Harry Potter and the Eye of Tae Nan
By Kyizi
Disclaimer: I own none of the main characters and only a few of the minor ones. J.K. Rowling created these characters, and as far as I know, they are still her property. Only the story is mine.
Rating: If you can read the books then you can read this.
Timeline/Spoilers: Starts in the summer holidays after the fourth book and will continue through Harry's fifth year at Hogwarts. Therefore, there will be spoilers for all four books.
Notes: I'm attempting to write this in the same style as J.K. Rowling writes the books. I'm basically trying to write, in essence the next book. Well, where my imagination takes it at least! I realise that to do what she will is an impossibility, but I'm just having a bit of fun and *need* to get this out of my head! You may notice that a lot of the first chapter will simple rehash the last book, but as I'm planning on integrating it all into my story, I felt it needed to be done.
Summary: Harry and his friends are back at Hogwarts for their fifth year. But with Voldemort back, what lengths will they have to go to to protect the ones they love? Cemara stones, Atlantis, interschool exchanges and Animagi, what can possibly go wrong.?
Feedback: Please let me know how I'm doing as I'm attempting a completely different style and pointers, praise, tips and ideas are all welcome, as is constructive criticism. Please send no flames.
Email address: kyizifanfic@hotmail.com
Yahoo Group:
Notes: A big thanks to my betas Heliona and Loriel who spent ages trawling through this! Love ya! *mwah*
NB: if you've read chapters 1 to 3 before, you might want to reread them, they're been completely redone! Most of the old stuff is still there, but it's definitely not the same by a long shot!
~x~x~x~x~x~
Part Four
The Familiar Stranger
~x~x~x~x~x~
Harry's time at The Burrow seemed to fly by. His days were filled with endless Quidditch and chess, even a few trips to Diagon Alley, but before he knew it, the beginning of the school year was fast approaching. Since his arrival, life at The Burrow had returned to normal, and was fairly quiet, well, as quiet as life with the Weasleys could be, and Harry noticed that no one had even made a mention of Ginny's fiery behaviour, although it was not difficult to see that the twins were still keeping their distance. For her part, the youngest Weasley seemed to have retreated into herself since his birthday dinner, and was being more shy and even quieter than Harry had ever seen her, and he wasn't sure that he liked it at all.
Every day that passed seemed to weigh more on Harry's mind. He had been only been at the Weasleys' for a few days before he realised that there was something that they weren't telling him, and not just him, Ron, Ginny and the twins seemed to be in the dark as well. Every night Mr. Weasley and Percy came home from work with the same look in their eyes as Charlie and Bill. It was something that no one seemed willing to talk about and Harry knew it was something to do with Voldemort. It was only through Hermione's letters that they knew anything. From what she had read in the Daily Prophet, there had been regular attacks throughout the world, but mostly concentrated in England and mostly concentrated on Muggles. The ministry was, of course, denying that the attacks were anything to do with "You Know Who", and all reports of death eater attacks were exaggerated. For some reason, things had subsided over the last few weeks and no one was sure what that meant.
Something else that was heavy on Harry's mind, was that his nightmares had stopped. There was nothing, not even a twinge in his forehead, and yet he knew from Mr. Weasley's brief accounts to the family that Voldemort was definitely on the move. The Ministry of Magic (who Mr. Weasley worked for) still refused to acknowledge that Voldemort was back and were brushing over the recurring Death Eater attacks as unrelated. It worried him, but he had yet to mention it to Ron or his family. He felt extremely uncomfortable whenever there was more news of attacks, for the entire family would fix him with a sympathetic gaze, assuming that he had been subject to more nightmares. In spite of this, Harry was trying to remain upbeat, his only thought that he did not have to see the Dursleys for another year, and that was really enough to make anyone happy.
Harry groaned as Ron's clock yelled at him to get out of bed. Yawning and stretching, he forced himself to open his eyes and sit up, pulling his glasses on as he did. Taking a quick look around the room, he noted that Ron was no longer in his bed and, for once, it was neatly made. In fact, looking around the room, he could see that the entire room was neat and tidy. Frowning, he pulled off the covers and stood up, risking a glace in the mirror.
"And frown you should," his reflection said with disdain. "Take a good look at yourself, young man. You're a mess! If I were you, I'd go and make myself presentable before that girl arrives. But of course I'm not you, I'm only."
Harry rolled his eyes and headed towards the bathroom, thankful that the mirror had at least reminded him of Hermione's arrival this afternoon. He smiled as he suddenly realised the reason for the tidiness of Ron's room. Shaking his head, he fumbled for a towel in the small cupboard on one of the house's landings. He closed the door and turned, colliding into someone with a small thud. Suddenly alert, his eyes widened at the small yelp Ginny made when connecting with the floor.
"Oh! I'm sorry." He stood still for a moment, still half asleep. Shaking himself awake, he timidly extended a hand. "Are.are you all right?" Ginny blushed and nodded, slowly reaching out to let Harry pull her up. Harry cleared his throat. "I.er, I should pay more attention to where I'm going."
Ginny shook her head. "Well, you're not the only one." She smiled softly and headed down the stairs.
Harry frowned after her, still unable to believe that she was the same Ginny that he had seen glowing red with rage in the Weasleys' garden a few weeks ago. He shook his head and walked towards the bathroom, dreading the rest of a day he would normally enjoy. Today he would have to go into Diagon Alley for school supplies, which meant he was closer to heading back to Hogwarts.which meant he'd have to face the reality that Voldemort was indeed alive, and they were at war.
*
Diagon Alley was bustling with students and parents alike. There were crowds of people in the streets, large groups and friends reuniting after a summer apart. The shops were full of people, buying for their next year at Hogwarts as animals screeched about them.
Large groups of people were moving to and from Flourish and Blotts as the release of the new book by Tadhg Sinclair drew in large crowds. The young man, having recently finished a stint working with the Aurors in Azkaban, had published a book which was selling quicker than it could be restocked, as people wanted any kind of reassurance that the wizarding world was safe, even if it was only a small part of it.
