DISCLAIMER: I own no characters (in this chapter) JKR is the only goddess
who could own them. I own the plot.
- CHAPTER TWO -
Lightening Speed
Petunia sat down slowly, sobbing hysterically at the sight of Dumbledore dirtying her usually normal dining room. If anyone happened to be looking in the windows of the Dursleys' house right now, they might think that this was a slightly unusual sight. An extremely old man, with long white hair and beard that drooped to below his belt was standing, offering a chair to a pale woman. He wore deep purple robes with yellow stars and moons dotting the fabric at random intervals. On the top of his pearly white crown, he wore a pointed wizard's hat, the same colour of his robes. His small, square spectacles sat on the tip of his long, crooked nose, a small smile played across his thin lips, and his eyes sparkled with delight. Next to this man, a boy sat gaping. His jet-black hair was a mess, his bright green eyes sparkled with joy at the sight of this tall, old man, and he wore pyjamas that were three sizes to big for him. A petrified woman with blond wispy hair sat next to the boy, her blue eyes brimming with unshed tears and her hands shaking with a mingled feeling of rage and fear. She seemed to have realised that the sight would be particularly degrading if one of the neighbours were to spy on her at this moment, so she stood, crossed the room in two large strides, and shut the curtains.
"Petunia, please calm yourself," Dumbledore spoke kindly to this woman, who moments earlier had insulted him. "I have come to inform you and your family of Harry's responsibilities during the school holidays, and your own responsibilities regarding Harry." Just then, a very angry Vernon Dursley entered the room, looking like he was about to explode, and Dudley followed in sheepishly after him, attempting to hide his bulk behind his father.
"WHAT IN THE NAME OF MERCY ARE YOU DOING IN MY HOUSE!" Vernon screamed.
"Ah, Vernon, please sit, and I will inform you of this." he paused searching for the right words. ".Delightful visit."
Harry was sure that Dumbledore had winked at him then.
"THIS VISIT IS NOT DELIGHTFUL! IT IS OUTRAGEOUS AND I WANT YOU TO LEAVE RIGHT NOW!" Harry thought that his uncle had a lot of nerve to talk to a wizard like this. Vernon was turning a lighter shade of puce, and looked as if he had just realised who he was talking to. Dumbledore seemed to grow six inches, and the room became slightly darker.
"Vernon Dursley! I do not wish to harm you! Please be seated so that I may talk to you in a civilised fashion!" Dumbledore spoke in a stage whisper, but his voice filled the entire room, and a slight echo could be heard. Vernon whimpered and sat down, Dudley cowered against the wall, and Petunia shrank behind Vernon. Harry looked dazed. The room lightened again, and for a moment Dumbledore became shrivelled and ancient.
"Now, what was I saying?" Dumbledore shook his head lightly. "Oh yes. Harry will be having Occlumency lessons throughout the summer, where he will be going to Mrs Figg's house and meeting either me, or another Professor from his school."
"Wait a moment," Petunia insisted. "Mrs Figg? Why there? She isn't. abnormal, is she?"
"She's a squib," Harry said. "A non-magical witch, Aunt Petunia."
"Yes," Dumbledore said. "Each night, Harry will be picked up by Remus Lupin, and taken to her house for one hour, and he will be delivered home by Remus or myself." The Dursleys nodded their heads, showing their understanding.
"I also would like to talk about the implications of Harry staying here. As long as Harry calls your house his home, your family and Harry himself are protected by the magic that Lily left inside of him. I told you about this fifteen years ago, Petunia, when you first took Harry in." At this piece of information, both Harry and his uncle wore faces of mixed confusion and curiosity. "I have been warned by Remus, and other wizards, that you are not treating Harry up to the standards he deserves. From now on, you will do so, otherwise Harry may choose to leave, and your family will be the next targeted by Lord Voldemort." Petunia blanched, and nodded her head numbly. After glancing at his wife, Vernon agreed with a grunt. Dudley just whimpered and clung to his mother.
"Excellent. Here are your results Harry," he stood and handed an envelope with the customary Hogwarts purple wax seal. "I will see you tonight at your occlumency lesson. Good-day Petunia, Vernon." He smiled and with the swish of his cloak, vanished.
"Well," Petunia said sheepishly. "I suppose I better get breakfast on." She stood slowly, shaking slightly, opened the curtains, and began to make bacon and eggs.
Harry stared at her for a moment. "Aunt Petunia?" Harry asked in his nicest voice.
