Harry thanked Trisky for breakfast as he left the kitchen. Thinking about the changes that had happened over the past three weeks took up his time as he walked down towards the sitting room off of the library that looked out over the gorge.
Sitting down in the chair closest to the window Harry was lost in thought.
It was interesting to find out how this world differed from the one he left behind, for one thing it seemed as if the Voldermort here was not as advanced in his war against anything not pureblooded.
It was a shock to find out that Voldermort was also active in this world, but as he went over the news clippings of his attacks he noticed that he had not yet branched out into the massive Muggle and blood traitor killings he did in this time period in his own world.
Picking up his copy of the rise of Voldermort that was one of the better ones to chronicle the first war back in his own dimension Harry continued his comparison of the differences from both worlds.
So far it seemed that the biggest difference was that the Blacks had denounced Voldermort in this dimension and had not distanced themselves from their oldest son.
In fact it looked like the Blacks in this dimension were typically sorted into Ravenclaw.
Setting his book aside Harry decided he needed more information, and the only place he was going to get it was going into Hogsmeade and nosing around and maybe spending some time in the bookstore.
A self updating copy of Hogwarts a History would be a good idea as one of his purchases also.
Toby who had a secret love of books and learning came over to pick up some of the books Harry had finished earlier. “Is Emerald Eyes Sir finished with his books?”
Looking up Harry smiled. “Thank you Toby you can shelf these books now I am finished with them.”
Picking up the book from his home dimension Harry added. “If you would put this one back in my private library I would be grateful.”
Toby bounced in joy at being allowed to shelf books in Sirs private Library, he was the only house elf allowed in the private library.
Gently taking the book from Harry’s hands he clutched it to his chest and popped from the room eager to do his job.
Laughing at the little fellows antics Harry stood up and walked over to the railing of the balcony that overlooked the massive cavern inside the mountainous cliff face.
The exact same cavern that held his library that was as large as Hogwarts was big.
Smiling at seeing several of the house elves sitting around one of the tables avidly reading Harry started for the kitchen to get some money for the day’s excursion.
He had to hand it to himself it was a masterpiece even if he was the only one patting himself on the back. Once he realized that the house elves would do anything in their power to make sure they did not slight the High Ones honor.
Harry had simply suggested that if they studied the books and knowledge he would set aside for them they would understand the best way to avoid any issues that would touch upon the honor of the High Elves.
The house elves were so eager to please and scared of bringing dishonor to him that they eagerly jumped into the course of study he laid out.
The upside to this was not only were they better educated and their speech patterns had improved, but they were also settling down and not so fearful around him thinking they were about to do or say something that would anger him.
As it was early enough Trisky had not started to plan lunch Harry told her he would be eating lunch out while doing some shopping in Hogsmeade.
Refilling his money sack and stuffing it back into one of his belt compartments Harry made his way towards the transport circle in the hospital barn.
He would give a quick glance at the few patients in the area on his way out.
Peeking around the corner of the one stalls Harry glanced at the unicorn mother nursing her foal and smiled seeing he was playfully nudging his mother’s udder.
Glancing into the other stall that held the injured wolf that showed up this morning he saw that Isty and her apprentice were busy applying wound closing salve to the sad looking wolf.
Nodding his head at how well everything had been taken care of the last couple of weeks Harry stepped into the transport circle and willed it to activate sending him to the one closest to Hogsmeade.
Seeing that it was such a warm day Harry applied an obscuring and notice me not charm on his ears and started to walk towards Hogsmeade.
Sensing a presence behind a nearby tree Harry walked towards it as it had the taste of Centaur behind it.
A whisper came towards him. “High One, you may wish to change the direction you enter the village from. The wizards are keeping an eye on the edge of the forest.”
Peeking around the tree Harry saw Bane standing in the brush hidden from view of the path. “Thank you Bane for the warning.”
Leaning against the tree Harry studied the Centaur briefly before asking something that he was wondering. “Bane how long have you been waiting here and why?”
Fidgeting a little bit Bane replied. “Several days, I had hoped you would come this way once again so that I might talk with you again.”
Very curious Harry thought, the Bane from his world had kept hold of his fear and hate of those on two legs letting it fester until it became a senseless rage that led to his people’s death. Here on the other hand it seemed his presence was changing things.
“Why did you not use the circle to come to me?” Harry asked, curious to find out the answer.
“I did not wish to intrude to places that I would not be welcome.” Bane shrugged his body with the answer.
Shaking his head Harry sighed. “Bane all are welcome as long as they remember that violence will not be tolerated within the boundaries of Sanctuary.”
Cupping his hands in a movement that would mimic one caressing the outside of an orb, a glowing crystalline sphere appeared in his hands along with a burst of magic that shot off towards the edge of the forest.
Gazing into the sphere as images were being sent back by the burst of magic Harry spotted a clear area behind the backside of the Boars Head Pub.
Letting go of the magic now that he had a place to shift to out of the line of sight of any hidden watchers Harry turned his attention back to Bane.
“I am going to invite you and any of the elders that want to come with you of a tour of Sanctuary tomorrow morning.” Harry told him as he visualized his landing point.
“I think a meeting would be just the thing to help you and your people understand that you are welcome to visit any time you wish.” Harry said as he slashed his hand down in front of him creating a rift he could walk through.
“I shall inform the elders High One of your invitation.” Bane said with a slight bow.
