Warrior Mage – Chapter 4
A Year In Lesea
Hey everyone, I'm back! I know this chapter took like forever, but I couldn't post it until I sorted out what's going on with bold, italics, etc. Finally I did that, so now I can post. Hopefully the next chapter won't take as long, but with my computer playing up, you never know. Well here goes – please read and review when you're done.
Oh yeah, by the way, these are Harry's thoughts and these are Leona's – you'll understand when you read the chapter.
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Harry had reverted to his usual self by the time they arrived at the Muggles', if a bit quieter than usual. He and Leona picked up his things before Tripping to Lesea. This time, Harry paid more attention to the layers of magic that they passed through. They guarded against any human or animagus passing through unless they had knowledge of, and the potential to be, Warriors. These intrigued him, wondering how they had been built, and by whom. All too soon, they had landed in Lesea. Harry led Elementa to the stables while Leona went to speak to her parents about having him stay.
***
Once Harry had settled in, and had assured Leona that he knew his way around well enough to not have to be shadowed by her, Leona went back to speak to Remus and Tonks. Very little time had passed there, and they seemed surprised to see her. She quickly explained that she planned to concentrate on Harry's training while they were there, though she didn't mention the fact that his training would be at a much harder level than that of a normal trainee Warrior. She had left it to Harry to tell them about his status as a Mage, and as he hadn't, as yet, done so, she left that bit out.
***
Harry wandered around the city, not particularly bothered about where he was going. He wondered how Leona's talk with Remus and Tonks was going. She hadn't said that was where she was going, but he knew anyway. All part of the job, he guessed. He faintly recognised that he was being followed, and wondered why. He turned around to see a man of about nineteen or twenty.
"Can I help you?" He asked coolly. He wasn't in the mood to be dealing with the stuck up Warrior trainee that was Bradley Marsh.
"Who are you?"
"Harry Potter. Now, care to explain why you were following me?"
"Following you? Why would I follow you? You look like you've come straight from the human world."
"I have." Harry said. "Do you have a problem with humans?"
"Yeah – they're stupid idiots who like to think they're better than everyone. I mean, look at those Wizard types – thinking that they're all powerful and brilliant." Harry drew his wand and pointed it directly at the other boy's chest.
"Did I mention that I'm a wizard? And your – theory – is all very well and good, but I doubt that you'd be so cocky when facing Voldemort." Bradley winced horribly as Harry uttered the name, and seemed to be figuring something out – three, two, one, Harry thought.
"Harry Potter! You're the Boy Who Lived! You're human."
"Actually, I'm a Warrior." Harry smirked. "But you're right about being the Boy-Who-Lived."
"Impossible. The Boy-Who-Lived is only fourteen!"
"If you're going to spout about how impossible it is, at least get your facts right – I'm fifteen. I'll be sixteen soon."
"I don't care, it's still impossible. And a human!"
"Oh get over it!" Harry snapped, he was beginning to be reminded of Malfoy, and the longer the boy remained there, the more he resembled the stuck up snob of Slytherin.
"You'd do well to learn your place here, human!"
"Yada, yada, yada. Heard it all before." Harry yawned. "You don't seem to realise that while you may be 'Warrior' through and through, you live a sheltered little life. I know Muggles that are more 'Warrior-like' than you!"
"How dare you!"
"Truth hurts, huh?"
"Oh, and I suppose you're just so perfect – been fighting since you were a year old, huh?"
"No. Only since I was eleven." Harry replied without hesitation. "Including meeting Voldemort several times, so do not even think about telling me that I'm any less worthy of being a Warrior than you are!"
"You-Know-Who is dead. You killed him when you were a year-old."
"Christ, you people are gullible. Listen to what you're saying! A one-year-old child defeating a powerful evil wizard? Get a grip! The killing curse rebounded, yes, but he was never dead. Now he's back. And if you want proof, just go into the wizarding world – I'm sure most people are convinced now."
"But..…"
"Oh for the love of Merlin! Believe what you want." Harry walked away, murmuring about 'stubborn, hard-headed Warrior idiots'.
***
Dinner that night was more relaxed than the first time Harry had visited. Serena was talking about how her classes had gone.
"Did you teach someone called Bradley Marsh?" Harry asked.
"Yes." Serena answered. "Never liked him much, but he might be more tolerable outside of class – is he your friend?"
"I wouldn't say he's my friend exactly. More like..…umm..…well..…ok, I can't stand him. Are his views typical?"
"Which views?"
"His views on wizards and non-Warriors."
"As much as I hate to say it, yes, they are quite popular views."
"Well aren't I going to shake things up a bit?" He said quietly, smiling humourlessly as he imagined the reaction of 'his' people to a wizard-Warrior Mage.
***
Leona watched Harry carefully, observing him all the time. He was beginning to change – only slight changes, in other people's views, but ones that spoke volumes to her. He found all types of fighting impossibly simple, but had more difficulty with some of the complicated magic that she was showing him. Even then, he picked it up quickly compared to a normal Warrior. The biggest change, she thought, was his presence. The Warrior Mage was coming through, and though no one else knew, she could tell that everyone felt comfortable around Harry. He was a natural leader, and seemed to be able to give an order both without thinking about it and without it seeming like an order – more like a suggestion. He had changed physically and mentally too. He was more easy-going now, relaxed in what was quickly becoming his home, and he had grown a huge amount, no longer small and skinny. He had also toned up as well, particularly due to the fact that he spent at least four hours per day training. He wasn't a body-builder or anything, but rather more like an athlete. He didn't seem to notice the changes in himself, ever modest and sweet.
***
Harry was beginning to feel at home in Lesea – more so than he had ever done in Privet drive. He guessed that it had a little something to do with the Warrior Mage business. It wasn't a surprise to him that after spending a while in Lesea, the changes began to become more obvious to people – his attitude had changed subtly, and he was aware of feeling a great deal of responsibility to the people he met on a daily basis – even those who disliked him because of the fact he was – or had been – human. The attitudes of these people hadn't changed, and rather had gotten quite out of hand. It hurt Harry to see the Warriors so bigoted. They were supposed to be protectors of the innocent, not protectors of the pure-blooded. No one knew him as the Warrior Mage, except for Leona, and he knew that soon someone would discover him – his guess was Arian Jnr, who seemed to spend a lot of time watching him, and suspected that something was different.
