Harry Potter and the Call to War
Chapter 2: Portents of the Future
Disclaimer: Nothing is mine, all belongs to the JKR and Warner Brothers! If it were mine it would probably suck!
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Severus Snape walked through the halls of Hogwarts on his way to meet the Headmaster. After spending a night and most of a day with the Dark Lord he was visibly drained. It still made him laugh to think of how easily he could slip back into the old routine. It felt like a familiar mask that to easily fell into place. He was scared to realize that after fifteen years he could so quickly revert to turning a blind eye at human beings being tortured to death.
The previous night had been a grand party which he was still trying to suppress the details of. Which was simply just a meager attempt to forget about what he would have to recall for Albus this afternoon. Still a reprieve just for the moment was still a reprieve.
Snape stopped for a moment before rushing to the nearest bathroom to vomit the contents of his stomach into the sink. Snape turned on the cold water and splashed some on his weary face. Cupping his hands he let the cool water build before drinking it to soothe his burned throat. His gaze landed upon the mirror where he faced his own pale reflection. Not the least bit surprised to see that he could no longer recognize the face in the mirror.
One mistake had ruined his entire future. He was now marked and would remain as such. Even if it would be possible to remove the physical evidence of his mistake he could never cleanse his soul. He searched the mirror for some vague memory of who stood before him. However he could no longer connect himself to his past. All he saw where images of the crimes he committed and the pain he caused. Even to this day he was forced to harm others to protect himself and his position.
Snape hated what he saw in himself. Mostly because he couldn't see anything. In a rage he slammed his fist into the mirror causing it to shatter and bite into his hand. Blood dripped into the sink and clung to where his fist made contact with the glass.
Disgust, anger, hate, and pain were the only things he had left to keep him going. Loneliness was all that promised to await his future. He was empty and that is how he would remain.
The other Professor's had learned to keep away from him because they didn't want to get snapped at. Snape let a sneer come over his face. His own loneliness was not caused by others. He couldn't blame Black for the way he had turned out. He had his chance at redemption, yet he continued to punish himself. He had turned into his own worst enemy.
How many more times could he kill in the name of protecting others. It's funny how in order to protect some innocent lives others must be taken. This was the life of a spy, putting the lives of the masses above the ones that would be already lost.
Snape felt dirty after the previous nights events. He wanted to fall into the shower and let the water pour over his body. Releasing him of his guilt and damnation that refused to leave. He longed for the day that he would finally be free from the weight that continually dragged him down.
A long time ago he had come to the conclusion that he was damned to hell. No amount of penance would redeem him of his crimes. So after finding his calm in the knowledge that he would one day pay his debt he set fourth once more for the Headmasters office.
The halls of Hogwarts were always quite in the summer time. No students voices to clutter your thoughts and no one getting in your way. Snape despised the children, they were always so naïve. Sometimes he wondered why he ever choose to take Albus's offer to be a teacher. He disliked teaching those who still believed that all is beautiful in the world. Perhaps that's why he favored the Slytherins, they seemed to have a more accurate idea of what the world was truly like.
Soon Snape found himself standing before the gargoyle that guarded the office of the headmaster. "Gum drops" the gargoyle stepped to the side revealing the stairway. Snape slowly climbed the stairs and knocked on the large wooden doors that secured the entrance.
"Come in!" the headmaster's depressively cheery voice came from the other side. Why was that man always sounding so damn happy.
Snape pushed through the door open and took a seat in the chair in front of the headmasters desk. The office never changed much, it still had the same cheery colors and the various magical items sprinkled here and there.
"Good afternoon headmaster, we have much to talk about." Snape's voice betrayed the depressed mood he had fallen into since his return from what he affectionately called hell.
"Did you find him then, and if so where is he?" Dumbledore had put away what he was working on in favor of the new information he was about to be presented with.
"Yes Albus, I did manage to locate Karkaroff." Snape said trying to suppress the weariness that suddenly feel over his entire being.
"Then where is he, we have much to discuss. Is he in the castle now?" Dumbledore was quite excited to have something going his way for once. Recently he had only received bad news.
"No, I'd imagine he's currently in the Dark Lord's dungeon at the moment. Probably undergoing some type of torture." Snape rolled the word's off his tongue like he was simply talking about the weather.
"What do you mean Voldemort has him? Did he get there first? You must tell me exactly what happened." Beneath the surface Dumbledore had become very concerned for Severus. Perhaps by understanding what he had gone through to bring this change could help.