"Yes, Harry dear?" Petunia said, equally as nicely, but not as forced as Harry had expected it to be.
"What exactly did Dumbledore mean by 'remember my last' in the howler he sent you last year?"
"I know, how about you and I go out tomorrow and go shopping for some new clothes, wouldn't you like that Harry? To have some new clothes?" Harry gaped at her. This was extremely odd. She even sounded as if she actually wanted Harry to be happy.
"Are you serious?" He stammered.
"Of course I am, dear. We can't have you walking around in Dudley's old clothes." Dudley was staring at his mother with a look of disgust; he didn't say anything however.
Vernon nodded silently in agreement seemingly understanding this sudden display of affection for Harry. "Yes," he said quietly. "New clothes would do you just nicely." He smiled at Harry pleasantly.
"Thanks." Harry stuttered awkwardly. Dumbledore was just at his house, Aunt Petunia had just called him Harry dear, Uncle Vernon smiled at him, and he was going to go shopping for new clothes the next day with Aunt Petunia. Could life get any weirder?
***
After breakfast, Harry retreated to his room. He spotted the unopened Daily Prophet lying on his bed, and Hermione's letter lying on the table, waiting for him to reply. He sat on his bed, took a deep breath and opened the Daily Prophet. A large photo of Sirius holding Harry before the death of his parents was displayed on the front. Harry felt a surge of pain and started to read.
'SIRIUS BLACK - THE INNOCENT' "a good title." Harry muttered.
'The man who was convicted the murdered of Peter Pettigrew fifteen years ago has now been proven innocent. With the recent activity of You-Know-Who and his supporters, Peter Pettigrew has been found to be alive after all. "When Harry Potter was at the 'rebirth' of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named in June two years ago, he saw with his own two eyes Peter Pettigrew taking part in a horrific display of ancient and dark magic to bring back the dark lord to life. A year before that, he saw the rat of his friend, Ronald Weasley, transform into Peter Pettigrew at the hand of Sirius Black and Remus Lupin. There is no doubt, in my mind, that Sirius Black is just as innocent as his godson, the Boy who lived himself," says Cornelius Fudge, the Minister for Magic.
'Sirius has been given a total of twenty thousand galleons for the losses he has received over the past fifteen years, and after his death in June this year, the money will be given to the appropriate people in accordance to his will. He will also receive the Order of Merlin, First Class for his display of courage in his final battle with the Death Eaters.
'Sirius Black's full story after his escape from Azkaban, page 4.'
Harry felt a little numb after that. Would he be receiving any money or the Order of Merlin? After all, he was the only living "relative" of Sirius', other than Bellatrix Lestrange, but she was insane and wasn't about to receive anything for displays of courage from the Ministry. He stood and walked to his desk. He picked up his quill and began to write to Hermione.
Dear Hermione,
Hi, I feel better after the Daily Prophet article. Finally Sirius is innocent. Something interesting happened today. Dumbledore came to my house. Seems like I will still be having those lessons. He also told the Dursleys to look after me better. Aunt Petunia is going to take me shopping for clothes sometime soon. Yes you read correctly. SHOPPING. Since when do the Dursleys buy me anything?
I'm fine, don't worry about me. Just make sure that you don't get yourself into trouble, and I will stay out of it too. You too Ron. Tell your mum that I'm fine, and that I will live. I feel really bad about Percy, surely he'll come around.
I hope I'll see you both soon,
Harry.
He read his letter over and sealed the parchment. "Hedwig," he whispered, gently prodding his owl from its sleep. "I want you take this letter to Hermione, she might be at Ron's." Hedwig nibbled his nose affectionately and flew out of the open window. Harry sighed deeply, then recommenced browsing the Prophet.
'THE NEW LIGHTENINGBOLT HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!' the title read. Harry was intrigued, and so continued reading.
'This new model of the infamous Firebolt has finally arrived. This prestigious new broomstick called the Lighteningbolt accelerates from zero to 170 mph in less than five seconds. It can maintain that constant velocity even with wind speeds of over 100mph because of its finely tuned Alder and Fig twigs. Its streamlined, Rowan handle with its diamond-hard finish is far more superior to its Firebolt predecessor. It has the usual in-built vibration control and anti-jinx varnish, as well a newly updated cushioning charm, which feels like the broom handle has perfectly moulded to your behind.
For ordering information, go to Quality Quidditch Supplies in Diagon Alley.'
Harry made a mental note to see how much that cost.
