Disclaimer: I don't own Harry Potter, wish I do, though. JK Rowling is the one who owns and wrote the original story, that and any other firms she made contracts with.

The True Journey of Harry Potter

Chapter 18 – The quest part 6 – the last phase

It took Harry three days to finally wake up. Master Fane and Mistress Fayra along with the lady Harry had revived were getting worried. After he finally opened his eyes, he was introduced to Auntie Vinta, the Queen of all nagas, and mother of Naraj. She refused to be called anything else saying she was not that old. They helped the boy getting ready for the next and the last phase of the quest.

"We'll see you again in Bhiman, Harry," Mistress Fayra told him. "Come give me a hug and off you go."

"Ah… and for me?" Auntie Vinta said as he walked passed her in the doorway. Harry gave her a hug before walking out smiling.

Master Fane was waiting outside holding something out offering to him. "Wear this cloak from now on," the mystic said, "it will show your status that those Dhanpire could not refuse to acknowledge."

"Thank you, Master Fane," Harry said accepting the cloak and put it on. "Good Bye, elders. May your days be prosperous and safe," he said bowing to all the three elders.

-o0o-

Day xx (I don't know how many day has passed)

I just woke up from my last comatose. I'm still tired though. I just want to leave a short note here to let you all know that I'm still alive. Sorry for worrying you all.

Anyway, I'm now on the boat again heading for Arama and then I will be heading along the road – yes, a road, finally! I was thinking I'd be trekking in the jungle again, but Master Fane and Mistress Fayra told me that I will be pointed the path to Bhiman by the Dhanpire. Master Fane seemed to think that those Dhanpire might do something though; he gave me a cloak to wear that I will describe it later. Right now, I'm too tired to even keep my eyes open. Might be those potions Auntie Vinta made me drink after breakfast.

-o0o-

"MUM, DAD, AUNT MARGE!" Dudley's voice rang through the house causing his father who had been washing the car, his mother and aunt who were talking over the dining table in the kitchen, ran to him with panic.

"What's wrong, Dudley?" asked Marge.

"The journal…. It's glowing." The boy told her pointing at the leather-bound journal that had been placed in the glass cabinet. Said journal that was quiet for the last 6 months was placed there after they had been worried sick of the boy who had the original one. Aunt Marge casted a magic-hiding charm in her witchcraft fearing that if any of those wizard came by, they would notice the magical item. They were not sure if the absent of Harry in the house would let those people come to check. Unbeknown to them though, the magic of the house had also been doing their job. When the squib woman, Figg, came around once she noted that Harry was not walking around the neighborhood, she was shown that the boy was either working in the kitchen or studying in his room upstairs. Once in a while, she would see Harry sitting in the car Petunia or Marge driving out of the area.

Petunai let out a cry of "Finally!" while Vernon walked to the cabinet and get the journal out. He read the last entry out loud to his family and sighed after finishing. "At least, he's alive."

"Hmm… that boy," muttered Aunt Marge not so quietly, "he should have explained more."

"Now, Marge," said Petunia, "I'm sure he will write more soon. It sounds like he's worn out."

"Right," Marge just nodded, "I'm wondering who that Auntie Vinta is, though." She finished her musing with what everyone was thinking too.

-o0o-

Harry woke up with a start that the boat seemed to halt rather harshly. He sleepily waved his hand over the screen to turn it on and watch the scene. He reached the shore line at last and it seemed he had slept through the journey. Harry step on the pole to get out of the boat and breathed in the fresh salty air. He decided to wait for a little while longer setting up his tent at the beach for the day and thought to start his trekking the next day instead. His belongings were summoned to him and he shrunk the boat before putting it into his rucksack. He was not told if he had to return the boat or not, so he assumed that he could keep it as a souvenir. Well, at least until Krulo came to pick it up from him.

Harry finished his last batch of food that night. He had only 2 gallons of drinking water, 2 bottles of orange juice and a bottle of butterbeer left. All of the meat and canned products were gone. By the time he noticed it, he had just had the largest dinner for himself. He berated himself for a few minutes before settling down telling himself to go vegetarian for the rest of the trip, if he could find any edible fruits in the forest starting tomorrow, of course.

He spent that night listening to the wave hitting the shore luring him to sleep. That night, he had a rather strange dream that he woke up wondering if it were real. In his dream, Master Fane came to his tent to wake him up and brought him to the limbo place where he met his parents the last time. He spent the night with his grandparents on both side along with his parents. He was told many things mainly about the history of the Evans and Potter families. He was instructed, with more details this time, to arrange something for both the Squib Society and his godfather who was left in the Azkaban prison. He was told to beware of Dumbledore and some other people who were death eaters or politicians.

He spent the morning without anything for breakfast, but the orange juice. He scolded himself once again and thought angrily that he should remember about having no food left and mention it to Master Fane last night, if the dream was real. Though, he had already made up his mind to follow all those instructions and heeded the warnings he got.

Once the tent was packed and he started his trekking, Harry felt observed. Someone had been followed his every move and been doing it for the past ten minutes. Harry let his sense go on full alert mode and noted that there were three beings watching him.