"It seems that fate has decided to make our decisions for us Albus." Snape let his words trail in the air. A cold laugh rolled from his mouth as he thought about how just a few days earlier they weren't sure if he would even get the chance to rejoin.
Snape then explained the events that transpired the prior night. He told of how it had turned into a grand party to torture the betrayer and kill some Muggles who had been rounded up as party favors. They had used Muggle women before killing them, and made their husbands watch all the while. They had tortured children while allowing their cries to fall on their parents ears. For in Voldemort's army it wasn't enough to simply kill, you had to break their spirits first.
"You don't have to go back Severus. We can gain information through other methods. It isn't necessary for you to spy any longer." Though this was a lie, Albus was willing to make due for the sanity of his friend.
"You know as well as I that I am our only current source of information. Besides, Karkaroff is as good as dead. We might as well take whatever good can come of it." Snape had resigned himself to his chosen path.
"Karkaroff's death does come as a blow. I had hoped he would return to Durmstrang. The last thing we need now is for a change in leadership with a potential ally. We can only hope Voldemort doesn't influence the selection of the new headmaster. At least with Karkaroff we could be assured that he wouldn't turn back to Voldemort." Dumbledore released a heavy sigh. He had hoped to be able to unite the three prominent European magical schools against Voldemort. Now his task would be that much harder.
"I am not entirely sure where Voldemort currently is or what he is planning, but I have been invited back for Karkaroff's death. It is to be a private ceremony, and only observed by the inner circle. Voldemort said that he would show how even a traitor could be useful to him. I am not sure of his meaning, but he is scheduled for execution early next weak. I'm hoping to help him along quicker so he will be sparred whatever Voldemort has in store for him." Snape leaned back in his chair and turned his gaze to the flickering flames of the fire place.
"Very well, I just advice you to be careful. In the meanwhile you should stay here at the castle in case I have need of you."
"Yes headmaster. If you don't mind I am a bit tired now and would appreciate a good rest. So if you don't have anything further to discuss I would like to retire to my quarters." Snape suppressed a yawn which fought to overwhelm him.
"You may my friend, and I pray your rest is a peaceful one. Perhaps some dreamless sleep potion is in order?" Dumbledore watched as Severus left the room. Soon he found himself wondering if allowing Severus to spy was actually a wise idea.
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Harry walked down the hallway to his bedroom at 4 Privet drive. Today could only be described as a living hell for him. When he wasn't being told how scrawny and worthless he was, he had to listen to how great Dudley was. Apparently Aunt Marge had been terribly disappointed to not get a chance to yell at him the last time she was in. The Ministry did a good job of changing what she remembered of her last visit.
No sooner did Harry sit down and open his Transfiguration book then his name was bellowed once more. So after resigning himself to the fact that there would be no escape from the Dursley's he made his way back downstairs.
"About time boy, you should be more prompt when called. Doesn't that school of yours teach you any type of manners?" Harry had lost count of how many different things she decided to yell at him about. However he was quite surprised that she hadn't run out of new material yet.
Vernon just sat on the couch giving Harry the evil eye. Harry wondered if his uncle expected him to inflate her again. If Harry had his choice he'd simply add her to the bouncing ferret club and let it be done with.
"Why don't you do something useful, like bring me a brandy. I can't believe your Aunt and Uncle are willing to put up with your mangy self." Harry walked to the serving table and poured his Aunt a glass of Brandy, all the while considering whether he'd get into trouble for one canary cream on a Muggle.
"He's your drink Aunt Marge." Harry handed her the glass and then took his place back on the sofa.
"Just like his parents, this one is. Lazy as all get out and worthless to boot. I still say you should never have allowed him into your house." Harry pleaded with the fates for that to have been a possibility. Alas it wasn't and he had been doomed to this life.
"Good for nothing they were, deserved what they got. It's just to bad this on didn't die with them." All right, Harry had begun to get a bit annoyed. He didn't let anyone talk about his parents that way, especially fat Muggles who don't deserve to even utter their names.
"You can talk about me as much as you want. However, I will not tolerate you bad mouthing my parents." Harry tried to remain calm and keep his temper in check. It would do him no good to get in trouble for the use of magic outside of school.
"Did you hear him speak to me like that Vernon? You going to let him get away with that?" She turned to Vernon as if she expected him to fly off the handle.
"Certainly not! Now see here boy, you will not speak to your aunt so disrespectfully. She is only stating the truth and the sooner you realize it the better off you'll be. Your parents were worthless and so are you!" If it had not been for the ringing of the front door, something more might have transpired. However Harry quickly moved to answer it and avoid the impending explosion.