***
Harry grabbed his wand and flew down the stairs. "Professor Lupin!" He called to the rather shabby man standing in the doorway.
"Hello Harry!" He stepped forward and embraced Harry. He looked like he hadn't slept in weeks. Dark rings were vivid underneath his eyes; his cheeks were shallow and sunken. The stubble on his chin showed that he hadn't shaved in a couple of days. "Let's go to your occlumency lesson, Professor Dumbledore will be waiting."
"Thankyou Remus." Petunia said meekly.
"You're welcome," Lupin said as he led Harry out the door.
Once they were outside, Harry almost exploded. "How are you? You don't look too good. No offence. How is everyone? How are the Weasleys? What is the order."
"Shhh!" Lupin laughed. "I'm fine! Look at the moon Harry that's why I look tired. The Weasleys are fine, and so is everyone else. Professor Dumbledore will answer all of your questions when we get to Mrs Figg's house. Well, most of your questions anyway. How have you been coping? The Dursleys seem to be nicer to you than before."
"Dumbledore turned up this morning, and now they're even talking about buying me clothes! It's crazy! I'm fine. by the way."
"You know that you can talk to me about everything and anything, Harry. I miss him just as much as you do."
At the mention of Sirius Harry's heart leaped out of his chest. "It's all my fault."
"No, it isn't, Harry. You know that no one blames you, and you shouldn't blame yourself. It's how he would have wanted to die, fighting. Maybe not so early, but it doesn't matter. He would have rather you lived, to him, you were worth dying for. Do you understand?" By now, tears were running down Harry's cheeks. Lupin stopped and stood in front of him. He put his hands on Harry's shoulders. "I would die for you too Harry."
"Prof - "
"Please, Harry, call me Remus."
"Remus, no one should die just for me. I'm only one person, I can't do it by myself!" He knew that Lupin was about to mention the fact that he was their only hope.
"I know Harry. I will be right by your side, the whole time. I promise," he put his hand to his heart and pulled Harry in for another hug. "Now, let's get you to occlumency." He put his arm around Harry's shoulders and they began walking the length of Wisteria walk to Mrs Figg's house.
**************************************************************************** **********
Thanks to my reviewers, especially Makalini Astral, Earl and Low-Ki.
My next chapter will be up in approximately. one week, maybe more, maybe less.
- CHAPTER TWO -
Lightening Speed
Petunia sat down slowly, sobbing hysterically at the sight of Dumbledore dirtying her usually normal dining room. If anyone happened to be looking in the windows of the Dursleys' house right now, they might think that this was a slightly unusual sight. An extremely old man, with long white hair and beard that drooped to below his belt was standing, offering a chair to a pale woman. He wore deep purple robes with yellow stars and moons dotting the fabric at random intervals. On the top of his pearly white crown, he wore a pointed wizard's hat, the same colour of his robes. His small, square spectacles sat on the tip of his long, crooked nose, a small smile played across his thin lips, and his eyes sparkled with delight. Next to this man, a boy sat gaping. His jet-black hair was a mess, his bright green eyes sparkled with joy at the sight of this tall, old man, and he wore pyjamas that were three sizes to big for him. A petrified woman with blond wispy hair sat next to the boy, her blue eyes brimming with unshed tears and her hands shaking with a mingled feeling of rage and fear. She seemed to have realised that the sight would be particularly degrading if one of the neighbours were to spy on her at this moment, so she stood, crossed the room in two large strides, and shut the curtains.
"Petunia, please calm yourself," Dumbledore spoke kindly to this woman, who moments earlier had insulted him. "I have come to inform you and your family of Harry's responsibilities during the school holidays, and your own responsibilities regarding Harry." Just then, a very angry Vernon Dursley entered the room, looking like he was about to explode, and Dudley followed in sheepishly after him, attempting to hide his bulk behind his father.
"WHAT IN THE NAME OF MERCY ARE YOU DOING IN MY HOUSE!" Vernon screamed.
"Ah, Vernon, please sit, and I will inform you of this." he paused searching for the right words. ".Delightful visit."
Harry was sure that Dumbledore had winked at him then.
"THIS VISIT IS NOT DELIGHTFUL! IT IS OUTRAGEOUS AND I WANT YOU TO LEAVE RIGHT NOW!" Harry thought that his uncle had a lot of nerve to talk to a wizard like this. Vernon was turning a lighter shade of puce, and looked as if he had just realised who he was talking to. Dumbledore seemed to grow six inches, and the room became slightly darker.
