Disclaimer: Harry Potter and its associated trademarks are the property of J.K Rowling. The plot and original characters in this fiction are my own. This fictional work is written for recreational purposes only. No copyright is intended.
Harry's hands were shaking. The official Hogwarts letter in his right hand was starting to dampen from the sweat in his hands. He knew that the results would determine his future. With a shaky breath, he opened the letter and read it:
To Mr. Harry James Potter,
Enclosed are your following Ordinary Wizarding Levels. Please read them carefully, and plan your sixth and seventh year subjects accordingly. Also enclosed in this letter is a subject selection sheet. If your OWL qualification matches or exceeds the requirement for the subject, you may take that class.
Your OWLS are shown in this format: First, the written exam score (out of 100), second the practical exam score (if applicable, also out of 100). Finally, you are given the overall grade and the OWLs received.
(T)errible: 0-20
(D)readful: 21-35
(P)oor: 36-49
(A)cceptable: 50-70
(E)xceeds (E)xpectations: 71-84
(O)utstanding: 85-100
(S)ensational: Awarded when student performs at a level far beyond his or her peers
Terrible, Dreadful, Poor: 0 OWLs
Acceptable: 0.5 OWLs (rounded up on OWL totals)
Exceeds Expectations: 1 OWL
Outstanding: 2 OWLs
Sensational: 3 OWLs
History of Magic
Exam: 51
Grade: Acceptable (0.5 OWLs)
Astronomy
Exam: 73
Practical: 64 (note 1)
Grade: Acceptable (0.5 OWLs)
Divination
Exam: 61
Practical: 98
Grade: Exceeds Expectations (1 OWL)
Herbology
Exam: 81
Practical: 87
Grade: Exceeds Expectations (1 OWL)
Care of Magical Creatures
Exam: 84
Practical: 89
Grade: Outstanding (2 OWLs)
Charms
Exam: 90
Practical: 92
Grade: Outstanding (2 OWLs)
Transfiguration
Exam: 88
Practical: 86
Grade: Outstanding (2 OWLs)
Potions
Exam: 87
Practical: 95
Grade: Outstanding (2 OWLs)
Defence against the Dark Arts
Theory: 155 (note 2)
Practical: 186 (note 3)
Grade: Sensational (3 OWLs)
Total OWLs: out of a possible 18 OWLs, you achieved 14
Note 1: Due to the unfortunate disturbance during this practical, all scores were boosted
Note 2: Student displayed an incredible knowledge of Defence against the Dark Arts, which easily surpasses knowledge expected from graduate seventh years
Note 3: Extra credit given due to perfect execution of magic, including a corporeal Patronus Charm.
Congratulations Mr Potter, your OWL score was second highest in the year. We are also proud to award you the first Sensational grade in more than 50 years. In the history of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, very few people have ever achieved this grade. In the last two centuries, the only other Sensational grades awarded were to Albus Dumbledore (for Transfiguration and Charms) and Tom Riddle (for Potions and Ancient Runes). You will be receiving a special award and trophy upon your return to school. Please submit your subject selections no later than July the 20th.
Yours sincerely,
Griselda Marchbanks
Head of the Examination Office
Harry could hardly believe his eyes. How the heck did he get so many OWLs? He even beat Percy, who was supposed to be the smartest of the Weasleys! An Outstanding in Potions? And second in the year! How many Gods did he please for him to pull off a result like this? For an eternity Harry was frozen in his spot, afraid that if he moved his OWL scores would vanish. Then, when he realised this wasn't a trick, he acted.
"OOHHHH YEAH!" shouted Harry, pumping his fist in the air. He danced around his tiny bedroom, chanting victory songs as the top of his voice.
Meanwhile, downstairs, Mana was lounging around, watching a muggle eat something and vomit it out again on her beloved TV show, Jackass. Although she didn't understand much, she found it quite amusing when the people in the show got hurt or humiliated. She was laughing at the current gag when a crazed Harry Potter came dancing down the stairs with his letter in his hand. He waltzed over to Mana's side and, to her annoyance, whisked her off her feet and began to dance.
"Look, Mana, look! My scores! I passed with flying colours!" Harry sang hysterically as he tangoed with Mana around the room. Mana pouted angrily. How dare Harry pull her away from her fun!
"Harry!" shrieked Mana, looking very annoyed. Harry stopped to see the frustrated owl-turned-girl glaring at him with a stare that would have put a basilisk to shame. He stopped his tirade and apologised.
"Err…sorry, Mana." He started to inch away, but there was no way Mana was going to let him off the hook.
"Harry!" screeched Mana again, "Jackass!" Mana stamped her foot angrily. Harry looked taken aback. Maybe Blaise had trained her too well…
Like a woman scorned, Mana dished out some appropriate punishment for the green eyed boy. She cuffed him with her wing.
Well, she would have, if she were still an owl. However, Mana was now human, with a human's strength and mass. So what intended to be a frustrated wing cuffing turned out to be one hell of a clothesline which knocked Harry to the ground, sprawling. Mana looked down on him, triumphant. Harry looked dazed for a moment, before he picked himself up. Although he was a bit hurt, he could understand Mana's feelings. After all, he was pretty pissed off when he was banned from Quidditch last year.