***
Harry was right. About three months into his stay, he walked into his training room to find Arian waiting patiently for him.
"Hello." He said pleasantly. Harry smiled and greeted him.
"To save you the bother of asking, yes, I am." Arian seemed completely stunned, and Harry couldn't help but smirk a little.
"You are?"
"I am."
"How did you know what I was going to ask?"
"Long story. Basically I could sense it – it was kind of obvious."
"Does Leah know?" As soon as he said it, Arian knew it was a stupid question. Harry smiled, but didn't point out just how stupid it was.
"Yeah. She was the first one that found out – you are the second."
"Haven't you told any of your..…well, whoever you're close to in the human world?"
"Er..…I really don't think they'd understand. I'm not sure I understand." Harry's smile had vanished, to be replaced by a small frown.
"How long have you known?"
"Since I went to get the wood for my broom – I guess I'd figured already that I was a little odd even by Warrior standards, but I didn't realise how odd until the tree told me."
"The tree told you?"
"Uh huh. Nothing remotely normal ever happens to me. Comes with the title, I guess."
"Which title?" Arian asked, nonplussed.
"Whichever. I was thinking more of the 'Boy-Who-Lived', but 'Warrior Mage' works too."
"So why haven't you told anyone? I mean, it can't be easy listening to everyone badmouthing you – especially when you're supposed to be their leader."
"No, it isn't. But think about it – everyone here has had at least one doubt about me and my suitability to be a Warrior, let alone a Mage. Then there are the bigots. Do you think they'd be happy that their supposed 'leader' is a fifteen year-old human?"
"Well – no – but they're going to find out eventually."
"I was thinking about that, actually."
"You were?"
"Of course – any way, I was thinking about changing my appearance and name so that no one knew who I was, then let them find out."
"Where would you say you've been? And what family would you come from?"
"I've obviously been travelling, haven't I? Checking out what's going on and where. And I'm your cousin. If that's ok with everyone, that is."
"You've really thought this through – I'm sure everyone will be delighted that you're joining the family, though mum was really hoping that it was through marriage."
"To Lee?"
"I guess – since Gem's nearly engaged and everything."
"Uhh..…right."
"You don't look too enthusiastic."
"Would you be at fifteen?"
"S'pose not. So, what does this Warrior Mage lark entail, then?"
"Well, I'm basically responsible for the city and the Warriors. I can give judgements on crimes, and can introduce new laws – it's best to have the agreement of the majority of citizens, but contrary to popular belief, it's not necessary – oh, and it's my decision whether to ally us with others." Arian gave a low whistle, looking astonished.
"Quite a lot to handle, isn't it? Well, if anyone can do it, you can."
"You think?"
"'Course. You have more determination than is good for you – and you've already had a face-off with mum. After that, I reckon you can face just about anything. Not that it'll be easy, of course, but nothing ever is."
"Thanks." Harry smiled. "Now, the truth?"
"You're in for hell."
"I know. I think I thrive there though."
"I don't doubt it." Arian laughed.
***
From then, Harry began planning his new identity in every minor detail. He never mentioned it to anyone, preferring to keep it under wraps until such time as he was ready to tell everyone. That wasn't at that point. Some time in early October, he was ready. He decided that it was best to run it past Leona first, and then the rest of the family. He was in the middle of transforming a cup into a saddle while he decided this. He impatiently stared at it, running over the theory. Eventually he gave an exaggerated sigh of annoyance and just imagined being able to do it properly.
"Nice." He breathed as the saddle appeared before him.
"You did it! Way to go – you finally caught on to the theory!"
"Er..…much as I hate to burst your bubble, I didn't. I just..…imagined that it was the saddle and it appeared."
"Do you know how much I resent you just now?" Leona pouted jokingly. "It took me six weeks to get that theory."
"Can we talk, please?" Harry said, uncharacteristically unsure. Leona immediately stopped joking around.
"Sure, what's bothering you?"
"I wanted to run an idea by you."
"What kind of idea?"
"I need to let people know that I'm a Mage."
"Er..…I'm not sure..…"
"No, hear me out. Not as me, obviously. I don't want mass uproar on my hands, thank you. No, I was thinking about an alias – a different identity. Older, wiser, more..…pure-blooded."
"You have something in mind?" Harry nodded, blinking slowly. When his eyes opened again they were a light honey colour. His hair was slowly changing length, getting shorter and tidier and lightening a little. His skin, already tanned from being out in the sun more often in Lesea, grew even darker. Nothing about his build changed, though as it was, he looked completely different.
"Well?" He asked, his voice taking on the deep tone that it had done that day that he told Lee that she couldn't tell anyone. Leona stared at him, her eyes travelling from his feet to his face.
"Works for me. What's your new name?"
"Umm…..well, how about Simba? I could take your surname."
"Simba. Hmm. Ok, that sounds ok. C'mon, let's go and introduce you to everyone."
"Sure." Harry followed her as she practically skipped up to the living room, where her mother and father were sitting. Arian was up in his room, and Gemini was on her way home. He guessed that she would arrive in just over five minutes.
***
Harry stood in the living room as Simba, confident and secure in himself. Both Serena and Arian Snr were incredibly curious as to his identity. They were half hoping that this new man was Leona's boyfriend. Simba just stayed still and smiled to himself. Arian Jnr was smiling widely back, knowing that this was still Harry, even if he did look different.
"Hey, I'm home." Gemini said from the hall. "I'm beat."
"Gemini, we have a guest. We were waiting for you to arrive." Leona said quickly.
"A guest? Huh? Who?"
"That would be me." Simba said quietly, his voice carrying around the room with ease. Gemini's eyes took him in shrewdly.
"I'm Simba. A Warrior Mage." The effect of those words was incredible – Gemini gasped, Arian Jnr sniggered, Serena went pale, and Arian Snr sat down abruptly. Leona giggled a little bit, but was silenced by a look from her student.
"How? I mean…..oh my goodness." Serena said, taking a seat beside her husband. Simba smiled at the others.
"Why don't you all take a seat? You might as well get comfortable, we may be here for a while." The obediently sat down, while Simba stood. "Where to start? Well, I guess that first of all, you should all know who I really am." Simba's features began to morph back into Harry's, drawing more gasps of disbelief.
