Title: Prince of the Light
Author: Mysterious Phantom Shyraz
Disclaimer: Works of Harry Potter and related characters belong to J.K.Rowling, Warner Bros, publishers and distributors. Only limited characters are mine, i.e. Sena and Dana (that goes for name, background and personalities) and so are most of the otherworldly realms, i.e. Ragnarak. Also, the ranking of the Branches of Magic are based on what I know. There were a few more but can't figure how they'll fit. This goes for the Skills as well!
Sixth Night-Swords and Ice-cream?
"First thing, you're going to stay in this pagoda for a while and learn all the 'theory'. Then you'll be travelling to obtain the Arma Forces or AF for short. These will be 'creatures' of summon." Dana rang the phone that mysteriously appeared on the desk where the stack of cards should have been. "Hello? Can you send Zephyr here, thanks."
"Does Zephyr still study here?" Sena asked.
"Yes, he still isn't proficient in the use of skills." She turned towards Harry, who was sitting down, and Dumbledore, who stood beside Harry's chair talking to him to see if there was anything else he remembered. "Albus, would you be staying here with Harry and Sena?"
"Mostly, after all, I'm suppose to be young Harry's mentor when it comes to the practical sessions."
Just then, another person entered. He was similar to Harry in age, only with a pair of silver rimmed glasses masking his cerulean blue eyes. His hair is of the same colour, only that its length is to his hips and tied down.
"Sena!" Zaphyr called out in surprise. "It's been so long!" He gave a heartfelt smile and hugged the young man.
"Zephyr," Sena hugged him in return and let go.
"Zephyr, I want you to show Albus, Sena and Harry to their rooms. They will be staying with us for a while."
"Albus? As in the great Sage Albus Dumbledore? It is a pleasure to meet you sir!" Zephyr shook Dumbledore's hand with enthusiasm.
Dana ignoring the exchange, knowing full well of Zephyr's respect and admiration towards the old Sage, turned towards the other occupants of the room.
"I will leave you all in his hands. Please excuse me for now as I have some businesses to attend to." With that said, Dana disappeared in the thin air.
"This way if you please, we will be walking down to the seventh floor to your rooms." The four people proceeded down the spiral staircase whilst Zephyr gave them a verbal description of the pagoda.
"There are four labs in the basement, two of which are nearly always reserved for alchemists the other one is for public use. Ground floor is the lobby and refectory. Classrooms for theory lessons are on the first floor but as you'll be under Lady Dana's direct tutoring, you'll be mostly studying on the ninth. Second floor is the library, so is the third. Forth is the relaxing facility, with gym, games rooms and other facilities should you wish to have some time off from training. Fifth is the weapons training area, split into two, one of which is a large room that has not been used for a long time." Zephyr trailed off. Sena picked up from that point to inform Dumbledore, who has not been here for a very long time, and Harry.
"The other side of the weapons training area is split into two parts again, one of which is publicly opened for everyone of Ragnarak where the other is for the students here. Sixth floor is the magic training area, split in a similar way. Seventh floor are dormitories, some are single rooms and some are shared rooms, where there could be up to six students. Eighth floor has meditation rooms, ranging from small to large in size, and dimensional doors."
"Let me remind you that do not attempt to open any of the locked doors. They're reserved rooms."
Upon reaching the seventh floor, Zephyr opened the door separating the staircase with the dormitory. When the door is opened, a large common room, similar to the Griffindor common room back in Hogwarts, was exposed to the three guests. There are several corridors leading to five different directions. Zephyr took his role as a tour guide.
"The seventh floor is separated into several areas. Here is the common room. The one on the left is towards the shared rooms, commonly known as the Blair area. Going clockwise is the Jefferson area, which has single and large rooms for public trainees and trainers, Beaulieu area, which is where the graduate stays, Syberia area, which are single rooms for students, and the One area, locked and no one knows what is in there. It's been nearly two century Ragnarak time since it was last opened." Zephyr handed a set of keys to Dumbledore. "Sage Dumbledore, your room is the third one on the right of Jefferson, Sena, your in your old room in Beaulieu, you have your keys with you. Harry, you follow me to Syberia." The guests split up in their different direction, fully trusting the securities placed in the pagoda, left Harry in the care of Zephyr.
Harry, leaving Zephyr to lead the way, entered the third corridor. Inside, the walls were plain with light globes mounted in between each door. The doors were wooden colour but upon closer inspection, it felt and looked as though it was made of metal. They reached nearly the end of the corridor and stopped at around three doors before.
"This is your room," Zephyr opened the door. "changes of clothes could be found in the wardrobe. Food is served all day on the refectory on ground floor but the elevation platform will be switched off at around midnight and reopens at dawn. My room is just diagonal to yours. If you need help, knock on my door." Zephyr was just about to head out. "Ah! I forgot to tell you, we are not to enter other areas, same goes for people from other areas, they are not to enter Syberia."
"So that was why you didn't show Professor Dumbledore to his room in Jefferson." Harry thought out loud.
"Um, if you don't mind me asking, why did you call Sage Dumbledore 'Professor'?"
"Out of habit I guess, I mean after all he is the headmaster of Hogwarts."
"Hogwarts?"