The rumours that were circulating about Voldemort's return were unnerving everyone, even those who refused to believe that they were, in fact, true. Any reminder of the Dark Lord was something that people did not want to be faced with, and so, when Harry and the Weasleys had entered Diagon Alley, people were quick to stare, but anxious to leave them alone.
Hermione smiled and turned to the others, running a hand through her straight brown hair. As a present for doing so well at school, Hermione's parents had given her a magical hair serum to straighten her messy locks and she had decided to try it out before school, with great effect. Added to the fact that her teeth were no longer too big, she didn't mind admitting that she looked rather nice. Not that she particularly cared about her appearance, she just happened to like the look on Ron's face when he had seen her.
She shook her head and sighed at her friends. They were standing outside Quality Quidditch Supplies, the best broom shop in the area. Quidditch was the most popular Wizarding sport and while Harry was already on their House team at Hogwarts, Ron was hoping to try out for the newly available position of Keeper when they returned to school.
The first thing they had spotted was the latest Firebolt. Although not much different to Harry's broomstick, the Firebolt Gateway had an improved handling capability that allowed the owner an even smoother, faster flight. Needless to say, Ron was in awe of the broom and annoyed at the price.
"Right," Hermione said, and the others forced their attention from the shop window. "The first thing we need to do is decide which extra courses we're taking this year, because we'll need to get the supplies and books for them. Now I was thinking of."
"Extra courses?" Ron asked incredulously, stopping in his tracks. "Honestly, you'd think they wanted to work us into the ground. Bloody school!"
"Really, Ron. Haven't you read your letter?" Hermione asked, her frown aimed not only Ron, but Harry and Ginny also. They had been standing at the same end of Diagon Alley for over half an hour, having left the others to go about their shopping. Mrs. Weasley had requested that Ginny accompany them, but the youngest Weasley had simply stood next to them in silence, knowing that she would mostly be using the books and supplies handed down to her from Ron and her older brothers. However, even she had admired the new broom.
Harry glanced at Ginny, but she seemed slightly preoccupied. Part of him wanted to ask her what was wrong, but he didn't really know her well enough to do that. Harry shook his head, turning back to look at Hermione, trying to remain focussed as she read aloud her letter.
"All students will require a copy of The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 5 by Miranda Goshawk," she began, and Harry smothered a laugh as Ron rolled his eyes, only stopping on receiving a sharp glare from Hermione. "Students will also require a second cauldron, and their Cemara stone. Then it ."
"A what stone?" Harry asked, frowning.
"A Cemara stone," Ron said. "It's a powerful gem or mineral. Each wizard or witch has a different stone. It's attuned to your magical abilities. You can spend your whole life looking for the right one. Although most people born around the same time of year have the same type of stone."
Hermione nodded. "It's where Muggles get birth stones from. You can use them to help with specialised spells." She smiled at him. "Most wizards and witches are given them at birth as a gift from their godparents. I haven't got one though because my godparents were Muggles and no one really knew I was a witch."
Harry frowned. "I guess I don't have one anymore.it must have been destroyed or lost."
There was an uncomfortable silence. Harry noticed Ron and Hermione glance sidelong at each other, both unsure what they should say, both knowing that he was thinking of his parents' death.
Suddenly Ginny asked, "I left my letter at home, what were the extra subjects again?"
Smiling at her in relief, Hermione looked once more at her letter. "Well, it lists the books we'll need for our other classes. Then it says, 'Students entering fourth to seventh year will be offered the following optional extras (at least one must be taken).'"
"One must be taken? Some option," Ron muttered.
Hermione shook her head and continued. "There are six classes on option. 'More Medicine: Learn to improve your basic medical spells and train yourself further in medical magic.' Requires: Medical Miracles, Learning to Heal, by Needa Bandayd. 'Advanced Protection: Brush up on you protective spells and learn the more complicated defensive arts.' Requires: Spells and Charms for the Ultimate Protection, by Iywil Wotchova. 'Higher Level Charm Breaking: Learn the more complicated charm breaking and improve your own thinking skills.' Requires: Let Me In! by Ive Charisma. 'Advanced Potions: Learn more the more complex potions to help you with any problems.' Requires: Brew Me A Future, by Conn Cocshon. 'Dragon Magick: Learn how these magickal creatures can help your abilities.' Requires: Dancing With Dragons, by Draco Jive Conway and finally, 'Archaeology and Ancient History: Learn how to search for and find ancient treasures long lost.' Requires: The Search For the Past, by Bee Hynd."
"Well, that last one will be right up your alley, Gin." The youngest Weasley blushed and turned away as Ron grinned. "Think I'll do Dragon Magick myself. What about you, Harry?"
"I think I've done enough dancing with dragons, thanks," Harry said with a slight shudder. "I think I might do Advanced Protection. Hermione?"
Ron snorted. "Why bother asking, she'll be doing them all."
Hermione glared at Ron before replying, "Actually, I have no intention of doing Dragon Magick, but, yes. I plan to do the others."
"Are you mad?" Ron asked incredulously, despite the fact that he had more or less suspected she would be doing the others. "Advanced Potions? With Snape?"
"Well, it's not exactly my choice who teaches the courses. Honestly, Ron," Hermione admonished. "I think all the courses will come in rather handy. It would really have been helpful over the last four years if at least one of us had basic medical training."
Harry nodded, although the idea of learning about bones, and blood, and the inner workings of his body really did make him feel rather nauseous. If it was inside his body, he wasn't meant to see it and therefore how it worked did not really interest him - unless of course it wasn't working properly, then he might need to know.
"I think Hermione's right."
"Isn't she always?" Ron muttered, but he quickly shut up when he saw the hurt look that momentarily crossed Hermione's face.
"I think I might do Medicine as well," Harry finished.
Ron groaned and rolled his eyes. "I guess it would help. Okay, I'm in."
With that settled, Hermione nodded and began to lead the way towards Flourish and Blotts. Almost as an afterthought, she turned to Ginny, beckoning the younger girl to catch up with her.
"What about you, Ginny? The classes are for fourth to seventh years and they're taught in Houses, so you'd be in our classes."