"You? You're a Mage?"
"Yeah."
"So why all this with Simba?"
"You've seen how everyone reacts to me as a Warrior – think of how they'd react to my being a Mage. Not something I would call productive. Besides, I know that I'm not trusted." He held up his hands to the protests that came from that. "No, I have earned your trust. Each of you were…..a little dubious to begin with, but because you gave me a chance to prove myself, you now trust me. Others wouldn't give me that chance. Besides, I quite like having an alter-ego."
"What about Voldemort?"
"What about him?"
"What if he finds out?"
"That's another reason for Simba's existence. A Warrior Mage would be somewhere near the top of Voldemort's sign-up list, but as Harry Potter and a Warrior Mage – well, I think we'd certainly test whether Voldie has a heart."
"He'll want to recruit you?"
"No, not me personally. The Warrior Mage. I may humour him, for a little. If only to show him what he's up against."
"You'd join?"
"Yes. Have you ever heard of spies?"
"Yes, but….."
"Dangerous, no? Well, who better to take it on than a Warrior Mage? I know I'm not quite immortal, but it is a hell of a lot harder to kill me. Besides, it's the easiest way to pass him utter rubbish."
"You never thought to tell me that you were thinking of this?" Leona said pointedly.
"Lee, before you blow up, consider why I didn't tell you? I can protect myself, you know. Ok, I would rather not have to, but I do. The end. Besides, I might not join Voldemort. I don't know, although I can see why it would be advantageous."
"Yes, but what if he finds out that you're the Warrior Mage, or what happens if he has enough and tries to kill you?"
"First of all, I trust you all not to go to Voldemort and tell him that I'm the Mage. No one else will know. If he tries to kill me, he'll get a very nasty shock, won't he?"
"So what are you going to tell everyone else?"
"He's our cousin. Simba Tide." Arian Jnr said with a grin.
"You knew?" Gemini asked.
"Yeah, figured it out a few days ago."
"Of course you can take our name, Harry. Now, little details….."
"My name's Simba Tide, I've been away travelling in the human world for a few years while training. I'm twenty-three years old and have been training since I was sixteen. My parents died when I was three and another Warrior family living in the human world adopted me."
"Nice. You've been thinking this through for a while?"
"Yeah."
"Do you have enough training to claim that you've been training for seven years?"
"Yeah. I know everything from the normal Warrior training programme instinctually. And we've covered the first – five years of Mage training?"
"Something like that. Passed my level ages ago." Leona admitted.
"Very well. When were you thinking about going public?"
"Tomorrow. That gives us time to plan it. I don't think strolling into the middle of the city and announcing it would be the best idea. Then again, who knows?"
"I know! Tell the Ministry of Warriors – they'll be dying to announce it!"
"Rather than telling the Ministry, how about we have them 'discover' me."
"How do you reckon they'd do that?"
"Well, Warrior Mage spells are unique and easily traced if not disguised. That's what I usually do. But if I was to do a spell without disguising it, they'd probably be swarming around the place in several seconds."
"You're probably right."
"Naturally." Harry smirked cheekily, and ducked three cushions that came flying at his head.
***
Simba sat out on the front doorstep, getting ready to cast the spell that would mean that he was recognised as a Mage. He glanced around before shrugging and casting the difficult spell, which created an incredible number of clones for him to battle. He chose a clone of a hooded Deatheater, with the capabilities of a fully trained Warrior. He was so immersed in his battle that he chose to ignore the new presence for a time while he fought. Soon he grew bored of killing imaginary Deatheaters.
"Can I help you?" He asked, not turning to face the intruders.
"Who are you?"
"Simba Tide. Pleased to meet you Miss Hayfield. You too, Mr Groll."
"How do you know our names? And look at us when we're talking to you."
"I know your names because it is my business to know. And I would appreciate if you showed me a little common courtesy."
"Sorry, Mr Tide, but what do you mean 'it's your business to know'?"
"I assume that you're here because of the unusual level of magic that just occurred?" The woman nodded. "Yes, well I'm a Mage. Hence, it is my business to know who you are, and that's the reason that your sensors went through the roof a few minutes ago."
"You're a Mage? But…"
"I know, I'm the first in a long time. Feel free to test me." Simba shrugged.
"This is incredible! We have to tell the Ministry! I'm sorry, what did you say your name was?"
"Simba Tide."
"Well, Mr Tide, would it be possible for you to come down to the Ministry building?"
"Please, call me Simba. I'd better clean up this mess first." Simba cleared the scattered bodies of Deatheaters with a wave of his hand and re-sheathed the sword he had been using. "Ready when you are." He said cheerfully.
***
"He's gone." Leona reported to her parents. They had all been watching the battle between Harry and his creations, and the rest of her family were wearing identically shocked expressions.
"Man, that boy can fight." Gem whistled.
"Tell me about it – you do not want to be on the receiving end of any curse of his – or any of his weapons, come to think of it. Lethal, I'll tell you. Good job he's a dab hand at healing too." Leona grimaced. "Battle is definitely his forte though."
"So it would seem."
"How long d'you think they'll keep him?"
"I'd say a couple of hours at least."
"That long? Geez, he's already proved that he's capable of extraordinary things, what more do they need?"
"Paperwork, sweetie. I'd say he's going to be doing a heck of a lot of reading today."
"Oh – that's ok. He can read at like, the speed of light, or something."
"Incredible. Have you showed him the library?"
"Yeah – and he's read every book."
"Every book?" Serena was somewhat shocked – this boy seemed to constantly surprising her.
"Yeah – laws, family history, general history, folk lore, the history of wizards – I think he made a few amendments to a few of the books too. He seemed quite amused by the fact that he has his own book. Apparently the wizards haven't even gone that far yet – as far as he knows, at least."
"Incredible."
"Yeah – it made me dizzy just watching him read. He makes it unbelievably difficult to remember that he's still a kid – at least, in age, if nothing else."
"I think he may be one of the most unbelievable people I have ever met."
"That's Harry all right."
***
Simba pored over the huge tombs, not realising that to others, his eyes were flicking back and forth so quickly that it was hard to keep track with them. Unwittingly, he was proving his earlier words. He finished the book within moments, moving quickly on to the next.
"Who writes these things?" He muttered.
