Chapter 12
Harry flew fast into the forest. Daisy had a large lead and he needed to catch up. It did occur to him at one point that flying at top speeds in a forest was not smart, but five years of Quidditch training allowed him reasonable confidence. Since he didn't smack into any trees, it was probably justified.
He followed the swatch of purple on the ground ahead of him. He was catching her. And then a bird called, a raven. Daisy stop in an area of trees that had thinned on the path to almost form a clearing.
The raven called again, and Daisy called back. Her cry sounded just like the real bird. The animal flew to her and landed on her out stretched arm.
"Come to lend a little moral support?" she asked
It answered with a low chirpy noise, almost miserable if you weren't listening.
Daisy laughed. "No, I can't fly with you today. I have business in the forest. Wanna be my look out?"
The Bird cried loudly at this and flapped its wings.
She laughed, "I know it's dangerous." Then she made chirping noises. "And besides you'll be with me."
Harry watched as they walked a way, wondering what some one who talks to birds is called. Once they had a safe lead he followed again.
As Harry followed, Daisy had a sense of being watched. However it wasn't Harry that she sensed. She was nearing her goal and they would have been watching for a good ten minutes before they made move to put her at ease.
She was no threat, and they new it. She reasoned they would probably know she was coming. They seemed to know everything. That was she why going to them.
Centaurs, why did it have to be centaurs? What was it Hagrid said? Ruddy stargazers. Can't get a straight answer outta them. And he she was going for answers. But if they could help her make sense of anything it would be worth it.
The bird on her shoulder clicked softly in her ear.
"Yes, I know the horsemen are watching."
It clicked at her again.
This time she stopped and clicked back. 'A broomstick?' she asked.
'Not know broomstick. Know boy on flying branch. Want Daisy to fly with Midnight.'
'Later my friend,' she clicked back,
So Harry must have spotted her. Well, the centaurs were already watching. She couldn't turn back.
'I just hope he doesn't do anything stupid,' she thought.
Daisy approached the centaurs' village. It really was a little village just sitting in the forest for anyone to find. Anyone that is who could find the right path, pass through all the traps, and convince the guards they weren't a threat before they shot in intruder. There was a reason the Zodiac symbol of the Archer was a centaur. And she was a Sagittarius, and a Seer. She had a kinship with these people, through the stars and through their natures.
'So why am I so scared?'
She raised her arm to let Midnight, the raven, know she should fly. "Go to the boy on the flying tree. Keep him safe for me."
And with another cry the bird left.
She was on the edge of the village now. Someone would be coming out to meet her. She waited on the edge of the village boundary. She knew better than to enter uninvited.
Daisy waited, growing more nervous. It didn't help that the landscape was rather ominous. In the village the trees broke enough to let in a lot of light, but she was still far enough out that the trees covered the sky and effectively blocked the light. If it weren't for the patch of light ahead, she'd have though it was night.
She watched that bright spot ahead, trying not to panic until finally she saw flickers. Two centaurs were approaching. One was male with white blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a palomino body. The other was female, she also had white blonde hair, but her eyes were off a much darker blue, and her body was that of a dapple-gray.
"Why have you come?" the male asked.
"Please, Firenze, I need help. I need guidance," she answered, her voice much calmer than she felt. They could refuse her and she'd be lost.
"That is not our concern, young human." This time it was the female who spoke.
"Luna, you've known me since I was a babe. Since my grandmother first brought me here. I need guidance in my visions."
"Go to your grandmother for guidance," Luna replied.
Daisy looked them both in the eye. "That," she said, "was cruel. My grandmother is dead, and you all know it. And my other source of guidance was taken from me."
"You were followed," Firenze said.
"I know. By the time I realized it I was already on your land. I could not turn back, and I did not want to call him to me. He is no threat."
"We know," Luna said, "or he'd be dead."
"Yes you people do have a nasty habit of shooting visitors."
They smiled at her. "What did you say last time?" Firenze asked. "That we're anti-social? Come." Then he raised his voice to shout to Harry. "And you may come too, Harry Potter."
Harry flew down next to Daisy, with Midnight right next to him. The graceful bird landed on the girl's shoulder. Daisy seemed to take no notice. She was to busy glaring at Harry.
"Hullo Firenze. Nice to see you again," he said trying not to quell under Daisy's gaze.
The centaur laughed, "And you to Mister Potter."
Harry smiled, still avoiding Daisy's eyes. "Please call me Harry. As you've saved my life before, I think you have a right."
Firenze, still smiling said, "You've grown much since then. And I confess I have been watching your star with interest. This," he said gesturing to the female at his side proudly, "is my mate, Luna."
"A pleasure to meet you," Harry said bowing slightly.
Luna smiled and nodded at him, but said nothing.
"Come," Firenze said with a sigh, "the elders are waiting."
The two centaurs took the lead leaving Harry alone with Daisy, save Midnight of course. "You know I really could think of some wonderfully horrid gypsy curse that Madame Pomfery couldn't fix."
"But I'm sure Professor Blanc could," he said.
"Oh, yes I'm sure he could. But he won't be back at the castle for ages!"