"I'm sorry, Mana. I won't disturb you again like that." Mana blinked her golden eyes in confusion, then shrugged and sat back down on the coach, immersed into the demented world of Jackass again. Harry couldn't help but chuckle silently as he went back to his tiny room to read the rest of his letters. Randomly choosing a letter, he happened to pick up the one by Ron first. It read:
Dear Harry,
How are you, mate? Mum was in a right state on platform Nine and Three Quarters, when Lupin read out your letter. Seriously, I didn't know you felt like that. And I'm also sorry about Sirius. Yeah, I know you don't want our pity, but I want to say that it's not your fault. Even though he was your godfather, I looked up at Sirius as a kind of uncle, someone who'd watch our backs. I was sad when he died, too.
Well, I don't want to depress you anymore, so I'll move on. I got my OWL scores today! I got A for Divination and Astronomy, I got EE for Herbology, History of Magic, Potions, Transfiguration and Charms and I got O for Defence against the Dark Arts and Care of Magical Creatures. 10 OWLs! And something else: I got a special award for Care of Magical Creatures! Since I was one of the last to be tested, I was asked to put away some of the creatures by Professor Tiberius Ogden. I got saddled up with those freaking Blast Ended Skrewts! They started to fight (there were four), and if they killed each other I would've probably been in a lot of trouble. So what I did was, in pure desperation, I cut up four pieces of raw beef into equal pieces and threw that at the skrewts at the same time. They stopped fighting, ate their share, and acted like puppies the rest of the way! Ogden was sure as hell pleased. He said that I had discovered the method to domesticating Blast Ended Skrewts! (Like anyone would want to). See, Skrewts are very jealous creatures, which is why they like to attack and kill each other with their excess energy. But because I gave them all a piece of meat, of the same size and quality and at the same time, it stopped their jealously and calmed them down. They're like heavily armoured guard dogs now! Ogden said he would report his findings to the Magical Creatures department in the Ministry and that I would get credit for it! I'm going to get an award at school and a patent in my name! Dad was so proud and Mum looked like she was going to cry. I wonder what you got, mate? I know you probably kicked butt in DADA, but tell me your results when you're ready to, since I know you need the time off.
By the way, Dumbledore said that you can come and stay with the rest of us at you-know-where (he must mean 12 Grimmauld Place, Harry thought) 2 weeks before term starts. We'll pick you up on the 17th of August, whether those muggles like it or not.
Your best friend,
Ron
Harry grinned at the letter. He had initially thought that Ron might have gotten poor results in the OWLs as he wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed. But he got respectable results, and for once, something to be proud of. For a long time Ron had been overshadowed by his older brothers, but now he too could boast that he was Gryffindor's hotshot new Keeper, he fought off Death Eaters and was a Blast Ended Skrewt extraordinaire. Harry knew now that Ron would no longer be jealous of his fame and achievements, because Ron now had things of his own to boast about.. Harry resigned to tell the others his amazing OWL results when he met them (just for the suspense, he thought). He then picked up the next letter, which was from Remus Lupin.
Dear Prongs Jr,
I am pleased that you are communicating with us again. Good Lord, we were worried when Hedwig didn't turn up for your usual letters, but good thing Hagrid told us that she had found a mate. I know it must be hard, letting her go, but you did it for the best (Harry couldn't help but laugh at this, yes, Hedwig was indeed gone. In her place was a golden eyed girl who loved seeing muggles shame themselves on TV). It must be hard, with Sirius gone as well, but I can only hope that you can still talk to me as the unofficial godfather you wanted me to be.
As Ron would have told you, you are staying at you-know-where on the 17th. Me, Tonks and Moody will be the ones to pick you up, at approximately 9:00 in the morning. I am hoping that there will be a smile on your face when that day comes. We all miss him, Harry, but we will all get through this, I promise. Unfortunately, I will not be able to meet you at you-know-where. I have some 'tasks' to do, but I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Remus
PS: Dumbledore was quite miffed when Hagrid told him that you were at Vauxhall Road, but he also said that he would no longer deny you of freedom, as long as you are responsible enough to look after yourself.
Harry smiled fondly at the letter. Remus, Hagrid, the Weasleys and Hermione were probably the only people who could see him more than as a weapon or the Boy-Who-Lived. He felt an upsurge of affection for them, and prayed to whatever God was listening to keep them safe and well, especially Remus. Harry, to his shock, almost hissed at seeing Dumbledore's name, but composed himself. After all, even though he did betray Harry's trust, Harry used to look up to him as the grandfather he never had. Picking up another letter, he saw it as Hermione and Ginny's.
Dear Harry, (the writing was small and neat, so it must be Hermione, Harry thought)
I hope I find you well. I know that the last weeks of term were chaotic because of, you know, and I know his loss would have hurt you more than what any other person would of felt if they lost a relative. But I want you to know that we'll always be by your side, no matter what. We stood by you at the Department of Ministries, and we'd do it again if we have to. I got my OWLs results – 17 OWLs! I got Outstanding for each subject except for Astronomy, ooh that was so unfair; I got an 'Exceeds Expectations'. If it wasn't for those Aurors picking on Hagrid and McGonagall…never mind. I got top of the year, and I know that you would have gotten good marks as well. What did you get? Please tell us when you get the chance.