The younger Weasley blushed slightly, seemingly embarrassed that everyone's attention was currently on her. "I, I don't know," she said softly. "I'll look at the books and think about it."
Hermione raised her eyebrows a little, but said nothing more about the subject as her attention was quickly focussed on something else. Her eyes lit up as she led them down a small alley that led off just opposite the small second-hand broom shop. The street sign was dirty and hung limply on one hook, making a slight squeak as the gentle wind battered it against the wall. Harry squinted but was finally able to make out the words stating that they were on Peridot Lane.
Leading them through the narrow pass, she cautiously peered into a shop window, holding her hand above her eyes as if trying to determine whether or not the shop was open. Harry frowned and looked at Ron, who shrugged. He had no idea where their friend was leading them and it seemed that Ron didn't know either.
"Eh, Hermione?"
"This is it," she said, a small smile of satisfaction lighting up her face. "Come on."
Without further explanation, or even waiting for a reply, she turned into the shop and opened the door as quietly as she could, the tinkling of the bell seeming to send out some sort of warm magical welcome.
Turning to look at Ron and Ginny, Harry shrugged and the three of them followed Hermione into the shop. On entering, Harry's first impression was like that of Olivanders. He didn't know what it was, but there was something strangely welcoming and undeniably intense about the shop. It was dully lit, and there was the occasional cobweb in the high corners of the ceiling, but despite that, the shop seemed well cared for and clean.
Harry's attention was divided. Before him was a large glass cabinet about waist height that spread the entire length of the shop. There was another behind him, as well as one at the back. The three cabinets sectioned off the customers into a small area, with another cabinet down the middle of the shop, leaving the area behind the three at the edges for larger cabinets that filled the entire length and height of the walls, as well as leaving a small corridor of passage for the elderly man that was speaking in soft tones to Hermione.
The layout of the shop reminded Harry of a Muggle jewellery shop, although he had never been in one, he had seen some on some of the films Dudley had watched growing up. Harry felt himself being pulled towards a particular section of the cabinet filled with red stones. It was a strange feeling, something that he couldn't really explain. He found himself looking at the cut of the stones, watching the way the light played against them, but none in particular held his attention. He felt strangely at peace.
"Ah, Mr. Potter, how nice to see you again."
Harry looked up at the small man that was standing behind the counter. The man was not that much smaller than him, but Harry felt as if he were towering over him. The man's grey hair was sticking up at odd angles and his orange eyes sparkled up at Harry through green square rimmed glasses.
"I'm sorry," Harry said, frowning. "Do I know you?"
"Ah, that is a simple question. Easy to ask, not so easy to answer."
Harry's frown deepened, and he cast a slight glance at the others, who looked as baffled as Harry felt. He turned back to the man, and squinted a little. There was something odd, he knew he had never met the man before, but at the same time there was something mysteriously familiar and comforting about him. For someone so seemingly small, the man cast a large presence, and Harry instantly felt as if he were engulfed by it.
"What do you mean?" he asked, feeling as if he really didn't have the right to question the man.
"I remember you like it was yesterday. You came in with the handsome young man and the little brunette, all cuddled up warm in your blanket." The man paused a moment, before grinning madly. "A little terror you were! Had your poor godparents running about after you." The man shook his head as he took a trip back in time and Harry listened intently, anxious for any information on his past, any small piece of family he could find from a time he was loved.
"Just as well this place is child proof. Needs to be really, with all these children coming in for their stones." He sighed and looked down at his gnarled cane for a moment. "Those were the better days. Don't get so much business now that the pretty little new age shop opened at the far end of The Alley."
Harry fought off a smile at the way the man said the words 'The Alley', as if it were an encampment of enemy spies that should be destroyed. Still listening, Harry followed the man as he walked around to the cabinet at the back of the shop, where Hermione was standing, also listening to the tale the man was telling.
"I still remember the mess you could have made if that cabinet had toppled. I still have no idea how you managed to put your hand though that glass!"
"I put - I put my hand through glass?" he asked, his eyes widening.
The old man chuckled and continued. "You certainly did. I can still see the shock on young Madeline's face when you pulled up that stone and said, 'Mine'. Oh, Mr. Black just laughed and said you would turn out just like your father, but that Madeline was a worrier, had you off that floor quicker than you can say trouble."
Harry frowned. "Madeline? Who was she?"
The man sighed and Harry watched as a shadow cast over his face. "Damn shame that was. That little girl was head over heels. Almost destroyed her, it did. She lost your parents and the love of her life all in one day." He shook his head. "Damn shame. She was broken, they say. Ran off, couldn't believe her Sirius had done what they said he'd done. Didn't believe it myself, still don't."
He looked up at Harry a fierce power in his eyes. "You listen to me, young Harry. That man was as loving a friend as he was a godfather and I don't believe a word of what they say. It was the day that they were in here with you that it all happened. And I was out there later that night as well, I saw it with my own eyes, but I don't believe it for a second."
He sighed. "And your godmother? Well, she was a lovely girl, but losing them all, she couldn't handle it. She might've thought she lost you as well, that's my theory. Ran off the minute everyone heard, and you know the first reports said you were gone too. Destroyed. The entire family gone and Mr. Black to blame. Those were dark times. And that dark cloud's coming again, Mr. Potter, you watch out, you hear? And mark my words, because Matthew Marks is never wrong about dark times," he said grimly. He took a moment before shaking his head and winking at them. "Shame really, I can always see the dark times, but I never know when to place a bet on the Quidditch Cup!"
Harry nodded, still in shock. It had never really occurred to him that he might have a godmother. Sirius was all that he'd ever known about and, along with Professor Lupin all that he'd really cared about over the last two years. Sirius was his only family and now, to hear about this Madeline, who was supposedly not only his godmother, but from what it sounded like, in love with Sirius. He frowned, thinking more than ever how much he wanted to talk to his godfather, or get a message to him. Ginny was the last person he knew about that had had contact with Sirius now that Charlie and Bill had gone again, but he still wasn't comfortable talking to her.