"The school that I go to, school of witchcraft and wizardry. But you don't have anything like that here do you?"
"No. . . " there was a pause between the two boys. Then, Zephyr closed the door, but stayed in the room. "Do you mind telling me more about your world? What is it like?"
"Hm. . . I don't know how to describe it, but you can say it's separated into magical and non-magical community. . . "
The conversation revolving around Earth continued passed midnight, topics ranging from M&M's to chocolate frogs, downtown London to Knockturn Alley. Though one thing that Harry did not mention was Voldemort as he didn't want to make a bad impression of his world.
"What about you? Where did you come from? What was your world like?" Harry asked after finishing his tale of Triwiazard tournament and the Department of Mysteries.
Zephyr looked into Harry's eyes as if searching for something. It seemed hours for Harry that the paused prolonged, but it was only seconds. Finally, as if he found what he was looking for, Zephyr spoke.
"I don't know what to tell you. There's nothing special about it, it's a defeated realm. One where most men are off to war, women worked at camps and children looking for valuables and food. . . "
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."
"Don't worry about it," Zephyr smiled brightly but with a hint of sadness lingering in his eyes. "its been a long time since I last went back. It might have changed for better! Well, it's late. Sorry for troubling you. Goodnight!"
After escorting Zephyr to the door, silence rang throughout the room, not that Harry wasn't used to it by now. But the sudden departure of Zephyr left Harry thinking if it was his fault.
***
That night, Harry did not have a peaceful dream. Although it was nice knowing that he was being trained, and in his perspective learning new ways to defeat Voldemort, and that he found his parents again. Nightmares still plague his nights.
"Where I am?" Harry asked in his dream, which echoed for a long time.
Fingers pointed towards him, the moist lands beneath his feet turned barren. The sky changed from the blue colour to scarlet red then black, leaving nothing but darkness. The wind started to moan and painful song. Light whispers were in the air, saying something that Harry could not understand. The whispers grew louder and louder until it was audible.
"YOU!" One voice spoke up.
"YOU!" Many other voices echoed with fingers and wands appearing into the scene.
"DIE!" A much louder voice called out.
"KILL!" Another one answered.
"Noooo" Voices echoed in the air.
"Harry, leave now! I'll handle this." Sirius' vague form appeared in the scene.
"Sirius, you're ok. You're not hurt!" Harry ran towards the figure.
"AVADA KEDAVRA" There was a thump right in front of Harry.
"RON!" Another figure appeared, then another. Soon the whole floor was littered with bodies upon bodies. Then, just as they appeared gradually, they turned into skeletons.
"NO, this is not happening. . . this can't be. . . it can't be the. . . end. . . " the final word was whispered out by Harry.
***
Screams, pain, sadness, all filled his dreams. And it was until Harry could stand no more of this, he woke up. Drenched in sweat and face with two streaming lines of tears. He looked out to what he thought was his window. The sun rising, but it wasn't an unusual practice for Harry to wake up early.
It was the first day that he's here, but it felt as if he's been here for the whole time. Heading towards the bathroom and grabbing a change of clothes, he began the daily morning routine. Glancing at the clock on one of the walls, it read 7:00am.
'At least these are normal clocks. I really don't know how to read the bewitched ones. . .'
After the relaxing shower, he came back out to find only fifteen minutes had passed. Then, there was a knock on the door. Harry headed to open it, to invite whichever guest it was.
"You want to go to breakfast with me?" Was the morning greeting given by Zephyr to Harry. "I'm sure Sena is down there already. He gets up really early. . ." Without waiting for a reply from Harry, Zephyr grabbed his hands and off they went down to the refectory.
***
"Good morning Zephyr, Master Harry." Zephyr and Harry joined Sena at the table with their serve of breakfast consisting of eggs, beacon, toast and milk tea for Zephyr and similar for Harry with the slight change of milk tea to orange juice. The meal was consumed with conversations.
"Harry," Dumbledore appeared behind Harry just when he stood up to put away his tray. Zephyr, seeing a conversation was about to take place, took his leave along with Harry's tray.
"Dana told me she wouldn't be able to take your lessons for a while and wishes you to take the lessons with Zephyr. Is that alright with you?" Dumbledore asked both Harry and Zephyr who was coming back.
Both nodded at the suggestion as Harry wasn't sure what will happen and Zephyr because he liked Harry's company. Dumbledore turned to speak to Sena in turn.
"Would you like to come with me for a while? I'm sure there's no harm here, so you won't need to worry about him." Dumbledore stood, waiting for Sena to stand up. Sena turned around, to see Harry and Zephyr talking amiably.
Dumbledore added, talking to himself mostly "I haven't seen Harry talking and smiling so much in one day. Even when he was with his friends, he haven't opened up so much. It'd surprise Molly and Arthur. . ." He shook his head both dismissing the thought and indicating Sena to not worry. And with that, both said a quick 'goodbye' and left the refectory.
***
Harry was telling Zephyr about Quidditch this time when Dumbledore and Sena left the refectory. Not long later, a group of people, not younger than Harry gathered around them.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't Zeph. We thought we'd never see you again after what happened. Tell me, how does it feel to kill, to seduce?" He was blond, pale and smiled sweetly as he innocently said the words, awaiting for its impact. He took a seat on the other side of Zephyr like old friends.
