Disclaimer: Playing in Rowling 's and Lucas's sandbox. They own the toys; We're just having fun.
Previously on Chapter 8:
"Ah, Harry, my dear boy! I hope I didn't disturb your evening too much. However, I arrived a bit early and your relatives were kind enough to entertain me. And would you mind explaining who this strapping young man might be?" Dumbledore greeted, his twinkling blue eyes betraying the slightest hint of mischief.
'Dragonstaff and Technomage' - Thoughts
Chapter 9 - Forgiveness has to be Earned
Harry hesitated, exchanging a quick glance with Anakin which did not go unnoticed by the old wizard. "This is… Anakin. He's an old friend, and has just moved back into the area. I was just showing him around."
Dumbledore's eyebrows arched ever so slightly, "An old friend, you say?" He seemed to glance at the Dursleys, who were looking frightened, uncomfortable and angry at the same time, leading to the weirdest expressions Harry had ever seen on them.
Dumbledore's lips curved into a gentle smile, though his eyes betrayed a hint of scepticism. "It's always heartening to see you reconnecting with old friends, Harry," he remarked, his tone laden with underlying meaning. "Especially in a place that holds so many... cherished memories."
Harry shifted uncomfortably under Dumbledore's scrutinising gaze, silently willing that the old wizard would believe their fabricated tale. "Yes, well, Anakin and I have a lot of catching up to do," he added, hoping to steer the conversation away before Dumbledore pried any further. "We were just swapping some... childhood stories."
Anakin nodded in agreement, a practised smile gracing his features. "Indeed, Mr. Dumbledore," he chimed in smoothly, and that seemed to get an eye twitch from the old man. 'So he does not like being addressed as Mr. Dumbledore. Something to keep a note of'. "It's been far too long since Harry and I last had a chance to talk, especially now that he is at his new school. We have quite a bit of reminiscing to do."
Dumbledore's eyes twinkled knowingly as he leaned forward, his voice carrying a weight of understanding beneath its jovial tone. "Ah, reminiscing, you say? Indeed, Harry, old memories have a curious way of resurfacing at the most unexpected times." He paused, his gaze flickering between Harry and Anakin. "But you must remember, my dear boy, that while the past may offer comfort, it is the present that demands our attention. And sometimes, the present can be... quite revealing, wouldn't you agree?"
Harry exchanged a puzzled look with Anakin, both sensing the underlying message in Dumbledore's words but failing to decipher its true intent.
"Err, yes, Professor Dumbledore," Harry began tentatively, "the present certainly does offer its own set of challenges, doesn't it?"
Anakin nodded in agreement, albeit hesitantly. "Absolutely, Mr. Dumbledore". Cue eye twitch. "You never know what you may stumble upon."
Dumbledore's smile widened slightly, a glint of amusement dancing in his eyes as he enjoyed the byplay between them. It had been far too long since he had such a good opponent. "Indeed, navigating through the present can be quite the adventure, full of surprises and revelations." He leaned back in his chair, folding his hands thoughtfully. "But for now, I have something of importance to talk to you about, my boy"
As Dumbledore looked at Harry, he felt a mixture of pride tempered with his usual dose of curiosity. The young wizard had indeed come a long way since their last encounter in his office, where emotions had run high and uncomfortable truths had been unearthed. Now, Harry appeared more composed, his demeanour reflecting a newfound sense of maturity and understanding.
"I must say, Harry," Dumbledore began, his tone gentle yet discerning, "I am pleased to see how you have grown since our last meeting. I was afraid that you would have remained angry at me and I am glad that I was wrong in my assumptions. Perhaps this discussion might just be more fruitful than I was expecting when I set out to meet you today."
Harry offered a grateful smile, acknowledging the words of the venerable wizard. "Thank you, Professor. I've been... learning a lot, lately."
Dumbledore nodded, his piercing gaze shifting momentarily to Anakin, who sat beside Harry. The two were young and thought that they had successfully managed to fool him. But he had been playing these games for decades now, and he could easily see through their act.