"Greeting to you," said Harry, "would you mind show yourselves?"

The bush ahead of him showed sign of somebody moved and a man appeared. "State your name, race and intention of passing through," the man said with quite a rude gesture along with some insulting comment in the ancient tongue of Himabhanta that he thought the boy did not understand. Harry knew where the other two hidden beings were, but he showed no sign of acknowledgement.

"Harry Potter, human, and I'm traveling to Bhiman," he replied flatly.

"Human," spat the man, "why should I let you pass through my realm?"

"Because I have my pass, of course," said Harry showing him the invitation letter.

"Give it to me and let me decide if you're allowed and granted," the man said trying to grab the parchment out of Harry's grasp.

Harry, with a quick thinking, moved away and put the letter back in this bag. "I'll not let you have it until I know who you are, sir."

"Why you…" the man threatened.

"Enough," a voice came from above a palm tree. Slowly descending down was another man. This particular man was a bit taller than the one confronting Harry and his pointed ears were the sign of the dhanpire and with the string musical instrument in his left hand that just confirmed it.

"Harry Potter, Holy goodness," the approaching man greeted, "May your days be prosperous and safe."

"May yours as well, sir," Harry replied. He bowed his head showing respect, but not at all at ease. "I have my invitation and request to be granted passage, sir."

"We will see to that in a moment. May I see the invitation, then?" the man asked.

Harry did not know if he should, but decided that if worse came, he just had to transform to his winged body and flew away. He was not sure if he could 'disapparate' in Himabhanta and he was not going to try to find out either. The boy took the parchment out of his bag and handed it to the dhanpire.

Alampire was quite furious with his man. I should have not let Wayo make the first talk. The man is just as temperamental as the wind, his namesake. And for Heaven's sake! Is that THE CLOAK? Darn Wayo, I hope the boy was not mad at the rude remark. He took the letter from the boy and read twice looking up at the boy in front of him.

"It seems to be in order," he said handing back the parchment. "Would you like to visit one of our villages before continuing your trip?"

"I'd be happy to, sir," replied the boy. "I'm in need of some food supply, but I'm not sure if I have anything that resembles the currency used in your realm."

"That would not be a problem, Mr. Potter," the man said, "If you have galleons of those goblins, it will do fine here. It's gold at least and I'm sure the goldsmith would be happy to trade with you."

Harry smiled for the first time since breakfast. At least he had a few galleons in his pocket. He had never used it before, it was no use in the muggle world and he had never set foot in the wizarding world. The Prince Ragnok had given them to him as a birthday present last year and he was not sure why he felt it would be needed that he included them into his small pouch while he was packing.

"I am glad to hear that, sir," he told the man, "if you would lead the way, sir?"

"Ah," exclaimed the dhanpire, "please follow me, Mr. Potter. By the way, my name is Alumpire, the Guardian of Arama, the inner realm of Himabhanta."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, elder Alumpire," Harry said bowing, this time more respectful and with grace.

The dhanpire smiled and bowed back before saying knowingly, "it would seem that soon I'll have to bow down to you all the time, Mr. Potter."

"But not until then," Harry replied, "and even then, I still think it is proper to show respect to the Guardians of the realms."

Alumpire just smiled and made a gesture telling him to follow. They reached the village gate in no time. It would seem that the first village of the land were a fishermen village that most of the people living off fishery. Harry was introduced to some elders who lived there and told that the villagers were not all dhanpires. They were also humans who had moved with them since the time of separation many centuries ago. These people were descendents of the hermits who have left their homes to seek refuges and find wisdom and peace.

Harry spent a few days in the village meeting people and learning some musical instrument. He knew how to play pianos, violins and guitars; he soon found out that he enjoyed playing lyres more. The ancient harp-like instrument just intrigued him and he was graced with Alumpire as his teacher. The dhanpire was quite fond of the boy and it was a pleasure to find that his prince-to-be had wonderful fingers to play with the instrument he was born with. Dhanpires were born with musical instrument in their hands and as they aged, the instrument grew with them. And the boy just took it like sponge soaking up water and became quite a fluently master player in only two days at that.

-o0o-

Day 4 in the fishermen village, Arama

I'm going to leave this village at noon and start my road trip heading towards Bhiman. Elder Alumpire has cautioned me to stick to the road and no harm shall come. I'm not about to argue with that anyway.

My galleons worth more than I first thought it would be. The goldsmith was so happy to give me 100 golden stones for each galleon! And to think that I could buy a cluster of bananas with only 30 silver stones, I just became rich over the deal! Right, don't worry though, Aunt Marge, I made a ledger and fill in the way you taught me. I'll show you when I go back then. (NOTE: 100 silver stones equals to 1 golden stone.)

I forgot to mention it in my last two entries about my dream the first night I landed. So, I'm writing here and let you know. You can arrange something before I arrive back home.

I'm quite sure now that the dream was actually a true event. I mean, I told you about meeting my parents, right? This dream happened as Master Fane came to take me to the place I met my mum and dad. So, I went there with Master Fane and this time, not only my parents were there, but also my grandparents on both sides. Yes, Aunt Petunia, I met Grandpa Terry and Grandma Marie. They told me to tell you that they are sorry for what you have been through and happy that we have done what we did with the Society and everything. Oh! And mum told me to tell you that she understood what you did before that night and she said she did not hold you responsible for anything that happened to me then.