'So much like to Draco Malfoy' Harry thought. Looking around, there were two 'bodyguards' behind this Malfoy-look-alike but quite largely built and seems to have a higher intelligence than Crabbe and Goyle. There were also three girls flanking behind this group, just trailing a bit behind the 'bodyguards'.
"Really Zeph, you know you should never have got away from us." The one with a red ponytail smiled at him and draped her arms around Zephyr's neck. Another, who has the same coloured hair, only wore it at a much shorter length, let her arms draped around Harry, who was sitting next to Zephyr not saying a word the whole time, in the similar way.
"And who's this? Another one of those from your place? You know, if you want to become one of us, it's easy." She was saying this more to Harry than others. "Well, what lovely eyes you have. Tell me love, what's your name?" She cocked her head and looked at Harry seducing.
"Leave him alone!" Zephyr blurted out, much to everyone's surprise and shaking off the girl.
"Well, seems like you've gain a bit of confidence now haven't we?" One of the 'bodyguard' looked with much disgust towards Zephyr.
"Come off him," the pale blond said as though trying to defend Zephyr. It was weird for Harry to watch, but this seems too much like Hogwarts. "after all, you can't blame him for trying to defend a so-called friend. Right Zeph?" The bell suddenly rang to signal the start of the day.
"Well, save by the bell yet again? I'm sure we'll meet again sometime today. Afterall, you have been avoiding us. Try not to do it again!" He winked at Zephyr and stood up. Turing to Harry, he hastily added sweetly "It's nice be of your acquaintance whoever you are. We hope to the pleasure of knowing more about you sometime. But now, we must take our leave."
Other in the refectory gave way to the group of six as they stroll out of the room. During the whole encounter, the whole room was silent and a pin drop could be heard. But now, everyone seemed to have realised it was time for classes to begin and the rustling and bustling of the day re-emerged. Confirming that those people have left, Zephyr signalled Harry to follow him.
"We have Phys Ed right now, but after that I have a three hour break. I thought you might like to go out to town later."
"I'd love to!" Harry was enthusiastic about the idea of looking around the place. Although he had been here for quite a few days now, but he haven't the chance to have a guided tour.
***
Although Harry had ran before, and mostly away from Dudley and his gang, but this was more hectic than he had experienced. Even though people knew he was 'new' and all, but it seems that these teachers never care. After thirty minutes of continued running up and down the 'little' hill on the 'Pagoda Island' as Harry called it, everyone, not only Harry, was tired out and running out of breath.
"Why. . . does. . .he. . .always. . .do. . .this. . . ?" Harry heard one of the pupil next to him panting, heaving and breathing hardly.
"Its. . .they're. . . just. . .crazy!" another one commented.
"Any more comments, I'll have you all running for more!" the teacher warned and all of the pupil went silent. Not wanting to do any more exercise than needed. Harry turned to Zephyr to seek and explanation.
"Don't. . .need. . ." Zephyr took a deep breath and tried to speak again, he was light headed from all the running. "He's one of the strictest teachers here. What he says is definite and he would give in to no one. So don't bother trying to get around not doing anything, he doesn't care"
After the running, everything returned to what Zephyr commented as normal, where they picked up weapons and tried to kill the teacher. It was said to be a way to test them of their actual fitness and skills. Though Harry was not quite sure what it meant, yet he was 'invited' to join in to the so- called 'festivities'.
"I understand that you're new to this. But since your in my class, you'll participate all the same. However, you need to choose your weapons first." He motioned the wall behind him.
It contained many weapons, from projectile types to blades and lances. In spite that there are many glittering weapons, Harry's eyes were focused on a copper-coloured hilt. It wasn't one of the more attractive weapons, rather, it was one of those that tends to be overlooked. The blade itself looked a bit rustic and was a bit well for wear. But other than that, it looked as though it was unbreakable. Harry reached for the sword, only noticing there was a smaller one accompanying it as well, located just a bit lower than the other one. Only this smaller one was not of the copper colour but had a tinge of blue. He could see that there were other weapons with nearly the same colour scheme above and below the ones he had chosen.
"Ah! What an. . .interesting choice. These two comes in a set." The teacher remarked. "There are better weapons than those in your hands you know. I would give you a second chance to choose again. . ."
Many of the students were puzzled as to why their strict teacher allowed Harry to choose again, as this act was against his usual teaching. For most of the time, if the students choose the weapon, they stick to it for the whole fight.
"No," Harry replied determinately, "I'll stick with these ones." And thus, the fight began.
The pair danced around the grassy knoll exchanging blows. The teacher choose broad sword, more heavy than what Harry was using but also deals heavy blows to the opponents. Harry, however, managed to dodge the blows easily through instinct and his seeker abilities. There were quite a few close calls, which were visible through tiny cuts in his clothing. But overall, it seemed to Harry that there was a tiny voice in his head, telling him what the next move of his opponent will be.
It started off with a few minor slashes towards Harry, which he blocked with his own sword. Because it was a broad sword that the teacher was using, he was forced to use two hands. Seeing this was his advantage, Harry seized the opportunity and dealt a blow with the smaller of the swords. At the moment, the teacher jumped backwards to avoid it.
