Adult-FanFiction.org : Harry Potter

Of Shield and Sheath	By : KusanoSaku Category: Harry Potter > Slash - Male/Male > Harry/Draco Views: 17446 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 4
Disclaimer: I do not own the HP franchise so I make nothing from my writing.

Chapter List
- 2
- 3
- 4
Title: Of Shield and sheath
Pairing: future DracoxHarry
Summary: A foolhardy Dumbledore attempts to change fate, he gains more and less then he bargained for. Creature fic. Future Mpreg.
Author's Note: For Jannafrancine who has guessed a small portion of this story's plot. Sequel to Cadmus and the Phoenix.

Chapter 2- Diagon Alley lessons and rewards
Harry woke to a weird tapping sound. He sprang up, nearly drowning in a must blanket thing. He wiggled out to find it was huge coat; he looked around frightened by unfamiliar place. He spotted the oddest thing…
An owl, an ordinary owl was impatiently tapping on the window. Clutched in its talons was what seemed to be a newspaper. He shyly reached up a hand to touch the slumbering giant, "Hagrid…there's an owl acting funny…"
The giant muttered, "Let 'em in and pay 'em."
"With what?"
"Money…pockets…"
Harry started digging in the pockets and pulled out a handful of strange coins. "Hagrid…which ones…"
"Knuts…the bronze…"
Harry sighed walking over to open the window. The bird landed on his arm, his talons digging into his bare flesh. He held out a leg that had a pouch tied to it. Harry dropped coins in it.
Once there were five it dropped the paper and flew away.
Harry looked at his bleeding arm and sighed. Who used owls for post? It was weird…
He turned around and the giant was sitting up on the couch that seemed larger than before but still as nasty looking.
The giant scrubbed his face with his hand, "We got ter git a move on. First breakfast."
There were still four sausages in the pan
The plate he was handed had a huge slice of cake and two sausages on it.
Harry didn't need any invitation to gobble it down. He sat there licking his fingers when another wet face cloth appeared in his lap. He washed his face and hands with it.
"Now," Hagrid picked up his coat and dug out a dingy envelope. He held it out to Harry.
As Harry reached for it his uncle's voice broke the silence.
"He won't need that. He won't be going. He'll be going to Stonewall and he'll be grateful for it."
"Keep Lily and James' boy from going to Hogwarts? Like ya could stop him. He's been on the roll since he be born." The giant glared rising.
"He won't be needing wands, spell books, bat spleens and what not. He's not going to mix with yer lot."
"Ya want me ter hex ya? Or curse ya? Keep talking an' I be making wot I did ter yer boy look like nothin'. Shut up and go 'way yer great fool." He raised his umbrella threateningly.
His uncle glared and turned tail almost running to the bedroom, straight away slamming the door.
The giant sat back down and handed Harry the letter. "Go ahead and read Harry."
Harry shyly took it and opened it.
'Mr. H. Potter, The Floor, Hut-on-the-Rock, The Sea.
HOGWARTS SCHOOL of WITCHCRAFT and WIZARDRY
Headmaster: ALBUS DUMBLEDORE
(Order of Merlin, First Class, Grand Sorc., Chf. Warlock, Supreme Mugwump, International Confed. of Wizards)
Dear Mr. Potter,
We are pleased to inform you that you have been accepted at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You will find enclosed a list of all necessary books and equipment.
Term begins on September 1. We await your owl by no later than July 31.
Yours sincerely,
Minerva McGonagall,
Deputy Headmistress'
Harry blanched, "But it's August first…"
Hagrid whistled.
An owl flew through the window.
Hagrid dug out paper, a weird feather and ink, he scribbled on it and then read it aloud.
'Dear Albus.
It's me Hagrid. Sorry this be late. Harry's received his letter. Going ter London ter get his things.
Be back soon,
Hagrid'
"That ought to do it. Minerva be lecturing me but Albus will sort her out."
He handed the owl the letter, "Be quick wit ya now. No dawdling. Take it straighter ter tha Headmaster." He petted the bird, "Be good and I'll gib ya summat special when I git back."
The owl pecked him and flew away.
Hagrid started to put things back in his coat and put it on, "Shall we go?"
Harry nodded shifting nervously.
They walked towards the creaky dock and the ancient looking rowboat.
It was still standing…
Hagrid got in and it sunk a bit in the water. "It be a shame ter row. If I were ter er speed it up some would ya tell? I were told not use magic since I got ya…."
Harry gave him a noncommittal shrug.
Hagrid tapped the boat with his garish pink umbrella.
Then before Harry had time to blink they were moving swifter than Uncle Vernon rowed.
Hagrid sat back, placing his umbrella beside him and took out the paper.
Harry gasped the pictures were moving…
He rubbed his eyes and looked again.
He wasn't imagining it…
They made their way to the rail station after leaving the boat but not before Hagrid grumbled and with a mutter sent the rowboat back to where they'd come from. Another mumble and it was reattached to the dock.
"At least I canna be accused of stranding Muggles."
Hagrid led him to the rail station and purchased two tickets to London.
The train arrived quickly and they were soon on their way.
XoooooX
They left the station in London and made their way to a pub that could only be described as seedy.
The Leaky Cauldron was what the sign said.
It was crowded after a fashion and everyone wore odd clothing.
"Whatcha be needing Hagrid? An ale? A meal?"
"No thankee Tom. I be here on business, Hogwarts business." He pulled Harry in front of him and revealed the scar.
The Pub was silent for fifteen seconds and then it roared.
"Harry Potter? Here in my pub? Merlin…" the bartender gasped, a hand on his heart.
People crowded around Harry, shaking his hand, ruffling his hair, pinching or kissing his cheeks.
Harry finally had enough and ducked inside Hagrid's huge coat.
"Now Hagrid," a motherly woman chided the giant, "You've let us fright the poor dear. It's quite alright ducky. I'll hex anyone here who wants ta touch ya. You go and go now. I find out you did something like that to this poor child again and you'll think I was a mad hippogriff. You big dumb oaf."
Hagrid stiffened, "Cum on Harry." He paused to glare at the woman before practically dragging Harry away.
They went to the bank and Harry filled a bag with all the money he could carry. It wasn't as heavy as he thought.
Once they were out in the sunlight Hagrid still looked green.
"I'll be right back. I just be needin' sumthin ter pick me up. That here be Madam Malkin's. Go git yer robes. I'll cum back after a bit."
Harry was left all alone in this strange place. He looked around nervously before entering the shop.