"The finest scholars our city possesses." Someone replied proudly. Simba didn't even glance up from the book, but his cocked eyebrow was plainly visible.
"Figures. Were these written to specifically confuse the hell out of everyone?"
"It's all fairly simple, Sir….." The other person, obviously a scholar himself, was gearing up to explain, and Simba noted that his tone was becoming increasingly condescending.
"Oh, I know what point the author is making, I'm merely suggesting that it could be put in a less…..befuddling way. What use is a book of laws if no one except scholars can make head nor tails of it?" Apparently the scholar was at a loss for words. "Besides, some of these laws contradict other laws – not to mention that some have so many loopholes that it would be practically impossible to enforce the law."
"And what would you suggest?" The scholar said coolly.
"I'm not criticising you." Simba said, placating the man, who seemed to have taken offence at his comments. "Just pointing out my views on the subject. I'm sure that these are all very well for those of us who are smart enough and have enough discipline to wade through the mass of information. You may find, though, that more people are willing to read such books if they are split up into smaller sections – let's say that all laws to do with property were put into one book, and then all laws to do with training in another, anyway, you get the idea."
"You mean making the information more accessible to the majority?"
"Exactly."
"It's perfect." The scholar breathed. Simba grinned, practically seeing the idea unfurling in the other's mind.
"Are you finished reading already?" Someone else asked.
"Yes. What's next?"
***
Harry was released from the Ministry building later that day, bored and wearied. Most of things he had been subjected to were more sleep inducing than Professor Binns' history lessons at their worst. Needless to say, he was more than pleased to be let out of there, and sprinted back to the house at top speed, covering the mile in four minutes and two seconds.
"How did it go?" Leona asked eagerly as he walked through the door, breathing heavily.
"I've never been so bored in my entire life." Harry pronounced. "You would not believe it."
"Hmm, well I hope you're hungry. Mum cooked a lot of food."
"I'm famished – add to that the fact that I'm a growing boy and you've never got enough food."
"You know, I'm going to force you into that kitchen at one point this year."
"I'm sure you will. Actually I'm surprised it's taken so long – I tell you what, I'll make desert for tonight."
"Ok, thanks for the warning – note to self, keep a little room for Harry's pudding."
"Nice to know I'm appreciated." Harry joked back.
***
Harry woke in the morning to find Leona sitting at the end of his bed, shaking him roughly.
"Geez, woman, what's wrong with you?" He grumbled sleepily.
"The Ministry are here. Want to arrange a press conference and a day for your testing."
"I'll be down in a sec." Harry said, now more alert. "Or rather, Simba will."
"Good. Don't take too long, will you?"
"No Lee, I'll only be a minute or two."
"Good. I'll see you down there."
"Yeah." Harry said, morphing into Simba with a yawn and heading for the bathroom as Leona left for the living room.
***
"Ah, Mr Tide. Nice to see you again. Apologies for waking you." Miss Hayfield said with a smile. Simba waved her apologies aside.
"Please, call me Simba." He said. He sat at the table, motioning for the three Ministry workers to take a seat as Leona sat down too.
"Well, Simba, the Minister wishes to meet you in person."
"When?"
"As soon as possible – he wants to arrange the press-conference and the tests."
"Very well. I assume no one will object to me having some breakfast before we leave?"
"Of course not." The woman smiled brightly at him.
"Does anyone want any breakfast while I'm making it?"
"Make me some, Simba." Leona grinned.
"Obviously. Miss Hayfield? Mr Walters? Mr Bolt?"
"No thank you." Mr Walters said politely.
"If food's going, I'm not one to refuse." Mr Bolt grinned. Simba laughed and nodded.
"Miss Hayfield?"
"Please, it's Eilidh, and if you're sure it's no trouble."
"It isn't." Simba replied, walking through to the kitchen. There were a few minutes of awkward silence until he came back with plates of toast, sausages, potato scones and bacon. He passed them around before sitting down to eat his own.
"Imagine – the first domesticated Warrior Mage." Leona teased him as he ate.
"You cooked this? Scratch the Mage part, I think he's the first domesticated male Warrior." Eilidh giggled. Simba cocked an eyebrow at them both, before turning on Leona.
"You're just jealous because I can cook better than you can." He grinned.
"In your dreams, Sim."
"Oh? Is that a challenge Lee?" Simba grinned, his eyes twinkling happily.
"Maybe." Leona replied with a smirk. Then she sighed exaggeratedly. "Ok, I guess not."
"Spoilsport." Simba muttered.
***
Fifteen minutes later, Simba and the three Ministry employees made their way to the top of the Ministry building. As he ascended, Simba noted several security hitches, and made a mental note to mention these to the Minister. A rather severe looking old woman who reminded him of Professor McGonagall greeted him. "You'll be the lad that reckons he's the new Mage, then?"
"That's me." Simba replied honestly.
"How old are you, lad?"
"Twenty-three, ma'am."
"Good. You have manners. Well, my name is Maisie Kittling."
"My name is Simba Tide. Pleased to meet you, Ms Kittling." The old lady nodded severely and opened the door to an office.
"Simba Tide to see you, Minister."
"Show him in, Ms Kittling." The Minister said. Simba found himself being ushered into a large, airy office, occupied by an aging man with pale hair and a large, boyish smile.
"Mr Tide! I'm so glad you could meet me on such short notice. I do hope nothing important was interrupted."
"Only a little sleep. Nothing that can't be caught up on." Simba smiled. "Pleased to meet you, Mr….."
"Oh! Excuse my manners. Adam Hudson." They shook hands briefly before Simba sat down, looking around.
"I hope you'll forgive me saying so, but I noticed on my way up that a few places weren't very secure?"
"Security here is mostly for peace of mind rather than anything – only Warrior's can reside in Lesea."
"That's not true. Any wizard can enter Lesea with the permission of two Warriors."
"Yes, well the Warriors can be trusted, as, I'm sure can any wizards that they see fit to bring here."
"Trust is one thing, when it is earned, but to trust blindly is insane. Warriors have choices, just like everyone else. Do you know each Warrior in this city well enough to say that not one of them would turn to Voldemort?" The Minister frowned at Simba, but Simba refused to back down.
"Warriors do not ally themselves with the Dark."