"Not bad for a beginner. . .it seemed as though you know what you're doing." Again, the teacher charged.
"This is only the beginning." Harry replied. He knew that in his mind, this was not only a battle of skills, but also of wits. Deep in the recess of his mind, he wanted revenge for the tiresome run he just had not so long ago. The other students only stared at his remark as though Harry had gone crazy.
Harry waited for the blow to come, but there was none. Instead the teacher disappeared into the air. Before any harm was done, Harry noticed he was straight above him in the air and the sun was giving the teacher camouflage. He squinted his eyes to try and make out the shape, but found not help. Instead, he closed his eyes completely. When Harry 'felt' the sudden change in the wind, he moved aside just a step to avoid the broad blade of the teacher. The teacher, was taken by shocked but quickly recomposed himself by back flipping into an open area. There was a moment of silence, stillness rang through the air and not a single drop of wind was blowing.
The sun beating down onto the two fighters and the rest of the students watched in awe and tried to stay away from being hurt. Zephyr, however, was at the front of all the students, taking every single action, memorizing it and savouring it in his mind. He felt a rush of excitement and the exhilaration just by watching. He was, after all, out of the whole class, the only one who were able to come up against their teacher. It wasn't that the class was weak or anything, only they lack the skill and instinct to fight.
Both fighters stared at each other, as though they were gauging and evaluating the opponent. As quick as the silence that came, both fighters threw their weapons to the ground, with the blades embedded into it. This was the signal of the end of the fight and both knew that the end would be only a draw. The spectators were still stunned at the short dance played by both. Zephyr was the first to recover from the stunning presentation and clapped, the rest began the follow.
Harry was stunned at himself as well. Knowing full well that the only time he had handled a sword was back in second year. This time, he was using both to defend and attack. In theory, he should not have been able to do such a stunt yet, he had. However, he did not have any idea as to why he mimicked the final action of the teacher.
"I see that you've had some training before have you not?" The teacher asked walking towards Harry.
"No sir. . .I mean I had handled a sword before, but not in such a way."
"Well, it seems you have the talent. I can see that there are hidden instincts in you. And it is these instincts that taught you how to fight."
Zephyr ran over and patted Harry on the shoulder signalling a job well done. "This is the nearest to a compliment you can expect from him!" He quickly ducked the blow from the teacher.
For the rest of the time, Harry sat at the shade watching the class learn. Although he was asked to participate at the mock duels but there were not enough partners. The teacher had thought it better for him to rest, as he was not used to so much exercise at one time. Watching the other students fight was interesting however, his body got better of him and was in need of rest. After all, he does have at least another hour until Zephyr had finished his lessons.
~Dream Sequence~
It was a lush green hilltop with wisps of breezes blowing through his hair. He could feel the warmth of the sun and smell the freshness of the grass. It was one of those perfect days to go out. He wondered down a winding path leading down into a tiny settlement.
The place was filled with people, little cottages sit by the main road and further down ahead, there were shops filled with ornaments. Stalls open selling fruits, the one next to it sells daggers and then there are those of accessory and fabrics.
Further in the settlement, there was a large structure, quite a few stories high and was built with material that looks like glass. The doors to the place opened up. Inside, was supported with pillars of ivory white and many mahogany doors on each side. The last door he came across was more like a gate, with pulleys and chains to the side of the gate. It is slowly moving upwards with the clattering of chains in the background. A sudden gush of cold air rushed out with the onslaught of light coming from the tiny gap.
~End of Dream Sequence~
"Harry. . .Harry!"
"What?" Harry opened his eyes and realised he fell asleep in the shade. There were still sounds of clashing to signal that the class was still going.
"You ok?" There were a few cuts on his clothing but otherwise, Zephyr was unhurt.
"I'm fine. . ." Harry gave a nod and got up from his place in the shade. "have class finished?"
"Nah, but we're still leaving. The teacher gave us an all clear sign and said not to worry about the old geezers up in the tower."
Harry looked at him in confusion "So, are we still heading into town or are we staying here for three hours until your next class?"
"Let's go and change first, then we'll go and get something to eat in town"
***
A/N: Alright! I've finally finished this chapter! It's so hard to write when you have to revise for things like maths. . .I guess it clogs your mind somewhat right? I have no idea how many people read it but I hope you're all enjoying it! ^ . ^
~BACK STAGE~
Phantom: Well, had a nice fight??
Harry: Why ice-cream??
Phantom: I dunno. I mean I did just have dinner.
Harry: How come the little island is so big?? I mean I looked small from the other side.
Phantom: Magic!
Zephyr: That's just lame. You really need some sugar in your body. And what the heck was happening anyways??
Phantom: Hey! You just came out so get back in there. . .
Harry: You don't make sense. . .
Phantom: I know. . .
Ron: What's happening here??
Phantom: Nothing. Just rest. You won't be coming up for quite some time.
Ron: Dang! Oh well, just give us the pay check first.
Phantom: uh. . .um. . .can I get back on you later? I've. . .got. . .um. . .you know
Ron: Sheesh! Cheap skate! How'd that get here??
Harry, Zephyr: By magic!
Harry: So you wanna drink? We're heading to town.
