Note: In another chapter of The Trickster, Harry just got a taste of what the future holds, and started with the next chapter as well. Constructive criticism is appreciated. Please, guys, inform me how I could have done it better. Guys if you want you can also support me on patr&eon. You can search for TheLegendofEye on pat-reon.
Baron's Pain
15, November 1991
After his nocturnal visits in his Astral form, his magical core began to strengthen gradually. Now, he could venture even further away from his physical body without any resistance pulling him back. With Amina guarding diligently, he felt assured of his physical self's safety.
His Astral wandering has helped him look at Hogwarts in a new perspective.
It was a sight of ethereal beauty, Hogwarts, a vast labyrinth of secrets waiting to be explored in the Astral Plane. The castle's corridors and grand staircases stretched out before Harry, familiar yet surreal, like a tapestry woven with memories.
As he glided through the halls, whispers and laughter from centuries past filled the air, wrapping around him like a haunting melody. Time seemed to lose its grip in this realm, and Harry felt an exhilarating sense of wonder and awe.
"Mystery, magic, and secrets," Harry mused to himself, reflecting on his escapades so far. "The astral plane is unlike anything I've ever experienced. But to delve deeper, I need guidance."
In the midst of his thoughts, an idea sparked within him. "Perhaps Baron knows more about the astral plane," he considered. "He's the only one who's aware of my ability. Maybe he can shed light on how I can learn more about this mysterious realm."
Recognizing the risks of venturing into the astral plane alone, Harry resolved to approach the formidable Baron. Persuading him to share his knowledge seemed like the most logical and safe path forward.
After their first encounter, Harry couldn't deny that the Baron was an imposing and potentially dangerous figure, as rumours suggested. However, there was no doubt about his immense knowledge and wisdom.
Curiosity led Harry to research more about the Bloody Baron. Born into nobility around 982, he was among the first generation of students taught by the original founders of Hogwarts.
Armed with this information, Harry's resolve solidified. He would seek out the Baron, knowing that the journey into the astral plane held the promise of unlocking the castle's deepest secrets and hidden truths. Hogwarts, a place that had already shaped his destiny, now beckoned him to explore its mysteries on an even higher plane of existence.
On his daily wandering, He also encountered Peeves the Poltergeist. Shuddering about that experience, he now tries to avoid him altogether.
###### Flashback #######
Harry's astral form glided gracefully through the dimly lit corridors of Hogwarts, the enchanting world of magic and mystery unfurling before his eyes. Yet, amidst the wonder, a mischievous voice disrupted the tranquillity, causing an involuntary shiver down his astral spine. It was none other than Peeves, the notorious poltergeist, who materialized before him, wild hair and eyes gleaming mischievously.
"Ah, a little ghostly visitor, are we?" Peeves taunted, clearly relishing the opportunity to stir up some commotion.
Unfazed by the poltergeist's antics, Harry introduced himself in a cautious yet determined manner. "It's me, Harry," he replied, firm in his purpose.
Ever the trickster, Peeves danced around Harry, finding delight in the novelty of this unexpected astral encounter. "Thought you Slytherins were afraid of a little fun!" he teased.
Harry stood his ground, unwavering in his intentions. "I'm not here for fun, Peeves. I'm... exploring."
A flicker of curiosity replaced Peeves' playful demeanour. "Exploring, eh? Hogwarts has plenty of secrets, and the astral plane is no exception! What's in it for you, Potty?" he sneered, adding a touch of scorn.
Harry's response was resolute and driven. "I want to learn about Hogwarts, Peeves. I am exploring the hidden secrets that lie within."
Seemingly intrigued, Peeves leaned in, a hint of malevolence lurking beneath his ghostly guise. "These halls can be dangerous if you aren't careful, Potty," he murmured, offering a rather ominous invitation. "If you want, I can show you."
For a moment, Harry hesitated, feeling a wave of caution wash over him. But he remained steadfast and declined Peeves' offer. "I think I am good. Thank you for your offer, Peeves," he replied, mustering confidence he didn't fully feel in the presence of the mischievous poltergeist.
An unsettling atmosphere hovered between them as Peeves edged closer, his demeanour exuding a sense of danger. "Do you want me to help you, Potter?" he inquired, his voice laced with malevolence.