Harry opened the front door to confront to figures who did not belong amongst the normalcy that was Privet Drive.
"Hagrid! Professor Lupin! What are you doing here? I didn't expect to see anyone until the beginning of the year. You can come in, however my Aunt Marge is here and it may not be to pleasant of a visit." Professor Lupin entered into the house followed by Hagrid who had to duck to get through the doorway.
"Not to worry Harry, we won't be staying long. In fact we came to discuss a few matters and then you will be coming with us. Is there a place we can talk?" Harry thought about where to take them. Hagrid wouldn't fit in his bedroom and the Dursley's were in the living room, so they'd have to use the kitchen.
"Sure right this way." Harry lead the way into the kitchen before speaking again.
"It's been a long time since I've seen you Professor. Though I am happy to see you I trust this isn't a social call." Harry embraced his former teacher and then moved on to give Hagrid a hug as well.
"Please call me Remus, Professor makes me feel old." Remus grinned as he took his seat at the table.
"So what brings you to the center of Muggle hell this fine day?" Truth be told Harry was actually quite concerned over the implications of this visit. Sirius or one of his friends could be in grave danger.
"Yer right Harry, its not a social call at all. We're on Hogwart's business today." Hagrid had a smile on his face. This helped to put Harry at ease. Thoughts of a early return to Hogwarts and a escape from the Dursley's filled his mind.
Harry was about to ask what business they were on and how it concerned him when his Aunt stepped into the kitchen and screamed. Before you could say Quidditch the rest of the Dursley family was streaming into the kitchen. Vernon was the first to speak as his face began to change to a very bright red.
"How dare you let your freakish kind into my house! Get out, get out right this minute." Aunt Marge choose this moment to add in her two sense.
"You should call the bobby's on them. Just like this boy to bring more criminals into the house. You could always tell he was trouble. Just like his good for nothing parents." You could feel the temperature drop in the room. Even Vernon knew that was not the right thing to say in front of these people. His nephew was one thing, but these were fully grown wizards and Hagrid was more then intimidating. However Marge didn't recognize the icy stares she was now on the receiving end of.
"I told you that you should of just killed the runt when he was a baby and be done with it." That had pushed Remus to far, and with a flick of his wand Aunt Marge was no longer standing in the kitchen. In her place was a rather fat walrus that seemed to be very confused.
"You turn my sister back you freak, before I do call for help!" Remus gaze did not waver at the fat man who was now irately screaming before him.
"She'll turn back in a hour and be none the wiser, now you better leave before you spend the next hour as a cock roach." Vernon paled before grabbing his son and running from the kitchen. Harry turned to Remus and tried to suppress the smile that had been growing on his face.
"Now what were we talking about before we were rudely interrupted?" Harry snickered as he looked over to where the Walrus was now sleeping on the carpet.
Remus explained Dumbledore's plan to bring Harry with them to the giant's camp. Harry was quite excited at the prospect of getting to do something for the war, and he was more than willing to agree. At this point Harry would have agreed to going as a ambassador to the Dementor's as long as he was helping in some way.
"So, when do we leave?" Harry was already to get up and leave right then and there. Sensing the boy's excitement Remus answered his question.
"We leave tomorrow morning. We will be traveling to Diagon Alley to collect supplies today and then we will stay at the Leaky Cauldron where a Port key to the edge of Wizard territory will await us in the morning. Seeing that the Giant's are nomadic we will be forced to travel on foot and by broom from there to locate them. The Headmaster has arranged that after we leave Wizard territory you will be allowed to use magic so you will need your wand. Madame Maxime will meet us at the Port key point in the morning." Remus gave Harry a camping pack and instructed him to fetch clothes and anything he would need, including his broom. Harry was also informed that anything he didn't bring would be sent to Hogwarts.
"What about Ron and Hermione, what if they try to owl me while I'm away?" Harry was concerned about his friends being afraid for his disappearance.
"They have been told that you will be away and not to send you mail until they are told they can. We are going completely covertly. So no one will be able to find us except for the Headmaster and Fawkes. Other then that we will have no communication till we return." Harry nodded and then went to prepare his pack for the trip.
Harry choose to bring his invisibility cloak with him, just in case he needed it, then gathered his clothes and broom. After sealing his pack the rest of his belongings disappeared from his room. Then after saying good bye to Hedwig and promising to see her at the start of term he sent her off to Hogwart's as well.