For the Squib Society, we need to start gathering not just our old people back, but to include those muggleborns' parents as well. Since the land where the Gathering Hall located is the Evans', I, as the only sole heir of the magical Evans, have to grant the permission for those not in the Society to enter. But I have already given your names, Aunt Petunia, to the goblins, as my proxy regarding the Evans account. So, you have the power to act for me.

I'm also thinking of giving the Evans account to Dudley too since he's an older male of the family. According to Granpa Terry, it could be done and agreed with me. Think of it this way, I have more families' accounts to take care of than I should. Also, although not truly magical, you guys are in the Squib Society and that is enough for the Goblins to acknowledge your claims.

So, Dud, you will have to learn finance and business management. Hah, take that, bro! Oh, almost forgot, not only the Evans account will be handed to you, but also the Magical Dursley one too. It was held in trust at the Gringotts I'm told. But it will not be like that at the moment, though, no worry there, Dud. You'll have to be at least 17, the time of age in the magical world. So, there are still a few years to come.

Okay, the idea for the Squib Society was actually agreed upon with Master Fane and he said that Mistress Fayra would be attending a session of meetings to arrange some more serious settlements. I don't know of the details, but just that, the Society will expand its body. Also, Aunt Marge, as you would know more about this; please arrange some business settings within the members of the Society and find a good contractor company. We will need them later.

Hmm… what else I should tell you. OH! Right, Uncle Vernon, you are not off the hook, as my Granma Marie said; she wants you to contact a man named Derrick Evanson in U.S.A. She said that you'll know what and why. Hope you know though, Uncle, because I have no idea.

Elder Alumpire is at the door. I have to go now. Later!

-o0o-

On his first night, Harry camped in a small clearing beside the road. He was told that he would find the camping spots along the road all the way straight to Bhiman and when he reached a junction on his fifth day; he might find a few caravans those of merchants doing business from various towns and villages in the realm of Arama and the capital city of Bhiman. Harry was looking forward to that.

The trip was quiet and uneventful. However, on his forth night, Harry was woken up by sounds of growls and howls of wolves. Built up some courage, being intrigued, Harry slowly crept to the entrance of the tent and had a peak. He met an unusual sight just a few yards away from his tent. There were a least 5 wolves surrounding a creature. Harry tried to make out what kind of animal was that being encircled. The boy pondered if he should lend a hand and to his surprise, his hands were not needed.

In a flash, the small creature let out a loud roar. And before his eyes, the little creature just grew. Harry was fascinated by the figure. It looked like a lion, but the feet were hooves instead of paws and its furs all over the body had a circular pattern. The mane and tip of its tail was made of fire. Harry was sure they were furs but looked like having caught fire or something. The wolves were cowered back and dashed away.

As though it knew that he was looking, the creature turned to the tent and their eyes met. Harry felt dizzy for a moment and felt his occlumency barrier breached. Tried as hard as he could, the boy could not fight against the mental probe. Then, as it came, it was gone. The creature slowly paced towards him. Harry backed away from the tent entrance. He knew that the ward parameter should hold the creature at bay, or at least he hoped so. To his dismay, the creature just walked past the safety line and entered the tent. Though, Harry noticed that it was not the big and scary one anymore. The creature now looked like a small kitten.

The little kitty looked up at him and purred. By instinct, Harry lifted his hand and petted it. Their eyes locked once again and this time Harry felt magic pouring from the little creature as though asking something. Harry was surprised. He knew it was magical, of course, a creature that could change shape would be magical, but he did not understand why the magic from the little animal would act like this. And he seemed to know what it was asking of him. Harry let his sense worked and gave permission to the little kitten's magic. He felt a presence in his mind again and this time he was called into his mindscape – more like being demanded an audience. Harry shifted his sense inwards and found himself facing the big creature instead of the small kitten he was petting.

Playing safe, Harry bowed and greeted, "Holy goodness, may your days be prosperous and safe."

"Greeting to you, Harry Potter," said the creature. Harry was shocked and confused, a bit frightened too. How could it know his name? Then he got the idea, the probe. If his name was so easy to be revealed like this, how could it be safe for him while the names were as important as blood in the magical realms of Himabhanta?

"Fear not, young one," he heard, "I am Atin. Your knowledge of magical being is sufficient enough that you will know what I am in no time. I shall give you but 3 minutes and see if I'm wrong."