Aware of the potential risks, Harry took a step back, carefully analyzing the unpredictable poltergeist. "I appreciate the gesture, but I'll manage on my own," he replied firmly.
In that moment, it was as if Peeves saw beyond the Slytherin bravado, sensing a sincerity in Harry's words. "Some secrets are better kept hidden, Potty," he advised cryptically.
Harry smiled knowingly. "I'll be sure to remember that," he said, a hint of amusement in his tone.
Just as swiftly as he appeared, Peeves disappeared into thin air, leaving Harry to continue his astral exploration. The poltergeist's warning served as a reminder of the challenges that lay ahead, even within this enigmatic otherworldly plane.
Undeterred, Harry pushed forward, emboldened by the journey of discovery he had embarked upon. The secrets of Hogwarts beckoned, and he was determined to unravel their mysteries, navigating through the astral realm with courage and an unyielding desire to learn about the magical world he has just discovered.
###### Flashback Ends #######
With newfound determination, Harry made his decision. He would seek out the Bloody Baron and request his guidance on the astral plane. Whatever the outcome, he knew that this journey into the mysterious realm would be a crucial step in his quest. This would be something which will give him the edge, he needed again any future adversaries.
As he navigated through the luminous halls, he began to feel a strange pull, as if being drawn towards a particular presence. Guided by an instinct he couldn't explain, Harry followed the invisible trail, the tides of magic leading him to a secluded chamber bathed in a silvery glow.
There, standing tall and imposing, was the figure of the Bloody Baron. Clad in heavy chains that clinked softly as he moved, the ghostly form exuded an air of solemnity. Harry couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and trepidation at the sight of the legendary spirit.
The Bloody Baron's piercing eyes locked onto Harry's astral form, and though he did not speak, his gaze seemed to convey a profound understanding. Harry sensed a depth of knowledge and experience within the spectral figure, as if the Baron had existed for ages and had witnessed the ebb and flow of time.
Uncertain of how to proceed, Harry hesitated for a moment before gathering his courage and speaking up.
"Baron, I seek your guidance," Harry ventured, his voice steady but filled with respect. "The astral plane is a realm of magic and mystery, and I know that you possess knowledge of its secrets."
The Baron remained silent for a moment, his spectral countenance inscrutable. Then, with a solemn nod, he spoke in a voice that seemed to echo from time immemorial, "Indeed, young one. The astral plane is a realm of balance and chaos, a place where the boundaries of reality and imagination intertwine. What you seek is not easily attained, but with the right guidance, you may find the answers you seek."
Harry's determination surged, undeterred by the Baron's warning. "I am willing to learn, to be disciplined," he affirmed with unwavering resolve. "The threat posed by my adversaries is real, and everything I hold dear hangs in the balance. If the astral plane holds knowledge that can aid me in this battle, I am determined to unlock its hidden truths."
The Baron regarded him solemnly, and at that moment, Harry sensed an unspoken bond forming between them. The weight of responsibility hung heavily in the air as the Baron intoned, "Very well, young one. I can offer you guidance in your journey through the astral plane. But remember, this realm demands respect and humility. Only by approaching it with reverence can you hope to harness its power. And you must also know that my guidance is not free."
Without hesitation, Harry met the Baron's gaze. "Baron, if you choose to help me, I promise to aid you in any way I can," he said earnestly.
The Baron's voice echoed with a heavyweight, tinged with sorrow. "For you to learn from me, you must help me find atonement for my sins."
"If your atonement is the price, then I shall do my utmost to guide you towards peace and redemption," he affirmed with firm resolve.
The Baron's voice echoed with a heavy burden of sorrow as he responded, "Atonement is what I seek, and it is not a task to be taken lightly. My past sins weigh heavily on my soul."
Harry blinked in surprise, uncertain of what the Baron meant. "Sins?" he asked, a mix of confusion and concern filling his astral heart.
"Yes," the Baron replied, his voice tinged with remorse. "Long ago, I committed grave sins with Helena Ravenclaw, the daughter of Hogwarts' founder, Rowena Ravenclaw. My actions caused her to flee, and when I tracked her down in Albania, in a moment of rage, I took her life before taking my own."
