Temporal Boundary Invasions

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter XV - Happy F'ing Birthday

2009-11-25T05:06:22Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: XV - Happy F'ing Birthday
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~7,961
Warning(s): Coarse language, violence.
Summary: Harry is pulled back in time to the 3rd task after defeating Voldemort years into the future. Momentarily confused, he sets out to make a few changes. Stumbling on a powerful magical artifact, however, sends him off in a few VERY unexpected directions. Warn: SLASH, M/M, Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter
Chapter Summary: Harry's fifteenth... or twenty-seventh birthday lives up to a dubious distinction, as several unwanted guests show up...

XV: HAPPY F'ING BIRTHDAY
OR, HARRY'S BIRTHDAY LIVES UP TO A DUBIOUS DISTINCTION

July 31, 1995
Harry was up long before anyone else in the trunk. His birthday was one particular day he actually loathed, considering the dark memories that it dredged up. He knew the others would make a big deal about it, and if he had his way, he would just find a hole somewhere and hide for the day, not show his face until it was long passed.

For now, he moved into the back of the study, the borrowed journal in hand, so as not to disturb Matt, who was still in a dead sleep-he and his band mates had been up late the previous night. Birthday or not, there was still studying to do… or more accurately, practice. He had still not mastered the doppelganger charm, yet, more importantly, now they had the second trunk, Harry could move his attention to the primary reason for borrowing the journal: a Room of Requirement.

The details were quite elaborate, laying out dozens of steps, and a number of required items. Most importantly, blood from a magical creature-a dragon's would be best, but there was no way he would be attempting to procure such an item. A handful of soil-the instructions clearly stated the soil must not have been conjured or obtained by magical means. Six ounces of water, also obtained without magical means, and an ordinary candle. 'The four elements, of course,' Harry realized, reading further into the instructions. The candle would be blown out during the creation ritual, completing the four elements, his breath being 'air'. It was elemental magic, he realized.

The bulk of the process involved nearly a hundred runes, which he would have to write around the door frame leading into the room he wished to use. That meant creating another room, but that wouldn't be an issue, now that he had the second trunk.

His reading was interrupted, as Kreacher appeared with a light POP. "Breakfast is being ready," he croaked.
"Thanks. I'll be out in a second."
"Miss Granger and Mister Wheezy is looking for you."
"Not surprised." Harry had to suppress a grin, at Kreacher's pronunciation of Ron's name. "Is Matt up yet?"
"He is already having breakfast. Master Tucky's not a Muggle anymore, he isn't."
"You can tell, too?"
"Kreacher is feeling master Tucky's magic growing. It is unnatural," spoke the elf, darkly.
"Kreacher. I know it's not exactly normal. But it was the only way I could save his life. Don't look at him badly because of it, he's one of my best friends."
"Kreacher understands," answered the elf, then to himself, "Muggles becoming wizards… Oh, what would mistress say?" he vanished with a loud POP. Harry only shook his head, packing up the journal and the few sheets of paper he was scribbling notes on, then made his way out to the dining room.

"Harry?! Where were you?" Hermione demanded, as he stepped into the room.
"In the study," he answered, taking a vacant seat at the table, which happened to be beside Matt.
"Happy birthday, mate," said Matt.
"Thanks."
"Yes, happy birthday, Harry," Hermione added. The others quickly added their birthday wishes, as a plate appeared in front of him.
"So… Mr. Tuck… will you be serenading Harry with the birthday song later?" questioned Hermione.
"No. I don't think he'd actually like that."
"Oh come on, that's playing a spoiler is it not?"
"I thought you guys knew him better than that," said Matt, with a shrug, "I've only known him a week or so and I know for a fact that's the last thing he wants right now."
"And Matt would be right," said Harry, quietly, "You know the one thing I'd like to do today?"
"Go flying?" questioned Ron.
"Right in one," said Harry.
"Flying on what?" Padge piped up.
"What do you THINK?" questioned Matt, "Think about it… wizard, witch…"
"Oh. Right."
"Well… we could go to the Burrow," said Ron, "Mum and dad are at Grimmauld Place, and so is Ginny. Percy… Percy is-"
"A prat and a git," George scowled, between bites.
"And he's got his own flat in London," Ron continued, "So we'd have the place to ourselves."
"No. If we go, I'll have your mum's permission. I'd rather not invade your home without your parents not knowing." Harry pulled a blank page of paper from the journal resting beside the plate, scribbled out a half-page note, and checked the time ('9:21 a'). "This will be a bit of a test. See how much I can actually trust your mum and dad over Dumbledore."
"Harry! you should know the answer to that, mate!" Fred looked slightly put out by the suggestion, as did his twin.
"I have to be sure. Fawkes?"

It took a minute, but the brilliant red bird appeared in a flash of flames in front of Harry, looking at him expectantly. "Do you mind delivering a letter for me?"

oOo

Arthur Weasley had only just arrived at his small office that better resembled a broom closet, when Fawkes appeared in a brilliant flash of flames.
"Another note from Dumbledore, is it?" Arthur questioned. The bird only shook his head, lighting over to his overflowing inbox. 'Who else would it be from,' he wondered, accepting the scroll. Coming with Fawkes, there would be no reason for it to be dangerous.

Mr. Weasley,
Consider this a sort of test. As you know, today is my birthday, and Ron has given me a suggestion on what to do. I'm not looking for a huge party or the sorts, rather, just an opportunity to spend some time with my friends.

This is where the test comes in. It's a test of trust. I know Dumbledore and the order are looking high and low for me, but at this stage, I'm not ready to deal with his overbearing, manipulative manner.

So I ask a question. I would like to visit the Burrow for the day, perhaps go flying with Ron and his brothers and sister-you and Molly would be welcome as well, of course. I understand if you say 'no', but if you say 'yes', and you inform Dumbledore or any other Order member, I will not be able to trust you again.

You can send your reply with Fawkes, I've asked him to wait.

I hope my trust is well placed,
Harry Potter

Arthur started. 'Merlin's beard!' he thought, having to read through the letter a second time. What was that boy up to? Yet, he had been very specific. No contacting the Order or Dumbledore. Why not? Of course, that would make sense. Yes, the aging headmaster was somewhat of a master manipulator at times, was he not? He let out a breath he realized he had been holding, and fled the room, leaving a rather confused phoenix sitting on top of the inbox on his desk.

oOo

It was nearly 10 am before the phoenix returned with a shortly written note.

Harry,
We would be honoured for you to come for a visit this afternoon. Molly has already floo'ed home with Ginerva; they both insist on at least having cake, we do hope you won't mind.

Molly was rather insistent on telling Dumbledore, but I was very clear she was not to, and barring an accidental visit, no one from the Order will be there, save for us.

Arthur Weasley

"Great! Looks like we're invading your place this afternoon, Ron," Harry grinned, folding up the letter. "Thanks, Fawkes." The bird only nodded, and again vanished in a burst of flames.
"What about Sirius?" questioned Hermione.
"I'll leave a note on the coffee table in front of the floo letting people know where we are."
"We could bring our gear along," Padge offered.
"You guys will NOT be playing 'happy birthday', or so help me it'll be the last thing you play," Harry vowed.
"Err… right."
"And just beware, dad will be all over you guys… fascination with everything Muggle and so on," Ron warned. That got a snicker from Harry.

Once they had finished lunch, Harry sent Ron to collect the trunk from Grimmauld Place and floo to the Burrow with it. They decided it best he place it in his room, so to be out of the way.

Ron returned a few minutes later through the hatch, then used the floo so his arrival wouldn't startle his sister or his parents. It also gave him the opportunity to make sure there were no unwelcome visitors at the Burrow, although he did have full faith in his parents' word. Ron quickly returned to the trunk, and let everyone know it was fine.
"Great. Let's go, then. Matt… hold on to me this time and don't move until we're done… well… moving," Harry instructed, "Padge go with Ron, Jay with Hermione, and…"
"I'll take Moose," offered George.
"Same rules, guys. Don't let go or move until you're pushed out of the grate, and you won't land on your arse. Ready?"
"Yeah, guess so," answered Matt. Harry nodded, and grabbed a handful of floo powder from the container beside the fireplace. He flicked it into the fire, causing it to turn a brilliant green. "The Burrow!" He called out, and dragged Matt into the flames with him. They vanished.

Even with the careful explanation, the pair still ended up being ejected from the floo to skid across the floor in a heap. Harry silently cursed himself, since it had been he who had moved, rather than his passenger.
"So… much… for not moving…" Matt managed, and fell into a sneezing fit, from the soot he had managed to inhale. He suddenly found himself hoisted back onto his feet. "Scourgify!" someone had spoken, and the ash had vanished from his clothes.
"Harry!?" A middle-aged, plump woman with a kind face and red hair had seized his friend in a tight hug. "How are you dear? Happy birthday!"
"Thanks, Mrs. Weasley… now if… I can breathe…" Harry managed. Just then, the floo fired again, and Ron emerged from it with Padge in tow. Molly broke her bone-crunching embrace, to stare at the second stranger who now stood in her kitchen. Ron only pulled Padge off to the side, as the floo fired yet again, expelling Hermione and Jay. They, in turn, stepped aside, as the floo fired once again, this time emitting George and Moose. They too shifted away from the floo, as it fired one final time, and Fred stepped out.
"Merlin's beard, Harry, where've you been hiding everyone?" Arthur questioned, although Harry knew he was kidding.
"I'll explain in a moment. First. My new friends. This is Matt, Padge-or Michael, Jay, and Moose-another Michael… you can see why they go by their nicknames," Harry introduced. "Guys, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley."
"Oh, call me Molly, dears."
"And you can call me Arthur." A round of hand-shakes ensued.
"Come have a seat, then," said Molly, "Has everyone had lunch already?"
"Already covered," answered Harry, "We ate just before we floo'ed in."
"You're eating well, then?" questioned Molly, as Harry took a seat at the table. Matt quickly followed, occupying the seat beside him. The others filled in after.
"Harry, where have you been?" Molly questioned, "Albus has the Order scrambling and has since the dreadful incident at your relatives'."
"I'm sure he has, Mrs. Weasley," answered Harry, "But if I'm gonna tell you, I need a wizards' oath from the both of you that what I reveal here won't get back to him."
"A wizard's oath? What on earth for? Surely-" Arthur began, but Harry held up a hand. "I know I can trust you guys, but there are some things that aren't covered by trust. You both know Dumbledore is a powerful legilimens, right?" Both Molly and Arthur nodded. "So how long do you think my secrets will stay secrets?"
"Point conceded," said Arthur, drawing his wand. "I, Arthur Weasley, swear on my magic, that I shall not reveal anything about to be revealed to me by one Harry Potter. So mote it be."
"So mote it be," said Harry, and the golden strand of magic buried itself in his chest. Once Molly had done the same, Harry said, "If you were to go up to Ron's bedroom right now, you would find a second trunk resting where mine ordinarily would when I've spent time here. I've replaced my old school trunk with one far more useful."
"Useful… bleedin' Christ, he's got a whole flat in there," Padge muttered.
"Is that so?" Arthur raised an eyebrow. "Well, then. That would explain your disappearance, then!"
"Sirius knows about it, as does Snape. But otherwise, you guys are the first outside members of the Order that know about it."
"Snape? Why would you allow him-" Molly began, clearly unnerved at the idea.
"If you'll let me explain fully. Better yet. I can share memories with you, it'll take less time, as I'd like to spend my afternoon doing something less stressful."

Harry did exactly the same thing with Molly and Arthur as he had done with Fred, sharing a lengthy stream of memories, covering both his 'future', and his recent incursion into a parallel universe. He then sat back, allowing them to absorb and think about it, something which seemed to take longer than when he had done it with Fred.
"Oh, Harry…" Molly finally managed, and looked as if she wanted to swallow the boy in a massive hug. Harry only smiled grimly, gesturing to himself, and restoring his 'older' appearance. "This is what I truly look like."
"Now we understand why you aren't all that anxious to speak with Dumbledore," said Arthur. Both he and Molly were startled by Harry's drastic change in appearance.
"But as I said, he can't keep away from him forever, he will have to face him sooner or later," Hermione interjected. Harry nodded, saying, "And like I said before, I know that. Thing is, I want that meeting to be on my terms, not his. I'm twenty seven today, not fifteen. But most of you at this table know Dumbledore won't ever see it that way."
"You see him as a threat, then?" questioned Arthur.
"NO! No, definitely not," answered Harry, a little more sharply than intended, then, "He's got his own agenda. Lots of things that involve me, but definitely his own agenda. I need him as an ally, not someone who's gonna meddle with things, keep secrets from me. That's how people get killed, and incorrect conclusions made. You all saw how Snape killed him. I thought for certain Snape was purely evil… a totally wrong assumption, but all the same, that's how I looked at him. I know that couldn't be anywhere near the truth, and I've told him so."
"But Harry…"
"I trust him. He did his best to keep the school safe when Death Eaters roamed the halls for a number of years. Only when Voldemort was down to his last Horcrux, did I finally understand his real motives and his true allegiance. I didn't share any of that with you guys, because it's not my story. It's Snape's-although you'll be very lucky should you ever get him to tell it." Just then, the floo fired, and a head appeared in the flames. "Harry?"
"Jiro," said Harry, then turning back around, "Mrs. Weasley, there's two others in my trunk. Is it okay if they come through?"
"Yes, of course, dear."
"Great. Bring Zack as well."
"Be right there." Jiro's head vanished. Moments later, the flames roared to life a second time, and two men stepped out of the fire. Both looked much like the other new faces Harry had introduced.
"Mr. and Mrs. Weasley, this is Jiro and Zachariah Kane," Harry introduced, "Jiro and Zack, this is Molly and Arthur Weasley."
"We know," said Jiro, taking the final seat at the table. He shifted several moments, as his close proximity to Matt was making him uncomfortable. Zachariah stood directly behind him. Molly looked at the guy quizzically, then it dawned on her.
"Yeah, we're bonded," said Zachariah, catching Molly's glance.
"Oh, I don't have an issue with it," said Molly, "For how long?"
"Three years, ma'am," answered Jiro, then to Harry, "Happy birthday."
"Thanks. Yes, the reason we're here. Ron suggested we go flying this afternoon, make use to the Quidditch pitch."
"I think that will be all right," said Arthur, "Molly and Ginerva do plan on making a cake for you at least."
"Don't go out of your way."
"Oh, it's not a bother, Harry."
"Not that I could ever turn down any of your cooking, Mrs. Weasley," said Harry, standing. That got a bright smile from Molly. Harry went over to the floo, and activated it. He stepped into the fire, stating, "Harry Potter's trunk!" and vanished.

He returned about a minute later, with Sirius in tow.
"And how long have you known about this, Sirius?" questioned Molly.
"Since the second day of summer vacation," answered Sirius. "I was just about to come through, when Harry come back."
"If I'm gonna go flying, I need something to ride, right?" He had his Firebolt gripped in his right hand.
"So… you truly fly that," said Padge, gesturing to it.
"Harry's a great flier, youngest seeker in a century," Ron piped up.
"Only beaten once to the snitch," said Fred.
"By his boyfriend nonetheless," George added.
"Guys! That was an accident. Had it not been for the Dementors, that wouldn't have happened! Come on, let's go outside." It was clear the mention of Cedric had not helped any.
"If flying's the plan this afternoon… I'll be right back," said Jiro, standing. 'Of course he'd have a broom of his own,' thought Harry, as he left the house.
"If we knew where… we could set up our equipment," said Jay, as he followed.
"Speak to mum," suggested Ron.
"What sort of equipment?" inquired Arthur.
"We play music."
"Really?"
"Err… their music is-" Harry began, but Ron cut across him, "Wicked!"
"Later, guys," said Harry, "Come watch us play." He held the broom level, and straddled it, getting curious looks from Jay, Padge, and Moose.

Harry was surprised feeling a sudden weight on the back. "Err…"
"So… how fast can you go?" Matt questioned, slinging his feet up in the stirrups beside Harry's. His band mates were muttering in protest, but Matt had tuned them out.
"You really wanna find out?"
"You ever rode a rollercoaster?"
"Err… no. Hold on," Harry warned, as they rose in the air. Matt wrapped his arms around Harry's midsection as they did so. Another sharp movement, and the broom shot forward, rapidly gaining speed.
"How fast can it go?"
"About a hundred and fifty miles an hour," answered Harry, having to almost shout to be heard.
"Damn."
"Sirius bought it for my when my old broom got wrecked… like Fred and George said, the only time I ever lost a game."
"This 'Quidditch'… it's a sport then."
"Yeah. C'mon, that's what the others are doing," said Harry, pointing to a fenced-off area not far from the house. Sure enough, the rest of the Weasley kids present-including Ginny-were already mounting brooms of their own. Harry aimed the broom in that direction, and stopped just over the small pitch.
"Let me off, then," said Matt.
"Actually…" Harry smirked, "No. Better to see from the air, I think."
"…"
"What… scared?"
"No." Just then, Ron had floated up to them on his own broom. "You gonna play with a passenger?"
"Yeah, thought I would," Harry smirked.
"Mental…" said Ron, as he zoomed off.
"Knew you'd turn up eventually, Potter." Harry spun to find Bill floating alongside his opposite side. He almost lost control of the broom.
"Harry… don't lose it on me here," said Matt, reminding him he had a passenger.
"Bill! Where… what…"
"I happened to floo home for a late lunch and a visit with mum, of course." The eldest Weasley flicked his pony tail back where it belonged.
"Bill… I didn't… Merlin's balls…"
"Why are you avoiding the headmaster? And bloody hell what's happened to you?" he gestured at Harry's changed appearance.
"It's a long story. One I'm not ready to share with a number of people just now."
"And am I included in that?"
"If you can't keep a secret, then yes. I need a wizard's oath from you, just like I've asked from your parents." Bill only nodded, and without hesitation, gave a wizard's oath much like his parents had.
"Great. See, that's why I love your family so much, Bill. I don't like going around Dumbledore, but sometimes…"
"He needs to keep his meddling hands to himself?" Bill finished.
"Exactly. So you guys all understand what I mean. They all mean well, but… as you can see, I'm by no means a boy, never have been. I turn twenty seven today, not fifteen."
"Ah. The picture becomes a little clearer."
"Oi! Are we gonna play or what?!" came Fred's voice from below them.
"I'll explain everything later, okay? There's a few things you need to know in addition as it is," said Harry.
"I would gather your passenger is included in that?"
"Yes… for now, Bill, this is Matt Tuck. Matt, this is Bill… I've told you about him."
"Pleasure," said Bill, as they shook hands.

They played Quidditch for a good portion of the afternoon, with Hermione and Matt's band mates watching. There weren't enough people to form proper teams, even with Bill's arrival. They made do, having only one keeper, and no bludgers. Ginny decided she would play seeker as well, and she was no slouch, giving Harry a run for his money. They finally called it quits, seeing Molly and Arthur setting up several tables near the garden. Harry and Matt set down not far from the other members of the band.
"Did you guys speak with Molly?" questioned Harry.
"No," said Padge.
"Now's a good time, she's setting things up-really hope she's not going overboard."
"Why do you hate your birthday, mate?" questioned Jay.
"Voldemort terrorized me eight out of eleven years in my future."
"Oh."
"Not exactly nice memories," said Harry, dismounting the broom. "Matt… shift ahead a bit."
"What for?"
"I'll teach you how to fly it. I mean, after all, any self-respecting wizard should know how to fly a broom." That got a few sniggers from his band mates.
"Very funny…" Matt muttered, shifting ahead so Harry could climb on behind. "Guys… go see where we can set up."
"Set up what?" Bill was again hovering only a few feet away on his broom.
"They're a Muggle heavy metal band," Harry supplied, as the others made off for the tables near the garden.
"Really?"
"Unlikely you'd know them… they're from another world." Bill arched an eyebrow at this, and said, "I take it that will be part of your explanation?"
"Yeah. Right. Okay. To get us in the air, you do this…" Harry adjusted Matt's hands to the right spot on the broom, and pulled up. They quickly rose into the air, and Harry put his feet in the stirrups. Bill followed.
"Now… getting us moving is like this…" Harry again adjusted the position of Matt's hands. "Now lean forward… not too fast!" The broom had lurched forward. "The more aggressively you do that-"
"The faster we go?"
"Right. Lean back…"
"And we slow down."
"Exactly… perfect pace. Now… slowly lean left… exactly. That's how we turn. And to the right…"
"Blimey, Harry, you could probably replace Madam Hooch," said Bill.
"Not likely."
"Who's that?" questioned Matt.
"Flying instructor at Hogwarts. She also referees our Quidditch matches," answered Harry. "Right. The thing to remember, is the more aggressively you move on the broom, the more aggressively it will respond."
"So if I do this…" Matt leaned forward aggressively. They were gone like a shot, and he felt Harry tighten his grip around his midsection.

For Harry, it had to be one of the scariest broom rides he had ever been on, as Matt pushed the Firebolt to its limits, engaging in a series of steep climbs and dives. He could have swore the guy had done at least one loop-the-loop. Maybe he was only imagining it… although they had rolled completely over and back at least six times.

They finally come to a stop just short of the tables. Most of the others had gathered to watch the 'show', and at least a few were less than impressed.
"Err…"
"Well, you said you'd not been on a rollercoaster before," said Matt, with a shrug.
"Bloody hell, I think I left my shadow somewhere up there," said Harry, shaking his head.
"You should see how he drives, mate," Padge piped up.
"Still, it's no excuse, Mr. Tuck!" Hermione huffed, "You could have been killed! Harry could have been killed!"
"Hermione's right. Harry's important to our world. Doing things such as that… oh Merlin," said Molly, equally appalled at what she had just witnessed.
"Oh come off it! The last thing the guy needs is to be coddled, for fuck's sake!" Matt snorted, reaching back to his back pocket for his cigarettes. That was almost as good as sex! Harry had shifted back to give him more room. "Thanks."
"I thought that was wicked," Ron threw in, "I mean, first time in control of a broom and all!"
"Ron, it's not funny! Harry could have been killed!" Hermione huffed, as Matt lit his smoke and took a drag.
"It was scary as hell, but I liked it," answered Harry, with a shrug, "I actually needed that." Molly was mortified by that comment. Never mind Matt's appalling language…
"Yes, I must agree with Molly on that, Harry." They boy-become-man swung the broom around, causing Matt to almost drop his smoke with the abrupt movement. Sure enough, one of the last people he wanted to see that day was standing a short distance away, having come out of the house. Dumbledore was joined by Snape, McGonagall, Tonks, Remus, and Moody.
"Happy birthday, Harry," spoke Remus.
"Thanks, I guess," said Harry.
"Indeed, happy birthday, Harry," said Dumbledore, "You've been most difficult to locate."
"I've had my reasons, sir," answered Harry, "Voldemort regaining his body -again- is one of those."
"Yes, and being out in the open such as you are right now is inviting trouble," spoke Moody.
"So you'd have me locked up at Grimmauld Place, kept in the dark about things instead?"
"We're only looking out for your safety, Harry," spoke Tonks.
"Yes, and we know how long it would be before he goes spare," said Sirius, who had stepped out of the house bringing a plate of snacks.
"Matt… here. I'd say be careful, but… just don't kill yourself," said Harry, dismounting. Matt only smirked, and was gone like a shot.
"Allowing a Muggle to fly a broom? Oh dear," said McGonagall, pursing her lips.
"Indeed, how is it a group of Muggles have found their way here?" inquired Dumbledore.
"Because they're a few very close friends now," answered Harry, curtly, "Professor, there's a bunch of things you don't know just now… and frankly I wasn't ready to tell you. Now since you're here… I can't exactly avoid it… Kreacher?!" Harry called. The elf popped in front of him.
"Harry call for Kreacher?" questioned the elf.
"Could you retrieve my pensieve for me?"
"Kreacher is fetching it right away!" the elf bowed low and vanished.
"Like everyone else up to this point, I need a wizard's oath from all of you that whatever I'm about to share remains a secret… Professor Snape excluded, I already have his oath."
"Indeed?" Dumbledore raised an eyebrow. Severus already knew Harry's secrets? Dumbledore nodded to the Order members with him, and each of them gave their oaths of secrecy.
"Just maybe this won't be as painful as I expected," said Harry, as Kreacher reappeared bringing the pensieve.
"Shit," Harry cursed. The small vial he needed containing the memory was still in his room-Kreacher wouldn't know where that was. "I'll be right back." He twisted on the spot, and vanished with a slight POP.
"How long has he known how to apparate?" inquired Moody.
"I've no clue," answered Sirius, with a shrug, "It's something he hasn't explained."

Meanwhile, Harry quickly located the required vial-it had been stowed in his potions stores, but out of sight. Stepping back into the common room, he quickly added the list of names who now knew of Harry's secret to the floo. No sense in keeping them out at this point, he decided. He had no clue how vital that decision would be in only a matter of minutes. He apparated back out to the yard, where everyone was still gathered.
"How long have you been able to apparate, Harry?" questioned Dumbledore.
"About eleven years, professor," answered Harry, as he uncorked the vial.
"HARRY!" He looked up to see Matt, pointing at something near the Quidditch pitch: two dark shapes-Death Eaters. They had just crossed the outer edge of the property.
"Shit! Death Eaters!" Harry snapped, drawing his wand, and re-corking the vial. He'd barely done so, when a number of dark shapes popped in with clouds of black smoke.
"Jiro, Fred, George! Get the guys back into the trunk now! --DO IT!" he shouted, seeing them rooted to the spot. A red bolt of magic forced Harry to duck, while Moody answered with a red bolt of his own.
"Professor! My trunk! It's here, you can floo into it! Harry Potter's trunk! All of you have access, now go now-REDUCTO!" he shouted, sending another red blast of magic at a hooded figure. He got an answer back in an angry burst of purple magic, along with two streaks of red. He barely avoided the three curses.
"Potter, it's you that needs to get out of here!" Moody snarled, sending a flurry of curses toward an opponent of his own.
"And leave you here!?" he shouted back, 'bloody hell… that fucking doppelganger charm… if only it worked!'
"You were saying?" he blinked, seeing an identical copy of himself standing before him. "Now get out of here." The clone had no sooner said it, than he felt a hand grip him about the shirt collar and sling him over the handle of a broom. They took off. "Thought you couldn't do that yet," said Matt.
"So did I," Harry breathed, as the battle fell away from them. Matt slid back, and helped Harry to sit properly. "Once again, a life-saver, I think."

A bolt of green magic missing them by only feet reminded him they were very much still involved in the fight. Harry pressed down on the broom, making a track for the Quidditch pitch.
"Shit… Harry, one of them's got a broom," Matt warned.
"Hang on!" He leaned forward aggressively, and the broom shot forward. "They must've raided the broom shed," Harry guessed, "Their brooms aren't all that good-don't ever tell them I said that."
"LEFT!" Matt suddenly yelled, and Harry leaned the broom left. Good thing, as another green bolt of magic barely missed them to their right. He had to just as quickly lean right, as the attacker sent another curse their way.
"Impedimenta!" Harry shouted, thrusting his wand blindly behind him. The hex missed wildly, and the attacker answered with another green bolt of magic.
"Fuck, they just set the house on fire," said Matt.
"The trunk… shit, we have to go back."
"Land and apparate," Matt suggested.
"Hang on," Harry warned, pulling into a steep dive toward a thicket of trees a short distance ahead. "Get ready to jump off."
"What?!"
"Trust me."

They blasted through the canopy at nearly sixty miles an hour, and Matt knew he was going to have more than a few nasty scratches on his arm… the broom came to an abrupt stop, and both dismounted rather roughly. Harry gripped Matt by the arm with one hand, his broom with the other, and they vanished with a noisy CRACK.

They reappeared in Ron's bedroom, and the smoke was already thick in the air. He gestured with a hand, while yanking the lid of his trunk open, tossing most of the contents of his best friend's room into it-it would be a messy clean-up, but better than his best mate losing everything. If only he could do that with the rest of the house. That done, he slammed the lid shut, miniaturized it, again grabbed Matt by the shoulder, and they popped away. Unknown to either of them, Matt had been tagged with a tracking charm.

They appeared in the front yard of Cedric's house.
"I was planning to come here anyway," said Harry, "C'mon." They walked up to the door and knocked. It opened a few moments after. "Mr. Potter… oh dear," said Mrs. Diggory, seeing their dishevelled appearance. "What's happened?"
"Death Eaters attacked the Burrow," answered Harry, darkly.
"Oh my… do come in."
"Thanks," said Harry, "Dumbledore and the Order are there… I better use the floo and let the ministry know."
"You know where it is, dear."

Moments later, he was in front of the fire. He stuck his head in the flames, and found himself looking into the office of the department head for Magical Law Enforcement. Exactly who he'd hoped to connect with.
"Madam Bones?"
"Mr. Potter! What… how can I help you?"
"Death Eaters… attacking the Burrow. Dumbledore's there… but they need backup."
"You're sure of this?" The middle-aged witch pursed her lips. She was still unsure of exactly what to believe when it came to the stories of the Dark Lord's return.
"Positive… they set fire to the house… don't know if anyone's been killed."
"I'll send Aurors out at once."

Harry pulled his head back out of the fire. "Good. Got in touch with Madam Bones… no nonsense witch she is. Hold still." Harry gestured at the nasty scratches on Matt's arms. "Episkey."
"Thanks. What now?"
"Nothing we can do for now. I'll see whatever happened from the eyes of my clone, later."
"Your clone?" Mrs. Diggory questioned.
"Some very advanced magic," answered Harry, "Since we're here…"
"Oh, yes, of course." They were then led into Cedric's room, where the boy still lay in complete stasis.
"Happy fucking birthday," Harry muttered, once again occupying his usual seat.
"How did they know you were there, though?" questioned Matt, "Someone had to say something."
"Yeah, my question exactly. How did Dumbledore know I was there, never mind Death Eaters."

Suddenly, Harry felt a rush of memories flood his mind, ending with a flash of green light.
"Shit. My clone just 'died'," Harry muttered, rubbing his temple. He looked over at Matt, who had winced. "Ow."
"What… you felt it?"
"Yeah, you could say that." He was rubbing his chest. "Felt like… well… like something stabbed me in the heart." Harry arched an eyebrow. The blood bond was stronger than he had thought. Now everything fit. Whether Matt realized it or not, he was truly bound to Harry in so many ways.

A sudden, loud crash broke Harry out of his thoughts.
"Mrs. Diggory… where's your husband?"
"At work."
"Right. We've got company." He stood up, once again brandishing his wand. He retrieved his trunk, and re-enlarged it, just as a second crash came, the sound of a door being blasted apart. They had but seconds. Harry yanked the lid open. "Mrs. Diggory, get in…"
"Why… what's in there-oh!" Cedric's mother realized at once what Harry's trunk actually was.
"I'll bring Cedric."
"Of course!" Cedric's mother again realized the plan, and wasted no time climbing into the trunk. Another crash rang out somewhere in the house, while Harry grabbed Cedric by the hand, and Matt by his arm, and vanished with a loud POP.

They appeared in the common room of the trunk, amidst a crowd.
"What's the meaning of this, Potter?" demanded Moody.
"Guys! It's not over yet!" He cursed, and popped away again. A moment later, the lid slammed shut.

Meanwhile, Harry again shrunk down the trunk, pocketed it, grabbed his broom, and disapparated, deciding to for now, return to Grimmauld Place. The trunk was re-enlarged, and stowed in Regulus' room, as it had been that morning. Another birthday cluster-fuck, and it was far from over. Then, something else dawned on him: the Lovegoods lived in the area too. He popped back into the trunk.

Ignoring the demands and questions around him, Harry knelt in front of the fire with a pinch of floo powder. "Fire call the Lovegood residence!" He then stuck his head into the fire, and found himself staring into the rather cluttered and dis-jointed kitchen of the eccentric editor for the Quibbler.
"Oh, hello, Harry Potter," said Luna, kneeling at the grate.
"Luna… the Burrow and the Diggorys were just attacked by Death Eaters. You guys might be in danger!"
"Oh, there's no Death Eaters here, Harry," answered Luna, dreamily.
"There might be. Is your father around?"
"He's running the press right now."
"Look. If you think you're in danger… use the floo and come to my trunk."
"What are you doing inside a trunk, Harry? The knock-chordals might get you in there."
"The what-never mind… just… the floo address is 'Harry Potter's trunk'. Promise you'll floo here if you're in danger. Both you and your father."
"Okay, Harry." Harry pulled his head out of the fire. He gestured at the fireplace, saying, "Addendum, Luna and Xenophilius Lovegood." The fireplace turned green for a moment. He then said, "Molly, Arthur. I'll help you guys rebuild."
"That's not necessary-" Arthur began, but Harry held up a hand. "No, it is. It's my fault they were there. I still don't know how, but. Let me help you guys."
"Where are we now, Harry?" questioned Dumbledore.
"Welcome to my trunk. I've had it since the second day of holidays. It's allowed me to have perhaps a bit of normalcy-although that's been few and far between."
"We put Cedric in your room, Harry," said Ron.
"He can have my bed if he wants, since I'm not using it," Matt suggested.
"Great. We'll have to make more permanent arrangements, but that'll do for now. Let's go into the study where it's a bit more comfortable."

Once everyone had taken seats in the study, some of which ending up occupying the couches in front of the fire, Harry said, "Professor Snape. We need a few calming draughts, I think. Do you mind?" Snape only inclined his head, and left the room.
"And how long has Professor Snape known of your 'arrangement' here, Potter?" inquired Professor McGonagall.
"The day I disappeared," answered Harry, "I'll explain once professor Snape comes back. I'll also tell you the fireplace in here is also connected to the floo. It's 'Harry Potter's Trunk, study'. Pretty simple."
"Yes, too simple," Moody noted, "You should be a little more original than that, Potter."
"Not one of my top priorities, Mad-eye," answered Harry, "I've barely had a chance to breathe since the beginning of the holidays. It's been one calamity after another, and I've barely been able to take care of anything on my agenda."
"What sort of agenda?" questioned Dumbledore.
"Again, I'll get to that. Although, sir, I do have a question. Do you think I've been keeping myself safe, considering this is where I've been most of the time thus far?"
"It would depend on where your trunk actually is, Harry."
"Up until the attack at the Dursleys a few days ago, it was there, in my room."
"And where are we now?"
"Back at Grimmauld Place, which is where I put the trunk when I realized aunt Petunia's was no longer safe. You are still keeping an eye on them?"
"They are your relatives, Harry. of course we are," answered Dumbledore.
"Good. As much as we don't get along, they ARE my relatives, my blood. Although I think we all agree, I can never live there again."
"No, Harry, I daresay you can't," answered Dumbledore, "The wards collapsed minutes before the attack."
"Ah. That would explain it," said Harry, nodding.
"Well, you did leave the trunk while looking like that," Matt pointed out.
"Yes, about that most startling glamour, Potter," said McGonagall.
"Right." Harry gestured at himself, restoring his more familiar fifteen-year-old appearance. "Better?"
"Wandless magic?" Remus arched an eyebrow.
"You will all be quite amazed at what my godson is capable of," said Sirius, with a smirk.
"Now the pieces fit," said Dumbledore, "Harry, how old are you?"
"I turned twenty-seven today," answered Harry, "Did someone manage to grab my pensieve?"
"Yes, I did," said Molly, "Kreacher put it away again."
"Okay." Harry again summoned the elf, and had him retrieve the pensieve. Just then, Snape stepped back into the room, depositing a bunch of bottles on the table. Numerous hands reached out for one.
"Thanks, professor," said Harry, then asked, "Was anyone killed?"
"One Auror. Tonks is in the hospital wing at Hogwarts, Poppy is tending to her but she should make a full recovery," said Remus, looking unsettled. Of course, that could be said about the majority of those present.
"Remus. Go be with her," said Harry, "I'll share this stuff with you and Tonks later."
"What?" Remus looked at Harry, but it quickly dawned on him. He was gone through the floo in a heartbeat.
"Most of the injuries we were able to heal quickly. One Death Eater was captured and is now on the way to a holding cell at the ministry," continued Moody, "McNair, it was."
"Good. Vicious Death Eater. Should just pitch them all through the veil and be done with 'em," Harry muttered, once again uncorking the vial.
"But Harry, what would that solve? It would make us no better than Voldemort or his Death Eaters," said Dumbledore.
"Maybe, maybe not," answered Harry, with a shrug, "At least it would put a stop to the revolving door that is Azkaban. Voldemort will in the near future, break out ten high-profile Death Eaters from the place, early winter at the latest."
"How do you know this?" questioned Moody. Harry only responded by dumping the contents of the vial into the pensieve. "Those of you who haven't seen this, stick a finger in. I warn you all, it's not pleasant, but it explains much."

While Dumbledore and the Order members viewed the memories, Harry leaned back in his chair. Another birthday, another disaster. Two displaced families now… what the hell was he supposed to do about that? "Mr. Weasley… you might want to floo Mr. Diggory and let him know what's happened… I'd rather him not floo home to a trap."
"What did happen, dear?" inquired Molly.
"Death Eaters. They somehow followed us to Cedric's," answered Harry. Just then, Luna walked into the room looking a little out of sorts. Her father entered a moment later.
"Luna… Mr. Lovegood, you guys all right?" questioned Harry.
"Quite all right, yes," answered Xenophilius, "Thank you for alerting us of the possible danger."
"Three Wizarding families attacked… because of me," whispered Harry, "Happy fucking birthday."
"You can't blame yourself, mate," said Matt, "Holy fuck, I think you know that!"
"But… just everywhere I go, it just brings chaos. I mean, you guys have had your lives turned upside-down. Why? Because of ME!! The people I come to know as a family… their home fucking DESTROYED! Why?! Because of ME!! My boyfriend… fucked three ways from Sunday. Why?"
"Harry that's not fair," Hermione protested, "You can't blame yourself for that!"
"Why not?! It's the truth, isn't it?!" Harry stormed, "Just about everyone here now, they've been screwed over because of me or something 'I' did!"
"What would Cedric say if he heard that?" Hermione challenged. That got a stormy look from Harry. Oops, wrong thing to say. He slammed his chair back from the table, and stormed from the room.
"And I thought 'I' suffered from foot-in-mouth disease. Nice going, Granger," Jiro muttered.

Harry flew into his bedroom, and stopped short. Mrs. Diggory was sitting beside the spare bed he had set up for Matt. Cedric now occupied said bed, still looking as pale as ever. She looked up, hearing his less-than-quiet entrance. "Everything all right, Mr. Potter?"
"Err… fine. I'm fine," answered Harry, curtly. He flopped down on his own bed, deciding to use this time to sort through the maze of painful memories that now flooded his mind. The use of a pensieve might come in handy later, he decided.
"What's happened, son?" inquired James, from his portrait.
"Bad things, dad… bad things," Harry sighed. His parents realized at once this was probably not the best time to pump him for information.

It was truly a mess. The day had started so well! Yet, as had been the case so many times over, his birthday had turned into a day better forgotten. Three Wizarding families were now uprooted in some way. The Weasleys had lost everything they owned, and being in such dire straits financially as it was, they would never be able to replace any of it… at least not without help. The Diggorys… his boyfriend… they had likely lost their home as well, and as far as Harry knew, they weren't exactly well off either. Luna and her father… he would have to speak with them later, and find out what sort of damage had been done. Either way, it would be a lot of money coming out of his vault to fix things.

Looking through the memories of flying with Matt, something occurred to him: the guy had changed somehow. His actions that afternoon were with one goal in mind: to somehow impress him. Harry let a smirk form on his lips. Oh yes, the guy more than liked him, that was clear as day at this point. He just didn't know it himself. Muggle rollercoaster indeed! Hermione had tried to explain it to him once, and he sort of got it. What Matt had done on the broom was almost exactly like the description. Never mind the fear he'd seen in the man's eyes as he warned of the approaching Death Eaters. That fear had been for Harry, no mistaking it. This was a man at war with his own feelings, his own emotions. Which side would win? His heart, or his mind?

His thoughts returned to the ensuing battle. As quick as it had started, it was over for him. Once again, Matt had just acted, dragging him onto the broom and flying away. In some ways it might have been cowardly, but his clone had taken care of things up to a point… his clone? Another smirk crossed his face, as he realized what had happened. He hadn't even made the wand movements, nor the incantation! 'Shall we try it again, then?' he smirked to himself.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: So once again, Voldemort has made his presence felt. Some of you might find it a bit much, but remember, Harry's changed the timeline so dramatically at the beginning, and now things are starting to be felt. Also, Tom did not make a personal appearance at the Burrow, only a few of his Death Eaters.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: XIV - BOUNDARIES PUSHED
NEXT CHAPTER: XVI - "HARRY'S TUCKY"
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter XIV - Boundaries Pushed

2009-11-23T17:38:27Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: XIV - Boundaries Pushed
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~7,462
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry is pulled back in time to the 3rd task after defeating Voldemort years into the future. Momentarily confused, he sets out to make a few changes. Stumbling on a powerful magical artifact, however, sends him off in a few VERY unexpected directions. Warn: SLASH, M/M, Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter
Chapter Summary: Matt tries to get his head around several incidents that involve him and Harry… he begins to ask questions that, perhaps for him, are better left unanswered…

XIV: BOUNDARIES PUSHED
OR, HARRY MAKES MATT FEEL RATHER UNCOMFORTABLE...

The light being cast through the windows of the common room was beginning to brighten, heralding the arrival of the dawn. Yet, two occupants of the trunk were still awake, although that term was being used rather loosely at this point.

Of the three bottles of firewhiskey Kreacher had brought back, only one of them had anything left in it, just enough for one more mouthful each. It spoke very clear terms as to the condition of the two men who sat-or more accurately, half-lay on the couch directly facing the fireplace. Harry was staring up at the ceiling-not that he could see anything all that well at this point, while Matt seemed to be more focused on the fire merrily crackling in the grate. His feet were haphazardly up on the coffee table, having dislodged a number of items that cluttered it-Harry had sniggered when he had done so.

"So… d'you think I'm turnin' into a wizard… for real?" questioned Matt, glancing over at Harry.
"Well… 'ya did apparate… I mean, I did it… when I was six or seven-can't 'member when and it was like instinct or somethin'." He slowly raised his head to look at Matt. "Mate, I'd bet a bag 'a galleons, I'll be takin' 'ya to get a wand one day."
"Can I see it-your wand?"
"Err… sure." Under normal circumstances, he would never permit someone to handle his wand… yet, he HAD consumed a bottle and a half of firewhiskey. He rolled a bit in his seat to better access it, and inadvertently bumped into Matt. "S-sorry."
"S'okay."
"It's here somewhere…"
"What'd'ya do, stick it down your pants?"
"Err… well, sort of."
"Sounds like a dangerous place to me. Don't'cha worry 'bout blowin' your cock off or somethin'?"
"WHAT?" Harry snickered, then burst out laughing. "Oh Merlin… NO, I don't put it there… I've a different wand there."
"Um… right." If Harry could see properly, he would have seen Matt's face flush quite red.
"FINALLY… bloody hell…" Harry at last located his wand, and held it out in front of him. "Look how I'm holdin' it… s'important."
"Yeah, okay." Matt gripped the base of it as shown, although a little loose, and almost dropped it.
"Careful. See… now I KNOW you're a wizard… If Padge or Moose or Jay touched it-"
"As Moose discovered… but why?"
"'s how we channel our magic… les' try somthin'… Say, 'lumos', imagin' a light… at the tip of the wand."
"Lumos!" said Matt, although a little slurred. A faint light glowed at the tip of the wand.
"Wicked! Now… nox to get rid of it."
"Nox." The light vanished.
"Yer a wizard, Matt." Harry plucked the wand out of his friend's hand, and gestured with it at the mess they had made on the floor. The clutter went flying. "Oops, not what I meant." Looking rather sheepish, he attempted to stow his wand back in his waistbelt.
"So is' not a good idea doing magic while you're wasted…"
"Err… no," Harry answered, then, "Matt… whatever… however it happened earlier… it says loads 'bout your character, mate."
"S'only fair, you saved ours… when we met a few days ago."
"More 'an that, I gained a few new friends… You're one of my bes' friends now." His words came out barely above a whisper. The boy-become-man was fading fast.
"'night, Harry," Matt whispered, as the first rays of the sun were just beginning to cast their beams across the floor of the common room. He was only a few minutes behind, slumping over, inadvertently laying his head on Harry's shoulder.

Sometime later, Harry was brought back into a semi-conscious state by something brushing up against his jaw. 'Facial hair? When did Cedric grow facial hair? Sleeping in an awkward position?' he thought, then lazily gestured with a hand, enlarging the couch slightly to better accommodate two bodies. 'Smells different,' he mused, dragging the other form along with him into a better position. "Missed 'ya," he whispered, pulling the other body close. The darkness of sleep quickly reclaimed him.

Even though they slept, business went ahead as usual in the trunk. By 9 am, everyone was up, and breakfast had been served. Of course, between preparing breakfast and setting it out, Kreacher had also checked on Harry, and seeing his state, threw a heavy quilt over him and 'Harry's Tucky', so he thought of Harry's new friend in his mind.

Sirius, of course, had been the first conscious person in the trunk, having arrived not long after Harry had made his 'adjustments' to the sleeping arrangement. He had to suppress a snicker. The couch they were sleeping on was anything BUT a couch at this point. 'Harry must've done that while still intoxicated… wandless magic and alcohol don't go well together,' he thought.

From that point on, he acted as a sort of sentry, keeping people from disturbing the pair. It was only when Snape arrived through the floo that Sirius at last dared try to wake the pair.
"Harry? Wake up, kiddo, it's almost lunch time."
"Sorry?" Harry moaned, his head still in a fog. He felt the body beside him shift, and he tried to open his eyes. His head felt about six sizes too big, and all of his senses felt 'wrong'.
"Padfoot… anti-hang over potion from my stores… if you don't mind."
"I'll save you the trip, Black," said Snape, reaching into his robes.
"Professor!"
"Harry…" It was then, he got the second shock of the morning. Never mind the fact one of his teachers was standing not ten feet away… who he thought was Cedric… was actually Matt… Oh Merlin!
"Explain," said Snape.
"Ditto," said Matt, trying to untangle himself from Harry. The look on his face said it all: he was far from impressed.
"I… I didn't mean to… I swear it!" said Harry, "Merlin, I'd never… I mean…"
"This happened by… accident," Snape drawled.
"YES! I mean… oh bloody hell… Matt… I swear it, I would never… I won't ever take advantage of you."
"But you did! That's just the thing!" Matt answered, angrily, "What did you think, you could get me wasted and have your fucking way with me?!"
"Is that what you think?" Harry paused, to accept the anti-hangover potion from Snape. He was about to consume it, but then asked, "You have an extra, sir?"
"Just one other."
"Here." He passed the potion to Matt. "Maybe that'll clear your head a bit… Kreacher?" The elf popped in, and bowed, asking, "Master Harry call for Kreacher?"
"I need an anti-hangover potion, please."
"Kreacher is fetching it right away!" he bowed again, and popped away. Matt stood up, and downed the potion. He took a seat on a couch adjacent, glaring at Harry.
"You think I would take advantage of you?"
"That's what it looked like!"
"I don't know how it happened!" Harry shot back, "It wasn't planned, if that's what you're getting at!"
"You should know, Mr. Tuck, you were quite happily cuddled with my godson for a good part of the morning," Sirius noted.
"Hey, Einstein, I was in no fucking shape to know what I was doing!"
"And neither was I!" Harry snarled, "Bloody hell you're being thick!"
"Mr. Tuck, what happened to you and Harry yesterday evening?"
"…"
"So just imagine, if the tables were turned? You might want to give Harry a bit of leeway here, I'm sure his intentions were nothing less than honourable."
"Do you remember ANYTHING of our conversation this morning, as fractured as it was?"
"You said I was one of your best friends."
"Do you really think I'd intentionally violate that? THINK before you answer." Just then, Kreacher popped back into the room, holding out a vial. "Thank you, Kreacher." The elf bowed again, and vanished with a pop. "Look. Matt, I promise you… I'll never intentionally hurt you, or take advantage of you. Merlin, I know too well what that means… to have your trust in someone shattered."
"I… okay, I guess I see your point."
"There has to be a reason Potter acted as he did," said Snape.
"If you'll wait for a minute or so… let me sort through my thoughts and I'll tell you."
"You did not exercise your Occlumency shields?" questioned Snape.
"Most nights I do… last night was an exception," answered Harry. He leaned back, closing his eyes.

"OH! Harry, you're awake!" said Hermione, stepping into the room, Ron practically joined her at the hip.
"Wait a minute, Hermione," said Sirius, while Snape only sneered.
"Why?"
"He's doing something with his mind," answered Matt, although he didn't quite understand himself.
"Occlumency," said Snape, "Protecting one's mind from intrusion."
"Oh! Of course! To keep V-voldemort out!" Hermione remembered, "But… after last night it won't matter, he doesn't have that mind link to him any more."
"It's still a useful tool, Hermione," spoke Harry, opening his eyes.
"You two looked quite smashing together," said Ron, with a grin. That got a scowl from Harry, and a murderous look from Matt.
"Wonderful. The entire trunk must've seen us," said Harry, letting out a frustrated sigh. "Matt… I thought you were Cedric. I wasn't completely aware, or awake."
"That explains the rather poor excuse for a couch," said Sirius. Indeed, the piece of furniture Harry now sat on alone looked like it had been through hell. Oh sure, it had been resized appropriately, but texture and colour were rather shocking, never mind the outer shape.
"Wandless magic and alcohol… bad combination," said Harry.
"Second that," said Matt, looking at the floor, "Where'd the shit on the floor go?"
"Kreacher probably cleaned it up," said Harry, with a shrug. Matt seemed to think about Harry's words for a few moments, then stood up, and rejoined Harry on the 'poor excuse for a couch'.
"Sorry I got all bent about it."
"Sorry I put you in an uncomfortable situation," Harry reciprocated.
"Now that this sentimental occasion is over and done with… perhaps I could get to the reason for my visit," Snape deadpanned.
"Cedric… how is he?"
"Madam Pomfrey has released him to his parents' care," said Snape, "He will remain petrified until we can determine a course of treatment. As I said last night, there is only a small chance he will survive." Harry only nodded at this. Sure, the healers at St. Mungo's were most likely looking into things along with Madam Pomfrey… but this particular curse was rare. He'd heard of it being used once the first time around, and indeed, the victim had died about twelve hours after being cursed. If anything, casting the killing curse on the guy would have been mercy.
"Thanks for your help, professor."
"Harry… Dumbledore is demanding to speak with you, and I quote, 'at his earliest convenience'… meaning yesterday," said Sirius.
"He has the Order out in force searching for you," said Snape, "I need not remind you the headmaster has many resources."
"Yeah, that he does," Harry agreed, "But I'm still not ready to share my secrets with him."
"But Harry, you know yourself, you'll never be ready for that," Hermione challenged, "You won't be able to keep this kind of thing away from him forever."
"Miss Granger is right. He will learn of your secrets eventually."
"Not today. No, I'd like to have a quiet 27th birthday, with a few of my friends and that's it. Then I'll speak to Dumbledore. Not before," Harry decided.
"Birthday… right," said Matt, remembering the previous day's conversation.
"And you don't need to get me anything. You've already given me something as it is… you and your band mates… your friendship. That means a lot more to me than anything you can buy."
"As heart-warming as this is, I do have other places to be," Snape sneered.
"Thanks for the update, professor," said Harry, while Snape activated the floo. He gave a nod, then vanished in the green flames.
"He always so… cranky?"
"Yes." Came a chorus of three voices.
"But," Harry added, "He's got his reasons, and I trust him with my life. That goes for anyone I've let in here." He looked at his pathetic excuse for a transfiguration attempt. "Yeah… rule of thumb. Do NOT attempt to do magic while intoxicated. The results are rather unpredictable." He gestured at the monstrosity with a hand, restoring it to its proper shape and appearance.
"That might have passed as some fucked up art form somewhere," said Matt, the faintest hint of a smile forming on his lips.
"Yeah, in some other universe. But hey, like I said, I wasn't exactly in any state to be doing that…"
"No, and really… Harry, drinking? Was that really necessary?" questioned Hermione.
"Yes, it was. Guys, look. I wanted to FORGET what happened yesterday evening for a few hours. That's exactly what I got."
"Awww, the two wuv birds are up…" Harry craned his neck to see Fred and George emerging from the entry hall, both sporting huge grins.
"Matt and Ha-wwwy sitting in a tree-"
"So help me if you finish that, George, I will permanently transfigure you into a flabberworm," Harry warned, glaring at the twins.
"Err… what's a flabberworm?" questioned Matt.
"You don't wanna know."
"But Harry, you two looked so cute together!" said George.
"Forgetting Cedric so quickly?" Fred chimed in. that got a murderous look from Harry. "GUYS! Merlin's pants!" It was definitely not a cool thing to say, and both twins quickly realized it.
"Sorry, we didn't mean it that way, mate."
"It's okay," said Harry, blowing out a breath. The entire trunk most likely saw them in the rather compromising position, so it should be expected. He got up, and after putting on his 'younger' appearance, knelt in front of the fire. He tossed a pinch of floo powder into the grate, and spoke, "Fire-call the Diggory residence!" he then stuck his head in the fire.

"Hello? Anyone here?" he called, seeing the Diggorys' kitchen. It was several moments, but Mrs. Diggory appeared. "Mr. Potter."
"I'm sorry for what happened to your son… but… Voldemort… he's back."
"As the headmaster has warned us as well. How are you keeping?"
"As best as I can," answered Harry, "I just… wanted to check with you. If you guys need anything, floo us here."
"We'll do that, equally should something change here, we'll let you know quick as we can."
"How's Mr. Diggory handling it?"
"Very poorly, dear, very poorly," answered Mrs. Diggory, "I had to stun him when Madam Pomfrey spoke to us through the floo. He's needed three calming draughts already today."
"I know too well how he feels."
"I need to get back and check on them. Do take care, Mr. Potter."
"And you as well." Harry pulled his head back out of the floo. Just as quickly, Snape's head appeared in the fire. "The Headmaster is searching Diagon Alley."
"Thanks for the warning," said Harry, turning to the twins. "Guys. You can get into Grimmauld Place, right?"
"Of course."
"Take the trunk to Grimmauld Place."
"Put it in Regulus' room," Sirius suggested, "No one ever goes in there."
"If you tap the trunk once with your wand, it should shrink down so you can stow it in your pocket," said Harry, "Tap it again, it'll restore itself to original size." Both twins nodded, and vanished with a noisy CRACK.
"Why do they make so much noise when they do that?" questioned Matt.
"It's inexperience," said Sirius, as Snape's head vanished from the fire, "They've only recently learned how to apparate, so they haven't had much practice with it."
"Oh. Makes sense."

A few minutes after, the twins reappeared in the common room with an equally loud CRACK.
"Now that business has been taken care of…" said Fred.
"We were meaning to say thank you, Harry," George added.
"For?"
"Connecting us with Jiro of course!" answered Fred.
"We're gonna make a fortune!"
"Well, Jiro says it's all your stuff in the first place," said Harry, with a shrug. He thought for a moment. "Did they find information about fixing Muggle electrical stuff so it works around magic?"
"That was the other reason for us coming up here," said George, pulling something out of his pants pocket. He set it on the floor and re-enlarged it. It turned out to be another power box like the one that still sat on the table in the study. "Got something we can test with? Nothing expensive."
"Right."
"I've got something they can try," said Matt, standing.
"We haven't done this before."
"We can't guarantee it'll work," Fred added, "So it might just break it."
"I'm not gonna be tore up over a broken alarm clock."
"Right. We'll go into the study where it'll be easier to work," George decided.

Matt was only gone for a moment, and returned to the study with an old alarm clock that normally plugged into the wall. George looked it over for a moment, then drew his wand. He made a series of intricate movements with it, gesturing at the clock several times. The device glowed blue several times, then finally glowed green, as George muttered, "Energia segregatus!(1) …That should do it."
"Moment of truth," said Fred, plugging the clock into the power box. Incredibly, it lit up, the numbers flashing as they would when first switched on.
"I can't believe it." Hermione was clearly impressed.
"So would this stuff work at Hogwarts?" Ron wondered.
"Yeah, most likely," said George.
"This place is all magical as it is, is it not, little brother?" Fred pointed out.
"Just a second." Matt left the room. He returned a few moments later with another one of his guitars.
"No, it might get wrecked," Harry warned.
"I trust you guys," Matt insisted.
"Set it down, then. Let me try something else," Harry decided. Matt obliged, laying the guitar on the table. Harry drew his wand, as this would be a difficult thing to attempt. "Geminio!" He commanded, gesturing at the instrument.
"Harry?!" But Hermione's unspoken concerns were for naught, as an identical instrument appeared beside the original.
"Fuck me sideways!" Matt uttered, blown away by the act.
"The truth will be in whether it actually WORKS the same way," answered Harry, "Guys. Put your charms on the copy."
"Harry, I thought the duplication charm only made useless items," said Hermione, confused.
"But you know magic is only partly about wand motions and annunciation, right?" Harry pointed out, "The other part of it is the intent."
"I suppose…"
"No, Harry's just a powerful wizard, Right Fred?"
"Indeed, George," said Fred, gesturing at the duplicated guitar with his wand.
"Show me. Show me how to do it," said Harry.
"Right. Watch carefully," said Fred, as he started over. Harry followed the pattern with an index finger, rather than his wand. After all, learning a new spell without his wand was good training.
"Now the incantation is 'energia segregatus'."
"Energia segregatus," Harry repeated.
"Put it together…" said Fred, as he again traced the pattern with his wand, "Energia segregatus!" The guitar glowed green for a moment.
"And green, I take it, means the spell worked?"
"As far as we understand it," said Fred.
"But that's from our own notes, so it has to be accurate."
"I'll be right back." Matt fled the room, taking the original guitar with him.
"I think you guys might be a while," Harry sniggered.

He was right. The twins spent the next twenty minutes enchanting various pieces of equipment Matt dragged into the study, the heaviest being an amplifier. Each item was duplicated and its original packed away again-it wouldn't do to damage the original equipment, after all. All of it had been brought from Matt's flat.
"Harry… you mind giving me a hand?"
"Sure… where do you want it?"
"The corner there?" Matt gestured to the corner opposite the door.
"Sounds all right to me. Guys?"
"We'll fetch another power box," said Fred, "Jiro's got a bunch of them." He vanished with a noisy POP-he was shortly followed by his brother, who made an equally noisy POP. Ron and Hermione, meanwhile, helped Harry and Matt to move the enchanted equipment to the corner of the room. Ron appeared fascinated by all the Muggle gadgetry, as Matt hooked everything up. Just then, Kreacher popped into the room.
"Lunch is about ready," he croaked out.
"Kreacher… would you mind bringing it in here? We're a bit tied up with this at the moment." Harry gestured to the equipment in the corner. The elf nodded, and with a bow, he popped away.
"What about Jiro and Zack?" Hermione reminded.
"Kreacher will send lunch down for them as well, I think." As he said that, the twins reappeared with a noisy CRACK, bringing with them another power box. It was identical to the one Matt had connected his gear up to, although this one had sixteen receptacles, eight on each side.
"Err… guys… I don't think we'll need THAT much power," said Harry.
"What do you think's gonna happen when I start playing this?" Matt gestured to his guitar. He was almost done setting up.
"Touché," said Harry. Ron, meanwhile, hadn't moved from where he stood, watching as Matt finally dared turn on the amp. He was startled with the loud CLICK that came from it.
"Promising," said Matt, making a few more adjustments.
"Oh, the shame of it! He doubts us!" Harry feigned injury, getting huge grins from the twins.
"The nerve of it!" Fred finally chimed in. Matt only rolled his eyes, plucking a guitar pick from one of the small packs he had brought in with him, and strapped on his guitar. 'I'll be truly impressed should this actually work,' he thought, making one more final adjustment.

He was more than pleasantly surprised, as the first chord he played came clear and true from the amp speaker. He shook his head, although the expression on his face was clear as day. He was back in his element, as he plucked out a few more notes.
"Oh… and you should also know… we can put unbreakable charms on your strings so you don't have to worry about them snapping."
"What was that? God, you got it to work?" Padge looked impressed, standing in the entrance to the study. Just then, a plate of sandwiches appeared at the centre of the work table closest to them.
"Yeah, they got things to work for me. Come eat," said Matt, putting the guitar back on its stand.