Another thing that rankled Dumbledore was the presence of this Anakin fellow. Before today, Harry might have withheld the truth from him, but straight up lying to him. Never. 'Who is this person? And why does Harry seem to trust him so much that he would hide the truth from me?'
He hated to admit it, but Harry had never been the best person at choosing his friends. The existence of Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger as Harry's best friends were direct proof of this. Weasley was little more than a hanger-on, someone who basked in Harry's reflected glory without contributing much of value himself. And Granger, while undoubtedly intelligent and resourceful, was too beholden to authority figures. If Dumbledore or anyone else of importance asked, she would have no qualms about betraying Harry's trust to curry favour.
The addition of a third could stack the board permanently against Harry, and he could not allow that to happen. There was more to this situation than met the eye, and he intended to get to the bottom of it. 'Before I proceed any further, best to get an understanding of this Anakin fellow.'
Dumbledore turned his attention to Anakin, his expression genial. "Firstly let me introduce myself, I am Albus Percival Wulfric Brian Dumbledore, the Headmaster at Harry's school. It is a pleasure to meet a childhood friend of Harry's."
"So Anakin my boy, what brings you back here? Apologies for an old man's curiosity but Harry is like a grandson to me, especially with his parents being dear friends of mine and I would very much like to get to know his other friends."
"Likewise, Mr. Dumbledore, it is a pleasure to meet someone Harry has spoken so much of", Anakin offered a polite nod in return. He hated this polite double speak. Thank God Obi-Wan had made him practise it for an uncountable number of hours. "I have known Harry since primary school. I once stopped his fat cousin from chasing him across the grounds. We talked some. Unfortunately, I had to move cities, and have just returned back to this place."
"I came across Harry a few nights ago, when he was sitting in the park. We recognised each other then." 'There you go. Bullshit mixed with just enough of the truth to make it believable. You better be proud of me, Obi Wan.'
Dumbledore's eyes gleamed with interest, though his mind was already probing deeper beneath the surface of Anakin's words. "A chance encounter in the park, you say? How fortuitous. And what brings you back to this particular area, if I may ask?"
Anakin's smile remained affable, though there was a flicker of discomfort in his eyes. "Ah, well, you see, circumstances led me to return to this area. Family matters, you might say. And when I stumbled upon Harry, it felt like a sign that I was meant to be here."
Dumbledore nodded thoughtfully, though his intuition told him there was more to the story than Anakin was letting on. "It's curious how fate has a way of bringing people together at just the right moment."
Anakin's gaze remained steady, though there was a hint of tension in his shoulders. "Indeed, Professor. Fate works in mysterious ways, guiding us along paths we never thought we'd tread."
As the conversation continued, Dumbledore subtly probed Anakin's mind, his touch lighter than a feather, allowing him to glean the truth behind the words spoken.
He had been doing this for countless years now: his manner of speaking always eliciting a reaction from the other person which allowed him to slip into their minds with ease, his subtle probes undetectable to all but the most skilled practitioners of Occlumency. And so, as they continued talking, Dumbledore looked Anakin in the eye, sending forth a small tendril of his mind, intent on finding out the truth of why he was there.
'After all, morality meant little in the face of the greater good. No harm could be allowed to come to Harry, for he was the shining beacon of hope for the Wizarding World.'
As Dumbledore's mental probe approached, Anakin's senses tingled with the telltale signs of a mental intrusion. With a subtle but swift manoeuvre, he deflected the attack, his training as a Jedi having taught him how to detect even the slightest hints of a mental attack. For a moment, Dumbledore seemed taken aback, his eyebrows twitching imperceptibly in surprise.
Anakin's expression remained impassive, but inwardly, he bristled with anger. The audacity of Dumbledore's attempt to try and influence his mind was both unexpected and unwelcome. He narrowed his eyes ever so slightly, his guard rising in response to the intrusion.