He sighed, and glanced again at the stones in the cabinet on his right. Although he still felt drawn to him, they held less appeal now that he knew he had had one of his own. He just didn't understand what he was meant to do now. Should he purchase another stone? He turned to the man prepared to ask him what to do when the man spoke first.
"It wouldn't be of any use, Mr. Potter."
"Sorry?" Harry asked, a little confused.
Mr. Marks' eyes twinkled a little. "Another stone wouldn't be of any use to you. You need one that is in magical alignment with you and I have nothing here for you." At Harry's look, he smiled warmly. "It'll turn up, don't fret."
Harry cast one more glance at the cabinet and nodded, a part of him wondering if he would ever fit in to the magical world. There was always something that seemed out of place, something new he discovered that stopped him from fitting in. He was likely to be the only one without a Cemara stone and that wasn't something he was looking forward to.
"And I remember this little one as well. How could I forget?"
Harry turned just in time to see Ginny's face turn bright red. It was as if someone was colouring her in from the top of her head and filling it down in bright scarlet.
"Now you, young lady, made more of a fuss in here than I've ever seen." He smiled at Ginny and walked over to the cabinet on the other side of the room, stepping out of a small gap and into the main customer area. He walked to the cabinet in the centre of the room and Ginny followed, although Harry wasn't sure if it was of her own free will or because she could no longer stop herself moving towards the stones in the cabinet.
"October, if I recall?" When Ginny nodded and smiled and looked into the cabinet. "Opal is definitely my favourite," he winked at Ginny. "We definitely chose the right month to be born in, young one. You especially, came out three months early if I recall!"
Harry hadn't thought it possible, but Ginny's face continued to turn a darker shade of red every time Mr. Marks spoke. Intrigued by what he was learning about the youngest Weasley, he took a few steps closer to the cabinet, looking over at Ginny on the other side.
"I hear that brother of yours finally found his?" Ginny nodded and he smiled. "A crystallised dragon tear, I believe? Doesn't surprise me." He sighed and looked again at Ginny. "I still don't think we have anything for you, little dragon." Ginny's face almost exploded at that, and Harry smiled and turned to Ron, who was snickering.
"Charlie used to call her that when she was younger. He and Bill are her godparents, you know, an extra godfather instead of a godmother. Ginny was Charlie's favourite, because the two of them didn't have Cemara stones. Didn't want to be in the house when they were mad at the same time, especially if they were mad at each other!" Ron shuddered, then smiled. "He even dressed her up in a dragon suit at Halloween when she was little."
"Ron!" Harry instantly looked at Ginny, almost shocked to see how quick a transition she had made from shy and withdrawn to quick tempered. As if sensing his thoughts, Ginny quickly went quiet and seemed to shrink into herself again, looking into the cabinet in dismay.
"Now, now. I have never failed to find someone a stone, or at least point them in the right direction. It might be a long road, Miss Weasley, but you will get there. Your stone will bind your powers, and give you the control you need. It's different for Muggle born witches as you see in your friend here," he smiled at Hermione. "She's in control, doesn't need to be bonded at an early age. Mr. Potter was bonded but I'll bet if he's been away from his stone for a while, he's been able to do some fancy wandless magic when he was angry."
Harry frowned, thinking back to his ill-fated trip to the zoo before he had known who he really was. He had been so angry at Dudley that he hadn't even realised what had happened, even over the last few years, he had never thought much about it. But Mr. Marks was right; he had done some wandless magic when his temper got the better of him, like blowing up Uncle Vernon's sister. And if this was what he was like having been bonded with his Cemara stone, wherever it was, he couldn't even think about how it must be for Ginny.
"The youngest Mr. Weasley." He smiled at Ron. "Hope you haven't broken that small diamond of yours yet, or even worse, let those twin brothers of yours near it! That cost your parents a pretty penny, you take care of it."
Ron turned scarlet at the mention of his parent's money, knowing that his stone had been the most expensive of the family. Including the combined prices of the twins. And he didn't like to think that his parents could have been better off if they hadn't had to buy it.
"Now, young lady, you don't have a stone yet, I believe," Mr Marks said, turning to Hermione. "September? Another reason you're so clear of thought and in control, I imagine."
"Y-Yes," Hermione said, a little started at the correct guess of her birth month.
"The Sapphire, one of the most beautiful of stones, definitely a favourite!"
"I think I've already spotted my."
"This one, I believe?" Mr. Marks had opened the cabinet and was presenting Hermione with a small light blue stone, one that rested gently on his palm on a piece of silk cloth.
"Yes!" Hermione reached out for the stone, picking it off the cloth. As soon as the stone came into contact with her hand, a brilliant blue light, emanating from Hermione's hand, lit the shop. The light grew steadily smaller until it encompassed only Hermione in an aura of radiant blue. "I'll take it," she said with a smile, picking the silk cloth from Mr. Marks' hand and wrapping her stone up.
Mr Marks nodded and, careful not to touch the stone itself, he picked it up from Hermione's hand and placed it into a small cloth pouch, which he pulled shut with a thin rope at either side. Moving to the cash register, Mr. Marks rung up Hermione's purchase and the four of them prepared to leave, waving goodbye to the old man before moving to the door.
Out of the corner of his eye, something caught Harry's attention, but he wasn't quite sure what it was. The purple paper fluttered in the breeze as Ron opened the door, the bell singing out it's melody in a sweet magical tone and, before he could think about it any more, they were back on Diagon Alley preparing to get ready for school, and, despite his slight dread at living with the reality of the war, Harry felt the excitement of returning to Hogwarts rising in his stomach with every step.
~x~x~x~x~x~
End of Part Four
What'll happen when the gang gets back to Hogwarts? What is Voldemort up to? Will Ginny and Harry find their Cemara stones? What about an exchange to Durmstrang and Beauxbatons? And what about Animagi?
You'll have to wait for the next chapter to find out anything!
Any and all feedback is welcome! Constructive criticism or just a wee hello is always appreciated. I hope you all liked and I hope you'll continue to read.
The book "Dancing With Dragons" is a real Muggle book! ;-p It is written by someone called D.J. Conway, but I did make up his first names. I may use quotes from this book in future parts.