"Well, pardon me for breathing. Or better yet for trying to keep you breathing!"
"I knew what I was getting myself into. You have no clue! Just try not to force Firenze to have to save your life again. He got in enough trouble last time."
The centaur's village seemed to be part of the forest. There weren't traditional houses, but then there wouldn't need to be. Instead the trees themselves were part of the structures that were reminiscent of stables but nicer.
And centaurs weren't the only creatures here. There were mythic horses of every kind, winged horse reminiscent of Pegasus, unicorns, hippogriffs, and others.
Harry really wanted to break the tension. He leaned other to Daisy and said, "Careful those unicorns don't charge us."
Daisy looked at the docile creatures and new Harry was joking. She did not find it funny. "Those things wouldn't come near me if I had the last sugar cube on earth!"
Harry now felt extremely uncomfortable. He was wondering how much further they would have to go into the village. I was very beautiful. If he wasn't so anxious he be quite enjoying the sights. The centaur's home felt safe.
Daisy leaned towards Harry now. "Just stay half a step behind me when we go before the council. And don't speak! Not a word! No matter what is said or what danger you perceive, do not speak! If you can remember that, we should be okay."
Harry nodded and took half a step back. But also said to her quietly, "But I would really appreciate an explanation later."
"Sush! We're nearly there," she said.
Harry was watching Daisy now. There was a clearing up ahead. As they approached Daisy grew visibly tense. It was like she was steeling herself against attack. Harry was starting to wonder what he was doing here. He also noticed the way she stood in front of him. She was shielding him and he didn't like it. Fortunately he had learned enough to stay behind her.
He watched the raven on her shoulder. Midnight blended also seamlessly into her cloak under the shadow of trees. Her hood was still pulled up, covering her from hair to nose. There was just a slight glare from her glasses as she moved her head towards him.
She smiled. Harry couldn't tell if she was trying to reassure him or herself. She turned her head back to the clearing.
As they entered Firenze and Luna blocked them from view. When they reached the center of the clearing they party stopped. Harry could tell that ahead of them was a semi-circle of centaurs. The Council, he presumed.
Firenze raised his head and said in loud clear voice, "We have brought the Seer, Daisy Clotilde Dumbledore, and companions, The Boy-Who-Lived, Harry Potter, and the raven called Midnight." He bowed low to those gathered, and stayed there.
Then Luna spoke. "They seek the Council's wisdom. Are they to go or stay?" and she bowed too.
"We will look upon them," said and old, cracked voice. Firenze and Luna stood and walked off to take their places in the circle, leaving Harry feeling very exposed.
"Well, human children, what have..." began one Harry recognized as Bane. He was just to the right of the old centaur who had spoken before. A loud caw had interrupted him though. "And feathered friend," he corrected himself with slight nod of his head as apology. "What have you come for?"
Harry was watching Daisy. She took down her hood and revealed her face. It was then that he saw the glare he'd seen hadn't come from her glasses. It was her eyes. They were glowing gold and silver. He was able to see her face for the first time and saw something there not many could pick up on. She was afraid. Would the centaurs know?
Daisy sighed, "I have come for answers to the question posed by the stars."
"And which questions are those child?" asked another Harry knew, Ronan.
Daisy clutched at her grandmother's pendent about her neck. "I have seen many visions of those close to me, of friends and family, and even my own future. I don't have the objectivity to interpret them clearly. If they are true visions, and I believe they are, then the stars will have the answers I seek."
"You speak for what you seek, what about the others?" Bane said glaring at Harry.
"They are my friends and have come to help me," Daisy said.
Bane wasn't satisfied. "I want to hear for myself. Boy, why have you come here?"
"Why do question only him!" Daisy shot back before Harry had a chance to answer.
"Because the raven cannot answer. He can, in his own tongue. I will hear that he posses us no threat. Or have you forgotten the purpose of this first interview?"
First? Harry wondered. But he couldn't think long. His presence was hindering Daisy and whatever she was doing here. He quickly spoke up, "I didn't even know where I was coming," he spoke calmly. "I saw my friend going head first into danger. I wanted to make sure she would be safe, but I didn't want to seem like I didn't think she could handle things on her own. I trailed her and she came here. To be honest, I was so worried about watching her back, I'm not even sure where here is."
Now it was Daisy's turn to watch Harry. His words came so natural. The boy had no fear. She was afraid of everything. But, then, everyone thought she had no fear. True bravery was facing your fears. She could do that. She didn't have a choice. Neither did Harry.
That was part of the kinship she felt with him. They had both seen great horrors. But she had never been compelled to act before now. While she had seen great dangers, he had lived through them. He had learned to face fear like this. She hadn't, but she was trying. Watching Harry helped steel her resolve.
She turned back to the Council. "Is that good enough, Bane?"
"For now," he answered.
Daisy turned back to he wizened centaur. Harry knew three of these people, while she knew almost all. "Sagar, please, I need help. I don't know where else to go."
The old centaur shook his head. "There are any number of your own you could go to. Albus would..."
