Disclaimer: This story is based on the characters and events created by JK Rowling. Publishing rights and copyright owned by JK Rowling, Bloomsbury, Scholastic, Warner Bros., and others I may not have mentioned. No money is being made by this story.
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Harry Potter and the Final Struggle
My will shall shape the future.
Whether I fail or succeed shall be no man's doing but my own.
I am the force; I can clear any obstacle before me or I can be lost in the maze.
My choice; my responsibility;
win or lose, only I hold the key to my destiny.
--Elaine Maxwell--
Chapter 2
To Take a Stand and Make Preparations
It has been five days since Harry arrived at Privet Drive and looking back it felt a lot longer. Opening his eyes, he stared at the ceiling and thought of the past and the future, a habit that was taking more and more of his time. He needed to prepare, needed to be ready for what's to come. Staring at the ceiling, he could no longer make out the blurry outlines of the water stains that grew wider and wider at every storm. Instead, it had been painted white, a blank slate, one which always forced his mind to other thing, mostly the events that occurred during his last days at Hogwarts.
In the next room a loud snoring and muttering could be heard with an occasional "think you're so tough... I'll show you... pay for that you little..." from Dudley. Knowing that he will not be able to get back to sleep he took a deep breath and grunted as he got up to do his early morning routine.
At any other summer holidays, his aunt's screeching voice would be the one to wake him. This summer is different. He had taken it upon himself to get up early, much earlier than his aunt and uncle. He sat at the edge of his bed after changing into one of Dudley's old green shirt and shorts that, thankfully, fit him and pulled on his socks and trainers.
He heaved a sigh and headed out the door, down the steps, trough the front door, and into the cool early morning air. It was still dark outside and the street lamps that dotted the street every few meters provided the only light. Taking a deep breath, Harry started running, a routine he was determined to do every morning. On the first day, he ran to the park, only stopping every five minutes and was deeply out of breath. Five days later, his stamina improved and managed a steady pace for half an hour, before feeling the strain on his muscles. It times like these, when all around him, everything was quiet and filled with peace that his mind would slip back into itself.
Five days... and so much has happened already.
Looking back five days ago, his memory of the meeting with the Minister of Magic was still fresh in his memory. Well... more like an interrogation...
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Harry was being escorted through the ornate lobby of the Ministry flanked by his guards, the richly polished floor shining as if brand new. Paintings of famous and important wizards decorated the walls and at the very center of it all was the very same Fountain of Magical Brethren. It was repaired and looked the same as the first time he saw it.
The lobby of the ministry was filled to the capacity by reporters of various media from all over Europe. News of the attack on students has already reached every corner of the continent. Dozens upon dozens of cameras went off at once after entering the lobby.
"Minister! Minister Scrimgeour... how could this happen..." A man sporting a large purple pointy had in matching purple robes and holding a self inking quill and parchment was only one voice amongst the crowd.
"Is it true? That the ministry was able to destroy dementors?" said another.
"Were there casualties?"
"How many were there?"
The questions went on and on but were largely ignored by the minister and his guards. Once the reports realized that Harry was amongst the group that entered the ministry accompanied by the minister himself, he was bombarded with questions, much of which he tried to ignore. Harry kept waking and looking straight ahead with the intentions of getting this over as quickly as possible.
"Mr. Potter! Mr. Potter... Over here!"
"Mr. Potter... What role did you play in stopping the dementors?"
"Were you the one who destroyed them?"
He followed the Minister through the crowd whilst completely surrounded by his guard. Dozens more aurors were pushing the reporters back and forming a path through the crowd, towards the lift. Harry stared only at the lift, wishing he were there now and out of the spotlight.
They led him to the lift and got off a floor that opened to a long winding hallway that ended in a large and richly decorated door. Harry expected the door to open to an office that would compliment the door, but was surprised when it revealed a simple room with a large but simple table covered with scrolls of parchments.
"Surprised aren't you?" said the Minister after registering Harry's reaction.
Harry immediately hid his surprise, though it was far too late for that. He expected the other aurors to leave the two of them alone; instead they closed the door behind them as they entered.
"Sit down Mr. Potter," gestured the minister at the wooden chair in front of the table. Harry sat without saying a word and not taking his eyes of the minister as the aurors stood by the door and at equal intervals around the room. He noticed Dawlish amongst them.