There was a soft chime when he entered.
A woman of indeterminable age greeted him, and she eyed him critically.
Harry swallowed.
"Hogwarts?"
Harry nodded shyly.
"Come along then. We've got another of you in the back." she gestured for him to follow and walked off.
Harry followed her nervously.
The first thing he noticed was blonde hair. It was a boy…
Before he could stop himself he spoke, "Leo?"
The boy's head turned towards him, he blinked, "My name is Draco, Leo would be the wrong constellation."
Harry blushed; the boy was beautiful…he could hardly breathe. "I'm sorry…you looked like someone I used to know." He closed his eyes; "I forgot for a moment…they're gone…" his voice was so sad that it would be hard to mistake his meaning.
The lady tapped her foot impatiently. "Come on."
Harry shuffled towards her and stood on the stool.
The boy, Draco held out his hand. "Draco Malfoy."
Harry swallowed nervously and took it, "Harry…Potter…"
The boy's eyes widened with shook, he reached over to brush his hair out of his eyes.
When those pale fingers touched him Harry felt burned. He gasped.
"Sorry just checking if the rumours were true. You do have a lighting bolt scar."
Harry nodded shyly, "Yes…"
"You're going to Hogwarts right?"
Harry nodded again.
"Me too. I'm going to be in Slytherin. My parents were, my father's a great man but I'm going to be greater."
Harry couldn't resist a smile when he puffed up his chest like that. Draco reminded him of a peacock…
"What house do you think you'll be in?"
Harry shrugged only to get poked with a pin, "Ouch!"
"Don't wiggle so much child." The woman tittered at him
Harry winced.
"Ignore her." Draco counselled. "So?"
"I don't know. I think my parents were in Gryffindor…but I don't know."
Draco scowled, "They're an odd lot Gryffindors, always running off into danger and never thinking. Slytherins prefer to think things through first and then move."
Harry giggled, "I doubt I'd do that. I'd rather avoid being hurt…"
Draco looked at him and softened, "A wise choice. Let others rush in and play hero."
Harry smiled at him, he wasn't Leo but he reminded him of the first person who was ever kind to him. Then a cold chill hit him, what if something happened to Draco because he was kind to him? He deflated…that couldn't happen…Draco was too nice.
"You're done young Master Malfoy."
"Thank you." Draco said with icy politeness, then he turned back to Harry and gave him a smile as bright as the sun, "I would enjoy keeping up our acquaintance. I will look for you on the train."
Harry blushed and bowed his head.
A hand touched his arm and warmth flooded him like summer sunshine.
"I mean it. I'll look for you. It was nice meeting you," then his name fell from those lips like music he sometimes heard on the radio when Uncle Vernon was at work and Dudley was out of the house. "Harry Potter…"
The hand slide down his arm and pressed his hand, "Farewell for now. I look forward to our paths crossing."
The girl who had been measuring Draco twittered, "If he grows up to be like his father he'll be gorgeous. Any witch or wizard would be lucky to be bonded to him. Rumour has it the Malfoys have vaults filled with galleons."
"Amber!" the woman measuring him glared, "He's eleven! You're eighteen. It's unseemly to talk that way about a customer especially the heir of a Lord."
Harry blinked, what?
Harry was lost in his own thoughts while the woman measuring him finished up but continued lecturing the young woman beside her.
He was startled which she touched his shoulder, all the warmth Draco's touch had left him with disappeared in an instant.
Harry scowled at her for that.
The woman flushed, "My apologies young Master Potter. I merely wished to inform you that you were done. Where should I send your robes?"
Harry sighed, feeling bad for upsetting her. "Number Four Privet Drive, Little Whinging, Surrey. I live with Muggles…" he added nervously, the unfamiliar words falling unheeded from his lips.
The woman blinked, "Oh…then I shall arrange a night delivery. If anything isn't satisfactory you be sure to owl me. I'll be more than happy to assist you personally."
Harry nodded and walked away. Despite his previous decision not to have friends, Draco had made a deep impression. He missed him, which shocked him seeing as how they'd only met briefly…
Sighing he made his way out to the street.
Standing there was Hagrid with two ice cream cones.
The giant handed him one. "I really shouldn't but I wanted ter make up fer running off so sudden like."
Harry took a small bite; it was chocolate with a hint of fruit. Raspberries? He wasn't sure.
If wasn't like he'd tasted a large selection while Dudley wasn't fond of vegetables he did seem to like most fruits.
"Eat up, it won't melt but we can't take them in ter Flourish and Blotts." Then Hagrid frowned, "I saw that Malfoy kid come out. Did he give you any trouble?"
Harry shook his head, a smile lighting up his features. "He was really nice."
Hagrid looked around nervously, he leaned down, "Probably shunna be telling ya this but his da were one of those who worked fer You-Know-Who. I'd steer clear of him. His kind are always up to no good. Most ter the bad ones came out 'er Slytherin where he's likely ter end up."
Harry pouted; he wasn't allowed to be friends with someone nice like Draco? He remembered Leo and staggered, nothing must happen to Draco! "I don't see that he's bad. I liked him…he was so nice."
"Yer da didn't like 'em…but yer mum…her best friend were one…"
Harry blinked, was it okay?
They'd finished their ice cream.
"I don't like ter talk about blokes like Malfoy. Let's go buy yer books." Hagrid mumbled.
The conversation was closed and Harry felt a pain in his chest, like he'd been stabbed with a knife made of ice. He looked for Draco wildly, wanting him to make the pain and chill running through him go away.
But Draco was nowhere to be seen.
Crestfallen, Harry followed the giant with shuffling steps…
Hagrid grabbed the books he needed, pausing now and then to squint at Harry's list. Then he abruptly announced, "That ought ta do it. I think we got 'em all."
Harry shrugged.
Hagrid opened Harry's moneybag and paid for the books with a handful- well Harry-sized handful of gold and silver coins, mostly silver though.
Harry hugged himself feeling the chill still.
They walked back out into the hot sunshine but Harry couldn't feel it…
"Where ta next?" Hagrid's eyes looked all over, then he grinned. "I know! I'll buy ya a birfday present. That ought ter make ya smile."
Harry perked up a little at that.
Hagrid took his should in his huge hand that dwarfed him and led or more like dragged him towards a shop that read: Eylops Owl Emporium. "I'll buy yer animal. Not a cat too much hassle. Toads be dreary pets and outta style. Dunna wanna have ya laughed at. So I ginna buy ya an owl. Really nice critters owls. Dead useful. Carrying mail and all. Cats just sleep and eat. Lazy buggers. Toads just git themselves lost. So owl it is."
