DISCLAIMER: This story is based on characters and situations created and
owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to
Bloomsbury Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no
copyright or trademark infringement is intended.
A big thanks to Whiteriver for editing this chapter
CHAPTER TWO
EVENING IN DIAGON ALLEY
After having a good breakfast with the Weasleys, Ron showed Harry the Daily Prophet from the last few days. On the front page of every publication there was the same story and its progress. One of the articles in particular had been very hard on the Ministry of Magic.
INCOMPETENCE IN THE MINISTRY
BY: RITA SKEETER
Once more the ministry is showing its incompetence on giving answers
on the happenings that begun on the 7th July, Writes Rita Skeeter,
special correspondent. On that day a ghost of some kind appeared in
the middle of Diagon alley causing terror in the whole area. After The
7th July this ghost made other apparitions in Hogsmeade and Hogwarts
School of witchcraft and wizardry.
Even though the minister of magic has mobilised the whole of the
ministry members on this case, they didn't produce any results on
finding who or what is causing these apparitions and did not put a
stop to them.
Other sources independent from the ministry stated that the apparition
of this shadow is not of a restless ghost as the minister is implying,
but most probably a wizard experimenting with dark arts.
If this is the case this wizard must be found and put to justice for
the crimes committed by him, but all that the entire ministry has done
is patrolled the streets and state a curfew, causing a great blow on
the economy of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
It is imperative that Cornelius Fudge sees that this situation is
resolved, or retires from his position of minister and leaves the
Ministry in more competent hands.
Harry was getting anxious, and wanted to talk to Dumbledore about this story. It seemed that he had caused a lot of trouble to other people without knowing.
"Well I think I'm in trouble," Harry said in nearly a whisper
"Yep Harry. It's a life time in Azkaban fore sure," said George, which resulted in blow on his head with a kitchen towel from Mrs. Weasley
"Stop joking about things like that George!" said Mr. Weasley and for the first time Harry saw him angry.
George must have noticed too because his expression changed and he mumbled something that sounded like "sorry, only joking"
"They are using this story to try and get rid of the minister. And that idiot is falling right in to their hands by putting the ministry in more shame. A curfew in the middle of the summer, and taking the entire ministry off their regular jobs was the stupidest thing to do. And that Skeeter women is putting more pressure on us every day," said Mr. Weasley angrily.
"I'm sorry for all the trouble I've been causing" said Harry sadly "I should have written to Dumbledore on this, and now."
"Its not your fault dear. You didn't know," said Mrs. Weasley.
For few minutes no one said anything, and it was Mrs. Weasley who broke the silence. "Arthur I think you better go get some rest; you're on duty tonight as well,"
"They are still going to patrol the streets tonight?" Harry asked a bit warred
"Well yes Harry, no one knows that it was you who was walking around at night. And I don't think Dumbledore is going to tell them," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Well I'm going to get some sleep. It seems that tonight we're going to have a ghost free night, what do you think Harry?" said Mr. Weasley smiling at Harry as he left the room.
Harry stayed silent deep in thoughts. He could imagine the headlines if Rita Skeeter gets hold of this story, and Cornelius Fudge wouldn't care if he was sleepwalking or not if it meant saving his image. George was right: it would be a lifetime in Azkaban for sure. Harry shivered at the thought of a dementor approaching him, let alone being in Azkaban with two of them guarding your door day and night.
"Hey Harry do you wont to go play Quidditch this evening?" asked Ron bringing Harry away from his thoughts.
"Not this evening Ron, me and Harry are going to London. Harry needs to get some stuff from there, isn't that right Harry?" said Charlie and Harry nodded "but if you like you can come along" he added.
"Is the invitation extended to us?" said George
"Yes I think it would be OK for you to come," said Charlie
"Good, so if Ron comes we can get him some new robes," said Fred winking to Harry.
Harry remembered how he had made the twins promise to buy Ron some new dress robes when he gave them his winnings from the Triwizard Tournament. He was sure Ron would never accept anything like that from him, but this way he would never know.
"Why do you want to buy me new robes?" asked Ron confused
"Because you're being a prat and we want to reward you for it. So shut up and accept the gift," said George
"So are you coming or not?" Charlie asked Ron
"Well OK if your all going I suppose" said Ron
"Is it OK for you mum, if we all go?" Charlie asked his mother
"Well I don't see any problems if they're going with you" said Mrs. Weasley
"OK, so we leave after lunch," Charlie decided, getting up from the table. "And be ready don't keep us waiting you three" he added to Ron, George, and Fred before leaving the room.
"Well no Quidditch to day then. How about a game of chess Harry?" asked Ron
"Yeah OK, let me go get my chess set," said Harry, running to fetch his chess set
*
The morning passed quickly for Harry, playing chess or laughing at Fred and George's jokes. It seems that Mrs. Weasley had accepted the idea of Fred and George not joining the ministry like Mr. Weasley. The twins were making more noise then ever, and the jokes were getting more interesting.
Soon it was time for lunch and Harry noticed that apart from Percy and Mr. Weasley, who was getting a late lunch, there were other two empty seats at the table.
"Hey Ron, were are Ginny and Bill? I haven't seen them around," Harry whispered
"Bill is in Egypt for work and Ginny went there with him and some school friends on a holiday, they will be back in two weeks," said Ron happily
"Oh. and do you think I should write to Snuffles and Hermione about last night?" Harry asked Ron
"I already wrote to Hermione last night, she went on holiday with her parents I invited her here after her holiday. And Dumbledore wrote to Snuffles explaining what happened, so don't worry too much about anything. Anyway how are your hands?" said Ron
"Oh. I think they're healing now. I don't know why they didn't heal after two weeks," said Harry.
"Well mum makes these bandages. You know with six boys it can come handy, and they nearly heal anything," said Ron
Harry nodded and started to eat his lunch, which was delicious and prepared by Mrs. Weasley. The lunch was uneventful if you didn't count the jokes from Fred and George.
After lunch Harry ran up to his room to prepare for the evening. Harry changed in his best clothes he got, which where a pear of baggy jeans and a green T-shirt. He took his cloak and went down to wait for the others. Charlie was already waiting for them next to the fireplace, but there was no sign of Ron or the twins.
After few minutes Ron, Fred and George came down arguing about something.