"Well Harry. You put on quite a show didn't you?" The Minister sat down behind the desk and leaned towards Harry. Harry could feel the tension in the air as the silence continued. "No one's ever managed to destroy a dementor before. The Patronus Charm is not designed for that. In fact, there is no known way to destroy those things, until now..."
The Minister waited for Harry to explain himself but he wouldn't give him the benefit. Instead he continued to stare straight at the Minister. He wasn't about to make it easy on them and have them manipulate him.
"Fine," the Minister grunted. "Even though you will not cooperate with the ministry, you've just confirmed in people's mind that you are indeed 'The Chosen One.' They will expect more from you. Expect you to fulfill your duty to them and stand beside the ministry."
"With all due respect, sir, one does not need to stand beside the ministry to fulfill their duty," replied Harry. Gotta give him credit. He doesn't give up does he? But then... that can also be a bad thing.
"Can it be that the faith of the wizarding world was given to the wrong person? Will you do nothing?" He tried to keep his voice calm and in control in front of this boy, but a hint of irritation was obvious.
"I never said I would do nothing." A simple statement with multiple meanings. Everyone present caught it but didn't know what to make of it.
"How did you do it? How were you able to destroy those dementors?" interrupted the auror guarding the door. Finally someone with the brains to ask the right questions... Too but I don't know the answer. Heh...
"Mr. Potter, this is Gawain Robards, head of the auror division," introduced the Minister.
The two nodded at each other.
"I don't know how I did it. This was the first time I've ever done it."
"Surely, you must remember what you were thinking, your wand movement, or anything you said or did differently from normal casting of the Patronus Charm," insisted another leaning on a wall with arms crossed.
Every single person held their breath, expecting this boy to confirm that he had done something differently and that the amount of his magical potential was not the main factor for summoning a patronus with that kind of ability. He can't be that powerful can he?
"I said and did all that is required for casting the charm. I did nothing differently. I have no idea why it resulted in that." He stressed every single syllable, hoping they would accept it.
"But you didn't look surprised when you saw it happen. It was like you expected it," came Dawlish's voice from behind.
Looking at him, he said, "I wasn't thinking clearly and can't remember every single detail of what happened. I don't understand it either myself, so I can't tell you more about the matter." Dawlish could tell from his eyes that he was telling the truth. Perhaps the mystery surrounding this boy was bigger than anyone had previously thought.
More and more questions continued to bombard Harry about the attack, the prophesy, and finally Dumbledore. It was the same questions as before and Harry was getting tired of hearing it but he let them ask. The answers he gave to their questions were three words or less. "I don't know," "don't remember," "can't tell you," "yes," and "no." Hopefully, they'd get the clue...
"Mr. Potter, this will be a lot easier if you cooperate with us. We can help you with what ever you need, train you and offer you protection. We will even allow you to enter the auror training program this summer if that is what you wish. But we will need your cooperation. All we need are information at Dumbledore's doings and dealings and what you two were up to that night. If he was taking steps to destroy you-know-who, then we must know it! We have the power and the means to stop him if only we have the information we need. Do you not understand this Mr. Potter?" growled the Minister. It was clear he was loosing his patience as the interrogation continued.
"Sir, I understand this. But what is also important is what you do with this information. Forgive me, but as I recall, last year, Dumbledore and I were willing to give the ministry the information it needed. However, the only response the Ministry gave was to try and discredit us. Do you really think I will be so willing to be manipulated and used by this institution whose main purpose a year ago was convince everyone I was a mentally unstable? No sir. I will not be used. I cannot agree to appear to support all you do when in fact I don't." Harry was becoming more and more irritated, maybe more so than the minister. By the end of this speech he was saying it through clenched teeth. Not once did he raise his voice like he did that night in Dumbledore's office.
"Then we will have no choice but to detain you until you have divulged these information with us," threatened the minister. Some of the aurors were startled with this threat and were looking at the minister questioningly.
Harry was not worried and sensed it as a bluff. "And what will you tell the people and the reporters downstairs when they find out that you're detaining me after what I did? As I recall, there were many eye witness who saw what happened. Don't you think they will be upset if you did what you threatened to do? That you're keeping the Chosen One locked up after saving their lives?" He never took pleasure in referring to himself by this title or any title the public referred to him by, but in this case, it does have its uses.
Letting out a small growl, the minister knew he had been caught, but he wouldn't give up that easily. A rift between the ministry and the Chosen One will not help the war effort. This will not give the people the hope and the confidence they need in fighting the war. Instead it will leave the people divided, unsure, and scared about their safety. Their confidence in the ministry's ability to defend them and defeat He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named will weaken. No matter what, this cannot happen. I will not let this happen. He'll just have to venture more cautiously with matters concerning this boy.