"Forgive me, Mr. Dumbledore," Anakin's voice remained polite, but there was an edge to his tone, "but I must object to such invasive methods. Attempting to probe into someone's mind without their consent is not only disrespectful but also a breach of privacy."
Dumbledore's surprise dissolved into a quiet revelation as he processed Anakin's response. A wizard, then. The young man possessed a skill far beyond that of the average Muggle. Only wizards, after all, were capable of mastering the intricate art of Occlumency.
The fact that Anakin had not only detected but also deflected Dumbledore's lightest probe spoke volumes about his prowess. Even Severus could not claim the same.
Yet, instead of admiration, a simmering anger began to bubble within Dumbledore. A wizard had breached the supposed sanctity of Harry's home, infiltrating the protective wards that Dumbledore himself had cast. The genial facade that had cloaked Dumbledore's true nature faded, revealing the stern countenance of a seasoned war veteran.
His magic pulsed outward, a tangible pressure that weighed heavily upon the room, causing the air to crackle with suppressed energy. Harry and Anakin felt the weight of Dumbledore's power pressing down upon them, a silent reminder of the formidable force that stood before them.
Even the Dursleys felt the wave of power washing over them. Dudley gave a little scream, but was promptly silenced by Vernon, who was looking at Dumbledore fearfully. Petunia had already passed out.
Inwardly, Dumbledore cursed himself for underestimating the situation. How had he allowed a potential threat to get so close to Harry? His mind raced with thoughts of security breaches and potential dangers, his thoughts racing faster than ever. He had let his guard down, and now Harry might pay the price.
Dumbledore's voice, though calm, carried an unmistakable weight as he addressed Harry and Anakin. "I must insist that you both answer my questions truthfully," he said, his tone carrying the weight of his magic, which pressed upon them like an invisible force.
"Mr. Anakin," Dumbledore's gaze bore into the Jedi, "you seem to possess a level of skill in the mind arts which is quite remarkable. Tell me, what is your purpose here? And why have you taken an interest in Harry?"
Dumbledore's piercing gaze shifted to Harry, his scrutiny unwavering. "And what of you, Harry?" he asked, his voice tinged with a hint of urgency. "Why have you allowed this stranger into your life? Do you trust him?"
Harry's anger, simmering beneath the surface all evening, finally boiled over, fueling his magic as it swirled about him in a visible display of power. Dumbledore did not get to come into his home and tell him what he was meant to do. It was Dumbledore's fault he was stuck here, and he would sooner die than give up his friendship with Anakin. The room crackled with energy as Harry's magic pressed back against Dumbledore's, the force of it causing the old wizard's magic to falter and retreat.
Dumbledore's eyes widened in surprise as he felt the strength of Harry's magic pushing against his own. He had not anticipated such a display of power from the young wizard, and for a moment, he found himself at a loss for words.
Harry's display of raw power left Anakin speechless, his mind racing with thoughts of the implications of what he had just witnessed. He couldn't help but draw parallels between Dumbledore and his own mentor, Master Yoda. Both were strong, old, and wise, possessing a deep understanding of the Force and unafraid to wield their power when necessary.
But as Anakin watched Harry stand his ground against Dumbledore, he couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. If someone as young and inexperienced as Harry could match the power of a seasoned wizard like Dumbledore at such a young age, then the potential he held was unfathomable. With the right training and guidance, Harry could become a force to be reckoned with, capable of shaping the course of history in ways Anakin could scarcely imagine.
For the first time since he had left his home and been catapulted to wherever he was now, he saw a light at the end of the tunnel. Harry, the powerful little shit that he was, could be just the push they needed to defeat the Sith. For the first time in a long while, Anakin allowed himself to hope. Unseen and unknown to the occupants of the house, the tendrils of dark which had clawed their way into his soul slowly began to lose purchase.
"You!" Harry's finger jabbed accusingly at Dumbledore, his eyes blazing with righteous fury. "You think you can just waltz in here and dictate how I should live my life? Well, I've had enough of your manipulations, Dumbledore! From the moment I stepped foot in Hogwarts, you've been pulling the strings, orchestrating every aspect of my life!"