"Will you three shut up and get a move on it. We don't have all day," said Charlie, a bit annoyed for having to wait for them
"All right, keep your hair on we're coming," said Fred. Charlie glared at him.
"OK Harry you first, don't forget to speak clearly," said Charlie handing Harry some floo powder
Harry took some floo powder and threw it in to the fire, which turned in to high green flames. Harry stepped in to the warm feeling fire and said "Diagon alley". Once Harry spoke the words the unpleasant spinning started, and he was sucked through the chimney.
After few seconds of spinning Harry stopped and fell, face forward, onto cold stone floor of the Leaky Cauldron. He stood up, and, still shaking, he moved to rest against the wall. He felt extremely dizzy. This definitely was not his favourite way to travel. Soon one by one Charlie, Fred, George and Ron joined Harry; all covered in soot and dizzy.
After resting for few minuets and cleaning themselves with a cleaning charm, they stared walking towards Gringotts to get their money. After a wild ride on the Gringotts cart to where George, Fred and Harry were keeping there gold, Harry went to a counter to change some galleons into Muggle money. Harry didn't like the goblin behind the counter. He didn't seem happy that Harry wanted to change his galleons in to Muggle money and the exchange rate was extremely unfair.
When everyone was outside into the sunlight, Charlie turned to talk to Ron and the twins.
"OK we need to go to the Muggle London so we will leave you here. Don't leave Diagon alley. We will meat at Flourish and Blotts in three hours, OK?" said Charlie
"Flourish and Blotts? But we don't have our school list yet, what do you need from there?" asked Ron
"Err- I wanted to read some books before going back to school that's all," said Harry
"OK we'll meet there," said Ron "this in not going to be a happy evening"
"Oh come on little brother. If you be a good boy, we'll get you an ice- cream" said Fred like he was talking to a five-year-old. Ron looked like he was going to explode but luckily Charlie interrupted him.
"Shall we go Harry?" asked Charlie turning to walk from the Leaky cauldron.
"Sure. See you Ron," said Harry following Charlie, not wanting to witness the Weasley temper.
At the Leaky Cauldron Harry and Charlie took off their cloak and walked out into the Muggle London. It was very busy at this time and Harry didn't know were to go, so he turned to Charlie, who seemed fascinated by all the Muggles.
"Err Charlie? By any chance do you know were we can find a good optician?" asked Harry already knowing the answer by the expression on Charlie's face
"What's an opti-thing?" said Charlie confused
"Oh great!" said Harry looking around.
There were lots of deferent shops: music stores, bookshops, a carpet supplier, bars..... but there was nothing Harry needed to buy there. So Harry walked across the road followed by Charlie, were a taxi was waiting for clients. The driver was a young man on his twenties with black-hear and black eyes, and he looked like he was a pleasant person. Harry approached the driver and asked him for some information.
"Err excuse me? Could you tell me where I can find a good optician please?" Asked Harry politely
"Well you will not find any around here. But if you like I can take you to a good one not too far from hear" said the driver
"Yes I would appreciate it," said Harry
"All right then, get in and I'll take you," he said happily
Harry and Charlie climbed in to the car, and at once the car started to move. Charlie was really exited and kept looking like a small child on his first outing. Along the way Harry started talking to the driver who turned out to be a very nice guy, he was married and have a baby girl named Shantia. Soon the car stopped and in front of them was a very modern optician.
"Well there you go Mr. potter, London Optics. If you need my services I will be here for some time. It was a pleasure knowing you," said the driver.
"Thank you sir the pleasure was mine," said Harry
They paid the driver and walked in to the shop. The shop was huge: all around on the displays there were glasses of all kinds and sizes. Very elegant shop attendants were helping their clients to make their choices. Charlie's eyes went huge wan he saw a very beautiful attendant with blond hear and blue eyes approach them, and Harry started to laugh at him.
"Can I help you gentlemen?" asked the attendant and Charlie gaped at her
Harry elbowed him and spoke to her "Err yes well, I'm interested in getting some contacts and a new pear of glasses"
"If you follow me please I can take your measurements for the contacts and the glasses," she said and gave Charlie a sweet smile and then turned and walked away
Charlie and Harry followed her in to a small room with strange equipment. It took them nearly half an hour to take the necessary measurements for the glasses and the contacts.
After the attendant helped Harry to put on his new contacts and tell him how to use the cleaners, they walked to the displays to choose his new frame for his glasses. Harry was still getting used to the contacts and kept blinking and rubbing his eyes. Whilst Harry was choosing his new glasses he noticed that Charlie was engaged in a conversation with the shop attendant and both of them were smiling at each outer. Minutes passed and his choice were of the same shape of his old ones but they were rimless. Both Charlie and the attendant agreed with his choice and said that they didn't hide his eyes.
"Sir it will only take an hour to finish your glasses. If you like you can wait or come back later for them" said the attendant
"We will come back for them after an hour if you don't mind" said Harry
"Its not a problem. See you soon then sir," she said, and gave Charlie another sweet smile
After paying for the glasses and the contacts they went out to look for a taxi. Harry looked around and noticed that the taxi with which they came here was still waiting and Harry approached the driver.
"Hello again Mr. Potter where can I take you now" said the driver
"Well can you take us to a good place to buy some clothes please," said Harry
"Sure. I know just the place for you" said the driver and with that the car was moving once again through London.
On the way to there next shop Charlie looked thoughtful and Harry was wondering if it has anything to do with that shop attendant.
"Hay Charlie what's wrong?" asked Harry
"Oh nothing. it's just-"
"That you like the shop attendant?" Harry finished for him "Is that it?" he added
"Well. I think so," he mumbled and Harry laughed
"You know Charlie I think she noticed you too" Harry said trying not to laugh "why don't you ask her out when we go back there?" he added
"I don't know Harry, what if she says no," he said
"What if she says yes," said Harry "you never know if you don't ask her"
"I think Mr. Potter is right sir. You will never know if you don't ask," said the driver with a chuckle
"And you have noting to loose," added Harry.
After that no one said a word until they arrived in front the shop. Harry paid the taxi driver and asked if he could wait for them. The driver nodded politely.
When Harry entered the store his mouth dropped open when he saw all the clothes around him. He had never seen so many clothes in his life let alone in one place. Soon an old man who seemed the owner of the store approached them.
