Harry crossed his arms the muscles playing under his skin giving him a much different look then Malfoy was used to. Malfoy now looked almost worried. "I wouldn't bet on it if I were you."
"Don't know the meaning of the word fear do you? Well I suppose that you also don't know the meaning of most words too." Malfoy hid under his insults.
"I would have liked to insult you, but with your intelligence you wouldn't be offended." said Harry as he stood forward. Ron frowned at Harry slightly. Harry looked almost like he was challenging Malfoy to a fight. Malfoy stepped back and Crabbe and Goyle stepped in as if they were defending him from Harry.
"Scared of me Malfoy? Finally figured out that brains aren't everything. In fact, in your case they're nothing!" Harry was enjoying himself. If nothing else, his Kung Fu training would help him to deal with Crabbe and Goyle if he ever came to a hand-to-hand fight. The best part, however, was the scared look on Malfoy's face. Without a word he turned and fled, almost running.
"That's it!" exclaimed Ron when Harry turned grinning back toward the bookstore.
"What?"
"What is different about you. You are stronger. You've got more muscle!" Ron smiled over at Harry, "Have you been going to a gym over summer?" They walked into the store as they talked.
"Remember when I owled you about the Kung Fu that I was going to have to go to? Well, I've been taking that for the last month or so." Harry went on to describe the entire camp as they went through the bookshelves looking for ones on dueling.
When Harry finished Ron asked, "What books did Siri–err I mean Snuffles tell you to get?"
"4,000 Defensive Charms by Miller Furm," said Harry, reading from the letter Sirius had sent him, "and Hexes, Curses, and Charms, Befuddle Your Enemies by Grace Less."
"Maybe we should ask someone at the desk."
They walked up to the front desk and asked about the two books. The clerk immediately looked interested. "So, you fine young gentlemen are interested in some of the best books on Dueling? Well, I must say, you have made excellent choices." The clerk got up and walked Harry and Ron over to a long bookshelf that had thousands of books on it all shining new. Before Harry knew what had happened to him he had two massive tomes in his arms and he was being walked back to the front desk.
"Any other books that I could help you gather?" asked the overactive worker.
Harry managed to barely fumble out his note, almost dropping the huge books in the process. "Uh, also Dueling: How to Hit and not Get Hit Back by I. Loss Tmiarm."
"Another excellent choice! Not quite in the same league as the other two, but still classes up there." The clerk dove off into the shop, not even bothering to lead Harry or Ron with him this time. When he returned Ron was trying very hard not to laugh. Harry now had books piled so high on his arms that he couldn't see over them.
"That will be 356 galleons." Now Harry did drop the books.
"356 galleons?!" Harry exclaimed incredulously.
Now the clerk looked annoyed. "You did know that each of the two first books cost 150 galleons correct? We at Flourish and Blotts understand that a person can likely not carry 356 galleons so we have a special pay method. All you have to do is sign here and we will send carts down to Gringott's for you."
He pulled out a piece of paper with fine print all over it and Harry's eyes went very wide. Another voice came from behind Harry, "Let me see that Harry." It was Mr. Weasley. The clerk suddenly looked very shifty. Mr. Weasley read the paper and smirked tossing it back to the clerk.
"Okay, you can stop trying to cheat the boys now." he, however, seemed amused.
"That will be 120 galleons." Harry reached down and picked up the books from the floor. "Thanks," he said.
"Not a problem."
***
"What is so special about these books anyway?" Harry asked as he awkwardly walked down the street, trying to balance the far too large books in his arms.
"Yea," added Ron, "There has to be more than 4,000 pages in that 4,000 Defensive Charms book!"
"I think that I have heard about those two. Most of the book is filled with runes that cause a classroom like setting to appear. The book can't actually be understood just by reading it, I think." said Mr. Weasley.
"What do you mean by 'cause a classroom like setting to appear'?" asked Ron curiously.
"I think that it uses some illusion spells to make the person think they are in a classroom with a teacher to instruct them. I heard Jerry, a friend of mine at work, talking about them."
"Sounds like you are going to have to let me borrow those when you are finished, Harry." said Ron looking over at the two "books".
"Why is this third one so good?" asked Harry nodding his head towards the book on the top of the stack.
Mr. Weasley tapped his wand on the bricks that lead to the Leaky Cauldron as he responded, "Dueling: How to Hit and Not Get Hit Back is one of the most famous books on dueling known. All the professional duelers in the league have practically memorized it."
"There is a dueling league?" asked Harry, wondering when the fountain of things he didn't know about the wizarding world would run dry.
"Of course," said Ron. "The two most watched professional sports are Quidditch and Dueling. Only Dueling has fallen out of style lately."