Harry's voice reverberated off the walls of the room, his words a damning indictment of Dumbledore's actions. "When my parents died, you left me at the Dursleys', knowing full well the abuse I endured there! Then the first year, sending Hagrid and making sure that he ingrained into me that Gryffindor was good and Slytherin was bad. Then the meeting with the Weasleys at King's Cross, which I am sure that you set up. The troll, the whole gauntlet at the end of the year. Making me face Voldemort and having the blood of a professor on my hand before I even turned twelve."
"Second year, how did a thirteen year old muggleborn witch identify the creature threatening your school before you. You had more than fifty years, and yet it took her only a few months. Meanwhile in my third year you allowed that idiot Fudge to place Dementors around YOURschool."
"Last year, you kept vital information from me, putting my life in danger yet again! And you are responsible for Sirius' death! Oh! And let's not forget the Triwizard Tournament, where you allowed me to be entered as a bloody pawn for your little game! And what did that lead to? Cedric's death and Voldemort returning."
"And Ron and Hermione! You set them up to be my friends. The meeting with Molly was staged, Ron not finding an empty compartment, and Hermione just being in the washroom that the troll attacked? Once is happenstance, twice is coincidence, but three times? Three times is enemy action!
Harry's chest heaved with each accusation, his frustration boiling over as he recounted the injustices he had suffered at Dumbledore's hands. "And now, you have the audacity to question my choices, my friendships? Well, I won't stand for it anymore! I refuse to be your puppet, Dumbledore! I am my own person, and I will make my own decisions!"
Dumbledore's expression remained stoic as Harry's accusations washed over him like a tidal wave of truth. Each word struck a chord deep within him, causing him to visibly age before their eyes. The weight of Harry's words bore down on him like a heavy burden, threatening to crush him under the weight of his own failings.
For the first time, Dumbledore was truly silent, his usually eloquent tongue rendered speechless by the magnitude of Harry's grievances. He had always believed he was acting in the best interests of the wizarding world, but in doing so, he had overlooked the needs of the individual. In his quest to protect the entire forest, he had neglected the plants which grew under its shade.
As Harry's tirade came to an end, Dumbledore's shoulders slumped in defeat, the weight of his guilt almost palpable in the air. He had failed Harry, had failed to see the boy behind the legend, and for that, he could never forgive himself.
As Dumbledore stood there, the weight of Harry's accusations heavy on his conscience, he couldn't help but question the very foundations of the society he had dedicated his life to protecting. Did the forest even deserve saving, he wondered, when its inhabitants were so quick to cast aside their morals in pursuit of power and influence?
The thought gnawed at him, a seed of doubt planted deep within his mind. He had always believed in the inherent goodness of humanity, in the capacity for redemption and forgiveness. But as he reflected on the actions of those he had fought so hard to protect, he found himself questioning whether such faith was misplaced.
Were the Death Eaters truly deserving of a second chance, simply because they were wealthy and influential? Were the lives Harry had risked his own to save truly worth saving, if those he had saved were so willing to embrace darkness over light?
Dumbledore's eyes, usually bright with wisdom and kindness, now bore the weight of years of regret and self-reflection. He took a deep breath, his voice tinged with genuine remorse as he addressed Harry.
"Harry," he began, his tone soft but earnest, "I cannot begin to express the depth of my remorse for the role I have played in your struggles. For too long, I have allowed my own ambitions and convictions to cloud my judgement, to the detriment of those I sought to protect."
He paused, his gaze searching Harry's eyes for forgiveness. "You are right to accuse me, Harry. I have failed you in more ways than I care to admit. I allowed you to suffer in silence, to bear burdens that no child should ever have to bear. For that, I am truly sorry."
Dumbledore's voice faltered, emotion choking his words as he continued, "I should have been there for you, Harry. I should have been there to hold your hand and guide you when you faced the darkness all alone. But I was too focused on the greater good, too blinded by my own ideals to see the pain and suffering you endured."