"How can I help you gentlemen?" he asked
"I'm interested in purchasing some new clothes to renew my wardrobe," said Harry and a big smile appeared on the man's face.
"Yes I understand sir. If you follow me pleas," said the old man.
Harry followed the old men around the three-story shop to see the clothes the old men suggested. And after some time Harry followed him in to a small room to try his new clothing. Harry took nearly an hour trying out new clothes and see how he looked in a large mirror in the room. Harry had to try all sorts of clothing, jeans, trousers, T-shirts, shirts, shorts, shoes, trainers, boots and even some boxer shorts and a new pyjama. Every item that the old man suggested seemed to be dark coloured, most of them were black, but they suited him perfectly. It was strange for Harry to have new clothes, and without his glasses he nearly didn't recognise himself in the mirror.
After selecting a pear of black trousers and shirt to put on, he paid the old men for the clothes and went out of the shop carrying bags full of clothes. Harry and Charlie took the taxi back to the optician so they can take the glasses. The ride only took few minutes and soon they were waiting for Harry's new glasses, and Charlie was once again talking to the blond shop attendant.
When the glasses were ready and Harry was satisfied with them, he called for Charlie so they could go back. It took him few more minutes to drag Charlie out of the shop and into the taxi.
On their way back to the Leaky Caldron Harry asked, "Did you ask her?"
Charlie smiled and said "Yes,"
"Well? What did she say?" Harry asked and Charlie smiled broadly but didn't answer "She said yes!"
"I knew it," said Harry happily "When are you going out? Come on tell me!"
"Sorry Harry it's none of your business" he said chuckling "But thanks," and Harry smiled at him
"Do you think I should tell the twins about this?" asked Harry trying to pay him back for teasing him that morning.
"Yes. Go on and tell them, but rest assured, Ginny will get to know how we found you last night with every detail," said Charlie
"OK you won, I will keep quiet," said Harry and Charlie laughed
"Well I can't guarantee she won't find out anyway," Charlie laughed
Once back, Harry thanked the driver and walked into the Leaky cauldron. They put on their cloaks, and Charlie charmed one of the bags so the others would fit in it so would only have to carry one.
Harry only head two things to do before meeting with Ron and the twins and there was still an hour. He needed a haircut and Harry know were he could go. Madam Terry magical hear-stilling was not far from the Leaky Cauldron and soon Harry was sitting having his hair cut.
The haircut didn't take much time and soon Harry was outside. His hair was cut short with a fringe covering his forehead; it was still a bit messy but it was combed backwards. His new look really suited him, his black trousers and shirt and now his new haircut made his brilliant green eyes stand out on his pale face, and there were no glasses to hide them.
"You know Harry," said Charlie after they walked out of the hair-stiller "I think your next year is going to be rough for you"
"Why do you say that?" asked Harry a bit worried thinking about last night.
"Well, how are you going to keep all your female fans away now that you look so good?" laughed Charlie and Harry turned red but stayed silent. "Where do you need to do now, we still have more than half an hour"
"Err- I need to go to Knockturn alley" said Harry in a whisper and Charlie gave him a stern look.
"Why do you want to go to Knockturn alley? It's dangerous there, especially for you." said Charlie so only Harry could hear him.
"I know that, but I need to get some books and I will not find them in Flourish and Blotts, besides we will keep our hoods up so no one will know its us. Please Charlie it's important that I get those books, I don't want to go alone," said Harry
Charlie thought for few minutes and then said, "What are those books for?"
"Sorry Charlie I can't tell you, but I need them" he said
"I don't like this, but I will come with you," said Charlie, and Harry smiled at him
"Thanks Charlie" said Harry and left to Knockturn alley.
With their hoods up all the time Harry and Charlie made there way through Knockturn alley. Harry and Charlie kept on the side trying not to attract too much attention on themselves until they came in front an old shop with a book on display. The book was written in some kind of brown reddish ink, or that's what he thought it was until Charlie said "blood". Inside the atmosphere was very eerie with all the strange looking volumes. Some of theme where made of what seemed to be human flash and some could be heard whispering incantations.
Harry gave a shiver and started to look around the shelves, searching for something of interest. After Harry looked around the shelves he was holding four volumes on the dark arts. One of them was on parseltounge, it was made of snakeskin and it had to be spoken in parseltounge to open the book. Other two were quite ordinary, which were on dark charms and transfiguration spells, and the last one was on potions.
When Harry was satisfied with his selection he moved to the counter where an old man was reading one of the books bound in human flesh, and showed him the books. The old man one after the other scanned the books and packed them in to a black leather beg, but stopped to look at the last one. He looked at the snakeskin bound book and then at Harry suspiciously.
"I only know two persons in this century who can open this book. One of them, I think he already knows every thing on the subject, but the other....." he said very calmly looking at Harry suspiciously
"I collect rare books" said Harry in and arrogant voice and trying to sound confident with the place hoping not to be recognised "So what's the cost for the books?"
The old man gave him a knowing smile and spoke "Fifteen galleons. Mr.-?"
Harry gave him the money and took the bag form the counter and turned to leave.
"If you need any more rare books don't hesitate to come back, " said the old man "It will be a pleasure to help you out young man."
Harry ignored him and left the shop and met Charlie outside. Both of them, without talking, walked their way to Diagon alley.
"What happened in there? you look like you've seen a ghost!" asked Charlie after they reached Diagon alley and took their hoods down. Harry looked at him and after few minuets he told him what happened in the shop.
"So that what you wanted to buy, a book on parseltounge?" said Charlie and Harry nodded "Well that wasn't a bad idea you know."
"You approve that I bought a book like that?" asked Harry surprised
"Yes. Harry you have a gift, so why shouldn't you use it? All because of the prejudice of some wizards, honestly Harry....." he said and Harry smiled at him. Charlie was one of the few people who didn't think less of him only because he was a parselmouth. "So are you going to get a pet snake?" asked Charlie happily
"I don't know if I should you know, I would like to....." said Harry sadly "But we're already late to meet the others....."
"Oh come on my brothers can wait for half an hour. And you can't practice what's in the book without a snake. I know a perfect place were you can get one, an old friend of mine. He will be very happy to meet you," said Charlie pulling Harry along the road.
They walked for few minutes and turned in to a small side street at the end of Diagon alley. When Charlie stopped Harry found himself in a shop full with magical creatures. There were all the ordinary pets like owls, cats, rats, toads, and bats, but then there were others like giant spiders, salamanders and nifflers. Charlie moved to the counter where there was a man with blond short hair, with some scars on his face.