Back in the kitchen Harry meet back up with Hagrid and Remus who were just standing to leave themselves.
"How are we traveling to Diagon Alley?" Harry wasn't sure if he wanted to see the fireplace blown up once more to make room for their exit.
"We have a Port Key which should take us out to Gringott's. Dumbledore has supplied us with funds for any necessities we will need. Now we should be off." With that the unusual group left Privet Drive for adventures untold. As they Port keyed away Harry realized just how weird their group was. A wizard in training, a half giant and a werewolf, and they were even headed to a bar. It sounded like the start of some very bad joke. Before he had time to laugh he felt the pull behind his navel that signified the Port key taking effect.
Harry landed in Diagon Alley still snickering over the irony of their group. It felt good to be back in the Wizarding world. He had actually missed his trip to Diagon Alley the year before. So he was glad to see the familiar shops that lined the alley once more. They first made their way to the Apothecary where they picked up many healing herbs for their trip as well as some poisons that they could use to kill animals for food without ruining the meet. After that they made there way to Flourish and Blott's were Remus picked up several books to help prepare Harry, as well as a few on giant customs so they could prepare for the meeting. They stopped at Madam Malkims so that Harry could pick up some sturdy traveling robes and some that were designed for free motion while fighting. After making a few more stops to pick up provisions they made their way to the Leaky Cauldron where they checked in for the night to rest for the journey that would begin the next day.
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Hermione Granger sat in a large comfy chair reading her History of Magic book to pass the time until dinner. She had received news that Harry would be unreachable for the rest of the summer, yet the reason why was not revealed. She had also received a letter from Professor Dumbledore that still made her chuckle at the thought of it. Reaching over to her desk she grabbed the letter again.
Dear Mrs. Granger,
It has come to my attention that you have come into possession of a rather unusual creature. If it is at all possible I would appreciate you sending me this very rare specimen. I do believe that it is the only example of a Beetle/Rat we have ever seen. You may send it back with this owl. I assure you that this specimen will be well taken care of and very useful to us in the future.
Sincerely Headmaster Dumbledore
Hermione still wasn't sure how he had come to the knowledge that she had captured Rita Skeeter, but she had promptly attached the jar with the unbreakable charm to the bird and sent it on it's way. This would surely teach that witch not to mess with a Granger ever again.
Hermione had been very worried about her friend Harry Potter, and now that she wasn't even sure of his location she was even more worried. Ron Weasley had sent her a letter that said he had no idea where Harry was as well. However he did say that Harry was doing something important for Dumbledore. Whatever it was she prayed that it wouldn't lead him into any danger. Little did she know that Harry would now be on a collision course with one of the first major battles in these dark times. For now she could only pray for his safety.
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Lord Voldemort stood in his throne room in the newly risen Dark Castle. He had a very pleasing day, and expected to have more to come. He had made the call for his Dementor's and told them to remain where they were for now. He also had one of his faithful return to his fold, as well as one who had betrayed him. Now before he retired he had one more piece of business to attend to.
"Wormtail, come before me now!" A balding man walked before the form of the Dark Lord and then fell to his knees in supplication.
"How might I serve you master?" Peter remained on his knees before his masters throne.
"You will take several of my new servants as well as some of my followers and travel to the giant's to extend my hand once more to them. I believe that fool Dumbledore will attempt to reach them first so I want you to track down those he sends and kill them. The giants have become reclusive so even I know not where they are. After you destroy Dumbledore's envoy you will have to track them down for yourselves. Pray you do not fail me." Voldemort's voice was icy and cared with it death threats that one wouldn't doubt he would carry out.
"Yes my Lord, When do you wish me to leave?" Wormtail remained in his prostrated position.
"You will leave after the death of Karkaroff, I want you there to witness this event. Now leave me in peace." Voldemort made a gesture with his hand and Wormtail backed out of the room. Never allowing his head to raise to meet his masters eyes.
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A/N: Another Chapter done! REJOICE, yes go me. Anyway hope you liked it! Look for the First week of Harry's journey next chapter, as well as Snape's attempt to make Karkaroff's death a peaceful one, also we see what's happening with Arthur Weasley and Minister Fudge, not to mention Brin and Sirius begin to gather scattered forces, we should see Dumbledore exerting some force over Rita as well and possibly we'll see Wormtail closing in on our intrepid adventurers. Thnx to those who read and reviewed. And look for the next chapter around Wednesday maybe earlier but that would be the latest. Depending on if I add anything to the next chapter.
R/R please, as it makes me write happier.
