Disclaimer: This is purely a writing exercise borrowing the background and characters from the Harry Potter series by J.K Rowling. The only profit I hope to make is my own personal satisfaction.

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Summary: Summer after 5th year, Harry enters the adult world. He learns to trust, himself and others, as the war approaches and chaos reigns. (not slash) (hp/?)(hg/rw)

*** Important A/N at the end of the Chapter***

Chapter 5: Finally, A Good Summer?

Harry was feeling rather pleased with himself. All of Dudley's cast-off and broken toys were already shrunk to fit in a shoebox. His second hand clothes were looking a bit more respectable with the liberal usage of shrinking and patching charms. And best of all, his little bedroom was quite inaccessible to the Dursley's thanks to several muggle repelling charms he had found in one of Dumbledore's defense books. At the moment Harry was considering adding some of the same charms to the refrigerator to help his corpulent cousin with his diet. Sighing wistfully as he put the thought aside, he tied the letters he had completed the night before to Hedwig's feet. It was time for his morning walk with Remus. Harry put on his battered trainers and silently made his way out of the house.

Remus was waiting outside with a shy smile of greeting.

"Morning Professor! Umm I mean Remus" The idea of having a former professor as a friend was slightly disconcerting.

"Morning, Harry. Want to go to the park today? Grass is much easier on the knees than pavement."

Harry nodded and followed Remus. It was a fairly short walk, but the pace set by his companion was enough for Harry to break out in sweat. After about half an hour of pace walking in the park, Harry was all set for a break. This hadn't been what he had envisioned when he had asked Dumbledore about taking walks. Remus seemed to notice Harry's exhaustion, and led the way off the path to a spot under the trees.

"Not in very good shape are you?" Remus teased.

Too tired to respond, Harry lay down flat on the cool grass with a scowl.

"Well I can't really blame you. However, I think I can offer a solution if you are interested in getting in better shape that is."

Harry groaned in reply as he massaged his sore legs.

"Very articulate in the morning I see. In any case, I did teach physical training for a while after Hogwarts, and there are a lot of advantages of being in good shape."

The last thing Harry wanted was getting his peaceful walk turned into a training regimen for defeating Voldemort. "What? So I can dodge curses faster? I thought you were here as a friend, not as an instructor for the Order!"

"Well that is true, but you do have naturally good reflexes in any case. I was thinking mostly about quidditch and girls." The sly grin on Remus' face was something Harry had never seen before. He couldn't help but laugh at the thought of his former professor helping him with girls.

"But seriously," Remus continued after a few chuckles, "staying healthy and getting healthy can actually be fun. I have always found it a nice way to put away all my worries and focus on one thing. I think I know what you were looking for when you asked Dumbledore about taking walks. You wanted to brood while you feet took you places. Well, I think a much better use of this time would be as a break from those thoughts."

Harry didn't respond immediately, but lay back down on the grass. Remus was right about the brooding thing. He had done that most of last summer and he realized that it wasn't the most productive use of his time out of doors. He had the rest of the day when he was cooped up inside to brood. Getting in better shape for quidditch also sounded rather appealing except for the life time ban he was under. And the girl thing, he could do without. Dating Cho had been a nightmare, and he wanted to avoid visits to Madam Puddifoot's at all costs. Sighing in defeat he turned towards his old professor and said, "I guess you are right. So what do I have to do? More walking?"

Remus' face was split by a wide grin. "Walking is good, but jogging is better. A little bit of weight training wouldn't hurt, nor would a little bit of aerobics."

"Aerobics?" Harry was horrified at the image of himself dancing like the women in Aunt Petunia's exercise videos.

Remus' grin turned into curiosity. "Why what's wrong with that?"

"You don't expect me to prance about in a leotard to some awful music do you?"

Realization dawned on Remus' face. "Oh! Not that kind of aerobics! I was thinking of some stretching exercises, resistance work, and some martial arts movements. It's a system I kind of developed when I was teaching. We can start with some basic stretching right now."

Almost an hour and a half later, a haggard, dehydrated and sore Harry pushed in through the back door of Number 4, Privet Drive. Remus had made him jog after finishing with the stretching. There had been more exercises after the jog, and Harry felt like a limp sponge. Groaning, he made his way to the shower. The hot water felt delicious on his sore muscles. Remus had warned him that the muscles were going to be sorer the day after. He had to shower and dress quickly as he was heading back out to Mrs. Figg's for breakfast with Remus.

Mrs. Figg was nowhere in sight when Harry finally got to her strange cat infested house. Remus led the way to the backyard explaining that he didn't spend much time inside as the smell of the house bothered him. The back yard was quite a contrast to the weed infested unkempt front lawn. Mrs. Figg had a nice, well maintained kitchen garden, and what looked suspiciously like a plot for potions ingredients. Remus had set up a nice awning with picnic chairs and a table loaded with food. Harry was famished and fell upon the food with gusto. No one spoke till the last morsel had been cleared away.

