Disclaimer: Playing in Rowling's and Lucas's sandbox. They own the toys; We're just having fun.
Previously on Chapter 4
He felt a surge of magical energy building within him, an uncontrollable release of power as his emotions reached a boiling point. A guttural scream tore through the air as the weight of his world came crashing down. In that moment, overwhelmed by the revelation, Harry's vision blurred, and he crumpled to the floor, consciousness slipping away.
'Dragonstaff and Technomage' - Thoughts
Chapter 5: Promises
Harry groaned, feeling the haze of unconsciousness lifting. His eyes fluttered open and he found himself lying down on a strange bed in a room with what looked like various machines strewed around. A slight humming in the background only added to the unfamiliar atmosphere of the place. He attempted to sit up, his head pounding with each heartbeat.
"Did anyone get the name of the hippogriff that trampled over me?" Harry mumbled, his voice laced with sarcasm. He squinted, trying to make sense of his surroundings. The soft hum of machinery and the faint glow from the door.
C3PO bustled over with an air of delight. "Oh, Master Harry, I'm so pleased you've regained consciousness! Master Anakin will be thrilled to hear the good news." The golden protocol droid hurriedly moved away, signalling to Anakin that Harry had finally awoken.
As Harry took stock of his surroundings, the unfamiliar setting of the spaceship slowly came into focus. He couldn't help but remember the events leading to his unconsciousness — Anakin's story, R2D2's revelation and the subsequent shock which knocked him out.
As Harry put on his glasses, his gaze inevitably landed on Anakin, who was now approaching him. The man with the scar across his eye and an aura of both intensity and carefree defiance. Anakin's peculiar way of carrying himself was a strange blend of confidence and nonchalance and it stirred memories of another figure from Harry's past—Sirius Black.
Yet, Harry knew that Anakin was an enigma, a puzzle with missing pieces. The scar spoke of battles fought and challenges overcome, but the details remained shrouded. Despite the stories shared, Harry couldn't shake the realisation that he barely knew this man who had stepped into his life, bringing tales of galaxies far, far away.
Amidst the chaos of conflicting information, Harry felt an unspoken bond with the stranger, 'Anakin'. Their lives seemed to parallel each other, creating a strange companionship that defied the boundaries of their vastly different worlds.
Yet, beneath the surface of connection and curiosity, a lingering wariness persisted. Harry, a jaded 16-year-old , having faced his share of dangers and betrayals couldn't dismiss the nagging voices in the back of his head. Anakin was a character from another realm, a blend of myth and reality that challenged the very foundations of Harry's understanding.
Anakin approached Harry, his expression a mix of concern and relief. "Hey there. How are you feeling?" he inquired, genuine worry etched in his eyes. "I have to admit, I was a bit scared when you passed out. I caught you before you hit the ground, but you just wouldn't wake up. Figured it was best to let you sleep it off. Are you okay?"
Harry's response was a heavy sigh. "I don't know how or what to feel. My godfather died protecting me while I ran after a prophecy which might just have been a fake, because I believed in something that might not even be real. Voldemort and his Death Eaters took away the last person who ever truly loved me and right now, I just want to leave this place and NEVER look back!"
Anakin listened to Harry's outpouring of frustration and pain, his own desire to leave the planet resonating with the young wizard's sentiments. "Harry, I might be able to help. Your magic... while it may not be the Force, it is something very similar and I can probably teach you to harness it, use it. And in return, maybe you could help me."
He continued, "My ship, it's not ready for a journey back to Naboo. It's broken down, and we have no idea how to traverse the universe. We'd literally need to go to another galaxy. But if you come with me, we could figure it out together. I know it's a lot to take in, but we could help each other. What do you say?"
As the offer to leave it all behind and embark on a new adventure with Anakin hung in the air, conflicting emotions tugged at Harry's core. The prospect of learning something entirely different, especially from someone who seemed to grasp the intricacies of his unique magical abilities, stirred a spark of excitement within him. A chance to escape the burdens and traumas that plagued his life, to leave behind the betrayals and heartbreaks he'd experienced—there was a strange allure to it.