Chapter 2: Portents of the Future
Disclaimer: Nothing is mine, all belongs to the JKR and Warner Brothers! If it were mine it would probably suck!
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Severus Snape walked through the halls of Hogwarts on his way to meet the Headmaster. After spending a night and most of a day with the Dark Lord he was visibly drained. It still made him laugh to think of how easily he could slip back into the old routine. It felt like a familiar mask that to easily fell into place. He was scared to realize that after fifteen years he could so quickly revert to turning a blind eye at human beings being tortured to death.
The previous night had been a grand party which he was still trying to suppress the details of. Which was simply just a meager attempt to forget about what he would have to recall for Albus this afternoon. Still a reprieve just for the moment was still a reprieve.
Snape stopped for a moment before rushing to the nearest bathroom to vomit the contents of his stomach into the sink. Snape turned on the cold water and splashed some on his weary face. Cupping his hands he let the cool water build before drinking it to soothe his burned throat. His gaze landed upon the mirror where he faced his own pale reflection. Not the least bit surprised to see that he could no longer recognize the face in the mirror.
One mistake had ruined his entire future. He was now marked and would remain as such. Even if it would be possible to remove the physical evidence of his mistake he could never cleanse his soul. He searched the mirror for some vague memory of who stood before him. However he could no longer connect himself to his past. All he saw where images of the crimes he committed and the pain he caused. Even to this day he was forced to harm others to protect himself and his position.
Snape hated what he saw in himself. Mostly because he couldn't see anything. In a rage he slammed his fist into the mirror causing it to shatter and bite into his hand. Blood dripped into the sink and clung to where his fist made contact with the glass.
Disgust, anger, hate, and pain were the only things he had left to keep him going. Loneliness was all that promised to await his future. He was empty and that is how he would remain.
The other Professor's had learned to keep away from him because they didn't want to get snapped at. Snape let a sneer come over his face. His own loneliness was not caused by others. He couldn't blame Black for the way he had turned out. He had his chance at redemption, yet he continued to punish himself. He had turned into his own worst enemy.
How many more times could he kill in the name of protecting others. It's funny how in order to protect some innocent lives others must be taken. This was the life of a spy, putting the lives of the masses above the ones that would be already lost.
Snape felt dirty after the previous nights events. He wanted to fall into the shower and let the water pour over his body. Releasing him of his guilt and damnation that refused to leave. He longed for the day that he would finally be free from the weight that continually dragged him down.
A long time ago he had come to the conclusion that he was damned to hell. No amount of penance would redeem him of his crimes. So after finding his calm in the knowledge that he would one day pay his debt he set fourth once more for the Headmasters office.
The halls of Hogwarts were always quite in the summer time. No students voices to clutter your thoughts and no one getting in your way. Snape despised the children, they were always so naïve. Sometimes he wondered why he ever choose to take Albus's offer to be a teacher. He disliked teaching those who still believed that all is beautiful in the world. Perhaps that's why he favored the Slytherins, they seemed to have a more accurate idea of what the world was truly like.
Soon Snape found himself standing before the gargoyle that guarded the office of the headmaster. "Gum drops" the gargoyle stepped to the side revealing the stairway. Snape slowly climbed the stairs and knocked on the large wooden doors that secured the entrance.
"Come in!" the headmaster's depressively cheery voice came from the other side. Why was that man always sounding so damn happy.
Snape pushed through the door open and took a seat in the chair in front of the headmasters desk. The office never changed much, it still had the same cheery colors and the various magical items sprinkled here and there.
"Good afternoon headmaster, we have much to talk about." Snape's voice betrayed the depressed mood he had fallen into since his return from what he affectionately called hell.
"Did you find him then, and if so where is he?" Dumbledore had put away what he was working on in favor of the new information he was about to be presented with.
"Yes Albus, I did manage to locate Karkaroff." Snape said trying to suppress the weariness that suddenly feel over his entire being.
"Then where is he, we have much to discuss. Is he in the castle now?" Dumbledore was quite excited to have something going his way for once. Recently he had only received bad news.
"No, I'd imagine he's currently in the Dark Lord's dungeon at the moment. Probably undergoing some type of torture." Snape rolled the word's off his tongue like he was simply talking about the weather.
"What do you mean Voldemort has him? Did he get there first? You must tell me exactly what happened." Beneath the surface Dumbledore had become very concerned for Severus. Perhaps by understanding what he had gone through to bring this change could help.