"Why not? I have seen much prejudice against humans – why not join Voldemort and cleanse the world of the lowest humans?"
"Are you saying you wish to ally us with the Dark?"
"Not at all. I am merely suggesting that there are those who will ally themselves with Voldemort."
"Nonsense. A Warrior's purpose is to protect innocents, not to kill them."
"I am aware of this, but that doesn't mean much to a lot of people now. They have the same choices as everyone else does. No matter what their purpose, where choice is involved, anything can, and will, happen."
"Very well. We shall consider this." The Minister nodded. Simba inclined his head in thanks.
"For a moment I thought I might have another Minister Fudge on my hands." He said.
"You've met the wizarding Minister already?"
"Yes – not that he'd remember me, of course. One of the most idiotic men I've ever had the misfortune to meet. Too stubborn and power-hungry."
"Ah yes. He was rather a nightmare. Not one of my favourite people. Now that Dumbledore fellow was rather more pleasant – rather odd, but infinitely better than that pompous little man that calls himself a Minister."
"I couldn't agree more." Simba chuckled. "I think I'll enjoy working with you."
"And I you. I must ask for proof of your status, though."
"Of course – what do you suggest?"
"Well, it is well known that Mages are capable of telepathy."
You mean this?
"Indeed. And there is a certain aura around a Mage?"
"I'm afraid I can't do that – my aura is…..somewhat personal."
"Very well. Shape shifting?"
"That I can do – name any object, animal or form that you can think of."
"Ok then – how about a sword?"
"Nice choice." Harry said, morphing into a long, slender and deadly sharp sword, glittering with emeralds.
"Incredible." The Minister breathed. "How about me?" In the blink of an eye, the Minister was eye-to-eye with himself.
"Anything else?" Simba smirked, morphing back into himself.
"No – I think you've proved it sufficiently. Now, about this test….."
"Tomorrow afternoon? Press conference in the morning?"
"Perfect. You'll be available?"
"I suppose." Simba sighed wearily. He hated being in front of crowds.
"Good man – by the way, you look rather young. May I ask how long you've been training?"
"I'm twenty-three. I've been training since I was sixteen."
"Seven years. Incredible. I'm sure you'll cause a big stir in the City, if you don't mind my saying. I daresay you won't be short of female admirers." A slight blush graced the cheeks of the Warrior Mage as he smiled.
"Well, it shall be interesting to see what happens."
"That it will, that it will."
***
"Well? How did it go?" Leona asked him as he walked through the door again. Simba began to fill her in on the day, telling her about the meeting with the Minister and the plans for the following day.
"Tomorrow?!" Leona squealed. "Are you mad? That's too soon!"
"Why?" Harry asked.
"Your robes need to be sorted!"
"Finished already."
"Huh?"
"I've already sorted it."
"What? When?"
"A few days ago – want to see?"
"Obviously."
"Right. Wait here then." Harry said, Tripping to the underground training room. Moments after, he reappeared, wearing an incredibly intricate, embroidered Battle robe.
"Did you do all this yourself?"
"Yeah – what do you think?"
"Incredible – is there anything you can't do?"
"Erm…..probably. I haven't found anything as yet, but I'll let you know when I do."
"Right. Ok. Well, why don't you go and changed and then we can go and train some more?"
"Yes mother."
"Ha! You wish!"
"Oh no. You would end up throttling me and I would be worked to death."
"Not if you were a good little boy and cooked all the time."
"Little boy? Lee, I'm already taller than you by about six or seven inches and I'm not even finished growing yet!"
"Oh all right, show off."
"Come on, we have work to do."
"Yes, oh Great Lord Mage."
"Cut it out before I turn you into a…..toad. Or maybe a ferret – no, wait, that's a Malfoy special."
***
The next morning was tense in the Tide household – in fact, Harry seemed to be the only one unconcerned about the whole affair. He sat and ate his breakfast calmly while chaos reigned around him. "How can you be so calm?" Leona screeched at him. He smiled and shook his head.
"There's no reason for me to be anything other than calm."
"But they're going to put you in front of the entire town and make you pass loads of tests! Difficult tests!"
"Lee, calm down. Honestly, I can do it."
"I know, but still….."
"Leona! Get a grip!"
"Sorry."
"Oh never mind. I'm going to get ready."
"Right." Leona nodded as Harry walked out of the room. Just as he walked past the door, someone knocked.
"Oh hello." Harry said, seeing Eilidh at the door.
"Hello, is Simba there?" She asked with a smile.
"He's upstairs getting ready just now – why don't you come in? He should be down in a few minutes."
"Thank you." Eilidh said, watching as he walked up the stairs.
"Oh, Lee's in the living room, if you want to talk to her – she's slightly…..hysterical." He grinned at her before turning from view.
Up in his room, Harry showered quickly and morphed into Simba. He smirked and turned invisible, creeping down the stairs and into the living room.
***
"Who was that?" Eilidh asked Leona.
"Who was who?"
"The guy that opened the door?"
"Oh, you mean Harry. That would be my Warrior student."
"Right. How is he doing?"
"Pretty well, all things considered."
"Huh?"
"Harry Potter. The Boy Who Lived."
"The human?"
"No, the Warrior."
"Oh. He's quite good-looking for a kid, isn't he?"
"Yeah, just don't let him catch you calling him 'kid'."
"Why not?"
"Well, he isn't really a kid – not after meeting Voldemort as many times as he has."
"But Voldemort's dead."
"Actually, I think you'll find that he's very much alive." Simba said, appearing from thin air.
"Sim, I wish you wouldn't do that."
"Why?" Simba smiled innocently.
"Oh just go and get dressed."
"I am dressed."
"Yeah, in your boxers." Leona smirked. Simba glanced down before glaring at Leona.
"You are going to pay, Lee." He swore, disappearing once again.
"Just go already."
"Yes mother." Simba said. Leona shrieked as a bucket of freezing cold water fell on her head.
***
Simba stood at the front of the large conference room, chatting quietly with the Minister and doing his level best to ignore the flashbulbs popping every so often. He truly hated getting his picture taken, especially for publicity. Despite this, he seemed perfectly at ease, and not the slightest bit nervous.
"Mr Tide! Mr Tide! What makes you think that you're the Mage?" One journalist questioned loudly.
"Sir, I'll answer questions once everyone has arrived."