A small rumble that sounded so much like laughter was followed. Harry calmed down seeing that no harm was coming and took his 3 minutes time. Magical creatures in Himabhanta were quite different from the western ones. Grandmother Morgana who took care of the Creatures and Beings class made sure that Harry had enough knowledge about them before letting him come. More like ground into my head, Harry snorted. Hmm. Lion based, horse-like hooves, TINNA SRIHA! Eyes widened, Harry looked up at the creature before him. More information came to him. Herbivorous in nature, but easily angered being as it is fire creature of the four pure lions in Himabhanta. Normally would stay out of the way where human or human based beings resided. They are playful and mischievous, but a true fighter when it comes to battle, while its cousin, Kala Sriha, is more aggressive. It has been recorded that Tinna Sriha fought its black cousin and won. While Kala Sriha, the black lion might be stronger, the Tinna Sriha is rumored to be closer related to Krisorn Rajasri, the fierce one and believed to be the King of the four pure lions. The resembling between the two is the red color; while Tinna Sriha has its red body, the Krisorn Rajasri has its mane, lip, tail-tip and paws in red.

"I see you have the information," stated the singha in front of him, Harry nodded affirmative. At least, I'm not your type of snack, thought the boy darkly. However, it came out cleared as the sky in his mindscape and the singha let out a laugh. "One thing you should keep in mind, young Harry," it said, "to never rely purely in theory until you really have a practical encounter with the creature. We, as in I and my cousin, Kala Sriha, may be herbivorous eating only plants, leaves and herbs, but once in a while we do need meats. Deciding to be the vegetarians out of the 4 pure lions was just a way we tried to spare the lives and foods for our other 2 cousins who eat like a pig. Err… don't say you hear from me about that, alright?"

Harry let out a giggle, boyish one – Harry made sure of that. Not tense anymore, Harry dared to ask. "What can I do for you, O' Singha?"

"Ah," came the reply, "nothing much, my young human. I am just merely interested in why there was heavy magic around the area and wanted to investigate. So surprised to meet the rumored one, yes I am."

"The rumored one?" asked the boy intrigued.

"Why, of course," Atin replied, "they're saying that the Prince-to-be is travelling to Bhiman. He was blessed by the Wise Nymph, encountered the Fierce Lord Devon, cured the cursed souls those of nagas and revived Her Highness Vinta from her cursed punishment."

Harry blushed red in embarrassment. "I didn't do anything particular, just did what I'm told."

"A humble one, I see." Atin stated. "Now, I'm here to ask you, young Harry."

"Please kind singha, ask away."

"I'm bored," said the creature, "nothing much happened in this realm of Himmabhanta anymore. With the ruling of Bhiman and the support of those Holy Mystics, there has not been any excitement for me for a long time. You may find on your journey many others who think like me and I would like to be the first one who is granted your companionship."

"Companionship?" asked Harry. "You'd like to travel with me?"

"Of course," replied Atin, "it would be a great honor and I see great battles coming your way. Could I be one of your fellows fighting alongside you?"

"It… it would be my honor to have you with me, O' Singha," stammered the boy.

"Brilliant!" the lion exclaimed. "Then, you should call me by my name, young Harry. Don't want those poor humans have a heart attack seeing your with me now, do we? I'll be in my little kitty form while we travel, only to resume my true self in battles. Would that be acceptable?"

"Yes, O'… I mean Atin," Harry said sheepishly.

"Then, let's go out and have a little rest. It's still a few hours before sunrise."

Thus, started the friendship long for life; back at home, Harry would be asked about his familiars for they were more to come by, but he would say they were not master and familiars. They are friends, friends who fought together and covered each other's backs.

-o0o-

Day 10 after landing the shore – on the road heading to Bhiman

Atin has made a very good impression on those ladies in the caravan we are joining. Though he would sometimes go to them for a little petting or snack, he is constantly by my side as soon as someone approaches me. This is my first time taking a cart ride sharing with a family of 4. The father is a stone mason who joins this trip to sell his products. His wife is a great cook while their 2 little 4-years-old twins are so much fun and cute. They are first-generation magical children of the non-magical humans. I tell them some tales and give them some pointers to wandless magic. They can do it on their first try!

Gretna, the mother, asked me about Atin since he acts so much unlike a normal cat. I just told her that Atin is a magical breed and he understands what we say to him. She's impressed. As her children are magical, she will be enrolling them at an elementary school for magical children in Bhiman. Their family is going to settle down in the city. So, that's why they have all of their belongings with them. They're moving.

From Atin, I learnt Bhiman is a still growing city and it keeps expanding. The population increases almost triple in the last 2 years. That's why we are taking longer reaching the capital. He says, "As the city grows, the forest and other realms grow along to keep the balance." Not just the space and human beings either, the population of other creatures is also blooming!

We just passed the first check-point of the Bhiman guard. This means we are now in the realm under control of the Palace. They didn't even check my pass and identity, neither of Hover and his family. I think the quality of the security needs some improvement. Hmm… not even reach the Palace and be a real Prince, I'm already criticizing them. Ha!

We are reaching the first campsite in a few kilometers. Hover says it will be quite a sight.

We just settled in the camp. It's HUGE! The site is like a small market place. We have a little space in front of the tents that Hover makes it a makeshift workshop and shows his goods. Gretna took care of the shop front while I tend to their children.

The twins were so fast and wouldn't stay in one place for more than 5 minutes. Were Dudley and I like this? Thank you, Aunt Petunia, Uncle Vernon and Aunt Marge, for keeping up with me. I had to frog-march them back to the tent when the sun was setting. Most of the goods were sold. Business was good, Hover says. Trading in the campsite would let the customers get a lower price. Most of the people just come to the campsite instead of looking for what they want in the market in the city where goods are more expensive. Raw materials, potions ingredients, plants, and rare stuff are found more here than in the city. Some come for a wholesale price and make a small profit in the city.