Yet, as Harry weighed the decision, his thoughts turned to the friends who had stood by him, the bonds forged through shared challenges and triumphs. Neville, Luna, Fred, George—their unwavering loyalty echoed in his mind. Neville with his quiet confidence, Luna and her eccentric outlook of the world, Fred and George's pranks and jokes livening up the dullest of days.
However, he couldn't also ignore the persistent reality which haunted him. Ron and Hermione, his closest friends, had seemingly turned their backs on him again. The trust that once bound the Golden Trio together now lay fractured irrevocably. Despite this, Harry found solace in the knowledge that there were others who needed him. The innocents caught in the crossfire, the potential victims of Voldemort's wrath—he could not abandon them.
"Anakin," Harry began, his voice carrying the weight of conflicting emotions, "I appreciate the offer, truly. The idea of starting anew is tempting, but I can't leave right now. There are people here who need me. I can't stand by and let innocent lives be torn apart. It's just not in me to choose personal freedom over the Greater Good." The resolve in his words reflected the core of Harry's character, a willingness to sacrifice his own desires for the well-being of others.
Anakin listened to Harry's words with a sense of understanding etched across his features. The burden of destiny, the weight of responsibility—it resonated deeply with the former Jedi Knight. He nodded in silent acknowledgment of the choice Harry had made, recognizing the echoes of his own struggles in the young wizard's resolve.
"I get it, Harry," Anakin replied, his voice carrying a depth of empathy. "We all carry our own burdens, our destinies. It's not an easy path. But my offer still stands. While I repair my ship, maybe I can show you a few things about the Force. It's not exactly like your magic, but there are similarities. And, if you're willing, I can help you carry this burden you're shouldering."
Anakin's gaze held a mixture of sincerity and understanding. He extended a hand, not just as a mentor but as someone who had walked the edge of darkness himself. "I've been close to the Dark Side, Harry. I have felt its pull. Maybe this is my chance at redemption. Helping you, standing against whatever this Voldemort is, might just be the way I forge my own path."
There was a genuine offer in his words, an offer to share the weight which Harry had borne alone for so long and face the challenges which lay ahead together.
Harry's eyes reflected a mix of anguish and determination as he shook his head. "I appreciate the offer, Anakin. I really do. But I can't let more people get hurt or die to protect me. I've seen too much of that already. Sirius... he died because of me, because of my stupidity. I can't bear to see anyone else suffer because of who I am."
His voice wavered with a raw emotion, a flood of grief and guilt breaking through. The weight of loss, the pain of betrayal, and the burden of responsibility—all converged in that moment, making his refusal a desperate plea to spare others from the consequences of his existence.
Anakin's expression softened, "I get it, Harry. Losing someone you care about, especially when you feel responsible, it's a pain that cuts deep. But sometimes, destiny has a way of throwing things at us that we can't avoid. I've been there, on the brink of darkness, manipulated by the promise of power."
A half-smile played on Anakin's lips, a mix of determination and a hint of mischief. "I'm going to help you, Harry, whether you like it or not. We'll find a way to make things right, together."
Harry's small smile carried a glimmer of hope, a flicker in the midst of the darkness that had settled within him. Anakin's words, a promise of understanding and support, seemed to pierce through the shadows, and for the first time since the events of the Ministry, a sense of relief washed over Harry. Maybe, just maybe, he had found someone who truly understood him, someone he could trust.
Harry stretches his limbs, feeling the weariness settle into his bones. As he looks out of the spaceship's window, he notices the sun hanging high in the sky, signalling the lateness of the day. The realisation hits him—he has been away for quite some time, and Dumbledore would likely have people watching over him. He needed to return to Privet Drive before the day ended.
"I need to get back to the Dursleys. Dumbledore's got his watchers, and if I'm not there when they expect me, it'll make things a lot complicated. I do not want to face Dumbledore right now", Harry explained to Anakin as he hurried out of the bed he was sitting in.
Anakin shifted uncomfortably, a frown creasing his forehead. "Going back to those Dursleys doesn't sit well with me, Harry. They don't seem like the most welcoming people. Is there any way around it?"