He took a step closer to Harry, his expression pained but sincere. "Please, Harry, forgive me. I may not be able to undo the mistakes of the past, but I vow to do everything in my power to make amends, to support you in whatever way you need."
With those words, Dumbledore extended a hand towards Harry, a silent plea for forgiveness and reconciliation. And as Harry met his gaze, he saw the truth in Dumbledore's eyes – a truth born of humility, regret, and a genuine desire to make things right.
Harry's gaze shifted to Anakin, seeking guidance in this moment of uncertainty. For years, he had borne the weight of his struggles alone, never allowing himself to rely on anyone but himself. But now, faced with Dumbledore's heartfelt apology, he felt a wave of conflicting emotions wash over him.
It was the first time an adult had ever apologised to him, the first time since Sirius that he had felt someone truly cared. And yet, accepting Dumbledore's apology meant letting go of years of resentment and anger, of acknowledging that perhaps Dumbledore wasn't the villain he had believed him to be.
Anakin's nod, barely perceptible but filled with understanding, offered Harry a glimmer of hope. In that simple gesture, Harry saw the truth in Dumbledore's words, the potential for a new beginning, for reconciliation and healing.
With a deep breath, Harry turned back to Dumbledore, his eyes reflecting a mixture of apprehension and tentative trust. Slowly, hesitantly, he reached out and clasped Dumbledore's outstretched hand, a silent acknowledgment of forgiveness and acceptance.
And as their hands met, Harry felt a weight lift from his shoulders, a sense of peace and resolution settling over him. In that moment, he knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, he would not face them alone. For he had found a powerful ally in Dumbledore.
Dumbledore's gentle voice broke the calm that had settled over the room as they sipped their tea, his eyes focused intently on Harry. "Harry," he began, his tone soft yet probing, "you mentioned something during your... understandable outburst. You said that I 'set up' your friendships with Ron and Hermione. Does that mean you no longer trust them?"
Harry shifted uncomfortably in his seat, the weight of Dumbledore's question bearing down on him like a heavy burden. "I... I'm not sure, Professor," he admitted reluctantly, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "It's just... Ron's constant betrayals and... and feeling of inadequacy. It's like he's trying to prove himself all the time, but... but he always falls short. It is like Peter Pettigrew waiting to happen all over again."
He paused, his thoughts turning to Hermione, his once steadfast companion who now seemed to be drifting further and further away. "And Hermione," he continued, his voice faltering slightly, "she's so... so focused on rules and order, like she's afraid to step out of line. But sometimes I wonder if... if she's capable of more than she lets on. If one push might just be enough to... to turn her into the Bellatrix of this generation."
Dumbledore nodded solemnly, his expression reflecting a sense of regret. "I am an educator first and foremost, Harry," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of sadness. "And as an educator, I try to see the best in all my students. But leading two war efforts takes its toll. You start seeing enemies everywhere. And I do agree with your observations."
He paused, his gaze drifting to the steaming cup of tea in his hands before returning to Harry. "Not only are they not good friends," he continued, his tone heavy with conviction, "but they have also hindered you from achieving the greatness that many of us professors at Hogwarts believed you were destined for."
"What do you mean, Mr. Dumbledore?" Anakin inquired, his curiosity piqued.
Dumbledore offered a gentle smile, though there was a hint of seriousness in his eyes. "Ah, I have worked hard for my title, young Anakin," he replied. "I would prefer it if you would address me as Professor or Headmaster Dumbledore. While you are not my student, these are the titles by which I define myself."
"And as for your question," Dumbledore continued, addressing Harry, "James and Lily were two of the brightest students Hogwarts had seen in a long time. The Marauders, despite causing many headaches for Minerva and the other professors, were never seriously punished. Do you know why?"
