Disclaimer: I do not own the Harry Potter universe. It belongs to J.K Rowling.
Chapter 13: A Meeting Of Fates.
Hog's Head, Hogsmeade.
31st July 1989:
Dumbledore's blue eyes twinkled with a newfound determination. He cleared his throat, the gentle sound cutting through the hushed atmosphere of the room, drawing the attention of everyone present.
"Charlus, Castor, Cassian, and Horace,"
Dumbledore began, his voice commanding attention, "I believe it is time for us to continue this discussion in a more private setting."
He gestured towards the corner of the room, where a seemingly unremarkable door stood, blending in with the rustic charm of the tavern's interior. The Potters and Slughorn exchanged curious glances, but without hesitation, they followed Dumbledore's lead. As they approached the unassuming door, it swung open with an almost magical grace, revealing a hidden staircase leading to the upper level of the Hog's Head.
The staircase seemed to spiral endlessly upward, shrouded in dim candlelight that flickered like stars guiding their way. The air was tinged with an enchanting aura as if the staircase itself held secrets and stories of ages past. Dumbledore ascended the stairs with a calm grace, and the others followed suit. The staircase seemed to shift and adjust, moulding itself to their presence as if recognizing the significance of the journey they were embarking upon. At the top of the stairs, another door stood tall, adorned with intricate carvings that seemed to dance with life as the candlelight brushed against them. This was the door to Dumbledore's brother's private room—an enclave of secrecy where profound conversations took place.
Dumbledore turned to face his companions, a glint of anticipation in his eyes. "Welcome to my brother Aberforth's room," he said, his voice imbued with reverence. "Within these walls, many secrets have been shared and decisions made that have shaped the course of history."
Charlus, Castor, Cassian, and Horace exchanged intrigued looks, their curiosity piqued by the mystical surroundings. As they stepped into the room, they were enveloped in an ambience that felt both ancient and timeless. The walls were adorned with tapestries and paintings, depicting scenes from distant lands and eras, each one carrying its own story. The room was illuminated by the soft glow of enchanted candles that floated in mid-air, casting dancing shadows upon the walls. The air was scented with a mix of ancient tomes and magical artefacts, creating an atmosphere that felt like stepping into the heart of a wizarding the centre of the room, a large wooden table stood, covered with scrolls and parchments, each one bearing a seal of secrecy. It was here that Dumbledore invited his guests to take a seat, their eyes wide with anticipation as they awaited the revelations that were to come.
"Castor, Cassian," Dumbledore began, his eyes crinkling with warmth as he addressed the younger generation, "I trust you both are well-settled in the United States? How are your sons and wives faring in the land of enchantment and possibilities?"
Castor, with his stoic demeanour that mirrored the old-world grace of his father, inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you for inquiring, Dumbledore. My son has taken to the American way of magical life with a sense of adventure and wonder. He has taken a liking for Curse Breaking. He is well worse in warding".
The flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows upon the walls, creating an enchanting ambience as the conversation between Dumbledore and Slughorn unfolded. The ornate fireplace crackled, emanating warmth that added to the inviting feel of the room. Dumbledore's eyes gleamed with curiosity as he inquired about Harry and Dudley's progress in magical theory and their understanding of wizarding culture.
"Horace, my dear friend," Dumbledore began, "I am eager to know how young Harry and Dudley are faring in their magical education. Have they been showing promise in their studies?"
Slughorn nodded, a pleased smile spreading across his face. "Ah, Albus, you'd be delighted to know that both boys are doing remarkably well. Harry, in particular, has quite a keen eye for details. He's not one to take answers at face value; he dissects everything and desires to know the 'how' and 'why' behind every magical phenomenon. His inquisitive nature and insatiable thirst for knowledge are truly admirable."
Dumbledore's eyes twinkled with pride as he listened to the description of young Harry. "Ah, a true Ravenclaw in the making," he mused, referring to the Hogwarts house known for its love of learning and intellectual pursuits.
Slughorn nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Albus. Harry may not be a prodigy, but his dedication and above-average intelligence more than makes up for it. He's a hardworking young lad with a penchant for seeking answers most thoroughly."
"And what of young Dudley?" Dumbledore asked, genuinely intrigued.