By Kyizi
Disclaimer: I own none of the main characters and only a few of the minor ones. J.K. Rowling created these characters, and as far as I know, they are still her property. Only the story is mine.
Rating: If you can read the books then you can read this.
Timeline/Spoilers: Starts in the summer holidays after the fourth book and will continue through Harry's fifth year at Hogwarts. Therefore, there will be spoilers for all four books.
Notes: I'm attempting to write this in the same style as J.K. Rowling writes the books. I'm basically trying to write, in essence the next book. Well, where my imagination takes it at least! I realise that to do what she will is an impossibility, but I'm just having a bit of fun and *need* to get this out of my head! You may notice that a lot of the first chapter will simple rehash the last book, but as I'm planning on integrating it all into my story, I felt it needed to be done.
Summary: Harry and his friends are back at Hogwarts for their fifth year. But with Voldemort back, what lengths will they have to go to to protect the ones they love? Cemara stones, Atlantis, interschool exchanges and Animagi, what can possibly go wrong.?
Feedback: Please let me know how I'm doing as I'm attempting a completely different style and pointers, praise, tips and ideas are all welcome, as is constructive criticism. Please send no flames.
Email address: kyizifanfic@hotmail.com
Yahoo Group:
Notes: A big thanks to my betas Heliona and Loriel who spent ages trawling through this! Love ya! *mwah*
NB: if you've read chapters 1 to 3 before, you might want to reread them, they're been completely redone! Most of the old stuff is still there, but it's definitely not the same by a long shot!
~x~x~x~x~x~
Part Four
The Familiar Stranger
~x~x~x~x~x~
Harry's time at The Burrow seemed to fly by. His days were filled with endless Quidditch and chess, even a few trips to Diagon Alley, but before he knew it, the beginning of the school year was fast approaching. Since his arrival, life at The Burrow had returned to normal, and was fairly quiet, well, as quiet as life with the Weasleys could be, and Harry noticed that no one had even made a mention of Ginny's fiery behaviour, although it was not difficult to see that the twins were still keeping their distance. For her part, the youngest Weasley seemed to have retreated into herself since his birthday dinner, and was being more shy and even quieter than Harry had ever seen her, and he wasn't sure that he liked it at all.
Every day that passed seemed to weigh more on Harry's mind. He had been only been at the Weasleys' for a few days before he realised that there was something that they weren't telling him, and not just him, Ron, Ginny and the twins seemed to be in the dark as well. Every night Mr. Weasley and Percy came home from work with the same look in their eyes as Charlie and Bill. It was something that no one seemed willing to talk about and Harry knew it was something to do with Voldemort. It was only through Hermione's letters that they knew anything. From what she had read in the Daily Prophet, there had been regular attacks throughout the world, but mostly concentrated in England and mostly concentrated on Muggles. The ministry was, of course, denying that the attacks were anything to do with "You Know Who", and all reports of death eater attacks were exaggerated. For some reason, things had subsided over the last few weeks and no one was sure what that meant.
Something else that was heavy on Harry's mind, was that his nightmares had stopped. There was nothing, not even a twinge in his forehead, and yet he knew from Mr. Weasley's brief accounts to the family that Voldemort was definitely on the move. The Ministry of Magic (who Mr. Weasley worked for) still refused to acknowledge that Voldemort was back and were brushing over the recurring Death Eater attacks as unrelated. It worried him, but he had yet to mention it to Ron or his family. He felt extremely uncomfortable whenever there was more news of attacks, for the entire family would fix him with a sympathetic gaze, assuming that he had been subject to more nightmares. In spite of this, Harry was trying to remain upbeat, his only thought that he did not have to see the Dursleys for another year, and that was really enough to make anyone happy.
Harry groaned as Ron's clock yelled at him to get out of bed. Yawning and stretching, he forced himself to open his eyes and sit up, pulling his glasses on as he did. Taking a quick look around the room, he noted that Ron was no longer in his bed and, for once, it was neatly made. In fact, looking around the room, he could see that the entire room was neat and tidy. Frowning, he pulled off the covers and stood up, risking a glace in the mirror.
"And frown you should," his reflection said with disdain. "Take a good look at yourself, young man. You're a mess! If I were you, I'd go and make myself presentable before that girl arrives. But of course I'm not you, I'm only."
Harry rolled his eyes and headed towards the bathroom, thankful that the mirror had at least reminded him of Hermione's arrival this afternoon. He smiled as he suddenly realised the reason for the tidiness of Ron's room. Shaking his head, he fumbled for a towel in the small cupboard on one of the house's landings. He closed the door and turned, colliding into someone with a small thud. Suddenly alert, his eyes widened at the small yelp Ginny made when connecting with the floor.
"Oh! I'm sorry." He stood still for a moment, still half asleep. Shaking himself awake, he timidly extended a hand. "Are.are you all right?" Ginny blushed and nodded, slowly reaching out to let Harry pull her up. Harry cleared his throat. "I.er, I should pay more attention to where I'm going."
Ginny shook her head. "Well, you're not the only one." She smiled softly and headed down the stairs.
Harry frowned after her, still unable to believe that she was the same Ginny that he had seen glowing red with rage in the Weasleys' garden a few weeks ago. He shook his head and walked towards the bathroom, dreading the rest of a day he would normally enjoy. Today he would have to go into Diagon Alley for school supplies, which meant he was closer to heading back to Hogwarts.which meant he'd have to face the reality that Voldemort was indeed alive, and they were at war.
*
Diagon Alley was bustling with students and parents alike. There were crowds of people in the streets, large groups and friends reuniting after a summer apart. The shops were full of people, buying for their next year at Hogwarts as animals screeched about them.
Large groups of people were moving to and from Flourish and Blotts as the release of the new book by Tadhg Sinclair drew in large crowds. The young man, having recently finished a stint working with the Aurors in Azkaban, had published a book which was selling quicker than it could be restocked, as people wanted any kind of reassurance that the wizarding world was safe, even if it was only a small part of it.