Being his first birthday present Harry didn't say anything, he was too grateful…
They entered the shop.
Hagrid had to stoop to enter but the ceiling was high. There were owls perched everywhere. They flew around as well…
An old wizened man approached them, "Can I help you?"
Hagrid pushed Harry forward, "We're hir fer his owl."
"I've got lots of owls. Snowy, Barn, Eagle. If it's an owl you want I've got lots of 'em."
Harry looked around with wonder…
Then one flew straight at him.
It circled around him and then landed on his shoulder startling him.
The talons gripped him gently; they didn't dig into his shoulder like the delivery owl this morning.
Harry turned to look at it.
The owl searched his face, then let out a soft hoot and nuzzled him.
Harry was stunned to see green eyes that looked back at him.
The man gasped, "She don't like no one. I'd given up hope she'd want anyone."
The owl hooted at him and glared before nuzzling Harry again.
Harry tentatively reached up to stroke her feathers. "Hey there girl. My name's Harry…"
The owl closed her eyes, seemed to enjoy the touch as much as he'd enjoyed it when Draco touched him.
"That will be seven gallons." The man stammered.
"Harry ye be wanting that one?"
The owl opened one eye and glared at him, opening her wings to block Harry from his sight.
Harry giggled; she didn't like Hagrid? Wow…he smiled, "I want her…"
The giant shrugged, "We'll need a cage."
Harry yelped, "Cage?" his eyes wide with horror.
Hagrid sighed, "Ya cinna carry about Muggle London wit an owl on yer shoulder. The cage be a transportation device like the rail. She be looking like whatever bird they think she ought ter be. A canary maybe."
The owl hooted at him imperiously like she understood him.
Harry stroked her gently, "I know you're not a canary girl…I'll keep you out of it as long as I can." He learned towards her head to whisper, "I don't like being locked up either." He shyly kissed her head. "I'll have to find a name for you girl."
She cooed at him.
Hagrid handed the man money for the cage that both the owl and Harry hated already.
They left the owl store.
The owl nudged him and gestured with her wing towards a place that had a sign that read, 'Slug and Jiggers'.
Harry tilted his head.
The owl pointed again.
Harry nodded, "Let's go there."
"Ya want ter get potions ingredients? Okay."
They headed inside.
The owl cooed at him pointing with her wing at things and nudged him gently with her beak.
A man came over, "Can I help you?"
Harry looked at his owl.
She cooed at him bobbing her head as if she was nodding.
Harry smiled and proceeded to order everything she nudged him about.
When the man asked how much of each, Harry turned to the owl and repeated what he asked.
His owl nodded at an amount.
Hagrid coughed, "I'll flattened by a hippogriff, the boy's daft. Letting an owl choose his potions ingredients? I never heard the like in all me born days."
Harry ignored him but the owl hooted at Hagrid and glared at him.
The owl finally curled up with her head under her wing.
Harry took that to mean that he was done.
They picked up his trunk, a bronze scale, a pewter cauldron; glass vials and paid a visit to Scribbulus where he picked up reams of parchment, quills and ink.
Harry almost chose green ink when a pot of silver ink caught his eye. He snatched it up, and cradling it to his chest.
He had to have…it reminded him of Draco's eyes…
He paid for the things at Scribbulus- well Hagrid did since he had his money.
"Only yer wand now. Ollivanders. Best place fer wands."
They headed farther up the street.
There was a tiny looking shop that read, 'Ollivanders Fine Wands since 3BC.'
Somehow Harry thought that was bragging and most likely false.
They entered and there was Draco…
Harry gasped, a smile crossing his features.
Draco spun towards him and smirked, "Good Afternoon Harry."
His parents turned towards him.
One was an older man, who clearly resembled Draco.
Draco gestured at him, "Harry this is my father Lord Lucius Malfoy. Father this is Harry Potter. He made my acquaintance while you and mother purchased my books."
"Potter." The man inclined his head.
"Harry we cin come back later."
Harry shook his head, "I'm staying. I've never purchased a wand before. I'd like to see how it's done."
A soft cough.
Draco turned to the woman perched on a chair, "My apologies mother. Harry, this is my mother Lady Narcissa Malfoy."
Harry ignored Hagrid and made his way over, he held out his hand palm up.
The woman placed her hand over his.
Harry remembered something from the telly and bowed over it and lightly skimming it with his lips.
"A gentleman. You do your House proud. Potter is it? Your grandmother was my father's aunt. I suppose that makes you and my dear Draconis cousins."
Harry grinned turning to Draco, "Well you are a far cry better looking then Dudley."
"Who is this Dudley?" Narcissa asked, "I know of no wizard of your age with that name."
Harry sighed, "I am afraid he isn't one, a wizard I mean. He's a Muggle and a rather pathetic one. I am thoroughly ashamed of the relation. I am afraid that they feel the same way. They think that my having magic is a disgrace…"
"A Potter a disgrace?" Lucius snipped, "You'd have to be squib for that and there hasn't been one for over fifteen generations. They are a proud and honourable Family. They lost some status when your father married socially beneath him. Since the Head of that Family condoned the relationship, they merely lost some face rather than being declared bloodtraitors."
"What is a Bloodtraitor?" Harry asked quietly, it sounded awful and he resolved to never have it applied to himself.
"Someone who has betrayed their blood in some fashion; broken a contract, betrayed a family member, in short dragged their family's name and honour through the theoretical mud."
Harry nodded, "I shall do my best to never become one then."
"See that you do. I would hate to forbid my son to keep your company." Lucius said stiffly.
The old man cleared his throat, "I'm afraid I'll have call for a second opinion. It seems that your son is particularly difficult to pair."
"I want an Ollivander's wand." Lucius glared.
"An Ollivander's wand you shall have. I tend to only work with three cores. It seems as fine a wand as I make, your son doesn't suit them. Let me summon my cousin Louis. He runs a wand shop in the Rue de Leon district."
"I told you Lucius, we ought to have tried there. I've heard nothing but praise for his wands from my French acquaintances." Narcissa said quietly.
Lucius glared and she sniffed.
Draco caught Harry's eye and winked.
He staggered backwards a step.
His owl woke up and made an annoyed sound.
Draco gasped, "Is it a boy owl or a girl?"
Harry moved closer, "She's a girl."