Harry's heart sank like a stone as he absorbed the weight of the Baron's confession. The tragic fate of Helena Ravenclaw, entwined with the haunting role the Baron played in it, echoed in his mind. The weight of the past and the burden of remorse cast a sombre shadow over their encounter in the ethereal realm.
The Baron continued, his voice laden with sorrow and regret. "To learn from me, you must help me find a path to atonement for the terrible deeds I committed. Only then can our souls find peace, and I can impart the knowledge you seek."
For a moment, silence hung heavy in the astral plane. Harry realized the gravity of the Baron's request, the burden he carried for centuries. He knew the importance of redemption, not just for the Baron's sake, but for the healing of two souls tormented by their past.
"I will do my best," Harry vowed, his voice carrying genuine empathy. "Helping you find atonement is a journey I'm willing to embark on. We'll seek answers together."
The Baron's spectral form seemed to soften, the chains around him appearing to lose some of their weight. "Thank you," he whispered, a sense of gratitude evident in his tone. "I shall teach you what you seek, but only after our souls find solace in redemption."
As the weight of the Baron's confession settled upon Harry, he felt a mix of sorrow and empathy for the tragic tale that had unfolded in the distant past. However, before he could fully process the gravity of the situation, the Baron spoke once more, revealing the identity of the lost soul that haunted Hogwarts.
"Grey Lady," the Baron said, his voice carrying a sombre tone. "The ghost that roams the corridors of Hogwarts, she is Helena Ravenclaw."
The revelation struck Harry like a bolt of lightning. The mysterious and enigmatic Grey Lady, the ghost of Ravenclaw, whom he had seen during the Sorting Ceremony, was none other than the daughter of Rowena Ravenclaw herself.
For a moment, Harry's mind raced with the implications of this revelation. The connection between the Baron's haunting past and the ghostly presence that lingered within the castle's walls now became clear. Helena Ravenclaw's spirit had been condemned to wander as the Grey Lady, burdened by the weight of her own tragic story.
Realizing that he had a new mission, filled with a sense of yearning to right the wrongs of the past, Harry vowed to search tirelessly for the Grey Lady. He knew that within the astral plane and beyond, he would seek the elusive spirit and endeavour to bring her back to the Baron.
16, November 1991
The night had been long and arduous for Harry as he tirelessly scoured the astral plane in search of Helena Ravenclaw. The first light of dawn crept into the mystical realm, but Harry's efforts had yielded no results. He felt a deep sense of frustration and weariness, but he was not ready to give up.
As the sun rose, Harry returned to the physical world, rejoining his friends Daphne and Tracey at the breakfast table in the Great Hall. He tried to hide the exhaustion that weighed upon him, not wanting to give away the secret of his astral journeys and the Baron's request for redemption.
"Good morning, Harry," Daphne greeted with a smile, her eyes searching him in a more careful manner.
"Morning," Harry replied, forcing a small smile in return. He knew he had to be careful not to raise suspicion.
Tracey, always perceptive, noticed something amiss. "You look like you didn't get much sleep," she remarked.
Harry shrugged, attempting to brush off the concern. "Just had a lot on my mind, that's all."
Daphne exchanged a knowing glance with Tracey, both sensing that there was more to Harry's tired demeanour. However, they respected his privacy and didn't pry further.
As they began eating breakfast, Harry tried to steer the conversation away from himself. "So, any plans for today?" he asked, hoping to change the subject.
Daphne took the bait, talking about an upcoming study session they had scheduled in the library. Tracey chimed in, mentioning recent Quidditch leagues she wanted to discuss with him.
Amidst the chatter, Harry's mind was still preoccupied with the weight of his mission. He knew he couldn't carry this burden alone, and involving his friends might be the key to finding Helena and the diadem. But he also needed to protect the Baron's secret, for it was not his to share.
"I have a confession." Harry started, sincerity in his voice. " I trust you both more than anyone but there are secrets I must keep for now to protect someone's past."
Daphne and Tracey exchanged concerned glances but nodded in understanding. "Whatever you're going through, Harry, we're here for you," Daphne assured him.
"Absolutely," Tracey added. "Don't worry we don't pry on secrets that are not yours to tell. So…. What gives?"