The rumours that were circulating about Voldemort's return were unnerving everyone, even those who refused to believe that they were, in fact, true. Any reminder of the Dark Lord was something that people did not want to be faced with, and so, when Harry and the Weasleys had entered Diagon Alley, people were quick to stare, but anxious to leave them alone.
Hermione smiled and turned to the others, running a hand through her straight brown hair. As a present for doing so well at school, Hermione's parents had given her a magical hair serum to straighten her messy locks and she had decided to try it out before school, with great effect. Added to the fact that her teeth were no longer too big, she didn't mind admitting that she looked rather nice. Not that she particularly cared about her appearance, she just happened to like the look on Ron's face when he had seen her.
She shook her head and sighed at her friends. They were standing outside Quality Quidditch Supplies, the best broom shop in the area. Quidditch was the most popular Wizarding sport and while Harry was already on their House team at Hogwarts, Ron was hoping to try out for the newly available position of Keeper when they returned to school.
The first thing they had spotted was the latest Firebolt. Although not much different to Harry's broomstick, the Firebolt Gateway had an improved handling capability that allowed the owner an even smoother, faster flight. Needless to say, Ron was in awe of the broom and annoyed at the price.
"Right," Hermione said, and the others forced their attention from the shop window. "The first thing we need to do is decide which extra courses we're taking this year, because we'll need to get the supplies and books for them. Now I was thinking of."
"Extra courses?" Ron asked incredulously, stopping in his tracks. "Honestly, you'd think they wanted to work us into the ground. Bloody school!"
"Really, Ron. Haven't you read your letter?" Hermione asked, her frown aimed not only Ron, but Harry and Ginny also. They had been standing at the same end of Diagon Alley for over half an hour, having left the others to go about their shopping. Mrs. Weasley had requested that Ginny accompany them, but the youngest Weasley had simply stood next to them in silence, knowing that she would mostly be using the books and supplies handed down to her from Ron and her older brothers. However, even she had admired the new broom.
Harry glanced at Ginny, but she seemed slightly preoccupied. Part of him wanted to ask her what was wrong, but he didn't really know her well enough to do that. Harry shook his head, turning back to look at Hermione, trying to remain focussed as she read aloud her letter.
"All students will require a copy of The Standard Book of Spells, Grade 5 by Miranda Goshawk," she began, and Harry smothered a laugh as Ron rolled his eyes, only stopping on receiving a sharp glare from Hermione. "Students will also require a second cauldron, and their Cemara stone. Then it ."
"A what stone?" Harry asked, frowning.
"A Cemara stone," Ron said. "It's a powerful gem or mineral. Each wizard or witch has a different stone. It's attuned to your magical abilities. You can spend your whole life looking for the right one. Although most people born around the same time of year have the same type of stone."
Hermione nodded. "It's where Muggles get birth stones from. You can use them to help with specialised spells." She smiled at him. "Most wizards and witches are given them at birth as a gift from their godparents. I haven't got one though because my godparents were Muggles and no one really knew I was a witch."
Harry frowned. "I guess I don't have one anymore.it must have been destroyed or lost."
There was an uncomfortable silence. Harry noticed Ron and Hermione glance sidelong at each other, both unsure what they should say, both knowing that he was thinking of his parents' death.
Suddenly Ginny asked, "I left my letter at home, what were the extra subjects again?"
Smiling at her in relief, Hermione looked once more at her letter. "Well, it lists the books we'll need for our other classes. Then it says, 'Students entering fourth to seventh year will be offered the following optional extras (at least one must be taken).'"
"One must be taken? Some option," Ron muttered.
Hermione shook her head and continued. "There are six classes on option. 'More Medicine: Learn to improve your basic medical spells and train yourself further in medical magic.' Requires: Medical Miracles, Learning to Heal, by Needa Bandayd. 'Advanced Protection: Brush up on you protective spells and learn the more complicated defensive arts.' Requires: Spells and Charms for the Ultimate Protection, by Iywil Wotchova. 'Higher Level Charm Breaking: Learn the more complicated charm breaking and improve your own thinking skills.' Requires: Let Me In! by Ive Charisma. 'Advanced Potions: Learn more the more complex potions to help you with any problems.' Requires: Brew Me A Future, by Conn Cocshon. 'Dragon Magick: Learn how these magickal creatures can help your abilities.' Requires: Dancing With Dragons, by Draco Jive Conway and finally, 'Archaeology and Ancient History: Learn how to search for and find ancient treasures long lost.' Requires: The Search For the Past, by Bee Hynd."
"Well, that last one will be right up your alley, Gin." The youngest Weasley blushed and turned away as Ron grinned. "Think I'll do Dragon Magick myself. What about you, Harry?"
"I think I've done enough dancing with dragons, thanks," Harry said with a slight shudder. "I think I might do Advanced Protection. Hermione?"
Ron snorted. "Why bother asking, she'll be doing them all."
Hermione glared at Ron before replying, "Actually, I have no intention of doing Dragon Magick, but, yes. I plan to do the others."
"Are you mad?" Ron asked incredulously, despite the fact that he had more or less suspected she would be doing the others. "Advanced Potions? With Snape?"
"Well, it's not exactly my choice who teaches the courses. Honestly, Ron," Hermione admonished. "I think all the courses will come in rather handy. It would really have been helpful over the last four years if at least one of us had basic medical training."
Harry nodded, although the idea of learning about bones, and blood, and the inner workings of his body really did make him feel rather nauseous. If it was inside his body, he wasn't meant to see it and therefore how it worked did not really interest him - unless of course it wasn't working properly, then he might need to know.
"I think Hermione's right."
"Isn't she always?" Ron muttered, but he quickly shut up when he saw the hurt look that momentarily crossed Hermione's face.
"I think I might do Medicine as well," Harry finished.
Ron groaned and rolled his eyes. "I guess it would help. Okay, I'm in."
With that settled, Hermione nodded and began to lead the way towards Flourish and Blotts. Almost as an afterthought, she turned to Ginny, beckoning the younger girl to catch up with her.
"What about you, Ginny? The classes are for fourth to seventh years and they're taught in Houses, so you'd be in our classes."