"Never believe what I'm saying. The man has faith in everyone but his own flesh and blood. He is too close to be objective, the same problem I have. My grandmother never taught me that objectivity and the only other person who could was taken from me." She sighed. "I seem to be blocked at every turn. But I will go on. I have to or the visions will drive me insane. Grandmother taught me that much. So please, tell me if you will help me, or if I am to be blocked here too. I know the protocol is for three interviews, but I also know the decision is almost always made at the beginning of the first. I can't take anymore mind games. I have enough in my head as it is. So I ask are we to stay or go? Tell me please. I will waist no more time than is required."
"What impudence!" Bane bellowed.
"What fortitude," Ronan said.
"What stones," Harry said under his breath. This caused Daisy a slight smile.
"What a resemblance to your grandmother. Clotilde was a great lady, and a good friend. She was mourned here. You bring my old friend back, and for that I thank you. And your words are true. You are lost. The stars are often used to guide the lost." Sagar smiled. "Come child, let us get you back on course."
Daisy smiled and ran to the old creature, Midnight flapping into the air. She hugged him around the middle near tears. He stroked her hair gently. She looked like a small child clinging to a beloved grandparent.
Harry hadn't noticed Firenze come along side him as the crowd broke. "He would never turn her away. She should not have worried so."
"Why? How?" Harry asked. "I mean her grandmother was French."
"Yes, but she was a gypsy and married to a British man. For him she almost gave up her people. But, before she could, he joined them. They did eventually settle somewhat in Hogsmead. And gypsies travel their whole lives, even as a child she knew Sagar. They were close friends. Whenever she would travel near here, Clotilde would always sneak off to visit as soon as possible. It was only permitted because she was a gypsy, and gifted with True Sight. You may have noticed, but most of my people do not hold wizards as highly as they hold themselves. Sagar, in large part because of Clotilde, holds everyone to the heavens."
Daisy went back to Harry and Firenze with Midnight flying right above her.
"That took courage," Firenze said.
"I'm just glad it worked. Now I just have to consult the stars," Daisy said with apprehension.
"Well that won't be easy in the day light. Or do we have to stay until dark?" Harry asked.
Daisy held out her arm to Midnight. When she landed Daisy began to run the back of her fingers down the birds soft feathers. Still looking away from Harry she said, "This is some thing I have to do alone. It will just be me and the senior members of the Council. Twelve in all, I'll make thirteen. Firenze and Luna will take care of you and Midnight."
"What do you have to do?" Harry asked.
"It is forbidden to speak of the Calling," Firenze said.
"Calling?"
"The Calling of the Stars, so they can give the answers I seek," Daisy said. "It can be very...draining. I'm glad you're here after all."
She looked up at him then. She was still very afraid. "I should go. I don't want to keep them waiting."
With that she drew her cloak around her tightly and walk off to Sagar. He and several other centaurs, including Bane and Ronan, walked her to a lager structure at the end of the clearing. It was the only building that could be in a human settlement. It was a large wooden building that looked like a lodge. There were no windows and only the one door. Sagar opened it to admit Daisy and the other. When they were all in it closed with a deafening thud.
***
Daisy was alone in the lodge with the centaurs. She was shaking slightly but they took no notice. At least, not until Sagar finally spoke. "Are you sure you want to do this? Are you prepared to pay the price?"
Daisy's hand went to her pendant. "My grandmother could do this, so can I."
She spoke with much more conviction then she felt. She knew Sagar would protect her, but she still shook with fear. It took all he strength to banish thoughts of, 'I'm going to die. This will take everything out of me and leave me for dead.' She tried to be logical. She was a true Seer. She would not be harmed physically. This would finally get her some answers.
It was the last part that kept her resolve. She had so many pieces but not a clear enough picture to protect her loved ones. She knew Aunt Ro was alive. She knew Harry would face Voldemort and live. She knew they would be happy. She would make sure of it.
"Yes, I can do this. I have too. I have to protect my family and I can't do that with half visions. They're as bad as half truths," she said resolve firm and shaking stopped. "I am ready."
*******************
The things Firenze and Luna were showing him amazed Harry. Midnight had now taking up residence on his shoulder and would let out chirps every now and again. He got the sense that, not unlike himself, Midnight was anxious for Daisy. Finally, he had to ask about her. After all, he had followed to make sure she would be safe.
"Firenze, what is the ritual? What will it do to her?" he asked
"Best not to think about it. She wanted to me to distract you, Harry. Be distracted," Firenze answered.
"I never heard her tell you that."
"That's because you weren't listening," Luna said. "Besides she knows how to communicate without words. It was not necessary for her to say it. She cares for you and would not want you to worry."
Harry almost laughed at this. "She wouldn't want anyone to worry even if she had to walk bare foot through hell. Anyway, I won't be distracted so just tell me."
Firenze sighed, "The ritual will drain her of her gift, her magic, and join it with the stars and their knowledge. Her conscience self will see things clearly without the distractions of life. She won't be able to block any vision of truth. When her grandmother went in there she came out knowing every aspect of her life, including her death, and we believe she had seen the lives of everyone she cared for. Clotilde was well into her life when she under went the ritual. Daisy was a child of five, but she was here for it. She knows what she's getting herself into. She wouldn't do this if she couldn't handle it."