"It seems that fate has decided to make our decisions for us Albus." Snape let his words trail in the air. A cold laugh rolled from his mouth as he thought about how just a few days earlier they weren't sure if he would even get the chance to rejoin.
Snape then explained the events that transpired the prior night. He told of how it had turned into a grand party to torture the betrayer and kill some Muggles who had been rounded up as party favors. They had used Muggle women before killing them, and made their husbands watch all the while. They had tortured children while allowing their cries to fall on their parents ears. For in Voldemort's army it wasn't enough to simply kill, you had to break their spirits first.
"You don't have to go back Severus. We can gain information through other methods. It isn't necessary for you to spy any longer." Though this was a lie, Albus was willing to make due for the sanity of his friend.
"You know as well as I that I am our only current source of information. Besides, Karkaroff is as good as dead. We might as well take whatever good can come of it." Snape had resigned himself to his chosen path.
"Karkaroff's death does come as a blow. I had hoped he would return to Durmstrang. The last thing we need now is for a change in leadership with a potential ally. We can only hope Voldemort doesn't influence the selection of the new headmaster. At least with Karkaroff we could be assured that he wouldn't turn back to Voldemort." Dumbledore released a heavy sigh. He had hoped to be able to unite the three prominent European magical schools against Voldemort. Now his task would be that much harder.
"I am not entirely sure where Voldemort currently is or what he is planning, but I have been invited back for Karkaroff's death. It is to be a private ceremony, and only observed by the inner circle. Voldemort said that he would show how even a traitor could be useful to him. I am not sure of his meaning, but he is scheduled for execution early next weak. I'm hoping to help him along quicker so he will be sparred whatever Voldemort has in store for him." Snape leaned back in his chair and turned his gaze to the flickering flames of the fire place.
"Very well, I just advice you to be careful. In the meanwhile you should stay here at the castle in case I have need of you."
"Yes headmaster. If you don't mind I am a bit tired now and would appreciate a good rest. So if you don't have anything further to discuss I would like to retire to my quarters." Snape suppressed a yawn which fought to overwhelm him.
"You may my friend, and I pray your rest is a peaceful one. Perhaps some dreamless sleep potion is in order?" Dumbledore watched as Severus left the room. Soon he found himself wondering if allowing Severus to spy was actually a wise idea.
******
Harry walked down the hallway to his bedroom at 4 Privet drive. Today could only be described as a living hell for him. When he wasn't being told how scrawny and worthless he was, he had to listen to how great Dudley was. Apparently Aunt Marge had been terribly disappointed to not get a chance to yell at him the last time she was in. The Ministry did a good job of changing what she remembered of her last visit.
No sooner did Harry sit down and open his Transfiguration book then his name was bellowed once more. So after resigning himself to the fact that there would be no escape from the Dursley's he made his way back downstairs.
"About time boy, you should be more prompt when called. Doesn't that school of yours teach you any type of manners?" Harry had lost count of how many different things she decided to yell at him about. However he was quite surprised that she hadn't run out of new material yet.
Vernon just sat on the couch giving Harry the evil eye. Harry wondered if his uncle expected him to inflate her again. If Harry had his choice he'd simply add her to the bouncing ferret club and let it be done with.
"Why don't you do something useful, like bring me a brandy. I can't believe your Aunt and Uncle are willing to put up with your mangy self." Harry walked to the serving table and poured his Aunt a glass of Brandy, all the while considering whether he'd get into trouble for one canary cream on a Muggle.
"He's your drink Aunt Marge." Harry handed her the glass and then took his place back on the sofa.
"Just like his parents, this one is. Lazy as all get out and worthless to boot. I still say you should never have allowed him into your house." Harry pleaded with the fates for that to have been a possibility. Alas it wasn't and he had been doomed to this life.
"Good for nothing they were, deserved what they got. It's just to bad this on didn't die with them." All right, Harry had begun to get a bit annoyed. He didn't let anyone talk about his parents that way, especially fat Muggles who don't deserve to even utter their names.
"You can talk about me as much as you want. However, I will not tolerate you bad mouthing my parents." Harry tried to remain calm and keep his temper in check. It would do him no good to get in trouble for the use of magic outside of school.
"Did you hear him speak to me like that Vernon? You going to let him get away with that?" She turned to Vernon as if she expected him to fly off the handle.
"Certainly not! Now see here boy, you will not speak to your aunt so disrespectfully. She is only stating the truth and the sooner you realize it the better off you'll be. Your parents were worthless and so are you!" If it had not been for the ringing of the front door, something more might have transpired. However Harry quickly moved to answer it and avoid the impending explosion.