"Charlie Weasley! It's been a long time since you were young. Always coming to look at the creatures! So tell me, what brings you hear after so long?" said the man at the counter
"Hello Roger how are you?" said Charlie happily "Well young Harry here is looking for a snake, can you suggest anything?" when Roger heard Harry's name, he launched at Harry and grabbed his hand and started shaking it.
"Its an honour to meet you Mr. Potter its an honour," Roger said shaking Harry's hand, and for some moments Harry thought he was going to rip his hand off. "Please Mr. Potter follow me I will show you what I have available," he added leaving Harry's hand and ran in to a small room behind the counter.
Harry looked at Charlie confused and he laughed at Harry before following his friend in the room. Harry slowly followed them into the room. The room was cooler then the rest of the shop, and all around there were glass tanks with snakes in them. Every glass tank was containing a deferent species of snake, and they were all sleeping peacefully on paces of wood or grass inside the tanks. Roger and Charlie were looking at one of the snakes with dark grey scaly skin that was sleeping wrapped round a piece of wood. It was in a glass tank and it was nearly three feet long and it had something like small horns next to his eyes. Harry never saw a snake like that and when he went closer Harry thought it head something different from the other snakes, something special.
"What kind of snake is that?" asked Harry
Roger smiled at Harry "that is a Healing Gaboon, it lives in Africa and it's very rare."
"Healing Gaboon? Dose it have healing powers?" Harry asked moving closer to the glass thank, and get a clear view.
"Not exactly. Its venom is not very poisonous since it only eats small pray, but if it is mixed with an infusion of bloodroot it has the same effect of a phoenix tear" said Roger
"Hello what is your name?" said Harry in parseltounge
"YOU'RE A PARSELMOUTH?!?!?" shouted Roger and Harry looked at him. His face looked very surprised.
"I told you Charlie. Everyone will think I'm some evil person," said Harry dully but Charlie smiled at him.
"No it's not that. Its that I didn't know, you kind of surprised me that's all....." said Roger giving Harry a smile, which Harry returned.
"Well I thought that by now everyone knows with what that Rita Skeeter wrote on me some time ago," said Harry
"Ah, I understand your problem now. Well Mr. Potter I am one of the many persons that think that Rita Skeeter is a stupid cow, and I don't read her articles," said Roger happily and gave Harry a reassuring smile. Then Harry heard hissing and turned to look at the snake to find him awake and looking at him.
"I don't have a name," hissed the snake
"Oh, well my name is Harry Potter. Do you want to come with me as my pet?" Harry asked the snake
"I would like you to be my massster, Harry Potter. Itsss too cold for me hear and I don't like to ssstay behind thisss glasssss" said the snake
"You can stay around my body if you like to keep warm" said Harry in parseltounge
"I would like that Harry Potter," said the snake
"I like him he's nice. Can I take him?" said Harry turning to Roger
"Yes he is yours, but you need to give him a name. Do you have any idea of what to call him?" said Roger
"Yes I think I know the perfect name for him 'Aesculapius,' " said Harry
"Ah yes, the god of medicine good choice Harry," said Charlie
"What do you think if I name you Aesculapius after the god of medicine, but I will call you Aescul for short," said Harry to the snake
"Yesss I like it massster" said the snake after some thought
"He likes it," said Harry.
Roger nodded and opened the glass tank for Harry to take Aescul in his hands. Harry lowered his hand in the glass thank and Aescul wrapped himself around his arm. He kept moving up under his sleeve and then positioned himself around Harry's neck and poked his head out from his shirt.
"I think he likes it around my neck," said Harry and both Roger and Charlie laughed.
After Harry paid for his new pet and said goodbye to Roger, Harry and Charlie ran to Flourish and Blotts to meet with Ron and the twins. They were more then thirty minutes late and they were on the other side of Diagon alley. When they finally arrived at Flourish and Blotts they fund them outside the shop waiting.
"At last Charlie where have you been and where is Harry-," said George but stopped and gaped at Harry as did Ron and Fred, and both Harry and Charlie started to laugh at them.
"Wow! What happened to you man, you look. different," said Ron after finding his voice.
"Oh come on, I only changed some clothes and got a haircut what's so different," said Harry.
"Harry? Do you know that you have a snake poking out from your shirt?" said Fred
"Oh yes this is Aesculapius, but I call him Aescul he is my new pet he is very nice," explained Harry. And all three of them kept gaping at Harry and at the snake.
After few seconds of gaping, Harry got annoyed and went in to the shop to get the books he needed from there. It only took him few minutes to get the books he needed. He already know the title of the books, and brought the books to the counter to pay for them. Soon all five of them were heading back to the leaky caldron to floo back to the Burrow. This time Harry was going to use the floo after the twins and Ron. So, after holding securely the bags with his new cloths and books and telling Aescul to hold on tight to him, Harry was stepped in to the fire and called 'the Burrow'. The spinning started and Harry was off on his way to the Burrow. It only took few seconds and Harry found himself face down on the floor covered in soot. He was helped on his feet by Fred and George and rested for few seconds against the mantelpiece. At that moment Mrs. Weasley entered the room and gave Harry a good look and said
"Well Harry that is a nice change. Why don't you go and refresh your self before dinner? It will be ready in few minutes" she said and Harry nodded and left for his room.
After taking his new clothes and books out from the begs, he went to have a quick shower. Once clean he chose a pear of dark blue jeans and a green shirt and put Aescul around his neck and went down for diner. At dinner Mrs. Weasley didn't seem very happy about Aescul, but soon she seemed to accept him.
After diner Harry and Ron played a game of chess before going to bed and Mrs. Weasley prepared some dreamless sleep potion for Harry for that night. Harry was glad to be able to sleep that night, the day was full and Harry was tired.
Getting in to bed Harry thought of the Dursleys and imagined the look on there faces when they found out that he had disappeared, and gave a laugh. He was happy now, he was away from the Dursleys and tonight he would not have any dreams. 'Thanks Dumbledore for letting me stay at the Burrow," he thought happily
"Well Good night Aescul," said Harry to the snake who was moving around under the sheets
"Good night massster," said Aescul and Harry took the potion and fell in to a deep, dreamless sleep.