Harry couldn't help thinking Firenze didn't look convinced.
After their conversation, not even the centaurs pretended to try to occupy their minds elsewhere. The small group sat by the lodge and waited for the council to come out. They talked little, but kept their eyes on the door of the lodge.
Finally the door opened. Sagar held it for the others, as he had when they entered. Harry was looking for Daisy. He finally saw her cloak. It was rapped around a bundle Ronan was carrying. No one came out after him. It took Harry a moment to realize that the bundle was Daisy.
Sagar stopped him before he could reach her. "No, my boy. Give her a moment. She will recover."
"Recover?!" Harry nearly shouted. "She was drained of her magic and transported on some mystic vision quest and all you can say is she'll recover?"
"Because she will, Harry," Firenze said from behind. "Sagar would not lie, even to comfort. If he says she will recover, she will." Then we turned to the elder centaur. "May we see her?"
Sagar nodded. "She is being taken to Ronan's home."
"Our thanks," Luna said with a nod of her head. "This way," she said to Harry.
Harry didn't notice what Ronan's home looked like. He didn't notice when Midnight flew from his shoulder to the edge of table. He didn't notice anyone around him. He just saw Daisy, lying on a bench that served as a make shift bed.
He went over to her just as she was coming around. "Hey," she managed. "Why the long face?"
"Horse joke, not funny," Firenze said.
She smiled weakly, "I couldn't help it."
"How do you feel?" Luna asked.
"Like a Mack truck just ran through my head. Oh, and I realized I haven't eaten since breakfast," she said.
Harry remembered the candy stashed in his pockets. He pulled it out and said a quite, "Ingorgo."
"Here have a chocolate frog, and a butterbeer," he said and helped her sit up.
"Thanks," she managed before eating the chocolate frog, two pumpkin pasties, and the butterbeer.
Daisy sat up and stretched. "I'm feeling better now."
There was an indignant squawking from Midnight. Daisy smiled. "I did not take a stupid risk, thank you very much. I knew exactly what I was doing."
She didn't think it necessary to mention she was scared stiff doing it. She was standing now and walking towards the entrance. "Come on. I need to get back. We'll miss dinner if we don't hurry. And I want to talk to my uncle."
Harry looked at her for a moment. She was very pale but her eyes weren't glowing anymore. However, he pendant was. The silver-blue stone was as bright as a torch. "Okay, then," he said. "Let's go."
When they reached the edge of the centaur's settlement she bowed her head. "Thank you, for everything."
The centaurs nodded as did Harry and the two children left with the raven flying above.
******
"Your quite." Harry said after they had been walking for a while.
"Mmm thinking." was her eloquent answer.
"Alright." Harry really didn't want to press her, but his curiosity got the better of him. "What about?"
She stopped and looked up at him. "I'm going to die before you. Draco will die before me. And Ron and Hermione will get married, separate and reconcile. At least I think they do."
"I thought you were suppose to know everything now."
"No, I'm not omniscience. But I know what my visions are telling me. I have to try and change some things."
"Such as?" he asked.
"Draco dies at twenty years of age, at Ron and Hermione's wedding. It was revenge because he turned on the Dark Arts to be with the girl he loved."
"That doesn't sound like Malfoy," Harry said. Then he looked at her, "And just who is Draco's girl?"
Daisy looked him. "I'm not going to tell you. You won't like it."
Before he could respond she tripped. Daisy caught Harry by the arm before she could hit the ground. When she stood she kept holding on to him as they walked. She was still very pale.
"You alright?" Harry asked.
"I just need to get back at talk to my uncle." she said quietly.
By the time they finally reached the edge of the forest Daisy could barely stand. Harry was now half carrying her. He had is arm around her waist and was supporting her entire weight. She refused to be carried out right. And due to the fact that she had had the magic drained out of her, flight was impossible. She was surprised she could still talk to Midnight.
She was glad though, especially now that she had to say good-bye. She didn't trust her self enough to release Harry, still under the delusion he hadn't noticed her death grip was the only thing keeping her up. He had been polite enough not to mention it. She did manage to reach up with one hand and stoke her friend's feathers.
"Good-bye old friend. Thank you for watching our backs on the way out."
She said this very quietly. Midnight began to squawk and flap.
"I will not!" She said.
"Will not what?" Harry asked as the raven continued to speak.
"She wants me to make you promise to take care of me," Daisy said, and was there now a bit of color in her cheeks.
Harry turned to Midnight, and extended his free arm. Midnight landed so that they were now face to face. "You do have to make me promise. I care a great deal about our little wild flower. I've lost too many people I care about and I've already promised not to loose anyone else. I'll keep her safe." Or die trying...
Though that last thought was unsaid everyone seemed to grasp it. With one last farewell caw, Midnight flew off.
"Harry..." Daisy began.
But he cut her off. "We'd better get you up to the infirmary."
"No, straight to the Headmaster's Office."