Oh, and I suppose Ron has failed to mention a little something in his letter (if you've read it already). You see, when Mrs Weasley told Ron to write a letter to you, he was already writing a letter to someone else. One Eloise Midgen, a year below us and in Hufflepuff. His girlfriend! (Harry's eyebrows shot upwards at this) Yes, they got together at around the same time you and Cho broke up. It seems that she discovered the wonders of Bubotuber pus and cured her acne. Well, poor old Ronniekins was gobsmacked when he saw her, and asked her out. Funnily enough, they have the same interests: they both like chess and support the Chudley Cannons. Ron would have told you, but because of your break-up with Cho, he though he would be insulting you. Oh, and Harry, I know you are smarter than most boys and you are probably now asking, 'But I thought Ron fancied you?' Yes, good question, but it seems that Ron is more protective of us than we thought. He sees me as a sister, and thus is very protective to me, more so than with Ginny because we've been through so much. I see him as the older brother of our trio, mainly because he's the biggest and most protective/stubborn. That's why he was so mad with Viktor; he doesn't want his 'sister' to be taken away. Poor Ron, he's so misunderstood sometimes. Well, I hope you're feeling better, and that if you need anything, just ask.
Love,
Hermione.
PS: Ron's been looking quite smug with his OWL results. What's the deal with that? I did better than him…
Dear Harry, (The writing was slightly larger and loopy, so it must be from Ginny)
You insensitive prat! How could you just tell us to bugger off just like that? I know that Sirius meant a lot to you, but he also meant a lot to us as well! Don't you think Lupin or Tonks would've been hurt as well! And you just good as told them to 'don't talk to me'? How could you! Like Dumbledore said, we're only as strong as we are united. So stop feeling sorry for yourself Harry Potter, and realise that you still have people who care for you no matter what!
Ahh, now I feel much better. Look Harry, I know that things have been so hard for you, but shutting us out won't help. We want to help, in whatever way we can. (Harry grinned guiltily at this; he was only shutting them away so he could train in secret) Well, I guess that's my rant over. Did you hear? Ron's got a girlfriend! Eloise Midgen! Heh, I'm so going to blackmail him. You should hear the things he mumbles at night. Oh, and I can't wait to hear your OWL scores.
Sincerely,
Ginny
PS: Dean says hello. He wants to thank you, he says that the DA was the reason he got Outstanding in his DADA and Charms OWLs.
Harry smiled after reading the double letter. The two females he cared most for in the world still cared for him, even though he led them into a suicide run at the Ministry of Magic. He laughed at the revelation of Ron having a girlfriend; he just hoped that Ron's nightly moans of 'Quidditch' and 'chess' wouldn't change drastically for the sake of his sanity. He was also quite proud of Hermione's results, not that he didn't see it coming. For Ginny, on the other hand, he was glad she had only written to him, and did not meet him face to face, otherwise he would've been in a lot of trouble right now.
Wildcat, she is, thought Harry, I feel sorry for Dean, the poor guy must be whipped
Picking up one of the two remaining letters, he got the one sent by Fred and George.
To Mr Harry James Potter,
We are pleased to inform you, valued investor, that a significant percentage of Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes stocks have been placed under your name. We take this opportunity to inform you that you are now own 25 of WWW, Inc, and that you have been given a place on the board of directors. You are hereby appointed honorary Vice President of WWW, Inc. You will be paid 10 of the profits of WWW, Inc, quarterly. This arrangement has been made by Gringotts already, and is thus unquestionable. We hope that you continuing placing your valuable interest in our company.
Yours truly,
Gred and Forge Weasley, Co-President of Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, Incorporated.
PS: In case our words overwhelmed you, young Harry, you are now one very rich little kid and seeing as you're on the Board, we suppose we can't, in good faith, prank you. Oh well. There's always Ronniekins.
Harry laughed out loud. The Weasley twins, insane as they are, were like the older brothers Harry never had. He gave them the thousand Galleons out of guilt from Cedric's death/good faith; he didn't expect or want them to pay him back. But it seems that the two were adamant in doing so. He grinned to himself, happy at the thought that the twins could realise their dreams. His happy mood was broken, however, when he read the last letter. From Percy.
Dear Harry,
It's me, Percy, and I would like to take this opportunity to explain some things to you. Firstly, however, I must ask for your forgiveness, for my treatment of you last year. I had slandered you, and I accept the fact that you may never forgive me. Still, I ask of it. However, there is a reason why I did this. I did it for the greater good. Not for my idiotic boss, Fudge, but for my true superior. That's right, Albus Dumbledore. I joined the Order of the Phoenix after the Triwizard tournament. I didn't tell mum and dad because I knew they would flip out. They'd probably protest (Mum certainly would) and not allow me to join. Professor Dumbledore told me the risk and sacrifices I'd have to make, but I joined nonetheless. I used my intelligence to get me promoted to my position under Fudge, and from there I passed information to Professor Dumbledore, about the activities of the ministry and most importantly, ex-Death Eaters who were still free.
I know I can get a little pompous sometimes (too true, Harry snorted), but I am still a Weasley and I love my family. It killed me to say those awful things to dad, but I had to keep up my cover as Fudge's fanatical assistant. I had to give you the cold treatment, as well, during your trial of the breach of the Decree of Under Aged Wizardry. Again, I am sorry, but it was for the best. I would rather have my family hate me then to see them dead, or worse, with You-Know-Who's wand pointed at them. I tried to tip you off by sending you a letter last year. It supposedly congratulated Ron for his prefect status and to keep him away from you. But in all honesty, Harry, it was a subtle warning I tried to give you about things that could happen at Hogwarts. I have enclosed a copy of the letter with this message. Read it carefully and you'll understand what I mean.
Right now, I cannot face my family. Professor Dumbledore keeps me updated with information personally in private meetings. Currently, I live in London with my girlfriend Penelope Clearwater. I have one favour to ask you Harry. If I cannot earn your forgiveness, which is understandable, would you give this letter to my family? I am scared of facing them right now, when they think I am a traitor. That way, they might find it in their hearts to understand what I have gone through.