"Harry, I fire-talked with Albus while you were showering back at your relatives. He was rather pleased that you have agreed to spend some time on physical training. He also agreed to my suggestion that I prepare your meals for you."

A sudden flash of rage welled up inside Harry at the mention of Dumbledore. He clenched his teeth to keep from shouting. "Why does it matter if he is pleased? Don't you think he planned this all along! He is using you to get to me train for the coming war. Can't you see that?"

Harry watched as Remus' eyes hardened and his face flushed with anger. He immediately realized that Dumbledore was a sore topic for Remus. Several moments passed with neither looking at the other. Finally, Remus cleared his voice.

"Hmm, I thought we covered this yesterday. Yes, it is true that Dumbledore gave me a push in this direction, but what I am doing I am doing it for you and for me. Dumbledore's approval is important because despite his past mistakes, he is doing his best to look out for you. I have never doubted his intentions, and let me tell you that it is very hard to lie to a werewolf. However, it doesn't mean I blindly agree with all of Dumbledore's plans and ideas, and neither should you." The look of pain that crosses Remus' features sent a shiver up Harry's spine. Now he knew where the sore spot was. He had guessed it, but he finally had confirmation.

Remus continued, "Harry, I know and understand your problems with Dumbledore, but give the man a chance. He has given a lot of people chances, and he deserves one himself. He knows he has made a huge mistake regarding you... and Sirius. He is trying, Harry. However, I am here as well. I know I will never be a replacement for your father and Sirius, but I am here as a friend. If there is anything you need to talk to me about, even if it is your reservations about Dumbledore, I will be glad to listen."

As usual, the power of speech forsook Harry. He nodded mutely. His doubts about Dumbledore were numerous and insidious. However, the old man did deserve a chance. It was hard to keep in mind that Dumbledore was a man, and that he was allowed some failings and mistakes. It was hard though, to forgive mistakes that had such harsh consequences. He looked up to see Remus studying his face. Upon meeting, Harry's eyes, the older man gave him a wan smile.

"As I was saying, Dumbledore likes the idea of you engaging in physical training. I also talked to him about your diet, and he has agreed to let me prepare your meals as long as you have the majority of them at the Dursley's. I am not sure why he added that condition, but I can make a few guesses. I was thinking that I would cook the meals here to avoid upsetting your aunt and have them together in your room. So what do you think?"

Harry was startled with the new development. He was actually rather pleased. Remus was a much better cook than Aunt Petunia, and the idea of being able to avoid future meals and the associated discomfort of sitting at the same table as his relatives was quite good. However, a niggling doubt entered his head. "Umm Remus, I don't want to be a bother  ... erm  ... financially." Harry knew full well that Remus wasn't well off and did not want to burden him with the expenses of procuring food for himself over the summer.

Remus smiled. "Dumbledore must have had the same idea. He released necessary funds from your account to me for this arrangement. I wasn't sure of how to bring this up, but thank you. Are you ok with starting this arrangement for dinner tonight? I have to go to Diagon Alley to retrieve the funds and pick up some supplies."

Harry nodded, relieved. He knew he had enough gold in his account to last him a lifetime. The mention of Diagon Alley made him realize that he was sorely missing some essential items.

"Hey could you do me a couple of favors while you are down in Diagon Alley please?" Seeing, Remus nod, he continued, "Could you pick up some things from there for me? I will make a list for you." Remus conjured some parchment and a quill in response. Harry started working on the list. He desperately needed fresh owl treats for Hedwig. She had contemptuously turned down his offerings the last few days, preferring to hunt for her own food. He was also running short of parchment and ink. Harry jotted down the other odds and ends he needed for the summer, and handed the list to Remus.

The rest of the morning, the two just sat under the shade of the awning exchanging idle chitchat. Soon it was time for Harry to head back to his relatives' and for Remus to go to Diagon Alley.

Harry made his way back to Dursley's and announced that he wouldn't be taking his meals with them. His Aunt, who had been peering out of the kitchen window at the neighbors before he arrived, sniffed disdainfully and muttered something about it being time that he ceased being a burden to his uncle. Harry shrugged and made up his mind to not bother with his self imposed chores. With the free time on his hands, Harry decided to catch up on the reading Dumbledore had assigned him.

Harry was in the midst of a rather pleasant dream involving chocolate frogs catching snitches with their tongues when he was woken by a gentle touch to his shoulder. His wand was immediately in his hands as he tried to focus his blurry eyes at the intruder. It was Dumbledore. Harry sheepishly put his wand away as he took in the surroundings. He was sprawled out on his bed with one of the defense books beside him. The sky outside his window was already turning dark. He must have fallen asleep for several hours.