Harry shook his head, his expression resigned. "I wish there was, Anakin, but Dumbledore has his ways of keeping tabs on me. If I'm not back at the Dursleys' on time, he'll send a search party for me, and that's the last thing I need right now."
Anakin sighed in resignation. "Alright, Harry. If that's how it has to be, then I'm not letting you face whatever mess awaits you alone. I'll come with you to this, uh, Privet Drive."
Harry shook his head, a hint of frustration in his voice. "Look, I appreciate the offer, but I can handle myself. I've faced worse than the Dursleys. I need to do this by myself."
Anakin shook his head, a determined look on his face. "I've seen too much to let someone face their demons alone. Besides, it seems like I've got a knack for getting involved in other people's problems. So, Privet Drive it is."
Harry sighed, realising he couldn't argue Anakin out of his decision. The sincerity in Anakin's eyes touched him, and for the first time since Sirius's death, he felt someone genuinely caring for his well-being. "Alright, but we need to be careful. The Dursleys aren't exactly the welcoming type."
Harry pulled out his invisibility cloak from his pocket and handed it to Anakin. "Wear this. It'll make you invisible. Take C3PO with you. I don't need Dumbledore or his watchers seeing you just yet."
Anakin looked at the silvery piece of cloth, his eyes confused.
"Well, go ahead! Put it on!" Harry egged him on, finally a hint of a smile on his face.
He followed Harry's instructions and draped the slippery material over himself, wrapping it around his shoulders.
C3PO's circuits went haywire, and in a series of broken dialogues, he exclaimed, "Oh dear! Master Anakin, where did your body go? This is most irregular! In all my years, I have never encountered such a peculiar situation. R2-D2, are you experiencing this peculiar anomaly as well? Oh, my goodness!"
R2-D2's beeps and whistles joined the cacophony, expressing sheer confusion.
Harry couldn't help but smirk at the chaotic scene, while Anakin, almost holding back laughter, muttered, "Welcome to the wizarding world, C3PO."
Anakin removed the cloak, his eyes widening in amazement. He ran his fingers over the fabric, a look of fascination on his face. "This is incredible. A cloak that can make you invisible? How in the name of all that is the Force is this possible," he remarked, his tone filled with genuine awe.
Harry said to Anakin, his expression serious. "This is an heirloom from my father. It's one of the few things I have that connects me to my parents. Please be careful with it," he said, a note of sincerity in his voice. As he stepped out of the ship, he gestured for Anakin to follow him back to Privet Drive.
As Harry approached 4, Privet Drive, the familiar sense of dread settled over him. The cold, sterile facade of the Dursleys' home loomed ahead. Anakin and C3PO followed him, both hidden under the invisibility cloak. The neighbourhood was eerily quiet, with only the distant hum of occasional passing cars breaking the silence.
Harry kept a steady pace, his steps echoing in the empty streets. Anakin, navigating the cloak's invisibility with a mix of awe and amusement, followed closely. C3PO, still adjusting to the experience, stumbled occasionally, muttering confused comments.
As they reached the doorstep, Harry hesitated. The memories of his previous summers at Privet Drive flooded back, each more unpleasant than the last. He took a deep breath, readying himself for whatever awaited him inside. Anakin, though unseen, could sense the tension radiating from Harry.
With a nod from Harry, Anakin and C3PO remained concealed as they entered the Dursleys' house. The familiar scent of cleanliness and disdain greeted them, and the dimly lit living room appeared unchanged. Dudley's diet pamphlets still littered the coffee table, and Aunt Petunia was engrossed in a television program about perfectly trimmed hedges.
Dudley's sudden appearance startled both Harry and Anakin, momentarily breaking the tension. The rotund boy stared wide-eyed at Harry, his piggy eyes narrowing in recognition. With a triumphant grin, Dudley bellowed, "Mom! The freak's back!"
Aunt Petunia, ever the epitome of poise, turned her attention away from the television, her eyes narrowing at Harry. "What have you done now, boy?" she snapped, as if his mere presence was a disturbance to her perfect suburban existence. "And where were you last night?"