Author: Mysterious Phantom Shyraz
Disclaimer: Works of Harry Potter and related characters belong to J.K.Rowling, Warner Bros, publishers and distributors. Only limited characters are mine, i.e. Sena and Dana (that goes for name, background and personalities) and so are most of the otherworldly realms, i.e. Ragnarak. Also, the ranking of the Branches of Magic are based on what I know. There were a few more but can't figure how they'll fit. This goes for the Skills as well!
Sixth Night-Swords and Ice-cream?
"First thing, you're going to stay in this pagoda for a while and learn all the 'theory'. Then you'll be travelling to obtain the Arma Forces or AF for short. These will be 'creatures' of summon." Dana rang the phone that mysteriously appeared on the desk where the stack of cards should have been. "Hello? Can you send Zephyr here, thanks."
"Does Zephyr still study here?" Sena asked.
"Yes, he still isn't proficient in the use of skills." She turned towards Harry, who was sitting down, and Dumbledore, who stood beside Harry's chair talking to him to see if there was anything else he remembered. "Albus, would you be staying here with Harry and Sena?"
"Mostly, after all, I'm suppose to be young Harry's mentor when it comes to the practical sessions."
Just then, another person entered. He was similar to Harry in age, only with a pair of silver rimmed glasses masking his cerulean blue eyes. His hair is of the same colour, only that its length is to his hips and tied down.
"Sena!" Zaphyr called out in surprise. "It's been so long!" He gave a heartfelt smile and hugged the young man.
"Zephyr," Sena hugged him in return and let go.
"Zephyr, I want you to show Albus, Sena and Harry to their rooms. They will be staying with us for a while."
"Albus? As in the great Sage Albus Dumbledore? It is a pleasure to meet you sir!" Zephyr shook Dumbledore's hand with enthusiasm.
Dana ignoring the exchange, knowing full well of Zephyr's respect and admiration towards the old Sage, turned towards the other occupants of the room.
"I will leave you all in his hands. Please excuse me for now as I have some businesses to attend to." With that said, Dana disappeared in the thin air.
"This way if you please, we will be walking down to the seventh floor to your rooms." The four people proceeded down the spiral staircase whilst Zephyr gave them a verbal description of the pagoda.
"There are four labs in the basement, two of which are nearly always reserved for alchemists the other one is for public use. Ground floor is the lobby and refectory. Classrooms for theory lessons are on the first floor but as you'll be under Lady Dana's direct tutoring, you'll be mostly studying on the ninth. Second floor is the library, so is the third. Forth is the relaxing facility, with gym, games rooms and other facilities should you wish to have some time off from training. Fifth is the weapons training area, split into two, one of which is a large room that has not been used for a long time." Zephyr trailed off. Sena picked up from that point to inform Dumbledore, who has not been here for a very long time, and Harry.
"The other side of the weapons training area is split into two parts again, one of which is publicly opened for everyone of Ragnarak where the other is for the students here. Sixth floor is the magic training area, split in a similar way. Seventh floor are dormitories, some are single rooms and some are shared rooms, where there could be up to six students. Eighth floor has meditation rooms, ranging from small to large in size, and dimensional doors."
"Let me remind you that do not attempt to open any of the locked doors. They're reserved rooms."
Upon reaching the seventh floor, Zephyr opened the door separating the staircase with the dormitory. When the door is opened, a large common room, similar to the Griffindor common room back in Hogwarts, was exposed to the three guests. There are several corridors leading to five different directions. Zephyr took his role as a tour guide.
"The seventh floor is separated into several areas. Here is the common room. The one on the left is towards the shared rooms, commonly known as the Blair area. Going clockwise is the Jefferson area, which has single and large rooms for public trainees and trainers, Beaulieu area, which is where the graduate stays, Syberia area, which are single rooms for students, and the One area, locked and no one knows what is in there. It's been nearly two century Ragnarak time since it was last opened." Zephyr handed a set of keys to Dumbledore. "Sage Dumbledore, your room is the third one on the right of Jefferson, Sena, your in your old room in Beaulieu, you have your keys with you. Harry, you follow me to Syberia." The guests split up in their different direction, fully trusting the securities placed in the pagoda, left Harry in the care of Zephyr.
Harry, leaving Zephyr to lead the way, entered the third corridor. Inside, the walls were plain with light globes mounted in between each door. The doors were wooden colour but upon closer inspection, it felt and looked as though it was made of metal. They reached nearly the end of the corridor and stopped at around three doors before.
"This is your room," Zephyr opened the door. "changes of clothes could be found in the wardrobe. Food is served all day on the refectory on ground floor but the elevation platform will be switched off at around midnight and reopens at dawn. My room is just diagonal to yours. If you need help, knock on my door." Zephyr was just about to head out. "Ah! I forgot to tell you, we are not to enter other areas, same goes for people from other areas, they are not to enter Syberia."
"So that was why you didn't show Professor Dumbledore to his room in Jefferson." Harry thought out loud.
"Um, if you don't mind me asking, why did you call Sage Dumbledore 'Professor'?"
"Out of habit I guess, I mean after all he is the headmaster of Hogwarts."
"Hogwarts?"
"The school that I go to, school of witchcraft and wizardry. But you don't have anything like that here do you?"