A fond expression crossed Slughorn's face as he spoke of Dudley. "Now, Dudley is quite a surprise, I must say. Despite his initial reservations about the magical world, he's surprisingly adept at grasping the concepts of magical theory. He seems to have an instinct for it as if he's attuned to the magical energy that surrounds him."
"Ah, a hidden talent, it seems," Dumbledore mused, his eyes gleaming with interest. "Yes, indeed," Slughorn agreed. "But what's even more surprising is his way with words. For a seven-year-old, he has a remarkable ability to charm and persuade others. It's almost as if he knows how to draw people in with his natural charisma."
Dumbledore chuckled softly. "Ah, a budding diplomat in our midst. How fascinating."
Slughorn nodded, his smile widening. "Precisely, Albus. Young Dudley has a way of making friends and forming connections effortlessly. He and Harry are incredibly close, more like brothers than cousins. They look out for one another and share a bond that goes beyond family ties.""And that, my dear Horace, is a testament to the power of love and friendship," Dumbledore said, his voice tinged with warmth.
As the conversation continued, Slughorn shared a peculiar remark made by Dudley during their discussions about history and the Statute of Secrecy. "You know, Albus," he said, "Dudley once asked why wizards and witches don't just use magic to overthrow non-magical folk. It seems that he's pondering about the power dynamics between magical and non-magical communities."
Flashback
In the quiet and unassuming house at 3 Privet Drive, a remarkable journey of magical discovery began for young Harry Potter and his cousin Dudley under the watchful eye of Horace Slughorn. The dusty old living room was transformed into an enchanting classroom, with books piled high on the coffee table and candles casting a soft glow over the room.
The first lesson for Harry and Dudley was not in wand-waving or potion-making but in the art of meditation. Slughorn believed that a calm and focused mind was the key to unlocking the true potential of magic. Sitting cross-legged on the floor, they learned to quiet their thoughts and connect with the magical energies that surrounded them.
"Clear your mind, young ones," Slughorn would instruct with a gentle smile. "Magic flows from within, and to harness its power, you must first find inner stillness."
At first, Dudley found it difficult to keep still, his restless nature getting the better of him. But with patient guidance from Slughorn and encouragement from Harry, he gradually learned to settle into a state of peaceful contemplation. As weeks passed, Dudley surprised himself by discovering a newfound sense of serenity and focus. With their minds attuned, Slughorn delved into the basics of magical theory. He taught them about the core principles of spellcasting, the importance of wand movements, and the intricacies of magical ingredients. The coffee table transformed into a canvas, with Harry and Dudley practising their wandwork with imaginary spells."You see, it's not just about waving your wand and saying the words," Slughorn explained. "Magic is an art, a dance between intent and action. Your wand is an extension of yourself, and every spell you cast is a reflection of your will."
As their magical knowledge expanded, Slughorn introduced them to the fascinating world of magical creatures. He would show them pictures and descriptions of various beasts and encourage them to observe their behaviours in nature.
"Understanding magical creatures is not just about memorizing facts," Slughorn said. "It's about developing empathy and respect for all creatures, big and small. Magic is intertwined with nature, and every living being plays a part in the delicate balance of our world."
Beyond magical theory, Slughorn also emphasized the importance of wandless magic, teaching them how to channel their magical energy without the aid of a wand. He believed that true mastery of magic lay in one's ability to harness their power with or without a wand, and he would often take them to the nearby park to practice in the open air.
Under Slughorn's guidance, Harry and Dudley flourished, each discovering their unique strengths and abilities. Harry's keen eye for detail and natural affinity for meditation made him a disciplined and focused learner. Dudley's instinctive understanding of magical theory, combined with his magnetic charm, made him a captivating student.
As their training progressed, Harry and Dudley's friendship deepened. They would spend countless hours together, sharing their excitement and frustrations, and supporting each other through the challenges of learning magic. Slughorn noticed the bond between them, and he knew that their connection would be a powerful force in their future endeavours.
In the heart of 3 Privet Drive, a magical journey was underway. Under the guidance of Horace Slughorn, Harry and Dudley were becoming skilled young wizards, discovering the wonder and complexity of the magical world. Their pre-Hogwarts education was not just about learning spells and potions, but about nurturing their spirits, understanding the interconnectedness of magic and nature, and embracing the values of empathy and respect.
Flashback ends
Dumbledore's eyes softened with understanding. "Ah, the innocence of a child's mind," he said. "Such questions are a natural part of their journey of understanding the world around them."