Harry sighed, the familiar tone of accusatory questioning ringing in his ears. "Just out," he replied vaguely, not in the mood to provide details.
Before Aunt Petunia's interrogation could continue, a voice echoed from the kitchen. "What's all this racket about?" Uncle Vernon emerged, a newspaper tucked under his arm, his bushy moustache twitching with annoyance.
Dudley pointed dramatically at Harry, still revelling in the opportunity to play the victim. "He's back, Dad! The freak is back!"
Uncle Vernon's face turned a shade of purple that matched his tie. "What nonsense is this, boy? Explain yourself!"
Anakin's anger simmered beneath the surface as he witnessed the Dursleys berate Harry with their usual venom. The insults, accusations, and condescending remarks fueled the fire within him. The constant belittling of Harry, who had already faced so much, became unbearable.
Finally, unable to contain his fury any longer, Anakin abruptly tore off the invisibility cloak, revealing himself to the Dursleys. The room seemed to shudder with the sudden shift in atmosphere. Anakin's eyes burned with an unnatural intensity as he addressed the Dursleys with a single question, his tone filled with a mix of menace and arrogance. "Miss me?"
The effect was immediate. The Dursleys, already taken aback by Harry's reappearance, were now faced with the same man who had tormented them the day before. Dudley's triumphant grin faded, replaced by a look of genuine fear. He squeaked, and tried to unsuccessfully hide his large body behind his thin mother. Petunia's poised facade crumbled, and Vernon, usually the epitome of bluster, found himself at a loss for words.
The kitchen fell into a stunned silence, broken only by Anakin's heavy breathing and the distant hum of the television in the living room. The balance of power in the Dursley household had shifted, and Anakin, with his unyielding gaze, made it clear that he would not tolerate any more mistreatment of Harry.
Vernon, attempting to regain control, sputtered out a feeble protest, but Anakin's stern glare silenced him. The room was plunged into a tense silence as Anakin, without a word, ignited his lightsaber, casting an otherworldly glow across the kitchen. The blade's hum filled the air, resonating with an energy that seemed to demand respect.
Uncle Vernon's blustering words faltered into terrified silence. Dudley, usually the instigator of the family's bullying, recoiled in fear. Even Aunt Petunia, who had maintained a façade of disdain, now stared wide-eyed at the radiant lightsaber.
Anakin, his lightsaber still humming with restrained power, turned his gaze towards Harry. "Lead the way," he said in a low voice. Harry, appreciating the intervention, guided Anakin through the narrow corridor and up the stairs to his small room. The Dursleys, still recovering from the shock, dared not utter a word as the two left.
Anakin cast a final warning glance at the Dursleys, the glow of his lightsaber flickering ominously. The message was clear—harassment of Harry would not go unanswered. With that, they disappeared from the kitchen, leaving the Dursleys to grapple with the inexplicable presence of a Jedi in their home.
Anakin, his eyes scanning the cramped living space that Harry called his room, was appalled. The injustice of Harry being forced to live in such conditions fueled a burning rage within him. Whirling around, he faced the Dursleys with a stern expression.
"What is the meaning of this?" Anakin's voice boomed, echoing the discontent in his heart. "You have more than enough rooms in this house. A young man deserves a proper living space, not a cramped room! Get this fixed immediately!"
Anakin paused for a second, his eyes narrowing with resolve. "No! You know what? I do not trust you to fix this nonsense. I will be moving into this house," he declared. "That little Hutt," Anakin said, pointing directly at Dudley, "can live in this cramped room. I will be taking over his room. And Harry here will be taking over the other big room you guys have."
The Dursleys, still in shock from the Jedi's sudden intrusion, attempted to protest. However, their feeble objections were abruptly cut short when Anakin, with a swift swing of his lightsaber, sliced the door of Harry's room in half. The glowing blade left a smouldering line in the air as the door fell to the ground.
Turning back to the stunned Dursleys, Anakin raised an eyebrow. "Do we have a problem with my decision?" he asked, the subtle hum of his lightsaber lingering in the air.