*
Please, please, please review - your comments always make me smile
A big thanks to Whiteriver for editing this chapter
CHAPTER TWO
EVENING IN DIAGON ALLEY
After having a good breakfast with the Weasleys, Ron showed Harry the Daily Prophet from the last few days. On the front page of every publication there was the same story and its progress. One of the articles in particular had been very hard on the Ministry of Magic.
INCOMPETENCE IN THE MINISTRY
BY: RITA SKEETER
Once more the ministry is showing its incompetence on giving answers
on the happenings that begun on the 7th July, Writes Rita Skeeter,
special correspondent. On that day a ghost of some kind appeared in
the middle of Diagon alley causing terror in the whole area. After The
7th July this ghost made other apparitions in Hogsmeade and Hogwarts
School of witchcraft and wizardry.
Even though the minister of magic has mobilised the whole of the
ministry members on this case, they didn't produce any results on
finding who or what is causing these apparitions and did not put a
stop to them.
Other sources independent from the ministry stated that the apparition
of this shadow is not of a restless ghost as the minister is implying,
but most probably a wizard experimenting with dark arts.
If this is the case this wizard must be found and put to justice for
the crimes committed by him, but all that the entire ministry has done
is patrolled the streets and state a curfew, causing a great blow on
the economy of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade.
It is imperative that Cornelius Fudge sees that this situation is
resolved, or retires from his position of minister and leaves the
Ministry in more competent hands.
Harry was getting anxious, and wanted to talk to Dumbledore about this story. It seemed that he had caused a lot of trouble to other people without knowing.
"Well I think I'm in trouble," Harry said in nearly a whisper
"Yep Harry. It's a life time in Azkaban fore sure," said George, which resulted in blow on his head with a kitchen towel from Mrs. Weasley
"Stop joking about things like that George!" said Mr. Weasley and for the first time Harry saw him angry.
George must have noticed too because his expression changed and he mumbled something that sounded like "sorry, only joking"
"They are using this story to try and get rid of the minister. And that idiot is falling right in to their hands by putting the ministry in more shame. A curfew in the middle of the summer, and taking the entire ministry off their regular jobs was the stupidest thing to do. And that Skeeter women is putting more pressure on us every day," said Mr. Weasley angrily.
"I'm sorry for all the trouble I've been causing" said Harry sadly "I should have written to Dumbledore on this, and now."
"Its not your fault dear. You didn't know," said Mrs. Weasley.
For few minutes no one said anything, and it was Mrs. Weasley who broke the silence. "Arthur I think you better go get some rest; you're on duty tonight as well,"
"They are still going to patrol the streets tonight?" Harry asked a bit warred
"Well yes Harry, no one knows that it was you who was walking around at night. And I don't think Dumbledore is going to tell them," said Mrs. Weasley.
"Well I'm going to get some sleep. It seems that tonight we're going to have a ghost free night, what do you think Harry?" said Mr. Weasley smiling at Harry as he left the room.
Harry stayed silent deep in thoughts. He could imagine the headlines if Rita Skeeter gets hold of this story, and Cornelius Fudge wouldn't care if he was sleepwalking or not if it meant saving his image. George was right: it would be a lifetime in Azkaban for sure. Harry shivered at the thought of a dementor approaching him, let alone being in Azkaban with two of them guarding your door day and night.
"Hey Harry do you wont to go play Quidditch this evening?" asked Ron bringing Harry away from his thoughts.
"Not this evening Ron, me and Harry are going to London. Harry needs to get some stuff from there, isn't that right Harry?" said Charlie and Harry nodded "but if you like you can come along" he added.
"Is the invitation extended to us?" said George
"Yes I think it would be OK for you to come," said Charlie
"Good, so if Ron comes we can get him some new robes," said Fred winking to Harry.
Harry remembered how he had made the twins promise to buy Ron some new dress robes when he gave them his winnings from the Triwizard Tournament. He was sure Ron would never accept anything like that from him, but this way he would never know.
"Why do you want to buy me new robes?" asked Ron confused
"Because you're being a prat and we want to reward you for it. So shut up and accept the gift," said George
"So are you coming or not?" Charlie asked Ron
"Well OK if your all going I suppose" said Ron
"Is it OK for you mum, if we all go?" Charlie asked his mother
"Well I don't see any problems if they're going with you" said Mrs. Weasley
"OK, so we leave after lunch," Charlie decided, getting up from the table. "And be ready don't keep us waiting you three" he added to Ron, George, and Fred before leaving the room.
"Well no Quidditch to day then. How about a game of chess Harry?" asked Ron
"Yeah OK, let me go get my chess set," said Harry, running to fetch his chess set
*
The morning passed quickly for Harry, playing chess or laughing at Fred and George's jokes. It seems that Mrs. Weasley had accepted the idea of Fred and George not joining the ministry like Mr. Weasley. The twins were making more noise then ever, and the jokes were getting more interesting.
Soon it was time for lunch and Harry noticed that apart from Percy and Mr. Weasley, who was getting a late lunch, there were other two empty seats at the table.
"Hey Ron, were are Ginny and Bill? I haven't seen them around," Harry whispered
"Bill is in Egypt for work and Ginny went there with him and some school friends on a holiday, they will be back in two weeks," said Ron happily
"Oh. and do you think I should write to Snuffles and Hermione about last night?" Harry asked Ron
"I already wrote to Hermione last night, she went on holiday with her parents I invited her here after her holiday. And Dumbledore wrote to Snuffles explaining what happened, so don't worry too much about anything. Anyway how are your hands?" said Ron
"Oh. I think they're healing now. I don't know why they didn't heal after two weeks," said Harry.
"Well mum makes these bandages. You know with six boys it can come handy, and they nearly heal anything," said Ron
Harry nodded and started to eat his lunch, which was delicious and prepared by Mrs. Weasley. The lunch was uneventful if you didn't count the jokes from Fred and George.
After lunch Harry ran up to his room to prepare for the evening. Harry changed in his best clothes he got, which where a pear of baggy jeans and a green T-shirt. He took his cloak and went down to wait for the others. Charlie was already waiting for them next to the fireplace, but there was no sign of Ron or the twins.
After few minutes Ron, Fred and George came down arguing about something.