Harry felt a sense of relief wash over him as he knew he could rely on his friends' support. They might not know the full scope of his mission, but their trust and understanding meant the world to him.
"Listen, guys," he began, his tone earnest, "I've been doing some research, but I need to find Grey Lady for this."
"The Grey Lady?" Tracey asked, her brow furrowing in thought. "The ghost of Ravenclaw House?"
Harry nodded. "Exactly. I can't go into all the details just yet, but I'm convinced that finding her is crucial."
Daphne and Tracey exchanged a glance, their expressions serious. They knew Harry well enough to understand that he wouldn't bring this up without good reason.
"So, what do you suggest we do?" Daphne inquired, her voice soft but determined.
"We need to start with gathering the whereabouts of the Grey Lady," Harry replied, relieved that he could discuss the general plan without revealing the Baron's request or the diadem's significance.
"I can ask around, see if anyone knows where she hangs out," Tracey offered.
"And I'll also see what I can do," Daphne chimed in.
Harry smiled gratefully, touched by their unwavering support. "Thank you, both of you. This is going to be a tough task, but I know we can handle it together."
30, November 1991
After what felt like an eternity of searching, Harry received a valuable lead from Daphne, who mentioned that the Grey Lady tended to frequent the astronomy towers and occasionally lingered near the Ravenclaw tower ridge.
As night fell, armed with this newfound information, Harry ventured once more into the depths of the astral plane in search of the elusive Helena Ravenclaw. A mix of trepidation and hope filled his heart as he approached her spectral form, knowing that the knowledge she possessed might hold the key to aiding the Baron in finding redemption.
"Um, Helena," Harry began, his voice wavering slightly with nervousness and empathy, "I, …, I really, really want to help the Baron. He feels sad about things he did in the past. Can you please find it in your heart to, you know, help him?"
The Grey Lady regarded Harry with a distant gaze, her ethereal presence carrying an air of sorrow. "Foolish boy," she replied with a sigh, her voice filled with regret, "I have wandered for, like, centuries, feeling so heavy with the choices I made in life. I, like, don't even know if redemption is possible for that, you know, traitorous bastard or me."
Harry's determination remained unyielding as he urged Helena to consider helping the Baron. "The Baron, he, too, carries the weight of his actions. But, you know, if we work together, maybe we can find a way to heal his heart. Please, Helena, just, um, think about it."
For a moment, Helena hesitated, her ethereal form flickering with uncertainty. It seemed like she was wrestling with her own doubts and fears. Then, with a sigh, she relented and began to share her painful tale. "Another student, like you, once, you know, approached me," she said, her voice tinged with sorrow. "I, um, trusted him, and he betrayed me."
Harry felt the weight of Helena's past pain, but he couldn't let that deter him. "I'm, um, really sorry for what he did, but I promise, I'm not him. My plea to help you and the Baron is genuine."
Helena seemed to consider Harry's words, her spectral presence wavering slightly. Finally, she spoke, her voice filled with emotion. "Tom Riddle, you know, he came to me. He told me he searched for the diadem and wanted to help me. I got trapped by his honeyed words. But..."
Her voice broke, and she struggled to continue, "He betrayed me, after finding the diadem. He desecrated it. The diadem, I cherished my last connection to my mother. He... he..." Helena couldn't hold back her tears as she sobbed, overwhelmed by the memories of her painful past.
"I'm so sorry that happened to you, Helena," Harry said gently, his heart going out to her. " What did he do with the diadem?" but careful not to push too much.
"He, um, he turned it into something dark, something, you know, evil," Helena replied, her voice heavy with regret. "I didn't realize, like, what he had done until much later."
Harry's mind raced with the implications of this revelation. The diadem had been a subject of his search for a long time, and now he knew its true significance. "Tell me where it is," he implored, "I will find it and try to undo this."
Helena's gaze softened, and she seemed to consider Harry's plea. "You are relentless, much like the Baron in his pursuit of redemption," she remarked. "Very well, I shall reveal the diadem's hiding place, but remember, undoing something like that will not be easy."
Determined to right the wrongs of the past, Harry nodded with resolve. "I understand, Helena. But we must try."