After about two hours of questioning and getting no where. The irritated group of aurors and Minister finally released him and had a ministry car drive him to Privet Drive.
"That kid can become a liability if we do not rein him in." The Minister growled as he paced behind his desk. The other aurors agreed, but reining him in may not be the best choice to get his cooperation. Some still remain skeptic at the kid's ability but no one can deny what he did a few hours back.
"What are we going to tell the Prophet? How are we going to explain this?" asked Robards.
"We'll give them facts on what happened, but do not give them any explanations regarding Mr. Potter. Let the wizarding community believe of him what they will. Perhaps they will be able to force his hand to cooperating with the ministry."
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Feeling the cool air on his face drove him back to the present. He increased his speed when he realized that he had slowed down to jog while his mind was on the ministry. He wasn't sure what he would do with them. He was sure that he did not agree with all the dealings of the Ministry. Even though it was an improvement from the previous year, there were still too many problems.
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Upon arriving at his aunt and uncle's house, he gave a great sigh. One last time. Just one last time and I'll never have to see them again. It was nearing midnight when the ministry car dropped him off and he was sure that when he rings the bell, his uncle will give him the old lecture about not having the decency, being inconsiderate of other people, and having no respect towards that people who took you in.
Shaking his head, he pressed the bell.
Ding-dong...
The door opened and lo and behold, a sight that not even his wildest dreams could ever produce greeted him.
Behind the door stood a large man dressed in a newly pressed suit, a tall and thin woman in a white blouse and brown skirt, and a teenage boy that was the exact replica of the father with the exception that he was wider than the former. What unnerved the boy who rang the bell was what he saw on their faces. Smiles. Looking more closely he was sure they were in pain doing that. He didn't know whether he should turn around and walk away or turn around and run away.
"Must have the wrong house..." mumbled Harry.
"Harry! My dear boy, good to have you back!" his uncle greeted excitedly. He was pulled into the house and was given a pat on the back. No hugs, just a pat, one a person would give a pet dog on the head.
Yup, they really are in pain. He thinks he can hazard a guess at the sudden partiality on his behalf, but wasn't so sure yet.
Looking at his aunt, uncle, and cousin, they were still wearing those smiles. He felt like he would gag if this continued. It was so unnatural!
"Dudders, go take Harry's stuff up to his room," said his aunt Petunia in her sweetest voice, too sweet he noticed.
"Sure mom!"
"Uhhh... no that's alright I can manage."
"Don't worry about it Harry. I don't mind. Besides you just got back, you must be hungry," Dudley said, still wearing that smile. With that, he disappeared up the stairs with Harry's trunk and Hedwig's cage. Harry was beginning to feel nervous. Maybe someone cast the Imperius Curse on them?
Harry was herded into the kitchen and forced to sit down in front of a warm meal which was twice, no, three times as much as they usually give him. There were steaks, mashed potatoes, and corn on his plate. Beside the plate sat one of uncle Vernon's finest wines which he usually saves for special occasions.
His aunt and uncle sat opposite him and pretended to be interested in his life for once; inquiring on his health and his journey home, but avoided talking about magic and Hogwarts. The only reply he gave were, "good", "uh-huh", "yeah", and "okay." They seemed to be satisfied and because he didn't really want to speak with them, he didn't care to elaborate. And they're still smiling!
Harry continued to pick at his mashed potatoes and only managed a bite of steak as his aunt and uncle droned on.
"When we heard... we were so worried. Loosing a god father and all. You must have been devastated!" aunt Petunia's smile disappeared for a few seconds to add to the effect, but returned the next second. "But don't worry, you'll always have us."
I knew it! Finally! They get to the point! Do they really expect me to share anything with them? Hell no! I wonder how much they'll go through to try and get some of my inheritance. Guess I'll just have to find out.
Uncle Vernon, aunt Petunia, I'm really tired, do you mind if I just go upstairs and sleep?" asked Harry. In the next few weeks, for the rest of his stay here, he intends to put them through their paces.
"Sure Harry, you go upstairs and we'll clean up here," said aunt Petunia. Harry got up and left the kitchen. Not until he was out of their sight was he able to take a deep breath. He climbed the stairs and hoped against all hope that Dudley was not in his room and was out of sight. He really was exhausted after all.
When his head hit the pillow he looked at Hedwig and remembered that he was supposed to write Mr. Weasley a letter when he arrived.