"I had to send my owl home with a house elf. His name is Ebony and he's a big dark owl." Draco reached into his pocket and pulled out a packet of owl treats. He held one out, "Here girl."
To Hagrid's dumbfounded amazement and Harry's joy, his owl gave Draco a piercing look before delicately taking the treat. She ate and then landed gently on Draco's shoulder and nuzzled him.
Harry giggled, "The shop man said she didn't like anyone. She liked me. I'm so glad she likes you too."
"My apologies once more my Lord. This is my cousin Louis."
The two looked more alike then he and Dudley did.
They both had the same brown eyes and white hair. They were close in size but Louis had the hands of an artist.
Louis bowed, "I shall endeavour to find you the best match. If I don't have your wand, I'll make it. You can ask Miss Delacour of Beauxbatons. She wields one of my finest creations: a Rosewood and Veela hair wand."
Draco and Lucius glanced at one another before Lucius spoke. "Veela hair? That's a rare choice it not? The hair must be freely given…"
The man nodded, "Let me see. Wand arm?"
Draco held up his left hand.
"Interesting. Favourite Quidditch team."
"Appleby Arrows." Draco said without hesitation.
Harry wondered what Quidditch was…
"Favourite branches of study?"
"Charms, Potions and Ancient Runes."
"Dream career Post-Hogwarts?"
"Potions Master."
"Hm…" the man said circling him before turning to his mother, "his pet Kneazel walks in limping. Does he hurry to her side or call for a house elf?"
Narcissa blinked, "He picks it up, washes it and then calls me."
Lucius seemed both intrigued and confused.
"Best Friend."
"Blaise Zabini."
Harry winced.
"Ah you stick together your kind. There are subtle differences between you."
Narcissa coughed.
"I didn't mean appearance my lady. I meant in personality. Young Master Pucey purchased a Rowan wand in my shop not two years ago. While young Zabini bears an Abraxan hair and Ivy wand "
"What is with the questions sir?" Harry frowned.
"What is your name young man?" the man asked him kindly.
"Harry Potter."
"Ah yes we sold wands to your parents. Lily had one of mine and James had one of Garrick's. Lily's was the better wand; Hippogriff feather and Willow. It sang. Nothing like Snape's though: Acacia and Abraxan hair, powerful and quite suitable. I hear he's done great things." Louis chuckled.
"The wand?" Lucius sniffed.
"Yes yes, wand. Charms, Potions and Ancient Runes? Appleby Arrows? Has a Veela best friend. Likely…yes…very likely. You fly?"
"Yes sir. I want to be a Seeker."
"Good luck with that. You've got the talent for it. Wind element affinity and all. Definitely Slytherin."
Draco did that peacock thing again…
Harry chuckled and his owl prodded Draco with her wing. Like a mother shaking her finger.
Not that Aunt Petunia ever did such a thing to Dudley but he'd seen it in the store when he'd been dragged there…
"Abraxan. Yes…feather because of the wind affinity. Now for the wand wood." He narrowed, his eyes, "Protective yes…friendly, tendency to gentle but quick to defend. Rowan. Nothing else would do. I have the wand. I had three but Adrian Pucey got a Rowan wand two years ago. His was a Hippogriff Talon though. I think I have one with an Abraxan Feather. Perhaps two…be right back." he was gone with a pop.
"He can Apparate?" Lucius asked curious.
"Only Ollivanders. It only works on us. Side-along Apparation doesn't work. The wards would toss the companion outside the wards but they don't Apparate. Safety measure."
"Curious…" Lucius said thoughtfully.
"Now what about you?" Garrick Ollivander turned to Harry.
Harry shook his head, "Beg pardon sir." He said softly, was he channelling Prince William or something? "I would like your cousin to fit me to a wand."
"Highly unusual but for Harry Potter anything. At least it keeps you in the family."
Harry wanted a wand made by the same man as Draco…it mattered.
The other Ollivander returned presently holding out one of the two wand cases. "Bless me I did have two."
Draco reverently accepted one and opened it.
The wand leapt against his hand.
Harry watched awed as Draco's fingers wrapped around it immediately.
"Seeker's reflexes." The man pronounced at the instant the wand started sparking like a Firework at the Queen's Birthday Celebration.
Harry was awed, "That's what happens when a wand chooses you?"
Draco looked down at it, "This is mine. My own wand. I've been waiting for this moment my whole life."
Harry moved to hug him.
Lucius was stunned, Narcissa shocked and Hagrid ill at the sight.
Draco grinned at him and hugged him gently, "Your turn."
Harry turned to Louis Ollivander. "You heard him. I'd like a turn."
"This ain't a game Harry." Hagrid called out.
Harry's owl glared and hooted threateningly at him.
"Harry Potter." Louis Ollivander said circling him. "Subjects most interested in?"
"Transfiguration and Charms."
The adults blinked.
"The wand I sold your mother was keen for Charms. My cousin's wand your father bought was gifted for Transfiguration. I think that does them both credit."
Harry grinned; he knew next to nothing about his parents and every tiny piece he treasured.
"Name a magical creature."
"Dragon."
"Favourite colour."
Harry blushed, "Silver."
Draco stared at him.
"Do you want to fly?"
Harry nodded.
"Hm…you see someone bleeding. Do you run for help or do you see to them first."
Harry turned pale, "I check on them while screaming for someone anyone…" He staggered thinking of Leo.
"Interesting…"
"Favourite Quidditch team."
"What?" then a name popped into his head, "Wait, the Falcons."
They all looked at him strangely.
"The Falmouth Falcons?" Lucius asked. "That was James' Potter's favourite team. How do you know it?"
Harry sighed, "I don't know. I wasn't even sure it was a team…it just seemed familiar."
"The Falcons aren't bad. If you'd said the Cannons we would have to stop being friends. They are so terrible, they have not won a match in over one hundred and twenty years." Draco said in shock.
"You're walking a path and come to a point where it splits into three paths. One goes towards the mountains, one to the sea and one to a forest. Which do you choose?" Louis asked.
Harry grinned, "The sea. I've never been to the beach. I would love to go."
"Craves new experience and adventure."
"Not if it comes with danger." Harry said sternly. "I don't like Danger." Or pain, he thought to himself.
"Do you like learning?"
Harry frowned, "I used to…before school became unpleasant and getting good marks got me in trouble." Then he grinned, "I'm going to a new school without Dudley. I can get as high marks as I want. I think I'm going to fall in love with learning again."