"No. . . " there was a pause between the two boys. Then, Zephyr closed the door, but stayed in the room. "Do you mind telling me more about your world? What is it like?"
"Hm. . . I don't know how to describe it, but you can say it's separated into magical and non-magical community. . . "
The conversation revolving around Earth continued passed midnight, topics ranging from M&M's to chocolate frogs, downtown London to Knockturn Alley. Though one thing that Harry did not mention was Voldemort as he didn't want to make a bad impression of his world.
"What about you? Where did you come from? What was your world like?" Harry asked after finishing his tale of Triwiazard tournament and the Department of Mysteries.
Zephyr looked into Harry's eyes as if searching for something. It seemed hours for Harry that the paused prolonged, but it was only seconds. Finally, as if he found what he was looking for, Zephyr spoke.
"I don't know what to tell you. There's nothing special about it, it's a defeated realm. One where most men are off to war, women worked at camps and children looking for valuables and food. . . "
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring up bad memories."
"Don't worry about it," Zephyr smiled brightly but with a hint of sadness lingering in his eyes. "its been a long time since I last went back. It might have changed for better! Well, it's late. Sorry for troubling you. Goodnight!"
After escorting Zephyr to the door, silence rang throughout the room, not that Harry wasn't used to it by now. But the sudden departure of Zephyr left Harry thinking if it was his fault.
***
That night, Harry did not have a peaceful dream. Although it was nice knowing that he was being trained, and in his perspective learning new ways to defeat Voldemort, and that he found his parents again. Nightmares still plague his nights.
"Where I am?" Harry asked in his dream, which echoed for a long time.
Fingers pointed towards him, the moist lands beneath his feet turned barren. The sky changed from the blue colour to scarlet red then black, leaving nothing but darkness. The wind started to moan and painful song. Light whispers were in the air, saying something that Harry could not understand. The whispers grew louder and louder until it was audible.
"YOU!" One voice spoke up.
"YOU!" Many other voices echoed with fingers and wands appearing into the scene.
"DIE!" A much louder voice called out.
"KILL!" Another one answered.
"Noooo" Voices echoed in the air.
"Harry, leave now! I'll handle this." Sirius' vague form appeared in the scene.
"Sirius, you're ok. You're not hurt!" Harry ran towards the figure.
"AVADA KEDAVRA" There was a thump right in front of Harry.
"RON!" Another figure appeared, then another. Soon the whole floor was littered with bodies upon bodies. Then, just as they appeared gradually, they turned into skeletons.
"NO, this is not happening. . . this can't be. . . it can't be the. . . end. . . " the final word was whispered out by Harry.
***
Screams, pain, sadness, all filled his dreams. And it was until Harry could stand no more of this, he woke up. Drenched in sweat and face with two streaming lines of tears. He looked out to what he thought was his window. The sun rising, but it wasn't an unusual practice for Harry to wake up early.
It was the first day that he's here, but it felt as if he's been here for the whole time. Heading towards the bathroom and grabbing a change of clothes, he began the daily morning routine. Glancing at the clock on one of the walls, it read 7:00am.
'At least these are normal clocks. I really don't know how to read the bewitched ones. . .'
After the relaxing shower, he came back out to find only fifteen minutes had passed. Then, there was a knock on the door. Harry headed to open it, to invite whichever guest it was.
"You want to go to breakfast with me?" Was the morning greeting given by Zephyr to Harry. "I'm sure Sena is down there already. He gets up really early. . ." Without waiting for a reply from Harry, Zephyr grabbed his hands and off they went down to the refectory.
***
"Good morning Zephyr, Master Harry." Zephyr and Harry joined Sena at the table with their serve of breakfast consisting of eggs, beacon, toast and milk tea for Zephyr and similar for Harry with the slight change of milk tea to orange juice. The meal was consumed with conversations.
"Harry," Dumbledore appeared behind Harry just when he stood up to put away his tray. Zephyr, seeing a conversation was about to take place, took his leave along with Harry's tray.
"Dana told me she wouldn't be able to take your lessons for a while and wishes you to take the lessons with Zephyr. Is that alright with you?" Dumbledore asked both Harry and Zephyr who was coming back.
Both nodded at the suggestion as Harry wasn't sure what will happen and Zephyr because he liked Harry's company. Dumbledore turned to speak to Sena in turn.
"Would you like to come with me for a while? I'm sure there's no harm here, so you won't need to worry about him." Dumbledore stood, waiting for Sena to stand up. Sena turned around, to see Harry and Zephyr talking amiably.
Dumbledore added, talking to himself mostly "I haven't seen Harry talking and smiling so much in one day. Even when he was with his friends, he haven't opened up so much. It'd surprise Molly and Arthur. . ." He shook his head both dismissing the thought and indicating Sena to not worry. And with that, both said a quick 'goodbye' and left the refectory.
***
Harry was telling Zephyr about Quidditch this time when Dumbledore and Sena left the refectory. Not long later, a group of people, not younger than Harry gathered around them.
"Well, well, well. If it isn't Zeph. We thought we'd never see you again after what happened. Tell me, how does it feel to kill, to seduce?" He was blond, pale and smiled sweetly as he innocently said the words, awaiting for its impact. He took a seat on the other side of Zephyr like old friends.