The senior Dursleys, their faces paling, gulped audibly and shook their heads in rapid denial. Dudley, however, continued to voice his complaints, oblivious to the glowing lightsaber in Anakin's hand. Before he could escalate the situation further, Aunt Petunia, realising the severity of the Jedi's presence, swiftly silenced him and dragged him away, muttering about keeping quiet.
Uncle Vernon, still in shock, followed suit, giving Anakin a wide berth as they retreated from the Jedi's determined gaze. The atmosphere in the Dursleys' home had shifted dramatically, Anakin's bold actions leaving an indelible mark on their once orderly domain.
Anakin couldn't help but break into a triumphant smile, his eyes gleaming with a mischievous spark. "Well, it's always fun to give bullies a taste of their own medicine," he quipped, the lightsaber deactivating with a satisfying hum.
Harry couldn't suppress a laugh, appreciating the unexpected turn of events. Anakin clapped him on the shoulder, declaring, "Let's get your stuff moved into the other room. A change of scenery might do you good, my friend."
As they began the task of rearranging Harry's living arrangements, the echoes of laughter and camaraderie resonated through the Dursleys' house, leaving a trace of something entirely unfamiliar within its walls.
As they cleared out Dudley's room, tossing his possessions unceremoniously into the hallway, Anakin and Harry found an unexpected sense of liberation in the act. Harry couldn't help but feel a rush of glee, a release of the pent-up frustration that had built over years of mistreatment. Anakin, too, seemed to revel in the defiance against the oppressive environment.
As they worked, Harry began to sense a shift within himself. The weight of Dumbledore's teachings about forgiveness and second chances started to feel burdensome. Anakin's unapologetic approach to dealing with the Dursleys seemed to resonate with a part of Harry that had long been suppressed—the part that yearned for justice, not just forgiveness.
In that room, amid the scattered remnants of Dudley's discarded belongings, a subtle transformation occurred within Harry. He was learning that not everyone deserves a second chance, and sometimes, reclaiming power from those who had wielded it unjustly was a form of justice in itself.
Anakin surveyed the few belongings scattered across Harry's room, a hint of concern creasing his brow. "Is this all you have, Harry?" he asked, his eyes flicking from the small pile of worn-out clothes to the sparse collection of personal items.
Harry, who had grown accustomed to making do with the bare minimum, offered a nonchalant shrug. "Yeah, not much to my name, really. The Dursleys never believed in luxury, or even basic comfort for the 'freak'."
As they continued to arrange Harry's possessions in his new room, Anakin couldn't shake the feeling that the meagreness of Harry's belongings reflected more than just the Dursleys' frugality—it spoke of a life marked by deprivation and a constant struggle for survival.
Anakin let out a thoughtful sigh, leaning against the half-empty wall. "You know, Harry, I was never one for material possessions either. The Jedi Order has a way of making you detached from such things. But I've come to realise that sometimes, having a few comforts makes the journey a bit more bearable."
His mind drifted momentarily to the Jedi Order, the place that had been his home for so long. Anakin couldn't help but feel a pang of resentment, a lingering bitterness at the lack of recognition he believed he deserved. "The Jedi had this idea that possessions and attachments lead to the dark side. Maybe they were right, to an extent. But sometimes, I think they didn't appreciate what we sacrificed just by being Jedi, by being a part of their Order."
He looked around the room, his gaze landing on the cracked walls and the worn-out mattress. "We should go shopping, my friend. Not just for ship repairs, but for you. You deserve better." Anakin flashed a half-smile. "What do you say?"
Harry nodded in agreement with Anakin's suggestion. "Diagon Alley is the place to go for magical supplies. But, well, there's a bit of a hitch." He hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Dumbledore's orders, you see. I'm not supposed to leave this house. It has wards which prevent Voldemort and his Death Eaters from finding me. According to Dumbledore, outside these walls, I'd be an easy target for kidnapping or worse."
He gestured vaguely toward the window, where the invisible barrier of magical protection stretched. "The watchers here, they're not here in case of a surprise attack. No, their main job is to keep an eye on me, to ensure that I stay put."