"Everyone has arrived!" A few people shouted.
"Actually, I believe that we're waiting for one or two."
"Who?"
"Julie-Anne Frost and Curtis Hallwood." Simba replied, not even bothering to look around.
"How did you know that? Do you have an agreement with either, or both, of them?"
"No, I knew because I have to." At that moment, two people came bustling through the door, out of breath and looking rather soaked.
"Now we can begin." Simba smiled, inclining his head towards the reporters.
"Mr Tide! What makes you think that you're the Mage?" The journalist repeated.
"Several…..unusual abilities."
"Like what?"
"You will see later, at the testing."
"Are you nervous about being tested, Mr Tide?"
"Not at all."
"Are you confident?"
"Relatively so."
"Is it true that you lived in the human world?"
"Indeed it is."
"Is it true what the Potter human says? Is You-Know-Who back from the dead?"
"First of all, 'the Potter human' has a name and should be known by that, not by his history. And as for Voldemort, it is my understanding that he was never dead in the first place – but yes, it is true that he has returned from whichever hole he had been hiding in."
"If you are indeed the Warrior Mage, will you ally us with the Wizarding Ministry?"
"Having met the Wizarding Minister, I'd say that it was rather unlikely. But I will make no decisions without long and hard consideration."
"Do you have a girlfriend or wife, Mr Tide?"
"No I don't." Simba said, blushing ever so slightly.
"Is there anyone special in your life, Mr Tide?"
"My family is extremely important to me." Simba replied.
***
An hour later, the press had all but run out of questions, and Simba was finally allowed to leave the stuffy room. He disappeared in the blink of an eye, heading straight to the room at Privet Drive, ensuring him as much rest as he needed before the testing begun. He lay down on the couch, his eyes drifting shut.
When Simba woke, he felt much more rested and ready for the testing. After a quick meal, he Tripped back to Lesea, finding himself in the exact same place as he had been before leaving. "Did you go to your room?" Leona asked with a frown.
"Yeah, why?"
"Just wondered – are you ok? Not too nervous?"
"Lee, honestly, I'm fine. Stop fussing! You're more worried about this than I am!"
"Then you're not taking this seriously enough! People have died doing this!"
"Leona! I am not going to die – stop worrying!"
"I can't help it – and you might die."
"Aren't you cheerful. I promise, I'll be fine."
"You'd better be – after all, you'd disappoint an awful lot of girls if you weren't."
"Lee, don't even think about it."
"You know that Eilidh fancies you too?" Leona carried on, despite his warnings.
"You asked for it." Simba said, as her jaw clamped shut of its own accord. Leona tried to scold him, but couldn't speak at all, and instead made funny grunting noises that had Simba in fits of laughter, as she grew angrier and angrier.
"SIMBA!" She screamed as soon as she could break the spell, which was some time later.
"Toodles." Simba smirked, disappearing immediately, leaving Leona to fume alone until she could see the funny side of things.
***
Harry reappeared in the arena ten minutes early, still calm and relaxed. He knew that he could pass any test they threw at him as long as he kept his temper and remained calm.
"Ready to go, Simba?" The minister asked.
"Whenever you are." Simba smiled.
"Good luck – not that I think you'll need it."
"Thanks. I'll see you at the other side."
"Indeed." Simba barely registered the call of the loudspeaker as he entered the maze. It all seemed a little too reminiscent of the third and final Tri-Wizard task for his liking, but he pushed that particular thought to the back of his mind. As soon as he entered the maze, he tested the wards that had been placed there – no Tripping, nor any form of apparition. There was also a block on Portkeys, which mildly reassured Simba. He looked around, surveying the different paths. Just ahead, to the left, there was a dead end. To the right, there seemed to be a clear path, as there was straight ahead. Thinking carefully, Simba summoned a ball of string, and tied it to the hedge. That way, he figured, he wouldn't spend hours going round in circles.
***
Over the duration of the test, Simba found himself facing the most obscure and often disgusting tasks. He was beginning to regret eating before entering the test. Occasionally he would see things that brought back the pain of past events, such as a big black dog bounding towards him before disappearing altogether. There were also the tests of honour – the screams that he couldn't just walk away from, and the wailing of a child that he refused to leave. Both dissolved as soon as he touched them, leaving him very much alone. At one point, he was sure that he came across a Boggart, seeing his parents, Cedric and numerous others looking at him with hatred, calling him a murderer. He felt his palms begin to throb once again, but refused to look down to see the blood that was seeping from him. He had a test to pass.
***
By the time Simba reached the other end of the maze, night had fallen and he was weary. He had lost a significant amount of blood, and had used a lot of energy keeping himself from fainting. Leona took one look at him and broke into tears, hugging him fiercely.
"Told you I'd be fine." He said quietly, letting his eyes close.
"Your hands aren't ok."
"Minor run-in with a Boggart." He replied wearily.
"A Boggart?"
"You know the creature that shows you your worst fear?"
"Let me guess – Sirius?"
"Along with others, yeah."
"Damn. Are you ok?"
"I'm fine. I just need – a little time."
"Right. Well…..you might want to get cleaned up a bit before going out there."
"Sure." Simba sighed and flicked his wrist lazily, cleaning his slightly grubby robes and his face and hands. The skin on his hands was still cut quite badly, but it was only trickling a small amount of blood, thankfully.
***
That night seemed to last forever for Simba – all he wanted to do was to leave that place. He didn't want people coming up to him and congratulating him. He didn't want to be the centre of attention, and he sure as hell didn't want people celebrating him. Leona stayed by his side throughout the whole thing, causing many rumours on doing so. Neither of them cared much though, as Simba's mood took a nosedive upon thinking about how his family should be there to see him, to be proud of him.
"I'm leaving." He said at midnight, when he couldn't stand the joyful, happy atmosphere anymore. He wanted to find a dark place and curl up in it forever. He settled, however, for his room in the Tide's house, locking the door with so many charms that it was impossible to enter, no matter how skilled the person trying to get in. The house could have burned down that night, and Simba's room would remain untouched.
***
Over the next few days, Harry spent most of his time in the guise of Simba, busy with the official business that he had to do. Mostly, it was paperwork, and making sure that nothing was out of place, and occasionally he would accompany the Minister on visits to important and influential people in the Wizarding City, and, occasionally, to other races as well, though he noticed that the Minister didn't seem overly keen on communicating with the Wizarding World.