"So… once we get our equipment replaced… we'll need somewhere to keep things set up permanently," said Padge, more to himself than anything. The other members of "Bullet for my Valentine" had of course joined them, they too had heard Matt's guitar.
"When will you see about getting our equipment replaced?" questioned Jay.
"Tomorrow, if you guys would like. The only thing I have to remind you of, this is 1995, not 2006. So the equipment you will find probably won't be what you're used to."
"We can make it work," said Padge.
"As for setting up a space for you guys to play, I'll work something out. For now I'll move some of the shelving in here around-they're a bit bare as it is and are just taking up space," Harry offered.
"Thanks, mate," said Padge.
"You did have a spare bass at your flat, didn't you?" questioned Jay. Matt nodded, and said, "I'll get these guys to fix it." He turned to Harry, and said, "You can copy something more than once, right?"
"Yeah, of course."
"Great. Jay will need an amp as well."
"So will I," said Padge.
"What about you?" Harry pointed to Moose.
"Nope. I play drums."
"Only thing I DON'T have," said Matt, "Although I can play."
"You can play just about anything," Padge chimed in.
"Not."

By mid-afternoon, three of the band members were once again outfitted with equipment-although borrowed from Matt. They were able to plug everything into one box, the second the twins had brought up, and from there, things evolved into a rather enthusiastic jam session. Even Jiro and Zachariah had come up, since it was rather loud-Jiro sat at the far end of the room so he wasn't actually near Matt.

They didn't actually play any of their own material at that point, since Moose still lacked a drum kit. Yet, Harry could see the effect it had on all of them-they had clearly missed playing. This brought a semblance of normalcy back to the guys in an otherwise upside-down world, at least from their perspective. 'Of course,' Harry realized, 'Matt will never be normal again-that morning's discussion, and his wilful casting of a simple charm from a borrowed wand… he's not a Muggle anymore.'

The activity was interrupted by the arrival of Fawkes in a burst of golden flames. He had a scroll of parchment clutched in his talons. However, when Harry went to take it, the bird hesitated, as if to say, 'Be careful.'
"Right. He's done something to it?" questioned Harry. the bird nodded. "Put it on the table, then." Harry indicated the work table. Fawkes dropped the parchment, then lit over to the back of a chair, while Harry poked at the parchment with his wand. "Port key," he declared.
"Why would he do that?" questioned Matt.
"Why do you think?" questioned Jiro, "Remember what I said."
"No, he's just very concerned," answered Harry, gesturing with his wand. "Finite." He took a seat, and unrolled the parchment. It was indeed the headmaster's writing, characterized by the thin, slanting writing:

Dear Harry,
I understand your wish to be alone and deal with the most disturbing events that unfolded last evening at your relatives'. However, in light of those said events, it is imperative you be placed somewhere safe.
I apologize for having taken you from whatever location you deemed safe enough, but I must stress, Voldemort is a powerful wizard, and will work to uncover your location, no matter how safe you believe it to be.
I will…

Harry didn't bother to finish. The letter was designed to transport him to Dumbledore's location, most likely, given the fact it had been delivered by Fawkes. He gestured at it with a finger, speaking, "Incendio." The parchment burst into flames.
"So what would have happened if you'd touched it before, well, cleaning it?" questioned Matt.
"It would have taken me wherever the port key was programmed to take me," Harry answered. He thought for a moment. "Gonna need to make a few changes to the wards."
"Anti-port key?" Jiro guessed.
"For starters. The next letter he sends might not come with Fawkes, here."
"Good things he likes you, mate," said Ron.
"Yeah, isn't that the truth." Harry sat down, and conjured up paper and pen. "Best send something back, at least." He scribbled out a few lines, rolled it up, and let Fawkes take it. "Back to Dumbledore with it, okay?" The bird nodded, opened his wings, and flashed away.
"But Harry, why are you avoiding him?" Hermione wanted to know.
"Because I'm not ready for him going all protective on me, as he just did. He fails to remember, I'm not just a boy anymore-I never was. I've got wants and needs of my own that-they might be a little selfish, but I think I have a right to that, don't I?"
"But Harry, you know the answer to that question yourself," Jiro responded, "Neither you-know-who nor Dumbledore will ever allow you that."
"Then maybe I need to start thinking of the worst-case-scenario. I was brought back for a reason that I have yet to understand. But it WASN'T for me to repeat the events I've already lived through. If so, maybe I should just A/K myself and do myself a favour."
"HARRY!" Hermione was horrified at the suggestion. The others were equally shocked.
"What? It's true… d'you all think I really want to relive my worst nightmares? I already do that on a regular basis-I'm not really looking forward to sleeping tonight as it is!"
"You're being stupid, mate," said Matt, "That's the easy way out."
"I know! Gods, I'm not serious!" Harry huffed, "Look. I'm just saying, there's a point where I'll take my trunk here, along with everyone who's the least bit important to me, and fuck off somewhere. Hopefully to another universe somewhere-WHAT? It happened once, who's to say it won't happen again?" He took in a deep breath, blew it out, then said, "Guys… I'm serious. Just maybe… the Wizarding world I know of isn't worth saving."
"You'd just doom everyone to Voldemort? What about our mum and dad?" questioned George, looking quite unsettled by the tone of the conversation.
"You guys would come with me… all of you, including your mum and dad. Cedric's parents, Hermione's parents… anyone who's stood by me. It wouldn't be a short list. But look… it's just an idea, one I hope I don't ever give more than a fleeting thought to."
"But just THINKING that, Harry, think of what you're remotely suggesting!" said Hermione, equally appalled by the notion.
"Like I said, it's only a thought. Let's just drop it."

Right after lunch the following day, Harry took the members of "Bullet for my Valentine" into Muggle London to purchase new equipment. He had gone to Gringotts that morning, converting and withdrawing nearly 300 thousand British Pounds. He wasn't sure of the cost, but guessed musical instruments were expensive. "Whatever you need, get it," he had instructed the guys.

On return to the trunk, Harry and the twins at once began modifying everything so it would function around magic. Most items were also duplicated, and the originals packed away. Only then did Harry and his magical friends get a true sampling of exactly what kind of music "Bullet for my Valentine" actually played.

Jiro and Zachariah, of course, had heard their music before, and were by no means surprised by it. The twins and Ron seemed quite impressed with it-their much older brother was into such music as it was, after all. Hermione seemed quite uncomfortable with it, considering some of the lyrics contained rather colourful language. Harry… he was on the side of the twins. 'Very aggressive. I can appreciate that,' he thought.

Shortly after supper, the twins again approached Harry. "You wanted something to connect two trunks, right?" questioned George.
"Yeah. Did you guys find something?"
"Quite ingenious, actually," said Fred, laying out a piece of parchment, "It functions exactly like a regular door, except it's a portal."
"It connects two spaces as if they're right beside each other," George continued, pointing out the diagram.
"Can you make it?"
"Already did," said Fred, producing a miniaturized door from the pocket of his robes, "We just need a place to test it."
"Right. That'll have to wait until tomorrow, I hadn't expected you guys to come up with a solution so quickly. If it works, I'll pay you 500 galleons for it."
"Harry…"
"No. Guys, it's brilliant! Besides, you can put it toward your joke shop. Think of it as an additional investment."
"So… you and Matt yesterday…" George began, but fell silent getting a glare from Harry.
"Guys… we are NOT an item… I wasn't exactly clear in the head."
"So we can prank him mercilessly, then?" Fred piped up.
"No, you can not," Harry spoke, dangerously, "They're still not exactly sure how to take us as it is, I don't need you guys scaring them half to death."

When Harry awoke the next morning, he was startled to find Matt had climbed into his bed. 'Of course,' he realized, 'more ugly nightmares. So how many people did I wake up THIS time?' He knew it wouldn't matter where Matt actually slept, it would have most likely woke him anyway. The bond of blood was both a blessing AND a curse. Harry gently prodded the guy in the ribs. "Hey. If you're coming with, you need to wake."
"Say again?" Matt questioned, sleepily. Harry could tell he had not slept well.
"I need to go to Diagon Alley again today, remember?"
"Right…"
"Sorry I woke you up with my nightmares again." Matt only waved it off, saying, "Who was the guy with red hair?"
"Bill. He was my second love… and you'll likely meet him," Harry explained, "He's a curse-breaker at Gringotts."
"Right, the oldest of the Weasley kids, right? A little old for you isn't he?"
"Not really," Harry smirked, gesturing to himself, reasserting his older appearance. That got a lop-sided grin from Matt.
"So if you had… if you loved Bill the last time… won't that be rather fucked up? To see him again?"
"I'll likely snog him senseless," answered Harry, with a wicked grin.
"Oh you're bent, mate."
"Tell me something I don't already know."
"And what will Cedric think of that?"
"I'll cross that bridge when I get to it," answered Harry, feeling his mood suddenly darken.
"Sorry…"
"No, don't worry about it. It's exactly the attitude we need to keep. I'll need to make a floo call to the Diggory's before we go… I'll likely spend some time there today."
"You want me to come along?"
"If you want. Ron and Hermione will likely come though, so you don't have to."
"I don't mind. I'm gonna take a shower."

Harry watched as Matt left the room. The guy was far more attached to Harry than he realized. Yet, how? The blood transfusion was one thing, but there was something more at work. Matt was fighting an internal battle with himself, that was clear enough. The incident of two days before spoke one thing, yet the signals he was giving off were a hundred and eighty degrees to that. It just didn't add up!

The trip to Diagon Alley didn't take long, other than the adventure through the floo. Matt had not yet experienced the beast that was the floo network. Even though Harry had tried to explain how it worked, they still ended up being dumped unceremoniously out of the grate at the Leaky Cauldron. After sorting themselves out, the pair wasted no time purchasing a second-and third-trunk from the same shop Harry had bought the first one. Both had small rooms in them, which Harry would expand to suit.

Returning to the trunk, Harry set the new ones in his room, then located Fred and George-they were in Jiro and Zachariah's flat, continuing to work on the notes Jiro had on his computer. Interestingly, Jiro was completely blue from head to toe for some reason-Zachariah seemed to find it rather amusing.

When Harry informed them he had purchased two new trunks, the twins broke away from their 'research', and followed Harry back up to his room. It was fascinating, watching as Harry worked an entry hall of sorts into one of the trunks, set up in a similar fashion as the original. Once he was finished, the twins took over, working rather quickly, installing what looked like an ordinary door frame on one wall within the entry hall. Harry had marked off a section that might likely end up becoming a stairwell, and so there was only one place they could put it: directly beside the ladder that led out the lid of the trunk.

With the spell work completed in the new trunk, George said, "Where did you want the door to come out to?"
"I'll show you." Harry led the twins back out of the new trunk, then out of his room, into the hall way. He pointed at the end of the corridor. "I think this would be perfect."
"Shall we?" said George.
"After you, o' brother of mine."

It took them all of fifteen minutes to complete the connection. The moment of truth came, as Fred turned the handle, and pulled the door open. Incredibly, it revealed the entry hall in the second trunk: it had worked flawlessly.
"I'll get my coin bag," said Harry.

With that taken care of, Harry located Matt, Ron, and Hermione, and the four of them floo'ed over to Cedric's. Harry knew it would not be pleasant, yet, the sight of his boyfriend petrified in his bed was staggering. He looked white as a sheet, and could easily pass for dead. Of course, that's what the Draught of Living Death actually did. Yet, this was someone he loved above all others, someone he hoped to become bonded with one day. To see him in this condition was traumatizing.

He numbly made his way to a chair that had been provided beside the bed-Mrs. Diggory occupied the one on the opposite side. Harry took Cedric's hand, and it felt like a block of ice. Yet, why were they here, facing THIS scenario all over again? It was an event he thought he had prevented. Sure, he was still alive-just. And for how long?
"Why can't they just use phoenix tears on him?" questioned Matt. He had taken to standing behind Harry, resting a hand on his shoulder.
"The last time that was tried against the body rot curse, it caused instant death," answered Hermione, "No one knows exactly why-according to the Journal of Magical Medicine. It's a most foul thing to do to someone, since there is no recorded cure."
"Believe me, Mr…" Mrs. Diggory looked at Matt.
"Matt. Matt Tuck."
"Believe me, Mr. Tuck, the healers have been all over their research with regards to this kind of curse, including some rather exotic remedies. Phoenix tears were one of the first options suggested." Matt only nodded in understanding. There would be nothing more he could offer, other than support to his new friends.

Question was, what would happen if this boy were to die? He already knew how volatile Harry was as things stood now. Sure, he planned to hook up with the other Weasley… but… no, this would be a back-breaker, no matter WHICH way one looked at it. Everything had become so FUCKING complicated! Short days before, he and his friends and band mates had been a rising star, developing a name for themselves-the music industry had most certainly sat up and took notice.

Now, they were unknown. They had lost everything and everyone who meant anything to them. Oh sure, a good portion of THAT lay at Matt's feet. Still, had that old wizard not dropped out of nowhere… never mind Harry… and why the FUCK did he feel like he had to be joined at the hip?! What was THAT all about?

He thought carefully about the past few days, absently taking a seat Harry had conjured beside him. Specifically the past few nights. How many nights now had he spent with the boy-become-man? Better question, how many nights had he spent in his own bed? Two? Both of those nights were restless and fitful, while those he spent with Harry… he slept reasonably well, save for that morning.

Then there was the incident of two days before. Sure, he had been incensed at what Harry had done. Yet, it was clearly an accident-a case of mistaken identity. The guy had been intoxicated, never mind the fact he himself had been as well. Additionally, he had subconsciously tangled himself up with the other guy! Another issue that was making his head spin. He had a girlfriend, for fuck's sake!

That evening, although his band mates had again occupied the study to jam, Matt instead sought out Ron and Hermione, before they took the floo back to Grimmauld Place. Harry had already retreated to his room to continue practicing material out of the journal he had borrowed from the headmaster.
"You guys know Harry best, right?"
"Of course! Why?" questioned Hermione.
"I guess I'm concerned… what happens if Cedric dies? It'll destroy him, just seeing how he was today… this afternoon."
"Matt… you're not telling us anything we don't already know," answered Hermione.
"He'll off himself the first chance he gets. Think of what he said day before."
"We know. Mum's got that covered. Even if I have to stun him and drag him through the floo to the Burrow myself," said Ron.
"The Burrow?"
"That's our home," Ron explained, "It's not much, but…"
"Right."
"You're sleeping with him now, are you not?" questioned Hermione.
"Err…"
"Whatever comfort you've been giving him, he needs it. If you pull away now, you'll do far more damage than any pride or ego of your own you might be bruising now."
"Listen to her… smartest witch in our year and all," Ron grinned. That earned him a swat.
"I guess I kind of already know that. Doesn't make it any easier. I feel like-"
"Like you've been forced into it?" questioned Hermione, "Think how Harry feels, having a prophecy dropped on his shoulders before he was even born."
"Touché."
"You don't have to make love to him-that's Cedric's job. You've been a great friend so far, just whatever you do, don't back away. He needs all the help he can get right now."
"And if Cedric dies?"
"Cross that bridge when-or if we get to it, mate," answered Ron, with a shrug.

Matt wasn't sure exactly what he had hoped to gain from talking with Harry's friends. Yet, it certainly didn't make him feel anymore at ease about the situation. If anything, he felt perhaps a little bit of resentment toward the raven-haired man-in-a-boy's-body. His personal space had been trampled on, after all, and Matt was by no means a lovey-dovey kind of person. How did they EXPECT him to react, be all okay with it?!

Then again… he wasn't exactly in that great a headspace either. Just about everything Matt knew was gone. He had managed to collect the things from his flat, thanks to Harry's little friend… yet, other than his band mates-and closest friends-he had lost everything. The dark wizard was at fault for that, but yet… had it not been for Harry… or that ancient wizard just before… it was no use dwelling on what would have been, he realized, making his way back to Harry's room. It would only drive him mad.

"I do not intend harm toward you." Matt found himself back in Montreal, as the strange encounter with the ancient wizard again played out in his sleeping mind. "You will remember neither me nor what I have done here, until you are before the one who will visit tonight." Of course he remembered that clear as day. Yet, in his own head, he heard something additional: "The boy is everything. Protect him with your heart and mind, for without him, there is no future."

Matt woke with a start. Where did that come from? He wondered, trying to steady his pounding heart. He had relived the experience with the ancient wizard more times than he would care to count, yet, this had been the first time he had seen the second part of it. 'So I'm to protect him? Against Voldemort? How? I'm no wizard,' he thought, rolling over onto his back, folding his hands across his chest. He realized then his shirt was sticking to him, damp with sweat. 'What am I to do, take Cedric's place? Sure, that would go over well… never mind the fact I don't play that way!' he shouted in his head, as if hoping the aged wizard could hear him. 'But… what happens should Diggory actually die?' came the answer in his head, as if playing devil's advocate. The discussion with Ron and Hermione earlier spelled things out well… they all agreed, it would be a dire circumstance should that ever come to pass. Harry would need to be watched around the clock for a foreseeable future.

With that dark prospect, Matt realized there wasn't much of a choice in the matter. Harry was starting to depend on him, and as he really thought about it… just perhaps, Matt was starting to lean on Harry as well. He rolled back onto his side, inadvertently bumping against the other sleeping form in the bed. What difference did it make? 'Damned if I do, damned if I don't,' he thought.

AUTHOR'S NOTES:
(1) Energia segregatus: loosely translates to "Segregate energy".

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: XIII - REACTIONS
NEXT CHAPTER: XV - HAPPY F'ING BIRTHDAY
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter XIII - Reactions

2009-11-20T18:01:03Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: XIII - Reactions
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~5,047
Warning(s): Coarse language, violence.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

XIII: REACTIONS
OR, REPRECUSSIONS OF THAT EVENING'S EVENTS ARE FELT

No one inside the trunk was all that concerned about Harry being out as long as he was. Cedric was with him, after all, never mind the fact Harry was in fact eleven years older, and could well take care of himself. So it was only when Jiro happened to look at the map, that they realized something was horribly wrong.
"MOTHERFUCKER!" he erupted, "Every available wand outside, right now!"
"What-why, what's going on?" questioned Sirius, joining Jiro at the map.
"Death Eaters."
"And Voldemort," said Sirius. He was at the floo in an instant, while the twins, Ron, and Hermione were with Jiro, making ready to climb out of the trunk. Voldemort and his Death Eaters were gathered in the back yard, but the house was empty.

Suddenly, with a very noisy CRACK, Harry, Matt, and Cedric appeared in the middle of the common room. All three of them looked terrible, with only Matt barely conscious. Worse, it looked like smoke was seeping out of Harry's cursed scar.
"Harry!!" Hermione shrieked, dropping to her knees beside her first magical friend. He looked of death.
"K-killing curse…" Matt stammered, hoarsely, "Dark wizard… killed him."
"Dumbledore's on his way," said Sirius, joining the others. "Mr. Tuck… was it Voldemort?"
"Yes. Don't know what… how… some fucked up ritual…"
"What happened to you? Did he hurt you too?" questioned Padge. Matt shook his head. "Cursed Cedric… Cedric needs more help than me." He was becoming slightly more coherent at this point, but he was once again shaking like a leaf.
"How did you get back here?" questioned Ron, kneeling beside Hermione. "I mean, with Harry and Cedric out and all?"
"Idunno, I just-"
"Impossible!" Jiro snorted, "He's a MUGGLE!"
"We're gonna need Madam Pomfrey here," Sirius decided.
"She'll have to come through the lid. Harry's the only one with the right to change access, I think," said Jiro.
"Which means he's not dead!" said Hermione, relieved.
"How do you know?!" Matt exclaimed, "I saw the curse hit him!"
"If he was truly dead, all the enchantments and expansions on the trunk would have failed!" Hermione persisted. She was holding Harry's hand at this point. It felt cold and lifeless. Yet, he wasn't dead. She just KNEW IT!
"Kreacher," Sirius called. The elf in question popped in and bowed low. "We need calming draughts."
"Master Harry is consuming them all earlier," the elf croaked.
"Merlin's balls. Back to what you were doing, then." Kreacher scowled at Sirius, then popped away. "I'll have to call on the last person we need here right now." He'd only gotten the words out of his mouth when the fire in the fireplace roared to life, and Snape stepped out of the floo, rubbing his left forearm. He instantly sized up the situation: the Dark Lord had been able to use Harry in his resurrection. "Move," He ordered, kneeling beside the three injured. He started, seeing the condition of Cedric. "What colour magic struck him?" he questioned Matt.
"D-didn't see," answered Matt. Snape sneered, pressing on the man's mind for a moment. He spoke the truth. Yet, the words hissed by Malfoy were enough. A Draught of Living Death would be needed at once.
"Calming draught, you will drink it. This one is for Potter." He gestured sharply at Cedric, and snapped, "Petrificus Totalus!" He was gone back through the floo quick as he had come.
"Who was that?" questioned Matt, after consuming yet another foul potion. He had gotten into a sitting position, even though every bone in his body ached for some reason, and he was still shivering.
"It was Snape," answered Hermione, "Harry told you about him earlier."

Jiro, meanwhile, was keeping an eye on the map. A number of other labels had appeared on the map, all of which were closing in on the house-none had Death Eater symbols beside them. 'Order members,' he thought.

A sharp intake of breath from Harry drew everyone's attention back to him. The boy-turned-man opened his eyes, and they burned with anguish. 'Of course,' Matt realized, 'He thinks Cedric's dead.' He reached over, and put a hand on his shoulder for support.
"How…"
"Take this," said Matt, holding out the vial Snape had left. Harry quickly consumed it, and got into a sitting position.
"Harry, what happened?" Hermione practically demanded. That got a glare from both Harry and Matt, while Harry glanced over at Cedric. His eyes welled up with tears, and he wiped them with his hand. There would be time for tears later. Whatever Malfoy had done would not be easily fixed.
"He's back. Voldemort is back," he answered, his voice barely a whisper. "Fred and George…"
"Right here, mate," said George, his twin right beside him.
"One of you or both of you… take the trunk to… to the Leaky Cauldron. Get us a room, I'll pay you back."
"Why? You need help, Harry," said Sirius.
"Dumbledore will see the trunk."
"Who bloody cares about your trunk? Harry, Cedric's been cursed with something truly awful, gauging the reaction from Snape!"
"Guys…" said Harry again, and the twins left the room. "Are they still out there-Voldemort, I mean?"
"Yeah, there's about twelve or fourteen people in your back yard now," answered Jiro, still watching the map. Just then, the map scrambled. The trunk was in transit. It cleared up as abruptly as it scrambled, now showing the inside of a building, along with a number of labels. The place was quite busy, given the time of day.

The floo fired again, and Snape again stepped out of it.
"Professor," said Harry.
"Diggory has been struck with a body rot curse," said Snape, forcing the teen's mouth open with a finger. He dumped the contents of a vial down his throat.
"He'll be all right?"
"I do not know, Potter. He will need to be transported to either Hogwarts or St. Mungo's."
"His parents, they need to know," said Harry, standing. He was shaky on his feet, but still offered Matt a hand up. Both of them looked like death warmed over. They both tottered over to the couches in front of the fireplace, and sat-or more like fell-into one of them.
"Explain," said Snape, following. The rest of the group gathered around them.
"Pettigrew ambushed us in the house," said Harry. He paused, then gestured at the small coffee table with his hand, conjuring up glasses of water.
"Thanks," said Matt, "Though I think I'll need something much stronger later."
"You and me alike," Harry agreed, and downed the glass. He was running on pure adrenalin at this point-without it, he would have collapsed in anguish the second he woke. "Anyway… he attacked us… managed to stun us… he had the cauldron ready in the back yard, did the same ritual he used the first time around. Voldemort's back… he let Malfoy curse Cedric… and he… he cast the killing curse at me…"

Harry had not thought too much about how he would deal with the Horcrux that lay in his scar. Yet, as the green bolt of magic slammed into him, he knew he wouldn't have to at this point.

For now, the boy-who-lived climbed back to his feet. The place was very different from the first time he had fell to Voldemort's killing curse. The first time, he had landed at King's Cross train station, where he and Dumbledore had a conversation. This time, it looked like an open amphitheatre, where several robed individuals looked toward him. One of them approached.
"Welcome, chosen one," he spoke, smiling. The first thing that struck Harry, was how tall he was. Fair skinned, with aristocratic features, and long, silvery hair that fell down his back, tied in a pony tail. He wore white robes with gold trim, and sandals with strapping that disappeared under his robes. He could feel the ambient magic humming about, so much it was making him feel light-headed. But perhaps that was from the killing curse…
"We hadn't expected to see you here so soon," spoke another. She was equally beautiful as the first speaker was handsome, wearing similar white robes, although hers were trimmed in emerald green.
"Where am I?"
"That does not matter at this time, magical descendant," said the first, "You have a destiny greater than you can ever imagine. Yet, now is not the time nor the place for that sort of conversation, Harry."
"How do I get back? The Horcrux is gone? That's the only two things I need to know."
"Rather impatient now, are we?" spoke the woman, with a musical laugh. "Yes, the Horcrux has been most definitely destroyed. Your getting back where you belong, we will help you with that."
"A greater destiny? So… that's why I came back, then. Why I have to deal with Voldemort a second time?" Harry guessed.
"Yes and no…"
"Ninesto, time is up, he has to be returned," spoke a third individual.
"All will be revealed, Harry."
"Wait! That's not very helpful!" Harry shouted, but the world was already fading away.

"How did I get back here?" questioned Harry, his mind again focusing on the common room and those around him.
"Yeah, a good question."
"I told you!" Matt spoke, angrily, "'I' DID IT!"
"You… you did accidental magic?"
"Idunno, I just… wanted to get us away from the bastard and… we appeared here."
"Matt… you…" Harry closed his eyes for a moment, realizing the gravity of it. Voldemort would have most likely taken the three of them, and committed various evil acts against them, dead or not. "A debt… paid in full," he whispered. At Harry's words, Matt felt a warm tingle run down his spine.
"But, HOW?" Hermione demanded, "Matt's just a Muggle!"
"If what he says is true, I daresay no he's not," said Sirius. Just then, the twins appeared with a noisy CRACK. "We're set up in a room for the night," said George.
"You two will take Mr. Diggory to the Hogwarts infirmary," Snape directed the twins. "You will tell Madam Pomfrey he's been cursed with the body decaying curse."
"Yes professor," said Fred.
"I'm going too," Harry declared, making to stand, but Matt grabbed onto him. "NO you're not… if you feel like I do, you won't make it ten fucking feet."
"Harry, there's nothing you can do for him right now," said Sirius. His face said it all. The body decaying curse was usually fatal.
"What does the curse do?" questioned Matt, while Harry sat back on the couch, scowling, his arms folded across his chest.
"It quite literally causes the body to attack itself from the inside out. Never mind the excruciating pain it causes, the victim usually succumbs within twenty-four hours. A horrible way to die."
"Sounds like the Ebola virus or something," said Padge. He and the other members of Matt's band had remained quiet for the most part, still unsure what to think of the situation.
"What… what did you give him, professor?" Harry questioned.
"Draught of Living Death," answered Snape.
"What's that do?" questioned Matt.
"It puts someone into a deep sleep," answered Harry, thinking, 'At least he won't be in pain.'
"Along with the petrifying jinx, it will hold him stable until we can treat him. Do beware, Potter, we may not be able to help him," said Snape.
"I… I know. Thanks for your help, professor." Harry happened to look over, and noticed Matt was missing a clump of hair. A smile threatened to form on his lips, but the incidents they had just gone through prevented it. He only reached over and pressed a finger to the back of Matt's head. "Now I know you apparated us back into the trunk… you're missing a clump of hair right there."
"He splinched himself," said Sirius.
"At least it wasn't something more important."
"So… does that sort of thing happen often?" questioned Matt, uneasily, reaching back a hand to feel the spot Harry was pointing to. Sure enough, there was a significantly thinner spot at the very back of his scalp.
"Yeah. It means you weren't determined enough. I still can't believe you managed to apparate, never mind the fact you did a double side-along on your first attempt."
"HEY, it's not like I PLANNED on doing it!" Matt huffed.
"No, and I'm thankful you did it somehow."
"Thought I was gonna be sick for a few moments… the feeling is really fucked up."
"You get used to it after a while," Harry responded with a shrug. Without realizing it, he had allowed his arm to slide around Matt's shoulders.
"I am returning to Hogwarts to help Madam Pomfrey. Get some sleep, Potter," said Snape, stepping over to the floo. He took a handful of floo powder, threw it into the fire, and when the flames turned green, he stepped into them, calling out, "Hogwarts, Professor Snape's office!" he vanished in the fire, which then returned to normal. Just then, a screech owl swooped in through the door that led to the entry hall. It soared across the room, dropped a large envelope it carried in its beak into Harry's lap, then swung around, heading back from whence it came.

Harry almost exploded with rage, already knowing what the envelope contained, seeing the large 'M' stencilled on the front. He had no doubt it was the same owl who had delivered the letter the first time around.
"What… what is it?" questioned Matt, as Harry opened the letter. "Bad news," he answered, as he read:

Dear Mr. Potter,
We have received intelligence that you performed the Patronus Charm at twenty-one minutes past eight this evening in a Muggle-inhabited area and in the presence of a Muggle. Further, we received additional intelligence that you performed four stunning hexes, two disarming hexes, and two blasting curses, fifty-three seconds later.
The severity of this breach of the Decree for the Reasonable Restriction of Underage Sorcery has resulted in your expulsion from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Ministry representatives will be calling at your place of residence shortly to destroy your wand.
As you have already received an official warning for a previous offence under Section 13 of the International Confederation of Warlocks' Statute of Secrecy, we regret to inform you that your presence is required at a disciplinary hearing at the Ministry of Magic at 9 a.m. on the second of August.
Hoping you are well,
Yours sincerely,
Mafalda Hopkirk,
Improper Use of Magic Office
Ministry of Magic(1)

"As if this can't get any better," he hissed, dropping the letter in his lap. Matt picked it up.
"What is it?" questioned Padge.
"I did magic outside of school in front of Muggles," said Harry, "I have to attend a hearing."
"But… you were just protecting us," Matt was very confused.
"It's that Umbridge woman. She set the Dementors on me last time. Never mind the fact the ministry has no idea I have wizard friends visiting who are of age… or the fact Voldemort decided to have his rebirthing ceremony IN MY FUCKING AUNT'S BACK GARDEN!!"
"The things in the alley… what were they?" questioned Matt, trying to keep Harry from going off the deep end. Even he could tell he was a breath away from cursing someone, or someTHING.
"Dementors," answered the boy-who-lived, "They normally guard Azkaban… I told you about it."
"It felt like… like I was…"
"Never gonna be happy again," Harry finished, "I know. Last time around, it was my cousin." He pointed an index finger at Matt, whispering an incantation. "Better?"
"A fair bit."
"It only goes so far."
"Thanks."
"Harry, what happens when the Order and the ministry show up at your relatives' and you're not there?" Sirius pointed out. Harry only shrugged. "Better I'm not there."
"But people will be worried!" Hermione persisted, "You have to tell people where you are."
"Guys… LOOK! I was attacked by Voldemort for the second time in four days. My boyfriend's been almost KILLED! One of my new best friends almost had his SOUL sucked out of him! Do you really think I want to face Dumbledore and his 'you must be protected' dragon shit right now?!" A number of smaller items in the common room actually began to vibrate as Harry's temper rose. He blew out a breath, reigning it in-it wouldn't do to blow up the room, after all.
"Dumbledore will have to be told something," Sirius persisted.

They were interrupted, as another owl, this one a barn owl, swooped in through the entry hall, to land on the coffee table in front of Harry and Matt. It held out its leg, which had a small roll of parchment secured to it. Harry took it, but said, "Wait, please." The owl blinked, and began preening its feathers, while Harry read:

Harry-
Dumbledore's just arrived at the Ministry and he's trying to sort it all out. DO NOT LEAVE YOUR AUNT AND UNCLE'S HOUSE. DO NOT DO ANY MORE MAGIC. DO NOT SURRENDER YOUR WAND.
Arthur Weasley(2)

Harry had to let out a small laugh. "Little late," he said, picking up a loose page of parchment from the coffee table. He grabbed a Muggle pen, and scribbled out a response. "This should cover it." He rolled it up, secured it to the owl's leg, and the bird took off, flying from whence it came.
"What did you say?" questioned Sirius.
"Exactly as it is. Too late, I've already left my relatives', but I've gone somewhere I think should be safe for the time being, and I'll be in touch."
"Dumbledore won't like that answer, Harry," said Hermione, shaking her head.
"So what? I don't care." He went to stand, but was nailed with a strong bout of vertigo, and quite literally fell back onto the couch. "I can quite take care of myself, I don't need minders." The adrenaline was wearing off, and the anger he was feeling was quickly being replaced by fear and sadness. "I can't even be with Cedric."

Everyone fell silent, as the reality set in. They were all well aware of what had happened the first time around for Harry. Now, it looked very much like history was about to repeat. Would the boy-become-man be able to handle it?

The silence was disturbed by the arrival of a third owl, who landed on the coffee table, blinking expectantly, a letter in its beak. Harry accepted it, and the bird left. He quickly opened the letter:

Dear Mr. Potter,
Further to our letter of approximately fourteen minutes ago, the Ministry of Magic has revised its decision to destroy your wand forthwith. You may retain your wand until your disciplinary hearing on the second of August, at which time an official decision will be taken.
Following discussions with the Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, the Ministry has agreed that the question of your expulsion will also be decided at that time. You should therefore consider yourself suspended from school pending further inquiries.
With best wishes,
Yours sincerely,
Mafalda Hopkirk,
Improper Use of Magic Office
Ministry of Magic(3)

"Harry… for what it's worth… I'll go to court with you," said Matt, "I'll testify in your defence."
"Don't know how much weight your testimony will carry, Mr. Tuck," said Sirius, "Wizarding society looks down at Muggles, they see you as being below the rest of us."
"And do you think that, Mr. Black?" questioned Matt.
"No. But my opinion is rare amongst pure-blooded witches and wizards."
"But he's not really a Muggle all the same," Hermione pointed out, "He somehow did accidental magic."
"I expected it," said Harry.
"Expected it? How?"
"When he was injured by Voldemort the first day we met back in his world," Harry explained, "I gave him some of my blood. Blood replenishing potions don't work well with Muggles-I remembered that from a few years ago."
"So just passing him a wizard's blood… made him a wizard?" Padge was sceptical.
"Something like that. And tonight… he saved our lives… really, Voldemort would have likely done terrible things to him, never mind what he would have done to MY body." He drew in a deep breath, and exhaled. "Y'know, what's the point of me coming back, if everything's just gonna play out the same way?" Harry questioned, frustrated.
"It's not the same, though, mate," said Ron.
"It IS the same… we're with the same result-Umbridge sent those FUCKING Dementors to Little Whinging, I'll bet you a bag full of Galleons! I'll face the full Wizengamot for something that should at best involve the Improper Use of Magic office!" He tried to stand for a second time, but was again forced back down by a powerful sense of vertigo. "Well, let me tell you this! I'll roast that idiot Fudge over an open fire, him along WITH that useless toad!" He paused again, reigning in his emotions. "D'you know, if they make me face the entire Wizengamot, they inadvertently grant me adult rights?"
"So maybe this is a good thing, kiddo," said Sirius, at last taking a seat on an adjacent couch.
"It's not you that has to go through this, Padfoot. To have to deal with the smear campaign from the ministry and the Prophet."
"Can't you sue them?" questioned Jay. Harry let out a laugh, although it was not in the least bit amusing. "If only! Wizarding society is so far in the dark ages regarding that kind of thing."
"Maybe now is a time to start," said Padge.
"Like how? You're talking about centuries of bureaucratic process, never mind the pure bloods. They would never allow for such a thing."

Of course, both Padge and Jay's comments got Harry thinking. If he could get the help of the goblins, that might actually work. Yet, dealing with the goblins at Gringotts was dodgy at best… they were creatures not to be trusted. So how could he pull something like that off? A good Wizarding solicitor might have suggestions…
"Guys… there's not much else we can do at this point," Harry finally said, "Get some rest."
"You're sure you're all right?" questioned Padge, gesturing to Matt.
"Yeah, I'll live." Padge shrugged, and left, with Jay and Moose following. A bedroom door closed moments later.
"Mr. Weasley and Miss Granger, you two can borrow my room-I won't be needing it tonight," said Matt.
"I'll transfigure an extra bed for one of you," Sirius offered, standing.
"You might want to floo Grimmauld Place and let Mrs. Weasley know as well… Merlin knows I'm in for a strong talking-to from her as it is."
"Fred, George… we can get back to work dealing with your notes," said Zachariah.
"Right," George agreed.
"Come get us if you need something," Fred added, and they, along with Jiro and Zachariah, popped out of the room.
"Y'know, a stiff drink would do well about now," Matt remarked. That got a nod from Harry. "Tempus," he spoke, and '9:48 p' drifted from the end of his extended index finger. Then, it dawned on him. He didn't have his wand. "SHIT!"
"What?" questioned Ron. He and Hermione still occupied the couch to Harry's right.
"My wand. I don't have my wand-I dropped it when Wormtail stunned me at my aunt's house."
"Couldn't you get the phoenix to get it for you?" Matt suggested. Harry nodded, but realized he probably didn't need to go that far. "Kreacher?" The elf appeared in front of him with a soft pop. "Master Harry call for Kreacher?"
"We were attacked at my relatives' place. If I show you where, can you retrieve my wand?" The elf nodded, and Harry gently passed the memory of his aunt's house to the elf. It was a rather dicey thing passing memories to a house elf, but it could be done. "Got it?"
"Kreacher is seeing Master Harry's memory now." He popped away.

He was only gone for about ten seconds. He returned, looking rather pleased with himself, the object of his hunt gripped firmly in his little hands.
"Okay, spill. What did you do?" Harry questioned, although he smirked, having a pretty good idea of what had happened. The elf passed Harry his wand, saying, "Nasty Muggle was trying to attack Kreacher, so Kreacher is sending nasty Muggle through cupboard in the hallway."
"The cupboard under the stairs," said Harry, looking rather amused. "Serves him right. Was he about my age?" Kreacher nodded. "Good. You did well, Kreacher." Harry thought for a moment. "If I give you some Galleons, could you visit Tom in the Leaky Cauldron, and pick us up a bottle of firewhiskey?"
"Kreacher is knowing Tom," answered the elf. Harry stuck out a hand. "Accio money pouch."

It took a few moments, but finally, a small pouch drifted into Harry's outstretched hand. He opened it, fishing out a fist-full of gold coins. "Here. Get us whatever that will buy-and keep whatever's left over," he added, seeing the glare Hermione was giving him. The elf bowed and popped away.
"Harry, you sure that's a good idea, mate?"
"What, me getting shit-faced? Considering I've just relived one of my worst nightmares? I think I'm entitled." He gestured at himself, once again restoring his older appearance. "Just a reminder of who I truly am."
"So? It still doesn't mean you can be irresponsible!" Hermione scolded.
"My new wizard friend and I are going to get quietly drunk, and try to forget what's happened tonight. My boyfriend may DIE tonight, and I can't be there. How would you feel if it were Ron, Hermione? -never mind what that would do to me, but…" The bushy-haired witch sighed, understanding all too well. Since the end of the school year they had been in daily contact, and with Harry's disappearance, they had been together at Grimmauld Place. With his one comment, Harry had drew their feelings and attraction to one another out into the open.

Nearly a minute passed before Kreacher returned with a soft pop, bringing with him three bottles of amber liquid. Harry thanked the elf, and he popped away.
"I warn you, this shit's VERY strong," said Harry, conjuring up two glasses.
"Bring it," Matt smirked. Harry only nodded, and poured two generous portions. He set the bottle down, then passed a glass to Matt. "To surviving… again," he muttered, and glasses clinked.
"Harry!" Hermione was clearly not impressed.
"What, it's true," said Harry, and downed the glass. Matt didn't hesitate, also downing his glass-after all, he most certainly enjoyed more than the odd drink.

He was momentarily startled at the strength of the beverage. Harry had warned him it was strong, but this-was unexpected.
"Damn!" he managed, but held out the glass.
"I do believe Mr. Tuck likes it," Harry smirked, refilling their glasses. Hermione did a VERY good imitation of professor McGonagall, and said, "Fine. If this is what you two plan on doing for the rest of the night, I think we can find something better to do."
"But… 'mione, what about-"(4)
"What. Did you call me?" Hermione turned abruptly to face Ron.
"'mione-"
"Don't. EVER. Call. Me. That. Again," Hermione hissed.
"Right," Harry warned, "Listen to her, mate, last time I heard you say that she cursed your mouth off for an hour."
"I take it miss Granger doesn't like pet names?" Matt smirked, and downed his second drink. Just then, Sirius reappeared from the corridor. "What, I'm not invited?" he noted the bottles on the table.
"Want some?"
"Actually, no. I do need to get back to Grimmauld Place. I'll make sure the Order knows you're okay."
"Okay. Thanks."
"You've got hangover cures, I hope."
"Yeah, got that covered."
"You're encouraging him? Uhg!" Hermione muttered, standing, "Come on, Ronald."
"It's not my place to scold him anymore," answered Sirius, with a shrug, "Considering what he's faced. Keep that in mind, Hermione." He activated the floo, and vanished into the green flames.
"What'll your mother say?"
"Oh Merlin, Hermione, don't play the guilt trip. The idea's to at least temporarily forget things. It's either that, or I spend some time in front of a mirror with my wand."
"Why would you do that?" questioned Matt, as he helped himself to a third glass full of the amber liquid.
"It's a joke," answered Harry, "Self-obliviation is dangerous. You could completely wipe your memories."
"'night, Harry," said Ron, as Hermione led him away.
"Your friends aren't all that impressed."
"Thank you captain Obvious," Harry snorted, "Bloody hell, they're not my minders."
"Just let it go, mate," said Matt, refilling both their glasses. Harry only nodded, accepting one of them. The amber liquid was already having an effect on him, and if he could help it, he wouldn't know which was up by the end of the night.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: NO. Cedric is not going to die (although at this point, Harry doesn't know that). He will remain in the story, and will make a full return in the future. Right now, I needed him to be elsewhere.

Ron and Hermione were meant for each other. Do I have to say it again. Loads of people think they weren't, saying they fight too much. Me, I say that's EXACTLY why they belong together. It's not so much fighting, but arguing, a demonstration there is chemistry and passion there. After all, there are a few canon pairings that just don't work all that well… Bill and Fleur, Harry and Ginny (to a lesser extent, anyway)…

(1) Taken from p. 29 - 30, Order of the Phoenix, Canadian soft-cover edition. Most of it verbatim.
(2) Taken from p. 31, Order of the Phoenix, Canadian soft-cover edition.
(3) Taken from p. 34 - 35, Order of the Phoenix, Canadian soft-cover edition.
(4) I don't know where other authors came up with this, but I hate it, and I think Hermione would hate it too. So she sets the record straight right off the hop. The one and only place this will ever be used in this fiction.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: XII - AN UNPLEASANT HOUSE CALL
NEXT CHAPTER: XIV - BOUNDARIES PUSHED
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter XII - An Unpleasant House Call

2009-11-19T11:00:14Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: XII - An Unpleasant House Call
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~2,626
Warning(s): Coarse language, violence.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

XII: AN UNPLEASANT HOUSE CALL
OR, LORD VOLDEMORT COMES CALLING AT PRIVET DRIVE

The sun had at last set as the trio began walking back to Privet Drive. It was somewhat liberating to be out and about without too much concern about being bothered or recognized. He still retained his 'older' appearance, and so no one gave him a second look as they walked down Magnolia Crescent.

Mrs. Figg's cats, on the other hand. Harry had completely forgotten about her and her many pets. Of course, he knew now all about them being spies. There were currently four of them watching from various places as the trio passed.
"Shit. Guys, we have to get back." He pointed to one of the cats, which happened to be black.
"Don't tell me you're superstitious," Matt snorted.
"No. I know who owns that cat… and that one… and that one…" he pointed off each of them.
"So?"
"They're part kneazle… a magical animal. They're VERY smart, and most definitely keep tabs on me. And, they know me by scent and magical signature, so my appearance doesn't matter."
"So… some people or things can see through your disguise?"
"Absolutely. Harry couldn't walk into Gringotts that way," said Cedric, as they entered the alley between Magnolia Crescent and Wisteria Walk.
"Is it just me… or is it getting cold suddenly?" Harry was thinking the exact same thing.
"Matt… get in between us," said Cedric, "Whatever happens, do EXACTLY what we tell you to."
"What… what is it?"
"Dementors."

All three of them could see their breaths now as they stood in the alley way. The sky itself had suddenly become black as the oncoming night, and the street lights had gone out, leaving nothing but pitch-blackness. Save for their heavy breaths, not a sound could be heard otherwise. The three of them were shivering violently from the sharp cold that had suddenly gripped the alley-it had been a warm evening, after all. Ice was forming on the fences that lined the properties on either side due to it.
"Can't see a thing," Matt whispered.
"Shhh… I'm trying to-" And there it was. Just like the first time… the thing he was dreading. Something was drawing long, hoarse, rattling breaths(1).
"Wands out!" Harry hissed, drawing his. "LUMOS!"

A bright light flared from the tip of his wand, lighting up the area immediately around them. Cedric copied him, and the three of them were stopped short by what it revealed.
"Oh Merlin…" Cedric managed, for there were at least eight hooded shapes encircling them. "EXPECTO PATRONUM!"

A moderate-sized badger burst from Cedric's wand, and charged at one of the foul creatures that was making a run at the group. It was thrown into the air by it.
"EXPECTO PATRONUM!" Harry shouted, and in an instant, his stag joined Cedric's badger, driving off the beasts.

Matt was both terrified and astounded by the events unfolding around him. As terrifying as the Dementors were, the charms Harry and Cedric were using were equally awe-inspiring. The badger seemed to run alongside the stag, teaming up to dispatch two and three at once, driving them back into the sky.

In his fascination with what was happening, he failed to notice a pair of the foul creatures approaching from the rear. He was suddenly grabbed from behind and slammed to the ground. In an instant, he was again seeing the death of Harry's parents-and nothing. He succumbed to the darkness.

"Matt?!" Harry shouted, wheeling around. His heart stopped, as he saw a dark shape leaning over his new friend, hood already lowered, only a second away from taking his soul. "GET IT!" Harry commanded, and his Patronus lunged at the target, forcing it to swoop away. 'Why the FUCK won't they leave?' "Matt?"
"Harry, we have to get out of here!" Cedric shouted.
"I know that! Get over here! -GET IT!" he cried again, as another Dementor attempted to take advantage of their prone position. "Help me lift him up," he said as Cedric knelt beside him. Between the two of them, they lifted Matt off the ground. "Apparate?"
"Take my arm, then," said Harry. He had Matt hoisted over his shoulder practically like a bag of potatoes-the weight was staggering. 'This is going to be interesting', he thought, as Cedric grabbed his free arm. He did his best to twist on the spot, and the three of them vanished with a loud CRACK.

The three of them collapsed heavily on the front lawn of No. 4, Privet Drive. The street lights were all on, and the stars were out-they had escaped the Dementors.
"Bloody hell!" Harry swore, at once checking Matt over. "Rennervate." He spoke, touching the guy's chin with an index finger. His eyes snapped open, but they held abject terror. What had he seen? What were his worst memories?
"Is… are… th… th… they gone?"
"They're gone. You saw them?" Harry arched an eyebrow as Matt seemed to nod. He gestured at himself, restoring his younger appearance… no doubt members of the Order would show up at any minute, and possibly someone from the ministry. He had to look the part.
"How come you didn't just apparate us into the trunk, Harry?" questioned Cedric, stowing his wand, "He needs a calming draught at minimum."
"Yes and I need to restock my stores. I guess I just… not the first time I've missed my destination. C'mon, let's get back into the trunk." He again looked at Matt. "Are you hurt anywhere?"
"No… just… mind's a little… cluttered." Matt's eyes had become less-focused at this point.
"It'll be that way for a bit. Let me help you up, you can lean on me." He reached out a hand, which Matt barely gripped. He was definitely in no shape to be moving much. "Cedric, a hand?"

With Matt supported between them, the three of them stepped through the door to No. 4 Privet Drive. His relatives were still not home, and the house was dark-they hadn't planned on being out as late as they were. Then-
"EXPELLIARMUS!" came the voice of a man he loathed meet again, and Harry's wand flew out of his hand, clattering against the door frame.
"STUPEFY!" Cedric snapped, but to no avail.
"EXPELLIARMUS!" came the voice again, but the spell smashed into one of the pictures hanging on the wall in the entry way.
"Hold onto me!" Harry hissed, jabbing a hand out at the unseen attacker. Yet, the spell also slammed into the far wall rather than impacting something. He tried to apparate again, but quickly realized he couldn't.
"STUPEFY!" the voice cried again, and Harry felt Matt go limp. 'Better he be stunned than dead,' he thought, darkly. Cedric seemed to have the same idea, and although they continued laying fire back on their unseen attacker, they both let Matt down to the floor gently.
"I know it's you, Wormtail," said Harry, "Come back to finish what you started?"
"STUPEFY!" came Wormtail's voice again, and both Harry and Cedric had to dodge the spell.
"Reducto charm," Harry whispered, and Cedric nodded. "REDUCTO!" Harry seized the opportunity, and summoned his wand back to him. "REDUCTO!" Both spells slammed into the back of uncle Vernon's favourite chair, blasting it to many pieces. Wormtail responded sending a purple jet of magic at them, which they both dodged.
"Ced… go up to my room, get help!" Harry instructed.
"NO! Don't be a-"
"STUPEFY!" Cedric was nailed in the chest and fell limp, such was Matt.
"Where are your friends now, Potter?" Wormtail cackled, now framing the opposite end of the corridor, brandishing Voldemort's yew wand. Harry launched several more stunning charms, but the older wizard dodged them all, and this time, on the way to the floor, he sent three separate stunners toward the boy. Harry's world faded to black.

The next thing Harry knew, he was being tied securely to the large tree in the back yard. A large, man-sized cauldron sat on the ground not far from him. Cedric and Matt were both piled against the back hedge, although from what he could see, neither were actually tied up. Matt looked to be somewhat conscious, but Cedric was still out cold. If Cedric would wake up…
"Ah, our guest has awoken," spoke Wormtail, and Harry's scar seemed to explode in pain. That was all the answer he needed-he knew what was going on.
"It was most unfortunate our little birthday party was so interrupted," spoke Wormtail, "So my master and I thought we should visit you and help you celebrate yours just a few days early." While he spoke, he was moving about the cauldron. He pointed his wand at it, and a fire lit beneath it, causing the contents of the cauldron to boil quickly. Sparks were flying from the boiling mixture, and as his scar burst to life with pain again, a voice came from a bundle of robes near the bench. "Quickly now!" Harry already knew what was in the robes, but could do nothing. The traitor had bound him up too tightly. Even his hands were bound. He needed a free hand to do even wandless magic.

Wormtail was already retrieving the bundle of robes and the ugly creature that lay within it. Already he was visualizing the ugly 'baby' form of Voldemort, as Wormtail carried it over to the rapidly boiling cauldron. And there it was, the ugly creature, being dumped into the boiling mixture. It seemed to sputter and spew forth even more sparks, as the mutated thing sunk to the bottom of the cauldron. But Wormtail was drawing a jar full of fine dust from his robes.
"Bone of the father, unknowingly given, YOU will renew your son!" he spoke, dumping the contents of the jar into the cauldron. With a hiss, the contents of the cauldron now shimmered a poisonous blue colour, continuing to sputter and hiss sparks in all directions.

But now, Wormtail was whimpering, and Harry knew what was about to happen next. He didn't look away, however, having seen horrors far worse.
"F-f-flesh of s-s-servant, w-willingly given… you… w-w-will revive your master…" He held his right hand in front of him, and using the blade he produced, he brought the knife down in a violent slash, cleanly slicing off the hand just above the wrist. It landed in the evil concoction with a sickening plop while Wormtail screamed to the night. The potion turned a brilliant, bloody red colour, and seemed to light up the back yard. A glance over at Matt told him the guy was beyond terrified. He turned back to find Wormtail was again in front of him.
"I will kill you one day, traitor," Harry vowed, but Wormtail didn't seem fazed. He had brought the blade up to Harry's arm, which was exposed, and dragged it across the skin, then slid it back into his robes. Producing a small vial, he collected blood from the cut. "B-blood of the enemy… forcibly taken… you will… resurrect your foe."

Wormtail staggered back to the bubbling cauldron, and dumped the contents of the vial into it, causing the contents to turn a brilliant, blinding white. Even Harry had to shield his eyes from it. The showering sparks reached a crescendo, culminating with a tremendous blast of steam which shrouded the yard in a fog.

As it had been the last time, Harry hoped against hope it had somehow failed. Yet, exactly as the first time around, his hopes fell on deaf ears. A silhouette of a figure was rising from the cauldron. "Robe me," came the high, cold, voice. Still sighing and whimpering, Wormtail complied, gathering the silk robes from the bench with his good arm, and slid them over Voldemort's head.

Voldemort spent a minute or so inspecting himself. Appearing pleased with the result, he then turned to Wormtail. "Your arm, Wormtail."
"Oh thank you, master," said Wormtail, holding out the arm that was now missing a hand.
"Your OTHER arm, Wormtail."

Harry knew what was about to happen, but there was no way to brace for it. His scar again seemed to explode in pain, as Voldemort touched the dark mark on Wormtail's forearm. "Let us see how many are brave enough to return."
"The ministry… the magic detectors… Aurors will be here any minute," said Harry.
"At which time I will be long gone, and you… will be dead," answered Voldemort, "We have three guests with us tonight." He smiled, turning his attention to Cedric and Matt. "Rather handsome, the pair of them." He seemed to think on something. "Wormtail had a bit of fun with this one, I think. Or was it something else? Yes, I see it in his eyes. Dementors so close to home, Harry?"
"Leave him alone!" Voldemort spun around to face Harry again. "He your boyfriend?"
"N-no," Harry ground out, his scar still blazing with white-hot pain. He felt a powerful thrust against his mental defences. It was staggering, but he held on. It stopped shortly after.
"The boy has strong mental defences. Someone has taught him well-ah, look, Harry. My family arrives!"

Sure enough, six dark shapes materialized in the back yard. Each wore black robes, and were hooded and masked. Yet, Harry could spot several masks which he recognized. Lucius Malfoy was amongst them, as was McNair.

Unlike last time, however, Voldemort did not go into his speeches. He healed Wormtail's hand, giving him a new, shiny, silver one. He then turned back to his Death Eaters. "Our time here is short, if what Potter says is true. Cut him from his restraints, and place him with his friends. It should only be appropriate they die together."

Wormtail quickly banished the ropes binding Harry to the tree, and placed him in a full body bind. He was floated over to where Cedric and Matt were held-another Death Eater had revived Cedric.
"Master… time is running out," Wormtail warned.
"And so it is. Any final words, Harry Potter?"
"I call back the life debt owed by Peter Pettigrew!" Harry shouted, "His payment shall be his very life!"

Wormtail had no chance to react to the utterance. It was as if Harry had cast the killing curse on the beady-eyed man. He collapsed to the ground like a marionette who'd had its strings cut. The Death Eaters gathered in the yard muttered amongst themselves, while Voldemort only looked at Harry with… perhaps a little shock? The boy had most certainly shocked him with that action! Nonetheless…
"Who shall die first, Harry? Your friend Cedric? Or the Muggle? Not that it will matter." Malfoy then whispered something in his ear, and Voldemort seemed to nod. "Indeed. How can I turn up an opportunity for my loyal servants to demonstrate their research. Since Harry Potter will not decide who goes first, I leave that to you, Lucius."
"The Muggle doesn't appear all the 'fresh', shall we say, my lord," spoke Malfoy, "This particular curse, we should have a specimen in better shape. Therefore it shall be the wizard." He levelled his wand at Cedric, and gestured with a harsh series of motions, then hissed, "Internus Corpus Mortalis!"

Cedric was instantly writhing in pain. It was as if he were nailed with the Cruciatus curse. Whatever the curse was, everything felt wrong!
"Perhaps we should save the Muggle, master. He does have a pretty face, after all," spoke McNair. Voldemort only laughed, saying, "I shall allow that. Good bye, Harry Potter." Voldemort levelled his wand at the boy-who-lived. "Avada Kedavra."

AUTHOR'S NOTES:

(1) Taken from p.20, Order of the Phoenix, Canadian soft-cover edition.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: XI - HARRY SPINS A TALE
NEXT CHAPTER: XIII - REACTIONS
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter XI - Harry Spins a Tale

2009-11-13T19:22:13Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: XI - Harry Spins a Tale
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~3,874
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

XI: HARRY SPINS A TALE
OR, HARRY'S CLOSEST FRIENDS OLD AND NEW LEARN A FEW THINGS

As it became evident Cedric would likely be staying in the trunk, another change had to be made. Harry had quickly explained what had happened to Matt, and the change in sleeping arrangements.

Of course, that would no longer do, but Cedric came up with a compromise. He understood the reasoning behind Harry's invitation, in that Matt would not be sleeping alone. That didn't mean they had to share a bed, however, and so a second four-posted double bed was added in the opposite corner, after furniture was moved around.

Now, as it neared 11 pm, Cedric and Harry were cuddled together on Harry's bed, although Harry was engrossed in the journal he had borrowed from Dumbledore. He hadn't practiced the Doppelganger charm, but was instead studying something else, the main reason for obtaining the journal in the first place.

Matt occupied his new bed, although he was also nowhere near ready to sleep. The days' events most certainly weighed heavily on his mind, and even though the notebook lay open on his lap, the words did not come to him.

The trio was interrupted with a knock on the door. Zachariah framed the doorway.
"Come in," said Harry, setting the journal aside, and swinging his legs over the side of the bed. "Right, forgot you wanted to talk to me."
"We can pay the fine, but… you guys seem to need the equipment more. The twins-"
"I doubt it's worth five thousand galleons," Harry interjected.
"Not right off, no, but think of the potential profit."
"Stuff the twins have a right to as it is."
"…"
"Did he tell you everything that happened?"
"He shared his memories. Part of me wants to scream at you for doing that, but… I can't. Even 'I' warned him last time this went down. You won't believe the number of times I've had to haul his ass out of the fire. He thinks just because he's a wizard he can get away with doing whatever he pleases, consequences be damned… The thing is, he also forgets this shit affects me too."
"Sounds like you put up with a lot of shit, then," said Matt.
"Sometimes…" Zachariah let out a sigh, and dragged a chair away from the newly conjured desk, taking a seat. "I've almost divorced him three times now. But… who's gonna protect him without me?"
"Maybe that's not your responsibility, mate," said Cedric.
"I find it rather comical," said Matt, "A Muggle minding the wizard? Sounds rather bent to me."
"Tell me about it," Zachariah snorted, "But…" he sighed again, continuing, "I don't know what I would do without him. You know what I mean, Harry, I can see it between you two…" he gestured at Harry and Cedric-the brown-haired teen had also swung his legs over the side of the bed, and now sat dangerously close to Harry, an arm slid around his waist. "Anyway," Zachariah continued, "I promise to do my best to keep Jiro under control. From what you've told us, you need all the help you can get… and Jiro DEFINITELY knows what he's doing."
"I'll concede that," said Harry, "Thing is, I also have to look out for Matt here, never mind his friends. They're about ready to murder your husband, and I really don't blame them. He should know better than that!"
"You're preaching to the choir there," Zachariah agreed, "So the trade is a no go."
"I can't. He has to understand I'm not joking. Next time it happens, he'll be out of here, and there will be charges filed with the ministry."
"Never mind what I will do to him," said Matt, darkly.
"You can't forgive him?"
"No. Your… partner attacked me twice. Once was bad enough… twice? No, Jiro's made himself an enemy."

Zachariah blew out a breath, standing. "All right. Disappointed, but I understand. You guys have a right to feel like you do… and I guess I would too." He left the room, saying, "'Night."
"Harry… you're sure it's a good idea to keep him around? You're asking for trouble, I reckon," said Cedric, uneasily.
"He's on his last ticket," said Harry, "One toe out of line, he's gone, and by the sounds of it, Zachariah's just about had enough of him too. Surprised they've lasted as long as they have."
"How long?"
"Three years, Ced," answered Harry, "Three years of that."
"Zachariah won't leave him. He's too forgiving, like you are."
"Forgiving? No. I learned the hard way many times over," answered Harry, darkly, "I truly learned that lesson when Ron and Hermione were killed."
"What happened?" questioned Matt.
"No. I don't want to talk about that. That's… something I don't want to ever experience again… and that's what I would do if I were to discuss it."