Speaking of business, do you have any problem with the arrangement in the Society? Why don't we start our version of marketplace like this in the land of the Gathering Hall? May be a weekend fair? Just an idea to grow our little society and let the non-magical gets custom with the idea of magic and such.

-o0o-

The caravan spent another night at the camp and Harry did not find it really bothered him to delay his arrival to Bhiman. He enjoyed looking after the children, being a big brother to them.

It took another two days for them to reach the second check-point. This time, as thought they knew Harry was criticizing, Harry had to present his invitation to the guard to show his identity and such. The guards looked bewildered for a moment before collecting his pose. Harry was not asked any awkward question. But the moment the caravan passed through, the head-guard immediately made a contact to the Palace informing them of a Master Harry Potter holding a candid invitation.

-o0o-

Suwan, the King's private secretary, took the note with high regard telling all of his subordinates to keep the matter top priority and confidential. Only those ranked above second class were to be informed.

Master Fane, Mistress Fayra and Mistress Vinta had arrived the day before. Many underlings were wondering who those three were for even the King had come down from the Palace to receive them. It was an unusual sight for the people of Bhiman to see the King's possession descending down from the Palace straight to the Pentagon Plaza. Some old scholars recognized the Mystics, but dared not speaking of them. It was not a rule nor there were any laws prohibiting them, but it was a silent agreement among those in the know that this should not be mentioned at all mostly due to their respectability and royalty.

Not long after the Mystics arrived, the Palace was once again opened with a marvelous stairway landing down in a corner of the Plaza to the right of the gate entrance of the Royal Garden with security guards scattered around the area. The people of Bhiman were informed that in the period of a month, they were free to request for a visiting pass to the floating Palace either just a tour or to formal visit with the Bureau of the Royal Household. Even a request to have an audience with HM the King Devanate was promptly well-received and granted in some cases.

Lord Arth, the King's Privy Council Head, made an announcement that the council would open a reception in the park if there were anyone wanting to visit with them. In a day time, the schedule was made and became full. The reception was extended infinitely. Lady Chandra made a comment that brought hopeful and faithful eyes of the people; the reception might be made a permanent one.

In one month, the open invitation was well met and people satisfied with the outcome. True, some got what they wished while some was disappointed in their request, but they were still grateful to be able to voice their mind. It would be quite a common sight to see the King and the other three royalties around either on the Palace above or in the Royal Garden not far from the reception area.

The three newly introduced royalties were HRH Prince Fane, Princess Fayra, and Princess Vinta of Intra-Raj. The Intra-Raj was believed to be the main branch of the Royal Families which the Intra-Kumar line was minor to. However, this brought some questions to the minds of many politicians and the like. While the major populations were rejoiced that the Royal lines were once again having more members and just as generous and kind ones at that, those who were not really assenting the ruling of the Intra lines were making suspicious comments and questioned the legitimacy. They were always there, the rebellions, but they had never had enough power whether it be political, financial or military. Their lack of supporters was the biggest glitch for their rebellious plans to work. Besides, the people of Bhiman loved the Royalties, had been from the start. To top it off, the Intra line had supports from every single intellectual creature both magical and mundane. The damnation curse of all nagas was an example, though not particularized, the general idea of what became of those causing troubles to the royal line, even it was an internal affair, was severely punished. Coincidently, the Princess Vinta was recognized in similarity to the mother of all nagas, Lady Vinta Nagee. Rumors started, expanded quietly, but rapidly died down. To some, it was just rumors and like fire, once it started, it extinguished when there was no more kindling to fuel it. To others, it was hushed up by the authorities. Whatever it was, the rebellions failed once again to poison the minds of the Bhimanians with their beliefs.

-o0o-

The caravan reached the third and last check-point a week after the second one. Harry enjoyed his time of cart-riding enormously. They were entering the outer region of Bhiman, the great wall of the city stood ahead. The grandeur of a double-door gate was made of gold; at least their caravan chief said so. The city guards once again checked their carts and identities. Harry's invitation parchment brought a few brows up. But nothing was said nor asked. Once the caravan got a permission to settle down in a quite large ground, the property of Lord Rahul, the youngest lord in the King's Privy Council, Harry bade farewell to the stonemason's family. After profusely thanking them, and place a small pouch of golden stones in the hand of one twins, he parted way heading to the Pentagon Plaza as he was told. Atin pranced beside him along the way. Some turned their eyes on the young boy with the small kitten.

Harry wondered over the crowds assembling at the entrance of the Royal Garden and looked at the stairway in awe. Atin sent a mental message telling him that he felt the three mystics in the garden, but Harry was not about to go in there with these much of people around. He was also told, in the letter, to stand in front of the naga statue and there shall be someone coming to get him. So, he decided to do just that.

The two companions started their small walk to the center of the Plaza where there were statues of magical creatures. Atin made a joke about how the Singha statue looked so much like his own great-grandfather, a true golden singha and got a shocking response in reply from the said statue.