Harry sighed, a mix of frustration and resignation in his tone. "So, shopping might have to wait unless we figure out a way around the wards and the watchers."
Anakin's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "You willingly accept being caged?" he asked incredulously. "I can't imagine willingly allowing myself to be bound against my wishes. If there's a way out, we should find it. No one should have that kind of control over your life."
Harry sighed, a hint of frustration tainting his voice. "Dumbledore, he is used to getting his way in the wizarding world. His word is like gospel to most wizards and witches. Those who aren't in his pockets are often followers of Voldemort, and they'd be more than happy to eliminate me to please their master. As a student, I'm not allowed to use magic outside of school until I'm seventeen. So I'm stuck here until then."
Anakin, ever the strategist, started brainstorming escape plans, but Harry interjected with a more practical perspective. "It's easier to keep Privet Drive as our base of operations. Dumbledore won't initiate a man-hunt as long as I'm here, and Voldemort or his minions won't be able to get in thanks to the wards. It's a sort of stalemate that works for us, at least for now."
Anakin, frustrated by the limitations imposed by their current situation, reclined on the bed. After a moment of contemplation, he suggested, "Well, if we're stuck here for the time being, how about I continue my story? And in return, you can share a bit more about yourself. What do you say?"
Harry's mind flickered back to the unsettling revelation R2-D2 had stumbled upon in the holo-terminal—that the prophecy might be false. The idea lingered in his mind, casting a shadow of doubt on the claims made by Dumbledore. As he considered the implications, a seed of scepticism took root, and he couldn't shake the feeling that the truth about his destiny might be more complex than he had been led to believe.
The weight of uncertainty pressed heavily on Harry's shoulders as he turned to Anakin, a tumult of emotions reflected in his eyes. "Anakin, do you think... could it be true? The prophecy, everything Dumbledore told me... what if it's all a lie? What if I've been living my life based on a lie?"
Anakin scratched his head, a puzzled expression marring his features. "Honestly, I have no clue. R2-D2 wouldn't comment on it until he was sure, and astromech droids are all about precision and facts. But..." He trailed off, a thoughtful furrow deepening on his forehead. "It does seem odd, doesn't it?"
"Tell me Harry, who exactly is Dumbledore? How is he involved in your life"
Harry sighed, a mix of frustration and resignation in his voice. "Albus Dumbledore is... complicated. He's the headmaster of Hogwarts, the wizarding school I attend. He's also the one who left me at the Dursleys after my parents died. He is the leader of the Order of the Phoenix, the resistance group he founded against Voldemort and he is also the only one Voldemort has ever feared. However, he also believes in the Greater Good, he left me here when he knew that I would not be happy and also kept me in the dark about the prophecy, only revealing it after Sirius died."
As Harry spoke, Anakin could sense the conflict in him, the frustration of being not in control of his own life, a pawn in someone else's game. The tangled web of Dumbledore's influence seemed to have ensnared Harry's life, leaving him grappling with doubts and uncertainties.
"Dumbledore is hailed as one of the greatest wizards of all time. He also defeated Grindelwald, a Dark Lord in a legendary duel. The wizarding world reveres him for it. He's been offered the position of Minister for Magic several times, but he always declines, claiming he doesn't want the power. However, he holds numerous other titles—Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot, Supreme Mugwump of the International Confederation of Wizards, and, of course, the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry."
Harry's tone carried a hint of scepticism. "People trust him implicitly, believing he's working tirelessly against Voldemort. And maybe he is, but... he plays his cards close to the chest. He keeps secrets, and sometimes I wonder if it's for the greater good or just to maintain control."
Anakin's scepticism was palpable, this Dumbledore eerily reminiscent of Supreme Chancellor Palpatine before he was revealed as the Sith Lord. "Someone with that much power, refusing political positions but still pulling strings in the background? People like that usually have their own agenda, and it's rarely for the benefit of everyone else. I've seen it before in the galaxy."
He paused, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. "Tell me more about him. How does he involve himself in your life?"