Stepping into the dining room for breakfast, Harry, Cedric, and Matt found Sirius at the table, breakfast already set out at the centre of it. Of course his godfather would want to spend more time with him, he realized. Much like it would be in the great hall at Hogwarts, there was cereal, fruit, and toast, boiled eggs, sausages and toast. Two pitchers of pumpkin juice were present, as was one pitcher each of apple and orange juice.
"Sirius," Harry grinned, taking a seat.
"Hey, kiddo. Sleep all right?"
"Better than the past few nights," answered Harry, loading up a plate. Sirius smirked, knowing full well the reason for Harry's answer. Just then, Zachariah and Jiro made their way in, and both sat at the far end of the table-clearly to be as far away from Matt as possible. Jiro had a nasty red mark on the side of his face that somewhat resembled a hand-print. He was scowling at everyone, and Harry had to be careful not to actually smirk. No doubt, Zachariah had put him in his place again, and judging by how fresh the mark was, quite recently.
"'morning, everyone," said Zachariah.
"Mr. and Mr. Kane," said Sirius, inclining his head.
"The twins stayed downstairs with us, I hope that was all right," said Jiro, "We were busy until two this morning."
"Nope, no problem with me," said Harry, "In fact I do need to add a couple of rooms, since they might like to have their privacy while they're here."
"You're pushing the limits of the trunk already, aren't you?" questioned Sirius.
"Almost. I can probably get two more good-sized rooms, but that's just about it. After that I really have to figure something out." He looked up to see Padge and Moose step into the room, followed a moment after by Jay; each of them took seats at the table, greeting the others, save for Jiro. He only got glares from the newcomers. They were all fully aware of what Jiro had done to Matt, and they were by no means impressed. Padge in particular was giving Jiro a death glare. It was a good thing looks couldn't kill, or Jiro would have been dead many times over.
"From the looks Mr. Kane is getting, I gather something unpleasant happened?" queried Sirius.
"You could say that," answered Harry, "Been dealt with."
"I was an asshole," said Jiro, "And I'm sorry."
"Yeah, judging by that nasty mark on your face, the only thing you're sorry about, is that your partner's all pissy about it," said Matt, coldly.
"HEY, I AM trying to be nice!" said Jiro, angrily.
"Matt… he's trying," said Harry, "Just both of you let it go, okay?"

The table fell silent, although the unspoken tension was almost palpable. For Harry, it was frustrating, seeing his new friends at each others' throats. Yet, he couldn't muster a lot of sympathy for Jiro-he'd attacked Matt twice, someone who obviously didn't easily bury a grudge. He was practically famous in the world they had left, right? So to be attacked such as he was, it just didn't normally happen.

The silence was suddenly broken, as Fred and George popped into the room with a noisy CRACK, making Padge knock over his glass of orange juice, spilling its contents. Harry only grinned, banishing the spilled juice, and magically refilling his now empty cup. "Hi guys."
"Sorry about that," said George, taking a seat.
"Forgot there were Muggles present," Fred added.
"So I hear you guys were busy last night."
"Very," said George, "Jiro's com-putter is wicked. The stuff he's been showing us."
"We're both astounded by the detail," Fred completed.
"Yes, useful… guys, is there anything there that might help me link two trunks together?"
"There might be," said Fred, "But you could just set up another fireplace, right?"
"Yes, but I'd rather not have to use the floo network if I can avoid it."
"We can have a look after breakfast," said Jiro.
"Why would you need more than one trunk?" questioned Padge.
"I'm almost at the limit as to how much I can magically expand this one," supplied Harry, "We'll need a second one if I want to add much more, which I do." Just then, a large barn owl swooped into the room, to land on the table in front of Sirius-Harry had configured the trunk in such away that owls could enter and deliver mail to those inside it. It had a newspaper secured to one of its legs, which it held out for Sirius. He took it, and placed three knuts in a small pouch secured to the other leg, then offered it a slice of bacon, which it took. The bird then took off, flying from whence it came.
"What the fuck just happened?" questioned Jay, looking VERY confused.
"Owl post," Harry explained, while Sirius opened the copy of the Daily Prophet.

DUMBLEDORE SUSPENDED FROM WIZENGAMOT, ICW
Aging wizard no longer in a sound state of mind, by Rita Skeeter

Both the Wizengamot and the International Confederation of Warlocks have temporarily relieved Albus Dumbledore from his position in both bodies, citing his fantastic believes in the continued existence of Lord Voldemort.

A spokes-witch from the Ministry of Magic has gone on record to say, "It is believed without a shadow of a doubt that the dark wizard known as Lord Voldemort has been vanquished once and for all, and we as a governing body cannot stand by and allow someone to state the contrary, no matter WHAT sort of status the individual has."

The ministry has gone on to say they are also investigating claims by the one who vanquished the dark wizard nearly fourteen years ago, which go along with the Hogwarts headmaster's claims. "We are equally disturbed by the fact [Dumbledore] has somehow coerced or bewitched young Mr. Potter to make similar, outlandish claims. The ministry will be taking equal steps in that regard, to ensure [the truth] is made very clear."

Indeed, this reporter must question both the motives of Dumbledore and Mr. Potter. Is it yet another foolish attempt by the boy to gain more attention in the public eye? Or is it an attempt by the elderly wizard to gain further control of the Ministry? This reporter will continue to keep you, the reader informed, as I feel we are only scratching the surface of this sordid tale.

"Right. They'll all sing a very DIFFERENT tune when Voldemort storms into the ministry one night," Harry scowled, after reading the article aloud.
"Ministry insider?"
"Umbridge, likely. Useless pink toad she is. She will be neutralized, I swear on everything holy," Harry vowed.
"As in Delores Umbridge?" inquired Jiro.
"That would be her."
"She runs the Muggle-born registration commission. She had thousands of Muggle-born witches and wizards arrested and thrown into Azkaban," said Jiro, "I only escaped by keeping my head down."
"Sounds darker than what Harry went through," Sirius noted.
"You-know-who is in charge where we come from," answered Jiro, "Even in Canada."
"What's a Muggle-born?" questioned Padge.
"I'm a Muggle-born," answered Jiro, "It means a witch or wizard born to Muggle parents. The ministry-once it was taken over by you-know-who-created the commission to persecute people like me, basically. They say we somehow stole our magic. It's a load of horse shit!"
"Sounds bent to me," Matt agreed, "I mean, I would think your magic is a part of you, not something you can just learn-or steal."
"Well, Mr. Tuck, there have been a good number of honest studies by the Department of Mysteries, but there's never been a good answer as to why it happens."
"Harry… I never got to ask. What year are you in now?" questioned Jiro.
"Starting fifth year," answered Harry.
"So it's right after you-know-who got his body back…"
"Except he didn't," said Harry, "I don't want to get into details just yet, because there are still people missing from this table."
"Ron and Hermione," Fred guessed. Harry nodded. "Once they're here, I promise, everyone will get a rather detailed explanation of the hows and whys of me knowing what I do. All I will say, I have detailed knowledge of the future."
"No time better than the present," said Cedric.
"Do you mind? I'd rather not be calling Grimmauld Place from here myself," said Harry. Cedric nodded, standing. He left the room. Harry finished the last piece of toast on his plate, and also stood. "Better add them to the floo."

Once he had added Ron and Hermione to the trunk access list, he then took a seat in front of the fireplace. He smirked inwardly to himself when Matt took a seat in one of the couches off to the side, and lit a smoke.

It was nearly ten minutes before the fire roared a brilliant green, and Cedric stepped out of it. "They're on their way. You've added them to the access list already?"
"Way ahead of you, Ced," answered Harry, as Cedric sat beside him. Only an instant later, the flames turned green again, and this time, a bushy-haired witch stepped out, along with a ginger-haired wizard. 'One of the twins' brothers,' Matt assumed.
"Harry! You're all right? You have no idea-" Hermione began, but Harry held up a hand, saying, "I'm just fine, Hermione. Guys. Before we take another step, I need a wizard's oath from the both of you that whatever I say here remains a secret."
"A wizard's oath?" questioned Hermione.
"Right," said Ron, taking out his wand. Holding it in front of him, he spoke, "I, Ronald Bilius Weasley, swear on my magic, that I shall not disclose anything about to be shared with me by Harry James Potter, so mote it be."
"So mote it be," spoke Harry, letting the golden thread of magic seal the oath. Hermione quickly duplicated Ron's oath, at which, Harry said, "Great. I know that was a lot to ask, but I really need to be sure what I'm about to tell you won't end up being repeated to certain people."
"Guess that makes sense. Harry, where did you get this?" Hermione gestured to the room around them.
"You like it? I visited a store that specializes in Wizarding travel gear. You probably don't remember Professor Moody's trunk… but it had lots of compartments-although this one only has three. We're in the third," Harry explained.
"And where is the trunk now?" questioned Ron.
"In my room at my relatives' place. So Dumbledore can't say I'm not where I should be. It's just not exactly as intended."
"And you have to be at your aunt's because of the blood protection, right?" questioned Matt.
"And you are?" Hermione apprised the stranger.
"I'm Matt. Matt Tuck."
"A pleasure. Hermione Granger."
"And Ron Weasley."
"Harry's told me a bit about you guys," said Matt, as they shook hands.
"Let's go into the dining room, the others are in there."
"Others?"
"Just c'mon," said Harry.

Introductions were quickly made once they were seated, although both Ron and Hermione got a shock from Jiro, who addressed Hermione, "Mrs. Granger-Weasley."
"Excuse me?"
"Well… um… you two were married, where I come from," Jiro supplied, with a shrug. That got a swat from Zachariah, and a glare from Harry.
"Right…" he said, "I mean, that sort of applies in what I'm about to tell you all, but I'll get to that. My story begins on June 24th. Some of you already know that story, but for those who don't know, truly terrible things happened… things that began eleven years of nightmares…"

By the time Harry was finished, it was nearly time for supper. Five empty vials that had once contained a calming draught sat on the table in front of him; he had needed that many to remain calm during the explanation, for the future he told of was truly a dark place. It had had a profound effect on his new friends equally as his old ones, Hermione needing to brush away tears on more than a few occasions. Jiro, too, was stunned. He thought he knew everything about the boy-who-lived, but only now realized, everything he knew was wrong. No, this was definitely no boy.
"You're really from the future," said Ron, finally. Harry nodded, and said, "Let me try something." He stood up, gestured with his hand at himself, and he began to change. Gone was the boy of nearly 15, and in his place, stood a man who looked to be going into his 30's. His green eyes and raven hair were still unmistakable, but the hair was shoulder-long and stringy, clumped together in some places, and the face had changed: The face of someone who had been through hell, was the best way to put it, as it was marked by a number of scars, not including his infamous lightning bolt scar linking him with Voldemort. Someone who had long ago lost his innocence in the fire of war. His body equally, bore a number of scars, but only a few of those were visible.
"This is my true appearance," spoke the boy become man, "I will turn 27 on the 31st, rather than 15."
"Bloody hell, Harry," spoke Ron, while Hermione only stared, open-mouthed. "If… if you had not explained to us… Merlin!" she finally managed.
"I know. I look of fright. Luckily, this body did not travel back with me. Unfortunately, my mind did. I'm not who you think I am. That Harry Potter died a long time ago."
"No, he didn't!" Hermione protested, "You can't think that way, or V-v-voldemort will have already won."
"No, he won't ever win. I defeated him once, I'll do it again. I swear on everything holy, he won't ever win, nor will he take away those who mean so much to me." He sat back down, blowing out a long breath.
"Mate, I don't care what you look like," said Cedric, "You're still handsome to me."
"Means a lot," said Harry.
"Me too, mate," said Ron, "You'll always be my best friend, no matter what."
"You know my answer Harry, although your appearance is quite startling," said Hermione.
"I know it is… but among you, this is who I am. I won't pretend any more."
"Can you hide your scars?" questioned Matt. Harry only nodded, gesturing again at his face. The scars vanished, save for his infamous lightning-bolt scar-the one he could do nothing about. "Why?"
"Just curious. I mean, the look suits you better, I think."
"He won't be able to use that at Hogwarts, though," said Fred.
"Unless he wants the entire school to know his secret," his twin added.
"No. When I go back to Hogwarts, I will look like I'm 'supposed' to."
"Gotta wonder what Malfoy would think if he saw you like that," Ron grinned.
"Well, he's likely to find out," Harry answered, getting a shocked look from his school friends. "I'm not kidding."
"But why, Harry?"
"I told you about his change of heart, right? What if I can influence that sooner? Get some help from the snakes, rather than them be a pain in the ass. I've already got Snape's support. Getting Draco as well, it would double the chances."
"That'll be a difficult sell," said Sirius, "What do you have to offer that Voldemort doesn't?"
"My memories. Just like I did with Snape, I'll show Malfoy exactly what's in store. Just the shock value alone should get his attention." Just then, Kreacher popped into the room. He gave a squeak of shock, seeing Harry's changed appearance.
"It's still me, Kreacher," said Harry.
"Master Harry has changed his appearance?"
"I was showing everyone what I really look like," Harry explained. The elf seemed to think on this for a few moments, then said, "All are staying for dinner, they are?"
"If they'd like," said Harry. Kreacher gave a low bow, and popped away. That got a sour look from Hermione. "Please don't argue with me about Kreacher. I'm glad for his help. I asked if he'd like to help out here rather than stay at Sirius' place."
"So that's why Dobby and Winky are at Sirius' place, then," Ron guessed.
"Yeah. I asked if they'd like to help there, since I know it's busier. Kreacher wouldn't deal with it well-he didn't the last time around, kept calling Hermione a Mudblood."
"Well, kiddo, you've truly turned him around, I have to admit," said Sirius. Just then, plates and cutlery appeared on the table, and the food itself appeared at the centre, much like had happened at breakfast.

"Okay. As cool as your trunk is, Harry, could we maybe go outside for a bit?" questioned Matt, as the dishes and leftovers vanished from the table. "We've been stuck in here for almost three days now."
"Right. Anyone else care to come for a walk? There's a little park not far from here."
"Matt, you sure that's a good idea?" questioned Padge, cautiously.
"Why not? No one knows who we are here. Can't hurt anything," Matt pointed out.
"Other than Death Eaters that might be looking for you. Harry, do be careful," said Hermione.
"I plan to. We won't be long. Cedric, coming?"

A quick glance at the map gave Harry another reason to smile: his relatives were away for the evening-they likely didn't even know he was back in the house.
"Right. Let's go, then," said Harry, and made a hasty exit from the trunk, Cedric and Matt quickly following.

oOo

At precisely that moment, miles to the north, at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, one of the many shiny trinkets that adorned the headmaster's office let out a long, agonizing cry, and began to spew black smoke. Had the headmaster been there to witness this, he would have been very alarmed, and made an urgent trip to Privet Drive. As fate would have it, Albus Dumbledore was currently meeting with the Order at Grimmauld Place, and so had no inkling the protective wards surrounding Number 4 Privet Drive had just collapsed.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: So... why might the wards have collapsed around Privet Drive, hmmm? Heads up, action coming next chapter! Weeeeee!

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: X - UNITED AND SEVERED
NEXT CHAPTER: XII - AN UNPLEASANT HOUSE CALL
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter X - United and Severed

2009-11-12T16:49:00Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: X - United and Severed
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~5,457
Warning(s): Violence, coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

X: UNITED AND SEVERED
OR, A WAR ALMOST ERUPTS IN THE TRUNK

Harry was relieved to see the map redraw itself absent of his nemesis. Unfortunately, that was not quite the end of the problems, as he noted three other figures on the map: his 'loving' family. 'Better then than Voldemort,' he thought, bitterly.
"It's done, then. We're… in your world," said Matt, his voice barely above a whisper. Harry only nodded. "I know… you guys wanted more time, but-"
"We had no choice," said Jiro, "You-know-who would have killed us… probably without realizing it."
"Voldemort would have known-"
"Harry-"
"Here, we can say it and I make damned sure of it. My second best friend puts it best, Fear of a name only increases fear of the thing itself."
"Pretty smart," Matt agreed.
"Yep, smartest witch in our year."
"Well… at least he won't be having any more nightmares," said Jiro with a shrug.

Matt practically flew off the bed, tackling the guy and knocking him to the floor. By the time it truly registered with Harry what was happening, Matt was pummelling the guy.
"STUPEFY!" Matt fell limp from the strong stunning hex. Jiro seized the opportunity, and smashed him in the face, then threw him roughly aside.
"Jiro…" But he wasn't having any of it. It was twice now (even though Jiro had caused both episodes)-he was going to have his revenge.
"What the-" Padge had come in, having heard the noise from only seconds earlier. He saw red, seeing Jiro attacking one of his best friends.
"Impedimenta!" Harry snapped, thrusting a hand at Padge, then thrust a hand at the door, slamming it closed. Another snap of the hand, and Jiro found himself bound from the neck down in heavy cords, shoved roughly backward by several feet. "I fucking warned you, moron." He turned to Padge, saying, "Twitch an inch the wrong way and you'll be bound up tight as he is." He cancelled the hex.
"What did you do to him?" Padge questioned, scrambling over, and kneeling beside Matt.
"He only reacted," said Harry, kneeling beside him. "Bloody moron, I warned Jiro what would happen." Luckily the damage wasn't too bad-a busted nose and a split lip. "Kreacher."
"Yes master Harry," said the elf, as he appeared.
"Another pain-relieving draught from my stores, please."
"Right away, master Harry." The elf pattered across the room to the storage cabinet, opened it, and selected one of the many vials. Closing it up, he returned to where they were gathered.
"Thank you, Kreacher." The elf bowed, and popped away. Harry then cancelled the stunning hex. Matt hissed as the pain immediately registered, his eyes narrowing to almost slits, icy cold fire blazing behind them.
"I'm gonna fix your nose. Brace yourself, it's gonna hurt," Harry warned.
"Jub do ib," Matt managed, wincing with the pain that came with a broken nose, blood splattering as he spoke the few words. Harry pointed an index finger at his nose. "Episkey." There was a sickening squelch as bone and cartilage were magically mended, causing Matt to let out an anguished cry(1), and coughed up a mouthful of blood.
"S-sorry."
"No… it's fine."
"Hold still… I'll fix your mouth. Your teeth okay?"
"Yeah." Harry again pressed an index finger against the split lip. "Episkey." Again, it hurt, but not nearly as much as the nose, as the skin knit itself back together again.
"Evansco," spoke Harry, gesturing again at his face in general, banishing the blood. "Here. It'll minimize the pain." He passed Matt the pain-relieving potion.
"Thanks."
"Anywhere else hurt?"
"No… he just got me in the face," answered Matt. His eyes still blazed with cold hatred. No doubt, Jiro had just made himself an enemy or four. Matt would waste no time sharing this latest altercation with his friends and band mates.
"Here." Harry offered a hand, and Matt took it, to be helped back to his feet.
"What about HIM?"
"That's our next bit of business. Really didn't need this dragon shit right now." Harry gestured at Jiro, releasing part of the binding.
"This is how it's gonna be, Mr. Kane. You have a choice. Either, I have you written up on charges of assaulting a Muggle-I'm sure you know the penalties, right? Or, you will pay Mr. Tuck for damages. I should think five thousand Galleons should be a nice round number."
"But…"
"Those are your choices."
"Or we take a pound of flesh out of 'ya," said Padge, coldly. Right, there was a fourth party here. Jiro glared at the others.
"Mate, I warned you once already, and this is MY home before anyone else's. I was hoping to have your help, but… Merlin's balls can't you think before you open your mouth?"
"I'll pay your supposed fine," Jiro ground out.
"Good."
"And Jiro. Let's get one thing straight. I hate your fucking guts." Matt's voice was low and cold. He was BEYOND angry.
"Ditto," Padge agreed. He, too was furious. In his books, an attack against one of them was an attack against ALL of them.
"Trust me, the feeling's mutual."
"NO. you don't have that right, moron," Harry crackled, "YOU made that bed, not Matt. So let's lay down a few boundaries. You will be finishing the apartment yourself, after which, you will not be up here except to use the floo. If this shit happens again, I will throw you and your shit out of here faster than you can say Quidditch, and I WILL file a report with the Auror's office regarding that incident AND this one. Is that crystal clear?"
"…"
"It's not a rhetorical question, Kane."
"Crystal clear," Jiro ground out.
"Great." Harry removed the body bind. "And one more thing." Harry again thrust a hand at the guy, muttering an incantation. "You are not to be within twenty feet of Matthew Tuck from this point forward, unless invited by him, so mote it be." A dark red thread of magic arced between Matt and Jiro.
"What do I do?" questioned Matt.
"Say, 'so mote it be'."
"So mote it be!" said Matt, icily. The thread of magic buried itself into his chest, then did the same to Jiro, at once making him feel VERY uncomfortable, as he was inside the twenty foot circle. He fled the room.
"Thanks," said Matt.
"I know you tried not to let him get to you, but… I can see that would never work. Merlin's pants I can't believe that happened. You're truly okay?"
"In which way, mental or physical?"
"Right."
"They can't stay here," said Padge, "The others will be pissed when they find out."
"You guys need to just lay off them for now, okay. Promise me that. Let me handle this, it's my home."
"I won't keep secrets from the others," said Matt, "We share everything."
"Just make sure they don't cause further trouble. This has been dealt with, right?"
"This time. If it happens again, I mean it, we'll beat him within an inch of his life," Padge vowed.
"No, next time he'll just be bounced out of here on his arse, sod his fancy gadgetry." Harry lay back down on the bed and blew out a long breath. "Y'know, I've met a good number of Canadians, both Muggle and magical alike. They tend to be good people. Jiro's really thrown me for a loop here."
"Second that," said Padge.
"Third there," added Matt, as he took the seat beside the bed.
"Y'know, if you guys are gonna make it a habit of gathering in my room, I guess I'm gonna have to add some furniture."
"Hey, you told me to," Matt pointed out. A hint of a smile tried to form on his lips as he said it, however.
"Guess I did." He gestured at the floor, conjuring up another comfortable arm chair. "Padge…"
"Thanks, mate." He took the offered seat. "So… how do you just… well… make shit out of thin air?"
"You just said it. What's air?" Harry questioned, glad for the distraction. One could practically taste the tension in the room.
"Hydrogen and oxygen."
"So it's not nothing, then, is it?" Harry explained, "It all comes back to transfiguration, changing one thing into another." He slid his wand out of his pants pocket, and gestured at one of the many pillows that now adorned the bed, muttering an incantation. It suddenly changed into a fluffy white kitten, who cuddled up to the teen, mewing happily. He smirked at the goldfish imitation he was getting from Matt and Padge. "One of the most advanced types of transfiguration possible." He gestured again with his wand, restoring the pillow to its original form.
"Can you do that to people?" questioned Matt. That got a laugh from Harry. "Yeah, as one of my classmates found out last year. Professor McGonagall wasn't too impressed about it, but we all got a good laugh out of it. He was turned into a ferret for a minute or so."
"Harry… you've shown us a ton of your world. It's only fair we show you ours," said Padge, "That's if we could somehow get our equipment to work here."
"It'll mean bugging Jiro-" that got a dark look from both Padge and Matt, "-but I'll work something out."
"Would be good to actually jam a bit as well. That's our fun too."
"Well, I'd like to hear you guys. The last band I saw was last year at school."
"Magical band I would guess," Matt assumed. Harry nodded.
"So what would be different?" questioned Padge.
"Well, they sing about magical things and stuff happening in the magical world, that's all," answered Harry.

Their discussion continued until lunch time, after which, Harry finally ventured outside the trunk again. Curiosity getting the better of him, Matt followed.
"You slept here?"
"Once I got my Hogwarts letter, yeah. The room's actually supposed to be much smaller than this, but I applied a few charms much like I did in the trunk," Harry explained. It was then Matt spotted Hedwig, resting on the large perch in the corner beside the window. "Is that yours?"
"Yeah. This is Hedwig. Hi, girl." He stroked the bird's feathers, and she started, puffing out her feathers. She glared at the boy, as if to say, 'Where have you been?!'
"This is Matt, a new, good friend of mine." The bird blinked once at the newcomer.
"She's awesome."
"My first magical friend bought her for me just before I started school." He thought for a moment. "Don't come out here without me. My uncle might not like that."
"Yeah, I sure wouldn't like it either if the tables were reversed."
"Let's get back inside. I have a floo call to make."
"A what?"
"You'll see."

Moments later, Harry was kneeling in front of the crackling grate, with Matt standing just behind. He took a pinch of floo powder from the container hanging at the side, tossed it into the fire, then called out, "Fire call the Diggory Residence!" and stuck his head into the green flames.

Looking up from the grate, he spotted Mrs. Diggory puttering around the kitchen. She stopped, seeing Harry's face in the fire. "Mr. Potter! Oh dear, Cedric's been in a right state! Are you back?"
"Yeah, I'm back. Could you get Cedric to come see me? Have him floo home first."
"All right, I'll pass on the message."
"Thank you!" Harry pulled his head back out of the fire.
"Okay, that had to be the most bizarre thing I've ever seen," Matt declared, shaking his head. Harry let out a chuckle, and said, "You haven't seen anything yet."

Sure enough, about a half minute later, the flames in the grate roared to life, and someone stepped out of them, dusting the ashes off his clothes. He was good looking with a chiselled face, and soft, grey eyes that took in everyone in the room. He had short, brown hair, and stood easily a head above Harry.
"Cedric!" Harry grinned, swamping the taller boy in a tight hug.
"Just a heads up, Sirius is on his way as well, you might want to add him to the trunk access list."
"Right!" he thrust his hand at the fireplace. "Addendum, Sirius Black." The fireplace flashed green for a moment, and it was a good thing he had. An instant later, the flames roared green yet again, and out stepped a man taller yet again. He had an aristocratic appearance about him, although it appeared to be somewhat tarnished, his skin slightly waxen. He had startlingly blue eyes that contrasted Harry's green ones, and a large mop of shoulder-length curly brown hair. Harry broke away from Cedric, and was again enveloped in a tight hug. "Harry! Thank Merlin you're all right. We were all going half spare," said the man. Harry grinned and they separated, at which Harry said, "Cedric, Sirius, this is Matt. Matt, this is my boyfriend, Cedric, and my godfather, Sirius."
"Pleasure," said Matt, shaking their hands. "I'll get the others, they'll probably want to meet you as well."
"What others?" questioned Cedric, as Matt headed to the bedrooms.
"He's a member of a Muggle rock band. I accidentally crashed into their motor coach when I… err… landed," Harry explained, "There's a bunch of stuff I have to explain, let's go into the study."
"Since when do you have… oh, right," said Sirius. Harry smirked as he led them down the same corridor Matt had just disappeared into, down the far end, and into said study.
"You've done all this yourself?" Cedric was impressed.
"I still need to configure the fireplace, and the bookshelves are a little bare, but."
"An amazing job, Harry," Cedric praised. Just then, Matt stepped into the room, followed by his friends and band mates. Jiro and Zachariah followed moments after. Zachariah was clearly not happy.
"Matt… I'll need you to 'invite' Jiro into your twenty foot range for now," said Harry, taking a seat at one of the tables. He nodded, taking the seat beside Harry. Cedric occupied the seat on the other side, while others filled in around. Harry thought for a moment, then called, "Kreacher?"
"Yes, master Harry?" the elf croaked out, appearing with a slight pop. Sirius was astounded at the change that had taken place in his house elf. He now wore a spotless tea towel, his ears were neatly clipped, the hair in each a snowy-white. It was as if the elf had de-aged by years.
"Could you bring us some refreshments… perhaps some butter beer this time."
"Right away, master Harry!" Kreacher vanished with a light POP.
"You've had the Midas touch with him, I'd say, Harry," said Sirius.
"He's been kept quite busy here, with seven of us around, but he likes it." Kreacher was back with another pop, and he placed a large platter of bottles at the centre of the table. He also produced a tea service.
"Thank you, Kreacher." The elf bowed, and popped away again.
"He's behaving himself?" questioned Sirius.
"I've told him there are certain things he can't say, that's it. I'm kind to him, and he reciprocates that," Harry explained, grabbing a bottle of butter beer from the plate at the centre of the table. "Either way. What date are we here?"
"July 24th," answered Cedric, "Why didn't you keep writing, keep us updated?"
"Because to me, I'd only just written to you. I don't know how that's possible, but it's like this universe isn't running at the same speed as the one where these guys came from."
"Very odd," Sirius agreed, "So tell us what happened. What did you do for the three or so days you were gone?"

Harry took his time, and gave a fairly detailed account of his first venture into another universe. Matt and his band-mates, and Jiro and his partner helped fill in the details where necessary.

At the mention of Harry's duel with Voldemort, Cedric was shocked and mortified. Without even knowing it, he could have lost Harry. In fact, Harry had to get Kreacher to fetch yet another calming draught from his stores, his boyfriend was shaking so badly.
"He used the Taboo curse during the last war as well," said Sirius, as Harry at last finished, "A good number of Order members were captured that way."
"Except that he only controlled Britain and part of Europe last time," Harry pointed out, "Where these guys come from, he controlled a good part of the world, right?"
"Yeah, pretty much," said Jiro. The guy had not said too much, and this was not lost on Sirius. He filed it away for later, but said, "As I said in my letter, Dumbledore's been working hard to get me a trial."
"Well, they do have Crouch's testimony, right? He should be forced to testify."
"But Harry, you know how that works already. Just getting a fair trial is a hit-and-miss thing with idiot Fudge in power," Sirius reminded, "It will really hinge my solicitor."
"Why don't you petition for political asylum in a foreign country?" questioned Zachariah, "It would probably get the wheels turning a little quicker than sitting on your ass waiting for the antiquated British system to get in gear."
"Never really thought of that."
"See what I mean, Harry?" said Jiro, "There's a ton of things Sirius can do here, if he'd get a second opinion and not be blinded to the whims of one Albus Dumbledore."
"Jiro has an issue with Dumbledore," Harry supplied, at Sirius and Cedric's questioning looks.
"Problem with him?" Jiro snorted, "The man's a manipulative goat-fucker, that's what he is." That got a round of laughter from Matt and his band mates, while Harry looked mortified.
"We could probably get the Canadian ministry to hear his case," said Zachariah, drawing the conversation back on topic, "This is a gross miscarriage of justice, our legal system will want to rip the British ministry a new one." That got a snicker from Harry. "Why, it's true… or was, before you-know-who took over."
"Then that's where you guys can help us," said Cedric, "Use the floo-I imagine you would know who to contact over there."
"Yeah, pretty much," said Jiro, "I've got a pretty thick file on the computer."
"Computer?" questioned both Sirius and Cedric.
"The desks out in the common room-you guys probably didn't notice them, but, it's a Muggle electronic device that's incredibly useful," explained Zachariah.
"There's no way that sort of thing should work in here," Cedric pointed out, to which Harry grinned, answering, "That's what I thought, too. It seems Fred and George were pretty busy in their world. On that note, gonna have to speak to them."
"There's an extensive file on my computer, everything they'd want to know," said Zachariah, "And Harry, Jiro and I want to talk to you after this about the, um, arrangement you made earlier."
"If you're asking me to forget about the fine-"
"No. A substitution, but this isn't the place for that, no sense in airing dirty laundry," said Zachariah. He flinched, and felt back to his left ear, adjusting one of his piercings.
"Fair enough," said Harry. That got a curious look from his godfather.
"Harry. You do need to let Ron and Hermione in. They're your best friends, right?" Cedric questioned. Harry nodded, although reluctantly. It was bad enough inviting the twins. It was going to result in questions he wasn't quite ready to answer-he'd already said too much to Matt, after all.
"Something else you will have to consider, Harry," spoke Sirius, "Your new friends here may already exist here. You might want to check on that so you avoid major problems in the future." Harry only nodded. "Makes sense. Never mind the fact they're from twelve years into the future as WELL as being from a different dimension."
"It still floors me this happened, though," said Cedric, "Merlin, Harry, you have no idea how bent out of shape people have been. Ron's mum's been nothing but a mass of nerves, even Snape has been-well, do I dare say it-concerned?" That got a smirk out of Harry. "Yep, I knew he actually cared."
"It's not funny, Harry. Dumbledore's recalled well…"
"The Order? Doesn't surprise me. He did the same thing the first time around as it was."
"Dumbledore plans on moving you to my place 'as soon as he is located', his words," said Sirius.
"No offence, Sirius, but I'd rather stay here. Your house has far too many unpleasant memories for me. Beside the point, I haven't been here long enough to charge the blood protection."
"Blood protection?" questioned Matt.
"I'm not going into detail," answered Harry, "But my mum's sacrifice when Voldemort attacked gave me some powerful protections against him… as long as I live with my aunt… as long as I stay at her house for a month or so, Voldemort can never physically attack me here." He looked down the table at Jiro, who looked about ready to burst out laughing. "What?"
"Dude, that has to be the biggest load of horse shit I've ever heard!"
"Jiro… you have no clue what you're talking about, mate. My aunt doesn't really love me, but she doesn't HATE me either."
"Have the wards ever been tested? Has he ever tried to visit you at your relatives?" Jiro challenged.
"Well… no."
"There's my point, you can't know that. I thought you knew Bill."
"I do, but-"
"Ask him about your 'blood protection'. He knows a thing or two about wards as well as curse-breaking."
"I know. Considering I almost married him." That got strange looks from the members of Bullet for my Valentine, and a smirk from Cedric. After all, he was well aware of the 'future' Harry was from.
"Right. But ask him, see what he has to say about it. I guarantee, you won't like the answer."
"So how do you know so many people from our world, Mr. Kane," questioned Sirius.
"There were only a few of us who were truly fighting to undermine the Dark Lord's regime. We were constantly sharing information, meeting, and acting. So it was only a natural thing I should run into the Weasleys. Great people. You know Victor Krum as well, right?" Both Harry and Cedric nodded. "He worked all over Europe, trying to draw people together to fight. Sheeple. All I have to say." Harry burst out laughing at that comment. He finally collected himself, saying, "Glad we agree on something, Jiro."
"That is?"
"The 'sheeple' of Wizarding Britain. They'd rather listen to what the supposedly unflappable, great, ministry of magic has to say, rather than actually taking initiative and thinking for themselves."
"Exactly why our world ended up with the Dark Lord in control."
"And if things don't change here, we'll be facing the exact same thing. And Jiro. There's no taboo curse here. You can say his name."
"It's hard to break an old habit," answered Jiro, with a shrug.
"What is the taboo curse anyway?" questioned Jay.
"It acts like a tracking charm," answered Jiro, "Quite clever, really. Just saying the name cancels any protective enchantments, and causes a strong magical disturbance(2)."
"What about a Fidelius charm?" questioned Harry.
"Not certain, that's a powerful charm, Harry," answered Jiro.
"I know, I've cast it before."
"A fid-ius charm?" questioned Matt.
"Fih-day-lee-us," said Harry, "It completely hides an object or a place from those who don't know the secret of it. One person knows the secret, and can pass it on to others. Like Jiro said, it's a very powerful charm-many counter spells and so on have little effect against it."
"Harry… are you gonna contact the twins?" questioned Jiro.
"Yes, right. Guess that's the next thing. Cedric, do you mind calling them?"
"Now?"
"yeah, now's as good a time as any," Harry decided. Cedric nodded and stood.
"In the meantime, I'm gonna hook up the fireplace in here. Give me a minute." He also stood up, and left the room.
"So has Harry put you guys under a secrecy charm yet?" inquired Sirius. Matt and his friends shook their heads. "That will need to be taken care of, if you're to continue to interact with the Muggle world."
"Yeah, I understand that," said Matt.
"Guess I should be getting our notes and so on together, if the twins are coming," said Jiro, "Zack…"
"Right." The two of them left the room as well.

It seemed a split second later, Harry popped into the room, bringing a small notebook. "I did it last time without this." He knelt in front of the fireplace, and began to draw a series of strange symbols in various places. "Sirius, who's been staying or visiting your place while I've been gone?"
"Just about every member of the Order at one point or other. All the Weasleys are there, save for Charlie and Percy. Merlin, even Snape's been there far more often than I can stand."
"And just now?"
"A busy house, if that's what you mean. Dumbledore wasn't there, but a good number of others were," answered Sirius.
"In other words, best I don't actually fire-call there myself. Made the right decision getting Cedric to do it… there, that should just about do it." The flames roared green for a second. Harry then pointed an index finger at the fireplace. "Addendum, Fred and George Weasley." The fireplace flashed green for a moment.
"Harry," said Cedric, returning to the room, "They want to come, but-"
"Yeah, I forgot. Tell them to come through now," said Harry, "In fact, tell them to use the address: Harry Potter's trunk, library."
"All right." With that, his boyfriend was gone again.

Seconds later, the fire roared a brilliant green, and out stepped two identical, ginger-haired twins. One actually had a bit of soot on his nose, and it was debatable whether it was from the use of the floo network, or something else.
"Fred, George, glad you guys could come," said Harry, indicating vacant seats at the table. "Thanks for christening my second floo connection, by the way."
"It's an honour," said Fred, accepting a seat, while George finished, "Always glad to help our esteemed business partner!", occupying a seat next to his twin. At the same time, Cedric walked back into the room, and retook his seat beside Harry.

"Harry, what happened?" questioned Fred, once introductions were made, "Mum's going half spare!"
"So Cedric and Sirius have told me," said Harry, "Let me share a few memories with you. Look directly into my eyes, and don't break contact until I tell you to."
"Okay." Fred looked into Harry's eyes, and was instantly flooded with a series of memories pertaining to the past few days.

Several minutes later, they at last broke eye contact. Fred only shook his head, saying, "You certainly have a knack for finding trouble, eh, Harry?"
"More like trouble finds me," answered Harry.
"May I share this with George?"
"Yeah, of course," answered Harry. George turned to his twin, and it was obvious Fred was doing the same thing to George as Harry had done to him. 'So they DO know the mind arts,' Harry realized.
"How come you didn't do that with me?" questioned Cedric.
"It's not quite as personal, I guess. I wanted to tell you in my own words, not just give you a stream of memories. The thing is, passing a stream of memories is much quicker."
"Dumbledore will want to know you're okay," said Sirius.
"And you can tell him the bare minimum. I'd rather he didn't know about my trunk."
"Yes, he was curious as to what you meant by your trunk following you."
"He doesn't have to know what KIND of trunk, just that it managed to follow me somehow, at which I'm still completely baffled as to why it did, you can quote me on that."
"Why don't you want this Dumbledore to know about here?" questioned Matt.
"Because I'm not quite ready to tell him certain things just yet. See, Jiro is partly right, in that Dumbledore is rather manipulative. I know the why, and yes, it does irritate me to no end, but at the same time, I know how to deal with his manipulations. He needs me far more than I need him at this point.

That said, I also don't want to be at odds with him. There'll be a time when I will share absolutely everything with him. I will need his help, and he is truly a powerful and influential wizard. That's the kind of power I will need behind me for the sort of changes I want to make in the wizard world. Our fight is NOT over once Voldemort is gone, it will only have just begun."
"Why do you say that, Harry?" questioned George. They had obviously finished their memory-sharing.
"If I want the world to be a better place for Hermione and Dean and their children, or any other Muggle-born, for that matter, things have to change. I really don't want to see another Dark Wizard like Voldemort come along a generation from now. If that happens, then everything we're doing now will be for nothing."
"Yes, a point well made," said Jiro, stepping into the room. He brought one of his 'power boxes' with him, while Zachariah brought with him a notebook computer. He placed the computer in front of George, while Jiro set the box behind it, closer to the centre of the table.
"What are these things?" questioned Fred, eyeing the equipment curiously.
"This-" Jiro pointed to the box, "-was one of your creations, at least where we came from. You guys worked on it for a couple of years. Your dad was quite proud of you."
"Fred, look! It's one of those Muggle pluggy things like dad has in his shed!" George pointed excitedly at the eight standard electrical receptacles attached to the side of the box. Zachariah was already connecting the computer to one of them. Jiro turned the box around, and pointed to the label affixed to the back.
"Fred, either someone's copied our trademark-"
"Or Harry's new friends tell us the truth," finished Fred.
"Once this thing boots up I'll show you some of your notes," said Jiro.
"Okay, as interesting as this is… we're going back to my room," said Padge, gesturing to the others. Matt declined, however, getting a shrug from his band mates.
"All right with us."
"And I do need to floo home. I'll pass on the message to Dumbledore that you're back at your relatives' place. I assume that's where your trunk is?"
"Yes," answered Harry, standing. He gave his godfather a hug, and the man quickly used the floo to return to Grimmauld Place. The three members of Bullet for my Valentine who had not seen the floo in use yet stood rooted to the floor, jaws hanging open in utter shock.
"What the fuck?!" Padge swore.
"The floo network," answered Harry, with a grin. Padge only muttered something unintelligible under his breath, and the trio left the room.
"I said it before, they haven't seen nothing yet," Harry grinned, returning to his seat at the table. Already, the twins were in rapid conversation with Jiro and Zachariah about the notes contained on the computer. Clearly they were indeed most interested in the information. Hopefully the twins would keep them occupied and less apt to antagonize Matt-at least as far as Jiro went. 'Still can't believe what happened earlier,' Harry thought to himself, as he felt an arm slide around his shoulder. "Missed you," Cedric hissed into his ear, and Harry had to smile. 'Perfect distraction'.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Have I mentioned before, Jiro's an ass? Okay. So yeah, he's got issues with his social filter… doesn't always think before he opens his trap, like yours truly at times. That's gonna get him in trouble, and it certainly played out here. Matt's about ready to murder him, and so is Padge at this point… the other band members wouldn't be far behind for that matter.

On the note of the Taboo-jinx vs a Fidelius charm… would the jinx actually bring down a Fidelius charm? Love to hear thoughts on that one.

(1) Drawing from HBP movie-verse here. JKR described the healing charm as being 'very hot, then very cold'. I think the movie-verse application is more realistic. C'mon, it's a broken nose! It's gonna HURT being magically reset.
(2) Taken from p.316, "Deathly Hallows", Canadian soft-cover edition.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: IX - THE DARK PURSUIT
NEXT CHAPTER: XI - HARRY SPINS A TALE
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter IX - The Dark Pursuit

2009-11-11T09:05:10Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: IX: The Dark Pursuit
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~4,095
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

IX: THE DARK PURSUIT
OR, MATT EXPERIENCES MORE HORRORS FROM VOLDEMORT

Harry awoke to a dimly-lit room, the waxing light of day starting to make its presence felt through the fake window. Once again he had slept very poorly, and a soft grunt from beside him let Harry know that for the second night in a row, he was not alone. 'Note to self,' thought Harry, as his eyes adjusted to the light, 'Silencing charms on the door from here on out.' Matt had again slept in Harry's bed. So what had it been this time? Right, the 'grave yard' scene, with an ugly substitution. Had Matt seen it? He'd already shared two of Harry's nasty nightmares, so it wouldn't surprise him. He slowly sat up, and gesturing with his hand, lit the lamps.
"You were screaming again this morning," said Lily, from her portrait. Harry only nodded, gesturing to Matt's sleeping form. "I know. I'll use silencing charms on the door from now on."
"But if you do that, Prongslet, you'll be sleeping alone," James smirked from his side of the portrait.
"Dad!" Harry tossed one of his socks at the portrait. Suddenly there was a loud pounding on the door. "Harry!!!"
"What? Come in," Harry answered. The door flew open and Jiro rushed in bringing the map. "I… the map… just here." He dropped the map on Harry's lap. Matt had been startled awake by the loud noise, and was trying to gain his bearings.
"Death Eaters," Harry breathed, seeing the labels on the map-it had been charmed to flag Death Eaters by the dark mark, and display one beside their name. There were eight of them, and they were closing in on their location, quickly.
"Here," said Harry, tossing a pillow at Jiro, "Make us a port key. I don't care where." Jiro only nodded, touching the pillow with his wand. "Portus. I'm able to move the trunk, right?"
"You should."
"Great. Be right back, then." He disapparated with a soft POP. Harry turned his attention back to the map, and was just in time to watch the map go completely haywire for several moments. Harry had to suppress a snicker as the map seemed to be completely disoriented for a few seconds.
"What's wrong with it?" questioned Matt.
"Port key. The map's trying to draw the surroundings, but we're moving so fast it can't keep up with it-there…" said Harry, as the map was finally able to sort out the surroundings. It looked like they were still in the city, but no place Harry was familiar with.
"This thing's like a GPS unit."
"A what?"
"A GPS unit… oh right, you've never heard of them," said Matt, "I guess it's the non-magical version of your map. Nowhere near as advanced as this is-" he gestured at the map, "-but pretty useful anyway."
"Oh. My best friend's father would find that fascinating, I think." Just then, Jiro stepped into the room. "They're probably tracking us. If they hit our house, no doubt they'll be looking into other places we frequent. Good thing I don't have anyone important."
"Well good for you, Einstein!" Matt hissed, narrowing his eyes, "Holy fuck!"
"Guys."
"Sorry, I… I didn't mean it that way."
"Mate, you really need to think before you open your mouth," said Harry, shaking his head, "These guys all have family… and there's just no way we could ever protect everyone." The teen's frustration was not lost on Matt nor Jiro.
"So where are we now?" questioned Matt, casting another dark look at Jiro.
"We're now in the baggage car of a train destined for Vancouver," answered Jiro, "Or, at least, the train leaves in about fifteen minutes."
"Did you guys get your letters finished?" questioned Harry.
"Yeah," answered Matt, nodding.
"We better get those in the mail too."
"I'll bug the others for theirs." Matt got up and left the room.
"He slept with you again?" questioned Jiro.
"Well… not with, so much, but… I don't want to get into it, okay?"
"Hey, I'm not gonna pry. He likes you, whether he wants to admit it or not."
"Doubt he likes me THAT way. Never mind the fact I already have a boyfriend. He'd likely castrate me if I even harboured THOUGHTS about… well…"
"Right," Jiro smiled, "Exactly what Zack would do. Anyway… you still don't know what kind of music they play, do you?"
"No, not really."
"I think Zack's actually got a few of their tracks on his computer."
"Not exactly one of my priorities right now though," answered Harry, gesturing at the messy bed with his hand, causing it to make itself. "Today, I'll help you guys set up a flat for yourselves. That's if you have something for me to work from. And I could use your help."
"Sure."

The next order of business, however, was to get the letters into the mail. Harry gestured at each one with his hand, muttering an incantation, dropping them onto the drawing table.
"What are you doing to them?" questioned Jay, suspiciously. He had come out to the common room looking for Matt.
"Applying secrecy charms and Confundus charms," answered Harry, "The Confundus charm will make the post office deliver it without questioning why there's no stamp on it… all right, that's it. Jiro. If you'll do the honours."
"Yep." He snatched up the letters, and disapparated with a light POP.
"Still fucking weird, seeing him do that," said Jay, shaking his head.
"It'll get weirder than that," said Harry, with a grin, "As far as the magic world, you've not seen anything yet."

Once Jiro returned to the trunk, Harry got to work setting up their flat. He decided to put their unit under the main floor, and so an entrance hall was built, where the ladder was placed, along with a staircase leading down. From there, it would open into a large combined common room and kitchen, with an island counter. Two rooms went off of it, one being a study with a wide opening, while the other was a bedroom. Finally, a bathroom was set off the common room beside the entry hall.

By supper time, Harry had only managed to complete the common room, even with Jiro's help. Matt had once again decided to watch, along with Padge, this time. He hadn't shown his face all that much the past couple of days, choosing to spend most of his time in his room. Come to think of it, the others were making themselves scarce as well, and it did make sense. They were losing everything, everyone they knew, and were powerless to do anything about it. Death Eaters showing up at Jiro's house drove home the point: it was dangerous for them in this world. Voldemort would hunt high and low, and being Muggles, they wouldn't stand a chance.

Once supper was over, Harry turned his attention to the roughed in room that would become the study. It ran behind the kitchen, and was accessed by the corridor that led to the bedrooms. Harry's room in fact was directly across from it.

While he worked, his mind fell back on the failed Doppelganger charm. The stuff he was doing here and now could be just as complicated, and yet, he could practically do it blindfolded! It was one of the great mysteries of magic. How some things could come to him instantly, while others he had to fight tooth and nail to achieve.

He laid out the study very much like a small section of the library at Hogwarts. Two large work tables took up the centre, with a number of shelves toward the back of the room. They would eventually be filled with books and journals-after all, there were a ton of books in the family vault at Gringotts.

At the front of the room, there was another fireplace which he would hook up to the floo once they got back into his own world. It was sunk into a sort of pit, with three couches arranged in front of it, with a coffee table between them.

The room itself was two storeys high, and had large, floor to ceiling windows at the back of it-fake of course, but still let in volumes of light. The room was lit with antique gas lamps, much like the rest of the flat, although the 'gas' was an endless supply, conjured as needed. It was one of those charms so complicated, yet one he could do in his sleep.

His activities were interrupted as Fawkes flamed in and landed on one of the chairs at the work tables.
"Hello Fawkes. Oh, you brought mail, did you? Cedric misses me, does he?" Harry grinned, relieving Fawkes of his letters. He quickly conjured up a perch, and the bird happily took to it, looking at Harry expectantly.

The first was another letter from Sirius.

Harry,
What's going on, pup? It's been two weeks since we've heard from you and everyone's starting to get a little bent. We finally convinced Dumbledore to let us borrow Fawkes, since he seems to know where you are.

Speaking of Dumbledore, he's been working diligently to get me a hearing in front of the Wizengamot, so just perhaps, I may actually get my name cleared, and be a proper godfather to you.

I do hope you are still okay, let us know how you're doing.

Love,
Sirius.

Well, that was a little strange! He'd only spoke with them the other day, hadn't he? To miss TWO WEEKS that way? That was just ridiculous. On to the next letter, then. As expected, this one was from Cedric.

Harry,

Tell me you are okay. I know Sirius probably already said something along the same line, but we're all worried! I'm beyond worried. I almost demanded Fawkes bring me to you, but… I don't know what's happening there. Dumbledore didn't think it would be safe, and I guess I have to agree.

However, you can't just forget about us, Harry. I'm your love, your BOYFRIEND! (Harry could see the writing was very jagged and uneven, very uncharacteristic for Cedric)

Write back to us, and put everyone at ease, okay?
Love, your very WORRIED mate,
Cedric

Harry turned to Fawkes. "If it happens again, bring them here, okay?" The bird seemed to blink and nod. "In the meantime, I'll send back a note so they know I'm all right."
"Harry-Holy shit!" said Jiro, spotting the bird.
"This is Fawkes," Harry introduced.
"Dumbledore's phoenix," said Jiro, "I've never seen him before."
"He's been helping me on occasion as of late… and he did save my life in second year. Dumbledore thinks I share a strong bond with him."
"Harry… oh, hey Fawkes," said Matt, stepping into the room. The bird again shifted on his perch, and called out a happy musical note in greeting.
"Hey, how come 'I' didn't get that greeting?" questioned Jiro.
"Maybe he knows you're a prick," answered Matt, sarcastically, plopping into a seat at the work tables. Jiro glared at the guy, and choosing not to retort, said, "Just wanted to say thanks for… for your help this afternoon with our flat."
"We'll finish it tomorrow."
"So if Fawkes is here… has he deserted Dumbledore?"
"NO! Why would you think that?" questioned Harry, rather shocked. The phoenix ruffled his feathers, looking at Jiro strangely, as if to say, 'Why would I do a thing like that?'
"Well, if he's spending time around someone other than the one he's bonded with… that can't be a good sign," Jiro pointed out.
"And that would be the stupidest answer I've ever heard," Harry retorted, "Merlin, that's just well… wow. I know things are different in your world… but in mine, Dumbledore is a great man. He definitely has an agenda, I know that, but… at the same time, his intentions are only for the best. I see him as a strong ally, someone needed just as much as I am."
"Yeah, after he sacrifices everyone around you for the 'greater good'… You know he was in cohorts with Grindelwald, don't you?"
"Who's Grindelwald?" questioned Matt, pulling out a smoke. Harry once again conjured up an ashtray and slid it across the table.
"The dark wizard BEFORE you-know-who," answered Jiro, "He and Dumbledore were best friends-although it was rumoured Dumbledore wanted it to be more than that."
"Jesus Christ, is EVERYONE in the magic world gay or something?" questioned Matt, who then took a long drag off his smoke. Harry burst out laughing, and Jiro couldn't hide the smirk from his face. Harry knew he was tying to think of a smart comment. "Right. Well, no. I mean, we have to create new witches and wizards right?" That got another smirk from Jiro.
"Don't tell me guys can get pregnant." Harry again burst out laughing, and this time Jiro joined him.
"Oh my God, that's completely bonkers," Jiro finally managed, "Dude, we might be magical, but well… we're not THAT magical." He took a few more moments to collect himself, then said, "So where was I… right… Grindelwald and Dumbledore. You know Dumbledore gave Grindelwald some of the ideas about conquering Muggles, right?"
"Yeah, Rita Skeeter's WONDERFUL biography laid it out clear as mud," Harry retorted, "You're not telling me anything new."
"He's dangerous, Harry. think about it… his own slogan, 'For the Greater Good' ended up over the gates at Nurmengard."
"Where was that?" Matt asked.
"Another Wizarding prison. Grindelwald is being kept there now-at least in my world," Harry explained, "Still. Dumbledore is an old man. He made a few stupid mistakes in his life… much as I already have. Show me one person in this world that's perfect. I'd PAY you to do that." Just then, Zachariah walked in, seeming to be looking for someone. "Wondered where you got to," he said, sliding up to Jiro, "Come to bed, it's late."
"Tempus," said Harry, gesturing with an index finger. '11:30 p' wafted from the tip. "Shit, so it is. I've still got letters to write."
"We'll leave you to it, then," said Jiro. Without another word, he grabbed Zachariah, and they popped away.
"What did you need?" Harry gestured at Matt.
"Wondered what you were doing."
"Oh. Just finishing the study here. Even if I'm here in your world, I still have stuff to do."
"Makes sense."

Harry kept both letters relatively short, and secured both to one of Fawkes' legs. "All right. Take those to Sirius and Cedric. And remember what I said." The bird only nodded, then opened his wings and vanished in a burst of golden flames.
"Your dream last night… is that how Cedric died?"
"Yeah. But it wasn't Cedric this time, you and I both know that," said Harry, standing, "It's a revolving door of everyone I ever cared about, all put in that scene at one point. Fate's way of torturing me, I guess."
"You woke up screaming and I checked on you."
"Thanks… again. I'm sorry you have to live my nightmares. Don't worry about it, I'll be all right. I'll make sure you won't be disturbed by my outbursts in the middle of the night from now on."
"How can you do that?"
"Silencing charms."
"Ain't gonna stop ME from experiencing them, though," Matt huffed. Understandably, the dreams were disturbing him just as much.
"I'll get you a dreamless sleep potion… better not to use them unless you absolutely have to though, they're highly addictive."

Stopping at his door, he made several gestures at it. 'No more waking up the rest of the flat', he thought bitterly to himself. It was one of those things he truly wished he could get rid of… but it was impossible. Occlumency only helped one to manage and protect one's thoughts… not get rid of them. Self-obliviation was dangerous at best-Lockhart was a VERY good example of that.

"The pain will end if you just tell me what I need to know, Miss Spencer," spoke a cold, high, voice. The object of his attention lay on the floor, writhing, her screams virtually drowning out the voice. It abruptly ended, and the woman lay there, heaving for several seconds. "You just have to answer my question. Where is Matthew Tuck?"
"I… I don't know! Why, what-"
"Crucio." The woman screamed yet again, as she fell under the unforgivable. "I have little patience for filthy Muggles. Yet, there is one I currently desire above all others. I will find him. Believe me when I say, I will find him." He held the curse for several minutes, and finally ended it. This time the woman stared up with a blank expression on her face, unresponsive.
"Most unfortunate. Avada Kedavra." The scene was filled with a bright green flash.

Harry's eyes snapped open to the light of early morning, feeling his scar aching. He had witnessed Voldemort torturing people before, so it was nothing new. This was slightly different though. What time was it-SMASH! Something slammed into the other side of the wall-Matt's room, Harry realized. He didn't bother to dress, and wasted little time going out into the corridor and knocking on Matt's door.
"Hey… what was that?" Harry turned to find Padge standing in the doorway to his room, looking concerned, trying to rub the sleep out of his eyes.
"I'll take care of it," answered Harry, knocking again, "You won't understand."
"He was my friend long before he met you," Padge snapped.
"Matt? It's Harry. Are you all right?" No answer.
"Let me." Padge knocked. "Matt… what's going on?" Still no response. Harry didn't bother calling again, but simply threw open the door.

Matt was sitting on his bed, his face in his hands. He was shaking all over, sweat glistening on his tanned skin. Most certainly, he had just witnessed the same nightmare. He looked up at the intruders, his face a mask of anger and hurt. Harry could see beyond the mask, however, and behind it lay a shattered spirit. Whoever it was, she was important to him. Sister? Girlfriend? Most likely his girlfriend.

Harry said nothing, but took a seat beside him. Padge on the other hand, persisted, asking, "What happened?"
"Don't want to talk about it," was Matt's shaky, but curt answer. Padge only nodded, but said, "I'm here if you need to talk, so are the other guys." He gave a questioning look at Harry.
"Kreacher," Harry called. It took several moments, but the old elf popped into the room. It looked like he had been woken up. "Master Harry call for Kreacher?" he croaked.
"Sorry to wake you, but I need a claming draught from my stores."
"Kreacher is fetching one right away," and the elf vanished with a pop.
"I know how it feels," said Harry, daring to put an arm around the older man's shoulder. Matt flinched, but did not protest. "He's taken every single person I've ever cared about from me. I know I will lose people this time, too. It's just the way he is."
"But… why?" His voice was still uneven.
"He's evil… just the way he-"
"Why am I seeing this shit? Why do I keep seeing your fucked up dreams, Harry? I can't HANDLE that!"
"I don't know the entire answer to that… but you have some of my blood now. We share a bond, something like what I share with you-know-who." Just then, Kreacher appeared, bringing a calming draught. Matt consumed it without hesitation. It was either that, or he was going to explode again. "Thank you." The elf only bowed low, and popped away. Harry banished the empty vial, then said, "You'll be sleeping in my room from now on." That got a strange look from Padge, and a scowl from Matt. "I don't need a babysitter."
"Err… and neither did 'I' when you slept in my bed two nights in a row. It's either that or I stun you every night."
"So he had a nightmare?" questioned Padge.
"Guys… everything all right?" questioned Jiro, joining Padge at the door.
"Christie… he murdered Christie," said Matt, quietly. He had stopped shaking, the potion having the desired effect. Harry gestured with his index finger, muttering under his breath. 'Cheering charm should help', he thought. Jiro left, seeing everything was well in hand. He knew there was no point in sticking around.
"What did you do?"
"Cheering charm," answered Harry, "Feel a bit better?" Matt nodded.
"If you need anything… come knock," said Padge, "I'm going back to bed." By the sound of his voice, he wasn't happy about the situation. Of course, then again, none of them were. Harry could easily pick up the irritation in the forefront of the guy's mind, he didn't have to dig far.

Matt, on the other hand, was a scramble of nerves and emotions, even after the calming draught AND a cheering charm. Of course, he had just lost someone very close to him. By the looks of it things weren't all that hot between them at present, but Harry knew that meant nothing really. To have an intimate relationship with someone changes things forever, after all. To lose that person is a massive blow, no matter how close or distant they are at the time.(1)
"C'mon, let's go back to my room," Harry decided, "You can come make fun of me trying to learn that charm."
"Sure." It wasn't enthusiastic, but it was an answer nonetheless. "Let me get dressed."
"Right. If I don't see you in five minutes-" Matt had already stood, and was sliding into a pair of long shorts. "After you…"

Harry had just made himself comfortable on the bed, the journal again open on his lap. Matt had said nothing but had occupied the opposite side of the four-poster, and had pulled out his notebook-Harry couldn't see how one would want to write in such a terrible mood. Suddenly, there was a loud THUD, and the entire place shook.
"Accio map," said Harry, holding out a hand-it had been placed back out on the drawing table. Moments later said object fluttered into Harry's hand. "Merlin's balls!" he swore. Nearly twenty Death Eaters were swarming around the trunk, including one Tom M. Riddle.