As Dumbledore delicately broached the topic, his voice carried a tone of concern and care.
"Charlus," Dumbledore began, "I hope you wouldn't mind if I inquired about your relationship with young Harry. It is only natural for me to wonder how you and your family are faring, given the circumstances."Charlus, however, did not respond as Dumbledore had hoped. His eyes narrowed with a hint of defiance, and his tone turned sharp.
"Now, now, Dumbledore," he retorted, "I am not one of your professors to be questioned. What I do with my family is my own business, and you'd do well to remember that."
Flashback
On a cold and crisp Christmas morning in 1981, Charlus Potter stood at the doorstep of Number 4 Privet Drive, his heart pounding with both anticipation and sorrow. As he gazed upon the small house, memories of his beloved son James flooded his mind. The sight of young Harry, who looked so much like James with Lily's vibrant green eyes, brought both comfort and pain.
The door creaked open, revealing Petunia and Vernon Dursley, who greeted Charlus with polite reserve. They had agreed to this meeting reluctantly, knowing that their son, Dudley, was indeed a wizard, unlike what they had initially believed. Still, they were curious about the magical world that their nephew, Harry, belonged to.
Charlus, with a warm smile and an air of authority, stepped inside the Dursley home. He was determined to impart his knowledge and wisdom upon them, to ensure that Harry's upbringing in the non-magical world would be as smooth as possible. He exchanged pleasantries with Petunia and Vernon, putting them at ease, and then delved into the intricacies of raising a magical child.
"Mr and Mrs Dursley," Charlus began, "I understand that this must be an overwhelming experience for you both. Adjusting to the presence of magic in your lives can be challenging, but rest assured, I am here to guide you through it."
He explained the basics of the magical world, the existence of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and the importance of nurturing Harry and Duddley's magical abilities. Petunia listened intently, absorbing every word, while Vernon nodded in agreement.
"It's crucial to provide a loving and supportive environment for Harry and Duddley," Charlus emphasized. "Encourage their curiosity and thirst for knowledge. Magic is a part of their life, and denying it would only cause them harm."
Petunia opened up about her initial struggles in caring for Harry after his parents' tragic demise. "It was tough at first," she admitted, her voice tinged with emotion. "But Harry is a resilient young lad. He's adjusting to this new life without his parents, and I try my best to be there for him."
She spoke of the extra time she devoted to Harry, realizing that he needed special attention and care. Surprisingly, Dudley, who had been rather boisterous before Harry's arrival, seemed to have quieted down in the presence of his cousin.
"Dudley has taken quite a liking to his cousin," Petunia said, a hint of surprise in her voice. "They have an unusual bond, and it's remarkable to see how Harry's presence has affected him."
As the conversation continued, Charlus imparted advice on how to nurture magical abilities and the importance of fostering a sense of wonder and imagination in Harry's upbringing. He encouraged them to allow Harry to explore his magical heritage and to instil in him a sense of responsibility and empathy. In the dimly lit living room of Number 4 Privet Drive, Charlus Potter and the Dursleys forged an unexpected connection. They were united by their love and concern for young Harry, despite their differences in the magical world. Charlus knew that this was just the beginning of a long journey, but he was determined to support Harry and his aunt and uncle in any way he could.
As Charlus Potter continued his conversation with the Dursleys inside Number 4 Privet Drive, he couldn't help but notice a curious mark on young Harry's forehead. A lightning-bolt-shaped scar, etched into his skin, seemed to shimmer faintly under the light.
Intrigued, Charlus gently reached out to touch the scar, but Harry flinched away, his green eyes filled with a mix of uncertainty and vulnerability. It was evident that the scar held deeper significance to the young boy, one that Charlus couldn't fully comprehend. Petunia, noticing Charlus's interest, spoke hesitantly, "That scar appeared the night... the night when You-Know-Who... when he..." Her voice trailed off, unable to find the words to describe the fateful night that changed their lives forever.
Charlus's heart sank as he realized the truth. The lightning scar was a mark of the past, a reminder of the dark events that had taken place on the night of Voldemort's attack. He knew the stories, but seeing the scar in person brought a surge of emotions he couldn't quite explain.
"I promise you, Harry," Charlus continued, his voice unwavering, "your parents loved you dearly, and their sacrifice will forever protect you. You have a place in the wizarding world, and we will be here to guide you every step of the way."