“Make sure you come also, you will be able to satisfy your curiosity then.” Harry said as he walked into the rift.
Bane stared at the space the High one occupied a mere moment before as he contemplated the enigma that he represented.
Shaking his head as no answers came to him he turned around and rushed back through the undergrowth to the hidden paths that would lead to his village and the elders.
Appearing behind the Boars Head Harry quickly looked around to see if anyone had noticed his arrival.
Not seeing anyone rushing towards him Harry started to walk the back ally a short distance before cutting over to the front lane to head towards the main shopping district.
Seeing the sign for Ye Olde Books Harry walked in and started to glance through the shelves picking out a few books here and there that he thought might be helpful.
Things like a self updating book of ministry decries and laws and he even found a self updating copy of Hogwarts exposed. Must be this world’s version of Hogwarts a History Harry thought.
Taking his selection to the counter Harry glanced around for the shopkeeper before seeing a bell near the end of the counter hitting it a couple of times so it would ring.
When the grumpy old man came out of the back room the first thing he said to Harry was. “Oi now you know you are not supposed to be out of the school grounds if its not a Hogsmeade weekend.”
Sighing Harry pointed to his pile of books. “I am not a student, so would you please ring me up so I can finish my shopping.”
“What do you mean your not a student?” The shopkeeper questioned as he took in the weird attire the young man was wearing.
Harry sighed before letting out a little rant. “Why is it everyone assumes that everyone that looks young must automatically go to Hogwarts?”
“Easy there young fella.” The grumpy shopkeeper replied as he added up the total. “That will be seventeen Galleons even.”
Counting out the money Harry asked that the books be shrunk so he would not reveal his not having a wand and placed them in one of the empty compartments on his belt.
Not even glancing back or thanking the man Harry walked out of the bookstore intent on a little eavesdropping at the Three Broomsticks while eating lunch.
Spying on the boy as he walked into the Three Broomsticks Aberforth closed the door and ran to the back of the shop and spilling some of the floo powder out of the bowl on the floor in his haste threw it in the fire and called out. “Headmasters Office Hogwarts.”
When the flames became Green Aberforth stuck his head in the fire and called out.” Albus are you in here?”
Being distracted by his brother’s voice Albus excused himself from the staff meeting with the four heads of the houses and answered his brother. “Yes, Yes I am here Aberforth what is so important that you would interrupt me at this time of the day?”
“Albus I don’t know what has gotten into that Potter boy but you best make your way down to the Three Broomsticks and collect the lad before he gets into trouble. Not to mention the outlandish clothes he is wearing.”
Minerva who had heard Aberforth warning was slightly confused asked. “Are you sure it was Potter Aberforth’s, I passed him in the hallway as he was leaving class not ten minutes ago, there’s not been time for him to make it to Hogsmeade?”
Scratching his head Aberforth replied. “Well now that you mention it, he is a close match to the Potter boy but now that I think on it his hair was down to his waist where’s the Potter boy had short cropped hair.”
Thinking back to his last visit to Hogsmeade and some of the disturbing rumors that had made their way to his ears about a similar person causing a ruckus in Diagon Ally the next day after he met the lad Albus ordered. “Aberforth keep your eye out I am on my way.”
Getting up off his knees quickly for a man his age Albus spent a moment thinking out loud. “I wonder if the boy I met several weeks ago and the boy that seemed to cause that uproar in Gringotts is the same person. I think I need to have a talk with the lad.”
“Albus you don’t think the boy is a danger do you?” Minerva asked concern all over her face.
Snapping out of his thoughts Albus replied as he grabbed a pinch of floo powder from the tin on the mantle. “I doubt he is a danger, But I do wonder why a young child as young as he is and obviously magical is not in school.”
Throwing the powder into the fireplace before stepping into the green flames Albus told them. ”I will return shortly, Until then Minerva watch over the students..”
Calling out. “Goats nest.” Albus disappeared into the floo network on his way to his brother’s book shop.
Quickly making his way to the front of the bookstore Albus asked his brother. “Is he still in the pub?”
“Unless he left while I was on the Floo to you, he is.” Aberforth replied.
Nodding his head Albus skirted past his brother and walked down the street eyes zeroed in on the Three Broomsticks.
Harry had walked into the pub and ordered the special along with a bottle of Butter Beer and sat down near the front window so he could people watch.
Thanking the waitress that brought over his food and adding a nice tip to the bill Harry started to eat as he listened to the conversations around him.
Savoring his roast beef sandwich and chips Harry listened as a couple of shop keepers complained about how the Aurors camping near the forest was bad for business.
It seemed that most people seemed to think the death eater had gotten what he deserved., and there was not mention of the runic array or pylons in any of the conversations he was listening in on.
Groaning inwardly about meddling old coots as Harry caught sight of the headmaster walking towards the pub, he had to wonder what in the world Albus was doing walking towards the pub this time of day while classes were going on.
Catching the waitress attention and pointing towards his bottle of Butter Beer Harry slid several sickles towards the edge of the table to pay for his drink.
Of course like anything else the waitress arrived with his drink just as he had taken a bite of his sandwich and he could only nod his head in thanks as she laughed at his dilemma.
Sighing as the headmaster did indeed walk into the pub and instead of looking around or going towards the bar he walked over to his table.
“May I sit here?” Albus asked in his most grandfatherly voice.