There was no chance to copy what he had done last time. Since he hadn't seen outside the trunk when Jiro had moved it, he couldn't apparate out there.
"Harry?! What's going on?" Jiro appeared in the doorway, appearing confused.
"Fawkes," Harry spoke, praying to everything holy the bird would hear. If not, they were as good as dead. Another loud BANG rang through the trunk, and it again shook, this time a little stronger. Matt had looked over, and he already knew what was going on. "We're dead," he said, gesturing weakly at the map. Another loud BANG. Suddenly, with a flash of golden flames, Dumbledore's familiar appeared, and lit over to Harry, looking at him as if to say, 'What can I do?'
"Fawkes. Can you collect the trunk?" Harry gestured at the map. "Take us home."

Voldemort was quite pleased with himself, and to a much lesser extent, his loyal followers. They had done very well tracking down the boy-who-lived-from-another-dimension and that filthy Muggle that dared attack him. They had located the train as it left Banff heading westbound, and stormed aboard, searching it from end to end. They had brought six Dementors along, and they were allowed to feast on the unsuspecting passengers on the train.

They at last stormed into the second baggage car, and the Dark Lord wasted no time, blasting through the hundreds of pieces of luggage, uncovering the magical trunk he had encountered a few days before. However, before he and his Death Eaters could get too many hits on it, a brilliant red phoenix burst into being with a blaze of golden flames, snagged the trunk, and vanished the same way he appeared. Somehow, the Dark Lord knew at once his hunt was over. Wherever the phoenix was going with the trunk, it was somewhere far beyond his reach.

AUTHOR'S NOTES:

(1) My grandmother and grandfather died less than twenty-four hours apart, even though they had been divorced for a number of years. On top of that, when they passed away, my grandfather lived in Thunder Bay, Ontario, while my grandmother lived in New Brunswick, something like 1,800 miles apart. I rest my case.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: VIII - NIGHTMARES OF A FUTURE PAST
NEXT CHAPTER: X - UNITED AND SEVERED
TABLE OF CONTENTS

I HATE Ficwad...

2009-11-10T19:55:41Z

I'm always looking for other places to share my stories. When I was working on "The Canadian Intervention", I found Ficwad, another fanfiction site. It looked promising, allowing for RPF's and so on.

Unfortunately, I didn't realize how closed-minded people were over there. Wow. When I started posting "Temporal Boundary Invasions" there, the rude comments I got! People over there seem to completely ignore the disclaimer and intro, but instead hop right into the story, then bitch and complain that there's slash in my story! No SHIT, Einstein! It was there in the disclaimer, and had you actually READ it, you would have known that small detail before WASTING YOUR TIME on something you weren't into!!!

GOD, are people that f__king brain dead and anal-retentive? At any rate, I've washed my hands of Ficwad, they're a bunch of retards.

There, okay, my rant is over... I think... *sighs*

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter VIII - Nightmares of a Future Past

2009-11-10T09:25:36Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: VIII: Nightmares of a Future Past
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~6,522
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

VIII: NIGTMARES OF A FUTURE PAST
OR, HOW HARRY'S FUTURE MEMORIES CONTINUE TO HAUNT HIM

Harry was more than pleased, when Fawkes reappeared in front of him, and deposited the journal on the table.
"You don't know how much I appreciate your help, my friend," said Harry, gratefully. "I don't like deceiving Dumbledore, but sometimes he needs to just step back and let me solve things on my own. But I do look up to him like a grandfather, you know." The bird let out a happy trill, as if to say, 'I know that!' He regarded Harry for a second, then vanished again in a burst of golden flames.
"So… he just grabbed that from your own… well… world?" questioned Matt. Harry nodded.
"How much can he carry?"
"Yes, he could take us back to my world, and that's most likely what we'll do," answered Harry. 'Matt was VERY perceptive,' he thought.
"So what's that for?"
"It's a journal put together by a very powerful witch a couple of centuries ago," Harry explained, taking a seat at the drawing table. "There's stuff in here I sort of know how to do already, but needed the journal to refresh my memory." He leafed through the book, then closed it. "It'll be a bit of late-night reading."

They were again interrupted, as Kreacher popped into the room, bringing with him several large crates. "Kreacher is bringing master Tucky's things."
"Put everything in my room for now," said Matt. The elf popped away.
"There's probably things you'll want right away, right?"
"Yeah, probably."

Harry ended up spending the rest of the afternoon helping Matt sort through the things Kreacher had collected from his flat. Harry ended up having to expand his room, the process of which totally floored the guy. After all, it wasn't every day one saw a room expand before their very eyes.

Even with the amount of stuff that was pulled out and placed, most of his things remained in the boxes, which were neatly stacked at one corner out of the way, covered up with a large blanket Harry had conjured, "So you don't have to stare at a bunch of ugly boxes," Harry had said.
"Why can't you just shrink those down?"
"The stuff inside already has a shrinking charm on them, probably not a good idea."
"Oh." Harry, meanwhile, was looking at the two guitars that now rested on their stands in front of the boxes. There were a few other devices collected around them; Harry assumed they worked with the guitars, given the number of cables as well. "Don't try and… um… your stuff won't work here in the trunk."
"Not without a few adjustments." Matt and Harry turned to see Jiro standing in the doorway.
"Like your computer," Harry guessed. Jiro nodded. "The shit that went down yesterday… it stressed me out, okay?"
"Like I wasn't?" Matt pointed out, narrowing his eyes.
"Point taken. It was crazy for all of us. Zack and I had a 'discussion' last night after well…" He offered a hand. "Start over?" Matt looked at the gesture, shrugged, and accepted.
"Great," said Harry, "I really need everyone here working together if you're gonna stay."
"So Zack pointed out, not as nicely either."
"I'm just about done helping Matt, so I can start on your apartment. Do you have an idea how you want it laid out?"
"You want me to draw something?"
"Yeah, it would be helpful," said Harry. Just then, Zachariah raced into the room. "GUYS! You need to see this."

They followed Zachariah back out to the common room, where he took a seat at the computer he had been using. He began to read: "Up and coming Welsh metal band missing after fiery explosion…

"A massive explosion and fire at a truck stop just west of Trenton two days ago has claimed the lives of eleven people, and injured thirty-seven, according to Quinte West fire and rescue services. Six people are still missing, including all four members of 'Bullet for my Valentine', an Welsh heavy metal band who were on the bill at this year's Warped Tour. The body of their driver, thirty-six year old Adam Forsythe, was identified early yesterday amongst the wreckage of the band's tour bus…"
"So people will think we're dead," said Matt.
"It's a perfect solution, actually," thought Harry aloud. That got a dark look from Matt. "No, think about it. As far as the public goes, you guys are gone, you're not coming back. You let those people who really count know the truth."
"Of course the letters will all have secrecy charms so they can't tell anyone," Jiro added.
"I guess." Matt was still VERY uncomfortable with the notion.
"We'll have to send them all through Muggle post though… I doubt your close friends would like it very much getting a visit from a post owl," said Jiro, with a smirk.
"A post-owl?" Matt arched an eyebrow.
"Yeah, that's how we send mail in the wizard world. I'll introduce you to Hedwig when we get back. By the way… do you know what happened to her?"
"Don't know, sorry," answered Jiro, with a shrug, "She did help the twins out for a while, but after they were killed… Not really sure."
"Did you know your driver well?"
"Not really. He was a nice guy and all, but we didn't spend a lot of time together, if that's what you mean," answered Matt, although he seemed to be in a bit of a fog. The events of the past few days were taking a toll. Harry knew all about that feeling, being slammed with one calamity after another. "If you need an ear to listen… that goes for any of you… I'll do my best," he offered in support.
"I appreciate that."

Once supper was over with, Harry again retreated to his room, this time to review the journal he had borrowed from Dumbledore's library. Even though he was off in a different world, he still had an agenda to push on with. The journal would help him exactly as it had the first time around, building and configuring a Room of Requirement. It was some of the most complicated spell work he had ever performed, and had taken the better part of a day the first time around, breaking only for meals.

Of course, there were other things in the journal that were useful as well, including a "Doppelganger charm". He'd attempted it, but had never been able to get it to work correctly. It would be very useful if he could master it.

Next thing he knew, it was eleven o'clock. He set the journal down, changed into his pyjamas with a gesture from his hand, and climbed into bed. Tomorrow was going to be as crazy a day as today was, after all. He just knew it!

"…hide yourself below, Harry…" The scene was that of an open room with a high ceiling, the moonlight casting an eerie light across the floor. A large instrument of sorts took up most of the space in the room. The speaker looked to be ancient, with a long, flowing beard, eyes blinking behind half-moon spectacles. "Don't speak or be seen by anybody without my permission… Whatever happens, it's imperative you stay below. Harry? Do as I say…" the scene whirled around as Harry obeyed the man's instructions, descending a set of stairs that led under the room, this one filled with clutter. Through the loose wooden floor, however, he could still see up through, where the old man now stood alone, at least momentarily.
"Good evening, Draco," said the old man. Harry looked up, and could see the new speaker on the other side of the room, his wand trained on the old man. "What brings you here on this fine spring evening?"
"Who else is here? I heard you talking," demanded Draco, harshly.
"I often talk aloud to myself. I find it extraordinarily useful," answered the old man, appearing to be un-wavered by the threat. "Have you always been to yourself, Draco?"
"…"
"Draco," the old man breathed, "You are no assassin."
"How do you know what I am?! I've done things that would shock you," answered the boy named Draco.
"Oh, like cursing Katie Bell and hoping that in return she would bear a cursed necklace to me? Like replacing a bottle of mead with one laced with poison. Forgive me, Draco, I cannot help feel these actions are so weak that your…" the old man paused for a moment, then continued, "Heart can't really have been in it."
"He TRUSTS me! I've been chosen," declared Draco, doing something Harry could not see.
"I shall make it easy for you," said the old man, raising his arms in a gesture of surrender, wand still gripped in his right hand.
"Expelliarmus!" cried Draco, and the old man's wand clattered against a far wall.
"Very good, very good," spoke the old man, just as a door opened somewhere out of sight. Harry looked around.
"You are not alone? There are others. How?"
"The vanishing cabinet in the Room of Requirement," answered Draco, hastily, "I've been mending it."
"Let me guess. It has a sister, a twin."
"In Borgin and Burkes. They form a passage."
"Ingenious." The old man paused and then spoke, "Draco, years ago, I knew a boy who made all the wrong choices. Please let me help you."
"I don't want your help! Don't you understand!? I have to do this!" said Draco, half frightened, almost pleading. Shadows were ascending a spiral staircase to the right of Harry's vision now. "I have to kill you, or he's gonna kill me!"
"Well, look what we have here," said a woman's voice, in mock-pleasantry. Harry could see the woman the voice belonged to in all her crazy glory; she looked like someone who escaped from the locked ward at a mental institution. "Well done, Draco."
"Good evening, Belletrix," said the old man, as if he were welcoming guests for afternoon tea. Draco, meanwhile, looked terrified. "I think introductions are in order, don't you?"
"Love to, Albus, but I'm afraid we're on a bit of a tight schedule," the woman named Belletrix answered curtly, barely a whisper that cracked like a whip, then to Draco, "Do it!"
"He doesn't have the stomach. Just like his father," spoke a new speaker. Harry could not see the person. "Let me finish him in my own way."
"NO!" Belletrix hissed, "The Dark Lord was clear the boy has to do it! This is your moment, Draco, Do it!" Harry turned to see another dark shape, his wand pointed at him, a finger to his lips. This man had long hair that curtained his face, and a hooked nose. He too disappeared up the stairs. "Go on Draco, Now!"
"No," spoke a new voice-the man Harry had just seen with him below.
"Severus," spoke the old man, "…please."
"Avada kedavra." The scene filled with a brilliant green light, blasting the old man over the ledge and out of sight.(1)

Matt woke with a start, his heart pounding, and an agonized cry coming from somewhere: Harry's room, next door. Steadying his nerves, he eased out of bed, slid on his jeans, then made his way into the corridor.

Before he could get any further, two more doors opened. Both Jay and Padge had heard the scream as well, and looked at Matt quizzically.
"I got it, get back to sleep," he answered. His band mates only nodded, and vanished back into their rooms. He made off for Harry's room.

The boy was balled up in the middle of the bed, a mass of nerves, deep sobs echoing on the walls of the room. Had he just seen the same dream? Matt was at a loss as to what to do at this point. 'His potions… what cabinet were they in again?' he glanced around the room, and spotted the large wardrobe in the corner. Checking it, he was disappointed to find it locked. "Kreacher?"

It took several seconds before the elf in question appeared. 'Very late or very early,' Matt realized.
"Tucky call for Kreacher?" That got a glare from Matt. "Where does Harry keep his potions?" he indicated the emotionally shattered boy balled up on the bed. The elf let out a gasp, pattering over to a second cupboard. With a wave of his hand, there was a click, and the doors opened. The elf pulled out a potion, and handed it to Matt.
"Master Harry is needing calming draught," croaked the elf.
"Thank you, Kreacher." The elf gave a low bow, then left the room, while Matt sat on the edge of the bed, then gently shook Harry. "Harry?" The teen would not budge. "Harry. Look at me." The boy finally broke out of his ball, to look at Matt. "Here." Harry reached up a shaky hand, and accepted the potion, quickly consuming it in spite of the horrid taste.
"Thank you."
"I heard you shouting. You gonna be okay?"
"I think," answered Harry, but as Matt began to stand, Harry grabbed onto his belt, and pulled him back down. "Stay with me… please." His green eyes held more fear than anything. This, from the same boy who had fought fearlessly against the dark wizard the day before-it was just wrong. Sighing to himself, he obliged.

In another time and another place he would have been mortified and offended for another male to even SUGGEST such a thing. Yet, here and now, this kid who had more than saved his life, needed saving of his own at the moment. Harry had already shifted over to the opposite side of the bed, and turned to face away from him, making it clear he respected personal boundaries, even with his request.

He lay on his back and blew out a breath, his mind wandering back to the dream he'd just had himself. The act he had witnessed the dark-robed wizard commit… it just seemed exponentially heinous. The old man-obviously a wizard-gave off an aura of power… why had he allowed the boy to disarm him? It was as if… as if he were allowing himself to be killed… to be sacrificed. But, WHY?

Something was tickling Harry's nose. Dust? No, hair, his subconscious eye answered. Soft denim rubbed against the back of his legs as well, as he lay on his side. Who… skin? His mind was still hazy. Cedric? Where am I again? He opened his eyes, and was assaulted by the insanely bright light blazing in through the false window, although partially filtered by few wisps of long, black hair that lay across his face.

The body next to him shifted, pulling the hair away from his face. It actually tickled, to tell the truth. And his smell… he smelled slightly of cologne and tobacco smoke. Then, it all clicked: one of the few particularly disturbing memories that still haunted his dreams. The night he lost Dumbledore. What had brought on this particular memory, though? It had been several weeks since he had dreamt of that one. It made even less sense, considering the subject of said dream was very much alive at this point (although likely not very happy with Harry at the moment).

The body next to him was Matt, who had more than looked after him that morning-he must've gotten Kreacher to help with the potion, what with unknowing Muggles in the flat, it wouldn't do for them to get into something. Some items in his stores were fatal if used incorrectly. He had to smile, turning over to face the man. He was laying face-down now, sprawled out over his side of the bed. 'Restless sleeper,' Harry thought, observing him.

Of course, by Matt's hesitation at the request, Harry knew not to ever push things. As much as he might WISH for every attractive boy on the planet to 'play that end of the field', it wasn't reality. 'Besides,' he thought, he had someone waiting back in his own world who, absolutely DID play that way… A smirk covered his lips, as he thought about his boyfriend, and his cock very quickly arose to the occasion. 'Shit, most inappropriate,' thought Harry again, trying quickly to douse the fire that threatened to run away with him. 'If Matt saw that… bloody hell.' The tent in his pyjamas slowly deflated, and Harry sighed with relief.
"My, my, Prongslet, you move quickly," James smirked from his portrait.
"Dad! Shhhh! I was half 'round the twist this morning… he helped me," answered Harry, "Besides… even if he did, err… well, play that end of the field… I couldn't." He flicked his hand at the journal that had fallen on the floor, and summoned it. "I dreamed about Dumbledore's death again."
"Does that happen often, dear?" questioned Lily.
"Not as much now, but… before I came back, it was a regular one. That one, or Cedric's death… or Sirius' death… or Ron and Hermione… or-"
"We get your point," said Lily, sadly. Her son had suffered horrors many times over. It was a miracle he hadn't checked himself into St. Mungo's.
"What are you up to today?" questioned James, trying to steer the conversation into safer territory.
"I have a fair bit of reading to do." Harry gestured to the journal on his lap. "I 'borrowed' it from Dumbledore's library-I'll put it back once I'm done," said Harry, seeing his mother purse her lips. "Better to do it and ask forgiveness than it is to get permission(2)."

Harry settled back in the bed, conjuring a few extra pillows to prop himself up, then dove into the journal in front of him. It was more a refresher in most things, yet, the notes on the 'magic room', as the book called it, were the real reason for him borrowing it. More parchment was summoned once he had located the section. "Geminio," he spoke at the starting page, making a copy of it. It was known that the duplication spell usually didn't work all that well. Once again, however, Harry was by no means an ordinary wizard at this point, and a spell required more than just wand motion and pronunciation. It also required will and intent, both of which Harry focused very well. So, the page before him was a very close facsimile of the original.

A snort, and a sigh from beside him drew his attention to the other body that occupied the bed. Matt opened his eyes, blinking up at Harry-he was still on his stomach, face partially pressed into the pillow. He arched an eyebrow, then lifted his head off the pillow.
"Thanks… for looking out for me this morning," said Harry, "I know… I know I probably made you uncomfortable, but… if I was home… I would've had Cedric and-"
"It's all right," said Matt, holding up a hand, "Just… don't expect much from me."
"I doubt that… but mate, I know what boundaries mean, and I'm sorry I pushed on yours. It won't happen again," said Harry, solemnly.
"Although, prongslet, you could demand just about anything from him and he'd have to do it," James quipped up.
"Dad!" said Harry, glaring at his father, but the damage was done. Matt looked at Harry nervously. "Is that true?"
"Do you know what a life debt is?"
"No."
"When a wizard saves the life of another person, especially another witch or wizard, that person is owed a life debt. It means, as my prat of a father so elegantly put it, the witch or wizard owed the debt can ask just about anything of the person. I mean, as it stands, I owe Snape several life debts. I don't think he realizes that or not-and I'd do whatever he asks because of exactly that. Owing a life debt to someone is humbling, the best way to look at it… because that person thought the other's life was worth saving. Does that make sense?"
"I think so. Does that mean… I owe you?" Harry nodded his head slowly, but said, "It's not something I would ever collect on, unless it was… That sort of thing comes from old pureblood traditions, some of which I think should die a horrible death somewhere along the line. And I mean, to put it better… the only thing I ask of you in repayment, is your friendship, Matt."

Matt seemed to think on this for a few moments, taking in what he had just learned. All in all, he wasn't sure WHAT to think of that. Yet, clearly, Harry was not out to take advantage of him. There was nothing more to it. He would just have to trust the kid. He finally nodded, but asked, "So what would happen if things were reversed?"
"I would owe you, then. But normally, Muggles are unaware of such things," Harry explained. "I just hope we're never put in that kind of position. Not just because I don't want another life debt hanging over my head, but… the implications, you understand?" Matt nodded. "It's a grave thing, and it is so for both parties."
"Harry. Is this Dumbledore an old wizard?"
"Yes, going on a hundred and fifty or so," answered Harry.
"A dark clothed wizard killed him. At least that's what I dreamt just before I heard you screaming."
"Bloody hell. It woke you up too?"
"Yeah. What happened? Why was he killed?"

Harry only gave a nod, setting the journal aside, then made himself more comfortable, facing his new friend. It would require a lengthy explanation, after all. "The old wizard was-or should I say, 'is', the headmaster of my school. He also leads the fight against you-know-who. During what should have been my sixth year, Draco Malfoy-you saw him disarm Dumbledore-fixed a cabinet in a secret room in the school, letting Death Eaters in. The man who actually killed him is a teacher."
"A teacher?"
"Yeah. At the time… I didn't know exactly what was going on behind the scenes. You see, the teacher, Snape, never has got along with me. I always suspected he was playing both sides, only pretending to be helping Dumbledore, but truly only working for you-know-who. His killing of Dumbledore all but confirmed that in my mind, until I found out otherwise, much later. He in fact had killed Dumbledore on his orders, to keep his cover as a loyal Death Eater. I think that hurt almost as much… Dumbledore likes to keep things from me, see."
"Apparently."
"As for Snape, you'll meet him eventually. He's got access rights to the trunk, after all. One of the few people I trust implicitly. He knows about this particular memory, I think it even made HIM pause. Whether or not it'll prevent things from playing out that way later on… that remains to be seen, I guess. Anyway… not long after that, you-know-who took over the ministry of magic, and Snape became headmaster at Hogwarts."
"So Dumbledore sacrificed himself?"
"Yeah, he did," answered Harry, "It made it possible for Snape… like I said, to become Headmaster. He did the best he could to protect the students against the Death Eaters in the school, but what would have been my seventh year was… most unpleasant-I didn't attend, because well… I was on a mission for Dumbledore. My best friends and I, actually. And we had almost finished… there was one item I could never find," said Harry, seeming to be whispering mostly to himself, "Could never get close to Nagini, the Dark Lord's familiar. If only we could have… the war wouldn't have lasted so many years… there wouldn't have been so many deaths. Once he realized we were hunting Horcruxes, he kept Nagini close to his side… and that's when Snape sent me some pensieve memories-I'll show you what a pensieve is sometime… but I was able to view a bunch of his memories, it explained a lot as to why he is… well, why he acts the way he does, and more importantly, the part he played. It was both eye-opening, a relief, and devastating all at the same time."
"He told you about the Horcrux inside you," Matt assumed. Harry nodded. "Yeah, exactly. Or, more like, Dumbledore told him about it, and Snape included that memory in the batch he sent me."
"How did you get rid of it?"
"Well, Dumbledore said the Dark Lord himself had to do it, but I didn't believe it. I ended up using basilisk venom on the scar, and with Kreacher's help, he healed me using phoenix tears-phoenix tears can heal just about any injury. I had to 'die' to get rid of it-"
"Don't ever ask me to do that for you."
"No. That's something I will have to ask Kreacher to do again, probably in the near future. I need to ask Fawkes to donate a few of his tears."
"Did it hurt?"
"Well, if you can imagine a white-hot poker being shoved between your eyes-or where my scar is, more accurately, that's an apt description," answered Harry.
"So… all this shit's happened before?" questioned Matt. Of course the guy had caught on. Member of a Muggle rock band or not, he was VERY intelligent.
"Yeah, it has. Don't repeat any of this to the others. Let me explain it myself, okay?" Matt nodded, while Harry gestured at the bedroom door. Best not to be interrupted. "As you know, I'm from about twelve years into the past, never mind coming from a different world. But more than that, in my own world, I'm actually eleven years older than I am."
"How did that happen?"
"I swear the universe hates me," answered Harry, "All I wanted to do was die. Pass on, be with my parents and my friends. But the cosmos thought it would be a big prank to send me back in time eleven years. So now instead of celebrating my twenty-seventh birthday in a few weeks, I'll be fifteen."
"Sweetheart, this is a second chance for you. Don't you realize that?" Lily pointed out. But Harry only glared back, snarling, "I didn't ASK for it! I didn't WANT it! All I wanted, was peace of mind, and I won't find that here. It's like the universe said my best wasn't good enough, understand? Like those who died-died in vain!"
"But Harry, all those people… they're still alive now. You have a chance to prevent their deaths," James pointed out.
"So do any of your friends where you come from know?" questioned Matt, sitting up, and feeling in his back pocket for his cigarettes. "Shit." They were crushed.
"Here." Matt passed over the package, and Harry gestured with his hand. "Reparo."
"Right. Keep forgetting you can do that. Um, you don't mind?"
"No. I doubt a bit of cigarette smoke's ever gonna kill me. I have too many enemies for that," answered Harry, while Matt lit a smoke. He conjured up an ash tray, and continued, "Anyway, yeah, a few of those who are really close to me know. I told my boyfriend and my godfather. And Professor Snape-I wanted to gain his support sooner rather than later."
"Even though he-well… after…"
"But Matt… that hasn't happened yet this time. And telling him about it, I KNOW he won't ever agree to do something like that this time."
"If he had it to do over, Mr. Tuck, quite likely I would have married him," said Lily. That got a dark look from James and Harry, equally. Just then, there was a knock at the door. Harry gestured at it with his hand. "Come in." The door opened, and Jiro stood there, with Zachariah. "Um… well…"
"What do you need?" questioned Harry, while both Jiro and Zachariah looked at Harry and Matt curiously.
"We need to go to Baldwin Alley. I have to empty and close my Gringotts account," said Jiro.
"You guys be careful," said Harry.
"Don't worry, we will," Jiro smirked, tapping himself on the head with his wand. He began to change, starting with his hair, then his face, working down the body to finish with his feet. Instead of a black-haired guy with slightly Asian features, there stood a guy of about forty, with an unkempt beard, light hair, and beady black eyes. His body was slightly pudgy, and his clothes were equally as messy and unkempt.

Matt stared in shock at the transformation. "Holy shit!" That made Jiro smirk again. "It's a glamour," Harry supplied, "Right useful."
"What about him?" Matt gestured to Zachariah. Jiro only pointed his wand at him, and the same thing happened. Only this time, his mate looked like a much younger version of himself, dressed to look like a punk-not that that had changed a whole lot-Zachariah nailed down the punk look pretty well WITHOUT a glamour.
"My alter ego, Ben Hicks," said Jiro, "And my son, Donnie."
"Right. Like I said, be careful," said Harry. Jiro only gave a nod, grabbed Zachariah by the sleeve of his shirt, and they vanished with a soft POP.
"Still floors me how easy it is for you guys to just… look like whoever you want," said Matt, shaking his head. He took one last drag off his smoke, and crushed it into the ash tray Harry had conjured.
"Magic is a lot of fun. That's what I learned right off, when I first got my wand." Harry reached over to the bed side stand, and picked up his wand. "I still remember Ollivander's words. 'We can expect great things from you, Mr. Potter.' I thought it was weird, but, never thought it would be true. All I ever wanted to be is just a normal kid."
"Doesn't sound like you've had a normal life. Holy fuck."
"Considering I have the most feared dark wizard in history out for my blood… no. But as I was saying, learning new spells and charms… I mean, challenging, but… the first time I was able to perform a transfiguration… it was an amazing feeling."
"But you don't need that much now, I guess," said Matt, gesturing to the wand.
"Most of the easier stuff, no. but anything that needs a lot of power, or it's really complicated, I definitely need my wand."
"Right," Matt nodded. He thought for a moment. "What are you doing today?"
"Probably gonna read this." Harry gestured to the journal that also lay on the bed side table. "You might want to borrow Jiro's computer and get started on those letters."
"I'm a mile ahead of you, mate," said Matt, swinging his legs over the side of the bed, and standing up. "Gonna go see if the others are up."

Harry watched the dark-haired man leave. He was an eye-full, Harry had to admit. He smirked, retrieving the 'borrowed' journal, and flipped it open to the place he had left off. It would be too easy to seduce him, but it would also be very wrong. He'd made his boundaries pretty clear, and besides, Cedric would be crushed. 'Hands off', he thought, focusing on the words on the page. There were bigger fish to fry at the moment than chasing after the untouchable. He focused on the page…

THE DOPPELGANGER CHARM is a most useful charm, should one desire to be in more than one place at a time simultaneously, while avoiding the rather complicated and potentially dangerous effects of a time-turner. Reader beware, however, this charm can be just as dangerous, if used improperly.

Successfully cast, the doppelganger charm will create a perfect functioning duplicate of your person, which will possess all of your memories and intelligence to the point of casting. They will function completely autonomous to the caster, until such a time as the charm is dispelled.

An additional note must be made, that all memories from the doppelganger covering the time it existed, will at that time merge with the caster. Bear in mind, the longer the duplicate exists, the more discomfort will be experienced during the assimilation of memories.

The incantation…

Harry stopped, seeing Matt step back into the room, bringing one of his guitars, and a spiral notebook that had a pen jammed in the end. The book looked quite tattered from much use.
"Err…"
"It's an acoustic," answered Matt. "Figured you could use company."
"Oh… sure." If the guy was interested in hanging around, by all means, Harry wasn't going to deny that. He watched, as Matt again made himself comfortable on the opposite side of the bed. "Wait." He gestured with his hand in the middle of the bed, conjuring up a few more pillows. "That might make things a bit more comfortable."
"Thanks."
"What's everyone else up to?"
"Writing their letters," answered Matt, flicking a stray lock of hair out of his face, "They'll be a while. I didn't feel like being off alone right now, I guess."
"Oh. Gotcha," Harry nodded, understanding at once. They were all having difficulty coming to grips with what was happening. Both fell silent, as Matt dove into his notes, and Harry retreated to the journal again…

The incantation for the Doppleganger charm is as follows: "Expecto Duplocorpus". The wand movements are as indicated in the following diagram: The following page was a full diagram showing the intricate wand pattern. This was where Harry was having the problem. It was truly an intricate pattern, including a thrust of the wand back at himself-or the subject of the copy. Harry smirked for a moment, wondering how his friend opposite him would react should he meet himself.

Although Matt had brought his guitar and notebook into the room with him, he was still far more interested in what the raven-haired wizard was up to, than his own work. He watched the teen as he went through the motions of something drawn in the book-likely practicing a wand motion. He worked at it for nearly a half-hour, then suddenly stood. The wand movement was abrupt and indeed intricate, and with a final jab back at himself, Harry commanded, "Expecto Duplocorpus!!"

Nothing happened.
"Bloody hell why can't I get that?" He muttered, throwing himself back on the bed.
"What's it supposed to do?" questioned Matt.
"Doppleganger charm," answered Harry, "It's supposed to make an exact duplicate of yourself. I'm SURE I've got the motion right, but-" Matt snatched the journal, looking at the page for a moment. "Fuck… looks complicated."
"It is."
"Show me again."

Harry sighed, but traced out the wand movements on the page.
"You missed something."
"No I didn't."
"Yeah, I'm sure you did," Matt challenged, "Look there. Three spots, right?" He pointed to a spot on the page.
"Merlin's pants!" Harry swore, pulling the page closer, "Need to do something about my eyes." Sure enough, there were three small spots to the upper part of the wand movement diagram, indicating three jabbing motions. "I could kiss you!"
"Please don't." His tone was deadly serious, but Harry could see amusement in the guy's light blue eyes.

It was back to practicing for another twenty minutes, this time with the additional motion to it. The thing was, all magic was based on intent as much as wand movements and annunciation. So why wasn't it working? He stood up to try it again. "Expectro duplocorpus!"

A shadowy figure began to form about three feet from Harry. It was indeed an exact clone of himself, right down to the shape and condition of what he was wearing. However, it did not solidify, but fizzled away to nothing.
"That was awesome!"
"No, it was a failure," Harry snorted, again throwing himself on the bed, "Why the FUCK can't I get that to work?!"
"Well, Prongslet, you're in a better place than you were before. At least something happened, did it not?"
"Thanks for the encouragement, dad, but I should be able to DO this shit! It's still like I'm doing something wrong!"

By the time supper was called, Harry had not been able to get any further. Most of the other things in the journal he was able to do quite well. This was the only spell that truly stumped him. Even the first time around, he'd not been able to do it-although Matt had provided at least a partial solution. It DID help if the wand motion was correct, after all. Yet, it was like there was still something missing.

The rest of the evening was spent much like the afternoon, except that Matt did not return to Harry's room-although he did leave his guitar and notebook behind. Harry finally fell asleep as it closed on 2 am, not even having changed into his pyjamas.

Unfortunately, sleep did not bring peace. Harry once again found himself in the graveyard, the high, cold voice calling in a whisper, "Kill the spare."
"Avada kedavra!" cried Wormtail to the night, and Harry spun to see the killing curse strike. But it was not Cedric standing in the path of the green bolt of magic… it was Matt.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Once again, this chapter has gotten a bit of an overhaul to reflect the change of characters and so on. I have to give a nod to GryffRavHuffSlythendor, whose story "Harry Potter and Merlin's Gifts" uses the idea of Harry 'cloning' himself. One comment I have to make about that one, however, the author never truly explains how Harry manages to do it. This comes across as something EXTREMELY difficult, something he's not gonna get on the first go. So yes, he's gonna work at it for a while before he truly gets it.

This chapter's title pays homage to a story I once read a while back, called "Harry Potter and the Nightmares of Futures Past", an amazing 'redo' fiction by Viridian, look it up on Fanfiction.net. Beware, as far as I know, it's not completed, but what was posted so far was awesome. It's Harry/Ginny, but that's all right, being the only canon het-pairing I support for Harry. Some people say it was a bit fast, and in some ways I do agree, but this is neither here nor there. I mean, we do have the Bill/Fleur fiasco… *groans* hate that pairing.

I should also note, Harry's dreams-or nightmares are going to play a part in this story. The things he's seen, realize, ten or more years of horrors. It's bound to have a terrible effect. Post-traumatic stress disorder, anyone?

(1) This is 99 percent verbatim from the movie-verse HBP, other than it being told completely from Harry's perspective. I debated about using the book-verse, but that would have resulted in 10 pages or so, rehashing that particular scene, something I wished to avoid.
(2) As quoted by USN Rear Adm. Grace Hopper, pioneer in the computer field (1906 - 1992)

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: VII - NEW REALITIES
NEXT CHAPTER: IX - THE DARK PURSUIT
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter VII - New Realities

2009-11-09T11:51:51Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: VII: New Realities
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~7,474
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

VII: NEW REALITIES
OR, NEW LIVING ARRANGEMENTS ARE SOUGHT

Whatever else Jiro still had to do with his computers would have to wait, as Kreacher appeared, announcing, "Supper is ready."

Harry took in the six faces that now joined him at the supper table. It was a sure bet four of them would be following him when he returned to his own dimension. By the actions of the other two, they would be as well. He already knew the answer, but would ask just the same.

As people began talking more than eating, Harry cleared his throat. "Time for a little conversation, I think." Most of the plates had by this time disappeared. "I'm just gonna be honest. Matt… what Jiro said is true. If you stay here, the minute you show your face in public, they will find you. You've enraged Riddle beyond anything you could imagine."
"What do we do, then?" questioned Padge.
"You can't show your face in public. V-Tom probably mind-raped him."
"Mind-raped?"
"Legilimency. Except he wouldn't be subtle with it. He tried to break into my mind twice during our duel."
"It felt like my head was going to explode," said Matt, "It was like every memory I had was flying in front of my eyes."
"I'll get you an anti-headache potion if you need it later. But point made, Tom knows about all of you, and he'd make each of you targets."
"What kind of life is that!?" Moose snorted, "We were doing fine, thank you very much!"
"Then you come along and blow everything to hell!" Padge snarled, equally frustrated.
"Guys… it's not Harry's fault," said Matt, "Fuck, if anything, whatever Harry did… part of it's my fault… and that wizard that came before Harry did." He thought for a moment. "Did you look at whatever it was?"
"No. I'm gonna wait until I get back to my own world. I'm gonna let Bill Weasley look at it."
"So you do know him," said Jiro.
"Quite intimately for a while," answered Harry, "I won't get into more detail than that… but you should know, I'm older than I look."
"Considering you fought Riddle to a draw this afternoon, yeah," said Jiro, sounding impressed.
"I've defeated him once already," supplied Harry, "Again, details I'm not gonna get into here right now. Eventually, I'll explain it."
"But no matter what, it sounds like we're going with you," said Matt, "Staying here is death."
"Matt! NO!" Padge growled, "You're gonna throw everything away just because of what HE says?!"
"Do we really have a choice, Padge?! What do you think will happen the first time we do a concert? Huh? I bet the bastard's henchmen would be watching our papers right?" Jiro nodded. "They'd most likely wait until after the concert… they do have some sense of discretion at times. Doing magic in front of a few thousand Muggles wouldn't be smart, even for the Death Eaters. They're not that powerful-yet," he said. Padge snarled something unintelligible again, slammed his fist on the table, and stormed out of the room.
"Worse comes to worse, I'll modify his memory and change his appearance," said Harry.
"NO. He'll be coming with us," said Matt, forcefully, "I'll get through to him." Harry smirked inwardly. It was clear who was the 'whip' in the group. Of course, it was equally clear the others didn't exactly agree with their leader's decision.
"Harry… about us. If you'll let us, we'd like to come along," said Zack.
"I figured that much. What about your home?"
"D'you mind giving us a hand?" questioned Jiro, "Just miniaturizing things."
"What about your family? Like, don't you guys have people that are gonna miss you?"
"No, not really," answered Jiro, "My parents are both gone, I was raised in a foster home."
"Me, I'll be glad if I never see my parents or my crazy brother ever again," said Zachariah, "They doted on him all the time, ignored me most of the time. 'course, it didn't help when they found out I was homo."
"Homo?" questioned Harry, then it clicked. "Right."
"Yeah, my parents didn't take to that very well. Either way, there's nothing keeping us here."
"We have each other, that's all that matters."
"Indeed," Harry agreed, "Tomorrow, then, that's what we'll do. I can probably set up a private flat for you guys if you like."
"You can do that?" questioned Moose.
"That's how this was all created," said Harry, gesturing around him. "It won't be too difficult to make some additions. Anyway. Back to the larger issue. Guys, part of the blame is mine. I promise I'll do whatever I can to help you get back the reputation you have, when we return to my world. It's only fair."
"I'll believe THAT when I see it." Heads turned to see Padge standing in the arch way leading out to the common room, a scowl planted on his face.
"You guys clearly don't know who this is, do you?" questioned Jiro, gesturing to Harry. That was met by a shake of heads. "Potter is a rich guy. The estate… well, before Riddle seized it… it was pushing a worth of about one point two billion galleons. Translated into Canadian currency… well… just think about it this way… the British Pound is worth about five times the Wizarding Galleon. I think you guys can do the math."
"Really?" Harry questioned, "I mean, I just got my inheritance, haven't had a chance to look at it."
"So in other words, he's talking out his ass," Padge snorted, gesturing to Jiro.
"If you're gonna be a part of this conversation, sit your ass down," Matt gestured to his vacated seat. Padge huffed, but returned to it, still glaring at Harry.
"As I was saying… I mean, I know I have a lot of money. At least I did before." That got a questioning look from Jiro. "That's for later… but helping you guys out, it definitely won't hurt my bank account."
"Besides, just imagine, it will be like having a silent sponsor," added Zachariah.
"You make it sound like, 'oh, we can just wave our wand and it'll be all roses'! Well it ain't!" Padge snarled, "You're forgetting we have families, a life HERE! How's that supposed to be made all better, huh? Your magic can't fix everything!"
"Not the first person to say that, and yeah, a lot of others think EXACTLY what you just said, Padge. But no, magic CAN'T fix everything. Merlin knows THAT'S the truth. But it can fix a lot of things."
"We can help you guys say good bye to those who are important and so on," Jiro pointed out. This time it was Moose who got up and stormed out of the room, as the realization hit him. Jay immediately followed.
"Merlin, I know all too well about loss," said Harry, "People who meant a lot to me… and I didn't even have the chance to say good bye. Even now, I have people back where I come from that are probably going half-spare, worried about me. I wish there was some way I could get a message back to them… at least let them know I'm all right."
"So what happened… I mean, what were you doing when you… just before you were slammed into the side of our bus, anyway?" questioned Matt.
"I was talking to Sirius, my godfather," answered Harry, "I was testing something and well… I ended up at his place. I was hit was a bad case of vertigo, and the next thing I know, you guys were standing over me."
"Sounds like you were meant to come here," said Jiro, with a shrug, "I think everything happens for a reason."

Once the others were settled into their own rooms, Harry retreated to his for the evening. The object he had recovered in Montreal peaked his curiosity, and, although he knew he should really wait for Bill, surely a few cursory magical scans and the like wouldn't do any harm, right? He opened the box with a gesture from his hand, then levitated the strange cylinder out onto the floor. Even with the damping charm placed around it, it still radiated a tremendous amount of power. It was almost like the magical equivalent to a battery. Of course, he had handled powerful artefacts before-considering most of Voldemort's Horcruxes were artefacts in their own right. Yet, this was something else. Its power felt 'old'. VERY old. He gestured with an index finger. "Reveal your secrets."

Matt was out in the common room, borrowing Jiro's computer. There were so many things that needed to be taken care of before they actually left, and the computer was a blessing in that regard. Of course, Jiro was more than happy to help out as well, occupying the second machine. The machines were connected to the internet, and with the various magical enhancements, there wasn't a whole lot they weren't able to accomplish.

A loud bang from the corridor broke their attention from the computers.
"What was that?" A sudden icy feeling washed over Matt, from head to toe. "Harry!"
"No, let me… it might be dangerous," said Jiro, but Matt was already off to Harry's room, bursting into the room, and he stopped short, finding the room in disarray. The furniture had been overturned, and it resembled the aftermath of a tornado. Harry was slumped against the wall under the smashed fake window, and he wasn't moving.
"Jesus, what was-Matt? What happened?" questioned Moose, nervously, peering into the room.
"Move!" Jiro snapped, pushing Moose aside, and storming into the room. He too, stopped short, seeing the destruction. "Holy shit!"
"Ditto," said Matt, "What did he do?"
"Idunno, holy fuck," said Jiro, making an intricate pattern with his wand.

Matt had to duck several times, as displaced and damaged items seemed to float around, putting themselves back into their rightful place, putting themselves back together. To him, it was a truly awesome display of magic. The bed was finally making itself, and the glass reassembled itself in the windows, the light fixtures reassembled themselves and reappeared where they belonged. He looked down, feeling something tugging at his foot. A thin journal was trying to escape from under it. He lifted his foot, and the book shot back to a stack on the dresser.(1)
"Both of you, get out," said Jiro, with a tone that left no room for argument. Moose shrugged, and left, but Matt had no intentions of doing so.
"Are you deaf?"
"No, but who the fuck do you think you are, ordering me around?" Matt crackled, his temper rising.
"I, am a wizard. You, are a Muggle. What do YOU think you can POSSIBLY do to help?!"
"B-both of you… quiet…" Harry moaned, at last stirring.
"You all right? What happened?" questioned Matt, kneeling beside him.
"The object… I was examining it… it… didn't take kindly."
"That wasn't all that bright, Harry," said Jiro, shaking his head, "Are you hurt anywhere?"
"I'll probably have a nasty bruise on my back," said Harry, "Impacted the window rather heavily, I think." He gestured at himself with his hand, intending to clean himself up. It barely worked, and he suddenly felt light-headed. "Shit. Help me up, Matt." Matt scrambled to his feet and obliged, helping Harry up, but the boy was in no shape to stand on his own, and collapsed into him. Needless to say, Matt was not exactly comfortable with this, but by no means was he just going to drop him. He easily lifted the boy about the waist, carried him over to his bed, and set him down. "Holy fuck."
"Now get out," said Jiro, icily. Matt only spun around, and clocked the dark-haired wizard across the jaw with a vicious punch, sending him crashing to the floor. "Wizard or not, YOU get out!" 'Where the hell did that come from?' he thought in his head, while Jiro glared back at him, spitting out a mouthful of blood. His hand moved toward his wand, but he thought better of it, scrambling to his feet. He stormed out of the room.
"Kreacher?" The little elf popped into the room. "What can Kreacher do for master Matty?"
"Harry was messing around with… he passed out." Maybe he should have just let Jiro handle it. Too late now.
"Master Harry is hurting his magic," said Kreacher, "Kreacher is taking care of young master now." He waved his thin figures at the prone boy, who was suddenly dressed in his pyjamas. Another wave of the hand, and he was tucked into bed. "Young master is nearly depleting his magic and is needing watching."
"That can happen?" questioned Matt, digging in his jeans for his pack of cigarettes. It probably wasn't polite to smoke in Harry's room, but he was feeling more than stressed at the moment.
"If a wizard over extends himself yes it can," said Kreacher, "Master Harry unleashed powerful magics, he did."
"Will he heal?"
"He will heal, yes, but not quickly. You is helping take care of him now?"
"I… of course. His parents… their portrait… they should know what happened."
"Kreacher is fetching their portrait now," answered the elf, and he was gone with a light POP. He returned a moment later bringing the portrait in question. He was followed by Jay and Moose. "What happened to him?" questioned Moose.
"Master Harry is hurting his magic," answered the elf.
"So that's what the loud bang was earlier," said James, as their portrait was placed on the wall.
"Oh, Harry, what have you done to yourself?" questioned Lily, sounding very concerned.
"Kreacher is returning to the kitchen now." With that, the elf vanished with a light pop.

The rest of the evening was spent barely moving from the room. He was somewhat confused by the emotions he was feeling. The boy was clearly important for their safety-Jiro was just an arrogant ass, that was for sure. Pushing his way into the trunk-magical or not, obviously this was Harry's home. The guy and his partner had just invited themselves in! Had it been Matt's place, they would have been thrown out on their arses! Sure, Jiro was quite helpful with some of the legal processes and whatnot, but his attitude was grating at best.

If anything, Harry was too kind. What was the story anyway? He leaned back in the chair beside the bed, resting his head against the wall. The question was, why did he care? It was almost as if something were commanding him to watch over the boy. To make sure he was safe. Yet, how could he do that? And WHY would he want to do that? It didn't make any sense!

"…you can't save them all, Harry…" the high, cold voice taunted, the sounds of maniacal laughter filling his head. The scene showed a Muggle playground in broad daylight, with every single man, woman, and child laying dead at the hands of Voldemort and a group of his Death Eaters. No Aurors would be coming; Voldemort WAS the Ministry of Magic, after all. The Order of the Phoenix was virtually crippled, and Snape, stuck at the school, was not much use as a spy of late, so the Order was a non-factor.

The dream changed.

"Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry!"
"Stand aside, you silly girl… stand aside, now…"
"Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead-"
"This is my last warning-"
"Not Harry! Please… have mercy… have mercy… Not Harry! Not Harry Please-I'll do anything-"
"Stand aside-stand aside, girl-"(2)
A brilliant green flash filled the scene, accompanied by a piercing scream.

Harry sat bolt upright in the bed, a scream at the tip of his tongue, while his head throbbed-although not his scar-course not, Voldemort had not come back yet… not at this time-at least not in his own world. Nonetheless, the dreams still hurt, an exact reminder of what his mortal enemy was capable of-equally as much as what had happened the previous afternoon.

A soft snort to the left of him got his attention: Matt had fallen asleep in the chair beside the bed. 'How did I end up here?' he wondered. He had been changed into pyjamas, and tucked into bed. 'Kreacher', he guessed. Matt didn't come across as a cuddly type.

His mind settled back on the current conundrum he faced: how did he end up in a parallel universe? Not only that, but how did his trunk follow? This was definitely beyond a simple time-turner. Very powerful magic was at work, that was his only conclusion. As powerful as the artefact that had blown him across the room. He assumed Jiro had cleaned things up. Harry guessed the guy was in his mid twenties, so was more than capable of an advanced clean-up charm.

Another snort beside him reminded Harry he was not alone. He had six new friends, and his parents' portrait, as well as Kreacher-the old house elf had undergone an amazing transformation in the short few days he had been in the trunk. The thing was, how would he ever honour his promise to him now?

Next time he woke, the light of an overcast morning was streaming through the fake windows of the room. He was alone, but he could hear voices from the other rooms: the others were up and about. His head felt like it was about to explode, and his body felt terribly weak. He knew what had happened: he had somehow overtaxed his core, and made himself sick.
"Kreacher?" Harry whispered. The elf popped in beside the bed.
"Master Harry is staying in bed today, he is," the elf announced, at once adjusting the bedding.
"I'm sorry I haven't been able to get you the present I promised you, Kreacher," said Harry, "But… well… given how things have ended up… I can't just yet."
"Kreacher understands."
"I will do it, somehow. And I know you will like it." The elf nodded, then said, "Master Harry is needing breakfast now, and Kreacher will be bringing it." He popped away. A moment later, he returned, bringing a tray with cereal, toast, and a few slices of fruit.
"Thank you, Kreacher."
"Sleep all right?" Matt stood in the doorway.
"yes and no. Feel like I've been trampled by a herd of hippogriffs, though."
"A herd of what?"
"Oh… err… like horses. I'll show you sometime," said Harry, adjusting his position so he could eat, and moving the tray over his lap.
"You look sick, mate," said Matt, moving to take the seat beside the bed again.
"It's magical exhaustion. I should have known better than mess around with that thing-" he gestured to the box by the dresser-"Now I'm paying for it. Matt… promise me you won't touch that… or anything else in here if you're not sure of it. I don't want you guys hurt."
"Sure," said Matt, and then asked, "How long will it take you to heal?"
"I dunno, a few days, a few hours. I've done it so much, it varies."
"Can you still do magic?"
"Not really a good idea. Even doing small stuff could knock me out again, or worse. I could end up a squib."
"A what?"
"Someone who knows about magic, but can't use it."
"Like me?"
"No, you're a Muggle. Like I said before, you shouldn't even KNOW about magic."

The two of them fell silent for a minute, while Harry had a bit more of his breakfast. Matt was finally able to get a good look at the young wizard as he ate, and for the first time noticed the lightning-shaped scar over his right eye. "What happened there?" he questioned, daring to reach over and trace the mark; the skin was raised along the edges, as if it had been done recently. It felt like a scab.
"I guess now is as good a time as any, to tell you the story of a man named Tom Marvolo Riddle," said Harry, at last pushing the tray off to the side. Kreacher appeared immediately, and took the tray away. 'How was it the elf knew when Harry was done?' Matt wondered, while Harry continued, "Anyway… the story begins in early July of 1980, when the headmaster of my school was interviewing a woman to become the new Divination teacher. She wasn't the brightest woman in the world-and I can tell you that from personal experience… but the headmaster hired her anyway, for her protection. All because she told a prophecy …" Harry paused, and recited the prophecy Dumbledore had wanted to keep guarded and secret for so long.
"So the prophecy is about you?"
"It actually could have meant one of two babies born at the end of July that year. Me, or one of my close friends, Neville Longbottom. Right brilliant wizard he is… So anyway… Riddle, or, Lord V-you-know-who as he has named himself-I'll refer to him from here on out as you-know-who… had a spy listening in the night the woman, Sybill Trelawney, made the prophecy. Of course he only heard part of it, but he tore back to you-know-who and reported what he heard, incorrect information as it was. I think in hindsight, had Riddle known the entire contents of the prophecy, he would have waited. As it was, wanting to eliminate the implied threat, he attacked.

"I'm not going into all the back details, but my parents did go into hiding, and one of their closest friends betrayed them. On Halloween night, 1981, Riddle attacked. He killed my parents, then turned his wand on me…"

Matt once again saw the same vision as he had the previous morning… a woman pleading for Harry's life, a blast of green light that filled his vision, and a horrible wail. "Your mother was killed by a green light?"
"She was… how do you know that?"
"I saw it… like a memory, or a dream."
"When I gave you some of my blood… of course!" Harry guessed, "You need to tell me if you see anything else like that… or if anything, err… well, weird happens around you." Matt only smirked, and gestured around him. "And this ain't?"
"Touché," Harry conceded, then continued, "So he turned his wand on me, and cast the killing curse-that same green magic you saw. Except that it backfired, leaving me with this scar."
"And Riddle died?"
"No… no he didn't. Because, see, Riddle had done some truly horrible things to make sure he COULDN'T die. He's created containers… Horcruxes… that contain pieces of his soul. And far worse… this…" Harry again gestured to his scar, "Is one of them."
"Is it dangerous? Does it hurt?"
"Well… yes, it hurts sometimes, usually if I'm close to him… and well… it's not dangerous, exactly… except that… as long as it's inside of me… so long as Riddle has just one of those things, he can't be destroyed."
"So you have to die?"
"Yes and no. It's kind of like a 'freebee' the best way to put it. I can 'die' once, without actually dying."
"How do you know that though? What if you're wrong?"
"You just have to trust me. There'll be a time when I will have to get rid of it, because until I do, Riddle will continue to survive."
"Right. Neither can live while the other survives."
"So in other words, the monster that attacked yesterday will do it again wherever you're from." Both Harry and Matt looked up to see Padge and Moose standing at the door, Padge was again glaring at Harry.
"Yes. I won't lie to you, quite likely I will confront him again. But as things are now, he's just a shade, with no real power. He tried to get his body back at the end of June, but we stopped him from doing it."
"So what's wrong with you?" questioned Moose, moving to stand beside the dresser.
"The magical artefact I collected in Montreal… it didn't take kindly to my examining it."
"It blew up his bedroom," said Matt, "Holy fuck you're lucky you weren't killed."
"I'll second that. It also means I'm not doing any magic today. Padge or Moose… could one of you fetch Jiro for me?"
"Um… about Jiro," said Matt, messaging his right hand, while Moose left the room. Harry spotted the inflamed knuckles and knew at once what had happened. "I'll get you a pain-relieving potion in a second."
"What'd ya do, punch him out?" Padge smirked.
"It's not funny," said Matt, coldly. The object of discussion appeared in the doorway. He, too, did not look happy. "What?"
"Guys, please," said Harry, "I just need to let you know, I'm not going to be doing much today. I know I promised to help but-"
"It's all good, got it under control," answered Jiro. He was still giving Matt death glares, and the interaction was not lost on Harry.
"Right. Mate, your help is really appreciated. Your attitude, on the other hand…"
"He's an asshole," Matt finished. That got another death glare from Jiro.
"Err… well… no, but still. Look, guys. I'll put this in simple black and white. Next time there's a fight, SOMEONE will be put in a full body bind for a time I feel appropriate. Don't make me treat you like five-year olds."
"Then maybe you should remind Mr. TUCK here, it's a criminal offence for a Muggle to attack a wizard," Jiro huffed.
"Dragging out a pureblood law? That's petty," said Harry, frowning, "Really petty. Just drop it, the both of you."

Harry laid back down as the others left, blowing out a breath. "Worse than a bunch of children," he muttered.
"You handled them well, son," said James.
"Pretty bad when 'I' am supposedly the kid here."
"But Harry, don't you see? Mr. Tuck cares for you," Lily pointed out, "Or he wouldn't act the way he is. You've gained yourself a loyal friend there."
"I guess… Kreacher?"
"Yes, master Harry?" said the elf, after popping in to stand beside the bed.
"Grab a pain-relieving potion and take it to Matt. He's hurt his hand last night."
"Right away, master Harry." The elf went over to the large cabinet in the corner, opened it, and drew out a vial. After closing the cabinet, he popped away.
"We're still very proud of you, son," said James. Harry felt his cheeks get warm at the praise from his father. In another time, he had gotten that often, but it still felt good either way. Even though in a portrait, his parents still proved to be extremely helpful. He closed his eyes, allowing his mind to again rest. How deeply he wished he could let people know he was okay!

Sometime later, Matt returned to Harry's room to make sure he was okay (where was THAT coming from again?!). He was startled to discover a brilliant red bird resting on the headboard, preening its feathers. The bird looked up, seeming to appraise Matt for a moment, then let out a trill, a single, wonderful note filling the air.
"Do you belong to Harry?" The bird seemed to shake its head, its black eyes staring holes in Matt's chest. A sudden rush of memories flashed in front of his eyes, then all ceased, the bird once again letting out a long, musical call.
"How come you're here?" The bird looked down at Harry, who had not moved an inch, even with the noise the bird had made.
"Did he call you somehow?" The bird nodded.
"You're a magical bird, then?" The bird nodded again.
"It's Dumbledore's familiar," said James, "He must've somehow known Harry needed help."
"Even in another dimension?"
"He's a phoenix, a very powerful magical animal," explained Lily, "And Harry has a strong connection with him."
"Like what he shares with… you-know-who?"
"I strongly doubt that. But it's likely got a bit in common, I would assume. It's truly an honour to stand in his presence, phoenixes are one of the most light-oriented creatures in our world," said Lily. Matt only nodded, and approached the bird, daring to reach out and stroke its beautiful feathers. It was truly a magnificent creature, far beyond anything Matt had seen before.
"He likes you," said Lily, "Or he'd never let you near him." Matt only nodded, continuing to stroke the bird's feathers. A single memory was playing over and over in his head. The event that had shaped all that had followed thus far-the powerful wizard and the strange object left near their bus in Montreal.

The next time Harry awoke, it was dark, with the light of the waxing half-moon providing the only light through the fake window. He was starting to feel better, but still wasn't at one hundred percent. He could get away with lesser spells, but nothing major, such as a Patronus. "Tempus," he whispered, directing with his right index finger. '3:22 am' wafted from it. It was quite early, but he had been on his back long enough.

Sitting up, it was then he noticed he was not alone in the room. "Fawkes! How did you get here?" Harry was shocked and excited Dumbledore's familiar had been able to find him. The bird only blinked at him, letting out a happy trill. "Well, I'm glad you're here. Can you get a letter back to… certain people?" the bird nodded. "Great! I know they're worried about me."

That answered the first order of business. He made his way out to the drawing table in the common room. It was dimly lit by several gas lamps, but with a gesture from his hand, they brightened, bathing the room in warm light. Quickly procuring paper and a pen, he scribbled out a letter.

"Okay, Fawkes, this goes to Cedric Diggory," said Harry. He had debated who should be notified first, but it was a fairly easy call in the end. Sirius was his godfather, but Cedric was his love. He would share the note with Sirius no matter what, although Harry did say for him to do exactly that.

As Harry was tying the letter to the phoenix's leg, he heard a door open.
"Feeling better?" questioned Matt, stepping into the common room.
"Getting there. Enough to be up and about. Have you met Fawkes?" Harry gestured to the bird.
"Yeah, earlier."
"Git. You could've woke me," said Harry, in a mock-scolding voice, as he finished securing the letter. "Okay, off you go. If you can, wait for a reply and come back." The bird only nodded, then burst into flames and vanished. Matt shielded his face in shock.
"Holy fuck! What… what happened to him?!"
"He's a phoenix. It's how they travel when they don't fly," Harry explained.
"He will come back?" Matt was still shocked by what had just happened.
"Definitely. Likely with a couple of letters at minimum."

oOo

Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place had been in an uproar since Harry vanished two, now going on three days ago. The majority of the Order of the Phoenix now walked its halls, as clues to the boy's location were ferreted out. Cedric had also been brought to the residence and given the secret so he could come and go as well-it was only fair he be allowed to help out, considering how close he was to Harry.

Ron and Hermione were also there, along with most of the Weasley family. Molly had taken it particularly hard, considering she saw Harry as an eighth child. She was in such a terrible state, she could not help prepare the meals as she usually did; Dobby and Winky were only too happy to take over.

The large group was currently sitting down for lunch, now nearing the third day since Harry vanished. Ron was barely touching his food, in stark contrast to his usual eating habits. In fact, the twins were equally not eating all that much; it affected all the Weasley children in some way.

Just then, with a flash of flame, Fawkes appeared behind Cedric's chair. He hopped down to the table, and held his leg out, around which was secured a letter.
"Maybe Dumbledore found him!" said Ginny, hopefully. They all knew who the bird was, and who he belonged to.
"No, I think he'd just bring 'im here," said Ron, between bites, "I mean, why waste the time?"
"He's right, Ginny."
"It's from Harry!" exclaimed Cedric, as he opened the letter. Everyone's head snapped up at the utterance, including a particular potions master, who stood at his usual dark corner of the room.

Cedric began reading: "Cedric, Do not read this aloud… err, sorry guys, guess it's just meant for me." He then continued reading:

I don't want you to share this with anyone except for Sirius, for now. I don't know what happened, but, I have somehow been sent to a parallel universe. Kreacher is with me to keep me company in the trunk, which seems to have somehow followed me-Merlin only knows how THAT happened. I'm very much in the dark about how I'm going to get back. Maybe share this with Hermione, ask her if she could help… I'm really at a loss and well… I'm sort of involved now, I hope you understand.

Feel free to send back a reply with Fawkes, he seems to know how to find me. Let Padfoot also read this, it's meant for him too.

I miss you so much, Cedric. You're never far from my thoughts. Neither are you, Padfoot.

Love you both,
Harry

Cedric felt a range of emotions as he read the letter. Clearly, Harry was all right, but yet… 'Leave it to Potter,' he thought, passing the letter to Sirius.