Helena nodded in agreement, her sorrowful gaze meeting Harry's. "The diadem is hidden in a place that holds great significance to me, a miracle of my mother's making, her real legacy." she began. "It rests within the Room of Requirement, concealed amidst the countless lost objects it houses."
Harry absorbed the information, knowing that the Room of Requirement was a place that adapted to the needs of those who sought it. Finding the diadem amidst the vast collection of items would be a daunting task, but he was prepared for the challenge.
With gratitude, Harry thanked Helena for her help. "I promise, we'll do everything in our power to find the diadem and undo the darkness that has befallen it," he vowed.
Helena's ghostly form flickered with a hint of a smile, appreciating Harry's determination. "I can sense the, um, sincerity in your words," she said softly. "May your unwavering spirit guide you in your quest, young one."
As Harry bid farewell to Helena, he knew that the road ahead would be fraught with challenges. Yet, he felt more resolute than ever in his mission.
Next day
With a sense of anticipation and a flicker of excitement, Harry stood before the trolls' tapestry, the spot where he believed the entrance to the Room of Requirement lay. Channelling his magical energy, he projected his impression of need—his deep desire to locate the diadem and find redemption for the Baron. As he did so, the concealed door materialized, revealing the entrance to the elusive room.
Stepping inside, Harry sensed an unusual aura in the air, It was enough to raise Amina from her magical slumber.
"This room feels saturated with magic, I think it may have a degree of consciousness," said Amina, rising from his sleeve. "Better be safe, try to project your raw need."
"Room," he spoke softly but firmly, addressing the magical space directly, "I seek the lost diadem of Ravenclaw, which was hidden here by Tom Riddle."
"Harry stop! if Helena is right then this item would be dangerous. Be careful in your words".
Harry nodded, realizing that he was dealing with a mysterious and sentient magical space.
"Room," he continued, "I seek the diadem of Ravenclaw, hidden by Tom Riddle in a container that will not harm anyone. Please guide me to it and help me uncover the path to redemption for those who seek it."
In response, the room came alive with subtle energy, almost as if it understood Harry's plea. Mysterious doorways materialized before him, leading him on a winding journey through a labyrinth of lost items and concealed spaces. It was as if the room itself had a mind of its own, responding to his thoughts and intentions, guiding him toward his quest with uncanny intelligence.
With each step he took, Harry felt a deepening connection to the room, as though their destinies were intertwined. He could sense that the answers he sought lay within these magical walls, waiting to be discovered. As he continued his exploration, he arrived at yet another towering pile of items, but this time, a faint dark aura emanated from it, drawing his attention like a neon sign beckoning him forward.
There, amidst the countless objects, he spotted the diadem resting on a rack, nearly concealed but not entirely hidden. A surge of relief washed over him as he recognized the sought-after artefact. Yet, he approached it with caution, acutely aware of the immense danger it once posed as one of Tom Riddle's dark experiments.
"Harry, this magical aura seems familiar to me," Amina said after a moment of thoughtful consideration. "Oh yes, this is the same foreign parasitical aura that was attached to your core."
Realization dawned upon Harry, and he nodded, understanding the potential peril. "It seems to be the same case here," Amina continued. "You better handle this with some protection, like a glove or something."
As if in response to her suggestion, the Room of Requirement highlighted a nearby rack that held an old, yet usable, glove. Harry wasted no time and put on the protective glove before carefully taking the diadem into his hands.
As he held the diadem in his gloved hands, he couldn't help but think of the Baron and the heavy burden he carried, seeking redemption for his own past actions. The diadem, once tainted by dark magic, now rested in his grasp as a potent symbol of their shared journey towards healing and atonement.
With a deep breath, Harry turned his thoughts back to the present. Now that he had secured the diadem, he felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination.
With the diadem secured, Harry made his way back through the labyrinth of lost treasures, following the room's guidance once more.
As he left the Room of Requirement, diadem in hand, he couldn't help but feel a profound darkness that had plagued the diadem.
After a moment of consideration, instead of heading to his dorm, Harry decided to take the diadem to his private training room.
Once inside, he locked the door securely. Placing the diadem on a table, he settled onto the farthest sofa.