Best of luck to you,
Percy Weasley.
Harry was in shock. He seriously did not see this one coming. Percy, an Order member? It wasn't possible! This was the same Percy who turned on his family! He didn't know what to think, as he drew the copy of the letter from last year and stared at it. Could Percy be telling the truth? With a speculative air, he read the letter, carefully picking it apart. At the end, he finally understood. Percy was indeed telling the truth.
"…I want to give you some advice…Hopefully, you will be able to read this away from prying eyes…" Could this be a subtle hint that Percy was trying to tip Ron off, and not let others know that he was doing so?
"..Dumbledore may not be in charge of Hogwarts much longer…Dumbledore's regime at Hogwarts may soon be over…" Could Percy be trying to tell them that the Ministry was seeking to kick out Dumbledore?
"…Professor Umbridge…as she strives to make changes within Hogwarts that the Ministry so ardently desires (although she should find this easier next week…)" Was Percy trying to warn them that the Ministry would make Umbridge the High Inquisitor soon, at the time?
"…people who count have a very different...view of Potter's behaviour…Potter had come to a disciplinary hearing…did not come out looking good…got off a mere technicality…people I've spoken to remain convinced of his guilt…" Was Percy confirming Harry's fears that the ministry was eagerly trying to find ways to expel Harry, like how Fudge tried to when the DA was discovered?
Harry was somewhat saddened at his original opinion of Percy. True, Percy was pompous and ambitious, but he was wrong to think that he ever betray his own family. He remembered a conversation he had with Ginny, how he would always protect her from being teased by Ron and his brothers. That alone should have at least prompted Harry to give Percy the benefit of the doubt. Shaking his head, he resolved to help Percy as much as he could to reconcile with his family. After giving the letters a read over one last time, he made his replies. To his friends, he wrote that he was ok, that he would give his OWL scores when they meet again, and to not worry about him. To Lupin, he thanked him for his concerns and warned him to be careful on his 'tasks'. To the twins, he thanked them for adding him to his company, and assured them of his full support. Finally, to Percy, he wrote that he would vouch for him, forgive him and will try to explain the situation to the Weasleys.
After seeing Errol, Pig, and the school owl off, Harry turned back to his readings. He had finished revising notes on transmogrification – a dark branch of transfiguration which involves transfiguring parts of the opponent's body to hinder or injure. Although only someone of McGonagall's calibre could do it in a battle with good result, it was nonetheless an interesting read and Harry resolved to give it a shot. He could just imagine transfiguring a Death Eater's hand into a flipper, both disabling him and making him a laughing stock at the same time.
Stop dreaming, Harry, you're not at that level yet. For now, I should read some more since it's only 10. Hey, why don't I read the books I purchased at that shop?
Taking his para-Fidelius charmed bag from his trunk, he tipped it upside down onto his bed, spilling out the contents. He examined his various books, and decided to take a look at Legilimency and Occlumency: Playing with the Mind first. He sighed wistfully at his charmed bag, wishing that he had bought more books. He would have, but he didn't know the shopkeeper would give him the bag.
Hmm, I wish I had a book specialising in transfiguration, I really want to take up transmogrification…
Suddenly, the bag (which was still in his hand), felt heavier than usual, than returned to its original, weightless form. Harry's eyes darted to the bag warily; he had felt the weight just as soon as he thought of a transfiguration book. Tipping his bag to make sure it was ok, he gasped when a book fell out of it.
"What the hell!"
A book, titled Rare Transfiguration Arts was sitting with the pile of books that he bought. But Harry was sure he didn't buy this one! How did it end up there?
Wait, I thought of a transfiguration book, and I got one. Let me see, then…
"Uhh, I want a book that'll help me with girls." Harry said out aloud. He felt the weight in the bag, which promptly disappeared. Reaching into the bag, he pulled out a very fat book titled A Wizard's Guide to Women: How to Bring Out the Wicked in Any Witch.
Harry's eyes widened as he saw this. He got the book he wanted, instantly!
Where the hell was this when I was dating Cho!
Shaking his head, he decided that Fate was finally giving him a break. Though, he still wandered about the bag. Did the shopkeeper know what this bag really was? And if he did, why did he give it to Harry?
What the hell is this bag, really?
Harry felt the bag get heavy once more. Reaching into it with a quizzical look, he pulled out an old tome titled Objects of Requirement.