The younger Weasley blushed slightly, seemingly embarrassed that everyone's attention was currently on her. "I, I don't know," she said softly. "I'll look at the books and think about it."
Hermione raised her eyebrows a little, but said nothing more about the subject as her attention was quickly focussed on something else. Her eyes lit up as she led them down a small alley that led off just opposite the small second-hand broom shop. The street sign was dirty and hung limply on one hook, making a slight squeak as the gentle wind battered it against the wall. Harry squinted but was finally able to make out the words stating that they were on Peridot Lane.
Leading them through the narrow pass, she cautiously peered into a shop window, holding her hand above her eyes as if trying to determine whether or not the shop was open. Harry frowned and looked at Ron, who shrugged. He had no idea where their friend was leading them and it seemed that Ron didn't know either.
"Eh, Hermione?"
"This is it," she said, a small smile of satisfaction lighting up her face. "Come on."
Without further explanation, or even waiting for a reply, she turned into the shop and opened the door as quietly as she could, the tinkling of the bell seeming to send out some sort of warm magical welcome.
Turning to look at Ron and Ginny, Harry shrugged and the three of them followed Hermione into the shop. On entering, Harry's first impression was like that of Olivanders. He didn't know what it was, but there was something strangely welcoming and undeniably intense about the shop. It was dully lit, and there was the occasional cobweb in the high corners of the ceiling, but despite that, the shop seemed well cared for and clean.
Harry's attention was divided. Before him was a large glass cabinet about waist height that spread the entire length of the shop. There was another behind him, as well as one at the back. The three cabinets sectioned off the customers into a small area, with another cabinet down the middle of the shop, leaving the area behind the three at the edges for larger cabinets that filled the entire length and height of the walls, as well as leaving a small corridor of passage for the elderly man that was speaking in soft tones to Hermione.
The layout of the shop reminded Harry of a Muggle jewellery shop, although he had never been in one, he had seen some on some of the films Dudley had watched growing up. Harry felt himself being pulled towards a particular section of the cabinet filled with red stones. It was a strange feeling, something that he couldn't really explain. He found himself looking at the cut of the stones, watching the way the light played against them, but none in particular held his attention. He felt strangely at peace.
"Ah, Mr. Potter, how nice to see you again."
Harry looked up at the small man that was standing behind the counter. The man was not that much smaller than him, but Harry felt as if he were towering over him. The man's grey hair was sticking up at odd angles and his orange eyes sparkled up at Harry through green square rimmed glasses.
"I'm sorry," Harry said, frowning. "Do I know you?"
"Ah, that is a simple question. Easy to ask, not so easy to answer."
Harry's frown deepened, and he cast a slight glance at the others, who looked as baffled as Harry felt. He turned back to the man, and squinted a little. There was something odd, he knew he had never met the man before, but at the same time there was something mysteriously familiar and comforting about him. For someone so seemingly small, the man cast a large presence, and Harry instantly felt as if he were engulfed by it.
"What do you mean?" he asked, feeling as if he really didn't have the right to question the man.
"I remember you like it was yesterday. You came in with the handsome young man and the little brunette, all cuddled up warm in your blanket." The man paused a moment, before grinning madly. "A little terror you were! Had your poor godparents running about after you." The man shook his head as he took a trip back in time and Harry listened intently, anxious for any information on his past, any small piece of family he could find from a time he was loved.
"Just as well this place is child proof. Needs to be really, with all these children coming in for their stones." He sighed and looked down at his gnarled cane for a moment. "Those were the better days. Don't get so much business now that the pretty little new age shop opened at the far end of The Alley."
Harry fought off a smile at the way the man said the words 'The Alley', as if it were an encampment of enemy spies that should be destroyed. Still listening, Harry followed the man as he walked around to the cabinet at the back of the shop, where Hermione was standing, also listening to the tale the man was telling.
"I still remember the mess you could have made if that cabinet had toppled. I still have no idea how you managed to put your hand though that glass!"
"I put - I put my hand through glass?" he asked, his eyes widening.
The old man chuckled and continued. "You certainly did. I can still see the shock on young Madeline's face when you pulled up that stone and said, 'Mine'. Oh, Mr. Black just laughed and said you would turn out just like your father, but that Madeline was a worrier, had you off that floor quicker than you can say trouble."
Harry frowned. "Madeline? Who was she?"
The man sighed and Harry watched as a shadow cast over his face. "Damn shame that was. That little girl was head over heels. Almost destroyed her, it did. She lost your parents and the love of her life all in one day." He shook his head. "Damn shame. She was broken, they say. Ran off, couldn't believe her Sirius had done what they said he'd done. Didn't believe it myself, still don't."
He looked up at Harry a fierce power in his eyes. "You listen to me, young Harry. That man was as loving a friend as he was a godfather and I don't believe a word of what they say. It was the day that they were in here with you that it all happened. And I was out there later that night as well, I saw it with my own eyes, but I don't believe it for a second."
He sighed. "And your godmother? Well, she was a lovely girl, but losing them all, she couldn't handle it. She might've thought she lost you as well, that's my theory. Ran off the minute everyone heard, and you know the first reports said you were gone too. Destroyed. The entire family gone and Mr. Black to blame. Those were dark times. And that dark cloud's coming again, Mr. Potter, you watch out, you hear? And mark my words, because Matthew Marks is never wrong about dark times," he said grimly. He took a moment before shaking his head and winking at them. "Shame really, I can always see the dark times, but I never know when to place a bet on the Quidditch Cup!"
Harry nodded, still in shock. It had never really occurred to him that he might have a godmother. Sirius was all that he'd ever known about and, along with Professor Lupin all that he'd really cared about over the last two years. Sirius was his only family and now, to hear about this Madeline, who was supposedly not only his godmother, but from what it sounded like, in love with Sirius. He frowned, thinking more than ever how much he wanted to talk to his godfather, or get a message to him. Ginny was the last person he knew about that had had contact with Sirius now that Charlie and Bill had gone again, but he still wasn't comfortable talking to her.