'So much like to Draco Malfoy' Harry thought. Looking around, there were two 'bodyguards' behind this Malfoy-look-alike but quite largely built and seems to have a higher intelligence than Crabbe and Goyle. There were also three girls flanking behind this group, just trailing a bit behind the 'bodyguards'.
"Really Zeph, you know you should never have got away from us." The one with a red ponytail smiled at him and draped her arms around Zephyr's neck. Another, who has the same coloured hair, only wore it at a much shorter length, let her arms draped around Harry, who was sitting next to Zephyr not saying a word the whole time, in the similar way.
"And who's this? Another one of those from your place? You know, if you want to become one of us, it's easy." She was saying this more to Harry than others. "Well, what lovely eyes you have. Tell me love, what's your name?" She cocked her head and looked at Harry seducing.
"Leave him alone!" Zephyr blurted out, much to everyone's surprise and shaking off the girl.
"Well, seems like you've gain a bit of confidence now haven't we?" One of the 'bodyguard' looked with much disgust towards Zephyr.
"Come off him," the pale blond said as though trying to defend Zephyr. It was weird for Harry to watch, but this seems too much like Hogwarts. "after all, you can't blame him for trying to defend a so-called friend. Right Zeph?" The bell suddenly rang to signal the start of the day.
"Well, save by the bell yet again? I'm sure we'll meet again sometime today. Afterall, you have been avoiding us. Try not to do it again!" He winked at Zephyr and stood up. Turing to Harry, he hastily added sweetly "It's nice be of your acquaintance whoever you are. We hope to the pleasure of knowing more about you sometime. But now, we must take our leave."
Other in the refectory gave way to the group of six as they stroll out of the room. During the whole encounter, the whole room was silent and a pin drop could be heard. But now, everyone seemed to have realised it was time for classes to begin and the rustling and bustling of the day re-emerged. Confirming that those people have left, Zephyr signalled Harry to follow him.
"We have Phys Ed right now, but after that I have a three hour break. I thought you might like to go out to town later."
"I'd love to!" Harry was enthusiastic about the idea of looking around the place. Although he had been here for quite a few days now, but he haven't the chance to have a guided tour.
***
Although Harry had ran before, and mostly away from Dudley and his gang, but this was more hectic than he had experienced. Even though people knew he was 'new' and all, but it seems that these teachers never care. After thirty minutes of continued running up and down the 'little' hill on the 'Pagoda Island' as Harry called it, everyone, not only Harry, was tired out and running out of breath.
"Why. . . does. . .he. . .always. . .do. . .this. . . ?" Harry heard one of the pupil next to him panting, heaving and breathing hardly.
"Its. . .they're. . . just. . .crazy!" another one commented.
"Any more comments, I'll have you all running for more!" the teacher warned and all of the pupil went silent. Not wanting to do any more exercise than needed. Harry turned to Zephyr to seek and explanation.
"Don't. . .need. . ." Zephyr took a deep breath and tried to speak again, he was light headed from all the running. "He's one of the strictest teachers here. What he says is definite and he would give in to no one. So don't bother trying to get around not doing anything, he doesn't care"
After the running, everything returned to what Zephyr commented as normal, where they picked up weapons and tried to kill the teacher. It was said to be a way to test them of their actual fitness and skills. Though Harry was not quite sure what it meant, yet he was 'invited' to join in to the so- called 'festivities'.
"I understand that you're new to this. But since your in my class, you'll participate all the same. However, you need to choose your weapons first." He motioned the wall behind him.
It contained many weapons, from projectile types to blades and lances. In spite that there are many glittering weapons, Harry's eyes were focused on a copper-coloured hilt. It wasn't one of the more attractive weapons, rather, it was one of those that tends to be overlooked. The blade itself looked a bit rustic and was a bit well for wear. But other than that, it looked as though it was unbreakable. Harry reached for the sword, only noticing there was a smaller one accompanying it as well, located just a bit lower than the other one. Only this smaller one was not of the copper colour but had a tinge of blue. He could see that there were other weapons with nearly the same colour scheme above and below the ones he had chosen.
"Ah! What an. . .interesting choice. These two comes in a set." The teacher remarked. "There are better weapons than those in your hands you know. I would give you a second chance to choose again. . ."
Many of the students were puzzled as to why their strict teacher allowed Harry to choose again, as this act was against his usual teaching. For most of the time, if the students choose the weapon, they stick to it for the whole fight.
"No," Harry replied determinately, "I'll stick with these ones." And thus, the fight began.
The pair danced around the grassy knoll exchanging blows. The teacher choose broad sword, more heavy than what Harry was using but also deals heavy blows to the opponents. Harry, however, managed to dodge the blows easily through instinct and his seeker abilities. There were quite a few close calls, which were visible through tiny cuts in his clothing. But overall, it seemed to Harry that there was a tiny voice in his head, telling him what the next move of his opponent will be.
It started off with a few minor slashes towards Harry, which he blocked with his own sword. Because it was a broad sword that the teacher was using, he was forced to use two hands. Seeing this was his advantage, Harry seized the opportunity and dealt a blow with the smaller of the swords. At the moment, the teacher jumped backwards to avoid it.