"Could this be what I think it is?" muttered Harry to himself as he began to read…
…Objects of requirement are things that provide to the needs of the wizard or witch that charmed the object…
…There are two types: Generators and Transporters. Generators are Objects of Requirement that conjure an item into existence via powerful conjuring Charms and Runes inscribed on the item. The most famous, and most rare type of Object of Requirement are the Rooms of Requirement. These rooms are charmed to generate what the user requires, however, despite the powerful magic necessary to create the effect, the items can only exist within the room. Smaller objects are limited to produce certain items only, but often these items are stable and can be used like any other. For example, the Hogwarts founder Rowena Ravenclaw was a renowned archer, known for her keen eye and her Quiver of Requirement, which produced and endless supply of arrows for her use. More common generators, but still very rare in the Wizarding world include Cupboards of Requirement and Wine Cellars of Requirement (see page 182 for information for domestic Objects of Requirement)…
…The second type, and usually more common type of Objects of Requirement are the transporters. These objects are charmed to bring an object from one source to the user, which is why transporters are usually items that can hold something. The charm and rune patterns for this are easier to perform, but still out of the reach for anything less than a powerful wizard. Transporters allow the user access to their required items without the constraint of having to carry it around, or to go back to the source for more. The most common type of transporter are Moneybags of Requirement, which wealthier wizards use to make expensive purchases. Other examples include Suitcases of Requirement (page 210) and Bookbags of Requirement (page 212)…
…Bookbags of Requirement are usually transporters that allow the user unlimited access to their libraries, anywhere in the world. The charms are inscribed on the bag and around the library in question, which constructs the magical transportation link between the two. Very few of the ancient families possess at least one of these valuable tools, and it was rumoured that Merlin's Bookbag of Requirement was linked to his own library, which is considered the be the greatest in the world…
"Wow…so I have a Bookbag of Requirement, now?" Harry couldn't help but think of the possibilities that the bag offered to him. If it could provide him a book on how to deal with females, then it should be able to cater for his training. Speaking of which, Harry had decided to begin his training tomorrow. Firstly, he would need to go to muggle library near the Dursley household to get some books to raise a child (ie Mana). And when Blaise arrived, he would take the Day Bus (the day version of the Knight Bus, Harry heard this from Moody and got assurances that the ride was no less comfortable) to Diagon Alley, where he would purchase a few things. During his first week back at Four Pivett Drive, he decided he would need: a second wand (his wand was useless against Voldemort's as they're brother wands), duelling robes (for that extra protection), books on obscure light and dark arts (Harry had figured that if he was going to stand a chance against Voldemort, he would need to learn this. This means a trip to Knockturn Alley…) and maybe another owl to replace Hedwig, or Mana as she is known now.
It's going to cost me…but since I have about two and a half thousand Galleons left, I'll leave 1000 for my school supplies and to get me settled once I leave Hogwarts. The other one and half thousand should be able to cover what I need to buy, though those duelling robes aren't going to be cheap…
Harry, after giving some thought to his finances, decided to close up his transfiguration book for the night. Unlike Hermione, he didn't get a thrill studying for hours. He was going to begin his training after he had gotten his supplies, which meant that he had nothing to do for the night. Or maybe…
The Literati Potion! I can read Moste Potente Potions to see how it works! And I remember that I still have my animagus potion in the basement. It's only a few days old, it's stayed at room temperature as well. If I add the Kappa blood and maybe some powdered Schizzle root to freshen it up, maybe it could work? Yeah, that's what I'll do for tonight.
Looking at his watch, he saw that it was 11:00 in the evening. He opened Moste Potente Potions, and after taking a look in the index, he found the correct page.
The Literati Potion was developed by Hogwarts Headmaster Edward Stormwater during the period after the Dark Lord Maloris' reign, most commonly known as the Middle Ages. During this time, Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry began a greater intake of muggle-born students. However, Stormwater noticed that muggle children had very little to no literary skill whatsoever. They could not read or write, which was of course, vital in magical education. Only the wealthier muggle-born students had theses skills, and it was usually the boys. Stormwater sympathised with the muggle-borns, seeing as he was a half-blood himself. And so, he developed the Literati Potion. This potion allowed the transfer of one's literary skill to another. It is very easy to make, and without the key ingredient, it should be an orange colour…(it goes on a few pages on how to make the potion)
…The key ingredient is a drop of blood of donor, from which the literary knowledge will be transferred from to the recipient of the potion. They donor should not be more than eight years younger or older than the recipient, or brain damage may occur. One drop of blood is needed, which will turn the potion into a green colour. The potion should be given at least five hours to settle. After this, the recipient need only drink some of the potion for the effect to work instantly, though it may result in some drowsiness. This means that one standard 4 size vial full of potion can probably be given to 10-12 recipients…
Harry took the flask of Literati potion that Hagrid gave him, and gave it a careful look. The liquid inside it was still orange, so the blood must have not been added yet. He set the flask down to one side, and took off the stopper. Harry then pulled out his wand, and muttered,
"Diffindo." Harry uttered the words of the cutting spell with little conviction as he aimed it at his hand. He only wanted a little blood, not to cut off his hand. A faint, blue streak of light emerged from his wand and connected with his hand. The resulting cut was small, but blood oozed from it nonetheless. He positioned his hand over the flask of Literati potion, and allowed a single drop of his blood to fall into the potion. The liquid fizzled for a bit, which indicated to Harry that he should leave the potion to settle. He set it beside his trunk.
Now, for that animagus potion that I screwed up…
Still somewhat confused how he got 'O's in his O.W.L potions yet he made such a simple mistake in his animagus potion, Harry took Moste Potente Potions with him as he journeyed his way down to the basement. He passed the lounge room; Mana was still watching Jackass, but judging by her droopy eye lids and her relaxed form, Harry figured she was going to doze off soon. Harry soon made it back to the basement, back to where Hedwig was lost and Mana was born. His ingredients and equipment was still there; his incorrect potion still looked alright, so Harry got down to work. Opening the unopened pack of Kappa blood, he finally got around to adding the 5 millilitres of the brown Kappa blood. Harry then added some diced Schizzle root to the concoction, turning the liquid in his cauldron from its bluish-white colour to the rightful grey colour, according to Moste Potente Potions. Harry let his potion simmer as he read more of the instructions:
The Animagus Revealing potion puts its user into a dream-like trance (for about a few minutes), during which time the user experiences a vision of his/her animagus form. After waking from the trance, the user will temporarily transform into the animagus form, allowing the user to experience the form without problem, before reverting back into human form. It is at this point that the user can decide whether to pursue animagus training.