"Will you three shut up and get a move on it. We don't have all day," said Charlie, a bit annoyed for having to wait for them
"All right, keep your hair on we're coming," said Fred. Charlie glared at him.
"OK Harry you first, don't forget to speak clearly," said Charlie handing Harry some floo powder
Harry took some floo powder and threw it in to the fire, which turned in to high green flames. Harry stepped in to the warm feeling fire and said "Diagon alley". Once Harry spoke the words the unpleasant spinning started, and he was sucked through the chimney.
After few seconds of spinning Harry stopped and fell, face forward, onto cold stone floor of the Leaky Cauldron. He stood up, and, still shaking, he moved to rest against the wall. He felt extremely dizzy. This definitely was not his favourite way to travel. Soon one by one Charlie, Fred, George and Ron joined Harry; all covered in soot and dizzy.
After resting for few minuets and cleaning themselves with a cleaning charm, they stared walking towards Gringotts to get their money. After a wild ride on the Gringotts cart to where George, Fred and Harry were keeping there gold, Harry went to a counter to change some galleons into Muggle money. Harry didn't like the goblin behind the counter. He didn't seem happy that Harry wanted to change his galleons in to Muggle money and the exchange rate was extremely unfair.
When everyone was outside into the sunlight, Charlie turned to talk to Ron and the twins.
"OK we need to go to the Muggle London so we will leave you here. Don't leave Diagon alley. We will meat at Flourish and Blotts in three hours, OK?" said Charlie
"Flourish and Blotts? But we don't have our school list yet, what do you need from there?" asked Ron
"Err- I wanted to read some books before going back to school that's all," said Harry
"OK we'll meet there," said Ron "this in not going to be a happy evening"
"Oh come on little brother. If you be a good boy, we'll get you an ice- cream" said Fred like he was talking to a five-year-old. Ron looked like he was going to explode but luckily Charlie interrupted him.
"Shall we go Harry?" asked Charlie turning to walk from the Leaky cauldron.
"Sure. See you Ron," said Harry following Charlie, not wanting to witness the Weasley temper.
At the Leaky Cauldron Harry and Charlie took off their cloak and walked out into the Muggle London. It was very busy at this time and Harry didn't know were to go, so he turned to Charlie, who seemed fascinated by all the Muggles.
"Err Charlie? By any chance do you know were we can find a good optician?" asked Harry already knowing the answer by the expression on Charlie's face
"What's an opti-thing?" said Charlie confused
"Oh great!" said Harry looking around.
There were lots of deferent shops: music stores, bookshops, a carpet supplier, bars..... but there was nothing Harry needed to buy there. So Harry walked across the road followed by Charlie, were a taxi was waiting for clients. The driver was a young man on his twenties with black-hear and black eyes, and he looked like he was a pleasant person. Harry approached the driver and asked him for some information.
"Err excuse me? Could you tell me where I can find a good optician please?" Asked Harry politely
"Well you will not find any around here. But if you like I can take you to a good one not too far from hear" said the driver
"Yes I would appreciate it," said Harry
"All right then, get in and I'll take you," he said happily
Harry and Charlie climbed in to the car, and at once the car started to move. Charlie was really exited and kept looking like a small child on his first outing. Along the way Harry started talking to the driver who turned out to be a very nice guy, he was married and have a baby girl named Shantia. Soon the car stopped and in front of them was a very modern optician.
"Well there you go Mr. potter, London Optics. If you need my services I will be here for some time. It was a pleasure knowing you," said the driver.
"Thank you sir the pleasure was mine," said Harry
They paid the driver and walked in to the shop. The shop was huge: all around on the displays there were glasses of all kinds and sizes. Very elegant shop attendants were helping their clients to make their choices. Charlie's eyes went huge wan he saw a very beautiful attendant with blond hear and blue eyes approach them, and Harry started to laugh at him.
"Can I help you gentlemen?" asked the attendant and Charlie gaped at her
Harry elbowed him and spoke to her "Err yes well, I'm interested in getting some contacts and a new pear of glasses"
"If you follow me please I can take your measurements for the contacts and the glasses," she said and gave Charlie a sweet smile and then turned and walked away
Charlie and Harry followed her in to a small room with strange equipment. It took them nearly half an hour to take the necessary measurements for the glasses and the contacts.
After the attendant helped Harry to put on his new contacts and tell him how to use the cleaners, they walked to the displays to choose his new frame for his glasses. Harry was still getting used to the contacts and kept blinking and rubbing his eyes. Whilst Harry was choosing his new glasses he noticed that Charlie was engaged in a conversation with the shop attendant and both of them were smiling at each outer. Minutes passed and his choice were of the same shape of his old ones but they were rimless. Both Charlie and the attendant agreed with his choice and said that they didn't hide his eyes.
"Sir it will only take an hour to finish your glasses. If you like you can wait or come back later for them" said the attendant
"We will come back for them after an hour if you don't mind" said Harry
"Its not a problem. See you soon then sir," she said, and gave Charlie another sweet smile
After paying for the glasses and the contacts they went out to look for a taxi. Harry looked around and noticed that the taxi with which they came here was still waiting and Harry approached the driver.
"Hello again Mr. Potter where can I take you now" said the driver
"Well can you take us to a good place to buy some clothes please," said Harry
"Sure. I know just the place for you" said the driver and with that the car was moving once again through London.
On the way to there next shop Charlie looked thoughtful and Harry was wondering if it has anything to do with that shop attendant.
"Hay Charlie what's wrong?" asked Harry
"Oh nothing. it's just-"
"That you like the shop attendant?" Harry finished for him "Is that it?" he added
"Well. I think so," he mumbled and Harry laughed
"You know Charlie I think she noticed you too" Harry said trying not to laugh "why don't you ask her out when we go back there?" he added
"I don't know Harry, what if she says no," he said
"What if she says yes," said Harry "you never know if you don't ask her"
"I think Mr. Potter is right sir. You will never know if you don't ask," said the driver with a chuckle
"And you have noting to loose," added Harry.
After that no one said a word until they arrived in front the shop. Harry paid the taxi driver and asked if he could wait for them. The driver nodded politely.
When Harry entered the store his mouth dropped open when he saw all the clothes around him. He had never seen so many clothes in his life let alone in one place. Soon an old man who seemed the owner of the store approached them.
"How can I help you gentlemen?" he asked
"I'm interested in purchasing some new clothes to renew my wardrobe," said Harry and a big smile appeared on the man's face.