Hmm... That'll just have to wait. He got off the bed and took Hedwig out of her cage and sent her out the window. No need to keep her locked up.
Looking at Hedwig's retreating form, he promised to write Mr. Weasley first thing in the morning. Right now, his first priority was rest.
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After his morning exercise, which included running, push-ups, sit-ups, and weight lifting using his cousin's set of weights, he took a cold shower. It was only six in the morning and everyone was still asleep. Drying himself and wrapping a towel around his waist, he looked in the mirror to see whether the exercise was paying off. It's only been five days and already he can see some results. Not much, but there were results.
He was well over five feet, eight inches just by looking. His arms had developed some muscles and his chest was a little bit more defined than when he arrived at Privet Drive. All he can do during his last few weeks at Privet Drive is to prepare himself for battle magically, mentally, and physically.
Harry got dressed and decided to get started on improving his magic, not practical magic since he's still considered underage, but the theory behind defensive, offensive, and restorative magic. He never had much patience with these things during school semester, but after Dumbledore... Well... Everything has changed now.
He still couldn't believe how much trouble the Dursleys would go through just to get some money. They were feeding him more, which means he wouldn't become thinner this summer, but at the same time he refrains from eating too much and ending up like Dudley. Their attitude towards him has changed also. Chores were now optional, though he chose to do them to get the exercise or just to get away from them. Their way of speaking has dramatically changed after finding out Harry's inheritance the previous summer.
Last but not least, his room was different. In the past years, when one approaches the room, one would come by a door with a cat flap and several bolts and locks placed outside the door. Now, that door was no longer there and was replaced by a brand new door painted white with a lock from the inside instead of out. Entering the room it used to be bare with only the small number of old and broken furnitures: an old bed and mattress with broken springs, a table with a broken drawer, dresser with broken handles, a closet that smelled like something had died there, and a full length mirror that was cracked in many places, caused by Dudley years ago when he threw a tantrum. Now, his room was freshly painted with fixed furniture, not new, but also not broken. Sometimes he felt like he doesn't belong here, which he truly believe for years now. But it didn't feel like he's ever stayed in this room. Sometimes he thinks he would be more comfortable having the Dursleys hate him and have his old and broken room back. It was what he was used to coming from them. But the other part of him, argues that he deserves better and if the Dursleys thinks this would get them in his good side, then let them think that way and take it for all its worth.
Like this will make up for years of neglect? Harry snorted. Think again. Can't wait 'till I'm of age. Revenge will be sweet. Smirking, he can't wait to see their faces when it happens!
Harry picked up Advanced Defensive Magic and its Use Against the Dark Arts on his desk. It was the second volume of the book Sirius and Lupin gave him two Christmas ago and had ordered it by owl a few days back along with other magic and potion books. Underneath that, was the advanced potion book that once belonged to the Half-blood Prince, which turned out to be Snape. He had snuck back into the Room of Requirement just before returning to King's Cross to retrieve the book. As much as he detested that man and would like nothing more than to make him pay, there were knowledge in that book that would be very useful. He wasn't stupid enough to let his hatred against the man from trying to absorb knowledge that will be very useful in tight situations.
Besides books on advanced potions, defensive and offensive magic, restorative magic, and many more books on other areas of magic, the table was littered with opened letters from his friends, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, and Hagrid, the half giant professor and Keeper of Keys at Hogwarts. As he had promised, he had written a letter to Mr. Weasley the morning after his arrival and in return he was bombarded with letters from them expressing their concern and giving their advice and opinion in handling the minister.
Other than the ministry, the Prophet was also proving to be a problem. It's true that they are becoming useful in spreading the most recent news about the war, but about half the article printed nowadays mentions him.
Harry Potter Defends Students from Attack
By Peper Otzi
It was a devastating end of school term that followed yet an even
more devastating event. What should be a safe and routine ride
back to King's Cross turned out to be quite the opposite. Our
children, returning by Hogwarts Express and protected by aurors
were attacked! Most likely under the order of He-Who-Must-Not-
Be-Named. Ambushed by dozens, some have even sworn hundreds,
of dementors. More than a dozen aurors had been assigned to
protect our children on their journey home. But even with all the
training and experience, they were not able to push back and
drive the dementors away.
It seemed hopeless as the darkness and fear held our young ones
by the throat, driving away all happiness they have ever experienced
in their short lives. But wait... Just as the flame that holds all our
hopes in our hearts was about to extinguish, someone comes along
reignited it to burn even brighter than before. This someone is none
other than Harry James Potter, the Boy-Who-Lived, the Chosen One.