Harry opened the front door to confront to figures who did not belong amongst the normalcy that was Privet Drive.
"Hagrid! Professor Lupin! What are you doing here? I didn't expect to see anyone until the beginning of the year. You can come in, however my Aunt Marge is here and it may not be to pleasant of a visit." Professor Lupin entered into the house followed by Hagrid who had to duck to get through the doorway.
"Not to worry Harry, we won't be staying long. In fact we came to discuss a few matters and then you will be coming with us. Is there a place we can talk?" Harry thought about where to take them. Hagrid wouldn't fit in his bedroom and the Dursley's were in the living room, so they'd have to use the kitchen.
"Sure right this way." Harry lead the way into the kitchen before speaking again.
"It's been a long time since I've seen you Professor. Though I am happy to see you I trust this isn't a social call." Harry embraced his former teacher and then moved on to give Hagrid a hug as well.
"Please call me Remus, Professor makes me feel old." Remus grinned as he took his seat at the table.
"So what brings you to the center of Muggle hell this fine day?" Truth be told Harry was actually quite concerned over the implications of this visit. Sirius or one of his friends could be in grave danger.
"Yer right Harry, its not a social call at all. We're on Hogwart's business today." Hagrid had a smile on his face. This helped to put Harry at ease. Thoughts of a early return to Hogwarts and a escape from the Dursley's filled his mind.
Harry was about to ask what business they were on and how it concerned him when his Aunt stepped into the kitchen and screamed. Before you could say Quidditch the rest of the Dursley family was streaming into the kitchen. Vernon was the first to speak as his face began to change to a very bright red.
"How dare you let your freakish kind into my house! Get out, get out right this minute." Aunt Marge choose this moment to add in her two sense.
"You should call the bobby's on them. Just like this boy to bring more criminals into the house. You could always tell he was trouble. Just like his good for nothing parents." You could feel the temperature drop in the room. Even Vernon knew that was not the right thing to say in front of these people. His nephew was one thing, but these were fully grown wizards and Hagrid was more then intimidating. However Marge didn't recognize the icy stares she was now on the receiving end of.
"I told you that you should of just killed the runt when he was a baby and be done with it." That had pushed Remus to far, and with a flick of his wand Aunt Marge was no longer standing in the kitchen. In her place was a rather fat walrus that seemed to be very confused.
"You turn my sister back you freak, before I do call for help!" Remus gaze did not waver at the fat man who was now irately screaming before him.
"She'll turn back in a hour and be none the wiser, now you better leave before you spend the next hour as a cock roach." Vernon paled before grabbing his son and running from the kitchen. Harry turned to Remus and tried to suppress the smile that had been growing on his face.
"Now what were we talking about before we were rudely interrupted?" Harry snickered as he looked over to where the Walrus was now sleeping on the carpet.
Remus explained Dumbledore's plan to bring Harry with them to the giant's camp. Harry was quite excited at the prospect of getting to do something for the war, and he was more than willing to agree. At this point Harry would have agreed to going as a ambassador to the Dementor's as long as he was helping in some way.
"So, when do we leave?" Harry was already to get up and leave right then and there. Sensing the boy's excitement Remus answered his question.
"We leave tomorrow morning. We will be traveling to Diagon Alley to collect supplies today and then we will stay at the Leaky Cauldron where a Port key to the edge of Wizard territory will await us in the morning. Seeing that the Giant's are nomadic we will be forced to travel on foot and by broom from there to locate them. The Headmaster has arranged that after we leave Wizard territory you will be allowed to use magic so you will need your wand. Madame Maxime will meet us at the Port key point in the morning." Remus gave Harry a camping pack and instructed him to fetch clothes and anything he would need, including his broom. Harry was also informed that anything he didn't bring would be sent to Hogwarts.
"What about Ron and Hermione, what if they try to owl me while I'm away?" Harry was concerned about his friends being afraid for his disappearance.
"They have been told that you will be away and not to send you mail until they are told they can. We are going completely covertly. So no one will be able to find us except for the Headmaster and Fawkes. Other then that we will have no communication till we return." Harry nodded and then went to prepare his pack for the trip.
Harry choose to bring his invisibility cloak with him, just in case he needed it, then gathered his clothes and broom. After sealing his pack the rest of his belongings disappeared from his room. Then after saying good bye to Hedwig and promising to see her at the start of term he sent her off to Hogwart's as well.