"Vernon Dursley! I do not wish to harm you! Please be seated so that I may talk to you in a civilised fashion!" Dumbledore spoke in a stage whisper, but his voice filled the entire room, and a slight echo could be heard. Vernon whimpered and sat down, Dudley cowered against the wall, and Petunia shrank behind Vernon. Harry looked dazed. The room lightened again, and for a moment Dumbledore became shrivelled and ancient.
"Now, what was I saying?" Dumbledore shook his head lightly. "Oh yes. Harry will be having Occlumency lessons throughout the summer, where he will be going to Mrs Figg's house and meeting either me, or another Professor from his school."
"Wait a moment," Petunia insisted. "Mrs Figg? Why there? She isn't. abnormal, is she?"
"She's a squib," Harry said. "A non-magical witch, Aunt Petunia."
"Yes," Dumbledore said. "Each night, Harry will be picked up by Remus Lupin, and taken to her house for one hour, and he will be delivered home by Remus or myself." The Dursleys nodded their heads, showing their understanding.
"I also would like to talk about the implications of Harry staying here. As long as Harry calls your house his home, your family and Harry himself are protected by the magic that Lily left inside of him. I told you about this fifteen years ago, Petunia, when you first took Harry in." At this piece of information, both Harry and his uncle wore faces of mixed confusion and curiosity. "I have been warned by Remus, and other wizards, that you are not treating Harry up to the standards he deserves. From now on, you will do so, otherwise Harry may choose to leave, and your family will be the next targeted by Lord Voldemort." Petunia blanched, and nodded her head numbly. After glancing at his wife, Vernon agreed with a grunt. Dudley just whimpered and clung to his mother.
"Excellent. Here are your results Harry," he stood and handed an envelope with the customary Hogwarts purple wax seal. "I will see you tonight at your occlumency lesson. Good-day Petunia, Vernon." He smiled and with the swish of his cloak, vanished.
"Well," Petunia said sheepishly. "I suppose I better get breakfast on." She stood slowly, shaking slightly, opened the curtains, and began to make bacon and eggs.
Harry stared at her for a moment. "Aunt Petunia?" Harry asked in his nicest voice.
"Yes, Harry dear?" Petunia said, equally as nicely, but not as forced as Harry had expected it to be.
"What exactly did Dumbledore mean by 'remember my last' in the howler he sent you last year?"
"I know, how about you and I go out tomorrow and go shopping for some new clothes, wouldn't you like that Harry? To have some new clothes?" Harry gaped at her. This was extremely odd. She even sounded as if she actually wanted Harry to be happy.
"Are you serious?" He stammered.
"Of course I am, dear. We can't have you walking around in Dudley's old clothes." Dudley was staring at his mother with a look of disgust; he didn't say anything however.
Vernon nodded silently in agreement seemingly understanding this sudden display of affection for Harry. "Yes," he said quietly. "New clothes would do you just nicely." He smiled at Harry pleasantly.
"Thanks." Harry stuttered awkwardly. Dumbledore was just at his house, Aunt Petunia had just called him Harry dear, Uncle Vernon smiled at him, and he was going to go shopping for new clothes the next day with Aunt Petunia. Could life get any weirder?
***
After breakfast, Harry retreated to his room. He spotted the unopened Daily Prophet lying on his bed, and Hermione's letter lying on the table, waiting for him to reply. He sat on his bed, took a deep breath and opened the Daily Prophet. A large photo of Sirius holding Harry before the death of his parents was displayed on the front. Harry felt a surge of pain and started to read.
'SIRIUS BLACK - THE INNOCENT' "a good title." Harry muttered.
'The man who was convicted the murdered of Peter Pettigrew fifteen years ago has now been proven innocent. With the recent activity of You-Know-Who and his supporters, Peter Pettigrew has been found to be alive after all. "When Harry Potter was at the 'rebirth' of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named in June two years ago, he saw with his own two eyes Peter Pettigrew taking part in a horrific display of ancient and dark magic to bring back the dark lord to life. A year before that, he saw the rat of his friend, Ronald Weasley, transform into Peter Pettigrew at the hand of Sirius Black and Remus Lupin. There is no doubt, in my mind, that Sirius Black is just as innocent as his godson, the Boy who lived himself," says Cornelius Fudge, the Minister for Magic.
'Sirius has been given a total of twenty thousand galleons for the losses he has received over the past fifteen years, and after his death in June this year, the money will be given to the appropriate people in accordance to his will. He will also receive the Order of Merlin, First Class for his display of courage in his final battle with the Death Eaters.
