Chapter 3 - An ordered Reunion.

It was well into August before any wizard came to collect Harry and he was getting very frustrated. He had not received any more owls from Hermione or Ron and began to think that they were ignoring him again, like last year. He had written a long letter to Lupin, explaining about Malfoy's visit and the strange ghoulish creature in his bedroom. He had expected a reply straight away but he had heard nothing. He had looked around number 4 Privet Drive for any sign of Dobby the House Elf but he found nothing. Dobby had stolen Harry's mail in his second year, trying to protect him. How he longed to see Dobby now, thought Harry, his heart once again heavy. Anyone from the magic world! Even Malfoy again! Hell, he could bring his son Draco if he wanted!! Harry laughed quietly, no even he wasn't that desperate.

The Dursleys had kept out of his way since the incident in the kitchen. Dudley had teased him for a while about being floored by one punch but Harry had ignored his jibes and Dudley had soon got bored. Harry had much more to be worried about than cruel comments by his stupid cousin. He was scared, really scraed and noone was there to help him. He did feel different to last year somehow though. He knew Hermione and Ron would be with him if they could be and this worried him even more.

Finally, 2 weeks before should was due to start again, it happened. At last he was free again. He heard his Uncle say "If you wouldn't mind waiting, Ill see if Potter is about" with as much good grace as he could muster. Harry bounded down the stairs with his trunk, colliding with his Uncle at the bottom.

"Stupid, Idiot boy!" Vernon snapped at Harry as he pulled his nephew to his feet. "Some of your kind are at the front door. You behave yourself, you understand? No need to let on about any family rows, is there". He then glared at Harry waiting for a reply. Harry merely glanced back then headed to the front door.

"Stop Potter," Vernon hissed, grabbing Harrys arm. "Did you hear me? You wont be allowed here next year if you mention anything, then Lord Voldywassit will be able to do you in, so that crazy old fool told Petunia, do you understand me". Harry nodded his head and Vernon let him go.

Harry walkd towards the door then stopped and turned back. "I wont mention that I was punched by a muggle, don't worry." His eyes were burring into Vernons as he continued. "I wish I didn't have to come here every summer, you have no idea how much I long to never see you again. There is one thing I will say to you though, Uncle, one day I wont be a pupil, I will be a fully trained wizard, capable of many things you cant imagine. And who knows, one day I may darken your doorstep again. Am I making myself clear?" and with that he grabbed his trunk and headed to the door leaving Vernon foaming at the mouth behind him.

Harry pulled open the front door and saw, with some delight, Mad Eye Moony and Remus Lupin talking together on the threshold with their backs to him. He coughed loudly and laughed when they both jumped.

"Harry!" beamed Lupin and shook the boys hand. "How have you been" he said more quietly.

Harry looked down at the ground an answered with a soft "alright Professor, thank you."

"Potter", growled Moody, "lets have a look at you, how have those damn muggles been treating you"?

"Fine Professor, really. Can we go now, I just want to get away from here and back to the real world, please?" Harry said, his eyes pleading.

Lupin smiled and took Harrys trunk and led the way. Moody pulled at Harrys arm and the three of them were then on their way.

"About your letter Harry, Im sorry I couldn't reply to you. Although the minister of magic no longer checks every letter, there are those who still do, we have to be careful". Lupin chatted to Harry as they went along but Harry could hardly listen. He just wanted to know where his friends were, where Dumbledore was.

"Here we are". He stopped abruptly and picked up an old coke can. Harry knew this must be a port key and look questioningly and Moody who was beside him.

"Ask no questions Potter, you don't know who is listening". With that, Lupin grabbed Harry, as did Moody and they all touched the can and disappeared.

That's the end of Chapter 3. Not to exciting I know but stick with me, Ive got some good plans, really! If you read this - thanks. Now please review cos Id like to know if you would do anything differently!