"It was actually much more known than Quidditch for a time," explained Mr. Weasley, "Then Voldemort came and killed some of the top duelers. No one wanted to join for fear of being killed. It just hasn't picked up since then."
Harry, Ron, and Mr. Weasley all walked through the entryway into the Leaky Cauldron and headed over to the fire. "Well, it was nice seeing you Harry," said Mr. Weasley as he pulled some Floo Powder from next to the fireplace.
"Oh yea, I almost forgot." started Harry, "I wanted to know if Ron might be able to come over to the Dursleys some time. Just because I can't go around visiting people doesn't mean that he can't."
"Hmm, that sounds alright to me, but wouldn't your aunt and uncle have a problem with that? They seem to have a problem with magi from what I have seen."
"I'll find some way to convince them." responded Harry, pleased that he might be able to have Ron come over.
"Sounds great to me!" said Ron, "Well… goodbye Harry. Get to work on convincing the Dursleys quick!"
"I will. Bye." Harry turned to the now green flames and a thought suddenly occurred to him. "What do I do when I reach the other end? Won't the fireplace still be there?"
Mr. Weasley looked momentarily surprised and then said, "You're right. I'll follow you through and get you through the fireplace."
"Thanks. The Dursleys!" said Harry as he stepped confidently into the fire.
***
"What did you get?" asked Dudley as Harry carried his books up to his room.
"A couple of books on defensive and offensive dueling spells, plus a book on how to duel." Harry responded, slamming the overly large books down on his bed. Dudley leaned over Harry excitedly as Harry opened the book to see complex rune patterns covering it.
"Hey, those are the runes that you have been studying from the other book. Do you know what they say?"
"No clue. I've only been studying basic runes. This stuff is really complex."
"What good is the book then!?" asked Dudley, completely incredulous.
"I think that there should be some instructions in the front," muttered Harry to himself as he flipped to the first page. There was a small black dot in the center with minute writing about it. It said "Place wand tip here." Harry pointed it out to Dudley.
"You see, the runes cause magic to happen. Basically, all I have to do is touch my wand to the paper and start learning." he explained. Dudley nodded and reached over to the desk where Harry had put down his wand. He handed it over to Harry. "Here you go."
"Thanks." Harry leaned over the book and placed the tip of his wand onto the small black dot. For a moment nothing happened. He stood, leaning over his bed staring at the page. Just when Harry was about to look for more instructions because it wasn't working he felt a pull at the tip of his wand. It was being pulled into the paper.
"Wha!?" exclaimed Harry as his entire arm slid into the paper. Suddenly, Harry saw the entire room slide out of view as he fell into the page on his book.
***
Cameron bent over some of his homework, trying to work out long division. "Hey dad, what is fourteen divided by seven?"
"Two," said his father flipping some eggs over on the griddle. Slowly, Cameron worked through his homework. When he finished he got up saying, "I'm done. Can I eat now?"
"Put your homework in your backpack first." he responded, smiling. Cameron walked down the hallway and opened the closet to put his homework in his backpack. He never saw the man come from behind him, and never heard the muttered words "Avada Kedavra". He was dead before he hit the floor.
***
"Arthur," called Mrs. Weasley from the hall, "You can't go now, there have to be others who can handle it!"
"Molly, this is the first Muggle killing. I need to get out there to represent the ministry."
"Surely there are others. The area could still be dangerous. Leave it up to the Aurors." she pleaded.
"Molly, I'll be fine. I need to go now, or I'll be late." he said.
"I thought that you were just called into work earlier," said Ron, who was standing down the hallway. "Why do you have to go back so soon?"
Mr. Weasley now looked annoyed. "I need to get to work. Molly, could you please explain it to the kids?"
She also looked vexed, but must have figured that it would be more prudent to let it go rather than argue in front of Ron and whoever else might show up. "Sure. Go ahead. Ron, could you get Ginny and your brothers together. The first Muggle killings have started. They will want to know."
White faced, Ron stumbled down the hall to Ginny's door.
***
Harry looked around him to see a small, well-lit classroom that had only one desk that sat directly in the center of it. The walls were completely bare and had a sort of unnatural straightness to them. It was as if someone had taken some very powerful sandpaper and sanded the bricks perfectly flat. At the front of the room there was a chalkboard that had terms written on it in neat handwriting. In fact, it was so neat that it was perfect. It looked like it had been written out on Dudley's computer because the letters were so perfect.
Harry shrugged and sat down at the desk, scooting the chair into a comfortable position. As if his sitting had triggered a lesson to start, a short balding man walked into the room. But there is no door, thought Harry. Apparently, when he was inside this whatever world normal rules do not apply.
"Hello, I will be your teacher, Mr. Furm. What is your name?" his speech did have inflections in it, but it was so perfectly regulated that it sounded like it was a voice out of the games at the arcade.