Motioning for him to sit as he chewed his sandwich Harry sat back and wondered what the old man wanted. While he sometimes missed human companionship, he did not want anything to do with those he knew or the war. There was still too much pain associated with some faces for him to be comfortable around right now.
Albus seeing the boy was busy eating tried to discern what was different about the lad.
“Could you satisfy an old mans curiosity?” Albus asked in between the lad’s bites of chips and his sandwich.
Taking a drink of Butter Beer to clear his mouth Harry told him. “No promises you will get the answer you want.”
Smiling and trying to project the air of gentleness Albus asked. “Shouldn’t a boy your age be in school.”
Albus barely caught the flicker of anger in the boy’s eyes when he called him a boy.
Picking up his sandwich for another bite Harry simply told him. “I had the afternoon off and wanted to pick up a couple of books that I had seen the last time I was in the area.”
Racking his brain trying to remember if any of the other schools gave afternoons off where the student were allowed to leave unsupervised and not coming up with a name Albus hinted. “Ah home schooled. It must be very different and lonely at times.”
Harry tried his best not to scowl at the old man as he was doing his best to try to have his questions answered without coming out and asking them. It was one of his most annoying traits Harry thought.
Finishing his sandwich and pushing around his now cold chips Harry decided to be blunt. “Let me be a little rude for a moment and ask that you stop trying to find answers to your curiosity by answering a thousand trivial questions and come right out and ask me what you want to know.”
Albus was rather taken aback by the lads attitude and told him so. “That is awful forward and rude as you said young man.”
Sighing Harry counted to ten in several different languages to curb the urge to hex the man blue and polka dotted, he did not feel like playing the mans games this afternoon.
Seeing that he was not getting anywhere Harry pointed at his bottle and said. “As soon as I finish what’s in this bottle I am getting up and leaving, you have until then to bother me.”
Taken aback once again at the lad’s rudeness Albus asked. “Are you aware that the Goblins met with someone described like you and it caused quite the stir?”
Shaking his head as Albus still would not come out and ask what he wanted to know he told him as he stood up after downing the last of the Butter Beer. “They fear me. They fear me so greatly that they are unable to function. Which in a way is a shame as we could have done business together.”
Walking away from the headmaster shaking his head. Maybe he needed to meet the man halfway, offer him a bone so to speak. But Harry was tired of the intrigue and politics that was his life in his old world.
If Harry was honest with himself he stayed away from the fear that he would be pulled in to this world’s politics and even asked to help out in the war.
Walking out the open door of the pub and thinking that maybe he would surprise Trisky with a nice fresh roast that could be served for supper tomorrow Harry made his way towards the second street back intent on the grocers he had visited there last time he was in the village.
Albus sat there in shock as the lad left trying to reason out the cryptic reply. Why in Merlin’s name would the Goblins fear this young boy, what type of hold did he have over them they refused to do business with him bringing in profits for them.
Looking up and noticing he had left Albus hurried out the pubs door and looked wildly around trying to catch a glimpse of the lad.
Not seeing anything he noticed his brother down the way standing in the lane motioning towards the back of the pub.
Ah yes the second lane back, where most of the homes were located and a few shops. Waving at his brother that he understood Albus hurried between the buildings and came out onto the second lane in time to see the lad go into the grocers.
Hurrying to catch up Albus tried his best to be unobserved as he snuck glances around the shelves intent on spotting the lad.
Harry felt Albus’s presence follow him into the store but was determined to ignore the old man, knowing that it would drive him batty.
Looking down the meat counter Harry’s eyes widened when he saw several huge birds that looked like Turkeys at the end of the cold case.
Moving over to where they were, Harry wondered just how in the world they could be so big.
Esmeralda seeing the strangely dressed young man had returned to her shop walked from behind the checkout and over to the meat case. “Hello young man, back again?”
Looking up from his wandering thoughts at the sound of the woman’s voice Harry replied with a smile. “Yes ma’am.”
Chuckling at how polite the lad was compared to some she knew she asked. “Interested in one of the Turkey’s then?”
“They really are Turkey’s? I have never seen one so big before.” Harry said in wonder.
“It’s amazing what one can do with a little bit of magic and selective breeding.” Esmeralda smiled.
“Would you like one?” She asked.
“Oh yes, a spit roasted turkey sounds wonderful.” Harry said as he thought of the smells and flavors he was never allowed to taste before Hogwarts.
“Right then, did you bring your trunk?’ Esmeralda asked as she moved behind the counter, taking her wand out to levitate one of the big beasts out of the case.
Smiling as his plans of the meal he wanted to cook came together Harry reached down with his left hand and clicked open one of his belt pouches and pulled out his trunk as he looked around for the produce section.
“Just tap the brass crest with your wand to return it to its normal size ma’am.” Harry told her as he started for the produce section.
“Don’t you want to pick the one you want out young man?” Esmeralda asked in confusion as the lad started to walk away from the counter towards the root vegetables.
“Oh no, that won’t be necessary I want them both.” Harry said resuming his browsing and picking out a nice large selection of vegetables as he hummed a long forgotten tune.
Albus would have scratched his head in confusion if he allowed himself to do so in public, what in Merlin’s name could that boy need with several Turkey’s that could feed so many.
Esmeralda stared after the young man for a moment before flicking her wand and placing the birds in the lad’s trunk and casting a chilling charm on the section she had placed them in.