***
Christmas came and went in Lesea, and Harry was surprised to get a much larger pile of presents than he had ever gotten before. He smiled as he unwrapped a large glass sphere, containing a tiny house, which Harry recognised as the Burrow.
"All you need to do to see what's happening in any room in the house is tap the surface and say which room you want to see – or, if you want, you can say the name of the person and you see what they're doing." Leona explained.
"Wow – umm…..Remus Lupin." He saw Remus sitting in Grimmauld Place, looking bored. Tonks entered the room too, and they started talking.
"Oh, here." Leona fiddled with a little switch at the base of the sphere and voices echoed from it.
"How long until Harry's back?" Tonks asked.
"Seven and a half days."
"That long? Can we please go and strangle those god-awful Muggles?"
"No, Tonks. Just stay here. The Order will be here soon."
"Is today the meeting that Professor Dumbledore's going to tell everyone where Harry went?"
"Apparently so."
"Right. Well this is going to be interesting."
"Yeah – maybe I should bring a camera."
"Good idea – I'm sure Harry would appreciate seeing the reactions to his news."
"Right – I'll go and find a camera then." Harry tapped the sphere lightly and the picture faded.
"I agree with Tonks and Remus – this is going to be interesting. Feel like crashing an Order meeting?"
"You're on – as long as you mean watching it from your globe. Going into the human world would take up most of Christmas day."
"Fair enough." Harry said, giving her a hug. "Thank you for my present."
"No problem."
"So, what do you guys do for Christmas?"
"Basically the same as wizards – eat lots, exchange presents and generally have a good time – oh, and there's a massive ball tonight that you will be expected to attend, as Warrior Mage – anyone you particularly want to invite?"
"Oh gods no." Harry shuddered.
"Pity - I'm sure Eilidh….." Harry clamped a hand over Leona's mouth before she could say any more.
"I am not – once again – interested in Eilidh." He said firmly, taking his hand away from her mouth.
"Fine, ok. I get the point. Who are you going with?" Harry smiled at her innocently, his eyes going wide.
"Well…..you're not going with anyone, are you?"
"No." Leona said cautiously.
"Will you go with me then? Please?"
"Oh all right." Leona sighed. She hoped she wasn't giving Harry the wrong message by accepting – he was gorgeous, but she just didn't like him in a romantic way – he was like a little brother – or perhaps an older brother – to her. He grinned at her, making her heart sink.
"Thanks sis." He said, his green eyes twinkling with suppressed laughter. Leona's mouth dropped open as she blushed.
"You can read minds now?"
"No, I can read your mind – there's a difference. The idea of a mind link between trainer and trainee was originally used thousands of years ago – many people have forgotten that these links exist. They're usually dormant, unless either, or both, of the parties purposely bring them out – I decided that that might be a good thing for us."
"Why?"
"Because, if I have another episode of a guilt trip, you need to bypass the ears and go straight to the mind. Plus, that way we can keep tabs on each other."
"Why do you need to keep tabs on me?"
"Because if Voldemort manages to recruit Warriors into his forces, you will become a target – the trainer of Harry Potter, remember. Voldemort doesn't want me to become powerful."
"Oh. Right. Well that makes sense. How do I use the link?"
"Focus on me – you'll feel some resistance at first, because I'm not overly keen on people entering my head. Do NOT push on the barriers, otherwise I'm likely to flip out. Just a small warning ahead of time."
"Right, so how do I get in if I don't push on the barriers?"
"Patience – I can recognise when there's someone in my mind – if you don't try to force entry, I'll let you in."
"What if Voldemort tried that tactic?"
"Believe me, if Voldemort comes into my mind, I will know about."
"Why?"
"Because the scar links us. It is painful when he's about."
"Oh. Ok then. Let's try this then." Leona closed her eyes, focussing on Harry. She felt herself slam into the equivalent of a solid brick wall in Harry's head. Taking his advice she waited for it to disappear. Moments later, it did.
This is incredible.
Isn't it? You're allowed to come closer, you know. I don't bite.
Could I see anything from here – I mean, like whatever you're seeing, or memories?
Er…..if I let you, I suppose.
Will you?
Perhaps.
Now?
No, not now. Maybe later.
Ok. So let me get this straight – you are in charge of what happens with the connection?
Only in my mind – you're in control when we're in your mind.
Cool. Can I see what it's like to look through you eyes?
Sure. Harry smiled as Leona saw what he was seeing – Leona sitting with her eyes closed, looking immensely shocked.
Incredible. This is bizarre. I'm staring at myself.
Indeed you are. Anyway, dinner's just about ready – let's go.
Ok then.
***
The next few months passed quickly for both Harry and Simba – while Harry always seemed to be training, Simba always seemed to be in demand for something or other – usually for official things that bored him to death. He would never be a politician, he decided. There were numerous occasions when he was obligated to show his face at events – usually parties or balls – and more often than not, he dragged Leona with him. Once or twice, he went with Eilidh, finding her pleasant enough company. The Minister hadn't been kidding when he had said that Simba wouldn't be short of female admirers – he had never realised just how many females there were in the City until there was a group of about fifty following him everywhere. Leona found this hilarious, of course, though Simba found it mildly harassing and annoying. He was looking forward to going back to the human world, where the females were at least semi-sane.
***
"Harry! Wake up Harry!" Leona sung from his door. Harry rolled over and scowled at her.
"What?"
"It's time to get up."
"No it's not." Harry disagreed.
"Yes it is – it's eight o'clock already. I let you have a hug lie in."
"I only went to bed at five!"
"Well whose fault is that?"
"Yours, I believe." Harry smirked. Leona smiled sheepishly, knowing that he had got her there.
"Oh forget it, I'm getting up." Harry said with a sigh.
"Good. I'll be in the kitchen when you're ready."
"Fine."
Harry dressed quickly, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he desperately tried to wake up enough to be at least fairly lucid.
He met Leona in the kitchen, as promised, where she was sitting, tapping her fingers impatiently.
"What's up?" Harry asked.
"Oh, not much. I think the Minister is going to call Simba for some business today, so I thought we'd make a start already – I'm going to try and teach you one of the most difficult spells you'll ever have to master."