This extraordinary young man risked his life to save every soul in the
train by taking a stand. Producing a corporeal patronus in the form
a stag, a feat that is very difficult especially at such a young age, he
chased down the dementors and managed to drive them out with the
help of a few classmates that claims to have been taught to produce
the patronus charm by our very own Mr. Potter.
This article was one of the very first that was printed the day after the attack and continued to the third page. On the second page, the articles printed were about the ministry's response and the outrage expressed by the parents. Days following this article, more editions of the Prophet printed more articles about him.
The Chosen One: Powers Revealed
By Peter Wright
Never, in all of the history of the wizarding world everywhere has
this happened before. What you may ask? The destruction of
dementors. Upon closer investigation of the atrocious attack by
the dementors, it was discovered that indeed no less than two
dozen dementors were destroyed that night and was confirmed by
the many students and aurors designated to protect them.
"It was amazing he summoned a corporeal stag patronus and he
had them attack the dementors. It was huge... the stag, I mean,"
explained an amazed third year Ravenclaw.
"The patronus charged down the dementors and ripped them to
pieces. It was awful... the sound that came out as that happened.
We were lucky he was there," another recalled.
Of course these people are all talking about the very same person.
Harry Potter. Mr. Potter has achieved the impossible yet again.
Surviving the Killing Curse at the tender age of one, he has managed
to destroy these dementors. Could this be that the powers of the
Chosen One are manifesting themselves. Could it be that Mr. Potter
has finally decided to take an active role in the war and rid us of He-
Who-Must-Not-Be-Named once and for all?
When the ministry was asked to comment on this matter, the only
response this reporter and citizen received was "No comment."
Though it was general knowledge that our minister had a private
meeting with Mr. Potter upon arrival at King's Cross, nothing else
is known as to what transpired between the two. Mr. Potter's role in
this war...
And this continued for another page.
Boy Who Lived and His Accomplishments. So far...
By Sam Arker and Philip Ensil
It has been two days since that terrible attack on Hogwarts Express.
Days since we've last heard of our hero. One wonders how he was
capable of such things at such a young age, but looking back at his
accomplishments, is it really a surprise that he did the incredible?
The impossible?Let's take a moment to give a brief summary on the life, the dangers,
accomplishments, and adventures of Mr. Harry James Potter...
Brief? They call this brief. The article continued to page five and went on for three pages that covered his parent's murder, Voldemort's defeat, and covered his first year up to the train ride a few days ago.
Deciding to ignore the articles praising him, he opened Advanced Defensive Magic and its Use Against the Dark Arts and continued to study until he heard a tapping on his window. Looking up he saw a small owl he recognized as Pigwidgeon, or Pig for short.
He opened the window to let the small owl in, and it flew past his head, ruffling his scruffy hair. He knows that Pig viewed this as some kind of game, making it difficult for the recipient of the letter to get it. But Harry, being a seeker since his first year, this task was not too difficult. He caught Pig in a matter of seconds and untied the letters attached to its leg. When he released the small owl, it flew around the room haphazardly, occasionally knocking into the wall and other furniture.
Shaking his head, Harry opened one of the letters to reveal Hermione's hand writing.
Harry,
I hope your aunt, uncle, and cousin are treating you well this summer. Uhh...
Maybe "well" is not the correct word but I'm sure you understand my meaning.
Just remember, this is your last month with them, then you'll never have to see
or hear from them again. Ever! Keep that in mind and hopefully that will be
enough to encourage you to look ahead and put up with them for the mean time.
Now, on to the matter at hand. I've been spending as much time I can with my
parents, but haven't told them of my plans. They will not be happy with me, I'm
sure, but if I tell them now, they'll prevent me from doing what I have to do. I'll
tell them once it's done.
They've also read about the war in the wizarding world from the parchments
the ministry have been sending to wizarding community and muggle parents
of students. They were not willing to have me go back to Hogwarts after
learning this. We even had a row about it. However, I was able to convince
them that the school was a lot safer than staying home especially since this war
was fuelled by those that show superiority, indifference, and hatred towards
muggles and muggle-borns alike.
I'm doing my part in preparing for this war and hope that you and Ron are
doing the same. Learn as much defensive and offensive magic as you can and
don't forget about potions too. I know that you may want to stay as far away
from that subject, but it's very important and may become very useful in the future.