"I used to love my afternoon naps. Alas, I rarely ever have time to take one these days." Dumbledore smiled at Harry and conjured up a chair and a tray of tea goods.

Harry excused himself and went to the bathroom to freshen up. He had never been in the habit of afternoon naps, but the unaccustomed physical activity probably had something to do with it. He decided to schedule a time for napping in the afternoons. Dumbledore was out of his chair and examining his door when Harry finally stumbled back to his room.

"Ah anti-muggle charms! Quite nicely done." Dumbledore ambled back to his chair and poured a cup of tea for Harry.

"Umm Hello Professor, I must have fallen asleep while reading."

"Oh don't worry about it. You will probably need some extra sleep with all the physical training you are doing with Remus. Oh that reminds me of something." So saying Dumbledore reaching into one of his voluminous pockets and pulled out what looked like a toothpick. With a murmured incantation the object transformed into Harry's Firebolt. "I believe you left this behind. Of course, your ban has been rescinded as well. I hope you can have some fun playing quidditch this coming year."

Harry accepted his Firebolt gingerly. The broom brought back too many memories, both good and bad. Harry forced a smile back at his headmaster and said, "Thank you for that Professor. Is this the surprise you wrote to me about?"

Dumbledore who had been watching Harry curiously shook his head. "No this was not the surprise I had in mind. The broom, and the right to play belong to you, and I hope that you are not surprised that there are people who care enough to return them to you. Nor will I accept thanks, as I was unable to prevent this from happening in the first place." Dumbledore's face was full of sadness, but he continued with a slightly happier tone, "The real surprise that I have planned is a field trip set for tomorrow."

Harry perked up. "A field trip? Where are we going?"

Dumbledore smiled and replied, "You are going to the Weasley's tomorrow evening."

Harry couldn't help but smile and scratch his head in confusion at the same time. Seeing Harry's confusion, Dumbledore chuckled softly.

"Yes, I know this is a surprising turn of events. You must be wondering why I am calling a trip to your best friend's house a field trip. Well, it is going to be first and foremost, an educational trip. Mr. Weasley has kindly agreed to bring you up to date on wizarding politics."

Harry's confusion was growing wider and wider and it was probably apparent on his face.

"Yes, Harry, you heard me right, Arthur Weasley will teach you about the political landscape of the wizarding world. It is necessary believe me. The war against Voldemort and his supporters will not only be fought on the battlefield, it will also be fought in the political and legal arena. In fact, you have already been a victim of the political battle. The political battle that is brewing is probably going to shape the things that are to come."

Harry realized that Dumbledore was talking about the defamation campaign launched against him by the Ministry the previous year.

Dumbledore continued, "Unfortunately, Harry, you will most likely have to fight and maybe even lead in all these fronts. I have made a promise to myself to help you to prepare for what is to come, and I believe political knowledge will be extremely crucial for you as you will get dragged into the arena whether you like it or not."

Harry was stunned. He had never even considered that he would have to get involved in politics to fight Voldemort. He had never had any good experiences with the ministry and had therefore, tried his best to ignore its presence. The cynic in him, however, immediately realized that he was already involved in politics when he had agreed to do the Quibbler interview. Knowing what he was dealing with seemed like a rather good idea. "How am I going to get there?" he asked.

Dumbledore reached into his pockets for a second time and pulled out a battered old book and handed it to Harry.

"This book is set up as a portkey and will activate at noon tomorrow to take you to the Burrow. I will arrange for some other means of travel on the return trip. It is good not to use the same method for traveling both ways."

Harry looked at the book at noted that it was a book about the development of the wizarding government in Britain.

"Now Harry, if you don't have any more questions, I think I would like to bring up the next topic."

Harry nodded for Dumbledore to continue. As usual, after talking with Dumbledore, his head was buzzing with questions, but he decided to put them aside for the moment.

Dumbledore delved into his robes again and came up with a familiar watch like object. It was a time-turner.

Nodding at the recognition in Harry's eyes, Dumbledore said, "As you can see, I have managed to procure a time-turner for our exercises. You see, I am quite convinced that Tom will not try to invade your mind at this point in time; however, there is no reason to take chances. My plan is to use one hour to study less important subjects while I monitor you for any signs of possession and then use the time-turner to go back to the beginning of the previously monitored time period to continue your Occlumency studies. Actually, at this moment, I think that you and I are probably engaged in Occlumency training in the basement."

Harry was speechless at the genius of the plan.

Dumbledore's eyes twinkled merrily as he took in Harry's slack jawed reaction. "Quite an ingenious little plan isn't it? So, Harry, if you are ready, I think I will start monitoring you now."