'Don't you know that, little Atin,' a booming voice in their minds said. 'I am of course the replica of Singharaj, your great-grandfather. And along with my wonderful physical body shape I allowed Master Fane to make use of, I also imprinted it with a small part of my soul before I left this realm. You should do well to know and remember that. Even in death, you are not to insult and make joke about your elders, little Atin.'

'Gosh, I thought I was rid of him,' muttered Atin mockingly gaining a growl from the statue. 'So, my great-grandfather was still around I see. Were you the one who guide me to the Path to find my friend Harry?'

'Of course, my cub,' replied Singharaj.

'Then, I must thank you, honorable singha,' interjected Harry, 'for you have made me find a very great companion.'

'Think nothing of it, Master Harry Potter,' Singharaj said, 'I merely thought little Atin would be more use to you than running wild in the jungle. Not that he is much of helps you can get.'

'Great-grandfather!' exclaimed Atin in protest.

'Be that as it may,' Harry cut in, 'I really appreciate your idea.'

'Very well,' Singharaj accepted Harry's praise, 'I believe you have somewhere to be? Why don't you go there then? I see someone got impatient.'

Meekly nodded, Harry and Atin left heading to the Naga statue. To Harry's surprise, as soon as he stopped walking and looked at the Naga, their eyes met and the serpant's eyes came to live. Harry heard low grumbling sound followed by the hissing words of parcel-tongue.

"Young Master Harry Potter had arrived," it said, "I shall inform your attendant at once."

"Thank you, honorable naga," Harry hissed back, "may I know who am I to meet and how may I address you?"

"I have gone by many names, young master," replied the statue, "but Nagaraj is what my Master Fane called me. Your attendant is Suwan, the King's personal secretary, young master. Ah, here he comes."

"I thank you, honorable Nagaraj." Harry said bowing and turned to look at an old man approaching him.

Being respectful to elders was taught to Harry by his Grandma Morgana, especially in the crash course about Himabhanta's custom and tradition. But Atin, who knew what Harry about to do, to bow deeply and greet the old man with great respect and submission, stopped Harry just in time. Harry was curious, but trusted the Singha enough not to question him outright. So, instead, Harry merely looked at the old man's eyes and nodded slightly, "greeting, holy goodness, may your day be prosperous and safe."

"Greeting to you, your highness," came the reply. The old man seemed amused. "Please allow me, your humble servant, to guide you to meet His Majesty, your highness. I am Suwan, His Majesty the King Devanate's personal secretary."

"Thank you, Lord Suwan," Harry replied calling the man by his title with a deeper bow, but still keeping eyes contact. What little he knew about this man told him that Atin had better had a very good reason and explained it to him soon. Lord Suwan was not only the King's principal private secretary; by his right, he was also a Lord over a small region of Himabhanta, one of the ancient lords who helped founding this realm. Harry would bow to him more than normal just for his title.

'Note how he addresses you, my young friend,' Atin voice came to his mind. 'You are his prince, are you not? Show him respect, but not submission. You're doing fine the way you've been doing. It's enough.'

Harry understood then. By title, he was not more than a mere boy coming across the world to this land. By right, he was going to be crowned a prince should he passed whatever test lay before him. Still, power, rank and title counted here in the politics of Himabhanta. Lord Suwan was one of the most powerful, highest ranked and titled in this realm. He bowed to none but one and that was the highest positioned one.

"By the way, Lord Suwan, this is Atin, my companion," Harry informed that old man, "would it be alright if he joins us?"

"Atin, you said, your highness?" questioned the lord gazing at the small feline that was at the feet of Harry. Suwan showed his surprise, very briefly that was almost unnoticeable. "What are you, feline?" he snarled at Atin before turning his eyes to Harry. "My prince, please step away from this creature. It is not a normal kitten you might think it is."

Harry was confused at first and then he realized the Suwan was able to see something in Atin's form that said it was not a normal cat, but something else. Atin growled softly showing his annoy. Harry just smiled at the words coming into his mind from Atin about old man didn't know his place and what he would do if the man made any move to tackle him.

"Please, Lord Suwan," Harry hold up his hand, "I do know about Atin and trust him. He will not bring harm to anyone, but to defense himself and me."

"Are you sure, your highness?" asked the old man unsettled.

"Positive, my lord," Harry reassured, "and please call my Harry. I'm not your prince yet."

"Then, my young prince, you will call me Suwan," the man countered.

"Alright," the boy smiled brightly, "please lead the way, elder Suwan."

The King's personal secretary bowed and turned to lead the boy to the stairway. Instead of going up, Harry with Atin following closely, was led into the Royal Garden straight to a smaller round tent. The Guards moved away seeing who it was leading the way. They kept eyeing the boy following Lord Suwan with curious glance. Those higher than second-class rank recognized him immediately. However, with the strict order from Lord Suwan, they kept their mouth shut and showed no sign of acknowledgement.