Quite a catchy tune the lad was humming Esmeralda though as she moved the trunk back to the counter and started to total up what he was picking out and placing them in the lads trunk.
Looking over what was in the trunk Harry thought what else, snapping his fingers he said. “Stuffing, need sausage and stuff to make stuffing, can’t have turkey and the fixings without stuffing.”
“Sounds like you know how to cook.’ Esmeralda smirked as she walked towards the cold case again. “How much sage sausage do you need?”
thinking about it for a moment Harry replied. “Five pounds should do it. Now where would I find…”
“Pecans are over there lad, against the wall in the corner.” Esmeralda pointed towards the far corner. “Can’t have stuffing without pecans.”
“Thank you.’ Harry grinned as he ran towards the corner to pick up a couple of pounds worth.
Smiling happily as he brought the last ingredient to the counter Harry plopped the bag down and pulled his money pouch out from another compartment on his belt. “How much?”
Esmeralda chuckled as the lad had started to stack Galleons on the counter ten high.
“Lets call it sixteen Galleons even.” Esmeralda told him.
Looking towards the trunk with a frown on his face Harry thought things must be cheaper in this world. Then he could have smacked himself as he remembered he had also slipped back in time, so things were bound to be cheaper.
Putting his pouch near the edge of the counter Harry knocked several of the stacks back into his pouch leaving two stacks. Taking four Galleons off the top of one of the stacks Harry smiled at the witch as she closed his trunk and tapped the crest with her wand once more to shrink it.
Picking up the two stacks of Galleons with a smile Esmeralda told him. “You come back any time lad.”
Smiling still Harry secured the top of the belt compartment that he placed his shrunken trunk into and walked towards the door calling out. “Thank you.”
Walking out of the shop, softly singing one of his favorite Elvin songs he found in his library Harry looked like he was walking around randomly, but he was leading the Headmaster to an isolated section of the town near the shrieking shack.
Stopping in the small clearing Harry felt the Headmasters presence on the other side of the tree behind him. “You might as well come out, I know you have been following me ever since I left the Three Broomsticks.”
Turning around and reinforcing his mental shields Harry waited until the Headmaster stepped out from behind the tree.
Seeing the sheepish expression on Albus’s face quickly turn to one of grandfatherly concern Harry had to ask. “You do know that the way you have been following me around could be taken as stalking do you not?”
Smiling in an attempt to put the boy at ease Albus said. “I thought I would offer you the chance to visit Hogwarts and take a look at some of the classes offered. After all it might tempt you with the new subjects you could learn and being around others your own age.”
Sighing Harry decided to be blunt once more, more because he knew it annoyed the hell out of Albus. “I do not know you and so far the only things I do know about you would make one very wary of going any where near you.”
Smiling trying to turn on his charm Albus replied. “Well my dear boy that is easily fixed. My Name is Albus Dumbledore, I am the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.”
“The best and oldest of the Magical schools, even if I do say so myself.” Albus extended a hand in friendship.
Ignoring the extended hand as Harry stared at the man in front of him and tried to understand why Albus was hounding him, after all he did not know who he was. What is it about him that drew the man to him.
“I’m sorry, but I still don’t understand why the interest, or the fascination that you have with me that draws you away from your duties of Headmaster of this prestigious school of yours to spy on me and my doings.” Harry shook his head sadly, wondering if it was his lot in life to draw the attention of the Headmaster.
Does this boy not know his own power Albus thought, before stalling with. “I must have forgotten your name young man, would you mind refreshing my memory?”
“That’s because I never gave it to you.” Harry replied with a sigh. “Who I am is really not any of your concern Headmaster, all I want is to be left alone.”
Turning away from the headmaster Harry started to walk towards the forest. “Is that really to much to ask?”
Albus came to the mistaken conclusion that the boy spent too much time alone, even if he did say he craved being left alone Albus thought it was not healthy in one so young to be alone.
Seeing the boy about to enter the Forbidden Forest he called out in fear. “Wait, it is to dangerous for you to go into the forest without an adult.”
Shaking his head, it was a shame really that the greatest wizard in the world supposedly jumped to conclusions with so little information.
Standing just inside the forest Harry did not turn around but did say with some conviction. “Nothing in the forest will hurt me, no creature would dare.”
“Do not forget our earlier conversation Headmaster, The Goblins fear me to such a degree that they cower in the corner unable to move at just the sight of me.” Harry said with great sadness.
“Whether the fear is logical or not it does have some basis in fact.” Harry told him coldly.
“But a wizard was killed in there not to long ago, on the day you went in there even.” Albus tried to control his panic as the boy started to walk into the forest.
Harry cocked his head to the side as he thought of the best way to answer the headmasters concern without giving his identity away totally. “I know.”
The headmaster was taken aback by that simple statement, and before he could reply the boy spoke up again.
“He broke the law of Sanctuary, no purposely intended violence can be done to others while within Sanctuaries boundaries.” Harry told him before he started to walk into the forest again.
“WHAT.” Albus called out in confusion as he pulled out his wand and ran into the forest after the boy, looking for an explanation.
Quickly catching up to the boy as he was approaching the area where the boy disappeared before, not only that this looked like the area that the death eater was discovered impaled on a spike.
One of the Aurors that had hidden himself near the shrieking Shack noticed the Headmaster walking into the forest with his wand drawn at the ready and ran from his hiding place to help him.