"Yes I understand sir. If you follow me pleas," said the old man.
Harry followed the old men around the three-story shop to see the clothes the old men suggested. And after some time Harry followed him in to a small room to try his new clothing. Harry took nearly an hour trying out new clothes and see how he looked in a large mirror in the room. Harry had to try all sorts of clothing, jeans, trousers, T-shirts, shirts, shorts, shoes, trainers, boots and even some boxer shorts and a new pyjama. Every item that the old man suggested seemed to be dark coloured, most of them were black, but they suited him perfectly. It was strange for Harry to have new clothes, and without his glasses he nearly didn't recognise himself in the mirror.
After selecting a pear of black trousers and shirt to put on, he paid the old men for the clothes and went out of the shop carrying bags full of clothes. Harry and Charlie took the taxi back to the optician so they can take the glasses. The ride only took few minutes and soon they were waiting for Harry's new glasses, and Charlie was once again talking to the blond shop attendant.
When the glasses were ready and Harry was satisfied with them, he called for Charlie so they could go back. It took him few more minutes to drag Charlie out of the shop and into the taxi.
On their way back to the Leaky Caldron Harry asked, "Did you ask her?"
Charlie smiled and said "Yes,"
"Well? What did she say?" Harry asked and Charlie smiled broadly but didn't answer "She said yes!"
"I knew it," said Harry happily "When are you going out? Come on tell me!"
"Sorry Harry it's none of your business" he said chuckling "But thanks," and Harry smiled at him
"Do you think I should tell the twins about this?" asked Harry trying to pay him back for teasing him that morning.
"Yes. Go on and tell them, but rest assured, Ginny will get to know how we found you last night with every detail," said Charlie
"OK you won, I will keep quiet," said Harry and Charlie laughed
"Well I can't guarantee she won't find out anyway," Charlie laughed
Once back, Harry thanked the driver and walked into the Leaky cauldron. They put on their cloaks, and Charlie charmed one of the bags so the others would fit in it so would only have to carry one.
Harry only head two things to do before meeting with Ron and the twins and there was still an hour. He needed a haircut and Harry know were he could go. Madam Terry magical hear-stilling was not far from the Leaky Cauldron and soon Harry was sitting having his hair cut.
The haircut didn't take much time and soon Harry was outside. His hair was cut short with a fringe covering his forehead; it was still a bit messy but it was combed backwards. His new look really suited him, his black trousers and shirt and now his new haircut made his brilliant green eyes stand out on his pale face, and there were no glasses to hide them.
"You know Harry," said Charlie after they walked out of the hair-stiller "I think your next year is going to be rough for you"
"Why do you say that?" asked Harry a bit worried thinking about last night.
"Well, how are you going to keep all your female fans away now that you look so good?" laughed Charlie and Harry turned red but stayed silent. "Where do you need to do now, we still have more than half an hour"
"Err- I need to go to Knockturn alley" said Harry in a whisper and Charlie gave him a stern look.
"Why do you want to go to Knockturn alley? It's dangerous there, especially for you." said Charlie so only Harry could hear him.
"I know that, but I need to get some books and I will not find them in Flourish and Blotts, besides we will keep our hoods up so no one will know its us. Please Charlie it's important that I get those books, I don't want to go alone," said Harry
Charlie thought for few minutes and then said, "What are those books for?"
"Sorry Charlie I can't tell you, but I need them" he said
"I don't like this, but I will come with you," said Charlie, and Harry smiled at him
"Thanks Charlie" said Harry and left to Knockturn alley.
With their hoods up all the time Harry and Charlie made there way through Knockturn alley. Harry and Charlie kept on the side trying not to attract too much attention on themselves until they came in front an old shop with a book on display. The book was written in some kind of brown reddish ink, or that's what he thought it was until Charlie said "blood". Inside the atmosphere was very eerie with all the strange looking volumes. Some of theme where made of what seemed to be human flash and some could be heard whispering incantations.
Harry gave a shiver and started to look around the shelves, searching for something of interest. After Harry looked around the shelves he was holding four volumes on the dark arts. One of them was on parseltounge, it was made of snakeskin and it had to be spoken in parseltounge to open the book. Other two were quite ordinary, which were on dark charms and transfiguration spells, and the last one was on potions.
When Harry was satisfied with his selection he moved to the counter where an old man was reading one of the books bound in human flesh, and showed him the books. The old man one after the other scanned the books and packed them in to a black leather beg, but stopped to look at the last one. He looked at the snakeskin bound book and then at Harry suspiciously.
"I only know two persons in this century who can open this book. One of them, I think he already knows every thing on the subject, but the other....." he said very calmly looking at Harry suspiciously
"I collect rare books" said Harry in and arrogant voice and trying to sound confident with the place hoping not to be recognised "So what's the cost for the books?"
The old man gave him a knowing smile and spoke "Fifteen galleons. Mr.-?"
Harry gave him the money and took the bag form the counter and turned to leave.
"If you need any more rare books don't hesitate to come back, " said the old man "It will be a pleasure to help you out young man."
Harry ignored him and left the shop and met Charlie outside. Both of them, without talking, walked their way to Diagon alley.
"What happened in there? you look like you've seen a ghost!" asked Charlie after they reached Diagon alley and took their hoods down. Harry looked at him and after few minuets he told him what happened in the shop.
"So that what you wanted to buy, a book on parseltounge?" said Charlie and Harry nodded "Well that wasn't a bad idea you know."
"You approve that I bought a book like that?" asked Harry surprised
"Yes. Harry you have a gift, so why shouldn't you use it? All because of the prejudice of some wizards, honestly Harry....." he said and Harry smiled at him. Charlie was one of the few people who didn't think less of him only because he was a parselmouth. "So are you going to get a pet snake?" asked Charlie happily
"I don't know if I should you know, I would like to....." said Harry sadly "But we're already late to meet the others....."
"Oh come on my brothers can wait for half an hour. And you can't practice what's in the book without a snake. I know a perfect place were you can get one, an old friend of mine. He will be very happy to meet you," said Charlie pulling Harry along the road.
They walked for few minutes and turned in to a small side street at the end of Diagon alley. When Charlie stopped Harry found himself in a shop full with magical creatures. There were all the ordinary pets like owls, cats, rats, toads, and bats, but then there were others like giant spiders, salamanders and nifflers. Charlie moved to the counter where there was a man with blond short hair, with some scars on his face.