Harry recounted the major events of his Hogwarts years, emphasising the instances where Dumbledore's influence was keenly felt. From the Philosopher's Stone to the Triwizard Tournament, and the grim battle at the Department of Mysteries, Dumbledore was always there at the very last moment. The Headmaster's involvement in Harry's life felt less like guidance and more like manipulation, each revelation leaving Anakin more sceptical of the wizard in the high tower.
"I'll be honest, Harry," Anakin spoke, his voice low with a hint of scepticism. "It seems that Dumbledore has a plan in his mind for you. The level of control and, honestly, manipulation he has in your life is surprising. From what you've told me, it sounds like he's pulling strings from behind the scenes. It makes me wonder, what's his endgame in all of this?"
Harry's defences shot up at Anakin's words. "You don't understand, Anakin. Dumbledore might be controlling things, but he's also the only one keeping Voldemort at bay. Without him, the wizarding world would have fallen to Voldemort a long time ago. He's done a lot to protect me, to protect all of us. It's not that simple. Dumbledore is a great man. He might have his flaws, but you cannot doubt what he has done for me!"
Anakin leaned forward, his eyes locked onto Harry's. "Yes, Dumbledore is a great man, Harry. He leaves you in an abusive household, 'for your protection.' And yet, Dumbledore is a great man. He withholds crucial information, keeps you in the dark about your own life, your own destiny. And yet, Dumbledore is a great man. He pushes you into the line of danger, lets you face off against who you call the most powerful Dark Lord, all while claiming it's for the 'greater good.' And yet, Dumbledore is a great man. He plays your life like a puppet master, pulling the strings and orchestrating events for his grand design. And yet, Dumbledore is a great man!"
Anakin's voice dripped with a mix of sarcasm and bitterness. "Tell me, Harry, how many more sacrifices do you have to make for this 'great man'? How many more secrets will he keep from you? How much more manipulation will you tolerate? Can you truly call someone great when their actions consistently put your life in jeopardy?"
"He might be considered a great man, Harry, but ask yourself this, is he a good man? Does he genuinely care about you?"
"Consider this, he was the one the prophecy was made to. How certain are you that he repeated it verbatim to you? What are the chances that he revealed the actual prophecy rather than crafting words that suited his narrative?"
"While there might exist a real prophecy out there somewhere about you being the person that defeats this Voldemort character, what Dumbledore told you may not be the same. I am not claiming it is false, but I want you to think for yourself and not just follow someone blindly."
Harry's mind churned with conflicting thoughts. The weight of Anakin's words settled in, cracking the foundation of unwavering trust Harry had built for Dumbledore. Unlike the Death Eaters or the Slytherins with their disdain for Dumbledore or the Weasleys and their almost worshipful belief, Anakin presented him with arguments, not just emotional appeals, about Dumbledore and his flaws.
A tumultuous sea of doubt and realisation surged within him. Dumbledore, the revered figure who claimed to work for the greater good, had orchestrated circumstances that endangered Harry repeatedly. The notion that his sacrifice might be part of Dumbledore's plan gnawed at Harry's convictions.
As the walls of trust crumbled, a sobering truth emerged – Dumbledore's 'Greater Good' seemed to have a cost, and that cost was often borne by Harry. The conflict in Harry's eyes reflected the internal struggle between the loyalty he felt for Dumbledore and the revelation that his sacrifices might not be as selfless as they seemed.
AN: Here's the next update folks. We are however sorry to inform you that the next chapter will take some time. We have a packed schedule in the upcoming weeks, and will try our best to get the next chapter published as soon as possible!
Starboy454 and EP: Thank you!
AiyaKnight: Thank you very much for your support! We'll slowly be introducing more elements of Star Wars into the story once Anakin is a bit more accustomed to Earth.
27mad97: Hope this chapter answers some of the doubts you raised, specifically of us violating canon! If it still didn't, we will ask you to kindly wait and keep on reading, as we will soon reveal the exact circumstances and true story that we think better fits the Harry Potter narrative very soon!
scyfly: Mace Windu did have backup in the form of Anakin as we have written and about the change in canon, well the Force does work in mysterious ways. We shall gradually expand on the lore and the reasoning behind all the changes.
May the Force be with you!
Dragonstaff and Technomage