Harry had entered the circle and turned to face the headmaster and his eyes widened slightly as he noticed the Auror that had joined him.
Shaking his head with sadness Harry held up his hand hoping to forestall the headmaster from entering the circle. He certainly did not want to take him back home with him.
“What would it take Headmaster to convince you to leave me alone?” Harry said in frustration.
Stopping on the green grass of the glade but outside of the pylons, Albus noticed the boy’s frustration and tried to appear non threatening as he felt the power increase around the boy.
“Please, I just want to make sure you are alright, and maybe understand a little about you.” Albus pleaded.
“But that’s just it.” Harry told him sternly. “Instead of showing me common courtesy and asking me what you want to know with a straight question, you have to play these games you seem fond of.”
“But.” Albus stammered
“No headmaster, your actions today have shown me that you enjoy playing games way to much for my comfort.” Harry told him.
“And I must ask that in the future you refrain from stalking and bothering me under some misguided sense that I need protection.” Harry sighed and stared at the flabbergasted man. “I would hate to come to the conclusion that the one I needed protection from was you.”
“Now before I go home I am going to pass on a warning to you since you seem to be ignoring your surroundings.” Harry told him not breaking eye contact.
Seeing the shock and slight fear in the headmasters eyes did not bring him the joy he thought it would by getting one up on the old man. “This is a place of sanctuary. I would remind you of the other one who broke the law of non violence in this place and how he ended up.”
“Think on it as you stand before me with your wand pointed towards me.” Harry said before calling out. “Cysti.” And disappearing silently, leaving behind a bemused headmaster and a chuckling Auror.
“You have to admit the lad pegged you dead on Albus.” Alastor told him.
“Mad Eye, that boy has so much power it frightens me not to know how he is being taught. We don’t need a second Dark Lord attempting to rise.” Albus mused as he turned and returned his wand to his sleeve as he walked back towards the village.
XXX
Walking towards the kitchen to put his find away in the cold room Harry snorted at the thoughts running through his head.
So far it seemed that this worlds Albus was just as nosey as the one back in his world, though it was a toss up whether he was as manipulative or not.
Granted he had to deal with the Wizarding public who were starting to get frightened at the rise of a new dark lord that was replacing Grindelwald. But still.
Peeking around the corner Harry quickly made his way to the cold room and the microscopic section Trisky set aside for his use and removing and un-shrinking his trunk removed his bounty and placed them on the shelf.
Closing the door of the cold room Harry placed the remaining supplies on the small shelf in the pantry set aside for his use. He had to wonder just when he had lost control of his own kitchen to the point he had to sneak in the groceries he bought.
Sliding the door closed slowly so as not to make a sound Harry heard Trisky talking to someone in the pantry that held the household money.
Curious he walked over and stood in the door and listened in.
“What is bitsy doing here.” Trisky asked the bouncing small house elf.
“Bitsy is wanting to ask Sir Emerald Eyes if he can buy paint to paint his room.” The little house elf bounced in joy at the thought of painting a forest scene on his walls.
Trisky looked at the bouncing little elf and wondered where his minders were and told him. “Sir Emerald Eyes is being a busy person, you should ask you minders to buys you paint.”
Bitsy stopped bouncing and his ears dropped in disappointment fearing rejection of his dreams.
“Bitsy only has momma minder, daddy minder elf killed long ago, momma minder elf not able to work.” Bitsy whispered out.
Harry could not stay silent any longer he could feel the young house elves disappointment all the way over in the doorway.
Gently he softly broke into the conversation. “Trisky make sure to buy Bitsy the best paints you can find.”
Bitsy’s ears flapped in joy as he stood up in awe at hearing the generous news that his dreams would come true. “Bitsy is working very hard to earn Sirs paints. Very hard.”
Bitsy started to bounce around the room before asking. ”What does Bitsy needs to do to earn paints?”
Looking at Trisky to see if she would help, and not finding any help there Harry pulled one of the leathers sacks off the wall and put several Galleons in it and handed to Bitsy.
“Make sure someone goes with you when you buy your paints.” Harry told him.
Eyes bugging out as big as saucers Bitsy tried to refuse with. “Is to much monies.”
Gently opening the young elves hands Harry pressed the pouch into it and closed his young fingers around it. “Buy the best paints you can find, whatever you don’t use bring back to Trisky, she will have a list of chores for you to do so you can earn your paints.”
Bitsy hugged the pouch close to his chest in excitement before jumping over and hugging Harry really hard in his attempt to show his joy.
Harry chuckled and reminded the little one to remember to take an older house elf with him when he went to choose his paints.
Sitting down on the floor and staring at Trisky as the little house elf ran out of the room practically squealing in joy.
Trying to figure out the best way to say what needed to be said yet not upset the house elf fidgeting in front of him Harry motioned for her to sit down in front of him.
Closing his eyes as he tried to find a way to say what he needed to without upsetting her, yet letting her understand.
Opening his eyes and seeing that Trisky was close to being terrified thinking she had done something wrong Harry smiled gently.
“Your not in trouble, I need your help in understanding something.” Harry told her softly.
Relaxing slightly Trisky nodded her head slowly still uncomfortable but trying not to show it.
“What is wrong with Bitsy’s female minder?” Harry asked wanting to understand why so few house elves seemed to do most of the work around the outpost.
Panicking, thinking he was about to kick Bitsy’s mother minder out of Sanctuary Trisky started to babble. “Trisky is begging Sir not to make crippled elves go away. We be working very hard to do their share too.”