Take care Harry, and hope for the best.
Hermione.
Hmmm... Well, at least her parents has an idea of what's going on. And about training... No need for that advise. But it was still a relief, even just a little, to know that she was preparing herself also.
Harry opened the other letter and read it.
Hey Harry,
Sent Hermione's letter with Pig if you haven't already opened the other one.
She asked me to send it to you after Pig visited her. He spends a lot of time
with her now a days and he's supposed to be mine!
Anyway... Hope that those muggles are not giving you too much trouble. I
know they're a pain, but I'm sure you can handle them. If the worse should
happen, just remind them that you'll be of age by the end the month, which
means you'll be able to do magic. Can't believe they actually think you'll give
them some of your inheritance!
Sooo... Our seventh year huh? Are you ready? I'm sure that they'll be
really pissed, but we're not leaving you alone. We're all in this together
whether you like it or not, so get used to it! Haven't told them yet. Figured
I'll tell them before it happens or maybe I'll jus t leave a letter. That way I
won't be around when mum and dad explodes.
Got a letter from Hermione. I'm sure she'll tell you the same thing she wrote in
my letter. Preparation and all that stuff. More studying and practicing. This
is supposed to be our summer holiday, but I guess she's right. I mean of course
we have to do these things if we're going to do what we're going to do. Anyone
with half the brains would know to prepare for these situations.
Anyway take care of yourself and remember that you're not supposed to do
anything without us. Remember, you have to attend the wedding! Hermione says
she'll be here also.
Oh and just as a side note... Even if those muggles don't do anything bad this
summer, pay them back just for fun and tell me all about it. Look at it as payment
for all those years in hell. Don't tell Hermione I told you to.
Ron.
Harry smiled and folded the letters. It was nice that he was still able to have something as normal as this and this gave him comfort. He was impressed by their letter that it says a lot, but didn't reveal their plans.
Setting aside the letters, he picked up a parchment and quill and began to write.
Hermione,
Don't worry about me. The muggles aren't that bad, they're really getting on
my nerves though. It's good that you're spending lots of time with your parents
and I'm sorry you had an argument about it.About preparation, I'm already ahead of you. Been doing that since day one.
Take care and I'll see you at the Burrow.
Harry.
Ron,
Don't worry Ron, I wouldn't give a knut to them even if they saved my life. Not
that they would know what to do with it. Anyway, we really need to prepare.
When I get there, I'll be able to use magic. We'll go take the Apparition Test then.
And as for the muggles. Let's just say I got it all covered!
Cheers!
Harry.
He rolled the parchments and tied Ron's letter to Pig and Hermione's to Hedwig. With a hoot, the owls left through the window and disappeared in the rising sun.
"Breakfast!" screeched his aunt from the kitchen.
Another day, another headache.
He set aside his books, promising to get back to it as soon as he can and descended the stairs.
For the next few weeks, he got used to his routine and got up even earlier. His running improved very much. Now he's twice as fast and he can run much longer without tiring. His legs became stronger and he no longer feels the strain from running.
The same goes for weight lifting. He now uses heavier weights than before and last longer. His upper body as well as his lower body has become more defined and now feels embarrassed by the looks he gets during his morning routine running to the park. His muscles weren't too big and he didn't want that. He now looked very athletic and can be compared to those runners and swimmers of the Olympics.
Satisfied with his physical training, he attacked his spell books more fervently, determined to absorb as much as he can and be able to try the spells once he's legally of age.
Reading through a tome describing all the different types of magic available to wizards, he couldn't wait to try some of them out. Wordless magic, which was taught in their previous semester didn't turn out so well for Harry and he was determined to master before leaving the Burrow. He was also determined to be able to perform Occlumency, especially after his last encounter with Snape. He had tried every night before going to bed and whenever he had spare time to close his mind and sort out his memories. He tried to practice closing off his emotions as this was his biggest obstacle in learning this branch of magic. It was the most difficult because whenever tried it, he was always reminded of Snape and his reason for learning this magic. If he can't even duel Snape, how can he stand toe to toe with Voldemort?... After about two weeks of Occlumency, he started to see some improvements. It's true that he really doesn't know if he could actually do it when face to face with someone capable of Legilimency, but at least he was able to control his emotions and concentrate more.
The other branch of magic he was determined to learn was wandless magic. Wandless, to be able to perform magic without a wand, but requires hand gestures from the caster. This can be performed with and without the incantation by combining it with wordless magic, which is an even more difficult task and very draining.