He sighed, and glanced again at the stones in the cabinet on his right. Although he still felt drawn to him, they held less appeal now that he knew he had had one of his own. He just didn't understand what he was meant to do now. Should he purchase another stone? He turned to the man prepared to ask him what to do when the man spoke first.
"It wouldn't be of any use, Mr. Potter."
"Sorry?" Harry asked, a little confused.
Mr. Marks' eyes twinkled a little. "Another stone wouldn't be of any use to you. You need one that is in magical alignment with you and I have nothing here for you." At Harry's look, he smiled warmly. "It'll turn up, don't fret."
Harry cast one more glance at the cabinet and nodded, a part of him wondering if he would ever fit in to the magical world. There was always something that seemed out of place, something new he discovered that stopped him from fitting in. He was likely to be the only one without a Cemara stone and that wasn't something he was looking forward to.
"And I remember this little one as well. How could I forget?"
Harry turned just in time to see Ginny's face turn bright red. It was as if someone was colouring her in from the top of her head and filling it down in bright scarlet.
"Now you, young lady, made more of a fuss in here than I've ever seen." He smiled at Ginny and walked over to the cabinet on the other side of the room, stepping out of a small gap and into the main customer area. He walked to the cabinet in the centre of the room and Ginny followed, although Harry wasn't sure if it was of her own free will or because she could no longer stop herself moving towards the stones in the cabinet.
"October, if I recall?" When Ginny nodded and smiled and looked into the cabinet. "Opal is definitely my favourite," he winked at Ginny. "We definitely chose the right month to be born in, young one. You especially, came out three months early if I recall!"
Harry hadn't thought it possible, but Ginny's face continued to turn a darker shade of red every time Mr. Marks spoke. Intrigued by what he was learning about the youngest Weasley, he took a few steps closer to the cabinet, looking over at Ginny on the other side.
"I hear that brother of yours finally found his?" Ginny nodded and he smiled. "A crystallised dragon tear, I believe? Doesn't surprise me." He sighed and looked again at Ginny. "I still don't think we have anything for you, little dragon." Ginny's face almost exploded at that, and Harry smiled and turned to Ron, who was snickering.
"Charlie used to call her that when she was younger. He and Bill are her godparents, you know, an extra godfather instead of a godmother. Ginny was Charlie's favourite, because the two of them didn't have Cemara stones. Didn't want to be in the house when they were mad at the same time, especially if they were mad at each other!" Ron shuddered, then smiled. "He even dressed her up in a dragon suit at Halloween when she was little."
"Ron!" Harry instantly looked at Ginny, almost shocked to see how quick a transition she had made from shy and withdrawn to quick tempered. As if sensing his thoughts, Ginny quickly went quiet and seemed to shrink into herself again, looking into the cabinet in dismay.
"Now, now. I have never failed to find someone a stone, or at least point them in the right direction. It might be a long road, Miss Weasley, but you will get there. Your stone will bind your powers, and give you the control you need. It's different for Muggle born witches as you see in your friend here," he smiled at Hermione. "She's in control, doesn't need to be bonded at an early age. Mr. Potter was bonded but I'll bet if he's been away from his stone for a while, he's been able to do some fancy wandless magic when he was angry."
Harry frowned, thinking back to his ill-fated trip to the zoo before he had known who he really was. He had been so angry at Dudley that he hadn't even realised what had happened, even over the last few years, he had never thought much about it. But Mr. Marks was right; he had done some wandless magic when his temper got the better of him, like blowing up Uncle Vernon's sister. And if this was what he was like having been bonded with his Cemara stone, wherever it was, he couldn't even think about how it must be for Ginny.
"The youngest Mr. Weasley." He smiled at Ron. "Hope you haven't broken that small diamond of yours yet, or even worse, let those twin brothers of yours near it! That cost your parents a pretty penny, you take care of it."
Ron turned scarlet at the mention of his parent's money, knowing that his stone had been the most expensive of the family. Including the combined prices of the twins. And he didn't like to think that his parents could have been better off if they hadn't had to buy it.
"Now, young lady, you don't have a stone yet, I believe," Mr Marks said, turning to Hermione. "September? Another reason you're so clear of thought and in control, I imagine."
"Y-Yes," Hermione said, a little started at the correct guess of her birth month.
"The Sapphire, one of the most beautiful of stones, definitely a favourite!"
"I think I've already spotted my."
"This one, I believe?" Mr. Marks had opened the cabinet and was presenting Hermione with a small light blue stone, one that rested gently on his palm on a piece of silk cloth.
"Yes!" Hermione reached out for the stone, picking it off the cloth. As soon as the stone came into contact with her hand, a brilliant blue light, emanating from Hermione's hand, lit the shop. The light grew steadily smaller until it encompassed only Hermione in an aura of radiant blue. "I'll take it," she said with a smile, picking the silk cloth from Mr. Marks' hand and wrapping her stone up.
Mr Marks nodded and, careful not to touch the stone itself, he picked it up from Hermione's hand and placed it into a small cloth pouch, which he pulled shut with a thin rope at either side. Moving to the cash register, Mr. Marks rung up Hermione's purchase and the four of them prepared to leave, waving goodbye to the old man before moving to the door.
Out of the corner of his eye, something caught Harry's attention, but he wasn't quite sure what it was. The purple paper fluttered in the breeze as Ron opened the door, the bell singing out it's melody in a sweet magical tone and, before he could think about it any more, they were back on Diagon Alley preparing to get ready for school, and, despite his slight dread at living with the reality of the war, Harry felt the excitement of returning to Hogwarts rising in his stomach with every step.
~x~x~x~x~x~
End of Part Four
What'll happen when the gang gets back to Hogwarts? What is Voldemort up to? Will Ginny and Harry find their Cemara stones? What about an exchange to Durmstrang and Beauxbatons? And what about Animagi?
You'll have to wait for the next chapter to find out anything!
Any and all feedback is welcome! Constructive criticism or just a wee hello is always appreciated. I hope you all liked and I hope you'll continue to read.
The book "Dancing With Dragons" is a real Muggle book! ;-p It is written by someone called D.J. Conway, but I did make up his first names. I may use quotes from this book in future parts.