“Whoa, slow down Trisky.” Harry gently told her. “No one is being told to leave Sanctuary, especially not anyone that is injured or crippled.”
“So that is why so few spend so much time working.” Harry said thinking out loud.
Nodding her head fearfully Trisky did not say a word, afraid she would say the wrong thing.
Piercing Trisky with his gaze Harry told her. “No free house elf will ever be turned away from Sanctuary because they can no longer work.”
Holding attention Harry told her. “We just need to discover things they can do to earn money to buy things they want to.”
Hiccupping slightly as she wiped her tears away with the back of her hand Trisky asked. “Sir Emerald Eyes truly will not make crippled elves go away?”
“Truly, I will never make them go away just because they can not work. They will always have a home here and enough food to eat.” Harry told her as he leaned his head against the back wall.
“If you did not see it as charity I would make sure everyone that could not work had what they needed and needed for their children.” Harry whispered.
Gazing at the house elf sitting in front of him Harry started to get an idea.
“Let me ask you this.” Harry slowly fleshed out an idea. “Can some of these house elves that can’t do much work roll up bandages, or use their magic while they are sitting down to move things around or even to direct mops and brooms as they cleaned?”
Trisky was shocked never before had someone asked a house elf if they could do their work differently, they just threw them away once they were to hurt to walk around and do the work like their masters thought they should.
Too shocked to speak Trisky violently shook her head yes.
“So that is what we will do.” Harry told her. “Any house elf can earn money by doing what they are capable of. It is time to start thinking not like your old masters would have, but as a free being that just because they can not do things like they used, is still a valued member of the community.”
Feeling an unusual presence in the room with them Harry stood up. “Trisky I want you to spread the word to all the injured house elves. Tell them that there is a job for them doing what they are able to, it does not matter to me if they do the work sitting down or standing up.”
Swaying back and forth wanting to hug the wonderful High One in front of her and needing to be seen as industrious and hard working Trisky finally chose to nod her head and smile before popping out.
Dispelling the illusion slowly so as not to startle the young one in front of him Saero said softly once the young one noticed him. “You make me proud young changeling.”
Slightly shocked at seeing one of the legendary High Elves appear in front of him Harry had to hope he was not in any trouble for changing his features to mimic those of the High Elves.
Preparing himself for battle if needed Harry cocked his head to the side and asked hesitantly. “Are the high Elves upset with me for taking on your form?”
Smiling Saero replied. “On the contrary we are very proud of what you have accomplished. And prouder still to call you one of our own.”
Letting go of his magic Harry swayed slightly in relief.
“Is there some place we can sit and talk young one?” Saero asked.
Trisky popped back in all excited. “The elders are happy…” Trailing off in awe as she saw another High One standing and talking to her Sir.
Dropping to her knees Trisky bowed her head as she said. “High One.”
Seeing the high Elf step back in shock Harry quickly said. “Trisky, remember what I told all of you, this is not a way to show us respect that we are comfortable with.”
“Stand up please.” Harry told her as he threw a look at the older High Elf challenging him to dare contradict him.
Showing his hands in the universal I give up gesture Saero softly said. “He is right little one, what you are doing now is not a sign of respect but one of fear.”
Reaching down with a hand to help her up Saero told her. “I for one am not comfortable with a friend showing me such fear.”
Hesitating Trisky reached out her hand and with the help of the High Elf stood up.
“Trisky was it?” Saero asked. “Tell us little one why the elders are so happy.”
Gulping nervously Trisky replied in a high squeaky voice. “Elders are happy Sir Emerald Eyes needs crippled elves and offers them work.”
Raising an eyebrow as he tried to translate the strange speech of the little one he was saved from replying by the young one.
“I think we will go to the library, less chance of being interrupted there.” Harry answered his earlier question.
Smiling at the house elf Harry asked her. “Trisky can you bring us some biscuits and something to drink to the library while we chat?”
Nodding her head fast enough one would think it was in danger of flying off Trisky asked as she looked at the new High Elf. “High One want anything special to drinks.”
Sighing at how easily she fell back into her old speech patterns Harry offered. “Is there anything special you would like to drink?”
Smiling his thanks at the offered translation Saero replied. “Some hot Lemonade would be wonderful, if not anything will do.”
Nodding her head Trisky popped out of the room eager to make the refreshments and have them ready in the library before they could get there.
“This way, I think you will enjoy the view.” Harry told the older High Elf as he pointed the way.
Walking down the hallway towards the library Harry explained. “I know it is sometimes hard to understand the house elves, they seem to fall back into their old speech patterns when they are extremely nervous or afraid.”
“I understand. I observed them from a distance for several days before I approached your home wishing to speak with you.” Saero told him before adding. “It is remarkable that you have been able change their lives for the better so quickly.”
Not sure how to take the compliment Harry instead escorted his guest into the library, and was not surprised to see a plate of biscuits and two steaming pots on a tray along with teacups.
Walking over to the glass window overlooking the waterfall and gorge Saero whispered in awe. “So beautiful, a truly amazing place to sit and relax.”
Turning to face Harry Saero asked when he did not see the books one would expect this being a library. “But what of the tomes and books?”
Chuckling with a childish delight. “This way.” Harry said with a flourish of his arm.
Escorting his guest to the other side of the room and onto the balcony over looking the library Harry smirked. ”This is where I keep the few books in my collection.”