"Which is?"
"Shielding yourself from death."
"You mean like Avada Kedavra?"
"Yes – you'll be able to stop that if you master this. It's never been mastered before – not by anyone except you."
"Huh?"
"When you were a year old you managed to deflect the curse – that was the shield."
"No – my mother's sacrifice made the curse rebound."
"Actually it didn't – it did, however, enable your power to protect yourself. Your mother's sacrifice helped, but it was not the reason that you lived – otherwise, there would be so many other children who survived the curse."
"I never thought of that." Harry conceded, looking slightly confused.
"Neither did anyone else, apparently. Or if they did, they must have thought your situation was a fluke, or that Lily was particularly powerful, or something like that."
"I guess so. So not even Dumbledore knows about this?"
"Nope. The shield is almost impossible to create – but I'm sure you'll be able to master it."
"Right, so what do I do?"
"Focus entirely on the will to live and repelling the little soul-sucking light that comes from the curse."
"Lovely." Harry said. He closed his eyes and imagined Voldemort shooting the killing curse at him. He wracked his brain for something to cling on to – some reason to live, and found nothing – if he died he might see his parents and Sirius again…..
"Harry, wake up." Leona shouted. Harry winced as his eyes opened.
"What happened?"
"You collapsed – it didn't work?"
"Nope." Harry said, remembering just how colossal a failure it was – he had nothing to live for – nothing except that prophecy. Meanwhile, the guilt came flooding back to his mind, his hands splitting painfully and bleeding heavily.
"Uh oh." Leona murmured, wincing at her own mistake. Harry was supposed to be there to have some time away from all of that, yet he had spilled his own blood twice since staying in the Warrior City. She worried that he wasn't going to stop blaming himself for a long time to come.
Hey Harry! She said loudly in his mind. There was no answer. The barriers around his mind had fallen already, and she quickly went in, seeing everything from Harry's point of view – she watched as memories replayed in his mind like a Muggle movie. She saw Sirius fall through the veil, and Harry's attempts to get to him. She saw the conversation with Dumbledore afterwards; saw the form of his Boggart. She moved her body and hugged him tightly, rocking him back and forth. Harry leaned in closer, seeking the reassurance that he had never had.
It wasn't your fault, she told him.
Yes it was! If I had learnt Occlumency like I was supposed to, then Voldemort wouldn't have tricked me and Sirius would still be alive!
You don't know that, Leona reasoned, he would have found another way to get to you – you know he would.
So? Sirius wouldn't have fallen through the veil! He would be alive! He wouldn't have left me!
No, he might have died a much more painful death though – Voldemort doesn't know the meaning of compassion or mercy. Even if you had learnt Occlumency, there's no way to say that Sirius would still be alive – he may be dead, along with lots of other people. You did what you thought was right.
I thought wrong then, didn't I?
Maybe you did, but you can't change that. You need to stay alive – what about your friends? Remus? Tonks? Do you want to hurt them?
No. Leona breathed a sigh of relief as she watched Harry's hands heal through his own eyes. She retreated to her own mind, still holding Harry close. She closed her eyes and wondered whether there was anything she could do to prove to Harry that no one blamed him for Sirius' death but himself.
***
After that day, Harry was determined to be able to create the shield – what Leona had said made a lot of sense, and she had given him something to cling on to. His friends. Ron and Hermione made a mistake, but he hadn't confided in them at all – he was as much to blame as they were. Remus had lost every other Marauder – James and Sirius to death, and Pettigrew to Voldemort. He wouldn't lose Harry too – not without good reason. And Tonks…..well…..she had been upset enough when he had blacked out. He didn't want to see how she reacted to him being dead.
***
"Harry, leave it. It's fine, really. We'll try it another day."
"No. I'm going to get this sooner or later." Harry growled.
"Yeah, that's all very well, but I don't need you exhausting yourself while you do."
"Argh!" Harry cried in frustration, making several items of furniture burst into flame, and a window explode.
"Harry!"
"Sorry. Guess I lost my temper."
"Hmm. Well this is useless – you're not going to get it today – you're too hyped up. Let's work on something else – do you want to go for a ride?"
"Sure." Harry said. He quickly restored the things he had destroyed before they both walked up to the stables.
***
Before Harry realised it, the year was over. He would be travelling back to the human world the very next day. The Minister had been surprised that he was leaving so soon, but agreed that he would be in contact if he needed anything. He and the Tides spent the evening together, promising to write and telling Harry to make sure that he wrote back, and that he was always welcome there, whenever he felt that he needed to get away from the human world. Harry smiled warmly at them all and hugged them. For the first time in his life, he felt like he was part of a family. The Weasley's had been good to him, but he had never really fitted in – with the Tides, he seemed perfectly at home. He smiled at Leona, thanking her mentally for letting him be a part of her family. She hugged him in return, telling him that he was as much her brother as he was her charge.
***
"Are you ready to go?" Leona asked.
"Yeah. I can't wait to see everyone – I've missed them all. But I'll miss being here too."
"Well it's not as if you won't be coming back, is it?"
"I know, but I won't be living here – it's different. I don't know where to call home anymore."
"People can have more than one home you know – and you're entitled to at least three."
"Three?"
"One for Harry the Warrior, one for Simba, and one for Harry the human."
"Well Harry the human is easy – Hogwarts. Harry the Warrior and Simba will just have to share the one home."
"Good, because I think mum would be heartbroken if her new and youngest son was the first to move out."
"Come on, Lee. Let's go before I decide to stay."
"Ok. Give me a minute to say bye to mum and dad."
"Sure. Tell them I'll drop by in a month or so."
"Your time or ours?" Serena asked cautiously, having come out to say her goodbyes.
"Yours of course. A day or two in my time."
"Good. Now go away before I start crying."
"Serena, I'm only going into the human world – and you can contact me whenever you want to."
"I don't want to intrude on you and your friends."
"Serena, you and your family are the closest thing I have to a proper family. You won't be intruding." Serena smiled weakly, tears welling in her eyes.
"Bye."
"I'll see you soon." Harry smiled.
"You'd better. Maybe we'll come to your world soon."
"Yeah, that's a good idea." Harry grinned.
"Well, we'll see you soon then."
"Yeah." With one last hug, Harry and Leona disappeared with a small 'pop'.