Last but not least, was thought magic. To be able to perform magic with just the thought of it, without saying or thinking of the incantation, and just bending magic to the caster's will. This branch of magic is the rarest kind and no wizard has been able to perform this in centuries. The last known wizard with this capability was Merlin, and since then, wizards and witches have only achieved the levels of wandless magic. If no one's ever reached this level since then, then what chance do I have? He decided not to read more into it and just concentrate on the others.
Days passed which turned to weeks, and he continued his training. His aunt, uncle, and cousin were still the same as when he got there. They still treated him as nice as they possibly can, fed him enough, and went as far as actually buying him clothes that fit. Even with these actions, it did not change what's happened in the past, and besides, it's not like they mean it. There were times after meals when they thought he wasn't listening that he overheard them acting normal.
"This had better work. That little freak had better give us what he owes us. If he doesn't, I'll give him a piece of my mind!" said his uncle, his voice laced with disdain.
"Vernon! Be careful! He's just upstairs and he might over hear you. Besides, he'll be able to use you know what by the end of the month," warned his wife.
Can't wait till then! Harry grinned just thinking about his plans when that day comes.
Climbing the stairs, he picked up the Daily Prophet to read about the latest attack by Death Eaters. This was the third time this month and still, no one was caught. This time, the victims were a newly wedded wizard and his muggle wife living in Liverpool. They were tortured and killed all because the pure blooded wizard had associated himself with muggles and refused to serve Voldemort. Just another reason to make him pay... As for the muggles, the papers claim that the couple were attacked by a gang of criminals and that it was random. They were at least right about one thing. An eye witness, a young witch, had hidden herself to escape the attack and was able to identify one of the Death Eaters as the escaped convict Bellatrix Lestrange.
Harry placed the Prophet back on the table and picked up a book detailing the lives of the founders of Hogwarts. This was another task he had for himself. To learn as much about the founders and find out whether there were any significant items that they valued the most.
Godric Gryffindor was known to posses a powerful sword capable of cutting through the toughest hide and enhancing the magical potential of the wizard. He knew about the sword already, but not its magical properties. The sword was passed down, father to son and when the last Gryffindor had died, it was given to the school he had helped build. Today it sits in the headmistress's office at Hogwarts. Harry immediately ruled this out as a possible horcrux since it had been under Dumbledore's protection.
Helga Hufflepuff owned a cup, a goblet that if and when a person capable of magic drinks from it, they are cured of any ailments they may have. This, he was sure had been made into a horcrux.
Rowena Ravenclaw was rumored to have possessed a book where she had written all the knowledge she had accumulated throughout her life. It was said that she would reveal to the wizarding world cures of many ailments and many other advanced charms that she had invented herself. She never got the chance to do this because at the age of forty five, she was killed by a tragic accident caused by one of her student. Apparently a student had gotten hold of the book and cast an advanced and very dangerous spell. Rowena Ravenclaw had stopped it and saved the student's life but was fatally injured in the process. Not even her extensive knowledge could have saved her. Three days after the incident, she passed away. After her death the book had disappeared. Some say that it was passed on to her only child and others that she had hidden it before her death.
Salazar Slytherin was said to wear a ring that was passed down to the successor. This ring also possesses magical properties. It was capable of protecting it's wearer from fatal curses and potions. Reading this part, it was a little hard to believe. Dumbledore was wearing that ring that night. He was sure of this. If this is true, then he should've been protected, both from the potion and the killing curse.
The book also mentions other magical and non-magical objects that were of great importance to the founders. However, these four were the best know and most prized possession. If the ones belonging to Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, and Slytherin were used as horcruxes, then he knew what items the seven pieces of Tom Riddle's souls were placed in.
Diary, ring, necklace, cup, book, snake, and Voldemort. Two down... five to go.
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Happy Birthday to me!
Finally! The thirty-first of July is here. Now a legal adult in the wizarding world, Harry is now able to use magic outside of school and couldn't wait to try it out in the world. Who better than the one's closest to him?
Harry had packed the previous night and wanted to leave the very second the clock struck twelve, but decided against it because his first stop was the Burrow and he was sure that the Weasleys were asleep at the time. So he had waited until hours before the sun rose before leaving.
At five in the morning, he was already dressed. Looking around the room and under the floor boards under the bed, he made sure that he hasn't forgotten anything. Satisfied, he levitated his trunk down the stairs and got to work.