Trying hard to hold in the laugh he truly wanted to let out at the older Elf’s reaction Harry smiled in amusement as he left his guest on the balcony and went back to pour his tea.
Sitting down and pouring a cup of tea and some hot lemonade for his guest Harry munched on a chocolate chip biscuit while his guest made his way slowly back into the room all the while glancing over his shoulder wistfully. Almost as if he was pained to leave so many books behind untouched.
Seeing the young changeling in front of him laughing merrily at him through his eyes Saero chuckled. “You are evil young one. To tempt me with so many unread tomes.”
Taking the cup that was handed to him as he sat Saero picked up one of the flat Biscuits the young one called them and gingerly took a bite.
Surprised at the sweet taste Saero told Harry. “This is very good.”
Setting his teacup down on the table after taking another sip Saero told him. “My mate would have never let me even consider bringing food or drink near the library. I envy you.”
“Where are my manners, I some times forget that not every High Elf knows who I am.” Saero apologized.
“I am the Lord of the Hidden Valley, Saero Rilynneplith. May I ask what name you chose for yourself?” Saero asked.
Seeing the surprised look on the young ones face Saero told him. “Twice in our long history there have been changelings that came to this world. And after meeting them we welcomed them with open arms.”
“In the world I traveled from there was only the old stories, nursery rhymes about the High Elf’s and how they left our world in ages past. We had thought it safe knowing that there were still laws on the books that said that the High Elves could not be considered or held to the ministry of magic’s laws.” Harry’s eyes glazed over in sadness as he remembered Ron’s excitement when they found the changeling potion.
“Toby.” Harry called out.
A second later the house elf popped into the room with a grin on his face. “Sir Emerald Eyes is needing his Toby.”
Eyes widening and bowing slightly towards the other High One in the room Toby waited to be told what he needed to do.
Controlling his sadness Harry asked the house elf. “Toby do you remember in my private library the shelf you put that book on the other day?”
Nodding his head Toby replied. “Toby remembers, the third shelf against the wall.”
Smiling at the house elves memory. “Very good, can you bring me the thick red book on the next shelf down, the one below where you put the book back into?”
Nodding his head Toby snapped his fingers as he popped out of the room and a couple of seconds later popped back in holding the thick red journal in his hands.
“Thank you Toby, you are the best.” Harry said as he accepted the journal.
Facing his guest Harry told him. “This started as a biography of my life, after one of my friends died during the war I started to write in it, expanding on what she had started.”
Handing the book over the Saero Harry whispered in pain. “Ginny was my best friends little sister, the beginning of this journal will show you how I was thought of in my world, She picked it up and told the story from her perspective on what I was. And after she was murdered by the death eaters I wrote in it.”
“My writing shows the world who and what I was.” Harry barley whispered out.
Staring at his guest with a haunted expression Harry told him. “I am trusting you to read this Lord of the Hidden Valley, and only you.”
“On my word of honor young Lord.” Saero gave him his solemn word.
Handing over the journal Harry snapped out of his morass with a little effort and told him. “I am Mytimah Na Arkenea’ghymn in this world.”
The sound of Saero’s breath being indrawn in shock as his eyes widened was very loud in Harry’s ears.
Grimacing Harry pleaded. “Please tell me I am not a pawn of another older prophecy in this world.”
Shaking his head in the negative Saero tried to reassure the young lord. “Nay young Lord, no prophecy, portent or foretelling heralded your arrival in this world.”
“I was surprised that you had chosen so wisely with your new name, though after seeing your library I should not have been shocked.” Saero told him honestly.
“Ancient Mage of the Forgotten, indeed.” Saero mused.
“Your sure no mystic messenger of fate is going to come down and bit me in the ass.” Harry asked cynically.
Breaking out into hysterical laughter Saero reassured him. “Oh I am sure young Lord, no deity in the right mind, or wrong mind for that matter, would want to get on your bad side.”
Finally giving in to laughter Harry snorted a few times at the end as he started to relax.
“Why do you call me young lord?” Harry asked curious.
Shrugging Saero replied. “Because you are the Lord of your lands. Your Sanctuary extends a good day and a half walk from this outpost in any direction.”
“You hold and protect those that are within these borders, as I do for the Hidden Valley, hence by Ancient laws you are the Lord of these lands.” Saero told him before adding. “Not many would take on such a task willingly, but once they have they deserve the respect and title of no less than a Lord.”
Harry really wanted to argue the point, but how could he seeing that by the explanation given he fell right into the Lord category. At least this Title is one he earned for himself, not one foisted on his shoulders.
Opening his mouth to ask another question Harry closed it with a snap and twisted his head towards the healing barn an intense look of concentration coming over his face.
Sensing something was not quite right Saero asked. “Young Lord, what troubles you?”
Not really paying attention Harry answered distracted with what the wards were telling him. “Another Unicorn mare ready for birth and in trouble just appeared in the hospital barn. She is stumbling around like she is drunk. This is the third one this week.”
Eyes widening as he came to a conclusion. “Something is poisoning them. TOBY.” Harry called out after making that observation.
Not even giving the house elf a chance to say anything after popping in the room Harry told him as he moved towards the balcony and the spiral staircase leading down. “Toby I think something is poisoning the Unicorns, I’ll start looking in the potions section, you start in the section dealing with Unicorns.”