"Interesting. Caring. Compassionate. Craves new experiences, loves learning. Falcons. Hippogriff. Most definitely, Hippogriff Feathers I'd wager. They are strong for Charm work. They make a very versatile wand that is renowned for adaptability. Demands respect from wielder; misuse will result in unpredictable faulty magic. Not most powerful, but largely reliable. Most commonly I've found with it pairs with Gryffindors."
Harry frowned, "I don't want to be one…"
"Harry all Potters are in Gryffindor…" Hagrid yelped.
"Do be quiet." Lucius snapped. "I don't know why the Board keeps you on…"
"Because Dumbledore believes in me."
"The wandwood cousin?" Garrick asked.
"Just a minute. Almost had it…" then Louis grinned, "That's it." He punched his hand, "Hazel. Hazel is strongly associated with Light magic and Healing. It is versatile, very well suited to Charms and Transfiguration. Also inclined toward Divination. Associated with wisdom, communication, inspiration and change. Other meanings; can be reconciliation and peace."
"Perfect…" Draco breathed.
"Healing? Is that something like being a doctor?" Harry asked quizzically.
Lucius scoffed, "Our healers are more skilled and have a better record of treatment for the Muggle disease cancer."
Harry smiled, "I'd like to be a Healer. I want to help people."
Hagrid sputtered.
"I think your parents would find that commendable." Narcissa spoke up. "Your mother worked in the Department of Experimental Charms before her Bonding. Your father was an Auror, he brought injured persons to healers but his job was to protect people."
"I don't want to go into danger if I can help it. I'd rather help those who do." Harry said softly.
"He cinna have a wand like that. Harry be needin' something stronger. A wand fer a leader, someone who has charisma." Hagrid protested.
Lucius scowled, "The Ollivanders are the foremost experts on wands you dolt. The cost of Draco's wand?"
"Twelve Galleons my Lord. The core came from the prize stallion at the Beauxbatons' stables and I had to pay to take a cutting from The Rowans." Louis said swiftly.
"Lord Wood actually let you take a cutting from their Rowans?" Lucius stared.
Louis nodded, "I am an Ollivander. The Rowans have extremely powerful trees, they are the only rowan wood I work with."
"I see."
"Now I shall return with the Hazel and Hippogriff wand."
And then Louis Ollivander was gone.
He popped back in immediately.
"I didn't know transatlantic Apparition was safe." Lucius asked.
"Normally it isn't. However, technically it isn't apparition, its use of the two-points spell. Instead of having two store fronts and one store, we can use the two-points spell to move from one store to the other." Louis held out the wand case to Harry. "Give it a try."
Harry took it, the moment his hands touched the box it hummed. He lifted the lid; it opened like Uncle Vernon's cigar box. As his hand reached the top of the box and hovered over the wand it flung itself into his hand and let off blue, green, silver and gold sparks.
"That is how you match a wand cousin. I told you that your shoving wands at them is a foolhardy practice. As is limiting yourself to only three cores, that's as foolish and irresponsible as only using Holly, Oak and Ash. If you ever do that our family has died out as the foremost wandmakers. If your way was perfect you could have matched the Malfoy heir."
"I might have been able to match Young Master Potter to one of my wands if he'd let me."
"He wanted a perfect match. Something we wandmakers aspire to." Louis frowned, "Which is why you summoned me, your attempts failed."
Garrick pouted.
Which caused Harry to wonder exactly who was older…
"Draco, I believe it is time to go."
Draco clasped Harry's hand, "This was a rewarding experience that I was glad to share with you."
Harry's owl nuzzled him before returning to Harry.
Draco smiled at her, "Farewell Amaryllis. You take good care of Harry."
The owl cooed and nuzzled Harry.
Harry blinked, "Is that her name?"
Draco grinned, "It's what she wants to be called."
Harry kissed the top of her head, "Nice to meet you Amaryllis." He smiled at Draco, "Thank you, I couldn't go on calling her girl or owl forever."
"She would have found a way to communicate with you." Draco chuckled.
Harry giggled, "She already does. She picked out all my potions ingredients and even told me how much."
Narcissa blinked, "That is highly unusual."
"It seems like she's a mothering sort." Lucius said gently, "I've never seen an owl with eyes like yours."
"A pleasure to meet you young Harry." Narcissa said with a soft smile.
Draco bowed, "Until we meet again Harry Potter…"
Harry paid for his wand and a holster that he attached to the belt of his over large trousers.
"Harry we've gotta head back." Hagrid stammered.
"Oh?"
"You've gotta return ter the Dursleys."
Harry pouted, "Why?"
"They be your family and the magic that protect ya only works there."
"Oh…"
Hagrid shook the cage, "We're going back out inta Muggle London. She's gotta be in this here."
Harry flinched, "No…I can't cage her. Can't you just make her invisible?"
"I don't have me wand. I am not ter use magic."
Harry grumbled, "You had no problem using it on the boat or Dudley and now you won't use it so my owl doesn't have to be imprisoned? She's not done anything wrong…"
"The only other way be that she flies there herself. She don't be knowin' da way."
"Number Four Privet Drive, Little Whinging, Surrey." Harry said quickly. "Can you find it?"
Amaryllis nodded.
"Then please fly. I don't want to lock you up..."
Amaryllis shook her head.
"Please? It's terrible to be locked up. I don't want to do it…please?"
Amaryllis hooted and flew right into the cage glaring at the giant.
"See even the owl knows what's right."
Harry burst into tears, "It's too small. She can't stretch her wings."
Hagrid shut the cage door, "Owls be caged when travelling in Muggle London. It be custom. Owls be considered by Muggles ter be frightenin', dangerous, predators. We think of 'em as the post."
Harry snatched the cage and cradled it, "I'll let you out as soon as I can." Then he cheered, "At least it isn't dark…"
Hagrid led him back through Diagon Alley; he purchased one ticket to Little Whinging, Surrey at the rail station. Then led Harry to a McDonalds where he bought him a hamburger kid's meal and himself a Big Mac.
Harry sighed, reaching in to find a hot wheels car. He took small bites but the greasy burger wasn't agreeing with him. Harry tore off a bit and fed it to Amaryllis, "Here girl. Just until we get home…"
She ate it and then rubbed her feathered head against his hand.