"Well? Is it Potter?" questioned Mad-Eye Moody.
"I'm certain," answered Cedric, "Excuse me."
"Well, where is he?" questioned Tonks, sporting very bright pink hair.
"You wouldn't believe me if I told you," said Sirius, looking up from the letter, "Although it seems trouble does follow him."

oOo

"Where are your friends at… as far as what I've asked?" Harry questioned, taking a seat in front of one of the computers. It hadn't been all that long since he'd touched one after all.
"Still very divided," answered Matt, occupying the other seat, "I mean, even I'm put out by this crazy-assed suggestion… holy fuck."
"I would be if the tables were turned. But it's the only way you guys will have a chance, you know that right?" Harry pointed out. Matt only nodded. "I know. But still, it's difficult. Then the prick has to-"
"Who?"
"Jiro… fucking ass… he's just-I swear to God I almost decked him again earlier. You wizards aren't all that bright sometimes."
"No, not always." Harry had to fight to keep from laughing. This was a serious topic, after all. "Just try and be patient. If this stuff is all the twins' work, I want Jiro to share it with them."
"So you're just keeping them here for that?"
"yes and no," answered Harry, "Having another wand here is a good thing. If we're attacked again, I'll take all the help I can get."
"Padge's about ready to clock him too."
"Just try to keep it together around him. I'll fix it today so they have their own apartment, and we won't see them as much."
"You should see their room now… holy fuck, they moved half the furniture down here already."
"Well of course, Jiro's a wizard. He'll likely get rid of his house pretty quick. What about you? Do you have things you'll want to keep?"
"I have a flat in London."
"I can probably have Kreacher go and collect everything for you, if you'd like."
"What about Moose, Jay, and Padge?"
"If that's what they want, I can do the same thing."
"Your elf… he'll be careful? There's some shit that's a bit-"
"Fragile? Yeah, of course he'll be careful. I won't send him off just yet, he's probably asleep."

Once breakfast had finished, Harry passed the memory of Matt's flat to Kreacher by Legilimency, and the elf popped away-Harry had obtained a memory of it earlier. He had to give a mischievous smirk. Hopefully no one else would be there-they would be in for a rather startling shock!

In the mean time, he helped Jiro and Zachariah finish packing up the contents of their house. The order of business that afternoon would be to create a separate apartment for them, so they wouldn't be constantly butting heads with the members of Bullet for my Valentine.

That train of thought was interrupted, as Fawkes flashed into the common room, to land on the chair at the drawing table. He had several letters in his claws.
"Fawkes. You got back to Sirius and Cedric?" The bird seemed to nod, then hopped down onto the table in front of Harry. The bird had several letters tied to his leg, which Harry relieved him of.
"What… what is that?" questioned Padge, finally finding his voice. He happened to be stepping out of the dining room when the bird arrived. Harry grinned, saying, "This is Fawkes, and he's a phoenix."
"He's… beautiful."
"I haven't met anyone who thought otherwise," said Harry, relieving Fawkes of the letters. He took a seat at the drawing table, and while Matt looked on, he picked up the first letter.
"What's that?" Matt pointed to the wax seal that kept the letter closed.
"The Black family crest. This one's from my godfather," answered the teen, as he broke open said seal.

Harry,

Glad to hear you are okay, Dumbledore was in a right state when you up and disappeared three days ago. I'm sorry to have to tell you, but he was able to read the letter-his magic is somewhat more powerful than mine-needless to say we aren't on speaking terms at the moment due to that little stunt. He's got Minerva and Filius already doing research into what may have caused your disappearance.

Although he is not sending you a letter himself, he did pass on word that you may continue to call on Fawkes to keep us all up to date on what is going on. You should also remember, and I quote, 'should things become too difficult, Fawkes is a remarkable bird, as you may remember from your dealings at the end of your second year'.

Harry stopped reading. Of course! He could go home at any time! Fawkes could just… just flash him home! Just grab his tail feathers, and all of this would be over. He would be back with Cedric, get back to the plans he had started to put into action a few days ago…

Yet, he just needed to look to the man who stood behind him, probably reading over his shoulder. These guys were all in grave danger. He couldn't just leave them here. There were loose ends to deal with first! He continued reading:

I, on the other hand, know how you work, Harry. I know that you will consider Dumbledore's words for all of five seconds before discarding them to the virtual rubbish bin-although I do suggest you keep his point in mind. If it gets too dangerous, do not risk your life. You do have a destiny here, keep in mind.

Do keep in touch, Harry.

Love,
Sirius

That letter lifted his spirits a fair bit. What had his boyfriend wrote? He opened that next.

Harry,

You have no idea how terrified I was when Sirius informed me what happened to you. I am relieved you are okay, I have slept very little over the past three days. Your letter will have to keep me company until you return-Sirius and I had to threaten Dumbledore with bodily harm before he would return it… Git. (Harry snickered when he read that… 'my knight in shining armour…', he thought, and a giggle escaped his lips)

The entire Order has been reassembled, and they've been working overtime trying to figure out what happened to you-at least until your letter arrived. Now, of course-I'm sure you've already read Sirius' letter-Dumbledore's got them all digging into this 'parallel dimension' theory. You're absolutely sure you've gone to a different dimension? I didn't think that sort of thing was even possible.

Do be careful, Harry. Love you always,

Cedric

Hermione and Ron's letters were predictable, with each going through a range of emotions, Hermione raving about him 'contaminating the time stream', while Ron seemed to be impressed at Harry's 'prank'. It wasn't a prank! Sometimes his best friend could be as thick as a brick.

When Harry finally looked up from the last letter, Matt could see the strong effect all the letters had on the boy. He had lost some of the edge he had been carrying since they had met.
"Thanks for your help, Fawkes," said Harry, "Do you need to be getting back anytime soon?" The bird only let out a happy trill, as if to answer, "Nope! I'm yours."
"He's got a beautiful voice," said Matt.
"His song is one of the most beautiful things you will ever hear," answered Harry, "It's a strong symbol of the light side. I've heard it a few times, each when I was about to die." That got a dark look from Matt. "He's saved me at least twice. His tears have powerful healing properties." Harry turned back to the bird. "Can I ask you a favour, then?" The bird blinked at him. "Great. Can you retrieve something from Dumbledore's library?" The bird shifted on his perch as though uncertain. "I just need to borrow it and I know if I asked he would probably say no. I'm not doing anything bad, it's just… the particular book-or journal I need has instructions on how to do some very advanced magic, something I want to do here in the trunk," Harry explained, then added, "Besides, when have you last had a chance to play a prank on him?"

Harry swore he saw a mischievous glint in the bird's eyes as he opened his wings and flashed away. 'Bloody hell, he didn't even wait for me to tell him which book I needed!'

oOo

Yesterday had been a tiring day for Albus Dumbledore. He had been sure that, with the gentle nudge he had included in Sirius' letter, Harry would just return with Fawkes. Alas, this was not the case, and, as he entered his office to start the day, the bird had still not returned-he was startled out of his thoughts as said bird appeared in a burst of flames. He did not have Harry with him, however, as he settled on his perch for a few moments.
"Harry's still not decided to come back, I see." There was disappointment in Dumbledore's voice. Fawkes let out a happy trill, and looked back at the headmaster as if to say, 'He's busy and he'll come back when he's good and ready!' He lit from the perch, flying up to the upper shelf of books, seeming to look for something. Abruptly, a claw shot out, snagged a book; both bird and book vanished in another burst of golden flames.
"Perhaps Fawkes is serving two masters," said the portrait of Armando Dippet.
"Perhaps," Dumbledore spoke, "Although if Harry desired something from my collection, he could have just asked."
"Oh come off it, Dumbledore, you know exactly what your answer would have been!" the portrait of Phineas Black snorted.
"Yes, particularly THAT volume," said Dumbledore, noting the particular book Fawkes had taken. It wasn't a book, exactly, more like a heavy journal, covering some of the rarest and most advanced charms in existence. Alas, Harry most likely had a strong need of it, and it wasn't like he could just force the bird back with it. No, this was definitely a battle lost.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: So… how are people liking Jiro? *smirks* Yes, he is an arrogant ass at times. Harry won't put up with it for long, neither will Ron or Hermione for that matter. That's gonna be fun.

Matt's band-mates, of course, are very much torn at this point, and of course they are all very right: what Harry is asking is pretty steep, if perhaps unreasonable. How will that work out? Wait and see…

(1) This idea is taken from HBP, movie-verse, when Dumbledore helps Slughorn to put the house he was 'borrowing' back to rights.
(2) Taken from p. 281, Deathly Hallows, Canadian soft-cover edition.

(1) velocitatem - L. "swiftness, speed"

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: VI - TABOO
NEXT CHAPTER: VIII - NIGHTMARES OF A FUTURE PAST
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter VI: Taboo

2009-11-08T11:26:03Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: VI: Taboo
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~8,204
Warning(s): Coarse language, graphic violence(!).
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

VI: TABOO
OR, TRUCK STOPS AND DEATH EATERS DO NOT MIX

The next time Harry woke, the light was streaming through the window into his room through the fake window-his room was a western exposure, and magic ensured it would always align that way, no matter HOW the trunk was oriented. He slowly sat up, and stuck out an index finger. "Tempus." '1:30 p' appeared in faint text just above it. 'At least I didn't sleep the whole day,' he thought. He stood up, gesturing at himself, and became instantly dressed. Dudley's cast-offs… they really HAD to go.

Stepping into the corridor, he stopped at the guest room and looked in. Matt was still asleep. 'Not surprised there,' he thought, they had all been up almost twenty-four hours, from what he could gather from Matt's memory. Harry left the guy for now. There were bigger fish to fry, after all.

Stepping into the common room, he could hear voices wafting down through the trunk hatch. The other members of the band were obviously awake.
"Did you sleep well, dear?" questioned Lily, from her portrait.
"Yeah, fine, mum."
"You should look at the map."
"Why?" questioned Harry, stepping up to the drawing table. Of course, Harry had managed to complete the map, wanting to be able to keep an eye on not just his relatives' place, but the neighbourhood in general.

The map was still active… and moving? He tapped the map once to zoom it out to its maximum distance, which could show a twenty-five mile area. He touched the map with an index finger, and commanded, "velocitatem!"(1) He'd never expected to need a speed reading from the map, but nonetheless, the indicator charm had been built into it. '70 mph' appeared at the top of it. 'Right, of course… bus… mobile,' Harry realized. The band was probably expected somewhere, and the bus was one of the ways of getting there. Harry climbed the ladder and stuck his head out.

Sure enough, the scenery was flying by the windows. The rest of the band were seated around the small table, but fell silent seeing Harry appear half-way out of the trunk.
"We didn't know where you were going or whatever," said Padge, "But we needed to get going. We have to be in Toronto tonight to give an interview at MuchMusic."
"Doesn't bother me," answered Harry, "You guys had anything for lunch yet?" Blank stares gave him the answer he needed. He took a look up front, and gestured with his hand. "Confundo." He turned back to the group. "Come into the trunk and join me for lunch." He climbed back down, disappearing into the trunk. Padge only shrugged, and made to follow.

Stepping back into the trunk, Harry found Matt standing in the archway to the corridor again. "I just asked the rest of your friends to come down and have lunch."
"About to ask what time it was."
"About 1:30. By the smell, Kreacher's already got something ready for us. Right smart elf he is." The others had by this point made their way down the ladder one at a time and now stood in the common room, staring wide-eyed at their surroundings. Padge, of course, had already saw it, and was excluded from said reaction.
"This way guys," said Harry, gesturing toward the dining room.
"But… how is this possible?" questioned Jay, "You've got a whole flat down here by the looks of it."
"That's exactly it," answered Harry, "Some pretty advanced charms involved, I can tell you that. Stuff none of you should actually be seeing, but it's a bit late now. If the ministry ever found out… it would be a one-way-ticket to Azkaban… wouldn't even bother with a trial this time."
"Ministry?" questioned Matt, as he took a seat at the table.
"What's Azkaban?" questioned Padge.
"We have our own government, and our own prison," answered Harry, "Just as corrupt as a Muggle government, if not worse."
"But… what's wrong with telling us about… well… all this?" Matt gestured to the room.
"Magical people are actually quite rare. You outnumber us about a hundred to one. If a Muggle government ever decided we were a threat…"
"Right, gotcha," Matt understood. Just then, a large platter appeared at the centre of the table with a light POP. It contained a tureen of tomato soup, crackers, and a plate of sandwiches. A pitcher of pumpkin juice and a pitcher of apple juice also appeared.
"What did you to Adam, by the way?" questioned Padge, as he took a serving of soup and a sandwich from the platter.
"Confundus charm," answered Harry, "It doesn't hurt… it just prevents me from answering some uncomfortable questions."
"A little late," said Jay, "We sort of already showed him."
"Shit."
"Sorry, but-"
"No, it's okay. Guess I should have expected that in a way. But I guess now's as good a time as any. I have to cast memory charms on all of you so you can't violate the statute of secrecy… such as you did with your driver," said Harry.
"You promised-" Matt began, but Harry held up a hand. "I promised not to hurt you… but I also have to follow the law. I'll place a secrecy charm on you guys. So if someone doesn't know about my world, you can't tell them about it. Does that make sense?"
"So… like, that's what would happen to your friend's parents?" Matt guessed, as he too served himself from the platter in front of him.
"Yeah, exactly. I'm not breaking my promise to you guys. But at the same time, I have to respect the law too."
"Guess that makes sense," said Padge, "It's just… this stuff is… MAN… holy fuck, there's a whole world we didn't know of!" Harry grinned at that. "Exactly how I felt when I was eleven years old."
"Why then?"
"That's when a magical child gets their letter inviting them to a magic school. Of course, my useless aunt and uncle tried to keep that from me. They didn't have a clue, and still don't, I think."
"So you go to a school that teaches magic? Sounds awesome," said Matt.
"I thought so too. Until I found out the Wizarding world is as twisted and fucked as the Muggle world, if not more so. I've got a few really good friends, and loads of enemies because of who I am. Being a wizard isn't as great as you guys may think." He thought for a moment. "Once we get to Toronto, I won't stick around. Trust me, you guys don't want to be involved with me or the shit that's going on in my world. Better if you just forget you ever met me."

The remainder of the meal passed in silence, as each fell into their own thoughts. Harry could see each of them were captivated by the environment, but equally torn. Question was, would they honour his request?

The biggest question, was how to get home. His floo obviously didn't work. Using an international floo was out of the question, and creating an international port key was dicey at best. Last time he tried that, he'd ended up nearly a hundred miles off the mark, landing rather painfully in a tree. Most likely, he would have to apparate a bunch of times to get back to Little Whinging.

He was drawn out of his thoughts as the dishes all suddenly vanished.
"Harry… we're going back out-um, back up to the bus. Come if you like," said Matt. Harry only nodded, and followed the group. Climbing out of the trunk, he took the offered seat across from the table. From there, he was finally able to get a good look at their mobile home. It was well equipped, to say the least. Of course, from the glimpse into Matt's mind, these guys were doing quite well for themselves at this point, and could no doubt afford it.

Toward the back, he could see a couple of bunk beds built into the wall of the vehicle. No doubt there were a pair mirrored on the opposite side. The area they sat in currently looked like it was set up as a sort of office, while further up front, where the trunk rested, was more of a lounge area. Harry smirked to himself, thinking what he would do with a bus like this. After all, the ministry DID have those cars that were bigger inside than out, right?

Padge had at this point retrieved an acoustic guitar from one of the storage closets, and returned to his seat. "You play anything?" he questioned, as he began to pluck out a soft melody on the instrument.
"No. never had the chance," answered Harry, "Between my WONDERFUL relatives, and the dragon shit I've had to deal with in the magical world… no time for hobbies."
"That sucks."
"You have no idea."
"So what do you do, just study magic?"
"I have to. It's either that… or well… I'm not gonna get into my life, I'm sure the last thing you all need to hear is my 'woe is me' tale." He watched as Padge continued to strum his guitar, the music filling the bus. "So what sort of music do you guys play anyway?"
"Metalcore, the best description," answered Matt, "You heard Metallica before?"
"Okay," Harry nodded. "My cousin sometimes listens to their stuff."
"We opened for them a while back," said Padge. The bus was leaving the highway. "Need to refuel," came the driver's voice-Adam, as Harry remembered. Sure enough, they were pulling into a massive truck stop, as dozens of rigs were parked, their owners likely inside getting refreshments themselves. His travelling abroad for several years gave him some insight into Muggle methods of travel, after all. It also meant Harry would have to be extra careful casting magic. The petrol fumes could be ignited by a simple spark-he'd witnessed such an incident.
"Good chance to get out and stretch our legs anyway," said Moose, while Padge was already setting the guitar aside.
"I'll be right back. Good chance to get a few things Kreacher didn't get when he went shopping for me." Harry had noticed the place had a fairly large convenience store. "You guys have any money on you?"
"What-"
"I just need to see it for a minute."
"Oh." Matt pulled out his wallet, and lay a twenty dollar bill on the table. Harry picked it up and looked at it-after all, it had been a while since he had dealt with Canadian currency. "Thanks." He passed the note back, then waved an index finger in a series of motions at the table. Instantly, a stack of identical notes appeared.
"Damn."
"Untraceable?"
"As far as I know. I mean, I could have done it quick and dirty, just use a stack of paper with a Confundus charm on it… but this is more professional. Take a few if you want, I can make more."
"Thanks!"

Less than a minute later, Harry was filling a hand basket with a number of items, mostly things which were rather difficult to get back in England. That also included a number of snacks-cookies, crisps (or potato chips, as North Americans called them), and a case of soft-drinks. If he was going to be entertaining, might as well act the part, after all. He quickly paid for his purchases, and once he was sure no one was watching, he miniaturized everything.

Climbing back aboard the bus, he then apparated into the trunk. He placed the items on the table in the dining room and restored them to their original sizes. "Kreacher?"
"Yes master Harry?"
"Could you put this stuff away for me?"
"Right away, master Harry," said the elf, giving a low bow.
"Great. Thanks." He popped back out of the trunk.
"MOTHERFUCKER!" Matt shouted, a bag full of chips going flying as he leapt back, very much startled by Harry's sudden appearance. He looked like he had just seen a ghost.
"Err… sorry, forgot about that."
"How… how the fuck did you do that?"
"It's called apparating. I can… well… pop from place to place," Harry explained, gesturing with a hand, cleaning up the mess he'd just caused. "I owe you a bag of crisps. Give me a moment." He popped away, only to return seconds later with a replacement. "Here."
"What's wrong?!" Padge exclaimed, storming onto the bus.
"It's cool… Harry just scared the shit out of me, is all," Matt responded. His heart was still pounding, and he had no doubt in his mind his life had just been shortened by a couple of years. "Harry… show Padge what you just did."
"Err… right." Harry vanished to stand behind him.
"Damn!" Padge looked impressed. Then he smirked and said, "Just don't scare Matt when he's sleeping."
"Why not?" Questioned Harry. Matt simply stepped around the boy, went to his bunk, and dug into a side compartment, pulling out a gun. "Just in case," he said.
"Hm. Good against Muggles. Voldemort… not so much so."
"Who's Voldemort?" questioned Matt, but Harry had no chance to answer, as a series of loud POPs were heard outside. Dark cloaked, hooded figures had appeared outside, and were making a bee line toward the bus.
"Both of you stay here… if anything happens get in the trunk and close the lid, understand?" No answer. "Answer me!" Matt scowled, but nodded, while Padge only muttered something unintelligible.
"I mean it, STAY here." With that, Harry stepped outside to face the threat. Death Eaters, five of them.
"Well well," one of them sneered, apprising the boy, "You look familiar."
"No, it can't be. The Dark Lord dispatched him twelve years ago," spoke a second. He had a wheezy voice, somewhat reminding Harry of Amycus Carrow.
"Harry? You know these people?" Jay had stepped out of the store, carrying a bag of groceries.
"See?! I told you! It's Potter!" spoke the first Death Eater, while another levelled his wand at Jay. Harry had no choice, thrusting his wand at the first speaker, who was lifting his sleeve, most likely to call for backup. "REDUCTO!"

The dark wizard was blasted nearly fifty feet backwards into the side of a parked tractor trailer, and landed in a heap. He did not get up.
"AVADA KEDAVRA!" screamed the wheezy-voiced wizard, and Harry was forced to duck a green bolt of magic that slammed into a nearby car, causing it to explode in a fiery blast. Harry slashed with his wand at the wizard's upper torso, shouting, "SECTUMSEMPRA!" The wizard's head seemed to roll about, before sliding off the stump, and falling to the ground with a sickening 'plop'. The headless body followed, as if in slow-motion. The third wizard sent a bolt of purple magic at Jay, who had the sense to duck to the side. The curse sailed through the door of the store to impact with a shelf inside, scattering merchandise in all directions.

"Padge… get in the trunk," Matt snapped, cocking the hammer on the gun still trembling in his hand. Whatever these people were, they were not only attacking Harry, but one of his band mates. That was personal. Padge huffed, but did as Matt asked, climbing into the trunk, closing the lid. Matt, meanwhile, crouched beside the door, taking careful aim at the head of one of the dark wizards who continued casting dangerous magic. Several cars were completely destroyed at this point, and most people had scattered to the wind, understanding the danger. He pulled the trigger.

BANG! The dark wizard faltered in the middle of casting another curse, and clutched his chest. He stumbled forward for a few steps, then collapsed to the ground, knowing something had pierced his chest, and most likely it was fatal. With the strength draining from him, he made one last move before expiring, pressing his wand to the dark mark tattooed on his arm. The Dark Lord must know of this!

The two remaining wizards had saw the muzzle fire from the bus, and while one occupied Harry, the other seized the opportunity. Matt was nailed with a strong stunning curse, and dragged magically from the bus.
"Well, well. Potter's made some friends!" the Death Eater sneered, his voice low and bullfrog-like. Harry wheeled around and sent the attacking wizard flying against the side of the bus. He too, did not get up. 'Why didn't he just do as he was told?!' Harry fumed in his head, as he was once again forced to duck a bolt of red magic that instead slammed into one of the gas pumps. It had to happen eventually.

BOOOOOM! A geyser of fire erupted from the destroyed pump, casting a blinding light over the area.
"ACCIO MATT!!" Harry shouted, hand outstretched, breaking into a dead run. The entire place would go up in a fiery explosion, he was working with borrowed time. More flashes of red and green magic whizzed overhead and around him. Another loud explosion rang out, threatening to throw the boy to the ground, but he held on. And, as the stunned body of his new friend bumped into his hand, he disapparated.

They reappeared on the opposite side of the busy freeway. Harry thrust a hand at Matt, snarling, "Rennervate!" He opened his eyes at once, and found himself looking into green eyes that burned like fire.
"Bloody hell why didn't you do as you were told!?" Harry hissed, casting a silent healing spell at a nasty gash on his forearm.
"HEY! MY FRIENDS WERE IN FUCKING DANGER, TOO, ASSHOLE!" Matt roared back, "Or do you not care?"
"Of course I do! I had it well in hand, thank you-"

BOOOOM! A tremendous blast shook the ground, and the sky seemed to light up brighter than the afternoon sun. Being a major truck stop, the place held large tanks of petroleum products on site. It was followed by several more smaller explosions, while flames roared hundreds of feet in the air. Both of them could feel the heat from the inferno even though they were easily five hundred feet away.
"You've killed them. My friends. You've killed my friends," said Matt. He looked destroyed, simple as that. Of course, Harry knew he would feel the same way, were the tables reversed.

"AAAAAAAH!" Harry cried out, as his scar seemed to explode in pain. If things were bad, they were about to get a LOT worse. But… THIS DOESN'T MAKE SENSE! Harry shouted in his head, still wincing from the white-hot pain radiating from his cursed scar. It was confirmed, as a high, cold, voice said, "Hello, Harry."

Matt looked up at the new speaker, and knew at once he was looking into the face of pure evil. The figure had pale, grey skin, where in some places, thin blue veins passed. His finger nails better resembled claws, and the face… it better resembled a snake, with a nose that were better called slits, and red, reptilian eyes.
"What… who… who are you?" questioned Matt, trying to be brave. That was met with icy cold laughter. "The Muggle demands to know my name? You are not fit to know my name. But Harry knows how I am, don't you?" Matt suddenly felt like his head was about to explode, as a torrent of memories suddenly flashed before his eyes. It was like what Harry had done, but it HURT! The wizard here was by no means subtle, charging through his thoughts and memories like a bull in a china shop. It suddenly stopped… Harry was speaking.
"What do you want, Tom?" Even though Harry was completely in the dark about what was going on at the moment, he would not show fear. He had defeated the bastard once already.
"You dare call me that foul name?!"
"Yes, I dare. It's what you were called, was it not? Tom Marvolo Riddle?" questioned Harry. Voldemort hissed at the use of his real name, the wand twitching in his hand-wait. How did he get the Elder Wand?
"How is it you've come to be here, Harry?"
"I don't know, but I've gone to hell." He felt the Dark Lord press against his defences, and so he obliged, sharing a quick memory of his 'arrival'.
"Ah. A parallel universe? I see it, the confusion is there in your eyes. Perhaps then I shall help my counterpart, no?"
"Parallel universe?" Matt parroted. But Voldemort was already thrusting his wand at Harry. "Good bye, Harry."

This would be an ugly duel, no doubt. Harry thrust his hand at Matt, shoving him out of the way, and sprang to his feet as a blast of green magic barely missed. He answered with a bolt of purple magic, which Voldemort only brushed off as if batting away a mosquito. He answered with a jet of black energy. Harry side-stepped it, and was lucky he had, as it nailed a clump of reeds, causing them to crumble into dust. He felt the Dark Lord again attempting to break into his mind, but pushed him out, while sending a bolt of red magic at him. Again he only swatted it away as though it were a minor nuisance.
"Come on, Harry, you can do better than that," said Voldemort, with a cold laugh, once again unleashing a killing curse. It smashed into the ground where Harry had been a fraction of a second earlier. 'Where the hell are the Aurors?' he shouted in his head, unleashing another blast of purple magic.

Matt looked on while they duelled. It was incredible, and terrifying, all at the same time. The truck stop was a smoking ruin at this point, and it had taken less than five minutes. Five minutes had turned Matt Tuck's world upside down. More colourful blasts of magic erupted between the two wizards-obviously very powerful wizards, no mistaking it. By the sounds of it, the two of them had a history.

The dark wizard had his back to Matt at this point, and he did not waste the opportunity, fishing into the pocket of his shorts, and pulling out a five-inch jackknife. It might buy Harry some time in this clearly even match. He opened it up, and let fly.

Harry was too busy protecting himself in this life-or-death duel to notice what Matt was doing, but if he had, he would have put a stop to it. Suddenly, Voldemort let out an angry hiss, jarring slightly as though something had hit him in the side. Harry knew at once what had happened, and the result would not be pretty. A Muggle did NOT attack the most feared Dark wizard in history without repercussions. It all happened in slow-motion, the bolt of angry red magic crossing the distance between the Dark Lord and Harry's new friend, slamming into his chest.

A fiery rage erupted from deep inside.
"CRUCIO!" Harry hissed, causing his wand to actually vibrate with the power being forced through it. It had been a while since he had cast an unforgivable, but he was certainly capable of it. Of course, Voldemort only side-stepped the curse, and a smile formed on his lips. "Well, well. The golden boy DOES know how to cast unforgivables. This is a surprise, I must say." Harry only glared at the Dark Lord, casting a glance over at Matt, who lay in a pool of his own blood, trying to breathe through his shattered lungs. He would be lucky if he lived.
"Oh, Harry, you can do much better than that," Voldemort mocked, "Stooping to the level of Muggles?"

A bolt of purple magic came out of nowhere, followed not a second later by several loud bangs, sounding exactly like Matt's gun.
"Pick on someone your own size, snake-face!" came a taunting voice. The Dark Lord spun and trained his wand on the new speaker. The guy was short, five foot four if he pushed it, brandishing a short wand. His black hair stuck up in numerous places, not unlike Harry's, and his face had a hint of Asian ancestry. Chocolate brown eyes held a fire of hatred, as he let fly another curse that bordered on unforgivable.
"More friends of yours, Harry?" Voldemort laughed, as he flicked the dangerous curse aside. Several more bangs, of which he also dodged. "Resulting to Muggle tactics against me? Rather low for a wizard, is it not?" Another had joined the fray, brandishing a large revolver. He was much taller than the first newcomer, with sandy brown hair, and a face full of piercings. Harry took the opportunity while Voldemort was distracted, thrusting his wand at Matt, "Petrificus Totalus!"

More gunshots rang out, and Harry was confused as to how the gun could keep firing. It looked like a revolver, and it only had room for so many bullets, right? He sent another bolt of red magic toward the Dark Lord, his mind focusing back on the issue at hand. The others had now joined Harry. "Dude… let's get your friend, we can apparate." As good a plan as any, Harry had to agree, as they backed up slowly, keeping spell fire and gunfire trained on the dark wizard.

It would require split-second timing. He had to grab Matt somehow, while the others grabbed onto him. Another twenty feet… "Sectumsempra…" Fifteen feet… "Reducto!!"
"AVADA KEDAVRA!" Voldemort again sent an angry green blast of magic toward the combatants, causing them all to duck, almost stumbling backward. No good to lose their footing at this point… it would be game over. Harry hissed out a spell, sending off a bolt of black magic identical to one Voldemort had used only a minute earlier. It stopped Voldemort for a second, as he realized what had happened.
"You are truly my equal, Harry," said the Dark Lord, "If only you would see truly how powerful we could be." That caused both newcomers to pause. After all, there had only been one 'Harry' to go toe to toe with the Dark Lord. But he was dead! How was this possible?!
"I will join you when hell freezes over," answered Harry, his voice cold and even. Five feet. Four. Three. Two. "NOW!" Harry dropped to the ground, grabbing Matt by the pant-leg, while the newcomers grabbed onto Harry's shirt. They vanished with a loud CRACK.

Harry was relieved as they landed in a heap in the middle of the common room. Padge was on top of Matt in an instant, terrified at the state of his friend. "What… where are the Moose and Jay?!"
"Idonnknow, dead, injuried, I don't know," Harry breathed, trying to steady his nerves.
"You're really Harry Potter?" questioned the black-haired newcomer.
"Yes."
"But, how? It was all over the National Wizards' Standard twelve years ago, he killed you!"
"I don't know! I just… bloody hell what the fuck was that?!" Harry shouted, exasperated. He crawled over to where Matt lay. "Let me see him."
"Is he gonna die?" questioned Padge.
"No. Not if I can help it. Kreacher?" The elf in question popped into the room. "I need a few calming draughts, please."
"Right away, master Harry!" The elf popped away, only to return a moment later with five vials.
"Great, thank you." He accepted them, and slid one into a pocket, while passing three to his new guests. He consumed one himself.
"Dude… he's gonna need a blood transfusion," said the dark-haired wizard. "I'm Jiro, by the way, and this is Zachariah, or Zack for short."
"Wish we were meeting on better terms," said Harry, "You guys have any skill healing?"
"No."
"Not me… I'm just a Muggle," said Zack. Harry only nodded.
"Just a Muggle?" Jiro snorted, "We've had that discussion before!"
"But how did this all happen?" Padge demanded, still gravely concerned for his friend, "Harry said something about Vol-"
"NO! DON'T say his name!" Jiro hissed, "So THAT'S what happened. Harry, don't you know?"

It clicked. Of COURSE he knew about the Taboo curse Voldemort had placed on his own name, after he took control of the ministry in 1997. But this was Canada! What was Voldemort doing over here? Unless… "Is… is you-know-who in control here? In Canada?"
"Yeah, pretty much," answered Jiro, "He stormed the ministry on New Years' Eve 1999."
"It's true, then. I'm in a parallel universe. V-you-know-who said something like that a minute ago. But I should have figured it out sooner… it was getting dark were I came from," said Harry, as he began casting healing charms at Matt's chest. There was a lot of blood, but the boy ignored it. "Bloody hell I can't believe he did that."
"Matt's always been a little adventurous," said Padge.
"No, he was bloody stupid!" Harry hissed, "Lucky the Dark Lord didn't just outright kill him."
"What did he do?" questioned Zack.
"I think he threw a knife at him."
"Brave AND stupid," Jiro agreed.
"Nothing we can do at this point, the damage has already been done," said Harry, continuing to cast healing charms. "He won't be doing a whole lot for the next little while. I'm not too bad at healing-had to learn fast."
"Thanks," said Padge.
"For?"
"For saving his life."
"It's the right thing to do. And we're not in the clear yet." Harry looked to Kreacher, who stood off to the side. "A pain-numbing potion, please." The elf bowed, and popped away to return seconds later with the required potion.
"Thanks."
"Don't wake him yet… he needs blood," Jiro pointed out. Harry agreed, seeing how pale Matt looked. He had indeed lost a lot of blood. The 'Reducto' curse was truly destructive, after all.
"Do you know how to do it?"
"Yeah, I've seen it done. Padge… hold his hand out for me, palm up." Padge nodded, and picked up Matt's right hand, holding it palm up. "Now…" Harry drew his wand across the palm, speaking, "Diffindo." The palm seemed to split, a line of blood squirting from it. Harry did the same to his own hand, and mashed them together, causing blood to ooze out through the gaps. He spoke, while weaving his wand in an intricate pattern around the clasped hands, "My blood, freely given, so that you may live." A red swirl of magic enveloped the joined hands, and Harry could feel his own magic at work, pushing his blood through the cut into Matt's body.

"Not Harry, not Harry, please not Harry!"
"Stand aside, you silly girl… stand aside, now…"
"Not Harry, please no, take me, kill me instead-"
"This is my last warning-"
"Not Harry! Please… have mercy… have mercy… Not Harry! Not Harry Please-I'll do anything-"
"Stand aside-stand aside, girl-"(2)
A brilliant green flash filled the scene, accompanied by a piercing scream.

Matt's eyes snapped open, but he quickly realized that was the ONLY thing he could move. It was as if he were a statue. 'Was that a dream? Am I still dreaming now?' He could feel a warm substance on his hand, and a glance confirmed it was blood. Harry had his hand clasped in his own, a trickle of blood was flowing down both their forearms. Harry was gazing down on him and their eyes locked. "My blood, freely given, so you will live." He paused, as fiery rage burned behind his eyes. "Merlin's pants what were you thinking?! You could have been killed, I could have been killed!" His body was trembling, Matt could feel it through their clasped hands. 'I was just trying to help, asshole!' he wanted to shout, but he could form no words. His chest still burned as if it were on fire. Harry at last released his hand, and Matt felt a moment of white-hot pain drag across his palm.
"I had to give you blood or you would have died," said Harry, "Now I'm gonna let you out of the petrifying charm, and I need you to take a potion. It'll numb the pain…" Harry again pointed his wand at Matt's chest, whispering, "Finite."

Harry was right. He needed that pain relieving potion like yesterday! Harry could see the shock of pain on Matt's face and immediately passed him the potion, which he gulped down hurriedly. It had an immediate effect, and the raging pain in his chest dulled to a throbbing pain, which he could better deal with.
"Where is Jay and Moose?" Matt demanded, realizing he could move and speak again.

Harry had completely forgot about them. He was immediately in front of the map. He forced it to zoom close. "What are their full names?"
"Jason James, and Michael Thomas," Matt supplied.
"Locatus, Jason James," Harry commanded, tapping the map. It zoomed in at once, to a spot not far from the truck stop. Luckily, Moose was close to him.
"That's one hell of a map, Harry," said Jiro, coming to stand beside him.
"Yeah, right useful. And we still have a problem." He pointed to the label 'Tom M. Riddle', with a miniature dark mark beside it, circling around a large 'X' on the map. "The 'X' marks where we are. He's likely found our hiding spot." He had no sooner gotten the words out, when there was a loud BANG, and the trunk shook.
"Where are we anyway?"
"This is my trunk," said Harry, "It's been strongly warded, but… it's Riddle. He'll break through eventually." He thought for a moment. "Kreacher, could you please move Matt into his room?"
"Right away, master Harry," said Kreacher. He gestured with his skinny fingers, levitating Matt off the floor, and guided him into the corridor, while Harry summoned his invisibility cloak.
"You're going back out there," Padge guessed.
"Have to, or we're dead." He draped the cloak around him, his body instantly disappearing, leaving only his head visible.
"Holy shit!" Padge was shocked.
"Don't touch anything. I'll be back shortly." He pulled the hood over him, completely vanishing, and there was a soft POP.

He appeared just outside the trunk. Voldemort was still circling it, contemplating what to do next. It was a most curious artefact, considering it was the only thing unscathed in the swath of destruction. He could detect the powerful magical enchantments placed on it. Yet, what was it doing here? Something of Potter's, perhaps?

Harry observed Voldemort for a few moments. Should he risk launching an attack against him? No. His head already felt like it would split in two from the pain blazing from his cursed scar. He simply swooped in, and popped away with the trunk, having already guestimated the location of Matt's friends. He was in luck for a change, as the two of them were huddled close together near a clump of bushes. Harry dropped the hood. "Jay? Moose?"
"Harry! Jesus Christ we're glad you're all right," said Jay. He opened his mouth to ask, then closed it, seeing the trunk at Harry's feet, which Harry was already opening the lid to. "Come on."

Padge looked beyond relieved as his two friends stepped off the ladder and joined him in the common room. Harry was only a moment behind.
"Jiro. Do you know how to make a port key?"
"Of course. Where to?"
"Where do you live?" Harry questioned, wondering just how far his fame might get him here.
"In Toronto. Got something I can use?"
"Here." Harry tossed the guy a cushion off one of the couches. Jiro shrugged, then tapped it with his wand. "Portus."
"Okay. Padge, Jay, and Moose, stay here. You'll be safe in the trunk."
"You're taking us with you, right?" questioned Jay.
"Of course I am! Just stay put."
"We'll come out as well," said Jiro, "My house and all."
"Yeah, of course. Grab onto me, then." Jiro and Zack grabbed hold of his shirt, and the three of them popped away.

"How long before it activates?" questioned Harry, as he shrunk the trunk down and stuffed it in his pocket.
"Get a finger on it, quickly," Jiro warned. Harry and Zack did so, and less than five seconds later, he felt the familiar hook about the naval, as the world spun away.

Harry touched down, and found himself in the back yard of a neatly-kept house. The garden was filled with vivid plants and vegetables-he spotted several magical varieties as well. He let out a snort.
"What?" questioned Jiro.
"Just seeing a few… err… not-so-Muggle plants growing in your garden. My aunt would be in a right state if I were to do something like that."
"That 'Loving' family of yours? A few interesting things came out about your relatives once you 'died'," said Jiro, "It was all over the papers, both here and in Britain."
"They didn't treat me well, but-"
"HARRY! How can you defend them? They beat you to within an inch of your life once!"
"Huh? No, never-err… wait. I keep forgetting, alternate universe."
"So… where you come from, they treat you at least half-decent, then?" questioned Zack. Harry nodded. "Somewhat. I mean, they don't exactly like me, but… they never actually beat me. I mean, getting a swat across the head a few times when I was younger, but… never like what you're suggesting. I'm not THAT daft, and besides, Dumbledore would never allow it."
"Oh, don't get me STARTED on that man!" Jiro hissed, "He let us down… he let ALL of us down, YOU the most when it TRULY counted!"
"Look, mate… in my world, he's a bit manipulative, but… he still cares… I count him as an ally, someone I'm gonna need support from if I'm to deal with… you-know-who."
"All right, I guess… holy fuck this is confusing," said Jiro, shaking his head. "C'mon inside."

The house itself was a one-and-a-half-storey design, with bedrooms upstairs, Harry guessed, as they stepped through the patio door. The bottom floor was completely open, with only a half-wall and an island counter separating the kitchen from the rest of the place. There was a half-bathroom that made up the back part of the stairs.

The house was VERY Muggle, and he only had to look at Zack to know why. It didn't take much to figure out these two were in love with each other. Yet, as he looked around, he spotted a few things that indicated a wizard lived there. Namely, a number of text books in the bookshelf. "Advanced Potion-making, Grade 6"… "Most Potente Potions"… Harry arched an eyebrow. "Magical Beasts and Where to Find Them"… Oh yes, a wizard most DEFINITELY lived here.

"You can put your trunk here," said Jiro, pointing to a spot beside the book case. "I'd offer you a bedroom, but…"
"I already have a bed in the trunk," Harry finished, as he pulled the miniaturized trunk out of his pocket, and returned it to its proper size. He looked over at the twin desks sitting against the opposite wall. Computers. He'd seen models like those not long before he came back… of course, he WAS twelve years into the future, and a very dark one for that matter. Did he want to know what was going on? "Let's get back into the trunk, I need to check on Matt."
"They look familiar," said Zachariah.
"They're some Muggle rock band-never heard of them, though. 'Bullet for my Valentine', I think that's what Matt said."
"Damn. I know who they are, just couldn't place them. Thought they looked familiar… just all this other shit went down," said Zachariah.
"Thanks, by the way," said Harry, "I mean, I've faced him enough, but… he totally caught me off guard… where I come from, he's still just a spirit." He opened the lid of the trunk, but stopped. "What are your names?"
"Jiro Kane."
"And Zachariah Flint-Kane."
"Great." Harry tapped the lid with his wand, speaking, "Addendum, Jiro Kane, and Zachariah Flint-Kane." The lid flashed green twice.
"How long have you guys been bonded?"
"It was three years in May," answered Jiro, as Harry started to climb into the trunk. The pair quickly followed as room allowed, coming to stand in the common room once again.
"Everything's okay?" questioned Jay. He was the only one still in the common room. Harry guessed the others were in with Matt.
"The Dark Lord won't be able to find us for now," said Jiro, "Port keys are hard to trace."
"What's a port key?" questioned Jay.
"It's a type of magical transportation," said James, from his portrait, giving both Jiro and his mate a start. "Mr. and Mrs. Potter?"
"Indeed," said Lily.
"How does this 'port key' work?" Jay persisted.
"Well… you have to have a destination in mind when you charm it… an object, just about anything will do… it's set to go off at a certain time, or at once… and when it does… it takes anyone touching it to its programmed destination. Quite simple, really," Harry explained, "Though… the ministry has tough regulations on who can make a port key. Not that I really care about those rules."
"Couldn't agree with you more on that one," said Jiro, with a grin.
"You'll get along smashing with the Weasley twins," said Harry, with a mischievous smirk.
"Oh, those two were famous here for a while," said Jiro, "Caused the Death Eaters endless nightmares, 'till they finally blew up their joke shop, with them inside."
"That would kill Molly," said Harry, a dark look sliding across his face.
"It did. Her husband found her dead one morning, not long after. It's believed she died of a broken heart-I mean, she had lost Ron, your best friend, right?" Harry nodded. "Well, Percy actually went to the Death Eaters. Charlie vanished."
"Percy became a Death Eater?" Harry arched an eyebrow. "He's a prat, but he'd never betray his family."
"Yeah, lots of people agree on that point. More than likely he's been put under the Imperious curse."
"I can believe that. What about Bill and Ginny?"
"Bill's moved back to Egypt, at least that's what the word is in the underground. Don't know anything about Ginny, though."
"How do you know this stuff, all the way over here?"
"Loads of connections," answered Jiro, "The wizard world is deathly afraid of computers, but Muggle-borns aren't. We keep the information flowing, help out the resistance."
"When did Dumbledore get killed?"
"In 1997, just before the school year ended. Severus Snape took over as headmaster, and still is."
"How is he here?"
"A great man, but you know that already, right?" questioned Jiro.
"Yeah, absolutely. The Dark Lord thinks Snape's his man. Never. He loved my mum too much for that."
"He was humbled greatly with your death, Harry."
"He would be. He swore to protect me." He thought for a moment. "How did you-know-who get the Elder wand?"
"Stole it from Dumbledore's grave."
"Right. Should have known the answer to my own question." That got a strange look from both Jiro and Zack. "Guys… I need to check on Matt, then I'm gonna get a bit of rest, meditate for a while. This has been a cluster-fuck."

The guy in question was resting comfortably, with Padge seated beside the bed, while Moose chose to stand.
"You still comfortable?" Harry questioned.
"Yeah, as comfortable is I can be, I guess."
"It was a reducto curse he nailed you with… I was able to fix it, but you still might ache for a while. How's your breathing?"
"Fine… although it still aches a little."
"Yeah, expected, as I said. Get a few more hours' rest. After which, we are all going to have a conversation." Harry's face darkened with that comment. "For now… I need to get a bit of rest myself."
"We'll keep him in place," said Padge.
"Great."

Harry closed the door to his room with a sigh. Things had gone from bad to worse. In a different world altogether, never mind just a hop across the pond, for Merlin's sake! What the hell was that?! Then, his new friends obviously have no concept of following instructions… never mind a visit from Voldemort, who shouldn't have his body! He blew out a heavy breath, throwing himself onto the bed. This would take a while… so much trash to sort through in his mind since the morning.

More than ever, he needed to get back where he belonged. Clearly, this world was far scarier than what he had seen in his future… a world completely under Voldemort's control was a nightmare. He counted his blessings for Jiro and Zach's timely arrival. He still wasn't sure if he would have been able to escape the duel otherwise, and he had to admit, only one of them would walk away from that. He closed his eyes, resigned to reorganizing the overload of information that came from the rollercoaster of events that had just taken place. It was nearly time for supper before he got up again.

Stepping into the common room, he noticed at once a few things had changed. Namely, the addition of two desks, on which sat two computer systems.
"Nice to see you guys moving in… I'll be even more impressed should they actually WORK in here," Harry smirked.
"Careful what you wish for," Jiro smirked right back, his eyes dancing with amusement, as he finalized the connections.
"But… why wouldn't it work?" Harry looked over to see Matt standing once again by the corridor to the bedrooms.
"Muggle electronics usually go haywire in magically saturated areas," answered Harry.
"Now I know why all our cell phones stopped working yesterday," said Matt, making his way over to where the group was standing, watching Jiro hook up his computer.
"Well, whatever it is now sitting in my bedroom… it was giving off a pretty strong amount of magical energy. I bet everything within about a thousand feet of it went haywire. Which is again why I'll be very surprised should these computers work here… by the way, where do you plan on plugging it in?"
"Here," said Jiro, pointing to a large box. It had eight Muggle electrical receptacles on the top of it, but the front glowed. Harry waved an index finger at it, and arched an eyebrow. "Magic behaving like electricity?"
"Yep," supplied, Jiro, "The Weasley twins invented it. They spawned a whole group of people whose job was to figure out how to make Muggle things work in magical areas. I'm one of those." He pulled the box away from the wall, and gestured to the label on the back. Sure enough, the large 'W' was plain to see: the twins' trademark.
"So… none of our equipment would ever work here, then," said Matt.
"About our equipment…" said Padge, darkly, "What happened to our bus?"
"It was destroyed, Padge," answered Matt, "The whole fucking place blew up."
"I'll replace every knut worth," Harry vowed.
"Nut?" questioned Matt.
"Every penny of it," supplied Zack, "Harry has to keep in mind there are still Muggles here."
"No matter what currency it's in, like I said, I'll help you guys replace whatever you lost. It was my fault attracting Death Eaters. You guys could have been killed."
"Never mind the fact Matt attacked the Dark Lord. Dude… what the FUCK were you thinking?"
"Trying to save Harry's ass, maybe?!" Matt shot back.
"Well, Einstein, you've signed your own death warrant," Jiro snorted, "When they catch you, you'll become the Dark Lord's play thing for a few days. Then he'll get tired of you, and kill you… not before he snaps your mind like a twig!" He finalized the connections, then switched the machine on.

Harry fell silent with what Jiro had just pointed out. Of course, he was absolutely right. The last time a Muggle had attacked Voldemort, it hadn't ended well. Word circulated that Voldemort had kept the man alive for eight days, pushing his mind to the brink. He finally, mercifully ended the suffering, and tore the body into dozens of pieces.

"See? We told you it would work," said Zachariah, drawing Harry's attention back to the present. He only nodded, the novelty of the situation having been clouded by a very grave reality. Whether Matt knew it or not, he was very much a marked man. His life as he knew it was finished.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Weeeeee! Looks like Matt's got himself into a spot of trouble, eh? This chapter was both fun, and challenging to write, as we see just how different this universe is compared to what Harry's used to.

A note about Jiro and Zachariah. I'm a huge fan of the 'Sims 3' game, and they are currently my main 'family' or pairing. If you're a fan, you can download Jiro from ModTheSims . com. His appearance isn't mine, but his personality certainly is. Zachariah is entirely my own creation. And yes, you will be seeing a lot of them in the future.

(1) velocitatem - L. "swiftness, speed"

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: V - A PARTY CRASHED
NEXT CHAPTER: VII - NEW REALITIES
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why I Write Slash: Reason No. 803...

2009-11-08T09:28:55Z

Right. So I know this is an old picture, but nonetheless, it certainly can be interpreted many different ways, no? Of course we know James and Jon are most certainly NOT gay, but that's beside the point. We have the right to our own wicked fantasies, right?

As a writer (by no means a pro, but still, a writer), I draw inspirations from many different things, things I enjoy, things I hate? Sure, why not? Things that make me warm and fuzzy inside, and this picture at left most certainly does that. To see a plot bunny perhaps, and explore, find out, "just how deep the rabbit hole goes".

My recent works have dealt with people who just wouldn't be in that situation in the first place, but yet, somewhere in the back of my very twisted mind, in a VERY alternate universe, it played out, clear as day. So what's a writer to do? Bring those wicked and twisted plotlines out from their dark spaces, onto the written page.

My interests cross many borders. I am a massive music fan in general, covering everything from the great works of Tchaikovsky, to my latest 'discovery', Bullet For My Valentine. Very different musical styles, genres, yet, it very well covers my musical tastes... and of course I love KoRn too :D ...Jon and Munky are adorable in this picture. ...oh no... just got a wicked vision of Jon, James, and... Matt Tuck in a glorious threesome...

...just don't forget the disclaimer, people.

An addendum (this just keeps getting better):

Noooo, not provocative at all... *smirks*

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter 5 - A Party Crashed

2009-11-06T14:45:14Z

Right. Now that I've straightened out the previous chapters up to this point, and deleted the ones following, I can begin posting the new 'temporal invasion'. On Fanfiction.net, the band is renamed 'Thrice Defied', like the part name. The part title is still applicable, cookies to anyone who might spot the connection (it won't be noticed until later, however).

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: V: A Party Crashed
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~4,342
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

V: A PARTY CRASHED
OR, HARRY MAKES A FEW MORE FRIENDS

It had been both grueling and fantastic for the members of Bullet for my Valentine. They had just wrapped up the final stop in that year's "Warped Tour", which had involved over seventy acts, and dozens of stops across North America. Even though it was in fact the wee hours of the following morning, August 14, 2006, the four members of the group were still wide awake aboard their tour bus, along with two members of My Chemical Romance, partaking in something akin to a 'wrap party'. It was a chance to unwind, since there was no real rush to get away at this point, unlike the day before. The air was thick with tobacco smoke, and the number of empty beer bottles were an indicator of the state they now found themselves in.

One of their member was slightly distracted, however, not seeming to have as much enthusiasm as he normally did.
"Okay over there, Matt?" questioned Michael "Padge" Padget, one of his band mates-the lead guitarist for the band. Matthew "Matt" Tuck, the front-man of the band only looked up quizzically, then returned to staring at his half-empty beer bottle.
"He's been a bit off since this morning," noted Michael "Moose" Thomas, who had been goofing around with a pair of drum sticks-he was, after all, the band's drummer. "Not getting ill on us are 'ya?"
"No," answered Matt, curtly. He had tried many times during the day to explain what had happened that previous morning before sunrise, yet… it was as if he were compelled NOT to. His answers were stressed and short, and just perhaps that evening's performance hadn't been one of his best. He had been thrown off-balance for the entire day, and even now, the knowledge some strange event was about to happen kept him on edge.

Curiously, they had been having issues with their cell phones and other electronic devices since the morning-Padge's notebook kept crashing and at times wouldn't boot at all. The GPS unit attached to the windshield was scrambled, and had finally given up the ghost when they had tried it a few hours before. No less than five light bulbs had suddenly burnt out, including one they knew had been replaced only a week before.

"Ah piss on it, we're off guys," spoke Frank Iero, one of the visiting band members, standing. The other, Gerard Way, also stood, planting a beer bottle amongst the numerous other empties that cluttered the small table. My Chemical Romance had been on the same stage earlier in the day.
"He's usually more fun than this," said Padge, gesturing a thumb toward Matt, "Don't know what's been eating him, but-" There suddenly came a whistling sound, getting louder by the second. With a loud CRACK, there was a soft but clearly audible THUMP as something impacted with the side of the bus. A split second later, there came a much louder crash, as something heavy also slammed into the side of the bus.
"What the fuck was that?" Padge was on his feet, as was Moose. Gerard and Frank looked at each other, unsure what to think. Matt, on the other hand, was already making for the door.
"You sure that's a-" Too late, he was already out the door. The others were forced to follow, not sure what kind of trouble they were about to find.

It was immediately apparent as to the cause of the crashes. A teen-aged boy lay crumpled on the ground beside the bus, unconscious. A large steamer trunk lay at a haphazard angle, against the back tires, a large dent marked where it had collided with the side of the bus.
"What the fuck?!" Padge blurted, confused.
"Shit, it's like he fell out of the sky or something," said Frank, kneeling down beside the teen. Matt joined him, and quickly checked for life signs. He was alive, that was good. What now? He reached for his cell phone to call for an ambulance. 'Shit, that won't work… fucking thing hasn't worked all day.'
"You gonna call for help, or should I?" questioned Gerard.
"Your cell phone work? Mine's busted," answered Matt, looking up. "Jay… get a blanket from my bunk so we can cover him up for now." The fourth and final member of Bullet For My Valentine-their bassist, Jason "Jay" James-nodded and stepped back inside the bus.
"Looks like a kid. How the fuck did he get here though?" questioned Gerard, pulling out his cell phone. He opened it up. "Okay, that's weird. It had a full charge a while ago."
"Damned if I know," answered Matt, shaking his head. Of course, he actually DID know what had happened. The boy was here for whatever that guy had buried the previous morning.
"Look at this," said Moose, pointing at something on the ground nearby. It looked like a stick. He reached down to pick it up-and was promptly blown off his feet by an invisible charge of energy.(1) "MOTHERFUCKER!"
"What happened to you?" questioned Jay, reappearing from the bus with the comforter off Matt's bunk. Moose was sitting on his arse, looking quite rattled.
"There's a stick over there that's got some sort of booby trap on it. Holy SHIT that hurt!" His head felt like it was full of cobwebs-perhaps the dozen or so beers he had consumed might have something to do with it also, but, that's neither here nor there. As it was, Moose was feeling much worse for wear at this point. He attempted to stand as Jay dropped the comforter over the boy, but found it almost overwhelming, as he was nailed with a powerful bout of vertigo.
"You're wasted, man," said Jay.
"And you're not? YOU try touching that stick or whatever!"
"Guys," said Matt, "Not helping here."

It was at that moment the boy started to come to, and blinked to reveal the most startling pair of green eyes Matt had ever saw. He blinked again several times, as though trying to focus on his surroundings. "S-s-s-snape?" he mumbled, as they made eye contact.
"You hurt anywhere?" questioned Matt.
"Why… who… all over…" the boy mumbled, "S-s-sirius… where's Sirius? P'fessor… where's…" he blinked again, then lifted his head to get a better look at his surroundings. "Shit."
"He needs a hospital," said Frank, "He's-"
"No… no hospital… potion… got healing potion…" the boy mumbled, again trying to focus on the faces looking down on him. The one with black hair was not Snape. Even without his glasses, he was able to make that distinction at this point. What had happened? He was obviously no longer at Grimmauld Place. He was at last rid of the cobwebs in his head, and made to sit up.
"NO! Don't move, mate… you could be badly hurt," said the black-haired man. Harry could pick up the concern in his voice, and a light peek into his mind said exactly that. "No, I'm fine," he answered, "Just knocked a little silly. My… my glasses. Any of you seen them?" He sighed as those gathered around him shook their heads. He would have to modify their memories later anyway. He thrust out a hand. "Accio glasses!" Said missing glasses snapped into his hand, and he slid them on at once. "Bloody liability," he mumbled, and sat up.
"I did NOT just see that," said Jay in disbelief.
"No, you did," answered Padge, "Unless we're all hallucinating. It was like-"
"Magic?" spoke the boy.
"Yeah, exactly like magic," said Matt.
"You shouldn't have seen that, but… no matter. Where am I?"
"Montreal," said Frank. "How did you get here?"
"Fucked if I know," answered the boy, "I didn't do this on purpose… bloody hell. Accio WAND!" he commanded, hand again outstretched. The same stick Moose attempted to pick up only a minute earlier snapped into the boy's hand.
"What… what are you?" Matt demanded, although he was perhaps slightly nervous. Was it a question he truly wanted answers to?
"I'm a wizard… and you're all Muggles-non-magical people. I'm breaking at least two laws practicing magic in front of you. My name's Harry."
"I'm Matt… this is Frank, Gerard, Michael-but we call him 'Moose', Jay, and another Michael, but we call him 'Padge'."
"Err… nice to meet you."
"You sure you're all right?" questioned Matt. Harry only nodded, and at that, Matt helped the boy to his feet. "So… there's like, a bunch of wizards… not just slight-of-hand bullshit."
"Yeah, absolutely," answered Harry, appraising his surroundings. He still felt a little light-headed, but that too was rapidly disappearing. He stowed his wand in the waistband of his oversized pants, and gestured at the nasty dent in the side of the bus where his trunk had slammed into it. "Reparo." The metal seemed to unbend itself, the dent vanishing in a fraction of a second.
"Um, thanks."
"I caused it… only fair," said Harry, with a shrug. He again took a peek at Matt's mind. 'Muggle rock band, interesting,' he thought, as he began to pull back. These guys would be safe, then. Hold on… "Matt… has there been a wizard here before… like recently?"
"N-yes! There was, yesterday morning," he answered, looking… almost relieved. What had the guy saw? "Do you trust me?" questioned Harry.
"I just met you."
"I… I need to speak to you alone. I'll give you a wizard's oath you won't be harmed."
"A wizard's oath?" questioned Frank.
"It's a powerful invocation that if violated, will cost the witch or wizard who cast it their magic. I have no intention of losing my magic just now."
"Matt… no, it's not cool," said Moose. Two others were shaking their heads too, but Matt only nodded. Harry drew his wand again, and holding it in front of him. "What's your name-first and last?"
"Matthew Tuck."
"Great. I, Harry James Potter, swear on my magic that I shall not harm Matthew Tuck in any way shape or form, so mote it be." A purple wisp of energy wafted from the tip of Harry's wand, which much resembled a trail of smoke. It settled above Matt's head.
"What-what's that?"
"Say, so mote it be."
"So mote it be," Parroted Matt, and the energy dropped into him. He felt nothing.
"And I promise all of you for that matter, I won't hurt any of you."

Matt only nodded at this. It looked pretty sound to him, after all. As much as his friends and band mates were still unsure of things, clearly this was the person meant to pick up whatever was buried the previous morning. He HAD to trust him, then. "Where to?"
"I'll show you," said Harry, kneeling down and setting his trunk level again. He unlatched the third lock, and wrenched the lid open. "Follow me."
"What?" Matt looked doubtful, as he watched Harry climb into the trunk, and disappear. A look inside absolutely floored him. There was a LADDER leading into a room that couldn't POSSIBLY fit in there!
"Come on!" Harry called, beckoning for him to follow. A look back at his friends, and he cautiously followed, although a little unstable considering he was rather intoxicated. He missed the second rung down, and slipped, landing at the foot of the ladder in a heap.
"Shit," said Harry, shaking his head, and held out a hand, helping his new friend to his feet.
"Thanks."
"Come have a seat. Kreacher? You around?" With a sudden POP, the elf appeared in front of Harry, while Matt only stared.
"What-what is that?"
"He's a house elf. He helps keep the place clean, and does the cooking," answered Harry.
"What can Kreacher get master Harry?" the elf croaked out. Matt thought he sounded like a bullfrog.
"An anti-intoxication potion, if you please." Harry gestured to Matt. "I think I might need a headache-relieving potion as well."
"Right away, master Harry." The elf popped away, while Harry gestured to one of the couches that sat at an angle to the fireplace. Harry took the other.
"This is all magic?"
"Everything in here, pretty much," answered Harry. Just then, Kreacher reappeared bringing the required potions. "Thank you."
"Is master Harry and his guest requiring tea and snacks perhaps?"
"Coffee if you have it," said Matt.
"I could use a cup of tea, then."
"Kreacher is bringing both then." The elf popped away. Harry uncorked the vial of anti-intoxication potion, and passed it over, saying, "Sorry about the taste, but it'll help you clear your mind."