With deliberate focus, he began to enter a meditative state, allowing himself to drift into the astral plane. Using his familiarity with the Baron's and Helena's astral signatures, he swiftly located them and brought them into the training room.
In the astral realm, the Baron appeared, carrying an aura of remorse for his past actions. But he also wore a glimmer of hope, knowing that Harry's efforts might lead him towards redemption. Helena Ravenclaw stood beside him, her spectral presence radiating both curiosity and caution.
Baron's gaze met Helena's, and he greeted her with a hint of shame and humility. "Helena, it has been so long," he said softly, his voice tinged with regret.
Helena regarded him with a mix of emotions, yet there was a flicker of forgiveness in her eyes. "Indeed, Baron," she replied, her voice carrying the weight of centuries of wandering. "Your journey has been filled with struggles, as has mine."
Harry watched the exchange, sensing the complex history between the two spirits. He knew that their paths were irrevocably linked by the mistakes of the past and the redemption they both sought.
"H-Helena," Harry began, his voice gentle yet resolute, "Can you please confirm, is this your mother's diadem?" Directing toward the diadem that rested on the table.
Helena's features softened, and her eyes seemed to shine with a glimmer of hope. "Yes," she replied, her voice holding a mix of emotions. "This is my mother's precious diadem."
As they both focused on the diadem, the Baron's spectral presence joined them. His gaze sharpened, and a shadow of sorrow passed over his features. "It is more than just a diadem," the Baron spoke gravely. "It is a Horcrux, the dirtiest form of necromancy, a piece of soul tethered to this object to ensure the soul's immortality."
Harry's heart sank at the revelation, horrified at the Horcrux. Dealing with such dark magic required great care and courage. "How do we, um, deal with it?" Harry asked, turning his attention to the Baron.
The Baron's ethereal form seemed to darken with solemnity. "To destroy a Horcrux, one must use the most powerful forms of magic," he explained. "The object needs to be harmed beyond magical repair, rendering the piece of soul within it vulnerable. Only then can it be destroyed using, um, powerful and rare magical means, like Basilisk venom or Fiendfyre."
Harry nodded, taking in the gravity of their task. But a thought crossed his mind, and he spoke with curiosity, "Can we just destroy the soul piece without destroying the container?"
The Baron's ghostly expression shifted, contemplating Harry's question. "It is possible," he replied, "but it requires delicate and precise magic. One must separate the piece of soul from the object without causing harm to the container. It's a highly advanced technique, but I believe there is a way."
He continued, "There exists a rare branch of magic known as 'Soul Extraction.' It allows a skilled wizard to extract a fragment of soul from its host object while leaving the container unharmed. However, such magic is exceedingly perilous and demands extraordinary control over one's magic and emotions."
Harry absorbed the information, realizing the complexity of the task ahead. "If we can extract the soul piece without harming the diadem, it would be a safer option," he remarked, considering the possibilities.
The Baron nodded, acknowledging the potential benefit of this alternate method. "Indeed, it would protect the diadem from further damage and preserve its integrity," he agreed. "But remember, Harry, attempting Soul Extraction carries its own dangers. One must be prepared to confront the darkness within the Horcrux."
Harry's determination flared as he fully grasped the risks involved. He understood the weight of his decisions, realizing that their journey required not only courage but also sacrifices. "If there's a chance to save the diadem," he said firmly, addressing the Baron, "can you guide me on how to destroy the piece of Voldemort's soul within it?"
The Baron nodded solemnly, acknowledging the gravity of the task ahead. "For now, lock this container away," he advised. "When I believe you are adequately prepared, we shall handle it together."
Helena, too, chimed in with a sense of willingness to help. "I would also love to teach you, Harry," she said softly. "You've already shown immense dedication by seeking to cleanse the diadem rather than resorting to destruction. I would be honoured to instruct you in the ancient ways of charms and enchantment."
Harry felt a surge of gratitude towards the Baron and Helena. They were willing to share their knowledge and experiences with him, recognizing his genuine commitment to redeeming the diadem. With their guidance, he knew he would be better equipped to confront the darkness that plagued it.
"Thank you," Harry said sincerely.
That is it for today guys, now Harry has a taste of future confrontation, let's see what new adventure, he will encounter. Some major plot in development.
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