Then Hagrid took him back to the rail station, "Here be today's ticket. You'll go back to Surrey alone." He reached into his coat, "This be yer ticket. Be at King's Cross Station before eleven on September 1st. The Hogwarts' Express leaves at exactly eleven. Do not be late. It waits for nobody. Not even Harry Potter. Since you be livin' wit' Muggles it be ter only way ter school for ya. "
Harry checked to be sure he had everything, he hated to think it but something about this man wasn't trustworthy. He wanted to like him because he said he was a friend of his parents but he had a hard time believing it.
Hagrid put him on the train and left immediately, he didn't even wait for the train to pull away before striding through the crowd.
Harry looked down at the owl in his arms. "Well Amaryllis, I guess it's just you and me now."
She cooed and lightly pecked his hand.
Harry closed his eyes, he'd never been alone on a train before and it was more than a little scary. Why couldn't Hagrid take him back to the Dursleys? He had a feeling that it was really bad for him to be alone on the train and clutched Amaryllis tighter.
He hated the Dursleys but he would rather be somewhere he knew the dangers then somewhere he didn't.
XoooooX
Hagrid stepped back into the Leaky Cauldron throwing back a pint of ale before paying the sickle to use Tom's floo.
He emerged in Dumbledore's office.
"So Harry's on his way home then?"
Albus was sitting in his high backed chair and facing the hearth.
Hagrid nodded, "It were most disturbing. Harry seemed ter be unaware of his parents names much less who they were. His idiot uncle wants ter sent him to some place called Stonewall. He may have trouble. I mighta lost me temper. His cousin has a pig tail."
"Now Rubeus I told you to be careful and not use magic after picking up Harry. So he went to Diagon? He picked up his school things?"
"Yes Albus. Oh here be ter package ya asked me to get "
Albus said taking the small package, "Thank you Rubeus. Now Minerva complained his letter was late."
"My apologies. I had such a hard time flying in ther storm. The owl I had were already tired and wet. I let her sleep and sent her out at breakfast. If the Muggle hadn't distracted me I mighta let ta owl dry and den let her fly." He frowned, "Harry ran in ter the young Malfoy boy in Madam Malkin's."
"You didn't let them speak right? You took him out and made him come back later correct?"
Hagrid swallowed, "No Professor. I dinna know until after they'd met. I er let Harry get measured for his robes and went to get something ter settle me stomach. Those carts they got at Gringotts are torture."
"You went to get a drink you fool. What was Harry's opinion of Malfoy?" Albus said trying to keep his temper.
"He thinks he's nice. I saw them tergether. Malfoy is nice. His parents were nice too. It were unsettlin'. I dinna know what ter think."
"Well what happened?"
"They got wands from Louis Ollivander."
"What? NO! He's supposed to have one of Garrick's. Harry's supposed to have a Holly and Phoenix feather wand. This changes everything…"
"Me apologies Professor. I've got to see me animals and see that thir taken care of." Hagrid bowed.
Dumbledore waved in dismissal.
Hagrid left quickly.
XoooooX
Albus tossed his wine goblet across the room. "That stupid oaf! Out drinking on duty and lets Harry meet that Malfoy brat! I've got to prevent them from being friends. I have to make them hate each other." He steepled his fingers, "Who hates the Malfoys the most?"
He smirked, "Weasleys. They haven't forgiven the Malfoys in five generations. Not since they both lost the same heiress. They should have just agreed to a triad. They drove the poor witch to suicide. Now they blame the other for her death. Yes…the Weasleys have young Ronald who is in their year. I am sure he would adore to be the best friend of Harry Potter. The youngest of six sons being the friend of the Boy-Who-Lived is a good way to outshine his brothers. Now, it helps that they all believe that Young Harry vanquished Voldemort at the tender age of fifteen months. Everyone believes he's this great Hero. I'll be sure to help perpetuate that. Now I've let rumours fly that I've got Nicolas' Philosopher's Stone here. Tom will try to break into Gringotts only to find I've beaten him once again. He'll come here…I'll lay a trap for Harry. He'll have no choice but to accept his destiny. That boy will hang on my every word…he'll do what I say."
He paused to toss powder in the floo, "Ottery St. Catchpole, The Burrow."
The fire flashed green.
The very colour annoyed him, just like a Slytherin to choose a colour that praised their house with every crackle and pop.
He used magic to move his chair closer to the fire and stuck his head in.
To his eminent pleasure there was Molly Weasley.
He snapped, "Molly?"
She turned bowed, "Oh Albus, what a surprise. How can I help you?"
"I would like to speak to you and young Ronald."
"Oh yes. Let me find him and we'll be right through.
Albus sat back and waited.
Not ten minutes later Molly stepped through with her youngest son.
"You wished to see us Albus? I can't stay long. I've got Ginny watching dinner. She's barely ten and doesn't have a wand. I'll have to keep the floo connection open so she can call me back."
Albus gave her one of his more sincere looking twinkling smiles. "You see I have a small problem I sincerely hope that young Ronald could assist me." He gestured from Molly to sit on the chair that moved to set beside him.
Molly clasped her hands in her lap as she sat, "Anything Albus. You know that."
"You see young Harry Potter went to get his school things today. His guardian was a bit remiss. I let myself be persuaded to let Hagrid be Harry's staff escort to Diagon Alley. Now I hadn't realized that Hagrid's drinking was so bad. He left Harry alone in Madam Malkin's."
"Did something happen there Albus?" Molly asked worried, "Was he hurt?"
Albus sighed, removing his glasses and pressing a hand to his eyes, "Worse…he met young Draco Malfoy…"
"What did that git do?" Ron sneered.
"He was polite and has Harry believing he is a decent sort. Now Molly you remember James, I am sure you can just imagine what he would say if he knew his precious heir were friends with a Malfoy." Albus said with an inner sneer.
"Oh I can only imagine. It took him five years to convince poor befuddled Lily Evans that Snape was no good. He actually showed his true colours and called her, the poor dear, a…" her face twisted with distaste, "I beg your pardon, a Mudblood…" she turned to Ron, "If I ever hear you say that I'll let Fred and George come up with a nasty punishment."
Ronald paled, "Yes Mum."
Albus nodded sagely, "Now imagine how Harry would feel when Malfoy treats him the same way and called him a dirty Halfblood, the Mudblood's son, the son of a Bloodtraitor. We know what damage such words can do."
Molly swallowed, "I understand, that poor sweet boy. He can't be put through that. What do you need of us?"
Albus winked at Ronald, "I would like you to befriend young Harry. Keep him and Malfoy apart. Instigate fights with Malfoy and make it look like you are the poor misused party."