"Not bad for a beginner. . .it seemed as though you know what you're doing." Again, the teacher charged.
"This is only the beginning." Harry replied. He knew that in his mind, this was not only a battle of skills, but also of wits. Deep in the recess of his mind, he wanted revenge for the tiresome run he just had not so long ago. The other students only stared at his remark as though Harry had gone crazy.
Harry waited for the blow to come, but there was none. Instead the teacher disappeared into the air. Before any harm was done, Harry noticed he was straight above him in the air and the sun was giving the teacher camouflage. He squinted his eyes to try and make out the shape, but found not help. Instead, he closed his eyes completely. When Harry 'felt' the sudden change in the wind, he moved aside just a step to avoid the broad blade of the teacher. The teacher, was taken by shocked but quickly recomposed himself by back flipping into an open area. There was a moment of silence, stillness rang through the air and not a single drop of wind was blowing.
The sun beating down onto the two fighters and the rest of the students watched in awe and tried to stay away from being hurt. Zephyr, however, was at the front of all the students, taking every single action, memorizing it and savouring it in his mind. He felt a rush of excitement and the exhilaration just by watching. He was, after all, out of the whole class, the only one who were able to come up against their teacher. It wasn't that the class was weak or anything, only they lack the skill and instinct to fight.
Both fighters stared at each other, as though they were gauging and evaluating the opponent. As quick as the silence that came, both fighters threw their weapons to the ground, with the blades embedded into it. This was the signal of the end of the fight and both knew that the end would be only a draw. The spectators were still stunned at the short dance played by both. Zephyr was the first to recover from the stunning presentation and clapped, the rest began the follow.
Harry was stunned at himself as well. Knowing full well that the only time he had handled a sword was back in second year. This time, he was using both to defend and attack. In theory, he should not have been able to do such a stunt yet, he had. However, he did not have any idea as to why he mimicked the final action of the teacher.
"I see that you've had some training before have you not?" The teacher asked walking towards Harry.
"No sir. . .I mean I had handled a sword before, but not in such a way."
"Well, it seems you have the talent. I can see that there are hidden instincts in you. And it is these instincts that taught you how to fight."
Zephyr ran over and patted Harry on the shoulder signalling a job well done. "This is the nearest to a compliment you can expect from him!" He quickly ducked the blow from the teacher.
For the rest of the time, Harry sat at the shade watching the class learn. Although he was asked to participate at the mock duels but there were not enough partners. The teacher had thought it better for him to rest, as he was not used to so much exercise at one time. Watching the other students fight was interesting however, his body got better of him and was in need of rest. After all, he does have at least another hour until Zephyr had finished his lessons.
~Dream Sequence~
It was a lush green hilltop with wisps of breezes blowing through his hair. He could feel the warmth of the sun and smell the freshness of the grass. It was one of those perfect days to go out. He wondered down a winding path leading down into a tiny settlement.
The place was filled with people, little cottages sit by the main road and further down ahead, there were shops filled with ornaments. Stalls open selling fruits, the one next to it sells daggers and then there are those of accessory and fabrics.
Further in the settlement, there was a large structure, quite a few stories high and was built with material that looks like glass. The doors to the place opened up. Inside, was supported with pillars of ivory white and many mahogany doors on each side. The last door he came across was more like a gate, with pulleys and chains to the side of the gate. It is slowly moving upwards with the clattering of chains in the background. A sudden gush of cold air rushed out with the onslaught of light coming from the tiny gap.
~End of Dream Sequence~
"Harry. . .Harry!"
"What?" Harry opened his eyes and realised he fell asleep in the shade. There were still sounds of clashing to signal that the class was still going.
"You ok?" There were a few cuts on his clothing but otherwise, Zephyr was unhurt.
"I'm fine. . ." Harry gave a nod and got up from his place in the shade. "have class finished?"
"Nah, but we're still leaving. The teacher gave us an all clear sign and said not to worry about the old geezers up in the tower."
Harry looked at him in confusion "So, are we still heading into town or are we staying here for three hours until your next class?"
"Let's go and change first, then we'll go and get something to eat in town"
***
A/N: Alright! I've finally finished this chapter! It's so hard to write when you have to revise for things like maths. . .I guess it clogs your mind somewhat right? I have no idea how many people read it but I hope you're all enjoying it! ^ . ^
~BACK STAGE~
Phantom: Well, had a nice fight??
Harry: Why ice-cream??
Phantom: I dunno. I mean I did just have dinner.
Harry: How come the little island is so big?? I mean I looked small from the other side.
Phantom: Magic!
Zephyr: That's just lame. You really need some sugar in your body. And what the heck was happening anyways??
Phantom: Hey! You just came out so get back in there. . .
Harry: You don't make sense. . .
Phantom: I know. . .
Ron: What's happening here??
Phantom: Nothing. Just rest. You won't be coming up for quite some time.
Ron: Dang! Oh well, just give us the pay check first.
Phantom: uh. . .um. . .can I get back on you later? I've. . .got. . .um. . .you know
Ron: Sheesh! Cheap skate! How'd that get here??
Harry, Zephyr: By magic!
Harry: So you wanna drink? We're heading to town.