"Uh," started Harry, completely unnerved by this new experience, "I'm Harry Potter."
"Hello, Harry Potter. Is there a particular charm that you wanted to learn or would you like to have me assess your skills to understand what would be the best charm for you to learn." The odd man also talked incredibly fast, as if there was nothing to slow him down. It took Harry a moment to understand what he had said.
"Uh, you can go ahead and assess my skills." Several things happened at once. The teacher disappeared and Harry's desk was promptly gone leaving him to fall to the floor. A wand appeared in his hand. It took Harry a moment to realize that it was his own. Suddenly, there was a booming voice filling the room.
"Attempt to not be hit by the various spells that will come towards you. Use all of your abilities to remedy any effects that they might cause. The test will continue until you have either been disarmed or until ten minutes has transpired. Do you have any questions?"
Harry could think of plenty of questions, and was about to ask where the spells would come from when the voice said, "Begin."
"Expeliarmus." the voice came from nowhere in particular, but the spell came from a small hole that had appeared in the otherwise perfect wall. A small beam of light fired out that Harry barely had time to dodge. He dove out the way to hear, "Expeliarmus" come firing from a different position on the wall. Again, Harry dodged it, this time with more ease. It was just like the dodging drills that he had had to do at Kung Fu. Slowly, Harry worked himself into a focused trance and didn't listen to the various spells that came flying from the holes. Eventually, Harry was hit from behind when five spells came out at once.
"Total time, six minutes and twenty-three seconds. Excellence completed at dodging, failure at defensive spells. Excellence completed at focus, failure at ingenuity. Total score is 46%. Work is necessary in the fast paced defensive spells." The voice again boomed from all around Harry, surprising him with its results. Harry was again shocked at a sudden jolt that sent him flying back into the desk, wand gone from his hand. Paper was suddenly before him and it filled with questions.
What are some basic defensive spells?
In what type of fight would Tactori be used?
In what type of fight would Heltori be used?
Harry looked at the questions in surprise. The questions went as far down as number 462. By the time he completed the quiz he would have a beard. "Hey, uh, Mr. Furm? I-" Harry was cut off in his sentence by the teacher appearing right in front of him.
"Yes, Harry Potter?" he asked.
"Uh, I don't know the answers to any of this." Harry said.
"Ah, yes. Likely a Hogwarts student. Am I right?" the words still came out so fast that Harry could hardly keep up with him.
"Yea, I'm about to begin my fifth year." Harry said.
"Well then," the teacher said, "I suppose that I will just have to begin your education on defensive charms from scratch. How fast do you want to learn all of this?"
"What do you mean?" asked Harry. He hadn't quite caught all that Mr. Furm had said.
"In order to decided how much time you need to spend in this book, I need to know how much you want to learn and how quickly you want to learn it." By now, the paper had disappeared from Harry's desk. He was finally starting to get used to the way that Mr. Furm talked.
"I want to know enough to hold my own against fellow fifth years by the end of a month." said Harry, hoping that he wouldn't have to spend too much time studying. He still had Kung Fu and the other Dueling book to deal with after all. I bet Hermione would have opted to be able to take on Voldemort himself by the end of the week, he thought to himself ruefully.
"Harry Potter, you can already take on the average fifth year. The report on dodging you did was excellent. Right now, you should be able to take on up to a good sixth year."
Harry raised his eyebrows in surprise. Maybe Kung Fu can actually be good for something in the wizarding world… Harry thought, I can use my concentration drills to focus on homework and use some of the dodging skills in the dueling club.
"So… Maybe I should try for something greater." Harry thought for a moment. "Is there any defensive spell that Aurors use as a basic spell? Like stuff they used against death eaters when Voldemort was back." Harry referred to Voldemort in past tense because he assumed that the book wouldn't have as recent information as he wizarding world had.
"Ah, so you are thinking about becoming an Auror? Well, there are a few, but they are very difficult. You would have to learn a lot of theory. About how long do you have that you could spend studying here each day?"
Harry did a quick mental calculation. "Maybe about an hour a day."
"At that rate you will be working on theory for about three months before you will even get to learning the spells. Is that alright?"
That wouldn't work. The dueling club would have already begun before Harry would learn the spells. "What if I were here two and a half hours a day?"
"Then it would take a little more than a month and you would be through the theory."
I would have to skip doing the offensive charms, but I could do it I suppose… "Sure, I'll be back tomorrow. But, uh…" Harry paused for a moment, "how do I get out of here?
"Just pull your wand off of the black dot." explained Mr. Furm.
"How?"
"Just lift your arm." Confused, Harry lifted his arm to see his room come swirling into view.
***