As Charlus spoke those words, he couldn't help but feel a profound connection to young Harry. He saw glimpses of James and Lily in him, not just in his physical appearance but also in the spark of determination in his eyes. The scar on Harry's forehead was like a magical symbol, a sign of resilience and hope. It represented the boy who lived, the one who had survived the most powerful dark wizard of all time. And as Charlus stood up, leaving the scar behind but carrying the memory in his heart, he knew that Harry Potter's journey was destined for greatness.
Outside the window, snowflakes continued to fall gently, blanketing the world in a quiet hush. The magic of the moment lingered in the air as if the universe itself acknowledged the significance of this meeting.
Flashback end
His words hung in the air like an unwelcome cloud. The room fell momentarily silent, and the flickering flames seemed to mirror the tension in the air. But Dumbledore, a master of understanding human emotions, remained composed. "I understand, Charlus," he said gently, "and I apologize if my curiosity seemed intrusive. You have my assurance that I respect your privacy."
Charlus's expression softened slightly, but there was still a hint of guardedness in his eyes. "We have agreed to stand together against Voldemort," he admitted, "but let it be known that it was not an easy decision. You are not the only one capable of manipulation, Dumbledore."
Dumbledore nodded solemnly, acknowledging Charlus's concerns. "Indeed, my old friend, the lines between good and evil can blur in times of great conflict. I understand that my actions may have raised doubts, but know that my intentions have always been for the greater good."
"I hope so," Charlus replied, his tone less combative. "But don't think for a moment that I am unaware of Harry's scar and its significance. I know what it represents, and I'll do everything in my power to protect my family."The gravity of Charlus's words hung heavy in the room. The flickering candlelight seemed to flicker in response as if even the magical flames sensed the weight of the conversation.
"I trust that you will, Charlus," Dumbledore said, his voice tinged with understanding. "Family is the most precious thing we have, and we must safeguard it."As the conversation continued, the atmosphere remained charged, but both men displayed mutual respect's perspectives.
Dumbledore and Charlus, two formidable figures in the wizarding world, were left to contemplate the paths they had chosen and the sacrifices they were willing to make.
In the end, the struggle between good and evil, between light and darkness, would always linger, but their shared determination to protect their loved ones would be the guiding light that led them forward. And as the last of the candles burned low, the echoes of their conversation faded into the night, leaving behind a profound sense of understanding and a glimmer of hope for a future that would be shaped by the choices they made.
Above the ornate fireplace, a mesmerizing portrait hung, capturing the essence of two enigmatic individuals whose legacies were shrouded in secrets and mystery. The painting depicted none other than Albus Dumbledore's late sister, Ariana Dumbledore, and the enigmatic Credence Barebone. Ariana stood with an ethereal beauty that seemed to transcend the boundaries of the canvas. Her silver-blonde hair cascaded like a moonlit waterfall, and her piercing blue eyes held a hint of ancient wisdom and lingering sorrow. The artist masterfully captured the depth of Ariana's emotions, making it almost feel as if her spirit resided within the brushstrokes.
Beside her, Credence emanated an enigmatic aura, his dark and tousled hair framing eyes that appeared to hold a thousand untold stories. There was an intensity in his gaze that drew one in as if his very presence demanded attention and held the key to unlock a realm of hidden knowledge. The enchanting background of the painting seemed alive, swirling with wisps of magic and stars that danced around Ariana and Credence. The canvas seemed to breathe with otherworldly energy as if the artist had managed to capture the very essence of the magical beings they portrayed.
As Dumbledore's gaze fell upon the painting, a rush of emotions swept through him. The memories of his dear sister, whose life had been marked by tragedy and mystery, resurfaced like a tender melody. And alongside her, the enigma of Credence.
The portrait seemed to come to life, Ariana's eyes holding a knowing glint as if she were privy to the secrets of the room and those gathered within. Credence's presence, on the other hand, exuded a sense of guarded curiosity, as if he, too, sought answers to the enigmas surrounding him. For those unaware of the story behind the painting, it was an exquisite portrayal of two captivating figures. Yet, for those acquainted with the intertwined destinies of Ariana and Credence, the painting held a deeper significance—a glimpse into the hidden chapters of Dumbledore's past, and a reflection of the intricacies that shaped his life.