******************************
Harry flew fast into the forest. Daisy had a large lead and he needed to catch up. It did occur to him at one point that flying at top speeds in a forest was not smart, but five years of Quidditch training allowed him reasonable confidence. Since he didn't smack into any trees, it was probably justified.
He followed the swatch of purple on the ground ahead of him. He was catching her. And then a bird called, a raven. Daisy stop in an area of trees that had thinned on the path to almost form a clearing.
The raven called again, and Daisy called back. Her cry sounded just like the real bird. The animal flew to her and landed on her out stretched arm.
"Come to lend a little moral support?" she asked
It answered with a low chirpy noise, almost miserable if you weren't listening.
Daisy laughed. "No, I can't fly with you today. I have business in the forest. Wanna be my look out?"
The Bird cried loudly at this and flapped its wings.
She laughed, "I know it's dangerous." Then she made chirping noises. "And besides you'll be with me."
Harry watched as they walked a way, wondering what some one who talks to birds is called. Once they had a safe lead he followed again.
As Harry followed, Daisy had a sense of being watched. However it wasn't Harry that she sensed. She was nearing her goal and they would have been watching for a good ten minutes before they made move to put her at ease.
She was no threat, and they new it. She reasoned they would probably know she was coming. They seemed to know everything. That was she why going to them.
Centaurs, why did it have to be centaurs? What was it Hagrid said? Ruddy stargazers. Can't get a straight answer outta them. And he she was going for answers. But if they could help her make sense of anything it would be worth it.
The bird on her shoulder clicked softly in her ear.
"Yes, I know the horsemen are watching."
It clicked at her again.
This time she stopped and clicked back. 'A broomstick?' she asked.
'Not know broomstick. Know boy on flying branch. Want Daisy to fly with Midnight.'
'Later my friend,' she clicked back,
So Harry must have spotted her. Well, the centaurs were already watching. She couldn't turn back.
'I just hope he doesn't do anything stupid,' she thought.
Daisy approached the centaurs' village. It really was a little village just sitting in the forest for anyone to find. Anyone that is who could find the right path, pass through all the traps, and convince the guards they weren't a threat before they shot in intruder. There was a reason the Zodiac symbol of the Archer was a centaur. And she was a Sagittarius, and a Seer. She had a kinship with these people, through the stars and through their natures.
'So why am I so scared?'
She raised her arm to let Midnight, the raven, know she should fly. "Go to the boy on the flying tree. Keep him safe for me."
And with another cry the bird left.
She was on the edge of the village now. Someone would be coming out to meet her. She waited on the edge of the village boundary. She knew better than to enter uninvited.
Daisy waited, growing more nervous. It didn't help that the landscape was rather ominous. In the village the trees broke enough to let in a lot of light, but she was still far enough out that the trees covered the sky and effectively blocked the light. If it weren't for the patch of light ahead, she'd have though it was night.
She watched that bright spot ahead, trying not to panic until finally she saw flickers. Two centaurs were approaching. One was male with white blonde hair, bright blue eyes, and a palomino body. The other was female, she also had white blonde hair, but her eyes were off a much darker blue, and her body was that of a dapple-gray.
"Why have you come?" the male asked.
"Please, Firenze, I need help. I need guidance," she answered, her voice much calmer than she felt. They could refuse her and she'd be lost.
"That is not our concern, young human." This time it was the female who spoke.
"Luna, you've known me since I was a babe. Since my grandmother first brought me here. I need guidance in my visions."
"Go to your grandmother for guidance," Luna replied.
Daisy looked them both in the eye. "That," she said, "was cruel. My grandmother is dead, and you all know it. And my other source of guidance was taken from me."
"You were followed," Firenze said.
"I know. By the time I realized it I was already on your land. I could not turn back, and I did not want to call him to me. He is no threat."
"We know," Luna said, "or he'd be dead."
"Yes you people do have a nasty habit of shooting visitors."
They smiled at her. "What did you say last time?" Firenze asked. "That we're anti-social? Come." Then he raised his voice to shout to Harry. "And you may come too, Harry Potter."
Harry flew down next to Daisy, with Midnight right next to him. The graceful bird landed on the girl's shoulder. Daisy seemed to take no notice. She was to busy glaring at Harry.
"Hullo Firenze. Nice to see you again," he said trying not to quell under Daisy's gaze.
The centaur laughed, "And you to Mister Potter."
Harry smiled, still avoiding Daisy's eyes. "Please call me Harry. As you've saved my life before, I think you have a right."
Firenze, still smiling said, "You've grown much since then. And I confess I have been watching your star with interest. This," he said gesturing to the female at his side proudly, "is my mate, Luna."
"A pleasure to meet you," Harry said bowing slightly.
Luna smiled and nodded at him, but said nothing.
"Come," Firenze said with a sigh, "the elders are waiting."
The two centaurs took the lead leaving Harry alone with Daisy, save Midnight of course. "You know I really could think of some wonderfully horrid gypsy curse that Madame Pomfery couldn't fix."
"But I'm sure Professor Blanc could," he said.