Entering the tent, Harry found himself standing in a big circular room, 20 meters in diameter with marble floor. In the middle of the room was a round stone table with 9 seats. The chairs covered only a semicircle of the table. The space, without those chairs, was a raised platform with throne. Behind that throne was a higher platform with another 3 more thrones.

Some people in the room looked up at the newcomers and frowned. Of course, the frowns were not at Lord Suwan, but the small boy not older than ten at the look of it. Few were wondering who the boy was, while another few were happy to see the boy arrived safe and sound.

The Mystics, seated at the high platform, smiled at Harry. All activities stopped the instant HRH Princess Vinta stood up and graciously walked to the boy. She held out her hand and Harry took it to place a kiss on the back of her hand while bowed deeply.

"Greeting, your highness," he said smiling happily. "Holy goodness, may your days be prosperous and safe."

"Greeting to you, my young prince," Auntie Vinta replied, "how was your trip?"

"It was wonderful and safe as you've blessed me, my lady," Harry spoke up in return.

"Come, Harry," Vinta ordered her boy.

The two other Mystics smiled down at him with pride. He had played well in this situation. Had Harry showed sign of weakness or lack of tact, he would fail the first test they had set up for him – to hold himself in an unfamiliar environment and political struggle.

Meanwhile, Harry was running his mind with the situation he was in. There were people of high ranks here in the tent meaning that these were not ordinary assembling. Apart from the servant who he could clearly identify from their clothes, the rest were at least the assistants of their Lords or administrators in the government of Bhiman. What complicated and did not make any sense to Harry were the throne platforms. How come the King was seated below the Mystics? Oh, Harry knew that, by all mean, the Mystics were higher in power, rank and title than the King, but the other did not know that, did they? How could they accept that their King was below anyone?

Suddenly, Harry heard his Master Fane voice in his head. 'Are you going to stand there like a fool, boy?'

Harry shook out of his muse and smiled while apologizing in his mind before made a big show of bowing. "Greeting, your highnesses," he spoke, "Holy Goodness, may your days be prosperous and safe."

"And greeting from us to you, my young prince," said Mistress Fayra holding out her hand. Harry took it and placed a kiss as well.

Master Fane stood up sending a mild glare down at everyone in the room. "Since you all, at least those required, are here. I am making an announcement that I am sure your King should provide you with details later."

Everyone stopped their doings the instant those words left the Mystic. "Assembled gentleman, lady, and beings," started the Raj looking at every being in the room including Atin who was on Harry's shoulder at the moment. "This is Master Harry James Ambrosius Intra Evans Potter. His title is not important as of yet. He will be joining us in our journey which your King will also take. We have waited this past month for his arrival. Our journey will start in two days time early in the morning. That is all."

Master Fane stepped down and left the tent after that. Harry was led out by Mistress Vinta while Mistress Fayra remained in her seat. Once the boy and Vinta were gone, she held her gaze at resembling crowds. "What my dear husband forget to mention," She paused dramatically getting full attention from everyone while Devanate and Suwan merely smiled, "is that you may hear great news after the family gathering of the Intra line. The meeting will be held at Shangri-La. We shall be back at least after a month if anything goes as planned. Now, I must leave to join my family."

She stood up before turning to look at Davanate, "You Majesty, you have been such a wonderful host for your major family and Bhiman has been ruled much better than in time of the major line's ruling. I am expecting you at my mansion tomorrow's evening. Till then, I bid you and your people a farewell. We shall meet again."

As soon as the mistress left, many let out their breath they did not know they were holding. The servants were sent out leaving only the Lords and their personal people in the room. The administrators of the government were still in the room, most of them were trusted friends, if not family.

"My King," said Suwan watching Devanate slumped down in the throne he sat.

King Devanate looked at Suwan tiredly, his hand raising his chalice to take a sip of whatever strong drink he needed to calm his mind. "I am just tired, my friend. You all know that I dislike formality. While Master Fane is not much of one serious about the tradition and custom, Mistress Fayra is as stricted as my mother and the other ladies before her. You are family, so you know how it was."

That got some chuckles from his friends; still those females were not amused much. Lady Chandra, the most formal woman who controlled over the Moon region of Bhiman, looked quite offended. "Are you, Devanate, implying that we, ladies are too much of a nuisance?"

"Of course not!" exclaimed the King. While in his family and friends, the King's mask was off and he could act as his true self. "You know what I mean, Chandra."

Every lady, either humans or other beings, smiled – some even giggled. Male occupants in the room felt chill ran down their spines.

"So," a voice came from a relatively young man seating in one of the eight chairs, "that was Harry Potter, the Prince-to-be?"

"Yes, Rahul," replied Suwan. "He was not as I expected though."

"Why?" the King questioned.

"As per the instruction in the letter, the young prince stood in front of Nakaraj seemed to be in conversation with it. He looks just like normal ten-year-old boy. However, once we started our own greeting, he paused a bit and just acted the little royalty I was meant to meet."

"Well," Lady Saor chipped in. "What did you expect then? By the way he stood, spoke, and acted in this very room, I am starting to think we might have a new arrogant and spoiled little Prince in our realm soon."