As soon as Harry had finished reading, he took out a goblet and scooped some of the contents of the cauldron into it. Looking carefully at the liquid inside the goblet, he wanted to make sure that he had the grey liquid. It wouldn't do for the Boy-Who-Lived to morph himself into a bat, or something. Harry was a little nervous about the size of his form; what if the basement wasn't big enough? Then again, not many creatures were bigger than the Four Pivett Drive basement, and he wouldn't want to get caught transforming into his animal by his neighbours if he took the potion outside. Shrugging, Harry made his way to the middle of the basement, cleared out some of the books stashed in that position and sat down. Taking one, careful look at his potion, he uttered a quick prayer before drank down the contents of the goblet. The potion was actually bland; in a wild moment Harry feared that he messed up again, but then he suddenly felt drowsy. The dim light of the basement seemed to fluctuate in Harry's view. His world began to swirl, before it was swallowed up by darkness…
Harry was aware that he was still conscious, yet asleep. It was if he had slipped into a dream where he was in control. A black void surrounded him, and for what seemed like hours, Harry felt he had slipped into oblivion. Harry began to panic: what if he didn't have a form? What if he couldn't wake up! His fears were alleviated, however, when a swirling white mass appeared right in front of him. Harry grew excited; his form was finally going to appear! However, his curiosity skyrocketed when the white mass…split into two! What kind of weirdo creature has twin bodies! Harry's non-existent eyes darted left and right, seeing which mass would take form first. The left form caught Harry's attention; it began to colour itself in. The coloured mass began to shift; slowly assuming a form. At first, Harry couldn't recognise it, but after a few seconds he definitely saw a pair of wings. Thus, he assumed he was some kind of bird. A very colourful bird, judging by the mass of colours appearing. Harry figured he was some kind of tropical bird, like a toucan or parrot. A large, elegant looking one at that. He couldn't complain; at least he had a normal looking form. Harry's eyes darted to the form on the right, but as he did so, the black void surrounding him burst into white; Harry managed to get a glimpse of the form of the mass on the right. It looked…almost human. That's all he saw, until he awoke from the trance…
Harry woke with a startle. He looked at his surroundings; he was still in the basement. Only this time, he noticed the tiny crack on the other side of the floor, the deep brown hue of the walls, the tiny dust particles on a box in front of him…if he didn't know better, his vision had just improved dramatically. This confirmed Harry's suspicion that he was a bird of some sort. He flapped his wings, and to his surprise, he took off from the ground with little effort. He felt as light as a feather and with the gentle beat of wings, he hovered in the basement. Harry cocked his long, elegant neck to inspect his wings. Harry was shocked. His feathers were of a beautiful, rainbow coloured plumage that seemed to sparkle in the faint glow of the basement light. His beak was a shiny golden colour. And he was pretty sure that he had head tails and tail feathers. Harry felt on top of the world. He laughed with joy, or to be more precise, tried to laugh. But what emerged from his beak was not a laugh, not even a squawk or chirp. It was, instead, the most beautiful sound he had ever heard in his life. It was phoenix song. Only this time, it sounded so divine it couldn't possible be real. Harry cocked his head towards mirror in the basement and felt his beak drop. Staring right back at him was a phoenix.
A rainbow coloured phoenix, with startling green eyes.
Harry was ready to cry with joy, in fact, he did, and some rainbow coloured tears emerged from his eyes and landed on the basement floor. He was a rainbow phoenix! He was about to fly out of the basement when he felt a tingling sensation; his wings seemed heavy, his eyes losing their focus, blackness overwhelming his vision…
When Harry's eyes re-focused, he was shocked with the sight that greeted him. His vision just as acute as his phoenix form, yet for some reason, he felt he had some hidden sixth sense. For some strange reason, Harry knew that there were a family of four in the house next door, and that they felt happy. And for some reason, Harry felt hungry…very hungry…
It was at this point that Harry realised he was floating in the air. He also realised that his immediate environment was cold, even though he wasn't cold himself. Harry extended one of his arms, and with a shock, realised that his 'form' was wearing pitch black robes, streaked with red. Harry almost screamed when he saw his hand.
His hand was a cold, bluish-grey hue, almost skeletal in appearance. With a feeling of dread, he looked at the mirror once more. What he saw turned his blood into ice.
A dementor stared right back at him. A dementor with eerie, green eyes.
Harry could only tremble as he saw his form. How on earth did he become one of the most dreadful creatures ever to walk the earth! Despite his terror, Harry felt that he had some sort of wings. He turned his head to his side, and with a sickening realisation, saw that he had several yellowy-white bones protruding from his back, Had he had not been so disgusted by the look, he would've realised that the bones resembled wings, minus the flesh. His 'sixth' sense informed him of a female, young, near him, that was feeling terror beyond her wildest nightmares…
Harry once again experience the tingling sensation, and then blacking out. When he came to, he realised he was human again. Realising what had just happened, he fell to his knees…
What...what on earth! I thought I was a rainbow phoenix, but instead, I'm a dementor. What's wrong with me! What I am like that! Is this some kind of cruel turn of fate? That my greatest fear is also my animagus form! I felt despair…such despair, yet I enjoyed it. Why? Why am I like that…
Harry could not stop himself from weeping. He sobbed of his misfortune of being the thing he feared the most. That his animagus form, that he so wanted to achieve (just like his father and Sirius), was nothing but a mockery of Harry's worst fears. A being that could not feel happiness. Harry wept quietly in the basement, when a bright flash caught the corner of his eye. Drying his tears, Harry looked at the source of the flash and gasped.