Harry nodded and watched as Dumbledore pulled out his wand and drew gleaming circle around his head. Dumbledore then proceeded to mutter incantations as he waved the wand in front of Harry's eyes. There was a brief moment of blankness and then it was over.

"The charms I have set up, are very short in duration, and are frankly not very useful in your case due to the fact that the bond between you and Tom is based on a magical scar. Therefore, I would like you to pay close attention to your own mind for this hour and let me know if you feel any foreign intrusion."

Harry remembered the feeling of the coiled snake inside of him the last year and searched around in his mind for a similar feeling. He realized that he had not felt anything of that nature since the incident at the Ministry. "I will do that Professor. Umm so what are we going to do now?"

Dumbledore smiled and picked up the book on meditation from Harry's desk. "Have you been reading this?"

Harry nodded as he replied. "Oh yes. I think I managed to meditate once while I was not trying to do it, but I have never managed to do it again. But Professor, what does meditation have to do with Occlumency?"

"Ah I am pleased that you have made some progress. Don't fret if you can't seem to do it again. However, to answer your question, meditation itself might not have much to do with Occlumency, but it gives one an idea of how to clear one's head. You see Harry, Leglimency is magic, and meditation alone cannot stop someone from reading your mind as it is not magic. However, it is a good starting point for learning how to control one's thoughts."

The rest of the hour went by in discussing more theory, except for one interruption when Pig fluttered in hooting with a letter from Ron.

At the end of the hour, Dumbledore stood up and beckoned Harry to follow him. The headmaster led Harry quietly to the bathroom. There he passed the chain of the time-tuner around Harry's head and wound the little object up. A brief flash later, they were in the same room, except that the light was turned off. Harry led Dumbledore down to the basement. The Dursley's, luckily were at dinner, and the kitchen door was closed.

In the basement, Dumbledore, soundproofed the room and conjured up a pair of chairs facing each other. The lesson plan was quite simple. Dumbledore used Leglimency on Harry, and he had to block it out. It was quite like Snape's lessons except that it was nicer. Dumbledore did not try to pry into Harry's painful memories, but concentrated on his time at the muggle primary school. After about forty five minutes of exhausting practice, Dumbledore let up.

"Quite well done, Harry! However, you must remember that this was an easy lesson. I will be increasing the force of my attacks with every lesson, and as much as it pains me to do so, one day I will also have to attack your most closely guarded memories. However, I will wait till I think you can cope with those kinds of attacks."

"I understand Professor." Harry replied. If only Snape had taught him with the same kind of consideration!

Dumbledore started speaking again, critiquing his technique and offering him helpful advice. He then offered himself up as a subject for Harry to cast the leglimens curse to get a feel of how it worked. This was the best lesson Harry had ever had.

Finally, after the hour was over, Dumbledore led Harry back up to his room. As he passed the empty bathroom with its light on, the realization that he had actually lived two hours while only one had gone by, struck him. It was rather disorienting, and he wondered how Hermione had managed it for an entire year. Back in the room, Dumbledore, reminded him to practice Occlumency before going to bed before bidding him goodbye and popping away.

Almost immediately after Dumbledore's departure, there was another crack as Remus appeared out of the thin air into his bedroom with a fully loaded picnic basket.

"Dinner's been ready for a while, but I was waiting for Dumbledore to leave," Remus announced with a smile.

They sat and enjoyed a delicious dinner while Remus explained how he was formulating Harry's diet. The conversation turned to the quality of the ingredients and Remus told Harry how his werewolf senses helped him pick out the best ingredients. Other stories about the uses of his senses followed and soon Harry was laughing uproariously.

After he helped Remus clear the dishes away, Remus brought out his other purchases from Diagon Alley. Along with the items on his list, Remus had bought a new pair of trainers and some exercise clothes for Harry. Remus showed Harry how the trainers adjusted once to the owner's correct size and stayed that way.

It was almost midnight before Remus left and Harry finally had time to sit back and reflect on the past day. His summer was turning out better than he had ever hoped.

A/N Ok I have a lot of notes to add to this chapter.

First of all, a heartfelt thanks to all reviewers! Thank you very much for taking the time to encourage my writing. Also a special thanks to SleepsInOctober for pointing out the rather stupid mistake I made when I tried to post the fourth chapter. What you guys saw there was the original idea for this story. I was trying to do a Dumbledore and Harry POV look at the summer following the fifth year. However, after reading Dzetoun's Here be Monsters, I decided to leave Dumbledore POV to my betters. He is one of the hardest characters to write.

In any case, I had a specific question for you guys. I don't know if you have noticed, but in all scenes with Harry, I have tried to stick to his POV. However, I also feel the necessity to express other people's POV, and I have done so in scenes where Harry is not present. What I want some feedback on is the readability of the story so far. Would you guys prefer it if I change it to multiple POVs in every scene or should I leave it as a mostly Harry POV fic?