Upon Harry's denial, Dumbledore pressed on. "The reason was that each of their pranks was well-researched. Hardly ever did they cross the line, and the magic they employed was impressive. So, when the son of these two brilliant students arrived at Hogwarts, many of the professors, including myself, expected you to perform at their standards. But alas, you never did."
"And I believe that the blame can be laid mostly at the feet of your so-called best friends. Mr. Weasley is one of the most lazy, unmotivated students I have ever seen, and I have been teaching for quite a few years now. He expects everything to be handed to him on a plate without putting in the necessary effort; it's a big reason why he ingratiated himself into the position of your friend, I believe."
"Ms. Granger, on the other hand, is the worst example of a Muggle-born adapting to the magical world. She fails to understand that Magical Britain and Muggle Britain are entirely different societies, each with its own customs and rituals. Her insistence on the superiority of the Muggle world is disliked by most Purebloods, further isolating you since you are her friend. Additionally, while she may excel in her OWLs, I doubt she will perform well in her NEWTs. Unlike OWLs, NEWTs require original thinking, and a student who regards books as infallible gospel without using her own intellect will likely struggle as a witch."
As Dumbledore's words sank in, Harry's mind flashed back to numerous instances where Ron and Hermione monopolised his time and attention, effectively isolating him from potential friendships with others. He recalled moments when they would pull him away from conversations or activities with classmates, leaving him feeling disconnected and alone. Except for Neville, his dormmates were nothing more than acquaintances, their interactions limited to brief exchanges in passing. Harry realised now how Ron and Hermione's constant presence had hindered his ability to form genuine connections with his peers, trapping him in a cycle of dependency and isolation.
"Believe me, Harry. I wouldn't wish those kinds of friends on my worst enemy. I had no hand in setting them up, as you said. And that is the only point I differ with you on."
"Dare I say, Harry," Dumbledore began, his voice gentle yet filled with sincerity, "that the changes I see in you are quite positive. It seems that you have found a good influence in Mr. Anakin here." He offered a nod in Anakin's direction, acknowledging the Jedi's role in Harry's growth.
"I must also extend my apologies to you, Mr. Anakin," Dumbledore continued, his tone apologetic. "I allowed my suspicions to cloud my judgement, and for that, I am truly sorry. It was unfair of me to accuse you without sufficient proof, and I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me."
Anakin merely nodded, silently accepting the apology.
"And now, if I may be so bold," Dumbledore interjected with a twinkle in his eye, "I would like to ask once again." He gestured towards Anakin with a flourish, a playful smile dancing on his lips. "As I asked earlier this evening, who might this strapping young man be?"
Harry and Anakin shared a glance, a silent understanding passing between them. With a small nod from Harry, Anakin turned to Dumbledore, a calm yet guarded expression on his face.
"It's Anakin's story to share," Harry said firmly, his voice carrying a note of determination. "He's a friend, Dumbledore, and his past is his own business."
Dumbledore's smile widened at Harry's response, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes. "Ah, very well then," he conceded, nodding graciously. "Anakin, the stage is yours. Should you wish to share your story, we are all ears." He leaned back in his chair, awaiting Anakin's response with keen interest.
"My story might actually sound too fanciful to be true. How about I show you rather than tell you, Professor?"
Dumbledore chuckled at Anakin's response, his curiosity piqued. "A demonstration, you say? Well, I must admit, that sounds positively intriguing. By all means, Mr. Anakin, lead the way!" He rose from his chair, gesturing for Anakin to take the lead.
As Dumbledore stepped into the Ebon Hawk, his eyes widened in wonder at the sight before him. The interior of the ship was unlike anything he had ever seen, a dazzling display of advanced technology intermingled with elements of magic. His gaze swept over the sleek surfaces and intricate designs, taking in every detail with a sense of awe.
"Remarkable," Dumbledore breathed, his voice filled with wonder. "Truly remarkable."
As Harry and Anakin began to recount Anakin's story, Dumbledore listened intently, his attention never wavering as they delved into the details of Anakin's past. He listened with a mixture of fascination and concern, his mind whirling with the implications of Anakin's extraordinary journey.