"Charlie Weasley! It's been a long time since you were young. Always coming to look at the creatures! So tell me, what brings you hear after so long?" said the man at the counter
"Hello Roger how are you?" said Charlie happily "Well young Harry here is looking for a snake, can you suggest anything?" when Roger heard Harry's name, he launched at Harry and grabbed his hand and started shaking it.
"Its an honour to meet you Mr. Potter its an honour," Roger said shaking Harry's hand, and for some moments Harry thought he was going to rip his hand off. "Please Mr. Potter follow me I will show you what I have available," he added leaving Harry's hand and ran in to a small room behind the counter.
Harry looked at Charlie confused and he laughed at Harry before following his friend in the room. Harry slowly followed them into the room. The room was cooler then the rest of the shop, and all around there were glass tanks with snakes in them. Every glass tank was containing a deferent species of snake, and they were all sleeping peacefully on paces of wood or grass inside the tanks. Roger and Charlie were looking at one of the snakes with dark grey scaly skin that was sleeping wrapped round a piece of wood. It was in a glass tank and it was nearly three feet long and it had something like small horns next to his eyes. Harry never saw a snake like that and when he went closer Harry thought it head something different from the other snakes, something special.
"What kind of snake is that?" asked Harry
Roger smiled at Harry "that is a Healing Gaboon, it lives in Africa and it's very rare."
"Healing Gaboon? Dose it have healing powers?" Harry asked moving closer to the glass thank, and get a clear view.
"Not exactly. Its venom is not very poisonous since it only eats small pray, but if it is mixed with an infusion of bloodroot it has the same effect of a phoenix tear" said Roger
"Hello what is your name?" said Harry in parseltounge
"YOU'RE A PARSELMOUTH?!?!?" shouted Roger and Harry looked at him. His face looked very surprised.
"I told you Charlie. Everyone will think I'm some evil person," said Harry dully but Charlie smiled at him.
"No it's not that. Its that I didn't know, you kind of surprised me that's all....." said Roger giving Harry a smile, which Harry returned.
"Well I thought that by now everyone knows with what that Rita Skeeter wrote on me some time ago," said Harry
"Ah, I understand your problem now. Well Mr. Potter I am one of the many persons that think that Rita Skeeter is a stupid cow, and I don't read her articles," said Roger happily and gave Harry a reassuring smile. Then Harry heard hissing and turned to look at the snake to find him awake and looking at him.
"I don't have a name," hissed the snake
"Oh, well my name is Harry Potter. Do you want to come with me as my pet?" Harry asked the snake
"I would like you to be my massster, Harry Potter. Itsss too cold for me hear and I don't like to ssstay behind thisss glasssss" said the snake
"You can stay around my body if you like to keep warm" said Harry in parseltounge
"I would like that Harry Potter," said the snake
"I like him he's nice. Can I take him?" said Harry turning to Roger
"Yes he is yours, but you need to give him a name. Do you have any idea of what to call him?" said Roger
"Yes I think I know the perfect name for him 'Aesculapius,' " said Harry
"Ah yes, the god of medicine good choice Harry," said Charlie
"What do you think if I name you Aesculapius after the god of medicine, but I will call you Aescul for short," said Harry to the snake
"Yesss I like it massster" said the snake after some thought
"He likes it," said Harry.
Roger nodded and opened the glass tank for Harry to take Aescul in his hands. Harry lowered his hand in the glass thank and Aescul wrapped himself around his arm. He kept moving up under his sleeve and then positioned himself around Harry's neck and poked his head out from his shirt.
"I think he likes it around my neck," said Harry and both Roger and Charlie laughed.
After Harry paid for his new pet and said goodbye to Roger, Harry and Charlie ran to Flourish and Blotts to meet with Ron and the twins. They were more then thirty minutes late and they were on the other side of Diagon alley. When they finally arrived at Flourish and Blotts they fund them outside the shop waiting.
"At last Charlie where have you been and where is Harry-," said George but stopped and gaped at Harry as did Ron and Fred, and both Harry and Charlie started to laugh at them.
"Wow! What happened to you man, you look. different," said Ron after finding his voice.
"Oh come on, I only changed some clothes and got a haircut what's so different," said Harry.
"Harry? Do you know that you have a snake poking out from your shirt?" said Fred
"Oh yes this is Aesculapius, but I call him Aescul he is my new pet he is very nice," explained Harry. And all three of them kept gaping at Harry and at the snake.
After few seconds of gaping, Harry got annoyed and went in to the shop to get the books he needed from there. It only took him few minutes to get the books he needed. He already know the title of the books, and brought the books to the counter to pay for them. Soon all five of them were heading back to the leaky caldron to floo back to the Burrow. This time Harry was going to use the floo after the twins and Ron. So, after holding securely the bags with his new cloths and books and telling Aescul to hold on tight to him, Harry was stepped in to the fire and called 'the Burrow'. The spinning started and Harry was off on his way to the Burrow. It only took few seconds and Harry found himself face down on the floor covered in soot. He was helped on his feet by Fred and George and rested for few seconds against the mantelpiece. At that moment Mrs. Weasley entered the room and gave Harry a good look and said
"Well Harry that is a nice change. Why don't you go and refresh your self before dinner? It will be ready in few minutes" she said and Harry nodded and left for his room.
After taking his new clothes and books out from the begs, he went to have a quick shower. Once clean he chose a pear of dark blue jeans and a green shirt and put Aescul around his neck and went down for diner. At dinner Mrs. Weasley didn't seem very happy about Aescul, but soon she seemed to accept him.
After diner Harry and Ron played a game of chess before going to bed and Mrs. Weasley prepared some dreamless sleep potion for Harry for that night. Harry was glad to be able to sleep that night, the day was full and Harry was tired.
Getting in to bed Harry thought of the Dursleys and imagined the look on there faces when they found out that he had disappeared, and gave a laugh. He was happy now, he was away from the Dursleys and tonight he would not have any dreams. 'Thanks Dumbledore for letting me stay at the Burrow," he thought happily
"Well Good night Aescul," said Harry to the snake who was moving around under the sheets
"Good night massster," said Aescul and Harry took the potion and fell in to a deep, dreamless sleep.
*
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