'Sirius Black's full story after his escape from Azkaban, page 4.'
Harry felt a little numb after that. Would he be receiving any money or the Order of Merlin? After all, he was the only living "relative" of Sirius', other than Bellatrix Lestrange, but she was insane and wasn't about to receive anything for displays of courage from the Ministry. He stood and walked to his desk. He picked up his quill and began to write to Hermione.
Dear Hermione,
Hi, I feel better after the Daily Prophet article. Finally Sirius is innocent. Something interesting happened today. Dumbledore came to my house. Seems like I will still be having those lessons. He also told the Dursleys to look after me better. Aunt Petunia is going to take me shopping for clothes sometime soon. Yes you read correctly. SHOPPING. Since when do the Dursleys buy me anything?
I'm fine, don't worry about me. Just make sure that you don't get yourself into trouble, and I will stay out of it too. You too Ron. Tell your mum that I'm fine, and that I will live. I feel really bad about Percy, surely he'll come around.
I hope I'll see you both soon,
Harry.
He read his letter over and sealed the parchment. "Hedwig," he whispered, gently prodding his owl from its sleep. "I want you take this letter to Hermione, she might be at Ron's." Hedwig nibbled his nose affectionately and flew out of the open window. Harry sighed deeply, then recommenced browsing the Prophet.
'THE NEW LIGHTENINGBOLT HAS FINALLY ARRIVED!' the title read. Harry was intrigued, and so continued reading.
'This new model of the infamous Firebolt has finally arrived. This prestigious new broomstick called the Lighteningbolt accelerates from zero to 170 mph in less than five seconds. It can maintain that constant velocity even with wind speeds of over 100mph because of its finely tuned Alder and Fig twigs. Its streamlined, Rowan handle with its diamond-hard finish is far more superior to its Firebolt predecessor. It has the usual in-built vibration control and anti-jinx varnish, as well a newly updated cushioning charm, which feels like the broom handle has perfectly moulded to your behind.
For ordering information, go to Quality Quidditch Supplies in Diagon Alley.'
Harry made a mental note to see how much that cost.
***
Harry grabbed his wand and flew down the stairs. "Professor Lupin!" He called to the rather shabby man standing in the doorway.
"Hello Harry!" He stepped forward and embraced Harry. He looked like he hadn't slept in weeks. Dark rings were vivid underneath his eyes; his cheeks were shallow and sunken. The stubble on his chin showed that he hadn't shaved in a couple of days. "Let's go to your occlumency lesson, Professor Dumbledore will be waiting."
"Thankyou Remus." Petunia said meekly.
"You're welcome," Lupin said as he led Harry out the door.
Once they were outside, Harry almost exploded. "How are you? You don't look too good. No offence. How is everyone? How are the Weasleys? What is the order."
"Shhh!" Lupin laughed. "I'm fine! Look at the moon Harry that's why I look tired. The Weasleys are fine, and so is everyone else. Professor Dumbledore will answer all of your questions when we get to Mrs Figg's house. Well, most of your questions anyway. How have you been coping? The Dursleys seem to be nicer to you than before."
"Dumbledore turned up this morning, and now they're even talking about buying me clothes! It's crazy! I'm fine. by the way."
"You know that you can talk to me about everything and anything, Harry. I miss him just as much as you do."
At the mention of Sirius Harry's heart leaped out of his chest. "It's all my fault."
"No, it isn't, Harry. You know that no one blames you, and you shouldn't blame yourself. It's how he would have wanted to die, fighting. Maybe not so early, but it doesn't matter. He would have rather you lived, to him, you were worth dying for. Do you understand?" By now, tears were running down Harry's cheeks. Lupin stopped and stood in front of him. He put his hands on Harry's shoulders. "I would die for you too Harry."
"Prof - "
"Please, Harry, call me Remus."
"Remus, no one should die just for me. I'm only one person, I can't do it by myself!" He knew that Lupin was about to mention the fact that he was their only hope.
"I know Harry. I will be right by your side, the whole time. I promise," he put his hand to his heart and pulled Harry in for another hug. "Now, let's get you to occlumency." He put his arm around Harry's shoulders and they began walking the length of Wisteria walk to Mrs Figg's house.
**************************************************************************** **********
Thanks to my reviewers, especially Makalini Astral, Earl and Low-Ki.
My next chapter will be up in approximately. one week, maybe more, maybe less.