Lady Saor was quite a temperamental one if anyone would dare say it. Good thing, she is as just, kind and honest as the other lords and ladies. Everyone knew that and think nothing of her words. True, it might sound offending, but that was her opinion and the others would have to find reasons and words to counter her statement.

Lord Suwan decided to cut in before thing got out of hand and too far from what he intended to say. "No, my dear Saor, it was nothing like that. I was actually expecting to see that kind of manner and act, to tell the true. Anyhow, once we got past the formal greeting, he was just as sweet as Rahul was in his childhood."

The teasing comment brought more chuckles and outright laugh from some.

"Are you saying I'm not a nice sweet little boy anymore, Grandpa Suwan?" asked the youngest lord cheekily.

"Enough," scolded the King playfully, "are you telling us, Suwan, that we have another mischievous young noble coming in our midst?"

"Sharp wit," Lady Chandra said.

"Elegant pose," added the Lady Puthrine.

"Arrogant little bugger," stated Lady Saor playfully.

"Charming," Lord Zeuk declared.

"And noble," said the Lord Arth with a straight face getting looks of confused and bewildered from some in the room. "What?" the lord asked, "They all said what I have in mind and I just added my last bit, even it was what the King mentioned already."

"Alright, alright," Lord Ankar, an equivalent to Mars of the Greek mythology in Himabhanta cut in. "So, we have a good little kid to look after soon, are we not?"

"No," replied the King gaining curious glances from everyone. "We are looking at our Prince who could be leading us. Yes, even me, if the family decided to have the major line back at ruling."

"But, Mistress Fayra said…" Lady Puthrine spoke up, but she was interrupted.

"True," said the King, "but that does not mean it will not happen."

-o0o-

In the Mystics' mansion, Harry was brought into the receiving hall, a grand living room with a door that was connected to an alcove that was right at the mansion's door. They all took a seat and discussed Harry's trip. Harry was congratulated and Atin was well introduced to the Mystics. Mistress Fayra and Auntie Vinta took a liking to the singha immediately. Auntie Vinta was trying to recall if she had met the being before. It took her only a few minutes and they started conversing in a hush tone over a corner while Harry was seated between Master Fane and Mistress Fayra.

The three on the sofa talked about the dreams Harry had and Master Fane said he indeed went to get the boy to meet his folks. Harry learnt that the Squib Society was in fact Mistress Fayra's idea and also those plans about expanding and developing the society into more than a mere gathering. Mistress Fayra mentioned that she had looked into the communities of magical around the world and found it failing into an unacceptable status especially those in the western countries.

Eastern magical communities were a tight knitted group. To the western community where the International Confederation of Wizards established and stood, eastern magical was just a small fraction of the magical world, the true though, was that there were more magical population in the eastern side of the world than the west. The easterners just did not flaunt it to the face of the west. While the west had their own magical government in each countries and the ICW as an international organization, the east has its own version of ICW called MAGE, the Magical Alliances of Governments of the East, which worked far better and closely interactive within its members. MAGE also worked alongside the GoM, the Guild of Magic that Merlin and Morgana had built. The eastern magical lived their lives hiding in plain sight. They were everywhere in the non-magical world. Technology was not unfamiliar and used in cooperative with magic. There were still some towns that were purely magical and living in their traditional ways. Those were only the elders, while the younger generation took it as a sacred style of living and chose to return there after retirement of living their full lives in the modernity.

It was like the two faces of the same coins comparing the western and eastern magical communities. While the east went well into the twentieth century, the west remained just after the eighteenth. Mistress Fayra stressed that the SS would move itself more like the east. They would start changing and gathering more members without any restrictions, only that if the magical side of the community wanted to join in, they would need to be cleared of all prejudice and malice. The Evans land would be expanded and a new town settled in. The next gathering of the SS after Harry's return would decide more details. Morgana had expressed her agreement and would start presenting the idea after she introduced herself along with the Flamels in the coming gathering.

After the long discussion, they had dinner and Harry was led to his bedroom for the night.

-o0o-

March was about to end, the Dursleys were hosting another party for close family's friend again. Hermione and Justin spent their time chatting with Dudley, while the adults were talking over what they heard from Harry.

"So," Mr. Granger said at one point in their conversation, "in less than four months, Harry will be back and the Society will have some changes?"

"Indeed," replied Marge, "Aunt Penerelle will attend our next meeting. When is it again, Vernon?"

"Next Sunday," Vernon told her.

Their talk changed from the society to the children. The Grangers informed that Hermione was excited and felt ready to join the wizarding world in the coming year. The Finch-Fletchleys were having a second thought as Justin was accepted to attend the Eton, a prestige school. However, they did not want to rip the boy off his chance in life with magic either. It would be settled once he got his Hogwarts letter that their family would have a talk over the choices.

It was almost seven that evening that the journal signaled another entry. Everyone gathered in the living room at once. The Grangers and Finch-Fletchleys who were about to leave came back and join the Dursley. After reading the entry, they all parted way and looked forward to their next meeting.

-o0o-

End note: It has been 3 months. Sorry for the lateness. Life keeps popping more and more issues. I hope you enjoy this chapter. Till the next chapter, Holy Goodness, May your days be prosperous and safe.