Ignoring his guest Harry practically flew from the room and down the stairs.
Surprised and then pleased by the young ones reaction Saero jumped the table and followed intending to help.
Quickly scanning the titles of books his fingers were rapidly crossing Harry pulled several out and willed them to one of the tables where several other house elves started to rapidly skim through placing book marks in potions or antidote description that said was effective against unicorns.
Glancing up to see how many books he had chosen as possibilities as he did not want to many piled up before he started digging through them, only to see a team of house elves skimming through them at a rapid pace and placing book marks inside the books.
Smiling Harry went back to scanning and moving the tomes that looked promising to the table.
Saero deciding the best way to help was to start looking through the books the house elves had marked sat down at the table and started to check the marked entries.
Toby popped back over to the table the rest of the house elves were working at and called out. “Toby is finding book on Unicorns that tells of problems with babies before they is born.”
Stopping his searching Harry ran to the table. “Good job Toby.” He said as he took the book that was extended towards him.
Skimming the entries Harry slowed down at the one that chronicled a black ritual that used pregnant Unicorns as a sacrifice at the moment of birth where the unborn foal arrived still born.
Placing the book down on the table, open to the page he was reading Harry stuttered. “Who would be so evil, this is even worse than taking Unicorn blood by force.”
Harry’s head craned around back towards the hospital barn as he was alerted to another transport through the array.
Paling Harry whispered out. “Heavens above, six…six more just like the first.”
Harry ignored everything else and ran up the stairs like the very hounds of hell were snapping at his ankles.
Pulling the book the young Lord was reading in horror over and skimming down to the name of the poison Saero told the house elves. “Quickly now, find anything you can about Caligo Noctis Animus potion or better yet the antidote.”
Harry slid to stop just inside the barn section of the hospital, panting heavily, Several free house elves that did odd job elsewhere around the outpost where helping out by levitating the sick and dying Unicorns from the transport array over towards the large open area in front of the stalls.
Isty looked around frantically before calming down somewhat and calling out. “Sir Emerald Eyes is here.”
Even though he never ever planned to let any other person have access to the outpost back in his world Harry had stored several spell matrix’s in crystals just in case he would ever need to treat a large number of injured at the same time.
Summoning them to his side from their drawer Harry started sending them out towards each of the poisoned Unicorns as quickly as they appeared in front of him.
Activating the general healing spells stored in the purple crystals with a thought Harry moved quickly between the Unicorns trying to be everywhere at once, While Isty and Misty did their best to bolster the mares and send energy to the dying unborn.
Saero Arrived along with Toby and the other house elves that were helping them research in the library a few minutes later.
“By the Valar we need help.” Saero exclaimed as he took a small crystal from underneath his shirt and pulled it off the chain.
Quickly giving orders for as many trained healers and potion masters to travel to his location, Saero moved along one side of the chaos to be able to direct them when they arrived at the array.
Listening closely to the communication pendant Saero called out. “You need to tell the wards to let my healers through, they can’t shift through your wards.”
Frustrated as the mare in front of him was close to loosing its unborn foal, Harry yelled out. “How in the bloody hell do I do that?
“As Lord you are connected to the central crystal, tell it what you want.” Saero cried out as several more Unicorns showed up this time they were males.
Using what little magic he could control Saero levitated them out of the array and placed them gently over to one side where the house elves that had followed him were waiting for an opportunity to help.
Not sure what Saero was talking about Harry visualized the crystal in the center chamber and remembered what it felt like as he was touching it pouring his magic into it and sent a burst of magic towards it while muttering. “Let those from the hidden valley pass freely.”
A moment later a dozen or so High Elves stepped through a rift that appeared in the center of the transfer array and quickly made their way to the sick unicorns.
Saero seeing one of the potion masters walk towards him held up a book and told him. “I think we have discovered the ritual and potion used to poison them now all we need is a place to set up to brew the antidote.”
Toby who was standing near the older High One heard what he had said and gently tugged the pants leg of the High One to get his attention.
When he saw the High One look down at him Toby Said. “Toby knows where Sir brews his potions, follow me.”
Leading the two High Ones out the side door Toby walked around the corner of the barn and made his way towards a door off the side of the hospital area.
Opening the door Toby motioned for them to enter and pointed towards the clean sterile work area. “Sir Emerald Eyes makes his nasty tasting potions taste better here.”
“Thank you Toby this is perfect.” Saero praised the house elf, knowing how much the positive reinforcement was bringing the little ones along.
Harry was taking a breather as the mare he had been helping started to improve slightly, startled when the mare touched his arm with her horn and thoughts not his own danced in his mind.
“Thank you High One, may the moon bless you for your mercy towards my people.” The Unicorn sent to him.
Caressing the side of her face Harry replied. “Rest now.” Before asking. “How many are in your herd?”
Counting the number of Unicorns in the image he was sent Harry paled when he realized that only half the herd had made it to the array and help.
Conjuring a pen and some parchment Harry quickly penned a note and called out for Toby.
When the house elf approached from behind him. Harry turned and knelt down handing the note over. “Toby I need you to go to the transport array closest to Hogsmeade and find any of the Centaurs and give this note to them, we need help finding the rest of the Unicorn that are sick that have not made it to Sanctuary.”
Toby nodded his head before popping to the array. “Toby will do so quickly.”
Snapping his fingers Toby popped over to the array and looked around trying to find a Centaur.