"Oh, yes I'm sure he could. But he won't be back at the castle for ages!"
"Well, pardon me for breathing. Or better yet for trying to keep you breathing!"
"I knew what I was getting myself into. You have no clue! Just try not to force Firenze to have to save your life again. He got in enough trouble last time."
The centaur's village seemed to be part of the forest. There weren't traditional houses, but then there wouldn't need to be. Instead the trees themselves were part of the structures that were reminiscent of stables but nicer.
And centaurs weren't the only creatures here. There were mythic horses of every kind, winged horse reminiscent of Pegasus, unicorns, hippogriffs, and others.
Harry really wanted to break the tension. He leaned other to Daisy and said, "Careful those unicorns don't charge us."
Daisy looked at the docile creatures and new Harry was joking. She did not find it funny. "Those things wouldn't come near me if I had the last sugar cube on earth!"
Harry now felt extremely uncomfortable. He was wondering how much further they would have to go into the village. I was very beautiful. If he wasn't so anxious he be quite enjoying the sights. The centaur's home felt safe.
Daisy leaned towards Harry now. "Just stay half a step behind me when we go before the council. And don't speak! Not a word! No matter what is said or what danger you perceive, do not speak! If you can remember that, we should be okay."
Harry nodded and took half a step back. But also said to her quietly, "But I would really appreciate an explanation later."
"Sush! We're nearly there," she said.
Harry was watching Daisy now. There was a clearing up ahead. As they approached Daisy grew visibly tense. It was like she was steeling herself against attack. Harry was starting to wonder what he was doing here. He also noticed the way she stood in front of him. She was shielding him and he didn't like it. Fortunately he had learned enough to stay behind her.
He watched the raven on her shoulder. Midnight blended also seamlessly into her cloak under the shadow of trees. Her hood was still pulled up, covering her from hair to nose. There was just a slight glare from her glasses as she moved her head towards him.
She smiled. Harry couldn't tell if she was trying to reassure him or herself. She turned her head back to the clearing.
As they entered Firenze and Luna blocked them from view. When they reached the center of the clearing they party stopped. Harry could tell that ahead of them was a semi-circle of centaurs. The Council, he presumed.
Firenze raised his head and said in loud clear voice, "We have brought the Seer, Daisy Clotilde Dumbledore, and companions, The Boy-Who-Lived, Harry Potter, and the raven called Midnight." He bowed low to those gathered, and stayed there.
Then Luna spoke. "They seek the Council's wisdom. Are they to go or stay?" and she bowed too.
"We will look upon them," said and old, cracked voice. Firenze and Luna stood and walked off to take their places in the circle, leaving Harry feeling very exposed.
"Well, human children, what have..." began one Harry recognized as Bane. He was just to the right of the old centaur who had spoken before. A loud caw had interrupted him though. "And feathered friend," he corrected himself with slight nod of his head as apology. "What have you come for?"
Harry was watching Daisy. She took down her hood and revealed her face. It was then that he saw the glare he'd seen hadn't come from her glasses. It was her eyes. They were glowing gold and silver. He was able to see her face for the first time and saw something there not many could pick up on. She was afraid. Would the centaurs know?
Daisy sighed, "I have come for answers to the question posed by the stars."
"And which questions are those child?" asked another Harry knew, Ronan.
Daisy clutched at her grandmother's pendent about her neck. "I have seen many visions of those close to me, of friends and family, and even my own future. I don't have the objectivity to interpret them clearly. If they are true visions, and I believe they are, then the stars will have the answers I seek."
"You speak for what you seek, what about the others?" Bane said glaring at Harry.
"They are my friends and have come to help me," Daisy said.
Bane wasn't satisfied. "I want to hear for myself. Boy, why have you come here?"
"Why do question only him!" Daisy shot back before Harry had a chance to answer.
"Because the raven cannot answer. He can, in his own tongue. I will hear that he posses us no threat. Or have you forgotten the purpose of this first interview?"
First? Harry wondered. But he couldn't think long. His presence was hindering Daisy and whatever she was doing here. He quickly spoke up, "I didn't even know where I was coming," he spoke calmly. "I saw my friend going head first into danger. I wanted to make sure she would be safe, but I didn't want to seem like I didn't think she could handle things on her own. I trailed her and she came here. To be honest, I was so worried about watching her back, I'm not even sure where here is."
Now it was Daisy's turn to watch Harry. His words came so natural. The boy had no fear. She was afraid of everything. But, then, everyone thought she had no fear. True bravery was facing your fears. She could do that. She didn't have a choice. Neither did Harry.
That was part of the kinship she felt with him. They had both seen great horrors. But she had never been compelled to act before now. While she had seen great dangers, he had lived through them. He had learned to face fear like this. She hadn't, but she was trying. Watching Harry helped steel her resolve.
She turned back to the Council. "Is that good enough, Bane?"
"For now," he answered.
Daisy turned back to he wizened centaur. Harry knew three of these people, while she knew almost all. "Sagar, please, I need help. I don't know where else to go."
The old centaur shook his head. "There are any number of your own you could go to. Albus would..."