First off, the house... Using all the magic he's ever learned he transfigured the furniture into old, filthy, and broken down ones. He changed the walls so that the paint was bright orange and was pealing to reveal purple paint underneath. The floors... For that he didn't need magic. All he had to do was walk around outside and since it had rained the previous night... well... you can image. Walking back inside the house he continued his little project. Walking up the stairs, he did the same to all the bedrooms and as quietly as he can. He didn't want them to wake up just yet...
Next were the Dursleys... For Dudley, Harry felt that the tail Hagrid gave him years ago suited him so well and felt the need to return them to him. His uncle, well... they were almost the same size, Dudley being slightly wider, so he gave him the same courtesy he gave Dudley. As for his aunt, he decided to settle with enlarging her front teeth, the very same thing that happened to Hermione in their fourth year.
Creeping as quietly as he can towards his aunt, he pointed his wand at her front teeth and whispered, "Densaugeo." His aunt's front teeth started to grow at an alarming rate and stopped only when it was a foot long. He tried to stifle his snickering as he crept back to the door and went down the stairs.
"Locomotor trunk." Harry carried Hedwig's empty cage and walked through the front door followed by his trunk. He set it down, sat on his trunk, and waited for the show to begin. Inside his aunt and uncles room and also in Dudley's room he had placed a timer that should go off in about two minutes.
"AHHHHHH!"
Suddenly a loud piercing scream could be heard coming from the house. More screeching followed with loud crashing noise.
"Potter! Where are you, you little freak!" That has to be uncle Vernon.
Sitting on his trunk, tapping his wand on his knees, and waiting patiently, he expected his aunt and uncle to come out of the house any minute...
He wasn't disappointed when that happened. His uncle's face had turned red and he could have sworn that he had seen steam actually coming out of his ears.
"YOU! You little freak! You change everything back this instance! The house! Petunia! Dudley! You fix everything NOW!" roared his uncle.
"No." Harry calmly told his uncle and continued grinning at him.
At this time, aunt Petunia came out the front doors, her hands trying but failing to cover her front teeth, and started shrieking and pointing at Vernon's backside.
"What! What is it? What's he done to me?" Vernon Dursley was trying to look at his backside, turning this way and that and looking very much like a dog chasing its own tail. At this time, Harry had fallen off his trunk and was roaring with laughter on the ground.
"Behind you. There's... there's... he's" stuttered Petunia and continued to point. The scene was just too hysterical. Uncle Vernon was still turning in full circles in the middle of the front yard in his pajamas with his wife pointing and screeching. His tail, which is about six inches long, was swishing back and forth.
In the distance he heard a dog howl. Then he realized that now would probably be a good time to leave before the entire neighborhood wakes up. Harry stuck out his wand and the violently purple, triple-decker bus appeared with a loud bang in front of him.
Behind him, his uncle had fallen over when the bus appeared and was paralyzed by fear at seeing something that should be impossible. Harry just grinned at them and waved as he walked towards the doors. It opened to reveal a man that was in his late eighties. He was expecting Stan Shunpike, but remembered that the ministry was still holding him.
He waved at his aunt and uncle and said, "Have a nice life!" and looked down the streets, at the neighborhood that he grew up in and saw that some of the lights through the windows were turning on because of the commotion outside. He had a feeling that this will be the last time he will see the Dursleys and had a mixed feeling of excitement and foreboding.
Turning around he stepped into the bus and stared at his aunt and uncle one last time. But this time he wasn't grinning. He was looking at them with sympathy and regret in his eyes. He wished he could at least have seen Dudley one last time. He told himself that he wouldn't miss this place after everything that's happened here. But now that he was leaving it, he couldn't help but feel that way.
Letting out a sigh he tried not to think about it because now, he's heading to the Burrow to be with the people who actually care about him. His family.
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A/N: Hey people! Hope you enjoyed chapter 2. I'll start the next chapter reeeeaal soon. And another issue I'd like to talk about... Reviews... Little or no reviews people? How am I supposed to know if people are actually reading what I'm writing? How am I supposed to know if this writing is any good or if this story is any good? I need feed back people... If no one's reading and reviewing, it'll make me think that nobody likes it and that I should stop. Soooo... Please leave a review. I'd really appreciate it.
Some of you who have read joe's story Hero Trilogy may recognize the set up at the beginning. I got that idea from him. I thought it was an excellent idea adding a quote at the beginning, so I used it. Oh... and read his story, it's one of the best I've ever read.
Ness a.k.a. aya