Ron snickered, "I can do that. I make Percy think that all the time. That's why he dislikes the twins."
Albus nodded, "I knew I could count on you. We can't let Harry be seduced to the side of Dark Wizards. Just imagine what someone with Harry's power could do if he went Dark."
Ron gasped, "That can't happen."
"Of course not. Which is why you have to keep him from having much time to study. Distract him. I'm sure he hasn't had much chance to play and knows nothing of our World. He should be kept in ignorance about who he is in society beyond the Boy-Who-Lived. No mention of his being rich, no mention of his being the son of a Lord."
Ron nodded, "No one every remembers that Dad is grandfather's heir…"
Molly snorted, "Oh I doubt that. Septimus the old coot is furious with your father. He keeps threatening to bypass him as heir. He says it will either be Bill or Cadmus. He would have named Bilius but he died."
"From a Grim sighting…" Ron mumbled.
Albus barely restrained a chuckle. That 'Grim' was Sirius the idiot who was loping around. Some people were so foolish. "Now I can depend on you can't I Ronald?"
Ron puffed out his chest, "Of course Headmaster. I'll keep Malfoy far away from Harry."
A small redheaded girl stuck her head in the floo, "Mum!"
"Coming Ginny dear. Albus you must come over for supper sometime. You'll need a good meal one in a while. One can't live on school food all the time."
Albus chuckled, "I shall keep that in mind."
The two Weasleys returned to the floo.
Albus remembered, tomorrow he was going to be escorting the Muggleborn witch Granger. He had been watching her since her name appeared in his book of enrolled students. She was brilliant, the next Lily Evans and he wasn't sending someone else to meet her.
XoooooX
Harry woke to feel a hand on his thigh, and Amaryllis hooting angrily.
His eyes sprang open and he noticed a man in a business suit sitting beside him and touching his leg. He swallowed, "Please sir, can you move your hand?"
The man grinned at him, "Why certainly."
He did…just not off of Harry's body. It moved between his legs and started touching him there.
Harry squeaked and tried to pull away. "No! Don't touch me."
The man's face changed, "I don't see why not. No one is watching. It's too crowded and they can't hear you." He squeezed him.
Harry shouted, "NO!"
Then the same odd sensation when he found himself on the school roof happened again.
He curled up, rocking Amaryllis' cage and sobbed.
She crooned at him as if to say he was safe now.
Then he looked around and saw he was in the corner of the yard of his aunt and uncle's house, just out of sight of the street.
Why? He knew Hagrid leaving him alone was bad. He was so scared. Why did someone do that? It had never happened before…
Then a car pulled into the drive and parked.
Harry scrubbed way his tears and walked over still clutching Amaryllis' cage.
"You're home freak. Empty the car." His uncle said gruffly.
Harry nodded, taking Amaryllis' cage in one hand and reaching into the boot for his uncle's suitcase.
Silently he followed them in.
He paused to set the cage in his cupboard.
His aunt yelled, "No! You'll sleep in Dudley's second bedroom."
"But Mummy! That's mine!"
"Dudders Mummy and Daddy decided that Harry has to have it. You don't want the big bad man to come back do you?"
His fat cousin was sobbing, "No…"
Harry sighed, "Yes ma'am."
He walked upstairs; he stopped to put Amaryllis and the trunk in the dreary room. It was the tiniest bedroom it had once been a nursery. It was filled with Dudley's broken possessions and his first bed. Now he had a big boy room and Harry was going to be living here. It was so dusty. He wished he knew magic to make look clean and shiny like it never was ever dirty like some of those shops in Diagon Alley.
He set Amaryllis on top of the dresser, then he opened her cage, "You have to be quiet in the house girl. I'll open the window. I promise to leave it open but it might be good to stay outside for a bit."
She hopped onto his shoulder and nuzzled him. Her eyes seemed to tell him to be careful.
Harry kissed her feathered head and then emptied his pockets of his purchases before her closed the door and carried his uncle's suitcase to their bedroom.
He made sure it wasn't dusty before he set it on the foot of the bed. It was so he used his overlarge shirt to wipe it off. He didn't want to be yelled at for getting their bed dirty. He scurried back out to grab his aunt and one of Dudley's suitcases. Dudley always had one for his clothes and a second for games or his souvenirs.
Harry had meant it when he said he hadn't gone anywhere on vacation and would choose the beach. He sighed, he had been sad to realise that the lake where the hut on the rock was, was actually the sea.
It had been nothing like he'd imagine or been told about…
He was yelled at to come to the table.
They were eating Chinese take-away.
Harry sighed and sat; not exactly hungry because he'd had the Happy Meal that Hagrid bought for him earlier.
He was dished up a plate of mostly vegetables.
Which made sense Dudley hated them….
He also was given the pineapple from Dudley's sweet and sour chicken. He liked the broccoli and onions from Dudley's Broccoli Beef.
Dudley ate the carrots…
He got the cabbage and bean spouts from the chow mien.
"Go ahead and eat. Or are you too high and mighty to eat with us now freak?" His uncle snarled.
Harry bent his head and started to eat.
He was pleased to find that the pineapple settled his stomach.
He still felt dirty because of the man on the train…
His food was soon snatched away.
"Go to your room. I don't want to see your face freak. You can eat this for breakfast."
Harry didn't mind leftovers. He usually got what they didn't want or like. He asked softly, "May I bathe? I would hate to dirty Dudley's old bed with the gunk from London and the rail all over me."
"Yes!" his aunt snapped, "Maybe you can wash the freakishness out of you. You spent time with them and ought to wash it off."
At least Draco and his parents were far nice then the Dursleys. He sighed and went to dig his own things from his cupboard. His ratty blankets, his two plastic soldiers and the picture he drew in kindergarten. He also had his clothes…
It was of a man with dark hair and light brown eyes, a woman with green eyes and a red hair, they were holding hands with a small boy who looked like them. Well he had black hair and green eyes. Beside them was a bassinet with a little girl in it.
At the corner was a boy with blonde hair…
He'd drawn it the day he met Leo, his first day of kindergarten.
Harry looked down and saw that the eyes of the blonde weren't blue at all…they were a soft grey.
He swore he remembered using a blue crayon…
Sighing he walked up the stairs.
He found some of the drawers in the dresser empty. He folded his clothes ad put them away. He grabbed an overlarge nightshirt and clean pants. Harry scurried like a mouse running from a cat into the bathroom. He stripped folding his dirty clothes and set them on the counter. He pulled an old towel out from under the counter and turned on the water. He stepped in, he would have preferred a hot shower but that wasn't an option. He grabbed the soap and preceded to scrub anywhere he thought the man had touched him.