Harry was right. To Matt, it tasted like burnt socks. For a brief moment, he thought he would not be able to keep it down. Yet, at the same time, his mind was rapidly clearing. Other than exhaustion, he actually felt sober. The look of surprise was not lost on Harry.
"You didn't think it would work."
"No, not really."
"Harry? What happened?" Both heads swivelled around to the source of the voice. "You did floo to Grimmauld Place did you not?"
"I still don't know what happened, mum," answered Harry. he looked over at Matt, who was doing a very good imitation of a goldfish. "All I know, is I'm on the other side of the pond. Canada, for Merlin's sake! It felt like a port key, but worse. I was talking to Sirius… Dumbledore barged in… and the next thing I know… I woke up with a bunch of guys-" he gestured at Matt- "hovering over me. I swear fate has it in for me."
"And who are you, young man?" inquired Lily.
"Fucking hell… I think I need another one of those potions," Matt declared.
"No, you're fine," Harry grinned, "My parents' portrait. They had it painted before they were… well, I don't want to discuss that… but they're always with me now."
"Is that normal?"
"Very much so, Mr…"
"Oh. Matt. Matt Tuck."
"My parents, James and Lily."
"Never thought I'd ever see a talking portrait. So… you're 'alive'?"
"In a limited existence, but yes," answered Lily, "Not everyone has it done, but sometimes a witch or wizard will wish to leave their essence, their personality behind to help others after they're gone. In our case, we knew our son would want our assistance and guidance even should we pass on unexpectedly."
"I actually just got them a few days ago, along with the trunk here."
"But… how is this possible. Holy fuck this is making my head spin," Matt declared.
"Pretty typical reaction for non-magical folk. I was in a right state for a while when I found out magic was real, too."

There were so many questions racing around Matt's head at this point. Yet, he was truly fighting to stay awake, as there was unfinished business. "I guess you wanted to know about yesterday morning." Just then, Kreacher popped in, bringing a platter containing two cups of steaming liquid, sugar, and cream. "Thank you, Kreacher." The elf bowed, and popped away. The two of them fell silent as Matt added a bit of cream to his coffee. Harry sat back, taking a sip of his tea. When it looked like he was ready, Harry continued, "It's easier if I can just have a look. I can look into your mind, see your memories. It's much quicker that way."
"You can do that?"
"With your permission."
"Does it hurt?"
"With me doing it, no." Matt hesitated, but at last said, "Okay."
"Just focus on what happened yesterday morning. Tell me when you're ready, and keep your eyes on mine.
"Ready." Harry only nodded, and as their eyes again met, Harry gently probed into Matt's mind. He was easily as skilled as Snape was, but approached with the finesse of Dumbledore.

The memory was relatively short, showing a tall man crouched low in a patch of grass that divided up the parking lot. Clearly, he was covering something. Next came Matt's interrogation of the individual, and the most curious reply. He withdrew.
"he left something for me."
"He said something like that… I couldn't tell anyone else about it."
"And you wouldn't. He was a wizard, a powerful one at that. He put a memory charm on you that not even I could break."
"Memory charm?"
"I can make you forget things, or remember only parts of it. I can make you believe something happened when it really didn't. But I promise you I won't." Harry mentally kicked himself as he realized what he had just said. So much for obliviating the guy.
"But why?"
"You shouldn't know about the Wizarding world, Mr. Tuck," supplied Lily, "Muggles cannot know of our world unless there are special circumstances."
"Like what?"
"Well," answered Harry, "One of my best friend is a Muggle-born. Both her parents are Muggles, non-magical people. So of course they would have to know about magic, right?"
"Oh. Right."
"There's a few other circumstance, but normally it's not done." Just then, a voice called down from the lid, "Matt?" A pause, and some unintelligible cursing.
"We're down here," answered Matt, then to Harry, "Can they come down?"
"Not right yet," answered Harry. he still wasn't sure how he would deal with the group. Better not to expose them too much to the wizard world. It was a good thing he hadn't actually used his wand up to this point-he wasn't sure about the magic detectors in the area. Sure, Gringotts recognized him as an adult, but by no means did that carry over to the ministry, at least not yet. Being caught casting magic under age was bad enough… doing it on foreign soil was another matter altogether!
"I'll be back up shortly," Matt called out.
"I'm gonna go retrieve the package left for me," Harry decided, standing, "Make yourself comfortable."

Climbing back out of the trunk, he found the other members of the band gathered close by, all of them looking rather annoyed.
"We have to go get some sleep," said Gerard, "And likely these guys do too."
"Right." Harry looked up at the sky, which was already rapidly brightening, heralding the advancing dawn. Harry had promised Matt he wouldn't harm HIM specifically with mind magics… but not these two. "Nice to meet you both."
"Your magic tricks… pretty cool," said Frank. Harry arched an eyebrow. They still thought it was a trick? All the better, then. Of course, a small memory modification was still in order, just in case. But obliviation was clearly not required.

As to what to do with the others… that was still a problem. They were Matt's friends and band-mates-he wouldn't take kindly to any sort of offence toward them, no matter HOW well intentioned it might be.

Still very much aware the group was watching, Harry made for the small grass island that separated the parking lots. Something was producing a powerful magical energy field… almost intoxicating. It somewhat reminded him of Hogwarts. In fact, the entire area was super-charged with magical energy. Yet, it was at its strongest in one particular spot. Harry reached down, feeling along the ground, and banished a chunk of soil at one spot.

The object was cylindrical, about two feet long, and eight inches diameter, throwing off waves of magical energy that made him stagger for a moment. A damping field might be a thought, perhaps… done. It was then levitated out of the hole. He knew better than to actually touch it, considering the power radiating from it, and so a twig was transfigured into a rough box. The object was lowered into it, the box sealed, and miniaturized. Once securely in his pocket, Harry walked back over to the trunk.
"That was awesome, man," said Jay.
"Yeah, what he said," added Moose. Harry only nodded, saying, "Magic's a lot of fun, true enough."
"How much longer you guys gonna be?" questioned Padge, still looking uncomfortable with the whole affair.
"I don't know. Trust me, your friend will be fine. I'll send him up when we're done." Harry didn't wait for a reply, but once again descended the ladder into the trunk.

In the time Harry had been gone outside, Matt had fallen asleep. This definitely put Harry into a quandary. He actually looked peaceful. Yet, he was certainly a stranger, and trust did travel both ways. Was it safe to leave him? Worse off, his friends outside were about ready to storm into the trunk. He made a decision.

"So are you finished now? Fuck, we need to get to sleep," Padge complained. The guy looked dead on his feet, dark circles around his blood-shot eyes, as he brushed a lock of hair out of his face.
"I need to ask a favour," said Harry, "Is it possible to put my trunk on your bus? Matt has decided to make himself comfortable on my couch."
"What?"
"If you put my trunk on the bus, I'll leave the lid open and you guys can come in as you wish, although I know you need some sleep as much as I do."
"Right. Fine, bring it," said Padge, shifting uncomfortably on his feet.
"I really won't hurt any of you."

Once the trunk was placed on the bus in a way Harry could get into it, he did just that. Padge was quick to follow, wanting to be sure Matt was okay.
"Shit… this is fucking wild," he commented, seeing the inside of the trunk for the first time.
"Shhhh…" Harry gestured to Matt's sleeping form on the couch. "Trust me, he'll be fine there. Glad you guys look after each other," Harry whispered, "I've got friends where I come from that would do the same thing."
"We've all known each other for over eight years," said Padge.
"That's something to treasure," said Harry, walking softly over to the couches, where his tea was resting on the coffee table. Steam was still rising from it, courtesy of a warming charm. He quickly consumed what remained of it.
"I guess… as long as he's okay there. Jesus fuck I need some sleep."
"Go. I need sleep too."

Once Padge had left the trunk, Harry gestured at Matt with a hand, and levitated him into the extra room beside his own. The couches in the common room were comfortable, but definitely not a place to sleep. He stepped back to the door, and finally got a good look at the sleeping form. The guy WAS good looking, after all. Harry guessed he was in his mid-twenties. Long, black, straight hair, a lean, trim body, most definitely a fine catch for anyone. His left upper arm had a rather intricate tattoo on it, and he wore a simple beaded chain around his neck. Very yummy indeed. Speaking of yummy…

Seconds later, Harry was kneeling in front of the fireplace. Cedric would be very worried about him. How long had it been since he had disappeared from Grimmauld Place? No doubt Sirius had let him know right away. His boyfriend was going to be in a right state! He tossed a pinch of floo powder into the grate, causing the flames to roar green. "Fire-call Diggory residence!"

Nothing happened. The fire popped and fizzled, returning to its normal orange colour.
"WHAT?!" He tried again, and got the exact same result. "What the FUCK is going on?!" He tossed in another pinch of floo powder. "Fire-call Number Twelve Grimmauld Place!" Same result. "Fire-call Hogwarts, Professor Snape's Office!" Once again, the floo refused the connection.
"Mum… why won't the floo work?"
"I don't know, Harry. You did configure it correctly?"
"You saw me use it to visit Sirius. It can't have broke."
"Um…" Harry turned around to see Matt standing unsteadily at the archway separating the bedrooms from the common room.
"Shit. Sorry. Just having a small problem," said Harry. He instantly felt bad for waking his guest up. "Get some rest, your friends know where you're at."
"Thanks. A good bed is nice for a change." Harry grinned at the implication, and the dark-haired man disappeared back down the corridor. Of course, Harry realized, being a member of a musical act did tend to leave out some creature comforts now and then. He knew all about the lack of creature comforts… at least until he had obtained a magical trunk the first time around. The tent Hermione had obtained in the fall of '97 left a few things to be desired, after all.

Harry blew out a breath, realizing that at this point there was nothing more he could do. He felt exhausted, both physically and mentally. The thing he needed now, was sleep. He retreated to his bedroom, pulled the miniaturized box containing the recovered object out of his pocket. For the time being, he re-enlarged the box and placed it beside the dresser. He would have a closer look at the object after he had gotten some rest-things such as that were better done with a clear head, after all.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: I know there will be questions as to why Harry would be so trusting. Remember, he is a powerful legilimens, and can most certainly determine whether someone's a threat or not. The members of "Bullet For My Valentine" are definitely not a threat to him. Now, of course, he has put himself into a bit of a pickle as for exactly how he's going to make them forget about him and magic, right?

My Chemical Romance did NOT play the 2006 Warped tour, but I'm allowed to bend canon, now, aren't I? After all, that's why it's called an 'alternate universe'.

Next chapter, the guys from "Bullet" get a brutal introduction to a certain Dark Lord… WEEEEEE!

(1) As JKR has explained, it is most unsafe for a Muggle to handle a wizard's wand. The results may be… unpredictable.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: 4 - THE TAMING OF SEVERUS SNAPE
NEXT CHAPTER: 6 - TABOO
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": RELOADED

2009-11-03T14:49:49Z

A days' work, and I'm finally back on course as far as this story goes. This time around, we start right at the beginning, and you the reader get a better idea as to the WHY behind the strange device Harry encounters in the Room of Requirement at Hogwarts.

A rule of thumb at this point, there will no longer be chapter summaries provided. I'm getting lazy, sorry.

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: Prologue
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~2,545
Warning(s): Coarse language.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way...
Disclaimer: See first chapter

DISCLAIMER: Most of the characters are not mine, nor are parts of the plot. This is written purely for my amusement, I earn nothing financially by its production. I give a nod to JK Rowling, the estate of Marion Zimmer Bradley, and the estate of C. S. Lewis, whose sandboxes I borrow. I do not know either Matt Tuck, nor any other member of "Bullet For My Valentine", I am just a humble fan.

FANFICTION WARNING: Like all my fan fictions, there will be slash, and numerous crossovers, and probably a few other annoyances (at least to some readers). OOC a possibility, a very strong possibility. Live!Cedric, powerful!harry, Dark!Harry, mostly disregards books 5, 6, and 7, although touching on some concepts. Post Chronicles of Narnia, LWW, possible spoilers… Also, spoilers for "The Mists of Avalon" movieverse.

PROLOGUE
OR, THE STORY HAS TO START SOMEPLACE

11,086 B.C. - Undisclosed Location
"What time do we have left?"
"A day, two at most."
"You are sure of this?"
"My sight is true, Protagos. It has always been true and I have no cause to doubt it now," spoke Paneia, "The rest of the council must be told."
"As alarming as that prospect sounds, I must agree. Let us wake the others."

The room teemed with people, all of which were most concerned at the memories shared by Paneia, thanks to a small clay bowl, containing a shimmering liquid. It would later come to be known as a pensieve.
"It is as our oracle has seen. We must take steps at once, shall we wish to endure to the future."
"But-why? Why have the gods failed us?"
"It is not our place to question the gods. It is our duty to preserve the artefact."
"Against the forces mounting against us? Xandaros, you cannot be serious."
"It must be done at all costs," said Xandaros, "Although it will mean the destruction of our world. It is clear there is one who will need it far more than us. A magic caster nearly as powerful as we, and that is truly making a statement, if I may point out."
"We will evacuate enough of our number to ensure our race continues," spoke Protagos, "It is clear that is what is required. The rest of you, as Emperor Xandaros has commanded, take with you the parts of the artefact, and scatter them across the temporal plane. The darkness must NEVER obtain its powers."
"It is true," spoke Paneia, "That must never happen, for if it does, not only our dimension would fall into peril. It would doom many more."
"Then let us do as our Emperor commands. I will configure the Temporal Displacement Device at once."
"The controller itself must be placed where the boy will encounter it, Ninesto. Make sure the instructions are found either first or second following."
"The boy should not need his hand held, Protagos," spoke Paneia, "My visions have been clear. He will be more than intelligent enough to sort it out."
"You chance too much on fate," answered Protagos, "We must not."
"I will take appropriate actions to ensure the right outcome," said Ninesto. Already, the chamber was emptying, as the ruling council broke to carry out a rushed set of orders.
"I do have to question, however, why must this boy be saddled with a second destiny? Clearly he still must complete the first, does he not?" questioned Protagos.
"It was not our decision," answered Xandaros, "You will do well to pay more heed to the visions of your bonded."
"I am merely concerned."
"It is not our place to be concerned. That is up to the gods. Let us not terry, our time is waning."

August 8, 1378 - Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry -
Being a master of magic, Ninesto had visited the young magical school several occasions already, such was it a typical thing for the great practitioners to visit magical schools periodically. The great Wizarding schools were responsible for teaching the new witches and wizards, after all.

It had been him who had left a rather curious document detailing instructions to create a most magical room on the seventh floor. Rowena Ravenclaw had been the one to pull it off-such a powerful witch, that one was.

Of course, all four of the school's founders were powerful in their own right. Yet, madam Ravenclaw was the smart one of the bunch, as were those in her namesake house at present. A thirst for knowledge was one of the trademark traits of a student sorted into Ravenclaw.

Protagos, of course, found amusement in the clever nuances of the castle, and perhaps a little bit of mischief. After all, just where did the idea of staircases that like to change come from? He had slipped a few notes to Salazar Slytherin, the clever one of the four. Along with the moving staircases, other mischievous items ended up in the castle, including a great number of secret passages.

The house of snakes were the devious, the sneaky, the ambitious of the students. Many would make their mark on the wizard world, whether it be for the light OR the dark.

Godric Gryffindor needed no assistance from Ninesto or his fellow practitioners. The wizard was astounding with his power. The man was afraid of nothing, if sometimes a bit careless. Bravery was a double-edged sword sometimes, and most certainly the strongest trademark of a student sorted into the house of lions.

Helga Hufflepuff was almost loyal to a fault. Even during the falling-out between Slytherin and the others, she still held him in high regard. She believed he was most certainly entitled to his own opinion, after all. She also believed in harmony and trying to work together. What better place to learn that skill than with the study of Herbology? Loyalty and hard work were the trademarks of a student sorted into Helga's house, after all.

It had been Paneia's idea, and one summer the school found itself gifted with a magnificent set of greenhouses. The founders were astounded by the anonymous magical gift.

On this day, however, it was truly all business. It was likely the last time Ninesto would visit the now famous school. The Room of Requirement had truly lived up to its name thus far, having a peculiar state known as "The room of hidden things". It was into this state Ninesto wandered, and he wasted no time stowing the powerful temporal displacement device where it should not be disturbed until the time was right. A date several centuries into the future. Yet, it seemed critical the device be hidden at this point in time, rather than the day it should be found, such would be the case with a number of other parts. His business done, he spirited himself away, back to the front gates of the great castle, and giving it one last bow, he vanished to his next destination.

Sunday, August 13, 2006, Montreal QC -
Park Jean Drapeau was already crawling with people, even though the sun had yet to make an appearance. Today would mark the end of the twelfth edition of the "Warped" tour, which featured over seventy musical acts.

Ninesto had no interest in the event taking part there. The magic was strong in this particular area, just like at Hogwarts, and he knew why. The bands of natural energy-lea lines-or magic-crossed themselves at least five times in this location, creating a strong field, known as a lea node, or nexus. It was in fact a strong lea node, considering the multiple crossings. A most ideal location to hide such a powerful artefact. The package he carried with him was best described as a long cylinder, about a two feet long, and eight inches round.

As Ninesto set the cylinder in the ground, a large motor coach rolled to a stop a short distance away. It was followed by several other vehicles-he was familiar with automobiles and futuristic transportation. The arrival did not disturb his work however, as the occupants would never see him under numerous disguise charms. They might have trouble with their electric and electronic devices for a time, or at worst they would fail completely and require replacement. Ninesto couldn't be concerned about that, however. He had a great number of places to visit, and the discomfort of a few could not be given quarter. Time was of the essence.
"Hey! What're you doing back here?!" Ninesto cursed silently to himself. Surely he'd applied all of his disguises, had he not?
"Are you deaf?!" The stranger demanded, and Ninesto stood to take in the speaker. Definitely shorter than he was-although most people were after all, considering Ninesto stood at nearly seven feet. Most of his peers were vertically gifted, after all.
"Matt? What's going on?" came a shout from the motor coach. Another individual framed the doorway, and for a brief moment, Ninesto thought they were brothers. Both had black hair that curtained their faces, and dressed similar. Sleeveless shirts, long shorts, and sneakers-yes, that's what the modern society here was calling them.

A quick scan of both minds determined them to be non-magical. A simple secrecy charm would do, then. Perhaps a seed as well. The boy would come tonight, and this man could help. Matt, was it? Yes, he would do just fine, along with his friend.
"I do not intend harm toward you," spoke Ninesto, "You will remember neither me nor what I have done here, until you are before the one who will visit tonight."
"What?" questioned Matt… but his question fell upon the empty space from which the tall man vanished. "What the fuck?!"

May 17, 1914, Liverpool, England -
His mind still on the dark-haired young man who had just accosted him, Ninesto was much more careful in the application of his stealth charms this time. He hoped the boy would be transmitted to this particular date, but all indications were, that would not happen. A date in 1950 was more likely. By that point, the current target might not even exist! That would never do.

It had taken little effort for Ninesto and a few fellow practitioners to obtain structural details of the current target, the steamship Aquitania, who currently rested in dry dock. As the time stream currently played out, the ship would not make it through the upcoming war. Perhaps a little luck might help.

Ninesto wasted little time finding the desired location aboard the magnificent ship: a large machinery compartment which contained the steering engine. The medium-sized box he brought with him would be invaluable to the boy, and it was imperative the great ship survive to deliver her package to him. The box was stowed against a bulkhead and disguised against prying eyes. Only the wizard whom it was meant for would ever find it. Once done, he patted the wall of the ship almost affectionately. "Make sure he gets it, will you?" He vanished.

It is debatable what exactly was at play as Ninesto spoke those words, but it was as if the great ship heard it, as if it had been a command. The package simply vanished, absorbed into the very iron she was made of. She would wait thirty-six years for her magical owner. To her, they would be thirty-six relatively uneventful years, at least for a ship. All the same, she was a happy ship, revered by all who sailed on her, remembered for unflappable, reliable service. She would steam over three million miles, and transport over a million people during peace and strife.

June, 505 AD, Camelot, England -
Another truly magical place, although not many knew just by how much. The legendary castle also stood on a ley node, just like Hogwarts. Yet, the inhabitants knew nothing about it. Ninesto could pick up strong magical signatures from a few of the castle's occupants. Only one of them knew what they actually were.

Ninesto decided that, since the time of arrival was crystal clear, the security precautions around the package could be relaxed. It was simply set beside the castle gates, with a disillusionment charm applied. After touching the façade of the great castle, Ninesto again popped away.

April 5, 1912, Southampton, England -
Another ship. Another ship who would become well known, although for very different reasons than the Aquitania. The others had questioned him about why he would put one of the artefacts on a doomed ship, yet, Ninesto stood by the idea. It would be a sort of test. The Time Displacement Device could most certainly work without it, with a barely-registered loss of power. In fact, well over three times the number of artefacts were hidden than what was actually needed. The council had decided ALL the artefacts would be hidden, and it would ensure only one truly meant to wield such power would find enough of the artefacts to make it function as designed.

So, Ninesto then stood in the steering engine room of the Titanic, who would set sail for her destiny five days from then. He again trusted the estimations from the time stream-the boy would pick up the package most likely before the ship ever left port. If not, he would be slightly tested, that was for sure. If the boy had a clever side to him, perhaps the outcome might be changed…

oOo

The arrivals and departures carried on for the next eight hours, as dozens of powerful artefacts were hidden across temporal planes and times.

Spring, 1001, Narnia -
This land was strange. Ninesto had visited the magical land on several occasions, simply because of the 'unique' properties. Contrary to the typical makeup of a human world, this world had very rigid boundaries. It was possible to quite literally fall off the edge of the world here.

The four rulers of the land were all very young, and from the amount of information he could gather, they too were actually foreigners. Yet, they were fair and just, exactly the type of rule needed for such a diverse land.

Once again, however, there was no time for sentimental thoughts. There was a reason he was there, and as he found the clearing he had in mind, he connected with a dryad-one of the tree-folk. The young wizard would need a bit of help here, and at the same time, they could keep the object-another cylinder-well hidden from those it was not meant for. It was the last package, and with that, he could return home, and help mount some sort of defence against the great threat that approached, estimated to be only hours away.
"I must ask how you come to be in Narnia, son of Adam." Ninesto cursed himself again. Surely, he had placed his concealment charms, had he not? He turned around, and came face to face with the largest lion he had ever seen. "Aslan?"
"Yes. But I must ask again, you did you come to be here?"
"I have sought to protect ancient artefacts from ones who will use it to do terrible things. The trees have agreed to keep it safe until the chosen one should appear and retrieve it."
"This is most certainly not appropriate, son of Adam."
"I am no son of Adam, Aslan. My name is Ninesto, a high councillor of magic, and I am acting out of most dire circumstances."
"Forgive me, ancestor of magic," spoke the great lion, dipping his head briefly, as he at once realized just who it was.
"You equally have my respect, great lion. I have heard much about you, although done at a distance. You must understand our desire not to be seen or known of."
"Of course. It is best not to meddle unless absolutely necessary. I know that course far too well. I do have to ask, councillor, who is this chosen one?"
"Harry Potter."

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Now that I have a better direction for the story, I decided to open up with somewhat of a clue as to what Harry's getting himself into. Of course, he doesn't know that, at least not yet... And poor Matt... has no clue what's about to happen to him! *smirks* Don't 'ya just love meddling wizards?

NEXT CHAPTER: 1 - A PLOT FOILED
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Houston, we have a problem...

2009-11-01T14:23:44Z

Err... well... more like, I have a problem with "Temporal Boundary Invasions". The concept of jumping through dimensions/times is certainly NOT the issue. The "Children of the Corn" universe, on the other hand, most certainly IS. I most certainly do watch the traffic and so on, and with that I'm able to gauge whether something works or not...

As it stands, I lose a good chunk of my readers after chapter 5, and that of course is where we make our first incursion into the CotC universe. So, I'm going to rework the story starting from chapter 5 onward. I've actually received a couple of reviews saying the CotC universe was ruining the story, and I have to agree with that, as the traffic does indicate.

Being the author of this piece, I do reserve the right to make changes, and at this point, that's what I've decided to do. The CotC incursion has to go. Those of you who liked Malachai, sorry about that. It looked like a good idea at the time.

That means, with FF.net, I will end up reposting chapters 1 - 4, with a few changes to reflect the new... err.. first universe Harry will encounter. I'm already doing the leg-work for it, and I hope it will have a better impact than what was posted. Those of you who are following TBI, I hope you will stay tuned. With my postings here, I will likely delete the chapter postings following chapter 4, and make edits to the earlier chapters as necessary.

Now... as far as the new 'universe' is concerned, let me draw out a few details...

Voldemort has won. He is in control of magical Britain, as well as Europe, and North American wizarding nations. His reach is pushing into Asia and Oceana, although he has not asserted full control in those areas just yet. Most of the people Harry knew are long gone, or in Azkaban. The Muggle world is for the most part oblivious, although there have been many incidents--unexplained deaths and disappearances, all of course very much related to Death Eater activity.

The few members of the light have long since abandoned any ideas of attempting to fight back. The magic world in general is either dark-aligned witches & wizards, or those who keep their heads down & attempt to have a sembelance of a normal life. No Muggle-born witch or wizard is allowed to learn magic. Many end up in Azkaban, charged with having 'stolen' magic. Death Eaters at Hogwarts have access to the 'Magical Child Registry', and any child appearing on the list who did not have at least one magical parent was added to the list of children to be interrogated by the Muggle-born registration commission.

Many of the things that started up in August of 1997 are still in place 9 years after the fact, including the taboo curse placed on Voldemort's name.

When Harry arrives in this universe, of course, he will be oblivious to these facts, much like he was in the dark about things when he arrived in the CotC universe. I'm also stealing a page from "Canadian Intervention", involving a Muggle rock band >:D The new Part I banner which appears below should give you all a clue... I'll say no more than that. Actually, I'll probably be borrowing a few items from "Canadian Intervention", although nothing too major. Lots of bits I have used in TBI up to this point will be kept, however, just having to rework it to new characters/location and so on. I should also mention, Frankie and Gerard will be making a cameo appearance at the beginning... Frankie fans rejoice!

Most certainly, there will be a point to Harry being there, and not just so he can meet up with a Muggle rock band... as cool as that might be. Do remember from Chapter 17, that prophecy will be in force. I just need to find a new seer that will reveal it--Trelawney just isn't right for that one. Some input on that one would certainly be welcome!

From a writer's standpoint, there are definitely REASONS Harry ends up in the places he does. At the beginning, Harry doesn't understand the mechanics of that. Eventually, however, he most certainly WILL. And he'll need to. I won't say more than that, other than to buckle up...

"it's gonna be a bumpy ride!" - miniature talking head assisting Ernie on the Knight Bus, movie version.

Writer's Block: Mirror, mirror

2009-09-28T21:54:19Z

Would I walk under a ladder? Um, well, not purposely, no, but I definitely wouldn't avoid it. A black cat? *laughs* my best friend has a black cat, and he adores me almost as much as my friend. So no, not superstitious in that way. Not really a superstitious person, over all, although when I was younger, I used to be afraid of "Friday the 13th". That would be the only thing, and as I said, it was years ago.

If you broke a mirror, would you worry about bad luck even if you're not superstitious? Would you walk under a ladder or cross a black cat's path on a dare? Is there anything you're superstitious about?

View 968 Answers

"Fate Twice Defied" - Chapter 25 - End Game

2009-09-28T10:01:39Z

All right. It's been a while since I've posted anything new for this story, and of course, it's because I've been working on a new title. Since I'm in between parts to that story, I thought I'd revisit this one, and begin to wrap it up. So, here comes chapter 25. I only have the epilogue left.

Title: Fate Twice Defied
Chapter Title: 25 - End Game
Fandoms: Harry Potter/T: Sarah Connor Chronicles
Pairing: Harry Potter/John Connor
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~3,913
Warning(s): Violence, coarse language.
Summary: The summer following 5th year, Harry Potter decides to start looking out for No. 1, and that included a change of scenery. Meeting another boy with similar problems, was NOT the idea. xover with Sarah Connor Chronicles. SLASH! eventual HarryxJohn
Disclaimer: See first chapter
Chapter Summary: Fall-out from the final confrontation with Voldemort; The machines finally go too far in John's universe, having far-reaching consequences…

25: END GAME

It took very little time for news to spread throughout the school, and it rapidly became a festival-like atmosphere, as the displaced population celebrated the downfall of the worst dark wizard since Grindelwald.

Harry, however, did not stick around for the celebrations. It was as if he had up and vanished. He used the floo to travel to the headmaster's office back at the real school, under cover of his invisibility cloak. The castle had certainly become busy, but he had no difficulty avoiding the traffic in the corridors, making his way to the one place he would be assured privacy. The one place that, at this point, only he could get into. The question was, with his nemesis gone, could he still do it? Standing in front of the 'broken' sink in the 2nd floor girls' washroom, he commanded it to open, and was not disappointed, as the sinks separated, revealing the entrance to the Chamber of Secrets. He made his way into the chamber, his mind turning over the past few hours' events.

Perhaps he was being a bit selfish, or childish, yet, at the present, he had no desire to deal with the pandemonium resulting from Voldemort's end. Yet, he still felt betrayed at the hand of his mentor. The old man had once again manipulated him horribly. In a way, he had manipulated Snape equally, and for much longer. Perhaps that was another reason the potions master was so bitter-having to answer to not one, but two masters.

The larger question was, 'what now?' Sure, Voldemort was gone. Yet, his Death Eaters were still out there, even with a large contingent of them on under arrest-at least that's what Harry hoped was going on. He hadn't waited around in the Great Hall to observe what happened to them. So what would prevent those still at large from exacting revenge for the death of their master? What was to prevent them from pushing ahead with Voldemort's agenda?

In the end, it would mean some major changes for Wizarding Britain. Travis was absolutely right, their world needed radical change if it were to survive in better shape than being a dark lord breeding ground. That led to another thought: Fudge. What had become of him? Was he still alive, after the Death Eaters stormed the ministry?

Harry realized at this point, the fight was far from over. Even though Voldemort was gone, there was so much yet to do. He hadn't even given much thought to the machines, and their threat. How could he stop their attacks? It would mean a trip back to John's world, that was for certain.

He climbed up on top of the massive bust where he had slain the basilisk in his second year, and sat down, letting his legs dangle over the edge. The beast still lay half-submerged in the pool, although it had been well butchered at this point, Severus and Travis having harvested most of its usable parts. 'I just wish this would all be over,' he thought silently to himself.

oOo

It had been several years since the machines had last attempted to penetrate the universe in which John, his friends, and his mother had fled to. Yet, it appeared as though their previous incursion had little effect. So, on this particular day, SkyNET was ready to make another attempt. A larger contingent had been assembled, and now stood ready to travel through a much larger time displacement device. Two Harvesters, each packed with nearly a hundred T-one thousand's, and twelve hunter-killers would be dispatched. One harvester and half the hunter-killers would be sent to the island, while the rest of the contingent would be sent to Scotland, to deal with the original Hogwarts. Only recently had SkyNET actually found the castle, and determined to eliminate it in the past as well.

Just as the hazy sun rose in the east, the time-displacement device was activated, and the large attack contingent was enveloped in it. The result was nothing short of catastrophic, as the device erupted into a cataclysmic explosion.

SkyNET, of course, realized something had gone terribly wrong, but had little time to contemplate the reason, as the massive computer was instantly obliterated. In fact, every intelligent life form, natural and artificial, was within moments snuffed from existence, as the very fabric of time and space was torn quite spectacularly.

oOo

Harry opened his eyes, and realized he had dozed off, still atop the massive bust in the Chamber of Secrets. How long had he been asleep? More important, what had woke him up? A feeling of dread was pooling in the pit of his stomach-something had happened, or was about to happen… something he wasn't going to like. "John," he breathed, and grasped the small pendant around his neck. "Mortality", he whispered, and was whisked away with a hook about the naval.

He fell to the floor at his bed in the dormitory, and was immediately accosted by several people.
"Harry! Where have you been?" Hermione demanded, "You've had us all worried to death!"
"John? Where's John?" Harry questioned, ignoring Hermione's demands.
"I'm here, why? What's wrong?" John offered Harry a hand, helping him to his feet.
"Just… something's wrong, I don't know what… but something… I can feel it."
"You have to be more specific… and where were you?" Hermione persisted.
"I just… had to get away for a time," Harry answered.
"It was most unwise for you to…" Cameron started, but his voice faded, much as he did, until he completely vanished. Harry stared at the spot where the machine had stood, confused, then horrified. "NO!" He exploded, wrapping his mate in a death grip, as it dawned on him what was happening.
"Harry… what?" John demanded, trying to calm him.
"You… it he… NO! I can't lose you too!"
"I promise I'm not going anywhere."
"Harry? Guys, Marcus just vanished," Seamus announced, stepping into the dormitory, "So did two of those machine things."

Hermione understood the implication instantly. "John's universe… it's being reset."
"What does that mean?" questioned Ron, trying to offer Harry support the best way he could.
"It means the timeline's being forced back to the way it's supposed to be."
"How long… how long do I have?" John questioned, his voice barely a whisper.
"It could be a few minutes, a couple of hours, for all I know," answered Hermione. Just then, Minerva stepped into the room. "One of the machines has just vanished from the Great Hall," she announced.
"We know, professor," said Hermione.
"I can't… I can't do this," said Harry, feeling the tears welling up in his eyes. The aged professor also understood what was happening-after all, it was she who gave Hermione the reading materials regarding time travel in the first place.
"You two had planned on bonding, did you not?"
"How-of course," answered Harry, removing his glasses, rubbing his eyes on the sleeve of his shirt.
"Oh! Of course!" It dawned on Hermione exactly what the professor was getting at. "Magically bonding yourselves to each other!"
"How?" questioned John, "I… I don't want to die either!"
"Can you do it, professor?"
"Both of you, hold out your left hands," Minerva instructed. Both Harry and John held out their hands. "Diffindo," she spoke, gesturing with her wand, first at Harry's, then at John's. A gash appeared on both hands. "Separate, and join them together."
"Right," said Harry, as they grasped hands tightly, causing the blood to ooze out from between them.
"Harry James Potter… do you bond your soul to John Connor, from this day onward?" questioned Minerva, gesturing with her wand. A swirl of red and gold magic began to swirl around their hands.
"I do," answered Harry.
"And do you, John Connor, bond your soul to Harry James Potter, from this day onward?"
"I do…" but his voice became a whisper, as he began to fade. The last thing Harry remembered, was a searing pain traveling up his hand, to his heart, and a horrible scream that was his own.

oOo

"This is most improper! You know the rules!" Harry heard a voice exclaim.
"Yet, the boy mustn't suffer another loss of this caliber!" came a second voice.
"And yet we can't just bend the rules on the whim of some little boy who can't take a bit of pain! The adage speaking, 'what does not kill will only make one stronger'," came a third voice.
"NO! This will kill him, I see it in his thoughts," came the second speaker.
"Then perhaps the boy is not as strong as we had hoped he would be," said the third. Did he dare open his eyes? Harry knew he rested on something solid. 'Wood,' he thought, while the argument continued.

They were right. If he lost John… there was no way he would ever be able to continue. Cedric was bad enough. He at last dared open his eyes. Indeed, it was a wood floor, but it seemed to go on forever, a dense fog masking everything else around him.
"Behold, the boy wakes," came a fourth voice. He still couldn't see anyone, and he felt his person. Naked? Defenseless? What did they want? He instantly found himself clothed again, in a dark robe.
"Who… where am I?" Harry at last managed.
"Where are you? Not even we know for sure," came the second voice, definitely a female. She sounded familiar, but yet, he couldn't place from where.
"A most noble gesture toward Mr. Connor, young Harry," spoke a fifth voice.
"I would do anything to protect him."
"So it would seem, even daring to defy the very fabric of time and space itself," came the second voice.
"Yet, surely you must understand the process that has occurred, Mr. Potter?" questioned the first voice.
"Hermione told me, yeah, I know… but…"
"What you are asking is impossible!" the first voice carried on, "The damage done to the realm from which Mr. Connor comes… it is most disturbing the level of damage."
"But… it wasn't my fault-"
"No, of course it wasn't, boy," the fifth voice answered, with a bit of a chuckle, "For the most part you know what not to meddle with, save for this particular incident."
"But you know why! I just can't-I can't live without him," said Harry, his voice barely even. He was shaking like a leaf at this point, knowing all too well he was fighting for his mate's life.
"I do remind the others here, the boy has already lost a love, a most unfortunate tragedy."
"Yet, that was ordained to happen, such are the rules we operate by," pointed out the first voice, cracking like a whip, "What the boy asks is for something which should never have been allowed to happen in the first place!"
"So you would… if you could… just take it all back? Snatch away one of the things that… that helped me get rid of Voldemort? To… to maybe give my world a chance?" Harry shot back, "Who do you think you are anyway?" He was starting to lose it at this point. How dare they!
"You know not who we are, Mr. Potter," came the third voice, "But do realize, we hold far more power than you could ever imagine."
"Why… what are you?"
"We are temporal guardians," came the second voice, explaining calmly, "We take action when things get too far out of sorts, such as what happened in Mr. Connor's realm. Without decisive action, his world would have collapsed in most spectacular fashion, potentially doing damage to your own as well."
"But… can't you just… just make an exception?"
"Do you think you're the first person to make such a request, Harry?" spoke the third voice, "How many realms do you think there are?"
"I don't know, hundreds, maybe?" The second voice let out a chuckle, saying, "It is impossible for you to comprehend, Harry. But requests such as yours are quite common. Now, as far as the circumstances regarding your request, that is another story."
"No, I don't think it is," came the first voice, "Mortal realms playing about with the very fabric of time and space? They must deal with the consequences, it is the simple truth."
"No, nothing is ever that simple, and you know it," hissed the second voice, "I do believe Harry has suffered enough, given what we have seen of his world. He has prevented the nightmare of Mr. Connor's world from penetrating his own. Do you not see? It would have been a repeat, and we would be cleaning up the messes from two realms, not just one! I do believe we might owe Harry a favour here."
"I have to concur with that," came the fifth voice, "Sometimes exceptions must be made, and I daresay, this is one of those times."
"Reluctantly, I too, agree," came the forth voice, also female, "Yet, Mr. Potter must understand there may be consequences to us permitting such a request. Are you willing to accept those consequences?"
"I'll do anything," answered Harry.
"Then, so mote it be," cried the unseen voices. Harry was momentarily blinded by a brilliant flash of white light.

The next thing Harry realized, he was staring at the ceiling of the dormitory, with several people looking over him.
"I've sent for Madam Pomfrey," said Minerva, seeing Harry regaining consciousness.
"Where's John?" At the speaking of those words, there was a loud CRACK, and the boy in question appeared by the door. "Harry?" he exclaimed, rushing to his side.
"I'm fine… fine… everything's gonna be okay now," Harry spoke, sitting up, allowing himself to be swallowed up in a tight hug. Then he thought of something. "Sirius. Where's Sirius?"
"I'll get him," Ron offered, making a quick exit from the dormitory.
"I… I want to at least say good bye," Harry managed.
"And my mom! She-she's gonna disappear too, right?" questioned John. Harry nodded slowly. 'Consequences', he realized, while Minerva simply dispatched her Patronus.
"If your mother and uncle are still with us, they'll meet us in the library, as will Sirius."

Stepping into said library, they found Sirius and Remus already there, as was Sarah. Derek was nowhere to be seen, and Sarah's unsettled appearance told John and Harry all they needed to know.
"Mom… you… you already know… what's happening?" John managed, his turn to become unsettled.
"I know John."
"The machines are gone now, Ms. Connor. Your world's in the process of being set back to rights."
"By how far?"
"Before the machines ever became a factor, I would assume, Ms. Connor," spoke Remus. He too, looked quite upset. It appeared the news had traveled quickly.
"Then I guess I have nothing to fear, knowing your future will be better than I could have imagined," spoke Sarah. Even knowing she was about to die seemed not to upset her. It was clear everything revolved around her son, even now.
"Ms. Connor. I promised I would look after your son, and I still mean it. He means everything to me. It took me a lot to guarantee his survival. I would give my life if that means he would live."
"And I believe you, Harry," spoke Sarah, wrapping both boys in a tight hug. "Thank you. John, I will always love you."
"I… know that, mom. I know." He felt the weight and touch of her grasp fade, as his mother vanished.
"I guess it's my turn, pup," spoke Sirius.
"At least… this time I can say good bye, properly," said Harry, as they too, embraced.
"You've already executed my will here. Use your inheritance wisely. The world is your oyster now, don't waste away on the count of me, or I'll hex your arse off when we next meet."
"I promise I will," said Harry, quietly.
"Good bye, Harry. And Moony, take care of him for me."
"I will, Padfoot," said Remus, his voice broken as he choked back tears. It hurt him as much as it did Harry, as they were losing him for the second time.
"Good bye… Sirius," spoke Harry, his voice barely a whisper, as his godfather again vanished slowly to nothing.

"Harry… I had wondered where you got to." Harry looked up from his tight embrace with John, to see Albus striding into the room. "What has happened?"
"You're the last person… in the world I wish to speak to right now," Harry ground out.
"Whether you wish to hear it or not, there are things I must say to you. Hindsight is twenty-twenty. I know you know that, Harry," spoke Albus, taking a seat at the conference table and conjuring up a cup of tea. He took a sip, then said, "If there had been any other way of us handling the situation of only a few hours ago, I would have gladly done so. Given that, a solution presented itself, and in the end, we did get the result we wanted. What YOU wanted as much as the rest of us, and you have to agree on that point."
"At the cost of my sanity, sir?! To push me into an impossible situation? To scare the fuck out of my partner? What did that gain? My trust?!" Harry let out a laugh, but by no means was he amused. "Look at me! I just lost my godfather-AGAIN! I've been through HELL today! Just maybe… maybe I should have… AAAAAAH!" He let out a roar, sending a blast from his wand that destroyed a desk over by the wall, making everyone flinch.
"Harry. Getting angry isn't going to solve anything," spoke Remus, quietly, taking a seat at the table as well, "Just… come take a seat."
"Come on, let's," John coaxed, pulling Harry over to a seat. Sighing, the boy agreed.
"Better to try and talk about this with some maturity," said Remus, "Destroying the library will get us nowhere."
"I would rather release my anger on someONE, rather than someTHING… but since I cant…" Harry glared at Albus, the anger still coming off the boy in waves. "I'll need to speak to a mind healer. Even better, I think I'll need some time away. My mate and I, just the two of us."
"It would do us some good, Harry," said John, "Now that both of our threats are gone."
"And how did this happen?" questioned Albus. Harry again gave the headmaster a dark look, saying, "The universe reset itself. Or, more like, the temporal guardians stepped in. So they said, anyway."
"Temporal guardians? Indeed, truly powerful entities. Where did you encounter them, Harry?" questioned Albus.
"I don't know where we were… but… before John disappeared, we… we bonded. I argued with them."
"You fought for me?" questioned John.
"For your life," answered Harry, his voice again barely above a whisper, "It was either that, or forfeit my own. My life's not worth it without you."
"Bullshit it ain't!" John crackled, "Dude, you've got all these people here who care for you! How can you say that?"
"I second that, Harry," spoke Hermione, "You can't truly mean that."
"What would you do… if you lost Ron?" Harry shot back, weakly, "Could you go on without him?"
"I… I…"
"I make my point."
"Harry. Promise me something," said John, looking Harry in the eye, "No matter what happens. You will not just give up, just because I'm gone. Dude, you don't know how much it means knowing what you did for me. But that also means you can't just throw your life away! We all have a chance now… a chance for a better life, right? Voldemort's gone, and so is SkyNET, right?"
"I guess."
"Then promise me. Honour your godfather and my mom and Derek and Marcus. They would want us to be happy. So promise me to make the best of it. Because I promise, no matter what, I'll make the best of mine, for as long as you are in my life, and long after. I promise you on whatever magic has touched my soul, and on everything holy." To the surprise of all present, a faint, golden swirl of magic wafted from John's chest, to hover above Harry's head.
"Impossible!" Albus gasped, shock covering the aged wizard's face. Harry sat there, equally stunned. "S-s-so mote it be," he finally managed, and the energy burrowed itself inside of him.
"Merlin's beard!" spoke Remus, "I can't believe what I've just witnessed."
"Neither can I," said Harry, "But… I… I accept his point. I love you, John," he spoke, again meeting his mate's eyes.
"And I love you too, Harry."
"Ah, professor," said Bill, stepping into the room and up to the conference table, Travis in tow. "What's happened?"
"The machines are gone," said Harry, a little more confidently.
"How? When?"
"Temporal guardians intervened."
"So I'm the only person left from my world," said John, "Harry did it somehow… and I'm still here."
"Oh," spoke Travis, as the gravity was not lost on him. "You're okay, Harry?"
"It'll get better. At least this time… I was able to say good bye."
"And do remember, Harry, you will see him again," spoke Albus, "He waits for you, I am almost certain."
"I know so, professor," answered Harry, although his eyes hardened again, facing the headmaster. It was clear he was still beyond angry at the aged wizard.
"So now the real work begins," said Travis, "Without Voldemort, we can actually start making some changes."
"This is very true, Mr. Fisher," said Albus, "And it will be those like yourself who will lead those changes."
"Yeah, a world that can be accepted at face value," spoke Harry, "A world without manipulations happening behind the scenes, moving people about like they were chess pieces. That's how I feel right now."
"And again, I'm sorry it worked out such as it did. But do ask yourself, Harry, could it have been done another way? That is the thought I leave you with, as I do believe I will be needed back in my office." The headmaster rose, then spoke, "I believe you will understand the reasoning behind my actions one day, Harry, and that perhaps then you will be able to forgive me." With that, the headmaster strode from the room.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: "Rocks fall, everyone dies…" Not. Anyway, a rather short chapter here, perhaps a little abrupt, but I have presented the possibility of this sort of thing happening in previous chapters (the 'universe' resetting itself, or whatever).

As far as this story goes, I'm just about out of steam with regards to the plot. I do have a couple of ideas to wrap things up, but again, don't expect too much more. It's just about done. Once again, sorry this feels a bit rushed, but I do want to be done with this, and not just leave it as a WIP, like several of my pieces are.

John getting a magical reaction from inside him? No, he's not becoming a wizard or anything like it. That was just a fluke, sort of thing. His bond with Harry, perhaps? But definitely not a 'Muggle-becomes-wizard', such as what's happening in my more recent fiction.

Previous Chapter: 24 - The Conseuqences of Plan "B"
Next Chapter: EPILOGUE
Table Of Contents

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter 4 - When 'Potter' became 'Harry'

2009-09-12T14:20:48Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: 4 - When 'Potter' became 'Harry'
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~3,486
Warning(s): None.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

IV: THE TAMING OF SEVERUS SNAPE
OR, WHEN 'POTTER' BECAME 'HARRY'

On July 6, Harry was a ball of emotions. He had written Snape two days before, and had finally received a short reply, stating, "11 am, at your relatives. Do not make me wait."

Harry had been sure to warn his aunt he was expecting a teacher, and any rude behaviour would have consequences… he could not afford to have this potential 'olive branch' screw up in any way shape or form.

Fortunately, when 11 am rolled around, Harry was waiting on the front step, as Snape appeared from under an invisibility cloak.
"Professor," said Harry.
"Potter… what in blazes do you-"
"Sir… really, I have someone who wants to see you. And there's some things I need to say-"
"I don't have all day to listen to your whining about-"
"If you will just… do you want to speak to my mum or not?" Harry blurted. Snape froze. "What did you say?"
"I have… I have a portrait of her… just come on, I'll show you." Harry was perhaps a little too enthusiastic, and the snarky potions professor sneered at the behaviour, but nonetheless, he was curious.
"Lead on, Potter. This had better not be a waste of my time, I was in the middle of brewing."

Less than a minute later, teacher and student were in Harry's room. Snape arched an eyebrow at the room, recognizing at once it had been modified magically. His eyes then fell on the extra trunk resting against the wall, alongside his normal school trunk. Harry was already pointing his wand at said trunk. "Addendum, Severus Snape." Like before, the lid glowed a green shade for a moment. This once again had Snape baffled. What was the brat playing at?
"This way, sir," said Harry, and he climbed into the trunk.
"Where did you manage to procure such a trunk, Potter?"
"Diagon Alley, of course," said Harry, as he stepped off the ladder, "Now that you're keyed to the wards, you can apparate in and out. I think that says something, does it not?"
"Indeed, Harry." Severus wheeled to meet green eyes belonging to someone he thought he would never see again. A strangled gasp escaped from the professor's mouth, as he was struck dumb for a moment.
"How did you get… Merlin's balls!"
"Professor, I wasn't joking. Now, I know you two might have some catching up to do, so I'll be… well, working in another part of the flat, so… take all the time you need. Oh, and if you need anything, call on Kreacher, he's around somewhere." Snape was too bewildered to answer. He simply stood there, seemingly mesmerized by the portrait before him.

About a half hour later, Harry heard a soft POP from the common room. Voices, and a few moments later, Cedric appeared. "How'd he take it?"
"Froze. I think he was floored when he realized I wasn't making it up. They're still talking?"
"Yeah. I actually saw Snape laugh. D'you know how eerie that is?"
"Tell me about it," said Harry, "But… I think he's needed this. All the dragon shit he's had to put up with, he's more than earned it. If I can, I'm gonna get the portrait copied somehow, so Lily can visit him. Might make a nice Christmas gift, I think."
"Lunch is about ready, master Harry." Both teens turned to see Kreacher standing in the doorway. "Will master Snape be staying as well?"
"Ask him… he's welcome, of course," said Harry, "Although it won't surprise me if he declines… never stayed for meals at Grimmauld Place." Kreacher gave a light bow, then vanished with a gentle POP. His demeanour was changing rapidly, and Harry knew the environment had something to do with it, along with the kindness Harry showed him.

The flat was decorated in light woods, with thick carpet in the rooms. Large windows were charmed to reflect the outdoors as it would be at that time of the day, including the current weather. Most of the furniture was of dark woods, such as cherry or mahogany, with leather coverings. Harry had went all out the first time around, so there was no reason he couldn't do it again.

Entering the common room, they found Snape still speaking in soft tones with Lily. Harry cleared his throat, and the professor turned around. "We're having lunch, sir. You're welcome to join us. I can bring the portrait into the dining room." Snape only nodded, so Harry gestured with his hand, floating the portrait off the wall. Snape watched with rapt fascination, as it was guided into the dining room. "There. Now come have lunch with us… I know you're dying to know how I just did that, right?" he couldn't help but let a smirk come across his face.
"Indeed, Potter," said Snape. With that, the three of them stepped into the dining room, taking seats at the table. Kreacher appeared bringing a large tureen of chicken noodle soup, a platter of sandwiches, and crackers. A pitcher of pumpkin juice was already on the table. The three of them wasted no time accepting generous helpings of soup.

"Do tell," Snape finally began, "Where you have learned to cast wandlessly."
"I knew you'd want to know that one," Harry grinned, "But I have to start at the beginning. First off. I know we don't get along well, but sir, thanks. I know the vow you've taken with Dumbledore, and I mean it, I appreciate having you watch over me."
"How? How do you know about that?"
"Because of something which will happen about eleven years from now. Or did, because I lived through it. Professor, I came back. I don't know how, but… I wanted to end it and I stepped through the veil at the department of mysteries and I came back! Somehow I wasn't allowed to die!" Harry suddenly found himself overwhelmed, as memories crowded his mind. He took a deep breath, and pushed them back into their proper places.

All the while, he could feel the professor pushing with his own mind, so he looked up and locked eyes, giving Snape a nod. Snape arched an eyebrow, but pushed ahead with trepidation. Potter had just given him permission to peak into the boy's mind? How did the brat know? Occlumency was a rare art, after all. Yet, the memories he was seeing were organized. This was not the mind of a typical fourteen-going-on-fifteen-year-old student. This was the mind of a strong Occlumens.

The memories he was being shown floored him. Particularly the visions of him killing Dumbledore… that had felt like a bludger to the stomach. What would possess him to do something such as that? Sure, he had done some despicable things as a Death Eater, but he would never dream of committing an act that dark… would he?

Deciding he had seen enough, Snape pulled back out of Harry's mind. The boy was still looking up, unblinking, but had a gentle smile on his face.
"You defeated the Dark Lord?"
"Yes. What would have been, err, eleven days ago, where I came from. When it was all over, I just… didn't want to live anymore. Voldemort took everything that ever meant anything to me. The veil was my only way out, and… it might have been a coward's way, but I took it. Death looked pretty good after everything was said and done."
"You're gonna ask him a wizard's oath, right Harry?" questioned Cedric. Snape, however, was way ahead of him. He drew out his wand, and holding it in front of him, said, "I, Severus Tobias Snape, swear by my magic, to never reveal any of what has been shared here today." A golden thread of magic wafted to hover above Harry's head.
"So mote it be," said Harry, holding his wand in front of him. The thread vanished into him. "Sir, I trust you."
"You do understand, Potter-Harry, I am expected to uphold appearances at Hogwarts," said Snape. Harry nodded, "Yeah, I'm aware. Draco and his cronies… I know he's your godson and so on. But really… I think he needs to understand exactly what he's getting himself into. He was marked the summer before his sixth year."
"Yes, as Lucius is planning," said Snape.
"Couldn't you give him a dose of reality? Show him what it really means to follow Voldemort?"
"Do not use the Dark Lord's name, Harry," said Snape. Harry nodded, remembering the risks.
"Sorry, it's just out of habit… although I should know. In what would have been my seventh year, he put a taboo curse on it. A good number of the Order were caught because of it."
"Has there been any word as to what the Dark Lord is up to?" questioned Cedric. Snape only shook his head.
"I got a vision a couple of days ago. He was questioning Pettigrew about his failure in the grave yard. The rat got a does of the Cruciatus curse."

The conversation was interrupted, when Hedwig flew into the room, to land on the table in front of Harry. She had a letter, as well as a copy of the Daily Prophet. Harry opened the letter first.

Harry,

Dumbledore's trying to convince the government Voldemort still lives. I'm afraid it isn't going well. I remember what you told me about your 'first time around', and this may be an indication it may still proceed in that direction.

On a happier note, I have received notification that I will face the Wizengamot on the charges filed fourteen years ago against me; they intend to use Veritaserum, so it's likely I should have my name cleared then.

Be safe, Harry,
Sirius

"Great," Harry snorted, "Why is it dragon shit somehow finds a way to repeat itself?" He opened up the paper:

IS DUMBLEDORE STILL THE MAN FOR THE JOB?
Pundits say his time has come and gone

After recent comments made by the Supreme Mugwump of the Wizengamot regarding the death of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named some fifteen years ago, his integrity is being called into question. The leader of the Wizengamot and headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry, has gone on record, stating he believes the Dark Lord still exists, although still in shade form, and is attempting to regain his body.

Such an attempt was made at the end of June during the third task of the Tri-Wizard Tournament at the school, so he says. Yet, with no collaborating testimony to confirm this unlikely story, this reporter has to also question the mental stability of the headmaster.

The ministry of magic has not weighed in on the discussion officially, but unofficial word from sources close to the minister do indicate, 'steps are being taken'. Which does beg to question, is Albus Dumbledore's days as head of the Wizengamot numbered?

Your diligent reporter will certainly keep abreast of this story, for it will likely be a news-worthy item for some time.

Rita Skeeter

"Uhg, I'm gonna hex that vile woman into oblivion, I swear!" Harry vowed.
"I thought Hermione had her stuffed in a jar somewhere," noted Cedric.
"Yeah, me too. So that means Umbridge will be teaching at Hogwarts… again."
"We'll just have to drive her from the school, then," said Cedric, "You did have that defence club, right?"
"What sort of defence club?" inquired Snape.
"Well, it was essentially a replacement for Dark Arts Defence. That foul woman wouldn't teach us anything useful, so we resorted to teaching ourselves. Of course, since I was no longer a student and wasn't supposed to be there… I was there in disguise. Still, everyone knew who I was… particularly once I cast my Patronus charm. Professor, please help protect the school this year… that woman's a mean toad who takes sick pleasure out of torturing students."
"And why didn't anyone report such abuses to McGonagall?"
"She virtually RAN the school, professor. She would have sacked anyone who spoke out about it," Harry retorted.
"And the picture becomes a little clearer," Snape understood. His mind was already working in overdrive, thinking of ways to make life difficult for the new Dark Arts Defence professor, should Harry's prediction become true.
"Well, this makes things, a little more complicated," Harry let out a sigh, then brought things back on track. "Professor, there's another reason I asked you here today. It concerns a dead basilisk…"

"Pot-Harry… do you realize how valuable the ingredients from this are?" questioned Snape, fighting very hard to hold his indifferent mask on his face. Inside, he was astounded at the great beast that still lay half-submerged in a pool, deep within the Chamber of Secrets.
"I have somewhat of an idea, sir," answered Harry, "I figured… you'd know more about harvesting it and such. And sir, consider this a gift… I've got more than enough money."
"Indeed," said Snape, inclining his head. He reached into the pockets of his robes, and pulled out a miniaturized pair of dragon hide gloves, which he returned to normal size. He slid them on.
"In the meanwhile… I need some of its fangs. You saw the memory of the Horcruxes?"
"I did. Have you collected any of them?"
"Two, so far. I know where the rest of them are, it's just a matter of making time to collect them. I'll need basilisk venom to destroy them. That, or the sword of Gryffindor, and I strongly doubt professor Dumbledore would let me borrow it, at least not without an explanation."
"You really killed this, Harry?" questioned Cedric. Harry nodded, and gestured to the spot high atop the façade. "Right up there. It got me with a fang, though… without Fawkes, I would've died."
"Most unfortunate the eyes were destroyed," Snape mused, "They would have been worth a fortune by themselves."

By supper time, they had harvested most of the useful parts from the dead snake, and exited the chamber the back way, which led into the Dark Forest. Snape returned to his quarters back at the school, while Harry and Cedric returned to the trunk back at Privet Drive.

Most important, however, Harry had gained yet another ally, although it would not appear that way while he was actually at Hogwarts. Appearances were everything, after all. Still, Snape understood there was an open-door policy in the trunk, so he could visit with Lily any time he wanted to… "If you can put up with a cheeky brat that calls himself her son," he had drawled, tongue-in-cheek. That had gotten the corners of the professor's lips to twitch just a tad.
"Was that an attempt at sarcasm, Potter?"
"Perhaps," Harry smirked, "But I did learn from the best."
"Ah, but a hot-headed Gryffindor such as yourself won't quite understand the subtleties in the art of sarcasm, Potter." Again, the corners of the professor's mouth twitched, fighting the indifferent mask he had firmly in place.

Once supper was over with, Harry decided to tackle the floo connection. He'd asked Snape for permission to floo call his office as a test, which had been granted, although Snape was curious to know how Harry planned on hooking it up. The professor was in for a surprise. Cedric, of course, was hovering over the boy as he worked, watching with fascination, as he conducted the various charms and spells to connect a fireplace up to the floo network.
"Now, of course, I could have set things up for a private network, between just a few places… that sort of thing became common in my future. The main floo network was risky… loads of people were taken that way."
"Taken?"
"Captured."
"Right."
"For now, a regular connection will work, but likely in the future we'll have to change it… now… to connect the floo with the trunk wards… don't want Voldemort to be able to floo in here, right?"
"Err, no."
"Right, that will just about do it, then," said Harry. He'd already purchased a pot of floo powder, which now hung from a bracket at the side of the fireplace. He took a pinch of powder, tossed it into the fire, then called out, "Fire call Hogwarts, Severus Snape's office!" He stuck his head into the green flames, and quickly found himself looking out into the potions master's office.
"You surprise me yet again, Potter," said Snape.
"And you doubted me… oh, the shame of it!" Harry mock-wailed.
"All right, so it works. Be gone, so I can get back to my brewing."
"Good night, professor." Harry pulled his head back out of the flames, and they returned to their usual orange colour.
"Now the big test." Harry this time took a fist full of floo powder, and standing, tossed the powder into the fire, which again roared a brilliant green. "Number twelve, Grimmauld Place!" he called out, then stepped into the green flames.