"Never believe what I'm saying. The man has faith in everyone but his own flesh and blood. He is too close to be objective, the same problem I have. My grandmother never taught me that objectivity and the only other person who could was taken from me." She sighed. "I seem to be blocked at every turn. But I will go on. I have to or the visions will drive me insane. Grandmother taught me that much. So please, tell me if you will help me, or if I am to be blocked here too. I know the protocol is for three interviews, but I also know the decision is almost always made at the beginning of the first. I can't take anymore mind games. I have enough in my head as it is. So I ask are we to stay or go? Tell me please. I will waist no more time than is required."
"What impudence!" Bane bellowed.
"What fortitude," Ronan said.
"What stones," Harry said under his breath. This caused Daisy a slight smile.
"What a resemblance to your grandmother. Clotilde was a great lady, and a good friend. She was mourned here. You bring my old friend back, and for that I thank you. And your words are true. You are lost. The stars are often used to guide the lost." Sagar smiled. "Come child, let us get you back on course."
Daisy smiled and ran to the old creature, Midnight flapping into the air. She hugged him around the middle near tears. He stroked her hair gently. She looked like a small child clinging to a beloved grandparent.
Harry hadn't noticed Firenze come along side him as the crowd broke. "He would never turn her away. She should not have worried so."
"Why? How?" Harry asked. "I mean her grandmother was French."
"Yes, but she was a gypsy and married to a British man. For him she almost gave up her people. But, before she could, he joined them. They did eventually settle somewhat in Hogsmead. And gypsies travel their whole lives, even as a child she knew Sagar. They were close friends. Whenever she would travel near here, Clotilde would always sneak off to visit as soon as possible. It was only permitted because she was a gypsy, and gifted with True Sight. You may have noticed, but most of my people do not hold wizards as highly as they hold themselves. Sagar, in large part because of Clotilde, holds everyone to the heavens."
Daisy went back to Harry and Firenze with Midnight flying right above her.
"That took courage," Firenze said.
"I'm just glad it worked. Now I just have to consult the stars," Daisy said with apprehension.
"Well that won't be easy in the day light. Or do we have to stay until dark?" Harry asked.
Daisy held out her arm to Midnight. When she landed Daisy began to run the back of her fingers down the birds soft feathers. Still looking away from Harry she said, "This is some thing I have to do alone. It will just be me and the senior members of the Council. Twelve in all, I'll make thirteen. Firenze and Luna will take care of you and Midnight."
"What do you have to do?" Harry asked.
"It is forbidden to speak of the Calling," Firenze said.
"Calling?"
"The Calling of the Stars, so they can give the answers I seek," Daisy said. "It can be very...draining. I'm glad you're here after all."
She looked up at him then. She was still very afraid. "I should go. I don't want to keep them waiting."
With that she drew her cloak around her tightly and walk off to Sagar. He and several other centaurs, including Bane and Ronan, walked her to a lager structure at the end of the clearing. It was the only building that could be in a human settlement. It was a large wooden building that looked like a lodge. There were no windows and only the one door. Sagar opened it to admit Daisy and the other. When they were all in it closed with a deafening thud.
***
Daisy was alone in the lodge with the centaurs. She was shaking slightly but they took no notice. At least, not until Sagar finally spoke. "Are you sure you want to do this? Are you prepared to pay the price?"
Daisy's hand went to her pendant. "My grandmother could do this, so can I."
She spoke with much more conviction then she felt. She knew Sagar would protect her, but she still shook with fear. It took all he strength to banish thoughts of, 'I'm going to die. This will take everything out of me and leave me for dead.' She tried to be logical. She was a true Seer. She would not be harmed physically. This would finally get her some answers.
It was the last part that kept her resolve. She had so many pieces but not a clear enough picture to protect her loved ones. She knew Aunt Ro was alive. She knew Harry would face Voldemort and live. She knew they would be happy. She would make sure of it.
"Yes, I can do this. I have too. I have to protect my family and I can't do that with half visions. They're as bad as half truths," she said resolve firm and shaking stopped. "I am ready."
*******************
The things Firenze and Luna were showing him amazed Harry. Midnight had now taking up residence on his shoulder and would let out chirps every now and again. He got the sense that, not unlike himself, Midnight was anxious for Daisy. Finally, he had to ask about her. After all, he had followed to make sure she would be safe.
"Firenze, what is the ritual? What will it do to her?" he asked
"Best not to think about it. She wanted to me to distract you, Harry. Be distracted," Firenze answered.
"I never heard her tell you that."
"That's because you weren't listening," Luna said. "Besides she knows how to communicate without words. It was not necessary for her to say it. She cares for you and would not want you to worry."
Harry almost laughed at this. "She wouldn't want anyone to worry even if she had to walk bare foot through hell. Anyway, I won't be distracted so just tell me."
Firenze sighed, "The ritual will drain her of her gift, her magic, and join it with the stars and their knowledge. Her conscience self will see things clearly without the distractions of life. She won't be able to block any vision of truth. When her grandmother went in there she came out knowing every aspect of her life, including her death, and we believe she had seen the lives of everyone she cared for. Clotilde was well into her life when she under went the ritual. Daisy was a child of five, but she was here for it. She knows what she's getting herself into. She wouldn't do this if she couldn't handle it."