Harry washed his hair using the soap and rinsed. He wasn't allowed to use the shampoo and conditioners.
Shivering he turned off the water and reached for the towel, he felt cleaner but not clean enough. Harry dried quickly and dressed, before padding to his room and closing the door. He set his dirty things in a basket, minus the towel when he hung on a coat hook behind the door.
Harry made sure the window was still open and curled up on the converted toddler bed and covered himself with his blankets from the cupboard.
He felt so alone and unwanted…
He wished he had Draco to talk to…
XoooooX
Ieson watched in silent grief…
The machinations of a power mad man…
Harry, he reminded him so much of his bonded and his son but he was neither.
The curse of immortality…
His magic rendered him infertile by choice.
Wicce believed that they would be reborn…
So like a besotted fool, he waited all these centuries for Cadmus…he wanted him back. A new start…
The legacy of their love, would Cadmus keep his promise?
Why? Was it not enough to keep him imprisoned, to steal his feathers and make him die and be reborn at his whim?
He wanted to hate the man…
Yet he could not…
He was trapped, only burning when he died and never escaping. He'd lost track of the years he'd lived in torment.
At least the phoenix mascot of that Quidditch team had an excuse; he was the coach's lover.
He had no friends, no one who would come for him or they would have before.
Even if Cadmus returned, how would they meet if he were trapped here?
He wept…
"Poor little phoenix? Did I hurt your feelings?" the man narrowed his eyes, "Now I wonder why Harry didn't get that wand? He was supposed to…"
No he wasn't. He couldn't explain that. He knew Harry for what he was…he felt the day he was born. He had held no hope that one such as he might be born.
Harry was wild, untamed magic, he needed training. Training he would not be allowed to have.
Ieson screamed in frustration.
XoooooX
Instead of his usually nightmare Harry found himself outside an unfamiliar house.
Standing there was a gorgeous man, with dark hair flecked with gold and crimson. He had violet eyes…
He smiled at him, "Hello there Harry. My name is Ieson."
Harry blushed, "How do you know my name?"
"Because I am the guardian of your family, the keeper of its secrets. I am going to tell you two stories. You must listen."
Harry nodded taking a seat.
"Once there were three brothers who travelled far away to indulge in magical research. At the end of their term, they met together to show off their work.
The eldest revealed a wand; he had created a wand that was so powerful it could not be beaten. One capable of repairing broken wands anew…
The middle brother created a stone that allowed him to see his lost love in the Veil.
The youngest…"
At this his voice cracked with pain and anguish, "He created a cloak that rendered him invisible to sight. No amount of spells could force it to reveal itself. They left to return home. At the first inn Antioch, the eldest told a story of how they had been travelling. That they came across a river so wide it could not be walked through, with a current so fast it pulled you under at once. Using their magic, they created a bridge. At the end of the bridge waiting for them was Death. He was furious to be cheated of his prey. He pretended to congratulate them for beating him and offered them a prize. Only the youngest,"
His voice caught and came out like a wail, "Cadmus thought there was something wrong and kept silent. Antioch asked for an unbeatable wand. Death took a branch off a nearby Elder tree and handed it to him. The middle brother asked for a stone to bring back the dead. Death summoned a stone from the river and gave it to him. Then they all turned to Cadmus…"
Ieson swallowed, "He asked for a way to hide from death. Death laughed and gave him his own invisibility cloak. It was just a story but there was one who believed. They slipped into their room at the inn. They stabbed Antioch and stole his wand. Soon after returning the middle brother Ignotus was Bonded. After she conceived, he locked himself away with his stone. Finally, taking his own life to be with his beloved.
The third brother had one child, a son. He told them this story and gave them the cloak. Then he went to embrace death as an old friend."
Harry searched his face, "You knew him…you loved him…"
Ieson swallowed, "The second is our story. One your father ought to have passed to you. Yet he died before he could, leaving me to tell the story. Cadmus was bent; his desires were for what you call now Wizards. He never met anyone he could love. I was on the run. Every so many years a phoenix is fertile and can bear a child. Some less then scrupulous men tried to force me. When they finally found me exhausted and collapsed I was just outside the wards of Cadmus' house. They told him someone was in danger. He came and rescued me. He let me stay. Slowly we fell in love. I taught him about fire magic yet never told him what I was. I couldn't…the first night we slept together as lovers I felt life inside me. I begged him to promise me one thing, that he give me a place to call my own that he must never venture into. He swore with an open trusting heart of one madly in love. That night I left him, heading to the room he granted me. It was the deepest part of the manor, an empty cellar. I summoned the things I needed for my nest. Phoenix birthing nests are powerful places that must be safe even when the bearer is away. There I laid my precious child. I became a being of fire, a bird of flame. I had to keep the child warm, to let him grow. I loved him with all my heart. I loved Cadmus and hated to leave him but I must, if only to give our child life. I loved them so…the happiness was not to be. Cadmus listened to whispers, that I was unfaithful. So he broke his promise. Following me to the cellar and discovering my secret."
At this the man broke down and wept, "I had to leave, I could not stay as much I wanted to. Fate was still good to me and I was able to see my son's face. Cadmus named him Cador Jason. He raised him with all the love he had. On his seventeenth birthday he told our son these stories. That night I came to him. Cadmus was dying and it was my time to burn. We burned together. I have burnt many times since then but I am waiting…"
Harry whispered, "Waiting for what?"
"For him to come I have watched many of his family be born and reborn but I have yet to see Cadmus. I miss him, I'm immortal and I have spent more unhappy centuries without him. We had nine beautiful months of joy…a child…"
"The moral is that one must always trust one's lover…" Harry said moving to hug the man who merely looked a few years older than himself.
"Yes…" Ieson sobbed.
"Where are you?" Harry asked softly.
"Trapped. Imprisoned. I cannot help you physically young one but I can this way. We must train. I will teach you and you must listen. The more you train, the stronger you shall be and the greater your reward. You are my heir."
Harry was pulled down to his head lay in Ieson' lap.
"Sleep young one. Nightmares shall not torment you this night. I shall watch over you."
Harry trusted him implicitly, without the wariness of others he'd met. He had the same connection with this one as he did with Amaryllis…

What do you think? Outstanding? Exceeds Expectations? Acceptable? Poor? Dreadful? Troll?
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Of Shield and Sheath