The trip was every bit as chaotic as the last time he had used the floo-he never did seem to master the subtle art of floo-travel. He was unceremoniously dumped onto the floor of the kitchen.
"Harry! Merlin, where did you from?" questioned Sirius.
"My trunk, of course!"
"You… you have a floo connection to your trunk." Harry nodded vigorously. "My, my, pup, you are wasting no time at all, now, are you?"
"Nope. I helped Snape harvest the basilisk today… I think it was Christmas come early for him-"
"You spent the day with Snevillus?!"
"Sirius, please. I need his help… and… he was pretty decent to me today. I need you guys to try and get along. Please, promise me you'll try." Sirius nodded, then said, "Okay, pup, I promise to do my best."
"It's all I can hope for, right?" Just then, the flames roared green again, and Cedric's face appeared in the flames. "Harry, I gotta go. Dad needs help with something."
"Okay. Good night, Ced."
"'night, Harry. See you in the morning." With that, his face vanished from the flames.
"He's good for you," said Sirius, as Harry pulled up a seat at the table.
"Yeah. The one thing I wished so long I could undo… and I did it. It's like… there was a temporal intervention or something. Either way… I hope we can get bonded someday."
"I'm sure you will. He's been to visit you practically every day now, hasn't he?" Harry nodded. "Just be careful. Don't let him-"
"Sirius. I know. I'm still twenty six in the head remember?"
"True." Both Harry and Sirius looked up, hearing the front door.
"Stay here." Sirius got up, but it was a wasted motion. Albus Dumbledore framed the door to the hallway.
"Harry… how is it you come to be here?" The headmaster looked to be a mixture of emotions, ranging from confusion to slight anger. Harry didn't miss a beat. "Visiting my godfather, of course. Good to see he's finally getting a trial."
"Harry, why are you away from your relatives? Surely you know it's not safe for you to be out and about on your own."
"Professor, if I'm not safe with Sirius, then who can I trust? Surely you can't expect me to sit in my room all summer?"
"Yet, I certainly don't like the idea of you travelling from Surrey to London on your own. Harry, there are those who will want to do you harm, not necessarily just those who side with Voldemort. You do understand that?"
"You mean like Rita Skeeter? I'll deal with her in my own way." He suddenly put a hand to his forehead, a strong feeling of vertigo welling up.
"Does Harry Potter want some tea?" Winky's question sounded like it came through a long hose.
"What?" Even his own voice sounded… weird.
"Harry, are you all right?"
"What's wrong?"
"HARRY?!" It was the last thing he truly comprehended, as everything seemed to warp before his eyes, as if he were apparating somewhere. Yet, he had not. His vision faded to complete blackness, while a tremendous roar filled his ears. Next thing he knew, he was slammed into a hard surface. His world once again faded to black.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: 3 - FLAT TRUNK?
NEXT CHAPTER: 5 - A PARTY CRASHED
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter 3 - Flat Trunk?

2009-09-11T14:01:36Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: 3 - Flat Trunk?
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~6,593
Warning(s): Possible spoilers for books 5, 6, and 7.
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

3: FLAT TRUNK?
OR, IS IT A TRUNK FLAT?

The device was about the size of a quaffle, and very much resembled one of the many small trinkets which seemed to adorn Dumbledore's office. The question was, how did it get here? For the time being, he used a dirty shirt and wrapped the item in it, then placed it in the second compartment of his new trunk. He had breakfast to make, after all.

As he worked at the stove, his thoughts were still stuck on the strange object now stored in his trunk. How had it managed to follow him? Could it be a danger? It certainly wasn't the last time he had dealt with bizarre objects, and he wasn't worried about what it might be. After all, there was something far more dangerous resting in the same compartment. Yet, there had to be a way to determine if it was at least safe to handle, right?

He was brought out of his thoughts, when Vernon stepped into the kitchen. Harry only nodded, and gestured to a cup of coffee already poured for him. He hurriedly filled four plates, then sat at the table.
"And do tell, boy, who invited you to sit with us?" questioned Vernon, with a glare.
"I did, when 'I' paid for the food you're eating this morning out of my own pocket," answered Harry, matter-of-factly. His uncle could not come up with a retort, and so the table fell to silence.

Once he finished, he stood. "I'll be out of the house most of the day again today. More wizard stuff."
"Is this to be the habit throughout the summer, boy?" questioned Vernon, gruffly.
"I dunno, maybe. Look, it's better I'm out of the house, rather than stuck here underfoot," Harry pointed out. Vernon conceded, then stood up himself. It was time for him to leave for work.

Once Petunia and Dudley were out of the kitchen, Harry cleaned up with a few gestures of his hands. The dishes floated themselves to the sink, washed and dried themselves, and put themselves away. He again smirked to himself, watching magic at work. It had been some time since he had actually felt good, felt alive. Just altering a single action, was already creating a butterfly effect. Sure, it was a dangerous game he was playing, but really, things couldn't end up much worse than they had ended up the first time, could they?

Like the day before, planned to spend most of the day in Diagon Alley, this time with his new trunk stowed in his pocket. It certainly made things much easier as far as purchases went, along with the other part of the mission that day. He had taken the time just before leaving, to apply an automatic resizing charm to it, so he wouldn't be having to cast magic each time he needed into it.

This time around, he cast a glamour on himself, so he wouldn't be seen. He had silently kicked himself the previous night, realizing how unwise it had been to be out in the alley without some kind of disguise.

The main objective on this second visit was to see his family vault at Gringotts. He had allowed the day for exactly that, as he knew there would be much to look at. So, just before 11 am, he was on his way down to the vault, courtesy of a bank cart.

Knowing it would be some time, he dismissed the goblin, allowing him to return to the surface. He then re-enlarged his new trunk, and began stuffing various items into the first compartment. He decided the second compartment would be reserved strictly for dark objects, items that were potentially dangerous. He then began collecting several books that had been indispensable the first time around; his mother had been a genius at charms, after all. In fact, there were several books that would be a great use when expanding the room in his trunk.

The first time around, he had created a large flat, with easily a dozen rooms. He had also managed to track down information on how to create a Room of Requirement. The thing was, would Dumbledore allow him to borrow the books this time? He mulled it over, as he tossed yet another advanced charms text into the pile growing in the first compartment. Of course, he reasoned, that particular text also contained some other very useful-albeit very advanced charms. Maybe a letter would be in order...

The most important thing collected was something truly special: a portrait of his parents. They had created it just after finishing school, so they had explained the first time around. It would be nice to at least be able to talk to them again-not that it was that long ago. Toward the end of the war, he had lived in his trunk most of the time, and the portrait had been hung above the fireplace.

Locating said portrait, he wasted no time in waking it. He grinned, as they woke and quickly oriented themselves. "Son?" said James.
"Hi dad," said Harry, still grinning. This was much different than the first time he had woken them. The first time, it was several hours before he could recompose himself enough to even speak to them.
"You've got your inheritance?" questioned Lily, seeming to appraise her son.
"Yeah, mum. There's stuff I have to tell you, though."
"You can't be seventeen yet," said James, "How did you fool the goblins?"
"I didn't, dad," answered Harry, "I'll explain everything properly in a bit... but the goblins let me know yesterday I had access to this vault, and I was a little surprised. So I came back today... there were a few other things I needed."
"So it seems," said Lily, glancing over at the open trunk. "A multi-compartment trunk I assume."
"Yeah, mum, it's got three compartments, one of them being a whole room. I plan to enlarge it significantly."
"How old are you, Harry?" questioned James.
"I turn fifteen at the end of July."
"Well done, a prank worthy of the Marauders, getting in here two years early."
"Dad. As I said, I have a few things to tell you later." Harry continued selecting numerous books from the shelves that lined one wall of the vault.
"You seem to know what you're looking for," Lily noticed, "As if you've done this before."
"Bingo!" said Harry, as he placed an armful of books into the trunk. He then took a breath, and began to explain the events of the original time line, or as he thought of it, 'the first time around'.

"So, you're still living with my sister," Lily assumed, when Harry finished.
"Yeah. Although this summer's shaping up to be quite different than last. It helps that I can do many things now without a wand. I wish I could've done that when I was younger. It would have saved a lot of grief."
"I think I will want a word with my sister," said Lily, icily, "She made terrible fun of Severus, you know."
"I know, Snape shared a pensieve memory or two of you guys. He loved you until he died."
"Really?"
"Honest, mum. Did you know, his Patronus is a doe, like yours?" Lily was surprised by the revelation. "It's true," Harry continued, "The bravest man I've ever met. That reminds me, I need to send him a letter, see if he might like to help me harvest a basilisk."
"A basilisk?!!" Lily was alarmed.
"Oh, it's already dead," said Harry, "I killed it at the end of my second year, saved my best friend's sister." Lily was still shocked at the idea.
"I'll have to tell you about my adventures at Hogwarts another time." He glanced at his watch. "It's time to get back to my aunt's house. I think for now I'll put your portrait in the room in the trunk. We can talk more after supper."

Arriving back at No. 4 Privet Drive, he found his aunt looking out of sorts.
"What's wrong?" questioned Harry, hand inching toward his wand.
"One of YOUR lot is in the back garden," she huffed. Harry glanced out through the solarium, and had to grin. Cedric was waiting for him.
"He won't bite, you know. Come let me introduce you... after all, you'll be seeing a lot of him this summer," Harry grinned.
"Now listen here, Harry... We will not be some..."
"What, I'm not allowed to have friends over? If I'm not allowed to have friends over, then neither is Dudley," Harry said in a low voice, "Trust me, I have ways of enforcing that." Petunia huffed and made a sour face at the threat, then stormed off into the basement. Harry shrugged, then stepped out into the back garden.
"Harry! Where've you been?"
"Gringotts," answered Harry, "C'mon, I have something to show you." He grabbed the older boy by the arm and all but dragged him through the house and up to his room.

Cedric looked around Harry's room, seeming to appraise the set up. "You've enlarged it."
"One of the first things I did when I got back. I mean, normally, this is the smallest bedroom in the house." Harry pulled the trunk out of his pocket, and re-enlarged it. He then opened the third latch. He pulled the lid open, revealing a ladder. He then made a gesture at the bedroom door-he wouldn't want his relatives intruding on them.
"Most impressive!" Cedric praised, as Harry began to climb down. He quickly followed.
"I'm planning to add to it, of course."
"You're not wasting any time, eh, Harry?"
"I can't. Voldemort may not have gotten his body back, but he's still a threat. He will try again, that's a fact. It's just when." A throat clearing behind them caused both boys to turn around.
"Who's this, Harry?" questioned Lily.
"Oh. Mum, dad, this is Cedric Diggory. Cedric, my parents, Lily and James."
"An honour to meet you," said Cedric, inclining his head, "I would shake hands, but that might be a bit difficult."
"Indeed it would!" said James, giving a light laugh, while Lily smiled. She said, "So, you must be the boy who's claimed our son's heart, then." Cedric felt his cheeks get rather warm at that comment. "Guilty as charged."
"It's actually good you're here, Ced," said Harry, "I'll need a bit of help setting up the wards on the trunk."
"You mean to say you don't know how to do it?" questioned James, "I would have thought--"
"Dad, it's not that I don't know how to do it. It's the complication of it, and an extra wand will be a great help. What I have in mind is this..."

By the time they were finished, the sun had long set, the room dimly lit by gas lamps.
"Harry, it's getting late..."
"Stay with me," said Harry, perhaps a little faster than he might have liked.
"Well..." Cedric thought about it, then grinned. "If I might borrow Hedwig, then."
"She won't mind in the least-wait," said Harry, as Cedric began to make for the ladder, "Try and disapparate out of the trunk, let's see if you can still do it now there are wards in place." Cedric nodded, twisted on the spot, and landed flat on his behind. Lily attempted to subdue a fit of giggles, while James failed miserably, earning glares from both boys.
"Right. You'll need to be added to the access list, then. Worked exactly as expected," Harry grinned.
"At least you didn't use blood wards."
"I debated the idea, and I may still in the future," was Harry's answer, as the two of them climbed the ladder back out into Harry's room.
"All right," said Harry, touching the lid with his wand, "Addendum, Cedric Diggory." The lid glowed green for a moment, then lay still. "Now you should be able to apparate in and out of it." Cedric nodded, then sat down at the small desk.
"Here... parchment and a pen-sorry, I don't tend to use quills and ink anymore."
"It still writes, that's what counts," answered Cedric, as he scribbled out a quick note. Hedwig had already hopped up onto the window sill in front of the desk, and stood there, ready to accept the piece of mail. "Take this to my mum or dad, whoever you find first," said Cedric, tying the letter to the owl's leg with a piece of string. She easily lifted off the sill, and soared into the night sky.
"Right smart bird you have there, Harry."
"My first birthday present, but I told you that before. Hagrid got her for me." Cedric nodded, but then glanced at the larger sheet of parchment that still lay open on the desk. "What's this?"
"An improved version of the Marauder's map. I've done it before, so it won't take long."
"Harry, I'm surprised you aren't half-spare. How is it you're keeping yourself together?"
"Simple," answered the younger boy, "I still have you... and Sirius... and Ron and Hermione... everyone I care about is still alive now. Sure, it still hurts in ways, but the fact everyone's still alive... that's what keeps me together."
"Harry... you won't be able to save everyone. Fate won't allow it."
"I guess I kind of know that... I mean, Hermione's gone on enough about altering time... oh bloody hell, she'll be the one to go spare when she finds out what's happened to me," said Harry. It was only half a concern, though, as he carried a goofy grin on his face. "I mean, it's not exactly as though I ASKED for this to happen, after all. But since I'm here, I'm taking full advantage." Cedric only grinned at Harry's goofy outburst, then wrapped the boy in a tight hug.
"Now. There's no way we'll be sleeping up here." He gestured with his hand at the bedroom door. "Repello Muggletum. Let's get back into the trunk. I have some plumbing to set up..."

It was the wee hours of the morning before both teens were in bed. The expansion charm took a little more time than expected, but the trunk now had a fully-functional bathroom. The two of them now lay in a simple double bed which rested against the far wall. Harry was spooned up against Cedric, the lights now dimmed to the point where one could just see enough to get around.
"So how long do you think you'll keep your secret from Dumbledore?"
"Dunno, hopefully for a while yet. I know he means well, but... he'll want to keep me protected and all that. I think I'm more than capable of looking after myself. But at the same time, I will need his help, right... just as much as I'll need Snape's."
"You trust him?"
"With my life," answered Harry, "We don't exactly get along, but I know why. I know that when it really counts, he'll be there every bit as much as Dumbledore."
"Doesn't excuse him from being a prat around you though."
"I don't know what the answer is on that. But again, I understand. If that's how it has to be, then so be it. Ced, I know who my allies are, who I can depend on. I've already made changes for the better, and I plan to make many more... if I do things right, Voldemort will NEVER come back."

When Harry next woke, the sun was streaming in through the false window-an ingenious charm that allowed natural light into the space. Cedric had separated from him, laying on his side, facing the opposite wall. Harry smirked, and rolled over so he was up against the other boy, then began placing soft kisses on his neck, working up to his chin, then to his face. His body might only be fifteen, but his mind was twenty-six, and he did know a thing or two about how to get the attention of his boyfriend-he'd had several later on, before finally finishing off Voldemort. Of course, it had always been a risk, as any love interest would very quickly become a target for Voldemort.

He smirked as Cedric finally began to stir, and opened his eyes.
"'Morning," Harry grinned.
"You do have a way of waking someone up."
"Thought you'd like it. You have anywhere you need to be today?"
"Other than here? Not really," answered Cedric.
"Great!" Harry flicked his index finger. "Tempus." '9:14 am' wafted from it. "Aunt Petunia's not going to be happy I didn't make breakfast this morning, but I'm not their bloody house elf."
"They made you cook for them?"
"Since I could reach the stove. I mean, not ALL the time, but a good part of it. Anyway… you can have the shower first. Not that I wouldn't mind joining you, but…"
"Harry, who's going to see us here? Not that I will ever take advantage of you," Cedric pointed out. Harry grinned, saying, "I like your way of thinking."

After a long, steamy shower, which involved perhaps a little more than getting clean, the two teens quickly got dressed, then apparated back out to Harry's room, where he removed the Muggle repelling charm on the door. They stepped into the hallway, and were almost knocked over by Dudley as he thumped down the stairs. "Watch where you're going, fr-"
"I would suggest you NOT finish that sentence, Dudley," said Harry, his voice low and cold. Dudley turned around to notice the other boy, and turned deathly white. "There are two of us here that know many ways of making things VERY unpleasant. I thought we had an understanding."
"S-s-s-sorry," Dudley stammered, then recovering, warned, "Be careful around mum, she's… she's put out that you didn't come down to make breakfast."
"Thanks for the warning," said Harry.
"Just… don't hurt her, okay?"
"Of course not. Look, like I said, I just want to be left alone." Dudley nodded, and continued down the stairs. Harry and Cedric followed him into the kitchen, where indeed, Petunia was cleaning up the remnants of breakfast, a lingering burnt smell in the air.
"You!" she hissed, "How… what did you do… you were supposed to make breakfast! And… and… what's HE still doing here?"
"He stayed the night, of course," answered Harry, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
"And does he not have his own bed to sleep in, rather than treating our home as a brothel?! Up there, doing your freakish things, I imagine…"
"Brothel? Good idea," Harry grinned, watching as his aunt turned deathly white, much like his cousin had only a few moments earlier.
"You wouldn't dare!"
"Sure, why not? I mean, Fred and George could help out-you remember Fred and George don't you?" Dudley made a strangled sound and made a very quick exit.
"YOU WILL NOT BE…" Petunia began yelling, but Harry held up a hand, saying, "No, of COURSE we won't be doing something like that! However, no one here seems to be living up to their part of the deal. I'm not your house elf. I mean, I'm sure I could get Kreacher to come if that's what you want… but you won't like him, I GUARANTEE it. That reminds me… Ced, remind me to write a letter to Sirius later about him." Cedric only nodded, while Petunia still remained a very white shade. "Kreacher?"
"Oh yes, lovely personality. But he'd do exactly what I ask, begrudgingly nonetheless, but…"
"No, that's quite all right," Petunia sputtered, the implication being very clear. Of course, she knew what a house elf was, and no, most certainly did NOT want one in the household. Now, if Harry had his way, that was EXACTLY what was about to happen.
"Aunt Petunia, again, I make myself clear. Every time you or uncle Vernon or Dudley provoke me, you will see more 'freakish' things happen in your house. Is that what you want?"
"Harry, you can't-" Cedric began to protest, but Harry held up a hand. "The Ministry won't be able to do a thing in a few days, if what the goblins told me is true… the detection charms in the area will break down, and I'll be allowed to use my wand here. Oh, and in the event you're remotely THINKING of contacting Dumbledore or any other person about that… By my magic, I FORBID you, Petunia Dursley, from discussing any of what I have just disclosed, with ANYONE who does not already know." Harry smirked as a swirl of violet magic wafted from his chest, to settle around Petunia, then well inside her, much to her displeasure.
"Harry! That's dark magic!"
"Perhaps… but it prevents people from spreading my secrets. Now… aunt Petunia, I'll clean up the kitchen… we haven't had breakfast yet and it wouldn't be right for you to have to clean up after us as well." Petunia only glared at the two teens, then backed out of the kitchen, still looking very pale after this latest confrontation with her nephew.

Once they had eaten and cleaned up the kitchen, the teens returned to Harry's room. Harry sent off a quick note to Sirius, then they re-entered the trunk.
"'morning, Harry," Greeted Lily, from her portrait.
"'morning, mum," answered Harry, with a grin. It was nice having his parents' portrait this soon. They had been a tremendous help the previous evening with erecting the wards on the trunk.
"'morning, Mrs. Potter," said Cedric.
"So what's the plan today?" questioned James.
"Adding a couple of rooms to the trunk, probably making this room a bit bigger," said Harry, "I also have to install a fireplace… floo connection and so on-"
"Not inside a trunk, dear," said Lily, "The ministry would never allow it."
"Ah, but see, mum, 'I' know how to do it," Harry rebutted, with a smirk. That got a wicked grin from James, who spoke, "Just like a true Marauder, Prongs Jr."
"Prongs Jr. …right," said Cedric, as it dawned on him. Harry had told him about his father's Animagus form, and the influence it had on Harry's Patronus form. "Speaking of prank, you should've seen your son in action just now," said Cedric, with a smirk of his own.

Ten minutes later, James was laughing himself silly, while Lily, trying to maintain a modicum of firmness, was failing quite spectacularly. "Well," she finally managed, "Maybe my tart of a sister might finally get it… Merlin's pants, if the tables were reversed…"
"I know, mum, I know," said Harry.

An hour or so passed with playful banter back and forth, as the boys again began making changes to the trunk, which at that time mostly involved the enlargement of the original room, as it would become the common room. As it neared 11 am, Hedwig flew in through the opening in the corner where the ladder was, to light on the drawing table the teens had conjured the night before. An envelope was affixed to one of her legs. Harry quickly retrieved it. "I'll get you a treat later, okay?" The bird seemed to understand, and began preening herself. Harry quickly opened the letter. "It's from Sirius."

Harry,

What do you want with Kreacher? You do know, he is not exactly 'personable', right? If it's truly important, perhaps we could make arrangements for you to come visit for an afternoon.

Love,
Sirius

"Okay, change of plans. We're going to Grimmauld Place," said Harry.
"Sirius' parents place," said James. Harry nodded, saying, "It's hidden by a Fidelius Charm. Dumbledore's the secret keeper, but I know the secret."
"Harry, I won't be able-" Cedric began.
"You can if you hold onto me while we cross the ward," answered Harry, "You trust me?"
"Of course."
"Let's go, then. Be back in a bit, guys," said Harry. He grabbed Cedric's hand, and they both disapparated.

They appeared with a light pop in the middle of a small square, a familiar plot for Harry, but foreign for Cedric. "I'll have to get Dumbledore to give you the secret, but come on." After a quick look around to make sure no one was watching, he grabbed the older boy's hand, and led him toward a block of houses on one side. Cedric immediately noticed there was no Number Twelve. 'Of course', he realized, it was probably there, just hidden.

Sure enough, Harry was going right for the boundary dividing eleven from thirteen, and, up a set of invisible stairs. Then, as soon as his feet made contact with what would have been the first step, the missing address popped into view. He had just circumvented the Fidelius charm on Number Twelve, Grimmauld Place.

The house was darker inside than Harry had ever seen it. Perhaps Sirius was just starting to get things sorted. And of course, the Weasleys hadn't been invited over yet… summer holidays had just begun, after all.
"Shhhhh… there's a nasty portrait in the hallway that gets quite vulgar if disturbed," Harry whispered in warning. Cedric nodded, and they went into the sitting room. "Wait here, I'm gonna find Sirius." He'd barely gotten the words out when said godfather framed the doorway.
"Merlin, Harry, when I said we'd make arrangements for you to visit…"
"You know as well as I do, Dumbledore'd never allow it… at least not this early in the summer."
"And Cedric… how did you manage to get in here?"
"I led him in," answered Harry, "But I'll get Dumbledore to share the secret with him as soon as I can."
"Worthy of a Marauder," Sirius grinned, "Well, come into the kitchen. I daresay it's probably the only room in the house that's been cleaned in any decent form up to this point."

Once seated around the narrow table in the kitchen, Harry got down to business. "Sirius, I need to speak with Kreacher. He's got a locket that's very important."
"Ah, right, the Horcrux. Kreacher!" Sirius shouted. There was a loud CRACK, as the elf in question made an appearance. "Master call for Kreacher?"
"Indeed, I did," answered Sirius, "My godson has some questions for you. You will answer to him as you would answer me. Is that clear?"
"Yes, master," said Kreacher, then continuing in a low voice, "Master not fit, he isn't… oh what would mistress say?"
"Kreacher, please," said Harry, "I need a locket. It's very specific. A gold locket, with a serpentine 'S' on the front of it. Have you seen it? Answer truthfully, please." The elf shifted from foot to foot, then said, "Yes, Kreacher has seen it… Master Regulus brought it home-"
"From the lake in the cave," Harry finished, "Kreacher, I know what Regulus was trying to do. I'm going to finish it, and I know how. Could you fetch me the locket?"
"Can little master do it?" Kreacher asked, hopefully, "Kreacher tried… oh how he tried… but nothing Kreacher did ever left a mark on it."
"I promise you Kreacher, I can, and I WILL." The elf disappeared with a loud CRACK, only to reappear moments later, the locket in question in his hands. The elf looked like he was about to break down and cry.
"Kreacher, you've done very well. It is not your fault what happened to Regulus, you understand?" That's all it took. The elf fell to the floor, his wails and sobs filling the kitchen. This, of course, resulted in the inevitable. A piercing blood-curdling screech came from the hallway.
"Filth! Vileness! How dare you besmirch my house!" the screams continued.
"Just a second," said Harry, with a smirk, stepping into the hallway. Over the foul portrait's screams, he shouted, "SILENCIO!" The portrait fell silent, even though the woman's lips continued to move, her face contorted into a fit of rage.
"Well done, Harry," said Sirius, appraising his godson's work, "We've all tried that before."
"Well, annunciation is only part of a spell, is it not?"
"That it is."
"If I've done it right, she'll never be heard from again."

They found Kreacher in the kitchen some time later, appearing to be in much better spirits, preparing some tea.
"You've had a magic touch with him," noted Sirius, as they took seats at the table.
"If you want, I could take him back to my aunt's house."
"He did threaten Petunia with exactly that this morning," said Cedric.
"She went deathly white with the suggestion. Another wonderful memory to power my Patronus charm," Harry grinned, "And I could probably get Dobby and Winky to help here."
"If you don't mind… You know the Order of the Phoenix will begin meeting here soon."
"Yeah, within the next week, right?" Harry guessed.
"Having the Weasleys here, Remus, and so on… it'll be awkward for Kreacher."
"My trunk will need tending to and so on-I did tell you about my trunk in the future, right?" Sirius nodded. "I got it the day before yesterday. Cedric's helping me set things up, but, a house elf would be handy."
"Kreacher," said Sirius, "Would you like to help Harry with his, err, flat?"
"Kreacher would be pleased," the elf answered, with a low bow.
"Great, then it's settled," said Harry, "And I might have something for you in a couple of days." His mind was already racing, devising a plan for recovering the fake locket from the cave. In the meantime, he had two elves to summon…

it was actually mid-afternoon before Harry and Cedric returned to the trunk. They had raided the Black library of some useful materials. Kreacher went straight to work, putting said books away in one of several cases Harry had conjured.
"Mum, dad," said Harry, "This is Kreacher."
"We remember him, Harry," said Lily.
"Harry Potter's parents," Kreacher croaked, seeming to study the portrait.
"Now… I need to set out some rules. You're not to ever use the word 'mudblood' again. You cannot insult my parents or my friends. Basically treat them with the same respect you show me. Is that clear?" Kreacher nodded. "That kind of thing is just wrong, it's the kind of thing that's keeping Wizarding society in the dark ages."
"Kreacher understands."
"Great. Like I said, there's something I plan to give you once I have it, but it may take a few days. Now, in the mean time…"

By supper time, the flat now had a proper kitchen, as well as a decent sized dining room. Harry sent Kreacher out to get supplies for the pantry, and the boys set to work on adding a few bedrooms. In the future, there were fourteen rooms on three levels at the height of use, with nearly twenty people sharing the space.

Harry quickly realized Cedric was a more than adequate student in both charms and transfiguration, and that moved things along much quicker than had he been working alone. Both had teamed up to build a fireplace, with Harry actually teaching Cedric a thing or two about conjuration. Of course, Cedric was already learning that considering he had completed his sixth year. However, Harry knew MUCH more than that.
"I'm awed watching you work, Harry," Cedric praised, "It's just amazing how much you know."
"Well, eleven years kind of does that right? Like, did you know this?" said Harry, taking a seat in one of the couches in front of the fire, "In some instances, Muggles can learn magic?"
"Bullocks!" Cedric swore as he also took a seat, "Impossible!"
"Yes, in most cases, that's true. But, there are very rare cases. I actually personally witnessed an example… Merlin, it would have been six years ago… I won't name any names, but… one of the guys staying in the trunk, he saved a man's life by giving him blood… Muggle-born as I remember. A week later, well, he started having bouts of accidental magic."
"Well… it does sound plausible, dear," said Lily from her portrait.
"Voldemort found out, and… well, it was a painful few weeks for me. It was shortly after that ugly incident that I perfected my Occlumency."
"But surely, the ministry of magic would have more documentation on incidents like that."
"Ced, remember what kind of a government we're dealing with. That's the WORST kind of thing they'd want to keep records of. The pure-blood movement would go spare!"
"But… surely, just transferring some of your blood wouldn't-"
"Cedric, magic is all around us. It's in every living thing. We've been given a gift of a great well of it, a strong concentration of it."
"I see where you're going," Lily cut in, "A witch or wizard's blood carries some of the concentration."
"Exactly. That's what the group of us thought, too. I mean, the guy wasn't all that powerful, but he could cast a few simple charms. I'm sure if he'd survived, he probably would have become proficient enough."
"What happened?"
"What do you think?" questioned Harry, darkly. Cedric only nodded, realizing he had touched a sore spot. The debate was ended when Kreacher popped back in, bringing with him a load of groceries.
"Looks like he bought out the store," Harry laughed, happy for the distraction.

Once dinner was over and done with, Harry finally turned his attention to the dark objects that rested in the second compartment of the trunk. They were all brought into the flat, and placed on the drawing table in the common room.
"What are those?" Cedric gestured to the two cabinets.
"Vanishing cabinets," said Harry, "In my sixth year, Draco fixed this one…" he gestured to the broken one, "Which was hidden in the Room of Requirement. Death Eaters were able to get into the school from the other one, which was at Borgin & Burke's, in Knockturn Alley. I mean, they aren't dark objects in themselves, and might be bloody useful."
"Looks like this one's still damaged," said Cedric.
"Yeah. I'm not worried about those right now. These on the other hand…" Harry gestured to Ravenclaw's diadem and Slytherin's locket. "I'll need to visit the Chamber of Secrets with Snape in the near future. I need at least four fangs from the dead basilisk, but I'll probably collect more. Thing is, he's gonna want to know why…"
"And you'll likely have to explain everything in minute detail."
"Remember, Harry, Severus and I were very close friends," Lily reminded, "Perhaps you could invite him to speak with me, he might like that."
"Yeah, I'm sure he would. But mum, do you forgive him? For calling you… what he did?"
"Of course I do."
"He'll definitely want to hear that," said Harry, "It was one thing that pained him the most. It's a bit late to be sending mail now, and Hedwig's likely gone hunting. First thing tomorrow, then. In the mean time…"
"What's that one?" Cedric pointed to the strange object that had somehow followed Harry home from the Room of Requirement.
"This one… I don't know what to make of it. When I was in the Room of Requirement, I knocked this over. When I went down to pick it up, the bloody thing gave me a shock. I didn't think nothing of it, but-"
"Sounds like it's imprinted itself on you," said James.
"That's why I've handled it so carefully now… I don't know if it's dangerous." Harry levitated the object with his hand. It somewhat resembled a model of the planet, with a set of rings going on two axis. Each ring had hundreds of runes inscribed on it. The sphere itself had numerous markings as well.

Then, Harry got an idea. Allowing the object to settle back on the table, he drew his wand, and tapped the object, saying, "Reveal your secrets." He was promptly thrown across the room by the resulting shock. "Err… maybe not," Harry ground out, rubbing the back of his head. His glasses had fell off his face, and now lay on his lap. His wand had gone flying, and clattered against the opposite wall.
"I'd put it back where you got it, Harry. Or turn it over to the Ministry. They'll be in a better position to make heads or tails of it," suggested Cedric.
"I'll put it back in the Room of Requirement when I visit the Chamber of Secrets."

With Cedric gone for the night, Harry slept fitfully. His dreams were again invaded, as he found himself back at the old house he had dreamt about the previous summer… or what was twelve years prior.
"Tell me again, Wormtail, how was it they managed to escape?" came the raspy voice that was Voldemort, still in his 'ugly baby' form.
"I do not know, Master, they… they disapparated… before I could cast the curse… forgive me…"
"Crucio."

Harry woke up to screams, and realized it was his own voice. Kreacher was already at his bedside, looking quite concerned.
"Is little master all right?"
"Just… fine, Kreacher," answered Harry, sitting up. 'Been a while since I've felt that one.' He rubbed his scar, which was still throbbing.
"Little master must lay down, Kreacher will be back with headache-potion," said Kreacher, and popped away.

He returned only seconds later, with two potions. "Kreacher brings a headache potion and dreamless sleep potion for master Harry."
"Thanks," said Harry, accepting the two potions. The elf gave a low bow, then left the room. Harry consumed both of the offered potions, and sleep quickly took him.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: 2 - LAYING A NEW FOUNDATION
NEXT CHAPTER: 4 - WHEN 'POTTER' BECAME 'HARRY'
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Table Of Contents

2009-09-11T04:08:04Z

Like my other stories, I also create a table of contents so people are better able to locate all the chapters of it. This table of contents was created on September 11, 2009, and modified on November 25, 2009.

UPDATE, NOVEMBER 2, 2009: This story is undergoing some major changes, given the drastic change of direction I am headed with regard to the first dimensional jump. So this table of contents may not work properly in places. Just a warning to that effect.

UPDATE, NOVEMBER 6, 2009: I've now removed links to incorrect chapters here. Chapters 1 - 4 are still relatively correct as they are, save for a small change in chapter 3.

"...a long-hidden power once again becomes known, and the four from the one will have the power to vanquish the great threat... lead by the one who twice vanquished the dark lord..." - Sarah Gilman, July 1995

Summary: Harry is pulled back in time to the 3rd task after defeating Voldemort years into the future. Momentarily confused, he sets out to make a few changes. Stumbling on a powerful magical artifact, however, sends him off in a few VERY unexpected directions. Warn: SLASH, M/M

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROLOGUE
I - A PLOT FOILED
II - LAYING A NEW FOUNDATION
III - FLAT TRUNK? (Or, is it a trunk flat?)
IV - THE TAMING OF SEVERUS SNAPE
V - A PARTY CRASHED
VI - TABOO
VII - NEW REALITIES
VIII - NIGHTMARES OF A FUTURE PAST
IX - THE DARK PURSUIT
X - UNITED AND SEVERED
XI - HARRY SPINS A TALE
XII - AN UNPLEASANT HOUSE CALL
XIII - REACTIONS
XIV - BOUNDARIES PUSHED
XV - HAPPY F'ING BIRTHDAY
XVI - "HARRY'S TUCKY"

XVIII - THE DOOR GOES WHERE? (Or, the twins' latest invention has promising uses)
XIX - PROGRESS AND DEPARTURES (Or, How Harry's Summer Comes to a Close)
XX - THE SHIP BEAUTIFUL (Or, A Condemned Ship Gets a Visit of the Magical Kind)
XXI - BACK TO HOGWARTS (And, How the minister spent his summer)
XXII - RETURN OF THE TOAD (Or, Harry Gets a Taste of the Challenges Ahead)

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter 2 - Laying a New Foundation

2009-09-11T03:41:05Z

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: 2 - Laying a New Foundation
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~5,972
Warning(s): Coarse language, violence, major spoilers for "Half Blood Prince".
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

II: LAYING A NEW FOUNDATION
OR, THE "M" WORD, AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR THE DURSLEYS

As soon as the car pulled into the driveway, Harry wasted no time exiting the vehicle, and retrieving his trunk from the boot.
"Now you listen here, boy," Vernon began, "There will be no-"
"What, funny business? I am going to store my trunk in my room, and then you, your wife, your son, and I will be having a conversation," said Harry, his voice cold and even. Vernon began to sputter at the indignation, but one look at the green ice chips that were Harry's eyes made him think otherwise. He huffed, then stormed into the house.

Once Harry had stored his school trunk in his room, he made sure his wand was once again stuffed in the waistband of his pants, then trekked back down the stairs to the lounge, where, surprisingly, the Dursleys had complied, and were waiting.
"I need you all to listen to me, and listen carefully," said Harry, gesturing with his hand at the coffee table, where a pitcher of iced tea appeared, along with four glasses, causing his relatives to whimper. "You'll notice I didn't use my wand to conjure up this lovely service-do feel free to have some, by the way-" Harry gestured to the wand, still stuck in the waistband of his pants.
"You… you can't use magic out of school!" Vernon sputtered, "They'll-"
"What, expel me? No, I think not," said Harry, his voice rather light, "See, I'm needed. Voldemort almost came back… thanks to me, he didn't get his body back… but next time we won't be so lucky, and it'll be up to me, and me only to defeat him. So I'll make this very clear. I have things to do. I will stay out of your way, and you'll stay out of mine. It's that simple. If you want me to take care of the gardens and so on, fine. But it'll be done MY way. Just imagine, aunt Petunia, you could have the best garden in the neighbourhood, if you'll let me use dragon dung… makes the plants grow like crazy."
"You'll NOT be using-"
"Oh, Vernon… perhaps if we just… very well, boy, I'll leave you… just don't let me SEE you actually doing any of your freakish things," said Petunia, still obviously uncomfortable with the idea.
"You do know about the wards on the house, right? All of you?"
"W-wards?" Dudley squeaked.
"Yes. Very powerful protections wrought by ancient magic. Look, if I fail, our world will be fucked over three ways from Sunday. Do you really want that?"
"What-how dare-what do you…" Vernon sputtered, the vein on his forehead pumping a furious purple. Petunia was equally appalled by Harry's choice of words.
"Dudley… you and your friends will do well to keep away from me from here on out… I won't put up with your dragon shit any more. This is your one warning." Harry poured himself a glass of iced tea, and took a swig. "I don't like making a bunch of demands and ultimatums, but it seems that's the only thing you understand. All I ask for is to be left alone, and perhaps treated civilly. Is that really too much to ask?" He downed the glass, and left the room.

Climbing the stairs and re-entering his room, he then opened Hedwig's cage, and let her out. "Hey, girl. Things are gonna be different this summer." The owl looked up at him, blinking her yellow eyes. "I'm not the boy they all expect me to be any more. It's time I made some of my own decisions." The owl blinked again, as if in understanding.

That evening, as he lay on his bed, having adjusted the room to better fit a growing wizard, he finally allowed his mind to wander back to the conversation he had had with Dumbledore the day before.

It was immediately following the leaving feast, when the headmaster had pulled Harry aside, inviting him up to the office for their chat.
"Harry, you have changed much this past year," said Dumbledore, as they seated themselves: Dumbledore behind his desk, Harry seated in a comfortable chair before it.
"I almost lost Cedric," said Harry, quietly.
"Yes, but you did not, Harry. I trust you two have made plans for the summer?"
"He's planning to visit me a few days after we get back," said Harry, "It definitely gives me something to look forward to at my relatives' place." He smiled easily, realizing once again, things had changed dramatically.
"Indeed, Harry," said Dumbledore, as they made eye contact. Harry had been expecting this, and carefully placed chosen memories up front for Dumbledore to see, namely some of the events in the graveyard, mixed with some uncomfortable memories of his life with the Dursleys. After a few moments, he felt Dumbledore withdraw.
"Harry, I know life with your relatives has been less than enjoyable, but you must understand, it is the only place where you will truly be safe."
"And what happens when I come of age, sir? Surely whatever protections you have will fail…"
"How did you come to know that, Harry?" Dumbledore questioned, and Harry once again felt the icy fingers of the headmaster's magic trying to see into his mind. More memories of his life with the Dursleys, this time of Dudley and his gang, enjoying their favourite pastime: Harry hunting. The prickly feeling quickly left.
"I dunno, I figured, there HAS to be some reason you insist on me staying there, right?"
"Indeed, Harry, you are correct," said Dumbledore, taking a lemon drop from the dish on the corner of his desk. "Lemon Drop?"
"No thank you," Harry declined, then continued, "Sir, what's so special about the protections at my relatives?"
"It has everything to do with the scar on your forehead. Remember what happened to professor Quirrell when you touched him?" Harry nodded. "It is all about the powerful protection which flows through your blood Harry. Your mother's love. As long as you call your aunt's house your home-"
"But sir, I've never really considered it such. They only see me as a freak!"
"I know, dear boy, how I know. I do wish there was a better solution, but as long as Voldemort remains a threat, it is our only choice."
"But… how was he able to survive?"
"Indeed, that is truly the question now, isn't it?" Dumbledore reached into his desk, and pulled out the destroyed diary that belonged to Tom Riddle. "This may be our clue, and if it is anything like I suspect, we are truly in for a difficult fight."
"Sir, WHY?" Harry almost shouted, but it came out sharply. "Why is Voldemort trying to kill me?"
"Harry, you have to understand. I wished you to have a chance at some sort of childhood before you faced your destiny." Harry snorted at that comment. "And my childhood has been roses. Right."
"Harry, if there had been any other way, I would have done it. You must realize that," said Dumbledore. Of course, he was right, Harry gave him that much. "You have seen my pensieve, yes?" Harry nodded. Dumbledore rose, and pulled the pensieve out of the cabinet, and after placing it on the desk, collected a small vial from a large carousel containing what looked like thousands of little bottles. Each one of them contained a memory, or a stream of them.

As Dumbledore poured the contents of the vial into the pensieve, Harry stuck his finger in the silvery liquid, already fully aware of what he was about to see: a younger Sybill Trelawney speaking the dreaded prophecy which rested so heavily on his shoulders, all over again… '…the one with the power to vanquish the Dark Lord approaches… born to those who have thrice defied him, born as the seventh month dies… and the Dark Lord will mark him as his equal, but he will have the power the Dark Lord knows not… and either must die at the hand of the other for neither can live while the other survives…'

Harry sat back in the chair, appearing to mull over what he had just heard. After a few moments, he let out a sigh, then declared, "I guess it shouldn't surprise me… I mean, he's come after me three times-err, make that four times already."
"Indeed, Harry."
"So why haven't you been preparing me, getting me ready? I would have rather been put into extra classes, training, you know, instead of dancing around the garden, with useless visions of a childhood I will never have. I'm going on fifteen years old, and what do I have to show for it? Perhaps next time we meet, I won't be so lucky."
"Harry, you lack faith in yourself," Dumbledore responded, "You have shown far more courage than I could have imagined. No, I think you will do more than admirably when the two of you next meet."
"I guess."
"However, your point is received. I will see about setting up some extra lessons, perhaps over the summer, but more than likely starting in September." Dumbledore paused for a few moments. "Harry, there is something that has held me curious since the third task. How is it you were aware of Barty Crouch's deception?"
"I saw it… through my scar… in the graveyard," answered Harry, "He had shown Voldemort his disguise. Sir, why didn't you know? I mean, you've known each other a long time, right?"
"Do forgive me, Harry, I am an old man, at times prone to mistakes," answered Dumbledore.

Harry bowed his head. It was hard to stay angry at the headmaster. The first time around, it had been he who had done his best to clear Harry's name, and get his education reinstated. He had gone to great lengths to ensure Harry still received an education. Glamour charms had been very handy in allowing him to stay in the castle at times, one of the many charms the headmaster taught him.

Yet, it had all ended tragically at the end of what would have been his sixth year. They had gone after a Horcrux Voldemort had hidden in a cave, using a most disturbing potion. Dumbledore had consumed all of it, allowing Harry to collect said Horcrux, but it had taken its toll. Returning to the castle, they were ambushed, and the overgrown bat of a potions master, with the assistance of Draco Malfoy, proved his true allegiance-it was only much later when Harry learned of the true motivations, and the fact Snape was in fact truly working on Dumbledore's instructions.
"A sickle for your thoughts, Harry?"
"Just thinking, is all. Thank you for showing me the memory, at least now I know the WHY. I guess in a way I feel relieved. Sir, like I said last time we met here, I just want people to be honest with me. I do have a right to that, do I not?"
"Indeed you do, Harry. You know, I am truly amazed at your maturity. You have handled this very well."
"I have to. If it's truly me or him… being childish about it won't get us anywhere." The elder wizard inclined his head, eyes once again twinkling madly. "Indeed, you are so right, Harry." A happy trill sounded, and Harry looked up to see Fawkes looking at him, perhaps agreeing with him? Wouldn't surprise him. "Hello Fawkes." He thought for a moment, then said, "Sir, if I need to send you a letter, may I call on Fawkes?"
"Of course. It might be wise to keep your correspondence to a minimum as it is, considering the uncertainty of events. Should you need a bit of extra company, feel free to call on him also."
"I'll keep that in mind. Thank you sir."
"You have forged a strong bond with Fawkes, a most unusual feat, Harry. Phoenixes do not usually form more than one bond at a time…"

Harry smirked to himself as the memory faded. Yes, Fawkes might be a very handy ally over the summer, as there were several things that would need attending to, and it would never do for some people to know about that. He didn't like the idea of deceiving the headmaster, yet, at the same time, there were things that, for the time being, Dumbledore could NOT know. He quickly sorted through the day's memories, closed his eyes, and at last allowed sleep to take him.

The following morning, he was woken by his aunt's shrill call. "Boy!? You up?"
"I'll be down in a minute, aunt Petunia," Harry answered sleepily. He summoned a pepper-up potion, downed it, slipped on a loose tee shirt and a pair of Dudley's cast-off jeans, and finally unlocked the door. Hedwig was gone, probably still out hunting.
"Good morning, aunt Petunia," said Harry. He would try and be civil, after all, right? His aunt scowled at him, and gestured to a plate sitting on the island. Some cold toast, a couple slices of bacon, and an egg.
"Thank you," said Harry, waving a hand over the plate. Steam instantly started rising off the now heated breakfast, which he carried to the table and took a seat. "I'll be out of the house most of the day. Wizard business and all," he added, seeing his aunt about to question. It had exactly the effect he wanted, as she closed her mouth and did not ask.
"I want you to… to continue tending the garden, boy," Petunia said. It was half way between asking and demanding. Harry only nodded, however, saying, "I'll be sure to pick up some items today that will do some amazing things for the garden. The neighbours will be jealous in a couple of weeks. One of my year mates loves herbology-err, the Wizarding equivalent of Horticulture. I'd ask him to come over, but…"
"As long as it's while Vernon's not home," said Petunia. Harry nodded. "I'll see if he's available sometime next week. Maybe get his ideas on what you might need… yeah, I'll have him help me with the garden supplies." Petunia nodded at that, and they fell silent.

"Why are you being so nice?" Petunia finally asked, still standing at the island counter, watching as he ate.
"Because you are blood, right? I mean, you haven't treated me well, but… if it wasn't for you… the world as we know it would be in big trouble. Voldemort hates Muggles. He'll kill as many as he can, if he ever gets the power he wants. And you'd be at the top of his list." Petunia seemed to become very pale for a moment, as the words sunk in. "I promise you… I will protect your family. If you will let me… I mean, you have done that much for me."

Petunia once again stared open-mouthed at her sister's son. This boy-or-young man was most definitely not a freak, she was beginning to see that now. Even after the way she and her family had treated him, he was still willing to do what was right. "Th-thank you, b-Harry." Harry only inclined his head, as he polished off the remainder of his breakfast.
"you're welcome. Now if you guys want me to cook breakfast tomorrow... let me know if there's stuff needed at the store. I'll go out later on, once I'm back from…"
"Diagon Alley," Petunia guessed.
"Yeah. I'll be back sometime this afternoon. In a way it's good you woke me up." Petunia inclined her head, and Harry gestured with his hand, banishing the plate to the sink. He then stepped out the back door into the back garden. 'Now… let's see if I remember how to do this…'

If it had been Diagon Alley, the sudden appearance of a trail of black smoke in the sky would have been truly frightening. Yet, this was Knockturn Alley, a place where that kind of thing might be expected. The black shape took a more solid form on the steps of Borgin & Burkes, a store known in darker circles to carry things the Ministry would most definitely not approve of.

Harry grinned a sinister grin, and stepped inside of said shop. He wasted no time locating the object of his visit that morning: a large cabinet that still stood against one wall. The same cabinet he had hidden in the summer before his second year, avoiding the Malfoys. Taking it wouldn't be that much of a problem.
"May I help you?" Harry recognized the oily-haired stooping man at once to be that of Mr. Borgin. He had expected to run into one of the shop owners at least.
"Yes, you just might," said Harry, thrusting a hand forward, "STUPEFY!" The shop keeper fell heavily to the floor, his head narrowly missing the edge of the counter by inches. He then knelt down beside the man, thinking carefully of the last few minutes, drawing his wand-the Ministry could not track who was casting magic in Diagon Alley, nor Knockturn Alley for that matter. "Obliviate." He then pointed his wand at the cabinet in question, shrinking it down to fit in his pocket. 'There. At least one disaster that can be averted,' Harry thought, then disapparated with a soft POP.

His next destination was Gringotts. He would need some money for his next destination, preferably a bit of wizard and Muggle currency. Once inside, he stepped up to the first open wicket. "I need to visit my vault, please," he said, sliding his key across the counter.
"Very well. Follow me, please," the goblin behind the wicket sneered, hopping down off the step stool he was standing on to see over the counter.

The trip down to his school vault was every bit as crazy as he remembered it, but having seen things far more insane in many ways, he didn't really mind it too much. "Vault six-eighty-seven," announced the goblin, "Key please." Harry quickly handed the goblin his key, and the door was unlocked. Harry wasted no time collecting a sack full of galleons. He noted the pile was still almost as large as it had been the first time he had seen it.
"Mr. Potter, you are aware of your inheritance, of course," the goblin spoke.
"I'll get it when I'm seventeen."
"Now we both know, Mr. Potter, you are older than seventeen."
"Excuse me?"
"When it comes to issues of inheritance, we are very thorough," the goblin sneered, "We do take our business here very seriously. Once you are finished here, you will be meeting with Griphook."
"Of course, I remember him." Harry quickly finished collecting the coins he thought he would need, then returned to the cart.

As expected, Griphook was waiting for them when the cart returned to the surface. Harry was led into one of the back rooms.
"I won't take much of your time, Mr. Potter. We only need your signature on a few documents." Harry only nodded, and signed where indicated.
"Wait a minute. If you guys can detect my real age… can't the ministry as well? I really don't want this to get out… that I'm really twenty-six… bloody hell I still don't know what happened."
"I don't know of their procedures as far as under aged witches and wizards are concerned, Mr. Potter. I would guess, it's quite likely they will notice something when the detection charms dissolve from your residence."
"Great. I'd really hoped I would at least get the summer before certain people knew about it." He finished signing the papers, which at once folded themselves up and vanished. Harry already understood what had happened: the documents were now safely filed away appropriately with record-keeping.
"Your key will now work in your family vault, number seven oh two," Griphook explained, "If you wish, I can take you down."
"No, not today. I've got other things to take care of," said Harry.
"Very well, then, our business is done here."
"May your vaults overflow with Galleons," said Harry. Griphook was taken aback for a moment at the comment, but then nodded, giving a toothy grin. Yes, Harry Potter was definitely a strange wizard.

Harry's next stop was a shop that specialized in wizard travelling apparatus. The shop sold just about everything the travelling wizard or witch would need to keep the comforts of home when away from home. The first time around, he had managed to corner Mad-Eye Moody and ask him where he had procured his trunk. The shop owner had been more than cooperative, setting Harry up with a three-compartment trunk, whose third compartment was in fact a room. Of course, it hadn't stayed that way, once Harry and Hermione started in on it.

This time around would be no different, as he tracked down the shop proprietor, and explained what he needed.
"Yes, that's certainly a bit of an order, but nothing I can't handle," said the shop keeper, "If it's all right, we can take a floor model, and make the customizations. It should only take me a few hours. How about three o'clock this afternoon?"
"That would be great. The outside appearance isn't all that important, just as long as it works. In the meantime, I've got other things to take care of anyway, so I'll come back and settle at three, then." Harry nodded to the shop keeper, then stepped back out into the alley, this time taking the time to look around.

Indeed, the alley had a very different feel to it than it had the last time he had seen it. Here, people were still moving around freely, going out their business without a worry. All the shops were open, no glaring ministry posters-other than a few with pictures of his godfather on them-that too would change, he KNEW it.

After having a bite for lunch at the Leaky Cauldron, Harry then stopped at Magical Menagerie, where he picked up some owl treats for Hedwig. There was no sense in picking anything else up, although, as he thought… no, he DID need more parchment… and in fact, he needed a few sheets of oversized parchment for another little project. If he had his way, no one would get near the Dursleys without him knowing. A foe glass, and a sneakoscope would come in handy as well.

That got him thinking on several other issues. The Horcruxes. The thing was, did he dare touch any of them with Voldemort still without a body? Yet, if he could eliminate them all BEFORE he reclaimed a body, there would be no final confrontation whatsoever. With that decision firmly made, he once again popped away.

He landed in the shrieking shack, and gesturing with his hand, he disillusioned himself. It would not be a good idea for him to be seen in Hogsmeade the day after having left for London. He made his way quickly to Honeydukes, slipped into the cellar, and down the trap door into the tunnel which led to the secret entrance on the third floor at Hogwarts.

Once in the school, he was forced to hide in the shadows, as voices could be heard coming toward him. Luckily, he had been able to hide his magical signature-he felt the wards wash over him, probing his identity-so more than likely, they would be looking for an intruder. This was old hat to Harry, he had snuck into Hogwarts several times AFTER it fell under control of the Death Eaters. Snape had actually done well, protecting the students from the worst of the lot, but it was at most times most unpleasant to be a student at Hogwarts.

The voices were getting closer, and Harry could now make them out.
"…telling you, Albus, the brat is a powerful Occlumens. I could not budge an inch on his defences. He forced me to see only what he chose me to see." 'Of course,' Harry grinned, ducked away in the shadows, 'Snape,' he thought. No, it wouldn't take long for him to know the secret. Now if only Harry could get him to stop acting like a greasy git toward him.
"Indeed, Severus, I come to a similar conclusion. He is more talented than you give him credit for. I do have to wonder what Lily might say, if she were able to see how you treat her son?"
"Do not attempt such manipulations, headmaster," said Snape, coldly. Harry didn't have to see him to know he had his patented sneer firmly in place. There was a pause, and Snape continued, "I may have agreed to protect her son, but it does not mean I have to like him."
"Your animosity does neither of you any good. Must you continue to blame the son for the faults of the parent?"
"Headmaster, you know as well as I do, should I go soft on Potter, word would take little time to reach the Dark Lord's followers, whether the Dark Lord is truly still alive or not. My use as a spy would be at an end." 'Of course, he speaks the truth,' Harry thought. Snape was absolutely crucial to the efforts of the light. 'I wonder if he could use some basilisk parts for potion ingredients…'

Once Dumbledore and Snape vanished around a corner, Harry stepped out from his hiding place. Sure, he was still disillusioned, but the two wizards were most certainly not ordinary. He let out a sigh, then made off for the seventh floor and his final destination: the Room of Requirement.
"I need the room of hidden things… I need the room of hidden things… I need the room of hidden things…" he spoke, pacing back and forth three times at the wall across from the tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy: a rather amusing painting of a wizard attempting to teach some trolls to dance the ballet.

Wasting no time as soon as the door appeared, he was in the incredible room, which then resembled an indoor junk pile. If you could dream it, it was likely somewhere in that room. He made a bee line for a spot toward the back of the room, where there lay another object he wished to collect: the mate to the vanishing cabinet that lay in his pocket. No, Death Eaters would not be sneaking into the school THAT WAY this time around.

He then turned his attention to the second target of his visit: Rowena Revenclaw's Diadem, which rested on the bust of an unknown wizard. Picking up a cloth on a nearby table, he accidentally knocked a strange-looking gadget to the floor, which rolled around for a moment, clattering to a stop. Shrugging, he reached down to pick it up, and was given a shock-literally, as a yellow arc of magic jumped between Harry and the device, causing him to let out a yelp. "Merlin's balls!"

He took a deep breath, calming his rattled nerves, and once again picked up the cloth, this time a little more carefully, lest he knock over something ELSE that might bite. Perhaps next time, a mild shock would be the least of his worries. He draped the cloth over the diadem, then gingerly picked it up. His experience dealing with a cursed necklace in his sixth year the first time around had taught him well about dealing with cursed objects. This was one of the worst that could be created.

Harry worked quickly, wrapping the diadem in the cloth, then shrinking it down to fit in his pocket. His job finished, he made his way from the room, retraced his steps back to the third floor, and lastly, back through the passage to Honeydukes. Unseen by the boy-who-lived, the strange object he had encountered in the Room of Requirement glowed a light blue colour, and vanished.

It was just after three o'clock when Harry again visited the Wizarding travel store.
"Ah, Mr. Potter. I'm just finishing up now," said the shop owner, indicating the large trunk which rested on the floor. The wood was a dark colour, with brass hardware on the corners. The latch and lock were also of brass.
"How much do I owe you?"
"Given the extra customizations, eight hundred galleons all totalled."
"Great." Harry fished into his sack of coins, and began counting out coins. True, it was an expensive purchase, but it would be worth it in the end. It took him several minutes to pull out the correct total, and even longer for the shop keeper to count it.
"very well then, allow me to explain its basic functions," said the shop keeper, gesturing to the now completed trunk. "Three compartments, as you requested. They are accessed depending on which latch you open." He gestured to the first latch. "This one, as well as the second, open to typical trunk compartments, both expanded substantially." He opened the first latch, allowing Harry to look inside.
"Great, excellent."
"The third one, as you requested, opens to reveal a ladder. I've given you an eight by fourteen room to furnish as you see fit." He closed the lid, then opened the third latch, allowing Harry to inspect it.
"I wasn't sure of the security charms you wanted on it, so there was nothing added." Harry only waved his hand at the comment, saying, "No worry, I have friends who can do that."
"Then we are settled. Thank you for your business, Mr. Potter." Harry inclined his head, picked up the trunk-which had been charmed to be feather light-and stepped out into the street. He ducked into an alcove, shrunk down the new trunk, and disapparated back to Little Whinging.

Stepping back into the house, he found a note tacked to the fridge. Petunia did in fact want a few things from the grocery store, and had left twenty pounds on the counter. He left them where they were, again disillusioned himself, and popped away. The grocery store wasn't that far away, but it was the novelty of it, after all. Not that he would ever get lazy, allowing magic to do everything for him. That was one of the things his relatives hated, and they did have a point.

The store, of course, was an absolute zoo. Everything else had gone so well, so there had to be a cock-up somewhere, right? He collected the items on the list as quickly as he could, then joined the lengthy queue at the cashier. He thought of the items in the basket, realizing Petunia wanted pancakes for breakfast. He had added some fresh strawberries and blueberries to the list, to add a little flavour. His mind then wandered back to the items now cluttering his pockets, and why he hadn't emptied them before going shopping. 'Bloody hell, what would the bobbies say if I were questioned?' The strange items that lay miniaturized in his pocket would most definitely result in some VERY uncomfortable questions.

More importantly, however, was the very dark object among them. One of Voldemort's Horcruxes. Even now, in its miniaturized state, he could hear it whispering to him in a language only he and one other understood: the language of snakes, parseltongue.

When he finally got back to the house, Petunia had returned, as had Dudley.
"I see you have still not-" but broke off, noticing the grocery bags Harry was carrying. "Did you not see the money left on the counter?"
"It's fine, I covered it," answered Harry, as he carried the groceries into the kitchen.
"Go, I'll put things away," said Petunia. Harry only nodded, then went to his room. There was stuff to unpack!

The trunk was first. Anything serious was to be done in the trunk. Just because the magic detectors would be vanishing soon didn't mean he could act recklessly. Even though Voldemort had not been able to return, he still wished not to draw the attention of the Ministry-although that would most likely happen anyway.

Next, came the other standard items he had purchased. Hedwig was resting on the window sill, watching her owner expectantly. Somehow she knew he had bought her more treats.
"Yes, Hedwig, I have more treats for you and your friends," Harry grinned, pulling out the package, and giving her one. "It was a good day today I think." He pulled out the cloth containing the Horcrux, and placed it in the second compartment of his new trunk. That would have to do for the time being, until he had better security.

Next thing on the list was the two vanishing cabinets, of which one was busted. It was the one thing he could never figure out; how Draco had managed to fix it. The brat had eventually came over to the light, perhaps a little too late to have any real effect. He had died trying to save Luna from Belletrix Lestrange, who had taken great offence her nephew had switched sides. Perhaps he could get to the prince of Slytherin sooner this time around.