Harry couldn't help thinking Firenze didn't look convinced.
After their conversation, not even the centaurs pretended to try to occupy their minds elsewhere. The small group sat by the lodge and waited for the council to come out. They talked little, but kept their eyes on the door of the lodge.
Finally the door opened. Sagar held it for the others, as he had when they entered. Harry was looking for Daisy. He finally saw her cloak. It was rapped around a bundle Ronan was carrying. No one came out after him. It took Harry a moment to realize that the bundle was Daisy.
Sagar stopped him before he could reach her. "No, my boy. Give her a moment. She will recover."
"Recover?!" Harry nearly shouted. "She was drained of her magic and transported on some mystic vision quest and all you can say is she'll recover?"
"Because she will, Harry," Firenze said from behind. "Sagar would not lie, even to comfort. If he says she will recover, she will." Then we turned to the elder centaur. "May we see her?"
Sagar nodded. "She is being taken to Ronan's home."
"Our thanks," Luna said with a nod of her head. "This way," she said to Harry.
Harry didn't notice what Ronan's home looked like. He didn't notice when Midnight flew from his shoulder to the edge of table. He didn't notice anyone around him. He just saw Daisy, lying on a bench that served as a make shift bed.
He went over to her just as she was coming around. "Hey," she managed. "Why the long face?"
"Horse joke, not funny," Firenze said.
She smiled weakly, "I couldn't help it."
"How do you feel?" Luna asked.
"Like a Mack truck just ran through my head. Oh, and I realized I haven't eaten since breakfast," she said.
Harry remembered the candy stashed in his pockets. He pulled it out and said a quite, "Ingorgo."
"Here have a chocolate frog, and a butterbeer," he said and helped her sit up.
"Thanks," she managed before eating the chocolate frog, two pumpkin pasties, and the butterbeer.
Daisy sat up and stretched. "I'm feeling better now."
There was an indignant squawking from Midnight. Daisy smiled. "I did not take a stupid risk, thank you very much. I knew exactly what I was doing."
She didn't think it necessary to mention she was scared stiff doing it. She was standing now and walking towards the entrance. "Come on. I need to get back. We'll miss dinner if we don't hurry. And I want to talk to my uncle."
Harry looked at her for a moment. She was very pale but her eyes weren't glowing anymore. However, he pendant was. The silver-blue stone was as bright as a torch. "Okay, then," he said. "Let's go."
When they reached the edge of the centaur's settlement she bowed her head. "Thank you, for everything."
The centaurs nodded as did Harry and the two children left with the raven flying above.
******
"Your quite." Harry said after they had been walking for a while.
"Mmm thinking." was her eloquent answer.
"Alright." Harry really didn't want to press her, but his curiosity got the better of him. "What about?"
She stopped and looked up at him. "I'm going to die before you. Draco will die before me. And Ron and Hermione will get married, separate and reconcile. At least I think they do."
"I thought you were suppose to know everything now."
"No, I'm not omniscience. But I know what my visions are telling me. I have to try and change some things."
"Such as?" he asked.
"Draco dies at twenty years of age, at Ron and Hermione's wedding. It was revenge because he turned on the Dark Arts to be with the girl he loved."
"That doesn't sound like Malfoy," Harry said. Then he looked at her, "And just who is Draco's girl?"
Daisy looked him. "I'm not going to tell you. You won't like it."
Before he could respond she tripped. Daisy caught Harry by the arm before she could hit the ground. When she stood she kept holding on to him as they walked. She was still very pale.
"You alright?" Harry asked.
"I just need to get back at talk to my uncle." she said quietly.
By the time they finally reached the edge of the forest Daisy could barely stand. Harry was now half carrying her. He had is arm around her waist and was supporting her entire weight. She refused to be carried out right. And due to the fact that she had had the magic drained out of her, flight was impossible. She was surprised she could still talk to Midnight.
She was glad though, especially now that she had to say good-bye. She didn't trust her self enough to release Harry, still under the delusion he hadn't noticed her death grip was the only thing keeping her up. He had been polite enough not to mention it. She did manage to reach up with one hand and stoke her friend's feathers.
"Good-bye old friend. Thank you for watching our backs on the way out."
She said this very quietly. Midnight began to squawk and flap.
"I will not!" She said.
"Will not what?" Harry asked as the raven continued to speak.
"She wants me to make you promise to take care of me," Daisy said, and was there now a bit of color in her cheeks.
Harry turned to Midnight, and extended his free arm. Midnight landed so that they were now face to face. "You do have to make me promise. I care a great deal about our little wild flower. I've lost too many people I care about and I've already promised not to loose anyone else. I'll keep her safe." Or die trying...
Though that last thought was unsaid everyone seemed to grasp it. With one last farewell caw, Midnight flew off.
"Harry..." Daisy began.
But he cut her off. "We'd better get you up to the infirmary."
"No, straight to the Headmaster's Office."
******************************