A rainbow phoenix was staring at him. Although, the look in its eye was one of curiosity, and disappointment. Relieving himself of his sadness, Harry approached the beautiful creature, to see what it was doing in his basement. It let out a quick, slightly sad song, which for some reason, Harry understood…
Who are you?
I…My name is Harry Potter… Harry spoke to the phoenix, which seemed to understand…
But…I thought…that there was another…
Another of what?
Another of my kind. Another Rainbow Phoenix…
Oh…well, that is my animagus form
You are a rainbow phoenix animagus? The phoenix looked very intrigued
I guess…who are you?
My name is Ho-oh. To this day, the only Rainbow phoenix in existence.
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get your hopes up. Harry looked apologetic
Don't worry about it. Although I am still alone, it seems that I have a brother amongst the humans
Well, thanks I guess. But I'm not sure if I am a rainbow phoenix…
How do you doubt? I certainly felt your presence, which says you are a rainbow phoenix, even if you are an animagus
You know about animagus, then?
I know all about human knowledge.
Well, ok, that'll save me on explanations. Well, at first I was a phoenix, but then I transformed into a weird looking dementor.
Oh? How so?
Well, my robes were streaked with red, and I had skeletal wings
Interesting…very interesting…
Why's that?
I know all about you, Harry. My mind connected with yours when I appeared in front of you. I know all about you, but I did not mean to intrude. It just happened.
Err, don't worry about it.
Yes. Well, it seems you are a Condemned Dementor
What on earth is that?
All Dementors are eventually freed from their curse. They are originally humans who have lived terrible, unhappy lives and die full of despair. In that case, their souls rise from the dead to rob the happiness they were denied in life from the living. Eventually, they move on to the after life. Condemned Dementors are created from souls so twisted, so full of despair, that they spend the rest of eternity spreading their despair. They usually come from the souls of powerful Dark Lords. Amongst dementors, they are lords of their kind. They are extremely powerful, they can drive a person to insanity with little effort, they can kill with a touch and they can suck the souls of many people at a time.
If that's the case, then how come they aren't wreaking havoc around the world? Wouldn't dementors be flocking to them now, instead of rotting in Azkaban?
A good point, but remember that condemned dementors can still be killed. It would take several, exceptionally powerful light wizards to destroy one. There are none left in the world. The last one was killed about two hundred and fifty years ago.
That's good. Regular dementors are bad enough
I agree. On a different note, would you like to know about your traits?
Traits?
When humans have magical animagus forms, their human form inherits traits from their animal forms. Even non magical animagus forms can yield traits. From sensing your memories, I have surmised that your godfather Sirius, a dog animagus, would've had a better sense of smell, and affinity for creatures of the canine family. His laugh, if I recall, sounded like a bark. That's what I mean by traits. However, you are a polymagus, an animagus with multiple forms, and thus you have quite a few traits, from two exceptionally rare creatures.
Such as?
Well, who better to tell you about rainbow phoenix traits than myself? Although there has been no previous rainbow phoenix animagus, what I'm about to tell you should be accurate. Firstly, any ailments you have will be corrected. Be it a disease, injury, or birth defect, it will be healed. Next, you should have incredible self-healing ability. You can regenerate damaged tissue almost instantaneously. You'll have enhanced vision that is still useful in places of little light, your human tears can rejuvenate stamina, and in time, you will teach yourself how to project an aura of hope around you. Oh, since I consider myself a creature of absolute light, I am pretty sure that dementors can no longer harm you. Nor will they be able to kiss you. Should be useful, yes?
Wow, Ho-oh that sounds awesome! But…what can a condemned dementor do for me?
Plenty. Firstly, you will learn how to project an aura of despair around you. In time, you will also develop how to sense emotions. You do realise that dementors are legilimens? That means you will master occlumency and legilimency, to an extent that no human could possibly reach. If you happen to learn ice magic, you will become extra proficient in it, since dementors happen to be good in that field. Finally, and most importantly, dementors will obey your will without fail. Even the most powerful dark lord is second to a condemned dementor in the eyes of a normal dementor.
I guess being a condemned dementor has its perks…
Yes, but these traits will only be apparent if you master the animagus form. Don't think that because you've experienced the form, means you'll have the traits.
I understand. Tell me, what are rainbow phoenixes like? Ho-oh drew himself up proudly
Well, since you are rainbow phoenix number two, it would be an honour for me to tell you of my secrets. Firstly, I think I'm immortal. I've been alive ever since the earth came to existence, I've been hit with every curse and muggle weapon you can think of and I'm still feeling youthful and strong. My tears not only heal injuries, but also restore strength. A wizard with a vial of my tears could take out an army without tiring. I can teleport myself as well as fly, I am also a legilimens and an empath, meaning I can sense emotions. My burning days happen to occur once every 50 years or so, and believe me, it's painful. I see myself as a creature of divine light, so dark creatures often feel uneasy or weak in my presence. Oh, and I consider my song to be amazing, and my looks divine.
Harry laughed Have you ever had a master?
Yes, I've have had one master. The wizard Merlin. However, I have appeared and assisted humans from time to time.
Wow, so you knew the greatest wizard of all.
Yes. He was a pretty good person, apart from the fact that sometime he could not resist the lure of young women…
You mean…
Yes, he's a bit of pervert.