For now, the two vanishing cabinets joined the Horcrux in the second compartment. He then finished emptying his pockets, and re-enlarged the parchment. That was his next project. Taking out a pencil, he started tracing a series of runes at the top. He also pulled out a scrap of parchment, as well as an Arithmancy text and an Ancient Runes text he had purchased at Florish & Blott's. They would help with the calculations.

When done, it would be a stark improvement on another piece of parchment he still had tucked away in his school trunk: the Marauder's map. This map he was creating would self-update wherever he might be.

He had spent an insane amount of time attempting to understand how the Marauder's map was created, and in fact it was only three years before his final confrontation with Voldemort he had finally cracked the secret. He had been able to do exactly what he was attempting at the moment, and it had worked famously. It was in fact key to his final victory.

Now, he continued scribbling out calculations, adding additional runes as they were calculated. It had taken him many hours to do it the first time, and this time would be no different. He finally went to bed as the clock red 2:00 am.

Just before 7 am, there was a knock at the door. "Harry, you wanted to make us breakfast, right?"
"Yeah, sure thing, Dud," Harry answered, grinning, as the room came into fuzzy focus. Yes, things were definitely better this summer than they ever had been. Slipping his glasses onto his face, he sat up, and started. The strange object he had upset in the room of requirement the day before now sat in the middle of his bedroom.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: A PLOT FOILED
NEXT CHAPTER: FLAT TRUNK
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Temporal Boundary Invasions": Chapter 1 - A Plot Foiled

2009-09-01T14:46:48Z

Something else I revisit, is Harry's relationship with Cedric. It is my favourite pairing for Harry, although it's not mainstream, like Harry/Draco... most unfortunate. This time around, Cedric is the dominant pairing, with a few others as a supporting cast. Could a harem be in the works? You'll have to wait & see. I should also mention, if you have the "HogwartsWizard" font installed, the titles will show up in that font (although it's not necessary). That said, let's get the show on the road...

Title: Harry Potter and the Temporal Boundary Invasions
Chapter Title: 1 - A Plot Foiled
Fandoms: Harry Potter/multiple
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~3,972
Warning(s): Violence, coarse language, character death, spoilers for "Deathly Hallows", "Order of the Phoenix", "Goblet of Fire".
Summary: Harry defeats Tom Riddle once and for all, but with nothing to live for, he leaps through the veil. Being thrown back in time was NOT the plan… Did the universe actually HATE him that much? The recovery of an ancient magical artefact may have the answers, and he just may gain a few powerful allies along the way... Part I: Encounters with an up-and-coming Muggle rock band.
Disclaimer: See first chapter

“...a long-hidden power once again becomes known, and the four from the one will have the power to vanquish the great threat... lead by the one who thrice vanquished the dark lord...” – Prophecy spoken by 8-year old Sarah Gilman, July 1995.

1: A PLOT FOILED
OR, THE END IS THE BEGINNING

"Avada kedavra!"
"Expelliarmus!"
It sounded like a cannon blast as the green jet from the Elder Wand collided with Harry's spell, and an instant later, a very haggard Harry Potter looked down on the empty shell that had been the worst dark wizard in recent history.

He slumped down on the steps rising up to the dais upon which the veil still fluttered freely, the voices whispering from behind it. Somewhere in there, in amongst all those voices, was Sirius. 'Mum, dad, I did it,' he whispered, rising to his shaky feet.

There was nothing left to live for. The gaping hole in the ceiling of the death chamber said it all. Magical Britain had been for the most part obliterated, the Statute of Wizarding Secrecy breached beyond recovery. The Muggle world had suffered far greater atrocities at the hand of Voldemort. Shouts from above and out in the ruined corridor warned the Boy-Who-Lived-now very much a man, he had little time left.

He had been on the run for several years, as the patch-work Wizarding government had declared him the number one undesirable. Through their lies and manipulations, the Muggle government saw him equally as a serious threat, resulting in numerous close calls with British authorities. He remembered hearing one particular news cast, warning citizens Do not approach, considered armed and dangerous, to contact authorities at once… what rubbish!

He was drawn back to the present, as the shouts became quite clear: "HARRY POTTER… DROP THE WAND AND PUT YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR!"
'Not on your life,' Harry cursed to himself, as he approached the fluttering veil. 'Mum, dad, Sirius, I'm coming,' he whispered, his hand almost touching the ratty fabric suspended in the arch way. The voices were speaking loudly now, although it was hard to decipher exactly what was being said, due to the number.
"HARRY POTTER. STOP WHERE YOU ARE!" came another shout, this time, from the entrance to the death chamber.
"Not on your life," said Harry, coldly, and stepped into the fluttering veil to fade from the mortal plane.

Harry was unsure of what to expect stepping into the veil, but, it felt like a port key. 'Wait… what am I holding?' he thought, and dared open his eyes. 'Merlin's Balls!' Tightly in his grip was the Tri-Wizard Cup! That meant…

He was suddenly slammed into the ground, and an uncomfortable moan beside him was all the confirmation he needed.
"Did anyone tell you it was a port key?"
"What? Err, no," answered Harry, daring to look at the speaker. He had to force himself to remain composed, as green eyes locked with grey ones. "Wands out," he declared, fishing his holly wand out. He'd missed that wand. 'That foul Umbridge woman…' Cedric had already drawn his own, and both teens got to their feet cautiously. Then Harry's memories took firm hold.
"Cedric, take my arm," said Harry, trusting his instinct, "The port key was a trap!"
"How do you know?"
"Just trust me… listen, someone's coming, he'll KILL you!"
"All right, I trust you," answered Cedric, gripping Harry's arm, just as a dark shape emerged from one of the tombs. "Kill the spare," came the high, cold voice, as Harry twisted on the spot, his scar already exploding in pain. Both Tri-Wizard champions vanished with an angry CRACK which sent a flock of crows on a nearby tree flapping into the night. A bolt of green magic passed through the spot Cedric had been standing in a fraction of a second earlier, to slam into a headstone.
"NOOOO!" came a shout to the night, which fell on deaf ears.

The two teens appeared at gates of the school, the closest either of them could get to Hogwarts by apparition. His scar was still tingling, and he quickly looked himself over to be sure he hadn't splinched himself-of course, it had been a number of years since that had been a concern. How had this happened? Why did he not just… pass on?
"Harry… you just…" Cedric began, bewildered. It pulled Harry rapidly back to the present.
"I know, I know… just, trust me, terrible things would have happened, had we stayed. If anyone asks-you know how to apparate?"
"Of course, although I have yet to actually get my license."
"If anyone asks, you apparated us back to the school… I'd rather people not know I can do so."
"Okay, Harry, but you owe me an explanation of what's going on."
"I promise you, Ced. Best we get back to the Quidditch pitch, let people know what's going on. And Cedric. Stay away from Moody, he's not who we think he is-AAAAAAAAH!!!" Harry's scar again flared in white-hot pain. Voldemort was beyond angry.

Harry and Cedric quickly made their way back to the Quidditch pitch, where the crowds were still gathered, waiting for the champions to return. It was a shock to everyone, as the two teens entered through the back entrance.
"Harry! How did you come to be there?" questioned Dumbledore.
"Sir, the Tri-Wizard cup was a trap, a port key. Cedric… he was almost killed… he grabbed me and-"
"Apparated us as close to the school as I could get," answered the older champion, covering for Harry.
"Professor, Voldemort tried to get his body back tonight… the entire tournament was a trap!" Harry exclaimed, fighting urges to spill more than he should know. There was a sharp intake of breath as several people close to him heard the Dark Lord's name. Cedric's father was already whispering softly to his son, while Dumbledore was eyeing Harry carefully. What had happened?
"The boys have been through an ordeal, allow me to take them back up to the castle, have them looked over by Madam Pomfrey perhaps," offered Professor Moody. He found himself staring at the business end of Harry's wand.
"You'll do well not to come within a hundred miles of me, Crouch!" Harry hissed. He'd almost slipped into speaking parselmouth. A look of shock crossed the professor's face for a fraction of a second, before he recovered. "The boy's obviously delirious," he declared.
"Prove you're not Crouch!" Harry hissed again, his hand wrapped so tightly around his wand his knuckles were turning white. "Swear to it! Swear it on your magic, here and now!"
"There's no need for that kind of behaviour toward a professor, Potter," said Professor McGonagall, standing behind the group.
"Trust me, he's no professor," Harry ground out, "Now swear it!"
"Perhaps it would be best to entertain the brat," Snape drawled. Crouch knew he was in trouble. How had the brat discovered his secret? His wand was out in a flash. 'Perhaps if I kidnap the brat-' he had no chance to finish the thought, as he was nailed with at least three stunning curses.
"I daresay, perhaps we should adjourn this to my office," said Dumbledore. It wasn't a request. "Severus, please fetch me the strongest truth serum you have, and join me in my office."(1)

The resultant meeting was truly an eye-opener, more for the staff than Harry. It was an eerie feeling, watching 'Moody' transform back into Barty Crouch, Jr. As soon as the transformation was finished, Severus forced Crouch's mouth open, administered three drops of Veritaserum, and the group waited for it to take effect. Dumbledore finally pointed his wand at the impostor. "Ennervate!"

Crouch's son opened his eyes. His face was slack, his gaze unfocused.
Dumbledore knelt before him, so that their faces were level.
"Can you hear me?" Dumbledore asked quietly. The man's eyelids flickered. "Yes," he muttered.
"Where is Alastor Moody?"
"In his trunk in my office."

The questioning continued while Professor McGonagall went to Moody's office, to free the real Alastor Moody. Harry was at war with himself mentally, so not to reveal too much of what he knew. How was it possible, that he had come back to this time with all his knowledge and memories intact? A twenty-six year old mind in a fourteen-going-on-fifteen-year-old body? 'Bloody hell, I'm gonna go spare!'

A more interesting revelation came when Crouch was questioned regarding the meeting at the beginning of the year.
"Yes, Pettigrew was there," answered Crouch, when asked about whether a certain rat had been present. Further questions revealed the true miscarriage of justice.
"That… that means… oh dear Merlin…" Fudge was astounded at the revelation.
"Yes, Minister, an innocent man was sent to rot in Azkaban for twelve fucking years," Harry spat.
"Mr. Potter! You will NOT use such language!" McGonagall scolded harshly.
"S-sorry. But I have to ask the Minister, what he intends to do about it."
"And what stake might you have in Mr. Black's case, Potter?" questioned Fudge, sourly. 'If this hits the Prophet, heads will roll,' he thought, 'probably starting with mine.'
"Maybe the tiny little fact he's my godfather," Harry shot back, "What, did you think I wouldn't know that? There are some people around here that make an attempt at being honest with me. I'll spell it out so there can't be any misunderstanding. I have a job to do. Either help me to do it, or stay out of my way. That means, no secrets. No manipulations. No tricks."
"What are you implying, Harry?" questioned Dumbledore, uneasily. 'It's too soon,' he thought, 'The boy cannot know the secret just yet!'
"I think you know, sir. I asked you at the end of first year, in the hospital wing. Why did Voldemort want to kill me? So now I'm asking again. I have a RIGHT to know what I'm fighting."
"Harry, I do agree with you, however, at this very moment is not quite the time for that kind of discussion. If you will give me a few days. I promise you we shall meet again before the end of term, so you may get answers to some of your questions."
"I will hold you to it, sir."
"For now, let's get you down for a check up with Madam Pomfrey," McGonagall decided, "Since it appears we have gained all the information we will from Mr. Crouch." Harry nodded, and made his way to the door. He was about to open it, but stopped. "Oh, and by the way, Minister," Harry spoke, taking his hand off the door handle, "You might want to keep the Dementors away from Barty here, I would like to see him get a proper trial." His unspoken warning carried strongly in his voice.

The Hospital wing was still slightly busy, with the other three champions still in beds, being looked after by the resident healer. Mr. and Mrs. Diggory were crowded around their son's bed, looking more than relieved Cedric was okay. 'That was an understatement,' he thought to himself. He realized then an there, it was one of the things that truly broke him-that, and the death of Sirius, with the death of Dumbledore a close third. The thing was, 'what now?' Everything he knew of the previous timeline… quite possibly went completely out the window. Voldemort had not been able to regain a body. Cedric was still alive. Most importantly, Fudge knew of Pettigrew's treachery.
"I was wondering when to expect you, Harry," said Madam Pomfrey, "You may take that bed." She pointed to a bed between Cedric's and the real Alastor Moody.
"Will… will he be okay?" questioned Harry, gesturing to the sleeping man.
"He'll be just fine," answered the matron, handing him a pair of pyjamas, and pulling the screen around the bed. Just then, he heard the door to the hospital wing open, and voices burst into the room.
"Harry?!" 'Of course, Hermione,' Harry thought to himself. He had sorely missed her for the past few years; she was one of the first of his close friends to be taken by Voldemort. Her body had never been found.
"Over here, guys," Harry called.

A crowd of bodies made their way around the curtain. Most of the Weasleys were there, as was Hermione, and a large black dog. He wasted no time leaping up onto the bed, looking at Harry expectantly. Seeing the faces of his dear friends, and those he considered family brought a broad smile to his face. In fact, thinking of the current situation, for a fleeting moment, he felt like the cat who had caught the canary.

The early hours of the next morning, Harry felt someone settle down beside him in the bed; he didn't need to wonder who it was, as an arm snaked across his torso. He let out a sigh, and did not wake again until the light was streaming through the windows.

While Harry slept, Albus Dumbledore was still wide awake, sitting in his office, having viewed the memory of the evening's event at least three times in the pensieve. Something had changed in Harry, something profound. Something which had nothing to do with the unscheduled port key trip to Little Hangleton-he had sent some of his most trusted friends to investigate-no, something had changed Harry. It would be imperative to have that discussion sooner rather than later, Dumbledore decided. Fawkes, the bright red phoenix resting on his perch seemed to agree, letting out a pleasant trill. "Yes, I know, we must have his trust, Fawkes. What he wants to know is something I had really hoped I could hold off for perhaps one more year."
"You'll do no good keeping the boy in the dark forever, Albus," the portrait of Armando Dippet scolded, "You're handling young Potter in a similar way to that of Riddle; surely one Dark Lord is enough."
"Harry will never turn to the dark arts," said Dumbledore, with conviction, "His capacity to love would never allow it." He collected the memory floating in the pensieve back into a vial, then dumped the contents of yet another. The memory which he was most reluctant to show Harry. It was the one thing that set everything into motion. Just then, there was a knock at the door.
"Come in, Minerva," said Albus. The door opened, revealing the deputy headmistress. "It seems I am not the only one up in the wee hours of the morning."
"Indeed, Albus. I've just come from the hospital wing. The Diggory boy wasted no time deserting his own bed to share Potter's."
"Is that so?" questioned Dumbledore, his eyes twinkling again. Of course he knew all about the two champions' numerous rendezvous after hours. He was the headmaster after all.
"It would have been a true disaster, had one of them been killed," McGonagall declared, "I don't need to spell it out, do I?"
"No, of course not. It's only by Mr. Diggory's quick reaction they escaped. I do believe there will be a few adjustments to house points in light of last night's events, yes."
"Oh, Albus, I don't think we should be worrying about house points and the like, considering the dark implications. How could you not have known one of your most trusted friends was in fact a Death Eater?"
"It's something I have trouble answering, Minerva. And, it's something that will not happen again. Perhaps I need to revise a few procedures for the staff, in light of this error on my part."
"It's best you do. I really do not wish to take on your responsibilities full-time. I do have one question. Did you notice the change in Harry's behaviour?"
"Somewhat. He seems to have suddenly developed a bit of an edge. I was quite taken aback hearing him use such awful language earlier, in front of the Minister, no less. What are your thoughts on this?"
"I'm still puzzled as to what might have brought it on. I've not known Harry to take that sort of tone, at least not against one of us. In hindsight, he was right, but-"
"How did he know it wasn't Moody?" McGonagall finished.
"I ask the same question. Perhaps when I meet with him, I will be sure to ask. Information, after all, is a two way street, is it not? Lemon drop?" Dumbledore offered, gesturing to the candy dish resting on the corner of the desk, from which he plucked a candy.

When Harry next woke, a smile crept onto his face. Not only was Sirius curled up at the foot of the bed as Padfoot, his Animagus form, Cedric had climbed into his bed as well, and now lay beside Harry, an arm draped across his chest as though to protect the younger boy. 'Younger boy?' Harry almost snorted, 'Bloody hell, how did this happen?' he thought to himself. What would Hermione say? What would Dumbledore think? 'No,' Harry thought, 'There are a good number of people who can't ever know what's happened.' Yet, how was he going to explain the previous night's actions to Cedric? Yes, it was going to be an uncomfortable conversation. 'Then again,' thought Harry, 'If I can't trust Cedric, who CAN I trust?' He dug into his recent memories, quickly sorting out the events of the previous evening-he would have done so much sooner, had Madam Pomfrey not dosed him with a strong dreamless sleep potion.

It had taken him several years to fully grasp Occlumency and its reciprocal, Legilimency. Sure, the art was heavily-restricted by the Ministry, but that had never stopped Harry before, considering that, beginning the middle of what would have been his fifth year, he became a fugitive. The Ministry pursued him relentlessly, and far worse once Voldemort took over. He knew more than a few dark curses, each one of them would make his friends or the Order cringe.

Harry was woken up by someone gently prodding at his ribs. "Harry, mate…"
"Mmmm?" He moaned, then smiled as Cedric's face filled his vision.
"How are you feeling?"
"Much better, now," answered Harry.
"Can we talk?"
"Now's as good a time as any." Harry gestured with his hand. At Cedric's curious glance, he said, "Privacy charm."
"Wandless?"
"Uh huh. One of a few things I can do now. Cedric, something happened to me, last night… when we were port keyed out of the maze."
"So I noticed."
"I need a wizard's oath that you won't reveal what I'm about to tell you to anyone." He nudged the large black dog at his feet. "You too, Padfoot… I know you're listening." The dog seemed to make a sigh, hopped off the bed, and transformed back into Sirius. "What…"
"The oath first, please, both of you."
"All right," his godfather nodded, producing his wand. "I, Sirius Orion Black, swear on my magic, that I shall not reveal any of the following conversation to anyone for any reason." A swirl of golden magic wafted from Sirius' chest, to hover over Harry's head.
"So mote it be."

Once Cedric gave his oath, Harry gave an abbreviated and highly edited account of the future, earning more than a few shocked looks from his boyfriend and his godfather. He hated to admit it, but it just wouldn't be safe telling Ron or Hermione, at least not at this point. As loyal as they were, as the old saying goes, 'loose lips sink ships'. Even though he could get a magical oath from them, the fewer people who knew, the better.

Just then, he felt the ward he had erected around the screen vibrate-someone had just entered the hospital wing. With a quick gesture from his hand, he banished the privacy charm and the ward. "Mischief managed," he whispered.
"What was that for?"
"It ends the conversation covered by your oaths," answered Harry. Moments later, the screen parted and Madam Pomfrey appeared. Sirius had once again changed into Padfoot, but Harry could swear the dog was grinning at the use of the Marauders' secret code. The matron pursed her lips at the sight of the two boys cuddled in one bed.
"I should have known I would find the both of you in one bed. Up you get, the both of you. I don't believe I need to keep either of you here any longer," she declared, gesturing at both teens with her wand. She nodded, then left the screen.

The ride back to London was much better than the first time around, as Cedric now sat in the compartment with Harry and his two closest friends. A sack of coins rested between them, but a decision had already been made on what to do with it. Harry had wanted to put a strong locking charm on the door, but that would prevent the twins from visiting. No, he would allow Malfoy and his cronies to visit as well-not that he would have any issues handling him.

When the train at last arrived at King's Cross, Harry and Cedric pulled the twins aside.
"Guys… we want you to have this," said Harry, thrusting the sack of coins into George's hand.
"Err…" Fred was stunned, as was his brother.
"We think you will get much better use out of it than we will," said Cedric.
"Mental," said George.
"Both of them," Fred added.
"Guys, no, we're not… it's just… look, the entire tournament's left a bad taste in both our mouths-for different reasons, but… just take it… get inventing. Use it for the joke shop."
"Yup, definitely mental," said Fred.
"Look, guys, we're serious," said Cedric, "If you don't take it, Harry's gonna dump it down the drain."
"You wouldn't!"
"The nerve!"
"And get Ron some better dress robes," said Harry, "And whatever you do, don't tell your mum where you got it… I might like to live to see adulthood."

Stepping through the barrier, Harry found uncle Vernon waiting as had been the case the first time around, Mrs. Weasley waiting close by. "I think Dumbledore will let you come visit later in the summer. Do keep in touch, Harry."
"See you, Harry," said Ron, clapping him on the back.
"Bye, Harry, be sure to write me, okay?" said Hermione. Unlike the first time around, there was no kiss on the cheek.
"Harry… Cedric, thanks," said George, quietly, while Fred grinned madly at his side. Harry winked at them, then turned to face Cedric, while the Weasleys headed off as a group.
"I'll come see you in a few days, Harry."
"I'll not… there won't-" Vernon sputtered, but Harry glared at him. "WE will be having a conversation when we get back to Surry," said Harry, icily, then turned back to Cedric. "That will be great!" After a strong embrace and a kiss on the forehead, Cedric too, went his own way, leaving Harry standing with his uncle.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Things move pretty quickly here, as Harry realizes the opportunity he's been given (although if given the choice he would have gone on to be with his parents, Sirius, and the number of friends he lost). He's wasted no time, preventing Cedric's death, and equally importantly, the rebirth of Voldemort. Those are some significant changes, all in the matter of a couple hours. Thing is, the butterfly effect will kick in pretty quickly, will it not?

(1) Taken from GoF, verbatim text.

PREVIOUS CHAPTER: PROLOGUE
NEXT CHAPTER: 2 - LAYING A NEW FOUNDATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS

"Fate Twice Defied" - Chapter 24 - The Consequences of Plan "B"

2009-08-22T06:35:26Z

Most impressive that I've been able to hammer out two chapters so close together. Although, this one's a fair bit shorter than the last. But you will probably see a few similarities between it and canon "Deathly Hallows". Some things occur the same way, while some things occur differently.

Title: Fate Twice Defied
Chapter Title: 24 - The Consequences of Plan "B"
Fandoms: Harry Potter/T: Sarah Connor Chronicles
Pairing: Harry Potter/John Connor
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~3,028
Warning(s): Violence, coarse language.
Summary: The summer following 5th year, Harry Potter decides to start looking out for No. 1, and that included a change of scenery. Meeting another boy with similar problems, was NOT the idea. xover with Sarah Connor Chronicles. SLASH! eventual HarryxJohn
Disclaimer: See first chapter
Chapter Summary: Another bout of manipulations on the part of Albus has consequences; Harry and Voldemort meet yet again.

24: THE CONSEQUENCES OF PLAN "B"

"NO!" came John's strangled cry.
"Albus, we have the perfect opportunity to end this madness once and for all," said Severus, his voice level, as both boys locked in a tight embrace, each trying to comfort the other.
"We will need to port key as many individuals to Hogsmeade as possible. I shall organize the Order in that regard. Severus, I will need you to take Harry to Voldemort…"
"What?!" Harry blurted, "You mean, you… you've been PLANNING this from the beginning?!" Sadness was rapidly being replaced by anger, his temper boiling to the surface. Typical, so FUCKING typical, he shouted in his head.
"NO! You won't do anything like that!" John shouted, his nine-millimeter gun now aimed at the headmaster's head, "You're all out of your minds if you think I will let you do something that stupid! Harry's NOT gonna die…"
"I'm afraid there isn't much choice in the matter, Mr. Connor," answered Albus, "Please put your weapon away." The only answer was a click as John released the safety on the gun.
"John, don't," said Harry, trying to rein in his temper. As angry as he was…
"Expelliarmus!" The gun flew from John's hand, into Severus'.
"Stupefy!" shouted Harry, in response.
"Protego!" Severus answered.
"Harry, this is not productive," said Albus, also drawing his wand, and pointing it at the boy-who-lived. Now he was facing two very powerful wizards. 'Great, as if it can't get any worse!' he roared in his head.
"Stu-" Albus' wand was thrust at John.
"Expelliarmus!" shouted Harry. Shockingly, the headmaster's wand was stripped from his hand, to fly into his own.
"STUPEFY!" shouted Severus, and Harry's world faded to black.

oOo

When the world came back into focus, he realized he was in the great hall back at Hogwarts. Not the island, but the castle. There were subtle differences, after all. The tables were all gone, and far more disturbing, he was surrounded by at least a dozen Death Eaters. His scar again seemed to burst open, as his mortal enemy stepped into view.
"We meet again, Harry Potter," said Voldemort, pacing in a circle, Dumbledore's wand in his hand. Harry realized he couldn't move, bound by conjured ropes. "You have done well, Severus, more than proving your loyalty. This more than excuses your absence."
"It was the most opportune moment," answered Severus, "Both he and the old fool believed I was working for the light. It should be some time before the old coot regains consciousness, should his heart be up to it." Harry looked at Severus, questioning, but heard the potion master's voice in his head: "Play along with me, Harry." Severus then turned back to Voldemort, saying, "Oh yes, I had them all fooled. Dumbledore had me teaching the brat Occlumency again this school year, and during the most recent, he informed me you would be traveling to Hogwarts this night to check on something."
"Indeed," said Voldemort, "Through our 'connection', I would assume."
"So I took the opportunity to stun and capture the brat immediately following our lesson. Now, Master, tonight, we shall finish what was began over sixteen years ago."
"You are so right, Severus. This boy has been the bane of my existence. And tonight, we shall finish what I have begun. Perhaps it would be better if he were allowed to at least stand and face me." Voldemort gestured with the wand, banishing the ropes, and Harry scrambled to his feet, staring defiantly back at the Dark Lord. He knew it was the only way. There would be a storm of people flooding the castle within a few minutes, he was sure. With him gone and the final Horcrux destroyed, Voldemort would be mortal again, and although powerful, he knew Dumbledore was just as powerful-if not more so. His death would not be in vain.
"I should think it will be rather ironic, that I kill you with your own wand," Voldemort spoke, seeming to inspect the wand. He hesitated for a moment. "Good bye, Harry," and with a shriek to the night and a blinding flash of green magic, his world once again went dark.

oOo

The smell of fresh flowers assaulted him, and as the rest of his senses came back to him, he realized he was laying face-down in the grass somewhere. 'I should be dead,' Harry thought to himself, as he slowly opened his eyes. A two-storey cottage lay before him, the hedges neatly trimmed, the grass freshly mowed. More importantly, two figures stood before it, gazing at Harry, broad smiles on their faces. He knew immediately who they were. "Mum? Dad?" Lily nodded and smiled again, as did James. James was a carbon copy of Harry, his hair messy as ever, glasses lop-sided like those of Mr. Weasley.
"We are so proud of you, Harry," said Lily, still smiling broadly, as they made their way over to where Harry was then sitting up in the grass. "You've been so brave."

Harry was held speechless for several moments, as conflicting emotions raged in his head. Finally finding his tongue, and fighting off the urge to collapse into tears, he questioned, "Am I dead?"
"No, I think not," came another voice. Harry wheeled to see Cedric stepping through the low gate in the hedge. He offered his hand, and Harry wasted no time in taking it.
"But… I should have died! I let him kill me!"
"Should have, but didn't," said James, "All because of something Voldemort did to regain his body."
"He… he took my blood," said Harry.
"Yes, he did. Part of the very protection which resides in your blood due to my sacrifice, dear. And that made all the difference in the world."
"But…"
"Harry, don't you see? Him using your blood… it has placed your mother's protection, or a small part of it, inside of Voldemort. He tethered you to life as long as he lives!"
"But… isn't that backwards?"
"Harry, mate, those are questions better asked of Dumbledore," said Cedric, "Our time is growing short."
"We are truly proud of you, Harry," said James, both of his parents once again smiling broadly.
"Now you have a choice," said Cedric.
"If you come with us into the house, you will go on," said Lily.
"You mean, to stay with you guys?"
"Yes."
"If you come with me back out the gate, you will return from whence you came. If you do so, there's a good chance You-Know-Who can be finished for good. There's no guarantee," said Cedric.
"But realize, Harry," said James, "You have less to fear from returning here than Voldemort does."

Harry thought about things for several moments, then made up his mind. "I have to go back."
"Then come give your mother and I a hug. And it had better be a long time before we see each other again."
"No kidding… dad," said Harry, his voice lowering to barely a whisper, as he embraced his parents for the first time. It was something he had wanted so dearly, and now, for a fleeting moment, that wish was fulfilled.
"Remember no matter what," said Lily, "We each love you very much. Whenever you feel alone, remember we are always watching you. We'll ALWAYS be with you"
"As will I," said Cedric, as Harry felt two strong hands grip him about the shoulders. He turned around, and equally embraced his first love. "Like James and Lily, so will I be watching over you. I'll always be right here…" Cedric put a hand over Harry's chest.

It took every ounce of mental resolve not to break down on the spot. He only nodded, knowing if he opened his mouth no coherent words would come out. Cedric seemed to know this, leaned down, and kissed Harry deeply. It only lasted a second or so, but for Harry, it was a lifetime.
"It's time to go," said Lily.
Harry nodded, feeling a strange charge building in the air. He took Cedric's hand, and began walking toward the gate.
"Oh, and Harry?" Lily called.
"Yeah?"
"Next time you see Severus, let him know I said thank you for looking out for you."
"I will, mum," Harry answered, and they stepped through the gate, at which time, Harry's world again faded to black.

oOo

Harry found himself once again on the floor of the great hall, his body aching from head to toe, particularly where the killing curse had struck.
"Well? Is the boy dead?" came a question.
"Check him," instructed Voldemort.
"No need to," said Harry, sitting up while simultaneously producing his holly wand from its disillusioned holster on his forearm.
"WHAT-WHAT IS THIS?!" Voldemort roared, "It's trickery!"
"No, it's not, Tom," said Harry, swiftly getting to his feet. At the same time, there were shouts from outside the great hall-Harry guessed it was the Order arriving, and it couldn't have been more timely.
"But…" Voldemort, for a fleeting second, looked bewildered, perhaps a little frightened. He KNEW he had struck the boy with the killing curse. How was it he managed to survive it yet again?! He once again levelled Dumbledore's wand at Harry.
"No brother wands this time, Tom," said Harry.
"So we duel on skill alone," Voldemort sneered, his wand poised even higher. Harry caught a glimpse of Albus and a number of the order making their way in to surround the Death Eaters.
"Defeat me you might, Tom, but you will still have to deal with them. And I believe you are now missing the one thing you thought you could count on. You do know what I'm talking about?" Once again, Voldemort looked unnerved, although it only lasted a fraction of a second. The Order had then completely encircled the group of Death Eaters, with Harry and Voldemort still staring each other down at the centre.

A slight movement off to the side was all the distraction needed.
"Avada Kedavra!"
"Expelliarmus!"
A brilliant flash of golden flames erupted from the spot where the two spells collided, from which there came a tremendous BANG. The green jet of Voldemort's killing curse met Harry's disarming spell, and Voldemort was sent flying into the wall, the stolen wand flying high in the air, into Harry's hand.

The room fell into shocked silence for several seconds, until reality set in. Voldemort, otherwise known as Tom Marvolo Riddle, was dead. His snake-like body lay slumped up against the side wall of the great hall, slit-like red eyes staring unblinkingly at the ceiling. Harry was standing over the fallen wizard, both wands brandished over it, as though deciding what to do.

It was then pandemonium reigned. Belletrix lashed out with her own wand, only to be hit with three separate stunners. Several other Death Eaters had attempted to attack or escape, with each meeting a similar fate. The rest only remained fixed where they were, wisely holding their hands away from their sides in a gesture of surrender.
"All right there, Harry?" Harry turned to find Severus beside him.
"I… I'm fine, sir," answered Harry, as both continued to stare down at the vanquished Dark Lord.
"Harry… I would… we never…" Severus took a breath, then said, "Thank you."
"No, thank YOU, sir. I know you and I haven't gotten along well, but… thank you for looking out for me. Not just from me, but… from mum as well."
"Your mother… how?"
"When Voldemort hit me with the killing curse… I ended up at my parents' house… I spoke with them for a time," answered Harry, "I'll share a pensieve memory later… you more than deserve that. And sir… I forgive you."
"For?"
"How you treated me. I know it was hard for you to look at me and not see my dad… I'm the spitting image."
"It is most difficult to separate you from your father, Harry. I only realized it when we resumed Occlumency lessons in the summer."
"Yes, I remember that."
"You have your mother's eyes. You're as much her son as James'."
"If you two are quite finished, I might have a word with Harry." Both turned to find Albus behind them, eyes twinkling madly. "Congratulations, Harry."

Harry's eyes could be best described as emerald ice-chips, as he glared back at the headmaster. "You. Oh, we will be having a lengthy conversation, sir," Harry ground out, the mood instantly darkening. He had been manipulated for the LAST time.
"I do believe we have a few things to discuss, indeed," said Albus, "The first of which being me reclaiming my wand."
"You know, I think I might like to hold onto this one," said Harry, darkly, twirling the headmaster's wand between his fingers, "It seems to like me."
"Indeed, considering it is the most powerful wand in existence."
"What do you mean?"
"It's a conversation better held up in my office."
"Sir, right now, I want to get back to my partner and make sure he isn't going spare."
"We've already seen to your partner," said Severus, "He's been apprised of the plan."
"Oh, I see," said Harry, sarcastically.
"Harry, it was the only way this could have worked," Albus persisted, "Had we explained too much, you most likely wouldn't have gone along with it."
"Professor… I will never be able to trust you again," Harry vowed, and nailed the dead Dark Lord with another curse, making the body twitch. 'I need to get out of here, 'fore I do something I regret,' he thought to himself, 'too bad I can't apparate…" There was a loud CRACK, and he found himself in the headmaster's office. "What the bloody hell?!"
"Language, Mr. Potter," chided one of the few portraits which remained.
"I… how did I do that?!"
"Indeed," said the portrait, "The castle must have understood your need."
"I… I need to get back to the island."
"Use the floo. The headmaster's office at the temporary location is connected. The address is 'Headmaster's temporary office'."
"Thanks." Harry lit a fire in the grate using his wand, took a handful of floo powder from the pot hanging beside the fireplace, tossed it into the fire, then stepped in, saying, "Headmaster's temporary office!" He vanished in the green flames.

He was ejected unceremoniously into a heap on the floor of the temporary office. He was immediately pulled into a near-bone-breaking hug by John, and Sirius. "Harry? You all right?"
"Yes and no," he answered darkly.
"What happened? Voldemort attacked the school didn't he?" Of course, Hermione and Ron were there too. Didn't surprise him.
"Yeah, he attacked the castle. Guys… he's gone. I killed him for good this time."
"You're not a Horcrux then?" said John.
"Not any more. My mum's protection kept me alive again when Voldemort hit me with the killing curse… but… it destroyed the Horcrux."
"Of course, it makes perfect sense!" said Hermione, "When Voldemort got his body back, he used your blood!"
"As my mum told me," Harry agreed.
"How… how did you see your mom?" questioned John.
"Guys, better take a seat," said Harry, summoning Albus' pensieve from the shelf. He used the headmaster's wand to draw out a thin wisp that was the recent memory of his meeting with his parents, and allowed the trail to drop into the pensieve. "All right, everyone put a finger in…"

When they returned, Sirius was fuming. "I'm gonna hex him three ways from Sunday!" he vowed.
"Not if I do it first," Harry growled.
"But Harry, it's over! You did it!" Ron pointed out.
"Yes, great, but at whose expense?!" Harry was ready to burst, "We're not fucking chess pieces!"
"Well said, Harry," Sirius put in, a dark look still on his face.
"You're all right, though?" John questioned again.
"Yeah, fine. Need a mild pain numbing draught maybe, but other than that…" he put a hand to his chest, where the killing curse had struck him. He knew most likely there would be a bruise there. It felt like he had been struck in the chest with a bludger.
"The hospital wing, then," Sirius decided, and the group popped out of the office.

After a quick check up from Madam Pomfrey, the group retreated to the private section of the library. Sarah and Derek were huddled around a smaller table off to the side, working with several firearms. Marcus and Cameron were at a computer, and by the looks of it, they were continuing to comb through the extensive memory from the fallen machine that still lay on the island's beach.
"Well? Everyone okay?" questioned Derek, looking up.
"Yeah, fine," said Harry, dropping heavily into a seat at the conference table. John wasted no time claiming the seat beside him.
"So… what happened?" questioned Sarah.
"I fulfilled the prophecy," said Harry, his voice barely above a whisper. The reality was just setting in, and it finally hit him like a stampeding herd of hippogriffs.

One would have expected the chosen one to jump up for joy, or dance a jig, or SOMETHING. No, instead, Harry simply put his face in his hands, and wept. It was over. No more Death Eaters. No more nasty visions. No more 'visits' from Tom. It was done, and the thought overwhelmed him.

AUTHOR'S NOTES:This could have been much longer, but I'm one to keep the waffle to a minimum. I kept to the original spirit of Deathly Hallows, because I believe that was truly a powerful ending. Of course, the road taken to get to that point has changed quite a bit, as has the 'dead' scene. I note that there are a few pieces borrowed directly from the book, once again a big nod to JKR there.

Now. This story is most certainly NOT over. There will be fallout from this, you can be sure, and of course, there is still a threat from SkyNET. Once that is dealt with, I'll see where things stand. I might make a short epilogue, or perhaps carry on.

Previous Chapter: 23 - Descent Into Darkness
Next Chapter: 25 - End Game
Table Of Contents

New story taking shape...

2009-08-20T02:57:07Z

I waste no time, as "Fate Twice Defied" nears completion. Another story which has been simmering in the back of my twisted mind has at last boiled over, and is making its way to the written page.

I'm a sucker for crossovers, and while loads of people may not, it is truly a work of art when the author manages to balance not one, but two worlds. Even rarer, is to take more than two realms... so you have, say, Harry Potter, travelling first to that of "Pirates of the Caribbean", then, maybe to, let's say, "Narnia"... an interesting concept, no? Of course, I have combined Harry's world with Narnia myself (and that story WILL be finished some day, I promise!), but alas, I'm growing off-topic.

So now let's look at the lovely icon which accompanies this article. Those in the HP universe already know two of the characters... the third? Cookies if you know >:D Nah, I'll just let the cat out of the bag, so to say.

As an eleven-year-old kid, the movie which this third character comes from scared the daylights out of me. A clue... "OUTLANDER!!" *smirks*

So, now you're probably wondering, how the hell does Harry end up in a little town in Nebraska that happens to be infested with a kid-cult who worships a demonic force in a corn field? Why, a nifty item called a Temporal Displacement Device, of course. Throw in a little bit of happenstance, and a bit of *clears throat & does best Snape-imitation* "Gryffindor stupidity"

Ready for a fresh crop of zany goodness? The first chapter should be forthcoming, hopefully in the next couple of days.

"Fate Twice Defied" - Chapter 23 - Descent Into Darkness

2009-08-17T16:56:48Z

Loads of action in this chapter, everyone. I also now have a pretty good idea on how I will deal with SkyNET. So, the main part of the story is nearing completion. I do plan on running a few chapters afterward, since there are things that will have to be dealt with AFTER Voldemort's gone, right? Either way, I do present chapter 23 of "Fate Twice Defied"...

Title: Fate Twice Defied
Chapter Title: 23 - Descent Into Darkness
Fandoms: Harry Potter/T: Sarah Connor Chronicles
Pairing: Harry Potter/John Connor
Story Rating: PG-13
Chapter Word count: ~4,777
Warning(s): Drug use, violence, coarse language, character death. SIGNIFICANT Spoilers for DH.
Summary: The summer following 5th year, Harry Potter decides to start looking out for No. 1, and that included a change of scenery. Meeting another boy with similar problems, was NOT the idea. xover with Sarah Connor Chronicles. SLASH! eventual HarryxJohn
Disclaimer: See first chapter
Chapter Summary: Death Eaters strike Diagon Alley, the Ministry of Magic, and St. Mungo's; Bill and Travis go out on a date, which is rudely interrupted; Voldemort makes a startling discovery; Harry gets some most unsettling news.

2: DESCENT INTO DARKNESS

The morning of October 1st proved to be the darkest yet for Wizarding Britain. The Statute of Secrecy was under serious threat as it was, and that morning's blatant attack frayed it more so.

It came suddenly, as shops in Diagon Alley were just opening, with a swarm of black shapes descending on the alley, much like a swarm of black flies. With deadly accuracy, shop after shop was blasted into oblivion, smoke quickly rising into the bright morning sky.

The alarm had already sounded at the Ministry of Magic, as it had inside Gringotts-Goblins swiftly took up defensive positions both inside and outside the building. Most unfortunately, Fudge was still underestimating the true threat Voldemort and his followers presented, and in that precious wasted time, nearly a dozen witches and wizards were felled by the onslaught.

Many shop owners, realizing the danger at once, floo'ed elsewhere, sending out alarms of their own. It was lucky only a portion of the shops were still operating; many had already fled the country, wishing to protect their own. Others had disappeared, much like had been the normal occurrence during the first war with Voldemort.

oOo

It was really late… or was it really early? The original plan of having a nice dinner together had turned into an all-night affair for Bill and Travis, as they currently found themselves at an after-hours club in Toronto's west end. The air was thick with a haze of smoke, among other things, while the loud techno music made it almost impossible to hear each other without screaming. Sweaty bodies ground against each other, making it feel almost claustrophobic, but that was just fine with Travis. It had been far too long since he had been able to let loose. It was even more amusing, seeing his much older boyfriend matching him toe-to-toe on just about everything. Not surprising, it was exactly that which drew him to older guys: they tended to have the right amount of experience in the right places.

Currently, the two of them were just holding each other, not really dancing. Bill could tell Travis was tiring. "Come on, let's sit down," he spoke into the teen's ear. A nod, and the two of them weaved their way through the crowd, to the edge of the room. Discreetly casting a temporary Muggle-repelling charm, Bill freed up a table, one of a very few available in the club.
"Probably best we be getting back soon," said Bill. Travis nodded, "Give me a minute, let me finish this." He drew out a half-finished joint, and lit it again. "Want a drag?"
"Sure." Travis passed the lit joint, then moved his chair closer, so their bodies touched. "Much better." Bill drew a long haul off the joint, then passed it back.
"So… have you thought about what I asked… I mean, Harry and John… they're…"
"Mr. Fisher, are you asking me to marry you?"
"Um… well…"
"If that's truly what you're asking… you know I'm ten years older than you…"
"So? Dude, I know we haven't known each other that long… but this… it feels more right than… than any one I've known… oh for fuck sake, I'm babbling like an idiot!"
"Don't think I don't realize our mutual attraction, Travis. Gods, you're more mature than I would have expected. When we first met… it is chemistry at work, and I won't deny it. I would be honoured to take your name." The two of them locked in a tight embrace, ending with a lingering kiss.
"Well, now, ain't that special!" a voice sneered, jarring the pair out of their moment. The speaker had a shaved head, and numerous tattoos, a number of them expressing less-than-pleasant opinions. "So, who let the queers in, I gotta wonder?"
"Mate, whatever the problem you have, take it elsewhere," said Bill, coolly.
"No, see, you ARE the problem," the guy answered icily, "We don't need your type here, right Eddie?"
"Oh, exactly right, Dale," answered another, stepping from behind the first. A third also joined the 'posse', as it appeared they were.
"Wow, didn't realize we'd dropped into a redneck zone," Travis groaned, "Look, you really don't wanna fuck with us."
"Oh, I strongly doubt you could ever threaten us, you and your BOYFRIEND here," the guy named Dale sneered, reaching into his pocket. Travis had already drew his wand, and now levelled it at the potential threats from under the table. As expected, Dale had drawn a gun.
"You really want to pull something like that, with a crowd of people around? Not all that bright, are we?" said Travis, calmly.
"No, we won't do anything in here. That's why we're going outside. Both of you, get up!" the guy named Eddie shouted.
"No, I don't think we will," said Bill, "You really don't want to cause trouble here." He nodded toward Travis, who seemed to be on the same page. The attackers seemed to be unfazed, as all three of them made a step toward the table.

At precisely that moment, Travis felt something get very warm in his pocket. A fake Galleon Harry had passed him, a method to keep in touch-the same way he had communicated with the DA the previous year.
"We gotta go," said Travis, turning back to glare at the homophobic asses that had decided to interrupt their evening.
"Blasting charm, or memory charms?"
"Memory charms, I think," answered Travis with a shrug, "They aren't good for much else."
"Your charms or whatever-"
"OBLIVIATE!" came Travis and Bill's combined voices, leaving the three attackers wondering how they came to be standing in the club, the activities of the past eight hours forgotten.
"Notice-me-not?" Bill nodded, and Travis quickly cast said charm. "Let's go."

Five minutes later, they entered the great hall, the arranged meeting location for the Defence Association. It seemed well over a quarter of the school was already present, as were most of the staff.
"What's going on?" questioned Travis, finally meeting up with Harry.
"Voldemort… attacked Diagon Alley… loads of injuries," he answered quietly, "People are coming here."
"Good thing Fred and George are here," said Ron, "I heard their shop was destroyed… Ollivander's here, so is Madam Malkin."
"And where were you guys? Gone all day, you missed all your classes, Travis," Hermione scolded.
"I was… look, we have bigger fish to fry right now… like… I mean, was anyone we know injured?" questioned Travis.
"That's a question we're still trying to answer, Mr. Fisher," answered Minerva, "It was a good thing we were able to reach you."
"Anyone here missing, Professor?" questioned Bill. Minerva shook her head, "No, luckily there's not. Albus has gone with Minister Bones to deliver a statement to the ICW. Severus is working with Madam Pomfrey in treating the injured. I need those with skill to assist once again in providing quarters for our newcomers."
"I'll get people organized-" Harry let out a howl of pain, as his scar again seared with pain. He was then striding purposely through the alley, surveying the damage orchestrated by his Death Eaters. No building had escaped the onslaught, and smoke continued to pour into the early fall sky. The Aurors had arrived, only to be driven back from whence they came, through the portal into the Leaky Cauldron.

Voldemort lazily gestured at a more colourful storefront that still seemed to resist the efforts of his followers. 'Ah, the infamous Weasley Twins,' he thought, before again thrusting his wand at the storefront, an evil smirk forming on his face. It exploded in a blast of smoke and flame, which seconds later seemed to plunge the entire alley into pitch blackness(1). 'Peruvian instant-darkness powder, why does that not surprise me?' Voldemort mused, again gesturing with his wand, and the world seemed to come back into focus. He made a mental note to procure a quantity of said powder for his own use, then began making his way toward the Leaky Cauldron and its entrance. He again thrust with his wand, blasting away the secret gate with a shower of dust and bricks, then strode into the pub, another curse ready at the end of his wand.

There were a number of witches and wizards using the floo to escape the attack. Voldemort gestured with his wand again, blasting the outer doors into a pile of wreckage. That sent the fleeing witches and wizards into a panic, pushing and shoving for their turn at the grate. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips, as he sent a bolt of angry green magic toward a middle-aged wizard, dressed in Muggle clothing. Only a Muggle-born would dress that way, after all.

A red bolt of magic sailed over Voldemort's head, and he turned to face the source of the attack. Who would dare attack he, the Dark Lord? A flash of green magic, and the gentle proprietor of the Leaky Cauldron slumped behind the bar, never to serve again.

He stormed back outside, back through the now clear alley, toward the white edifice that was Gringotts. The wizard guards were long dead, the first casualties of the invasion.

Belletrix was already waiting for him in the main banking hall. It had been years since he had checked on a certain object, and since he happened to be in the neighbourhood, now seemed like a most appropriate time.
"Master," the crazed Death Eater greeted, and was given a nod for her efforts. "We shall visit my vault, then?"
"At once," answered Voldemort. Belletrix stepped up to an open wicket. "I will be visiting my vault!" she demanded.
"Of course," the goblin behind the wicket answered with a sneer of his own. "Swishfoot! Show Lestrange and her companion to her vault!"

A lengthy, hair-raising ride on a cart followed, the experience of which even made Voldemort nauseous. 'Stomach calming draught, perhaps,' he thought, withdrawing a small vial from his robes.
"The Lestrange vault," announced Swishfoot, as they exited the cart.
"Open it!" Belletrix ordered. The goblin nodded, placing his hand on the door, and it melted, to reveal a cave-like opening. It seemed to be crammed with coins, trinkets, and artefacts, and somewhat unnerving, a skull which still wore its crown.

A thorough search of the vault rewarded Belletrix with several minutes of the Cruciatus curse.
"Where is it, Belletrix?" Voldemort demanded, "One of my most precious possessions left in your care. Where is it?!"
"My Lord…"
"If I may," said the goblin. Voldemort turned to face the speaker. "Do tell."
"A number of items have been removed from your vault, lady Lestrange, as they contravened Gringotts regulations. An owl was dispatched regarding those confiscations, as was one dispatched to the Auror office."
"AVADA KEDAVRA!!" Belletrix roared, and the goblin was no more. "I have failed you, master," she spoke, her crazed eyes meeting her master's.
"No, my loyal servant, you have not. We could not have foresaw such interference." Yet, the Dark Lord's eyes blazed with a fury of hatred yet unmatched. A terrible thought crossed his mind: did the brat know about his secret? He thought carefully of each of his treasures. They meant everything in keeping him tied to this mortal plane. The boy COULDN'T know! Surely, had they been destroyed, he would have felt it… wouldn't he? The most powerful wizard alive, wasn't he? Nagini… that was an accident, was it not? He had to be sure.

Storming back out of the vault, Belletrix at his heels, they re-boarded the cart, a single stream of thought running though his mind: the lake, the shack, and Hogwarts.

Harry slumped against John, as the room came back into focus. His friends had gathered around, already knowing what was going on.
"Harry?"
"He knows… he knows about the Horcruxes," he ground out, his head still pounding from the visions. "Leaky Cauldron was damaged, Tom's dead… Visited his vault…"
"Harry, you're not making any sense," said Hermione, while Travis passed him a calming draught.
"Thanks." He downed it at once, then let his friends guide him to a table, where he sat down.

Giving himself a minute to collect his thoughts, he then related the contents of the vision. "He's going to the lake first, then Gaunt's shack, then Hogwarts."
"But, mate, we don't have to worry about that-" Ron began.
"We do!" Harry exclaimed, "What happens when he finds out we've destroyed them all?"
"He'll go into hiding," John finished, understanding exactly Harry's point.
"Either way, it's been a truly dark day for Wizarding Britain," said Neville, "So many have died."
"Your words sum it up quite well, Mr. Longbottom." The group looked up to find Albus, along with Amelia.
"Professor! Voldemort knows about the Horcruxes," said Harry, with a rush.
"It was only a matter of time, Harry," Albus answered, "I have to admit I'm surprised it took this long."
"But, Harry, we're still not certain if he absolutely knows," Hermione challenged.
"I'll… I'll organize the DA, Harry," Neville offered.

A few minutes later, the much smaller group was once again in the library, gathered around the conference table.
"Well, this blows holes in our little incident," said Travis, darkly.
"What happened?" questioned Harry, shooting a questioning glance Travis' way.
"A few individuals took issue with our sexual preference," answered Bill, matching Travis' tone, "They will have trouble remembering the past eight hours or so, I should imagine."
"Mr. Weasley, I do hope you are careful when casting magic in a Muggle area," Amelia warned.
"We were very discreet," said Travis, "Jesus, one of them had a gun… had we been Muggles, I really don't wanna think of what would have happened."
"Still, Voldemort's activities are far more stressing. Harry, what did you mean, 'Tom's dead?'?" questioned Bill.
"You know, the barkeep. He… he attacked, and Voldemort just killed him. He just turned and a flash of green… and he was dead. Just like the wizard dressed in Muggle clothing." Harry was still shaking from the memories of the attack. "Diagon Alley's completely destroyed, he didn't leave a building untouched… 'cept maybe Gringotts."
"No, not even he's stupid enough to attack Gringotts, a sure way to turn the goblins against him," said Bill.
"Wait a minute. Why was Lestrange let into her vault? Like, they DID confiscate a bunch of stuff from it, right?" questioned John.
"Yes, that's true. But it's not the responsibility of Gringotts to apprehend wanted criminals. We most certainly notify the Ministry, but that's as far as our responsibility goes, other to destroy something if it is truly a danger."
"And it's a good thing it works that way," said Sirius, "Otherwise I would have been carted off to Azkaban the first time I set foot in the bank." Just then, the flames in the nearby fireplace turned green (a number of fireplaces had been connected to the floo network), and Albus stepped out of them, carrying a sheet of parchment. The look on his face spoke volumes. "I'm afraid the news does not get any better. Death Eaters struck St. Mungo's a few minutes ago, and a larger contingent swarmed the Ministry of Magic. I daresay, English Wizarding society has fallen under Voldemort's control."
"How many deaths?"
"In the case of St. Mungo's, no one. They only seized control of the building. As from what I've gathered, staff are making arrangements for patients. The ministry, so far, at least two dozen casualties."
"Thing is, there's gonna be no one left in England to rule… so like, what's the point?"
"Oh, Voldemort will most definitely not just stand back. He will search high and low for this island, Mr. Connor. Make no mistake," answered Albus.
"Of course, the bastard struck the hospital first," Travis snorted, "He's crippled Wizarding Britain, that's the bottom line."
"The thing is, what are we waiting for?" questioned John, "The longer we wait, the worse it's gonna get, right?"
"Indeed, it may, John," answered Sirius, "Yet, we can't just go back to England and-"
"Why not?" questioned Harry, "We know he's gonna check on the diadem. We could trap him there, finish it once and for all-"
"Harry. You're not ready," said Albus, firmly, "There is something… something you need to know."

Harry looked murderous. "And what, exactly, have you decided to keep from me, THIS TIME, headmaster?!" He could feel his temper boiling to the surface.
"Harry… Voldemort made seven Horcruxes, not six."
"Great, so… we have to find one more of those bloody things."
"Dude… I think… we already have," said John. He knew no good was going to come from this revelation. "Because…"
"Harry, you are the seventh Horcrux," Albus finished.

You could hear a pin drop. The range of expressions which crossed Harry's face summed it up pretty well. He finally blew out a breath. "Of course, it could never be easy, could it?!" Harry slammed his chair back from the table, and stormed out of the room.
"Well, that could've went a little better," said Hermione. There were resigned nods from the others. John made to get up, but Travis shook his head. "Let him be, he'll come back to us when he's ready."

While the remainder of the group continued to discuss this latest revelation, Harry fled through the corridors, not really sure where his feet were taking him. He barely acknowledged others he passed, his head in a cloud. Why did everything always have to be so bloody complicated?! More stressing, was how in the world he could have become one of those blasted things! It was so unfair!

He stopped, realizing only then where his feet had carried him. Thing was, did he really want to intrude on the man who, up until recently, had been a nightmare toward him? Blowing out a breath, he reached out, and knocked.
"Come in," came the answer. Taking another breath, he opened the door, and stepped inside.
"Potter," said Severus, a hint of disdain in his voice. He was seated behind his personal desk, marking essays. The last paper had a large red "T" marked on the top right corner.
"Professor… I… I don't know what to do anymore!" it came out in a rush, as his mind still clouded with the horrible possibility that now hung over his head.
"And do tell, what has gotten you in such a state that you are darkening my personal quarters at this time of night?" Severus drawled, "You do realize it's a half-hour to curfew?" He paused, noting the state of the young man in front of him, then added, "Have you already forgotten our lessons, Potter? Settle your mind before you answer!"

Harry took in a deep breath, and closed his eyes. It only took a few moments, before he finally felt calm enough to carry on. "Professor… I didn't think things could get any worse. Professor Dumbledore just… well…"
"Perhaps if you will let me see," Severus offered. Harry nodded and locked eyes with Severus, saying, "Whenever you're ready."
"Legilimens."

Severus leaned back in his chair, thinking very carefully about how to respond to the memories he had just witnessed. However, the boy standing before him did not wait. "I hoped that… that someday… I would be… 'just Harry'. That's all I ever wanted. To live a normal life, bond with my partner, maybe adopt a child… I don't know and why the bloody hell am I telling you this anyway… you hate me anyway!" The last bit came out in a rush.
"I do not hate you, Potter." It came out before Severus could stop it. Where in Merlin's pants did that come from?!

The answer lay in a pair of startled emerald eyes blazing back at him. Eyes that belonged to his first childhood friend, and unrequited love. Perhaps it was now Severus who needed a calming draught. "Pot-Harry… there are things… you must know. Some of those things, I am not the… it is not my place to tell. Do know this. Your mother and I were very close friends, even before we started school." Severus summoned his pensieve, and drew out a strand of memories. "This time, you have my permission." He gestured to the silvery liquid.
"Thank you sir."

The memories all featured his mother, beginning when Severus first met her and her sister for the first time. From there, it was a stream of memories, all focusing on one point: Severus truly loved Lily.

"You… you swore to protect me?" Harry managed, his face wet with tears. It had taken several minutes for him to regain composure.
"Yes. There are many things I truly regret. I have… many things to answer for. Calming draught?"
"Thank you sir," said Harry, quickly consuming the offered potion.
"There are things you still must know, and perhaps it is time for a certain headmaster to-"
"AAAAAAAAAH!" Harry screamed, as his scar seemed to explode in searing white hot pain. Through Voldemort's eyes, he could see the empty basin. "He… he knows the locket's gone," Harry ground out.
"Harry… does it really matter? Those he had direct control over have been destroyed, have they not?"
"I guess, sir… but… what stops him from running, hiding himself away so we never face each other, direct things from a distance?"
"I strongly doubt that. His hate for you will draw him to you, no matter the risk."
"Well, he is going to Hogwarts… we'll have a chance to finish him there, right?"
"Pot-Harry, now is not the time to set off on some harebrained scheme-"
"I know, sir. That's why we need to meet with the Order, as in yesterday!"

While Sirius and Remus began summoning members of the Order, Harry, Albus, and Severus met in the headmaster's office.
"Harry, you were not told about the possibility of you being a Horcrux, because then was not the time-hear me out, Harry," Albus pleaded, raising his right hand in a pleading gesture, "I have my reasons, reasons which Professor Snape will agree with."
"And they are?" questioned Harry, his voice low and cold.
"If the Dark Lord were to penetrate your mind with that kind of knowledge, how do you think he might react?" Severus drawled.
"Point taken," Harry reluctantly nodded, knowing Severus was right. His mental defences were still not the best, even after decent training sessions with the somewhat less snarky potions master. He sighed in defeat. "How long… have you known, sir?"
"For quite some time, Harry. You do know part of the story surrounding your parents death at the hands of Voldemort," said Albus. Harry nodded. "On that night… when Lily cast her own life between you as a shield, the Killing Curse rebounded on Lord Voldemort, and a fragment of Voldemort's soul was blasted apart from the whole, and latched itself onto the only living soul left in the collapsing building."(2)
"Me?"
"Yes, you, Harry. That part of Voldemort still lives inside you, giving you a connection with his mind."
"So I have to die, then?" Harry's voice was barely above a whisper, and the expression on his face said it all.
"Yes, and Voldemort himself must do it," answered Albus.
"If… if I die, then… will…" he could not finish, finally overwhelmed by the prospect he was now facing.
"Armando, if you would please send for Mr. Connor. It might be wise he know," Albus directed. The portrait of Armando Dippet nodded, and walked out of his frame. Albus came out from behind his desk, and placed a hand on the crying boy's-no, young man's-shoulder, doing his best to provide comfort.

Under a minute later, John practically stormed into the office. "What happened?"
"I've had to deliver some most unsettling news, Mr. Connor. News, which I'm afraid, equally affects you."
"No… shit," Harry managed.
"Harry, what's wrong?" John knelt down beside him, cupping his face in his hands, forcing Harry to look at him. Tear tracks sliced down his cheeks, his emerald eyes glistening with fresh ones.
"I… I have to die," his voice came as barely a whisper.

AUTHOR'S NOTES: Probably one of the darkest chapters I've written for "Fate Twice Defied", yet, one of the more important ones for sure. A number of elements from DH have definitely worked their way into the story, although that has been planned for a while. It's just the method by which those elements are dealt with, which has changed.
(1) Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder… thinking of how a half-handful of the stuff could plunge an entire train car into darkness, I would be frightened to see what a barrel of the stuff would do. Thinking of the movie adaptation of HBP, it was quite a pile of it the Twins had in their shop, right?
(2) Taken from p.550, Deathly Hallows, Canadian soft cover edition. Verbatim text.

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