Back in the kitchen Harry meet back up with Hagrid and Remus who were just standing to leave themselves.
"How are we traveling to Diagon Alley?" Harry wasn't sure if he wanted to see the fireplace blown up once more to make room for their exit.
"We have a Port Key which should take us out to Gringott's. Dumbledore has supplied us with funds for any necessities we will need. Now we should be off." With that the unusual group left Privet Drive for adventures untold. As they Port keyed away Harry realized just how weird their group was. A wizard in training, a half giant and a werewolf, and they were even headed to a bar. It sounded like the start of some very bad joke. Before he had time to laugh he felt the pull behind his navel that signified the Port key taking effect.
Harry landed in Diagon Alley still snickering over the irony of their group. It felt good to be back in the Wizarding world. He had actually missed his trip to Diagon Alley the year before. So he was glad to see the familiar shops that lined the alley once more. They first made their way to the Apothecary where they picked up many healing herbs for their trip as well as some poisons that they could use to kill animals for food without ruining the meet. After that they made there way to Flourish and Blott's were Remus picked up several books to help prepare Harry, as well as a few on giant customs so they could prepare for the meeting. They stopped at Madam Malkims so that Harry could pick up some sturdy traveling robes and some that were designed for free motion while fighting. After making a few more stops to pick up provisions they made their way to the Leaky Cauldron where they checked in for the night to rest for the journey that would begin the next day.
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Hermione Granger sat in a large comfy chair reading her History of Magic book to pass the time until dinner. She had received news that Harry would be unreachable for the rest of the summer, yet the reason why was not revealed. She had also received a letter from Professor Dumbledore that still made her chuckle at the thought of it. Reaching over to her desk she grabbed the letter again.
Dear Mrs. Granger,
It has come to my attention that you have come into possession of a rather unusual creature. If it is at all possible I would appreciate you sending me this very rare specimen. I do believe that it is the only example of a Beetle/Rat we have ever seen. You may send it back with this owl. I assure you that this specimen will be well taken care of and very useful to us in the future.
Sincerely Headmaster Dumbledore
Hermione still wasn't sure how he had come to the knowledge that she had captured Rita Skeeter, but she had promptly attached the jar with the unbreakable charm to the bird and sent it on it's way. This would surely teach that witch not to mess with a Granger ever again.
Hermione had been very worried about her friend Harry Potter, and now that she wasn't even sure of his location she was even more worried. Ron Weasley had sent her a letter that said he had no idea where Harry was as well. However he did say that Harry was doing something important for Dumbledore. Whatever it was she prayed that it wouldn't lead him into any danger. Little did she know that Harry would now be on a collision course with one of the first major battles in these dark times. For now she could only pray for his safety.
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Lord Voldemort stood in his throne room in the newly risen Dark Castle. He had a very pleasing day, and expected to have more to come. He had made the call for his Dementor's and told them to remain where they were for now. He also had one of his faithful return to his fold, as well as one who had betrayed him. Now before he retired he had one more piece of business to attend to.
"Wormtail, come before me now!" A balding man walked before the form of the Dark Lord and then fell to his knees in supplication.
"How might I serve you master?" Peter remained on his knees before his masters throne.
"You will take several of my new servants as well as some of my followers and travel to the giant's to extend my hand once more to them. I believe that fool Dumbledore will attempt to reach them first so I want you to track down those he sends and kill them. The giants have become reclusive so even I know not where they are. After you destroy Dumbledore's envoy you will have to track them down for yourselves. Pray you do not fail me." Voldemort's voice was icy and cared with it death threats that one wouldn't doubt he would carry out.
"Yes my Lord, When do you wish me to leave?" Wormtail remained in his prostrated position.
"You will leave after the death of Karkaroff, I want you there to witness this event. Now leave me in peace." Voldemort made a gesture with his hand and Wormtail backed out of the room. Never allowing his head to raise to meet his masters eyes.
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A/N: Another Chapter done! REJOICE, yes go me. Anyway hope you liked it! Look for the First week of Harry's journey next chapter, as well as Snape's attempt to make Karkaroff's death a peaceful one, also we see what's happening with Arthur Weasley and Minister Fudge, not to mention Brin and Sirius begin to gather scattered forces, we should see Dumbledore exerting some force over Rita as well and possibly we'll see Wormtail closing in on our intrepid adventurers. Thnx to those who read and reviewed. And look for the next chapter around Wednesday maybe earlier but that would be the latest. Depending on if I add anything to the next chapter.
R/R please, as it makes me write happier.