At the Isle of Avalon, somebody sneezed.
Harry and Ho-Oh talked for the rest of the night, going into the early hours of the morning. They discussed things like Merlin's life, obscure magical arts, and basically how Harry could improve his magical powers. Harry learned quite a bit from the multi-coloured phoenix, and was about to ask about his true powers when Ho-oh decided to go home.
It is getting late, Harry. I must return to my roost, and you must sleep.
Yes, I guess you're right. Thanks for everything, Ho-oh.
It was my pleasure, Harry. I like you. Even if you weren't a rainbow phoenix animagus, I still would've helped you out. Here, I want to give you something, as a token of our friendship.
Ho-oh shook his magnificent body, and five of his rainbow coloured tail feathers fell to the floor. Ho-oh picked them up with his beak, and dropped them into Harry's hands.
These are my tail feathers. Since I think I'm pretty powerful, they should themselves be powerful substances. I daresay they'll come in handy for you, considering your plans.
Oh?
You say you wanted a second wand, did you not? Why not have a wand that has my tail feather as its core?
Really? Oh, man, that'd be awesome! Ho-oh trilled a joyful song.
I am glad. Listen, I must be off. Please take care of yourself, Harry. If you ever need me, just call me. When you have mastered your rainbow phoenix form, you will know how to.
I will. You take care too, Ho-oh, umm, I know you're immortal, but take care nonetheless. Ho-oh drew himself up happily and sang on last song
Farewell, Harry. And with that, Ho-on disappeared in a bright, multi-coloured flash of light.
Harry checked his watch. It was already 2 o'clock in the morning and he himself was getting drowsy. Harry packed up his potions kit and Moste Potente Potions book, carried them to his room, and stashed them into his trunk. He then headed downstairs to the lounge room, in order to get Mana to bed. The said owl-girl was awake, staring at floor, the part where the basement would be under. A look of fear was etched on her face.
It's…it's my fault. My condemned dementor form must have scared her. Harry thought bitterly. He approached the nervous looking girl and put his hands on her slender shoulders.
"Mana? Mana, go to sleep." Mana tilted her head up to look at Harry. Her normally bright yellow eyes were dull.
"Sleep?" she muttered, almost to herself, "Harry…Mana…Mana scared…" She looked at her lap and whimpered softly. Harry tenderly cupped her cheek.
"Mana…don't be scared." he whispered softly, "I'm here." Somehow, Mana seemed to understand because some of the brightness of her eyes began to return. She nodded faintly and stood up.
"Sleep." she said, yawning for effect.
Harry turned off the TV, and led Mana back to his tiny bedroom. He met no resistance. Seeing that the Dursleys were gone, he figured that he would sleep on the couch, for Mana's privacy. So he didn't drape her with the invisibility cloak when he tucked her in. He was about to head off to the lounge room when a hand latched onto his arm. Turning around, he saw that Mana was sat up on the bed, and grabbed onto him. Harry looked confused.
"Mana, I'm going to the lounge." Harry said slowly, pointing to the door, "I'm going to sleep."
"No!" cried Mana vehemently. To Harry's shock, Mana moved over to the edge of Harry's small bed, grabbed his knees, and tried to force them down, in order to get Harry to sit on the bed. Harry was faintly reminded of the time he taught Mana how to sit down.
"Stay." whispered Mana. "Harry…stay…" Harry slowly nodded. He got into bed next to Mana, waiting for Mana to fall to asleep. As she slowly drifted off, some thoughts ran through Harry's head.
So much has happened in these last few days. First, the Dursleys leave me, so I can go about my plan to become stronger without much interference. I get my O.W.L results and I find I do awesome. My friends send me letters; it shows that they still care. I can't wait to meet up with them again. Then I find that I now possess a book bag of requirement, allowing me to get whatever book I need, or whatever books that are in the library it is connected to, anyway. Then I find my animagus forms, a rainbow phoenix and a condemned dementor, as well as meet up with Ho-oh.
I've got a lot of work ahead of me. I only have 20 more days to train, 37 if I can train in secret when the Dursleys return. I return to Grimmauld place halfway during August. Considering my academic and physical abilities, I probably won't have learned enough to last long against Voldemort, so I'll have to train at school in secret. But I can't lose hope. I promised myself that I would make Sirius proud. And I intend to keep that promise.
Mana really shot my plans up, but I guess it can't be helped. She's really nice, when I think about it, although I really have to teach her more. I've seen five year olds talk better than she can. Good thing Blaise is helping me out. What will happen to Mana when I get back to Hogwarts? Can I bring her with me? I have to find a way to allow her to stay with me, the though of her alone with Dursleys just scares the hell out of me. Or hopefully, I can leave her with the Weasleys. But I would much prefer to have her by my side. Even though I haven't known her for long, I'm already getting attached to her. Oh well, whatever happens, I'll take in stride.
And with that note, Harry drifted into the lands of dreams, a determined look on his face.
End chapter.
AN: I apologise for the major delay in this chapter. I had one hell of a writer's block, and I really couldn't think of anything for weeks. Add to that second year university preparation and kenjutsu practice, so I haven't been giving this story much thought. But I guess I'm alright now. In case you were wondering, Mana's character was inspired by two anime characters, Chi and Ren from Chobits and DearS, respectively. For the nest chapter, Harry will learn more secrets (especially about himself, though none of that 'heir of Gryffindor' cliché), replace Hedwig and conduct his training. Once again, thank you for the reviews.
Stay tuned for the next chapter, Awakening.