Throughout the tale, Dumbledore's expression shifted from astonishment to contemplation, his eyes occasionally narrowing in thought as he processed the information. He asked probing questions and sought clarification on certain points, his keen intellect piecing together the puzzle of Anakin's life.
At the conclusion of the story, Dumbledore fell silent, his mind racing with the implications of what he had heard. He sat in quiet contemplation for a moment, his gaze fixed on Harry and Anakin with a newfound sense of respect and admiration.
Finally, he spoke, his voice filled with a mixture of awe and reverence. "An extraordinary tale, indeed," he said, his words tinged with emotion. "You have faced trials and tribulations that few could even imagine, and yet here you stand, stronger and more resilient than ever."
Dumbledore turned to Anakin, his eyes shining with admiration. "You, young man, are a testament to the power of the human spirit. Your journey is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, and I have no doubt that you will continue to accomplish great things in the days to come."
As Dumbledore immersed himself in the wonders of the Ebon Hawk, his eyes alight with curiosity, his academic curiosity was piqued like never before. The advanced technology and craftsmanship presented a fascinating puzzle that he was eager to unravel.
His attention was immediately drawn to the droids that populated the ship, their sleek metallic forms very different from the golems of the magical world. With a keen eye, Dumbledore observed their movements and interactions, marvelling at the wonders of machinery unlike any he had ever seen.
"Remarkable," Dumbledore murmured, his voice tinged with wonder. "These droids... They possess a level of sophistication that is truly astounding. I cannot sense any hint of magic, yet they are just as alive and intelligent as you or me."
As he delved deeper into the workings of the droids, Dumbledore's mind buzzed with questions and theories, his academic curiosity driving him to unravel the mysteries of their construction and function. How were they powered? What gave them such sentience? And what role did they play in the daily life of the ship?
Lost in his exploration, Dumbledore barely noticed the passage of time as he immersed himself in the study of these remarkable creations. For a moment, the cares of the world fell away, replaced by the joy of discovery and the thrill of academic pursuit, something which the war had taken away from him.
But alas, time waits for none. As Dumbledore reluctantly tore himself away from the captivating world of the futuristic ship and its occupants, he knew that his other duties beckoned. With a heavy heart, he bid farewell to Harry and Anakin, promising to return soon for further discussions.
Before departing, Dumbledore turned to Harry with a solemn expression. "There is one more matter I must discuss with you, Harry," he began, his tone grave. "I may need to call upon you to help with hiring our new professor, one Horace Slughorn."
"He may just be the person we need to help us in defeating Tom once and for all." Dumbledore explained. "He is a man who enjoys collecting famous people and you, my boy, just might be the one to get him back to Hogwarts."
Dumbledore continued, his gaze fixed on Harry and Anakin with a sense of urgency. "But that can wait. In the meantime, I would like both of you to read this book and try and understand what it means," he said, producing a worn tome from the folds of his robes. "It is the pinnacle of muggle literature, and I believe it is going to come in handy sooner rather than later."
Handing the book to Harry, Dumbledore emphasised the importance of their study. "This book holds secrets and insights that may prove invaluable in the days to come," he explained. "I urge you both to delve into its pages diligently."
With that, Dumbledore bid his farewells once more, disappearing with a soundless pop. As he disappeared into the night, Harry looked down to the book that Dumbledore had left him with.
"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu stared back up at Harry, its worn pages beckoning him to unlock its secrets.
AN: We would like to thank all our readers for their patience, it has been difficult to maintain a consistent timeline but we hope to get the next chapter to you sooner.
Starboy454, chronodaimon, patriotictexan85, fooplaya: Thank you so much! Hope you enjoy this chapter just as much.
MythsterBlack & DS2010: HK47 in the Havoc Side of the Force was an inspiration. If we can even reach half the level of craziness, this story would turn out much much better than we could ever plan for. Thanks for your reviews, and we hope you enjoy reading further on!
Dragonstaff and Technomage